On this captivating episode of The Golf Parent Podcast, I'm joined by Alex Hutchinson—elite athlete, award-winning journalist, and author of the New York Times bestseller "Endure" and his brand new book: "The Explorer's Gene". We dive deep into the fascinating science behind mental and physical limits and reveal how the mind truly controls athletic performance. Alex shares powerful strategies for parents aiming to help their junior athletes push beyond perceived barriers, manage mental fatigue, and harness positive self-talk.

Together, we explore how crucial a resilient mindset is for young golfers, offering insights on achieving the elusive "flow state," managing anxiety during competition, and setting achievable yet ambitious long-term goals. Alex's background as a top-tier endurance athlete, combined with his expertise in human performance science, offers practical guidance for parents on how to nurture mental toughness and sustainable motivation in their children.

Listen in to equip your young golfer with the mental tools needed to surpass their limits, thrive under pressure, and reach new levels of performance.

Takeaways

The mind plays a crucial role in training the body.

Limits are often more mental than physical.

Self-talk can significantly influence performance.

Mental fatigue can impair physical performance.

Training can enhance mental resilience.

Flow state is a desirable psychological condition for athletes.

Listening to music can distract from physical discomfort.

Long-term goals are often underestimated by individuals.

Mental training is as important as physical training.

Athletes should practice maintaining focus under fatigue.

Sound Bites

"My mind is what's training my body."

"There's always a little more."

"Your subjective sense of effort is the master switch."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Limits and Endurance

04:07 The Role of the Brain in Endurance

07:17 Overriding Mental Barriers

10:53 Positive Techniques for Mental Resilience

19:43 Mental Fatigue vs. Physical Fatigue

25:25 Training Mental Toughness

31:01 The Flow State in Performance

39:48 The Role of Music in Training

45:21 Final Thoughts and Advice

Alex Hutchinson Links:

Website - ⁠⁠https://www.alexhutchinson.net/

Threads - https://www.threads.com/@sweat_science

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/sweat_science/

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/sweatscience

X: https://x.com/sweatscience/

Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/alex-hutchinson-048a79a/

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In this insightful and engaging episode of The Golf Parent Podcast, I chat with Cheryl Anderson—a two-time LPGA National Teacher of the Year, Golf Digest Top 50 Instructor, and former Director of Instruction at the Mike Bender Golf Academy. Cheryl brings decades of experience coaching junior golfers and shares invaluable insights into developing successful young athletes.

We dive into the essentials of creating a structured long-term athletic development plan and discuss the critical role grit and mental toughness play in achieving success on the golf course. Cheryl provides practical guidance for parents on balancing competitive ambition with enjoyment of the game, emphasizing the importance of a supportive, non-results-driven environment.

Cheryl highlights key physical attributes that can enhance a young golfer’s potential, including height, hand-eye coordination, and overall athleticism. She stresses the benefits of exposing juniors to various sports, aiding their holistic athletic development.

Additionally, Cheryl offers powerful advice on managing disappointment, understanding golf’s inherent randomness, and fostering resilience. She encourages open parent-child communication and emphasizes the importance of seeking guidance from professional coaches and available resources.

Listen in to equip yourself with the tools and mindset needed to support your junior golfer's journey toward lasting success and enjoyment of the game.

Takeaways:

• The long-term athletic development plan is crucial for junior golfers.
• Grit is a key factor in a golfer's success.
• Parents should support their child's journey without being overly results-driven.
• Physical attributes like height and hand-eye coordination can influence success in golf.
• It's important to balance competition with fun in youth sports.
• Understanding the randomness of golf can help manage expectations.
• Creating a supportive environment fosters resilience in young athletes.
• Parents should encourage open communication and self-autonomy in their children.
• Exposure to various sports can enhance overall athleticism.
• Seeking help from coaches and resources can benefit both parents and young golfers.

Sound Bites:

"Greatness requires inner toughness."

"It's a long term mastery game."

"Golf is very random."

Chapters:

00:00 The Journey of Junior Golf Development

02:55 Understanding Grit and Mindset in Golf

05:55 The Role of Parents in Junior Golf

09:02 Physical Attributes for Success in Golf

12:03 Balancing Competition and Fun

15:10 Dealing with Disappointment in Golf

17:59 Creating a Supportive Environment for Young Golfers

20:51 Final Thoughts and Resources for Parents

Cheryl Anderson Links:

Website - ⁠⁠https://www.cherylgolf.com/

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/cherylgolf/

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100064032852317

Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/cheryl-anderson-937593227/

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In this must-listen episode of The Golf Parent Podcast, I’m joined by Brian Craig, renowned former University of Kentucky golf coach and co-founder of P3 Recruits—a leading college placement service for aspiring golfers. Brian pulls back the curtain on the college recruitment process, sharing insider insights on what college coaches genuinely seek in young golfers beyond just swing mechanics.

Brian dives deep into the critical skills and character traits that make junior golfers stand out, including the vital qualities of self-motivation, resilience, and unshakeable confidence—or as Brian calls it, “moxie.” We discuss how to identify and nurture these intangibles and why good teammates can elevate an entire program.

This conversation addresses the influential role parents play in athlete development. Brian emphasizes fostering a supportive and affirming environment, prioritizing positive reinforcement, and creating a fun atmosphere that builds lasting confidence and mental toughness.

We also explore practical coaching strategies to manage tournament pressure, the importance of effective wedge play and course management, and the powerful role of mental skills such as positive self-talk and visualization. Brian underscores the need for junior golfers to drive their own athletic journey, supported by informed and encouraging parents.

Packed with actionable advice, this episode offers a clear roadmap for parents and players aiming to successfully navigate the journey from junior golf to collegiate-level competition.

Takeaways:

P3 Recruits helps students find the right college fit.

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to P3 Recruits

03:04 Challenges in College Recruitment

05:56 The Role of Coaches in Recruitment

08:47 Identifying Intangibles in Players

12:07 Toxic Traits to Avoid in Players

14:55 The Mindset of a Champion

18:12 Fostering Confidence and Moxie

20:57 Instilling Positive Beliefs in Young Golfers

24:08 Empowering Young Athletes Through Affirmations

26:04 The Role of Parents in Sports Resilience

27:16 Mentorship and the Parent-Athlete Dynamic

31:42 Performance Coaching in Junior Golf

34:12 Mastering Wedge Play and Course Management

36:55 Navigating Tournament Pressure and Nerves

41:10 The Importance of Parental Support and Perspective

P3 Recruits Links:

Website - ⁠⁠https://p3recruits.com/

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/p3recruits

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/p3recruits

Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/company/p3-recruits

The Golf Parent Links:

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In this insightful episode of The Golf Parent Podcast, I sit down with renowned golf coach Dale Abraham to discuss key strategies for developing junior golfers using the American Development Model (ADM). Dale sheds light on how the ADM emphasizes age-appropriate training, fundamental movement patterns, and the importance of playing multiple sports to build well-rounded athletes.

Dale tackles the critical issue of early specialization, outlining its dangers such as burnout and increased injury risk. He stresses the value of focusing on fun, varied athletic experiences, and fundamental skill development during a young golfer’s early years.

We delve into practical advice for parents and coaches on managing expectations, setting achievable process goals, and fostering a resilient mindset. Dale provides powerful insights into staying present on the course through awareness of thoughts and effective breathing techniques.

Listeners will learn how adaptability—accepting different swing tendencies and conditions—is vital for junior golfers’ long-term success. Dale explains how to handle missed shots constructively and avoid negative spirals by maintaining a positive outlook.

Additionally, Dale covers tournament preparation techniques, advocating for play-based practice, post-round evaluations, and balanced decision-making between aggressive swings and conservative targets. He highlights the crucial role parents play in supporting junior golfers, emphasizing realistic expectations, praising effort over outcomes, and nurturing a supportive, friendship-based relationship.

Finally, Dale underscores the importance of efficient practice routines and shares how visualization techniques significantly improve performance.

Tune in for practical guidance that equips parents and junior golfers with the tools to navigate the journey toward lasting golf success.

Key Takeaways:

In this episode of The Golf Parent Podcast, I talk with James Sieckmann—Golf Digest’s 2019 #1 ranked teacher and renowned short game specialist. Known as the “Short Game Guru,” James has coached over 150 tour pros and brings a wealth of expertise on mastering putting and chipping skills crucial for junior golfers.

James breaks down the common myths and mistakes golfers make on the putting green, revealing that putting success is rooted in developing systematic skills: consistently hitting your start line, controlling speed, and accurately reading greens. He shares his favorite putting drills, including the effective "Putting Through a Gate" technique, designed to dramatically improve accuracy and consistency.

We also dive deep into chipping techniques, emphasizing the importance of understanding club design, proper turf interaction, and how to adapt to various lies and challenging situations. James highlights the necessity of practicing a wide range of shots to build confidence and versatility around the green.

For parents of junior golfers, James offers invaluable insights on supporting young players with a healthy, long-term perspective. He stresses the importance of fostering resilience, avoiding performance pressure, and encouraging continuous improvement rather than immediate results.

Tune in to gain game-changing strategies from one of golf's greatest short game teachers, and equip your junior golfer with the tools to excel both mentally and physically on the course.

Key Takeaways:

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction and Expertise in the Short Game

02:44 Common Faults and Misconceptions in Putting

07:20 Developing a Systematic Approach to Putting

12:36 Favorite Drill: Putting Through a Gate

20:26 Advice for Parents of Junior Golfers

25:00 Favorite Drills for Putting Improvement

26:02 Mental Skills and Mindset of Elite Golfers

28:05 Chipping Technique and Shot-Making Skills

34:59 Advice for Parents and Junior Golfers

James Sieckmann's Links:

Website - ⁠⁠www.⁠⁠jsegolfacademy.com

⁠Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/james.sieckmann/

Books - https://amzn.to/4i2A3eg

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In this powerful episode of The Golf Parent Podcast, I'm joined by Shawn Callahan, a top-ranked golf instructor with over 26 years of experience as the head instructor at the legendary Butch Harmon School of Golf in Las Vegas. Now based at Abacoa Golf Club in Jupiter, Florida—one of the toughest and most competitive golf communities in the nation—Shawn shares the keys to developing young golfers into confident, skilled, and mentally tough competitors.

We dive into the importance of practicing in challenging environments and the mindset required to succeed against elite competition. Shawn provides game-changing insights into swing mechanics, emphasizing why the "impact zone" is more crucial than picture-perfect technique. He advocates for finding and embracing one's authentic swing, encouraging juniors to trust their instincts and focus on results rather than overanalyzing their movements.

Shawn breaks down effective practice techniques designed to rapidly enhance junior golfers' skills, from mastering the short game to confidently hitting mid-irons and drivers. He stresses the importance of maintaining acceleration through every shot, properly utilizing the club's bounce, and consistently finding the correct ball position.

Beyond technique, Shawn also highlights the critical role parents play in nurturing successful junior golfers. His advice centers around selecting experienced coaches, fostering a supportive atmosphere, and teaching kids to embrace the journey—focusing on the process over immediate outcomes.

Key Takeaways:

In this inspiring episode of The Golf Parent Podcast, I chat with renowned PGA Master Golf Pro John Dunigan—a Golf Digest Top 30, Golf Magazine Top 100 teacher, and U.S. Kids Golf Top 50 Master Kids Teacher—about what truly separates elite junior golfers from their peers. John emphasizes that becoming a successful golfer is about far more than talent—it's about developing resilient, courageous individuals who also excel on the course.

John dives deep into the mental game, offering practical advice on how young golfers can face fears, manage pressure, and embrace nervousness as a positive sign of growth. He urges parents and coaches to shift their focus from achieving results to mastering the process, helping juniors build courage and resilience rather than fear of judgment or failure.

We also discuss the dangers of over-professionalizing youth sports and how it can dampen the joy of playing golf. John encourages parents to create fun, pressure-free environments and highlights the importance of finding coaches who prioritize the whole player—mental, emotional, and physical development.

John also shares exciting details about his upcoming Practice Coach app, aimed at making practice sessions more efficient, enjoyable, and effective for junior golfers.

Key Takeaways:

• Elite junior golf is built on courage, work ethic, and resilience, not just talent.

• Nervousness is an ally, not an enemy; embrace it as part of growth.

• Focusing on the process, not goals, leads to sustained improvement.

• Parents and coaches should foster a fun, low-pressure environment.

• Effective coaching prioritizes holistic development.

• Innovative practice tools, like the Practice Coach app, enhance training.

Sound Bites:

"I'm trying to create a legion of golfers that goes out to play a tournament with a big fat smile on their face going, like, let's go get on the roller coaster."

"It's not whether or not you have butterflies or not. It's whether or not you can get them flying in formation, harnessing the nerves."

"Success is not an outcome. It's the way you approach playing, the process that you go through playing."

"Everybody's putting the cart before the horse."

"Goal setting is important, right? Well, I say burn your goals."

"What can we do as parents to combat the professionalization of sports to help keep it fun?"

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction and John Dunigan's Approach to Junior Golf

03:24 Teaching Courage and Overcoming Fear in Golf

05:26 Staying Focused and Putting in Your Best Effort in Golf

08:11 Dealing with Mental Farts and Bringing Focus Back to the Present

11:58 The Importance of a Fun and Non-Pressure Environment in Youth Golf

19:46 The Fear of Judgment and Pressure in Youth Sports

22:47 Balancing Fun and Competition in Junior Golf Tournaments

25:13 Life Lessons Learned from Golf

27:10 Combatting the Professionalization of Youth Sports

32:08 Finding a Coach Who Prioritizes Holistic Development

41:40 Improving Practice Sessions with the Practice Coach App

John Dunigan Links:

Website - https://www.johndunigangolf.com/

Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/@JohnDunigan

X - https://x.com/JohnDuniganGolf

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/john.dunigan/

The Golf Parent Links:

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In this episode of The Golf Parent Podcast, I chat with Josh Nichols, a Golf Psychology Coach and seasoned amateur golfer who's packed with practical advice about the mental aspects of junior golf.

Josh shares his own journey, starting golf at age 12, inspired by his father's passion for the game. He emphasizes that mistakes aren't setbacks—they're signs young players are testing their limits and genuinely improving. As Josh humorously points out, hitting the ball into the trees every now and then means they're taking healthy risks.

We discuss strategies for handling the emotional ups and downs on the golf course, with Josh offering easy-to-implement techniques like breathing exercises and mindfulness practices. These tips help junior golfers stay calm and focused, turning potential meltdowns into opportunities for growth.

Josh also outlines effective practice methods, including a mix of block, random, and challenging drills, that make practice sessions engaging and impactful. He provides candid insights into preparing for tournaments, highlighting the importance of mental adaptability under pressure.

If you're looking for straightforward, relatable advice on supporting junior golfers in both their athletic and mental development, this episode delivers the perfect balance of genuine insight and practical strategies.

Key Takeaways:

Join PGA Professional Kellie Stenzel, recognized among Golf Magazine’s Top 100 Teachers and Golf Digest’s best instructors in New York, on this insightful episode of The Golf Parent podcast.

Kellie shares valuable golf advice and golf lessons focused on junior golf training, women's golf, and mastering the golf mental game. Discover why multi-sport athletes benefit greatly from diversified youth sports development, and learn how teaching kids work ethic can significantly improve their performance and enjoyment of golf. Kellie also explores essential golf parenting tips, emphasizing the importance of properly fitted equipment and nurturing self-reliance and resilience in young athletes.

Whether you're raising young athletes aiming to become better golfers or seeking golf life lessons to enrich your child's development, Kellie's expertise in golf coaching for kids will help you foster joy, growth, and success on and off the golf course.

Takeaways:

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction and Background in Golf

03:36 The Value of Playing Multiple Sports and Avoiding Early Specialization

07:17 Writing Books for Women in Golf: Empowering and Helping Others

10:59 The Importance of Proper Equipment Fitting for Women in Golf

16:04 The Mental Aspect of Golf: A Well-Rounded Approach

20:27 Advice for Junior Golfers: Enjoy the Game and Have a Plan B

29:05 Supporting Junior Golfers: Parental Guidance and Avoiding Pressure

Links: 

Website - ⁠https://www.kelliestenzelgolf.com/

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/kelliestenzelgolf

Books - https://amzn.to/4iD7aG7

The Golf Parent

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Keywords:

golf, golf podcast, juniors, sports, supportive parents, multiple sports, specialization, writing books, women in golf, equipment fitting, mental aspect, well-rounded approach, junior golfers, parental support, golf lessons, how to play golf, golf advice, become a better golfer, youth sports development, teaching kids work ethic, golf parenting tips, junior golf training, raising young athletes, golf mental game, golf coaching for kids

What’s the difference between a golf teacher and a golf coach, and why does it matter for junior golf development? In this episode of The Golf Parent, we sit down with VJ Trolio, one of the top golf instructors in the country, to explore the keys to developing junior golfers into champions. Trolio, author of Only One Shot: Creating a Discipline Defined and Love-Driven Environment for Junior Golfers, breaks down the essential elements of planning effective practice rounds, supporting junior golfers as parents, and fostering a mindset for success.

We discuss how playing the game—not just working on technique—builds better players, the role of honesty and emotional control in parenting junior golfers, and how immersion and playfulness are crucial for long-term development. Trolio also shares how his son earned a golf scholarship to Ole Miss and what traits he looks for in young players with potential. Whether you're a golf parent or coach, this episode is packed with practical strategies to help your junior golfer thrive on and off the course.

Takeaways:

The distinction between a golf teacher and a golf coach lies in the approach: a teacher focuses on technique, while a coach takes a holistic approach and guides the player through the process of playing the game.

Playing the game and gaining experience before receiving extensive instruction can be beneficial for junior golfers.

Access to the golf course and proximity to playing the game are crucial for junior golf development.

Parents should provide honest feedback and support their child's golf journey, focusing on the process rather than solely on outcomes.

Planning practice rounds with a focus on strategy and creating usable plans can enhance a junior golfer's performance.

Developing a well-rounded athlete through participation in multiple sports and focusing on athleticism is important for junior golfers. Stay honest and avoid emotional outbursts when parenting junior golfers.

Give feedback to junior golfers after their limbic system has calmed down.

Look for junior golfers who are inspired by great shots, have gratitude for the game, and possess physical coordination.

Encourage a playful mindset and immersion in the process of improvement.

Create an environment that fosters focus and proximity to golf courses.

Chapters:

00:00 The Difference Between a Golf Teacher and a Golf Coach

02:29 The Importance of Playing the Game in Junior Golf Development

07:25 Creating a Discipline Defined and Love-Driven Environment for Junior Golfers

16:12 Planning Effective Practice Rounds

22:16 The Role of Parents in Supporting Junior Golfers

24:32 Parenting Junior Golfers: Honesty and Emotional Control

26:27 Identifying Potential: Inspiration, Gratitude, and Physical Coordination

31:28 The Power of Immersion and Playfulness

39:43 Creating an Environment for Success

Links: 

Website - https://troliogolf.com/about-vj-trolio/

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/vjtroliogolf/

X - https://x.com/VTROLIO

Books - https://www.amazon.com/V-J-Trolio-Books/s?k=V.+J.+Trolio&rh=n%3A283155

Instruction - https://www.oldwaverly.com/coachesandsessions

The Golf Parent

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