The Perfect Par
By Carter Stroup
The Perfect ParSep 18, 2020
Asbury University Golfer - Grayson Head | Season 5 Episode 3
In this episode, I am joined by Asbury University golfer Grayson Head. We discuss his first experiences with college golf, his junior golf career, and important mental principles that will help you play your best golf in any situation.
Methodist University Commit - Lucas Herring | Season 5 Episode 2
In this episode, I am joined for the third time by Lucas Herring. Lucas recently committed to the best-ranked DIII program in the country, Methodist University. We talk about how he chose this program and what he did to get there.
Season 5 Intro
Welcome to season five of The Perfect Par podcast! It is incredible to think that I have been doing this podcast for five years. Thank you to everyone who listens.
This year, I will be focusing more on golfing stories from junior and collegiate players. I hope these stories, balanced with the knowledge-dense episodes from the past years, will help unlock our best golf yet.
Improve Your Practice Rounds with Scott Fawcett | Season 4 Episode 30
In this episode, I finish my conversation with Scott Fawcett. We discuss how to optimize your practice rounds and the future of DECADE Golf.
Scott’s Book Recommendation:
The Art of Learning: An Inner Journey to Optimal Performance by Josh Waitzkin (https://www.amazon.com/Art-Learning-Journey-Optimal-Performance/dp/0743277465)
About DECADE Golf:
DECADE Golf has solved golf strategy by combining shot distribution patterns and PGA Tour scoring statistics. When Scott combined those two data sets he created a simple way to optimize target selection. DECADE quickly generates the optimal target that will produce the lowest score based on distance, hazards, and hole location.
Where to find Scott:
Website: https://web.birdiefire.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/decade_golf/
Twitter: http://twitter.com/scottfawcett
Biomechanics Misconceptions with Sasho MacKenzie | Season 4 Episode 29
In this episode, I conclude my conversation with biomechanics expert Sasho MacKenzie. We discuss common swing misconceptions and the illusion of consistency.
Sasho’s Published Studies:
Read on PubMed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/?term=MacKenzie+SJ&cauthor_id=22900397
About The Stack System:
The Stack System provides dynamic programming directly from golf's leading biomechanist. Speed training secrets previously reserved for Tour players, now available to you.
Where to find Sasho:
Website: https://www.thestacksystem.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thestacksystem/
Twitter: http://twitter.com/SashoMacKenzie
How Strokes Gained Works with Scott Fawcett | Season 4 Episode 28
In this episode, I continue my conversation with Scott Fawcett, creator of DECADE Golf. We discuss stats and strokes gained including:
What is strokes gained?
How should you use it?
Is it better than traditional stats?
Scott’s Book Recommendation:
The Art of Learning: An Inner Journey to Optimal Performance by Josh Waitzkin (https://www.amazon.com/Art-Learning-Journey-Optimal-Performance/dp/0743277465)
About DECADE Golf:
DECADE Golf has solved golf strategy by combining shot distribution patterns and PGA Tour scoring statistics. When Scott combined those two data sets he created a simple way to optimize target selection. DECADE quickly generates the optimal target that will produce the lowest score based on distance, hazards, and hole location.
Where to find Scott:
Website: https://web.birdiefire.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/decade_golf/
Twitter: http://twitter.com/scottfawcett
Golf Biomechanics with Sasho MacKenzie | Season 4 Episode 27
In this episode, I continue my conversation with biomechanics expert Sasho MacKenzie. We discuss ways to optimize your swing for maximum speed including:
How to increase speed through swing mechanics
Swing mechanic speed limiters
Sasho’s Published Studies:
Read on PubMed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/?term=MacKenzie+SJ&cauthor_id=22900397
About The Stack System:
The Stack System provides dynamic programming directly from golf's leading biomechanist. Speed training secrets previously reserved for Tour players, now available to you.
Where to find Sasho:
Website: https://www.thestacksystem.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thestacksystem/
Twitter: http://twitter.com/SashoMacKenzie
LIV Golf Thoughts with Scott Fawcett | Season 4 Episode 26
In this episode, I am once again joined by Scott Fawcett, creator of DECADE Golf. We discuss LIV Golf including:
Is LIV Golf good for the game?
Will it survive?
The problems and benefits LIV has created
Scott’s Book Recommendation:
The Art of Learning: An Inner Journey to Optimal Performance by Josh Waitzkin (https://www.amazon.com/Art-Learning-Journey-Optimal-Performance/dp/0743277465)
About DECADE Golf:
DECADE Golf has solved golf strategy by combining shot distribution patterns and PGA Tour scoring statistics. When Scott combined those two data sets he created a simple way to optimize target selection. DECADE quickly generates the optimal target that will produce the lowest score based on distance, hazards, and hole location.
Where to find Scott:
Website: https://web.birdiefire.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/decade_golf/
Twitter: http://twitter.com/scottfawcett
Optimizing Speed Training with Sasho MacKenzie | Season 4 Episode 25
In this episode, I continue my conversation with speed expert Sasho MacKenzie. We discuss ways to optimize speed training including:
How to work past plateaus
How to see results faster
Setting reasonable goals
Sasho’s Published Studies:
Read on PubMed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/?term=MacKenzie+SJ&cauthor_id=22900397
About The Stack System:
The Stack System provides dynamic programming directly from golf's leading biomechanist. Speed training secrets previously reserved for Tour players, now available to you.
Where to find Sasho:
Website: https://www.thestacksystem.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thestacksystem/
Twitter: http://twitter.com/SashoMacKenzie
The Problem of Distance with Scott Fawcett | Season 4 Episode 24
In this episode, I am once again joined by Scott Fawcett, creator of DECADE Golf. We discuss the “problem” with distance including:
Is distance actually a problem?
The solutions
The problem with bifurcation
Scott’s Book Recommendation:
The Art of Learning: An Inner Journey to Optimal Performance by Josh Waitzkin (https://www.amazon.com/Art-Learning-Journey-Optimal-Performance/dp/0743277465)
About DECADE Golf:
DECADE Golf has solved golf strategy by combining shot distribution patterns and PGA Tour scoring statistics. When Scott combined those two data sets he created a simple way to optimize target selection. DECADE quickly generates the optimal target that will produce the lowest score based on distance, hazards, and hole location.
Where to find Scott:
Website: https://web.birdiefire.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/decade_golf/
Twitter: http://twitter.com/scottfawcett
The Science of Overspeed Training with Sasho MacKenzie | Season 4 Episode 23
In this episode, I am joined by biomechanics and speed expert, Sasho MacKenzie. Sasho received his Ph.D. in kinesiology from the University of Saskatchewan and is currently a professor at St. Francis Xavier University in Canada. Sasho is also the co-creator of the speed training system, The Stack. In this episode, we discuss overspeed training including:
What it is
How it works
The Stack’s role
Sasho’s Published Studies:
Read on PubMed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/?term=MacKenzie+SJ&cauthor_id=22900397
About The Stack System:
The Stack System provides dynamic programming directly from golf's leading biomechanist. Speed training secrets previously reserved for Tour players, now available to you.
Where to find Sasho:
Website: https://www.thestacksystem.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thestacksystem/
Twitter: http://twitter.com/SashoMacKenzie
Shot Shaping with Scott Fawcett | Season 4 Episode 22
In this episode, I am joined by Scott Fawcett, creator of DECADE Golf. DECADE is a golf strategy system used by the best players in the world. In this episode, we discuss:
Why a single shot shape is better
Irons VS Driver
Optimizing your shot pattern
Scott’s Book Recommendation:
The Art of Learning: An Inner Journey to Optimal Performance by Josh Waitzkin (https://www.amazon.com/Art-Learning-Journey-Optimal-Performance/dp/0743277465)
About DECADE Golf:
DECADE Golf has solved golf strategy by combining shot distribution patterns and PGA Tour scoring statistics. When Scott combined those two data sets he created a simple way to optimize target selection. DECADE quickly generates the optimal target that will produce the lowest score based on distance, hazards, and hole location.
Where to find Scott:
Website: https://web.birdiefire.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/decade_golf/
Twitter: http://twitter.com/scottfawcett
Injury Prevention with Ken MacDonald | Season 4 Episode 21
In this episode, I conclude my conversation with physical trainer Ken MacDonald. In this episode, we discuss the science behind injury prevention and ways you can avoid injury including:
- Common injuries for golfers
- Injury signs to watch for
- The importance of TPI
Ken’s Book Recommendations:
Building a StoryBrand: Clarify Your Message So Customers Will Listen by Donald Miller (https://www.amazon.com/Building-StoryBrand-Clarify-Message-Customers/dp/0718033329)
Diagnosis and Treatment of Movement Impairment Syndromes by Shirley Sahrmann (https://www.amazon.com/Diagnosis-Treatment-Movement-Impairment-Syndromes/dp/0801672058)
Advances in Functional Training: Training Techniques for Coaches, Personal Trainers and Athletes by Michael Boyle (https://www.amazon.com/Advances-Functional-Training-Techniques-Personal/dp/1931046018)
Where to find Ken:
Website: https://lifetimeperformancepbg.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kennymac_lp/
Pre-round Routine with David MacKenzie | Season 4 Episode 20
In this episode, I conclude my conversation with mental game expert, David MacKenzie. David has been in the golf psychology industry for over ten years and has helped numerous players at the highest level. Rather than discuss the pre-shot routine, we discuss the pre-round routine and why the mental game is important for prospective collegiate golfers including:
- Pre-round routine
- Putting better mentally
- External Influences
- Mental Game for College
David’s Book Recommendation:
The Mindful Golfer: How to Lower Your Handicap While Raising Your Consciousness by Stephen Altschuler (https://www.amazon.com/Mindful-Golfer-Handicap-Raising-Consciousness/dp/1632207230)
David’s Book:
Golf State of Mind: How to Develop The Mental Game of A Champion (https://www.amazon.com/Golf-State-Mind-Develop-Champion/dp/B0BLG2Q31F)
David’s Ultimate Mental Game Training Program:
10 years of coaching and research into human performance has helped me create the best possible program to teach the mental game. In this program, you'll get 7 step-by-step modules designed to improve your mental game in a matter of weeks. Each module has an audio and text version and comes with weekly exercises to complete before moving to the next module.
Where to find David:
Website: https://golfstateofmind.com/
Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/golfstateofmind
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/golfstateofmind/
Golf Recovery and Mobility with Ken MacDonald | Season 4 Episode 19
In this episode, I am joined by Ken MacDonald. Ken is a TPI Level 3 certified physical trainer and a top 50 golf fitness professional by Golf Digest. He and I discuss ways to aid recovery after golf and the importance of mobility including:
- How to recover after a difficult round of golf
- Are ice baths helpful
- Is mobility important
- The science of stretching
Ken’s Book Recommendations:
Building a StoryBrand: Clarify Your Message So Customers Will Listen by Donald Miller (https://www.amazon.com/Building-StoryBrand-Clarify-Message-Customers/dp/0718033329)
Diagnosis and Treatment of Movement Impairment Syndromes by Shirley Sahrmann (https://www.amazon.com/Diagnosis-Treatment-Movement-Impairment-Syndromes/dp/0801672058)
Advances in Functional Training: Training Techniques for Coaches, Personal Trainers and Athletes by Michael Boyle (https://www.amazon.com/Advances-Functional-Training-Techniques-Personal/dp/1931046018)
Where to find Ken:
Website: https://lifetimeperformancepbg.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kennymac_lp/
Nutrition for Recovery with Benn Fineman | Season 4 Episode 18
In this episode, I conclude my conversation with nutrition expert Benn Fineman. We focus on how you can utilize nutrition to assist with sleep and recovery including:
- How food allows your body to recover
- How food can help you sleep better
- Why nutrition is important for recovery
Benn’s Book Recommendations:
The 4-Hour Body: An Uncommon Guide to Rapid Fat-Loss and Becoming Superhuman by Timothy Ferriss (https://www.amazon.com/4-Hour-Body-Uncommon-Incredible-Superhuman/dp/0307704610)
The Power of One More: The Ultimate Guide to Happiness and Success by Ed Mylett (https://www.amazon.com/Power-One-More-Ed-Mylett/dp/1119815363)
Relentless: From Good to Great to Unstoppable by Tim S. Grover (https://www.amazon.com/Relentless-Unstoppable-Tim-S-Grover/dp/1476714207)
Intuitive Roots Nutrition Coaching:
Adequately fueling your body is crucial for supporting the demands of your lifestyle and maintaining a healthy body composition. Using simple and achievable criteria put forth by the Precision Nutrition principles we can coach you to set yourself up for long-term success. Learn what healthy eating looks like, and how to make educated choices for meal selection and content.
Where to find Benn:
Website: https://intuitiveroots.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/intuitive_roots/
Pressure and Expectations with David MacKenzie | Season 4 Episode 17
In this episode, I am joined by mental game expert, David MacKenzie. David has been in the golf psychology industry for over ten years and has helped numerous players at the highest level. David and I discuss ways of dealing with pressure and expectations including:
- Expectation management
- The pressure to score
- Mental game practice
David’s Book Recommendation:
The Mindful Golfer: How to Lower Your Handicap While Raising Your Consciousness by Stephen Altschuler (https://www.amazon.com/Mindful-Golfer-Handicap-Raising-Consciousness/dp/1632207230)
David’s Book:
Golf State of Mind: How to Develop The Mental Game of A Champion (https://www.amazon.com/Golf-State-Mind-Develop-Champion/dp/B0BLG2Q31F)
David’s Ultimate Mental Game Training Program:
10 years of coaching and research into human performance has helped me create the best possible program to teach the mental game. In this program, you'll get 7 step-by-step modules designed to improve your mental game in a matter of weeks. Each module has an audio and text version and comes with weekly exercises to complete before moving to the next module.
Where to find David:
Website: https://golfstateofmind.com/
Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/golfstateofmind
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/golfstateofmind/
Avoid Muscle Soreness with Ken MacDonald | Season 4 Episode 16
In episode 16, I am joined by Ken MacDonald. Ken is a TPI Level 3 certified physical trainer and a top 50 golf fitness professional by Golf Digest. Ken currently coaches many elite players in South Florida with his gym, Lifetime Performance. Ken and I discuss ways to aid recovery after gym training including:
- How golf fitness has changed
- How to avoid soreness
- Forced Off-season
- Recovery technology
Ken’s Book Recommendations:
Building a StoryBrand: Clarify Your Message So Customers Will Listen by Donald Miller (https://www.amazon.com/Building-StoryBrand-Clarify-Message-Customers/dp/0718033329)
Diagnosis and Treatment of Movement Impairment Syndromes by Shirley Sahrmann (https://www.amazon.com/Diagnosis-Treatment-Movement-Impairment-Syndromes/dp/0801672058)
Advances in Functional Training: Training Techniques for Coaches, Personal Trainers and Athletes by Michael Boyle (https://www.amazon.com/Advances-Functional-Training-Techniques-Personal/dp/1931046018)
Where to find Ken:
Website: https://lifetimeperformancepbg.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kennymac_lp/
Balanced Training with Jeff Pelizzaro | Season 4 Episode 15
In this episode, I am joined by the founder of 18strong and host of the 18Strong podcast, Jeff Pelizzaro. Jeff is a top 50 golf fitness professional by Golf Digest, TPI level 2, and licensed physical therapist. Jeff and I discuss balancing gym training with golf practice including:
- How to continue to train in tournament season
- How to optimize the results from your workouts
- How to recover after your workouts
- Jeff’s app and how it can help you
This is the fifth episode of five with Jeff, if you want to view the full interview, you can do so at my website here: https://theperfectpar.com/episodes/
Jeff’s Book Recommendations:
Breath: The New Science of a Lost Art by James Nestor (https://www.amazon.com/Breath-New-Science-Lost-Art/dp/0735213615)
The Match: The Day the Game of Golf Changed Forever by Mark Frost (https://www.amazon.com/Match-Game-Golf-Changed-Forever/dp/1401309615)
The Compound Effect by Darren Hardy (https://www.amazon.com/Compound-Effect-Darren-Hardy/dp/159315724X)
Atomic Habits: An Easy & Proven Way to Build Good Habits & Break Bad Ones by James Clear (https://www.amazon.com/Atomic-Habits-Proven-Build-Break/dp/0735211299)
18 Strong Podcast:
Weekly episodes containing proven, practical advice, great stories, and strategies to inspire you to reach your golf and fitness goals.
18 Strong App:
Easy-to-follow, golf-specific training programs that help regular golfers get strong, fit, AND play their best permanently.
The 40 Day Forge:
Build Muscle with Nutrition with Benn Fineman | Season 4 Episode 14
In this episode, I continue my conversation with nutrition expert Benn Fineman. We move away from golf-specific nutrition and focus more on optimizing your gym performance. We discuss:
- How to structure your diet for muscle growth
- When to fuel your body around a workout
- How to reduce soreness after a workout with nutrition
Benn’s Book Recommendations:
The 4-Hour Body: An Uncommon Guide to Rapid Fat-Loss and Becoming Superhuman by Timothy Ferriss (https://www.amazon.com/4-Hour-Body-Uncommon-Incredible-Superhuman/dp/0307704610)
The Power of One More: The Ultimate Guide to Happiness and Success by Ed Mylett (https://www.amazon.com/Power-One-More-Ed-Mylett/dp/1119815363)
Relentless: From Good to Great to Unstoppable by Tim S. Grover (https://www.amazon.com/Relentless-Unstoppable-Tim-S-Grover/dp/1476714207)
Intuitive Roots Nutrition Coaching:
Adequately fueling your body is crucial for supporting the demands of your lifestyle and maintaining a healthy body composition. Using simple and achievable criteria put forth by the Precision Nutrition principles we can coach you to set yourself up for long-term success. Learn what healthy eating looks like, and how to make educated choices for meal selection and content.
Where to find Benn:
Website: https://intuitiveroots.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/intuitive_roots/
Measuring the Mental Game with David MacKenzie | Season 4 Episode 13
In this episode, I am joined by mental game expert, David MacKenzie. David has been in the golf psychology industry for over ten years and has helped numerous players at the highest level. David and I discuss what is required to improve your mental game along with ways of measuring it including:
- What others will think
- Dealing with pressure as you improve
- Personality type and the mental game
- Quantifying the mental game
David’s Book Recommendation:
The Mindful Golfer: How to Lower Your Handicap While Raising Your Consciousness by Stephen Altschuler (https://www.amazon.com/Mindful-Golfer-Handicap-Raising-Consciousness/dp/1632207230)
David’s Book:
Golf State of Mind: How to Develop The Mental Game of A Champion (https://www.amazon.com/Golf-State-Mind-Develop-Champion/dp/B0BLG2Q31F)
David’s Ultimate Mental Game Training Program:
10 years of coaching and research into human performance has helped me create the best possible program to teach the mental game. In this program, you'll get 7 step-by-step modules designed to improve your mental game in a matter of weeks. Each module has an audio and text version and comes with weekly exercises to complete before moving to the next module.
Where to find David:
Website: https://golfstateofmind.com/
Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/golfstateofmind
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/golfstateofmind/
Speed and Endurance with Jeff Pelizzaro | Season 4 Episode 12
In this episode, I am joined by the founder of 18strong and host of the 18Strong podcast, Jeff Pelizzaro. Jeff is a top 50 golf fitness professional by Golf Digest, TPI level 2, and licensced physical therapist. Jeff and I discuss speed and endurance training for golf including:
- How to convert your strength training into swing speed
- How to train specifically for speed
- Balancing strength and speed training
- How to train for golf endurance
This is the fourth episode of five with Jeff, if you want to view the full interview, you can do so at my website here: https://theperfectpar.com/episodes/
Jeff’s Book Recommendations:
Breath: The New Science of a Lost Art by James Nestor (https://www.amazon.com/Breath-New-Science-Lost-Art/dp/0735213615)
The Match: The Day the Game of Golf Changed Forever by Mark Frost (https://www.amazon.com/Match-Game-Golf-Changed-Forever/dp/1401309615)
The Compound Effect by Darren Hardy (https://www.amazon.com/Compound-Effect-Darren-Hardy/dp/159315724X)
Atomic Habits: An Easy & Proven Way to Build Good Habits & Break Bad Ones by James Clear (https://www.amazon.com/Atomic-Habits-Proven-Build-Break/dp/0735211299)
18 Strong Podcast:
Weekly episodes containing proven, practical advice, great stories and strategies to inspire you to reach your golf and fitness goals.
18 Strong App:
Easy-to-follow, golf-specific training programs that help regular golfers get strong, fit, AND play their best, permanently.
The 40 Day Forge:
https://18strong.com/theforge/
Where to find Jeff:
Website: https://18strong.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/18strong_/
What to Eat and When with Benn Fineman | Season 4 Episode 11
In this episode, I continue my conversation with nutrition expert Benn Fineman. Using the information we discussed in prior episodes, Benn provides an ideal nutrition plan for a day of performance. We discuss:
- What you should be eating before an event
- Good foods to eat during a tournament
- How to eat clean while traveling
Benn’s Book Recommendations:
The 4-Hour Body: An Uncommon Guide to Rapid Fat-Loss and Becoming Superhuman by Timothy Ferriss (https://www.amazon.com/4-Hour-Body-Uncommon-Incredible-Superhuman/dp/0307704610)
The Power of One More: The Ultimate Guide to Happiness and Success by Ed Mylett (https://www.amazon.com/Power-One-More-Ed-Mylett/dp/1119815363)
Relentless: From Good to Great to Unstoppable by Tim S. Grover (https://www.amazon.com/Relentless-Unstoppable-Tim-S-Grover/dp/1476714207)
Intuitive Roots Nutrition Coaching:
Adequately fueling your body is crucial for supporting the demands of your lifestyle and maintaining a healthy body composition. Using simple and achievable criteria put forth by the Precision Nutrition principles we can coach you to set yourself up for long-term success. Learn what healthy eating looks like, and how to make educated choices for meal selection and content.
Where to find Benn:
Website: https://intuitiveroots.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/intuitive_roots/
The Modern Mental Game with David MacKenzie | Season 4 Episode 10
In this episode, I am joined by mental game expert, David MacKenzie. David has been in the golf psychology industry for over ten years and has helped numerous players at the highest level. David and I discuss the modern mental game including:
- How golf psychology has changed
- What you can learn from tour pros
- Adversity on the golf course
- Meditation
David’s Book Recommendation:
The Mindful Golfer: How to Lower Your Handicap While Raising Your Consciousness by Stephen Altschuler (https://www.amazon.com/Mindful-Golfer-Handicap-Raising-Consciousness/dp/1632207230)
David’s Book:
Golf State of Mind: How to Develop The Mental Game of A Champion (https://www.amazon.com/Golf-State-Mind-Develop-Champion/dp/B0BLG2Q31F)
David’s Ultimate Mental Game Training Program:
10 years of coaching and research into human performance has helped me create the best possible program to teach the mental game. In this program, you'll get 7 step-by-step modules designed to improve your mental game in a matter of weeks. Each module has an audio and text version and comes with weekly exercises to complete before moving to the next module.
Where to find David:
Website: https://golfstateofmind.com/
Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/golfstateofmind
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/golfstateofmind/
Muscle Mass VS Strength with Jeff Pelizzaro | Season 4 Episode 9
In this episode, I am joined by the founder of 18strong and host of the 18Strong podcast, Jeff Pelizzaro. Jeff is a top 50 golf fitness professional by Golf Digest, TPI level 2, and licensced physical therapist. Jeff and I discuss the differences between muscle mass and strength including:
- How closely related is muscle mass to strength
- How to train for muscle growth compared to strength
- Should you focus on strength or hypertrophy
- The importance of planning
This is the third episode of five with Jeff, if you want to view the full interview, you can do so at my website here: https://theperfectpar.com/episodes/
Jeff’s Book Recommendations:
Breath: The New Science of a Lost Art by James Nestor (https://www.amazon.com/Breath-New-Science-Lost-Art/dp/0735213615)
The Match: The Day the Game of Golf Changed Forever by Mark Frost (https://www.amazon.com/Match-Game-Golf-Changed-Forever/dp/1401309615)
The Compound Effect by Darren Hardy (https://www.amazon.com/Compound-Effect-Darren-Hardy/dp/159315724X)
Atomic Habits: An Easy & Proven Way to Build Good Habits & Break Bad Ones by James Clear (https://www.amazon.com/Atomic-Habits-Proven-Build-Break/dp/0735211299)
18 Strong Podcast:
Weekly episodes containing proven, practical advice, great stories and strategies to inspire you to reach your golf and fitness goals.
18 Strong App:
Easy-to-follow, golf-specific training programs that help regular golfers get strong, fit, AND play their best, permanently.
The 40 Day Forge:
https://18strong.com/theforge/
Where to find Jeff:
Website: https://18strong.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/18strong_/
Hydration and Electrolytes with Benn Fineman | Season 4 Episode 8
In this episode, I continue my conversation with nutrition expert Benn Fineman. Benn and I discuss something many would consider simple, hydration. However, it is far from simple, and we discuss the essentials, including:
- The importance of hydration
- Electrolytes
- How to measure your hydration
Benn’s Book Recommendations:
The 4-Hour Body: An Uncommon Guide to Rapid Fat-Loss and Becoming Superhuman by Timothy Ferriss (https://www.amazon.com/4-Hour-Body-Uncommon-Incredible-Superhuman/dp/0307704610)
The Power of One More: The Ultimate Guide to Happiness and Success by Ed Mylett (https://www.amazon.com/Power-One-More-Ed-Mylett/dp/1119815363)
Relentless: From Good to Great to Unstoppable by Tim S. Grover (https://www.amazon.com/Relentless-Unstoppable-Tim-S-Grover/dp/1476714207)
Intuitive Roots Nutrition Coaching:
Adequately fueling your body is crucial for supporting the demands of your lifestyle and maintaining a healthy body composition. Using simple and achievable criteria put forth by the Precision Nutrition principles we can coach you to set yourself up for long-term success. Learn what healthy eating looks like, and how to make educated choices for meal selection and content.
Where to find Benn:
Website: https://intuitiveroots.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/intuitive_roots/
Progressing in The Gym with Jeff Pelizzaro | Season 4 Episode 7
In this episode, I am joined by the founder of 18strong and host of the 18Strong podcast, Jeff Pelizzaro. Jeff is a top 50 golf fitness professional by Golf Digest, TPI level 2, and licensced physical therapist. Jeff and I discuss how you should be progressing in the gym including:
- How can you measure progress
- When to increase weight
- Ideal rep/set ranges
- Common muscle imbalances
This is the second episode of five with Jeff, if you want to view the full interview, you can do so at my website here: https://theperfectpar.com/episodes/
Jeff’s Book Recommendations:
Breath: The New Science of a Lost Art by James Nestor (https://www.amazon.com/Breath-New-Science-Lost-Art/dp/0735213615)
The Match: The Day the Game of Golf Changed Forever by Mark Frost (https://www.amazon.com/Match-Game-Golf-Changed-Forever/dp/1401309615)
The Compound Effect by Darren Hardy (https://www.amazon.com/Compound-Effect-Darren-Hardy/dp/159315724X)
Atomic Habits: An Easy & Proven Way to Build Good Habits & Break Bad Ones by James Clear (https://www.amazon.com/Atomic-Habits-Proven-Build-Break/dp/0735211299)
18 Strong Podcast:
Weekly episodes containing proven, practical advice, great stories and strategies to inspire you to reach your golf and fitness goals.
18 Strong App:
Easy-to-follow, golf-specific training programs that help regular golfers get strong, fit, AND play their best, permanently.
The 40 Day Forge:
https://18strong.com/theforge/
Where to find Jeff:
Website: https://18strong.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/18strong_/
Flow with Rick Sessinghaus | Season 4 Episode 6
In this episode, I am joined by Rick Sessinghaus, flow expert and Collin Morrikowa’s long-time golf coach. In this episode, we discuss:
- Rick’s three fundamentals of the mental game
- How to access glow state
- FlowCode Golf
- Rick’s Book Recomendations
This is the third episode of three with Rick, if you want to view the full interview, you can do so at my website here: https://theperfectpar.com/episodes/
Rick’s Book Recommendations:
Breaking The Habit of Being Yourself: How to Lose Your Mind and Create a New One by Dr. Joe Dispenza (https://www.amazon.com/Breaking-Habit-Being-Yourself-Create/dp/1401938094)
The Rise of Superman: Decoding the Science of Ultimate Human Performance by Steven Kotler (https://www.amazon.com/Rise-Superman-Decoding-Ultimate-Performance-ebook/dp/B00BW54XVO)
Rick’s Book:
Golf: The Ultimate Mind Game (https://www.amazon.com/Golf-Ultimate-Mind-Rick-Sessinghaus/dp/1599320304)
About FlowCode Golf:
FlowCode® Golf Academy is world’s leading golf performance system, which has been created with the intention to share the latest know how and golf mental game secrets from top professional golf players on how to achieve the state of flow in the game of golf in effective and straightforward way.
Where to find Rick:
Website: https://www.ricksessinghaus.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ricksessinghaus/
Twitter: http://twitter.com/RickSessinghaus
Macronutrients and Supplementation with Benn Fineman | Season 4 Episode 5
In this episode, I continue my conversation with nutrition expert Benn Fineman. Benn and I discuss macro and micronutrients in addition to appropriate supplementation for athletes including:
- What is a good macronutrient split
- Importance of micronutrients
- Good supplements for golfers
Benn’s Book Recommendations:
The 4-Hour Body: An Uncommon Guide to Rapid Fat-Loss and Becoming Superhuman by Timothy Ferriss (https://www.amazon.com/4-Hour-Body-Uncommon-Incredible-Superhuman/dp/0307704610)
The Power of One More: The Ultimate Guide to Happiness and Success by Ed Mylett (https://www.amazon.com/Power-One-More-Ed-Mylett/dp/1119815363)
Relentless: From Good to Great to Unstoppable by Tim S. Grover (https://www.amazon.com/Relentless-Unstoppable-Tim-S-Grover/dp/1476714207)
Intuitive Roots Nutrition Coaching:
Adequately fueling your body is crucial for supporting the demands of your lifestyle and maintaining a healthy body composition. Using simple and achievable criteria put forth by the Precision Nutrition principles we can coach you to set yourself up for long-term success. Learn what healthy eating looks like, and how to make educated choices for meal selection and content.
Where to find Benn:
Website: https://intuitiveroots.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/intuitive_roots/
The Fundamentals of Golf Training with Jeff Pelizzaro | Season 4 Episode 4
In this episode, I am joined by the founder of 18strong and host of the 18Strong podcast, Jeff Pelizzaro. Jeff is a top 50 golf fitness professional by Golf Digest, TPI level 2, and licensced physical therapist. Jeff and I discuss the fundamentals of golf training including:
- Why you should train for golf
- Common misconceptions
- Jeff’s favorite exercises
- Exercises you should avoid as a golfer
This is the first episode of five with Jeff, if you want to view the full interview, you can do so at my website here: https://theperfectpar.com/episodes/
Jeff’s Book Recommendations:
Breath: The New Science of a Lost Art by James Nestor (https://www.amazon.com/Breath-New-Science-Lost-Art/dp/0735213615)
The Match: The Day the Game of Golf Changed Forever by Mark Frost (https://www.amazon.com/Match-Game-Golf-Changed-Forever/dp/1401309615)
The Compound Effect by Darren Hardy (https://www.amazon.com/Compound-Effect-Darren-Hardy/dp/159315724X)
Atomic Habits: An Easy & Proven Way to Build Good Habits & Break Bad Ones by James Clear (https://www.amazon.com/Atomic-Habits-Proven-Build-Break/dp/0735211299)
18 Strong Podcast:
Weekly episodes containing proven, practical advice, great stories and strategies to inspire you to reach your golf and fitness goals.
18 Strong App:
Easy-to-follow, golf-specific training programs that help regular golfers get strong, fit, AND play their best, permanently.
The 40 Day Forge:
https://18strong.com/theforge/
Where to find Jeff:
Website: https://18strong.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/18strong_/
Development and Practice with Rick Sessinghaus | Season 4 Episode 3
In this episode, I am joined by Rick Sessinghaus, flow expert and Collin Morrikowa’s long-time golf coach. In this episode, we discuss:
- Setting and defining goals
- How to ACTUALLY practice
- Balancing practice on the golf course and on the range
- Professional VS amateur practice
This is episode two of three with Rick, if you want to view the full interview now, you can do so at my website here: https://theperfectpar.com/episodes/
Rick’s Book Recommendations:
Breaking The Habit of Being Yourself: How to Lose Your Mind and Create a New One by Dr. Joe Dispenza (https://www.amazon.com/Breaking-Habit-Being-Yourself-Create/dp/1401938094)
The Rise of Superman: Decoding the Science of Ultimate Human Performance by Steven Kotler (https://www.amazon.com/Rise-Superman-Decoding-Ultimate-Performance-ebook/dp/B00BW54XVO)
Rick’s Book:
Golf: The Ultimate Mind Game (https://www.amazon.com/Golf-Ultimate-Mind-Rick-Sessinghaus/dp/1599320304)
About FlowCode Golf:
FlowCode® Golf Academy is world’s leading golf performance system, which has been created with the intention to share the latest know how and golf mental game secrets from top professional golf players on how to achieve the state of flow in the game of golf in effective and straightforward way.
Where to find Rick:
Website: https://www.ricksessinghaus.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ricksessinghaus/
Twitter: http://twitter.com/RickSessinghaus
Nutrition Fundamentals with Benn Fineman | Season 4 Episode 2
For the second episode of season four, I am joined by nutrition expert, Benn Fineman. Benn has worked in the fitness industry for over twelve years and runs a wellness company called Intuitive Roots. Benn and I discuss the fundamentals of nutrition including:
- Where calories come from
- What are clean foods
- How to structure your nutrition
Benn’s Book Recommendations:
The 4-Hour Body: An Uncommon Guide to Rapid Fat-Loss and Becoming Superhuman by Timothy Ferriss (https://www.amazon.com/4-Hour-Body-Uncommon-Incredible-Superhuman/dp/0307704610)
The Power of One More: The Ultimate Guide to Happiness and Success by Ed Mylett (https://www.amazon.com/Power-One-More-Ed-Mylett/dp/1119815363)
Relentless: From Good to Great to Unstoppable by Tim S. Grover (https://www.amazon.com/Relentless-Unstoppable-Tim-S-Grover/dp/1476714207)
Intuitive Roots Nutrition Coaching:
Adequately fueling your body is crucial for supporting the demands of your lifestyle and maintaining a healthy body composition. Using simple and achievable criteria put forth by the Precision Nutrition principles we can coach you to set yourself up for long-term success. Learn what healthy eating looks like, and how to make educated choices for meal selection and content.
Where to find Benn:
Website: https://intuitiveroots.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/intuitive_roots/
Elite Coaching with Rick Sessinghaus | Season 4 Episode 1
In this episode, I am joined by Rick Sessinghaus, flow expert and Collin Morrikowa’s long-time golf coach. In this episode, we discuss:
- How to find the right coach for YOU
- Maintaining a healthy coaching relationship
- Technology in coaching
- How personality type impacts coaching
This is episode one of three with Rick, if you want to view the full-interview now, you can do so at my website here: https://theperfectpar.com/episodes/
Rick’s Book Recommendations:
Breaking The Habit of Being Yourself: How to Lose Your Mind and Create a New One by Dr. Joe Dispenza (https://www.amazon.com/Breaking-Habit-Being-Yourself-Create/dp/1401938094)
The Rise of Superman: Decoding the Science of Ultimate Human Performance by Steven Kotler (https://www.amazon.com/Rise-Superman-Decoding-Ultimate-Performance-ebook/dp/B00BW54XVO)
Rick’s Book:
Golf: The Ultimate Mind Game (https://www.amazon.com/Golf-Ultimate-Mind-Rick-Sessinghaus/dp/1599320304)
About FlowCode Golf:
FlowCode® Golf Academy is world’s leading golf performance system, which has been created with the intention to share the latest know how and golf mental game secrets from top professional golf players on how to achieve the state of flow in the game of golf in effective and straightforward way.
Where to find Rick:
Website: https://www.ricksessinghaus.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ricksessinghaus/
Twitter: http://twitter.com/RickSessinghaus
Season 4 Intro, Updates, and Changes
Welcome to season 4 of the podcast! Thank you to all who listen, and I hope you find this podcast helpful! I have made a few substantial changes to the podcast this year, and this episode highlights these changes. The first episode of season 4 releases next Tuesday!
Consistency is a Myth with Bhrett McCabe | Season 3 Episode 7
In this episode, I am joined by world-renowned sports psychologist, Bhrett McCabe. Bhrett joined me last season on episode six where we discussed general topics around the mental game.
This year we discuss his new book Break Free From Suckville, his controversial claim that "consistency is a myth", gaining confidence on the course, and much more!
You can find more about Bhrett at his website here, Instagram here, Twitter here, or find his new book here.
Club Fitting with Stephen Hodge | Season 3 Episode 6
In this episode, I am joined by the founder of Summit Golf Nashville, Stephen Hodge. Stephen is a master club fitter and builder. He and I discuss the evolution of club fitting, his journey to the role, his fitting process, and the benefits of clubs not made by OEMs. Additionally, we discuss Tiger's effect on equipment and Bryson's peculiar one-length irons.
You can find out more about Stephen at his website here!
Golf Positivity with Evan Singer | Season 3 Episode 5
In this episode, I am joined by co-host of The Par Train Podcast, Evan Singer.
We discuss Evan's journey through golf and how he became an influencer for positivity. In this episode, you can find numerous tips that will help you make your bad round of golf much more enjoyable.
You can find The Par Train Podcast here, his Twitter here, and his Instagram here.
Checking In with David Ford | Season 3 Episode 4
In this episode, I am joined by former #1 ranked junior golfer and current collegiate player, David Ford. If you have listened to the podcast for a long time, you will remember David joined me back in season 1.
This season, he is back to discuss his final years of junior golf, the complex world of AJGA, and his first season as a collegiate golfer.
David gives his best advice for all golfers looking to improve and answers a key question... Is he planning on going pro?
Follow David on Instagram here.
What It Takes to Run a Junior Golf Tour with Rob Cherry | Season 3 Episode 3
In this episode, I am joined by the Director of Tournament Operations for the Tennessee Golf Foundation, Rob Cherry. Rob helps facilitate many different junior events in Tennessee including the Sneds Tour, TN Junior Cup, and Tennessee Middle School Golf Association (TMSGA).
We discuss how he came to this role, what his day-to-day duties are, and behind the scenes of running a junior golf tour.
You can find out more about TN Golf Foundation here.
Golf Speed Training with Mike Carroll | Season 3 Episode 2
In this episode, I am joined by golf fitness trainer, Mike Carroll. We discuss how Mike got into fitness training and why he specialized in golf.
Additionally, we discuss things you can do on and off the golf course to improve your swing speed. The next generation of golf will be shaped by speed, so get ahead now, or be behind forever.
Mike offers all golfers a chance to level up their speed through his app, Fit For Golf, which you can find here. (Not available in the app store).
Golf Recruiting with Bo Maradik | Season 3 Episode 1
Welcome to Season 3! I want to first thank all of you for listening to this podcast. I really enjoy recording them, and I hope you are able to enjoy them as well.
In this episode, I am joined by recent Georgetown University commit, Bo Maradik. Bo joined me last season on episode five where we talked about his goals and overall approach to junior golf.
This season, we talk about his 2021 season, golf goals, his junior golf recap, and what he did to get recruited by a top D1 school.
If you are a junior golfer planning to play college golf, this episode is a must-listen!
How Your Personality Type Affects Your Golf Game With Lucas Herring | Season 2 Episode 21
I'm back!
After a very long, unintended break, I am finally back with this episode. I am joined by Lucas Herring, and we discuss how your personality type affects the way you play golf. We use the Myers-Briggs Personality Test as the basis for this episode, and you can find your type at 16personalities.com.
We talk about how you can understand your personality type, and how you can utilize this knowledge to play better and more enjoyable golf.
Founder of The Golf Performance Center & Junior Golf Hub, Roger Knick | Season 2 Episode 20
In this episode, I am joined by entrepreneur, golf coach, and former professional baseball player, Roger Knick. Roger is the founder of The Golf Performance Center and Junior Golf Hub, both are revolutionary businesses within the junior golf world. We talk about the struggles of being an entrepreneur, Roger's Five Elements to Success, as well as what he has done to get to where he is.
Maverick McNealy | Season 2 Episode 19
In this episode, I am joined by PGA Tour Player, Maverick McNealy. We discuss his interesting path to the PGA Tour, his junior and collegiate career, and what his life is like on the tour.
Nutrition with Benn Fineman | Season 2 Episode 18
Benn Fineman is a fitness instructor and nutrition expert based out of Pennsylvania.
Benn started his fitness career in 2009 mainly working with corporate programs. He always enjoys working with various gyms and small fitness businesses. In 2015, Benn started his own fitness business called Intuitive Roots, where he helps people build the body, grow the mind, and pursue their passions.
Benn currently specializes in functional strength training but began working in nutrition around four years ago. He is currently certified by Precision Nutrition.
You can find him on Instagram here and his website here.
PGA Tour Player Doc Redman | Season 2 Episode 17
In this episode, I am joined by PGA Tour player and former Clemson collegiate player, Doc Redman. We talk about his journey through junior golf, college golf, and professional golf. Doc gives out some incredible inside-the-ropes insights and tips that are helpful for every golfer!
Inside the Ropes with Korn Ferry Tour Player James Nicholas | Season 2 Episode 16
In this episode, I am joined by Korn Ferry Tour player, James Nicholas. We discuss the unknowns of professional golf along with highlighting his journey from a teenager to a tour pro. If you want inside knowledge and tips from one of the best golfers in the world, this episode is for you!
What's New with Asher Katz | Season 2 Episode 15
In this episode, I am joined by junior golf star, Asher Katz. We talk about all things golf including equipment, course strategy, short game, tournaments, and more!
Simplicity with Steven Yellin | Episode 14 Season 2
In this episode, I am joined by the creator of the Fluid Motion Factor program and the book Simplicity, Steven Yellin. The Fluid Motion Factor program helps athletes access the grooved motion and skills they already possess in competition. We discuss how this program works, how it applies to golf, and other golf psychology tips to improve your golf game.
Golf Training with Jillian Keeler | Season 2 Episode 13
I am joined by athletic trainer, Jillian Keeler. She is currently ELDOA and TPI Level 2 certified.
We discuss all things related to training for golf including common deficiencies, ELDOA and GPS stretches, TPI Screenings, and more!
If you want to reduce your risk of injury and improve your swing speed, this episode is for you!