Text us a pool question!In this episode of the Talking Pools podcast, Rudy Stankowitz addresses the pressing issues within the pool industry, including illegal practices and the importance of understanding key business metrics. He emphasizes the need for customer retention, satisfaction, and effective technician training. The discussion also covers profitability, sustainability, employee retention, and competitive intelligence, urging pool service professionals to track essential metrics to drive business success.Key TakeawaysThe pool industry faces significant challenges with illegal practices.Understanding customer retention and churn is crucial for business health.Customer satisfaction metrics like NPS can guide service improvements.Training and certifications are essential for technician competency.Profitability should be measured per job type, not just overall revenue.Sustainability is becoming a key factor in customer decisions.Employee turnover impacts profitability and service quality.Competitive intelligence helps businesses understand their market position.Tracking metrics is essential for informed decision-making.Building a dashboard of key metrics can drive business success.Sound Bites"Training is retention.""Don't buy based on hype.""Track the stuff that matters."ChaptersFrustrated Pool ProTrade Mag RoundupPHTA Day on the HillNPC New Director of EducationonBalance: The Truth About Waterline DepositsKey Metrics the State of The Industry Reports Missed AquaStar Pool ProductsThe Global Leader in
Safety, Dependability, & Innovation
in Pool Technology.POOL MAGAZINE
Pool Magazine is leading up to the minute news source for Swimming Pool News and Pool Features. OuBLUERAY XLThe real mineral purifier!
Reduce your pool maintenance costs & efforts by 50%CPO Certification ClassesAttend your CPO class with Rudy Stankowitz!Online Pool ClassesThe difference between you and your competition is what you know!Jack's MagicIf you know Jack's you'd have no stains!RaypakRaypak, leading the evolution of environmental efficiency and sustainability in pool heaters.the 'How to Get Rid of Algae' handbookThe most comprehensive guide on algae prevention and remediation you will ever own. Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the showThank you so much for listening! You can find us on social media: Facebook Instagram Tik Tok Email us: talkingpools@gmail.com
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54:38
Mastering Chemical Management for Pool Pros
Text us a pool question!In this episode, Rudy Stankowitz and Steve discuss various challenges and innovations in the pool industry, focusing on chemical management, service agreements, and the importance of mentorship. They explore the significance of accurate chemical dosing, the role of insurance in risk management, and the latest advancements in water testing technology. The conversation also touches on personal projects and the importance of treating employees well in a growing business.takeawaysYou have to learn to manage the expectations with clients.Accurate chemical measurement is crucial for pool maintenance.Service agreements should clearly outline responsibilities.Insurance is essential for protecting pool service providers.Innovations in water testing technology can improve service quality.Mentorship plays a vital role in the pool industry.Communication with clients is key to managing expectations.Employees should be treated well to retain talent.Understanding chemical dosing can save money in the long run.Personal projects can enhance professional growth.Sound Bites"You need to communicate with the client.""You have to learn to manage the expectations.""How much bicarb, Jed? I don't know.""You have to be measuring out your chemicals.""You have to treat your employees well.""Mentorship is key in the pool industry."Chapters00:00Introduction to Pool Industry Challenges02:56Chemical Management and Measurement05:58The Importance of Accurate Chemical Dosing08:54Service Agreements and Client Expectations11:58Insurance and Risk Management in Pool Services14:55Innovations in Water Testing Technology17:57Mentorship in the Pool Industry21:13Personal Projects and Future Endeavors24:12Conclusion and Future Discussions California Pool AssociationPool Industry Trade OrganizationLaMotte CompanyLaMotte Company is a leading manufacturer of water quality testing products & pool test kitsCMAHCThe Council for the Model Aquatic Health Code promotes health & safety at public swimming poolsDisclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the showThank you so much for listening! You can find us on social media: Facebook Instagram Tik Tok Email us: talkingpools@gmail.com
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33:35
The Importance of Community in The Pool Business
Text us a pool question!In this episode, Lee and guest host Peter Legaz discuss significant changes in the pool industry, including leadership transitions within Spasa and the impact of these changes on the industry. They explore the importance of community engagement, the challenges of staff management, and personal experiences that shape their business insights. The conversation emphasizes the need for adaptability and the value of personal connections in business. The conversation delves into the pressing staffing challenges faced by the swimming pool and spa industry, emphasizing the need for effective training and development initiatives. The speakers discuss the importance of investing in staff to enhance their skills and empower them, ultimately leading to a more competent workforce. They highlight the significance of clear expectations in training and the value of allowing employees to learn from their experiences. The discussion concludes with a call to action for ongoing training opportunities to foster growth within the industry.takeawaysPeter Legaz has been in the pool industry for 30 years.Family personas in business can enhance customer connection.Leadership changes can bring fresh perspectives to an industry.The importance of unity in industry associations.Recognition of pool service technicians as a trade is a significant achievement.Making tough staffing decisions is essential for business health.Hiring slowly and firing quickly can prevent prolonged issues.Personal experiences can lead to valuable business insights.Building personal relationships with clients is crucial.Adaptability is key in navigating industry changes. Staffing issues have worsened since COVID-19, impacting business operations.An academy for training new talent in the industry is needed.Investing in staff training leads to better employee retention.Empowering employees enhances their sense of value and contribution.Training programs should be industry-specific to ensure relevance.Clear expectations are essential for effective training outcomes.Allowing employees to learn from mistakes fosters growth.Training can significantly enhance employee skills and confidence.Investing in staff is crucial for long-term business success.Ongoing training opportunities are vital for industry development.Sound Bites"Customers love that family persona.""It's great to see a woman at the helm.""Unity brings strength in our industry.""We need to make the hard decisions.""Hire slow and fire fast.""When one door closes, another opens.""Let them learn from their mistakes."Chapters00:00Introduction and Guest Introduction04:01Industry Changes and Leadership Transitions08:13The Impact of Leadership on Industry Growth11:55Navigating Staff Changes and Business Dynamics16:02Perso BufferZoneBufferZone has been created by a frustrated pool maintenance companyDisclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the showThank you so much for listening! You can find us on social media: Facebook Instagram Tik Tok Email us: talkingpools@gmail.com
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36:34
Biolab WILL NOT Reopen GA & Pool Industry Insights
Text us a pool question!In this episode of the Talking Pools podcast, Rudy discusses a significant industrial safety incident at the Biolab Chemical Plant in Conyers, Georgia, highlighting the implications for community health and the pool industry. He also provides a weekly roundup of developments in the pool and spa industry, including legislative concerns and new safety standards. The episode further delves into the state of the pool industry through various reports, analyzing insights and trends that affect pool service professionals. Rudy emphasizes the importance of understanding the current landscape and collecting personal data to navigate the challenges in the industry effectively.takeawaysThe Biolab fire in Conyers, Georgia, raised serious safety concerns.Residents reported health issues linked to chemical exposure.Federal authorities cited Biolab for multiple safety violations.The pool industry is facing new legislative challenges in Florida.Aqua Magazine provides real insights into the pool service experience.Burnout and hiring challenges are prevalent in the industry.Collecting personal data is crucial for understanding business health.Industry reports vary in their insights and relevance to different businesses.Community advocacy is essential for industrial accountability.Transparency and safety measures are increasingly demanded by residents.Sound Bites"Stay informed, stay safe!""What does this mean for the pool industry?""It's systematic and it's shared."Chapters00:00The Biolab Fire Incident03:01Impact on the Pool Industry06:37State of the Pool Industry Reports15:50Navigating Industry Insights Support the showThank you so much for listening! You can find us on social media: Facebook Instagram Tik Tok Email us: talkingpools@gmail.com
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30:40
The Science of Water Quality Management
Text us a pool question!In this episode of the Talking Pools podcast, hosts Steve and Rudy discuss various aspects of pool maintenance, including the challenges of maintaining pools on cruise ships, the importance of water quality management, and effective strategies for preventing and treating algae. They also delve into the role of phosphates in pool chemistry, the necessity of regular inspections, and the complexities of health department regulations. The conversation wraps up with insights on pricing and value in pool services, emphasizing the need for transparency and expertise in the industry.takeawaysCruise ships often raise chlorine levels to manage pool safety.Regular water flushing is essential for pool maintenance.Brushing is crucial for preventing algae growth.Phosphates can contribute to algae problems but can be managed.Health department regulations vary significantly by state.Regular inspections can prevent costly pool issues.Communication with clients about pool conditions is vital.Pricing in pool services can vary widely based on expertise.Understanding water chemistry is key to effective pool management.Preventative measures are more effective than reactive treatments.Sound Bites"The solution to pollution is dilution.""Brushing is the most important part of this.""It's not a problem until it's a problem."Chapters00:00Introduction and Guest Appearance01:45Cruise Ship Pool Maintenance Challenges07:34Algae Management and Prevention Strategies12:46Understanding Phosphates and Water Quality19:51Testing and Diagnosing Pool Issues25:03Best Practices for Pool Maintenance30:10Innovative Solutions in Pool Care31:29Phosphate Management in Pool Care32:49Understanding Customer Expectations and Pricing34:14news-ting-6832.mp3 Support the showThank you so much for listening! You can find us on social media: Facebook Instagram Tik Tok Email us: talkingpools@gmail.com
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 personal alchemist, whipping up potion-perfect water balance with a dash of science and a sprinkle of magic.The Maintenance Maverick: From tile tricks to algae assassins, he's got the lowdown on keeping your pool looking like a liquid emerald palace.The Customer Calmer: Smooths ruffled feathers faster than a pool noodle bouquet, turning hangry homeowners into poolside pals.But Talking Pools isn't just about technical wizardry. It's about camaraderie, the shared language of pool pros who've seen it all, from exploding filters to synchronized swimming squirrels (no, really, we had an episode!).Every week, you'll:Steal game-changing secrets: Learn pro-grade hacks to make you the "Pool Whisperer" in your marketLaugh until you spit out your piña colada: These guys are as witty as they are wise, turning pool problems into poolside punchlines.Get ahead of the curve: Stay on top of industry trends and tech before your competitors even smell the chlorine.Feel the love (and the sunshine): Remember why you got into this business in the first place – the joy of creating backyard oases where memories are made.So, ditch the Drano, grab your headphones, and dive into the Talking Pools Podcast. It's your weekly dose of poolside wisdom, laughter, and community. We'll see you on the flip side!P.S. Subscribe now and you might just win a case of pool party essentials (floaties not included, sorry squirrels).P.P.S. Tell your pool-loving friends – sharing knowledge is like sharing sunscreen, it protects everyone!
South Africa