Talking Pools Podcast
If you’ve ever stared at a test kit like it personally insulted your family… welcome home.
Talking Pools Podcast is the pool industry’s “pull up a chair” show—part shop talk, part field manual, part therapy session—built for people who actually live on pool decks: commercial operators, service techs, builders, facility managers, and anyone responsible for water that can’t afford to go sideways. The network was created to level up the pool industry with real-world conversations on water chemistry, filtration, troubleshooting, construction, safety, and the business side of keeping pools open and budgets intact.
Here’s the hook: it’s not theory-first. It’s experience-first—a roster of seasoned pros (with 250+ years of combined “been there, fixed that” wisdom) turning complicated problems into practical moves you can use the same day. And it’s not one voice, one vibe, one corner of the industry: it’s a network of shows designed to reflect how diverse this work really is—different regions, different specialties, different personalities.
Also worth saying out loud: women aren’t “special guests” here—they’re on the mic as hosts, from the beginning, with an intentionally balanced roster. That matters, because the best ideas in this industry don’t come from one lane—they come from the whole road.
If you want a podcast that can make you laugh and make you better at what you do—without pretending the job is easier than it is—Talking Pools is the one you queue up before the first stop, and keep on when the day starts getting weird.
Talking Pools Podcast
Wayne and Steve Dive into Revenue Streams
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In this episode of the Wayne and Steve Podcast from the Talking Pools Podcast, the duo explores strategies for increasing revenue streams within the pool service industry. With Steve fresh off two weeks of fieldwork, he reflects on the physical demands of the job, offering a heartfelt shout-out to pool technicians who endure the grind daily.
The episode shifts focus to expanding income beyond basic pool maintenance. Steve highlights the importance of offering high-end services like automation installations, salt cell systems, and robotic pool cleaners to enhance customer satisfaction and increase profits. Both hosts emphasize the significance of clear contracts to delineate service boundaries and ensure profitability, with Steve stressing the value of upselling premium maintenance plans tailored to unique customer needs, such as pools with new plaster or persistent issues like algae.
The hosts also delve into the benefits of diversifying service offerings, including repairs, leak detection, and equipment installation. They advocate building partnerships with specialists in areas like plastering and leak detection, allowing pool companies to subcontract complex tasks and generate revenue passively. Steve underscores the importance of networking with distributors and repair professionals to establish mutually beneficial relationships.
Throughout the episode, Steve and Wayne discuss practical challenges like pricing transparency, managing customer expectations, and addressing the impact of online retail on parts sales. They applaud companies like Fluidra for protecting pricing integrity, which helps service providers maintain profitability.
The conversation ends on an optimistic note, with the hosts encouraging listeners to embrace entrepreneurship and recognize the pool industry’s potential for unlimited financial growth. They promise a follow-up episode to dive deeper into creative revenue opportunities, inviting listeners to share their own strategies via email for a chance to be featured.
Key Takeaways:
- Diversify Services: Offer premium plans, repairs, and specialty services to increase revenue.
- Build Strategic Partnerships: Collaborate with specialists to expand capabilities and profitability.
- Leverage Technology: Sell and install automation systems, salt cells, and robotic cleaners.
- Protect Pricing: Use strategies to counteract the challenges posed by online retail.
- Think Long-Term: Scale businesses to create sustainable income without over-reliance on physical labor.
Wayne and Steve leave listeners with a call to action: explore additional revenue streams and share ideas for future discussions.
LaMotte CompanyLaMotte Company is a leading manufacturer of water quality testing products & pool test kits
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Email us: talkingpools@gmail.com
In this episode of the Wayne and Steve Podcast from the Talking Pools Podcast, the duo explores strategies for increasing revenue streams within the pool service industry. With Steve fresh off two weeks of fieldwork, he reflects on the physical demands of the job, offering a heartfelt shout-out to pool technicians who endure the grind daily.
The episode shifts focus to expanding income beyond basic pool maintenance. Steve highlights the importance of offering high-end services like automation installations, salt cell systems, and robotic pool cleaners to enhance customer satisfaction and increase profits. Both hosts emphasize the significance of clear contracts to delineate service boundaries and ensure profitability, with Steve stressing the value of upselling premium maintenance plans tailored to unique customer needs, such as pools with new plaster or persistent issues like algae.
The hosts also delve into the benefits of diversifying service offerings, including repairs, leak detection, and equipment installation. They advocate building partnerships with specialists in areas like plastering and leak detection, allowing pool companies to subcontract complex tasks and generate revenue passively. Steve underscores the importance of networking with distributors and repair professionals to establish mutually beneficial relationships.
Throughout the episode, Steve and Wayne discuss practical challenges like pricing transparency, managing customer expectations, and addressing the impact of online retail on parts sales. They applaud companies like Fluidra for protecting pricing integrity, which helps service providers maintain profitability.
The conversation ends on an optimistic note, with the hosts encouraging listeners to embrace entrepreneurship and recognize the pool industry’s potential for unlimited financial growth. They promise a follow-up episode to dive deeper into creative revenue opportunities, inviting listeners to share their own strategies via email for a chance to be featured.
Key Takeaways:
- Diversify Services: Offer premium plans, repairs, and specialty services to increase revenue.
- Build Strategic Partnerships: Collaborate with specialists to expand capabilities and profitability.
- Leverage Technology: Sell and install automation systems, salt cells, and robotic cleaners.
- Protect Pricing: Use strategies to counteract the challenges posed by online retail.
- Think Long-Term: Scale businesses to create sustainable income without over-reliance on physical labor.
Wayne and Steve leave listeners with a call to action: explore additional revenue streams and share ideas for future discussions.
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You said:
reformat Wayne & Steve's transcript above
ChatGPT said:
ChatGPT
Certainly! Below is a reformatted version of Wayne and Steve's transcript, keeping the essence of their conversation while presenting it in a more concise and organized narrative format.
Talking Pools Podcast: Wayne & Steve Discuss Revenue Streams for Pool Service Businesses
Introduction
Wayne:
Happy Thursday, everybody! It’s the Wayne and Steve podcast from Talking Pools. We’re diving into a topic inspired by Rudy’s recent discussion on the importance of diversifying revenue streams. I’ll hand it over to Steve, who has tons of insights to share. Steve, take it away!
Steve:
Thanks, Wayne. Before we dive into it, I just want to give a big shoutout to all the pool technicians out there. My service manager has been away, so I’ve been back in the field for two weeks. Let me tell you, it’s exhausting! It really reminded me of the physical toll this job takes, and I have so much respect for those doing it day in and day out.
The Core of the Business: Bread and Butter Revenue
Steve:
Let’s start by grounding ourselves—weekly service is our bread and butter. But if that’s all you’re offering, you’re leaving money on the table. Pool service isn’t just about cleaning pools; there’s a world of additional revenue streams out there. You need to offer more than just the basics.
Wayne:
That’s a great point. Especially when you factor in repairs, add-on services, and even premium maintenance packages, there’s real potential to boost income while providing more value to your clients.
High-End Maintenance Packages
Steve:
A high-end maintenance package is a great starting point. For example, we include things like enzyme treatments and clarifiers as part of our premium service. It’s about showing customers the added value we bring to their pool care.
Wayne:
And those extras, like turning on waterfalls or checking heaters monthly, should be spelled out in the contract. Customers need to know what they’re paying for and why it’s worth it.
Steve:
Exactly. It’s also about offering services like sequestering agents for pools with high metal content. These aren’t fixes—they’re preventative measures. Educating clients on what these products do helps them see the value in paying for premium care.
Selling Equipment and Upselling Repairs
Steve:
Two of the easiest ways to boost revenue are selling salt cells and robotic cleaners. A pool with these looks like it’s been serviced daily, even if it hasn’t. Plus, repairs are another untapped revenue stream for many. Whether it’s heaters, automation systems, or leak detection, you need to either learn these skills or partner with someone who can.
Wayne:
That’s crucial. Partnering with specialists lets you offer more services without overextending yourself. It’s about building those relationships—whether it’s with a plasterer, a leak detection expert, or even other single pollers.
Challenges with Pricing and Online Retail
Steve:
Pricing can be tricky, especially with clients finding parts online for less. For instance, a flu sensor on Amazon might be $12, but at the distributor, it’s $60. Explaining the value of buying through a professional is key. Sometimes, the cheaper option is outdated or unreliable.
Wayne:
Exactly. Expired chemicals or outdated equipment are common pitfalls of online shopping. As professionals, we need to educate our clients and show them why working with us is the better choice.
Industry Opportunities and Entrepreneurship
Steve:
This industry has so much potential for growth. Whether it’s selling high-ticket items like pool covers or offering niche services like waterproofing, the opportunities are endless. The key is finding what you’re good at and building from there.
Wayne:
Absolutely. And as you grow, think long-term. At some point, you might want to step away from the physical labor and focus on managing your business. Scaling your operations lets you maintain income while lightening your workload.
Closing Thoughts
Wayne:
We’re just scratching the surface on this topic. If you have ideas or insights into revenue streams, email us at talkingpoolsmail.com. We’d love to hear from you and might even feature your suggestions in a future episode!
Steve:
There’s no limit to what you can achieve in this business if you’re willing to adapt and grow. Thanks for tuning in, everyone. See you next Thursday!
Wayne:
Have a great week, everyone. Take care!
