The Connected Instructor Podcast

In this episode, I sat down with Scott Shepard, a physical therapist and sports performance coach who's been at the forefront of golf-specific training for over 20 years. We got deep into the biomechanics of the golf swing, why movement quality matters more than brute strength, and how Scott helps golfers at every level improve performance and avoid injury.Scott shared how he transitioned from working with injured athletes to helping healthy ones optimize their movement. We talked about his custom PFX program, the importance of understanding swing mechanics, and how training with purpose can fast-track your progress—no matter your skill level.Here’s what we covered:The biggest mistakes golfers make with fitnessWhy understanding your swing should guide your trainingHow to warm up properly to activate your body and protect against injuryThe disconnect between what pros do in the gym and what amateurs really needMy favorite insight: “If you train the right patterns, you don’t need to hit 500 balls to get better.”This one’s packed with practical tools—whether you're a coach, weekend golfer, or a fitness pro looking to get into golf performance. Big thanks to Scott for bringing the heat and making the science feel simple.👉 Follow Scott on Instagram

What happens when golf meets Kundalini energy and spiritual awakening? In this radically honest and vibrantly layered conversation, I dive deep with Megan Michelle—an unconventional thinker reshaping how we relate to golf, ourselves, and the cosmos. Megan shares how a spontaneous decision to buy a school bus on New Year’s Eve triggered a profound spiritual awakening and led her to view golf as a multidimensional portal of personal evolution.From navigating the divine feminine on the fairway to turning every shot into a mirror for the soul, Megan breaks down how the game of golf is a spiritual playground—if you’re willing to surrender. She reflects on golf as both a sport and a ceremonial practice, revealing how emotional energy, moon cycles, and sexual aliveness all impact performance on the course.Takeaways:Golf is not linear—it's energetic, cyclical, and deeply connected to nature.How Kundalini energy and personal spiritual work transformed Megan’s golf experience.The role of emotional balance and sacred play in peak golf performance.Creative surrender, the divine feminine, and embracing your “competitive kink.”Why the moon might be your best coach.Timestamps:00:00 – Megan’s origin story: from pandemic school bus to golf spirituality02:45 – The booby traps of the higher self06:40 – Golf as a reflection of self and relationship13:45 – Moving beyond one-dimensional golf17:00 – Emotions as divine language on the course25:00 – Kundalini explained (plus some Pleiadean energy and sass)43:00 – Setting intentions and spiritual sabotage on iconic courses58:00 – Surrender vs control: how to channel unknown energy1:03:00 – Moon phases, goal setting, and golf as a portal to blissFollow her on Instagram

Show Notes:In this episode of The Connected Instructor, I sit down with renowned performance psychologist Dr. Raymond Prior. With a background in sport and exercise psychology, Dr. Prior has worked with elite athletes, major champions, and even Grammy and Oscar winners. He is also the author of Golf Beneath the Surface: The New Science of Golf Psychology, a groundbreaking book that challenges traditional sports psychology approaches. Together, we explore what it truly means to unlock peak performance, why common advice like "just be confident" is often misleading, and how stable confidence is built from within. Dr. Prior also dives deep into the neuroscience of anxiety, impulse control, and why some golfers get "stuck in second gear" when it matters most. Key Takeaways:⛳ The difference between "junk food confidence" and stable confidence🧠 How anxiety hijacks performance and what to do about it🎯 Why expectations and fear of success can derail even the best athletes🗝️ The surprising traits that separate elite performers from the rest📚 How Dr. Prior's book redefines golf psychology for serious competitors Whether you're a coach, an athlete, or someone striving for personal excellence, this episode is packed with valuable insights that go far beyond the world of golf. 📖 Connect with Dr. Raymond Prior: Website BUY HIS BOOK

Show Notes: Join host Landon Michelson as he sits down with Jason Sutton, better known as The Golf Guru, a Golf Magazine Top 100 Instructor and Director of Instruction at the prestigious Colton River Club in South Carolina. With over three decades of teaching experience, Jason has coached everyone from beginners to PGA Tour professionals. In this episode, you'll discover: Jason's journey from head pro to world-class instructor and podcast host. How coaching curiosity and a growth mindset drive his teaching philosophy. The role of technology in modern golf instruction and how Jason uses tools like TrackMan and Smart2Move force plates. Insights on teaching putting and the nuances of short-game instruction, including Jason’s step-by-step approach to analyzing and improving players' strokes. A detailed look at creating long-term coaching plans tailored to individual player needs. Jason also shares compelling anecdotes, explains common misconceptions in golf, and offers practical advice for both players and instructors looking to elevate their game. Don’t miss this deep dive into the art and science of coaching golf! Guru's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/golfgurutv/

In this episode of the Connected Instructor Podcast, I sit down with Ryan French, the passionate voice behind Monday Q Info and a dedicated advocate for mini tour golfers. Ryan shares his journey from the restaurant industry to becoming a leading journalist for golf's underdog stories, shedding light on the struggles and triumphs of players fighting to make it to the big leagues. Topics Covered: [0:00] Ryan’s journey: From restaurant manager to mini tour journalist. [11:00] The magic of Q School and incredible Cinderella stories like Will Chandler and Jin Chung. [25:00] The challenges of shrinking opportunities in professional golf. [40:00] Big Money Classic scandal and its impact on the mini tour world. [56:00] Ryan’s philanthropic work through the Drive for the Future Foundation. Ryan also dives into his advocacy work for mini tour players, his views on the changing landscape of pro golf, and the importance of creating a supportive community. Plus, hear about his unique approach to journalism that’s both heartfelt and impactful. Follow Ryan on X (@MondayQInfo) or visit MondayQ.com to stay connected with his work. Don’t miss this inspiring episode packed with insights, advocacy, and a genuine love for the game of golf!

In this episode of The Connected Instructor, Landon Michelson sits down with former professional golfer Michael Buttacavoli. From a stellar collegiate career at Rice University to four victories on the PGA Tour Latin America, Michael shares his journey through the highs and challenges of life in professional golf. Discover how he navigated the demanding world of pro tours, battled perfectionism, and ultimately found peace and perspective after stepping away from the game. Michael reflects on lessons learned, including the power of acceptance, managing performance pressure, and finding joy in competition again through amateur events like the US Mid-Am. Key Takeaways: 🎯 Persistence Through Pressure: How resilience fueled Michael's career despite setbacks. ⛳ The Art of Letting Go: The mental shift from chasing technical perfection to trusting his game. 🏌️ Life After Golf: How Michael's competitive edge now powers his career in real estate. 💡 Pro Tips for Golfers: Play for stakes—whether money or pride—and get comfortable being uncomfortable. Timestamps: [00:01:06] Michael’s journey from Rice University to PGA Tour Latin America [09:05] Life on the Hooters Tour & early pro struggles [20:43] Insights into qualifying for the Korn Ferry Tour [27:11] The power of acceptance in golf and life [56:09] Competing in the US Mid-Am as an amateur Connect with Michael: Instagram: @ButtaInMiami Website: michaelbuttacavoli.ewm.com

In this episode, Landon Michelson sits down with Joel Turner, creator of Shot IQ and Mind IQ, to explore the transformative power of mental training for athletes. Known for his revolutionary approach to handling performance anxiety and refining motor skills, Joel shares his insights on how shooters, archers, and golfers alike can benefit from conscious decision-making, speech-based focus techniques, and understanding open vs. closed loop systems in sports. Key topics include: The psychology of performance anxiety and Joel’s approach to overcoming "target panic" in shooting—paralleled to the golfer’s struggle with the “yips.” Open and closed loop control systems: how golfers can use these principles to adjust their swing and improve consistency. The concept of “getting loud in your head” and how conscious self-talk can help athletes remain focused, even under intense pressure. Practical applications of Shot IQ and Mind IQ for golfers, as well as Joel's insights on how conscious attention to detail can help athletes build repeatable, reliable performances. Gender differences in perception and vision in sports, and how these nuances can influence performance. Listen in to discover how to apply these groundbreaking mental techniques in your game, develop a stronger mindset, and take control of your performance. You can connect with Joel Turner and explore his work through various platforms: - Instagram Follow [@shotiq] - YouTube: [SHOT IQ YouTube channel] - Mind IQ Course: [Mind IQ online course]

In this episode, host Landon Michelson sits down with Dr. Michael Kay, a renowned physical therapist and golf performance specialist, to explore innovative approaches to improving your golf game. Key Topics Discussed: Dr. Kay's journey into physical therapy and golf performance The importance of understanding individual body shapes and movement patterns How different body types (e.g., "kangaroo" vs. "gorilla") affect golf swings The relationship between physical structure and golf swing mechanics Strategies for developing motor patterns and improving performance Dr. Kay explains his unique approach to analyzing golfers' bodies and movements Discussion on how professional golfers like John Rahm and Justin Thomas optimize their swings based on their physical attributes Insights on training beginners and developing foundational movement skills The importance of variability in training, especially for young golfers Why traditional strength training may not always be the best approach for improving golf performance Highlights: About the Guest: Dr. Michael Kay is the founder of K Performance Physio in Scottsdale, Arizona, and Helix Golf. He combines cutting-edge physical therapy techniques with performance training to help golfers of all levels improve their game. His client list includes athletes from the PGA Tour, LPGA Tour, MLB, NFL, and UFC. Tune in to learn how understanding your body's unique characteristics can help you unlock your full potential on the golf course!

In this enlightening episode of the Connected Instructor podcast, host Landon Michelson welcomes Steven Yellin, creator of the groundbreaking Fluid Motion Factor program. With over four decades of experience, Yellin shares his unique approach to sports psychology, focusing on how athletes can access peak performance states more consistently. This episode is a must-listen for golfers, coaches, and anyone interested in the mental aspects of sports performance. Key Topics Discussed: 1. The origin and development of the Fluid Motion Factor program 2. How the quality of space before motion impacts performance 3. Breaking free from "swing prison" and traditional mechanics 4. The mind-body connection in golf and other sports 5. Achieving wholeness and its effect on timing and execution 6. The role of simplicity in improving motion 7. Why attention doesn't equal execution in golf 8. The importance of silence and surrender in peak performance 9. Transcendental Meditation's influence on Yellin's approach 10. Practical tips for instructors to help students access fluid motion Notable Quotes: "The quality of space before you initiate a motion will more or less determine the quality of the motion." - Steven Yellin "Attention does not equate to execution because if attention equated to execution, Rory would have won 10 of those 40 majors." - Steven Yellin Takeaways for Listeners: - Understand the importance of mental preparation before physical execution - Learn how to access deeper levels of the mind for improved performance - Discover the value of simplicity and wholeness in golf and other sports - Gain insights into breaking free from mechanical swing thoughts - Explore the spiritual aspects of golf that contribute to peak performance Resources Mentioned: - Steven Yellin's website: stevenyellin.com - Book: "Simplicity" by Steven Yellin - Book: "The Fluid Motion Factor" by Steven Yellin Connect with Steven Yellin: Website: stevenyellin.com Location: Vero Beach, Florida For golf instructors, players, and enthusiasts looking to revolutionize their approach to the game, this episode provides invaluable insights into the mental aspects of performance that are often overlooked in traditional instruction.

Key Topics Discussed: 1. Mental Game in Golf - Importance of affirmations and mindset shifts - Concept of mental golf type and personalized strategies - Managing expectations and focusing on the process 2. Practical Golf Improvement Strategies - Developing a clear pre-shot routine - Importance of intentional practice and addressing weaknesses - Emphasis on short game development 3. Goal Setting and Achievement - Setting long-term and yearly goals - Breaking down big goals into actionable steps - Correlation between distance and lower handicaps 4. Performance Enhancement - Value of consistency and accountability - Benefits of tournament play - Importance of self-belief and positive thinking Key Takeaways: - Mental game improvement is crucial for overall golf performance - Understand your mental golf type to develop a personalized approach - Implement a clear process and routine for every shot - Set ambitious goals and break them down into measurable steps - Aim for increased distance (250+ yards) to lower your handicap - Engage in tournament play to improve performance under pressure - Cultivate a positive mindset and strong self-belief both on and off the course Guest Information: Michael Leonard, host of the Wicked Smart Golf podcast, shares insights on golf improvement, mental game strategies, and goal setting techniques. Action Items for Listeners: 1. Assess your mental golf type and develop a tailored mental game plan 2. Establish a consistent pre-shot routine 3. Set specific, measurable goals for the year ahead 4. Incorporate intentional practice sessions focusing on weaknesses 5. Consider participating in local tournaments to challenge yourself This podcast offers valuable insights for golfers of all levels looking to improve their game through mental strategies, practical techniques, and goal-oriented approaches.

In this episode of the Connected Instructor podcast, the guest who for legal reasons will remain anonymous, shares their unique perspective on various topics, including the PGA Tour, the Canadian Open, and Rory McIlroy. They criticize the FedEx Cup process and the World Golf Ranking system, suggesting alternative approaches. They propose a deal with the Saudis to create a sustainable business model for the PGA Tour and reduce the number of events. They also discuss the commercial load and playing through during broadcasts, expressing their frustration with excessive advertisements. The guest shares their opinions on Golf Canada and the USGA, highlighting the differences in their approaches. They also criticize Rory McIlroy for his lack of major wins despite his talent. The conversation covers various topics, including the personal lives of professional golfers, the importance of enforcing rules at country clubs, and the marketing challenges faced by the LPGA Tour. The guest shares anecdotes and opinions on these subjects, providing an entertaining and candid perspective. Takeaways The guest criticizes the FedEx Cup process and the World Golf Ranking system, suggesting alternative approaches. They propose a deal with the Saudis to create a sustainable business model for the PGA Tour and reduce the number of events. The guest expresses frustration with the commercial load and playing through during broadcasts. They discuss the differences between Golf Canada and the USGA, highlighting the USGA's more serious approach. The guest criticizes Rory McIlroy for his lack of major wins despite his talent. The personal lives of professional golfers can be a subject of fascination and speculation. Enforcing rules at country clubs is important to maintain the club's reputation and standards. The LPGA Tour faces marketing challenges in connecting with an American audience. The guest's personal experience with golf instruction and his journey to improve his game. The importance of market forces in determining the success and popularity of sports leagues. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Exclusive Interview 01:46 Challenging the PGA Tour 02:57 Critiquing the PGA Tour Product 06:59 Proposing a Saudi Deal 09:37 Unwatchable Commercials 13:55 Contrasting Golf Canada and the USGA 18:35 Critiquing Rory McIlroy 23:42 Inside the Lives of Professional Golfers 32:37 The Importance of Enforcing Rules at Country Clubs 39:11 Marketing Challenges Faced by the LPGA Tour 43:49 A Journey to Improve Golf Skills 46:53 The Role of Market Forces in Sports Leagues

Scott Turner, owner and operator of the Minor League Golf Tour, shares his experiences in the world of professional golf. He discusses the challenges faced by mini tour players, including financial issues and unreliable tour operators. Scott emphasizes the importance of integrity and reliability in running a tour, highlighting that the Minor League Golf Tour has never missed a payment to its players. He also talks about the behind-the-scenes work involved in organizing tournaments, such as securing venues and managing finances. The assistant director, Steve, is responsible for the setup of the golf course before events, including marking penalty areas and checking out of bounds. Scott coordinates with the host venue and handles administrative tasks such as player coordination, answering emails and texts, and managing payments and tax forms. The Minor League Golf Tour serves as a developmental tour for players to improve their skills and gain experience. Scott's vision for the tour is to continuously improve the player experience and provide opportunities for players to succeed. Takeaways Mini tour players often face financial issues and unreliable tour operators. The Minor League Golf Tour has a reputation for integrity and reliability, never missing a payment to its players. Organizing a tour involves securing venues, managing finances, and building relationships with sponsors and clubs. Players should show gratitude and respect to clubs and staff members who host tournaments. The assistant director plays a crucial role in setting up the golf course before events. Coordination with the host venue and administrative tasks are important aspects of managing a golf tour. The Minor League Golf Tour serves as a developmental tour for players to improve their skills. Continuous improvement and providing opportunities for players to succeed are key goals for the tour. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Scott Turner and the Minor League Golf Tour 02:24 Scott's Personal Journey and the Importance of Mini Tour Events 09:19 Challenges of Securing Venues for Mini Tour Events 12:37 Maintaining Positive Relationships with Host Clubs 19:19 Partnerships and the Historical Significance of Mini Tour Events 22:28 The Day-to-Day Responsibilities of Running a Golf Tournament 23:24 The Non-Stop Nature of Managing the Tour 24:28 The Developmental Nature of the Tour 25:40 The Role of the Tour in Providing Reps and Opportunities 27:11 The Impact of Satellite Tours on the Developmental Golf Landscape 28:30 The Financial Realities of a Mini Tour 38:22 Continuous Improvement and Enhancing the Player Experience 45:34 Using the Tour as a Stepping Stone and Learning Experience 47:13 The Journey and Success of Players 50:32 Appreciation for Players and the Future of the Tour 52:04 How to Sign Up for Minor League Golf Tour Events