Against The Grain

Everglades GCSA
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The Official Podcast Of The Everglades Golf Course Superintendents Association! ‎ Your ultimate source for the latest chapter news, exciting events, and in-depth industry interviews. In each episode, we'll keep you informed about the most recent developments within the Everglades GCSA. ‎ We'll ensure you never miss a beat, from upcoming tournaments and networking events to educational workshops and groundbreaking initiatives.

  1. 15 JAN

    Anyone Can Thrive: Leadership and Legacy with T.A. Barker, CGCS

    In this episode, we sit down with current GCSAA President, T.A. Barker, CGCS to talk leadership from the superintendent's seat, and what it's like guiding the profession into a milestone year. T.A. shares his roots in a multi-generation golf family, the real-world pressure of big infrastructure decisions (like tackling an aging irrigation system), and how he's tried to stay approachable while serving at the national level. The conversation also gets into career pathways, building a stronger pipeline, and why creating space for more women and new voices in the industry is not a side topic. It's the work. Along the way, you'll hear stories from the road, a Ryder Cup moment that still makes him laugh, and a few behind-the-scenes notes on what the centennial year has planned. If you care about leadership, team culture, and where the superintendent profession is headed next, this one's for you. Resources & Links 📢 Sign up for the latest events: www.EGCSA.GOLF Follow the Podcast on X : @evergladespod Follow T.A. on X : @TA_Barker_CGCS

    1h 5m

  2. 08/12/2025

    The Gator Out Front Should've Told You

    In this episode, we recap Thanksgiving at home, talk about how the algorithm convinced us to butterfly a turkey, and laugh through a very underwhelming Black Friday run that did not go as planned. We also hit the important stuff: a sold-out Christmas Event, what's coming up on the Chapter calendar, and why you should grab your spot for GC Horn now. Resources & Links 📢 Sign up for the latest events: www.EGCSA.GOLF Follow the Podcast 🐦 X (Twitter): @evergladespod

    19 min

  3. 04/11/2025

    The Holiday Greenskeeper

    In this episode of Against the Grain, Gabe and Dave sit down with Matt Taylor, CGCS, to talk about growing up in Naples before it became a golf hotspot, the unexpected path that led him from culinary school to turfgrass management, and what keeps him grounded after decades in the industry. Matt opens up about mentorship, leadership, and the friendships that shaped his career — plus the surprising reason he keeps Christmas lights up all year and never misses a Hallmark movie night. Guest: Matt Taylor, CGCS Resources & Links 📢 Follow the Podcast 🐦 X (Twitter): @evergladespod 🌐 Website: EGCSA.GOLF

    54 min

  4. 15/09/2025

    Building to the Centennial with Darren Davis

    In this episode of Against the Grain, Gabe and Dave are joined by the Triple Crown of Past Presidents, Darren Davis (GCSAA, Florida GCSA, Everglades GCSA), to preview how the GCSAA will celebrate its historic Centennial Anniversary. The celebration kicks off in February at the Conference & Trade Show in Orlando. We also talk through his path at Penn State, the Loxahatchee Club, 33 years at Old Florida, how he was selected for the Centennial committee, and how smart social media and personal branding became part of his toolkit, along with practical advice for younger members to engage locally and with peers. Guest: Darren Davis X (Twitter): @DarrenJDavisGCS Resources & Links 📢 Follow the Podcast 🐦 X (Twitter): @evergladespod 🌐 Website: EGCSA.GOLF

    40 min

  5. 18/07/2025

    Serving Supers: A Conversation with GCSAA's Ralph Dain

    In this episode of Against the Grain, Gabe and Dave sit down with Ralph Dain, South Atlantic Regional Representative for the GCSAA. Ralph shares stories from his years as a superintendent, including a stint in South Africa with Gary Player, how he got involved with the GCSAA, and what his day-to-day looks like now. It's a great behind-the-scenes look at one of the most connected people in the industry. Guest: Ralph Dain GCSAA South Atlantic Regional Rep X (Twitter): @GCSAA_SouthAtl Resources & Links 📢 Follow the Podcast 🐦 X (Twitter): @evergladespod 🌐 Website: EGCSA.GOLF

    49 min

  6. 01/07/2025

    Gabe Takes the Gavel

    Gabe Gallo hosts his first episode as Everglades GCSA President with Dave Meske. They extend a big thank you to outgoing President Dan Brooks for his extra year of service, discuss the new board lineup, and share highlights from the annual meeting at Saltleaf. They also look forward to the upcoming joint meeting at Calusa. Links & Resources: ✅ Everglades GCSA Website ✅ Saltleaf Golf Preserve ✅ Calusa GCSA on X ✅ Follow us on Facebook  / X Connect with Us: Have questions or topic ideas? Email us at support@evergladesgcsa.org Enjoy the show? Please rate and review us on your favorite podcast app—it really helps us reach more listeners!

    12 min

  7. 24/05/2025

    Ritz, Rounds & Recap

    Heat, high fives, and a hint of face paint—this episode brings you inside the 2025 POA Golf & Luau weekend at the Ritz‑Carlton Tiburón. Dave Meske and Gabe Gallo swap stories from two full days on the course, share why a four‑man scramble shaved precious minutes off Friday's round, and tiger stripes at the Luau. They shout out the board, partners, and Ritz staff for keeping everyone fed, hydrated, and happy. Kick back, picture chips & guac by the pool, and catch the recap before planning starts for 2026. Follow us on Facebook and X, grab the EGCSA app for real‑time updates, and we'll see you "Against the Grain."

    10 min

  8. 09/05/2025

    POA Preview and Last-Minute Details

    We're just 5 days out from the big POA Golf & Luau weekend, so we jumped on the mic for a quick (and slightly chaotic) rundown of everything you need to know. From BMP classes and check-in times to how to score a free drink from Dave and where the Ladies of the POA event is actually happening this year—we've got you covered. 🎟 Sign up for the BMP Class: Register here 📲 Download the EGCSA App: Apple App Store Google Play Store Don't miss a thing—download the app, turn on notifications, and get ready. We'll see you at the POA!

    9 min
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About

The Official Podcast Of The Everglades Golf Course Superintendents Association! ‎ Your ultimate source for the latest chapter news, exciting events, and in-depth industry interviews. In each episode, we'll keep you informed about the most recent developments within the Everglades GCSA. ‎ We'll ensure you never miss a beat, from upcoming tournaments and networking events to educational workshops and groundbreaking initiatives.

Information

  • Creator
    Everglades GCSA
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2026
  • Episodes
    38
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Everglades GCSA
  • Show Website
    Against The Grain