Pool Nation Podcast

E-263 Pool Nation Podcast - Hands-On Training + Financial Mastery (Day 1)

In episode 263 of the Pool Nation Podcast, we break down what to expect at the Pool Nation Conference at the PSP/Deck Expo in Las Vegas (Oct 24–25): a full day of truly hands-on training (pump wiring, automation, heater tear-downs, and variable-speed motor installs) and Day 1 of the Business Track focused on financial mastery (pricing for profit, key metrics, cost of service, cash flow, and exit planning). We also recap the Pool Nation Women’s Summit, shout out the $5K community giveaway, and share key show dates: $10K Pool Pro Challenge qualifiers (Oct 22) and the Pool Nation Awards (Oct 23). Use code POOLNATION for a free Expo Pass. Limited seats per track — don’t wait.
Chapter Timestamps
00:00 – Intro + show open
01:00 – Vegas is coming: Conference dates, 3-track format
02:00 – Catching up: glasses, getting older, and feeling human again
07:30 – Community spotlight: the $5,000 Instagram giveaway & vendor support
10:00 – Wild weather, dust storms, and pool cleanups
11:00 – PSP/Deck Expo week overview
Oct 22: $10K Pool Pro Challenge qualifiers (at our booth)
Oct 23: Pool Nation Awards (voting closes Oct 1)
Oct 24–25: Pool Nation Conference (3 tracks)
12:30 – Women’s Summit recap: energy, networking, and top-tier education
16:45 – Announcing Most Influential Women (2025) & Next Gen Leaders
20:00 – What makes our conference different (intimate size, curated tracks)
24:00 – Why service pros deserve a seat at the table
27:30 – Track design philosophy: a true, step-by-step curriculum
37:00 – Hands-On Day (Oct 24): what you’ll actually do
Pump wiring & VS pump installs (Aquastar carts)
Automation install & programming (Pool Attendant)
Heater teardown, troubleshooting & best practices (Raypak)
Variable-speed motor retrofit & programming (Nidec/US Motors Neptune)
45:00 – “Truly hands-on” explained (tools in hand, small groups, do the work)
46:30 – Business Track Day 1 (Oct 24): Financial Mastery
Turn Pools into Profits (profit mindset & setup)
Turn Metrics into Money (what to track, how to use it)
Know Your Cost, Grow Your Profit (real cost of service)
Financial Planning & Exit Strategy
Profit ≠ Cash: Mastering Cash Flow
51:30 – Technical Track Day 1 (Oct 24): Chemistry & Algae
Responsibilities of the modern pool pro
Precision testing & dosing
Choosing the right chemicals for each pool
Proactive vs. reactive care (specialty chems & minerals)
The science of algae: ID, prevention, elimination
55:30 – Why the curriculum is sequenced the way it is
57:30 – Day 2 tease (coming next episode)
58:30 – Seats are limited (target caps per track) — register early
01:05:00 – How to use code POOLNATION for a free Expo Pass
01:07:00 – A direct message to service pros: why this training matters
01:10:00 – Instructors & announcements coming up
01:11:00 – Awards tickets reminder + massive voting turnout
01:12:00 – Wrap & what’s next (IG Live with nominees next week)
 
Show Notes
Get ready for Vegas! We’re previewing the Pool Nation Conference at the PSP/Deck Expo (Oct 24–25) and breaking down exactly what you’ll learn.
Hands-On Day (Oct 24)
Wire and install VS pumps (Aquastar)
Install and program automation (Pool Attendant)
Tear down and troubleshoot heaters the right way (Raypak)
Retrofit a variable-speed motor and program it (Nidec/US Motors Neptune)
Business Track: Day 1 — Financial Mastery
Build your business to produce profit (from day one)
The metrics that actually drive decisions
Calculate your true cost of service
Plan your finances and exit strategy
Cash flow > profit: how to never run out of cash
Technical Track: Day 1 — Chemistry & Algae
Responsibilities of a modern pool pro
Precision testing, dosing, and targeted care
Choosing the right chemicals for each pool
Proactive vs. reactive care using specialty chems & minerals
The science of algae: identify, prevent, eliminate
Key Dates (PSP/Deck Expo Week)
Oct 22: $10K Pool Pro Challenge qualifiers (at our booth)
Oct 23: Pool Nation Awards (voting closes Oct 1)
Oct 24–25: Pool Nation Conference (3 curated tracks)
🎟️ Register: poolnation.com or poolspapatio.com🎫 Free Expo Pass: use code POOLNATION (save $60)⚠️ Limited seats per track (intimate, truly hands-on format)
We also recap the Pool Nation Women’s Summit, announce Most Influential Women (2025) and our Next Generation Female Leaders, and shout out the $5K community giveaway that lit up the industry.
Sponsors — Thank You for Your Support
SPPA 
Nidec / US Motors 
Blu-Ray XL 
AquaStar Pool Products 
Natural Chemistry 
Raypak 
Hayward 
Heritage Pool Supply 
Poolside Tech 
Pool Brain 

E-262 Pool Nation Podcast - Inspiring Stories, Rising Leaders & Industry Insights

Pool Nation Podcast E-262 - In this special Best of Pool Nation Podcast episode, we highlight some of the most inspiring conversations from past shows. From women leaders breaking barriers in pool building, to next-generation innovators making their mark, and the people shaping the future of our industry, this episode is packed with stories you won’t want to miss.
You’ll hear:
Hailey Tu, owner of Lavender Landscape, on building a women-led company and her journey from design to pool construction.
Janie, sharing their experiences in service, networking, and industry growth.
Michael “Spider” Kraus, nominee for Pool Pro of the Year, with his signature “two thumbs up” attitude.
Megan Kendrick, owner of Pool Pro Magazine, on the importance of recognizing young professionals with the 30 Under 40 Awards.
Alyssa & Lindsay, rising leaders nominated for the Rookie of the Year, sharing their passion for pools, leadership, and building businesses.
Plus, a conversation with PSP/Deck Expo director Kris and marketing lead Megan Magna on what’s ahead for the biggest pool & spa show of the year.
This episode is a celebration of pool professionals who inspire, innovate, and elevate the entire industry.
⏱️ Chapter Timestamps
[00:00:00] Intro – Welcome to the Best of Pool Nation Podcast
[00:01:00] Hailey Tu – Building a women-led pool company & journey into landscape/pools
[00:09:00] Spider Kraus – Living the “two thumbs up” lifestyle & Pool Pro of the Year nominee
[00:11:00] Janie – Networking, service, and building lasting impact
[00:18:00] Janie – Running 60 pools a week, wiring panels & embracing electrical work
[00:24:00] Megan Kendrick – The story behind Pool Pro Magazine & the 30 Under 40 Awards
[00:35:00] Alyssa – From Puerto Rico to building 7-8-7 Serrano Construction in El Paso
[00:46:00] Lindsay – Digital leadership at Hayward & pool marketing innovation
[00:56:00] PSP/Deck Expo with Kris & Megan Magna – Behind the scenes of the industry’s biggest show
[01:15:00] Closing & Outro
A huge thank you to our Pool Nation Visionary Partners & Sponsors who make this podcast possible and continue to support pool professionals everywhere:
The SPPA – Leaders in tailored liability insurance for pool pros (thesppa.com)
US Motors Neptune Variable Speed Motor – Upgrade any pump to variable speed without replumbing (usmotors.com/pool)
Blu-Ray XL Mineral Purifier – Reduce chemical use and labor by up to 50% (blu-rayxl.com)
AquaStar Pipeline Filters – Hydraulic efficiency and top-tier filtration performance (aquastarpoolproducts.com)
Natural Chemistry Pro Series – Specialty water care solutions trusted for over 30 years (naturalchemistry.com)
Raypak Avia Heaters with NiTec – Superior durability and efficiency with EC Heat Exchanger technology (raypak.com)
Hayward Universal ColorLogic 2.0 Lighting – Next-generation pool & spa lighting for vibrant colors (hayward.com)
Heritage Pool Supply
SPPA
Poolside Tech

E-261 Pool Nation Podcast: Roadmap to Profitability Part 2: Avoiding Profit Killers for Pool Pros

In Episode 261 of the Pool Nation Live Podcast, Edgar De Jesus, John “JJ Flawless,” and Zac “The Pool Boy” Nicholas dive into Part 2 of the Roadmap to Profitability series. This episode unpacks the biggest profit killers in the pool service business, the pricing mindset traps that hold pool pros back, and the math that proves why profitability must come first.
The team discusses:
Why paying yourself first is non-negotiable.
How to set pricing like you already have employees to avoid burnout.
The financial traps that cause businesses to stall or fail.
Real-world stories from the field—hot installs, customer curveballs, and lessons from poolside battles.
A breakdown of the Pool Nation Conference business track in Las Vegas: profit-first strategies, cash flow mastery, pricing formulas, building high-performing teams, and leadership accountability.
Whether you’re a single-poler just starting out or scaling your business, this episode will give you actionable tools to price with confidence, protect your profits, and future-proof your pool business.
🎟️ Don’t forget: Register now for the Pool Nation Conference, happening October 24–25 at the PSP Expo in Las Vegas, and claim your free expo floor pass with code POOLNATION at checkout.
⏱️ Chapter Timestamps
00:00 – Intro: Welcome & sponsor shoutouts04:50 – Zach returns from vacation refreshed, John and Edgar worn out12:15 – Brutal heat, pump installs, and unexpected repair curveballs21:40 – PSP Expo preview & $10K Pool Pro Challenge announcement28:00 – Pool Nation Awards nominations & Alley Lounge After Party details34:45 – Pool Nation Conference business & leadership tracks explained46:20 – Recap of Part 1: Why profits aren’t a bonus, they’re the foundation51:05 – Profit Killer #1: Not paying yourself1:08:40 – Pricing like you have an employee (even if you don’t yet)1:27:15 – Burnout, turnover, and the hidden costs of underpricing1:43:55 – The career path mindset: Building wages & growth into your model1:57:30 – Final thoughts: Know your numbers & plan for 3–5 years ahead2:05:00 – Wrap-up & next week’s Nomination Night women’s livestream

E-260 Pool Nation Podcast: Pool Pros’ Guide to DOE Compliance and Variable Speed Motor Upgrades with Nidec

In episode 259 of the Pool Nation Podcast, hosts Edgar De Jesus, John “JJ Flawless”, and Zac the Pool Boy sit down with Tim Moore and Jim D’Angelo from US Motors / Nidec to discuss the upcoming DOE pool pump regulations and what they mean for pool service professionals nationwide.
They explain how the new rules will phase out single-speed pool pump motors and why the Neptune Variable Speed Motor is a cost-effective, energy-efficient replacement option. Learn how this innovative motor allows pros to upgrade existing pumps to variable speed without costly replumbing, helping customers save money while meeting DOE requirements.
From freeze control integration and automation system compatibility to real-world installation tips and energy savings strategies, Tim and Jim share proven solutions that make compliance easier and open new business opportunities for pool pros. They also discuss the importance of field feedback in product design and how US Motors works directly with service technicians to improve performance.
If you’re a pool technician, service company owner, or equipment installer looking to stay ahead of regulations and grow your business, this episode is packed with expert guidance and practical takeaways.
 
🕒 Chapter Timestamps
00:00 – Intro & sponsor thank-yous
01:00 – Welcoming Tim & Jim from US Motors/Nidec
04:00 – Behind the scenes of the photo shoot & Pool Man University content
05:00 – The passion factor in product knowledge
06:30 – Jim’s background and decades with US Motors
08:00 – Who Nidec is and where their motors show up in daily life
13:00 – Tim’s career journey from startup pools to variable-speed technology
15:00 – DOE history and the upcoming September 29th regulation change
25:00 – Breaking down the 1.15 THP to 5.0 THP cutoff & exemptions
33:00 – Educating customers on variable speed benefits
35:00 – Energy savings math: Affinity Laws explained
37:00 – Filtration, circulation, and the “low and slow” advantage
41:00 – Pool pro perspectives on embracing the change
45:00 – Introducing the Neptune Variable Speed Motor: sizes, applications, and adaptability
50:00 – Stocking strategy for service vans & motor myths busted
59:00 – Standalone mode features & DOE mode optimization
01:02:00 – Integrating with older time clocks and booster pump systems
01:13:00 – Freeze control integration with the Neptune
01:18:00 – Automation system compatibility and setup steps
01:27:00 – How to get training, support, and find your local rep
01:29:00 – Why the Neptune offers a real alternative for customers and pros
01:30:00 – Closing thoughts & upcoming events
🙏 Sponsor Thank-Yous
The SPPA – Insurance for Pool Pros
BluRay XL – The real mineral purifier
AquaStar Pool Products – Innovation in safety and efficiency
Natural Chemistry – Simplifying pool care
Raypak – Industry-leading heaters
Heritage Pool Supply – Supporting pool professionals nationwide
Hayward Pool Products – Leading pool and spa innovation
Poolside Tech – Smart automation
Pool Brain – Service business automation
US Motors – Neptune variable-speed motors for energy savings

E-259 - Pool Nation Podcast Understanding Pool Bonding: FSPA’s Groundbreaking Study

In Episode 259 of Pool Nation Podcast, Edgar De Jesus and John "JJ Flawless" dive deep into a critical safety topic in the pool industry: Equipotential Bonding. They’re joined by Dallas Thiesen from the Florida Swimming Pool Association (FSPA) and John Ritenour, VP of Engineering at SunSmart Engineering, to break down the findings from a landmark bonding study conducted by the Pool Industry Council.
Learn the difference between bonding and grounding, explore the two main methods of bonding (copper wire vs. copper grid), and understand why this topic matters to pool service techs, builders, and inspectors alike. The episode covers safety implications, real-world retrofit challenges, and how this research could affect upcoming National Electric Code changes.
Whether you're a pool pro servicing backyards daily or a builder navigating evolving code standards, this episode is packed with practical tips, technical insights, and industry updates that could impact your work.
👉 Access the full study: PoolBondingStudy.com
⏱️ Timestamps:
00:00–02:00 – Intro, shout-out to sponsors, and setup for the podcast
02:01–05:00 – Florida heat, location confusion, and pool pro banter
05:01–07:00 – Edgar introduces guests Dallas (FSPA) and John (SunSmart Engineering)
07:01–09:00 – What is equipotential bonding and why it matters
09:01–14:00 – Bonding vs grounding, stray voltage explained
14:01–18:00 – How bonding wires connect to pool shells and equipment
18:01–21:00 – Risks of severed bonds and retrofit challenges in older pools
21:01–25:00 – How techs can test bonding continuity in the field
25:01–28:00 – Retrofit cost shock: why grids are problematic for renovations
28:01–33:00 – Details of the FSPA bonding study setup and testing methods
33:01–35:00 – Study results: Copper grid vs copper wire performance
35:01–39:00 – Real-world impact and code implications for pool pros
39:01–42:00 – Risks of unbonded pools and shocking stories
42:01–45:00 – Safety statistics: bonding rarely fails when installed correctly
45:01–48:00 – How pool pros can get involved and push back on code changes
48:01–51:00 – Final takeaways, where to find the study, and podcast wrap-up
🙏 Thank You to Our Visionary Sponsors:
We'd like to give a huge thank you to the visionary sponsors who make this podcast possible:
SPPA – Insurance for Pool Pros
BluRay XL – The real mineral purifier
AquaStar Pool Products – Innovation in safety and efficiency
Natural Chemistry – Simplifying pool care
Raypak – Industry-leading heaters
Heritage Pool Supply – Supporting pool professionals nationwide
Hayward Pool Products – Leading pool and spa innovation
Poolside Tech – Smart automation
Pool Brain – Service business automation
US Motors – Neptune variable-speed motors for energy savings

E-258 Pool Nation Podcast - Inside the Industry’s Most Advanced Pool Studio: First Podcast from AquaStar Studios!

Pool Nation Podcast E-258 - In this landmark episode, the Pool Nation team takes you behind the scenes of the brand-new AquaStar Studios in Ventura, California. We’re the very first to record inside this industry-changing facility—and we’re bringing you the full experience, streaming live on Instagram and Restream for the first time ever! Join Edgar, John, and Zac as they tour the state-of-the-art studio, test out its massive interactive screen, and chat with Todd and the AquaStar crew about why content and education are transforming the pool industry.
Whether you’re a pool pro, a business owner, or just a fan of next-level tech and team culture, this episode is packed with laughs, insider stories, and powerful takeaways on innovation, collaboration, and why investing in the pool community matters now more than ever.
Timelines & Highlights:
[00:00:00] – Intro & Welcome:Meet the crew as they kick off at AquaStar’s stunning new studio in Ventura, sharing first impressions and setting the vibe for a special live-streamed episode.
[00:03:00] – Pool Nation On the Road:Travel stories, Airbnb mishaps, and the lengths Edgar will go for a cup of coffee.
[00:06:00] – Studio Reveal & First Impressions:Blindfolded arrivals, team reactions, and the story behind building a one-of-a-kind industry studio.
[00:13:00] – Pool Nation Conference Sneak Peek:Upcoming events, including the Women’s Summit, Pool Pro Challenge, and business training track breakdown.
[00:23:00] – Why Build a Studio? Vision & ROI:Todd shares the inside story on what inspired AquaStar to invest big in a content studio, the changing needs of pool pros, and the challenge of justifying ROI in education and media.
[00:31:00] – Building It Right: Design, Details, & Team Culture:Hear how the AquaStar team took on the build, the philosophy of “everything makes a difference,” and how internal talent and attention to detail brought the vision to life.
[00:40:00] – The Massive Interactive Wall Demo:Live demo of the 10x20ft high-res screen—see what it can do, why it matters for training, and the plans for future immersive content.
[00:47:00] – Community, Team, and Social Media:The importance of company culture, embracing social media, and making pool pros feel like family—not just customers.
[01:03:00] – Growth & Team Expansion:How AquaStar built its rep team from scratch, what’s next, and why Mandy deserves a spotlight!
[01:10:00] – Live Audience Q&A & Fun:Live shoutouts, Brian’s birthday, and the legendary “Omar on a horse” photo goes up on the big screen.
[01:17:00] – Final Thoughts & Takeaways:Gratitude, future vision, and why this launch is just the beginning for both AquaStar and Pool Nation.

E-257 Pool Nation Podcast Best of Pool Nation Podcast: Industry Journeys, Big Wins, and Lessons Learned

Episode 257 of the Pool Nation Podcast. This week on the Pool Nation Podcast, we bring you a Best Of episode packed with the most inspiring, entertaining, and educational moments from our recent interviews with pool pros, innovators, and industry leaders. From entrepreneurial journeys and product launches to wild industry stories and lessons on overcoming adversity, this episode is your all-access pass to the people, products, and personalities shaping the pool industry.
Listen in for:
Entrepreneurial stories from the trenches
Industry-changing product launches
Candid conversations about success, setbacks, and comebacks
Audience questions answered, and more!
Whether you’re a pool technician, business owner, or just love a good story, you won’t want to miss this one!
⏱️ Timestamps / Episode Highlights
[00:00] Welcome & Show IntroKicking off with the Pool Nation crew: Edgar De Jesus, John “JJ Flawless,” and Zach “The Pool Boy” Nicholas. What’s in store on this special best-of episode.
[04:12] Family, Fatherhood & Pool Pro LifeHilarious parenting confessions, colicky baby survival tips, and the reality of working late-night podcasts at home.
[12:08] Guest: Chris Galvan of Blu-Ray XLChris shares his journey from waterpark pool pro to creating Blu-Ray XL, and the story behind his breakthrough mineral-based water treatment product.
[23:45] Facing Adversity: Lawsuits, the EPA, and Not Giving UpChris details the intense legal and regulatory battles that nearly ended his business—and how perseverance, family, and belief in his product kept him going.
[36:11] Announcement: Pool Nation Awards NominationsCelebrate excellence! Nominate your favorite pool pros, trainers, sales reps, and game-changing products at PoolNationAwards.com. Nominations close August 6th!
[38:02] Pool Nation Conference PromoThe only business-focused conference in the pool industry returns Oct 24-25 at the PSP Expo, Las Vegas. Hands-on business, technical, and financial training—plus live demos and networking. Register at PoolNation.com.
[39:37] Guest: Josh Sherwood of Sherwood’s OutdoorsJosh’s incredible story: from rodeo to landscaping to pool building—and giving away a full backyard and pool to a deserving family.
[47:15] Learning by Failing: Soldering Disaster & The Value of ResilienceJosh recalls his first big mistake in landscaping, what went wrong, and how learning from failure (instead of quitting) changed his business.
[52:30] Guest: Todd Pierre & Jamie Novak, AquaStar Pool ProductsMeet the people behind some of the industry’s most innovative new products and hear about their accidental (but life-changing) entry into the pool business.
[01:06:22] Why Disruption Matters: The Pipeline Filter StoryA candid look at what it takes to innovate in an industry that can sometimes resist change.
[01:12:08] Guest: Mike Farley, Million Dollar Pool Design ChallengeMike shares what it’s like designing the “crazy” pools of Texas, tackling difficult projects, and the evolution of the backyard resort trend.
[01:25:10] From Failure to Fame: Social Media, Swim-Up Bars & Pool Industry TrendsHow viral pool designs are influencing backyard builds nationwide.
[01:33:30] Guest: Paul Sim, Ariel (Solar Skimming Robot)From firefighting equipment to robotic pool cleaners—Paul’s journey into pool tech, product innovation, and surviving the challenges of manufacturing.
[01:45:20] The Power of Community: Listener Shoutouts & Live Q&AEdgar, John, and Zach answer audience questions, share stories, and highlight the supportive Pool Nation community.
[01:52:41] Pool Nation Announcements & ClosingConference details, shoutouts, and how to connect with the Pool Nation team for future episodes and live events.
📱 How to Listen:
Listen live every Friday at 9am PST / 11am CST / 12pm EST
On all major podcast platforms, PoolNation.com, and Pool Nation Podcast
Follow on Instagram and Facebook @PoolNation

E-256 Pool Nation Podcast - Roadmap to Profitability: How to Build a Pool Business That Pays You

Episode 256 of the Pool Nation Podcast. Ready to build a pool service business that doesn’t just keep pools blue, but also pays you what you’re worth? This week, Edgar De Jesus, John “JJ Flawless,” and Zac “the Pool Boy” Nicholas get real about what it actually takes to succeed—and stay profitable—in the pool industry.
Join us for a candid, behind-the-scenes roundtable as we break down the Pool Nation Roadmap to Profitability, from rookie mistakes to seasoned strategies.You’ll hear how most pool pros start out obsessed with water chemistry and “splash and dash” service, only to realize—sometimes after years of burnout and struggle—that real success requires learning the business side. The team shares their personal journeys: seven-day workweeks, long hours, undercharging, and near-burnout, plus the exact turning points that helped them finally build thriving, profitable companies.
What you’ll learn in this episode:
Why most pool pros focus on cleaning and chemistry first, but ignore business basics
The actual progression from service to repairs—and why so many get stuck
The hidden dangers of chasing account numbers instead of profit
Real talk on burnout: what it feels like, and how to pivot before it’s too late
Why knowing your numbers—from cost per pool to true take-home pay—changes everything
The “Profit Crossroads:” that critical moment every owner faces (and how to survive it)
How top pool companies achieve more with fewer pools and fewer headaches
Why quality of service—and quality of customers—beats quantity every time
How a shift in mindset, confidence, and education leads to a more enjoyable, sustainable business
Exclusive preview: Upcoming Pool Nation Boot Camps, Women’s Summit, and the business-focused Pool Nation Conference at the PSP Expo
[00:00:00] — Welcome & July 4th stories: The team shares family time, fireworks, and what it’s like juggling business during the summer rush.[00:03:00] — Deepfakes, AI, and Pool Myths: How fake news (and viral pool “hacks”) are impacting the industry, and why learning to separate fact from fiction matters for pool pros.[00:08:00] — Event Rundown: Key dates and reasons not to miss the hands-on Boot Camp, Pool Nation Awards nominations, Women’s Summit, $10K Pool Pro Challenge, and the only business-focused conference in the industry.[00:16:00] — Why Most Pool Pros Start with Service: Edgar and Zac explain the overwhelming pull toward water chemistry and service basics, and why business training often comes last.[00:23:00] — From Cleaner to Water Manager: John and Zac talk about changing the customer perception from “pool boy” to water management expert, and why it’s crucial for long-term success.[00:26:00] — Graduating to Repairs: The team gets honest about the messy, expensive, and sometimes humbling transition into equipment repairs—and how most pros learn the hard way.[00:31:00] — Where Most Pros Go Wrong: The dangers of underpricing, not paying yourself first, and letting cash flow dictate your business.[00:34:00] — Burnout & The Profit Crossroads: Candid stories of working seven days a week, living on cash flow, and the exact moment each host realized they needed to change.[00:38:00] — How to Build a Profitable Company: Why focusing on fewer, better accounts (and charging what you’re worth) creates freedom, growth, and a healthier work-life balance.[00:49:00] — Quality Over Quantity: A look at how great customers, higher service standards, and business systems can supercharge your income—and enjoyment—without scaling up your headaches.[00:52:00] — What’s Next? A sneak peek at the upcoming “Profit Killers” episode, plus the basic math every pool pro should know to calculate cost of service and profit margin.
Actionable Takeaways:
Start with your numbers: Knowing your true cost per pool and setting profit targets is the fastest way to build a business that pays you back.
Don’t chase every account: Not all growth is good growth—sometimes less is more.
Profit is freedom: When you’re profitable, you can take time off, invest in your team, and actually enjoy your business.
Mindset matters: The right education and support turns a “pool boy” into a respected business owner.
Don’t forget:👉 Register for upcoming Pool Nation Boot Camps and the only business-focused Pool Nation Conference at poolnation.com👉 Nominate your favorite pool pros, trainers, and products at poolnationawards.com (nominations close August 6!)👉 Download the Pool Man University app for exclusive business and finance courses

E-255 Pool Nation Podcast - How Jay Laughrey Found Purpose After Tragedy

In this heartfelt and powerful episode #255 of the Pool Nation Podcast, hosts Edgar De Jesus, John "JJ Flawless," and Zac "The Pool Boy" Nicholas welcome Jay Laughrey, an inspiring figure in the pool industry. Jay opens up about his incredible journey, sharing how his brother Jeff's mentorship shaped him, the devastating loss he faced, and how he turned tragedy into purpose, becoming a beacon of positivity and leadership.
Jay's story is a testament to the power of resilience, mentorship, and community within the pool industry, offering valuable lessons on mental health awareness, communication, and business leadership. This conversation is emotional, impactful, and filled with practical insights for both new and veteran pool professionals.
Episode Highlights & Timestamps:
0:00 - Intro & Welcome: Meet your hosts and special guest, Jay Laughrey.
10:25 - Jay’s Early Life: From auto shop dreams to computer networking.
18:40 - Board Shorts & Checks: How Jay’s brother Jeff entered the pool industry.
27:30 - Taking the Plunge: Jay’s first experiences and anxieties as a new pool professional.
38:55 - Tragedy Strikes: Jay shares the painful story of losing his brother to suicide and how it reshaped his life.
55:50 - Grieving and Healing: Jay discusses the ongoing journey of grief, acceptance, and how he found purpose.
1:05:15 - Honoring Jeff’s Legacy: How Jay continues his brother's passion for helping others in the industry.
1:15:20 - Embracing Leadership: Jay’s unexpected journey into leadership with IPSA.
1:25:40 - Advice for New Pool Pros: Communication tips and taking on challenges confidently.
1:35:00 - Final Thoughts & Reflections: The hosts share heartfelt takeaways and gratitude.
Special Thanks to Our Sponsors: SPPA, Blu-Ray XL, Aquastar Pool Products, Natural Chemistry, Raypak, Heritage Pool Supply, Hayward Pool Products, Poolside Tech, Pool Brain, and Nidec
Mental Health Resource: If you or someone you know is struggling with thoughts of suicide, please call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline by dialing 988.

E-254 Pool Nation Podcast - Pool Chemistry Myths Destroyed—Stop Sabotaging Your Pools!

Welcome to Episode 254 of the Pool Nation Podcast, where we’re not just netting and jetting—we’re building a nation of pool pros! In this myth-busting episode, Edgar, John, and Zac tackle the biggest misconceptions in pool water chemistry, breaking down what’s true, what’s not, and what every pool tech needs to know to protect pools, profits, and reputations.
Whether you’re a rookie or a veteran, you’ll get actionable advice, real-world examples, and the latest science on water balance, chemical dosing, salt systems, and more. We also update you on the hottest events of the year, from the Pool Nation Awards to the $10,000 Pool Pro Challenge!
Special thanks to our sponsors: SPPA, BluRay XL, AquaStar Pool Products, Natural Chemistry, Raypak, Heritage Pool Supply, Hayward, Poolside Tech, Pool Brain, Nidec, and US Motors. Their support makes this show—and your education—possible!
Timestamps:
[00:00] Pool Nation IntroThe signature intro, sponsor shoutouts, and a Texas-sized heat check.
[05:35] Summer Survival HacksHow pros handle the brutal summer heat and keep morale high on the route.
[09:40] Algae Trends & Chemical Cost WarningsWhy algae (especially mustard!) is tougher this year, and how to avoid skyrocketing chemical bills.
[13:58] Pool Nation Event RundownKey dates: Pop-Up Bootcamps, Pool Nation Awards, Women’s Summit, Pool Pro Challenge, and Conference preview.
[20:22] Business Track Sneak PeekEdgar breaks down the ONLY conference track in the industry that’s 100% focused on profitability, business growth, and building high-performing teams.
[26:45] Registration Details & Pro TipsHow to claim your seat for business, technical, and hands-on classes—before they’re gone.
[30:30] Pool Chemistry Mythbusters (Rapid Fire Begins!)John takes on the top 10 pool chemistry myths, with Edgar & Zach on standby:
[31:00] Myth 1: “If chlorine’s good, pH doesn’t matter.”
[34:10] Myth 2: “Muriatic acid lowers pH and alkalinity equally.”
[37:45] Myth 3: “Always correct alkalinity before pH.”
[41:00] Myth 4: “Eyeball your acid or soda ash dose.”
[43:36] Myth 5: “7.2 to 7.8 pH = always fine.”
[46:02] Myth 6: “Strong chlorine smell means clean water.”
[48:25] Myth 7: “If it looks clear, chemistry is fine.”
[50:04] Myth 8: “You don’t need to test CYA often.”
[52:32] Myth 9: “Saltwater pools don’t use chlorine.”
[55:00] Myth 10: “Shock will fix any pool issue.”
[58:10] Final Thoughts & TakeawaysWhy busting bad info is so important, and how to submit your follow-up questions.
[1:01:20] Event Reminders & Sign OffHow to connect with the Pool Nation crew, get registered, and join the fastest-growing pool pro community.