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This week’s episode is a little bit of everything — industry insight, real talk, and a peek behind the curtain of what’s happening with the people who keep this trade moving forward.

We’re starting with something close to home: our Mentor Awards. You’ll hear from a few of the folks whose names carry serious weight in this industry — the people who have shaped, guided, and inspired so many pool pros. These conversations aren’t scripted or polished for press releases; they’re raw and real, with lessons tucked in for anyone who cares about doing better in this business. On top of that, we’re giving a shout-out to the sponsors who stepped up to make the Mentor Awards possible. Without their support, we wouldn’t be able to shine a spotlight on the people who keep raising the bar for everyone.

Then, we pivot into industry news that’s been making headlines. First up: the Ashli Babbitt wrongful death lawsuit. It’s a story that stretches far beyond the pool world but has been playing out in the background of American life for years. The recent settlement tells us a lot about how the courts and the government are handling one of the most polarizing events in recent history. We break it down without the noise — just what happened, what it means, and why it’s worth paying attention.

Next, we look at Leslie’s and their 1-for-20 reverse stock split. On the surface, it sounds like a bold move. In reality, it’s a survival tactic — one designed to keep their stock listed and their brand in play on Wall Street. But what does that mean for pool pros out here grinding every day? That’s where the conversation gets interesting. We talk about what this move signals about Leslie’s future, how it might shape retail strategies, and what independents should be watching for as the industry landscape shifts.

And of course, we couldn’t have a “Sarah the Pool Girl” episode without Sarah herself. She may be officially on maternity leave, but if you know Sarah, you know she’s not one to just sit still. Between diaper duty and pool talk, she’s welding turquoise jewelry, sewing quillows, and basically proving that maternity leave doesn’t mean hitting pause on creativity. You’ll get her voice, her humor, and her trademark grit — even if she’s supposed to be “resting.”

This one’s part mentorship, part business, part breaking news, and part life update — the kind of mix that makes the Talking Pools Podcast what it is. Whether you’re out on your route, stuck in traffic, or just winding down after a long day, you’ll find something here that sticks.

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