

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

8 snips
Jul 15, 2025 • 23min
410: The Mental Hack Elite Putters Use (That You Can Too)
Discover how a consistent putting routine can transform your game. Learn the mental strategies elite putters use to enhance confidence and minimize mistakes. Explore the importance of self-talk and positive affirmations to improve your mindset. Find out why spending less time over the ball can lead to better results. Plus, uncover techniques for resetting after a missed putt to maintain focus throughout your round. Whether you're aiming to break 80 or stop three-putting, this guide will help you sink more putts under pressure.

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).

15 snips
Jul 8, 2025 • 37min
408: The Wicked Smart Mailbag - 15 Questions From You
Listeners dive into the journey of overcoming a driver slump and mastering the short game. Expect mental tips for better performance, the importance of proper equipment, and insights into effective warm-up routines. Discover how to increase club head speed for added distance and learn about a new training aid that can cement swing changes. The hosts share personal anecdotes and emphasize a structured weekly plan to achieve golf goals, making this a treasure trove for both novice and seasoned players.

14 snips
Jul 3, 2025 • 29min
407: Want Lower Scores FAST? These 10 Lessons Will Help
Discover the secrets to playing better golf without changing your swing! Learn essential pre-round warm-up techniques and mental strategies to tackle negative thoughts. Understand the importance of setting realistic expectations and how visualization can enhance your game. Additionally, find out how to establish a solid home practice routine and the benefits of working with a coach tailored to your needs. Plus, explore tips for maintaining wellness while traveling and navigating digital distractions.

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.

6 snips
Jun 26, 2025 • 32min
406: Tournament Golf Mastery To Perform Under Pressure
Dive into the world of tournament golf mastery, where mental toughness takes center stage. Discover effective strategies to enhance performance under pressure, including personal insights on overcoming challenges. Learn about innovative tools like the best putting training aid and speed trainers to elevate your game. From pre-shot routines to effective course management, this discussion offers invaluable tips for aspiring golfers looking to thrive in competitive settings.

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!

53 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.


