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In this engaging conversation, Natalie Hood shares her extensive experience in the pool and hot tub industry, discussing significant shifts in certifications, the impact of the pandemic on education, and her aspirations for the future. She emphasizes the importance of quality training and the challenges faced by the industry, including market dynamics and tariffs. Natalie reflects on her relationships within the industry and offers valuable advice for pool service companies, encouraging them to maintain high standards and adapt to changes.

takeaways

• Natalie Hood has a rich background in the pool and hot tub industry.
• The certification landscape has evolved significantly over the years.
• Quality training and certification are crucial for safety in aquatics.
• The pandemic forced a shift to virtual education in the industry.
• Building strong relationships is key to success in the aquatics field.
• Future opportunities in the aquatics industry are abundant.
• Tariffs and market dynamics pose challenges for the industry.
• Pool service companies should prioritize quality and avoid cutting corners.
• Natalie encourages open communication and collaboration within the industry.
• The importance of adapting to change and embracing new methods in education.

Sound Bites

• "I swam four miles the other day."
• "You can become a certified out there."
• "Don't skip corners."

Chapters

00:00
Introduction to the Podcast and Guest

00:59
Natalie Hood's Journey in the Pool Industry

04:39
Embracing Life and Family

07:16
New Chapter

09:53
Shifts in the Pool and Hot Tub Industry

12:12
Navigating Certification Challenges

14:36
Consulting and Supporting Instructors

17:24
Adapting Education in a Pandemic

19:49
Future Aspirations in Aquatics

27:10
The Decision to Move On

28:13
Influences and Legacy in the Industry

29:25
The Future of the Pool Industry

30:42
Impact of Tariffs on the Industry

31:32
The Evolution of Trade Associations

32:09
Social Media and Influencer Culture

33:47
Opportunities in the Pool Industry

34:44
Challenges Facing Trade Organizations

37:10
Advice for Pool Service Companies

37:39
Building Relationships in the Industry

38:21
Favorite Recipes and Personal Touches

39:05
Adult Education in the Pool Industry

40:20
pool magazine commercial - Copy.mp4

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In this episode, Steven Wayne and Wayne Ivusich dive into the timely topic of tariffs and their implications for the pool and spa industry. They discuss how government-imposed tariffs on certain countries are affecting product availability, costs, and the overall industry landscape. From treatment chemicals to replacement parts, the hosts explore the ripple effects on businesses and customers alike. They also touch on strategies for navigating these challenges, including whether businesses should absorb the costs or pass them on to customers.

Key Topics Covered:

• Introduction to tariffs and their impact on the industry
• Product availability and cost challenges
• Examples of affected items, including chemicals and replacement parts
• Insights on how manufacturers and businesses are responding
• Discussion on pricing strategies and customer impact

Notable Quotes:

• "It's going to affect everybody, particularly customers."
• "Is this something we need to pass on to the customer, or can we absorb it?"

Listener Takeaways:

• Understand the current challenges posed by tariffs in the pool and spa industry.
• Gain insights into how businesses can adapt to these changes.
• Learn about the broader implications for manufacturers and customers.

Join the conversation and share your thoughts on how tariffs are impacting your business or experience in the pool and spa industry.

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In this episode, the hosts discuss various aspects of pool maintenance, including personal experiences with pool challenges, customer interactions, and the impact of tariffs on the pool industry. They also touch on health and safety concerns related to pool maintenance and the importance of effective communication with customers.

takeaways

• Follow us on our socials for updates.
• Pool maintenance can be unpredictable with equipment failures.
• Customer expectations can vary widely in the pool industry.
• Tariffs are affecting the cost of pool materials and chemicals.
• Effective communication with customers is crucial for satisfaction.
• Health and safety in pool maintenance is a growing concern.
• Understanding customer needs can lead to better service.
• The pool industry is facing challenges with rising costs.
• Maintaining clear water is essential for pool usability.
• Industry news can impact daily operations in pool maintenance.

Sound Bites

• "Follow us on our socials!"
• "My pool heater broke!"
• "Why would you do that?"

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In this episode of Talking Pools, hosts Peter, Shane and Lee discuss their experiences traveling along the Victorian coastline, touching on the beauty of locations like Warrnambool and the Twelve Apostles. They delve into the challenges of pool maintenance, particularly in relation to customer communication and the importance of understanding different cultural perspectives on pool usage. The conversation also highlights seasonal business strategies for maintaining staff engagement during quieter months.

takeaways

• The Victorian coastline offers stunning views and experiences.
• Traveling can provide a refreshing break from work.
• Customer communication is crucial in service industries.
• Assumptions can lead to misunderstandings in customer relations.
• It's important to ask questions diplomatically.
• Cultural differences can affect how people use their pools.
• Seasonal strategies are essential for maintaining business.
• Pool maintenance requires understanding specific equipment needs.
• Test results should be interpreted carefully, not taken at face value.
• Maintaining staff engagement during slow seasons is vital.

Sound Bites

• "What a stunning coastline!"
• "You gotta pay the bills, mate."
• "Don't assume ill intent."
• "The best thing to do is be inquisitive."
• "You have to read between the lines."
• "You need to think outside the box."
• "Have a bloody good week!"

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In this episode of the Talking Pools podcast, Rudy Stankowitz welcomes Derrick Todd, the creator of Pool Boy Rubs. They discuss Derrick's journey from running a retail store to creating unique barbecue rubs, the inspiration behind his flavors, and the importance of flavor in life. Derrick shares insights on sourcing ingredients, customer feedback, and engaging with the community through contests. The conversation emphasizes the need for flavor not just in cooking but in life experiences, encouraging listeners to live fully and share their stories.

takeaways

• Derrick Todd transitioned from retail to creating barbecue rubs.
• The original flavor of Pool Boy Rubs was designed to be a go-to barbecue seasoning.
• Sourcing quality ingredients is crucial for creating unique flavors.
• Customer feedback has shaped the development of new rubs.
• The MILF rub is versatile and can be used on various dishes.
• Engaging with the community enhances the brand's reach and creativity.
• Flavor in cooking reflects the flavor of life experiences.
• Derrick encourages listeners to be interesting and share their stories.
• The importance of flavor extends beyond food to life itself.
• Derrick's journey highlights the value of pursuing passions and creativity.

Sound Bites

• "I wanted to call it your American rub."
• "Pool Boy Rubs contest!"
• "You need flavor in your life."
  
  
  
  (2) Pool Boy - Roast Duck with Orange Sauce! This recipe serves about... | Facebook
  
  (2) Grill and Chill | Facebook
  
  (2) Pool Boys Grilling, BBQ and Cooking Club | Facebook

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In this conversation, the hosts discuss various aspects of customer service in the pool industry, including the challenges of dealing with difficult customers, the importance of service industry experience, and the impact of online reviews, particularly Yelp. They share personal anecdotes about customer interactions, the significance of communication, and the role of attitude in both teaching and learning. The discussion also touches on the complexities of consulting and the potential for homeowner rating systems. In this conversation, the speakers discuss various aspects of running a successful pool business, including the benefits of joining the California Pool Association, effective communication strategies with clients, handling negative reviews, and the importance of transparency and collaboration in the industry. They also touch on the hiring process and the significance of vetting employees to ensure a trustworthy team.

takeaways

• Wayne is back and feeling better after being sick.
• Customer experiences can vary greatly, with some being positive and others negative.
• Service industry experience is valuable for understanding customer behavior.
• Communication is key in managing customer expectations and interactions.
• Yelp can be beneficial but also has its drawbacks for service providers.
• Setting clear boundaries with clients is essential for a healthy working relationship.
• Teaching experiences reveal the importance of student attitudes in learning.
• Online education presents unique challenges compared to in-person classes.
• The conversation highlights the need for better homeowner rating systems.
• Attitude plays a crucial role in both customer service and education. California Pool Association offers valuable resources for pool businesses.
• Effective communication can prevent misunderstandings with clients.
• Handling negative reviews requires a strategic approach.
• Transparency with clients fosters trust and loyalty.
• Asking the right questions can help identify potential issues early.
• Building relationships with clients is essential for long-term success.
• Collaboration among pool professionals can enhance the industry as a whole.
• Vetting employees thoroughly is crucial for maintaining quality service.
• Mistakes should be acknowledged and addressed promptly to maintain credibility.
• Creating a positive work environment encourages honesty and accountability.

Sound Bites

• "Yelp can be like the best thing in the world."
• "I want to grow my pool inspection business."
• "I don't like doing one-on-one classes."
• "Don't tell me what my product doe

LaMotte Company
LaMotte Company is a leading manufacturer of water quality testing products & pool test kits

CMAHC
The Council for the Model Aquatic Health Code promotes health & safety at public swimming pools

California Pool Association
Pool Industry Trade Organization

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RATED R FOR LANGUAGE
In this episode of the Talking Pools podcast, hosts Andrea and Paulette discuss various challenges faced in pool maintenance, including frustrations with clients and the impact of environmental factors on pool cleanliness. They also delve into new legislation aimed at improving pool safety to prevent drownings, particularly among children. The conversation touches on the responsibilities of Airbnb hosts regarding pool safety and the need for better regulations in the industry. The episode concludes with a call for listener engagement and feedback.

takeaways

• The importance of maintaining clean pools for client satisfaction.
• Frustrations arise when clients do not assist in pool maintenance.
• New legislation in Florida aims to improve pool safety.
• Drowning statistics highlight the need for better safety measures.
• Airbnb hosts should be held accountable for pool safety.
• Environmental factors can significantly impact pool cleanliness.
• Communication with clients is crucial for effective pool maintenance.
• Hosts should consider the implications of tree coverage on pools.
• The podcast encourages listener interaction and feedback.
• Safety measures for pools should be prioritized in residential areas.

Sound Bites

• "I'm sick of their pools."
• "I got rid of my Airbnb that I have."
• "I don't allow children in my house."

Chapters

00:00
Introduction and Theme Song Ideas

02:47
Pool Maintenance Challenges and Frustrations

06:06
Pool Safety Legislation and Drowning Prevention

12:13
Airbnb Pool Safety Concerns

19:01
Closing Thoughts and Listener Engagement

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In this episode of Talking Pools, the hosts discuss the emerging trend of ice baths, exploring their benefits, health regulations, and the microbiological risks associated with their use. They delve into the differences between fixed and mobile ice baths, the importance of hygiene, and personal experiences with ice baths. The conversation highlights the need for proper guidelines and public health awareness in the growing popularity of ice baths.

takeaways

• Ice baths are becoming increasingly popular for recovery.
• Health regulations around ice baths are still developing.
• Microbiological risks are a significant concern for ice baths.
• Fixed ice baths have better hygiene standards than mobile ones.
• Public health guidelines are essential for safe ice bath use.
• Showering before using ice baths is often neglected.
• Cold water temperatures can inhibit bacterial growth.
• Personal experiences with ice baths vary widely among users.
• Proper maintenance of ice baths is crucial for safety.
• Awareness of source water quality is important for ice bath hygiene.

titles

• The Cold Truth About Ice Baths
• Navigating Ice Bath Regulations
• Microbial Safety in Ice Baths

Sound Bites

• "The wheels of bureaucracy spin slowly."
• "It's in the public interest to be sanitized."
• "Ice baths are a thing, follow the code."
• "What is the source water?"
• "Ice baths are becoming a common thing."
• "Public health guidelines are free."

Chapters

00:00
Introduction and Setting the Scene

01:05
The Rise of Ice Baths

06:02
Health Regulations and Guidelines

11:54
Microbiological Risks in Ice Baths

18:12
Comparative Analysis of Fixed vs Mobile Ice Baths

23:55
Public Perception and Personal Experiences

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In this episode of the Talking Pools podcast, Rudy Stankowitz discusses customer reviews, defamation, and the challenges faced by service providers with Mike Meadows, the founder of Customers Karma. They explore the concept of risk assessment in business, the functionality of Customers Karma as a platform for reporting difficult customers, and the legal and ethical implications of publicly labeling individuals based on their experiences. The conversation delves into the importance of protecting service providers while also considering the rights of customers. In this engaging conversation, Mike and Rudy explore the complexities of customer accountability in the service industry, emphasizing the importance of second chances and the impact of technology on customer experiences. They share real-life stories, discuss the integration of review platforms, and delve into the legal considerations surrounding customer feedback. The dialogue highlights the need for businesses to maintain integrity while navigating the challenges of customer interactions, ultimately advocating for a balanced approach to customer care and business ethics.

takeaways

• Understanding defamation, libel, and slander is crucial for service providers.
• Difficult customers can impact business negatively and need to be addressed.
• Risk assessment is a common practice in various industries.
• Customers Karma aims to help service providers avoid problematic clients.
• The platform requires proof of business ownership for users.
• Anonymous reviews can be left by verified businesses.
• Legal protections exist for platforms hosting user-generated content.
• Ethics of public labeling of customers is a complex issue.
• Forgiveness and redemption are important in business relationships.
• The importance of clear communication and terms with customers. It's essential to draw a line in the sand for accountability.
• Second chances can lead to better outcomes for everyone.
• Real-life experiences shape our understanding of customer behavior.
• Technology can enhance service delivery and customer feedback.
• Global perspectives on customer reviews vary significantly.
• Controversy can be a catalyst for business decisions.
• Legal considerations are crucial when handling customer feedback.
• Building a review platform requires careful planning and execution.
• Unique living experiences can influence business practices.
• Customer care should always be a priority in service industries.

Sound Bites

• "You have to qualify the customer."
• "I lost twice because of that."
• "Buyers are liars."
• "I just jumped in and I just did it."
• "It's all in private, right?"
• "Let's see who wins."
• "I wanted to share a real incident."
• "Everybody likes the gravy job."
• "The customer is number one, man."
• "Check out governmentkarma.com."

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In this episode, we dive into the intricacies of certifications and licensing in the pool and spa service industry, particularly within Australia. Here’s what we explore:

• State-Specific Licensing Laws: The unique regulatory landscape across different Australian states and its impact on pool and spa service professionals.
• Certifications Overview:
  • Certificate III in Pool and Spa Service: A pathway to licensing in some states, emphasizing core skills for technicians.
  • Certificate IV in Pool and Spa Service: A more advanced course focusing on business management and installations, though not a licensing pathway.
  • Aquatic Technical Operator Course: Aligning with the CPO, designed for professionals in commercial aquatic facilities.
• The Licensing Dilemma: Challenges posed by inconsistent enforcement of licensing requirements and the importance of qualifications for commercial contracts.
• Online and In-Person Learning: Flexible, self-paced learning options and the time commitment involved in completing these courses.
• Professionalizing the Industry: Insights into the importance of education, licensing, and proper training for advancing the pool and spa service sector.

Join us as we uncover how these certifications help shape better service standards and provide opportunities for growth in the pool and spa industry.

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