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
Black Algae: Headache or Hero
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In this episode of the Talking Pools podcast, Rudy delves into the challenges faced by pool professionals, with a particular focus on the often misunderstood cyanobacteria, commonly referred to as black algae. He discusses the importance of accurate identification and treatment strategies, emphasizing the need for education and proper water testing. Rudy also explores innovative solutions, such as aluminum sulfate and the potential of living concrete infused with cyanobacteria, for structural repairs. The episode concludes with a roundup of industry news and an exploration of the future of pool maintenance and construction.
takeaways
- Cyanobacteria is often misidentified as algae, leading to ineffective treatments.
- Effective treatment requires understanding the biology of cyanobacteria.
- Aluminum sulfate can help reduce cyanuric acid and assist in removing cyanobacteria.
- Education and proper water testing are essential for maintaining a pool.
- Environmental factors, such as light and nutrients, significantly affect the growth of cyanobacteria.
- Innovative technologies, such as living concrete, could revolutionize pool repairs.
- The pool industry needs to adapt to new scientific findings about cyanobacteria.
- Regular testing of water quality is essential for effective pool management.
- Cyanobacteria can thrive in high-nutrient environments, making prevention a key strategy.
- The future of pool maintenance may involve biogenic solutions for structural issues.
Sound Bites
- "Education is your best weapon."
- "You're a prokaryotic hitman."
- "The future is coming and it's squishy."
Chapters
00:00
Introduction to Pool Pros and Their Challenges
08:39
Effective Strategies for Combatting Cyanobacteria
15:15
The Importance of Water Testing and Education
20:18
Trade Mag Roundup: Industry Insights
37:50
Conclusion: Embracing Innovation in Pool Maintenance
Thank you so much for listening! You can find us on social media:
Email us: talkingpools@gmail.com
