Pool Professionals Podcast

Brian Van Bower sits down with Evan Baard, Master CBP, Senior Landscape Designer and Sales Consultant at Gib-San Pool & Landscape Creations, to discuss how a holistic approach to outdoor living can transform both client experiences and business success. Evan shares how his background in architecture, landscape design, and GENESIS® education has shaped his design philosophy, emphasizing the importance of creating complete outdoor environments rather than simply selling pools. The conversation explores charging for design services, leveraging technology like 3D renderings and AI to improve client communication, maintaining quality through proven systems, and building trust through transparency.

In this episode of the Pool Professionals Podcast, Neil Tarallo, Senior Lecturer at Cornell University and author of The Purposeful Leader, shares practical strategies for growing a stronger pool and spa business. From understanding what truly motivates customers and crafting more effective sales messages to leveraging AI as a business tool and measuring success beyond sales alone, Neil offers actionable insights that can help business owners improve customer relationships, create new opportunities, and drive long-term growth. He also previews the interactive workshops he'll be leading at the upcoming PHTA and GENESIS® MasterMind Summit.

Brian Van Bower sits down with Jeanne Mendelson, Vice President of Education at PHTA, to discuss the evolution of professional education in the pool, spa, and hot tub industry and why investing in leadership and lifelong learning has never been more important. Jeanne shares insights on the growth of GENESIS® education, certification pathways, and the industry's increasing commitment to professionalism, while also providing a preview of the 2026 MasterMind Summit in Phoenix, Arizona. From business-focused presentations and interactive roundtables to networking opportunities and leadership development, this conversation highlights why MasterMind Summit has become a must-attend event for business owners, executives, builders, designers, and service professionals looking to grow their businesses and connect with the industry's top minds.

Sam Pizzo, owner of Avree Custom Pools, shares his journey from designer to leading one of the nation's fastest-growing pool companies. He discusses how the Houston market has evolved, from rising project values to navigating challenging soil conditions and new regulations, while also highlighting the importance of structural engineering and thoughtful planning. Sam dives into the company's shift from referral-based growth to a more balanced marketing strategy that includes social media and digital advertising, and emphasizes the role of customer feedback in continuous improvement. He also shares insights on scaling a business, investing in education like GENESIS®, and expanding into full outdoor living projects, all while maintaining strong processes and a customer-first mindset.

Brian sits down with Colton Gustin, Vice President of AquaTek Pools, to explore how a commitment to education, design, and technical excellence has fueled the company's growth and innovation. Colton shares his journey from working in his family's business to leading a team of over 60 employees, highlighting how GENESIS® education shaped his approach to custom design, hydraulics, and engineering standards.

Brian talks with Lance DiBona, president of Roman Builders, about the importance of proper waterproofing and concrete repair in pool construction. Lance shares practical insights on preventing leaks, using modern materials like chemical grout, and avoiding common industry mistakes such as poor shotcrete application and overuse of hydraulic cement. The conversation highlights how better processes, testing, and education can improve build quality and prevent costly failures.

Brian Van Bower sits down with Alvaro Mendoza, Founder & Executive Chairman of Aquafinity, to explore the evolution of pool technology and the growing role of remote monitoring in both commercial and residential settings. Drawing on over 45 years of experience, Alvaro shares how Aquafinity has expanded from municipal pool chemistry control into advanced systems that monitor and manage everything from pH and chlorine levels to water usage and equipment performance. The conversation highlights how real-time alerts, automation, and data-driven insights are helping pool professionals and homeowners proactively address issues, improve efficiency, and maintain better control, especially for remote or part-time property owners.

Brian sits down with Marina, CEO of urSwim, to discuss the critical importance of water safety and swim education, especially in recognition of National Water Safety Month. Marina shares how urSwim is scaling its mission to teach over one million people to swim through innovative partnerships with residential and commercial pools, focusing on delivering high-quality aquatic staffing rather than owning facilities. The conversation highlights the industry's responsibility to prioritize safety from the earliest stages of pool ownership, the growing demand for services like at-home lessons and lifeguards, and the life-changing impact of teaching both children and adults essential water competency skills.

Brian Van Bower sits down with Dragan Kostadinovic, Master CBP and owner of Beltway Pools, and Robert Moore, Master CBP and Vice President of Beltway Pools, to discuss their journey in the pool industry and how education has shaped their company's success. Serving Northern Virginia, Washington, D.C., and Maryland, the Beltway Pools team shares how GENESIS training and the Master CBP designation improved their approach to construction, planning, and customer relationships. The conversation highlights the value of continuous education, strong systems, and attention to detail on job sites, emphasizing how professionalism and ongoing learning help raise standards across the pool and spa industry.

Brian Van Bower speaks with Andy Kaner, MLA, Master CBP, about the challenges of recruiting and training talent in the aquatic design field. They discuss the importance of technical skills like AutoCAD, the growing role of tools such as Revit, and the steep learning curve for designers entering the specialized world of pool engineering, hydraulics, and construction details. The conversation also explores strategies for attracting new talent and highlights how GENESIS® education and certification can help develop the next generation of aquatic design professionals.

Brian Van Bower is joined by Amanda Annis, president of Ohio Hot Tub and Sauna, to discuss the evolution of the hot tub and swim spa industry and its growing connection to wellness. They explore the shift toward year-round, low-maintenance spa solutions, the rise of features like swim spas and cold plunges, and the importance of safety and water care. The conversation also highlights the value of industry education, advocacy, and the role aquatics can play in improving health and expanding business opportunities.

What happens when you bring together some of the most experienced builders, designers, engineers, and innovators in the pool and spa industry? Over the past 50 episodes of the Pool Professionals Podcast, host Brian Van Bower has done exactly that. This milestone episode celebrates the ideas, insights, and experiences shared by the professionals who are pushing the industry forward—from technical innovation to leadership and craftsmanship. Whether you're a pool builder, designer, or industry professional, these conversations are designed to help you grow, lead, and build better. This episode is both a look back and a reminder that the best conversations are still ahead.

Brian Van Bower sits down with Jeff Henriksen, PHTA Vice President of Industry Affairs and Research, along with Craig Dedrick and Chase Kress of HUB International, to unpack ProAdvantage by PHTA—a new insurance and benefits program built specifically for pool and spa businesses. They explore the risks of generic coverage, the unique liability challenges facing contractors, and how ProAdvantage delivers tailored property & casualty protection, workers' compensation, errors & omissions, and scalable employee benefits through a PEO partnership. They highlight how the program goes beyond insurance; offering risk management, claims advocacy, and workforce solutions to help businesses protect what they've built and grow with confidence.

Brian talks with Mark Dorsey, P.E. about his unexpected path into the pool industry and how engineering-driven problem solving led him to create Primology, a system designed to keep pool equipment elevated, protected, and code-compliant. Mark breaks down the real-world challenges of hydraulics, flooding, and pump priming, especially in hurricane- and flood-prone areas, and shares why smarter equipment placement can save money and prevent damage. The conversation blends technical insight with practical takeaways for builders and designers looking to create more resilient, efficient pool systems.

Brian is joined by Denise Canchola de Tournillon, Vice President of River Flow Pools for a wide-ranging conversation on the powerful intersection of water, wellness, and pool design. Drawing from her background in marine biology, psychology, and two decades with River Flow, Denise explores how moving water, from lazy rivers and swim-in-place systems to residential wellness features, supports both physical exercise and mental health. Together, Brian and Denise highlight how thoughtful pool design can transform aquatic spaces into true wellness environments, reflecting an industry shift toward health-centered, experience-driven design.

Brian sits down with Matthew Ryther, Service Manager at Aqua Pura Pool Service Inc. in California, to explore his 25-year journey in the industry and his recent achievement as a GENESIS® Master CBP. Matt discusses best practices in variable-speed pump selection, energy code compliance, and water-saving strategies such as frequent testing and effective use of pool covers. He highlights the value of continued learning through the newly launched PHTA Center of Excellence, while also offering practical guidance on hiring, hands-on technician training, and elevating service professionalism through manufacturer education and design-informed problem-solving.

Brian sits down with Hunter Gary, Master CBP and owner of H2 Outdoor Living, to explore his journey as a design-only pool professional in Middle Tennessee. They discuss the importance of detailed pre-construction planning, strong client and contractor communication, and the impact of GENESIS® education on elevating design thinking and collaboration. Hunter previews his upcoming 8-hour GENESIS workshop on comprehensive aquatic design. Together they emphasize the value of industry knowledge-sharing, vocational training, mentorship, and continued education.

Brian Van Bower sits down with Scott Frost, President of Heritage Pool Supply Group and 2026 PHTA Chairman of the Board, to discuss the evolution and future of the swimming pool industry. Scott reflects on how the pool has transformed from a luxury product into a staple of backyard living, emphasizing the industry's entrepreneurial spirit, innovation, and commitment to education. The conversation explores PHTA's ongoing efforts in workforce development, advocacy, and safety initiatives such as Step Into Swim, as well as the importance of global collaboration and accessible education through the new Center of Excellence. Scott also highlights the power of grassroots engagement and social media in shaping the industry's image and inspiring the next generation of professionals to get involved, stay informed, and help drive the pool and spa industry forward.

Brian Van Bower talks with Chris Trevathan, Operations Manager at Aquatic Glazing International, about the fascinating world of underwater pool windows. Chris shares his expertise on acrylic installation techniques, from materials and engineering requirements to cost considerations and design challenges. Together, Brian and Chris explore real-world examples highlighting how proper planning, quality materials, and expert installation make all the difference in creating stunning, durable underwater views.

Brian Van Bower sits down with Tracy Bruno, Founder and CEO of Bruno Design Associates, to discuss her journey from stay-at-home mom to successful pool and outdoor living designer. Tracy shares how she built her design-build firm from the ground up, the importance of charging for design work, and how GENESIS® education helped her elevate both her technical expertise and business insight. Together, Brian and Tracy explore the value of fostering collaboration between designers and builders to deliver exceptional results. Tracy also offers insight into her design-build process, client relationships, and the power of combining creativity with construction leadership to create functional, beautiful spaces that stand the test of time.