Is The PGA Tour Doomed? Controversial Insights from a Golf Agent Mac Barnhardt

Summary Bo Watson joins us to discuss the evolving landscape of golf media, particularly the rise of influencers on platforms like YouTube. We explore the impact of these changes on traditional golf training and the importance of mental strategies in improving performance. Bo shares insights on resetting one's mindset during play and the significance of specialized instruction to address individual golfer needs. We also challenge navigating online golf instruction and the necessity of personalized coaching to overcome common frustrations in the game.  Bo discusses the critical aspects of golf coaching, emphasizing the importance of understanding swing positions and the foundational elements of a good golf swing. He highlights the upcoming Road2TheTour Summit, which aims to educate serious golfers on competitive strategies and mental approaches to the game. The summit features a range of expert speakers who will share insights on various aspects of golf, from swing mechanics to mental strategies, providing attendees with valuable knowledge to improve their game. TakeawaysYouTube has become a significant platform for golf instruction.There is a mix of good and bad information available online.Golf influencers are changing the way the game is perceived and played.Mental training is crucial for golfers to perform under pressure.The 'ball reset' technique can help golfers regain focus.Breathing techniques can significantly reduce anxiety during play.Specialized instruction is essential for addressing individual golfer issues.Frustration is a leading cause of golfers quitting the game.Personalized coaching is more effective than generic online advice.Golfers need to learn how to shut off swing mechanics during play. Good coaches educate on the 'why' behind techniques.Understanding swing positions is crucial for improvement.A solid foundation in swing mechanics can prevent issues.The mental side of golf is key to success.The Road to the Tour Summit offers valuable insights for golfers.Attending the summit can be free and beneficial.Expert speakers will cover a range of golf topics.Networking with professionals can enhance learning.Learning from top coaches can accelerate improvement.The summit is designed for both aspiring and recreational golfers.Let's play golf together next Spring! Our next Golf Smarter Adventure will be on the Robert Trent Jones Trail in Birmingham, AL on March 26-30, 2025.  Space is limited. Learn more and reserve your spot now at tmigolf.com/golfsmarter Follow @golfsmarter on Instagram, X, Facebook, TikTok, YouTube for daily highlights and helpful insights from our interviews on the podcast. We also post articles and video shorts on LinkedIn @FredGreene (from Novato, CA).    Receive three free gifts when you post an honest review about Golf Smarter on your favorite podcast app including Apple Podcasts and Spotify. Listen for details.  This episode is sponsored by Indeed. Please visit indeed.com/GOLFSMARTER and get a $75 SPONSORED JOB CREDIT. Terms and conditions apply. This episode is sponsored by SelectQuote. Make sure you get the right life insurance for YOU, for LESS, at selectquote.com/golfsmarter

GS# 361 December 7, 2012 PGA Tour Pro Matt Every joins us to discuss life on the Tour, growing up as a star golfer in High School, and earning the 2006 Ben Hogan Award for best amateur in the nation. Our SCOR Zone Short Game Academy attacks chipping around the green.Each Friday, Golf Smarter Mulligans provide you with selected episodes from our archives that date back to 2005. These evergreen game improvement conversations are as helpful today as they were when first released.   Follow @golfsmarter on Instagram, X, Facebook, TikTok, YouTube for daily highlights and helpful insights from our interviews on the podcast. We also post articles and video shorts on LinkedIn @FredGreene (from Novato, CA).    Receive three free gifts when you post an honest review about Golf Smarter on your favorite podcast app. Listen for details.  This episode is sponsored by Indeed. Please visit indeed.com/GOLFSMARTER and get a $75 SPONSORED JOB CREDIT. Terms and conditions apply. This episode is also brought to you by SelectQuote. 

972: Summary We're joined by golf agent Mac Barnhardt sharing his insights, sometime controversial, about the unique role of golf agents, the challenges faced by professional golfers, and the impact of sponsorships and endorsements. We discuss the influence of Tiger Woods on the game, the financial sustainability of the PGA Tour, and the importance of managing expectations for players. Barnhardt emphasizes the evolving landscape of golf participation and viewership. In this engaging conversation, Barnhardt discusses the intricacies of professional golf, touching on the excitement of the Ryder Cup, the evolution of golf broadcasting, and the impact of COVID-19 on the sport. He delves into the controversy surrounding LIV Golf, the missed opportunities of the PGA Tour, and the potential of team golf to revolutionize the game. Barnhardt also shares insights on the players' perspectives regarding their decisions and the role of agents in navigating these changes.TakeawaysGolf agents manage not just contracts but entire teams for players.Expectations can significantly impact a golfer's performance.Authenticity in sponsorships is crucial for player success.The PGA Tour faces sustainability challenges amid rising player payouts.Building relationships with clients is more important than transactional deals.Participation in golf has surged post-COVID, affecting viewership.The PGA Tour should expand opportunities for players, not reduce them.Golf's product needs to evolve to meet changing viewer preferences.The future of golf may require innovative approaches to player development. The Ryder Cup is an unparalleled experience in golf.LIV Golf's emergence has created a divide in the golf community.The PGA Tour's failure to engage with LIV Golf was a critical mistake.Team golf has the potential to attract new fans and grow the game.The PGA Tour's focus on profit has led to missed opportunities for players.Players are generally satisfied with their earnings on the PGA Tour.The LIV Golf model offers unique opportunities for players, especially those in need.The future of golf may involve more collaboration between different leagues.Let's play golf together next Spring! Our next Golf Smarter Adventure will be on the Robert Trent Jones Trail in Birmingham, AL on March 26-30, 2025.  Space is limited. Learn more and reserve your spot now at tmigolf.com/golfsmarterFollow @golfsmarter on Instagram, X, Facebook, TikTok, YouTube for daily highlights and helpful insights from our interviews on the podcast. We also post articles and video shorts on LinkedIn @FredGreene (from Novato, CA).    Receive three free gifts when you post an honest review about Golf Smarter on your favorite podcast app including Apple Podcasts and Spotify. Listen for details. This episode is sponsored by Indeed. Please visit indeed.com/GOLFSMARTER and get a $75 SPONSORED JOB CREDIT. Terms and conditions apply. 

GSfMO#360 December 4, 2012 Lower back, mid back, hamstrings, knees, elbows, wrists. All common areas for golf pain. Exercise Physiologist Bob Forman returns to identify what specifically is hurting you and how to deal with them by prescribing stretches, exercises, and drills. This was originally a Members Only episode that lived behind our paywall and is the first time it's been shared publically.Follow @golfsmarter on Instagram, X, Facebook, TikTok, YouTube for daily highlights and helpful insights from our interviews on the podcast. We also post articles and video shorts on LinkedIn @FredGreene (from Novato, CA).    Receive three free gifts when you post an honest review about Golf Smarter on your favorite podcast app. Listen for details.  This episode is sponsored by Indeed. Please visit indeed.com/GOLFSMARTER and get a $75 SPONSORED JOB CREDIT. Terms and conditions apply. 

971: Summary This conversation features golf fitness expert and author Joey 'D' Diovisalvi on the critical role of the body in golf performance. Joey explores how golfers can improve their game through better understanding of their physical capabilities, the importance of flexibility, mobility, and strength, and the need for proper conditioning. The conversation also highlights the significance of dynamic movement over static stretching, the value of assessments in identifying personal needs, and the upcoming launch of the Hit It Great app, designed to help golfers of all levels enhance their performance through tailored workouts and guidance. Learn more at joeydgolf.comTakeawaysThe body is the most important tool in golf.Improving accuracy can be more beneficial than focusing solely on distance.Understanding your body's limitations can enhance your golf game.Dynamic movement is more effective than static stretching for golfers.Regular assessments can help identify areas for improvement in golf performance.Flexibility, mobility, and strength are crucial for a successful golf swing.Golfers should focus on balance to improve their swings.Hydration is essential for maintaining performance during long rounds of golf.The Hit It Great app will provide tailored workouts for golfers.10 minutes of focused training can lead to significant improvements.Follow @golfsmarter on Instagram, X, Facebook, TikTok, YouTube for daily highlights and helpful insights from our interviews on the podcast. We also post articles and video shorts on LinkedIn @FredGreene (from Novato, CA).    Receive three free gifts when you post an honest review about Golf Smarter on your favorite podcast app including Apple Podcasts and Spotify. Listen for details. This episode is brought to you by the PXG. Upgrade your bag with PXG clubs and take your game to a whole new level. For a limited time, you can save $10 per club. Head over to PXG.com/SMARTER and use code SMARTER to save $10 per club on your order.  This episode is sponsored by Indeed. Please visit indeed.com/GOLFSMARTER and get a $75 SPONSORED JOB CREDIT. Terms and conditions apply. 

GS#359 Exercise Physiologist Bob Forman warns about golf magazines' promises to increase your distance. Fix your posture at address or lose distance and invite back pain. Our SCOR Zone Short Game Academy helps you decide which club to use between two distances.Follow @golfsmarter on Instagram, X, Facebook, TikTok, YouTube for daily highlights and helpful insights from our interviews on the podcast. We also post articles and video shorts on LinkedIn @FredGreene (from Novato, CA).    Receive three free gifts when you post an honest review about Golf Smarter on your favorite podcast app. Listen for details. This episode is brought to you by the PXG. Upgrade your bag with PXG clubs and take your game to a whole new level. For a limited time, you can save $10 per club. Head over to PXG.com/SMARTER and use code SMARTER to save $10 per club on your order.  This episode is sponsored by Indeed. Please visit indeed.com/GOLFSMARTER and get a $75 SPONSORED JOB CREDIT. Terms and conditions apply.This episode is also brought to you by Waitlist from Wine Access. Visit wineaccess.com/waitlist and use promo code "golfsmarter" for $25 off your first shipment!This episode is brought to you by Timeline Nutrition. Timeline is offering 10% off your first order of Mitopure. Go to timeline.com/GOLFSMARTER.

970:  Summary This week we meet Joel Suggs, PGA Master Professional, who explains the role of master professionals, the intricacies of golf instruction, focusing on his concept of the "Scoring PGA" personal bell curve that every golfer experiences. We also explore how understanding one's average performance can shift the mental approach to the game, emphasizing the importance of enjoying good misses and maintaining a positive mindset. Joel's family has a fascinating and historic place in golf history. The discussion also highlights practical strategies for improving performance, such as driving in play and recognizing the solutions already present in a golfer's game.TakeawaysMaster professionals have a higher level of education and certification.The classification system for PGA members has evolved over timeThere are now 24 different types of PGA members.Master professionals often teach aspiring PGA members.Everyone has a personal bell curve in golf.60% of rounds are average for all players.Mental game significantly impacts performance.Enjoying good misses can enhance the golfing experience.Golf success is about understanding what you're doing right.Players often underestimate their good shots.Gradual improvement is key in golf.Keeping a simple scorecard can reveal insights.Driving in Play: A Key to Lower ScoresThe Mental Game of Golf: Strategies for SuccessFollow @golfsmarter on Instagram, X, Facebook, TikTok, YouTube for daily highlights and helpful insights from our interviews on the podcast. We also post articles and video shorts on LinkedIn @FredGreene (from Novato, CA).    Receive three free gifts when you post an honest review about Golf Smarter on your favorite podcast app. Listen for details.  This episode is brought to you by the PXG. Upgrade your bag with PXG clubs and take your game to a whole new level. For a limited time, you can save $10 per club. Head over to PXG.com/SMARTER and use code SMARTER to save $10 per club on your order.  This episode is sponsored by Indeed. Please visit indeed.com/GOLFSMARTER and get a $75 SPONSORED JOB CREDIT. Terms and conditions apply. 

GS#358fMO November 20, 2012 GSfMO#358 Terry "The Wedge Guy" Koehler, CEO of SCOR Golf joins us for 40 minutes to answer more questions submitted to SCOR Zone Short Game Academy. We've received so many great questions about improving our short game that we decided to answer 4 more questions in a full episode.   This was originally a Members Only episode that lived behind our paywall, so this is the first time it's ever been shared publically. Questions:Matthew Etter of Durham, NC: What is the recommended approach for handling "flier" lies around the green? In my area we have a lot of bermuda grasses, and when cut high there can be a lot of space between the ball and the ground. Should you still try to hit down on the ball to impart spin? It seems to me that there's no way you're going to compress the ball when it's sitting up so much, but trying to scoop the ball with an ascending blow doesn't seem like the right approach either. Any alternatives?Matt McElroy of Brentwood, NH: How do we know which scoring club to use from the sand? Are different types of sand a factor?Ron Hampel of Portland, OR I'm fairly new to golf, having taken up the game about 18 months ago. My play from tee to about 120 yards or so is really coming along (around 70-75% driving accuracy). But, what's holding my scoring back is what happens from inside 120 or so yards. My short game distance control is all over the place. Why will adding a wedge or two to my set at that end make my distances any more accurate? In other words, is my lack of consistency due to the skills of someone new to the game or incorrect club gaps?Martin Baker of Peregian Beach, Queensland Australia i still use your old wedges and listened intently to the podcast especially around the grip. I sent a photo of my glove - from the photo you may be able to work out am I holding the club too much in my hand instead of my fingers as you advocate? I was also intrigued by your comments about keeping the grip light on the club - I think this would naturally relax the forearms and therefore give a more relaxed looking swing like the professionals?Follow @golfsmarter on Instagram, X, Facebook, TikTok, YouTube for daily highlights and helpful insights from our interviews on the podcast. We also post articles and video shorts on LinkedIn @FredGreene (from Novato, CA).    Receive three free gifts when you post an honest review about Golf Smarter on your favorite podcast app. Listen for details. This episode is brought to you by the PXG. Upgrade your bag with PXG clubs and take your game to a whole new level. For a limited time, you can save $10 per club. Head over to PXG.com/SMARTER and use code SMARTER to save $10 per club on your order.  This episode is sponsored by Indeed. Please visit indeed.com/GOLFSMARTER and get a $75 SPONSORED JOB CREDIT. Terms and conditions apply.This episode is also brought to you by Waitlist from Wine Access. Visit wineaccess.com/waitlist and use promo code "golfsmarter" for $25 off your first shipment!This episode is brought to you by Timeline Nutrition. Timeline is offering 10% off your first order of Mitopure. Go to timeline.com/GOLFSMARTER.

969: Summary  Jayne Storey returns to discuss her latest book, 'The Athlete's Ascent', which explores the relationship between deep practice and high performance across various sports. She emphasizes the importance of self-awareness, the impact of technology on attention, and the necessity of stillness in achieving optimal performance. Jayne also addresses the challenges of ego in professional athletes and advocates for a daily performance practice that incorporates mindfulness and meditation to enhance athletic performance and overall well-being.TakeawaysThe journey of self-awareness is crucial for athletes.Technology can distract from self-awareness and performance.Stillness is essential for effective movement and performance.Daily performance practice can enhance athletic skills.Ego can hinder growth and learning in professional athletes.Mindfulness and meditation can improve focus and relaxation.The flow state is achieved when the mind is quiet.Intention in movement is more important than overthinking technique.Joy in sports can lead to better performance and satisfaction.Self-awareness leads to relaxation and improved performance.Follow @golfsmarter on Instagram, X, Facebook, TikTok, YouTube for daily highlights and helpful insights from our interviews on the podcast. We also post articles and video shorts on LinkedIn @FredGreene (from Novato, CA).    Receive three free gifts when you post an honest review about Golf Smarter on your favorite podcast app. Listen for details. This episode is brought to you by the PXG. Upgrade your bag with PXG clubs and take your game to a whole new level. For a limited time, you can save $10 per club. Head over to PXG.com/SMARTER and use code SMARTER to save $10 per club on your order.  This episode is sponsored by Indeed. Please visit indeed.com/GOLFSMARTER and get a $75 SPONSORED JOB CREDIT. Terms and conditions apply.This episode is also brought to you by Waitlist from Wine Access. Visit wineaccess.com/waitlist and use promo code "golfsmarter" for $25 off your first shipment!This episode is brought to you by Timeline Nutrition. Timeline is offering 10% off your first order of Mitopure. Go to timeline.com/GOLFSMARTER.

GS#357 November 13, 2012Jaacob Bowden came in 5th at the 2012 Speed Golf World Championships. He joins Fred to discuss Speed Golf, how to train, and how playing at this pace can impact your mental game.         Follow @golfsmarter on Instagram, X, Facebook, TikTok, YouTube for daily highlights and helpful insights from our interviews on the podcast. We also post articles and video shorts on LinkedIn @FredGreene (from Novato, CA).    Receive three free gifts when you post an honest review about Golf Smarter on your favorite podcast app. Listen for details. This episode is brought to you by the PXG. Upgrade your bag with PXG clubs and take your game to a whole new level. For a limited time, you can save $10 per club. Head over to PXG.com/SMARTER and use code SMARTER to save $10 per club on your order.  This episode is sponsored by Indeed. Please visit indeed.com/GOLFSMARTER and get a $75 SPONSORED JOB CREDIT. Terms and conditions apply.This episode is also brought to you by Waitlist from Wine Access. Visit wineaccess.com/waitlist and use promo code "golfsmarter" for $25 off your first shipment!This episode is brought to you by Timeline Nutrition. Timeline is offering 10% off your first order of Mitopure. Go to timeline.com/GOLFSMARTER.