The Range (Ari Ratner)

In the inaugural episode, Ari and Chris share their personal journeys with Golf, reflecting on how the sport became a powerful outlet for connection and creativity, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. Together, they discuss the excitement and challenges of launching a business rooted in a shared passion and the lessons they’ve learned.

This candid conversation offers fresh insights into:

• The evolution of golf as a sport and culture.
• How complementary skills and friendships can elevate a business.
• The importance of enjoying the game and competing with yourself.
• Lessons from failure and how they fuel future success.

Listeners will gain a deeper appreciation of how golf and entrepreneurship intersect, how innovative ideas are transforming the game, and why inclusivity and new perspectives are driving its future.

⛳ Key Takeaways:

• Golf offers life lessons that resonate beyond the course.
• Friendship and trust are essential in business partnerships.
• The evolving golf community is attracting new audiences with innovative products and approaches.

Whether you’re a seasoned golfer, an aspiring entrepreneur, or just curious about the connections between passion and business, The Range promises thought-provoking stories and actionable insights.

In the latest episode of The Range, we sit down with Jared Doerfler, the founder of Hanna Golf and the writer behind the Perfect Putt newsletter. Jared shares how his passion for golf evolved into building a brand that’s making waves in the golf industry.

From growing up in a golf-loving family to navigating the challenges of entrepreneurship, Jared's story is one of resilience and innovation. He discusses the transition from writing about golf to launching a business, the importance of discipline and accountability, and the key role of relationships in the golf community.

Jared also opens up about the personal significance behind naming his brand, his approach to prototyping and production, and the ongoing renaissance golf is experiencing post-COVID. Whether you’re a golfer, entrepreneur, or both, this episode is packed with insights that will inspire and motivate.

In this episode, Sam Goulden shares his unique journey from a casual golfer to a professional coach and entrepreneur in the golf industry. He discusses his early experiences with golf, the transition to coaching, and the evolution of his brand, Minimal Golf. 

Sam emphasizes the importance of passion and innovation in creating a new type of golf bag that meets modern needs, while also navigating the challenges of the golf equipment industry. 

In this conversation, Sam shares his entrepreneurial journey with Minimal Golf, detailing the challenges and successes of launching a Kickstarter campaign, the importance of determination in business, and the innovative approach to creating sustainable golf products. He emphasizes the value of community, teamwork, and personal growth within his company, while also discussing future aspirations for Minimal Golf.

In this episode of The Range, Ari Ratner sits down with James Carlson, founder of Inland Grove, a streetwear-inspired golf brand redefining the culture of the sport. From his roots in California’s Inland Empire to building a brand inspired by streetwear icons like Stüssy, James shares the story of turning his love for golf into a movement for change.

Discover how James went from casual golfer to brand builder, the challenges he faced launching Inland Grove, and his mission to make golf more inclusive and accessible for the next generation. You’ll hear about the inspiration behind the brand’s bear logo, “Caddy,” and how community, creativity, and impact drive everything James does.

Packed with entrepreneurial insights, personal reflections, and plenty of golf talk, this episode is a must-listen for golfers, brand builders, and streetwear enthusiasts alike.

In this episode of The Range, we sit down with Pete Wilson, co-founder and CMO of Grass Clippings, to explore how four lifelong friends turned their passion for golf into a groundbreaking brand that’s changing the game. 

From honoring greenskeepers to creating electrifying under-the-lights tournaments, Grass Clippings is bringing fresh energy and inclusivity to the sport.

Pete shares their journey—from transforming a municipal course in Arizona into a community hub to launching the innovative Grass League. 

Along the way, he offers insights on entrepreneurship, resilience, and building a brand with purpose. Whether you’re a golfer or an aspiring entrepreneur, this episode is packed with inspiration to start your year off right.

Listen now to discover how Grass Clippings is making waves and what’s next for their bold vision.

In this episode of The Range, Ari Ratner talks with Jon Madera, the founder of Buena Gente Golf, about his mission to make golf more inclusive and reflective of diverse communities. From humble beginnings in Puerto Rico to launching at the PGA Show, Jon shares:

• How a childhood connection to golf inspired his brand
• The challenges and triumphs of creating a culturally resonant business
• Lessons on storytelling, community, and entrepreneurship

Jon’s vision for Buena Gente Golf goes beyond apparel—it’s about celebrating culture, breaking stereotypes, and connecting people through the game. Whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur or a golf enthusiast, this episode will inspire you to swing big.

In this episode of The Range, host Ari Ratner sits down with Tyler Johnson, founder of Charlie Golf Co., to discuss his journey from competitive golfer to entrepreneur. Tyler shares the inspiration behind his toddler-friendly golf bags, born from the desire to create a more accessible and practical way for kids to enjoy the sport.

Listen as Tyler recounts his personal connection to golf, how he turned an idea sparked at the driving range into a thriving business, and the importance of storytelling and community in building his brand. From navigating the challenges of manufacturing to embracing the power of social media, Tyler provides valuable insights for entrepreneurs and golf enthusiasts alike.

Tune in to hear about Tyler’s plans for expanding Charlie Golf Co., his vision for the future of junior golf, and how his family and friends have supported his venture every step of the way. 

This is a story of passion, perseverance, and a love for the game passed down through generations.

Links:

• Website: charliegolfco.com
• Instagram: @charliegolfco
• Tyler's Twitter: @TylerJohnson_59

In this episode, Ari Ratner sits down with Billy Ainsley and Andrew Winter, the co-founders of Bantee Golf, a social app reshaping the way golfers connect, share, and engage. 

From a casual idea born during COVID to a growing platform for golf enthusiasts, Billy and Andrew take us through their journey of launching and evolving Bantee.

They share insights on:

• Their personal connections to golf and how it shaped their entrepreneurial journey.
• The challenges and victories of building a digital product in the golf space.
• The importance of community, both on and off the course.

Whether you're a golfer, an entrepreneur, or just someone interested in the intersections of sport and technology, this conversation is packed with inspiration and actionable advice.

Don't miss the rapid-fire Q&A at the end, where the founders share their favorite gear, courses, and biggest lessons from the game.

Links:

• Website: banteegolf.com
• Instagram: @banteegolf
• App Store: Bantee Golf

In this episode ofThe Range, we sit down with Preston McClellan, founder and CEO of Golf Space Collective, a trailblazing golf-focused marketing agency. Preston shares his journey from growing up inspired by Tiger Woods to becoming a pioneer in social media and digital marketing for the golf industry. He discusses his time at the PGA Tour, the challenges of pitching social media to athletes in its early days, and how he took the leap to build a company that bridges creativity with an authentic love for the game.

Listen in as Preston reveals insights on entrepreneurship, the evolution of golf marketing, and why relationships are the foundation for success—both on and off the course. Whether you're an entrepreneur, marketer, or golf enthusiast, this episode is packed with lessons and inspiration.

🎧 Tune in now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you listen!

In this episode of The Range, we sit down with Ryan Walsh, founder and CEO of Fairway Finder, to explore how he’s revolutionizing the way golfers book tee times.

What began as a personal frustration turned into a dynamic platform that aggregates available tee times across courses, offering a streamlined alternative to traditional booking systems. 

Ryan shares his journey, from getting scammed by a developer to building a successful MVP, and how he leveraged community feedback and creative marketing to fuel growth. 

If you’ve ever struggled to find a last-minute tee time or want to learn how to navigate the challenges of building a tech-driven startup in the golf space, this episode is a must-listen.

In this episode of The Range, we sit down with Dan & Katie Winters, the husband-and-wife duo behind 35x70 Golf Co. What started as a simple idea for custom headcovers has grown into a full apparel brand celebrating Midwest golf culture. We dive into their journey from professional golfers to entrepreneurs, the lessons they’ve learned along the way, and how they’re building a brand that shines a spotlight on hidden gems across the Midwest.

In This Episode:

⛳ The origin story of 35x70 Golf Co. and its evolution from headcovers to apparel
🏌️‍♂️ How playing golf professionally helped shape their approach to business
🤝 The power of community and storytelling in golf entrepreneurship
📦 The challenges of building a brand from scratch—from viral moments to product pivots
🔥 Their vision for the future and how they’re carving a niche in golf fashion

🔑 Key Quote:
"We wanted to build a brand that tells the story of the Midwest’s golf culture—courses that time forgot, local pride, and the love of the game." — Dan & Katie Winters

🎧 Listen now on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts!

In this episode of The Range, we sit down with Josh Kaplan, founder of Clubhouse Work & Golf, the world’s first co-working and golf club. Josh shares his journey from working in software to launching a 17,000-square-foot space in Denver where professionals can work, network, and improve their game—all without a tee time.

We dive into:

⛳ How a garage golf simulator sparked the idea for Clubhouse
🏢 The challenges of launching a first-of-its-kind co-working space for golfers
💡 Lessons from software startups that helped shape the business
📈 The future of The Clubhouse and its potential national expansion

Whether you're a golf entrepreneur, a remote worker, or just love the game, this episode is packed with insights on building community, adapting to challenges, and turning passion into business.

🎧 Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts!

#Golf #Entrepreneurship #Coworking #GolfBusiness #Startups #TheRangePod

Golf is often seen as an exclusive sport, but Benjamin Stromberg, founder and CEO of GolfRoots, is on a mission to change that. What started as a small operation selling used clubs out of his parents’ garage has grown into a national movement making golf more affordable and accessible for new players.

In this episode, Benjamin shares how GolfRoots is tackling the biggest barriers to entry in golf—high equipment costs, lack of education, and difficulty finding welcoming places to play. From pioneering trade-in programs at 300+ private clubs to developing new ways to connect golfers with quality instruction, Benjamin's vision goes far beyond selling clubs—he's growing the game for the next generation.

🎙️ What You’ll Learn:

⛳ How Benjamin turned a Facebook Marketplace side hustle into a national golf brand
🏌️‍♂️ The three biggest challenges that keep people from picking up the game—and how GolfRoots is solving them
📈 What it takes to scale a golf startup and work with some of the biggest clubs in the country
🚀 The future of making golf more inclusive and welcoming to all

This episode is packed with insights on the future of golf, entrepreneurship, and how passion can turn into a thriving business.

🎧 Listen now and join the movement to make golf more accessible for everyone!

🎥🏌️‍♂️ From Music to Golf: The Story Behind Branded Golf

What if your first gig in an industry landed you face-to-face with Hideki Matsuyama and Rory McIlroy? That’s exactly what happened to Austin Peckham, founder of Branded Golf, a creative agency specializing in premium content for golf, hospitality, and food & beverage brands.

In this episode of The Range Podcast, we dive into Austin’s journey—from shooting music videos to building a business that helps golf brands tell their stories through high-quality visuals. He shares how taking risks, embracing creativity, and following his passion for golf led him to work with some of the biggest names in the game.

🎙️ Episode Highlights:

📸 From Music to Golf – How Austin transitioned from producing music videos to golf content.
🎥 Building Branded Golf – A behind-the-scenes look at working with golf brands, courses, and resorts.
🚀 Taking the Leap – Why betting on yourself and stepping outside your comfort zone is key to success.

🔑 Key Takeaway:

"You just have to know and trust yourself as a creator. It’s not about faking it till you make it, it’s about showing up, taking risks, and proving you belong." — Austin Peckham

🎧 Listen now on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts!

What happens when two seasoned operators team up to transform how golf startups get funded? In this episode, Ari sits down with Matt Erley, co-founder of Old Tom Capital, to talk about the growing investment landscape in golf—from simulator tech to agronomy innovation.

Matt shares how his background at Drizly and Havenly, combined with his partner Evan Roosevelt's experience at Random Golf Club, led them to launch one of the first golf-focused investment firms. Together, they’re identifying high-growth opportunities in the “golf curious” space and bringing venture capital to parts of the sport that are redefining accessibility, sustainability, and the future of play.

Whether you’re a founder building in golf, an investor curious about the space, or just love the game—this episode is full of real talk on what it takes to build and back a winning golf business.

🎯 Topics covered:
 – The rise of golf-focused venture capital
 – Why the sport’s off-course formats are booming
 – What Old Tom looks for in a pitch deck
 – Why founders need to remove their “golf goggles”
 – The difference between passion and practicality in entrepreneurship

🎧 Listen now and find out why the next wave of golf innovation might not happen on a course at all.