E-202 Pool Nation Podcast: How PHTA is Transforming the Pool Industry!

Breaking Down Barriers: When Pool Pros Meet Industry Leaders

What happens when the high-energy hosts of Pool Nation Podcast meet the executive leadership of the Pool and Hot Tub Alliance (PHTA)? You get an unexpectedly fun, insightful conversation that reveals how the pool industry is evolving beyond the traditional 'netting and jetting' approach into a profession driven by education, collaboration, and genuine passion for excellence.

In episode 202 of the Pool Nation Podcast, hosts Edgar DeJazuz, John 'JJ Flawless,' and Zack 'the Pool Boy' Nicholas welcomed three powerhouse leaders from PHTA: Sabina Hickman, Jeannie Mendelson, and Jeff Henriksen. What started as a formal interview quickly transformed into an energetic discussion about the future of pool service, the importance of professional development, and how organizations are coming together to elevate the entire industry.

The Human Side of Industry Leadership

One of the most refreshing aspects of this episode was discovering the genuine personalities behind the PHTA leadership. Edgar DeJazuz captured this perfectly when he reflected on his initial expectations:

When we think of the majority, when we think of PHTA, you guys play a big huge role in this industry and you guys are like an entity up above... sometimes you draw conclusions and you think that hey, it's going to be strictly... all business, no talk, that kind of stuff.

— Edgar DeJazuz, Pool Nation Podcast

The reality proved quite different. The PHTA team not only engaged in serious industry discussions but also joined the hosts for dinner and even made a late-night trip to Bucky's - a testament to their approachable leadership style and genuine commitment to connecting with industry professionals at all levels.

Jeannie Mendelson, who brings 30 years of association experience to PHTA, emphasized the unique culture she's found in the pool industry, noting how it's 'just full of good people, family businesses' and expressing enthusiasm about the industry's 'thirst for education.'

Education as the Foundation for Industry Transformation

Throughout the conversation, one theme emerged consistently: education is the cornerstone of professionalizing the pool industry. The PHTA team's passion for raising industry standards through comprehensive training programs was evident in every exchange.

Jeff Henriksen, who joined PHTA after spending time in the HVAC industry, brought a valuable outside perspective:

I've been here about a year and one quarter, a year and three months and just really opened my eyes to the scale of this industry... from manufacturing to retail, to service, to builders it's just amazing how big the industry is.

— Jeff Henriksen, Pool Nation Podcast

This cross-industry experience allows PHTA to incorporate best practices from other trades while addressing the unique challenges facing pool professionals. The organization's educational initiatives aren't just about technical skills - they're about elevating the entire perception of pool service from a seasonal job to a year-round profession.

Sabina Hickman, who has been with PHTA for almost five years since the organization's unification, highlighted the industry's evolution:

The passion, the involvement from the industry, the desire to raise professionalism... we've had a lot of fun these past five years.

— Sabina Hickman, Pool Nation Podcast

Collaboration Over Competition: A New Industry Paradigm

Perhaps the most significant insight from this episode was the shift toward collaboration within the pool industry. Edgar DeJazuz noted how his perspective on industry relationships has evolved:

It makes me believe and it makes me feel more positive about our industry and where we're going and the changes that we've seen in the past and primarily the last few years where everybody's coming together and understanding we have a common goal.

— Edgar DeJazuz, Pool Nation Podcast

This collaborative spirit represents a fundamental shift from the fragmented approach of previous decades. Instead of organizations working in silos, there's a growing recognition that the industry's success depends on everyone working together - manufacturers, retailers, service providers, and trade organizations.

The Pool Nation team and PHTA leadership discovered numerous synergies during their discussions, particularly around their shared mission of serving pool professionals and elevating industry standards. This alignment suggests a future where different organizations complement rather than compete with each other's efforts.

Practical Programs and Real-World Impact

Beyond philosophical discussions about industry transformation, the conversation revealed concrete programs and initiatives that PHTA is implementing to create meaningful change. The organization's approach focuses on practical, actionable education that pool professionals can immediately apply in their businesses.

The discussion touched on various upcoming programs and initiatives, though the leaders were careful not to reveal too much before official announcements. What became clear is that PHTA is developing comprehensive educational pathways that address both technical skills and business acumen.

The emphasis on business education is particularly noteworthy. Many pool professionals excel at the technical aspects of their work but struggle with pricing, customer relations, and business growth. PHTA's recognition of this gap and commitment to addressing it through targeted education demonstrates their holistic approach to industry development.

Looking Forward: The Future of Pool Professionalism

The energy and optimism displayed throughout this episode suggest that the pool industry is entering a new era of professionalism and collaboration. The combination of established organizations like PHTA and grassroots initiatives like Pool Nation creates multiple pathways for professionals to advance their skills and careers.

The conversation also highlighted the importance of events and networking opportunities in building industry community. From PHTA's educational programs to Pool Nation's upcoming Women's Summit and annual conference, these gatherings serve as catalysts for both learning and relationship building.

The industry's growing recognition of diversity and inclusion, evidenced by initiatives like the Women's Summit featuring speakers like Sabina Hickman, signals a maturation that will attract new talent and perspectives to the field.

Conclusion: A Industry United in Purpose

Episode 202 of the Pool Nation Podcast provided more than just entertainment - it offered a glimpse into the future of the pool industry. The natural chemistry between the hosts and PHTA leadership, combined with their shared commitment to elevating pool professionals, demonstrates that the industry is indeed transforming.

The key takeaway from this episode is that change is happening not through mandate or regulation, but through genuine collaboration between passionate professionals who share a common vision. When industry leaders can sit down, share a meal, make a late-night trip to Bucky's, and still have meaningful conversations about professional development, it signals an industry culture that values both results and relationships.

As the pool industry continues to grow and evolve, partnerships between organizations like PHTA and Pool Nation will be crucial in ensuring that growth translates into genuine professionalism, better service for customers, and more rewarding careers for pool professionals at every level.

Episode Chapters

• 00:00 Introduction and Host Banter
• 05:30 Meeting the PHTA Leadership Team
• 12:15 First Impressions and Industry Collaboration
• 18:45 PHTA's Mission and Background
• 25:30 Education and Professional Development
• 32:10 Upcoming Events and Programs
• 38:20 Industry Transformation Discussion