

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

Feb 20, 2025 • 47min
374: Gary Christian - Playing With Tiger, Mental Game Mastery & Recap
>>Use WHYGOLF Training aids to improve fast (use code "WICKEDSMART" to save 15% on the best training aids in golf. Today's guest is Gary Christian, a former PGA Tour player, broadcaster, and one of the most insightful minds in golf. Gary’s journey is anything but traditional—born in England, he played college golf at Auburn before grinding his way through the mini-tours and finally earning his PGA Tour card at the age of 40. We dive into his late-blooming career, the mindset needed to chase a dream for decades, and what it was like competing against the best players in the world. He shares stories from his time on Tour, insights into course management, and lessons that every golfer—whether you’re a weekend warrior or aspiring pro—can apply to your game. In this episode, you will learn: Life on the PGA Tour. Getting his PGA Tour card at 40 years old. What it was like playing with Tiger Woods at Bethpage Black. And a lot more. Read Gary's book, Beat The Course Not Yourself on Amazon now. 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 10%) Wicked Smart Golf Academy - The FASTEST way to play consistent golf. Mental Golf Type: The Best Mental Game Training (use code WICKEDSMART to save 25%). 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).

Feb 18, 2025 • 51min
373: Gary Christian - Overcoming the Odds as the Oldest PGA Tour Rookie
>>Use WHYGOLF Training aids to improve fast (use code "WICKEDSMART" to save 15% on the best training aids in golf. Today's guest is Gary Christian, a former PGA Tour player, broadcaster, and one of the most insightful minds in golf. Gary’s journey is anything but traditional—born in England, he played college golf at Auburn before grinding his way through the mini-tours and finally earning his PGA Tour card at the age of 40. We dive into his late-blooming career, the mindset needed to chase a dream for decades, and what it was like competing against the best players in the world. He shares stories from his time on Tour, insights into course management, and lessons that every golfer—whether you’re a weekend warrior or aspiring pro—can apply to your game. In this episode you will learn: How he got started in the game. Mindset tricks that helped him breakthrough. Proven ways to play better golf without swing changes. The importance of perseverance in pursuing your goals. 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 10%) Wicked Smart Golf Academy - The FASTEST way to play consistent golf. Mental Golf Type: The Best Mental Game Training (use code WICKEDSMART to save 25%). 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).

Feb 13, 2025 • 45min
372: Justin Klemballa - Why Visualizing Good Shots Improves Your Golf Game
Thanks for everyone who submitted the Wicked Smart Golf II promotion winners... if you didn't win, grab these training aids/speed trainers to improve your game wicked fast. WHYGOLF Training Aids: The best training aids to help your practice sessions (use code WICKEDSMART to save 15%). Rypstick: The #1 speed trainer to add 10+ yards in 40 days or less (use code WICKEDSMART to save 10%) Justin Klemballa is the director of instruction at Paradise Valley Golf Club in Arizona and top ranked golf coach by Golf Digest. When you listen to this episode, you will learn: Easy mental game tips for lower scores. How Justin became a top-ranked golf coach in the country. Why you need to spend more time thinking about your good shots. Common mistakes that are holding your golf swing back from better shots. What it takes to think your way to lower scores with smart course management. A crazy story about how I get hit by a car (yes, this is a real story). WICKED SMART GOLF Recommended Products DECADE Golf: The #1 course management system to think like a pro (use code WICKEDSMART to save 20%). Wicked Smart Golf Academy - The FASTEST way to play consistent golf. Mental Golf Type: The Best Mental Game Training (use code WICKEDSMART to save 25%). 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).

Feb 11, 2025 • 1h 8min
371: How Your Self-Image Shapes Your Game + Pebble Beach Caddy Interview
Get started with WHYGOLF Training Aids - the best training aids to help your practice sessions (use code WICKEDSMART to save 15%). Your self-image is the hidden force behind every round you play. Whether you realize it or not, the way you see yourself as a golfer directly impacts your confidence, decision-making, and ability to perform under pressure. If you’ve ever felt stuck at a certain handicap or struggled with consistency, it’s not just about mechanics—it’s about who you believe you are on the course. In this solo episode, I break down why self-image is the missing link for so many golfers and how you can start thinking, acting, and training like your future self—starting today. When you listen to this episode, you will learn: Why your identity as a golfer dictates your results. A journaling exercise that will help you embody your future self. Practical strategies to reprogram your mindset for lower scores. Why taking consistent action builds confidence faster than motivation. How to shift your internal self-talk to match the golfer you want to become. The difference between playing to your handicap vs. playing to your potential. If you want to break 80, win tournaments, or just feel more confident on the course, it starts with seeing yourself as that golfer before you get there. This episode will help you bridge the gap between where you are now and where you want to be. Plus, I'll share how I began to upgrade my self-image in 2016 leading up to Pebble Beach. And interview Nicholas Tucker, a 10-year PGA Tour caddy. 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 10%) Wicked Smart Golf Academy - The FASTEST way to play consistent golf. Mental Golf Type: The Best Mental Game Training (use code WICKEDSMART to save 25%). 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).

Feb 7, 2025 • 6min
370: Distance Unlocked - I Hit 122 MPH Clubhead Speed!
Get Rypstick - The #1 Speed Trainer to Hit Bombs (use code WICKEDSMART to save 10%) Learn how I got to 122 MPH clubhead speed and broke through a plateau so you can start hitting bombs and making golf easier! 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. 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%). 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).

Feb 6, 2025 • 1h 1min
369: Michael Leonard - Developing The Mental Edge for Scratch Golf
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 I'm sharing an episode where I was a guest on Paul Salter's Scratch Golfer Mindset podcast. Paul asked some amazing questions to help you rethink the mental game and learn how to get the most out of every round. In this episode, you will learn: The "motto" of Wicked Smart Golf II. What the actual goal of a "good" mental game is. How tracking stats can help your practice routines. The importance of a growth mindset can transform your life. Why you need a mental routine each morning to prime your mind. And a lot more. Make sure to download the Mental Golf Playbook. 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).

Feb 4, 2025 • 37min
368: 11 Wicked Smart Tips from A Crazy January
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). Get my FREE pre-shot routine checklist. In this episode you will learn: The importance of tracking your practice. 3 easy course management tips to help your scores. If you should get a mini driver to improve your tee box game. Why you need to master your routines from tee to green to play more consistent golf. And a bunch of guest recaps from a massive January. Thanks for all the support! 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 31, 2025 • 7min
367: Use this PGA Tour Hack + Promotion Winners for WSG II
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). Use this tip in our five-minute Friday from Kevin Dougherty to play better under pressure!

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).