Episode Details

Golf can be one of the healthiest ways to spend a few hours, but only if the environment feels welcoming. I’m Jeffrey Ford, and I sat down with Colby Hyduke, head golf professional at Crossroads at Palmetto Bluff, to talk about how the game can shift from intimidating to inviting with just a few intentional choices and a lot of care for the people showing up. 

Colby shares his path from growing up under the guidance of his father, to playing collegiate golf at Newberry College, to stepping into the business world before finding his way back to golf with a deeper sense of purpose. We get into what real coaching looks like for beginner golfers, why a first experience can make or break someone’s relationship with the sport, and how Crossroads creates a lower-pressure vibe through match play roots, creative shot options, and thoughtful pace of play. If you care about growing the game of golf, golf instruction, or building a strong member experience, you’ll take plenty from Colby’s approach. 

We also connect golf and wellness in a practical way: walking a hole as a quick mental reset, balancing competitiveness with enjoyment, and using patience and presence to handle adversity off the course. Colby’s definition of wellness lands with real weight: balance in life, and being in a position to help the people around you. 

If this conversation sparks something for you, subscribe to the show, share it with a friend who wants to get into golf without the stress, and leave a review so more listeners can find Behind the Bluff. What helps you feel welcomed when you try something new?