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 a business, or pushing yourself in competition, this conversation is packed with practical insights on building resilience and leading through disruption. Thank you to our sponsors and loyal listeners! Outro Music- Jacob Tillberg - Broken
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 of turf through the eyes of the next generation. Thank you to everyone inside and outside the turf world that helps spread the good word of golf course maintenance and it's wonderful community.
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 reaching out! Thank you to our partners: Toro, USGA, Standard Golf, The Andersons, Flash Weather AI and Apex-10 Outro Music- MAJORS- Thinkin' Bout
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 a Superintendent looking to optimize resources, a new student of the indusrty or simply curious about how agronomy shapes your golf experience, this episode delivers a master class in modern, data-driven turf management. To learn more and sign up for free visit the USGA's website and look for the Green section record. You can also find the link in the Turf Today linktree on instagram.
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 next. Keep sharing the show with your friends in the industry!
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 grateful he was able to join us. We hope you enjoy hearing about his career and some of the wonderful stories he tells. Please share the show with people who might find it interesting/resourceful!
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 conversation you won’t want to miss.
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 both coworkers and family. Whether you’re a seasoned superintendent or just getting started in the industry, this episode is a reminder that passion and pride in your work go a long way, no matter the budget. To connect with the show email adam@superintendentnetwork.com
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 turf professionals who make this industry thrive. And to our listeners, we appreciate every download, share, and message. Thanks for being part of the Turf Today community and helping us grow the game from the ground up! To connect with the show reach out to adam@superintendentnetwork.com
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 profession. This one’s full of insight, honesty, and reminders of what really matters.
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 the business, this conversation is packed with value from start to finish. Thank you to our sponsor and the community for sharing the show! Please rate 5 stars!
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 a university-owned golf course, how those major tournament experiences shaped his career, and what drives him to keep learning and growing in the industry as he is on a route to becoming a Superintendent. This is a great listen for anyone passionate about turf, career development, and the behind-the-scenes grind of championship golf.
In this episode, we team up with the USGA Green Section to bring you expert insights straight from the field. This is Episode number 2 of Turf Today and USGA Rolling wirh the Green Sectoin. First, agronomist Brian Whitlark (0:1:30) breaks down his article “Getting Rid of Fairway Grain.” Hedives into what causes it, why it matters, and how to manage it. Then we hear from Zach Nicoludis (0:31:35) who shares practical tips from his piece “Getting the Most from Your Grass Practice Tee,” helping you get more performance and recovery from your range. It’s smart, actionable turf knowlege brought to you stress free and straight to your ears by the Superintendent Network. To sign up for the USGA Green Section Record click this link FREE SIGN UP
We’ve made it to 100 and we’re celebrating in a big way! Adam and Brian are joined by one of the most legendary figures in the turf industry: Paul B. Latshaw. Currently the Director of Golf Course Operations at Merion Golf Club, Paul’s name is synonymous with excellence, and in this special episode, he shares stories, lessons, and behind-the-scenes insight from a career that has shaped the highest levels of the game. This episode is more than just a conversation, it’s a celebration of the people, the passion, and the profession that fuel golf course maintenance. Whether you’ve listened to one episode or all 100, thank you for being part of the Turf Today community. A HUGE thank you to everyone who follows the show. It means so much to us when you interact with the show and post ratings/reviews! to connect with the show email: adam@superintendentnetwork.com Shoutout to all our partners and everyone who keeps this show moving in the right direction. Keep those reels sharp!
On this episode of Turf Today, we head out to Cape Cod and are joined by two longtime listeners and social media standouts, Richard Milko and Mike Bird. Rich is at Woods Hole Golf Club where as Mike work at Green Harbor. They have both become familiar faces in the online turf community. This conversation is a fun, laid-back ride through their journeys in turf, their favorite parts of the job, and how social media has helped them stay connected and inspired. It’s a light, easy listen that reminds us all why we love this industry and the people in it. Tune in next week for episode 100!
In this episode of Turf Today, Brian and Adam are joined by Scott Pavalko, Director of Golf Course and Grounds at Castle Pines Golf Club in Castle Rock, Colorado. Castle Pines was the stunning host of last year’s BMW Championship. Scott takes us through his inspiring journey in the turf industry, from learning the ropes from his greatest mentor, to climbing the ranks at world-class venues like Muirfield Village and Cog Hill. This is a very insightful conversation. Scott shares thoughtful perspectives on leadership, course preparation at the highest level, and what it takes to manage elite playing conditions and people under tournament pressure. He’s articulate, passionate, and even throws in a few entertaining behind-the-scenes stories from his time on some of golf’s most iconic properties. We hope you enjoy this episode and continue to share the good word of turf! Send the episodes and instagram clips to your friends. Keep those reels sharp. Thank you to our sponsors: Toro, The Andersons, USGA, Standard Golf, Apex-10 and Flash Weather Ai. To connect with the show - adam@superintendentnetwork.com
This episode of Turf Today, hosts Adam Courchaine and Brian Laurent head across the pond to Northern Ireland for a special episode straight from one of golf’s most storied sites, Royal Portrush Golf Club, host of this year’s Open Championship. The guys connect with Graeme Beatt, Course Manager at Royal Portrush, to dive into the intricacies of preparing a major championship venue. From the unique challenges of coastal turf management to the pride of hosting one of golf’s biggest stages, Graeme shares insights on the course, the upcoming tournament, and the journey that led him to one of the most prestigious positions in the turf world. Whether you’re managing greens or just love the craft, this episode is packed with some international perspective and championship-level takeaways. Thank you to all our partners who power the show. Tune in, enjoy, and don’t forget to share this episode with everyone you know in the turf community!
In this episode of Turf Today, hosts Adam Courchaine and Brian Laurent sit down with Mick Sutton from New South Wales, a turf industry veteran whose story is as powerful as his passion for the grass beneath our feet. From working hands-on as a Greenkeeper to his current role in Sales with Toro, Mick has seen every side of the turf world. Was not an easy road for him. After a serious car accident, doctors told him he’d never return to the field. Mick not only proved them wrong but came back stronger, continuing to make his mark on the industry he loves. Tune in to hear about Mick’s resilience, his journey through the highs and lows of turf management, and the transition from maintenance to sales, all while staying true to his roots. Powered by our Sponsors The Toro Company, The Andersons, USGA, Apex-10, Standard Golf and Flash Weather Ai, this episode is a reminder that grit and passion can overcome any obstacle. Download the show and give us a five star rating if you love Turf Today!
In this episode, Adam and Brian sit down with Trent Manning, a Certified Turf Equipment Manager from the prestigious Ansley Golf Club in Roswell, Georgia. With years of hands-on experience maintaining and managing high-performance turf equipment, Trent shares his journey into the golf course industry, what it takes to keep a golf course running smoothly, and the evolving technology shaping turf management today. Whether you’re a golf enthusiast, a turf professional, or just curious about the work behind the beauty of the greens, this conversation offers a fascinating inside look at one of the most vital and often overlooked roles in golf course operations.
This week on Turf Today, brought to you by Toro: Adam and Brian sit down with Zach Sack, Assistant Superintendent at Butler National Golf Club in Chicago. After a long run in baseball and a life-changing event, Zach found his way into the turf industry—and he’s never looked back. Full of passion, great insight, and stories that range from hilarious to downright spooky, this is one you don’t want to miss!