Nantz on his experiences at the Canadian Open, his backyard Par 3, Golf Canada and more!
Jim Nance reveals the spontaneous origin of his iconic call 'Glorious and Free' during Nick Taylor's 72-foot putt at the RBC Canadian Open—a moment that became a cultural touchstone, even earning a place on Taylor's driver head cover. Nance shares how the phrase emerged from a blend of national pride, emotional resonance, and the unique atmosphere of the tournament, where Canadian fans' anthem became an anthem of triumph. Beyond the spotlight, he opens up about his backyard par 3 in Nashville, a private golf sanctuary that has hosted legends from Jack Nicklaus to Patrick Mahomes, all drawn by the chance to hit one shot on his course. The story of a LSU golfer who made a hole-in-one on his first swing—exactly as promised—becomes a testament to the magic of golf and generosity. Nance also reflects on the deep personal significance of working alongside Jack Nicklaus, admitting he still feels intimidated by his boyhood idol. From the emotional weight of a fallen colleague to the joy of mentoring youth through First Tee, Nance’s journey is one of legacy, connection, and the quiet joy found in the game’s most unexpected moments.
The phrase 'Glorious and Free' was spontaneous, born from national pride and emotional release during Nick Taylor's 72-foot putt at the Canadian Open.
Nance’s Nashville backyard par 3 has hosted Jack Nicklaus, Patrick Mahomes, Phil Mickelson, and even a LSU golfer who made a hole-in-one on his first swing.
Jack Nicklaus spent three hours with Nance at the Memorial Tournament—Nance admitted he was still intimidated by his boyhood idol after decades.
First Tee is not about producing future pros but teaching core values like integrity, perseverance, and respect through golf.
Nance prepares for tournaments by researching players’ tendencies and crafting unique storylines, especially for weekend leaders.
…and 3 more takeaways available in PodZeus
Jim Nance on His Canadian Open Experience
“I said it glorious and free, and I thought, well, wait a minute. Was that okay to say that?”
The Origin of 'Glorious and Free'
“I heard, you know, not that I don't know the lyrics already, but I just kept hearing it and admiring it, and I think it was just ingrained in my head.”
Backyard Par 3: A Golfer’s Sanctuary
“He stood over the shot and he knocked it in the hole. No way. Come on. He did.”
Legends on the Tee: From Nicklaus to Mahomes
“Jack Nicklaus, Arnold Palmer. Incredible. Again, I know name-dropping is... We love it. We appreciate it greatly.”
Mentorship and Legacy in Golf
Nance discusses his role with First Tee, emphasizing values over talent, and his deep friendship with Warren Sy, a fellow Houston alum.
“Man, I am so intimidated being around you. You're Jack Nicklaus.”
“And he stood over the shot and he knocked it in the hole. No way. Come on. He did.”
“But when it did, it washed over me, and I said it glorious and free, and I thought, well, wait a minute. Was that okay to say that?”
Host
Guest
Jim Nance
person
Nick Taylor
person
Jack Nicklaus
person
First Tee
organization
Warren Sy
person
Arnold Palmer
person
Peyton Manning
person
Patrick Mahomes
person
Brant Snedeker
person
Lawrence Applebaum
person
OverDrive - June 9, 2026 - Hour 2 - Mike Johnson
47m • 6/9/2026
OverDrive - June 3, 2026 - Hour 1 - Jesse Marsch
47m • 6/3/2026
490. Steve Levy
1h 42m • 6/5/2026
Trump Scrambles Out of DC as Iran Returns Fire!!!!
16m • 6/6/2026
NBA Finals Bonus: MAI Capital's Joe McLean on Being the NBA's 'Money Whisperer'
1h 14m • 6/8/2026
Anthopoulos on the Braves' positive season, managing the team and the aspects of building a team
12m • 6/1/2026
OverDrive - June 1, 2026 - Hour 1 - Alex Anthopoulos
47m • 6/1/2026
Williams on the Hurricanes advancing to the Stanley Cup Final, the team's success and playing the Golden Knights
11m • 6/1/2026
OverDrive - June 1, 2026 - Hour 2 - Justin Williams
46m • 6/1/2026
Staal on representing the Hurricanes, winning the Stanley Cup and the matchup for Carolina
12m • 6/2/2026
Start discovering podcast insights today
Start with a 7-day trial and explore a growing catalog of popular podcasts. No credit card required.
No credit card required • 7-day trial • Cancel anytime

