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Welcome to the Fore Golfers Network/Michigan Golf Live Podcast Ep 516 - The LIV GOLF BOMBSHELL with Ryan French of Monday Q Info The future of LIV Golf may be hanging in the balance—and this conversation pulls back the curtain on why. In this episode of Fore Golfers Network, Bill Hobson welcomes Ryan French, founder of Monday Q Info, for a revealing discussion on the reporting that has shaken the golf world. Drawing from multiple sources and extensive behind-the-scenes conversations, Ryan explains why he believes LIV Golf, as we currently know it, may not survive without major structural change. At the center of the discussion is a growing concern over funding. With signs pointing toward the Public Investment Fund (PIF) pulling back from continued financial support, questions are emerging about sustainability, leadership decisions, and long-term viability. The conversation explores how massive losses, shifting priorities, and patience wearing thin could force a dramatic reset for the league. Bill and Ryan also examine LIV's struggle to gain traction in the American market, contrasting it with its success internationally. Marketing challenges, leadership messaging, and public perception all play a role in why the league has yet to truly resonate with U.S. audiences. Beyond the business side, the episode dives into communication breakdowns between LIV leadership and its players, raising concerns about trust, transparency, and organizational stability. There's also discussion about the ripple effects across the golf ecosystem—from venues and vendors to employees whose livelihoods depend on these events. While the future remains uncertain, one thing is clear: significant change is coming. Whether LIV Golf evolves, is acquired, or fades away, this conversation provides critical insight into one of the most important stories in the sport today. ---------------- Subscribe to the FGN Podcast Watch FGN videos on YouTube Check out our other sports pod: Church Pew Sports TEXT or CALL (989) 272-2383 to share your thoughts, comments, suggestions, and questions        

Welcome to the Fore Golfers Network/Michigan Golf Live Podcast Ep 515 - The Truth About Golf Ball Fitting with Dean Snell from Snell Golf. Most golfers are choosing the wrong golf ball—and it's costing them strokes. In this converaation, we break down the new Snell PR3 and PR4 golf balls and explain why the way you've been choosing your ball might be completely backwards. Here's the truth: you should NOT be picking your golf ball based on your driver. Instead, the real differences in performance show up from 150 yards and in—where scoring actually happens. That's exactly what Dean Snell (the mind behind some of the biggest golf ball innovations in the game) explains in this conversation. Listen, learn, and then give Snell Golf balls a try! ---------------- Subscribe to the FGN Podcast Watch FGN videos on YouTube Check out our other sports pod: Church Pew Sports TEXT or CALL (989) 272-2383 to share your thoughts, comments, suggestions, and questions        

This is the biggest announcement in the history of Michigan Golf Live! Join Bill Hobson for our first ever "The Future of Michigan Golf Live TV - State of the Show Address" to learn the full story about the demise of FanDuel Sports and where to find MGL TV where you live - for free on a channel you already get. No subscriptions. No streaming. Totally free on a network affiliate in your market! Find your MGL TV station: https://mgltv.com/stations/ CLICK HERE to see the full address on the MGL YouTube Channel

Welcome to the Fore Golfers Network/Michigan Golf Live Podcast Ep 513 - Our Incredible MASTERS MOMENT - 10 Years Later The date was April 7, 2016. Two very kind and generous men made it possible for my son and I to experience something no other father and son on planet have experienced at Augusta National Golf Club. This is the story of our incredible day, the men who made it happen, and the memories we will hold forever. Thank you, Mr Schlaff. Thank you, Jon Bloom. Thank you, Lord for the blessings of moments that we will hold onto forever.   ---------------- Subscribe to the FGN Podcast Watch FGN videos on YouTube Check out our other sports pod: Church Pew Sports TEXT or CALL (989) 272-2383 to share your thoughts, comments, suggestions, and questions    

Welcome to the Fore Golfers Network/Michigan Golf Live Podcast Ep 512 - A Masters Preview Unlike Any Other We're connecting with Brian Taylor from Real Golf Radio as he embarks on the show's annual trip to Augusta National. Brian helps us assess the field's top contenders, shares his favorite viewing vantage points around ANGC, and we spend a few minutes lamenting the recent developments in the life of Tiger Woods. More info on Real Golf Radio Enter the Michigan Golf Live Masters Fantasy League Contest ---------------- Subscribe to the FGN Podcast Watch FGN videos on YouTube Check out our other sports pod: Church Pew Sports TEXT or CALL (989) 272-2383 to share your thoughts, comments, suggestions, and questions      

Welcome to the Fore Golfers Network/Michigan Golf Live Podcast Ep 511 - Alan Shipnuck Talks All Things RORY Special guest Alan Shipnuck discusses his latest book, "Rory: The Heartache and Triumph of Golf's Most Human Superstar," which explores the career of Rory McIlroy. The book delves into McIlroy's rise to fame, his struggles, and his recent Masters victory. Alan explained the challenges of writing the biography without McIlroy's direct cooperation and discussed McIlroy's evolving approach to media and sponsorship. You'll hear all about McIlroy's involvement in TGL and his decision to reject the Saudi-backed LIV Golf series. The conversation covered various aspects of McIlroy's career, including his relationship with Tiger Woods, his performance at the Ryder Cup, and his emotional Masters win that reinforced the universal appeal of McIlroy's victory. CLICK HERE TO BUY THE BOOK! ---------------- Subscribe to the FGN Podcast Watch FGN videos on YouTube Check out our other sports pod: Church Pew Sports TEXT or CALL (989) 272-2383 to share your thoughts, comments, suggestions, and questions        

Welcome to the Fore Golfers Network/Michigan Golf Live Podcast Ep 510 - Inside the Ropes: 31 Years as a PGA Tour Rules Official with Joe Terry What really happens when a PGA Tour rules official gets called in? In this episode of the Fore Golfers Network Podcast, we talk with longtime PGA Tour rules official Joe to pull back the curtain on one of the most misunderstood roles in professional golf. Joe shares how a simple rules misunderstanding after returning from Vietnam sparked a lifelong passion that turned into a 31-year career officiating at the highest level of the game. From his first major championship in the mid-1980s to Ryder Cup pressure cookers and iconic rulings involving legends like Jack Nicklaus, Arnold Palmer, Seve Ballesteros, Raymond Floyd, Nick Faldo, and Tiger Woods, Joe explains what it takes to apply the Rules of Golf fairly, calmly, and consistently—no matter who's holding the club. This episode dives into how PGA Tour officials prepare for tournaments, why explaining options matters more than giving answers, and how officials navigate subjective rulings versus black-and-white rules. Joe also shares unforgettable anecdotes, including imaginary animal damage claims, color-blind penalty area confusion, and heated match-play confrontations where every word matters. Bill and Joe also explore modern rules controversies, including pace of play enforcement, self-reporting ethics, reputation bias, and how today's players operate under intense scrutiny. From Patrick Reed debates to Rory McIlroy comparisons and Brian Davis' Masters integrity moment, the conversation highlights why transparency and caution define today's Tour professionals. As Joe reflects on his upcoming retirement, this episode becomes both a masterclass in golf rules and a tribute to the officials who protect the game's integrity—often quietly, and always under pressure. ---------------- Subscribe to the FGN Podcast Watch FGN videos on YouTube Check out our other sports pod: Church Pew Sports TEXT or CALL (989) 272-2383 to share your thoughts, comments, suggestions, and questions    

Welcome to the Fore Golfers Network/Michigan Golf Live Podcast Ep 509 - The Future of the Rocket Classic with Mark Hollis What does the future hold for Detroit's PGA Tour event—and why does it matter so much to Michigan golf fans? In this episode of the Fore Golfers Network Podcast, host Bill Hobson sits down with Mark Hollis, Tournament Director of the Rocket Classic, to explore the past, present, and very uncertain future of the PGA Tour's lone stop in the state of Michigan. Hollis pulls back the curtain on what it truly takes to run a PGA Tour event, comparing the operation to "building a small city" from scratch each summer at Detroit Golf Club. With a newly renovated Donald Ross course, a brand-new late-July tournament date, and major upgrades to fan experience areas like Area 313, the Rocket Classic is positioning itself for a defining moment in 2026. The conversation dives into corporate sponsorship realities, hospitality demand, and the delicate balance between revenue generation and preserving the walkability and energy that fans love. Hollis also addresses the broader PGA Tour landscape, including the impact of LIV Golf, signature events, escalating purse demands, and how those pressures trickle down to tournaments like Detroit's. With the Rocket Classic contract expiring after 2026, Hollis explains what must fall into place for the event to continue—from PGA Tour alignment to sponsor ROI to community impact. He also shares optimism about player recruitment, the advantages of the new schedule window, and why Detroit remains a top-tier market capable of hosting elite golf. If you care about the future of professional golf in Michigan, the Rocket Classic's place on the PGA Tour calendar, and how major sporting events shape cities, this is a must-listen conversation. ---------------- Subscribe to the FGN Podcast Watch FGN videos on YouTube Check out our other sports pod: Church Pew Sports TEXT or CALL (989) 272-2383 to share your thoughts, comments, suggestions, and questions    

Welcome to the Fore Golfers Network/Michigan Golf Live Podcast Ep 508 - Golf's 2026 Future: Golf's 2026 Future: Our Crystal Ball and Wish List Before you close the books on 2025 and dive into the New Year, join Michigan Golf Live Host Bill Hobson for a peek into his crystal ball and personal wish list as we look ahead to the 2026 world of golf. We start with the annual spectacle that is the PGA Merchandise Show — a place where "game-changing" innovations are unveiled every January. Which new tech will actually help golfers play better, and which will simply be shinier versions of what we already own? Hope springs eternal. Attention then turns to the PGA Tour and the impact of its new Commissioner, especially as Michigan golf fans anxiously wait to see whether the Rocket Classic can secure a long-term future. After losing the Buick Open years ago, the stakes feel especially high. On the women's side, we applaud the LPGA for smart scheduling moves that give Michigan back-to-back weeks of elite tournament golf — a rare and welcome win for fans and players alike. On a personal level, the conversation shifts toward smarter golf goals in 2026: better preparation, improved course management, and chasing birdies instead of simply avoiding disasters. We also explore the rise of electric push carts, the uncertain future of the Ally Challenge, and whether golf's post-pandemic boom can continue. From AI-driven course maintenance and drone-delivered hot dogs to rising Topgolf prices and the growing influence of value-driven boutique brands, this episode blends insight, skepticism, and humor — all while asking the most important question of all: will this finally be the year a great round finishes the same way it starts? ---------------- Subscribe to the FGN Podcast Watch FGN videos on YouTube Check out our other sports pod: Church Pew Sports TEXT or CALL (989) 272-2383 to share your thoughts, comments, suggestions, and questions      

Welcome to the Fore Golfers Network/Michigan Golf Live Podcast Ep 507 - Sub70 Golf's Rise: Custom Clubs, DTC Innovation & What Golfers Really Need Sub70 Golf has become one of the most talked-about direct-to-consumer brands in the golf equipment space—and this episode of Fore Golfers Network breaks down exactly why. In this conversation with Host Bill Hobson, Sub70 Golf CEO Jason Hiland shares key insights behind the founding and growth of Sub70 Golf, which launched in 2015 after the successful sale of Diamond Tour Golf. Built on experience, not guesswork, Sub70 entered the market with a clear focus on custom-built golf clubs, authentic branding, and elite-level customer service, all produced in Sycamore, Illinois. Key highlights from the episode include: Why the direct-to-consumer model works in golf when customization and trust are prioritized How Sub70 uses expert interpretation of club specs, not just raw data, to fit golfers properly The difference between what tour professionals demand (trajectory control and a consistent "window") versus what amateur golfers actually need (playability and confidence) How Sub70 initially gained traction through irons and wedges—and why the driver category is now rapidly growing The role of social media, customer feedback, and industry awards in building credibility without traditional OEM marketing How Sub70 has evolved its product lines, branding, and service model since launch The discussion also looks ahead, with plans for future collaboration focused on testing, education, and transparent evaluation of Sub70 equipment—bridging the gap between technical performance and real-world playability. This episode is a must-listen for golfers interested in custom club fitting, equipment innovation, and understanding how modern golf brands are built outside the traditional OEM system. ---------------- Subscribe to the FGN Podcast Watch FGN videos on YouTube Check out our other sports pod: Church Pew Sports TEXT or CALL (989) 272-2383 to share your thoughts, comments, suggestions, and questions      

Welcome to the Fore Golfers Network/Michigan Golf Live Podcast Ep 506 - Harbor Town Reborn: Davis Love III & The Lowcountry Legends of Hilton Head In the finale to our fall special travel-series, host Bill Hobson takes listeners inside one of the most celebrated destinations in American golf — Hilton Head Island — for an exclusive, behind-the-scenes look at the grand reopening of the iconic Harbor Town Golf Links. Recently restored under the leadership of World Golf Hall of Famer Davis Love III, Harbor Town is more than a PGA TOUR stop; it is a masterpiece of Pete Dye's architectural brilliance, revered by players and fans for over five decades. In this episode, Bill sits down one-on-one with Davis Love III to unpack the philosophy behind the restoration — not a redesign, not a modernization, but a careful, reverent restoration of Pete Dye's original intent.  From there, the episode expands into the broader magic of Hilton Head and the Lowcountry. Bill talks with Sea Pines Resort leaders, architectural experts, and regional tourism voices who reveal why this stretch of South Carolina coastline remains one of the most beloved golf-travel destinations in the world. You'll learn what makes Lowcountry golf unique, how the region maintains its charm with strict environmental and architectural standards, and why players flock here year after year. The story continues with a stop inside the famous Harbor Town Lighthouse Museum, hosted by longtime curator Nadia, whose 30+-year career inside the iconic structure has made her a living encyclopedia of local history. Her personal story — from Yugoslavia to Hilton Head — beautifully illustrates why this destination resonates so deeply with visitors from around the world. Whether you're planning a warm-weather golf escape, dreaming of walking the same fairways that PGA TOUR players rave about, or simply craving a deeper appreciation for one of the game's greatest venues, this episode delivers inspiration from every angle. ---------------- Subscribe to the FGN Podcast Watch FGN videos on YouTube Check out our other sports pod: Church Pew Sports TEXT or CALL (989) 272-2383 to share your thoughts, comments, suggestions, and questions    

Welcome to the Fore Golfers Network/Michigan Golf Live Podcast Ep 505 - Golf in Mesquite - Featuring Wolf Creek, Conastoga, and Eureka Join Michigan Golf Live TV host Bill Hobson on a spectacular golf road trip to Mesquite, Nevada—one of America's most underrated destination golf regions. Just an hour north of Las Vegas, Mesquite delivers a rare combination of beauty, challenge, and exceptional value that keeps golfers returning from around the world. In this special feature, Bill takes you inside three pillars of the Mesquite golf experience: Conestoga Golf Club, Wolf Creek Golf Club, and the Eureka Resort & Casino. Each stop showcases a different dimension of what makes Mesquite a bucket-list trip for golfers of all skill levels. We begin at Conestoga, a course celebrated for its Old West character, dramatic rock formations, amphitheater-style homesites, and an exceptionally thoughtful course design. Gary Banks crafted a routing that blends the landscape, community, and golf experience seamlessly—providing both challenge and playability. With multiple tees stretching to nearly 7,500 yards, Conestoga offers forgiveness for beginners, strategic options for mid-handicappers, and pure exhilaration for skilled players. Stunning visuals, target-golf elements, and memorable holes highlight the front nine and set the tone for Mesquite's unique desert style. Next, we visit the world-famous Wolf Creek, a course so dramatic that many golfers assume the photos are fake. They're not. Wolf Creek's unfiltered landscapes, extreme elevation changes, deep canyons, and risk-reward tee shots create an unforgettable experience. From 150 yards and in, precision is key—this is target golf at its most beautiful and demanding. For many international golfers, Wolf Creek is a pilgrimage, thanks in part to appearing in videogames and global golf rankings. Every guest leaves with stories they can't wait to share. After long desert rounds, nothing beats coming back to a friendly, perfectly-sized home base. The Eureka Resort & Casino, an employee-owned property, prides itself on hospitality, continual improvement, and making a Mesquite golf trip accessible and affordable. Vacation packages combining rooms and rounds deliver some of the region's best deals. The intimacy of the resort offers a peaceful retreat after adrenaline-filled rounds at Wolf Creek, Conestoga, CasaBlanca, and the many nearby courses stretching toward St. George. World-class challenge. Remarkable value. And unforgettable hospitality.  BOOK YOUR MESQUITE GOLF ESCAPE #MesquiteGolf #WolfCreekGolf #ConestogaGolf #NevadaGolf #GolfTrip #GolfTravel #DesertGolf #MichiganGolfLive #GolfDestinations

Welcome to the Fore Golfers Network/Michigan Golf Live Podcast Ep 504 - Lee Abbamonte's Wild Global Golf Adventures In this unforgettable episode of the Fore Golfers Network Podcast, host Bill Hobson welcomes Lee Abbamonte — a true global citizen, travel icon, and golf adventurer. Known as the youngest American to visit every country in the world, Lee's journey from Wall Street executive to world-traveling storyteller is nothing short of remarkable. Lee's story begins with a simple study abroad trip to London, which sparked an insatiable curiosity for the world beyond the trading floor. What started as a personal challenge — visiting 100 countries before turning 30 — soon transformed into a mission to see every nation on Earth. By the age of 32, he had done just that, earning a place in travel history. But Lee's adventures didn't stop there. Along the way, he discovered a new passion: golf. Whether teeing it up on lush fairways in Puerto Rico or makeshift greens in remote corners of the globe, Lee's golf journey is as extraordinary as his passport stamps. During the pandemic, he set a new goal — to play as many of the top public courses in the U.S. as possible. Fast forward to today, and he's played more than 790 different courses, from bucket-list classics to hidden gems. In this episode, Lee shares some of his wildest and most inspiring stories. You'll hear what it was like to play golf in Kabul, Afghanistan, with armed guards protecting him from nearby conflict, and how he navigated chaotic situations like a riot in Algeria and a gunfire-filled border crossing from Egypt to Libya. Through it all, Lee's passion for discovery and connection shines through — proving that travel, like golf, is as much about the journey as it is the destination. Lee and Bill also discuss the cultural bridges golf can build around the world, how the sport gives travelers a unique way to connect with people, and why every golfer should pack their clubs no matter how far they roam. Lee also offers a glimpse into his upcoming travel plans — including golf expeditions to India and Sri Lanka in 2026 — and shares hints about his upcoming book and potential documentary projects. If you've ever dreamed of combining your love for golf with global adventure, this episode will fuel your wanderlust and inspire you to take the next swing — wherever it might lead.    

Welcome to the Fore Golfers Network/Michigan Golf Live Podcast Ep 503 - Road Tripping to Saint George: Sand Hollow, Coral Canyon & The Ledges in Greater Zion Welcome to the fourth installment of our Fall Travel Series on the Fore Golfers Network Podcast — where we hit the road, explore extraordinary landscapes, and discover exceptional golf destinations. This episode takes us to southern Utah's stunning golf and adventure destination: the Greater Zion area. Nestled amid red-rock cliffs, expansive desert vistas and dramatic canyons, the region serves up a unique blend of natural beauty and world-class golf. We profile three standout courses: Sand Hollow Resort (Hurricane / St. George), Coral Canyon Golf Course (Washington County), and The Ledges Golf Club (St. George). Each offers its own flavor of terrain, design and adventure. At Sand Hollow, you'll experience bold desert architecture, signature elevation changes and ultra-dramatic scenery that perfectly capture the golf travel dream.  Coral Canyon sits at the foothills of the Red Cliffs landscape and delivers rugged beauty, bold design and memorable holes. It's one of the most recommended public tracks in the St. George region. The Ledges Golf Club blends luxury stay-&-play amenities with a dramatic backdrop of Snow Canyon and desert rock. From its long tees to its sculpted greens, it presents a premium golfing experience for travelers and local players alike. Beyond the fairways, we explore Greater Zion, soak in the scenic surroundings, chat about travel logistics, lodging tips, best times to play and how this destination delivers value, variety and vistas. Whether you're planning a fall golf getaway, a winter warm-weather escape or simply want to add this region to your bucket list, this episode has you covered. Listen in as we: Dive into the architectural highlights and standout holes of each course Share insider tips on tee-time booking, optimal seasons and stay-&-play packages Explore the surrounding area: scenic drives, nearby parks, local eats and off-course experiences in Greater Zion Frame this trip within our broader Fall Travel Series — what makes autumn travel special for golf, how to maximize daylight and weather, and how this region shines in the shoulder season So buckle up, grab your favorite beverage, plug in your headphones and join us on the road to southern Utah — where the golf is epic, the scenery unforgettable and the adventure awaits. Thanks for tuning into Fore Golfers Network Podcast. Let's tee it up! ---------------- Subscribe to the FGN Podcast Watch FGN videos on YouTube Check out our other sports pod: Church Pew Sports TEXT or CALL (989) 272-2383 to share your thoughts, comments, suggestions, and questions      

Welcome to the Fore Golfers Network/Michigan Golf Live Podcast Ep 502 - Mackinac Island's Hidden Gems: Wawashkamo Golf Club and  The Inn at Stonecliffe Our Travel Series continues with a special journey to a truly magical place - Mackinac Island, MI. This special destination features a pair of most unique destinations where history runs very deep through the fabric and guest experiences.  Join us for a tee time on the 2nd oldest continuously operating golf club in Michigan - Wawashkamo Golf Club and then stay a couple nights with us at the spectacular Inn At Stonecliffe. KEY LINKS: Wawashkamo Golf Club Inn at Stonecliffe Voice of Mackinac Island Podcast Series WATCH THE VIDEO FEATURE ---------------- Subscribe to the FGN Podcast Watch FGN videos on YouTube Check out our other sports pod: Church Pew Sports TEXT or CALL (989) 272-2383 to share your thoughts, comments, suggestions, and questions