Wicked Smart Golf

I LOVE the US Open but this tournament has felt like a major let down for fans - both at the event and on TV.

WICKED SMART GOLF RESOURCES

Work with Michael for Mental Golf Coaching

Take your practice to the next level with my FREE mini-course: Practice Like a Pro.

Master your pre-shot routine in golf to save 3–5 shots per round: Join Pre-Shot Like a Pro.

Learn how to shoot lower scores every round (no swing changes): Score Like a Scratch Golfer.

Also, don't forget to connect on social media:

Follow on TikTok

Follow on Instagram

Subscribe on YouTube

Buy my golf book on Amazon ("Wicked Smart Golf: How to Play Better Golf and Shoot Lower Scores Without Changing Your Swing")

Make sure to SUBSCRIBE to get new episodes each week so you can play better without swing changes.

Stop steering your driver and use this 5-minute Friday episode to hit more fairways.

WICKED SMART GOLF RESOURCES

Work with Michael for Mental Golf Coaching

Take your practice to the next level with my FREE mini-course: Practice Like a Pro.

Master your pre-shot routine in golf to save 3–5 shots per round: Join Pre-Shot Like a Pro.

Learn how to shoot lower scores every round (no swing changes): Score Like a Scratch Golfer.

Also, don't forget to connect on social media:

Follow on TikTok

Follow on Instagram

Subscribe on YouTube

Buy my golf book on Amazon ("Wicked Smart Golf: How to Play Better Golf and Shoot Lower Scores Without Changing Your Swing")

Make sure to SUBSCRIBE to get new episodes each week so you can play better without swing changes.

Bad shots (and bad holes) suck... but they're part of golf. Do you let a bad hole or stretch of holes define you? Or, do you fight through it and salvage the round?

After a horrific front 9 in my latest tournament, I bounced back with eight shots better on the back nine. How? By using these seven strategies which we'll cover in the podcast:

1. Stay present and don't let your mind wander

2. Commit 100% effort on the next shot (including your pre-shot routine). All it takes is one good swing to get your round headed in the right direction

3. Play safer than normal - don't try "get one back" on the next hole as it often compounds your mistakes

4. Watch your self-talk so you don't make things any harder on yourself (but don't be afraid to laugh it off either)

5. Adopt an optimistic attitude

6. Accept the challenge - it's not how you start, it's how you finish

7. Forget about your ego and worrying about what others will think

Finally, make sure you keep breathing too! Don't send your mind into fight or flight mode and panic from not breathing like normal when you're stressed out on the golf course.

How to Start Playing Wicked Smart Golf

Work with Michael for Mental Golf Coaching

Take your practice to the next level with my FREE mini-course: Practice Like a Pro.

Master your pre-shot routine in golf to save 3–5 shots per round: Join Pre-Shot Like a Pro.

Learn how to shoot lower scores every round (no swing changes): Score Like a Scratch Golfer.

Also, don't forget to connect on social media:

Follow on TikTok

Follow on Instagram

Subscribe on YouTube

Buy my golf book on Amazon ("Wicked Smart Golf: How to Play Better Golf and Shoot Lower Scores Without Changing Your Swing")

Make sure to SUBSCRIBE to get new episodes each week so you can play better without swing changes.

Not all golf gifts are created equal!

Show your dad some love this Father's Day by getting him an epic golf gift.

After being a golf writer for 5+ years and trying out tons of gadgets, training aids, and accessories I wanted to give you my top picks.

These seven gifts are all available on Amazon and sure to help him play "wicked smart golf." '

1) Golf Forever Swing Trainer

If you watched "Full Swing" on Netflix, chances are you saw the PGA players using this device.

It's a great swing trainer + golf workout to help keep your dad stay healthy and playing golf for a long time.

Grab it on Amazon.

2) Voice Caddie SC300i Launch Monitor

I've tested tons of launch monitors but this is my favorite by far.

It's a great price, provides tons of data, and has on screen display.

Not to mention, it's easy to use (and works with or without an app too).

Great gift if your dad loves to practice.

Grab it on Amazon.

3) The Tournament Golfer's Playbook

After interviewing the author of my podcast a few weeks ago, I can say this is one of my favorite golf books ever.

If your dad loves competition (or wants to play better under pressure) this book will help.

Get it on Amazon

4) Bushnell GPS

Help dad navigate the golf course with a low-priced, easy to use golf GPS.

It's so small you can keep in your pocket and provides front/middle/back distances.

Get it on Amazon.

5) Pro Path Golf Putting Mirror

This is my FAVORITE putting training aid that I use regularly.

After testing out different ones this is by far the best as it helps with shoulder & eye alignment.

Plus, it helps improve path too and is extremely well-made.

Get it on Amazon.

6) Super Speed Golf

Help your dad gain distance and hit bombs by getting him some speed training sticks.

All it takes is 15–20 minutes a week, 3-4X using the protocols to start hitting it longer than ever.

They have senior versions too.

Get it on Amazon.

7) Wicked Smart Golf Book

Lastly, I can't forget to include my book, Wicked Smart Golf

It has 111 ways to play better golf WITHOUT swing changes using my 5-pillar approach.

Grab it on Amazon.

Hopefully these gifts help you impress dad if you aren't nearby... but if you are, try to play golf with him and make some memories.

Learn the ONE question you need to ask when you're in fairway bunkers to save shots every round.

WICKED SMART GOLF RESOURCES

Work with Michael for Mental Golf Coaching

Take your practice to the next level with my FREE mini-course: Practice Like a Pro.

Master your pre-shot routine in golf to save 3–5 shots per round: Join Pre-Shot Like a Pro.

Learn how to shoot lower scores every round (no swing changes): Score Like a Scratch Golfer.

Also, don't forget to connect on social media:

Follow on TikTok

Follow on Instagram

Subscribe on YouTube

Buy my golf book on Amazon ("Wicked Smart Golf: How to Play Better Golf and Shoot Lower Scores Without Changing Your Swing")

Make sure to SUBSCRIBE to get new episodes each week so you can play better without swing changes.

Colton Kalkanis is a former pro golfer, fitness coach for men over 35, and now a professional long driver. He finished second in the 2022 World Long Drive amateur championship and has big goals for this year.

In this episode we cover everything from his time as a pro golfer, speed training, and his life as a long driver. Plus, we cover:

• His new brand deal for 2023
• How he get to 140+ mph clubhead speed
• What the pressure of Q-school is really like
• How the everyday golfer can benefit from speed training
• If you should focus on speed or work on your mechanics first
• The importance role of fitness to playing your best golf more consistently

And a lot more in this epic interview.

Make sure to follow Colton on Instagram for daily tips to gain speed and get in better shape. Plus, make sure to slide in his DMs to learn more about his coaching programs. Lastly, don't forget to subscribe to him on YouTube as well.

Instagram

YouTube

How to Start Playing Wicked Smart Golf

Work with Michael for Mental Golf Coaching

Take your practice to the next level with my FREE mini-course: Practice Like a Pro.

Master your pre-shot routine in golf to save 3–5 shots per round: Join Pre-Shot Like a Pro.

Learn how to shoot lower scores every round (no swing changes): Score Like a Scratch Golfer.

Also, don't forget to connect on social media:

Follow on TikTok

Follow on Instagram

Subscribe on YouTube

Buy my golf book on Amazon ("Wicked Smart Golf: How to Play Better Golf and Shoot Lower Scores Without Changing Your Swing")

Make sure to SUBSCRIBE to get new episodes each week so you can play better without swing changes.

After recapping one of my worst rounds a few weeks ago it's time to recap one of my best rounds - a bogey free 69 in a tournament.

In this episode you'll learn five tips to help you play better without swing changes for lower scores.

WICKED SMART GOLF RESOURCES

Work with Michael for Mental Golf Coaching

Take your practice to the next level with my FREE mini-course: Practice Like a Pro.

Master your pre-shot routine in golf to save 3–5 shots per round: Join Pre-Shot Like a Pro.

Learn how to shoot lower scores every round (no swing changes): Score Like a Scratch Golfer.

Also, don't forget to connect on social media:

Follow on TikTok

Follow on Instagram

Subscribe on YouTube

Buy my golf book on Amazon ("Wicked Smart Golf: How to Play Better Golf and Shoot Lower Scores Without Changing Your Swing")

Make sure to SUBSCRIBE to get new episodes each week so you can play better without swing changes.

Learn how to putt like your personality type (following the Mental Golf Type system) to make more putts!

WICKED SMART GOLF MENTAL GAME RESOURCES

Work with Michael for Mental Golf Coaching

Download the Mental Golf Playbook (100% FREE).

Unlock your potential by taking your FREE mental game assessment: Mental Golf Type

Master your pre-shot routine in golf to save 3–5 shots per round: Join Pre-Shot Like a Pro.

Also, don't forget to connect on social media:

Follow on TikTok

Follow on Instagram

Subscribe on YouTube

Buy my golf book on Amazon ("Wicked Smart Golf: How to Play Better Golf and Shoot Lower Scores Without Changing Your Swing")

Make sure to SUBSCRIBE to get new episodes each week so you can play better without swing changes.

Tournament golf is NOTHING like a normal round of golf with your friends.

The journey from an amateur player to a skilled tournament golfer is often paved with challenges, dedication, and strategic insights. If you want to compete at the highest level, Mike Booker's book, "The Tournament Golfer's Playbook," has emerged as a guiding light.

After reading it I instantly reached out to get Mike on the podcast. Despite being a golf writer and playing in hundreds of days of tournaments myself I learned so much from his book.

For those of you that don't know, Mike Booker is a revered name in the golf community, known for his remarkable achievements as a tournament golfer.

As mentioned on his website, "Mike Booker is well known in Texas amateur golf and beyond. He has won a record number of Texas Golf Association events and multiple Texas Player of the Year distinctions. In 2019, he was inducted into the Texas Golf Hall of Fame, joining the likes of Jackie Burke and Ben Hogan. "

With years of experience and a passion for the game, he has not only found success but also love sharing his knowledge with others. As a player who has triumphed over numerous challenges and competed in prestigious tournaments, his insights carry immense weight and credibility.

His book, "The Tournament Golfer's Playbook" serves as a comprehensive guide for golfers aiming to excel in tournament play. From novices seeking to break into the competitive circuit to seasoned players looking to enhance their performance, this playbook caters to all skill levels.

Within the pages of "The Tournament Golfer's Playbook," you will learn so much to help play better under pressure. You will learn:

• The two types of tournament golfers
• A powerful on course breathing technique
• Why a pre-shot routine can help you get in the zone
• The shocking reason you should NEVER try to "make" putts

And so much more.

"The Tournament Golfer's Playbook" by Mike Booker is an essential resource for anyone aspiring to become a successful tournament golfer. Think of it as a guide that unlocks the secrets of tournament golf.

By delving into the pages of this invaluable book, any type of golfer can learn how to perform under pressure. Grab a copy of his book now on Amazon.

How to Start Playing Wicked Smart Golf

Work with Michael for Mental Golf Coaching

Take your practice to the next level with my FREE mini-course: Practice Like a Pro.

Master your pre-shot routine in golf to save 3–5 shots per round: Join Pre-Shot Like a Pro.

Learn how to shoot lower scores every round (no swing changes): Score Like a Scratch Golfer.

Also, don't forget to connect on social media:

Follow on TikTok

Follow on Instagram

Subscribe on YouTube

Buy my golf book on Amazon ("Wicked Smart Golf: How to Play Better Golf and Shoot Lower Scores Without Changing Your Swing")

Make sure to SUBSCRIBE to get new episodes each week so you can play better without swing changes.

Laying up is a LOSING strategy - despite being sage advice.

Simply put, when you hit it closer to the green you give yourself shorter putts & shoot lower scores.

As mentioned in this Golf.com article, "There's no range — for any skill level — where laying up to a favorite number, club or any other "favorite" makes mathematical sense if your other option is to send your next shot farther up the fairway (even if it ends up in light rough).

The rub is that most golfers, especially weekend players, overestimate the potential success of hitting a 4-iron to a "preferred" layup yardage and underestimate the odds of hitting a 3-wood into a safe position nearer the hole. Send it when you can is your best strategy when you can lay up to any distance you want."

You aren't better at 80 vs. 40 yards (or whatever you think is your perfect distance). Sure, you might change strategies on some shots based on hazards or bunkers but don't lay up voluntarily for a perfect club or distance.

You will shoot lower scores when you have shorter approach shots. Save the layups for basketball and start attacking par 5s to score like a pro.

WICKED SMART GOLF RECOMMENDATIONS

Work with Michael for Mental Golf Coaching

10X your confidence on the greens with the Look and Shoot Method.

Take your practice to the next level with my FREE mini-course: Practice Like a Pro.

Master your pre-shot routine in golf to save 3–5 shots per round: Join Pre-Shot Like a Pro.

Learn how to shoot lower scores every round (no swing changes): Score Like a Scratch Golfer.

Also, don't forget to connect on social media:

Follow on TikTok

Follow on Instagram

Subscribe on YouTube

Buy my golf book on Amazon ("Wicked Smart Golf: How to Play Better Golf and Shoot Lower Scores Without Changing Your Swing")

Make sure to SUBSCRIBE to get new episodes each week so you can play better without swing changes.