Talking Pools Podcast – Details, episodes & analysis

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Rudy dives headfirst into cyanuric acid — CYA, stabilizer, conditioner — the most misquoted, weaponized, and argued-about chemical in the pool industry. He breaks down what the science actually says about HOCl in stabilized water, why that old HOCl / OCl⁻ chart belongs in a museum, how CYA really impacts ORP, TA, and LSI, and why “chlorine lock” is less supernatural curse and more “you nuked the stabilizer and fed the biofilm.”

Between the chemistry deep dive, Rudy hits the global pool-industry newswire: PHTA’s APSP-11 rewrite, bromate and sodium bromide drama, media consolidation across major trade mags, massive international trade show attendance, European trends in energy-efficient builds, Australian code delays, and South American market movement. If you’re running a pool business in 2025, this episode hits both your test kit and your bottom line.

In This Episode

• CYA: Not the Villain, Not the Hero, Just Misunderstood
  Why cyanuric acid became “chlorine’s sunscreen,” how chlorinated cyanurates actually work, and why CYA got popular in the first place — because it works, not because a committee was bored in the ’60s.
• Why the Classic HOCl Chart is Garbage in Stabilized Pools
   
• Real HOCl Percentages at Common CYA Levels
   
• Copper Cyanurate Stains & “Prom Night Blue” Plaster
   
• CYA, Total Alkalinity & LSI: The Secret Sabotage
   
• ORP Suppression & Why Stabilized Pools Read “Low”
   
• Chlorine Lock is a Myth
   
• The Holy Sh*t Zone: CYA at 300 ppm and Up
   
• Alum Method to Lower CYA – How to Do It Right
   
• Fecal Incidents, CYA, and the Law (CDC Crypto Protocols)
   
• Does CYA Really Buffer pH? The Honest Answer
   
• Best-Practice CYA Targets
   

Global Trade Magazine News Roundup

Rudy also runs through the week’s biggest stories from around the world:

• PHTA’s APSP-11 Water Quality Standard Rewrite
   
• Record Global Attendance at the 2025 PSP/Deck Expo in Vegas
   
• Pool & Spa News – Top 50 Service Survey
   
• AQUA Magazine’s 50th Anniversary Preview
   
• Service Industry News – United Chemical Bromate Study
   
• Kenilworth Media’s Big Acquisition Move
   
• EuroSpaPoolNews – Barcelona & Germany Specials
   
• SPLASH! Magazine – NCC 2025 Delay in Australia
   
• Brazil – Revista da Piscina & Pool Life
   

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In this week’s episode of Insurance Interludes, host Steve Sherwood teams up once again with Pat Grignon, Vice President of the California Pool Association (CPA), to tackle a real-world scenario hitting every service tech’s nightmare list:

A failing shell. A leaking pool. Conflicting opinions. And YOU stuck in the middle.

Steve brings the audience behind the scenes of his own route — a client with a structural crack that keeps reopening, “experts” claiming they can fix it, and the big question:

“How do I protect myself while still trying to do good business?”

Pat breaks down exactly how pool pros can keep themselves legally covered, insured, and sane when structural failures, hillside homes, cracked shells, and desperate customers collide.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode

📝 Why Paper Trails Are Your Lifeline

Pat explains why ANY phone call about structural damage needs to be followed by a “per our conversation…” email or text. Document everything — not because you're dramatic, but because you need receipts when things go sideways.

⚠️ When to Walk Away (and When You Can Stay)

Steve and Pat compare two real pools from Steve’s route:
 • A cliffside pool in Silver Lake that could cause a full-blown mudslide — instant “NOPE.”
 • A flat-ground residential pool losing water but posing low catastrophic risk — maybe salvageable if documented correctly.

🛠️ Are Those ‘Staple Repairs’ Really Reliable?

They discuss companies that claim they can staple, bond, fiberglass, or otherwise resurrect a cracked shell — and whether those repairs last or leave YOU holding the liability bag.

📨 Exactly What to Write to Protect Yourself

Pat gives the language every pool pro should use, including:
 • Confirming the client takes responsibility
 • Noting structural issues are outside your scope
 • Stating you will maintain water quality only, not shell integrity
 • Recording that repairs are done by others, not you

🧨 Hidden Risks in Fancy Backyards

Steve asks the big question for pool pros in high-end markets:
 “What crazy features require extra insurance riders?”
 Pat breaks down:
 • Grottos
 • Waterfalls
 • Diving boards
 • Rock jump ledges
 • Slides
 • Custom features homeowners swear are ‘totally safe’

…and why touching some of these items (tightening a bolt, adjusting a slide, fixing a board) instantly becomes YOUR liability.

📘 What Insurance Actually Covers — and What It Really Doesn’t

Pat explains what’s included in CPA policies, from faulty work coverage to pop-pool enhancements, and why service companies shouldn’t act like builders unless they have builder-level insurance.

💬 Why Your Insurance Agent Should Be Your Second Brain

Steve shares real-world moments where calling Pat saved his ass.
 Pat explains that your agent should act like a consultant, not just a bill collector — especially when weird situations pop up.

🔌 Pools + Water + Electricity + People = Risk

Steve closes with the big truth:
 If you work around water and electricity, you MUST carry insurance.
CPA is a preferred sponsor, but the message is universal:
If you’re touching pools, you need coverage. Period.

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In this episode, Rudy delves into the intricacies of total alkalinity in pool chemistry, explaining its critical role in maintaining pH levels and overall water balance. He discusses the impact of carbon dioxide and borates on pool chemistry, emphasizing the importance of understanding these elements for effective pool maintenance. The conversation highlights the challenges faced by pool service professionals and the need for consistent testing and adjustments to ensure optimal water quality.

takeaways

• Total alkalinity is crucial for stabilizing pH levels in pools.
• High alkalinity can lead to pH drift, making management difficult.
• Carbon dioxide plays a significant role in pH changes in pool water.
• Borates act as a secondary buffer, stabilizing pH against rises.
• Maintaining a balance between alkalinity and borates is essential for water chemistry.
• Regular testing of total alkalinity is important for pool maintenance.
• Understanding the relationship between alkalinity and pH is key to effective pool care.
• The use of borates can enhance chlorine efficiency in pools.
• Pool professionals must adapt to changing chemical dynamics in water.
• A well-balanced pool system leads to predictable water behavior.

Sound Bites

• "Alkalinity is the heart's pacemaker."
• "You're the one keeping families safe."
• "Until next time, be good, be safe."

Chapters

00:00
Understanding Total Alkalinity in Pool Chemistry

04:30
The Impact of Alkalinity on pH Levels

11:15
The Role of Carbon Dioxide and Borates

20:18
Maintaining Balance in Pool Water Chemistry

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In this episode, Andrea and Paulette discuss their week in pool maintenance, including challenges faced due to rain and the importance of maintaining chlorine levels. They announce a design contest for pool-themed apparel and share tragic news about pool safety incidents. The conversation shifts to the skilled trades, highlighting the demand for pool builders and other careers in the industry. They also delve into unique pool designs and the technical challenges of maintaining them, concluding with a discussion on ongoing maintenance issues and a call for listener engagement.

takeaways

• Maintaining chlorine levels during rain is crucial to prevent algae.
• Design contests can engage the community and promote creativity.
• Pool safety is a serious concern, with tragic incidents occurring frequently.
• Skilled trades, especially pool building, are in high demand.
• Unique pool designs can present specific maintenance challenges.
• Technical issues in pool maintenance require innovative solutions.
• Community engagement through social media can provide valuable feedback.
• Regular maintenance is essential for pool longevity and safety.
• Understanding pool chemistry is vital for effective maintenance.
• Sharing experiences can help others in the pool industry.

Sound Bites

• "Stay tuned for next week's update!"
• "Thanks for listening to us!"
• "See you next Tuesday!"

Chapters

00:00
Introduction and Weekly Updates

02:45
Pool Maintenance Challenges

05:29
Design Contest Announcement

08:16
Tragic Pool Incidents and Safety Concerns

10:47
Skilled Trades and Career Opportunities

15:17
Unique Pool Designs and Challenges

17:59
Technical Pool Maintenance Issues

24:26
Conclusion and Future Updates

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takeaways

• Weather can impact work conditions significantly.
• Hiring the right employee requires thorough background checks.
• It's crucial to switch off from work after hours.
• Finding a balance between work and personal life is essential.
• Taking time off is important for mental health.
• Engaging in hobbies can help relieve work stress.
• Establishing boundaries with clients is necessary for well-being.
• Regular holidays can refresh and rejuvenate business owners.
• Mental health resources are available for small business owners.
• Communication with employees about work expectations is vital.

summary

In this episode of Talking Pools, Peter and Shane discuss various topics including the impact of weather on work conditions, the challenges of hiring employees, the importance of switching off after work hours, and maintaining a healthy work-life balance. They emphasize the significance of mental health for small business owners and the necessity of taking time off to recharge. The conversation also touches on the importance of background checks for employees and setting boundaries with clients to ensure well-being.

Sound Bites

• "Weather is atrocious, lots of flooding."
• "It's another billboard for us basically."
• "We had about 50, 55 candidates applying."

Chapters

00:00
Weather Woes and Work Life

14:38
Hiring Challenges and Employee Background Checks

15:26
Switching Off After Work Hours

28:57
Mental Health and Work-Life Balance

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It’s Floc It Friday, and Rudy’s bringing the fire—along with borates, polyquats, and the brutal truth about mustard algae. In what might be our most packed episode to date, Rudy Stankowitz dives headfirst into the evolving mustard algae crisis in 2025—why your go-to treatment (sodium bromide) is now banned, how diatoms are getting smarter, and what you need to do to fight back.

🧪 MUSTARD ALGAE: THE TRUTH REVEALED
Rudy breaks down the biology of mustard algae (a.k.a. diatoms), the real reasons it's thriving, and the environmental shifts that are turning backyard pools into biofilm playgrounds. From Saharan dust storms to phosphate-packed municipal water, nothing is off-limits.

💥 THE SCIENCE-BASED ERADICATION PROTOCOL
No more half-measures. Rudy shares a complete, step-by-step plan for nuking mustard algae—30 ppm chlorine, pH control, borates, polyquats, filter deep-cleans, and follow-up that matters. This isn’t theory. It’s field-proven strategy with real-world results.

⚗️ BORATES & POLYQUATS: THE NEW DYNAMIC DUO
Learn how 50 ppm borates change the game by starving algae, stabilizing pH, and supercharging chlorine—while polyquats lock down surfaces and prevent reattachment. Together, they create a hostile environment algae can’t survive.

🔬 HEAVY METALS & SMART DOSING
Rudy explains how copper, silver, and zinc work together to stop algae at the cellular level—IF you use them right. Chelated vs. non-chelated? Dosing limits? Timing with shock? He covers it all.

📉 EPA Bans & Industry Shifts
With sodium bromide off the table, Rudy urges pros to stop relying on magic fixes and start understanding their water. This is about long-term control, not short-term cover-ups.

🏆 MENTOR OF THE YEAR ANNOUNCEMENT COMING
Rudy teases the top 10 finalists for the 2025 Talking Pools Podcast Mentor of the Year Award. With 67 incredible nominations, it’s clear the future of the industry is in good hands. Finalists will be announced the week of August 1st—with the winner revealed live at the All Things Aquatics Conference in St. Simons Island, Georgia, on September 20th.

🧠 INDUSTRY NEWSFLASHES

• Mark Lum retires after 50 years—Rudy shares his personal tribute.
• Merlin Industries fends off a ransomware attack—here’s what they did right.
• The One Big Beautiful Bill Act becomes law—Rudy dissects how it changes everything from depreciation deductions to healthcare, tax credits, and labor availability.
• Leslie’s Pools stock drops to record lows—should you care? Absolutely. Rudy makes the case for why service pros should be rooting for Leslie’s, not cheering for their collapse.
• What if PoolCorp bought Leslie’s? Rudy explores the possibilities of a full-on market takeover, from chlorine delivery subscriptions to kiosk-based water testing.

📅 KEY DATES TO REMEMBER:

• 🏆 Mentor of the Year Finalists Announced: Week of August 1
• 🏖 All Things Aquatics Conference: September 20, 2025 – St. Simons Island, GA
  Register now: https://square.link/u/ntopwdwe

🎧 LISTEN, LEARN, LEAD.
Subscribe and leave us a review. Your support keeps the mic hot and the pool pros sharp.

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CPO Certification Classes
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the 'How to Get Rid of Algae' handbook
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Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

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In this episode of the Talking Pools podcast, hosts Steve and Wayne discuss various topics related to pool maintenance, including the importance of reliable staffing, the impact of ransomware attacks on the industry, and the significance of effective water testing. They emphasize the need for strong cybersecurity measures, especially in light of recent attacks, and the importance of clear communication with clients regarding pool maintenance expectations. The conversation also touches on the challenges posed by weather conditions and the necessity of understanding pool chemistry for effective maintenance.

takeaways

• Steve shares his recent wedding experience in Turks and Caicos.
• Reliable staffing is crucial for business continuity during personal events.
• Ransomware attacks can affect any business with technology.
• Cybersecurity is essential for protecting business operations.
• Weather significantly impacts pool maintenance and water quality.
• Proper water testing is vital for pool health and safety.
• Communication with clients about pool conditions is key.
• The cost of maintaining pools can vary significantly.
• Understanding pool chemistry is essential for effective maintenance.
• Evaluating client relationships is important for business sustainability.

Sound Bites

• "Congratulations, Steve and Janet."
• "Ransomware affects anyone with tech going on."
• "Is it worth it for me to send a guy out there?"

Chapters

00:00
Celebrating New Beginnings

02:38
The Importance of Reliable Staffing

04:58
Navigating Ransomware Attacks

10:41
The Significance of Proper Pool Maintenance

23:52
Understanding Water Chemistry

30:47
The Dangers of Cheap Testing Kits

36:34
Client Communication and Expectations

42:15
Evaluating Client Relationships

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In this episode, Sarah the Pool Girl dives deep into the world of pool filtration, exploring the pros and cons of cartridge, DE (Diatomaceous Earth), and sand filters. With her signature blend of humor and hands-on know-how, Sarah breaks down the maintenance requirements, efficiency levels, and practical realities of each filter type. She clears up common misconceptions and shares real-world tips that come straight from the deck—not the manual. Along the way, she reflects on the value of community engagement and how personal experience can shape smarter pool care decisions.

Takeaways:

• Cartridge filters are often seen as the most low-maintenance option.
• DE filters provide the finest filtration but require more frequent attention.
• Sand filters are simple to operate but may not offer the same clarity as DE.
• Regular maintenance is crucial to prevent algae and extend equipment life.
• Choosing the right filter depends on your pool's specific needs and usage.
• Sharing experiences and engaging with the pool pro community builds knowledge.
• A multi-cyclone unit can reduce the frequency of cartridge cleanings.
• Ruby Red sand can improve the performance of sand filters.
• Backwashing is key for keeping DE and sand filters working efficiently.
• Personal stories often contain the best troubleshooting wisdom.

Sound Bites:

• "Why are we arguing about filters?"
• "You have to take it apart once a year."
• "I hope you can see and hear me."

Chapters:
00:00 – Introduction to Pool Filters
12:30 – Understanding Cartridge Filters
18:56 – Exploring DE Filters
24:44 – The Case for Sand Filters

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In this lively conversation, Andrea and Paulette share their weekend experiences, focusing on pool maintenance challenges, unexpected wildlife encounters, and community events. They discuss the joys and frustrations of managing pools, including a memorable 4th of July pool adventure and a design contest announcement. The conversation wraps up with thoughts on pool safety and future plans.

takeaways

• The importance of regular pool maintenance and monitoring.
• Unexpected wildlife encounters can lead to memorable experiences.
• Community engagement is vital for pool professionals.
• Celebrating holidays can lead to unexpected tips and rewards.
• Design contests can foster creativity in the pool industry.
• Sharing experiences on social media can enhance community connections.
• Understanding pool chemistry is crucial for maintaining water quality.
• Wildlife rescue stories highlight the connection between nature and pool care.
• Networking with other pool professionals can provide valuable insights.
• Staying informed about local pool news can benefit business.

Sound Bites

• "I posted on my Tik TOK"
• "I just got a baby out of your pool"
• "I cleaned his pool on Wednesdays"

Chapters

00:00
Introduction and Weekend Recap

16:37
Pool Maintenance Challenges

21:57
Wildlife Encounters in Pool Care

27:44
Community Engagement and Pool News

31:51
Environmental Awareness and Pool Care

36:10
Closing Thoughts and Contest Announcement

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In this episode of the Talking Pools podcast, the hosts discuss various aspects of fiberglass pools and skimmer boxes, including their design, safety features, and the challenges of installation and repair. They share insights on the importance of learning in the pool industry and emphasize the need for proper techniques and materials in pool maintenance. The conversation also touches on the significance of teamwork and communication in the trade.

takeaways

• Fiberglass pools have specific design features for safety.
• Skimmer boxes have evolved to prevent accidents.
• Proper installation of skimmer boxes is crucial for functionality.
• Temporary repairs can be made using UV resin, but are not ideal long-term solutions.
• Learning and adapting is essential in the pool industry.
• Using the right materials can prevent future issues in pool maintenance.
• Communication with clients about responsibilities is important.
• Teamwork can enhance efficiency in pool repairs.
• Understanding the components of skimmer boxes aids in effective repairs.
• Proper training and experience are vital for success in the trade.

Sound Bites

• "What do you call a block of fiberglass?"
• "You really are the king of fiberglass, Peter."
• "Never think you're above learning more."

Chapters

00:00
Introduction and Welcome

01:25
Understanding Skimmer Boxes in Fiberglass Pools

16:45
Repairing and Replacing Skimmer Boxes

21:25
Challenges in Skimmer Box Installation

27:15
Learning and Growth in the Pool Industry

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