Scaling UP! H2O

AI won't take your job but knowing how to use it will give you an edge over others who don't. - Beth Ziesenis

Hello Scaling UP! H2O community!

We have a treat for you in this episode! Our favorite nerdy friend, Beth Ziesenis (a.k.a. Your Nerdy Best Friend), is back on the podcast to sprinkle her magic tech dust on all things AI! 🎉

You might have spent hours Googling tech tips or demoing tools to find the perfect solution for your needs—but now you can skip the headache and just ask Beth! She's here to break down complex AI concepts into bite-sized tips that can help you personally and professionally.

AI in Action:

In this episode, Beth shares:

• • Her favorite AI tools for work and personal use.
  • How to harness AI for meeting summaries and transcriptions
  • Insights into AI integration in office software
  • The magic of AI for data analysis in water treatment and scientific research.

Tips for Building AI Guardrails:

Beth knows AI can seem daunting, so she provides guidance on creating a strong AI policy for your workplace. She touches on essential training, data usage guidelines, and the importance of checks and balances to ensure AI serves you effectively and ethically.

Beth's Takeaway:

AI isn't here to take your job; it's here to give you an edge over those who don't adapt. Whether you're an AI skeptic or an enthusiastic early adopter, understanding how AI can enhance your work will give you a leg up!

Ready to Scale UP your AI knowledge? Tune in to this lively episode and let Beth guide you through the exciting world of AI with humor and insight.

Don't miss out—your AI journey starts here!

Cheers,

The Scaling UP! H2O Team

Timestamps

01:00 - Trace Blackmore extends his gratitude to you, our listeners, for helping us reach the top 2.5% of all podcasts worldwide

06:30 - Upcoming Events for Water Treatment Professionals

10:00 - Interview with Your Nerdy Best Friend, Beth Ziesenis

1:00:00 - Drop by Drop with James McDonald

Quotes

"On November 30, 2022, a company called Open AI released ChatGPT. It was the fastest growing platform and sometimes it lies and breaks down because y'all broke it." - Beth Ziesenis

Connect with Beth Ziesenis

Phone: 619.231.9225

Email: [email protected]

Website: yournerdybestfriend.com

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/nerdybff

linkedin.com/company/nerdybff

Your Nerdy Best Friend Blog

Read or Download Beth Ziesenis' Press Release HERE

Links Mentioned

318 Boilers: Handling the Heat and Pressure Like Pros

041 The One with Your Nerdy Best Friend

AI Cheatsheet: Guidelines for AI Use at Work

A to Z AI Tools for Associations and Their Members

The Tackle Your Tech To-Do List Card Deck

Hattie B's Nashville Hot Chicken

James McDonald's Star Trek episodes, VSF Blessings - A Star Trek Fan Production

The Rising Tide Mastermind

Scaling UP! H2O Academy video courses

Submit a Show Idea

AWT (Association of Water Technologies)

Books Mentioned

Futureproof: 9 Rules for Surviving in the Age of AI by Kevin Roose

Future Proof: Reinventing Work in the Age of Acceleration by Diana Wu David

Drop By Drop with James

In today's segment, we are thinking, "What if?" What if you sneak into your customer account, quietly do your service, and sneak out without seeing anyone? What if? You were quick, efficient, got the job done, and got out so you can rush off to your next account. What could be wrong with that? Hmmm. Think about that for just a moment. First, what about safety? If no one knew you were there, what if something happened in the facility. Would they know to look for you? What if you got hurt? Second, does the customer see value in NOT seeing you? I hope not. How does the customer know you actually performed the service instead of just making the report up out of thin air? There are so many positives that come from making your face seen and showing the value of you being there. Visit with the operators and buying influencers. Show that you care and are invested in the success of their water treatment program.

2024 Events for Water Professionals

Check out our Scaling UP! H2O Events Calendar where we've listed every event Water Treaters should be aware of by clicking HERE.

We have the technology to treat any type of water, so instead of focusing on 'water scarcity,' let's talk about 'water abundance'. - Walid Khoury

In the latest episode of the Scaling UP! H2O podcast, we explore how to shift the narrative from "Water Scarcity" to "Water Abundance" with returning guest Walid Khoury, President and CEO of Desalytics. Walid's global perspective on water technology and treatment options provides invaluable insights for water professionals, industry owners, policymakers, and anyone interested in addressing global water challenges.

Here are five strategies Walid provides to guide your thinking from the challenges of water scarcity toward the possibilities of water abundance:

1. 1. Embrace Long-Term Thinking and Planning: When addressing water issues or exploring new opportunities, consider both the mid- and long-term impacts. This approach is especially crucial in developing markets where sustainable growth and solutions are essential.
   2. Collaborate with Private Industry, Politicians, and Individuals to Achieve SDG 6: While one person cannot change the world, thousands working toward a shared goal can. Walid discusses the vital role these groups play in achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 6 (SDG 6), which aims to ensure safe and affordable drinking water, sanitation, and hygiene for all.
   3. Integrate Innovative Technologies: Embrace the innovative aspects of the water industry by implementing modern technologies and techniques. For instance, Hong Kong began using saltwater in toilets in the 1950s due to a scarcity of freshwater. Today, around 80% of toilets in Hong Kong use saltwater for flushing, which conserves fresh drinking water. Industrial water treaters can harness these advancements to enhance their practices and assist clients in achieving a "water positive" status, surpassing the goal of being "water-neutral."
   4. Advocate and Communicate Effectively: Promote water positivity by using language that raises awareness of the options available. Building connections and collaborating with local partners can help address local water challenges more effectively.
   5. Expand Your Global Understanding: Walid encourages industrial water treaters to expand their knowledge and experience beyond familiar markets by attending international water conferences and exploring global opportunities.

By tuning in to this one-hour episode, you will gain actionable insights and practical knowledge on how to contribute to water abundance, reshape water management strategies, and make a positive impact on both local and global scales. Walid's involvement in the Water Positive Think Tank and his dedication to SDG 6 offers a roadmap for those looking to advance their careers and make a meaningful difference in the water industry.

Listen to "364 Water Abundance: A Global Perspective on Water Technology and Treatment Options" and discover how you can be part of the change toward a more sustainable and water-efficient future. Don't miss this opportunity to hear from one of the industry's most innovative and influential voices!

Timestamps

01:00 - Trace Blackmore invites you to participate in the Global 6K for Water

05:00 - Upcoming Events for Water Treatment Professionals

7:30 - Get to know Walid Khoury of Desalytics

22:00 - Interview with Walid Khoury on Water Abundance

57:40 - Drop by Drop with James McDonald

Quotes with interview timestamps:

"My biggest frustration in our industry is that we use the word 'water scarcity', but in today's age we have the technology to treat any type of water, so instead of water scarcity we should be talking about 'water abundance'." - Walid Khoury

"We need to shift the narrative: We have an abundance of water. The question is, how can we effectively use and consume it locally rather than sourcing it from afar?" - Walid Khoury

"We have access to a wealth of technologies; the key is in applying them effectively. This makes it an exceptional time to be in the water industry." - Walid Khoury

Connect with Walid Khoury:

Phone: +971 56 5362147

Email: [email protected]

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/walidkhoury

linkedin.com/company/desalytics

Think Tank: https://www.linkedin.com/company/water_positive/

Vlog: walidkhoury.com

Links Mentioned

Scaling UP! H2O's Free Legionella Resources Page

Upcoming Events for Water Professionals

May 18, 2024 The Global 6K for water

Episode 230 with Walid Khoury

2024 WEFTEC conference

The Rising Tide Mastermind

Scaling UP! H2O Academy video courses

Tools Mentioned

NALCO Water Handbook

ChatGPT

Complexity.AI

Drop By Drop with James

Do you know what I like to do sometimes? Do you? I like to read the summary of methods and the interferences for water testing. I do! You should hang out at parties with me, I'm a real riot. Anyway, there is a LOT to be learned by just reading these two sections of a test procedure. For example, did you know the FerroVer method for Total Iron "converts all soluble iron and most insoluble forms of iron in the sample to soluble ferrous iron?" Then the soluble ferrous iron reacts with 1-10 phenanthroline indicator to form an orange color in proportion to the concentration of iron in the sample? The summary said it converts "most insoluble forms of iron," so right away, I could imagine exceptions to this caveat. Reading the interferences for the Total Iron test, I see that insoluble iron oxides in the sample may require a digestion to make them soluble. I also notice that molybdate at 50 mg/L has no effect on results, but what about over 50 mg/L? That's where the FerroMo Method for Total Iron comes in. I learned all of that by just reading those two little sections of the test procedure. What else is out there waiting to be learned?

2024 Events for Water Professionals

Check out our Scaling UP! H2O Events Calendar where we've listed every event Water Treaters should be aware of by clicking HERE.

"Dogs and prospects can smell fear." - Casey Brown

Are you struggling with pricing your products and services confidently? Do you fear presenting proposals to clients and dealing with objections? Are you unsure how to have effective conversations around price increases?

If these questions sound familiar, you're going to love today's episode featuring Casey Brown, founder of Boost Pricing. Boost Pricing has the singular goal of helping organizations get paid well for their excellence, and in this informative conversation, Casey shares invaluable insights on how to elevate your pricing game and communicate your value effectively to your customers.

Sales is challenging, and as someone who's been in the industry, you know how tough it can be. There's pressure to be personable, negotiate well, and ask the right questions, yet proposals still get rejected. So, how do you get paid well for your company's superior products and services?

In this episode, Casey provides practical tips, strategies, and tactics to boost your pricing confidence and navigate price negotiations successfully. Learn how to deal with customers who focus solely on price and how to differentiate your value proposition effectively.

Casey emphasizes the importance of handling client objections well, sharing "The best answer to an objection isn't an answer at all, it's a question. I think questions are a salesperson's superpower and they are largely underused in the price portion and the negotiation process." She goes on to say "The root of confidence is value. You need to truly understand how your products and service are of value to your customer."

By tuning in, you'll gain insights on:

• • • Approaching conversations about pricing with confidence and clarity.
    • Understanding when and how to offer tiered packages to customers.
    • Communicating the value of your offerings to clients to justify your prices.
    • Navigating tricky situations like price match requests and objections.

Casey's wisdom on pricing and negotiation will empower you to become more confident in your sales approach. Don't miss out on this educational discussion!

Timestamps

01:00 - Trace Blackmore invites you to participate in the Global 6K

07:00 - Interview with Casey Brown founder of Pricing Boost

1:01:30 - Lightning round questions

1:10:00 - Drop by Drop With James McDonald

Key Quotes from Casey Brown

"I think sales is the hardest job in a company. Selling is an incredibly hard profession." - Casey Brown

"Dogs and prospects can smell fear." - Casey Brown

"The root of confidence is value. You need to truly understand how your products and services are of value to your customer." - Casey Brown

"'No' is the most powerful word in a sales person's vocabulary, and often the most underused." - Casey Brown

"A price match request is an objective statement of preference from the customer for your company." - Casey Brown

Connect with Casey Brown

Phone: 614.679.7999

Email: [email protected]

Website: boostpricing.com

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/caseybrownboost/

linkedin.com/company/boostpricing/

Read or Download Casey Brown's Press Release HERE

Read or Download Casey Brown's Discussion Guide HERE

Links Mentioned

The Rising Tide Mastermind

Scaling UP! H2O Academy video courses

Submit a Show Idea

AWT (Association of Water Technologies)

Books Mentioned

Outlive: The Science and Art of Longevity by Peter Attia MD

Make The Noise Go Away: The Power Of An Effective Second-In-Command by Larry G. Linne

10x Is Easier Than 2x by Dan Sullivan

Drop By Drop with James

In today's segment, we're thinking about a line I read in an article called "AWT Recommendations and Guidelines for Corrosion Coupons in Cooling Systems" found under Resources in the Members-Only section of the Association of Water Technologies website. This section of the article was discussing the proper order of installation for corrosion coupons. The line said, "In reality, if an appropriate water treatment program is in place, the actual coupon order will make little or no difference to the results."

That line made my brain stop for a minute. The actual order will make little or no difference to results if an appropriate water treatment program is in place? Hold up! I've had the galvanic series drilled into my head for corrosion coupons! The most active or least noble metal or alloy must be placed first…the farthest upstream. What kind of crazy talk is this?

Of course, in a perfect world, we wouldn't do a lot of things. The article goes on to explain further, though. It says, "There is an argument for limiting the number of factors to be considered when analyzing results, and if the coupons are installed according to the galvanic series, any high loss rates will not be blamed on or associated with galvanic differences (regardless of whether these could our could not impact results)."

So to keep things logical and free of noise that may only confuse the issue, we should continue to install corrosion coupons according to the galvanic series, regardless of how good our water treatment program is. Where else do we apply this logic in our day-to-day industrial water lives? Where else do we try to eliminate variables so we can see the true problems? Do we mix and match our sample bottles or do we reserve select ones for higher-purity samples and others for higher-conductivity samples? Do we test for conductivities from low to high, vice versa, or a random mix? That's some food for thought, right there. Eliminating variables.

2024 Events for Water Professionals

Check out our Scaling UP! H2O Events Calendar where we've listed every event Water Treaters should be aware of by clicking HERE.

"Achieving a well with reliable water quality and supply requires a significant amount of effort and work" - Mike Taraszki

In this engaging episode of Scaling UP! H2O, hydrogeologist Mike Taraszki delves into California's Process Memo 97-005, a key resource for direct potable water use from extremely impaired sources. If you're eager to learn about the criteria and steps outlined in Process Memo 97-005 and how to keep your water permits current, this episode provides all the details you need.

Mike examines the nationwide impact of 97-005 on potable water and shares his expertise in hydrogeologic principles for environmental investigation and remediation projects. He also highlights trends in potable groundwater, including managing PFAS, water recycling, desalination, and the removal of contaminants and microplastics.

Offering practical guidance on the evolving landscape of water treatment technologies, Mike emphasizes the importance of consistent monitoring and adapting treatment trends to address emerging contaminants. His insights equip listeners with a comprehensive understanding of today's water challenges.

"Putting a well in the ground and getting as much water as you want anywhere is just not reasonable, whether it's from a water supply or quality standpoint," Mike notes. He stresses, "We keep discovering new contaminants, and our water supply options are becoming more limited and constrained."

Join Trace and Mike for a captivating discussion that will deepen your understanding of the complexities and potential of groundwater management. Don't miss this chance to expand your knowledge and stay ahead in the dynamic world of water treatment in under an hour!

Timestamps

01:00 - Trace Blackmore invites you to solve the Global Water Crisis by joining the Global 6K for Water this year. Learn more at ScalingUpH2O.com/6K

04:10 - Upcoming Events for Water Treatment Professionals

10:00 - Interview with Mike Taraszki, passionate hydrogeologist about Process Memo 97-005

45:00 - You never know the ripple effect when you share about your water career with others

52:00- Drop by Drop With James McDonald

Connect with Mike Taraszki

Phone: 510.368.4549

Email: [email protected]

Website: www.wsp.com

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/michaeltaraszki/

linkedin.com/company/wsp/

Proces Memo 97-005 Policy Resources

Process Memo 97-005-R2020

Process Memo 97-005-R2020 User Guide

Applicability of Process Memorandum 97-005 Examples of Checklists

Links Mentioned

Global 6K For Water

347 Ripple Effect: How Utah's Water Strategies Impact Us All

356 Unlocking the Future: Collaborative Water Management

National Groundwater Association

California's Groundwater Resources Association

(CLU-IN) Contaminated Site Clean-Up Information

(ITRC) Interstate Technology and Regulatory Council

Audible

The Rising Tide Mastermind

Scaling UP! H2O Academy video courses

Submit a Show Idea

Drop By Drop with James

In today's segment, I have a "what if" for you. What if the cooling tower's blowdown stopped flowing? There is no more blowdown going down the drain. Period. First, what could cause this to happen? What could cause a valve to fail closed? What could block the blowdown line? What setting could have been changed in the controller? Second, what would be the impact upon the cooling tower system next? Would the impact be quick or slow? What would the water start to look like? What data in the cooling water system would start to change and in what direction? How could you have detected this problem early and been alerted that action was required?

2024 Events for Water Professionals

Check out our Scaling UP! H2O Events Calendar where we've listed every event Water Treaters should be aware of by clicking HERE or using the dropdown menu.

"I have never regretted having too much data when collecting a sample." - Trace Blackmore

In this insightful episode of Scaling UP! H2O, join your host Trace Blackmore as he helps water professionals scale up their water testing knowledge, addressing listener questions and providing invaluable expertise for water treatment professionals.

Water testing stands as a cornerstone of effective water treatment, and Trace serves as your guide through this vital terrain. With a wealth of expertise, he addresses listener questions, offering invaluable insights to elevate the practices of water treatment professionals.

Trace's guidance spans essential topics, from analyzing water samples to deciphering past data and ensuring the precision of collected samples. His pragmatic approach unveils indispensable tips for securing quality samples, choosing suitable tests for labs, and mastering sample preparation techniques.

Listeners will find clarity on concepts such as grab and composite samples, quantitative versus qualitative analysis, and the pivotal role of lab procedures in securing accurate results. Trace's exploration extends to the comparison between tests conducted with test kits versus labs, alongside illuminating insights into specialized tests like Legionella testing and titration manipulation.

Through engaging dialogue and expert advice, Trace underscores the significance of meticulous data collection and adherence to lab protocols. This episode serves as a catalyst for water professionals, empowering them to refine their testing methodologies and optimize water treatment strategies.

Join Trace Blackmore on this enlightening expedition into the realm of water testing, where every lesson learned enhances practical expertise, and every insight gained fuels professional growth. Tune in to Scaling UP! H2O, and let's scale up our knowledge together.

Timestamps

01:00 - Upcoming Events for Water Treatment Professionals

08:00 - Trace Blackmore answers listener questions about Testing on this informative Pinks and Blues episode

40:00 - Drop by Drop With James McDonald

Quotes

"It's not just collecting samples, it's about collecting data around those samples. I always take a picture of what I'm taking the scale off of and what is around it. I reference the photos so that when I get the report back, I can do more analysis." - Trace Blackmore

"I have never regretted having too much data when collecting a sample." - Trace Blackmore

"Collect all the data that you can, when you can." - Trace Blackmore

"Learn what your lab needs from you before sending them your samples, and follow your lab's procedures. The procedures are there to help you." - Trace Blackmore

Connect with Scaling UP! H2O

Email Producer: [email protected]

Submit a show idea: Submit a Show Idea

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/traceblackmore/

YouTube: @ScalingUpH2O

Links Mentioned

Global 6K for Water

244 The One About Water Treaters For Clean Water (with Steve Spear)

294 The One About Getting Involved so the Profession Can Grow (with John A. Mullen)

348 Credentials and Codes: Plumbing Strategies Against Legionella (with Christoph Lohr)

Blackmore Enterprises, Inc. Testing Services

Scaling UP! H2O's Legionella Resources Page

The Rising Tide Mastermind

Scaling UP! H2O Academy video courses

Submit a Show Idea

AWT (Association of Water Technologies)

Drop By Drop with James

In today's segment, I have another challenge for you. Today's challenge is…draw a process flow diagram for your water systems. Having a good process flow diagram will help both you and your customer. The exercise may correct some assumptions you have or open your eyes to challenges you never knew existed.

Be sure to include chemical feed points, water meters, blowdown lines, valves, waste streams, pretreatment equipment, pretreatment equipment waste streams, boilers, cooling towers, chillers, closed loops, dead legs, pressure and temperature gauge locations, pH probes, controllers, heat exchangers, makeup lines, outfalls, and whatever else you may run across. Feel free to make notes about frequency of equipment rotation, flow rates, temperatures, pressures, etc.

Lastly, hand-drawn diagrams can be just fine because ANY process flow diagram has got to be better than NO process flow diagram, right? No need to get fancy if that will just slow you down and prevent you from making process flow diagrams in the first place.

2024 Events for Water Professionals

Check out our Scaling UP! H2O Events Calendar where we've listed every event Water Treaters should be aware of by clicking HERE or using the dropdown menu.

Ready to uncover how to win RFPs, boost profits, and make a tangible positive impact – all while championing sustainability in your industry? Discover how to demystify sustainability and align your company's practices with environmental, social, and economic goals in the latest episode of Scaling UP! H2O. Host Trace Blackmore sits down with Andy Reimink, CEO of HOH Water Technology, Inc., to explore practical strategies for water professionals to embrace sustainability.

Learn how small changes in energy efficiency, understanding sustainability scopes, and having sustainability data on hand can give your company a competitive edge in RFPs. Discover the economic benefits of environmental stewardship, including tax advantages and improved ROI.

With insights from Andy's presentation at the AWT convention, uncover actionable tips for retaining younger employees by showcasing your company's positive impact on the world. Whether you're a seasoned professional or new to the industry, this episode offers valuable tools to enhance your company's sustainability outlook and drive long-term success.

Join the conversation and discover how sustainability isn't just a buzzword—it's a pathway to a more resilient and prosperous future for your company and the planet. Tune in now to start making a difference!

Timestamps

01:00 - Earth Day 2024 and Upcoming Events for Water Treatment Professionals

9:00 - Interview with Andy Reimink, Chief Executive Officer at HOH Water Technology

01:03:45 - Drop by Drop With James McDonald

Quotes

"Our clients, whether we know it or not, care about our sustainability because it affects their bottomline or reputation." - Andy Reimink

"Publicly traded companies have RFPs (Request for Proposal), but it's going to become commonplace for smaller water treatment companies. I expect it to grow in intensity." - Andy Reimink

"Data centers have a lot of pressure to be as sustainable as possible." - Andy Reimink

Connect with Andy Reimink

Phone: 616.901.9769

Email: [email protected]

Website: hohwatertechnology.com

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/andy-reimink-a7711711/

linkedin.com/company/h-o-h-water-technology-inc-/

Links Mentioned

EarthDay.org

What are Scopes 1, 2 and 3 of Carbon Emissions?

LEED Exam Preparation and Continuing Education

Sense Energy Monitoring System

TED TALK: (how to wash and dry your hands) How to use one paper towel | Joe Smith

122 The One with Reid Hutchison

123 The Other One with Reid Hutchison

127 The One With Tom Hutchison

236 The One Where We Talk About Waters Treaters Changing The World

287 The One About How To Create Aligned Employee Engagement

358 Safety First: Practical Tips, Big Results in Water Treatment

The Rising Tide Mastermind

Scaling UP! H2O Academy video courses

AWT (Association of Water Technologies)

Books Mentioned

Never Split The Difference by Chris Voss

Greenlights by Matthew McConaughey

The Dream Manager: Achieve Results Beyond Your Dreams by Helping Your Employees Fulfill Theirs by Matthew Kelly

The Psychology of Money: Timeless lessons on wealth, greed, and happiness by Morgan Housel

Drop By Drop with James

In today's episode, we're asking ourself, "What If?" What if the acid feed stops working on a cooling tower? What happens if suddenly there is no acid being fed to a cooling tower on an acid-control program? Does something happen immediately? Does something happen gradually? Where within the system could this something happen? How long could this lack of acid feed occur before anyone would find out? How could you determine remotely that the acid feed had stopped working? What alarms could be setup? Once the problem has been determined, should the acid feed be turned back on immediately? Could turning the acid feed back on immediately cause any problems within the system? What should be communicated to the end user about this occurrence? What could be done to prevent it from happening again? Should blowdown be adjusted during the response to the lack of acid feed? How might the other water treatment chemicals be impacted due to the lack of acid?

A cooling tower's water treatment program is an expertly-balanced chemistry. If one part is negatively impacted, it may very well impact the other parts of the chemistry as well. There's a lot to think about when just one part goes wrong. Knowing the root cause will help prevent you from chasing your tail when trying to get the program back under control.

2024 Events for Water Professionals

Check out our Scaling UP! H2O Events Calendar where we've listed every event Water Treaters should be aware of by clicking HERE or using the dropdown menu.

Visualization helps water professionals better understand equipment, processes, and problem-solving techniques

Often, as water professionals, we breeze past the intricate inner workings of the equipment we handle, missing out on valuable insights that could enhance our understanding and effectiveness.

But what if we took a moment to visualize what's happening inside that cooling tower? Through the simple act of visualization, we can unlock a whole new perspective on the systems we work with, gaining profound insights into their operation.

Step into the fascinating world of industrial water treatment with host Trace Blackmore and special lab partner, James McDonald as they embark on a remarkable journey through the heart of a cooling tower. Shrinking down into water molecules, they vividly visualize the processes at play, offering a captivating glimpse into the complex world of water treatment.

James McDonald, Director of Technology & Marketing at Chem-Aqua, founder of Industrial Water Week, and weekly contributor to the Scaling UP! H2O podcast, shares his profound insights into the importance of creativity and visualization in engineering. By harnessing these tools, water professionals can deepen their understanding, sharpen their problem-solving skills, and foster better communication within the industry.

Join us for this enlightening discussion and discover how visualization techniques can revolutionize your approach to industrial water treatment. Let's unlock the full potential of our creativity and imagination, together shaping a brighter future for water professionals everywhere.

Timestamps

01:00 - Trace Blackmore shares fun facts about the IRS during this tax return season

05:30 - Upcoming Events for Water Treatment Professionals

13:30 - Interview with James McDonald, CWT, about the importance of visualizing systems

33:09 - Shrinking down and going inside a cooling tower

01:06:00 - Drop by Drop With James McDonald

01:08:00 - The power of visualization

Quotes

"I like doing visual exercises because it teaches me the gaps in my knowledge so I can learn about those ideas." - James McDonald

"It serves as an excellent learning tool, offering a dynamic approach to problem-solving by providing a visual representation of the situation." - James McDonald

Connect with Scaling UP! H2O

Email Producer: [email protected]

Submit a show idea: Submit a Show Idea

LinkedIn: in/traceblackmore/

YouTube: @ScalingUpH2O

Connect with James McDonald

Website: www.chemaqua.com

Industrial Water Week: www.industrialwaterscience.com

Read James' Industrial Water Week Jokes and Comics at www.industrialwaterscience.com/fun

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/james-mcdonald-pe

www.linkedin.com/company/chem-aqua

Read or Download James McDonald's Press Release HERE

Links Mentioned

How Cooling Towers Operate

Water Softener Regeneration Process

Understanding Cycles of Concentration

Global 6K for water

Episode 21 The One with James McDonald

Episode 49 The One with James McDonald, Again

Episode 113 Pinks and Blues (with James McDonald)

Episode 290 The One About Making Time For What Matters Most (with James McDonald)

Episode 291 The One About Nitrite (with James McDonald)

Episode 31 The One with Mark Lewis

Episode 34 The Other One With Mark Lewis, CWT

Episode 112 The One Where Trace Is Interviewed By Mark Lewis

Industrial Water Week Resources

Water Cake Recipe

Episode 161 Trace shared a story about the koi fish in the cooling tower

Sharknado Series

Die Hard Series

Criminal Minds

The Rising Tide Mastermind

AWT (Association of Water Technologies)

Drop By Drop with James

Today we're thinking about safety. Working around steam, hot water, high pressures, moving parts, confined spaces, hazardous chemicals, pathogenic organisms, extreme environments, deep water, and even people, there are hundreds of ways we could get hurt or worse every single day. Of course, there are guidelines, regulations, laws, safety programs, engineering controls, training, and so forth to help keep us safe, but the ultimate thing in charge of our safety day to day is ourselves. If we don't follow the rules, learn from the trainings, are unaware of our surroundings, and/or circumvent engineering controls, we are much more likely to get hurt. So be both smart and aware when you are performing your industrial water treatment duties. You're probably NOT the only one relying upon you returning home safely.

A personal example of when I encountered an unsafe condition is from when I was brand new in industrial water treatment and was being trained on boiler inspections. My manager and I were just about to enter the mud drum of a watertube boiler when steam started coming out of the manhole. My manager and the plant manager both looked at each other and were a little white in the face. An operator had blowndown one of the nearby boilers, and steam had backed up into the one we were literally just about to enter. If we had climbed in just a little sooner, we could have suffered steam burns and worse. Neither lockout/tagout nor proper communication had been conducted. Lessons were learned quickly very early in my career.

I've heard stories of people dying in confined spaces due to the space being filled with nitrogen or argon. Proper confined space entry procedures had neither been established nor conducted. I've heard stories about water hammer blowing elbows, valves, etc. apart and injuring people. I once had a colleague who had live steam blown inside his work boot. Never have I ever seen blisters that big in my life. I'm sure too many of you may have scary stories to tell as well.

So please, today and every day, think about the safety of yourself and those around you. Your safety matters to you, your family, your coworkers, and your colleagues. Your safety matters to both Trace and me as well.

2024 Events for Water Professionals

Check out our Scaling UP! H2O Events Calendar where we've listed every event Water Treaters should be aware of by clicking HERE or using the dropdown menu.

Did you know that integrating safety practices into your organization's culture can lead to significant improvements in employee engagement and overall performance?

Step into the world of safety excellence alongside two industry leaders, Michael Highum and Reid Hutchison, in this enriching episode of the Scaling UP! H2O Podcast. As seasoned experts in their respective fields, Michael and Reid bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to the table, making this conversation a must-listen for anyone seeking to enhance their understanding of safety practices in the water treatment industry.

With over two decades of experience in insurance, Michael Highum is no stranger to the intricacies of risk management. As a partner at McGowan Insurance Group, he has played a pivotal role in providing businesses with tailored insurance solutions and strategic risk management advice. His insights into the importance of leading by example and fostering a culture of safety within organizations are invaluable.

Reid Hutchison, the COO of HOH Water Technology, Inc., carries on a proud family legacy in the water treatment sector. With a lineage that spans three generations, Reid brings a deep understanding of the industry's nuances and challenges. His emphasis on proactive safety measures, team engagement, and the integration of safety practices into organizational culture resonates throughout the episode.

In this educational and uplifting discussion, Michael and Reid share practical tips, real-life anecdotes, and actionable strategies for enhancing safety practices in water treatment facilities. From the significance of starting small and being proactive to the crucial role of continual improvement, listeners will gain valuable insights into building a robust safety culture that safeguards businesses and empowers teams.

Whether you're a seasoned professional or a newcomer to the industry, this episode offers a wealth of knowledge and inspiration to help you scale up your safety game. Join Michael Highum and Reid Hutchison on this enlightening journey towards safety excellence and discover how you can create a safer, more resilient future for your organization.

Tune in now to Scaling UP! H2O Podcast and embark on your path to safety success with insights from two industry expert guides!

Timestamps

00:01 - Trace Blackmore shares what it means to be a CWT and where to find FREE Industrial Water Week and Legionella Resources

04:00- Upcoming Events for Water Treatment Professionals

08:00 - Introducing returning guests Michael Highum and Reid Hutchison

14:40 - Interview with Michael Highum and Reid Hutchison on the Water Treater's Blindspot, Safety

59:00 - Drop by Drop With James McDonald

Quotes

"Safety isn't compliance, an afterthought, or a box you check, you need to find ways to make it relevant to the team to get the attention and engagement it deserves." - Reid Hutchison

"If you're excited about growing your business, begin to put some thought into how you're going to grow the culture around safety in your company. As you grow and scale whatever vulnerabilities, weaknesses, or issues grow as well." - Reid Hutchison

"Talk about the WHY - it's about truly developing a team where you care about each other. Employees watch leadership and when they see leaders take initiative on wanting to protect the team, it shows what the leadership cares about - safety. Safely for each and every person and ensuring they go home safely as possible." - Michael Highum

"Safety. It takes time and effort, but you've got to start somewhere. The need is not going away. There's no better time than today to start the safety process. It's not just employee safety, it's customer site issues, employee injury, vehicles - it's up to leadership to enable and empower people." - Michael Highum

"Lead by example. No matter where you are in the organization, you are responsible and accountable to each other." - Michael Highum

Connect with Michael Highum

Phone: 317.490.2322

Email: [email protected]

Website: www.mcgowaninsgrp.com

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/michaelhighum

www.linkedin.com/company/mcgowan-insurance-group

Connect with Reid Hutchison

Phone: 847.702.1708

Email: [email protected]

Website: hohwatertechnology.com

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/reid-h-3a329431

www.linkedin.com/company/h-o-h-water-technology-inc-

Links Mentioned

CWT Prep Course

Industrial Water Week Resources

Legionella Resources Page

025 The One On Insurance with Mike

107 Day 2 Of Industrial Water Week (Boilers) with Reid

107 Day 5 Of Industrial Water Week (Careers) with Mike

122 The One with Reid Hutchison

123 The Other One with Reid Hutchison

236 The One Where We Talk About Waters Treaters Changing The World with Reid

287 The One About How To Create Aligned Employee Engagement with Reid

McGowan - Advisory & Compliance Services

McGowan - Risk Solutions

How Alcoa quintupled their revenue by focusing on worker safety

The Rising Tide Mastermind

Scaling UP! H2O Academy video courses

Submit a Show Idea

Books Mentioned

The Power of Habit by Charles Duhigg

Drop By Drop with James

Today's segment is a "What If" and the topic is about boiler bottom blowdown. What if an operator opens and closes the boiler bottom blowdown valves in the wrong order? What will be the impact? Will this impact be felt immediately or long term? What is the logic of why boiler bottom blowdown valves are opened and closed in a certain order? Is there logic? Is there any additional wear and tear on the valves based upon the order opened? What if a valve starts to leak through and needs to be repaired? Which valve would be easier to repair possibly without requiring the boiler to be taken offline? Are the bottom blowdown valves of the same design or different design? Why?

The boiler manufacturer's operations manual should be followed when determining the proper order to open and close the bottom blowdown valves, of course, but if the boiler operator asked you, would you know how to answer?

2024 Events for Water Professionals

Check out our Scaling UP! H2O Events Calendar where we've listed every event Water Treaters should be aware of by clicking HERE or using the dropdown menu.

How does a high school dropout go on to earn a Ph.D. from the University Of Iowa and become the host of one of Apple Podcast's Top 15 shows on Management? Dr. Andrew Temte's mission is to Teach, Coach, Mentor, and Inspire, and today, the Scaling UP! H2O podcast is honored to feature him.

In this transformative interview, Andrew discusses the foundational elements of building company culture, emphasizing that it starts with leadership. He shares valuable insights on why companies should prioritize defining their purpose before diving into marketing strategies. Additionally, Andrew explores the concept of leadership as stewardship and offers guidance on identifying core values while ensuring that everyone's voice is heard and valued.

Discover the Value of People in Business: Emphasizing the importance of supporting and empowering employees, the conversation delves into how people are the most valuable asset in any organization. The need for leaders to embrace diversity of thought and opinion to create a culture where every voice is valued is highlighted.

Explore Leadership Mindset: The transition from directive to non-directive leadership styles is discussed, emphasizing the importance of fostering an environment where diverse perspectives are welcomed and respected.

Embrace a Stewardship Mindset: Advocating for adopting a stewardship mindset as a leader, the discussion focuses on the long-term success of both the business and its people, rather than personal power or ego.

Learn about Compassionate Leadership: The concept of compassionate leadership is explored, which involves empathizing with employees and taking proactive steps to address their needs and concerns.

Key Takeaway: Discover the importance of purpose and adopting a stewardship mindset, especially in cross-generational leadership, as highlighted in this insightful conversation.

Everyone knows what it's like to work for a horrible boss, but what could your life look like if you had a great boss - one who viewed you as the greatest asset in the company, ensured everyone's voice was heard, and lived out the company values in their daily lives. A leader with empathy is what every team wants.

If you're eager to enhance your leadership skills and empower yourself and your team in the water industry, join us to uncover essential insights on making your team flourish, regardless of the challenges you may face.

Timestamps

01:00 - Trace Blackmore welcomes you to the second quarter of 2024, a good time to review your goals and make a plan for the next quarter

07:00 - The Hang is coming up April 11, 2024 and Upcoming Events for Water Treatment Professionals

12:30 - Interview with Dr. Andrew Temte

48:00 - Lightning round questions

59:00 - Drop by Drop With James McDonald

Quotes

"Values and behaviors go together like peanut butter and jelly. Values are the nouns that you are creating for the overall structure of what you want your business to be. Behaviors are the verbs, they are the actions, they are the 'how' we should show up each day in the business. Don't shy away from that work, engage in that work, and pay it the attention that it's due." - Dr. Andrew Temte

"Far too many leaders leave the business world and take all of their accumulated knowledge with them; maybe it gets disseminated to a small group of folks, maybe they do a little teaching and coaching on the side. I wanted to do something much bigger than that. I wanted to reach a much larger potential audience." - Dr. Andrew Temte

"Go to the Gemba - where the work happens and how teams interact. Listen to the people who interact with your customers. Set your ego aside and go to where the work happens, and listen to where the work is going on." - Dr. Andrew Temte

"As a leader, you need to create clarity. Clarity for everybody involved: your customers, your vendors, your people, your investors, your stakeholders." - Dr. Andrew Temte

"As a compassionate leader, you need to hear the successes and the pain points across the organization." - Dr. Andrew Temte

"Compassionate leadership is Empathy + Willingness and the ability to do something about it. You are putting yourself into the shoes of your people, and you are pledging to make their work better." - Dr. Andrew Temte

Connect with Andrew Temte

Phone: 608.385.9050

Email: [email protected]

Website: www.andrewtemte.com

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/atemte

Links Mentioned

Skills Owl

Add a link to Andy's podcast show, The Balancing Act Podcast

Listen to Episode 109 of The Balancing Act Podcast with Trace Blackmore HERE

Podify

Episode 4 with Charlie Cichetti

The Rising Tide Mastermind

Scaling UP! H2O Academy video courses

Submit a Show Idea

AWT (Association of Water Technologies)

Books Mentioned

The Balanced Business: Building Organizational Trust and Accountability through Smooth Workflows by Andrew Temte

Balancing Act: Teach Coach Mentor Inspire by Andrew Temte

The 12 Week Year: Get More Done in 12 Weeks than Others Do in 12 Months by Brian P. Moran and Michael Lennington

What the Heck Is EOS? by Gino Wickman and Tom Bouwer

Traction: Get a Grip on Your Business by Gino Wickman

Unmanaged: Master the Magic of Creating Empowered and Happy Organizations by Jack Skeels

The NEW ROI: Return on Individuals by Dave Bookbinder

The People Side of Lean Thinking by Robert Brown

2024 Events for Water Professionals

Check out our Scaling UP! H2O Events Calendar where we've listed every event Water Treaters should be aware of by clicking HERE or using the dropdown menu.

Drop By Drop with James

Today's topic is Reverse Osmosis data normalization. Over time, RO membrane performance changes. The quality and quantity of permeate water produced and the energy required to produce it will vary. In Episode 339, Jane Kucera, author of the book "Reverse Osmosis," said, "There are six things that affect membrane performance: fouling, scaling, membrane degradation, temperature, pressure, and concentration."

I really like that succinct list: fouling, scaling, membrane degradation, temperature, pressure, and concentration. The impacts of each of these are interrelated and complex. Changes in one of them can either hide or exasperate the effects of another. For example, dropping temperature may reduce the permeate flow rate while increasing pressure may increase it, thus canceling out the effects of each. This makes it next to impossible to determine the true performance of an RO system by simply looking at the raw data.

So, what's the solution? If we lived in the world of scifi, we could take today's RO membranes, put them into a time machine, activate the flux capacitor like in "Back to the Future," travel back in time, and install those membranes in the RO machine at the same time they were started up, replaced, or even cleaned so you could measure how they would perform under the exact same conditions as the baseline. The same pressure, same temperature, and same water concentration. I keep saying the word "same," but that is key here. How would today's membranes perform in yesterday's machine under the same baseline conditions? Then you could eliminate the influences of changes in temperature, pressure, and concentration and figure out the real impacts of fouling, scaling, and membrane degradation. Simple, right? Now where did we put that flux capacitor? It's got to be around here somewhere. Oh, wait. Flux capacitors don't actually exist yet. Dang it! Now what?

That's where normalization comes into play. Normalization is a fancy way of saying you are going to MATHEMATICALLY take those membranes back in time and adjust for changes in temperature, pressure, and concentration. This will allow you to make an apples-to-apples comparison of permeate flows by calculating the normalized permeate flow (NPF) of today to compare to the permeate flow at the baseline conditions. The same goes for normalized pressure differential (NPD) and normalized salt rejection (NSR).

Your next logical question may be, "Well, where do I get these miraculous normalization equations?" While there are ASTM standards for such calculations, your easiest route is probably to visit your RO membrane manufacturer's website to download their normalization tool. It may be as simple as an Excel worksheet. If you manage an RO system, it is worth your time to learn how to use these tools to normalize your RO data so you know when it is time to clean the membranes and to find problems as they occur.

Collaborate strategically, embrace AI innovations, and champion data access, and scale up your knowledge to conquer industry challenges. - Dragan Savić FREng

On this episode of Scaling UP! H2O, we're diving into the future of water management with our distinguished guest, Dragan Savić FREng, the CEO of and Professor of Hydroinformatics at the KWR Water Research Institute. With over 30 years of experience in numerical optimization and AI tools, Dragan Savić has been a driving force in reshaping the water sector. As an engineer and the leader of KWR, he's at the forefront of collaborative efforts, bringing together computer scientists, water technologists, and PhD students to tackle real-world water challenges.

What you'll learn:

Collaborative Mastery: In this episode, learn the first secret of successful water professionals – collaboration. Dragan Savić shares how collaborating with diverse experts, including computer scientists and environmentalists, can unleash your collaborative superpower. Be the hero who bridges gaps and solves water industry challenges through the strength of working on challenging problems together.

AI Innovations: Explore how numerical optimization and AI tools like evolutionary computing and genetic algorithms can be your allies in designing resilient water systems for the future. As a Professor of Hydroinformatics, Dragan unveils his in-depth knowledge of AI tools, including numerical optimization, evolutionary computing, and genetic algorithms. Learn how these technologies have been harnessed to solve real-world challenges, offering practical insights for professionals navigating the complexities of water infrastructure.

Championing Data Access: Having access to all the data, not part of it, leads to better decisions. It's time to advance data democratization, and remove data silos that so frequently exist within water utilities. Gain insights into the digital transformation of data, empowering professionals to access and utilize information efficiently. The future of water is data platforms to house all the data to make things better and avoid duplication which decreases costs and gives everyone involved with the water the ability to analyze and utilize the data.

Tune in to Scaling UP! H2O and embark on a transformative adventure with Dragan Savić. Remember, water heroes collaborate strategically, embrace AI innovations, and champion data access and scale up your knowledge to conquer industry challenges.

Timestamps

01:00 - Trace Blackmore invites you to submit a show idea

03:45 - Upcoming Events for Water Treatment Professionals

14:30 - Drop by Drop With James McDonald

19:00 - Interview with Dragan Savić FREng

Quotes

"Data needs to be accessible and understandable to everyone in the same company. With data platforms to host, the data you avoid duplication, doing the same work or collecting the same data, so you get cost efficiency and also the ability to analyze and utilize more of that data." - Dragan Savić

"The water industry is conscious about cyber security. Water engineers are looking at what could go wrong." - Dragan Savić

"We have to work with younger generations because those are the ones that will grow through the ranks and become the next experts, professors, or people who are implementing the new scheme." Dragan Savić

Connect with Dragan Savić

Email: [email protected]

Website: www.kwrwater.nl/en/

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/dragansavic/ www.linkedin.com/company/kwr-water-research-institute/

Read or Download Dragan Savić FREng's Press Release HERE

Links Mentioned

KWI's "Stop It" program

Gwinnett County Georgia, The Environmental and Heritage Center

NAP Visitorcentre in Amsterdam, The Netherlands

The Rising Tide Mastermind

Scaling UP! H2O Academy video courses

Submit a Show Idea

AWT (Association of Water Technologies)

Drop By Drop with James

In this week's episode, I offer up another challenge to you. This week's challenge is…to send handwritten notes to those who have helped you. I mean truly handwritten notes. In this digital world we live in with emails, voicemails, text messages, social media posts, and so forth, actually taking the time and effort to handwrite a sincere note to someone takes on a lot of meaning.

I'm a note writer. I've handwritten notes to my employees telling them how much I appreciate them. I've handwritten notes to mentors and those who have influenced my professional and personal development over the years. I've handwritten notes to operators for doing a good job or taking the extra time to help me. I've handwritten notes of condolences to those who have lost loved ones and congratulations to those who have brought new life into the world. I've handwritten notes on Christmas cards so it's more than just a pretty card with a signature. I once had a customer pull me into his office and gesture at all the tins and boxes of cookies and treats he had been sent at Christmas from various vendors. He sincerely told me that all of that didn't mean as much to him as my handwritten Christmas card hanging on his wall. I was once on assignment in Puerto Rico for three months and sent a handwritten postcard back to one of my customers. That postcard hung on their bulletin board above their testing area for 15 years.

Even better, I've gotten handwritten notes back. I still have many of them because they remind me of that person, that event, those times, or all of the above. You never know when your kind, sincere words may be just what that person needs to get through that particular day or week. Words mean things. Actions mean things. Handwriting a note to those who have mattered to you combines both words and actions.

2024 Events for Water Professionals

Check out our Scaling UP! H2O Events Calendar where we've listed every event Water Treaters should be aware of by clicking HERE or using the dropdown menu.