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This week on the 🇦🇺🇳🇿 edition of the Talking Pools Podcast, Lee, Shane, and Nick welcome longtime industry veteran and chemistry expert John Harding of Lo-Chlor Chemicals for a fascinating deep dive into the rapidly expanding world of wellness products in the pool and spa industry. 

John shares his incredible journey from aircraft engineer in England to becoming Technical Director at Lo-Chlor, one of Australia’s longest-standing specialty pool chemical manufacturers. Listeners get the backstory behind how Lo-Chlor was founded in 1979 after a hospital hydrotherapy pool kept turning green—and how a pharmacist’s chemistry experiments ultimately helped create one of the industry's most recognizable specialty chemical brands. 

The conversation then shifts into one of the hottest trends in the industry right now: wellness spaces featuring hot tubs, saunas, cold plunges, and recovery systems. The team discusses how modern homeowners are increasingly transforming their backyards into personal wellness retreats rather than simply installing swimming pools. 

John introduces Lo-Chlor’s new wellness-focused product lineup, including:

•  Sauna cleaning and wood protection products 
•  Waterline and surface cleaners 
•  Cover care systems 
•  Specialized cleaners for robotic pool cleaners 
•  Mineral enhancement products designed to improve water feel and comfort 

One of the standout discussions centers around robotic pool cleaners and the often-overlooked issue of oils and body fats clogging robotic filter cartridges. John explains why simply hosing filters off is not enough and why degreasing and proper maintenance dramatically improves robotic cleaner performance and longevity. 

The episode also explores mineral water enhancement systems like Therapy 3 and the Iluka spa range, discussing how magnesium and potassium blends can improve water feel without significantly impacting hardness readings or chlorine systems. 

Perhaps the most thought-provoking segment comes near the end of the episode, when the hosts tackle the emerging challenges surrounding cold plunge pools and float tanks. With very little regulation currently in place, the discussion dives into:

•  Water testing challenges at extremely low temperatures 
•  Difficulties with microbiological testing due to high TDS 
•  Lack of existing standards for cold plunge sanitation 
•  Potential public health concerns as the market rapidly expands 

Lee and John discuss how the industry may be evolving faster than regulations can keep up, especially as wellness products become more mainstream across Australia, New Zealand, and internationally. The episode closes with an important reminder that education, chemistry knowledge, and adapting to new technologies remain critical as the pool and spa industry continues evolving. 

If you're a pool professional looking to stay ahead of emerging trends in spas, saunas, cold plunges, mineral systems, and wellness water care, this is an episode you do not want to miss.

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On this episode of the Talking Pools Podcast, Rudy dives headfirst into one of the most controversial chemistry and regulatory topics currently shaking the pool industry: sodium bromide, EPA labeling law, and the reality of enforcement under FIFRA regulations.

This episode is not speculation, fearmongering, or internet rumor. It is a detailed breakdown of what the EPA label changes actually mean, how pesticide law works in the real world, the difference between civil and criminal enforcement, and why documentation—not chemistry testing—is often what creates liability exposure for pool professionals.

But the conversation doesn’t stop there. Rudy takes listeners deep into the science of algae remediation, cyanobacteria biofilms, ammonium sulfate systems, polyquat chemistry, copper ionization, oxidizer sequencing, and why “black algae” was never one singular organism to begin with.

From mustard algae treatments and chloramine chemistry to Nostoc, Oscillatoria, Lingbya, EPS biofilm structures, cyanotoxins, circulation dead spots, and why most pool pros have unknowingly been fighting infrastructure rather than algae itself, this episode tears apart decades of pool industry myths and marketing shortcuts.

The show also includes major industry news updates involving Leslie’s stock movement, Swimpley rental regulation battles in Minnesota, Department of Energy pool pump compliance relief secured by the Pool & Hot Tub Alliance, Mentor of the Year sponsorship announcements, and giveaway winners from the Talking Pools community. 

Show Notes

•  Rudy clarifies the episode is a factual discussion about EPA labeling law and not legal advice 
•  Breakdown of the EPA sodium bromide outdoor pool labeling restriction 
•  Explanation of how FIFRA pesticide law makes label instructions legally enforceable 
•  Discussion about bromate formation concerns and the EPA’s regulatory reasoning 
•  Why the sodium bromide “ban” is technically a labeling restriction rather than a criminal prohibition 
•  The difference between low enforcement probability and actual legality 
•  How modern enforcement actions often originate from invoices, logs, social media posts, videos, and digital records rather than physical pool testing 
•  The major differences between residential pool enforcement risk and commercial aquatic facility exposure 
•  Civil penalties versus criminal enforcement under FIFRA regulations 
•  Real-world liability concerns tied to knowingly using products off-label 
•  How lawsuits and insurance investigations can expose undocumented chemical practices 
•  Leslie’s stock movement and what it may indicate about broader consumer confidence in the pool industry 
•  2026 Talking Pools Podcast Mentor of the Year Award updates and sponsor announcements 
•  Jack’s Magic and Revved Up Apparel giveaway winners announced 
•  Minnesota regulators continuing efforts to classify Swimpley rental pools as public/commercial pools 
•  Potential nationwide implications of app-based pool rental regulation 
•  PHTA secures Department of Energy compliance relief regarding new pool pump motor regulations 
•  Discussion surrounding supply chain concerns and delayed enforcement deadlines through 2029 
•  Deep dive into sodium bromide chemistry and bromine sanitizer formation 
•  How ammonium sulfate products like Yellow Out actually function chemically 
•  Why ammonium sulfate systems create aggressive oxidation environments and massive chlorine demand 
•  Chloramine formation explained in the context of algae eradication chemistry 
•  Why mustard algae often responds dramatically to oxidizer amplification treatments 
•  Traditional quats versus Polyquat 60 chemistry explained 
•  Why cheap quaternary algaecides foam aggressively in swimming pools 
•  The structural advantages of Polyquat 60’s polymeric chemistry 
•  Why most algaecides work better preventatively than reactively 
•  Rudy explains why cyanobacteria biofilms behave more like fortified microbial cities than traditional algae 
•  Breakdown of Nostoc, Oscillatoria, Lingbya, Microcystis, and other cyanobacteria genera commonly found in pools 
•  Why “black algae” is not one single organism but a broad visual category 
•  EPS slime layers and how they protect cyanobacteria colonies from oxidizers 
•  Why brushing and physical disruption are essential for effective remediation 
•  How pitted plaster creates ideal environments for recolonization 
•  Discussion on hydraulic dead spots and their role in recurring infestations 
•  Copper-based systems explained, including staining risks and chemistry management requirements 
•  Why circulation correction is often just as important as chemistry adjustments 
•  The overlooked topic of cyanotoxins and microcystin-producing cyanobacteria in aquatic environments 
•  Why algae remediation sometimes requires filtration optimization, dilution, and water replacement after cellular collapse 
•  Rudy argues that no algaecide replaces the fundamentals of brushing, circulation, filtration, sanitizer maintenance, and proper FC/CYA management 
•  Why the future of pool chemistry will move toward species-aware remediation strategies instead of generic algae categories 
•  The difference between chemistry-based pool care and marketing-based pool care

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On this episode of the Talking Pools Podcast, Steve dives into the realities of commercial pool liability, leak detection, client communication, and the hidden responsibilities that separate true professionals from “just the pool guy.”

The episode opens with Steve discussing the frustration surrounding the 2026 FIFA World Cup ticket prices before shifting into another edition of the Insurance Interlude with Pat Grignon of the California Pool Association. Together, they unpack a real-world commercial pool situation involving missing handrails, code violations, liability exposure, and the importance of documenting hazards before they become lawsuits.

Steve also delivers a detailed masterclass on swimming pool leak detection—from the bucket test and common skimmer throat leaks to light conduit failures, dye testing, and why every pool company should build relationships with specialized leak detection professionals.

The conversation expands into business growth, professionalism, continuing education through CPO certification, building vendor partnerships, and the importance of commanding confidence when speaking with clients. Whether you’re a new pool tech or a seasoned operator, this episode is packed with field-tested advice, operational insight, and hard-earned lessons from the trenches of the pool industry. 

Show Notes

•  Steve discusses taking his first real day off in weeks after nonstop CPO classes, commercial pool work, and field service calls 
•  Frustration over 2026 FIFA World Cup ticket pricing and how rising costs are pushing longtime fans away from attending matches 
•  Insurance Interlude with Pat Grignon of the California Pool Association 
•  Commercial pool liability discussion involving missing handrails, code violations, depth markers, and no-diving signage 
•  Why service companies have a legal duty to identify and document hazards at commercial pools 
•  The importance of written communication, email documentation, and certified letters when addressing dangerous pool conditions 
•  Discussion on foreseeability, negligence, proximate cause, and how lawsuits target everyone connected to a commercial pool incident 
•  Why certain violations should potentially justify closing a commercial pool until repairs are completed 
•  Overlooked commercial pool code requirements including transition lines, deck depth markers, and step visibility indicators 
•  How courts may determine liability between service companies and construction contractors 
•  Steve’s philosophy on protecting clients while simultaneously protecting your company from exposure 
•  A full breakdown of swimming pool leak detection basics for newer pool professionals 
•  How to perform the bucket test to confirm water loss 
•  Common leak locations including skimmer throats, light conduits, spa jets, and cracked tile lines 
•  Why Steve recommends using marine epoxy products like Splash Zone for underwater repairs 
•  The value of partnering with dedicated leak detection specialists rather than trying to handle every service internally 
•  Business advice on building strategic partnerships with plaster companies, leak detection companies, and specialty contractors 
•  Discussion about markup strategy and creating referral partnerships that benefit both companies 
•  Why pool professionals should avoid sending outside contractors who may try to steal recurring service accounts 
•  Steve explains why honesty and transparency with customers build long-term trust 
•  The importance of education and CPO certification for newer pool professionals entering the industry 
•  How knowledgeable communication builds authority and helps clients trust your expertise 
•  Real-world examples of identifying hidden hazards clients never noticed themselves 
•  Pool Corp’s giveaway promotion for the Aper Scuba P1 robotic vacuum 
•  Discussion about distributor pricing, OEM parts inflation, and why pool pros are increasingly turning to aftermarket options 
•  Teaser for an upcoming episode discussing commercial bidding strategies, vacuum systems, and how Steve slowly closed a six-month commercial contract negotiation

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Pool Inspections, Liability, Codes & the Dangerous Assumptions That Cost Thousands. Part 2 of this 2 part episode.

With Host Natalie Hood of The Grit Game and Special Guest Dennis Boyd of Watershape University

In the conclusion of this powerful two-part episode of Myth Busting Wednesdays, Natalie Hood sits down with Dennis Boyd for a brutally honest conversation about the realities of swimming pool inspections, code compliance, safety standards, liability, and the myths that continue to plague the pool industry. 

This episode digs deep into one of the biggest misconceptions in the swimming pool industry: just because a pool is open, built, or passed inspection once does not mean it is safe, compliant, or properly constructed today. Dennis explains how pool inspectors must constantly continue learning, especially in areas like electrical safety, bonding, lighting systems, hydraulics, structural integrity, and evolving code requirements. 

Natalie and Dennis break down the dangerous assumption that “if the contractor built it, it must be compliant,” sharing real-world examples of improperly built pools, exposed rebar hidden beneath unfinished shotcrete, disconnected bonding systems, improperly grounded electrical components, and construction shortcuts that could have led to catastrophic failures or lawsuits. 

The conversation also explores the confusion surrounding municipal inspections and building codes. Dennis explains how different jurisdictions may adopt completely different combinations of the International Building Code (IBC), International Swimming Pool & Spa Code (ISPSC), and local amendments, creating inconsistencies throughout the country. The result? Pools can sometimes receive occupancy approval while still containing serious safety hazards. 

Natalie and Dennis also tackle:

•  Why home inspectors often lack meaningful aquatic training 
•  The critical difference between general liability insurance and Errors & Omissions (E&O) coverage for pool inspectors 
•  Why written inspection reports become legal disclosure documents during real estate transactions 
•  The growing need for specialized aquatic inspection professionals 
•  Why pool builders, service technicians, and inspectors often operate with completely different knowledge bases 
•  The shocking pool code requirements most professionals have never heard of — including residential safety rope requirements under ISPSC Chapter 8. 

Dennis also shares how Watershape University training has helped professionals better understand slides, diving envelopes, gate safety, coefficient of friction standards, and the hidden hazards that most homeowners — and many contractors — completely overlook. 

Natalie closes the episode with a powerful reminder:

Pools don’t fail because of bad luck. They fail because of bad assumptions.

This is an episode every pool builder, service professional, inspector, real estate agent, and pool owner needs to hear.

Topics Covered

•  Pool inspection myths 
•  Electrical and bonding safety 
•  Pool code compliance 
•  Residential pool inspections 
•  Watershape University training 
•  Pool builder liability 
•  E&O insurance for inspectors 
•  ISPSC and IBC code discussions 
•  Real estate disclosure and pool inspections 
•  Pool construction defects 
•  Safety standards for residential pools 
•  Why continuing education matters in aquatics 

Listen & Follow

🎧 Talking Pools Podcast

#SwimmingPool #PoolInspection #PoolService #PoolBuilder #WatershapeUniversity #TalkingPoolsPodcast #PoolSafety #PoolIndustry

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On this episode of the Talking Pools Podcast, Andrea takes a deep dive into one of the most important — and often overlooked — topics in the swimming pool industry: safety. 

With summer approaching and pool usage increasing across the country, Andrea discusses the real-world responsibility pool professionals carry when it comes to preventing drownings, suction entrapment incidents, and avoidable tragedies. The episode opens with two heartbreaking Florida drowning stories involving young children — one at a pool party and another at an Airbnb rental property — sparking a broader conversation about accountability, supervision, and the role safety barriers play in aquatic environments. 

Andrea breaks down the five types of suction entrapment hazards including:

•  Hair entrapment 
•  Limb entrapment 
•  Body entrapment 
•  Mechanical entrapment 
•  Evisceration/disembowelment 

She explains how these incidents occur, why they remain a serious risk even in modern pools, and why educating homeowners and clients about suction safety is critical. The discussion also explores how damaged or missing drain covers, improper flow rates, aging plastics, and poor maintenance practices can create dangerous conditions. 

The episode includes a detailed explanation of the Virginia Graeme Baker Pool & Spa Safety Act (VGBA), including:

•  Why VGBA compliance is about the entire hydraulic system — not just drain covers 
•  The role of dual drains and unblockable drains 
•  Safety Vacuum Release Systems (SVRS) 
•  Maximum flow ratings 
•  Drain cover life expectancy 
•  Pump sizing considerations 
•  Commercial inspection requirements 

Andrea also shares the tragic stories behind the legislation, including the deaths of Virginia Graeme Baker and Abigail Taylor, and how those incidents changed federal pool safety standards forever. 

Other topics include:

•  Why drowning deaths are increasing in the United States 
•  The importance of swimming lessons and active supervision 
•  Water watcher programs 
•  Airbnb and short-term rental pool safety concerns 
•  Why cloudy water should never be ignored 
•  Why pool pros should document damaged safety equipment immediately 
•  Common dangerous pool games and behaviors that should be discouraged 
•  Long hair safety around suction outlets 
•  Why “touch the drain” games are a terrible idea 
•  The importance of keeping gates and barriers closed 

Andrea also provides listeners with an extensive list of water safety organizations and educational resources including:

• Pool Safely
• National Drowning Prevention Alliance
• Abby's Hope
• PHTA Step Into Swim
• Every Child A Swimmer
• CDC Healthy Swimming

This episode serves as both a refresher and a reminder that pool safety is not a checklist — it’s a culture. Whether you service residential pools, commercial facilities, vacation rentals, or aquatic centers, this conversation reinforces why education, awareness, and proactive prevention matter.

Follow the Talking Pools Podcast on all major streaming platforms and join the conversation on social media.

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On this episode of the Talking Pools Podcast, Lee Salisbury, Shane from Auckland, and Nick from Brisbane dive headfirst into one of the biggest challenges facing pool professionals everywhere: time management. 

From subscription fatigue to overloaded schedules, the crew discusses how pool service companies can streamline operations, eliminate wasted effort, and create smarter workflows without adding more stress—or more monthly software fees. 

Nick shares how he has transformed Buffer Zone into a centralized operational hub for his business, using it for everything from technician scheduling and supplier management to equipment manuals, staff notes, training resources, and client communication. The conversation explores how keeping everything inside one ecosystem reduces missed jobs, forgotten tasks, duplicated subscriptions, and operational chaos. 

The episode also explores creative “workarounds” within software systems—showing listeners how to use scheduling tools for personal appointments, admin blocks, vehicle servicing reminders, supplier pickups, and inventory management. Shane discusses his previous use of the Timely calendar system and how similar functionality can be recreated directly inside Buffer Zone to simplify operations and reduce reliance on external apps. 

Lee takes the conversation further into productivity systems, sharing how tools like Google Workspace, Google Calendar, Google Tasks, Google Forms, Google Drive, and automation integrations can dramatically improve efficiency for pool service companies. The discussion highlights real-world examples of live technician reporting, automated spreadsheets, winter repair prospecting, quote generation, inventory forecasting, and field-to-office communication systems that save hours every week. 

The team also discusses password management, shared staff access, cloud-based documentation, technician accountability, and how centralizing information can protect businesses when employees leave or systems fail. 

Most importantly, this episode focuses on the philosophy of continuous improvement—making small operational changes that create massive long-term gains. Whether you’re a solo operator or managing multiple technicians, the crew emphasizes that investing time into better systems today can save enormous amounts of time, stress, and money tomorrow. 

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This episode features Scott Hamilton, CEO of United Chemical, discussing the EPA's recent restrictions on sodium bromide, its implications for pool professionals, and the science behind bromate formation and safety. Gain insights into regulatory processes, chemical safety, and effective pool management strategies.

keywords

sodium bromide, EPA regulations, bromate, pool chemistry, pool safety, algae control, chemical risk assessment, United Chemical, Yellow Treat, bromine pools

key topics

• EPA's restrictions on sodium bromide
• Bromate formation and health risks
• Science and risk assessment of pool chemicals

guest name

Scott Hamilton

Sound Bites

• "Don't let your mentor go, that's mentoreward.com."
• "Bromamines are effective and don't have a nasty smell."
• "Pool pros should voice their concerns to regulators."

Chapters

00:00
Introduction to the EPA's Controversy on Sodium Bromide

03:52
The History and Impact of Bromate Regulations

06:53
Understanding Bromate Formation in Pools

09:30
The Chemistry of Bromine and Chlorine in Pools

12:18
The Misconceptions of Bromine Pools

15:16
Toxicology of Bromate and Cancer Risks

18:12
Bromate in Food Products and Regulatory Delays

22:25
Understanding EPA's Role and Challenges

25:10
The Impact of Lobbying on Chemical Regulations

29:45
Efficacy of Sodium Bromide in Algae Control

30:50
Trends in Mustard Algae Growth

34:22
Research Findings on Bromate Formation

42:48
Engaging with Regulatory Bodies

45:40
Legacy and Safety of Sodium Bromide

Resources

• United Chemical
• Yellow Treat
• EPA Regulations on Bromide Products (2005)
• Bromate Risk Assessment Study

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Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

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This episode explores the impact of AI on the insurance industry, business practices, and legal considerations, featuring insights from industry expert Pat Grigno.

keywords

AI, insurance, business, contracts, legal, technology, automation, risk management

key topics

• Impact of AI on insurance industry
• Legal and contractual considerations with AI
• AI's role in business efficiency and risk management

guest name

Pat Grigno

Sound Bites

• "AI is affecting all of us now"
• "AI can help draft better contracts"
• "Terrorism insurance costs vary by risk"

Chapters

00:00
The Impact of AI on Business and Insurance

11:18
Navigating AI in Contracts and Insurance Policies

15:27
Understanding Liability and Insurance in Unforeseen Events

Resources

• California Pool Association
• AI Contract Summarization Tools

Guest links

• LinkedIn

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Join us as we explore the critical, often-overlooked world of pool inspections with expert Dennis Boyd. Discover the myths, safety concerns, and essential knowledge every homeowner, builder, and inspector needs to prevent disasters and legal issues. Part 1 of 2.

Keywords

pool inspections, pool safety, home inspection, water chemistry, pool construction, legal issues, pool industry, inspection myths

Key Topics

• The importance of thorough pool inspections
• Common myths and misconceptions in pool safety
• The role of water chemistry and construction knowledge in inspections

Guest Name

Dennis Boyd

Sound Bites

• "Not all inspectors are trained equally."
• "Inspectors need broad construction knowledge."
• "Continuous education makes a better inspector."

Chapters

00:00
Introduction to Pool Inspections

01:45
Understanding the Importance of Thorough Inspections

09:49
Debunking Myths About Pool Inspections

29:12
The Role of Education and Training in Inspections

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In this episode, Heidi Weeks from Peppermint HR shares expert insights on HR best practices for small businesses, especially in the pool industry. Topics include compliance, structuring, connection, and practical tips for building a strong HR foundation.

keywords

HR, small business, pool industry, compliance, employee engagement, HR policies, team management, HR tips

key topics

• HR compliance and award classifications
• Building organizational structure and clarity
• Creating connection and engagement with staff

takeaways

• Start with compliance: pay rates, contracts, policies.
• Embed simple HR systems early to support growth.
• Regular communication and feedback are crucial.
• Know your staff personally to motivate and retain.

guest name

Heidi Weeks

Sound Bites

• "Know your award and pay rates"
• "Establish clear HR processes"
• "Create a family culture"

Chapters

00:00
Introduction to HR in the Pool Industry

02:29
Unique Challenges in the Pool Industry

04:53
The Importance of HR from Day One

07:41
Three Pillars of HR: Confidence, Clarity, and Connection

10:00
Building Confidence through Compliance

12:47
Establishing Clarity in HR Processes

15:31
Fostering Connection for High Performance

17:56
Navigating the Employer-Friend Dynamic

20:31
Common HR Mistakes and Easy Fixes

23:25
Engaging Employees for Better Retention

26:02
Conclusion and Resources

Resources

• Peppermint HR Website
• HR Foundations Guide
• HR Health Check Quiz

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