Turf Today

This week we sit down with Stewart Naugler, Director of Agronomy at LoraLoma Club, one of the newest golf developments in Texas. A third-generation superintendent, Stewart shares his journey through the industry, the mentors who helped shape his career, and what it's been like helping bring a brand new golf course to life from the ground up.

Packed with experience, industry insight, and plenty of advice for the next generation of turf professionals, this episode dives into leadership, mentorship, career growth, and the realities of building and maintaining a modern golf course. Stu's passion for the industry...

This week we're joined by Jim Pavonetti, longtime superintendent at Fairview Country Club in Greenwich, Connecticut. Fresh off receiving the President's Award for Environmental Stewardship from the GCSAA, Jim brings a wealth of experience, perspective, and leadership to the conversation.

What really stands out about Jim is how genuine he is. He's not only a highly respected superintendent, but also a proud father, husband, and someone who leads with authenticity every day. Throughout the episode, he shares some incredible stories from his career, along with plenty of laughs that make this one an easy and enjoyable listen.<...

This week on Turf Today, we're joined by Marcus Harness, Superintendent at Sand Point Country Club in Seattle.

A longtime friend of the show, Marcus brings a wealth of experience from a career that's taken him through 10 different golf courses, starting from his early days growing up on a course to ultimately finding a place he now calls home.

Now in a leadership role, Marcus shares what it means to be the mentor he once looked up to, and reflects on the lessons, challenges, and stories that shaped his journey along the way.

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This week, we're joined by Will Haskett, broadcaster on PGA Tour Radio and author of The Science of Golf.

Will brings a unique mix of insight and storytelling as he walks us through his journey in golf media. From career highlights behind the mic to what really goes into a live broadcast, this episode gives a behind-the-scenes look at the game from a different perspective. This one hits close to home as Will and Brian are former roomates. 

We also dive into Will's appreciation for the turf industry and the people who make the game p...

This week on Turf Today, Adam and Brian sit down with Bubba Wright, Director of Agronomy at Big Cedar Lodge, one of the most unique and breathtaking golf destinations in the world.

Bubba's journey through the industry is nothing short of elite. From studying turf at Rutgers University, to interning at Pebble Beach Golf Links, spending time as an assistant at TPC Scottsdale, and eventually returning to Pebble Beach as a superintendent, his path has been built through some of the most iconic properties in the game.

Now leading the charge at Big Cedar Lodge...

This week on Turf Today, we sit down with Ryan Trudeau, Assistant Golf Course Superintendent at Maidstone Club in New York.

Originally from Montreal, Ryan's journey into the turf industry led him through Penn State's renowned turfgrass program and into an internship at Maidstone, an opportunity that quickly turned into a career thanks to the club's strong culture and leadership.

In this episode, Ryan reflects on the mentors who have shaped his path, the impact of investing in others, and the importance of building a team-first environment. He also talks about volunteering at this year's...

This week, Adam and Brian sit down with Riverbend Golf Club Superintendent Derek Williams, whose path into the turf industry is anything but conventional. A 14-year combat veteran of the U.S. Army and Purple Heart recipient, Derek shares a powerful story of resilience, transition, and rediscovery.

After years of service, Derek found something unexpected on the golf course, a sense of purpose, peace, and passion that ultimately led him into a career in turf management. His journey is a reminder that the road into this industry isn't always straight, but it often leads exactly where it's...

This week, we sit down with Brian Seltzer, a turfgrass student at Penn State who's right on the doorstep of his internship, and joining us live while volunteering at The Players Championship.

Brian's path into the turf industry isn't your typical one. Originally enrolled in mathematics and competing in NCAA downhill ski racing, he spent time out in Colorado living the ski bum lifestyle before eventually finding his way back to the golf course. That return sparked something and led him to pursue turfgrass management with a fresh perspective and serious passion.

We dive into...

This week on the podcast, Adam and Brian sit down with Brian Chalifoux, the Golf Course Superintendent at Fort Wayne Country Club. Brian grew up on the golf course alongside his dad, who served as the club's Superintendent for many years. From early mornings riding around the course as a kid to eventually stepping into the Superintendent role himself, Brian's story is one deeply rooted in family and tradition.

In this episode, we talk about the unique experience of following in your father's footsteps, the lessons learned along the way, and the importance of mentorship and leadership...

In this episode, the boys sit down with Craig Kirby, Founder and CEO of Golf. My Future. My Game, for a conversation packed with purpose, passion, and plenty of laughs.

With more than 40 years of experience in politics and as a graduate of Harvard University, Craig brings a unique perspective to the game of golf. While he's long enjoyed playing, his appreciation for the craft of greenkeeping truly took off after visiting TPC River Highlands, an experience that opened his eyes to the people and passion behind the scenes.

Craig is on a mission to...

This week on Turf Today, The guys chat with a friend of many in this industry, Mark Jordan. Mark spent 36 years at Westfield Country Club, serving as Superintendent, General Manager, and Director of Agronomy. A rare combination of leadership roles that speaks to the trust, respect, and vision he brought to the property. From championship-level course conditions to leading teams and mentoring future industry professionals, Mark's impact runs deep.

A former President of the GCSAA, Mark shares powerful stories about leadership, mentorship, family life on the golf course and the lifelong friendships built through service and volunteering.<...

On this episode, Adam and Brian sit down with Ashley Young, owner, superintendent, and second-generation steward of a truly special property called The Fields.

Ashley's story comes full circle. His dad, Mike Young, originally designed and built the course back in '89. Decades later, Ashley now leads the very land his family shaped from the ground up, carrying the vision forward while putting his own stamp on it.

We get into the pride and pressure of managing a course with that kind of history, what it's like balancing ownership and superintendent responsibilities, and how he...

In this episode of Turf Today we sit down with Grace Allen, a rising young professional in the turf industry from Brentwood, California, whose story is rooted in growing up on the golf course alongside their dad. What started as childhood exposure turned into a true passion for turf management and leadership.

Grace walks us through their journey, from school and internships to earning the Second Assistant Superintendent position at PGA West when the opportunity opened up. Grace shares what it was like stepping into that role, learning to lead, and finding confidence early in their career.<...

On this episode of Turf Today, the boys are joined by Tye Nichols, the creator of Fairway Fields, an abandoned golf course he and his family took a leap of faith on and brought back to life. What started as a passion project quickly turned into one of the most popular turf and golf stories on social media. Tye shares the journey of buying a neglected course, the challenges of restoring it, and why documenting the process struck a chord with millions of viewers. We talk family, risk, creativity, and how authenticity turned Fairway Fields into a movement that's r...

In this episode, Brian and Adam sit down with Bryan Hunter, Head Superintendent at Seven Lakes Golf Club, for a wide-ranging and entertaining conversation. Bryan shares how his early passion for greenkeeping sparked a career that took him through a variety of roles across the turf industry, including a period away from the profession before ultimately finding his way back.

Beyond the agronomy, Bryan offers insight into the lessons learned along the way, the value of diverse experiences, and what it means to lead with perspective. A devoted husband and dad with a great sense of humor...

We're joined once again by Tanner Coffman, Director of Turf Management with the TGL and TMRW Sorts, for an inside look at season 1 and what's ahead in season 2. Tanner breaks down what it took to bring the inaugural season to life, shares behind-the-scenes stories from the turf side, and offers a glimpse into the future of the league.

We also dive into innovation and branding, including Tanner's creative vision for the TGL turf trolley and how identity, presentation, and performance all intersect at the highest level.

From lessons learned to what's coming next, this episode i...

In this episode of Turf Today, Adam and Brian chat with Dave Ragan of Ragan Technical Solutions, a true veteran of the irrigation industry. Dave shares unforgettable stories from his career, including a memorable run-in at Five Guys, learning the hard way about winter gear, and a pivotal moment where legendary golf course architect Pete Dye saved him on the course.

Beyond the stories, Dave offers valuable perspective on how the irrigation industry has evolved over the decades and where it's headed next. We also dive into the innovative work Ragan Technical is doing with GPS mapping...

Adam and Brian jump on for the final episode of the year and recap some of the successes and highlights from a wonderful turf season. We want to thank all of the guests who have joined us, as well as the parters that keep the show running! We also want to thank our listeners for bringing this show to life and to where it is today. We are so fortunate to have such passionate and supportive individuals involved in this exciting industry. 

Keep those reels sharp, we'll be back in January!

In this fourth episode of Rolling With the Green Section, Adam and Brian bring on two USGA agronomists who are shaping the way Superintendents think about turf stress, recovery, and long-term planning.

First, we sit down with Tom Gould, author of "It's Wet Wilt Season" and "Mending by Seeding", to break down moisture stress, wilt patterns, and some ways to rebuild turf during peak pressure.

Then we talk with Brian Gietka, whose pieces "Hope Is Not a Plan" and "Dealing With Winter Injury" serve as essential reminders that preparation determines how well turf survives the...

On this episode of Turf Today, Adam and Brian sit down with Tim Kelly, Golf Course Superintendent at Huntingdon Valley Country Club. Tim walks us through his early days at Saucon Valley CC, Aronimink Golf Club and the various events that shaped his career.

He shares his favorite memories from the job. Not alwyas huge celebrations, but the everyday wins with his team and some memories close to his heart. Tim also shares some funny behind-the-scenes stories from the Western Amateur and the BMW Championship.

We also dive into Tim's work with the Super-Scratch Foundation a...

Garrett Bastardi, Head of Innovation and Development at Flash Weather AI, joins the show to talk about how weather technology is changing the way Superintendents and Course Managers make decisions. Garrett shares stories from his days as a competitive golfer, chasing storms with his father, his work on major events like the U.S. Open, and how his team is building tools that bring more precision and confidence to turf operations.

From morning walks at Oakmont to developing cutting-edge weather systems, this episode blends science, golf, and a few all-time stories.

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This week on Turf Today, Adam and Brian sit down with Tyler Miget, Equipment Manager at Harmony Club in Fort Collins, Colorado. Tyler brings a fresh and often-overlooked perspective to the industry as the voice of the equipment manager. He shares plenty of laughs, lessons, and great stories about the role he plays behind the scenes keeping the operation running smoothly. Tyler also opens up about family life, his love for the job, and what it takes to build a strong team culture. This is one you won't want to miss and should be shared throughout the industry

This week on Turf Today, Adam and Brian are joined by Matt Powell, Superintendent at The Country Club, ouside of Cleveland Ohio. Matt shares stories from his career journey, including the mentors who shaped him and the lessons learned working at one of the most respected golf properties in the country, Muirfield Village. From the culture inside a top-tier operation of his own, to the relationships that define a Superintendent's life, Matt offers an honest look at what it takes to build a solid career in this wonderful industry.

This week on The Turf Today Podcast, we're rolling through some memorable moments from past episode. Sit back and listen to some of the stories, laughs, and lessons that have stuck with us throughout the years. From early mornings on the course to behind-the-scenes insights from the people who keep the turf world running, this highlight reel cuts together the voices that define our industry. Hosted by Adam, This a fun look back at what makes turf life so unique and this show is for everyone in the industry. 

This is a video podcast so check out t...

This week Adam and Brian sit down with Scott Bordner, Director of Agronomy for the Union League of Philadelphia, to talk about his work overseeing one of the most dynamic organizations in golf. Scott shares insights into managing multiple properties, upcoming projects, and how he balances it all while staying connected to the game on a personal level. 

He also discusses his involvement with the Super Scratch Foundation and the annual golf tournament, along with his passion for introducing students and young professionals to the turf industry through working with the First Tee of Philadelphia. It's a g...

This week on Turf Today, Adam and Brian sit down with Eric Van Gerwen, Superintendent at Black Bear Ridge Resort, one of Canada's Top 100 golf courses.

Eric's journey is a blend of turf and business. After completing two years at the University of Guelph's Turf program, he went back to school to study business, giving him a unique edge as a modern superintendent.

He's sharp, passionate about the game, and already showing the makings of a great leader in the turf industry.

Tune in to hear his story, insights, and what drives his ap...

This week on Turf Today, we sit down with Alex Tolbert, Superintendent at Orangeburg Country Club and current President of the Carolinas Golf Course Superintendents Association.

Alex shares his journey through the turf industry, the unique challenges of managing a golf course in South Carolina, and how leadership extends beyond his own crew to the broader Superintendent community. From agronomic strategy to mentoring the next generation, Alex brings valuable perspective on what it means to manage turf at a high level while serving the profession as a whole.

We also get a preview of the...

In this episode of Turf Today, we sit down with Jeff Markow, the Superintendent at Cypress Point for the past 32 years. Jeff shares stories from his remarkable career, what it's been like to manage one of the most iconic courses in golf, and the people who've shaped his journey along the way. From the challenges of maintaining world-class turf to the relationships built over decades in the industry, this conversation is full of insight, perspective, and a genuine love for the game. It was a pleasure to chat with Jeff and we hope you love this conversation.

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In this episode of Turf Today, we're joined by a Decorated Veteran of the Canadian Armed Forces who has turned his experience on the battlefield into lessons for everyday life. Sean Bacon, now a mental toughness coach, provides workshops and seminars on resilience, leadership, and teamwork.

We highly reccomend listening and sharing this episode as we talk about what it really means to stay calm under pressure, how to reframe setbacks as opportunities, and the role of teamwork and leadership when the stakes are high.

Whether you're managing a team on the golf course, running...

This week on Turf Today, Adam Courchaine and Brian Laurent sit down with Owen Singer, a 22-year-old Canadian making waves in the turf industry as one of the youngest Superintendents in the game.

Owen's journey runs through the University of Guelph, countless hours on the course, and volunteer stints at the Canadian Open. All experiences that have sharpened both his skills and his perspective.

 Young, driven, and grounded in a strong turf background, Owen brings fresh energy and big-picture thinking to the superintendent role. Tune in for a conversation about leadership, opportunity, and the future o...

This week on Turf Today, Adam and Brian sit down with Brian Chapin and Todd Saganiec from Labar Golf to talk about their paths into the industry and the many projects that have had them racking up a ton of airline miles. They also played a big part in the golf course construction of Happy Gilmore 2.

From the challenges of building golf courses to the opportunities available for those looking to join the team, Todd and Brian share stories, insights, and a real passion for the work they do.

We appreciate all the love, keep...

This week on Turf Today we host episode 3 of Rolling with the Green Section. Join Ross Niewola and Mitch Leininger, two front-line agronomy experts from the USGA, as they demystify the science behind championship level maintenance. Ross explores the cutting-edge shift toward output-guided maintenance, where metrics like green speed, firmness, clipping volume, and soil moisture guide decisions on fertilizer, irrigation, mowing frequency, and more. Meanwhile, Mitch dives into the art and science of bunker health, discussing how site-specific fertility, precise sand depth, routine raking, proper drainage, and strategic renovation keep bunkers both playable and resilient.

Whether you're...

We're going back in time for an old school Turf Today episode with Adam and original co-host Trevor. Joining them is Daniel Peterson, better known as The Greenskeepah on social media. Superintendent at Paul Harney Golf Course in Massachusetts, Daniel brings a perfect mix of turf wisdom and locker-room comedy, dropping coach-like pep talks one moment and laugh-out-loud stories the next. From silly tales on the course to sharp insights about leadership and life in the turf world, this episode has it all. If you like your greenkeeping knowledge served with a side of banter, load this one up...

This week on Turf Today, we sit down with Simon Wattier, a 24-year-old turf professional whose résumé reads like a world tour. From the fairways of France to the greens of Switzerland, Ireland, Portugal, and the USA (including a stint at the legendary Augusta National) Simon has packed a career's worth of experience into just a few short years. We talk about his journey, the lessons he's learned working across cultures, and what it takes to make your mark in turf management before most people finish their first job. Simon is an absolute stud and we are so gr...

This week on Turf Today, Adam and Brian sit down with Anthony Angelis, Certified Golf Agronomist and Superintendent at Granite Ridge Golf Club in Ontario, Canada. Known to many as @turfbaus on Instagram, Anthony brings a range of experiece to the show. We talk about his path into turf management, the day-to-day realities of running a busy public facility and some of the leadership advice he's picked up throughout his well-rounded career. Anthony also tells an all-time story towards the end of the interview. Whether you're a veteran Superintendent or just getting started in the industry, this is one...

This week on Turf Today, we're joined by Chuck and Dylan Ashley. A father-son duo with deep roots in the turf industry. Currently holding things down at Voyageurs Golf Course in Alban, Ontario, the Ashleys bring a wealth of experience, resilience, and heart to the conversation.

Originally from Simcoe, the pair spent years working side by side at Norfolk Golf & Country Club before making the move north. They share what it's like maintaining a course with limited staff and aging equipment, how they've learned to do more with less, and the unique bond that comes from being...

In this episode of Turf Today, Adam and Brian sit down with Nick Roth, Director of Greens and Grounds at The Tree Farm in South Carolina. As employee number one, Nick has been there since the jump, helping shape a bold new golf project from untouched land to finished fairways. He shares insights on the construction and grow-in process, what it's like working with founders who think outside the box, and how he's building a culture of excellence on and off the turf.

Thank you to all our sponsors for supporting the work we do and the t...

In this episode of Turf Today, Adam and Brian sit down with Scott Furlong, Golf Course Superintendent at Robert Trent Jones Golf Club. Scott brings more than just turf wisdom to the table. He's a dad, a coach, a teacher, and a true leader on and off the course.

We talk about the culture he's building at RTJ, how he supports and develops his team and what it means to lead with empathy and intention. Scott also shares how he finds balance between work and family life, plus some hard-earned advice for staying grounded in a demanding...

In this episode of Turf Today, recorded on the Superintendent Network and proudly sponsored by Toro, Adam Courchaine and Brian Laurent sit down with Jake Gargasz, Director of Grounds at Crooked Stick Golf Club. Jake shares his experience leading a full green rebuild at the legendary Pete Dye-designed course, offering insight into the planning, challenges, and execution behind the project. He also reflects on his career path, leadership approach, and what it means to maintain a course with such a rich championship history.

Whether you're managing a major renovation or just love hearing from the best in...

In this episode of Turf Today, Adam and Brian catch up with Justin McGohon, Senior Assistant Superintendent at the University of Louisville Golf Club. Justin shares his path through the turf industry, including earning his turfgrass degree through the Penn State online program while gaining hands-on experience across the country.

From working high-profile events like the Korn Ferry Tour Championship, John Deere Classic, BMW Charity Pro-Am, Senior PGA Championship, U.S. Open, PGA Championship, and LPGA Championship, Justin brings a wealth of knowledge and perspective to the conversation.

We dive into what it's like managing...