Claim OwnershipPool Professionals Podcast
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The Pool Professionals Podcast is an ongoing series produced by the Pool & Hot Tub Alliance, where Pool & Hot Tub Professionals discuss important topics and trends related to their business.
43 Episodes
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Brian Van Bower talks with Chris Trevathan, Operations Manager at Aquatic Glazing International, about the fascinating world of underwater pool windows. Chris shares his expertise on acrylic installation techniques, from materials and engineering requirements to cost considerations and design challenges. Together, Brian and Chris explore real-world examples highlighting how proper planning, quality materials, and expert installation make all the difference in creating stunning, durable underwater views.
Brian Van Bower sits down with Tracy Bruno, Founder and CEO of Bruno Design Associates, to discuss her journey from stay-at-home mom to successful pool and outdoor living designer. Tracy shares how she built her design-build firm from the ground up, the importance of charging for design work, and how GENESIS® education helped her elevate both her technical expertise and business insight. Together, Brian and Tracy explore the value of fostering collaboration between designers and builders to deliver exceptional results. Tracy also offers insight into her design-build process, client relationships, and the power of combining creativity with construction leadership to create functional, beautiful spaces that stand the test of time.
Brian talks with Dr. Adam Katchmarchi, PHTA's new Vice President of Educational Development, about the launch of the Center of Excellence—a new online learning platform offering on-demand courses for pool and spa professionals. Adam shares his vision for expanding accessible, high-quality education across all sectors, including business and leadership training. Together, they discuss how PHTA's growing lineup of courses, webinars, and future learning initiatives will help professionals sharpen their skills, grow their businesses, and elevate the industry.
Sabeena Hickman, PHTA President & CEO, joins Jamie Novak and Kendall Large of POOLCORP to discuss the launch of Women of Water (WOW), a new initiative designed to support, connect, and elevate women in the aquatics industry. They explore the importance of mentorship, networking, and professional development, share POOLCORP's commitment to gender inclusion, and highlight how WOW will debut at the International Pool Spa Patio Expo with future events, webinars, and resources to build lasting momentum and expand women's leadership across the industry.
Brian chats with Lisa Ryckeley, GENESIS® Concierge for over 20 years, about how she guides students through the program's diverse courses, from construction and engineering to design specialties, based on their unique goals and business needs. Lisa shares how GENESIS® fosters a supportive learning community, offers flexible virtual and on-demand options, and continues to evolve with new programs like the upcoming International Pool Spa Patio Expo. She also highlights the many benefits of PHTA membership, including free and discounted courses, scholarships, and customized training, all designed to help pool and spa professionals advance their skills and careers.
Reggie Bodwin, a GENESIS® Certified Master Pool Builder, shares his expertise in pool design, construction, and maintenance while highlighting the critical role of proper hydraulics and the ongoing need for education in the industry. He also offers valuable insights on the evolving pool and spa market, the impact of professional training programs like GENESIS®, and why exceptional customer service remains the cornerstone of lasting client relationships.
Brian Van Bauer sits down with Alicia Stephens, Director of Training & Education for BioLab's Pro Dealer Division, to explore how companies can recruit, retain, and train top-tier talent, harness technology to boost efficiency, and rethink traditional chlorine use by pairing it with complementary products. They discuss the growing value of trade schools as a career path into pool service, and Alicia shares a preview of her upcoming roundtable discussion at the GENESIS® MasterMind Summit in Fort Lauderdale, along with how BioLab can be a powerful partner for your business.
Renowned pool and landscape designer Kirk Bianchi joins host Brian Van Bower for an insightful conversation on design philosophy, client engagement, and industry growth. From integrating pools and landscapes to building trust through cultural refinement, Kirk shares practical advice and personal stories from his journey. He also previews his upcoming GENESIS Master Designer Methods class at the MasterMind Summit this September and introduces "The Atelier," a new design mentorship community.
Brian Van Bower chats with Ricard Madurell, Director of Pool Horizons, and Sabeena Hickman, CAE, President & CEO of PHTA, about redefining the swimming pool industry's narrative through the global Pool Horizons initiative. Together, they explore how pools contribute to health, water safety, sustainability, and community resilience.
Brian Van Bower sits down with Rick Black, GENESIS® Instructor and Director of Product Training at Latham Pools, to explore the evolution, engineering, and growing popularity of fiberglass pools. With over 30 years in the industry, Rick shares key insights on fiberglass pool installation, material advantages, automation trends, and how builders can better educate homeowners. Whether you're new to fiberglass or looking to refine your skills, this episode is packed with practical tips, industry context, and growth opportunities.
Brian chats with Randy Dukes, Technical Sales Director at CL Industries, about common pool surface issues and how to solve them. From discoloration and delamination to water chemistry and finish application, Randy shares expert insights drawn from decades in the field. Whether you're dealing with salt systems, startup challenges, or cementitious finishes, this episode delivers real-world solutions to help builders and service pros raise the bar on pool quality and longevity.
Brian chats with Skip Phillips, Master CBP and GENESIS® Ambassador & Co-Founder, about the evolution and best practices of vanishing edge and perimeter overflow pool design. Skip highlights the importance of understanding the purpose behind these features, common design mistakes like undersized catch basins, and best practices for collector tank sizing and noise reduction. They also discuss the value of GENESIS® education in raising industry standards and preview the upcoming MasterMind Summit. This episode offers practical insights for anyone designing or building high-end edge pools.
Brian chats with Jeff Parker, Master CBP and CEO of OceanScape Design Inc., about how digital tools, AI, and design software are transforming the pool industry. They explore the shift to paperless systems, the power of client presentations tools, and the importance of balancing technology with personal connections. Plus, they dive into GENESIS education, color theory, and why charging for design services matters.
Kevin Post, Chairman & CEO of Counsilman-Hunsaker, talks with Brian about the lifelong benefits of aquatics—from health and mobility to career opportunities. They discuss modern splash pads as community hubs, sustainable pool design, energy efficiency in high school pools, and the need for skilled labor in the industry. Together, they highlight how well-designed aquatic facilities can positively impact lives and communities.
Steven Swanson, owner of The Pool Company, shares key principles for success—staying true to your values, setting goals, and delivering on promises. He highlights the power of referrals, client relationships, education, and employee motivation, all rooted in integrity and community impact.
Jeanne Mendelson, PHTA Vice President of Education & Events, shares how education and certification are shaping the future of the industry. She discusses the growth of the CPO program, the expansion of GENESIS® courses, and upcoming events like the Day on the Hill, the GENESIS Roadshow, and the Mastermind event in Florida. Jeanne also highlights scholarship opportunities, including the Vance Gillette Scholarship, helping more pros access industry-leading education.
Israel Saari, Category Manager of Digital Solutions at Pentair, joins Brian Van Bower to explore how automation and remote monitoring are transforming the pool industry. They discuss how these technologies enhance efficiency, create new revenue streams, and help pool professionals stay ahead of growing homeowner demand for smart, connected solutions.
Host Brian Van Bower welcomes Vito Mariano, president of Basecrete Technologies, to discuss the importance of waterproofing in the pool industry. Vito shares insights on how waterproofing protects the pool shell, enhances plaster adhesion, and prevents damage from water intrusion. They cover best practices for application, the role of rough surfaces in efficient plaster bonding, and why many builders still overlook waterproofing. Vito also emphasizes proper techniques, on-site training, and the need for patience in application to avoid delamination.
Brett Abbott, Founder & CEO of Pool Builder Marketing, breaks down how the pool industry is adjusting post-pandemic. With the COVID boom pulling sales forward, new pool demand is slowing—especially for budget-friendly options—while renovations are on the rise. Brett shares why relationship-building and reputation matter more than just posting on social media, how businesses are adapting with alternative materials and pool types, and why Northern builders are feeling the squeeze on pricing. Plus, we dive into the importance of education and why competing on quality beats racing to the bottom on price.
Brian Van Bower sits down with PHTA President & CEO Sabeena Hickman, CAE. They discuss PHTA's growth, key initiatives like Step Into Swim, and the evolution of GENESIS. Sabeena highlights the industry's strengths and challenges, emphasizing collaboration and the importance of communicating the industry's value. Learn how PHTA is leading the way in education, advocacy, and elevating the industry.
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