Episode 29: Evan McPherson

SummaryIn this episode of the Golf Life Faith podcast, hosts Jace Barber and Ryan Pollman sit down with NFL kicker Evan McPherson. They discuss Evan's journey from high school to the NFL, the pressures of kicking, and the importance of faith and community in sports. Evan shares his personal testimony, the role of prayer in his life, and how he navigates the mental challenges of being a professional athlete. The conversation also touches on coffee preferences, the significance of accountability, and the importance of enjoying every moment in life and sports.

Join Toby and Jayce as they explore the inspiring journey from college golf to YouTube stardom for Matt Scharff. Discover how passion and perseverance transformed a collegiate athlete into a digital sensation. This episode delves into the challenges faced, the pivotal moments that sparked change, and the strategies that led to online success. We talk about so many highlights of youtube golf, Matt and Maddie's relationship and both of them coming to know the Lord and so much more! Tune in for an insightful conversation filled with personal anecdotes and valuable lessons for aspiring creators and anyone else.

In this episode of the Golf Life Faith podcast, hosts Jayce Barber and Davis Baxter welcome five-time PGA Tour winner Ben Crane. They discuss Ben's journey in golf, his experiences transitioning from college to professional golf, and the importance of faith in his life. The conversation also touches on the fun and unexpected creation of the Golf Boys, a musical collaboration among professional golfers. Throughout the episode, Ben shares valuable insights on mentorship, living with purpose, and trusting God in the face of uncertainty. In this engaging conversation, Ben Crane shares his journey of faith, the joy of believing in the gospel, and the importance of living on mission through golf and ministry. He discusses the impact of discipleship, community, and personal growth, while also sharing heartfelt stories from his experiences. The dialogue emphasizes the significance of being connected to God and encourages listeners to prioritize their relationship with Him. The conversation wraps up with light-hearted rapid-fire questions, revealing Crane's favorite meals and golf courses.

In this episode of the Golf Life Faith podcast, Jayce Barber and Toby Ragland interview Grant Horvat, a talented golfer and content creator. They discuss Grant's impressive academic achievements, his transition from marine biology to business, and his experiences at major golf events like the Waste Management Open. Grant shares his encounters with golf legends Tiger Woods and Phil Mickelson, detailing the nerves and excitement of playing with them. The conversation also delves into Grant's faith journey, the challenges of navigating the YouTube space, and how he maintains his competitive spirit while staying grounded in his Christian values. In this engaging conversation, the hosts, Jayce and Toby, and Grant explore the intersection of faith and golf, discussing personal testimonies, the importance of relationships, and the transformative experiences that come from a deep connection with God. They share insights on the challenges of golf, the impact of finding a godly partner, and the joy of pursuing one's dreams in life and career. The discussion also touches on favorite golf courses and the personalities that could thrive in the world of content creation.

SummaryIn this engaging conversation, Brad, the president of College Golf Fellowship, shares his journey from joining the ministry in 1995 to his current role. He reflects on his early days in Dallas, his love story with Caprice, and the evolution of CGF over the years. Brad discusses the importance of personal connections, the challenges faced by golfers, and the mission of CGF in providing support and discipleship. He emphasizes the significance of understanding one's weaknesses and the impact of faith in personal growth. In this conversation, Jayce and Brad explore the themes of discipleship within the context of competitive golf, emphasizing the importance of community, personal growth, and the deep work required for spiritual maturity. They discuss the evolution of retreats designed for college golfers, highlighting the significance of fellowship and learning from God's Word. The conversation concludes with insights on the importance of reading and continuous learning in leadership and personal development.

SummaryIn this episode of the Golf Life Faith Podcast, hosts Jayce Barber and Toby Ragland are joined by guest Davis Baxter. They share some lighthearted moments and laughter before diving into Davis' story. Davis talks about his college golf experience, his introduction to CGF (College Golf Fellowship), and the impact of the gospel on his life. He also discusses his passion for music and songwriting. One of his favorite songs is about rest and reflects a significant moment in his relationship with his now-wife. Davis Baxter shares his experience of feeling confused and stressed while trying to take control of his life instead of trusting God. He discusses the spiritual significance of a song that helped him find rest and the importance of fully trusting in God. The conversation also includes rapid-fire questions about favorite meals, dream foursomes, and concert choices.

We are back! After taking a break on recording this summer we hit the ground running with the grandson of Truett Cathy (Chick-Fil-A Founder), John White IV. John has become a great friend of CGF and is an unbelievable husband, father, and businessman. This conversation explores the values and principles behind Chick-fil-A and the importance of staying true to one's beliefs. The guest, John White IV, shares his personal experience growing up in the Chick-fil-A family and the impact of their corporate purpose. The conversation also touches on the topic of identity and the daily battle of finding one's true identity in Christ. Additionally, the discussion delves into John's introduction to golf and his son's passion for the game. In this conversation, John shares his experiences as a parent and a business owner, emphasizing the importance of stewarding gifts and finding identity in God rather than in external achievements. He discusses the role of golf in his life and how it has become a way to bond with his children. John also reflects on the lessons he learned through the adoption process and the unconditional love of God. The conversation concludes with a discussion on the significance of Psalm 127 and the importance of understanding the why behind our pursuits.

In this conversation, Toby and Jayce interview Matt Van Zandt, a former staff member of CGF. They discuss Matt's current life, his work in the financial investment world, and his continued involvement in golf. They also delve into Matt's college golf experience, including his time with College Golf Fellowship and winning the national championship in 2009. Matt shares the highs and lows of the tournament and the close bond he had with his teammates. Matt Van Zandt shares his experience working for College Golf Fellowship and transitioning from full-time ministry to the finance world. He emphasizes the importance of controlling spending, saving and investing wisely, and cultivating a spirit of generosity. Matt also discusses his dream golf course and the people he would love to play with.TakeawaysMatt Van Zandt is currently working in the financial investment world and continues to play golf.Matt's college golf experience was shaped by his involvement with College Golf Fellowship and the close bond he had with his teammates.Winning the national championship in 2009 was a highlight of Matt's college golf career, and he cherishes the memories and friendships from that time.The team's unity and support for each other played a significant role in their success.Matt's first and last college golf shots both ended up in the water, creating a unique statistic. Control your spending and practice self-control in managing your finances.Understand the power of compounding interest and start saving and investing early.Develop a spirit of generosity and learn to give, as it is better to give than to receive.Choose a golf course that you've always wanted to play and enjoy the experience.Play with people who have had a significant impact on your life and share a deep connection with them.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Current Life04:31 College Golf Experience and Team Bond09:03 Winning the National Championship14:22 The Power of Team Unity20:40 Joining College Golf Fellowship and the Early Years23:32 Why Matt Chose to Work for College Golf Fellowship26:26 Balancing Work in Finance and Ministry29:17 Financial Advice for College Golfers36:49 Dream Golf Course and Playing Partners

SummaryIn this episode, Toby and Jayce interview William Kane, CGF Staff and host of the Bible Caddie Podcast, who shares his journey from caddying on the PGA Tour to becoming a pastor and staff member of College Golf Fellowship. William discusses the Bible Caddie podcast and their study of Ephesians, emphasizing the importance of engaging with God's Word. He also shares lessons learned from caddying, including the significance of having the right information. William recounts his personal experience of coming to know the Lord and the transformation it brought to his life. He encourages college golfers to prioritize daily engagement with God through His Word, prayer, and Christian fellowship. William highlights the impact of the gospel on golf and life, emphasizing the freedom and joy that come from playing for an audience of one. The episode concludes with discussions on pickleball, basketball, book recommendations, and the favorite Bible chapter to take on a long journey. The conversation explores the idea of choosing a single chapter of the Bible to take to a deserted island. The importance of Romans 8 is discussed, along with the significance of Matthew 27 and John 6. The hosts also share their favorite meal of the day.TakeawaysPrioritize daily engagement with God through His Word, prayer, and Christian fellowship.Understand the significance of having the right information and the impact it can have on one's life.Recognize the transformative power of the gospel and the freedom it brings to every area of life, including golf.Embrace the joy of playing for an audience of one and seek to glorify God in all aspects of life. When asked to choose a single chapter of the Bible, Romans 8 is considered to be of great importance.Matthew 27 and John 6 are mentioned as chapters that provide a variety of teachings and miracles.The hosts share their favorite meal of the day, with dinner being a popular choice.Sound BitesChapters00:00Introduction and Background03:00The Bible Caddy Podcast and Teaching Through Ephesians07:00Lessons from Caddying and the Importance of Having the Right Information12:00Transition from Caddying to Ministry15:00Coming to Know the Lord and the Transformation in Life20:00Discipling College Golfers and the Fundamentals of the Christian Life27:00The Gospel's Impact on Golf and Life34:00Final Thoughts and Encouragement36:00Pickleball and Basketball40:00Book Recommendations and Favorite Bible Chapter40:56Choosing a Chapter of the Bible41:31The Importance of Romans 842:19Matthew 27 and John 643:21Favorite Meal of the Day

SummaryIn this conversation, college golfers David and Maxwell Ford discuss their upbringing in golf, their competitive relationship as twins, their college decisions, and the role of faith in their lives. They share how their father introduced them to golf at a young age and how their competitive nature pushed them to excel in the sport. They also discuss the challenges and blessings of playing college golf and how their faith has shaped their dating relationships. The brothers emphasize the importance of seeking God's kingdom first and finding satisfaction in Him. They also highlight the impact of their Thursday night Zoom call, where they gather with other college golfers to discuss faith and encourage one another. The conversation covers topics such as the Eastlake Cup victory, finding satisfaction in Jesus, aligning golf and faith, the whole duty of man, living life backwards, favorite meals, college golf memories, dream foursomes, dream golf courses, and closing thoughts.TakeawaysCompetitive sibling relationships can be both challenging and beneficial, pushing individuals to excel in their chosen field.Seeking God's kingdom first and finding satisfaction in Him is the key to navigating the challenges of college golf and dating relationships.Regularly reading and studying Scripture is essential for spiritual growth and deepening one's relationship with God.Creating a community of like-minded individuals can provide support, encouragement, and accountability in living out one's faith. Finding satisfaction in Jesus is more important than any worldly success.Aligning golf and faith means recognizing that Jesus is more important than the game.The book of Ecclesiastes reminds us that the fear of God and keeping His commandments is the whole duty of man.Living life backwards means viewing life as a gift rather than a means to gain.Favorite meals, college golf memories, and dream foursomes provide opportunities for fun and camaraderie in the game of golf.Chapters00:00Introduction and Background01:26Growing Up and Getting into Golf03:36Sibling Rivalry and Competition06:23College Decisions09:12Injuries and Faith13:09Pursuing National Championships18:14Dating Relationships and Faith25:52The Importance of Scripture38:06Thursday Night Zoom Call41:42Integrating Faith and Golf44:15The Eastlake Cup Victory46:22Finding Satisfaction in Jesus49:31Aligning Golf and Faith50:18The Whole Duty of Man51:47Living Life Backwards54:22Favorite Meal, College Golf Memory, Dream Foursome55:20Dream Golf Course56:03Closing Thoughts