The Hill Unscripted
The Hill Unscripted
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The Hill Unscripted is the official podcast of Maple Hill Golf, hosted by owner Bob Kitchen. It offers an unfiltered look at the golf world, with no topic off-limits. Episodes cover industry trends, behind-the-scenes stories from the shop, and honest insights for customers and passionate golfers. Guests include employees, family members, golf insiders, and others who share their perspectives.
Episodes
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How First Tee Changes Kids' Lives Through Golf 23.10.2026 47mSeason 2, Episode 18 - Bob Kitchen sits down with Tyler Smies, CEO of The First Tee of West Michigan, for a conversation that goes far beyond golf.In this episode:Tyler shares how First Tee uses the game to build character in more than 2,600 kids a year across West Michigan — with over half receiving free programming — and the pathways that turn kids into coaches, caddies, and college scholars. He also tells the incredible story of a student who went from losing his father at 13 to becoming a D1 golf coach.Plus: Why Maple Hill's donations matter (including 160 pairs of golf shoes), how the Golf Marathon record of 370 holes in one day came to be, and how YOU can get involved.🔗 GET INVOLVEDWebsite: firstteewestmichigan.orgContact Tyler: [email protected] equipment: drop off at the First Tee offices in Grand Rapids, Holland, Kalamazoo, or MuskegonVolunteer: 2 hours, once a week — no golf expertise needed🎙️ NEW EPISODES every other week. Subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts. -
Scotland Golf Trip: Visas, Birthdays & Runaway Carts 02.10.2026 54mSeason 2, Episode 17 - Bob Kitchen hosts a special reunion episode of The Hill Unscripted with his three good friends — Tim Dunkel, Rod Koning, and Todd Plummer — to relive the bucket-list golf trip they took to Scotland for Todd's 60th birthday. From the idea born at a local tavern after Todd sold his company, to six straight days of golf on Scotland's storied links, this episode is packed with laughs, history, and heart.In this episode:How a 60th birthday "idea thrown out at a bar" became a real Scotland trip, with Rod orchestrating the itinerary and Doug of Scratch Golf Tours making it all happenTim's airport nightmare: missing UK entry paperwork, a 3–5 day wait, a $2,800 one-way flight considered, and the ETA form that saved the dayThe Kingsbarns distillery tour, rooms overlooking the Road Hole at the Old Course Hotel, and dinner views over the North SeaThe courses: Jubilee, Kingsbarns, Muirfield, North Berwick, Gullane, and Dunbar — plus where each ranked at week's endMuirfield's pageantry: the original 13 Rules of Golf, "member for a day," and $17 drinksGullane's secret hilltop clubhouse — scotch, cigars, and cards, reserved for members over 80 with 30+ years of membershipTodd's 82 at Gullane, a 3-wood rocket, and the eagle putt with a club bought that morningTim's runaway electric cart at Dunbar — possibly the hardest anyone laughed all tripWhy the guys say: whatever it takes, get to ScotlandIf you're dreaming of a Scotland golf trip (or planning one), this is your insider guide wrapped in a great story. Subscribe on Spotify or YouTube, give us a like and a follow, and drop your dream Scotland course in the comments. -
Scotland Golf Trip Guide: Courses, Packing Tips, Caddies & More 18.09.2026 51mSeason 2, Episode 16 – Join Bob Kitchen, owner of Maple Hill Golf, as he sits down with Doug Imrie from Scratch Golf Tours to relive an unforgettable Scotland golf adventure. From the world-famous links of St. Andrews, Kingsbarns, Muirfield, North Berwick, Gullane, and Dunbar — to the incredible Scottish people, the food, the caddies, and the stories — this episode covers it all.Doug shares how Scratch Golf Tours started, their philosophy of fully customized golf trips, and why 30–40% of their clients keep coming back. Bob breaks down every detail of the trip: where they stayed (Old Course Hotel & Archerfield), the courses they played, the weather, what to pack (and what NOT to pack), tipping culture differences, and the legendary Dunvegan pub where Steph Curry once visited.Plus, Doug announces an exclusive opportunity to play Royal County Down — the #1 ranked course in the world — and a special offer: every group that books through Scratch Golf Tours receives a $100 Maple Hill voucher per person!If you've ever dreamed of golfing in Scotland, this is your roadmap. 🏌️♂️⛳🔔 New episodes of The Hill Unscripted drop every other week — subscribe so you never miss one!Connect with Scratch Golf Tours:Website & contact info:https://www.scratchgolftours.com/[email protected] video on their website:https://www.scratchgolftours.com/what-to-pack🎟️ Special Offer:Play the Home of Golf - Scotland, Ireland & England AwaitMaple Hill Golf has partnered with Scratch Golf Tours to help you experience the best golf that Scotland, Ireland, and England have to offer. From windswept Scottish links to Ireland's dramatic coastlines and England's historic clubs, Scratch Golf Tours builds custom golf trips to the courses every golfer dreams of playing. We handle the tee times, lodging, and logistics so you can focus on your game.Limited tee times are also available at Royal County Down in Newcastle, Northern Ireland - the No. 1 ranked golf course in the world. Availability is extremely limited, so reach out early if it's on your list.Plus: A $100 Maple Hill Golf Gift CardBook any golf trip through Scratch Golf Tours by December 31. 2026 and each golfer will receive a $100 Maple Hill Golf Gift Card once the trip deposit has been received.Wherever your next golf adventure takes you across Scotland, Ireland, or England, book with Scratch Golf Tours and get rewarded by Maple Hill Golf. -
Grace, Forgiveness, and Context: Bob Kitchen's Take on the Good Good & Callaway Controversy 02.09.2026 24mSeason 2, Episode 15 – In this episode of The Hill Unscripted, Bob Kitchen, one of the owners of Maple Hill Golf, shares his honest, from-the-heart perspective on the Good Good and Callaway Golf controversy — the ad that shook the golf world in August 2026.Bob isn't here to condone violence of any kind. But he is here to ask a bigger question: does one mistake — one poorly landed movie parody — get to define an entire company forever? Drawing on personal stories, faith, and 47 years of life experience, Bob makes the case for grace, forgiveness, and looking at the whole picture instead of just one rotten slice of the pie.This episode covers the full timeline of what happened, the fallout with retailers and partners, the apologies that followed, and why Bob believes we as a country need to take a collective breath.⚠️ Note from Bob: This podcast needs to be listened to in its entirety. Any part of it taken out of context could sound really, really bad — and that's not what this is about. Listen to the whole thing before reacting.💬 Join the ConversationNot everyone is going to agree with Bob on this one — and he knows it. If you have something to say (positive or negative), he'd genuinely love to hear from you. Email us with "Attention: Bob Kitchen" and he'll be happy to chat about grace, forgiveness, or anything else on your mind.🎧 Never Miss an EpisodeNew episodes of The Hill Unscripted drop every other week — real talk from inside the golf world, straight from the team at Maple Hill Golf. Subscribe wherever you listen to your podcasts, and hit the bell so you don't miss what's next.❤️ Bob's Closing Message"Be nice to one another, whether they deserve it or not. Just be kind. Everyone's going through something." -
92% of Golfers Use the WRONG Golf Ball 14.08.2026 34mSeason 2, Episode 14 – Welcome back to The Hill Unscripted — the official podcast of Maple Hill Golf! Every two weeks, host Bob Kitchen brings you real talk from inside the golf world. In Episode 14, Bob sits down with his brother Andy Kitchen to talk golf trips, equipment myths, the golf ball debate, mini drivers, and so much more — completely unscripted.This episode is packed with hot takes, brotherly banter, and insider knowledge from decades in the golf retail business. From debating who's the better golfer growing up, to revealing the one golf rule they'd scrap immediately, this conversation is a must-listen for any golfer who wants to actually understand their equipment.In this episode:🏌️ Andy's golf trip recap — A-Ga-Ming Golf Resort (Sundance, Torch & Charlevoix CC)🤔 What people get WRONG about golf balls (92% of you shouldn't be playing a tour ball!)⛳ The club most likely wrong for you in your bag right now🚗 Bad golf cart drivers — Andy's surprising pet peeve📏 Mini drivers: legit club or gimmick?🤯 The dumbest thing the Kitchen brothers did growing up (lawn chairs over the garage!)🎤 Walk-up songs, dream foursomes, and a lightning round you don't want to missNew episodes drop every other week. Subscribe wherever you listen to your podcasts!🔔 Don't forget: After this episode, stick around for "What's in the Bag" with Andy Kitchen! -
Inside Bridgestone Golf: Engineering, Tour Secrets & The RX Revolution 27.07.2026 1h 3mWelcome to Season 2, Episode 13 of The Hill Unscripted! 🎙️Join Bob Kitchen from Maple Hill Golf as he sits down with Adam Rehberg, Senior Marketing Manager at Bridgestone Golf, for an in-depth conversation about the golf ball industry, product development, and the story behind Bridgestone's game-changing RX series.In this episode, you'll discover:✅ Adam's unique journey from civil engineering student to assistant golf pro to 15 years at Bridgestone✅ How Bridgestone's massive rubber and polymer expertise gives them an edge in golf ball technology✅ The 24-36 month golf ball development process from prototype to launch✅ The creation of the RX and RXS golf balls for golfers with under 105 mph swing speeds✅ Behind-the-scenes collaboration with tour players like Tiger Woods, Bryson DeChambeau, and Fred Couples✅ Why being a small, tight-knit team at Bridgestone is actually an advantageWhether you're a golf equipment nerd, a Bridgestone player, or just curious about what goes into making the perfect golf ball, this episode delivers real insights from someone who lives and breathes golf ball development every day.Guest:Adam Rehberg - Senior Marketing Manager, Bridgestone Golf- 15 years with Bridgestone- Former R&D engineer- Former assistant golf professional- Engineering background from Florida State UniversityAbout The Hill Unscripted:Every two weeks, Bob Kitchen brings you real talk from inside the golf world—insights, stories, and conversations that matter to you as a golfer and valued part of the Maple Hill family. -
Father's Day Special: Life Lessons, Golf, and Growing Up Kitchen 19.06.2026 44mSeason 2, Episode 12 – In this special Father's Day episode of The Hill Unscripted, Bob Kitchen sits down with his oldest son, James Kitchen, for an honest conversation about golf, family, growing up in the golf business, and preparing for the next chapter of life.James recently graduated from Byron Center High School and will be heading to Michigan State University this fall to study engineering. Together, Bob and James reflect on favorite golf memories, life lessons learned through the family business, college plans, and what it was like growing up as the son of one of Maple Hill Golf's owners.Topics include:⛳ Growing up at Maple Hill Golf⛳ Favorite father-son golf memories⛳ Golf courses in Michigan and California⛳ Lessons learned from working in the family business⛳ The reality of being the owner's son⛳ Michigan State University and engineering plans⛳ Junior golf, golf equipment, and favorite clubs⛳ Whatnot live auctions and the future of Maple Hill⛳ Family traditions and Father's Day reflectionsIt's a fun, heartfelt, and often hilarious conversation between a father and son as one chapter closes and another begins.New episodes of The Hill Unscripted drop every other week.Subscribe, like, and share to support the show and the Maple Hill Golf family. -
The Formula That Built One of America's Best Junior Golf Programs 11.06.2026 38mSeason 2, Episode 11 – In this special episode of The Hill Unscripted, Bob Kitchen sits down with his father, Rich Kitchen—known to thousands simply as “The Pro.”With 51 years of experience at Maple Hill Golf and back-to-back NGCOA Player Development Awards, Rich shares the philosophy that has helped introduce thousands of children and adults to the game.Topics include:- How Maple Hill's junior golf programs work- Why kids learn differently than adults- The secret to making golf fun instead of frustrating- Pee-Wee, Junior Development, and Academy programs explained- The famous "Bucket A Day" program that gives juniors free range balls all year- Why Rich filled in every bunker when Maple Hill opened- Adult beginner clinics and common mistakes new golfers make- Why golf can be enjoyed at any age- The lessons Rich has learned after more than five decades teaching the gameWhether you're a parent looking to get your child started, an adult thinking about learning golf, or simply love hearing stories from one of the most respected golf professionals in the country, this episode is packed with insights, laughs, and timeless golf wisdom.New episodes of The Hill Unscripted every other week. -
The Golf Industry Makes NO Sense Right Now 23.05.2026 30mSeason 2, Episode 10 – In this episode of The Hill Unscripted, Bob Kitchen breaks down everything happening in the golf world right now—from LIV Golf drama and mini driver hype to zero torque putters, golf ball fitting, and the future of equipment.BK gives his honest take on:- Aaron Rai’s surprising PGA Championship win- Why mini drivers are exploding in popularity- The confusing future of LIV Golf- Whether zero torque putters are already fading- Why most golfers play the wrong golf ball- New Revelation Zero Torque putters from Maple Hill- Upcoming Cobra, Callaway, Mizuno & Wilson fitting eventsBob also shares personal stories about his son graduating, pickleball league disasters, and the growth of Maple Hill’s live selling shows on Whatnot and eBay Live.If you love golf equipment, golf business talk, and honest opinions about where the game is headed, this episode is for you.New episodes every other week from Maple Hill Golf. -
Meet the Mother Behind Maple Hill Golf 08.05.2026 24mSeason 2, Episode 9 – In this special Mother’s Day episode of The Hill Unscripted, Bob Kitchen sits down with his mother, Nancy Kitchen, for a heartfelt conversation about family, golf, memories, and the journey behind Maple Hill Golf.Nancy shares stories about raising Bob and Andy, how the family business started, their favorite golf memories together, and what it’s been like watching the next generation take over the company.The episode also dives into:- Nancy’s current golf bag setup- Her 6 hole-in-ones 😳- The best golfer in the Kitchen family- Family traditions and Belgian heritage- The evolution of Maple Hill Golf- Lessons about kindness, faith, and familyThis is one of the most personal episodes yet, and a special tribute to moms everywhere.Happy Mother’s Day from Maple Hill Golf. -
The Golf Industry Is Lying to You… (My Honest Rant) 24.04.2026 43mSeason 2, Episode 8 – In this solo episode of The Hill Unscripted, Bob Kitchen (BK) goes OFF on the golf industry.With over 30 years in golf retail, BK breaks down the biggest myths, bad advice, and marketing lies that are costing golfers money—and hurting their game.From zero torque putters to overpriced shafts, golf ball selection, and club fitting… this is the honest truth most companies won’t tell you.Topics covered:- Why golf is already hard—and you're making it harder- The truth about zero torque putters (and why they won’t fix your putting)- Why expensive shafts don’t change your swing- The biggest mistake golfers make when choosing a golf ball- When club fitting matters… and when it doesn’t- Why you should ignore what the pros play- The problem with “your buddy the expert”- How marketing is misleading golfers todayIf you want to save money, lower your scores, and stop falling for hype—this episode is for you.New episodes drop every other week from Maple Hill Golf. -
The Masters Experience You Don’t See on TV 17.04.2026 47mSeason 2, Episode 7 – Bob Kitchen is joined by his brother Andy Kitchen and Maple Hill GM Steve Strock to break down their unforgettable trips to the Masters at Augusta National—just as Rory McIlroy made history.From exclusive access at Berckmans Place to walking the course on Championship Sunday, they share what it’s really like inside Augusta—from the insane green speeds and elevation changes to the no-phone policy, merch experience, and surprisingly cheap food.They also cover:- What TV doesn’t show about Augusta National- The hardest holes and craziest greens- Insider tips if you ever go to the Masters- Rory’s historic win and tournament takeaways- The wild tech behind the merch shopIf you’ve ever dreamed of going to the Masters, this is the closest you’ll get without a badge. -
Wilson’s Comeback? The Truth About Performance, Price & Playing What Actually Works 27.03.2026 56mSeason 2, Episode 6 – In this episode of The Hill Unscripted, Bob Kitchen sits down with Harry Nodwell, Wilson Golf’s Global Product Line Manager, for an honest, behind-the-scenes look at one of golf’s most overlooked — and fastest rising — brands.From his journey at MyGolfSpy testing millions of golf balls to now leading global product development for Wilson, Harry breaks down what really matters in golf equipment — and why more golfers are starting to rethink what’s in their bag.This episode dives into:- Why Wilson is targeting serious ball strikers and competitive golfers- The new Staff Model XB irons — built to look like blades but perform like game improvement- The Dynapower Forge and the rise of the “player’s performance” category- Wilson’s most forgiving driver ever — the Max Plus- Why graphite iron shafts might be the next big shift in golf- The truth about brand bias — and why most golfers never try better options- How unbiased testing (like MyGolfSpy) is reshaping equipment decisionsBob and Harry also get into fitting philosophy, common mistakes golfers make (including shaft and lie angle misconceptions), and why performance should always beat ego when choosing equipment.Plus, insights on Wilson’s award-winning wedges and putters, what’s coming next in 2027, and why this legacy brand might be quietly building something big. -
Why Mizuno Is Built Different: Forging, Feel & the Truth About Quality 20.03.2026 45mSeason 2, Episode 5 – In this episode of The Hill Unscripted, Bob Kitchen sits down with Tim Heffelfinger, Mizuno Golf sales rep, to break down what truly separates Mizuno from the rest of the golf industry.From replacing a 30+ year legend to covering one of the largest territories in the Midwest, Tim shares his journey into the Mizuno brand — and why it’s gaining serious momentum as a complete golf company, not just an iron brand.But the real story?How Mizuno builds their clubs.Bob dives deep into Mizuno’s legendary grain flow forging process, where craftsmen spend 20–25 years mastering metalwork before ever touching a golf club. It’s a level of discipline and quality control that few — if any — companies can match.The episode also covers:- The new JPX ONE driver line and its unique nano alloy technology- Why Mizuno is finally competing in drivers, woods, and full bag setups- The breakout MX Speed Metal irons at a price point golfers didn’t expect- The evolution of the Mizuno Pro M13 & M15 irons- Why Mizuno’s shaft optimizer might be the best fitting tool in golf- How tour player feedback directly shapes Mizuno design- The rise of Mizuno wedges and putters — and why they’re gaining traction fastBob and Tim also talk about the state of the golf industry, the future of equipment innovation, and why proper fitting matters more than ever.If you’ve ever heard “Nothing feels like Mizuno,” this episode explains exactly why — and why more golfers are starting to pay attention. -
Zero Torque, Global Growth & the Future of Bettinardi 27.02.2026 56mSeason 2, Episode 4 – In this episode of The Hill Unscripted, Bob Kitchen welcomes Sam Bettinardi, President of Bettinardi Golf, for a deep dive into one of golf’s most respected family-run brands, and where it’s headed next.Following last season’s conversation with founder Bob Bettinardi, this episode shifts to the next generation. Sam shares how he went from growing up around the shop to leading a company that has expanded from 15 employees to 95, now operating in 45 countries with over 100,000 square feet of space.The conversation covers:- The rise of the Antidote Zero Torque putter, now Bettinardi’s top-selling line- What makes their zero torque design different from competitors- How tour players like Matt Kuchar, Matt Fitzpatrick, and Fred Couples influence product design- Why Sam spends an hour every morning inspecting quality himself- The real reason putter fitting matters more than most golfers realize- The story behind the Queen Bee line and its global impact- Bettinardi’s expansion into wedges, irons, and AI-driven innovationSam also shares personal stories — including winning the Butler National Club Championship four times — and explains why even he chooses performance over preference when it comes to what’s in the bag.From craftsmanship to culture, from tour feedback to global expansion, this episode pulls back the curtain on how Bettinardi plans to become not just a premium putter company, but a household name in golf. -
Quantum Leap: Callaway’s Bold New Tech & a 50-Year Golf Friendship 13.02.2026 45mSeason 2, Episode 3 – In this episode of The Hill Unscripted, Bob Kitchen sits down with longtime family friend and Callaway sales rep Mike Dykema for a conversation that blends cutting-edge golf technology with a 50-year relationship built on trust, loyalty, and love for the game.Bob and Mike reflect on the deep history between the Kitchen and Dykema families, dating back to their fathers’ legendary careers in golf equipment. From Power Built to Adams Golf to Callaway, the partnership has spanned decades — and now continues with the next generation.The conversation then shifts to what’s next in golf equipment.Mike breaks down Callaway’s brand-new Quantum line, featuring revolutionary Tri-force face technology — the first three-piece titanium driver face designed to stretch 14% more and respond 17% faster for increased ball speed and forgiveness. With five driver models and a full iron lineup built for every skill level, Quantum aims to fit everyone from beginners to Tour pros.Bob shares his personal testing experience in California, where the Triple Diamond Max helped him hit 26 of 28 fairways after months away from competitive golf.They also discuss:- Callaway’s $12 million Ai investment and how it’s reshaping club design- The future of golf fitting and a new technology launching soon- Why service separates Callaway from competitors- The importance of long-term business relationships in golf- Upcoming Maple Hill fitting events and how to get dialed inThis episode is equal parts innovation, loyalty, and inside-the-industry perspective — a must-listen for golfers who care about where the game is heading. -
Inside the Fitting Room: Dub Ogden on LIV, New Gear & Golf Truths 23.01.2026 43mSeason 2, Episode 2 – The Hill Unscripted, Bob Kitchen sits down with Maple Hill Golf’s head fitter and longtime friend, William “Dub” Ogden, for a wide-ranging, unfiltered conversation covering golf gear, industry drama, and life behind the scenes at one of the busiest fitting centers in the Midwest.Dub shares how he went from selling doors and windows to leading Maple Hill’s fitting department, how being a three-sport athlete (and the last guy to beat UFC’s Tony Ferguson in high school wrestling) shaped his approach to coaching, and why finding the right club for the right player matters more than chasing high-end “unicorn” upgrades.This episode dives into:- The future (or downfall) of LIV Golf- First thoughts on 2026 gear – Callaway Quantum, Cobra Optum, Mizuno’s new driver tech- Why Evnroll putters might be golf’s best-kept secret- Honest takes on low-spin driver myths, chippers, and 60-degree wedges- Upcoming Maple Hill events, live auctions, Midwest golf shows, and moreYou’ll also hear stories of hole-in-one drama, golf cart injuries, Dub’s dream foursome (Tiger, Daly, and Payne Stewart), and a behind-the-scenes look at Maple Hill’s evolving gear strategy going into 2026 and beyond. -
The Mind Behind the Roll: Guerin Rife on Innovation, Impact & the Future of Putting 13.01.2026 1h 1mSeason 2, Episode 1 – The Hill Unscripted returns for Season 2 with a heavy hitter: Guerin Rife, the legendary designer behind Rife Putters and Evenroll Golf.In this in-depth conversation with Bob Kitchen, Guerin walks through his journey from metal shop entrepreneur to industry innovator — revealing how he changed the putting game forever through groove technology, Sweet Face, and the iconic Two Bar Putter that took the Champions Tour by storm.You’ll hear stories and insights on:The origins of Sweet Face 2.0 and why it's helping golfers hit putts faster, softer, and straighterWhy even Tour pros miss the sweet spot — and how Guerin's grooves solve for itThe rise, sale, and rebirth of his brand through Evenroll GolfCompeting with the biggest names in golf while still building over 100 Tour wins worldwideThe evolution of zero torque design, hosel-free construction, and what’s coming nextPlus:Why Guerinn’s favorite putter ever is still the Two BarHow the Swedish Bikini Team inspired a hilarious dream foursome momentHis favorite U.S. course (spoiler: it’s not Pebble)What amateurs misunderstand most about MOI, sweet spots, and forgivenessWhether you’re a gear junkie, a student of putting mechanics, or just love hearing from true inventors who shape the game — this episode kicks off Season 2 with engineering precision and storytelling style. -
Inside Bettinardi Golf: Innovation, Legends, and One Hell of a Turkey Dinner 19.12.2025 1h 3mEpisode 17 – In this special episode of The Hill Unscripted, host Bob Kitchen sits down with one of the most respected names in golf — Bob Bettinardi, founder of Bettinardi Golf — for a wide-ranging and personal conversation that covers everything from CNC precision to celebrity putters, major wins, and the future of the flatstick.Bettinardi opens up about:- How he went from engineer to golf industry disruptor, pioneering the one-piece milled putter- His early days working with Scotty Cameron, including building the putter Bernhard Langer used to win the 1993 Masters- The moment he went all-in and launched Bettinardi Golf in 1999The two Bobs also talk about:- Tour success stories with Jesper Parnevik, Jim Furyk, and Vijay Singh- The rise of Bettinardi’s son Sam, who now runs day-to-day operations- How The Hive, Queen Bee, and Antidote lines became icons- Why Bettinardi believes zero torque tech is here to stay, and what’s coming next- Making custom putters for Mark Wahlberg, DJ Khaled, and Michael Jordan- A hilarious story involving Butler National, no menu, and a surprise Thanksgiving dinner in JulyYou’ll also hear his thoughts on:- Golf innovation vs tradition- Building a golf brand that lasts- Why Cypress Point edges out Pebble Beach (barely)- Playing with President Trump and Gary Player (and getting nervously roasted on the tee)This episode is a must-listen for any golf fan, gear nerd, or entrepreneur — filled with history, humor, and a rare look behind the scenes at one of the game’s most beloved brands. -
Callaway’s $1.5B Loss, Par 3 Strategy & Your Holiday Golf Gift Guide 22.11.2025 31mEpisode 16 – In this episode of The Hill Unscripted, host Bob Kitchen delivers a packed session of golf business insights, product tips, and holiday shopping help — just in time for Thanksgiving.Bob kicks things off with a sincere apology about a brand mention in a previous episode, reinforcing his commitment to keeping the podcast honest, informative, and professional.Then it's onto big stories in the golf world:- Callaway sells Top Golf at a $1.5B loss – What it says about the business of golf entertainment- Good Good finally adds female golfers – And why it matters- FootJoy’s evolution – From old-school to agile brand, and how they’re staying competitiveBob also answers listener questions about:- Teeing up on par threes – Should you? (Yes!)- Offset in golf clubs – What it is and why most golfers need itHe then shares his Holiday Golf Gift Guide, with personal recommendations at all price points — including gear from TaylorMade, Cobra, Bridgestone, Puma, Pins & Aces, and more. Expect honest takes on what’s worth the money, what’s moving fast, and which brands Maple Hill has gone deep on (think: 40,000+ shoes, 2,000 iron sets, and hundreds of bags).Finally, Bob runs through Maple Hill’s Black Friday promotions, including:- Bonus gift cards with every gift card purchase- Simulator passes, fitting discounts, and exclusive extras- Prepaid indoor golf packages for winter playPlus, a sneak peek at next episode’s special guest — Bob Bettinardi of Bettinardi Golf — and a quick Thanksgiving sign-off.0:00 Podcast Introduction and Apology1:43 Callaway Golf Sells Top Golf5:45 Good Good Adds Female Golfers7:57 Meeting with FootJoy Executives9:40 Should You Tee Up on Par Threes?11:32 Upcoming Bob Bettinardi Interview15:31 Holiday Gift Guide19:12 Why Do Golf Manufacturers Make So Much Offset?24:12 Maple Hill Black Friday Deals29:28 Thanksgiving Sign-Off🎯 Shop THE HILL Official MerchRep the brand and support the movement with official gear!🛒 Grab yours now: https://bit.ly/46UAoOhFollow us:https://www.facebook.com/maplehillgolf/https://www.instagram.com/maplehillgolf/https://www.tiktok.com/@maplehillgolf.comhttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UCm1PySMzGMnuiZbXVjWMlmAWebsite: https://maplehillgolf.com/
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