Shows
Talking Pools PodcastTrade Show AttendancePool Pros text questions hereIn this episode of the Talking Pools podcast, hosts Steve and Wayne discuss the ongoing trade show season in the pool industry, the impact of weather on attendance, and the importance of insurance and liability considerations for pool service professionals. They share personal anecdotes and insights about navigating trade shows, the significance of networking, and the challenges of managing liability in pool services, especially concerning diving boards and hillside pools.TakeawaysTrade shows are crucial for networking and education in the pool industry.Weather can significantly...
2026-02-0550 min
Talking Pools PodcastSteve’s Cautionary Tales, Leak Detection 101 & The Airbnb Insurance TrapPool Pros text questions hereThis week, Steve flies solo again — but with good news: Wayne is on the mend and expected back very soon. Until then, Steve brings a full toolbox of stories, lessons, and a deep dive into one of the most-requested topics from pool pros: leak detection as a service.🔥 Segment 1 — Cautionary Tales From the FieldSteve opens with some brutally honest stories from the last month on his route:Losing a couple clients — why it happened, what could’ve prevented it, and why sometim...
2025-12-111h 11
Talking Pools PodcastEducation and Growth: Wayne with Natalie HoodPool Pros text questions hereIn this episode of the Talking Pools podcast, Wayne and Natalie Hood discuss the Grit Game, a rising player in the pool industry. Natalie shares her journey with the Grit Game, emphasizing their commitment to education, collaboration, and support within the industry. They explore the meaning behind the name 'Grit', the importance of manufacturer representation, and the growth trajectory of the Grit Game. The conversation also highlights upcoming events, resources for industry professionals, and the launch of CPO classes, showcasing the Grit Game's dedication to elevating industry standards and knowledge.
2025-09-0450 min
Talking Pools PodcastDebunking Pool Chemical MythsPool Pros text questions hereIn this episode of the Talking Pools podcast, hosts Steve and Wayne discuss the misleading marketing of pool products, particularly focusing on monoprosulfate. They explore the advantages and limitations of this chemical, its proper usage, and the common misconceptions surrounding it. The conversation also touches on the importance of accurate water testing and the historical context of monoprosulfate in the pool industry. In this conversation, the speakers discuss various aspects of pool maintenance, focusing on indoor pools, water chemistry, and the use of ionizers. They emphasize the importance of understanding the limitations...
2025-05-0846 min
Talking Pools PodcastIn Control of Yelp and Online ReviewsPool Pros text questions hereIn this conversation, the hosts discuss various aspects of customer service in the pool industry, including the challenges of dealing with difficult customers, the importance of service industry experience, and the impact of online reviews, particularly Yelp. They share personal anecdotes about customer interactions, the significance of communication, and the role of attitude in both teaching and learning. The discussion also touches on the complexities of consulting and the potential for homeowner rating systems. In this conversation, the speakers discuss various aspects of running a successful pool business, including the benefits of...
2025-04-031h 09
Talking Pools PodcastThe Future of Pool Service SoftwarePool Pros text questions hereIn this episode of Talking Pools, hosts Steve and Wayne welcome Peter Legass from BufferZone, a software solution for pool service management. The conversation explores the evolution of the pool service industry, the importance of software in managing multiple clients, and the unique features of BufferZone that cater to both residential and commercial pool services. Peter shares his journey in the pool industry, the development of BufferZone, and how it addresses common pain points for pool service providers. The discussion also covers onboarding processes, water chemistry management, reporting, and operational efficiency, providing...
2025-03-0655 min
Talking Pools PodcastPool Perils in CaliforniaPool Pros text questions hereSummary: In this episode, Steve and Wayne discuss a range of topics related to recent weather events and their impact on California, as well as pool maintenance and client management. They delve into the aftermath of the atmospheric river rain, issues with man-made rivers, and the challenges of maintaining pools in the wake of fires.Key Points:Recent Weather Events:Impact of the atmospheric river rain on the West Coast, causing excess water and runoff.Man-made rivers in Los Angeles and the flow...
2025-02-2751 min
Talking Pools PodcastThe Battle Against Pool Product MisinformationPool Pros text questions hereEpisode Summary: In this episode, Steve and Wayne discuss the latest industry trends and share their insights on various topics related to pool maintenance and products. They reflect on their experiences in the industry and address some common misconceptions and challenges faced by pool owners and professionals.Key Topics:Introduction and Industry ReflectionsWayne and Steve welcome listeners and share updates on the weather and current events.Wayne reflects on his long career in the pool industry, starting in 1991.The Problem with...
2025-01-0937 min
Talking Pools PodcastWayne and Steve Dive into Revenue StreamsPool Pros text questions hereIn this episode of the Wayne and Steve Podcast from the Talking Pools Podcast, the duo explores strategies for increasing revenue streams within the pool service industry. With Steve fresh off two weeks of fieldwork, he reflects on the physical demands of the job, offering a heartfelt shout-out to pool technicians who endure the grind daily.The episode shifts focus to expanding income beyond basic pool maintenance. Steve highlights the importance of offering high-end services like automation installations, salt cell systems, and robotic pool cleaners to enhance customer satisfaction and...
2024-11-2147 min
Talking Pools PodcastA Pool Pro's Perfect WorldPool Pros text questions hereIn this heartfelt and inspiring episode of the Talking Pools Podcast, Steve and Wayne take listeners on an emotional journey, imagining what the life of a pool guy would look like in a perfect world. From the first few words, you can feel the deep passion they have for the pool industry and the people who make it run. They paint a picture of an industry where pool service techs are treated like the professionals they truly are—where respect, appreciation, and recognition are part of everyday life.Wayne begins by...
2024-10-1742 min
Talking Pools PodcastTest It or Regret It: Wayne’s Basics and Steve’s Obsession with Daily Pool Water Checks!Pool Pros text questions here In this episode of the Talking Pools Podcast, Wayne and Steve dive into the critical topic of water testing for swimming pools. Wayne breaks down which water tests are the most important for maintaining optimal pool health, emphasizing the essential ones like pH, chlorine, alkalinity, and calcium hardness. As Wayne discusses these vital tests, Steve’s passion for water care comes through in full force. He stresses the importance of daily testing, insisting that pool professionals should test the water every single day to ensure everything stays balanced. Steve’s animated approach and d...
2024-10-1041 min
Talking Pools PodcastBureaucrats, Bids, and Pool Boy Blues: Navigating Government Contracts Without Losing Your CoolPool Pros text questions hereIn this episode, Wayne and Steve dive deep into the intricacies of securing and managing pool service contracts with government agencies. Steve begins by sharing his experience navigating the often complex and bureaucratic processes involved in bidding for contracts at the municipal and federal levels. He outlines the steps required to win these lucrative contracts, from preparing detailed proposals and complying with strict regulations to navigating the public bidding process and understanding the unique expectations of government clients.Wayne chimes in to discuss the importance of establishing trust and a...
2024-09-2639 minTalking Pools PodcastSmurf Blue Pools to Six-Figure Contracts: Navigating the Highs and Lows of Pool ServicePool Pros text questions hereIn this episode of the Talking Pools Podcast, Wayne and Steve explore the concept of "local summers" or "False Fall," where locals close their pools on Labor Day regardless of the temperature. Steve discusses the intricacies of securing contracts with corporate properties and governmental agencies, even quoting a client hundreds of thousands of dollars for six-figure pool service contracts, a process that took him two days to complete. He notes that 90% of residential pool service companies operate on handshakes rather than contracts. Wayne questions whether contracts or handshakes are easier to manage...
2024-09-1944 minTalking Pools PodcastThe Non-Chlorine Shock Myth with Wayne & StevePool Pros text questions hereIn this episode of the Talking Pools Podcast, Wayne delves into the common misconception surrounding non-chlorine shock, specifically monopersulfate (MPS). He explains to Steve that the term "non-chlorine shock" is somewhat misleading because MPS is not powerful enough to break the nitrogen-chloride bond, which means it can't effectively eliminate combined chlorine from a swimming pool. However, Wayne emphasizes that MPS is still a valuable tool in pool maintenance as a preventative measure. It works by eliminating organic contaminants that can eventually lead to the formation of chloramines, the compounds responsible for that...
2024-09-0538 min
Talking Pools PodcastShock you like a Hurricane 🌀Pool Pros text questions hereIn part two of the Talking Pools Podcast episode where Wayne and Steve discuss preparing a swimming pool for a major weather event like a tornado or a hurricane, the duo delves deeper into the specific steps pool service professionals and homeowners should take to ensure their pools are safeguarded.Key Points Discussed:Securing Pool Equipment: Wayne and Steve emphasize the importance of securing all pool equipment, such as pumps, heaters, and filters. They discuss methods to anchor these items or move them to a...
2024-08-2928 minTalking Pools PodcastPOOLNADO🌪️ PART lPool Pros text questions hereIn part one of this two-part episode, hosts Wayne and Steve dive into the crucial steps for preparing and caring for a swimming pool in the event of a major weather event like a hurricane. They start by emphasizing the importance of early preparation, highlighting the need to secure loose items around the pool area to prevent them from becoming dangerous projectiles.Wayne and Steve then discuss the necessity of balancing the pool's chemistry ahead of the storm, particularly adjusting pH levels and shocking the pool with chlorine to prevent...
2024-08-2223 minTalking Pools PodcastCalcium PhosphatePool Pros text questions hereIn this episode of the Talking Pools Podcast, hosts Wayne and Steve dive into the topic of calcium phosphate in swimming pools. They start by explaining what calcium phosphate is and how it forms when calcium in the water combines with phosphate. The hosts identify common sources of phosphates in pool water, such as fertilizers, decaying organic matter, and certain pool chemicals.They discuss the potential damage calcium phosphate can cause, including scaling on pool surfaces and equipment, cloudy water, and reduced efficiency of pool heaters and other equipment. This...
2024-08-1531 minTalking Pools PodcastThe Stagnation in Water Testing MethodsPool Pros text questions hereTalking Pools Podcast Episode Overview: The Stagnation in Water Testing MethodsIn this insightful episode of the Talking Pools Podcast, hosts Wayne and Steve dive into a pressing issue within the swimming pool industry: the troubling lack of advancement in water testing methods for monitoring pool water parameters. Despite the rapid technological advancements in various fields, Wayne and Steve lament the stagnation seen in the tools and techniques available for pool water testing since 2022.Key Discussion Points:Current State of Water Testing Technology:Wayne and...
2024-08-0834 minTalking Pools PodcastVetting your pool service customers - Wayne & StevePool Pros text questions hereTalking Pools Podcast Episode OverviewHosts: Wayne & SteveEpisode Highlights:Kite Surfing in the Olympics: Wayne and Steve dive into the thrilling news of kite surfing being added to the Olympic roster. They discuss the sport's growing popularity, its exhilarating nature, and what this inclusion means for both athletes and fans. The hosts share their excitement, speculate on the potential medal contenders, and reflect on how this dynamic sport might evolve on the world stage.Customer Preferences in Pool Service:
2024-08-0136 minTalking Pools PodcastPool Training PerspectivesPool Pros text questions hereHosts: Wayne and SteveRelease Date: Thursday, July 18, 2024Key Highlights:Introduction:Wayne and Steve kick off the episode with an engaging discussion about the importance of proper training for pool service technicians. They emphasize the impact of skilled technicians on business success and customer satisfaction.Training Methods:Wayne talks about the traditional methods of training, including hands-on apprenticeships and classroom-based learning. He highlights the effectiveness of these approaches in building foundational knowledge and practical skills.Steve shares his insights...
2024-07-1843 minTalking Pools PodcastIt Ain't Easy Figuring Out Why it's Green - Wayne IvusichPool Pros text questions hereIn this episode of the Talking Pools Podcast, Wayne dives into the details of distinguishing between green water caused by algae and green water resulting from high copper levels. Here's a brief summary:Episode Highlights:Visual Cues: Wayne explains that algae typically causes water to appear cloudy or murky with a green tint, often accompanied by slimy surfaces in the pool. In contrast, green water due to high copper levels usually looks clear but has a distinct bright green hue.Testing Methods: He...
2024-06-2726 min
Talking Pools PodcastNatural Swimming Pools - Wayne & StevePool Pros text questions hereIn a riveting episode of the Talking Pools Podcast, Thursday hosts Wayne and Steve dive deep into the topic of natural pools, expressing their strong opinions and sparking a lively debate within the pool enthusiast community. This episode stands out not only for its informative content but also for the hosts' candid expressions of their disdain for natural pools.A Closer Look at Natural PoolsNatural pools, also known as swimming ponds, have gained popularity in recent years for their eco-friendly design and chemical-free water. Unlike traditional pools...
2024-06-0639 min
Talking Pools PodcastPool Opening Masterclass: Essential Tips from Wayne and StevePool Pros text questions here Get ready for an exciting new episode of the Talking Pools Podcast! The Thursday hosts, Wayne and Steve dive deep into the essentials every pool service professional needs to know when opening a pool for the season. With a perfect blend of expertise and enthusiasm, Steve takes the lead on equipment, sharing invaluable tips on what to inspect and maintain to ensure everything runs smoothly. Meanwhile, Wayne delves into the chemistry side, providing critical insights into achieving and maintaining the perfect chemical balance. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting in t...
2024-05-3037 min
Talking Pools Podcastex-ESPN Sports Commentator turned Pool Pro joins Wayne on ThursdaysPool Pros text questions hereWelcome to another episode of Talking Pools! Today, our Thursday host, Wayne Ivusich, is joined by a special guest, an ex-ESPN Sports Commentator with over two decades of pool care experience. In this insightful session, they'll dive deep into the nuances of running a pool service company on both coasts, comparing New Jersey and California. They'll explore the challenges posed by New Jersey's harsh winters where pool closures are a seasonal routine, requiring precise winterization techniques to prevent freeze damage. Contrastingly, California's year-round warmth demands constant upkeep due to increased usage...
2024-05-0932 min
Talking Pools PodcastWater with a Tint of Color - Wayne IvusichPool Pros text questions hereIn the latest episode of Talking Pools Podcast, Host Wayne Ivusich plunges into the depths of water discoloration, unraveling the mysteries between two common culprits: algae and oxidized metals. With a keen eye for detail and a passion for pool maintenance, Ivusich takes listeners on an insightful journey to understand the stark differences and implications of these phenomena.Episode Overview:Join Wayne Ivusich in this riveting episode as he dissects the intricacies of water discoloration. Drawing from his extensive expertise in the pool industry, Ivusich delves into...
2024-05-0225 min
Talking Pools PodcastCalcium Phosphate - Wayne IvusichPool Pros text questions hereWelcome to another enlightening episode of Talking Pools Podcast! With your host, Wayne Ivusich, and today we're delving deep into the world of pool chemistry to address a question that's been on many of our listeners' minds: "What exactly is calcium phosphate in swimming pools?" Calcium phosphate might sound like a mouthful, but understanding its role in pool maintenance is crucial for any pool owner. In this episode, we're going to unravel the science behind calcium phosphate, exploring its formation, its impact on pool water quality, and most importantly, how to...
2024-04-1830 min
Talking Pools PodcastFilipino Public PoolsPool Pros text questions hereThis is the one where Wayne checks out public pools in the Phillipines. LaMotte CompanyLaMotte Company is a leading manufacturer of water quality testing products & pool test kitsDisclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the showThank you so much for listening! You can find us on social media: Facebook Instagram Tik Tok Email us: talkingpools@gmail.com
2024-03-2826 minTalking Pools PodcastFrom Whiteflies to Cyanobacteria - Rudy (sitting in for Wayne)Pool Pros text questions hereIn this riveting episode of the Talking Pools podcast, listeners are treated to an enlightening discussion as Rudy steps in for Wayne and delves into the world of aquatic nuisances. Rudy starts by unraveling the complexities of whiteflies and aphids, two notorious pests that often wreak havoc on aquatic ecosystems. From their life cycles to effective control measures, Rudy leaves no stone unturned as he equips listeners with valuable insights to combat these persistent pests. As the conversation unfolds, the spotlight shifts to diatoms and cyanobacteria, exploring their roles in pool maintenance...
2024-02-2222 min
Talking Pools PodcastHow a Borate/Bicarbonate Buffering System Works - Rudy (sitting in for Wayne)Pool Pros text questions hereIn this Thursday's episode of the Talking Pools Podcast, Rudy takes over as host, filling in for Wayne, and delves into the intricacies of water testing, focusing specifically on the function of buffers in maintaining pH balance in swimming pools. Rudy begins by explaining the vital role of buffers, such as bicarbonate and borate buffering systems, in preventing fluctuations in pH levels. Drawing an analogy to fortifications, Rudy likens buffers to frontline troops defending against pH shifts, elucidating how these chemical systems convert substances that could alter pH into harmless forms. He...
2024-02-1525 min
Australian War History PodcastA Road Less Travelled By - Neil Davis - S3E03This episode discusses Davis and his colleagues in the ABC in Singapore, his impressions of the Gurkhas after he did an assignment in Borneo, the war clouds gathering over Vietnam and his transfer to Vietnam on 13 April, 1964. The episode closes after we hear of Davis' assessment of General Westmoreland, the American Commander-in-Chief in Vietnam and the frugality of the equipment of the Viet Cong. Patreon: AusWarHistory Facebook: AusWarHistory
2023-10-1725 min
Australian War History PodcastA Road Less Travelled By - Neil Davis - S3E02Episode two continues to deal with Davis' trademark grit that is introduced in the first podcast. He overcomes a terrible ACL knee football injury and develops a love of running. His physical fitness and never-say-die attitude stands him in good stead in the seemingly impossible challenges Vietnam throws at him. As well, his academic prowess and weakness for members of the opposite sex are introduced and an affinity with Errol Flynn who attended the same school as he did in Hobart. It also deals with his growing restlessness in Australia and the attraction of South East Asia. W...
2023-02-1725 min
Australian War History PodcastA Road Less Travelled By - Neil Davis - S3E01In this episode, we talk about the beginning of his life, from losing his mother at an early age to then suffering from Polio and learning about how life and death are just part of the different seasons of life. We discern that his ability to weather the many challenges of Vietnam has its origins in his early days in Tasmania. have just completed a memoir on my first 18 years in Kalgoorlie. Its title Around the Blue Laminex Table is taken from the times when we sat at the blue Laminex kitchen table and listened to my father r...
2022-10-0336 min
Australian War History PodcastAround the Blue Laminex Table - Chapter 14 I have just completed a memoir on my first 18 years in Kalgoorlie. Its title Around the Blue Laminex Table is taken from the times when we sat at the blue Laminex kitchen table and listened to my father regaling the family with unforgettable stories about his days as a woodchopper, gambler and contractor who supplied the sheep stations north-east of Kalgoorlie. My uncle, William John Sheehan, the principal focus of the podcast on Timor, also figures prominently. Other important Goldfields' characters as well as some who have lived their lives in obscurity are included in the narrative. I have chosen...
2022-09-3024 min
Australian War History PodcastAround the Blue Laminex Table - Chapter 7 I have just completed a memoir on my first 18 years in Kalgoorlie. Its title Around the Blue Laminex Table is taken from the times when we sat at the blue Laminex kitchen table and listened to my father regaling the family with unforgettable stories about his days as a woodchopper, gambler and contractor who supplied the sheep stations north-east of Kalgoorlie. My uncle, William John Sheehan, the principal focus of the podcast on Timor, also figures prominently. Other important Goldfields' characters as well as some who have lived their lives in obscurity are included in the narrative. I have chosen...
2022-09-3012 min
Australian War History PodcastS02E03 - Vietnam - Post-War LifeWelcome to the third episode of the Vietnam series for the Australian war history podcast. In this episode, we talk about Mick's post-war life, get into a bit more detail about Simmo and as always touch on a number of different subjects surrounding the Australian military. Mick's details: Simmo, the book by Mick can be bought online from Mick's website: https://www.imprimaturbooks.com.au/micks-blog/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/imprimaturbooks/ Australian War History: Facebook.com/auswarhistory.com Patreon: patreon.com/auswarhistory
2021-10-1141 min
Australian War History PodcastS02E02 - Vietnam - The JungleWelcome to the second episode of the Vietnam series for the Australian war history podcast. In this episode, we talk about more of Mick's story, some of what it's like to fight in the jungle and the dynamics of working in a SAS squad. Patreon: www.patreon.com/auswarhistory Mick's website: https://www.imprimaturbooks.com.au/micks-blog/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/imprimaturbooks/ Simmo, the book by Mick can be bought online.
2021-10-0452 min
Australian War History PodcastS02E01 - Vietnam - Mick MaloneWelcome to the first episode of the Vietnam series for the Australian war history podcast. In this episode, we introduce you to the story of Mick Malone a distinguished SAS soldier who served in Vietnam. Patreon: www.patreon.com/auswarhistory Mick's website: https://www.imprimaturbooks.com.au/micks-blog/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/imprimaturbooks/ Simmo, the book by Mick can be bought online.
2021-09-2638 min
Australian War History PodcastS01E06 - Timor - The Woods are BurningWelcome to the sixth and final episode of the Timor series for the Australian War history podcast. In this episode, we cover the end of the August push by the Japanese, the reality of a bad diet in grueling terrain and we remember a great Australian, Uncle Jack. Some of the books we use to cross-check facts: All the Bull's Men A History of the 2nd Independent Company and 2/2 Commando Squadron
2019-12-0146 minAustralian War History PodcastS01E05 - Timor - The August PushWelcome to the fifth episode of the Australian War history podcast. In this episode, we discuss the August push by the Japanese that came close to wiping the Australian Force out. The Japanese commanders were getting frustrated with the Australian gorilla-style tactics, which Brigadier Potts was using so successfully. The Japanese were hungry to bring the fight to the Australian troops' doorstep. Some of the books we use to cross-check facts: All the Bull's Men A History of the 2nd Independent Company and 2/2 Commando Squadron
2019-11-0926 minAustralian War History PodcastS01E03 - Timor - Winnie the War WinnerWelcome to the fourth episode of the Australian War history podcast. In this episode, we look at the hallowed corridors of the Australian War Memorial there is a section that is focussed on Winnie the War Winner. This makeshift piece of equipment was central to the Double Red Diamonds' ongoing survival on Timor. For two months after the Japanese invasion on February 19, 1942, Australia believed that the troops on Timor had been overcome by the Japanese juggernaut pushing south. Australian technicians/soldiers on Timor had been working on an apparatus that would establish contact with the mainland. This episode deals...
2019-10-2632 minAustralian War History PodcastS01E03 - Timor - The GuidesWelcome to the third episode of the Australian War history podcast. In this episode, we look at the role that the Timor Creados played in helping to defend against the Japanese invasion. An ambush that got out of hand quickly. Plus a tragic event that Doc Wheatly was still moved by, even though a half-century had passed. Some of the books we use to cross-check facts: All the Bull's Men A History of the 2nd Independent Company and 2/2 Commando Squadron
2019-10-1230 minAustralian War History PodcastS01E02 - Timor - First EncounterWelcome to the second episode of the Australian War history podcast. In this episode, we look at the arrival of the Australians in Timor and the difficulties in finding a suitable base. As well as an "edge of your seat" story of one man's first encounter with the Japanese changing the course of his life. Buckle in, this one really is an incredible story of surviving the impossible. We also uncover some of Uncle Jack's colourful past. Some of the books we use to cross-check facts: All the Bull's Men A His...
2019-09-2832 minAustralian War History PodcastEpisode 1 - TimorWelcome to the first episode of the Australian War history podcast. In this episode, we look at our interest in military history, briefly cover the storm clouds building in Europe after the German blitzkrieg batters Poland on September 1, 1939, the total unpreparedness of the Australian armed forces, the genesis of 2nd 2nd Independent Company, its training at Wilson's Promontory and Katherine, their journey to Darwin and eventually Timor. In this podcast, Adam refers to World at War, Narrated by Laurence Olivier The comic books Wayne referred to Commando: Battle of Britain - Scramble!
2019-09-1035 min