golf SMARTER
A caddy for your brain! The Golf Smarter podcast has been offering sage advice with a sprinkle of humor since 2005 to help you outsmart the course and maybe even your playing partners. Host Fred Greene swings into action with a guest list that reads like a who's who of golf gurus. From PGA professionals, mental coaches, to fitness experts and other experts, each week they cover everything except how to drive the beverage cart. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting to yell "Fore!", this show is your tee time for a smarter approach to more fairways and greens...
Putting is Overrated! An Introduction to the "Strokes Gained" Concept with Professor Mark Broadie
GS#432 & 433 April 15, 2014 What does it take to drop 10 strokes from your score? Traditional stats -- fairways/greens/putts per round -- don't answer these questions. Just before the release of his book, Every Shot Counts: Using the Revolutionary Strokes Gained Approach to Improve Your Golf Performance and Strategy, Professor Mark Broadie introduced us to his theory. He wasn't sure if this idea would be accepted, but today, it's critical on every level of competitive golf. This is the full 65 minute interview that were originally published as two episodes. In part2 of the conversation, we ask what about the rest of...
Fitness Myths That Will Surprise Every Golfer! featuring Chris Finn of Par4Success
GS#1016 September 9, 2025Â 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. T...
OWN YOUR GAME! 2 full episodes with Dave Stockton
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 Tourâs 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:Â Receive free gifts for recording a show opening by clicking on "Record Your Show Open Here!" tab on...
The Future of Indoor Golf: Home Simulators & TGL with Ben Helmrath
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...
More On The Golf Rules: Stroke Play with author RichardTodd
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 donât know the exact USGA wording or ruling.Â
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.com
In addition to being a lifelong golfer, Richardâs also one of the original Golf Smarter listeners from 2005.Â
Get more when y...
Utilize The Wait Time During Your Round For Increased Success with Dr. Izzy Justice
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...
The Golf Rules with author Richard E. Todd
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 l...
Revolutionizing the Golf Experience: The Power of GolfLogix with CEO Pete Charleston
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...
Golf State of Mind - Mental Game Training with David MacKenzie
GS#427 March 11, 2014 Â 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. Â *David comes to us from a suggestion by a GOLF SMARTER listener. http://GolfStateOfMind.com
Get more when your visit the refreshed golfsmarter.com!<...
Using Golf To Teach The Game of Life with Bobby Jones' Great Grandson, Robert Jones Black
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...
Winning the Battle Within - The Perfect Swing Is The One You Trust with Dr. Glenn Albaugh (RIP)
GS#420 January 21, 2014Â NFL head coach Pete Carroll was a long time friend, and former sports psychology student at University of Pacific of this weekâs guest, Dr. Glen Albaugh. On the cover of Glenâs book, âWinning the Battle Withinâ Coach Carroll is quoted as saying âGlenâs teachings helped form my coaching philosophy.â Whether youâre rooting for Pete or not, you have to admire his attitude, and his approach to competition and winning.Â
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 instruc...
Better Fitness Means Better Golf For Your Game! with GolfFit App RichardBerle
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 o...
How To Pick Your Perfect Putter with Kenny Giannini
GS#411 November19, 2013 Kenny Giannini has created putters for Arnold Palmer, Greg Norman, Mark OâMeara and âpretty much everyoneâ. 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:Â Receive free gifts for recording a show opening by clicking on "Record Your Show Ope...
Instinct Putting: The Innovative Science-Based Method to Look Where You Putt with Eric Alpenfels
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.Â
Please check out th...
Fred Gets Fitted for New Clubs
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...
Serial Golf Entrepreneur, Marc Bender, Shares Views on Best Courses in The World
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...
The Secret to Transforming Your Game with Fred Shoemaker of Extraordinary Golf
GS#402 September 17, 2013 âYouâll become a âgolferâ when learning becomes more important than the outcome of your shot.â 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! Â
Get more when your visit the refreshed golfsmarter.com!
Introduce an Upcoming Epi...
The Future of Simulator Golf To Grow The Game with Jason Chambers of Onyx Golf Academy
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...
Picking The Best Driver For Your Game - with Club Fitter Nick Manzano
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 yearâs 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.Â
Please check out this article about Fred's golf and podcast journey called "A Lifetime On The Air" that was...
5 Fundamentals of How To Make A Golf Swing with Joe Park
GS#1007 Summary:Â 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 t...
Your Intent Will Impact Ball Striking Success with Ken Doherty
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!
...
Get a Lead Edge Roll With The SpoiLER Putter: Like Putting With a Wedge with Inventor Dan Landman
GS#1006 Summary: Our guest this week is Dan Landman, the creator of SpoiLER Golf, a new putter design that emphasizes the concept of lead edge roll. We explore the innovation behind the putter, its advantages over traditional designs, and the insights gained from working with golf professionals like Joe Hallett. Dan shares the journey of developing the putter, the importance of understanding ball roll, and how SpoiLER Golf aims to position itself in a competitive market. Dan's insight into the innovative design and technology behind the SpoiLER putter, emphasizes the importance of achieving the best roll for improved...
Muscle Activation Technique Therapy for Increased Consistency & Distance with Laura Lohrmann
GSfMO#391 July 2, 2013 - NFL Quarterback Peyton Manning defied all the odds by having a successful season after recovering from neck surgery. Muscle Activation Technique (MAT) Therapy developed in Denver, CO by Greg Roskopf has been credited to his miraculous recovery. MAT Therapy has also been significant for other NFL stars like John Elway and Chris Simms. PGA Professionals and amateur golfers have also testified to being able to play more, better, and pain free even after their first session!
Laura Lohrmann is a golfer and a certified MAT Specialist who introduces us to the details of this method that âBri...
The Evolution of Golf Media: From Print to TV to Podcasts with Matt Ginella
GS#1005 Summary:Â As we always have engaging conversations with Matt Ginella, this time is no different. In this episode we explore our shared backgrounds in media, the influence of legendary broadcasters, and the evolution of sports journalism. We discuss our personal journeys, the impact of family connections on their careers, and the current landscape of podcasting and storytelling in sports media. Matt also shares his journey from passion to business in the golf media landscape. He discusses the challenges of transitioning from traditional media to a production company focused on storytelling. The conversation delves into the importance of d...
Breaking Down the Details of Vector Putting - Pt2 with John Grund
GSfMO#389 June 18, 2013- John Grund, PGA says that you CAN become a better putter, itâs a learnable behavior! John sticks around for another hour of our conversation on Vector Putting. Of course you realize that every scorecard automatically gives you 2 putts for each hole. Even if you donât drive the ball 300 yards, if you can read greens better and achieve multiple 1-putts per round, breaking 80 will regularly follow. Johnâs theory of STAG putting is covered in detail. S=speed T=Two feet & straight A=Aim G=Green Reading. This Members Only episode recaps and embellishes on âSâ, then goes int...
Unlocking the Secrets of PXGâs New Wildcat Set for Beginning Golfers with Caleb Kroloff
GS#1004 Summary: This week host Fred Greene speaks with Caleb Kroloff, Director of Metal & Woods R&D for PXG to discuss the new PXG Wildcat set, designed for beginner golfers and those with slower swing speeds. We also discuss the latest innovations in golf equipment, including hybrids, irons, and the new Blackhawk putter. Caleb explores the design philosophy behind these clubs, the importance of fitting for golfers of all skill levels, and the introduction of the Secret Weapon mini driver. The discussion highlights how these advancements aim to enhance the golfing experience for both beginners and seasoned players...
That Putt Was Supposed to Break to the Left! Vector Putting with John Grund
GS#388 June 11, 2013 Former Tour player and instructor John Grund returns to discuss Vector Putting and how his own âS.T.A.G.â putting system will enhance your skills at green reading, alignment, distance, and direction. In this first episode of two, John introduces us to the âSâ of STAG. Part 2 goes into full detail of STAG - Speed, Two Feet & Straight, Aim, Green Reading.
Visit tourstriker.com/TSGA and use the code GOLFSMARTER to get your first month of the Tour Striker GolfAcademy Online free, plus instant access to two bonus coursesâ'The Recipe for Better Golf...
Tony Manzoni & My Dad Grew Up Playing Golf Together and Started Callaway! featuring Gene Parente
GS#1003 Summary: Our guest this week is Gene Parente, inventor of the "Iron Byron" golf-ball hitting robot and contributor to Golf Digest. But that's not where our story begins! Gene shares his deep personal connection to the golf industry, particularly through the legacy of Tony Manzoni. The conversation explores Gene's father's journey in golf, the rise of Callaway Golf, and the entrepreneurial spirit that drove both Gene's father and Tony to create innovative golf products. We discuss the changing landscape of golf companies, the influence of celebrity culture on the sport, and the craftsmanship behind golf clubs, particularly...
Improve Your Swing From Impact Backwards - pt2 with John "Lag" Erickson
GSfMO#387 June 4, 2013: John âLagâ Erickson returns for a Members Only episode to break down his teaching method of improving your swing from impact backwards. We also discuss why bifurcation should be in place so that the USGA and the Tour have different rules. John feels very strongly that it all started going downhill when they allowed metal clubs instead of woods. We get into a deeper conversation about why he thinks everyone would play much better if they knew how to hit with persimmon woods. Strategy is also a very important topic when we discuss how to play bett...
The Difference Between Confidence Over Cockiness Is Subtle But Itâs Effective in Lowering Scores
GS#1002 Summary: Dr. Rick Sessinghaus returns to discuss the evolution of the mental game in golf, emphasizing its growing importance alongside technological advancements in the sport. Host Fred Greene questions Rick about how technology is being utilized to measure mental states and performance, the critical role of confidence in a player's success, and the impact of self-talk on performance. The conversation highlights the need for a strong relationship between coaches and caddies to foster a player's confidence and mental resilience. Rick delves into the mental aspects of golf, emphasizing the importance of expectation management and the challenges faced...
Todayâs Equipment Could Be Hurting Your Game with John "Lag" Erickson
GS#386 May 28, 2013: From Touring to Teaching, John âLagâ Erickson has seen golf from all sides and is concerned that the art of ball striking is disappearing. He contends that todayâs highly advanced research to make clubs more forgiving is ruining the ability to become a great ball striker. Even the greatest players of today struggle when handed persimmon clubs, nor could they compete with the pre-metal club pros. Itâs not just touch, but the sound of hitting balls has changed for the worst. Are you more interested in scoring than ball striking? Jon thinks you may be missin...
Every Round Has Its Own Psychological Amen Corner with Dr. Joe Parent of Zen Golf
GS#1,001 Summary Dr. Joe Parent, featured on episode #1 starts the next era of Golf Smarter with his 18th appearance on the show. Joe and host Fred Greene discuss the importance of mindset and confidence in golf, drawing from Dr. Parent's hugely popular series of books on the mental game, starting with 'Zen Golf'. The conversation delves into the PAR approach to golf, emphasizing preparation, action, and response to results, and concludes with the principles of honor and friendship in the game. Joe discusses the principles of Zen Golf, emphasizing resilience, mindfulness, and the mental aspects of the game...
A Golf School Like No Other From a Teacher Like No Other with Tony Manzoni (RIP)
GS#613 January 30, 2017: Tony Manzoni makes his final appearance on Golf Smarter before he passed away in October the following year. In this episode, heâs here to announce the launch of his new golf school in La Quinta, CA that never got a chance to take off. Tonyâs teamed up with two other Palm Springs area legendary coaches, Garry Hopkins and Davey Evans! Tonyâs book "The Lost Fundamental: One Simple Move, Better Golf Forever", is available on Amazon in paperback or Kindle format. His video, originally a DVD, is only available through our website.Â
Get more wh...
Jim Nantz -- An Episode Unlike Any Other with The Voice & Heartbeat of The Masters
GS#1,000!! Summary. To celebrate this milestone episode of the Golf Smarter Podcast, host Fred Greene engages with legendary CBS sports broadcaster Jim Nantz, who shares the heartfelt story behind his signature greeting, 'Hello friends,' which he dedicated to his father battling Alzheimer's. The conversation flows into Fred & Jim's experiences with the legendary John Madden, his early memories of golf, and the joy of coaching his son in the sport. They discuss the significance of the Masters Tournament, and the cinematic quality of its broadcast, providing listeners with a rich tapestry of personal anecdotes and insights into the...
Pt2 Taking Your Game to a New Level - One Club at a Time with Tony Manzoni (RIP)
GS#595 June 6, 2017: Beyond being a great golfer and teacher, Tony Manzoni had so much more to his life than the game. In this conversation we get into an interesting discussion of what itâs like to live in the shadow of a high profile father, then pursuing a career choice in the same field. Examples discussed include Steph Curry and Frank Sinatra Jr. We then continue to discuss taking your game to the next level one club at a time. The focus of the conversation is how many situations require wedges. Tonyâs book "The Lost Fundamental: One Simple Move, Bett...
How To Read Golf Courses to Maximize Your Game with PGA Master Professional Joe Hallet
GS#999 Summary In this episode of Golf Smarter, host Fred Greene welcomes back favorite guest PGA Master Professional Joe Hallett to discuss various aspects of golf, including the significance of golf course design, the role of the USGA, and the differences between amateur and professional golf. They explore how course design impacts coaching and playing strategies, the importance of adapting to different course conditions, and the nuances of using specialty wedges. The conversation is rich with insights and practical advice for golfers at all levels. Joe and Fred delve into the evolving landscape of golf, focusing on the...
Play Golf At The Next Level! One Club at a Time with Tony Manzoni (RIP)
GS#594 May 30, 2017: Tony Manzoni returns to discuss tips, insights, and strategies on how to be more consistent with each golf club in your bag. In this episode we explore improvements with your putter, 8 iron, and lob wedge. Weâve scheduled to have him come back next week to discuss more wedges, long irons, hybrids, fairway metals, and drivers. Tonyâs book "The Lost Fundamental: One Simple Move, Better Golf Forever", is available on Amazon in paperback or Kindle format. His video, originally a DVD, is only available through our website.Â
Get more when your visit the refreshed go...
Understanding the Bottom of the Swing is Key to Better Shots with Mr. Tour Striker Martin Chuck
GS#998 Summary This week Martin Chuck reconnects with Golf Smarter after several years, reflecting on our shared passion for golf and the emotional experiences tied to the game. We discuss the recent Masters tournament, highlighting the excitement and drama of the event, particularly in the absence of Tiger Woods. Martin shares memorable encounters with Rory McIlroy, emphasizing Rory's authenticity and approachability. The conversation shifts to teaching golf, where Martin provides insights from his extensive experience, focusing on the importance of routine and the mental aspects of the game. We explore the challenges golfers face, the significance of understanding...
If Tiger Asked Tony Manzoni for Help, What Would He Say?
GS#457 October 7, 2014: Tony Manzoni, author of The Lost Fundamental, discusses what's ailing Tiger and what advice he'd give if Tiger called. Tonyâs book "The Lost Fundamental: One Simple Move, Better Golf Forever", is available on Amazon in paperback or Kindle format. His video, originally a DVD, is only available through our website.Â
Please check out our new website at golfsmarter.com! Click here to find the most comprehensive information about Tony ever assembled. While there, you'll receive three free gifts when you post an honest review about Golf Smarter the podcast. You can also get fre...
Amateur Golf is a Harder Game Than The Pros Play! featuring Terry "The Wedge Guy" Koehler
GS#997 Summary Terry "The Wedge Guy" Koehler, founder of Edison Wedges returns discuss the evolution of golf equipment, particularly focusing on wedge design and the challenges faced by recreational golfers. We explore the importance of short game skills, the concept of handicaps, and the relevance of golf rules for amateur players. The conversation emphasizes the need for innovation in golf equipment to cater to the average golfer's needs and the idea of playing for enjoyment rather than strict adherence to rules. In this engaging conversation, Terry digs deep into the complexities of golf handicaps, the absurdities...
