S2 Ep 1: New Year's

New Goals

Eli Strait and Mike Shade kick off the new season of "Chasing Scratch" with renewed enthusiasm and a familiar goal: to improve their golf game. They humorously acknowledge their previous year's challenges, emphasizing the importance of listening to season one for context and inside jokes 1. The duo outlines their major golf events for the year, including the Shannon DOA Showdown and a potential listener shootout, promising an exciting season ahead 2.

Anybody that's hung around to season two at this point, I don't know what you're expecting from us. It's going to be a downhill slide.

--- Mike Shade

Their candid approach sets the tone for a season filled with humor and determination.

   

Motivation

Adjusting their timeline, Mike and Eli decide to conclude their golf quest by October 1, citing weather and daylight as key factors 3. They maintain the stakes from last year, including the coveted prize of 60 vice golf balls for the lowest handicap and a paid golf trip for the final major's winner. The hosts reflect on the anxiety and excitement these stakes inject into their matches, adding a layer of intensity to their friendly competition.

It injected the perfect amount of fear and anxiety into the golf match.

--- Eli Strait

This strategic adjustment aims to keep their motivation high throughout the season.

   

Improvement

Reflecting on lessons from the previous season, Eli and Mike recognize the need to maximize their limited free time for both golf and podcast production 4. They calculate having only six hours of free time per week, prompting a reevaluation of their approach to ensure both goals are met efficiently. The hosts discuss potential changes, such as shorter, more frequent podcast episodes, to better balance their commitments.

Improving at golf and producing this podcast were basically conflicting goals.

--- Eli Strait

Their commitment to refining their strategy highlights their dedication to both their sport and their audience.