The Approach Shot

This week's we have the joy of welcoming the extraordinary Vince Papale, whose journey from the hard streets of Philadelphia to becoming a professional football player is nothing short of awe-inspiring. Walk with us as we reminisce about how the movie based on Vince's journey "Invincible" became an iconic movie whose spirit reminds us all of "Rocky" and "Ruby". 

We get personal with Vince as he shares his recipe for leading a fulfilling life. From emphasizing the importance of eating right and regular cancer screenings to indulging in a classic Philly cheesesteak and a good game of golf, he's got it all figured out. 

As we celebrate 17 years since the release of 'Invincible,' we discuss the creative liberties taken in the movie for a dramatic finish. This episode is packed with life lessons, jaw-dropping moments, and a whole lot of fun. Tune in and get ready to be inspired!

We've got former Major League Baseball player, Tyson Ross, sharing some of his most memorable golfing faux pas this week. With a unique blend of honesty and witty humor, Tyson treats us to a glimpse of his life off the field, including an endearingly awkward incident with a promotional hat that left him in stitches.

But Tyson isn't just about the laughs. He shares his raw, unfiltered experiences from his esteemed baseball career, including his triumphant return to the Padres in 2018 after a series of debilitating injuries. Hear him reminisce about his first MLB debut, the pride of playing alongside hometown heroes in Oakland, and the electrifying moment his brother Joe clinched the World Series in 2019. Also, discover the secret treasure Tyson is 'safekeeping' at his place (hint: it's got a lot to do with Joe's big win).

Then we turn to the links.  Tyson shares his golfing adventures, revealing his struggles with the short game and the importance of having a wide arsenal of shots. He talks about the unexpected lessons he's learned from his golf escapades and how they apply to life in general. 

Also, get ready to be inspired as Tyson shares his vision for his charity golf tournament, aiming to help kids overcome financial barriers to playing sports, and the importance of paying it forward. This episode is a home run of exciting stories, laughter, and heartwarming insights with Tyson Ross.

This week we sit down with the legendary Mark Collins, former NFL cornerback and two-time Super Bowl winner.
 
This episode offers a riveting peek into the intense world of NFL football, as Mark spills behind-the-scenes stories from his time with the New York Giants and Kansas City Chiefs. Strap in as we explore the exhilarating highs of Super Bowl victories, the changing dynamics of teams, and the driving ambition that spurred Mark to become one of the most respected figures in football.

But the excitement doesn't stop there! We switch gears to explore Mark's second love - golf. His infectious enthusiasm for the game will have you itching to hit the green as he shares helpful tips, engaging anecdotes, and the key differences between viewing golf as a sport versus a game. Also, hear about Mark's amusing encounters with renowned golf figures Dave Stockton and Butch Harman, the joy of his custom-made golf bag, and his morning rounds at Iron Horse Country Club.

As we wrap up, Mark's mischievous side comes into play. Get ready to laugh your socks off as he shares hilarious tales of pranks, plans for a relaxing afternoon at the 19th hole, and the etiquette of a hole in one that led to a player selling his car to pay the bar tab! We also delve into his impactful venture, TwoFiveSports.com, which empowers student-athletes in their hunt for sports scholarships. This episode is packed with laughter, wisdom, and insights. Trust us; you won't want to miss a second!

We welcome our this week's guest, Olaf Kolzig, of the Washington Capitals.  

"Olie the Goalie" as he was known, is a South African born, German goalie with an impressive NHL career. Ollie spills the beans on his journey to winning the Vezina Trophy in 2000, and his experiences playing and coaching for the Stanley Cup.

Taking a more serious turn, we explore the journey of young athletes. We outline the unique challenges they encounter, such as the immense pressure of being drafted at a young age and transitioning from junior leagues to professional ones. Through sharing personal experiences and anecdotes, we emphasize the importance of mental toughness and a positive outlook for making it in highly competitive sports like the NHL. Moving on, we address the anticipation surrounding the All-Star games and the upcoming NHL season, including the sheer thrill and pressure that comes with playing in Toronto, the mecca of hockey.

Closing out our discussion, we touch on the admirable work of the Carson Kolzig Foundation, and its efforts to fund an autism center, a cause close to our hearts. Then, we shift the spotlight back to Olaf, our guest, for an insightful interview. We explore his career, his love for golf and hockey, and the life rules he swears by. So, buckle up for an exhilarating mix of sports, personal stories, and inspiring conversations. Join us for this riveting discussion that is sure to offer a fresh perspective on sports and the stories behind the athletes we love.

Imagine you're a young athlete with a dream. You choose Penn State over Ohio State, influenced by a pivotal relationship with Joe Paterno. You're also drafted by the California Angels, but your heart is in football. 

That's exactly what happened to this week's guest, O.J. McDuffie, and we delve deep into the waters of his unique journey to the NFL. We'll also be chatting about his peculiar fear of fishing, his passion for golf, and his participation in charitable tournaments.

We aren't just about heartwarming stories and sports, though. We're also about making a difference. Tune in as we explore the admirable work of the Catch 81 Foundation, spearheaded by OJ McDuffie. We'll be discussing how this organization is making a real difference in the lives of kids, single-parent homes, and teen moms in South Florida. And remember, according to OJ, whatever happens, always give 110%!

Strap in, ladies and gentlemen, as we venture into the exhilarating world of baseball and golf with the legendary Jeff Montgomery. Steeped in the lore of Major League Baseball, Montgomery spills the beans on his illustrious career, challenges he faced, and his unique pitching style. From tales of his golfer mom that shaped his youth to his impressive record of 304 saves, this conversation is more than just a sports discussion - it's a journey through a life dedicated to the love of the game.

Our dialogue takes you through some of the most memorable moments of Montgomery's career. Remember his immaculate inning in 1990 or his breakout year in 1989? He recalls these and more, including his relationship with Dan Quisenberry and playing alongside giants of the game like George Brett and Bo Jackson. Get entrenched in the gripping narrative as we weave through the impact of the Royals' 1994 strike and how it impacted Montgomery's career. 

But it's not all baseball. We shift gears to talk about Montgomery's life beyond the diamond, specifically his golf game and his thrilling escapades at the Baseball World Series of Golf at Pebble Beach. We round off by chatting about his love for Kansas City, the city's signature barbecue, and his insights on the Royals' recent comebacks. Be prepared to be swept away in a whirlwind of stories, insights, and life lessons from one of the most respected players in baseball. This is your chance to peek into the life and phenomenal career of Jeff Montgomery!Support the show

Prepare to take a trip down memory lane with us, as we recollect our vibrant childhood memories, from the excitement of moving houses to the simple fun of school bus rides. We'll make you chuckle with our humorous comparison between the contrasting tasks of helping friends and family move. And yes, let's wrap that reminiscence with a brain-teaser, have a shot at guessing our special guest - hint, they've got their name etched in the bowling record books!

Now, shifting gears to the adrenaline-fueled NFL realm, we bring you an intimate conversation with the legendary Leroy Irvin. Leroy, with his impactful career in the Los Angeles Rams and Detroit Lions, shares gripping insider stories from his iconic matches and exhilarating interceptions. NFL aficionados, be prepared to be captivated as Leroy delves into his rivalry days with Dwight Clark and his game against the San Francisco 49ers.

As we wind down, the spotlight moves to an entirely different field - Golf. We share our insightful experiences on playing with younger players, highlighting the importance of a handicap. Drawing parallels from Randy Cross and Leroy's careers, we reflect upon how a touchdown dance can indeed be a game-changer. Teasing our next podcast guest, we reveal they are an eminent figure from Major League Baseball. Make sure you're tuned in and subscribed to our podcast for this exciting reveal and more such entertaining conversations!

The Approach Shot Podcast makes a triumphant return. After a hiatus that lasted longer than we would have liked John Ashton and Neal Michaels are back with their off beat humor and skewed view of the world. Once again the guys offer a visit with a sports Celebrity. We talk about his career, his golf game and of course, the Hot seat segment with 6 off the wall questions where we get 6 off the cuff answers. This week we visit with a High School Shot Put Champion, a College football stud and Rose Bowl winner, and a man who owns 3 Super Bowl rings that he won with the San Fransisco 49ers. Our guest this week is Randy Cross!

It’s the final episode of The Approach Shot Podcast! And we go out with one of our all-time favorite interviews. It’s Michael Ortman, Author of the Best-Selling book, 50 For 50. Once you listen this will be one of your favorite episodes too. Before we say “goodbye” to our loyal audience for the last time, let us also say “Thank you”. Thank you for listening, for following. For your support and kind words over the past two years. Feel free to peruse all of our archived episodes. They will be here in perpetuity (or forever, whichever comes first). Enjoy and Thank You all again.Support the show

We revisit our conversations with Andy VanSlyke. He was an outstanding outfielder with the Pittsburgh Pirates. He is also one fot he funniest men you have ever heard. Great baseball stories from one of the greats, Andy VanSlyke once again this week on The Approach Shot Podcast.Support the show

Levon Kirkland was a linebacker for the Pittsburgh Stealers. He was smaller than many others who played the position. He was faster than many too. In fact, it has been said that Levon Kirkland created what has become the modern Line Backer position. And after seeing what Levon did to Emmet Smith in the Super Bowl XXX you probably don’t want to argue the point. Levon Kirkland talks college football, the NFL, and golf on this week’s edition of The Approach Shot PodcastSupport the show

Jerry Reuss (born June 19, 1949)—pronounced "royce"—is a former left-handed pitcher in Major League Baseball, best known for his years with the Los Angeles Dodgers.Reuss played for eight teams in his major league career; along with the Dodgers (1979–87), he played for the St. Louis Cardinals (1969–71), Houston Astros (1972–73), and Pittsburgh Pirates (1974–78). At the end of his career (1987–90), he played for the Cincinnati Reds, California Angels, Chicago White Sox, Milwaukee Brewers, and the Pirates again (Reuss is one of only two Pirates to have played for Danny Murtaugh, Chuck Tanner, and Jim Leyland, the other being John Candelaria). With the Dodgers, he won the 1981 World Series over the New York Yankees. In 1988 he became the second pitcher in history, joining Milt Pappas, to win 200 career games without ever winning 20 in a single season.[1] Reuss is one of only 29 players in major league history to play in four different decades.[2]Support the show

Jerry Reuss (born June 19, 1949)—pronounced "Royce"—is a former left-handed pitcher in Major League Baseball, best known for his years with the Los Angeles Dodgers. Reuss played for eight teams in his major league career; along with the Dodgers (1979–87), he played for the St. Louis Cardinals (1969–71), Houston Astros (1972–73), and Pittsburgh Pirates (1974–78). At the end of his career (1987–90), he played for the Cincinnati Reds, California Angels, Chicago White Sox, Milwaukee Brewers, and the Pirates again (Reuss is one of only two Pirates to have played for Danny Murtaugh, Chuck Tanner, and Jim Leyland, the other being John Candelaria). With the Dodgers, he won the 1981 World Series over the New York Yankees. In 1988 he became the second pitcher in history, joining Milt Pappas, to win 200 career games without ever winning 20 in a single season. Reuss is one of only 29 players in major league history to play in four different decades.


If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, crisis counseling and referral services can be accessed by calling 1-800-GAMBLER (1-800-426-2537) (IL/IN/MI/NJ/PA/WV/WY), 1-800-NEXT STEP (AZ), 1-800-522-4700 (CO/NH), 888-789-7777/visit http://ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-BETS OFF (IA), 1-877-770-STOP (7867) (LA), 877-8-HOPENY/text HOPENY (467369) (NY), visit OPGR.org (OR), call/text TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN), or 1-888-532-3500 (VA). 21+ (18+ WY). Physically present in AZ/CO/CT/IL/IN/IA/LA/MI/NJ/ NY/PA/TN/VA/WV/WY only. New customers only. Min. $25 deposit required. Eligibility restrictions apply and product offerings vary by state. See http://draftkings.com/sportsbook for details.Support the show

This week on The Approach Shot Podcast we are pleased to have author Michael Ortman is our guest. Michael has written a great book called “Opening Day 50-for50”. It’s a collection of stories of how one man attended 50 Opening Day baseball games in 50 years. Inside the book and on the podcast today you will hear some great stories of teams and players whose names you may have forgotten but the memories will come flooding back with Mr. Ortman’s passionate telling of his stories from 50 years of opening day baseball games. Another fun, funny, entertaining edition of The Approach Sahot PodcastSupport the show

This week on the Approach Shot Podcast we have Coach Lon Kruger on to talk about College Basketball, Coaches Against Cancer, and how easy it is to get 4 or 5 career aces on the golf course. You probably have never heard a more humble Hall of Famer talk. He learned early from his dad that there is no “I” only “we”. You will get a whole new appreciation of the upper echelon of College Coaches after hearing 45 minutes of interview with Lon KrugerSupport the show

Brian Hammons spent over 29 years at the Golf Channel doing play by play and studio anchoring for live golf tournament coverage. Each time he was at a Solheim Cup, A President’s Cup, or a Ryder Cup he always thought it would be a lot of fun for regular golfers to have that style of competition. So he created it: The Country Club National Championship. This year it will be held in Myrtle Beach this October. Brian explains the concept, the genesis, and the way you and your team can enter and win. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, crisis counseling and referral services can be accessed by calling 1-800-GAMBLER (1-800-426-2537) (IL/IN/MI/NJ/PA/WV/WY), 1-800-NEXT STEP (AZ), 1-800-522-4700 (CO/NH), 888-789-7777/visit http://ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-BETS OFF (IA), 1-877-770-STOP (7867) (LA), 877-8-HOPENY/text HOPENY (467369) (NY), visit OPGR.org (OR), call/text TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN), or 1-888-532-3500 (VA). 21+ (18+ NH/WY). Physically present in AZ/CO/CT/IL/IN/IA/LA/MI/NH/NJ/NY/OR/ PA/TN/VA/WV/WY only. Min. $5 deposit required. Eligibility restrictions apply. See http://draftkings.com/sportsbook for details.Support the show

Andy Van Slyke is a former member of both the St. Louis Cardinals and the Pittsburgh Pirates where he won 5 gold gloves and made 3 All Star teams. He has some great stories about baseball, his golf game, and sports in general. His stories are indeed great, but even better one-liners. For instance, Andy told us: “they asked me to play 3rd base like Brooks and I did…like Mel Brooks”. This is another fun, funny, and entertaining look into the life of one of baseball's truly great players on this edition of The Approach Shot Podcast. And we welcome a new sponsor: Draft Kings. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, crisis counseling and referral services can be accessed by calling 1-800-GAMBLER (1-800-426-2537) (IL/IN/MI/NJ/PA/WV/WY), 1-800-NEXT STEP (AZ), 1-800-522-4700 (CO/NH), 888-789-7777/visit http://ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-BETS OFF (IA), 1-877-770-STOP (7867) (LA), 877-8-HOPENY/text HOPENY (467369) (NY), visit OPGR.org (OR), call/text TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN), or 1-888-532-3500 (VA).
21+ (18+ NH/WY). Physically present in AZ/CO/CT/IL/IN/IA/LA/MI/NH/NJ/NY/OR/ PA/TN/VA/WV/WY only. Min. $5 deposit required. Eligibility restrictions apply. See http://draftkings.com/sportsbook for details.Support the show

This week on The Approach Shot Podcast our guest is former NHL Goalie, John Vanbiesbrouck. Vanbiesbrouck was a hybrid goaltender who combined the butterfly style and the more traditional stand-up style. He was strong at playing his angles and challenged shooters well. Small for a goaltender, standing only 5' 8", he relied on his quickness to regain his feet after making saves or to make additional saves in goalmouth scrambles. Vanbiesbrouck was aggressive when it came to playing the puck, which helped him tie the Rangers single season record for assists by a goaltender and set the Rangers career record as well. (Since broken by Henrik Lundqvist). Vanbiesbrouck is the Rangers all-time leader in penalty minutes by a goaltender, with 212. Another fun, funny, and oh so entertaining edition of The Approach Shot Podcast.Support the show

From Al Borland on "Home Improvement" to hosting "Family Feud" to teaming up with Tim Allen again on the History Channel's "Assembly Required", Richard Karn has had a storied career. He also plays a mean game of golf. Join us for an hour of stories of acting, Broadway, Hollywood and golf courses all over the world. Richard Karn this week on The Approach Shot Podcast.Support the show

It’s baseball season and this week on The Approach Shot Podcast we talk to a baseball great, Jim Leyritz. Jim played for the Padres, the Res Sox and made his reputation with some team from NY. Yes, even though Jim made his reputation as a Bronx Bomber he still is considered one of the best guests we’ve had. Even John Ashton, the die-hard Red Sox fan enjoyed the conversation, as we know you will too. And yes, Jim is a great golfer, and we talk about lots of golf stuff! Another fun, funny, and entertaining episode of The Approach Shot PodcastSupport the show