Pool Professionals Podcast

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 va...

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 s...

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 i...

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 Gille...

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 build...

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 alter...

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.

Brian Van Bower and David Duensing dive into the art and science of designing natural-looking waterfalls and water features for swimming pools, emphasizing the critical role of natural rock, meticulous attention to detail, and sound water management. They shared insights into sourcing materials, constructing waterfalls, and optimizing water flow.

Brian Van Bower sits down with Scott Frost, Executive Vice President of Sales and Service at Fluidra North America, to discuss the legacy of Vance Gillette and the launch of the new Vance Gillette Scholarship program. The scholarship honors Vance's impact on the pool industry and his commitment to education. This scholarship awards four PHTA members $2,500 each to use towards GENESIS® education.

Ray Corral, Founder & CEO of Masaicist Inc., shares insights into the pros and cons of glass tile pools. He highlights their vibrant colors, smooth texture, and ability to enhance a backyard vision when installed correctly. However, he notes the higher cost and the need for skilled installers, a challenge in the U.S. due to limited education in tile installation. Ray introduces Masaicist's innovat...

Brian Van Bower chats with Ryan Pieszchala, owner of Quest Pools, about the value of business management software in the pool industry. Ryan highlights how software can streamline operations, centralize data, and improve communication, ensuring continuity even during staff changes. They discuss key considerations for adopting software, including company size, cost-benefit analysis, and the importa...

John Kenyon, Sales Manager at Gib-San Pools, shares his approach to the initial client interaction. He emphasizes the importance of qualifying potential clients through thoughtful questions, such as their previous pool ownership experience and budget expectations. Kenyon highlights the value of building rapport, listening carefully to client preferences, and addressing their top concerns: cost, ti...

In this episode, Brad Parker discusses the growing importance of sustainability in the pool industry, particularly in terms of energy efficiency and water conservation. He highlights that consumers are increasingly interested in sustainable solutions, especially when linked to cost savings. Parker emphasizes that pool professionals must clearly communicate the benefits of sustainable products, whi...

Rowdy Gaines, Olympic Gold Medalist and VP of Partnerships and Development, discusses the critical need for accessible swimming lessons, highlighting that drowning is the leading cause of accidental death for children aged 1-4. He notes that swimming lessons reduce drowning risk by 88%. With drowning rates at an all-time high in 2024, often due to parental distractions, Gaines stresses the importa...

GENESIS Engineering Faculty Chair, Terry Brannon, P.E. covers the essentials of concrete curing for pools. He stresses the importance of timing and proper curing methods, such as using curing blankets or sprinklers, to retain water and strengthen the concrete. Brannon also highlights common industry mistakes, like delayed curing and using paraffin-based products, and shares tips to ensure long-las...

  This episode offers expert guidance on capturing stunning pool photography for professional projects. Key insights include the importance of meticulous preparation, such as ensuring the pool area is spotless and ready for the shoot. The episode also discusses the critical role of angles and reflections in capturing the perfect shot. 

Kevin Misley, President of Mystic Pools, offers expert advice on pool plumbing and equipment installation, focusing on optimizing system efficiency and durability. He emphasizes using high-quality fittings, proper glue application for underground connections, and heat bending pipes for better routing. Misley also highlights the importance of careful equipment layout for accessibility, thorough pre...

Dominick Mondi, Executive Director of NESPA, discusses his path to association management and NESPA's 63-year legacy of industry success through volunteerism, education, and government affairs. He highlights the crucial role of certification and licensing in ensuring professionalism and consumer safety. Mondi points out labor management as a key challenge, stressing the need to attract, train, and...

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...

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 int...

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 introdu...

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. Farl...

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 landsca...