• Episode 12: Chrisie Dahl-Blanco on the Challenges of Being a Woman in a Male-Dominated Field
    Jul 15 2024

    Custom pool designer Chrisie Dahl-Blanco joins host Brian Van Bower to discuss thriving on word-of-mouth referrals and the challenges of being a woman in a male-dominated field, often needing to assert herself strongly. She highlights her transformative educational journey with GENESIS and the importance of being outspoken and proving her expertise. Chrisie admires the strong women in the industry and advises newcomers to educate themselves, strive for excellence, and persist through setbacks to earn respect.

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    30 mins
  • Episode 11: Robert Baxter on the Importance of a Superintendent in Pool Construction
    Jul 1 2024

    Brian Van Bower and guest Robert Baxter, Aquatic Construction Liaison for Robax Development, discuss the crucial role of a superintendent in swimming pool construction. Superintendents manage budgets, ensure organizational consistency, and handle client interactions. They emphasize the importance of detailed planning, documentation, and trust within the company. Tune in for valuable insights into effective project management in the pool construction industry.

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    38 mins
  • Episode 10: Andy Kaner on Attention to Detail in Pool Building
    Jun 17 2024

    Host Brian Van Bower joins guest Andy Kaner, they emphasize the importance of meticulous planning and attention to detail in pool building. They discuss the value of both hand drawings and digital drawings in the design process, highlighting how hand drawings allow for quick adjustments and idea generation, while digital drawings facilitate communication with architects and engineers. They introduce D180, a course focusing on drawing principles and communication techniques, suitable for those without prior drawing education. The conversation delves into what should be included in a pool plan, such as title pages, site plans, layout details, and equipment lists. They stress the significance of thorough review processes before finalizing plans. Additionally, they emphasize the importance of early involvement with designers to ensure proper equipment estimation and space planning, ultimately aiming for optimal project performance.

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    44 mins
  • Mike Farley on Client Approach and Project Collaboration
    May 30 2024

    Host Brian Van Bower interviews Mike Farley, Elite Design Consultant at Claffey Pools, focusing on client approach and project collaboration. Farley stresses the importance of defining style and focal points early on, emphasizing the role of architecture in inspiring pool projects. He highlights the necessity of adapting to changes and integrating landscape design for cohesive outdoor spaces. Farley also discusses the value of education and charging for design services, emphasizing their long-term benefits in improving profitability and client commitment. Overall, the episode provides valuable insights into client interactions, collaboration, and professional development in the pool industry.

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    34 mins
  • Maria Moscato on European Design and Wellness
    May 15 2024

    Host Brian Van Bower and GENESIS co-founder Skip Phillips are joined by special guest Maria Moscato, the newly appointed GENESIS International Design & Wellness Faculty Advisor. Maria discusses her goals for GENESIS students, focusing on European/Italian design and the wellness market within the pool/spa sector. She emphasizes the importance of integrating pool designs with the surrounding landscape to promote wellness and mental calmness. She highlights the significance of global design ideas and discusses the longstanding connection between environment and wellness. Maria also explores the concept of "wellness" and its new meaning of "longevity.”

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    37 mins
  • Feras Irikat on Storytelling through Color
    Apr 30 2024

    Host Brian Van Bower sits down with GENESIS Design Faculty Advisor Feras Irikat, Director of Design & Marketing at Lunada Bay Tile, to explore the intricate world of color theory and its application in design projects. They delve into the importance of understanding the project's objectives and function, considering elements like sun exposure, shade, and emotional storytelling to create a cohesive environment. Feras emphasizes the role of color in eliciting biological responses and guiding clients through the design process as an expert. They discuss the significance of trends in design but caution against blindly following them without considering the project's unique requirements. Additionally, they highlight the critical role of lighting in enhancing the overall design experience.

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    49 mins
  • Charlie Claffey on Financial Literacy and Risk Mitigation
    Apr 15 2024

    Host Brian Van Bower and guest Charlie Claffey, President of Claffey Pools in Southlake, TX, explore the pivotal metric of profitability in running a successful business. They stress the necessity of understanding financial performance and the importance of lead generation tracking for revenue forecasting. Charlie's advice to new pool company owners is to become an expert in financial literacy in order to mitigate risks and ensure sustainability. Ultimately, this episode underscores the imperative of active involvement in financial matters to safeguard your company's success, particularly during challenging times.

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    39 mins
  • Paul John Boulifard on Collaborating with Clients
    Mar 29 2024

    Host Brian Van Bower welcomes GENESIS Design Faculty Chair Paul John Boulifard, Architect + LEED AP, to the show. The two discuss the primary factors that shape outdoor environments. Emphasizing the importance of collaboration with clients, the conversation highlights how understanding their needs, vision, and expectations is paramount, positioning professionals as invaluable resources. Moreover, the influence of home architecture on project design is explored, shedding light on the significance of listening to the client and ensuring that everyone involved has a voice in project leadership. This episode also delves into the challenges and benefits of collaboration in outdoor design, underscoring the value of conversation and networking for continual education and learning opportunities.

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    37 mins