Wicked Smart Golf

Michael Leonard
  • 4.9 (144)
  • Golf
  • Updated Weekly

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 2 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. 10h ago

    Will Robins - The "Scoring Method" To Lower Your Handicap Fast (Flashback Friday)

    >>Join the NEW Wicked Smart Golf Speed Challenge  >>Use HackMotion for Better Ballstriking: The best wrist trainer in golf and become your swing coach (use code WICKEDSMART to save on your investment).  Today's guest is Will Robins—one of the most inspiring and practical coaches in golf. Will's story is incredible. After surviving the 2004 tsunami in Thailand, he completely transformed his life and coaching philosophy. That experience reshaped how he approaches the game, and it's why he's now one of the most respected coaches for both amateurs and professionals around the world. In this episode, we dive deep into: Will's life-changing story of surviving a tsunami and how it shaped his purpose Simple mindset shifts that lead to lower scores and more fun on the course Course management strategies every amateur needs to stop wasting strokes Decision-making frameworks used by elite players (that you can apply instantly) Practical routines and mental cues to stay calm, confident, and committed under pressure Will breaks down what really matters when it comes to scoring — and why most golfers focus on the wrong things. If you've ever felt like you're working hard but not getting results, this episode will give you the clarity and tools to finally play to your potential. Learn more about the Scoring Method now.  WORK WITH WICKED SMART GOLF  Apply for 1:1 performance coaching with Michael (limited spots available) Join Wicked Smart Golf Academy To Lower Your HDCP Fast: Proven paths to break 90, break 80, and crush competitive golf (no swing changes required) 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

  2. 1d ago

    537: Fast Eddie Fernandes Shares His Secrets to Insane Driver Speed

    >>Join the NEW Wicked Smart Golf Speed Challenge  >>Download my FREE distance guide to add 10+ yards in 60 days In this episode, we welcome back Eddie "Fast Eddie" Fernandez, a dominant force in the world of golf and speed training. Before making his mark in power hitting, Eddie was a formidable competitor on the mini-tours, accumulating 50 mini-tour wins through his elite ball-striking and fierce competitive grit. Transitioning his golf background into raw power, he became a 3-time World Long Drive Champion and captured 15 World Long Drive titles. Today, Eddie is widely recognized as one of the premier speed coaches to the top golfers on the planet. He is also the creator of the HiITS Driver—a revolutionary training tool designed to help golfers unlock massive distance safely without sacrificing control or swing mechanics. Life Beyond the Grind: How transitioning from 100% commission security sales and bartending built the grit necessary to become a world champion. Setting the Standard: Why total commitment and having a clear vision are essential for breaking through physical and performance plateaus. Working with the Elites: Behind-the-scenes insights into coaching major champions and PGA Tour stars like Hideki Matsuyama, Vijay Singh, and Brandt Snedeker. Why Traditional Speed Training Fails: The common mistakes golfers make when attempting to swing faster and how swinging at air can lead to injuries like tendonitis. Eliminating YouTube Golf Myths: Debunking popular instruction trends, including the truth behind angle of attack with a driver and why you shouldn't try to "jump" at impact. Fountain of Youth Mobility: The role of fascial lines, Type 2B fast-twitch muscle fibers, and rotational mobility in maintaining speed as you age. Executing Effective Speed Sessions: The step-by-step warm-up protocol, target volume, and why maximum effort—not swing perfection—is key on speed days. On-Course Speed Mapping: Realistic expectations for bridging the gap between your maximum simulator speed and your on-course cruising speed. And more speed + scoring tips.  WORK WITH WICKED SMART GOLF  Apply for 1:1 performance coaching with Michael (limited spots available) Join Wicked Smart Golf Academy To Lower Your HDCP Fast: Proven paths to break 90, break 80, and crush competitive golf (no swing changes required) 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

  3. 2d ago

    The NEW Wicked Smart Golf Speed Challenge is OPEN!

    >>Learn more about the Wicked Smart Golf Speed Challenge (enroll by 10/20 at 11:59pm PST).  The NEW 30-Day Speed Challenge is officially here! I've completely revamped the program with updated training methods, new lessons, and a bonus "Ultimate Driver" Masterclass to help you swing faster and hit longer drives. Whether you're new to speed training or looking to break through a plateau, this challenge will help you build a consistent routine and start unlocking more distance.

  4. 3d ago

    536: How I Gained 15 MPH of Clubhead Speed (100 to 115)

    >>Join the NEW Wicked Smart Golf Speed Challenge  >>My favorite speed trainers: Speed Train With Rypstick (code "WICKEDSMART" saves you 20%) Speed Train with HiiTs Driver (code "WICKEDSMART" saves you 10%) In 2017, my clubhead speed was around 105 mph. After years of training, experimenting, and learning from some of the best speed coaches in golf, I'm now cruising around 115–116 mph and have reached personal-best speeds over 120 mph. The best part? I made these gains without completely overhauling my golf swing. In this episode, I'm sharing my entire speed journey, including the four biggest factors that helped me gain distance, the training methods I've tested, and the mistakes that held me back. Whether you're looking to gain your first 3–5 mph or break through a frustrating plateau, these lessons can help you train smarter and unlock more speed. In this episode, you'll learn: The four biggest factors that helped me increase my clubhead speed. How Tour Tempo, equipment, and strength training contributed to my gains. What I've learned from testing SuperSpeed, The Stack, Rypstick, and the HiiTS Driver. Five common speed-training mistakes that can sabotage your progress. Why consistency and recovery matter more than endless training sessions. How to start your own speed journey and build lasting habits. Plus, my newly updated 30-Day Speed Challenge opens October 13–20! Learn how to train smarter, swing faster, and start unlocking more distance without overcomplicating your golf swing. WORK WITH WICKED SMART GOLF  Apply for 1:1 performance coaching with Michael (limited spots available) Join Wicked Smart Golf Academy To Lower Your HDCP Fast: Proven paths to break 90, break 80, and crush competitive golf (no swing changes required) 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

  5. Oct 8

    535: Jared Tendler Gave Me a Mental Game Lesson Pt. 2 (The Zone, Focus, & Scar Tissue)

    >>Read Jared Tendler's book, Everyday Golf Psychology >>Read the 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.  LEARN THE WICKED SMART GOLF SYSTEM Apply for 1:1 performance coaching with Michael (limited spots available) Join Wicked Smart Golf Academy To Lower Your HDCP Fast: Proven paths to break 90, break 80, and crush competitive golf (no swing changes required) 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%). In this episode, mental golf coach Jared Tendler joins host Michael Leonard for a second mental coaching session to discuss Michael's recent tournament progress and map out strategies for elevating his mental game. The session dives deep beneath the surface of performance to discuss accessing "the zone," managing energy, and conquering past mental scars. You will gain valuable insights on how to channel optimal focus, align self-image with performance, and navigate unexpected obstacles with poise. We'll cover: Progress Beyond the Scoreboard: The episode highlights how mental resilience and maintaining composure during chaotic days—such as dealing with flat tires, bad weather, or missing cuts—serve as crucial indicators of growth. Intentional Clarity vs. Forcing Outcomes: The conversation distinguishes between beneficial focus (clarity of intent and athletic response) and detrimental intensity (trying too hard to steamroll or force a result). Energy as the Driver of "The Zone": The coach breaks down how entering and sustaining peak performance states requires the right balance and quality of physical, emotional, and motivational energy. Aligning Self-Image with Achievement: Michael explores how off-course reflections, journaling, and owning past accomplishments eliminate self-doubt and prevent performance surprises when shooting low scores. Disconnecting from Past Scar Tissue: A tactical approach is shared for overcoming sudden intrusive memories of past bad shots by explicitly calling them out as outdated and refocusing on the current execution process. Creating Personal Momentum in Suboptimal Settings: Strategies are discussed for staying engaged and finding joy during long or quiet rounds, such as walking instead of driving carts or taking time to process shots without overthinking. And more mental golf tips. Follow Wicked Smart Golf   Follow on TikTok Follow on Instagram   Subscribe on YouTube

  6. Oct 6

    534: 7 Warm Up Mistakes Winners Avoid At All Costs

    >>Master Mobility & Flexibility with GolfForever: 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%).  >>Simplify Golf Fitness at Home with Dynamic Golfers: Follow no-equipment, at home routines for pre-round and to improve mobility (use code "WICKEDSMART" to save 10%)  7-Day FREE Shot Pattern Trial: The best golf GPS + stat tracking to help you manage your round and make better decisions (20% off w/my link). Most golfers think their round starts when they hit their opening tee shot—but your performance is often influenced by what you do in the 60 minutes before you tee off. In this episode, I'm breaking down 7 common pre-round mistakes that can cost you shots before the round even begins.  I'll also share the pre-round strategies I use in tournament golf to activate my body, prepare my mind, build confidence, and make the first tee feel like just another shot. In this episode, you'll learn: Why you need to activate your body before hitting balls Why arriving early makes it much easier to prepare without feeling rushed. How to use your car ride to get mentally ready instead of scrolling, stressing, or thinking about your swing. Why most golfers have a pathetic putting warm-up and how to make those final minutes more productive. How planning your opening holes can eliminate unnecessary decisions and uncertainty. Why score goals can create unnecessary pressure before you've even hit a shot The goal isn't to find your golf swing 20 minutes before your tee time. It's to get your body activated, mind prepared, and game ready so you can step onto the first tee with confidence. LEARN THE WICKED SMART GOLF SYSTEM Apply for 1:1 performance coaching with Michael (limited spots available) Join Wicked Smart Golf Academy To Lower Your HDCP Fast: Proven paths to break 90, break 80, and crush competitive golf (no swing changes required) 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%). 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

  7. Oct 2

    James Berry: Proven Mental Golf Techniques of the Pros (Flashback Friday)

    >>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 LEARN THE WICKED SMART GOLF SYSTEM Apply for 1:1 performance coaching with Michael (limited spots available) Join Wicked Smart Golf Academy To Lower Your HDCP Fast: Proven paths to break 90, break 80, and crush competitive golf (no swing changes required) 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). 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%). *]:pointer-events-auto scroll-mt-[calc(var(--header-height)+min(200px,max(70px,20svh)))]" dir="auto" tabindex="-1" data-turn-id= "request-68f63a7d-4eac-8331-924e-52e8184b7198-23" data-testid= "conversation-turn-232" data-scroll-anchor="true" data-turn= "assistant"> James Berry is a former professional golfer, performance coach, and author of The College Golfer. Drawing from years of competing at an elite level and guiding top players, James breaks down what truly separates great golfers from the pack.  In this episode, we explore the habits, mindset, and training principles that fuel consistent performance—including how to practice with purpose, manage pressure, and build the confidence to compete at your best. When you listen to this interview, you will learn: The power of your self-image Why you need to develop discipline How to simulate driving pressure practice at the range Habits of the professional golfers he works with that you can steal  Follow James Berry on Instagram and check out his website.  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

  8. Oct 1

    533: Jess Lapachinski - Overcoming Bad Shots, Building Routines, External Focus, & On-Course Mindset

    >>Speed Train With Rypstick: The #1 speed trainer to add 10+ yards in 40 days or less (use code WICKEDSMART to save 20%)  >>Download my FREE distance guide to add 10+ yards in 60 days LEARN THE WICKED SMART GOLF SYSTEM Apply for 1:1 performance coaching with Michael (limited spots available) Join Wicked Smart Golf Academy To Lower Your HDCP Fast: Proven paths to break 90, break 80, and crush competitive golf (no swing changes required) Join the Wicked Smart Golf Newsletter and get 5 FREE practice plans. Recommended Products Shot Pattern: The best golf GPS + stat tracking to help you manage your round and make better decisions (20% off w/my link). 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%). *]:pointer-events-auto scroll-mt-[calc(var(--header-height)+min(200px,max(70px,20svh)))]" dir="auto" tabindex="-1" data-turn-id= "request-68f63a7d-4eac-8331-924e-52e8184b7198-23" data-testid= "conversation-turn-232" data-scroll-anchor="true" data-turn= "assistant"> ABOUT THIS EPISODE Jess Lapachinsky is a sports performance mental coach and strength and conditioning coach with around 20 years of experience working with athletes and coaches. After working extensively in strength conditioning, student-athlete development, and coaching at a private boarding school, she pursued a master's degree in sports and exercise psychology. Today, through her private practice, Victory Lap Mindset, she provides individualized mental coaching to youth, collegiate, and professional golfers.  Topics Covered Developing a Flexible Mindset: How successful golfers manage on-course adversity by accepting that rounds rarely go perfectly. Redefining Confidence: Viewing confidence as a forward-thinking mindset and a belief in one's ability to handle mistakes, rather than relying strictly on past success. Managing Negative Self-Talk: Strategies for allowing initial negative thoughts to pass without judgment and using intentional "second thoughts" to refocus on the next shot's process. Body Language and "Eyes Up Always": Utilizing positive posture, inspired by Rory McIlroy, to improve breathing, project confidence, and support teammates. External Focus vs. Swing Mechanics: Why players should prioritize external targets over internal technical swing thoughts to prevent hesitation and stiffness. Pre-Round & Night-Before Routines: Emphasizing the rule of "nothing new on game day," visualizing the first three holes, and staying anchored in a consistent pre-shot routine. Journaling and Off-Course Growth: Why writing down reflections and tracking successes helps athletes retain perspective and process mental growth. And more mental golf tips. Follow Jess Lapahinski on Instagram and check out her website.  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

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Hosts & Guests

4.9
out of 5
144 Ratings

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 2 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.

Information

  • Creator
    Michael Leonard
  • Years Active
    2022 - 2026
  • Episodes
    634
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026
  • Show Website
    Wicked Smart Golf

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