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:

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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In this episode of The Golf Parent Podcast, I sit down with Lanny Bassham, an Olympic Gold Medalist and mental performance coach, to explore how junior golfers can develop a champion’s mindset. Lanny shares the mental training system that helped him go from choking under pressure at the Olympics to dominating his sport with 22 world titles.

We dive into golf psychology, mental toughness, and confidence-building techniques that can help young golfers improve their golf swing, golf practice, and tournament performance. Lanny reveals why the top 5% of athletes prioritize mental training and how parents can support their child's junior golf development without adding pressure.

If your junior golfer struggles with performance anxiety, self-doubt, or inconsistency, this episode is packed with practical golf tips, visualization techniques, and mental exercises to help them play with confidence and focus.

Whether your child is just starting with golf lessons for kids or competing in junior golf tournaments, this episode will give you the tools to help them succeed.

🎧 Listen now and give your child the mental edge on the course!

Takeaways:

The mental game is crucial for excelling in sports, but it is often undervalued and neglected in training.

The top performers prioritize the mental game, while many others focus solely on skill development.

Parents play a significant role in shaping their children's self-image and should focus on building a positive self-image through constructive feedback and solution-oriented discussions.

Imprints, both positive and negative, influence self-image and performance.

Starting mental training at a young age can have long-term benefits for athletes. Passion is a crucial factor in sports, and parents should support and nurture their children's passion.

There are three levels of participation: interested, training to compete, and training to win. Parents should match their level of participation with their child's.

The mental game is essential in sports, and athletes and parents should prioritize mental skills training.

Overcoming fear and negative self-talk is crucial for success in sports. Developing a mental management system can help athletes stay focused and consistent.

Parents play a significant role in the mental coaching of their children and should seek resources and support to improve their understanding of the mental game.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Importance of the Mind in Sports

02:51 The Undervalued Mental Game

07:53 The Difference Between Top Performers and the Rest

10:50 The Role of Parents in Shaping Self-Image

17:56 Constructive Feedback and Solution-Oriented Discussions

21:17 The Power of Positive Imprints

29:37 Starting Mental Training at a Young Age

32:02 The Importance of Passion and Competition in Sports

36:27 The Role of Parents in Supporting Children's Passion

39:26 Understanding the Mental Game in Sports

41:45 Overcoming Fear and Negative Self-Talk

47:02 Prioritizing Mental Skills Training

01:00:47 The Role of Parents as Mental Coaches

Links: 

Website - ⁠https://withwinninginmind.com

https://mentalmanagement.com

The Golf Parent

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In this episode, Bo Watson and Shannon Shuskey break down the critical role of mental training in golf, revealing why success on the course is more mental than physical. They introduce PsychoNeuromuscular Training, a proven method that helps golfers access the "zone" or flow state on command, leading to more consistent and peak performances.

Bo and Shannon dive deep into visualization techniques, explaining how using all seven senses can enhance performance and referencing legendary golfers who have successfully incorporated mental imagery into their training. They also discuss CPR (Consistent Passionate Reaction)—a concept that highlights how emotional responses impact focus and performance under pressure.

For parents of junior golfers, this episode provides invaluable insights into creating a supportive environment, avoiding the pitfalls of performance-related pressure, and fostering mental resilience. Bo and Shannon also share practical mental training resources, ensuring both parents and athletes have the tools to develop a strong, focused, and confident mindset on the course.

If you want to unlock the true mental potential of your young golfer, this episode is a must-listen!

Chapters

00:00 The Mental Game of Golf

07:58 Unlocking the Zone: Psycho Neuromuscular Training

15:56 Visualizing Success: The Seven Senses Approach

21:04 Historical Insights: Golf Legends and Mental Imagery

23:58 The Power of Visualization in Golf

26:21 Creating Effective Triggers for Performance

29:15 Understanding CPR: Consistent Passionate Reaction

34:54 Emotional Responses and Focus in Golf

39:21 Guiding Junior Golfers: Parental Influence

45:31 Accessing Resources for Mental Training

Links: 

Book - In The Zone Secrets: How To Get In The Zone At The Flip Of A Switch

Bo’s Instagram⁠⁠ 

Shannon’s Instagram 

Website - www.InTheZoneMentalTraining.com

The Golf Parent

Instagram

YouTube

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TikTok

Book:⁠Golf Beneath the Surface⁠

In this episode of The Golf Parent Podcast, I delve deep into the psychology of performance with Dr. Raymond Prior, a renowned expert in mental performance who has worked with Olympic Gold Medalists, Major Champions, and Grammy Award winners. Dr. Prior brings his expertise to the world of golf, sharing invaluable insights for parents of junior golfers looking to enhance their child's mental game.

We explore the science behind performance psychology, debunking common myths that may hinder a young golfer’s development. Dr. Prior discusses how a growth mindset can unlock a child’s potential, why praising effort over talent is essential, and how parents can support their children during times of poor performance. We also dive into the power of mindfulness, visualization, and the importance of playing freely to reduce anxiety and foster resilience.

This episode is a must-listen for any parent seeking to understand the mental side of golf and how to help their child thrive both on and off the course. Whether your child is struggling with performance anxiety or striving for greatness, Dr. Prior’s expert advice will guide you in nurturing a mindset that sets them up for long-term success.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Golf Psychology and Performance

02:51 Debunking Myths in Golf Psychology

06:06 The Importance of a Growth Mindset

08:46 Constructive Praise and Feedback for Young Golfers

11:45 Handling Poor Performance in Young Athletes

14:53 The Role of Self-Talk and Visualization

17:45 Breathwork and Mindfulness in Golf Performance

23:49 Mental Strategies of Elite Golfers

27:09 The Importance of Playing Freely in Golf

30:06 Encouraging Children to Play Freely

32:53 Navigating Anxiety and Performance

37:12 The Role of Parental Support

45:29 Fostering Exploration and Resilience in Children

47:27 The Dangers of Allowing Children to Quit

Links: 

Dr. Raymond Prior

Book:⁠Golf Beneath the Surface⁠

Podcast:⁠https://gbtspodcast.buzzsprout.com/

Instagram:⁠https://www.instagram.com/gbtspodcast?igsh=MWt1dThhbTVlaWk2OA==

Website: https://btsmindset.com/

The Golf Parent

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In this episode of The Golf Parent, I sit down with golf coach and author Todd Kolb to dive into the art of raising passionate, resilient junior golfers. Todd shares age-specific strategies for guiding young athletes, emphasizing the value of multi-sport participation and a competitive mindset. He explores how parents can create supportive environments that encourage growth and focus on the process of improvement, rather than solely on results.

Todd also breaks down common misconceptions in golf instruction, including simplifying the short game and shifting the focus from distance to control for consistent performance. Beyond technical advice, he offers powerful insights into overcoming bad days—both on the course and in life—and explains how to avoid the pitfalls of toxic sports parenting.

Whether you're a parent looking to inspire your junior golfer or an athlete aiming to sharpen your game, Todd’s expertise will help you foster passion, resilience, and lasting success.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Youth Sports Development

02:53 Passion and Environment in Junior Golf

05:59 Nurturing Young Golfers: Parental Influence

08:56 Age-Specific Guidance for Young Golfers

12:08 Building Resilience in Young Athletes

15:09 The Importance of Multi-Sport Participation

17:48 Developing Competitive Nature in Golf

21:05 Focusing on Process Over Results in Golf

26:51 Letting Go of Bad Days

29:13 The Bad Lie: Rethinking Golf Instruction

31:08 Misconceptions in Golf Instruction for Older Players

34:26 Injury Prevention and Swing Mechanics

37:34 The Importance of Control Over Distance

39:53 Simplifying the Short Game

46:40 Strategies for Lowering Scores

50:44 Encouraging Greatness in Young Athletes

Links: 

Todd Kolb

Twitter: https://x.com/usgolftv

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/usgolftv/

Book: The Bad Lie https://www.badliegolfbook.com/

Website: https://usgolftv.com/

The Golf Parent

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In this episode of The Golf Parent, I sit down with renowned golf coach Jim Waldron to uncover the secrets to mastering both the technical and mental sides of the game. Jim shares his holistic approach to golf instruction, emphasizing the vital connection between the mind and body. We explore how cultural conditioning shapes beliefs about performance, self-worth, and resilience—and how to break free from limiting mindsets.

Jim offers invaluable insights for parents, discussing how to support young athletes in building confidence while separating their self-worth from performance outcomes. He shares techniques for taming the mind, enhancing focus, and fostering a positive internal narrative, all of which are essential for success on and off the course.

Whether you're a parent navigating the challenges of junior golf or a player seeking to unlock your full potential, this episode delivers powerful strategies to build resilience, sharpen focus, and elevate performance.

Subscribe now for more expert tips on raising junior golf champions both on and off the course!

Chapters

00:00 The Holistic Approach to Golf Instruction

02:51 Cultural Conditioning and Belief Systems

06:01 Mind-Body Connection vs. Dualism

08:48 Parenting and Mental Resilience in Sports

12:01 Balancing Authority and Nurturing in Parenting

14:50 Separating Self-Worth from Performance

18:06 Unconditional Confidence and Its Importance

21:01 The Power of Positive Storytelling

23:56 Understanding the Mind-Body Connection

26:49 The Nature of Consciousness and Reality

36:09 The Nature of Psychological Reality

39:30 Taming the Mind: Techniques for Focus

43:48 Consciousness vs. Mind: Understanding the Difference

46:24 Focal Points in Golf: The Mental Game

57:51 Creating a Positive Mindset in Golf

01:05:23 Parenting and Supporting Young Golfers

Links: 

Jim Waldron

Website - ⁠https://www.balancepointgolf.com

YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCa3zkcVp_gZ2Eq_-ElaLF8g

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

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

The Golf Parent

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