Pool Nation Podcast

Pool Nation
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Welcome to Pool Nation. The Podcast where it’s all Pool Talk. We are talking about becoming a nation of pool pros. We talk about the latest products, trends and training in the Swimming Pool Industry. We interview leaders, and educators in the swimming pool industry.

  1. 21 HR AGO

    E-294 Pool Nation Podcast - From Rookie Mistakes to Mastery: Why Reps, Training & Real Experience Build Elite Pool Pros

    In episode # 294 of the Pool Nation Podcast, Edgar De Jesus sits down live at AquaStar with Bryan Chrissan and Michael Kraus to break down one of the most important topics in the pool industry today training, repetition, and real-world experience. From early career mistakes to high-level field knowledge, this episode dives into what it really takes to build confidence, skill, and success in the pool service industry. You’ll hear real stories from the field including costly mistakes, hard-earned lessons, and the power of mentorship along with a deep conversation on how education in the industry has evolved from basic classroom learning to hands-on, immersive training. Whether you’re a new pool tech or a seasoned pro, this episode will challenge how you think about learning, growth, and what it takes to become elite in this industry. 💡 If you’re not getting reps… you’re not getting better. ⏱️ Chapter Timestamps 00:00 – Podcast intro & Visionary Partners 01:00 – Meet Bryan & Michael + setting the stage 03:00 – Industry changes: Then vs. now in training 07:30 – Real-world mistakes (and what they teach you) 12:00 – Travel story + behind-the-scenes laughs 20:00 – Why networking is EVERYTHING in this industry 25:00 – Pool Nation Bootcamps & $10K Pool Pro Challenge 30:00 – The importance of reps in building confidence 36:00 – Rookie mistakes: filters, pumps, heaters & more 41:00 – Learning from failure vs. wasting time 45:00 – The power of mentorship & calling for help 50:00 – Evolution of pool industry education 56:00 – Why hands-on training beats classroom learning 01:05:00 – Creating a safe learning environment 01:10:00 – Real impact: changing lives through training 01:18:00 – Long-term thinking vs. short-term sales 01:25:00 – Relationships vs. transactions in business 01:30:00 – Final thoughts: learn, share, grow 01:40:00 – Outro + where to connect 🙌 Sponsor Acknowledgment (SEO-Friendly) A huge thank you to our Pool Nation Visionary Partners for supporting this podcast and the pool industry: The SPPA Blu-ray XL AquaStar Pool Products Natural Chemistry Raypak Heritage Pool Supply Hayward Pool Products Poolside Tech Pool Brain Nidec OnCore Filtration We appreciate everything you do to help move the industry forward.

    1hr 47min

  2. 23 MAR

    E-293 Pool Nation Podcast Pool Industry Innovation EXPOSED: New Chemistry Tech, AI Training & What Pool Pros Must Know in 2026 with Alicia and Michael G

    In episode #293 of the Pool Nation Podcast, we sit down with industry leaders Alicia Stephens and Michael G to break down what innovation really looks like in the pool industry—and why it matters more than ever for pool service pros, retailers, and business owners. From next-generation pool chemicals and faster-dissolving chlorine technology to AI-powered training platforms and the future of education, this conversation goes deep into how the industry is evolving—and how you can stay ahead of it. We’re not just talking about products—we’re talking about thinking differently, solving real problems, and building a better experience for your customers. You’ll hear how innovation is reshaping: Water chemistry and treatment strategies Pool service efficiency and troubleshooting Retail and customer experience Training, certifications, and workforce development Plus… we tease some major upcoming industry disruption you’re going to want to keep your eye on 👀 If you’re a pool pro, business owner, or industry leader looking to stay competitive, this is a must-listen episode. 🎯 WHAT YOU’LL LEARN Why “old school” pool chemistry thinking is holding you back How new chemical innovations are solving real field problems The role of AI in training the next generation of pool pros How to simplify your service process and reduce errors Why innovation isn’t just for big companies—it’s for YOU ⏱️ CHAPTER TIMESTAMPS 00:00 – Intro: Welcome to Pool Nation 02:00 – Meet Alicia Stephens & Michael G 04:30 – Industry energy, culture & community 06:30 – Why innovation matters right now in the pool industry 09:30 – Michael’s background (Harvard, toys, marketing & beyond) 12:00 – Storytelling, branding & marketing in pools 15:00 – What “real innovation” actually means 18:00 – How the pool industry is changing (environment, chemicals, behavior) 22:00 – New product innovation: faster dissolving trichlor & shock technology 26:00 – Solving real problems for pool pros in the field 30:00 – Retail vs service: simplifying chemistry for success 34:00 – Multi-benefit products (the “multivitamin” approach) 38:00 – Algaecide + phosphate innovation explained 42:00 – New category: pool fragrance (yes… seriously 👀) 47:00 – AI-powered training & BioGuard University breakdown 52:00 – The future of education in the pool industry 57:00 – Why embracing change is critical for growth 1:01:00 – Final thoughts: innovation, mindset & opportunity 1:04:00 – Teasing what’s coming next (major disruption ahead) 🙌 THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS A huge thank you to our amazing partners who continue to support the Pool Nation mission: SPPA Blu-Ray XL AquaStar Pool Products Natural Chemistry Raypak Heritage Pool Supply Hayward Pool Products Poolside Tech Pool Brain Nidec / U.S. Motors OnCore Filtration Your support helps us continue to bring education, innovation, and growth to pool pros everywhere. 🚀 FINAL  If you’re serious about growing your pool business, improving your chemistry knowledge, and staying ahead of industry trends—make sure you: ✔️ Subscribe to the Pool Nation Podcast ✔️ Share this episode with your team ✔️ Stay plugged into everything Pool Nation Because the future of this industry belongs to those who learn faster, adapt quicker, and think differently.

    1hr 48min

  3. 16 MAR

    E-292 Pool Nation Podcast Leadership, Industry Stories & Pool Pro Success | Pool Nation Podcast

    In Episode 292 of the Pool Nation Podcast “Best of Pool Nation” episode, host Edgar, along with co-hosts John “JJ Flawless” and Zac “The Pool Boy” Nicholas, bring together some of the most powerful conversations from the Pool Nation Podcast. This episode highlights the voices of pool professionals across the country who are helping shape the future of the swimming pool industry. From leadership lessons and business growth to real stories from the field, this episode captures the spirit of the Pool Nation community and the passion that drives pool pros forward. You'll hear insights from industry professionals including Jennifer Melee, Kristen Meow, Megan Hightower, Alicia Rowe, and more as they discuss their journeys in the pool industry, the challenges they face, and the lessons they've learned along the way. In this episode we discuss: • Leadership lessons from pool professionals • The importance of community and networking in the pool industry • Building strong teams and company culture • The challenges pool professionals face in the field • Growing and scaling a successful pool service business • The power of education and training in the industry Whether you're a new pool technician, seasoned pool professional, or pool business owner, this episode delivers inspiration, real-world insight, and valuable lessons from the Pool Nation community. The Pool Nation Podcast continues to bring together the leaders, innovators, and professionals who are helping raise the standard in the swimming pool industry.   ⏱️ Podcast Timestamps 0:00 – Welcome to the Pool Nation Podcast 1:00 – Special “Best Of” episode introduction 2:00 – Zac shares leadership lessons after visiting Gold Medal Pools 4:00 – Culture, leadership, and motivating your team 5:30 – Kristen’s trip to New Jersey and pool industry observations 7:00 – Megan discusses balancing family and running a pool business 8:20 – Jennifer shares hurricane recovery challenges in Florida 11:30 – The impact of major storms on pool businesses 13:00 – Alicia Rowe joins the conversation 14:30 – Work-life balance and running a pool company 17:00 – Pool Nation Awards and Pool Girl of the Year nominations 18:00 – Behind the scenes of Pool Nation events 20:00 – Industry partnerships and innovation 23:00 – Corey’s journey into the pool industry 26:00 – Mentorship and opportunity in aquatics 29:00 – Innovation in pool equipment and technology 34:00 – Aquastar pipeline filter discussion 38:00 – The future of innovation in the pool industry 41:00 – Hands-on training and educating pool pros 45:00 – Why education is critical for the next generation of pool professionals 49:00 – The power of networking and community 53:00 – How relationships shape careers in the pool industry 58:00 – Preparing for the Pool Nation Awards and conference 1:02:00 – The future of Pool Nation and the industry 🙌 Thank You to Our Sponsors A special thank you to the companies that support the Pool Nation Podcast and help us continue delivering education and innovation to the pool industry. • SPPA • Blu-Ray XL • AquaStar Pool Products • Natural Chemistry • Raypak • Heritage Pool Supply • Hayward Pool Products • Poolside Tech • Pool Brain • Nidec • Oncore Filtration Your continued support helps Pool Nation bring education, training, and industry conversations to pool professionals everywhere.

    1hr 43min

  4. 9 MAR

    E-291 Pool Nation Podcast Michelle Cooke & Heritage Pro Service: The Program Changing the Pool Industry

    In episode #291 of the Pool Nation Podcast, Edgar De Jesus, John “JJ Flawless,” and Zac “The Pool Boy” Nicholas sit down with Michelle Cook from Heritage Pool Supply to discuss the launch of the Heritage Pro Service Program and what it means for pool service professionals across the industry. Michelle Cooke Transcript The conversation dives deep into how Heritage is moving beyond the traditional distributor model to become a true partner in helping pool pros build stronger businesses. Michelle shares the vision behind the new Heritage Pro Service Program, including: • Loyalty rewards designed specifically for service professionals • Monthly rebate payouts through a debit card system • Transparent tracking of purchases and rewards • A brand-new education platform and certification opportunities • Vendor training sessions and Pro Talks every week • The launch of the Heritage Pro Service Academy in partnership with Pool Nation This episode also explores the larger mission of raising the standard in the pool industry by providing pool pros with better tools, better education, and stronger business support. If you're a pool service professional looking to grow your business, improve your technical knowledge, or connect with a stronger industry network, this episode is packed with valuable insights. ⏱️ Episode Timestamps 0:00 – Welcome to the Pool Nation Podcast 1:30 – Introducing Michelle Cook and the Heritage Pro Service Program 3:30 – Industry travel, events, and building the pool pro community 9:00 – Michelle’s background in the pool industry 16:00 – Heritage’s culture and commitment to pool pros 20:00 – What makes Heritage different from traditional distributors 26:00 – The origin of the Pool Tech program 32:00 – Why Heritage launched the new Pro Service Program 36:00 – Rewards, rebates, and supporting small service companies 42:00 – How the rebate and loyalty program works 47:00 – Tracking purchases and rewards through Heritage Pool Plus 52:00 – Monthly payouts and financial benefits for pool pros 56:00 – Education and training opportunities for service professionals 1:03:00 – Certification credits and professional development 1:08:00 – The Heritage Pro Service Academy with Pool Nation 1:18:00 – Why education is critical for the future of the industry 1:24:00 – Business growth, leadership, and scaling a pool company 1:35:00 – The vision for raising the professional standard in the pool industry 1:45:00 – Final thoughts and closing remarks 🤝 Special Thanks to Our Podcast Partners A huge thank you to our Pool Nation Visionary Partners for supporting the podcast and helping elevate the pool industry: SPPA Blu-Ray XL AquaStar Pool Products Natural Chemistry Raypak Heritage Pool Supply Hayward Pool Products Poolside Tech Pool Brain Nidec Oncore Filtration Your support helps us continue educating and empowering pool professionals everywhere.

    2h 9m

  5. 2 MAR

    E-290 Pool Nation Podcast Adam Beech with Pool Brain Scaling a Pool Service Business: Consistency Wins

    Episode 290 Pool Nation Podcast - Are you stuck at 200 pools and can’t break through to the next level? In this powerful episode of the Pool Nation Podcast, Edgar, John,  and Zac sit down with Adam Beech, founder of Pool Brain, to break down the real reason pool service companies struggle to scale. It’s not hustle. It’s not marketing. It’s not “better techs.” It’s consistency. Adam shares how he scaled his pool service company past 1,000 pools and why traditional checklists, rockstar technicians, and reactive management nearly kept him stuck. If you're a pool service business owner looking to grow from 100 to 500 pools (or beyond), this episode dives deep into: • Why hiring “better techs” doesn’t solve scale • The hidden cost of inconsistency • Checklists vs. true workflow systems • How green pools destroy profit margins • Why turnover crushes scaling companies • How automation and AI are changing pool service operations • Reducing chemical costs by up to 40% • Eliminating margin bleed • Building a business that runs without you This episode is packed with real-world operational insights for pool professionals, service companies, and owners who want to build structure instead of chaos. If you want predictable growth, better margins, and fewer fires to put out; this one is for you. ⏱️ EPISODE TIMESTAMPS 00:00 – Welcome to the Pool Nation Podcast 01:30 – Why most pool companies hit a growth wall 05:00 – The myth of the “rockstar technician” 12:00 – What inconsistency really looks like at scale 18:30 – Hustle vs. structure: why effort isn’t enough 22:00 – Why checklists fail in pool service 30:00 – What a true workflow system looks like 36:00 – PSI readings and preventing green pools 44:00 – Chemical automation & margin control 52:00 – AI tab dosing explained 1:05:00 – Eliminating training bottlenecks 1:15:00 – Inventory automation & Heritage integration 1:25:00 – The future of AI in pool service 1:40:00 – Remote monitoring, Water Guru & automation 1:55:00 – Final thoughts: Building scalable pool businesses 🙌 THANK YOU TO OUR VISIONARY PARTNERS We want to thank our Visionary Partners for supporting the Pool Nation Podcast: • SPPA • Blu-Ray XL • AquaStar Pool Products • Natural Chemistry • Raypak • Heritage Pool Supply • Hayward Pool Products • US Motors • Encore Filtration • Pool Brain Your support helps us continue building a Nation of Pool Pros. If this episode brings value to you, share it with another pool pro who’s ready to level up. We’re not just cleaning pools. We’re building better businesses. #PoolNation #PoolServiceBusiness #PoolPros #ScalingBusiness #PoolIndustry #Entrepreneurship #ServiceBusinessGrowth

    2h 3m

  6. 23 FEB

    E-289 Pool Nation Podcast - Pool Show Recap & Industry Rising Stars

    In Episode 289 of the Pool Nation Podcast, Edgar De Jesus, John “JJ Flawless,” and Zac “The Pool Boy” recap the energy and momentum from the Western Pool & Spa Show and the Southwest Pool & Spa Show, then dive into powerful conversations featuring some of the brightest rising stars and top sales professionals in the swimming pool industry. This episode highlights: The impact of industry trade shows on pool service businesses Leadership development and next-generation talent in aquatics The importance of customer relationships and pool education What separates top-performing sales reps in the pool industry The Pool Nation Awards 30 Under 40 nominees Sales Rep of the Year nominees and what drives their success You’ll hear stories of resilience, entrepreneurship, business growth, and the mindset it takes to build a sustainable and profitable pool service or pool building company. Whether you're a pool service professional, pool builder, sales rep, or industry supplier, this episode delivers insight, motivation, and practical takeaways to help you level up your business. If you're serious about growing your pool company, scaling operations, improving customer retention, and becoming a true Pool Pro — this episode is for you.   ⏱ Episode Timestamps 00:00 – Welcome to the Pool Nation Podcast 01:00 – Western & Southwest Pool & Spa Show Recap 03:00 – Zac’s Idaho adventure & team banter 09:00 – Introducing 30 Under 40 Male of the Year Nominees 13:00 – IPSA Education Fund & Investing in Industry Training 15:00 – James Broderick’s Journey: From Pandemic Startup to Growth Through Referrals 21:00 – Pool Education & “Pool School” for Homeowners 24:00 – Sales Rep of the Year Nominee Introduction 28:00 – Sales Rep Leadership, Market Growth & Industry Relationships 32:00 – Andrew’s Career: Distribution to Manufacturer Rep 40:00 – Daniel’s 30-Year Industry Journey: Retail, Service, Building & Manufacturing 48:00 – Relationship-Driven Sales & Building Market Trust 55:00 – Industry Growth, Mentorship & What’s Next for Pool Pros 🙌 Thank You to Our Visionary Partners & Sponsors We want to thank our incredible Visionary Partners for supporting the Pool Nation Podcast and the pool industry: SPPA BlueRay XL AquaStar Pool Products Natural Chemistry Raypak Heritage Pool Supply Hayward Pool Products PoolSide Tech Pool Brain Nidec / US Motors OnCore Filtration Your commitment to education, innovation, and supporting pool professionals nationwide makes this platform possible.

    1hr 47min

  7. 16 FEB

    E-288 Pool Nation Podcast - Pool Service Growth: Why Being Busy Is Killing Your Profit

    Episode 288 Pool Nation Podcast. Are you busy… or are you actually building a profitable pool service business? In this episode of the Pool Nation Podcast, Edgar, John, and Zac break down one of the biggest traps in the swimming pool industry: confusing being busy with being successful. As we head into peak pool season, many pool pros find themselves working longer hours, adding more pools, and filling every minute of the day — but still feeling overwhelmed, stressed, and underpaid. This episode dives deep into: • Why long hours don’t equal profitability • How busyness hides skill gaps and financial problems • The dangerous cycle of “organized chaos” in pool companies • Why scaling without readiness leads to burnout • How to transition from technician to operator • The role of planning, pricing, and financial clarity in sustainable growth If you’re a pool service business owner trying to grow, scale, or simply survive the busy season without burning out — this conversation is for you. Because readiness isn’t about knowing more. It’s about making better decisions before chaos hits. ⏱️ Episode Timestamps 00:00 – Welcome to the Pool Nation Podcast 01:00 – Why “Busy” Doesn’t Mean Profitable 05:30 – Western & Southwest Pool Shows + Boot Camp Updates 08:45 – The $10,000 Pool Pro Challenge & Raypak AVIA Giveaway 12:00 – The “Busy Trap” in the Pool Industry 15:00 – Hustle vs. Structure: Why Long Hours Aren’t the Answer 19:00 – How Busyness Masks Skill Gaps in Pool Service 22:00 – Stop Being a “Field Medic” – Fix Root Causes Instead 25:00 – The Illusion of Success in a Packed Schedule 28:00 – Why Adding More Pools Isn’t Always the Solution 31:00 – Warning Signs You’re Running in Organized Chaos 34:00 – Creating Space in the Day for Preventative Work 41:00 – Readiness vs. Reaction: Making Better Decisions 45:00 – Where Pool Businesses Get Stuck as They Grow 50:00 – Financial Readiness as a Competitive Advantage 56:00 – Final Thoughts: Work Smarter, Not Just Harder 🙌 Special Thanks to Our Visionary Partners A huge thank you to our Visionary Partners for supporting the Pool Nation Podcast and helping us elevate the pool industry: SPPA Blu-Ray XL AquaStar Pool Products Natural Chemistry Raypak Heritage Pool Supply Hayward Pool Products PoolSide Tech Pool Brain Nidec OnCore Filtration We appreciate your commitment to helping pool pros grow stronger businesses.

    1hr 2min

  8. 9 FEB

    E-287 Pool Nation Podcast - Why Pool Pros Still Struggle After Training | Information vs Real-World Pool Education (Part 2)

    In Episode 287 of Pool Nation Podcast is Part 2 of this powerful conversation, Edgar , John “JJ Flawless,” and Zac “The Pool Boy” Nicholas break down the real difference between information and actual training—and why most pool professionals aren’t truly prepared when they walk into a backyard. This episode dives deep into training readiness, skill gaps, and why mistakes keep happening at customer pools instead of in controlled learning environments. If you’ve ever felt confident in a class but froze when things went sideways in the field, this episode explains exactly why—and how to fix it. You’ll hear real-world stories from the field, honest conversations about YouTube education, hands-on training, repetition, and why confidence only comes from practice, not just knowledge. The team also explains how seasonality, pressure, and poor training structures hold pool businesses back—and what owners must do differently moving forward. This episode is a must-listen for: Pool service techs Repair technicians Business owners Managers training teams Anyone serious about growing skills, confidence, and profitability in the pool industry If you want to stop learning the hard way in customers’ backyards and start building real readiness, this episode is for you. ⏱️ Episode Timestamps 00:00 – Welcome to the Pool Nation Podcast 01:00 – Why Part 2 matters: Training vs information 03:00 – YouTube education: Helpful or harmful? 07:00 – Why information feels like progress (but isn’t) 10:00 – The real danger of learning under pressure 15:00 – Why mistakes show up at customer pools first 19:00 – Repetition, muscle memory, and real confidence 23:00 – Hands-on training vs classroom learning 28:00 – Why “figuring it out in the field” became normalized 33:00 – Seasonality and why training gets pushed aside 37:00 – How skill gaps show up operationally, emotionally, and financially 42:00 – Why owners stop training themselves 47:00 – What effective training actually looks like 52:00 – How to choose the right education for your team 58:00 – Final thoughts: Raising the standard in pool education 🤝 Thank You to Our Visionary Partners A huge thank you to our Pool Nation Visionary Partners who make this podcast possible: The SPPA BlueRay XL AquaStar Pool Products Natural Chemistry Raypak Heritage Pool Supply Hayward Pool Products PoolSide Tech Pool Brain Nidec / U.S. Motors Encore Filtration – Welcome to the Pool Nation family Your continued support helps elevate education, professionalism, and profitability across the pool industry.

    1hr 20min
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About

Welcome to Pool Nation. The Podcast where it’s all Pool Talk. We are talking about becoming a nation of pool pros. We talk about the latest products, trends and training in the Swimming Pool Industry. We interview leaders, and educators in the swimming pool industry.

Information

  • Creator
    Pool Nation
  • Years Active
    2020 - 2026
  • Episodes
    293
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2020 All rights reserved.
  • Show Website
    Pool Nation Podcast

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