Unveiling the World of Golf Podcasting and the Unseen Side of Professional Golf
In the vast world of golf media, a podcasting journey can be a challenging endeavor. Mike McNamara, alongside his friends, embarked on this adventure in 2017, creating "The Amateur Hour," a golf podcast that gained recognition for engaging interviews with prominent figures in the golfing sphere. In this article, we will delve into Mike's experiences, the challenges he faced, and the valuable insights he gained throughout his podcasting journey. Additionally, we will explore the unseen side of professional golf, shedding light on the determination and resilience required to make it to the top.
Mike's venture into the golf podcasting realm was fueled by his deep-rooted passion for the sport. Over the past six to seven years, his interest in the PGA Tour and all things golf-related has grown exponentially, despite golf initially playing second fiddle to football and basketball in his life.
Starting a podcast from scratch is no easy feat, especially in a saturated market. Mike and his friends had to work hard to establish connections and build a following. They adopted a sales-like approach, reaching out to potential guests, and persevered in their quest to make a mark in the golf media landscape.
To stay abreast of the latest happenings in the golfing world, Mike expanded his knowledge beyond watching tournaments. He began working with the Action Network, covering college basketball and football, where he experienced a wealth of golf-related content. This exposure enabled him to delve deep into the PGA Tour, including tournament previews, course analysis, and power rankings.
Mike observed that the golfing scene has transformed significantly in recent years. With the emergence of young talent and increasingly competitive fields, winning on the Tour has become more challenging than ever. He also noted the surge in people taking up golf during the COVID-19 pandemic, emphasizing the importance of attracting players from diverse age groups to ensure the game's continued growth.
Throughout his podcasting journey, Mike conducted numerous interviews, each offering unique perspectives on the game. One interview that stood out was with Kessler Karain, Patrick Reed's caddy and brother-in-law. Mike appreciated the opportunity to converse with Kessler, gaining insights into the dynamics of being on the bag for a player who often finds himself in the media spotlight.
In his conversations with players from various tours, Mike discovered a prevailing theme: the relentless grind and competitiveness of professional golf. Countless aspiring pro golfers dedicate their lives to the sport, striving to secure one of the limited number of PGA Tour cards. The journey to success involves consistent excellence and the ability to seize opportunities when they arise.
As a seasoned podcaster, Mike honed his interviewing skills. While preparation is crucial, he also valued the conversational aspect, allowing for organic and free-flowing discussions. Researching guests' backgrounds, reading articles, and listening to previous interviews helped him bring a unique perspective to each conversation.
Mike McNamara's journey in the golf podcasting realm exemplifies the dedication and persistence required to succeed in the ever-evolving media landscape. From humble beginnings, he and his friends built a podcast that resonated with both established players and emerging talent. Through insightful interviews and a love for the game, Mike has left an indelible mark on the golf media sphere, showcasing the passion and vibrancy that golf offers to enthusiasts of all ages. Furthermore, by exploring the unseen side of professional golf, we gain a greater appreciation for the challenges and triumphs these players encounter throughout their journey. So, the next time you tune in to watch a tournament, remember the incredible stories that unfold behind the scenes.