Eric speaks with Shawn Hale, who is associated with the aquatic and coral hobby through ventures like Reef Builders, Reef Therapy, and the Reefstock show. The conversation begins with a discussion of Hale's multitasking lifestyle and previous experiences working multiple jobs to pay for school, contrasting this with the current challenges of managing his various professional commitments. A significant portion of the interview focuses on the Reeftock event in Las Vegas, with Hale discussing the marketing difficulties and lower-than-expected attendance for the inaugural show, while maintaining an optimistic outlook for its future. Hale also shares the emotional backstory of acquiring Reef Builders after the passing of its original founder, Jake Adams, and explains the platform's mission to provide diverse content—articles, videos, and podcasts—to educate and appeal to the broad reef-keeping community. 

Key Takeaways:

• Dedicate yourself fully to your goals by accepting long hours and putting in the initial necessary grind.
• Always maintain an optimistic and positive mindset to maximize every opportunity, regardless of immediate circumstances.
• Be authentic in your personal and professional life and focus on being yourself instead of trying to imitate others.
• Analyze your mistakes and proactively plan projects, ensuring you allocate sufficient time and awareness for success.
• Maintain independence and credibility by diversifying your support structure rather than relying too heavily on any single source of influence.

🔗 Links and Resources

Business & Sales Tools

• Contractor Sales Secrets

• Book a Call with Eric Triplett 

Pond Industry Resources

• The Pond Digger

• Helix Pond Filtration

• EasyPro Pond Products

• Atlantic-Oase

• Fitz Fish Ponds – Koi Trips 

• Pond Trade Magazine

Events & Communities

• 2025 LCR Summit (Oct. 20–21, Louisville, KY)

• TWT Contractor Circle (Facebook Group)

• TWT Contractor Power Circle (Facebook Group)

Social Media

• The Pond Digger on Instagram

• The Pond Digger on Facebook

• Train With Triplett on TikTok