Anyone Can Thrive: Leadership and Legacy with T.A. Barker, CGCS
Against The Grain
In this episode, we sit down with current GCSAA President, T.A. Barker, CGCS to talk leadership from the superintendentâs seat, and what itâs 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 heâs 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...
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The Gator Out Front Shouldâve Told You
Against The Grain
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, whatâs coming up on the Chapter calendar, and why you should grab your spot for GC Horn now. Resources & Links đ˘ Sign up for the latest events: Follow the Podcast đŚ X (Twitter): @evergladespod
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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 â plus the surprising reason he keeps Christmas lights up all year and never misses a Hallmark movie night. Guest: Matt Taylor, CGCS Resources & Links đ˘ Follow the Podcast đŚ X (Twitter): đ 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 GCSAAâs 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. Itâs 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 đ˘ Follow the Podcast đŚ X (Twitter): đ 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: â â â Calusa GCSA on â 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 appâit really helps us reach more listeners!
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Ritz, RoundsâŻ&âŻRecap
Against The Grain
Heat, high fives, and a hintâŻof face paintâthis episode brings you inside the 2025 POA GolfâŻ&âŻLuau weekend at the RitzâCarlton TiburĂłn. DaveâŻMeske and GabeâŻGallo swap stories from two full days on the course, share why a fourâman scramble shaved precious minutes off Fridayâs 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 chipsâŻ&âŻguac 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
Weâre 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 yearâweâve got you covered. đ Sign up for the BMP Class: đ˛ Download the EGCSA App: Donât miss a thingâdownload the app, turn on notifications, and get ready. Weâll 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 Reillyâaka TurfMonkeyBoyâabout how he went from a psychology degree to running one of Floridaâs most progressive golf course operations. John shares the story behind his social media handle, why heâs 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. Itâs 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 âSkipâ 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 todayâs technician certification through GCSAA. This oneâs packed with insight, industry history, and a few powerful personal moments you wonât want to miss.
info_outlineIn 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
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