Golf Cart Conversations

Hop into the cart and join Mike and Donovan as they rap about nose strips, long clubs, broken T.V.s, pace of play, and an Oregon Golf Quest round at Oregon City Golf Course. if this podcast were a round of golf, it would be a solid 82 and that's not too shabby. Enjoy!

Well it's been a minute, but we are back with another episode! In this one, Mike and Donovan take a look back at their first couple of rounds on their journey to play every course in Oregon. The boys breakdown their soggy day at Redtail Golf Course in southwest Portland and then spend some time drooling over their most recent round at the superlative Willamette Valley Country Club. You don't want to miss their hot takes on these Pacific Northwest tracks.Oh, and of course, the guys geek out on their swings and break down their latest tips, tricks and swing thoughts.Its been great for Mike and Donovan to get back on the mic and talk golf. it's the best! Enjoy!

We're back! Season 2 kicks off with a bombshell announcement from Mike that will change the landscape of golf between Mike and Donovan for years to come. In response, Donovan lets the world know that he means business, with a golf goal that is lofty and daunting. Its a great start to a new golf season, so press play, sit back, relax, and enjoy the ride through another fantastic round with Mike and Donovan!. 

The boys head back out on the course with a round at Stonecreek golf course. Originally this was going to their first Oregon Golf Quest course but have since decided to delay the Quest until March, but there thoughts on Stonecreek are no less interesting.Tune in as they talk home projects, lost bets, putter grips changes, heroic rounds and so much more.Oh, and you might hear some talk about Christmas gifts. Yes, they know its January, so whenever you hear the words Christmas, just ignore it and pretend their talking about any gift. Sound good? Good.Enjoy the latest epidode of Golf Cart Conversations!

Well, it's been a couple of months since our last episode and we are not going to lie to you, we weren't confident this one was going to get released. The truth is, Mike took over the audio editing because his wife got tired of listening to these dumb-asses drone on about golf while she worked tirelessly to make them sound coherent. So, Mike has taken on the heroes work of trying fix all the stupid mistakes while we record. With out further ado, here it is, in all of its average-to-below average glory. Episode 36.It was recorded in November, so please excuse any out of date references... In this episode Mike and Donovan rap about Tiger Wood, alternate professional golf associations, winter golf practice goals, putter grips, finger names, sword names, and the Oregon Golf Quest. Tune in and enjoy!

The episode launches with a great conversation about Donovan's attempt at a no-Screen November for himself and his family. How is Donovan managing life without screens? How's the fam doing? Are they bored beyond belief. Surely they are on each other's last nerve!? its a relatable conversation for anyone who struggles with screen addiction. Mike's makes an exciting announcement about a winter pass he purchased at Summerfield golf course, a sweet little track in Tigard, Oregon. Why'd he buy the pass and is he regretting it?Is winter golf better than  summer golf? It seems a crazy question to ask, but the boys lay down some compelling arguments as to why it just might be.Also, tune in to hear about their plans for the first courses of the Oregon Golf Quest. Where will they be playing first? Enjoy!

Oregon is a vast golfing landscape with courses of all shapes and sizes. From the grungiest executive to the world renowned dunes of Bandon , Oregon golf has it all, and Mike and Donovan want to experience it all. A while back, the boys read an article about a man from Washington who successfully played everyone public golf in his state. This story inspired Mike and Donovan. Since then they have slowly chatted and schemed. The goal is mighty, but their desire is even greater! In this episode, Donovan and Mike announce their quest of playing every public course in Oregon! Such an epic quest deserves an epic name, and so it shall be. Join Mike and Donovan as they launch, The Oregon Golf Quest!

It all starts with some exciting changes for Donovan and his golf world! You'll have to tune in to hear all about it!Also, Donovan and Mike discuss fashion and the internal struggle they have between going full dad fashion and staying reasonably relevant. Finally, the boys discuss classic Nintendo. Listen in to take a walk down memory lane!  

After watching the pros on tour destroy a course and shoot -27, Mike asks Donovan whether golf courses are too easy and whether that's a good thing, or not. The discussions bends towards whether this new long bomb domination of a course is more entertaining than battling to even par or if pros scrapping their way to close to even par is better for the viewers and the game. It's a good discussion that has Mike and Donovan wondering whether they like the old game or the new game.You'll  want to stay tuned for Mike and Donovan discussion their dream golf job and the pros and cons that might come with it.It's a great episode that you don't want to miss! Enjoy!

It's been a funny summer.  Not only have Mike and Donovan golfed more than they every have, they've also practiced, watch and talked more golf than ever before.  But has it paid off? Are they improving or are they stuck? In this episode Mike and Donovan start to see the gains they have been itching for all summer. Tune in to hear about Mike's latest round at OGA golf course and Donovan's latest swing moves that are chipping away at his over-the-top move. You'll love hearing about Donovan's left butt cheek. There are many great little golf gems in this episode, so check it out!Oh, and you'll also hear about Donovan's terrible sense of direction, so that's fun. Enjoy!

It's episode 30 y'all! The episode starts with a discussion about a revolutionary change in Donovan's approach game. All of a sudden he's Robin Hood shooting arrows at the flag stick. What is his secret to this new found success?The episode then meanders into a brief update about Mike's putter grip change. Sounds fascinating, right? Well it is! Otherworldly! Will this change turn Mike into a god on the putting greens, or will he just be another guy who can't settle on a simple grip?  Stay tuned!Finally, Mike and Donovan dive into the fascinatingly complex topic of pace of play. Is it fair to make high-cappers play to the same-speed as low capper? Should courses be like ski slopes? Should everyone just chill out and enjoy the day on the course, no matter how long it takes. This complex topic gets the full Mike and Donovan treatment. You won't want to miss this one!Enjoy!

Oh, hi there episode 29, were so glad you could join us! Yes, it's finally here, and it's a peach. It's a little bit longer than normal, so let's break it down so you can jump to the part(s) that sound most interesting/entertaining.Start: Meet intern Donovan. He's pretty useless.2:40: Donovan's AC almost explodes. No, really, it's true. Turns out the crappy home warranty repair man doesn't know a damn thing about AC's. 8:35: Is Mike a soccer fan? He claims to be, but Donovan wants to talk Gold Cup and Mike is out of the loop. Donovan calls him out and things get awkward.14:50: Golf Course Management wrap-up. Yes, you've been waiting anxiously to hear our final words on this important topic. So here it is, and it will change your life (or your golf game (hopefully!)).22:25: If you ever get the chance to play unlimited golf at a course that has yet to open to the general public, DO IT! Mike and Donovan breakdown their preview play day at a new course in Roseburg, Oregon called Bar Run Golf Course. Like I said, there's a lot in this episode, but its all good (or mostly good). Enjoy!

Oh what an episode! This one gets a little lengthy because we have so much to talk about. Donovan and Mike's lives are packed with golf right now! First things first, we've got to review the Open Championship (British Open).  Mike and Donovan share their thoughts and opinions about the big win for Collin and the big disappointment for Louis.The fellas spend most of the episode talking about some important ideas for course management for approach shots. For those of you looking to trim some boneheaded shots from your round, this episode has some sweet nuggets that just might help you come out looking like a genius around your golf buddies (and hopefully a few strokes better as well!)Finally, the boys break down their jam-packed golf weekend. 90 holes in 3-days! Lots to talk about, including a golf hack that Donovan neglected to share with Mike.  Mike's a little pissed off about it. You don't want to miss this episode! Tune in and enjoy!!!

In episode 26, Mike and Donovan began a discussion on a huge topic: course management. In episode 27 the discussion gets more specific and focused. For this episode, the boys zoom in on the tee box. The question is, how can golfers set themselves up for success  with their first shot on a hole? As all of us have experienced, a bad decision on the tee box can lead to a monster number by the end of the hole. Tune in and hear some of the things the guys think about when they are on the box. Just like you, they haven't figured it out yet, but the discussion has some good nuggets that just might help!Also, what's with V-neck shirts. Mike doesn't get them and Donovan loves them. You don't want to miss that debate. Enjoy!

We all know golf can be full of mental and physical shenanigans! Half the time we beat ourselves before we even tee it up on number one. This episode is all about how golfers can begin to get the upper hand on this fiendish game. Listen in as Mike and Donovan dip their toes into a bigger conversation about golf course management. Over the next few episodes we'll dive deeper into course management and how you can apply solid strategies to minimize your exposure on the course.Also, don't miss the chat about a recent round that both Mike and Donovan deem "the best round of the year."It's really a can't miss episode, so go ahead and hit that big triangle. It's go time! Enjoy!

There are some wonderful golf courses in and around the Portland area. Elk Ridge Golf Course is no exception. It's about an hour up the Columbia Gorge from Portland near Stevenson Washington. If you've never played, you've got to get up there!! It's a beaut! Donovan and Mike took the trek up there to try their hand at this tricky course. Tune in to hear the highs and the lows (especially for Mike) of this great day on the links. The greens were primo, the fairway were lush, and the sky was blue. But the sand traps... well, you'll have to listen to episode 25 to find out. Enjoy!

You wonder off the fairway, through the rough and enter the forest. Your golf ball's in there somewhere, but as you trudge around, you realize the sounds of twigs snapping is not coming from your foot falls. As you look up, your adrenaline rises and your eyes scan the forest for the source of the noise. Your heart rate quickens and your mind starts to play tricks. It's probably a squirrel or a deer, but what if its...In episode 24 Donovan shares his story of a solo round a local track call Kohl Creek. His solo rounds leads to some interesting thoughts on both golf and life. How would you handle a bear attack on the course? Also, you'll want to tune into Mike and Donovan's completely uninformed breakdown and predictions for the 2021 U.S. Open at Torrey Pines. Enjoy!

It's fun to try new things. That's just what Mike and Donovan did when they took part in a new tournament format put on by Portland Golf-o-holics. Mike and Donovan break down their experience and give recommendations/reviews. We couldn't call ourselves a golf podcast if we didn't talk about the shocking news of Jon Rahm withdrawing from the Memorial with a 6 stroke lead and case of COVID. Hear Mike and Donovan's opinions of how it was handled.Finally, Mike recently had a birthday, and as is normal with golf addicted people, the presents  mostly revolved around golf. Listen in to hear what Mike got and what he's got planned.Episode 23 is one of the best and we hope you enjoy listening to it. You'll also love hearing about Mike's Dad bod. Photos can be found on Instagram. It's glorious.

In episode 22 Mike and Donovan cover some topics! The conversations starts with a recap of Lefty's triumphant PGA championship, and then meanders over to Brooks and Bryson hate crush. After that, it's all about Mike. Mike reviews his recent guys golf weekend and then breaks the news about his new golf clubs. So much to cover! It's all fun and it's all good! Enjoy!

How much do you love playing a round of golf solo? For some of you, that might seem like a foreign idea. Golf is supposed to be a social sport. You get three of your buddies, head out to the course and proceed to destroy the course and each other. Well, in this episode, Mike and Donovan talk about the some great aspect of a round by yourself. Also, hear how wrong and uniformed the boys (especially Mike) were about the PGA Championship. 

Have you ever filmed your swing?  I think the answer for most amateurs would be "no".  Most of us have never taken the time to actually see what our swings look like. This was true for both Mike and Donovan. But recently, the boys discovered how helpful and empowering it can be to film your swing. In episode 20, Mike and Donovan discuss ways they filmed, things they've learned and also things to be weary of when you film your swing. This is a great episode for all sorts of amateur golfers who are looking to improved their game! Enjoy!

Portland Oregon is a city of leagues. Theres a league for everything! Even adult kickball! These leagues provide a great opportunity for adults to get together in a fun and competitive environment. In this episode of Paired up, Mike and Donovan talk to Chace, the creator of a new social golf league called Portland Golf-O-Holics. Chace puts a fun spin on the classic golf tournament to appeal to competitive and casual golfer alike. Listen in to this  interview as Chace tells Mike and Donovan all about this new venture. Of course Mike and Donovan also have to get in some personal questions about his game. Enjoy the newest episode of Paired Up!

Would you do it? Would you let your best golfing buddy mess with your swing? Well, smart or not, Donovan agreed to be the first student in the Mike Plein Golf Academy (patent pending).  On a lovely May day in Oregon at the Oregon Golf Association golf course in Woodburn, Mike begins the great analysis of Donovan's flawed swing. Can Mike locate the root of Donovan's problem or does Mike mettle where he shouldn't and cause Donovan years of pain and shanks? Tune into episode 19 to learn what happens when a friend becomes a teacher. Enjoy!

Each year, Thomas takes a golf trip with some buddies. On this particular year, Thomas is playing Tetherow in Central, Oregon. It is a beautiful and challenging course. Listen to Thomas tell his hole in one tale.  It's unlike any hole in one story we've ever heard before. You don't want to miss this one.

It starts simple enough. Mike shares a story from a listener of the show who makes Donovan's case of the yips pail in comparison.  From there, things get interesting.  Donovan reveals that maybe isn't all the way back from his dance with the golf devil.  In fact, Donovan makes a shocking announcement that leaves Mike flabbergasted. Listen in to hear about the drastic steps Donovan is taking to get his game back on track!

The boys of Golf Cart Conversation get paired up with another pair of podcasters Callum and George from Plugged Golf Podcast. This across the pond collab gave both pairs of podcasters the opportunity to star on each others shows. For the Golf Cart Conversation version the pairs cover all sorts of great golf topics including some surprising difference between golf in the UK and the states. Tune into to check out this great interview with Plugged Golf Podcast.CHECK OUT Plugged Golf Podcast on Youtube or your favorite podcast platform!

Episode 17 starts off dark, but that's O.K. because golf is a tough game and we all go through some dark moments. What's important is what you do to bring yourself back to the light. In this episode, Mike and Donovan have a bit of a therapy session and hopefully, Donovan's story can help you if you every find yourself in a dark space (which you will, because golf is a tough game!).Donovan and Mike also spend sometime looking at the last area of their the preseason breakdown: off the tee.  Are they going to swing easy to keep the ball in play or are they swinging for the fences to set up the sand wedge approach? Tune in to find out! 

Our preseason breakdown continues with a fun look at a one of the most important and difficult aspects of the game: the approach.  We break down the things we are working on, struggling with and looking forward too. This episode is like a nice, smooth, full swing pitching wedge, which you pinch with a nice divot that lands just past the pin, takes one hop, and then checks back for a nice 6ft birdie putt.... Sweet! Enjoy!

Our first One Shot Wonder story comes from a college buddy named Dan. When we reached out on Facebook for hole in one stories, Dan was one of the first people to reply, and we are glad he did. Dan tells a great story about his double-rare, birthday hole in one.  Enjoy our first One Shot Wonder!

The GCC boys are back at it again! Another fantastic episode where Mike and Donovan get down to the details about their chipping and pitching (What even is the difference between chipping and pitching...full disclosure: you won't find the answer in this episode. Just google it).The boys breakdown the tips, tricks, strategies and struggles they have when trying to get up and down for par (more likely bogey, but still). So grab a wedge, a bag of your favorite chips and listen in to this short game bonanza! Enjoy!

Mike and Donovan are your tour guides as they talk season prep, specifically what they are doing to keep their putting game strong this season!In addition, can't be doing a golf podcast without talking The Masters this week. We get into what we most hyped about and who we think will come out on top!Check out this weeks episode!!!

No big deal. Just the first time Mike has splurged for new clubs in 20 YEARS! Turns out technology has advanced just a touch. In this episode you learn about which set of shiny new sticks Mike is gaming, as well as how he made such a tough decision. Also, if you've ever wanted to set up a quick and easy DIY practice area, just listen in as Donovan and Mike rap about their present and future set ups. If you've got the time and the space, then this is just what you need to hear!

In episode 12 the boys are back in town! Donovan and Mike sit down for a chat about the state of their games, their ailing bodies, and what makes a great golf course.  Donovan has a big announcement about his bag and Mike teases his plans for an at home hitting net. It's been a bit since Mike and Donovan have talked, just the two of them, so check out this fun conversation between best golfing buds!Check us out on Instagram @golf_cart_conversationsEnjoy!

In this episode Mike and Donovan  get to talk with the CEO of the Oregon Golf Association Barb Trammell.  Barb has been in that role since 2007 and has a wealth of knowledge about all things Oregon golf. Tune in to learn about the opportunities and programs associated with  the OGA.Along with her experience with Oregon golf, Barb has also held a variety of roles within the golf world including VP of Tournament operations for the LPGA and was one of the first women to be invited to officiate the 4 majors.  Mike and Donovan ask her about this and much more in this fun and informative interview. You don't want to miss it! 

We made it to episode 10! Double digits baby! In this episode we talk to Justin Ratte, the Program Director at First Tee Greater Portland. Justin fills the guys in on all the great things that First Tee is doing to grow great people and golfers. Listen in to learn about First Tee's mission, ways you can get involved and what First Tee can do for kids. Mike and Donovan were so impressed and they think First Tee is a program that everyone, golfers and non-golfers alike, should know about! Enjoy learning all about First Tee!

"It was a garbage hole in one", Mike exclaimed while describing a good friends hole in one. Not surprisingly, offense was taken and wrongs needed to be made right. So in episode 9, Mike and Donovan invite their good buddy Big E onto the show to defend his hole in one and put Mike and Donovan back in their place. Was it really a garbage ace or are Mike and D just jealous? You decide!Also, Donovan presents the intriguing idea of a hole in one pact. Traditionally, the ace buys the post round drinks, but can we take that idea one step farther? The boys, including Big E share their ideas for how they will celebrate their hole in one with their playing parters. Is Mike's idea too extreme?Enjoy our episode about the elusive ace! #noputterneeded

In episode 8 Mike reveals his new driver! Which driver did he decide on and how did he make his decision?  Also, a jealous Donovan talks about which driver he fancies and how he hopes to get his hands on one. Don't miss Donovan's conclusion on drivers and the importance of the process Mike and Donovan took to narrow down their choices..The boys also talk about their latest round out at Heron Lakes golf course in Portland, Oregon. Hear about Mike's collapse, Donovan's complaints and the good and bad of a soggy round in the PNW.

The one where the guys head to Fiddlers Green golf facility to demo new 2021 drivers in the hunt for a new addition to the bag.  In this episode, we recap our great experience demoing clubs with Tyler, from Fiddlers Green, as our guide.  What a great dude!  Once we finished our session, Tyler was kind enough to sit down and walk through the process as well as tell us a little bit about his golf journey (including a hole in one at 11!).  Tune in to find out if this experience led to new clubs in the bag.  Also, if you are in the area, go to Fiddlers Green for a fitting and ask for Tyler, phenomenal experience!Check us out on Instagram: @golf_cart_conversations 

In episode 6 Mike and Donovan get a chance to sit down with Ron Schott, founder of PNDubs Golf. Ron is a PNW golf community advocate who is always looking for ways to grow the game. He also operates an online store that sells hand-stamped ball markers and other PNW-styled gear. Check him out at pndubsgolf.com. In this episode we talk about how Ron got into golf, what inspired him to open a golf business, what it means to him to grow the PNW golf community, and much more! Enjoy our first guest and cheers to Captain Hozzle Rocket!Check us out on Instagram:@golfcartconversations@ronschott@pndubsgolf

I'm sure most of you are just like Donovan and Mike. When the weather turns, the clubs go away in the garage, and they don't come back until the sun comes backs. This year,   Donovan and Mike decide to do things a little differently. Listen in to hear how they plan to keep their games sharp so they are ready to attack some pins come spring. Also tune in to hear about Donovan's biggest regret,  Mike becoming his parents and Donovan cheating death. So much to talk about in episode 5 of Golf Cart Conversations.Shout out to Tater and Big E!Check us out on Instagram: @golf_cart_conversations

In Episode 4,  Mike and Donovan make a plan for for how to find the perfect driver, without spending money on a driver fitting. Also, Mike puts Donovan on notice about his off-season workout regimen. Don't miss our first round of "Speed Golf - Front Nine"!

The one where the guys get deep into their first driver fitting at Par West Golf in Portland.  Listen in to how it went, if they would recommend and whether they have new drivers.

The one where the guys friendship is tested over the use of off season handicaps in friendly wages.  Also, they prepare for their upcoming (first ever) driver fitting.  Enjoy!

The one where the guys introduce themselves, telling you a little bit about their golf game and set new years goals.  Enjoy!