

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 13, 2023 • 13min
129: 7 Wicked Smart Father's Day Golf Gift Ideas
Not all golf gifts are created equal! Show your dad some love this Father's Day by getting him an epic golf gift. After being a golf writer for 5+ years and trying out tons of gadgets, training aids, and accessories I wanted to give you my top picks. These seven gifts are all available on Amazon and sure to help him play "wicked smart golf." ' 1) Golf Forever Swing Trainer If you watched "Full Swing" on Netflix, chances are you saw the PGA players using this device. It's a great swing trainer + golf workout to help keep your dad stay healthy and playing golf for a long time. Grab it on Amazon. 2) Voice Caddie SC300i Launch Monitor I've tested tons of launch monitors but this is my favorite by far. It's a great price, provides tons of data, and has on screen display. Not to mention, it's easy to use (and works with or without an app too). Great gift if your dad loves to practice. Grab it on Amazon. 3) The Tournament Golfer's Playbook After interviewing the author of my podcast a few weeks ago, I can say this is one of my favorite golf books ever. If your dad loves competition (or wants to play better under pressure) this book will help. Get it on Amazon 4) Bushnell GPS Help dad navigate the golf course with a low-priced, easy to use golf GPS. It's so small you can keep in your pocket and provides front/middle/back distances. Get it on Amazon. 5) Pro Path Golf Putting Mirror This is my FAVORITE putting training aid that I use regularly. After testing out different ones this is by far the best as it helps with shoulder & eye alignment. Plus, it helps improve path too and is extremely well-made. Get it on Amazon. 6) Super Speed Golf Help your dad gain distance and hit bombs by getting him some speed training sticks. All it takes is 15–20 minutes a week, 3-4X using the protocols to start hitting it longer than ever. They have senior versions too. Get it on Amazon. 7) Wicked Smart Golf Book Lastly, I can't forget to include my book, Wicked Smart Golf It has 111 ways to play better golf WITHOUT swing changes using my 5-pillar approach. Grab it on Amazon. Hopefully these gifts help you impress dad if you aren't nearby... but if you are, try to play golf with him and make some memories.

Jun 9, 2023 • 4min
128: The ONE Question You Need to Escape Fairway Bunkers
Learn the ONE question you need to ask when you're in fairway bunkers to save shots every round. 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. 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. 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.

Jun 8, 2023 • 57min
REPLAY: Colton Kalkanis on Speed Training + Dispelling Distance Myths
Colton Kalkanis is a former pro golfer, fitness coach for men over 35, and now a professional long driver. He finished second in the 2022 World Long Drive amateur championship and has big goals for this year. In this episode we cover everything from his time as a pro golfer, speed training, and his life as a long driver. Plus, we cover: His new brand deal for 2023 How he get to 140+ mph clubhead speed What the pressure of Q-school is really like How the everyday golfer can benefit from speed training If you should focus on speed or work on your mechanics first The importance role of fitness to playing your best golf more consistently And a lot more in this epic interview. Make sure to follow Colton on Instagram for daily tips to gain speed and get in better shape. Plus, make sure to slide in his DMs to learn more about his coaching programs. Lastly, don't forget to subscribe to him on YouTube as well. Instagram YouTube 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 lower scores every round (no swing changes): Score Like a Scratch Golfer. 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.

Jun 6, 2023 • 15min
127: Recapping a Bogey Free Tournament Round (5 Lessons)
After recapping one of my worst rounds a few weeks ago it's time to recap one of my best rounds - a bogey free 69 in a tournament. In this episode you'll learn five tips to help you play better without swing changes for lower scores. 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. 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. 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.

Jun 2, 2023 • 5min
126: Putt Like Your Personality - Drain More Putts Instantly
Learn how to putt like your personality type (following the Mental Golf Type system) to make more putts! 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.

Jun 1, 2023 • 53min
125: Mike Booker Reveals His Secrets to Tournament Golf
Tournament golf is NOTHING like a normal round of golf with your friends. The journey from an amateur player to a skilled tournament golfer is often paved with challenges, dedication, and strategic insights. If you want to compete at the highest level, Mike Booker's book, "The Tournament Golfer's Playbook," has emerged as a guiding light. After reading it I instantly reached out to get Mike on the podcast. Despite being a golf writer and playing in hundreds of days of tournaments myself I learned so much from his book. For those of you that don't know, Mike Booker is a revered name in the golf community, known for his remarkable achievements as a tournament golfer. 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. " With years of experience and a passion for the game, he has not only found success but also love sharing his knowledge with others. As a player who has triumphed over numerous challenges and competed in prestigious tournaments, his insights carry immense weight and credibility. His book, "The Tournament Golfer's Playbook" serves as a comprehensive guide for golfers aiming to excel in tournament play. From novices seeking to break into the competitive circuit to seasoned players looking to enhance their performance, this playbook caters to all skill levels. Within the pages of "The Tournament Golfer's Playbook," you will learn so much to help play better under pressure. You will learn: The two types of tournament golfers A powerful on course breathing technique Why a pre-shot routine can help you get in the zone The shocking reason you should NEVER try to "make" putts And so much more. "The Tournament Golfer's Playbook" by Mike Booker is an essential resource for anyone aspiring to become a successful tournament golfer. Think of it as a guide that unlocks the secrets of tournament golf. By delving into the pages of this invaluable book, any type of golfer can learn how to perform under pressure. Grab a copy of his book now on Amazon. 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 lower scores every round (no swing changes): Score Like a Scratch Golfer. 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.

May 30, 2023 • 11min
124: Why Laying Up is a Losing Strategy
Laying up is a LOSING strategy - despite being sage advice. Simply put, when you hit it closer to the green you give yourself shorter putts & shoot lower scores. As mentioned in this Golf.com article, "There's no range — for any skill level — where laying up to a favorite number, club or any other "favorite" makes mathematical sense if your other option is to send your next shot farther up the fairway (even if it ends up in light rough). The rub is that most golfers, especially weekend players, overestimate the potential success of hitting a 4-iron to a "preferred" layup yardage and underestimate the odds of hitting a 3-wood into a safe position nearer the hole. Send it when you can is your best strategy when you can lay up to any distance you want." You aren't better at 80 vs. 40 yards (or whatever you think is your perfect distance). Sure, you might change strategies on some shots based on hazards or bunkers but don't lay up voluntarily for a perfect club or distance. You will shoot lower scores when you have shorter approach shots. Save the layups for basketball and start attacking par 5s to score like a pro. WICKED SMART GOLF RECOMMENDATIONS Work with Michael for Mental Golf Coaching 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. 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. 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.

May 26, 2023 • 4min
123: Use this Insanely Easy Rubberband Hack to Stay Focused
I don't know about you, but my mind loves to wander on the golf course. While meditation and other mindfulness techniques have helped, it's still something I must focus on during the round. To play your best golf, you need to put a leash on your mind (metaphorically speaking) so you can focus on one thing only—the present moment. You will never play your best golf if you dwell on bad shots you hit earlier in the day or get anxious about upcoming shots in the current round. As Dr. Joseph Parent said in Zen Golf, "The past is history, the future is a mystery, being alive in this moment is a gift. That's why they call it the present." You can't change the past and the future hasn't happened yet. Focus 100% of your attention on the present moment to give yourself the best chance to hit a good shot. Another easy trick to stay present is to wear a rubber band on your wrist. Anytime you look back to a putt you wish you made or a future shot you're anxious about hitting, snap it. This is another great trick I learned from a sports psychologist that has done wonders for me on the golf course. As I like to say, snap back to reality! Over time, this will train your mind to stay more focused on the present moment and not drift to the past or future. Always remember, golf is one shot at a time - don't get ahead of yourself. 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.

May 25, 2023 • 20min
122: Q&A: How Do I Score More Consistently? (5 Easy Tips)
Golf is about score... NOT having a perfect swing. I say this from years of being an average ball striker - you can shoot in the 70s and even become a scratch golfer WITHOUT having the best mechanics. In golf, it's important to remember that scoring is the essence of the game, not just achieving a perfect swing. While we often strive for flawless form, it is the ability to score well that truly matters. Your performance on the course is determined by how strategically you navigate it and make efficient shots. When you step onto the golf course, your score becomes the ultimate measure of your skill, mental strength, and decision-making abilities. It reflects your ability to manage the course, overcome challenges, and adapt to different conditions. While a perfect swing may look impressive, it doesn't guarantee success on the scorecard. As you know golf requires a blend of technical proficiency and strategic thinking. Even if you have a flawless swing, your score may suffer if you lack good decision-making skills. On the other hand, someone with a less-than-perfect swing but a strong grasp of course management can outperform you. It's all about analyzing the situation, selecting the right club, and executing each shot effectively. Understanding when to take calculated risks, when to play it safe, and how to capitalize on scoring opportunities is what sets successful golfers apart. Remember that the ultimate goal in golf is to achieve a low score. Every shot you take counts towards that score, and it's the cumulative result that determines your standing. While a perfect swing is desirable, it's your scoring prowess, mental acuity, and strategic abilities that truly define your performance on the course. Focus on scoring well, and you'll find success in the game of golf. Listen to learn 5 easy scoring tips to help your game immediately. WICKED SMART GOLF RECOMMENDATIONS Work with Michael for Mental Golf Coaching 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. 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. 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.

May 23, 2023 • 18min
121: 5 Lessons from the PGA Championship to Play Like a Pro
The PGA Championship is over but there's a lot to break down. While Brooks walked away with another major (impressive after the Masters meltdown last month) - Michael Block also stole the show as the low club pro. But there's a lot you can learn from watching the best golfers in the world. So let's recap the PGA Championship and go over five lessons you can apply to your game to play wicked smart golf. When you listen you will learn: Why you should speed up your routine The mindset to going low (even with bad breaks) How your body language can impact your mindset and swing. And a lot more. WICKED SMART GOLF RESOURCES Work with Michael for Mental Golf Coaching 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. 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. 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.


