

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, 2023 • 19min
103: Masters Week - 7 Things You Can Learn from the Pros
It's the best week of the year - MASTERS week! If you're like me, it's time to barely work this week and instead, watch a TON of golf. Will a LIV golfer or PGA player win? Will there be drama? Will Tiger win again? It's going to be epic! But instead of mindlessly watching the best guys on the best course, learn from them! There's a ton you can learn from watching the best players in the world and apply to your game. In today's episode I break down seven things to consider when watching copious amounts of golf on TV including: Why you need a pre-shot routine. How they strategically play par 3s. Why you need a "goldfish" memory after bad shots. What to think about during your pre-round warm up (hint: it's not mechanics). And a lot more. Make sure to read the full article on the Left Rough: https://theleftrough.com/watching-professional-golf/ Also, check out Pre-Shot Like a Pro to dial in your pre-shot routine: https://www.wickedsmartgolf.com/routine

Mar 31, 2023 • 4min
102: Use Phil Mickelson's 25/75 Rule to Never Miss Short Putts
Learn this simple putting tip from Phil Mickelson to never miss from short range again. Here's the video I referenced in the podcast that will transform your long game. Here's how Wicked Smart Golf can help you: Learn how to practice like a Pro (FREE Video Series): https://www.wickedsmartgolf.com/practice Pre-Shot Like a Pro (Video Series) https://www.wickedsmartgolf.com/routine Ready to master the mental game? Learn more about Mental Golf Type (MGT): https://www.mentalgolftype.com/a/39011/Hfvo4urF Want to have Tiger like confidence with your putter? Use the "Look and Shoot Putting System": https://www.autogolfshop.com/wicked/ Buy Wicked Smart Golf Book (111 Ways to Play Better Without Swing Changes) on Amazon: https://amzn.to/39zNch7 Need a custom practice plan? Then you need the Under Par Golf App (enter WICKESMART10) for 10% off: https://underpargolfapp.com/pages/wickedsmartgolf Need to add distance to your game? Start speed training with SuperSpeed Golf: https://amzn.to/3gfqj61 Want a more consistent swing? Buy the Lag Shot training aid (voted best training aid in 2022 by Golf Digest):https://lagshotgolf.com/u/wicked-smart-golf ______________________________________________________ Connect With Wicked Smart on Social Media Follow on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@wickedsmartgolf Subscribe to Wicked Smart Golf on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCGt1yzKR05YpqipoLVkr5yw?sub_confirmation=1 Follow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wickedsmartgolf/

Mar 30, 2023 • 34min
101: Camden Nierman on How Clubfitting Can Save 5+ Shots Every Round
Your equipment can make golf a lot harder... or, a lot easier. It's such an important topic that I dedicated an entire chapter of my book to stress the importance of playing the right clubs. Your clubheads, shafts, and even grips play a big role in helping you shoot your lowest scores (without swing changes). After getting fit for a new PXG hybrid I had to bring on my friend and fitter Camden Nierman. He fit me for a new 17* 2H PXG club and it's been one of my favorite clubs ever. In today's episode you will learn: His biggest findings after fitting 3,000+ golfers. Why you shouldn't neglect your wedges and putter. The biggest equipment mistakes that most golfers make. Why your shafts are more important than the clubheads. If you should get fit when you're going through swing changes. And a lot more. To become a wicked smart golfer and play your best, you NEED the right clubs and this episode will clarify all your top questions. If you're in Scottsdale and need a PXG fitting make sure to reach out to Camden Nierman at the N. Scottsdale location. 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 28, 2023 • 40min
100: Why I Quit My $100K Career for Golf (FREE GIVEAWAY)
Wow - episode #100! First off - thank you for the support, it means a ton. In 13 months, I've done tons of solo episodes, brought on amazing guests, and hopefully helped you become a wicked smart golfer. Today I wanted to mix it up and share more about my story, why I left corporate America, and hopefully provide you some extra motivation to crush your life and golf goals in 2023. In this episode I'll share: Why you need BIG goals. How I dropped 50 shots in four years. The biggest lessons in 25 years of playing golf. Why I quit my $100,000 career to pursue professional golf. Why now is the best time ever to play golf (and chase your passions). Plus, I'm giving away some EPIC gifts to celebrate the 100th episode. To enter I want to hear from you -- shoot me an email about your best golf story, golf goals, or the main reason that you love golf! Shoot me an email at michael@wickedsmartgolf.com. Don't forget to enter for these epic gifts too: 3rd place - Get my book "Wicked Smart Golf" and Pre-Shot Like a Pro (my signature program to help you shave 3–5 strokes per round by dialing in your routine). 2nd place - Will get my book, Pre-Shot Like a Pro and a FREE putting mirror from Back to Basics. It's my favorite putting mirror as it helps your putting practice with your eye and shoulder alignment. 1st place - Will get all of the above and a FREE mental golf coaching call to take your game to the next level. I look forward to hearing from you and thanks again for the support for the first 100 episodes of Wicked Smart Golf podcast.

Mar 24, 2023 • 4min
99: Ask Yourself This Question After a Bad Drive
In today's "five minute Friday" learn how to avoid big numbers and save shots every round with this one question. Here's how Wicked Smart Golf can help you: Learn how to practice like a Pro (FREE Video Series): https://www.wickedsmartgolf.com/practice Pre-Shot Like a Pro (Video Series) https://www.wickedsmartgolf.com/routine Ready to master the mental game? Learn more about Mental Golf Type (MGT): https://www.mentalgolftype.com/a/39011/Hfvo4urF Want to have Tiger like confidence with your putter? Use the "Look and Shoot Putting System": https://www.autogolfshop.com/wicked/ Buy Wicked Smart Golf Book (111 Ways to Play Better Without Swing Changes) on Amazon: https://amzn.to/39zNch7 Need a custom practice plan? Then you need the Under Par Golf App (enter WICKESMART10) for 10% off: https://underpargolfapp.com/pages/wickedsmartgolf Need to add distance to your game? Start speed training with SuperSpeed Golf: https://amzn.to/3gfqj61 Want a more consistent swing? Buy the Lag Shot training aid (voted best training aid in 2022 by Golf Digest):https://lagshotgolf.com/u/wicked-smart-golf

Mar 23, 2023 • 14min
98: Q&A - How Do I Break 90 Consistently?
Breaking 90 is a great goal and this episode will teach you how to do it CONSISTENTLY... without any changes to your swing. Because here's the thing, whether you're a 14 handicap or a scratch golfer (or a pro) your swing is always a work in progress. It's constantly testing and tinkering to figure out how to build a more consistent swing. But the good news is that you CAN break 90 consistently without changing your swing. In this episode we'll cover: Why you need a pre-shot routine How to play par 5s to make more birdies Two equipment changes that will change your game Why you need a pre-round routine to avoid injuries and play better And a lot more. Don't forget to read the full article on how to break 90 with 15 more tips here: https://theleftrough.com/how-to-break-90-without-changing-your-swing/ ---- Here's how Wicked Smart Golf can help you: Learn how to practice like a Pro (FREE Video Series): https://www.wickedsmartgolf.com/practice Pre-Shot Like a Pro (Video Series) https://www.wickedsmartgolf.com/routine Ready to master the mental game? Learn more about Mental Golf Type (MGT): https://www.mentalgolftype.com/a/39011/Hfvo4urF Want to have Tiger like confidence with your putter? Use the "Look and Shoot Putting System": https://www.autogolfshop.com/wicked/ Buy Wicked Smart Golf Book (111 Ways to Play Better Without Swing Changes) on Amazon: https://amzn.to/39zNch7 Need a custom practice plan? Then you need the Under Par Golf App (enter WICKESMART10) for 10% off: https://underpargolfapp.com/pages/wickedsmartgolf Need to add distance to your game? Start speed training with SuperSpeed Golf: https://amzn.to/3gfqj61 Want a more consistent swing? Buy the Lag Shot training aid (voted best training aid in 2022 by Golf Digest):https://lagshotgolf.com/u/wicked-smart-golf

Mar 21, 2023 • 22min
97: The ONE Thing You Need Every Round to Play Great Golf
After just finishing a 4-day Arizona golf event I had to share a few mental game tips. Because if you've ever played in tournament golf, you know it's a grind... especially four days worth of golf. In today's episode you will learn: Why you should sign up for a tournament The mindset you need every time you tee it up What question to ask yourself after a bad tee shot Why you need a "7-shot" rule to accept bad shots and have more fun Here's how Wicked Smart Golf can help you: Learn how to practice like a Pro (FREE Video Series): https://www.wickedsmartgolf.com/practice Pre-Shot Like a Pro (Video Series) https://www.wickedsmartgolf.com/routine Ready to master the mental game? Learn more about Mental Golf Type (MGT): https://www.mentalgolftype.com/a/39011/Hfvo4urF Want to have Tiger like confidence with your putter? Use the "Look and Shoot Putting System": https://www.autogolfshop.com/wicked/ Buy Wicked Smart Golf Book (111 Ways to Play Better Without Swing Changes) on Amazon: https://amzn.to/39zNch7 Need a custom practice plan? Then you need the Under Par Golf App (enter WICKESMART10) for 10% off: https://underpargolfapp.com/pages/wickedsmartgolf Need to add distance to your game? Start speed training with SuperSpeed Golf: https://amzn.to/3gfqj61 Want a more consistent swing? Buy the Lag Shot training aid (voted best training aid in 2022 by Golf Digest):https://lagshotgolf.com/u/wicked-smart-golf

Mar 17, 2023 • 4min
96: Speed Up Your Routine to Play Better (Tee to Green)
Learn the perfect timing of a pre-shot routine to help you hit more fairways, greens, and drain more putts. This simple tip might just change the way you play golf forever. Here's how Wicked Smart Golf can help you: Pre-Shot Like a Pro (Video Series) https://www.wickedsmartgolf.com/routine Learn how to practice like a Pro (FREE Video Series): https://www.wickedsmartgolf.com/practice

Mar 16, 2023 • 40min
95. Bryce Cope on Bucket List Courses & Mastering Swing Changes
Bryce Cope is a Virginia Beach based coach with more than 20 years of golf experience. In 2021, he started sharing his teaching on social media and within 18 months has more than 100,000 followers on both TikTok and Instagram. I reached out to Bryce in January as I was going through a slump and he helped me fix my game FAST. In this episode we'll discuss: The most memorable ace of his life How to make swing changes in season Some of the biggest amateur golf mistakes to avoid What it's like playing some of the best bucket list courses How he grew two social media accounts to more than 100K in less than 18 months And a lot more. It was a great chat with a fellow golfer who loves the game and is committed to helping people play better and have more fun. If your swing needs help, make sure to reach out to Bryce for a lesson on Skillest today. You can follow Bryce on TikTok and or Instagram for daily golf tips. https://www.instagram.com/brycecopegolf/ https://www.tiktok.com/@brycecopegolf

Mar 14, 2023 • 20min
94: This Mind Blowing Amateur Golf Study Changes Everything
A Golf Monthly article titled "10 Mind Blowing Amateur Golf Stats" is about to blow your mind! Arccos Golf tracked 540 million shots over 11.5 million rounds using their patented Smart Sensors. The data is shocking and help you reset expectations to start playing better golf. In this episode I'll review some of the biggest findings and help you shoot lower scores with better course management. Remember, the right expectations can reduce pressure and help you play more consistently (not to mention have more fun). Read the full study here: https://www.golfmonthly.com/features/10-mind-blowing-amateur-golfer-stats? Buy Arccos Smart Sensors on Amazon: https://amzn.to/3mjj28o Connect With Wicked Smart on Social Media Follow on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@wickedsmartgolf Subscribe to Wicked Smart Golf on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCGt1yzKR05YpqipoLVkr5yw?sub_confirmation=1 Follow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wickedsmartgolf/


