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In this insightful episode of the Talking Pools Podcast, host Andrea welcomes Kevin Stempien of X-Pert Pool Service as a special guest. Kevin steps in for the regular host, Rudy, who is away for this session. The focus of the conversation revolves around the critical topic of calcium problems in swimming pools.

Key Highlights:

1. Introduction and Greetings:
   • Andrea starts the episode with a warm welcome and introduces Kevin Stempien to the listeners. She provides a brief background on Kevin's extensive experience and expertise in the pool service industry.
2. Understanding Calcium Issues:
   • Kevin dives into the core issue of calcium problems in swimming pools, explaining the different types of calcium compounds that can affect pool water and surfaces. He differentiates between calcium hardness and calcium scale, providing clear definitions and implications for pool maintenance.
3. Causes of Calcium Build-Up:
   • The discussion covers the common causes of calcium build-up, including high calcium levels in the source water, improper water balance, and the impact of high temperatures. Kevin also touches on regional differences and how they influence calcium levels.
4. Identifying Calcium Problems:
   • Kevin shares practical tips on how to identify calcium-related issues in swimming pools. He describes visual signs such as cloudy water, rough pool surfaces, and white, chalky deposits. Listeners learn about the importance of regular water testing and monitoring calcium hardness levels.
5. Preventive Measures and Solutions:
   • The episode provides actionable advice on preventing and addressing calcium problems. Kevin discusses the significance of maintaining proper water balance, using sequestering agents, and implementing regular cleaning and maintenance routines. He also highlights the role of professional water treatment services in managing calcium levels.
6. Q&A Session:
   • Andrea and Kevin engage in a Q&A session,

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In this insightful episode of the Talking Pools Podcast, hosts Steve and Wayne dive into the crucial topic of selling safety equipment as a dual strategy to enhance both profits and pool safety. With their extensive experience and knowledge in the pool service industry, they offer valuable advice and practical tips for pool service entrepreneurs looking to expand their business offerings while prioritizing customer safety.

Key Discussion Points:

1. Importance of Pool Safety:
   • Steve and Wayne begin by emphasizing the paramount importance of pool safety. They discuss common safety hazards associated with swimming pools, such as drowning risks, slips, and falls, and the responsibility of pool service professionals to address these concerns.
2. Market Demand for Safety Equipment:
   • The hosts highlight the growing market demand for pool safety equipment. With increasing awareness about pool safety among homeowners and property managers, there is a significant opportunity for pool service businesses to meet this demand and differentiate themselves from competitors.
3. Types of Safety Equipment:
   • Steve and Wayne provide an overview of various types of safety equipment that can be offered, including:
     • Pool covers and safety nets
     • Alarms (door, gate, and pool alarms)
     • Fencing and barriers
     • Anti-slip surfaces and mats
     • Life-saving equipment (life rings, hooks, and vests)
4. Selling Strategies:
   • The hosts share effective strategies for selling safety equipment. They discuss the importance of educating customers about the benefits of safety equipment, conducting safety audits, and offering personalized recommendations based on the specific needs of each pool.
5. Integrating Safety Equipment into Service Packages:
   • Steve and Wayne suggest ways to integrate safety equipment sales into existing service packages. They discuss bundling services, offering discounts for package deals, and providing ongoing maintenance for safety equipment to ensure long-term customer satisfaction.
6. Case Studies and Success Stories:
   • To illustrate the potential benefits, the hosts share real-life case studies and success stories from pool service companies that have successfully incorporated safety equipment sales into their business model. These examples demonstrate how offering safety equipment can lead to increased customer loyalty, higher profits, and a safer pool environment.
7. Overcoming Challenges:
   • Steve and Wayne address common challenges that pool service entrepreneurs might face when selling safety equipment, such as initial investment costs, customer skepticism, and competition. They provide practical solutions and tips for overcoming these obstacles.

The episode concludes with Steve and Wayne reiterating the dual benefits of selling safety equipment – enhancing pool safety for customers and boosting profits for businesses. They encourage pool service entrepreneurs to take proactive steps towards integrating safety equipment into their service offerings and to continuously educate themselves about the latest safety innovations in the industry.

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Summary

Social media can be a game changer for service-based small businesses when leveraged correctly. It can elevate your brand, attract new customers, and foster loyalty among existing customers. Each social media platform serves a different purpose, and it's important to tailor your tactics accordingly. Defining your goals, understanding your target audience, and creating a content calendar are essential for effective social media marketing. Visual content, storytelling, and user-generated content are powerful tools for engagement. Paid advertising, analytics, influencer partnerships, and repurposing content can further enhance your social media strategy.

Keywords

social media, service-based small businesses, brand awareness, target audience, content creation, engagement, paid advertising, analytics, influencer partnerships, repurposing content

Takeaways

• Social media can elevate your brand and attract new customers for service-based small businesses.
• Each social media platform serves a different purpose, and tactics should be tailored accordingly.
• Defining goals, understanding the target audience, and creating a content calendar are essential for effective social media marketing.
• Visual content, storytelling, and user-generated content are powerful tools for engagement.
• Paid advertising, analytics, influencer partnerships, and repurposing content can enhance social media strategy.

Titles

• Maximizing Content Volume through Repurposing
• Defining Goals and Understanding Your Target Audience

Sound Bites

• "Social media is a game changer for service-based small businesses."
• "Not all social media platforms are created equal. Each serves a different purpose."
• "Understanding who your target audience is will help you create the content that resonates with them."

Chapters

00:00
Harnessing the Power of Social Media

04:40
Defining Goals and Understanding the Target Audience

06:27
Creating a Content Calendar

09:05
Engagement Strategies

11:40
Boosting Reach with Paid Advertising

15:27
Leveraging Influencer Partnerships

18:15
The Key to Social Media Success
#SocialMediaMarketing

#SmallBusinessGrowth

#ServiceBusiness

#BrandAwareness

#ContentStrategy

#CustomerEngagement

#DigitalMarketing

#BusinessTips

#MarketingStrategy

#EntrepreneurLife

#InfluencerMarketing

#ContentCreation

#PaidAdvertising

#BusinessSuccess

#MarketingTips

#SocialMediaStrategy

#RepurposeContent

#BusinessGrowth

#OnlineMarketing

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Mondays Down Under: Importance of Swimming Pool Inspections for Buyers

Hosts: Peter, Shane, and Lee

Episode Overview:

In this enlightening episode of the Mondays Down Under show on the Talking Pools Podcast, hosts Peter, Shane, and Lee dive into the crucial topic of swimming pool inspections for prospective home buyers. The episode is packed with expert insights and practical advice that pool service professionals and homebuyers alike will find invaluable.

Key Topics Discussed:

1. Importance of Swimming Pool Inspections:
   • Thorough Evaluations: The hosts discuss why comprehensive swimming pool inspections are vital for homebuyers. These inspections ensure that the pool is in good condition and safe for use, preventing any unforeseen expenses or safety hazards after the purchase.
   • Peace of Mind: Emphasis is placed on the peace of mind that a detailed inspection provides to buyers, helping them make informed decisions.
2. Commonality of Light Fixture Problems:
   • Frequent Issues: Light fixtures are a common problem area in swimming pools. The hosts share their experiences and observations on why these issues arise and how they can be identified during an inspection.
   • Safety Concerns: The potential safety hazards related to faulty light fixtures are highlighted, stressing the need for regular checks and maintenance.
3. Building Relationships with Realtors and Home Inspectors:
   • Networking Benefits: Peter, Shane, and Lee discuss the importance of building strong relationships with realtors and home inspectors. These partnerships can lead to more business opportunities and referrals.
   • Mutual Support: The episode delves into how pool professionals can support realtors and inspectors by providing reliable inspection services, thus fostering a mutually beneficial relationship.
4. Potential Profit from Pool Equipment Inspections:
   • Revenue Opportunities: The hosts explore the lucrative potential of offering pool equipment inspections. Identifying issues with pumps, heaters, and other equipment not only ensures the pool's functionality but also opens up avenues for repair and replacement services.
   • Long-term Gains: Investing time in thorough inspections can lead to long-term gains, as satisfied clients are more likely to return for regular maintenance and recommend services to others.

Conclusion:

This episode of Mondays Down Under is a must-listen for anyone involved in the swimming pool industry, real estate, or home inspection. Peter, Shane, and Lee provide a wealth of knowledge on the importance of swimming pool inspections, common light fixture problems, building beneficial relationships, and the financial benefits of thorough inspections. Tune in to gain expert tips and enhance your understanding of the critical role of pool inspections in the real estate market.

Listen to the full episode on the Talking Pools Podcast and stay ahead in the pool service industry with Peter, Shane, and Lee's expert advice!

4o

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In this episode, Andrea and Rudy cover various pool maintenance topics and common misconceptions. They humorously explore the idea of Andrea "dying" on the show and branching into true crime podcasts. The discussion highlights pool-related incidents like stingray stings and stepping on sharp objects, emphasizing the hazards of pool maintenance.

They debunk myths about black algae having roots and clarify the misconceptions about using muriatic acid to lower total alkalinity and pH levels. A recurring theme is the lack of dissemination of crucial information within the pool industry. They address the limited awareness of silver and copper test kits, the focus on less significant issues, and resistance to new methods. The misinformation surrounding magic erasers in pools is also discussed.

Special Segment

Welcome, IPSSA Members & Non-member Pool Service Pros!

Join us for a special Virtual Chapter meeting featuring Samantha Tiegs from Eeziblue, who will share insights on how pool service companies can thrive in e-commerce. Topics include choosing the right business model, selecting platforms, building an online store, and effective marketing strategies.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Professional Pool Guy Joins "Bunker Heights" as Associate Producer

Rudy Stankowitz, a 30-year pool industry veteran, joins the film "Bunker Heights" as an associate producer. Known for his contributions to the swimming pool industry and the Talking Pools Podcast, Rudy is excited to be part of this genre-bending film. Directed by Drew Fortier and produced by Hannah Fierman, the film blends crime, horror, and dark comedy. With an ensemble cast, "Bunker Heights" promises an unforgettable cinematic experience.

For more information about Rudy, contact: rudy@cpoclass.com.

Bunker Heights Trailer: https://youtu.be/YMcauPBDuKM?si=TgTANcJuTnBnjTCB

About 'Bunker Heights': A genre-bending film written and directed by Drew Fortier, currently in post-production.

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Hosts: Wayne and Steve

Release Date: Thursday, July 18, 2024

Key Highlights:

1. 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.
2. 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 on modern training techniques, such as online courses, virtual simulations, and interactive webinars. He discusses how these methods can be more flexible and accessible for techs in today’s digital age.
3. Challenges in Training:
   • Both hosts delve into the common challenges faced during the training process. Wayne mentions issues like varying levels of prior knowledge among trainees and the need for consistent training standards.
   • Steve addresses the challenges of keeping training engaging and up-to-date with the latest industry advancements. He also touches on the difficulties of remote training and ensuring practical skills are effectively learned.
4. Personal Experiences:
   • Wayne and Steve share personal anecdotes from their own experiences in training pool service techs. Wayne recalls a memorable trainee who excelled through hands-on learning, while Steve talks about a successful online training program he implemented for his team.
5. Best Practices:
   • The hosts provide actionable tips and best practices for training pool service technicians. They discuss the importance of ongoing education, leveraging technology, and fostering a supportive learning environment.
   • They also highlight the benefits of certification programs and continuous professional development to keep techs at the top of their game.
6. Q&A Segment:
   • Wayne and Steve answer listener questions about training, offering advice on specific challenges and providing additional insights based on their expertise.
7. Conclusion:
   • The episode wraps up with Wayne and Steve summarizing the key takeaways from their discussion. They encourage listeners to invest in comprehensive training programs and stay updated with industry trends to ensure their teams are well-equipped to provide excellent pool service.

Tune in to the full episode to hear more about Wayne and Steve’s perspectives on training pool service technicians and get valuable tips for improving your training programs!

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Introduction to Lacey's Business Approach: Lacey describes their business environment as reminiscent of the Wild West, emphasizing a more intuitive, less numbers-driven approach. They rely on creating a comfortable, family-owned atmosphere in their retail store, which includes unique icebreakers like massage chairs to engage customers.

Employee and Customer Interaction:

• Retail Strategy: The massage chairs serve as a great conversation starter, breaking down the usual sales barrier and making interactions more relaxed and personable.
• Employee Engagement: Lacey values having employees understand different aspects of the business. She suggests that even accountants should spend time in the field to grasp the bigger picture and foster mutual respect among various roles.

Demographic Shifts and Business Impact: Lacey notes the influx of people moving from larger cities to smaller areas, impacting the customer base and bringing in new business. This trend is observed across different regions, including Florida.

Generational Perspectives and Work Ethic:

• Generational Aspirations: Lacey contrasts the older generation's work ethic with the younger generation's pursuit of happiness, highlighting a shift in values and aspirations.
• Work Hard, Play Hard: She emphasizes the importance of maintaining a strong work ethic while balancing it with enjoyment, hoping this philosophy endures despite generational changes.

Communication and Understanding Roles:

• Interdepartmental Understanding: Lacey stresses the importance of employees understanding each other's roles to improve overall operations. This includes acknowledging the challenges faced by different departments, such as service, construction, and retail.
• Builder and Service Coordination: She advocates for better communication between builders and service professionals to ensure pools are designed with maintenance in mind, reducing future service challenges.

Employee Motivation and Integration:

• New Hires: Lacey explains that new hires typically start in service to learn the basics before potentially moving to other areas like retail or construction. This method helps determine their best fit within the company.
• Seasonal Employment: She notes the value of employees who can transition between roles, such as selling spas in winter and working in construction in summer, enhancing their utility and job security.

Industry Connection and Growth:

• Networking: Lacey highlights the importance of connecting with industry peers across the U.S., both through monthly calls and attending national or localized shows. This networking fosters learning and brings new ideas back to the business.
• Employee Development: She believes that exposing employees to the broader industry context is crucial for their development, helping them see the bigger picture and strive for personal and professional growth.

Closing Remarks: Lacey concludes by reinforcing the benefits of involving employees in the larger industry dialogue, encouraging them to bring back new ideas and positively impact the business. This involvement helps in making informed decisions and fosters

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Episode Overview: Turning Down Dangerous Pool Jobs

Hosts: Peter, Lee, and Shane

Podcast Series: Mondays Down Under, Talking Pools Podcast

In this eye-opening episode, Peter, Lee, and Shane delve into the critical topic of safety in the pool service industry. The trio shares their experiences and insights on situations where they had to turn down jobs due to severe safety concerns or hazardous pool designs.

Key Discussion Points:

1. Initial Inspections and Red Flags:
   • The hosts discuss the importance of thorough initial inspections to identify potential safety hazards in homeowners' yards.
   • They highlight common red flags that signal a job might not be worth the risk, such as unstable structures, improper fencing, and electrical hazards.
2. Real-Life Examples of Safety Issues:
   • Peter, Lee, and Shane share specific examples from their careers where they encountered dangerous conditions.
   • These anecdotes include pools with inadequate grounding, unstable decking, and hazardous chemical storage.
3. Insane Pool Designs:
   • The hosts talk about some of the most outrageous and unsafe pool designs they've encountered.
   • They emphasize the risks associated with poorly designed pools, such as sharp edges, insufficient drainage, and overly steep slopes.
4. Decision-Making Process:
   • The discussion covers how they make the tough decision to walk away from a job.
   • They explain the balance between wanting to help a client and ensuring their own safety and the safety of their team.
5. Educating Homeowners:
   • Peter, Lee, and Shane stress the importance of educating homeowners about pool safety and the potential dangers of certain designs.
   • They provide tips on how to diplomatically communicate safety concerns to clients who might not be aware of the risks.
6. Industry Standards and Best Practices:
   • The episode wraps up with a conversation about industry standards and best practices for ensuring safety in pool design and maintenance.
   • The hosts offer advice to fellow pool service professionals on how to stay informed about safety regulations and continuously improve their inspection protocols.

Conclusion:

This episode serves as a crucial reminder of the importance of prioritizing safety in the pool service industry. Peter, Lee, and Shane's experiences and insights provide valuable lessons for both homeowners and pool professionals, underscoring the need for vigilance and caution in all aspects of pool maintenance and design.

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