In this episode Kathy challenges the idea of an "off-season" for mental golf. While the colder months may sideline physical play, now is actually the best time to strengthen your mental game. Kathy shares four powerful practices to develop mental resilience that applies on and off the course. Listeners will learn how to set daily intentions, master the STEAR method for thought awareness, process emotions in 60-90 seconds, and shift limiting beliefs. These skills aren't just for golf — they’re for life. If you want to walk into your next golf season calmer, more confident, and ready to perform under pressure, this episode is a must-listen. Don't wait for spring to start working on your mental game — start now!

In this reflective episode, Kathy guides listeners through a powerful "Year in Review" process designed to set them up for a successful 2025 golf season. Sharing insights from her live membership call, Kathy encourages golfers to take a "post-year evaluation" similar to a post-round analysis. She emphasizes the importance of focusing on what went well — a mindset shift from the usual tendency to dwell on mistakes.

Listeners are guided to assess key areas like their handicap progression, rounds played, practice habits, tournament experiences, mental growth, course management, and even social wins. Kathy poses thought-provoking questions, challenging golfers to recognize small wins that often go unnoticed, such as managing emotions, recovering from mistakes faster, and making smarter course decisions. With humor and insight, she reminds golfers to "shake their hamster cage" by embracing challenges and stepping out of their comfort zones. By the end of the episode, listeners are equipped with actionable steps to close the year feeling proud and ready for growth in the coming season.

Connect with Kathy at KathyHartWood.com

In this episode Kathy dives into a topic every golfer (and human) can relate to: the frustration of not seeing results as quickly as we’d like. Whether it’s on the course or in life, we’ve all been tempted to quit when the payoff doesn’t match the effort. Kathy breaks down why this happens, how our brains play tricks on us, and what we can do to shift our mindset for better outcomes.

Learn how to:

• Identify the mental roadblocks that hold you back.
• Detach your self-worth from your performance.
• Replace impatience and shame with curiosity and acceptance.
• Use powerful questions to reframe your journey.
• Stop arguing with reality and embrace the process.

By the end, you’ll understand why you’re exactly where you’re supposed to be and how to grow from here.

Key Moments:

• [00:01] Introduction: Why quitting feels easier than pushing through.
• [05:30] The two types of quitting: The big quit vs. the little quit.
• [10:15] Why effort doesn’t always equal results in golf.
• [15:40] The shame spiral: How we attach self-worth to results.
• [20:00] Reframing expectations: How fast should progress happen?
• [25:10] The ultimate question: How do you think you’ll feel when you “get there”?
• [30:00] The secret to faster results: Feeling fulfilled right now.

Resources Mentioned:

• Think Above Par Membership: Join weekly calls and live coaching sessions with Kathy. Learn more here!
• Kathy Hart Wood website

n this milestone 200th episode of Think Above Par,  Kathy dives into "10 Ways Golf Impacts Your Life." She shares heartfelt insights on how mastering the mental game of golf doesn't just improve your performance on the course but transforms your daily life. From managing emotions and building self-confidence to creating stronger relationships and even reducing road rage, this episode is packed with wisdom, humor, and inspiration. Tune in to celebrate this special episode and discover why working on your mental game is the gift that keeps on giving—on and off the course.

Kathyhartwood.com

This episode dives into the transformative power of gratitude both on and off the course. Learn how practicing thankfulness can boost your resilience, calm your nerves, and improve your golf game—even when you're struggling to find the fairway. With research-backed insights, practical tips, and relatable humor, this episode will help you shift your mindset and elevate your performance. Tune in, and discover why gratitude is the ultimate game-changer for golfers and life.

KathyHartWood.com

In this inspiring and insightful interview, Kathy sits down with trailblazer Suzy Whaley, the first woman to become the President of the PGA of America and one of only a few women to have played in a PGA Tour event. Suzy shares her journey of breaking barriers in the male-dominated golf world, from qualifying for the Greater Hartford Open to leading one of golf's most influential organizations. The conversation dives into the challenges women face in the sport, the importance of fitting equipment, overcoming imposter syndrome, and the joy of playing golf without perfection. Suzy emphasizes the significance of enjoying the game, staying present, and giving yourself grace, whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned competitor. With humor and honesty, Suzy and Kathy discuss the importance of mindset, how to embrace competition, and ways to empower more women to own their place on the golf course.

Connect with Kathy at KathyHartWood.com/join

In this episode of Think Above Par, Coach Kathy dives into the power of three simple words: "I get to." Shifting from "I have to" to "I get to" can completely change how we approach both life and the golf course. Kathy shares personal stories, including a moment when this shift helped her reframe a difficult situation, and breaks down how this mindset shift creates gratitude, hope, and fulfillment instead of pressure and resentment. Whether you’re teeing off early or practicing in challenging conditions, this episode will inspire you to embrace your opportunities rather than feeling burdened by them.

Connect with Kathy at KathyHartWood.com

Email Kathy at [email protected]

In this episode, Kathy dives into the sneaky world of golf intimidation—whether it’s that monster par-3 staring you down, the big-hitting player in your group, or that nagging feeling that’s got you second-guessing your game.

Kathy shares why intimidation is more about our thoughts than the hole or the person on the tee box next to us. You’ll learn why intimidation is just a choice (no, really!) and how to switch from feeling intimidated to feeling calm, confident, and ready to play your best.

Expect some laughs, “aha!” moments, and practical tips you can bring to the course this weekend.

Get the book: Mastering Your Golf Brain: A Guide to Self-Coaching

Stay in the loop at KathyHartWood.com

In this episode of Think Above Par, we’re excited to share a powerful interview with Dr. Alison Curdt, a dual PGA and LPGA Master Professional, and a clinical sports psychologist. Kathy and Dr. Curdt dive into the mental side of golf, exploring topics that affect golfers at all levels.  Dr. Curdt shares her unique approach to balancing golf coaching, psychology, and competition while still being an active competitor herself.

Key takeaways include:

• How self-concept impacts a golfer’s mindset and performance
• Embracing competitiveness as a strength, not a character flaw
• The importance of setting boundaries on and off the course to protect your mental game
• Why no one is watching you as closely as you think—understanding the “spotlight effect”
• How to nurture your mental game for lasting success

If you're ready to strengthen your golf brain, Dr. Curdt's insights will provide practical tips to shift your perspective and elevate your performance, whether you’re just starting or competing at a high level.

Golf For Women Summit Vip Link to watch the replay

Get the book: Mastering Your Golf Brain: A Guide to Self-Coaching

Stay in the loop at KathyHartWood.com

Can you sense other people’s emotions or energy on the golf course?  This episode is all about the empathetic golfer—you know, the one who feels every vibe on the course, whether it’s the joy of a great shot or the tension of a missed putt. We’ll chat about how empathy, that beautiful gift, can shape your golf experience, sometimes for better, sometimes for worse. You’ll learn how to set boundaries, keep your cool, and, of course, give back those pesky ‘dust bunnies’ of negative energy that don’t belong to you. Tune in, laugh a little, and discover how to make your empathy work for you, not against you, on and off the course.

Stay connected with Kathy at KathyHartWood.com/join