Your Golf Podcast by NCG

National Club Golfer

Tom Irwin and Jack Backhouse are your host and regular special guest on the Your Golf Podcast by NCG, a weekly deep dive into the biggest gear and instruction topics.

Jack is a PGA professional and Tom is a life long obsessive, together they bring insight into big equipment and instruction trends and offer meaningful, actionable insight to help Your Golf.

Whether you’re a club golfer trying to break 80, a beginner who just wants to hit it straighter, or someone chasing a new personal best, Tom and Jack bring decades of coaching, playing, and club-fitting experience to every episode.

They’ll help you understand not just what to work on, but how to make real progress.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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20 episodes
Updated Wednesday

Episodes20

Newest first

Wednesday · 49 min
What Really Happens Behind the Scenes at The Open?
Nicola Slater is back from a busy week at The Open Championship, and she's giving Jack Backhouse the full behind-the-scenes tour. From media days, tour trucks and brand meetings to watching Rory McIlroy warm up, meeting celebrities, and discovering Wyndham Clark's now-famous coat hanger practice routine, there's plenty to unpack. Jack delivers what might be his most controversial opinion yet, this time involving Tommy Fleetwood. The pair also discuss the latest equipment launches, life inside the media centre, the atmosphere around Royal Birkdale, and what it's really like covering golf's biggest championship away from the TV cameras. It's an episode packed with behind-the-scenes insight, equipment chat, laughs, and a debate that's bound to split opinion. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
July 22 · 37 min
Is This the Future of Putting?
What if everything you've been told about putters is wrong? This week, Nicola Slater is joined by Dan Landman, founder of Spoiler Golf, to discuss one of the most talked-about innovations in golf equipment. Inspired by the way a wedge rolls the ball, Spoiler's unique leading-edge technology challenges traditional putter design in pursuit of a purer, more consistent roll. Dan explains how a lockdown experiment turned into a growing golf brand, the science behind the design, why major manufacturers haven't followed suit, and whether golfers are finally ready to embrace something completely different. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
July 15 · 44 min
How to play links golf
Ahead of The Open at Royal Birkdale, we're diving into everything you need to know about playing links golf. From controlling your ball flight in the wind to avoiding pot bunkers, mastering bump-and-runs, and choosing the right clubs, we explain the biggest differences between links and parkland golf. We also discuss why the world's best players change their equipment for links golf, how creativity becomes more important than power, and what club golfers can learn from watching The Open at Royal Birkdale. Whether you're heading to the coast this summer or just want to understand links golf better, these tips will help you score lower. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
July 8 · 52 min
Does the Roll Back Actually Matter?
The golf ball rollback has officially been delayed but should it happen at all? In this episode of the Your Golf Podcast, we take a deep dive into one of the biggest debates in modern golf. We discuss why the proposed rollback has been pushed back, hear the views of DP World Tour pro Brandon Robinson Thompson, and ask whether the governing bodies are focusing on the right solution. Is distance really making golf courses obsolete? Would tougher course setups be more effective than changing the golf ball? And has modern equipment reduced the skill needed to compete at the highest level? We also round off the episode by tackling another hot topic in the game: pace of play. Is slow play getting worse, who's responsible, and what can be done to speed up the game for professionals and amateurs alike? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
July 1 · 40 min
How to Play Better Golf in a Heatwave
The temperatures are soaring but should your scores be? Jack Backhouse and Nicola Slater discuss how extreme heat changes the way golf is played, from longer drives and firmer fairways to club selection, course management and staying hydrated. Drawing on Nicola's experience competing in sweltering conditions, they explain why your normal yardages don't apply, how to adapt your strategy and the mistakes golfers make when the mercury rises. If you're teeing it up during a heatwave, this episode could save you plenty of shots. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
June 3 · 30 min
The Mini Driver Debate: Who Is It Really For?
Mini drivers are everywhere right now, but do most golfers actually need one? In this episode, Jack Backhouse and equipment expert Nicola Slater take a deep dive into one of golf’s biggest equipment trends. They discuss where mini drivers fit between a driver and a fairway wood, who stands to benefit from using one, and whether they genuinely offer more control off the tee. The pair explore why so many tour players are putting mini drivers in play, share their own experiences testing models from TaylorMade, Titleist and Callaway, and examine the data behind fairway-finder alternatives off the tee. They also debate whether mini drivers are simply modern versions of the compact drivers of old, and why some golfers swear by them while others see no place for one in the bag. Plus, a discussion on club fitting, the shaft-versus-head debate, and Nicola’s visit to The Belfry for a fitting experience with Fujikura. Whether you're struggling with your driver, considering a bag overhaul, or just curious about the latest equipment craze, this episode will help you decide if a mini driver deserves a spot in your setup. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
May 27 · 50 min
Why Every Golfer Should Get Fit
Do golfers underestimate the power of getting fitted? In this episode of NCG Your Golf Podcast, Jack Backhouse and Nicola Slater dive into the world of golf fitting after visits to two standout experiences: The Kingdom at The Grove and Under Armour’s shoe optimisation studio at Stoke Park. From premium club fitting and surprising driver gains to biomechanics, custom insoles and whether golf shoes could be the next big performance upgrade, they explore how small changes can unlock results without changing your swing. Plus: should golfers stop buying clubs off the shelf altogether? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
May 20 · 53 min
The Fastest Way to Improve Your Golf
Want to improve your golf faster? In this episode of the NCG Your Golf Podcast, Jack Backhouse and Nicola Slater explore one of the biggest misconceptions in golf improvement. Lessons alone are not the answer. They discuss how to get more value from coaching, the common mistakes golfers make during lessons, and why chasing the “perfect swing” can actually hold you back. From turning up with a clear goal to understanding realistic timelines for improvement, this episode is packed with practical advice for golfers who genuinely want to lower their scores. Inside this episode: • How to get more from every golf lesson • Why hitting more balls does not always mean better results • The biggest mistake golfers make after coaching sessions • Why quick fixes rarely lead to lasting improvement • How to practise with more purpose • Using stats and feedback to improve faster • Why your swing does not need to look perfect to play great If you are serious about improving and want a smarter approach to practice, this episode will help you make better progress and get more out of your time on the range and the course. 🎧 Subscribe to NCG Your Golf and never miss an episode. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
May 13 · 39 min
Do Women’s Golf Clubs Even Exist?
In this episode of the NCG Your Golf Podcast, host Jack Backhouse, professional golfer Nicola Slater and producer Chris Vodden tackle one of golf’s most debated equipment topics: should there even be such a thing as “women’s golf clubs”? Fresh from a Titleist fitting experience, Nicola explains why she believes golf equipment should be fitted to the player, not labelled by gender. The team dives into package sets, shaft flex, club length, swing speed, custom fitting, and why some brands are moving away from “men’s” and “women’s” categories altogether. They also discuss: Why package sets work for some golfers but not all The hidden problem with “ladies flex” shafts Why taller or athletic women are often badly fitted Whether golf marketing is still stuck in the past The surprising truth about “women’s” golf balls Why custom fitting matters more than labels Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
April 22 · 39 min
What Rory’s Masters Win Teaches Every Golfer
In this episode of Your Golf Podcast by NCG, host PGA Professional Jack Backhouse is once again joined by professional golfer Nicola Slater to break down Rory McIlroy’s incredible Masters victory in 2026 and more importantly, what it actually means for your game. From course management under pressure to dialing in your mental approach on the biggest stages, Jack and Nicola unpack the key habits, decisions, and mindset shifts that helped Rory get over the line at Augusta. They cut through the highlight-reel moments and focus on the practical takeaways everyday golfers can start using immediately. Whether it’s smarter shot selection, handling nerves on the tee, or understanding when to play aggressively versus conservatively, this episode is all about turning elite performance into real-world improvement. If you’ve ever wondered how to think your way around the course like a major champion this one’s for you. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
April 15 · 43 min
How To Get From Mid To Low Handicap
In this episode of the Your Golf Podcast by NCG, Host PGA Professional Jack Backhouse is joined by professional golfer Nicola Slater to explore how mid-handicap golfers can make the leap to single figures. Using insights from Shot Scope data, they highlight the key differences between mid- and low-handicap players, from approach play and short game performance to smarter course management and practice habits. Packed with practical, data-driven advice and personal insights, this episode offers a clear roadmap for golfers looking to lower their scores and play more consistent golf. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
April 8 · 47 min
The Biggest First Medal Mistakes (And How to Avoid Them)
In this episode of the Your Golf Podcast, PGA Pro Jack Backhouse and professional golfer Nicola Slater break down exactly how to get ready for your first medal competition of the year. From sharpening your practice routine and structuring your time in the lead-up, to managing those inevitable first-tee nerves, they share practical, easy-to-apply tips to help you feel prepared rather than pressured. They also dive into course management, mindset, and the small details that often make the biggest difference on competition day. Whether you’re shaking off the winter rust or looking to start your season on the front foot, this episode will help you step onto the tee with confidence and give yourself the best chance of putting a solid score on the card. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
April 1 · 54 min
What Scratch Golfers Do Differently
What really separates a scratch golfer from the rest? In this episode of the Your Golf Podcast, Tom Irwin and PGA Professional Jack Backhouse break down the habits, decisions, and mental approaches that low handicappers use to consistently shoot lower scores and why it’s not what most club golfers think. From smarter course management and knowing your numbers, to eliminating double bogeys and embracing the “good miss”, this episode focuses on the real difference-maker: golf IQ. As the guys explain, it’s not about hitting it further or flushing it every time, it’s about making better decisions, handling bad shots, and staying in control of your scorecard. They also dive into: Why scratch golfers prioritise position over perfection The importance of understanding your distances and playing realistically How elite players manage mistakes and avoid big numbers The mindset shift that turns missed greens into scoring opportunities If you’re stuck between handicaps and feel like you’re close to your potential, this episode will show you where those last few shots are really going. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
March 25 · 46 min
Do Training Aids Actually Help Your Game?
Training aids are everywhere in golf but do they actually help you improve, or just give the illusion of progress? In this episode of Your Golf Podcast by NCG, Tom Irwin is joined once again by PGA Professional Jack Backhouse to take a closer look at golf training aids and whether they really deliver on their promises. They dig into the world of alignment sticks, swing trainers, impact bags and more, exploring which aids genuinely help golfers build better habits and which might just end up forgotten in the garage. From the psychology of practice to the gap between feel and real improvement, they ask the big question: are training aids a shortcut to better golf, or just another part of the game’s ever-expanding industry? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
March 10 · 55 min
Mini Drivers, 7-Woods & Zero Torque: Why Do Golf Equipment Trends Come and Go?
Mini drivers, 7-woods and zero-torque putters seem to be everywhere right now — but why does golf equipment go through these waves of popularity in the first place? In this episode of Your Golf Podcast by NCG, Tom Irwin is joined by PGA Professional Jack Backhouse to explore why certain clubs and technologies suddenly become the must-have items in golfers’ bags. They look at the factors behind modern equipment trends, from tour influence and social media buzz to genuine performance gains and clever marketing - and ask whether these trends actually help everyday golfers play better, or if they’re simply part of golf’s ever-evolving gear cycle. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
February 25 · 43 min
Is It Easier To Be A Scratch Golfer Under WHS?
Becoming a scratch golfer has always been the ultimate milestone for many club players - but has the World Handicap System made it easier to get there? In this episode of Your Golf Podcast by NCG, Tom Irwin is joined by PGA Pro Jack Backhouse to unpack one of the most debated questions in amateur golf: is reaching scratch under WHS actually more achievable than it used to be under the CONGU system? They also explore the practical side of the journey - what it genuinely takes to get to scratch, the habits and skills that matter most, and whether reaching a handicap of zero is realistically possible for every golfer. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
February 18 · 47 min
The Biggest Myths About Drivers Debunked!
Drivers are the most exciting club in the bag… but also the one surrounded by the most confusion. In this episode of Your Golf Podcast by NCG, Tom Irwin is joined by PGA Pro Jack Backhouse to tackle the biggest myths golfers still believe about drivers — and why those misconceptions could be costing you serious distance and accuracy. Together, Tom and Jack break down common misunderstandings around loft, spin, swing speed, and forgiveness, exploring why many amateurs are using driver setups that don’t actually suit their game. The conversation also dives into myths surrounding shaft flex, adjustable driver settings, and whether buying the latest model really makes a difference compared to getting the right fit and learning what works for your swing. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
February 10 · 44 min
How To Be A Good Golf Parent: Are You Helping Or Hurting?
Getting kids into golf has never been more important - or more challenging. In this episode of Your Golf Podcast by NCG, Tom Irwin sits down with PGA Pro Jack Backhouse to explore the realities of junior golf today, from those tricky first steps to keeping young players engaged long enough to fall in love with the game. Tom and Jack dig into why the beginning is often the hardest part: golf’s complexity compared to other sports, the pressure of scoring too early, and why simply getting kids out on the course can be harder than it sounds. They discuss the huge rise in driving range technology and gamification, how it’s transformed engagement for young golfers, and whether that tech can sometimes make the transition to on-course golf more difficult. The conversation also tackles some of the biggest barriers parents don’t always anticipate — from dress codes and club culture to well-meaning but overwhelming feedback. Jack shares common mistakes parents make, why “letting them get on with it” often works best, and how focusing on fun, confidence, and basic movement beats obsessing over scores every time. They also cover why playing with friends is so powerful, when kids should start heading onto the course, how physical development and getting stronger naturally improves performance, and why enjoyment should always come before technique and results. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
January 13 · 58 min
What Are Equipment Brands Focusing On In 2026?
It's new gear season! But what actually matters as brands launch their brand-new equipment? In this episode of Your Golf Podcast by NCG, Tom Irwin sits down again with PGA Pro Jack Backhouse to unpack everything we’re about to see from this year’s biggest launches. Tom and Jack cut through the hype around new drivers, irons, and balls to explain what innovations are real performance gains and what’s just marketing. They dive into what brands are prioritising - from ultra-fast ball speeds and novel materials like advanced carbon composites to redesigned face structures and adjustable weighting - and how those changes should influence your club choices. Along the way they break down the tech talk so you’re not drowning in buzzwords: what launch conditions you should be paying attention to, how new materials affect feel and performance, and why some trends (like ever-higher spin rates) aren’t always beneficial for every golfer. They also discuss how these 2026 designs are being tested — including how simulator and TrackMan data are used in real product development — and offer insight into what improvements truly translate to better golf, not just better specs on paper. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Dec 24, 2025 · 51 min
How To Understand Your Trackman Numbers
Launch angles. Spin rates. Ball speed. Sound familiar… but do they actually mean anything? In the latest episode of Your Golf Podcast by NCG, Tom Irwin is joined by PGA Pro Jack Backhouse to cut through the noise and explain what TrackMan numbers really matter and which ones you can safely ignore. They break down how to read golf simulator data without getting overwhelmed, what numbers to focus on to actually improve, why indoor golf is booming, and what new equipment could be changing the game in 2026. Because in modern golf, we’ve got more information than ever… but not always more understanding. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.