Turf Today

Turf Today
  • 5.0 (38)
  • Golf
  • Updated Weekly

Welcome to the biggest show in Golf Course Maintenance. Join Adam Courchaine and Brian Laurent from the Superintendent Network, as they host an engaging cross section of guests from the worldwide Turf community. Feel right at home as they talk shop without any boundaries. Listen, learn and laugh at the numerous entertaining experiences from various turf, golf and related professionals that you will enjoy getting to know. Feel free to reach out over our social media channels @turftoday and @thegcsnetwork

  1. 6d ago

    John Hurst

    In this special episode of Turf Today, Adam and Brian take you inside their trip to Toro headquarters in Minnesota for the Assistant Superintendent Experience. This wasn't just another stop on the road, it was a chance to see firsthand how one of the most influential companies in the turf industry operates behind the scenes. From touring Toro's facility and seeing how equipment is developed and tested, to spending time with the people who are shaping the future of the industry, this trip left a lasting impression on us. The highlight of the event, though, was sitting down with John Hurst, Senior Director of Toro's Center for Technology, Research, Innovation and Robotics. Instead of a traditional presentation, this year's session was opened up for a live Q&A and we turned it into a Turf Today interview in front of the entire audience. We dive into everything from emerging technology and automation to labor challenges and artificial intelligence, and what all of it means for the future of turfgrass management. There is also some great questions from the audience at the end. This episode is packed with insight, perspective, and real conversations from inside one of the most forward-thinking companies in the industry. A huge thank you to Toro for the hospitality and for inviting us to be part of such an incredible experience.

    John Hurst

  2. Aug 4

    Ben Ellis

    This week on Turf Today, Adam is joined by special co-hosts Tyler Miget from the Under the Greens Podcast and David Warszawski from the Your FUCC Golf Podcast for a conversation with Ben Ellis, Golf Course Superintendent at Andrews Air Force Base Golf Course. Ben shares his journey into the turf industry, from his first job at Fort Belvoir Golf Club to earning his education through Penn State World Campus and eventually leading one of the most unique golf courses in the country. Working on an active military installation means no two days are ever the same, and Ben shares what it's like maintaining a course where military aircraft are a regular sight and Secret Service training exercises happen just outside your office. The conversation covers leadership, career development, and the inspiration behind Ben's new book, The First Hundred Days: Becoming a Golf Course Superintendent and Living to Tell the Story, a resource created to help new superintendents navigate one of the biggest transitions in their careers. We also discuss the renovation currently taking place at Andrews Air Force Base, the importance of preserving the game's history through the Golf Heritage Society, and, of course, the unforgettable story of how Ben and his wife ended up being chased by the Secret Service in a golf cart. Whether you're an aspiring superintendent, a seasoned turf professional, or simply enjoy hearing the stories behind the people who care for our golf courses, this episode is packed with laughs, leadership lessons, and plenty of memorable moments. Thank you to everyone involved in this episode! Please share with your friends and co-workers in the industry. Visit our online store for merchandise

    Ben Ellis

  3. Jul 28

    PJ Greeno

    This week on Turf Today, Adam and Brian are joined by PJ Greeno, Assistant Superintendent at the West Course at Johns Island Club in Florida. PJ's path into the turf industry is anything but traditional. What started as a random game of Call of Duty turned into a lifelong friendship, a move across the country, and ultimately a career in golf course management. From working through a major renovation at McLemore Club to serving as a grow-in superintendent on a new build, PJ shares the experiences that have shaped his career and the lessons he's learned along the way. The conversation also covers volunteering at some of golf's biggest events, including the BMW Championship, FedEx St. Jude Championship, WM Phoenix Open, and the Augusta National Women's Amateur. PJ talks about the importance of mentorship, developing future leaders in the industry, and why it's never too late to find your passion in turf. Of course, no episode would be complete without a few laughs, including one of the best prank stories we've ever heard involving a hole changer. Whether you're just getting started in the industry or you're a seasoned superintendent, PJ's journey is proof that there isn't just one path to a successful career in turf. If you enjoy the show, share it with your friends!!

    PJ Greeno

  4. Jul 14

    David Warszawski

    Not every path into the golf industry looks the same, and David Warszawski is proof of that. Known to many as the Primary Cup Cutter at Tampa Palms Country Club, David didn't attend turf school or follow the traditional route into golf course maintenance. Instead, he learned from the Superintendents who took the time to teach him, developed a passion for the craft, and found purpose in creating exceptional playing conditions one cup at a time. In this episode, David shares what it's really like being responsible for setting the day's pin locations, the peaceful early mornings that keep him coming back, and the unforgettable experience of watching a golfer make his first-ever hole-in-one on a green he had just prepared. We also dive into his rapidly growing podcast, which has taken him across Florida and beyond in his classic VW Bus, connecting with superintendents, club professionals, industry leaders, and golf organizations. From earning media credentials at the PGA Show and the GCSAA Conference to chasing his dream of cutting a cup at every PGA Tour event, David's enthusiasm for the game is contagious. Whether you're in turf, golf, or simply appreciate the people who make the game possible, this is a conversation about passion, relationships, and finding your own path in the industry.

    David Warszawski

  5. Jul 7

    Jack Willhite

    Jack Willhite joins the Turf Today Podcast to share his journey from his first days at Savannah Golf Club to becoming a Golf Course Superintendent at Berkeley Hills in Georgia. A graduate of Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College (ABAC), Jack has built his career through hard work, a passion for the industry, and a willingness to embrace every challenge along the way. In this episode, we cover everything from setting goals at a new property and building strong relationships with greens committees and boards to the importance of great mechanics, and the ongoing search for talented assistants. Jack also shares his perspective on the value of turf education and what it takes to continue growing as a superintendent and as a person, by leaning on the people around him. Of course, it wouldn't be a Turf Today episode without a few laughs. Jack tells some unforgettable stories from his early days in the industry, including late-night aerification shifts, ghost pepper challenges, and one of the most legendary mole-catching stories we've ever heard. Whether you're an assistant superintendent, mechanic, student, seasoned superintendent or working another important role in our industry, this conversation is packed with practical advice, honest insights, and plenty of entertainment. Thank you to our incredible sponsors and all the people that make the show what it is!!  If you love the show, share it with your friends in the industry and rate the show 5 stars!!

    Jack Willhite

  6. Jun 30

    Nick Daley

    This week on Turf Today, we sit down with Nick Daley, Golf Course Superintendent at Capilano Golf & Country Club. Originally from Sydney, Australia, Nick's journey through the turf industry has taken him from his first days at Nicklaus North Golf Course to becoming one of Canada's rising leaders in golf course management. A graduate of Penn State World Campus, Nick has worked his way through nearly every level of the profession, gaining valuable experience as a grounds crew member, irrigation technician, Assistant Superintendent, and now Superintendent at the private West Vancouver club. In this episode, we discuss Nick's transition into the Superintendent role and the challenges that come with moving from a hands-on agronomic focus to overseeing the entire golf course operation. We explore leadership, communication, delegation, staff development, and what it takes to manage both people and turf at a high level.  Nick shares insights from hosting and volunteering at championship events and reflects on winning the 2023 CGSA Assistant Superintendent of the Year award. We also talk about the moments that continue to fuel his passion for the industry, from early mornings on the golf course to major projects, aeration weeks, and helping team members advance in their careers. Whether you're an aspiring Superintendent, a seasoned turf professional, or simply interested in the people behind great golf courses, this conversation offers an honest look at career progression, leadership, and the evolving role of today's golf course superintendent.

    Nick Daley

  7. Jun 23

    Anton Vergottini

    This week on Turf Today, we sit down with Anton Vergottini, a Superintendent at Suntree Country Club in Florida. Originally from Johannesburg, South Africa, Anton shares his journey into the turf industry. From his early days as a carnival operator to becoming a Golf Course Superintendent, Anton talks about the experiences, challenges, and lessons that helped shape his career. This includes: some unforgettable mornings mowing fairways in the mountains of North Carolina and a memorable encounter with a roller and a lake. Anton also opens up about the sacrifices that come with pursuing opportunities in the industry, raising a young family with two boys under the age of two, and being away from his parents in South Africa for more than seven years. One of the main themes of this conversation is leadership and team chemistry. Anton shares why building a strong culture within an agronomy team is critical to success and how investing in people can have a lasting impact on both the workplace and the golf course. This is a conversation about hard work, perseverance, family, leadership, and the passion that drives so many people in the turf industry to keep getting better every day. Follow the show to stay connected!

    Anton Vergottini

  8. Jun 9

    John Irvine

    This week on Turf Today, Adam and Brian chat with golf fitness instructor and the founder of Golf Gains, John Irvine to discuss the importance of taking care of yourself while working in the golf and turf industry. John shares his journey into golf fitness, his experience training golfers of all skill levels, and why physical health plays such a critical role in both performance and quality of life. Whether you're looking to improve your energy levels, reduce fatigue, prevent injuries, or simply feel better throughout the season, this episode is packed with practical advice you can start applying today. Tune in for an insightful conversation with John Irvine and learn why investing in your own health may be just as important as investing in your golf course.

    John Irvine
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5
out of 5
38 Ratings

About

Welcome to the biggest show in Golf Course Maintenance. Join Adam Courchaine and Brian Laurent from the Superintendent Network, as they host an engaging cross section of guests from the worldwide Turf community. Feel right at home as they talk shop without any boundaries. Listen, learn and laugh at the numerous entertaining experiences from various turf, golf and related professionals that you will enjoy getting to know. Feel free to reach out over our social media channels @turftoday and @thegcsnetwork

Information

  • Creator
    Turf Today
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2026
  • Episodes
    151
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2023
  • Show Website
    Turf Today

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