Pool Nation Podcast

E-222 Pool Nation Podcast -Building Teams, Elevating the Industry, and the Power of Networking

In episode 222 of the Pool Nation Podcast, Edgar, John, and special guests from AquaStar Pool Products—Todd Pierre, Korey Wax, and Michael Krause—talk about the exciting developments at AquaStar, the power of networking, and the importance of investing in people to elevate the pool industry.
The conversation highlights the incredible impact of education, the need to stay out of your comfort zone, and the life-changing benefits of building strong connections in the industry. Michael shares his inspirational journey from running First Response Pools to becoming the Brand Manager at AquaStar, while Corey emphasizes the value of mentorship and personal growth. The team also dives into their experiences at the Pool Nation Conference, the power of training, and their collaboration as the "New Three" with AquaStar, Raypak, and Poolside Tech.
They close out with heartfelt reflections on friendship, collaboration, and the shared vision of making the pool industry better for all.
Episode Highlights:[00:00:00] Intro: Welcome to Pool Nation Podcast! Edgar introduces the show and today’s guests: Todd Pierre, Korey Wax, and Michael Krause from AquaStar.
[00:01:00] AquaStar Team Dynamics: Discussion about AquaStar’s growing team, their culture, and their commitment to innovation and the pool pro community.
[00:11:00] Corey’s Story: Korey shares his journey in the pool industry, from Leslie’s Pool Supply to AquaStar, and the mentors who shaped his career.
[00:28:00] The Power of Training: Reflections on the impact of the Pool Nation Conference and the importance of hands-on education.
[00:39:00] Michael’s Journey: Michael talks about transitioning from running First Response Pools to becoming AquaStar’s Brand Manager and the importance of networking.
[01:04:00] Networking Stories: Edgar shares inspiring stories about networking from the Pool Nation Conference and how it changes lives.
[01:17:00] Final Thoughts: Korey and Michael reflect on staying humble, staying uncomfortable, and the importance of elevating the industry.
[01:25:00] Gratitude: Edgar and John express heartfelt appreciation for the AquaStar team and the power of collaboration.

E-221 Pool Nation Podcast - The Best of Pool Nation Podcast

Episode 221 of the Pool Nation podcast this special "Best of the Pool Nation Podcast" episode, Edgar, John, and Zac share some of their favorite moments, funniest exchanges, and insightful discussions that have made the show a go-to for pool pros everywhere. From tales of industry challenges and client stories to networking tips and event highlights, this episode is a celebration of the Pool Nation community and the power of connecting with others in the pool industry. Tune in for a blend of laughs, valuable insights, and stories that keep us all coming back for more.

E-220 Building Your Network – Tools to building your Business Networking Group

Episode Title: Building Bridges – The Power of Business Networking
In episode 220 of the Pool Nation Podcast, Edgar, John, and Zac discuss the importance of business networking and how building relationships can lead to opportunities and personal growth. They also share their own experiences, preparation for the upcoming Pool Nation Awards and Conference, and humorous anecdotes about interactions with clients. The conversation emphasizes the value of stepping out of your comfort zone to foster genuine connections in the industry.
Time Stamps:
0:00 - 6:20: Introduction and host welcome; discussion of event preparations and logistics for the Pool Nation Awards.
6:21 - 16:30: Zach’s health update and handling pre-awards stress; insights on balancing professional and personal responsibilities.
16:31 - 28:00: John reflects on personal growth and maintaining business readiness; importance of teamwork.
28:01 - 33:00: Edgar introduces the Pool Nation Conference and highlights the new Business Bar concept.
33:01 - 45:00: The value of networking at the Heritage Pool Pro Appreciation Event and fostering industry connections.
45:01 - 55:00: Shout-outs to sponsors and prize announcements for the Pool Nation Awards.
55:01 - 1:05:00: Humorous client communication stories from John; examples of handling customer inquiries.
1:05:01 - 1:17:00: Final thoughts on networking, building trust, and responses to listener interactions.

E-219 Pool Nation Podcast Meet the Pool Nation Awards’ Pool Girl of the Year Nominees

Episode 219 of the Pool Nation Podcast, where we dive deep into the pool industry’s latest updates, trends, and professional journeys. Join hosts Edgar de Jesus, John JJ Flawless, and Zach "the Pool Boy" Nicholas as they talk with special guests Jennifer Melee, Kristen Mello, Megan Hightower, and Alicia Rowe. These remarkable women share their inspiring journeys, industry insights, and experiences as nominees for Pool Girl of the Year at the Pool Nation Awards.
Episode Breakdown:
[00:00:00] – IntroEdgar introduces the Pool Nation podcast and welcomes guests Jennifer, Kristen, Megan, and Alicia. Shoutouts to podcast visionary partners and a fun banter with Zach about his productivity surge.
[00:05:00] – Kristen Melo’s JourneyKristen shares her career path in the pool industry, her emphasis on education, and the company growth achieved through training and certifications. The importance of standing out in the industry is highlighted.
[00:24:00] – Megan Hightower’s StoryMegan explains how she joined her partner Jordan in the pool industry, from the initial challenges to her passion for building and growing their business together in Nevada.
[00:37:00] – Jennifer Mele’s Pool Nation Family ConnectionJennifer recounts her journey with her husband, Chris, in the industry, emphasizing the support from the Pool Nation family and the motivation to provide high-quality pool service.
[00:47:00] – Alicia Rowe’s BackgroundAlicia discusses her transition from the equine industry to pool service ownership, her experiences managing a commercial-focused business, and her goals for the company’s future.
[01:02:00] – Awards and Final ThoughtsEdgar reminds everyone about the upcoming Pool Nation Awards, and the team discusses the significance of industry recognition and the supportive community of pool professionals.
[01:08:00] – Sponsors and Pool Nation Conference DetailsDetails about the upcoming Pool Nation Conference and the special hands-on learning opportunities it will offer, along with a thank-you to sponsors supporting the podcast and conference.
Don't miss this inspiring conversation filled with laughter, learning, and heartfelt reflections on the pool industry. Catch the full episode wherever you listen to podcasts, and see you at the Pool Nation Conference in Dallas, Texas!

E-218 Pool Nation Podcast Business Growth: Franchise vs. Independent and Unlocking Employee Training Success

In episode 218 of the Pool Nation Podcast, Edgar, John, and Zach dive deep into important industry topics, answer listener questions, and introduce new concepts for the upcoming Pool Nation Conference. They discuss the pros and cons of starting a pool service business from scratch versus buying into a franchise, offering valuable insights for those considering entrepreneurship in the pool industry. John also shares his experience with providing pool cleaners as part of the service package and how it impacts business efficiency. Edgar offers a sneak peek into the innovative Poolman University platform, which is designed to standardize training for pool professionals. As always, the hosts share exciting updates about the Pool Nation Conference, Awards, and much more.
Episode Highlights:
[00:00] - Intro: Edgar, John, and Zac kick off the podcast with a warm welcome and industry updates.
[02:30] - Listener shout-outs and Edgar’s latest ideas: Shout-outs to Jeanette and Lindsay, with Edgar sharing a new idea that sparks conversation.
[10:00] - John’s busy season update: John talks about preparing pools as customers arrive for the winter season and how business picks up in October.
[15:45] - Franchise vs. independent pool business: The team answers a listener’s question about whether to start a pool business from scratch or buy a franchise. Edgar shares insights from a conversation with Andrew Kidd, CEO of Poolworks.
[30:15] - Pool cleaners: John explains his approach to providing pool cleaners for clients, how it improves service efficiency, and whether cleaners should be provided or sold to customers.
[45:00] - Poolman University sneak peek: Edgar reveals exciting details about Poolman University, a training platform for pool professionals to onboard and train their teams efficiently, complete with quizzes and progress tracking.
[52:00] - Pool Nation Conference and Awards: The hosts provide updates on the upcoming Pool Nation Conference, Heritage Pool Pro Appreciation event, and a growing list of Pool Nation Award nominees.
[57:00] - Shout-outs and closing: Final thoughts and thanks to the podcast’s visionary sponsors, including Ultimate Pool Tools, Raypak, AquaStar, and more.
Join us for this informative episode packed with practical tips, insights, and the latest happenings in the pool industry!

E-217 Pool Nation Podcast - Mastering Business Operational Efficiencies

In Episode 217 of the Pool Nation Podcast, Edgar, John, and Zac continue their discussion on operational efficiencies to help pool professionals optimize their businesses. They cover essential topics such as route planning, billing automation, and the importance of comprehensive training programs. The team also talks about empowering employees through education and practical application, offering real-life examples of how training can improve customer service and overall business performance.
Tune in to learn key strategies to make your business more efficient and your team more confident. Plus, don’t miss the shoutout to a young pool pro, Keegan from Riverside, California, who's attending the Pool Nation Conference for the first time.
Timestamps:
[00:00:00] – Introduction: Edgar, John, and Zac kick off the episode with a discussion about the Pool Nation Conference and shoutouts to Keegan.
[00:05:00] – Keegan’s Journey: Shoutout to Keegan from Riverside, California, attending his first Pool Nation Conference.
[00:08:00] – Pool Nation Conference Overview: Hands-on learning, business insights, and networking opportunities.
[00:14:00] – Operational Efficiencies: Route planning and the impact of inefficiencies on your business.
[00:15:00] – Zac’s Route Planning Strategies: Time management, safety, and minimizing wear and tear.
[00:20:00] – Automating Billing: The importance of automating invoicing and payment collection for cash flow management.
[00:25:00] – Best Practices for Billing: The role of consistency in billing and empowering customers to pay on time.
[00:30:00] – Employee Training Programs: Developing comprehensive training that covers customer service, technical skills, and company values.
[00:32:00] – Creating Effective Training Programs: The value of having structured, interactive training to engage employees.
[00:37:00] – Leveraging Manufacturers and Vendors: How to use external resources like reps and manufacturers to enhance training.
[00:45:00] – Practical Application in Training: Hands-on training that directly impacts the day-to-day work of technicians.
[00:50:00] – Role-Playing for Customer Service: How role-playing scenarios can help employees better handle customer interactions.
[00:57:00] – Final Thoughts: Continuous learning, the importance of education, and preparing for the Pool Nation Conference.
Sponsors:
Ultimate Pool Tools
The SPPA
BluRay XL
AquaStar Pool Products
Natural Chemistry
Raypak
Hayward

E-216 Pool Nation Podcast -Behind the Scenes with 2024 Nominees for Pool Sales Rep of the Year

In episode 216 of the Pool Nation Podcast, Edgar, John, and Zac—bring on a panel of nominees for the 2024 Pool Sales Rep of the Year award. The episode is filled with engaging banter, humorous moments, and a deeper look into the pool industry's sales reps and their journeys.
Here are some key moments with time stamps:
[00:00] - Introduction: Edgar kicks off the podcast with a lively welcome and introduces the co-hosts and the guest of the day, Spider. The crew sets a fun tone right from the start.
[05:30] - Panel of Nominees: Edgar introduces the nominees for Pool Sales Rep of the Year—Brian Chrissan, Johnny Davis, Andrew Ragland, and Daniel Nicholas.
[09:15] - Brian's Introduction: Brian dives into his journey in the industry, reflecting on his career path, lessons learned, and how building relationships with fellow professionals shaped his success.
[18:00] - Andrew's Story: Andrew shares his experience starting in the industry, working for Hayward, and the importance of building a network with customers and colleagues.
[30:10] - Fun Moments: The crew shares some hilarious stories about Christmas cards featuring Brian in unique poses, highlighting the fun and camaraderie that exists among industry reps.
[45:25] - Daniel's Journey: Daniel takes us through his extensive 30-year career in the pool industry, emphasizing how he moved from service to manufacturing and the value of relationships in the business.
[1:05:40] - Johnny Davis: Johnny talks about his consulting business, The Grit Game, and his dedication to helping small and medium-sized businesses grow in the pool industry.
[1:25:20] - Advice for New Pool Pros: Edgar and John discuss the importance of sales reps in building a successful pool business, offering advice for new pool professionals to reach out and network with industry reps.
[1:45:30] - Final Thoughts: Spider wraps up with his insights on the pool industry, while the hosts give their final thoughts, praising the nominees and encouraging pool pros to build their networks.
This episode is packed with industry insights, funny stories, and genuine camaraderie, making it a must-listen for anyone looking to learn more about the role of sales reps in the pool industry.

E-215 Pool Nation Podcast - Business Scaling and Financial Goals with Josh Sandler

Episode 215 of the Pool Nation Podcast Edgar, Zac and John host Josh Sandler, CEO of Gold Medal Pools. They dive into a range of topics, including Josh's incredible legacy story in the pool industry, beginning with his father and continuing to his own leadership today. Josh shares key business insights, such as the importance of employee and customer retention, scaling a business, and creating operational excellence.
Timestamp Highlights:
[00:00:00] - Intro to the Pool Nation podcast
[00:05:00] - Josh’s story of Gold Medal Pools and building a family legacy
[00:22:00] - How Gold Medal Pools thrived during the 2008 recession
[00:39:00] - Discussion on the impact of COVID-19 and the Texas Freeze on the business
[00:55:00] - Behind the scenes: How Josh and his team use data to drive business success
[01:05:00] - Importance of employee empowerment and operational efficiency
[01:15:00] - How to focus on pricing, cost of goods, and building profitable relationships with customers
[01:25:00] - Josh’s vision for giving back to the pool industry and creating long-term business strategies
Josh emphasizes the power of servant leadership, scaling with intention, and the significance of building long-term customer and employee relationships. The podcast also serves as a build-up to his involvement in upcoming Pool Nation Conference business classes, where he’ll share strategies for growth, financials, and an exit strategy.

E-214 Pool Nation Podcast - From 80 Pools to 1300 they share it all. Nominees for the 30 Under 40 Awards

In episode 214 of the Pool Nation Podcast! Today, Edgar is joined by John "JJ Flawless" and Zac "The Pool Boy" Nicholas, along with special co-host Megan Kendrick from Pool Pro Magazine. This week’s episode features a special discussion with James Broderick, Aidan Dunn, and Nick LaPointe, nominees for the prestigious Pool Nation Awards – 30 Under 40 Pool Pro of the Year category.
Discussion Highlights:
[00:02:00] Megan talks about her journey with Pool Pro Magazine, her podcast experience, and admiration for great interviewers.
[00:03:00] James Broderick joins the conversation, sharing his experiences as a one-man show pool service business in North Carolina and how he balances his business responsibilities while maintaining strong customer relationships.
[00:06:00] Aidan Dunn from San Diego jumps in to talk about his experiences growing his family business and winning multiple industry awards, including the 2023 Pool Nation Pool Guy of the Year.
[00:10:00] Edgar discusses the upcoming Pool Nation Conference at the PSP Expo, where attendees can look forward to hands-on classes, networking opportunities, and learning tracks designed to enhance technical, business, and retail skills.
[00:17:00] Nick LaPointe shares insights into running a 1,300-account pool service company, partnering with his long-time friend Ray, and their unique business model. He also discusses the Pool & Spa Apprenticeship Training and his commitment to employee growth.
[00:32:00] Edgar, Megan, and the nominees discuss the importance of community in the pool industry, fostering relationships between service pros, and supporting one another to elevate the trade as a whole.
Wrap-up:
[01:12:00] Megan wraps up with final thoughts, mentioning the new Pool Pro Magazine issue featuring Pool Nation, and encourages everyone to attend the upcoming Pool Nation Awards and other exciting events at the PSP Expo in Dallas.
[01:28:00] Closing remarks, including a shout-out to Jake from Jake’s Pool Care, another 30 Under 40 nominee who specializes in pool startups.

E-213 Pool Nation Podcast - Breaking Down the 2024 Pool Nation Awards Nominees & Industry Insights

In episode 213 of the Pool Nation Podcast, Edgar, John, and Zac return to break down the nominees for the 2024 Pool Nation Awards. The team dives into key categories and shares excitement for the upcoming event. They also touch on Zach’s recent adventures in Idaho, John's fitness journey, and the latest news on the Heritage Pool Pro Appreciation Event, which will feature hands-on training and the new Apple Bar concept for pool professionals. Join the fun as they share personal stories, industry insights, and a whole lot of laughter.
Episode Breakdown:
[00:00:00] - Intro:The hosts return to discuss life updates, pool industry trends, and the start of the podcast episode. Zach is still out in the wilderness, and Edgar welcomes everyone back.
[00:03:00] - Zach’s Wilderness Adventure:The team checks in on Zach, who’s currently hunting in Idaho, while joking about his outdoor challenges and sharing some light-hearted banter.
[00:10:00] - Pool Nation Awards Nominees Discussion:Edgar, John, and Zach dive into the exciting 2024 Pool Nation Awards, highlighting some of the top nominations and what the awards mean for the industry.
[00:12:00] - Heater of the Year:Nominees include: Hayward Universal H-Series, Jandy JXI with VersaFlow, Pentair MasterTemp, Raypak Avia.
[00:14:00] - Automation of the Year:Nominees include: Hayward OmniLogic, Jandy AquaLink RS, Pentair IntelliCenter, Poolside Tech – The Attendant.
[00:16:00] - Pool Cleaner of the Year:Nominees include: Apier Scuba N1 Pro, BWT RC60, Dolphin Explorer E70, Hayward TrackVac, Pentair Rebel, Polaris Atlas, Polaris Freedom Plus, PowerVac 3600.
[00:18:00] - Variable Speed Pump of the Year:Nominees include: Aquastar Pipeline Pump, Hayward TriStar VS, Jandy VS FloPro, Pentair IntelliFlo 3, Waterway Power Defender.
[00:20:00] - Heat Pump of the Year:Nominees include: AquaComfort Heat Cool, Crosswind V, Gulfstream HE, Hayward HeatPro, Jandy VersaTemp Heat Chill, Pentair UltraTemp, AquaCal HeatWave.
[00:22:00] - Filter of the Year:Nominees include: Aquastar Pipeline Filter, Hayward SwimClear, Jandy DEV, Pentair FullFlow XF, Waterway Crystal Water.
[00:24:00] - Innovative Product of the Year:Nominees include: Beta SE Plus Pro Pool Skimmer, Ultimate Pool Tools Hypervalve, Poolside Tech – The Attendant.
[00:26:00] - Distributor of the Year:Nominees include: Heritage Pool Supply, Horner Express, SCP, PWP.
[00:28:00] - Salt System of the Year:Nominees include: AutoPilot ChlorSync, Hayward AquaRite, Estuary Salt System, Jandy TruClear, Pentair IntelliChlor, Resilience E-Series.
[00:30:00] - People Categories:
[00:30:30] - Trainer of the Year:Nominees include: Brad Duncan (Raypak), Eric Knight (HASAA), Ken Kaufman (Raypak), Lauren Broom (Space Coast Pool School), Rob Stewart, Terry Arko, Ronnie James.
[00:32:00] - Builder of the Year:Nominees include: Anthony & Sylvan Pools, Clappy Pools, Endless Summer Pools, Gold Medal Pools, Living Stone Pools, Master Touch Pools, Oasis Pools, OC Poolscapes, Southern Wind Pools, Lucas Lagoons, Envy Pools Arizona.
[00:34:00] - Retailer of the Year:Nominees include: Central Iowa Pool & Spa (Des Moines, Iowa), Griffin Pool & Spa (Lexington, Kentucky), Taylor Pools (Waycross, Georgia), The Pool Doctor of Rhode Island (Coventry, Rhode Island), The Pool Place (West Monroe, Louisiana), Townley Pool & Spa (Little Rock, Arkansas).
[00:36:00] - Sales Rep Group of the Year:Nominees include: Alpha West Marketing Group, Blake Sales Associates, Devin Con Malarkey Associates, Performance Link Rep Group, The Grit Game, Thornburg Enterprises, WECC & Associates.
[00:38:00] - 30 Under 40 Female of the Year:Nominees include: Debra Martin, Mackenzie Kinder, Molly Snyder, Nicole Geisberger.
[00:39:00] - 30 Under 40 Male of the Year:Nominees include: Aiden Dunn, Jack Speronez, James Broderick, Nick LaPuente.
[00:40:30] - Sales Rep of the Year:Nominees include: AJ Grucky, Andrew Raglin, Brian Croissant, Carlene Viboch, Daniel Nicholas, Johnny Davis, Matt Greenfell, Russ Kennedy, Sean Linderman, Tyler Topp, Brian Sadler.
[00:42:00] - Best Truck Wrap of the Year:Nominees include: Panther City Pools, Pool Guardians, Pool Tile Rescue, Sea Dog Pools, Superior Pool Solutions.
[00:43:30] - Women’s Trailblazer of the Year:Nominees include: Akshaya Sekhar, Bonnie Chong, Crystal Lengua Rowell, Elizabeth McMurray, Gina Harris, Jamie Novak, Lacey Davis, Natalie Portillo, Sabina Hickman, Shelley Morris, Stephanie Gardner, Taryn Springsteen.
[00:45:00] - Pool Company of the Year (250 Pools or Less):Nominees include: Big Family Pools, Blue Oasis Pool Care, Family Pool 360, First Response Pools, Times Pool & Spa, Logan’s Pool Service, Pool Guardians, Preserve Pools.
[00:47:00] - Pool Guy of the Year:Nominees include: Alex Moran, Benny Romero, Brian Gallick, Daniel Sarda, Francisco Mascorro, Jay Lardy, Joel Forrester, Jordan Orr, Michael Kraus, Miguel Cabello, Omar Falcón, Ray Da Rosa.
[00:49:00] - Pool Girl of the Year:Nominees include: Alicia Rowe, Deidre Bedford, Devin Spacey, Jennifer Mele, Kristen Mello, Lauren Vance, Lindy Sharp, Maria Castellanos, Megan Hightower Noor, Sabrina Salem, Sarah Barrow.
[00:50:00] - Heritage Pool Pro Appreciation Event Preview:Edgar previews the upcoming Heritage Pool Pro Appreciation Event, discussing the hands-on training and introducing the new Apple Bar concept where pool professionals can seek advice on scaling, HR, training, and business development.
[00:58:00] - Final Thoughts and Wrap-Up:The hosts give a final shout-out to the Pool Nation community, encouraging everyone to vote for the awards and sharing plans for upcoming podcast episodes, which will feature some of the nominees.