How Low Can You Go? Golf Podcast · Chris Donaldson and Dave Alexander

Scott Fawcett: “Never Up, Never In” Is the Worst Advice in Golf (Part 2)

March 1, 2026·41 min·4 clips

Scott Fawcett reveals why 'never up, never in' is the worst advice in golf, flipping traditional putting wisdom on its head.

Scott Fawcett, a prominent golf strategy instructor, argues against common golf adages in this episode of *How Low Can You Go?* The hosts engage Fawcett on the mental and strategic errors that prevent golfers from lowering their scores. The conversation targets dedicated amateurs actively seeking to improve their handicaps. Fawcett immediately presents a clear strategic framework: be aggressive off the tee with driver but slightly conservative on approach shots. He emphasizes hitting greens on chip shots and maintaining immaculate speed control as fundamental. The discussion identifies five specific errors that transform decent rounds into frustrating ones. A significant portion critiques how most amateurs practice, labeling it unproductive despite feeling useful. This includes analyzing the debate between block practice and random practice methodologies. Fawcett also reveals a putting truth that alters perspective on 20-foot putts. He observes that golf attracts Type A, perfectionist personalities, especially among those chasing a scratch handicap. He claims the common phrase "never up, never in" is detrimental advice for putting. Fawcett uses an analogy of consulting multiple cardiologists to illustrate his journey from a "36 cardiologist to a scratch," framing improvement as a diagnostic process. He argues that perfectionism itself often hurts scoring by leading to poor strategic decisions. The episode promises to uncover the quiet, unnoticed patterns that consistently cost golfers shots. Fawcett distinguishes between players content with their handicap for social play and those genuinely focused on improvement. The tone is direct, educational, and conversational, featuring a knowledgeable guest dispensing actionable advice. The style blends strategic explanation with relatable anecdotes for the average golfer. Golfers frustrated with stagnant handicaps and those obsessed with course strategy would find immense value in this episode. Listeners who play purely for casual, social enjoyment without concern for score might find the technical focus less relevant.

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