S13, Ep 13: Golf Instruction Hall of Famer Jim McLean + Nicklaus Design Insights with Michael Riley | Improve Your Golf Knowledge & Course Strategy
- S13E13
- 1:49:11
- March 31st 2026
Hi folks… welcome in to this bonus edition of Next on the Tee—where golf legends live and your game gets better.
This week, I’m joined by two incredible guests from different sides of the game.
First, Hall of Fame instructor Jim McLean shares insights from his legendary career, including his recent induction into the PGA of America Hall of Fame, stories from his college days at the University of Houston where he teamed with other golf legends and great friend of the show John Mahaffey, plus Bruce Lietzke, Bobby Watkins, Bill Rodgers, and Tom Jenkins to dominate and win the 1970 National Championship. He writes all about it in his new book, "The Houston Dynasty, Tales From College Golf's Greatest Team," which is available now on Amazon.com. From there, I get his take on technology vs. feel in modern golf instruction, we dive into his work developing players around the world, like James Nicholas, who recently won on the Korn Ferry Tour, and what it was like opening his golf school in South Korea.
Then, golf course designer Michael Riley joins me to talk about building world-class courses with the Nicklaus Design team, his award-winning work at Reunion Golf Club, and how great courses are created from vision to reality. You’ll also hear stories about working with Jack Nicklaus, taking long plane rides on Air Bear with him, and the competitive spirit of the “Big 3” in course design. From there, we get into the work he's doing designing backyard putting greens for Southwest Greens. Ever dreamed of having a putting green in your backyard? I know I have. Michael can make that dream come true...
If you’re looking for golf tips, instruction insights, course design secrets, and great golf stories, this episode has it all.
Thanks for pressing play—and if you enjoy the show, please subscribe so you never miss an episode of Next on the Tee.
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Next on the Tee, Where Golf Legends Live & Your Game Gets Better
Next on the Tee with Chris Mascaro is a conversation-driven golf podcast built on gratitude, storytelling, and a genuine love for the game. Each week, award-winning host Chris Mascaro welcomes golf legends, major champions, top instructors, broadcasters, caddies, and industry insiders to share the stories you won’t hear anywhere else—stories that entertain, inspire, and help you play better golf.
More than swing tips and scorecards, Next on the Tee is about the people who make the game special. From behind-the-scenes moments at major championships to practical instruction you can take straight to the course, every episode blends insight, heart, and a deep appreciation for the game’s traditions and its future.
Whether you’re a lifelong golfer or simply someone who loves great stories, this is your front-row seat to the heart of the game—where golf legends live, your game gets better, and gratitude always leads the way.
And as always…thank you for pressing play and sharing the show.
Meet the Host
I’m Chris Mascaro, who is blessed to be the award-winning host and creator of Next on the Tee. The heart of the show is a deep gratitude for my guests who share great stories, and a genuine love for the game of golf. Each week, I’m fortunate to sit down with golf legends, major champions, top instructors, broadcasters, caddies, and storytellers who are kind enough to share their time, insights, and experiences with all of us.
I believe golf is at its best when it brings people together. My goal with every episode is to go beyond the leaderboard and the swing tips, and instead focus on the stories, lessons, and moments that stay with us—both on and off the course. I want listeners to enjoy the game more, think about it a little differently, and feel connected to the people who have shaped it.
Next on the Tee has been honored with multiple industry awards, including w3, Davey, and Communicator Awards, and I’m incredibly grateful for that recognition. Even more meaningful to me is the community that’s grown around the show—“Next on the Tee Nation.” I never take for granted that you choose to spend your time here, and I’m thankful every time you press play.
At the end of the day, I approach each episode with humility, curiosity, and appreciation—for the guests who trust me with their stories, and for the listeners who continue to take the journey with me.