In this episode of The Golf Parent Podcast, Ryan Addams sits down with Chris Parra, HeadcCoach at SMU, to pull back the curtain on what it really takes to succeed in college golf. From his early days playing professional golf in Canada to coaching elite collegiate athletes, Chris shares a rare inside look at the mental, emotional, and cultural factors that shape high performing teams.
Chris explains why resilience is one of the most important traits college coaches look for and how perfectionism can quietly hold talented juniors back. He dives into the mental skills that help players stay calm under pressure, navigate adversity, and give themselves grace during challenging rounds. Parents will gain valuable insight into how mindset and emotional maturity often matter more than raw talent.
The conversation also explores how recruiting has changed in recent years, what coaches are truly evaluating during visits, and how families can better support juniors through the transition to college golf. This episode is a must listen for golf parents who want clarity on development, recruiting, and helping their junior thrive at the next level.
🔑 Key Takeaways:
- Resilience is a defining trait for success in college golf
- Perfectionism can limit growth and performance
- Mental skills like breathing and self regulation are trainable
- Team culture matters as much as individual talent
- Recruiting now requires more initiative from players
- Parents play a critical role in emotional development
⏱️ Chapters:
00:00 Journey Through Canadian Golf
02:19 Life as a College Golf Coach
04:20 Coaching Elite Players Bryson and Austin
12:03 Resilience in Golf and Overcoming Adversity
15:32 The Perfectionist Dilemma
22:09 Mental Skills for Golf Success
30:06 Building a Winning Culture in College Golf
35:37 Transitioning to College Life as a Freshman
41:04 Recruiting Insights for Junior Golf Families
🔗 Connect with Chris Parra:
📸 Instagram: @chreisparra
🌐 Email: cjparra@smu.edu
🌐 Website: https://smumustangs.com/sports/mens-golf/roster/coaches/chris-parra/6925
🔗 Connect with The Golf Parent:
🌐 Website: https://www.thegolfparent.com/
📸 Instagram: / thegolfparent
📺 YouTube: / @thegolfparent
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In this episode of The Golf Parent Podcast, tour coach Jeff Leishman shares what truly separates elite junior golfers from everyone else and what parents need to understand if they want real long term development. Drawing on more than two decades on tour, Jeff explains how the modern role of a coach has evolved from basic swing instruction into full performanceguidance that includes preparation, support teams, and the mental and emotional side of competition.
Ryan and Jeff dig into what great coaching actually looks like, including the difference between a teacher who only gives information and a coach who develops the whole athlete. Jeff explains how he evaluates swings through power, predictability, and injury risk, why resilience and adaptability matter as much as mechanics, and how smart use of stats helps juniors focus onthe areas that truly move the needle, especially from greenside and from forty to one hundred forty yards.
Throughout the conversation Jeff shares stories from working with top players like Daniel Berger and Luke Clanton, insights on speed training and multi sport backgrounds, and honest advice on scheduling tournaments, avoiding burnout, and keeping perspective when college coaches are watching. If you are a golf parent, junior golfer, or coach, this is a clear and practical roadmap for helping young players grow in skill, mindset, and love for the game.
🔑 Key Takeaways:
• Coaching is development, not just information
• Fit and communication matter more than reputation
• Power and predictability beat “perfect” swings
• Resilience and adversity skills are trainable
• Intentional discomfort builds competitive grit
• Greenside proximity + 8–10 ft putting = scoring
• Forty to 140 yards is the most important performance zone
• Set process goals, not pressure-packed outcome goals
• Parent reactions shape how juniors feel about competing
• Support consistency over perfection or highlight moments
⏱️ Chapters:
00:00 Welcome and Sri Lanka Golf Story
05:00 Life on Tour What a Modern Touring Coach Really Does
12:00 How Players Choose Coaches and Why Style Matters
20:00 Swing Philosophy Power Predictability and Injury Risk
28:00 What Truly Separates Elite Players from the Rest
36:00 Teaching Grit Introducing Adversity and Real Consequences
46:00 The Stats That Actually Matter for Junior Golfers
56:00 Daniel Berger Luke Clanton and Long Term Development
01:05:00 Speed Training Multi Sport Backgrounds and Burnout Risk
01:15:00 Tournament Scheduling College Coaches and Being Watched
01:22:00 Final Advice for Golf Parents Around the World
🔗 Connect with Jeff Leishman:
📸 Instagram: @jeff_leishmangolf
🌐 Email: /jeffleishman@aol.com
🌐 Website: https://www.jeffleishmangolf.com
🔗 Connect with The Golf Parent:
🌐 Website: https://www.thegolfparent.com/
📸 Instagram: / thegolfparent
📺 YouTube: / @thegolfparent
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In this episode of The Golf Parent, Ryan sits down with world class coach Mark Govier to unpack what truly separates juniors who rise to the highest levels from those who stall out. Mark explains why real development goes far beyond perfect swings and long practice hours and instead depends on deeper skills like emotional resilience, intelligent practice structure, selfawareness, and long term habits that build complete athletes.
Mark breaks down the ideal developmental path for young golfers, why multi sport backgrounds create stronger and more adaptable juniors, and how parents can support their athletes without adding pressure or creating performance anxiety. He also reveals what elite practice actuallylooks like and why technical work must eventually give way to randomized and skill based training for juniors who want to compete at advanced levels.
This episode gives parents, coaches, and young players a clear roadmap for building golfers who are confident, self sufficient, emotionally steady, and prepared to perform when it matters. If you want to understand the full picture of junior golf development from foundation to performance, this conversation is a must listen.
🔑 Key Takeaways:
● The best players practice with structure and clear purpose
● Emotional stability is a major separator in tournament performance
● Juniors must learn to self coach instead of relying on constant answers
● Multi sport backgrounds help develop stronger overall athletes
● Great practice blends technical form work and randomized skill testing
● Parents must create a safe and enjoyable environment around golf
● Effective routines and breathing calm the mind under pressure
● Juniors improve fastest when they track patterns and journal consistently
● The car ride home is the danger zone and should be handled carefully
● Elite performance comes from knowing your personal formula
⏱️ Chapters:
00:00 Introduction and Mark Govier’s Coaching Background
03:20 When Kids Should Start Golf and the Value of Multi Sport Development
08:05 Foundational Skills Parents Can Build at Home Before Formal Coaching
13:40 Teacher Versus Coach and How to Build Self Coaching Juniors
18:10 How Elite Juniors Practice Differently From the Range Crowd
24:30 Developing a Personal Formula for Peak Performance
32:50 Breathing Routines and Handling Pressure on the Course
44:20 The Real Role of Golf Parents and the Car Ride Home
🔗 Connect with Mark Govier:
📸 Instagram: @elitegolfcoach_
🌐 Email: /elitegolfcoachworldwide@gmail.com
📺 YouTube: @elitegolfcoach
🌐 Website: https://www.elitegolfcoach.com
🔗 Connect with The Golf Parent:
🌐 Website: https://www.thegolfparent.com/
📸 Instagram: / thegolfparent
📺 YouTube: / @thegolfparent
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In this powerful episode of The Golf Parent Podcast, Ryan Addams sits down with longtimeStanford golf instructor Josh Zander to reveal what truly matters in junior golf development. From grip fundamentals to mental toughness to the role parents play behind the scenes, this conversation pulls back the curtain on how elite environments actually shape great players.
Josh shares why grip is the true gateway to power and consistency, how confidence with the driver separates top juniors, and why every great golfer must embrace their own unique swing. He also explains how modern technology is changing coaching while timeless mindset traits likeresilience, patience, and joy remain the real separators.
For golf parents navigating lessons, pressure, tournaments, and expectations, this episode brings clarity. It reframes what success actually looks like, why safety and enjoyment come first, and how long term growth always beats short term results.
🔑 Key Takeaways:
- Grip fundamentals shape everything in the golf swing
- Power is now a requirement not a bonus in junior golf
- Mental skills separate competitive golfers from elite golfers
- Every great golfer must own their natural swing DNA
- Parents shape the emotional environment more than any coach
- Resilience matters more than perfect mechanics
- Enjoyment fuels long term development
- College level golf is built on confidence and consistency
⏱️ Chapters:
00:00 Introduction To Josh Zander And Stanford Golf
03:03 The Evolution Of Stanford Golf Facilities
05:57 Lessons From Playing And Coaching At The Highest Level
08:43 Why Grip Is The Most Underrated Skill In Golf
11:43 Grip Pressure And Club Control
14:52 Finding The Right Grip For Your Game
17:47 Technology In Modern Golf Coaching
20:39 Confidence And Power Off The Tee
22:13 Authenticity In Golf Swings
26:45 The Parent’s Role In Junior Development
31:38 Mental Resilience In Competitive Junior Golf
40:11 How To Identify Future Golf Stars
43:36 Why The Joy Of Golf Matters Most
🔗 Connect with Josh Zander:
📸 Instagram: @zander.josh
🌐 Email: /joshzander@zandergolf.com
🔗 Connect with The Golf Parent:
🌐 Website: https://www.thegolfparent.com/
📸 Instagram: / thegolfparent
📺 YouTube: / @thegolfparent
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In this episode of The Golf Parent Podcast, Ryan sits down with elite coach Tim Cooke to reveal how juniors truly learn golf skills that last. With a rare academic background in pedagogy, biomechanics, motor learning, and sports psychology, Tim explains how young athletes develop, how their bodies move, and what actually helps a swing stay healthy over time. He shares why posture and a neutral lower spine matter, how five ball sets speed up learning, and why intention beats volume every time.
Ryan and Tim dive into what separates competitive juniors from elite juniors, how to map practice around tournament schedules, and why age sixteen becomes a defining moment in a young athlete’s commitment. They also explore burnout, multi sport development, and the mindset habits that help juniors repeat their best performances more often.
For golf parents, coaches, and junior players, this episode offers practical clarity and healthy strategies for long term growth.
🔑 Key Takeaways:
- Pedagogy reveals how juniors learn and retain skills
- Neutral lower spine protects the body as juniors grow
- Posture and setup guide consistency and power
- Five ball sets accelerate learning more than big buckets
- Skill practice must differ from performance prep
- Elite juniors show clear goals and commitment
- Sixteen is a turning point in motivation and independence
- Time off and multi sport play prevent burnout
- Parents must speak the same technical language as the coach
- Reflection helps juniors create repeatable performance states
⏱️ Chapters:
00:00 Welcome And Introduction
01:50 Tim’s Path From Division I Golf To Coaching
04:20 What Pedagogy Reveals About Learning Sports
07:10 Biomechanics And Protecting The Junior Golfer’s Back
09:50 Neutral Spine Setup And Practical Cues
12:40 How To Structure Productive Practice
15:30 Five Ball Sets And Why They Work
18:45 Skill Development Days Versus Performance Prep
21:40 Competitive Juniors Versus Elite Juniors
24:55 Mapping The College Golf Pathway
27:40 The Real Role Of Golf Parents
31:00 Burnout, Late Bloomers, And Time Off
34:10 Multi Sport Benefits In Junior Golf
37:20 Mindset And Finding A Flow State
40:15 Journaling And Repeatable Performance
43:00 The Two Phrases Every Junior Should Carry
46:00 Final Advice For Parents And Juniors
💥 Sponsor Shoutout:
This episode is sponsored by IJGA, the world’s premier junior golf academy trusted by families who want to unlock their golfer’s full potential.
🔗 Connect with IJGA:
🌐 Website: https://ijga.com/
📸 Instagram: @ijga_bishopsgate
🔗 Connect with Tim Cooke:
📸 Instagram: @timcookegolf
🌐 Email: /tcooke@seapines.com
🔗 Connect with The Golf Parent:
🌐 Website: https://www.thegolfparent.com/
📸 Instagram: / thegolfparent
📺 YouTube: / @thegolfparent
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In this eye-opening episode of The Golf Parent Podcast, Ryan Addams sits down with Scott Fawcett — former pro golfer, data-driven strategist, and creator of the DECADE system that has reshaped how elite players think about scoring. Scott breaks down the real math behind great golf and explains why smarter decisions, not prettier swings, separate top performers from everyone else.
Together, Ryan and Scott dig into the biggest myths in golf, from aiming at pins to overvaluing “feel” on the greens. Scott explains why bogey avoidance matters more than hunting birdies, how junior golfers can use data to make better choices, and why mindset and emotional control remain the ultimate separating factors on the course.
For golf parents navigating swing advice overload, this episode offers clarity, simplicity, and actionable wisdom. Scott’s insights will reshape how you coach, support, and think about your junior’s development — and why better decisions always beat harder swings.
🔑 Key Takeaways:
- Scott Fawcett’s evolution from pro golfer to strategy pioneer
- Course management is the fastest path to lower scores
- Many golf myths hold juniors back from real progress
- Mindset and emotional control matter more than perfect swings
- Golfers must balance mechanics with strategy for long-term success
- Data analysis is changing how modern golf is played
- Bogey avoidance is more valuable than chasing birdies
- Technology will continue to shape golf’s future
- Realistic expectations improve performance and enjoyment
- Systems and structure create better decisions under pressure
⏱️ Chapters:
00:00 The Genesis of a Visionary
02:51 Revolutionizing Golf with Data
06:01 Debunking Golf Myths
08:45 The Art of Target Selection
11:42 Teaching Course Management
15:10 Balancing Mechanics and Strategy
18:02 Lessons from a Hothead
20:48 Understanding Expectations in Golf
23:48 The Importance of Putting Strategy
29:12 Optimizing Putting Strategies
31:03 Mindset in Golf: Aggressive vs. Conservative
33:13 Teaching Golf to Young Players
38:54 The Importance of Distance in Golf
40:46 Mindset of Elite Golfers
44:57 Advice for Golf Parents
47:43 The DECADE App: A Game Changer
48:56 AimPoint & Tour Read: The Future of Putting
52:52 Creativity in Golf: Is It Dead?
💥 Sponsor Shoutout:
This episode is sponsored by DECADE Golf, the proven strategy platform helping juniors and pros play with clarity, confidence, and purpose.
🔗 Connect with Scott Fawcett & DECADE Golf:
🌐 Website: https://decade.golf/
📸 Instagram: @decade_golf
✉️ Email: scott@playinglesson.com
📺 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@scottfawcett3290
🔗 Connect with The Golf Parent:
🌐 Website: https://www.thegolfparent.com/
📸 Instagram: / thegolfparent
📺 YouTube: / @thegolfparent
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In this powerful episode of The Golf Parent Podcast, Ryan Addams welcomes back world-renowned coach Kevin Kirk for a deep dive into the realities of youth sports, mastery, and the modern challenges facing golf parents. Kevin shares decades of wisdom from coaching elite players, revealing why intentionality, self-awareness, and personal mastery matter far more than early success or perfect swings.
Together, Ryan and Kevin explore how parents can better understand their child’s individual journey by replacing pressure with purpose, guidance, and reflection. They discuss how to build true mental toughness, why technology can accelerate (but never replace) hard work, and how to foster a “warrior culture” rooted in resilience, curiosity, and personal responsibility.
This episode is a must-listen for golf parents, coaches, and young athletes seeking clarity in a world overwhelmed with noise and expectations. Kevin’s message is a reminder that greatness is not found in shortcuts — it’s earned through intention, introspection, and understanding the path that belongs uniquely to you.
🔑 Key Takeaways:
- Each child’s path is unique and requires individualized parenting
- Mastery begins with intentional practice and clear purpose
- Technology is helpful, but never a replacement for effort
- The unseen work behind success matters more than results
- True toughness comes from building a warrior mindset
- Introspection helps athletes align actions with goals
- Youth sports should focus on developing well-rounded athletes
- Self-awareness is essential for long-term growth
- A strong culture allows excellence to emerge
- The journey matters more than early specialization
⏱️ Chapters:
00:00 Full Circle — A Return to the Podcast
03:07 Navigating Life Transitions: Parenting to Personal Growth
05:59 Parenting Insights: Universal Truths & Individual Differences
08:39 Education in a Changing World: Teaching Critical Thinking
11:41 Technology’s Role in Golf & Mastery
14:30 Mastery: The Pathway to Success in Golf
17:35 The Mindset of a Golf Warrior
32:30 Building a Warrior Culture
38:20 The Power of Intention
42:54 Understanding Personal Goals
49:46 Navigating Youth Golf Development
01:00:41 Why Multi-Sport Participation Still Matters
💥 Sponsor Shoutout:
This episode is sponsored by IJGA, the world’s premier junior golf academy trusted by families who want to unlock their golfer’s full potential.
🔗 Connect with IJGA:
🌐 Website: https://ijga.com/
📸 Instagram: @ijga_bishopsgate
🔗 Connect with Kevin Kirk:
📸 Instagram: @kevinkirkgolf
🌐 Email: / kkirk@pga.com
🔗 Connect with The Golf Parent:
🌐 Website: https://www.thegolfparent.com/
📸 Instagram: / thegolfparent
📺 YouTube: / @thegolfparent
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The college golf recruiting process can feel like a mystery — for both parents and players. In this episode, Coach Todd Oehrlein pulls back the curtain on how college programs actually evaluate prospective student-athletes, what separates elite recruits from the rest, and how parents can best support their junior golfers through the emotional rollercoaster of commitments, calls, and expectations.
first DM exchanges to analyzing phone calls and understanding academic fit. He explains why patience, passion, and emotional control are just as important as swing mechanics — and how the right mindset can make all the difference when a scholarship offer is on the line.
For golf parents navigating the recruiting maze, this is a must-listen episode that will help you guide your child with confidence, clarity, and perspective.
🔑 Key Takeaways:
- The recruitment process starts with real conversations, not just stats
- Academic fit is a major factor for both schools and athletes
- Verbal commitments come before written ones — patience matters
- Coaches value relentlessness, passion, and self-awareness over perfection
- Parents should balance support with realistic expectations
- Debriefing after tournaments builds resilience and growth
- Emotional regulation is a key differentiator in performance
⏱️ Chapters:
00:00 Introduction to Mike Thomas: The Golf Parent’s Perspective
02:54 The Journey of a Golf Parent: Plans and Intentions
05:53 Recognizing Talent: Moments of Realization
08:46 The Balance of Coaching and Parenting
11:55 Key Personality Traits of Successful Junior Golfers
15:01 Navigating Modern Parenting in Junior Golf
17:39 The Role of Structure and Passion in Development
20:59 Understanding Parent-Child Dynamics in Sports
23:57 Maintaining a Healthy Parent-Coach Relationship
26:36 The Role of Parents in Golf Instruction
27:44 Overrated and Underrated Aspects of Golf Instruction
31:21 Mental Game and Self-Talk in Golf
33:40 Physical Preparation and Training for Golf
36:33 A Week in the Life of a Professional Golfer
42:32 Staying Fit and Flexible as a Golfer
45:35 Looking Ahead: Future Aspirations and Excitement
48:42 Advice for Golf Parents
💥 Sponsor Shoutout:
This episode is sponsored by Caddy Daddy, trusted by golfers and parents who want durable, innovative gear that protects their equipment and travels as hard as they play.
🔗 Connect with Todd Oehrlein:
🌐 Email: / TSO@athletics.wisc.edu
🔗 Connect with Caddy Daddy:
🌐 Website: https://caddydaddygolf.com/
📸 Instagram: @caddydaddygolf
🔗 Connect with The Golf Parent:
🌐 Website: https://www.thegolfparent.com/
📸 Instagram: / thegolfparent
📺 YouTube: / @thegolfparent
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Welcome to The Golf Parent, where golf’s top minds share the secrets and systems that help your junior golfer win—on and off the course.
In this episode, Ryan sits down with Andrew Summers, the founder and visionary behind the International Junior Golf Academy (IJGA). From its private golf course to its 100-student cap, IJGA redefines what quality training and holistic development look like. Andrew shares how theacademy blends world-class coaching, fitness training, and academic excellence within a culturally diverse environment that helps young athletes mature into disciplined, confident, and globally aware individuals.
Parents will hear what questions to ask when choosing a boarding-school-style golf academy, how independence and character shape long-term success, and why “golf heaven” isn’t just about perfect fairways—it’s about preparing kids for life beyond the game.
🔑 Key Takeaways:
- IJGA delivers elite training with a private golf course and world-class coaches
- Capping enrollment at 100 ensures individual attention and quality development
- Independence and character are central to the IJGA philosophy
- Cultural diversity creates empathy, perspective, and maturity
- Fitness is essential for both performance and injury prevention
- Academic partnerships support balanced student-athlete growth
- Parents should do their due diligence when evaluating golf academies
- Summer and winter camps introduce younger golfers to academy life
⏱️ Chapters:
00:00 – Welcome & Introduction to IJGA
03:03 – Building “Golf Heaven” in Florida
05:54 – Why Capping Enrollment at 100 Matters
08:53 – Year-Round Golf and Growth Opportunities
11:54 – The Boarding-School Advantage
14:48 – Developing Independence & Character
17:41 – Cultural Diversity and Peer Influence
21:02 – Life, Food, and Community at IJGA
27:00 – The Role of Fitness in Junior Golf
34:55 – Academic Excellence & School Partnerships
49:56 – Choosing the Right Academy for Your Child
55:40 – Summer and Winter Camp Pathways
01:02:56 – Final Thoughts on Golf, Growth, and Character
💥 Sponsor Shoutout:
This episode is sponsored by IJGA, the world’s premier junior golf academy trusted by families who want to unlock their golfer’s full potential.
🔗 Connect with Andrew Summers:
🌐 Email: / Andrew.summers@IJGA.com
🔗 Connect with IJGA:
🌐 Website: https://ijga.com/
📸 Instagram: ijga_bishopsgate
🔗 Connect with The Golf Parent:
🌐 Website: https://www.thegolfparent.com/
📸 Instagram: / thegolfparent
📺 YouTube: / @thegolfparent
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In this episode, Ryan sits down with Christina Lecuyer, former professional golfer turned confidence coach, to explore what real confidence means in sports and life. Christina’s story — from picking up golf at 18 to competing professionally — is proof that mindset, not mechanics, often determines success.
Christina shares powerful lessons on detaching self-worth from performance, finding joy in the process, and helping young athletes build internal confidence instead of chasing external validation.
Whether your junior golfer is struggling with confidence, pressure, or perfectionism, this conversation offers practical tools and emotional insight to help them (and you) redefine what winning really looks like.
🔑 Key Takeaways:
- Confidence built on results fades — confidence built within lasts
- Playing with better competition sharpens performance and resilience
- Hard work and belief can overcome a late start
- External validation leads to burnout; internal validation builds peace
- Failure and discomfort are necessary for growth
- Affirmations and positive self-talk shape mindset
- Success means joy, not just achievement
- Detach your self-worth from your scorecard
⏱️ Chapters:
00:00 – Christina’s Journey from Late Start to Pro
09:52 – What Confidence Really Is (and Isn’t)
20:06 – The Trap of External Validation
29:48 – How to Separate Self-Worth from Performance
37:10 – The Power of Affirmations & Mindset Work
41:33 – Helping the Next Generation Build True Confidence
48:22 – Redefining Success in Golf and Life
🔗 Connect with Christina Lecuyer:
📸 Instagram: @Bechristina
🔗 Connect with The Golf Parent:
🌐 Website: https://www.thegolfparent.com/
📸 Instagram: / thegolfparent
📺 YouTube: / @thegolfparent
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In this episode of The Golf Parent Podcast, Ryan Adams sits down with Mike Thomas. Thomas is a veteran golf instructor and father of PGA Tour star Justin Thomas, for an honest conversation about the realities of raising a young golfer.
Mike shares what it was really like guiding his son from junior golf to the professional stage, and what he learned about balancing the roles of coach and parent. He reveals why pushing too hard can backfire, why emotional support matters more than technical advice, and how the mental side of golf often separates the great from the good.
The conversation also dives into the evolution of junior golf, the importance of physical fitness and flexibility, and the lessons parents can take from his decades of coaching experience. Whether your junior is just starting out or chasing college golf dreams, this episode offers timeless advice on nurturing passion, patience, and purpose in the game.
🔑 Key Takeaways:
- Golf should stay fun, especially for juniors
- Pushing too hard can hurt long-term passion and growth
- Parents must support emotionally, not just technically
- Successful juniors combine passion with self-discipline
- The junior golf landscape has evolved rapidly
- Balancing parent and coach roles is essential
- Every player’s swing and path should be individual
- Mental game and self-talk define consistency and success
- Physical strength and flexibility support longevity in golf
⏱️ Chapters:
00:00 Introduction to Mike Thomas: The Golf Parent’s Perspective
02:54 The Journey of a Golf Parent: Plans and Intentions
05:53 Recognizing Talent: Moments of Realization
08:46 The Balance of Coaching and Parenting
11:55 Key Personality Traits of Successful Junior Golfers
15:01 Navigating Modern Parenting in Junior Golf
17:39 The Role of Structure and Passion in Development
20:59 Understanding Parent-Child Dynamics in Sports
23:57 Maintaining a Healthy Parent-Coach Relationship
26:36 The Role of Parents in Golf Instruction
27:44 Overrated and Underrated Aspects of Golf Instruction
31:21 Mental Game and Self-Talk in Golf
33:40 Physical Preparation and Training for Golf
36:33 A Week in the Life of a Professional Golfer
42:32 Staying Fit and Flexible as a Golfer
45:35 Looking Ahead: Future Aspirations and Excitement
48:42 Advice for Golf Parents
💥 Sponsor Shoutout:
This episode is sponsored by IJGA, the world’s premier junior golf academy trusted by families who want to unlock their golfer’s full potential.
🔗 Connect with Mike Thomas:
📸 Instagram: @mikethomaspga
🔗 Connect with The Golf Parent:
🌐 Website: https://www.thegolfparent.com/
📸 Instagram: / thegolfparent
📺 YouTube: / @thegolfparent
🎧 All Episodes: Spotify | Apple Podcasts | YouTube
On this episode of The Golf Parent Podcast, Ryan Adams sits down with Ryan Degale to unpack one of the most overlooked issues in junior golf: back health. While many parents and coaches focus on swing mechanics, scores, and tournament schedules, the reality is that golf can put serious strain on the spine, especially for young players.
Ryan shares why golf is uniquely dangerous for the back, the most common training mistakes juniors make, and how poor habits at a young age can lead to injuries like scoliosis over time. He emphasizes the importance of mobility, flexibility, strength conditioning, and proper training routines to keep juniors healthy while developing their game.
The conversation also dives into the role of hydration and nutrition in maintaining back health, the misconceptions created by social media, and why warm-up and cool-down routines should never be ignored. Parents will walk away with practical tools and a fresh perspective on how to protect their child’s long-term health and success in golf.
🔑 Key Takeaways:
- Golf is particularly dangerous for the back due to its mechanics
- Many junior golfers train like athletes in other sports, which can cause injuries
- Strength conditioning and awareness are critical for young golfers
- Improper swing mechanics over time can contribute to scoliosis
- Flexibility and mobility training prevent injuries and build longevity
- Hydration and nutrition are essential for back health
- Common misconceptions about back training lead to mistakes
- Warm-up and cool-down routines are often ignored but vital
- Social media can mislead juniors with unrealistic training examples
- Excessive deadlifting can be harmful for golfers’ backs
⏱️ Chapters:
00:00 The Dangers of Golf for the Back
06:44 Importance of Mobility and Core Strength
12:42 Running and Its Impact on Golf Performance
20:12 Hydration and Nutrition for Back Health
29:55 Training the Next Generation of Golfers
💥 Sponsor Shoutout:
This episode is sponsored by IJGA, the world’s premier junior golf academy trusted by families who want to unlock their golfer’s full potential.
🔗 Connect with Ryan DeGale:
📸 Instagram: @Golfandbody_
📱Phone: (954) 401-0936
🌐 Website: Golfandbody.com
🔗 Connect with The Golf Parent:
🌐 Website: https://www.thegolfparent.com/
📸 Instagram: / thegolfparent
📺 YouTube: / @thegolfparent
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In this episode of The Golf Parent Podcast, Ryan Adams sits down with Andrew Lewis to break down the realities of junior golf development and the future of the game in America. From the rise of Texas as a golf hotbed to the importance of tournament experience, Andrew shares insights that every parent of a junior golfer needs to hear.
This conversation goes far beyond swing mechanics. Andrew opens up about the role of parents in building a positive environment, the value caddies bring to young players, and how patience can be the difference between burnout and long-term success. He also provides a candid look at the evolving college golf recruiting process, the impact of NIL, and what it really takes to stand out in an increasingly competitive field.
If you’re a golf parent wondering how to support your child’s journey, build resilience, and keep the joy alive in the game, this episode will give you the clarity and confidence you need.
🔑 Key Takeaways:
- Texas is becoming a hub for junior golf development
- Tournament experience is essential for young players
- True skills development covers every part of the game
- Parents should focus on conversations of improvement, not criticism
- Burnout comes from stress more than overplaying
- Caddies can provide valuable support and strategy
- College recruitment starts early, but kids can reach out to coaches first
- Competition for college golf spots is getting tougher
- NIL opportunities are growing but require patience
- The love of the game should always come first
⏱️ Chapters:
00:00 Introduction and Background
02:54 The Future of American Golf
06:06 Developing Elite Junior Golfers
08:56 Tournament Experience and Burnout Concerns
11:44 Parenting and Coaching Dynamics
14:49 Caddying and Junior Golf Opportunities
17:38 Navigating College Golf Recruitment
20:44 Recruiting and Team Dynamics in Junior Golf
21:29 Changes in College Golf Regulations
24:12 The Impact of NIL on Junior Golf
26:13 Focus and Emotional Regulation in Junior Golf
30:34 Parental Guidance and Support
33:03 Fostering Enjoyment and Curiosity in Young Golfers
35:05 Finding the Right Junior Golf Coaches
37:40 Creating Structured Training Routines
40:51 The Long Journey of Junior Golf Development💥 Sponsor Shoutout:
This episode is sponsored by IJGA, the world’s premier junior golf academy trusted by families who want to unlock their golfer’s full potential.🔗 Connect with Andrew lewis:
📸 Instagram: @Andrewlewisgolf
🌐 Email: Ajlewispga84@gmail.com
🌐 Website: https://bio.site/alewisgolf
🔗 Connect with The Golf Parent:
🌐 Website: https://www.thegolfparent.com/
📸 Instagram: / thegolfparent
📺 YouTube: / @thegolfparent
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In this episode of The Golf Parent, Ryan Adams sits down with legendary coach Mike Schy, the man who guided Bryson DeChambeau through his junior career and helped bring the groundbreaking Avoda golf club to life. Mike pulls back the curtain on the science of equipment innovation, from curved clubfaces to one-length shafts, and explains why custom fitting is non-negotiable for serious golfers.
But this conversation is about much more than gear. Mike reveals the mindset shifts junior golfers need most, why curiosity and experimentation fuel progress, and how positive language changes confidence. He shares his no-nonsense perspective on what golf parents should (and shouldn’t) do, emphasizing that the parent’s role is to support, not coach.
Whether you’re fascinated by golf’s future or looking for the best way to help your junior golfer thrive, this episode is full of lessons from one of the game’s most respected minds.
🔑 Key Takeaways:
-Avoda was built specifically for Bryson DeChambeau
-Curved clubfaces could redefine the future of golf
-One-length shafts are gaining momentum among players
-Custom fitting is the fastest way to improve performance
-Non-conforming clubs teach important lessons about the game
-Work ethic & curiosity drive long-term junior golf success
-Positive language changes confidence & self-belief instantly
-Parents should support, not coach, during competition-Enjoyment of the game is the key to lasting success
⏱️ Chapters:
00:00 Introduction and Technical Challenges
05:13 History of Golf Club Design
12:21 Understanding Non-Conforming Clubs
20:55 Curiosity and Experimentation in Golf
26:19 Parent-Child Dynamics in Junior Golf
31:35 The Ideal Golf Parent
38:51 Player Preferences in Golf Training
45:52 The Golfing Machine Framework
52:51 Positive Evaluations and Learning
01:00:46 Becoming the Casino: Strategic Golf Decisions
💥 Sponsor Shoutout:This episode is sponsored by IJGA, the world’s premier junior golf academy trusted by families who want to unlock their golfer’s full potential.
🔗 Connect with Mike Schy:
📸 Instagram: @Mikeschygolf
🌐 Email: Schygolf@gmail.com
🌐 Website: Mikeschy.com
🔗 Connect with The Golf Parent:
🌐 Website: https://www.thegolfparent.com/
📸 Instagram: / thegolfparent
📺 YouTube: / @thegolfparent
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This week on The Golf Parent, Ryan Adams sits down with world-renowned coach and sports scientist Tom House to uncover the secrets behind athletic performance and development. Known for his groundbreaking work in biomechanics with elite athletes across baseball, football, and golf, Tom shares how balance, sequencing, and timing are the real keys to long-term success.
Parents and juniors will discover why early specialization can actually limit potential, and how critical “windows of trainability” shape young athletes before adolescence. From using technology to capture what the human eye can’t see, to the power of play, stress management, and visualization, Tom’s insights are a game-changer for anyone guiding a young golfer’s journey.
This episode isn’t just about sports science—it’s about helping your child fall in love with the process, embrace failure as learning, and build habits that last a lifetime.
🔑 Key Takeaways:
- Tom House’s journey into biomechanics was unplanned but revolutionary
- Motion analysis reveals what the human eye cannot capture
- Balance is the most important factor in golf performance
- Timing and sequencing are critical to athletic success
- Early specialization can hurt long-term athletic growth
- Neurological training windows matter most before adolescence
- Technology provides instant, objective feedback for athletes
- Athletes must adapt to growth and body changes
- Play and fun are essential to development
- Visualization is a proven tool for performance under pressure
- Parents should prioritize the child’s joy over their own expectations
⏱️ Chapters:
00:00 The Journey of Tom House
03:06 Understanding Biomechanics in Sports
06:00 Timing and Kinematic Sequencing
09:00 The Role of Balance in Performance
11:52 Windows of Trainability for Youth Athletes
14:59 The Dangers of Early Specialization
18:07 Technology’s Impact on Training
21:12 The Future of Athletic Development
23:59 Building the Complete Athlete
28:34 Balance, Speed, and Energy Transfer
32:36 The Importance of Play in Youth Sports
35:02 Managing Stress and Anxiety
43:12 Visualization as a Performance Tool
51:11 Advice for Sports Parents
💥 Sponsor Shoutout:
This episode is sponsored by IJGA, the world’s premier junior golf academy trusted by families who want to unlock their golfer’s full potential.
🔗 Connect with Tom House:
📸 Instagram: @Tomhousesports
🌐 Email: tomhouse@teammstrd.com
🌐 Website: https://teammstrd.com/golf/
📺 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@teamMSTRD
🔗 Connect with The Golf Parent:
🌐 Website: https://www.thegolfparent.com/
📸 Instagram: / thegolfparent
📺 YouTube: / @thegolfparent
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In this episode of The Golf Parent Podcast, Ryan Addams sits down with Casey VanDamme, head coach of the Kent State women’s golf team, to uncover what it really takes to thrive in junior and college golf. Casey shares how self-belief, resilience, and effective practice habits shape great players, and why building a championship culture is about far more than just talent.
In this episode of The Golf Parent Podcast, Ryan Addams sits down with Casey VanDamme, head coach of the Kent State women’s golf team, to uncover what it really takes to thrive in junior and college golf. Casey shares how self-belief, resilience, and effective practice habits shape great players, and why building a championship culture is about far more than just talent.
He breaks down the recruitment process step by step, explains the differences between college golf divisions, and sheds light on how the transfer portal has reshaped opportunities for players. Parents will gain practical advice on how to guide their juniors, from setting realistic goals to finding the right program fit, while juniors will hear firsthand why pressure should be viewed as a privilege and why golf’s failures can actually fuel success.
Whether your child dreams of playing college golf or simply wants to grow through the game, this episode offers invaluable lessons on mindset, preparation, and finding alignment between player aspirations and program vision.
🔑 Key Takeaways:
- Building a strong culture requires recruiting players with self-belief
- Pressure in sports can be viewed as a privilege
- Golf is fundamentally a game of failure and resilience
- Effective practice habits are crucial for improvement
- Understanding the recruitment process is key for aspiring golfers
- Different college divisions offer varying opportunities for golfers
- The transfer portal has changed the landscape of college athletics
- Parents should help their children identify their goals in golf
- It's important for players to find a program that aligns with their aspirations
- Everything in a player's life can impact their performance in golf
⏱️ Chapters:
00:00 – Building a Championship Culture
02:54 – The Role of Self-Belief in Golf
05:47 – Developing Grit and Resilience
09:01 – Effective Practice Habits
12:00 – Navigating the Recruitment Process
14:39 – Understanding College Golf Divisions
18:04 – The Transfer Portal and Its Implications
20:58 – Advice for Parents of Aspiring Golfers
💥 Sponsor Shoutout:
This episode is sponsored by IJGA, the world’s premier junior golf academy trusted by families who want to unlock their golfer’s full potential.
🔗 Connect with Coach Casey VanDamme:
📸 Instagram: @caseyvandamme
🌐 Email: cvandam1@kent.edu
🔗 Connect with The Golf Parent:
🌐 Website: https://www.thegolfparent.com/
📸 Instagram: / thegolfparent
📺 YouTube: / @thegolfparent
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In this episode of The Golf Parent Podcast, host Ryan Addams welcomes acclaimed junior golf coach Ed Oldham to break down what truly drives success for young golfers today.
Ed shares why junior golf has more opportunities than ever, how COVID-19 unexpectedly boosted youth participation, and why balance—not burnout—should guide a child’s athletic journey. The discussion dives into why early specialization can do more harm than good, how understanding key fundamentals like face and path relationship impacts long-term performance, and why rewarding effort over results creates resilient athletes.
Parents will learn how to provide the right kind of support, coaches will gain insights into blending technology with fundamentals, and juniors will be reminded that the best golfers combine athleticism with joy for the game.Whether your child is just starting out or competing at an elite level, this episode delivers actionable insights to help them grow, thrive, and most importantly, love the game.
🔑 Key Takeaways:
Kids have more opportunities in junior golf now than ever before
COVID-19 has positively impacted youth participation in golf- PGA Junior League provides a team aspect that kids enjoy
Early specialization in sports can be detrimental; exposure to multiple sports is beneficial.
Skill development should focus on face and path relationship in golf swings
Understanding the importance of ground impact is crucial for golfers
A growth mindset is essential for success in golf and life
Parental support should focus on encouragement rather than coaching
Technology can enhance training but should not overshadow the fundamentals of the game
The best junior golfers combine athletic ability with a strong work ethic
⏱️ Chapters:
00:00 – The State of Junior Golf Today
02:57 – The Role of Coaching and Early Specialization
05:49 – Skill Development vs. Technique
09:07 – Understanding the Face and Path Relationship
12:00 – Preparing for Tournaments: Mindset and Practice
14:53 – The Importance of Parental Support
17:44 – Technology in Golf: Balancing Old and New
20:53 – Cultivating a Growth Mindset
23:48 – Identifying Trends in Successful Junior Golfers
26:39 – The Future of Junior Golf: Opportunities and Challenges
💥 Sponsor Shoutout: This episode is sponsored by Tour Striker, trusted by the world’s best coaches and golf parents who want real progress.
🔥 Use code GOLFPARENT (all caps) at www.tourstriker.com for 15% off everything — even sale items. Whether your junior golfer is chasing a scholarship or just trying to break 90, Tour Striker is a game-changer.
🔗 Connect with Coach Ed Oldham
:📸 Instagram: @Edoldhamgolf
🌐 Website: https://www.edoldhamgolf.com/
🔗 Connect with The Golf Parent:
🌐 Website: https://www.thegolfparent.com/
📸 Instagram: / thegolfparent
📺 YouTube: / @thegolfparent
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In this episode of The Golf Parent Podcast, Ryan Addams sits down with professional golfer Canon Claycomb to uncover the realities of growing up in junior golf and chasing the dream of playing professionally. Canon shares his journey from early days as a junior golfer to competing on the biggest stages, reflecting on how playing multiple sports shaped his athletic foundation and why family support was critical to his development.The conversation explores the pressures that parents sometimes place on young athletes, the lessons learned from the college recruitment process, and how the transition from junior to college to professional golf can be both exciting and overwhelming. Canon opens up about the financial challenges of life as a young pro, the importance of setting realistic goals, and whyenjoying the journey is just as important as achieving the dream. Parents and juniors alike will walk away with valuable insights into what it takes to succeed — not just in golf, but in life.🔑 Key Takeaways:Playing multiple sports can enhance athletic skills.Family support is crucial for young athletes.Parental pressure can hinder a child's performance.College golf offers valuable mentorship and experience.The recruitment process can be overwhelming for young golfers.Professional golf comes with financial challenges.Setting realistic goals is essential for success.The transition to professional golf can feel lonely.Enjoying the journey is key for young athletes.⏱️ Chapters:00:00 - Introduction to Canon Claycomb02:49 - The Debate on Early Specialization in Sports05:50 - The Role of Family Support in Athletic Development08:45 - The Impact of Parental Pressure on Young Athletes12:04 - The Transition from Junior Golf to College Golf15:08 - The Recruitment Process for Collegiate Golf17:56 - The Financial Realities of Professional Golf20:45 - Setting Goals as a Professional Golfer23:57 - The Loneliness of Professional Golf26:54 - Advice for Parents and Junior Golfers💥 Sponsor Shoutout:This episode is sponsored by Tour Striker, trusted by the world’s best coaches and golf parents who want real progress.🔥 Use code GOLFPARENT (all caps) at www.tourstriker.com for 15% off everything — even sale items. Whether your junior golfer is chasing a scholarship or just trying to break 90, Tour Striker is a game-changer.🔗 Connect with Canon Claycomb:📸 Instagram: @Canonclaycomb🔗 Connect with The Golf Parent:🌐 Website: https://www.thegolfparent.com/📸 Instagram: / thegolfparent 📺 YouTube: / @thegolfparent 🎧 All Episodes: Spotify | Apple Podcasts | YouTube
What does it take to guide a junior golfer from their first swing… all the way to winning multiple major championships? In this episode, Ryan Addams sits down with Dr. Rick Sessinghaus — Colin Morikawa’s lifelong mental coach — to reveal the mindset, habits, and parenting approaches that shape champions.
From building confidence before tournaments to handling the pressure of the world stage, Dr. Rick breaks down the same mental tools he’s been teaching Colin for nearly two decades. You’ll learn how to keep your child’s love for golf alive, prevent burnout, and help them perform when it matters most.
If you’ve ever wondered how to develop a resilient, confident, and happy young golfer — this is the playbook.
🔑 Key Takeaways:
Results-only thinking can destroy a junior golfer’s passion.
Confidence comes from preparation, not praise alone.
Pre-shot routines should address the mind, emotions, and body.
Visualization helps players perform under pressure.
“Anchoring the good ones” locks in positive memories and feelings.
Parents should model composure and resilience on the course.
Performance anxiety often stems from fear of future outcomes.
Development beats rankings in the long run.
⏱️ Chapters:
00:00 – Intro + Colin Morikawa’s Early Years with Dr. Rick
02:33 – Development Over Outcome: The Winning Mindset
06:40 – Understanding and Easing Performance Anxiety
10:07 – How to Build Resilience in Young Athletes
12:14 – Curiosity as a Secret Training Weapon
16:22 – The 3-Part Pre-Shot Routine for Consistency
18:55 – Anchoring Positive Moments for Confidence
25:09 – Identity Beyond the Scorecard
29:57 – Visualization Drills Used at the Pro Level
34:46 – Learning from Mistakes Without Judgment
42:02 – Dr. Rick’s Final Advice for Parents
💥 Sponsor Shoutout:
This episode is sponsored by Tour Striker, trusted by the world’s best coaches and golf parents who want real progress.
🔥 Use code GOLFPARENT (all caps) at www.tourstriker.com for 15% off everything — even sale items. Whether your junior golfer is chasing a scholarship or just trying to break 90, Tour Striker is a game-changer.
🔗 Connect with Dr. Rick Sessinghaus:
🌐 Website: https://theflowcode.com/golf-academy/
📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flowcodegolf/
🔗 Connect with The Golf Parent:
🌐 Website: https://www.thegolfparent.com/
📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thegolfparent/
📺 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thegolfparent
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💥 Sponsor Shoutout:
This episode is sponsored by Puttview Books — trusted by the game’s best, including world #1 putting coach Phil Kenyon. With over 30,000 courses fully mapped, Putview’s yardage and green-reading books give your junior golfer a Tour-level edge.
📘 Sign up for their newsletter at www.puttviewbooks.com and get 20% off your first purchase.
Junior golf success isn’t just about perfecting a swing—it’s about mastering the mental game. In this episode of The Golf Parent, Ryan sits down with mental performance coach Ben Esposito to talk through the hidden side of junior development.
Ben shares how his own journey from high-level golfer to mindset coach led him to work with competitive juniors on breathing techniques, emotional regulation, and performance strategies.
He explains how tracking stats, setting personal standards, and preparing mentally before every round can separate good players from great ones.
Parents will hear how to better support their young athletes without adding pressure, why silence on the course is often a sign of growth, and how the short game acts as a critical confidence booster. This episode is full of actionable advice to help you understand what’s really happening between your child’s ears during competition.
🔑 Key Takeaways:
● Start working on your mental game earlier
● Set personal standards instead of comparing to others
● Tracking stats can show improvement and help with recruiting
● Make practice harder to simulate tournament pressure
● Breathing techniques help manage nerves during play
● Understand course strategy based on personal strengths
● Yardage books provide valuable information for decision making
● Self-awareness is key to long-term success
● A strong short game builds confidence
● Mental coaching significantly impacts performance
⏱️ Chapters:
00:00 – Ben's Journey in Golf and Mental Coaching
02:57 – Advice for Young Golfers and Parents
05:59 – Tracking Progress and Stats for Improvement
08:42 – Managing Nerves and Mental Techniques
11:55 – Breathing Techniques and Mental Checklists
14:57 – Understanding Course Strategy and Decision Making
27:40 – Using Yardage and Green Books Effectively
38:45 – Final Thoughts on Mental Game and Short Game Safety Nets
🔗 Connect with Ben Esposito:
🌐 Website: https://inthegolfzone.com/
📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_inthegolfzone
🐦 X (Twitter): https://x.com/_InTheGolfZone
🎵 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@inthegolfzone
💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ben-esposito-a0706a20b/
📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/InTheGolfZone
🔗 Connect with The Golf Parent:
🌐 Website: https://www.thegolfparent.com/
📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thegolfparent
📺 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thegolfparent
🎵 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thegolfparent
🐦 X (Twitter): https://x.com/thegolfparent
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