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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 202

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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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Pentair just dropped a bombshell on pool pros: effective immediately through August 31, 2025, they’re capping purchase orders at 30% above your July–August 2024 levels. Anything above that? Denied.

Pentair caps your buying power. The EPA quietly bans sodium bromide. And bonding? Finally, some clarity.

In this episode, we tackle three major updates shaking the pool industry. First, Pentair announces a sudden cap on purchase orders—effective immediately, you're limited to just 30% above your July–August 2024 volume. We unpack why tariffs are likely behind it and what this could mean for your inventory, pricing, and timelines.

Next, we break down the Pool Industry Council’s landmark study on equipotential bonding. Conducted by SunSmart Engineering, the research confirms that both #8 AWG single wire loops and copper bonding grids reduce 120 VAC fault current to safe levels when installed correctly. This could finally settle the perimeter bonding debate with hard data.

Finally, Rudy Stankowitz exposes the silent EPA regulation that outlawed the outdoor use of sodium bromide. No headlines, no warning—just a quiet shift that leaves pool pros carrying the burden. We discuss bromate risks, industry backlash, and what comes next.

This episode is your no-fluff survival guide to navigating shifting rules, shrinking supplies, and the science that still keeps your pools safe.

• Sodium bromide was quietly outlawed for outdoor use.
• The burden of compliance shifted unexpectedly to pool professionals.
• Regulatory decisions were made without consulting industry experts.
• The label change for sodium bromide has significant implications for pool care.
• Bromate, a byproduct of sodium bromide, poses health risks.
• The EPA's decision was based on precautionary principles due to insufficient data.
• Pool professionals need to educate clients about these changes.
• Alternatives to sodium bromide may come with higher costs and longer treatment times.
• Industry voices must unite to advocate for fair regulations.
• Future studies may provide data to challenge the current ban on sodium bromide.

Sound Bites

• "It was bureaucracy doing what it does best."
• "The human cost of silent regulation."
• "You were never considered in this decision."

Chapters

00:00
The Silent Regulation of Sodium Bromide

01:36
Silver Algaecide: Treatment for Black Algae

02:00
Blu-ray Algaecide: How It Works

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Email us: talkingpools@gmail.com

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In this episode of the Talking Pools podcast, hosts Steve and his co-host discuss their personal lives, including upcoming vacations and wedding plans. They delve into the challenges of client communication in the service industry, emphasizing the importance of setting expectations and maintaining open lines of communication. The conversation also touches on product development in the pool industry, highlighting the need for common sense and practical input from users. The episode concludes with insights on managing client relationships and the significance of being proactive in service delivery.

takeaways

• Steve shares his upcoming cruise to Fiji for his anniversary.
• Jury duty can be a tedious experience, as described by the co-host.
• Setting clear expectations with clients is crucial for service success.
• Communication with clients can prevent misunderstandings and service delays.
• Common sense is often lacking in corporate product development.
• Understanding the volume of a pool is essential for proper chemical treatment.
• The importance of having access keys for service technicians is emphasized.
• Product development should involve feedback from actual users.
• Maintaining open communication with clients can enhance service quality.
• Flexibility in scheduling can improve client satisfaction.

Sound Bites

• "I had jury duty this past week."
• "We need to have a key to do our job."
• "You can't fix that because of protocol."

Chapters

00:00
Introduction and Personal Updates

04:25
Jury Duty and Wedding Plans

08:58
Client Communication and Setting Precedents

16:58
Corporate Experiences and Product Development Challenges

29:21
The Challenges of Pool Equipment Design

31:42
Importance of Accurate Pool Calculations

33:39
User-Centric Product Development

37:11
Innovations in Pool Testing Equipment

42:17
Common Sense in Pool Service Operations

47:09
Communication and Client Expectations

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In this conversation, Sarah discusses the recent regulatory changes affecting pool chemicals, particularly sodium bromide, and its implications for pool maintenance. She shares insights on effective algae treatment techniques, the importance of managing metal levels in pools, and the role of chlorine in controlling algae. Sarah also introduces innovative solutions for metal removal, emphasizing the need for proper pool care and maintenance practices.

takeaways

• Sodium bromide is now restricted for outdoor pools due to safety concerns.
• Algae treatment requires a combination of chemicals and proper techniques.
• Managing metal levels in pools is crucial to prevent staining and other issues.
• Chlorine levels must be monitored to effectively control algae growth.
• Innovative products like 'See You Later' pods can help remove metals from pool water.
• Regular maintenance is essential for optimal pool health and safety.
• Copper can lead to staining if not managed properly in pool water.
• High chlorine levels can be dangerous and should be monitored closely.
• Using silver algalidine can be an effective way to combat black algae.
• Sometimes unconventional methods are necessary to restore pool clarity.

Sound Bites

• "It helps kill bacteria and algae."
• "You gotta take care of your pool."
• "Don't just throw metals on metals."

Chapters

00:00
Falling into the Pool: A Humorous Start

00:45
Understanding Algaecides: The Basics

01:22
Sodium Bromide: Usage and Effects

02:12
Silver Algaecide: Treatment for Black Algae

02:35
Blu-ray Algaecide: How It Works

11:48
Maintaining Pool Health: Regular Care and Treatment

13:14
Managing Copper Levels: Risks and Solutions

14:48
Preventing Green Hair: The Copper Connection

15:50
Metal Removal Strategies: Effective Solutions

17:38
Extreme Measures: High Chlorine Treatments

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Email us: talkingpools@gmail.com