Golf- Play the Game, Not the Swing with Austin Graham

Some of the worst golf advice sounds sophisticated—especially when it comes to “process,” perfect swing positions, and expensive gear.

 Teaching pro Austin Graham breaks down why juniors and parents often get trapped in the wrong priorities, and why the real edge comes from learning how to score, not how to look pretty on video. 

Austin joins Ryan and Adam to unpack the old-school lessons he learned from Hall of Fame coach Jim Fick.  He explains why the best players build clear decision-making, trust their routines, and stay focused on the shot—not on endless checklists, swing thoughts, or trying to play “the golf swing".  

You’ll discover:

• Why “playing the game” beats obsessing over a perfect-looking swing

• How Austin teaches juniors to build a personal routine without overcomplicating it

• The difference between useful rehearsal swings and empty motion

• Why younger players benefit from multiple sports, athleticism, and feel

• When coaching frequency helps and when it simply wastes time and money

Austin also gets specific about equipment, including junior club fitting, when US Kids Golf makes more sense than a full custom bag, why golf balls should match swing speed, and why a ball is never a magic fix for a swing problem. 

If you’re navigating youth golf, wondering how often your child should practice, or trying to decide whether that expensive setup is really worth it, this conversation cuts through the noise. 

This episode is perfect for parents, junior golfers, coaches, and anyone who wants a smarter, more confident way to approach golf.