The Pool Guy Podcast Show

On today’s episode, I’m joined by James Smith , Registered Nurse, Certified Pool Operator, and the mind behind the Pool Pro Training Course at Homestead Pool Services . James brings a unique background—combining years of clinical nursing with hands-on pool care—to teach pros how to truly understand water chemistry. We talk about why so many pool techs struggle with pH, alkalinity, LSI, and borates...

This one’s just for fun! Terry Arko and I swap some of the funniest pool service complaints we’ve ever heard, along with a few downright scary horror stories from the field. From the outrageous requests to the unbelievable situations we’ve walked into, you’ll laugh, shake your head, and maybe even feel better about your own service calls. Send us Fan Mail Support the Pool Guy Podcast Show Sponsors...

Terry Arko on Biofilm In this episode, Terry Arko helps me unpack the mystery of biofilm: what it is, where it hides, and why it makes pool care such a challenge. I share some real-world stories about how biofilm has popped up in pools I service and the problems it causes—from cloudy water to sanitizer lock-up. If you’ve ever felt like your chlorine just isn’t working, biofilm might be the culprit...

Terry Arko on LSI Water Balancing in High CYA Pools and Saltwater Pools Today, I dig into one of the trickiest balancing acts we face: keeping the LSI in range when dealing with high CYA levels and saltwater systems. Terry Arko joins me to explain why these pools behave differently, what adjustments we need to make, and how to keep everything in balance without going crazy. This one’s a must-liste...

Terry Arko on why the LSI is different from Pool Water Safety In this episode, I sit down with Terry Arko to clear up a common mix-up: the Langelier Saturation Index (LSI) versus pool water safety. LSI is all about protecting the pool surface and keeping the structure healthy, while water chemistry balance for safety is all about protecting swimmers. I share how understanding both helps me care fo...

The wind doesn’t just blow — it blows everything into your pools . I just had one of those brutal wind events that turned half my route into green soup overnight. In this episode, I’ll walk you through my clean-up plan after a windy day, what I do before the storm hits, and how I talk to customers when their pools are trashed. Whether it’s leaves, palm droppings, or just desert dust, I’ve got stra...

Let’s be real — this job is hard on the body. In this episode, I’m talking about the injuries I’ve faced over the years running a pool route — from pulled backs to tweaked shoulders — and what I’ve learned about working smarter. I’ll share my daily habits, tool swaps, and simple adjustments that’ve helped me stay in the game without wrecking my body. If you’ve ever limped home after a long route,...

In this episode, I'm diving into the questions you left me on YouTube. From clogged impellers and pumps that won’t prime to figuring out if your Truclear salt cell is the right size and whether aftermarket cleaner parts are worth it—I’m giving you straight answers, pro tips, and a few things most pool pros don’t talk about. If you’ve got a pool problem, chances are I’ve answered it today!  Se...

I’m diving into a showdown I’ve been asked about a lot lately — VacDaddy vs. The Bottom Feeder . If you're a pool pro, you know how much time and energy your vacuum can save… or waste. I’ve used both of these power vacuums in the field, and I’ll break down what I like, what frustrates me, and which one makes more sense depending on your route and budget. Whether you're dealing with leave...

Ever look at your pool and wonder how that much dirt even got in there? I do too—and in this episode, I break down the smartest, fastest, and most effective ways to get that junk out and get your pool looking crystal clear again. I share exactly what I do, what tools I use (and avoid), and why some of the newest tech just doesn’t cut it when it comes to heavy debris. Whether you're a pool pro...

Today, I talk with Bob Lowry about a common and frustrating problem: metal staining in swimming pools. Whether it’s iron, copper, or manganese, stains can make even the cleanest pool look neglected. Bob breaks down where these metals come from, how to identify the stains, and—most importantly—how to treat and prevent them. Send us Fan Mail Support the Pool Guy Podcast Show Sponsors!  HASA&nbs...

In this episode, I talk with Bob Lowry about something many pool owners and pros overlook: how certain pool products—like metal sequestrants—can destroy your chlorine level. Bob explains how these common additives, often used to treat stains or metal issues, can rapidly lower or eliminate free chlorine. We dig into how to identify these products, when it’s okay to use them, and what to do to maint...

Bob Lowry is back to answer three smart—and super common—pool care questions: What should you do after a pool party? How do you adjust carbonate alkalinity when CYA is extremely high? And how can you safely raise very low pH levels without overshooting? These are practical, real-world scenarios, and Bob gives clear, actionable answers. Send us Fan Mail Support the Pool Guy Podcast Show Sponsors!&n...

Bob Lowry joins me to explain why high cyanuric acid (CYA) isn’t just a small issue—it’s a major one. We get into the science of how CYA affects chlorine performance, why it causes algae and sanitizer failure, and what you can actually do about it. If you’ve ever heard “high CYA” tossed around and didn’t get the fuss, this is the episode you need. Send us Fan Mail Support the Pool Guy Podcast Show...

In this episode, I sit down with Bob Lowry to talk about something so basic, yet so commonly misunderstood: chemical dosing. It all starts with knowing your pool’s volume—because if you don’t know how much water you're treating, you're just guessing. Bob shares his tips, tricks, and why accurate math is critical for safe, effective pool care. Send us Fan Mail Support the Pool Guy Podcast...

In today’s episode, I’m diving into a topic every pool pro faces sooner or later — collecting past-due money. We’ve all had that one client who ghosts us when it’s time to pay up. I’ll share the systems I’ve put in place to stay ahead of overdue invoices, tips on how to communicate professionally (without sounding desperate), and ways to prevent getting stiffed in the first place. From clear billi...

Let’s settle the media war! In this episode, I compare diatomaceous earth, perlite, and cellulose — the three big names in DE filter alternatives. I cover the pros, cons, costs, and filtration power of each, plus when it might make sense to mix or switch. If you use a DE filter, this is a must-listen. Send us Fan Mail Support the Pool Guy Podcast Show Sponsors!  HASA  https://bit.ly/HASA...

In this episode, I dive into a common question I get from pool pros: are all cartridge filter replacements created equal? Spoiler alert — they’re not. I break down the quality differences, filtration capacity, and what makes some cartridges last longer (or fail faster). If you’ve ever wondered whether OEM really matters, this one’s for you. Send us Fan Mail Support the Pool Guy Podcast Show Sponso...

In this episode, I’m talking about a battle we’ve all faced at some point: pool pros vs. landscapers and gardeners . Whether it’s broken vacuum lines, blown leaves into a freshly cleaned pool, or just bad timing on service days, I’ve seen it all. I’ll share stories, some hard-earned lessons, and ways you can set boundaries and communicate better with the other folks working the same properties. Be...

In this episode, I’m talking about a battle we’ve all faced at some point: pool pros vs. landscapers and gardeners . Whether it’s broken vacuum lines, blown leaves into a freshly cleaned pool, or just bad timing on service days, I’ve seen it all. I’ll share stories, some hard-earned lessons, and ways you can set boundaries and communicate better with the other folks working the same properties. Be...

I’ve driven everything from compact trucks to full-size trucks in my pool route—and I’ve got thoughts. In this episode, I dig into what really matters when choosing your service vehicle: fuel economy, cargo space, reliability, branding, and comfort. Whether you're team Maverick, F-150, or even minivan curious, I’ve got you covered. Send us Fan Mail Support the Pool Guy Podcast Show Sponsors!&...

I’ve been watching the explosion of cordless pool robots lately—and let me tell you, this isn’t just a trend, it’s a shift. In this episode, I break down what’s driving the cordless craze, the pros and cons versus traditional cleaners, and which models are actually worth your money. If you're wondering whether now’s the time to go cordless, this one's for you.  Send us Fan Mail Support t...

Ever let a client slide on payment… just once? Or kept doing that one extra thing “just to be nice”? I’ve been there—and paid the price. In this episode, I talk about how being too nice on your pool route can cost you time, money, and your sanity. I’ll share how to set boundaries without being a jerk, and why saying “no” can be the most professional thing you do. Send us Fan Mail Support the Pool...

Let’s get real—every pool pro has found something floating that made them question their life choices. In this episode, I dive into what to do when you find a dead raccoon, bird, frog, or worse in a client’s pool. From safety protocols to dealing with squeamish homeowners, I cover how to handle it professionally—and safely—without losing your lunch. Send us Fan Mail Support the Pool Guy Podcast Sh...

Ever chase down a mysterious pool leak that turned out to be something totally unexpected? Yeah, me too. In this episode, I’ll walk you through the different types of leaks I’ve encountered—plumbing, shell, equipment—and how I’ve learned to rule things out fast. I’ll also share the tools I trust, the common myths that waste your time, and why sometimes, it’s not a leak at all. Send us Fan Mail Sup...