Episode 170: Golf Course Etiquette - Where Did It Go?

May 7th, 2026  |  1 hr 2 mins

bauder media group, canada, eastern ontario, flagstick.com, golf, ottawa, ottawa valley, podcast, sports, western quebec

This episode focuses on the idea of respect in golf - how it shows up, and where it may be slipping. The discussion explores a perceived decline in respect at golf courses, whether toward the course itself, player behaviour during rounds, or interactions with staff.

The conversation highlights key areas where this issue is emerging and considers why it may be happening at a time when the game is experiencing growth. What does disrespect look like in a golf setting? Is it learned behaviour, a reflection of broader societal trends, or part of the game’s evolution?

The episode also examines why respect remains an essential part of golf and how the sport can foster a stronger culture around it. Overall, it’s a multi-faceted discussion aimed at prompting reflection on the future of golf - and what players and stakeholders want that future to look like.

This episode is presented by GolfPEI, with additional support from Metcalfe Golf and Falcon Ridge Golf Club.

Music by: https://www.bensound.com/free-music-for-videos
License certificate #: 2227748

Episode 169: Opening & Closing Golf Holes - Their Impact

April 29th, 2026  |  1 hr 11 mins

bauder media group, canada, eastern ontario, flagstick.com, golf, ottawa, ottawa valley, podcast, sports, western quebec

The "opening handshake" and "closing argument" of a golf course serve as the essential narrative bookends that define a player's entire experience. In this episode, we dive into the "opening and closing hole equation" to understand why these specific moments play such a pivotal role in shaping how a course is perceived and how it functions.

We examine this premise through the lenses of architecture, aesthetics, functionality, and psychology, considering the impact not just on elite players, but on the average golfer and the course as a business. Along the way, we share some of our personal favorites—and a few that miss the mark—explaining exactly what makes them succeed or fail.

It is an engaging discussion that provides plenty of fodder for anyone who wants to debate the topic with their own playing partners.

This episode is presented by GolfPEI, with additional support from Metcalfe Golf and Falcon Ridge Golf Club.

Music by: https://www.bensound.com/free-music-for-videos
License certificate #: 2227748

Episode 168: Golf - The Team Game?

April 23rd, 2026  |  1 hr 2 mins

bauder media group, canada, eastern ontario, flagstick.com, golf, ottawa, ottawa valley, podcast, sports, western quebec

Golf is famously known as a solitary pursuit—a relentless internal monologue between you, your clubs, and the course. But with the Zurich Classic taking center stage on the PGA TOUR this week, we’re shifting the focus from the individual to the collective.

In this episode, we dive deep into why the "team game" is becoming the most compelling way to experience golf, from the high-stakes drama of the Ryder Cup and Solheim Cup to the fun of a weekend RBC Scramble or your local club’s amateur events.

On This Episode’s Scorecard:
The Front 9: Breaking Down the Formats New to the team dynamic? We provide a primer on the "games within the game," explaining the mechanics and psychology behind Scrambles, Best Ball, Foursomes, and Greensomes.

The Pressure Profile - Is it actually easier when you have a partner? We discuss the "Don't Let Them Down" factor, the weight of the "Putt for the Half," and the strategic freedom of "Hero Golf."

The Social Safety Net - How team golf acts as the ultimate equalizer, lowering the barrier for beginners and turning quiet concentration into high-five moments and collaborative strategy.

The Back 9: Culture & Community From the intensity of Intersectionals and PING Challenge Cups to the rise of social media collaborations like "Break 50" challenges, we look at how the team environment is shaping the future of the sport.

Episode presented by GolfPEI, with show support by Metcalfe Golf and Falcon Ridge Golf Club.

Music by: https://www.bensound.com/free-music-for-videos
License certificate #: 2227748

Episode 167: One Ball To Rule Them All?

April 16th, 2026  |  1 hr 12 mins

bauder media group, canada, eastern ontario, flagstick.com, golf, ottawa, ottawa valley, podcast, sports, western quebec

The 2026 Masters is in the books, and the echoes from Augusta National are about more than just the Green Jacket. This week, we dive into a historic week where Rory McIlroy solidified his legacy with a repeat performance, but the conversation off the green was just as loud as the roars on Sunday.

The Front 9: We kick things off with a look at the current state of the game—from the frustrating spring weather keeping local courses closed to our perspective of the 2026 Masters. Rory has done it again, but what does his dominance say about the modern game?

The Back 9: We tackle the most polarizing topic in golf: The Ball Rollback. With the USGA and R&A eyeing a unified 2030 implementation, we break down the "Distance Problem" from every angle.

The Legends Speak: We dissect "The Titanic" analogy from Jack Nicklaus and Gary Player’s scathing "60-yard tragedy" comments. Are they right about the death of the Par-5?

The "One Ball" Theory: Why doesn't golf follow the lead of the NHL or NBA? We discuss the radical idea of a standardized Tour ball versus the "One Game" ethos.

The Physics of Speed: We look at biomechanist Sasho MacKenzie’s warning—will rolling back the ball simply trigger an "explosion" in clubhead speeds, leaving anyone who can’t swing 140 mph in the dust?

The Amateur Impact: Is the "Short term pain for long term gain" worth it for the weekend warrior who already struggles with distance?

Whether it’s the sustainability of historic courses or the "bomb and gouge" era of pro golf, we’re asking the hard questions about the future of the sport.

Episode presented by GolfPEI, with show support by Metcalfe Golf and Falcon Ridge Golf Club.

Music by: https://www.bensound.com/free-music-for-videos
License certificate #: 2227748

Episode 166: Welcome To The Masters 2026

April 8th, 2026  |  1 hr 14 mins

bauder media group, canada, eastern ontario, flagstick.com, golf, ottawa, ottawa valley, podcast, sports, western quebec

Welcome to a special edition of the show as we gear up for the 90th edition of The Masters. In this episode, we dive deep into the hallowed grounds of Augusta National, exploring why this tournament holds a "mystical" status unlike any other major in golf. From the pimento cheese sandwiches to the strictly enforced "patron" etiquette, we break down the unique culture that defines the first full week of April.

The Front 9: Why Augusta is Different
We kick things off with a look at the structural and cultural pillars that separate The Masters from the U.S. Open, the Open Championship, and the PGA Championship.

The Permanent Home: Why the familiarity of "Amen Corner" makes viewers feel like they’re in their own backyards.

The Time Capsule: Discussing the deliberate "affordability" of the concessions and the refreshing lack of corporate signage.

The "Masters Roar": The impact of the strict no-phone policy and how it creates a pure, undistracted atmosphere.

The Back 9: Nuggets from the 2026 Media Guide
After the break, we dig into the massive 492-page 2026 Masters Media Guide to bring you the stats and storylines you need to watch as the tournament unfolds.

The Defending Champ: Rory McIlroy returns as the defending champion, looking to join the elite ranks of back-to-back winners after completing his career Grand Slam here last year.

The Dominant Force: Scottie Scheffler arrives seeking his third Green Jacket, carrying a staggering record of top-20 finishes in every Augusta appearance.

Fresh Blood & Dark Horses: From Cameron Young trying to sweep THE PLAYERS and The Masters, to Jacob Bridgeman making his debut as the current FedExCup points leader.

Episode presented by GolfPEI, with show support by Metcalfe Golf and Falcon Ridge Golf Club.

Music by: https://www.bensound.com/free-music-for-videos
License certificate #: 2227748

Episode 165: Early Masters Preview: The Roars Return

April 2nd, 2026  |  1 hr 9 mins

bauder media group, canada, eastern ontario, flagstick.com, golf, ottawa, ottawa valley, podcast, sports, western quebec

The azaleas are blooming, the pimento cheese is being prepped, and the most prestigious week in golf is finally upon us. In this episode of the podcast, Jeff and Scott tackle the 2026 Masters, getting the hype train started a week early. We’re covering everything from the historic "charges" of the past to the high-stakes storylines of the present.

On This Week's Show:
The Legends of Augusta: We look back at two of the most polar-opposite Sundays in Masters history—Jack Nicklaus’s miraculous 1986 charge and Greg Norman’s heartbreaking 1996 collapse.

A New Era of Amateurs: We highlight the Canadians and rising stars competing in the Augusta National Women’s Amateur and the Drive, Chip & Putt, including ones to watch like Vanessa Borovilos and Aphrodite Deng.

The 2026 Contenders: Can Rory McIlroy go back-to-back and defend his hard-earned Green Jacket? Will Scottie Scheffler’s "dad strength" lead him to a third title?

The LIV Factor: Bryson DeChambeau and Jon Rahm are arriving in peak form—can they reclaim the top spot for the LIV contingent?

The Canadian Contingent: We break down the chances for Corey Conners, Nick Taylor, and the legendary Mike Weir.

Episode presented by GolfPEI, with show support by Metcalfe Golf and Falcon Ridge Golf Club.

Music by: https://www.bensound.com/free-music-for-videos
License certificate #: 2227748

Episode 164: Golf Equipment Time Machine & PGA TOUR's Toughest Tests

March 26th, 2026  |  1 hr 5 mins

bauder media group, canada, eastern ontario, flagstick.com, golf, ottawa, ottawa valley, podcast, sports, western quebec

Dust off the headcovers and tighten your chin straps—this week, we’re traveling from the bargain bin to the "Bear Trap."

Following a nostalgic visit to an old-school golf shop, Jeff and Scott take a trip down memory lane to discuss the "Golden Era" of golf equipment. From the legendary PING Eye2s and Ben Hogan Persimmons to the "duds" and defunct brands like Nickent and Founders Club, we discuss the golf clubs that have left a lasting impression on us.

Then, we shift from the gear to the grounds. Inspired by the grueling conditions at the Valspar Invitational, we break down the most difficult courses on the PGA TOUR. Why do the world’s best struggle at Bay Hill? What makes TPC Sawgrass so memorable? We explore the "Green Miles," "Snake Pits," and "Bear Traps" that turn pro golfers into mere mortals.

Episode presented by GolfPEI, with show support by Metcalfe Golf and Falcon Ridge Golf Club.

Music by: https://www.bensound.com/free-music-for-videos
License certificate #: 2227748

Episode 163: The Players Championship - Prestige & Peril

March 12th, 2026  |  52 mins 18 secs

bauder media group, canada, eastern ontario, flagstick.com, golf, ottawa, ottawa valley, podcast, sports, western quebec

Is it a major? Does it even matter? This week, we dive deep into the crown jewel of the PGA Tour: The Players Championship. Hosted at the unforgiving TPC Sawgrass, this tournament is more than just a massive paycheck—it’s a career-defining gauntlet that the world’s best players crave and fear in equal measure.

In this episode, we trace the tournament's evolution from its 1974 debut to its status as the most prestigious non-major in golf. We explore the architectural genius (and occasional "cruelty") of Pete Dye’s Stadium Course and break down why the 17th hole Island Green remains the most nerve-wracking 137 yards in the sport.

What we cover in this episode:

The History & Vision: How former Commissioner Deane Beman turned 415 acres of Florida swampland (purchased for just $1!) into a "Stadium" for the fans.

The "Fifth Major" Debate: Why the strength of the field often surpasses the traditional majors and where the tournament sits in golf's hierarchy in 2026.

The Gauntlet of TPC Sawgrass: A look at the "balanced" design that refuses to favor any single style of play—from the bombers to the precision specialists.

Iconic Moments: From Tiger Woods’ "Better than Most" putt to Rickie Fowler’s historic 2015 finish and Rory McIlroy’s gritty 2025 playoff victory.

Whether you're a scratch golfer or just in it for the Sunday afternoon drama, join us as we break down why "The Players" is the purest test in professional golf.

Episode presented by GolfPEI, with show support by Metcalfe Golf and Falcon Ridge Golf Club.

Music by: https://www.bensound.com/free-music-for-videos
License certificate #: 2227748

Episode 162: March Mailbag - Answering Your Questions

March 5th, 2026  |  1 hr 12 mins

bauder media group, canada, eastern ontario, flagstick.com, golf, ottawa, ottawa valley, podcast, sports, western quebec

Outdoor golf season is almost here, and this episode is packed with the kinds of questions only golfers ask when they can finally see grass again. The hosts kick things off by catching up on the local scene, including a sold-out 2026 Flagstick Open, before diving headfirst into a wide-ranging Front Nine fueled by listener curiosity and plenty of strong opinions.

The conversation spans everything from modern tech and equipment trends—zero-torque putters, mini drivers, spiked vs. spikeless shoes, and the rise of simulators—to timeless debates about pace of play, gimmes, and the cheapest ways to shave strokes without buying new clubs. The panel also zooms out to the pro game, debating what “winning” even means at this stage of Tiger Woods’s career, naming dark horses for the Masters Tournament, and discussing whether the pressure is higher or lower now that Rory McIlroy has completed the Grand Slam. With Scottie Scheffler’s current form also under the microscope, the Masters hype is fully engaged.

After the turn, the Back Nine keeps things rolling with bigger-picture questions about the future of the game. The hosts tackle LIV vs. PGA TOUR optics, Signature Events, old-school equipment nostalgia, acceptable round length in 2026, and whether launch monitors on the range are helpful or flat-out cheating. There’s also candid discussion about the growth ceiling of golf on YouTube, and whether golf courses lose their soul when walking isn’t allowed.

The episode wraps with a personal reflection on what it means to spend a lifetime in the game without falling out of love with it. Equal parts insight, debate, and self-deprecating humor, it’s a classic golf-nerd roundtable that feels right on time as the season gets ready to tee off.

Episode presented by GolfPEI, with show support by Metcalfe Golf and Falcon Ridge Golf Club.

Music by: https://www.bensound.com/free-music-for-videos
License certificate #: 2227748

Episode 161: 30 Years of Flagstick "Looking Back"

February 24th, 2026  |  1 hr 13 mins

bauder media group, canada, eastern ontario, flagstick.com, golf, ottawa, ottawa valley, podcast, sports, western quebec

As Flagstick approaches its official 30th Anniversary this May, we look back to where it all began—30 years ago at the Ottawa-Gatineau Golf Expo, when Jeff first revealed plans for a regional golf publication that didn’t yet exist. In this special episode, Scott interviews Jeff about the leap from working in media to launching his own magazine, the risks of exhibiting without a product, and why Flagstick chose a regional focus that would eventually make it one of Canada’s longest-standing golf media companies.

Jeff reflects on the early challenges of print publishing, learning new skills out of necessity, building relationships across the region, and navigating the shift from seasonal print to digital media.

On the Back Nine, the conversation explores Flagstick’s expansion into tournaments, partnerships with PGA of Ottawa, Ottawa Valley Golf Association, and Golf Ontario, and its evolution into digital publishing, consulting, photography, newsletters, and podcasting.

From surviving the pandemic to earning industry recognition and Hall of Fame honours, this episode reflects on how golf—and Flagstick—have changed from 1996 to 2026, and why the passion for the game remains as strong as ever.

Episode presented by GolfPEI, with show support by Metcalfe Golf and Falcon Ridge Golf Club.

Music by: https://www.bensound.com/free-music-for-videos
License certificate #: 2227748

Episode 160: Birdies & Blades - Developing A Junior Athlete

February 19th, 2026  |  1 hr 11 mins

bauder media group, canada, eastern ontario, flagstick.com, golf, ottawa, ottawa valley, podcast, sports, western quebec

This week, we take a different path.

Instead of breaking down tour storylines and leaderboard drama, we shift the focus to something that matters far beyond a single season — junior athlete development.

As parents and coaches involved in both golf and hockey, we’ve seen firsthand how the principles that shape young athletes on the links and in the rinks are remarkably similar. Drawing from our own experiences — certifications, coaching backgrounds, and years in competitive environments — we explore what actually helps kids build a healthy, lasting relationship with sport.

Inspired by comments from Tiger Woods about growing up with his dad — “It was always competitive, and it was always fun” — we unpack two critical elements of development: competition and enjoyment. Can they coexist? Should they? And how do we get the balance right?

We dig into:

Why physical literacy and multi-sport participation build better long-term athletes

The Long-Term Athlete Development (LTAD) framework and why biological age matters more than birth year

The risks of early specialization

The powerful dynamic between athlete, coach, and parent.

This conversation isn’t about raising the next tour player or NHL star. It’s about raising resilient, confident young people who love to compete — and who love the game.

Because when it’s competitive and fun, kids don’t just perform better.

They stay.

Episode presented by GolfPEI, with show support by Metcalfe Golf and Falcon Ridge Golf Club.

Music by: https://www.bensound.com/free-music-for-videos
License certificate #: 2227748

Episode 159: Golf's Heroes & Villains

February 12th, 2026  |  1 hr 10 mins

bauder media group, canada, eastern ontario, flagstick.com, golf, ottawa, ottawa valley, podcast, sports, western quebec

Balancing a look at current circumstances with a nod to the past, in this episode we examine how our own values, desires, and biases shape our perception of professional golfers—and the “characters” they inhabit within the sport’s unfolding drama.

While we naturally gravitate toward milestones like Rory McIlroy’s quest for the Career Grand Slam or Scottie Scheffler’s era of dominance, the ongoing rift between the PGA Tour and LIV Golf has fundamentally redefined player reputations.

From “villains” like the defiant Patrick Reed and the polarizing Bryson DeChambeau to “heroes” like the relatable Jordan Spieth, these archetypes serve as mirrors for our own frustrations.

Ultimately, we explore whether the modern era is defined by the leaderboard or by the clash of personalities—asking if a player is a “fallen hero” like Phil Mickelson or a “reluctant king” like Scheffler.

Music by: https://www.bensound.com/free-music-for-videos
License certificate #: 2227748

Episode 158: Tiger Woods Equipment Eras, Justin Rose, and Player/Caddy Relationships

February 5th, 2026  |  1 hr 6 mins

bauder media group, canada, eastern ontario, flagstick.com, golf, ottawa, ottawa valley, podcast, sports, western quebec

This episode of the podcast opens with an engaging “Front Nine” discussion tackling several timely topics in the game. Jeff and Scott explore why a player like Justin Rose can still compete—and even excel—at age 45, highlighting how golf is one of the rare sports where experience, patience, and mental composure can outweigh raw athleticism. They also reflect on the end of an era for the Henderson sisters, examining what it takes to sustain a successful player–caddie relationship over the course of a decade. The segment concludes with thoughtful commentary on how golf clubs are adapting to survive, increasingly positioning themselves as year-round community hubs by adding amenities like fitness facilities and even chess leagues—though some may be losing sight of their most important asset: the golf course itself.

On the “Back Nine,” the conversation shifts to an in-depth look at Tiger Woods’ golf bag. It’s a fascinating study of one of the most meticulous players the game has ever seen. Despite cycling through major equipment sponsors—from Titleist to Nike to TaylorMade—over the past 30 years, Tiger’s club specifications have remained remarkably consistent.

The hosts trace his equipment evolution from the Mizuno and Titleist days of the “Tiger Slam” through to his current TaylorMade setup in 2026. The key takeaway is Tiger’s unwavering loyalty to what works. He’s still carrying a 5-wood from 2018 because he trusts its ball flight, and he continues to use the same classic Ping putter grip he’s relied on since childhood. It’s a powerful reminder that at the highest level, feel and consistency usually win out.

Music by: https://www.bensound.com/free-music-for-videos

License certificate #: 2227748

Episode 157: The Rise Of Scottie Scheffler

January 28th, 2026  |  1 hr 10 mins

bauder media group, canada, eastern ontario, flagstick.com, golf, ottawa, ottawa valley, podcast, sports, western quebec

Is it even a fair fight anymore? As of January 2026, Scottie Scheffler has officially moved from "great" to "historic." With a dominant win at the 2026 American Express, Scheffler has reached the 20-win milestone in just 151 starts—joining only Tiger Woods and Jack Nicklaus as the players to hit 20 wins and 4 majors before the age of 30.

In this episode, we break down the surgical precision of the man who has turned the PGA Tour into his personal trophy room. We explore his rise from a Texas junior winning 75 tournaments to becoming a Lifetime Member of the PGA Tour.

This week, we’re diving into:

The 20-Win Club: Analyzing the significance of Scottie’s latest victory and his record-breaking 1,442-day sprint from his first win to his 20th.

Tiger vs. Scottie: The math is finally competitive. We compare Scottie’s 2024–2025 stretch to Tiger’s legendary 2000 season. Who had the better peak?

Inside the Bag: How Scottie leanns on clubs that he trusts, and how his TaylorMade Spider continues to silence the putting critics.

The "Major" Hunt: With 4 Majors in the bag, we look ahead to Shinnecock Hills and Scottie’s quest for the career Grand Slam at the U.S. Open.

Whether you're a die-hard gear head curious about his 7-wood transition or a fan witnessing one of the most consistent ball-striking eras in golf history, this is your deep dive into the reign of Scottie Scheffler.

Music by: https://www.bensound.com/free-music-for-videos
License certificate #: 2227748

Episode 156: PGA Show 2026 – The Gear Is Here

January 20th, 2026  |  1 hr 10 mins

bauder media group, canada, eastern ontario, flagstick.com, golf, ottawa, ottawa valley, podcast, sports, western quebec

In Episode 156, Jeff and Scott break down everything happening as the golf industry gathers in Orlando for the PGA Show, with a strong focus on the biggest equipment launches and trends heading into the 2026 season.

The show opens with industry and community updates, including registration details for the 2026 Flagstick Open Amateur Championship, highlights from the Sony Open in Hawaii—where Chris Gotterup earned his first PGA TOUR win—and strong Canadian performances from Taylor Pendrith and Nick Taylor. We also discuss Brooke Henderson being named among the first five players in the newly announced WTGL league.

The conversation then shifts to the PGA Show itself, explaining what the event is and why it matters. Often described as golf’s version of Fashion Week mixed with a tech convention, the PGA Show brings together thousands of professionals, brands, and executives for product launches, education, networking, and hands-on testing. From Demo Day at Orange County National to the massive exhibition floor, the hosts outline how equipment, apparel, technology, and golf culture all converge in one place. They also highlight major modern trends, including the rise of golf lifestyle branding, explosive growth in simulator and AI technology, and a continued push toward inclusivity and growing the game.

In the Back Nine, the focus turns fully to new gear for 2026. Drivers remain the headline category, with manufacturers emphasizing tighter dispersion, predictability, and improved performance on off-center hits rather than raw speed alone.
The hosts also cover major equipment trends across the bag, with perspectives on the latest irons, wedges, putters, golf balls, footwear, and emerging technologies.

Overall, Episode 156 paints a comprehensive picture of where golf equipment and technology are headed in 2026.

Music by: https://www.bensound.com/free-music-for-videos
License certificate #: 2227748

Episode 155: The Return of Brooks & The 2026 New Year Mailbag

January 13th, 2026  |  1 hr 10 mins

bauder media group, canada, eastern ontario, flagstick.com, golf, ottawa, ottawa valley, podcast, sports, western quebec

The 2026 golf season kicks off with a bombshell. In this episode, we break down the shocking news that Brooks Koepka is officially back on the PGA TOUR. We discuss his official statement, his return at the Farmers Insurance Open, and his candid admission about the "nervous energy" and mending broken bridges in the locker room.

We also dive into the mechanics of the newly minted "Returning Member Program"—the Tour's high-stakes solution for bringing back elite talent while maintaining "severe and justified consequences." Who is eligible and will they take up the offer.

The 2026 Mailbag: We tackle our first listener Q&A of the year!

Including:

The Augusta Gamble: Would you bet your entire golfing future on one round to break 90 at National?

The "Turn Dog" Debate: Is it actually culinary excellence, or just a blood sugar emergency?

The Hill to Die On: Our non-negotiable takes on equipment and brands.

Golf YouTube: Is it helping your game or causing total "analysis paralysis"?

Music by: https://www.bensound.com/free-music-for-videos
License certificate #: 2227748