The Spin Axis - Golf Podcast

Recent episodes

1. 073: Our Biggest Instructional Pet Peeves (with Mike Granato) from The Spin Axis - Golf Podcast

   Jul 28, 202625 min

   Mike Granato returns to join the guys for a candid discussion about some of their biggest pet peeves in golf instruction. They tackle common myths and bad ideas, including the idea of the “effortless” golf swing, instructors relying on their own feels instead of measurable reality, demonstrations that don’t actually help students, and the growing or ongoing misuse of ground reaction forces and 2D video analysis. Along the way, they explain why good coaching should be grounded in objective data, clear communication, and an understanding of how golfers truly move, NOT just how someone thinks they move. If you’ve ever wondered why so much conflicting advice exists online, this episode offers an inside look at what experienced instructors wish would disappear from the game. Hosts: Erik J. Barzeski, Jayson Nickol, Tyson Deskins — If you enjoyed this episode, please share that with us and your friends on Instagram @thespinaxis or Twitter/X @thespinaxis . You can also share or visit our site at https://thespinaxis.com/ .

2. 072: Mike Granato on Stack & Tilt, Measurements, and Missing the Windows from The Spin Axis - Golf Podcast

   Jul 21, 202632 min

   Mike Granato from Athletic Motion Golf (AMG) joins the podcast to examine something that’s a hot topic amongst a certain small group of instructors on social media: Stack & Tilt and its claims about what the best players actually do in their golf swings. Using 3D motion capture data from GEARS and force plate data, the discussion looks at where some commonly cited S&T measurements fail to match the actual movement patterns of elite golfers. The group breaks down four major areas: 1) lateral pelvis movement, 2) trail elbow bend, hand path, and abduction/adduction, 3) lead shoulder motion, and 4) and trail knee behavior. The guys compare the “ideal” positions often taught with the ranges and windows seen in the world’s best players. Rather than just criticizing an outdated model of the golf swing, this episode explores why understanding real data and player variability matters when building better instruction. Hosts: Erik J. Barzeski, Jayson Nickol, Tyson Deskins — If you enjoyed this episode, please share that with us and your friends on Instagram @thespinaxis or Twitter/X @thespinaxis . You can also share or visit our site at https://thespinaxis.com/ .

3. 071: Quick Hits — Equipment Topics on Our Minds from The Spin Axis - Golf Podcast

   Jul 14, 202625 min

   In this rapid-fire equipment episode, Erik, Jayson, and Tyson each bring a different gear topic to the table and dive into the details behind what’s on their minds these days. They discuss the rise of mini drivers and why some players may not need a traditional 3-wood anymore, and how equipment choices should reflect modern strategy and player ability. The conversation also covers wedge fitting, including lie angle and bounce considerations, before wrapping up with the ongoing debate around putters, from zero-torque designs to finding the right length, weight, and style for your stroke. Hosts: Erik J. Barzeski, Jayson Nickol, Tyson Deskins Sponsor: Carl’s Place ( https://carlofet.com ) – Listen to the Episode for a coupon code! — If you enjoyed this episode, please share that with us and your friends on Instagram @thespinaxis or Twitter/X @thespinaxis . You can also share or visit our site at https://thespinaxis.com/ .

4. 070: Snake Draft — Why Golfers Don’t Get Better from The Spin Axis - Golf Podcast

   Jul 7, 202622 min

   Why do so many golfers plateau despite taking lessons and practicing regularly? In this fun, snake-draft-style episode, Erik, Jayson, and Tyson each select what they believe are the biggest reasons players fail to improve. The picks include a lack of commitment, focusing on outcomes instead of the process, making changes that are too small to create real movement, practicing without objective feedback, chasing symptoms instead of root causes, and trying to fix too many things at once. Along the way, the discussion highlights practical ways golfers can practice with more purpose and finally break through to the next level. Hosts: Erik J. Barzeski, Jayson Nickol, Tyson Deskins — If you enjoyed this episode, please share that with us and your friends on Instagram @thespinaxis or Twitter/X @thespinaxis . You can also share or visit our site at https://thespinaxis.com/ .

5. 069: Should You Copy Your Favorite Tour Player’s Swing? from The Spin Axis - Golf Podcast

   Jun 30, 202617 min

   Is copying your favorite Tour player the fastest path to better golf or a recipe for frustration? In this episode, Erik, Jayson, and Tyson discuss why elite players developed their swings over decades, often beginning in childhood, and why trying to duplicate the finished product rarely works. They explain how mobility, athleticism, and individual tendencies shape every great swing, making direct comparisons misleading even among players with similar body types. Instead, they suggest borrowing pieces that fit your game, like setup, practice habits, or a specific movement, while building a swing that works for you, not someone else. Hosts: Erik J. Barzeski, Jayson Nickol, Tyson Deskins Sponsor: Cobalt Golf ( https://cobalt-golf.com/ ) – Save 10% with the code “SPINAXIS”! — If you enjoyed this episode, please share that with us and your friends on Instagram @thespinaxis or Twitter/X @thespinaxis . You can also share or visit our site at https://thespinaxis.com/ .

6. 068: Building a Home Golf Simulator at Any Budget from The Spin Axis - Golf Podcast

   Jun 23, 202625 min

   Thinking about building a home golf simulator but not sure where to start? In this episode, Mike from Carl’s Place joins the show to break down realistic simulator setups at four popular budget levels: roughly $2,000, $5,000, $12,500, and $25,000. The conversation covers where serious golfers should spend money first, when upgrades begin to provide meaningful value, and how launch monitors, projectors, computers, mats, and enclosures fit into the equation. We cater this discussion toward the more serious golfer, and will recommend better launch monitors over the simulator experience at several points. This episode offers practical guidance on getting the most performance for your budget while avoiding common mistakes. Hosts: Erik J. Barzeski, Jayson Nickol, Tyson Deskins Sponsor: Carl’s Place ( https://carlofet.com ) – Listen to a Previously Sponsored episode for a coupon code! — If you enjoyed this episode, please share that with us and your friends on Instagram @thespinaxis or Twitter/X @thespinaxis . You can also share or visit our site at https://thespinaxis.com/ .

7. 067: Preparing for a Member-Member, Member-Guest, or Club Tournament from The Spin Axis - Golf Podcast

   Jun 16, 202621 min

   Whether it’s a member-member, member-guest, club championship, or another big event on your calendar, preparation can make the difference between feeling ready and feeling overwhelmed. In this episode, the guys discuss how to structure your practice leading into a tournament, why over-training in the final days often backfires, and the importance of arriving with a clear strategy rather than searching for your swing. They cover sharpening your short game, managing your energy and recovery, and developing tee-shot plans before the first round begins. The conversation also touches on a reality of many member events: they’re often won by players who make smart decisions, avoid big mistakes, and stay fresh mentally and physically over multiple days—not necessarily those who hit the most spectacular shots. They’re also often won by the handicap managers out there, so maybe don’t stress too hard over it, eh? Hosts: Erik J. Barzeski, Jayson Nickol, Tyson Deskins Sponsor: Carl’s Place ( https://carlofet.com ) – Listen to the Episode for a coupon code! — If you enjoyed this episode, please share that with us and your friends on Instagram @thespinaxis or Twitter/X @thespinaxis . You can also share or visit our site at https://thespinaxis.com/ .member guest, member member, club tournament, tournament preparation, golf strategy, tournament golf, short game practice, golf planning, tee shot strategy, golf recovery, pre-tournament practice, golf competition, club championship, golf mindset, tournament performance

8. 066: How to Practice Golf on Vacation (Without a Club) from The Spin Axis - Golf Podcast

   Jun 9, 202618 min

   Just because you’re away from the course doesn’t mean your golf improvement has to stop. In this episode, our coaches discuss practical ways to work on your game while traveling, even if you don’t have access to a range, a golf course, or even a club! From grip rehearsals and mirror work to balance drills, mobility training, and course-management or statistical studies, they share simple ways to stay connected to your goals without turning your vacation into a training camp. The crew also explains why slow-motion practice can be surprisingly effective and how a single club (or even just a dowel rod) can provide plenty of productive work. Hosts: Erik J. Barzeski, Jayson Nickol, Tyson Deskins Sponsor: Carl’s Place ( https://carlofet.com ) – Listen to the Episode for a coupon code! — If you enjoyed this episode, please share that with us and your friends on Instagram @thespinaxis or Twitter/X @thespinaxis . You can also share or visit our site at https://thespinaxis.com/ .

9. 065: The Top Causes of a Shank from The Spin Axis - Golf Podcast

   Jun 2, 202619 min

   Few shots in golf are as feared as the shank, but the causes are often more predictable than golfers realize. In this episode, we seek to demystify the shank by talking about the most common reasons players hit the hosel. Is it pelvis thrust, extreme club paths, poor sequencing, an open clubfaces, or setup issues? Which is your primary cause? Erik, Jayson, and Tyson explain how different swing flaws can all lead to the same ugly result, why many golfers diagnose the problem incorrectly, and how attempted fixes can sometimes make things worse. Whether your shanks appear suddenly or have become a recurring issue, this episode focuses on identifying the root cause rather than treating the symptom. Hosts: Erik J. Barzeski, Jayson Nickol, Tyson Deskins Sponsor: Carl’s Place ( https://carlofet.com ) – Listen to the Episode for a coupon code! — If you enjoyed this episode, please share that with us and your friends on Instagram @thespinaxis or Twitter/X @thespinaxis . You can also share or visit our site at https://thespinaxis.com/ .

10. 064: Morsels of MORAD and Mac O'Grady from The Spin Axis - Golf Podcast

    May 26, 202625 min

    In this episode, Nick Arther returns to discuss MORAD, the influential but often misunderstood instructional system created by Mac O’Grady. Erik, Jayson, Tyson, and Nick explore MORAD’s origins, the philosophy behind its highly structured “machine-like” view of the golf swing, and why it captivated so many instructors from the 1980s through the early 2000s. The conversation also examines where some of those ideas still hold value, where modern technology has challenged or disproven certain concepts, and why highly model-based instruction can break down when applied too rigidly to individual golfers. Along the way, Nick shares stories from his own deep dive into MORAD, including years spent studying tapes, theories, and movements that shaped a generation of golf instruction. Hosts: Erik J. Barzeski, Jayson Nickol, Tyson Deskins Sponsor: Carl’s Place ( https://carlofet.com ) – Listen to the Episode for a coupon code! — If you enjoyed this episode, please share that with us and your friends on Instagram @thespinaxis or Twitter/X @thespinaxis . You can also share or visit our site at https://thespinaxis.com/ .

11. 063: Low Point or Face Control — Which Matters More? from The Spin Axis - Golf Podcast

    May 19, 202620 min

    063: Low Point or Face Control — Which Matters More? What’s more important in golf: controlling the clubface or controlling low point? In this episode, Erik, Jayson, and Tyson debate one of the game’s most important ball-striking questions, after Jayson’s “discussion” on Instagram. They discuss why elite golfers can sometimes survive imperfect low point with enough speed and face control, how launch monitor numbers can mislead golfers about contact quality, and why “no divot” doesn’t necessarily mean a player isn’t hitting down. The conversation also explores strike depth, face stability, and how different players prioritize these elements depending on their skill level and tendencies. Hosts: Erik J. Barzeski, Jayson Nickol, Tyson Deskins Sponsor: Carl’s Place ( https://carlofet.com ) – Listen to the Episode for a coupon code! — If you enjoyed this episode, please share that with us and your friends on Instagram @thespinaxis or Twitter/X @thespinaxis . You can also share or visit our site at https://thespinaxis.com/ .

12. 062: Michael Neff on the GEARS “Nipper Curve” and Lie Angle from The Spin Axis - Golf Podcast

    May 12, 202624 min

    This episode features Michael Neff, founder of GEARS Golf, to explain the “GEARS (né Nipper) Curve” and how dynamic lie angle changes as a result of droop, and how that affects ball flight. The discussion centers on why traditional lie angles may not work for your game, and shares with listeners a simple test to explain how you can find your optimal lie angle — for ALL of your irons — in a few minutes. If you pull your wedges and push your longer irons, this episode is for you. Michael shares insights into why more fitters haven’t fully adopted these concepts and real-world, Tour-tested feedback. The result is a deeper understanding of how club delivery and equipment interact to influence direction and consistency. Hosts: Erik J. Barzeski, Jayson Nickol, Tyson Deskins — If you enjoyed this episode, please share that with us and your friends on Instagram @thespinaxis or Twitter/X @thespinaxis . You can also share or visit our site at https://thespinaxis.com/ .

13. 061: Mailbag #3 — AI, Zero-Torque Putters, Lead Foot Action, and How Good is Instruction Today? from The Spin Axis - Golf Podcast

    May 5, 202626 min

    In this mailbag episode, Erik, Jayson, and Tyson tackle a wide range of listener questions, starting with how AI tools are beginning to influence golf instruction and where they help or fall short. They discuss how instructors decide how much information to give students to provide clarity without overload. The crew also shares thoughts on the growing interest in zero-torque putters and breaks down the eye-catching lead foot action seen in some elite players, explaining whether it’s a cause of speed or simply a byproduct. The episode wraps with an honest discussion about the landscape of golf instruction today and how players can find coaching that actually helps them improve. Hosts: Erik J. Barzeski, Jayson Nickol, Tyson Deskins Sponsor: Carl’s Place ( https://www.carlofet.com ) – Listen to the Episode for a coupon code to save 5%! — If you enjoyed this episode, please share that with us and your friends on Instagram @thespinaxis or Twitter/X @thespinaxis . You can also share or visit our site at https://thespinaxis.com/ .

14. 060: Transitioning from Indoor Golf to the Course from The Spin Axis - Golf Podcast

    Apr 28, 202620 min

    How do you take your indoor swing to the golf course without losing performance? In this episode, Erik, Jayson, and Tyson answer a listener question about balancing swing changes with scoring once the season moves outside. They discuss why contact and low-point control are often the first challenges for golfers used to hitting off mats, how to recalibrate distance wedges and green speeds, and why short game preparation is critical early in the season. The crew also tackles the common dilemma: fix your swing on the range that day or play what you brought to the course… and why the answer often depends on context. The focus is on managing expectations, avoiding big numbers, and gradually blending improvement with performance. Hosts: Erik J. Barzeski, Jayson Nickol, Tyson Deskins Sponsor: Cobalt Golf ( https://cobalt-golf.com/ ) – Save 10% with the code “SPINAXIS”! — If you enjoyed this episode, please share that with us and your friends on Instagram @thespinaxis or Twitter/X @thespinaxis . You can also share or visit our site at https://thespinaxis.com/ .

15. 059: Distance Wedges — Controlling Your Scoring Shots from The Spin Axis - Golf Podcast

    Apr 21, 202619 min

    If you want to score, you have to own your wedge distances. In this episode, Erik, Jayson, and Tyson break down how to build a reliable system for partial wedge shots. Whether that’s through specific swing speeds, a clock system, or calibrated feels, they discuss the importance of consistent strike, why small adjustments like grip, ball position, and swing length matter, and how different trajectories can produce overlapping yardages with different outcomes. The conversation also emphasizes feedback and repetition, along with developing a few “go-to” distances you can trust under pressure. The goal: turn wedge play into a strength by combining structure, feel, and adaptability. Hosts: Erik J. Barzeski, Jayson Nickol, Tyson Deskins — If you enjoyed this episode, please share that with us and your friends on Instagram @thespinaxis or Twitter/X @thespinaxis . You can also share or visit our site at https://thespinaxis.com/ .

16. 058: How Forces Influence Shot Shape from The Spin Axis - Golf Podcast

    Apr 14, 202620 min

    Can ground forces really change your shot shape? Or is their role overstated? In this episode, Erik, Jayson, and Tyson explore how forces/pressure shifts, the generated torque, and the point of application can influence ball flight, while debating just how much they actually matter. They discuss the small margins between fades and draws, why many golfers chasing a new shape may be applying the wrong magnitude or direction of force, and how other factors (like clubface and path) still dominate. The conversation also touches on why some players are naturally biased toward certain shot shapes and how forces may subtly support (but not dictate) those tendencies. Hosts: Erik J. Barzeski, Jayson Nickol, Tyson Deskins — If you enjoyed this episode, please share that with us and your friends on Instagram @thespinaxis or Twitter/X @thespinaxis . You can also share or visit our site at https://thespinaxis.com/ .

17. 057: Five Main Causes of an Overswing (And How to Fix Them) from The Spin Axis - Golf Podcast

    Apr 7, 202620 min

    What actually causes an overswing, and why do so many golfers struggle to control it? Erik, Jayson, and Tyson break down the most common contributors, including excessive trail elbow bend, over-rotating the pelvis, rolling the club inside, delaying wrist hinge, and swaying while tilting. They also discuss how factors like poor awareness, weak trail arm structure, or combinations of things can compound the issue. The conversation emphasizes that an overswing isn’t just “too long,” but often the result of sequencing and loading problems earlier in the motion. Understanding the root cause is key to shortening the swing without sacrificing speed or power. Original Twitter thread here . Cause #1: Trail Elbow Bend (Over-Bend!) Cause #2: Overturning the Pelvis Cause #3: Rolling the Club Inside and Lifting Late Cause #4: Wide Takeaway (Late Wrist Hinge) Cause #5: Sway and Tilt Hosts: Erik J. Barzeski, Jayson Nickol, Tyson Deskins — If you enjoyed this episode, please share that with us and your friends on Instagram @thespinaxis or Twitter/X @thespinaxis . You can also share or visit our site at https://thespinaxis.com/ .

18. 056: The Three Phases of Golf Improvement (Swing/Stroke, Skill, Scoring) from The Spin Axis - Golf Podcast

    Mar 31, 202619 min

    Improving at golf isn’t one process — it’s three. In this episode, Erik, Jayson, and Tyson break down the progression from building solid technique to developing skills to taking the techniques and skills to the course where score is the ultimate factor. They explain why technical work often feels uncomfortable and requires objective feedback, how skill development bridges the gap by applying mechanics to real (or extreme!) shot demands, and why scoring is a separate skill that introduces pressure, decision-making, and strategy. The conversation highlights the importance of not skipping steps, embracing the early struggles of change, and ultimately learning to perform when it counts. Hosts: Erik J. Barzeski, Jayson Nickol, Tyson Deskins Sponsor: TRUE Linkswear ( https://truelinkswear.com/ ) — If you enjoyed this episode, please share that with us and your friends on Instagram @thespinaxis or Twitter/X @thespinaxis . You can also share or visit our site at https://thespinaxis.com/ .

19. 055: Feels vs. Mechanics in the Golf Swing from The Spin Axis - Golf Podcast

    Mar 24, 202621 min

    While every golfer may be a “feel” player, instructors often debate whether they should prescribe feels or teach the technique of the golf swing. In this episode, Erik, Jayson, and Tyson dig into the age-old discussion. They explore the idea that mechanics define the movement, while feels are the player’s way of accessing and repeating it. They talk about how those feels can drift, change, and even mislead over time. The conversation also touches on internal vs. external cues and whether “no swing thoughts” is even realistic. The result is a nuanced look at how players can balance structure and sensation to improve without getting lost in either. Hosts: Erik J. Barzeski, Jayson Nickol, Tyson Deskins — If you enjoyed this episode, please share that with us and your friends on Instagram @thespinaxis or Twitter/X @thespinaxis . You can also share or visit our site at https://thespinaxis.com/ .

20. 054: Tips to Build Swing Speed from The Spin Axis - Golf Podcast

    Mar 17, 202618 min

    If you want more distance, you have to train for speed on purpose! In this discussion, Erik, Jayson, and Tyson break down practical ways golfers can safely and effectively build swing speed. The guys discuss the importance of intent, overspeed and underspeed training, and why speed work should be done when you’re fresh, not fatigued (duh). The crew also covers common mistakes like trying to add speed on top of “crap” mechanics, along with the roles of strength, mobility, grip strength, and equipment. The takeaway: with the right approach, golfers can train speed just like any other athletic quality and transfer those gains to the course. Hosts: Erik J. Barzeski, Jayson Nickol, Tyson Deskins — If you enjoyed this episode, please share that with us and your friends on Instagram @thespinaxis or Twitter/X @thespinaxis . You can also share or visit our site at https://thespinaxis.com/ .