Malbon Signs Fred Couples with Stephen Malbon

In this episode of Course Café presented by ‪Amazon‬, Raymond sits down with Municipal CEO Harry Arnett to unpack what it really takes to build a brand that resonates in today’s game, from the early days of limitless ideas to the discipline required to grow with clarity and intention. The conversation explores the evolution of Municipal, the challenges of designing performance driven footwear like the Sportcross ATG, and how product, identity, and innovation come together to shape a modern sport utility brand. They also dive into how discovery has changed across retail, social, and platforms like Amazon, and what it means to build credibility and connection with consumers in a more accessible landscape. It is a thoughtful look at growth, product, and the future of golf style through one of the most ambitious brands in the space.

In this episode of Course Café presented by Amazon⁩, Raymond sits down with Olajuwon Ajanaku and Earl Cooper, the founders of Eastside Golf, for a conversation that goes far beyond product, diving into the emotional weight of building a brand, the pressure that comes with growth, and the realities people do not see from the outside, from early sacrifices and uncertainty to moments where it became clear this was bigger than just them, all while exploring how accessibility is shaping the future of golf and why it matters that more people can discover and connect with the brand in their everyday lives. And you can now shop Eastside Golf on Amazon by visiting amazon.com/golf where the full lineup is available in one place, plus for a limited time get 15 percent off by adding your favorites to cart and using code ESG26 at checkout valid through April 15th 2026.

I caught up with Stephen Malbon at a moment when the brand was moving fast but one decision stood out above the rest. Malbon signing Fred Couples. Not a new shiny name. Not a trend play. A legend whose presence reshapes the conversation without raising his voice. In this episode, Stephen walks me through how the relationship actually started. We talk about why Fred was hesitant at first, how Malbon’s deeper product catalog changed that, and what it means to welcome one of golf’s most effortless icons into a brand often labeled as disruptive or polarizing.

On today’s episode, we step inside the Sugarloaf Social Club with Ian Gilley, the creative engine behind one of golf’s most beloved brands. We explore how Sugarloaf draws inspiration from old Getty photos, '90s silhouettes, vintage major merchandise, and quirky eBay finds to create a modern aesthetic that feels familiar yet new.Ian breaks down the hunt for archival references, the mad-science process of turning nostalgia into a functional product, and how Sugarloaf balances vintage energy with performance fabrics that actually work on the course today. If you’re into golf style, brand building, or anything that blends old-school references with modern taste, welcome to the club.

In this episode, Raymond sat down with Tony Knapton from Radry, an artist, designer, and creative whose work lives somewhere between golf, pop culture, and nostalgia. They talk about how his Midwestern roots and background in graphic design shaped the brand, the balance between art and entrepreneurship, and why the ‘90s continue to inspire a new generation of golfers and creators. Tony opens up about the story behind White Dot Market, the evolution of Radry, and how he’s finding new ways to reimagine pop culture moments through the lens of golf.

In this episode, I sit down with Ryan Engle, founder of Nation Golf, a brand rooted in tradition, authenticity, and the kind of style that never goes out of fashion. We talk about the Nation Desert Classic, the annual gathering in Indian Wells that started it all, and how the spirit of Ryan’s grandfather’s scrambles in the 1970s became the blueprint for Nation’s identity today. From surfboard shaping in Dana Point to crafting period-correct polos in California, Ryan shares how Nation Golf became a living time capsule

In this episode of Course Café, we sit down with Cáje Moye, Senior Creative Director for apparel and accessories at Sun Day Red, the brand redefining what premium golf apparel looks and feels like. Cáje takes us inside the design process, Tiger’s direct influence on product development, and what it’s really like building one of the most fascinating brands in golf over the last two years. From early samples to the rebirth of Tiger’s 1992 polo, we unpack how Sun Day Red balances nostalgia, innovation, and performance at the highest level.

This week on Course Café, Raymond sits down with Mike Belgue, Brand Director at Reigning Champ, to talk about what makes a brand truly timeless. From the foundation of quality and craftsmanship to the evolution of visual identity and storytelling, Mike shares how Reigning Champ continues to move through sport with purpose, balancing restraint, refinement, and quiet confidence.

This week on Course Café, Raymond sits down with Roger Steele, creator, father, and one of the most influential voices shaping modern golf culture. They discuss balancing fatherhood with a life deeply rooted in the game, exploring how Roger manages to stay grounded amid the chaos, and his evolving vision with Lululemon Golf. The conversation digs into what it means to build something sustainable in this new era of golf, not just for brands, but for people, purpose, and legacy.

In this mini episode, Raymond catches up with Andrew Haynes, VP and Executive Creative Director at Fairgame. The two dive into the creative side of golf — from design philosophies and brand storytelling to what makes certain brands feel so enjoyable and authentic. Andrew also shares what Fairgame has been working on lately, offering a glimpse into how they’re shaping the culture and community around the modern game.