This Golfing Life – Details, episodes & analysis

Welcome to This Golfing Life, a new podcast from Sounder. Each week host Dan Davies invites a guest to share the intimate details of their love affair with this ridiculous but unbeatable game. Join him for conversations with actors, writers, artists, musicians, tour pros, course designers, historians, elite amateurs and more... some of the are household names, some are barely known beyond their own household. But all of them are united by a hopeless and helpless infatuation with golf. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Join us in this lively opening episode as host Dan Davies talks to comedian, actor, author and screenwriter Simon Farnaby (Paddington, Wonka, Horrible Histories, Ghosts, The Detectorists) about his remarkable journey through golf. From childhood beginnings to memorable experiences on some of the world's most famous courses, Simon shares hilarious stories of snatching defeat from the jaws of victory, dreaming of greatness, and the infamous Maurice Flitcroft, aka The Phantom of the Open. He also talks about meeting and playing a few holes with Tiger Woods, as well as the game’s emotional highs and lows, and the special bond that golf fosters between fathers and sons. In this episode: Simon's memorable trip to Turnberry and the “gateway drug” moment of falling in love with golf Bad temper on the golf course and trying too hard to impress your Dad The significance of club competitions, handicaps, and the joy of personal progress The importance of his Dad in his golfing journey The legendary Maurice Flitcroft, aka The Phantom of the Open: his story, attempts to play in The Open, the book and film  A memorable encounter with Tiger Woods — from a rare photo opportunity to the chance to play a few holes The importance of playing for enjoyment, the impact of family, and the lifelong bonds golf fosters Insights into Simon’s recent golf activities alongside a hectic career in film and television Links Sounder Golf Phantom of the Open - Book Phantom of the Open - Movie Maurice Flitcroft's autobiography (unpublished manuscript) Scott Murray - The Guardian Golf in the Kingdom by Michael Murphy RNGC - Britain’s toughest backyard golf course Connect with Simon Farnaby: Twitter Instagram Time stamps 00:00 Introduction to Simon Farnaby, this week's guest 01:58 The visor debate in golf 03:35 Wonka 2 and Timothy Chalamet 04:15 Turnberry and his start in golf 08:00 Junior golf and national prizes 10:32 Disaster in the Leech Cup at Darlington GC 13:36 Bad temper on the golf course 21:59 Realising you're obsessed with golf 24:39 Simon's relationship with his Dad 31:28 Cherished memories and golf trips 33:58 Taking his Dad to the Masters at Augusta National 36:55 The role of golf in his relationship with his Dad 39:30 Maurice Flitcroft: The Phantom of the Open 48:45 Mark Rylance learning golf 50:03 Hugh Grant and the best golfing actors 51:14 Simon's happiest times on the golf course 54:21 Meeting Tiger Woods and playing a few holes A candid, humorous, and heartfelt chat about golf, family, and chasing dreams against the backdrop of this ridiculous, confounding game. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This special Masters week episode celebrates the extraordinary golfing life of Seve Ballesteros, one of the most charismatic and talented players in golf history. Join us as distinguished guests Robert Green, David Cannon and Mike Clayton share their personal encounters, insights, and iconic moments that define Seve's enduring legacy. Main Topics Seve's innovative playing style and creative shot-making Key moments from his career including Open wins and Masters triumphs Seve's impact on European golf and the Ryder Cup revolution Personal stories from photographers, journalists, and competitors The enduring charisma and personality that made Seve a beloved figure worldwide In this episode: The significance of Seve's 1976 Open run at Royal Birkdale and his rise to international fame Details behind his most famous wins, including the 1979 Open, the 1980 Masters and 1984 Open The story of his near-miss at the 1986 Masters and the emotional impact Behind-the-scenes anecdotes from his close relationships with journalists and photographers His memorable final appearances at The Open and how he was loved globally Timestamps:  00:00 Introduction to this week's guests 02:44 David Cannon on playing with a young Seve in 1976 08:00 Car Park Champion: Seve wins his first major, the 1979 Open at Lytham 11:57 Seve: An elite driver of the ball 13:25 Why Seve loved Augusta National 14:26 Seve’s uncle Ramon Sota and his Masters appearances 15:16 Seve's background and start in golf 17:02 Seve finds life tough in the US 18:11 1980: Seve wins the Masters 19:43 Tuning up in Australia in 1983 20:42 Seve wins the 1983 Masters 23:13 Seve miracles at the 1983 Ryder Cup 27:33 Seve's greatest moment: the 1984 Open at St Andrews 31:53 Seve's heartbreak at the 1986 Masters 40:32 1987: a year of lows and highs 44:21 Getting to know Seve  – personal insights 48:27 1988: Seve's fifth and final major win 51:23 A memorable trip to visit Seve at home 56:20 Seve's miracle shot at Crans in 1993 59:39 Summing up Seve 01:01:41 Seve's Open farewell: 2006 at Royal Liverpool Resources & Links: Sounder Golf Dan Davies on Seve Seve Ballesteros Official Foundation Golf Digest - Seve's Iconic Shots 1980 Masters - Classic Footage 1986 Masters Final Round Highlights 1988 Open: Seve's fifth major (Official Film) RNGC on Instagram RNGC: Sacred Acre newsletter (Dan Davies) Connect with the Guests: Robert Green - Twitter Mike Clayton - Website | Twitter David Cannon - Instagram | Website  Celebrating Seve's spirit, talent, and enduring inspiration for golfers around the world. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This episode features a deep dive with Mike Clayton, tour pro, golf course architect, writer, thinker, proud son of Melbourne, and to many, a latter day patron saint of the game. In a wide-ranging conversation, Mike tells Dan about his latest project, the spectacular modern links at 7 Mile Beach in Tasmania. We learn more about Mike's start in the game, the rich golf scene in the Melbourne sand belt, course architecture, the mental challenges of golf, the historical figure he’s most like to have a conversation with, and his views on modern equipment and the sport's governing bodies. Opinionated, deeply knowledgable and unafraid to tell it it like it is, Mike Clayton has led a golfing life worth living. Key Topics Golf in the Melbourne sand belt Golf course architecture and design Mental and psychological aspects of golf Technology vs Tradition  Influence of legendary figures like Alistair MacKenzie and Peter Thomson How we get more beginners into the game Guest: Mike Clayton Host: Dan Davies Chapters 00:00 Introducing Mike Clayton, this week's guest 01:19 Update on 7 Mile Beach in Tasmania 03:40 Inside the mind of a golf course architect 04:56 Why England has the greatest variety of courses 05:51 Mike's start in golf 06:54 The sweet elixir of the sweet spot 08:21 Melbourne: Golf Mecca 10:01 Embracing Golf's Inherent Unfairness 12:58 Mind Games and the Power of "Don't" 15:30 Locating and getting into 'The Zone' 20:48 Mike's Favourite Courses on Tour 25:16 Influence of Alistair MacKenzie 28:41 Imagining Conversations with Golf Legends 30:10 The Legacy of Peter Thomson 35:39 Influential Figures in Golf History 36:55 Mike Clayton's Perspective on Golf 38:49 Fantasy Golf Tour: A Dream Itinerary 41:10 The Essence of Great Clubhouses 45:04 How to make golf accessible and change perceptions 49:07 The Elements of a Great Golf Club 53:36 Happiest Times in Golf 56:28 End Quick links Sounder Golf Mike Clayton's writing and projects Mike Clayton on X/Twitter Mike Clayton in Instagram 7 Mile Beach Clayton. Devries & Pont RNGC Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this in-depth interview, legendary golf photographer David Cannon shares his extraordinary journey through the world of sports photography, focusing on golf's most iconic moments, legendary players like Jack Nicklaus, Seve Ballesteros, Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy, and the art of capturing history in a split second. Discover the stories behind his most famous shots, including images of Seve and Carl Lewis in the summer of 1984, as well as his insights into the game, the influence of Tiger Woods, and how his passion has shaped a career spanning over four decades. Key Topics The evolution of golf photography over four decades Memorable moments and iconic shots of Seve Ballesteros and Tiger Woods The technical and artistic challenges of sports photography Seve, Norman, Woods, McIlroy: The influence of legendary players on golf imagery The importance of patience, positioning, and luck in capturing perfect shots Listen to this episode to get a 20% discount code on your next Sounder purchase Guest: David Cannon Host: Dan Davies Chapters 00:00 Introducing David Cannon and his early years in golf 04:13 Nick Faldo delivers an epiphany 07:10 The journey into sports photography 09:06 The transition from football to golf photography 12:33 The competitive nature of sports photography 15:42 How golf photography has changed 18:46 The importance of preparation and strategy 21:32 The gear and essentials for golf photography 24:37 The art of patience and David's favourite shot 27:42 memorable missed opportunities - Adam Scott and Justin Rose 30:36 The art of getting the definitive picture 34:06 The impact of Seve Ballesteros 35:14 Reflections on a career in golf photography 37:37 Seve, Carl Lewis and the summer of 84 41:03 The rise of Tiger Woods 45:47 The best light in golf 48:33 Reflections on a life in golf Resources Seve, His Life Through the Lens - edited by David Cannon David Cannon's Official Website David Cannon library on Getty Images Sounder Golf The Sacred Acre: RNGC's official newsletter RNGC on Instagram Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Danielle Thwaites, formerly Danielle Masters, was a rising star on the Ladies European Tour, a Curtis Cup player, and a prodigious talent in English golf — until injury and life took her away from the game. In this episode of This Golfing Life, Danielle shares her incredible journey: from picking up her first club as an 11-year-old in Maidstone, Kent, to competing internationally, facing career-halting injuries, and navigating the highs and lows of motherhood — including raising her son Stanley, who was diagnosed with Williams Syndrome. Now back in love with the game, Danielle talks about her return to golf, her determination to qualify for the AIG Women’s British Open, and how her passion for the sport and life has been shaped by resilience, family, and a relentless drive to enjoy every moment. Join host Dan Davies as he uncovers Danielle’s stories from life on tour, the adversity she’s faced, and her inspiring comeback to the game she loves. You can follow Danielle’s journey on Instagram at @danielle.golfer and on You Tube at DanielleGolf. Listen and follow to hear: How Danielle became an England international in just two years Life on the Ladies European Tour and the Curtis Cup experience Overcoming career-ending injury and stepping away from golf for a decade Raising a child with Williams syndrome and navigating family challenges Her journey back to competitive golf and dreams of the AIG Women’s British Open 20% discount at Sounder: Listen to this episode to get a 20% discount code off your next basket at SounderGolf.com  Follow Dan Davies and find out more about RNGC, Britain’s toughest test of extreme short golf, at @RNGC2021 Chapters 00:00 Introducing Danielle Thwaites 02:00 20 years ago: Who was Danielle Masters? 03:26 Meeting Jon, her future husband, aged 16 04:51 Danielle's start in golf and meteoric rise 10:05 Playing for England and unfortunate wardrobe choices 13:05 Highlights of Danielle's amateur career 16:58 Michelle Wie aged 13 19:54 Turning pro and playing on tour 26:55 Saving a life, getting injured, walking away from golf 33:47 Retraining, starting a business, marriage and motherhood 38:00 Bringing up a child with Williams syndrome 50:24 Turning 40 and turning back to golf 53:58 PING & reconnecting with her golf family 58:26 The new goal: Playing in the AIG Women's British Open Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dougray Scott — actor, golfer and proud son of Fife — joins host Dan Davies to unpack the connection between golf and spirituality. In this episode, Dougray talks about his childhood and playing golf with his Dad; his experiences playing iconic courses such as Cypress Point, Riviera, the Old Course, Machrihanish and Dunaverty; The Mini Masters, his long-running charity golf tournament; golf-related encounters with Bill Clinton and Arnold Palmer; his reflections on the game’s values; and how, ultimately, golf saved him from himself. Main Topics Dougray Scott’s latest film and TV projects His is journey from childhood in Fife  The influence of Scottish golf culture and his love of courses like Machrihanish, Dunaverty and Muirfield How golf has served as a spiritual and emotional refuge The significance of golf’s values — honesty, integrity, and mindfulness — in everyday life Memorable golf encounters with Bill Clinton and Arnold Palmer The history of The Mini Masters, Dougray’s charity golf tournament that supports Leukaemia research Perspectives on golf course design, and the changes to the New Course at Sunningdale Chapters: 00:00 Introducing this week's guest, Dougray Scott 01:39 Growing up in Glenrothes and the influence of golf 01:39 Dougray's recent projects 06:21 Growing up in Fife 07:50 Life lessons from golf and family values 09:55 The joy of golf in New Zealand 11:50 Lessons from his father 14:16 Childhood rounds at Machrihanish and Dunaverty 17:29 A lesson from Bob Torrance 20:00 Gil Hanse and the changes to Sunningdale New 23:11 Playing in the Dunhill Links and watching Tiger 25:29 Ben Hogan's swing and stylish elegance 27:10 Playing the the three George Thomas courses in LA 30:00 Dougray's favourite courses in the world 32:49 The birth of the Mini Masters charity tournament 39:47 Return of Mini Masters at Sunningdale Heath 40:46 Golf as a metaphor for life 42:51 Bill Clinton invites Dougray to play with Tiger 45:50 Meeting Arnold Palmer 46:45 What Dougray would ask Ben Hogan 49:11 Dougray's happiest times in golf Resources & Links: The Mini Masters website Leukaemia UK Sounder Golf RNGC - Britain's Premier Backyard Golf Course The Sacred Acre newsletter - Dan Davies on golf Machrihanish Golf Club Enjoy this insightful conversation with Dougray Scott, blending golf, life lessons and stories that remind us all of the game's deeper value beyond the score. This podcast is brought to you by Sounder. Listen to get a 20% off discount code on your next purchase at www.soundergolf.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This week on This Golfing Life, Dan Davies is joined by one of golf’s most extraordinary trick shot artists, Jeremy Dale. From caddying at the iconic 1984 Open at St Andrews to performing jaw-dropping switch-hitting trick shots around the globe, Jeremy shares his lifelong passion for golf, shot-making, and the art of entertaining. Jeremy reveals how he became one of the very few golfers to shoot under par both left-handed and right-handed, and how his fascination with shot-making started as a young boy. He recounts trick shot encounters with legends like Seve Ballesteros, Gary Player, and Padraig Harrington, and shares behind-the-scenes stories from his coaching, performing, and globetrotting career. Listeners will also hear Jeremy’s insights on: The psychology of golf and trusting your technique under pressure. How left- and right-handed swings mirror each other and why mastering both enhances your game. The evolution of golf course design and the resurgence of natural, British-style links courses. The distinction between live trick-shot entertainment and social media trick-shot culture. The importance of mentoring, youth golf, and fostering a love for the game. Chapters: 00:00 Introducing this week's guest, Jeremy Dale 01:29 The start of Jeremy's love affair with golf 03:25 The Joy of Shot Making 04:35 Attending the 1976 Open at Royal Birkdale 05:45 Influences and Inspirations: Nicklaus, Weiskopf, Seve 08:55 Tony Jacklin and the Ryder Cup 11:20 Caddying at the Open: A Life-Changing Experience 17:28 The brilliance of Seve Ballesteros 19:19 The Evolution of Golf Course Architecture 24:24 Becoming a Golf Pro: Early days in Europe 27:18 First trick shot shows 28:55 Teaching himself to play left-handed 33:23 Trick shots and technique 35:42 Developing his repertoire of Trick Shots 40:08 Trick Shots in Social Media 45:26 Hitting trick shots with Golf Legends 49:05 Recovering from Difficult Situations on the Course 53:20 The Psychology of Golf Performance 56:47 Jeremy's Happy Places in Golf 01:01:56 A Busy Year Ahead for Jeremy Dale Highlights: Jeremy’s first round of golf and attending the 1976 Open at Birkdale. Caddying for John Garner in the 1984 Open at St Andrews and sharing a car ride with Gary Player. Performing live trick shots, including switch-hitting left- and right-handed, the Swiss ball, and high-tee Happy Gilmore shots. His views on European golf legends, Ryder Cup history, and course architecture. The story behind his nine career holes-in-one, both left- and right-handed. Life as a touring golf performer across 43 countries and his YouTube initiatives for coaching and trick shots. Connect with Jeremy Dale: Website: jeremydale.com YouTube: Jeremy Dale’s Golfing Curriculum & Jeremy Dale Trick Shots Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this inspiring episode of This Golfing Life, Dan Davies sits down with Kipp Popert, the world’s top-ranked golfer with a disability. Kipp shares his extraordinary journey from growing up with cerebral palsy to becoming a global leader in adaptive golf, and the personal philosophy that drives him to pursue excellence both on and off the course. Listeners will hear about Kipp’s life-changing experiences, including 12 surgeries, the early challenges of spastic diplegia, and how his love for sports and relentless determination shaped his career. He reflects candidly on growing up with a disability, the inspiration he draws from other adaptive athletes, and the vision behind his own initiative: the Kipp Popert World Invitational, designed to create opportunities for elite disabled golfers. Highlights Overcoming Challenges: Kipp discusses the 12 surgeries he’s had since childhood to manage cerebral palsy, and the resilience developed through those experiences. Golf as Purpose: How golf has been a guiding force in his life, providing focus, passion, and a platform to inspire others. Elite Disabled Golf: Insights into the G4D Tour and the US Adaptive Open, showcasing athletes like Chris Biggins and Max Togasala who redefine what’s possible in adaptive golf. Meeting Legends: Stories from his encounters with golfing icons like Lee Trevino, Tom Watson, Stewart Cink, and Paul Lawrie, and how these experiences shaped his approach to the game. Creating Opportunities: The conception of the Kipp Popert World Invitational, raising £140,000 to support disabled golfers and children, including international competitors and local community initiatives. Vision Beyond Limits: Kipp shares his ultimate goal – to compete in able-bodied major championships—and his philosophy of “press on” in life, inspired by family and personal mentors. Why You Should Listen This episode is a masterclass in determination, adaptability, and the power of sport to change lives. Kipp’s story is not only about golf – it’s about resilience, opportunity, and the belief that challenges don’t define you; your response does. Whether you’re a golfer, sports enthusiast, or someone looking for motivation, this conversation will leave you inspired by the extraordinary achievements possible when talent meets tenacity. Connect & Follow Kipp Popert: Instagram KP World Invitational: Instagram Sounder Golf: Sounder.com Dan Davies on Instagram: @RNGC2021 Chapters 00:00 Introducing this week's guest, Kipp Popert 01:47 Kipp's life with cerebral palsy 09:42 Understanding Disabilities in Golf Competitions 11:50 The Journey of Leading Disabled Golfers and Their Achievements 14:10 Caddying Experience and Learning from Others 15:25 The Business of Disabled Golf and Sponsorships 17:18 The Role of Family and Personal Philosophy 22:35 The Need for Recognition and Support in Disabled Golf 24:17 Comparing Disabled Golf to Other Sports 26:18 Determination and Personal Growth in Golf 30:10 Key Milestones and Achievements in Kipp's Golf Career 37:18 Shaping the Game: Techniques and Learning 38:12 Lessons from Lee Trevino: Mastering Pressure and Performance 43:44 The G4D Tour: Opportunities and Challenges for Disabled Golfers 44:59 The Kipp Popert World Invitational, Sponsorship and Support 46:51 Creating Opportunities for Disabled Golfers 52:10 Aiming for Able-Bodied Major Championships 57:39 The Personal Impact of Golf 01:05:24 Building a Legacy Through Golf Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this episode, actor James Nesbitt and host Dan Davies enjoy a wide-ranging conversation that covers Cold Feet, Bloody Sunday, Royal Portrush, Rory McIlroy, Sir Alex Ferguson, mental frailties on the golf course, and a whole lot more. From his formative years in Coleraine to his experiences of playing with golfing greats, Nesbitt offers a candid and humorous perspective on the game, his friendships, and his role as an ambassador for Northern Ireland, now acknowledged as one of golf’s greatest destinations. It’s an entertaining and heartfelt deep dive into golf, life, and everything in between.  Key Topics The role of golf in fostering community and healing in Northern Ireland James Nesbitt’s cultural roots, career highlights, and the significance of Bloody Sunday Portrush and the impact of The Open Championship Insights into his close friends, including Rory McIlroy, Sir Alex Ferguson, and Kenny Dalglish The importance of lifelong friendships, golf trips and shared experiences Sir Alex Ferguson’s mentorship and the power of honest leadership James’s charitable work with WAVE Trauma Centre and the families of the disappeared Mental meltdowns on the golf course Chapters  00:00 Introducing this week's guest, Jimmy Nesbitt 02:34 What Portrush means to Jimmy Nesbitt 05:57 What the Open means to Portrush and Northern Ireland 11:57 Jimmy's views on the Americanisation of pro golf 13:54 Getting to know Rory McIlroy, Northern Ireland's new George Best 20:46 The importance of lifelong friendships 24:30 Jimmy's late start in golf 27:09 Jimmy's early golfing heroes - Watson, Nicklaus, Seve 32:18 The mental challenges of playing golf 34:23 Jimmy's close relationship with Sir Alex Ferguson 43:53 The significance of TV drama Bloody Sunday 49:51 Working with WAVE Trauma Centre in Northern Ireland 56:50 The Mini Masters - "the best competition in the world" 58:25 Meltdowns on the golf course 01:01:54 New TV projects and the power of Netflix Resources & Links James Nesbitt’s Official Website WAVE Trauma Centre Rory McIlroy Foundation Sounder Golf Dan Davies on Substack RNGC, Britain’s premier backyard golf course Connect with James Nesbitt Twitter Instagram Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices