Episodes

  • Pool Sanitation
    Jan 15 2026

    Pool Pros text questions here

    In this episode of the Talking Pools podcast, hosts Steve and Wayne discuss a range of topics related to pool maintenance, health concerns, and industry practices. Wayne shares his recent health challenges, including a hospitalization due to E. coli, which leads to a discussion on the importance of sanitation in pools, particularly concerning E. coli and Giardia. The hosts emphasize the need for proper chlorine levels and regular shocking of pools to maintain safety. They also delve into the nuances of managing commercial versus residential pools, the significance of trade shows for networking, and the challenges of heating pools in older facilities. The episode concludes with listener engagement and a call to action for feedback and questions.


    Takeaways

    Wayne shares his health challenges and recovery.
    E. coli and Giardia are significant concerns in pool sanitation.
    Proper chlorine levels are crucial for pool safety.
    Regular shocking of pools is necessary to prevent contamination.
    Trade shows are valuable for networking and learning.
    Commercial pool management differs significantly from residential.
    Pool heating can be challenging, especially in older facilities.
    It's important to vet commercial clients before taking them on.
    Maintaining profitability in the pool business is essential.
    Listener engagement is encouraged for future topics.

    Sound bites

    "We love having you here."
    "You want to make a plan."
    "Turn off the boiler."


    Chapters

    00:00 Welcome Back and Health Updates
    02:58 Understanding E. Coli and Giardia in Pools
    06:00 Sanitation Standards and Pool Maintenance
    08:59 Shocking Pools: Best Practices and Guidelines
    11:54 Navigating Pool Trade Shows and Networking
    14:54 Commercial vs. Residential Pool Management
    17:52 Challenges in Pool Heating and Maintenance
    21:07 Final Thoughts and Listener Engagement

    Support the show

    Thank you so much for listening! You can find us on social media:

    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Tik Tok

    Email us: talkingpools@gmail.com

    Show More Show Less
    1 hr and 1 min
  • Western Pool and Spa Show Myths
    Jan 14 2026

    Pool Pros text questions here

    The conversation between Natalie Hood (The Grit Game) and Eric Nielson (The Western Pool and Spa Show) highlights the Western Pool and Spa Show's significance in education, networking, and community building within the pool and spa industry. The speakers debunk common myths about the show, highlighting its inclusivity and global reach. They discuss the importance of continuous education for professionals and the valuable connections made at trade shows. The conversation also touches on the diverse educational offerings available, catering to all levels of expertise, and the show's evolving format to meet industry needs.

    Sound Bites

    • "Networking at trade shows leads to valuable connections."
    • "Attendees come from various states and countries."
    • "Sales reps at the show are often industry experts."

    takeaways

    • The Western Pool and Spa Show is not just for service professionals.
    • Education is a crucial investment for industry professionals.
    • Networking at trade shows leads to valuable connections.
    • The show has expanded its demographic beyond just service professionals.
    • Attendees come from various states and countries, showcasing its global reach.
    • Sales reps at the show are often industry experts with valuable insights.
    • The education sessions cater to all levels, not just beginners.
    • The show offers a mix of technical and business education.
    • Community and camaraderie are strong within the industry.
    • The show is evolving to meet the needs of a changing industry.

    Chapters

    00:00
    Introduction to the Western Pool and Spa Show

    18:30
    Busting Myths About the Show

    24:01
    The Importance of Education at the Show

    28:34
    Networking and Relationships in the Industry

    34:51
    Expanding Educational Opportunities

    38:15
    Timing and Cost Justifications for Attendance

    38:39
    The Value of Education in the Pool Industry

    41:16
    Networking and Community at Trade Shows

    44:02
    The Importance of Continuous Learning

    Support the show

    Thank you so much for listening! You can find us on social media:

    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Tik Tok

    Email us: talkingpools@gmail.com

    Show More Show Less
    55 mins
  • Navigating Pool Maintenance
    Jan 12 2026

    Pool Pros text questions here

    In this episode of Mondays Down Under, the hosts discuss the challenges and successes of the past year in the pool maintenance industry, highlighting the benefits of BufferZone and its features. They also introduce FlowZone, a new software solution for commercial pools, and share insights on future developments and upgrades for both platforms. The conversation emphasizes the importance of customer service and the evolution of technology in the industry.


    Takeaways

    The importance of setting customer expectations during holiday periods.
    BufferZone offers a wide range of features that many users are not fully utilizing.
    The messaging system in BufferZone enhances communication among staff.
    FlowZone is designed specifically for managing commercial pool facilities.
    The integration of BufferZone with other software solutions like Lightspeed is beneficial for users.
    Future upgrades for BufferZone will focus on technology enhancements and AI-driven reporting.
    Customer feedback is crucial for the development of new features.
    The team behind BufferZone is passionate and dedicated to customer service.
    FlowZone provides compliance and safety features for aquatic facilities.
    The software solutions are available globally, making them accessible to a wide audience.

    Sound bites

    "Living the dream as always."
    "It's a fantastic process."
    "Don't hesitate to reach out."


    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction and Welcome
    01:02 Reflections on the Past Year
    06:00 The Benefits of BufferZone
    14:25 Innovations and Features of BufferZone
    18:13 FlowZone: A New Solution for Commercial Pools
    28:59 Future Developments and Upgrades
    42:42 Closing Remarks and Contact Information

    BufferZone
    BufferZone has been created by a frustrated pool maintenance company

    The Pool Shop Coach
    an online store offering industry-specific business mentoring, coaching, and training programs

    Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

    Support the show

    Thank you so much for listening! You can find us on social media:

    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Tik Tok

    Email us: talkingpools@gmail.com

    Show More Show Less
    50 mins
  • Pool Chemistry is Not Static, it's Kinetic
    Jan 9 2026

    Pool Pros text questions here

    In this episode, Rudy Stankowitz discusses the complexities of pool chemistry, emphasizing the importance of understanding chlorine's role, the significance of stain identification, and the kinetic nature of chemical reactions in pool maintenance. He shares personal reflections on grief and loss, providing a heartfelt context for the conversation. The episode highlights the need for patience in chemical processes and the common misconceptions surrounding pool maintenance practices.

    A new song in this episode

    • Grief can impact our focus and clarity.
    • Chlorine should be viewed as a residual disinfectant, not a catch-all solution.
    • Secondary systems in pool chemistry are essential for effective treatment.
    • Identifying stains is crucial before attempting to treat them.
    • Pool chemistry operates on kinetics, not just static measurements.
    • Fast reactions can obscure slower, more important processes.
    • ORP readings can be misleading if not interpreted correctly.
    • Time is a critical factor in chemical reactions and pool maintenance.
    • Understanding the environment is key to effective pool chemistry.
    • Experienced operators often achieve better results by respecting time and allowing reactions to complete.

    Sound Bites

    • "Chlorine is your downstream insurance."
    • "Pool chemistry is not static, it's kinetic."
    • "Chlorine's not weak."

    Chapters

    00:00
    Navigating Grief and Loss

    02:10
    Understanding Chlorine and Secondary Systems

    09:13
    The Role of UV and Ozone in Pool Chemistry

    11:54
    Advanced Oxidation Processes Explained

    14:25
    Identifying and Treating Pool Stains

    16:22
    The Importance of Kinetics in Pool Chemistry

    23:33
    Understanding ORP and Reaction Dynamics

    28:07
    The Professional Approach to Pool Management

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    Online Pool Classes
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    Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

    Support the show

    Thank you so much for listening! You can find us on social media:

    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Tik Tok

    Email us: talkingpools@gmail.com

    Show More Show Less
    36 mins
  • Pool Consulting & Essential Tax Strategies
    Jan 8 2026

    Pool Pros text questions here

    In this episode of the Talking Pools podcast, host Steve Sherwood discusses various challenges faced in pool consulting, including the importance of proper tax management, navigating pool temperature issues, and the role of communication in managing client expectations. He also delves into the significance of general liability insurance and the trends shaping the pool industry in 2026. The conversation emphasizes the need for pool professionals to maintain clear communication with clients and to manage their business effectively to ensure profitability and client satisfaction.

    takeaways

    • Proper tax management is crucial for pool service businesses.
    • Pool temperature management can be a significant challenge.
    • Communication with clients is key to successful pool management.
    • General liability insurance is essential for protecting your business.
    • Not every client is a good fit for your business.
    • Chemical management in pools requires careful attention.
    • Trimming down difficult clients can improve business efficiency.
    • Understanding legal challenges in pool consulting is important.
    • Staying updated on industry trends can help in business planning.
    • Using capturing apps can enhance communication and accountability.

    Sound Bites

    • "You can't work your job today."
    • "This is how I can protect you."
    • "Not every client is for you."

    Chapters

    00:00
    Introduction to Pool Consulting Challenges

    02:35
    The Importance of Proper Tax Management

    05:33
    Navigating Pool Temperature Issues

    08:50
    Consulting in the Face of Legal Challenges

    11:39
    Handling Chemical Management in Pools

    14:37
    Understanding General Liability Insurance

    17:06
    The Role of Communication in Pool Management

    20:06
    Client Management and Expectations

    22:39
    Setting Goals for the New Year

    Support the show

    Thank you so much for listening! You can find us on social media:

    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Tik Tok

    Email us: talkingpools@gmail.com

    Show More Show Less
    44 mins
  • Every Child a Swimmer with Casey McGovern
    Jan 7 2026

    Pool Pros text questions here

    In this episode of the Talking Pools podcast, Natalie Hood and Casey McGovern discuss the critical topic of water safety and drowning prevention. They address common myths surrounding swim lessons, the importance of early education, and the need for constant supervision around water. Casey shares her personal journey as a mother of a drowning victim and her advocacy work with Every Child a Swimmer. The conversation emphasizes the importance of year-round swim lessons, the dangers of floaties, and the need for funding and resources to support water safety programs. They also highlight the necessity of normalizing discussions about water safety to prevent future tragedies.

    takeaways

    • Water safety is layered and often misunderstood.
    • Supervision alone is not enough to prevent drowning.
    • Swim lessons can start as early as six months.
    • Drowning can happen quickly and silently.
    • Floaties provide a false sense of security.
    • Drowning risks exist beyond just pools.
    • Year-round swim lessons are essential for skill retention.
    • Funding for swim programs is often limited.
    • Education is key to preventing drowning incidents.
    • Every child deserves access to swim lessons.

    Sound Bites

    • "Drowning is fast and silent."
    • "Invest in swim lessons early."
    • "Every child can learn to swim."

    Chapters

    00:00
    Introduction to Water Safety and Myths

    01:25
    Casey's Personal Journey and Advocacy

    04:35
    The Importance of Early Swim Lessons

    08:56
    Understanding Drowning: Myths and Realities

    12:41
    Supervision and Safety Measures

    19:32
    Drowning Risks Beyond the Pool

    24:48
    The Dangers of Floaties

    31:33
    Year-Round Swim Lessons

    37:19
    Funding for Water Safety Programs

    43:32
    Normalizing Water Safety Conversations

    Support the show

    Thank you so much for listening! You can find us on social media:

    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Tik Tok

    Email us: talkingpools@gmail.com

    Show More Show Less
    53 mins
  • Pump Cavitation, Abduction, Possession, and More!
    Jan 6 2026

    Pool Pros text questions here

    Andrea and Paulette walk through how to troubleshoot circulation problems, filtration issues, heaters, automation quirks, and equipment that technically powers on but doesn’t actually do its job. They talk about why symptoms lie, why homeowners unintentionally sabotage diagnostics, and how skipping fundamentals leads to repeat service calls.

    The Breaking News segments explore documented reports of ghost sightings and cryptid encounters connected to swimming pools, how those stories end up in newspapers and local news outlets, and why pools—controlled, predictable spaces—become lightning rods for “something’s not right” moments. These interludes also reinforce the importance of documentation, camera footage, and not dismissing reports until conditions are verified.

    Throughout the episode, Andrea and Paulette emphasize thinking before acting, documenting before reacting, and knowing when a situation is a pool problem, a wildlife problem, or a “this is above our pay grade” problem.

    Support the show

    Thank you so much for listening! You can find us on social media:

    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Tik Tok

    Email us: talkingpools@gmail.com

    Show More Show Less
    58 mins
  • Expanding Your Offerings
    Jan 4 2026

    Pool Pros text questions here

    In this episode of the Talking Pools podcast, Lee and Shane discuss strategies for expanding pool service businesses in 2026. They explore the transition from residential to commercial pools, the importance of qualifications and insurance, and the need for proactive maintenance and testing. The conversation also highlights the significance of utilizing existing databases, creating innovative service packages, and networking to uncover new revenue streams. The hosts emphasize the importance of being proactive in business growth and adapting to market demands.

    takeaways

    • The New Year is a great time to consider business growth.
    • Qualifications are essential for entering the commercial pool space.
    • Insurance is crucial when dealing with commercial pools.
    • Understanding the difference between residential and commercial pools is key.
    • Testing and maintenance frequency increases with commercial pools.
    • Utilizing your database can uncover untapped business opportunities.
    • Innovative service packages can enhance customer offerings.
    • Networking can lead to valuable partnerships and referrals.
    • Exploring new revenue streams can diversify income.
    • Being proactive in business strategies is essential for success.

    Sound Bites

    • "New Year, new you."
    • "Think outside that square."
    • "Be proactive, not reactive."

    Chapters

    00:00
    Introduction and New Year Aspirations

    02:08
    Exploring Commercial Pool Opportunities

    06:49
    Understanding Qualifications and Insurance for Commercial Pools

    15:53
    Defining Commercial vs Residential Pools

    19:47
    Navigating Responsibilities and Risks in Commercial Pool Management

    23:46
    Leveraging Your Database for Business Growth

    27:22
    Expanding Service Offerings and New Revenue Streams

    31:30
    Networking and Collaborating for Business Success

    35:36
    The Importance of Proactive Business Strategies

    39:36
    Conclusion and Future Outlook

    #PoolService
    #CommercialPools
    #BusinessGrowth
    #IndustryQualifications
    #PoolInsurance
    #PoolMaintenance
    #ServiceOfferings
    #IndustryNetworking
    #RevenueStreams
    #ProactiveStrategies

    BufferZone
    BufferZone has been created by a frustrated pool maintenance company

    The Pool Shop Coach
    an online store offering industry-specific business mentoring, coaching, and training programs

    Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

    Support the show

    Thank you so much for listening! You can find us on social media:

    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Tik Tok

    Email us: talkingpools@gmail.com

    Show More Show Less
    45 mins