The ModGolf Podcast

Apr 26, 2017

The ModGolf Podcast talks with golf's top influencers, entrepreneurs, innovators and disruptors about their vision and solutions to re-imagine, transform and grow the game. Host Colin Weston explores the future of golf through conversations with the visionaries and influencers that are shaking up the sport. Thanks for joining us and please subscribe to our newsletter for your chance to win golf products we love in our latest #ModGolfGiveaway contest! Join our mission to make golf more innovative, inclusive and fun... and WIN some awesome golf gear! As the creator and host of The ModGolf Podcast and YouTube channel I've been telling golf entrepreneurship and innovation stories since May 2017 and I love the community of ModGolfers that we are building. I recently launched our ModGolf Patreon page to bring together our close-knit community of golf-loving people! By joining you will get access to exclusive live weekly interactive shows where you can participate, ask-me-anything video events, bonus content, golf product discounts and entry in members-only ModGolf Giveaway contests. I'm offering two monthly membership tiers at $5 and $15 USD, but you can also join for free. Your subscription will ensure that The ModGolf Podcast continues to grow so that I can focus on creating unique and impactful stories that support and celebrate the future of golf. Click to join >> https://patreon.com/Modgolf I look forward to seeing you during an upcoming live show!... Colin We'd love to hear from you! Have any ideas or guests you'd like to hear on future episodes? Email me at colin@modgolfpodcast.com to start the conversation. Want to listen to our most downloaded episode? That would be our conversation with Blue Ocean Strategy co-author Professor Renée Mauborgne! Click to listen in . CREATING NEW GOLF MARKETS THAT MAKE THE COMPETITION IRRELEVANT - RENÉE MAUBORGNE / BLUE OCEAN STRATEGY Special Guests: Jared Solomon, CEO and Co-Founder of Five Iron Golf and Renée Mauborgne - Co-author of Blue Ocean Strategy and Blue Ocean Shift.

18h ago

What does a non-golfer who loves Radiohead and once worked in a nightclub bring to the PGA Tour? A fresh perspective that drives groundbreaking innovation. In this long-awaited conversation, host Colin Weston sits down with Devon Fox, the Senior Director of Digital Programs at the PGA Tour. After eight years of connecting on LinkedIn, they finally dive into Devon’s unique journey from NASCAR and Nike to leading digital innovation in golf. Devon shares how her initial (and only) disastrous golf experience became a strategic advantage, allowing her to ask the questions no one else would. She pulls back the curtain on building the PGA Tour's first Fan Council, the decade-long process that led to the stunning Apple Vision Pro app, and how she intentionally "worked herself out of a job" to bake innovation into the Tour's DNA. Beyond technology, Devon opens up about the deeply personal motivation behind founding the PGA Tour's LGBTQ+ employee resource group, PRISM, and her advocacy for meaningful, policy-driven inclusion. This is a story about challenging tradition, the power of process, and building a future for golf that engages every fan. Key takeaways in this episode with Devon that you will discover: "Golf Ignorance" as an Innovation Superpower: Devon explains how not being a golfer allowed her to challenge sacred traditions and ask fundamental questions that insiders might overlook, leading to truly fresh thinking in digital fan engagement. Innovation is a Process, Not a Department: Learn how Devon moved the PGA Tour from having a small innovation team to baking innovative thinking into the product development process itself, ensuring it becomes a sustainable part of the culture. Inclusion Starts with Internal Policy, Not External Marketing: Devon shares her impactful, criteria-driven approach to LGBTQ+ advocacy to create PRISM within the PGA Tour workplace, focusing first on tangible employee benefits and education before any public-facing campaigns, creating lasting structural change. Episode Chapters: 00:00 - 02:10: Introduction and a Connection Eight Years in the Making 02:10 - 04:20: Devon's First (and Only) Golf Experience: A Hot, Hungry Disaster 04:20 - 07:20: The Strategic Advantage of Being a Non-Golfer & Asking "Weird" Questions 07:20 - 11:20: Building the Fan Council & Sourcing Ideas Directly from Fans 11:20 - 13:30: Learning from the NBA and the Two Rules of Sports Tech Innovation 13:30 - 16:30: Bridging Generations: Using New Tech to Showcase Golf History 16:30 - 19:15: The Innovation Process: From Design Thinking to Working Herself Out of a Job 19:15 - 23:35: Career Journey: From Soul-Sucking Banking to NASCAR and Global Retail at Nike 23:35 - 30:40: Advocacy in Action: Founding PRISM & Driving LGBTQ+ Inclusion from the Inside Out 30:40 - 33:00: The Size and Scope of the PGA Tour Organization 33:00 - 37:00: A Decade-Long Win: The Journey to the Apple Vision Pro App 37:00 - 38:15: Fostering a Culture of Ideas: The Annual Hackathon 38:15 - END: Closing & Teaser for the YouTube Candy Taste Test Quotable Moments from Devon: On bringing an outside perspective: "I really held on to this lack of golf experience and knowledge to give me permission to ask those weird questions that nobody else would ask. It really benefited me." On the purpose of technology: "You don't just do innovation and emerging technology for the sake of doing it. It has to have some value for the fan. You have to dig deep and find out what that is." On the long game of innovation: "One win I'm really proud of is the work that led up to the Apple Vision Pro app. It's this progression of 'let's see what we require to create it and let's go get after that, then build it in and operationalize that.'" Want to see Devon's reaction to tasting Thrills , a truly bizarre Canadian "soap-flavoured" gum from the 1970s while trying to carry on a conversation with Colin? Then check out our exclusive and fun bonus segment on The ModGolf YouTube channel . Click on this link or the image below to watch. Devon Fox's bio page >> https://modgolf.fireside.fm/guests/devon-fox Beyond technology, Devon is a passionate advocate for meaningful inclusion within the sports industry. Driven by a personal commitment to creating safer, more supportive workplaces, she founded and leads PRISM, the PGA Tour’s LGBTQ+ employee resource group. Under her leadership, the group has driven substantive policy changes, including the expansion of benefits and resources, demonstrating her belief that true progress is built on internal structural change. Through her dual focus on operational excellence and human-centric culture, Devon Fox plays a pivotal role in shaping both the digital future and the inclusive ethos of the PGA Tour. Join our mission to make golf more innovative, inclusive and fun... and WIN some awesome golf gear! As the creator and host of The ModGolf Podcast and YouTube channel I've been telling golf entrepreneurship and innovation stories since May 2017 and I love the community of ModGolfers that we are building. I'm excited to announce that I just launched our ModGolf Patreon page to bring together our close-knit community of golf-loving people! As my Patron you will get access to exclusive live monthly interactive shows where you can participate, ask-me-anything video events, bonus content, golf product discounts and entry in members-only ModGolf Giveaway contests. I'm offering two monthly membership tiers at $5 and $15 USD, but you can also join for free. Your subscription will ensure that The ModGolf Podcast continues to grow so that I can focus on creating unique and impactful stories that support and celebrate the future of golf. Click to join >> https://patreon.com/Modgolf I look forward to seeing you during an upcoming live show!... Colin We want to thank Golf Genius Software who have supported The ModGolf Podcast since 2019! Are you a golf course owner, manager or operator looking to increase both your profit margins and on-course experience? Golf Genius powers tournament management at over 10,000 private clubs, public courses, resorts, golf associations, and tours in over 60 countries. So if you’re a golf professional or course operator who wants to save time, deliver exceptional golfer experiences, and generate more revenue, check them out online at golfgenius.com . Special Guest: Devon Fox - Senior Director of Digital Programs at the PGA Tour.

Dec 10

What does it take to build a golf technology empire that not only survives but thrives through explosive growth, multiple acquisitions, and rapid industry change? In this power-packed episode, Colin Weston sits down with Chris Kallmeyer, the CEO of Golf Genius, for a masterclass in scaling a business while preserving its core soul. Four years after his first appearance, Chris returns to pull back the curtain on how Golf Genius grew from a tournament software leader into a comprehensive ecosystem serving every facet of the golf professional’s world. We dive deep into the "glue" that holds it all together - a winning company culture - and explore the cutting-edge integrations of AI, the strategic expansion into sim golf, and the mission to create golfers for life. If you're in the golf industry, a business leader, or simply fascinated by how to build a beloved and enduring company, press play now. This conversation is packed with actionable insights you won't want to miss. Listen to this full episode with Chris to discover: Culture is Your #1 Competitive Advantage: Discover why Golf Genius prioritizes cultural fit above all else, even in acquisitions, and how this focus has resulted in a world-class employee turnover rate of just 4%. Learn how a foundation of over 70 PGA professionals on staff creates an authentic, service-driven brand. Serving the PGA Professional is the North Star: Unpack the strategy of viewing the golf professional as the "center of the universe." See how this philosophy naturally led to a portfolio that solves pain points in tournament management, golf shop operations (Golf Shop), handicapping (via the USGA’s GHIN system), and coaching (Operation 36 & CoachNow). The Practical & Profitable Application of AI: Move beyond the hype. Chris details exactly how Golf Genius is implementing AI in two key buckets: to boost internal productivity (in development, support, and marketing) and to build powerful, time-saving features for customers, like automated inventory processing and intelligent coaching tools. Episode Chapters: (00:04) Introduction: The Return of Chris Kallmeyer (02:18) The Foundation: Golf Genius as a Tournament Management Powerhouse (05:53) The Secret Sauce: Building and Maintaining Company Culture (08:21) Acquisition Strategy: Why Cultural Fit is Non-Negotiable (19:02) Defining the Brand: Vision, Values, and Serving the Pro (13:18) Inside the Ecosystem: Powering the USGA’s Handicap System (16:36) Solving Pain Points: The Growth of Golf Shop (19:52) AI in Action: Making Golf Genius and Its Customers More Productiv (24:52) Growing the Game: The Coaching Portfolio (Operation 36 & CoachNow) (30:23) The Future is Hybrid: Expanding into Simulator & Indoor Golf (36:10) Global Growth: Key International Markets (39:53) Leadership Lessons: Strategic Bets and Saying "No" (41:51) How to Connect with Golf Genius Compelling Quotes from Chris On Culture & Growth: "We have a blended turnover with 300 people worldwide of something like 4% a year. That's world-class. It illustrates that we have a great culture that people enjoy working for. But beyond luck, we do take it very seriously and we work hard to maintain that culture, which gets harder and harder as you get bigger."* On Their Core Mission: "Our goal is to make the hard things easy while also making the easy things easy. We serve PGA professionals. They're the center of our universe. Whether they're running tournaments, managing golf shops, or coaching, we have products that help them do all those things, and we're here to serve them." On AI Strategy: "We look at AI in two primary buckets: How can we use AI to make ourselves more productive? And the second bucket is, how can we use AI to deliver AI-powered features that make our customers more productive or deliver capabilities that they don't already have." Are you more of a watcher than a listener? Then enjoy our video with Chris on The ModGolf YouTube channel . Click on this link or the image below to see visual insights and dive deeper with Chris. Chris Kallmeyer's bio page >> https://modgolf.fireside.fm/guests/chris-kallmeyer Chris Kallmeyer is the CEO of Golf Genius, a global leader in golf technology solutions that power the sport's ecosystem. With a career deeply rooted in both technology and a passion for the game, Chris has guided the company through a period of remarkable expansion, transforming it from a premier tournament management platform into a comprehensive suite of tools serving golf professionals at every level. Under his leadership, Golf Genius has successfully integrated ten strategic acquisitions—including Operation 36, CoachNow, and GolfShot—while maintaining an unwavering focus on a customer-centric culture and brand integrity. His philosophy centers on serving PGA professionals as the core of the business, a principle that has driven the development and success of products across tournament operations, golf shop management, handicapping, and player development. Are you a golf course owner, manager or operator looking to increase both your profit margins and on-course experience? Today's golf professionals do way more than run tournaments - and so does Golf Genius. They help you manage tournaments, leagues, and outings, streamline pro shop operations, and elevate your coaching and player development. That's why over 10,000 clubs, courses, resorts, associations, and tours in more than 60 countries trust Golf Genius. Find out what Golf Genius can do for your facility at golfgenius.com . Join our mission to make golf more innovative, inclusive and fun... and WIN some awesome golf gear! As the creator and host of The ModGolf Podcast and YouTube channel I've been telling golf entrepreneurship and innovation stories since May 2017 and I love the community of ModGolfers that we are building. I'm excited to announce that I just launched our ModGolf Patreon page to bring together our close-knit community of golf-loving people! As my Patron you will get access to exclusive live monthly interactive shows where you can participate, ask-me-anything video events, bonus content, golf product discounts and entry in members-only ModGolf Giveaway contests. I'm offering two monthly membership tiers at $5 and $15 USD, but you can also join for free. Your subscription will ensure that The ModGolf Podcast continues to grow so that I can focus on creating unique and impactful stories that support and celebrate the future of golf. Click to join >> https://patreon.com/Modgolf I look forward to seeing you during an upcoming live show!... Colin Special Guest: Chris Kallmeyer, CEO at Golf Genius Software.

Dec 2

Are there golfers on your Nice List who are deserving of some holiday cheer? Our host Colin Weston is here to help, as he provides golf gift picks to stuff your stockings and slide under your tree. But how many gift suggestions should we provide from our shortlist of deserving golf startups and companies that we have featured on The ModGolf Podcast? Well, since a traditional round of golf is 18 holes long let's go with that number! Click on the images below to learn more about and/or purchase the products we cover on this bonus episode. Hole 1: GripCaddie - revolutionary golf grip cleaning tool --> https://gripcaddie.com/ Hole 2: Grooveit - "The Wet Club Scrub Brush" --> https://grooveitbrush.ca/collections/shop-now Hole 3: Method Golf Co. - Magnetic Golf Accessories --> https://methodgolfco.com/ Hole 4: The Tee Clip - Handcrafted tee holding accessory Use coupon code " MODGOLF " to save 20% off a single item --> https://theteeclip.com/ Hole 5: The Links Diary - Golf storytelling that celebrates the soul of the game through words from the fairways of Scotland. A beautifully crafted magazine with new volumes released three times a year --> https://www.thelinksdiary.com/ Hole 6: Back 2 Basics Golf - Short Game Essentials Bundle Use coupon code " MODGOLF " to save 20% off a single item --> https://back2basics.golf Hole 7: PureOne - PureGrip Training Club --> https://pureonegolfshop.com Hole 8: Perfect Practice - indoor putting mats --> https://perfectpractice.com Hole 9: Swingtweaks - Personalized golf swing analysis and feedback app --> https://app.swingtweaks.com Hole 10: V1 Sports - The V1 Golf App --> https://v1sports.com Hole 11: ODIN Golf - Premium X1 Golf balls --> https://www.odin-golf.com/ Hole 12: Dormie Workshop - Handcrafted leather headcovers --> https://www.dormieworkshop.ca/ Hole 13: Zero Friction - synthetic & cabretta leather high performance golf gloves --> https://zerofriction.com/ Hole 14: Garsen Golf - customized putter grips --> https://garsengolf.com/collections/shop Hole 15: 36 A Day Golf Co. - ModGolf hats and hoodies --> https://36aday.com/products/modgolf-the-reegs Hole 16: Feetures - high performance athletic socks --> https://feetures.com/ Hole 17: Handsome Bogey - fun and fashionable men's golf polo shirts --> https://handsomebogey.com/ Hole 18: Levelwear - Men's and women's golf belts --> https://ca.levelwear.com/collections/mens-belts

Nov 21

Host Colin Weston sits down with YouTube golf pioneer Matt Fisher (Mr. Short Game) to dissect the cultural phenomenon of the Internet Invitational. They break down the 23-million-view event, exploring why its reality-TV format and creator-driven personalities are resonating with a new generation of fans. Matt shares his expert take on the "winners and losers," the cheating controversy, and why this model is a blueprint for the future of golf entertainment. Finally, they look ahead to the evolving golf media landscape, including TGL and Grass League, and discuss how authenticity is the ultimate key to success for aspiring creators. Listen to this full episode with Matt to discover: Personality is the New Premium: The massive success of the Internet Invitational proves that modern audiences crave authentic personality and entertainment as much as they value elite ball-striking. The unfiltered, reality-show format is a powerful new model for golf engagement. Strategic Content Separation is Key: To grow an audience effectively, separate your content by purpose. Matt is splitting his channel into three: one for instruction, one for on-course vlogs, and one for the Mr. Short Game Podcast, ensuring each audience finds exactly what they want. Multiple Revenue Streams Drive Sustainability: Relying solely on YouTube ad revenue is risky. A successful creator business is built on a mix of AdSense, strategic brand deals, and affiliate partnerships, all while prioritizing the audience's trust and interests above a quick payday. Episode Chapters: (00:00) Introduction: Welcoming back YouTube golf pioneer Matt Fisher aka: Mr. Short Game (02:30) The Internet Invitational Breakdown: The surprise success of the 23-million-view event (05:15) Strategy & Timing: Why the delayed release was a brilliant move (08:45) Audience & "Bro Culture": Did the event reach new fans or just its base? (12:30) Reality TV & Manufactured Drama: Analyzing the cheating scandal and villain arcs (16:00) Stock Up, Stock Down: The creators who won and lost in the public eye (20:15) The Casting Dilemma: Why some creators were chosen and others weren't (23:00) The Future of Golf Media: TGL, LIV, Grass League, and where the real opportunity lies (27:30) TGL vs. Influencer Golf: Why pros and creators thrive in different ecosystems (29:45) The Mr. Short Game Business Model: Revenue streams and building a sustainable content brand (32:15) Advice for Aspiring Creators: How to break into the YouTube golf space Compelling Quotes from Matt On the Internet Invitational's Appeal: "You have to know going in that this is a reality show and everything's on the table... It's on brand for Barstool. And Bob, especially Dave Portnoy, he is going to exploit every opportunity he has. And I don't blame him. He's creating a great entertaining show." On the Difference Between Pros and Creators: "You get Grant Horvat, you put him in the Masters, he's going to come in dead last. But you put him in a cart with Bryson DeChambeau, he's going to come in first in terms of views." On Authenticity for Creators: "The challenge is you see what's working and you just try to copy it as opposed to being authentic of who you are and create your own brand. You gotta film yourself and you gotta find who you are in front of that camera and be authentically you." Are you more of a watcher than a listener? Then enjoy our video with Matt on The ModGolf YouTube channel . Click on this link or the image below to watch. Mr. Short Game's bio page >> https://modgolf.fireside.fm/guests/matt-fisher As a golf coach Matt has learned that not everybody can be Tiger Woods, Jack Nicklaus or Phil Mickelson. However, with some simple golf instruction and swing tips you can become a great player and shoot your lowest scores consistently. Matt's goal is to give you great videos that will help you understand the golf swing so you can improve in your chipping, putting, driving and have a powerful swing that will last forever. Will you make it to the PGA Tour? Who knows. But with the right attitude and instruction you can have more fun and play the game of golf at a very competitive level. Mr. Short Game is here to help grow the game of golf in a fun and creative way: https://www.youtube.com/@MrShortGame Join our mission to make golf more innovative, inclusive and fun... and WIN some awesome golf gear! As the creator and host of The ModGolf Podcast and YouTube channel I've been telling golf entrepreneurship and innovation stories since May 2017 and I love the community of ModGolfers that we are building. I'm excited to announce that I just launched our ModGolf Patreon page to bring together our close-knit community of golf-loving people! As my Patron you will get access to exclusive live monthly interactive shows where you can participate, ask-me-anything video events, bonus content, golf product discounts and entry in members-only ModGolf Giveaway contests. I'm offering two monthly membership tiers at $5 and $15 USD, but you can also join for free. Your subscription will ensure that The ModGolf Podcast continues to grow so that I can focus on creating unique and impactful stories that support and celebrate the future of golf. Click to join >> https://patreon.com/Modgolf I look forward to seeing you during an upcoming live show!... Colin We want to thank Golf Genius Software who have supported The ModGolf Podcast since 2019! Today's golf professionals do way more than run tournaments - and so does Golf Genius. They help you manage tournaments, leagues, and outings, streamline pro shop operations, and elevate your coaching and player development. That's why over 10,000 clubs, courses, resorts, associations, and tours in more than 60 countries trust Golf Genius. Find out what Golf Genius can do for your facility at golfgenius.com . Special Guest: Matt Fisher, Creator of The Mr. Short Game YouTube channel.

Nov 15

Warning: the topic of suicide is discussed during this episode of The ModGolf Podcast. This is more than a story about golf; it's a story about how a single moment, a single community, a single purpose can pull someone back from the brink and empower them to save others. Listen to this full episode with Jonathan to discover: The Therapeutic Power of a Single Shot: Jonathan explains how the intense, fleeting focus required to hit a golf ball can break the cycle of traumatic "thought traps" and provide a unique form of mental therapy. Building a "Technical School" for Golf & Life: Learn about Jonathan's vision to create a comprehensive pathway for veterans and first responders. Not just to play golf, but to build careers in the industry as players, caddies, clubhouse staff, and agronomy crews. From Isolation to Community: Hear how the Warrior Golf Academy is intentionally designed to combat the #1 killer—isolation—by creating a tight-knit, supportive community that replicates the camaraderie of military and first responder teams. Episode Chapters: (01:15) Introduction: The Transformative Power of Golf (01:54) Jonathan's Story Begins: A Descent into Darkness (07:24) The Turning Point: A Divine Intervention (10:23) The Road to Recovery: Costa Rica and a Return to Golf (13:50) The Birth of a Mission: Founding the Warrior Golf Academy (17:55) Discipline on the Course vs. the Battlefield (22:58) Filling the Gaps: A New Model for Veteran Support (27:05) Stories of Transformation: The Ripple Effect of Hope (31:45) Creating Community: Indoor Simulators and Local Events (34:05) The Ripple Effect on Families and Communities (37:12) The Future Vision: Scaling Hope and Building a "Golf Technical College" (41:39) A Message to Those Struggling: "You Are Not Alone" (43:22) How to Get Involved and Support the Mission Quotable Moments from Jonathan: On Purpose: "What people are looking for in this life is belonging and purpose. If you don't have those, then you don't have that will to want to live." On Golf as Therapy: "It's really just that extreme focus for the few seconds it takes to hit the golf ball and then you don't have to think about anything. It helps me get out of my own way." On His Mission: "My vision for Warrior Golf Academy is to reach at least one person and save their life. If I could do that, then everything I've done is worth it." Are you more of a watcher than a listener? Then enjoy our video with Jonathan on The ModGolf YouTube channel . Click on this link or the image below to watch. Jonathan Sessa's bio page >> https://modgolf.fireside.fm/guests/jonathan-sessa Jonathan Sessa is a US Army veteran and the Founder & CEO of the Warrior Golf Academy, a nonprofit organization dedicated to saving lives and rebuilding purpose for veterans and first responders. His journey is a profound testament to post-traumatic growth. After his military service, Jonathan faced a profound period of darkness, grappling with the physical pain of service-connected injuries, the grief of personal loss, and the isolation that led him to the brink of suicide. His path to healing began with a powerful personal intervention and a transformative period in Costa Rica, where he rediscovered golf not just as a game, but as a therapeutic tool for mental wellness and a catalyst for his new mission. Driven by his own experience, Jonathan founded the Warrior Golf Academy to create the supportive community he found lacking. His vision extends far beyond teaching the golf swing. He is building a comprehensive "technical school" for the golf industry, providing veterans and first responders with the skills and connections to build careers as players, caddies, club managers, and agronomy staff. By focusing on belonging, purpose, and tangible career pathways, Jonathan's work directly combats the isolation that leads to the tragic statistic of "22 a day." Today, Jonathan leads a growing movement from the Academy's home in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. He is a certified PGA HOPE instructor and a passionate advocate for leveraging the game's unique disciplines—focus, patience, and incremental improvement—to rewire the mind and heal the spirit. His work ensures that those who have served their country have a welcoming community they can return to, proving that our deepest wounds can indeed become the source of our greatest purpose. Connect and Support the Mission You can learn more about Jonathan and the incredible work of the Warrior Golf Academy, including how to get involved, donate or access their resources at their website: https://warriorgolfacademy.com/ If you or someone you know is struggling, please reach out for help. In the US, you can call or text the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. We also encourage you to reach out to Heads Up Guys for mental health resources, tools and support. Join our mission to make golf more innovative, inclusive and fun... and WIN some awesome golf gear! As the creator and host of The ModGolf Podcast and YouTube channel I've been telling golf entrepreneurship and innovation stories since May 2017 and I love the community of ModGolfers that we are building. I'm excited to announce that I just launched our ModGolf Patreon page to bring together our close-knit community of golf-loving people! As my Patron you will get access to exclusive live monthly interactive shows where you can participate, ask-me-anything video events, bonus content, golf product discounts and entry in members-only ModGolf Giveaway contests. I'm offering two monthly membership tiers at $5 and $15 USD, but you can also join for free. Your subscription will ensure that The ModGolf Podcast continues to grow so that I can focus on creating unique and impactful stories that support and celebrate the future of golf. Click to join >> https://patreon.com/Modgolf I look forward to seeing you during an upcoming live show!... Colin We want to thank Golf Genius Software who have supported The ModGolf Podcast since 2019! Are you a golf course owner, manager or operator looking to increase both your profit margins and on-course experience? Golf Genius powers tournament management at over 10,000 private clubs, public courses, resorts, golf associations, and tours in over 60 countries. So if you’re a golf professional or course operator who wants to save time, deliver exceptional golfer experiences, and generate more revenue, check them out online at golfgenius.com . Special Guest: Jonathan Sessa - Founder of The Warrior Golf Academy.

Nov 5

In this episode of The ModGolf Podcast host Colin Weston sits down with Alex Prasad, the CEO of V1 Sports, a company that has been a cornerstone of golf technology for over three decades. Alex shares the journey of V1 Sports from its origins in pioneering video analysis to its current position as an innovator leveraging AI and ground force sensors. We dive deep into the pivotal "come-to-Jesus" moment that forced the company to re-evaluate its path, the cultural shift to a data-driven mindset, and how they are now using their new AI tool, "V1CTOR," to solve the biggest pain points for golf instructors - time and student engagement. This is a masterclass in business transformation, product-market fit, and building a platform that creates a true win-win-win for the company, the coach, and the golfer. During this episode you will discover these inspiring takeaways: Embrace the "Why" Behind the Data Learn how V1 Sports moved beyond assumptions by relentlessly asking "how do we know?" This shift to a data-validated culture gave them the courage to innovate confidently and build products based on proven user needs, not just gut feelings. Solve the Real Problem, Not the Stated One Discover how Alex and his team decoded the common complaint from pros that they "don't have enough time." They uncovered the deeper issue of seasonality and student re-engagement, leading to AI-driven solutions that automate relationship-building. Trust is Built by Providing Value First Hear how V1 Sports flipped the script on traditional coaching models. By using AI to facilitate a "Quick Fix"—a free, personalized piece of feedback—they create a gateway to trust between a golfer and a pro, proving value before a transaction ever occurs. Episode Chapters: (00:00) Introduction (01:29) The Power of Invitation: Alex's First Golf Experience (04:02) The Origin Story of V1 Sports (06:55) The Innovator's Dilemma: The Inflection Point for V1 (12:18) The Hard Work of Product Validation: Talking to Customers (16:11) The V1 Product Suite and the Introduction of "V1CTOR" AI (22:14) Building Trust in a Digital World (27:40) The V1 Business Model: A Two-Sided, Curated Marketplace (31:51) The Hardware Game: Ground Pressure Sensors and the Unseeable Data (34:33) Expanding to Other Sports? The Power of Focus (38:44) The Entrepreneurial Marathon: Lessons from Endurance Sports (43:30) How to Connect with Alex Prasad and V1 Sports Book referenced during our converation: The Innovator's Dilemma by Clayton M. Christensen Quotable Moments from Alex: On Challenging Assumptions: "Intuition can tell you where to look, but the data is going to validate or invalidate that's the right place to press." On Understanding Customer Needs: "What you learn is, customers can tell you their pain points, they can tell you their aspirations, but what they can't tell you is the solution... It's not their job. That's ours." On the Core Philosophy of V1's AI companion, V1CTOR: "The best way to build trust between a random person on the internet and a golf instructor is to show some value first." Are you more of a watcher than a listener? Then enjoy our video with Alex on The ModGolf YouTube channel . Click on this link or the image below. Want to connect with Alex? Check out his bio page to make that happen! Alex Prasad's bio page >> https://modgolf.fireside.fm/guests/alex-prasad Visit the V1 Sports website to learn more and to download the V1 Golf App in the Apple App Store or Google Play Store. Join our mission to make golf more innovative, inclusive and fun... and WIN some awesome golf gear! As the creator and host of The ModGolf Podcast and YouTube channel I've been telling golf entrepreneurship and innovation stories since May 2017 and I love the community of ModGolfers that we are building. I'm excited to announce that I just launched our ModGolf Patreon page to bring together our close-knit community of golf-loving people! As my Patron you will get access to exclusive live monthly interactive shows where you can participate, ask-me-anything video events, bonus content, golf product discounts and entry in members-only ModGolf Giveaway contests. I'm offering two monthly membership tiers at $5 and $15 USD, but you can also join for free. Your subscription will ensure that The ModGolf Podcast continues to grow so that I can focus on creating unique and impactful stories that support and celebrate the future of golf. Click to join >> https://patreon.com/Modgolf I look forward to seeing you during an upcoming live show!... Colin Special Guest: Alex Prasad - CEO at V1 Sports.

Oct 25

"Golf has been experiencing incredible growth and innovation and will continue to do so. But behind every great idea is a spark of capital and there was a gap. Broader sports investors weren't really paying attention to the category, and we thought, 'Maybe there's a huge opportunity here.'" Matt Erley is the Managing Partner of Old Tom Capital, a pioneering investment fund specifically focused on early-stage golf and golf-adjacent companies. With a career spanning operational roles and angel investing, Matt co-founded the firm to address a critical gap in the market, providing strategic capital to the innovators shaping the future of the $100 billion golf industry. Named as an homage to the legendary innovator Old Tom Morris, the fund embodies a belief in golf's resilient growth and the transformative power of backing great founders in spaces like agronomy, golf software, emerging media, and the "golf light" experience economy. During this episode you will discover these inspiring takeaways: 1. The "Unfair Advantage" for Founders Discover how an investment from Old Tom Capital is more than just money; it's a strategic partnership designed to give your company a leg up on the competition. Matt Erley reveals that their goal is to provide portfolio companies with an "unfair competitive advantage" through their deep network and operational expertise. Unlike passive investors, Old Tom actively helps its companies by making key introductions, offering strategic guidance, and leveraging synergies across their entire portfolio. For any founder or aspiring entrepreneur, this insight into what a true value-add investor looks like is invaluable and reveals how the right capital partner can accelerate growth. 2. The "Golf Light" Revolution Learn about the massive, under-the-radar investment trend that is making golf more accessible and creating the next wave of golfers. Move beyond traditional 18-hole courses and Topgolf. Matt introduces the compelling narrative of "Golf Light"—the high-growth category encompassing driving ranges, par-3 courses, and short courses. He explains why this segment is perfectly positioned to capture the new, "golf-curious" audience looking for a faster, less expensive, and more social experience. His investment in Blue Jeans Golf exemplifies this thesis, highlighting a huge opportunity to "glow up" thousands of independent driving ranges across the country. 3. How to Actually Get Noticed by a Golf Investor Cut through the noise and learn the specific milestones and mindset you need to successfully secure funding for your golf venture. Matt pulls back the curtain on Old Tom's investment process, offering a clear roadmap for founders. He explains why they typically avoid very early-stage "ideas" and what they look for instead: tangible momentum, initial monetization, and a clear path to a $100M+ business. He also debunks common mistakes, like leading with an NDA, and emphasizes the importance of simply starting to build and validate your concept in the accessible golf ecosystem. This practical advice is a must-listen for anyone serious about building a golf business. Episode Chapters: 00:00 - Introduction: The Capital Behind Golf's Innovation 02:18 - The Old Tom Capital Origin Story 04:08 - Building Conviction and the First Investment 07:50 - The Evolving Ecosystem of Golf Capital 10:26 - A Day in the Life: How Old Tom Vets Deals 13:15 - Advice for Founders: From NDA to Action 17:24 - Portfolio Deep Dive: Grass League & The Future of Golf Media 20:14 - Portfolio Deep Dive: Blue Jeans Golf & The "Golf Light" Revolution 28:23 - Creating Synergy: The LVMH of Golf? 31:29 - The Investor's Role: More Than Just a Cheque 36:39 - Navigating the AI Hype in Golf Innovation and Tech 41:03 - The Lightning Round: Tin Cup, Tech, and Dream Foursomes 45:08 - How to Connect with Matt and What Makes a Fundable Business Quotable Moments from Matt: On the unique opportunity in golf: "Golf has historically been a very sexy category to invest in, but it needs advocates internally who are showing outside investors that these are great places to invest because golf needs more capital. It's not going to just come from us. It needs to come from a lot of sources." On the philosophy behind their investments: "The moment we write a check, we like to think that we give that company an unfair competitive advantage because of who we are and what we put into it and the network that we've built." On the massive shift in how golf is consumed: "More people watch golf on YouTube than all linear television golf combined. And it's not cannibalizing the PGA Tour it's just being additive." Are you more of a watcher than a listener? Then enjoy our video with Matt on The ModGolf YouTube channel . Click on this link or the image below. Want to connect with Matt? Check out his bio page to make that happen! Matt Erley's bio page >> https://modgolf.fireside.fm/guests/matt-erley Are you an innovative founder struggling to find investors who truly understand the golf industry? Discover what it really takes to get funded in today's golf market as Matt shares how his firm provides an "unfair competitive advantage" and the one thing he tells every aspiring founder to do first. Visit the Old Tom Capital website to learn more and to connect. We want to thank Golf Genius Software for supporting The ModGolf Podcast since 2019! Are you a golf course owner, manager or operator looking to increase both your profit margins and on-course experience? Golf Genius powers tournament management at over 10,000 private clubs, public courses, resorts, golf associations, and tours in over 60 countries. So if you’re a golf professional or course operator who wants to save time, deliver exceptional golfer experiences, and generate more revenue, check them out online at golfgenius.com . Join our mission to make golf more innovative, inclusive and fun... and WIN some awesome golf gear! As the creator and host of The ModGolf Podcast and YouTube channel I've been telling golf entrepreneurship and innovation stories since May 2017 and I love the community of ModGolfers that we are building. I'm excited to announce that I just launched our ModGolf Patreon page to bring together our close-knit community of golf-loving people! As my Patron you will get access to exclusive live monthly interactive shows where you can participate, ask-me-anything video events, bonus content, golf product discounts and entry in members-only ModGolf Giveaway contests. I'm offering two monthly membership tiers at $5 and $15 USD, but you can also join for free. Your subscription will ensure that The ModGolf Podcast continues to grow so that I can focus on creating unique and impactful stories that support and celebrate the future of golf. Click to join >> https://patreon.com/Modgolf I look forward to seeing you during an upcoming live show!... Colin Special Guest: Matt Erley - Managing Partner at Old Tom Capital.