The Spin Axis - Golf Podcast

Continuing our interview with Brian Manzella, we continue to talk about the past and future of golf instruction. We question whether PGA Tour players will simply (and quickly) adjust and regain lost yardage after ball rollback. We discuss the growing availability of practical instruction data and how AI may soon enable golfers to get great swing information from a box. Brian observes how younger instructors bypass tradition in favor of outcomes and talks about individual preferences versus method-based teaching. And yes, we spend some time talking about what we call the "extreme right-side bend swings" that are somewhat popular among the game's younger players (spoiler: we’re not big fans). Hosts: Erik J. Barzeski, Jayson Nickol Sponsor: ShotPattern (https://shotpattern.app/spinaxis/) - Use the code "SPINAXIS" to save 20%! ---- If you enjoyed this episode, please share that with us and your friends on Instagram @thespinaxis or Twitter/X @thespinaxis. You can also share or visit our site at https://thespinaxis.com/.

We’re joined by Brian Manzella, a perennial Golf Digest Top 50 and Golf Magazine Top 100 instructor, with over 40 years of teaching experience and a reputation for blending science with swing artistry. In part one of our two-part conversation, we take a look back at how golf instruction has evolved. We discuss how swings shrank in the early 2000s before stretching out again when distance became a more obvious advantage, the shifting strength of grips, the Johnny Miller reverse-C finish, and the ramifications of the ball rollback. We explore why today’s players need to become world class at more than just one of golf’s skills to succeed in the modern game. Hosts: Erik J. Barzeski, Jayson Nickol Sponsor: Smart2Move (https://smart2move.com/) – The world leader in portable 3D force plates! ---- If you enjoyed this episode, please share that with us and your friends on Instagram @thespinaxis or Twitter/X @thespinaxis. You can also share or visit our site at https://thespinaxis.com/.

This week we were joined by Lou Stagner, the golf data evangelist and Data Insights Lead for Arccos Golf and one of the game’s best-known voices on golf analytics. Lou has built a huge following for his ability to make data both accessible and practical for everyday golfers (even though many STILL won’t believe the stats), both through his Twitter/X account or his weekly newsletter. We dug into two of his most popular topics from the newsletter. First, from Issue 109, Lou walked us through the massive impact of being short-sided versus long-sided around the green, showing how shot outcomes and scoring change dramatically depending on where you miss. Then, from Issue 21, we examined the myth that more distance makes golfers less accurate. Lou shared the numbers on penalty shot percentage, fairways hit, recovery rates, and offline dispersion—and why strokes gained almost always improves for players who add distance. Whether you’re an analytics junkie or just want to shoot lower scores, Lou’s insights are a must-hear. Find Lou’s Newsletter here: https://newsletter.loustagnergolf.com Hosts: Erik J. Barzeski, Jayson Nickol Sponsor: Strike Wedge (https://strikewedge.com) – A multi-use training tool for crisp contact! Use the coupon code "SPINAXIS" to save 15%! ---- If you enjoyed this episode, please share that with us and your friends on Instagram @thespinaxis or Twitter/X @thespinaxis. You can also share or visit our site at https://thespinaxis.com/.

We dive into why distance control is the single most important skill in putting, why so many golfers struggle with it, and how to do it. All too often we see golfers take the putter back too slowly, run out of time, and then "hit" at the ball to make up for it, wrecking both speed and face control. We discuss why the old advice to "accelerate through the ball" can do more harm than good, how tempo tools like a simple metronome reveal the truth about stroke rhythm, and practical drills for training consistent speed and stroke length. For more background, see the long-running discussion on The Sand Trap. Hosts: Erik J. Barzeski, Jayson Nickol, Tyson Deskins Sponsor: Strike Wedge (https://strikewedge.com) - A multi-use training tool for crisp contact! Use the coupon code "SPINAXIS" to save 15%! ---- If you enjoyed this episode, please share that with us and your friends on Instagram @thespinaxis or Twitter/X @thespinaxis. You can also share or visit our site at https://thespinaxis.com/.

We break down what truly changes (and what doesn’t) when you switch from irons to the driver or vice versa. We agree that the differences are smaller than most think: setup leads the way (including a bit more axis tilt, often under six degrees, with the driver), while contact goals shift (no ground contact needed on a tee ball). We explore how gear effect influences misses with the larger head, why tighter spin loft matters, and how lower spin can send shots farther offline. You’ll also hear how minor adjustments to sway and path help keep your favorite feels intact across both clubs. Hosts: Erik J. Barzeski, Jayson Nickol, Tyson Deskins Sponsor: Smart2Move (https://smart2move.com) – The world leader in portable 3D force plates! ---- If you enjoyed this episode, please share that with us and your friends on Instagram @thespinaxis or Twitter/X @thespinaxis. You can also share or visit our site at https://thespinaxis.com/.

We’re joined by Nick, a long-time plus-handicap golfer, former instructor, and veteran fitter for one of the biggest names in golf, to pull back the curtain on the club fitting world. Nick shares his background, the types of golfers he sees most often, and the common flaws in both swings and equipment that show up during fittings. We discuss whether players should get fit while taking lessons or wait until their swing is “ready,” the most common equipment issues like lie angles and shaft weight, and the biggest misconceptions players bring into the fitting bay. Along the way, Nick gives his candid thoughts on how fittings often morph into mini lessons, tells stories from the fitting floor, and offers practical advice for golfers looking to get the most out of the process. Hosts: Erik J. Barzeski, Jayson Nickol, Tyson Deskins Sponsor: Shot Pattern (https://shotpattern.app/spinaxis) – Use the code “SPINAXIS” to save 20%! ---- If you enjoyed this episode, please share that with us and your friends on Instagram @thespinaxis or Twitter/X @thespinaxis. You can also share or visit our site at https://thespinaxis.com/.

In this listener mailbag episode, we tackle five great questions from our audience. We dive into whether players should use their arms or body rotation to shallow the club, how to compress the ball with an in-to-out swing, and whether short game and putting should be recorded like full swings. We also share our favorite clubface control drills and break down the pros and cons of attending a three-day golf school. It’s a rapid-fire episode packed with insights, practice tips, and coaching perspective. Hosts: Erik J. Barzeski, Jayson Nickol, Tyson Deskins Sponsor: A Listener who wished to remain anonymous, who asks that you share your favorite episode with your friends. ---- If you enjoyed this episode, please share that with us and your friends on Instagram @thespinaxis or Twitter/X @thespinaxis. You can also share or visit our site at https://thespinaxis.com/.

In this episode, we compare online and in-person golf lessons. Each format has unique advantages and challenges. Erik, Jayson, and Tyson discuss the value of hands-on instruction, real-time adjustments, and subtle feedback like facial reactions to good or bad shots. They also highlights how online lessons can be more affordable, accessible, and flexible, but also more dependent on great communication and student initiative. Whether you’re choosing between lesson formats or just curious about how each works, this episode will help you understand which might fit your game best. Hosts: Erik J. Barzeski, Jayson Nickol, Tyson Deskins Sponsor: Shot Pattern (https://shotpattern.app/spinaxis) – Use the code “SPINAXIS” to save 20%!   ---- If you enjoyed this episode, please share that with us and your friends on Instagram @thespinaxis or Twitter/X @thespinaxis. You can also share or visit our site at https://thespinaxis.com/.

In this episode, we unpack what makes a great student in golf lessons. Erik leads a discussion based on his viral Twitter thread detailing 14 traits of successful students, from being open to change and having a growth mindset to showing up on time and asking thoughtful questions. Jayson and Tyson weigh in on each point, sharing their coaching experiences and emphasizing the importance of realistic expectations, exaggeration in practice, and embracing ups and downs. Whether you’re brand new to lessons or a seasoned student, this episode will help you get the most out of your coaching experience… and maybe even make your coach love you a little more. 1. Be Open to Change.2. Be Willing to Work.3. Ask Good and Relevant Questions.4. Be on Time and Take Care of Payment.5. Be clear about your expectations and ability to practice.6. Don’t say you want to be more consistent.7. Slow down.8. Be patient.9. Be yourself.10. Have a growth mindset.11. Work on one thing at a time.12. Accept that you may hit it a little worse for awhile.13. Stay in touch with your coach, because they care.14. Be willing to exaggerate. Hosts: Erik J. Barzeski, Jayson Nickol, Tyson Deskins Sponsor: Fit for Golf (https://fitforgolf.app/) – Use the code “SPINAXIS” to save 20%! ---- If you enjoyed this episode, please share that with us and your friends on Instagram @thespinaxis or Twitter/X @thespinaxis. You can also share or visit our site at https://thespinaxis.com/.

In this episode, we dig into the nuances of grip pressure — how hard should you actually hold the club during a swing? We challenge the old “baby bird” analogy, explore how amateurs and professionals differ in both strength and pressure patterns, and debate when in the swing grip pressure matters most. With supporting insights from leading biomechanists Dr. Sasho MacKenzie and Dr. Tyler Standifird, we unpack whether grip pressure is a limiting factor in clubhead speed, how it affects consistency, and how to train it effectively (as well as whether you should even bother). From transitions to tempo, and training tools to tension leaks, this episode covers why how you hold the club might matter more than you think. Hosts: Erik J. Barzeski, Jayson Nickol, Tyson Deskins Sponsor: Hack Motion (https://hackmotion.com/) – Use the code “SPINAXIS” to save! ====== Full quotes from Doctors Standifird and MacKenzie: Dr. Tyler Standifird: 1. It needs to be trained specifically. I know there are groups who say it is trained just if we do heavy weight training, and that is kind of true, but the specificity of grip strength training is so easy and effective that we all should be doing it. I compare it to like how a bent over row in the gym strengthens your bicep, but that if you really want to get your bicep bigger you do curls. 2. Speed training is not enough, again at least in my experience I don’t think speed training on it’s own strengthens grip, helps you learn I think how to maybe utilize what you have in grip strength a bit better/more efficiently, but again refer back to number 1. 3. I agree with what you say about training it to avoid that slipping feeling. Just met with a player who is doing GRF assessments looking for more speed. He is up to maybe a 124/125 club speed, but is saying he feels the club slip just a bit. His grip strength is around 41 kg in the lead side, starting to be a limiting factor for him, can’t hold onto the club. I’d say pros maybe apply more force in the swing if that makes sense. So if they are stronger their 8/10 might be 44 kg, vs a 45 year old amateur at 8/10 might be 31 kg. Also even the higher level players I have had on the sensor edge device are not 3/10. Not even close. Lowest I have seen with all my players, pro, amateurs and in between was about a 5.6/10. And that guy had a grip strength of 65 kg, so huge strength. Most people end up in the 7-9 range, regardless of skill level, its more of that patterns that change as players get better. Using something like the SuperSpeed squeeze can be an effective way to “trick” a golfer into training grip strength when they think they are practicing golf. The fat grip is shown to enhance muscular activation in grip/forearm. So they will get that benefit when they take swings and additionally it will force them to grip down tighter because it feels that the club is going to move out of their hands. This helps them train the feels of developing more force when needed in the swing. Also static grip strength training, gripping something, squeezing something is very effective, no matter that apparatus used. The squeeze training includes these as well. ====== Dr. Sasho MacKenzie: I don’t think grip strength, as measured by squeezing something, is important in golf. I have a lot of thoughts on this. I see people get a lot faster without any change in grip strength. Alos, I can’t think of a single time where a club flew out of someone’s hands because they swung too fast for their level of grip strength. Any low to moderate correlation between grip squeeze strength and clubhead speed is not causal. I’ve measured juniors with 120 mph clubhead speed that couldn’t squeeze the juice out of a lemon. Vijay only had one hand on the club at impact swinging at 120 mph.  ----

In this episode, we’re joined by Mike Shade from the wildly popular podcast Chasing Scratch, where he and co-host Eli chronicle their journey to (some day) becoming scratch golfers. We talk to Mike about the emotional and practical challenges of long-term improvement, the biggest misconceptions he’s faced, and what he might do differently if he could start from scratch (pun intended). We also discuss the surprising complexity of golf, his favorite moments from eight seasons of podcasting, and how he structures his practice now. Erik and Jayson are on the mics — and as Mike’s coach, Jayson is particularly interested in some of the answers! — as we dig into the reality of chasing big goals in golf, and why the journey matters just as much as the outcome. Hosts: Erik J. Barzeski, Jayson Nickol Sponsor: The Stack System (https://thestacksystem.com/) – Use the code “SPINAXIS” to save 10%! ---- If you enjoyed this episode, please share that with us and your friends on Instagram @thespinaxis or Twitter/X @thespinaxis. You can also share or visit our site at https://thespinaxis.com/.

In this episode, we dive into the HackMotion training aid — a device that provides real-time data on wrist mechanics in the golf swing. We discuss how we primarily use it to monitor flexion and extension, radial and ulnar movement, and the timing of both throughout the swing and putting stroke. HackMotion helps students understand and refine their wrist positions from setup to impact. We also explore how HackMotion’s audio and vibrational feedback makes it ideal for home practice and online lessons, and how effective it can be used to take your lesson home and continue to work away from the instructor. Along the way, we share lessons from our students that highlight the practical value of accurate wrist data in both full swings and short game work. Hosts: Erik J. Barzeski, Jayson Nickol, Tyson Deskins Sponsor: HackMotion (https://hackmotion.com/) – Use the code “SPINAXIS” to save 5%! ---- If you enjoyed this episode, please share that with us and your friends on Instagram @thespinaxis or Twitter/X @thespinaxis. You can also share or visit our site at https://thespinaxis.com/.

In this episode, Tyson takes the lead and interviews Jayson and Erik about their own golf swings, how they practice, and how those personal efforts shape the way they coach others. We dive into our specific swing tendencies — like crossing the line, poor trail side loading, left wrist position, and rate of closure — and how we tackle them with limited time. The conversation covers everything from exaggerated practice feels to practical applications for our students who share the same challenges. Hosts: Erik J. Barzeski, Jayson Nickol, Tyson Deskins Sponsor: The Stack System (https://thestacksystem.com/) – Use the code “SPINAXIS” to save 10%! ---- If you enjoyed this episode, please share that with us and your friends on Instagram @thespinaxis or Twitter/X @thespinaxis. You can also share or visit our site at https://thespinaxis.com/.

In this episode, we break down how the approach to practice and swing changes shifts depending on the time of year. Should you chase big technical changes mid-season? Or save them for the off-season grind? We talk about when to focus on skill versus mechanics, how to layer in pressure and speed, and the importance of developing feels that last. We also discuss balancing “play mode” with “practice mode” and why your priorities as a golfer might look very different in January compared to July. Hosts: Erik J. Barzeski, Jayson Nickol, Tyson Deskins Sponsor: HackMotion (https://hackmotion.com/) – Use the code “SPINAXIS” to save 5%!---- If you enjoyed this episode, please share that with us and your friends on Instagram @thespinaxis or Twitter/X @thespinaxis. You can also share or visit our site at https://thespinaxis.com/.

Changing a golf swing isn’t just about knowing what to do — it’s about how you go about learning it. In this episode, we talk motor pattern learning: how golfers internalize new movements and build lasting change. We cover common pitfalls like rushing drills, under-using feedback, and expecting it to feel “normal” too soon. Erik shares his five S’s of effective practice, Tyson talks about the value of exaggeration, and Jayson reminds us that a student’s goals and work ethic shape everything. If you’ve ever struggled to make a change stick, this one’s for you. Hosts: Erik J. Barzeski, Jayson Nickol, Tyson Deskins Sponsor: Fit for Golf (https://fitforgolf.app/) – Use the code “SPINAXIS” to save 20%!---- If you enjoyed this episode, please share that with us and your friends on Instagram @thespinaxis or Twitter/X @thespinaxis. You can also share or visit our site at https://thespinaxis.com/.

In this episode, Erik surprises Jayson and Tyson with a list of ten golf training aids — from the classics to the quirky — and they rank each one live, tier list–style. With no prep and no hints, their honest, unfiltered reactions lead to some debate, a few laughs, and plenty of practical insights into what actually works, what’s overhyped, and what might just belong in the trash. If you’ve ever wondered whether that gadget you saw on Instagram is worth your time (or money), this one’s for you. The training aids are: 8-10′ Putting Mat Heavy Flexible Club Ball Between Your Arms Wobble Boards Putting Mirrors Foam Golf Balls Swingyde Alignment Stick Divot Board $300 Launch Monitors Hosts: Erik J. Barzeski, Jayson Nickol, Tyson Deskins Sponsor: The Stack System (https://thestacksystem.com/) – Use the code “SPINAXIS” to save 10%! ---- If you enjoyed this episode, please share that with us and your friends on Instagram @thespinaxis or Twitter/X @thespinaxis. You can also share or visit our site at https://thespinaxis.com/.

Mike Granato of Athletic Motion Golf returns to join us for a discussion centered around Erik’s book, Lowest Score Wins. We take a closer look at the “Pro Tips” chapter — practical advice for golfers who want to lower scores without overhauling their swings. From managing wind like a pro (hint: it’s not just “one more club” across the board) to the truth about par threes and tournament play, this episode dives into the strategic side of scoring better. We also talk about the power of short, focused rounds, reframing “bad shots,” and how to act like you belong below a scoring barrier — because you’ve already broken that barrier (or can!). Whether you’re a serious competitor or a weekend warrior, these are the kinds of small shifts that can add up to big gains. Hosts: Erik J. Barzeski, Tyson Deskins Sponsor: Glo Pro Golf (https://gloprogolf.com/).  ---- If you enjoyed this episode, please share that with us and your friends on Instagram @thespinaxis or Twitter/X @thespinaxis. You can also share or visit our site at https://thespinaxis.com/.

This episode features a conversation with Mike Granato of Athletic Motion Golf, where we dive deep into how GEARS 3D motion capture helps instructors and players better understand — and improve — the golf swing. We talk about how to prioritize data when you’re measuring dozens of swing variables, and how to bridge the gap between elite-level movement patterns and the needs of everyday golfers. Mike also helps tackle a common objection: “A Tour player’s swing isn’t realistic for amateurs to copy.” We unpack where that statement holds truth — and where it becomes a limiting belief. Finally, we explore how golfers can continue to make meaningful progress on their own after working with advanced tech like GEARS, force plates, or launch monitors, and how to convert measurement into actionable, sustainable change. Hosts: Erik J. Barzeski, Tyson Deskins Sponsor: HackMotion (https://hackmotion.com/) – Use the code “SPINAXIS” to save 5%! ---- If you enjoyed this episode, please share that with us and your friends on Instagram @thespinaxis or Twitter/X @thespinaxis. You can also share or visit our site at https://thespinaxis.com/.

In this episode, we dive into some of the most misunderstood ideas that golfers — of all levels — tend to get backward. We break down why your arms shouldn’t do much in the backswing but are crucial in the downswing, why the hands and club don’t just move straight toward the ball from the top, and how “lateral force” is not the same as swaying (and might actually help prevent it). These aren’t just swing tips — they’re deeper concepts that, when understood correctly, can change the way you move and improve. Hosts: Erik J. Barzeski, Jayson Nickol, Tyson Deskins Sponsor: Fit for Golf (https://fitforgolf.app/) – Use the code “SPINAXIS” to save 20%! ---- If you enjoyed this episode, please share that with us and your friends on Instagram @thespinaxis or Twitter/X @thespinaxis. You can also share or visit our site at https://thespinaxis.com/.

In Episode 9 of The Spin Axis, the crew goes draft-style again — this time picking the most common swing issues they see in lessons (excluding grip and setup). From over-the-top swings and open clubfaces to tension-filled postures and chicken-winged finishes, Erik, Jayson, and Tyson break down the problems they coach most often—and how they fix them. You’ll hear practical insights on backswing rotation, arm structure, and why what feels right is often what’s holding you back. If you’ve ever wondered what pros actually work on with everyday golfers, this episode gives you a front-row seat. 1. Tyson: Over the top, open face2. Erik: Pelvis thrust in the backswing3. Jayson: Not rotating in the backswing4. Jayson: Grip/body tension5. Erik: “Ulnar throwing” instead of twist/roll to square face6. Tyson: Chicken wing/poor arm structure Hosts: Erik J. Barzeski, Jayson Nickol, Tyson Deskins Sponsor: The Stack System (https://thestacksystem.com/) – Use the code “SPINAXIS” to save 10%! ---- If you enjoyed this episode, please share that with us and your friends on Instagram @thespinaxis or Twitter/X @thespinaxis. You can also share or visit our site at https://thespinaxis.com/.