The Scratch Golfer's Mindset Podcast

High achievers are rarely "in balance"—and that's not a problem when your intensity is calibrated.  In this conversation, Dr. Alison Curdt—PGA Master Professional, LPGA Master Professional, and Doctor of Psychology—opens up about the sacrifices behind elite performance, how to reframe "pressure," and why curiosity is the antidote to perfectionism, fear of failure, and self-criticism.  We dig into process vs. performance vs. outcome goals, separating identity from results, and the importance of strategic rest so your practice actually sticks. Dr. Curdt also shares the pivotal moment that reshaped her life and work, how to coach an athlete at "rock bottom," and practical scripts you can use on the course this weekend. In this episode, you'll learn: Why "pressure" is a perception problem—and how to reframe it fast The difference between outcome, performance, and process goals (and which one drives wins) How to detach self-worth from scorecards, sales, and rankings The simple language shifts ("have to" → "get to") that unlock better golf How to use curiosity to replace judgment and perfectionism What "calibrated intensity" looks like (and why rest multiplies growth) Practical ways to coach yourself out of a slump—on the range or at work Whether you're chasing a lower handicap or scaling a business, this is a masterclass in durable confidence, emotional regulation, and performance psychology—the exact mindset training that turns effort into results. Get your pencils ready and start listening.  P.S. Curious to learn more about the results my clients are experiencing and what they say about working with me? Read more here. More About Dr. Alison Curdt Dr. Alison Curdt is a dual PGA Master & LPGA Master Professional. She has over 35 years of background in golf competition and competed in 8 LPGA Tour majors. Owner of "Alison Curdt Golf" and Director of Instruction at Wood Ranch Golf Club in Los Angeles, CA, she has earned countless teaching & professional awards such as the 2025 Tom Addiss II Professional Development Award, 2019 SoCal PGA Golf Professional of the Year, 2018 SCPGA Clubfitter of the Year, 4-time LPGA Western Section Teacher of the Year, 2016 SCPGA Teacher of the Year, and 2015 LPGA T&CP National Teacher of the Year. She was selected as an LPGA Top 50 Teacher 4 times and was inducted into the SoCal PGA Teaching Hall of Fame. Dr. Curdt has been featured in over a dozen separate segments on the Golf Channel and Golf Digest selected her three times as one of America's Best Young Teachers. She is currently on the Golf Digest Best in State list (CA) and has been honored as Top 50 Teacher in America.  Dr. Curdt is also a clinical sport psychotherapist utilizing EMDR & Brainspotting to help athletes achieve peak performance and overcome athletic traumas. She served as the LPGA T&CP National Vice-President and is currently the first female president of the Southern California PGA.  Her book, The Golf Performance Code: Unlocking secrets to mind, body, and nutrition was published in 2025. Connect with Alison Instagram YouTube Play to Your Potential On (and Off) the Course Schedule a Mindset Coaching Discovery Call Subscribe to the More Pars than Bogeys Newsletter Download my "Play Your Best Round" free hypnosis audio recording. High-Performance Hypnotherapy and Mindset Coaching Paul Salter - known as The Golf Hypnotherapist - is a High-Performance Hypnotherapist and Mindset Coach who leverages hypnosis and powerful subconscious reprogramming techniques to help golfers of all ages and skill levels overcome the mental hazards of their minds so they can shoot lower scores and play to their potential. He has over 16 years of coaching experience working with high performers in various industries, helping them get unstuck, out of their own way, and unlock their full potential. Click here to learn more about how high-performance hypnotherapy and mindset coaching can help you get out of your own way and play to your potential on (and off) the course.  Instagram: @thegolfhypnotherapist  Twitter: @parsoverbogeys Key Takeaways: Pressure is self-created. It's a byproduct of expectations and outcome fixation; reframe it as a challenge and return to controllables. Process > performance > outcome. Track performance stats, but win the day by executing process goals (breath, target, routine, commitment). Curiosity beats judgment. Asking "What's really happening?" dissolves shame, perfectionism, and fear—opening access to better decisions and motor memory. Calibrated intensity. Grind isn't mindless hours; it's intentional focus paired with recovery, so skills encode and become automatic. Detach identity from results. You are not your score or sales number; evaluate inputs and execution quality, not just outcomes. Reframe your language. "I have to" → "I get to," "I'm busy" → "I'm in demand"—word choice shifts physiology and performance. Coach with empathy first. Before offering fixes, make athletes feel seen; then co-create reframes and experiments they can own. Key Quotes: "Pressure doesn't exist—outside of physics. We create it with expectations." "Achievement can feel like a drug—use it to fuel you, not break you." "You're not what you produce. You are enough—regardless of the number." "Win with process goals; they ladder up to performance—and then outcomes." "Curiosity is the antidote to so many psychological 'diseases.'" "If you keep grinding the stone, it turns to nothing. Rest builds growth." "Tell yourself: You have everything you need to succeed. Then access it." Time Stamps: 00:00 The Journey of Achievement and Sacrifice 04:42 Rebirth from Trauma: A Turning Point 06:46 Navigating Rock Bottom: Questions for Growth 09:01 Building Resilience: Coaching Through Adversity 12:05 Understanding Pressure: A Psychological Perspective 20:06 The Grind: Positive vs. Negative Connotations 22:58 The Importance of Rest and Recovery 25:34 Detaching Identity from Performance 29:01 Understanding Enoughness and Self-Worth 32:20 Effective Communication and Expectation Management 35:52 Overcoming Perfectionism and Embracing Variability 38:58 Empowering Beliefs for Success

What if the people who trigger you the most—the mother-in-law who feels controlling, the "lazy" kids, the blow-up guy in your Saturday foursome—aren't actually the problem? You are (gulp). What if they're mirrors? In this episode of The Scratch Golfer's Mindset Podcast, I dive into the uncomfortable truth that the traits you judge, resent, or react to in others very often reflect the parts of you that you deny, repress, or flat-out hate.  You'll hear raw stories from my own life and from clients who realized that the selfishness, complacency, or lack of drive they saw in others… was alive and well inside themselves. And when they finally owned those parts instead of fighting them, everything changed: more peace, more energy, more honesty, and better golf. In this episode, you'll learn: How "triggers" on the golf course, at home, and at work are actually mirrors reflecting disowned parts of you. Why owning traits like "selfish," "controlling," or "lazy" can free you instead of condemn you. The basics of Parts Theory and how seeing emotions as "parts" reduces their intensity and control over you. How repressing parts of yourself quietly drains your energy and keeps you stuck in the same patterns on and off the course. A powerful reframe of selfishness into being selflessly selfish—and how that makes you a better golfer, parent, and leader. How core beliefs like "I'll never get better" sabotage your performance, no matter how hard you work. A journaling question you can use today to turn your biggest emotional triggers into your most powerful teachers. If you're willing to be radically honest with yourself, this episode can help you reclaim the energy you've been spending running from your own reflection—and redirect it into becoming the golfer, parent, partner, and leader you know you're capable of being. Get your pencils ready and start listening.  P.S. Curious to learn more about the results my clients are experiencing and what they say about working with me? Read more here. Play to Your Potential On (and Off) the Course Schedule a Mindset Coaching Discovery Call Subscribe to the More Pars than Bogeys Newsletter Download my "Play Your Best Round" free hypnosis audio recording. High-Performance Hypnotherapy and Mindset Coaching Paul Salter - known as The Golf Hypnotherapist - is a High-Performance Hypnotherapist and Mindset Coach who leverages hypnosis and powerful subconscious reprogramming techniques to help golfers of all ages and skill levels overcome the mental hazards of their minds so they can shoot lower scores and play to their potential. He has over 16 years of coaching experience working with high performers in various industries, helping them get unstuck, out of their own way, and unlock their full potential. Click here to learn more about how high-performance hypnotherapy and mindset coaching can help you get out of your own way and play to your potential on (and off) the course.  Instagram: @thegolfhypnotherapist Key Takeaways: Everyone in your life is a mirror. The behaviors you judge or react to most strongly in others—anger, laziness, selfishness, manipulation—are often traits that exist in you, especially the parts you don't want to see. You are made of many "parts," not one fixed identity. There's a part of you that's confident, a part that's fearful, a part that's lazy, a part that's driven. Seeing these as "parts" creates healthy distance so you're not completely fused with any one state. What you resist, persists. The harder you fight against a trait—"I'm not selfish, I'm not controlling, I'm not lazy"—the more power it quietly holds over your thoughts, emotions, and decisions. Triggers are invitations, not inconveniences. The next time someone pisses you off, embarrasses you, or makes your blood boil, you have a choice: react and blame… or pause and ask, "What part of me is this showing me?" That's where the real growth begins. Key Quotes: "What triggers you has the opportunity to teach you—if you're willing to look in the mirror instead of out the window." "You're not just one thing all the time; you're a collection of parts—and your work is to become whole, not perfect." "The traits you hate in others are often the traits you refuse to admit exist in you." "What you resist persists. The more you fight 'I'm not selfish,' the more that part quietly runs the show." "Being selflessly selfish means you put yourself first so you can show up better for everyone else in your life." "Golf is a mirror of your personal development—and the people in your life are mirrors of the parts of you that you've tried to bury." "When you accept every part of you, you stop wasting energy hiding and start using that energy to become the best version of you." Time Stamps: 00:00: Understanding Triggers and Self-Reflection 02:51: The Holographic Universe and Parts Theory 05:45: Mirrors in Relationships: Recognizing Ourselves in Others 10:36: The Concept of Selfishness: A New Perspective 15:51: Triggers as Teachers: Learning from Emotional Responses 22:30: Embracing Wholeness: The Path to Authenticity

In this episode of The Scratch Golfer's Mindset Podcast, I sit down with Texas Golf Hall of Famer and author, Mike Booker, to unpack the mental blueprint that separates a tournament golfer from a golfer who plays tournaments.  With decades of competitive success and entrepreneurial achievement, Mike shares timeless lessons on emotional steadiness, self-talk, reflection, and gratitude that have fueled his longevity both on and off the course. You'll learn how to master your self-talk, set powerful process-based goals, and build the emotional resilience needed to perform under pressure. Mike and I dive deep into how perspective, preparation, and honesty form the foundation of lasting success—and why gratitude might be the most underrated competitive advantage in golf and life. In this episode, you'll learn: How to become your own best friend and master self-talk. The difference between a tournament golfer and a golfer who plays tournaments. How to manage results-oriented thinking under pressure. The role of process, pre-shot routines, and breathing in performance. Why honesty and reflection are key to consistent improvement. How gratitude and perspective build mental resilience. The mindset needed to win in golf, business, and life. If you're serious about raising your level of play in this upcoming season of tournaments, this is the conversation you want to listen to multiple times… Get your pencils ready and start listening.  P.P.S. Curious to learn more about the results my clients are experiencing and what they say about working with me? Read more here. More About Mike Booker Mike Booker is a Texas Golf Hall of Fame inductee, former University of Houston NCAA National Champion, and author of The Tournament Golfer's Playbook. A lifelong competitor who has won championships across multiple decades, Mike combines lessons learned from elite tournament golf and a 40-year career as a successful entrepreneur and financial advisor.  His work teaches golfers how to think, prepare, and perform like true tournament golfers—focusing on self-talk, process, perspective, and gratitude both on and off the course. Purchase The Tournament Golfer's Playbook here. Inducted into the Texas Golf Hall of Fame (2019), University of Houston Hall of Honor (2023) WCJC Athletic Hall of Fame (2023) A record four-time Texas Golf Association Player of the Year (2012, 2014, 2015, and 2022, Senior) Winner of a record 14 Texas Golf Association events, including Senior, Mid Am and Mid Am Match Play Playing Member, U. of Houston NCAA National Championship team (1977) Selected Associated Press NCAA All-American Team, U. of Houston (1977) Two-time U.S. National Club Champion (2007 and 2008, Senior) Play to Your Potential On (and Off) the Course Schedule a Mindset Coaching Discovery Call Subscribe to the More Pars than Bogeys Newsletter Download my "Play Your Best Round" free hypnosis audio recording. High-Performance Hypnotherapy and Mindset Coaching Paul Salter - known as The Golf Hypnotherapist - is a High-Performance Hypnotherapist and Mindset Coach who leverages hypnosis and powerful subconscious reprogramming techniques to help golfers of all ages and skill levels overcome the mental hazards of their minds so they can shoot lower scores and play to their potential. He has over 16 years of coaching experience working with high performers in various industries, helping them get unstuck, out of their own way, and unlock their full potential. Click here to learn more about how high-performance hypnotherapy and mindset coaching can help you get out of your own way and play to your potential on (and off) the course.  Instagram: @thegolfhypnotherapist  Twitter: @parsoverbogeys Key Takeaways: Longevity in golf—and life—comes from perspective, self-compassion, and gratitude. Be your own best friend. The relationship you have with yourself defines performance. Talk to yourself like someone you care about: first person, not third person. Focus on intermediate goals to avoid burnout and stay emotionally steady. Failure is a teacher, not a threat—learn, adapt, and build resilience. Honesty is the foundation of growth; surround yourself with people who tell you the truth. Process beats pressure: control what you can, trust what you've practiced. Breathing and a consistent pre-shot routine are your anchors under stress. Tournament golfers don't make excuses—they take ownership and stay adaptable. Gratitude keeps you grounded. "If you don't have gratitude, you're not paying attention." Key Quotes: "It's not what you say to everyone else—it's what you whisper to yourself. "The longest relationship you'll ever have is with yourself. Be your own best friend." "Most success stories are built on overwhelming amounts of failure." "Winning is affirmation—but it's short-lived. The real victory is showing up again tomorrow." "Don't worry about it. Nobody really cares that much."  "Tournament golfers don't believe in bad breaks—they just play the next shot." Time Stamps: 00:00 The Longevity of Success in Golf 01:55 The Power of Self-Talk 05:40 Setting Intermediate Goals 10:07 Reflection and Evaluation 12:52 The Meaning of Winning 15:10 Sacrifice and Commitment 17:17 The Secret to Lasting Success 20:54 Performing Under Pressure 29:09 The Mindset of a Tournament Golfer 30:58 The Journey to Writing a Golf Book 32:20 Learning from Failure and Responsibility 34:19 The Identity of a Tournament Golfer 36:08 Common Mental Leaks in Golf 39:18 Translating Golf Lessons to Business 43:34 Embracing Failure and Learning 49:27 Perspective and the Spotlight Effect

Greatness comes with a price—but what if that price isn't punishment, but preparation?  In this episode, I reframe the "tax" of greatness as an investment in your future self, showing how every setback, rejection, and lonely morning is actually a deposit into the account of discipline, patience, and faith that compounds over time. I discuss how standing out invites resistance—from critics, loved ones, and even yourself—and why that's proof you're on the right path.  In this episode, you'll learn: How to reframe "suffering" as harnessing your inner strength. Why greatness requires isolation—and how to find peace in it. The crabs in the bucket analogy and how to avoid being pulled down. How to manage criticism and stay confident when others doubt you. The difference between emotional fuel and sustainable focus. Why setbacks are simply the market dips of your personal growth. How to make daily "deposits" into the bank of discipline and belief. If you've ever felt misunderstood, lonely, or doubted while chasing your goals—whether in golf, business, or life—this episode will help you reconnect with your purpose, stay the course, and trust that your effort will pay dividends when the time is right. Get your pencils ready and start listening.  P.S. Curious to learn more about the results my clients are experiencing and what they say about working with me? Read more here. Play to Your Potential On (and Off) the Course Schedule a Mindset Coaching Discovery Call Subscribe to the More Pars than Bogeys Newsletter Download my "Play Your Best Round" free hypnosis audio recording. High-Performance Hypnotherapy and Mindset Coaching Paul Salter - known as The Golf Hypnotherapist - is a High-Performance Hypnotherapist and Mindset Coach who leverages hypnosis and powerful subconscious reprogramming techniques to help golfers of all ages and skill levels overcome the mental hazards of their minds so they can shoot lower scores and play to their potential. He has over 16 years of coaching experience working with high performers in various industries, helping them get unstuck, out of their own way, and unlock their full potential. Click here to learn more about how high-performance hypnotherapy and mindset coaching can help you get out of your own way and play to your potential on (and off) the course.  Instagram: @thegolfhypnotherapist Key Takeaways: The price of greatness isn't a penalty — it's an investment plan for your future self that pays exponential returns. Loneliness and isolation aren't setbacks; they're sacred opportunities to realign with your values and purpose. Judgment from others reflects their stagnation, not your misdirection. Stay focused on your path, not their opinions. Replace the word suffering with harnessing — each moment of adversity strengthens resilience, focus, and faith. While most people panic during life's "market dips," the great ones double down, trusting time, consistency, and themselves. Key Quotes: "Every bit of pain, doubt, persistence, and every morning you don't feel like doing jack shit — that's interest your future self will cash in as peace, freedom, and fulfillment." "The higher you climb, the thinner the air — and fewer people can breathe at that altitude. Most turn back, not because the view isn't worth it, but because they never conditioned themselves to handle the elevation." "The criticism, judgment, and resentment you face aren't punishments — they're proof you're leaving the bucket while everyone else is still clinging to comfort." "Every time you suffer through rejection, failure, or frustration, you're not breaking down — you're harnessing the strength, patience, and faith required to rise." "When the pressure hits, the critics get loud, and your beliefs start to waver — remember, you're not being punished. You're being prepared." Time Stamps: 00:00: The Cost of Greatness 02:41: Reframing Suffering as Harnessing 05:26: The Isolation of Standing Out 08:14: The Crabs in the Bucket Analogy 10:52: Navigating Loneliness and Misunderstanding 14:47: Embracing Fear and Uncertainty 18:25: The Power of Emotional Energy 20:50: Investing in Your Future Self 23:32: The Journey of Self-Discovery

In this powerful episode of The Scratch Golfer's Mindset Podcast, I sit down with former MMA coach and mindset expert, Patrick Sebastien, to explore the art of mental toughness — both inside and outside the ropes.  Drawing from years in the fight world and his work with elite golfers, Patrick unpacks how adversity, flow states, and physical intensity combine to build unshakable confidence and resilience on the golf course. You'll learn how to intentionally seek and use adversity to your advantage, train like an athlete to improve emotional control under pressure, and create your own blueprint for peak performance. Patrick and I dive deep into visualization, breathwork, and post-round reflection as essential tools to develop composure, focus, and self-belief when the stakes are high. In this episode, you'll learn: How to reframe adversity as opportunity and bounce back fast after a blow-up hole (or business setback). Why flow states require struggle first, and how to use challenge to trigger "the zone." A simple gym-to-course formula: create controlled physical stress, then regulate it with breath so pressure feels familiar on the tee. The breath training + visualization sequence Patrick uses pre-round to build calm, focus, and confidence. How to design on-course pressure reps (mini challenges) so tournaments feel like just another rep. How an identity shift ("I am an athlete") unlocks consistency, intensity, and faster scoring gains. The expect/accept model: expect greatness, accept imperfection, and re-engage on the next shot. Ways to calibrate your arousal level (not too calm, not too hyped) to hit your personal performance sweet spot. Whether you're chasing a club championship or your next business milestone, this episode will help you expect greatness — and perform like it. Get your pencils ready and start listening.  P.S. Curious to learn more about the results my clients are experiencing and what they say about working with me? Read more here. More About Patrick Sebastien Patrick Sebastien is a performance coach who helps golfers elevate their game through a holistic approach that blends physical conditioning, mental training, and strategic mastery. With over 20 years of experience teaching Muay Thai and MMA, 15 years as a personal trainer specializing in functional fitness, and 10 years guiding breath training and meditation, Patrick brings a unique perspective to golf performance optimization. He began coaching in golf in 2022 after working with a Korn Ferry Tour player as a mental coach, and has since trained professionals, college athletes, and elite junior golfers, using his unique approach to physical and mental training for golf. Patrick specializes in preparing players to excel on and off the course by integrating strength, mobility, focus, and strategic awareness.  Connect with Patrick: Website Instagram YouTube Play to Your Potential On (and Off) the Course Schedule a Mindset Coaching Discovery Call Subscribe to the More Pars than Bogeys Newsletter Download my "Play Your Best Round" free hypnosis audio recording. High-Performance Hypnotherapy and Mindset Coaching Paul Salter - known as The Golf Hypnotherapist - is a High-Performance Hypnotherapist and Mindset Coach who leverages hypnosis and powerful subconscious reprogramming techniques to help golfers of all ages and skill levels overcome the mental hazards of their minds so they can shoot lower scores and play to their potential. He has over 16 years of coaching experience working with high performers in various industries, helping them get unstuck, out of their own way, and unlock their full potential. Click here to learn more about how high-performance hypnotherapy and mindset coaching can help you get out of your own way and play to your potential on (and off) the course.  Instagram: @thegolfhypnotherapist  Twitter: @parsoverbogeys Key Takeaways: Perseverance is the foundation of bounce-back ability. Adversity creates flow; no struggle, no growth. Great players train adversity before they face it. Physical stress builds emotional control. Fitness isn't optional—it's a performance multiplier. Breathwork bridges chaos and composure. Journaling post-round accelerates learning and awareness. You can't control results—but you can always control your process. Expect greatness, but accept imperfection. Visualization isn't fantasy—it's mental reps for success. Meditation sharpens calm, control, and clarity under pressure. True athletes embrace discomfort and keep expanding their limits. A champion's mindset is forged in the gym before it's displayed on the course. Key Quotes: Adversity is a wake-up call. It's fuel, not failure. Flow only exists because of struggle. Train hard, fight easy. The harder your training, the easier your performance. Physical stress and mental stress present the same way. Learn to master one, and you master both. If you never fail, you're probably not trying hard enough. Expect greatness while accepting less than greatness. The further I went in martial arts, the more peaceful I became. You can't control what the course throws at you, but you can control how you respond. Golfers don't need to become bodybuilders—they need to become athletes. If you don't expect greatness, how will you ever achieve it? The champion's mindset is earned in the gym before it's displayed on the course. Time Stamps: 00:00 The Power of Perseverance 02:40 Embracing Adversity as Opportunity 05:49 Creating Adversity for Growth 08:43 The Role of Technology in Performance 11:40 Post-Round Reflections and Learning 14:33 The Importance of Identity in Success 17:43 Lessons from Competitive Fighting 20:26 Bouncing Back from Setbacks 23:29 Training with Intensity for Mental Edge 26:21 The Importance of Resistance Training 27:56 Pushing Through Limits and Mental Barriers 32:00 Transforming Golfers into Athletes 35:37 The Role of Meditation and Breath Training 41:02 Peak Performance Blueprint for Athletes 46:24 Expecting Greatness in Golf and Life

Every winter, it happens… Your clubs collect dust, your swing feels distant, and that quiet voice creeps in: "What if I lose everything I worked for this season?" But what most golfers lose in the off-season isn't their mechanics — it's their confidence. You stop swinging.  You stop visualizing.  You stop feeling like a golfer.  And by the time spring rolls around, you're not just rusty — you're hesitant, uncertain, and disconnected from the player you were just a few months ago. Here's the truth: confidence isn't built under sunshine and scorecards — it's built in the dark. It's built in the quiet reps no one sees, the small acts of discipline that nobody celebrates. This winter, you have a choice: You can coast, like every other golfer who slides backward once the weather turns… or you can treat these months like Separation Season — your chance to build confidence, sharpen your edge, and step into spring already playing the best golf of your life. In this episode, you'll learn: Why most golfers lose confidence, not mechanics, in the off-season — and how to protect it. The four mental traps that create regression and how to beat each one. How to set a minimum effective dose for practice, fitness, and mindset work. The identity shift needed to think, train, and prepare like a golfer year-round. And how to design an off-season plan that builds momentum now — so you never have to "find your swing" again. If you're ready to break the typical golf season pattern of two steps forward, three steps back, and breakthrough to play to your potential in 2026, this episode is for you. Get your pencils ready and start listening.  P.S. Curious to learn more about the results my clients are experiencing and what they say about working with me? Read more here. Play to Your Potential On (and Off) the Course Schedule a Mindset Coaching Discovery Call Subscribe to the More Pars than Bogeys Newsletter Download my "Play Your Best Round" free hypnosis audio recording. High-Performance Hypnotherapy and Mindset Coaching Paul Salter - known as The Golf Hypnotherapist - is a High-Performance Hypnotherapist and Mindset Coach who leverages hypnosis and powerful subconscious reprogramming techniques to help golfers of all ages and skill levels overcome the mental hazards of their minds so they can shoot lower scores and play to their potential. He has over 16 years of coaching experience working with high performers in various industries, helping them get unstuck, out of their own way, and unlock their full potential. Click here to learn more about how high-performance hypnotherapy and mindset coaching can help you get out of your own way and play to your potential on (and off) the course.  Instagram: @thegolfhypnotherapist Key Takeaways: Confidence decays first. Touch a club and your routine multiple times per week to keep the "golfer" identity alive. Beat all-or-nothing with a minimum-effective-dose: short, repeatable sessions > heroic plans you won't sustain. Comfort creep is costly. Indulgence is fine; defaulting to comfort isn't. Keep micro-standards through the holidays. Excuses in a suit are still excuses. "I'll wait for better conditions" trains retreat, not resilience. Accountability accelerates. Coach, community, or check-ins — add a scoreboard and you'll show up. Lift the floor. Off-season is perfect for strength, mobility, and power so your worst days get better. Calendar = commitment. If it isn't blocked, it isn't real. Audit, schedule, and protect your reps. Key Quotes: "Confidence isn't built in season — it's built in the dark." "Most golfers don't lose ground from weather; they lose it from mental drift." "All-or-nothing is perfectionism dressed up as logic." "Comfort is a habit. So is consistency. Choose which one you'll practice." "Excuses preserve the ego but poison momentum." "Raise the floor this winter — strength and identity travel." "If it's not on your calendar, it's not a priority. It's a wish." Time Stamps: 00:00: The real off-season loss: confidence, not mechanics 04:10: "Separation Season" reframe and episode roadmap 10:37: The Thermostat Effect: identity sets your handicap 21:11: All-or-nothing thinking + Minimum-Effective-Dose fix 29:36: Five clarity questions & building your winter plan

In this episode of The Scratch Golfer's Mindset Podcast, I sit down with my mentor, world-renowned mindset and performance coach, Elliot Roe. Together, we engage in a power discussion to unpack what truly separates high performers from the rest—how to release subconscious resistance, redefine balance, and access peak states on demand. Elliot reveals why detachment from results is a prerequisite for sustained success, how subconscious childhood patterns quietly sabotage progress, and the science behind hypnosis as a tool for lasting transformation. He also dives into the relationship between identity, fear, and indecision—and how understanding these elements can elevate your performance on the course, in business, and in life. In this episode, you'll learn: How to balance ambition and detachment to perform your best under pressure. Why "invisible resistance" keeps you stuck—and how to finally remove it. The neuroscience of hypnosis and how it reprograms limiting beliefs. How identity and subconscious stories shape performance and self-worth. A simple exercise to reveal the habits separating you from elite performers. Why fear of success and fear of failure are two sides of the same coin. How presence—not anger or intensity—fuels true peak performance. Whether you're chasing your next big win, breaking 80, or scaling your company, this conversation offers tactical frameworks and mindset shifts to help you remove the invisible brakes and unlock your true potential. Get your pencils ready and start listening.  P.P.S. Curious to learn more about the results my clients are experiencing and what they say about working with me? Read more here. More About Elliot Roe Elliot Roe is a leading expert in Mindset Optimization for High Performers and is the world's #1 Mindset Coach for poker players. His poker clients have won over $250,000,000 and nearly every major tournament title, including the World Series of Poker Main Event. Elliot's clientele also includes Olympic medalists, UFC Champions, Hollywood Actors, Business executives, and Wall Street traders.  His unique mindset coaching system leverages the power of hypnotherapy to eliminate fears and breakthrough mental roadblocks, allowing you to operate in a state of peak performance every day. Connect with Elliot: Mindset and Perofrmance Coaching On Twitter @elliotroe1 Download the Primed Mind App Play to Your Potential On (and Off) the Course Schedule a Mindset Coaching Discovery Call Subscribe to the More Pars than Bogeys Newsletter Download my "Play Your Best Round" free hypnosis audio recording. High-Performance Hypnotherapy and Mindset Coaching Paul Salter - known as The Golf Hypnotherapist - is a High-Performance Hypnotherapist and Mindset Coach who leverages hypnosis and powerful subconscious reprogramming techniques to help golfers of all ages and skill levels overcome the mental hazards of their minds so they can shoot lower scores and play to their potential. He has over 16 years of coaching experience working with high performers in various industries, helping them get unstuck, out of their own way, and unlock their full potential. Click here to learn more about how high-performance hypnotherapy and mindset coaching can help you get out of your own way and play to your potential on (and off) the course.  Instagram: @thegolfhypnotherapist  Twitter: @parsoverbogeys Key Takeaways: Detachment drives performance: Balance isn't "soft"—it reduces emotional over-attachment to outcomes so you can execute under pressure. Build a non-variance win: Add a weekly pursuit (gym, BJJ, etc.) with incremental progress so your self-worth isn't hostage to poker/golf/markets. Calendar = truth: Audit your week. If sleep, family, training, and mindset work aren't scheduled, your goals are fantasy. Clear the landmines first: Use hypnosis/subconscious work to neutralize old emotional triggers so you're not "driving with the brakes on." Identity follows behavior: List what the best in your field do, mark what you're avoiding, and face those reps—belief grows after action. Indecision is ego-protection: Not deciding preserves the story "I'd win if I tried." Decide, act, and let data reshape the story. Presence beats anger: Elite performance (golf, trading, UFC, business) comes from calm focus and recovery skills—not rage or intensity. Key Quotes: "If you know what to do and can't bring yourself to do it, you don't need a strategy coach—you need a mindset coach." "Balance isn't a weakness. It's a performance enhancer." "You can't separate who you are off the course from who shows up on the course." "Indecision is ego protection—it lets you believe you'd succeed if you tried." "Fear of failure and fear of success both whisper the same lie: I'm not enough." "Our work as coaches is to file down the edges of the cube until it rolls smoothly—until you're in flow." "You are not your issues. They're learned patterns—and they can be unlearned." Time Stamps: 00:00 The Importance of Balance for High Performers 07:01 Finding Clarity in Life Balance 16:08 Overcoming Invisible Barriers to Success 20:15 Understanding Hypnosis and Its Impact on Performance 23:43 Overcoming Invisible Resistance 26:29 Identifying Decision Points for Success 29:48 The Fear of Failure vs. Fear of Success 34:57 Smoothing the Edges: High Performance Coaching 38:05 The Continuous Pursuit of Evolution 41:49 Being vs. Doing: The Essence of Performance 45:10 The Role of Anger in High Performance

I showed up to my first member-guest at Tampa Palms sick, under-prepared, and running on caffeine, ibuprofen, and grit—and still found a way to win our flight and taste the shootout.  In this raw recap, I walk you through the chaos (slow play, no warm-up, rules hiccups), the lows (bunker disasters), and the highs (clutch sand save on the final hole). You'll hear exactly how I managed energy, self-talk, and strategy when my plan went to zero—and how those same mindset levers translate to your next round and your business. In this episode, you'll learn: How to manage expectations and energy when your prep falls apart The mindset shift that helped me play calm golf while feeling physically awful How to simplify focus and stay composed through delays, chaos, and pressure What poor communication (and one painful scoring mistake) taught me about teamwork The mental difference between avoiding a weakness and training through it Why gratitude is the fastest way to reset mid-round and regain confidence How emotional awareness off the course—like parenting guilt or stress—affects your game and composure on it Buckle up for an exciting, relatable ride navigating plenty of highs and lows during an epic Member-Guest weekend.  Get your pencils ready and start listening.  P.S. Curious to learn more about the results my clients are experiencing and what they say about working with me? Read more here. Play to Your Potential On (and Off) the Course Schedule a Mindset Coaching Discovery Call Subscribe to the More Pars than Bogeys Newsletter Download my "Play Your Best Round" free hypnosis audio recording. High-Performance Hypnotherapy and Mindset Coaching Paul Salter - known as The Golf Hypnotherapist - is a High-Performance Hypnotherapist and Mindset Coach who leverages hypnosis and powerful subconscious reprogramming techniques to help golfers of all ages and skill levels overcome the mental hazards of their minds so they can shoot lower scores and play to their potential. He has over 16 years of coaching experience working with high performers in various industries, helping them get unstuck, out of their own way, and unlock their full potential. Click here to learn more about how high-performance hypnotherapy and mindset coaching can help you get out of your own way and play to your potential on (and off) the course.  Instagram: @thegolfhypnotherapist Key Takeaways: Control the controllables, shrink the focus. Limited energy forced me to narrow attention to a few keys—hydration, tempo, target. Gratitude regulates performance. A 60-second gratitude reset shifted me from frustration to neutral and sparked a strong finish. Communication is strategy. Score-checking and slowing down on tap-ins would've saved a hole; over-communicate under stress. Bunker avoidance isn't a plan. Weakness avoidance became a liability; targeted reps + one committed technique are mandatory. Course management beats ego. Long irons and conservative lines kept us in play and in matches—even without driver. Blissful boredom wins. Treat each shot as routine; remove drama to keep execution steady through delays and chaos. Team > hero shot. Celebrate partners' contributions as much as your clutch moments; it strengthens trust when it matters. Key Quotes: "I had zero energy—so I spent it on the only three things that moved the needle." "Gratitude was my reset button; it pulled me from anger back to neutral." "Avoiding a weakness is not a strategy—it's a ticking time bomb." "When the day goes sideways, shrink the goal to one shot and one breath." "Over-communicate scores under pressure; assumptions are expensive." "Blissful boredom is a superpower—routine drains the drama out of big moments." "Winning our flight wasn't one swing; it was two teammates honoring their roles." Time Stamps: 00:00: The Build-Up to the Member Guest Event 02:36: Experiencing the Member Guest Event 05:27: Navigating Challenges and Expectations 08:35: Reflections on Performance and Resilience 11:16: The Final Matches and Lessons Learned 13:57: The Shootout Experience and Takeaways

What if your next low round isn't hiding in a swing tip—but in boring, repeatable fundamentals?  In this conversation, I'm joined by my golf coach, Director of Golf at Tampa Bay Country Club, Kevin Kenny. Kevin has won a PGA chapter or section event in five different decades. And, after shoulder surgery and seven months off, Kevin returned and shot 73—powered by meticulous pre-shot routines, alignment, posture, and belief.  We dig into mental clutter vs. clarity, how to "watch the ball" instead of the monitor, why short game is the ultimate pressure valve, and how to compete with conviction decade after decade. You'll leave with a simple, durable framework to practice all winter, manage match play smarter, and build unconditional confidence on command. In this episode, you'll learn: The five fundamentals Kevin hammers (aim, grip, posture, turn back, turn through). A simple "find the root cause" process after any miss. The target-first focus shift that cleans up mental clutter fast. Why short-game mastery lowers scores and frees up your iron play. How to practice in the off-season without hitting a ball. Smarter match-play tactics (pars win, don't beat yourself). The mindset behind sustained winning across your 20s–60s. Get your pencils ready and start listening.  P.P.S. Curious to learn more about the results my clients are experiencing and what they say about working with me? Read more here. More About Kevin Kenny Affectionately known as "KK," Kevin is the longtime Head Golf Professional at Tampa Palms Golf and Country Club. A staple in the Tampa golf community for more than two decades, KK has built a reputation for his deep technical knowledge, approachable coaching style, and commitment to helping players of all levels fall in love with the game. Under his leadership, Tampa Palms has become one of the premier golf experiences in the region—known not just for the course itself, but for the culture of respect, camaraderie, and continuous improvement he's cultivated among members and staff alike. Whether he's mentoring his team, helping juniors develop sound fundamentals, or guiding seasoned players through course management and mindset work, KK's influence extends far beyond swing mechanics. His passion for the game, attention to detail, and focus on growth make him one of the most respected and beloved figures in Florida golf. Play to Your Potential On (and Off) the Course Schedule a Mindset Coaching Discovery Call Subscribe to the More Pars than Bogeys Newsletter Download my "Play Your Best Round" free hypnosis audio recording. High-Performance Hypnotherapy and Mindset Coaching Paul Salter - known as The Golf Hypnotherapist - is a High-Performance Hypnotherapist and Mindset Coach who leverages hypnosis and powerful subconscious reprogramming techniques to help golfers of all ages and skill levels overcome the mental hazards of their minds so they can shoot lower scores and play to their potential. He has over 16 years of coaching experience working with high performers in various industries, helping them get unstuck, out of their own way, and unlock their full potential. Click here to learn more about how high-performance hypnotherapy and mindset coaching can help you get out of your own way and play to your potential on (and off) the course.  Instagram: @thegolfhypnotherapist  Twitter: @parsoverbogeys Key Takeaways: Fundamentals are the real secret: grip, aim, posture, and rotation. Believe in what you're doing before you do it—confidence creates competence. Every golfer has their own swing; find yours and own it. Watch your shots. Reflect, don't react. Learn from every miss. Golf is a math contest—it's not about how, it's about how many. The best short games win tournaments, not perfect swings. Focus on targets, not trouble—your body follows your mind. Get your life in order off the course if you expect to play well on it. Match play rewards boring, consistent golf—avoid beating yourself. Mental clutter kills performance. Create your own reset routine to refocus. Key Quotes: "Golf is a math contest. It's not how—it's how many." "Everybody thinks there's a secret. The secret is fundamentals." "Believe before you perform. You don't get confident first—you choose confidence." "Watch it until it lands. Find the root cause—often it's alignment." "Short game takes the heat off your approach shots." "On the course, focus on the target, not the trouble." "In match play, don't beat yourself. A bunch of boring pars wins." Time Stamps: 00:00 The Comeback Story: Overcoming Adversity in Golf 02:59 Mastering the Fundamentals: The Key to Consistent Play 05:48 Mental Preparation: The Power of Visualization and Intentionality 08:38 Managing Expectations: The Importance of Short Game and Course Management 11:22 Mental Clutter: Clearing the Mind for Better Performance 14:15 Focus and Intent: Strategies for Staying Present on the Course 25:16 The Journey of a Golfer: Decades of Success 27:33 The Power of Belief and Fundamentals in Golf 33:21 The Importance of Short Game Mastery 38:17 Golf as a Math Contest: The Strategy Behind Scoring 43:24 Words of Wisdom for Match Play Competitors

High performers don't need "balance"—they need alignment.  In this solo episode, I'll challenge the cultural myth of work-life balance and reframe success around energetic alignment: being ruthless with honesty about what you truly want, communicating clearly with yourself and others, and rhythms that fuel—rather than drain—your focus.  I break down the neuroscience of burnout (why your prefrontal cortex goes offline, limbic system spikes, and motivation flatlines), show how misalignment creates chaos on the course and in business, and offer a practical path: define your wants, design your week around them, and protect one non-work outlet to speed subconscious integration.  In this episode, you'll learn: Why "balance" often sabotages high performers—and what to pursue instead How chronic stress rewires the brain and quietly kills decision-making A simple question that unlocks clarity and alignment ("What do I want?") How honest communication becomes the foundation for sustainable ambition A practical dashboard model for dialing priorities up or down by season Why a non-industry hobby accelerates learning and prevents burnout How to translate alignment into lower scores, stronger leadership, and more joy The goal isn't equal time everywhere; it's intentional energy where it matters most—so you can compete hard, recover well, and feel fulfilled. Get your pencils ready and start listening.  P.S. Curious to learn more about the results my clients are experiencing and what they say about working with me? Read more here. P.P.S. Read "The Myth of Balance" newsletter. Play to Your Potential On (and Off) the Course Schedule a Mindset Coaching Discovery Call Subscribe to the More Pars than Bogeys Newsletter Download my "Play Your Best Round" free hypnosis audio recording. High-Performance Hypnotherapy and Mindset Coaching Paul Salter - known as The Golf Hypnotherapist - is a High-Performance Hypnotherapist and Mindset Coach who leverages hypnosis and powerful subconscious reprogramming techniques to help golfers of all ages and skill levels overcome the mental hazards of their minds so they can shoot lower scores and play to their potential. He has over 16 years of coaching experience working with high performers in various industries, helping them get unstuck, out of their own way, and unlock their full potential. Click here to learn more about how high-performance hypnotherapy and mindset coaching can help you get out of your own way and play to your potential on (and off) the course.  Instagram: @thegolfhypnotherapist Key Takeaways: Balance ≠ equal hours—set your week by intentional energy, not symmetry. Burnout is a brain problem: stress dulls focus and creativity; you play and lead worse. Ask it daily: "What do I want?"—then build practice, work, and family rhythms around it. Honest communication first with yourself, then with partner, kids, and team. Seasonal dials: different goals need different settings; adjust without guilt. Have one non-golf outlet (or non-work for entrepreneurs) to recharge and integrate skills. Alignment feels clean: fewer reactive decisions, more presence over the ball—and at home. Key Quotes: "High performers don't need balance—they need alignment." "Chasing society's balance felt inauthentic; alignment felt honest." "Chronic stress turns your prefrontal cortex down and your limbic system up." "Ask yourself all day long: What do I want? Then design around that answer." "Every breakthrough begins with honest communication—starting with you." "You can have it all—just not all at 100 at the same time." "The goal isn't dividing time; it's defining your truth and protecting your energy."

What if your inconsistency on the golf course wasn't about mechanics—but about how your brain is wired to learn, handle stress, and perform under pressure? In this episode of The Scratch Golfer's Mindset Podcast, I sit down with John Weir, creator of Mental Golf Type, to explore how personality wiring, hypnosis, and mental fitness shape your golf performance and your life.  John breaks down why self-image is the foundation of confidence, how stress changes your swing before mechanics ever do, and why "being you" is the ultimate competitive advantage. In this episode, you'll learn: What hypnosis really is (and why it's a natural state of mind). The role of brainwaves in learning, confidence, and performance. How self-image is formed—and how to reshape it for success. Why celebrating positive shots accelerates growth. The difference between mental game strategies and mindset training. How your personality type influences stress, learning, and consistency. Why "being you" is the fastest path to your zone state. Whether you're trying to break 90, win your club championship, or gain an edge in business, John's insights will help you understand yourself at a deeper level—and show you how to align with your strengths for lasting success. Get your pencils ready and start listening.  P.P.S. Curious to learn more about the results my clients are experiencing and what they say about working with me? Read more here. More About John John Weir is the creator of the Mental Golf Type® program, author of Golfer's Guide to Mental Fitness, and co-founder of Mental Golf Type LLC, where he helps golfers around the world unlock peak performance through the power of the mind. With over 23 years of experience, John holds a psychology degree from Point Park University, is an NLP Master Practitioner, and a board certified hypnotist/instructor via the National Guild of Hypnotists. John has trained coaches and practitioners in 60 countries through his golf hypnosis certification course, and his mental performance coaching has contributed to multiple national championship wins—including with Seminole State College's women's golf team. He is a recognized authority in his field, has received top honors from the National Guild of Hypnotists, and has been featured by media outlets like ESPN Radio, FOX Sports, and Golf Magazine. Learn your Mental Golf Type and get certified here. Play to Your Potential On (and Off) the Course Schedule a Mindset Coaching Discovery Call Subscribe to the More Pars than Bogeys Newsletter Download my "Play Your Best Round" free hypnosis audio recording. High-Performance Hypnotherapy and Mindset Coaching Paul Salter - known as The Golf Hypnotherapist - is a High-Performance Hypnotherapist and Mindset Coach who leverages hypnosis and powerful subconscious reprogramming techniques to help golfers of all ages and skill levels overcome the mental hazards of their minds so they can shoot lower scores and play to their potential. He has over 16 years of coaching experience working with high performers in various industries, helping them get unstuck, out of their own way, and unlock their full potential. Click here to learn more about how high-performance hypnotherapy and mindset coaching can help you get out of your own way and play to your potential on (and off) the course.  Instagram: @thegolfhypnotherapist  Twitter: @parsoverbogeys Key Takeaways: Hypnosis is a natural brainwave state that improves learning and receptivity. Self-image, formed in childhood, drives confidence, habits, and athletic identity. Celebrating positive shots (with emotion) hardwires them into memory. Stress and cortisol—not swing flaws—often cause inconsistency. Personality type influences how you process information and respond under pressure. Mental fitness is like physical fitness—it requires daily training. True performance comes from being yourself, not mimicking the pros. Key Quotes: "Hypnosis is simply a natural state of mind—it's how we learn best." "Your subconscious doesn't care if it's positive or negative—it just supports your self-image." "Every good shot deserves a fist pump. Celebrate the positive to wire it in." "Most inconsistency in golf isn't mechanical—it's stress shutting down the motor cortex." "Your personality type is your wiring. Once you know it, performance becomes simpler." "Mental fitness is just as important as physical fitness—you need both daily." "The zone isn't about being Tiger or Phil—it's about being yourself." Time Stamps: 00:00: Understanding Hypnosis and Brain Waves 02:44: The Importance of Receptive States 05:42: Building Self-Image and Overcoming Limiting Beliefs 08:29: Emotional Anchoring and Positive Reinforcement 11:30: Mental Fitness: A New Approach to Hypnosis 14:30: The Role of Personality in Performance 17:21: Stress Management and Performance Consistency 20:17: Understanding Learning Styles and Personality Types 23:13: The Impact of Personality on Relationships 26:14: Simplifying the Path to Improvement 29:08: The Power of Self-Acceptance 32:13: The Importance of Slowing Down 35:00: Final Thoughts and Key Takeaways

What if the stress, chaos, and self-sabotage you keep bumping into are exactly what a hidden part of you wants?  In this solo episode, I explore the powerful concept from the book, "Existential Kink," that "having is a form of wanting" and reveal how your mind can secretly crave the very patterns that hold you back.  Through a raw personal story and a three-step framework, you'll learn how to uncover hidden programs that create stress and sabotage in your golf game, business, and life, so you can finally break free and play with calm, confidence, and clarity. In this episode, you'll learn: What "having is a form of wanting" means for your golf game and life How early programming creates today's patterns of chaos, fear, and urgency A three-step method (Acknowledge, Accept, Act) to shift stubborn habits How curiosity + breath turn discomfort into data you can use Why identity fear keeps you "almost there" (breaking 80, scaling revenue) A 15-minute journal exercise to map stressors and rewrite beliefs If you've been "almost" breaking 80, "almost" scaling the business, or "almost" following up with hot leads, this will help you see why—and how to finally play free.  Get your pencils ready and start listening.  P.S. Curious to learn more about the results my clients are experiencing and what they say about working with me? Read more here. Play to Your Potential On (and Off) the Course Schedule a Mindset Coaching Discovery Call Subscribe to the More Pars than Bogeys Newsletter Download my "Play Your Best Round" free hypnosis audio recording. High-Performance Hypnotherapy and Mindset Coaching Paul Salter - known as The Golf Hypnotherapist - is a High-Performance Hypnotherapist and Mindset Coach who leverages hypnosis and powerful subconscious reprogramming techniques to help golfers of all ages and skill levels overcome the mental hazards of their minds so they can shoot lower scores and play to their potential. He has over 16 years of coaching experience working with high performers in various industries, helping them get unstuck, out of their own way, and unlock their full potential. Click here to learn more about how high-performance hypnotherapy and mindset coaching can help you get out of your own way and play to your potential on (and off) the course.  Instagram: @thegolfhypnotherapist Key Takeaways: Shadow patterns persist because they once met a need; honor that before you edit it. Identity fear ("Who will I be if I break 80?") often blocks the final 5%. Presence + breath are the fastest way to access and soften hidden programs. Acceptance is not approval—it's the on-ramp to real change. Curiosity beats judgment; treat tension in the body as useful feedback. Write the new rule: swap "almost" stories for precise, process-driven scripts. Fitness and daily reps (breath, journaling, hypnosis) cement the new identity. Key Quotes: "Having is a form of wanting—your patterns persist because some part of you benefits." "You can't change code you refuse to read: acknowledge, accept, then act." "Curiosity turns discomfort into data." "Identity fear keeps golfers married to the 'almost broke 80' story." "Acceptance isn't surrender; it's traction." "Breathe where it hurts—presence is the scalpel that removes old programs." "If you want different results, you must believe different—and then do different." Time Stamps: 00:00: The Desire Behind Self-Sabotage 02:45: Reflections on Personal Challenges 05:29: The Boxing Match Experience 11:11: Understanding Patterns of Chaos 16:44: The Subconscious Code of Our Lives 22:11: Acknowledgment and Acceptance for Change

What separates winners on Sunday isn't perfection—it's resilience, disciplined routines, and the will to find a way.  In this conversation, CBS analyst, coach, and author Mark Immelman shares what he's learned from a front-row seat on Tour: why Scottie Scheffler's process never wavers, how Rory's Masters breakthrough rewrote a narrative, and why clutch putting—and perspective—decide tournaments.  We also dig into fitness as the gateway to mental toughness, "the chaser's freedom vs. the leader's burden," and how to keep swinging freely when everything tightens up. In this episode, you'll learn: How elite players use routines to stay present under maximum pressure Why resilience = get up, then don't panic or overhaul your process The difference between playing to win vs. playing not to lose Why clutch putting is the common denominator coming home How fitness amplifies stamina, confidence, and decision quality The power of perspective: results don't define identity Practical ways to manage expectations and let your putter be the star Get your pencils ready and start listening.  P.S. Catch up on my first conversation in episode 58 here. P.P.S. Curious to learn more about the results my clients are experiencing and what they say about working with me? Read more here. More About Mark Mark's knowledge, insight and experience have made him a sought-after mind on the PGA and European tours. Through his career, he has taught and/or consulted to various Major Champions, PGA Tour winners and global Tour professionals.  Some of his accomplishments and titles include: CBS Sports and ESPN - PGA TOUR Announcer Host of the ON THE MARK Podcast Author - Lessons from the Best @mark_immelman on all social media platforms For more information, connect with Mark here: www.markimmelman.com  Play to Your Potential On (and Off) the Course Schedule a Mindset Coaching Discovery Call Subscribe to the More Pars than Bogeys Newsletter Download my "Play Your Best Round" free hypnosis audio recording. High-Performance Hypnotherapy and Mindset Coaching Paul Salter - known as The Golf Hypnotherapist - is a High-Performance Hypnotherapist and Mindset Coach who leverages hypnosis and powerful subconscious reprogramming techniques to help golfers of all ages and skill levels overcome the mental hazards of their minds so they can shoot lower scores and play to their potential. He has over 16 years of coaching experience working with high performers in various industries, helping them get unstuck, out of their own way, and unlock their full potential. Click here to learn more about how high-performance hypnotherapy and mindset coaching can help you get out of your own way and play to your potential on (and off) the course.  Instagram: @thegolfhypnotherapist  Twitter: @parsoverbogeys Key Takeaways: Resilience has two parts: get up after setbacks and resist the urge to "fix everything" when you do. Routine is armor: Scheffler's unwavering pre-shot/process is a blueprint for stability when the heat rises. Win with the putter: Final-nine scorelines (33–35) come from one-putting key moments—par saves matter as much as birdies. Chaser's freedom vs. leader's burden: If you're chasing, be boldly smart; if you're leading, avoid prevent-defense golf. Fitness fuels mindset: Strength before endless stretching—capacity under heat/pressure comes from being strong and conditioned. Perspective frees you: Care about doing the right thing, not about outcomes—play "with house money" more often. Self-awareness wins: Know your real-time yardages, conditions, and "today's shot"—choose the smart side of flags. Key Quotes: "You never fall to world number one—you outlast everyone else." "Winners find a way. It isn't pretty; it's often a war of attrition." "Let your putter be the superstar." "Resilience isn't changing everything after a bad shot—it's sticking to what works." "The chaser has freedom; the leader carries the burden." "Get strong, then get mobile—most golfers aren't tight; they're not strong enough." "Care about doing the right thing, not the result—play free and the scores follow." Time Stamps: 00:00: Introduction and Overview of the Golf Season 02:43: Key Players and Their Impressive Performances 05:27: The Importance of Fitness in Golf 08:03: Resilience in Golf: The Key to Success 10:57: JJ Spaun's Career Transformation 14:03: Tommy Fleetwood's Journey and Challenges 15:27: The Nature of Winning and Losing in Golf 17:22: The Role of Self-Belief in Achieving Success 19:34: The Dynamics of Competition in Golf 21:55: The Mental Game: Awareness and Strategy 24:36: The Importance of Team and Communication 25:48: The Future of Golf: Emerging Talents and Rivalries

What if the secret to confidence, peak performance, and even happiness wasn't about being perfect all the time—but learning how to access a powerful brainwave state on demand? In this conversation, I sit down with Dr. Izzy Justice—neuroscientist, performance coach, and author of Your Brain Swings Every Club—to explore the science of brainwaves, trauma, and what he calls "Chasing 10 Hertz." You'll hear how endurance events, emotional relativity, and even micro-traumas shape confidence, how to intentionally "spike down" into presence, and why your brain's electricity is the language of the human experience. Dr. Justice breaks down how confidence and pessimism are simply access issues, why sensory input is the key to flow, and how to simplify your pursuit of peak performance in golf, business, and life. In this episode, you'll learn: Why doing hard things expands your benchmark for confidence and resilience How trauma—both big and micro—acts as the ultimate backdrop for your decisions The neuroscience behind brainwave states and their impact on performance What makes the 10 Hertz state so powerful and how to access it How to "spike down" when stress or distraction takes over Why happiness is really about amplifying sensory input A practical way to simplify performance by only being "perfect" twice a day Get your pencils ready and start listening.  P.S. Curious to learn more about the results my clients are experiencing and what they say about working with me? Read more here. More About Dr. Izzy Justice Dr. Izzy Justice is the Chief Neuroscience officer at Neuro580, a ground-breaking company focused on addressing mental wellness in the workplace. He brings three decades of experience in Human Capital, Healthcare and Business Consulting. Izzy has worked at Deloitte, Cerner and Premier.  As an Executive Coach, he has coached over 30 CEOs, dozens of Chief People Officers to orchestrate unlocking of human potential leveraging Neuroscience as the key competency. He also works with dozens of professional athletes/coaches winning Major Championships and Olympic Gold in 2024. He has authored 9 books. His 10th book, Chasing 10Hz - Life Explained is due out Fall 2026. He is a 5-Time Ironman Finisher. Learn more about Dr. Izzy Justice here Connect on Instagram Play to Your Potential On (and Off) the Course Schedule a Mindset Coaching Discovery Call Subscribe to the More Pars than Bogeys Newsletter Download my "Play Your Best Round" free hypnosis audio recording. High-Performance Hypnotherapy and Mindset Coaching Paul Salter - known as The Golf Hypnotherapist - is a High-Performance Hypnotherapist and Mindset Coach who leverages hypnosis and powerful subconscious reprogramming techniques to help golfers of all ages and skill levels overcome the mental hazards of their minds so they can shoot lower scores and play to their potential. He has over 16 years of coaching experience working with high performers in various industries, helping them get unstuck, out of their own way, and unlock their full potential. Click here to learn more about how high-performance hypnotherapy and mindset coaching can help you get out of your own way and play to your potential on (and off) the course.  Instagram: @thegolfhypnotherapist  Twitter: @parsoverbogeys Key Takeaways: Confidence is access, not a trait—you either access empowering memories or traumatic ones. Trauma is the ultimate benchmark—it shapes risk perception more than success does. Electricity is the brain's language—high spikes drown sensory input and sabotage performance. 10 Hertz is the sweet spot—it amplifies sensory input and unlocks stored knowledge. Presence = sensory amplification—seeing, feeling, hearing more deeply in the moment. Flow isn't magic—it's measurable through brainwaves, heart rate, and oxygen levels. Be "perfect" twice a day—reserve your energy for the two most important moments instead of chasing constant perfection. Key Quotes: "Confidence and pessimism aren't traits—they're both access issues." "We don't have to be perfect all the time—just perfect in the moments that matter." "Electricity is the language of the brain—and therefore the human experience." "Your trauma is your hostage, but you can use it as fuel instead of shackles." "At 10 Hertz, sensory input is amplified and your best self shows up." "Happiness isn't about possessions—it's about amplifying what you feel, see, and hear." "The best experiences of our lives always happen in the same state—why keep it a secret?" Time Stamps: 00:00: The Allure of Ultra-Endurance Events 02:34: Emotional Relativity and Personal Growth 05:45: The Role of Trauma in Personal Development 08:32: Happiness and the Pursuit of Meaning 11:25: Amplifying Sensory Input for Fulfillment 14:15: Understanding Brainwave States and Performance 27:12: Understanding Trauma and Its Impact on Performance 28:49: The Power of 10 Hertz in Enhancing Sensory Input 31:39: Cognitive Functionality and Accessing Memory 37:41: Flow State: The Intersection of Performance and Presence 40:38: Perception of Time: How We Experience Moments 47:26: The Role of Substances in Achieving 10 Hertz 51:47: Actionable Takeaways for Achieving Peak Performance

Life got challenging off the course—and then those challenges spilled onto it.  In this raw Q3 recap of my golf journey and goal to achieve a five-handicap by the end of the year, I share how radical honesty, asking for help, and doubling down on core habits protected my energy, clarified my priorities, and still led to meaningful golf progress.  In this episode, you'll learn: How radical acceptance lowers emotional resistance and restores focus Why asking for help collapses the timeline for healing and improvement The core routine (fitness, meditation, journaling, rest) that safeguards performance How to recalibrate priorities without quitting your goals Using mental reps to keep swing feels sharp when course time is limited A practical reframe: "Let go to level up" How small technical changes (smoother takeaway) unlocked long-iron consistency If you're juggling parenting, business, and a game you love, this one's for you. Get your pencils ready and start listening.  P.S. Curious to learn more about the results my clients are experiencing and what they say about working with me? Read more here. P.P.S On the art and science of acceptance. Play to Your Potential On (and Off) the Course Schedule a Mindset Coaching Discovery Call Subscribe to the More Pars than Bogeys Newsletter Download my "Play Your Best Round" free hypnosis audio recording. High-Performance Hypnotherapy and Mindset Coaching Paul Salter - known as The Golf Hypnotherapist - is a High-Performance Hypnotherapist and Mindset Coach who leverages hypnosis and powerful subconscious reprogramming techniques to help golfers of all ages and skill levels overcome the mental hazards of their minds so they can shoot lower scores and play to their potential. He has over 16 years of coaching experience working with high performers in various industries, helping them get unstuck, out of their own way, and unlock their full potential. Click here to learn more about how high-performance hypnotherapy and mindset coaching can help you get out of your own way and play to your potential on (and off) the course.  Instagram: @thegolfhypnotherapist Key Takeaways: Radical Acceptance > Resistance: Naming reality reduces friction and frees up energy for purposeful action. Vulnerability Is a Performance Tool: Sharing the hard stuff with trusted people lightens the load and clarifies next actions. Coaching Collapses Time: A coach provides perspective, helps release emotion, and speeds learning—on and off the course. Protect Your Energy Rituals: Cold plunge, meditation, journaling, strategic rest, and 3+ weekly workouts stabilize your mind. Recalibrate Without Quitting: Seasons change; adjust goals and inputs without abandoning the mission. Mental Reps Matter: Visualization and structured recall kept ball-striking sharp despite fewer rounds. Simple Tech Wins: A slower, smoother takeaway reduced hip stress and improved long-iron contact and driver consistency. Key Quotes: "There is so much power in your vulnerability—and strength in asking for help." "Let go to level up; don't let the past dictate the present." "Acceptance, grace, and patience: that's the work." "Coaching collapses the timeline for healing, learning, and progress." "You're the author—recalibrate priorities with honesty and intention." "Fitness is the lowest-hanging fruit for a resilient mindset." "Reflection accelerates pattern recognition—and pattern recognition drives change." Time Stamps: 00:00: The Journey of Vulnerability in Golf 02:53: Navigating Life's Challenges and Golf Progress 07:24: The Power of Reflection and Seeking Help 12:45: Embracing Acceptance, Grace, and Patience 19:15: The Role of Coaching in Personal Growth 24:22: Fitness and Self-Care as Foundations for Success 28:23: Looking Ahead: Golfing Goals and Future Aspirations

In this episode of The Scratch Golfer's Mindset Podcast, I sit down with Evan Singer, Mental Coach and Host of The Par Train Podcast, for a conversation that blends golf, life, relationships, and fatherhood into one powerful masterclass on resilience, self-awareness, and asking for what you want.  From transforming pain into purpose to managing stress on the course, Evan shares how to find clarity in what you truly want—whether in golf, business, or love—and how to use reflection as a performance supercharger.  In this episode, you'll learn: Why discomfort is often the catalyst for clarity and growth How to ask for what you want without fear or guilt The "full body yes" test for making aligned decisions A simple yet powerful framework for managing on-course stress How to build a reset routine after back-to-back bad holes The role of ruthless reflection in accelerating improvement What fatherhood teaches about perspective, presence, and priorities This is a conversation about slowing down, embracing discomfort, and learning to "enjoy the ride" no matter what life throws your way. Get your pencils ready and start listening.  P.S. Curious to learn more about the results my clients are experiencing and what they say about working with me? Read more here. More About Evan Evan Singer is the co-founder and co-host of The Par Train podcast, a top-ranked golf and mindset show that blends sports psychology, personal growth, and on-course strategy.  Drawing from years of mental performance coaching, personal development work, and his own journey through life's challenges, Evan helps golfers transform their mental approach to the game and life. He works with players of all skill levels to build resilience, improve focus, and enjoy the ride—no matter what obstacles come their way. More about Evan and the Part Train Podcast here. Connect with Evan on Instagram here.  Play to Your Potential On (and Off) the Course Schedule a Mindset Coaching Discovery Call Subscribe to the More Pars than Bogeys Newsletter Download my "Play Your Best Round" free hypnosis audio recording. High-Performance Hypnotherapy and Mindset Coaching Paul Salter - known as The Golf Hypnotherapist - is a High-Performance Hypnotherapist and Mindset Coach who leverages hypnosis and powerful subconscious reprogramming techniques to help golfers of all ages and skill levels overcome the mental hazards of their minds so they can shoot lower scores and play to their potential. He has over 16 years of coaching experience working with high performers in various industries, helping them get unstuck, out of their own way, and unlock their full potential. Click here to learn more about how high-performance hypnotherapy and mindset coaching can help you get out of your own way and play to your potential on (and off) the course.  Instagram: @thegolfhypnotherapist  Twitter: @parsoverbogeys Key Takeaways: Enjoying the ride isn't about everything going to plan—it's about embracing discomfort as part of the journey. Pain and setbacks are often the catalysts for clarity and change. Clarity comes from experimentation, not overthinking. Evan found love by treating dating like a learning process instead of a performance. Most people stay stuck in "what they don't want" instead of taking action toward what they do want. Asking for what you want—even if it's not on the "menu"—can radically change your experience. Stress thrives in ambiguity. It fades when you have something concrete to focus on, like a finish cue in your swing. Ruthless reflection (in golf and life) accelerates growth and learning. True fulfillment balances selfishness (knowing what you want) with selflessness (being present for others). Nervousness and excitement feel similar but come from different frames—fear is defensive, excitement is offensive. You must slow down to build awareness. Slowing down brings your thinking brain back online. Key Quotes: "Some of my most painful experiences in life have single-handedly led me to the greatest things in my life." "When you start saying no to the wrong fits, you're signaling to the universe that you're ready for the right one." "You can't tell a soldier in Iraq to act like it's North Carolina—you have to accept where you are and work from there." "Stress fades when you strip away the noise and focus on a task you feel competent enough to do." "True happiness lives on the line between selfish and selfless—you need both to be your best." Time Stamps: 00:00: Embracing the Journey: Finding Joy in Discomfort 10:47: The Power of Clarity: Understanding What You Truly Want 21:46: Asking for What You Want: The Art of Self-Advocacy 27:22: Selflessly Selfish: The Importance of Personal Needs 29:53: Understanding Excitement vs. Nervousness 36:34: Stress Management: Strategies for Success 43:06: Lessons from Fatherhood: Empathy and Growth

What if the reason you can't sleep the night before a big round—or why you can't stop obsessing over quarterly numbers—isn't about golf or business at all…  …but about a childhood program that taught you love and belonging only come when you deliver results? In this powerful solo episode of The Scratch Golfer's Mindset Podcast, I break down how childhood conditioning wires us to equate grades, trophies, and revenue with self-worth—and why that creates a boom-and-bust cycle of stress, burnout, and inconsistency on the course and in business.  You'll learn how to detach from outcomes, reset expectations, and anchor to a relentless process so confidence rises, performance stabilizes, and results follow (in golf and life). If you're ready to trade scoreboard obsession for sustainable growth, this one's for you. In this episode, you'll learn: Why "results = worth" is a destructive mindset program—and how it formed How outcome attachment fuels burnout, anxiety, and relationship strain The difference between expectation and reality (and how that gap breeds doubt) The "law of lagging results" and how to think in 3–6 month horizons How to measure success by execution quality (process > outcome) How process mastery builds durable confidence that travels off the course If you've ever walked off the 18th green or closed your laptop at midnight feeling like your score or your sales defined your worth as a person, this episode is for you.  Get your pencils ready and start listening.  P.S. Curious to learn more about the results my clients are experiencing and what they say about working with me? Read more here. Play to Your Potential On (and Off) the Course Schedule a Mindset Coaching Discovery Call Subscribe to the More Pars than Bogeys Newsletter Download my "Play Your Best Round" free hypnosis audio recording. High-Performance Hypnotherapy and Mindset Coaching Paul Salter - known as The Golf Hypnotherapist - is a High-Performance Hypnotherapist and Mindset Coach who leverages hypnosis and powerful subconscious reprogramming techniques to help golfers of all ages and skill levels overcome the mental hazards of their minds so they can shoot lower scores and play to their potential. He has over 16 years of coaching experience working with high performers in various industries, helping them get unstuck, out of their own way, and unlock their full potential. Click here to learn more about how high-performance hypnotherapy and mindset coaching can help you get out of your own way and play to your potential on (and off) the course.  Instagram: @thegolfhypnotherapist Key Takeaways: Outcome attachment is learned early; many of us equate love/approval with winning or straight A's. When worth is tied to scorecards and sales, every dip triggers shame, fear, and urgency masked as "hustle." Expectation–reality gaps invite doubt; manage expectations to calm your nervous system and execute better. Golf and business have lagging results—today's outcomes reflect the last 3–6 months of execution. Process execution (pre-shot, practice, post-round) is the only victory fully in your control—and it compounds. Scoring your day by execution quality builds a bank account of evidence and genuine confidence. Detachment isn't apathy; it's a disciplined focus on controllables that ultimately produces better results. Key Quotes: "Your results are feedback, not a verdict on your worth." "Detachment is discipline—it frees you to execute the process with clarity." "Manage expectations, and your emotions stop hijacking the wheel." "Today's score is the echo of the last 3–6 months of work." "If you want better results, measure what you can control: execution quality." "Confidence grows fastest when you tie it to consistency, not trophies." "You don't need bigger goals—you need a tighter process and fewer leaks." Time Stamps: 00:00: The Impact of Childhood Experiences on Self-Worth 07:17: Understanding the Attachment to Results 13:59: The Consequences of Tying Self-Worth to Results 15:21: Strategies for Detaching Self-Worth from Results 23:08: Action Steps for Personal Growth

In this episode of The Scratch Golfer's Mindset Podcast, I sit down with one of Europe's leading Performance Coaches and the Founder of Mind Caddie app, Karl Morris, to dive deep into why attention is the true currency of performance—both on the golf course and in life.  We explore how to train your focus in a world full of distractions, the power of asking better questions to guide every shot, and how to gamify your mental training so you can measure and improve it. Karl shares practical tools for shifting from threat mode to opportunity mode, building resiliency through acceptance, and closing the gap between your range game and your on-course results.  In this episode, you'll learn: Why attention—not time—is your most valuable resource in golf How to use powerful, well-timed questions to sharpen focus instantly The "tick game" method to measure and improve your mental game How to shift from threat mode to opportunity mode on the course Practical strategies for staying present between shots Ways to bridge the gap between range performance and on-course execution How identity and intentionality shape your results and enjoyment If you've ever struggled to stay present, manage your thoughts, or bring your best game to the course, this conversation is packed with strategies you can start using right away. Get your pencils ready and start listening.  P.S. Curious to learn more about the results my clients are experiencing and what they say about working with me? Read more here. More About Karl Karl Morris is one of Europe's leading performance coaches, with over 30 years of experience helping golfers at every level—from weekend players to multiple Major champions—unlock their potential. Known for his practical, no-nonsense approach, Karl specializes in mental game strategies that are easy to apply under pressure.  He has worked with six Major winners, dozens of European Tour and PGA Tour professionals, and countless elite amateurs. As the founder of The Mind Factor and creator of the Mind Caddie app, Karl is dedicated to making mental performance training accessible, actionable, and results-driven for golfers worldwide. Play to Your Potential On (and Off) the Course Schedule a Mindset Coaching Discovery Call Subscribe to the More Pars than Bogeys Newsletter Download my "Play Your Best Round" free hypnosis audio recording. High-Performance Hypnotherapy and Mindset Coaching Paul Salter - known as The Golf Hypnotherapist - is a High-Performance Hypnotherapist and Mindset Coach who leverages hypnosis and powerful subconscious reprogramming techniques to help golfers of all ages and skill levels overcome the mental hazards of their minds so they can shoot lower scores and play to their potential. He has over 16 years of coaching experience working with high performers in various industries, helping them get unstuck, out of their own way, and unlock their full potential. Click here to learn more about how high-performance hypnotherapy and mindset coaching can help you get out of your own way and play to your potential on (and off) the course.  Instagram: @thegolfhypnotherapist  Twitter: @parsoverbogeys Key Takeaways: Attention is the true currency of performance – In golf and in life, where you place your attention determines your results and your experience. Better questions create better focus – Asking "What does a good shot look like here?" can instantly direct your mind toward a clear, useful target. Gamifying your mental game builds consistency – The "tick game" creates a measurable way to track focus and commitment on every shot. Acceptance fuels resiliency – Being willing to deal with the reality of the game (good shots, okay shots, poor shots) allows you to bounce back faster. Golf is an opportunity, not a threat – Viewing each shot as a chance rather than a danger shifts physiology, mindset, and performance. Key Quotes: "Attention is the currency of performance." "You don't have to believe what you think; there's a difference between having thoughts and deliberate thinking." "The quality of your life will be determined by the quality of your questions." "Acceptance isn't being happy about a bad shot—it's being willing to deal with the reality of the game." "We're making it all up anyway—so make up something that serves you." Time Stamps: 00:00: Attention as the Currency of Performance 02:57: The Power of Questions in Golf 05:51: Gamifying the Mental Game 08:42: Resiliency and Acceptance in Golf 11:38: The Role of Curiosity and Observation 14:32: Framework for Mental Training 17:31: The Four Quadrants of Mental Game 25:53: Understanding the In-Between Time in Golf 26:31: The Power of Presence: Tuning into the Senses 29:19: Mental Game: Training Attention Away from the Course 31:43: The Impact of Modern Distractions on Focus 36:30: Translating Range Skills to the Course 40:33: The Importance of Identity in Golf Performance 42:55: Gratitude: The Key to Enjoying the Game 44:54: Innovative Tools for Golf Improvement

Why is it so easy to bet on your favorite team, stocks, or fantasy league—yet so hard to bet on yourself?  In this powerful solo episode of The Scratch Golfer's Mindset Podcast, I share why most people avoid going all in on themselves and the fears, excuses, and illusions of control that keep them stuck. I open up about my own story of leaving a secure path at IMG Academy, walking away from 90% of my income at Renaissance Periodization, and investing $50,000 into a coach when I had nothing certain lined up—all because I was committed to betting on myself. In this episode, you'll learn: Why people avoid betting on themselves and play small How illusions of control keep you stuck in fear and excuses The hidden cost of betting only on things outside your control Why responsibility, rejection, and uncertainty scare us—and how to face them How betting on yourself creates confidence, peace, and exponential growth The role of short-term sacrifice in creating long-term fulfillment Why modeling self-belief inspires and lifts everyone around you This episode is a wake-up call: stop dimming your light, stop waiting for the perfect moment, and take the risk. Because the greatest bet you'll ever place—the one with the highest return—is the bet you place on yourself. Get your pencils ready and start listening.  P.S. Curious to learn more about the results my clients are experiencing and what they say about working with me? Read more here. Play to Your Potential On (and Off) the Course Schedule a Mindset Coaching Discovery Call Subscribe to the More Pars than Bogeys Newsletter Download my "Play Your Best Round" free hypnosis audio recording. High-Performance Hypnotherapy and Mindset Coaching Paul Salter - known as The Golf Hypnotherapist - is a High-Performance Hypnotherapist and Mindset Coach who leverages hypnosis and powerful subconscious reprogramming techniques to help golfers of all ages and skill levels overcome the mental hazards of their minds so they can shoot lower scores and play to their potential. He has over 16 years of coaching experience working with high performers in various industries, helping them get unstuck, out of their own way, and unlock their full potential. Click here to learn more about how high-performance hypnotherapy and mindset coaching can help you get out of your own way and play to your potential on (and off) the course.  Instagram: @thegolfhypnotherapist Key Takeaways: People prefer to bet on what they can't control because it gives them an excuse when things don't work out. Betting on yourself means full ownership—no one else to blame. Fear of judgment, rejection, and failure keeps most people from going all in. Responsibility is scary, but it's also the path to peace and fulfillment. My leap from RP coaching and a $50,000 investment was proof of betting on myself—and it paid off. Confidence and belief are built in action, not in waiting for certainty. Betting on yourself elevates everyone around you through your example. Key Quotes: "You can't become better unless you bet on yourself." "When you bet on things beyond your control, you reinforce self-doubt." "Fear and confidence can coexist—you can be scared and certain at the same time." "The biggest risk isn't failing. It's never knowing what could have happened if you bet on yourself." "Money comes and goes. Focus and attention are the true currencies of high performance." "Stop dimming your light—you're teaching your kids it's okay to play small." "Every bet you place on yourself creates a ripple effect of belief, confidence, and growth." Time Stamps: 00:00: Why We Bet on the Wrong Things 02:00: My Early Career at IMG Academy 04:30: Cold Calls & Finding RP 06:30: Building a Coaching Business 08:40: Walking Away from 90% of My Income 10:55: The $50,000 Bet That Changed Everything 12:30: Why We Avoid Betting on Ourselves 14:40: Two Paths: Conflict vs. Fulfillment 16:15: Rewiring Belief & Confidence 18:10: Fear and Confidence Can Coexist 20:15: The Hard Truth About Sacrifice 22:05: The Ripple Effect of Self-Belief 23:45: Final Challenge: Bet on Yourself

Tournament golf will test every ounce of your discipline, patience, and emotional control—and Michael Leonard has lived it.  In this conversation, good friend and founder of Wicked Smart Golf, Michael Leonard, is back on the show to break down the real differences between the mental game and mindset training, the traits that separate consistent performers from the rest, and how to protect your energy when negativity surrounds you.  In this episode, you'll learn: The key differences between the mental game of golf and true mindset training How to identify and eliminate self-talk that sabotages your performance Why protecting your energy is a prerequisite for tournament success The growth mindset traits every serious golfer must develop How to use your "dark side" and competitive drive as fuel for improvement Strategies for thriving in high-pressure, tournament conditions The #1 mistake golfers make when transitioning into competitive play Get your pencils ready and start listening.  P.S. Curious to learn more about the results my clients are experiencing and what they say about working with me? Read more here. More About Michael Michael is the founder of Wicked Smart Golf, a brand and podcast dedicated to helping golfers shoot lower scores without overhauling their swings.  A competitive amateur with hundreds of tournament rounds under his belt, Michael has authored a trilogy of golf improvement books covering breaking 90, breaking 80, and mastering tournament play.  Through his writing, speaking, and coaching, he simplifies the mental game, sharpens course management skills, and teaches players how to build the mindset needed to perform under pressure—on and off the course. Connect with him on Instagram. Watch him on YouTube. Purchase "Wicked Smart Golf" on Amazon. Subscribe to the Wicked Smart Golf Podcast.  Work with Michael. Play to Your Potential On (and Off) the Course Schedule a Mindset Coaching Discovery Call Subscribe to the More Pars than Bogeys Newsletter Download my "Play Your Best Round" free hypnosis audio recording. High-Performance Hypnotherapy and Mindset Coaching Paul Salter - known as The Golf Hypnotherapist - is a High-Performance Hypnotherapist and Mindset Coach who leverages hypnosis and powerful subconscious reprogramming techniques to help golfers of all ages and skill levels overcome the mental hazards of their minds so they can shoot lower scores and play to their potential. He has over 16 years of coaching experience working with high performers in various industries, helping them get unstuck, out of their own way, and unlock their full potential. Click here to learn more about how high-performance hypnotherapy and mindset coaching can help you get out of your own way and play to your potential on (and off) the course.  Instagram: @thegolfhypnotherapist  Twitter: @parsoverbogeys Key Takeaways: Mindset is how you think off the course. The mental game is how you execute on it. Self-talk, especially speaking in absolutes, directly shapes performance. Growth mindset starts with how you respond to others' success—use it as fuel. Purpose and competition keep men emotionally engaged and focused. Mentally tough golfers have self-discipline, challenge themselves, and "just keep going." Tournament golf requires planning, emotional regulation, and stimulus management. Stick to your routine. Under pressure, you fall to the level of your habits. The dark side—if understood—can be a powerful motivator. Complacency is the real enemy of progress. Key Quotes: If you're not training mindset daily, it won't be there when you need it most. Self-talk isn't just words—it's wiring your subconscious for what happens next. Tournament golf exposes the gaps between preparation and performance. You fall to the level of your habits, not rise to your expectations. I don't want to retire. I want to die with nothing in the tank. Discipline eventually becomes identity—and that's where the breakthroughs happen. Sometimes you need to create an enemy to bring out your best. Time Stamps: 00:00: Rebuilding Mindset After Loss 03:06: Understanding the Mental Game of Golf vs. Mindset 05:38: The Power of Self-Talk and Its Impact 08:50: Navigating Negative Influences in Golf 11:46: Embracing a Growth Mindset for Success 14:26: The Importance of Perseverance and Patience 17:27: Characteristics of Mentally Tough Individuals 20:18: The Role of Purpose in Motivation 24:58: The Purpose of Work and Life 26:05: Understanding Competitiveness 27:18: Defining Winning in Golf 28:14: Embracing the Dark Side 30:54: Using Enemies as Fuel 32:10: The Importance of Standing Out 33:13: Reflecting on Personal Growth 36:55: Common Misunderstandings in Tournament Golf 40:09: Staying Present in the Moment 41:26: Resources for Improvement