In this powerful and honest episode of GoingOB, Craig sits down with PGA Professional Michael to hear the story behind how a golf club quite literally saved his life.

From growing up around the game in Scotland to building a successful career as a club professional, Michael shares what life is really like behind the scenes in golf. He opens up about the pressures of running a business, long working hours, burnout, and how his mental health reached breaking point.

Michael speaks candidly about anxiety, depression, stepping away from the game, and the difficult process of rebuilding himself — both personally and professionally. With the support of family, friends, and the golf community, he found his way back through a role at Nairn Golf Club, rediscovering his passion and purpose.

This episode also explores:

🏌️ Life as a PGA professional

🧠 Mental health in sport

💼 The reality of running a pro shop

❤️ Why talking saves lives

🎯 Creativity, half-sets, and loving the game again

If you’re struggling, feeling burnt out, or carrying more than people realise — this conversation is for you.

👤 About Our Guest: Michael

Michael is a PGA Golf Professional with over 20 years of experience in the golf industry.

He has worked across Scotland in senior club roles, including as Head Professional at Elgin Golf Club, and now manages retail and operations at Nairn Golf Club.

Alongside his professional work, Michael is a passionate mental health advocate. He organises charity events, mentors young professionals, and uses his own experiences to help others who may be struggling in silence.

📬 Contact & Follow Michael

🔗 LinkedIn: Michael McAllan

✍️ Blog: A Golf Club Saved My Life. https://mcallangolf.wordpress.com

🏌️ Nairn Golf Club: https://www.nairngolfclub.co.uk

YouTube: @michaelmcallangolfcom

Instagram: michaelmcallangolf

🎙️ About Going OB

Going OB is a golf podcast exploring the real stories behind the game — from tour life and club golf to business, mental health, and personal journeys.

Hosted by Craig, the show brings honest conversations, great guests, and a deeper look at what golf really means to people.

📌 Timestamps

00:00 Introduction

04:10 Michael’s golf journey

10:30 Turning professional

17:20 Life as a PGA Pro

25:00 Burnout, pressure and mental health struggles

30:00 Stepping away from golf

33:00 Rebuilding at Nairn

37:00 Charity and advocacy

39:00 Golf and wellbeing

43:00 Creativity and half sets

61:00 Final reflections and why Jeff is wrong about Bohemian Rhapsody

⚠️ Support & Resources

I

f you are struggling with your mental health, you are not alone.

UK Support:

📞 Samaritans: 116 123

🌐 https://www.samaritans.org

🌐 Mind: https://www.mind.org.uk

Reaching out is a sign of strength.

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