Talking Pools Podcast

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In this episode of the Talking Pools Podcast, Steve is hosting solo and plans to discuss the practical tools and tips he has gathered over his two decades in the pool industry. He emphasizes the importance of having the right tools for the job, sharing his personal collection of "cool pool tools" that help him tackle various challenges in the field. Steve also highlights the value of working smarter, not harder, and aims to provide insights on saving time, money, and energy in pool maintenance.

Steve from the Talking Pools Podcast recommends having a collection of essential tools to tackle various challenges in pool maintenance. Some of his go-to tools include:

1. Telescopic Pole: Versatile and can be attached to different cleaning heads.
2. Leaf Skimmer/Net: For removing debris from the pool surface.
3. Pool Brush: To scrub the walls and floor, preventing algae buildup.
4. Vacuum Head and Hose: For cleaning the pool floor.
5. Water Testing Kit: Ensures the chemical balance of the pool water.
6. Chemical Dispenser: Helps distribute chemicals evenly.
7. Pool Cover: Protects the pool from debris and maintains water temperature.
8. Automatic Pool Cleaner: Saves time and effort in maintaining the pool.
9. Thermometer: Monitors water temperature.
10. Repair Kit: For quick fixes.

These tools help Steve work smarter, not harder, and ensure a clean, safe pool environment.

If you have any specific questions about pool maintenance or tools, feel free to ask!

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In this episode of the Talking Pools Podcast, Lee, Peter, and Shane dive into the highs and lows of managing pool businesses and discuss the importance of employee retention, company culture, and major industry updates. Here's a rundown:

Weather, Kids, and Summer Vibes

• Lee kicks off by sharing Melbourne’s famously unpredictable weather, experiencing “four seasons in a week,” while Shane looks forward to a long weekend.
• Lee reminisces about flying with her young kids, and Peter joins in, sharing that his own kids are now 14 and 12. They talk about the tricky teenage years, with Lee joking that age 15 is when boys become a real handful.
• Peter notes the coming weekend temperatures, expecting it to hit 30°C, while Lee talks about sending reminders to her customers to open their pools early, even offering a discount as an incentive—something Peter firmly avoids.

Tackling Staff Turnover and Employee Retention

• Lee notes that many businesses are currently experiencing unexplained staff turnover, theorizing that the industry’s demanding workload might be taking its toll. She mentions the recent episode with Spiros, noting they haven’t fully addressed the topic of turnover yet.
• Peter talks about the challenges of retaining employees and mentions that fiberglass pool builders sometimes poach skilled workers. He also discusses implementing bonus incentives to encourage loyalty, with Lee noting that a bonus structure tied to performance is still legal but recommends checking with an attorney first. Lee also reminds SPASA members of the free HR support available.

Coping with Staffing Challenges

• The hosts share personal stories of past staffing challenges: Peter recalls employees quitting unexpectedly, leaving him juggling multiple roles in peak summer season. He even considered leaving the industry but realized he genuinely enjoys pool work. Luckily, he eventually found a quick-learning new hire, and now he’s fully staffed.
• They discuss the mental strain this kind of work can have, with Lee humorously asking, “How can you cope?” and mentioning the potential for PTSD. Peter mentions that he would never poach from other companies, as he believes employees who switch are less likely to show loyalty.

Employee Appreciation and Retention Strategies

• Lee points out that most employees leave for reasons other than money, suggesting business owners focus on boosting morale and showing appreciation. She emphasizes that even small gestures like donuts or a team lunch go a long way in making employees feel valued.
• Peter occasionally takes his team to the pub, and Lee suggests that fostering a sense of ownership and respect helps in retention. They reflect on how a simple “thank you” and acknowledgment of each team member’s importance can build a loyal crew.

Shane’s Journey as a Single-Operator

• Lee highlights that Shane, as a single-pool operator, has a different perspective, never having been an employer like Peter and herself. Shane shares his experience of working under an employer who treated the staff well but eventually left because of limited growth opportunities. Now, he enjoys the independence of running his own show.

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In this episode, Rudy Stankowitz blends education and humor as he breaks down the kinetics of chlorine decomposition in outdoor pools. He explains how UV radiation and heat degrade chlorine and dives into sustainable alternatives for pool maintenance, offering practical tips for eco-friendly operations.

Key Topics:

Chlorine Decomposition (00:03):

• HOCl vs. OCl-: Rudy introduces the main chlorine species that sanitize pool water—hypochlorous acid (HOCl) and hypochlorite ions (OCl-).
• UV Radiation: Sunlight, especially UV rays, speeds up chlorine decomposition, making outdoor pools lose chlorine faster. Rudy humorously compares this to an "overexposed vampire at a beach party."
• Thermal Decomposition: Heat also accelerates the breakdown of chlorine, particularly in warm water, where it evaporates faster, leading to quicker degradation.
• Radicals: As chlorine decomposes, it forms radicals that react unpredictably in pool water, which Rudy calls "the chemical version of a bad breakup—destructive and occasionally flammable."

Saving Chlorine (10:15):

• Cyanuric Acid (CYA): Rudy explains how cyanuric acid acts like sunscreen for chlorine, protecting it from UV rays and extending its lifespan in outdoor pools.

Eco-Friendly Pool Service (28:38):

• Enzymes: Rudy introduces enzymes as natural cleaners that break down oils and lotions in pool water, reducing the need for chlorine. 
• Minerals: The use of silver, copper, and zinc ions in pool treatment helps reduce chlorine reliance, creating a greener, cleaner pool environment without harsh chemicals.
• Oxygen-Based Shocks: Rudy highlights oxygen-based shocks as a gentler alternative to chlorine, humorously describing them as "hooligans bashing contaminants and running away laughing."

Water Conservation (38:20):

• Reducing Water Waste: Rudy discusses methods to conserve water, including leak detection, using pool covers, and harvesting rainwater. 

Green Technologies for Pools (42:00):

• Variable Speed Pumps: These pumps, now mandated by law, are energy-efficient and reduce operational costs.
• Cartridge Filters: While cartridge filters require more maintenance, they conserve water by eliminating the need for backwashing.
• LED Pool Lighting: LED lighting is an eco-friendly replacement for incandescent bulbs, offering significant energy savings.

Marketing Eco-Friendly Services (50:00):
Rudy emphasizes the importance of marketing green practices to eco-conscious clients, who are willing to pay more for environmentally friendly pool services. He encourages promoting the use of enzymes, phosphate removers, and rainwater harvesting systems to stand out in the competitive pool market.

Conclusion (55:00):
Rudy wraps up by stressing the importance of sustainability in pool service, urging professionals to adopt eco-friendly practices and communicate their efforts to clients. 

Resources Mentioned:

• Enzyme-based treatments (Jack’s Magic)
• Phosphate removers (Jack’s Magic)
• Mineral-based products (Blu-ray XL)
• Variable speed pumps (DOE regulations)
• Cartridge Filters (AquaStar Pool Products)

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In this episode of Thursdays with Wayne & Steve, the hosts tackle the tough but necessary topic of firing customers. Wayne and Steve dive into the signs that it’s time to cut ties with a problematic client, exploring how to assess when the drama outweighs the revenue. They break down the common red flags—late payments, unrealistic expectations, and constant complaints—and discuss how to weigh those against the value of keeping a customer on the books.

The duo also highlights when not to fire a customer, stressing the importance of separating emotion from business decisions. They offer practical tips on determining just how much hassle is too much, sharing personal stories of clients who pushed the boundaries of professionalism.

Most importantly, Wayne and Steve cover the critical part: what to say when it’s time to let a customer go. They share professional yet firm scripts for maintaining your dignity and reputation while showing a bad customer the door.

This episode is a must-listen for any pool service professional trying to navigate the tricky waters of customer relationships!

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Andrea and Paulette are back, and this time, they're schooling us on two things: Andrea's eager-but-clueless helper and, well, let’s just say some tadpoles didn’t make it out alive. Tragic but hilarious.

Just when you think it's safe to get back in the water, BAM! You get hit with a Biolab update. You know, the place that had that massive fire. Trying to get things back on track after that has been a mess. Things are looking up, according to this Press Release.

Picture this: Andrea’s got a new guy on the team, right? And this guy is the definition of enthusiastic ignorance. He doesn’t know squat about pool service, but he’s like a sponge—ready to soak it all in, except maybe some chlorine, 'cause I think he missed that memo. The whole time, Andrea’s like, “I appreciate your effort, but please, for the love of God, stop messing with the equipment before you turn the filter into a Space X rocket.”

And speaking of science experiments… let's talk tadpoles. RIP to those little guys. Yeah, apparently, while learning the ropes, the new guy thought it was totally normal to skim out frogs and their tiny swimming babies with, like, zero remorse. Andrea tried to stop him, but at some point, you gotta just let it happen and give the tadpoles a funeral they didn’t ask for. "And here we lay these little amphibians to rest—plop—in the chlorine-soaked afterlife. May they hop in peace."

Andrea and Paulette just wrap it up like, “So yeah, tadpoles dead, chlorine shortage is a concern, and this new guy… still has no idea what he’s doing. But he’s learning!” It's like a reality show where the stakes are lower, but the laughs are higher.

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In this episode of Mondays Down Under, Peter, Shane, and Lee are joined by Spiros Dassakis, the Chief Policy Officer of SPASA, to dive into important updates regarding pool safety regulations, specifically changes to AS1926.1, which governs pool barriers in Australia. Spiros provides valuable insights into how these changes impact both pool service professionals and homeowners, emphasizing the critical role of proper barrier installation in ensuring pool safety.

This episode is particularly relevant for Australian listeners, as the updates to AS1926.1 directly affect compliance and safety standards across the country. The team discusses practical steps for implementing these changes and staying ahead of the new regulations. For more details, listeners can check out relevant resources at spasa.com.au and stay informed about upcoming events at spasa.com.au/events.

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In this conversation, Rudy Stankowitz delves into the intricate world of pool chemistry, focusing on the critical role of cyanuric acid in maintaining chlorine levels. He emphasizes the importance of digital marketing strategies for pool service companies, including SEO and social media engagement. The discussion also covers the delicate balance between chlorine and cyanuric acid, offering practical tips for pool professionals to optimize their maintenance practices.

takeaways

• Cyanuric acid is essential for effective chlorine use.
• Digital marketing is crucial for pool service visibility.
• Social media can enhance customer engagement.
• SEO strategies can drive more traffic to pool services.
• Understanding molecular dynamics helps in pool maintenance.
• Balancing chlorine and cyanuric acid is key to sanitation.
• Regular testing of water chemistry is necessary.
• Using Google My Business can improve local search results.
• Dilution is a practical solution for high cyanuric acid levels.
• Aluminum sulfate can effectively lower cyanuric acid levels.

Sound Bites

• "Cyanuric acid plays a crucial role in maintaining your chlorine level."
• "You must be in the arcane rituals of molecular dynamics."
• "It's all about how the sunlight glistens off the water."

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In this heartfelt and inspiring episode of the Talking Pools Podcast, Steve and Wayne take listeners on an emotional journey, imagining what the life of a pool guy would look like in a perfect world. From the first few words, you can feel the deep passion they have for the pool industry and the people who make it run. They paint a picture of an industry where pool service techs are treated like the professionals they truly are—where respect, appreciation, and recognition are part of everyday life.

Wayne begins by describing a world where pool service pros are valued for their expertise and not just seen as “the pool guy.” He envisions clients who understand the complexities behind what techs do, recognizing that pool maintenance is more than just skimming the surface. The conversation takes on a nostalgic and wistful tone, as Wayne and Steve both reflect on moments when they felt unseen or underappreciated in their own careers.

Steve chimes in, imagining a world where techs have all the tools and resources they need—where they aren’t scrambling to find parts or dealing with outdated equipment. In this perfect world, pool techs are equipped with the latest technology and software to streamline their work, making their lives easier and giving them more time for what matters most: spending time with family, pursuing passions, or simply relaxing after a hard day's work.

The conversation grows even more emotional when Wayne speaks about the physical toll pool service takes. He dreams of a world where techs have lighter, ergonomic equipment to reduce strain on their bodies, with health benefits and mental health support built into the job. The perfect world they describe is one where burnout is a thing of the past, and every tech feels supported and energized.

Steve paints the final strokes of their vision, imagining a culture of mutual respect between service pros and clients. In this world, homeowners don’t just expect perfection—they appreciate the effort and expertise it takes to achieve it. Clients tip generously, express gratitude, and trust their techs enough to give them flexibility in scheduling. He envisions a world where pool pros go home satisfied, not stressed, knowing their hard work is appreciated.

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In this Talking Pools Podcast episode, Andrea and Paulette dive into the aftermath of Hurricane Milton, where pools were left in chaos, strewn with debris, and demanding far more than a simple skim and brush. Yet, one of the most pressing questions they tackle is: Why are pool service professionals so hesitant to charge extra for the extra work that comes with storm cleanup?

Andrea and Paulette, seasoned pros in the pool industry, know all too well the hesitation that comes with asking clients for additional payment. It's almost like there's an unspoken fear among pool techs that customers will flip out the moment they hear "extra charge." And that’s the problem!

It’s baffling that homeowners, who’ve just lived through the same hurricane, often seem surprised or—worse—offended that their pool guy or gal wants to charge more for what’s obviously more work. Trees uprooted, dirt blown in, and leaves plastering the pool surface like confetti after a parade—shouldn't it be common sense that this level of cleanup requires extra effort and, naturally, extra compensation?

Andrea highlights that, post-hurricane, pool pros aren't just dealing with a little extra dirt. They're working overtime to remove heavy debris, restore proper water chemistry, and prevent long-term damage from becoming an even bigger issue. This is hours of back-breaking labor—far beyond the usual weekly check-up.

Paulette chimes in, pointing out that it's a mindset issue. Many pool techs feel almost guilty for charging more, as if they're letting down their customers by needing compensation for their time. But let’s be real—if a tree guy gets to charge you for removing that massive oak limb from your backyard, why shouldn't the pool tech charge to haul out the aftermath from your pool?

What it really boils down to is communication. Pool service professionals should feel confident and assertive in explaining the reasons for additional fees after a weather event. The reality is, homeowners need to understand that pool care doesn’t come with a flat rate for all scenarios—especially when Mother Nature decides to whip up a storm.

Andrea and Paulette’s discussion is a reminder to pool techs that asking for more isn't greedy—it’s professional. If homeowners want their oasis restored after a storm, they need to realize it comes with a fair price tag.

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In this gripping episode of the Talking Pools Podcast, Peter shares a shocking story that will leave pool professionals both horrified and deeply aware of the dangers that lurk when chemicals are mishandled. He recounts an unforgettable moment when one of his customers mistakenly poured chlorine into an old sulfuric acid barrel. The hosts, Lee and Shane, are immediately taken aback, and the weight of the potential disaster sinks in. Peter explains that the reaction could have been catastrophic, triggering the release of toxic gases or even causing an explosion. He then recalls witnessing a competitor pool service technician making the same reckless mistake, cementing the lesson that even seasoned professionals aren't immune to carelessness.

The conversation takes an emotional turn as the hosts dive into the critical importance of never mixing incompatible chemicals. With their usual candor, Peter, Lee, and Shane stress that the risk isn't just property damage—it’s life-threatening. The gravity of their words hangs in the air as they speak about the unseen dangers that pool techs encounter daily, often while feeling invincible due to routine. Shane passionately urges listeners to re-examine their habits and ensure they educate both employees and customers about the dangers of improper chemical storage and handling.

It’s a sobering episode, packed with the kind of hard-hitting reality that serves as a wake-up call. The risks associated with mixing pool chemicals are real, and this episode doesn’t shy away from the terrifying consequences that could result from just one moment of oversight.

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