In Episode 287 of Pool Nation Podcast is Part 2 of this powerful conversation, Edgar , John “JJ Flawless,” and Zac “The Pool Boy” Nicholas break down the real difference between information and actual training—and why most pool professionals aren’t truly prepared when they walk into a backyard. This episode dives deep into training readiness, skill gaps, and why mistakes keep happening at customer pools instead of in controlled learning environments. If you’ve ever felt confident in a class but froze when things went sideways in the field, this episode explains exactly why—and how to fix it. You’ll hear real-world stories from the field, honest conversations about YouTube education, hands-on training, repetition, and why confidence only comes from practice, not just knowledge. The team also explains how seasonality, pressure, and poor training structures hold pool businesses back—and what owners must do differently moving forward. This episode is a must-listen for: Pool service techs Repair technicians Business owners Managers training teams Anyone serious about growing skills, confidence, and profitability in the pool industry If you want to stop learning the hard way in customers’ backyards and start building real readiness, this episode is for you. ⏱️ Episode Timestamps 00:00 – Welcome to the Pool Nation Podcast01:00 – Why Part 2 matters: Training vs information03:00 – YouTube education: Helpful or harmful?07:00 – Why information feels like progress (but isn’t)10:00 – The real danger of learning under pressure15:00 – Why mistakes show up at customer pools first19:00 – Repetition, muscle memory, and real confidence23:00 – Hands-on training vs classroom learning28:00 – Why “figuring it out in the field” became normalized33:00 – Seasonality and why training gets pushed aside37:00 – How skill gaps show up operationally, emotionally, and financially42:00 – Why owners stop training themselves47:00 – What effective training actually looks like52:00 – How to choose the right education for your team58:00 – Final thoughts: Raising the standard in pool education 🤝 Thank You to Our Visionary Partners A huge thank you to our Pool Nation Visionary Partners who make this podcast possible: The SPPA BlueRay XL AquaStar Pool Products Natural Chemistry Raypak Heritage Pool Supply Hayward Pool Products PoolSide Tech Pool Brain Nidec / U.S. Motors Encore Filtration – Welcome to the Pool Nation family Your continued support helps elevate education, professionalism, and profitability across the pool industry.

In episode 286 of the Pool Nation Podcast, Edgar De Jesus is joined by co-hosts John “JJ Flawless” and Zac “The Pool Boy” Nicholas for a powerful, honest conversation about training, readiness, and real-world skill development in the pool industry. With trade show season, boot camps, and certifications ramping up, the guys break down the difference between consuming information and being truly prepared to execute in the field. They explore why watching videos and attending classes feels productive—but often falls short when real-life variables, customers, and safety risks enter the picture. You’ll hear why: Information alone doesn’t equal competence Pools are one of the most challenging environments to learn in Repetition, practice, and hands-on training matter more than ever “Figuring it out on the fly” has been normalized—and why that’s a problem The right education now leads to fewer mistakes, more confidence, and more time with your family later This episode is a must-listen for pool service techs, repair techs, builders, retailers, and business owners who want to stop guessing, sharpen their skills, and approach training with the right mindset in 2026. ⏱️ Episode Timestamps (Chapters) 00:00 – Welcome to the Pool Nation Podcast01:00 – Why this conversation about training matters right now03:30 – Kicking off 2026 & returning to show season08:00 – Industry shout-outs & community updates10:00 – Trade shows, boot camps & upcoming Pool Nation events16:30 – Upskilling vs. reskilling: what pool pros actually need18:30 – Information vs. training: why most education doesn’t stick22:30 – Why confidence disappears in the field27:00 – YouTube learning vs. real-world execution31:30 – Why repetition and practice are missing in education36:30 – Sponsor break41:00 – Why pools are one of the hardest environments to learn in47:00 – Working alone in backyards & pressure from homeowners52:30 – The danger of “figuring it out on the fly”58:30 – How the industry must evolve training standards01:06:00 – Final thoughts: education now = freedom later01:19:00 – Closing & where to see Pool Nation next   Sponsors (Thank You) Big thank you to our sponsors for supporting Pool Pros and helping us keep the education and conversations rolling: SPPA• Blu-ray XL• AquaStar Pool Products• Natural Chemistry• Raypak• Heritage Pool Supply• Hayward Pool Products• Poolside Tech• US Motors / Nidec Also, thank you to Pool Invoice and PoolManUniversity.com for supporting pool industry training and business systems.

In episode 285 of the Pool Nation Podcast, Edgar De Jesús sits down with leadership expert Leanne De Jesús for an in-depth conversation on how pool business owners, service techs, retailers, and builders can grow without burning out, falling behind, or constantly starting over. What is upskilling?Upskilling means improving and expanding the skills you already use in your role — not changing careers, but getting better, smarter, and more effective at what you’re already doing. In the pool industry, upskilling can look like: Developing leadership and people-management skills Improving pricing, financial clarity, and decision-making Learning new equipment, technology, and automation Building sales and customer communication skills Training your team so the business doesn’t rely only on you Reskilling, on the other hand, is learning an entirely new role or function — like moving from service into building, retail, or management. Throughout this episode, Edgar and Leanne break down why most frustration, burnout, and leadership struggles aren’t people problems — they’re skill gaps. They also explain why access to information alone doesn’t create better leaders, and how structure, mentorship, and intentional learning are what actually drive growth. Whether you’re a one-truck operator or scaling a multi-location business, this conversation will help you: Understand when to upskill vs when to reskill Recognize early signs of burnout and stagnation Build stronger leaders and more accountable teams Create growth without chaos Shift from operator thinking to owner thinking This episode isn’t about working harder — it’s about thinking differently so your business can grow with clarity and control. ⏱️ Episode Timestamps 00:00 – Welcome to the Pool Nation Podcast01:05 – Why upskilling and reskilling matter right now03:00 – Pool Nation events, shows, and upcoming education06:10 – What upskilling really looks like in real life09:45 – AI, technology, and staying relevant13:20 – How pool pros upskill without realizing it16:10 – The difference between upskilling and reskilling18:50 – When you should reskill vs improve your current skills21:40 – Why people think they need to quit when they really need new skills25:10 – Learning, testing, applying, and sharing knowledge30:00 – Burnout, overwhelm, and hidden skill gaps33:10 – Leadership problems vs skill problems37:20 – Why information alone doesn’t create better leaders40:50 – Time, structure, and intentional learning44:30 – Sponsor break46:00 – Upskilling business owners for growth and scale50:30 – Hiring for skill vs hiring for personality55:10 – Upskilling pool techs: sales, safety, and trust1:01:40 – Retail teams, product knowledge, and relationships1:07:30 – Why training fails without structure1:12:00 – Train-the-trainer mindset and leadership confidence1:17:40 – Why guided learning and mentorship matter1:21:10 – The most important mindset shift: growth mindset1:26:30 – Final thoughts and takeaways1:30:00 – Closing remarks and where to find Pool Nation 🤝 Thank You to Our Sponsors A huge thank you to our visionary partners who make Pool Nation education possible: SPPA –  US Motors (Nidec) –  Blu-Ray XL –  AquaStar Pool Products –  Natural Chemistry –  Raypak – Hayward Pool Products –  Heritage Pool Supply Your support helps us continue to educate, elevate, and strengthen the pool industry.

In episode 284 of the Pool Nation Podcast, we sit down with Rocco Russo, the 2025 Pool Nation Trainer of the Year, to break down what it really takes to become an elite pool professional. Rocco shares his journey from the HVAC and mechanical trades into the pool industry, how early failures shaped his career, and why confidence, training, and preparation are the true differentiators between average techs and top performers. This is not just a conversation about equipment — it’s about mindset, leadership, and professionalism in the pool service and repair industry. We dig deep into: Why most pool techs undervalue themselves How proper training builds confidence and profitability The parallels between HVAC, mechanical systems, and modern pool equipment Why calling tech support is a strength — not a weakness How trainers and manufacturers can elevate the entire industry together Whether you’re a new pool tech, a seasoned repair pro, or a business owner trying to level up your team, this episode delivers insight you can apply immediately. 👉 If you care about doing the job right, charging what you’re worth, and building a sustainable pool business, this is a must-listen episode. ⏱️ Episode Timestamps 00:00 – Welcome to the Pool Nation Podcast02:00 – Introducing 2025 Trainer of the Year, Rocco Russo06:30 – Rocco’s early career in HVAC & mechanical systems14:45 – First pool heater failure & lessons learned the hard way22:30 – Why pool techs need confidence, not just tools32:00 – Training vs. guessing in the field44:15 – Manufacturer support & why tech support matters55:30 – Selling value, not price1:09:00 – What separates average techs from elite professionals1:25:00 – Rocco’s transition into training & industry impact1:38:00 – Winning Trainer of the Year & final reflections1:55:00 – Final thoughts on leadership, education, and growth 🤝 Thank You to Our Visionary Partners This episode is brought to you by our Pool Nation Visionary Sponsors, who continue to support education, training, and growth in the pool industry: SPPA (Swimming Pool Pro Alliance) Blu-Ray XL AquaStar Pool Products Natural Chemistry Raypak Heritage Pool Supply Hayward Pool Products PoolSide Tech Pool Brain Nidec / U.S. Motors We appreciate your continued commitment to elevating pool professionals across the country.

Pool Nation Podcast Episode 283, a special “best of” style episode packed with real conversations, pool industry insights, and business lessons for pool service, repair, and retail pros. Edgar, John “JJ Flawless,” and Zac “the Pool Boy” kick things off with a quick reset for the new year, including Edgar’s recap from the BioGuard (BioLab) retailer conference in Tulum, Mexico, plus what Pool Pros should focus on as the season ramps up. From there, this compilation jumps into some of the most talked-about topics in the industry: marketing and branding, algae prevention and green pool recovery, a full backyard and pool giveaway, and the legal side of hiring and HR that most pool companies struggle to navigate. The episode wraps with a fun behind-the-scenes conversation with Pool Pro Magazine about creativity, industry trends, and what it takes to produce standout content in the pool world. If you want a single episode that covers pool business growth, pool marketing, algae troubleshooting, hiring compliance, and industry community, this one delivers. Chapter Timestamps 00:00:00 Welcome to Pool Nation + January reset, season ramp-up, and BioGuard conference recap in Tulum 00:05:00 Crystal Rael (SMP + Ultra Lift): marketing, branding foundations, and leading two companies 00:16:00 Alicia Stephens: why algae is worse this year, chlorine costs, prevention strategy, and treatment approaches 00:33:00 Sponsor break 00:43:00 Josh Sherwood: his story in business and the backyard + pool giveaway (how nominations work) 00:53:00 Leanne: HR and the legal side of hiring, compliance resources, and how to protect your business decisions 01:03:00 Sponsor break 01:07:00 Megan Kendrick (Pool Pro Magazine): behind-the-scenes content creation, industry trends, and the shoot stories 01:14:40 Closing message + where to find Pool Nation, Pool Invoice, and Pool Man University Sponsors (Thank You) Big thank you to our sponsors for supporting Pool Pros and helping us keep the education and conversations rolling: SPPA• Blu-ray XL• AquaStar Pool Products• Natural Chemistry• Raypak• Heritage Pool Supply• Hayward Pool Products• Poolside Tech• US Motors / Nidec Also, thank you to Pool Invoice and PoolManUniversity.com for supporting pool industry training and business systems.

In Episode 282 of the Pool Nation Podcast, Edgar breaks down why financial clarity—not activity—is what actually creates control in your pool business. If you’ve ever felt stressed, overwhelmed, or unsure why your business feels heavy even when it’s growing, this episode will hit home. Edgar explains the illusion of control that many pool pros live in and walks through the three numbers every pool business owner must know to build a stable, profitable operation: Average rate per pool• Cost per pool• Net margin This episode is designed specifically for January, when pool businesses finally have breathing room to slow down, think clearly, and make intentional decisions before the busy season hits. Edgar shares real-world lessons from his own journey—from running routes himself to scaling a business—and explains why avoiding your numbers doesn’t eliminate problems, it only delays them. If you’re serious about building a pool business that pays you, protects you, and doesn’t rely on constant hustle to survive, this episode will help you reset how you think about money, growth, and leadership in 2026. 🎯 This episode is for:• Pool service business owners• Pool repair professionals• One-man operations and growing teams• Anyone feeling busy but financially uncertain ⏱️ Episode Timestamps 00:00 – Welcome to the Pool Nation Podcast01:00 – Why being busy doesn’t mean your business is healthy05:00 – The illusion of control in pool businesses08:00 – Why clarity creates control (and reduces stress)12:00 – Guessing vs knowing your numbers18:00 – The three numbers that actually matter24:00 – Average rate per pool: growth vs dilution30:00 – Cost per pool and emotional pricing decisions35:00 – Net margin: the difference between a business and a risky job40:00 – Why not paying yourself is a warning sign44:00 – What happens when you avoid your numbers52:00 – How uncertainty creates burnout58:00 – Why January is the most important month for clarity1:05:00 – Using slow season to reset before peak season1:11:00 – Final thoughts: clarity over comfort1:13:00 – Closing remarks and 2026 outlook 🤝 Thank You to Our Sponsors A huge thank you to the visionary partners who make the Pool Nation Podcast possible: SPPA• Blu-ray XL• AquaStar Pool Products• Natural Chemistry• Raypak• Heritage Pool Supply• Hayward Pool Products• Poolside Tech• US Motors / Nidec Your continued support helps Pool Nation deliver real-world education, business clarity, and leadership insights to pool pros across the industry.

In Episode 281 of the Pool Nation Podcast, Edgar De Jesus dives into a topic most pool business owners aren’t prepared for - what really happens after you raise your prices. You’ve done the hard part. You ran the numbers. You sent the email. You raised your rates.But then comes the silence… the second guessing… and the fear. This episode focuses on the first 90 days after a price increase, breaking down the emotional, financial, and leadership shifts pool pros experience during this critical window. Edgar explains why post-increase anxiety is normal, how to avoid self-sabotage, and how understanding your true cost per pool transforms pricing from an emotional decision into a leadership strategy. You’ll learn why losing a few customers isn’t failure, how margin creates stability (not just profit), and how aligned pricing leads to calmer leadership, better customers, and a stronger business long-term. If you’re a pool service owner, repair pro, or business operator who wants to raise prices with confidence and keep control of your business after you do - this episode is a must-listen. 🎧 Topics include: The psychology of pricing after you hit “send” Why silence after a rate increase feels dangerous (but isn’t) The difference between emotional vs intentional pricing Understanding true cost per pool and margin protection Why fewer pools can actually mean more profit How pricing affects leadership, stress, and customer retention What to do with new margin (and what NOT to do) Why strong businesses wait 90 days before reacting This episode is part of the Pool Nation Winter Business Series and is designed to help pool pros stop surviving — and start leading. Pool Nation 27th Dec Episode Tr… ⏱️ Episode Timestamps (YouTube / Spotify / SEO Friendly) 00:00 – Welcome to the Pool Nation Podcast 01:10 – Today’s Topic: You Raised Your Prices… Now What? 03:40 – Why the Silence After a Price Increase Feels So Uncomfortable 06:30 – Intentional Pricing vs Emotional Pricing 10:05 – Fear Source #1: Being Underpaid for Too Long 12:00 – Fear Source #2: Emotional Attachment to Customers 14:30 – Fear Source #3: Equating Customer Loss With Failure 17:00 – Why Margin Is Protection, Not Extra Money 20:10 – Understanding True Cost Per Pool 24:00 – Why One Billing Cycle Never Tells the Whole Story 28:00 – Sponsor Break 31:30 – Real Customer Behavior After Price Increases 35:00 – Filtering vs Losing Customers 38:20 – Why Better Customers Matter More Than More Customers 42:00 – How Aligned Pricing Changes Leadership 46:00 – What To Do With Your New Margin 52:30 – Leadership, Strategy, and Long-Term Pricing Reviews 59:00 – Final Thoughts & 2026 Outlook 🤝 Thank You to Our Sponsors A huge thank you to our Visionary Partners for supporting the Pool Nation Podcast and the pool pro community: SPPA (Swimming Pool Pro Alliance) Blu-Ray XL AquaStar Pool Products Natural Chemistry Raypak Heritage Pool Supply Hayward Pool Products PoolSide Tech Pool Brain US Motors / Nidec Your continued support helps Pool Nation deliver real education, real tools, and real results for pool professionals everywhere.

In episode 280 of the Pool Nation Podcast, Edgar De Jesus is joined by co-host Zach “The Pool Boy” Nicholas for Part 5 of the Winter Business Series, where they break down one of the hardest decisions pool service business owners face: how to raise prices with confidence — without losing customers. Raising prices can feel uncomfortable, emotional, and risky — especially when you’ve worked hard to build your route. Edgar and Zach walk through the real math, the mental hurdles, and the practical strategies pool pros need to protect their margins, improve profitability, and build a sustainable business in today’s changing economy. You’ll learn: Why waiting to raise prices actually makes it harder later How to communicate price increases clearly and professionally What customers really care about (hint: it’s not just price) Why losing a few low-margin accounts can actually grow your business How profitability, consistency, and service quality drive customer retention This episode is packed with real-world examples, mindset shifts, and actionable advice for pool service business owners who want to stop underpricing their work and start running a business that supports their life — not drains it. 👉 Next week: Edgar and Zach continue the conversation with a deep dive into customer retention and value-based service. ⏱️ Episode Timestamps 00:00 – Christmas intro & end-of-year reflection 01:30 – Why raising prices feels so uncomfortable for pool pros 05:45 – The hidden cost of not knowing your numbers 10:15 – When is the right time to raise prices? 14:30 – Why waiting actually makes price increases worse 20:00 – How to communicate price increases clearly and confidently 26:30 – What customer pushback really looks like 33:00 – Losing customers vs. building a healthier business 41:00 – Real-world math: fewer pools, more profit 48:00 – Handling common objections (“I can find someone cheaper”) 54:00 – Fixed-income customers & tough emotional decisions 59:00 – Why customers actually leave pool companies 1:05:30 – Final thoughts & preview of Part 6 (Customer Retention) 🙌 Thank You to Our Podcast Sponsors A huge thank you to our Pool Nation Podcast sponsors for supporting pool pros and helping us deliver real education to the industry: SPPA (Swimming Pool Pro Alliance) Blu-Ray XL AquaStar Pool Products Natural Chemistry Raypak Heritage Pool Supply Hayward Pool Products Poolside Tech Pool Brain Nidec / US Motors Your continued support helps elevate education, professionalism, and profitability across the pool industry.

In episode 279 of the Pool Nation Podcast, Edgar De Jesus is joined by co-hosts Zach “The Pool Boy” Nicholas and John “JJ Flawless” for Part 4 of the Winning Business Series, diving deep into one of the most misunderstood — and most important — topics in the pool industry: profit margins. This conversation goes far beyond “raise your prices.” Edgar and Zac break down why margin is the real indicator of business health, how to calculate your true cost per pool, and how to build pricing that actually supports growth, stability, and long-term success. You’ll learn why dollar profit alone is fragile, how thin margins quietly destroy pool businesses, and how the Good / Better / Best pricing model can protect your margins while giving customers choice — especially in a market where consumer confidence is tightening. The episode also covers: How hidden leaks like drive time, chemical creep, and non-billable labor eat away at profits Why knowing your numbers removes fear from price increases How to prepare your routes and customers before raising rates Why winter is the best time to fix your pricing for the year ahead If you’re heading into 2026 without absolute clarity on your pricing, margins, and profitability, this episode is a must-listen for pool service owners, repair techs, and business leaders who want to stop guessing and start building intentionally. ⏱️ Episode Timestamps [00:00:00] Welcome to the Pool Nation Podcast & show intro[00:01:00] Part 4 of the Winning Business Series begins[00:02:30] Why solo podcasts feel different & listener feedback[00:04:00] AquaStar Golden Ticket experience & behind-the-scenes factory tour[00:08:30] Industry culture, leadership, and why AquaStar stands out[00:11:00] Recap of hidden profit leaks from previous episodes[00:14:00] Why margins matter more than dollar profit[00:16:30] Understanding margin percentages (20%, 30%, 40%, 50%+)[00:19:00] Real-world examples of margin failure in pool businesses[00:22:00] How to calculate your true cost per pool[00:24:00] Building pricing based on math — not emotion[00:26:00] Why knowing your numbers changes how you sell[00:29:00] Sponsor break[00:34:00] Good / Better / Best pricing explained[00:38:00] Consumer psychology and why most customers choose “Better”[00:41:00] Using tiered pricing for service and repairs[00:44:00] Preparing for a price increase the right way[00:47:00] Reviewing routes and identifying problem pools[00:50:00] Why winter is the best time to fix pricing[00:54:00] Final thoughts on margins, growth, and confidence[00:56:00] Teaser for Part 5: How to announce price increases[00:57:00] Show outro & where to find Pool Nation resources    🙌 Thank You to Our Sponsors A huge thank you to our visionary partners who make the Pool Nation Podcast possible: SPPA (Swimming Pool Pro Alliance) AquaStar Pool Products Blu-Ray XL Natural Chemistry Raypak Heritage Pool Supply Hayward Pool Products Poolside Tech Pool Brain Nidec / US Motors Your continued support helps us bring real business education to pool pros everywhere.

In Episode 278 of Pool Nation Podcast, Edgar and Todd broadcast straight from the AquaStar Studio in Ventura, California, where they sit down with two incredible industry leaders: Michelle Watson (Shell’s Pool & Spa) and Max O’Brien (Ventura Pool Pro & IPSA Region 2 Officer). In this powerful, conversation-driven episode, Michelle and Max open up about their journey as pool professionals, navigating growth, scaling challenges, commercial vs. residential service, hiring, California compliance, and the moment every pool pro faces — letting go and trusting a team. Michelle shares how she built a thriving business, her passion for doing things the right way, and how she balances entrepreneurship with surfing three times a week. Max dives into his 24-year pool career, commercial expertise, IPSA leadership, and his unbelievable work with the Ventura County Sheriff’s Underwater Search & Rescue Team, including helicopter deployment training and real recovery missions. This episode is full of leadership, inspiration, business insight, and a deep look at the people elevating the swimming pool industry every single day. Perfect for pool pros who want to grow, lead, and take their business to the next level. Timestamps / Chapters 00:00 – Welcome to the Pool Nation PodcastKickoff from AquaStar’s studio; Todd, Edgar & crew set the tone for the night. 01:00 – Golden Ticket Event & First LaughsBehind the scenes, late-night jokes, and studio vibes. 03:00 – Edgar Discovers AquaStar’s Hidden DetailA deep reflection on culture, quality, and details inside AquaStar HQ. 05:00 – Shoutouts & Getting StartedCelebrating the Instagram Live audience and diving into the episode. 05:30 – Introducing Michelle WatsonPool Girl of the Year 2022, the creator behind the legendary Awards Afterparty, and a powerhouse entrepreneur. 07:00 – Michelle’s Journey: From Solo Operator to Scaling a TeamTrusting employees, handling growth, onboarding, preparing for W-2s, and running a business in California. 10:00 – Residential vs. Commercial PoolsWhy Michelle prefers commercial service and how she navigates health department regulations. 13:00 – Surfing, Balance & Burnout PreventionHow Michelle stays grounded and energized while growing her business. 16:00 – Family, Business & Raising Hard WorkersHer son’s journey, firefighting dreams, and working alongside family. 18:00 – The Psychology of Scaling a Pool BusinessLetting go, employee mistakes, customer expectations, and the fear every owner faces. 20:00 – Building a Model That Works AnywhereCharging correctly, doing things legally, and proving success is possible even in tough markets. 23:00 – Introducing Max O’BrienCommercial specialist, remodel expert, and long-time Ventura pool pro. 24:00 – How Max Got Into the IndustryFrom hotel maintenance → equipment installs → building pools → launching his own company. 26:00 – Operating a 130-Pool Service CompanyCommercial routes, 5-day-a-week accounts, and running teams. 28:00 – Max on Education, IPSA & Training the Next GenerationWhy he teaches, how he trains, and preparing techs to become future entrepreneurs. 31:00 – Inside IPSA Ventura: The Most Active Chapter in CaliforniaEducation, manuals, sick-route/tech-for-tech coverage, outreach, and 64-member collaboration. 34:00 – Tech-for-Tech Stories That Define the IndustryReal examples of chapters covering full routes during illness, injury, and tragedy. 39:00 – Max’s Second Life: Underwater Search & RescueHis 20-year role with the Ventura County Sheriff’s Dive Team — car recoveries, searches, evidence retrieval, and blind-water operations. 41:00 – Jumping Out of HelicoptersWhat helicopter deployments are really like (spoiler: full scuba gear and 35-foot drops). 43:00 – Recoveries, Emotions & Mental ResilienceHow divers process tough calls and why closure for families matters. 47:00 – Final Thoughts from Michelle & MaxBusiness advice, industry inspiration, and the motor