The SpaRetailer Podcast

In this episode of The SpaRetailer Podcast, hosted by Megan Kendrick, the owner of SpaRetailer Magazine, Jim Parker, CEO of Ahh!some Water Care, discusses his journey into the hot tub industry, the development and expansion of his family’s business, and the importance of proper water care. Jim shares insights into the origins of Ahh!some Water Care, initially developed by his father and business partner in 1996, emphasizing its core product for eliminating biofilm in pools and hot tubs. Megan and Jim delve into strategies for educating customers about water care and confronting biofilm build-up, the complications of different testing methods, and the evolving needs and expectations of customers. They also touch upon the operational aspects of taking over a family business, including challenges such as accounting and maintaining effective communication and service standards. The episode concludes with discussions on the value of recurring services for dealers and personal anecdotes about favorite shows, highlighting the overlap of personal and professional dynamics. https://sparetailer.com/feed/podcast/ Show Notes: 00:00 Introduction to the SpaRetailer Podcast01:22 Jim Parker’s Journey into the Hot Tub Industry03:14 The Growth of Ahh!some Water Care04:31 Innovations and Product Development10:06 Understanding Biofilm and Water Care Challenges15:01 Best Practices for Hot Tub Maintenance26:42 Convenience and Customer Service in the Hot Tub Industry31:57 The Amazon Dilemma for Retailers34:02 The Importance of Convenience in Retail35:08 Educational Value in Retail Stores42:13 Transitioning Business Ownership47:48 Challenges and Surprises of Business Ownership53:08 The SpaRetailer Five01:01:36 Conclusion and Podcast Sign-Off

In this episode of The SpaRetailer Podcast, host Megan Kendrick converses with Tom Vaughn, the president of Water’s Choice. Vaughn shares insights about the development and benefits of enzyme-based water care products, the startup challenges with them and the company’s evolution. They also talk about Water’s Choice’s new Buzz Off product for repelling insects around pools and hot tubs using ion technology. Vaughn provides anecdotes from his diverse career, confesses his hardest lessons learned and his penchant for golf and family time as a relaxation outlet. https://sparetailer.com/feed/podcast/ Show Notes: 00:00 Introduction to The SpaRetailer Podcast00:47 Trade Show Adventures and Mishaps02:28 Tom Vaughn’s Journey into the Hot Tub Industry04:12 Discovering and Perfecting Enzyme Products08:29 Challenges and Benefits of Enzyme Use25:30 New Innovations: Buzz Off Ion Shield32:23 Bug Behavior Near the Spa33:03 Challenges with Wind and Evaporation33:30 Pool Cover and Humidity Effects34:49 Introduction to the Inventor and Product35:16 Understanding the Technology36:52 Practical Applications and Customer Feedback40:04 Zone Sprayer for Outdoor Areas43:03 Enzymes and Water Care Benefits49:33 Personal Reflections and Career Insights58:38 Final Thoughts and Podcast Conclusion

This episode of The SpaRetailer Podcast features an insightful conversation between host Megan Kendrick and AJ Cada from Cada Pools and Spas in St. Charles, Illinois. AJ discusses his journey into the pool and spa industry, which began in 2012, as well as the evolution and growth of his family’s business over 45 years. The discussion covers the challenges and benefits of working in a family-run business, the importance of staying updated with industry trends and technologies, and the strategic use of retail space. AJ also highlights their customer service excellence, their innovative greenhouse showroom, and the successful integration of multiple business divisions, from construction and retail to maintenance and service. The podcast concludes with AJ sharing some personal anecdotes about his career and insights into effective business practices. https://sparetailer.com/feed/podcast/ Show Notes: 00:00 Introduction to the Spa Retailer Podcast00:36 Guest Introduction: AJ Cada from Cada Pools and Spas01:58 AJ’s Journey into the Industry03:53 Expanding the Business: New Showroom and Operations05:33 The Origins of Cada Pools and Spas10:53 Family Dynamics in Business12:44 Leadership and Roles within the Company14:38 Hands-On Sales Approach16:00 Celebrating Milestones and Overcoming Challenges17:11 Engaging the Next Generation21:15 Reflecting on the Industry’s Best Years21:34 Adapting to Consumer Feedback21:50 The Surge in Pool Services22:37 Shifts in the Industry During Economic Downturns23:36 The Social Influence of Hot Tubs24:33 Excelling in Customer Service25:15 The Role of Technology in Customer Interaction27:07 Unique Aspects of Cato Pools and Spas27:56 The Importance of Water Chemistry Expertise31:32 Challenges and Successes in the Business33:31 Personal Reflections and Experiences40:50 Final Thoughts and Podcast Conclusion

In this episode of The SpaRetailer Podcast, host Megan Kendrick welcomes back Alex Granlund from King Technology, where they delve into his experiences and observations from recent industry trade shows. They discuss the unique challenges faced at the Western Pool and Spa show and the Atlantic City show, sharing funny and insightful anecdotes. Alex highlights King Technology’s commitment to innovation, detailing the advances made possible by their new state-of-the-art facility and innovation center. He explains the benefits of their at ease products for swim spas and reveals exciting new offerings for pool maintenance. The conversation wraps up with insights into King Technology’s culture and dedication to long-term product development, as well as upcoming promotions and initiatives aimed at supporting dealers and enhancing customer experiences. https://sparetailer.com/feed/podcast/ Show Notes: 00:00 Introduction to The SpaRetailer Podcast00:57 Western Pool and Spa Show Insights02:17 Cold Weather Challenges and Personal Stories04:38 Atlantic City Show Experience08:45 King Technology’s Innovation Center13:41 Adopt A Spot Program and Employee Training21:13 EPA Registration and Product Development27:12 Navigating Regulatory Challenges27:48 The Role of the Regulatory Team29:00 Introduction to Smart Core Technology30:20 Benefits of Smart Core in Swim Spas32:50 New Algae Products for Pools34:03 Innovative Pod Technology39:48 Challenges and Solutions in Product Design45:44 Convenience in Retail and Autoship Programs49:27 Upcoming Promotions and Dealer Support50:43 Personal Anecdotes and Conclusion

In this episode of The SpaRetailer podcast, host Megan Kendrick interviews Steve Hammock, former president of Watkins Wellness. Steve discusses his upbringing as a ‘military brat,’ attending 14 schools, and eventually settling in Southern California. He recounts his entry into the hot tub industry in 1982, his early relationships and travel to find dealers, and the challenges Watkins faced including the Great Recession and a critical material supply issue in the 1990s. The conversation covers the company’s marketing strategies, acquisitions, and the importance of training and customer loyalty. Steve also reflects on his and Watkins Wellness’s milestones, including reaching $100 million in sales and maintaining a decades-long partnership with Masco Corporation. The podcast concludes with Steve sharing insights on his retirement life, maintaining industry relationships, and the future of the hot tub industry focusing on wellness benefits. https://sparetailer.com/feed/podcast/ Show Notes: 00:00 Introduction to The SpaRetailer Podcast00:47 Meet Steve Hammack: From Military Brat to Hot Tub Hall of Fame01:09 Early Life and Career Beginnings04:19 Entering the Hot Tub Industry05:40 Building Watkins Wellness: The Early Days07:56 Challenges and Strategies in Marketing Hot Tubs10:05 The Road to Success: Dealer Recruitment and Expansion21:49 Innovations and Engineering in Hot Tub Design38:33 Embracing Naivety in Business39:34 The Importance of Customer Loyalty43:40 The Sale to Masco54:27 Navigating Industry Challenges01:10:10 Reflections on a Career in the Hot Tub Industry01:13:01 Retirement and Personal Insights

In this episode of The SpaRetailer Podcast, host Megan Kendrick interviews Edie Bukenya, owner of Crested Crane Interiors, about her work in store design, specifically for hot tub retail spaces. Bukenya shares her journey from an architecture design firm to launching her business during the COVID pandemic, largely influenced by her work with Don Riling of Olympic Hot Tub. Edie discusses essential elements that enhance customer experience in hot tub showrooms, such as good lighting, decluttering, and using natural elements like real plants. She emphasizes the importance of creating a welcoming and functional space that reflects the luxury of the products sold. The conversation also covers the practical aspects of working within different budget constraints and layout challenges. Edie highlights how attention to detail in areas like sound, material choices, and overall cleanliness can significantly improve the customer experience and build trust. The episode concludes with Edie talking about gaining inspiration from everyday environments and past projects. https://sparetailer.com/feed/podcast/ Show Notes: 00:00 Introduction to the Spa Retailer Podcast00:37 Meet Edie Bukenya: Interior Design Expert01:39 Bukenya’s Journey into the Hot Tub Industry03:14 The Impact of COVID-19 on Edie’s Career04:09 Growing Crested Crane Interiors05:56 Bukenya’s Entrepreneurial Spirit07:23 Designing for Various Client Needs08:57 The Importance of Professional Design10:10 Creating a Welcoming Showroom Experience13:22 Balancing Luxury and Accessibility15:31 Key Questions for Store Design18:16 Working Within Different Budgets20:49 Essential Elements for Hot Tub Showrooms24:50 The Importance of Cleanliness in Showrooms26:44 Creating a Welcoming Atmosphere with Sound and Plants31:31 Design Tips for Hot Tub Showrooms34:29 Challenges and Strategies in Showroom Layout40:03 The Value of Expert Design in Retail Spaces42:45 Expanding Design Expertise Beyond Hot Tubs44:59 Remote Design and Finding Inspiration50:54 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this episode of The SpaRetailer Podcast, host Megan Kendrick, owner of SpaRetailer magazine, brings back Shawna Mesher, director of sales and marketing at Evosus, to discuss strategies for planning and executing successful sales events in the hot tub industry. Shawna shares her insights on the importance of events, drawing from her experience with Oregon Hot Tub and Nordstrom. She emphasizes the need for creating urgency and building excitement among both salespeople and consumers. Shawna offers specific tips on running Black Friday events, including setting clear timelines, leveraging accessory packages, capturing leads, and maintaining urgency. The conversation also covers offsite sales events, highlighting the importance of strategic location selection, effective budgeting, and targeted marketing. Shawna concludes by stressing the need for fun and engagement in sales processes and mentions that Evasys provides consulting services to help businesses with sales training and process development. https://sparetailer.com/feed/podcast/ Show Notes: 00:00 Introduction to The SpaRetailer Podcast01:05 The Importance of Events in the Hot Tub Industry03:09 Building Excitement and Fear of Loss05:50 Creating Urgency and Incentives22:43 Strategies for Offsite Events27:14 Secure Payment and Sales Process27:35 Efficient Sales Order Entry27:51 Customer Interaction and Follow-Up28:58 Pre-Event Preparation31:24 Sales Team Dynamics41:42 Event Marketing Strategies45:23 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this episode of The SpaRetailer Podcast, host Megan Kendrick interviews Shandi Evertsen, the General Manager of Tropical Spas in St. George, Utah. Shandi shares her background in hospitality management and how the pandemic led her to transition into the hot tub industry. She details the rapid growth and sale of Tropical Spas, as well as the challenges faced, including a devastating fire that occurred shortly after the business changed hands. The fire destroyed 70 hot tubs and the showroom, but thanks to the community’s support and the team’s resilience, they were back in business within days. Shandi discusses the steps taken to modernize the business, including implementing new software systems and rebuilding the showroom. Despite the many challenges, Shandi highlights the growth, teamwork, and resilience that have characterized Tropical Spas’ journey. https://sparetailer.com/feed/podcast/ Show Notes: 00:00 Welcome to the Spa Retailer Podcast01:01 Shandi Evertsen’s Journey into the Hot Tub Industry05:04 Life in St. George, Utah07:12 The History of Tropical Spas10:59 The Devastating Fire Incident19:22 Rebuilding Challenges and Solutions20:45 Community Support and Resilience21:49 Back in Business: New Showroom23:00 Operational Adjustments and Goals24:46 Software Integration Struggles27:54 Hot Tub Sales and Customer Experience29:33 Leadership and Team Dynamics33:31 Reflecting on Changes and Challenges35:00 Serendipitous Encounters and Growth37:01 Favorite Resources and Final Thoughts

In this episode of The SpaRetailer Podcast, host Megan Kendrick speaks with Jerome Landry, a product manager at Gecko Alliance. They discuss Gecko’s latest innovation, the waterlab — an inline water testing device for hot tubs. Jerome shares insights into the product’s development, how it simplifies water chemistry for users and its impact on the hot tub industry. He also delves into his background in the tech industry and the collaborative approach taken by Gecko for product development. The conversation highlights the importance of modernizing the hot tub industry and meeting consumer needs through technological advancements. Tune in to learn more about how the Waterlab can enhance hot tub ownership and business operations. https://sparetailer.com/feed/podcast/ Show Notes: 00:00 Introduction to the SpaRetailer Podcast00:38 Meet Jerome Landry from Gecko00:51 Gecko’s New Waterlab Product01:27 Jerome’s Background and Journey02:47 The Technology Hub of Quebec03:30 Gecko’s Roadmap and Innovations04:51 Developing the Waterlab07:39 How the Waterlab Works11:04 Installation and Compatibility13:38 The ability for dealers to access data from the end-user is not yet available, but it is a feature coming soon.15:52 Future Developments and Connectivity18:27 The Modernization of Spa Technology18:50 Innovations in Water Chemistry and Energy Efficiency19:23 Challenges in Product Development19:53 Collaborative Approach to Development20:31 Geographical Differences in User Needs22:17 Launching New Products26:38 The SpaRetailer Five28:41 Personal Insights and Interests34:22 Conclusion and Future Outlook

In this episode, guests Larry Ovalle, vice president of innovation and technology, and Erica Moir, senior vice president of design, engineering and product marketing at Jacuzzi, discuss the development and features of True Water, a revolutionary water care system. The True Water System utilizes nanobubble technology to maintain cleaner water with significantly less chemical usage and effort from the consumer. Over a three-year development period, the team conducted extensive testing, including partnering with the University of Maine and external labs, to validate the effectiveness of the nanobubbles. The result is a system that keeps hot tub water clear, reduces chemical use to below drinking water levels, and mitigates common water care issues like skin irritations and tedious maintenance. The conversation highlights the ease of use, conservation benefits, and innovative nature of this new product. Read more > https://sparetailer.com/feed/podcast/ Show notes Revolutionizing Hot Tub Water Care: A Deep Dive into Jacuzzi’s True Water System 00:00 Introduction to the Spa Retailer Podcast 00:36 Meet the Guests: Larry Ovalle and Erica Moir 00:53 Introducing the Jacuzzi True Water System 02:12 The Evolution of Water Care Technology 04:30 Challenges and Innovations in Water Treatment 06:20 The Science Behind Nano Bubbles 09:50 Real-World Applications and Testing 17:18 User Experience and Feedback 23:12 Future of the True Water System 31:48 Conclusion and Final Thoughts