Pool Nation Podcast

04/08/2025

In Episode 259 of Pool Nation Podcast, Edgar De Jesus and John "JJ Flawless" dive deep into a critical safety topic in the pool industry: Equipotential Bonding. They’re joined by Dallas Thiesen from the Florida Swimming Pool Association (FSPA) and John Ritenour, VP of Engineering at SunSmart Engineering, to break down the findings from a landmark bonding study conducted by the Pool Industry Council.
Learn the difference between bonding and grounding, explore the two main methods of bonding (copper wire vs. copper grid), and understand why this topic matters to pool service techs, builders, and inspectors alike. The episode covers safety implications, real-world retrofit challenges, and how this research could affect upcoming National Electric Code changes.
Whether you're a pool pro servicing backyards daily or a builder navigating evolving code standards, this episode is packed with practical tips, technical insights, and industry updates that could impact your work.
👉 Access the full study: PoolBondingStudy.com

⏱️ Timestamps:

00:00–02:00 – Intro, shout-out to sponsors, and setup for the podcast

02:01–05:00 – Florida heat, location confusion, and pool pro banter

05:01–07:00 – Edgar introduces guests Dallas (FSPA) and John (SunSmart Engineering)

07:01–09:00 – What is equipotential bonding and why it matters

09:01–14:00 – Bonding vs grounding, stray voltage explained

14:01–18:00 – How bonding wires connect to pool shells and equipment

18:01–21:00 – Risks of severed bonds and retrofit challenges in older pools

21:01–25:00 – How techs can test bonding continuity in the field

25:01–28:00 – Retrofit cost shock: why grids are problematic for renovations

28:01–33:00 – Details of the FSPA bonding study setup and testing methods

33:01–35:00 – Study results: Copper grid vs copper wire performance

35:01–39:00 – Real-world impact and code implications for pool pros

39:01–42:00 – Risks of unbonded pools and shocking stories

42:01–45:00 – Safety statistics: bonding rarely fails when installed correctly

45:01–48:00 – How pool pros can get involved and push back on code changes

48:01–51:00 – Final takeaways, where to find the study, and podcast wrap-up

🙏 Thank You to Our Visionary Sponsors:
We'd like to give a huge thank you to the visionary sponsors who make this podcast possible:

SPPA – Insurance for Pool Pros

BluRay XL – The real mineral purifier

AquaStar Pool Products – Innovation in safety and efficiency

Natural Chemistry – Simplifying pool care

Raypak – Industry-leading heaters

Heritage Pool Supply – Supporting pool professionals nationwide

Hayward Pool Products – Leading pool and spa innovation

Poolside Tech – Smart automation

Pool Brain – Service business automation

US Motors – Neptune variable-speed motors for energy savings

03/08/2025

Nominations Close on Wednesday!!! Get out there and nominate your favorite pool pros and products. Time is running out.

01/08/2025

28/07/2025

Pool Nation Podcast E-258 - In this landmark episode, the Pool Nation team takes you behind the scenes of the brand-new AquaStar Studios in Ventura, California. We’re the very first to record inside this industry-changing facility—and we’re bringing you the full experience, streaming live on Instagram and Restream for the first time ever! Join Edgar, John, and Zac as they tour the state-of-the-art studio, test out its massive interactive screen, and chat with Todd and the AquaStar crew about why content and education are transforming the pool industry.
Whether you’re a pool pro, a business owner, or just a fan of next-level tech and team culture, this episode is packed with laughs, insider stories, and powerful takeaways on innovation, collaboration, and why investing in the pool community matters now more than ever.
Timelines & Highlights:

[00:00:00] – Intro & Welcome:Meet the crew as they kick off at AquaStar’s stunning new studio in Ventura, sharing first impressions and setting the vibe for a special live-streamed episode.

[00:03:00] – Pool Nation On the Road:Travel stories, Airbnb mishaps, and the lengths Edgar will go for a cup of coffee.

[00:06:00] – Studio Reveal & First Impressions:Blindfolded arrivals, team reactions, and the story behind building a one-of-a-kind industry studio.

[00:13:00] – Pool Nation Conference Sneak Peek:Upcoming events, including the Women’s Summit, Pool Pro Challenge, and business training track breakdown.

[00:23:00] – Why Build a Studio? Vision & ROI:Todd shares the inside story on what inspired AquaStar to invest big in a content studio, the changing needs of pool pros, and the challenge of justifying ROI in education and media.

[00:31:00] – Building It Right: Design, Details, & Team Culture:Hear how the AquaStar team took on the build, the philosophy of “everything makes a difference,” and how internal talent and attention to detail brought the vision to life.

[00:40:00] – The Massive Interactive Wall Demo:Live demo of the 10x20ft high-res screen—see what it can do, why it matters for training, and the plans for future immersive content.

[00:47:00] – Community, Team, and Social Media:The importance of company culture, embracing social media, and making pool pros feel like family—not just customers.

[01:03:00] – Growth & Team Expansion:How AquaStar built its rep team from scratch, what’s next, and why Mandy deserves a spotlight!

[01:10:00] – Live Audience Q&A & Fun:Live shoutouts, Brian’s birthday, and the legendary “Omar on a horse” photo goes up on the big screen.

[01:17:00] – Final Thoughts & Takeaways:Gratitude, future vision, and why this launch is just the beginning for both AquaStar and Pool Nation.

26/07/2025

21/07/2025

Episode 257 of the Pool Nation Podcast. This week on the Pool Nation Podcast, we bring you a Best Of episode packed with the most inspiring, entertaining, and educational moments from our recent interviews with pool pros, innovators, and industry leaders. From entrepreneurial journeys and product launches to wild industry stories and lessons on overcoming adversity, this episode is your all-access pass to the people, products, and personalities shaping the pool industry.
Listen in for:

Entrepreneurial stories from the trenches

Industry-changing product launches

Candid conversations about success, setbacks, and comebacks

Audience questions answered, and more!

Whether you’re a pool technician, business owner, or just love a good story, you won’t want to miss this one!

⏱️ Timestamps / Episode Highlights
[00:00] Welcome & Show IntroKicking off with the Pool Nation crew: Edgar De Jesus, John “JJ Flawless,” and Zach “The Pool Boy” Nicholas. What’s in store on this special best-of episode.
[04:12] Family, Fatherhood & Pool Pro LifeHilarious parenting confessions, colicky baby survival tips, and the reality of working late-night podcasts at home.
[12:08] Guest: Chris Galvan of Blu-Ray XLChris shares his journey from waterpark pool pro to creating Blu-Ray XL, and the story behind his breakthrough mineral-based water treatment product.
[23:45] Facing Adversity: Lawsuits, the EPA, and Not Giving UpChris details the intense legal and regulatory battles that nearly ended his business—and how perseverance, family, and belief in his product kept him going.
[36:11] Announcement: Pool Nation Awards NominationsCelebrate excellence! Nominate your favorite pool pros, trainers, sales reps, and game-changing products at PoolNationAwards.com. Nominations close August 6th!
[38:02] Pool Nation Conference PromoThe only business-focused conference in the pool industry returns Oct 24-25 at the PSP Expo, Las Vegas. Hands-on business, technical, and financial training—plus live demos and networking. Register at PoolNation.com.
[39:37] Guest: Josh Sherwood of Sherwood’s OutdoorsJosh’s incredible story: from rodeo to landscaping to pool building—and giving away a full backyard and pool to a deserving family.
[47:15] Learning by Failing: Soldering Disaster & The Value of ResilienceJosh recalls his first big mistake in landscaping, what went wrong, and how learning from failure (instead of quitting) changed his business.
[52:30] Guest: Todd Pierre & Jamie Novak, AquaStar Pool ProductsMeet the people behind some of the industry’s most innovative new products and hear about their accidental (but life-changing) entry into the pool business.
[01:06:22] Why Disruption Matters: The Pipeline Filter StoryA candid look at what it takes to innovate in an industry that can sometimes resist change.
[01:12:08] Guest: Mike Farley, Million Dollar Pool Design ChallengeMike shares what it’s like designing the “crazy” pools of Texas, tackling difficult projects, and the evolution of the backyard resort trend.
[01:25:10] From Failure to Fame: Social Media, Swim-Up Bars & Pool Industry TrendsHow viral pool designs are influencing backyard builds nationwide.
[01:33:30] Guest: Paul Sim, Ariel (Solar Skimming Robot)From firefighting equipment to robotic pool cleaners—Paul’s journey into pool tech, product innovation, and surviving the challenges of manufacturing.
[01:45:20] The Power of Community: Listener Shoutouts & Live Q&AEdgar, John, and Zach answer audience questions, share stories, and highlight the supportive Pool Nation community.
[01:52:41] Pool Nation Announcements & ClosingConference details, shoutouts, and how to connect with the Pool Nation team for future episodes and live events.
📱 How to Listen:

Listen live every Friday at 9am PST / 11am CST / 12pm EST

On all major podcast platforms, PoolNation.com, and Pool Nation Podcast

Follow on Instagram and Facebook

14/07/2025

Episode 256 of the Pool Nation Podcast. Ready to build a pool service business that doesn’t just keep pools blue, but also pays you what you’re worth? This week, Edgar De Jesus, John “JJ Flawless,” and Zac “the Pool Boy” Nicholas get real about what it actually takes to succeed—and stay profitable—in the pool industry.
Join us for a candid, behind-the-scenes roundtable as we break down the Pool Nation Roadmap to Profitability, from rookie mistakes to seasoned strategies.You’ll hear how most pool pros start out obsessed with water chemistry and “splash and dash” service, only to realize—sometimes after years of burnout and struggle—that real success requires learning the business side. The team shares their personal journeys: seven-day workweeks, long hours, undercharging, and near-burnout, plus the exact turning points that helped them finally build thriving, profitable companies.
What you’ll learn in this episode:

Why most pool pros focus on cleaning and chemistry first, but ignore business basics

The actual progression from service to repairs—and why so many get stuck

The hidden dangers of chasing account numbers instead of profit

Real talk on burnout: what it feels like, and how to pivot before it’s too late

Why knowing your numbers—from cost per pool to true take-home pay—changes everything

The “Profit Crossroads:” that critical moment every owner faces (and how to survive it)

How top pool companies achieve more with fewer pools and fewer headaches

Why quality of service—and quality of customers—beats quantity every time

How a shift in mindset, confidence, and education leads to a more enjoyable, sustainable business

Exclusive preview: Upcoming Pool Nation Boot Camps, Women’s Summit, and the business-focused Pool Nation Conference at the PSP Expo

[00:00:00] — Welcome & July 4th stories: The team shares family time, fireworks, and what it’s like juggling business during the summer rush.[00:03:00] — Deepfakes, AI, and Pool Myths: How fake news (and viral pool “hacks”) are impacting the industry, and why learning to separate fact from fiction matters for pool pros.[00:08:00] — Event Rundown: Key dates and reasons not to miss the hands-on Boot Camp, Pool Nation Awards nominations, Women’s Summit, $10K Pool Pro Challenge, and the only business-focused conference in the industry.[00:16:00] — Why Most Pool Pros Start with Service: Edgar and Zac explain the overwhelming pull toward water chemistry and service basics, and why business training often comes last.[00:23:00] — From Cleaner to Water Manager: John and Zac talk about changing the customer perception from “pool boy” to water management expert, and why it’s crucial for long-term success.[00:26:00] — Graduating to Repairs: The team gets honest about the messy, expensive, and sometimes humbling transition into equipment repairs—and how most pros learn the hard way.[00:31:00] — Where Most Pros Go Wrong: The dangers of underpricing, not paying yourself first, and letting cash flow dictate your business.[00:34:00] — Burnout & The Profit Crossroads: Candid stories of working seven days a week, living on cash flow, and the exact moment each host realized they needed to change.[00:38:00] — How to Build a Profitable Company: Why focusing on fewer, better accounts (and charging what you’re worth) creates freedom, growth, and a healthier work-life balance.[00:49:00] — Quality Over Quantity: A look at how great customers, higher service standards, and business systems can supercharge your income—and enjoyment—without scaling up your headaches.[00:52:00] — What’s Next? A sneak peek at the upcoming “Profit Killers” episode, plus the basic math every pool pro should know to calculate cost of service and profit margin.
Actionable Takeaways:

Start with your numbers: Knowing your true cost per pool and setting profit targets is the fastest way to build a business that pays you back.

Don’t chase every account: Not all growth is good growth—sometimes less is more.

Profit is freedom: When you’re profitable, you can take time off, invest in your team, and actually enjoy your business.

Mindset matters: The right education and support turns a “pool boy” into a respected business owner.

Don’t forget:👉 Register for upcoming Pool Nation Boot Camps and the only business-focused Pool Nation Conference at poolnation.com👉 Nominate your favorite pool pros, trainers, and products at poolnationawards.com (nominations close August 6!)👉 Download the Pool Man University app for exclusive business and finance courses

10/07/2025

We are having a power outage. We will be back next week.

08/07/2025

Heritage is hosting a Free Hands-on Boot Camp in Van Nuys PEP. We have 9 spots left. Go and register today. This one is Free!!!!

07/07/2025

From Tragedy to Triumph: Jay Laughrey’s Story

This week on the Pool Nation Podcast, Jay Laughrey shares how he turned heartbreak into purpose, found support through IPSSA, and built a thriving pool service business that allows him to help others and honor his brothers legacy. Don’t miss his inspiring journey, real talk on overcoming self-doubt, and the power of community in our industry. 🚀💧

👉 Tap the link in bio to listen!

07/07/2025

In this heartfelt and powerful episode #255 of the Pool Nation Podcast, hosts Edgar De Jesus, John "JJ Flawless," and Zac "The Pool Boy" Nicholas welcome Jay Laughrey, an inspiring figure in the pool industry. Jay opens up about his incredible journey, sharing how his brother Jeff's mentorship shaped him, the devastating loss he faced, and how he turned tragedy into purpose, becoming a beacon of positivity and leadership.
Jay's story is a testament to the power of resilience, mentorship, and community within the pool industry, offering valuable lessons on mental health awareness, communication, and business leadership. This conversation is emotional, impactful, and filled with practical insights for both new and veteran pool professionals.
Episode Highlights & Timestamps:

0:00 - Intro & Welcome: Meet your hosts and special guest, Jay Laughrey.

10:25 - Jay’s Early Life: From auto shop dreams to computer networking.

18:40 - Board Shorts & Checks: How Jay’s brother Jeff entered the pool industry.

27:30 - Taking the Plunge: Jay’s first experiences and anxieties as a new pool professional.

38:55 - Tragedy Strikes: Jay shares the painful story of losing his brother to su***de and how it reshaped his life.

55:50 - Grieving and Healing: Jay discusses the ongoing journey of grief, acceptance, and how he found purpose.

1:05:15 - Honoring Jeff’s Legacy: How Jay continues his brother's passion for helping others in the industry.

1:15:20 - Embracing Leadership: Jay’s unexpected journey into leadership with IPSA.

1:25:40 - Advice for New Pool Pros: Communication tips and taking on challenges confidently.

1:35:00 - Final Thoughts & Reflections: The hosts share heartfelt takeaways and gratitude.

Special Thanks to Our Sponsors: SPPA, Blu-Ray XL, Aquastar Pool Products, Natural Chemistry, Raypak, Heritage Pool Supply, Hayward Pool Products, Poolside Tech, Pool Brain, and Nidec
Mental Health Resource: If you or someone you know is struggling with thoughts of su***de, please call the National Su***de Prevention Lifeline by dialing 988.