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Talking Pools Podcast
Forget chasing chlorine headaches and battling algae wars alone. The Talking Pools Podcast is your weekly escape from pool purgatory, where 250+ years of combined pro wisdom explodes into actionable hacks, mind-blowing tips, and secrets so ancient they make Poseidon jealous.
Think of it as your weekly poolside braintrust, fueled by eight seasoned pros, each a rockstar in their own aquatic lane. Got a filtration fiasco? Chemical conundrum? Equipment enigma? No problem. We've got a host for that:
- The Tech Titan: Unravels the mysteries of pumps, filters, and gizmos that make pools tick (without the electrical shocks).
- The Chem Crusader: Your personal alchemist, whipping up potion-perfect water balance with a dash of science and a sprinkle of magic.
- The Maintenance Maverick: From tile tricks to algae assassins, he's got the lowdown on keeping your pool looking like a liquid emerald palace.
- The Customer Calmer: Smooths ruffled feathers faster than a pool noodle bouquet, turning hangry homeowners into poolside pals.
But Talking Pools isn't just about technical wizardry. It's about camaraderie, the shared language of pool pros who've seen it all, from exploding filters to synchronized swimming squirrels (no, really, we had an episode!).
Every week, you'll:
- Steal game-changing secrets: Learn pro-grade hacks to make you the "Pool Whisperer" in your market
- Laugh until you spit out your piña colada: These guys are as witty as they are wise, turning pool problems into poolside punchlines.
- Get ahead of the curve: Stay on top of industry trends and tech before your competitors even smell the chlorine.
- Feel the love (and the sunshine): Remember why you got into this business in the first place – the joy of creating backyard oases where memories are made.
So, ditch the Drano, grab your headphones, and dive into the Talking Pools Podcast. It's your weekly dose of poolside wisdom, laughter, and community. We'll see you on the flip side!
P.S. Subscribe now and you might just win a case of pool party essentials (floaties not included, sorry squirrels).
P.P.S. Tell your pool-loving friends – sharing knowledge is like sharing sunscreen, it protects everyone!
Talking Pools Podcast
Retail Is Not Dead, with Ryan Walker
In this episode, Natalie Hood sits down with Ryan Walker to unpack how retail sales in the pool industry have evolved over the last two decades—and what dealers, builders, and retailers need to understand to stay competitive today.
From the rise of online shopping and social media influence to changing homeowner expectations and shifting economic realities, this conversation challenges long-held myths about retail, sales strategy, and customer behavior. Ryan draws on 20 years of experience across lifeguarding, distribution, manufacturing representation, and national sales to explain why the future of pool retail isn’t about fighting online competition—but learning how to work alongside it.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode
Retail Isn’t Dead—It’s Evolving
Ryan explains why online sales are no longer the enemy of brick-and-mortar stores and how retailers can use online visibility as a tool rather than a threat. Homeowners today expect convenience, information, and options—and stores that adapt win loyalty.
Why Personal Service Still Wins
Despite access to Amazon, TikTok, and Instagram, customers are still willing to pay more for expertise, education, and a trusted relationship. Retailers who focus on solving problems—not just selling products—stand out.
The Power of Analytics, Algorithms, and Social Media
From phones “listening” to user behavior to influencers shaping purchasing decisions, Natalie and Ryan break down how digital marketing now drives customer expectations before they ever walk into a store.
Selling the Solution, Not the Product
Ryan emphasizes that customers don’t need technical jargon—they need someone who understands their pain points. Whether it’s water loss, recurring algae, or sanitizer confusion, great sales start with the right questions.
Breaking the ‘We’ve Always Done It This Way’ Mindset
Long-standing habits can quietly cap growth. This episode explores how flexibility, testing new ideas, and being open to global trends can increase profitability without sacrificing integrity.
Why Dealers Must Show What’s Possible
Just like car dealerships show upgraded models, pool professionals should present options—even if the customer thinks they want the “basic” version. Many homeowners don’t know what’s available until someone shows them.
Economic Reality Has Changed
From rising costs to dual-income households and post-COVID income shifts, the conversation highlights why price sensitivity isn’t what it used to be—and why experience and value matter more than shaving a few dollars off the ticket.
Key Takeaways
• Online competition is unavoidable—but it can be leveraged
• Education and trust justify premium pricing
• Customers want guidance, not resistance
• Social media shapes expectations before the sale
• Retail success depends on adaptability and curiosity
• Selling without passion turns stores into warehouses
About the Guest
Ryan Walker brings more than 20 years of industry experience, starting as a lifeguard and facility manager before moving into distribution, manufacturing representation, and national sales. His career spans multiple climates, pool types, and retail models, giving him a wide-angle view of what works—and what doesn’t—in today’s poo
Thank you so much for listening! You can find us on social media:
Email us: talkingpools@gmail.com
