Podcasts – SpaRetailer

In this episode of The SpaRetailer Podcast, host Megan Kendrick talks with Travis Hogan, owner of Fiesta Pools and Spas in Tulsa, Oklahoma. They discuss how Travis got into the hot tub and pool business, starting from his humble beginnings in pool maintenance to eventually purchasing and expanding Fiesta Pools. Travis shares insights on business challenges, including transitioning into a well-established company at a young age, learning servant leadership, and implementing strategic planning to expand and adapt the business. They also delve into the importance of convenience for customers and the impact of recent economic changes, like tariffs. Additionally, Travis discusses his passion for real estate and how it complements his retail business. The episode emphasizes the significance of creating a positive company culture, making informed business decisions, and continually learning and adapting in a competitive market.

00:00 Welcome to the Spa Retailer Podcast
00:41 Meet Travis Hogan of Fiesta Pools and Spas
01:11 A Field Trip to Fiesta Pools
01:31 The Value of Business Travel
03:38 Diverse Offerings at Fiesta Pools
04:58 Travis Hogan’s Journey into the Hot Tub Business
09:26 The Importance of Real Estate in Business
17:37 Challenges and Lessons in Business Ownership
21:00 The Role of Servant Leadership
31:48 Building a Support Network
38:48 Expanding Fiesta Pools and Spas
44:05 Navigating Real Estate and Rent Challenges
44:56 The Importance of Convenience in Consumer Behavior
46:09 Adapting to COVID-19 and Changing Retail Landscape
48:03 Balancing Proximity and Technology in Retail
50:15 Facing Industry Transitions and Uncertainties
55:08 Managing Tariffs and Pricing Strategies
58:33 Reflecting on Business Decisions and Growth
01:05:10 Lessons from Early Jobs and Business Ventures
01:08:38 The Value of Core Values and Leadership
01:11:37 Book Recommendations and Personal Insights
01:16:54 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this episode of The SpaRetailer Podcast, host Megan Kendrick interviews Scott Gettings, co-owner of Hot Tub Superstore, which has locations in Reno, Vegas, and Scottsdale, Arizona. Scott shares his background coming from the car business and how he transitioned into the hot tub industry through a partnership with his roommate and now business partner, Dan. They discuss the importance of consistent sales training, strategic planning around economic and political climates, and the challenges of expanding into new markets. Scott also emphasizes the significance of community involvement and maintaining a local business feel, along with navigating the complexities of financing and the importance of having complementary skills in a business partnership. This episode provides valuable insights into business growth, market expansion, and the operational intricacies of running multiple retail locations in the hot tub industry.

00:00 Introduction to the SpaRetailer Podcast
00:36 Meet Scott Gettings: From Cars to Hot Tubs
01:05 Scott’s Background and Family Life
02:16 Transition from Car Business to Hot Tub Industry
03:46 Partnership Dynamics and Business Growth
05:34 Navigating the Hot Tub Market During the Pandemic
07:11 Sales Strategies and Training
11:03 Expansion Plans and Market Challenges
17:42 Local Business Strategies and Community Engagement
20:39 Financing Options and Industry Insights
21:57 Balancing Business Models: High Volume vs. High Margin
23:31 The Importance of Business Identity and Customer Service
23:54 Economic Climate and Financing Options
27:03 Navigating Business Partnerships
30:52 Challenges and Rewards of Business Expansion
37:57 Lessons Learned: Product Failures and Successes
40:43 Managing Remote Stores and Leveraging Technology
41:39 Recommended Reads for Business Owners
42:41 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this episode of the Spa Retailer Podcast, hosted by Megan Kendrick, the owner of SpaRetailer Magazine, Jim Parker, CEO of Ahh!some Water Care, discusses his journey into the hot tub industry, the development and expansion of his family’s business, and the importance of proper water care. Jim shares insights into the origins of Ahh!some Water Care, initially developed by his father and business partner in 1996, emphasizing its core product for eliminating biofilm in pools and hot tubs. Megan and Jim delve into strategies for educating customers about water care and confronting biofilm build-up, the complications of different testing methods, and the evolving needs and expectations of customers. They also touch upon the operational aspects of taking over a family business, including challenges such as accounting and maintaining effective communication and service standards. The episode concludes with discussions on the value of recurring services for dealers and personal anecdotes about favorite shows, highlighting the overlap of personal and professional dynamics.

00:00 Introduction to the SpaRetailer Podcast
01:22 Jim Parker’s Journey into the Hot Tub Industry
03:14 The Growth of Ahh!some Water Care
04:31 Innovations and Product Development
10:06 Understanding Biofilm and Water Care Challenges
15:01 Best Practices for Hot Tub Maintenance
26:42 Convenience and Customer Service in the Hot Tub Industry
31:57 The Amazon Dilemma for Retailers
34:02 The Importance of Convenience in Retail
35:08 Educational Value in Retail Stores
42:13 Transitioning Business Ownership
47:48 Challenges and Surprises of Business Ownership
53:08 The SpaRetailer Five
01:01:36 Conclusion and Podcast Sign-Off