

Wicked Smart Golf
Michael Leonard
Welcome to Wicked Smart Golf, the go-to podcast for golfers who want to shoot lower scores and play their best without changing their swing.
Hosted by Michael Leonard, a +2 handicap golfer, best-selling author, and founder of Wicked Smart Golf, this show has helped golfers around the world play smarter, more consistent golf with over 1 million downloads and counting.
Michael has written over 4 million words on golf, authored four books, and built one of the fastest-growing platforms in the game, all focused on one mission: help you lower your scores without obsessing over your swing.
Because the truth is, your swing will never be perfect. But you don't need a perfect swing to break 80, shoot in the 70s, or play the best golf of your life.
In this podcast, you'll learn how to master the mental game, play smarter on the course, practice with purpose, and simplify your short game and putting for lower scores. Each episode is designed to give you practical strategies you can actually use, whether you're a beginner or an experienced player trying to reach the next level.
You'll also hear from some of the best minds in golf, including top coaches, elite players, sports psychologists, and best-selling authors, sharing insights to help you improve faster and perform under pressure.
If you're serious about playing more consistent golf and finally reaching your potential, this podcast is for you.
For even more, check out the Wicked Smart Golf book series on Amazon and Audible, where you'll find step-by-step systems to improve every part of your game.
Hosted by Michael Leonard, a +2 handicap golfer, best-selling author, and founder of Wicked Smart Golf, this show has helped golfers around the world play smarter, more consistent golf with over 1 million downloads and counting.
Michael has written over 4 million words on golf, authored four books, and built one of the fastest-growing platforms in the game, all focused on one mission: help you lower your scores without obsessing over your swing.
Because the truth is, your swing will never be perfect. But you don't need a perfect swing to break 80, shoot in the 70s, or play the best golf of your life.
In this podcast, you'll learn how to master the mental game, play smarter on the course, practice with purpose, and simplify your short game and putting for lower scores. Each episode is designed to give you practical strategies you can actually use, whether you're a beginner or an experienced player trying to reach the next level.
You'll also hear from some of the best minds in golf, including top coaches, elite players, sports psychologists, and best-selling authors, sharing insights to help you improve faster and perform under pressure.
If you're serious about playing more consistent golf and finally reaching your potential, this podcast is for you.
For even more, check out the Wicked Smart Golf book series on Amazon and Audible, where you'll find step-by-step systems to improve every part of your game.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Jul 22, 2025 • 34min
412: Three Tournaments - The Good, Bad, and Ugly (Golf is Hard)
Get RYPSTICK: The #1 speed trainer to add 10+ yards in 40 days or less (use code WICKEDSMART to save 20%) Tournament golf is a battle and in today's episode I share the good, bad, and ugly from my three recent events. This includes a one-day pro golf qualifier, a 3-day event at Torrey Pines, and the Stroke Play Championship in Arizona. In this episode, you'll learn: Why it's so important to add distance. The mindset you need for competitive golf. How to use the 3P approach after you hit a bad shot. The importance of targets when hitting putts inside 10 feet. And a lot more. WICKED SMART GOLF Recommended Products DECADE Golf: The #1 course management system to think like a pro (use code WICKEDSMART to save 20%). Golf Forever: The best way to work on your golf fitness at home or the gym, with easy to follow plans & app (use code "WICKEDSMART" to save 15%). HackMotion: The best wrist trainer in golf and become your swing coach (use code WICKEDSMART to save 5% on your investment). Wicked Smart Golf Academy: The FASTEST way to play consistent golf. Wicked Smart Golf Practice Formula: 75+ Practice plans and a 90-minute masterclass to practice like a pro. Also, don't forget to connect on social media: Follow on TikTok Follow on Instagram Subscribe on YouTube Read or listen to Wicked Smart Golf on Amazon or Audible (ideal for beginner to intermediate golfers who want 111 ways to play better without swing changes. Read or listen to Wicked Smart Golf II on Amazon or Audible (perfect for golfers looking to break 80 consistently). Read or listen to Wicked Smart Golf III on Amazon or Audible (best for players wanting to dominate competitive events).

5 snips
Jul 17, 2025 • 1h 11min
411: Ben Kolde - Journey to Scratch Golf & Confidence in Competition
Ben Kolde, a golf content creator and scratch golfer, shares his journey toward mastering tournament play. He dives into the mental strategies essential for confidence and performance, emphasizing the importance of pre-shot routines and post-round recaps. Kolde discusses how a mini driver can enhance tee box strategies and the power of visualization techniques. He also reflects on breaking the 70 barrier in golf, offering valuable insights on club selection and mental resilience that can turn a good game into a great one.

8 snips
Jul 15, 2025 • 23min
410: The Mental Hack Elite Putters Use (That You Can Too)
Discover how a consistent putting routine can transform your game. Learn the mental strategies elite putters use to enhance confidence and minimize mistakes. Explore the importance of self-talk and positive affirmations to improve your mindset. Find out why spending less time over the ball can lead to better results. Plus, uncover techniques for resetting after a missed putt to maintain focus throughout your round. Whether you're aiming to break 80 or stop three-putting, this guide will help you sink more putts under pressure.

Jul 10, 2025 • 1h 13min
409: Trevor Jones: Exposing and Overcoming the YIPS
>>Master Swing Changes With HackMotion >>Read the HackMotion review >>Get my FREE Putting Routine Checklist Today, I'm excited to welcome Trevor Jones — a golf performance coach and ACT specialist who's helping players master the mental game. Trevor works with golfers of all levels to help them play with more confidence, stay present, and unlock their potential through Acceptance & Commitment Therapy — a proven psychological approach that teaches athletes how to manage thoughts, emotions, and focus under pressure. In this episode, we dive into The TRUTH about the yips What ACT is and how it applies to golf Why mastering your mental game is just as important as your mechanics. Trevor shares stories from working with competitive players, practical exercises you can use right away, and how to approach the game with more clarity and composure. If you're serious about playing your best golf — especially when it matters most — you're going to love this conversation. Check out his website here. WICKED SMART GOLF Recommended Products DECADE Golf: The #1 course management system to think like a pro (use code WICKEDSMART to save 20%). Rypstick: The #1 speed trainer to add 10+ yards in 40 days or less (use code WICKEDSMART to save 20%) Golf Forever: The best way to work on your golf fitness at home or the gym, with easy to follow plans & app (use code "WICKEDSMART" to save 15%). HackMotion: The best wrist trainer in golf and become your swing coach (use code WICKEDSMART to save 5% on your investment). Wicked Smart Golf Academy: The FASTEST way to play consistent golf. Wicked Smart Golf Practice Formula: 75+ Practice plans and a 90-minute masterclass to practice like a pro. Also, don't forget to connect on social media: Follow on TikTok Follow on Instagram Subscribe on YouTube Read or listen to Wicked Smart Golf on Amazon or Audible (ideal for beginner to intermediate golfers who want 111 ways to play better without swing changes. Read or listen to Wicked Smart Golf II on Amazon or Audible (perfect for golfers looking to break 80 consistently). Read or listen to Wicked Smart Golf III on Amazon or Audible (best for players wanting to dominate competitive events).

15 snips
Jul 8, 2025 • 37min
408: The Wicked Smart Mailbag - 15 Questions From You
Listeners dive into the journey of overcoming a driver slump and mastering the short game. Expect mental tips for better performance, the importance of proper equipment, and insights into effective warm-up routines. Discover how to increase club head speed for added distance and learn about a new training aid that can cement swing changes. The hosts share personal anecdotes and emphasize a structured weekly plan to achieve golf goals, making this a treasure trove for both novice and seasoned players.

14 snips
Jul 3, 2025 • 29min
407: Want Lower Scores FAST? These 10 Lessons Will Help
Discover the secrets to playing better golf without changing your swing! Learn essential pre-round warm-up techniques and mental strategies to tackle negative thoughts. Understand the importance of setting realistic expectations and how visualization can enhance your game. Additionally, find out how to establish a solid home practice routine and the benefits of working with a coach tailored to your needs. Plus, explore tips for maintaining wellness while traveling and navigating digital distractions.

10 snips
Jul 1, 2025 • 1h 4min
REPLAY: Jordan Hagel - The Journey to Scratch Golf
Join Jordan Hagel, co-host of the Member Guest Podcast and mental golf coaching student, as he shares his inspiring journey to becoming a plus handicap golfer. He emphasizes that boring golf is key to breaking 80 and reveals how course management is vital for scoring in the 70s. Discover the impact of DECADE stats on his off-season strategy and learn how to maintain your momentum when going low. Jordan also highlights the importance of developing a strong work ethic to lower your handicap and unlock your full potential.

Jun 27, 2025 • 3min
ANNOUNCEMENT: Wicked Smart Golf III is LIVE!
>>Read or listen to Wicked Smart Golf III on Amazon or Audible. Inside, you'll discover how to find, prepare, and perform in tournament golf: Section I: Tournament Golf 101 Learn why playing in events is the fastest way to improve—and how to get started (even if you're a mid-handicapper). Using the Three-Tier Tournament System, you'll learn how to find the right event and chase your goals with clarity. Section II: Train Like a Tournament Golfer Discover a complete mental and physical blueprint to show up 100% ready. You'll get detailed practice strategies (with printable plans), practice round strategies, and preparation tools to help you manage nerves and build confidence. Section III: Thriving in Tournament Golf Learn strategies that help you stay focused, bounce back from bad holes, and handle pressure like a tour pro. You'll also discover proven techniques used on the PGA Tour to manage your energy, deal with playing partners, emotions, and game plan across all 18 holes. Section IV: Play Wicked Smart and Win Every Format Learn how to adjust your strategy for one-day qualifiers, multi-day events, match play, and team competitions. You'll uncover format-specific tactics, key rules for partner events, and how to manage your energy and strategy to play your best from the first tee to the final putt. Section V: The 19th Hole Champion Mindset Develop a post-round ritual that reinforces confidence and highlights areas to improve. Learn how to reflect with purpose, avoid burnout, and build sustainable tournament success for years to come. This book isn't about playing perfect golf—it's about competing with confidence, making smarter decisions, and building a system you can trust under pressure. Whether you want to win your club championship, qualify for elite amateur events, or simply play better under pressure, Wicked Smart Golf III will help you think, prepare, and perform like an elite tournament golfer. Grab your copy today and take your competitive game to the next level.

6 snips
Jun 26, 2025 • 32min
406: Tournament Golf Mastery To Perform Under Pressure
Dive into the world of tournament golf mastery, where mental toughness takes center stage. Discover effective strategies to enhance performance under pressure, including personal insights on overcoming challenges. Learn about innovative tools like the best putting training aid and speed trainers to elevate your game. From pre-shot routines to effective course management, this discussion offers invaluable tips for aspiring golfers looking to thrive in competitive settings.

5 snips
Jun 24, 2025 • 1h 25min
REPLAY: Mark Immelman - 7 Lessons from Legends + Recap
Joining the discussion is Mark Immelman, a three-time All-American and veteran in the golf world. He shares insights from his book "Lessons From The Best," including the importance of dreams and preparation. Mark recounts a memorable experience with Tiger Woods and emphasizes the significance of mindset when things go awry on the course. He advocates for simple yet effective practice techniques and highlights the value of resilience in pursuing your golfing passion. Expect anecdotes from Augusta and tips to elevate your game!


