Every Saturday morning on our radio show, we have the distinct privilege of chatting with Mike Hicks, a man whose career has spanned over forty years in the professional golf world. Most notably known as the longtime caddie for the legendary Payne Stewart, Mike brings an incredibly rare perspective to the game. He isn’t just a witness to history; he was an active participant in some of the sport's most iconic moments. In our latest episode, Mike takes us back to the very beginning, sharing the story of his early caddying days and the series of events that led to him landing on the bag for a rising star like Payne Stewart. It is a fascinating look at how the profession has evolved, contrasting the grit and hustle required to get a break in the early days versus the highly structured, professionalized industry it has become today.

One of the most moving parts of our conversation centers on the lead-up to the 1999 U.S. Open at Pinehurst. While the world remembers the fist pump and the final putt, Mike lived through the struggle that preceded the glory. He reveals that for a long period, Payne was essentially coasting—relying on his immense natural talent to collect a paycheck every week but failing to find the winner’s circle. Mike explains the mental and physical blocks that stood in Payne’s way and the pivotal role Stewart’s wife played in his transformation. It was her influence that inspired Payne to look deeper within himself, leading to the renewed focus and spiritual maturity that ultimately paved the way for that historic victory. Mike’s behind-the-scenes account offers a vulnerable look at the man behind the tam-o’-shanter and the hurdles he had to clear to reach the pinnacle of the sport.

The discussion then shifts from the past to the present as Mike shares his candid thoughts on the current state of golf. Having seen the game transition through multiple eras, he offers a unique take on the "arc" of the industry and where it is heading in the next decade. Mike isn't just looking back, though; he is actively shaping the future of the game by bringing the Arc Master to the U.S. market. Drawing on his decades of experience watching the world’s best putters, he explains why he is championing this specific training technology and how it helps golfers find the consistency needed on the greens. Whether you are looking for a deep dive into golf’s golden era or want to stay ahead of the curve on the latest technology, this episode with Mike Hicks is a must-watch. You can catch the full interview and get a different perspective on the industry by visiting our YouTube channel.

The Valspar Championship is celebrating a massive double anniversary this year: 50 years of the Copperheads and 25 years of professional golf at Innisbrook. Tournament Director Tracey West joined us to explain why this is officially the "most colorful" and family-friendly event on the calendar. With kids 15 and under getting in free, and complimentary tickets for those turning 25 or 50 in March, Valspar is intentionally making elite golf affordable and accessible for the Tampa Bay community.

The 2026 field is stacked, featuring 19 of the top 50 players in the world, including Brooks Koepka, Patrick Cantlay, and Xander Schauffele. But the action isn't just on the greens; the weekend features a free concert for Saturday ticket holders with Lee Brice and Tyler Hubbard, plus new fan zones for March Madness viewing. From influencer appearances to prizes for fans dressed in bright colors, Tracey and her team have transformed this tournament into a week-long festival that proves golf is for everyone.