

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

Jan 24, 2023 • 15min
76: 5 EASY Golf Tips for Lower Scores Without Swing Changes
Join Decade Golf (20% off using the code "wickedsmart"). Playing better and shooting lower isn't always about making swing changes! In fact, it is rarely that... if you can hit it consistently on the range but not the course, it's usually a mental game or course management issue. In this episode, learn some easy tips to start shaving shots off your round every single time you tee it up. Don't forget to use "WICKEDSMART" for 25% off all Mental Golf Type Products. Take your FREE self-assessment to master your mental golf type: https://www.mentalgolftype.com/a/39011/Hfvo4urF Related Episodes: John Weir: https://www.wickedsmartgolf.com/blog/episode-62 Scott Fawcett: https://www.wickedsmartgolf.com/blog/episode-46 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/

Jan 20, 2023 • 3min
75: The One Tool to Get More Spin & Distance on Every Shot
In this five-minute Friday learn the #1 tool to help you hit it straighter, longer, and with proper spin - the Groove It Brush: https://amzn.to/3Hckql2 Here's how Wicked Smart Golf can help you: Learn how to practice like a Pro (FREE Video Series): https://www.wickedsmartgolf.com/practice 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/

Jan 19, 2023 • 37min
REPLAY: Scott Deakins on Practicing With Purpose & Biggest Mistakes to Avoid
Click here to learn more now: https://underpargolfapp.com/pages/wickedsmartgolf (Use WICKEDSMART10 FOR 10% OFF). Learn how to practice with purpose and make the most out of each session in this interview with Scott Deakins. Scott is the founder of Under Par Performance Golf and despite a busy schedule, maintains a scratch handicap thanks to wicked smart practice! Under Par Golf App is an awesome app that gives you custom plans to reach your golf goals. Whether you want to break 100, 90, 80, or scratch, there is a plan for you. In our interview, you will learn: Why you need to mix up your sessions How to make the most out of each practice session Some of the biggest practice mistakes most golfers make And so much more. Don't let a busy life get in the way of your golf game. Learn how to practice with purpose for your best golf yet. Click here to learn more now: https://underpargolfapp.com/pages/wickedsmartgolf (Use WICKEDSMART10 FOR 10% OFF).

Jan 17, 2023 • 16min
74: The BEST Practice Plan for 2023 (Under Par Golf App)
Click here to learn more now: https://underpargolfapp.com/pages/wickedsmartgolf (Use WICKEDSMART10 FOR 10% OFF). Practice makes perfect… Right? Wrong. There is no such thing as perfect in sports, especially for playing golf. The problem is that most golfers chase the perfect swing, thinking it will somehow lead to lower scores. Trust me, it doesn't guarantee low scores every round. The perfect swing does NOT exist. Most golfers practice by going to the driving range, hitting tons of golf balls, and hope they walk away better. Sometimes they do, but a week, month, or year later, there's always something new to improve in your swing. Other times, they leave the golf course wondering why they even bothered with practice. I've been there myself countless times. There is nothing more frustrating than spending time and money on the range only to walk away feeling worse about your game. In 2023, let's fix your practice issues with a PROVEN practice plan from Under Par Golf App. Whether your goal is to break 100, 90, 80, or scratch, there is a plan for you. Plus, they offer golf fitness routines, short game practice, mindset tips, and more. Click here to learn more now: https://underpargolfapp.com/pages/wickedsmartgolf (Use WICKEDSMART10 FOR 10% OFF). 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/

Jan 13, 2023 • 4min
73: Back Pin Strategy - Give Yourself More Birdie Looks
Learn how to attack a back pin so you don't short side yourself and have more looks at birdie. Here's how Wicked Smart Golf can help you: Learn how to practice like a Pro (FREE Video Series): https://www.wickedsmartgolf.com/practice 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/

Jan 10, 2023 • 22min
72: WITB 2023 Edition - Are Your Clubs Right for You?
Don't make golf harder by playing the wrong equipment. In this episode learn what's in the bag for me to start the 2023 season (I replaced 13/14 clubs in 2022). These changes helped make golf easier and I had one of my best years ever. Heading into the new year it's VITAL to make sure your club heads and shafts are right for your game. Learn the best questions to ask yourself and more golf advice to ensure your clubs are making golf easier. Here's how Wicked Smart Golf can help you: Learn how to practice like a Pro (FREE Video Series): https://www.wickedsmartgolf.com/practice 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/

Jan 6, 2023 • 4min
71: Simple Tee Box Strategy to Avoid Trouble
Where you tee up your golf ball on the tee box will help make the hole wider and easier than other places on the box. For example, when there is out of bounds or water to the right, you obviously want to miss the left so you can avoid costly penalty strokes. To avoid the hazard, you want to open up the left side of the hole by teeing it up on the right side of the tee box. While it won't completely eliminate the hazard on the right, it will widen the hole as opposed to teeing it in the middle or left side of the box. If the trouble is left, tee up on the left side and vice versa with the right side. Always tee up on the side of the box where the worst trouble is to widen the hole and give yourself the best opportunity. If there is trouble on both sides of the hole, tee up away from the one with a bigger penalty (ex. If there is water left and out of bound right, water is better than OB so tee up on the right side of the box). But a lot of holes don't have much trouble so you might think the middle of the tee box is the right spot. Instead, you want to play the side that favors your typical shot shape. If you play a cut, tee up from the right side of the box to open up more of the left side to play a left to right shot shape. Conversely, with a draw you will want to tee up on the left side of the box to open up the right side of the fairway and allow for a right to left shot shape. Don't forget, you have the option to tee up to two clubs behind the markers too. This might allow a better angle and help you feel more comfortable on the tee shot (or find a flat lie) so take advantage of it. This sounds easy but it's amazing how many golfers never think about tee box location and make it much harder to score consistently well. Here's how Wicked Smart Golf can help you: Learn how to practice like a Pro (FREE Video Series): https://www.wickedsmartgolf.com/practice 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/

Jan 5, 2023 • 10min
70: BIG NEWS - Michael is Mental Golf Type Certified Coach
I'm super excited to announce I became a Mental Golf Type (MGT) Certified Level 1 coach. There are only a handful of certified coaches in the world using John Weir's patented personality based coaching system. Here's the thing, most mental golf strategies are generic, cookie cutter advice. But to play your best golf you NEED to cater your mental game approach to your personality. This is the only way to get in the zone, avoid stress, and play your best golf every time you tee it up. I started using MGT in mid-2022 and it helped me have one of my BEST years ever (top 25 ranked Arizona Golf amateur) and nearly get in a US Am event. John Weir was a guest on the podcast and we've collaborated a lot as I fully believe in his system. If you're ready to take your game to the next level in 2023, I'm here to help. Learn more about Mental Golf Type below: Mental Golf Type Review: https://www.wickedsmartgolf.com/blog/mental-golf-type-review John Weir Teaches a Master Class on Mental Golf Training: https://www.wickedsmartgolf.com/blog/episode-62 Take Your FREE Personality Self-Assessment: https://www.mentalgolftype.com/a/39011/Hfvo4urF And if you're ready to invest in any Mental Golf Type products make sure to enter "WICKEDSMART" at checkout to receive 25% off!

Jan 3, 2023 • 18min
69: How to Set Golf Goals and CRUSH 2023
It's that time of year which means you're likely setting goals and looking ahead to the new year. But don't forget about setting golf goals either. When it comes to setting goals it's a good idea to set process and outcome goals; this way you have a plan to make them happen. Listen to learn my 2023 golf goals and the best strategies to help turn your dreams into reality in the new year. Related: How to Set Golf Goals (blog): https://theleftrough.com/golf-goals/ How to Set Golf Goals (YouTube): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U87iIfFr27U Episode #67 (How to Recap Your Year): https://www.wickedsmartgolf.com/blog/episode-67 Here's how Wicked Smart Golf can help you: Learn how to practice like a Pro (FREE Video Series): https://www.wickedsmartgolf.com/practice 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/

Dec 30, 2022 • 4min
68: Master Your Green Speed - The BEST Putting Warm Up
Want to putt better every round? Then make sure you have a warm-up routine that sets your game up for success. So many golfers rush to the putting green, throw down three balls, and start aiming at the cup. This is a failing formula. Instead, you need to focus on making good contact with the putter, learn the green speed, and see/hear the ball go in as much as possible. Learn how in this quick hit 5-minute Friday episode. Here's how Wicked Smart Golf can help you: Learn how to practice like a Pro (FREE Video Series): https://www.wickedsmartgolf.com/practice 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/


