Talking Pools Podcast

Rudy Stankowitz

If you’ve ever stared at a test kit like it personally insulted your family… welcome home. Talking Pools Podcast is the pool industry’s “pull up a chair” show—part shop talk, part field manual, part therapy session—built for people who actually live on pool decks: commercial operators, service techs, builders, facility managers, and anyone responsible for water that can’t afford to go sideways. The network was created to level up the pool industry with real-world conversations on water chemistry, filtration, troubleshooting, construction, safety, and the business side of keeping pools open and budgets intact.  Here’s the hook: it’s not theory-first. It’s experience-first—a roster of seasoned pros (with 250+ years of combined “been there, fixed that” wisdom) turning complicated problems into practical moves you can use the same day.  And it’s not one voice, one vibe, one corner of the industry: it’s a network of shows designed to reflect how diverse this work really is—different regions, different specialties, different personalities.  Also worth saying out loud: women aren’t “special guests” here—they’re on the mic as hosts, from the beginning, with an intentionally balanced roster.  That matters, because the best ideas in this industry don’t come from one lane—they come from the whole road. If you want a podcast that can make you laugh and make you better at what you do—without pretending the job is easier than it is—Talking Pools is the one you queue up before the first stop, and keep on when the day starts getting weird. 

  1. 3 HR AGO

    EPA Fines and Why Your Algaecide Didn't Work - Rudy

    Send us Fan Mail On this episode of the Talking Pools Podcast, Rudy dives headfirst into one of the most controversial chemistry and regulatory topics currently shaking the pool industry: sodium bromide, EPA labeling law, and the reality of enforcement under FIFRA regulations. This episode is not speculation, fearmongering, or internet rumor. It is a detailed breakdown of what the EPA label changes actually mean, how pesticide law works in the real world, the difference between civil and criminal enforcement, and why documentation—not chemistry testing—is often what creates liability exposure for pool professionals. But the conversation doesn’t stop there. Rudy takes listeners deep into the science of algae remediation, cyanobacteria biofilms, ammonium sulfate systems, polyquat chemistry, copper ionization, oxidizer sequencing, and why “black algae” was never one singular organism to begin with. From mustard algae treatments and chloramine chemistry to Nostoc, Oscillatoria, Lingbya, EPS biofilm structures, cyanotoxins, circulation dead spots, and why most pool pros have unknowingly been fighting infrastructure rather than algae itself, this episode tears apart decades of pool industry myths and marketing shortcuts. The show also includes major industry news updates involving Leslie’s stock movement, Swimpley rental regulation battles in Minnesota, Department of Energy pool pump compliance relief secured by the Pool & Hot Tub Alliance, Mentor of the Year sponsorship announcements, and giveaway winners from the Talking Pools community.  Show Notes  Rudy clarifies the episode is a factual discussion about EPA labeling law and not legal advice  Breakdown of the EPA sodium bromide outdoor pool labeling restriction  Explanation of how FIFRA pesticide law makes label instructions legally enforceable  Discussion about bromate formation concerns and the EPA’s regulatory reasoning  Why the sodium bromide “ban” is technically a labeling restriction rather than a criminal prohibition  The difference between low enforcement probability and actual legality  How modern enforcement actions often originate from invoices, logs, social media posts, videos, and digital records rather than physical pool testing  The major differences between residential pool enforcement risk and commercial aquatic facility exposure  Civil penalties versus criminal enforcement under FIFRA regulations  Real-world liability concerns tied to knowingly using products off-label  How lawsuits and insurance investigations can expose undocumented chemical practices  Leslie’s stock movement and what it may indicate about broader consumer confidence in the pool industry  2026 Talking Pools Podcast Mentor of the Year Award updates and sponsor announcements  Jack’s Magic and Revved Up Apparel giveaway winners announced  Minnesota regulators continuing efforts to classify Swimpley rental pools as public/commercial pools  Potential nationwide implications of app-based pool rental regulation  PHTA secures Department of Energy compliance relief regarding new pool pump motor regulations  Discussion surrounding supply chain concerns and delayed enforcement deadlines through 2029  Deep dive into sodium bromide chemistry and bromine sanitizer formation  How ammonium sulfate products like Yellow Out actually function chemically  Why ammonium sulfate systems create aggressive oxidation environments and massive chlorine demand  Chloramine formation explained in the context of algae eradication chemistry  Why mustard algae often responds dramatically to oxidizer amplification treatments  Traditional quats versus Polyquat 60 chemistry explained  Why cheap quaternary algaecides foam aggressively in swimming pools  The structural advantages of Polyquat 60’s polymeric chemistry  Why most algaecides work better preventatively than reactively  Rudy explains why cyanobacteria biofilms behave more like fortified microbial cities than traditional algae  Breakdown of Nostoc, Oscillatoria, Lingbya, Microcystis, and other cyanobacteria genera commonly found in pools  Why “black algae” is not one single organism but a broad visual category  EPS slime layers and how they protect cyanobacteria colonies from oxidizers  Why brushing and physical disruption are essential for effective remediation  How pitted plaster creates ideal environments for recolonization  Discussion on hydraulic dead spots and their role in recurring infestations  Copper-based systems explained, including staining risks and chemistry management requirements  Why circulation correction is often just as important as chemistry adjustments  The overlooked topic of cyanotoxins and microcystin-producing cyanobacteria in aquatic environments  Why algae remediation sometimes requires filtration optimization, dilution, and water replacement after cellular collapse  Rudy argues that no algaecide replaces the fundamentals of brushing, circulation, filtration, sanitizer maintenance, and proper FC/CYA management  Why the future of pool chemistry will move toward species-aware remediation strategies instead of generic algae categories  The difference between chemistry-based pool care and marketing-based pool care Support the show Thank you so much for listening! You can find us on social media: FacebookInstagramTik TokEmail us: talkingpools@gmail.com

    36 min
  2. 1 DAY AGO

    Here's What Every Pool Service Company is MISSING - Steve

    Send us Fan Mail On this episode of the Talking Pools Podcast, Steve dives into the realities of commercial pool liability, leak detection, client communication, and the hidden responsibilities that separate true professionals from “just the pool guy.” The episode opens with Steve discussing the frustration surrounding the 2026 FIFA World Cup ticket prices before shifting into another edition of the Insurance Interlude with Pat Grignon of the California Pool Association. Together, they unpack a real-world commercial pool situation involving missing handrails, code violations, liability exposure, and the importance of documenting hazards before they become lawsuits. Steve also delivers a detailed masterclass on swimming pool leak detection—from the bucket test and common skimmer throat leaks to light conduit failures, dye testing, and why every pool company should build relationships with specialized leak detection professionals. The conversation expands into business growth, professionalism, continuing education through CPO certification, building vendor partnerships, and the importance of commanding confidence when speaking with clients. Whether you’re a new pool tech or a seasoned operator, this episode is packed with field-tested advice, operational insight, and hard-earned lessons from the trenches of the pool industry.  Show Notes  Steve discusses taking his first real day off in weeks after nonstop CPO classes, commercial pool work, and field service calls  Frustration over 2026 FIFA World Cup ticket pricing and how rising costs are pushing longtime fans away from attending matches  Insurance Interlude with Pat Grignon of the California Pool Association  Commercial pool liability discussion involving missing handrails, code violations, depth markers, and no-diving signage  Why service companies have a legal duty to identify and document hazards at commercial pools  The importance of written communication, email documentation, and certified letters when addressing dangerous pool conditions  Discussion on foreseeability, negligence, proximate cause, and how lawsuits target everyone connected to a commercial pool incident  Why certain violations should potentially justify closing a commercial pool until repairs are completed  Overlooked commercial pool code requirements including transition lines, deck depth markers, and step visibility indicators  How courts may determine liability between service companies and construction contractors  Steve’s philosophy on protecting clients while simultaneously protecting your company from exposure  A full breakdown of swimming pool leak detection basics for newer pool professionals  How to perform the bucket test to confirm water loss  Common leak locations including skimmer throats, light conduits, spa jets, and cracked tile lines  Why Steve recommends using marine epoxy products like Splash Zone for underwater repairs  The value of partnering with dedicated leak detection specialists rather than trying to handle every service internally  Business advice on building strategic partnerships with plaster companies, leak detection companies, and specialty contractors  Discussion about markup strategy and creating referral partnerships that benefit both companies  Why pool professionals should avoid sending outside contractors who may try to steal recurring service accounts  Steve explains why honesty and transparency with customers build long-term trust  The importance of education and CPO certification for newer pool professionals entering the industry  How knowledgeable communication builds authority and helps clients trust your expertise  Real-world examples of identifying hidden hazards clients never noticed themselves  Pool Corp’s giveaway promotion for the Aper Scuba P1 robotic vacuum  Discussion about distributor pricing, OEM parts inflation, and why pool pros are increasingly turning to aftermarket options  Teaser for an upcoming episode discussing commercial bidding strategies, vacuum systems, and how Steve slowly closed a six-month commercial contract negotiation Support the show Thank you so much for listening! You can find us on social media: FacebookInstagramTik TokEmail us: talkingpools@gmail.com

    47 min
  3. Pool Inspections Exposed - Dennis Boyd with Natalie Hood

    2 DAYS AGO

    Pool Inspections Exposed - Dennis Boyd with Natalie Hood

    Send us Fan Mail Pool Inspections, Liability, Codes & the Dangerous Assumptions That Cost Thousands. Part 2 of this 2 part episode. With Host Natalie Hood of The Grit Game and Special Guest Dennis Boyd of Watershape University In the conclusion of this powerful two-part episode of Myth Busting Wednesdays, Natalie Hood sits down with Dennis Boyd for a brutally honest conversation about the realities of swimming pool inspections, code compliance, safety standards, liability, and the myths that continue to plague the pool industry.  This episode digs deep into one of the biggest misconceptions in the swimming pool industry: just because a pool is open, built, or passed inspection once does not mean it is safe, compliant, or properly constructed today. Dennis explains how pool inspectors must constantly continue learning, especially in areas like electrical safety, bonding, lighting systems, hydraulics, structural integrity, and evolving code requirements.  Natalie and Dennis break down the dangerous assumption that “if the contractor built it, it must be compliant,” sharing real-world examples of improperly built pools, exposed rebar hidden beneath unfinished shotcrete, disconnected bonding systems, improperly grounded electrical components, and construction shortcuts that could have led to catastrophic failures or lawsuits.  The conversation also explores the confusion surrounding municipal inspections and building codes. Dennis explains how different jurisdictions may adopt completely different combinations of the International Building Code (IBC), International Swimming Pool & Spa Code (ISPSC), and local amendments, creating inconsistencies throughout the country. The result? Pools can sometimes receive occupancy approval while still containing serious safety hazards.  Natalie and Dennis also tackle:  Why home inspectors often lack meaningful aquatic training  The critical difference between general liability insurance and Errors & Omissions (E&O) coverage for pool inspectors  Why written inspection reports become legal disclosure documents during real estate transactions  The growing need for specialized aquatic inspection professionals  Why pool builders, service technicians, and inspectors often operate with completely different knowledge bases  The shocking pool code requirements most professionals have never heard of — including residential safety rope requirements under ISPSC Chapter 8. Dennis also shares how Watershape University training has helped professionals better understand slides, diving envelopes, gate safety, coefficient of friction standards, and the hidden hazards that most homeowners — and many contractors — completely overlook.  Natalie closes the episode with a powerful reminder: Pools don’t fail because of bad luck. They fail because of bad assumptions.This is an episode every pool builder, service professional, inspector, real estate agent, and pool owner needs to hear. Topics Covered  Pool inspection myths  Electrical and bonding safety  Pool code compliance  Residential pool inspections  Watershape University training  Pool builder liability  E&O insurance for inspectors  ISPSC and IBC code discussions  Real estate disclosure and pool inspections  Pool construction defects  Safety standards for residential pools  Why continuing education matters in aquatics Listen & Follow 🎧 Talking Pools Podcast #SwimmingPool #PoolInspection #PoolService #PoolBuilder #WatershapeUniversity #TalkingPoolsPodcast #PoolSafety #PoolIndustry Support the show Thank you so much for listening! You can find us on social media: FacebookInstagramTik TokEmail us: talkingpools@gmail.com

    28 min
  4. 3 DAYS AGO

    Andrea Unedited Episode on Swimming Pool Safety

    Send us Fan Mail On this episode of the Talking Pools Podcast, Andrea takes a deep dive into one of the most important — and often overlooked — topics in the swimming pool industry: safety.  With summer approaching and pool usage increasing across the country, Andrea discusses the real-world responsibility pool professionals carry when it comes to preventing drownings, suction entrapment incidents, and avoidable tragedies. The episode opens with two heartbreaking Florida drowning stories involving young children — one at a pool party and another at an Airbnb rental property — sparking a broader conversation about accountability, supervision, and the role safety barriers play in aquatic environments.  Andrea breaks down the five types of suction entrapment hazards including:  Hair entrapment  Limb entrapment  Body entrapment  Mechanical entrapment  Evisceration/disembowelment She explains how these incidents occur, why they remain a serious risk even in modern pools, and why educating homeowners and clients about suction safety is critical. The discussion also explores how damaged or missing drain covers, improper flow rates, aging plastics, and poor maintenance practices can create dangerous conditions.  The episode includes a detailed explanation of the Virginia Graeme Baker Pool & Spa Safety Act (VGBA), including:  Why VGBA compliance is about the entire hydraulic system — not just drain covers  The role of dual drains and unblockable drains  Safety Vacuum Release Systems (SVRS)  Maximum flow ratings  Drain cover life expectancy  Pump sizing considerations  Commercial inspection requirements Andrea also shares the tragic stories behind the legislation, including the deaths of Virginia Graeme Baker and Abigail Taylor, and how those incidents changed federal pool safety standards forever.  Other topics include:  Why drowning deaths are increasing in the United States  The importance of swimming lessons and active supervision  Water watcher programs  Airbnb and short-term rental pool safety concerns  Why cloudy water should never be ignored  Why pool pros should document damaged safety equipment immediately  Common dangerous pool games and behaviors that should be discouraged  Long hair safety around suction outlets  Why “touch the drain” games are a terrible idea  The importance of keeping gates and barriers closed Andrea also provides listeners with an extensive list of water safety organizations and educational resources including: Pool SafelyNational Drowning Prevention AllianceAbby's HopePHTA Step Into SwimEvery Child A SwimmerCDC Healthy SwimmingThis episode serves as both a refresher and a reminder that pool safety is not a checklist — it’s a culture. Whether you service residential pools, commercial facilities, vacation rentals, or aquatic centers, this conversation reinforces why education, awareness, and proactive prevention matter. Follow the Talking Pools Podcast on all major streaming platforms and join the conversation on social media. Support the show Thank you so much for listening! You can find us on social media: FacebookInstagramTik TokEmail us: talkingpools@gmail.com

    46 min
  5. Pool Industry Time-Saving Hacks - Mondays, Australia, News Zealand

    4 DAYS AGO

    Pool Industry Time-Saving Hacks - Mondays, Australia, News Zealand

    Send us Fan Mail On this episode of the Talking Pools Podcast, Lee Salisbury, Shane from Auckland, and Nick from Brisbane dive headfirst into one of the biggest challenges facing pool professionals everywhere: time management.  From subscription fatigue to overloaded schedules, the crew discusses how pool service companies can streamline operations, eliminate wasted effort, and create smarter workflows without adding more stress—or more monthly software fees.  Nick shares how he has transformed Buffer Zone into a centralized operational hub for his business, using it for everything from technician scheduling and supplier management to equipment manuals, staff notes, training resources, and client communication. The conversation explores how keeping everything inside one ecosystem reduces missed jobs, forgotten tasks, duplicated subscriptions, and operational chaos.  The episode also explores creative “workarounds” within software systems—showing listeners how to use scheduling tools for personal appointments, admin blocks, vehicle servicing reminders, supplier pickups, and inventory management. Shane discusses his previous use of the Timely calendar system and how similar functionality can be recreated directly inside Buffer Zone to simplify operations and reduce reliance on external apps.  Lee takes the conversation further into productivity systems, sharing how tools like Google Workspace, Google Calendar, Google Tasks, Google Forms, Google Drive, and automation integrations can dramatically improve efficiency for pool service companies. The discussion highlights real-world examples of live technician reporting, automated spreadsheets, winter repair prospecting, quote generation, inventory forecasting, and field-to-office communication systems that save hours every week.  The team also discusses password management, shared staff access, cloud-based documentation, technician accountability, and how centralizing information can protect businesses when employees leave or systems fail.  Most importantly, this episode focuses on the philosophy of continuous improvement—making small operational changes that create massive long-term gains. Whether you’re a solo operator or managing multiple technicians, the crew emphasizes that investing time into better systems today can save enormous amounts of time, stress, and money tomorrow.  Support the show Thank you so much for listening! You can find us on social media: FacebookInstagramTik TokEmail us: talkingpools@gmail.com

    40 min
  6. The Sodium Bromide Ban - Rudy talks with Scott Hamilton, CEO, United Chemical

    15 MAY

    The Sodium Bromide Ban - Rudy talks with Scott Hamilton, CEO, United Chemical

    Send us Fan Mail This episode features Scott Hamilton, CEO of United Chemical, discussing the EPA's recent restrictions on sodium bromide, its implications for pool professionals, and the science behind bromate formation and safety. Gain insights into regulatory processes, chemical safety, and effective pool management strategies. keywords sodium bromide, EPA regulations, bromate, pool chemistry, pool safety, algae control, chemical risk assessment, United Chemical, Yellow Treat, bromine pools key topics EPA's restrictions on sodium bromideBromate formation and health risksScience and risk assessment of pool chemicalsguest name Scott Hamilton Sound Bites "Don't let your mentor go, that's mentoreward.com.""Bromamines are effective and don't have a nasty smell.""Pool pros should voice their concerns to regulators."Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the EPA's Controversy on Sodium Bromide 03:52 The History and Impact of Bromate Regulations 06:53 Understanding Bromate Formation in Pools 09:30 The Chemistry of Bromine and Chlorine in Pools 12:18 The Misconceptions of Bromine Pools 15:16 Toxicology of Bromate and Cancer Risks 18:12 Bromate in Food Products and Regulatory Delays 22:25 Understanding EPA's Role and Challenges 25:10 The Impact of Lobbying on Chemical Regulations 29:45 Efficacy of Sodium Bromide in Algae Control 30:50 Trends in Mustard Algae Growth 34:22 Research Findings on Bromate Formation 42:48 Engaging with Regulatory Bodies 45:40 Legacy and Safety of Sodium Bromide Resources United ChemicalYellow TreatEPA Regulations on Bromide Products (2005)Bromate Risk Assessment Study AquaStar Pool ProductsThe Global Leader in Safety, Dependability, & Innovation in Pool Technology.BLUERAY XLThe real mineral purifier! Reduce your pool maintenance costs & efforts by 50%CPO Certification ClassesAttend your CPO class with Rudy Stankowitz!Jack's MagicIf you know Jack's you'd have no stains!Service Industry NewsDisclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the show Thank you so much for listening! You can find us on social media: FacebookInstagramTik TokEmail us: talkingpools@gmail.com

    52 min

About

If you’ve ever stared at a test kit like it personally insulted your family… welcome home. Talking Pools Podcast is the pool industry’s “pull up a chair” show—part shop talk, part field manual, part therapy session—built for people who actually live on pool decks: commercial operators, service techs, builders, facility managers, and anyone responsible for water that can’t afford to go sideways. The network was created to level up the pool industry with real-world conversations on water chemistry, filtration, troubleshooting, construction, safety, and the business side of keeping pools open and budgets intact.  Here’s the hook: it’s not theory-first. It’s experience-first—a roster of seasoned pros (with 250+ years of combined “been there, fixed that” wisdom) turning complicated problems into practical moves you can use the same day.  And it’s not one voice, one vibe, one corner of the industry: it’s a network of shows designed to reflect how diverse this work really is—different regions, different specialties, different personalities.  Also worth saying out loud: women aren’t “special guests” here—they’re on the mic as hosts, from the beginning, with an intentionally balanced roster.  That matters, because the best ideas in this industry don’t come from one lane—they come from the whole road. If you want a podcast that can make you laugh and make you better at what you do—without pretending the job is easier than it is—Talking Pools is the one you queue up before the first stop, and keep on when the day starts getting weird. 

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