The SpaRetailer Podcast

https://sparetailer.com/feed/podcast/

In this episode of The SpaRetailer Podcast, host Megan Kendrick sits down with Royce Manuelo, the brand and product development manager from PAL Lighting based in Houston, Texas. Manuelo shares his journey from marketing various products to specializing in the lighting industry, ultimately making commercial lighting exciting. They discuss the evolution of pool and spa lighting and its significant impact on creating a bespoke and emotionally resonant backyard experience. Manuelo highlights PAL Lighting’s mission to ‘own the backyard’ by offering integrated lighting systems that sync with music and create relaxing environments. He encourages hot tub retailers to consider landscape lighting as part of their offerings to enhance the overall customer experience. Manuelo also recounts his first job, marketing insights, and the importance of understanding customer emotions in sales. This episode is a deep dive into how innovative lighting solutions can transform outdoor living spaces. https://sparetailer.com/feed/podcast/ Show Notes with Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction to the Spa Retailer Podcast00:36 Meet Royce Manuelo from PAL Lighting01:31 Royce’s Journey into the Lighting Industry03:13 PAL Lighting’s Innovations and Market Expansion06:11 The Importance of Lighting in Backyard Design11:25 Integrating Lighting Solutions for Hot Tub Retailers21:12 Support and Resources for Retailers22:21 Introduction to the Spa Retailer Five23:42 First Job Experiences26:05 Marketing Failures and Lessons Learned30:57 Marketing Success Stories35:58 Favorite Books and Podcasts38:35 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this episode of The SpaRetailer Podcast, Megan Kendrick interviews Fred Bachmann, owner of Bachmann’s Pools, Spas and Saunas in Wisconsin. They discuss Fred’s journey from a building contractor to a prominent figure in the hot tub industry. Fred delves into his early challenges, including renovating his showrooms during COVID and acquiring a failing business, which eventual turned out to be beneficial. Fred also shares insights into how aggressive marketing, top-notch service, and rigorous staff training have driven the store’s continued growth. Winning the Locksin Thompson Award affirmed their success. Additionally, Fred highlights his interest in cold plunge products and ambitious plans for his business’s future. https://sparetailer.com/feed/podcast/ Show Notes with Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome00:13 Showroom Success and Awards01:44 Store Renovations During COVID02:22 Fred’s Background and Entry into the Hot Tub Industry03:37 Early Business Challenges and Growth09:46 Marketing Strategies and Turning Points12:51 Expansion and Real Estate Investments15:25 Navigating the 2008 Recession16:23 COVID-19 Impact and Adaptations23:48 Post-COVID Growth and Future Outlook27:50 Navigating Supply Chain Challenges28:27 The Impact of Tariffs on Pricing30:02 Consumer Demand for Hot Tubs30:18 Marketing Strategies and Industry Trends32:06 The Rise of Cold Plunges37:48 Training and Development40:05 Future Business Plans41:30 Winning the Locksin and Thompson Award43:18 Personal Reflections and Insights50:43 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this episode of The SpaRetailer Podcast, Jamie Burson, the owner of Great Bay Spa and Sauna in New England, shares his journey from starting at the company at 20 years old, working in the warehouse, and dreaming of one day owning the business. Despite challenges like the COVID-19 pandemic, Burson managed to purchase the company in 2021. He discusses the company’s founding by three college friends in 1976 and its growth over the years. Burson also talks about the recent expansion efforts, including opening a new showroom in South Portland, and the strategic changes he’s made to adapt to market demands. https://sparetailer.com/feed/podcast/ Show Notes with Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Guest00:32 Jamie’s Journey: From Warehouse to Ownership01:24 The Challenges of Buying a Business During COVID03:46 The Origins of Great Bay Spa and Sauna09:07 The Hot Tub Industry: A Personal Connection16:30 Expanding the Business: New Showroom in Portland24:54 Designing the Perfect Showroom26:25 Showroom Innovations and Wet Testing28:58 Challenges of Transitioning from Employee to Owner32:06 Navigating Market Volatility and Strategic Adjustments35:56 Marketing Strategies for New Markets42:42 Future Goals and Reflections44:03 Spot Retailer Five Questions

In this episode of The SpaRetailer Podcast, host Megan Kendrick, owner of SpaRetailer Magazine, chats with Craig Selvidge, who retired from Bullfrog Spas in 2024. Selvidge shares his extensive experience in the hot tub industry, starting in the 1970s following a fire that destroyed his marine business. He discusses the evolution from wooden hot tubs to fiberglass and acrylic spas, and his role in developing and popularizing swim spas. Selvidge details the challenges of early swim spa designs and innovations, as well as his various roles at companies like Marquis, Dimension One, Jacuzzi and Bullfrog Spas. The conversation highlights Selvidge’s contributions to the industry and his multiple retirements, each filled with unique projects and adventures. https://sparetailer.com/feed/podcast/ Show Notes with Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction to the Spa Retailer Podcast00:36 Craig Sage’s Retirement and Early Career01:13 The Beginnings of Swim Spas03:03 From Boats to Hot Tubs05:52 The Rise of Wooden Hot Tubs07:42 Innovations in Hot Tub Design12:11 The Birth of Swim Spas13:37 Concrete Swim Spas and Early Designs15:31 Fiberglass and Acrylic Swim Spas16:21 Challenges and Successes in Swim Spa Manufacturing16:50 The Evolution of Swim Spa Technology21:51 Marketing and Selling Swim Spas23:57 The Growth of the Swim Spa Market26:05 Modern Swim Spa Developments30:27 Bullfrog Spas and Industry Insights32:16 Starting Water Aerobics with My 10-Year-Old32:53 Fiberglass to Acrylic Transition in Swim Spas36:23 The First Portable Spas41:15 Innovations in Swim Spa Jets46:01 Career Journey in the Spa Industry51:01 Retirement Adventures and Final Thoughts

In this episode of The SpaRetailer Podcast, hosted by Megan Kendrick, Dustin Hutcheson, a wellness consultant at Hot Spring Spas of Iowa and Minnesota, shares his journey in the hot tub industry. Hutcheson discusses the origins of the company, originally started by Paul Schaben in 1968 as an agricultural business, and how it evolved into a successful hot tub dealership with seven stores. He details his transition from car sales to selling hot tubs, accents the importance of personal branding and utilizing social media in sales, and highlights his company’s focus on customer service and comprehensive follow-up. Hutcheson also shares insights on the benefits of wellness products like hot tubs, saunas and cold plunges based on his personal usage. Challenges and lessons learned from events like the Bacon Festival are discussed alongside successes in leveraging promotional ideas. The interview concludes with Hutcheson’s reflections on continuous learning and personal development in sales. https://sparetailer.com/feed/podcast/ Show Notes with Timestamps: 00:00 – Dustin Hutcheson Podcast00:58 – Company History and Origins04:58 – Dustin’s Entry into Hot Tub Sales08:25 – The Story Behind the ‘Charmer’ Nickname10:08 – Building a Personal Brand in Sales11:58 – Sales Philosophy and Personal Background31:03 – Hot Tub Health Benefits and Product Experience35:53 – Surprises in the Hot Tub Industry40:40 – Company Success Factors48:39 – The SpaRetailer Five Question

Join host Megan as she welcomes back Ravi Kurani, founder and president of Sutro, for an in depth conversation on innovation in the pool and spa industry. Kurani shares updates on Sutro’s journey, including new product integrations, company growth, and personal milestones. The discussion covers the evolution of water chemistry technology, the impact of industry changes, and practical advice for both professionals and consumers. https://sparetailer.com/feed/podcast/ Show Notes 00:00 – Introduction and WelcomeMegan introduces the episode and welcomes guest Ravi Kurani. 00:41 – About Sutro and Company BackgroundRavi explains Sutro’s unique liquid-based reagent technology, company history, and recent partnerships. 02:31 – Personal Updates: Move to New York and WeddingRavi shares personal milestones, including his move to New York and recent wedding. 12:55 – Industry Changes and Company AcquisitionDiscussion on Sutro’s acquisition, industry shifts, and adapting to new business models. 21:32 – Product Development and InnovationRavi details the process of product design, the importance of solving real customer problems, and the evolution of Sutro’s technology. 28:37 – Technical Deep Dive: Liquid Reagents vs. ORP SensorsRavi provides practical advice on water chemistry measurement and explains the differences between PPM and ORP sensors. 35:00 – Looking Ahead: Future Plans and Closing ThoughtsRavi discusses future projects, growth strategies, and offers a teaser about new developments for pool stores.

In this episode of The SpaRetailer Podcast, host Megan interviews Kayla Hagan, associate product marketing manager at King Technology. Kayla shares her journey into the pool and spa industry, discusses her role in new product development, and provides insights into King Technology’s latest innovations, including the Balancing Basics Kit and the FROG VIP program. The conversation covers the importance of water care, the challenges faced by new hot tub owners and how King Technology supports both consumers and pro dealers. Kayla also reflects on her career path, experiences at trade shows and offers advice for women entering the industry. https://sparetailer.com/feed/podcast/ Show Notes: 00:00 Introduction to Kayla Hagan from King Technology 01:20 Kayla’s Journey to the Pool and Spa Industry 02:55 Tour of King Technology’s New Facility 08:31 Introducing the New Balancing Basics Kit 14:10 FROG VIP Program Details 28:01 Personal Experience and Career Background 34:52 Wrap Up and Trade Show Discussion

In this episode of The SpaRetailer Podcast, host Megan Kendrick talks with Travis Hogan, owner of Fiesta Pools and Spas in Tulsa, Oklahoma. They discuss how Travis got into the hot tub and pool business, starting from his humble beginnings in pool maintenance to eventually purchasing and expanding Fiesta Pools. Travis shares insights on business challenges, including transitioning into a well-established company at a young age, learning servant leadership, and implementing strategic planning to expand and adapt the business. They also delve into the importance of convenience for customers and the impact of recent economic changes, like tariffs. Additionally, Travis discusses his passion for real estate and how it complements his retail business. The episode emphasizes the significance of creating a positive company culture, making informed business decisions, and continually learning and adapting in a competitive market. https://sparetailer.com/feed/podcast/ Show Notes: 00:00 Welcome to the Spa Retailer Podcast00:41 Meet Travis Hogan of Fiesta Pools and Spas01:11 A Field Trip to Fiesta Pools01:31 The Value of Business Travel03:38 Diverse Offerings at Fiesta Pools04:58 Travis Hogan’s Journey into the Hot Tub Business09:26 The Importance of Real Estate in Business17:37 Challenges and Lessons in Business Ownership21:00 The Role of Servant Leadership31:48 Building a Support Network38:48 Expanding Fiesta Pools and Spas44:05 Navigating Real Estate and Rent Challenges44:56 The Importance of Convenience in Consumer Behavior46:09 Adapting to COVID-19 and Changing Retail Landscape48:03 Balancing Proximity and Technology in Retail50:15 Facing Industry Transitions and Uncertainties55:08 Managing Tariffs and Pricing Strategies58:33 Reflecting on Business Decisions and Growth01:05:10 Lessons from Early Jobs and Business Ventures01:08:38 The Value of Core Values and Leadership01:11:37 Book Recommendations and Personal Insights01:16:54 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this episode of The SpaRetailer Podcast, host Megan Kendrick interviews Scott Gettings, co-owner of Hot Tub Superstore, which has locations in Reno, Vegas, and Scottsdale, Arizona. Scott shares his background coming from the car business and how he transitioned into the hot tub industry through a partnership with his roommate and now business partner, Dan. They discuss the importance of consistent sales training, strategic planning around economic and political climates, and the challenges of expanding into new markets. Scott also emphasizes the significance of community involvement and maintaining a local business feel, along with navigating the complexities of financing and the importance of having complementary skills in a business partnership. This episode provides valuable insights into business growth, market expansion, and the operational intricacies of running multiple retail locations in the hot tub industry. https://sparetailer.com/feed/podcast/ Show Notes: 00:00 Introduction to the SpaRetailer Podcast00:36 Meet Scott Gettings: From Cars to Hot Tubs01:05 Scott’s Background and Family Life02:16 Transition from Car Business to Hot Tub Industry03:46 Partnership Dynamics and Business Growth05:34 Navigating the Hot Tub Market During the Pandemic07:11 Sales Strategies and Training11:03 Expansion Plans and Market Challenges17:42 Local Business Strategies and Community Engagement20:39 Financing Options and Industry Insights21:57 Balancing Business Models: High Volume vs. High Margin23:31 The Importance of Business Identity and Customer Service23:54 Economic Climate and Financing Options27:03 Navigating Business Partnerships30:52 Challenges and Rewards of Business Expansion37:57 Lessons Learned: Product Failures and Successes40:43 Managing Remote Stores and Leveraging Technology41:39 Recommended Reads for Business Owners42:41 Conclusion and Final Thoughts