

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

Apr 4, 2024 • 1h 6min
REPLAY: Scott Fawcett - How DECADE Golf Leads to Lower Scores FAST
>>Click here to join DECADE Golf with a 20% discount from Wicked Smart Golf. Or use "WICKEDSMART" at checkout to get this epic deal. Today on Wicked Smart Golf I'm joined by Scott Fawcett, the creator of DECADE Golf. Scott is known as the "moneyball of golf" and uses data to help make decisions easier as his revolutionary course management system is changing the way golf is played. DECADE is used by top players like Bryson DeChambeau, Will Zalatoris, and countless other professional golfers. Not to mention collegiate players and elite amateurs (I've used this system for most of 2022 and it's helped me have my best year ever in tournament golf). If you're not familiar with this course management system, DECADE stands for: D: Distance E: Expectation C: Correct Target A: Analyze D: Discipline E: Execute This system makes it easy to pick your targets, play the percentages, and ultimately, shoot lower scores by avoiding big numbers. In this episode, you will learn: How to make your misses "better" Why you only need one shot off the tee How to pick targets and make better decisions The five most important stats to measure (known as the Tiger 5) Why you need to master self-awareness to not let your emotions get the best of you Plus, hear about his crazy experience going to the first stage of Q-school as a 49-year-old amateur. Listen to the full episode to get your PhD in course management and become wicked smart! >>Click here to join DECADE Golf with a 20% discount from Wicked Smart Golf. Read my full review about DECADE Elite and Foundations here.

5 snips
Apr 2, 2024 • 20min
243: Dr. Luke Benoit Recap - 5 Key Takeaways to Lower Your HDCP
Let's recap the epic episode with Dr. Luke Benoit of Rypstick Golf from last week. If you're ready to start speed training with Rypstick make sure to use code "WICKEDSMART" at checkout or click this link to receive 10% off AND a FREE swing analysis from Dr. Luke himself. When you listen to this recap episode, you will learn: The mindset for making swing changes. How foam balls can help you make lasting changes. Why putting is a lot more mental than mechanical and how to practice effectively. Why you need to start speed training = 20 yards in 90 days or less is the RYP guarantee. The 80-year old perspective to help you get out of your comfort zone and play best in competition. Start training with Rypstick now to add speed & hit bombs! Also, check out my goal setting checklist if you haven't confirmed your 2024 goals now that it's golf season! WICKED SMART GOLF RESOURCES Work with Michael for Mental Golf Coaching 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.

Mar 29, 2024 • 5min
242: Stop Ignoring the Putting Green Before the Round
Learn why you need to spend more time on the putting green before the round to start shooting lower scores and play more consistently. 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 guide to become a Clutch Putter. Also, don't forget to connect on social media: Follow on TikTok Follow on Instagram Subscribe on YouTube Buy my golf book on Amazon ("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.

21 snips
Mar 28, 2024 • 1h 1min
241: Dr. Luke Benoit - How Rypstick Can Add 20 Yards in 90 Days (or less)
>>Get RYPSTICK 10% OFF - Exclusive WSG deal Dr. Luke Benoit is today's guest and an episode you won't want to miss. He has a Ph.D. in motor learning and control, a 12X best young teacher, the #1 ranked instruction in MN by Golf Digest, and the creator of Rypstick Golf. Before his impressive teaching career, he was also a professional golfer with 18 wins! We had a great chat and think you'll gain a ton of valuable strategies when you listen to the full interview. When you listen, you will learn: The best way to make swing changes. Why putting is more mental than mechanical. How to get a FREE lesson from Dr. Luke Benoit. How Camillo Villegas "ended" his pro golf career. How you can have an awful swing and still be a PLUS handicap. Why speed training is one of the best ways to lower your handicap fast. How Rypstick can help you gain 5+ mph clubhead speed for longer drives. And a lot more epic golf tips. Make sure to follow Dr. Luke Benoit on Instagram, book a lesson on Skillest, learn more about working together on his website, and buy Rypstick now. >>Get RYPSTICK 10% OFF - Exclusive WSG deal 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 ("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.

13 snips
Mar 26, 2024 • 26min
240: I Shot -5 + 7 Lessons From Full Swing Season 2
Ready to play your best golf? It's time to learn from the pros! In today's episode, I'll share more about seven things you can learn from Full Swing Season 2 on Netflix. As Tony Robbins said, "Success leaves clues" and there's no doubt you can learn from the best players in the world. When you listen to this episode, you will learn: The importance of a strong mental game. Why process is more important than results. The importance of having fun in practice and playing. How to deal with negative thoughts and why they happen to everyone. Why you need to "feel the fear" and do it anyway in regard to entering tournament golf. Also, don't forget that Wicked Smart Golf is now live on Audible. And if you need 1:1 help, make sure to learn more about mental golf coaching now. 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 YouTube Buy my golf book on Amazon ("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.

Mar 22, 2024 • 4min
239: The Best Practice Routine to Prepare for Pressure
Ever wonder why you're better in practice than when playing under pressure? Answer: lack of competitive practice. Learn an easy way to practice simulating pressure and become clutch under pressure. Make sure to listen to episode 237-238 w/Dr. Nico Darras of Golf Blueprint to learn more about how pros practice and why competitive practice is needed to play better under pressure. 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-Shot Like a Pro. Dominate your practice and fitness with the Under Par Golf App. Also, don't forget to connect on social media: Follow on TikTok Follow on Instagram Subscribe on YouTube Buy my golf book on Amazon ("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.

Mar 21, 2024 • 48min
238: Dr. Nico Darras - The "Golf Blueprint" to Lower Scores (pt. 2/2)
>>Join DECADE Golf and get 20% off using code "WICKEDSMART" at checkout! Dr. Nico "Doc" Darras is the co-creator of Golf Blueprint. Dr. Nico had never played a full round of golf before the age of 23 and seven years later is a plus handicap and works with some of the best golfers in the world. Not to mention, countless amateurs that are strapped for time but want to practice more efficiently. His story is nothing short of inspiring and extremely valuable. Today is part two of our chat so make sure to listen to episode 237 first to get the most of this epic episode. When you listen, you will learn: The right way to prepare for tournament golf. The importance of a dynamic warm up routine. How Golf Blueprint can transform your practice routines. How tournament golf can give you more courage in golf & life. Why competitive practice is the key to playing better under pressure. Why nerves aren't a bad thing (and how they happen to the best golfers in the world). Make sure to follow Dr. Nico on Instagram and check out Golf Blueprint to take your practice to the next level. WICKED SMART GOLF RESOURCES Work with Michael for Mental Golf Coaching Take your practice to the next level with my FREE mini-course: Practice Like a Pro. Join the Tournament Golf Formula Also, don't forget to connect on social media: Follow on TikTok Follow on Instagram Subscribe on YouTube Buy my golf book on Amazon ("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.

Mar 20, 2024 • 5min
Announcement: Wicked Smart Golf is on Audible w/Bonus Content
It's official... Wicked Smart Golf: Play Better Golf and Shoot Lower Scores Without Changing Your Swing is now live on Audible with 3 hours of BONUS content. I first published the book in May 2022 and have been overwhelmed with the response. The premise is simple - better golf without swing changes. Here's the thing, you don't need a "perfect" swing to break 100, 90, 80 or become a scratch golfer. And in this book, you will learn 111 easy-to-implement strategies inside my five pillar approach that will lead to shooting lower scores without changing your swing. Here's what you can expect: Section I: Mental Game Mastery Section II: Practicing Like a Pro Section III: Peaceful Putting Section IV: Becoming a Wedge Wizard Section V: Playing Wicked Smart Golf Section VI: Crushing Your Competition Soon enough, you'll become a wicked smart golfer and finally reach your potential. Thank you SO MUCH for the support on the podcast and book - I'm on a mission to help golfers play better than ever! >>Click here to buy the book on Amazon now. Don't forget - if you buy the audible version make sure to screenshot the receipt and email me (michael@wickedsmartgolf.com) or DM me on Instagram (@wickedsmartgolf) to get a FREE secret book surprise!

Mar 19, 2024 • 47min
237: Dr. Nico Darras - The "Golf Blueprint" to Lower Scores (pt. 1/2)
>>Join DECADE Golf and get 20% off using code "WICKEDSMART" at checkout! Dr. Nico "Doc" Darras is the co-creator of Golf Blueprint. Dr. Nico had never played a full round of golf before the age of 23 and seven years later is a plus handicap and works with some of the best golfers in the world. Not to mention, countless amateurs that are strapped for time but want to practice more efficiently. His story is nothing short of inspiring and extremely valuable. Today we talk about a lot of topics including pro vs. amateur golf, the right way to practice, how GB got started, and more. It's the first 2-part interview and the second half will drop on 3/21. When you listen, you will learn: The secret ingredient to better practice. The importance of non-judgmental creative practice. The biggest practice mistakes that most golfers make. How to easily identify your strengths and weaknesses. Why you should play with better golfers and be the "worst guy in the group." How to save money playing golf + how to get your significant other on board with your golf schedule. Make sure to follow Dr. Nico on Instagram and check out Golf Blueprint to take your practice to the next level. 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 YouTube Buy my golf book on Amazon ("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.

Mar 15, 2024 • 3min
236: 2 Essential Tips for a Wicked Smart Warm Up
Learn the two most important things to do as part of your pre-round warm up to play wicked smart golf once you're on the course. 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 YouTube Buy my golf book on Amazon ("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.


