The Traveling Golf Diva Podcast with Doris Muscarella

Golf, Growth & Genuine Connection: Building Trust-Based Relationships with Debbie O’Connell

GOLF, GROWTH & GENUINE CONNECTION: BUILDING TRUST-BASED RELATIONSHIPS WITH DEBBIE O’CONNELL
In this inspiring episode of The Traveling Golf Diva, host Doris Muscarella sits down with renowned golf professional, coach, and author Debbie O’Connell to explore how golf can be a powerful tool for building authentic, trust-based relationships that naturally lead to business growth.
Debbie shares her unique philosophy on leveraging the game of golf to connect with executives, entrepreneurs, and decision-makers—without the pressure of traditional selling. Drawing from her book, Golf Positive! Live Positive! Lessons in Golf and Life, she reveals how mindset, confidence, and positivity both on and off the course can transform not only your game, but your life and business.
If you’ve ever felt uncomfortable “selling” or chasing clients, this episode will show you a refreshing, relationship-first approach that aligns success with authenticity.
What You’ll Learn
How to use golf as a platform to build meaningful business relationships
Why trust—not transactions—is the key to sustainable revenue growth
Strategies to connect with high-level decision-makers naturally
How to eliminate the “salesy” feeling and attract opportunities with ease
The power of mindset and positivity in both golf and life
Practical ways to show up confidently on and off the course
Key Takeaways
Golf is more than a sport—it’s a relationship-building experience
Authentic connections lead to long-term business success
Confidence grows when you focus on connection, not performance perfection
Positivity is a competitive advantage in business and life
You don’t need to chase clients when you cultivate genuine relationships
Featured Book
Golf Positive! Live Positive! Lessons in Golf and Life by Debbie O’Connell
Who This Episode Is For
Women in business and executive leadership
Entrepreneurs looking to grow their network authentically
Golfers who want to leverage the game for business success
Anyone seeking more confidence, connection, and purpose in their professional journey
"When you focus on building relationships instead of closing deals, success becomes a natural byproduct." – Debbie O’Connell
Love this episode? Subscribe to The Traveling Golf Diva Podcast, share it with a fellow Golf Diva, and start building your network one authentic connection at a time—on and off the course.
 

Tuscan Elegance Meets the Fairway: Luxury Golf Style with Giulia Bandini of Maison Antinolfi

Tuscan Elegance Meets the Fairway: Luxury Golf Style with Giulia Bandini of Maison Antinolfi
In this elegant episode of The Traveling Golf Diva, Doris Muscarella welcomes Giulia Bandini, International Sales Representative for the USA market at Maison Antinolfi. From the heart of Florence, Giulia shares how centuries-old Tuscan craftsmanship is redefining luxury golf apparel, accessories, and bags for the modern woman golfer.
Discover quiet luxury that performs on the course and shines off it — where Italian heritage meets functional golf style.
Giulia, welcome to The Traveling Golf Diva! As the International Sales Representative for the USA market at Maison Antinolfi, tell our listeners a bit about your role and journey — how did you come to represent this exquisite Tuscan/Florentine brand in the American golf world?
The Brand & Tuscan/Florentine Craftsmanship
Maison Antinolfi captures “Golf in Italian Elegance” perfectly — refined, understated, and timeless. What inspired the brand to blend centuries-old Florentine craftsmanship with the game of golf?
Everything is 100% Made in Florence by master artisans using the finest leathers, cashmere, technical fabrics, and generational techniques. Can you describe the creation process behind one of your signature golf bags or apparel pieces?
What makes that authentic “Made in Italy” quality so special compared to mass-produced golf gear?
Performance & Style on the Course
Your collection emphasizes quiet luxury: premium materials, perfect proportions, and exceptional durability. How do these pieces perform during a full round — breathable, comfortable, and stylish enough for the clubhouse afterward?
For our female listeners, what standout items from the women’s collection would you recommend for a golfer who wants to feel elegant and confident from the first tee to the 19th hole?
Appeal to USA Golfers & Traveling Divas
For Traveling Golf Divas who love destination golf, how can Maison Antinolfi pieces elevate a golf trip — from a bespoke bag for Tuscany to versatile apparel for travel?
Golf Lifestyle, Tuscany & Empowerment
Tuscany is a dream golf destination. How do the brand’s Tuscan roots influence its aesthetic, and would you recommend pairing Maison Antinolfi gear with a golf trip to Florence or the Tuscan countryside?
Where to Find Maison Antinolfi
Website: maisonantinolfi.com
Instagram: @maisonantinolfi
Listen Now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or your favorite podcast platform.
 

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

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

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

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.
🎯 Key Takeaways
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
📌 Why Listen
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
🎧 Listen Now
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.

Golf is supposed to be joyful – when you get More Pars, you get more smiles - Christina Ricci! A PGA & LPGA Class-A

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
The biggest myth recreational players believe about swing changes
One simple concept that instantly adds distance for 90% of players
Why most women (and men) leave 30–50 yards on the table – and how to claim it
The “Fitness Friday” approach: simple TPI-based moves anyone can do at home
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
Progress is possible at any age and any starting point – her own journey proves it.
Stop overcomplicating: focus on the 2–3 things that move the needle the most.
Golf is supposed to be joyful – when you get More Pars, you get more smiles.
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

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 Traveling Golf Diva – Let’s Hit the Road and the Fairways! (Introduction Episode)

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

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

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