Tee 2 Green Golf Podcast

What does it take to envision something that doesn't exist- and have the courage to bring it to life?

For Ken Bentley, Founder and CEO of the APGA tour, the journey began long before the Tour became a reality.

A native of South Central Los Angeles, Ken learned early what it meant to stand out. As the only African American play on the University of California, Santa Barbara's men's tennis team, he developed a perspective shaped by determination, perseverance, willingness and a quiet confidence to pursue a path few had traveled.

That same spirit followed him into a successful corporate career, where his transition from tennis to golf would eventually inspire a much larger vision: creating greater access and opportunity for talented golfers pursuing their professional dreams. Today, the APGA Tour represents the realization of that vision, supported by corporate partners who recognize the importance of investing in talent, opportunity, and the future of golf.

But Ken isn't finished dreaming.

In this compelling conversation on the Tee 2 Green Golf Podcast, Ken reflects on his journey, the evolution of the APGA tour, the power of strategic partnerships, and his vision for what comes next- including the possibility of a women's APGA Tour.

From South Central Los Angeles to shaping the future of professional golf, Ken Bentley's story reminds us that vision is only the beginning.

Tee 2 Green Golf Podcast: Conversations Connecting Golf, People & Possibilities

What does it take to turn collegiate golf success into a career at the professional level?

In this episode of the Tee 2 Green Golf Podcast, we sit down with Kendall Jackson, a Pearland, Texas native, Howard University graduate, and rising professional golfer with a powerful game and an even stronger sense of purpose.

A former multisport athlete, Kendall brings natural athleticism, impressive distance off the tee, and a relentless commitment to improving her game. A decorated collegiate golfer at HU, Kendall is now navigating the demanding journey toward her ultimate goal: competing on the LPGA Tour.

Throughout our conversation, Kendall demonstrates a maturity beyond her years. She's insightful, grounded, reflective, and remarkably clear about who she is and where she wants to go. We explore her golf journey, the importance of consistency, her approach to practice and preparation, and those incremental improvements that can make all the difference when competing inside the ropes.

Beyond golf, Kendall shares a perspective shaped by family, education, purpose, and a desire to create opportunities for others. This is a conversation about more than golf. It's about preparation, perseverance, self-awareness, and the determination to turn potential into performance.

Join us for another compelling conversation on Tee 2 Green Golf Podcast, where we share the stories shaping the game of golf.

What does the journey to the PGA Tour look like when talent, perseverance and purpose all travel together?

On this episode of the Tee 2 Green Golf Podcast, we sit down with APGA Tour standout Andrew Fernandes, a Cerritos, California native whose ultimate destination is clear: the PGA Tour.

Fernandes added an important milestone to that journey in 2026 when he captured the inaugural Michael Eaves Classic at the TPC New Orleans. We discuss that victory, his development as a player, and the experiences that continue to shape his pursuit of golf at the highest level.

Andrew also takes us back to where the journey began, including time spent at Iron Wood Nine, and shares the influence of two legendary role models: Tiger Woods and Kobe Bryant. However, Andrew's story extends beyond golf. "Helping others is a passion of mine, " Andrew says, and he is putting those words into action. Through his APGA Tour membership, mentoring and community involvement, he is using his growing platform to invest in others while continuing to chase his own dream.

This episode is a conversation about golf, ambition, resilience, giving back and the road toward the PGA Tour.

What does it take to lead Team USA on one of the biggest stages in women's golf?

On this episode of the Tee 2 Green Golf Podcast, U.S. Solheim Cup Captain Angela Stanford joins us for a wide-ranging conversation about preparing to lead the Americans into one of golf's most intense and compelling team competitions.

A seven-time LPGA Tour winner and major champion, Stanford brings decades of competitive experience. This includes six Solheim Cup appearances as a player and now the captaincy. However, leading from outside the ropes presents a different challenge.

We talk about her leadership philosophy, specific strengths of the 12 players, course setup and what she would like her players to experiencing representing the United States. Captain Stanford reflects on her own Solheim Cup experiences, what she's learned and how these lessons are influencing the kind of captain that she intends to be.

Our conversation is about preparation, leadership, trust and creating an environment where talented professionals can perform at their best when the stakes are highest.

Join us for a special Tee 2 Green Golf Podcast conversation with U.S. Solheim Cup Captain Angela Stanford.

Seven-time Emmy Award-winning broadcaster Michael Eaves has built one of the most respected careers in sports media, earning the trust of audiences through professionalism, authenticity, and an unwavering commitment to excellence.

But long before ESPN, Michael was a young golfer in Kentucky who qualified for the Kentucky State High School Golf Tournament before walking on to the University of Kentucky Men's Golf Team. Today, he brings the same passion for the game to millions of viewers as one of ESPN's premier broadcasters and a voice of The Masters.

Away from the camera, Michael continues to shape golf's future as a member of the APGA Tour Board of Directors, helping create opportunities for the talented players and advancing a more inclusive game for generations to come.

In this episode of the Tee 2 Green Golf Podcast, Michael reflects on the journey from competitor to broadcaster, the responsibility that accompanies a national platform, and why creating opportunities for others has become one of the defining missions of his career.

This conversation is about much more than broadcasting. It's about leadership, legacy, representation, and the enduring belief that success is measured not only by what you accomplish, but by the doors you help open for others.

In this episode, you'll hear about:

• Growing up with golf in Kentucky
• Walking on to the University of Kentucky Men's Golf Team
• Serving on the APGA Board of Directors
• The Future of the Game; Representation Matters

What does it take to chase the PGA Tour dream when life tests you in unimaginable ways?

In this episode of the Tee 2 Green Golf Podcast. we're joined by Greg Odom, Jr., one of the rising talents competing on the APGA Tour and PGA Tour Americas. A proud son of Memphis, Tennessee, Greg shares the mindset that has carried him through one of the most difficult moments of his life. This was the passing of his father during a tournament week that he ultimately went on to win. Hi story is one of extraordinary resilience, unwavering purpose, and remarkable poise.

Now a member of the APGA's World Wide Technology (WWT) Player Development Program, Greg discusses opportunities created through the APGA's partnership with WWT, the transition from standout collegiate golfer at Howard University to the professional ranks, and the daily discipline to compete at golf's highest levels.

You'll hear about the viral "Strike & Strap" moment that continues to be replayed on The Golf Channel. He discusses his passion for the quality of competition on the APGA Tour, and the gratitude that he carries for the organization.

Throughout the conversation, Greg's humble confidence shines through. He's grounded in where he comes from, grateful for the people who have helped him along the way and relentlessly focused on one destination...earning his PGA Tour card!

Whether you're a golfer, competitor, or someone pursuing a dream through adversity, Greg's journey is a powerful reminder that resilience, preparation, and belief often become your greatest competitive advantages.

In this episode of the Tee 2 Green Golf Podcast, I'm joined by Chase Johnson, a professional golfer competing on both the Advocates Professional Golf Association (APGA) and PGA Tour Americas.

From early childhood to today's fairways, Chase's determination has been consistent. A native of Ohio, he's earned opportunities through consistent play, resilience, and a commitment to continuous improvement. HIs journey reflects the realities of professional golf's journey- balancing competition at the highest levels while navigating the challenges that come with pursuing the PGA Tour dream!

In addition to his undeniable talent, Chase is grateful for the many opportunities that he's secured along the way. A self-described "ambassador" for the APGA, he is helping demonstrate how talent, perseverance and representation are shaping the future of golf.

During our conversation, we explore his journey, chance interactions, life between two tours and his ideal foursome. Chase's story is one of inspiration, perseverance, purpose plus a really clear focus about the road ahead. You will find valuable insights throughout this episode.

Please join me in welcoming professional golfer Chase Johnson to the Tee 2 Green Golf Podcast.

Marcus Byrd is one of the most accomplished players from the APGA Tour and is steadily advancing toward the PGA Tour. Over the past three and a half years, Marcus has captured six APGA Tour victories, recorded five runner-up finishes, and earned advancement opportunities on both the Korn Ferry Tour and PGA Americas Tour. His consistent success has positioned him among the most compelling rising players in professional golf.

Beyond the scorecard, Marcus is grounded, thoughtful, and deeply appreciative of those who have helped shape his journey. From his First Tee coach to encouragement from Tiger Woods, he reflects on the importance of belief, resilience, and a team in pursuing elite performance.

This conversation is insightful and powerful. While golf serves as the backdrop, this conversation extends far beyond the game. Marcus shares lessons on perseverance, confidence, handling adversity and remaining committed to the process. These insights resonate with athletes, professionals, leaders, and anyone pursuing personal growth.

Tune in to hear Marcus' remarkable journey, his vision for the future, and the mindset that continues to fuel his rise. You'll leave inspired to elevate both your game and your approach to life's challenges.

Kamaiu Johnson is an 8-time winner on the Advocates Professional Golf Association (APGA) Tour. In 2025 alone, he recorded two victories and four additional top 10 finishes. For Kamaiu, this was a continuation of a career defined by perseverance, self-belief, faith, and growth.

As he continues to build success, it hasn't been without heartache and a few bumps along the way. Both personally and professionally, he continues to find a way.

In this episode, Kamaiu speaks with remarkable transparency about the highs, the setbacks, and the discipline required to keep showing up when the path isn't easy. His strength and resiliency is grounded in faith, family, and a close circle of supporters who believe his best days are still ahead.

Kamaiu represents resilience, humility, and the unwavering belief that progress is always possible.

Tap in to the conversation. Support Kamaiu. Support the APGA Tour...and be reminded that your story is still being written.

Trey Rusthoven, Advocates Professional Golf Association (APGA) Tour member is one of the youngest to ever earn full playing privileges on the Tour. A multi-sport athlete, Trey's story is embedded in family, self-belief and a relentless work ethic. These qualities position him to compete at the highest levels of the game.

Grateful and humble, Trey's competitive spirit is unmistakable. In this conversation, he reflects on the impact of being a multi-sport athlete and how that foundation shaped his progression from junior golf to collegiate competition and now the professional ranks.

While deeply focused on his performance, Trey is equally intentional about his purpose. His vision led to the creation of the Trey Rusthoven Foundation, an initiative dedicated to ensuring the next generation of aspiring golfers has the support, access, and opportunity to pursue their dreams in the game.

Conversations like this remind us that success in golf, and in life, is built on discipline, gratitude, and a commitment to lifting others along the journey.

One of the great privileges of hosting the Tee 2 Green Golf Podcast is the opportunity to highlight players who are expanding the global footprint of the game.

The Fruits of Hard Work and Endless Practice: Georgia Oboh's Journey to the Ladies European Tour.

Georgia Oboh is a trailblazer in the global game of golf. Supported by a strong family foundation and guided by unwavering faith, Georgia has built her career through discipline, belief, and relentless practice. Introduced to the game by her grandmother and nurtured by her parents, she quickly recognized that golf would become her life's pursuit.

Today, Georgia stands as a shining example of golf's "Grow the Game" movement. As the first Nigerian woman to earn full playing status on the Ladies European Tour, she represents two pillars shaping the future of golf: global expansion and greater diversity in the sport.

Her journey stretches across continents, connecting Nigeria, Europe, the United States and the broader global golf community. With her sights set firmly on the pinnacle of professional golf, Georgia Oboh is helping inspire the next generation of players from Africa and beyond.

Tap into the conversation. Follow Tee 2 Green Golf Podcast and be first in line when new episodes drop...wherever you're listening around the world.

From the LPGA's dynamic Asia swing in Thailand to the iconic fairways of Riviera, the global game is in full stride. This week's episode breaks down Charley Hull's LET statement, Collin Morikawa's precision performance, and the momentum building across both tours. As the stars sharpen their form early in the season, we look ahead to who's poised to separate on one of golf's most respected stages. The season isn't just underway...it's accelerating!

The intensity of a child's passion becoming a dream. The sacrifice required to pursue it while navigating the complexity of life. The journey of discovering who you are when others define you by what you do…golf. Clarity of purpose shaped by belief, and faith.

Christyn Smith is a ladies professional golfer and so much more. In this inspiring and insightful conversation, she reflects on being introduced to the game at an early age and the realities of pursuing it at the highest level. Grounded, self-aware, and deeply passionate, Christyn shares the highs, the doubts, the growth, and the relentless pursuit that defines a professional athlete's path

Tap into the conversation. Follow Tee 2 Green Golf Podcast and be the first in line when new episodes drop- wherever you're listening around the world.

Welcome to Golf Season 2026! Across the world, your favorite golfers have rested, celebrated the holidays with family and friends and are pacing the fairways with shots and competition that keep us all attached.

In this episode, we tackle some of the sport's major headline along with overviews for the PGA, LPGA, LET, Sapphire and APGA tours. Finally, we get you ready for the PGA Tour's most raucous event...the Waste Management Phenix Open. We provide you with our favorites and sleepers.

Welcome to Season 2026!!!

Giulia Sergas

Destiny is in the vision. As a child, Giulia Sergas was curious. Her curiosity led to her having a golf club placed in her hand. At some point shortly after, the game became an obsession and that was followed by commitment, discipline and hours of practice. From there, she started competing in her native country of Italy. This passion for competition evolved into playing across the globe. Professionally, she won on the Ladies European Tour (LET), Ladies Professional Golf Association (LPGA) and Legends of the LPGA.

This journey was not without pitfalls. An impressive period of winning from 2000- 2016 that culminated in Giulia being selected to represent her country, Italy, as a member of the Summer Olympics team, she is transparent about the mental challenges that were present.

Today, she has an active relationship with golf. She's reflective, insightful and inspiring. Her passion for the sport remains clear. Join Giulia and I as we discuss these topics and more.

In this episode, we spotlight the Standard Legends of the LPGA Atlanta Open, a two-day celebration of golf that unites 28 Legends of the LPGA from across the U.S and abroad at BridgeMill Athletic Club in Canton, Georgia.

Beyond world-class competition, this event has a meaningful purpose; proceeds will support scholarships for junior golfers and a donation to Pancreatic Cancer Research.

Joining us is Denise Killeen- former LPGA pro and current Legend of the LPGA- who shares her journey in the game and the significance of the Legends Tour, the official senior tour of the LPGA.

Tune in for an inspiring conversation that blends sport, legacy, and impact both on and off the course.

As we wrap up Season 2 of the Tee 2 Green Golf Podcast, host Victor Patterson focuses on the noteworthy achievements and moments in golf, particularly involving the game's top players and key tournaments.

He highlights the impressive transition of friends of the podcast like Steve Kibare, Micaa Thomas, and Coach Andy Walker, as well as the dominant performances of Scottie Scheffler and Tom Kim on the PGA Tour.

The episode also talks about the significant events in the LPGA, including Amy Yang's major win and the mixed performances of top players like Lilia Vu and Nelly Korda. Victor discusses the standout performances on the APGA tour, Willie Mack III's recent accomplishments, and the US Olympic golf teams.

The narrative wraps up with reflections on the mental toughness required in golf, the tragic loss of Grayson Murray, and an encouragement for listeners to cherish and enjoy their own golfing experiences.

In this episode of the Tee 2 Green Golf Podcast, host Victor Patterson welcomes Erika 'Birdie' Shavers, a notable LPGA member and dedicated teacher from the Chicagoland area. Erika shares her inspiring journey from real estate to golfing, discusses the importance of community outreach, and elaborates on her role in growing the game of golf, particularly among women and communities of color. The episode also covers topics like the reinvention during challenging times and the magnetic draw of golf as a sport for all ages and backgrounds.

In this episode of the Tee 2 Green Golf Podcast, Victor Patterson and Solomon Hughes discuss the legacy of John Shippen Jr., the first American-born golf professional, and the ongoing efforts to increase diversity in the golf community. They delve into the initiatives by The John Shippen event series, its impact on providing opportunities for young black golfers, and the importance of representation and awareness in the sport. They also highlight upcoming events, the role of the John Shippen Sports Business Summit, and ways to support the initiatives through volunteerism and engagement.

For information about John Shippen:

www.TheJohnShippen.com

Facebook and Instagram: @TheJohnShippen

Twitter: @TheJShippen

In this episode of the Tee 2 Green Golf Podcast, host Victor Patterson interviews Vincent Whipple, the passionate founder of Golf Ankh. They dive into the intersection of entrepreneurship, purpose-driven work, and passion in the golf industry. Vincent shares his journey from being a veteran to founding Golf Ankh, a golf apparel brand that champions sustainability, cultural representation, and mental health. The discussion highlights the importance of community, representation, and collaboration in growing the game of golf.