Join Jeff Tracy as he dives into an engaging conversation with Hughes Norton, author of the new book "Rainmaker," which chronicles the fascinating world of golf management and the rise of star players like Tiger Woods. Hughes shares insider stories from his time as a super agent, detailing how he transformed Tiger into a wealthy icon in the 90s while managing notable figures like Greg Norman and Pete Jacobson. The discussion goes beyond mere anecdotes, touching on the current dynamics of the golf industry, including the controversial LIV Tour and its implications for the sport. With humor and insight, Hughes reflects on memorable moments from the course and the importance of maintaining decorum in golf. Tune in for a blend of entertaining stories and valuable lessons for anyone interested in the game or the business behind it.

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• Painted Hills Natural Beef
• Liggett and Myers

Hughes Norton, a prominent sports agent, shares insights from his new book, "Rainmaker," which chronicles his experiences working in the world of professional golf, including his time with iconic clients like Tiger Woods and Greg Norman. The episode delves into the glamorous yet challenging lifestyle of a sports agent, highlighting the intense pressure to deliver results and the implications of personal relationships in the industry. Norton reflects on pivotal moments in his career, including his unexpected firings by both Tiger Woods and Mark McCormick, which reshaped his perspective on success and fulfillment. He emphasizes the importance of creativity and resilience in navigating the competitive landscape of sports management, drawing parallels between his journey and the evolution of the PGA Tour. Listeners are treated to behind-the-scenes stories that reveal the human side of high-stakes negotiations and the deep connections formed with clients over the years.

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• Painter Hills Natural Beef
• Oregon Crab Commission
• Golf News Network
• Westin dealerships
• Gatorade
• IMG (International Management Group)
• ABC Television Network
• Capital Cities Broadcasting
• Oregon Dungeness crab
• Nike

Join JT and his friend Jeff Peterson, also known as Weather Hack, for a lively conversation in this special After Hours edition of Grilling at the Green. The episode kicks off with Jeff sharing his insights on golf, including who he'd choose for a lesson and the dumbest thing he's witnessed on the course. As the discussion unfolds, they explore humorous anecdotes about golfing mistakes and the challenges of forecasting weather, particularly in the unpredictable Pacific Northwest. Jeff reflects on his military background, emphasizing the importance of treating others well and being true to oneself. The episode wraps up with light-hearted banter about music preferences and the perfect last meal, leaving listeners entertained and engaged.

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• Painted Hills Natural Beef
• Goodwill
• Folds of Honor

Join Jeff Tracy as he welcomes Jeff Peterson, a meteorologist and head of Golf Chat, to discuss the intersection of weather and golf. Peterson shares insights from his 22 years of service in the Air Force and how his military experience shaped his career in meteorology, emphasizing the importance of weather awareness for golfers. They delve into the dynamics of weather forecasting for airports and the impact of conditions like storms and snow on air traffic control. The conversation also touches on the lighter side of golf, including humorous anecdotes and the diverse golfing community that thrives on platforms like Golf Chat. With tips on managing your golf game and travel, this episode is packed with valuable information for enthusiasts and casual players alike.

Links referenced in this episode:

• birdieball.com
• paintedhillsbeef.com
• pigpowder.com
• westonkia.com
• heritagecookware.com
• hammerstahlknives.com
• golfchat.com

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• Painter Hills Natural Beef
• Oregon Crab Commission
• Weston Kia
• Birdie Ball
• Pig Powder

This special edition of "Grilling at the Green After Hours" dives deep into the ongoing tensions between the PGA Tour and LIV Golf, highlighting the challenges and complexities involved in their negotiations. JT and Gary discuss key figures such as Greg Norman and the impact of Tiger Woods on these discussions, emphasizing the difficulty of reaching a consensus when one side aims to eliminate the other. The conversation also touches on recent changes within the golf broadcasting landscape, including NBC's potential spin-off of Golf Channel and the implications for tournament coverage. As they explore the future of professional golf, they consider the need for innovative formats and the importance of keeping audiences engaged, especially during off-peak seasons. With insights into the shifting dynamics of golf, this episode offers a thought-provoking look at what lies ahead for the sport.

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• Painted Hills Natural Beef
• NBC
• Golf Channel
• USA Networks
• Peacock
• TNT

As the year comes to a close, Jeff Tracy and Gary Van Sickle delve into the significant changes and events that have shaped the golfing landscape in 2023. They discuss the PGA Tour's efforts to adapt to shifting audience preferences, highlighting the growing importance of digital media and the struggles traditional broadcasts face in retaining viewers. The conversation touches on the impact of LIV Golf and the fluctuating dynamics of player popularity, emphasizing how the sport's appeal can hinge on a few standout personalities. Jeff and Gary also explore the complexities surrounding the Ryder Cup and the growing trend of players seeking financial incentives, questioning the motives behind such decisions. With humor and insight, they reflect on the state of golf and what the future may hold as the sport navigates these evolving challenges.

Takeaways:

• The PGA Tour is adapting to changing media landscapes by collaborating with podcasters to reach younger audiences.
• Golf viewership is declining due to increased competition from streaming and online content options.
• Match play formats, such as the Ryder Cup, offer a more engaging viewing experience than traditional stroke play.
• The PGA Tour’s approach to event scheduling has become more scattered, affecting audience familiarity and engagement.
• Players' increasing focus on financial rewards may detract from the competitive spirit of events like the Ryder Cup.
• Women in golf face unique challenges in balancing careers with family, leading to shorter professional timelines.

Links referenced in this episode:

• amazonprime.com
• birdieball.com
• paintedhillsbeef.com

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• Westin
• Snell Golf
• Painted Hills
• Oregon Crab Commission
• Amazon

The latest installment of Grilling at the Green After Hours features an engaging and humorous dialogue between host JT and guest Chris Mascaro, who brings a unique perspective on golf and personal anecdotes that resonate with both avid golfers and casual listeners alike. The conversation flows effortlessly as they delve into the joys and challenges of the game, punctuated by Chris's amusing reflections on his unexpected role as a motorcycle gang leader in a fictional context. This light-hearted banter sets the tone for a deeper exploration of golf culture, touching upon the nuances of the sport, the importance of camaraderie, and the shared experiences among golfers.

Listeners are treated to a delightful mix of personal stories and insightful commentary, particularly when Chris reveals his admiration for golf legends. He expresses a desire to play a round with Jack Nicklaus, his childhood idol, and to receive short game lessons from Jordan Spieth, showcasing his appreciation for the intricacies of the game. As they discuss golf etiquette, Chris proposes a radical yet relatable decree for golfers: if your ball lands in a divot, a free drop should be granted. This humorous suggestion underscores the episode's central theme of enjoying the game without the burdens of traditional restrictions, reflecting a more relaxed modern approach to golfing.

The show culminates in a nostalgic reflection on the passage of time, with Chris reminiscing about the carefree days of his youth, contrasting them with the responsibilities of adulthood. Their discussions touch on the physical demands of the sport and aging, leading to a humorous consensus that many golfers today might relate to. With a blend of humor, nostalgia, and passion for golf, this episode of Grilling at the Green After Hours offers an enriching listening experience that leaves the audience not only entertained but also contemplating their own golfing journeys.

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• Painted Hills Natural Beef

Chris Mascaro of the Golf News Network chat with JT in this Encore