The Golf Sit Down

In this episode of The Golf Sit Down, Ryan and Seth sit down with Ben Polland, PGA, Director of Golf at Shooting Star (WY) and reigning 2024 PGA Professional Champion. Ben shares his incredible journey from late-blooming high school golfer to competing on the Korn Ferry Tour, PGA TOUR events, and representing the PGA of America internationally.
We dig into:
• Why competing often is the fastest way to grow• The mental game shift that changed Ben’s career• How to pick a great coach (and when to move on)• Why junior golfers MUST play more tournaments• What Ben learned playing with Scottie Scheffler• How to practice with purpose — even while working full-time
If you're a junior golfer, parent, coach, or competitive golf nerd, this episode is packed with insights you can use TODAY.
👉 Like, comment, and subscribe for more elite-level conversations!Hosts: Ryan Dailey, PGA & Seth Thompson, PGAExecutive Producer: A.J. ReimannFind The Golf Sit Down: https://linktr.ee/TheGolfSitDown
⏱️ Chapter Markers
00:00 – Intro: Welcome Ben Pollin, PGA00:09 – Ben’s background & growing up in Minnesota02:00 – Choosing golf over baseball03:00 – Why Ben chose Campbell University04:10 – Early struggles & learning modern instruction06:00 – Internships at Sebonack & Deepdale07:30 – First major success & qualifying for nationals09:40 – Turning pro & chasing the tour dream11:00 – Competing to get better14:00 – Playing with Scottie Scheffler17:00 – Learning from elite players19:00 – When self-belief finally clicked21:00 – Pressure on tour vs. freedom now23:00 – Managing a team while competing24:30 – The importance of good coaching27:20 – How to know if coaching is working30:20 – Grip changes & experimentation32:38 – Junior golf challenges & building programs33:49 – How tournaments shape young players35:49 – The Catherine Andino story37:30 – How many tournaments juniors should play38:52 – Mental freedom & pressure39:50 – Why nerves are GOOD41:38 – Big takeaways for parents & juniors42:47 – Growth & comfort don’t coexist43:26 – Closing thoughts & gratitude
#GolfPodcast #PGA #BenPollin #GolfTips #JuniorGolf #GolfImprovement #PGAProfessional #GolfMindset #GolfTraining #CompetitionGolf #KornFerryTour #GolfParents #GolfJourney

In this episode of The Golf Sit Down, Ryan Dailey and Seth Thompson sit down with Randall Henry, CEO of Henry-Griffitts, one of golf’s most respected custom-fitting companies.
Randall shares incredible behind-the-scenes stories from decades in the golf industry — from tour players in the 1980s to revolutionizing how juniors and beginners get fit today.
We break down:
Why most golfers are using clubs that are too strong
How ill-fitting clubs create lifelong swing flaws
Why lie angle matters more than you think
How Henry-Griffitts and Op36 are reinventing junior club fitting
Personal stories from tour ranges, Bill Russell's clubs, and what REALLY happens with off-the-rack sets
If you're a parent, coach, or golfer wanting to improve faster, this episode is packed with insights that will completely change the way you think about equipment.
Check out the new Operation 36 Golf Clubs Herehttps://op36shop.com/products/clubs
🎙️ Subscribe for more conversations with top coaches and educators shaping the future of golf learning.
Hosts: Ryan Dailey, PGA & Seth Thompson, PGAExecutive Producer: A.J. ReimannFind The Golf Sit Down: https://linktr.ee/TheGolfSitDown
#GolfPodcast #ClubFitting #HenryGriffitts #Op36 #JuniorGolf #GolfCoaching #GolfEquipment #GolfTips #CustomFitting #GolfSwing

In this episode of The Golf Sit Down, Ryan Dailey and Seth Thompson welcome Ty Gosnell, founder of The Players Golf Academy of Charleston and Director of Instruction at Rivertown Country Club.
Ty shares his journey from a multi-sport athlete to a seasoned PGA coach, the lessons he’s learned about player development, burnout, and the importance of helping kids fall in love with the grind—not just the game.
He discusses:How playing multiple sports builds better golfersWhy travel sports can lead to burnoutThe key ages when young golfers struggle to stay engagedCoaching strategies to build passion and creativityHis philosophy on learning through fun and process over outcomeWhether you’re a golf parent, coach, or player, this episode is full of wisdom about long-term player development and keeping the game fun.
👉 Connect with Ty Gosnell:📍 Instagram: @tygosnellgolf📧  tymgosnell@gmail.com
🎙️ Subscribe for more conversations with top coaches and educators shaping the future of golf learning.
Hosts: Ryan Dailey, PGA & Seth Thompson, PGAExecutive Producer: A.J. ReimannFind The Golf Sit Down: https://linktr.ee/TheGolfSitDown
⏱️ Chapter Markers
00:00 – Intro: Welcome & Guest Intro00:35 – Ty’s Journey from Multi-Sport Athlete to Golf Coach03:28 – Discovering Operation 3605:33 – The Problem with Travel Sports & Burnout09:49 – Learning to Love the Game Again10:57 – The Two Hardest Ages for Golfers (9–11 & 15–17)13:24 – First Car & Early Coaching Lessons15:00 – Sparking Passion in Players18:22 – Why Ty Hires Tour Players as Coaches23:40 – What Tour Players Do Differently25:15 – The Story of “Elizabeth” & Patience in Coaching30:00 – Falling in Love with the Process33:50 – Top Third of the Leaderboard Mindset38:10 – Coaching Philosophy: Swing vs Hit43:19 – Making Practice Fun at Every Age47:20 – Trash Can Targets & Gamifying Learning48:41 – How to Connect with Ty Gosnell50:15 – Final Thoughts & Rubbermaid Challenge
#Operation36Golf #GolfPodcast #TyGosnell #JuniorGolf #GolfCoaching #GolfParentTips #PGAProfessional #GolfDevelopment #GolfTraining #GrowTheGame #GolfMindset #MasterTheMundane #CharlestonGolf #GolfPassion

In this episode of The Golf Sit Down, hosts Ryan Dailey, Seth Thompson, and AJ Reimann welcome world-renowned coach David Orr.
With over 30 years of coaching experience and 16 years of putting research, David has worked with more than 85 Tour players — including Justin Rose, Suzanne Pettersen, Paul Casey, and multiple Ryder Cup and Solheim Cup players.
We dive deep into:
How juniors actually develop golf skills on the course, not the rangeThe importance of reps, emotional regulation, and “fear loops” in golfLessons David learned coaching college players, tour players, and juniorsWhy most kids’ putters are too heavy, too long, or just plain wrongThe mental game difference between playing and performingGenetics, reps, and the hidden factors that shape golf development
This episode is a must-listen for parents, coaches, and golfers who want to understand the real process of long-term player development.
📢 Learn more about David Orr:🔗 Flatstick Academy – [https://flatstickacademy.com/]
🎙 Follow Operation 36 Golf:✅ Subscribe for more conversations with leaders in junior golf & coaching🔔 Turn on notifications so you never miss an episode
Hosts: Ryan Dailey, PGA & Seth Thompson, PGAExecutive Producer: A.J. ReimannFind The Golf Sit Down: https://linktr.ee/TheGolfSitDown
⏱️ CHAPTER MARKERS
00:00 – Intro & Welcome David Orr01:00 – Campbell Days & Mentorship in Golf Coaching02:30 – Why Juniors Must Learn Golf on the Course, Not the Range05:00 – No Gimmies in Operation 36: The Importance of Holing Out06:20 – Four Environments of Learning (Mat, Practice Green, Course, Tournament)08:30 – David’s Phases: Player → Coach → Putting Specialist10:30 – Early Playing Career & Transition into Coaching13:50 – Working with Justin Rose & Coaching on Tour15:00 – Why Putting is an “Arranged Marriage”17:00 – Trauma, Fear Loops & Mental Blocks in Putting20:00 – Mechanics vs Skill: Why Stroke Fixes Aren’t Enough22:00 – Parents, Pressure & Junior Golf Development26:00 – Parenting Lessons from Sports & Soccer Coaching28:30 – Fine Motor Coordination & Putter Fitting for Juniors32:00 – Why Most Junior Putters Are Too Heavy or Too Long35:00 – Aim, Roll, Stop → Face, Head, Shaft Fundamentals38:00 – Why True Skills Must Travel (Different Grasses & Greens)44:00 – Acclimating Quickly: Stories from Tour Practice Rounds50:00 – Mental Skills: Emotional Regulation, Visualization & Recall55:00 – Coaching vs Teaching: David’s Philosophy1:01:00 – KISS Method: Fitting Junior Golf Putters1:08:00 – When Kids Should Start Seeing a Putting Specialist1:12:00 – Building Juniors “Different” from Everyone Else1:15:00 – Closing Thoughts & Takeaways
#Operation36Golf #DavidOrr #FlatstickAcademy #PuttingCoach #GolfPodcast #JuniorGolf #GolfCoaching #GolfDevelopment #GolfParents #GolfTips #PGA #Putting

In this episode of The Golf Sit Down Podcast, we chat with Maggie Simons, Director of Instruction at Oregon Golf Club, about her incredible journey from a late start in junior golf to playing Division I at Wake Forest, competing professionally, and ultimately becoming one of the most respected coaches in the Pacific Northwest.
Maggie shares her insights on:⛳ Why early specialization can hurt more than it helps🏀 The value of multi-sport participation for juniors📈 How to manage expectations through growth spurts and development💡 Creating a fun, welcoming culture that retains golfers for life🏆 Lessons from playing in an LPGA Tour event and how competition shapes players👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Coaching parents through the ups and downs of junior golf
Whether you’re a coach, parent, or player, this episode will inspire you to focus on what truly matters—developing a lifelong love for the game.
👍 Like, subscribe, and share this episode with anyone who wants to grow the game and support the next generation of golfers.
Hosts: Ryan Dailey, PGA & Seth Thompson, PGA
Executive Producer: A.J. Reimann
Find The Golf Sit Down: https://linktr.ee/TheGolfSitDown
Where to find Maggie Simonshttps://www.instagram.com/msimons21?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=MWswamRqZWN5YW03Zw==
Chapters
00:00 Investing in Quality Gear00:32 Maggie's Journey in Golf03:45 The Importance of Diverse Sports06:50 Managing Growth and Expectations09:45 Emotional Development in Golf21:48 Mindset and Performance25:06 Navigating Competition in Youth Golf31:32 The Path to College Golf: Insights and Strategies37:13 Finding Balance: Golf as a Passion, Not an Identity40:22 Creating a Fun and Supportive Golf Environment49:40 Reflections on Competition and Community Support55:03 Embracing Technology and Future Aspirations
#GolfPodcast #MaggieSimons #YouthGolf #GolfDevelopment #Operation36 #JuniorGolf #GolfCoaching #GrowthMindset #PositiveCulture #WomenInGolf #WakeForestGolf #GolfParents #GolfCompetition #GolfJourney #GolfCommunity

In this episode of The Golf Sit Down Podcast, we sit down with Andreas Kali, head coach of the Danish Junior Golf Academy. Andreas shares his journey from junior golf in Denmark to competing in college and turning professional, before finding his true passion in coaching.
We discuss the importance of mentorship, group training, player accountability, culture, and long-term development. Andreas emphasizes how fostering a love for the game, rather than focusing only on early results, creates players who not only succeed on tour but also stay connected to golf for life.
From stories about coaching elite players like Rasmus Nygaard-Peterson (12th at the U.S. Open) to lessons on building positive environments and handling parental expectations, this conversation is packed with insights for coaches, parents, and players alike.
👉 If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, like, and share with someone who could benefit from these coaching insights!
Hosts: Ryan Dailey, PGA & Seth Thompson, PGA
Executive Producer: A.J. Reimann
Find The Golf Sit Down: https://linktr.ee/TheGolfSitDown
Where to find Andreas Kalihttps://andreaskaligolf.com/https://www.instagram.com/andreaskaligolf/?hl=en
Chapters
00:00 The Challenges of Professional Golf00:34 Coaching Philosophy and Student Empowerment09:01 Empowering Young Golfers10:14 Choosing the Right Coach11:53 The Importance of Player Engagement12:59 Identifying Successful Traits in Players13:38 The Role of Parental Support18:48 The Pressure of Expectations20:44 The Value of Group Training26:56 Balancing Individual and Group Instruction28:13 Cultivating Passion for the Game32:40 The Evolution of Coaching Philosophy37:52 Managing Player Emotions and Expectations41:01 Building Resilience in Young Athletes42:41 Shifts in Coaching Techniques Over Time45:16 Holistic Approach to Player Development47:01 Creating a Positive Training Environment48:24 Future Aspirations in Coaching
#GolfPodcast #YouthGolf #GolfCoaching #PlayerDevelopment #GrowthMindset #JuniorGolf #Operation36 #GolfCulture #AndreasKali #GolfAcademy #Mentorship #LongTermDevelopment #PositiveCoaching

In this conversation, Wendi Wiese shares her journey in golf, from her early experiences to her innovative teaching methods at Texas Team Junior Golf. She emphasizes the importance of play in learning, emotional intelligence in coaching, and the role of parents in supporting young golfers. Wendi provides valuable insights for aspiring players and discusses how to foster a positive learning environment that encourages self-discovery and resilience.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Test Call Feedback00:28 Long-Term Development in Golf00:55 Wendi's Journey in Golf08:12 Traditional vs. Modern Golf Instruction10:51 The Importance of Community in Golf12:57 Coaching with Constraints19:59 Choices in Golf Practice Games21:24 Creating a Supportive Environment for Young Athletes23:46 The Importance of Consistency in Practice26:20 Emotional Intelligence in Sports34:22 Learning from Failure and Parental Support
Hosts: Ryan Dailey, PGA & Seth Thompson, PGA
Executive Producer: A.J. Reimann
Find The Golf Sit Down: https://linktr.ee/TheGolfSitDown
Where to find Wendi Wiesehttps://www.instagram.com/coachwendiwiese?igsh=aGc3bGxrNTdxbXQx

In this episode, coach Andrew Kiger shares his journey from baseball to golf and how mentorship and a service mindset shaped his approach to youth sports. He dives into common developmental mistakes, the importance of practice plans, discipline, and fostering a positive culture where young athletes thrive. With a focus on accountability and long-term growth, Kiger explains how coaches can inspire love for the game—and how that passion leads to real success.
Chapters00:00 Introduction and Background02:08 Mentorship and the Service Mindset07:14 Parental Expectations and Their Impact12:39 Keys to Success in College Golf18:09 Balancing Passion and Commitment24:07 The Importance of Long-Term Coaching29:27 Navigating Parent Conversations33:54 Creating a Positive Golf Culture43:38 Ending
Hosts: Ryan Dailey, PGA & Seth Thompson, PGA
Executive Producer: A.J. Reimann
Find The Golf Sit Down: https://linktr.ee/TheGolfSitDown
Where to find Andrew Kigerhttps://andrewkigergolf.com/
#GolfCoaching #YouthSports #GrowthMindset #Mentorship #LongTermDevelopment #PositiveCulture #PracticePlans #GolfPodcast #CoachLife #AthleteDevelopment #ServiceMindset #Accountability #GolfCulture

In this engaging conversation, Yu-kai Chou, a renowned gamification expert, discusses the principles of gamification and its application in various fields, including sports and education. He introduces the Octalysis framework, which breaks down human motivation into eight core drives, and shares insights on how these drives can be leveraged to enhance engagement and performance. The discussion also touches on the importance of intrinsic motivation, the impact of burnout, and the need to reinforce identity beyond performance metrics, especially in young athletes.
Hosts: Ryan Dailey, PGA & Seth Thompson, PGA
Executive Producer: A.J. Reimann
Find The Golf Sit Down: https://linktr.ee/TheGolfSitDown
Takeaways
Gamification can make life more enjoyable and productive.The Octalysis framework identifies eight core drives of human motivation.Understanding intrinsic vs. extrinsic motivation is crucial for engagement.Burnout often stems from black hat motivation and performance pressure.Reinforcing identity beyond performance helps prevent burnout in young athletes.Gamification strategies can be applied in sports and education.Curiosity is essential for learning and should be nurtured.Age influences motivation and the perception of success.Positive reinforcement should focus on effort and character, not just results.Parents should avoid projecting their expectations onto their children. 
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Gamification and Life Transformation02:20 Core Drives of Human Motivation07:51 Intrinsic vs. Extrinsic Motivation in Sports12:20 The Joy of the Game18:29 The Role of Gamification24:26 Navigating Parental Expectations31:13 End
 
#YuKaiChou #Gamification #Octalysis #YouthSports #IntrinsicMotivation #PerformancePsychology #SportsDevelopment #GamifyEducation #BurnoutPrevention #IdentityBeyondWinning #615 #TheGolfSitDown #GolfSitDownPodcast #TGSChats #GolfProfessionals #GolfCoaches #GolfDads #GolfMoms #WomenInGolf #GrowTheGame #FutureGolfers #GolfLife #GolfTalk #GolfTips #GolfAddict #GolfGram #InstaGolf #GolfVibes #GolfSwing #GolfDay #GolferLife #GolfTime #GolfChat #GolfCommunity #GolfJourney #SitDownWithUs #TalkGolfToMe #InsideTheGame #PGAJL

In this conversation, the hosts discuss various aspects of golf coaching and development with guest Iain Highfield. They explore the importance of focusing on the process rather than just outcomes, the role of self-doubt in performance, and the significance of grit and resilience in young athletes. The discussion also touches on effective praise strategies, the balance between technical skills and mental performance, and learning from other sports. Ian shares insights on creating a supportive environment for athletes and emphasizes the need for variability in practice to enhance learning and retention.
Takeaways
Happiness comes from engaging with the process, not just outcomes.Self-doubt can be beneficial for focus and performance.Praise should focus on effort and process, not just results.Grit and resilience are key to long-term success in sports.Technical improvement requires a balance of practice and mental skills.Learning from failure is essential for growth and development.Creating a supportive environment helps athletes thrive.The importance of variability in practice for skill retention.Understanding the psychological aspects of performance is crucial.Engaging with the sport contextually enhances learning.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction04:06 Long-Term Golf Development Strategies09:33 Personal Backgrounds and Perspectives15:30 The Importance of Happiness in the Process23:06 The Role of Praise in Development30:48 Accountability in Junior Sports35:41 Developing Grit and Resilience41:02 Constraints-Led Learning in Golf Training46:22 The Role of Technique in Skill Development51:27 Balancing Practice: Block vs. Massed Practice57:00 ending
Hosts: Ryan Dailey, PGA & Seth Thompson, PGA
Executive Producer: A.J. Reimann
Find The Golf Sit Down: https://linktr.ee/TheGolfSitDown
#GolfCoaching #MentalGame #YouthSports #IainHighfield #GolfDevelopment