Text Rudy Now!

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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Email us: talkingpools@gmail.com

Text Rudy Now!

In this lively and hilariously honest episode, Andrea and Paulette dive headfirst into the controversial topic of whether pool pros should give Christmas cards to their clients. Is it a warm gesture in the spirit of the season, or does it come off as a not-so-subtle nudge for a holiday bonus?

The discussion is equal parts comedic and thought-provoking, as the duo weighs the pros and cons:

• Festive Cheer: Andrea argues that a simple Christmas card can spread goodwill, show appreciation for loyal customers, and even keep your company top of mind during the offseason. It's a touch of humanity in a business world that's often all business.
• Cringe Factor: Paulette counters with her trademark wit, calling out how some cards feel less like genuine holiday cheer and more like "I'm your friendly pool cleaner—don’t forget to leave me an envelope of cash!"
• The Fine Line: Together, they explore where the line between festive and greedy might blur. They discuss how tone and timing play a role: Does the card include a subtle hint like “thank you for your support this year”? Or is it just a genuine "Happy Holidays" without strings attached?

The conversation heats up as they share stories from their own experiences, including clients who’ve given over-the-top bonuses and others who’ve bristled at even a small holiday gesture. They wrap up by asking listeners to weigh in: Is a Christmas card a smart move for business, or does it risk making pool pros look desperate for a little extra cash?

What do you think? Whether you're on Team Festive or Team Cringe, Andrea and Paulette bring their trademark humor and insights to a debate that every pool pro has likely mulled over at least once.

Support the show

Thank you so much for listening! You can find us on social media:

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Email us: talkingpools@gmail.com

Text Rudy Now!

Episode Highlights

This lively episode dives into the challenges and strategies pool service professionals face during peak season, focusing on weather-related scheduling, managing customer demands, and maintaining a healthy work-life balance. With their signature humor and camaraderie, Peter, Lee, and Shane share personal anecdotes and practical advice, making for an engaging and insightful listen.

Key Topics Discussed

1. Weather Challenges in Pool Servicing
   • Shane recounts dealing with relentless rain, sharing how it affects daily operations and customer expectations.
   • Strategies for addressing bad weather, such as focusing on chemical checks and deferring non-urgent tasks.
2. The Importance of Flexible Scheduling
   • Peter and Lee discuss the benefits of keeping Mondays and Fridays open for emergency jobs, equipment installations, and public holidays.
   • Lee explains her system of dedicating non-service days for flexibility, technician vehicle maintenance, and team-building exercises.
3. Learning to Say No
   • Peter and Shane share stories of setting boundaries with demanding customers, including charging premium fees for last-minute or out-of-area jobs.
   • Emphasis on the value of maintaining a balanced schedule and avoiding burnout.
4. Handling Customer Emergencies
   • Lee introduces the concept of an "ID10T Tax" for clients who call with preventable "emergencies."
   • The trio discusses the importance of educating customers on planning ahead and charging for rushed services to discourage poor planning.
5. Christmas Party and Team-Building Ideas
   • Lee and Shane suggest creative ideas for staff celebrations, such as escape rooms, comedy nights, and team sports.
   • Peter reveals his unique plan to attend a barbecue masterclass with his team, tying it to their shared interest in grilling.
6. Balancing Regular Servicing and Specialty Work
   • Peter shares his business model focused on troubleshooting and equipment replacement, contrasting it with Shane and Lee's emphasis on regular servicing.
   • Lee highlights the importance of leveraging existing customer relationships for upselling opportunities.
7. Cultural and Linguistic Fun
   • A humorous debate ensues over the word "furtherest," with Peter playfully proving his point about correct usage.
8. Listener Interaction and Wrap-Up
   • The hosts invite listeners to share their Christmas party ideas and topic requests, fostering community engagement.

Conclusion

This episode is a mix of humor, practical advice, and real-life anecdotes that resonate with pool service professionals navigating the busiest time of the year. The hosts’ lighthearted banter and deep industry insights make it a must-listen for anyone in the field. Whether you're looking for tips on handling last-minute customer demands or planning the perfect staff party, this episode delivers.

Support the show

Thank you so much for listening! You can find us on social media:

• Facebook
• Instagram
• Tik Tok

Email us: talkingpools@gmail.com