The 18STRONG Podcast: Golf | Golf Fitness | Mental Game | Nutrition

Dr. Michael Gervais joins us in this episode to discuss finding mastery in everything that we do, including our golf game.  Dr. Gervais is one of the world’s leading experts in psychology when it comes to working with high performance individuals, especially athletes. Included in his resume is working with Coach Pete Carroll and the Seattle SeaHawks, Red Bull extreme athletes, and corporate execs and teams striving for higher performance.  In this episode, he takes us on a journey of exploration of our inner selves and desires.  Why do you play golf, and what does dictate for you regarding your goals and results? Subscribe to the 18STRONG Podcast on iTunes and stitcher by clicking the button below: Dr. Michael Gervais’ Background * California Licensed psychologist specializing in high performance, he works in the trenches of high-stakes environments, where there is no luxury for mistakes, hesitation, or failure to respond. * He has created a performance model that allows people to achieve their maximum potential, whether on or off the field. * A published, peer-reviewed author and recognized speaker on human performance issues, Dr. Gervais has been featured by ESPN, CNN, NFL Network, FUELtv, Red Bull TV, Extra, The Huffington Post, GolfersMD, South Bay magazine and others. * Host of the Finding Mastery Podcast * Psychologist working witht he Seattle SeaHawks * Co-Founder of WinForever with Coach Pete Carroll * Psychologist to multiple extreme athletes, including Red Bull athlete Felix Baugartner, aka. the dude that jumped from outer-space! Highlights from this Episode * Dr. Gervais breaks down what he does as a psychologist working with athletes and individuals in high performance situations. * What are the differences/similarities in working with the extreme athletes compared to working with other athletes and individuals. * Dr. G talks about what he has learned from the “masters” he has interviewed on his podcast. * How do we get better at handling disappointments? and how do we train ourselves to be “more comfortable being uncomfortable?” * Dr. Gervais gives us some practical application for finding mindfulness in our daily lives and how this applies to golf. * We discuss the “space between hesitation and commitment”  and how important that is for performance. * The Razor’s Edge, what is it and what are the possibilities we face when we are in this scenario * Dr. G suggests that ultimately you ask yourself “Why” are you playing golf?  That should determine  goals, outcomes, and daily practices. CaddyShack or Happy Gilmore? CaddyShack One or 2 of the Most Influential People, Books, or Experiences in Your Life? Man’s Search for Meaning by Viktor Frankl Coach Carroll- Seattle Seahawks Who would you like to spend a day on the course with? Ferdinand Magellan Elon Musk What are you excited about in your near future/ Whats your mission? “Roots and Reach” Where to Find Dr. Michael Gervais: websites: MichaelGervais.com, Finding Mastery, WinForEver.com Facebook: Finding Mastery Twitter: @MichaelGervais Other Resources/Links Mentioned Books: When Buddhists Attack, Learned Optimism,

John Thorp, from BodiTrak Sports joins us in this episode to discuss a topic in golf and other sports that has been talked about, but not often studied, which is the relationship that an athlete has with the ground. Ground mechanics are often noted as a huge part of the golf swing, but until now, it has not been easy to actually measure these forces without a complete research lab. With their newest technology, Boditrak has changed the game as it relates to the golf swing.  In this episode, we will not only discuss why looking at the feet and pressures on the ground are so important, but also how their technology has been able to take this to the driving range, the course, and just about anywhere.  And golf is just the beginning. . . Subscribe to the 18STRONG Podcast on iTunes and stitcher by clicking the button below: John Thorp’s Background * Grew up in Canada * Played hockey, not golf growing up. * President of BodiTrak Sports CaddyShack or Happy Gilmore? Happy Gilmore.  It was his favorite movie growing up.  Plus he’s a Canadian, so anything to do with hockey is basically a given. One of the most influential People, Books, or Experiences in your life: Terry Hashimoto Highlights from this Episode * John and I discuss the relationship between an athlete and the ground and why it’s so important to understand. * John tells us the story behind BodiTrak Sports, where it all started and some of the plans for the future. * We discuss the implications of being able to use this technology on the range, on the course, in the gym, etc. * John has been very involved in the Level One TPI seminars over the past several months, which has allowed both BodiTrak and TPI to analyze and discover connections between the Big 12 swing characteristics and what is going on in the feet of the golfer. * Some of the main takeaways that you may want to note in your own swing are your balance positions at setup and the loading of weight into the trail foot during and at the top of the backswing. * John talks about how looking at the foot mechanics can be very beneficial for the mid to high handicap golfer simply by creating a true awareness and feedback on what their feet are doing in general. * As for the tour players, coaches are using this as a feedback tool for things as specific as snapshots of what each club and even types of shots should look like.  They are then able to compare with the foot trace when a poor shot is hit. * John and I also discuss the fact that golf is just a small area that this technology will ultimately be effective.  Many more applications in other sports and even in the sports medicine world are likely in the forefront. * BodiTrak and Footjoy have also teamed up to look at which shoes work best for certain players.  In fact, they even noticed as much as a 3mph difference in clubhead speed simply by fitting a player with the proper shoes! * John tells us the story behind BodiTrak setting up an office here in St. Louis, MO and what brought them here, including the guys at Stadia Ventures Who would you like to spend a day on the course with? Doug Gilmour was (and I think still is) John’s childhood idol.  In fact, in recent years he and his buddies had a rec hockey team that they named “The Dougies!” Here is a link to the letter Doug Gilmour wrote to “[His] Younger Self” What are you excited about in your near future?

Demi Runas, LPGA golfer and one of Golf.com’s “Most Beautiful Women in Golf”  joins us in this episode to share her experiences as a professional golfer and the changes that she has made in the gym that have made such an impact on the course. As a young, up and coming professional golfer, Demi Runas has had some amazing experiences on the golf course.  In this episode of the 18STRONG Podcast, she shares some of the highs and lows , as well as some key lessons she has learned that have made her a stronger player.  Demi is also known for her work ethic and impressive fitness training, which she attributes a lot of her success to. She is a great role model for all golfers, and has a great message when it comes to working smarter and harder in the gym.  A message that she especially hopes to pass on to the female golfers interested in improving both their game and their health. Subscribe to the 18STRONG Podcast on iTunes and stitcher by clicking the button below: Demi Runas’s Background * Grew up playing golf, starting around the age of 4 * Finished 9th on the Volvik Race for the Card money list by closing in a tie for 2nd at the Symetra Tour Championship to move from 15th to 9th. * Posted two second place results and three additional top 10 finishes * Finished 3rd in the Gaelle Truet Rookie of the Year * Three-time Big West Player of the Year at UC Davis * Won the 2013 Big West Women’s Golf Championship and guided team to four Big West conference titles * Four time First Team All Big West Highlights from this Episode * Demi tells us about her college coach and how she was/is such an inspiration to her * She recounts her introduction to golf as a youngster and how she has loved the game since she was very young * Demi recounts her experiences on the course including some of her most frustrating and most gratifying moments * She tells an amazing story of the day she earned her LPGA card by shooting lights out and getting into a playoff in her last event of the year in 2014 * We discuss her training program and her work with Chang Lee at Exos; how “training properly” has revolutionized her game and her power * We especially touch on why it is so important for women to work on strength and power in their workouts to improve their game * Demi shares some of her nutritional strategies that she feels are key to stamina on the course * And we discuss some of the mental toughness that she has developed over the years, some of which she has had since she was little, and some which has taken a lot of work and effort to develop. CaddyShack or Happy Gilmore? Happy Gilmore One or 2 of the Most Influential People, Books, or Experiences in Your Life? Her college coach Anne Walker Who would you like to spend a day on the course with? Jack Nicklaus What are you excited about in your near future? Playing her greatest golf Where to Find Demi Runas: LPGA player profile: Demi Runas Facebook: Demi Runas Golf Twitter: @DemiRunasGolf Instagram: @DemiRunasGolf Other Links Mentioned Most Beautiful Women in Golf: Demi Runas Having Trouble Leaving a review from your iPhone or desktop?

Sam Goulden joins us in this episode to share his experiences as a coach and a player in this incredible game of golf.  Sam has become one of the most sought after coaches in the game that is working with the Focus Band and delving more into the world of managing the mind and focus on the course,as opposed to the traditional model of instruction which is generally based more on technique and positional changes. In this episode, Sam and I talk about his travels and experiences from playing/teaching here in St. Louis, to selling all of his possessions and traveling to California to play, at times living in a tent and struggling to figure out his position in this game.  Sam loves the game of golf and has found a new appreciation for playing and coaching using this new approach of mind over technique. Subscribe to the 18STRONG Podcast on iTunes and stitcher by clicking the button below: Sam Goulden’s Background * Grew up in Washington, Missouri * Skateboarder first, golfer second (at least used to be). * Started coaching golfers, then his fucosed shifted more to playing competitively in 2006. * Moved to California in 2009 to play on the mini tours. * In 2012, decided to give it a run at PGA Tour qualifiers, sold all his possessions and took his show on the road, documenting the whole process with a group of other players, known as TourQuest * Sam has been doing a lot more teaching and instruction as of recently, working very closely with the developers of the Focus Band (Graeme and Henry Boulton) and mental game/short game instructor Jason Goldsmith. Highlights from this Episode * Sam gives us the highlights of his incredible journey from when he was a golfer in Washington Missouri to where he is now (which is currently The Royal Isabella in Puerto Rico!). * We talk about how we met many years ago here in St. Louis when we were both much younger, more naive and probably more handsome. * We discuss Sam’s experiences using the Focus Band in his instruction with students and how it has completely changed how he teaches. * Sam shares his unique perspective on how the ability to quiet one’s mind (which is actually an ancient process) can make practice much more effective and competition much more relaxing and FUN. * Sam walks us through some practical applications of the focus band as well as a couple of things we can do to work on the mind without the high tech components. * See the target, see the ball.  Know where your intended target is and let the rest go. * Lots of great stories and experiences in this episode.  Definitely take a listen! CaddyShack or Happy Gilmore? CaddyShack One or 2 of the Most Influential People, Books, or Experiences in Your Life? Ben Hogan’s 5 Lessons Jason Goldsmith Who would you like to spend a day on the course with? Ben Hogan The 19y.o. version of himself What are you excited about in your near future? Getting as good as possible, playing great golf and continuing to grow the game with his golfers Where to Find Sam Goulden: website: https://samgouldengolf.com/ Facebook: TourQuest Twitter: @SamGouldenGolf @TeamTourQuest Instagram: Test_of_Wills TourQuest Other Links Mentioned

Skip Berkmeyer joins us in this episode to share his experiences as a top amateur and mid-amateur golfer, both locally and nationally.  Having won the Missouri Amateur title multiple times, played in 30 USGA events and won on the national level, Skip offers us some insights in to his philosophies around playing your best golf and how to balance that when you also have a full time career, wife, kids, etc. As a friend and one of the best players I know personally, it was great to chat with Skip and hear some of his stories from the past, get some advice from him about playing better golf, and learning more about what keeps him driven to play at such a high level when the stakes aren’t millions of dollars.  Simply a love of the game and a desire to keep competing ! Subscribe to the 18STRONG Podcast on iTunes and stitcher by clicking the button below: Skip Berkmeyer’s Background * Has played in 30 USGA events * Won the Missouri State Amateur title 3 times * Player of the Year 11 times in Missouri * 2009 Crump Cup Champion * Grew up in St. Louis, MO * Played multiple sports in high school: Baseball, Football, Golf Highlights from this Episode * Skip shares some of his accomplishments as an amateur golfer on the local and national level * Skip didn’t grow up playing only golf, he played just about every sport. We discuss the pros and cons to that back then and now. * Ultimately, he believes that not focusing solely on golf, but having the freedom to play other sports, is likely why he still has such a love for the game. * Skip explains why he still does it all.  With a wife, kids, running a business, a radio show, life is busy, but he still has the drive to compete and win. * We also talk about the trends in the game and the younger golfers coming up in regards to fitness and athleticism. * Skip’s experience is that the younger players coming up are more athletic: bigger, stronger, and longer than ever. * Skip emphasizes that if golf is not your full-time job, it takes a lot of organization to practice, play and prepare if you want to compete. * He stresses the use of small doses of focused practice, rather than going to the range and hitting hundreds of balls. Work on the short game and put yourself in all different position. * Don’t just hit the same shots over and over.  You need to practice adversity, so you are prepared when you face it on the course. * Words of wisdom: “[Get good with the driver, the wedge and the putter.]” * Skip some some of his best memories and a couple of his biggest challenges on the course. CaddyShack or Happy Gilmore? CaddyShack One or 2 of the Most Influential People, Books, or Experiences in Your Life? His Parents.  Especially being able to see his mom win the women’s state Amateur title (which she won 5 times!) Who would you like to spend a day on the course with? His Grandfather: who he lost at age 9.  His grandfather was the one that taught his mom to play golf. Bobby Jones: Being an amateur like Bobby, would love to get some of his insights. What are you excited about in your near future? Just excited to get consistently get better. Where to Find Skip Berkmeyer: Company Website: All-startrophy.com Radio Show: Fairways and Greens Twitter: @sberkmeyer Having Trouble Leaving a review from your iPhone or desktop?

Our trip to the 2016 PGA Show was a huge success.  It was the first trip that Ryan, Tim, and I have taken together as 18STRONG, and and I have to say, we had a great time, met some great people, and were amazed at not only the size of the show, but the excitement that was in the air around golf in general.   Subscribe to the 18STRONG Podcast on iTunes and stitcher by clicking the button below: Highlights from this Episode In this episode, I simply wanted to give you a glimpse of our experience at the PGA show.   There are so many great people and connections that we made while we were there.  If you have never been to the show before, I highly recommend going just to experience it once. You will find everything under the sun that is golf related: gadgets, equipment, simulators, golf carts, apparel, you name it. Here is a little collage of our trip.  Yes, we had a very good time! Having Trouble Leaving a review from your iPhone or desktop? CLICK HERE to see how on your iPhone! CLICK HERE to see how on your desktop! <a

Jonathan Bailor, author of the NY Times and USA Today Bestselling book, “The Calorie Myth,” joins us in this episode to share his experience in the world of health and nutrition and to dispel the long believed, but rarely successful “Eat Less, Exercise More” philosophy on weight loss and health.   Subscribe to the 18STRONG Podcast on iTunes and stitcher by clicking the button below: Jonathan Bailor’s Background * Jonathan Bailor is an internationally recognized wellness expert who specializes in using modern science and technology to simplify health. * He has collaborated with top scientists for more than 10 years to analyze and apply over 1,300 studies. His work has been endorsed by top doctors and scientists from Harvard Medical School, Johns’ Hopkins, The Mayo Clinic, The Cleveland Clinic, and UCLA. * Jonathan is the founder of SANESolution.com and serves as the CEO for the wellness technology company Yopti®. * He authored the New York Times and USA Today bestselling book The Calorie Myth, * Hosts a popular syndicated health radio show The SANE Show * And regularly blogs on The Huffington Post. * Additionally, Bailor has registered over 25 patents, spoken at Fortune 100 companies and TED conferences for over a decade, and served as a Senior Program Manager at Microsoft where he helped create Nike+ Kinect Training and XBox Fitness. Highlights from this Episode * Jonathan starts out by answering the question “How did we get it so wrong for so long?” talking about the idea of calorie counting and the “Eat less, exercise more” philosophy * Jonathan explains a few of the analogies in his book that really drive home some of the major concepts that are fundamentally different than what most of us have been taught, like: * Our bodies are like a clogged drain * Sugar is basically the new cigarette * The SANE solution (which is his solution for helping us eat more and exercise less!) * Jonathan helps us understand why the concept of preaching moderation, especially in recommended guidelines is so wrong.  You wouldn’t suggest someone smoke in moderation, or simply smoke smaller cigarettes, would you?! * Jonathan shares with us the keys to eating smarter, SANE foods, and why they create a much more efficient environment in your body that will help you burn more fat, feel much better, and ultimately play a much better game of golf! CaddyShack or Happy Gilmore? Happy Gilmore (as he has NEVER SEEN CADDYSHACK! but he’s not a golfer, so we forgive him;-) One or 2 of the Most Influential People, Books, or Experiences in Your Life? The Seven Habits of Highly Successful People by Steven Covey Where to Find Jonathan Bailor: Website: SANESolution.com Facebook: SANE Solution Twitter: @jonathanbailor Other Links Mentioned Having Trouble Leaving a review from your iPhone or desktop? CLICK HERE to see how on your iPhone! CLICK HERE to see how on your desktop!

Sean Hutchison joins us in this episode to share his experiences in coaching world champion swimmers, brain science, mirror neurons, and why he is now speaking to the who’s who about creating better golfers. Sean is the founder of IKKOS, a technology company that is changing the way we learn movement patterns.  He shares with us how, in literally minutes, the brain has the ability to see something externally, process it as if it is our own body, and then perform that same movement better than before, using mirror neurons.  “Back to the Future” kind of stuff, right! Subscribe to the 18STRONG Podcast on iTunes and stitcher by clicking the button below: Sean Hutchison’s Background * Former US Olympic swim coach * Sean has trained some of the world’s top athletes, and is regarded as a coaches’ coach * In addition, he is an experienced entrepreneur with a history of building outstanding teams, innovative products, and revolutionary systems for learning and training. * Sean is the founder of Ikkos, an incredibly innovative piece of technology that allows you to tap into the power of your brain to create better movement in sport and function within minutes of work. Highlights from this Episode * Sean divulges some of the most influential people in his life that have helped him get to where is is now * We discuss his background as a swimmer, then swim coach and some of the decisions and passions that helped him become a world class coach * Sean explains some of the common characteristics that he noticed in the world class and Olympic medal athletes that he trained. * He shares why he hates the word “talent” * We delve into brain science and how his passion for learning more has now become a new venture for him by creating the company IKKOS * IKKOS is a combination of mobile technology and recently understood brain science that uses the premise of mirror neurons to help you literally download the movement patterns that you see on TV to your brain and body! CaddyShack or Happy Gilmore? CaddyShack- definitively! One or 2 of the Most Influential People, Books, or Experiences in Your Life? His family Walt Disney, DiVinci, Einstein, Hemingway (people of Mastery) Who would you like to spend a day on the course with? Bill Murray What are you excited about in your near future? Helping people do things they didn’t think they could do. Where to Find Sean Hutchison: website: ikkos.com Facebook: IKKOS Twitter: @IkkosCEO Having Trouble Leaving a review from your iPhone or desktop? CLICK HERE to see how on your iPhone! CLICK HERE to see how on your desktop!

Jim Hackenberg, the creator of the Orange Whip Trainer join’s us in this episode to give us the story behind his invention which has been named the #1 Golf Product in the world. If you haven’t seen or heard about the Orange Whip Trainer, frankly, you must have been living under a rock.  These things are everywhere, including in over 400 professional golfers bags across the globe. In today’s episode, Jim shares how he came up with the idea for the Orange Whip, where the name came from, and how to use it. Subscribe to the 18STRONG Podcast on iTunes and stitcher by clicking the button below:  Jim Hackenberg and the Orange Whip’s Background * Jim grew up in North Dakota, but didn’t start playing golf until the age of 12 or 13. * Once he started playing he was hooked. * Jim played at Arizona State for a couple of years (at the same time as ole “Lefty,” Phil Mickelson) before finishing his college career at Oregon State. * He played on the mini tours for quite a few years before going into teaching. * While he was teaching, he was asked to caddy for a friend on the PGA, which is when the idea for the Orange Whip came to him. Highlights from this Episode * Jim tells us about the revelation he had about the golf swing and teaching his clients, and how this lead to the creation of the orange whip. * After many tweaks and changes to the prototype, he finally figured out the right look and feel, and the Orange Whip was born. * Jim and I discuss the importance of rhythm, tempo and balance in a golf swing. * Jim walks us through his 3 main drills for the Orange Whip: * Torso Twist * Hinging Forearm Rotation Drill * Full swing Drill * Jim has learned quite a few new drills from other teachers that use the Orange Whip (including using the trainer as a high intensity or cardio alternative, you can see our video below . . .) * Jim reveals where the name REALLY came from (HINT: it’s an 80’s movie with 2 guys in Black hats, Suits, and sunglasses. . .) * We talk about all of the professional players that are using this tool and why it has become such a “Must Have” item. CaddyShack or Happy Gilmore? CaddyShack Who would you like to spend a day on the course with? Tom Watson Ernest Jones: developed the ball on the end of a chain philosophy for golf How to get an Orange Whip? Just go to this link “I want a Whip” and you will get the 18STRONG discount. **(If you do not see the discount at checkout, use the code “18STRONG“)** What are you excited about in your near future? Coming out with a new Orange Whip Putter Where to Find Jim Hackenberg OrangeWhipTrainer.com Facebook: Orange Whip Trainer Twitter: @OrangeWhipGolf Other Links Mentioned All the Orange Whip videos Having Trouble Leaving a review from your iPhone or desktop? CLICK HERE to see how on your iPhone!

Diet and nutrition info is running rampant online.  It’s hard to know where to begin when you are looking to clean up the diet and get on the right track.  So in this episode, I am going to break down the exact guidelines that we use with our clients and athletes. I’m gonna warn you they are pretty simple and common-sense based, so if you’re looking for a magic wand or super secret trick, this episode doesn’t have it.  The nutrition guidelines are something I learned from Dr. John Berardi over at Precision Nutrition and have basically been following ever since I first saw them. Subscribe to the 18STRONG Podcast on iTunes and stitcher by clicking the button below: Highlights from this Episode I have come to find that people usually struggle with their nutrition for 5 main reasons: * They don’t have enough information * They have too much information and are paralyzed by information overload * They have BAD information that leads them down the wrong path * They know what they need to do, but just aren’t willing to commit to it * They just plain don’t care! I tell the story of a time a few years back when life got hectic, I let my diet and workouts slide, and I got FAT! But once I opened my eyes and realized how much I had let myself slip, I drew the line in the sand and committed to my diet and workouts hard-core, dropping over 11% bodyfat and adding quite a bit of muscle mass in less that 3 months.  In this episode, I share the primary principles that I used during that time (and since then) with my diet. I found that there were 3 main components that allowed me to succeed in this: * The 10 nutrition guidelines I am going to share * A solid plan for my workouts (4-5 days/week, lots of weights, very little cardio!) * An Accountability partner/coach The 10 Nutrition Guidelines These guidelines were originally taken from www.PrecisionNutrition.com (a great resource for anything related to nutrition) * EAT OFTEN, every 2-3 hours * Eat complete, lean PROTEIN at every “eating opportunity” * Eat VEGETABLES at every “eating opportunity” * Earn your CARBS * Include HEALTHY FATS in your diet * Drink water, coffee, or green tea * Eat as many WHOLE FOODS as possible * Plan on CHEATING! * Create the HABIT of PREPARATION * SUPPLEMENT appropriately (I recommend seeking out a professional) Recommended Resources: Greenwich Dx Sports Labs Omnivore’s Dilemma Precision Nutrition The Model Health Show Edibly Enlightened Food Prep Examples/Experts: Don Saladino Ali Gilbert Mike Subach Other Episodes Mentioned: Robert Yang– “Secrets to optimizing performance through Hydration and Nutrition” Shawn Stevenson–...

David MacKenzie is an expert on the mental game of golf, short game and putting.  In this episode, David shares with us some of the reasons we struggle on the course, and explains why it is often less about technique, but more about mental attitude and confidence in the work we have already put in. David has worked with players at every level of the game.  Have you ever been on a streak on the course where everything is going great, your irons are hunting the pins and you’re draining putts, then all of a sudden it all falls apart?  Is that technique, is it between the ears?  David helps us figure some of these things out, and how we can remedy the situation. We even talk about the . . . (cover your ears if you don’t want to hear it) . . . YIPS!  Yep.  I know you don’t like that word, but we dive into the “Y”-word. Subscribe to the 18STRONG Podcast on iTunes and stitcher by clicking the button below: David MacKenzie’s Background * David MacKenzie is the founder of Golf State of Mind and he lives in Washington, D.C. * David has been a coach for almost 15 years and has taught every level from beginner to Tour Pro with huge success. * David is a scratch golfer and attended the University of St. Andrews in Scotland, UK. * He uses the perfect blend of sports psychology and practical application to ensure no time is wasted in you working towards consistently playing to your potential. Highlights from this Episode * David shares his story of going from a career in finance to becoming a highly sought after mental game and performance coach for golfers. * What does a performance coach do?  Is it all mental game, swing lessons, putting; David explains. * We discuss confidence on the course and how you can gain more. * We talk about developing the right pre and post shot routine that works for you and how you can ingrain it so you don’t have to think when you are getting ready to hit your shot * David walks us through some of the things that he does with his players to warmup both their body and mind before a round of golf. * This preparation includes his 10 minute mental warmup, which he describes the following components in detail: * Breathing * Personal Highlight Real * Positive Statement * Gratitude * We talk about the ever so taboo “Yips” and what they really are, including some ideas you can use to curse them forever CaddyShack or Happy Gilmore? CaddyShack Who would you like to spend a day on the course with? Seve Ballasteros. Simply because of the energy and creativity he brought to the game! Recommended Resource: Ten Minute Toughness by Jason Selk What are you excited about in your near future? Becoming the best possible coach he can and continuously learning more about his craft – the mental game of golf. Where to Find David MacKenzie GolfStateofMind.com Facebook: Golf State of Mind Twitter: @GolfStateofMind   Donations Links (The Flood of 2015): As mentioned in the show, there were many members of the STL golf community and several golf courses that were hit very hard by the massive rains and flooding at t...

Nick Mueller joins us again to discuss how important self myofascial release/massage (SMR) can be for a golfer, and how it can be done very effectively if you have the right kind of tools, like a foam rolling. Nick is the head of Golf Performance at Innovative Fitness in South Surrey, BC , Canada.  Nick is an expert when it comes to strength and conditioning, especially in the world of golf and fitness.  Nick was a guest on an earlier episode of the 18STRONG Podcast (Episode 010) which we discussed regressing and correcting movement in the golfer in order to progress and make improvements.  This episode falls right in line with the last one. Knowing SMR techniques and how to properly do them with a small piece of equiptment (like a foam roller or ball) can save you lots of time and money trying to get your body back in order or recovering from a tough day on the course. CLICK HERE TO CHECK OUT RAD ROLLER Subscribe to the 18STRONG Podcast on iTunes and stitcher by clicking the button below:   Nick Mueller’s Background You can find more about Nick and his background at Innovative fitness HERE  Since we last heard from Nick on the show he has started a new junior golf program at Innovative Fitness and has been working with several WebdotCom hopefuls. Nick has also been named an ambassador for RAD a company that specializes in making very sophisticated self myofascial products.   Highlights from this Episode * Nick catches us up on all of the projects and programs he is affiliated with since our last conversation on the show (60 episodes ago!). * Nick gives us a breakdown of what fascia is in layman’s terms and what we can do to work on it. * We discus several different tools available that can help you with your self massage techniques. * Nick highlights a few of the RAD products that he loves and why * Nick explains why a golfer especially should be utilizing SMR techniques to play better and feel better   CaddyShack or Happy Gilmore? Bagger Vance (Nick just had to be different.  For the record, I do not accept this answer as legitimate!) Who would you like to spend a day on the course with? Tiger Woods What are you excited about in your near future? His new Junior Program, Heading to the PGA show to represent Innovative Fitness and RAD Where to Find Nick Mueller Facebook: Nick Mueller * Twitter: @Nickmgap * Instagram: CoachMueller * Innovative Fitness: www.InnovativeFitness.com Other Links Mentioned CLICK HERE TO CHECK OUT RAD ROLLER Having Trouble Leaving a review from your iPhone or desktop? CLICK HERE to see how on your iPhone!

Dr. Troy Van Biezen was one major win away from the “Van Biezen Slam” this past year with 2 of his clients (Jordan Spieth and Zach Johnson) capturing 3 of the 4 Major titles in the year 2015 (Masters, Open Championship, US Open). Along with the 2 aforementioned golfers, Dr. Troy also works with several other very recognizable golfers including Rickie Fowler, Ryan Palmer, and Jason Dufner to name a few. It’s obvious that Dr. Troy has experience working with and helping to create champions by getting them prepared and in optimal condition for their game.  As a chiropractor with a very well-rounded approach to care and physical preparation, Troy’s expertise provides an integral piece in creating the off-course training programs, nutrition plans, and preventative care to keep these guys healthy during their grueling playing and travel seasons. Dr. Troy Van Biezen also breaks down some of the main causes, treatments, and problems related to golfers and back pain. Subscribe to the 18STRONG Podcast on iTunes and stitcher by clicking the button below: Dr. Troy Van Biezen’s Background * Chiropractor for the PGA Tour. * Chiropractor for the Professional Arena Football Team; Dallas Desperados. * Active Release Doctor for the Dallas Stars. * Titleist Performance Institute Medical Professional Level 2. * Chiropractor for the National Champion Junior Hockey Team; Texas Tornadoes. * Chiropractor for the Triple AAA Midget Hockey Team; Dallas Stars. * Certified by the National Academy of Sports Medicine as a Performance Enhancement Specialist. * Board Certified by the National Board of Chiropractic Examiners and Texas Board of Chiropractic Examiners. * Has been practicing in the DFW metroplex since 1997. * Member of the American Chiropractic Sports Council and National Football League Professional Chiropractic Society. Member and Instructor for Professional Sports Care. * Sports Biomechanics Certified* Highlights from this Episode * Troy shares his background from his days playing hockey in Canada and professionally in Europe. * He talks about his experience working on the tour medical trailer for many years, traveling week to week with the players. * We discuss his role in the players’ care and what his schedule looks like working with them during the season. * Troy shares some stories of the guys (Jordan, Zach, Rickie, etc.) in the gym and some of the good natured competitive rivalries that they have. * We go into some detail on different back issues that are often seen in golfers and what actions you may want to take if these apply to you: * disc herniation * degenerative discs * general low back pain * who should you see * Dr. Troy gives some advice as to who you might want to see first if you have back pain or know you have one of the above issues. CaddyShack or Happy Gilmore? Happy Gilmore Who would you like to spend a day on the course with? President George W. Bush What are you excited about in your near future? Spending time at home over the holidays! Where to Find Dr. Troy Van Biezen website: ChiroSport Specialists Twitter: @ChiroSportTVB Facebook: ChiroSport Specialists of Dallas Other Links Mentioned

Chris O’Connell from The Plane Truth Golf joins us this week to discuss how to make your next ball better than the last one you hit.  Chris is a world class instructor that has been in just about every golf publication out there.  Chris is Matt Kuchar’s long time coach/instructor and is one of the founder’s of The Plane Truth Golf, along with legendary instructor Jim Hardy.   Subscribe to the 18STRONG Podcast on iTunes and stitcher by clicking the button below: Chris O’Connell’s Background * Golf Magazine’s Top 100 Teachers in America 2013-14 and 2015-16. * Current PGA TOUR students include Matt Kuchar and Eric Axley. * Authored numerous articles in Golf Digest and Golfweek. * Golf Digest’s Best Young Teachers 2010-2011, 2011-2012, and 2012-2013. * Mentored under Jim Hardy since 1998, ranked #8 2011-2012 America’s 50 Greatest Teachers by Golf Digest.  Named 2007 PGA of America Teacher of the Year and authored the #1 bestseller golf book The Plane Truth for Golfers. * Vice President and Co-Founder of The Plane Truth Golf Institute, a business dedicated to training golf instructors and providing instruction to golfers worldwide through innovative teaching tools. * Competed in 4 PGA TOUR events. * University of Notre Dame graduate 1995. Highlights from this Episode * Chris tells us about his youth as a golfer, his time at Notre Dame and his time on the Pga Tour. * Chris Caddied for Peter Jacobson for several years on Tour * He was then introduced to Jim Hardy by Peter Jacobson, who eventually became his instructor, mentor and now business partner at The Plane Truth Golf * Chris tells us what it’s like working with Matt Kuchar and some of his other high level players. * He discusses both the pro’s and cons of working with someone with such a unique swing as Matt’s and “being known for something” as an instructor * The 1 Plane and 2 Plane swings.  What are they, what are some of the fundamentals of each? * Chris explains the Plane Truth philosophy of “Next Ball Better” and how the method of instruction he abides by is based on impact and ball flight, not aesthetics. * We also talk about introducing kids to the game.  As a father of young girls, Chris feels that it is his OBLIGATION to help his girls learn the game of golf, but to always keep it FUN. CaddyShack or Happy Gilmore? CaddyShack Who would you like to spend a day on the course with? Ben Hogan (Chris tells the story of when Ben “Figured it out”) Last Piece of Advice Keep your eye on Patrick Rodgers.  He might be the next big thing. Where to Find Chris O’Connell Website: PlaneTruth.com Golf Schools: Plane Truth Schools Facebook: The Plane Truth Twitter: @PlaneTruthGolf   Having Trouble Leaving a review from your iPhone or desktop? CLICK HERE to see how on your iPhone! CLICK HERE to see how on your desktop!

Pia Nilsson and Lynn Marriott of VISION54 join me in this weeks episode to help us sort through our emotions on the course and figure out how to get the ball in the hole in the fewest amount of shots. It is their mission to help every golfer they work with realize their highest potential on the course.  While most golf instruction focuses on technique and the physical pieces of the golf swing, VISION54 emphasizes that there are more pieces to the puzzle, including the mental, emotional, social and even spiritual components. Subscribe to the 18STRONG Podcast on iTunes and stitcher by clicking the button below:  The Background of VISION54 * Lynn Marriott and Pia Nilsson are both featured among the top-50 lists for Golf Digest magazine’s best teachers, and listed on GOLF Magazine’s Top 100 Teachers. * Pia was Annika Sorenstam’s instructor for her entire professional career. * Other notable names that work with VISION54: * Kevin Streelman * Russell Knox * Na Yeon Choi * Ai Miyazato * Golf Digest ranked them in 2012 as the #1 and #2 women teachers in America. * In 2005, GOLF Magazine named VISION54’s flagship program, 54GOLF, the number one golf school in the U.S. They have have coached players to more than one hundred tour victories on the PGA Tour, LPGA Tour, European Tour and Ladies European Tour; including six major LPGA Tour winners. * They also have co-authored a number of books, including the best-selling Every Shot Must Have a Purpose, The Game Before The Game, and Play Your Best Golf Now.    Highlights from this Episode * Pia and Lynn tell us the story behind the creation of VISION54 and how it is about more than just golf instruction. * They are big believers that everything shows up in the technique, including emotion, tension, and frustration * We discuss the idea of having a “post-shot” routine * The 6 elements of the game: * Physical * Technical * Mental * Emotional * Social * Spirit * They give actionable drills to work on mastering the concepts of the Think Box  and the Play Box * The 2 practice essentials and how to incorporate them * To simulate golf * To integrate skills * Pia and Lynn give us several ideas for making our practices more effective, but more importantly, how we can control our emotions and reactions on the course * Visualize playing specific holes when you are on the practice range * hit different shots while voluntarily changing the amount of tension in your body * They have mobile apps and games that they like to play and use with their players * Enjoy the game.  A happy golfer is a better golfer! CaddyShack or Happy Gilmore? Pia: Happy Gilmore Lynn: Happy Gilmore (although Lynn shares a great story about Bill Murray reading their book!) Recommended Book/Resource: They recommend reading the book “Every Shot Must Have a Purpose” to get an understanding of the global concepts of VISION54.  Then read “Play Your Best Golf Now” for a more technical and practical way of practicing the essentials of the program. They also have a couple of apps for your phone to help with your practice sessions that are very helpful. What are you excited about in your near future?