In the world of golf, where precision meets passion, few voices rang as warm and welcoming as Cody “Beef” Franke’s. The Barstool Sports personality, known for his infectious chuckle and endless tips for everyday golfers, left an indelible mark on fans and friends alike. Tragically, Cody passed away at just 31 due to a sudden medical issue, but his legacy as a PGA pro turned content creator endures. If you’re searching for a Cody Beef Franke biography, this piece dives into his remarkable journey—from Chicago roots to Barstool stardom—celebrating the man who made the fairway feel like home.
Table of Contents
Early Life and Roots in Chicago
Born and raised in the bustling streets of Chicago, Cody Beef Franke grew up with a swing in his step that hinted at the golfer he’d become. Picture a kid from the Windy City, trading concrete playgrounds for local courses, where the crisp Midwest air fueled his love for the game. From a young age, Cody was drawn to golf’s blend of strategy and serenity, often sneaking out to public links with his family. Those early days weren’t glamorous—no fancy academies or junior tours—but they built the grounded, relatable guy we all came to adore.
By his teens, Cody was honing his skills at neighborhood clubs, dreaming big while keeping it real. He wasn’t the prodigy type; he was the persistent one, grinding through windy rounds and rainy practices. This Chicago grit shaped his philosophy: Golf isn’t about perfection; it’s about progress. Friends from back home remember him as the buddy who’d lend you his best club without a second thought, always with that signature hat-tip and a grin. Cody’s early life taught him humility, a trait that shone through every swing tip he shared later on. It’s no wonder he connected so deeply with “common golfers”—he’d been one himself.
PGA Professional Career: From Desert Fairways to Wisconsin Greens
Transitioning from amateur enthusiast to PGA professional, Cody Beef Franke’s career took flight in his early 20s. He dove headfirst into the pro circuit, landing his first big gig at Desert Willow Golf Resort in Palm Desert, California. There, under the scorching desert sun, Cody spent years as a PGA of America Golf Professional, teaching lessons that turned frustrated hackers into confident players. His approach? Gentle guidance with a side of humor—think “easy does it” on that tricky bunker shot.
Word spread fast about this Chicago kid with the velvet voice and unshakeable patience. Cody moved on to Thornberry Creek in Oneida, Wisconsin, where he continued to build his reputation. At Thornberry, he wasn’t just an instructor; he was a mentor, hosting clinics that packed the range with locals eager for his no-BS advice. “Know when to attack and when to put on the brakes,” he’d say in one of his signature reels, a mantra pulled straight from those California dunes and Wisconsin woods.
Over several years in the PGA, Cody racked up a resume full of quiet triumphs: improved handicaps for hundreds of students, glowing reviews from club members, and a growing online following. He shared quick Instagram clips—43,000 strong by the end—demystifying the swing for weekend warriors. It was here that “Beef” earned his nickname, a playful nod to his sturdy build and beefy drives. Cody’s pro days weren’t about trophies; they were about community, fostering that infectious joy he found on the course. Little did he know, this foundation would propel him to the bright lights of Barstool Sports.
Rise to Fame with Barstool Sports and Fore Play Podcast
In early 2024, Cody Beef Franke traded the teaching tee for the podcast mic, joining Barstool Sports as the Head Golf Professional for the wildly popular Fore Play podcast. It was a match made in golf heaven—Barstool’s irreverent vibe met Cody’s class-act charm, and boom: instant chemistry. Fans of the show, already hooked on hosts like Trevor McKee and Dan “Big Cat” Katz, couldn’t get enough of Beef’s breakdowns. He’d chuckle through swing flaws, drop gems like “grip it and rip it, but not too hard,” and make pros sound approachable.
Cody quickly became the podcast’s secret sauce, blending expertise with everyday relatability. His segments on Fore Play exploded online, drawing in casual fans who saw golf as intimidating. Barstool founder Dave Portnoy called him “the nicest, most genuine person,” a sentiment echoed across the Stoolies community. Cody’s hat-tipping habit—doffing his cap to greet fans at events—became legendary, a simple gesture symbolizing his respect for the game and its people.
Beyond the pod, Cody’s content creation flourished. Instagram Reels of slow-motion swings and “what not to do” bloopers amassed views, turning him into a go-to golf influencer. He joined Barstool amid a boom in sports media, but stood out for his wholesomeness—no hot takes, just heartfelt helps. By 2025, Beef was a staple, collaborating on live events and even teasing bigger projects. His rise wasn’t flashy; it was earned, one genuine laugh at a time.
Legacy and Tributes: The Nicest Guy on the Course
Cody Beef Franke’s impact ripples far beyond the fairway. When news broke of his passing on October 27, 2025, the golf world paused. Attending a wedding in the Dominican Republic, he suffered a sudden medical issue that stole him away too soon. Barstool’s statement captured it perfectly: “Cody made so many people laugh, smile, and simply better.” Tributes poured in—from Portnoy’s raw grief on X to Thornberry Creek’s heartfelt post: “His love for the game was infectious.”
Colleagues like David Woods remembered a “great guy” from desert days, while fans shared stories of life-changing lessons. Cody’s legacy? Democratizing golf, proving it’s for everyone with a good heart. He leaves behind a family in mourning, a Barstool crew forever changed, and a digital library of tips that continue to inspire. We’ll all be tipping our hats to Beef—today and every day.
Conclusion
Cody Beef Franke’s biography is more than a timeline; it’s a testament to living with kindness and passion. At 31, he packed a lifetime of laughs, lessons, and love into the game he adored. Though his sudden departure leaves a void, his spirit swings on through every improved putt and shared story. Rest easy, Beef—you made golf, and us, better.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Who was Cody Beef Franke?
Cody “Beef” Franke was a beloved PGA professional golfer, content creator, and Barstool Sports personality known for his work on the Fore Play podcast. Hailing from Chicago, he shared relatable golf tips that resonated with fans worldwide.
What was Cody Beef Franke’s role at Barstool Sports?
As Head Golf Professional for the Fore Play podcast, Cody provided expert breakdowns, swing advice, and humorous insights, quickly becoming a fan favorite for his warm, approachable style since joining in early 2024.
How did Cody Beef Franke die?
Cody passed away at 31 from a sudden medical issue while attending a wedding in the Dominican Republic over the weekend of October 25-26, 2025, as announced by Barstool on October 27.
What is Cody Beef Franke’s lasting legacy?
Cody’s legacy lies in his genuine kindness and dedication to making golf accessible and fun. Remembered as “the nicest guy,” his tips and hat-tipping charm continue to inspire the community he cherished.