

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

Mar 11, 2025 • 37min
379: James Berry - How to Think, Train & Play Like a High-Performer Pt. 1
James Berry, a former professional golfer turned coach and author of The College Golfer, shares his journey from high-stakes competition to coaching. He discusses how elite golfers think and train, emphasizing the importance of mindset and practice habits. Berry reveals insights on mastering consistency, navigating mental challenges during tournaments, and adapting to competitive environments. He also reflects on his unique path—returning to college golf in his late 20s—and the strategies that can elevate a golfer's performance under pressure.

Mar 7, 2025 • 5min
Wicked Smart Golf II Is LIVE on Audible + New Launch Promotion!
My new book, Wicked Smart Golf II: The Blueprint to Breaking 80 Consistently is LIVE on Audible as well as Amazon (kindle + paperback + hardcover). Learn proven strategies to break 80 and play your best golf ever WITHOUT swing changes. Thanks so much for the support and encourage you to enter the new promotion. This promotion includes epic gifts like a ButterBlade from RypGolf, two memberships to Mental Golf Type, WhyGolf Putting Thing, and access to Wicked Smart Golf Academy. To enter, you must screenshot a review of WSG II or screenshot that you bought the Audible book. Then follow the instructions below: Enter the WSG2 Launch promotion (must have a Gmail address). Or email me your name and proof of purchase or screenshot of your review to wickedsmartgolf@gmail.com. Thanks for your support!

Mar 6, 2025 • 52min
378: Travis Key - Avoiding Dehydration and Golf Fitness Routines
Join DECADE Golf: The #1 course management system to think like a pro (use code WICKEDSMART to save 20%). Today's guest is Travis Key, the CEO of Strokes Gained Golf. He's a fitness addict, avid tournament golfer, and helping golfers avoid dehydration for better performance. After meeting him at the PGA Show, I knew I had to have him on the podcast. When you listen to this interview, you will learn: The importance of dehydration in golf. Getting into tournament golf and tips to perform under pressure. Why you need to improve fitness routines to reach your golf potential. How to avoid mental fatigue during the round by drinking more than just water. And more. Make sure to follow Strokes Gained on Instagram and check out their store on Amazon. WICKED SMART GOLF Recommended Products DECADE Golf: The #1 course management system to think like a pro (use code WICKEDSMART to save 20%). WHYGOLF Training Aids: The best training aids to help your practice sessions (use code WICKEDSMART to save 15%). Rypstick: The #1 speed trainer to add 10+ yards in 40 days or less (use code WICKEDSMART to save 20%) Wicked Smart Golf Academy - The FASTEST way to play consistent golf. Mental Golf Type: The Best Mental Game Training (use code WICKEDSMART to save 25%). PrimePutt: The best putting mats in golf, use code "WICKEDSMART" to save 10% on your investment. Arccos Golf: The easiest way to track and analyze your stats (use code WICKEDSMART to save 10% on sensors or grips). Also, don't forget to connect on social media: Follow on TikTok Follow on Instagram Subscribe on YouTube Buy Wicked Smart Golf Amazon or Audible Buy Wicked Smart Golf II on Amazon (Audible coming soon).

11 snips
Mar 4, 2025 • 28min
377: 10 Wicked Smart Tips for Better Golf (Feb Recap)
Discover the power of visualization for improving your golf game. Learn valuable lessons from the oldest PGA Tour rookie and understand why avoiding front pins can boost your greens in regulation. Explore the mindset shifts required when playing with better golfers to cultivate essential skills. Delve into the significance of mental resilience, enhancing your game through positive recall, and embracing change for long-term improvement. Plus, get insights on effective training routines and goal-setting for consistent success.

Feb 28, 2025 • 50min
376: Alexander Prewitt - From 15 to 5 Handicap in 10 Months
Speed train with RYPSTICK to hit it longer fast - use code "WICKEDSMART" to save 10%. Today's guest is Alexander Prewitt, a Scottsdale real-estate entrepreneur who's transformed his game in recent years. Despite not picking up a club in high school or college, Alexander's journey proves that it's never too late to commit to greatness. His background as a competitive athlete in rugby at the University of Arizona laid the foundation for his relentless drive to excel in golf. In this episode, you will learn: The strategies used to go from a 15 to a 5 handicap in less than one year. The tools he used to improve wicked fast including Tour Tempo, DECADE, and Rypstick. How Alex transformed his golf game in three short years while running his real estate business. What drives him now on his quest to scratch golf and getting into tournaments in 2025 and beyond. And a lot more. Make sure to follow Alex on Instagram to follow his golf journey. WICKED SMART GOLF Recommended Products DECADE Golf: The #1 course management system to think like a pro (use code WICKEDSMART to save 20%). WHYGOLF Training Aids: The best training aids to help your practice sessions (use code WICKEDSMART to save 15%). Rypstick: The #1 speed trainer to add 10+ yards in 40 days or less (use code WICKEDSMART to save 10%) Wicked Smart Golf Academy - The FASTEST way to play consistent golf. Mental Golf Type: The Best Mental Game Training (use code WICKEDSMART to save 25%). PrimePutt: The best putting mats in golf, use code "WICKEDSMART" to save 10% on your investment. Arccos Golf: The easiest way to track and analyze your stats (use code WICKEDSMART to save 10% on sensors or grips). Also, don't forget to connect on social media: Follow on TikTok Follow on Instagram Subscribe on YouTube Buy Wicked Smart Golf Amazon or Audible Buy Wicked Smart Golf II on Amazon (Audible coming soon).

Feb 25, 2025 • 56min
375: Alex Huang - The COO of DECADE Shares Priceless Scoring Strategies
Join DECADE Golf and get 20% off using the code "WICKEDSMART" Alex Huang is the COO of DECADE Golf, the revolutionary course management system that's changing the way golfers approach the game. Alex shares the inside story of how DECADE Golf went from a groundbreaking concept to an essential tool used by some of the best players in the world, including top PGA Tour pros and elite amateurs. We dive deep into the strategies behind DECADE's success and why course management is often the missing link for golfers who want to shoot lower scores—without changing their swing. In this episode, we discuss: The hidden danger of front pins. The principle of "Point A to Zone B." Why the pin is not a target point (ever). Why missing short is so bad (and how to avoid it). The biggest course management mistake that most amateurs make. And a lot more. Make sure to follow Alex on Instagram and join DECADE Golf. WICKED SMART GOLF Recommended Products WHYGOLF Training Aids: The best training aids to help your practice sessions (use code WICKEDSMART to save 15%). Rypstick: The #1 speed trainer to add 10+ yards in 40 days or less (use code WICKEDSMART to save 10%) Wicked Smart Golf Academy - The FASTEST way to play consistent golf. Mental Golf Type: The Best Mental Game Training (use code WICKEDSMART to save 25%). PrimePutt: The best putting mats in golf, use code "WICKEDSMART" to save 10% on your investment. Arccos Golf: The easiest way to track and analyze your stats (use code WICKEDSMART to save 10% on sensors or grips). Also, don't forget to connect on social media: Follow on TikTok Follow on Instagram Subscribe on YouTube Buy Wicked Smart Golf Amazon or Audible Buy Wicked Smart Golf II on Amazon (Audible coming soon).

Feb 20, 2025 • 47min
374: Gary Christian - Playing With Tiger, Mental Game Mastery & Recap
>>Use WHYGOLF Training aids to improve fast Today's guest is Gary Christian, a former PGA Tour player, broadcaster, and one of the most insightful minds in golf. Gary's journey is anything but traditional—born in England, he played college golf at Auburn before grinding his way through the mini-tours and finally earning his PGA Tour card at the age of 40. We dive into his late-blooming career, the mindset needed to chase a dream for decades, and what it was like competing against the best players in the world. He shares stories from his time on Tour, insights into course management, and lessons that every golfer—whether you're a weekend warrior or aspiring pro—can apply to your game. In this episode, you will learn: Life on the PGA Tour. Getting his PGA Tour card at 40 years old. What it was like playing with Tiger Woods at Bethpage Black. And a lot more. Read Gary's book, Beat The Course Not Yourself on Amazon now. 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 10%) Wicked Smart Golf Academy - The FASTEST way to play consistent golf. Mental Golf Type: The Best Mental Game Training (use code WICKEDSMART to save 25%). PrimePutt: The best putting mats in golf, use code "WICKEDSMART" to save 10% on your investment. Arccos Golf: The easiest way to track and analyze your stats (use code WICKEDSMART to save 10% on sensors or grips). Also, don't forget to connect on social media: Follow on TikTok Follow on Instagram Subscribe on YouTube Buy Wicked Smart Golf Amazon or Audible Buy Wicked Smart Golf II on Amazon (Audible coming soon).

Feb 18, 2025 • 51min
373: Gary Christian - Overcoming the Odds as the Oldest PGA Tour Rookie
>>Use WHYGOLF Training aids to improve fast (use code "WICKEDSMART" to save 15% on the best training aids in golf. Today's guest is Gary Christian, a former PGA Tour player, broadcaster, and one of the most insightful minds in golf. Gary's journey is anything but traditional—born in England, he played college golf at Auburn before grinding his way through the mini-tours and finally earning his PGA Tour card at the age of 40. We dive into his late-blooming career, the mindset needed to chase a dream for decades, and what it was like competing against the best players in the world. He shares stories from his time on Tour, insights into course management, and lessons that every golfer—whether you're a weekend warrior or aspiring pro—can apply to your game. In this episode you will learn: How he got started in the game. Mindset tricks that helped him breakthrough. Proven ways to play better golf without swing changes. The importance of perseverance in pursuing your goals. 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%). Rypstick: The #1 speed trainer to add 10+ yards in 40 days or less (use code WICKEDSMART to save 10%) Wicked Smart Golf Academy - The FASTEST way to play consistent golf. Mental Golf Type: The Best Mental Game Training (use code WICKEDSMART to save 25%). PrimePutt: The best putting mats in golf, use code "WICKEDSMART" to save 10% on your investment. Arccos Golf: The easiest way to track and analyze your stats (use code WICKEDSMART to save 10% on sensors or grips). Also, don't forget to connect on social media: Follow on TikTok Follow on Instagram Subscribe on YouTube Buy Wicked Smart Golf Amazon or Audible Buy Wicked Smart Golf II on Amazon (Audible coming soon).

Feb 13, 2025 • 45min
372: Justin Klemballa - Why Visualizing Good Shots Improves Your Golf Game
Thanks for everyone who submitted the Wicked Smart Golf II promotion winners... if you didn't win, grab these training aids/speed trainers to improve your game wicked fast. WHYGOLF Training Aids: The best training aids to help your practice sessions (use code WICKEDSMART to save 15%). Rypstick: The #1 speed trainer to add 10+ yards in 40 days or less (use code WICKEDSMART to save 10%) Justin Klemballa is the director of instruction at Paradise Valley Golf Club in Arizona and top ranked golf coach by Golf Digest. When you listen to this episode, you will learn: Easy mental game tips for lower scores. How Justin became a top-ranked golf coach in the country. Why you need to spend more time thinking about your good shots. Common mistakes that are holding your golf swing back from better shots. What it takes to think your way to lower scores with smart course management. A crazy story about how I get hit by a car (yes, this is a real story). WICKED SMART GOLF Recommended Products DECADE Golf: The #1 course management system to think like a pro (use code WICKEDSMART to save 20%). Wicked Smart Golf Academy - The FASTEST way to play consistent golf. Mental Golf Type: The Best Mental Game Training (use code WICKEDSMART to save 25%). PrimePutt: The best putting mats in golf, use code "WICKEDSMART" to save 10% on your investment. Arccos Golf: The easiest way to track and analyze your stats (use code WICKEDSMART to save 10% on sensors or grips). Also, don't forget to connect on social media: Follow on TikTok Follow on Instagram Subscribe on YouTube Buy Wicked Smart Golf Amazon or Audible Buy Wicked Smart Golf II on Amazon (Audible coming soon).

Feb 11, 2025 • 1h 8min
371: How Your Self-Image Shapes Your Game + Pebble Beach Caddy Interview
Get started with WHYGOLF Training Aids - the best training aids to help your practice sessions (use code WICKEDSMART to save 15%). Your self-image is the hidden force behind every round you play. Whether you realize it or not, the way you see yourself as a golfer directly impacts your confidence, decision-making, and ability to perform under pressure. If you've ever felt stuck at a certain handicap or struggled with consistency, it's not just about mechanics—it's about who you believe you are on the course. In this solo episode, I break down why self-image is the missing link for so many golfers and how you can start thinking, acting, and training like your future self—starting today. When you listen to this episode, you will learn: Why your identity as a golfer dictates your results. A journaling exercise that will help you embody your future self. Practical strategies to reprogram your mindset for lower scores. Why taking consistent action builds confidence faster than motivation. How to shift your internal self-talk to match the golfer you want to become. The difference between playing to your handicap vs. playing to your potential. If you want to break 80, win tournaments, or just feel more confident on the course, it starts with seeing yourself as that golfer before you get there. This episode will help you bridge the gap between where you are now and where you want to be. Plus, I'll share how I began to upgrade my self-image in 2016 leading up to Pebble Beach. And interview Nicholas Tucker, a 10-year PGA Tour caddy. 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 10%) Wicked Smart Golf Academy - The FASTEST way to play consistent golf. Mental Golf Type: The Best Mental Game Training (use code WICKEDSMART to save 25%). PrimePutt: The best putting mats in golf, use code "WICKEDSMART" to save 10% on your investment. Arccos Golf: The easiest way to track and analyze your stats (use code WICKEDSMART to save 10% on sensors or grips). Also, don't forget to connect on social media: Follow on TikTok Follow on Instagram Subscribe on YouTube Buy Wicked Smart Golf Amazon or Audible Buy Wicked Smart Golf II on Amazon (Audible coming soon).


