Ep. 51 Ben Polland / Shooting Star

Have you ever wanted to know how the best players among PGA Professionals are able to maintain their competitive playing ability while also exceeding the expectations of their job titles?

On this episode of the The Inward Nine we get to spend time with Ben Polland, the Director of Golf at Shooting Star in Jackson Hole, Wyoming. In addition to being a leader at Shooting Star, Ben is also the 2024 Club Professional Champion and has played in 4 PGA Championships.

Along with learning about how Ben's journey took him to Jackson Hole, we discuss:

What Ben feels it takes to compete at the highest level as a PGA golf professional.

How Ben learned to handle all the other moving parts of life so he could play his best golf.

How Ben's expectations for playing have evolved over the years and how it has allowed him to arrive at his current mindset and mental state.

When it comes to the best of the best players, Ben will share what intangible he feels those players possess that allows them to separate themselves.

The wonderful advice Ben received from his mentor, the legendary Darrell Kestner from Deepdale on Long Island.

The question Ben's father asked him just before his passing. It's a question we all need to ask ourselves before making any big decision.

We get to hear about what life looks like as a golf professional in Jackson Hole Wyoming and of course, we get Ben's wonderful advice for the next generation.

To connect or follow along:

• You can follow Ben Polland on Instagram @bnpllnd
• You can follow The Inward Nine on Instagram @theinwardninepodcast
• You can follow Chandler Withington on Instagram @chandler.withington
• You can email Chandler: podcast@archive22.com

Music Credits:

• Opening: 'If You Leave' (Instrumental) by Orchestral Manoeuvers in the Dark
• Opening: 'Part of It' by Jordan Davis
• Interlude: 'Old Friends' (Instrumental) by Ben Rector
• Closing: 'Almost Home' by Ben Rector