Straight Down The Middle

In this episode Golf Channel's Todd Lewis joins us to tackle the topic everybody is talking about, the PGA TOUR merger with LIV Golf.  Todd is as plugged in to professional golf as anybody.  He gives us some of the background on what led to this decision, how the players are reacting and an idea of what professional golf might look like in 2024.  You won't find a better source for the mo...

Episode 15 features Lisa Cornwell.  She is a former reporter/host on Golf Channel and now works on PGA TOUR LIVE.  Lisa has a book out called 'Troublemaker.  A memoir of sexism, retaliation and the fight they didn't see coming'.   In the book she details how she was mis-treated during her days at Golf Channel.  Lisa talks about her struggles in life, her rise in television and what...

In this episode Ted and Brian speak with the CEO of the National Golf Foundation, Joe Beditz.  Joe has his finger on the pulse of the golf business and talks about how the game has grown over the last few years.  He highlights where the sport has seen it's biggest growth, how 'off course' golf has contributed and what golf needs to do to keep this positive momentum.  This episode wi...

John Mahaffey is a 10 time winner on the PGA Tour and a Major Champion having won the 1978 PGA Championship at Oakmont.  John talks about being mentored early in his career by Ben Hogan and how alcohol cost him a Hall of Fame career.  He also tells the tremendous story as to how he beat his drinking problem.   It's a podcast you don't want to miss!

In this episode the Head Professional at Oak Hill Country Club gives us an inside look at how his course will play in the upcoming PGA Championship.   He talks about the changes to the course since the last PGA held there in 2013 and the key holes players will face in this year's event.  Ted Bishop and Jason also weigh in on what the philosophy of the PGA of America is when it comes to their...

Jaime Diaz of Golf Channel is one of the most respected golf writers that have ever lived.  He's covered the game for over 30 years.  In this episode we look back at all the storylines that evolved at the Masters.  Jaime also shares his opinions on the future of LIV golf and about the pro game in general.   Check out this episode to hear the thoughts of one of the most connected journalists i...

This episode features one of the greatest players of all time., Tom Watson.   Tom discusses many topics including his most memorable major championship, the near miss as a 59  year old at Turnberry as well as his thoughts on the proposed golf ball rollback.  If you're a fan of the game, you'll love this episode.  

As the CEO of Topgolf/Callaway Brands Chip Brewer is one of the most influential people in golf.  In this episode, Chip talks about the addition of Topgolf to Callaway's portfolio and the impact it is having on the sport of golf.  He also addresses what's next in golf club innovation and how Callaway's relationship with players on the LIV Tour is 'up in the air'.  It'...

In this episode the 38th President of the PGA of America talks about the state of golf in 2023.   Will the game continue the  upswing we've seen since Covid?  Is TopGolf and others good or bad for the green grass courses?  Ted addresses these topics and much more in an entertaining and informative episode of Straight Down The Middle.  

David Marr III is  familiar name to golf fans.   The son of famous golfer and broadcaster Dave Marr,  David regales us with stories about his dad, the celebrities he grew up surrounded by and his own career in broadcasting at Golf Channel.   If you like hearing about some of the greats of the game, you'll love this episode!

Andy North is a two time U.S. Open Champion, television broadcaster and University of Wisconsin super fan.  In this episode, he shares stories of his U.S. Open wins, his injury struggles and has thoughts on young golfers playing multiple sports.  When you listen it's obvious why Andy is one of the most insightful analysts on television.

Lanny Wadkins is a World Golf Hall of Fame member.   He won 21 times on the PGA TOUR, has a major championship to his name and is one of the most accomplished Ryder Cup players in history.  As Golf Channel viewers know, he's also not afraid to speak his mind!  Listen as Lanny tells us tales of his career, what he thinks about the Ryder Cup and its future and how LIV really isn't making a...

Doc Giffin was Arnold Palmer's right hand man for over 50 years.   Doc regales us with great Arnold Palmer stories including what he considers Arnies biggest thrill and how he was skeptical about getting involved with the formation of The Golf Channel.   If you're a fan of Arnold Palmer you'll enjoy this episode.  

Mike Greenberg is one of ESPN's biggest names.  He's also a huge fan of golf.  Listen as he explains who influenced him to get into sports broadcasting, what a typical day is for him at ESPN and how he went from a 'terrible' golfer to a single digit handicap.  You'll learn a lot about about 'Greeny' on this episode of Straight Down The Middle.  

Dottie Pepper was a great player on the LPGA Tour and is now one of the best broadcasters in golf.  Listen to her talk about her career highlights and her unfiltered thoughts on what is happening in professional golf today.  Dottie is always a great listen.  Enjoy this edition of Straight Down The Middle.  

This episode features renown sports psychologist Dr. Bob Winters.  Dr. Bob works with golfers at all levels, from juniors to tour players.  Dr. Bob offers advice to help improve your game and to parents of junior golfers.  It becomes evident that we could all use help with our mental game.