

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 28, 2022 • 24min
26: How to Bounce Back After a Bad Hole (7 Strategies)
Bad shots (and bad holes) suck... but they're part of golf. Do you let a bad hole or stretch of holes define you? Or, do you fight through it and salvage the round? After a horrific front 9 in my latest tournament, I bounced back with eight shots better on the back nine. How? By using these seven strategies which we'll cover in the podcast: 1. Stay present and don't let your mind wander 2. Commit 100% effort on the next shot (including your pre-shot routine). All it takes is one good swing to get your round headed in the right direction 3. Play safer than normal - don't try "get one back" on the next hole as it often compounds your mistakes 4. Watch your self-talk so you don't make things any harder on yourself (but don't be afraid to laugh it off either) 5. Adopt an optimistic attitude 6. Accept the challenge - it's not how you start, it's how you finish 7. Forget about your ego and worrying about what others will think Finally, make sure you keep breathing too! Don't send your mind into fight or flight mode and panic from not breathing like normal when you're stressed out on the golf 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.

Jun 23, 2022 • 44min
25: Jake Chanen on Meeting Tiger Woods, Turning Pro, and Swinging Your Swing
In today's guest interview we talk with Jake Chanen - a mini-tour golfer in Arizona with tons of great stories and advice. He became an accomplished player at GCU, is a past Arizona Amateur champion, recently turned pro and now competing in the Dakotas Tour. When you listen to this interview, you will learn: How he met Tiger Woods The life of a mini-tour golfer Why you should swing your swing instead of trying to create "perfect swing" The biggest mistakes that most golfers make in practice that hold them back And so much more. Make sure to follow Jake on Instagram. 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 21, 2022 • 26min
24: 5 Lessons From Matt Fitzpatrick's Epic Victory (US Open Recap)
The 2022 US Open at the Country Club is complete and what a finish! Matt Fitzpatrick took home a massive 1st place check and the coveted US Open trophy. Matt's story is incredibly inspirational and one that provides tons of lessons that you can apply to your game. In this week's episode, we'll recap the US Open and how Matt transformed his game to win the event. When you listen, you'll learn: Why you should play your game The importance of never mentally quitting in golf How to increase swing speed with speed training Why it's vital to track your stats if you want to play your best golf How speeding up play can help you score better and keep negative thoughts away 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 14, 2022 • 31min
REPLAY: Look and Shoot Putting System Review - How I Dropped 4 Shots Putting
If you're tired of 3-putting and letting your putter drag you down... you will love this episode! After getting some coaching from Cameron Strachan and using his "Look and Shoot Putting System" I dropped nearly 5 strokes on putting from 2021 to 2022. This revolutionary system lets you get "in the zone" on the greens and tap into the power of your subconscious mind. It's the most remarkable method I've learned in more than two decades playing golf. Listen to learn why it works so well and why it might be the secret to you playing better golf. To learn more about Cameron's system, make sure to check out https://www.autogolfshop.com/wicked/ 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 9, 2022 • 37min
23: Kyle Rodes on Shooting 58, Beating Max Homa, and Short Game Tips
Could you imagine shooting 58? Qualifying for sectionals for the US Open? And beat PGA Tour pro Max Homa in a match? In today's episode, I interview Kyle Rodes who's done all those things and a lot more. Kyle is a mini-tour pro in Florida who has an incredible golf swing (and game) but an even better mindset. In this interview, you can learn so much to apply to all aspects of your game including mental game, short game tips, and better course management skills. Remember, better golf doesn't mean changing your swing. It's about doing the little things on the course that make a massive difference in your score. Plus, Kyle's enthusiasm towards the game is addictive and inspiring. Enjoy this interview! Follow Kyle on Instagram and DM for 1:1 online/in-person coaching. 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 7, 2022 • 18min
22: Summer Golf Tournaments: 7 Tips to Play Your Best
Buy my golf book on Amazon ("Wicked Smart Golf: How to Play Better Golf and Shoot Lower Scores Without Changing Your Swing") If you're like most golfers, chances are you have some fun summer golf tournaments coming up. Whether it's a member-member, member-guest, USGA qualifier, or a fun trip with your buddies to a bucket list course, it's time to dial in your game. Because let's get real, tournament golf is NOT like normal golf. Tournaments ratchet up the pressure 10X and I've seen scratch players shoot in the 80s and single digit handicaps shoot in the mid 90s... the beauty of competition. In this episode, I'll help you: Reframe nerves to play better Improve your mental game when bad shots happen Reset expectations so you don't add extra pressure on yourself Understand why you need to master your pre-shot routine in practice Why practicing too much can actually crush your confidence (and what to do instead) 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 Make sure to SUBSCRIBE to get new episodes each week so you can play better without swing changes.

May 31, 2022 • 22min
21: Wicked Smart Golf Book - Play Better Without Swing Changes
Want to play better golf tomorrow? Wicked Smart Golf can help... when you read this book, you will learn how to shoot lower scores without changing your swing. If you're like most golfers, you want to shoot lower scores and will do whatever it takes to get there—whether it's buying new clubs, getting lessons, or hitting an endless amount of golf balls on the driving range. But after going all-in on my golf dreams since 2017, I've realized that most golfers don't reach their potential for one reason - they think they need a perfect swing. While improving your swing to become a better ball striker always helps, it's not the most important thing to shoot low scores, especially if you're a recreational golfer or someone without grand aspirations of being a professional golfer. Here's the problem, though… Most advice is hurting your game, NOT helping you shoot lower scores. There's too much information out there and it's easy to get overwhelmed, confused, and frustrated trying to understand the complexity of the golf swing. My goal is simple—help golfers shoot lower scores and drop their handicap without all the technical swing changes. Because let's face it, no matter how good you get, your swing will never be perfect and will always be a work in progress. Fortunately, 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. Buy my golf book on Amazon ("Wicked Smart Golf: How to Play Better Golf and Shoot Lower Scores Without Changing Your Swing") 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 Make sure to SUBSCRIBE to get new episodes each week so you can play better without swing changes.

May 26, 2022 • 38min
20: Greg Lake on Going to The Masters + Short Game Tips
Have you ever wondered what it's like to go to the Masters at Augusta National? If so, you will love this episode as Greg Lake, a PGA Golf Professional, takes us inside the ropes from the 2022 Masters. Greg also shares tons of great advice on our episode including: How to find the right instructor Short game tips to get it up and down more often Why you need a go-to shot and club around the greens And a lot more! Make sure to follow Greg on Instagram. 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 24, 2022 • 20min
19. DECADE Golf - 5 Course Management Tips Your Game Needs
Decade Golf is one of the most effective golf apps I've ever used. In this podcast episode, I'll take you through five course management tips I've learned from the program to help you play better every time you tee it up. We'll cover: Why you should only play one shot shape The impact of body language on your game How to get out of trouble and not waste shots Why firing at the pin is a bad idea (most of the time) If the key to lower scores is about making more birdies or avoiding bogeys And a lot more. Scott Fawcett, the creator of Decades Golf, made a truly amazing program that I can't recommend enough. If you're serious about your golf game, this product can help you more than you thought possible. Resources Mentioned DECADE GOLF - Get 20% off your subscription when you use the code "WICKEDSMART" at checkout. Every Shot Counts by Mark Broadie 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 17, 2022 • 28min
18: US Open Qualifying - 5 Lessons to Go Low in Competition
Have you ever wanted to compete in the US Open? If so, you can... as long as you can make it through 54 holes of extremely competitive golf. In this episode, I'll break down the process of qualifying for the US Open, my local qualifier results, and five lessons to help you play better in competition. You will learn: The importance of creating a game plan for every golf course How to play "your game" even when you're paired with different type of golfers How to stay present and not screw up a good round of golf The mindset to stay competitive but still have fun during the round


