• Thanksgiving Reflections: Gratitude, Golf, and Family Traditions
    Nov 22 2024

    Sign up for Par 3 Thursdays. A weekly newsletter sharing three great things to check out in golf. - https://bestball.substack.com

    Join us for a heartfelt, gratitude-filled Thanksgiving special on this week's episode of the Caddie Tales Podcast!

    Mark opens up about spending Thanksgiving with his in-laws, anticipating the Detroit Lions game, and precious moments with his college-aged kids at home. Meanwhile, Nick shares his excitement for having a paid holiday—a rare treat in his career as a caddie.

    Together, Mark and Nick explore the concept of "heavy baggage" and how to help lighten others' loads during the holiday season. They prove that caddying is more than just carrying golf bags. With stories of supportive gestures and life lessons on empathy, this episode is a powerful reminder of the importance of hope, healing, and gratitude.

    We'll also reflect on the joy and camaraderie we experience on the golf course, from memorable loops with clients to the professional challenges faced by player assistants, marshals, and other unsung heroes in the industry.

    Get ready to embrace gratitude, reconnect with meaningful memories, and celebrate the true spirit of Thanksgiving with your favorite caddy duo.

    Links:
    •https://twitter.com/caddietales
    •https://bestball.com/collections/caddie-tales-podcast
    •https://BestBall.com
    •https://linktr.ee/BestBall

    Friends of BestBall:
    •Holderness & Bourne - Enter "BESTBALL" for complimentary shipping when your order - https://hbgolf.com
    •Western Birch Golf Co. - Enter "BESTBALL" in the shipping cart for a free gift with your order - https://westernbirch.com
    •Atomic Golf - Custom Ball Markers, Divot Repair Tools, & more - https://atomicgolf.club

    Interested in becoming a sponsor of the Caddie Tales Podcast? Email info@bestball.com.

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    40 mins
  • The Iconic Golf Shots & Holes at the Straits
    Nov 15 2024

    Sign up for Par 3 Thursdays. A weekly newsletter sharing three great things to check out in golf. - https://bestball.substack.com

    This week, join Nick and Mark as they talk about some of the most infamous shots at one of the best courses in the world. We're spotlighting Bryson DeChambeau's jaw-dropping performance at the Ryder Cup, specifically his monstrous tee shot on hole five—a 603-yard par-5—that landed just 70 yards from the pin. Can you imagine carrying over water and bunkers with such precision? We'll break down the physical feasibility and risk versus reward of such daring plays.

    But that's not all! We discuss memorable moments at Whistling Straits, reminisce about iconic shots from Jordan Spieth, and revisit John Daly's infamous frustration on the par-three seventh hole. Plus, you'll hear about the legendary 18th-hole incident involving Dustin Johnson and the much-debated "waste bunker" rules.

    Don't miss this week's episode of The Caddie Tales Podcast!

    Links:
    •https://twitter.com/caddietales
    •https://bestball.com/collections/caddie-tales-podcast
    •https://BestBall.com
    •https://linktr.ee/BestBall

    Friends of BestBall:
    •Holderness & Bourne - Enter "BESTBALL" for complimentary shipping when your order - https://hbgolf.com
    •Western Birch Golf Co. - Enter "BESTBALL" in the shipping cart for a free gift with your order - https://westernbirch.com
    •Atomic Golf - Custom Ball Markers, Divot Repair Tools, & more - https://atomicgolf.club

    Interested in becoming a sponsor of the Caddie Tales Podcast? Email info@bestball.com.

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    45 mins
  • Caddie Tales for President...of Golf - Faster Rounds, Lighter Bags, & More Fun!
    Nov 8 2024

    Sign up for Par 3 Thursdays. A weekly newsletter sharing three great things to check out in golf. - https://bestball.substack.com

    Ready to dive into the juiciest slices of the golfing world? Join us for an unforgettable episode of Caddie Tales, where Mark and Nick explore the fascinating intersection of golf and life through their unique lens.

    In this episode, we tee off with insightful conversations and a hearty dose of humor. Nick admits to sometimes giving questionable advice but confesses to quickly catching his mistakes. This sparks a whimsical debate, leading Mark to humorously campaign for outlawing overused golfing phrases like, "I didn't come all this way to lay up."

    We also discuss players' on-course decisions and the emotional maturity involved in choosing between laying up or taking that high-risk shot. Have you ever wondered about golfing in the rain or braving the cold? We’ve got you covered! Mark and Nick have a fun and flexible climate policy for golfers—think "snow checks" and no scoring when the wind is above 30 mph.

    But that's not all! In the spirit of election day, Mark formalizes his golf leadership dream team, appointing Nick as his "vice president" and cleverly aligning golf club roles with political offices. From handling heavy bags to managing swamped greens, discover how running a golf club isn’t all that different from running a nation. Plus, get our take on quirky golf rules and etiquette that should change, like imposing classes for slow players or nixing 14-slot bags for good.

    Finally, we wrap up with “Heavy Baggage," a heartwarming new segment about supporting others. Listen as Nick shares a Halloween costume story and Mark recounts a moment of encouragement, reminding us that the greens are more than just a place to play—they’re a community.

    So grab your preferred beverage, settle into your favorite chair, and let’s hit the fairways with this insightful, laughter-filled episode of Caddie Tales. The golf course awaits!

    Links:
    •https://twitter.com/caddietales
    •https://bestball.com/collections/caddie-tales-podcast
    •https://BestBall.com
    •https://linktr.ee/BestBall

    Friends of BestBall:
    •Holderness & Bourne - Enter "BESTBALL" for complimentary shipping when your order - https://hbgolf.com
    •Western Birch Golf Co. - Enter "BESTBALL" in the shipping cart for a free gift with your order - https://westernbirch.com
    •Atomic Golf - Custom Ball Markers, Divot Repair Tools, & more - https://atomicgolf.club

    Interested in becoming a sponsor of the Caddie Tales Podcast? Email info@bestball.com.

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    42 mins
  • The Caddie Off-Season Hustle: Balancing Multiple Jobs and Future Dreams
    Nov 1 2024

    Sign up for Par 3 Thursdays. A weekly newsletter sharing three great things to check out in golf. - https://bestball.substack.com

    Welcome to the off-season for our favorite caddies!

    In this episode, Mark and Nick explore the perceptions of caddies as nomads, the personal lifestyles tied to the profession, and Nick's ambitious plans to study sports psychology to improve mental discipline on the course. They also share some light-hearted stories about reading habits and the significance of confident appearances for caddies.

    In this episode, Mark candidly shares his goals for physical health, diving into a new, healthier lifestyle to keep caddying for seasons to come. Nick underscores the importance of managing physical burdens, leading to the introduction of our new segment, "Heavy Baggage," which parallels easing physical burdens in golf to lightening emotional weights in life.

    We also delve into off-season ventures, Mark’s previous stint at a cheese factory, Nick juggling two jobs, and the logistical and financial challenges caddies face when seeking winter work in warmer climates. Plus, get inspired by tales of caddies who find freedom and happiness in a nomadic lifestyle and those who treat short-term opportunities as paid vacations.

    Join us as we reflect on the last loops of the season, revel in the cyclical nature of the caddy rhythm, and set new ambitions for staying active and engaged during the off-season. With plans for exciting future episodes featuring other caddies and golf industry insiders, you don’t want to miss this enriching episode of CaddieTales, where every swing mirrors a life's lesson.

    Links:
    •https://twitter.com/caddietales
    •https://bestball.com/collections/caddie-tales-podcast
    •https://BestBall.com
    •https://linktr.ee/BestBall

    Friends of BestBall:
    •Holderness & Bourne - Enter "BESTBALL" for complimentary shipping when your order - https://hbgolf.com
    •Western Birch Golf Co. - Enter "BESTBALL" in the shipping cart for a free gift with your order - https://westernbirch.com
    •Atomic Golf - Custom Ball Markers, Divot Repair Tools, & more - https://atomicgolf.club

    Interested in becoming a sponsor of the Caddie Tales Podcast? Email info@bestball.com.

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    37 mins
  • That's a Wrap! More End-of-the-Season Caddie Reflections
    Oct 25 2024

    Sign up for Par 3 Thursdays. A weekly newsletter sharing three great things to check out in golf. - https://bestball.substack.com

    Join Mark & Nick for an all-new episode of the Caddie Tales Podcast as they reflect on the 2024 season as it comes to a close.

    Links:
    •https://twitter.com/caddietales
    •https://bestball.com/collections/caddie-tales-podcast
    •https://BestBall.com
    •https://linktr.ee/BestBall

    Sponsors:
    •Holderness & Bourne - Enter "BESTBALL" for complimentary shipping when your order - https://hbgolf.com
    •Western Birch Golf Co. - Enter "BESTBALL" in the shipping cart for a free gift with your order - https://westernbirch.com

    Interested in becoming a sponsor of the Caddie Tales Podcast? Email info@bestball.com.

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    33 mins
  • Caddying for Legends & Memorable Shots: Highlights of an Unforgettable Golf Season
    Oct 18 2024

    Sign up for Par 3 Thursdays. A weekly newsletter sharing three great things to check out in golf. - https://bestball.substack.com

    Grab your coffee and settle in for a reflective journey through one of the most unforgettable and challenging golf seasons we've ever experienced. In this episode of the Caddie Tales Podcast, Mark and Nick delve deep into the highs and lows of their caddying adventures for the past year.

    Mark kicks things off with heartfelt reflections on the season's challenging performances, highlighting the impact of weather and the inexperience of some golfers. But it's not all gloom—Mark shares his awe-inspiring stories of caddying for local legend Sam Decker, including the concerning wrist injury that jeopardized Sam's career.

    We explore the colorful cast of characters Mark and Nick encountered, from financial gurus with a knack for humor to collegiate athletes who skillfully navigated challenging conditions. Nick chimes in with tales of caddying for remarkable clients, including a notable Canadian swimmer and some pleasant hockey players.

    This episode isn't just about the sport; it's about the people and experiences that make each round memorable. You'll laugh at the jokes, marvel at the long drives, and feel a sense of camaraderie as the hosts recount their shared moments of humor during arduous loops.

    We also touch on the mundane and the magical—Mark's heartfelt appreciation of a season, despite rain-soaked rounds and unmet expectations, to Nick's joyful recount of caddying for a heartwarming father-and-son duo. And let’s not forget the awe-inspiring shots that shattered expectations, like a three-wood from a bunker, and the rise of golf influencers.

    So, whether you're a seasoned golfer or just love a good story, tune in and let Nick and Mark guide you through another engaging episode of "Caddy Tales."

    Links:
    •https://twitter.com/caddietales
    •https://bestball.com/collections/caddie-tales-podcast
    •https://BestBall.com
    •https://linktr.ee/BestBall

    Sponsors:
    •Holderness & Bourne - Enter "BESTBALL" for complimentary shipping when your order - https://hbgolf.com
    •Western Birch Golf Co. - Enter "BESTBALL" in the shipping cart for a free gift with your order - https://westernbirch.com

    Interested in becoming a sponsor of the Caddie Tales Podcast? Email info@bestball.com.

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    45 mins
  • Off-Season Goals for Golfers and Caddies
    Oct 11 2024

    Sign up for Par 3 Thursdays. A weekly newsletter sharing three great things to check out in golf. - https://bestball.substack.com

    In this week’s episode, Mark & Nick explore the intricate world of caddying and personal growth within the game of golf. Nick shares his journey towards becoming a more personable caddie and highlights his strategies for better communication with players. Meanwhile, Mark regales us with a gripping account of carrying a 70-80-pound golf bag in exceptionally windy conditions, reflecting on the hurdles and triumphs of that experience.

    We don't just stop at the tales—Mark and Nick dive deep into practical advice for golfers, focusing on understanding club distances and the importance of a consistent approach. They discuss the challenges of bunker play, the value of a conservative approach on the course, and the significance of the mental game in golf. Expect candid discussions on managing player moods, the role of a caddie in boosting morale, and the intersection of personal health and professional demands.

    Listeners are in for a treat with humorous anecdotes, inspiring stories, and insightful tips to improve their game during the off-season. Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or a weekend warrior, this episode offers something valuable for everyone.

    So, lace up your golf shoes, grab your favorite club, and join us for another engaging episode of Caddie Tales!

    Links:
    •https://twitter.com/caddietales
    •https://bestball.com/collections/caddie-tales-podcast
    •https://BestBall.com
    •https://linktr.ee/BestBall

    Sponsors:
    •Holderness & Bourne - Enter "BESTBALL" for complimentary shipping when your order - https://hbgolf.com
    •Western Birch Golf Co. - Enter "BESTBALL" in the shipping cart for a free gift with your order - https://westernbirch.com

    Interested in becoming a sponsor of the Caddie Tales Podcast? Email info@bestball.com.

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    41 mins
  • Planning for Next Year's Golf Trip
    Oct 4 2024

    Sign up for Par 3 Thursdays. A weekly newsletter sharing three great things to check out in golf. - https://bestball.substack.com

    Links:
    •https://twitter.com/caddietales
    •https://bestball.com/collections/caddie-tales-podcast
    •https://BestBall.com
    •https://linktr.ee/BestBall

    Sponsors:
    •Holderness & Bourne - Enter "BESTBALL" for complimentary shipping when your order - https://hbgolf.com
    •Western Birch Golf Co. - Enter "BESTBALL" in the shipping cart for a free gift with your order - https://westernbirch.com

    Interested in becoming a sponsor of the Caddie Tales Podcast? Email info@bestball.com.

    Show more Show less
    40 mins