GS#982 Summary In this episode Stephen Baker shares his journey into golf, discussing how he found the sport as a perfect escape from his career as a courtroom lawyer. He explores the integration of mental performance techniques into his golf game, emphasizing the importance of emotional control and the mental game in sports. Baker draws parallels between golf and poker, highlighting the psychological aspects of decision-making under pressure. The conversation delves into the concept of flow states, explaining how they can enhance performance in golf and other fields. Finally, Baker outlines the four stages of the flow cycle, providing insights into how to achieve and maintain a flow state for optimal performance. He also addresses the concept of emotional hijack and how it can impact performance, offering strategies to overcome self-sabotage. The discussion culminates in the understanding that recovery is essential for sustaining flow and improving overall performance. Learn more at sbaker.life TakeawaysThe four phases of flow state are struggle, release, flow, and recovery.Calmness in my game has improved my performance.Emotional control is crucial in golf and life.Poker and golf share psychological similarities.Flow states enhance performance in sports.Relaxation is key to achieving flow states.The brain needs breaks to integrate skills.Understanding the flow cycle can improve performance. Recovery is essential for high performance.Mental recovery is as important as physical recovery.Visualization can help achieve flow states.Flow states are personal experiences that vary by skill level.Emotional hijack can negatively impact performance.Self-sabotage can be overcome with mental training.Please check out our new and updated website at golfsmarter.com! While there, you'll receive three free gifts when you post an honest review about Golf Smarter the podcast. You can also get free gifts for recording a show opening by clicking on "Record Your Show Open Here!" tab on the right side of the page. Please take a few minutes to fill out our survey, which will also provide you with a link to Tony Manzoni's video! Follow @golfsmarter on Instagram, X, Facebook, TikTok, YouTube. See our daily highlights and helpful insights from our interviews on the podcast. Thanks so much for checking it out and providing your feedback. This episode is sponsored by Indeed. Please visit indeed.com/GOLFSMARTER and get a $75 SPONSORED JOB CREDIT. Terms and conditions apply.   This episode is sponsored by HIMS. Start your free online visit today HIMS.com/golfsmarter and received personalized ED treatment options.

GSfMO#377 March 26, 2013.  Aimpoint putting continues to be our concentration in this Members Only episode with PGA and Aimpoint Certified Instructor John Graham. Here's a couple of his comments: "I never misread the direction of the break anymore",  "If it takes more than 20 seconds to read a straight forward putt, you're doing it wrong" and "...the hardest putts to read are the flat ones".John can be found on Social Media @JohnGrahamGolf  and JohnGrahamGolf.comLet's play golf together next Spring! Our next Golf Smarter Adventure will be on the Robert Trent Jones Trail in Birmingham, AL on March 26-30, 2025.  Space is limited. Deadline to register is January 15, 2025! Learn more and reserve your spot now at tmigolf.com/golfsmarter    Follow @golfsmarter on Instagram, X, Facebook, TikTok, YouTube for daily highlights and helpful insights from our interviews on the podcast. We also post articles and video shorts on LinkedIn @FredGreene (from Novato, CA).    This episode is brought to you by HIMS. Start your free online visit today at hims.com/golfsmarter. The products mentioned are chewable compounded products which are not approved by or verified for safety or effectiveness by the FDA. Prescriptions require an online consultation with a healthcare provider who will determine if appropriate. Restrictions apply. See website for details and important safety information. Subscription required. Price varies based on product and subscription plan.

#981 Summary In this enlightening conversation, Dr. Ellen Langer discusses the profound impact of mindfulness on golf and life. She emphasizes that mindfulness is not just about meditation but a way of being that enhances performance, reduces stress, and improves overall well-being. Through various studies, she illustrates how being mindful can lead to better health outcomes and a more enjoyable experience in sports and daily activities. The discussion also touches on the importance of intention, the mind-body connection, and how to embrace uncertainty in life. TakeawaysMindfulness can be applied to all activities, including golf.Practicing mindfully leads to better performance and enjoyment.Mindfulness is about noticing and being present, not just meditation.Stress is often a result of mindless thinking and can be managed through mindfulness.Mindfulness enhances our ability to make choices and adapt to situations.Engaging in mindfulness can lead to improved health and longevity.The mind-body connection is crucial for overall well-being.Taking ourselves less seriously can enhance our enjoyment of activities.FINAL CALL for us to play golf together this Spring! Our next Golf Smarter Adventure will be on the Robert Trent Jones Trail in Birmingham, AL on March 26-30, 2025.  Space is limited to 3 foursomes. Deadline to register is January 15.  Learn more and reserve your spot now at tmigolf.com/golfsmarter   Please check out our new and updated website at golfsmarter.com! While there, you'll receive three free gifts when you post an honest review about Golf Smarter the podcast. You can also get free gifts for recording a show opening by clicking on "Record Your Show Open Here!" tab on the right side of the page.  Please take a few minutes to fill out our survey, which will also provide you with a link to Tony Manzoni's video! Follow @golfsmarter on Instagram, X, Facebook, TikTok, YouTube. See our daily highlights and helpful insights from our interviews on the podcast. Thanks so much for checking it out and providing your feedback.This episode is sponsored by HIMS. Start your free online visit today HIMS.com/golfsmarter and received personalized ED treatment options.

GSfMO#375 March 19, 2013 Aimpoint Putting returns with John Graham who teaches this method around the world. He loves this method because every putt can be proven. Our Short Game Academy answers a question about whether we should flatten the lie of our wedges like the Pros.Let's play golf together next Spring! Our next Golf Smarter Adventure will be on the Robert Trent Jones Trail in Birmingham, AL on March 26-30, 2025.  Space is limited. Learn more and reserve your spot now at tmigolf.com/golfsmarter    Follow @golfsmarter on Instagram, X, Facebook, TikTok, YouTube for daily highlights and helpful insights from our interviews on the podcast. We also post articles and video shorts on LinkedIn @FredGreene (from Novato, CA).

#980 Summary In this episode Andrew Walters, a professional engineer & surveyer digs into the intricacies of putting and green reading. The discussion focuses on the importance of understanding the science behind putting, debunk common myths, and introduce the Expert Green Reading Operating System (EGOS). Walters shares his experiences working with professional golfers and explains the unique design of his putter, emphasizing how anyone can improve their putting skills through proper techniques and understanding of green reading. Andrew also shares his insights on the art of putting, focusing on the grip, stance, and the concept of angle gaps. He emphasizes the importance of proper alignment and understanding the slope of the green to improve putting accuracy. Learn more at expertgreenreading.com and check out Andy's books!TakeawaysThe Expert Green Reading Operating System (EGOS) is based on pure math.Many common beliefs about green reading are myths.Optical illusions can lead to misreading greens.Speed and aim are crucial for successful putting.Professional golfers often have biases against new green reading methods.Anyone can learn to read greens effectively with the right techniques.Understanding the math behind putting can enhance performance. You need to take a wide stance for proper alignment.Standing where the ball will break is crucial.Avoid distractions from the surrounding topography.Double breakers require careful reading and adjustment.Proper grip and vertical alignment are essential for accuracy.The putter acts as a surveying instrument for alignment.Let's play golf together this Spring! Our next Golf Smarter Adventure will be on the Robert Trent Jones Trail in Birmingham, AL on March 26-30, 2025.  Space is limited to 3 foursomes. Deadline to register is January 15.  Learn more and reserve your spot now at tmigolf.com/golfsmarter  Follow @golfsmarter on Instagram, X, Facebook, TikTok, YouTube for daily highlights and helpful insights from our interviews on the podcast. We also post articles and video shorts on LinkedIn @FredGreene (from Novato, CA).    Receive three free gifts when you post an honest review about Golf Smarter on your favorite podcast app including Apple Podcasts and Spotify.  

GS#372fMO February 26, 2013 Author Cary Valentine has suffered through what many golfers regularly experience -- “I SUCK!” As we discuss his book, “In Love Forever” he translates his theories on how to improve your game and attitude by putting the breaks on the negative train.Let's play golf together next Spring! Our next Golf Smarter Adventure will be on the Robert Trent Jones Trail in Birmingham, AL on March 26-30, 2025.  Space is limited. Learn more and reserve your spot now at tmigolf.com/golfsmarter    Follow @golfsmarter on Instagram, X, Facebook, TikTok, YouTube for daily highlights and helpful insights from our interviews on the podcast. We also post articles and video shorts on LinkedIn @FredGreene (from Novato, CA).    This episode is brought to you by  the all new T-Rex3 created by Amazfit which is available at us.amazfit.com/golfsmarter as well as major retailers Best Buy, Target, Walmartand Amazon, but when you purchase at us.amazfit.com/golfsmarter, you’ll get 15% off with the promo code GolfSmarter.This episode is sponsored by SelectQuote. Make sure you get the right life insurance for YOU, for LESS, at selectquote.com/golfsmarter.

#979 Launching Our 20th Year! Summary  Our guest is PGA professional, broadcaster, author, speaker, Steve Scott talking about his journey in the golf world, his experiences playing against Tiger Woods, and his transition into golf media. Scott shares insights on golf course architecture, the dynamics of caddying for a spouse, and the unique perspective he brings as a broadcaster. We also delve into the current state of golf, discussing the dynamics between the PGA Tour and LIV Tour, the evolution of golf instruction, and the importance of balancing practice with actual play. We explore emerging formats in golf, the impact of technology on instruction, and share valuable insights and advice for golfers at all levels. Learn more at stevescottpga.com and hole19events.com TakeawaysSteve Scott played professionally for six years before shifting focus.A passion for golf architecture developed through exposure to great courses.Playing against Tiger Woods was a pivotal moment in Scott's career.Caddying for a spouse can be both rewarding and challenging.Scott transitioned into golf media, leveraging his communication skills.Broadcasting allows Scott to share insights from his PGA experience.The future of golf is uncertain, especially between PGA and LIV.Emerging formats like TGL could change golf's landscape.Players are confused about the future of golf due to tight-lipped meetings.Golf instruction is more accessible than ever through online platforms.Balancing practice and play is essential for improvement.The best golf advice often revolves around simple mechanics.Understanding the role of the lead arm can improve swing controlLet's play golf together this Spring! Our next Golf Smarter Adventure will be on the Robert Trent Jones Trail in Birmingham, AL on March 26-30, 2025.  Space is limited to 3 foursomes. Deadline to register is January 15.  Learn more and reserve your spot now at tmigolf.com/golfsmarter   Follow @golfsmarter on Instagram, X, Facebook, TikTok, YouTube for daily highlights and helpful insights from our interviews on the podcast. We also post articles and video shorts on LinkedIn @FredGreene (from Novato, CA).    Receive three free gifts when you post an honest review about Golf Smarter on your favorite podcast app including Apple Podcasts and Spotify.  This episode is brought to you by  the all new T-Rex3 created by Amazfit which is available at us.amazfit.com/golfsmarter as well as major retailers Best Buy, Target, Walmartand Amazon, but when you purchase at us.amazfit.com/golfsmarter, you’ll get 15% off with the promo code GolfSmarter.This episode is sponsored by SelectQuote. Make sure you get the right life insurance for YOU, for LESS, at selectquote.com/golfsmarter.

GS#371 February 19, 2013 - Playing time at The Palms in La Quinta average 3:15! GM JD Ebersberger discusses increasing pace of play.  Terry Koehler of SCOR Golf answers questions on setting short game goals.Let's play golf together next Spring! Our next Golf Smarter Adventure will be on the Robert Trent Jones Trail in Birmingham, AL on March 26-30, 2025.  Space is limited. Learn more and reserve your spot now at tmigolf.com/golfsmarter    Follow @golfsmarter on Instagram, X, Facebook, TikTok, YouTube for daily highlights and helpful insights from our interviews on the podcast. We also post articles and video shorts on LinkedIn @FredGreene (from Novato, CA).    This episode is sponsored by Indeed. Please visit indeed.com/GOLFSMARTER and get a $75 SPONSORED JOB CREDIT. Terms and conditions apply.   This episode is brought to you by  the all new T-Rex3 created by Amazfit which is available at us.amazfit.com/golfsmarter as well as major retailers Best Buy, Target, Walmartand Amazon, but when you purchase at us.amazfit.com/golfsmarter, you’ll get 15% off with the promo code GolfSmarter.This episode is sponsored by SelectQuote. Make sure you get the right life insurance for YOU, for LESS, at selectquote.com/golfsmarter.This episode is also brought to you by Waitlist from Wine Access. Visit wineaccess.com/waitlist and use promo code "golfsmarter" for $25 off your first shipment!

#978 Summary  Karl Morris returns to delve into the mental aspects of golf, discussing the importance of perception, acceptance, and intention in improving performance. We explore how the game can be a sanctuary for reflection and mindfulness, emphasizing the need to focus on impact rather than mechanics. We also touch on aging, the flow state, and the significance of engaging with others on the course. Morris shares insights from influential coaches and highlights the journey of podcasting as a means to share knowledge and foster community among golfers. Karl's podcast is called The Mind Caddie.TakeawaysGolf can be perceived as a place of opportunity or threat.Acceptance of results is crucial for enjoyment in golf.Focusing on impact is more important than swing mechanics.Intention, attention, and attitude are key mental skills.Imagination can enhance performance on the golf course.Walking meditation can improve mindfulness while playing golf.Engagement with others on the course enhances the experience.Aging can impact mindset, but golf remains a valuable cognitive exercise.Simplifying the game leads to better performance and enjoyment.Let's play golf together next Spring! Our next Golf Smarter Adventure will be on the Robert Trent Jones Trail in Birmingham, AL on March 26-30, 2025.  Space is limited. Learn more and reserve your spot now at tmigolf.com/golfsmarter  Follow @golfsmarter on Instagram, X, Facebook, TikTok, YouTube for daily highlights and helpful insights from our interviews on the podcast. We also post articles and video shorts on LinkedIn @FredGreene (from Novato, CA).    Receive three free gifts when you post an honest review about Golf Smarter on your favorite podcast app including Apple Podcasts and Spotify. Listen for details. This episode is sponsored by Indeed. Please visit indeed.com/GOLFSMARTER and get a $75 SPONSORED JOB CREDIT. Terms and conditions apply.   This episode is brought to you by  the all new T-Rex3 created by Amazfit which is available at us.amazfit.com/golfsmarter as well as major retailers Best Buy, Target, Walmartand Amazon, but when you purchase at us.amazfit.com/golfsmarter, you’ll get 15% off with the promo code GolfSmarter.This episode is sponsored by SelectQuote. Make sure you get the right life insurance for YOU, for LESS, at selectquote.com/golfsmarter.This episode is also brought to you by Waitlist from Wine Access. Visit wineaccess.com/waitlist and use promo code "golfsmarter" for $25 off your first shipment!

GSfMO #370 February 8, 2013. Ken Doherty returns to discuss specific shots that regularly come up during a round, yet we never take time to practice. Let's play golf together next Spring! Our next Golf Smarter Adventure will be on the Robert Trent Jones Trail in Birmingham, AL on March 26-30, 2025.  Space is limited. Learn more and reserve your spot now at tmigolf.com/golfsmarter    Follow @golfsmarter on Instagram, X, Facebook, TikTok, YouTube for daily highlights and helpful insights from our interviews on the podcast. We also post articles and video shorts on LinkedIn @FredGreene (from Novato, CA).    This episode is sponsored by Indeed. Please visit indeed.com/GOLFSMARTER and get a $75 SPONSORED JOB CREDIT. Terms and conditions apply. This episode is brought to you by the all new T-Rex3 created by Amazfit.  The Amazfit T-Rex3 is available at us.amazfit.com/golfsmarter as well as major retailers. When you purchase at us.amazfit.com/golfsmarter, you’ll get 15% off with the promo code GolfSmarter.This episode is sponsored by SelectQuote. Make sure you get the right life insurance for YOU, for LESS, at selectquote.com/golfsmarter.