Birdie Golf Club Podcast

Dave

Welcome to the Birdie Golf Club Podcast, where your host Dave weekly finds golf personalities from around the world and shares a conversation with them to learn more about their journey and why golf is important to them. From current Tour Pro's to Content Creators and Industry Experts, I look to get deeper than just an interview and instead find value in each individual. I hope the podcast above anything becomes a companion to your weekly routine and if along the way we can all find tips to help our game both off and on the course, then wouldn't that be lovely.

  1. 11H AGO

    The PGA Championship Has an Identity Problem

    🎙️ PGA Championship 2026 Review: Aaron Rai's Suprise Win, Course Setup & Golf’s Identity Crisis Did the 2026 PGA Championship expose a bigger problem in professional golf? In this episode of the Birdie Golf Club Podcast, I give my honest thoughts and reactions to the final round of the PGA Championship — from Aaron Rai’s breakthrough win to the growing debate around course setup, broadcasting and the tournament’s overall identity. This is a raw golf watch-along style discussion covering player performances, commentary frustrations, storytelling in modern golf coverage and what the PGA Championship needs moving forward. 🧠 What We Cover • Aaron Rai’s surprise victory and putting performance • The debate around rough, greens and pin positions • Why the PGA Championship struggles for identity • Broadcasting frustrations and weak highlight storytelling • Rory McIlroy, Jordan Spieth and Jon Rahm analysis • Commentary bias and modern golf media • Whether the PGA should consider format changes • Why storytelling matters more in golf coverage • Equipment myths and the truth about golf tees • Why majors feel different without Tiger Woods ⏱ Chapters 00:00 – PGA Championship final round reaction 00:45 – Leaderboard and contenders 01:07 – Course setup controversy 01:36 – Aaron Rai’s surprise win 02:05 – Problems with highlight coverage 02:29 – Broadcasting frustrations 03:28 – Harrington bunker highlights 04:26 – Greens and pin placement discussion 05:06 – Course design and strategy 05:36 – Commentary narratives and player focus 06:14 – Fairness in course setup 07:14 – Commentary bias 08:27 – PGA Championship identity issues 09:00 – Potential format changes 09:28 – Aaron Rai’s putting turnaround 10:24 – Relevance of the PGA Championship 11:00 – Comparing majors 11:47 – Historic English victory 12:03 – Cam Smith, Spieth & Rory updates 13:49 – Spieth and the Grand Slam debate 14:21 – Rory’s struggles in majors 15:00 – Spectator appeal in modern golf 15:34 – Payntr Golf partnership 16:35 – Footwear and walking comfort 18:16 – The Open vs PGA entertainment value 19:06 – Equipment and modern golf 19:44 – Weekend reflections 20:46 – Highlight editing frustrations 21:47 – Broadcasting inconsistencies 22:33 – Final player performances 23:01 – Audience engagement and future guests 24:12 – Podcast support and future plans 25:07 – Golf storytelling discussion 26:17 – Golf tee myths explained 27:16 – Club speed transfer physics 28:07 – Sustainable golf products 29:34 – Final thoughts on storytelling 30:25 – Aaron Rai’s clutch finish 31:23 – Ryder Cup implications 32:38 – PGA Championship vs other majors 33:05 – Closing thoughts 🤝 Podcast Partners 👟 Payntr Golf – 15% Off Performance golf footwear worn by Jason Day, Justin Rose, Sam Burns and Min Woo Lee. 👉 https://payntrgolf.co.uk CODE: BIRDIEGOLFCLUBPODCAST 📊 Shot Scope – 15% Off Performance tracking trusted by serious golfers. 👉 https://shotscope.com/?rfsn=8805411.2f49ef5&utm_source=refersion&utm_medium=affiliate&utm_campaign=8805411.2f49ef5 CODE: BIRDIEGOLFCLUB 🌍 Golf Escapes Plan your next golf trip and earn Double Escape Points. 👉 https://www.golf-escapes.com/the-birdie-golf-club-podcast-with-golf-escapes/ CODE: BIRDIEDOUBLEPOINTS 🔔 Subscribe New episodes every Tuesday featuring golfers, coaches and honest conversations around the modern game. If you love golf beyond just swing tips — this is your podcast.

    34 min
  2. MAY 12

    Are Custom Golf Clubs Worth It? | Srixon Fitting Explained

    🎙️ Srixon & Cleveland Golf Fitting Explained | George Phillips on Custom Clubs Can custom-fitted golf clubs actually improve your game? In this episode of the Birdie Golf Club Podcast, I sit down with George Phillips from Srixon & Cleveland Golf to break down the truth about golf club fitting — and why properly fitted equipment can completely change your confidence, consistency and performance on the course. We dive deep into shaft selection, lie angle, club length, strike patterns, golf ball fitting and the biggest misconceptions golfers have about custom clubs. If you’ve ever wondered whether a fitting is worth it, this episode is packed with insight. 🧠 What We Cover • Why club fitting matters for golfers of all levels • George’s journey from professional golf to expert fitting • Common myths around custom fitting • How shaft weight, lie angle and club length affect performance • Why visuals matter just as much as launch monitor data • Srixon and Cleveland Golf equipment philosophy • Golf ball fitting and matching equipment to your game • How confidence in equipment improves performance • Why consistency matters more than chasing distance • Real stories from Dave’s recent fitting experience ⏱ Chapters 00:00 – Introduction and why this episode matters 02:22 – George’s golf journey 07:32 – Passion and personality in golf 09:39 – Dave’s fitting experience 12:37 – Club fitting misconceptions 16:37 – Expectations vs reality in fittings 18:07 – Data vs visuals in fitting 19:39 – Club length and strike quality 25:13 – Lie angle checks using Sharpie lines 28:47 – How often to check your clubs 30:36 – Club length and posture 33:19 – Why Srixon is trusted by golfers 37:37 – Classic clubs and nostalgia 41:32 – Golf ball fitting explained 43:37 – Confidence and scoring 48:45 – Distance vs control 52:51 – Confidence and visualisation 56:12 – Consistency over distance 58:18 – Final thoughts on fitting 🤝 Podcast Partners 👟 Payntr Golf – 15% Off Performance golf footwear worn by Jason Day, Justin Rose, Sam Burns and Min Woo Lee. 👉 https://payntrgolf.co.uk CODE: BIRDIEGOLFCLUBPODCAST 📊 Shot Scope – 15% Off Performance tracking trusted by serious golfers. 👉 https://shotscope.com/?rfsn=8805411.2f49ef5&utm_source=refersion&utm_medium=affiliate&utm_campaign=8805411.2f49ef5 CODE: BIRDIEGOLFCLUB 🌍 Golf Escapes Plan your next golf trip and earn Double Escape Points. 👉 https://www.golf-escapes.com/the-birdie-golf-club-podcast-with-golf-escapes/ CODE: BIRDIEDOUBLEPOINTS 🔔 Subscribe New episodes every Tuesday featuring golfers, coaches, club fitters and performance experts shaping the modern game. If you love golf beyond just swing tips — this is your podcast.

    1h 4m
  3. MAY 5

    Golf Saved My Life

    🎙️ How Golf Helped Me Through Depression | Sam’s Story How can golf change your life? In this episode of the Birdie Golf Club Podcast, Sam shares his honest and powerful story of how golf became a lifeline through some of the toughest periods of his life. From struggles with mental health, debt and dark moments, to finding peace, purpose and routine through golf — this is a conversation about resilience, honesty and the impact the game can have beyond the scorecard. If you’ve ever felt the mental weight of life, this episode is a reminder that you’re not alone. Reach out to Sam at talktogsml@gmail.com 🧠 What We Cover • Sam’s journey through mental health struggles • How golf became a form of therapy and routine • The importance of getting out on the course • Using golf as both social connection and personal escape • Sharing his story online and helping others • The power of honesty and vulnerability • Balancing golf, life and self-care • The mental side of performance and expectations • Golf as more than just a game ⏱ Chapters 00:16 – Introduction and episode overview 01:15 – Golf season reflections 02:10 – Golf and mental health 09:40 – Sharing his story online 14:05 – Social media and support 19:20 – Vulnerability and honesty 25:36 – Balancing golf and life 32:45 – Golf tech and practice 43:55 – Mental approach to golf 52:27 – Watching golf and formats 62:01 – Golf as entertainment 66:42 – Final thoughts 🤝 Podcast Partners 👟 Payntr Golf – 15% Off Performance golf footwear worn by Jason Day, Justin Rose, Sam Burns and Min Woo Lee. 👉 https://payntrgolf.co.uk CODE: BIRDIEGOLFCLUBPODCAST 📊 Shot Scope – 15% Off Performance tracking trusted by serious golfers. 👉 https://shotscope.com/?rfsn=8805411.2f49ef5&utm_source=refersion&utm_medium=affiliate&utm_campaign=8805411.2f49ef5 CODE: BIRDIEGOLFCLUB 🌍 Golf Escapes Plan your next golf trip and earn Double Escape Points. 👉 https://www.golf-escapes.com/the-birdie-golf-club-podcast-with-golf-escapes/ CODE: BIRDIEDOUBLEPOINTS 🔔 Subscribe New episodes every Tuesday featuring golfers, coaches and real stories from the game. If you love golf beyond just swing tips — this is your podcast. ⚠️ If you’re struggling, please consider speaking to someone you trust or a professional. You are not alone.

    1h 8m
  4. APR 28

    US College Golf Explained: How Players Make It Pro

    🎙️ US College Golf Explained: Pathway to Pro Golf | Coach Mark Leon (Penn State) How does US college golf actually work? In this episode of the Birdie Golf Club Podcast, I sit down with Penn State head coach Mark Leon to break down the structure, scale, and reality of the American college golf system. From facilities and recruitment to mindset and pathways into professional golf, this is one of the most honest and insightful conversations you’ll hear on how elite golfers are developed in the US. Whether you’re a junior golfer, parent, or just curious about the system — this episode explains it all. 🧠 What We Cover • How the US college golf system works (Division 1, 2 & 3) • What college golf facilities are really like • The recruitment process and what coaches actually look for • The importance of social media in modern recruiting • How college golf prepares players for professional golf • The impact of LIV Golf on pathways • NIL, scholarships and the changing landscape • Mental health and pressure in college athletics • Team dynamics vs individual performance • Practical advice for junior golfers ⏱ Chapters 00:00 – Fitzpatrick milestones and golf news 02:12 – Golf traditions and celebrations 03:11 – Podcast updates 04:10 – Upcoming golf trip 05:49 – Mark Leon background 07:11 – US college golf explained 08:02 – Facilities and resources 10:28 – Recruitment insights 12:25 – Player support systems 15:22 – College vs professional level 16:39 – LIV Golf impact 17:53 – Pathways to pro golf 20:23 – Academic and athletic balance 22:24 – Character in recruitment 24:46 – Team dynamics 27:34 – Role of modern coaches 31:04 – US golf ecosystem 33:37 – NIL and revenue changes 36:07 – LIV influence on pathways 38:51 – Challenges for aspiring pros 43:28 – Equipment and performance 44:48 – Using data in practice 46:08 – Social media in recruiting 49:28 – Mental health in athletes 52:04 – Coaching philosophy 54:32 – Advice for young golfers 🤝 Podcast Partners 👟 Payntr Golf – 15% Off Performance golf footwear worn by Jason Day, Justin Rose, Sam Burns and Min Woo Lee. 👉 https://payntrgolf.co.uk CODE: BIRDIEGOLFCLUBPODCAST 📊 Shot Scope – 15% Off Performance tracking trusted by serious golfers. 👉 https://shotscope.com/?rfsn=8805411.2f49ef5&utm_source=refersion&utm_medium=affiliate&utm_campaign=8805411.2f49ef5 CODE: BIRDIEGOLFCLUB 🌍 Golf Escapes Plan your next golf trip and earn Double Escape Points. 👉 https://www.golf-escapes.com/the-birdie-golf-club-podcast-with-golf-escapes/ CODE: BIRDIEDOUBLEPOINTS 🔔 Subscribe New episodes every Tuesday featuring golfers, coaches and performance insights. If you want to understand how golfers actually make it to the next level — this is your podcast.

    56 min
  5. APR 21

    I Quit My Job to Become a Scratch Golfer in 1 Year

    What would happen if you dedicated a full year to improving your golf game? In this episode of the Birdie Golf Club Podcast, I sit down with Joel to unpack his raw and honest journey of taking a year away from work to focus entirely on golf improvement. We dive into the reality behind the idea — the struggles, plateaus, breakthroughs, and what actually changes when you treat golf like a full-time job. This is not a highlight reel. It’s the truth about what it really takes to get better. 🧠 What We Cover • Why Joel took a year off to focus on golf • The reality of full-time practice and burnout • Managing expectations and dealing with plateaus • The mental challenges of improvement • The role of coaching, structure and routines • How equipment fitting builds confidence • Using launch monitors and technology effectively • The impact of competition and new environments • Content creation and accountability • Why consistency beats intensity ⏱ Chapters 00:00 – Introduction and show update 01:13 – Joel’s golf experiment begins 02:27 – Full Swing discussion 04:13 – Golf storytelling and media 05:59 – Missed moments in coverage 07:07 – Access and storytelling 08:39 – Golf news and updates 09:39 – Quitting work to pursue golf 10:18 – The inspiration behind the decision 13:00 – Content creation and accountability 16:07 – Treating golf like a full-time job 17:13 – Filming and editing struggles 18:40 – Winter setbacks 20:01 – Balancing competition and content 22:04 – Managing expectations 23:11 – Focusing on fundamentals 24:48 – Learning from elite players 28:08 – Using technology in practice 29:39 – Avoiding overanalysis 31:36 – Downsides of filming 34:08 – Building a structured plan 36:28 – Simplifying routines 38:50 – Over-practice risks 41:44 – Simulator benefits 44:20 – Reps and scoring 46:08 – Plateaus and patience 50:19 – Confidence in equipment 54:56 – Club fitting importance 58:10 – Long-term investment in gear 63:45 – Trust in competition 66:36 – Playing tougher courses 72:13 – Community support 74:42 – Accepting ups and downs 77:24 – Final reflections 🤝 Podcast Partners 👟 Payntr Golf – 15% Off Performance golf footwear worn by players like Jason Day, Justin Rose, Sam Burns and Min Woo Lee. 👉 https://payntrgolf.co.uk CODE: BIRDIEGOLFCLUBPODCAST 📊 Shot Scope – 15% Off Performance tracking trusted by serious golfers. 👉 https://shotscope.com/?rfsn=8805411.2f49ef5&utm_source=refersion&utm_medium=affiliate&utm_campaign=8805411.2f49ef5 CODE: BIRDIEGOLFCLUB 🌍 Golf Escapes Plan your next golf trip and earn Double Escape Points. 👉 https://www.golf-escapes.com/the-birdie-golf-club-podcast-with-golf-escapes/ CODE: BIRDIEDOUBLEPOINTS 🔔 Subscribe New episodes every Tuesday featuring golfers, coaches, founders and performance experts shaping the modern game. If you care about improving your golf beyond just your swing — this is your podcast.

    1h 18m
  6. APR 14

    What Really Happened at The Masters? (Rory, LIV & Controversy)

    🎙️ Masters 2026 Breakdown: Rory, LIV Golf & Augusta Controversies What really happened at the Masters? In this episode of the Birdie Golf Club Podcast, we break down the biggest storylines from Augusta — from Rory McIlroy’s performance to the growing influence of LIV Golf and the traditions that make the Masters so unique. This is a deeper discussion on the tournament beyond just results — exploring the psychology, controversies, and evolving landscape of modern golf. If you love the Masters and want to understand the stories behind the headlines, this episode is for you. 🧠 What We Cover ​ Rory McIlroy’s performance and resilience ​ LIV Golf’s presence and impact at Augusta ​ The traditions that make the Masters unique ​ The Par 3 Contest controversy ​ Bryson DeChambeau’s performance ​ The role of media and celebrity in golf ​ Mental strength and performance under pressure ​ Equipment and its influence on results ​ The changing landscape of professional golf ​ Personal reflections and lessons from the tournament ⏱ Chapters 00:00 – The journey into podcasting 01:27 – Experiences at the Masters 04:31 – Interviews with celebrities and influencers 07:33 – Authentic conversations in golf 10:22 – Par 3 Contest controversy 13:39 – Bryson DeChambeau analysis 18:28 – Media and family dynamics 21:00 – The wholesomeness of the Masters 22:10 – Rory McIlroy’s performance 28:15 – Tradition in golf 33:18 – LIV Golf vs PGA Tour 38:58 – The mental game of golf 40:57 – Equipment and performance 43:03 – Sponsors in golf 46:36 – PGA Tour vs LIV debate 52:16 – Golf fan culture 56:57 – Hole-in-one vs albatross debate 01:01:52 – Announcements and sponsorships 01:03:13 – Content creation 01:03:58 – Equipment fitting experience 01:05:27 – Sergio Garcia moments 01:08:03 – Masters vs The Open 01:12:16 – Personal goals in golf 01:16:40 – Mental coaching and game management 01:22:20 – Reflections and future plans 🤝 Podcast Partners ⛳ Strike Wedge – 15% Off Improve strike consistency, low point control and impact feedback across all clubs. 👉 https://strikewedge.com/birdiegolfclubpodcast 📊 Shot Scope – 15% Off Performance tracking trusted by serious golfers. 👉 https://shotscope.com/?rfsn=8805411.2f49ef5&utm_source=refersion&utm_medium=affiliate&utm_campaign=8805411.2f49ef5 CODE: BIRDIEGOLFCLUB 🌍 Golf Escapes Plan your next golf trip and earn Double Escape Points. 👉 https://www.golf-escapes.com/the-birdie-golf-club-podcast-with-golf-escapes/ CODE: BIRDIEDOUBLEPOINTS 🔔 Subscribe New episodes every Tuesday featuring golfers, coaches, founders and performance insights. If you love golf beyond just swing tips — this is your podcast.

    1h 24m
  7. APR 9

    Who Wins The Masters? My Predictions for Augusta

    🎙️ Masters 2026 Preview: Predictions, Contenders & Who Wins Augusta? Masters week is here. In this episode of the Birdie Golf Club Podcast, I break down the biggest storylines heading into Augusta — from the main contenders to dark horses, course conditions, and my personal top 10 predictions. We dive into what actually matters at Augusta National: experience, approach play, mental resilience and course-specific knowledge. This is a mix of data, insight and gut feel — everything you need before the first tee shot. 🧠 What We Cover • Why the Masters is the most unique event in golf • Key contenders: Scottie Scheffler, Rory McIlroy and more • Augusta specialists and players with strong course history • Dark horses and underrated picks • The impact of course setup and weather conditions • Why experience matters more at Augusta than most majors • The role of mental toughness and composure • My full top 10 prediction • Head vs heart picks: Patrick Reed & Justin Rose ⏱ Chapters 00:00 – Masters week excitement 00:42 – Why the Masters is unique 01:10 – Episode structure and predictions 01:38 – Tiger Woods absence and updates 02:07 – Tiger’s health discussion 03:06 – Reflection on Tiger & Phil 03:36 – Masters traditions 04:05 – Course setup and strategy 05:05 – Data-driven prediction model 06:00 – Augusta performance indicators 07:28 – Top contenders analysis 08:28 – Rahm, DeChambeau and LIV players 09:26 – Augusta specialists 10:52 – Strong contenders breakdown 11:19 – Mental toughness at Augusta 11:47 – Dark horse picks 14:03 – Weather and course impact 15:47 – Veterans vs rising stars 16:41 – Players to avoid 17:21 – Final top 10 predictions 18:20 – Title contenders 19:52 – Final picks: Reed & Rose 20:49 – Strategy and conditions 22:16 – Experience and adaptability 23:03 – Form and course fit 23:42 – Media and readiness 24:29 – Justin Rose story 26:33 – Final battle: Reed, Rahm, Hideki 27:19 – Keys to winning 28:44 – Final thoughts 🤝 Podcast Partners 📊 Shot Scope – 15% Off Improve your performance with data-driven insights and GPS tracking. 👉 https://shotscope.com/?rfsn=8805411.2f49ef5&utm_source=refersion&utm_medium=affiliate&utm_campaign=8805411.2f49ef5 CODE: BIRDIEGOLFCLUB ⛳ Strike Wedge – 15% Off Improve strike consistency and impact control. 👉 https://strikewedge.com/birdiegolfclubpodcast 🌍 Golf Escapes Plan your next golf trip and earn Double Escape Points. 👉 https://www.golf-escapes.com/the-birdie-golf-club-podcast-with-golf-escapes/ CODE: BIRDIEDOUBLEPOINTS 🔔 Subscribe New episodes every Tuesday featuring golfers, coaches and performance insights. If you love golf beyond just swing tips — this is your podcast.

    33 min
  8. APR 7

    Most Golfers Are Training Wrong !

    🎙️ Golf Fitness Explained: Strength, Mobility & Performance | Toby Steggall (TS Fitness) Can getting stronger actually improve your golf game? In this episode of the Birdie Golf Club Podcast, I sit down with Toby Steggall from TS Fitness to break down how strength training, mobility, and nutrition directly impact golf performance. Toby brings a unique perspective — coming from a bodybuilding and fitness background rather than golf — offering practical, no-nonsense advice that cuts through the noise of “golf-specific” gimmicks. We explore how building strength, improving mobility, and dialling in recovery can lead to more distance, better consistency, and long-term longevity in the game. 🧠 What We Cover • Why strength training improves golf performance and stability • The link between muscle, speed and driving distance • Why compound lifts are essential for golfers • Mobility work and flexibility (including dead hangs) • Common myths about gym training and golf • Hydration, nutrition and fueling strategies • Recovery, inflammation and injury prevention • The mental health benefits of training and movement • Why consistency beats complicated routines • Individual biomechanics vs generic golf fitness plans ⏱ Chapters 00:07 – Introduction and Toby’s background 00:31 – Fitness, nutrition and golf crossover 00:57 – Why non-golf fitness experts add value 01:26 – Missed opportunities in golf training 02:48 – Masters preview and episode intro 04:06 – Toby’s intense training experiences 05:12 – Strength training impact on golf 05:27 – Weight loss, muscle and performance 06:10 – Muscle vs speed myths 07:21 – Strength training and injury prevention 08:54 – Building power through muscle 10:46 – Exercise selection for golfers 11:24 – Full-body training benefits 12:47 – Explosive power and balance 13:22 – Bodybuilding vs power training 14:39 – Tendon and ligament health 15:29 – Genetics and training response 17:58 – Golf and bodybuilding mindset parallels 19:34 – Mental benefits of training 22:19 – Stress reduction and clarity 24:54 – Nutrition mistakes golfers make 25:13 – Hydration basics 27:27 – Carbs, electrolytes and performance 29:48 – Key performance habits 32:05 – Building sustainable routines 33:45 – Walking, movement and golf 34:48 – Creatine and performance 36:23 – Creatine myths and dosage 38:15 – Mobility and flexibility work 39:32 – Golf-specific mobility 41:37 – Gym equipment debate 43:43 – Fixing imbalances 44:16 – Holistic training approach 46:32 – Practical advice for golfers 48:01 – Elite player training habits 51:02 – Tiger Woods and injuries 55:22 – Injury prevention strategies 58:32 – Golf recovery culture 61:26 – Scaling strength and mobility 62:41 – Golf as daily movement 63:26 – Connecting with Toby 🤝 Podcast Partners ⛳ Strike Wedge – 15% Off Improve strike consistency, low point control and impact feedback across all clubs. 👉 https://strikewedge.com/birdiegolfclubpodcast 📊 Shot Scope – 15% Off Performance tracking trusted by serious golfers. 👉 https://shotscope.com/?rfsn=8805411.2f49ef5&utm_source=refersion&utm_medium=affiliate&utm_campaign=8805411.2f49ef5 CODE: BIRDIEGOLFCLUB 🌍 Golf Escapes Plan your next golf trip and earn Double Escape Points. 👉 https://www.golf-escapes.com/the-birdie-golf-club-podcast-with-golf-escapes/ CODE: BIRDIEDOUBLEPOINTS 🔔 Subscribe New episodes every Tuesday featuring golfers, coaches, founders and performance experts shaping the modern game. If you care about improving your golf beyond just your swing — this is your podcast.

    1h 5m

About

Welcome to the Birdie Golf Club Podcast, where your host Dave weekly finds golf personalities from around the world and shares a conversation with them to learn more about their journey and why golf is important to them. From current Tour Pro's to Content Creators and Industry Experts, I look to get deeper than just an interview and instead find value in each individual. I hope the podcast above anything becomes a companion to your weekly routine and if along the way we can all find tips to help our game both off and on the course, then wouldn't that be lovely.

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