Pool Professionals Podcast

Your team is your biggest competitive advantage. Brian sits down with leading industry expert Seth Ewing, PHTA Senior Director, Member Programs and Services, to discuss practical, field-tested strategies for overcoming labor shortages. Discover how to create clear career pathways, modernize your hiring process, retain top talent through shoulder seasons, and build a positive culture that drives long-term success.

Brian Van Bower sits down with Robert Blanda, Master CBP, CSP, and CPO, president of Mill Bergen Pools, to discuss his journey in the pool industry, the value of continuous education, and the importance of getting involved with industry associations. Bob shares how his company has built a reputation for tackling highly specialized projects, from rooftop pools and indoor aquatic facilities to complex urban installations in New York City, while emphasizing teamwork, career development, and creating clear growth pathways for employees. The conversation also explores the power of collaboration, mentorship, and lifelong learning in building a successful business and strengthening the pool and hot tub industry.

Brian Van Bower sits down with Evan Baard, Master CBP, Senior Landscape Designer and Sales Consultant at Gib-San Pool & Landscape Creations, to discuss how a holistic approach to outdoor living can transform both client experiences and business success. Evan shares how his background in architecture, landscape design, and GENESIS® education has shaped his design philosophy, emphasizing the importance of creating complete outdoor environments rather than simply selling pools. The conversation explores charging for design services, leveraging technology like 3D renderings and AI to improve client communication, maintaining quality through proven systems, and building trust through transparency.

In this episode of the Pool Professionals Podcast, Neil Tarallo, Senior Lecturer at Cornell University and author of The Purposeful Leader, shares practical strategies for growing a stronger pool and spa business. From understanding what truly motivates customers and crafting more effective sales messages to leveraging AI as a business tool and measuring success beyond sales alone, Neil offers actionable insights that can help business owners improve customer relationships, create new opportunities, and drive long-term growth. He also previews the interactive workshops he'll be leading at the upcoming PHTA and GENESIS® MasterMind Summit.

Brian Van Bower sits down with Jeanne Mendelson, Vice President of Education at PHTA, to discuss the evolution of professional education in the pool, spa, and hot tub industry and why investing in leadership and lifelong learning has never been more important. Jeanne shares insights on the growth of GENESIS® education, certification pathways, and the industry's increasing commitment to professionalism, while also providing a preview of the 2026 MasterMind Summit in Phoenix, Arizona. From business-focused presentations and interactive roundtables to networking opportunities and leadership development, this conversation highlights why MasterMind Summit has become a must-attend event for business owners, executives, builders, designers, and service professionals looking to grow their businesses and connect with the industry's top minds.

Sam Pizzo, owner of Avree Custom Pools, shares his journey from designer to leading one of the nation's fastest-growing pool companies. He discusses how the Houston market has evolved, from rising project values to navigating challenging soil conditions and new regulations, while also highlighting the importance of structural engineering and thoughtful planning. Sam dives into the company's shift from referral-based growth to a more balanced marketing strategy that includes social media and digital advertising, and emphasizes the role of customer feedback in continuous improvement. He also shares insights on scaling a business, investing in education like GENESIS®, and expanding into full outdoor living projects, all while maintaining strong processes and a customer-first mindset.

Brian sits down with Colton Gustin, Vice President of AquaTek Pools, to explore how a commitment to education, design, and technical excellence has fueled the company's growth and innovation. Colton shares his journey from working in his family's business to leading a team of over 60 employees, highlighting how GENESIS® education shaped his approach to custom design, hydraulics, and engineering standards.

Brian talks with Lance DiBona, president of Roman Builders, about the importance of proper waterproofing and concrete repair in pool construction. Lance shares practical insights on preventing leaks, using modern materials like chemical grout, and avoiding common industry mistakes such as poor shotcrete application and overuse of hydraulic cement. The conversation highlights how better processes, testing, and education can improve build quality and prevent costly failures.

Brian Van Bower sits down with Alvaro Mendoza, Founder & Executive Chairman of Aquafinity, to explore the evolution of pool technology and the growing role of remote monitoring in both commercial and residential settings. Drawing on over 45 years of experience, Alvaro shares how Aquafinity has expanded from municipal pool chemistry control into advanced systems that monitor and manage everything from pH and chlorine levels to water usage and equipment performance. The conversation highlights how real-time alerts, automation, and data-driven insights are helping pool professionals and homeowners proactively address issues, improve efficiency, and maintain better control, especially for remote or part-time property owners.

Brian sits down with Marina, CEO of urSwim, to discuss the critical importance of water safety and swim education, especially in recognition of National Water Safety Month. Marina shares how urSwim is scaling its mission to teach over one million people to swim through innovative partnerships with residential and commercial pools, focusing on delivering high-quality aquatic staffing rather than owning facilities. The conversation highlights the industry's responsibility to prioritize safety from the earliest stages of pool ownership, the growing demand for services like at-home lessons and lifeguards, and the life-changing impact of teaching both children and adults essential water competency skills.