Published by Carlos Benavidez, Golf Mental Game Coach
Golf
Sports
Welcome to the Golf Psycho Podcast – the ultimate golf mental game podcast for players who want to dominate the course and master their mind. I’m Carlos Benavidez – a lifelong golfer with over 30 years on the course and 15+ years of experience in human behavior and habit change. Once a total headcase on the green (think Tin Cup !), I completely transformed my mental game with the help of my brilliant wife Laurie , a pediatric occupational therapist and wellness coach. Together, we created a one-of-a-kind Golf Mental Game Evaluation that’s helped me—and now so many others—play the best golf of their lives. -If you’re obsessed with golf… -Or if golf makes you lose your mind… This podcast is for YOU. Each week, we dive into: The nervous system and how it affects your swing How to build bulletproof focus and resilience Real talk about performance, wellness, and even the spiritual side of the game Unlocking the secrets and strategies that no one else is talking about We don’t just want to help you lower your scores—we want to help you become the kind of player (and person) you’ve always wanted to be. Subscribe now and start mastering the mental game of golf. Your best golf is already inside you. Let’s unlock it together. Website: https://www.thegolfpsycho.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@GolfPsychoPodcast IG: https://www.instagram.com/thegolfpsycho/ Book Your Lesson: https://calendly.com/golfpsychopodcast
Ryder Cup 2025: Mental Game Under Fire — How Europe Held Firm & What You Can Learn | Ep 10
n this episode of Golf Psycho , Carlos (golf mental game coach) and Laurie (occupational therapist co-host) dissect the psychological battle that raged behind the scenes at the 2025 Ryder Cup. With hostility, heckling, and poor crowd behavior making front page headlines, we dig into: Which players showed mental steel (and when) How Europe's team seemed more resilient overall Moments when U.S. players looked shaken by pressure + crowd noise Key mental game strategies you can use when distractions hit OT + neuroscience insight: how your brain processes heckling and noise Whether you're in a local tournament or just chasing personal bests, this is a masterclass in staying composed under fire. 🎧 Don’t miss an episode! Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify & YouTube Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@GolfPsychoPodcast 💬 Share your favorite takeaway in the comments 🔥 Follow us on Instagram: @t hegolfpsycho 🌐 Learn more or work with us: www.thegolfpsycho.com Schedule Your Lesson Here
Stop Front 9 Blow-Ups: Golf Mental Game Tips to Save Your Round | Ep. 9
Struggling with blow-ups on the front 9? You’re not alone. In this episode of Golf Psycho, Golf Mental Game Coach Carlos and Occupational Therapist Laurie break down why golfers fall apart early in the round — and how to turn things around before it’s too late. We cover: ⛳ The mindset mistakes that sabotage your front 9 🧠 How to reset your mental game after a bad shot or bad hole 📋 Practical strategies you can use on the course today 💡 What tour pros do to stay calm under pressure This is a no-fluff, real conversation blending sports psychology and occupational therapy insights. If you’ve ever walked off the 9th tee frustrated and mentally drained, this episode is for you. Chapters 0:00 – Intro 2:51 – Tip 1 - The Mindset Update 10:17 – Tip 2 - Start Doing This 15:18 – Tip 3 - What Pros Do 23:43 – Tip 4 - The Big One 36:18 – Action steps for your next round 37:53 – Closing thoughts & Thank Yous! 🎧 Don’t miss an episode! Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify & YouTube Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@GolfPsychoPodcast 💬 Share your favorite takeaway in the comments 🔥 Follow us on Instagram: @t hegolfpsycho 🌐 Learn more or work with us: www.thegolfpsycho.com Schedule Your Lesson Here
How Tommy Fleetwood’s Mental Fortitude Paid Off | Golf Mental Game Breakdown | EP 8
In this episode of the Golf Psycho Podcast , golf mental game coach Carlos and co-host Laurie (occupational therapist and the other half of Golf Psycho) break down the tenacious mindset of Tommy Fleetwood . After 164 starts on the PGA Tour, Fleetwood finally picked up his first win—a testament to mental toughness, patience, and fortitude . But what struggles did he face along the way? And what mental game strategies helped him persevere through years of close calls before breaking through? Carlos and Laurie explore: The mental fortitude Fleetwood needed to keep competing without a win Possible struggles and self-doubt he endured during his journey How he may have reset his mindset to stay focused and resilient Practical lessons golfers can apply from Fleetwood’s story to their own game—on and off the course Whether you’re chasing your first tournament win, grinding to lower your scores, or looking for more consistency, this episode will show you how to apply world-class mental game strategies to your golf journey. Subscribe for more episodes of the Golf Psycho Podcast – where the mental game meets real golf stories, struggles, and breakthroughs. 🎧 Don’t miss an episode! Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify & YouTube Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@GolfPsychoPodcast 💬 Share your favorite takeaway in the comments 🔥 Follow us on Instagram: @t hegolfpsycho 🌐 Learn more or work with us: www.thegolfpsycho.com Schedule Your Lesson Here
Golf Mental Game Breakthrough: How Support & Accountability Rewire Golf Mindset | Golf Psycho Podcast EP 7
On this episode of The Golf Psycho Podcast, Carlos and Laurie share the three-year journey of rewriting Carlos’s golf mental game—a journey filled with setbacks, breakthroughs, and habits that transformed frustration into freedom on the course. You’ll hear: Why support and accountability are more important than swing mechanics How to track progress with post-round breakdowns The role of celebrating small wins in mental performance How a single club (the two iron!) became a turning point Why our Mental Game Evaluation is changing golfers’ lives 👉 If your mental game is costing you strokes, stress, and confidence—this episode is for you. 🎙️ Subscribe to THE GOLF PSYCHO Podcast for weekly episodes on the golf mental game, mindset hacks, and how to play your best golf. If you love Golf Sidekick, Good Good, or Rick Shields...this pod is for you! A huge thank you to the love of my life Laurie. Love we finally did this and it will be here forever. Thank you for changing the way I look at the game. I couldn't have done it without you. I owe this all to you. Thank you for healing my game. Thank you for all your patience. Thank you for helping let go of what was never me to begin with. And most of all....thank you for your love. I cherish you. I LOVE you. - C 🎯 Don’t Forget To: ✅ Like this video ✅ Subscribe for weekly Golf Psycho episodes ✅ Share with a golf buddy who needs this! 🎧 Listen on the go: Spotify, Apple Podcasts & all platforms 🔗 Podcast Link: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2523086 🚀 Work With Us: Book a Golf Mental Game Lesson or custom Golf Psycho Assessment 👉 https://calendly.com/golfpsychopodcast 📩 DM us on Instagram or email: golfpsychopodcast@gmail.com 🌐 Website: https://www.thegolfpsycho.com/ 🎥 Filmed by L&C Media Productions – https://www.lcmediaatx.com/ ⏱️ Chapters 0:00 – Why the mental game almost broke me 3:45 – The role of patience and repetition 8:15 – Celebrating wins vs. focusing on failures 12:40 – The two iron breakthrough 18:25 – Support, accountability & habit change 24:50 – Post-round breakdowns & tracking 29:00 – The Mental Game Evaluation explained 34:00 – How nervous system regulation impacts golf 41:30 – Why support is the secret weapon 46:00 – Closing thoughts & invitation 🎧 Don’t miss an episode! Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify & YouTube Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@GolfPsychoPodcast 💬 Share your favorite takeaway in the comments 🔥 Follow us on Instagram: @t hegolfpsycho 🌐 Learn more or work with us: www.thegolfpsycho.com Schedule Your Lesson Here
From High School to College: Gen Z Golfers on Mental Game, Pressure & Life Lessons | Golf Psycho Ep 6”
Welcome to Episode 6 of the Golf Psycho Podcast! In this episode, golf mental game coach Carlos sits down with two of his former high school students — both Gen Z golfers who trained in the mental game during their teenage years. One is headed to play Division 3 collegiate golf , while the other stepped away from competitive golf and is now pursuing a career in film and video . Together, they reflect on: The mental game lessons that helped them compete under pressure How golf psychology shaped their confidence, focus, and resilience Why mental game tools apply both on and off the course The realities of junior golf, pressure from tournaments, and transitioning to college How Gen Z golfers view golf, mindset, and life beyond the sport Whether you’re a parent of a junior golfer, a coach, or a player chasing your potential — this conversation shows how golf’s mental game creates lessons that last far beyond the scorecard. Episode Takeaway: “The mental game doesn’t just lower scores — it builds the confidence to handle life’s biggest moments.” Guests: Former Golf Mental Game Students Featuring: Gen Z golfers (D3 college player + student pursuing film) Austin D. IG @austinduelley Hudson M: IG @ h2m_cinematics Work With Us: Book a Golf Mental Game Lesson or custom Golf Psycho Assessment https://calendly.com/golfpsychopodcast DM us on Instagram or email: golfpsychopodcast@gmail.com Website: https://www.thegolfpsycho.com/ Filmed & Recorded by L&C Media Productions – https://www.lcmediaatx.com/ 🎧 Don’t miss an episode! Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify & YouTube Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@GolfPsychoPodcast 💬 Share your favorite takeaway in the comments 🔥 Follow us on Instagram: @t hegolfpsycho 🌐 Learn more or work with us: www.thegolfpsycho.com Schedule Your Lesson Here
Break Your Old Scores | Golf Mental Game Tips W/ Johnnie From Caddy Issues Ep. 5
In this episode of the Golf Psycho Podcast , golf mental game coach Carlos sits down with Johnnie , founder of the Austin golf community Caddy Issues . Together they dive into how Carlos completely re-wrote his golf mental game, finally breaking 20+ year scoring plateaus with proven strategies for focus, confidence, and mindset on the course. You’ll learn: Mental game shifts to overcome frustration and self-sabotage. How to build a resilient golf mindset that lowers scores. Why “keeping the vibes high” is key to better performance (Caddy Issues’ mantra). Takeaways you can use immediately to stay calm, focused, and competitive. Whether you’re a weekend golfer or chasing tournament wins, these golf psychology tips will help you break your old scores and enjoy the game at a higher level. ⛳ Episode Highlights 0:00 – Welcome w/ Carlos & Johnnie (Caddy Issues) 1:22 – Building a golf community in Austin & growing the game 6:08 – Taking a 10-year break & returning with old habits 9:00 – Golf meltdowns, frustration & almost quitting again 10:04 – Rewriting the mental game: accountability & progress tracking 12:00 – Why gratitude became the foundation of mindset change 14:18 – Anxiety = future, depression = past… golfers do both 16:52 – Shooting 70s, then 80s… and the breakthrough shift 18:07 – The real scoring key 19:23 – Nervous system control & fight-or-flight on the course 22:18 – “Loading the Who”: the pre-shot mindset reset 30:44 – The Mo Willy tournament that changed everything 35:42 – Golf, anxiety, depression & healing through presence 38:34 – Golf as a spiritual practice & personal growth mirror 42:36 – Breaking a 20+ year scoring plateau at Wolf Dancer 47:34 – Shooting 74, 72, 71 after decades of struggle 52:02 – Golf mental game = freedom & enjoyment again 🎧 Don’t miss an episode! Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify & YouTube Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@GolfPsychoPodcast 💬 Share your favorite takeaway in the comments 🔥 Follow us on Instagram: @t hegolfpsycho 🌐 Learn more or work with us: www.thegolfpsycho.com Schedule Your Lesson Here
Golf isn’t just a game—it’s a reflection of life. In this episode of the Golf Psycho Podcast , we dive deep into the parallels between golf, spirituality, and personal growth. Episode Focus: Carlos re-introduces his powerful concept of “Loading the WHO” —a mindset shift that strengthens who you are being on and off the course. Tied to gratitude, purpose, and presence, this approach transforms golf from just a sport into a tool for living more meaningfully. Highlights: The connection between golf and spirituality ✨ What “Loading the WHO” really means (and how it impacts your pre-shot routine) How to strengthen your WHO so you play with clarity and confidence The importance of being present and grateful, both in golf and life Guest appearance from Raul Gomez (B9 Golf) , Austin-based YouTuber 🎥 Why Listen/Watch: If you’ve ever felt that golf is more than just swings and scores, this episode will show you how the game can enrich your life when played with intention. 🎧 Don’t miss an episode! Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify & YouTube Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@GolfPsychoPodcast 💬 Share your favorite takeaway in the comments 🔥 Follow us on Instagram: @t hegolfpsycho 🌐 Learn more or work with us: www.thegolfpsycho.com Schedule Your Lesson Here
Stroke-Saving Post Shot Routine for a Stronger Golf Mental Game | Golf Psycho Episode 3
Welcome back, Golf Psychos! Is your mental game the biggest weakness in your golf game? Do you know it’s costing you shots every round? You’re not alone—and we’re here to fix that. If you’ve ever: Crumbled under pressure when it mattered most Walked off the course knowing you left shots out there Felt frustrated about not reaching your true potential …then this episode is for you. In Episode 3 of the Golf Psycho Podcast , we connect the powerful insights from Episodes 1 and 2 with a game-changing tool: a stroke-saving Post Shot Routine . You’ll learn exactly how to: Reset your focus after every shot Eliminate lingering frustration and doubt Build long-lasting habits that strengthen your golf mental game for years to come 🎯 Pro tip: If you haven’t listened to Episodes 1 and 2 yet, bookmark this one and go back. Those episodes lay the foundation for what we cover today. Want to finally say goodbye to missed opportunities on the course? Book a private golf mental game lesson at THEGOLFPSYCHO.com and start playing the confident, consistent golf you know you’re capable of. 🧩 Guest Info – Raul Gomez YouTube: @raulgolfs Apparel: B9 Golf Apparel Instagram: @raulgolfs 🎯 Don’t Forget To: ✅ Like this video ✅ Subscribe for weekly episodes ✅ Drop a comment with your biggest takeaway ✅ Share with a golf buddy who needs this! 🎧 Listen on the go: Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms. 🔗 Podcast Link: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2523086/episodes/17567478 🚀 Work with us: Interested in golf mental game coaching or a custom Golf Psycho Assessment? Schedule Here: https://calendly.com/golfpsychopodcast 📩 DM us on Instagram or email: golfpsychopodcast@gmail.com Website: https://www.thegolfpsycho.com/ Filmed by L&C Media Productions - https://www.lcmediaatx.com/ 🎧 Don’t miss an episode! Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify & YouTube Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@GolfPsychoPodcast 💬 Share your favorite takeaway in the comments 🔥 Follow us on Instagram: @t hegolfpsycho 🌐 Learn more or work with us: www.thegolfpsycho.com Schedule Your Lesson Here
Fix Your Golf Mental Game: The Pre-Shot Routine You've Been Missing - W/ Raul Gomez (B9 Golf) | Golf Psycho EP: 2
Episode 2 picks up right where Episode 1 left off! Even if you missed Episode 1, this Episode will still make sense. But do yourself a favor and be sure to catch Episode 1. This episode's intention is to help every golfer increase their mental game power by adding, "Loading The Who", to the pre-shot routine. This episode goes deep on how this simple tip can greatly reduce blow ups and spirals. Is your mental game the biggest weakness in your golf game? Do you just KNOW it's costing you shots EVERY round? Head to THEGOLFPSYCHO.Com to book a lesson and finally say goodbye to not hitting your potential. Ep 2 Chapters 0:00 – Intro & Episode Setup 2:12 – Quick Recap of Episode 1 5:47 – What “Loading The Who” Means 9:30 – Why Identity Shifts Lower Golf Pressure 13:40 – How This Tip Reduces Blow-Ups on the Course 18:05 – Practical Pre-Shot Routine Adjustments 22:15 – Real Golfer Example: When Thoughts Spiral 27:00 – Raul’s Story: Applying “The Who” 33:20 – Carlos Explains Why Most Golfers Mismanage Pressure 39:45 – Building Mental Resilience Beyond Golf 46:10 – Training Your Nervous System Under Stress 52:30 – How to Reset After a Bad Hole 58:05 – Final Thoughts & Key Takeaways 1:00:15 – Outro + Next Episode Preview 🎧 Don’t miss an episode! Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify & YouTube Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@GolfPsychoPodcast 💬 Share your favorite takeaway in the comments 🔥 Follow us on Instagram: @t hegolfpsycho 🌐 Learn more or work with us: www.thegolfpsycho.com Schedule Your Lesson Here
The Number One Golf Mental Game Tip You Aren't Using- W Raul Gomez (B9 Golf) | Golf Psycho EP:1
🎧 Welcome to Episode 1 of the Golf Psycho Podcast – Golf Mental Game 101 Golfers everywhere are frustrated. They’re plateauing, spending money on gear they don’t need, and wondering why they aren’t improving. The truth? Mental game concepts are hard to apply — and even harder to stick with. But that changes today. In this kickoff episode, host Carlos Benavidez breaks down the exact mindset shifts that helped him (and his clients) finally start breaking personal records, playing better with the swing they already have, and feeling more mentally clear off the course. Plus, he’s joined by Raul Gomez , creator of @raulgolfs and Back Nine Golf Apparel , to talk brand-building, golf passion, and the powerful mental wins behind the B9 movement. 🔥 Inside This Episode: The #1 reason most golfers stay stuck The simplest tip to calm your mind and lower your score Why meditation matters (even for golfers!) The real mission behind Golf Psycho 🧠 This is Golf Mental Game 101 — and it just might change your game and your life.👉 Stay tuned to the end for one powerful tip most golfers have never heard. 📌 Chapters 0:00 – Welcome & Why Golfers Struggle Mentally 0:42 – Why Golfers Plateau (Clubs ≠ Fix) 1:08 – Meet Raul Gomez (B9 Golf) 2:08 – Carlos' Mental Game Journey 5:55 – The Adrenaline Problem in Golf 7:12 – Why Weird Misses Happen After Great Shots 9:18 – The #1 Mental Game Tip 20:05 – Why 99% of Golfers Need Mental Tools 25:54 – Breathwork Basics (4-8 Breathing) 30:05 – Rewriting My Golf Game Through Mental Training 32:18 – Why Accountability Matters 33:07 – Unlocking Lower Scores with Patience 38:02 – Finding Wins in Every Round 39:20 – The Biggest Secret in Golf Mental Game 41:17 – Why Even Pros Need Coaches 43:41 – Installing Mental Guardrails 45:00 – The Golf Psycho Evaluation Process 50:57 – Golf as a Path to Happier Humans 53:18 – How to Work with Carlos 🎧 Don’t miss an episode! Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify & YouTube Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@GolfPsychoPodcast 💬 Share your favorite takeaway in the comments 🔥 Follow us on Instagram: @t hegolfpsycho 🌐 Learn more or work with us: www.thegolfpsycho.com Schedule Your Lesson Here
