

Wicked Smart Golf
Michael Leonard
Welcome to Wicked Smart Golf - hosted by Michael Leonard. This golf podcast will help you shoot lower scores and play your best WITHOUT changing your swing.
Michael is a full-time golf writer who has written over 3,500,000 words about the sport since 2017 and been playing golf for more than 20 years. In high school, he dropped 50 shots in four years (124-74), played college golf in Southern California, and now plays competitively in Arizona through the USGA, Arizona Golf Association, and Outlaw Tour. He even went to Q-school in 2019 as an amateur golfer.
His 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 a work in progress. The good news is that you don't need a "perfect" swing to break 80 or become a scratch golfer.
In this podcast, he will teach you how to play more consistent golf by mastering your mindset, playing wicked smart golf on the course, learn to practice like a pro, and simplify the short game for lower scores. Enjoy weekly solo episodes and plenty of interviews with golf coaches, elite players, best-selling authors, and other inspiring golf stories.
Check out the Wicked Smart Golf Trilogy on Amazon and Audible for even more helpful strategies to play your best golf ever.
Michael is a full-time golf writer who has written over 3,500,000 words about the sport since 2017 and been playing golf for more than 20 years. In high school, he dropped 50 shots in four years (124-74), played college golf in Southern California, and now plays competitively in Arizona through the USGA, Arizona Golf Association, and Outlaw Tour. He even went to Q-school in 2019 as an amateur golfer.
His 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 a work in progress. The good news is that you don't need a "perfect" swing to break 80 or become a scratch golfer.
In this podcast, he will teach you how to play more consistent golf by mastering your mindset, playing wicked smart golf on the course, learn to practice like a pro, and simplify the short game for lower scores. Enjoy weekly solo episodes and plenty of interviews with golf coaches, elite players, best-selling authors, and other inspiring golf stories.
Check out the Wicked Smart Golf Trilogy on Amazon and Audible for even more helpful strategies to play your best golf ever.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Jul 24, 2025 • 42min
413: Grace Charis - From #1 Golf Content Creator to Competitor
Ready to play in tournament? These resources can help: >>Read or listen to Wicked Smart Golf III on Amazon or Audible (best for players wanting to dominate competitive events). >>Get my FREE Tournament Golf Checklist >>JOIN DECADE Golf: The #1 course management system to think like a pro (use code WICKEDSMART to save 20%). Today's guest is Grace Charis... in just a few years, she has built an enormous global audience of more than 6,000,000 followers. Now, she's switched directions from influencer to tournament golfer, even competing in a LET professional event. In this episode, We talk about her journey into golf since 2021. Easy tips to help you play better in tournaments. What it's like to play tournament golf with the pros. How she became a scratch golfer in a few short years. How she handles the pressure and criticism that comes with the spotlight, and her big goals for the future. Make sure to follow Grace on Instagram, TikTok, or YouTube to follow her journey. WICKED SMART GOLF Recommended Products Rypstick: The #1 speed trainer to add 10+ yards in 40 days or less (use code WICKEDSMART to save 20%) Golf Forever: The best way to work on your golf fitness at home or the gym, with easy to follow plans & app (use code “WICKEDSMART” to save 15%). HackMotion: The best wrist trainer in golf and become your swing coach (use code WICKEDSMART to save 5% on your investment). Wicked Smart Golf Academy: The FASTEST way to play consistent golf. Wicked Smart Golf Practice Formula: 75+ Practice plans and a 90-minute masterclass to practice like a pro. Also, don’t forget to connect on social media: Follow on TikTok Follow on Instagram Subscribe on YouTube Read or listen to Wicked Smart Golf on Amazon or Audible (ideal for beginner to intermediate golfers who want 111 ways to play better without swing changes. Read or listen to Wicked Smart Golf II on Amazon or Audible (perfect for golfers looking to break 80 consistently).

Jul 22, 2025 • 34min
412: Three Tournaments - The Good, Bad, and Ugly (Golf is Hard)
Get RYPSTICK: The #1 speed trainer to add 10+ yards in 40 days or less (use code WICKEDSMART to save 20%) Tournament golf is a battle and in today's episode I share the good, bad, and ugly from my three recent events. This includes a one-day pro golf qualifier, a 3-day event at Torrey Pines, and the Stroke Play Championship in Arizona. In this episode, you'll learn: Why it's so important to add distance. The mindset you need for competitive golf. How to use the 3P approach after you hit a bad shot. The importance of targets when hitting putts inside 10 feet. And a lot more. WICKED SMART GOLF Recommended Products DECADE Golf: The #1 course management system to think like a pro (use code WICKEDSMART to save 20%). Golf Forever: The best way to work on your golf fitness at home or the gym, with easy to follow plans & app (use code “WICKEDSMART” to save 15%). HackMotion: The best wrist trainer in golf and become your swing coach (use code WICKEDSMART to save 5% on your investment). Wicked Smart Golf Academy: The FASTEST way to play consistent golf. Wicked Smart Golf Practice Formula: 75+ Practice plans and a 90-minute masterclass to practice like a pro. Also, don’t forget to connect on social media: Follow on TikTok Follow on Instagram Subscribe on YouTube Read or listen to Wicked Smart Golf on Amazon or Audible (ideal for beginner to intermediate golfers who want 111 ways to play better without swing changes. Read or listen to Wicked Smart Golf II on Amazon or Audible (perfect for golfers looking to break 80 consistently). Read or listen to Wicked Smart Golf III on Amazon or Audible (best for players wanting to dominate competitive events).

5 snips
Jul 17, 2025 • 1h 11min
411: Ben Kolde - Journey to Scratch Golf & Confidence in Competition
Ben Kolde, a golf content creator and scratch golfer, shares his journey toward mastering tournament play. He dives into the mental strategies essential for confidence and performance, emphasizing the importance of pre-shot routines and post-round recaps. Kolde discusses how a mini driver can enhance tee box strategies and the power of visualization techniques. He also reflects on breaking the 70 barrier in golf, offering valuable insights on club selection and mental resilience that can turn a good game into a great one.

Jul 15, 2025 • 23min
410: The Mental Hack Elite Putters Use (That You Can Too)
>>Get HackMotion: The best wrist trainer in golf and become your swing coach (use code WICKEDSMART to save 5% on your investment). >>Get the FREE putting routine checklist to dial in your routine. In this episode, I break down the missing mental link that separates elite putters from everyone else: a consistent, confident putting routine. I’ll share my proven 7-step process to create your own routine — one that keeps you calm, focused, and clutch when it counts. From mindset, to setup, to post-putt reset, you’ll learn how to take control of your putting and finally start rolling it like a pro. Whether you’re trying to break 80 or just want to stop three-putting, this episode will help you master the mental side of putting and sink more putts under pressure. Why most putting mistakes come from mental breakdowns, not mechanic The role of confidence and self-talk in becoming a great putter Different rehearsal stroke styles (and which might suit you best) Why spending less time over the ball leads to better results How to reset after a miss and avoid letting one bad putt ruin your round WICKED SMART GOLF Recommended Products DECADE Golf: The #1 course management system to think like a pro (use code WICKEDSMART to save 20%). Rypstick: The #1 speed trainer to add 10+ yards in 40 days or less (use code WICKEDSMART to save 20%) Golf Forever: The best way to work on your golf fitness at home or the gym, with easy to follow plans & app (use code “WICKEDSMART” to save 15%). Wicked Smart Golf Academy: The FASTEST way to play consistent golf. Wicked Smart Golf Practice Formula: 75+ Practice plans and a 90-minute masterclass to practice like a pro. Also, don’t forget to connect on social media: Follow on TikTok Follow on Instagram Subscribe on YouTube Read or listen to Wicked Smart Golf on Amazon or Audible (ideal for beginner to intermediate golfers who want 111 ways to play better without swing changes. Read or listen to Wicked Smart Golf II on Amazon or Audible (perfect for golfers looking to break 80 consistently). Read or listen to Wicked Smart Golf III on Amazon or Audible (best for players wanting to dominate competitive events).

Jul 10, 2025 • 1h 13min
409: Trevor Jones: Exposing and Overcoming the YIPS
>>Master Swing Changes With HackMotion >>Read the HackMotion review >>Get my FREE Putting Routine Checklist Today, I’m excited to welcome Trevor Jones — a golf performance coach and ACT specialist who’s helping players master the mental game. Trevor works with golfers of all levels to help them play with more confidence, stay present, and unlock their potential through Acceptance & Commitment Therapy — a proven psychological approach that teaches athletes how to manage thoughts, emotions, and focus under pressure. In this episode, we dive into The TRUTH about the yips What ACT is and how it applies to golf Why mastering your mental game is just as important as your mechanics. Trevor shares stories from working with competitive players, practical exercises you can use right away, and how to approach the game with more clarity and composure. If you’re serious about playing your best golf — especially when it matters most — you’re going to love this conversation. Check out his website here. WICKED SMART GOLF Recommended Products DECADE Golf: The #1 course management system to think like a pro (use code WICKEDSMART to save 20%). Rypstick: The #1 speed trainer to add 10+ yards in 40 days or less (use code WICKEDSMART to save 20%) Golf Forever: The best way to work on your golf fitness at home or the gym, with easy to follow plans & app (use code “WICKEDSMART” to save 15%). HackMotion: The best wrist trainer in golf and become your swing coach (use code WICKEDSMART to save 5% on your investment). Wicked Smart Golf Academy: The FASTEST way to play consistent golf. Wicked Smart Golf Practice Formula: 75+ Practice plans and a 90-minute masterclass to practice like a pro. Also, don’t forget to connect on social media: Follow on TikTok Follow on Instagram Subscribe on YouTube Read or listen to Wicked Smart Golf on Amazon or Audible (ideal for beginner to intermediate golfers who want 111 ways to play better without swing changes. Read or listen to Wicked Smart Golf II on Amazon or Audible (perfect for golfers looking to break 80 consistently). Read or listen to Wicked Smart Golf III on Amazon or Audible (best for players wanting to dominate competitive events).

Jul 8, 2025 • 37min
408: The Wicked Smart Mailbag - 15 Questions From You
>>Get HackMotion: The best wrist trainer in golf and become your swing coach (use code WICKEDSMART to save 5% on your investment). Today I'm answering podcast listener questions from the 400th episode survey. There were so many great ones and wanted to give you raw and real answers to improve your golf (& mental game). In this episode, you'll learn: How to get out of a driver slump Mental tips for a better short game The easiest way to get dialed on every shot The importance of equipment across all handicaps A new training aid that can help you make swing changes stick And a lot more. WICKED SMART GOLF Recommended Products DECADE Golf: The #1 course management system to think like a pro (use code WICKEDSMART to save 20%). Rypstick: The #1 speed trainer to add 10+ yards in 40 days or less (use code WICKEDSMART to save 20%) Golf Forever: The best way to work on your golf fitness at home or the gym, with easy to follow plans & app (use code “WICKEDSMART” to save 15%). HackMotion: The best wrist trainer in golf and become your swing coach (use code WICKEDSMART to save 5% on your investment). Wicked Smart Golf Academy: The FASTEST way to play consistent golf. Wicked Smart Golf Practice Formula: 75+ Practice plans and a 90-minute masterclass to practice like a pro. Also, don’t forget to connect on social media: Follow on TikTok Follow on Instagram Subscribe on YouTube Read or listen to Wicked Smart Golf on Amazon or Audible (ideal for beginner to intermediate golfers who want 111 ways to play better without swing changes. Read or listen to Wicked Smart Golf II on Amazon or Audible (perfect for golfers looking to break 80 consistently). Read or listen to Wicked Smart Golf III on Amazon or Audible (best for players wanting to dominate competitive events).

Jul 3, 2025 • 29min
407: Want Lower Scores FAST? These 10 Lessons Will Help
Get Golf Forever: The best way to work on your golf fitness at home or the gym, with easy to follow plans & app (use code “WICKEDSMART” to save 15%). In this June recap you'll learn tons of ways to play better golf without swing changes, including: The best way to warm up pre-round How to easily overcome negative thoughts mid-round Why you need to be very careful about labeling yourself How choosing your target early (and reviewing often) can help you make more committed swings. And a lot more. >>Read Your Brain Swings Every Club by Dr. Izzy Justice WICKED SMART GOLF Recommended Products DECADE Golf: The #1 course management system to think like a pro (use code WICKEDSMART to save 20%). Rypstick: The #1 speed trainer to add 10+ yards in 40 days or less (use code WICKEDSMART to save 20%) HackMotion: The best wrist trainer in golf and become your swing coach (use code WICKEDSMART to save 5% on your investment). Wicked Smart Golf Academy: The FASTEST way to play consistent golf. Wicked Smart Golf Practice Formula: 75+ Practice plans and a 90-minute masterclass to practice like a pro. Also, don’t forget to connect on social media: Follow on TikTok Follow on Instagram Subscribe on YouTube Read or listen to Wicked Smart Golf on Amazon or Audible (ideal for beginner to intermediate golfers who want 111 ways to play better without swing changes. Read or listen to Wicked Smart Golf II on Amazon or Audible (perfect for golfers looking to break 80 consistently). Read or listen to Wicked Smart Golf III on Amazon or Audible (best for players wanting to dominate competitive events).

10 snips
Jul 1, 2025 • 1h 4min
REPLAY: Jordan Hagel - The Journey to Scratch Golf
Join Jordan Hagel, co-host of the Member Guest Podcast and mental golf coaching student, as he shares his inspiring journey to becoming a plus handicap golfer. He emphasizes that boring golf is key to breaking 80 and reveals how course management is vital for scoring in the 70s. Discover the impact of DECADE stats on his off-season strategy and learn how to maintain your momentum when going low. Jordan also highlights the importance of developing a strong work ethic to lower your handicap and unlock your full potential.

Jun 27, 2025 • 3min
ANNOUNCEMENT: Wicked Smart Golf III is LIVE!
>>Read or listen to Wicked Smart Golf III on Amazon or Audible. Inside, you’ll discover how to find, prepare, and perform in tournament golf: Section I: Tournament Golf 101 Learn why playing in events is the fastest way to improve—and how to get started (even if you’re a mid-handicapper). Using the Three-Tier Tournament System, you’ll learn how to find the right event and chase your goals with clarity. Section II: Train Like a Tournament Golfer Discover a complete mental and physical blueprint to show up 100% ready. You’ll get detailed practice strategies (with printable plans), practice round strategies, and preparation tools to help you manage nerves and build confidence. Section III: Thriving in Tournament Golf Learn strategies that help you stay focused, bounce back from bad holes, and handle pressure like a tour pro. You’ll also discover proven techniques used on the PGA Tour to manage your energy, deal with playing partners, emotions, and game plan across all 18 holes. Section IV: Play Wicked Smart and Win Every Format Learn how to adjust your strategy for one-day qualifiers, multi-day events, match play, and team competitions. You’ll uncover format-specific tactics, key rules for partner events, and how to manage your energy and strategy to play your best from the first tee to the final putt. Section V: The 19th Hole Champion Mindset Develop a post-round ritual that reinforces confidence and highlights areas to improve. Learn how to reflect with purpose, avoid burnout, and build sustainable tournament success for years to come. This book isn’t about playing perfect golf—it’s about competing with confidence, making smarter decisions, and building a system you can trust under pressure. Whether you want to win your club championship, qualify for elite amateur events, or simply play better under pressure, Wicked Smart Golf III will help you think, prepare, and perform like an elite tournament golfer. Grab your copy today and take your competitive game to the next level.

Jun 26, 2025 • 32min
406: Tournament Golf Mastery To Perform Under Pressure
>>Read or listen to Wicked Smart Golf III on Amazon or Audible. Thanks for all the support and excited to complete the Wicked Smart Golf Trilogy. Congrats to all the winners - check your email for next steps. Mentioned in this episode: Wicked Smart Golf Academy: The FASTEST way to play consistent golf. Pre-Shot Like a Pro: Develop pre-shot routines from tee to green. WhyGolf Putting Thing: The best putting training aid for indoor/outdoor practice. Rypstick: The #1 speed trainer to add 10+ yards in 40 days or less (use code WICKEDSMART to save 20%) WICKED SMART GOLF Recommended Products DECADE Golf: The #1 course management system to think like a pro (use code WICKEDSMART to save 20%). Golf Forever: The best way to work on your golf fitness at home or the gym, with easy to follow plans & app (use code “WICKEDSMART” to save 15%). HackMotion: The best wrist trainer in golf and become your swing coach (use code WICKEDSMART to save 5% on your investment). Wicked Smart Golf Practice Formula: 75+ Practice plans and a 90-minute masterclass to practice like a pro. Also, don’t forget to connect on social media: Follow on TikTok Follow on Instagram Subscribe on YouTube Read or listen to Wicked Smart Golf on Amazon or Audible (ideal for beginner to intermediate golfers who want 111 ways to play better without swing changes. Read or listen to Wicked Smart Golf II on Amazon or Audible (perfect for golfers looking to break 80 consistently).