Caddie Tales Podcast: Lessons from the Loop on Golf & Life

Welcome back to Caddie Tales! In this episode, Mark and Nick kick off a brand-new caddie season, sharing practical advice and insider tips for anyone planning a trip to a world-renowned golf destination. From how to structure the perfect golf getaway (Mark's opinion: play the hardest course first!) to navigating the unpredictable spring weather, they cover it all. The guys offer candid reflections on the life of a caddie—the excitement of opening day, the exhaustion of marathon golf trips, the art of sizing up a group at bag drop, and the subtle etiquette moments that define a great round.Expect plenty of laughs as Mark and Nick swap stories about first-tee jitters, memorable loops, and the unexpected challenges caddies face—from soaking wet bags to marathon walks into the wind. They’ll also dish out invaluable advice for getting the most out of your caddy, maximizing your experience on and off the course, and keeping your head in the game (especially when the scorecard doesn’t go as planned).Whether you’re a seasoned golfer, a caddie, or someone who loves the intersection of the human spirit and the game of golf, this episode serves up wisdom, humor, and heartfelt moments from both sides of the bag. Let’s tee it up for another season—there’s always a next shot.Sign up for Par 3 Thursdays. A weekly newsletter sharing three great things to check out in golf. - https://bestball.substack.comLinks:•https://twitter.com/caddietales•https://bestball.com/collections/caddie-tales-podcast•https://BestBall.com•https://linktr.ee/BestBallFriends of BestBall:•Zero Restriction - https://www.zerorestriction.com - Enter "BESTBALL20" for 20% off your order•Western Birch Golf Co. - Enter "BESTBALL" in the shipping cart for a free gift with your order - https://westernbirch.comInterested in sponsoring the Caddie Tales Podcast? Email info@bestball.com. The Caddie Tales Podcast is a member of the BestBall podcast family.

Welcome back to another episode of the Caddie Tales Podcast! In this week’s show, Mark and Nick gear up for a brand-new caddie season. The excitement is palpable as they swap stories about battling brutal spring winds, the rhythm of returning to the course after an off-season, and how caddying mirrors the anticipation and nerves of opening night in the theatre. Nick, now a seasoned caddy and trainer, shares insights from working with rookies and reveals the most common early hurdles for new loopers.Together, Mark and Nick set ambitious goals—and a few lighthearted wagers—for loops walked, bags of beef jerky devoured, rain days survived, and even how many times they get hit by stray golf balls. The episode is full of playful banter, honest reflections about the challenges of the job, and gratitude for the camaraderie that brings everyone back to the caddie shack each spring. Whether you’re in it for the golf wisdom, the behind-the-scenes caddie life, or just to find out which snack reigns supreme on the course, this episode is packed with humor, heart, and insights about golf and life. So grab your Zero Restriction rain gear and get ready for another season of stories from the fairways—because, as Mark and Nick remind us, there’s always a next shot and endless opportunities ahead.Sign up for Par 3 Thursdays. A weekly newsletter sharing three great things to check out in golf. - https://bestball.substack.comLinks:•https://twitter.com/caddietales•https://bestball.com/collections/caddie-tales-podcast•https://BestBall.com•https://linktr.ee/BestBallFriends of BestBall:•Zero Restriction - https://www.zerorestriction.com - Enter "BESTBALL20" for 20% off your order•Western Birch Golf Co. - Enter "BESTBALL" in the shipping cart for a free gift with your order - https://westernbirch.comInterested in sponsoring the Caddie Tales Podcast? Email info@bestball.com. The Caddie Tales Podcast is a member of the BestBall podcast family.

In this episode of Caddie Tales, Mark and Nick dive into the unique world of golf traditions, comparing the time-honored customs of the Masters tournament to those found on golf courses everywhere. They explore the quirks and revered rituals like the infamous pimento cheese sandwich, the cherished Champions Dinner, and the famous par three contest. They also touch on anticipation in the golfing world, share insights into their personal lives, including Mark's work at a sober house, and discuss how these experiences shape their perspectives on serving and helping others. With Masters weekend excitement in the air, tune in for a fascinating intersection of golf history and personal tales from the course.Sign up for Par 3 Thursdays. A weekly newsletter sharing three great things to check out in golf. - https://bestball.substack.comLinks:•https://twitter.com/caddietales•https://bestball.com/collections/caddie-tales-podcast•https://BestBall.com•https://linktr.ee/BestBallFriends of BestBall:•Zero Restriction - https://www.zerorestriction.com - Enter "BESTBALL20" for 20% off your order•Western Birch Golf Co. - Enter "BESTBALL" in the shipping cart for a free gift with your order - https://westernbirch.comInterested in sponsoring the Caddie Tales Podcast? Email info@bestball.com. The Caddie Tales Podcast is a member of the BestBall podcast family.

Welcome to another exciting episode of Caddie Tales! In today's episode, Mark and Nick dive into the world of product endorsements, exploring the fun and intriguing idea of caddies as spokespeople for various brands. As they navigate the stunning intersection of golf and life, Mark and Nick ponder which products would suit their caddie lifestyle best, from rain gear and energy drinks to golf bags and even cold tubs. They discuss the possibilities and humor of NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) deals and which brands caddies might uniquely represent. Join us as we venture into a discussion filled with laughter, insight, and the ever-present hope and opportunity that comes with each new shot in the game of golf. Sign up for Par 3 Thursdays. A weekly newsletter sharing three great things to check out in golf. - https://bestball.substack.comLinks:•https://twitter.com/caddietales•https://bestball.com/collections/caddie-tales-podcast•https://BestBall.com•https://linktr.ee/BestBallFriends of BestBall:•Zero Restriction - https://www.zerorestriction.com - Enter "BESTBALL20" for 20% off your order•Western Birch Golf Co. - Enter "BESTBALL" in the shipping cart for a free gift with your order - https://westernbirch.comInterested in sponsoring the Caddie Tales Podcast? Email info@bestball.com. The Caddie Tales Podcast is a member of the BestBall podcast family.

In this episode of Caddie Tales, Mark and Nick are joined by special guest Matt, a local teacher who moonlights on the grounds crew at one of the beautiful golf courses in the Kohler operation. They explore the intriguing world of golf course management and the unsung heroes behind the pristine greens—the superintendents and grounds crew. Matt offers insights into the challenging and sometimes under-appreciated work of keeping a golf course in top condition, revealing the hidden stresses and joys of the job. The discussion also touches on golf etiquette, particularly around fixing ball marks, and the delicate balance of maintaining challenging yet enjoyable courses for golfers. Tune in as they explore the intersection of life, golf, and the dedication required to create a memorable golfing experience. Don't miss the fun banter and mutual appreciation between caddies and the grounds crew—an insightful look into the world behind the fairways and greens.Sign up for Par 3 Thursdays. A weekly newsletter sharing three great things to check out in golf. - https://bestball.substack.comLinks:•https://twitter.com/caddietales•https://bestball.com/collections/caddie-tales-podcast•https://BestBall.com•https://linktr.ee/BestBallFriends of BestBall:•Zero Restriction - https://www.zerorestriction.com - Enter "BESTBALL20" for 20% off your order•Western Birch Golf Co. - Enter "BESTBALL" in the shipping cart for a free gift with your order - https://westernbirch.comInterested in sponsoring the Caddie Tales Podcast? Email info@bestball.com. The Caddie Tales Podcast is a member of the BestBall podcast family.

In today's episode, Mark and Nick discuss the challenges and nuances of communication, both on and off the golf course. They delve into stories of miscommunication and misinterpretation between caddies and players, sharing personal anecdotes and experiences from their time at Whistling Straits. From deciphering the varying definitions of an "edge putt" to the infamous 18th hole fiascos, they cover it all. So grab your golf bag and join us as we navigate the intricacies of caddie-player dynamics and the lessons they teach us about life. Sign up for Par 3 Thursdays. A weekly newsletter sharing three great things to check out in golf. - https://bestball.substack.comLinks:•https://twitter.com/caddietales•https://bestball.com/collections/caddie-tales-podcast•https://BestBall.com•https://linktr.ee/BestBallFriends of BestBall:•Zero Restriction - https://www.zerorestriction.com - Enter "BESTBALL20" for 20% off your order•Western Birch Golf Co. - Enter "BESTBALL" in the shipping cart for a free gift with your order - https://westernbirch.comInterested in sponsoring the Caddie Tales Podcast? Email info@bestball.com. The Caddie Tales Podcast is a member of the BestBall podcast family.

Welcome to the Caddie Tales Podcast, where we explore the world of golf through the eyes of those who carry the bags and share their stories. In today's episode, Mark and Nick are joined by Jim Keever, a former caddie who has gone on to enjoy a successful career as a media executive and a player of many pro ams. Jim shares with us how his early days as a caddie set the foundation for his future endeavors. From learning to work in a subordinate role to engaging with influential figures on the golf course, Jim's experiences have been life-changing. Tune in to discover the life skills and lessons that golf imparts, the art of managing expectations, and the power of listening, both on the course and in life. Jim also shares his thoughts on the essence of the game and how it mirrors the ups and downs we face. Whether you're a seasoned golfer, a budding caddie, or simply someone looking for inspiration, this episode is filled with insights that apply far beyond the fairways.Sign up for Par 3 Thursdays. A weekly newsletter sharing three great things to check out in golf. - https://bestball.substack.comLinks:•https://twitter.com/caddietales•https://bestball.com/collections/caddie-tales-podcast•https://BestBall.com•https://linktr.ee/BestBallFriends of BestBall:•Zero Restriction - https://www.zerorestriction.com - Enter "BESTBALL20" for 20% off your order•Western Birch Golf Co. - Enter "BESTBALL" in the shipping cart for a free gift with your order - https://westernbirch.comInterested in sponsoring the Caddie Tales Podcast? Email info@bestball.com. The Caddie Tales Podcast is a member of the BestBall podcast family.

In this episode of the Caddie Tales podcast, Mark and Nick dive into the intricacies of the caddie-player relationship, exploring how it mirrors the journey of life itself. They share insights into the hustle and skill that define effective caddies, while also highlighting the unpredictability and nuances that come with each round of golf. From discussing the importance of adapting to diverse players' expectations, to emphasizing the significance of hustle over skill for new caddies, Mark and Nick draw connections between the challenges of the course and the game of life. Join them as they reflect on memorable experiences, provide practical tips for caddies, and discuss the art of reading greens, the psychological dynamics on the course, and the unpredictability of players' behavior. As always, they weave in stories from their own experiences, giving listeners a glimpse into the world of golf from those behind the scenes. So, gear up, settle in, and let's tee off another enlightening conversation with Mark and Nick on Caddie Tales.Sign up for Par 3 Thursdays. A weekly newsletter sharing three great things to check out in golf. - https://bestball.substack.comLinks:•https://twitter.com/caddietales•https://bestball.com/collections/caddie-tales-podcast•https://BestBall.com•https://linktr.ee/BestBallFriends of BestBall:•Zero Restriction - https://www.zerorestriction.com - Enter "BESTBALL20" for 20% off your order•Western Birch Golf Co. - Enter "BESTBALL" in the shipping cart for a free gift with your order - https://westernbirch.comInterested in sponsoring the Caddie Tales Podcast? Email info@bestball.com. The Caddie Tales Podcast is a member of the BestBall podcast family.

Welcome to another episode of Caddie Tales, where Mark and Nick dive into the unique and intersecting worlds of golf and life. In today's episode, the hosts address a variety of listener questions from Mark's X DMs. From the most challenging types of golfers to caddie for, to the intricacies of twilight round pacing, Mark and Nick candidly share their insights and experiences. They tackle lighter topics too, like their favorite on-course snacks and outrageous drinking stories. With a delightful mix of humor and expertise, Mark and Nick also discuss the physical challenges of caddying, offering advice for big guys contemplating entering the field. As always, they end with the "heavy baggage" segment, reflecting on how to assist those carrying emotional loads in life. Whether you're an avid golfer or simply enjoy a good tale, this episode is packed with entertaining and relatable stories from the caddie world. Tune in and find out why, on this side of the ground, there is always a next shot full of hope and opportunity.Sign up for Par 3 Thursdays. A weekly newsletter sharing three great things to check out in golf. - https://bestball.substack.comLinks:•https://twitter.com/caddietales•https://bestball.com/collections/caddie-tales-podcast•https://BestBall.com•https://linktr.ee/BestBallFriends of BestBall:•Zero Restriction - https://www.zerorestriction.com - Enter "BESTBALL20" for 20% off your order•Western Birch Golf Co. - Enter "BESTBALL" in the shipping cart for a free gift with your order - https://westernbirch.comInterested in sponsoring the Caddie Tales Podcast? Email info@bestball.com. The Caddie Tales Podcast is a member of the BestBall podcast family.

Welcome to another exciting episode of Caddie Tales, where Mark and Nick explore the fascinating world of golf through the eyes of those who walk the course every day. In this episode, we are thrilled to have Garrett Andersson, a seasoned caddie with experience both on the club level and the Korn Ferry Tour. Garrett shares his unique journey into the world of caddying, revealing insight into the vibrant lifestyle and the intricate dynamics between caddies and golfers. He takes us through his early days as a cart guy in North Carolina, his adventurous sailboat living in South Carolina, and his eventual transition to the professional circuit. Delve into the nuances between club caddying and tour caddying, as well as the pressures and rewards of being a part of the professional golfing world. So grab your clubs and get ready for some eye-opening stories and valuable lessons from the fairway with Garrett Anderson!Sign up for Par 3 Thursdays. A weekly newsletter sharing three great things to check out in golf. - https://bestball.substack.comLinks:•https://twitter.com/caddietales•https://bestball.com/collections/caddie-tales-podcast•https://BestBall.com•https://linktr.ee/BestBallFriends of BestBall:•Zero Restriction - https://www.zerorestriction.com - Enter "BESTBALL20" for 20% off your order•Western Birch Golf Co. - Enter "BESTBALL" in the shipping cart for a free gift with your order - https://westernbirch.comInterested in sponsoring the Caddie Tales Podcast? Email info@bestball.com. The Caddie Tales Podcast is a member of the BestBall podcast family.