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
5 snips
Jun 24, 2025 • 1h 25min
REPLAY: Mark Immelman - 7 Lessons from Legends + Recap
Joining the discussion is Mark Immelman, a three-time All-American and veteran in the golf world. He shares insights from his book "Lessons From The Best," including the importance of dreams and preparation. Mark recounts a memorable experience with Tiger Woods and emphasizes the significance of mindset when things go awry on the course. He advocates for simple yet effective practice techniques and highlights the value of resilience in pursuing your golfing passion. Expect anecdotes from Augusta and tips to elevate your game!
51 snips
Jun 19, 2025 • 1h 5min
405: Dr. Izzy Justice - How to Easily Train Your Brain for Better Golf
Dr. Izzy Justice, a sports neuroscientist and seasoned athlete, shares groundbreaking insights to elevate your golf game. He explains why heads-up putting is counterproductive and emphasizes early target selection for a relaxed mind. Justice advocates for digital detoxing and highlights how bedtime highlight videos can enhance your swing. He also delves into the importance of mental clarity and sensory input, providing practical strategies to combat negative thoughts and improve focus under pressure. Get ready to transform your mental approach to golf!
Jun 17, 2025 • 22min
404: 7 US Open Lessons to Lower Your Handicap
Discover valuable lessons from the recent U.S. Open, highlighting resilience and the importance of mindset. The discussion reveals how a positive attitude can transform your game, even if you're not a pro. Learn why taking your time with putts is essential and how to maintain composure in tough conditions. You'll also gain insights on avoiding high scores by adopting a 'bogey or better' mentality. This podcast offers practical mental strategies that'll help you play your best golf, no matter the challenges on the course.
Jun 12, 2025 • 58min
403: Dr. Troy Van Biezen - Golf Fitness Secrets From Scottie Scheffler's Trainer
Register for the FREE Training: Score Like a Scratch Golfer on 6/18 at 430pm PST. 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 big). Dr. Troy Van Biezen is a world-renowned sports chiropractor who has spent over 21 years on the PGA Tour, working with legends like Tiger Woods, Jordan Spieth, Zach Johnson, Justin Thomas, and most recently, 2025 PGA Champion Scottie Scheffler. He’s a Titleist Performance Institute Medical Level 2 professional, a trusted advisor for elite-level athletes, and the co-founder of LivPur, a hydration brand helping players stay sharp and recover faster. When you listen to this episode, you will learn: What he learned working with Tiger Woods Why cardio is the missing ingredient for most golfers The biggest misconceptions around recovery, mobility, and performance The importance of sleep, nutrition, and energy management How GolfForever can help amateur golfers avoid injury and build a better swing How he helped Scottie Scheffler during his PGA Championship victory >>Fill out this short survey to enter into the episode 400 giveaway (must submit by June 13th at 11:59pm PST to be eligible). >>Read the Fathers Day Gift Guide! 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%) 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. WHYGOLF Training Aids: The best training aids to help your practice sessions. Mental Golf Type: The Best Mental Game Training (use code WICKEDSMART to save 25%). 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 Read or listen to Wicked Smart Golf II on Amazon or Audible
Jun 10, 2025 • 24min
402: Las Vegas City Am Recap - The Good, Bad, and Ugly
>>Fill out this short survey to enter into the episode 400 giveaway (must submit by June 13th at 11:59pm PST to be eligible). >>Get started with GolfForever (20% off through 6/17/25) - use code "WICKEDSMART"). Wicked Smart Golf Practice Formula: 75+ Practice plans and a 90-minute masterclass to practice like a pro. Learn about my experience at Las Vegas City Am so you can play better this summer. Whether you're a tournament golfer or not, this episode will help your game. In this episode you will learn: How to reset after poor rounds Why you need to eat/drink every three holes The importance of never labeling yourself and skills Why you need to get back to home base practice sessions And a lot more strategies to play better without swing changes. 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. WHYGOLF Training Aids: The best training aids to help your practice sessions. Mental Golf Type: The Best Mental Game Training (use code WICKEDSMART to save 25%). 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 Read or listen to Wicked Smart Golf II on Amazon or Audible
6 snips
Jun 5, 2025 • 1h 4min
401: Jason Baile - Learn From The #1 PGA Coach of 2025
Join Jason Baile, the 2025 PGA National Teacher of the Year and Director of Instruction at Jupiter Hills Club, as he shares his expert insights. He discusses the importance of finding your 'golf superpower' and establishing a reliable 'home base' for practice. Listeners will learn about shifting from random drills to intentional practice, leveraging technology like launch monitors, and the crucial role of mobility in performance. Perfect for golfers at any level, Baile's tips aim to sharpen skills and enhance overall game strategy.
16 snips
Jun 3, 2025 • 39min
400: May Recap - 10 Lessons for Lower Scores + Epic Giveaway
Discover how to enhance your golf game with routines focusing on your short game and mental coaching techniques. Learn why locking in holes 16-18 can make a difference, and how practicing 'anyway' shots can shave strokes off your score. Delve into the critical role of fitness in performance and prepare for tournament challenges with effective strategies. Embrace the mindset for growth by setting audacious goals and tracking your progress. Plus, don’t miss out on an exciting giveaway celebrating listener support!
42 snips
May 28, 2025 • 1h 6min
399: Scott Fawcett - Short Game Secrets + The Mindset of Scoring (Pt. 2) & Recap
Scott Fawcett, the genius behind the DECADE Golf system, shares insights that can reshape your golf game. He emphasizes the power of short game routines and meditation for improved focus. Fawcett unveils a proven putting strategy that can help you sink more putts. He explains how to foster a consistent chipping system while reflecting on PGA Tour dynamics. With ambitions to chase the Champions Tour, he also dives into a wild analysis of the Masters, revealing how Rory could’ve clinched a major win.
15 snips
May 27, 2025 • 60min
398: Scott Fawcett - Short Game Secrets + The Mindset of Scoring (Pt. 1)
Scott Fawcett, the mastermind behind the DECADE Golf system, shares game-changing insights on course management and mindset. He discusses the vital role of short game routines and meditation for peak performance. Fawcett breaks down strategies from the Masters, analyzing how Rory could have excelled with a smarter approach. He also emphasizes mental resilience, chipping techniques, and the importance of simplifying golf strategies. With anecdotes from mentorship experiences, Fawcett offers a roadmap for golfers to play smarter and more confidently.
May 22, 2025 • 52min
397: Travis Zappia - Recapping US Open Pre-Qualifying Rounds
>>Get DECADE Golf: The #1 course management system to think like a pro (use code WICKEDSMART to save 20%). Today's guest is Travis Zappia a good friend and plus handicap. We each caddied for each other in the US Open Qualifying (he played Phoenix CC, I played The Estancia Club). This was my best qualifier and learned a ton that I know will help your mental game. Whether you play tournaments or not, this episode will help you master your game! In this episode you will learn: Why you must fight until the finish. The power of expectation management. Why you should enter into a big "scary" event. The importance of pre and post round routines to learn from everything. How to reset when you have negative visualization over a shot (and pre/post shot routines). And a lot more. WICKED SMART GOLF Recommended Products Mental Golf Type: The Best Mental Game Training (use code WICKEDSMART to save 25%). WHYGOLF Training Aids: The best training aids to help your practice sessions. Rypstick: The #1 speed trainer to add 10+ yards in 40 days or less (use code WICKEDSMART to save 20%) Wicked Smart Golf Academy: The FASTEST way to play consistent golf. Wicked Smart Golf Practice Formula: 65+ 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 Buy Wicked Smart Golf on Amazon or Audible Buy Wicked Smart Golf II on Amazon or Audible
