Season 12, Episode 7 Part 1: Insights from the Pros: John Hughes Discusses Equipment vs. Lesson Plus Golf Goals and John Mahaffey Reflects on His Career & Tour Changes.
- S12E7
- 57:22
- February 19th 2025
In Part 1 of Season 12, Episode 7, I'm joined by John Hughes and John Mahaffey.
John Hughes, is one of only 448 among approximately 30,000 PGA members to reach Master Professional Status. He has been recognized by Golf Digest as a top instructor in Florida, and The Golf Range Association as a Top 100 Growth of the GAme Instructors. During our conversation, John offers his perspective on whether investing in the latest and greatest golf equipment can enhance your game or if those funds are better spent on lessons. He also provides strategies for setting effective golf goals, discussing whether to aim for reducing stroke counts or going after milestone scores such as breaking 100, 90, or 80.
Following John, I welcome back 1970 NCAA National Champion and 1978 PGA Champion John Mahaffey. John was a great player, but he's an even better person which I hope you get a sense of as you listen to his insights. John shares the ironic story of winning the 1978 American Optical Classic by two strokes over Dr. Gil Morgan—the only optometrist on Tour. He also weighs in on the upcoming structural changes to the PGA Tour, including reduced field sizes and fewer available Tour cards. Additionally, John names one of the most formidable competitors from the 70s and 80s—a choice that may surprise listeners. Finally, he offers a unique perspective on why former President Donald Trump might be the key to bringing together the PGA Tour and LIV Golf merger.
Tune in for these great conversations, expert insights, and much more on this week’s episode!
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I have a passion for game that started when I was 12 years old playing golf in the evenings with my father. I took lessons from a gentleman named Ken Friend at Tides Golf Club in Seminole, Florida and I have loved the game ever since. I grew up idolizing Jack Nicklaus. The '75 & '86 Masters remain two of my favorite sports memories.
Augusta National is my favorite place on the planet. Attending The Masters tournament is one of the highlights of every year since 2001. I cherish walking those hallowed grounds. It gives me a feeling of wonder and excitement that has become a part of me and I never want it to leave.
I was born in Pittsburgh and the Steelers, Penguins, and Pirates are in my DNA. I also lived outside of Boston for several years and spending time at Fenway Park and the Boston Garden, infused my soul with the Red Sox and Celtics.
Tranquil late afternoon rounds of golf with my father and son some of my happiest moments. My annual golf trip with my buddies is always another highlight of the golf year. I also enjoy going to our local PGA Tour SuperStore and testing out new equipment with my son; it's one of our favorite things to do together.
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I have been privileged to have great players like Hal Sutton, Mark Calcavecchia, John Cook, Olin Browne, Tim Simpson, Donnie Hammond, Chip Beck, Scott McCarron, Frank Nobilo, Ian Baker-Finch, Mark Wiebe, Suzy Whaley, Dottie Pepper, Jane Blalock, Tom Purtzer, John Mahaffey, Shaun Micheel, Rick Fehr, Dave Stockton, Dave Stockton Jr., Billy Mayfair, Jim Gallagher Jr., Nick O'Hern, plus several others become regular guests and friends. The Top Instructors in the game like Tom Patri, Rob Strano, Brian Jacobs, Jim McLean, Cindy Miller, Debbie O'Connell, Tim Cusick, John Hughes, Michael Breed, Kellie Stenzel, Michelle Holmes, Alison Curdt, Andy Traynor, and many many more join me each week to help you play your best golf.
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