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This episode of the Talking Pools Podcast is a whirlwind of surprises, laughter, and fiery tales (quite literally). Andrea and Paulette kick things off with a juicy follow-up on one of Paulette’s infamous “revenge customers.” The story is every bit as wild as you’d expect, with a twist that’ll leave you shaking your head and laughing out loud.

From there, the duo dives into the serious topic of fires. They discuss the devastating blaze at the Biolab facility, unpacking its ongoing impact on the pool industry, and reflect on the recent Los Angeles fires, sharing heartfelt thoughts for those affected. Paulette then shocks Andrea (and listeners) with a personal story about accidentally setting her own house on fire—a tale that’s both cautionary and hilarious in classic Paulette style.

Andrea shifts gears to talk about her strange battle with January pollen (yes, in January!) while sipping on what she dubs “witches’ brew,” a concoction that may or may not include something spooky.

The conversation takes a quirky turn as Paulette drops a bizarre, semi-scientific tidbit: Could chlorine mixed with cocoa butter be the answer to ending pollution? While the idea seems straight out of a sci-fi pool tech dream, it’s just one of the many humorous and offbeat moments that make this episode a must-listen.

Between heartfelt discussions, hilarious stories, and plenty of unexpected twists, this episode serves up equal parts humor, insight, and a dash of witchcraft. Don’t miss it!

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In this thought-provoking episode, Peter, Shane, and Lee tackle the devastating wildfires in California, drawing parallels to the bushfires they frequently encounter in Australia. The hosts share their unique insights, blending firsthand experience with a global perspective on wildfire management and prevention.

Key Topics Discussed:

1. Understanding the California Wildfires:
   • The hosts examine the key factors contributing to the deadly wildfires in California, including climate change, prolonged droughts, and human activity.
   • They explore how California’s geography and vegetation create a perfect storm for fire outbreaks, drawing striking similarities to Australia’s own wildfire-prone landscapes.
2. Comparisons with Australian Bushfires:
   • Shane and Lee share firsthand experiences with bushfires in Australia, providing a detailed look at how similar conditions—such as dry heat, strong winds, and dense vegetation—ignite and fuel massive fires.
   • They discuss how Australian communities have adapted to these recurring events, offering lessons and strategies that could benefit California.
3. Fire Management and Prevention:
   • The hosts delve into fire mitigation efforts, from controlled burns and land management practices to the importance of community awareness and preparedness.
   • They discuss the role of government and local authorities in implementing preventative measures and responding to emergencies effectively.
4. Global Climate Trends:
   • The episode highlights the impact of global climate change on increasing the frequency and intensity of wildfires, emphasizing the need for international cooperation in addressing this crisis.
   • Peter, Shane, and Lee stress the importance of sustainable practices and policy changes to reduce the risk of catastrophic fires.
5. Human and Environmental Toll:
   • The conversation shifts to the human and ecological costs of these fires, from loss of life and property to the destruction of wildlife habitats and ecosystems.
   • They discuss recovery efforts and the resilience of affected communities in both California and Australia.

Why This Episode Matters:

By connecting the wildfire challenges faced in California with those in Australia, Peter, Shane, and Lee provide a unique, cross-continental perspective on one of the world’s most pressing environmental issues. Their discussion not only sheds light on the causes and consequences of wildfires but also highlights actionable steps for prevention and recovery.

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Summary
In this dynamic episode of Talking Pools, Rudy Stankowitz delves into critical topics impacting the pool service industry and small business owners. He addresses the importance of contractor licensing, explores the implications of Beneficial Ownership Information (BOI) for business compliance, and emphasizes staying ahead of regulations to protect legitimate operations. Rudy is joined by Pete Paloalto from Coachella Valley Pools, who shares his inspiring journey from banking to pool service entrepreneurship. Together, they discuss the rise of Pete’s popular ‘Tip of the Day’ series, the role of social media in business growth, balancing family and work, and the value of community in the industry. Rudy lightens the mood with a humorous exploration of the word ‘dingleberry,’ showcasing the quirks of language and its cultural evolution.

Takeaways

• A new contractor in Florida is reporting unlicensed companies, highlighting the importance of obtaining proper contractor licensing.
• Beneficial Ownership Information (BOI) filings with FINCEN are vital for small business transparency and compliance.
• Non-compliance with BOI regulations can lead to severe penalties; accurate and up-to-date filings are essential.
• Consulting financial professionals is advisable for navigating BOI requirements.
• Pete’s ‘Tip of the Day’ series started as a challenge and propelled his Instagram following from 350 to nearly 5,000, underscoring the power of social media for business growth.
• Transitioning from banking to pool service helped Pete manage anxiety and find a fulfilling career path.
• The pandemic had minimal impact on Pete’s business, thanks to strong community support and adaptability.
• Pete prioritizes balancing family life with work and emphasizes mental health awareness in the service industry.
• Rudy’s humorous take on the word ‘dingleberry’ illustrates the absurdity and evolution of language, adding a light-hearted touch to the discussion.
• Understanding and complying with industry regulations safeguards businesses against fraud and enhances long-term success.

This episode is a blend of practical insights, personal stories, and humor, offering something valuable for every pool service professional and small business owner.

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Episode 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:

1. Introduction and Industry Reflections
   • Wayne 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.
2. The Problem with Over-Marketing in Pool Products
   • Discussion on the over-marketing of pool products and the spread of misinformation.
   • Wayne shares his frustration with "snake oil" products and the importance of accurate information.
3. Debunking Pool Myths and Misleading Products
   • Steve and Wayne debunk common pool myths and highlight misleading products in the market.
   • They emphasize the need for proper product validation and regulation.
4. The Challenges of Product Validation and Regulation
   • The hosts discuss the difficulties in validating and regulating pool products.
   • They stress the importance of simplicity and effective practices in pool maintenance.
5. Understanding the Reality of Pool Chemicals
   • An in-depth look at the role of chemicals in pool maintenance.
   • Wayne and Steve explain the benefits and limitations of ozone and UV systems.
6. Effective Practices and Tools for Pool Care
   • Tips and recommendations for maintaining a clean and healthy pool.
   • The hosts share their favorite tools and practices for pool care.
7. Communication Gaps with Manufacturers
   • Discussion on the communication gaps between pool professionals and manufacturers.
   • The importance of proper installation and understanding product specifications.

Conclusion: Steve and Wayne wrap up the episode by summarizing the key points discussed and encouraging listeners to stay informed and vigilant about the products they use. They remind everyone to prioritize simplicity and accuracy in pool maintenance.

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Support the show

Thank you so much for listening! You can find us on social media:

• Facebook
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• Tik Tok

Email us: talkingpools@gmail.com

Text Rudy Now!

This episode of the Talking Pools Podcast Mondays Down Under dives into the challenges and opportunities for pool service professionals working with public and commercial swimming pools, particularly in rural or remote areas of Australia. The discussion explores innovative practices and operational strategies that help community pools stay afloat, including volunteer-run initiatives, creative fundraising, and community engagement events such as dog swimming days at the end of the season.

Key Highlights:

1. Volunteer-Driven Community Pools:
   • Many community pools operate on a small number of paid staff, relying heavily on volunteers for tasks such as ticketing, maintenance, and lifeguarding.
   • Pools host unique events like movie nights and dog-swimming sessions to generate revenue and community interest.
   • Local government and business sponsorships contribute additional financial support, although many facilities are primarily self-funded.
2. Opportunities for Pool Technicians:
   • Pool service professionals in regional areas can become essential resources for public and commercial pools by providing expert advice and specialized services.
   • The importance of understanding state guidelines for public pools and leveraging manufacturer training programs is emphasized.
   • Technicians are encouraged to admit limitations and collaborate with specialists or suppliers for large-scale projects, ensuring the best outcomes for clients.
3. Specialized Training and Certification:
   • Discusses the various certifications required to work on public and commercial pools, such as Group 1 licenses in Western Australia or qualifications for projects over specific monetary thresholds in Queensland and New South Wales.
   • Encourages pool technicians to expand their skill sets through courses on hydraulics, water chemistry, and equipment maintenance, available through suppliers and online resources.
4. Challenges of Commercial Pool Work:
   • Highlights the scale and complexity of commercial systems, such as large pumps, three-phase power systems, and extensive filtration setups.
   • Safety and proper insurance coverage are critical when working on high-stakes projects involving millions of liters of water and heavy-duty equipment.
5. Case Studies and Anecdotes:
   • Hosts share personal experiences with commercial pool projects, ranging from solar heating installations to vinyl liner replacements, illustrating both the rewards and difficulties of these ventures.
   • Shane and Peter note the differing levels of involvement based on local resources and business focus, with Shane targeting strata pools and Peter opting out of public pools entirely due to logistical challenges.
6. Encouragement for Technicians:
   • The hosts stress the potential for rural pool technicians to establish themselves as local experts, building strong relationships with community pools and generating additional revenue streams.
   • They recomm

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summary

In this episode of the Talking Pools podcast, Rudy Stankowitz discusses the complexities and pitfalls of painting swimming pools. He begins with a light-hearted introduction and New Year's wishes before delving into the historical context of the phrase 'mother-father.' The conversation shifts to industry news, including updates on pool care companies and market trends. The main focus is on the drawbacks of pool painting, highlighting its short lifespan, labor-intensive preparation, and susceptibility to damage. Rudy emphasizes the importance of considering long-term solutions over quick fixes, urging listeners to think critically before opting for pool paint.

takeaways

• Painting a pool may seem like a quick fix, but it often leads to more problems.
• The lifespan of pool paint is significantly shorter than other resurfacing options.
• Proper preparation is crucial for any pool painting job.
• Paint can mask underlying issues rather than solve them.
• Pool chemicals can deteriorate painted surfaces quickly.
• Investing in durable surfaces like plaster or tile pays off in the long run.
• Painting a pool can turn maintenance into a challenging task.
• The aesthetic appeal of painted pools is often one-dimensional.
• Consider the long-term value of a pool before deciding to paint.
• Communication with customers about the risks of painting is essential.

Sound Bites

• "Why you should never paint a swimming pool."
• "Painting is the fruit fly of pool finishes."
• "Just think before you paint."

Chapters

00:00
Introduction and New Year's Wishes

00:34
The Linguistic Journey of 'Mother-Father'

04:22
Industry News and Updates

07:51
The Pitfalls of Painting Pools

17:38
Final Thoughts on Pool Maintenance

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Talking Pools Podcast - Episode: December 28, 2024

Hosts: Wayne and Steve

Introduction:

• Wayne and Steve welcome listeners and wish them a happy Thursday.
• They share holiday greetings for Christmas and Hanukkah.

Topics Covered:

1. Seasonal Differences in Pool Care:
   • Discussion on how geography and weather impact pool maintenance.
   • Wayne shares his experience from Maryland, where it's currently 37°F.
   • Steve talks about the milder weather in Long Beach, California, with temperatures ranging from 48°F to 63°F.
2. Geographical Impact on Pool Maintenance:
   • Differences in pool care strategies based on location.
   • Importance of adapting maintenance routines to local climate conditions.
3. Water Testing:
   • Importance of temperature in water testing.
   • Techniques and equipment for accurate water testing.
4. Understanding Water Chemistry and TDS:
   • Explanation of Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) and its significance.
   • Challenges of managing high TDS levels in different regions.
5. Navigating Client Expectations and Pricing:
   • Strategies for managing client expectations.
   • Tips for setting competitive pricing in the pool care industry.
6. Seasonal Business Strategies and Employee Retention:
   • Approaches to maintaining business during off-seasons.
   • Tips for retaining employees year-round.
7. Distributor Relationships and Inventory Management:
   • Importance of building strong relationships with distributors.
   • Effective inventory management strategies for pool companies.
8. Effective Purchasing Strategies:
   • Best practices for purchasing supplies and equipment.
   • How to make cost-effective decisions for your pool business.

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