![#86: [Inside the Mind] Debbie O’Connell: Training Your Mindset (versus Mental Game) and Bringing Your WHOLE-self to the Course](https://static.libsyn.com/p/assets/d/8/6/1/d861c92d2ef5585cd959afa2a1bf1c87/Podcast_Coverart_2025-20250729-fc2mkakza5.png)
The Scratch Golfer's Mindset Podcast
Paul Salter
#86: [Inside the Mind] Debbie O’Connell: Training Your Mindset (versus Mental Game) and Bringing Your WHOLE-self to the Course
Episode Notes
In this powerhouse episode of The Scratch Golfer’s Mindset Podcast, I’m joined by LPGA professional and mindset expert Debbie O’Connell to dive deep into what mindset really means—and how it differs from the mental game of golf.
If you’ve ever felt stuck, frustrated, or like you’re bringing emotional baggage from life onto the course, this episode will feel like it was made for you.
Debbie and I discuss how your subconscious beliefs, emotions, and early life programming shape your identity as a golfer—and how shifting these beliefs can spark massive breakthroughs both on and off the course. From self-sabotage to self-worth, from fear to flow state, we cover it all.
In today’s episode, you’ll learn:
- The key difference between mental game strategies and true mindset training
- Why emotional reactions on the course are often rooted in childhood patterns
- How to unearth and release limiting beliefs that create performance plateaus
- What it really takes to break through your “internal thermostat” and shoot lower scores
- How your identity shapes your results—and how to rewrite it
- The role of flow state, presence, and emotional regulation in consistent performance
- How golf is a mirror of your life—and how growth in one reflects in the other
Get your pencils ready and start listening.
P.S. Curious to learn more about the results my clients are experiencing and what they say about working with me? Read more here.
More About Debbie
Want to attend Debbie’s three-day live event next month?
Text “YES” to 727-339-0106
Then, text “FLOW” for her free flow state eBook.
Debbie is a seasoned media professional, successful entrepreneur and accomplished business leader. She is the host of Audible’s 10-lesson series “Game Time Golf Positive.” She has also had multiple appearances on the Golf Channel, and has hosted numerous golf-oriented radio shows as well as the television show “Par Fore the Course.”
Debbie is the author of the bestselling book, “Golf Positive! Live Positive!” which offers insight and practical solutions to help one achieve their goals both on and off the golf course.
As an advocate for teenage development and self-esteem, Debbie speaks in several local schools teaching skills to improve self-confidence and personal empowerment. Her positive energy and enthusiasm made her an easy choice to be the lead LPGA Professional for the LPGA Leadership Academy, whose mission is to teach teenage girls leadership skills and strategies through the game of golf. Debbie also co-hosted Instructional Golf Days in association with Anthony Robbins “Unleash the Power Within” programs.
Debbie holds certifications in John Maxwell Speaking, Training, Coaching; Strategic Intervention; DISC Training; and a Bachelor’s of Science in Psychology with mi