Talking Pools Podcast
Forget chasing chlorine headaches and battling algae wars alone. The Talking Pools Podcast is your weekly escape from pool purgatory, where 250+ years of combined pro wisdom explodes into actionable hacks, mind-blowing tips, and secrets so ancient they make Poseidon jealous.Think of it as your weekly poolside braintrust, fueled by eight seasoned pros, each a rockstar in their own aquatic lane. Got a filtration fiasco? Chemical conundrum? Equipment enigma? No problem. We've got a host for that:The Tech Titan: Unravels the mysteries of pumps, filters, and gizmos that make pools tick (without the electrical shocks).The Chem Crusader: Your...
This Is Your Brain on Pools: Gen X vs Gen Z
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In this engaging conversation, Sarah and Rudy explore a variety of topics ranging from the pool industry to 80s pop culture references. They share insights about their experiences in the field, discuss nostalgic catchphrases, and delve into the evolution of slang over the decades. The light-hearted banter and humor make for an entertaining and informative session that highlights the connections between past and present cultural phenomena.
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Pregnant, Poolside, and Probably High on Fumes
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Welcome to the most accidentally themed episode of Talking Pools, where we started with “fuck it, we’ll do it live” and somehow ended up knee-deep in pregnancy, chlorine jugs, and naming babies after pool chemicals. Don’t ask how we got here — we don’t know either.
This week, Andrea & Paulette juggle barking dogs, clinking dishes, and a door-scratching pet apocalypse while announcing that yes, pool pros can, in fact, clean pools while pregnant — provided you’re fine with half-full chlorine jugs, pulling vacuums like a gladiator, and...
The Pool Pro Hunger Games
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In this episode of Mondays Down Under, host Lee Salisbury dives into essential strategies for pool service businesses to prepare for the upcoming summer season. Lee emphasizes the importance of pricing strategies, labor costs, logistics, customer contracts, database management, and effective payment systems to enhance profitability and efficiency. Drawing from his experience in the pool industry, he shares practical tips to help listeners optimize operations and set themselves up for a successful season ahead.
Takeaways
Prepare for the summer season to hit the ground running...Exploring Pool Chemistry with Q Hales
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In this episode of the Talking Pools podcast, Rudy Stankowitz interviews Q Hales, a prominent figure in pool chemistry and maintenance. They discuss the formation of OnBalance, a collaborative effort aimed at educating pool professionals about water chemistry and sustainable practices. Q shares insights from his extensive experience in the industry, addressing common myths, the importance of understanding pool chemistry, and the role of research in improving practices. The conversation emphasizes the need for knowledge sharing among service technicians and the significance of environmental responsibility in pool maintenance.
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A chiller is not a cold plunge pool!
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In this episode of the Talking Pools podcast, hosts Steve and Wayne discuss the top 10 nominees for the Mentor of the Year award in the pool industry, highlighting the importance of mentorship. They also delve into the differences between cold plunge pools and chillers, explaining their distinct purposes and benefits. The conversation shifts to insights from the insurance industry, particularly regarding pool service and construction. Finally, they share experiences navigating customer expectations and the importance of clear communication in service delivery.
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You Wanted the Pool—Now It Wants You Back
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In this episode, Sarah dives into an uncomfortable but necessary truth: too many pool owners think the work ends the day the pool is filled. From the outside, the water may look like a backyard dream, but if it’s left without care, it quickly becomes a breeding ground for problems—algae, unsafe water, and costly damage.
Sarah explores the mindset of “attainment without upkeep,” breaking down why simply having a pool doesn’t make someone a pool owner in the truest sense. She shares real-world examples of neglect, explains the risks...
More Pool Service Complaints. I quit. I'm done.
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In this episode of the Talking Pools Show, Andrea and Paulette discuss their experiences with pool maintenance, including challenges with customer complaints and the importance of proper pool care. They also touch on health concerns like swimmer's ear, tragic incidents in water parks, and the need for hurricane preparedness for pools. The conversation wraps up with an announcement about a design contest for the show.
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The Ideal Customer? Good on you, Peter.
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In this episode of Talking Pools, the hosts celebrate Peter's contributions to the industry while discussing the characteristics of ideal clients in both retail and mobile pool services. They share personal anecdotes about challenging customer interactions, the importance of setting clear expectations, and strategies for managing difficult clients. The conversation emphasizes the need for effective communication and the balance between good and bad clients, ultimately highlighting the significance of client relationships in the pool service business.
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Floc Hard or Go Home: Greg Beard’s 35 Summers of Pool Wisdom
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This week on Floc-It Friday, Rudy sits down with Greg “Beard Man” Beard—poolside philosopher, calcium whisperer, and one of the Top 10 Mentors nominated for the 2025 Talking Pools Podcast Mentor of the Year Award. Greg has spent 35 summers in the field training rookies, guiding veterans, and mentoring like it’s a martial art.
From confronting internet undercutting to saving techs from costly mistakes, Greg shares the lessons, stories, and no-BS truths that define a lifetime in the pool industry. And yes, Rudy announces the full list of Top 10 M...
You have to reevaluate your pricing structure.
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In this episode of the Talking Pools podcast, Steve and Wayne discuss the significance of mentorship in the pool industry, emphasizing how it can lead to breakthroughs and prevent burnout. They explore the dynamics of competition, pricing strategies, and the essential role of insurance for pool service businesses. The conversation also touches on the importance of building relationships within the industry and the impact of online communities. Wayne shares insights on navigating challenges and fostering collaboration among pool professionals.
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Don't slam your pole on the ground
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In this conversation, Sarah discusses the importance of self-care and equipment maintenance for pool technicians. She emphasizes the need for proper hydration, nutrition, and safety precautions while working in extreme weather conditions. Sarah also highlights the significance of stretching and physical maintenance to prevent injuries. Additionally, she shares practical tips for taking care of equipment, ensuring longevity and efficiency in their work. Overall, the conversation serves as a guide for pool technicians to prioritize their health and equipment care to enhance their performance and safety.
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Route Shuffle Drama: Andrea’s Unexpected Detour
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This week on the Talking Pools Podcast, Andrea shares a behind-the-scenes story that every pool pro can relate to—getting reassigned to a different service route after a property manager’s complaint. What really happened? Was it about the water? The filter? Or something completely out of left field?
Andrea takes us through the awkward conversation with her boss, the eyebrow-raising “feedback” from the property manager, and the ripple effect it had on her week. We dig into what it’s like to have someone else’s opinion—valid or not—impact you...
Peter Hangs Up the Net
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In this episode of the Talking Pools podcast, Peter, Shane, and Lee reflecting on personal health challenges, and career transitions. They explore the emotional aspects of leaving a long-standing career, the impact of mentorship on personal and professional growth, and the importance of prioritizing family and well-being. The conversation concludes with gratitude for the experiences shared and the relationships built within the industry.
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Who are the TOP 10 Mentors? Who are you? What is WOW? Is BIG BROTHER Watching? đź‘€
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In this episode of the Talking Pools Podcast, Rudy discusses the launch of the Women of Water initiative by Pool Corp and PHTA, emphasizing the importance of recognizing the contributions of women in the pool industry. He shares insights on how personal stories and motivations can shape professional identities and the need for genuine empowerment and mentorship. The conversation also touches on the tensions within the industry, particularly between independent professionals and larger corporations, and the importance of transparency and recognition in fostering a supportive community.
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Natural Disasters in the Service Industry and Crucial Role of Communication
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communication, natural disasters, insurance, client relations, pool maintenance, service industry, water chemistry, customer service, liability, business management
In this episode of the Talking Pools podcast, hosts Steve and Wayne discuss various topics ranging from recent natural disasters to the importance of effective communication in the service industry. They share personal experiences with earthquakes and tsunamis, emphasizing the need for preparedness and awareness. The conversation shifts to the significance of clear communication between service providers and clients, highlighting how misunderstandings can lead to service issues. They also delve into insurance insights...
You Just Have to Pull Harder
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pool equipment, color vision bubblers, Pentair IntelliBright, construction challenges, installation issues, foundation problems, pool maintenance, electrical breakers, pool lighting, pool repair
In this conversation, Drew and Sarah discuss various challenges faced in the pool maintenance and installation industry. They delve into specific issues related to color vision bubblers, Pentair IntelliBright lights, and the importance of proper installation practices. The conversation also touches on construction challenges, foundation issues affecting pools, and the critical role of electrical breakers in ensuring the functionality of pool equipment. Throughout the discussion, they share personal...
Borates, Dangers Lurking in Hotel Pools, and Heat Stroke
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Borates, pool safety, heat stroke, MRSA, chlorine, health risks, swimming pool maintenance, heat-related illnesses, summer safety, pool infections, public safety
In this episode of Talking Pools - BORATES! Followed by Andrea on the alarming health risks associated with swimming pools, particularly focusing on a case of a tourist who suffered severe injuries after swimming in a poorly maintained hotel pool. She emphasizes the importance of pool safety and regular maintenance. The conversation then shifts to the serious topic of heat-related illnesses, especially relevant for those working outdoors in hot...
The Emotional Journey of Selling a Business
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In this episode of Mondays Down Under, the hosts discuss the recent sale of a pool shop and the emotional and logistical aspects of running a business in the pool industry. They explore the importance of preparation for selling a business, the role of staff during transitions, and the impact of technology and AI on the industry. The conversation emphasizes the need for due diligence and maintaining strong customer relationships to ensure business success.
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These changes aren't going away.
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In this episode of the Talking Pools Podcast, Rudy Stankowitz dives into the complexities of the pool industry, discussing personal updates, the importance of mentorship, the impact of climate change, the rise of automation and AI, challenges posed by unlicensed technicians, and the evolving landscape of water chemistry regulations. He emphasizes the need for professionals to adapt to these changes while maintaining their reputation in a digital age filled with review challenges.
takeaways
How to Seek Out Mentors in the Pool Industry
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Wayne and Steve kick off the episode with a light-hearted discussion about their busy weeks and the unexpected busyness of retirement. Steve's Storytime: Steve shares a detailed account of a challenging pool renovation project in Palisades, involving fire damage and complex insurance requirements. Mentorship Discussion: The hosts delve into the importance of mentorship in the pool industry, sharing personal experiences and offering advice on finding and becoming a mentor. Listener Interaction: Wayne updates listeners on his recovery from hip surgery and encourages audience engagement by inviting questions and topic suggestions. Closing Remarks...
Hot starts are bad đź‘Ž
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In this conversation, Andrew discusses the intricacies of pool startups, focusing on the importance of proper plaster care, chemical procedures, and maintenance practices. He emphasizes the significance of using calcium over acid during startups and the necessity of regular brushing and filter cleaning to ensure optimal pool conditions. The discussion also touches on the challenges faced during pool construction and the critical role of maintaining water chemistry throughout the startup process.
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Poolside Chats with Andrea & Paulette
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Episode Highlights:
Florida HVAC Bill Debate: Dive into the ongoing discussion about a new bill that could allow HVAC professionals to install pool heaters, a move opposed by the Florida Swimming Pool Association. Viral Pool Trends: Discover the story behind a viral TikTok video featuring a unique black pool design that has captured the internet's attention. Pool Chemistry Insights: Learn about the causes of purple pool water and the role of manganese and copper cyanurate in pool maintenance. Silver Algaecide Experiment: Andrea shares her experience with a new silver-based algaecide...
Turns Out You Can Win Awards Without Being a Total Tool
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In this episode of the Talking Pools podcast, Peter, Shane, and Lee discuss the challenges of winter in Australia, the importance of work-life balance in business ownership, and the value of mentorship in the pool industry. They also explore the role of awards in recognizing excellence and the evolution of award criteria over the years. The conversation highlights the significance of mystery shopping as a quality control measure and emphasizes the need to raise industry standards. The hosts conclude with reflections on the importance of learning and supporting one another in the...
Legacy is not given, it's earned.
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In this episode of the Talking Pools podcast, Rudy Stankowitz discusses the challenges and triumphs within the pool industry. He reflects on personal experiences with adversity, emphasizes the importance of mentorship, and introduces the exciting new Championship Belt Award for the Mentor of the Year. Rudy also addresses pressing issues such as skyrocketing insurance premiums, a chemical supply crisis, and the looming threat of sales tax enforcement on pool service labor. The conversation is a call to action for pool professionals to support one another and navigate these challenges together.
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Time is valuable, and you should be paid for it.
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In this episode of Talking Pools, hosts Steve and Wayne discuss a variety of topics ranging from personal health updates to the challenges of insurance in the pool industry. They delve into the advancements in medical technology, particularly in hip replacement surgeries, and share personal experiences with insurance claims. The conversation shifts to the growing trend of virtual pool inspections and the importance of timely inspections in construction projects. They also touch on the value of expertise in the pool service industry and the necessity of worker safety and insurance coverage. The...
A Robot Can’t Replace a Human Giving a F*ck
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In this episode, Sarah Bero walks through the pros, cons, and must-know facts about the most common pool cleaning systems—suction cleaners, pressure cleaners, robotic cleaners, and in-floor cleaning systems. With a no-BS approach, Sarah breaks down what each system does, what they don’t do, and why no machine will ever fully replace the trained eye (and grit) of a human pool tech.
đź’ˇ Takeaways:
Suction cleaners are effective for light debris but require caution to avoid safety hazards.Pressure cleaners can be powerful but come with added c...Strange Injury After a Dive into a Client's Pool
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In this episode, the hosts discuss personal experiences, including health issues related to a ruptured eardrum, and share positive feedback from the community regarding their pool maintenance services. They also address safety concerns in the pool industry, recent news about pool recalls, and delve into the challenges of managing chemical levels in saltwater pools. The conversation emphasizes the importance of community support and the complexities of pool maintenance.
Takeaways
The host experienced a ruptured eardrum due to jumping into a pool.
Community feedback can significantly boost...
Lee's Rampage - Pool Business Banking
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In this episode of Mondays Down Under, Lee is mad. The hosts discuss the evolution of payment methods over the years, reflecting on the transition from traditional methods like checks and cash to modern electronic funds transfers and cashless transactions. They explore the implications of these changes for businesses and consumers, including the rising fees associated with banking and the convenience of new payment solutions. The conversation also highlights innovative technologies that can streamline payment processes for service businesses, emphasizing the importance of adapting to the changing financial landscape.
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90°F Water and The Dark Side of Pool Maintenance
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Here's what we do differently when the pool water temp is up!!!Â
In this episode of the Talking Pools podcast, Rudy Stankowitz delves into a chilling true crime story intertwined with the pool industry from his book, Blades of Glass available on Amazon.com. The conversation shifts to industry insights, discussing recent trends and challenges in pool maintenance, particularly focusing on the chemistry of hot water and the complexities of testing in elevated temperatures. The episode concludes with practical advice for pool professionals on managing ch...
Photos, Follow-Ups, and Firing Clients
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In this episode, the hosts, Wayne and Steve, discuss the importance of mentorship in the pool industry, the diverse roles professionals can take on, and the significance of communication and relationships with clients. They explore the complexities of pool chemistry, the necessity of understanding equipment, and the challenges of managing customer expectations. The conversation also touches on the importance of networking and professional growth, culminating in a discussion about when to let go of clients who no longer fit the business model.
takeaways
What Happens When Gen Z Joins the Pool Industry?
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In this conversation, Andrew shares his journey into the pool industry, discussing his initial entry, training experiences, and the transition from service work to construction. He highlights the unique aspects of his role as a startup technician, the importance of customer interactions, and his career aspirations. The dialogue also touches on mentorship and the value of community in the industry.
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The Water Turned Green and So Did Our Hearts
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In this episode, Andrea and Paulette discuss their week in pool maintenance, including challenges faced due to rain and the importance of maintaining chlorine levels. They announce a design contest for pool-themed apparel and share tragic news about pool safety incidents. The conversation shifts to the skilled trades, highlighting the demand for pool builders and other careers in the industry. They also delve into unique pool designs and the technical challenges of maintaining them, concluding with a discussion on ongoing maintenance issues and a call for listener engagement.
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Work Life Balance & Background Checks
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You’re Not Fighting Mustard Algae—You’re Feeding It
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It’s Floc It Friday, and Rudy’s bringing the fire—along with borates, polyquats, and the brutal truth about mustard algae. In what might be our most packed episode to date, Rudy Stankowitz dives headfirst into the evolving mustard algae crisis in 2025—why your go-to treatment (sodium bromide) is now banned, how diatoms are getting smarter, and what you need to do to fight back.
🧪 MUSTARD ALGAE: THE TRUTH REVEALED
Rudy breaks down the biology of mustard algae (a.k.a. diatoms), the real reasons it's thriving, a...
🛑 Ransomware Reloaded: The Cyber Threat That Won’t Cover Itself (Merlin Attack Pt. 2)
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In this episode of the Talking Pools podcast, hosts Steve and Wayne discuss various topics related to pool maintenance, including the importance of reliable staffing, the impact of ransomware attacks on the industry, and the significance of effective water testing. They emphasize the need for strong cybersecurity measures, especially in light of recent attacks, and the importance of clear communication with clients regarding pool maintenance expectations. The conversation also touches on the challenges posed by weather conditions and the necessity of understanding pool chemistry for effective maintenance.
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I Hate DE Filters! Here's why
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In this episode, Sarah the Pool Girl dives deep into the world of pool filtration, exploring the pros and cons of cartridge, DE (Diatomaceous Earth), and sand filters. With her signature blend of humor and hands-on know-how, Sarah breaks down the maintenance requirements, efficiency levels, and practical realities of each filter type. She clears up common misconceptions and shares real-world tips that come straight from the deck—not the manual. Along the way, she reflects on the value of community engagement and how personal experience can shape smarter pool care de...
Poolside Chats: Weekend Misadventures
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In this lively conversation, Andrea and Paulette share their weekend experiences, focusing on pool maintenance challenges, unexpected wildlife encounters, and community events. They discuss the joys and frustrations of managing pools, including a memorable 4th of July pool adventure and a design contest announcement. The conversation wraps up with thoughts on pool safety and future plans.
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The Evolution of Skimmer Box Design
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In this episode of the Talking Pools podcast, the hosts discuss various aspects of fiberglass pools and skimmer boxes, including their design, safety features, and the challenges of installation and repair. They share insights on the importance of learning in the pool industry and emphasize the need for proper techniques and materials in pool maintenance. The conversation also touches on the significance of teamwork and communication in the trade.
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The Quiet Bromide Ban, the Sudden Pentair Cap, and the PIC Bond That Could Save You
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Pentair just dropped a bombshell on pool pros: effective immediately through August 31, 2025, they’re capping purchase orders at 30% above your July–August 2024 levels. Anything above that? Denied.
Pentair caps your buying power. The EPA quietly bans sodium bromide. And bonding? Finally, some clarity.
In this episode, we tackle three major updates shaking the pool industry. First, Pentair announces a sudden cap on purchase orders—effective immediately, you're limited to just 30% above your July–August 2024 volume. We unpack why tariffs are likely behind it and what thi...
Navigating Client Communication in the Pool Industry
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In this episode of the Talking Pools podcast, hosts Steve and his co-host discuss their personal lives, including upcoming vacations and wedding plans. They delve into the challenges of client communication in the service industry, emphasizing the importance of setting expectations and maintaining open lines of communication. The conversation also touches on product development in the pool industry, highlighting the need for common sense and practical input from users. The episode concludes with insights on managing client relationships and the significance of being proactive in service delivery.
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