The Holiday Greenskeeper
Against The Grain
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): 🌐 Website:
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Building to the Centennial with Darren Davis
Against The Grain
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...
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Serving Supers: A Conversation with GCSAA’s Ralph Dain
Against The Grain
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 DainGCSAA South Atlantic Regional Rep X (Twitter): Resources & Links 📢 Follow the Podcast 🐦 X (Twitter): 🌐 Website:
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Gabe Takes the Gavel
Against The Grain
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: ✅ ✅ ✅ Calusa GCSA on ✅ Follow us on / Connect with Us: Have questions or topic ideas? Email us at Enjoy the show? Please rate and review us on your favorite podcast app—it really helps us reach more listeners!
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Ritz, Rounds & Recap
Against The Grain
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...
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POA Preview and Last-Minute Details
Against The Grain
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: 📲 Download the EGCSA App: Don’t miss a thing—download the app, turn on notifications, and get ready. We’ll see you at the POA!
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Pushing Turf Forward: John Reilly on Innovation, Authenticity, and Turf Twitter
Against The Grain
In this episode, Gabe and David talk with John Reilly—aka TurfMonkeyBoy—about how he went from a psychology degree to running one of Florida’s most progressive golf course operations. John shares the story behind his social media handle, why he’s embraced electric equipment, and how data-driven turf management is reshaping the way superintendents approach tradition. They dive into why sharing both the wins and challenges online matters, how social pressure impacts the profession, and what tech might be overhyped. It’s honest, insightful, and packed with fresh perspective. Guest:...
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Skip Hines: Building the Bridge Between Superintendents and Technicians
Against The Grain
Henry “Skip” Hines, Equipment and Facilities Manager at Royal Poinciana in Naples, joins Gabe and David to talk about winning the Edwin Budding Award and his decades of leadership in the industry. Skip shares how he helped start the International Golf Course Equipment Managers Association, pushed for technician education, and helped shape today’s technician certification through GCSAA. This one’s packed with insight, industry history, and a few powerful personal moments you won’t want to miss.
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Managing Golf Course Excellence with Ryan Swilley, CGCS
Against The Grain
In this episode, hosts Gabe Gallo and David Meske sit down with Ryan Swilley, CGCS, Vice President of the Florida GCSA. They explore the latest trends in golf course management, the biggest challenges superintendents face, and practical strategies for maintaining high-quality turf conditions. Ryan shares his experiences, industry insights, and advice for golf course professionals looking to stay ahead. 🔹 The evolving role of superintendents 🔹 Tools and strategies for efficiency 🔹 Key industry challenges and solutions 🔹 Florida GCSA updates and upcoming events Don't miss this...
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Pesticide Licenses & EPA Changes: What You Need to Know
Against The Grain
Big changes are coming for pesticide licensing and regulation! In this episode, we take you to the GC Horn, where Dr. Brett Wells Bultemeier breaks down the EPA’s updated rules, how they impact licensing requirements, and what pesticide applicators need to do to stay compliant. 🔗 Tap the link below to access the presentation and all the links mentioned. 👉
info_outlineIn this lively episode, Dave and Gabe dive into a mix of hilarious and heartfelt topics. They kick things off with a discussion about Thunder Vests for dogs and how to keep pets calm during 4th of July fireworks. The conversation takes a fun turn as Dave admits he hasn’t listened to any of their past episodes, despite always being bright-eyed and bushy-tailed for recordings.
They also touch on the importance of membership dues and give a sneak peek into exciting upcoming events that listeners won’t want to miss. Tune in for a blend of laughs, insights, and behind-the-scenes stories in this action-packed episode!