620 episodes
526: Jared Tendler Gives Me a Mental Lesson (Anger, Expectations, & Annoying Playing Partners)
03/09/2026 | 1h 6 mins.>>Get the Wicked Smart Car Caddy series (audio tracks to 10X your confidence pre- and post-round)
>>Read Jared Tendler's book, Everyday Golf Psychology
In this episode, mental golf coach Michael Leonard goes from the interviewer to the client, seeking mental coaching to address his struggles with mid-round anger and control on the golf course. The session dives deep beneath the surface of these emotional outbursts to uncover the underlying anxieties about success, technical competence, and a desire to control the future. You will gain valuable insights on how to shift their perspective, own their mastered skills, and handle difficult external triggers with poise and precision.
We'll cover:
Coaches Need Coaching Too: The episode highlights the value of self-awareness and the willingness of a coach to raise their hand and ask for help to break through mental blocks.
Anger as a Symptom: Emotional reactions on the course are discussed not as the core problem, but as a symptom of a collision between reality and a golfer's skewed perception of it.
The "Is It Ever Going to Happen" Trap: The conversation exposes the anxiety of future-oriented thinking and how asking unanswerable questions about future success fuels frustration.
Owning Your "C" Game: Michael is challenged to develop conscious ownership of his baseline technical skills through a daily five-minute reflection task to build a more solid foundation.
Injecting Logic Statements: A tool is introduced to weaponize pre-made, logical thoughts in the moment of frustration to successfully lower emotional intensity on the green.
Dealing with Course Bullies: The session links Michael's intense reactions to difficult pairings with childhood bullying, framing the solution around maintaining control through calm authority rather than fighting back.
And more mental golf tips.
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- >>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)
>>Apply for a "Wicked Smart Game Plan" episode
>>Learn more about PrimePutt mats (and watch my YouTube review)
Join the Wicked Smart Golf Newsletter and get 5 FREE practice plans.
Today, Michael Leonard connects with a guest named Blake, who managed to drop his golf handicap to an impressive 2.9 in just a few years. Together, they walk through a "Wicked Smart Game Plan" specifically tailored to analyze Blake's performance stats, uncover mental barriers, and establish actionable strategies to help him transition to a scratch or plus handicap.
We'll cover:
The Importance of the Short Game: Learn why prioritizing low-point consistency and developing go-to shots around the chipping green is vital for tournament recovery.
Leveraging Data for Lower Scores: Discover how implementing a statistical tracking system like Decade Golf helped Blake shave four strokes off his scoring average.
Managing Course Aggression: Insights on breaking the habit of attacking red pins and properly executing knockdown wedge shots to avoid costly short-sided misses.
Tapping into a Game Mentality: Strategies on how to safely harness competitive intensity and focus without letting anger sabotage your emotional control.
Conquering the "Tale of Two Nines": Mental hacks and grounding techniques to stop guarding your score, stay anchored in the present moment, and successfully close out a strong round.
Handling Late-Round Short Game Pressure: How to stick to a consistent chipping routine, manage expectations, and trust your instincts even if you haven't hit a chip shot in several hours.
And more tips to play better without swing changes.
WICKED SMART GOLF 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 - >>Get Voice Caddie Launch Monitors 15% off w/code WICKEDSMART.
SC200 Plus: The easiest to use launch monitor, no app needed.
SC300i: An upgrade with access to more data using the Voice Caddie app.
SC4 Pro: Even more data and simulation to help you practice like a pro.
>>Check out the Wicked Smart Golf Practice Formula (100+ printable practice plans)
>>Get ShotPattern 20% Off
>>Use PuttView yardage books if you play in tournament golf
>>Learn more about the Tournament Golf Bootcamp
Q-School was one of the most intense golf experiences of my life and taught me lessons that still shape how I practice, prepare, and compete today.
In this episode, I'm sharing 9 lessons from my Q-School experience that can help you play better golf and perform when the pressure is on.
You'll learn:
Why you need to set big goals and chase your dreams.
Protect your love for the game and avoid letting big goals lead to burnout.
Remember that feeling nervous doesn't mean you're going to play poorly.
Stop chasing the perfect swing and focus on building one that is consistent.
Prioritize endurance, hydration, and fueling so your body can perform all day.
Build a reliable short game that can save you when your ball striking disappears.
Why you should never compare your swing or game to someone else's—focus on playing your game.
Prepare like a pro with Shot Pattern, a yardage book, and a clear game plan.
Whether you're preparing for your first club event or chasing your own version of Q-School, these lessons will help you practice smarter, prepare better, and compete with more confidence.
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 - >>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).
Today I share the wild story of going to Q-school in 2019 as an amateur golfer (despite not knowing much in the "wicked smart" world). I'll share more about registering for the event, how I prepared for it, and my scores/stories from a once-in-a-lifetime event.
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%).
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 - >>Join the Confident Putting Challenge (21 days to stop 3-putting with proven strategies and drills)
>>Get my FREE putting routine checklist
In today's episode I'm joined by Marcus Potter, founder of Potters Putting and one of the most respected putting coaches on the PGA Tour. Marcus has helped everyone from elite juniors to Tour winners develop a stroke they can trust under pressure — and today he breaks down the same principles you can use in your own game.
In this episode, we'll cover:
Why putting setup is everything.
The best training aids for your putter.
How putting tempo can clean up your stroke.
What the best golfers in the world do on the greens.
What to do when you're putting well for future success.
How to practice indoors this winter without ruining your stroke.
And a lot more tips to stop 3-putting. Make sure to follow Marcus on Instagram and use these tips to make your practice, "wicked smart" approved.
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
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About Wicked Smart Golf
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 1 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.
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- Supports Carplay & Android Auto
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