Wicked Smart Golf

>>Join Wicked Smart Golf Academy
>>Apply to be a guest on a "Wicked Smart Game Plan" episode 
In this "Wicked Smart Gameplan" Michael Leonard is joined by Kevin, a multi-talented Hollywood writer and actor. The conversation blends behind-the-scenes entertainment industry stories with strategic golf advice.
 Kevin shares insights into his acting career, including his work on the futuristic Amazon series Upload and the Fox comedy Animal Control. He opens up about the constant grind of the film industry, explaining that even established actors must continuously audition and fight for roles.
 
Hollywood Insights and Anecdotes: Kevin shares his experience working with Vince Vaughn early in his career, noting how Vaughn helped him calm down and get out of his head during a stressful shoot. 
Managing Course Disruptions: The duo tackles the mental challenge of handling unexpected outside distractions on the golf course
The "Think Box, Play Box" Approach: Kevin explains his version of this routine, which he calls the Jekyll and Hyde method. 
Speed Training Strategies: Kevin seeks advice on maintaining his swing speed while managing a busy travel schedule. 
And more golf tips to help Kevn play better without swing changes. 
If you enjoyed the episode, be sure to subscribe, leave a review, and check out the Wicked Smart Golf Academy for more mental game, practice, and course management training.
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

>>Get the Wicked Smart Car Caddy Audio Training (coaching from Michael to build confidence to and from the course)
>>Download my FREE distance guide to add 10+ yards in 60 days
July was one of my favorite months of the year. Between the San Diego City Championship at Torrey Pines, AZ Match Play, and a Men's Club event, I got to test my game on some incredible courses and learn a few lessons that every golfer can apply.
In this episode, I'm breaking down my tournament stats, what went well, what didn't, and the biggest improvements I'm making as I continue my quest to become a +5 handicap.
Why avoiding short-sided misses is the key to surviving difficult golf courses
How adding distance continues to pay huge dividends (and why speed training is worth it)
The mental game lesson I'm working on after struggling with anger on the course
A simple mindset shift to bounce back faster after a rough front nine
Why hydration can dramatically impact your focus, energy, and performance
The putting setup changes that instantly improved my start line and confidence
Why even your best rounds will include bad shots—and how accepting that leads to lower scores
Whether you're preparing for your next tournament or just trying to shoot lower scores during your weekend rounds, these lessons can help you play smarter, stay calmer, and score better.
If you enjoyed the episode, be sure to subscribe, leave a review, and check out the Wicked Smart Golf Academy for more mental game, practice, and course management training.
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 the 7-Day Pre-Shot Like a Pro Challenge
>>Get the Mental Golf Playbook (FREE)
Today's guest is Jared Tendler, one of the world's leading performance coaches and author of The Mental Game of Poker and his newest book, Everyday Golf Psychology. In this conversation, we dive deep into the psychology behind better golf—from controlling emotions and managing anger to building resilience, handling pressure, and learning why your C-game matters more than your A-game. If you've ever struggled to bounce back after mistakes or wondered how elite players consistently perform under pressure, this episode is for you.
In this episode, you will learn: 
*]:pointer-events-auto R6Vx5W_threadScrollVars scroll-mb-[calc(var(--scroll-root-safe-area-inset-bottom,0px)+var(--thread-response-height))] scroll-mt-[calc(var(--header-height)+min(200px,max(70px,20svh)))]" dir="auto" data-turn-id= "request-WEB:797e4943-6571-4476-a649-e99f3c9b45f7-54" data-turn-id-container= "request-WEB:797e4943-6571-4476-a649-e99f3c9b45f7-54" data-testid= "conversation-turn-98" data-turn="assistant"> Jared's journey from competitive golfer to one of the top mental performance coaches in the world.
Why poker and golf share many of the same mental challenges—and what golfers can learn from professional poker players.
The biggest misconception about emotional control and why you need to recognize problems before they escalate.
How to "inject logic" after mistakes to stop negative emotions from taking over your round.
The power of the A, B, and C Game framework—and why improving your C-game leads to lower scores.
How to mentally prepare before a round by setting clear priorities and realistic expectations.
The best way to review your rounds so mistakes become lessons instead of emotional baggage.
The dos and don'ts of swing thoughts, and why technical thoughts don't belong over the golf ball.
How to overcome embarrassment, recover from poor shots, and become more mentally resilient.
Whether you're trying to break 90, break 80, compete in tournaments, or simply become more mentally consistent, this episode is packed with practical psychology strategies you can use in your very next round.








WICKED SMART GOLF RESOURCES
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 the 7-Day Pre-Shot Like a Pro Challenge
Ever stripe it on the driving range only to wonder where that swing went on the first tee? You're not alone.
In this episode, I'll share five simple strategies to help your practice finally transfer to the golf course. Learn how to practice with more pressure, build routines you can trust, create game-like situations, and prepare your body and mind to perform when it matters most.
In This Episode You'll Learn:
Why most golfers practice their swing instead of practicing golf.
How to turn every range session into a realistic on-course simulation.
The best ways to add pressure so tournament golf feels easier.
Why slowing down between shots can dramatically improve performance.
How to use a pre-shot routine to bridge the gap between the range and the course.
Smarter short game and putting practice that mimics real rounds.
Why cardio, hydration, and nutrition are essential for better late-round performance.
A simple challenge to make your very next practice session more effective.
If you've ever wondered why your range game disappears once you tee it up, this episode will help you practice with more purpose and finally take your best swing to the golf course.
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

>>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.

In this Flashback Friday, I'm joined by pro golfer Brittany Fan. With years of competitive experience under her belt, she shares invaluable wisdom about tournament preparation, smart practice routines, and managing the mental highs and lows of the game.
Whether you're gearing up for a club championship or just want to play better under pressure, this conversation will help you play smarter, beat nerves, and show up prepared when it matters most.
When you listen to this episode, you will learn: 
How to level up in tournaments through preparation and mindset
The hidden costs of tournament golf
Practice strategies that actually lead to better scoring
How automatic routines help you perform under pressure
Managing expectations and avoiding mental traps on the course
Why tracking stats is essential to long-term improvement
And a lot more.
If you're serious about tournament golf—or just want to train and think like a high-level player—this episode is a must-listen.
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