Hybrids . . . Hype or Uber-Hittable? | @regripped

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Instead of having someone promote #GolfChat, I was hoping that you . . . Yes YOU would invite 10 people to join us for #GolfChat today.  They could be #GolfChatters already or they could be newbies.  Either way, let’s make sure we remind everyone about #GolfChat.

Sorry for the late notice in getting this email out just 5 hours before #GolfChat, but I have the best excuse.  I was playing golf.

#GolfChat Questions

#Q1 What was the most interesting thing to happen in golf this week? #GolfChat

#Q2 submitted by @h2cgolf: What are your thoughts on cross training other sports to help with your golf game? #GolfChat

#Q3 submitted by @SilverStarGolf: Are hybrids hype or uber-hittable? #GolfChat

#Q4 submitted by @courtgolf: women’s majors are a hot button right now. Evian basically bought their major status – SHOULD it be one? #GolfChat

#Q5 submitted by @cencalhack: Do you think a separate set of rules for recreational play would improve the pace of play? #GolfChat

#Q6: submitted by @connectgolf & @AussieGolfer: Has there ever been a good golf movie? #GolfChat

 

 

Golf Chatter Bio: @regripped

 


Real Name: Pete
Location: Studio City, CA

What Do You Order from the #GolfChat Bar?

Give me a Jack and Ginger, light but buzzy. (this means something I just know it)

How Did You Get Into Golf?

My dad played golf when he was a teenager put down the clubs in his 20s and picked them back up again when I became a young sprout and he got me into the game. Sadly I followed the same trajectory and after playing as a teen and in high school and college, I have picked up the game again my 30s. But I am back at it hardcore and I have my dad to thank!

What Are You Doing in Golf and Why?

Fewer courses but make the remaining ones more interesting. Golf shouldn’t be just a straight ahead plodding 5.5 hour affair. It should move along with holes that move you inside. Too many courses, too few beauties.

Favorite #GolfChat Topics?

Golf course trips. I am an avid researcher and even if I haven’t gone to Bandon yet or Scotland or even Myrtle Beach, I still want to hear about courses who is playing what, who is getting deals etc. Get me to the other side of the fence, is the grass really greener over there?

Favorite Golf Quote?

The woods are full of long drivers.
– Harvey Penick 

Favorite Golf Destination and Why?

I am just starting to stretch my golf legs but my favorite course in the last few years is Rustic Canyon here in SoCal. Each hole is unique with greens that are more like ocean waves than putting surfaces. Some of the most fun I have had on a course has been at Rustic. 

How Do You View the State of the Game of Golf?

When I was growing up and playing golf, you could go out and play courses for not a lot of dough and not a lot of time. Now, weekends at the worst beater track will cost you $40 and the round will take 5+ hours. The equipment is great and pro tournaments are all over the country but the experience of actually playing golf at a muni is not like it was when I was growing up. Not sure what the answer is but its not fun right now. 

Who Are Your Favorite #GolfChatters and Why?

There are so many but off the top of my head:
@zebwelborn
@front9back9
@aspittle
@golfbybryan
@h2cgolf
@connectgolf
@egull
@golfbloggercom 

Favorite Golfers and Why?

It starts and ends with Fred Couples. My boyhood hero, posters on the wall, the whole nine yards. Other than Fred, my new favorite is Jordan Spieth and I can’t wait to see what he does in the years to come! Can’t forget the ladies, I am a huge LPGA fan and my favorite has to be Annika along with today’s players like Danielle Kang and Sadena Parks. 

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What Was the Best Major of 2015? | @MikeintheCouv

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#GolfChat Questions

#Q1 What was the most interesting thing to happen in golf this week? #GolfChat

#Q2 inspired by @ghostofhogan: What was the best major in 2015 and why? #GolfChat

#Q3 submitted by @eGullGolf: Who’s is going to win a major first? Ricky Fowler? or Dustin Johnson? #GolfChat

#Q4 submitted by @BJCottle: How much practice do you put into your game? Full Swing? Chipping? Pitching? Putting? #GolfChat

#Q5 submitted by @golfbloggercom: Who are your favorite/least favorite Golf Channel Shows/Personalities? #GolfChat

#Q6: submitted by @aspittle: Do you name any of your individual clubs?  If so, what’s the story? #GolfChat

Best Major of 2015 #GolfChat

Golf Chatter Bio: @MikeintheCouv

@MikeintheCouv Best Major of 2015 #GolfChat
Real Name: Mike
Location: Portland

What Do You Order from the #GolfChat Bar?

I live near Beervana, the land where hoppiness is king…and I’m an anti-hop guy. So I look for red ales, black lagers, and porters post round. Or, set a Goose & tonic in front of me and you’ll have my undivided attention for six minutes or until the glass is empty, whichever comes first. 

How Did You Get Into Golf?

Went to the range with Dad when I was 8 or 9. He borrowed a LH club from the pro shop for me to use. After ~10 minutes of “lessons”, Dad, frustrated by not being able to figure the whole mirror image thing said, “Screw it, turn around!” So, I play right handed. lol

What Are You Doing in Golf and Why?

Tried really hard to make it in the golf business (retail). The 2008 recession killed a lot of dreams….including ours.

Favorite #GolfChat Topics?

I have no hot button topics, but I love seeing (and learning) that there are 47 or 84 or 115 different opinions to the same question.

Favorite Golf Quote?

“Hit it hard, it will land somewhere.” – Mark Calcavecchia

Favorite Golf Destination and Why?

My bucket list is to play around Ireland. But playing golf in Banff and Jasper, AB was absolutely outstanding.

How Do You View the State of the Game of Golf?

I think the golf industry is being cannibalized from the inside by the equipment manufacturers. Too many releases, too high of price points. They aren’t helping to drive new people to the game…in fact, probably the opposite. Related, the “buying programs’ manufacturers require retailers to accept is the death of the brick and mortar golf shop.

Who Are Your Favorite #GolfChatters and Why?

Can’t name names or I’ll leave someone out and feel bad. About 3 seconds after I joined Twitter I discovered how widespread the golf community was on here….and I was hooked. I’ve been lucky enough to meet & play with a dozen or so Tweeps so far (I know that’s number for many of you, and that’s great! Glad people are connecting!) and I can’t wait to tee it up with more of you. Thanks Zeb and Jeremy for putting this together. 

Favorite Golfers and Why?

My all time favorite PGA pro is Skip Kendall. But it’s a two-beer story to tell.

Weekly Reminders

Do you have updates to share with the #GolfChat community.  Email me with the cool things you’ve been up to and I’ll be sure to share those with our #GolfChat members!

Comment below if you have any comments, questions, or ideas as it pertains to #GolfChat.

Learn more about some of my Top 82 Golf Twitter Accounts to follow in 2015 – http://19thholemedia.com/top-82-golf-twitter-accounts-follow-2015/

Want to get more involved with #GolfChat and be notified via email about upcoming #GolfChat’s and opportunities.  Sign up for the #GolfChat newsletter!  – https://welborn.leadpages.net/golfchat/

Do You Have Any Suggestions for #GolfChat Questions?  Share Them With Us!

For more information about how to participate in #GolfChat, please check out this article – How to Participate in #GolfChat Twitter Chat – http://19thholemedia.com/how-to-participate-in-the-golfchat-twitter-chat/
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PGA Championship | @aspittle

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#GolfChat Questions

#Q1 What was the most interesting thing to happen in golf this week? #GolfChat

#Q2 submitted by @JacobSmithGolf: Bigger story: Day winning first major? Spieth charging to world #1? #GolfChat

#Q3 submitted by @29sonski: Did Tiger make right decision about Wyndham? #GolfChat

#Q4 submitted by @SuzyfromFlorida: Are you happy that someone could actually reach 20-under in a Major? #GolfChat

#Q5 submitted by @mrbadura: Why do we all keep playing this crazy game? #GolfChat

#Q6: submitted by @connectgolf: How do you keep up with the #GolfChat feed? #GolfChat

PGA Championship #GolfChat

Golf Chatter Bio: @aspittle (super creative)


Real Name: Amy Spittle
Location: San Jose-ish, CA

What Do You Order from the #GolfChat Bar?

First of all, I appreciate that this is the first question! Ha! As far as an answer, it depends on the day/season and time of day…always prefer a good New Zealand or Australian Sauvignon Blanc or if cocktail time a Bombay Sapphire/Tonic (always with extra limes) or if beer, Pacifico with lime, Bloody Mary’s in the morning preferably fully garnished to include #bacon. It all depends but #rake #rake #rake     

How Did You Get Into Golf?

My ex-husband introduced the game to me on our honeymoon in Maui. Bought my first set of clubs at Target. I still play with the same putter today, although a Wilson set, I named him Ralph. 

What Are You Doing in Golf and Why?

I am working for the best golf course management company, KemperSports. It’s family owned and it feels like home. I get to travel and work with some of the most fun and innovative people in the business and brainstorm new ideas on driving revenue at all types of golf courses. It’s a hoot. I’m not sure I am changing the world by any means but I am trying to make it in a work hard-play hard place and positively promote the game of golf! I’m also on the board for the California Golf Course Owners Association #GolfAdvocate

Favorite #GolfChat Topics?

#AdamScottWatch
#rake
#KemperSports
#ChambersBay
#WaterConservation

Favorite Golf Quote?

“It’s not about how good you play, it’s about how fast you play.” – AMEN

Favorite Golf Destination and Why?

This is tough to answer. Chambers Bay is a favorite but destination wise I might have to say Palm Desert, CA. the scenery is beautiful and the variety of resort style courses are plentiful. Love Desert Willow Golf Resort!

How Do You View the State of the Game of Golf?

I wish there was a magic bullet… I think seeing younger players on tour succeed such as Jordan Spieth does the game a lot of good. Showing golfers having fun versus being quiet and reserved (like we currently see on TV) would help some too. I think overall, the industry could create a stronger social aspect versus the heavy promoting of competition and having to hold a handicap would make room for an increase in participation. Plus throw in some adult beverages and music on occasion to kick it up a notch (yet not interfering with the die-hard competitive players.) 

Who Are Your Favorite #GolfChatters and Why?

@ConnectGolf @ZebWelborn @Dimples_CA @SocialPutts @AmyMccTobin @golfbloggercom @harroldgolf

They all make me laugh! The banter makes it fun!
Sorry, I probably missed some more too! #Cheers

Favorite Golfers and Why?

Adam Scott (Of course- why not??)
Jordan Spieth (So good for the game!)
Phil Mickelson (Go Devils!)
Jason Day (Love the Aussies!)
… just to name a few…

 

Weekly Reminders

Do you have updates to share with the #GolfChat community.  Email me with the cool things you’ve been up to and I’ll be sure to share those with our #GolfChat members!

Comment below if you have any comments, questions, or ideas as it pertains to #GolfChat.

Learn more about some of my Top 82 Golf Twitter Accounts to follow in 2015 – http://19thholemedia.com/top-82-golf-twitter-accounts-follow-2015/

Want to get more involved with #GolfChat and be notified via email about upcoming #GolfChat’s and opportunities.  Sign up for the #GolfChat newsletter!  – https://welborn.leadpages.net/golfchat/

Do You Have Any Suggestions for #GolfChat Questions?  Share Them With Us!

For more information about how to participate in #GolfChat, please check out this article – How to Participate in #GolfChat Twitter Chat – http://19thholemedia.com/how-to-participate-in-the-golfchat-twitter-chat/

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Golf Club Throwing | @cowanbrew

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#GolfChat Questions

#Q1 What was the most interesting thing to happen in golf this week? #GolfChat

#Q2 inspired by @romsho: What do you think about a golfer who throws his/her clubs? #GolfChat Golf Club Throwing

#Q3 submitted by @eGullGolf: What do you think of #LPGA having 5 Majors. Should we have a 5th Major in PGA too? #GolfChat

#Q4 submitted by @mrbadura: Who introduced you to game?  And how did you first get started? #GolfChat

#Q5 submitted by @MotorcityJ: Is there one swing for everyone? #GolfChat

#Q6: submitted by @FriedEggGolf: Is it really possible to “lose” your swing during a round? #GolfChat?

#GolfChat Zeb Welborn 19th Hole Media

Golf Chatter Bio: @cowanbrew

 

Golf Club Throwing Jim Cowan Golf #GolfChat
Real Name: Jim Cowan
Location: Okc, OK

What Do You Order from the #GolfChat Bar?

Used to own a Brewpub, so I love local Craft Beers, but I won’t turn down a Tanqueray 10 & Tonic either….

How Did You Get Into Golf?

Went to work for Landmark here in Okc in 1987 and played my first complete 18 holes of Golf on Oak Tree National. Worked at Landmark properties Kiawah Island Inn & LaQuinta Golf & Tennis Resort. That pretty much got me hooked on Golf. Best thing is that my wife of over 30 years LOVES the sport too. Lots of Couples Golf Trips!

What Are You Doing in Golf and Why?

After owning my own Brewpub(that had had Golf Simulators to play), I ended up running a Country Club for 4 1/2 years. I saw so many Clubs stuck in a time warp, resistant to change. So I decided to start my own Consulting Company to help Clubs grow Membership. I help with Membership Marketing Strategy & Social Media. I help grow Brand awareness by making Clubs relevant through Fun Social Events.

Favorite #GolfChat Topics?

I Love the OKC Thunder and have been know to get on rants about bad officiating.
It also drives me crazy to see Golf Clubs that do the same thing, year after year, yet expect different results and always have an excuse of why things aren’t better.

Favorite Golf Quote?

“Gambling is illegal at Bushwood, and I never slice!” Judge Smails

Favorite Golf Destination and Why?

I would love to go back to Kiawah Island or to the Dessert in Palm Springs. Landmark also used to own Carmel Valley Ranch Resort, but I never got to go there. That would also be a great trip. Really anywhere there is great golf and good friends.

How Do You View the State of the Game of Golf?

Golf has to continue to evolve to attract the Young people. Whatever TopGolf is doing, more Golf courses and Clubs need to do. Fun has to be part of the Fabric of the Future! 

Who Are Your Favorite #GolfChatters and Why?

@ZebWelborn, @aSpittle, @Regripped

Favorite Golfers and Why?

Jordan Spieth

Best 19th Hole Story from #GolfChat

Greg Norman The Shark #GolfChat Golf

The Twitter Conversation went a little something like this . . .

@golfbloggercom

#golfchat A5: Drank late into the night with Greg Norman. The next morning he tries to cut his hand off with a chainsaw. True story.

@TheGolfSpace

@golfbloggercom @golfmoreblog @ZebWelborn Earlier that evening Norman high-fived wife and I because we were leaving to “make babies.”

@TheGolfSpace

@golfbloggercom @golfmoreblog @ZebWelborn I generally drink wine every day, and the NINE Norman wines we had that night were great.

@TheGolfSpace

@golfbloggercom @golfmoreblog @ZebWelborn Great when the resort pulled out the cheapo wine and Norman’s assistant sent it back.

Weekly Reminders

Do you have updates to share with the #GolfChat community.  Email me with the cool things you’ve been up to and I’ll be sure to share those with our #GolfChat members!

Comment below if you have any comments, questions, or ideas as it pertains to #GolfChat.

Learn more about some of my Top 82 Golf Twitter Accounts to follow in 2015 – http://19thholemedia.com/top-82-golf-twitter-accounts-follow-2015/

Want to get more involved with #GolfChat and be notified via email about upcoming #GolfChat’s and opportunities.  Sign up for the #GolfChat newsletter!  – https://welborn.leadpages.net/golfchat/

Do You Have Any Suggestions for #GolfChat Questions?  Share Them With Us!

For more information about how to participate in #GolfChat, please check out this article – How to Participate in #GolfChat Twitter Chat – http://19thholemedia.com/how-to-participate-in-the-golfchat-twitter-chat/
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The Social Golf Course Edition of #GolfChat | @AdamJFonseca

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Thank You #GolfChatters

To say thank you for supporting #GolfChat this year, I’ve decided to give away a digital copy of the book John Hakim and I wrote, The Social Golf Course for free on August 4 and 5.

Please share The Social Golf Course with as many golf enthusiasts as you can.

When you finish reading it I hope you’ll review the book in Amazon.

And, if you enjoyed it enough, we hope you’ll buy a copy to give to a friend.

Thank you for joining #GolfChat this year.  Can’t wait to hear what you think about the book!

#GolfChat Questions

#Q1 What was the most interesting thing to happen in golf this week? #GolfChat

#Q2: What makes golf special? #GolfChat

#Q3: What is the coolest thing you’ve ever seen on social media as it pertains to golf? #GolfChat

#Q4: What is the best way to attract new golfers to golf? #GolfChat

#Q5: What is your favorite 19th Hole Story? #GolfChat

#Q6: What questions would you like asked in future editions of #GolfChat?

Golf Chatter Bio: @AdamJFonseca

Real Name: Adam Fonseca
Location: Chicago, IL

What Do You Order from the #GolfChat Bar?

Total IPA freak here. Anything over 60 IBUs is preferred. Revolution Brewery’s Anti-Hero is the favorite.

How Did You Get Into Golf?

I worked as a caddy growing up at a local country club. Most of my co-workers played on their high school or college teams and I picked up pointers from them over time. And an alcohol habit. But who’s counting?

What Are You Doing in Golf and Why?

I’m a golf writer who has been featured on SB Nation, Yahoo, USA Today, Fox Sports and the defunct Back9Network. I’m currently the owner of GolfUnfiltered.com and the Golf Unfiltered Podcast.

Favorite #GolfChat Topics?

Whenever people start talking about what’s wrong with the game. There’s nothing wrong with golf. There’s plenty wrong with the people who play it.

Favorite Golf Quote?

The most important shot in golf is the next one. — Ben Hogan

Favorite Golf Destination and Why?

Myrtle Beach is great, but I’ll take Eagle Ridge Resort in Galena, IL any day. The finest golf you’ll find in the Midwest.

How Do You View the State of the Game of Golf?

Things are falling back toward reality in the post-Tiger Boom era. Professionally, golf has never been better. 

Who Are Your Favorite #GolfChatters and Why?

I have no favorites because everyone has been equally great. Except for @citizencage. That guy licks farts.

Favorite Golfers and Why?

Tiger Woods (duh)
Jordan Spieth (duh)
Graeme McDowell (played drunk golf with him once)

#GolfChat – How to Build a Genuine Community Online by Jeremy White CEO of Connect Golf

Marketing is, at its simplest, working out what people need and communicating that your product can serve them. Given the barrage of marketing messages, most people are switched off to traditional mediums, so it’s key to build the awareness first and that happens best in places where people are engaged. Mostly online communities. Only then might they switch on and start listening to what you’re saying.

You don’t need a college degree to figure it out. Common sense is all that’s needed and you’ve got that in bucketloads. Plus the courage to actually get out and give it a shot. No doubt there are plenty of history teachers and others who have a good idea to fill a niche, but they never have the guts to quit their jobs and carpe diem the heck out of their idea.

When I started building Connect Golf, I knew it needed to be attached to a community, but also knew communities were, understandably, suspicious of brands. It is also difficult to find communities without agendas. They exist, but it none represent the greater golfing demographic. The bigger social media platforms have some large communities when you look it on pure member numbers. However you can’t filter out the brands and individuals doing not-so-subtle self-promotion stuff or even the randoms posting pics of themselves on their latest golf holiday. Let me rephrase that, you can filter them, but you can’t be bothered. Most members aren’t even active and a post’s visibility is questionable to say the least.

It’s quite a coincidence, but true all the same, that I came to the view that a Twitter chat for golf was needed to solve most of the issues noted above – excepting the occasional and to be honest quite brilliant moderator stunts involving surprise female pro golfers and car brands (I’m a huge marketing cynic, but was happily tweeting with @lexus mentions). I realised that being a wannabe brand, doing it myself would probably lack credibility with participants, but the very next week I came across month 2 of #Golfchat. Problem solved!

Your role, experience, podcast, website, Twitter account etc. is based around the personal brand of Zeb Welborn, so while most people get that part of the exercise is to grow your own brand, they’re fine with that because they can see, hear and read the story behind it. Done for the right reasons and you’re building a no-nonsense community with golf at the core.

At the door to many online golf communities you have to read a heap of rules about what not to do on those platforms or forums, but with #GolfChat there’s none of that, yet people instinctively know how to behave. Yes we all want more business or more subscribers or more readers or more impressions or whatever, but the #GolfChatters generally understand that the way to build a brand via social media is to participate. Just participate and not sell. Pure and simple, we just talk golf and that’s cool from the perspective that we’re not in our usual sales mode. As John from @golfbloggercom would say, we’re just sitting at the #GolfChat bar and talking about the sport.

I’m usually your one paragraph email kinda guy who has a hard time not communicating a sense of rudeness due to brevity, but I look up here and have written a fricking novel about the things you’re doing right. I truly believe that what you’re doing is the best strategy to bring all the golf influencers together on a single platform for discussion.

Sincerely. Well done mate. Two thumbs up.

Jeremy White, CEO Connect Golf

Weekly Reminders

Do you have updates to share with the #GolfChat community.  Email me with the cool things you’ve been up to and I’ll be sure to share those with our #GolfChat members!

Comment below if you have any comments, questions, or ideas as it pertains to #GolfChat.

Learn more about some of my Top 82 Golf Twitter Accounts to follow in 2015 – http://19thholemedia.com/top-82-golf-twitter-accounts-follow-2015/

Want to get more involved with #GolfChat and be notified via email about upcoming #GolfChat’s and opportunities.  Sign up for the #GolfChat newsletter!  – https://welborn.leadpages.net/golfchat/

Do You Have Any Suggestions for #GolfChat Questions?  Share Them With Us!

For more information about how to participate in #GolfChat, please check out this article – How to Participate in #GolfChat Twitter Chat – http://19thholemedia.com/how-to-participate-in-the-golfchat-twitter-chat/
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The Biggest Myth in Golf | @MotorCityJ

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#GolfChat Questions

#Q1 What was the most interesting thing to happen in golf this week? #GolfChat

#Q2 submitted by @golfmoreblog: Have you ever played in/ran a charity golf outing? If so, what what makes or breaks the event for you? #GolfChat

#Q3 submitted by @jcgolferVA: In lieu of all 3 major winners this year. “Does distance equal lower scores? #GolfChat

#Q4 submitted by @cencalhack: What is the biggest myth in golf? ex. Bunker is easiest shot in #golf. #GolfChat

#Q5 submitted by @eGullGolf: Should juniors play in adult club competitions? #GolfChat

#Q6: If you could invite any three people (to complete your #GolfChat foursome) to participate in #GolfChat who hasn’t participated already, who would they be and why? #GolfChat

Golf Chatter Bio: @MotorCityJ

 


Real Name: Jim JT Tachar Jr.
Location: Augusta, Michigan

What Do You Order from the #GolfChat Bar?

Best Club in a golf bag is Canadian Club.. I like Fat Tire and Scotch!!!

How Did You Get Into Golf?

Learned golf from my dad. Blue collar guy in sporting goods sales. Golf and bowling is what we did together.

What Are You Doing in Golf and Why?

Takes my mind away from things for a few hours. I can be a legend or a goat.  

Favorite #GolfChat Topics?

I really hate footgolf and the ass kissing of one Tiger Woods my the media. 

Favorite Golf Quote?

I can quote Caddyshack but to me I love Dead Solid Perfect(the movie) but favorite quote…”Take Dead Aim”

Favorite Golf Destination and Why?

Boyne Highlands and most all courses here in Michigan…

How Do You View the State of the Game of Golf?

Yes, It needs help. TV needs to show more golf and less opinions. Tell the new watcher the rules on why he/she did that drop there or what options are.

Who Are Your Favorite #GolfChatters and Why?

They all are great. Opinions very but you all have one. That’s what’s great. Love me or hate me we all love this great game called GOLF!

Favorite Golfers and Why?

I love the game in general…from Jordan to Rory and yes even Tiger….Golf is in great shape with the talent it has…no rivals needed just great golf.

 

#GolfChat – How to Build a Genuine Community Online by Jeremy White CEO of Connect Golf

 

Jeremy White, aka @connectgolf, wrote my this fantastic email the other day that I just had to share.  Would love to know what you all think about this email.

 

Zeb

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#GolfChat – How to Build a Genuine Community Online by Jeremy White CEO of Connect Golf

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Jeremy White, CEO of Connect Golf, Genuine Community

Jeremy White, CEO of Connect Golf

Marketing is, at its simplest, working out what people need and communicating that your product can serve them. Given the barrage of marketing messages, most people are switched off to traditional mediums, so it’s key to build the awareness first and that happens best in places where people are engaged. Mostly online communities. Only then might they switch on and start listening to what you’re saying.

You don’t need a college degree to figure it out. Common sense is all that’s needed and you’ve got that in bucketloads. Plus the courage to actually get out and give it a shot. No doubt there are plenty of history teachers and others who have a good idea to fill a niche, but they never have the guts to quit their jobs and carpe diem the heck out of their idea.

When I started building Connect Golf, I knew it needed to be attached to a community, but also knew communities were, understandably, suspicious of brands. It is also difficult to find communities without agendas. They exist, but it none represent the greater golfing demographic. The bigger social media platforms have some large communities when you look it on pure member numbers. However you can’t filter out the brands and individuals doing not-so-subtle self-promotion stuff or even the randoms posting pics of themselves on their latest golf holiday. Let me rephrase that, you can filter them, but you can’t be bothered. Most members aren’t even active and a post’s visibility is questionable to say the least.

It’s quite a coincidence, but true all the same, that I came to the view that a Twitter chat for golf was needed to solve most of the issues noted above – excepting the occasional and to be honest quite brilliant moderator stunts involving surprise female pro golfers and car brands (I’m a huge marketing cynic, but was happily tweeting with @lexus mentions). I realised that being a wannabe brand, doing it myself would probably lack credibility with participants, but the very next week I came across month 2 of #Golfchat. Problem solved!

Your role, experience, podcast, website, Twitter account etc. is based around the personal brand of Zeb Welborn, so while most people get that part of the exercise is to grow your own brand, they’re fine with that because they can see, hear and read the story behind it. Done for the right reasons and you’re building a no-nonsense community with golf at the core.

At the door to many online golf communities you have to read a heap of rules about what not to do on those platforms or forums, but with #GolfChat there’s none of that, yet people instinctively know how to behave. Yes we all want more business or more subscribers or more readers or more impressions or whatever, but the #GolfChatters generally understand that the way to build a brand via social media is to participate. Just participate and not sell. Pure and simple, we just talk golf and that’s cool from the perspective that we’re not in our usual sales mode. As John from @golfbloggercom would say, we’re just sitting at the #GolfChat bar and talking about the sport.

I’m usually your one paragraph email kinda guy who has a hard time not communicating a sense of rudeness due to brevity, but I look up here and have written a fricking novel about the things you’re doing right. I truly believe that what you’re doing is the best strategy to bring all the golf influencers together on a single platform for discussion.

Sincerely. Well done mate. Two thumbs up.

Jeremy White, CEO Connect Golf

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The Open #GolfChat | @golfbloggercom

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#GolfChat Questions

#Q1 What was the most interesting thing to happen in golf this week? #GolfChat

#Q2: Have you or do you know anyone who has played St. Andrews? What did you think of the course this week? #GolfChat

#Q3: What will be your favorite memory from the 2015 British Open? #GolfChat

#Q4 submitted by @todd_fitness: How can the PGA Tour stop fans from yelling after a shot? #golfchat #GolfChat

#Q5: How do you determine where the correct tees to play from are? #GolfChat

#Q6 What is the greatest rivalry in golf? #GolfChat

Photo from @GetawaysGolf
The Open #GolfChat

Golf Chatter Bio: @golfbloggercom

@golfbloggercom #GolfChat Bio

Real Name: John Retzer
Location: Ann Arbor, Michigan

What Do You Order from the #GolfChat Bar?

Bourbon Sour
2 Ounces Lemon Juice (fresh)
1 Ounce Simple Syrup
5 Ounces Bourbon
garnish with a maraschino cherry or two

How Did You Get Into Golf?

I’m a handy guy and one day a golf teaching pro friend asked me for help repairing a club. I thought it was an interesting project and ended up building a set. Then the friend gave me a few lessons to go with my set of clubs, and I was hooked. I bet I’m one of the few people in existence who built his own set of clubs before ever setting foot on a course.

What Are You Doing in Golf and Why?

Since 2004, I’ve been posting daily material on GolfBlogger.Com. The tally now stands at more than 10,000 articles comprising some eight million words.

I see GolfBlogger.Com as the blog of golf’s 99% — the working stiffs who play at munis with ten year old clubs and whose family and work preclude long hours at the course and range. These are the people left behind by the Major Golf Media, whose reviews of equipment, courses and topics often are more applicable to the low digit handicapper and well-heeled executive.

Since I am one of those working stiffs — GolfBlogger.Com is not my day job — I like to think that what I write is often more relevant than the MGM.

Favorite #GolfChat Topics?

#rakes
Playing from the correct tees
Tiger Woods (I’ve never been a fan).
The (imaginary) crisis in golf

Favorite Golf Quote?

Golf is played on a five inch course: the space between your ears. — Bobby Jones

Favorite Golf Destination and Why?

Northern Michigan. Even if I didn’t live in Michigan, I think I would want to return here again and again. There are more than 800 courses in Michigan, and many of the absolute best of them are in the Northern half. The prototypical “Up North” Michigan course is physically huge, featuring magnificently isolated holes cut through forest and across marsh, with significant elevation changes. The scenery ranges from dramatic to peaceful to simply sublime. 

How Do You View the State of the Game of Golf?

I don’t think there’s anything “wrong” with the game. What we had was a “bubble,” similar to the real estate bubble that crashed the economy. This bubble, however, was the Tiger Bubble. Developers, manufacturers, and other golf industry players seriously miscalculated the long term (and even near term) effects of Tiger’s popularity.

A decline from an artificial high is not a decline, but a correction. Even so, the number of golfers is up from 5 million in 1960 to 25 million today. Five million golfers in 1960 was 2.7% of the population. Twenty five million golfers today represents 7.8% of the population.

Who Are Your Favorite #GolfChatters and Why?

I enjoy the whole crew. That’s why I keep returning to the #golfchat pub. But if I HAVE to choose, here are are specific reasons for two of them:

@connectgolf – I like to read what a person on the other side of the planet has to say about golf. Jeremy’s tweets are always interesting.

@motorcityJ – I like Jim for the opposite reason of Jeremy. He’s right here in Southeastern Michigan and give me a chance to see my own golfing world through another set of eyes.

Favorite Golfers and Why?

Among active players, I pay attention to Phil Mickelson, Rickie Fowler and of course Jordan Spieth and Rory McIlroy.

I also have started to enjoy watching Tiger Woods. It’s like watching NASCAR for the crashes.

Weekly Reminders

Do you have updates to share with the #GolfChat community.  Email me with the cool things you’ve been up to and I’ll be sure to share those with our #GolfChat members!

Comment below if you have any comments, questions, or ideas as it pertains to #GolfChat.

Learn more about some of my Top 82 Golf Twitter Accounts to follow in 2015 – http://19thholemedia.com/top-82-golf-twitter-accounts-follow-2015/

Want to get more involved with #GolfChat and be notified via email about upcoming #GolfChat’s and opportunities.  Sign up for the #GolfChat newsletter!  – https://welborn.leadpages.net/golfchat/

Do You Have Any Suggestions for #GolfChat Questions?  Share Them With Us!

For more information about how to participate in #GolfChat, please check out this article – How to Participate in #GolfChat Twitter Chat – http://19thholemedia.com/how-to-participate-in-the-golfchat-twitter-chat/
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Golf Chatter Bios, Current Events, a Hole in One and Logo Wars | @aclevergirl

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This week I’ve decided to make some changes to #GolfChat.  The first change will be the change in the first question of #GolfChat which will now always be:What is the MOST interesting thing to happen in golf this week?

This will give everyone an opportunity to discuss current events outside of the regular scope of #GolfChat.

The second change is that we’ll now start including #GolfChatter Bios in our weekly emails which will highlight someone who participates regularly in #GolfChat.

#GolfChat Questions

#Q1 What was the most interesting thing to happen in golf this week? #GolfChat

#Q2 submitted by @todd_fitness Who is going to win the Open? #GolfChat

#Q3 submitted by @clawdaddy12: How can I get my girlfriend more interested in golfing? #GolfChat

#Q4 submitted by @aspittle: How do you feel about hearing Music on the driving range when practicing and/or when playing golf in general? #GolfChat

#Q5 submitted by @CowanBrew: what is @TopgolfOKC doing so well to attract teenagers & how can Golf overall learn from them? #GolfChat

#Q6 submitted by @jcgolferVA: How much do you budget for a round of golf? #GolfChat

Golf Chatter Bio: @aclevergirl

Real Name:  Cassandra
Location:  Phoenix, AZ

What Do You Order from the #GolfChat Bar?

Bloody Mary in the morning. Beer at lunch. Fireball towards the end of the round.

How Did You Get Into Golf?

Every Thursday, half of my department would leave work a little early for golf league play. After a few months of being the only one stuck in the office on Thursday afternoons, I was motivated to take a golf class from the local community college–it was essentially 22 hours of group lessons for $139, and counted for P.E. credit! Then I joined their golf league, and the rest is history.

What Are You Doing in Golf and Why?

The prize I have my eye on is to become a legitimate bogey golfer. I know I’m not a gifted player–the absence of paychecks and sponsors is my first clue–but as much as I enjoy playing, I want others to enjoy playing with me and it’s hard to enjoy playing with a high handicapper. I’m about a 21 these days, so I still have work to do.

I also enjoy planning tournaments, including a charity tournament I’ve held for a couple years in the Phoenix area. Event planning is always fun, but even better on a golf course!

Favorite #GolfChat Topics?

I enjoy everything that is social about golf. I particularly enjoy listening to the golf experiences from other women and hearing the perspectives of course owners on all the things we golfers complain about.

Also, Fireball.

Favorite Golf Quote?

“Even a blind squirrel finds a nut sometimes.” I don’t think that’s a real quote from golf, but it’s a good line when your ball finally, humbly finds its way and your playing partners get ecstatic for you because your game finally showed up.

Favorite Golf Destination and Why?

I’ve only had a few golf vacations! I’d never turn a Pebble Beach opportunity, but I’ve really enjoyed playing the courses at universities which have a PGM program. The course may or may not be technically challenging, but knowing I’m playing a course built and maintained on the blood, sweat and tears of it’s students gives me pure satisfaction and pleasure. I thoroughly enjoyed everything about my experience at the Mississippi State University golf course in particular.

How Do You View the State of the Game of Golf?

Generally speaking I think the state of the game is okay-ish. I worry about “growing the game” efforts and am excited to see how programs such as The First Tee are growing the game–but is the program drawing in new young golfers, or just a haven for youth who would be otherwise golfing elsewhere? I also worry about the sustainability of golf courses from a water/drought/environmental perspective.

Who Are Your Favorite #GolfChatters and Why?

I enjoy all our #golfchatters! It’s a diverse group of golfers who enjoy articulating their opinions respectfully, and don’t mind a jab here and there for good measure. That right there describes my favorite type of people to play a round with. And, you know, Fireball.

Favorite Golfers and Why?

I’ve been a fan of Christina Kim’s personality, irreverence and talent since before I even played golf.

I enjoy watching closely Michelle Wie and Sandra Gal. They are as tall as I am so I figure if they can do it, I can do it (right??).

Lexi, Paula and Christi Kerr are others I enjoy watching and for whom I cheer. Lexi & Paula in particular are great using Instagram to connect with fans.

Congratulations!

#GolfChatter @IT_guy8706 got a Hole in One this week!

“@ZebWelborn Figured out the way to get away from putting when struggling with it. Just ACE hole #8!”

Be sure to congratulate @IT_guy8706 on his recent Hole in One!

#GolfChat Logo Wars

We’ve had several #GolfChatters recently design logos/designs for #GolfChat.  Which one is your favorite?

#GolfChat

by @aspittle

by @rickyleepotts
by @McTwentyTwo

Weekly Reminders

Do you have updates to share with the #GolfChat community.  Email me with the cool things you’ve been up to and I’ll be sure to share those with our #GolfChat members!

Comment below if you have any comments, questions, or ideas as it pertains to #GolfChat.

Learn more about some of my Top 82 Golf Twitter Accounts to follow in 2015 – http://19thholemedia.com/top-82-golf-twitter-accounts-follow-2015/

Want to get more involved with #GolfChat and be notified via email about upcoming #GolfChat’s and opportunities.  Sign up for the #GolfChat newsletter!  – https://welborn.leadpages.net/golfchat/

Do You Have Any Suggestions for #GolfChat Questions?  Share Them With Us!

For more information about how to participate in #GolfChat, please check out this article – How to Participate in #GolfChat Twitter Chat – http://19thholemedia.com/how-to-participate-in-the-golfchat-twitter-chat/
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#GolfChat is this Tuesday, July 7 at 5pm PST | Jordan Spieth

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#GolfChat is this Tuesday, July 7 at 5pm PST | Jordan Spieth
Do You Have Any Suggestions for #GolfChat Questions?  Share Them With Us!

#GolfChat

Join us weekly for #GolfChat, every Tuesday at 5pm PST!

For more information about how to participate in #GolfChat, please check out this article – How to Participate in #GolfChat Twitter Chat – http://19thholemedia.com/how-to-participate-in-the-golfchat-twitter-chat/

#Q1 submitted by @golfmoreblog: Is there enough done to grow golf? #GolfChat

#Q2 submitted by @3JackAlmanac: What’s the best swing tip you have ever heard? #GolfChat

#Q3 submitted by @PtPGolfer: In the golf swing, does the body drive the hands or does the hands drive the body? #GolfChat

#Q4 submitted by @jcgolferVA: What club or clubs in your bag cost you the most strokes? Driver,wedges,putter,irons? #GolfChat

#Q5 submitted by @DaveHeald: My fellow pros/instructors. When do you find time to actually play golf? #GolfChat

#Q6 submitted by @gregmac52094: Will @JordanSpieth pull of the grand slam? I think so #GolfChat

“Golf Chatter”

Do you have updates to share with the #GolfChat community.  Email me with the cool things you’ve been up to and I’ll be sure to share those with our #GolfChat members!

Comment below if you have any comments, questions, or ideas as it pertains to #GolfChat.

Learn more about some of my Top 82 Golf Twitter Accounts to follow in 2015 – http://19thholemedia.com/top-82-golf-twitter-accounts-follow-2015/

Want to get more involved with #GolfChat and be notified via email about upcoming #GolfChat’s and opportunities.  Sign up for the #GolfChat newsletter!  – https://welborn.leadpages.net/golfchat/

#GolfChat News:

I was featured in this months edition of Southland Golf as a Game Changer.

Read the article: Game Changers: Zeb Welborn

We got a shout out from @Avgjoegolf on his blog, Average Joe Golf, when he wrote:

It seems that this question tends to linger in the background of golf regardless of the many efforts being made to “grow the game”.  Twitter has provided a vehicle for #golfchat (the brainchild of Zeb Welborn) on Tuesdays at 5 pm PST that stimulates conversation based on user submitted questions about the game of golf . . .”

Read the article here: Is the Game of Golf Still to Elite?

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