The Golf Parent

In this episode of The Golf Parent Podcast, Ryan Addams sits down with Casey VanDamme, head coach of the Kent State women’s golf team, to uncover what it really takes to thrive in junior and college golf. Casey shares how self-belief, resilience, and effective practice habits shape great players, and why building a championship culture is about far more than just talent.In this episode of The Golf Parent Podcast, Ryan Addams sits down with Casey VanDamme, head coach of the Kent State women’s golf team, to uncover what it really takes to thrive in junior and college golf. Casey shares how self-belief, resilience, and effective practice habits shape great players, and why building a championship culture is about far more than just talent.He breaks down the recruitment process step by step, explains the differences between college golf divisions, and sheds light on how the transfer portal has reshaped opportunities for players. Parents will gain practical advice on how to guide their juniors, from setting realistic goals to finding the right program fit, while juniors will hear firsthand why pressure should be viewed as a privilege and why golf’s failures can actually fuel success.Whether your child dreams of playing college golf or simply wants to grow through the game, this episode offers invaluable lessons on mindset, preparation, and finding alignment between player aspirations and program vision.🔑 Key Takeaways:- Building a strong culture requires recruiting players with self-belief - Pressure in sports can be viewed as a privilege- Golf is fundamentally a game of failure and resilience- Effective practice habits are crucial for improvement - Understanding the recruitment process is key for aspiring golfers - Different college divisions offer varying opportunities for golfers - The transfer portal has changed the landscape of college athletics - Parents should help their children identify their goals in golf- It's important for players to find a program that aligns with their aspirations - Everything in a player's life can impact their performance in golf⏱️ Chapters:00:00 – Building a Championship Culture 02:54 – The Role of Self-Belief in Golf 05:47 – Developing Grit and Resilience 09:01 – Effective Practice Habits12:00 – Navigating the Recruitment Process 14:39 – Understanding College Golf Divisions 18:04 – The Transfer Portal and Its Implications 20:58 – Advice for Parents of Aspiring Golfers💥 Sponsor Shoutout: This episode is sponsored by IJGA, the world’s premier junior golf academy trusted by families who want to unlock their golfer’s full potential.🔗 Connect with Coach Casey VanDamme:📸 Instagram: @caseyvandamme🌐 Email: cvandam1@kent.edu🔗 Connect with The Golf Parent:🌐 Website: https://www.thegolfparent.com/📸 Instagram: / thegolfparent 📺 YouTube: / @thegolfparent 🎧 All Episodes: Spotify | Apple Podcasts | YouTube

Ed Oldham, a veteran junior golf coach focused on skill, mindset, and practical coaching. He discusses increased junior opportunities and COVID’s boost to participation. He warns against early specialization and promotes multi-sport play. He emphasizes skills like face-path control, ground impact, and rewarding effort over results. He covers using technology wisely and keeping golf fun to build work ethic.

In this episode of The Golf Parent Podcast, Ryan Addams sits down with professional golfer Canon Claycomb to uncover the realities of growing up in junior golf and chasing the dream of playing professionally. Canon shares his journey from early days as a junior golfer to competing on the biggest stages, reflecting on how playing multiple sports shaped his athletic foundation and why family support was critical to his development. The conversation explores the pressures that parents sometimes place on young athletes, the lessons learned from the college recruitment process, and how the transition from junior to college to professional golf can be both exciting and overwhelming. Canon opens up about the financial challenges of life as a young pro, the importance of setting realistic goals, and whyenjoying the journey is just as important as achieving the dream. Parents and juniors alike will walk away with valuable insights into what it takes to succeed — not just in golf, but in life.🔑 Key Takeaways:Playing multiple sports can enhance athletic skills.Family support is crucial for young athletes.Parental pressure can hinder a child's performance.College golf offers valuable mentorship and experience.The recruitment process can be overwhelming for young golfers.Professional golf comes with financial challenges.Setting realistic goals is essential for success.The transition to professional golf can feel lonely.Enjoying the journey is key for young athletes.⏱️ Chapters:00:00 - Introduction to Canon Claycomb02:49 - The Debate on Early Specialization in Sports05:50 - The Role of Family Support in Athletic Development08:45 - The Impact of Parental Pressure on Young Athletes12:04 - The Transition from Junior Golf to College Golf15:08 - The Recruitment Process for Collegiate Golf17:56 - The Financial Realities of Professional Golf20:45 - Setting Goals as a Professional Golfer23:57 - The Loneliness of Professional Golf26:54 - Advice for Parents and Junior Golfers💥 Sponsor Shoutout: This episode is sponsored by Tour Striker, trusted by the world’s best coaches and golf parents who want real progress.🔥 Use code GOLFPARENT (all caps) at www.tourstriker.com for 15% off everything — even sale items. Whether your junior golfer is chasing a scholarship or just trying to break 90, Tour Striker is a game-changer.🔗 Connect with Canon Claycomb:📸 Instagram: @Canonclaycomb🔗 Connect with The Golf Parent:🌐 Website: https://www.thegolfparent.com/📸 Instagram: / thegolfparent 📺 YouTube: / @thegolfparent 🎧 All Episodes: Spotify | Apple Podcasts | YouTube

What does it take to guide a junior golfer from their first swing… all the way to winning multiple major championships? In this episode, Ryan Addams sits down with Dr. Rick Sessinghaus — Colin Morikawa’s lifelong mental coach — to reveal the mindset, habits, and parenting approaches that shape champions.From building confidence before tournaments to handling the pressure of the world stage, Dr. Rick breaks down the same mental tools he’s been teaching Colin for nearly two decades. You’ll learn how to keep your child’s love for golf alive, prevent burnout, and help them perform when it matters most.If you’ve ever wondered how to develop a resilient, confident, and happy young golfer — this is the playbook.🔑 Key Takeaways:Results-only thinking can destroy a junior golfer’s passion.Confidence comes from preparation, not praise alone.Pre-shot routines should address the mind, emotions, and body.Visualization helps players perform under pressure.“Anchoring the good ones” locks in positive memories and feelings.Parents should model composure and resilience on the course.Performance anxiety often stems from fear of future outcomes.Development beats rankings in the long run.⏱️ Chapters:00:00 – Intro + Colin Morikawa’s Early Years with Dr. Rick02:33 – Development Over Outcome: The Winning Mindset06:40 – Understanding and Easing Performance Anxiety10:07 – How to Build Resilience in Young Athletes12:14 – Curiosity as a Secret Training Weapon16:22 – The 3-Part Pre-Shot Routine for Consistency18:55 – Anchoring Positive Moments for Confidence25:09 – Identity Beyond the Scorecard29:57 – Visualization Drills Used at the Pro Level34:46 – Learning from Mistakes Without Judgment42:02 – Dr. Rick’s Final Advice for Parents💥 Sponsor Shoutout:This episode is sponsored by Tour Striker, trusted by the world’s best coaches and golf parents who want real progress.🔥 Use code GOLFPARENT (all caps) at www.tourstriker.com for 15% off everything — even sale items. Whether your junior golfer is chasing a scholarship or just trying to break 90, Tour Striker is a game-changer.🔗 Connect with Dr. Rick Sessinghaus:🌐 Website: https://theflowcode.com/golf-academy/📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flowcodegolf/🔗 Connect with The Golf Parent:🌐 Website: https://www.thegolfparent.com/📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thegolfparent/📺 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thegolfparent🎧 All Episodes: Spotify | Apple Podcasts | YouTube

💥 Sponsor Shoutout:This episode is sponsored by Puttview Books — trusted by the game’s best, including world #1 putting coach Phil Kenyon. With over 30,000 courses fully mapped, Putview’s yardage and green-reading books give your junior golfer a Tour-level edge.📘 Sign up for their newsletter at www.puttviewbooks.com and get 20% off your first purchase.Junior golf success isn’t just about perfecting a swing—it’s about mastering the mental game. In this episode of The Golf Parent, Ryan sits down with mental performance coach Ben Esposito to talk through the hidden side of junior development.Ben shares how his own journey from high-level golfer to mindset coach led him to work with competitive juniors on breathing techniques, emotional regulation, and performance strategies.He explains how tracking stats, setting personal standards, and preparing mentally before every round can separate good players from great ones.Parents will hear how to better support their young athletes without adding pressure, why silence on the course is often a sign of growth, and how the short game acts as a critical confidence booster. This episode is full of actionable advice to help you understand what’s really happening between your child’s ears during competition.🔑 Key Takeaways:Start working on your mental game earlierSet personal standards instead of comparing to othersTracking stats can show improvement and help with recruiting Make practice harder to simulate tournament pressureBreathing techniques help manage nerves during playUnderstand course strategy based on personal strengthsYardage books provide valuable information for decision makingSelf-awareness is key to long-term successA strong short game builds confidenceMental coaching significantly impacts performance⏱️ Chapters:00:00 – Ben's Journey in Golf and Mental Coaching02:57 – Advice for Young Golfers and Parents05:59 – Tracking Progress and Stats for Improvement08:42 – Managing Nerves and Mental Techniques11:55 – Breathing Techniques and Mental Checklists14:57 – Understanding Course Strategy and Decision Making27:40 – Using Yardage and Green Books Effectively38:45 – Final Thoughts on Mental Game and Short Game Safety Nets🔗 Connect with Ben Esposito:🌐 Website: https://inthegolfzone.com/📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_inthegolfzone🐦 X (Twitter): https://x.com/_InTheGolfZone🎵 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@inthegolfzone💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ben-esposito-a0706a20b/📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/InTheGolfZone🔗 Connect with The Golf Parent:🌐 Website: https://www.thegolfparent.com/📸 Instagram: ⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/thegolfparent⁠⁠📺 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thegolfparent🎵 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thegolfparent🐦 X (Twitter): https://x.com/thegolfparent⁠⁠🎧 All Episodes: Spotify | Apple Podcasts | YouTube

What really separates young athletes who thrive… from those who burn out? In this episode, Ryan Addams sits down with performance expert and coach Liam Mucklow, founder of The Golf Lab and co-founder of the Baseball Performance Lab, to unpack the real science behind athletic development—and what parents get wrong.From statistical tracking and biological age to the role of speed and nutrition, Liam shares cutting-edge insights that every golf parent should hear. You’ll learn why multi-sport participation beats early specialization, how to help your child avoid burnout, and what Liam believes is the single biggest predictor of long-term success in sport.If you want your kid to play better, feel better, and stay in love with the game, this episode is required listening.🔑 Key Takeaways:Statistical tracking is crucial for understanding performance.Parents should focus on their child's process, not just outcomes.Multi-sport participation enhances athletic development.Understanding biological age is key in training young athletes.Speed training is essential in early development stages.Parents should let kids play independently in tournaments.Nutrition and sleep are foundational for athletic performance.Athletic fundamentals should be prioritized over sport specialization.The right sports can develop essential skills for golf.Parental involvement should be supportive, not controlling.⏱️ Chapters:00:00 Introduction to Liam Mucklow's Day and Expertise03:00 The Intersection of Technology and Sports05:48 Understanding Performance Metrics in Golf09:08 The Importance of Statistical Tracking for Young Golfers11:40 Biological Development and Athletic Training14:54 The Role of Speed in Early Athletic Development17:56 Choosing the Right Sports for Young Athletes20:44 The Benefits of Badminton and Other Sports for Golfers27:48 The Power of Names and Connections30:58 Choosing Sports for Kids: Fun vs. Skill32:30 Building Athletes, Not Just Golfers34:01 The Importance of Explosive Sports35:58 Personal Reflections on Biomechanics and Golf37:46 The Role of Parents in Sports39:45 Nutrition and Sleep: The Foundation of Performance41:35 Fostering a Healthy Mindset in Young Athletes44:20 Tools for Understanding Young Athletes46:33 Engaging with the Golf Community48:36 The Role of Parents in Golf Tournaments51:33 The Consequences of Toxic Parenting in Sports💥 Sponsor Shoutout:This episode is sponsored by Tour Striker, trusted by the world’s best coaches and golf parents who want real progress.🔥 Use code GOLFPARENT at ⁠www.tourstriker.com⁠ for 15% off everything—yes, even sale items.Whether your junior golfer is chasing a scholarship or just trying to break 90, Tour Striker is a game-changer.🔗 Connect with Liam Mucklow:🌐 Website: https://www.mygolflab.ca/📸 The Golf Lab Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thegolflab/⁠⁠📸 Liam's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/liammucklow/🔗 Connect with The Golf Parent:🌐 Website: https://www.thegolfparent.com/📸 Instagram: ⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/thegolfparent⁠⁠📺 YouTube: ⁠⁠@thegolfparent⁠⁠🎧 All Episodes: Spotify | Apple Podcasts | YouTube

What separates those who want it from those who do it? In this episode, Ryan Addams sits down with world-renowned performance psychologist Dr. Dana Sinclair, whose clients range from Olympians to PGA Tour stars, NASA astronauts to Academy Award winners.Drawing from her bestselling book Dialed In, Dr. Sinclair shares a no-nonsense framework for performing under pressure—on the course, in the OR, or on the biggest stage of your life. You'll learn how elite performers overcome perfectionism, how to help your junior golfer build real resilience (not fake confidence), and why breathing is your child’s superpower.With grounded advice for parents, coaches, and athletes alike, this episode is a must-listen for anyone raising or becoming a top performer.🧠 Topics include:Why confidence is not the goalThe truth about perfectionism and performance mythsBreathing techniques to reset under pressureHow to support your child without ruining their performanceMotivation, identity, and the psychology of elite successWhether you're raising a golfer, coaching a team, or pushing your own limits, Dr. Sinclair offers a roadmap to excellence built on clarity, not chaos.🔥 Key Takeaways:Performance is about doing, not wanting.Breathing is the fastest way to shift your state.Perfectionism is a trap—progress beats polish.Confidence is unreliable; routines and preparation are not.Parents should support, not steer their child’s performance journey.“Shift when you drift”—recognize and redirect unhelpful thoughts.Fear is okay. Performing in spite of it is the win.📖Chapters:00:00 Introduction to Performance and Preparation03:10 Understanding Top Performers and Their Mindset05:58 Overcoming Common Barriers to Performance08:51 The Shift When You Drift Process11:40 Creating Effective Performance Routines15:00 The Role of Self-Judgment in Performance17:45 Motivation vs. Process in Achieving Goals20:42 Parental Influence on Performance and Motivation28:17 Breathing Techniques for Kids35:01 The Role of Parents in Performance40:07 Focusing on the Present Moment44:22 Superstitions and Performance Anxiety48:19 Finding the Zone in Performance💥 Sponsor Shoutout:This episode is sponsored by Tour Striker, trusted by the world’s best coaches and golf parents who want real progress.🔥 Use code GOLFPARENT at ⁠www.tourstriker.com⁠ for 15% off everything—yes, even sale items.Whether your junior golfer is chasing a scholarship or just trying to break 90, Tour Striker is a game-changer.🔗 Dr. Dana Sinclair’s Links:🌐 Website: https://www.drdanasinclair.com/📸 Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/drdanasinclair/🔗 Connect with The Golf Parent:📸 Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/thegolfparent⁠📺 YouTube: ⁠@thegolfparent⁠🎧 All Episodes: Spotify | Apple Podcasts | YouTube

What does it really take to thrive under pressure in golf’s biggest arenas? In this episode, Korn Ferry Tour winner and historic low amateur at both the Masters and U.S. Open, Neal Shipley, sits down with Ryan Addams to share the mindset, routines, and lessons that shaped his journey from junior golf to the professional stage.Neal opens up about what it’s like to compete on golf’s grandest stages—while still keeping the game fun. From his pro debut to the putting drills that sharpened his edge, Neal explains how the mental game, emotional control, and athleticism all play a role in sustained success.You’ll hear how he simulates pressure in practice, why working hard isn’t enough without consistency, and how parents can support their child’s path without burning them out. This conversation is an inside look at the habits, toughness, and joy it takes to go from junior golf to golf greatness.🎯 Topics Covered:Navigating the pressures of turning proBuilding confidence through consistent practiceManaging emotions at elite tournamentsThe value of patience, simplicity, and resilienceAdvice for parents: when to guide and when to back offWhy junior golfers should also be athletes🧠 Key Takeaways:Success in golf is the compounding effect of hard workFun and focus must coexist for long-term performanceSimulating pressure is a crucial part of trainingYou don’t need your best round—just a steady oneGolfers must learn to trust themselves through the ups and downsGreat players are made through repetition, not perfection⏱️ Episode Chapters:00:00 – Introduction and Neal Shipley’s Background01:47 – First Korn Ferry Win and What It Meant03:35 – Reflecting on His Pro Debut07:15 – Mental Game and Competing Under Pressure09:30 – How Neal Practices for Real Tournament Pressure13:15 – Neal’s Putting Routine and Mental Triggers20:50 – Journey to Success and What It Really Took25:16 – Compounding Small Wins Over Time26:33 – Athletic Foundations and Golf Development28:36 – Diagnosing and Fixing Weaknesses31:22 – Nutrition, Recovery, and Margins of Success34:19 – Experiences at the Masters and U.S. Open36:52 – Playing with Tiger Woods: What He Learned39:52 – Neal’s Best Advice for Junior Golfers and Parents💥 Sponsor Shoutout:This episode is sponsored by Tour Striker, trusted by the world’s best coaches and golf parents who want real progress.🔥 Use code GOLFPARENT at www.tourstriker.com for 15% off everything—yes, even sale items.Whether your junior golfer is chasing a scholarship or just trying to break 90, Tour Striker is a game-changer.🔗 Neal Shipley’s Links:📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/neal.shipley🔗 Connect with The Golf Parent:📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thegolfparent📺 YouTube: @thegolfparent🎧 All Episodes: Spotify | Apple Podcasts | YouTube

What separates the good from the great in junior golf? In this powerful episode, 2025 PGA National Teacher and Coach of the Year, Jason Baile, joins Ryan Addams to unpack the hidden forces behind peak performance.Jason shares the mental frameworks, self-talk strategies, and mindset shifts that elite players use to thrive under pressure—and how junior golfers can build the same tools. From coping with the yips to discovering your child’s “golf superpower,” this conversation is packed with insights for parents raising future champions.You’ll hear about Jason’s journey to national recognition, how to reframe mental injuries, why adaptability is everything, and what parents often get wrong when trying to “help.” Whether your child is struggling or soaring, this episode will change the way you think about youth golf, resilience, and your role as a parent.🎯 Topics Covered:How top players talk to themselvesTurning struggle into growthEmbracing chaos on the courseHelping your child take ownership of their journeyPreparing for tournament pressure the right way🧠 Key Takeaways:Mental adaptability separates top junior golfers from the restEvery golfer must discover and train their “superpower”The yips are often misunderstood and linked to mechanicsFocus is a skill—just like chipping or puttingInjuries, including mental ones, can and do healTournament preparation starts with imagination and pressure repsParents should support without forcing, guide without controlling⏱️ Episode Chapters:00:00 – Introduction to Jason Baile and His Achievements02:59 – The Process of Recognition in Coaching05:58 – Mental Attributes of Top Golfers08:56 – The Importance of Process in Golf12:08 – Self-Talk and Its Impact on Performance15:01 – Finding and Embracing Your Superpower18:02 – Adapting When Your Superpower Fails21:08 – Understanding the Yips and Mental Resilience23:18 – Reframing Mental Injuries in Golf25:31 – Preparing for Tournament Pressure28:32 – Guidance for Golf Parents36:29 – Reigniting Passion for Golf40:51 – Embracing Chaos and Building Grit💥 Sponsor Shoutout:This episode is sponsored by Tour Striker, trusted by the world’s best coaches and junior golf parents alike.🔥 Use code GOLFPARENT at www.tourstriker.com for 15% off sitewide—including sale items!🔗 Jason Baile’s Links:📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jasonbailepga/?hl=enX: ⁠https://x.com/jasonbailepga🏌️‍♂️ Instruction: Available at Old Palm Golf Club, FL🔗 Connect with The Golf Parent:📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thegolfparent/?hl=en📺 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thegolfparent⁠🎧 All Episodes: ⁠Spotify⁠ | ⁠Apple Podcasts⁠ | ⁠YouTube

In this episode, Yale Head Coach Keith Tyburski breaks down the competitive and nuanced world of Ivy League golf recruiting. From his transition after a record-breaking run at Colgate to leading Yale to a 2024 Ivy League Championship title, Tyburski shares how he builds a winning culture rooted in academic excellence and athlete development. Parents of junior golfers will find this conversation packed with actionable advice on practice habits, mindset, college prep, and how to raise resilient competitors in an ultra-demanding sport.Whether you're raising a 10-year-old golfer or advising a teen on their recruiting journey, Coach Tyburski offers a candid and inspiring look into what it really takes to succeed on and off the course.🔑 Takeaways:Ivy League recruiting requires elite academics and top-tier golf skills.A strong team culture is built by understanding and empowering individuals.Success stems from daily intentionality, time management, and self-awareness.Pressure simulation in practice helps prepare for high-stakes performance.Golf parents should focus on long-term goals, fun, and emotional resilience.Balanced practice and reflection accelerate skill development.Multi-sport backgrounds can offer long-term benefits for young athletes.💥 Sound Bites:“Winning is hard, especially in any sport.”“Be intentional with your days.”“See confident targets, not negative outcomes.”⛳ Sponsored by TourStriker:A big thank-you to our friends at TourStriker for supporting The Golf Parent Podcast. From junior golfers to major winners, TourStriker’s training aids are trusted by the best in the game.Check them out at tourstriker.com🔗 Connect with Keith Tyburski:📸 Instagram: @yalemgolf🏫 Yale Golf: yalebulldogs.com/sports/mens-golf🔗 Connect with The Golf Parent:📸 Instagram: @thegolfparent🌐 Website: thegolfparent.com🎧 All Episodes: Spotify | Apple Podcasts | YouTube