In this episode of Linked By Golf, host Ross McGuire chats with Aaron Stewart, the creative mind behind ASSL Golf on YouTube and TikTok.
Aaron reveals how a lockdown boredom experiment turned into one of the most entertaining golf channels online — proving that golf content can be hilarious, relatable, and far from traditional.
Aaron shares the full story of starting ASSL Golf with friend Scott Lorimar, from chipping ping-pong balls into pans during COVID to filming laugh-filled rounds on Scottish fairways. He opens up about the challenges of shooting golf videos, the trial-and-error of content creation, and how they built a loyal golf audience without sticking to the standard “instructional” format.
We cover:
How to start a golf YouTube channel (even with no experience)
The early days of golf TikTok and why the timing mattered
Why Lossiemouth’s Moray Golf Club is one of Scotland’s hidden gems
The role of humour in growing a golf audience
Behind-the-scenes struggles of filming golf trick shots
Building a golf brand that stays authentic and fun
Whether you’re a golfer looking for entertainment, a fan of golf YouTubers, or curious about creating sports content, this episode is packed with insights and laughs from one of Scotland’s most creative golf personalities.
Follow Aaron & ASSL Golf
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🎙 Linked By Golf on all major podcast platforms
📸 Instagram: @linkedbygolf2024
In this episode of Linked By Golf, we head to the Ayrshire coast to explore one of Scotland’s great courses — Kilmarnock Barassie Golf Club.
Our guest is David Addison, General Manager of the club and a passionate steward of its history and future.
David walks us through Barassie’s deep roots in Scottish golf, its transformation into a championship venue, and the incredible amateur talent it has produced over the years — including multiple Walker Cup players.
We also touch on what makes Barassie such a special golfing experience today, from its testing links layout to its vibrant club culture.
Whether you’re a student of golf history or just love hearing about courses with soul, this is a conversation you won’t want to miss.
👤 Guest:
David Addison
General Manager, Kilmarnock Barassie Golf Club
📍 Topics Covered:
The founding and evolution of Kilmarnock Barassie
Barassie’s role in Scottish amateur golf
Stories behind its Walker Cup alumni
What sets the course apart today
The future of the club and its role in modern golf
🛍️ Sponsor:
This episode is brought to you by TRUE Linkswear UK.
Check out the latest range at truelinkswear.uk and support the brands that support the pod.
In this episode of Linked By Golf, host Ross McGuire is joined by Chris Bell, the Director of Membership at The National KC, a world-class golf course designed by the legendary Tom Watson.
Before stepping into the world of golf, Chris represented Scotland in badminton—a testament to his competitive spirit and athleticism. He shares how he eventually made the switch to golf after discovering an old Dunlop 9-iron in his dad’s shed, and how that moment sparked a lifelong journey that’s led him to one of the most exciting roles in American golf today.
Ross and Chris dive into what makes The National KC so unique, the importance of creating community within a golf club, and the unforgettable day Chris met and played with Tom Watson himself.
Instagram: @chrisbellgolf
The National KC: @thenationalkc
Check out Chris’s top post—a proud photo with Tom Watson.
Instagram: @linkedbygolf2024
Host: Ross McGuire
In this week’s episode of Linked By Golf, Ross McGuire is joined by Fraser McLaughlan, a former golf fanatic turned Dubai-based personal trainer.
Fraser opens up about his unexpected career pivot, what golf taught him about discipline and focus, and how swapping the course for the gym has reshaped his life.
They dive into Fraser’s early passion for golf, the transition out of the sport, and how he’s found new purpose in helping others transform their bodies and mindsets — all while still carrying the spirit of the game with him.
What You’ll Hear in This Episode:
Fraser’s journey from junior golf to fitness
The surprising story behind leaving the sport
Mental discipline: on the course vs. in the gym
How Dubai became home — and a launchpad for a new career
Reflections on identity, growth, and staying linked to golf
Connect with Us:
🔗 Follow the podcast on Instagram: @linkedbygolf2024
💪 Follow Fraser on Instagram: @fm_physiques
Big thanks to our partners for supporting this episode:
👟 TRUE Linkswear
🧢 Crun Golf
⛳ Lomond Golf Tours
Linked by Golf brings you a timely and revealing conversation with Oliver Wilson — Ryder Cup player, European Tour winner, and one of golf’s most thoughtful voices.
Ross McGuire sits down with Oli to explore the real grind of professional golf and the deeper mindset behind performance at the highest level:
🔹 An unforgettable Augusta National bunker story
🔹 Life on the Challenge Tour — and why it’s not all sunshine and leaderboard glory
🔹 Reflections on the Open's unique test and how the right spark can change everything plus we discuss Ollie's role with Radio 5 Live alongside Iain Carter
🔹 Honest talk about motivation, burnout, and what keeps the dream alive
This episode drops right as the world tunes in to Royal Portrush — where Xander Schauffele defends his 2024 title, and stars like Rory McIlroy, Scottie Scheffler, Tommy Fleetwood, Matt Fitzpatrick, and Bob MacIntyre look to etch their name into history.
Whether you're a links golf junkie or following The Open from home, this episode offers a unique lens into the life and mind of a top-tier player still chasing his next big moment.
🔗 Links & Mentions:
Sponsored by Lomond Golf Tours & Crun Golf
With special thanks to TRUELinkswear.uk and Oli Wilson
📲 Don’t forget to:
Subscribe to Linked by Golf on your favourite podcast app
Leave a review if you enjoyed the chat
Share this with anyone tuning into The Open
In this episode, Ross sits down with Zander Culverwell—PGA professional and former winner of the Scottish Amateur and Lothians Amateur Championships—as he prepares for the 2025 Genesis Scottish Open.
They dive into:
Life inside Renaissance and preparing a venue for a world-class field
What it takes to compete at the elite amateur and professional levels
Zander’s coaching philosophy and mentoring the next generation
The evolving landscape of competitive golf in Scotland
🔗 Follow Zander Culverwell
Instagram: @zanderculverwell
Twitter/X: @zanderculverwell
📍 Learn more about the Genesis Scottish Open
Instagram: @genesis_scottish_open
🎯 Supported by
🌍 Lomond Golf Tours – Bespoke golf travel in Scotland, www.lomondgolftours.com
⛳ Crun Golf – Performance golf apparel designed for the modern player - www.crunsports.com
💬 Enjoyed the episode?
Please share, rate, and review—it really helps spread the word!
📲 Stay connected with Linked by Golf for more stories from the people shaping the game.
Instagram: @linkedbygolf2024
In this episode of Linked by Golf, Ross McGuire is joined by David Inglis, head coach of the Northwestern University men's golf team and a key figure in the development of elite amateur talent in the U.S.
Matt Fitzpatrick and Luke Donald both started their professional journey at Northwestern.
From his journey through college and professional golf to mentoring some of the top players in the amateur and college ranks, David shares insights on coaching philosophy, recruiting at the highest level, and the mental side of player development.
⛳ Topics include:
His path from Scotland to collegiate coaching
Building a winning team culture at Northwestern
What top college coaches look for in recruits
How to prepare players for life beyond college golf
📱 Follow Northwestern Men's Golf team - @numensgolf
🎧 Follow the podcast on Instagram: @linkedbygolf2024
🙏 Huge thanks to our partners:
Lomond Golf Tours - www.lomondgolftour.com
Crun Golf - www.crunsports.com
Welcome back to Linked by Golf.
In this solo episode, I reflect on my personal journey through the game—both on and off the course. From managing emotions and expectations to making lifelong connections through golf, this is a look behind the mic at what fuels the passion behind the podcast.
I share stories about:
Learning to handle emotion while playing
Some unforgettable experiences, including Royal Dornoch and Wentworth
Why podcasting, just like golf, has opened doors I never expected
If you’ve ever had a round that taught you more than the scoreboard showed—or you’ve made a golf memory that’ll last a lifetime—you’ll feel right at home with this one.
Mental approach and emotional control on the course
Personal growth through the game
The community and stories built through Linked by Golf
Instagram: @linkedbygolf2024
Twitter / X: @linkedbygolf24
Email: linkedbygolf@yahoo.com
Support the show by sharing it with friends, tagging us online, or leaving a review wherever you listen.
🎧 Don’t forget to check out our past episodes — over 40 stories from golfers across all levels of the game. Thanks for listening and supporting the journey.
In this episode of Linked by Golf, Ross McGuire sits down with seasoned amateur golfer Kenny Gallacher—a competitor who knows what it takes to go the distance, both mentally and physically.
From grinding through five-round weeks to qualifying for the Senior British Open, Kenny shares his insights on managing energy, preparing for high-stakes tournaments, and keeping perspective in the game he loves.
We dive into:
Kenny's journey to the Senior British Open
The physical and mental demands of elite amateur golf
Why energy conservation is just as important as swing mechanics
What younger players can learn from veteran competitors
Balancing passion, patience, and performance
This is an episode packed with wisdom, laughs, and a real behind-the-scenes look at life on the amateur circuit.
Follow Kenny's journey through the amateur ranks and beyond.
Instagram: @linkedbygolf2024
Twitter/X: @linkedbygolf
YouTube: Linked by Golf
👉 Don’t forget to follow, review and share the show—it helps us keep bringing you more stories from the game we all love.
In this episode of Linked by Golf, host Ross McGuire sits down with David Scott, General Manager of Dumbarnie Links, to explore the meteoric rise of this modern links course on Scotland’s Fife coast.
Since its opening in 2020, Dumbarnie has garnered significant acclaim, including five major golf industry awards in 2024 alone:
Best Golf Experience at the 2024 Scotland SME Awards
Global Golf Course accolade at the Luxury Travel Awards
Best Golf Course in Western Europe by the International Association of Golf Tour Operators
Best Clubhouse in Scotland at the 2024 Scottish Golf Tourism Awards
Top Emerging Golf Course in the UK, presented by Sky Sports' Nick Dougherty
David shares insights into the design philosophy of Dumbarnie Links, the dedication required to excel in the golf industry, and the course's commitment to providing an unparalleled golfing experience.
He also discusses his personal journey, including his upcoming role as Captain of the PGA and as only the sixth Honorary Professional of the R and A.
Location: Upper Largo, Fife, Scotland
Established: 2020
Designer: Clive Clark, former Ryder Cup player
Features: 18-hole links course with panoramic views over the Firth of Forth, multiple elevated tees, and a mix of risk-reward holes
Notable Events: Hosted the 2021 Women's Scottish Open
Website: dumbarnielinks.com
Instagram: @dumbarniegolflinks
Facebook: @dumbarnielinks
Ross McGuire is the creator and host of Linked by Golf, a podcast dedicated to sharing compelling stories from the world of golf. Through in-depth interviews, Ross delves into the experiences and insights that shape the game.
Instagram: @linkedbygolf2024
X (formerly Twitter): @linkedbygolf24
This episode is brought to you by:
Lomond Golf Tours - https://lomondgolftours.com/
Crun Golf - https://crunsports.com/
Their support helps us bring these stories to life.
Description:
In this episode of Linked by Golf, Ross McGuire sits down with Scott Dixon, Head Professional at Dalmahoy Golf & Country Club.
From battling the yips as a player to becoming one of Scotland’s most forward-thinking coaches, Scott shares his journey in the game and why he believes most golfers never truly understand why they hit a good or bad shot.
We dive into:
Scott’s transition from player to coach
Why traditional coaching models often fall short
The importance of self-awareness and feedback in your skill development
How to make learning more impactful
Whether you're a beginner or a lifelong golfer, this episode is packed with insights to help you think differently about how you learn and improve.
🔗 Connect with Scott:
📸 Instagram: @scottdixongolf
🌐 Website: scottdixongolf.com
🌐 Find out more about the podcast:
📸 Instagram: @linkedbygolf2024
💻 Website: linkedbygolf.uk
In this episode of Linked by Golf, host Ross McGuire chats with David Mullins, GM for Europe at Golf.ai—a platform using artificial intelligence to revolutionize how we experience golf.
David unpacks how Golf.ai helps golfers improve their game in real-time—whether it’s club selection, live scoring updates, or quick access to tournament data. They also discuss the platform’s broader mission: using tech to make golf more accessible, modern, and exciting, especially for the next generation of players.
Whether you're watching the Masters or hitting your local course, this is a must-listen for anyone curious about where golf meets innovation.
Golf.ai Website: golf.ai
Golf.ai Instagram: @golf.ai_
Golf.ai LinkedIn: Golf.ai on LinkedIn
Linked by Golf Website: linkedbygolf.uk
Linked by Golf Instagram: @linkedbygolf2024
Linked by Golf Twitter/X: @linkedbygolf
Lomond Golf Tours – Premium golf experiences across Scotland and beyond.
Learn more at lomondgolftours.com
🔗 Links & Resources:🙌 Thanks to our sponsor:
In this episode of Linked by Golf, Ross chats with seasoned Scotland international and current national team captain Matt Clark, a player with 10 consecutive appearances in the Home Internationals.
From humble beginnings smashing windows with footballs to representing his country at the highest amateur level, Matt’s story is a brilliant example of what passion, grit, and community can do for a young golfer.
Matt reflects on discovering golf at age 14 thanks to a helpful neighbour and a ban from backyard football. He shares how local courses and strong junior programs shaped his early development, leading to a rapid rise from a 22 handicap to scratch within three years.
Now one of the most respected figures in Scottish amateur golf, Matt talks about what it meant to share a record with Craig Watson and how he's looked up to legends like Charlie Green.
He also recounts the experience of competing alongside and against future stars of the game—players like Rory McIlroy, Shane Lowry, Tommy Fleetwood, and Tyrrell Hatton—during the Home Internationals and elite amateur events. These matchups provided not just great stories, but deep insights into what makes top-tier players different—and how close that level really is.
As Scotland captain, Matt’s focus has turned to mentorship, helping the next generation of players navigate the same path he once walked.
This episode is filled with heartfelt stories, laughs, and a strong sense of the values that make amateur golf—and team golf—so special.
Linked By Golf
Twitter/Instagram: @linkedbygolf2024
Website: linkedbygolf.uk
Matt Clark
Instagram: @matthewclark71181
Scottish Golf Team Captain
🎧 Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts.
🔗 Like, follow and leave a review—it helps us share more stories from the heart of the game.
In this episode, Ross sits down with rising golf talent Tom Spreadborough, who has just secured his full card for the Sunshine Tour in South Africa.
Tom shares the story of his journey from picking up a club at age 12 at Farnham Golf Club to competing at county level, joining the England regional squad, and ultimately turning professional.
We dive into:
Tom’s early days in golf and coaching under Luke at Farnham
His progression through the junior ranks and standout amateur wins
Training at the Golf College under respected coach Dennis Pugh
Transitioning to pro life and the path to qualifying for the Sunshine Tour
What’s next for him on the international stage
If you're a young golfer, fan of the sport, or just love hearing how persistence and passion fuel success—this one's for you.
📲 Follow Tom Spreadborough:
Instagram: @tomspreadboroughgolf
🏌️♂️ More on the Sunshine Tour:
Find out more about events, standings, and Tom’s upcoming schedule at www.sunshinetour.com
This episode is brought to you with support from Lomond Golf Tours — experts in creating unforgettable Scottish golf experiences.
⛳ lomondgolftours.com
Please consider:
✅ Sharing it with a fellow golfer
✅ Subscribing on your favourite podcast platform
✅ Leaving a quick review to help us grow
In this special 15-minute episode, we sit down with Neil Hampton, General Manager of the legendary Royal Dornoch Golf Club, to unpack the visionary growth formula that’s reshaping one of Scotland’s most historic clubs. Under Neil’s forward-thinking leadership, Dornoch is thriving—not just preserving tradition, but innovating for a bold future in global golf.
We discuss:
The long-term strategy behind Royal Dornoch’s success
How Neil balances heritage with innovation
Why Dornoch is becoming a global benchmark for club excellence
The community, member, and visitor-focused approach that’s fuelling growth
No need to talk about the now-infamous FOXY thread on X (formerly Twitter), sparked by the No Laying Up podcast, and those oversized FOXY hats that stirred up a storm. We zoom out from that because the real story at Royal Dornoch is far more meaningful than social media squabbles. This episode goes deeper than the threads and trending memes—this is about real leadership, real legacy, and a real plan for the future of golf.
#RoyalDornoch #GolfLeadership #FOXYhat #NoLayingUp #GolfClubGrowth #ScottishGolf #GolfPodcast #TrendingGolf
In this engaging episode, Ross McGuire chats with renownedgolf coach Hugh Marr about the evolving world of coaching, continuous learning, and the importance of staying connected to the game as a player.
Hugh has been coach to Beef Johnson. Scott Jamieson and Thorbjorn Olesen and many more tour players.
Hugh reflects on his transition from tour life to building a leading coach education platform, The Coaching Alliance, and discusses the challenges of balancing coaching with personal playtime. He emphasizes the responsibilitycoaches have to improve themselves alongside their students and shares insights on how respectful disagreement with peers can drive innovation in golfcoaching. The episode wraps with a thoughtful message: the best coaches are those who remain lifelong learners.
🔗 Find Hugh on Instagram:@hughmarrcoaching
🌐More on his work: thecoachalliance.co
In this episode of Linked by Golf, Ross McGuire is joined by Scottish golfing legend Alastair Forsyth. A two-time European Tour winner, Alastair opens up about his time on tour, his move into coaching, and what Scottish golf needs to thrive.
We cover:
Life on tour and being drawn in front of Tiger Woods at the Open
A brilliant behind-the-scenes story about meeting Seve Ballesteros—including the unforgettable moment Seve took over the practice ground and left a lasting impression on a young Alastair
Equipment and distance debates in today’s game
How clubs can grow the game and keep membership strong
His dream fourball (Scotland vs. USA, anyone?)
His work now as a coach at Mearns Castle Golf Academy
Whether you’re a keen golfer or just love hearing tour tales, this one’s packed with insights and character.
Alastair is now based at Mearns Castle Golf Academy, offering coaching for players of all levels.
To book a session or find out more:
🔗 www.mcgolfacademy.co.uk
📞 Call: 0141 644 8200
📍 Mearns Castle Golf Academy, Waterfoot Rd, Newton Mearns, Glasgow
This episode is brought to you by Lomond Golf Tours — experts in creating unforgettable Scottish golf experiences.
⛳ lomondgolftours.com
Please consider:
✅ Sharing it with a fellow golfer
✅ Subscribing on your favourite podcast platform
✅ Leaving a quick review to help us grow
In this engaging episode of Linked by Golf, Ross McGuire sits down with seasoned PGA professional David Orr for a wide-ranging conversation about the state of golf in Scotland, the evolution of the game post-COVID, and his ongoing journey in the sport. David shares insights on membership trends, rising costs, and the crucial role of community and club culture at Whitecraigs Golf Club.
The discussion also delves into Scotland’s role in developing top-level talent, the importance of warm-weather and indoor training facilities, and how the country can continue nurturing elite players. David offers valuable advice for those looking to enter the golf industry—from gaining a PGA qualification to exploring diverse career paths in management, retail, and tourism.
He reflects on his own playing aspirations, including recent attempts at senior competition and the challenges of staying sharp with age and injury. With his trademark honesty and passion, David talks about why club pros should continue to lead by example as skilled players and mentors.
Whether you're in the industry, a fan of Scottish golf, or simply love the game, this episode is filled with authentic perspectives and practical advice from a true professional.
📍 Highlights Include:
Post-pandemic golf trends in Scotland
Strategies to support rising talent
The value of PGA qualification and diverse golf careers
David’s personal experience with senior competition and injury
Vision for Whitecraigs and member engagement
Advice for staying relevant and inspired in the golf industry
📩 Interested in lessons or advice from David? Reach him via Whitecraigs Golf Club, Southside Glasgow, or through their website.
PODCAST WEBSITE:
www.linkedbygolf.uk
Linked by Golf is the podcast that celebrates the people, passion, and stories behind the game we all love.
Hosted by Ross McGuire, the show tees off with Scottish senior amateur golf standout Ronnie Clark, whose multiple championship wins across Europe and decades of dedication to the game offer wisdom, insight, and some unforgettable tales from the fairways.
Whether you're a lifelong golfer or just discovering the sport, Linked by Golf brings you closer to the moments and mindsets that define golf at every level.
📱 Follow us on social:
Instagram: @linkedbygolf2024
Twitter/X: @linkedbygolf
🎧 Listen & Subscribe:
YouTube: Linked by Golf
Apple Podcasts: Linked by Golf on Apple
Spotify: Linked by Golf on Spotify
Join us each week—and stay Linked by Golf.
In this episode of Linked By Golf, Ross is joined by Mike Carroll — the man behind Fit for Golf and a leading expert on how strength, speed, and mobility training can transform your golf game.
Mike shares insights into why doing something is always better than doing nothing when it comes to your fitness, and why even small, consistent efforts can have a huge impact on your performance on the course.
We dive into the evolution of golf fitness, the myths Mike wishes golfers would leave behind, and practical advice for players of all levels who want to move better, hit further, and feel stronger.
If you're ready to start training smarter — not harder — this episode is for you.
Follow Mike Carroll:
Instagram: @fit_for_golf
Twitter/X: @Fit_For_Golf
Website: fitforgolf.blog
Follow Linked By Golf:
Instagram: @linkedbygolf2024
Website: linkedbygolf.com
Make sure to hit Follow so you never miss an episode — and if you’re enjoying the show, a rating or quick review would mean the world!
