In a recent episode of And So It Flows, KAI Engineering's Mike Tamagni, director of mechanical engineer; Richard Long, senior mechanical engineering subject matter expert; and Khan Pouch, senior mechanical designer, joined Plumbing & Mechanical to discuss how mechanical room design has evolved and what engineers and contractors should consider as systems become more complex.

Get ready for ASPE’s 2026 Convention & Expo in Oklahoma City. This episode explores what attendees can expect from the event, including technical education, the Expo show floor and opportunities to connect with industry peers. Plus, hear tips for first-time attendees, what makes Oklahoma City worth exploring, and where to learn more and register.This episode is brought to you by:

Shower design has come a long way from the days when homeowners simply accepted whichever drain happened to be on the plumber's truck.In this episode of And So It Flows, Mike Rizzuto, National Technical Sales West for Infinity Drain, joins host Kristen Bayles to discuss the evolution of shower and drain design, the rise of linear drains and aging-in-place considerations, and the opportunities available to plumbing contractors, wholesalers and showroom professionals as customers become increasingly involved in the design process.

In honor of National Backflow Prevention Day, Watts Water Technologies’ Michael Gaulin joins the podcast to discuss the essentials of backflow prevention. Learn what causes backflow, common misconceptions, when preventers need attention, how technology is evolving, and what contractors, owners, and suppliers should know about codes and growing this side of their business.

Reins, joined Kristen Bayles for And So It Flows to discuss how employee retention, leadership development and incentive planning can affect the long-term value of a plumbing business. Reins works with independent business owners, particularly in the trades, to create alternative equity arrangements that help retain key employees and align them with the company’s goals.

On this episode of And So It Flows, Kristen Bayles sat down with Gregg Holladay, business development manager for specialty markets at Bradford White, to discuss the growing role heat pump water heaters are expected to play in the residential plumbing market and why contractors need to start preparing now.

In this episode of And So It Flows, Kristen sits down with Roland Ligtenberg, co-founder of Housecall Pro, to explore how technology, AI and shifting workforce dynamics are reshaping the skilled trades. Roland shares insights on the growing appeal of trade careers —especially among Gen Z! — as economic uncertainty and automation reshape traditional white-collar paths.

Upselling is often seen as a bad word in this business, and even the antithesis of why many people joined the trades. Editor Kristen Bayles spoke with Blake Turner, master trainer at Nexstar, to discuss the misconceptions surrounding "upselling," and how through a few simple steps — focusing on communication, presenting options, and helping customers make informed decisions — contractors can improve both the customer experience and their business outcomes, without ever feeling like a salesperson.

As spring approaches, plumbing contractors across the country are preparing for one of their busiest seasons of the year. In this episode of And So It Flows, Kristen Bayles spoke with Jane Blanchard, head of brand and marketing at Service Forge, about a challenge many contractors underestimate: the true cost of missed calls.

LG Director of Heating Sales Renae’ Turnbaugh outlines how high-efficiency water heating solutions provide an effective means to upgrade today’s homes. She clarifies misconceptions about high-efficiency water heating and explores benefits beyond water savings including smart home integration, aesthetics and user-friendly technology.

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