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. The Price of Doing Business - Steve & Wayne

    15 HR AGO

    The Price of Doing Business - Steve & Wayne

    Pool Pros text questions here Thursdays with Steve & Wayne “The Price of Doing Business” 🧠 Overview This week on Talking Pools Podcast, Steve and Wayne break down the reality of running a pool service company—where one service call can derail your entire day and expose bigger industry problems. 👨‍🔧 From the Field A commercial emergency turns into a full-blown headache involving:  Faulty flow meters  Leaking high-pressure filters  Multiple supply runs  Hours of downtime 👉 The takeaway: In commercial service, failure isn’t an option. ⚙️ Equipment Issues  Traditional flow meters and gauges are often unreliable  Installation standards don’t match real-world conditions  More pros are switching to better-performing alternatives like FlowVis-style meters 💸 The Pricing Problem Steve uncovers a major issue:  Distributor price: ~$700  Online price: ~$500  Knockoff: ~$200 👉 For the first time: “I couldn’t sell this in good conscience.” 🌐 The Internet Changed Everything Today’s customers:  Check prices instantly  Know what things cost  Question everything 👉 And honestly? We all do the same thing. 🧪 Bigger Industry Concern  Equipment failing too quickly  Warranties getting harder to process  Manufacturers losing control of pricing 👉 If cheaper works the same… what are we paying for? 📣 Get Involved Seen this in your business?  📧 talkingpools@gmail.com 🏆 Mentor Award Nominate someone who shaped your career:  👉 cpoclass.com LaMotte CompanyLaMotte Company is a leading manufacturer of water quality testing products & pool test kitsCalifornia Pool AssociationPool Industry Trade OrganizationCMAHCThe Council for the Model Aquatic Health Code promotes health & safety at public swimming poolsDisclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the show Thank you so much for listening! You can find us on social media: FacebookInstagramTik TokEmail us: talkingpools@gmail.com

    45 min
  2. The Future of Fire Features - Natalie Hood with Matt Doll

    1 DAY AGO

    The Future of Fire Features - Natalie Hood with Matt Doll

    Pool Pros text questions here In an industry where misinformation spreads faster than wildfire, this episode pulls no punches. Natalie Hood sits down with Matt Doll, CEO of American Fire Products, to dismantle some of the most persistent—and dangerous—myths surrounding fire features in outdoor environments. From DIY disasters to misunderstood gas systems, this conversation is a wake-up call for builders, service pros, and homeowners alike. Because here’s the truth: 👉 Fire features are not decorative add-ons.  👉 They are engineered systems.  👉 And when they’re done wrong… they fail hard. 🔥 What You’ll Learn in This Episode 🚫 The Myths That Won’t Die  Why you can’t just throw any glass into a fire pit (and what happens if you do)  The dangerous assumption that “a burner is just a metal ring” Why stainless steel is NOT all the same (201 vs. 304 matters more than you think)  The truth about DIY fire pits and YouTube “experts” Why cheap online fire pits can become expensive problems ⚙️ The Technical Reality (That Most People Miss)  The difference between natural gas vs. propane systems Why gas volume vs. pressure changes everything  How media (lava rock, glass) actually affects flame performance  The role of ventilation, drainage, and airflow in preventing catastrophic failure  Why drop-in pans and proper ignition systems are non-negotiable in high-end builds 💸 The Cost of Doing It Wrong  Real-world examples of $40,000 failures from poor system selection  How undersized gas lines lead to weak flames and angry clients Why builders often get blamed for products they didn’t even choose The hidden risks of cheap materials and knockoff components🧠 The Smart Approach (What Pros Should Be Doing)  Designing around engineered, off-the-shelf systems to reduce cost and risk  Planning for gas, electrical, and system integration BEFORE construction Using certified components and proper materials (not hardware store shortcuts)  Building fire features that increase property value AND performance Support the show Thank you so much for listening! You can find us on social media: FacebookInstagramTik TokEmail us: talkingpools@gmail.com

    1hr 4min
  3. Andrea is  Making Social Media Work for You (Without Letting It Take Over Your Route)

    2 DAYS AGO

    Andrea is Making Social Media Work for You (Without Letting It Take Over Your Route)

    Pool Pros text questions here 🎙️ Making Social Media Work for You (Without Letting It Take Over Your Route) In this episode of Talking Pools Podcast, Andrea breaks down a question she’s been hearing more and more from pool pros in the field: 👉 “How are you posting so much… and still getting your pools done?” What follows is a real-world, no-BS look at how to use social media as a tool—not a second job. This isn’t about going viral.  This isn’t about chasing millions of views. This is about efficiency, strategy, and staying relevant without sacrificing your route, your time, or your sanity. Andrea shares practical, field-tested insights on:  Filming content while you’re already working (without slowing yourself down)  Choosing the right pools—and customers—to film at (and avoiding problems)  Using simple tools like POV shots and B-roll to create content fast  Avoiding time-wasting traps like over-editing, bad camera setup, and unnecessary gear  Understanding how algorithms actually work (and how to work with them, not against them)  Posting strategies that drive engagement without burning you out  Why clickbait, rage bait, and auto-sharing can quietly wreck your reach  How to stay consistent—even when you’re slammed with work There’s also a deeper message running underneath this entire episode: 👉 Social media should support your business—not compete with it. If you’ve ever felt like content creation is pulling you away from what actually makes you money, this episode will help you recalibrate and take control of your time again. Real talk. Real experience. Real strategies that actually work in the field. 📲 Listen now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts—and start making social media work for you, not the other way around. POOL MAGAZINE Pool Magazine is leading up to the minute news source for Swimming Pool News and Pool Features. OuDisclaimer: 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

    42 min
  4. The Chlorine Panic Is Missing the Point - Mondays

    3 DAYS AGO

    The Chlorine Panic Is Missing the Point - Mondays

    Pool Pros text questions here In this continuation of their conversation, Lee, Shane, and Nick are joined again by industry expert Spiros from Next Gen Experts to break down a topic that’s generating serious noise across the pool industry right now: proposed workplace exposure changes and what they actually mean. This isn’t a surface-level chlorine conversation. It’s a deep dive into how regulations, standards, and real-world operations collide—and where the industry needs to be paying attention versus where it might be overreacting. 🧠 Key Topics Discussed 🔹 Toolbox Talks You’re Already Doing (But Not Documenting) Many pool businesses are already holding informal safety and operations meetings—but without documentation, they don’t count. Spiros explains how simple adjustments can turn everyday conversations into compliant, valuable safety practices without adding complexity.  🔹 Safe Work Australia Proposal — What’s Really Happening There’s been a lot of chatter about new workplace exposure limits—especially around chlorine. But here’s the reality:  This is not just about chlorine It includes 100+ chemicals (bromine, acids, hydrogen peroxide, etc.)  It spans gases, vapors, dusts, and airborne residues It affects multiple industries—not just poolsSpiros emphasizes that the proposal is broad, complex, and still lacking the evidence needed to justify sweeping changes. 🔹 Air Quality, Ventilation, and the Limits of Control The conversation shifts into something most techs never think about: 👉 You can control what you add to the water  👉 You can’t fully control what ends up in the air From HVAC systems in aquatic centers to chemical off-gassing, there’s an entire layer of engineering happening behind the scenes—especially indoors—that most service pros never see.  🔹 The Reality Check: Regulation vs Practicality If these proposals were implemented as-is, the implications could be massive:  Retail pool stores may require advanced ventilation systems  Many locations (especially leased or strata properties) may not be able to comply  Costs could outweigh benefits—with no guaranteed improvement in outcomesBottom line: There’s still a long road ahead before anything becomes enforceable. 🔹 Chlorine Smell, Chloramines, and Misconceptions That “pool smell” everyone talks about? It’s not just chlorine—it’s often chloramines and other byproducts. The discussion highlights:  Why some facilities don’t smell like chlorine  What corrosion inside buildings can reveal about air quality  How environmental factors (like salt air) complicate everything 🔹 Australian Standard 3633 — A Major Update Coming One of the biggest takeaways: 👉 The 40-year-old Australian pool water standard is being completely overhauled What’s coming:  A unified standard for residential and public pools A performance-based approach (focus on results, not rigid methods)  More scientific and technical depth A document designed to become the industry benchmarkPublic review is expected soon—and industry participation wil Support the show Thank you so much for listening! You can find us on social media: FacebookInstagramTik TokEmail us: talkingpools@gmail.com

    28 min
  5. Legal Cases Involving Pool Chemicals

    6 DAYS AGO

    Legal Cases Involving Pool Chemicals

    Pool Pros text questions here This episode explores the complexities of pool chemistry, legal considerations, industry trends, and the importance of understanding over following instructions blindly. Rudy Stankowitz shares insights on how industry control, product formulation disputes, and safety regulations impact pool professionals and consumers. Keywords pool chemistry, pool industry, pool safety, chemical regulation, pool maintenance, pool education, legal cases, industry trends Key Topics Pool chemistry complexities and safetyLegal cases involving pool chemicalsIndustry trends towards simplification and controlGuest Name Rudy Stankowitz Sound Bites "Follow the label, protect yourself legally.""Chemistry doesn't forgive mistakes.""Your knowledge is your best defense."Chapters 00:00 Understanding Label Instructions in Pool Care 10:50 The Importance of Testing Over Following Rules 14:23 Legal Implications of Chemical Labels 27:48 Industry Trends: Simplifying Pool Care AquaStar Pool ProductsThe Global Leader in Safety, Dependability, & Innovation in Pool Technology.POOL MAGAZINE Pool Magazine is leading up to the minute news source for Swimming Pool News and Pool Features. OuBLUERAY XLThe real mineral purifier! Reduce your pool maintenance costs & efforts by 50%Jack's MagicIf you know Jack's you'd have no stains!Service Industry NewsCPO Certification ClassesAttend your CPO class with Rudy Stankowitz!the 'How to Get Rid of Algae' handbookThe most comprehensive guide on algae prevention and remediation you will ever own. Online Pool ClassesThe difference between you and your competition is what you know!Disclaimer: 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

    38 min
  6. Talk to your insurance agent before big projects

    23 APR

    Talk to your insurance agent before big projects

    Pool Pros text questions here In this episode, Steve Sherwood interviews Pat Grignone from California Pool Association to explore how pool service professionals can optimize their business operations, partnerships, and insurance strategies to grow profitably and sustainably. Keywords pool service, business growth, partnerships, insurance, pool renovation, subcontracting, liability, pool industry Key Topics Business capacity and scaling in the pool industryPartnering with subcontractors and specialistsManaging insurance and liability for large projectsStreamlining operations for profitabilityBest practices for pool renovation and startupGuest Name Pat Grignone Sound Bites "Control the entire renovation and startup process""Talk to your insurance agent before big projects""Check in with your insurer when business changes"Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction 00:15 Steve's Personal Pool Industry Story 01:09 Challenges of Scaling a Pool Service Business 02:01 Balancing Service, Repairs, and Billing 02:54 Strategies for Managing Growth and Capacity 04:02 Partnering with Subcontractors and Vendors 08:31 Pricing and Profitability in Renovations 09:23 Managing Renovation and Startup Processes 10:45 Controlling Quality and Long-term Service 11:37 Partnerships with Leak Detection and Plaster Companies 12:35 The Cost of Equipment and Building a Large Company 13:45 Controlling the Entire Pool Renovation Process 14:25 Advice for Companies Outsourcing Jobs 15:16 Financial and Insurance Considerations for Large Jobs 16:11 Tax and Insurance Implications of High-Value Jobs 18:01 Monitoring Revenue and Insurance Changes 18:55 Closing Remarks and Contact Information Support the show Thank you so much for listening! You can find us on social media: FacebookInstagramTik TokEmail us: talkingpools@gmail.com

    21 min
  7. Debunking Water Chemistry Myths with Eric Knight

    22 APR

    Debunking Water Chemistry Myths with Eric Knight

    Pool Pros text questions here This episode busts common water chemistry myths, explores the science behind pool maintenance, and discusses the future of industry education. Featuring Eric Knight from Watershape University, it offers practical insights for professionals seeking to improve their water management skills. Keywords water chemistry, pool maintenance, water shaping, pool industry education, pool myths, chlorine, pH, alkalinity, CYA, salt systems Key Topics Water chemistry misconceptionsProper water testing and treatmentImpact of pH, alkalinity, and CYA on poolsGuest Name Eric Knight Sound Bites "The acid column pour myth is not accurate""Adjusted alkalinity is not the true alkalinity""Salt systems do not inherently raise pH"Contact Watershape University Homepage Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Water Chemistry Education 04:19 Eric Knight's Journey in Aquatics 07:12 The Future of the Pool Industry 09:52 Debunking Myths about Watershape University 12:55 Understanding the Curriculum and Its Accessibility 14:45 Advanced Training and Certification 14:52 Customer Service in Pool Industry 16:23 Debunking Water Chemistry Myths 23:33 Understanding pH and Chlorine Strength 29:46 The Future of Pool Automation 34:40 Understanding pH Myths in Swimming Pools 40:14 Salt Systems and Their Chemistry 43:22 Cyanuric Acid: The Misunderstood Protector 49:35 The Importance of Education and Automation in Pool Management The Grit GameThe Grit Game, is not just playing the game, we’re changing it. 500+ years industry experience, Revdup Apparel a custom apparel company built for the pool industry. Founded by pool professionalsDisclaimer: 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

    55 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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