The Provisional - A Golf Podcast: Recent Episodes
The Provisional
The guys are back after several weeks off with lots to discuss in the golf world. They discuss Tiger's return to competitive golf and all of the news surrounding him and the release of the PIP top 20 and whether it's good for the sport. They discuss the continuing endless money going into LIV and it's impact, including rumors about Jon Rahm joining the Saudi league. They break down the last four weeks of the PGA Tour season that saw fascinating and exciting wins by Collin Morikawa, Erik Van Rooyen, Camilo Villegas, and Ludvig Aberg.
Jarrett discusses the reason for his lengthy break from pod appearances and the guys talk about what they are thankful for in golf. They talk about golf in the Minnesota winter offseason and how they fill their time while sharing the endless battle against physical ailments and age.
The guys are back to catch-up on the PGA Tour Fall Series including the Children's Shriners Open where Lexi Thompson received a sponsors exemption and nearly made the cut, beating several past Tour winners. They talk about the impact of Lexi's play and her exceptional driving distance and accuracy. They recap Tom Kim's repeat title and his trajectory as one of the top players in the world.
They break down the OWGR's decision to not grant points to the LIV Tour and give a shout out to the St. Thomas women's golf team, who won their third event of the fall season, highlighted by the play of freshman Kathryn Van Arragon.
Lastly, Matt Bare discusses the sauna and cold therapy area he is building in his yard, his push to live longer, and the great health benefits that come with regular use of a sauna. Brad argues with Matt about the proper pronunciation of "sauna."
The guys break down the 2023 Ryder Cup that just wrapped up in Italy. The US once again lost in Europe and now all of the questions are asked about why it happened to the US again in Europe! Was it because of the fans? Did Europe just outplay the US? Did Europe get all of the big shots to fall and the US couldn't get the ball in the hole? All of these questions and more are discussed on this episode along with chatter about the 2025 Ryder Cup at Bethpage.
She has literally seen all areas of the golf business in her career. Current LPGA Tour caddie Sarah Butler joined the pod to talk about life on Tour and her path to caddying which included stints as a playing professional, a PGA assistant professional, a high school coach, an AJGA Tournament Manager, a college coach (Old Dominion, Iowa State, Colorado State), and now a caddie at the highest level of women's professional golf.
Sarah shares shares her story growing up in Roseau, Minnesota, being recruited and playing for the Gophers, getting into coaching, and countless stories from the traveling the world on the LPGA.
The guys welcome two MN local golf businesses to the pod. Steve and Ryan from Bogeys R Fine talk about their love for golf and how they took that love and created a golf business during the pandemic! They sell shirts, hats and other gear with their logo and other fun sayings.
Matthew and Tyler from Pin Hunters also join the pod to talk about how they have built a brand around unique and custom golf towels!
The conversations range from starting a business, being in the golf business, dream foursomes and more!
Gopher senior star Ben Warian and head coach Justin Smith dropped by the pod to talk about Ben's rise to college golf stardom, talk about the 2023-24 season, and preview the Gopher Invitational at Windsong Farm.
4:55: Ben's golf story
6:10: Ben's recruitment and decision to attend the University of Minnesota
10:10: Gophers' 2023-24 schedule breakdown
11:55: Justin playing in a charity round with John Daly
13:30: Ben's favorite grasses to play on
21:30: Ben's busy summer that included top 30 finishes at the Trans-Mississippi, Northeast Amateur, North and South Amateur and Pacific Coast Amateur and the Canadian Amateur.
22:40: Recapping Bella McCauley's comments about Ben's hard work practicing
25:25: Is Ben Warian one of the nicest guys in golf?
27:55: Justin's favorite moments coaching Ben
31:10: Gopher roster breakdown
35:20: New Gopher team van talk
39:50: Ben breaking down top possible NIL deals for his head coach
42:30: Gopher Invitational at Windsong Farm preview
49:05: Ben breaking James McLean's season scoring record
54:20: Ben's Ryder Cup breakdown and playing with Ludvig Aberg
Episode 75 with the guys features a Tour Championship recap where Viktor Hovland continued his hot play, winning a second straight event, and securing the $18M purse for winning the FedEx Cup. The guys debate the format of the event and suggest some changes including allowing the winner to choose the course for the event the following year.
They talk about Scottie Scheffler's statistical dominance, the Ryder Cup captain's picks coming up this week, the largest gains in the OWGR this season. They talk about where the Ryder Cup ranks in their favorite golf events of the year, the Minnesota PGA Section Championship, and Brad breaks down the hot weather forecasted for the Minnesota region and his most desired weather conditions.
The guys sit down with Jack Wawro, Director of Golf at Cragun's Resort and Tournament Director for the CRMC Championship (PGA Tour Canada) to discuss all of the great things happening in golf in the Brainerd lakes area. They review last year's great first run of the event and preview all of the exciting new things for the 2023 version, coming up on 8/28! Jack also breaks down why is he is such a huge Michigan sports fan, his love for fishing, and getting into tournament golf at a later age.
They also talk about the BMW Championship and Viktor Hovland's closing 61 that featured 8 3's on the back nine! The Tour Championship is up next and the field is down to 30 players. Tune in next week to hear who finishes on top for the 2022-2023 season!
Munn and Keiser are joined by Caleb and Kathryn VanArragon fresh off both of them sweeping the Minnesota State Amateurs and State Opens, becoming the first brother-sister combo to accomplish the feat. On top of it, they won the MGA Mixed Team Championship together this summer.
Caleb is returning to Valparaiso University for his fifth year after an incredible senior year, finishing in the top 11 in every regular season event, leading to this summer where he won the State Open by nine and the State Amateur by 12 shots. He eventually earned an exemption into his first PGA TOUR event at the 3M Open.
Kathryn will be a freshman at the University of St. Thomas after completely dominating amateur golf in the state this summer, winning the State Amateur at Baker National and the State Open at Stoneridge, and a wildly successful high school career where she won two state titles.
Interview timeline:
Caleb's journey to becoming a high-level golfer (1:50)
Kathryn discusses her path to golf (2:41)
What they enjoy most about playing golf (3:15)
Pushing and inspiring each other (4:40)
Caleb caddying for Kathryn (7:25)
Styles and personalities on the course (8:47)
Other activities outside of golf (11:00)
Kathryn discussing winning the State Am and State Open (15:00)
Caleb discussing his incredible summer run (19:00)
College recruiting processes (23:50)
Caleb deciding to return to Valpo for a fifth year and not turning pro (29:30)
Caleb's 3M Open experience (31:40)
Kathryn's advice for young golfers (35:20)
Luke Benoit's influence as their instructor (37:25)
Favorite courses in Minnesota (41:25)
Go-to food on the course (45:25)
Worst golf clichés (49:20)
Kathryn playing in Hot Springs, Arkansas with 130 degree feels like temps (51:45)
Upcoming schedules (55:45)
Brad and Keiser run the two-man pick-and-roll for episode 72 recapping the regular season finale Wyndham Championship where Lucas Glover prevailed for his fifth career win. They talk about great players losing their games and recovering it this season from Rickie Fowler to Jason Day to Justin Rose and is it relates to Justin Thomas and Billy Horschel fighting to regain their games late in the season. They also discuss the bad breaks that Russell Henley got on 16 and 17 after a weather delay that cost him the tournament and the great break that Glover received on the 18th hole.
They discuss the beachside seating on the 15th hole at "Club Wyndham" and whether tournaments should explore other creative seating options such as floating seats.
They talk about the uncertainty and confusion as we head to the end of the PGA Tour season as it related to the future schedule, the signature series events, how players outside the playoffs keep their cards, and the pending unification of the PGA Tour and LIV. They talk about Tiger joining the PGA Tour Player Policy Board and the impact.
With Jeff Munneke's absence, they recognize National Chocolate Chip Cookie Day from Friday and National Fresh Breath Day for Sunday. They break down the best methods for the best minty fresh breath.
The guys are back to recap our home tournament, the 3M Open! Lee Hodges prevailed with a seven-shot victory, dusting a solid field. They go into great depth discussing all of the local players in the field (7:15) including Caleb Van Arragon, Alex Gaugert Monday qualifying and getting paired with Erik Van Rooyen who he normally caddies for (12:20), and all of the fun activities and operations at the 3M. They talk about Hodges dominating win and recap the various other tournament plot lines.
Other topics included do short golfers have an advantage (1:20), celebrating National Lifeguard Appreciation Day (3:00), the TPC Twin Cities top redesign features (23:30), the race for the FedEx Cup playoffs (37:00), the Ryder Cup standings (45:20), the PGA Tour's response to the USGA/R&A rollback proposal (50:25), and Phil's response to possible sanctions for LIV players coming back to the PGA Tour (54:50).
On the eve of 3M Open Week, the guys are joined by friend of the Pod and 3M Open Tournament Director, Mike Welch.
Mike talks about his career, love of golf, and transition to the 3M Open after a long and successful career in the NBA. He talks about Tuesday (Golf 4 All Day) and Sunday being his favorite days of the week and gives an inside look at the 3M Open field and the local ties that the tournament has provided its exemptions to. They also talk about new food options, the best places to watch the tournament, and the first-class parking and transportation to the course.
They talk about The Open Championship and Brian Harman's dominating performance in winning his first major. Keiser celebrates the victory for all short guys in the 5-8 and Under Club.
They also breakdown the superpowers of Celsius beverages and discuss National Peanut Butter and Chocolate Day and address the risk-reward of Keiser going ahead and eating it despite his peanut allergy.
A huge thanks to Mike for joining us during the extremely busy lead up to the 3M Open. It's a special week for golf fans and the economic impact that the PGA Tour brings to the region.
The guys were honored to be joined by ESPN and PGA Tour Radio personality Michael Collins who entertained them with some epic storytelling.
The vast array of topics included his facial hair shift, out of control hat collection, giving framed Masters flags to dinner hosts, being mistaken for Darius Rucker, the Matty & Caddie alternate broadcast at the PGA, his love for Walter Payton and Kirby Puckett, the worst caddying situations, the only hole-in-one by a player he looped for, his dream foursomes, and much more.
They talk in-depth about his stand-up comedy career (including performing on cruise ships), his route to caddying and eventually into golf media. They talked about his wildly successful ESPN + show America's Caddie and his emotional interview with Valentino Dixon, and how he wished to grow the game by bringing in some non-golf fans and making them laugh.
Legendary sports scribe Jerry Zgoda joins the guys on the pod this week to tell endless stories from traveling the world playing golf, winning the media lottery to play Augusta National, Arnold Palmer turning down an interview but sending him a signed book, what autographs he's actually acquired. Jerry records the interview fresh from a return from Stockholm, Sweden where he attended the final three Elton John farewell shows.
They talk about Allisen Corpuz's magical run to her first career win at the U.S. Women's Open at Pebble Beach. The talk about the Corpuz more than doubling her career earnings, NBC's production, and the test that Pebble provided.
They wrap up the show talking about the worst places to have a bad sunburn when trying to play golf and the best sides for a post-round meal.
It was a win for New England this week on the PGA Tour as Vermont native Keegan Bradley takes his sixth career title with his family in attendance. The guys discuss the birdie-fest at the always entertaining Travelers Championship.
Keiser takes issue with Rory's comments about TPC River Highlands being rendered "obsolete" due to technology and the guys take a deep dive into whether seeing many players extremely low scores including a couple runs at 59, is good for bad for the Tour. They also discuss the importance of the event to the region and whether this was a "hometown" win for Bradley.
They discuss the KPMG PGA Women's Championship where 20-year-old Ruoning Yin hit all 36 greens in regulation on the weekend to win her first major in just her second LPGA season. They also talk about Rose Zhang's incredible play, nearly winning her first major as a professional.
They cap the episode with some FedEx Cup points chatter and updated Ryder Cup standings and note that two Gopher women's players, Grace Curran and Emma Carpenter, qualified for the U.S. Women's Amateur at Bel-Air Country Club.
The guys are back to break down all angles of the U.S. Open at Los Angeles Country Club where Wyndham Clark won his first major, beating Rory McIlroy by a shot. They discuss the first major held at Los Angeles Country Club in 75 years, how the course was received, the USGA set up, and the odd lack of patrons on the course. They talk about Clark's gutty play down the stretch that allowed him to prevail over the top names in golf including Scottie, Rory, and Rickie.
On the doorstep of the Minnesota State High School Championships, the guys are joined by one of the state's all-time great players, Sarah Burnham. Prior to a multi-year career on the LPGA Tour, Sarah won a state title at Wayzata High School in addition to every major event in the state. She attended Michigan State, earning All-America honors three times and Big Ten Player of the Year honors twice. After three seasons on the LPGA, she was hired as the head coach at Oakland University in Michigan at the age of 26 where she promptly led the Grizzlies to three tournament wins in her first season.
Sarah shares her golf story growing up in the Twin Cities metro, her guiding influences that took her to the top of golf in Minnesota, and plenty of stories from her path to the LPGA and on the road of the world's top Tour.
The guys are joined by legendary Minnesota sportswriter and radio personality Patrick Reusse to break down a huge week in professional golf that ranged from the PGA Tour's big news about the future of the game to a historic win by Nick Taylor at the RBC Canadian Open on the fourth playoff hole!
Reusse also shared many great golf stories from over the years that have helped shape the game, along with a preview of the 2023 US Open that will take place this week at LACC!
The guys are joined by Tianna Country Club General Manager and head coach at Walker-Hackensack-Akeley High School, Carrie Johnson. Live from the team van returning from a practice round for the state championship, Carrie discusses everything high school golf and Tianna, where she has been the GM since 2010, following in her father's footsteps. From the course to the hospitality to the food, Tianna is a Minnesota gem. They also talk the food scene in the Walker-Hackensack area.
The guys also talk about the wild, dramatic finish at the Charles Schwab Challenge at Colonial where Emiliano Grillo overcame a bizarre double bogey on 18 to beat Adam Schenk on the second playoff hole. They also recap the Senior PGA where Rush Creek general manager Derek Stendahl played his last 27 holes in even par to just miss the cut by a single shot.
Tonight's episode is all about the PGA Championship, charting Michael Block's movie-like run to a top-15 finish, securing a 2024 berth and multiple PGA Tour sponsor exemptions. The guys break down all the angles from Brooks Koepka's return to the pinnacle of the sport and a fifth major title. They discuss the historical significance of Koepka's victory, while touching on Tom Kim's waltz in the swamp and subsequent bath in the creek.
To cap the show, the guys break down local golf including the conclusion of Bella McCauley's historic season at the NCAA Championships, Ben Warian's great finish at NCAA Regionals and berth in the U.S. Open sectionals, St. John's top-5 finish at the NCAA Division III Championships, and a wrap-up of the Twin Cities Open.
One of the great leaders in college athletics, University of Cincinnati athletics director John Cunningham hopped on the pod with the guys this week. John talks about his journey in college athletics, the growth of Cincinnati Athletics and transition to the Big 12, his love of golf, and his game that is described as "you have way too good of a swing, you should be a much better golfer." He also talks about Cincinnati's thriving men's golf program that is playing in the NCAA Regionals and the new state-of-the-art indoor golf performance center constructed in an office building near campus.
The guys celebrate National Chocolate Chip Cookie Day, their favorite cookies, and best emergency cookie purchases. They wrap up Bella McCauley's historic NCAA Regional performance and berth in the NCAA Finals and talk about Ben Warian's hot start to the NCAA Regional in Michigan.
They preview the PGA Championship held at Oak Hill Country Club in Rochester, N.Y., which recently underwent a major restoration from noted architect Andrew Green. The PGA was given to Oak Hill when they expected it to be held in August, adding intrigue to how the course will fare in Mid-May in upstate New York. They talk about who they look to emerge toward the top of the leaderboard. They discuss the top LIV players, how they will fare, and the odd finish of the LIV Tulsa event where the CW cut away for sitcom reruns during the playoff between Cam Smith and Dustin Johnson.
Episode 60! Munn confesses his wandering eye allowed him to cheat on the Reese's Blizzard at DQ for the first time in 20 years and purchase a Puppy Chow Blizzard.
World Laughter Day.
The guys talk about Wyndham Clark's run to his first career victory at the Wells Fargo Championship, played at one of the toughest courses on Tour at Quail Hollow. Clark burst past Xander Schauffele on the back nine. With just two designated events remaining, the top two players in the world sat this event out and the guys break down all of the week's storylines.
They touch on Phil's recent Twitter behavior, using expletives to describe Mike Whan's decision at the USGA to remove Talor Gooch's exemption into the U.S. Open. Meanwhile, Lee Westwood continues to rip the DP World Tour after the Tour won it's legal battle against the LIV Tour players.
The guys talk about Gopher Ben Warian continuing a fantastic junior season, qualifying for the NCAA Regionals next week in Michigan and Bella McCauley and Mariana Mesones playing at the NCAA Indiana Regional this week. They also discuss some of the U.S. Open local qualifiers taking place the last two weeks.
Matt provided a Ryder Cup standings and Presidents Cup captains update. Keiser broke down the unique format this week on the LPGA Tour with the HANWHA International Crown featuring the top eight countries with four players competing for each nation. Thailand ran the table to beat Australia in the finals.
Brad breaks down the Minnesota high school golf scene with Maple Grove surging into the top ranking in the boys and girls rankings.
The guys are joined by University of Minnesota star Bella McCauley and head coach Rhyll Brinsmead. Fresh off earning All-Big Ten honors and taking runner-up honors at the Big Ten Championships, Bella talks about her historic freshman season, adjustments she's made in her approach, and her friendship with her freshman roommate and fellow NCAA qualifier Mariana Mesones. Bella and Rhyll talk about the team dynamics that have allowed the program to grow this season. They touch on Name, Image, Likeness, grocery store runs on the road to find the best peanut butter for mid-round sandwiches, and Bella settles the pod's debate on the proper sock length on the golf course.
They touched on the win by Tony Finau at the Mexico Open, talked about the PGA Professionals National Championship which started Sunday, featuring 10 players with Minnesota ties, and recapped the Gopher men's team seventh-place finish at the Big Ten Championships. Ben Warian finished in a tie for fifth and will qualify for NCAAs as an individual. Bella talks about Ben's unmatched work ethic.
All five guys are back with a wide-ranging episode. Jarrett shares his fractured wrist injury sustained coaching youth soccer and the guys discuss getting old and how to prevent missing golf time due to injury. They pivot to recap the Zurich Classic, captured by first-time winners Nick Hardy and Davis Riley before discussing the huge crowds at the LIV Adelaide event, and whether the underemphasized world markets like Australia can carry LIV in the future.
The guys talk about the first women's major of the year, won by American Lillia Vu who was outside the top 10 entering the final round before shooting a final round 68 and beating Angel Yin in a playoff. They talk about the championship's switch from its traditional Mission Hills venue where it was played for 50 years, to The Club at Carlton Woods in The Woodlands, Texas. Trying to keep tradition alive, the event put a dock in the pond by the 18th green for the champion to jump in, but the weather was cold and the pond looked unpleasant. The guys talk about whether they would jump in a similar body of water.
They talk about Minnesota native Bella McCauley taking runner-up honors at the Big Ten Women's Championship for the Gophers, the best finish by a Gopher in more than 30 years.
They also celebrate National Pigs in a Blanket Day and analyze the proper recipe.
Lastly, the debate what time of the day is best to play golf and the factors involved. Meals? Morning dew on grass? Mosquitoes? Sunsets? Sunrises?
The guys are back talking about the exciting finish of the RBC Heritage where Matt Fitzpatrick emerged over Jordan Spieth in a three-hole playoff. They talk about their favorite moments of the week and whether the Tour schedule is too demanding with a seventh designated event in 10 weeks. They discuss Rory's controversial withdrawal from the event and Rahm's commitment to play despite winning The Masters.
The guys also discuss the best on-course beverages and how that affects push-carting or carrying your clubs and they celebrate National Fly A Kite Day.
The second half of the episode features a preview of the Minnesota High School Boys season with the head coach of the defending state champion Edina Hornets, Mike McCollow. Mike discusses the Hornets run to the 2022 title and the abundant talent across the state this year.
The guys tackle all things The Masters including Jon Rahm's win, Phil and Brooks' resurgences, the wild weather, the agronomy team at AGNC, the Masters app, LIV player success, Sam Bennett's epic run and great short game, and an OWGR breakdown.
They also begin the show discussing the sometimes tough call of walking or riding when arriving at the course and a debate of push vs. carry vs. ride.
The guys are back for their favorite Golf and sports week of the year, highlighted by the Masters. They breakdown their favorite plot lines from Rory, Scottie and Rahm vying for the top player in the world title to the changes to the course to tthe 18-player LIV roster that is tying it up in their first meaningful event in some time. They also discuss the Champions Dinner cuisine, wrap-up the Valero Texas Open, the ANWA and the Drive-Chip-Putt Championship. They also celebrate Hug a Newsperson Day and discuss their favorite local newspeople.
*we apologize for some minor technical difficulties during the show.
Brad, Munn, and Keiser are back to say farewell to the Dell WGC World Match Play. They talk about how much they love Austin Country Club and the compelling play with Sam Burns beating Cam Young in the finals.
The guys also break down the many exciting plot lines heading into The Masters in two weeks and whether or not The Masters signals the beginning of golf season in Minnesota. They also breakdown the sad, slow snow melt in Minnesota.
They also celebrate National Joe Day and discuss the lack of PGA Tour players named "Joe" and their favorite Joes.
Golf equipment guru Joe Kauffman of 2nd Swing is back with the guys to talk about the latest trends in new and used golf club purchases and fittings. He discusses the relentless excellent customer service that separates 2nd Swing from the other golf retailers. They talk about obscure club requests, vintage clubs, why to get fit, and what he's excited about that's new in the market this year.
The guys also recap the Valspar, the original caddie bibs at the event, Taylor Moore's first career win, and Adam Schenk's 10th straight event and near victory.
They break down Scottie Scheffler's Masters Dinner menu and go over the recent golf ball roll-back proposal by the USGA and R&A.
Brad, Matt, Jarrett and Jeff are back this week to break down the PLAYERS Championship and Scottie Scheffler's sixth win in the last two years. They discuss what Scheffler's career arc looks like in addition to other topics such as the continued slow play on Tour. They chat about some of the great stories including three holes-in-one on 17, Min Woo Lee making a run, Tyrrell Hatton's late charge and whether Matt will make Hatton his favorite player in Ian Poulter's Tour absence.
The guys also revisit the Girl Scout Cookie market where production issues have created a rich secondary market for their sales.
The guys are back on a Monday night to break down all sorts of topics across the golf world including Kurt Kitayama’s win at the Arnold Palmer Invitational, the reveal of some of the restrictive LIV player contracts and the recent changes to the 2024 PGA Tour schedule.
They also discuss Netflix’s Full Swing, their favorite episodes and what was missed in the series. They also celebrate National Oreo Day, rank their favorite DQ Blizzards and take a deep dive into the world of Girl Scout Cookies.
The guys are joined for their 50th episode by Exmoor Country Club (Chicago) Director of Instruction John Cleary! John is a veteran coach, player and instructor. A long-time PGA member, he has more than 20 years of experience as a teaching professional at some of the top private clubs in the Chicago area. He also was a very successful assistant and head coach on the collegiate level at Loyola, Northwestern, Northern Illinois, Texas Tech and Minnesota.
He’s also an established player, posting top finishes and winning events in the Illinois and Minnesota sections, qualifying for six PGA Professional national Championships and even made an appearance at the 2000 Western Open on the PGA Tour.
John chats with the guys about his career in golf, his favorite things about teaching, and his much more athletically accomplished wife, Crystal. They also celebrate National Carnival Day and discuss their top carnival rides and games.
John also breaks down the first LIV event on the CW with the guys and the riveting conclusion of the Honda Classic.
The guys celebrate their one-year anniversary of producing the Provisional by discussing Tiger's impressive return to the PGA Tour and Jon Rahm's continued incredible play, winning his fifth event in his last nine starts. They talk about Max Homa's continued great play and Keith Mitchell's resiliency as one of few players still wearing a visor. They discuss the latest LIV defections and the PGA Tour's magical run over the last couple of weeks. The guys also catch up on the Gopher Women's Golf team's continued rise highlighted by a seventh-place finish at the the nation's strongest fielded event in the Bahamas and their upcoming schedule.
The guys are back to recap their interview with CBS Sports' Kyle Porter from Friday and breakdown the Waste Management Phoenix Open where Scottie Scheffler repeated as champion to rise back to No. 1 in the world. The guys talk about the importance of the event at TPC Scottsdale, and the return of Tiger Woods to the PGA Tour next week at the Genesis Invitational at Riviera, another PGA Tour Designated Event. They also discuss the return of Jason Day, Rickie Fowler, and Justin Rose to the top of PGA Tour leaderboards.
They celebrate National Clean out your Computer Day and touch on the difficulty of entering an unfamiliar grocery store and attempting to find desired items.
Also, LIV players end up in Oman, playing the Asian Tour, scrambling for OWGR points and minimal purses.
Brad and Munn were thrilled to be joined by one of the nation's top golf journalists, Kyle Porter, live from the driving range at the Waste Management Phoenix Open.
The guys covered a lot of ground with Kyle in 30 minutes, including the start of his journalism career covering Oklahoma State Basketball and Football, the atmosphere at Gallagher-Iba Arena, and his baseball career and start in golf thanks to his mother.
Kyle also discusses the state of golf Twitter and his love for Rory McIlroy, not only as a generational golf talent, but as an extraordinary talker and thinker. He talks about how he misses Bryson DeChambeau on Tour and scene at the Waste Management Phoenix Open, including sightings of Karl-Anthony Towns and Steve Largent jerseys.
Kyle discusses his two books, A Normal Sport and A Normal Sport 2, detailing the last two seasons on the PGA Tour. He describes the books as celebrations of the absurdity and beauty of golf.
Lastly, the guys talk about Kyle's dream golf foursome, his favorite and least favorite airports and his thoughts on Netflix's Full Swing, including some fresh intel on the final episode of the series.
Gopher women's golf senior Grace Curran joined the guys this week. The Illinois native discusses her recruitment to the U of M, her experience playing at the U.S. Amateur last summer and success winning several big tournaments including the Illinois State Am. Grace also chats with the guys about her pre-and-post round meals including coach Rhyll Brinsmead’s famous peanut butter banana sandwiches at the turn, her relationship with her past coach Michele Redman and her current coaches and her career as a point guard and love for the Chicago Bulls and much more.
Max Homa does it all this week, winning his sixth career TOUR event while trying out new television on-course technology and providing humor, honesty and fun. Homa beat a high-level field, holding off Jon Rahm, Collin Morikawa, Keegan Bradley and others. The guys celebrate National Puzzles Day with Jeff Munneke and discuss their puzzle-solving techniques. They also chat maps, road atlases and the old-school globes and about the PGA Show and what items they are looking for this year and the importance of good rain gear and gloves. LIV silliness continues with Pat Reed's tee-tossing antics and former President Trump wins his club's senior championship despite counting a "strong practice round" as his first round score.
The guys go deep on LIV Golf's interesting and confusing television deal with the CW and recap Jon Rahm's fourth win in seven events at the American Express Championship, fighting off a strong challenge from Davis Thompson and a great field. They also recap the LPGA season opener where Brooke Henderson won wire-to-wire in the same week she announced a new club and ball deal with TaylorMade. They also discuss the LPGA getting in its own way by not issuing lockers to players at Lake Nona among other missteps.
The guys are joined by state basketball champion, Gatorade Player of the Year and Golden Gopher Basketball star Spencer Tollackson. The Gopher Basketball radio analyst and media personality is also a member at one of the great courses in the country and recently ranked as the top one in the state of Minnesota, White Bear Yacht Club. All things hoops, golf and White Bear are discussed, in addition to Spencer's crazy-long iron game and a brief recap of Si Woo Kim's win at the Sony Open.
The guys recap Jon Rahm's comeback win, Collin Morikawa's fade on the back nine, broadcast changes by NBC at the Sentry Tournament of Champions. They also discuss Tom Hoge flying to LA to see his alma mater, TCU, play in the national championship football game and then returning to Oahu for the Sony Open and JJ Spaun's button down Puma shirt and what their golf attire would be at Kapalua.
The guys go deep discussing the PNC Championship and Tiger and Charlie mania and end of the NBC careers for Maltbie and Koch and the changes coming to NBC Golf. The guys discuss the top golf holiday gifts under $40 and under $150, their top holiday meal items, who has gone caroling and recap the Masters announcement allowing LIV players meeting the qualifying criteria to compete.
Brad, Bare and Keiser share what they are thankful for in golf this holiday season while recapping Rory's sweep of the two major tour season titles, Jon Rahm's third win of the year worldwide and Lydia Ko taking the CME Race to the Globe and the largest pay day in the history of professional women's golf. The guys also discuss Adam Svensson becoming the next Canadian winner on the PGA Tour, taking the RSM Classic in the final event of the Fall.
The guys hit on a lot of topics starting with a nod to National Clean Out The Refrigerator Day and what's left in their golf bags after the season. The guys also discuss wins by Tony Finau on the PGA Tour and Tommy Fleetwood on the DP World Tour and the future of LIV Golf and how it will look in 2023. The contract non-renewals of familiar broadcast voices Roger Maltbie and Gary Koch is also discussed and what the best broadcast teams are across sports.
Brad, Keiser and Munn break down the best kind of nachos, putting the clubs away for the winter while wrapping up the World Wide Technology Championship at Mayakoba. The guys also discuss the new The Match lineup between Tiger and Rory vs. JT and Spieth and Bernhard Langer's 120th career win worldwide.
The guys break down the spookiest situations on the course, their Halloween household protocols and candy choices, whether the Tour season is too long and provide a recap of the Butterfield Bermuda Championship.
This week the guys discuss Rory McIlroy winning the CJ Cup, ascending to world #1 and more.
The guys break down controversial subjects such as proper sock length and allowing cars to park on a golf course for football tailgating while breaking down the ZOZO Championship, Fred Couples firing a 60 and the College Golf Corner returns.
The guys catch up with second-year University of St. Thomas head coach Matt Rachey on the heels of the first Division I tournament victory in school history. The Gopher letterwinner and former assistant talks about his career and the program he is rapidly building. He also trades thoughts on his favorite sneakers ever with the guys and the vibe in the long team van rides to various tournaments. The guys wrap-up the week in golf including the Shriners Children's Hospital event in Las Vegas and the Spanish Open.
The guys catch up on Golf buddy trip best practices and where to head next year, what the proper trophy holding techniques are and how whether Jeff Munneke can properly grill scallops on the Blackstone Grill. They also breakdown the Sanderson Farms Championship and the Dunhill Links in addition to launching a new segment, the College Golf Corner.
This week the guys break down the just completed President's Cup won by the United States. They share who their breakout stars were for each side, they're favorite pairings and make bold predictions on one player for next season.
The guys talk about the PGA Tour season kick-off and Max Homa's dramatic win in Napa, LIV hits Chicago with Bryson causing more drama and a Presidents Cup preview. Should the PGA and LPGA combine forces for a co-ed Presidents Cup? Jarrett opens the fantasy golf season with a big win at the Fortinet.
This week the guys are joined by University of Minnesota head men's golf coach - Justin Smith. Justin shares how the recent Gopher Invitational went this past weekend at Windsong Farm where the Gophers finished 4th in the 15 team event. There have been over 30 past participants in this event that have went on to play on the PGA Tour. Other topics include the Minnesota Golf Classic and how many pairs of golf shoes are in your rotation.
Gopher women's head coach Rhyll Brinsmead dropped by the Pod this week to talk about her talented 2022-23 team and the Annika Intercollegiate at our course of the week, The Royal Club in Lake Elmo. The best field in college women's golf will be on display Monday-Wednesday, September 12-14. We also talk to Rhyll about growing up in Australia and heading to Texas to play collegiate golf and how that launched her coaching career that has taken her to Iowa, Georgia and now Minnesota.
This week the guys are joined by Jack Wawro the Director of Golf at the Legacy Courses at Cragun's and making his third appearance on the program Scott McDonald. Topics this week include the CRMC Championship hosted at Cragun's, the Minnesota PGA Professional Championship and more.
The guys are joined by the lead assistant golf professional at Hazeltine National - Andy Smith. Andy shares his path in golf from the North Shore to Hazeltine and what method of teaching the game can have the greatest impact on young players. The PGA season is also nearing its end with Tour Championship coming up and hear who the guys think will bring home the title of FedEx Cup champion.
The guys are joined by former LPGA star Michele Redman to break down her LPGA career, her coaching career, and her current career playing/owning/running LPGA Legends events. They also break down the first career win by Will Zalatoris at the FedEx St. Jude Championship.
This week the guys are joined by Nate Musta the first assistant professional at Mendakota Country Club which is our course of the week. Also discussed is the Wyndham Championship, who is in/out of the FedEx Cup playoffs and Nick Faldo stepping away at CBS.
For this episode the guys are pleased to be joined by Jasi Acharya, PXG regional sales manager and former professional golfer. They also discuss this weeks course of the week - Interlachen Country Club.
This week the guys are joined by two of the finest employees at TPC Twin Cities - Director of Instruction David Branstad and making a return appearance is the head golf professional Adam Chandler to recap last week's 3M Open.
For this episode the crew is joined by the head professional at the TPC Twin Cities - Adam Chandler. They get into this weeks event at the TPC Twin Cities (the 3M Open), what the course is like now three years into hosting the event and the best places to watch from. They also break down the week that was for the Open Championship won by Cameron Smith.
This week the guys are joined by Wayzata CC 1st Assistant Blake Lentner to break down course of the week Wayzata CC. In addition, they recap the last couple weeks of professional golf and preview the final major of the year, The 150th Open Championship, at St. Andrews!
The guys are joined by 2nd Swing guru, former Perham Lakeside GM and all-around great guy Joe Kauffman. They discuss the club industry, the craziest trade-ins and Joe's experiences in all facets of the golf industry. The guys also chat about our Course of the Week, Brookview Golf Course, it's value, location and incredible amenities. We also recap the wild finish at The Travelers, the PGA Tour's financial response to LIV Golf and the exploding purses, growth and improved major courses the women's game is experiencing.
It's a Fathers Day treat as the guys are joined by Rush Creek General Manager and Minnesota Senior Open champion Derek Stendahl and his son, one of the top juniors in the Midwest, Ryan Stendahl. From the chilled apples on the first tee, to the Highlander Restaurant to the awesome Mac 9 to the Championship course, Rush Creek has everything. We hear about their favorite holes, the Stendahl family competition and what makes Rush Creek a special place.
This week the guys recap a busy week in the world of golf starting locally with the Tapemark Classic that both Jeff Keiser and Jeff Munneke participated in. They also highlight the wild week in Canada with Rory winning the RBC Canadian event and the debut of the first LIV golf event. They also take a look at this week's upcoming major - the U.S. Open.
This week the guys are joined by Bryan Skavnak who is an amazing person in and out of the world of golf. He has established his own personal brand for things like "Be the Nice Kid" and the "Happiest Golfer". He is also a major piece in the popular golf group "The Public Country Club". Bryan joins to talk those items as well as Edinburgh Golf Course, which is this week's "course of the week". Check it out!
The guys are joined this week by the husband and wife duo - Adam and Karissa Haugen. Adam is the director of golf at Grand View Lodge and Karissa is a show sponsor and a part of the Pietig Properties Group in the Brainerd Lakes area. They discuss the courses that are a part of the Grand View Lodge properties which include the Pines and the Preserve. The group also recaps the Charles Schwab Classic and more.
The guys are joined by Clayton Johnson, PGA Head Pro at Dellwood CC, to break down Justin Thomas' amazing come from behind victory at the PGA Championship at Southern Hills. This episode also does a deep dive on Dellwood CC, The Provisional's course of the week.
This week the guys are joined by Scott McDonald and Justin Zavadil to chat about this weeks "course of the week" which is Minnewaska Golf Club. They also preview this year's second major, talk some LIV golf and the recent Byron Nelson event.
This week the guys are joined by University of St. Thomas head women's golf coach Katie Hanneman. Katie is also a member at Minneapolis Golf Club, the Provisional's "course of the week" and Katie shares her thoughts on the club, coaching, how football coaching Hall of Famer Lou Holtz influenced her career, parenting a golfer and more.
For this episode the guys welcome John Sather and Paul Speltz from Brackett's Crossing Country Club in Lakeville. They discuss what makes their Club unique and one of the best in the metro area.
The guys also dive into the variety or lack thereof for the apparel in their closets and chat about the exciting finish at Mexico Open won by Jon Rahm and the sudden resurgence of Tony Finau.
This week the guys welcome in local PGA Professional - Derek Holmes to the show. They also kickoff a new program highlighting a Minnesota "course of the week" and the first one is Rum River Hills located in Ramsey. Other topics include the recent PGA Professional championship which Derek participated in, NIL sponsorship deals and the Zurich Classic.
This week the guys welcome in Joe Voeller, the director of coaching for North Suburban soccer, former Mounds View High school golf coach, Southview member and Harbour Town enthusiast. Topics include the RBC Heritage, the golf scene on Hilton Head Island, BombTech golf clubs and the PGA Professionals National Championship.
The guys welcome former Minnesota Gopher kicker and huge golf fan Chris Hawthorne to the show, fresh off his trip to The Masters! They break down Tiger's return to golf and Scottie Scheffler's continued domination on the PGA Tour as he brought home his first green jacket!
The guys welcome in 5-time Minnesota girls individual golf state champion Kate Smith. Kate won those titles growing up in Detroit Lakes, MN and then went on to star at Nebraska for her collegiate career. Kate also played in the Palmer Cup and the Augusta National Women's Amateur. Kate is now looking to earn her LPGA status through the Epson Tour. She is also a talented graphic designer and business owner. Check it out!
The guys are back this week to recap the WGC Match Play event. How good is Scheffler playing right now? How good of a match play player is Kevin Kisner? They also discuss what roles PGA Tour players might have if you had them as part of your high school student council.
The full squad is back this week and the guys chat about the recent Valspar event won by Sam Burns in extra holes along with which NCAA basketball personality they would play a round of golf with.
Brad and Jeff are joined by special guest Scott McDonald (CEO and Director of Speed at RYP Golf) to discuss the wild week at The PLAYERS. The course, the weather, the wild finish, the power of luck on the course are all on the table. The guys also discuss Tiger's induction into the World Golf Hall of Fame.
This week the program welcomes it's first ever guest as Justin Smith joins the guys. Justin is the head men's golf coach for the University of Minnesota. He also has a very decorated college career playing at the University of Minnesota where he was an all-Big 10 golfer and member of the 2002 national championship team.
The guys recap the Honda Classic, preview the upcoming Arnold Palmer Invitational and chime in on Phil's apology letter.
This week the guys dive into recapping the Genesis Invitational, the Saudi Golf League and what's happening there along with proper golf cart etiquette.
Welcome to the first episode of The Provisional. For this episode the guys break down the Waste Management Phoenix Open and Scottie Scheffler's first PGA Tour win. There were some wild things that happened during this tournament and hear what the group thinks of everything that went down in the first episode of this new podcast.