Lauri Merten - Part 1 (The Early Years)

In the heartfelt conclusion of our four-part conversation with 1993 U.S. Women’s Open champion Lauri Merten, we explore life beyond the ropes and the journey that followed her greatest triumph. With sincerity and introspection, Lauri opens up about the challenges of balancing fame, personal relationships, and the emotional toll of a life in competitive golf.She reflects on the impact of her U.S. Open win—from newfound celebrity to the struggles of maintaining her game and marriage. Lauri shares stories of teeing it up with legends like Jack Nicklaus and Greg Norman, and the unexpected honor of flying on Jack’s private plane after a memorable Three Tour Challenge. She also discusses stepping away from the game at her peak and her transition into a quieter, more creative life as a gardener and decorative painter.We also hear about her emotional return for the inaugural U.S. Senior Women’s Open—dusting off old clubs, finding places to practice, and rediscovering her swing two decades later. Through highs and lows, her enduring love for the game and her authenticity shine through.As we close, Lauri answers our signature final three questions with honesty and grace, sharing what she might have done differently, where she’d take a career mulligan, and how she hopes to be remembered—not just as a major champion, but as someone who cared deeply for others and stayed true to herself.This episode is a powerful reminder that the stories behind the trophies are often the most inspiring of all.🎙️ Listen now to the final chapter of Lauri Merten’s remarkable journey—only on FORE the Good of the Game.Give Bruce & Mike some feedback via Text.Support the showFollow our show and/or leave a review/rating on: Our Website https://www.forethegoodofthegame.com/reviews/new/ Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/fore-the-good-of-the-game/id1562581853 Spotify Podcasts https://open.spotify.com/show/0XSuVGjwQg6bm78COkIhZO?si=b4c9d47ea8b24b2d About "FORE the Good of the Game” is a golf podcast featuring interviews with World Golf Hall of Fame members, winners of major championships and other people of influence in and around the game of golf. Highlighting the positive aspects of the game, we aim to create and provide an engaging and timeless repository of content that listeners can enjoy now and forever. Co-hosted by PGA Tour star Bruce Devlin, our podcast focuses on telling their life stories, in their voices. Join Bruce and Mike Gonzalez “FORE the Good of the Game.” Thanks so much for listening!

In this third installment of our four-part conversation with 1993 U.S. Women’s Open Champion Lauri Merten, we dive headfirst into the emotional and unforgettable week at Crooked Stick that changed her life forever. With raw honesty and captivating detail, Lauri takes us through the rollercoaster of self-doubt, resilience, and unlikely triumph that defined her historic victory.Coming off a missed cut the week prior and wrestling with confidence issues, Lauri describes how a simple shopping trip and a bronze sculpture became her quiet source of inspiration heading into the championship. From early nerves and pep talks from her caddie, Tom Hanson, to clutch birdies and gritty par saves, she walks us through each turning point with vivid recollections—including a dramatic chip-in, a critical bogey save on 11, and her birdie at 16 that sent goosebumps through the gallery.You’ll hear how Lauri navigated the pressure, a weather-delayed final round, and the tension of watching challengers like Donna Andrews and Helen Alfredsson fall just short. She reflects on her mindset, her putting drills that paid off at just the right moment, and the joy—and shock—of hearing the final roar when the final challenger's putt missed the mark.With her trademark humor and humility, Lauri also shares heartfelt moments about her parents, her mixed feelings about a controversial Sports Illustrated article, and her plans to finally share some cherished memorabilia with the USGA.This episode is a tribute to perseverance, belief, and the magic that can unfold when preparation meets opportunity. Don’t miss Lauri’s inside story of one of the most inspiring and underdog victories in U.S. Women’s Open history.Give Bruce & Mike some feedback via Text.Support the showFollow our show and/or leave a review/rating on: Our Website https://www.forethegoodofthegame.com/reviews/new/ Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/fore-the-good-of-the-game/id1562581853 Spotify Podcasts https://open.spotify.com/show/0XSuVGjwQg6bm78COkIhZO?si=b4c9d47ea8b24b2d About "FORE the Good of the Game” is a golf podcast featuring interviews with World Golf Hall of Fame members, winners of major championships and other people of influence in and around the game of golf. Highlighting the positive aspects of the game, we aim to create and provide an engaging and timeless repository of content that listeners can enjoy now and forever. Co-hosted by PGA Tour star Bruce Devlin, our podcast focuses on telling their life stories, in their voices. Join Bruce and Mike Gonzalez “FORE the Good of the Game.” Thanks so much for listening!

In Part 2 of our four-part conversation with 1993 U.S. Women’s Open Champion Lauri Merten, we explore the winding and often challenging road that led her to the LPGA Tour—and her breakthrough victory.Lauri shares her early experiences playing in professional events as a teenager, including a memorable LPGA event at Sun City with her father on the bag and her stunning 67 that made her an overnight leader. From those formative moments, we follow her journey through Q-School heartbreak, international pro-ams in Japan, and the financial support that made chasing her dream possible.Lauri opens up about the pressure-packed nature of LPGA qualifying and the unlikely first win that came in 1983 at the Rail Charity Classic in Springfield, Illinois—where advice from her father, an eagle on 13, and a prayerful putting green moment all played a part in her emotional triumph. She also recounts her second LPGA win in 1984 at the inaugural Jamie Farr Toledo Classic, where she outdueled none other than Nancy Lopez on the final day—on her birthday, no less!With vivid stories involving Pat Bradley, Charles Barkley, and iconic tour stops, Lauri gives listeners a candid and heartfelt look at life on the LPGA Tour during its golden era. Her humor, humility, and competitive fire shine through as she reflects on the people and places that shaped her career.Join us for this inspiring episode as Lauri Merten continues her journey FORE the Good of the Game—sharing stories, wisdom, and memories that golf fans of all generations will treasure.Give Bruce & Mike some feedback via Text.Support the showFollow our show and/or leave a review/rating on: Our Website https://www.forethegoodofthegame.com/reviews/new/ Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/fore-the-good-of-the-game/id1562581853 Spotify Podcasts https://open.spotify.com/show/0XSuVGjwQg6bm78COkIhZO?si=b4c9d47ea8b24b2d About "FORE the Good of the Game” is a golf podcast featuring interviews with World Golf Hall of Fame members, winners of major championships and other people of influence in and around the game of golf. Highlighting the positive aspects of the game, we aim to create and provide an engaging and timeless repository of content that listeners can enjoy now and forever. Co-hosted by PGA Tour star Bruce Devlin, our podcast focuses on telling their life stories, in their voices. Join Bruce and Mike Gonzalez “FORE the Good of the Game.” Thanks so much for listening!

In this first installment of our four-part conversation with 1993 U.S. Women’s Open Champion Lauri Merten, we journey back to where it all began. A self-proclaimed “cheesehead” born in Waukesha, Wisconsin, Lauri shares her early memories of snowy winters, fried cheese curds, and a childhood move to Arizona that would unknowingly set her on the path to major championship glory.Lauri opens up about a childhood shaped not by early athletic success, but by determination, resilience, and a tight-knit family. With heartfelt humor and humility, she recalls her initial forays into sports — including a memorable knee injury during a failed long jump attempt — and how golf became her sanctuary. A set of hand-me-down Patty Berg clubs and a desire to spend time with her father sparked a love for the game that would carry her to the top of women’s golf.Listeners will hear about the summer golf school that transformed Lauri’s outlook, the strict (but loving) influence of her father, and how her shorter left leg created challenges — and ultimately forged a gritty, repeatable game that made her the “Trash Queen” on tour, getting up-and-down from everywhere.Lauri’s authenticity shines as she reflects on meeting Bob and Dolores Hope, playing in celebrity pro-ams, and the powerful women who helped pave her way in the game. Her voice adds an intimate touch to a story that is both deeply personal and inspiring.Join us as we uncover the roots of a U.S. Open champion — a story that’s as much about heart and perseverance as it is about fairways and greens.Give Bruce & Mike some feedback via Text.Support the showFollow our show and/or leave a review/rating on: Our Website https://www.forethegoodofthegame.com/reviews/new/ Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/fore-the-good-of-the-game/id1562581853 Spotify Podcasts https://open.spotify.com/show/0XSuVGjwQg6bm78COkIhZO?si=b4c9d47ea8b24b2d About "FORE the Good of the Game” is a golf podcast featuring interviews with World Golf Hall of Fame members, winners of major championships and other people of influence in and around the game of golf. Highlighting the positive aspects of the game, we aim to create and provide an engaging and timeless repository of content that listeners can enjoy now and forever. Co-hosted by PGA Tour star Bruce Devlin, our podcast focuses on telling their life stories, in their voices. Join Bruce and Mike Gonzalez “FORE the Good of the Game.” Thanks so much for listening!

In the powerful conclusion to our four-part conversation with two-time major champion Jane Geddes, we explore the remarkable evolution of a player who redefined what life after golf can look like. From the fairways to the front office, Jane’s post-playing journey is as bold and fascinating as her competitive career.Jane shares how she pivoted from the LPGA Tour to academia, earning a law degree and quickly transitioning into a leadership role within the LPGA’s executive team. She offers behind-the-scenes insight into her work with commissioners Carolyn Bivens and Mike Whan, including her integral role in bringing golf back to the Olympics and championing gender equity within the sport.But perhaps most surprising is her bold leap into the world of professional wrestling, taking on a high-profile executive role at WWE. Jane recounts the challenges of stepping into a new culture, leading talent relations, and even appearing on the hit reality series Total Divas. Her candor and humor shine as she reflects on those chaotic, unforgettable years.We then follow Jane back into the golf world, where she played key roles in the LPGA Amateur program and the Legends Tour, always striving to create meaningful opportunities for women in the game. Jane closes the episode with reflections on legacy, purpose, and the life lessons she’s learned both inside and outside the ropes.This finale is a testament to resilience, reinvention, and the enduring spirit of a true champion. Jane Geddes’ journey is not only unique in the world of professional golf—it’s one that continues to inspire.🎙️ FORE the Good of the Game is proud to preserve and share the stories of golf’s most influential figures. Subscribe and join us on the journey through the game's rich history and timeless personalities.Give Bruce & Mike some feedback via Text.Support the showFollow our show and/or leave a review/rating on: Our Website https://www.forethegoodofthegame.com/reviews/new/ Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/fore-the-good-of-the-game/id1562581853 Spotify Podcasts https://open.spotify.com/show/0XSuVGjwQg6bm78COkIhZO?si=b4c9d47ea8b24b2d About "FORE the Good of the Game” is a golf podcast featuring interviews with World Golf Hall of Fame members, winners of major championships and other people of influence in and around the game of golf. Highlighting the positive aspects of the game, we aim to create and provide an engaging and timeless repository of content that listeners can enjoy now and forever. Co-hosted by PGA Tour star Bruce Devlin, our podcast focuses on telling their life stories, in their voices. Join Bruce and Mike Gonzalez “FORE the Good of the Game.” Thanks so much for listening!

In Part 3 of our captivating four-part conversation with 11-time winner on the LPGA Tour Jane Geddes, we follow her remarkable journey through one of the most successful and adventurous stretches of her LPGA career. With honesty and humor, Jane reflects on the realities of life on tour—moments of quiet solitude after victory, the grind of relentless travel, and the friendships that made it all worthwhile.Jane shares unforgettable stories from her international triumphs, including wins in Australia, Japan, and Jamaica. From late-night karaoke, impromptu toga parties and crazy bus rides in Japan to becoming a fan favorite on Australian television, her vivid recollections offer a behind-the-scenes look at the camaraderie and chaos that shaped an era. We also revisit her 1989 Women’s British Open win—before it was recognized as a major—and how the evolving landscape of women’s golf continues to impact Hall of Fame criteria.Throughout this episode, Jane discusses the nuances of playing firm and fast golf overseas, her playoff mindset, and her preference for challenging courses where par is a good score. We dive into her hot streak in the early ’90s, her close call with Karrie Webb in a marathon playoff, and the joy of representing the U.S. in the 1996 Solheim Cup—the first American team to win on foreign soil.With trademark humility and warmth, Jane offers a unique window into a globetrotting career filled with trophies, lessons, and laughter. Whether you're a fan of golf history or simply love a good story, this episode is not to be missed.Listen now as Jane Geddes continues her inspiring and entertaining journey, "FORE the Good of the Game."Give Bruce & Mike some feedback via Text.Support the showFollow our show and/or leave a review/rating on: Our Website https://www.forethegoodofthegame.com/reviews/new/ Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/fore-the-good-of-the-game/id1562581853 Spotify Podcasts https://open.spotify.com/show/0XSuVGjwQg6bm78COkIhZO?si=b4c9d47ea8b24b2d About "FORE the Good of the Game” is a golf podcast featuring interviews with World Golf Hall of Fame members, winners of major championships and other people of influence in and around the game of golf. Highlighting the positive aspects of the game, we aim to create and provide an engaging and timeless repository of content that listeners can enjoy now and forever. Co-hosted by PGA Tour star Bruce Devlin, our podcast focuses on telling their life stories, in their voices. Join Bruce and Mike Gonzalez “FORE the Good of the Game.” Thanks so much for listening!

In Part 2 of our four-part conversation with two-time major champion Jane Geddes, we dive into the incredible early successes that vaulted her onto the LPGA stage—and into the record books. Jane takes us back to 1986, when she burst onto the scene with a stunning victory at the U.S. Women’s Open at NCR Country Club. With humility and humor, Jane recounts her mindset heading into the championship, including the surreal feeling of playing in a “bubble,” her unmatched confidence in her swing, and how that week’s chaotic backdrop of tornado warnings, evacuations, and even an earthquake couldn’t shake her focus.Jane’s story doesn’t stop with that first major. She followed up her U.S. Open triumph by winning again the very next week—kicking off a remarkable 12-month stretch that saw her notch seven victories, including her second major at the 1987 LPGA Championship. We relive her playoff win over the legendary Sally Little, her bold media remarks that nearly backfired, and her steely resolve to back up her words with her clubs.Jane’s insights into her game—how she thrived on tough courses, loved playing in the wind, and used her strengths in ball-striking and confidence to outlast her peers—offer a compelling look at what it takes to break through at the highest level. With stories of competing against Hall of Famers like Betsy King, Nancy Lopez, and Patty Sheehan, this episode paints a vivid picture of one of the LPGA’s most competitive eras.Join us as Jane reflects on the whirlwind of success, the challenges of sustaining momentum, and the joy of knowing—if only for a time—what it feels like to truly be in the zone.Give Bruce & Mike some feedback via Text.Support the showFollow our show and/or leave a review/rating on: Our Website https://www.forethegoodofthegame.com/reviews/new/ Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/fore-the-good-of-the-game/id1562581853 Spotify Podcasts https://open.spotify.com/show/0XSuVGjwQg6bm78COkIhZO?si=b4c9d47ea8b24b2d About "FORE the Good of the Game” is a golf podcast featuring interviews with World Golf Hall of Fame members, winners of major championships and other people of influence in and around the game of golf. Highlighting the positive aspects of the game, we aim to create and provide an engaging and timeless repository of content that listeners can enjoy now and forever. Co-hosted by PGA Tour star Bruce Devlin, our podcast focuses on telling their life stories, in their voices. Join Bruce and Mike Gonzalez “FORE the Good of the Game.” Thanks so much for listening!

In this first installment of our four-part conversation with two-time major champion Jane Geddes, FORE the Good of the Game co-hosts Mike Gonzalez and Bruce Devlin take listeners on a journey back to Jane’s unlikely beginnings in golf—and what a story it is.Born and raised on Long Island, Jane Geddes never set foot on a golf course until the age of 15. A move to Summerville, South Carolina left her feeling like an outsider—until a chance introduction to the game changed her life forever. With no prior experience, no clubs of her own, and no country club pedigree, Jane’s golf journey began with a single seven-iron and a generous teaching pro, Derek Hardy, who saw something special in her swing from day one.Jane reflects with honesty and humor on the cultural shock of moving to the South, the loneliness of high school, and how golf became her unexpected refuge. From shag bags and Walmart clubs to developing her game on a neighborhood driving range, this is a raw and inspiring look at how talent, curiosity, and a bit of fate launched one of the great careers in women’s golf.You’ll hear how she went from a complete unknown to walking onto the Florida State team, and how pivotal influences—including Derek Hardy, Dave Pelz, Jim McLean, and Dr. Bob Rotella—shaped her game and mindset.This episode offers a rare glimpse into the humble and heartfelt beginnings of a future major champion. Jane’s story is proof that greatness can come from the unlikeliest of places.Subscribe and stay tuned—Jane’s journey is just getting started, "FORE the Good of the Game."Give Bruce & Mike some feedback via Text.Support the showFollow our show and/or leave a review/rating on: Our Website https://www.forethegoodofthegame.com/reviews/new/ Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/fore-the-good-of-the-game/id1562581853 Spotify Podcasts https://open.spotify.com/show/0XSuVGjwQg6bm78COkIhZO?si=b4c9d47ea8b24b2d About "FORE the Good of the Game” is a golf podcast featuring interviews with World Golf Hall of Fame members, winners of major championships and other people of influence in and around the game of golf. Highlighting the positive aspects of the game, we aim to create and provide an engaging and timeless repository of content that listeners can enjoy now and forever. Co-hosted by PGA Tour star Bruce Devlin, our podcast focuses on telling their life stories, in their voices. Join Bruce and Mike Gonzalez “FORE the Good of the Game.” Thanks so much for listening!

In the final chapter of our four-part conversation with Lorena Ochoa, the legendary 2-time major champion and World Golf Hall of Fame member reflects on the pinnacle of her career and the transition into life beyond professional golf.Lorena takes us back to her dominant years on the LPGA Tour, including her unforgettable 2007 Women's British Open victory at the Old Course at St. Andrews and her emotional triumph at Mission Hills, where she famously leaped into Poppie’s Pond after winning the 2008 Kraft Nabisco Championship. With eight wins in 2007 and seven more in 2008, she shares how it felt to be at the peak of her game, playing with confidence, joy, and purpose.But as much as golf shaped her life, Lorena’s true passion was always giving back. She opens up about the decision to retire at age 28, stepping away as the world’s No. 1 player to focus on family and philanthropy. She dives into the incredible impact of the Lorena Ochoa Foundation, which has provided education and opportunities to thousands of underprivileged children in Mexico.In a heartfelt conclusion, Lorena shares the life lessons she’s learned, the one mulligan she’d take, and how she hopes to be remembered—not just as a champion golfer, but as someone who made a difference beyond the course.Join us for an inspiring episode as we celebrate the career and legacy of one of golf’s greatest ambassadors, Lorena Ochoa, "FORE the Good of the Game."Give Bruce & Mike some feedback via Text.Support the showFollow our show and/or leave a review/rating on: Our Website https://www.forethegoodofthegame.com/reviews/new/ Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/fore-the-good-of-the-game/id1562581853 Spotify Podcasts https://open.spotify.com/show/0XSuVGjwQg6bm78COkIhZO?si=b4c9d47ea8b24b2d About "FORE the Good of the Game” is a golf podcast featuring interviews with World Golf Hall of Fame members, winners of major championships and other people of influence in and around the game of golf. Highlighting the positive aspects of the game, we aim to create and provide an engaging and timeless repository of content that listeners can enjoy now and forever. Co-hosted by PGA Tour star Bruce Devlin, our podcast focuses on telling their life stories, in their voices. Join Bruce and Mike Gonzalez “FORE the Good of the Game.” Thanks so much for listening!

In this third installment of our four-part series with World Golf Hall of Fame member and two-time major champion Lorena Ochoa, we dive into the defining moments that cemented her legacy as one of the greatest golfers of all time.Lorena takes us back to her early years on the LPGA Tour, from the challenges of her rookie season to the pivotal mental and physical adjustments that led to her first victories. She shares the pressure of proving herself among the sport’s elite, including Annika Sörenstam, and how she overcame early heartbreaks to emerge as a dominant force.We revisit her breakthrough win at the 2006 Samsung World Championship, a moment when Lorena finally realized she could beat the best on the biggest stage. She also reflects on her victories in Mexico and the immense pride she felt in bringing the LPGA Tour to her home country, inspiring a new generation of Mexican golfers.Beyond her on-course triumphs, Lorena opens up about the personal commitments that guided her career, including the early promise she made to herself to step away from the game at her peak and her unwavering dedication to her foundation. She discusses the balance between competition and life outside of golf, the mental toll of professional sports, and the lessons learned from playing alongside legends like Juli Inkster and Betsy King.Join us for another captivating episode as we explore Lorena Ochoa’s road to dominance, her mindset as a champion, and the sacrifices behind her success, "FORE the Good of the Game."Give Bruce & Mike some feedback via Text.Support the showFollow our show and/or leave a review/rating on: Our Website https://www.forethegoodofthegame.com/reviews/new/ Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/fore-the-good-of-the-game/id1562581853 Spotify Podcasts https://open.spotify.com/show/0XSuVGjwQg6bm78COkIhZO?si=b4c9d47ea8b24b2d About "FORE the Good of the Game” is a golf podcast featuring interviews with World Golf Hall of Fame members, winners of major championships and other people of influence in and around the game of golf. Highlighting the positive aspects of the game, we aim to create and provide an engaging and timeless repository of content that listeners can enjoy now and forever. Co-hosted by PGA Tour star Bruce Devlin, our podcast focuses on telling their life stories, in their voices. Join Bruce and Mike Gonzalez “FORE the Good of the Game.” Thanks so much for listening!