In episode 243 of the Pool Nation Podcast, we dive deep into the recent Pool Nation Boot Camps at Heritage Pool Supply and Raypak Headquarters in Oxnard, California. Edgar and Zac break down key moments from both events, including highlights from the $10,000 Pool Pro Repair Tech Challenge qualifiers, hands-on training with automation and heaters, and powerful business education sessions focused on leadership, KPIs, and cost of service.

Hear real stories from pool pros who traveled from across the country—Arizona, Florida, Tennessee, Georgia, New York—to invest in their businesses and grow their teams. We also talk about the rise of team-focused training, peer-to-peer networking, and the kind of education that goes beyond the technical side of pool service and repair.

Plus, we introduce a new topic for our next podcast series: The 5 Habits of Highly Successful Pool Professionals—a deep dive into the traits that separate good pool pros from great business leaders in the pool industry.

Whether you're a pool service tech, repair pro, or business owner looking to scale, this episode is packed with inspiration, insights, and practical takeaways you can use today.

Powered by our amazing partners: SPPA, BluRay XL, AquaStar Pool Products, Natural Chemistry, Raypak, Hayward, Heritage Pool Supply, Poolside Tech, and Pool Brain.

Timestamps:

[00:00:00] – Podcast Intro

[00:01:00] – Edgar and Zac talk life updates: college visits and real estate transitions

[00:04:00] – Recapping the Heritage Boot Camp: attendance, energy, and team participation

[00:08:00] – Employee engagement, team-building, and national attendees

[00:12:00] – Hands-on training: wiring automation, heater repair, teamwork at the stations

[00:16:00] – Business education: foundational leadership principles for every business stage

[00:20:00] – Doreen’s leadership framework tied to the 4 business phases

[00:22:00] – Touring Gold Medal Pools: operations, systems, and culture

[00:24:00] – Matrix training recap: operational KPIs, financial KPIs, and business fundamentals

[00:26:00] – Accountability training: driving real results after training

[00:33:00] – Raypak Boot Camp Recap: intimate vibe, deep heater training, and IPSA support

[00:39:00] – Hot Room at Raypak: live fire heater testing and manometer training

[00:43:00] – Automation training with The Attendant: streamlined, hands-on experience

[00:45:00] – Business day at Raypak and why attendance exceeded expectations

[00:49:00] – Championship qualifiers: energy, pressure, and standing ovation moments

[00:55:00] – Upcoming podcast preview: The 5 Key Habits of Successful Pool Pros

[00:58:00] – Final thoughts and gratitude for attendees, sponsors, and the Pool Nation family