

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

Jun 7, 2024 • 4min
271: Stop Making This Mid-Round Mistake to Finish Strong
Tired on the back 9? Does your performance suffer? Make sure to eat and stay hydrated throughout the round. According to Sponer, "Dehydration can not only impact your performance physically but it can also negatively impact your mental game. Your cognitive performance is just as important as your physical performance. Dehydration can lead to slower reaction times, increased fatigue, and poor concentration." Watch this Instagram Reel of my go-to snacks/meals on the golf course. WICKED SMART GOLF Recommended Products Decade Golf - The #1 Course Management System (use code WICKEDSMART to save 20%) Mental Golf Type - The Best Mental Game Training (use code WICKEDSMART to save 25%) Rypstick - The #1 Speed Trainer to Hit Bombs (use code WICKEDSMART to save 10%) Mental Golf Coaching - Get 1:1 support to lower your handicap, master your mental game, and have more fun. Wicked Smart Golf Academy - The Fastest Way to Play Consistent Golf Also, don't forget to connect on social media: Follow on TikTok Follow on Instagram Subscribe on YouTube Buy my golf book on Amazon or Audible ("Wicked Smart Golf: How to Play Better Golf and Shoot Lower Scores Without Changing Your Swing")

Jun 6, 2024 • 33min
270: Billy Mayfair - How to Master Competitive Golf & His Autism Diagnosis
Make sure to listen to pt 1 - episode 269 - to enjoy this interview to the fullest. Billy Mayfair is a professional golfer who's won more than $20,000,000 in his impressive career. Billy was born and raised in Phoenix, AZ before attending Arizona State University. In his amateur career he won tons of events including the 1986 US Amateur Public Links and the 1987 US Amateur before winning the Haskins Award for the nation's top college golfer. He turned professional in 1988 and went on to win five PGA Tour events before competing in 761 starts! In 2016, Billy joined the PGA Tour Champions. When you listen to this interview, you will learn: What it's like winning on the PGA Tour. What life is like now on the PGA Tour Champions. His biggest tournament tips from playing in 761 events. The importance of nutrition to play better on the back nine. What it was like working with Dr. Bob Rotella to improve his mental game. About his Autism diagnosis and how he's raising awareness to help others. The importance of a good short game to play your best golf (inside 125 yards). What to do after a lesson or tournament to speed up success and make lasting change. Click here to learn more about Billy Mayfair's foundation now. WICKED SMART GOLF Recommended Products Decade Golf - The #1 Course Management System (use code WICKEDSMART to save 20%) Mental Golf Type - The Best Mental Game Training (use code WICKEDSMART to save 25%) Rypstick - The #1 Speed Trainer to Hit Bombs (use code WICKEDSMART to save 10%) Mental Golf Coaching - Get 1:1 Coaching from a +2 "Player-Coach" to Master Your Mental Game Wicked Smart Golf Academy - The Fastest Way to Play Consistent Golf Also, don't forget to connect on social media: Follow on TikTok Follow on Instagram Subscribe on YouTube Buy my golf book on Amazon or Audible ("Wicked Smart Golf: How to Play Better Golf and Shoot Lower Scores Without Changing Your Swing")

Jun 4, 2024 • 44min
269: Billy Mayfair - Beating Tiger Woods and Winning $20M on Tour
Billy Mayfair is a professional golfer who's won more than $20,000,000 in his impressive career. Billy was born and raised in Phoenix, AZ before attending Arizona State University. In his amateur career he won tons of events including the 1986 US Amateur Public Links and the 1987 US Amateur before winning the Haskins Award for the nation's top college golfer. He turned professional in 1988 and went on to win five PGA Tour events before competing in 761 starts! In 2016, Billy joined the PGA Tour Champions. When you listen to this interview, you will learn: The mental grind of tournament golf. How Billy got his start as an amateur golfer. His few regrets from playing professional golf. How to mentally bounce back from a tough start. What it was like going to Q-school out of college. The importance of short game to shoot lower scores fast. His incredible experiences playing with legends of the game like Arnold Palmer and Jack Nicklaus. The incredible story of how he is the ONLY player to beat Tiger Woods in a playoff. Click here to learn more about Billy Mayfair's foundation now. WICKED SMART GOLF Recommended Products Decade Golf - The #1 Course Management System (use code WICKEDSMART to save 20%) Mental Golf Type - The Best Mental Game Training (use code WICKEDSMART to save 25%) Rypstick - The #1 Speed Trainer to Hit Bombs (use code WICKEDSMART to save 10%) Mental Golf Coaching - Get 1:1 Coaching from a +2 "Player-Coach" to Master Your Mental Game Wicked Smart Golf Academy - The Fastest Way to Play Consistent Golf Also, don't forget to connect on social media: Follow on TikTok Follow on Instagram Subscribe on YouTube Buy my golf book on Amazon or Audible ("Wicked Smart Golf: How to Play Better Golf and Shoot Lower Scores Without Changing Your Swing")

May 31, 2024 • 6min
268: Why You Need a Consistent Putting Routine
Want to stop 3-putting and have more confidence on the greens? Then you'll love this episode where I break down how a putting routine can transform your short game. WICKED SMART GOLF PUTTING RESOURCES Work with Michael for Mental Golf Coaching 10X your confidence on the greens with the Look and Shoot Method. Get my FREE Putting Routine Checklist. Decade Golf - The #1 Course Management System (use code WICKEDSMART to save 20%). Mental Golf Type - The Best Mental Game Training (use code WICKEDSMART to save 25%). Also, don't forget to connect on social media: Follow on TikTok Follow on Instagram Subscribe on YouTube Buy my golf book on Amazon or Audible ("Wicked Smart Golf: How to Play Better Golf and Shoot Lower Scores Without Changing Your Swing") Make sure to SUBSCRIBE to get new episodes each week so you can play better without swing changes.

14 snips
May 30, 2024 • 1h 13min
267: Michael Leonard - The 5 Pillars of Playing Wicked Smart Golf
>>Join DECADE Golf and get 20% off using code "WICKEDSMART" at checkout! Today I'm sharing my episode where I was a guest on the Missing Links Golf Show, hosted by Steve and Andy. Here's the mission of their podcast, "Two guys either side of 50 with plenty of life experience and big dreams embark on a quest to rekindle forgotten sporting glory by taking on the NSW Amateur Senior Golf Championship." When you listen to this episode, you will learn: How to train your mind off the course. The five pillars of playing wicked smart golf. Easy strategies to improve even if you're strapped for time. Why you need to learn your Mental Golf Type for a stronger mental game. The easiest ways to practice at home to improve throughout the year. And a lot more. WICKED SMART GOLF Recommended Products Decade Golf - The #1 Course Management System (use code WICKEDSMART to save 20%) Mental Golf Type - The Best Mental Game Training (use code WICKEDSMART to save 25%) Rypstick - The #1 Speed Trainer to Hit Bombs (use code WICKEDSMART to save 10%) Wicked Smart Golf Academy - The Fastest Way to Play Consistent Golf Also, don't forget to connect on social media: Follow on TikTok Follow on Instagram Subscribe on YouTube Buy my golf book on Amazon or Audible ("Wicked Smart Golf: How to Play Better Golf and Shoot Lower Scores Without Changing Your Swing")

May 28, 2024 • 22min
266: Mike Booker Recap (5 Tips) + Mental Health Checkup
Listen for a recap of Mike Booker (author of the Tournament Golfers Playbook) from last week and a quick mental health check in after the tragic passing of Grayson Murray. When you listen to this episode, you will learn: The importance of a post-round debrief. Why you MUST stop worrying about results. How to maintain your self-respect during the round. Why you need to stop caring about other to reach your true potential. How to become a tournament golfer and play better under pressure. Ready to master your performance in competition? Make sure to join the Tournament Golf Formula. Email me michael@wickedsmartgolf.com to learn more about mental golf coaching (one off calls and packages available). WICKED SMART GOLF Recommended Products Decade Golf - The #1 Course Management System (use code WICKEDSMART to save 20%) Mental Golf Type - The Best Mental Game Training (use code WICKEDSMART to save 25%) Wicked Smart Golf Academy - The Fastest Way to Play Consistent Golf Also, don't forget to connect on social media: Follow on TikTok Follow on Instagram Subscribe on YouTube Buy my golf book on Amazon or Audible ("Wicked Smart Golf: How to Play Better Golf and Shoot Lower Scores Without Changing Your Swing")

May 24, 2024 • 5min
265: Why You Need a Mental Trigger on Every Shot
Want to focus on every shot and set yourself up for success? Make sure you have a trigger for every shot so you can dial in your pre-shot routine. WICKED SMART GOLF RESOURCES Work with Michael for Mental Golf Coaching Download the Pre-Shot Routine Checklist (100% FREE) 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 YouTube Buy my golf book on Amazon or Audible ("Wicked Smart Golf: How to Play Better Golf and Shoot Lower Scores Without Changing Your Swing") Lastly, don't forget to SUBSCRIBE to get new episodes each week so you can play better without swing changes.

May 23, 2024 • 1h 3min
264: Mike Booker - How to Master Tournament Golf
Mike Booker (author of the Tournament Golfers Playbook) is back on Wicked Smart Golf for part two to share more about playing well in golf tournaments. He's not only an author of one of my favorite mental golf books, but also a very successful golfer himself. As mentioned on his website, "Mike Booker is well known in Texas amateur golf and beyond. He has won a record number of Texas Golf Association events and multiple Texas Player of the Year distinctions. In 2019, he was inducted into the Texas Golf Hall of Fame, joining the likes of Jackie Burke and Ben Hogan." In this episode, you will learn: Why you should never set score goals before tournaments. His crazy story with Paul Azinger during his PGA Tour career. The real reason why all golfers should compete in tournaments. Why your pre-shot routine is your "safehouse" on the golf course. The difference between a tournament golfer vs. a golfer who plays in tournaments. Ready to play better in tournaments? Make sure to download my Tournament Golf Checklist so you can prepare like a pro. Or, if you want all my secrets from playing in 300+ days of tournaments (including Q-school) join the Tournament Golf Formula or learn more about Mental Golf Coaching. Also, don't forget to connect on social media: Follow on TikTok Follow on Instagram Subscribe on YouTube Buy my golf book on Amazon or Audible ("Wicked Smart Golf: How to Play Better Golf and Shoot Lower Scores Without Changing Your Swing") Make sure to SUBSCRIBE to get new episodes each week so you can play better without swing changes.

May 21, 2024 • 20min
263: 7 Proven Ways to Hit More Greens in Regulation
>>Join DECADE Golf and get 20% off using code "WICKEDSMART" at checkout! Now, let's get into today's topic - how to hit more greens in regulation. Having more birdie putts is directly correlated with lower handicaps... hit more greens and you're a lot more likely to shoot lower scores. Today I'll dive into each of these seven tips so you can hit more greens every single round. When you listen, you will learn: Why you need to dial in your distances. The importance of clubbing up to avoid trouble. How many greens you should hit based on handicap. Why you should stop trying to hit different shot shapes. How the right clubs can help you have more looks at birdie. Resources mentioned in this podcast - Tour Tempo app, Rypstick Speed Trainer, and Decade Golf. CONNECT WITH WICKED SMART GOLF Work with Michael for Mental Golf Coaching Download the Mental Golf Playbook (100% FREE) Also, don't forget to connect on social media: Follow on TikTok Follow on Instagram Subscribe on YouTube Buy my golf book on Amazon or Audible ("Wicked Smart Golf: How to Play Better Golf and Shoot Lower Scores Without Changing Your Swing") Make sure to SUBSCRIBE to get new episodes each week so you can play better without swing changes.

May 17, 2024 • 5min
262: Use the 3P Strategy from GRYA Golf to Stay Optimistic
Use the 3P approach from GYRA Golf now (and buy his book as it's one of the BEST investments you can make in your golf game). Also, don't forget to register for the FREE mental golf training on 5/14 at 4pm PST. It's called "3 Pre-Shot Routine Mistakes Costing You 3+ Shots" and it's 100% free. >>Register now to get the Zoom link. CONNECT WITH WICKED SMART GOLF Work with Michael for Mental Golf Coaching Download the Mental Golf Playbook (100% FREE) Also, don't forget to connect on social media: Follow on TikTok Follow on Instagram Subscribe on YouTube Buy my golf book on Amazon or Audible ("Wicked Smart Golf: How to Play Better Golf and Shoot Lower Scores Without Changing Your Swing") Make sure to SUBSCRIBE to get new episodes each week so you can play better without swing changes.


