S12, Ep 46 Part 1: Ryder Cup Real Talk & Mental Game Mastery with Ron Sirak & Jeff Smith

This week’s lineup is one that’s sure to knock your socks off. Leading things off is the man I consider to be the greatest golf writer of this or any generation, Ron Sirak. Ron joined me recently, and I couldn’t wait to bring him back. This time, he breaks down what we saw—and heard—at the Ryder Cup. Ron shares his thoughts on Europe’s decision to “run it back” with Luke Donald, and we could see this same team until the U.S. proves it can beat them. We also discuss whether it’s time for the US team to look outside of golf for its next captain—someone who’s more motivator than a buddy. And since Ron’s a proud Western Pennsylvania native, we couldn’t resist mixing in a little Steelers talk too. Then, Top 100 Instructor Jeff Smith makes his fourth appearance on the show. Jeff, one of the most sought-after coaches in the game, is currently based at The Vintage Club in Indian Wells, California. We cover his thoughts on the Ryder Cup, joke about a Sam Wyche–style reminder that European fans might need in 2027 (“You don’t live in New York!”), and dive into Jeff’s insights on the mental side of golf—how to stop overthinking and why failure often teaches what success cannot. Be sure to come back for Part 2 when David Eby makes his Next on the Tee debut. David played his college golf at Augusta University—known then as Augusta College—where he and his teammates helped build the foundation for the program that would later win back-to-back national championships with the likes of Patrick Reed. While in college, David also caddied at Augusta National, where he looped for some of sports' biggest names and even got to tee it up there himself. After stints as an Assistant Pro in Ohio and Virginia, David has spent nearly three decades at Banyan Golf Club in Palm Beach, Florida, and he brings with him a treasure trove of stories you won’t want to miss. So settle in and enjoy another great week of golf talk, laughs, and great tips here on Next on the Tee.