Mastering Golf Rules with Confidence: USGA Expert Marcela Smith & The Girlfriends Golf Experience

On this episode of The Traveling Golf Diva, Doris Muscarella welcomes Marcela Smith, a USGA Expert Rules Certified educator who has empowered thousands of golfers — especially women — to play with greater confidence, avoid costly penalties, and truly feel welcome on the course.

Marcela’s passion for demystifying the Rules of Golf shines through her innovative Girlfriends Golf Experience — hands-on, on-course clinics that turn intimidating rulebooks into practical, fun learning moments. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned player, Marcela delivers the tools you need to understand key rules, etiquette, and course protocols in a supportive, pressure-free environment.

In this conversation, Marcela shares how she built her reputation as a trusted rules educator, her experience presenting at major industry events like the 2024 PGA Frisco Summit and the 2025 PGA Show in Orlando, and why knowing the rules can actually make golf more enjoyable and social.

If you’ve ever felt unsure about a ruling, hesitated to play with new groups, or wanted to help your girlfriends feel more confident on the course, this episode is packed with insights, real-world tips, and inspiration.

Key Topics Discussed:

• Earning USGA Expert Rules Certification and becoming a leading voice in golf rules education
• The creation and impact of the Girlfriends Golf Experience — interactive on-course rules clinics
• Making golf rules less intimidating and more approachable for all levels
• How proper rules knowledge builds confidence, reduces penalties, and improves the overall golf experience
• Presenting at the 2024 PGA Frisco Summit and the 2025 PGA Show in Orlando
• Tips for beginners and groups of friends who want to play smarter and have more fun

Guest Bio: Marcela Smith is a USGA Expert Rules Certified golf educator and the founder of Girlfriends Guide to Golf. Through her signature Girlfriends Golf Experience, on-course clinics, and digital content, Marcela has helped thousands of golfers — particularly women — master the rules and etiquette of the game. A dynamic speaker and passionate advocate for making golf more welcoming, she has presented at major events including the 2024 PGA Frisco Summit and the 2025 PGA Show in Orlando, Florida.

Connect with Marcela Smith:

• Website: girlfriendsguidetogolf.com
• Instagram: @marcelasmithgolf
• YouTube: Girlfriends Guide to Golf

Call to Action: Ready to finally understand the Rules of Golf and play with more confidence? Visit girlfriendsguidetogolf.com to learn more about Marcela’s Girlfriends Golf Experience, clinics, academy, and upcoming events.

Listen Now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or your favorite podcast platform.

Revolutionizing Golf Apparel: Style, Comfort & Bold Design with Kandace of Kandy Golf

Join Doris Muscarella on The Traveling Golf Diva as she sits down with Kandace, the Founder, CEO, and creative force behind Kandy Golf.

From launching a home-based startup in Dartmouth, Nova Scotia, Canada in November 2019, Kandace has grown Kandy Golf into a vibrant, global golf apparel brand known for its unique fusion of style and high-performance functionality. As a passionate golfer herself, she designs pieces that stand out on the course — bold, comfortable, and anything but ordinary.

In this episode, Kandace shares her entrepreneurial journey, the challenges and triumphs of building a woman-owned golf brand, and her vision for expanding Kandy Golf’s presence, especially in the Southern United States. She’s on a mission to bring year-round, refined, and stylish golf wear to enthusiasts who want more than the standard options.

Whether you’re a golfer looking for fresh apparel that actually performs or a pro shop/retailer seeking exciting new products, this conversation is packed with inspiration, practical insights, and a whole lot of golf passion.

Key Topics Discussed:

• The birth of Kandy Golf in a home-based workshop in Dartmouth, NS
• Designing golf apparel that combines fashion-forward looks with real performance
• Growing a small Canadian brand into an international player
• Expanding into the Southern States for consistent year-round golf appeal
• Why comfort and unique design matter on (and off) the course
• Opportunities for pro shops and retail stores to partner with Kandy Golf

Guest Bio: Kandace is the Founder and CEO of Kandy Golf, a woman-owned golf apparel brand based in Dartmouth, Nova Scotia, Canada. A dedicated golfer alongside her husband Craig, Kandace designs every piece with the goal of delivering fun, comfortable, and standout golf wear. Since launching in November 2019, Kandy Golf has quickly become recognized for its high-quality, stylish designs that appeal to golfers who want to look as good as they play.

Connect with Kandace & Kandy Golf:

• Website: kandygolf.com
• Instagram: @kandygolf
• Facebook: Kandy Golf

If you’re a pro shop or retail store owner looking to add something fresh, fun, and high-quality to your displays, Kandace is actively seeking new business relationships — especially in the Southern United States. Reach out via the Kandy Golf website to explore partnership opportunities!

Listen Now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts.

Empowering Women Through Golf: Networking, Community, and Luxury Lifestyle with Donna Hoffman, Founder of Women on Course

In this inspiring episode of The Traveling Golf Diva Podcast, Doris Muscarella sits down with Donna Hoffman, a trailblazing thought leader, entrepreneur, and founder of Women on Course.

Donna shares her insights on how women across the country can leverage golf as a vehicle for business, networking, and lifestyle experiences. With her deep expertise in experiential event marketing and motivational leadership, Donna has built a dynamic community of influential women, attracting financial and luxury brand partners along the way.

Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or new to the game, this episode provides valuable lessons on building meaningful connections, growing your personal brand, and combining your passions with purpose.

• How golf can be a strategic tool for business and social networking

• Tips for creating experiential events that inspire and engage

• The power of building a community of like-minded, influential women

• Insights on attracting luxury and financial brand partnerships

• Motivational guidance for women looking to expand their impact through golf

This episode is perfect for women who want to:

• Network with confidence on and off the golf course

• Elevate their personal and professional brand

• Learn from a proven leader in golf, lifestyle, and business

• Get inspired to combine passion with purpose in their careers

Tune in on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favorite platform to hear Donna’s journey and actionable insights that will help you hit the fairway of success in both business and life.

The Traveling Golf Diva with Host Doris Muscarella and Christina Ricci, PGA Professional

Getting More Pars with Christina Ricci – From 5-Year Golfer to Global Coach Phenomenon Guest: Christina Ricci, PGA & LPGA Class A, TPI Level 3 Host: Doris Muscarella

• Doris welcomes listeners and introduces Christina as one of the most beloved and recognizable coaches in women’s golf today

About Our Guest – The Christina Ricci Origin Story

• How a non-athletic adult picked up golf and went from beginner to a 5 handicap in just five years
• The moment she realized teaching was her true calling
• Writing her first book → unexpectedly hitting #1 → launching the More Pars empire
• Becoming PGA & LPGA Class A and TPI Level 3 certified

The More Pars Philosophy

• Why “More Pars” is about so much more than score – it’s about freedom and fun
• The power of immersive, resort-based camps (and why a 3-day experience can change someone’s game forever)
• Who the camps are really for: beginners to single-digit players, men and women

Key Topics & Teaching Goal

1. The biggest myth recreational players believe about swing changes
2. One simple concept that instantly adds distance for 90% of players
3. Why most women (and men) leave 30–50 yards on the table – and how to claim it
4. The “Fitness Friday” approach: simple TPI-based moves anyone can do at home
5. How Christina’s YouTube channel and books make elite instruction accessible to everyone

Life on the Road & Behind the Scenes

• Favorite resort camp destinations and what makes each one special
• Memorable student success stories (the 70-year-old who started hitting driver 200+ yards, etc.)
• Appearing on Golf Channel, Golf Tips magazine, and reaching millions online

Rapid-Fire “More Pars” Lightning Round

• Best drill for the shanks
• One swing thought that cures the slice for good
• Favorite club in the bag right now
• The non-golf activity that improved her own game the most
• What she wishes every new golfer knew on Day 1

What’s Next for Christina & More Pars

• New camps and locations for 2025/2026
• Upcoming books, video series, or surprises
• How listeners can train with Christina (camps, online membership, YouTube, books)

Final Takeaways from Christina Ricci

1. Progress is possible at any age and any starting point – her own journey proves it.
2. Stop overcomplicating: focus on the 2–3 things that move the needle the most.
3. Golf is supposed to be joyful – when you get More Pars, you get more smiles.
4. Invest in yourself: one weekend at a More Pars Camp can save you years of frustration.

Closing

• Doris thanks Christina
• Subscribe, leave a review, share with your golf buddies
• Where to find Christina: → Website: www.morepars.com → YouTube: Christina Ricci – More Pars Golf → Instagram: @morepars

For more information visit our website: www.thetravelinggolfdiva.com or follow us on social media

Sun-Smart Glam on the Greens: Best Skin Protection for Golfers with Sue Kleiner Slutsky of Kinetics Cosmetics

Doris Muscarella welcomes Sue Kleiner Slutsky, the visionary founder of Kinetics Cosmetics, to discuss why skin protection is a game-changer for golfers—especially women who spend hours outdoors teeing off in style. Sue shares her expertise as a makeup artist, skincare developer, and specialist in luxury custom cosmetics. From mineral-based SPF solutions designed for active play to hypoallergenic, high-performance products that keep you looking flawless from tee to 19th hole, this episode blends beauty, sun safety, and the diva lifestyle. Learn how Kinetics Cosmetics offers the ultimate protection against UV rays while delivering luxury for corporate events, brand gifting, private/white label collaborations, and everyday golfers who refuse to compromise on glow or performance.

Guest Bio Sue Kleiner Slutsky is the founder of Kinetics Cosmetics, a luxury beauty brand dedicated to breakthrough, high-end skincare and makeup for the active woman at any stage of life. As a seasoned makeup artist, skincare developer, and private label/white label specialist, Sue creates hypoallergenic, cruelty-free products—including standout mineral SPF formulas perfect for sun-exposed sports like golf. Her brand excels in custom solutions for corporate events, brand gifting, and retail, helping clients look and feel their best while staying protected. Based in Florida, Sue brings her passion for beautiful skin to golfers and divas everywhere.

Key Highlights & Takeaways

• Why golfers need specialized skin protection: The realities of prolonged sun exposure on the course and how it affects skin health and long-term play.
• Kinetics Cosmetics standout solutions: Mineral SPF products that are lightweight, non-greasy, reef-safe, and ideal for active lifestyles—no heavy residue or white cast to ruin your swing or style.
• Beauty meets golf: Tips for maintaining a polished, confident look during rounds, from sweat-proof makeup to hydrating skincare that works under hats, visors, and sunscreen.
• Luxury customization: How Kinetics creates bespoke cosmetics for corporate golf outings, brand partnerships, gifting, and private events—perfect for golf clubs, tournaments, or women's golf groups.
• Empowerment angle: Embracing skincare as self-care for women in golf—feeling radiant, protected, and unstoppable on and off the course.
• Practical diva advice: Sue's go-to routines for pre-round prep, mid-round touch-ups, and post-golf recovery to keep skin glowing through every adventure.

Resources & Links

• Shop Kinetics Cosmetics: kineticscosmetics.com – Explore mineral SPF, skincare, and luxury makeup collections.
• Connect with Sue: Reach out via Kinetics Cosmetics for custom/private label inquiries, brand collaborations, or golf-specific recommendations.
• Follow Doris: @r_muscarella on X | The Traveling Golf Diva on your favorite platforms.
• Visit the podcast: Search "The Traveling Golf Diva" on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you listen.

Protect your skin, elevate your game, and live the diva life! Whether you're hitting the links or planning your next golf getaway, add Kinetics Cosmetics to your bag for unbeatable sun protection and luxury glow.

Subscribe to The Traveling Golf Diva Podcast for more episodes on fashion, wellness, travel, and all things empowering for women in golf. Share your favorite on-course beauty tip with us—tag @r_muscarella! ⛳✨ #TheTravelingGolfDiva #KineticsCosmetics #GolfSkinCare #SunSmartDiva #WomenWhoGolf

Welcome to the very first episode of The Traveling Golf Diva with your host, Doris Muscarella!

In this introductory episode, Doris shares her personal golf journey, her love for travel, and her passion for inspiring women to get out on the golf course and explore the world — one beautiful golf destination at a time.

Whether you’re a seasoned golfer, a beginner thinking about picking up clubs, or someone who loves combining travel with new experiences, this podcast is for you. Doris opens up about why she created The Traveling Golf Diva and what listeners can expect in future episodes: inspiring conversations with incredible women in golf, practical travel tips for golf getaways, fashion and style on the course, rules education, business insights from golf entrepreneurs, and so much more.

Get ready for fun, empowering, and informative conversations that celebrate women in golf, friendship, adventure, and living life to the fullest — both on and off the course.

Key Topics Discussed:

• Doris Muscarella’s personal story and how golf changed her life
• The vision behind launching The Traveling Golf Diva podcast
• Combining two great passions: Golf + Travel
• What to expect in upcoming episodes – amazing guests, golf fashion, rules tips, destination guides, and empowering stories
• Creating a welcoming community for women golfers of all levels
• Why now is the perfect time to start your own golf and travel adventures

Host Bio: Doris Muscarella is the host of The Traveling Golf Diva and a passionate golfer, traveler, and lifestyle enthusiast. With a warm and inviting style, Doris is on a mission to make golf more approachable and fun for women while inspiring listeners to explore incredible golf destinations around the world. From local courses to dream golf trips, she brings her signature energy and curiosity to every conversation.

Connect with The Traveling Golf Diva:

• Instagram: @travelinggolfdiva
• Facebook: The Traveling Golf Diva
• Website: travelinggolfdiva.com

Call to Action: If you love golf, travel, fashion, friendship, and personal growth, hit that subscribe button and join the journey! Share this episode with your golf girlfriends and tag us on social media using #TravelingGolfDiva — let’s build this community together.

Listen Now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts.

Capturing Golf's Magic on Canvas: Cassy Tully, Golf Artist & Philanthropist – Making a Difference One Masterpiece at a Time with Cassy Tully

In this inspiring episode of The Traveling Golf Diva Podcast, host Doris Muscarella sits down with renowned golf artist and philanthropist Cassy Tully. Cassy’s breathtaking artwork celebrates the style, captures the memories, and preserves the legacies of majestic golf courses, prestigious properties, and private patrons.

Using her signature relief-painting technique—blending acrylic gel mediums with actual sand from the courses themselves—Cassy creates dynamic, textured pieces that bring iconic golf landscapes to life with depth and drama.

Highlights from the conversation include:

• Cassy’s standout contributions to major championships: She created official artwork for the 2020 Ryder Cup at Whistling Straits in Kohler, Wisconsin (postponed to 2021 due to COVID), featuring the vibrant galleries, first tee energy, and signature holes overlooking Lake Michigan.
• Her work for the 2015 PGA Championship, also at Whistling Straits, including a memorable painting of Hole 7.
• Philanthropic passion: Cassy has donated original paintings to charity events and causes, notably the 2015 Palmer Cup at Rich Harvest Farms—an original piece signed by the legendary Arnold Palmer himself, benefiting the Arnold Palmer Foundation. She’s also supported organizations like the Evans Scholars Foundation, PGA REACH, USGA, Western Golf Association, and more through auctioned artworks and partnerships.
• The “wow” factor of her custom commissions, artist-in-residence experiences, and collaborations with top brands like XXIO at marquee venues such as Kiawah Island, Pebble Beach, and beyond.

Whether you're a golfer who loves the visual storytelling of the game or someone inspired by art that gives back, Cassy shares her journey—from her Wisconsin roots to her current studio near Pinehurst, North Carolina—and how she’s been “making a difference one masterpiece at a time” for over 17 years.

Key Takeaways:

• Discover how Cassy incorporates real course elements (like sand) into her relief-style paintings for an authentic, tactile feel.
• Hear stories behind high-profile pieces for the Ryder Cup, PGA Championship, and charity auctions.
• Learn about the intersection of golf, art, and philanthropy—and why preserving golf’s legacies through fine art matters.

Guest Bio: Cassy Tully is a celebrated golf artist and philanthropist whose work has been trusted by the PGA of America, USGA, Arnold Palmer Foundation, and iconic courses worldwide. Visit her at www.cassytully.com, follow on Instagram @cassytullyart, or connect via info@cassytully.com.

Love this episode? Subscribe to The Traveling Golf Diva Podcast for more golf travel adventures, insider stories, and inspiring guests. Share with your golf-loving friends, leave a review, and tag us with your favorite golf art moment.

Mastering Mobility for Lifelong Golf + Luxury Travel Secrets with Lauren McLaughlin

Doris Muscarella welcomes co-host and special focus guest Lauren McLaughlin, founder of SwingAxis™ Club Performance Systems and luxury golf travel advisor. Together, they unpack how improving mobility and flexibility transforms your game, prevents injuries, and keeps you playing stronger for years—while pairing it with unforgettable golf travel experiences around the world. From on-course durability tips to curated luxury escapes, this episode inspires golfers to move better, travel smarter, and live the diva lifestyle.

Guest Bio Lauren McLaughlin helps golfers of all levels improve mobility, flexibility, and long-term durability through her SwingAxis™ system. As a luxury travel advisor, she designs unique golf-focused experiences and retreats (including international adventures like Italy).

Key Highlights & Takeaways

• Why traditional golf fitness falls short—and how targeted mobility work changes everything.
• Simple, effective SwingAxis™ routines to unlock better swings, reduce pain, and add yards.
• Lauren's top picks for golf travel: luxury resorts, unique courses, and wellness-integrated trips.
• The intersection of movement, mindset, and adventure—golf as a lifelong passion.
• Empowering advice for women golfers: embrace style, strength, and global exploration.

Resources & Links

• SwingAxis™ Club Performance Systems – Connect with Lauren for personalized programs.
• Luxury golf travel advising – Reach out via Doris or Lauren for custom itineraries.
• Follow the podcast: @r_muscarella | Search "The Traveling Golf Diva" on your platform. Ready to swing smoother, travel farther, and play longer? Subscribe to The Traveling Golf Diva Podcast today. Share your golf travel stories with us—tag @r_muscarella. #TheTravelingGolfDiva #SwingAxis #GolfMobility #LuxuryGolfTravel