Contributor, Author at Aquatic Facility Training and Consultants

Blades of Glass – Gripping Serial Killer Thriller

Post author:Contributor
Post published:January 6, 2021
Post category:Author Rudy Stankowitz

Based on True Events! What doesn't kill you may try, try, and try again. I wanted to do something different and outside of my comfort zone. A serial killer thriller…

Jule’s the Pool Girl – A New Year

Post author:Contributor
Post published:January 2, 2021
Post category:Misc.

[responsivevoice_button voice="US English Female" buttontext="Listen to Post"] 2020: It was the best of years; it was the worst of years. While our sense of normalcy changed dramatically, not all of…

Alum CyA Removal Method Step-By-Step

Post author:Contributor
Post published:November 24, 2020
Post category:Chemicals

This is probably a bit overdue, but we decided it would be easiest to bullet point the CyA removal method we are field testing. So, here is the Alum CyA…

Read more about the article Top 7 Pool Problems of 2020

Drowning in Addiction: Reach Out

Post author:Contributor
Post published:November 1, 2020
Post category:Pool Operator Talk News

Hey guys, I know I normally write about technical pool stuff or things that I find humorous. Today I wanted to talk with you guys about something that isn’t filter…

Jules’s Green Pool Algae Treatment Program

Post author:Contributor
Post published:October 10, 2020
Post category:Pool Service Tips

Nearly every day, I get a different first-time visitor to our store saying, “Help! My pool is green!” This is how we usually meet our future new customers. We need…

Variable Speed Pool Pumps

Post author:Contributor
Post published:October 3, 2020
Post category:Equipment

A single-speed pump, or "gas guzzler," as I lovingly call them, are old technology. They are noisy. They are expensive. In most places, they are or will be illegal. SS…

Pool Professionals Wrongly Accused

Post author:Contributor
Post published:September 26, 2020
Post category:Pool News

[responsivevoice_button voice="US English Female" buttontext="Listen to Post"] Time for another article to make us laugh. We all work hard and take a lot of sh*t - we are in a…

When a New Boss Sends You Running For Cover

Post author:Contributor
Post published:September 19, 2020
Post category:Employees Pool Operator Talk News

Running? Do I have to? [responsivevoice_button voice="US English Female" buttontext="Listen to Post"] adjusting to new boss Everyone has had a boss (or several) at some point in their working life. …

Simon Says No To CyA!

Post author:Contributor
Post published:September 12, 2020
Post category:Pool News

Subject: A Topic Idea for Pool Operator Talk News The following represents the thoughts of a dedicated Pool Operator Talk News reader and do not necessarily reflect the opinions…

Talking Pools Podcast

Forget chasing chlorine headaches and battling algae wars alone. The Talking Pools Podcast is your weekly escape from pool purgatory, where 250+ years of combined pro wisdom explodes into actionable hacks, mind-blowing tips, and secrets so ancient they make Poseidon jealous.

Think of it as your weekly poolside braintrust, fueled by eight seasoned pros, each a rockstar in their own aquatic lane. Got a filtration fiasco? Chemical conundrum? Equipment enigma? No problem. We’ve got a host for that:

The Tech Titan: Unravels the mysteries of pumps, filters, and gizmos that make pools tick (without the electrical shocks).

The Chem Crusader: Your personal alchemist, whipping up potion-perfect water balance with a dash of science and a sprinkle of magic.

The Maintenance Maverick: From tile tricks to algae assassins, he’s got the lowdown on keeping your pool looking like a liquid emerald palace.

The Customer Calmer: Smooths ruffled feathers faster than a pool noodle bouquet, turning hangry homeowners into poolside pals.

But Talking Pools isn’t just about technical wizardry. It’s about camaraderie, the shared language of pool pros who’ve seen it all, from exploding filters to synchronized swimming squirrels (no, really, we had an episode!).

Every week, you’ll:

Steal game-changing secrets: Learn pro-grade hacks to make you the “Pool Whisperer” in your market

Laugh until you spit out your piña colada: These guys are as witty as they are wise, turning pool problems into poolside punchlines.

Get ahead of the curve: Stay on top of industry trends and tech before your competitors even smell the chlorine.

Feel the love (and the sunshine): Remember why you got into this business in the first place – the joy of creating backyard oases where memories are made.

So, ditch the Drano, grab your headphones, and dive into the Talking Pools Podcast. It’s your weekly dose of poolside wisdom, laughter, and community. We’ll see you on the flip side!

P.S. Subscribe now and you might just win a case of pool party essentials (floaties not included, sorry squirrels).

P.P.S. Tell your pool-loving friends – sharing knowledge is like sharing sunscreen, it protects everyone!

Text us a pool question!

In this episode, Lee and guest host Peter Legaz discuss significant changes in the pool industry, including leadership transitions within Spasa and the impact of these changes on the industry. They explore the importance of community engagement, the challenges of staff management, and personal experiences that shape their business insights. The conversation emphasizes the need for adaptability and the value of personal connections in business. The conversation delves into the pressing staffing challenges faced by the swimming pool and spa industry, emphasizing the need for effective training and development initiatives. The speakers discuss the importance of investing in staff to enhance their skills and empower them, ultimately leading to a more competent workforce. They highlight the significance of clear expectations in training and the value of allowing employees to learn from their experiences. The discussion concludes with a call to action for ongoing training opportunities to foster growth within the industry.

takeaways

Peter Legaz has been in the pool industry for 30 years.
Family personas in business can enhance customer connection.
Leadership changes can bring fresh perspectives to an industry.
The importance of unity in industry associations.
Recognition of pool service technicians as a trade is a significant achievement.
Making tough staffing decisions is essential for business health.
Hiring slowly and firing quickly can prevent prolonged issues.
Personal experiences can lead to valuable business insights.
Building personal relationships with clients is crucial.
Adaptability is key in navigating industry changes. Staffing issues have worsened since COVID-19, impacting business operations.
An academy for training new talent in the industry is needed.
Investing in staff training leads to better employee retention.
Empowering employees enhances their sense of value and contribution.
Training programs should be industry-specific to ensure relevance.
Clear expectations are essential for effective training outcomes.
Allowing employees to learn from mistakes fosters growth.
Training can significantly enhance employee skills and confidence.
Investing in staff is crucial for long-term business success.
Ongoing training opportunities are vital for industry development.