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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On this episode of Next on the Tee, I’m joined by two incredible guests who bring both legendary perspective and modern innovation to the game.

First up is my annual Masters week conversation with the great Gary Player. Mr. Player shares insights from his three Masters victories, how Mr. Palmer lost his focus and opened the door to Mr. Player's win in 1961, perhaps the greatest shot I've ever seen leading this win in '74, and how he nearly shot 27 on the back 9 in '78, leading to his 3rd Green Jacket. You'll also hear what it takes to develop a true championship mindset, how discipline, fitness, and preparation fueled his success and longevity in the game, and why his book Don't Choke should be required reading for every junior player. We finish talking about what today’s players can learn from the legends, and why growing the game and giving back remain so important to him.

Then, I’m joined by world-renowned golf course designer Agustin Piza, who takes us inside the art and strategy of course design. Augie explains what separates a good course from a great one, how architecture influences shot-making and decision-making, and how modern design is evolving for today’s golfer. He also shares stories from his work around the world, with Nicklaus Construction, Tom Fazio, and Gary Player, plus his involvement in designing holes for TGL. You'll also hear how Alister MacKenzie redesigned bunkers for the British military to help disguise where their soldiers were set up during World War 1.

Augie is a brilliant designer who thinks outside the box, has a fresh take, and an amazing artistic eye. His passion for design and the game shines throughout our conversation. You're really going to enjoy the segment.

This episode is a perfect blend of legendary wisdom and forward-thinking innovation—one that will not only entertain you but might just change the way you see and play the game.

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If you’re looking for golf tips, golf instruction, and unforgettable golf stories, this episode of Next on the Tee delivers all three.

On this episode I'm joined by Golf Magazine Top 100 Alumni Instructor Tom Patri and former PGA Tour pro and one of the most positive people on the planet, Jay Delsing, for a powerful mix of game-improvement advice, PGA Tour insights, and behind-the-scenes stories from the world of golf.

Tom Patri kicks things off by breaking down Matthew Fitzpatrick’s win at the Valspar Championship, including what set his game apart and what everyday golfers can learn from it. Tom also explains cross-handed chipping—why players like Fitzpatrick and Kevin Kisner use it, how it works, and whether it can help improve your short game. Plus, hear Tom’s thoughts on US President's Cup Captain Brandt Snedeker, who had a chance to win the Valspar, and early Masters predictions.

Then, Jay Delsing joins the show with stories that are almost too incredible to believe. From playing college golf at UCLA under legendary coach Eddie Merrins alongside stars like Corey Pavin and Duffy Waldorf, to unexpected rounds of golf with Sean Connery and encounters with Steven Spielberg and George Lucas, Jay shares unforgettable moments from his life in and around the game. He also reflects on his father’s Major League Baseball career, including a World Series win with the Yankees and unforgettable matchups against legends like Bob Feller.

Whether you want to lower your scores, improve your short game, or hear incredible golf stories from inside the ropes, this episode has something for you.

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