
Wicked Smart Golf
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 2,000,000 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.
Latest episodes

Jan 30, 2025 • 60min
366: Kevin Dougherty - Think & Hit Drives Like a PGA Tour Player
Join DECADE Golf - The #1 Course Management System (use code WICKEDSMART to save 20%). Also, my new book, Wicked Smart Golf II: The Blueprint to Breaking 80 Consistently is LIVE on Amazon (kindle + paperback + hardcover) and Audible sometime in February. Learn proven strategies to break 80 and play your best golf ever WITHOUT swing changes. Thanks for the support! Enter the WSG2 Launch promotion (must have a Gmail address or send name, email, and proof of purchase to wickedsmartgolf@gmail.com). Kevin Dougherty is a professional golfer from Murrieta, California, who turned pro in 2014 after playing collegiate golf at Oklahoma State University. Some of his teammates at OSU included Wyndham Clark and Taylor Gooch. Kevin achieved a significant milestone by earning his first PGA Tour card, marking a pivotal moment in his career. Known for his perseverance, commitment to fitness and dedication to the sport, Kevin continues to work on his game and will inspire you to think big in 2025. When you listen to this episode, you will learn: How he became a top driver in pro golf. His experience working with a sports psychologist. Why the putting green is so important before the round. How a mini driver can help faster swinging players off the tee. His unique strategy to hit fades and draws with driver off the tee. How a routine helps him stay present and play best in high pressure situations. And a lot more. WICKED SMART GOLF Recommended Products DECADE Golf - The #1 Course Management System (use code WICKEDSMART to save 20%). 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 (use code WICKEDSMART to save 15%). Rypstick - The #1 Speed Trainer to Hit Bombs (use code WICKEDSMART to save 10%) Mental Golf Coaching - Get 1:1 support to lower your handicap, master your mental game, and have more fun. Wicked Smart Golf Academy - The FASTEST way to play consistent golf. PrimePutt: The best putting mats in golf, use code “WICKEDSMART” to save 10% on your investment. Arccos Golf - The easiest way to track and analyze your stats (use code WICKEDSMART to save 10% on sensors or grips). Also, don’t forget to connect on social media: Follow on TikTok Follow on Instagram Subscribe on YouTube Buy Wicked Smart Golf Amazon or Audible Buy Wicked Smart Golf II on Amazon (Audible coming soon).

Jan 28, 2025 • 55min
365: Logan Scott - Manage Stats and Expectations for Lower Scores
Join DECADE Golf - The #1 Course Management System (use code WICKEDSMART to save 20%). Also, my new book, Wicked Smart Golf II: The Blueprint to Breaking 80 Consistently is LIVE on Amazon (kindle + paperback + hardcover) and Audible sometime in February. Learn proven strategies to break 80 and play your best golf ever WITHOUT swing changes. Thanks for the support! Enter the WSG2 Launch promotion (must have a Gmail address or send name, email, and proof of purchase to wickedsmartgolf@gmail.com). Today's guest is Logan Scott - a Class A PGA professional with over a decade of teaching experience, recognized as the 2019 SCPGA Metro Chapter Teacher of the Year. He serves as the Director of Instruction at Oakmont Country Club, working with golfers of all ages and skill levels, including top-level college athletes and amateurs. Logan holds multiple certifications, including TPI Level 1, K-Vest Levels 1 and 2, Boditrak Level 1, and Operation 36, highlighting his commitment to understanding the body-swing connection. His coaching philosophy focuses on continuous learning and applying effective methods to help students achieve their goals. WICKED SMART GOLF Recommended Products DECADE Golf - The #1 Course Management System (use code WICKEDSMART to save 20%). 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 (use code WICKEDSMART to save 15%). Rypstick - The #1 Speed Trainer to Hit Bombs (use code WICKEDSMART to save 10%) Mental Golf Coaching - Get 1:1 support to lower your handicap, master your mental game, and have more fun. Wicked Smart Golf Academy - The FASTEST way to play consistent golf. PrimePutt: The best putting mats in golf, use code “WICKEDSMART” to save 10% on your investment. Arccos Golf - The easiest way to track and analyze your stats (use code WICKEDSMART to save 10% on sensors or grips). Also, don’t forget to connect on social media: Follow on TikTok Follow on Instagram Subscribe on YouTube Buy Wicked Smart Golf Amazon or Audible Buy Wicked Smart Golf II on Amazon (Audible coming soon).

Jan 24, 2025 • 6min
364: Avoid This Mental Mistake That Ruins Rounds
Join DECADE Golf - The #1 Course Management System (use code WICKEDSMART to save 20%). Also, my new book, Wicked Smart Golf II: The Blueprint to Breaking 80 Consistently is LIVE on Amazon (kindle + paperback + hardcover) and Audible sometime in February. Learn proven strategies to break 80 and play your best golf ever WITHOUT swing changes. Thanks for the support! Enter the WSG2 Launch promotion (must have a Gmail address or send name, email, and proof of purchase to wickedsmartgolf@gmail.com). In today's five minute Friday episode you'll learn why one mental mistake ruins rounds and crushes confidence. Even if you're a skilled golfer, you must learn how to manage this part of your game to shoot lower scores. 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 (use code WICKEDSMART to save 15%). Rypstick - The #1 Speed Trainer to Hit Bombs (use code WICKEDSMART to save 10%) Mental Golf Coaching - Get 1:1 support to lower your handicap, master your mental game, and have more fun. Wicked Smart Golf Academy - The FASTEST way to play consistent golf. PrimePutt: The best putting mats in golf, use code “WICKEDSMART” to save 10% on your investment. Arccos Golf - The easiest way to track and analyze your stats (use code WICKEDSMART to save 10% on sensors or grips). Also, don’t forget to connect on social media: Follow on TikTok Follow on Instagram Subscribe on YouTube Buy Wicked Smart Golf Amazon or Audible Buy Wicked Smart Golf II on Amazon (Audible coming soon).

Jan 23, 2025 • 55min
363: Pete Wlodkowski - Amateur Golf Tournaments 101
Join DECADE Golf - The #1 Course Management System (use code WICKEDSMART to save 20%). Also, my new book, Wicked Smart Golf II: The Blueprint to Breaking 80 Consistently is LIVE on Amazon (kindle + paperback + hardcover) and Audible sometime in February. Learn proven strategies to break 80 and play your best golf ever WITHOUT swing changes. Thanks for the support! Enter the WSG2 Launch promotion (must have a Gmail address or send name, email, and proof of purchase to wickedsmartgolf@gmail.com). Today's guest is Pete Wlodkowski, who is the creator of AmateurGolf.com. Not only does he run the biggest website for amateur golfers but also a 3X club champion in three different states. In this episode, you will learn: How to play better in tournaments. The habits of successful tournament golfers. What you can learn from watching pro golf tournaments. How to prepare to play well under pressure (even as a newer competitor). The best place to sign up and find tournaments in all 50 states. And a lot more. Check out amateurgolf.com to find golf tournaments and test your game in 2025! You can also read my articles on Amateur Golf: How to Plan the Ultimate Arizona Golf Trip Why I Quit My $100,000 Career to Chase the Golf Dream WICKED SMART GOLF Recommended Products DECADE Golf - The #1 Course Management System (use code WICKEDSMART to save 20%). 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 (use code WICKEDSMART to save 15%). Rypstick - The #1 Speed Trainer to Hit Bombs (use code WICKEDSMART to save 10%) Mental Golf Coaching - Get 1:1 support to lower your handicap, master your mental game, and have more fun. Wicked Smart Golf Academy - The FASTEST way to play consistent golf. PrimePutt: The best putting mats in golf, use code “WICKEDSMART” to save 10% on your investment. Arccos Golf - The easiest way to track and analyze your stats (use code WICKEDSMART to save 10% on sensors or grips). Also, don’t forget to connect on social media: Follow on TikTok Follow on Instagram Subscribe on YouTube Buy Wicked Smart Golf Amazon or Audible Buy Wicked Smart Golf II on Amazon (Audible coming soon).

Jan 21, 2025 • 1h 4min
362: Michael Leonard - Q-School, Offseason Hacks, and Post Round Rituals
Join DECADE Golf - The #1 Course Management System (use code WICKEDSMART to save 20%). Also, my new book, Wicked Smart Golf II: The Blueprint to Breaking 80 Consistently is LIVE on Amazon (kindle + paperback + hardcover) and Audible sometime in February. Learn proven strategies to break 80 and play your best golf ever WITHOUT swing changes. Thanks for the support! Enter the WSG2 Launch promotion (must have a Gmail address or send name, email, and proof of purchase to wickedsmartgolf@gmail.com). In this episode (which originally aired on Amateur Golf.com podcast) you will learn: Why your subconscious needs repetition. The power of a peak performance checklist. How to learn about your game with post round rituals. The importance of a morning ritual to upgrade your mindset. Why it's crucial to train your mind and swing this offseason to hit your golf goals. Check out amateurgolf.com to find golf tournaments and test your game in 2025! You can also read my articles on Amateur Golf: How to Plan the Ultimate Arizona Golf Trip Why I Quit My $100,000 Career to Chase the Golf Dream WICKED SMART GOLF Recommended Products DECADE Golf - The #1 Course Management System (use code WICKEDSMART to save 20%). 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 (use code WICKEDSMART to save 15%). Rypstick - The #1 Speed Trainer to Hit Bombs (use code WICKEDSMART to save 10%) Mental Golf Coaching - Get 1:1 support to lower your handicap, master your mental game, and have more fun. Wicked Smart Golf Academy - The FASTEST way to play consistent golf. PrimePutt: The best putting mats in golf, use code “WICKEDSMART” to save 10% on your investment. Arccos Golf - The easiest way to track and analyze your stats (use code WICKEDSMART to save 10% on sensors or grips). Also, don’t forget to connect on social media: Follow on TikTok Follow on Instagram Subscribe on YouTube Buy Wicked Smart Golf Amazon or Audible Buy Wicked Smart Golf II on Amazon (Audible coming soon).

Jan 17, 2025 • 5min
361: This Mental Hack Leads to Optimism on Every Shot
Join DECADE Golf - The #1 Course Management System (use code WICKEDSMART to save 20%). Also, my new book, Wicked Smart Golf II: The Blueprint to Breaking 80 Consistently is LIVE on Amazon (kindle + paperback + hardcover) and Audible sometime in February. Learn proven strategies to break 80 and play your best golf ever WITHOUT swing changes. Thanks for the support! Enter the WSG2 Launch promotion (must have a Gmail address or send name, email, and proof of purchase to wickedsmartgolf@gmail.com). In this 5-minute Friday, learn why self-talk fuels optimism so you approach every shot with confidence. 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 (use code WICKEDSMART to save 15%). Rypstick - The #1 Speed Trainer to Hit Bombs (use code WICKEDSMART to save 10%) Mental Golf Coaching - Get 1:1 support to lower your handicap, master your mental game, and have more fun. Wicked Smart Golf Academy - The FASTEST way to play consistent golf. PrimePutt: The best putting mats in golf, use code “WICKEDSMART” to save 10% on your investment. Arccos Golf - The easiest way to track and analyze your stats (use code WICKEDSMART to save 10% on sensors or grips). Also, don’t forget to connect on social media: Follow on TikTok Follow on Instagram Subscribe on YouTube Buy my golf book on Amazon or Audible (“Wicked Smart Golf: How to Play Better Golf and Shoot Lower Scores Without Changing Your Swing”)

Jan 16, 2025 • 1h 17min
360: Michael Nordberg - From 17 to 9 HDCP (No Swing Changes)
>>Join DECADE Golf - 20% off using code "WICKEDSMART" Also, my new book, Wicked Smart Golf II: The Blueprint to Breaking 80 Consistently is LIVE on Amazon (kindle + paperback + hardcover) and Audible sometime in February. Learn proven strategies to break 80 and play your best golf ever WITHOUT swing changes. Thanks for the support! Enter the WSG2 Launch promotion (must have a Gmail address or send name, email, and proof of purchase to wickedsmartgolf@gmail.com). Today's guest is a podcast listener and Wicked Smart fan who got to a single digit WITHOUT swing changes. When you listen to this episode, you will learn: Why DECADE Golf is a gamechanger. The power of self-talk to turn the round around. How he finally broke through his "bogey golf" plateau. Why short game is everything in your quest to lower scores. How Rypstick transformed his driver game from 92 to 111 mph and added 25 yards! Use this episode as inspiration to play your best golf ever in 2025 and beyond! 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 (use code WICKEDSMART to save 15%). Rypstick - The #1 Speed Trainer to Hit Bombs (use code WICKEDSMART to save 10%) Mental Golf Coaching - Get 1:1 support to lower your handicap, master your mental game, and have more fun. Wicked Smart Golf Academy - The FASTEST way to play consistent golf. PrimePutt: The best putting mats in golf, use code “WICKEDSMART” to save 10% on your investment. Arccos Golf - The easiest way to track and analyze your stats (use code WICKEDSMART to save 10% on sensors or grips). Also, don’t forget to connect on social media: Follow on TikTok Follow on Instagram Subscribe on YouTube Buy my golf book on Amazon or Audible (“Wicked Smart Golf: How to Play Better Golf and Shoot Lower Scores Without Changing Your Swing”)

Jan 14, 2025 • 31min
359: How to Develop a Mental Edge + WSG2 Launch Promotion
My new book, Wicked Smart Golf II: The Blueprint to Breaking 80 Consistently is LIVE on Amazon (kindle + paperback + hardcover) and Audible sometime in February. Learn proven strategies to break 80 and play your best golf ever WITHOUT swing changes. Thanks for the support! Enter the WSG2 Launch promotion (must have a Gmail address or send name, email, and proof of purchase to wickedsmartgolf@gmail.com). In this episode, you will learn how to get "mental edge" with a morning routine. You will learn: How to prime your mind for success. Why you need an optimistic attitude to win. The power of breathing properly to get out of stress. Proven habits to start your day right and program new patterns to upgrade your thinking. And a lot more details about the upcoming launch promotion. WICKED SMART GOLF Recommended Products DECADE Golf - The #1 Course Management System (use code WICKEDSMART to save 20%). 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 (use code WICKEDSMART to save 15%). Rypstick - The #1 Speed Trainer to Hit Bombs (use code WICKEDSMART to save 10%) Mental Golf Coaching - Get 1:1 support to lower your handicap, master your mental game, and have more fun. Wicked Smart Golf Academy - The FASTEST way to play consistent golf. PrimePutt: The best putting mats in golf, use code “WICKEDSMART” to save 10% on your investment. Arccos Golf - The easiest way to track and analyze your stats (use code WICKEDSMART to save 10% on sensors or grips). Also, don’t forget to connect on social media: Follow on TikTok Follow on Instagram Subscribe on YouTube Buy my golf book on Amazon or Audible (“Wicked Smart Golf: How to Play Better Golf and Shoot Lower Scores Without Changing Your Swing”)

Jan 12, 2025 • 2min
WICKED SMART GOLF II is LIVE on Amazon
My new book, Wicked Smart Golf II: The Blueprint to Breaking 80 Consistently is LIVE on Amazon (kindle + paperback)... hardcover should release later today or early next week and Audible sometime in February. Learn proven strategies to break 80 and play your best golf ever WITHOUT swing changes. Thanks for the support!

Jan 10, 2025 • 5min
358: Avoid These 3 Wedge Mistakes to Scramble Better
Become a wedge wizard with my FREE 10-page guide! In this quick five minute Friday episode you will learn 3 equipment errors from James Sieckmann that might be holding you back from improving your short game. Make sure to listen to episode 357 with James and check out his books, Your Short Game Solution and Your Putting Solution, which offer step-by-step strategies to help golfers of all skill levels improve their scoring game. Plus, learn more about his online mentorship, Short Game Mastery. WICKED SMART GOLF Recommended Products DECADE Golf - The #1 Course Management System (use code WICKEDSMART to save 20%). 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 (use code WICKEDSMART to save 15%). Rypstick - The #1 Speed Trainer to Hit Bombs (use code WICKEDSMART to save 10%) Mental Golf Coaching - Get 1:1 support to lower your handicap, master your mental game, and have more fun. Wicked Smart Golf Academy - The FASTEST way to play consistent golf. PrimePutt: The best putting mats in golf, use code “WICKEDSMART” to save 10% on your investment. Arccos Golf - The easiest way to track and analyze your stats (use code WICKEDSMART to save 10% on sensors or grips). Also, don’t forget to connect on social media: Follow on TikTok Follow on Instagram Subscribe on YouTube Buy my golf book on Amazon or Audible (“Wicked Smart Golf: How to Play Better Golf and Shoot Lower Scores Without Changing Your Swing”)