Episode 256 of the Pool Nation Podcast. Ready to build a pool service business that doesn’t just keep pools blue, but also pays you what you’re worth? This week, Edgar De Jesus, John “JJ Flawless,” and Zac “the Pool Boy” Nicholas get real about what it actually takes to succeed—and stay profitable—in the pool industry.

Join us for a candid, behind-the-scenes roundtable as we break down the Pool Nation Roadmap to Profitability, from rookie mistakes to seasoned strategies.You’ll hear how most pool pros start out obsessed with water chemistry and “splash and dash” service, only to realize—sometimes after years of burnout and struggle—that real success requires learning the business side. The team shares their personal journeys: seven-day workweeks, long hours, undercharging, and near-burnout, plus the exact turning points that helped them finally build thriving, profitable companies.

What you’ll learn in this episode:

• Why most pool pros focus on cleaning and chemistry first, but ignore business basics

• The actual progression from service to repairs—and why so many get stuck

• The hidden dangers of chasing account numbers instead of profit

• Real talk on burnout: what it feels like, and how to pivot before it’s too late

• Why knowing your numbers—from cost per pool to true take-home pay—changes everything

• The “Profit Crossroads:” that critical moment every owner faces (and how to survive it)

• How top pool companies achieve more with fewer pools and fewer headaches

• Why quality of service—and quality of customers—beats quantity every time

• How a shift in mindset, confidence, and education leads to a more enjoyable, sustainable business

• Exclusive preview: Upcoming Pool Nation Boot Camps, Women’s Summit, and the business-focused Pool Nation Conference at the PSP Expo

[00:00:00] — Welcome & July 4th stories: The team shares family time, fireworks, and what it’s like juggling business during the summer rush. [00:03:00] — Deepfakes, AI, and Pool Myths: How fake news (and viral pool “hacks”) are impacting the industry, and why learning to separate fact from fiction matters for pool pros. [00:08:00] — Event Rundown: Key dates and reasons not to miss the hands-on Boot Camp, Pool Nation Awards nominations, Women’s Summit, $10K Pool Pro Challenge, and the only business-focused conference in the industry. [00:16:00] — Why Most Pool Pros Start with Service: Edgar and Zac explain the overwhelming pull toward water chemistry and service basics, and why business training often comes last. [00:23:00] — From Cleaner to Water Manager: John and Zac talk about changing the customer perception from “pool boy” to water management expert, and why it’s crucial for long-term success. [00:26:00] — Graduating to Repairs: The team gets honest about the messy, expensive, and sometimes humbling transition into equipment repairs—and how most pros learn the hard way. [00:31:00] — Where Most Pros Go Wrong: The dangers of underpricing, not paying yourself first, and letting cash flow dictate your business. [00:34:00] — Burnout & The Profit Crossroads: Candid stories of working seven days a week, living on cash flow, and the exact moment each host realized they needed to change. [00:38:00] — How to Build a Profitable Company: Why focusing on fewer, better accounts (and charging what you’re worth) creates freedom, growth, and a healthier work-life balance. [00:49:00] — Quality Over Quantity: A look at how great customers, higher service standards, and business systems can supercharge your income—and enjoyment—without scaling up your headaches. [00:52:00] — What’s Next? A sneak peek at the upcoming “Profit Killers” episode, plus the basic math every pool pro should know to calculate cost of service and profit margin.

Actionable Takeaways:

• Start with your numbers: Knowing your true cost per pool and setting profit targets is the fastest way to build a business that pays you back.

• Don’t chase every account: Not all growth is good growth—sometimes less is more.

• Profit is freedom: When you’re profitable, you can take time off, invest in your team, and actually enjoy your business.

• Mindset matters: The right education and support turns a “pool boy” into a respected business owner.

Don’t forget: 👉 Register for upcoming Pool Nation Boot Camps and the only business-focused Pool Nation Conference at poolnation.com 👉 Nominate your favorite pool pros, trainers, and products at poolnationawards.com (nominations close August 6!) 👉 Download the Pool Man University app for exclusive business and finance courses

In this heartfelt and powerful episode #255 of the Pool Nation Podcast, hosts Edgar De Jesus, John "JJ Flawless," and Zac "The Pool Boy" Nicholas welcome Jay Laughrey, an inspiring figure in the pool industry. Jay opens up about his incredible journey, sharing how his brother Jeff's mentorship shaped him, the devastating loss he faced, and how he turned tragedy into purpose, becoming a beacon of positivity and leadership.

Jay's story is a testament to the power of resilience, mentorship, and community within the pool industry, offering valuable lessons on mental health awareness, communication, and business leadership. This conversation is emotional, impactful, and filled with practical insights for both new and veteran pool professionals.

Episode Highlights & Timestamps:

• 0:00 - Intro & Welcome: Meet your hosts and special guest, Jay Laughrey.

• 10:25 - Jay’s Early Life: From auto shop dreams to computer networking.

• 18:40 - Board Shorts & Checks: How Jay’s brother Jeff entered the pool industry.

• 27:30 - Taking the Plunge: Jay’s first experiences and anxieties as a new pool professional.

• 38:55 - Tragedy Strikes: Jay shares the painful story of losing his brother to suicide and how it reshaped his life.

• 55:50 - Grieving and Healing: Jay discusses the ongoing journey of grief, acceptance, and how he found purpose.

• 1:05:15 - Honoring Jeff’s Legacy: How Jay continues his brother's passion for helping others in the industry.

• 1:15:20 - Embracing Leadership: Jay’s unexpected journey into leadership with IPSA.

• 1:25:40 - Advice for New Pool Pros: Communication tips and taking on challenges confidently.

• 1:35:00 - Final Thoughts & Reflections: The hosts share heartfelt takeaways and gratitude.

Special Thanks to Our Sponsors: SPPA, Blu-Ray XL, Aquastar Pool Products, Natural Chemistry, Raypak, Heritage Pool Supply, Hayward Pool Products, Poolside Tech, Pool Brain, and Nidec

Mental Health Resource: If you or someone you know is struggling with thoughts of suicide, please call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline by dialing 988.

Welcome to Episode 254 of the Pool Nation Podcast, where we’re not just netting and jetting—we’re building a nation of pool pros! In this myth-busting episode, Edgar, John, and Zac tackle the biggest misconceptions in pool water chemistry, breaking down what’s true, what’s not, and what every pool tech needs to know to protect pools, profits, and reputations.

Whether you’re a rookie or a veteran, you’ll get actionable advice, real-world examples, and the latest science on water balance, chemical dosing, salt systems, and more. We also update you on the hottest events of the year, from the Pool Nation Awards to the $10,000 Pool Pro Challenge!

Special thanks to our sponsors: SPPA, BluRay XL, AquaStar Pool Products, Natural Chemistry, Raypak, Heritage Pool Supply, Hayward, Poolside Tech, Pool Brain, Nidec, and US Motors. Their support makes this show—and your education—possible!

[00:00] Pool Nation Intro The signature intro, sponsor shoutouts, and a Texas-sized heat check.

[05:35] Summer Survival Hacks How pros handle the brutal summer heat and keep morale high on the route.

[09:40] Algae Trends & Chemical Cost Warnings Why algae (especially mustard!) is tougher this year, and how to avoid skyrocketing chemical bills.

[13:58] Pool Nation Event Rundown Key dates: Pop-Up Bootcamps, Pool Nation Awards, Women’s Summit, Pool Pro Challenge, and Conference preview.

[20:22] Business Track Sneak Peek Edgar breaks down the ONLY conference track in the industry that’s 100% focused on profitability, business growth, and building high-performing teams.

[26:45] Registration Details & Pro Tips How to claim your seat for business, technical, and hands-on classes—before they’re gone.

[30:30] Pool Chemistry Mythbusters (Rapid Fire Begins!) John takes on the top 10 pool chemistry myths, with Edgar & Zach on standby:

• [31:00] Myth 1: “If chlorine’s good, pH doesn’t matter.”

• [34:10] Myth 2: “Muriatic acid lowers pH and alkalinity equally.”

• [37:45] Myth 3: “Always correct alkalinity before pH.”

• [41:00] Myth 4: “Eyeball your acid or soda ash dose.”

• [43:36] Myth 5: “7.2 to 7.8 pH = always fine.”

• [46:02] Myth 6: “Strong chlorine smell means clean water.”

• [48:25] Myth 7: “If it looks clear, chemistry is fine.”

• [50:04] Myth 8: “You don’t need to test CYA often.”

• [52:32] Myth 9: “Saltwater pools don’t use chlorine.”

• [55:00] Myth 10: “Shock will fix any pool issue.”

[58:10] Final Thoughts & Takeaways Why busting bad info is so important, and how to submit your follow-up questions.

[1:01:20] Event Reminders & Sign Off How to connect with the Pool Nation crew, get registered, and join the fastest-growing pool pro community.