The Smylie Show

Smylie Kaufman is a PGA Tour winner, pro golf broadcaster, and the host of "The Smylie Show". Every week, along with his producer and co-host Charlie Hulme, Smylie provides insights and analysis on the game of golf (along with a handful of other miscellaneous items), in addition to sharing long-form conversations with Tour pros and other celebrities who love the game.

Listen in podnod RSS feed Show website

362 episodes
Updated Monday

Episodes362

Newest first

April 22 · 58 min
319: “Cashmere” Keith Mitchell On Short Game Technique, Retro Style, and His Putter Collection
Smylie Kaufman and Charlie Hulme welcome Keith Mitchell to the show for a conversation covering everything from a deep dive into all the different ways TOUR pros pitch the ball, to the beginnings of Keith’s now-iconic “Cashmere” styling patterned after 1970s Arnold Palmer. Keith delves into the way technology like TrackMan has completely changed fitting, preparation and practice - plus, the guys chat about Keith’s putter collection and affinity for fine dining. Don't forget to like, comment and subscribe for more golf insights! Follow our socials: @thesmylieshow CHAPTERS: 00:00 Intro + Zurich Classic Invite Story 01:07 Junior Golf Memories + Early Days Together 03:17 Favorite Courses + The Honors Club Stories 06:13 Bucket List Golf Trips (Shinnecock, National, Muirfield) 10:58 Short Game Philosophy + Parker McLachlin Influence 14:49 There’s No “One Way” to Chip 17:21 Best Short Game Players on Tour (Dufner, Phil, P Reed) 19:12 Shot Selection + Margin for Error Explained 23:36 What Pros Do Differently (Gym + TrackMan) 28:18 “Cashmere” Origin Story 33:12 Building the Look + Style Evolution 39:03 Putter Collection + Tinkering Habits 43:01 Putter Changes + Left-Hand Low Switch 45:45 Keith’s Favorite New Orleans Restaurants 49:08 Policy Board Work on a Changing TOUR #golf #pgatour #keithmitchell #smylieshow #golfrecap #golfhighlights
April 20 · 1 hr 18 min
318: Fitz Wins At Harbour Town + A Rollercoaster Week of LIV News
With the first major of 2026 in the books, there was no slowing down the golf news cycle - a PGA TOUR signature event, some wild reporting about the long-term existence of LIV Golf, and a potential Smylie comeback?? (Watch more on that here: https://youtu.be/jAWJYvOg1F4) Smylie Kaufman and Charlie Hulme discuss all the news of the week, starting with Matt Fitzpatrick's playoff win over Scottie Scheffler, and followed by an in-depth discussion about reports on LIV's imminent closure, why the PIF has changed its investment strategy, and what the future could look like for players in the league. Like, comment & subscribe for more golf insight ⛳️ Follow our socials: ⁨@TheSmylieShow⁩ CHAPTERS: 0:00 Intro / Smylie’s Zurich Classic Invite 3:58 Matt Fitzpatrick Wins the RBC Heritage 8:22 How Harbor Town Tests Players 12:36 Scottie Scheffler’s Form + Ludvig Åberg 16:24 Signature Event Field, Brooks as Alternate 18:31 LIV Golf: What Happened This Week 25:54 Why the PIF May Be Pulling Back 42:09 What Happens Next for LIV Players? 49:59 Can LIV Survive in a Smaller Form? 1:03:31 Was LIV Ultimately Good for Pro Golf? #golf #pgatour #rbcheritage #hiltonhead #golfhighlights #golfrecap #LIV #jonrahm #smylieshow #smyliekaufman
April 20 · 25 min
317: Is Smylie Kaufman Going To Make A Comeback At The Zurich Classic??
Spoiler alert ... he is not. But instead of imagining what it would be like if he did, Smylie Kaufman and Charlie Hulme are joined by Ryan Gerard to break down the sequence of events that led to Ryan texting Smylie a "soft invite" to play with him in the Zurich Classic, plus - what the week would have looked like if Ryan and Smylie played together. And we close with a tantalizing possibility ... could we see a Gerard/Kaufman pairing at the 2027 Zurich Classic??? CHAPTERS: 0:00 Intro + Smylie Gets Invited to Zurich Classic 0:45 How Ryan Gerard Picked Smylie 3:24 Smylie’s Reaction + Social Media Buzz 5:11 What Would the Week Look Like? 11:06 Charlie on the Bag? 14:03 Hypothetical: What If They Won? 17:10 Mixtape: What Could’ve Been 22:06 Smylie Almost Said Yes 23:02 The Deal: Zurich Classic Next Year #golf #pgatour #smylieshow #smyliekaufman #zurichclassic #golfhighlights #golfrecap
April 13 · 1 hr 10 min
316: Rory Repeats! Breaking Down a Wild Sunday at the Masters
The first major of 2026 is officially in the books, and after a long wait culminating in a 2025 win, Rory McIlroy becomes the first Masters champion to repeat since Tiger Woods. Smylie Kaufman and Charlie Hulme break down the storyline of the day, from Rory's early stumbles and surges by Cam Young, Justin Rose, and Scottie Scheffler, to the crucial shots Rory needed to hit to retake the lead and win his sixth major. Smylie and Charlie discuss Rory's place amongst the greats in the history of golf + bring in Jaxon and Brian to discuss the experience of Masters week for the entire show. Hope you enjoyed all the coverage this week - subscribe for more! CHAPTERS: 00:00 Intro 00:12 Rory McIlroy Goes Back-to-Back 05:20 Sunday Chaos Unfolds 10:40 Cameron Young Front Nine Turning Point 16:10 Justin Rose In Control Early 21:30 Rory’s Shot of the Day (Hole 12) 27:00 Scottie Scheffler Charges Into Contention 32:40 Scheffler’s Costly Mistakes (13 & 15) 38:20 Closing Stretch Drama (16–18) 44:00 Rory Survives & Wins 49:30 Collin Morikawa Breakdown 54:30 Other Standouts & Takeaways 59:30 Legacy Talk + Final Thoughts #Masters #Augusta #smylieshow #golf #smyliekaufman #pgatour #RoryMcilroy #Rory #scottiescheffler
April 12 · 24 min
315: Saturday at the Masters: Moving Day for Cam Young & Scottie Scheffler
"Moving Day" at the Masters provided a perfect setup for a thrilling Sunday at Augusta, as Rory McIlroy's six-shot lead evaporated and Cam Young charged into the co-lead. Smylie Kaufman and Charlie Hulme discuss the composition of that Rory & Cam final group, what Scottie Scheffler needs to shoot to have a winning chance after a Saturday 65, and a few other names who could come into play. Plus! The show welcomes a new gnome home, more Masters food reviews, and "Raccoon Time." Tune in tomorrow for a full recap as we crown a Masters champion! 0:00 Intro 0:24 Smylie Called It Early 👀 2:30 Masters Gnome Returns 3:25 Raccoon Time: Candy Bar Review 🍫 4:52 Amen Corner Experience 7:25 Cam Young & Scheffler Surge 8:00 Rory’s Driving Issues 9:27 Why Cam Young Has the Edge 10:27 Sunday Strategy & Birdie Chances 12:44 Course Conditions 14:22 Scheffler Back in Contention 15:17 Final Pairing Dynamics (Rory vs Cam) 16:08 Sunday Pressure Scenarios 17:39 What Score Wins? MUSIC: Elevator Bossa Nova Music Background AUTHOR: Zbrv/MusicRevolution ASSET LICENSE: #1773129832 OWNER: MUSE MEDIA, LLC. #masters #golf #golfrecap #mastersrecap #smyliekaufman #smylieshow #camyoung #rory #scottiescheffler
April 11 · 29 min
314: Friday at the Masters: Will Rory Break Tiger’s Record?
Two rounds of 2026’s first major are in the books, and Rory McIlroy is off to a record-setting start in his title defense. Smylie Kaufman and Charlie Hulme break down all that they saw Friday at Augusta, and answer some hypothetical questions - what happens if Rory wins his second Masters at a record-setting pace? What happens if he somehow loses the tournament? All that + discussing a big name who missed the cut, and what we think the course conditions at Augusta will be on the weekend. Tune in Saturday night as we track Rory and the chasing pack on moving day at the Masters! Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more golf insights! CHAPTERS: 0:00 Intro 0:30 Is It Already Over? 2:00 Rory McIlroy 6:00 Rory vs The Field 7:30 Weekend Scenarios (Blowout vs Collapse) 9:00 Course Conditions 11:00 Leaderboard + Chasing Pack 13:45 Augusta Food Rankings 16:30 Masters Candy Bar + Stories 18:15 Patron Experience at Augusta 20:30 Bryson 22:30 Fan Questions #masters #augusta #rorymcilroy #smylieshow #golfrecap #mastershighlights #mastersrecap #smyliekaufman #golfhighlights
April 10 · 33 min
313: Thursday at the Masters: Rory Leads + Augusta Looks CRISPY
As the first round of the Masters Tournament concludes, Smylie Kaufman and Charlie Hulme recap all the Thursday action from Augusta National - Rory McIlroy cruises to a co-lead in his title defense, while some big names struggle as the golf course gets firm and fast much earlier than expected. Smylie and Charlie discuss the difficulty of approaches into the 13th and 15th holes, predict conditions as the week progresses, and take questions from producer Jaxon Brown. Tune in tomorrow - as we recap the cut, and who looks positioned to win the first major of 2026! CHAPTERS: 0:57 Course conditions 4:23 Hole 13 and 15 carnage 9:50 Rory McIlroy 15:14 Sam Burns 16:58 Ludvig Åberg 18:07 Bryson DeChambeau 19:29 Jon Rahm 21:04 Audience questions 25:57 Scottie Scheffler #masters #augusta #smylieshow #smyliekaufman #scottiescheffler #rorymcilroy #golfrecap #mastersrecap #mastershighlights
April 8 · 1 hr 18 min
312: 2026 Masters Preview ⛳️ Expectations for Scottie Scheffler & Rory McIlroy + Sleeper Picks
Smylie Kaufman and Charlie Hulme are boots on the ground in Augusta for a full Masters preview episode, breaking down everything you need to know heading into the first major of the year. From course conditions and weather impact to the player profiles most likely to contend, the guys dive deep into what it takes to win at Augusta National Golf Club. With firm greens, tricky winds, and premium iron play expected to be the difference, they analyze the key contenders and build the blueprint for a Masters champion. Plus, reactions to JJ Spaun’s win, insight from players preparing on-site, and a data-driven breakdown of the names to watch this week. ⛳️ Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more golf insight! 📺 Follow our socials @thesmylieshow CHAPTERS: 0:00 Intro 2:12 JJ Spaun Wins at Valero 6:08 Masters Week Setup 9:42 Augusta Conditions 11:28 Weather Report 15:05 Wind + Strategy 18:20 Masters Winner Blueprint 21:15 Rory McIlroy 26:40 Scottie Scheffler 31:35 Bryson DeChambeau 36:50 Ludvig Åberg 41:55 Xander Schauffele 46:10 Patrick Reed 50:25 Tommy Fleetwood 54:10 Matt Fitzpatrick 58:05 Collin Morikawa 62:20 Other Contenders 67:10 Sleeper Picks 71:30 Final Picks #masters #augusta #smylieshow #scottiescheffler #rorymcilroy #golfbetting #golfpicks #pgatour
April 6 · 1 hr 42 min
311: Bones Mackay Caddies for Smylie Kaufman at Augusta National
Jim “Bones” Mackay joins Smylie Kaufman for a one-of-a-kind walk through Augusta National Golf Club — breaking down every hole like he’s on the bag at the Masters. From tee shot decisions to green complexes, Bones shares decades of insight, stories from caddying for major champions, and the subtle details that make Augusta the most strategic course in golf. This is a true hole-by-hole masterclass — how to think, where to miss, and what it actually takes to play Augusta National. CHAPTERS: 00:06:19 Hole 1: Tea Olive 00:14:00 Hole 2: Pink Dogwood 00:21:20 Hole 3: Flowering Peach 00:27:12 Hole 4: Flowering Crab Apple 00:29:15 Hole 5: Magnolia 00:34:00 Hole 6: Juniper 00:45:09 Hole 7: Pampas 00:49:00 Hole 8: Yellow Jasmine 00:54:00 Hole 9: Carolina Cherry 00:59:09 Hole 10: Camellia 01:04:30 Hole 11: White Dogwood 01:09:00 Hole 12: Golden Bell 01:14:00 Hole 13: Azalea 01:19:00 Hole 14: Chinese Fir 01:24:00 Hole 15: Firethorn 01:29:00 Hole 16: Redbud 01:33:00 Hole 17: Nandina 01:38:00 Hole 18: Holly #golf #pgatour #smylieshow #augusta #masters #bonesmackay #smyliekaufman
April 1 · 1 hr
310: Sepp Straka: Growing Up in Austria + Wedge Setup That Might Shock You 🤯
Sepp Straka joins Smylie Kaufman on The Smylie Show for a wide-ranging conversation on fatherhood, growing up between Austria and Georgia, competing alongside his twin brother Sam, and the path that took him from an under-the-radar junior to one of the best players in the world. Sepp talks about his time at Georgia, why that qualifying culture helped shape him, how he ended up with Srixon after college, and why his equipment setup immediately gave him confidence heading into Q-School. Later, Sepp gets into the real turning points in his PGA TOUR career: the early inconsistency, working with John Tillery, using TrackMan with more purpose, improving his wedge play and short game, and building a more complete process around practice. Then Charlie joins for Short-Sided to close things out with some lighter stories on food, Georgia guys, and dad life at home. ⛳️ Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more golf insight! 📺 Follow our socials @thesmylieshow Chapters 0:00 Sepp on dad life and bedtime duties 3:21 Sepp’s journey from Austria to Georgia 5:59 How Georgia helped shape his game 10:25 Representing Austria and Olympic memories 14:31 Why Sepp signed with Srixon 18:19 Q-School, pressure, and early tour life 27:18 Why his game finally took off 29:23 John Tillery, TrackMan, and better numbers 30:20 Fixing the weak spots in his short game 31:05 Wedge practice, process, and improvement 45:23 Short-Sided with Charlie #golf #pgatour #augusta #masters #seppstraka #smylieshow #smyliekaufman #golfpicks #golfbetting #valero #texasopen #golfhighlights
March 31 · 14 min
309: Roberto Castro Explains Why TGL Took a Big Step Forward
Smylie Kaufman is joined by former PGA TOUR pro and TGL analyst Roberto Castro to unpack everything from TGL’s second season. After a full year on the broadcast, Roberto shares what he learned in the booth, how the league evolved from Year 1 to Year 2, and why the level of play and team strategy took such a big leap. They also dive into Los Angeles Golf Club’s championship run, the teams that impressed and disappointed, and how TGL can help younger players grow by competing alongside proven veterans. Roberto also explains why certain players and teams seemed to improve as the season went on, what stood out behind the scenes, and what he’ll be watching heading into next season as TGL continues to expand. Follow us on socials @thesmylieshow ⛳️ Chapters 0:00 Roberto Castro joins the show 0:35 Roberto’s first season on the TGL broadcast 2:50 Biggest TGL Season 2 takeaways 4:04 Why Los Angeles won it all 5:24 What TGL revealed about players’ form 7:08 How TGL helps young players develop 8:13 Most disappointing team of the season 9:29 What should change for next season? 12:36 Roberto’s early Season 3 outlook #golf #smylieshow #TGL #pgatour #golfhighlights
March 30 · 31 min
308: Emotional Win for Gary Woodland! + Reacting to Tiger Woods Accident
Gary Woodland completes one of the most emotional wins of the season at the Texas Children’s Houston Open, and Smylie Kaufman and Charlie Hulme break down both the meaning of the moment and the golf that got it done. They dive into the harrowing neurological trauma Woodland's been dealing with privately and publicly on his seven-year journey back to the winner's circle, the ball-speed and putting numbers that stood out, and what this win means for Gary - and a number of other players inside and outside the OWGR Top 50 - as we look ahead to the Masters. Smylie and Charlie then offer a reflection on arguably the biggest news in golf this week - Tiger Woods automobile accident which involved a set of charges from the Martin County Sheriff's Department, what it means in a golf context, and the societal reaction at large to one of the game's biggest figures. Follow us on socials @thesmylieshow ⛳️ & don’t forget to like, comment, & subscribe for more golf insight ✅ CHAPTERS 0:00 Hello from the road! 1:48 Gary Woodland’s emotional Houston Open win 12:51 Masters OWGR Top-50 qualifiers 15:20 Other notes from Houston: aces for Shane Lowry and Adam Scott 17:08 Reacting to Tiger Woods accident and fallout 25:39 DP World Tour / Korn Ferry notes 27:17 Sepp Straka preview / Masters week lookahead #golf #pgatour #smylieshow #garywoodland #golfpodcast #smyliekaufman #golfhighlights #golfrecap
March 25 · 1 hr 2 min
307: Akshay Bhatia on Winning at Bay Hill & Masters prep + Dr. Bhrett McCabe on the Mental Edge in Golf
Smylie Kaufman sits down with two elite perspectives in golf: First, recent Arnold Palmer Invitational winner Akshay Bhatia joins to break down his victory at Bay Hill, his evolving game, and how confidence, putting, and mindset fueled his breakthrough. Then, sports psychologist Dr. Bhrett McCabe joins to unpack the mental side of elite performance—highlighting Cam Young’s Players Championship win, pressure, confidence, and why perfection is the biggest myth in golf. Follow us on socials @thesmylieshow ⛳️ & don’t forget to like, comment, & subscribe for more golf insight ✅ CHAPTERS: 0:00 Intro & Akshay Bhatia on Winning Bay Hill 0:48 Joe Greiner Partnership & Lefty Advantage 3:40 Cross-Handed Chipping & Short Game Feel 6:25 Leading vs Chasing on the PGA Tour 8:55 Putting Breakthrough & Routine Changes 11:10 Ball Striking DNA & Shot Shaping 13:25 Driver Options & Shot Patterns 16:05 Augusta Strategy & Preparation 19:00 Confidence from Winning & Major Outlook 21:35 Tour Life, India Trip & Season Momentum 23:40 Bhrett McCabe Interview Begins – Cam Young & Players Championship 25:10 Understanding Elite Confidence & Self-Belief 30:40 Why “Perfect Golf” is a Myth 34:20 Handling Swing Breakdowns Under Pressure 38:40 Winning Without Your Best Stuff 41:45 Ryder Cup Experience & Competitive Edge 45:15 Chris Gotterup Conversation & Development Arc 47:30 Confidence Growth & Learning to Win 50:00 Mental Toughness vs Technical Perfection 52:30 What Separates Good Players from Great Ones 55:00 Closing Thoughts on Mindset & Performance #golf #pgatour #smylieshow #akshaybhatia #golfpodcast #smyliekaufman #golflesson #camyoung
March 23 · 1 hr
306: Matt Fitzpatrick Bounces Back At Valspar + Brooks Koepka & Jordan Spieth Trending?
A week after coming up one shot short at the PLAYERS, Matt Fitzpatrick got right back to work and won the Valspar Championship. Smylie Kaufman and Charlie Hulme break down the swing work he's done with Mark Blackburn, what stood out most about his mentality after the near miss at Sawgrass, and whether his current form should have people paying closer attention heading into Augusta. They also dive into the pace-of-play controversy on Sunday, with Smylie offering perspective from inside the ropes on what actually frustrates players and how those situations can throw contenders out of rhythm. The episode also looks at the bigger trends coming out of the Florida Swing, including why so many 54-hole leaders have struggled to close this season, what happened to Sungjae Im on Sunday, and why Copperhead continues to be one of the best non-signature tests on the PGA TOUR. Smylie and Charlie also assess where Brooks Koepka and Jordan Spieth stand as the Masters approaches, including why Brooks’ recent iron play is so notable and why Spieth feels closer than his results might suggest. The show wraps with a look at the inaugural success that LIV's South Africa event was, and what it means for golf on a global stage. Plus, are Bryson DeChambeau and Jon Rahm in better form that anyone else as we look ahead to Augusta? Follow us on socials @thesmylieshow ⛳️ & don’t forget to like, comment, & subscribe for more golf insight ✅ Chapters: 0:00 Intro 3:15 Matt Fitzpatrick’s Valspar win 9:09 Can Fitzpatrick contend at Augusta? 12:53 Pace-of-play controversy on Sunday 22:00 The challenge Copperhead provides 30:23 Why it's so difficult to close a 54-hole lead 38:17 Breaking down Brooks Koepka's week 49:22 Bryson DeChambeau & Jon Rahm ... Masters favorites? #pgatour #golf #valspar #fitzpatrick #smylieshow #smyliekaufman #rorymcilroy #bryson #jonrahm #golfpodcast #golfpreview #golfchannel #masters #augusta
March 18 · 51 min
305: Jacob Bridgeman on Winning at Riviera, Tiger’s Reaction & Masters Dreams
Fresh off his first PGA Tour win at the Genesis Invitational, Jacob Bridgeman sat down with Smylie Kaufman and Charlie Hulme to break down the week that changed his career. Topics Covered • Bridgeman’s breakthrough win at Riviera • Playing Sunday with Rory McIlroy • Tiger Woods reacting to his ball-striking • Surviving pressure on the back nine • The new wave of young American PGA Tour stars • Growing up in South Carolina with Masters dreams • "Short-Sided" lightning round Jacob dives into the surreal experience of winning at Riviera, the messages that flooded his phone after the victory, and the confidence he felt holding a six-shot lead on Sunday. He shares stories from the final round playing alongside Rory McIlroy, how a mud ball nearly derailed his finish, and the incredible moment of shaking Tiger Woods’ hand after the win. The conversation also explores Bridgeman’s rise through the Korn Ferry Tour, the impact of his veteran caddie, and the growing crop of young American stars on the PGA Tour. Jacob discusses his unique ten-finger grip, the swing work that transformed his iron play, and the putting routine that has made him one of the best on tour. Plus, the episode wraps with Charlie’s lightning-round "Short-Sided" segment. Follow us on socials @thesmylieshow ⛳️ & don’t forget to like, comment, & subscribe for more golf insight ✅ CHAPTERS: 00:00 — Jacob Bridgeman joins TSS 02:46 — Riviera prep & first impressions 06:55 — Ball-striking clinic & Tiger Woods’ reaction 09:06 — Holding the lead Sunday with Rory McIlroy 20:48 — The caddie who believed in him 25:50 — Young American stars on Tour 29:45 — Augusta National & Masters dreams 33:14 — Ten-finger grip, swing changes & elite putting routine 41:18 — Short-Sided with Charlie #pgatour #golf #PLAYERS #smylieshow #smyliekaufman #rorymcilroy #JacobBridgeman #rorymcilroy #scottiescheffler #golfpodcast #golfpreview #golfchannel #ludvigaberg
March 16 · 1 hr 11 min
304: Cam Young Delivers at Sawgrass | Inside an Epic Sunday at the PLAYERS
The 2026 PLAYERS Championship delivered one of the most dramatic finishes of the season, with Cam Young emerging victorious from a group including Matt Fitzpatrick, Ludvig Åberg, Xander Schauffele, and Robert MacIntyre. Smylie Kaufman walked inside the ropes with the final group, and breaks down exactly how Young pulled it off, from a clutch birdie on 17 to one of the longest drives ever recorded on the 18th hole at Sawgrass. Smylie and Charlie Hulme dive into the duel between Cam Young and Matt Fitzpatrick, the key swing and strategy adjustments that changed the tournament, and the implications as we head towards the first major of the year at Augusta. They also examine a disappointing Sunday for Ludvig Åberg, discuss Rory McIlroy’s Masters preparation, highlight the recent resurgence in form for Brooks Koepka, and ask the big question: is Scottie Scheffler actually in a slump? Plus: Smylie ranks his own shots from his debut on Golf Channel’s Live From coverage at The PLAYERS. Follow us on socials @thesmylieshow ⛳️ & don’t forget to like, comment, & subscribe for more golf insight ✅ CHAPTERS: 00:00 Intro & Scenes from THE PLAYERS 03:05 Sawgrass Sunday conditions & best finish in golf 07:21 Cam Young’s strategy 12:21 The evolution of Cam Young’s putting & mindset 17:01 The defining moments on 17 and 18 22:44 Matt Fitzpatrick 27:05 Ludvig Åberg 31:04 Momentum, crowd energy & Sunday pressure 34:48 “Major or Not Major” 42:11 Is Scottie Scheffler actually in a slump? 48:10 Smylie’s Golf Channel Live From debut 56:31 PGA Tour competitive structure changes 1:08:15 Final thoughts #pgatour #golf #PLAYERS #smylieshow #smyliekaufman #rorymcilroy #CamYoung #CameronYoung #rorymcilroy #scottiescheffler #golfpodcast #golfpreview #golfchannel #ludvigaberg #MattFitzpatrick #Sawgrass
March 11 · 52 min
303: PLAYERS CHAMPIONSHIP PREVIEW: Rory’s Health, Scottie’s Form & Our Picks at TPC Sawgrass
Smylie Kaufman and Charlie Hulme are on-site at TPC Sawgrass to preview the 2026 PLAYERS Championship. From the course conditions and weather draw to the unique strategy required at Pete Dye’s iconic stadium course, the guys break down everything to watch this week. They discuss Rory McIlroy’s back concerns, Scottie Scheffler’s surprising iron-play dip, and the type of player who actually wins at Sawgrass, before diving into their One-and-Done picks and sleeper contenders for the week. With potential mud balls, gusty winds, and the terrifying closing stretch of 16-17-18, this year’s PLAYERS could deliver another unpredictable leaderboard. Follow us on socials @thesmylieshow ⛳️ & don’t forget to like, comment, & subscribe for more golf insight ✅ CHAPTERS 00:00 On-site at TPC Sawgrass! 01:20 First Look at the Course 03:30 The “Fifth Major” Debate 06:00 Sawgrass Course Strategy & Shot Shapes 11:50 Weather Forecast & Draw Advantage 15:10 History of THE PLAYERS at Sawgrass 21:00 Scottie Scheffler Form Check 27:00 Rory McIlroy Injury Update 31:00 One-and-Done Picks 47:00 Closing Thoughts #pgatour #golf #PLAYERS #smylieshow #smyliekaufman #rorymcilroy #akshaybhatia #scottiescheffler #golfpodcast #golfpreview #golfchannel
March 9 · 1 hr 11 min
302: Electric Finish at Bay Hill: Akshay Bhatia Earns Win No. 3
Akshay Bhatia delivered one of the most electric Sundays of the PGA Tour season at Bay Hill, draining over 144 feet of putts and storming back to win the Arnold Palmer Invitational in a playoff. Smylie Kaufman and Charlie Hulme break down how Bhatia’s short game carried him to victory on brutally firm, “crispy” greens that had the entire field on edge all week. The guys also dive into Daniel Berger’s incredible comeback, analyzing the encouraging signs after nearly two years battling injuries and setbacks. Plus, they discuss strong performances from Ludvig Åberg, Cam Young, and Collin Morikawa, what it means heading into THE PLAYERS Championship, and why Bay Hill’s setup produced one of the most entertaining tournaments of the season. And of course, things get chaotic when Judge Jaxon Brown enters the courtroom to rule on the Rory McIlroy withdrawal in the show’s One-and-Done contest. Follow us on socials @thesmylieshow ⛳️ & don’t forget to like, comment, & subscribe for more golf insight ✅ CHAPTERS: 0:00 – Bay Hill delivers 2:06 – Golf season is officially back 3:08 – Bay Hill’s greens 4:14 – Smylie’s “Snap, Crackle, Pop” crispy greens rankings 6:47 – Major championship courses with the craziest greens 10:15 – Akshay Bhatia 21:04 – The clutch putts that saved Bhatia’s round 23:40 – Daniel Berger 29:13 – Bay Hill’s intimidating visuals and pressure moments 31:10 – Scottie Scheffler 34:12 – Cam Young 37:04 – Ludvig Åberg 38:12 – Collin Morikawa 38:48 – The Rory McIlroy One-and-Done controversy 47:36 – Ryder Cup 49:00 – Luke Donald’s leadership and Europe’s continuity 50:30 – Could Tiger Woods captain the U.S.? 55:30 - Jon Rahm 1:10:00 – Closing thoughts and wrap-up #pgatour #golfpodcast #smylieshow #smyliekaufman #golfhighlights
March 4 · 1 hr 16 min
301: Justin Thomas Returns! Junior Golf Years with Jordan Spieth + Tiger Woods Relationship
Justin Thomas returns to The Smylie Show (a record fourth time!) for a candid conversation on everything from fatherhood to his back surgery & rehab. JT explains how taking the long view on recovery changed his mindset — and how becoming a dad reshaped the way he practices and competes. He also retraces the beginnings of his friendly "rivalry" with Jordan Spieth - including their dinner before he won his first major at Quail Hollow, the legendary SB2K16 trip, and more untold stories. Plus, JT discusses his relationship with Tiger Woods, and shares stories about learning from and competing alongside the 🐐 In this episode: • Back surgery & recovery • Fatherhood perspective • Jordan Spieth rivalry • First major breakthrough • George W. Bush Walker Cup stories • Tiger Woods mentorship • "Short-Sided" with Charlie Follow us on socials @thesmylieshow ⛳️ & don’t forget to like, comment, & subscribe for more golf insight ✅ 00:00 – JT Returns: Surgery & Florida Swing 01:32 – Rehab Timeline & Long-Term Plan 06:28 – Winning as a Dad (Hilton Head) 11:42 – First Meeting with Jordan Spieth 13:22 – Junior Rivalry 15:28 – Wyndham at 16 Years Old 16:40 – Spieth’s “Did You Shoot 65?” Call 18:30 – Class of 2011 Depth & Late Bloomers 21:38 – Choosing Alabama 23:49 – Walker Cup at National Golf Links of America 26:30 – George W. Bush Story 29:35 – Early Times on Tour 31:46 – “We’re Better When the Other One Plays Well” 32:19 – Dinner Before Winning First Major 34:36 – Advice Before Sunday at Quail Hollow 40:16 – SB2K16 Origin Story 42:52 – From Spring Break to Family Trips 43:54 – Becoming Close with Tiger Woods 54:56 – Post-Win Moment 55:25 – Tiger as Ryder Cup Captain 56:27 – Mentorship & Charlie Woods 66:00 – Short-Sided with Charlie Hulme #pgatour #golfpodcast #smylieshow #smyliekaufman #golfhighlights #golfrecap #golfpodcast #justinthomas #rickiefowler #jordanspieth #tigerwoods
March 2 · 1 hr 13 min
300: Chaos at the Cognizant: The Bear Trap Delivers + Gil Hanse on Restoring Seminole
Smylie and Charlie recap a wild Sunday at PGA National where the Bear Trap once again decided the Cognizant Classic. After Shane Lowry appeared in total control — birdieing 9, eagling 10, and building a three-shot lead — everything unraveled at the 16th tee. The guys break down the wind setup, hole locations, and the pivotal swings that flipped the tournament in minutes. They dive into Nico’s composure, his no-bogey weekend, and what this win says about his resilience after a rocky rookie season. Plus: Shane Lowry’s growing 54-hole storyline, Brooks Koepka’s encouraging signs with the putter, Max Homa’s progress, the state of PGA National on the schedule, Bay Hill projections, and behind-the-scenes stories from a full week in South Florida. Additionally, Gil Hanse joins the show! Seminole Golf Club is often regarded as one of Donald Ross’s greatest works, but due to environmental factors and architectural modifications, the course was in need of some restorative work to ensure its future. Gil joins to discuss his two-year process in Juno Beach, rediscovering Ross’s original green shapes, and why he's thoroughly enjoyed working alongside Seminole Superintendent Nelson Caron. Follow us on socials @thesmylieshow ⛳️ & don’t forget to like, comment, & subscribe for more golf insight ✅ CHAPTERS: 0:00 – On-Site at PGA National 1:30 – Shane Lowry 4:15 – The 16th Tee Shot: What Happened? 8:10 – Nico’s 17th Hole Birdie & Clutch Moment 12:30 – Lowry’s Closing Struggles & 54-Hole Trend 16:00 – Nico’s Resilience & Rookie Season Perspective 20:00 – Brooks Koepka: Putter Adjustment & Players Outlook 23:40 – Max Homa’s Progress Report 26:30 – Thursday Chaos: Gerard, David Ford & Bear Trap Carnage 29:00 – Should PGA National Play Harder? 32:00 – Schedule Debate: Where Does This Event Fit? 35:00 – Bay Hill Projections (Next 10 / Swing 5 Discussion) 37:00 – USGA Venue Announcements (Future Opens & Walker Cups) 39:00 – South Florida Week Recap (Old Palm & Practice Stories) 43:20 – Justin Thomas Episode Tease 46:00 – Jacob Bridgeman Conversation Preview 47:00 — Gil Hanse joins TSS: Restoring Seminole 01:06:40 — Final Thoughts #pgatour #golfpodcast #smylieshow #smyliekaufman #golfhighlights #golfrecap #golfpodcast #cognizant #shanelowry #nicoechavarria #seminole #gilhanse

The Smylie Show

319: “Cashmere” Keith Mitchell On Short Game Technique, Retro Style, and His Putter Collection

318: Fitz Wins At Harbour Town + A Rollercoaster Week of LIV News

317: Is Smylie Kaufman Going To Make A Comeback At The Zurich Classic??

316: Rory Repeats! Breaking Down a Wild Sunday at the Masters

315: Saturday at the Masters: Moving Day for Cam Young & Scottie Scheffler

314: Friday at the Masters: Will Rory Break Tiger’s Record?

313: Thursday at the Masters: Rory Leads + Augusta Looks CRISPY

312: 2026 Masters Preview ⛳️ Expectations for Scottie Scheffler & Rory McIlroy + Sleeper Picks

311: Bones Mackay Caddies for Smylie Kaufman at Augusta National

310: Sepp Straka: Growing Up in Austria + Wedge Setup That Might Shock You 🤯

309: Roberto Castro Explains Why TGL Took a Big Step Forward

308: Emotional Win for Gary Woodland! + Reacting to Tiger Woods Accident

307: Akshay Bhatia on Winning at Bay Hill & Masters prep + Dr. Bhrett McCabe on the Mental Edge in Golf

306: Matt Fitzpatrick Bounces Back At Valspar + Brooks Koepka & Jordan Spieth Trending?

305: Jacob Bridgeman on Winning at Riviera, Tiger’s Reaction & Masters Dreams

304: Cam Young Delivers at Sawgrass | Inside an Epic Sunday at the PLAYERS

303: PLAYERS CHAMPIONSHIP PREVIEW: Rory’s Health, Scottie’s Form & Our Picks at TPC Sawgrass

302: Electric Finish at Bay Hill: Akshay Bhatia Earns Win No. 3

301: Justin Thomas Returns! Junior Golf Years with Jordan Spieth + Tiger Woods Relationship

300: Chaos at the Cognizant: The Bear Trap Delivers + Gil Hanse on Restoring Seminole