Wicked Smart Golf

Michael Leonard

Welcome to Wicked Smart Golf, the go-to podcast for golfers who want to shoot lower scores and play their best without changing their swing. Hosted by Michael Leonard, a +2 handicap golfer, best-selling author, and founder of Wicked Smart Golf, this show has helped golfers around the world play smarter, more consistent golf with over 1 million downloads and counting. Michael has written over 4 million words on golf, authored four books, and built one of the fastest-growing platforms in the game, all focused on one mission: help you lower your scores without obsessing over your swing. Because the truth is, your swing will never be perfect. But you don't need a perfect swing to break 80, shoot in the 70s, or play the best golf of your life. In this podcast, you'll learn how to master the mental game, play smarter on the course, practice with purpose, and simplify your short game and putting for lower scores. Each episode is designed to give you practical strategies you can actually use, whether you're a beginner or an experienced player trying to reach the next level. You'll also hear from some of the best minds in golf, including top coaches, elite players, sports psychologists, and best-selling authors, sharing insights to help you improve faster and perform under pressure. If you're serious about playing more consistent golf and finally reaching your potential, this podcast is for you. For even more, check out the Wicked Smart Golf book series on Amazon and Audible, where you'll find step-by-step systems to improve every part of your game.

  1. 11 HR AGO

    496: Brandy Vega - A Mother's Fight for Mental Health Awareness

    >>Learn more about Promise2Live >>Join Wicked Smart Golf Academy to shoot lower scores without swing changes!  Brandy Vega is an army veteran, a former TV news reporter, and a passionate mental health advocate. Following her daughter's suicide attempts, she founded the non-profit organization Promise to Live to provide community support and resources before a crisis occurs. Her mission is centered on saving lives by encouraging individuals to make a proactive promise to reach out for help when they are in a dark place. We'll cover a variety of topics, including: Her family's experience with teen suicide and her subsequent promise to advocate for others. The power of a promise and how studies show people are 60% more likely to keep a promise they make ahead of time. The ASK Framework: Utilize the acronym Acknowledge, Support, and Keep in touch to help navigate difficult conversations. Advice for Parents: Overcome the stigma by asking children directly, "Are you suicidal?" to get honest answers. The "Pocket Hug" Campaign: The organization aims to distribute one million coins as tangible reminders of value and love. 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Access 24/7 call and text support across the country for mental health assistance. And a lot more mental health strategies.  WICKED SMART GOLF  Apply for 1:1 performance coaching with Michael (limited spots available) Wicked Smart Golf Academy To Lower Your HDCP Fast: The FASTEST way to play consistent golf.  Join the Wicked Smart Golf Newsletter and get 5 FREE practice plans. Recommended Products Speed Train With Rypstick: The #1 speed trainer to add 10+ yards in 40 days or less (use code WICKEDSMART to save 20%)  Shot Pattern: The best golf GPS + stat tracking to help you manage your round and make better decisions (20% off w/my link). Think Like a Pro with DECADE Golf: The #1 course management system to think like a pro (use code WICKEDSMART to save 20%). Master Mobility & Flexibility with 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%).  Use HackMotion for Better Ballstriking: The best wrist trainer in golf and become your swing coach (use code WICKEDSMART to save 5% on your investment).  Speed Train with HiiTs Driver: Developed by 3X WLD Champion, Fast Eddie, this hittable driver will help you add distance while hitting balls (use code "WICKEDSMART" to save 10%). Wicked Smart Golf Books Play better FAST with the Wicked Smart Golf Trilogy on Amazon or Audible.  Simplify "golf fitness" with my book, The Wicked Smart Golf Fitness Formula on Amazon. Or, listen to it on Audible.  Follow Wicked Smart Golf   Follow on TikTok Follow on Instagram   Subscribe on YouTube

    53 min
  2. 2 DAYS AGO

    495: 7 Pieces of "Low Hanging Fruit" That Leads to Lower Scores

    >>Get Voice Caddie Launch Monitors 15% off w/code WICKEDSMART.  SC200 Plus: The easiest to use launch monitor, no app needed. SC300i: An upgrade with access to more data using the Voice Caddie app. SC4 Pro: Even more data and simulation to help you practice like a pro. >>Download my FREE guide to add 10+ yards in 60 days In today's episode I'll share 7 pieces of "low hanging fruit" that can help you shoot lower scores fast. You will learn: Why you don't need to flag hunt to make birdies How a routine can help you play your most consistent golf ever  Why you should record your putting stroke to self-assess and drain more short putts  How a few dedicated practice sessions mapping out your distances can help you hit more greens  And more tips to help you play better without swing changes.  WICKED SMART GOLF  Apply for 1:1 performance coaching with Michael (limited spots available) Wicked Smart Golf Academy To Lower Your HDCP Fast: The FASTEST way to play consistent golf.  Join the Wicked Smart Golf Newsletter and get 5 FREE practice plans. Recommended Products Speed Train With Rypstick: The #1 speed trainer to add 10+ yards in 40 days or less (use code WICKEDSMART to save 20%)  Shot Pattern: The best golf GPS + stat tracking to help you manage your round and make better decisions (20% off w/my link). Think Like a Pro with DECADE Golf: The #1 course management system to think like a pro (use code WICKEDSMART to save 20%). Master Mobility & Flexibility with 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%).  Use HackMotion for Better Ballstriking: The best wrist trainer in golf and become your swing coach (use code WICKEDSMART to save 5% on your investment).  Speed Train with HiiTs Driver: Developed by 3X WLD Champion, Fast Eddie, this hittable driver will help you add distance while hitting balls (use code "WICKEDSMART" to save 10%). Wicked Smart Golf Books Play better FAST with the Wicked Smart Golf Trilogy on Amazon or Audible.  Simplify "golf fitness" with my book, The Wicked Smart Golf Fitness Formula on Amazon. Or, listen to it on Audible.  Follow Wicked Smart Golf   Follow on TikTok Follow on Instagram   Subscribe on YouTube

    22 min
  3. 14 MAY

    494: Scott Fawcett - Avoid the "Tiger 5" Mistakes for Lower Scores

    >>Think Like a Pro with DECADE Golf: The #1 course management system to think like a pro (use code WICKEDSMART to save 20%). >>Get my FREE guide, 10 Course Management Secrets This episode of Wicked Smart Golf features Scott Fawcett, the creator of DECADE Golf and the man who revolutionized golf strategy through data-driven performance analytics. As a consultant for PGA Tour stars and elite amateurs, Fawcett shares how his DECADE system removes the guesswork from every shot. What's inside the episode: The "Double Cross" Trap: Why chasing two shot shapes with your driver is statistically the fastest way to blow up your scorecard.  Tiger's Secret 5: The specific scoring mistakes Tiger Woods tracked to lower his average by nearly a full shot overnight.  The 150-Yard Myth: Why aiming at the flag with a wedge in your hand is actually a "distraction" that leads to bogeys. Putting Math vs. Traditional Advice: Why you should stop trying to hit lag putts 17 inches past the hole. The "Mini Clock" Chipping Routine: A transformative practice drill to master proximity and stop "blowing" easy saves around the green. The Decision Fatigue Cure: How elite players like Stewart Cink used DECADE to stay fresh during tournaments by letting math make their decisions. And a lot more strategy tips.  And a lot more golf strategy tips. WICKED SMART GOLF  Apply for 1:1 performance coaching with Michael (limited spots available) Wicked Smart Golf Academy To Lower Your HDCP Fast: The FASTEST way to play  consistent golf.  Join the Wicked Smart Golf Newsletter and get 5 FREE practice plans. Recommended Products Speed Train With Rypstick: The #1 speed trainer to add 10+ yards in 40 days or less (use code WICKEDSMART to save 20%)  Shot Pattern: The best golf GPS + stat tracking to help you manage your round and make better decisions (20% off w/my link). Think Like a Pro with DECADE Golf: The #1 course management system to think like a pro (use code WICKEDSMART to save 20%). Master Mobility & Flexibility with 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%).  Use HackMotion for Better Ballstriking: The best wrist trainer in golf and become your swing coach (use code WICKEDSMART to save 5% on your investment).  Speed Train with HiiTs Driver: Developed by 3X WLD Champion, Fast Eddie, this hittable driver will help you add distance while hitting balls (use code "WICKEDSMART" to save 10%). Wicked Smart Golf Books Play better FAST with the Wicked Smart Golf Trilogy on Amazon or Audible.  Simplify "golf fitness" with my book, The Wicked Smart Golf Fitness Formula on Amazon. Or, listen to it on Audible.  Follow Wicked Smart Golf   Follow on TikTok Follow on Instagram   Subscribe on YouTube

    1hr 42min
  4. 12 MAY

    493: What I Learned From a T5th Finish in the Phoenix City Championship

    >>Get Shot Pattern: The best golf GPS + stat tracking to help you manage your round and make better decisions (20% off w/my link). In today's solo episode I share more about finishing 5th in the 2026 Phoenix City Championship. From how I practiced in April, preparation, mental game lessons, and more.  If you're ready to conquer competition make sure to read or listen to Wicked Smart Golf III - designed for tournament golfers.  WICKED SMART GOLF  Apply for 1:1 performance coaching with Michael (limited spots available) Wicked Smart Golf Academy To Lower Your HDCP Fast: The FASTEST way to play  consistent golf.  Join the Wicked Smart Golf Newsletter and get 5 FREE practice plans. Recommended Products Speed Train With Rypstick: The #1 speed trainer to add 10+ yards in 40 days or less (use code WICKEDSMART to save 20%)  Think Like a Pro with DECADE Golf: The #1 course management system to think like a pro (use code WICKEDSMART to save 20%). Master Mobility & Flexibility with 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%).  Use HackMotion for Better Ballstriking: The best wrist trainer in golf and become your swing coach (use code WICKEDSMART to save 5% on your investment).  Speed Train with HiiTs Driver: Developed by 3X WLD Champion, Fast Eddie, this hittable driver will help you add distance while hitting balls (use code "WICKEDSMART" to save 10%). Wicked Smart Golf Books Play better FAST with the Wicked Smart Golf Trilogy on Amazon or Audible.  Simplify "golf fitness" with my book, The Wicked Smart Golf Fitness Formula on Amazon. Or, listen to it on Audible.  Follow Wicked Smart Golf   Follow on TikTok Follow on Instagram   Subscribe on YouTube

    25 min
  5. 7 MAY

    492: Debbie O'Connell - Stop Sabotaging Your Scores (Mental Secrets)

    >>Get my FREE mental golf playbook (22 page guide) >>Speed Train with HiiTs Driver: Developed by 3X WLD Champion, Fast Eddie, this hittable driver will help you add distance while hitting balls (use code "WICKEDSMART" to save 10%). Debbie O'Connell is a PGA professional, speaker, author, and one of the most inspiring voices in golf. She's dedicated her career to helping players build confidence, develop a winning mindset, and actually enjoy the game more. Her philosophy is simple but powerful—your attitude can be your greatest asset, both in golf and in life. She's been named LPGA National Professional of the Year, featured in Golf Digest's Top 50 Women Teachers, and continues to impact golfers through her coaching, retreats, and training programs. If you enjoyed Part 1, you're going to love this one. When you listen to this new interview, you will learn: Why you need to own good rounds The POW strategy to recap your rounds The importance of listening to your intuition How to stop sabotaging yourself on the back 9 Why your belief systems are a thermostat for your scoring potential Why you need to put a stop sign on your brain during intense moments Learn more about Debbie's programs, trips, and working together on her website.  WICKED SMART GOLF  Apply for 1:1 performance coaching with Michael (limited spots available) Wicked Smart Golf Academy To Lower Your HDCP Fast: The FASTEST way to play consistent golf.  Recommended Products Speed Train With Rypstick: The #1 speed trainer to add 10+ yards in 40 days or less (use code WICKEDSMART to save 20%)  Shot Pattern: The best golf GPS + stat tracking to help you manage your round and make better decisions (20% off w/my link). Think Like a Pro with DECADE Golf: The #1 course management system to think like a pro (use code WICKEDSMART to save 20%). Master Mobility & Flexibility with 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%).  Use HackMotion for Better Ballstriking: The best wrist trainer in golf and become your swing coach (use code WICKEDSMART to save 5% on your investment).  Speed Train with HiiTs Driver: Developed by 3X WLD Champion, Fast Eddie, this hittable driver will help you add distance while hitting balls (use code "WICKEDSMART" to save 10%). Wicked Smart Golf Books Play better FAST with the Wicked Smart Golf Trilogy on Amazon or Audible.  Simplify "golf fitness" with my book, The Wicked Smart Golf Fitness Formula on Amazon. Or, listen to it on Audible.  Follow Wicked Smart Golf   Follow on TikTok Follow on Instagram   Subscribe on YouTube

    1 hr
  6. 5 MAY

    491: 10 Short Game Mistakes You Must Avoid (& Save 3-5 Shots)

    >>Get my FREE short game routine checklist >>Wicked Smart Golf Academy To Lower Your HDCP Fast: The FASTEST way to play consistent golf.  Ready to play better fast? Start with your short game. Today, we'll recap 10 common short game mistakes that most golfers make. You will learn: The power of a short game routine. Why you need a landing zone to save shots.  How to make better contact with the right tempo. The importance of a proper setup to make clean strikes.  Why your wedges are so necessary to saving strokes when you miss the green. And a lot more easy tips to help your short game.  WICKED SMART GOLF  Apply for 1:1 performance coaching with Michael (limited spots available) Wicked Smart Golf Academy To Lower Your HDCP Fast: The FASTEST way to play consistent golf.  Recommended Products Speed Train With Rypstick: The #1 speed trainer to add 10+ yards in 40 days or less (use code WICKEDSMART to save 20%)  Shot Pattern: The best golf GPS + stat tracking to help you manage your round and make better decisions (20% off w/my link). Think Like a Pro with DECADE Golf: The #1 course management system to think like a pro (use code WICKEDSMART to save 20%). Master Mobility & Flexibility with 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%).  Use HackMotion for Better Ballstriking: The best wrist trainer in golf and become your swing coach (use code WICKEDSMART to save 5% on your investment).  Speed Train with HiiTs Driver: Developed by 3X WLD Champion, Fast Eddie, this hittable driver will help you add distance while hitting balls (use code "WICKEDSMART" to save 10%). Wicked Smart Golf Books Play better FAST with the Wicked Smart Golf Trilogy on Amazon or Audible.  Simplify "golf fitness" with my book, The Wicked Smart Golf Fitness Formula on Amazon. Or, listen to it on Audible.  Follow Wicked Smart Golf   Follow on TikTok Follow on Instagram   Subscribe on YouTube

    23 min
  7. 1 MAY

    Dr. Luke Benoit - The Science of Swing Changes & Gaining Speed (Flashback Friday)

    >>Start speed training with Rypstick now. Use code "WICKEDSMART" to save 20% on all RYP Golf products. Dr. Luke Benoit back for his second interview to help you dominate the offseason. He has a Ph.D. in motor learning and control, a 12X best young teacher, the #1 ranked instruction in MN by Golf Digest, and the creator of Rypstick Golf. Before his impressive teaching career, he was also a professional golfer with 18 wins! We had a great chat and think you'll gain a ton of valuable strategies when you listen to the full interview.  When you listen, you will learn: Why early extension happens. How to change your grip to fix your ball flight. How to schedule practice based on your goals. The importance of grip & a common myth debunked. The mistake most people are making with lag putting practice. The Rypstick guarantee that will make adding speed inevitable. How ButterBlade and foam balls can change your practice routine. And more! WICKED SMART GOLF  Apply for 1:1 performance coaching with Michael (limited spots available) Wicked Smart Golf Academy To Lower Your HDCP Fast: The FASTEST way to play consistent golf.  Recommended Products Speed Train With Rypstick: The #1 speed trainer to add 10+ yards in 40 days or less (use code WICKEDSMART to save 20%)  Shot Pattern: The best golf GPS + stat tracking to help you manage your round and make better decisions (20% off w/my link). Think Like a Pro with DECADE Golf: The #1 course management system to think like a pro (use code WICKEDSMART to save 20%). Master Mobility & Flexibility with 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%).  Use HackMotion for Better Ballstriking: The best wrist trainer in golf and become your swing coach (use code WICKEDSMART to save 5% on your investment).  Speed Train with HiiTs Driver: Developed by 3X WLD Champion, Fast Eddie, this hittable driver will help you add distance while hitting balls (use code "WICKEDSMART" to save 10%). Wicked Smart Golf Books Play better FAST with the Wicked Smart Golf Trilogy on Amazon or Audible.  Simplify "golf fitness" with my book, The Wicked Smart Golf Fitness Formula on Amazon. Or, listen to it on Audible.  Follow Wicked Smart Golf   Follow on TikTok Follow on Instagram   Subscribe on YouTube

    55 min

About

Welcome to Wicked Smart Golf, the go-to podcast for golfers who want to shoot lower scores and play their best without changing their swing. Hosted by Michael Leonard, a +2 handicap golfer, best-selling author, and founder of Wicked Smart Golf, this show has helped golfers around the world play smarter, more consistent golf with over 1 million downloads and counting. Michael has written over 4 million words on golf, authored four books, and built one of the fastest-growing platforms in the game, all focused on one mission: help you lower your scores without obsessing over your swing. Because the truth is, your swing will never be perfect. But you don't need a perfect swing to break 80, shoot in the 70s, or play the best golf of your life. In this podcast, you'll learn how to master the mental game, play smarter on the course, practice with purpose, and simplify your short game and putting for lower scores. Each episode is designed to give you practical strategies you can actually use, whether you're a beginner or an experienced player trying to reach the next level. You'll also hear from some of the best minds in golf, including top coaches, elite players, sports psychologists, and best-selling authors, sharing insights to help you improve faster and perform under pressure. If you're serious about playing more consistent golf and finally reaching your potential, this podcast is for you. For even more, check out the Wicked Smart Golf book series on Amazon and Audible, where you'll find step-by-step systems to improve every part of your game.

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