Scaling UP! H2O

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The podcast where we scale up on knowledge so we don't scale up our systems. Find out why working in Industrial Water Treatment is the best job in the world. Hear industry experts share their knowledge and stories. Learn about technologies, methods, and career journeys. Join podcast host Trace Blackmore, former AWT President, LEED, and CWT every Friday for a new episode.

  1. Redefining HR: The Key to Talent & Culture in Water Treatment

    1D AGO

    Redefining HR: The Key to Talent & Culture in Water Treatment

    What if HR wasn’t the department you dreaded — but the partner that helped your team thrive?  In this episode of Scaling UP! H2O, host Trace Blackmore welcomes Tia Amundson, HR Director at HOH Water Technology, to explore how human resources can be a strategic driver of talent, culture, and profitability in the water treatment industry.  Redefining HR’s Role  Tia shares her journey into water treatment and how she built HOH’s HR department from the ground up. Instead of treating HR as a compliance function, she reframed it as a leadership partner—focused on employee connections, transparent communication, and culture building. From structured check-ins at 30, 60, and 90 days to coaching managers and bridging communication gaps, her approach ensures employees feel supported, heard, and connected.  Culture as Competitive Advantage  HOH’s success story demonstrates how culture directly shapes business outcomes. Tia explains how open-book management, employee engagement surveys, and intentional recognition programs have increased retention, profitability, and trust across the organization. By aligning HR strategies with EOS (Entrepreneurial Operating System), HOH has cultivated an environment where employees thrive and deliver exceptional service.  Talent, Retention, and the Future of HR  Finding and retaining the right people remains one of the industry’s biggest challenges. Tia outlines the importance of a clear employee value proposition, authentic recruiting practices, and a commitment to work-life balance. She also discusses how HR will evolve over the next decade, balancing automation with the irreplaceable human element of caring for people.  Dream Management and Employee Growth  As a Certified Dream Manager, Tia integrates personal growth with professional development. By helping employees pursue their own dreams, HOH has fostered deeper engagement, loyalty, and breakthroughs that extend far beyond the workplace.  Conclusion  For leaders in the water treatment industry, this episode challenges you to view HR not as a cost center, but as a powerful lever for long-term success. Strategic HR practices can reduce turnover, build culture, and give your organization a competitive edge.  Stay engaged, keep learning, and continue scaling up your knowledge!    Timestamps  02:28 - Trace Blackmore welcomes listeners, shares personal “sharpen the saw” growth theme  04:53 - Sharpen-the-saw story  08:10 - Water You Know with James McDonald  10:05 - Upcoming Events for Water Treatment Professionals   13:15 - Interview with a friend and Rising Tide Mastermind member Tia Amundson, HR Director, HOH Water Technology   13:30 - HR as employee connection + leadership alignment, not a “principal’s office”  16:32 - From hiring to long-term care  19:14 - Coaching managers  23:49 - Turnover → P&L  33:12 – Recruitment Realities   44:03 – Dream Manager Program  48:11 – Overcoming Skepticism   50:02 – The Future of HR  51:13 – Start/Stop for HR  52:50 – Foundational operating system (EOS) first    Quotes  “HR isn’t about punishment—it’s about building trust, culture, and strategic advantage.”  “Pour into your employees, and they will pour into their work. That discretionary effort is what differentiates great companies.”  “Open communication and transparency aren’t soft skills—they’re the foundation of an intentional culture.”  “We started this interview saying we’d shatter how people think about HR—and I think we’ve shattered about a dozen things already.”   “When you engage employees in their personal dreams, you directly impact workplace engagement.”    Connect with Tia Amundson Phone: +12247721377  Email: tamundson@hohwatertechnology.com   Website: www.hohwatertechnology.com   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tia-amundson-shrm-cp/     Guest Resources Mentioned   HOH Water Technology   EOS (Entrepreneurial Operating System)   Gallup Q12 Engagement Survey   The Dream Manager by Matthew Kelly  How to Be a Great Boss: Gino Wickman, René Boer  Traction by Gino Wickman  Three Signs of a Miserable Job by Patrick Lencioni   Wellbeing at Work: How to Build Resilient and Thriving Teams by Jim Clifton (Author) & Jim Harter   People: Dare to Build an Intentional Culture (The EOS Mastery Series) by Mark O'Donnell (Author), Kelly Knight (Author), CJ DuBe' (Author)   Beyond High Performance by Jason Jaggard    Scaling UP! H2O Resources Mentioned  AWT (Association of Water Technologies)  Industrial Water Week  Scaling UP! H2O's Industrial Water Week Resources Scaling UP! H2O Academy video courses Submit a Show Idea  The Rising Tide Mastermind   Water You Know with James McDonald  Question: What are some reasons for softener resin beads to crack?    2025 Events for Water Professionals  Check out our Scaling UP! H2O Events Calendar where we’ve listed every event Water Treaters should be aware of by clicking HERE.

    1h 7m
  2. Raising the Bar: Legionella Management & Industry Standards

    SEP 5

    Raising the Bar: Legionella Management & Industry Standards

    With those words, Jemma Tennant highlights one of the most profound differences between Legionella management in Europe and the United States. In this episode of Scaling UP! H2O, host Trace Blackmore welcomes Jemma Tennant, Chair of the Water Management Society (WMSoc), to explore how legislation, enforcement, and professional training shape the fight against Legionella.   Proactive Regulation and Duty of Care  The UK treats Legionella as a foreseeable and preventable risk. Jemma explains how laws like the Health and Safety at Work Act and COSHH Regulations require mandatory Legionella risk assessments, temperature monitoring, and written control schemes—even when no cases have occurred. This contrasts with the U.S., where ASHRAE 188 serves as guidance rather than enforceable law, often triggering enforcement only after outbreaks.  Jemma shares a case study where a housing association was fined £1.2 million despite no recorded illness, underscoring the UK’s proactive stance on protecting public health. Hospitals, Design, and Emerging Challenges  From hospital plumbing layouts to new “waterless” intensive care units, Jemma details how design choices can either mitigate or magnify waterborne risk. Scotland’s model of involving water safety groups at the design stage provides a proactive example for healthcare worldwide. She also outlines how climate change, net-zero initiatives, and rising ambient temperatures are complicating control strategies across Europe.  Raising Standards Through Collaboration  As Chair of WMSoc, Jemma is leading efforts to raise industry standards and reverse what she calls a “race to the bottom.” She describes partnerships with AWT in the U.S. and LMAG in Australia to share expertise across borders. The episode also explores her pursuit of the Certified Water Technologist (CWT) credential and her vision for adapting the certification for UK professionals.  Conclusion  This conversation is a call to action for water treatment professionals everywhere: regulations, standards, and collaboration matter. Whether in cooling towers, hospitals, or housing estates, Legionella management requires vigilance, shared knowledge, and a commitment to raising the bar. Listen to the full episode and discover how global collaboration can shape safer water management practices.  Stay engaged, keep learning, and continue scaling up your knowledge!    Timestamps 01:55 - Trace Blackmore introduces the final installment of Legionella Awareness Month 2025  05:30 - Water You Know with James McDonald   07:30 - Upcoming Events for Water Treatment Professionals     14:50 - Interview with Jemma Tennant, SMS Environmental, Chair of the Water Management Society (WMSoc)  15:24 - Jemma’s background: growing up in the U.S. and UK, science upbringing, rotifers, and wastewater treatment career.  32:25 - The Water Management Society: structure, training, collaboration with AWT and LMAG  43:00 - Raising industry standards: combating the “race to the bottom” in UK water treatment.    Quotes “In the UK, we’re prosecuted for the potential for harm, not just actual harm. Legionella is treated as a foreseeable and preventable risk.”  “It’s the transition between just doing the task to understanding the why behind the task.”  “We’re seeing a serious drop in industry standards—a race to the bottom—and that’s why raising the bar is so important.”  “At the end of it, the CWT covers everything. You end up being a complete water treater.”  “Always be honest when you don’t know the answer, then go and learn. That’s how you grow.”   Connect with Jemma Tennant Phone: 447828315336  Email: j.tennant@sms-environmental.co.uk   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jemma-tennant-mwmsoc-2636985b/    Guest Resources Mentioned  Water Management Society (WMSoc)  LMAG - Legionella Management Advisory Group - LMAG  The Women by Kristin Hannah (Author)  HTM 04-01 – UK healthcare water safety standards  The Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 2002 (COSHH Regulations 2002)  Health and Safety at Work etc Act 1974  UKAS Accreditation  ANAB (US Laboratory Accreditation)    Scaling UP! H2O Resources Mentioned  AWT (Association of Water Technologies)  ANSI/ASHRAE Standard 188-2021 for Legionnaires’ Disease Risk Management  ASHRAE Standard-188-2021, Building Water Management Plans – Summary  Scaling UP! H2O Academy video courses  Submit a Show Idea  The Rising Tide Mastermind Ep 101 The One with Colin Frayne, CWT  Ep 203 The One With Our Across The Pond Legionella Expert, John Sandford  Ep 370 Unlocking Legionella Solutions: Perspectives on Regulations and Best Practices    Water You Know with James McDonald Question: Does Hydroxide Alkalinity in a steam boiler water ALWAYS equal 2P-M?   2025 Events for Water Professionals  Check out our Scaling UP! H2O Events Calendar where we’ve listed every event Water Treaters should be aware of by clicking HERE.

    51 min
  3. Optimizing Legionella Control Strategies with Dr. Vincenzo Romano Spica

    AUG 29

    Optimizing Legionella Control Strategies with Dr. Vincenzo Romano Spica

    Legionella remains one of the most complex challenges for water professionals worldwide. How do we balance effective monitoring with realistic costs—and which strategies deliver true public health impact? In this episode, Trace Blackmore welcomes Dr. Vincenzo Romano Spica,  Head Public Health University of Rome "Foro Italico to explore new insights from his comparative research on Legionella control. Reframing Legionella Risk  Dr. Spica explains why public health data increasingly points to Legionella pneumophila—not all Legionella species—as the primary concern for human health. He shares how pan-European data modeling and peer-reviewed studies demonstrate that broad-spectrum monitoring may overburden systems without delivering proportional safety gains.  Cost-Benefit Models and Sustainability  Water professionals know that testing and compliance require resources. Dr. Spica discusses cost-benefit analysis frameworks that help decision-makers evaluate where investments deliver the greatest reduction in risk. He also highlights the sustainability implications of over-testing, from lab resources to environmental waste streams.  European Regulations and Legal Liability  The conversation also explores the European Drinking Water Directive 2020/2184, national approaches to Legionella, and how liability shifts when contamination is detected. Dr. Spica’s insights illuminate what building owners, operators, and regulators must weigh as they update management plans.  Conclusion  For engineers, operators, and technical managers, this episode provides a clear framework for thinking about Legionella beyond routine testing. It’s about focusing on the pathogen that truly drives disease outcomes, aligning regulatory strategy with science, and applying resources where they matter most.  Stay engaged, keep learning, and continue scaling up your knowledge!    Timestamps    02:24 - Trace opens the episode, welcoming listeners to Legionella Awareness Month and framing the call to action  05:37 - Water You Know with James McDonald  10:04 - Upcoming Events for Water Treatment Professionals   14:06 - Trace introduces Dr. Vincenzo Romano Spica, Head of Public Health at the University of Rome Foro Italico   17:22 - Dr. Spica outlines why Legionella pneumophila is the main pathogen of concern in Europe 35:04 - Dr. Spica explains Disability Adjusted Life Years (DALYs) as a measure of public health burden  44:08 - Monitoring strategies and how different culture methods affect outcomes  46:16 - The role of water temperature in Legionella proliferation    Quotes  “Not all Legionella are equal—public health data shows us it’s Legionella pneumophila that drives the real risk.”  “Testing everything may look safer on paper, but in practice, it diverts resources from where they can have the greatest impact.”  “Risk management should not be a checklist; it should be a strategic allocation of resources aligned with outcomes.”  “European data models show that a targeted approach can deliver both better safety and greater sustainability.”    Connect with Dr. Vincenzo Romano Spica   Phone: +39.06.36733247 Email: vincenzo.romanospica@uniroma4.it  LinkedIn: vincenzo romano spica | LinkedIn        Guest Resources Mentioned   Legionnaires’ Disease Surveillance and Public Health Policies in Italy: A Mathematical Model for Assessing Prevention Strategies by Dr. Spica et. al  Alessando Cassini’s Burden of Infectious Diseases in Europe methodological challenges and opportunities for public health policy  NLM’s Impact of infectious diseases on population health using incidence-based disability-adjusted life years (DALYs): results from the Burden of Communicable Diseases in Europe study, European Union and European Economic Area countries, 2009 to 2013  Supplemental information: Impact of UAT Diagnostic Methods on Estimates of Legionnaires’ disease Caused by non-pneumophila Legionella    Scaling UP! H2O Resources Mentioned  AWT (Association of Water Technologies)  Scaling UP! H2O Academy video courses  Submit a Show Idea  Scaling UP! H2O’s Legionella Resources Library  434 Encore Interview with Patsy Root    Water You Know with James McDonald  Question: What is it called when a valve is closed at the end of a pipeline system causing a pressure wave to propagate in the pipe and a loud banging sound?    2025 Events for Water Professionals  Check out our Scaling UP! H2O Events Calendar where we’ve listed every event Water Treaters should be aware of by clicking HERE.

    1h 13m
  4. Encore Interview with Patsy Root

    AUG 22

    Encore Interview with Patsy Root

    “Rules written in a panic rarely stand the test of time.”   In this encore episode, Trace Blackmore welcomes back Patsy Root, Senior Manager of Government Affairs at IDEXX Water and active member of the AWT Legislative and Regulatory Committee. Patsy brings global data, case studies, and clear recommendations for smarter Legionella regulation — and why a targeted focus on Legionella pneumophila can save both lives and resources.   From Outbreaks to Proactive Policies  Patsy unpacks a central truth: most regulations emerge reactively, often after a high-profile outbreak. Drawing on her research from the U.S., Canada, and Europe, she compares different jurisdictions’ approaches — from Quebec’s targeted testing mandate to New York City’s broader species-based rule — and reveals why some frameworks reduce cases far more effectively than others.  The Case for Targeted Testing  Legionella encompasses around 60 species, but not all carry equal risk. Patsy explains why L. pneumophila — the species most responsible for Legionnaires’ disease — demands priority in monitoring and control. Through examples from France, Germany, the UK, and beyond, she demonstrates how focusing on the pathogen itself, rather than all species, leads to measurable public health gains and cost savings.  Educating Lawmakers and Industry  Beyond technical data, Patsy emphasizes the importance of water professionals engaging with legislators. She outlines how clear communication, evidence-based recommendations, and standards like ASHRAE 188 can guide practical, enforceable rules. Her advice balances science with real-world feasibility, helping both regulators and facility managers protect health without unnecessary expense.  This conversation is more than a policy discussion — it’s a blueprint for better public health protection through smart, focused water management. Whether you work in compliance, operations, or advocacy, Patsy’s insights will equip you to engage in the legislative process with clarity and authority. Stay engaged, keep learning, and continue scaling up your knowledge!    Timestamps 01:52 - Trace opens with Legionella Awareness Month reflections and the importance of challenging industry assumptions   05:38 - Water You Know with James McDonald  07:13 - Upcoming Events for Water Treatment Professionals  09:47 - Introduction to guest Patsy Root, Senior Manager of Government Affairs at IDEXX Water and member of AWT’s Legislative & Regulatory Committee.  17:31 - Global comparison of Legionella-related laws and guidelines  27:03 - Understanding Legionella species vs. L. pneumophila  44:42 - Legislative engagement tips for water professionals    Quotes  “The worst time to write a rule is when you’re in the middle of a panic.”  “Finding Legionella species is not the same risk level as finding L. pneumophila — and the data prove it.”  “Keep the hot water hot, keep the cold water cold, keep the water moving, and keep a decent disinfectant.”  “Biology fascinates me — the fact that bacteria can signal each other to come join a good spot is both creepy and amazing.”  “When lawmakers understand how preventable this disease is, they can become champions for real change.”    Connect with Patsy Root Phone: 207-523-0835  Email: Patsy-root@IDEXX.COM   Website: https://www.idexx.com/en/water/    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/idexx-laboratories/    Guest Resources Mentioned   CDC Toolkit: Developing a Legionella Water Management Program  IDEXX Legiolert® Testing Method  IDEXX’s Why test for Legionella pneumophila to prevent Legionnaires’ disease?  Data and Case Study of Effective Legionella Regulations by Patsy Root   NASEM’s Management of Legionella in Water Systems (2019)   MD 15161 – 2013 Control of Legionella in Mechanical Systems  Assessment of monitoring approaches to control Legionella pneumophila within a complex cooling tower system by Michele Prevost et al   The Legionella collagen-like protein employs a distinct binding mechanism for the recognition of host glycosaminoglycans by Garnett et al   The 5 bacterial indicators used by WHO were published in 2013 by Dufour et al   The 5 bacterial indicators used by WHO covered by KWR Publication starting on Page 54 – Section 7.4.4.  Canada Legionella bacteria control in federal buildings  Leveraging regulatory monitoring data for quantitative microbial risk assessment of Legionella pneumophila in cooling towers  NYC Data Catalog about Cooling Tower Registrations  NYC Health’s Cooling Tower Registration and Maintenance    Scaling UP! H2O Resources Mentioned AWT (Association of Water Technologies)   AWT’s Legislative/Regulatory Committee   Submit a Show Idea  The Rising Tide Mastermind  403 Navigating the New Frontier: Patsy Root on Legionella Legislation   Scaling UP! H2O’s Legionella Resources Library  ASHRAE Standard-188-2021, Building Water Management Plans – Summary    Water You Know with James   Question: What is the mass balance around a cooling tower?    2025 Events for Water Professionals  Check out our Scaling UP! H2O Events Calendar where we’ve listed every event Water Treaters should be aware of by clicking HERE.

    56 min
  5. Legionella investigations and LIDO Technology

    AUG 15

    Legionella investigations and LIDO Technology

    What if preventing Legionella outbreaks wasn’t about adding more chemicals, but removing what the bacteria needs to survive? In this episode of Scaling UP! H2O, host Trace Blackmore talks with Dr. David Krause, Certified Industrial Hygienist, toxicologist, and founder of HC3, about his groundbreaking approach — LIDO (Legionella Inhibition by Deoxygenation). Legionella on the Rise  Dr. Krause has investigated high-profile Legionella outbreaks and seen firsthand how current prevention strategies often fall short. Despite ASHRAE 188 standards, CMS requirements, and increasing water management plan adoption, Legionella cases continue to climb — often due to infrastructure issues, insufficient monitoring, and a lack of evidence-based guidance.  Inside an Outbreak Investigation  From the first call at 4:30 on a Friday to the coordination between local health departments, state agencies, and the CDC, Krause explains the rigorous (and sometimes chaotic) process of pinpointing outbreak sources. He also reveals why public communication can make or break an outbreak response.  Introducing LIDO Technology  Rather than relying solely on chemical disinfection, LIDO uses gas transfer membrane contactors to remove dissolved oxygen from hot water systems. Legionella can’t thrive below 0.3 ppm DO — meaning systems treated with LIDO create an inhospitable environment for growth. Krause shares lab results, pilot project findings, and how this approach could extend system life while reducing corrosion and byproducts. The Bigger Picture  This episode goes beyond technology — it’s about rethinking water management, building better outbreak communication, and challenging industry norms. Whether you’re a facility manager, water treater, or public health professional, Krause’s insights will shift the way you think about Legionella control.   Prevention starts with awareness — and action. Dr. Krause’s work shows there’s more than one path to safer water systems, and innovation comes from asking better questions.  Listen now to discover how Legionella investigations unfold and how LIDO technology could reshape prevention. Download the free discussion guide located at Connect with the Guest section, and start the conversation with your team.  Stay engaged, keep learning, and continue scaling up your knowledge!    Timestamps   02:24 - Trace Blackmore shares an Introduction to Legionella Awareness Month and the value of ANSI/ASHRAE 188, ASSE 12080 certification  08:17 - Water You Know with James McDonald  11:52 - Interview with Dr. David Krause and his background in public health, toxicology, and Legionella Investigations   16:36 - Why cases are rising despite standards, plans, and certifications  21:39 - The significance of Legionella pneumophila serogroup 1 vs. other species  26:38 - Media influence on outbreak perception and the need for accurate communication  31:15 - Business risks of not having a water management plan  41:48 - How LIDO works: removing dissolved oxygen to prevent Legionella growth  48:41 - Current pilot projects and operational considerations    Quotes  “Legionella is an obligate aerobe – without dissolved oxygen, it simply can’t grow.” “An ounce of prevention is worth ten pounds of cure when it comes to water management plans.” “Once an outbreak starts, testing becomes your life.” “We have so much information on waterborne pathogens – the challenge is making a habit of learning the next thing.”   Connect with Dr. David Krause Phone: 850-766-1938   Email: dkrause@HC3FL.com   Website: http://www.hc3fl.com/   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drdavidkrause/     Guest Resources Mentioned   AIHA – Recognition, Evaluation, and Control of Legionella in Building Water Systems (2nd Edition, 2022)   ACGIH – Bioaerosols: Assessment and Control (Red Book, Updated Edition)   IDSA's 'Increasing Incidence of Legionellosis in the United States, 1990–2005: Changing Epidemiologic Trends'   Legionella and the Role of Dissolved Oxygen in Its Growth and Inhibition: A Review by J. David Krause   Journal of Occupational and Environmental Hygiene Controlling Legionella pneumophila growth in hot water systems by reducing dissolved oxygen levels by J. David Krause   CSTE – National Legionellosis Case Definitions (2020)  LIDO: A Revolutionary Approach to Legionella Management    Scaling UP! H2O Resources Mentioned  AWT (Association of Water Technologies)  Scaling UP! H2O Academy video courses  Submit a Show Idea  Scaling UP! H2O’s Legionella Resources Library   ASHRAE Standard 188 (Legionellosis: Risk Management for Building Water Systems)  ASHRAE-188-2021-Summary-Technical-Bulletin_01.pdf    Water You Know with James Question: Despite all the training, engineering controls, policies, regulations, laws, and direction, at the end of the day, who is most responsible for your personal safety?    2025 Events for Water Professionals  Check out our Scaling UP! H2O Events Calendar where we’ve listed every event Water Treaters should be aware of by clicking HERE.

    1h 5m
  6. Water Management Plans: Evolving Standards and Best Practices with Matt Freije

    AUG 8

    Water Management Plans: Evolving Standards and Best Practices with Matt Freije

    "Just because you have a water management plan doesn’t mean it’s working."  That’s the hard truth Matt Freije, founder and CEO of HC Info, delivers in this episode of Scaling UP! H2O. As the architect behind LAMPS — a leading cloud-based platform for water management programs — Matt joins Trace Blackmore to explore the critical evolution of water safety, compliance standards, and real-world implementation challenges facing facilities in 2025.   Beyond the Binder: Water Management Plans That Actually Work  In an era of heightened awareness and shifting regulations, simply checking the compliance box is no longer enough. Matt walks us through the CDC data and ASHRAE findings that make a strong case for active, ongoing water management — not just documentation. Drawing from recent outbreak investigations, he explains why implementation, not content, is often the root failure.  Trace and Matt discuss the widespread misconception that water management plans guarantee zero Legionella. They also address the real barriers preventing facilities from taking action — from budget limitations to internal roadblocks — and what water professionals can do to influence smarter, risk-based decisions. Regulatory Pressure, AI Integration, and What’s Coming Next  With ASHRAE 514, AAMI ST108, and ASSE 12080 gaining ground, the water industry is seeing increased scrutiny, especially in healthcare and hospitality facilities. Matt outlines how these evolving standards are transforming expectations and forcing a shift in accountability.  The conversation takes a forward-looking turn as they explore the power of AI and aggregated analytics to optimize pathogen control. With 10,000 buildings in the LAMPS system, HC Info is preparing to offer data that could shape public health outcomes nationwide — a move that could redefine how we benchmark performance and interpret Legionella test data at scale. Culture, Purpose, and Long-Term Vision  As a mechanical engineer with an epidemiology background, Matt also reflects on the human side of leadership — from building a values-driven team to embracing his faith as a cornerstone of decision-making. His message for water treaters is clear: “Either do it well or don’t do it.”  For facilities leaders, his advice is to stop fearing complexity and start leveraging the tools available — because water management done right can improve not just compliance, but health outcomes, asset longevity, and operational resilience. Conclusion  This episode is a masterclass in how to future-proof your water safety strategy. With actionable insights, emerging technologies, and a clear call to accountability, Matt Freije reminds us that smart water management is both a technical responsibility and a moral imperative.  Listen to the full conversation to understand how new standards, digital tools, and intentional leadership are shaping the future of water safety. Stay engaged, keep learning, and continue scaling up your knowledge!    Timestamps   04:50 – Trace reflects on feedback from listeners who learned the origins of Legionella and how re-telling important stories is essential in water treatment education  06:49 - Upcoming Events for Water Treatment Professionals 12:44 – Water You Know with James McDonald  14:14 – Introduction with Matt Freije returning guest   15:46 – Biggest Challenges in Water Management Plans Today  19:47 – Regulatory Evolution: ASHRAE 514, ASC 12080, and Joint Commission Inspections  44:14 – The Document is Not the Plan: Why Systems Must Be Implemented  48:08 – Impact and Adoption: Why Water Management Plans Truly Matter    Quotes  “Either do it well, or don’t do it. A half-hearted water management plan can do more harm than good.”   “Most facilities still don’t have a water management plan — and many don’t even know what one is.”  “Just because you had the conversation once doesn’t mean it stuck. With Legionella, repeating the important things is critical.”  “Analytics should make the problem obvious — you shouldn’t need a PhD to interpret what your water data is telling you.”    Connect with Matt Freije  Email: mfreije@hcinfo.com Website: Legionella Water Management Plans  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattfreije    Guest Resources Mentioned   HC Info  ASHRAE Standard 188 (Legionellosis: Risk Management for Building Water Systems)   ASSE 12080 Certification: Professional Qualifications for Legionella Water Safety and Management Personnel  Good Energy: The Surprising Connection Between Metabolism and Limitless Health by Casey Means  The Boys in the Boat: Nine Americans and Their Epic Quest for Gold at the 1936 Berlin Olympics by Daniel James Brown   John Adams by David McCullough (Audiobook)   John Adams by David McCullough (Paperback)    Keep Your Love On: Connection Communication and Boundaries by Danny Silk (Paperback)  The Bible (KJV)     Scaling UP! H2O Resources Mentioned  AWT (Association of Water Technologies)  Scaling UP! H2O Academy video courses  Submit a Show Idea  The Rising Tide Mastermind   Legionella Resources Library  ANSI/AAMI ST108:2023 Water for the Processing of Medical Services   ASSE 12080 Training & Certification, Get certified to the ASSE/IAPMO/ANSI 12080 Standard: Professional Qualifications Standard for Legionella Water Safety and Management Personnel  CDC's  Key Findings: Outbreaks and Water Management Gaps (2015–2019 review of Legionnaires’ disease investigations   083 The One About Water Management Plans   431 Legionella Awareness Month Kickoff!    Water You Know with James McDonald  Question: What do we call the formation and subsequent collapse of vapor-filled bubbles in water due to rapid pressure changes?    2025 Events for Water Professionals  Check out our Scaling UP! H2O Events Calendar where we’ve listed every event Water Treaters should be aware of by clicking HERE.

    59 min
  7. Legionella Awareness Month Kickoff! Guest Name: Trace Blackmore

    AUG 1

    Legionella Awareness Month Kickoff! Guest Name: Trace Blackmore

    Are You Ready to Talk About Legionella?  Every August, we dedicate an entire month to a topic that touches public health, liability, and the core of what water treaters do — yet it’s still misunderstood by many: Legionella.  In this episode, Trace Blackmore kicks off Legionella Awareness Month by returning to the basics. Where did Legionella get its name? What makes it dangerous? And why is there still confusion between a water treatment program and a water management plan?  Tracing It Back: History, Misconceptions, and Missed Conversations  Trace opens with the 1976 American Legion outbreak in Philadelphia — the moment the medical and water treatment worlds collided. He explains how the bacteria was identified, how the term Legionella pneumophila came to be, and how Pontiac Fever and Legionnaires’ Disease represent two ends of the same pathogenic spectrum.  But more importantly, he challenges us to think critically about the language we use. Saying “Legionella” casually — without understanding whether we’re referring to the bacteria, the illness, or the implications of a test result — can lead to major breakdowns in communication between service providers and facility managers.  A Water Treatment Program Is Not a Legionella Plan  Many professionals know how to deliver great chemical treatment. But too often, when a Legionella test comes back positive, the customer assumes the water treater is responsible. This episode explains how that misunderstanding happens—and how to prevent it through proactive, well-framed conversations.  Trace walks through why seasonal testing is the bare minimum, what makes a good water management team, and why documentation and pre-approved action plans are essential for clarity and peace of mind when results come in.  He also introduces tools like the CDC Legionella Toolkit, ASHRAE 188, and ASSE 12080—resources every industrial water professional should know and use.  The Systems at Risk — And Why It’s Not Just Cooling Towers  Trace breaks down the environments where Legionella thrives cooling towers, stagnant pipes, dead legs, hot water systems with low temperatures, decorative fountains, humidifiers, and spas. He highlights why biofilm protection matters, why heat isn’t always enough, and how mixing valves and plumbing design can support both safety and scald prevention.  You’ll hear how real-world scenarios unfold—and how one positive test, without the right planning, can lead to panic, blame, and liability risk for everyone involved.  Legionella isn't just a technical issue — it's a human one. Whether you’re in the field, managing accounts, or advising clients, this episode offers practical tools and powerful reminders for having the conversations that count.  The professionals who lead these conversations are the ones building trust, avoiding risk, and elevating the industry.   Listen to the full episode and explore the Legionella Resource Library at Legionella Resources. Stay engaged, keep learning, and continue scaling up your knowledge!    Timestamps    02: 12 – Trace opens the episode with an overview of Legionella Awareness Month  08:47 – Legionella vs. Legionellosis  15:51 – The Miscommunication That Hurts Trust  27:13 – Where Legionella Hides  28:14 – Key Resources  33:22 – Water You Know with James McDonald  34:47– Upcoming Events for Water Treatment Professionals    Quotes  “Cooling towers are guilty until proven innocent — and that’s how the industry sees them.”  “Legionella is not your responsibility unless you've set the right expectations in writing.”  “Don’t wait until a test is positive to have the conversation. By then, emotions are already high.”  “ASHRAE 188 doesn’t prescribe. It describes it. It’s up to us to translate it for each system.”  “Education isn't just about reading guidelines. It’s about knowing how to guide your clients.”    Connect with Scaling UP! H2O  Submit a show idea: Submit a Show Idea  LinkedIn: in/traceblackmore/  YouTube: @ScalingUpH2O    Click HERE to Download Episode’s Discussion Guide    Scaling UP! H2O Resources Mentioned  AWT (Association of Water Technologies)  Scaling UP! H2O Academy video courses  Submit a Show Idea  CDC's "Toolkits"  CDC's "Toolkit: Developing a Legionella Water Management Program"  CDC's "Toolkit: Controlling Legionella in Common Sources of Exposure"  ASHRAE 188-2021 “Legionellosis: Risk Management for Building Water Systems”  CMS Mandates Water Management Programs in Healthcare Facilities  CMS QSO 17 – 30 Memorandum   ASSE/IAPMO/ANSI/CAN Series 12000-2024 (Download)  ASSE’s Infection Control and Water Quality  ANSI/AAMI ST108:2023 Water for the Processing of Medical Services    CDC’s Routine Legionella Testing Figure 1: A multifactorial approach to performance indicator interpretation  World Health Organization (WHO) 'Legionellosis'     Water You Know with James McDonald  Question: Why is barium chloride used in the standard Hydroxide Alkalinity test?    2025 Events for Water Professionals  Check out our Scaling UP! H2O Events Calendar where we’ve listed every event Water Treaters should be aware of by clicking HERE.

    39 min
  8. PFAS Regulations and Technologies with Brian Liotta

    JUL 25

    PFAS Regulations and Technologies with Brian Liotta

    “The winning combination will include not just removal—but real destruction of PFAS.” - Brian Liotta PFAS: The Invisible Challenge Reshaping Water Treatment  PFAS chemicals are everywhere—from consumer products to our bloodstream. But as regulations tighten, water treatment professionals must now evolve faster than ever. In this episode of Scaling UP! H2O, host Trace Blackmore speaks with Brian Liotta, Director of Marketing and Product Development at USALCO, about the shifting regulatory landscape and the advanced technologies being developed to monitor, remove, and destroy PFAS compounds. From Industry Curiosity to Regulatory Urgency  Brian candidly shares how he “fell into” the world of PFAS, sparked by client questions and his work with AWT’s Wastewater Subcommittee. Over time, he became one of the industry's clearest voices on how PFAS is transforming everything from chemical manufacturing to compliance practices. In this conversation, Brian breaks down the science, the timeline, and the technologies professionals need to understand—whether they’re manufacturers, consultants, or field engineers. Testing, Treatment, and Destruction: What's Working and What's Coming  Testing for PFAS isn’t straightforward. Brian outlines why high-performance liquid chromatography and mass spectrometry are still standard, despite the lack of affordable, field-ready kits. Then, he walks us through the big three: granular activated carbon, ion exchange, and membrane filtration—explaining how each performs and what their operational limits are. He also introduces lesser-known but emerging strategies like foam fractionation, electrostatic concentration, and supercritical water oxidation—some of which could shape the next generation of end-to-end PFAS solutions.  The Legal Front: EPA Rules, State Action, and the Chevron Doctrine  The conversation turns toward the regulatory environment: from the EPA’s national drinking water standard of 4 parts per trillion to individual state actions in California, Maine, New York, and others. Brian unpacks the implications of the Chevron Doctrine being overturned and why this legal shift may slow federal implementation but accelerate state-led policies. What It Means for Water Treatment Professionals  Whether you're new to industrial water or managing a large portfolio, Brian delivers a simple but powerful takeaway: understand the regulations, study the technologies, and provide solutions. With PFAS-related services on the rise, the opportunity for technical leadership and business growth is clear—but only for those who do their homework and move early.  Conclusion  PFAS isn’t just a regulatory buzzword—it’s a catalyst for innovation. As Brian notes, the most successful professionals will be those who bridge the gap between evolving science and real-world application. This episode equips you with a deeper understanding of what’s at stake and how to lead your customers through uncertainty with confidence. Stay engaged, keep learning, and continue scaling up your knowledge!    Timestamps   10:35 – Water You Know with James McDonald  12:52 – Upcoming Events for Water Treatment Professionals   18:06 – Interview with Brian Liotta Director of Marketing & Product Development of USALCO   22:15 — What is PFAS?   26:00 — EPA’s new 4 parts per trillion PFAS drinking water standard and what it means 32:06 — Treatment technologies: GAC, ion exchange, reverse osmosis, and their pros and cons 37:32 — Emerging innovations: foam fractionation, electrostatic concentration, and plasma-based destruction 42:00 — State-by-state PFAS regulations and implications of the Chevron Doctrine ruling 46:20 — Advice to new water professionals: understand the regulations, then bring the right solutions   Quotes  “Regulation drives our business. If you're not paying attention, you're not preparing your customers.” “PFAS are in our water, our products, even our bloodstream. This isn’t hype—it’s science catching up.” “Some of the smartest people I know ask a lot of questions. Curiosity is how you become valuable.”  “We’re seeing companies build end-to-end treatment trains. That’s where the innovation is happening.”    Connect with Brian Liotta  Phone: 15102747326  Email: bliotta@usalco.com   Website: Water Treatment Chemicals - Baltimore, MD | USALCO  LinkedIn: Brian Liotta | LinkedIn  Click HERE to Download Episode’s Discussion Guide    Guest Resources Mentioned   Interstate Technology & Regulatory Council (ITRC) ITRC Resources Guide   ITRC PFAS (Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances)   Join ITRC PFAS Team  EPA PFAS Resource Center  Battelle PFAS ANNIHILATOR® Destruction Technology  Measure What Matters: How Google, Bono, and the Gates Foundation Rock the World with OKRs  This Is Your Brain on Music: The Science of a Human Obsession by Daniel J. Levitin  Brooks: The Biography of Brooks Robinson  EPA National Primary Drinking Water Regulation for PFAS (2023)   Chevron Doctrine Overturn (2024) – Supreme Court Decision  EPA Announces It Will Keep Maximum Contaminant Levels for PFOA, PFOS   EPA’s Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) in Sewage Sludge  EPA's Summary of the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA)  MIT News ‘ A new sensor detects harmful “forever chemicals” in drinking water ‘  AWWA’s Journal: Treating PFAS-Laden Waste Using Aqueous Electrostatic Concentration   California adopts health-protective goals for forever chemicals in drinking water  Colorado PFAS Restrictions  Maine PFAS   Maryland PFAS   Maryland PFAS in Biosolids Regulatory Update – August 20, 2024    Scaling UP! H2O Resources Mentioned  AWT (Association of Water Technologies)  Scaling UP! H2O Academy video courses  Submit a Show Idea  The Rising Tide Mastermind Ep 410 Unleash Your Pricing Power: Casey Brown’s ‘Fearless Pricing’ Revolutionizes Business Value  Ep 408 Pinks and Blues: The Power of Processes  Fearless Pricing: Ignite Your Team, Own Your Value, and Command What You Deserve by Casey Brown    Water You Know with James McDonald  Question: If you place a small amount of concentrated hydrochloric acid on a deposit sample and it bubbles, what is this likely to indicate?    2025 Events for Water Professionals  Check out our Scaling UP! H2O Events Calendar where we’ve listed every event Water Treaters should be aware of by clicking HERE.

    1h 1m
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4.8
out of 5
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About

The podcast where we scale up on knowledge so we don't scale up our systems. Find out why working in Industrial Water Treatment is the best job in the world. Hear industry experts share their knowledge and stories. Learn about technologies, methods, and career journeys. Join podcast host Trace Blackmore, former AWT President, LEED, and CWT every Friday for a new episode.

Information

  • Creator
    scalinguph2o.com
  • Years Active
    2017 - 2025
  • Episodes
    452
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2018 All Rights Reserved, Blackmore Enterprises, Inc.
  • Show Website
    Scaling UP! H2O

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