Road Fuel: Recent Episodes
Turf's Up Radio
Get ready to fuel up and follow us on the road! Each week you will hear from our Major Contributors as they travel the country attending Green Industry Shows, Expos and even vendor invitationals. You'll hear amazing interviews from vendors and distributors and from pros like you. But don't worry, while you are sure to be fueled up with great information and knowledge, this kind of Road Fuel won't cost you a dime.
We all know technology is a necessity in the industry and companies are improving on existing tech every day.
Hank is and his company are revolutionizing the tech space with their beyond amazing arborist software and moving soon into the landscape management side as well.
Imagine sending a crew to the exact location where a tree has fallen along a road via an app. No searching, no lost time. The same can happen for a broken irrigation line in the middle of a huge park. Take a listen and find out how.
If you are in the irrigation world, you've heard of Bowsmith. However, even if you know the name, you may not know the story behind the brand.
Ken gives us the behind the scenes history of this iconic company.
Take a listen as Darren has a chance to speak with Marcel in the Ideal booth about Ideal Software and how it can help grow your business.
Are you still using sub-par lubricants for your equipment?
We have a chance chat with Michael about Amsoil and the amazing protection it can offer your power equipment.
Are you in the outdoor living space business and need a structure to keep your client shaded?
Check out this interview with Darren and Robert and learn how TIMO can help you and your clients.
Tired of using google maps/earth to measure a property or job? Check out the Plott measuring device and start saving time and money.
Learn more about LandOpt and how they can help your business in this interview straight from the floor of the Equip Expo
Aaron Farrer founder of Practical Products is joining us in our booth at Equip Expo to discuss his revolutionary product which will change how you enhance your fall cleanups and more.
Tired of coming home with green legs during the summer season? Always swatting those back of the knee flies away? Comfort Trim is a must have for anyone who likes to wear shorts but should be wearing pants. All of the cool and none of the irritation.
Wayne had a chance to sit down with Erick Brehob from Brehob Nurseries to discuss his family's business and the challenges of supplying contractors with plants year-round.
Lauren Ulrey, VP of Robotics with Husqvarna gives us an inside take on their line of robotic mowers including everything from small residential all the way up to multi-acreage without the use of guide wires. The future is here.
Dustin and Jake joined us in our booth at Equip Expo for a chat about their business and how Jake is already planning on continuing the legacy up north.
We had the chance to chat with Justin in our broadcast booth at Equip Expo. We were all excited to meet one of the next generation of landscapers. Too often we worry that landscaping is becoming obsolete in the eyes of younger guys and gals, but Justin is definitely not with that trend. Learn about his aspirations and what he thinks about his first trip to the Equip Expo.
Patty, Shannon and Kristi from Field Routes are joining Wayne live from the Equip Expo show for this one.
Have you been curious about Filed Routes and how they can help you with more than just route planning and invoicing? How about growing your business by attracting new customers and employees?
All that and more in this amazing interview!
Cliff Peters, Founder of Twin Storm, joins Wayne for an amazing discussion about his revolutionary backpack blower system.
We've all strapped a blower to our back and one on our chest at the same time or used a handheld and backpack together. Through faith and determination, Cliff invented the first duel tube backpack blower which operates like a standard model including feel, power, fuel consumption and overall style.
Give a listen to find out the details of this one of a kind machine that every landscaper needs.
Our own Adam Linneman had a chance to speak with Justin from Amp Lighting about new products and technology they have in store for contractors and how they can leverage those products to gain more profitability.
Wayne is back in the Husqvarna booth to discuss Battery/Handheld/Connectivity with Husqvarna Product Manager, Chris Richert.
They spoke about the difference between amps and voltage in battery products as well as the future of the handheld battery market in the residential space.
Wayne and Keith are discussing autonomous mowers, handheld commercial battery equipment and more from the Husqvarna booth at the Equip Expo.
Looking to gain more customers using just your phone?
Caleb with Grasshop App is discussing how his app will be helping contractors provide services using their phones to connect virtually with customers in their area.
Josh with Cub Cadet stops by the booth to speak with Wayne Volz about his thoughts on the expo and where Cub Cadet is headed in the future.
One of first listeners on Turf's Up Radio had the chance to sit down with us at the Equip Expo to talk about his experience and how Turf's Up helped him grow his company.
Wayne and Rick sit down for a great conversation about the Equip Expo, the state of the white side of the green industry and what BOSS has in the works for the future.
Would you like to know more about an 83 year old star-up?
Carl gives us an insight into owning and running a company with a storied history in the industry and how they are bringing the family run side of business back to the present day.
From equipment and tools to workwear and everything in-between, Gemplers has everything you need for your business and your crew. Great products, great prices and above all, real customer service.
Find out more about their own line of gear and tools under their Sugar River and Gemplers brand such as rain gear, shovels, clothing and more in this exclusive interview.
This is a must listen interview with one of our industries next leaders. Troy shares his story and how he created a thriving business while keeping his love for the industry at the forefront.
Humble and down to earth with an excitement which is so refreshing in today's world. Troy gives insights we can all use to better our businesses and ourselves.
In this special broadcast, our own Luke Truetken sits down with Don Gao, CEO of Positec and Kress.
Kress is poised to dominate the battery and robotic landscaping sector. Listen in and learn more about Don and his commitment to bringing the latest cutting edge equipment and technology to the landscaping industry.
Wayne welcomes Kris Kiser, President and CEO of OPEI, Equip Expo and the TurfMutt Foundation to another Road Fuel.
They are discussing the all new and improved Equip Expo. Learn what's new for this year and how they've expanded this already massive show.
Also learn about OPEI and how you can even adopt a new friend at the show through the TurfMutt Foundation.
Our own Luke Truetken had a chance to sit down with Don Gao, Founder and CEO of Positec, to discuss the upcoming launch of a new brand here in North America. Kress is revolutionizing the way we look at battery tech and robotic mowers.
Listen as they discuss the beginning of Don's companies and his philosophy for growing a business, taking risks and employee retention including company culture.
Also learn about some of the details behind their battery tech and the way they have changed the way we will look at robotic mowers.
Have you heard of Blue Gator? check out this interview live from the floor of the NALP Elevate show.
Do you waste time and money every season buying overpriced sheets of plywood to protect your clients turf and driveways during installs and maintenance? Check out this interview with Ryan from Blue Gator and up your game this season.
Had the pleasure of sitting down with Gene Ragel from Patio Pools and Spas. He also runs Poolwerx Tucson, a family business of 53 years with Nicole. They do it all and have seen it all.
This one is a great example of how connections are made every single day when you least expect it.
Check out this awesome interview from the CPS Distributors "Spring Fling" event. Tron has a great story and such an amazing energy.
Another great conversation from the CPS Distributors "Spring Fling" event in Denver, CO.
This was a special interview. Having the chance to discuss the changing of the guard at CPS Distributors and how the history of Lowell and his time in the industry have impacted Jesse as he has moved into his newest leadership role.
Adam and Sahra are hosts with Turf's Up Radio but they were also speakers at the CPS Distributors "Spring Fling" event!
Have you heard of the H2B program for laborors? Do you know how it really works? John gives us an in depth look at the program and the challenges of expanding the program in the future.
We had a chance to sit down with Chris and discuss his time in the industryand how he keeps his company ahead of the trends.
Have you ever wondered where playground structures come from? Did you know there is a see saw which uses human generated electricity to power lights and play music? So many options and so much nostalgia in the interview with Eric Denning.
The best of broadcasting from the HLS Outdoor booth at the Northern Green Expo is meeting so many great vendors. This time we are chatting with Barry from Rain Bird. So many topics to cover and knowledge to absorb. Great discussion and a great representative of this amazing industry.
We had a chance to sit down with Quinn and Isaac who are both attending their final semester of the Sustainable Landscaping Program at Central Lakes College in Minnesota. Talking to the next generation of landscapers definitely gives us hope for the future of the industry. These two young men are destined for great things. They were also assisted in the journey by the MNLA through their scholarship program. Give a listen and hear how they made it happen.
When you have legends in the industry like Steve Jones, Dave Smith and Greg Ambrose...you try to soak up as much knowledge as possible. That and enjoy chatting with some of the nicest guys you'll ever meet.
Having a chance to sit down with Patrick who is part of the only landscape industry focused law firm in the country was amazing. He also happens to be on the Board of Directors for the MNLA along with a few others. Patrick previously owned a landscaping company so he has a unique perspective when it comes to small business and customer contracts.
Just when Dan and I thought we were going to dominate the "Vendor Contender" game, However, Greg had other plans for us. Find out how we did learn about Greg and SEK Surebond in this crazy interview.
The Nothern Green Expo was amazing but it wouldn't have happened without the amazing work of the Minnesota Nursery and Landscape Association. Executive Director, Cassie Larson and Communications Director , Jon Horsman pulled of a flawless show. Listen to this quick chat about the MNLA and the show.
Having been raised in Alaska, I had seen this type of equipment but never knew it had so many uses. If you are a landscaper or contractor who does installs and/or demos of existing landscaping, you have got to check this one out.
Back at it again with the "Vendor Contender" game...so close and yet so far with this one. Listen and see what Forever Lawn can do for you and how Troy stumped us.
Ever wonder what it's like to manage some of the largest sporting venues? Listen in as we have a chance to talk with Mike about some of his highlights from over 45 years in the business and how he helped clear some crazy events in sporting history.
Great conversation with Keith from the HLS Outdoor booth at the Northern Green Expo. We really enjoyed learning more about Keith's background and how Unique stands up against the competition.
Belgard is a leader in hardscaping for many reasons. We had a chance to sit with Mike and chat about some of the innovative things Belgard is bringing to the table in the coming year. Have you heard of Belgard Rooms? You better check out this episode and learn how you can streamline your design and order process with their revolutionary platform.
We couldn't have made the trip to the Northern Green Expo without the help of Chad Redman from HLS Outdoor. He also happens to have an amazing radio voice so tune in and listen to the sweet dulcet tones of Chad while we discuss HLS Outdoor and all the amazing things they can do for you.
Get the inside knowledge of Ramy Turf Products from one of the hardest working guys in the business, Sam Bauer. So many topics and such a great conversation from the Turf's Up Radio live broadcast in the HLS Outdoor booth at the Northern Green Expo.
We were definitely stumped trying to guess the product this time around. Have a fun time listening to us try and then continue listening as we find out more about Candice and her work with Avon Plastics and Master Mark bed edging products.
Need help showing your clients a design they can understand? Eric Gilbey with Vectorworks gives us a run for our money as we try to guess his product and then we find out more about Vectorworks and how it can help you give your clients a clearer picture of their project.
Another round of, "Guess the Vendor" and I am pretty sure Steve went easy on me for this interview. Great discussion about Hunter Industries and everything they offer.
Straight from the HLS Outdoor booth at the Northern Green Expo. Dan Platta and Russ "Hecubus" Owens play our new gameshow, "Vendor Contender". Listen in as Russ and Dan try to guess what type of service or product Isabel and Trent are selling without knowing anything other than their names. Will they get the right answer in time, or will they have to concede and have their guests tell them.
Join us for this informative chat about the upcoming National SiteOne Virtual University and learn how they shifted from in person to on line classes while maintaining the integrity of in person education.
We are joined by Sarah Williams, Marketing Director for IQ Power Tools straight from the GIE+EXPO. Learn about one of the most innovative and safety conscious power tool companies in the industry. If you love hardscape, you are going to love their products!
Enjoy this special "Supply Chain" edition of Road Fuel with Brian Rowan, VP of Category Management for SiteOne Landscape Supply.
Michael Fultz from Mowing with a Breeze and Mark Ramsey from Moonshiners join me for a special show. I start by chatting with Mark about his experiences in the liquor industry. Then Michael and I discuss his new venture. Imagine not worrying about allergies while you mow or trim. We've got the product for you. You can see what the hype is about at www.mowingwithabreeze.com
We've all seen the, "one tool that does everything" commercials but we just found a piece of equipment at the GIE+EXPO that actually does it it all and more. Super low maintenance and built to last. You gotta listen and get the details!
Allergies and soil additives can wreak havoc on your sinuses when you are mowing. Not to mention the sun beating down on your head. Listen to this interview from the GIE+EXPO to learn about a great new product that launched recently. It will have you enjoying that mower time in no time.
Do you like string trimming while wearing shorts? Tired of mosquitoes and other biting bugs dining on your calves? Give this intervoew from the GIE+EXPO a listen and learn about a revolutionary product that just makes sense.
Have you ever wished you could naturally light your outdoor space? Check out this special interview from the GIE+EXPO as we talk with Alex about his one of a kind product.
The guys had a great time trying to guess what Brad and Troy do for a living in this great Road Fuel interview version of, "Turf's Up Truth" Listen in and find what they do, where they are from and a special secret super power they share.
Another great interview from GIE 2021
For more, go to turfsupradio.com
Find us on IG @profits.unlimited @turfsupradio
Another great interview from GIE 2021
For more, go to turfsupradio.com
Find us on IG @profits.unlimited @turfsupradio
minitrencher.com for more on GeoRipper
Another great interview from GIE 2021
For more, go to turfsupradio.com
Find us on IG @profits.unlimited @turfsupradio
Another great interview from GIE 2021
For more, go to turfsupradio.com
Find us on IG @profits.unlimited @turfsupradio
GoiLawn.com for more
Another great interview from GIE 2021
For more, go to turfsupradio.com
Find us on IG @profits.unlimited @turfsupradio
GoiLawn.com for more
Another great interview from GIE 2021
For more, go to turfsupradio.com
Find us on IG @profits.unlimited @turfsupradio
Another great interview from GIE 2021
For more, go to turfsupradio.com
Find us on IG @profits.unlimited @turfsupradio
For more info go to link2pump.com
Another great interview from GIE 2021
For more, go to turfsupradio.com
Find us on IG @profits.unlimited @turfsupradio
For more info on Cutlass Blades go to cutlassblades.com
For more, go to turfsupradio.com
Profitsareus.com for our products and consulting information
Find us on IG @profits.unlimited @turfsupradio
We had a chance to sit down with Chris Wilkins at the GIE+EXPO recently. Chris is a Territory Manager for Agria. They produce a remote control mower that is at the forefront of the technology ion today's market.
Charles Miller Sr. Has always loved plants and the green industry since he got his first experience in 9th Grade. This is where he attended Warren City Schools 9th Grade Horticulture Program under Richard States. During his Junior and Senior year, He attended The Horticulture program at Trumbull County Joint Vocational School under Raul Kemp. During senior year and upon graduation, He worked for Hawley Landscape and was mentored by the late Lynn Hawley until his passing. In 2008, He attended the Landscape Design and Arboriculture program at Kent State University - Salem. He operates the Lorain, OH location.
Charles Miller Jr. (15 yrs old) Is working out of the Warren, OH location. He plans on Attending the Horticulture Program at TCTC (previously TC JVS where Charles Sr. attended) and Kent State University Salem upon graduation from Highschool. Until then, He is being taught and mentored by his dad, Charles Miller Sr.
We look forward to serving our clients in Northeastern Ohio.
"We Create Your Personal Paradise"
Never before has any radio station aired LIVE form 30,000 feet above the earths surface. March 13 @ 13:38 EST, Darren Gruner, CEO of Turf's Up Radio makes radio history by broadcasting live from his seat on an American Airlines Flight from Philadelphia, PA to Fort Lauderdale FL. His guest was non other than Greg Parker, a well known Real Estate Developer who's known for helping the less fortunate find great living!
Eric Jones, the Turf Teacher interviews Nick Hatley, Nate Pierce and Cliff Cole who are NC Licensed Landscape Contractors. We discussed education in the green industry with Nick having a degree in Horticulture and both Nate and Cliff having degrees in Landscape Architecture.
Wayne Volz chats with the Secretary of the KLMA who is also the owner of Premier outdoor solutions
Wayne Volz sits down with Mason in this exclusive interview at the Kentuckiana Lawn Maintenance Association Christmas Party. Be sure to check it out!
You know you're among friends when Site One Landscape supply is around. If you can't find them in your back yard, you're truly not even trying. Site one is everywhere you need them to be. And just to remind you, you can find them at every Major event like where we found Steve Counter, Vice President, Category Manager. The symmetry between Turf's Up Radio and Site One is clearly demonstrated in this interview. You got to listen to find out why.
Talk about innovation and inspiration! Damon Mori of H2O Wise has developed a product that is a must have to ensure your new plants stay healthy long after you leave your clients property. Make sure you listen to this interview we did with the guys at the IA in Vegas baby!
Looking to meet new people and make new friends? Well then look no further that within the industry you love! Attend events like the Irrigation Association in Las Vegas, Nevada 2019 and you'll be sure to collect many. Many people already know this guy, but Darren didn't and I'm sure he is happy now! Richard Daigle of Irrigator Tech is a guy you outta get to know too, that's if you're as passionate about the Green Industry as Turf's Up Radio!
It's always fun talking the guys at Geo Ripper. But this time was especially noteable! Listen to find out what JJ is offering his clients these days. I hope you have a hungry appetite!
Darren was able to convince Adam Linnemann, Host of the Executive Lounge and JJ Harris, Marketing Director of Geo Ripper to join him at his favorite restaurant Benihana. The reservation were for three and fortunately they found themselves next the Toro Irrigation crew. What a blast it was!
Adam Linnemann talks with Clayton Garrison at Green executive and Linnemann Lawn Care and Landscape Tour !
Adam Linnemann talks with Keven Shanks from Scott's Miracle-Gro at the BWI EXPO in San Antonio Texas
Learn more: https://scottsmiraclegro.com
LIVE at the BWI EXPO in San Antonio Texas
Adam Linnemann pulls aside Bill Dunn, Executive Vice President - Professional Turf | DLF PICKSEED - Seed and Science
Learn more: https://www.dlfpickseed.com/
Pro Talk. Pro Tips. Pro Interviews. Live Coverage of Green Industry Events all across the Country.
Learn More: https://turfsupradio.com
Fun with the gang at Go Materials.
Thank you Shireen, Michael and Jimmy!
Learn more: https://gomaterials.com
Maddison Shields is our newest addition to the Turf's Up Radio family. Welcome her with open arms.
GATOR MAXX SAND is a unique mixture of polymer binders and calibrated sand available in Beige and Slate Grey. The installation of GATOR MAXX SAND is almost identical to using regular paver joint sand except for the application of water. Once GATOR MAXX SAND sets, it becomes very firm and locks between the paver joints while still retaining flexibility and providing a long lasting, durable jointing material. GATOR MAXX SAND is recommended for a variety of uses
including pool decks, patios, footpaths, driveways, parking spaces, pavements etc.
FEATURES
- Advanced Haze Free Technology.
- Can be used for joints up to a maximum of 2 inches. ASTM C144 gradation allows use in even the tightest joints.
- OSHA cristalline silica compliant (OSHA 29 CFR 1926.1153).
- For drainage and non-drainage, residential and commercial applications.
- Drainage applications, Rain safe 1hour after water activation.
- Non-Drainage (Overlays) applications, Rain safe 24 hours after water activation.
- Works above 32°F/ 0°C
- Can be used on false joint pavers.
- Helps prevent weeds and damage caused by burrowing insects.
- Helps prevent erosion due to wind, rain, and freeze thaw cycles.
- Waterproof bags. Intact pallets or bags can be laid flat and stored outdoors. (Lay bag flat on its back, so front of the bag is facing you.)
- Could be used in a Gator Base application.
LEARN MORE: https://www.alliancegator.com/
Hey Landscape pros! Turf's up Radio and GeoRipper is offering you a chance to win the GeoRipper six-sixteen! A landscapers dream and the shovel’s worst nightmare. With Makita's 6 Series two-cycle engine producing over 4 HP of raw performance, the six-sixteen will handle digging up to 16 inches deep of the toughest soils. Lighting, landscape and irrigation contractors will find this improved, lightweight trencher to get in and get out faster, easier and with less ground disturbance. The redesigned GeoRipper six-sixteen comes with two digging chains and a whole mess of helpful extras to make sure you can keep working. Be sure to visit the Turf's Up Radio Booth this Fall at the HNA/GIE PLUS EXPO for your chance to win. See you there!
LEARN MORE: https://www.minitrencher.com/
Wayne Volz runs into Brent Willet. Listen as they discuss the importance of Free time for all!
Learn more:
Willett’s Lawn & Landscape
Brent Willett
Willettslawn@gmail.com
Hurricane Dorian completely devastated this Bahama Island. This one hit too close to home! Our friend Brian Doonan Owns property on the island.
To help the poor people on the the island, please visit: https://www.gofundme.com/f/1qpqdwihio
Jeff Hesser visits with Michael Velys Sr. to talk about his extraordinary business he built through family values.
Learn more: https://www.revcoelectric.com/about-us/history
Wayne Volz found another woman in the industry. Just taking some time to relax by the lake.
Conder Mowing Service
Sandy Conder
Slc@bardstown.com
Bardstown, Ky
(502)507-6761
Adam Linnemann sits down with Katie Hesse of Garden Secrets. Katie is one of the few women in the Green Industry to take on the challenges of owning a Landscape business. Be sure to listen to what keeps her going and why she advises every one of us to "Never give up!"
Learn more:
GARDEN SECRETS
Katie Hesse
New Ulm, MN 56073
www.gardensecrets.org
Darren got the chance to interview the only woman in Delaware to own and operate an irrigation business. Be sure to listen to Kelly's views as she tackles what most people feel is a mans job. Ha!
Tip of the Week | Jeff Hesser of Cast Lighting offers you some great advice. Be sure to listen to his tip about documenting your lighting wires. This will come in handy down the road for sure!
Learn more: https://cast-lighting.com/
Turf's Up Radio Tip of the Week | Wayne Volz or Profits Unlimited
Learn more: https://www.greenindustrypros.com/home/contact/12225518/wayne-volz-waynes-lawn-service-and-profits
An extraordinary opportunity! Darren Gruner traps Jim Huston down for this great interview. Jim explains how he continues to help industry pros throughout the country. Something he's done for over 34 years.
Learn more: https://jrhuston.biz/
Christopher Brown | Teed and Brown - sits down with Jeff Demers of New England Compost to talk about manufacturing compost and how you can make sure to find high quality product for your landscaping needs.
Learn more: https://necompostct.com/
Live at in Kissimmee Florida, Michael Bright sits down with Jeremy to discuss Wedgworth's fertilizer.
To learn more visit www.wedgworth.com
Turf's Up Radio's, Brooke Ford sits down with another leader in the lighting industry.
Be sure not to miss this episode. Jim's got some unique ideas for lighting that are sure to inspire you!
Learn more about Jim. Visit ArchipelagoLighting.com
Brook Ford sits down with Brian Doonan, to discuss responsible concrete washout disposal.
Josh Elledge from Upmyinfluence.com. Learn from a true professional about how to gain exposure to your product or services by gaining respect in your field without spending too much money on advertising.
Check out Kory Ballard and Jason Walsmith as they gear up for a 6 hour road trip to Sturgis.
Erin Hobson Jeff Hesser Andrew Johnston Adam Linnemann Sahra Linnemann Darren Gruner Scott Muehlhauser
Here is a sneak peak into a Turf's Up Radio exclusive presentation of One on One with Kory Ballard of Ballard Inc. Be sure to visit Turfsupradio.com and download the Turf's Up Radio app to hear more episodes.