In this episode of Pool Magazine Podcast, host Joe Trusty talks with Nick Buchholz, owner of Basin Pool Designs, a boutique luxury pool builder based in Tennessee that's quickly making waves across the industry. Drawing from his background in culinary and fine dining, Buchholz approaches pool design with the same thoughtful execution, creativity, and discipline found in a Michelin-star kitchen. Together, they discuss 4 unique projects in Basin's portfolio and explore how the design-build firm combines form, function, and artistry to create one-of-a-kind outdoor living spaces that feel both intentional and unforgettable.

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In this episode of Pool Magazine Podcast, host Joe Trusty sits down with Frank Vitori, owner of AquaBlu, for a deep dive into some of the hottest trends in outdoor living: stylish in-pool furniture and eye-catching fire features. From the widespread adoption of sun shelves and modular lounge systems to the latest in fire bowls and sustainable poolside furnishings, Frank shares insider knowledge on the products trending with designers and homeowners right now. Whether you’re planning your dream backyard or looking to elevate your next pool project, this episode is packed with expert tips and ideas to help you create a standout space.

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In this episode of the Pool Magazine Podcast, we sit down with Scott Rajeski, CEO of Latham Pool Products, as the company approaches its 70th anniversary. Scott shares insights into Latham’s latest innovations — from the launch of their new plunge pool collection to cutting-edge technology like Measure by Latham Pools and the Pool Visualizer app. We discuss how shrinking lot sizes are shaping pool design trends, why fiberglass pools are gaining ground over concrete, and how Latham’s digital tools are transforming the homeowner experience. Tune in as we explore what’s next for one of the industry's most influential companies — and how Latham plans to lead the future of pool building through innovation, technology, and customer focus.

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In this episode of the Pool Magazine Podcast, host Joe Trusty sits down with Kendall Large, Vice President of Marketing at POOLCORP, the world’s largest wholesale distributor of swimming pool supplies. Kendall shares insights into POOLCORP’s sustained growth as the company celebrates its 44th year in business and its 30th anniversary as a publicly traded company.

We discuss the strategic significance of their acquisition of Pinch A Penny, the success of this year’s Retail Summit, and how POOLCORP is using technology, education, and marketing to empower independent retailers and pool pros. Kendall also opens up about the evolution of SWIMPACT! —from supporting swim lessons and lifeguard training to providing disaster relief for pool professionals affected by hurricanes and wildfires.

Tune in for a behind-the-scenes look at how POOLCORP is positioning itself for continued growth in 2025—and why their focus on people, community, and customer experience remains stronger than ever.

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Earlier this week, Pool Magazine reported that the Florida Swimming Pool Association (FSPA) released an urgent alert regarding SB 712 — a bill amendment that would have allowed general and building contractors to construct wet pool deck areas.

Thanks to swift action and strong advocacy from FSPA, the harmful language was successfully stripped from the amendment, protecting licensed pool contractors and preserving important industry standards. But just as that victory was secured, another — even more serious — threat emerged.

House Bill 991 aims to dismantle the Construction Industry Licensing Board (CILB) and eliminate continuing education (CE) requirements for contractors across the state of Florida. In this powerful and eye-opening episode of the Pool Magazine Podcast, we sit down with Dallas Thiesen, Chief Government Relations Officer for FSPA.

Thiesen explains how this late-session legislative push could dramatically impact Florida’s pool contractors — and the entire construction industry. We dive deep into the dangers of HB 991, a controversial proposal that threatens consumer protection, contractor accountability, and the future of Florida’s swimming pool standards. Learn how FSPA is leading the fight to preserve licensure, maintain education requirements, and rally the pool and spa industry to stand united against deregulation.

Read in Pool Magazine: A Series of Bad Bills Puts Florida Pool Industry in Jeopardy

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In this episode of the Pool Magazine Podcast, we’re joined by Israel Saari, Digital Solutions Category Manager at Pentair Pool, to explore how automation can revolutionize pool operations. With smart technology becoming a standard in homes, Pentair’s IntelliCenter and IntelliFlo3 systems offer seamless control, allowing pool pros and homeowners to manage pool functions through their smartphones. From adjusting lighting and temperature to monitoring water chemistry in real time, automation transforms pool care from a reactive task into a proactive strategy.

We’ll take a deep dive into remote monitoring, a game-changer for pool professionals looking to increase efficiency, reduce emergency visits, and boost revenue with premium service offerings. Learn how Pentair’s IntelliCenter ecosystem consolidates pump, heater, and chemistry data into one intuitive platform—empowering pool pros with actionable insights to deliver top-tier service. If you're looking to differentiate your business, enhance customer experience, and streamline operations, this episode is a must-listen. Tune in and discover how smart automation is shaping the future of the pool industry!

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Entering 2025, we explore some of the leading outdoor living trends that resonate with consumers and designers alike. Pool Magazine connects with Joe Raboine, Vice President of Oldcastle APG, a prominent North American manufacturer and distributor of building materials and outdoor living products to learn more about Microspaces, emerging trends like combining color and mixed-use materials, and incorporating natural elements to create a more zen-like experience in the backyard.

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Moses Campos blew the competition away this year with his stunning entry in the MillIon Dollar Pool Challenge hosted at the International Pool Spa Patio Expo in Dallas. Pool Magazine had a front row view of all of this year's amazing entries. The competition was stiff, but Moses won everyone over with an incredibly detailed design that not only resonated with the crowd but with a who's who panel of judges as well. In this episode of Pool Magazine podcast, we chat with Moses to learn more about his design and thought process behind his award-winning submission. Listen in as we take a deeper dive with the winner of this year's Million Dollar Pool Challenge.

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