Matt Ginella is a longtime golf journalist, storyteller, and founder of Fire Pit Collective, a media company dedicated to celebrating the game, its people, and its culture. From his days at Golf Digest and Golf Channel to building one of the most authentic voices in modern golf media, Matt has been at the center of how we see and experience the game today.

The latest episode of Golf Don't Lie dives deep into the life and career of Matt Ginella, a name synonymous with golf storytelling and travel. We kick things off by reflecting on Matt's journey from his days at the Golf Channel, where he was known as the 'golf trip guy', to the founding of Fire Pit Productions—a venture that has undergone significant transformation and growth. Matt shares insights into the challenges faced during the early days of his company, particularly during the pandemic, and how he adapted to turn those challenges into opportunities. His recent acquisition by Kemper Sports marks a pivotal moment, positioning Fire Pit Productions to create compelling narratives around some of the most iconic golf courses in the country, including the likes of Gamble Sands and Stream Song. The conversation flows seamlessly as we explore the importance of storytelling in golf, the impact of community-driven golf courses, and the unique experiences that make each destination special. We also touch on Matt's personal life, highlighting the balance he strives to maintain between his passion for golf and his family commitments, especially as a father to a young son who is just beginning to discover the game. This episode is packed with rich narratives, engaging anecdotes, and valuable lessons about resilience, creativity, and the ever-evolving relationship between golf and personal growth.

Takeaways:

• The evolution of Matt Ginella's career from Golf Channel to Fire Pit Productions illustrates the importance of adaptability in the fast-paced world of media and storytelling.
• The podcast emphasizes the community aspect of golf, highlighting how places like Goat Hill Park thrive on inclusivity and the joy of playing together.
• Matt shared insights on how golf inherently teaches humility, showing that even the best players can face challenges and reminding us to remain grounded in our self-perception.
• Youth on Course is a powerful program that makes golf accessible to underprivileged kids, showcasing the impact of affordability and community support in expanding the sport's reach.

Sam Goulden is the founder of MNML Golf, a brand revolutionizing the golf bag industry with a focus on sustainability and community-building. In our conversation, we dive deep into his journey from teaching golf to launching a brand that emphasizes quality and environmental consciousness. Sam shares how his passion for the game and a desire to challenge the norm in golf equipment led to the creation of bags that not only look good but also last longer and reduce waste.

Throughout the episode, we explore key themes like the importance of craftsmanship in golf gear, the shift towards inclusivity in the sport, and how golf can foster a sense of community among players. Sam discusses his unique approach to bag design, including innovative features like magnetic closures and a focus on durable materials, which set Minimal apart in a crowded market. His insights into the evolving culture of golf highlight the blend of tradition and modernity that appeals to a new generation of golfers.

Join us as we unpack what it means to grow the game authentically and how Sam's commitment to quality and sustainability aligns with the greater goal of making golf accessible and enjoyable for everyone.

Sam Goulden: Building Community Through Golf and Innovation

Takeaways:

• Staying hydrated is key during long rounds to maintain energy and focus.
• The importance of a solid pre-shot routine to enhance performance and achieve flow state.
• Competitive golf requires mental preparedness and the right fuel to perform well under pressure.
• Maintaining golf bags sustainably can reduce environmental impact and promote responsible consumerism.
• Customization and personal touches on golf gear can create meaningful connections within the golfing community.
• Building a supportive golf community helps grow the game and enriches the experience for players of all levels.

Today’s episode dives into the intricate mental game of golf, featuring Dr. Gaston Cordova, who breaks down the connection between our physical performance on the course and our mental state. The core takeaway here is that mastering your game isn’t just about swing mechanics; it’s also about mastering your mind and body, especially when faced with adversity on the course. We chat about how self-talk and visualization play critical roles in maintaining composure after a bad shot or a tough hole, emphasizing that slowing down our body is essential to calming our racing minds. Plus, we explore techniques like breath control and the power of a positive mindset, illustrating that these practices can transform your performance and overall experience in the game. Whether you’re a weekend warrior or a seasoned pro, the insights shared in this episode will resonate with anyone looking to elevate their golf game and life.

Takeaways:

• Golf is a journey of constant learning and adaptation, reflecting the unpredictable nature of life.
• The mental aspects of golf, including visualization and mindfulness, can significantly enhance performance on the course.
• Preparation is key; both mental and physical readiness paves the way for success in golf and beyond.
• To overcome challenges on the course, it's crucial to calm the body first to settle the mind for better clarity.
• Self-mastery in golf involves recognizing and managing self-talk, especially when under pressure during rounds.
• Embracing a heart-centered approach in golf can lead to improved performance and a more fulfilling experience.