The Measured Golf Podcast – Details, episodes & analysis

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Chasing scratch sounds noble until it blinds us to how golfers truly improve. We open the hood on handicaps—what they actually measure, why differentials are about potential rather than averages, and how course rating, slope, and conditions can make an 80 a great round for a scratch player on a brutal track. The math is fine; the misuse isn’t. When scorecards include gimmes and casual OB drops, indexes drift into vanity or inflate into sandbagging, and suddenly net leaderboards look like fantasy.

Instead of treating a single number like a personality test, we pivot to skills you can train. We lay out four performance buckets—off the tee, approach play, around the green, and putting—and give concrete benchmarks. Want to be a reliable single digit? Aim for roughly 50 percent fairways and greens, 50 percent scrambling, and about 31 putts. Dreaming of scratch? Push those rates toward 60 percent with around 30 putts. These targets reveal where to spend your practice time and why driver fixes alone won’t erase a double-digit gap. We even walk through a junior pounding 118 mph drives who still loses strokes where it counts: wedges and the flatstick.

Integrity is the hinge that makes the system work. We talk about putting everything out, honoring stroke and distance, avoiding on-the-fly “adjustments,” and self-policing within your group to protect events and keep competition fun. If you care about getting better, measure what matters, play by the rules, and let the numbers tell the truth. Subscribe for more grounded coaching insights, drop a comment on our Measured Golf YouTube channel, and if you want personalized help, visit measuredgolf.com to explore virtual coaching. Then tell us: which bucket will you attack first this season?

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Ever take lessons, swing “better,” and still shoot the same scores? We unpack why so many fixes fade under pressure and how to build change that sticks. Michael shares a candid client story that redefines what makes a “great coach,” then dives into the core problem: chasing the club instead of coaching the human moving it. You’ll hear why discomfort is essential to motor learning, how implicit practice away from the ball builds durable patterns, and why timing good shots isn’t the same as sequencing a reliable swing.

We get specific about measurement. Baselines, force plates, and launch monitor data are more than gadgets; they keep both coach and player honest. Michael explains how to set targets for pressure, path, and delivery, then use test-train-retest loops to confirm that a pattern actually changed—not just the appearance of the swing. He also tackles the incentives that keep coaching transactional, and makes the case for fiduciary or transformational coaching that puts results and referrals ahead of ego. If your coach can’t show their work, you’re guessing.

There’s practical guidance too: when to practice without a ball, how to choose specialists for putting and wedges, and what a modern session should include. We break down sequencing for consistency and speed, connect body movement to club forces, and show how better concepts make “limited mobility” less limiting. The payoff is confidence on uneven lies and under stress, with a swing you understand and can self-correct.

If you’re ready to move beyond tips and into measurable progress, this conversation is your map. Subscribe, share with a golf friend who’s stuck, and leave a review with the one change you plan to try next.

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Unlock the secrets to a better golf game with insights from Dr. Joe LaCaze, a Navy SEAL veteran and renowned expert in human body mechanics. Tune in as we journey through the evolution of the golf swing, understanding the pivotal role of body mechanics, and explore the groundbreaking Rotex device. Learn how Joe's innovative approach has simplified techniques that once seemed complex, making it easier for golfers at any level to enhance their performance.

Through engaging discussions, we highlight the importance of effective communication in education and coaching, drawing parallels between Navy SEAL training and academic mentorship. Discover how hands-on experience and learning from world-class experts can lead to rapid skill acquisition and deeper comprehension. We stress the need for clear and accessible communication to simplify complex concepts, making them understandable and actionable for learners of all ages.

Dive into the fascinating origins of the Rotex device, born from Joe's personal battles with severe back pain and injuries. From a late-night breakthrough with a Frisbee to a revolutionary tool in competitive sports, the Rotex story is a testament to innovation and perseverance. We'll also cover essential topics like optimizing performance through sleep and breathing, the role of muscular activation, and the significance of proper pelvic alignment. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting, this episode is packed with valuable insights to elevate your game and improve your physical well-being.

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Unlock the secrets behind hitting a golf ball farther than ever before with our special guest, six-time world champion Jason Zubak, famously known as Golfzilla. Jason's journey from a career in pharmacy to dominating the long drive circuit is nothing short of inspiring. We pull back the curtain on his early experiences and natural talent for power movements, as well as dissect the role of cutting-edge technologies like ground reaction forces that have revolutionized the sport.

This episode goes beyond just the mechanics of a powerful golf swing. We dive into the complexities of using advanced tools like force plates and kinematic data to make meaningful improvements in performance. You'll hear firsthand accounts of working with top golfers, including Padraig Harrington, and the trials of translating better data into better performance. We shed light on how misconceptions about the golf swing can lead to suboptimal performance and how understanding face-to-path relationships and kinematic sequencing can elevate your game.

But that's not all—equipment optimization is also on the table. We explore the latest in shaft technology, innovative fitting techniques, and the impact of personalized coaching strategies. Hear anecdotes from long drive champions Kyle Berkshire and Jamie Sadlowski, and insights from pros like Mike Weir and Victor Hovland. Whether you're interested in tweaking your equipment for better performance or understanding the distinct swings required for different aspects of golf, this episode offers a comprehensive guide to improving your golf game from every angle.

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Can terrain transform a good golf course into a great one? Join us as we unravel this mystery with the acclaimed golf course architect Mike DeVries. Mike brings his profound expertise to the table, discussing "reactionary architecture" and how the unique characteristics of sites from St. Andrews to mountainous terrains influence the design process. We explore how creating enjoyable yet challenging courses involves understanding a golf course's nuances, often requiring close collaboration with superintendents. 

Embark on a journey to breathtaking golf destinations such as Cape Wickham and Arcadia Bluffs. Discover the artistic challenges of designing coastal courses that harmonize with their natural surroundings and the emotional impact of these destinations on golfers. We also delve into the dynamics between private and public courses, celebrating notable restoration projects and the vibrant golfing community in Michigan. Mike draws compelling parallels between golf course design and sculpture, emphasizing the collaborative spirit needed to honor the land and enhance the game. Tune in to this engaging episode filled with expert insights and inspiring stories from the world of golf course design.

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Discover the secrets to mastering your short game with Parker McLaughlin, the Short Game Chef, in our latest episode. Parker's transition from a victorious playing career—highlighted by his win at the 2008 Reno Tahoe Open—to becoming a renowned short game coach brings a treasure trove of insights. With a communication style shaped by his athletic family background, Parker simplifies the complexities of wedge play and short game mastery, making them accessible to all golfers. Expect to learn how mastering these techniques can dramatically lower your scores.

In our conversation, Parker breaks down the intricacies of wedge play, sharing practical tips for achieving softer shots with controlled spin and effectively using the club's bounce. By examining the techniques of elite golfers like Dustin Johnson and Davis Love, Parker illustrates how different methods can lead to more consistent and controlled shots. We also tackle common misconceptions and provide actionable advice to help you identify and correct excessive ball speed for better accuracy and control. Whether you're struggling with chipping, pitching, or bunker shots, Parker's insights are invaluable.

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Prepare to be enthralled as James Day, a pivotal personality in London's golf scene, walks us through the fascinating world of Urban Golf with its perfect marriage of vintage aesthetics and cutting-edge simulation technology. Discover the art of selecting golf equipment that not only optimizes your game but also resonates with your soul, as James advocates for an authentic, self-empowered approach to golf. Throughout the episode, we challenge industry norms, exploring the emotional landscape of the sport and how personal ownership over one's golfing journey trumps the seductive allure of quick technological fixes.

James Day's insights illuminate the complexities of golf club fitting, the nuanced dance between technology and skill, and the potential pitfalls of an industry often more focused on selling than on genuine performance enhancement. We delve into how the Shaft Max system's 15-year legacy offers a detailed understanding of shaft dynamics, and how a unified approach to golf mechanics can revolutionize the game. Amidst an industry rife with confusing marketing tactics and data manipulation, this conversation serves as a beacon for those seeking clarity and a deeper appreciation of the game's heritage and mechanics.

As we wrap up, we celebrate the shifting culture of golf, where younger players are increasingly skeptical of grandiose marketing claims and are rediscovering the charm of vintage and custom clubs. Sharing personal anecdotes about club selections that enrich the joy of the game, James and I reflect on how the right equipment can intuitively guide a golfer towards improvement, emphasizing that sometimes, the most effective training aids are the clubs that have been with us all along. Whether you are a seasoned pro or a newcomer to the green, this episode is a masterclass in finding balance, enjoyment, and performance on the course.

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Discover the allure of tradition blending with innovation as Todd Demsey from Todd Demsey Golf joins us to unravel the timeless beauty of persimmon golf clubs. Our conversation meanders through the craftsmanship of these classic tools and their resurgence in a sport dominated by power-hitters and metal woods. Feel the passion as we venture into the nostalgia of brands like Powerbilt, and reflect on a strategic shift in golf where finesse is often overshadowed by brute force. Todd's insights will leave you contemplating the finesse of a well-placed drive, the art of club making, and the pure joy of playing a game that's as much about history as it is about the scorecard.

As the fairways of tradition meet the tee boxes of modernity, we cast a light on the cultural shift within golf. From the communal charm of your local Hill Park to the social buzz of Ocean Side, we celebrate the sport's return to its more accessible roots. We recognize the growing appeal of simpler times while acknowledging the invigorating pulse of contemporary twists like Topgolf. Stories of personal resilience, the camaraderie of a round with minimal clubs, and the joy of a casual wedge choice underscore the diverse paths to fulfillment found within the world of golf.

Finally, we embrace the harmony between the artisanal heritage of the game and the precision technology of today. Delve into how data and tools like launch monitors and force plates can refine your swing and safeguard your health, all without losing the essence of golf. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a weekend warrior, join us as we explore how technology and expert coaching can elevate your game, ensuring every swing you take is one step closer to that perfect round.

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Embark on an enlightening exploration of the greens with Michael Dutro, joined by the esteemed Salima Musani, former pro golfer and the current head coach of Team Canada's women's team. In a narrative woven with personal trials and victories, Salima opens up about her transformative journey from a competitive player to a coach with a mission. Her tale is not just about golf swings and tournament wins; it's a story that goes beyond the fairways, delving into the heart of resilience and the art of nurturing future champions.

As we tee off into the technological revolution within golf, we debate the pros and cons of data's dominance in shaping athletes. I share firsthand insights from the PGA show, reflecting on how modern tools are sculpting the game and whether they're restricting the creative spark that is essential to the sport. Together with Salima, we ponder the balance of embracing tech to refine skills while preserving the raw, intuitive essence that makes each golfer unique. Listen in for a candid discussion on the delicate dance between embracing innovation and maintaining the authentic spirit of the sport.

Rounding out our discussion, we take a mental approach to the game, considering the strategies that separate the casual player from the seasoned pro. Salima and I navigate through the psychological landscapes of golf, from the quiet focus needed to outmaneuver challenges to the discipline young minds acquire from this age-old game. Whether you're a golfer seeking a competitive edge or simply a fan of the game, join us as we connect the dots between mental agility, strategic thinking, and the pursuit of excellence both on the course and in life.

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Have you ever peered into the mind of a coach who shapes Ivy League scholars into golfing masters? Kevin Rhodes, Harvard University's men's head golf coach, joins us for a conversation that's as much about the swing as it is about the strategy behind crafting well-rounded student-athletes. With a heritage steeped in golf and a dual role at the storied Country Club in Brookline, Kevin imparts wisdom that strikes a chord not just with those aiming for the green but anyone seeking balance in life's pursuits.

Amid our candid discussion, we navigate the complexities of collegiate time management, uncovering how Harvard's golfers juggle the demands of academia and athletics with finesse under Kevin's tutelage. Mental fortitude takes center stage as we reveal how leadership, developing a critical yet nurturing coaching voice, and embracing technology can galvanize an athlete's growth. But it's not all about the digital; we also pay homage to the timeless virtues of patience and presence in the quest for personal and professional excellence.

In our final strokes, Kevin and I celebrate the intrinsic joys of the coaching journey, from the revelatory impacts of biohacking on performance to the simple pleasures found in refining a skill or mentoring a willing pupil. Leadership anecdotes and high-performance insights are par for the course as we recognize the Harvard men's team's influence on the golfing world. Tune in, get inspired, and discover the lessons from the fairway that apply far beyond the 18th hole.

Website : measuredgolf.com 

Instagram : @measuredgolf | @theforceplateguy 

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