The Spin Axis - Golf Podcast

063: Low Point or Face Control — Which Matters More?

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] (https://carlofet.com [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 [https://instagram.com/thespinaxis] or Twitter/X @thespinaxis [https://x.com/thespinaxis]. You can also share or visit our site at https://thespinaxis.com/ [https://thespinaxis.com/].

062: Michael Neff on the GEARS “Nipper Curve” and Lie Angle

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 [https://instagram.com/thespinaxis] or Twitter/X @thespinaxis [https://x.com/thespinaxis]. You can also share or visit our site at https://thespinaxis.com/ [https://thespinaxis.com/].

061: Mailbag #3 — AI, Zero-Torque Putters, Lead Foot Action, and How Good is Instruction Today?

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] (https://www.carlofet.com [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 [https://instagram.com/thespinaxis] or Twitter/X @thespinaxis [https://x.com/thespinaxis]. You can also share or visit our site at https://thespinaxis.com/ [https://thespinaxis.com/].

060: Transitioning from Indoor Golf to the Course

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/discount/SPINAXIS] (https://cobalt-golf.com/ [https://cobalt-golf.com/discount/SPINAXIS]) – Save 10% with the code “SPINAXIS”! — If you enjoyed this episode, please share that with us and your friends on Instagram @thespinaxis [https://instagram.com/thespinaxis] or Twitter/X @thespinaxis [https://x.com/thespinaxis]. You can also share or visit our site at https://thespinaxis.com/ [https://thespinaxis.com/].

059: Distance Wedges — Controlling Your Scoring Shots

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 [https://instagram.com/thespinaxis] or Twitter/X @thespinaxis [https://x.com/thespinaxis]. You can also share or visit our site at https://thespinaxis.com/ [https://thespinaxis.com/].