Next On The Tee With Chris Mascaro, Golf Podcast

In Part 2 of Episode 60, I close out 2024 and Season 11 with two of my favorite people, John Inman and Matthew Laurance. John is always a blast to talk to, and his stories from his playing days on Tour to his time as the Head Men’s Golf Coach at the University of North Carolina are nothing short of fantastic. We dive into the impact of the changes coming to NIL deals plus roster changes in college sports. Then we get into, all the PGA Tour’s newly approved adjustments to field sizes and the number of available Tour cards starting in 2026. I also get John's thoughts on his brother Joe becoming an Advisor to the PGA Tour Policy Board. Several of Joe’s peers have told me he’d make a great Tour Commissioner, and while he once dismissed the idea as more hassle than it’s worth, perhaps he’s had a change of heart—I sure hope so. You can follow John on X/Twitter @audubonjohn62 To wrap up this season, I’ll be joined by my good friend Matthew Laurance for another of our always lively conversations. We touch on the sa

In this special season-ending episode of Next on the Tee, I'm joined by legendary sports documentary and movie Producer Ross Greenburg. With over 33 years at HBO Sports and countless award-winning documentaries to his name, Ross reflects on his incredible career, his passion for storytelling, and some of the most memorable sports moments in history. We discuss: The state of professional boxing, from its golden days to the spectacle of modern matches like Mike Tyson vs. Jake Paul.Behind-the-scenes insights from Miracle, the iconic film about the 1980 U.S. Olympic hockey team, and Herb Brooks' genius for building a true team.The raw authenticity of Ross's projects like When It Was A Game and Nine Innings from Ground Zero, which capture the heart of baseball and a nation. Ross also shares his thoughts on the transformation of professional sports, the importance of preserving stories for future generations, and what drives him to keep uncovering the narratives behind the games we love. You'll also get a hint a

In Part 2 of episode 59, I’m joined by two of the nicest people on the planet Jim Gallagher Jr. and Scott Hamilton. Jim Gallagher Jr., shares his thoughts on all the recent chaos in the professional golf world. Jim, a member of three state Hall of Fames – Indiana, Tennessee, and Mississippi – reflects on his incredible career and reveals the secret to finding joy in the game. Later, I round out the episode with a return visit from the legendary 1984 Olympic gold medalist Scott Hamilton. Scott hinted in our last conversation that he has some amazing golf stories, including playing alongside big-name celebrities – and he absolutely delivered! Known for his positivity and warmth, Scott shares these captivating stories and reminds us why he might just be the nicest person on the planet. You won’t want to miss this engaging and uplifting episode!

In this episode, I’ve got four fascinating guests lined up for you. Part 1 kicks off with our Resident Director of Instruction, Tom Patri. TP and I dive into the mass exodus happening among top leaders across all the tours. Plus, we’ll discuss the recent announcement that PGA Tour Enterprises is seeking a CEO to work alongside Jay Monahan – which I’m hoping is code for replacing him. We’ll also touch on the outgoing CEO of the R&A, Martin Slumbers, and his parting warning for professional golf. All that and more with TP! Next, we’re joined by the "Confident Doctor," Dr. Bob Winters, for our monthly visit. Doc will share insights about an exciting new Tour he’s joined as a Board member, designed to give talented young women a pathway to the LPGA. We’ll also explore the double-edged sword that is golf – how it feels magical when everything is going right but challenging when our minds and bodies aren’t in sync. Dr. Bob will join the conversation about 30 minutes in. Tune in for these great discussions, a

In Part 2 of Season 11, Episode 58, I’m thrilled to introduce two first-time guests who bring unique perspectives and expertise to the show. First, I’m joined by Mike Malizia, a Golf Magazine Top 100 Instructor based at The Club at Admiral’s Cove in Jupiter, Florida. Known for being a haven for sports enthusiasts, Admiral’s Cove is an incredible facility—possibly one of the finest I’ve ever seen online. Mike talks about what makes the club so special and we dive into his expertise as an instructor. He shares invaluable tips on hitting straighter shots, squaring the clubface at the moment of impact, and eliminating those frustrating chunks and thin shots with our wedges. Later in the show, I chat with Jonathan Sessa, an Army Veteran and Founder of the Warrior Golf Academy. Jonathan’s Academy is doing amazing work helping Veterans—especially those wounded in service—rediscover or learn the game of golf. Beyond that, the Academy offers a Caddie training program to help Vets find employment in golf and teaches

In Part 1 of this week's show, I’m excited to welcome two incredible guests who bring their unique perspectives and expertise to the game of golf. First, Im joined by Steve Shingledecker, Head Coach of the Robert Morris Men’s Golf Team. This marks the third time I've had the privilege of having Steve on the show. He’s doing an outstanding job building a strong program for the only Division 1 men’s golf team in the Pittsburgh area. (Yes, surprisingly, Pitt doesn’t have one!) Steve and I will discuss his young and promising team, which features standout player Chuck Tragesser, a name you might see on the PGA Tour in the future, along with a talented group of freshmen. We’ll also dive into the implications of the recent $2.78 billion settlement in the House vs. NCAA case and what it means for college athletics, both for roster spots and the player payment challenges it presents. Later, I’m joined by Tom Wildenhaus, one of the most celebrated figures in the game. A former National PGA Professional of the Year a

In Part 2 of this week’s show, we’re diving into the holiday season with some fantastic gift ideas for the golfer who seems to have it all. First, I’m joined by Ben Helmrath, VP of Merchandising for Hard Goods at the PGA Tour SuperStore. Ben shares insights into the booming in-home golf simulator market and their exciting partnership with Full Swing. We’ll also discuss the PGA Tour SuperStore’s role as the official retailer for the much-anticipated TGL League, spearheaded by Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy, set to launch in January. Plus, Ben highlights their heartwarming initiative to "Give the Gift of Golf" to our military heroes. Later, Gary DiSalvo, CEO of Popticals, returns to the show. As half of the dynamic duo behind what I consider the best sunglasses on the market, Gary talks about the innovative design of Popticals sunglasses. These lightweight, glare-reducing glasses not only help golfers read greens better but also prevent eye fatigue throughout the round. If you’re looking for the perfect gift t

This week on the show, I’m excited to welcome back my “long lost cousin” John Mascari. John shares his thoughts on the proposed changes to the PGA Tour for 2026, which include reducing field sizes, the number of Tour cards available, and the number of Monday qualifiers, among other changes. As someone on the Board of Directors for the New Jersey PGA Section and the Director of Golf at Alpine Country Club, John has a unique perspective on how these changes could impact the game. Speaking of Alpine, there’s a rumor that a sequel to a certain movie featuring a hockey player-turned-professional golfer was recently filmed there, and John might give us a hint about that. We’ll also chat about the growing excitement for next year’s Ryder Cup. Plus, as a big Yankees fan, John’s going to have to endure a little ribbing from me—a Red Sox fan—about their recent loss in the World Series. John leads off this week's show. Follow John on Instram and X @johnmascaripga Following John, we have the pleasure of hearing from 198

In Part 2 of Episode 56, I’m thrilled to welcome Jenn Whaley, who’s making her Next on the Tee debut. If her last name sounds familiar, it should—she’s the daughter of Suzy Whaley, former President of the PGA of America and now President of Golf Nation. Suzy has been a wonderful friend of the show, and she’s raised an equally wonderful daughter in Jenn. Jenn’s passion for the game and her work with Top Golf and Callaway Brands comes shining through the energy in her voice. We chat about what it was like growing up in a true golf family and the golf lessons that happened at the dinner table. Jenn also shares highlights from her remarkable college golf career at Quinnipiac in Connecticut, along with her current role leading a program aimed at getting more beginners into the game and helping them stay engaged with it. Check out how she and the Top Golf are doing online at www.shop.topgolf.com. We’ll round Part 2 with former Michigan State, Atlanta Falcons, and Pittsburgh Steelers tight end Mitch Lyons. Mitch he

In Part 1 of this week’s episode, we’re kicking things off with our resident Director of Instruction, Tom Patri, who’s joining us for the 107th time and on the 9th anniversary of the first time he joined the show. Tom and I dive into the proposed changes for the 2025 PGA Tour season, which unfortunately don’t seem focused on growing the game at the professional level. We discuss the trickle-down effect these changes could have on top instructors like Tom and on others around the game who are dedicated to helping aspirational players. These changes risk shrinking the game at the top, giving a larger piece of the pie to fewer players. As usual, it seems to come down to more money for fewer people. You’ll hear Tom’s thoughts on this and much more. Be sure to check out his website at www.tompatri.com and give him a follow on Instragram @tompatrigolf. Here is a link to his YouTube channel where you can get over 360 free video playing lessons, https://www.youtube.com/@TomPatriGolf After Tom, we’ll have our monthly

In this special bonus edition of the show I'm joined by former Houston Oilers Pro Bowl QB Dante Anthony Pastorini. Dan Pastorini is not only a multi-time Hall of Fame athlete but also a Hall of Fame human being. Despite what you might see on commercials, he truly is one of the most interesting men on the planet—which you can read more about in his book, Taking Flak: My Life in the Fast Lane. In this segment, Dan reflects on his journey with golf, sharing how he developed a passion for the game and even helped his Houston Oilers teammates get invited to the Houston Open, breaking a tradition where only Cowboys players were previously included. He recalls the thrill of teaming up with fellow Houston Sports Hall of Famer Jackie Burke to win the Pro-Am and names the players who would make up his most fun foursome. Dan also highlights his annual Celebrity Golf Invitational, which raises funds for the inspiring organization Be An Angel (www.beanangel.org). Shifting to football, he reminisces about the fierce yet

In Part 2 of Season 11, Episode 54, I welcome back good friend Matthew Laurance for another fun conversation. No matter how many times we get together, it never seems quite enough. This time, Matthew shares stories from his experience at a Major League Fantasy Camp with a team that's an unexpected choice for a lifelong Yankees fan! We also celebrate the anniversary of some of Matthew's most memorable acting roles, including his appearances on Beverly Hills 90210 and Eddie & the Cruisers. Rounding out the episode, I sit down with PGA Professional Keith Stewart, founder of the golf betting handicapping site Read The Line. Combining his deep knowledge of the game with firsthand experience at tournament sites each week, Keith has become remarkably adept at picking winners, with over 30 outright wins across various tours. He shares his strategies and insights into the art of golf handicapping.

In Part 1 of Season 11, Episode 54 I'm joined by the one and only Tom Patri plus top Sports Psychologist and the grandson of Bobby Jones, Dr. Bob Jones IV. Tom Patri and I dive into the controversy surrounding the high cost of Ryder Cup tickets. With the PGA of America positioning the event as a “Super Bowl-level” spectacle, fans and potential volunteers are feeling the impact of sky-high prices. Tom shares his thoughts on whether the PGA's pricing strategy is justified, especially given the New York City setting where high prices are often the norm. Drawing a comparison to Billy Joel’s famous Millennium Concert at Madison Square Garden—where the singer himself remarked on the outrageous ticket prices—they may be right, we may be crazy... Following Tom, I'm joined by Dr. Bob Jones IV, the grandson of legendary golfer Bobby Jones and an esteemed sports psychologist. Doc brings a unique blend of spirituality and warmth that’s rare in the sports world. In a world increasingly dominated by social media negativi

In Part 2 of Season 11, Episode 53, LPGA Top 50 Instructor Debbie O’Connell and Montauk Downs Golf Course Director of Instruction Keith Jarvis join me. Debbie has a fantastic new mental game program starting on October 21st, called "Conquering Your Golf Mind." If you want to quickly improve your mental approach, have more fun on the course, and lower your handicap, this is the course for you. To sign up, you can text the word “YES” to 727-339-0106 and use the coupon code “Conquer50” to get access to the five-day program for the unheard of price of $47. You can join in to the live sessions or each day is recorded so you can watch at your convenience. This week Debbie and I will discuss what’s included in the program, as well as her impressive work with a student, helping them lower their handicap from 22.3 to 13.9 in a short period of time. I also get her thoughts on the Solheim Cup and whether adding U.S. and International women to the Presidents Cup could bring some excitement to the event, which could use

In Part 1 of Episode 53, I'm joined by Super Agent Leigh Steinberg and Buffalo Dunes Director of Instruction Jason Hase. I’m excited to be joined by one of the most prominent figures in the history of sports and a member of our Thursday Night Tailgate Guest Hall of Fame, Leigh Steinberg. Leigh has been a regular guest for over 11 years, with his first appearance dating back to August 1, 2013. We’ll be diving into the massive surge in money within the world of sports, from skyrocketing player contracts to the impact of NIL deals in college athletics. We’ll also discuss something that was once unimaginable: sports leagues and teams being sponsored by gambling sites, as well as Las Vegas becoming home to multiple major sports franchises. Leigh is a great friend, and I’m thrilled to have him on the show again. Following Leigh, I’ll be joined by Jason Hase, Director of Instruction at Buffalo Dunes in Garden City, Kansas. Buffalo Dunes was recently recognized as the 8th best municipal course in the country by Gol

In Part 2 of Season 11, Episode 52 I'm joined by one of the most trusted and revered voices in Pittsburgh sports, Paul Alexander, and one of the all-time great Instructors Jim McLean. Paul Alexander has been broadcasting in Pittsburgh for over 30 years. You've heard him on KDKA-TV and 93.7 The Fan, covering the Steelers, Penguins, and Pirates. His long tenure and deep connection with the local sports community have made him a respected and well-known voice in Pittsburgh. You can listen to his golf show Going Low on Saturday mornings on 93.7 The Fan. In this segment, Paul shares his insights on the Steelers and Pirates, reflects on his recent rounds at Olde Stonewall and Wanango Country Club, and discusses why Pittsburgh is an underrated gem when it comes to golf. Jim McLean, one of the most respected instructors in golf, is in several Hall of Fames and has led his golf schools to certify over 400 teachers, many of whom are now top instructors across the country. He has quickly become one of my favorite gues

In Part 1 of Season 11, Episode 52, I’m joined by our Resident Director of Instruction, Tom Patri, and 1983 PGA Champion and two-time Players Champion, Hal Sutton. As Tom prepared for the arrival of Hurricane Milton in Naples, Florida, he shared his insights on the Presidents Cup, including reports of players swearing at Tom Kim, and highlighted the impressive performances of golfers over 60 who are still proving they can compete at a high level. Hal Sutton gives us an update on his latest course design, the Darmor Club, which recently opened to rave reviews and is poised to become one of the top courses in the U.S. Hal recounts a special call from Sahith Theegala, who sought to play Darmor as part of his Presidents Cup preparation. We also take a trip down memory lane to Hal’s very first lesson with the legendary Harvey Penick.

In Part 2 of Episode 51, I’m joined by two of Golf Tips Magazine’s Top 25 Instructors, Jon Decker and Tom Stickney, for long-overdue conversations packed with invaluable insights. Jon Decker, the 2015 Southern Ohio Teacher of the Year and Director of Instruction at the Medallion Club, shares stories from his time with legendary mentor Phil Rogers, a memorable encounter involving Rogers and Gary Player, and strategies for overcoming the mental challenges that can sabotage your game. He also gives us a sneak peek into his new book, Fairways to Heaven...One Shot at a Time. Tom Stickney, a Top 100 Teacher by Golf Magazine and a Top 50 International Instructor, brings his expertise to the table as we explore the differences between old-school and new-school teaching methods, the debate between speed training and letting the club do the work, and tips for golfers over 50 looking to increase their driving distance. Tom also offers his take on how to fix the over-the-top swing and shares his perspective on the curr

In Part 1 of Season 11, Episode 51, I'm joined by Steelers Legend Rocky Bleier and The Confidence Doctor, Dr. Bob Winters. Rocky is one of the greatest storytellers in sports and has been a frequent and favorite guest over the years. He first joined me way back in 2011, and this marks the 13th time I've had the honor of chatting with him. We'll dive into the Steelers' season, revisit his early days in Pittsburgh, and hear some fantastic stories about playing alongside Terry Bradshaw. Rocky also shares his thoughts on the toughest moments he’s had on the football field, my favorite Chuck Noll story, and his experiences playing in some of his favorite Pro-Ams. Following Rocky, we get our monthly visit from The Confidence Doctor, Dr. Bob Winters. This time, Doc talks about how to create a "Personal Zone of Control" and the importance of managing our expectations rather than trying to meet the expectations of others and creating a personal playing space. It’s a must-listen for anyone looking to improve their me

In Part 2 of Episode 50, I’m joined by two-time Tennessee PGA Teacher of the Year, Virgil Herring, and two-time PGA Tour winner, Rick Fehr. Virgil Herring is a graduate of Mississippi State’s Professional Golf Management program and has earned the title of Middle Tennessee Section PGA Teacher of the Year five times, as well as Tennessee Teacher of the Year twice. He has worked with several Tour players, including Brandt Snedeker. In our conversation, Virgil shares stories about his time working with Snedeker, and we discuss Brandt's recent accolades—being named the recipient of the 2024 Payne Stewart Award and serving as an Assistant Captain at both this year’s Presidents Cup and next year’s Ryder Cup. Virgil also offers valuable advice on how to get your swing on the correct plane and how to reach a Flow State on the mental side of the game. Rick Fehr, who helped BYU win the national championship in 1981, was the low amateur at both the 1984 Masters and U.S. Open. After winning twice on the PGA Tour, Rick