2025 Masters Pick’em Giveaway
Submit your guess for a chance to win a dozen Titleist Pro V1s of your choice.
Episodes
Episode 42
In this episode of Golf and Politics, we welcome longtime friend of the show…
Managing Director of Lang Financial, Casey Lang for a fun, wide-ranging conversation that blends personal stories, political debate, golf talk, and real financial insights. From his early days as a college golfer with host Matt Parker, to building a successful wealth management firm in the Ohio Valley, Casey opens up about what it takes to chase your passion, build a business from scratch, and maintain friendships along the way.
Episode 41
In this special Golf and Politics episode, we hit the fairways of Ernie Fox Okemah Municipal Golf Course…
with Chris Benge—former Oklahoma Speaker of the House, Secretary of State, and VP at OSU Institute of Technology—to discuss politics, golf, and the future of Oklahoma. As we play 9 holes, 9 questions, Speaker Benge shares his journey from blue-collar Tulsa to leading Oklahoma’s legislature, the state’s political transformation, and the challenges of public golf in small-town America. We also discuss his love for the game, his biggest political accomplishments, and what Donald Trump’s involvement in golf means for the sport’s future.
Episode 40
In this episode of Golf and Politics, we sit down with Brad Cheney, a veteran political strategist…
former Capitol Hill chief of staff, and top Democratic lobbyist. Brad takes us inside the world of Washington politics, reflecting on his experiences working with Hillary Clinton, Capitol Hill campaigns, and major policy battles. He also shares insights on the role of lobbyists, the state of modern political campaigns, and what it really takes to succeed in DC. But it’s not all politics—we also dive into golf, reliving wild golf trips, hole-in-one stories, and the best courses for political networking.
Episode 39
In this heartwarming episode of Golf and Politics, we visit Okemah, Oklahoma, to sit down with Earnie Fox…
a 90-year-old legend who has volunteered nearly every day for 30 years to keep the only golf course in Okfuskee County alive and thriving.
Earnie shares the incredible story of how Okemah Golf Course was born, the challenges of maintaining a rural golf course on a shoestring budget, and how the community came together to rename it in his honor — now proudly called the Earnie Fox Okemah Golf Course.
Episode 38
In this episode of Golf and Politics, we sit down with Tracy Phillips, the golf pro who made history by…
qualifying for the 2024 PGA Championship at Valhalla at the age of 61. Tracy shares his unbelievable career journey, from being one of the top junior golfers in the country to quitting golf for 20 years due to the driver yips—only to come back and qualify for a major championship decades later.
Episode 37
In this special edition of Golf and Politics, Democratic co-host Rob Ellsworth takes center stage…
to air his grievances about the early days of Donald Trump’s return to the White House. From policy decisions to political rhetoric, Rob breaks down what frustrates him most about Trump 2.0—while co-host Matt pushes back in a lively debate.
Episode 36
In this jam-packed episode of Golf and Politics, we discuss the latest news in professional golf…
—the PGA Tour and LIV Golf are inching closer to a merger, with Donald Trump playing a key role. What does this mean for the future of the sport? Will we finally see the best players competing together again? And how does this shake up the landscape of golf?
Episode 35
In this episode of Golf and Politics, we sit down with Nick Sidorakis…
the legendary former General Manager and COO of Southern Hills Country Club in Tulsa, Oklahoma. With nearly three decades of experience at one of the most prestigious clubs in the country, Nick shares his incredible journey, insights into hosting major championships, and his vision for the future of golf.
Episode 34
In this special on-course episode of Golf and Politics, we hit the back nine at…
Meadowbrook Country Club with Pastor Jeremy Fair of Christ Presbyterian Church in Tulsa. From the intersection of faith and politics to Oklahoma’s controversial policies on religion in schools, this episode dives into timely and thought-provoking topics—all while enjoying a round of golf.
Episode 33
In this exciting episode of Golf and Politics, we welcome renowned golf writer and course architecture expert…
Geoff Shackelford to the podcast! From his insights into Augusta National’s evolution to the impact of professional golf on the game’s future, Geoff shares his unfiltered thoughts on the intersection of golf, politics, and culture.
Episode 32
In this first episode recorded since the new year we deep dive into our golf and political goals…
including some big ambitions on and off the golf course. From improving our handicaps to building connections on the course, this episode is all about setting sights high and enjoying the journey.
Episode 31
In this special on-course episode of Golf and Politics, we’re teeing it up with JP Roller…
a standout collegiate golfer at Kansas State, for nine holes and nine thought-provoking questions! Filmed at the beautiful Meadowbrook Country Club in Tulsa, Oklahoma, this round is filled with candid conversation, laughs, and insight into the life of a Division I golfer.
Episode 30
In the first episode of 2025, we continue Rob Ellsworth’s incredible Year of Yes journey…
recapping the second half of his unforgettable year. From legendary courses to career milestones like completing the U.S. Top 100 courses this episode is packed with stories that will inspire golf lovers and life enthusiasts alike.
Episode 29
Welcome to another exciting episode of Golf and Politics! In this special year-end edition…
we take a deep dive into Rob Ellsworth’s extraordinary 2024 journey. Embracing a “Year of Yes,” Rob’s year was packed with over 200 rounds of golf, visits to iconic courses, and unforgettable experiences.
Episode 28
Welcome back to Golf and Politics! In this episode, we dive deep into golf, mindset, and a bit of politics.
Fresh off a lesson and putter fitting with Phillip Walker at Back Nine Golf, we reflect on the experience, key takeaways, and how lessons on the course translate to life beyond the game.
Episode 27
In Episode 27 of Golf and Politics, host Matt Parker and producer Jordan McMillan record on the road…
to Bentonville, Arkansas, where Matt heads for a lesson with renowned golf coach Philip Walker at Back Nine Golf. The episode chronicles Matt’s journey of improving his game, from his self-taught days to working with instructors like Maggie Roller and Tracy Phillips. He shares the challenges of refining his swing, including overcoming bad habits, mastering consistency, and tailoring his approach to fit his body type. Along the way, Matt recounts recent rounds at Pinehurst and discusses the highs (a career-low 66) and lows (an 89 the next day) that highlight the ups and downs of golf improvement. The episode also dives into golf education, including the value of private lessons, the benefits and drawbacks of social media golf tips, and advice for beginners entering the sport. Packed with insights and practical tips, this episode captures the joys, frustrations, and growth that come with the love of the game.
Episode 26
In this special Thanksgiving episode of Golf and Politics, our new producer…
Jordan McMillan, flips the script by interviewing hosts Matt Parker and Rob Elsworth for a Shotgun 9. Recorded on Black Friday, the conversation weaves through holiday traditions, favorite Thanksgiving dishes, and memorable moments on the golf course. They discuss the value of family, the friendships built through golf, and how the sport ties into their personal and professional lives. From debates over underrated Thanksgiving side dishes to reflections on their most iconic NFL Thanksgiving memories, the hosts share a blend of humor and heartfelt gratitude. Golf takes center stage as they discuss their most and least thankful moments on the course this year, including aspirations for improving their game in the offseason. The episode wraps with the hosts envisioning their dream Thanksgiving dinner guests, blending golf legends, celebrities, and political figures for the ultimate holiday table.
Episode 25
In this episode of Golf and Politics, hosts Matt Parker and Rob Elsworth are joined by…
course rater and golf architecture enthusiast Jake Marvin to discuss the recently released Golf Magazine Top 100 list. The trio dives into what it takes for a course to make the cut, exploring design elements, architectural trends, and the shifting preferences in the golf world. They highlight surprising entries like The Lido and Old Barnwell, the dominance of classic designs by Alister MacKenzie and Donald Ross, and the increasing popularity of minimalist, player-friendly layouts. The discussion covers the impact of course age, architectural originality, and how subjective factors like exclusivity and course difficulty influence rankings. They also tackle controversial omissions, such as Oak Tree National, and consider whether new courses should be ranked before standing the test of time. Along the way, the group reflects on the cultural and regional diversity of golf courses in the U.S. and abroad, debating the future of architecture in the sport and the role of these rankings in shaping public perception.
Episode 24
In this episode of Golf and Politics, host Matt Parker chats with Heber Eastman…
a golf industry innovator, about his groundbreaking idea to make golf more accessible by designing courses that can be played in three-hole increments. Eastman explains how this format could accommodate players with limited time, encourage new golfers to join the sport, and even retrofit existing courses for more flexibility. The conversation delves into the challenges of slow play, the importance of pace management, and how technology like booking apps and GPS systems can improve the golfing experience. Eastman also highlights the beauty of public golf in Utah, the role of creative course design, and how shorter formats can compete with non-traditional experiences like TopGolf and simulators. The discussion underscores how innovative approaches can help modernize the game, expand its reach, and preserve the community spirit that makes golf so unique.
Episode 23
In this episode of Golf and Politics, hosts Matt Parker and Rob Elsworth are joined by special guest Brad Cheney…
a veteran Democratic lobbyist, to dissect the aftermath of the 2024 election. The discussion dives into Donald Trump’s unexpected victory, his appeal to working-class voters, and the shifting demographics that tipped the election in his favor. They analyze Kamala Harris’ challenges as a candidate, the influence of voter emotions over policy, and the impact of her campaign strategy. The trio explores the role of authenticity, the importance of connecting with voters, and why Democrats struggled to present a compelling alternative to Donald Trump.
Episode 22
In this episode of Golf and Politics, Matt and Rob talk about the long-anticipated…
and talked about Majority Cup, an annual charity golf tournament organized by the Majority Group at the Robert Trent Jones Golf Club. They discuss the tournament’s humble beginnings 13 years ago and its growth into an event that raised $80,000 this year for Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation, benefiting families dealing with pediatric cancer. Matt and Rob share insights on the tournament’s purpose beyond competition, including fostering networking, building friendships, and creating lasting business relationships. They also touch on the detailed planning that makes the event memorable and tease a future Ryder Cup-style event to unite individuals from different political backgrounds for a great cause.
Episode 21
Matt provides a comprehensive recap of the 2024 election, highlighting Donald Trump’s unexpected victory…
and the implications for the Republican Party. Matt explores the changing landscape of voter demographics, including shifts among younger voters and minority groups, and the challenges ahead for both parties in the political arena. He discusses the role of authenticity in Trump’s appeal, the importance of governing effectively, and the necessity of healing political divides in the country.
Episode 20
In this episode of Golf & Politics, host Matt Parker welcomes back…
former Oklahoma Democratic State Representative Jason Dunnington to discuss predictions for the high-stakes 2024 election. They delve into the highs and lows of each campaign, from the race for the White House to key battlegrounds in the U.S. Senate and House, examining strategies from both the Harris and Trump camps. With insights on polarized issues like women’s rights and transgender policies, Matt and Jason explore how these topics shape voter sentiment and the challenges of bipartisanship. They also analyze Trump’s shift on issues such as abortion and the emotional tactics used across campaigns to drive voter engagement.
Episode 19 Pt2
Hosts Matt Parker and Rob Elsworth recap their unforgettable time at Ballybunion…
one of Ireland’s most renowned golf courses. They explore the evolution of Ballybunion from its early days as a modest nine-hole course to its transformation into a world-class championship venue, delving into the redesign of the Cashen course by Tom Watson and its challenges amid iconic scenery. The episode is rich with stories about camaraderie, Irish golf culture, and memorable moments that define a true golf trip. Matt and Rob reflect on the unique experience of playing on storied Irish links, the community spirit found on these courses, and how golf fosters friendships that go beyond the game.
Episode 19 PT1
Matt and Rob discuss their unforgettable golf trip to Ireland…
sharing insights on Epic Irish golf, jaw-dropping views, and wild weather. They dive into what sets Irish golf apart, covering iconic courses like Ballybunion, St. Patrick’s, and County Sligo, along with hidden gems and rugged nine-hole treasures. Matt and Rob discuss how Ireland’s communal golf culture contrasts with the exclusivity of American clubs, the challenges posed by unpredictable weather, and the unique joy of pub nights and van rides with friends. If you’re considering a golf trip to Ireland, tune in for tips on navigating links courses and building camaraderie on and off the fairway.
Episode 18
In this episode of Golf and Politics, host Matt Parker takes to the LaFortune Golf Course…
with Tulsa County Commissioner Stan Sallee. As they navigate nine holes, they explore the critical role county-run golf courses like LaFortune and South Lakes play in boosting the local economy, fostering community engagement, and providing affordable recreational opportunities. Stan shares fascinating insights into the history of these courses, explaining how early investments, including charitable donations and taxpayer initiatives, have helped maintain top-tier public facilities that serve thousands of golfers annually. The conversation highlights the immense economic impact of golf on Tulsa County, with over 100,000 rounds played each year. Stan discusses how the COVID-19 pandemic reignited public interest in golf, turning once-struggling courses into revenue generators. He also dives into the behind-the-scenes management challenges, from capital improvements like irrigation systems to maintaining a quality experience for players amidst heavy use.
Episode 17
In this episode of Golf and Politics, hosts Matt and Rob talk with Marc Bender…
a managing partner of 5 international businesses in the golf industry, discussing his passion for golf, the business of golf travel, and the importance of networking through the sport. They explore the cultural differences in golf access between the U.S. and other countries, the elements that make a great golf course, and the significance of college golf experiences. The conversation highlights the camaraderie and enjoyment that golf brings, regardless of skill level. In this engaging conversation, Rob, Matt, and Marc delve into the innovative concept of Upper Deck Golf, exploring its unique model and community impact. They transition into a discussion about the intersection of golf and politics, sharing personal insights and experiences. The dialogue culminates in light-hearted banter about dream golf foursomes, favorite courses, and the upcoming MG Cup, emphasizing the camaraderie and networking opportunities within the golf community.
Episode 16
In our first ever on-course episode of Golf and Politics, host Matt Parker takes us to…
the Meadowbrook Country Club, where he and guest Jefferson Thomas, founder of the Synapse Group, delve into an engaging mix of golf, political strategy, and personal experiences. As they play nine holes, each hole presents a new question that leads to discussions ranging from the allure of golf to Jefferson’s insights on political canvassing. Jefferson delves into his work with Synapse, a political staffing firm specializing in door-to-door canvassing for center-right causes. He shares how traditional canvassing remains a powerful tool, even in the digital era. Jefferson reveals his dream golf foursome and bucket-list courses, and Matt and Jefferson wrap up with a conversation on the SEC in college football.
Episode 15
Matt and Rob discuss the intersection of golf and politics focusing on the contentious…
issue of transgender athletes in women’s sports. They discuss the relevancy of transgender policy as a significant political contention in local and national campaigns. They explore various perspectives on fairness, empathy, and the role of politics in shaping public opinion. The conversation delves into personal stories, the impact of faith on political views, and the importance of understanding history in the context of current debates. Ultimately, they emphasize the need for respectful dialogue and the value of differing opinions in fostering a more inclusive society.
Episode 14
Hosts, Matt Parker and Rob Elsworth discuss their experience at Oak Tree National Golf Course…
with former democratic Oklahoma State Representative Jason Dunnington and current republican Oklahoma State Representative Anthony Moore. They delve into political predictions regarding the upcoming elections analyzing the vice presidential picks and the state of the presidential race with former President Donald Trump and current Vice President Kamala Harris. The conversation shifts to the importance of bipartisan cooperation and the impact of primary systems on political representation. The episode concludes with encouragement for aspiring politicians and highlights the Rodel program’s role in fostering collaboration among elected officials.
Episode 13
Matt Parker and Rob Elsworth discuss the recent Solheim Cup held at the Robert Trent Jones Golf Club.
They delve into the significance of the event, the preparations involved in hosting such a prestigious tournament, and the historical context of RTJ as a venue for major golf events. The conversation also touches on logistical challenges faced during the event, the presence of notable figures like former President Obama and highlights key performances from players like Nelly Korda and Charley Hull. They conclude with thoughts on the future of women’s golf and the potential for more inclusive golf events.
Episode 12
Narrative: US political ad spending is expected to reach $12 billion in the 2024 election cycle…
triple the amount spent in 2016. The increase in spending is attributed to the rise of outside groups and the ability to raise small-dollar donations. However, the effectiveness of ad spending is limited, as media consumption has become more fragmented, with fewer people watching broadcast television. The challenge for political campaigns is to reach voters through various platforms and channels. Polling has also changed, with the decline of landline telephones, leading to the need for more fluid and data-driven decision-making. Both parties have their strengths and weaknesses in media buying, with Democrats having a financial advantage and more consolidated ad buying, while Republicans are becoming more back-heavy in their approach. Kamala Harris’s arrival on the Democratic ticket opened up a subset of voters that were previously unavailable to Joe Biden. The key states for the Democrats are Michigan, Wisconsin, and Pennsylvania, and if Harris can win those states, she won’t need other swing states like Georgia or Arizona. The advertising strategy for the upcoming election will focus on persuading voters, motivating the base, and turning out the vote. The viewing habits of consumers have shifted, with college football becoming a cultural phenomenon and golf struggling to keep up. The future of golf content on platforms like YouTube is uncertain, but it has the potential to attract more viewers and ad dollars. The conversation also touches on favorite golf courses, dream foursomes, and the best golfing politicians.
Episode 11 PT2
Narrative: In this special part 2-episode, former Congressman Heath Shuler joins…
the Golf and Politics podcast to discuss his incredible journey from professional football player to member of Congress and beyond. Heath Shuler shares insights on the NFL draft process, the importance of playing multiple sports, and the sacrifices required to succeed in both football and politics. Heath also dives into his experiences with NIL regulations, coaching differences between college and the NFL, and his relationships with legendary coaches like Lou Holtz and John Gruden. He offers valuable advice for freshman congressmen on navigating Capitol Hill and discusses his legislative accomplishments, the role of teamwork in Congress, and the challenges of partisanship in politics and religion. The conversation touches on various topics including the role of churches in social programs, the need for change in the Republican party, the performance of Joe Biden and Kamala Harris, the national debt, and the importance of compromise in politics. Despite his busy schedule, Heath shares his love for bird hunting, cycling, and his predictions for the next president.
Episode 11 PT1
Narrative: In this special first of a two-part episode, former Congressman Heath Shuler joins…
the Golf and Politics podcast to discuss his incredible journey from professional football player to member of Congress and beyond. Heath Shuler shares insights on the NFL draft process, the importance of playing multiple sports, and the sacrifices required to succeed in both football and politics. Heath also dives into his experiences with NIL regulations, coaching differences between college and the NFL, and his relationships with legendary coaches like Lou Holtz and John Gruden. He offers valuable advice for freshman congressmen on navigating Capitol Hill and discusses his legislative accomplishments, the role of teamwork in Congress, and the challenges of partisanship in politics and religion. The conversation touches on various topics including the role of churches in social programs, the need for change in the Republican party, the performance of Joe Biden and Kamala Harris, the national debt, and the importance of compromise in politics. Despite his busy schedule, Heath shares his love for bird hunting, cycling, and his predictions for the next president.
Episode 10
In this episode, Matt Parker and Cory Toth sit down with former Kansas Governor Bill Graves…
to discuss his unique experiences from the early days of campaigning with George H.W. Bush to his time in office serving as Secretary of State and Governor of Kansas. Bill shares his perspective on how pragmatism and bipartisanship doesn’t always work in today’s rough and tumble world of politics.
Episode 9
Join Matt Parker, Cory Toth, and Rob Ellsworth as they sit down with the legendary Notre Dame football coach…
Lou Holtz. In this insightful episode, Coach Holtz delves into his upbringing in the Ohio Valley, his illustrious coaching career, and his passion for golf. He shares his life philosophy, emphasizing the importance of making good choices, striving for excellence, and caring for others.
Episode 8
In this episode of the Golf and Politics podcast, hosts Matt Parker, Rob Ellsworth, and Cory Toth are joined by…
Mike McGetrick, the head golf professional at the Robert Trent Jones Golf Course in Gainesville, VA. They delve into the essential aspects of golf instruction, the role of technology, and even touch on political topics.
Episode 7
In this episode, Matt Parker and Rob Ellsworth interview Gerard Burke…
the CEO of Ireland Travel Links, about golf trips in Ireland and Scotland. They discuss the differences between private golf clubs in the US and Ireland, the accessibility of championship courses in Ireland, and the benefits of playing links golf. Gerard also shares insights into organizing golf trips and the unique challenges and experiences of playing golf in Ireland. The conversation includes anecdotes about famous visitors to Ballybunion Golf Club, including Bill Clinton and Tom Watson. In this conversation, Matt Parker and Gerard Burke discuss the Golfgate scandal in Ireland, the toxic nature of politics, and the power of golf to bring people together. They also talk about playing with professional golfers and the importance of giving back to fans. Gerard shares his dream foursome and his favorite golf courses in Ireland and the United States. The conversation ends with a discussion about the US Open and the impact of Bryson DeChambeau’s win on the game of golf.
Episode 6
Matt Parker and Rob Ellsworth fly solo today without Cory or a guest.
They discuss a wide range of topics, including personal experiences, mentorship, the future of the podcast, the Scotty Scheffler incident, authenticity in politics, and the impact of Donald Trump’s authenticity on the working class. It also delves into the 2024 election and the influence of grievances, trade, and inflation on political messaging.
Episode 5
In this episode, Matt Parker interviews Justin Clark, a cofounder of National Public Affairs…
and former senior staffer in the Trump White House. They discuss Justin’s transition from being a Democrat to a Republican, the political landscape in Connecticut, and the shift in demographics in certain states. They also talk about their experiences working on political campaigns, including the Foley campaign in 2010 and the Kavanaugh nomination and confirmation process. The conversation concludes with a discussion about golf and some fun questions for Justin.
Episode 4
In this episode, hosts Cory, Rob and Matt are joined by Drew Ryun, the founder and CEO of Campaign Sidekick.
They discuss Drew’s involvement in politics, his experience working at the Republican National Committee (RNC), and the relevance of the RNC in today’s political landscape. They also touch on the importance of direct voter contact and the role of social media in campaigns. The conversation transitions to the upcoming election and the strategies that both the Trump and Biden campaigns should employ. They discuss the mobilization of the base and the small percentage of undecided voters. Overall, the episode provides insights into campaign strategies and the changing dynamics of political engagement. In this part of the conversation, the speakers discuss the possibility of another surprising election outcome, the intensity of support for Trump and Biden, the potential impact of campus protests on the election, and the use of technology in political campaigns. They also talk about Drew Ryun’s company, Campaign Sidekick, and the advancements in technology that can be expected in the coming years. The conversation then shifts to Drew’s background in running and his love for golf. Drew Ryun discusses the joy of playing golf with his family and the importance of focusing on the positives in life. He shares stories about his children and their unique talents and interests. The conversation also touches on topics like favorite golf courses, the future of golf, and predictions for the 2024 presidential election.
Episode 3
In this episode, hosts Cory, Rob and Matt are joined by Valis Associates Founder….
and Virginia golfing philanthropist Wayne Valis. After an opening discussion on the dominance of golfers Scottie Scheffler and Nelly Korda and the comparison between current players and Tiger Woods. The conversation then transitions to the guest, Wayne Valis, a former Nixon and Regan staffer, who shares his experiences working in politics and his love for golf. Valis talks about Richard Nixon’s accomplishments and the need for bipartisanship in politics. The hosts also discuss the shift in campaigns and the polarization of politics. They highlight Ronald Reagan’s communication skills and share humorous stories about him. In this part of the conversation, Wayne Valis shares anecdotes about his time in the Reagan administration and his interactions with notable figures such as Bob Hope, Frank Sinatra, and Don Rickles. He also discusses his experiences playing golf with President George H.W. Bush and golf legends like Sam Snead and Gene Sarazen. Wayne reflects on the changes in the Republican Party and the challenges of integrating golf courses. He also mentions the proposal to roll back the golf ball and shares a story about President William Howard Taft defending golf against criticism. In this final part of the conversation, Wayne Valis discusses the golfing abilities of past presidents, his involvement in the Valis Family Learning Center at Pinecrest Golf Course, and his thoughts on municipal, county-run, public golf courses. The conversation concludes with a fun round of quick-fire questions.
Episode 2
Former Congressman Marty Russo, whom Dan Jenkins, Senior writer for Golf Digest once called…
Episode 1
Former Congressman Bob Ney from Ohio is the guest on the first episode of Golf and Politics.
Episode 0
Is it possible to bring Republicans and Democrats together? Maybe.
2025 Masters Pick’em Giveaway
Submit your guess for a chance to win a dozen Titleist Pro V1s of your choice.