Finally got to listen to this edition. I always love the podcast and could listen for hours, especially when focusing on architecture.
That said, I can't help to find it discouraging to hear Ran, who is fortunate enough to live an area with some of the best courses in the country, say he needs to take a 6 hour flight to UK to play "proper golf". In addition, I believe it was Ran who went on to indicate that sand is essential for good architecture.
While on the surface, I certainly can understand the position and I'm sure it is partially off the cuff commentary that may be worded differently with deliberation, but it came across to me as "why bother if you can't both live in the best area for golf, and afford the greatest courses", which certainly goes against trying to grow the game. This isn't to say we shouldn't state the preference for the better architecture, and promote the understanding of why sand soil makes for the best golf. That said, I think architecture can still provide interesting and enjoyable golf on less desirable soils and even with some styles that aren't entirely "proper".
Overall, a great listen and I agree with much of the commentary, I just think in some cases perfect can be the enemy of good when the message is you can't play proper golf in the Pinehurst/Mid-Pines area or that sandy soil is essential for the game. I'd prefer to continue the movement for "better" in the steps we can.