If you’ve ever scrolled through Insta and wondered how someone could be so effortlessly epically cool, it’s likely because you stumbled upon @shank.haney, aka Liz Breed, aka the supreme master at combining golf, humor, Salomon kicks and the vaguely unexpected in a social media experience that’s as bold as it is delightful.
Channeling her love of group lessons, reimagining golf culture moments and posting witty observations on the mundane, she’s bringing fresh and fearless energy to feeds everywhere. But behind all the shots and all the memes is a genuine creative spark and deep-rooted passion for the game.
Q&A with golf instructor and online celeb Liz Breed
What’s a lesson you had to unlearn?
The biggest lesson I’ve had to unlearn is that my golf performance doesn’t dictate who I am as a person. Letting go of that idea has (ironically) made me better. I’ve been playing the best golf I have in years.
If you could see the golf course through anyone’s eyes for just a day, whose would you choose?
My dog’s. The space, the smells, the geese. It would be thrilling.
What has been your most significant act of rebellion in golf?
Just being myself. I try not to separate who I am on and off the course, and I think I’ve found a nice balance. It’s amazing what a few tattoos and some armpit hair will do to your inner rebel.
What are you currently overspending on?
CANDLES. No one needs a $40 candle...except me.
Do you think social media is changing the way people experience and approach the game?
Of course. And my pros and cons list perfectly aligns with that. I love that the game is more visible and reaches a wider audience. I don’t love that we’ve gravitated away from performance golf. I don’t know if I totally believe in playing golf for fun.
Tell us about a time when a follower or fan shared a story that really resonated with you or made you feel proud of the impact you have?
Just recently a player was recognized for being a student of mine. He was at his local golf course, and someone asked if he was one of my students. Crazy! Later that week, he broke his low round.
What does happiness in golf look like?
Happiness in golf doesn’t look a whole lot different from what I’m doing. I love helping people in their golf journey. It’s a very healing process for me. It also looks like playing every day in a new country with friends and a beer.
What’s the last thing you saw that made an impression on you?
I’m always so impressed with what my students can accomplish. I applaud their willingness to change and their vulnerability. Golf is such a sacred and precious thing—it feels good when people get past their own roadblocks in the game.
Follow Liz @shank.haney.
