Turf Today

Ryan Trudeau

This week on Turf Today, we sit down with Ryan Trudeau, Assistant Golf Course Superintendent at Maidstone Club in New York. Originally from Montreal, Ryan's journey into the turf industry led him through Penn State's renowned turfgrass program and into an internship at Maidstone, an opportunity that quickly turned into a career thanks to the club's strong culture and leadership. In this episode, Ryan reflects on the mentors who have shaped his path, the impact of investing in others, and the importance of building a team-first environment. He also talks about volunteering at this year's upcoming U.S. Open Championship at Shinnecock Hills. Fan-favorite Mark Prieur joins Adam as co-host for this conversation. We'll be taking a short break next week, but Brian and Adam will be back with our Masters episode. Be sure to check out the Masters pool on the Turf Today Instagram for your chance to win prizes.

Derek Williams

This week, Adam and Brian sit down with Riverbend Golf Club Superintendent Derek Williams, whose path into the turf industry is anything but conventional. A 14-year combat veteran of the U.S. Army and Purple Heart recipient, Derek shares a powerful story of resilience, transition, and rediscovery. After years of service, Derek found something unexpected on the golf course, a sense of purpose, peace, and passion that ultimately led him into a career in turf management. His journey is a reminder that the road into this industry isn't always straight, but it often leads exactly where it's meant to. This episode dives into the parallels between discipline in the military and life as a superintendent, the therapeutic side of the golf course, and how the turf industry continues to welcome people from all walks of life.

Brian Seltzer

This week, we sit down with Brian Seltzer, a turfgrass student at Penn State who's right on the doorstep of his internship, and joining us live while volunteering at The Players Championship. Brian's path into the turf industry isn't your typical one. Originally enrolled in mathematics and competing in NCAA downhill ski racing, he spent time out in Colorado living the ski bum lifestyle before eventually finding his way back to the golf course. That return sparked something and led him to pursue turfgrass management with a fresh perspective and serious passion. We dive into his journey, the lessons he's picked up along the way, and what it's like getting hands-on experience at one of the biggest events in golf. Brian's story is a reminder that there's no one "right" path into this industry, just a willingness to jump in and get after it. If you or someone you know is thinking about getting into turf, this is an episode you won't want to miss.

Brian Chalifoux

This week on the podcast, Adam and Brian sit down with Brian Chalifoux, the Golf Course Superintendent at Fort Wayne Country Club. Brian grew up on the golf course alongside his dad, who served as the club's Superintendent for many years. From early mornings riding around the course as a kid to eventually stepping into the Superintendent role himself, Brian's story is one deeply rooted in family and tradition. In this episode, we talk about the unique experience of following in your father's footsteps, the lessons learned along the way, and the importance of mentorship and leadership in the turf industry. Brian also shares some incredible stories from growing up at the course and reflects on the balance between dedicating your life to maintaining great golf and remembering to carve out time to spend with family and actually get out on the course to play the game. It's a conversation about legacy, family, and the people who shape our paths in this industry with plenty of laughs and great memories along the way. Share this podcast with your friends in the industry and anyone who might find intrest in golf or turf. Don't forget to rate 5 stars and leave us a review.

Craig Kirby

In this episode, the boys sit down with Craig Kirby, Founder and CEO of Golf. My Future. My Game, for a conversation packed with purpose, passion, and plenty of laughs. With more than 40 years of experience in politics and as a graduate of Harvard University, Craig brings a unique perspective to the game of golf. While he's long enjoyed playing, his appreciation for the craft of greenkeeping truly took off after visiting TPC River Highlands, an experience that opened his eyes to the people and passion behind the scenes. Craig is on a mission to create greater access and opportunity in golf, working to bring more people of color not only into the game but into careers within golf course industry. His enthusiasm is contagious, and this episode reflects that energy from start to finish. We talk family, leadership, finding your lane, and the importance of mentorship. Craig shares incredible stories from his journey and offers thoughtful insights for young people still searching for their path. This is a fun, heartfelt episode with meaningful takeaways for anyone who loves the game... or believes in growing it the right way.