Pool Pros text questions here

In this episode of Talking Pools, hosts Lee and Shane reflect on the past year in the swimming pool industry, discussing significant changes in leadership, the recognition of the trade, and the importance of planning for the future. They emphasize the need for work-life balance and personal growth as they look forward to 2026 and the upcoming Splash trade show.

takeaways

• The swimming pool industry has seen significant leadership changes recently.
• Recognition as a trade is a major milestone for the industry.
• Planning for the future is essential for personal and business growth.
• Work-life balance is crucial for long-term success in the industry.
• The upcoming Splash trade show in 2026 is highly anticipated.
• It's important to appreciate achievements from the past year.
• Setting goals for the new year can help maintain focus and direction.
• The industry needs more formal training and apprenticeships.
• Taking time for personal enjoyment is vital for overall well-being.
• Engaging with the community can lead to new opportunities and connections.

link : https://courses.thepoolshopcoach.com.au/store

Sound Bites

• "It's sink or swim for our industry."
• "We are a trade that can electrocute you."
• "Take care of your golf balls first."

Chapters

00:00
Welcome and Reflections on the Year

01:44
Industry Changes and Leadership Transitions

05:38
Recognition of the Swimming Pool Trade

10:50
Personal Growth and Business Planning for 2026

24:17
Work-Life Balance and Future Aspirations

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Email us: talkingpools@gmail.com

Pool Pros text questions here

It’s the day after Christmas, and Rudy is not here to sing carols—he’s here to correct one of the most common (and most expensive) field habits in pool service: measuring dry chemicals like you’re baking cookies. The “two cups equals a pound” rule gets dragged into the sunlight, and then the episode pivots into a full chemistry fundamentals reset that separates pool-water reality from industrial-label marketing.

Rudy breaks down the difference between “available chlorine” and “active strength,” explains why “stronger chlorine” is a myth once it hits the water, and connects that misunderstanding to overdosing, misapplied shock treatments, and combined chlorine problems that never seem to resolve. He also lays out the most overlooked concept in pool operations: oxidation and disinfection are not the same job, don’t happen on the same timeline, and don’t respond the same way to “just add more chlorine.”

If you’ve ever heard “cal-hypo is stronger,” “it’s almost as strong as chlorine gas,” or “hit it with 10x and it’ll break,” this episode is your reset button.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode

Rudy digs into the stuff that gets repeated in the industry until it sounds true:

Why “2 cups = 1 lb” is a trap
A pound is weight. A cup is volume. Different products—even the same chemical at the same percentage—can take up very different space depending on bulk density, granule size, moisture, and how it packs in a scoop.

The only responsible way to measure dry chems
A scale is the gold standard. But if you’re stuck doing field conversions, Rudy explains how to use the SDS to get the one number that matters: bulk density.

The correct pounds-to-cups method (no guessing, no folklore)
Rudy shows the logic: convert 1 lb to grams, convert grams to volume using bulk density, then convert that volume into cups. He also explains why SDS sheets often give ranges, and why that’s a red flag for “one universal scoop.”

Available chlorine vs. active strength
Available chlorine is a comparison metric—industrial chemistry language. Active strength is concentration—how much product you need to hit a target ppm. Mixing these concepts is where dosing myths come from.

The “chlorine identity” myth
Once dissolved, product identity doesn’t matter the way people talk about it. Pool water doesn’t contain “liquid chlorine” or “cal-hypo chlorine.” It contains free chlorine species in equilibrium, governed mainly by pH (and heavily influenced by cyanuric acid in stabilized pools).

Why oxidation ≠ disinfection (and why that matters)
Disinfection is a biological kill/inactivation mechanism driven largely by hypochlorous acid. Oxidation is electron-transfer chemistry attacking ammonia, urea, sweat, and organics. They don’t behave the same, and more chlorine doesn’t magically turn slow oxidation into fast oxidation.

Why shocking can make combined chlorine look worse
Rudy explains how organic nitrogen doesn’t “break clean” like ammonia-based breakpoint assumptions. Sometimes adding more chlorine increases chlorinated intermediates—so CC goes up before it goes down, or never resolves the way people expect.

Cyanuric acid changes the game

Where modern systems are headed

Non-chlorine oxidizers (MPS) in plain English

Support the show

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Email us: talkingpools@gmail.com

Pool Pros text questions here

In this holiday edition of Thursdays with Steve, Steve Sherwood checks in from a festive (and very on-brand) Hawaiian Christmas shirt and talks straight to the pros who keep pools running even when the calendar says “day off.” From commercial clients who expect service 365 days a year, to the reality of managing staff with families, to planning holiday schedules before the season hits—Steve breaks down how to protect your time, your team, and your business.

Then the episode pivots into a practical “Insurance Interlude” conversation with Pat of the California Pool Association about high-level pool inspections, protecting yourself from liability, and why general liability is not the same thing as professional liability. If you’re putting numbers in writing, making recommendations, or supporting insurance-related claims, this one is essential listening.

The episode closes with a reminder that your business doesn’t matter if your health falls apart—and Steve shares real talk on building more time off into your calendar, managing workload creep, and protecting your energy so you can stay in the game long-term.

Steve covers what pool pros actually deal with during the holidays—and how to make it easier next year:

Holiday service reality for commercial clients, and why some contracts quietly force you to work on sacred days. How to prevent that with better language and upfront communication, including shifting service times on holidays when possible and setting expectations months in advance.

How to plan time off like a real business owner instead of panicking the week of Christmas. Steve explains why the holiday conversation needs to happen before Thanksgiving, sometimes as early as October, especially when you have employees with kids or anyone traveling.

The “sweet spot” for single-operator pool pros. Steve shares his view that around 40–60 clients is the zone where an owner can still deliver high-level service without the wheels wobbling—while also keeping enough time for repairs, life, and sanity.

Time, money, and energy—the three currencies that actually run your business. Steve reinforces that if you can save even one of these without sacrificing quality, you’re building a company that lasts.

Why LA traffic is a business expense—whether you admit it or not. Steve talks about scheduling appointments during smarter time windows to avoid burning hours that you can’t bill for.

A holiday reminder about health and longevity. Steve encourages listeners to treat physical and mental health like a business asset, not an afterthought—because burnout doesn’t care how many clients you have.

Support the show

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

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Email us: talkingpools@gmail.com

Pool Pros text questions here

In this episode, Natalie Hood sits down with Ryan Walker to unpack how retail sales in the pool industry have evolved over the last two decades—and what dealers, builders, and retailers need to understand to stay competitive today.

From the rise of online shopping and social media influence to changing homeowner expectations and shifting economic realities, this conversation challenges long-held myths about retail, sales strategy, and customer behavior. Ryan draws on 20 years of experience across lifeguarding, distribution, manufacturing representation, and national sales to explain why the future of pool retail isn’t about fighting online competition—but learning how to work alongside it.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode

Retail Isn’t Dead—It’s Evolving
Ryan explains why online sales are no longer the enemy of brick-and-mortar stores and how retailers can use online visibility as a tool rather than a threat. Homeowners today expect convenience, information, and options—and stores that adapt win loyalty.

Why Personal Service Still Wins
Despite access to Amazon, TikTok, and Instagram, customers are still willing to pay more for expertise, education, and a trusted relationship. Retailers who focus on solving problems—not just selling products—stand out.

The Power of Analytics, Algorithms, and Social Media
From phones “listening” to user behavior to influencers shaping purchasing decisions, Natalie and Ryan break down how digital marketing now drives customer expectations before they ever walk into a store.

Selling the Solution, Not the Product
Ryan emphasizes that customers don’t need technical jargon—they need someone who understands their pain points. Whether it’s water loss, recurring algae, or sanitizer confusion, great sales start with the right questions.

Breaking the ‘We’ve Always Done It This Way’ Mindset
Long-standing habits can quietly cap growth. This episode explores how flexibility, testing new ideas, and being open to global trends can increase profitability without sacrificing integrity.

Why Dealers Must Show What’s Possible
Just like car dealerships show upgraded models, pool professionals should present options—even if the customer thinks they want the “basic” version. Many homeowners don’t know what’s available until someone shows them.

Economic Reality Has Changed
From rising costs to dual-income households and post-COVID income shifts, the conversation highlights why price sensitivity isn’t what it used to be—and why experience and value matter more than shaving a few dollars off the ticket.

Key Takeaways

• Online competition is unavoidable—but it can be leveraged
• Education and trust justify premium pricing
• Customers want guidance, not resistance
• Social media shapes expectations before the sale
• Retail success depends on adaptability and curiosity
• Selling without passion turns stores into warehouses

About the Guest

Ryan Walker brings more than 20 years of industry experience, starting as a lifeguard and facility manager before moving into distribution, manufacturing representation, and national sales. His career spans multiple climates, pool types, and retail models, giving him a wide-angle view of what works—and what doesn’t—in today’s poo

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Email us: talkingpools@gmail.com

Pool Pros text questions here

In this conversation, Paulette and Andrea discuss their recent hiatus due to personal losses and the challenges faced in pool maintenance. They delve into the importance of understanding the Langelier Saturation Index (LSI) and its role in water chemistry, emphasizing the need for proper water balance to prevent issues like scaling and corrosion. The discussion also covers practical tips for maintaining pools, particularly in relation to salt systems and common misconceptions about water chemistry.

takeaways

• The recent hiatus was due to personal losses.
• Understanding LSI is crucial for pool maintenance.
• Proper water balance enhances disinfection and swimmer comfort.
• Calcium hardness and total hardness are different measurements.
• Salt systems can contribute to scaling issues in pools.
• Regular testing of water chemistry is essential for pool care.
• Cyanuric acid affects total alkalinity calculations.
• Temperature impacts water chemistry and LSI.
• Maintaining a balanced LSI prevents corrosion and scaling.
• Communication with clients about pool care is vital.

Sound Bites

• "We had a lot going on."
• "It was really super sudden."
• "I had no one had taught me it."

Chapters

00:00
Introduction and Personal Updates

02:40
Dealing with Loss and Challenges

11:44
Understanding LSI and Water Balance

14:40
Importance of Proper Water Chemistry

17:30
Exploring Calcium and Stabilizer Levels

19:31
The Langelier Saturation Index Explained

22:07
Practical Applications of LSI in Pool Maintenance

32:19
Understanding Pool Chemistry and Its Impact

35:05
The Importance of the LSI in Pool Maintenance

38:11
Navigating Alkalinity and Acid Adjustments

41:21
Total Dissolved Solids: Myths and Realities

43:24
Calculating the LSI: Tools and Techniques

46:46
Challenges with Salt Pools and Scaling Issues

54:32
Final Thoughts and Future Directions

Support the show

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

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Email us: talkingpools@gmail.com

Pool Pros text questions here

In this episode of the Talking Pools podcast, Lee and Shane discuss the holiday season, share nostalgic memories of Christmas, and explore innovative pool products from the US that they wish to see in Australia and New Zealand. They highlight various tools for pool maintenance, emerging technologies in pool care, and look forward to the upcoming Splash Trade Show in 2026, emphasizing the importance of new products in enhancing service delivery in the pool industry.

takeaways

• The holiday season brings nostalgia and family memories.
• Innovative pool products from the US are desired in Australia.
• Tools like the Skimmy Pro enhance safety in pool maintenance.
• Preventative tools can save costs for pool service technicians.
• Emerging technologies are crucial for modern pool care.
• The Splash Trade Show is a significant event for the industry.
• Networking opportunities at trade shows can lead to new products.
• The importance of adapting to new technologies in pool service.
• Christmas cheer is essential for family bonding.
• The podcast aims to connect suppliers with distributors in Australia.

link : https://courses.thepoolshopcoach.com.au/store

courses.thepoolshopcoach.com.au

Sound Bites

• "I'm living the dream, Lee."
• "Everybody raves about it."
• "It's free for entry."

Chapters

00:00
Holiday Cheer and Nostalgia

05:28
Innovative Pool Products for Australia and New Zealand

18:00
Essential Tools for Pool Maintenance

22:45
Emerging Technologies in Pool Care

28:19
Looking Ahead: Trade Shows and Future Innovations

Support the show

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

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Email us: talkingpools@gmail.com

Pool Pros text questions here

In this episode, Rudy Stankowitz dives deep into the complexities of pool chemistry, particularly focusing on chloramines and breakpoint chlorination. He shares personal anecdotes, discusses industry events, and answers listener questions about lagoon pools versus traditional pools. The conversation emphasizes the importance of understanding water treatment processes and the misconceptions surrounding chloramines in swimming pools.

takeaways

• Chloramines are a persistent issue in pool maintenance.
• There is no singular solution to eliminate chloramines.
• Proper water chemistry and airflow are crucial for pool health.
• Lagoon pools operate differently than traditional pools.
• Breakpoint chlorination is often misunderstood in the industry.
• Organic chloramines are more challenging to eliminate than inorganic ones.
• Superchlorination can sometimes worsen combined chlorine issues.
• Understanding the chemistry behind pool maintenance is essential.
• Municipal water treatment can impact pool water quality.
• Effective pool management requires ongoing education and adaptation.

Sound Bites

• "It's a matter of dollars."
• "Check it out. Phenomenal."
• "Somebody screwed up the math."

Chapters

00:00
Holiday Greetings and Reflections

01:21
Chloramines: Understanding the Challenge

03:10
Upcoming Speaking Engagements and Industry Events

10:03
Personal Experiences: Dining and Ghost Hunting

12:53
Listener Questions: Natural vs. Traditional Pools

20:51
Breakpoint Chlorination: Myths and Realities

40:33
Closing Thoughts and Future Episodes

Support the show

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

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Email us: talkingpools@gmail.com

Pool Pros text questions here

In this episode of Talking Pools, Wayne shares his harrowing experience with a cardiac event that nearly cost him his life. He discusses the support he received from his family and medical professionals, reflecting on the importance of health and recovery. The conversation then shifts to the implications of such health scares on life perspectives and the lessons learned. The hosts also delve into the complexities of insurance, particularly regarding hazmat liability in the pool service industry, emphasizing the need for proper coverage. Finally, they address communication challenges within the pool service team, highlighting the importance of clear communication with clients and among team members to ensure smooth operations and maintain trust.

takeaways

• Wayne experienced a cardiac event that was life-threatening.
• The importance of immediate medical response and support from family.
• Health issues can change one's perspective on life.
• Insurance coverage is crucial for pool service businesses.
• Communication is key in maintaining client relationships.
• Employees must be responsible and communicate effectively.
• Trust between employers and employees is essential.
• Health scares can serve as wake-up calls for better self-care.
• Proper training and communication can prevent misunderstandings.
• It's important to engage with listeners and share experiences.

Sound Bites

• "I am the walking dead right now"
• "It's the weird stuff that happens"
• "You can't babysit your employees"

Chapters

00:00
Wayne's Health Scare: A Personal Journey

05:51
Recovery and Reflections on Life

11:30
Understanding Cardiac Events and Their Impact

14:36
Insurance Insights: Protecting Your Business

20:39
Communication Challenges in Pool Service

32:31
Navigating Employee Responsibility and Trust

Support the show

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

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Email us: talkingpools@gmail.com