Golf Smarter

GS#1016 September 9, 2025 This week on the Golf Smarter Podcast, Chris Finn returns to delve into the myths surrounding golf fitness. Chris is a Titliest Performance Institute Certified Medical Professional, a Certified Preceision Nutrition Coach and Golf Digest Top 50 Golf Fitness Professional. We explore a recent study on the impact of footwear on golf performance, emphasizing the significance of spikes and proper shoe fit in enhancing club head speed and overall performance. Chris also discusses the evolution of golf shoe design, emphasizing the balance between performance and comfort. He explains how the biomechanics of the foot influence shoe design and performance. The discussion shifts to the importance of the body in golf performance, highlighting how mobility and strength training can optimize a golfer's capabilities. Chris provides insights into how golfers can maintain their performance as they age and offers resources for improving golf fitness and performance. Learn more at par4success.com  and c

GS#430 & #431 April 1 & 8, 2014 Dave Stockton has won 5 Majors on the PGA and Champions Tour. He's one of the Pro Tour’s hottest coaches working with Rory McIlroy, Phil Mickleson and Annika Sorenstam. This full hour+ interview about his new book is two episodes along with some bonus material that's never been shared publicly before in this format.Get more when your visit the refreshed golfsmarter.com!Introduce an Upcoming Episode: Receive free gifts for recording a show opening by clicking on "Record Your Show Open Here!" tab on the right side of golfsmarter.com. Watch Daily Video Highlights from Our Interviews: Follow @golfsmarter on Instagram, X, Facebook, TikTok, YouTube daily to see our highlights and helpful insights from our interviews on the podcast. Post a Review: you'll receive three free gifts when you post an honest review about Golf Smarter the podcast.Fill Out a Listener Survey: It only takes a few minutes to fill out our survey, which helps us to better serve your interests in the podcas

GS#1015 September 2, 2025. This week we speak with Ben Helmrath, VP PGA Tour Superstores, and "caddie" for the TGL Champion Atlanta Drive about the exciting developments in golf, particularly focusing on the rise of golf simulators. Ben shares insights into the partnership with the PGA Tour, the growth of golf retail, and the evolution of golf experiences, especially during the pandemic. He recounts his firsthand experiences with TGL at SoFi Stadium and his strategic role during matches, highlighting the innovative approach to golf that TGL represents. The conversation wraps up with a look ahead to the future of TGL and the excitement surrounding its second season. Other topics with Ben include the evolution of indoor golf, offering practical advice for setting up a home golf simulator. The discussion also covers technological innovations in golf simulators, and the importance of creating family-friendly experiences. Helmrath highlights the affordability and accessibility of modern golf technology, making it

GS#429 March 25, 2014 In the last episode, we stumped Richard Todd on a few details of specific rules. In part 2 we get the correct explanation and discuss other rules that are broken regularly because we don’t know the exact USGA wording or ruling. Unlike the painfully dry legalese of the USGA's Rules of Golf, Richard's book takes you on a round with a typical foursome as they encounter...and break.. the rules. http://TheGolfRules.comIn addition to being a lifelong golfer, Richard’s also one of the original Golf Smarter listeners from 2005. Get more when your visit the refreshed golfsmarter.com!Introduce an Upcoming Episode: Receive free gifts for recording a show opening by clicking on "Record Your Show Open Here!" tab on the right side of golfsmarter.com. Watch Daily Video Highlights from Our Interviews: Follow @golfsmarter on Instagram, X, Facebook, TikTok, YouTube daily to see our highlights and helpful insights from our interviews on the podcast. Post a Review: you'll receive three free gifts when you p

GS#1014 August 26, 2025 Dr. Izzy Justice returns to discuss the intricate relationship between brain function and golf performance from his new book, 'Your Brain Swings Every Club', which explores the cognitive aspects of golfing performance. Dr. Justice introduces the concept of 'chasing 10 hertz' to optimize mental states for better performance and emphasizes the importance of utilizing wait times effectively on the golf course. The conversation also discusses the intricate relationship between nonverbal communication and the brain, emphasizing how our sensory inputs shape our understanding of others. He draws parallels between golf and life, highlighting the mental challenges athletes face. He debunks common myths in golf, such as muscle memory and the small target theory.Please check out this article about Fred's golf and podcast journey called "A Lifetime On The Air" that was published in the NCGA Magazine (Northern California Golf Association) recently!    Get more when your visit the refreshed golfsmar

GS#428 March 18, 2014 Richard E. Todd was trained on the rules of golf by the USGA and the PGA. His new book "The Golf Rules: Stroke Play - Learn The Rules of Golf By Watching Others Break Them" is an entertaining little book that presents the rules of golf in a funny, short story format.  Unlike the painfully dry legalese of the USGA's Rules of Golf, Richard's book takes you on a round with a typical foursome as they encounter...and break.. the rules. In addition to being a lifelong golfer, he's also a one of the original Golf Smarter listeners from 2005. http://TheGolfRules.com Get more when your visit the refreshed golfsmarter.com!Introduce an Upcoming Episode: Receive free gifts for recording a show opening by clicking on "Record Your Show Open Here!" tab on the right side of golfsmarter.com. Watch Daily Video Highlights from Our Interviews: Follow @golfsmarter on Instagram, X, Facebook, TikTok, YouTube daily to see our highlights and helpful insights from our interviews on the podcast. Post a Review: you

GS#1013 August 19, 2025 In this episode we welcome back Pete Charleston, co-founder of GolfLogix, to discuss the evolution of golf technology, particularly the GolfLogix app. We explore the journey from handheld GPS devices to smartphone applications, the introduction of green books for reading greens, and the legal compliance of these tools. Pete shares insights into the mapping techniques used to gather data for greens and the challenges of user interface design, including battery life for mobile devices. The conversation also touches on the innovative features of the GolfLogix app, including its integration with Aimpoint, user feedback on app updates, and the groundbreaking 3D technology that enhances the golfing experience. Check them out at golflogix.comPlease check out this article about Fred's golf and podcast journey called "A Lifetime On The Air" that was published in the NCGA Magazine (Northern California Golf Association) recently!    Get more when your visit the refreshed golfsmarter.com!Introduce

GS#427 March 11, 2014  David MacKenzie is a mental game coach that will help you consistently play to your potential. His Golf State Of Mind method is designed to help eliminate mental mistakes. He says that small changes to your mental game can cut 5-7 shots per round. We go into depth on visualization, how to practice the Mental Game, course management, and his 9 shot drill for the practice range.   *David comes to us from a suggestion by a GOLF SMARTER listener. http://GolfStateOfMind.comGet more when your visit the refreshed golfsmarter.com!Introduce an Upcoming Episode: Receive free gifts for recording a show opening by clicking on "Record Your Show Open Here!" tab on the right side of golfsmarter.com. Watch Daily Video Highlights from Our Interviews: Follow @golfsmarter on Instagram, X, Facebook, TikTok, YouTube daily to see our highlights and helpful insights from our interviews on the podcast. Post a Review: you'll receive three free gifts when you post an honest review about Golf Smarter the podcast.

GS#1012: This week on Golf Smarter, we speak to Robert Jones Black, the great grandson of legendary golfer Bobby Jones. We discuss the legacy of Bobby Jones, the challenges of preserving that legacy within the family, and the importance of humility in their connection to such a prominent figure in golf history. Robert shares personal anecdotes about growing up with the legacy of his grandfather and the responsibility he feels to maintain the brand of Bobby Jones in today's world. Robert discusses the impact of Bobby Jones on the golf community, and the establishment of the Generation Next Project, a nonprofit aimed at addressing youth mental health through golf. The discussion also explores the connection between golf and life lessons, emphasizing the need for realistic expectations in sports and life. Robert highlights the program's approach to complement existing initiatives like First Tee, focusing on mental well-being and personal growth through the game of golf.Please check out this article about Fred's

GS#420 January 21, 2014  NFL head coach Pete Carroll was a long time friend, and former sports psychology student at University of Pacific of this week’s guest, Dr. Glen Albaugh. On the cover of Glen’s book, “Winning the Battle Within” Coach Carroll is quoted as saying “Glen’s teachings helped form my coaching philosophy.” Whether you’re rooting for Pete or not, you have to admire his attitude, and his approach to competition and winning.  Dr. Glen Albaugh has created a unique Applied Sport Psychology Consulting Service for a wide range of professional and amateur golfers. Formerly a sports psychology instructor at the University of the Pacific in Stockton, California for 28 years where he coached the Pacific Tigers golf team. It was during this time, while working with the finest sports psychologists, coaches and golf instructors in the world, that he formulated the basis for the principles in his renowned book, which was authored with Michael Bowker, Winning the Battle Within. These principles have been ref

GS#1011 Summary: This week we talk to Richard Berle, founder of GolfFit.com and the Golf Fit app, a platform designed to enhance golfers' fitness and performance. He shares his personal journey, including overcoming injuries and the realization of the importance of fitness in golf. The conversation delves into the challenges of the fitness industry, the need for personalized workout plans, and the role of community in maintaining fitness routines.  In this conversation, Richard discusses the importance of golf-specific training, emphasizing the need for golfers to adapt their workouts based on their body's feedback. He highlights the significance of core strength in preventing injuries and the necessity of finding knowledgeable trainers who understand golf fitness. Berle introduces the concept of 'winning the moment' to help individuals overcome resistance to working out and stresses the importance of pre-round workouts to prepare for a successful day on the course. Download the GolfFit app, for iOS or Androi

GS#411 November19, 2013 Kenny Giannini has created putters for Arnold Palmer, Greg Norman, Mark O’Meara and “pretty much everyone”. In this conversation, World class putter designer Kenny Giannini discusses putter components that go into creating a great putter. From this episode, you'll become more informed on each element of a putter, why it works, and what works best for you.Get more when your visit the refreshed golfsmarter.com!Introduce an Upcoming Episode: Receive free gifts for recording a show opening by clicking on "Record Your Show Open Here!" tab on the right side of golfsmarter.com. Watch Daily Video Highlights from Our Interviews: Follow @golfsmarter on Instagram, X, Facebook, TikTok, YouTube daily to see our highlights and helpful insights from our interviews on the podcast. Post a Review: you'll receive three free gifts when you post an honest review about Golf Smarter the podcast.Fill Out a Listener Survey: It only takes a few minutes to fill out our survey, which helps us to better serve your

GS#1010 This time on the Golf Smarter Podcast, Eric Alpenfels, Director of Instruction at Pinehurst,  discusses the innovative approach of instinct putting, which encourages golfers to focus on the hole rather than the ball. Alpenfels shares insights on how this technique can improve distance control and overall performance on the green, while also discussing the evolution of golf equipment and the importance of trust in the putting process. His latest book, 'Evidence-Based Golf,' contrasts empirical and non-empirical evidence, emphasizing the need for golf instructors to rely on research rather than anecdotal evidence. Please check out this article about Fred's golf and podcast journey called "A Lifetime On The Air" that was published in the NCGA Magazine (Northern California Golf Association) recently!    Get more when your visit the refreshed golfsmarter.com!Introduce an Upcoming Episode: Receive free gifts for recording a show opening by clicking on "Record Your Show Open Here!" tab on the right side of g

GS#405 October 8, 2013 Despite strict USGA guidelines, not all golf clubs perform the same. Golf Professionals play with sticks that are meticulously tailored to their swing. Amateur golfers make purchases based on what the Pros play. No matter their skill level, few golfers take advantage of being fitted for clubs that compliment their swing style. Host Fred Greene is in the market for a new Driver, fairway driver, and hybrids and was amazed to learn how different each club performs for his swing. During the 90 minute session, join Fred to learn why club head speed, launch angle, spin rate, dispersion are important, and that some older models suit him better than “the newest and the greatest”. **Note: The beep is when Nick mentioned a price that may not be available everywhere.If you'd prefer to watch this, it's available on our GolfSmarterTV channel at https://youtu.be/_TynkSmMrB0?si=fF4gsjf5y_7SRGEcPlease check out this article about Fred's golf and podcast journey called "A Lifetime On The Air" that was p

GS#1009 Summary: This week we speak to Marc Bender, Managing Partner for multiple golf companies including Hidden Links Travel, Golfpac Travel, TeeTimes USA, Go Play Golf Card, and Upper Deck Golf. In this episode, Fred and Marc discuss their connection at the Masters, the intricacies of golf course architecture, and the evolution of golf greens. Marc is well connected in the golf industry and has met and played with some of the top names in our sport. He's also traveled extensively to golf courses throughout the world so he's well equiped to discuss the evolution of golf course greens, particularly focusing on the advancements in green speeds and their impact on players. The discussion highlights how technology and agronomy have transformed the game, and how this has affected different types of players.They delve into the debates surrounding historical versus modern courses, and the importance of understanding the nuances of putting on different types of greens. The conversation highlights the passion for go

GS#402 September 17, 2013 “You’ll become a ‘golfer’ when learning becomes more important than the outcome of your shot.” Be prepared to have your normal perceptions of improvement challenged, Fred Shoemaker of Extraordinary Golf talks about his DVD.Please check out this article about Fred's golf and podcast journey called "A Lifetime On The Air" that was published in the NCGA Magazine (Northern California Golf Association) recently!   Get more when your visit the refreshed golfsmarter.com!Introduce an Upcoming Episode: Receive free gifts for recording a show opening by clicking on "Record Your Show Open Here!" tab on the right side of golfsmarter.com. Watch Daily Video Highlights from Our Interviews: Follow @golfsmarter on Instagram, X, Facebook, TikTok, YouTube daily to see our highlights and helpful insights from our interviews on the podcast. Post a Review: you'll receive three free gifts when you post an honest review about Golf Smarter the podcast.Fill Out a Listener Survey: It only takes a few minutes t

GS#1008 Summary: This week we speak to Jason Chambers, a golf instructor at Onyx Golf Academy in Orange County, California. We discuss the rise of simulator golf, its benefits and challenges, and how it caters to the needs of golfers in a densely populated area. The conversation also touches on the importance of golf instruction, decision-making in golf, and the potential of new formats like TGL to attract a younger audience to the game. We also explore the social aspects of simulator golf and how it can serve as a fun alternative to traditional golf, while also emphasizing the need for diverse instructional methods in teaching the game. Jason shares his viewpoint on the complexities of golf instruction, emphasizing the importance of understanding individual needs and the pitfalls of modern swing techniques. He highlights the necessity of practice and commitment for improvement, the joy of teaching average golfers, and the significance of learning through personal experience. Please check out this article abo

GS#395 Drivers sell. The new adjustable Drivers sell REALLY well. But do they work? Club Fitter Nick Manzano and Fred Greene discuss what is unique about the latest Drivers. We also cover purchasing used clubs, last year’s models, or getting your clubs repaired.**We usually play our archived episodes in a row, but unfortunately many conversations have been lost so there will be a gap. That's why this episode is part2, but couldn't find part 1. Sorry. Please check out this article about Fred's golf and podcast journey called "A Lifetime On The Air" that was published in the NCGA Magazine (Northern California Golf Association) recently!   Get more when your visit the refreshed golfsmarter.com!Introduce an Upcoming Episode: Receive free gifts for recording a show opening by clicking on "Record Your Show Open Here!" tab on the right side of golfsmarter.com. Watch Daily Video Highlights from Our Interviews: Follow @golfsmarter on Instagram, X, Facebook, TikTok, YouTube daily to see our highlights and helpful insig

GS#1007 Summary: In this episode we meet golf professional Joe Park and hear about his journey in the golf world, the importance of influential instructors, and the nuances of the golf swing. Joe emphasizes the significance of weight shift, the role of arms and hands in generating club head speed, and the balance between consistency and distance in golf. He introduces his five fundamentals of golf, which include grip, posture, backswing, downswing, and impact, and discusses how these principles can help golfers of all levels improve their game. Joe also emphasizes the importance of grip adjustments to influence ball flight, the significance of maintaining the right posture for an effective swing, and introduces the JPX drill as a method to integrate these techniques. Joe also reflects on his career highlights, including building a golf facility and nurturing young golfers. Joe does share some specifics about the golf swing that are really valuable to watch and you can see the entire episode on our YouTube cha

GS#392 July 9, 2013 Ken Doherty, Head Golf Pro at Marin Country Club discusses how your intent impacts mechanics. No matter the situation, as long as you focus on a target and are clear about your intent, then you stop thinking about mechanics which will free you to hit better shots.Please check out this article about Fred's golf and podcast journey called "A Lifetime On The Air" that was published in the NCGA Magazine (Northern California Golf Association) recently!   Get more when your visit the refreshed golfsmarter.com!Introduce an Upcoming Episode: Receive free gifts for recording a show opening by clicking on "Record Your Show Open Here!" tab on the right side of golfsmarter.com. Watch Daily Video Highlights from Our Interviews: Follow @golfsmarter on Instagram, X, Facebook, TikTok, YouTube daily to see our highlights and helpful insights from our interviews on the podcast. Post a Review: you'll receive three free gifts when you post an honest review about Golf Smarter the podcast.Fill Out a Listener Su