Golfers often think upgrading to the latest driver will add yards to their shots. Jim Flynn noticed how one golfer, despite constantly buying new drivers, was still stuck at 200 yards. Instead of chasing the next shiny club, he suggested using that money for lessons to improve skills. And if…
Your emotions can have a direct impact on your performance in sports. Billy Bondaruk shared insights from a fascinating sports psychology study. Researchers found that when athletes were upset, their heart activity dropped, and their performance suffered. But when they recalled positive moments, their heart activity increased, and they performed…
The fine line between success and failure is something every professional golfer knows well. Gary Christian spoke about the challenges of the Korn Ferry Tour. On the Korn Ferry Tour, the difference between keeping or losing your card can be razor-thin. For many players, growth comes from gaining experience, adjusting…
Focusing on the present moment is one of the most powerful tools in golf. Gary Christian discussed the importance of staying mentally sharp. Rather than worrying about scores or past mistakes, he committed fully to each shot. By visualizing the outcome and staying present, he found confidence in his routine.…
golfsmarter.com GS#994 Summary As we've done over the last few years during the week of The Masters, we feature a new conversation with Dr. Bob Jones IV, grandson of the legendary golf icon, Bobby Jones. Besides his profession as a clinical Psychologist, Bob is a well versed golf historian with…
Staying calm after a bad shot can make all the difference on the golf course. Jim Flynn shared some valuable advice about avoiding impulsive decisions. When a shot goes wrong, the worst thing you can do is try to fix it with an aggressive swing. Instead, take a breath, reset,…
Reading greens is a skill that challenges even experienced golfers. John Graham noted that flat-looking greens can be the hardest to judge. The break is often subtle, making precise reads difficult. Quick decision-making is key, especially when the slope isn’t obvious. Listen to the full Golf Smarter episode here!: https://www.golfsmarter.com/category/podcasts/…
The firmness of the ground can change your entire approach in golf. Jim Waldron shared how a lower bounce wedge is often best on compact sand or a hard pan. Too much bounce can lift the leading edge, causing poor contact. Knowing how to adjust based on the lie can…
Golf is more than just physical skill. For Gary Christian, it’s about finding that one thing that makes everything come together under pressure. Some call it mental toughness, others call it focus. Whatever it is, it often makes the biggest difference. Listen to the full Golf Smarter episode here!: https://www.golfsmarter.com/category/podcasts/…
golfsmarter.com GS#993 Summary Atlanta has won the exciting championship of TGL in their inaugural season. Lucas Glover was the backup player for Atlanta Drive GC during the Championships, and sitting next to him in the owner's box was his agent, and our friend Mac Barnhardt. In this episode we speak…
Golf isn’t just about the perfect swing; it’s about resilience. Gary Christian shared how the road to the PGA Tour is rarely a straight line. There are setbacks, unexpected turns, and moments of doubt. But every detour builds strength, character, and the will to keep going. Listen to the full…
Improving your golf swing doesn’t mean fixing every little detail. Jim Waldron discussed 'fatal flaw practice,' which focuses on correcting the biggest issue in a player’s swing. He explained that trying to perfect everything at once isn’t effective. Instead, identifying and correcting the most damaging mistake leads to real progress.…
Native American-owned resorts and golf courses operate in a unique way. Will Foust explained how the Yocha Dehe Wintun Nation runs Cache Creek Casino Resort and decides its own business ventures. The resort is more than just a casino, offering golf, dining, and spa experiences. This mix of tradition and…
Casinos and golf have become closely connected in Native American nations. Will Foust shared how tribal leaders who loved golf wanted to bring the game into their business ventures. They created Yocha Dehe Golf Club as part of Cache Creek Casino in 2008. Over time, the club earned recognition as…
golfsmarter.com GS#992 Summary This episode features a conversation with filmmaker and author Mallory Kennedy about her unique perspective on energy management in sports and life. We explore the concept of curses and blessings, the importance of self-awareness, and how energy can impact athletic performance. Mallory shares her personal journey of…
Chipping requires different techniques depending on the situation. Jim Waldron explained that using an eight iron in the rough the same way as on the fairway doesn’t work well. Instead, a steeper angle with some wrist movement helps get the best result. This simple adjustment can make a big difference…
A strong short game can make a big difference in golf scores. There are four key shots to master: partial wedge shots, green-side bunker shots, chip-and-run shots, and lob wedge pitches. Jim Waldron explained how each one plays a role in scoring better. Focusing on these fundamentals can lead to…
Hypnosis can help golfers stay calm under pressure. It works by guiding the subconscious to focus and build confidence during key moments. Ken Holloway shared how simple mental techniques can improve short putts and overall performance. Sometimes, the biggest challenge isn’t skill, it’s mindset. Listen to the full Golf Smarter…
Every golfer experiences flow in a different way. A beginner’s best round won’t look like a professional’s, but both are playing at their highest level. Stephen Baker explained that staying out of your own way is just as important as skill. Golf isn’t just physical; it’s mental, too. Listen to…
golfsmarter.com GS#991 Summary This week we talk to author Jim Flynn, who shares insights about his humorous approach to golf and writing. Flynn discusses his book 'Hit Your Second Shot First,' which combines a touch of snarkiness and golf humor with practical advice for golfers who appreciate a light-hearted take…
Golf performance follows a pattern of learning, practicing, and resting. The four stages of flow that help golfers improve over time are: 1. Struggle 2. Release 3. Focus 4. Recovery Stephen Baker broke down how each phase plays a role in playing at a high level. Listen to the full…
Even the best golfers don’t make every putt. Professionals only sink half their putts from eight feet away, yet many amateurs expect to do better. Dr. Joseph Parent stressed that focusing on execution, not just results, is the real key to improvement. A well-hit putt matters more than whether it…
Helping students improve at golf shouldn't revolve around mastering every technical detail. The key is focusing on making each shot better than the last. Justin Tang shared how this mindset helps his students more. The real goal is consistent improvement, not perfection. Listen to the full Golf Smarter episode here!:…
People enter a light hypnotic state more often than they realize. For example, driving home on a familiar route can feel automatic, with the mind drifting elsewhere. As Ken Holloway mentioned, hypnosis works the same way, helping people focus while staying in control. It’s not something strange or unusual, just…