The WQA Podcast

Water Quality Association
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The Water Quality Association is the leading voice of the water treatment industry. wqa.org. WQA Radio features experts and members of WQA who can comment on issues affecting water quality.

  1. 3H AGO

    #424 - What to Know Before You Go to the WQA Convention & Expo

    Welcome to the Water Quality Association Podcast. Find us at https://wqa.org. The WQA Convention & Expo (Miami Beach - April 28-30, 2026) is the premier gathering for water treatment professionals—and preparation is key to making the most of it. In this episode, WQA Events Director Angie Silberhorn shares practical insights to help attendees plan ahead, navigate the schedule, and maximize their experience in Miami Beach. In this episode: Why in-person interaction still matters—and what you can’t replicate online How to plan your schedule for maximum ROI What’s new this year, including expanded general sessions and roundtable discussions How to use the Convention app to schedule meetings and map your Expo strategy Tips for first-time attendees Key “don’t miss” moments, including general sessions, Expo hours, and networking events Key takeaway: The most successful attendees don’t just show up—they prepare in advance. 🔗 Learn more and plan your experience: https://wqa.org/convention This episode is brought to you by Corro-Protec, powered anode rods for water heaters trusted by water treatment professionals and WQA members across North America. As Corro-Protec celebrates 20 years in the industry, they'll be presenting a must-attend technical session at next week's WQA Convention & Expo in Miami Beach: "The Effects of Water Softeners on Water Heater Performance: Managing Odor, Corrosion & Warranty Implications in Low to High TDS Environments" Day 2: April 29, 2026 at 8:00 a.m.

    22 min

  2. APR 8

    #423 - Getting the Most from WQA Convention Education

    What should you expect from the education program at this year’s WQA Convention? In this episode of the Water Quality Association Podcast, Tanya Lubner and John McCartan of the Water Quality Association walk through the key sessions and learning opportunities available to attendees. Topics include artificial intelligence, business strategy, technical training, roundtable discussions, and practical tips for building your schedule and earning continuing education credits. If you're planning to attend, this conversation will help you make the most of your time. Learn more at http://wqa.org/convention.

    18 min

  3. MAR 25

    #422 -- The Hidden Opportunity in Small Community Water Systems

    Welcome to the Water Quality Association podcast. Https://wqa.org. Small community water systems represent a major opportunity in water treatment—yet many professionals don’t realize they’re already part of it. In this episode, DJ Shannahan, MWS, joins Wes Bleed to explain how systems serving schools, campgrounds, and mobile home parks create pathways for recurring revenue, long-term service contracts, and expanded business relationships. The conversation covers licensing, real-world business examples, and the role of WQA in providing education, certification, and industry insight. Also included: a preview of the upcoming WQA Convention in Miami Beach, where small system opportunities will be a key focus. https://wqa.org/convention. Watch this podcast on YouTube: https://youtu.be/43Si0-GfCGs

    20 min

  4. MAR 10

    #421 - Tracking the Water Treatment Industry's Growth Through 2027

    How does the water treatment industry move with the broader economy—and what does that mean for planning ahead? In this episode, Wes Bleed is joined by Bryanna Poczatek of the Water Quality Association and Keith Johnson of Ecowater Systems to discuss the WQA Cross-Correlation Report. They explain how industry data is correlated with external economic indicators, what the post-pandemic data reveals, and how members can use these insights to anticipate future trends. The discussion also covers 2026–2027 growth projections and how WQA members can access and apply the report. The WQA Convention & Expo is coming up April 28-30, 2026 in Miami Beach. Learn more and register at https://wqa.org/convention.

    15 min

  5. FEB 25

    #420 - WQA State Gov Affairs

    Welcome to the Water Quality Association Podcast. WQA Government Affairs Manager Paige O’Malley joins host Wes Bleed to discuss state-level legislative trends impacting the water treatment industry. Topics include private well legislation, school drinking water initiatives, PFAS mitigation, water softener regulation, and coalition advocacy efforts across more than 300 tracked state bills in 2025. Learn how WQA’s state engagement supports members and complements federal advocacy work. Join us in Miami Beach for the WQA Convention & Expo April 28-30, 2026. Learn more at https://wqa.org/convention.

    23 min

  6. FEB 18

    #419 - WQA's Government Affairs Federal Report

    Welcome to the Water Quality Association Podcast. Find us at https://wqa.org. Caroline Kenney, WQA's Government Affairs Manager, and Ted Mondloch of Current Strategies join the podcast to discuss federal policy developments impacting the water treatment industry. Topics include the Healthy H2O Act, PFAS regulations, the Lead and Copper Rule, FIFRA reform efforts, and the importance of WQA’s advocacy work in Washington. This is Part One of WQA’s ongoing review of its Government Affairs Annual Report.

    26 min

  7. FEB 4

    #418 - Legacy & Leadership -- A Career in Water

    As he retires from his role as Chief Operating Officer of the Water Quality Association, Tom Bruursema reflects on more than 40 years in the water treatment industry. In this conversation, Tom discusses: How the industry has matured and gained credibility The shift from “water softening” to health-focused treatment solutions The role of science, standards, and collaboration in building trust Leadership lessons learned through mentoring and industry service Opportunities ahead for the next generation of water professionals A thoughtful, forward-looking discussion with one of the industry’s most respected leaders. Plan to attend the WQA Convention & Expo in Miami Beach April 28-30, 2026. Learn more at https://wqa.org/convention.

    27 min

  8. JAN 21

    #417 - WQA's New Strategic Affairs Officer

    On The Water Quality Association Podcast, we’re joined by Richard Mest, who has stepped into a newly created role as WQA’s Strategic Affairs Officer. Richard is no stranger to the association or the industry. He’s served WQA as President, Board member, volunteer, and advocate, and his leadership spans decades of involvement at both the association and manufacturer levels, including his time with A. O. Smith. He’s also been deeply involved in government affairs, helping establish WQA’s presence in Washington, D.C., and has led nationally through roles like president of the Water Systems Council. In this conversation, we’ll talk about why he wanted to step into this new strategic role, what members can expect, including mentorship, how the association is positioned in today’s regulatory environment, and what success looks like in this new role.

    24 min
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Ratings & Reviews

4.9
out of 5
7 Ratings

About

The Water Quality Association is the leading voice of the water treatment industry. wqa.org. WQA Radio features experts and members of WQA who can comment on issues affecting water quality.

Information

  • Creator
    Water Quality Association
  • Years Active
    2017 - 2026
  • Episodes
    441
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © All rights reserved
  • Show Website
    The WQA Podcast

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