Wicked Smart Golf - podcast cover

Wicked Smart Golf

Michael Leonardsites.libsyn.com
Welcome to Wicked Smart Golf - hosted by Michael Leonard. This golf podcast will help you shoot lower scores and play your best WITHOUT changing your swing. Michael is a full-time golf writer who has written over 3,500,000 words about the sport since 2017 and been playing golf for more than 20 years. In high school, he dropped 50 shots in four years (124-74), played college golf in Southern California, and now plays competitively in Arizona through the USGA, Arizona Golf Association, and Outlaw Tour. He even went to Q-school in 2019 as an amateur golfer. His goal is simple - help golfers shoot lower scores and drop their handicap without all the technical swing changes. Because let's face it, no matter how good you get, your swing will never be perfect and a work in progress. The good news is that you don't need a "perfect" swing to break 80 or become a scratch golfer. In this podcast, he will teach you how to play more consistent golf by mastering your mindset, playing wicked smart golf on the course, learn to practice like a pro, and simplify the short game for lower scores. Enjoy weekly solo episodes and plenty of interviews with golf coaches, elite players, best-selling authors, and other inspiring golf stories. Check out the Wicked Smart Golf Trilogy on Amazon and Audible for even more helpful strategies to play your best golf ever.
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Episodes

198: Q&A - Should I Do a Custom Fitting for my Putter?

Chris, a Wicked Smart Golf listener, DM'd asking, "Should I get custom fit for my putter?" The short answer is YES... as putting is 30% (or more) of all your strokes. If your putter isn't right for you, even the perfect stroke might not be good enough to help you make putts. The sooner you get fit, the sooner you'll learn how to take your game to the next level in 2024. When you listen to this episode, you'll learn: Average cost of a fitting. How a custom fit putter can help you stop 3-putting. ...

Dec 07, 202314 min

197: Offseason Reading - Golf's 8 Second SECRET

The offseason is the best time to upgrade your mindset and take your game to the next level. Today I want to recommend one of my favorite books, "Golf's 8-Second Secret." In this episode I'll give a quick recap of the book and you'll learn: How a routine can change your game. The 8-second secret of 5-time major winners. How to craft three routines for more consistency every round. Why most meltdowns happen from a routine that takes too long or is inconsistent. WICKED SMART GOLF MENTAL GAME RESOU...

Dec 05, 202312 min

196: Steal These Two Proven Offseason Practice Tips

Use these two practice tips this offseason to make effective swing changes AND add speed to crush it in 2024. WICKED SMART GOLF MENTAL GAME RESOURCES Work with Michael for Mental Golf Coaching Download the Mental Golf Playbook (100% FREE) Unlock your potential by taking your FREE mental game assessment: Mental Golf Type Master your pre-shot routine in golf to save 3–5 shots per round: Join Pre-Shot Like a Pro Also, don’t forget to connect on social media: Follow on TikTok Follow on Instagram Sub...

Dec 01, 20235 min

195: 5 Lessons After Playing a Mini Tour Event

Golf is hard - but there is a lot you can learn even from your bad shots and tough rounds. After shooting 73-71 I missed the cut in a mini tour event but learned a lot and can't wait to practice. In this episode you'll learn my five biggest takeaways to help you make the most of the offseason and play your best golf. Join Wicked Smart Golf Academy by 12/1 to receive a FREE mental golf coaching call. Or, check out Tournament Golf Formula to learn how to get started in tournaments in 2024. WICKED ...

Nov 30, 202322 min

194: 10 Mind-Blowing Stats About Scratch Golfers

Do you have a goal to become a scratch golfer? If so, you'll LOVE this episode. Today, I'll share 10 mind-blowing stats about scratch golfers from Golf Monthly . They reviewed 540 million shots and 11.5 million rounds for this incredible data. You might think, how does knowing these stats help you shoot lower scores? Mainly because you'll learn to RESET expectations and help you play better golf. You will also learn: The easiest way to hit more fairways. How to overcome fear of greenside bunkers...

Nov 28, 202321 min

193: Avoid This Winter Golf Mistake

Learn how moisture affects the golf ball and how to gameplan on wet, cold days. WICKED SMART GOLF MENTAL GAME RESOURCES Join Wicked Smart Golf Academy Now Work with Michael for Mental Golf Coaching Download the Mental Golf Playbook (100% FREE) Unlock your potential by taking your FREE mental game assessment: Mental Golf Type Master your pre-shot routine in golf to save 3–5 shots per round: Join Pre-Shot Like a Pro Also, don’t forget to connect on social media: Follow on TikTok Follow on Instagra...

Nov 24, 20234 min

192: 5 Reasons to be Wildly Grateful for Golf

Thank you! I am beyond grateful for YOU... for buying the book, listening to the podcast, and following on social media. Listen to this quick episode to be grateful for golf and have a great Thanksgiving holiday. WICKED SMART GOLF MENTAL GAME RESOURCES Join Wicked Smart Golf Academy Now Work with Michael for Mental Golf Coaching Download the Mental Golf Playbook (100% FREE) Unlock your potential by taking your FREE mental game assessment: Mental Golf Type Master your pre-shot routine in golf to ...

Nov 23, 20238 min

REPLAY: Look and Shoot Putting System Review - How I Dropped 4 Shots Putting

>>Join Wicked Smart Golf Academy Today's episode is all about PUTTING. If you're tired of 3-putting and letting your putter drag you down... you will love this episode! After getting some coaching from Cameron Strachan and using his "Look and Shoot Putting System" I dropped nearly 5 strokes on putting from 2021 to 2022. This revolutionary system lets you get "in the zone" on the greens and tap into the power of your subconscious mind. It's the most remarkable method I've learned in more th...

Nov 21, 202331 min

191: Why You SHOULD Remember Bad Shots Post Round

Controversial opinion - remember really bad shots. Listen to learn why you need to remember bad shots so you can process bad shots and clear your mind for future greatness. WICKED SMART GOLF RESOURCES Work with Michael for Mental Golf Coaching 10X your confidence putting with the Look and Shoot Method . Take your practice to the next level with my FREE mini-course: Practice Like a Pro . Master your pre-shot routine in golf to save 3–5 shots per round: Join Pre-Shot Like a Pro . Learn how to shoo...

Nov 17, 20234 min

190: Michael Leonard on Beating Hulk Rage, Golf Writing, & Q-School

Ready to play better and fall in love with the game even more? You'll love this episode where I was the guest on The Mental Golf Show hosted by Josh Nichols. Josh was a guest on the show (episode #168) and highly suggest you listen to that episode after this if you haven't as well. You'll learn: How I dropped 50 shots in high school. Breaking down what is the mental game. What it's like to go to Q-school and compete in high level events. Why you should play in golf tournaments to reach your pote...

Nov 16, 20231 hr 2 min

Wicked Smart Golf Academy & FREE Mental Coaching

ANNOUNCEMENT: Wicked Smart Golf Academy is LIVE* Are you ready to play more consistent golf? If you want to break 90, break 80, or even become a scratch golfer get excited. Today is the official launch of Wicked Smart Golf Academy. This online training program is designed to help you play better golf without swing changes. Consider this your key to consistently scoring well on the golf course. What’s so cool about this program is that it draws on my own experience as a +2.8 tournament golfer. If...

Nov 15, 202311 min

189: Comparing SuperSpeed vs. The Stack Speed Training

Speed training is one of the best ways to improve your game in the offseason. Trackman found that for every 1 MPH you add to your clubhead speed equates to about three extra yards of distance. If you can add 5 MPH you'll hit it 15 yards (or so) longer, have shorter approach shots, and overall, make golf easier. Don't sleep on speed training! Today I'll compare two of the most common speed training programs - Superspeed Golf and The Stack System. I've used both and have found a ton of success wit...

Nov 14, 202314 min

188: Take a Digital Detox to Get in the Zone

Learn why you need to avoid your phone so you can access the zone, have more fun, and be a better playing partner. Make sure to listen to episode #177 to learn from Dr. Justice and GYRA Golf. WICKED SMART GOLF MENTAL GAME RESOURCES Work with Michael for Mental Golf Coaching Download the Mental Golf Playbook (100% FREE) Unlock your potential by taking your FREE mental game assessment: Mental Golf Type Master your pre-shot routine in golf to save 3–5 shots per round: Join Pre-Shot Like a Pro Also,...

Nov 10, 20233 min

187: 10 PROVEN Golf Offseason Tips (Pt 2 of 2)

In this episode we'll cover part 2 of 10 proven tips to help your game this offseason. Part one (186) was all about the mental game but today we'll focus more on equipment, fitness, and short game. When you listen to this episode you will learn: Hank Haney's 100 swing per day rule. The fastest way to drop shots this offseason (without leaving home). The easiest way to add 10-15 yards to your game this offseason. The two most important clubs in your bag and why they matter so much. And a lot more...

Nov 09, 202318 min

186: 10 PROVEN Golf Offseason Tips (Pt 1 of 2) - Mental Edition

The golf offseason is here and it's time to make the most of your time by becoming wicked smart golf! Today is part 1 of 2 to make the most of your offseason so you can create a plan and get to work. In this mental golf episode you will learn: A way to customize your mental game. The only thing all great players have in common. How Decade Golf can help you automate your thinking for better decisions on the golf course. Why a brain dump is one of the BEST things you can do to gain mental clarity ...

Nov 07, 202323 min

185: STOP Thinking About Your Golf Swing So Much

Learn why you should STOP thinking about your golf swing so much and why a "perfect swing" doesn't exist. WICKED SMART GOLF MENTAL GAME RESOURCES Work with Michael for Mental Golf Coaching Download the Mental Golf Playbook (100% FREE) Unlock your potential by taking your FREE mental game assessment: Mental Golf Type Master your pre-shot routine in golf to save 3–5 shots per round: Join Pre-Shot Like a Pro Also, don’t forget to connect on social media: Follow on TikTok Follow on Instagram Subscri...

Nov 03, 20234 min

184: Q&A - How Should I Practice With a Golf Simulator?

How do you practice with a golf simulator? This is a great question to help you make the most of your offseason. The key to making the most of your time when hitting in the SIM by practicing with purpose. When you listen you'll learn: Why you MUST dial in your distances. Why I have three wedge distances for each club. How to speed train inside even if you don't have speed training software. The importance of creating a pre-shot routine in the offseason to mentally prepare for every shot. And a l...

Nov 02, 202314 min

REPLAY - 5 Golf Course Management Mistakes to Avoid

Learn five of the biggest golf course management mistakes to avoid so you can play better every single round. Remember, your best golf is NOT all about a perfect swing, it's about thinking your way around the golf course. How to Start Playing Wicked Smart Golf Work with Michael for Mental Golf Coaching Take your practice to the next level with my FREE mini-course: Practice Like a Pro . Master your pre-shot routine in golf to save 3–5 shots per round: Join Pre-Shot Like a Pro . Learn how to shoot...

Oct 31, 202314 min

183: Don't Make this Pre-Round Mental Game Mistake

Learn the mindset shift you need to have before the round to play your best golf (even if you hit it terribly on the driving range). WICKED SMART GOLF MENTAL GAME RESOURCES Work with Michael for Mental Golf Coaching Download the Mental Golf Playbook (100% FREE) Unlock your potential by taking your FREE mental game assessment: Mental Golf Type Master your pre-shot routine in golf to save 3–5 shots per round: Join Pre-Shot Like a Pro Also, don’t forget to connect on social media: Follow on TikTok ...

Oct 27, 20234 min

182: Mr. and Mrs. Golf Reveal the Couples Guide to Golf

Do you want to get your other half involved with the great game of golf... but have no clue where to start? If so, you'll love this episode with Mr. and Mrs. Golf (Everardo and Nicole). They're a local Scottsdale couple that created “Mr & Mrs Golf” with the idea of growing the couples golf community. Their mission is to give couples the confidence to get out on the course and grow their own relationship by enjoying the game of golf together. Make sure to check out their website for local eve...

Oct 26, 202333 min

181: How to Calm Down Hulk Rage on the Golf Course

Do you ever get so mad you're nearly seeing red on the golf course? Does it feel like you're the Hulk and not Bruce Banner? Don't worry I get it... I've been there more times than I care to remember. But a simple trick from neuroscientist Dr. Izzy Justice of GYRA Golf (episode #177) provides a great solution. Create a red card. This is an index card that can help you stop seeing red after a bad shot so you can calm down and have the right mindset for the shot. Paired with a yellow card highlight...

Oct 24, 202312 min

180: STOP Worrying About Speed: Here's Why...

Learn why you should stop worrying so much about speed on the greens and focus on this instead. This Dr. Bob Rotella tip will improve your putting fast! WICKED SMART GOLF PRACTICE RESOURCES 10X your confidence on the greens with the Look and Shoot Method . Take your practice to the next level with my FREE mini-course: Practice Like a Pro . Unlock your potential by taking your FREE mental game assessment: Mental Golf Type Master your pre-shot routine in golf to save 3–5 shots per round: Join Pre-...

Oct 20, 20234 min

REPLAY: Shaun Diackhoff - Speed Training, Golf Workouts, and Recovery

Shaun Diackhoff is back on Wicked Smart Golf (he was a guest on episode #77 as well) to share more fitness hacks to help you play better golf. Don't forget, taking care of your body is one of the most important parts of playing your best golf. A strong body will help you avoid injuries, increase distance, and hopefully chase the ball around for the rest of your life. In this episode we discuss: Is speed training safe? Should you speed train year round? How to recover from golf and workouts. What...

Oct 19, 202351 min

179: Why You Need to Create a Yellow Card "Highlight Reel"

An index card can literally change your golf game forever. This tip from GYRA Golf has been an absolute game changer. It's known as a "yellow card" and a great way to stay calm under pressure. On a 3 x 5 notecard write down every club you have in your bag. Then, next to it, write down in detail the best and most recent shot you hit with that club. For example, a few of my "highlights" from this summer include: Driver - Hole 18 at Tuscon GC final day, water both sides, middle fairway. 3W - Hole 1...

Oct 17, 202314 min

178: Change Your Stress Levels, Not Your Swing

Learn why stress - not your golf swing - is the real reason you aren't shooting lower scores. WICKED SMART GOLF MENTAL GAME RESOURCES Work with Michael for Mental Golf Coaching Download the Mental Golf Playbook (100% FREE) Unlock your potential by taking your FREE mental game assessment: Mental Golf Type Master your pre-shot routine in golf to save 3–5 shots per round: Join Pre-Shot Like a Pro Also, don’t forget to connect on social media: Follow on TikTok Follow on Instagram Subscribe on YouTub...

Oct 13, 20234 min

177: Dr. Izzy Justice - Learn GYRA Golf to Hack Your Mental Game

GRYA Golf will change your game forever. I'd argue it's one of the best golf books ever and I've read hundreds! I've seen first hand how it can help your mental game and had some of my best tournament rounds ever once applying these principles. The author is Dr. Izzy Justice and I'm lucky to talk with today on the show. As noted on his website, "Dr. Izzy Justice is a sports neuroscientist and inventor of the ground-breaking technology The Brain Trackman™ who has authored 8 books over the course ...

Oct 12, 20231 hr 3 min

176: Unlock Your Potential - Six Lessons from a 68

Shooting your best scores is easier than you might think. After a little golf hiatus I recently teed it up and put up a great score - despite not touching a club. In this episode I'll recap some lessons that you can add to your game - whether you're shooting in the 90s or 70s. Shooting lower scores is more mental and course management skills than you might realize. When you listen to this episode you'll learn: How to focus on the last few holes. Why the first tee shot doesn't matter. How to boun...

Oct 10, 202322 min

175: Can't Figure Out the Break? DO THIS

Learn the best strategy to keep in mind the next time you can't figure out how a putt breaks. WICKED SMART GOLF RESOURCES Work with Michael for Mental Golf Coaching 10X your confidence putting with the Look and Shoot Method . Take your practice to the next level with my FREE mini-course: Practice Like a Pro . Master your pre-shot routine in golf to save 3–5 shots per round: Join Pre-Shot Like a Pro . Learn how to shoot lower scores every round (no swing changes): Score Like a Scratch Golfer . Al...

Oct 06, 20233 min

174: 12 Essential Ryder Cup Lessons for Everyday Golfers (2/2)

The 2023 Ryder Cup is over but there is SO MUCH to learn from the pros to make your game wicked smart. In part 2 of this Ryder Cup series I'll help you: Play your game for more confidence. Make putting more natural and less technical. Learn to stay in the hole, even after a bad shot. Understand the real reason short-siding yourself is killing your game. And a lot more Ryder Cup lessons. Remember, anytime you're watching the best players in the world there is SO much to learn. Check out part 1 fi...

Oct 05, 202318 min

173: 12 Essential Ryder Cup Lessons for Everyday Golfers (1/2)

The 2023 Ryder Cup is over but there is SO MUCH to learn from the pros to make your game wicked smart. In part 1 of this Ryder Cup series I'll help you: Why you should go for short par 4s. How to cultivate belief in your game. Understand how to play better in match play. Why a faster putting routine can help your confidence on the greens. Remember, anytime you're watching the best players in the world there is SO much to learn. Check out part 2 on Thursday - episode 174. WICKED SMART GOLF MENTAL...

Oct 03, 202318 min
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