GOLF DON'T LIE

• Ep. 07 (GDL) Lt. Col. Dan Rooney: Golf, Country, and the Cost of Freedom

  Lt. Col. Dan Rooney—fighter pilot, PGA pro, and founder of Folds of Honor—joins Jeff to talk golf church, bringing the national anthem to the PGA Tour, and how persistence, faith, and the game have shaped his mission to serve military and first responder families.Lt. Col. Dan Rooney is the founder of Folds of Honor, a fighter pilot, and a PGA professional who’s helped award more than $330 million in scholarships to the families of fallen and disabled service members and first responders.In this powerful conversation, Dan shares how golf became his “church,” what it means to serve through the game, and why faith, discipline, and purpose continue to guide his mission.In this episode:The story of American Dunes and how Jack Nicklaus helped create golf’s most patriotic course.How Folds of Honor Fridays brought the national anthem to the PGA Tour.Dan’s thoughts on loss, fatherhood, and staying resilient through purpose.Why “everything good” in his life ties back to the game of golf.Jeff’s crazy idea: walking 36 holes a day for 13 days to raise $100K for Folds of Honor.From fighter jets to fairways, Dan’s story is a reminder that golf isn’t just a game—it’s a mission.🎧 Learn more or become a Wingman: foldsofhonor.orgLinks & MentionsFolds of Honor: foldsofhonor.orgBecome a Wingman ($13/month): foldsofhonor.org/wingmanAmerican Dunes Golf Club: americandunesgolfclub.comThe Patriot Golf Club (OK): patriotgolfclub.comFolds of Honor Friday (PGA Tour initiative) – National anthem + red, white & blue on Fridays across PGA/Korn Ferry/ChampionsAnheuser-Busch / Budweiser x Folds partnership – 15+ years of support, Folds-branded cans and NFL activationsShow Partners1st Phorm — premium nutrition for golfers who play strong and live stronger.18STRONG — programs & community to help you Play More Golf. Live More Life.

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• Ep. 06 (GDL) Ozzie Smith: The "Wizard" on Freedom, Flow, and the Game Beyond Baseball

  Hall of Famer Ozzie “The Wizard” Smith joins Jeff to talk about discovering golf after baseball, what “freedom” and “flow” really mean, and how the lessons from a life in baseball still drive him on the course.Ozzie Smith is a Hall of Fame shortstop, St. Louis icon, and—since 1996—a full-blown golf nut. In this episode, Ozzie shares how he fell for the game after retirement, why his very first ceremonial tee shot at Whitey Herzog’s event went “right down the middle,” and what golf gives him that baseball no longer could: an honest challenge and a place to compete.We dig into the athlete-to-golfer crossover: rhythm, timing, and the true meaning of “release” for a baseball player learning to keep the ball in play (“aim it at the second baseman”). Ozzie explains why nothing replaces repetitions—“it’s not until you’ve hit three, four thousand balls that it starts to make sense”—and how playing “totally free” fueled both his defensive wizardry and his love of golf. He also talks creativity on double plays, learning to fall and move like an acrobat as a kid, and why improvisation kept him healthy for 19 seasons.Beyond the swing, Ozzie opens up about purpose and community. As president of Gateway PGA REACH, he’s helping kids and veterans access the game—and the business of golf—with a vision to build a nine-hole, multi-recreation facility in St. Louis. If you want a masterclass in staying competitive, staying humble, and keeping the joy, this one hits home.Links & Mentions:Ozzie’s charity & event info: ozzysmithgolf.comGateway PGA REACH: pgareachgateway.orgJeff & JB intro topics: 100-Hole Hike for Youth on Course, Jeff’s 36×13 Challenge for Folds of Honor, JB’s speed training with The Stack SystemShow Partners:1st Phorm — premium nutrition for golfers who play strong and live stronger.18STRONG.com — programs & community to help you Play More Golf. Live More Life.

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• Ep. 05 (GDL) Roger Null: The Godfather of Greenskeepers

  Roger Null is a revered golf course superintendent ("Greenskeeper" as Roger still likes to call it) and architect, recognized as a legend in the St. Louis area. With decades of experience, Roger shares invaluable insights into the intricacies of maintaining and designing golf courses, shedding light on the challenges faced by superintendents today. His deep understanding of both the agronomy and architectural aspects of the game provides a unique perspective that resonates with golf enthusiasts and industry professionals alike.During our conversation, we dive into Roger’s rich history in the golf world, exploring his journey from a small-town Iowa kid to becoming a respected figure in golf course management. We discuss the evolution of course design, the impact of technology on maintenance practices, and the importance of preserving the integrity of classic courses. Roger also reflects on the significance of passion and tenacity in his work, emphasizing that love for the game is at the heart of everything he does. Join us as we explore the stories and experiences that have shaped Roger's career in golf, from managing the greens to understanding the art of course architecture. Whether you’re a golfer, a budding superintendent, or just curious about the behind-the-scenes of golf course management, this episode is packed with insights that will resonate with you.Takeaways: Roger Null shares his incredible journey from a young golfer to a revered golf course superintendent. He emphasizes the importance of passion and tenacity in the demanding world of golf maintenance. Through his experiences, Roger discusses the evolution of golf course architecture and agronomy over the decades. The conversation highlights the balance between maintaining traditional course features and meeting modern player demands. Roger reflects on the challenges faced in the transitional climate of St. Louis and how it affects turf management. He shares insights on the unique history of Palmetto Golf Club and its significance in the world of golf.

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• Ep. 04 (GDL): Matt Ginella: Telling the Stories of Life, Golf, and Relationships

  Matt Ginella is a longtime golf journalist, storyteller, and founder of Fire Pit Collective, a media company dedicated to celebrating the game, its people, and its culture. From his days at Golf Digest and Golf Channel to building one of the most authentic voices in modern golf media, Matt has been at the center of how we see and experience the game today.The latest episode of Golf Don't Lie dives deep into the life and career of Matt Ginella, a name synonymous with golf storytelling and travel. We kick things off by reflecting on Matt's journey from his days at the Golf Channel, where he was known as the 'golf trip guy', to the founding of Fire Pit Productions—a venture that has undergone significant transformation and growth. Matt shares insights into the challenges faced during the early days of his company, particularly during the pandemic, and how he adapted to turn those challenges into opportunities. His recent acquisition by Kemper Sports marks a pivotal moment, positioning Fire Pit Productions to create compelling narratives around some of the most iconic golf courses in the country, including the likes of Gamble Sands and Stream Song. The conversation flows seamlessly as we explore the importance of storytelling in golf, the impact of community-driven golf courses, and the unique experiences that make each destination special. We also touch on Matt's personal life, highlighting the balance he strives to maintain between his passion for golf and his family commitments, especially as a father to a young son who is just beginning to discover the game. This episode is packed with rich narratives, engaging anecdotes, and valuable lessons about resilience, creativity, and the ever-evolving relationship between golf and personal growth.Takeaways: The evolution of Matt Ginella's career from Golf Channel to Fire Pit Productions illustrates the importance of adaptability in the fast-paced world of media and storytelling. The podcast emphasizes the community aspect of golf, highlighting how places like Goat Hill Park thrive on inclusivity and the joy of playing together. Matt shared insights on how golf inherently teaches humility, showing that even the best players can face challenges and reminding us to remain grounded in our self-perception. Youth on Course is a powerful program that makes golf accessible to underprivileged kids, showcasing the impact of affordability and community support in expanding the sport's reach.

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• Ep. 03 (GDL): Sam Goulden: Elevating The Golf Bag Experience Through Community andEnvironmental Innovation

  Sam Goulden is the founder of MNML Golf, a brand revolutionizing the golf bag industry with a focus on sustainability and community-building. In our conversation, we dive deep into his journey from teaching golf to launching a brand that emphasizes quality and environmental consciousness. Sam shares how his passion for the game and a desire to challenge the norm in golf equipment led to the creation of bags that not only look good but also last longer and reduce waste.Throughout the episode, we explore key themes like the importance of craftsmanship in golf gear, the shift towards inclusivity in the sport, and how golf can foster a sense of community among players. Sam discusses his unique approach to bag design, including innovative features like magnetic closures and a focus on durable materials, which set Minimal apart in a crowded market. His insights into the evolving culture of golf highlight the blend of tradition and modernity that appeals to a new generation of golfers.Join us as we unpack what it means to grow the game authentically and how Sam's commitment to quality and sustainability aligns with the greater goal of making golf accessible and enjoyable for everyone.Sam Goulden: Building Community Through Golf and InnovationTakeaways: Staying hydrated is key during long rounds to maintain energy and focus. The importance of a solid pre-shot routine to enhance performance and achieve flow state. Competitive golf requires mental preparedness and the right fuel to perform well under pressure. Maintaining golf bags sustainably can reduce environmental impact and promote responsible consumerism. Customization and personal touches on golf gear can create meaningful connections within the golfing community. Building a supportive golf community helps grow the game and enriches the experience for players of all levels.

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