Episode 9 – In this special episode of The Hill Unscripted, host Bob Kitchen is joined by his father and Maple Hill Golf co-founder Rich Kitchen for a trip down memory lane — and a deep dive into the smart risks and bold purchases that helped shape the Maple Hill legacy.

Rich shares the backstories behind some of the company’s most legendary buys, including:

• 40,000 Wilson clubs they turned into matched sets that funded green redesigns

• $1.3 million in Odyssey putters stacked outside and sold with major success

• 10,000 Tiger Woods headcovers (aka “Frank”) bought for just $1 apiece

• Killer Bees drivers, Pure Spin wedges, blemished Foot Joy shoes, and more

From golf shows to bulk golf balls and surprise deals, the Kitchens explain how taking smart chances, understanding value, and delivering deals built customer trust — and long-term success.

Bob also answers a listener mailbag question about why many golfers are ditching 3 woods for 5 woods. He explains how launch angles, swing speeds, and versatility make the 5 wood a better fit for a growing number of players.

The episode wraps with Maple Hill updates, including:

• Ladies Week Sale running through August 21st with discounts on gear and apparel

• The 17th Annual Pops Invitational fundraiser for Alzheimer’s, happening August 21st and 23rd, honoring Rich’s father and Maple Hill’s roots

This episode is packed with stories, insights, and history from a family business that continues to shape the game — one great deal at a time.

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Season 1 / Episode 8 – In this episode of The Hill Unscripted, Bob Kitchen, co-owner of Maple Hill Golf, welcomes longtime head fitter Richard Phillips for an in-depth conversation about golf gear, fitting, and the business of the game.

Bob and Richard kick things off by recapping the surprising finish at the Scottish Open, where Chris Gotterup beat Rory McIlroy, reinforcing Bob’s favorite theme: golf is hard.

Then the discussion shifts to putter fittings, including a fun story about Bob’s 74-year-old mother Nancy’s fitting session using the Quintic Ball Roll system. Richard explains how tendencies, misses, and even putter acoustics play a huge role in choosing the right flat stick.

The pair dive into brand perception in golf equipment, highlighting how top-quality products from brands like Cobra and Wilson are often overlooked simply due to consumer bias. They also discuss why feel and sound can make or break a player’s confidence with new clubs.

Next up, Bob and Richard explore golf shaft technology and fitting best practices — including how flex, weight, and length affect performance, why online “miracle shaft” claims should be met with skepticism, and why maintaining a fresh swing is key before getting fitted.

They also answer a listener question about mini drivers, explaining how these “three woods on steroids” can offer more forgiveness and consistent contact for many golfers compared to today’s longer drivers.

Finally, Bob announces the 17th Annual POPS Charity Golf Event, honoring his grandfather and raising funds for Alzheimer’s research. The four-person scramble tees off on Thursday, August 21st, with prizes, contests, and giveaways for a great cause.

Whether you’re curious about improving your gear, understanding brand myths, or supporting a meaningful charity event, this episode has it all.

Season 1 / Episode 7 – On this episode of The Hill Unscripted, Bob Kitchen tees up another wide-ranging, no-nonsense look into the world of golf — both on and off the course.

Bob kicks things off with a recap of the thrilling finish at the John Deere Classic, spotlighting the battle between Grillo, Chapman, and Lipsky that had fans on the edge of their seats.

From there, Bob tackles a big question: How many club options do golfers really need? Spoiler alert — not as many as the brands might want you to think. Bob cuts through the clutter, explaining how most major manufacturers now offer nearly identical product lines and how trial > brand loyalty when it comes to finding the right gear for your swing.

He also issues a warning about online reviews, reminding listeners that many are either AI-generated or fake, and that your best bet is always hands-on experience — not hype.

Next, Bob breaks down a myth about driver lofts — and why launch angle, not stated loft, is the real number that matters when dialing in your distance.

On a lighter note, Bob highlights the buzz around Happy Gilmore 2 and the new Callaway limited-edition golf balls and putters inspired by the film — collectible fun for any fan of the original.

Finally, he takes on a listener mailbag question about pace of play, sharing his thoughts on course responsibility, common sense, and how we can all make golf more enjoyable for everyone on the tee sheet.

And don't forget — Maple Hill’s Garage Sale is going strong through July 20, featuring deep discounts and your chance to win a set of Bridgestone 221 CB Irons!