S13, Ep 16: Eric Johnson & Bob Friend Jr: Oakmont Stories, U.S. Open Memories, Baltusrol, Masters Picks & Golf Tips to Improve Your Game

This edition of Next on the Tee feels like a homecoming… as I’m joined by two longtime friends of the show and proud Pittsburgh natives who’ve each been with me since the very beginning.

First up is Golf Magazine Top 100 Instructor Eric Johnson. Eric has been a mainstay on that prestigious list for well over a decade, and his journey has taken him from 17 years at Oakmont…to Nemacolin…Yellowstone Club…and now to his new role as Director of Instruction at the legendary Baltusrol Golf Club. Eric shares what it’s been like stepping onto those historic grounds, reflects on last year’s U.S. Open at Oakmont, weighs in on Tiger’s latest challenges, and even gives us his picks for The Masters. Along the way, we share some laughs and pay tribute to a few special people who’ve helped shape his journey.

Then I’m joined by one of the game’s true grinders, Bob Friend Jr. Bob reflects on the work ethic that defined his career, what it was like being one of only a few players to ever qualify for the U.S. Open on his home course, Oakmont, in 1994, which was also Arnold Palmer’s final appearance. You'll hear about what it was like to be on the course that day, the challenge of putting on greens during a recent tournament when they were rolling at an unbelievable 18 on the stimp, plus a great Jack Nicklaus story and a simple tip that can help all of us play better right away.

It’s a fun, story-filled episode packed with insights, memories, and practical golf advice you can take straight to the course.

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