Golf And Politics

By: Reach Right Network
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  • Summary

  • Is it possible to bring Republicans and Democrats together? Maybe. Rob Ellsworth, Matt Parker and Cory Toth grew up in the upper Ohio Valley playing junior golf, and today they all work in politics. Rob is a Democratic lobbyist, Matt is a Republican strategist, and Cory is a refining and petrochemical lobbyist. While they rarely all see eye-to-eye on politics, they wholeheartedly agree that golf is the greatest game ever invented and are passionate about expanding it.
    Reach Right Network
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Golf Political Science
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Episodes
  • Episode 31 - 9 Holes 9 Questions with D1 Golfer at K-State JP Roller

    Episode 31 - 9 Holes 9 Questions with D1 Golfer at K-State JP Roller
    Jan 8 2025
    In this episode of Golf and Politics, Matt Parker plays nine holes with JP Roller, a Kansas State golfer with deep ties to the game. During their round they discuss JP's family golf legacy, his transition through college golf programs, and the mental toughness required to excel in competitive golf. The conversation also delves into JP’s perspectives on pace of play, NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) deals in college sports, and the political climate on college campuses. The episode blends lighthearted banter with serious discussions, including JP’s dream foursome featuring Donald Trump, Michael Jordan, and Jordan Spieth, his time playing with Ludvig Aberg and the value of golf in creating connections across diverse backgrounds. This engaging mix of sports and politics offers a unique perspective on the intersection of competition, camaraderie, and culture. Takeaways A Family Legacy in Golf: JP Roller grew up immersed in golf, with a mother who competed in two U.S. Opens, a father who coached high school golf, and a sister playing Division I college golf. The Mental and Physical Grind of College Golf: JP shares the pressures of playing at the collegiate level, navigating transfers from Texas Tech to Kansas State, and recovering from a wrist injury while maintaining his game. Pace of Play: A Growing Concern: JP reflects on how slow play affects both professional and college tournaments, emphasizing the need for faster rounds to improve the overall experience for players and spectators. The Impact of NIL Deals on College Golf: NIL deals are growing in college golf, but JP expresses concern that they might detract from the amateur spirit of the sport. Political Climate on College Campuses: As a politically engaged student, JP discusses the challenges of navigating differing ideologies on campus and how political bias sometimes manifests in academic settings. Dream Foursome Revealed: JP’s ideal group includes Donald Trump, Michael Jordan, and Jordan Spieth, combining a love for golf, competitive spirit, and unique personalities. Golf as a Tool for Connection: JP highlights how golf serves as a platform for building relationships, sharing ideas, and finding common ground, even across political and cultural divides. Get the full video version: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCYJlYfWps6ip7PQvHzniDfw Listen to the audio version: https://link.chtbl.com/CtYwP8fV Join the email list to be notified about the latest episodes: https://golfandpolitics.com
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    36 mins
  • Episode 30 - Rob’s Year of Yes (Part 2) | Completing the U.S. Top 100 Courses List

    Episode 30 - Rob’s Year of Yes (Part 2) | Completing the U.S. Top 100 Courses List
    Jan 1 2025
    In this episode of Golf and Politics, Matt Parker and Rob Ellsworth continue the journey through Rob’s incredible 2024 in which he completes the U.S. top 100 courses. Playing 212 rounds on 165 courses across 25 states and multiple countries, Rob shares highlights from bucket-list destinations, including St. Andrews, Shinnecock Hills, and Fisher’s Island. The discussion delves into the personal and professional relationships built through golf and explores how the sport serves as a bridge for connection, even in politically polarized times. The episode underscores the importance of saying "yes" to opportunities, cherishing relationships, and taking a step back from the intensity of daily political life. The hosts also share their aspirations for Golf and Politics, teasing future events that bring people together on and off the course. Saying Yes Unlocks Incredible Experiences: Rob’s “Year of Yes” resulted in over 200 rounds of golf, fostering connections, and experiencing some of the world’s most renowned courses. Golf Creates Lifelong Connections: Over the year, Rob met and played with more than 500 people, demonstrating golf’s ability to form meaningful personal and professional relationships. Golf and Politics Bridge Divides: The podcast reflects on how the sport facilitates dialogue and camaraderie, offering a space to connect across political and ideological differences. Mental Health Matters in Polarized Times: Taking a step back from cable news and daily political turmoil, Rob emphasizes the therapeutic nature of golf and how it provides balance in a divided world. Future Plans for Golf and Politics: Rob and Matt preview exciting 2025 initiatives, including a Ryder Cup-style event where Republicans and Democrats compete while fostering mutual respect and dialogue. Memories Over Money: The relationships and experiences Rob cultivated in 2024 are described as more valuable than any financial success or professional milestone. Get the full video version: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCYJlYfWps6ip7PQvHzniDfw Listen to the audio version: https://link.chtbl.com/CtYwP8fV Join the email list to be notified about the latest episodes: https://golfandpolitics.com
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    1 hr and 18 mins
  • Episode 29 - Rob’s Year of Yes (Part 1) | One of the Greatest Years of Golf

    Episode 29 - Rob’s Year of Yes (Part 1) | One of the Greatest Years of Golf
    Dec 31 2024
    In this special year-in-review episode of Golf and Politics, Matt Parker interviews co-host Rob Ellsworth about his incredible 2024, during which he played 212 rounds of golf across 165 courses in the U.S. and abroad. After overcoming significant health challenges in prior years, Rob embraced a "Year of Yes," taking every opportunity to travel, play, and connect with people through golf. The episode highlights bucket-list courses like Pine Valley, Ballybunion, St. Andrews, and Shadow Creek, along with hidden gems such as Sharon Golf Club. Rob and Matt Parker recount memorable moments, from playing with Hall of Famers Meg Mallon and Beth Daniel to rounds at Michael Jordan’s Grove XXIII. They discuss how golf creates lifelong friendships, the balance between luxury and rugged experiences, and the thrill of crossing courses off their bucket lists. This episode also explores how golf intersects with community programs, accessibility, and cherished memories, making it much more than just a game. 7 Key Takeaways: The Year of Yes Transformed Rob’s Life and Game: Living life with a mindset of yes first, opens you up to more opportunities and experiences. Bucket List Achievements: Pine Valley, Ballybunion, and St. Andrews: Iconic courses like Pine Valley and the Old Course at St. Andrews provided breathtaking and challenging experiences, while less famous gems added charm and variety. Golf’s Role in Building Relationships: Over the year, Rob played with 500 people, from friends to strangers, highlighting golf as a unique way to create deep connections. From Shadow Creek to Sharon Golf Club: Diverse Course Experiences: Rob experienced everything from luxury courses like Shadow Creek to understated gems like Sharon Golf Club, showcasing the full spectrum of the game. Michael Jordan’s Grove XXIII Delivers an Unforgettable Experience: Playing at MJ’s exclusive course combined world-class golf with a laid-back vibe, including rounds with PGA Tour veterans and an encounter with Jordan himself. Golf Accessibility and Community Impact: Courses like The Park in West Palm Beach demonstrate how great design and strategic pricing can make golf more inclusive and impactful for local communities. Golf is About Memories, Not Just Scores: Beyond the game itself, Rob emphasized the importance of creating memories, whether through trips, friendships, or the simple joy of playing the sport. Get the full video version: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCYJlYfWps6ip7PQvHzniDfw Listen to the audio version: https://link.chtbl.com/CtYwP8fV Join the email list to be notified about the latest episodes: https://golfandpolitics.com
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    59 mins

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