Talking Pools Podcast

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In an industry where misinformation spreads faster than wildfire, this episode pulls no punches.

Natalie Hood sits down with Matt Doll, CEO of American Fire Products, to dismantle some of the most persistent—and dangerous—myths surrounding fire features in outdoor environments. From DIY disasters to misunderstood gas systems, this conversation is a wake-up call for builders, service pros, and homeowners alike.

Because here’s the truth:

👉 Fire features are not decorative add-ons.
 👉 They are engineered systems.
 👉 And when they’re done wrong… they fail hard.

🔥 What You’ll Learn in This Episode

🚫 The Myths That Won’t Die

•  Why you can’t just throw any glass into a fire pit (and what happens if you do) 
•  The dangerous assumption that “a burner is just a metal ring”
•  Why stainless steel is NOT all the same (201 vs. 304 matters more than you think) 
•  The truth about DIY fire pits and YouTube “experts”
•  Why cheap online fire pits can become expensive problems 

⚙️ The Technical Reality (That Most People Miss)

•  The difference between natural gas vs. propane systems
•  Why gas volume vs. pressure changes everything 
•  How media (lava rock, glass) actually affects flame performance 
•  The role of ventilation, drainage, and airflow in preventing catastrophic failure 
•  Why drop-in pans and proper ignition systems are non-negotiable in high-end builds 

💸 The Cost of Doing It Wrong

•  Real-world examples of $40,000 failures from poor system selection 
•  How undersized gas lines lead to weak flames and angry clients
•  Why builders often get blamed for products they didn’t even choose
•  The hidden risks of cheap materials and knockoff components

🧠 The Smart Approach (What Pros Should Be Doing)

•  Designing around engineered, off-the-shelf systems to reduce cost and risk 
•  Planning for gas, electrical, and system integration BEFORE construction
•  Using certified components and proper materials (not hardware store shortcuts) 
•  Building fire features that increase property value AND performance

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🎙️ Making Social Media Work for You (Without Letting It Take Over Your Route)

In this episode of Talking Pools Podcast, Andrea breaks down a question she’s been hearing more and more from pool pros in the field:

👉 “How are you posting so much… and still getting your pools done?”

What follows is a real-world, no-BS look at how to use social media as a tool—not a second job.

This isn’t about going viral.
 This isn’t about chasing millions of views.

This is about efficiency, strategy, and staying relevant without sacrificing your route, your time, or your sanity.

Andrea shares practical, field-tested insights on:

•  Filming content while you’re already working (without slowing yourself down) 
•  Choosing the right pools—and customers—to film at (and avoiding problems) 
•  Using simple tools like POV shots and B-roll to create content fast 
•  Avoiding time-wasting traps like over-editing, bad camera setup, and unnecessary gear 
•  Understanding how algorithms actually work (and how to work with them, not against them) 
•  Posting strategies that drive engagement without burning you out 
•  Why clickbait, rage bait, and auto-sharing can quietly wreck your reach 
•  How to stay consistent—even when you’re slammed with work 

There’s also a deeper message running underneath this entire episode:

👉 Social media should support your business—not compete with it.

If you’ve ever felt like content creation is pulling you away from what actually makes you money, this episode will help you recalibrate and take control of your time again.

Real talk. Real experience. Real strategies that actually work in the field.

📲 Listen now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts—and start making social media work for you, not the other way around.

POOL MAGAZINE

Pool Magazine is leading up to the minute news source for Swimming Pool News and Pool Features. Ou

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In this continuation of their conversation, Lee, Shane, and Nick are joined again by industry expert Spiros from Next Gen Experts to break down a topic that’s generating serious noise across the pool industry right now: proposed workplace exposure changes and what they actually mean.

This isn’t a surface-level chlorine conversation. It’s a deep dive into how regulations, standards, and real-world operations collide—and where the industry needs to be paying attention versus where it might be overreacting.

🧠 Key Topics Discussed

🔹 Toolbox Talks You’re Already Doing (But Not Documenting)
Many pool businesses are already holding informal safety and operations meetings—but without documentation, they don’t count. Spiros explains how simple adjustments can turn everyday conversations into compliant, valuable safety practices without adding complexity. 

🔹 Safe Work Australia Proposal — What’s Really Happening
There’s been a lot of chatter about new workplace exposure limits—especially around chlorine. But here’s the reality:

•  This is not just about chlorine
•  It includes 100+ chemicals (bromine, acids, hydrogen peroxide, etc.) 
•  It spans gases, vapors, dusts, and airborne residues
•  It affects multiple industries—not just pools

Spiros emphasizes that the proposal is broad, complex, and still lacking the evidence needed to justify sweeping changes.

🔹 Air Quality, Ventilation, and the Limits of Control
The conversation shifts into something most techs never think about:

👉 You can control what you add to the water
 👉 You can’t fully control what ends up in the air

From HVAC systems in aquatic centers to chemical off-gassing, there’s an entire layer of engineering happening behind the scenes—especially indoors—that most service pros never see. 

🔹 The Reality Check: Regulation vs Practicality
If these proposals were implemented as-is, the implications could be massive:

•  Retail pool stores may require advanced ventilation systems 
•  Many locations (especially leased or strata properties) may not be able to comply 
•  Costs could outweigh benefits—with no guaranteed improvement in outcomes

Bottom line: There’s still a long road ahead before anything becomes enforceable.

🔹 Chlorine Smell, Chloramines, and Misconceptions
That “pool smell” everyone talks about?

It’s not just chlorine—it’s often chloramines and other byproducts. The discussion highlights:

•  Why some facilities don’t smell like chlorine 
•  What corrosion inside buildings can reveal about air quality 
•  How environmental factors (like salt air) complicate everything 

🔹 Australian Standard 3633 — A Major Update Coming
One of the biggest takeaways:

👉 The 40-year-old Australian pool water standard is being completely overhauled

What’s coming:

•  A unified standard for residential and public pools
•  A performance-based approach (focus on results, not rigid methods) 
•  More scientific and technical depth
•  A document designed to become the industry benchmark

Public review is expected soon—and industry participation will be critical.

🔹 Why Industry Input Matters (Now, Not Later)
There’s a strong call to action here:

Don’t complain after it’s published.
 Get involved while it’s still being written.

Feedback from real-world professionals ensures standards actually make sense in the field.

🔹 Standards Every Pool Pro Should Know
The crew highlights essential standards and resources:

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In this powerhouse roundtable, returning host Kelli Clancy leads a deep dive into one of the most misunderstood—and most critical—topics in the pool industry: insurance and risk management. Joined by members connected to the Pool & Hot Tub Alliance (PHTA) Service Committee and industry insurance professionals, this episode breaks down what pool pros think they’re covered for… versus what actually protects their business when things go sideways.

This isn’t theory. This is real-world exposure—from pool pop-ups and design failures to catastrophic jobsite accidents and long-tail liability risks that can come back years later.

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This episode explores the complexities of pool chemistry, legal considerations, industry trends, and the importance of understanding over following instructions blindly. Rudy Stankowitz shares insights on how industry control, product formulation disputes, and safety regulations impact pool professionals and consumers.

Keywords

pool chemistry, pool industry, pool safety, chemical regulation, pool maintenance, pool education, legal cases, industry trends

Key Topics

• Pool chemistry complexities and safety
• Legal cases involving pool chemicals
• Industry trends towards simplification and control

Guest Name

Rudy Stankowitz

Sound Bites

• "Follow the label, protect yourself legally."
• "Chemistry doesn't forgive mistakes."
• "Your knowledge is your best defense."

Chapters

00:00
Understanding Label Instructions in Pool Care

10:50
The Importance of Testing Over Following Rules

14:23
Legal Implications of Chemical Labels

27:48
Industry Trends: Simplifying Pool Care

AquaStar Pool Products
The Global Leader in

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Service Industry News


CPO Certification Classes
Attend your CPO class with Rudy Stankowitz!

the 'How to Get Rid of Algae' handbook
The most comprehensive guide on algae prevention and remediation you will ever own.

Online Pool Classes
The difference between you and your competition is what you know!

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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In this episode, Steve Sherwood interviews Pat Grignone from California Pool Association to explore how pool service professionals can optimize their business operations, partnerships, and insurance strategies to grow profitably and sustainably.

Keywords

pool service, business growth, partnerships, insurance, pool renovation, subcontracting, liability, pool industry

Key Topics

• Business capacity and scaling in the pool industry
• Partnering with subcontractors and specialists
• Managing insurance and liability for large projects
• Streamlining operations for profitability
• Best practices for pool renovation and startup

Guest Name

Pat Grignone

Sound Bites

• "Control the entire renovation and startup process"
• "Talk to your insurance agent before big projects"
• "Check in with your insurer when business changes"

Chapters

00:00
Introduction and Guest Introduction

00:15
Steve's Personal Pool Industry Story

01:09
Challenges of Scaling a Pool Service Business

02:01
Balancing Service, Repairs, and Billing

02:54
Strategies for Managing Growth and Capacity

04:02
Partnering with Subcontractors and Vendors

08:31
Pricing and Profitability in Renovations

09:23
Managing Renovation and Startup Processes

10:45
Controlling Quality and Long-term Service

11:37
Partnerships with Leak Detection and Plaster Companies

12:35
The Cost of Equipment and Building a Large Company

13:45
Controlling the Entire Pool Renovation Process

14:25
Advice for Companies Outsourcing Jobs

15:16
Financial and Insurance Considerations for Large Jobs

16:11
Tax and Insurance Implications of High-Value Jobs

18:01
Monitoring Revenue and Insurance Changes

18:55
Closing Remarks and Contact Information

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This episode busts common water chemistry myths, explores the science behind pool maintenance, and discusses the future of industry education. Featuring Eric Knight from Watershape University, it offers practical insights for professionals seeking to improve their water management skills.

Keywords

water chemistry, pool maintenance, water shaping, pool industry education, pool myths, chlorine, pH, alkalinity, CYA, salt systems

Key Topics

• Water chemistry misconceptions
• Proper water testing and treatment
• Impact of pH, alkalinity, and CYA on pools

Guest Name

Eric Knight

Sound Bites

• "The acid column pour myth is not accurate"
• "Adjusted alkalinity is not the true alkalinity"
• "Salt systems do not inherently raise pH"

Contact

Watershape University Homepage

Chapters

00:00
Introduction to Water Chemistry Education

04:19
Eric Knight's Journey in Aquatics

07:12
The Future of the Pool Industry

09:52
Debunking Myths about Watershape University

12:55
Understanding the Curriculum and Its Accessibility

14:45
Advanced Training and Certification

14:52
Customer Service in Pool Industry

16:23
Debunking Water Chemistry Myths

23:33
Understanding pH and Chlorine Strength

29:46
The Future of Pool Automation

34:40
Understanding pH Myths in Swimming Pools

40:14
Salt Systems and Their Chemistry

43:22
Cyanuric Acid: The Misunderstood Protector

49:35
The Importance of Education and Automation in Pool Management

The Grit Game
The Grit Game, is not just playing the game, we’re changing it. 500+ years industry experience,

Revdup Apparel
a custom apparel company built for the pool industry. Founded by pool professionals

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

Support the show

Thank you so much for listening! You can find us on social media:

• Facebook
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• Tik Tok

Email us: [email protected]

Ask a question here

In this episode, industry expert Spiros De Sarkis shares insights on professionalizing the swimming pool and spa industry, emphasizing safety, legislation, and business growth strategies. Discover how to elevate industry standards, manage risks, and build a credible, compliant business.

keywords

Swimming Pool Industry, Business Safety, Legislation, Professional Development, Industry Standards, Risk Management, Pool Safety, Business Growth, Compliance, Industry Advocacy

key topics

• Industry professionalism and standards
• Legislation and compliance in pools
• Risk management and safety protocols

takeaways

• Professionalism in the industry is crucial for credibility and safety.
• Understanding and complying with legislation can save businesses thousands.
• AI and technology are transforming risk assessment and management.
• Continuous education and community involvement strengthen industry standards.
• Proactive safety measures prevent costly accidents and legal issues.

guest name

Spiros De Sarkis

Sound Bites

• "AI can cost you thousands if you're not careful."
• "Safety is paramount for clients and technicians alike."
• "Good systems and training can prevent disasters."

Chapters

00:00
Introduction to the Podcast and Guests

00:55
Spiros De Sarkis: A Key Figure in the Industry

04:23
Upping the Ante: Professionalism in the Pool Industry

08:47
The Importance of Industry Support and Advocacy

11:38
Navigating Challenges: Seeking Help in the Industry

16:50
Safety First: Addressing Risks in Pool Management

24:47
Regulations and Standards: The Need for Licensing

Resources

• NextGen Experts
• SafeWork Australia
• Australian Standards
• SPASA Australia

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Andrea discusses the intricacies of pool circulation systems, focusing on total dynamic head, valves, piping, and the importance of proper maintenance to ensure safe and efficient pool operation.

keywords

pool circulation, total dynamic head, pool valves, water flow, pool maintenance, water hammer, filtration, pool system design

key topics

• Total dynamic head calculation and importance
• Types of pool valves and their functions
• Risks of water hammer and how to prevent it

guest name

• Understanding Total Dynamic Head and Valve Management in Pools

Sound Bites

• "Variable speed motors optimize energy use"
• "Gate valves should be fully open or closed"
• "Water hammer can cause pipe damage"

Chapters

00:00
Introduction and Technical Difficulties

02:48
Understanding Total Dynamic Head (TDH)

06:05
The Importance of Valves in Pool Systems

10:53
Piping and Flow Dynamics

14:53
Filters, Heaters, and Separation Tanks

20:31
The Heart of Pool Maintenance: Circulation

Resources

• Blu-ray XL
• revvedupto.com
• Talking Pools Podcast

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This Friday episode blends industry culture, community engagement, and high-level water chemistry into one unapologetically direct conversation. Rudy challenges a foundational assumption in pool care—that water can be “captured” and tested as-is—and dismantles it by exposing the dominant role of temperature in every chemical interaction.

Along the way, he introduces new listener giveaways, reinforces the importance of mentorship in the industry, and delivers a mix of humor and hard truth that defines the Talking Pools voice.

🎁 Listener Giveaways Announcement

•  New recurring giveaway: Talking Pools Podcast shirts (by Revved Up Apparel) 
•  Format: 
  •  A hidden “buzzword” will be placed in select Friday episodes 
  •  Listeners must submit the buzzword when prompted on the podcast’s Facebook page 
  •  Winners selected at random 
•  Previous winners and prizes included: 
  •  Sunglasses 
  •  Blu-ray XL product packs 
  •  Jack’s Magic swag 

👉 Designed to reward loyal listeners and increase engagement within the community.

🏆 2026 Mentor of the Year Award

•  Nominations open now through May 15, 2026
•  Submit at: mentoraward.com
•  Focus: Recognizing individuals who have mentored and elevated others in the pool industry
•  Selection process: 
  •  Merit-based (not popularity-driven) 
  •  Top 10 finalists recognized 
  •  One winner receives a custom championship belt

Sponsors include:

• Blu-ray XL (Title Sponsor) 
• Revved Up Apparel (Sponsor) 

👉 Core message: The industry grows faster when knowledge is passed forward, not rediscovered.

🧠 Main Topic: The Temperature Illusion in Water Testing

Key Thesis:
You are not testing the pool—you are testing a changing sample removed from its original environment.

🌡️ Temperature: The Dominant Variable

•  Temperature doesn’t just influence chemistry—it redefines it
•  Every test result is condition-dependent
•  Once a sample is pulled: 
  •  Gas exchange begins immediately 
  •  Chemical equilibria shift 
  •  Results begin drifting 

👉 The number you read is not what the water is—it’s what the water became

⚗️ Core Chemical Impacts of Temperature

1. Gas Solubility & pH Shift

•  Higher temp → lower gas solubility 
•  CO₂ leaves water → carbonic acid drops → pH rises
•  This is not an error—it’s natural equilibrium behavior

2. Reaction Speed

•  Hot water: 
  •  Faster chlorine consumption 
  •  Faster oxidation 
•  Cold water: 
  •  Slower reactions 
  •  “False stability” 

👉 “Fast” doesn’t mean broken. “Slow” doesn’t mean stable.

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