We start our build series with new clients, existing clients and setting expectations. Our build series guest is Ben Lasseter of Design Ecology in Austin, TX. They are an award-winning landscape architecture and luxury pool design/build firm with an incredible reputation.

Sponsored by: Lyon Financial can help you sell more pools by offering your customers the industry’s best financing options! Call 877-754-5966 or visit www.lyonfinancial.net today!

[00:01:08] The importance of understanding how a swimming pool is built

[00:04:18] Why are we starting with new clients, existing clients, and setting expectations?

[00:05:24] What are the things you notice about working with existing customers versus a new customer that you've never worked with before?

[00:06:58] Who falls under that existing client category?

[00:08:03] Red flags when you're meeting with customers

[00:09:39] New builder struggles and transitioning to getting paid for designs

[00:12:59] Be realistic for yourself and the industry

[00:16:37] Relationship between pool builder and existing clients

[00:18:46] Lyon Ad.

[00:23:03] Having an influence on home owners and home builder

[00:26:22] Is there any advantages to working with a homeowner opposed to the builder?

[00:31:01] Do you start with homeowner or home builder?

[00:32:04] How to keep clients and relationships

[00:36:11] Jmax Plumbing communicating with home builder

[00:39:46] How much more valuable do you become when you attach on the landscape architecture side?

[00:43:44] What does the landscape architect cover?

[00:45:24] Homeowner referrals and architect lead source

[00:48:51] Social media for pool builders and the impact it has.

[00:55:23] Recap of the episode meeting

• [00:00:31] Pool Brain: Pool Brain at Las Vegas PSP Expo
• [00:00:49] Pool Magazine: 10 Ways to Throw The Ultimate Halloween Party in the Privacy of Your Own Backyard
• [00:01:22] Lyon Financial: Upcoming Pool Financing 101 Podcast Episode
• [00:01:51] Jandy: The Jandy SpeedSet Controller
• [00:02:48] Island Stone: Sukabumi Select
• [00:03:49] Raypak: Did you know? New Crosswind V Heat Pump Pool Heater
• [00:04:38] Hasa: Phoenix Event - Pool Chemistry Certified Residential Course
• [00:05:00] Luxury Pools + Outdoor Living: Pinnacle Awards 2023
• [00:05:13] Pool Nation: Pool Nation Awards 2023 officially closes today
• [00:05:29] Primate: Can Primate Pole Handle Heavy Vac?
• [00:06:03] Anderson Manufacturing: Tools for Leaks & PHTA Education Partner
• [00:06:32] Tankproof: Signup to Newsletter
• [00:06:46] Environmental Pools: Hiring in Bolton, MA - Pool Service Division
• [00:07:21] Pool Industry Podcasts:
• [00:08:21] Pool Industry Trade Shows: The International Pool Spa Patio Expo in Las Vegas NV November 10-15
• [00:08:48] Book of the Week: The 2-Hour Cocktail Party by Nick Gray
• [00:09:06] Quote of the Week: Do what you love. Do what you're good at. Do what the world needs. Do what you can get paid for. - Ikigai
• [00:09:18] Pools in Culture: Poolman starring Chris Pine

Nick Gray is an entrepreneur and best-selling author living in Austin, Texas. Nick is the author of The 2-Hour Cocktail Party, a step-by-step handbook that teaches you how to build big relationships by hosting small gatherings. He’s been featured in The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, and New York Magazine called him a host of “culturally significant parties.”
In this episode we discuss topics from his book starting with why people should host a cocktail party and the benefits that come with it. We are living in a time where social media has taken over and there is less human interaction than ever. A good party can help with business networking, confidence, and new friends. If your in the swimming pool industry this could be a great way to find new customers. Inviting neighbors, friends, builders, contractors, relators, vendors, and even local competition. You never know who you will meet and the doors that might open for you. If you enjoy this talk I highly encourage you to buy a copy for yourself . You wont regret it.

• Sponsored by: Lyon Financial can help you sell more pools by offering your customers the industry’s best financing options! Call 877-754-5966 or visit www.lyonfinancial.net today!
•  Pool Chasers: Website, Instagram, YouTube, LinkedIn, Patreon

Topics Discussed:

• [00:01:41] About Nick Gray
• [00:03:49] Why host a cocktail  party
• [00:07:10] People becoming disconnected & how parties can help
• [00:09:08] The fear of nobody showing up
• [00:13:25] Reserve RSVP list
• [00:16:21] How to prepare for cocktail party
• [00:18:04] How much you should expect to spend
• [00:20:13] Balance of men or women at these parties?
• [00:22:36] Ask core friends to show up
• [00:23:54] What is the theme or agenda
• [00:25:30] Guests not knowing anybody and clinging to the host
• [00:26:29] How to conduct parties with a pool
• [00:30:10] Dress code
• [00:32:05] What to be aware of?
• [00:33:16] What to avoid
• [00:34:21] Recommending party to clients

Connect with Nick Gray:

• Nick Gray's Personal Website
• The 2-Hour Cocktail Party Book
• Audio Book on Audible
• YouTube
• Instagram

Welcome to our first Flash Briefing! Each week we will share updates from various brands & people in the swimming pool industry along with resources we think would be helpful and maybe even a little fun and inspiration. If you have some upcoming exciting news. You can email me at poolchasers.greg@gmail.com or visit https://www.poolchasers.com/ 

• [00:45] Pool Brain: NPP Chooses Pool Brain to Optimize Operations At All Branches Nationwide 
• [01:34] Pool Magazine: Pool Magazine will be exhibiting at the PSP Deck Expo this November in Las Vegas. Interested in a free ticket to the show? Use promo code: POOLMAG23 for free expo tickets! 
• [02:00] Lyon Financial: Lyon Financial can help you sell more pools by offering your customers the industry’s best financing options!
• [02:42] Jandy: Jandy’s new Infinite WaterColors™ LED Lights offer all the colors of the rainbow and more!
• [03:15] Raypak: Important reminder that Raypak has some upcoming training for pros in the California market. 
• [03:44] Primate: Primate Pool Tools, leading the way in carbon fiber technology! Offering the strongest and lightest poles, the best warranty coverage & customer service and even custom designed poles! Use promo code poolchasers20 for $20 off your order. Primate Pool Lock 
• [04:46] Anderson Manufacturing: Anderson Manufacturing is now a certified PHTA Education Partner! Get Training Dates & Info by clicking the link. 
• [05:03] TankProof: The most common cause of drowning is not knowing how to swim. Since 2011 Tankproof has been Saving lives by providing free swim lessons to kids across the country. Visit Tankproof website to see how you can donate or volunteer.
• [05:22] PHTA: PHTA announces a new event MasterMind Summit. The event is designed to inspire, elevate, and challenge your way of thinking. This will be held from December 10-11 in Ft. Lauderdale, FL.
• 05:35 Environmental Pools: Environmental Pools is seeking employment opportunities within their pool service division. Whether you have lead technical and automation experience or cleaning experience they are looking to invest and employ individuals that want to continue to grow and excel in the pool service industry.
• [06:28] Pool Industry Podcasts: 
• [07:15] International Pool Spa Patio Expo
• [07:31] Book of the Week
• [07:42] Quote of the Week
• [07:47] Pools in Movies

Brittany Duncan, an associate landscape architect at Design Ecology, shares her experiences and insights in the world of landscape architecture and luxury pool design/build in Austin, TX. 

Topics Discussed:

• 03:45: About Brittany Duncan
• 05:51: Brittany's role at Design Ecology
• 07:56: About landscape architecture and what separates it from other landscape design roles
• 08:57: Things taken into consideration when designing a project
• 15:43: Working with high-end clients in Austin
• 20:01: Juggling multiple projects at the same time
• 20:57: Waiting 1 year before taking photos
• 26:06: Designing inspiration sources 
• 27:44: Keeping track of inspiration
• 30:29: Sourcing hard to find materials found online
• 35:32: Communicating design vision to the client
• 38:26: Favorite size projects and why
• 40:26: Most rewarding project
• 42:56: When designing a backyard with a pool, what are you expected to know in terms of design?
• 45:58: The importance of understanding plumbing and hydraulics
• 50:36: Design plans details
• 52:09: Project turnaround time
• 55:25: “Austin-style” backyard & pool
• 1:05:08: Plants and materials Brittany most enjoys working with
• 01:07:37: Is there a detail or something that repeats in every design you do?
• 01:10:56: How many projects working on at once?
• 1:09:59: How Brittany is matched with clients
• 01:12:05: Do you have a detail that you've designed that you haven't built yet or something that isn't out yet?

Connect with Design Ecology:

• Website 
• Instagram
• Facebook 

Connect with Pool Chasers:

• Website 
• Instagram 
• Facebook 
• YouTube 
• Pinterest 
• TikTok 
• Patreon 

Andy Everleigh is second generation CEO of Environmental Pools located in Chelmsford Massachusetts. Environmental Pools ranks nationally amongst the top 50 pool builders in the country, along with receiving numerous awards over the years. Andy Everleigh Jr. started working for the company at a young age and joined the staff full time upon graduating from Suffolk University with a Business Management degree. He has been a vital part of the company’s growth over the past 15 years. Andy’s focus has been the expansion of the company’s presence throughout New England while maintaining the highest level of workmanship in collaboration with the finest architects and builders. He brings forth a new level of experience through communication and swimming pool construction techniques. His passion and vision will lead the company forward.

In this episode Andy discusses the history, transitioning into the CEO position, growth, technology, and how they work with home builders and landscape architects.

This episode is brought to you by Lyon Financial: Offer your customers the industry’s best financing options and sell more pools! Lyon Financial’s low rates and long terms give your clients more buying power by making a pool affordable, one low monthly payment at a time. They offer unsecured loans with: • Low, fixed rates • Terms up to 30 years • Single loan amounts up to $200,000 • Options for credit scores of 640+ • And no 6% consulting fees like other finance sources charge your customers

Lyon Financial pays builders directly, ensuring payment on time and in full.

Call 877-754-5966 or visit www.lyonfinancial.net today!

Connect with Guest:

• Website 
• Instagram 
• Facebook 
• Environmental Pools LinkedIn 
• Andy Everleigh LinkedIn 

Connect with Pool Chasers:

• Website 
• Instagram 
• Facebook 
• YouTube 
• Twitter 
• Pinterest 
• TikTok 
• Patreon 

In this episode we talk with Fluidra’s Vice President of Marketing, Brad Parker and Vice President of Engineering Product Development, Mark Baukman to discuss sustainability and the actions they are taking now and for the future.

Fluidra’s philosophy and approach to sustainability is dual-faceted: environmental responsibility and long-term business viability. They are committed to reducing an environmental impact in every community they operate in, aligning with ethical practices. Second, they focus on creating a sustainable business model that will thrive for decades by closely listening to consumer preferences and monitoring ever-changing policies. This proactive stance ensures they’re not only doing business ethically but also preparing for a sustainable future, rather than being forced to make reactive changes.

The brands involved in Fluidra’s push for sustainability are AstralPool, Zodiac, Jandy, Polaris, Gre, Cepex, CTX Pro, Certikin, and Piscine Laghetto

Topics Discussed:

• [00:02:10] What is your company's philosophy on sustainability?
• [00:03:46] How does sustainability align with your company's overall mission and values?
• [00:05:34] What inspired your company to focus on sustainability, and how has this focus evolved over time?
• [00:08:56] Following strict compliance
• [00:14:32] What are the primary environmental challenges your company is currently addressing?
• [00:16:16] How does your company work to reduce emissions, waste, and resource consumption?
• [00:17:48] The cost of Sustainability
• [00:23:30] How is your company leveraging technology and innovation to drive sustainability?
• [00:27:00] Advantage of being in California market
• [00:29:12] How do you determine what products are or aren’t sustainable?
• [00:37:40] What are some examples of sustainable products that contribute the most to a make a pool more sustainable?
• [00:41:16] What would a fully sustainable pool look like?  How would it be different from a typical pool as we know it today?
• [00:44:06] What are the main challenges you've faced in implementing sustainability initiatives, and how have you overcome them?
• [00:50:03] How do you see your company's sustainability efforts evolving in the next 5 to 10 years?

Connect with Guest:

• Fluidra Website 
• Fluidra LinkedIn 
• Fluidra Sustainability

Connect with Pool Chasers:

• Website 
• Instagram 
• Facebook 
• YouTube 
• Twitter 
• Pinterest 
• TikTok 
• Patreon 

Finally, a slide for the swimming pool we can be proud of! In this episode we talk with Splinterworks co-founder, Miles Hartwell located in Bath, United Kingdom.

Miles shares the story of how Splinterworks went from creating furniture to designing unique pool slides and other innovative structures. They discuss their unexpected ideas, such as a hammock bath and a swimming pool slide, and how their passion for creating fun and cool designs led them to where they are today. Tune in to learn more about the fascinating journey of Splinterworks and their unconventional approach to design.

EPISODE 257 WEB PAGE

In this episode we are joined by CPA Joshua Hayes to discuss the tax side of selling a business. Joshua, with 30 years of experience in tax, specializes in transaction advisory services, particularly in the M&A space. He shares his insights on helping business owners efficiently sell their companies and navigate the unique tax structures involved in these transactions. Tune in to learn more about the importance of using standardized financial rules and the value of expert tax guidance when selling your business.

** Visit Pool Chasers Website for More Information **

In this casual episode, we chat with our good friend Kayne Zamorano, the visionary founder of Premier Pool Care and Premier Pool Co. in Phoenix, Arizona. Kayne tbrings us up to speed on his journey of balancing pool maintenance, construction, and product innovation. His evolution from pool service to construction was ignited by frustrations over servicing luxury pools that were lacking appropriate equipment or care. As he stepped into the construction world, he quickly mastered the nuances of the industry and understood how agility fuels success. Despite the pressures to deliver projects swiftly, Kayne remains committed to his mission of crafting high-quality pools, embracing patience and acknowledging the inherent learning curves. His tenacity shines through as he continually offers comprehensive services to his clientele. Join us to uncover Kayne's captivating narrative and gain an insider's view into the world of pool-building.

In this episode, Megan Kendrick joins us to discuss Pool Pro Magazine July/August 2023 issue. The main focus of this issue is placed on the challenges faced by the pool industry during the busy summer season. We discuss the physical and mental toll that the industry takes on professionals and share insights on how to protect one's mental health during this demanding period. The cover features Spartan Pool & Patio located in Norman, Oklahoma. This issue is packed with quality articles including The Effects of Price Changes, Remodeling with Hydroblasting, Cyclical Pool Marketing, and much more! Tune in to gain valuable insights and strategies for thriving in the pool industry.

Topics Discussed:

• [00:03:23] Spartan Pool & Patio
• [00:06:51] Summer Survival Guide
• [00:10:50] Monkey Island
• [00:14:59] Leadership
• [00:19:37] The Effects of Price Changes
• [00:23:42] Hydroblasting
• [00:27:21] Cyclical Pool Marketing
• [00:28:12] Trade certified business

Connect with Guest:

• Pool Pro Magazine July/August 2023
• Sign Up for Magazine
• Vote 30 Under Forty
• Trade Certified

Connect with Pool Chasers:

• Website
• Instagram
• Facebook
• YouTube
• Twitter
• Pinterest
• TikTok
• Patreon

In this episode we are are joined by special guests Garth Stevens and Buzz Giz. Garth, a corporate attorney specializing in mergers and acquisitions, shares insights and advice on the complex process of selling a business. Listeners can expect to learn about the challenges, emotional aspects, and importance of staying focused throughout the negotiation and documentation stages.

We are also joined by returning guest Buzz Ghiz. When Buzz decided to sell Paddock Pools in 2004 he hired Snell & Wilmer where he worked closely with Garth. After having success they went on to work on other deals including Paramount Pool & Spa Systems. 

Sponsors:

• Jandy SpeedSet Variable-Speed Pump Controller
• Lyon Financial

Connect with Garth Stevens:

• Website
• LinkedIn

Connect with Pool Chasers:

• Website
• Instagram
• Facebook
• YouTube
• Twitter
• Pinterest
• TikTok
• Patreon

This episode features a conversation with Alex King and Dwayne May from King Technology, a company specializing in pool chemicals and proprietary mineral technology. They explain how their technology helps sanitize water and use less chemicals, and also talks about their EPA registration as a disinfectant. The company has been in business for 45 years. They discuss the differences between their mineral technology and other minerals on the market, and how they focus on prevention rather than prescription.

Connect with Guest:

• King Technology Website
• Frog 
• Aqua Smarte Plus
• Sani King
• New Water

Connect with Pool Chasers:

• Website 
• Instagram 
• Facebook 
• YouTube 
• Twitter 
• Pinterest 
• TikTok 
• Patreon 

Greg and Justin sit down with Benjamin Lasseter of Design Ecology, an award-winning landscape architecture and luxury pool design/build firm based in Austin, Texas.

Listen in as Ben gives his thoughts on the state of the pool building space in Austin. He runs through his pool building process, from the design phase to the specialized trades that come in, and his passion for incorporating water elements into his designs.

Ben also discusses his journey from graduating with a political science degree to his foray into the pool business, eventually meeting Scott Cummings who would become co-owner of Design Ecology. They built their success in the industry by consistently standing by their philosophy of being generous with his knowledge, resulting over time in a loyal client base.

Asked about Design Ecology’s unique process to pool building, Ben talks about why he’s partial to perimeter overflows and why he prefers a minimal contemporary style over free-form pools. Plus, we touch on considerations regarding skimmer bottoms and dealing with flooded gutters, building surge tanks, plumbing, as well as how to plan in advance for minimal noise from the overflow.

Sponsors:

• Jandy SpeedSet Variable-Speed Pump Controller 
• Lyon Financial 

Connect with Guest:

• Design Ecology Website 
• Instagram 
• Facebook 

Connect with Pool Chasers:

• Website 
• Instagram 
• Facebook 
• YouTube 
• Twitter 
• Pinterest 
• TikTok 
• Patreon 

Greg and Justin sit down with Sarah Teveldal of FlashPool Productions, an underwater photography and video production company, at the stunning Commodore Perry Estate in Austin, Texas.

FlashPool productions offers underwater photography and video services worldwide for private and commercial clients, pool builders, swimwear brands, and much more. 

Sarah shares her remarkable journey from her beginnings in South Dakota to finding her passion for underwater photography in Australia, and how she transformed this passion into a successful business.

We do a deep dive into the world of underwater photography as Sarah talks to us about the unique techniques and equipment required to capture breathtaking photos and videos for swim teams, swim schools, and even pool parties.

She describes her process for documenting pool-cleaning and construction processes creatively for social media, and how planning ahead is crucial for achieving the perfect shot. She reveals the challenges she faced while building her custom fiberglass pool, as well as her love for swimming and traveling.

Finally, Sarah gives her thoughts on the growing popularity of underwater maternity shoots and mermaid makeovers, showcasing the versatility and captivating nature of underwater photography.

Sponsors:

• Jandy SpeedSet Variable-Speed Pump Controller
• Lyon Financial 

Topics Discussed:

• [03:45] About Sarah and FlashPool, and how she got into underwater photography
• [05:59] Types of photoshoots and clients
• [07:55] How did you get into underwater photography?
• [13:35] First clients
• [15:31] Photographers who inspire Sarah
• [17:11] First pool builder client in Austin
• [19:02] Jandy SpeedSet Variable-Speed Pump Controller
• [20:05] Sarah’s go-to gear
• [24:05] What is ISO?
• [27:32]Best Financing Options with Lyon Financial
• [28:34] Photography tips for pool service or builders
• [30:02]Be creative & test new angles
• [34:44] Benefits of underwater photography for the trades
• [39:21] Sarah’s pool-building experience as a owner builder
• [54:30] Sarah’s favorite swimming pool destinations

Connect with Sarah Teveldal:

• Website 
• Instagram 
• Facebook 

Connect with Pool Chasers:

• Website 
• Instagram 
• Facebook 
• YouTube 
• Twitter 
• Pinterest 
• TikTok 
• Patreon 

Greg sits down with Megan Kendrick to talk about the May/June 2023 issue of PoolPro Magazine!

Megan shares her excitement for this issue’s Power Women feature, as well as its cover featuring Horn Family Pools’ Jeanette Horn.

She also talks about featuring Dustin Anderson, CEO of Precision Aquatics, to offer readers a look behind the curtain of a commercial service company.

The latest issue touches on the developing discussion around building pools with insulated concrete form (ICF), and includes a growing news section, and an article on why every business owner always needs to keep the word “breakeven” in mind.

Topics Discussed:

• About the Power Women feature
• What Megan loves about Jeanette Horn
• Featuring Dustin Anderson of Precision Aquatics
• Including ads “organically” into the magazine’s stories
• ICF for pools
• What to expect in the news section
• The importance of breakeven

Connect with Guest:

• Pool Pro Magazine May/June 2023 - https://poolpromag.com/may-june-2023/
• Vote 30 Under Forty - https://poolpromag.com/30-under-40-nominations/
• Sign Up for Magazine - https://poolpromag.com/subscribe/

Connect with Pool Chasers:

• Website - https://poolchasers20.com/
• Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/poolchasers/
• Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/poolchasers/
• YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCXIcnqHms_PEu8AAPafxdVA
• Twitter - https://twitter.com/poolchasers
• Pinterest - https://www.pinterest.com/poolchaserspodcast/
• TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@poolchasers
• Patreon - https://www.patreon.com/poolchasers

Key Quotes by Megan:

• I love hearing from people who are just doing their thing, doing it well, and caring about their customers.
• Breakeven, in general, is the amount of money you need to start making money.

Sarah Herring currently works for Innovative Pool Trades managing the shotcrete division.

After serving 2 1/2 years in prison she worked as a CSR for one of the largest pool builders in the valley, Mossman Brothers Pools. While working for Mossman she developed many skills and undertook tasks that would make her the go-to person for customers and sub-contractors. After years of continued commitment she decided to move on.

During her time at Mossman, Sarah created a reputation for doing whatever needed to be done to ensure pools got built! Even if that meant using personal lines of credit to buy equipment. The respect she has for the trades is mutual and almost personal.

Sponsors:

• Jandy SpeedSet Variable-Speed Pump Controller 
• Lyon Financial 

Topics Discussed:

• [00:05:35] How Sarah Got Started in the Pool Business
• [00:20:57] Lyon Financial
• [00:26:57] Planning for life after prison
• [00:29:06] Adjusting to life after prison
• [00:29:55] First jobs after release
• [00:31:07] First year at Mossman
• [00:32:07] Sticking it out with Mossman
• [00:33:44] Working as a CSR & more
• [00:35:00] Jandy SpeedSet Variable-Speed Pump Controller
• [00:36:47] Dealing with frustrated customers
• [00:37:30] Going above & beyond for subs
• [00:38:29] What Mike & Justin dislike about working with CSR's
• [00:45:46] What Sarah would do different
• [00:53:17] Pros & cons of being a woman CSR
• [00:56:57] Going the extra mile for clients
• [01:00:12] Currently working with Innovative Shotcrete
• [01:11:35] Favorite pool

Connect with Guest:

• Website 

Connect with Pool Chasers:

• Website 
• Instagram 
• Facebook
• YouTube
• Twitter
• Pinterest 
• TikTok 
• Patreon 

Greg, Justin, and Mike sit down with Gordon Ly. He is the founder of Ly Visuals, a Scottsdale based creative agency specializing in scroll stopping video and photo content tailor-made for local small businesses and global e-commerce brands alike.

Gordon got his start in the world of business with an active apparel company he launched out of his passion for health and fitness. That experience brought with it a ton of lessons that Gordon carried over into his creative agency.

Listen in as Gordon discusses the ins-and-outs of content marketing in 2023. To him, rising above the noise in today’s saturated marketplace comes down to acquiring and keeping your prospects’ attention.

The key to doing this is by putting out the right type of content on the social media platforms of your choice, regularly over a long period of time to stay top-of-mind with your ideal customers, and tracking their progress through your sales funnel at every touchpoint.

Gordon also talks about why he decided to introduce coaching and the sale of digital products into his business to those who want a hands-on opportunity to master the sales process.

Topics Discussed:

• Gordon’s biggest lessons learned in business
• Intentional content creation
• Creating content that converts
• The right type of video content for different social media platforms
• Considerations regarding sound in video content
• Getting people comfortable during photoshoots
• How Gordon prices his services
• The value of failing fast
• Why Gordon was inspired to offer digital products
• Our favorite books and audiobooks
• Gordon’s favorite pools

Connect with Gordon Ly:

• Website 
• Instagram @gordonly 
• Instagram @lyvisuals 

Connect with Pool Chasers:

• Website 
• Instagram 
• Facebook 
• YouTube 
• Twitter 
• Pinterest 
• TikTok 
• Patreon 

Greg and Justin sit down with Ryan Werlich, VP of Operations at Rain Deck, a company that produces residential and commercial splash pad/park products.

Before getting into pools, Ryan was in the real estate space. It was in 2012, during the subprime mortgage crisis, when he got into the pool industry by “accident” after reconnecting with old church missionary friends, who proposed that they do business together.

Listen in as Ryan breaks down the construction of splash pads, both on the residential and the commercial level. He explains what builders will find in Rain Deck’s backyard splash pad kit and the average costs homeowners should expect when considering the installation of a backyard splash pad.

He also talks about incorporating an existing pool’s piping with a new splash pad, as well as automation. Finally, Ryan shares why, since the outbreak of the pandemic, he and the Rain Deck team have stopped attending pool trade shows, and how they maintain a steady stream of referrals today.

Sponsors:

• Jandy SpeedSet Variable-Speed Pump Controller 
• Lyon Financial 

Topics Discussed:

• [01:34] Ryan’s early career
• [04:58] From real estate into the pool industry
• [07:40] The story behind Rain Deck
• [11:36] What goes into building a splash pad
• [15:04] What’s in the Rain Deck splash pad kit
• [17:48] Lyon Financial
• [17:48] Jandy Speed Set Variable Speed Pump Controller
• [18:49] Setting up the Raid Deck backyard splash pad
• [28:07] The average budget for a backyard splash pad
• [30:08] Ryan’s favorite features for residential and commercial splash pads
• [34:31] Incorporating pool automation with a splash pad
• [37:22] Ryan’s favorite project
• [40:07] How Rain Deck finds customers

Connect with Guest:

• Website 
• Instagram 
• LinkedIn 
• YouTube 

Connect with Pool Chasers:

• Website 
• Instagram 
• Facebook 
• YouTube 
• Twitter 
• Pinterest 
• TikTok 
• Patreon 

Greg and Justin sit down with Ryan West, President of Leak Science, a veteran-owned company which specializes in swimming pool leak detection and pool restoration.

Ryan got his start in the pool business after leaving the U.S. Navy. Beginning with a small route of pools, he quickly grew his company to over 300 client accounts. After a successful run in pool service management, Ryan sold his business and switched his focus exclusively to repair work.

Following leak detection training, Ryan opened Leak Science—the only full-service company of its kind in the Valley. He lists the unique challenges of the job, the equipment he uses, what he listens for as a leak locator, and the stringent training process he uses when hiring repairmen.

Ryan discusses the different types of leaks and what makes detecting them so hard. He also explains what builders should consider when constructing a pool to minimize the risk of leaks, as well as what to do to ensure longevity following a leak fix.

Finally, he talks about his process for working with new clients, communicating with irritable clients, avoiding lawsuits, and dealing with the tricky situation of being called on by owner-builders.

Sponsors:

• Jandy SpeedSet Variable-Speed Pump Controller 
• Lyon Financial 
• Anderson Manufacturing 

Topics Discussed:

• [05:05] About Ryan and Leak Science
• [12:58] Ryan’s worst job
• [19:59] What makes leak detection so hard
• [24:19] Types of leaks
• [32:21] How long it takes for a leak to be noticed and preliminary questions asked
• [39:37] The average cost of Ryan’s services
• [45:10] About the static leak test
• [57:28] Using helium in leak detection
• [1:09:55] Ensuring longevity following a leak fix
• [1:20:17] Structural considerations to avoid leaks when constructing a pool
• [1:25:17] Dealing with owner-builders
• [1:28:06] Ryan’s favorite pool and the most outrageous pool he’s ever seen

Connect with Guest:

• Leak Science Website 

Connect with Pool Chasers:

• Website 
• Instagram
• Facebook 
• YouTube 
• Twitter 
• Pinterest 
• TikTok 
• Patreon