GOLF DON'T LIE

Jeff Pelizzaro | 18STRONG | GOLF DON'T LIE
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Golf is more than a game. It reveals who we are. GOLF DON’T LIE™ is a podcast about the truth that this game teaches us — through the stories, struggles, and victories of the people who play it. Host Jeff Pelizzaro sits down with athletes, musicians, thinkers, and everyday legends who all share one thing in common: a love for the game. Real talk, honest laughs, and the lessons that show up when the scorecard is long forgotten.

  1. 4 DAYS AGO

    Ep. 11 (GDL) Adam Wahl: Gratitude, Service, and Life as a Caddie at The Keep

    Adam Wahl joins the show to share his journey from a 21-year career in the U.S. Air Force to becoming one of the original caddies at The Keep at the McLemore. The conversation covers service, gratitude, and how golf became a meaningful part of his transition into retirement. In this episode, Jeff Pelizzaro and Justin Bryant sit down with Adam Wahl, a retired Air Force veteran and professional caddie at The Keep at the McLemore. Adam reflects on his military career, the challenges of transitioning into civilian life, and how golf helped provide structure, purpose, and community. The discussion also explores what makes The Keep a special place, the role of a great caddie, and lessons the game continues to teach about perspective, self-care, and appreciation In This Episode Adam’s 21-year career in the U.S. Air ForceTransitioning from military service to civilian lifeDiscovering caddying as a second careerWhat makes The Keep at the McLemore uniqueThe impact a great caddie has on the golf experienceFitness, longevity, and walking golf coursesCompetitive golf and amateur tournamentsGratitude, perspective, and taking care of yourself Guest Bio Adam Wahl is a retired U.S. Air Force veteran with over two decades of service. Following his military career, he transitioned into the golf industry and became one of the original caddies at The Keep at the McLemore. Adam is an avid golfer, competitive amateur, and advocate for fitness, gratitude, and lifelong growth through the game of golf. Instagram @18strong @1stphorm Links https://18strong.com https://1stphorm.com/18strong Golf Don’t Lie™️ is part of the 18STRONG® network, focused on helping golfers play better, move better, and live healthier lives. New episodes are released weekly featuring conversations with people who live at the intersection of golf, fitness, and life

    1h 16m

  2. 10/12/2025

    Ep.10 (GDL) Cordie Walker: Stop Chasing Tips — Start Training Skill, Speed & Better Golf

    Cordie Walker is the founder of Golf Science Lab and GolfWell, and one of the leading voices helping golfers cut through noise, frustration, and endless swing tips. In this episode, Jeff, Justin, and Cordie dig into why most golfers stay stuck, how real skill development works, and how to train for speed and performance that actually transfers to the course. In this episode of GOLF DON’T LIE™️, Jeff and Justin sit down with Cordie Walker, founder of GolfWell, to break down why golfers struggle to improve even when they consume tons of lessons, content, and swing tips. Cordie explains the science of motor learning and skill acquisition — and why most golfers never train in the way that leads to real, lasting progress. They explore concepts like variable training, self-organization, real-world practice environments, and why chasing “positions” rarely translates to playing better golf. The guys also dive into the chase for speed and why most golfers train speed incorrectly — along with simple ways to build athleticism and intention into practice. Cordie shares the evolution of GolfWell, why he believes golfers need fewer fixes and more frameworks, and how modern learning science is reshaping the way coaches and players approach improvement. This is a conversation for any golfer who wants to stop guessing, stop grinding, and start training with purpose. In This Episode, We Discuss:Why golfers get stuck chasing swing tips that don’t stickThe learning principles that actually produce long-term improvementWhat real skill development looks like (and why it’s rarely “pretty”)How to train for speed in a way that transfers to the courseWhy constraints & variability create better golfersThe evolution of GolfWell and developing systems for frustrated golfersThe role of athleticism, intention, and exploration in performanceWhy overly technical coaching slows progressHow golfers can design practice sessions that build skill — not confusion Guest Bio — Cordie WalkerCordie Walker is the founder of Golf Science Lab and GolfWell, platforms dedicated to helping golfers improve using evidence-based coaching, learning science, and practical training frameworks. Over the past decade, Cordie has interviewed and collaborated with many of the world’s leading coaches, researchers, and performance experts. His mission is to take golfers out of frustration loops and give them the tools to train skill, speed, and confidence that actually show up on the course. Links & ResourcesGolfWell: https://golfwell.comGolfWell YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@GolfWellTVFollow Cordie: @cordie_golfwell18STRONG: https://18strong.com1st Phorm: https://1stphorm.com/18strong Follow on Social Media:@golfdontlie@18strong@18strongjeffa href="https://www.instagram.com/thegoodbogey/" rel="noopener noreferrer"...

    1h 24m

  3. 22/11/2025

    Ep.09 (GDL) Curt Rohe — Golf Tournament Setup, The Handicapping System, and Common Rule Mistakes

    Curt Rohe is the Executive Director of the Metropolitan Amateur Golf Association — the governing body for competitive golf in the St. Louis region. Jeff and Justin dive into how tournaments are set up, why handicaps matter more than golfers realize, the most misunderstood everyday rules, and the massive “Normandy Reimagined” project involving Jack Nicklaus that’s reshaping public golf access in St. Louis. In this episode of GOLF DON’T LIE™️, Jeff sits down with Curt Rohe, Executive Director of the Metropolitan Amateur Golf Association, for a behind-the-scenes look at competitive golf in the St. Louis region. Curt explains what actually goes into running tournament operations — marking courses, selecting hole locations, coordinating rules officials — and why certain rules still trip golfers up at every level. They also break down handicapping: why every golfer should have one, how nine-hole and partial-round posting works, and how the system measures improvement. A major highlight is the Normandy Reimagined project — a Jack Nicklaus–led renovation that will bring a top-tier public golf course, a youth caddie program, Evans Scholarship opportunities, and First Tee programming to North St. Louis County. Curt shares updates, stories from Jack’s visits, and why this project is about more than golf — it’s about revitalizing a community. In This Episode, We Discuss:What the Metropolitan Amateur Golf Association does across the regionHow tournament setup works behind the scenesThe most misunderstood rules golfers constantly misapplyWhy a handicap matters (even for casual players)How nine-hole and partial-round posting actually worksThe vision behind the Normandy Reimagined projectJack Nicklaus’ direct involvement and on-site visitsHow the caddie program ties into the Evans Scholars pipelineCurt’s path from rural Missouri to leading golf administrationWhat 25 years of golf has taught him about humility and service Guest Bio — Curt RoheCurt Rohe is the Executive Director of the Metropolitan Amateur Golf Association, where he has overseen competitive golf, USGA qualifiers, course rating, and handicapping operations for more than two decades. Known for his elite tournament setup and rules knowledge, Curt also serves on the board of the Metropolitan Golf Foundation, which is leading the Normandy Reimagined project with Jack Nicklaus, First Tee, and the Western Golf Association. Links & ResourcesNormandy Reimagined: https://normandreimagined.comMetropolitan Amateur Golf Association: https://metga.org18STRONG: https://18strong.comFairway Fuel Mix (1st Phorm x 18STRONG): https://1stphorm.com/18strongInstagram:@golfdontlie@18strong@18strongjeff

    1h 19m

  4. 11/11/2025

    Ep.08 (GDL) Micah Candeletta-Burklin: Building Rana Golf & Growing the Game for Kids

    Rana Golf founder Micah Candeletta-Burklin joins us to talk junior golf bags, getting kids on the course, and building a family-first brand that helps parents share the game with their little ones. In this episode of Golf Don’t Lie, Jeff and JB sit down with Micah Candeletta-Burklin, co-founder of Rana Golf, a junior golf bag brand inspired by his own boys wanting “the same cool gear as dad.” Micah shares how a simple search for a quality kids bag turned into a startup, how he and his wife combined her design eye with his golf obsession, and why he thinks golf might be the ultimate life hack for family time. Micah also talks about growing up in Germany as a missionary kid, chasing soccer dreams through college, tearing his ACL three times, and eventually pouring that competitive fire into golf and entrepreneurship. From sourcing factories and battling tariffs to dealing with quality issues and finding community with other golf founders, this is a real-world look at building something from scratch—while still trying to be a present dad. In this episode, we cover: How Rana Golf started with Micah’s son simply wanting his own “real” golf bagWhy features like a stand and a single strap matter so much for 3–6-year-oldsDesigning bags that parents are proud of and kids are excited to carryThe balance of not forcing golf on your kids, but making it fun and invitingStories of his boys’ first “real” birdies, chip-ins, and snack-break golfMicah’s path from German youth soccer to college ball and finally to golfThe emotional side of starting a brand with limited capital and young kids at homeWhat golf has shown him about fear, overthinking, and trusting his swing (and himself) If you’re a golf-obsessed parent who wants to get your kids on the course without turning it into a grind, this one’s right in your wheelhouse. 🔗 Links & Resources👉 Follow the Show & Crew: • @golfdontlie • @18strong • @18strongjeff 🏌️‍♂️ Visit the Crew: • 18STRONG.com 💪 Fuel Your Game: • 1stPhorm.com/18STRONG — Shop our go-to protein, hydration, and recovery gear. Every order supports the show and enters you in our monthly 1st Phorm + 18STRONG giveaway.

    1h 16m

  5. 04/11/2025

    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.org Links & 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 activations Show Partners1st Phorm — premium nutrition for golfers who play strong and live stronger.18STRONG — programs & community to help you Play More Golf. Live More Life.

    1 hr

  6. 14/10/2025

    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 System Show 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.

    55 min

  7. 03/10/2025

    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.

    1h 24m

  8. 19/09/2025

    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.

    1h 17m
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About

Golf is more than a game. It reveals who we are. GOLF DON’T LIE™ is a podcast about the truth that this game teaches us — through the stories, struggles, and victories of the people who play it. Host Jeff Pelizzaro sits down with athletes, musicians, thinkers, and everyday legends who all share one thing in common: a love for the game. Real talk, honest laughs, and the lessons that show up when the scorecard is long forgotten.

Information

  • Creator
    Jeff Pelizzaro | 18STRONG | GOLF DON'T LIE
  • Years Active
    2014 - 2025
  • Episodes
    312
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2025 Jeff Pelizzaro | 18STRONG | GOLF DON'T LIE
  • Show Website
    GOLF DON'T LIE

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