Mastering Golf Rules with Confidence: USGA Expert Marcela Smith & The Girlfriends Golf Experience

On this episode of The Traveling Golf Diva, Doris Muscarella welcomes Marcela Smith, a USGA Expert Rules Certified educator who has empowered thousands of golfers — especially women — to play with greater confidence, avoid costly penalties, and truly feel welcome on the course.

Marcela’s passion for demystifying the Rules of Golf shines through her innovative Girlfriends Golf Experience — hands-on, on-course clinics that turn intimidating rulebooks into practical, fun learning moments. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned player, Marcela delivers the tools you need to understand key rules, etiquette, and course protocols in a supportive, pressure-free environment.

In this conversation, Marcela shares how she built her reputation as a trusted rules educator, her experience presenting at major industry events like the 2024 PGA Frisco Summit and the 2025 PGA Show in Orlando, and why knowing the rules can actually make golf more enjoyable and social.

If you’ve ever felt unsure about a ruling, hesitated to play with new groups, or wanted to help your girlfriends feel more confident on the course, this episode is packed with insights, real-world tips, and inspiration.

Key Topics Discussed:

• Earning USGA Expert Rules Certification and becoming a leading voice in golf rules education
• The creation and impact of the Girlfriends Golf Experience — interactive on-course rules clinics
• Making golf rules less intimidating and more approachable for all levels
• How proper rules knowledge builds confidence, reduces penalties, and improves the overall golf experience
• Presenting at the 2024 PGA Frisco Summit and the 2025 PGA Show in Orlando
• Tips for beginners and groups of friends who want to play smarter and have more fun

Guest Bio: Marcela Smith is a USGA Expert Rules Certified golf educator and the founder of Girlfriends Guide to Golf. Through her signature Girlfriends Golf Experience, on-course clinics, and digital content, Marcela has helped thousands of golfers — particularly women — master the rules and etiquette of the game. A dynamic speaker and passionate advocate for making golf more welcoming, she has presented at major events including the 2024 PGA Frisco Summit and the 2025 PGA Show in Orlando, Florida.

Connect with Marcela Smith:

• Website: girlfriendsguidetogolf.com
• Instagram: @marcelasmithgolf
• YouTube: Girlfriends Guide to Golf

Call to Action: Ready to finally understand the Rules of Golf and play with more confidence? Visit girlfriendsguidetogolf.com to learn more about Marcela’s Girlfriends Golf Experience, clinics, academy, and upcoming events.

Listen Now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or your favorite podcast platform.