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 range The importance of reps, emotional regulation, and “fear loops” in golf Lessons David learned coaching college players, tour players, and juniors Why most kids’ putters are too heavy, too long, or just plain wrong The mental game difference between playing and performing Genetics, 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, PGA Executive Producer: A.J. Reimann Find The Golf Sit Down: https://linktr.ee/TheGolfSitDown

⏱️ CHAPTER MARKERS

00:00 – Intro & Welcome David Orr 01:00 – Campbell Days & Mentorship in Golf Coaching 02:30 – Why Juniors Must Learn Golf on the Course, Not the Range 05:00 – No Gimmies in Operation 36: The Importance of Holing Out 06:20 – Four Environments of Learning (Mat, Practice Green, Course, Tournament) 08:30 – David’s Phases: Player → Coach → Putting Specialist 10:30 – Early Playing Career & Transition into Coaching 13:50 – Working with Justin Rose & Coaching on Tour 15:00 – Why Putting is an “Arranged Marriage” 17:00 – Trauma, Fear Loops & Mental Blocks in Putting 20:00 – Mechanics vs Skill: Why Stroke Fixes Aren’t Enough 22:00 – Parents, Pressure & Junior Golf Development 26:00 – Parenting Lessons from Sports & Soccer Coaching 28:30 – Fine Motor Coordination & Putter Fitting for Juniors 32:00 – Why Most Junior Putters Are Too Heavy or Too Long 35:00 – Aim, Roll, Stop → Face, Head, Shaft Fundamentals 38:00 – Why True Skills Must Travel (Different Grasses & Greens) 44:00 – Acclimating Quickly: Stories from Tour Practice Rounds 50:00 – Mental Skills: Emotional Regulation, Visualization & Recall 55:00 – Coaching vs Teaching: David’s Philosophy 1:01:00 – KISS Method: Fitting Junior Golf Putters 1:08:00 – When Kids Should Start Seeing a Putting Specialist 1:12:00 – Building Juniors “Different” from Everyone Else 1:15:00 – 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 Simons https://www.instagram.com/msimons21?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=MWswamRqZWN5YW03Zw==

Chapters

00:00 Investing in Quality Gear 00:32 Maggie's Journey in Golf 03:45 The Importance of Diverse Sports 06:50 Managing Growth and Expectations 09:45 Emotional Development in Golf 21:48 Mindset and Performance 25:06 Navigating Competition in Youth Golf 31:32 The Path to College Golf: Insights and Strategies 37:13 Finding Balance: Golf as a Passion, Not an Identity 40:22 Creating a Fun and Supportive Golf Environment 49:40 Reflections on Competition and Community Support 55:03 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 Kali https://andreaskaligolf.com/ https://www.instagram.com/andreaskaligolf/?hl=en

Chapters

00:00 The Challenges of Professional Golf 00:34 Coaching Philosophy and Student Empowerment 09:01 Empowering Young Golfers 10:14 Choosing the Right Coach 11:53 The Importance of Player Engagement 12:59 Identifying Successful Traits in Players 13:38 The Role of Parental Support 18:48 The Pressure of Expectations 20:44 The Value of Group Training 26:56 Balancing Individual and Group Instruction 28:13 Cultivating Passion for the Game 32:40 The Evolution of Coaching Philosophy 37:52 Managing Player Emotions and Expectations 41:01 Building Resilience in Young Athletes 42:41 Shifts in Coaching Techniques Over Time 45:16 Holistic Approach to Player Development 47:01 Creating a Positive Training Environment 48:24 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 Feedback 00:28 Long-Term Development in Golf 00:55 Wendi's Journey in Golf 08:12 Traditional vs. Modern Golf Instruction 10:51 The Importance of Community in Golf 12:57 Coaching with Constraints 19:59 Choices in Golf Practice Games 21:24 Creating a Supportive Environment for Young Athletes 23:46 The Importance of Consistency in Practice 26:20 Emotional Intelligence in Sports 34:22 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 Wiese https://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.

Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background 02:08 Mentorship and the Service Mindset 07:14 Parental Expectations and Their Impact 12:39 Keys to Success in College Golf 18:09 Balancing Passion and Commitment 24:07 The Importance of Long-Term Coaching 29:27 Navigating Parent Conversations 33:54 Creating a Positive Golf Culture 43:38 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 Kiger https://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 Transformation 02:20 Core Drives of Human Motivation 07:51 Intrinsic vs. Extrinsic Motivation in Sports 12:20 The Joy of the Game 18:29 The Role of Gamification 24:26 Navigating Parental Expectations 31:13 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 Introduction 04:06 Long-Term Golf Development Strategies 09:33 Personal Backgrounds and Perspectives 15:30 The Importance of Happiness in the Process 23:06 The Role of Praise in Development 30:48 Accountability in Junior Sports 35:41 Developing Grit and Resilience 41:02 Constraints-Led Learning in Golf Training 46:22 The Role of Technique in Skill Development 51:27 Balancing Practice: Block vs. Massed Practice 57:00 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

In this conversation, Ryan Dailey and Seth Thompson discuss the PGA Junior League, emphasizing its role in the long-term development of young golfers. They explore the transition from the Op 36 program to Junior League, highlighting the benefits of team dynamics, confidence building, and the importance of playing different courses. The discussion also touches on the readiness of players for Junior League and the overall fun and social aspects of participating in the program.

Takeaways

PGA Junior League is a key step in developing young golfers. The transition from Op 36 to Junior League is crucial. Team dynamics in Junior League foster a supportive environment. Playing in a scramble format reduces stress for young players. Confidence is built through team play and support. Different courses provide valuable experience for young golfers. Junior League encourages social interaction among players and parents. Skill levels should be considered for a positive Junior League experience. The program is growing rapidly with thousands of participants. Junior League offers a fun and competitive environment for youth golfers.

Chapters

00:00 Discussion on Coaching Changes in College Golf 00:26 Introduction to PGA Junior League 00:37 PGA Junior League's Role in Long-Term Development 06:57 Team Dynamics and Confidence Building 10:42 Transitioning from Op 36 to Junior League 15:16 The Importance of Adaptability in Golf 22:13 The Social Aspect of Junior League 28:25 Ending

Hosts: Ryan Dailey, PGA & Seth Thompson, PGA Executive Producer: A.J. Reimann. Instagram: @golfwithvp

Find The Golf Sit Down: https://linktr.ee/TheGolfSitDown

#615 #TheGolfSitDown #GolfSitDownPodcast #TGSChats #GolfProfessionals #GolfCoaches #GolfDads #GolfMoms #WomenInGolf #GrowTheGame #FutureGolfers #GolfLife #GolfTalk #GolfLife #GolfTips #GolfAddict #GolfGram #InstaGolf #GolfVibes #GolfSwing #GolfDay #GolferLife #GolfTime #GolfChat #GolfCommunity #GolfJourney #SitDownWithUs #TalkGolfToMe #InsideTheGame #PGAJL