Podcast appearances and mentions of James McDonald

Interview with James McDonald, President & CEO of Kootenay Silver Inc.Our previous interview: https://www.cruxinvestor.com/posts/kootenay-silver-ktn-high-grade-mexican-silver-explorer-and-developerRecording date: 9th July 2025Kootenay Silver (TSXV:KTN) represents a compelling investment opportunity in the emerging silver bull market, combining proven management expertise with high-grade Mexican silver assets positioned for strategic acquisition. The company's recent maiden resource estimate at its flagship Columba project demonstrates institutional-quality assets with significant expansion potential.The 54 million ounce maiden resource at Columba, grading 284 g/t silver, establishes Kootenay Silver among the higher-grade silver developers globally. The resource concentration in three primary vein systems, particularly the D Vein containing over 30 million ounces across 1,200 meters of strike length, provides operational advantages for potential future mining scenarios. Combined with the company's broader portfolio exceeding 300 million ounces across multiple Mexican properties, this scale positions Kootenay Silver as a significant silver platform.Columba's geological setting within a preserved volcanic caldera provides exceptional exploration upside. The minimal surface erosion has preserved the vein system from top to bottom, while drilling has confirmed strong mineralization extending to 540 meters depth with potential for significantly greater vertical extent. The 4-kilometer by 3-kilometer vein system footprint compares favorably to established Mexican silver districts, suggesting district-scale potential.CEO James McDonald's experience co-founding Alamos Gold provides credibility for value creation. The Alamos success story—acquiring 2.2 million ounces for $12.5 million during the gold market bottom and achieving commercial production within six years—demonstrates management's ability to identify and develop undervalued assets. Kootenay Silver employs a similar strategy, advancing discoveries to preliminary economic assessment stage before selling to major mining companies, reducing capital requirements while maintaining upside exposure.The company's $20 million financing enables systematic resource expansion through 50,000 meters of drilling over 2025. The initial 30,000 meters target "low-hanging fruit" by expanding known mineralized zones, providing high-probability success and regular news flow. Management has identified clear milestones, targeting 100 million ounces to attract strategic interest, with serious acquisition discussions typically beginning around 75 million ounces.Kootenay Silver benefits from favorable silver market dynamics as prices break out from multi-year trading ranges. Supply constraints from declining ore grades and limited new discoveries combine with accelerating industrial demand from renewable energy, electric vehicles, and 5G infrastructure. Monetary demand intensifies as central banks maintain expansionary policies and geopolitical tensions drive diversification from traditional assets.Risk-Adjusted ReturnsThe company has de-risked key development factors through established surface access agreements, proximity to major infrastructure, and favorable political developments in Mexico. The drilling-focused strategy requires continued capital access, though the recent financing provides runway through 2025's critical expansion phase.Kootenay Silver offers investors leveraged exposure to silver's emerging bull market through a proven management team advancing high-grade assets toward strategic acquisition. The combination of exceptional resource quality, systematic development approach, and favorable market timing creates multiple pathways for value creation as the company advances toward the scale thresholds that attract major mining company interest.View Kootenay Silver's company profile: https://www.cruxinvestor.com/companies/kootenay-silver-incSign up for Crux Investor: https://cruxinvestor.com

What happens when a nuclear chemist pivots into industrial water treatment? In this episode, host Trace Blackmore is joined by Dr. Jasbir Gill, President at Water Energy Solutions Inc, whose career spans five decades of breakthrough innovations in water chemistry and sustainability. From developing predictive modeling systems to creating new polymer standards, Dr. Gill shares how scientific rigor and practical experience came together to shape tools still used today.   “We were not just saving water—we were calculating the true cost of energy and environmental impact.” From Nuclear Chemistry to Water Treatment  Dr. Gill begins by tracing his academic roots in nuclear and inorganic chemistry from IIT Roorkee, followed by early post-doctoral research in Italy and England. While initially headed for a career in nuclear separations, a chance encounter rerouted his path to the U.S., where his work at SUNY Buffalo introduced him to the intricacies of water chemistry. That foundational knowledge laid the groundwork for his transformative career at Calgon, and later Nalco.   The Birth of CalGuard: Predictive Modeling Ahead of Its Time  In one of the most compelling parts of the episode, Dr. Gill walks us through the creation of CalGuard—an award-winning predictive modeling tool that transformed how chemical dosing and scaling behavior are calculated. Integrating thermodynamic principles, field data, and statistical regression, the CalGuard model helped standardize customized water treatment programs across regional chemistries and system variables.   Defining the Water-Energy-Carbon Nexus  A highlight of Dr. Gill's later career came when he began asking hard questions about sustainability. How much energy is consumed per gallon of water saved? What's the carbon footprint of that savings? He shares compelling stories of his work with nuclear power plants, showing how acid use for pH control contributed to CO₂ emissions—insights that later shaped his independent firm, Water Energy Solutions.   From Chromate to Phosphate: Reinventing Treatment Chemistry  When chromate was phased out of industrial water treatment, Dr. Gill was at the forefront of developing phosphate-based alternatives. He recounts the invention of the AAM 60/40 copolymer in his lab—now an industry standard—and how field trials and real-time testing guided product refinement. This section underscores how practical chemistry, adaptability, and client trust converge to move the industry forward.   The J-Factor and Real-World Impact  Dr. Gill explains his invention of the J-factor—a conversion metric allowing new inhibitors to be benchmarked against legacy ones. Developed through comparative field tests and algorithmic modeling, the J-factor exemplifies the intersection of empirical science and industry need, with wide applicability even decades later.   Final Reflections: Leadership, Teamwork, and Lifelong Curiosity  In the closing segment, Dr. Gill reflects on the importance of teamwork, adaptability, and focusing on one's work amid organizational change. His stories—from field trips in Montana to building mobile labs for rapid field testing—reveal the human side of technical innovation.  This episode is more than a lesson in chemistry—it's a case study in innovation, leadership, and long-term thinking. Dr. Gill's insights remind us that successful water treatment isn't just about products; it's about persistence, systems thinking, and data-driven action.  Share this episode with colleagues committed to impactful, sustainable water management. Stay engaged, keep learning, and continue scaling up your knowledge!    Timestamps  08:00 – Upcoming Events for Water Treatment Professionals   12:44 – Water You Know with James McDonald  15:35 – Interview with Dr. Jasbir Gill and his career origins in nuclear chemistry  17:05 – Transition to water chemistry and first role at Calgon in 1979  33:49 — Importance of J Factors in dosing and treatment conversions 49:16 — Creation of the AAMP copolymer and phosphate compatibility    Quotes “Focus on your project… your work will carry you through every organization.”  “I had no idea that J Factors came from Dr. Gill—and they actually stood for his first name, Jasbir.”  “You never know what you're doing to help someone and what that's going to create.”    Connect with Dr. Jasbir Gill  Phone: +1 630-346-6141  Email: thewesinc@gmail.com  Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasbir-gill-07766630/ Click HERE to Download Episode's Discussion Guide    Guest Resources Mentioned  Sapiens (10 Year Anniversary Edition) by HARARI YUVAL NOAH  Leonardo's Notebooks: Writing and Art of the Great Master (Notebook Series) by Leonardo Da Vinci  A History of the Sikhs by Khushwant Singh  Dr. Gill joined Calgon Corporation    Scaling UP! H2O Resources Mentioned  AWT (Association of Water Technologies)  Scaling UP! H2O Academy video courses  Submit a Show Idea    Water You Know with James McDonald  Question: What do we call the ratio between the amount of dissolved solids in a system water and the amount of dissolved solids in that system's makeup water?    2025 Events for Water Professionals  Check out our Scaling UP! H2O Events Calendar where we've listed every event Water Treaters should be aware of by clicking HERE.     

“Give Me Liberty or Give Me Death!” - Patrick Henry  Honoring Innovation, Freedom, and Small Business on the 4th of July  In this special Independence Day episode of Scaling UP! H2O, host Trace Blackmore brings you a rich blend of patriotism, professional insight, and entrepreneurial spirit. Opening with reflections on July 4th traditions—from fireworks to parades—Trace sets the stage for a compelling conversation with Jack Clark, Owner and Founder of 180 Water. As the water industry faces growing demand and generational turnover, Jack offers a bold solution: a replicable franchise model designed to preserve institutional knowledge and sustainably expand access to clean water. A Rancher Turned Water Well Visionary  Jack shares his origin story, from growing up on a ranch in Montana to launching a water well drilling company that now spans multiple states. What started with a neighbor's influence and a deep respect for self-reliance evolved into a career in well drilling—and eventually, a scalable business framework. Jack walks us through the unique challenges of finding water in fractured rock regions and explains how field wisdom, data monitoring, and humility define success. Franchising in the Water Sector: Solving the Knowledge Drain  As the industry grapples with aging experts nearing retirement, 180 Water is addressing a critical issue: the loss of operational and geological expertise. Jack reveals how his team is onboarding retiring professionals as equity partners to serve as regional hubs, blending mentorship with modern operations. Their approach enables local ownership, data collection, and scalable customer service, while preserving regional nuances in well drilling. Lessons in Leadership, Accountability, and Resilience  Jack emphasizes that real growth stems from reflection, mentorship, and integrity. He discusses how accountability—rooted in ranch life—translates into transparent client relationships, responsible site practices, and support systems that empower franchisees. His goal? To build a network of highly trained, values-aligned professionals who ensure the longevity and safety of our groundwater resources. The Spirit of Liberty: Patrick Henry's Enduring Speech  In a moving tribute to Independence Day, Trace closes the episode with a complete reading of Patrick Henry's “Give Me Liberty or Give Me Death” speech. Listeners are reminded of the courage it takes to challenge the status quo and the unifying power of respectful discourse—values that echo through today's challenges in water, business, and beyond. Final Takeaway  This episode isn't just about wells—it's about vision, responsibility, and the courage to lead. Jack Clark's journey inspires water professionals to think bigger, act with purpose, and consider scalable solutions to systemic industry issues.  Be sure to check our events page for upcoming water conferences and symposiums to continue growing your expertise.  Stay engaged, keep learning, and continue scaling up your knowledge!    Timestamps    02:20 - Trace Blackmore shares his warm greetings to Scaling UP! Nation this 4th of July! 07:27 - Upcoming Events for Water Treatment Professionals   10:37 - Water You Know with James McDonald  12:53 - Introduction with Jack Clark of 180 Water 18: 07 - Jack transitioned from expansion by employment to a franchise model   Quotes  Jack Clark: “If you don't get your chores done on the farm, things don't eat. And so it's important to make sure that you can be counted on.” “I was sending my best guys to the worst projects, my worst guys to the best projects—and no one was happy.” “You know how to run your business. You were successful at that. But we want to help you scale it with support and mentorship.” “There's not a perfect science to well drilling. Sometimes you find the water. Sometimes you don't. But that's the responsibility we take on.”  Trace Blackmore: “I really believe that the backbone of our country is small business and entrepreneurship.” “I hope we realize we have way more in common than we do differences—and that we enter conversations with curiosity instead of judgment.”    Connect with Jack Clark  Phone: +406 465 4791   Email: jack.clark@180water.com  Website: 180 Water   LinkedIn: 180 Water: Overview | LinkedIn    Click HERE to Download Episode's Discussion Guide    Guest Resources Mentioned  Freakonomics: A Rogue Economist Explores the Hidden Side of Everything by Steven D. Levitt, Stephen J Dubner    Scaling UP! H2O Resources Mentioned  AWT (Association of Water Technologies)  Scaling UP! H2O Academy video courses  Submit a Show Idea  The Rising Tide Mastermind    Water You Know with James McDonald  Question: How many ppm of sodium sulfite does it take to react with one ppm of oxygen?   2025 Events for Water Professionals   Check out our Scaling UP! H2O Events Calendar where we've listed every event Water Treaters should be aware of by clicking HERE.     

In this episode, Trace Blackmore welcomes back Tom Hutchison, Chairman of the Board, HOH Water Technology, to reflect on what it really takes to step out of day-to-day leadership—and do it well. As a multi-decade leader in water treatment, Tom shares the personal, professional, and organizational insights that shaped his transition from CEO to chairman and what it means to lead a business into its next generation.  From early succession conversations to the unspoken anxieties of staff, Hutch offers a rare look behind the curtain of legacy-building in industrial water treatment. And as private equity plays a growing role in the industry, Tom unpacks the very real choices facing owners and teams alike—with clarity and compassion. Navigating Leadership Through Change  Tom begins by describing the decision to shift from day-to-day leadership to a board-level role. He reflects on the emotional weight of that process and the internal work required to detach his identity from his title. Rather than clinging to authority, he outlines the importance of trust and letting emerging leaders find their voice—even when it means they'll make different decisions.  He also highlights the human cost of poor planning. “Death,” as Tom puts it bluntly, “is not a strategy.” Waiting too long or failing to mentor successors doesn't just disrupt the business—it risks unraveling everything you've built. Succession Planning and Cultural Continuity  Trace and Tom dive into the mechanics of succession planning—not just from an ownership perspective, but a cultural one. Tom explains how HOH built an internal environment where values weren't just posted on the wall but deeply lived. This foundation allowed the company to navigate major transitions, including its eventual move into private equity, without losing its identity.  He also warns about the consequences of delayed planning. Waiting too long, he says, puts the business, its people, and its principles at risk.    Preparing for Private Equity—Without Losing Yourself  One of the most practical parts of the conversation centers on HOH's private equity journey. Tom shares how they vetted buyers not just for financial capacity, but for cultural alignment. He outlines how his team clarified their mission and values before the deal, which ultimately helped preserve their vision after the transition.  Rather than resist change, HOH treated the shift as an opportunity to reinforce their core—while expanding their reach.   The Long Arc of Legacy  Tom closes with a powerful meditation on leadership legacy. He explains that real legacy isn't about being remembered—it's about ensuring the business can thrive without you. He challenges listeners to think beyond titles, financial outcomes, or even strategy, and focus on the enduring impact of culture, mentorship, and examples.  Trace echoes this with a reminder that great leaders not only lead—they leave well. If you're leading a team, planning your exit, or preparing the next generation of leadership, this episode is a must-listen.  To take this conversation further, download the Discussion Guide located in the Connect with the Guest section of the show notes. Stay engaged, keep learning, and continue scaling up your knowledge!   Timestamps  02:46 – Opening the episode, Trace reflects on the concept of the “butterfly line”—that uncomfortable but powerful moment right before growth happens  07:10 – Water You Know with James McDonald  09:08 – Upcoming Events for Water Treatment Professionals 11:49– Guest Intro: Tom “Hutch” Hutchison Returns  12:35 – Stepping Down in 2020: How the Pandemic Helped  17:17 – Private Equity's Growing Role in Water Treatment  20:04 – The 5 Ownership Transition Paths 36:01 – Your Company is an Asset, not just a Job  42:00 – A New Mission: To Encourage and Inspire    Quotes  “The longer you put it off, the fewer options you have. And probably, the more unsettled your employees might be.”  “You don't have to suffer for the first time alone. If someone's already done it, learn from them and do it better.”  “Business is both a job and an asset. If you only treat it as a job, you're leaving value on the table.”  “I think I'm still figuring it out—but in this next season, I want to encourage and inspire.”  “You can start at step five if someone else already figured out the first four—just polish it and give it back.”    Connect with Tom Hutchison  Phone: +18474367403  Email: hutch@hohwatertechnology.com  Website: HOH Water Technology - Water Treatment Solutions  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thomasfhutchison/   Click HERE to Download Episode's Discussion Guide    Guest Resources Mentioned  Alexander Hamilton by Ron Chernow  Halftime: Moving from Success to Significance by Bob P. Buford  Harry Potter Paperback Box Set (Books 1-7) by J.K. Rowling  King: A Life by Jonathan Eig  Strong and Weak: Embracing a Life of Love, Risk and True Flourishing by Andy Crouch   The Ideal Team Player: How to Recognize and Cultivate The Three Essential Virtues (J-B Lencioni Series) by Patrick M. Lencioni  The Lord of the Rings: 50th Anniversary, One Vol. Edition by J.R.R. Tolkien  The Little Liar: A Novel by Mitch Albom    Scaling UP! H2O Resources Mentioned  AWT (Association of Water Technologies)  Scaling UP! H2O Academy video courses  Submit a Show Idea  The Rising Tide Mastermind  166 The One Where We Celebrate Halloween   325 Rising Together: Conquering Challenges through Collective Support 127 The One With Tom Hutchison   Water You Know with James McDonald  Question: What is defined as the acid-absorbing property of water?    2025 Events for Water Professionals  Check out our Scaling UP! H2O Events Calendar where we've listed every event Water Treaters should be aware of by clicking HERE.   

Dr. Joseph Kanter, ASTHO CEO, Dr. Scott Harris, ASTHO President, Dr. Susan Kansagra, ASTHO Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Lindsay Weaver of Indiana, Dr. James McDonald of New York, and Dr. Ralph Alvarado of Tennessee, share more from Tuesday's deskside briefing on the impact of Nutrition on Chronic Disease; Kelly Dougherty, Deputy Commissioner at the Vermont Department of Health, explains how the state's public health strategies reduced opioid overdose deaths; and an ASTHO Blog Article shows that states across the country are reassessing vaccine policy and public health powers due to legislative changes that impact public health authority and access to vaccines. Vermont Department of Health: Deaths from Opioid Overdose Declined Significantly in 2024 ASTHO Blog Article: States Reassessing Vaccine Policy and Public Health Powers ASTHO Web Page: STAR Center  

Dr. Joseph Kanter, ASTHO CEO, Dr. Scott Harris, ASTHO President, Dr. Susan Kansagra, ASTHO Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Lindsay Weaver of Indiana, Dr. James McDonald of New York, and Dr. Ralph Alvarado of Tennessee, held a deskside briefing on the impact of Nutrition on Chronic Disease; Catherine Jones, Senior Analyst of Government Affairs at ASTHO, shares some of the biggest takeaways from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services' recent budget hearings; ASTHO's 2025 Executive Leadership Forum Annual meeting is happening now; and publichealthcareers.org can help public health teams in the hiring process. ASTHO Federal Health Policy Update: HHS Budget Hearings Chart New Direction for Public Health ASTHO Public Health Review Morning Edition Public Health Careers  

“You don't have to transition your entire business. You just need to start. Small beginnings are okay.”  Revolutionizing Water Treatment Through Smart Tech  In this episode of Scaling UP! H2O, host Trace Blackmore welcomes Kevin Kuhne, Founder and President of Energy Resource Products, LLC, for a deep-dive conversation on the emerging role of smart technology and artificial intelligence in water treatment.  With decades of experience leading tech-driven innovation, Kevin unpacks how intelligent systems, edge computing, and real-time data processing are reshaping operations in the field—from cooling towers to complex distribution networks.  Whether you're managing plant performance or driving strategic growth, this episode offers a credible look into the future of industrial water management.   From Controllers to Edge-Based Intelligence  Kevin introduces the evolution of traditional controllers into what he calls “computers at the edge.” These intelligent systems collect real-time data, deliver predictive alerts, and can execute secure firmware updates—all without requiring field visits. This shift eliminates the dependency on gateways and streamlines site management through centralized dashboards, saving time and resources.  He illustrates how these systems not only detect pump failures before they occur but also reduce chemical overdosing incidents by offering immediate visibility into feeder issues and sensor discrepancies.   Breaking the Barrier: Selling Smart Tech to Stakeholders  One of the recurring challenges in adopting new technology is overcoming skepticism—especially from IT teams and procurement stakeholders. Kevin outlines strategies for simplifying the sales conversation: focus on specific ROI outcomes like labor savings, chemical usage reduction, and improved equipment uptime. He also breaks down how modern security protocols and machine-to-machine communication are easing concerns around connectivity and data protection.   AI and the Cloud: Turning Data into Action  The discussion advances into how AI-enabled platforms now process disparate data streams in the cloud to support smarter decision-making. Rather than waiting for weekly reports, professionals can now access dynamic dashboards and build customized data visualizations to proactively manage client sites from any location.  Kevin emphasizes that this shift empowers service professionals, not replaces them. By removing manual data bottlenecks, smart tech allows for more impactful engagement and long-term client retention.  Future-Proofing the Industry  Kevin predicts a near future where IO configurations fade, sensors become brand-agnostic, and user interfaces resemble common mobile apps. He encourages water professionals to begin small—pilot smart technology in a single location, gather feedback, and use those wins to accelerate broader adoption.  He closes with a message for early-career professionals: embracing smart technology from the start will enable them to deliver higher value and grow their impact in the industry.   Conclusion  As industries move toward intelligent infrastructure, water professionals must adapt. This episode provides a grounded, expert-led perspective on how to practically and securely implement these technologies. For technical managers, engineers, and company leaders, this is a timely and strategic conversation you won't want to miss.  Stay engaged, keep learning, and continue scaling up your knowledge!    Timestamps    01:38 – Trace Blackmore shares a reflection on sharks and ecosystem sustainability, tying into the episode's broader theme of technology and responsible action.   10:06 – Water You Know with James McDonald  11:30 – Upcoming Events for Water Treatment Professionals   14:08 – Interview with Founder, President, and Coach Kevin Kuhne of Energy Resource Products  16:11 - Kevin defines smart tech, contrasting traditional controllers with edge-based computing that delivers real-time data, predictive analysis, and remote access  33:10 — Future technology trends 36:12 — Message for newcomers: Kevin encourages young professionals to embrace tech as a tool for empowerment, not a threat    Quotes  “Your customer is already integrating AI in other parts of their business. If we're not doing it, someone else will.”   “Security is the real roadblock, but if the equipment has a computer-type base of operation, IT is far more comfortable.”  “Smart tech is identifying those areas that we can enhance information, translate it, and then act on it.”    Connect with Kevin Kuhne  Phone: 17632263945  Email: kevin@energyresourceproducts.com   Website: www.energyresourceproducts.com    LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/kevin-kuhne-1812626   Click HERE to Download Episode's Discussion Guide    Guest Resources Mentioned   12 Rules for Life: An Antidote to Chaos: Jordan B. Peterson   The Problem of Pain by C.S. Lewis  A Christmas Carol (Collins Classics) by Charles Dickens    Scaling UP! H2O Resources Mentioned  AWT (Association of Water Technologies)  Scaling UP! H2O Academy video courses  Submit a Show Idea  The Rising Tide Mastermind  AWT Technical Training (Coming Soon - 2026)   422 Inside the Association of Water Technologies with John Caloritis    Water You Know with James McDonald   Question: What is the breakpoint chlorination ratio of chlorine to ammonia required to reach a true free chlorine residual?    2025 Events for Water Professionals  Check out our Scaling UP! H2O Events Calendar where we've listed every event Water Treaters should be aware of by clicking HERE.   

Ric & Chappy are joined by Michael Guerin Live from Royal Ascot to hear all the latest news from there, and discuss James McDonald's race win over there. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dr. James McDonald, Commissioner of the New York State Department of Health, explains how the Public Health Infrastructure Grant strengthens the state's public health workforce. PHIG Partners Web Page PHIG Newsletter  

A Lifelong Exploration into Chlorine Dioxide  In this episode of Scaling UP! H2O, Trace Blackmore welcomes Greg D. Simpson, a recognized authority on chlorine dioxide and a long-time researcher, writer, and technologist in the industrial water treatment space. With decades of hands-on experience and a personal archive of thousands of technical papers, Greg brings unmatched depth to this essential conversation.    From Field Trials to File Cabinets   Greg takes us through his early career, from being tasked to explore chlorine dioxide as an alternative disinfectant on the Gulf Coast to becoming a dedicated advocate of its power and versatility. He explains why chlorine dioxide often outperforms traditional biocides like bromine and chlorine, especially in complex environments such as refineries, hospitals, and cooling towers.   Comparing Monochloramine and Chlorine Dioxide   A central theme in the episode is Greg's recent research comparing monochloramine and chlorine dioxide. He shares real-world case histories, including treatments at major institutions and breaks performance differences in terms of biofilm penetration, disinfection byproducts, and residual impact. He also discusses regulatory hurdles, competitive dynamics, and what the literature says about long-term microbiological effects.   Building Disinfection Systems and Emerging Applications   The episode explores chlorine dioxide's expanding role in building disinfection, especially healthcare facilities. Greg shares how generator technologies are changing the game, while also diving into regulatory constraints in places like Texas. He further explains the promising potential of chlorine dioxide in air disinfection and surface sanitation, drawing from both studies and practical implementations.    A Legacy of Learning   From assembling four filing cabinets of technical papers to writing multiple books and collaborating with other industry pioneers, Greg's story is one of relentless inquiry. His work continues to influence how the industry thinks about safe and effective disinfection strategies.   Conclusion   Greg Simpson's insights go far beyond operational know-how. This episode is a masterclass in both the science and history of chlorine dioxide in industrial applications. For professionals seeking to deepen their understanding of advanced water treatment chemistry, this conversation is essential.   Call-To-Action   Explore more episodes of Scaling UP! H2O to stay current on the science, tools, and trends shaping industrial water treatment. Continue the conversation with peers, and never stop learning. Stay engaged, keep learning, and continue scaling up your knowledge!   Timestamps  04:13 – Water You Know with James McDonald   05:28 – Upcoming Events for Water Treatment Professionals  07:43 – Trace starts the interview with introduction of the master of all things – Chlorine Dioxide  16:25 – Trace asks about paper presented at the Association of Water Technologies chlorine dioxide versus chloramine, a review 31:30 – Benefits of Chlorine Dioxide in Pulp Bleaching and reduced environmental toxicity  36:04 – Chlorine dioxide vs. Monochloramine in hospital water systems and Legionella prevention   41:08 – Advice for Professionals    Quotes “Find an area to focus on and know more about that than anybody else.” “Chlorine dioxide doesn't differentiate too much between the walls and what's in bulk water.”  “When we changed to chlorine dioxide, it was five or six months before we saw a residual at the other end of our distribution system.” “Chlorine dioxide does not chlorinate directly any organic.”   Connect with Greg D. Simpson  Phone: +17132060250  Email: greg@clo2guy.com   Website: PureLine Click HERE to Download Episode's Discussion Guide    Guest Resources Mentioned   Chlorine Dioxide vs. Monochloramine: A Review technical paper  Practical Chlorine Dioxide: Volume I – Foundations   Practical Chlorine Dioxide: Volume II - Applications  Practical Chlorine Dioxide: Volume III - Oil and Gas  A Focus on Chlorine Dioxide: The "Ideal" Biocide technical paper  The Safe and Effective Use of Chlorine Dioxide technical paper  Biofilm: Removal and Prevention with Chlorine Dioxide technical paper    Scaling UP! H2O Resources Mentioned  AWT (Association of Water Technologies)  Scaling UP! H2O Academy video courses  Submit a Show Idea   Water You Know with James McDonald  Question: Which water analysis measures the concentration of hydrogen ions in water?    2025 Events for Water Professionals  Check out our Scaling UP! H2O Events Calendar where we've listed every event Water Treaters should be aware of by clicking HERE.   

In this episode of Scaling UP! H2O, host Trace Blackmore interviews Jake Deak, Marketing & Inside Sales Director at Pyxis Lab, for a deep dive into how innovation is born—not in labs, but in the field. Jake shares the story of Pyxis Lab's rapid evolution from a lean, hands-on team to an industry leader in developing smart, user-informed water treatment technology.   Building Solutions from Real-World Problems  Jake Deak's journey began during the pandemic, stepping into a role shaped by both legacy and urgency. Working closely with his father and the Pyxis team, he reveals how their approach centers around listening intently to water treatment professionals and designing products that directly solve the problems they face.  From the ST500 sensor to the OxiPanel, Jake breaks down how each product starts with a call from the field—an operator struggling with membrane fouling, or a technician frustrated by unreliable chlorine measurements. Pyxis doesn't stop at fixing problems; it uses those challenges as fuel for continuous R&D cycles, bringing hardware, firmware, and app-based solutions to life.   Innovation Through Collaboration and Core Values  The success of Pyxis Lab isn't just about technology—it's about a culture deeply rooted in empathy and real-world experience. Jacob discusses the importance of maintaining strong core values and explains how hiring practices focused on field expertise led to better tools and better service for end users.   From Product Development to Media Innovation  Leveraging his media background, Jacob also reveals the upcoming launch of Pyxis Lab's new podcast, "In The Flow." Created to foster industry education and dialogue, this initiative underscores the company's commitment to advancing the water treatment profession through open communication and shared knowledge.   A Clear Takeaway  If there's one message that defines this episode, it's that the best innovations don't begin in isolation—they begin with a conversation. Whether it's a technician venting a daily frustration or a field team asking “what if?”, Pyxis Lab listens and acts. And as Jake reminds us, the future belongs to those who adapt, engage, and stay relentlessly curious.   Conclusion  Jacob Deak exemplifies the spirit of innovation that is reshaping the water treatment industry. Through passion, practicality, and persistence, his work at Pyxis Lab offers a compelling model for how technology and human experience can work hand in hand to create better solutions for water professionals worldwide.  Continue expanding your professional knowledge by subscribing to "Scaling UP! H2O" and exploring "In The Flow" by Pyxis Lab. Stay informed, stay innovative, and stay connected to the evolution of water treatment excellence. Stay engaged, keep learning, and continue scaling up your knowledge!    Timestamps  02:17 – Trace Blackmore reflects on eight years of Scaling UP! H2O, building a global community for industrial water treaters  05:10 – Announcement of New Detective H2O Episodes coming for Industrial Water Week  08:04 – Upcoming Events for Water Treatment Professionals   10:15 – Water You Know with James McDonald  12:50 – Introduction to Jake Deak: Background, Family Influence, and Career Journey  16:16 – Core Values at Pyxis Lab and how they shape product development and customer relationships  17:07 – Inside the creation of the OxiPanel Plus   27:14 – Why Pyxis Lab developed a mobile app   29:37 – In the Flow, Pyxis Lab's new education podcast series    Quotes  "When I started this podcast eight years ago, I had no idea how much it would mean to so many people." - Trace Blackmore “If you can envision a staircase in front of you, the very first step is about ten feet tall. But once you take it, you're on your way.” — Trace Blackmore  "We don't just create content; we create community."  "Starting is always the hardest step."  "Data is king. The more we can help operators harness their data, the better decisions they'll make."  "We're not just adapting to change; we're leading it." “We are the friend to the water treater—the friend to the end user—and that has led to a lot of new acquisitions for us.” — Jacob Deak    Connect with Jake Deak  Phone: +15704197057  Email: jacob.deak@pyxis-lab.com   Website: Inline & Handheld Analytical Tools for Water Treatment | Pyxis Lab®  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jacobddeak/   Click HERE to Download Episode's Discussion Guide    Guest Resources Mentioned   The Outsider by Stephen King  Dark Half by Stephen King  Under The Dome Stephen King  “In the Flow” Podcast by Pyxis Lab  2022 AWT Innovation Award Recipient  Episode 1 In The Flow : Trace Blackmore  ST-500 Inline PTSA Sensor  FS-100/101 Series Ultrasonic Flow Meters  PRL-100 Personal Radar Level Sensor  uPyxis App: Water Tech for Modern World    Scaling UP! H2O Resources Mentioned  AWT (Association of Water Technologies)  Scaling UP! H2O Academy video courses  Submit a Show Idea  2024 AWT Innovation Award Recipient    Water You Know with James McDonald  Question: Are conductivity and Total Dissolved Solids the same thing?    2025 Events for Water Professionals  Check out our Scaling UP! H2O Events Calendar where we've listed every event Water Treaters should be aware of by clicking HERE.   

In this milestone episode, host Trace Blackmore welcomes John Caloritis of the Metro Group and current President of the Association of Water Technologies (AWT). Together, they explore the strategic evolution of AWT and announce an exciting new partnership that officially makes Scaling UP! H2O the association's podcast partner. This conversation is a rare behind-the-scenes look into how AWT operates, from board decisions to training initiatives, and what the future holds for water treatment professionals who want to lead, grow, and make an impact.   Behind the Boardroom: How AWT Operates at the Top  John Caloritis gives a full picture of how the AWT Board of Directors functions—including the nomination and election process, board roles, and the important presence of a supplier representative. He also unpacks the quarterly rhythm of board meetings and explains how day-to-day operations are managed by dedicated staff in Rockville, MD.  This section highlights the association's emphasis on structured leadership and professional governance—insights crucial for members considering future leadership roles.   Building Momentum: Strategic Planning, Committees, and New Metrics  From selecting future convention cities to refining AWT's strategic plan, John walks us through the latest developments discussed in the May 2025 board meeting. A major shift includes revisiting governance documents, some untouched for 20 years, and implementing board performance metrics tied directly to AWT's goals.  Additionally, John outlines the role of the new Committee Town Hall and how it strengthens the feedback loop between committees and the board—a must-know for engaged members.   Training the Industry: What's New in AWT Technical Education   AWT continues to invest in elevating its training programs. John details the launch of the new intermediate water treatment course, improvements in wastewater and sales training, and plans for more hands-on and flexible formats. Frisco, TX remains the training hub—with a refreshed schedule aimed at reaching more professionals year-round.  This section underscores AWT's commitment to equipping water treaters with practical, career-advancing education.   Advocacy, Certification, and Expanding Global Reach From ANSI accreditation for the Certified Water Technologist (CWT) designation to expanding relationships with global organizations like the UK Water Management Society, AWT is positioning itself as a global authority. John also shares how new tools like Quorum software are enhancing regulatory insight at the state and federal level, helping members stay ahead of legislation that affects their work.   Charity and Collaboration: The Bigger Mission  John shares how AWT's alignment with World Vision is driving charitable impact—most recently through service projects in Swannanoa, NC and participation in the global 6K for Water. He also introduces a promising new partnership with the American Boiler Manufacturers Association (ABMA), emphasizing the need for joint standards and shared technical knowledge Growing Together: Committees, Mentorship, and New Membership Models John and Trace emphasize the importance of committee participation and unveil initiatives like the mentor-mentee program (via the Women of Water Committee) and the onboarding support provided by Young Professionals. AWT's new Individual Membership model also opens doors for more professionals to join and engage with the association regardless of company affiliation.   A Historic Partnership: Scaling UP! H2O Becomes the Official AWT Podcast  In a powerful announcement, John and Trace reveal that the Scaling UP! H2O Podcast is now the official podcast of AWT. This partnership will allow both organizations to expand their reach, spotlight committee efforts, and communicate more effectively with the broader water treatment community.  This episode pulls back the curtain on the AWT's inner workings and shows the real-world impact of engaged leadership. John's insights offer a valuable reminder that anyone in the water industry can find a place to lead, grow, and serve. Want to learn more about AWT committees or get involved? Review the show notes for direct links to committee descriptions and the mentor-mentee program. If you've been on the fence about getting your CWT, now's the time—set a date, make a plan, and earn your designation.  Stay engaged, keep learning, and continue scaling up your knowledge!    Timestamps  02:38 – Trace Blackmore reflects on the importance of knowing your “why” with a powerful story about the Wright Brothers.  07:11 – Water You Know with James McDonald  08:22 – Upcoming Events for Water Treatment Professionals  10:40 – Interview with John Caloritis, President of the Association of Water Technologies and Technical Director at Metro Group  17:02 – Daily Operations of AWT and roles of key staff members   24:05 – Preview of the upcoming AWT Convention at the Broadmoor, including paper selection and training topics.   35:29 – How to get involved in AWT Committees and the value of participation  39:09 – Big Announcement  42:13 – Upcoming Initiatives: growing CWT Brand, ANSI Certification, and regulatory advocacy    Quotes “I waited until later in life to get more actively involved in the association, and I wish I'd started earlier.” - John Caloritis  “When you put yourself into rooms where you are not the smartest person, that's your key to learning things you didn't even know to ask about.” - Trace Blackmore  “Every hour you engage in, you will contribute so much to your life—and I can't even describe the ways in which I've benefited.” - John Caloritis  “Work backwards, set the date, and then make sure that your study plans work up until that date."  - Trace Blackmore “Without our committees, we are absolutely going nowhere.” - John Caloritis    Connect with John Caloritis  Phone: (917) 593-9492  Email: jcaloritis@metrogroupinc.com  Website: Comprehensive Building Services Since 1925 - Metro Group Inc.  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/themetrogroupinc/   Click HERE to Download Episode's Discussion Guide     Guest Resources Mentioned   AWT Committees  AWT Convention 2025   AWT Governance Document American Boiler Manufacturers Association (ABMA) CWT Certification  Education Offerings Individual Membership Water Treatment Supplier  World Vision    Scaling UP! H2O Resources Mentioned  AWT (Association of Water Technologies)  Scaling UP! H2O Academy video courses  Submit a Show Idea  Star With Why by Simon Sinek   Water You Know with James McDonald  Question: What do you call the enclosed space between the drift eliminators and the fan in an induced-draft tower?    2025 Events for Water Professionals  Check out our Scaling UP! H2O Events Calendar where we've listed every event Water Treaters should be aware of by clicking HERE. 

The way James McDonald is reeling off Gr 1 wins it seems certain he'll need only two more full seasons to seriously threaten Damien Oliver's record of 129 Australian wins at the elite level. Until that happens we can continue to appreciate the distinguished record “Ollie” left behind when he retired from race riding seventeen months ago. Those 129 Gr 1's were the highlights of a magnificent career tally of 3189. Throw in 14 Scobie Breasley medals, 10 Melbourne jockey's premierships and an induction into the Racing Australia Hall of Fame at age 36, and you've got one hell of a record. Damien's Melbourne Cup win on Media Puzzle in 2002 came just days after the death of his jockey brother Jason who'd suffered multiple injuries in a Perth barrier trial fall. The story of the tragedy behind Media Puzzle's win made news around the world and remains a part of Australian racing folklore. A podcast seemed the best way to identify and document the many facets of the fascinating life of one of our best ever jockeys. “Ollie” was happy to oblige and we caught him in reminiscent mood.  He begins by admitting he still gets an occasional withdrawal symptom when the big races roll around. Damien talks of his final day in the saddle- a four race international jockey's series in Saudi Arabia. He looks back on his final Melbourne Cup carnival. Three wins over the week consolidated his all time record of 88 wins for the four day carnival. The former ace jockey looks back on his final day of riding in Australia. From seven rides at Perth's Ascot track he won the last three races to the delight of 10,000 racegoers. It was an emotional day for the WA born horseman. He talks about the death of his father Ray in a Kalgoorlie race fall in 1975. He was just three years old. Damien reflects on his original apprenticeship to step father Lindsay Rudland, and the unforgettable thrill of his very first winning ride at Bunbury. He recalls the manner in which negotiations played out for his transfer to the Freedman stable in Melbourne. He says the experience was intimidating in the beginning. The multiple premiership winner reflects on the first of his 129 Gr 1 victories. He was just 18 years old at the time.  He agrees that Mannerism's Caulfield Cup win in 1992 was the one to propel him onto the big stage. Damien is happy to admit his first Melbourne Cup appearance finished in a disaster. He's still in disbelief that he was able to win 18 Gr 1's before completing his apprenticeship. Damien reflects on the first of his three Melbourne Cup wins on Doriemus in 1995. He pays special tribute to the top class stayer. He was happy to revisit the incredible Media Puzzle story of 2002. The death of brother Jason following a freak accident in a Perth barrier trial and the reason for his decision to ride the Irish stayer in the Melbourne Cup. He remembers the race, the emotion, the aftermath and the release of a movie called The Cup nine years later. He recalls the circumstances leading up to his engagement for Fiorente in the 2013 Melbourne Cup. He'd never ridden the horse in a race but played a major part in the stallion's preparation leading up to the big race. Damien talks of three second placings in the famous event. He reflects on some favourite moments from his Gr 1 journey beginning with his first Cox Plate success on Dane Ripper in 1997. Damien remembers his second Cox Plate win on the great West Aussie Northerly. He had to survive a double protest. The champion jockey has won some major races several times over. He looks back on multiple victories in races like the Victoria Oaks, the Victoria Derby, and the 1000 Guineas.  Damien talks of several great sprinters he got to ride with special mention of the powerful grey Schillaci. Oliver won 5 races on the brilliant Testa Rossa including 3 Gr 1's. He reflects on one famous defeat at the hands of Redoute's Choice in the 1999 Caulfield Guineas. Damien says the last elite horse he rode was the multiple Gr 1 winner Anamoe. He picked up the ride on the emerging superstar when Covid restrictions prevented James McDonald from commuting to Melbourne. He was chuffed to finally snare a Golden Slipper win on Sydney filly Forensics in 2007. He had a beautiful run from the inside gate but had a fight on his hands to stave off Zizou. Damien was happy to talk about one career low point- an eight month disqualification after being found guilty of a betting offence. He explains how it took two years before he was actually charged.  He looks back on the worst of the many injuries he sustained in 35 years of race riding- a spinal fusion enabled him to keep going for another 18 years. Damien talks of the reaction of wife Trish to his retirement announcement in 2023, and the current activities of daughters Niali and Zara and son Luke. It's a laid back chat with a jockey regarded by many racing students as one of the greatest in Australian racing history.

“Keep it simple because the more complex things get, the less people will do it” - Gary Garcia For years, water treatment professionals have relied on PTSA tracers to estimate system performance, but emerging technologies are offering clearer, more direct answers. In this episode of Scaling UP! H2O, host Trace Blackmore welcome once again returning guest Garret "Gary" S. Garcia of Masters Company, now a business unit of MFG Chemical to explore how fluorescent tagged polymers are revolutionizing the way water treaters monitor system health and chemical performance. With decades of expertise, Gary offers practical insights into this game-changing technology.   Why Tagged Polymers Matter  Trace and Gary discuss the limitations of relying solely on PTSA tracers, a method that only indicates product presence rather than active ingredient performance. Gary explains how fluorescent tagged polymers, by chemically bonding the fluorophore to the polymer backbone, provide a direct and reliable measure of active polymer concentration, helping water treaters make more informed service decisions.   Instrumentation and Integration Challenges  Listeners will gain a practical understanding of how to implement tagged polymer technology. Gary outlines how existing probes and meters compare, what calibration and integration may look like, and whether both PTSA and tagged polymers can be used together. He also explains why tagged polymers are especially useful in systems impacted by iron, cationic biocides, or inconsistent load demands.    Real-World Applications and Benefits  Tagged polymers make it possible to move beyond "set-it-and-forget-it" dosing practices. Gary discusses how accurate polymer monitoring can reduce overfeeding, optimize chemical performance, and improve system health. For both QC in manufacturing and daily service checks, these tools offer better visibility into what's really happening inside the system.    The Simplicity of Switching  Gary highlights the ease of adopting tagged polymers – often a direct drop-in with no reformulation needed. For water treaters, that means minimal disruption and an immediate opportunity to upgrade their programs.   Conclusion  Fluorescent tagged polymers are not just another tool in the toolbox; they represent a critical step forward in water treatment precision and reliability. As Gary notes, understanding and adopting these technologies allows professionals to elevate their programs, save resources, and better serve their customers.  Continue advancing your technical expertise. Explore additional Scaling UP! H2O episodes, stay updated on innovations in water treatment, and connect with leaders like Gary Garcia who are shaping the future of the industry. Visit scalinguph2o.com to access more resources and educational discussions. Stay engaged, keep learning, and continue scaling up your knowledge!   Timestamps  01:55 – Trace reflects on last week's episode of Ben Frieders' talking about fire safety advice.   08:03 – Water You Know with James McDonald  09:33 – Upcoming Events for Water Treatment Professionals  13:01 – Interview with returning guest Gary Garcia of Master's Company   15:39 – Volunteering and Career growth through AWT  18:22 – Differences between PTSA and fluorescent tagged polymers  28:43 – Misconceptions about single-parameter testing with PTSA  34:01 – How to learn more and connect with experts like Gary Garcia   Quotes  “For every ounce of effort you put in, you get 10, 20 ounces back in return.”  Garcia  “We're the good guys. We're helping people save water, energy, helping the environment.”   “When you're measuring for the fluorescent tagged polymer, you're actually measuring for the active ingredient.”   “You gain more information; you gain more expertise. No one person has it all.”   Connect with Garret S. Garcia  Phone: 16302389292  Email: gary@masterscoinc.com  Website: www.masterscoinc.com  Click HERE to Download Episode's Discussion Guide    Guest Resources Mentioned   314 2023 Water Industry Updates  206 The One That's All About Customer Solutions In A Drum    Scaling UP! H2O Resources Mentioned  AWT (Association of Water Technologies)  Scaling UP! H2O Academy video courses  Submit a Show Idea  The Rising Tide Mastermind    Water You Know with James McDonald Question: What field test is used to measure how likely a water source is to foul reverse osmosis membranes due to suspended solids?   2025 Events for Water Professionals   Check out our Scaling UP! H2O Events Calendar where we've listed every event Water Treaters should be aware of by clicking HERE. 

"Continue to learn something new every day.” What happens when a Navy-trained water chemistry expert dives into AI-powered marketing? You get Ben Frieders—Marketing and Business Development Manager at ChemREADY—who's turning the tide on how water treatment professionals use tech.   Whether you're still skeptical of AI or already exploring tools like ChatGPT, this episode offers a masterclass in practical, professional applications tailored for the water treatment world.  From the Navy to Water Treatment: Ben's Story  Ben Frieders shares his journey from operating nuclear submarines to leading marketing at ChemREADY. His technical background in water chemistry uniquely shaped how he approaches strategy, and service.   The Power of Rising Tide Mastermind   Ben explains how a peer group like Rising Tide transformed his professional growth—giving him weekly accountability, mentorship, and a place to talk shop without explanation.   AI in Action: Real Tools, Real Impact  Ben discusses how ChemREADY uses:  ChatGPT for blog and email creation  Sora to generate custom videos  11 Labs to automate audio narration  And more, all while respecting quality control and intellectual property    Prompt Engineering Tips from a Pro  Ben offers his personal playbook for building effective prompts—from defining identity and goals to making AI ask you the right questions. He even shares how to make AI generate its own prompt for best results.    AI for Technical Data Analysis  Learn how Ben's team uploads water treatment reports into ChatGPT to uncover trends, troubleshoot issues, and build insight-driven recommendations for clients.    Balancing Trust and Tech  Ben emphasizes that AI is just a tool—not a replacement for professionals. He shares how he uses AI to amplify strategy, not replace human judgment.   AI isn't a shortcut—it's a skill. Whether you're in sales, marketing, service, or strategy, learning how to prompt and guide AI tools will set you apart in the water treatment industry. Curious how your peers are using AI? Share your go-to tools and discoveries with us on LinkedIn. And if you haven't yet, sign up for our newsletter to get bonus content and tools that go beyond the episode. Stay engaged, keep learning, and continue scaling up your knowledge!    Timestamps    01:51 – Trace Blackmore shares insights on building client relationships, the value of communication, and recognizing your role in the water treatment industry  07:02 – Water You Know with James McDonald  08:26 – Upcoming Events for Water Treatment Professionals   09:01 – Interview with Ben Frieders, Marketing and Business Development Manager at ChemREADY  20:40 – How ChemREADY uses AI tools in Marketing  37:17 – Using AI in Technical Operations – data interpretation and client analysis    Quotes  “AI is still just a tool. It's not the end all be all—you still need to continually modify the output.”   “Once you learn how to talk to AI, it becomes more of your friend and not your enemy.”  “The more details the better. Precision of language gives you the first best chance to get the output you want.”  “Start slow, experience the models, and see how AI is going to work best for you.”    Connect with Ben Frieders  Phone: (317) 719-1452  Email: bfrieders@zinkan.com  Website: https://www.getchemready.com/   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benjaminfrieders/   https://www.linkedin.com/company/getchemready/     Click HERE to download Episode's Discussion Guide     Guest Resources Mentioned    I said this, You Heard That by Kathleen Edelman  A Grown-Up's Guide To Kids' Wiring by Kathleen Edelman Sora (Open Ai)    Scaling UP! H2O Resources Mentioned  Scaling UP! H2O Academy video courses  Scaling UP! H2O's Newsletter Sign Up  Submit a Show Idea  The Rising Tide Mastermind  The Hang  Never Split the Difference: Negotiating as if Your Life Depended on It   402 Game Changing AI Tools: Matt Montellione's Insights    Water You Know with James McDonald   Question: What do you call the device commonly used to measure the percentage of salt in a softener brine solution?    2025 Events for Water Professionals   Check out our Scaling UP! H2O Events Calendar where we've listed every event Water Treaters should be aware of by clicking HERE.     

In this episode of Scaling UP! H2O, host Trace Blackmore reconnects with returning guest Dave Fitzgerald, President of North Metal & Chemical Company. Known for his forward-thinking predictions, Dave returns to share valuable insights into supply chain forecasting, emotional intelligence in leadership, and how a strong culture can shape business longevity.    Purpose-Driven Predictions  Dave doesn't just react—he predicts. Learn how he turns economic signals, freight trends, and material pricing into reliable forecasting tools to protect inventory and serve loyal customers.    Culture Starts with Emotional Frequency  From hiring and onboarding to daily operations, Dave shares how his team cultivates a culture of emotional intelligence, gratitude, and accountability—without micromanagement or ego.    Profit Sharing That Works  Hear how North Metal's equal-share profit system creates ownership thinking, motivates employees, and naturally builds peer accountability in a no-drama, high-performance workplace.   Mind Over Matter: Meditation & Mental Reframing  Dave's approach to meditation isn't about quieting the mind—it's about training emotional resilience. Learn how “emotional workouts” like cold showers and intentional emotion cycles sharpen leadership from within.    103 Years of Legacy with Eyes on the Future  As North Metal expands nationwide, Dave discusses how to honor legacy while preparing future generations and small businesses for long-term success in a consolidated industry.   Conclusion   From the warehouse to the boardroom, Dave Fitzgerald leads with a rare combination of foresight, humility, and heart. This episode will challenge you to rethink strategy, culture, and how you show up for your customers—and your team. Don't just manage—lead with purpose. Apply Dave's insights to build a resilient culture, forecast smarter, and turn your business into a place people are proud to be part of. Share the episode, subscribe, and join the Scaling UP! Nation in moving the industry forward. Stay engaged, keep learning, and continue scaling up your knowledge!    Timestamps   02:39 – Trace Blackmore shares about his grandfather  05:50 – Water You Know with James McDonald  07:05 – Upcoming Events for Water Treatment Professionals   09:41 – Interview with returning guest Dave Fitzgerald of North Metal and Chemical Company  15:31 – Anticipating tariff cycles and preparing supply chains accordingly  21:37 – Building a culture of emotional labor, ego-awareness, and care  33:26 – The true story behind the “North” in North Metal    Quotes  “I like to turn my to-do list into a prediction list.” - Dave Fitzgerald  “You're not an island—this industry is full of people who want to connect.”   “Meditation isn't about clearing your mind. It's about intentionally shaping your emotions.”    Connect with Dave Fitzgerald  Phone: 17175777941  Email: dfitzgerald@northchem.com   Website: https://northquestchem.com/   LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/dave-fitzgerald-b9809475     Click HERE to Download Episode's Discussion Guide    Guest Resources Mentioned   This Is Strategy: Make Better Plans by Seth Godin  Reframe Your Brain: The User Interface for Happiness and Success by Scott Adams  10x Is Easier Than 2x by Dan Sullivan  Unreasonable Hospitality: The Remarkable Power of Giving People More Than They Expect – by Will Guidara North Metals & Chemical Company: Market Update (As of May 2025) North Metals 2025 Newsletter   Scaling UP! H2O Resources Mentioned  AWT (Association of Water Technologies)  Scaling UP! H2O Academy video courses  Submit a Show Idea  The Rising Tide Mastermind 334 Inventory Intelligence: Enhancing Profitability through Smart Decisions   Water You Know with James McDonald Question: When measuring a volume of water in a graduated cylinder, what do you call the curve of the liquid when it touches the side of the cylinder?    2025 Events for Water Professionals  Check out our Scaling UP! H2O Events Calendar where we've listed every event Water Treaters should be aware of by clicking HERE. 

Corrosion control is fundamental to the success of any water treatment program, but how often do we question the limitations of the tools we rely on? In this episode of Scaling UP! H2O, host Trace Blackmore welcomes back returning guest Mike Standish, Vice President of Water Additives at MFG Chemical, to explore the evolving role of maleic acid-based corrosion inhibitors in industrial water treatment. Drawing on decades of expertise, Mike shares practical insights into when — and when not — to use these innovative solutions to meet today's complex challenges. Understanding the Corrosion Control Toolbox  Mike Standish opens the conversation by reframing corrosion control strategies through the lens of a toolbox analogy. With limited primary approaches — from phosphate-based to organic and metal-based chemistries — the success of corrosion management depends on matching the right tool to the right application. Mike stresses the importance of avoiding overcomplication and focusing on the fundamental chemical pathways for mild steel protection. Organic vs. Inorganic Approaches  The discussion turns to the critical differences between organic and inorganic inhibitors. While inorganic phosphates remain cost-effective mainstays, organic phosphonates, including maleic acid-derived materials, offer advantages in high pH, high hardness, and oxidizing environments. Mike emphasizes that “organic” in water treatment bears no relation to natural or sustainable products, a frequent misconception among newcomers to the industry. Why Maleic Acid-Based Inhibitors Matter  Maleic acid phosphonates distinguish themselves with exceptional oxidant stability, a feature increasingly necessary as continuous halogenation becomes standard practice. Mike explains the chemistry behind maleic acid derivatives and how the ability to tailor molecular structures creates flexibility for specific field conditions — such as scaling tendencies, pH control, and calcium carbonate formation risks. Best Practices for Application and Measurement  Field success with maleic acid-based inhibitors hinges on proper dosage and testing. Mike shares lessons from real-world trials, emphasizing that underfeeding is a common mistake that compromises corrosion rates. Accurate differentiation between orthophosphate and phosphonate concentrations is vital for precise monitoring, and bench testing must closely simulate real-world surface-to-volume ratios to yield reliable predictions. The Future of Corrosion Control  In a forward-looking discussion, Mike predicts that industry consolidation will trigger a second wave of entrepreneurial water treatment companies. His vision underscores the ongoing need for technical excellence, adaptability, and innovation in corrosion management practices as the industry evolves.  This episode challenges water treatment professionals to rethink their corrosion strategies with a sharper, more informed approach. Maleic acid-based inhibitors are not a universal solution, but when applied thoughtfully, they offer powerful advantages for specific operational demands.   Explore more episodes, challenge your assumptions, and lead the way in advancing our industry's standards of technical excellence. Don't forget to subscribe to Scaling UP! H2O for more expert insights in water treatment.  Stay engaged, keep learning, and continue scaling up your knowledge!    Timestamps   02:50 – Trace Blackmore shares a recap from previous episode. He also shares about the AWT Innovation Award   06:40 - Water You Know with James McDonald  08:00 - Upcoming Events for Water Treatment Professionals   12:38 - Welcoming back guest Mike Standish, Vice President of Water Additives – MFG Chemical   15:10 – The Value of True Industry Knowledge vs. Surface Information  23:10 – Starting the Technical Discussion: The Corrosion Control Toolbox Analogy  26:07 – Explanation of anodic vs. Cathodic protection mechanisms  37:35 – Situational Applications: When to use maleic acid-based inhibitors  40:11 – Lessons learned from field trials on dosage and corrosion control  41:28 – Importance of Accurate modeling and Surface-to-volume ratios    Quotes  “You going to get more than you can give” – Mike Standish  “Picking the right tool for the right job” – Mike Standish  "Stepping away from work for a mission trip doesn't just help others—it helps you gain a new perspective." – Mike Standish  “You can't just throw a new additive into a system and hope for the best. You need data, understanding of limits, and clear expectations.”  “There's going to be a second generation of AWT companies as industry consolidation continues.”    Connect with Mike Standish  Phone: (615) 207- 3018  Email: mike.standish@radicalpolymers.com  Website: https://www.radicalpolymers.com/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mike-standish-7890627/  Click HERE to Download Episode's Discussion Guide    Guest Resources Mentioned   Mild Steel Corrosion Control using a Maleic-Based Inhibitor  Purposely Built – Introduction of a New Copolymer for Multifunctional Applications Technical Paper     Scaling UP! H2O Resources Mentioned  AWT (Association of Water Technologies)  Scaling UP! H2O Academy video courses  Submit a Show Idea  The Rising Tide Mastermind   Legionella Awareness Resources   417 How To Live a Life of Significance: Insights from Aaron Walker  014 The One with Mike Standish   223 Pinks and Blues: Phosphonate Replacements   350 Polymer Perspectives: Understanding Copolymer Innovations in Water Treatment 176 The One About Tagged Polymer Technologies   Water You Know with James   Question: What do you call the large-diameter tube in firetube boilers where the combustion of fuel takes place?    2025 Events for Water Professionals  Check out our Scaling UP! H2O Events Calendar where we've listed every event Water Treaters should be aware of by clicking HERE.   

Dr. Kaitlan Baston, former Commissioner of Health for the New Jersey Department of Health and an ASTHO Member, outlines what New Jersey has been doing to address opioids; Kate Murray, Program Supervisor for Long COVID and Post-COVID Conditions at the Minnesota Department of Health, discusses her program and how the work is going; an ASTHO webinar on May 1 focuses on Academic Health Departmetn Partnerships; and ASTHO Member and the New York Commissioner of Health, Dr. James McDonald, will speak at Blooming Day 2025 on May 2. New Jersey Department of Health News Release: NJ Health Department Announces Waiver to Improve Access to Opioid Treatment Services New Jersey Department of Health News Release: ICYMI – Governor Murphy Announces Jeff Brown to Serve as Acting Commissioner of the New Jersey Department of Health Minnesota Department of Health Web Page: Long COVID Resources and Support ASTHO Webinar: Pathways to Academic Health Department Partnerships: Successes and Best Practices Blooming Day 2025 Web Page  

“ Don't Just Be Successful – Be Significant” How do you define success? Is it about financial achievement, accolades, or influence? What if true fulfillment lies in significance rather than just success? In this episode of the Scaling Up H2O podcast, we welcome back a distinguished guest, Aaron Walker. With over four decades of entrepreneurial experience, Aaron has not only built thriving businesses but has also dedicated his life to mentoring others, helping them navigate their paths with purpose. His belief that "Relationships Matter Most" is a guiding principle for those seeking deeper fulfillment in life and business.   The Journey to Significance  Aaron shares his personal and professional evolution, revealing how a tragic event shifted his perspective from chasing success to pursuing significance. He opens up about the lessons that redefined his mission and the impact of his book, View from the Top.  Mastermind Groups: The Secret to Accelerated Growth  What role do mastermind groups play in professional and personal development? Aaron explains why surrounding yourself with the right people can exponentially change your trajectory and how being part of a trusted network fosters accountability, wisdom, and breakthroughs.  Balancing Ambition and Serving Others  Success often comes at a cost, but how can we ensure it aligns with serving others? Aaron discusses the shift from self-focused goals to meaningful contributions, demonstrating how generosity and intentionality create a life of greater impact.  The Power of Intentional Living  How can we structure our daily habits for fulfillment and productivity? Aaron outlines his morning routines, scheduling techniques, and core principles that allow him to focus on what truly matters. Discover practical steps to bring clarity and purpose to your everyday life.  The Gift of Gratitude and Forgiveness  Aaron opens up about the power of forgiveness in setting oneself free from emotional burdens. He shares his personal experiences of releasing resentment and how gratitude plays a crucial role in living a more content and purpose-driven life.  Living a life of significance requires more than just business acumen—it demands a mindset shift, intentionality, and a willingness to serve others. Aaron Walker's wisdom provides a roadmap for those looking to create lasting impact in their careers and relationships.  What's one step you can take today to move toward significance? Tune in, reflect, and take action!  Stay engaged, keep learning, and continue scaling up your knowledge!     Timestamps    02:14 - Trace Blackmore shares celebration about the 55th anniversary of Earth Day  05:30 - Water You Know with James McDonald  07:50 - Upcoming Events for Water Treatment Professionals   11:27 - Aaron Walker's return to the show and his journey as an entrepreneur and mentor  13:38 - View from the Top: Why Aaron wrote the book and how it changed lives  20:10 - Mastermind groups: Why you shouldn't walk alone  41:10 - The life-changing power of gratitude   Quotes  "Success is about you; significance is about others."   "We all need a little rest, a reset, and a reevaluation to live our best lives."   "Intentionality is about doing things deliberately, with purpose."  "Gratitude is not about what you have; it's about recognizing the value in what you experience."  "You've forgiven someone when you quit demanding justice."  "Isolation is the enemy of excellence." “It's ok if you don't know, not to have the answers, and to ask questions.”    Connect with Aaron Walker  Phone: 615-207-3018  Email: aaron@viewfromthetop.com  Website: isibrotherhood.com  LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/aaronwalkerviewfromthetop   Click HERE to Download Episode's Discussion Guide    Guest Resources Mentioned   Iron Sharpens Iron Mastermind View From the Top   Wild at Heart: Discovering the Secret of a Man's Soul by John Eldredge   Scaling UP! H2O Resources Mentioned  Scaling UP! H2O Academy video courses  Submit a Show Idea  The Rising Tide Mastermind 184 The One Where I Interview My Mastermind Mentor 248 The One About Taking A Sabbatical 415 Green Building Updates: What You Need to Know 12 Week Year Five Minute Journal    Water You Know with James McDonald Question: What is the phenomenon called where calcium and magnesium are LESS soluble as the temperature RISES?    2025 Events for Water Professionals  Check out our Scaling UP! H2O Events Calendar where we've listed every event Water Treaters should be aware of by clicking HERE.     

“Always test your tools before field use. Side-by-side comparisons ensure repeatability and accuracy.” In this episode of Scaling UP! H2O, host Trace Blackmore delivers an in-depth update on the SteriPen, a widely used tool for water treatment professionals. After overwhelming demand from listeners, we revisit the SteriPen, its capabilities, and its impact on testing organic phosphates and azoles. If you're looking for efficiency, precision, and portability in water testing, this episode is packed with actionable insights.  The Evolution of the SteriPen Learn how the SteriPen became a game-changer in the industrial water treatment industry. Originally designed for hikers, it's now widely adopted for phosphate digestion and azole testing.  SteriPen Classic 3 vs. SteriPen Ultra: Which One Is Right for You? Trace compares the Classic 3 and Ultra models, discussing their battery life, efficiency, usability, and cost-effectiveness. Get clarity on which device suits your testing needs best.   Testing Efficiency: Reducing Time While Maintaining Accuracy Find out how the SteriPen reduces testing time by half while maintaining accuracy, making it a must-have tool for water professionals.  Best Practices for SteriPen Use From choosing the right vials and batteries to ensuring consistent testing results, this segment walks you through practical applications and expert recommendations.  The Future of Water Testing How innovations like the SteriPen and other portable UV tools are reshaping the way industrial water treatment professionals conduct daily testing.  With water testing advancements, efficiency is key. Whether you're new to SteriPen or looking to upgrade, this episode provides valuable insights to optimize your water testing process.  Water professionals deserve better tools. Upgrade your phosphate and azole testing with the right SteriPen for maximum efficiency and accuracy.  Stay engaged, keep learning, and continue scaling up your knowledge!    Timestamps 02:28 – Trace Blackmore shares a recap of Episode 414 06:47 – Upcoming Events for Water Treatment Professionals   16:15 – Water You Know with James McDonald  20:45 – Deep dive into SteriPen device: it's history and application 33:29 – Comparison between SteriPen Classic 3 and SteriPen Ultra  36:00 – Testing Procedures for organic and phosphate and azole tests  38:02 – Charging and battery life for both SteriPen models    Connect with Scaling UP! H2O Submit a show idea: Submit a Show Idea LinkedIn: in/traceblackmore/  YouTube: @ScalingUpH2O  Click HERE to download Episode's Discussion Guide      Scaling UP! H2O Resources Mentioned  Ep 046 The One About Phosphate Testing Ep 414 Pinks and Blues: Trace's Phosphate Redux Ep 415 Green Building Updates: What You Need to Know AA Battery Cases Augmenting your testing procedures for Phosphonate and Azole testing AWT (Association of Water Technologies)   Energizer Ultimate Lithium AA Batteries Eowpower 30pcs 50ml Plastic Vial Storage Container  Hach UV Lamp Kit, 115V  Hach Benzotriazole/Tolyltriazole  Hach Orthophospate PhosVer 3  Hach Phosphonate Lithium re-chargeable batteries  Re-chargeable Lithium Batteries with charger  Scaling UP! H2O Academy video courses  Steri Pen Classic 3  SteriPen Ultra  SteriPen Ultra – Katadyn Fact Sheet Submit a Show Idea  The unboxing of everything you need to use the SteriPen in your Phosphonate and Azole testing  Taylor Technologies Test Procedures:  Phosphonate  Taylor Technologies Test Procedures: Azole  World Vision Global 6k for Water    Water You Know with James McDonald Question: Does silica solubility typically decrease or increase with rising temperature?    2025 Events for Water Professionals  Check out our Scaling UP! H2O Events Calendar where we've listed every event Water Treaters should be aware of by clicking HERE. 

In this episode,UFC - Alexander Volkanovski reclaims back the featherweight belt over Diego Lopes. Paddy the baddy dominates Michael Chandler. NRL - Lachlan Galvin has declined a 5M offer from the Tigers. EPL - KDB puts on a masterclass against Crystal Palace after they come from 2-0 to win 5-2. Virgil Van Djik wins it late against West Ham.Manchester United and Spurs flogged again. Horse racing - Treasurethe moment wins the Oaks. Arapaho wins the Sydney cup at huge odds. Via Sistina wins her 7th group 1. Fangirl wins the Queen Of The Turf after an incredible ride by James McDonald. Accountability - Football best bets hit. Bin list/ Listener questions - When the cashier tries to make you buy a chocolate. Being referred to an overseas call centre. Not replying when they're online. Managers who expect you to be phone accessible 24/7. People who drum on every surface. Liverpools new right back options. Rank - Oblak, Donnarumma & Maignan Who makes the CL in the EPL? EPL match day 33 preview & goal scorer multi. NRL round 7 preview & stats you need to know. Punt off bets, generational wealth & football best bets. Make sure you follow coastalsportspod on Instagram to keep up to date. (0:00) Catch up(5:18) UFC 314 recap(9:05) Lachlan Galvin to leave Tigers (11:57) EPL review (15:08) Group 1 Racing (15:52) Accountability (19:06) Horses to follow (22:18) Life hindsight (25:06) When the cashier tries to make you buy a chocolate (27:22) Being referred to an overseas call centre (27:29) Not replying when there online (30:57) Managers who expect you be phone accessible 24/7(32:10) Drumming on every surface (34:00) People trying to sell you something outside shops(35:39) Driving to a national park and recording yourself cooking (36:48) Liverpools new right back (39:14) Rank - Oblak, Donnarumma or Maignan(41:31) Who makes the CL in the EPL(44:29) EPL match day 33 preview (51:24) Manly v Dragons(58:24) Bulldogs v Rabbitohs (1:04:03) Dolphins v Storm(1:10:09) Warriors v Broncos(1:14:40) Roosters v Panthers(1:19:30) Titans v Raiders (1:23:21) Knights v Sharks(1:27:53) Tigers v Eels(1:32:22) Generational wealth (1:34:00) Football best bets

“When there's a will, there's a way.” - Charlie Cichetti Sustainability is more than just a trend—it's a commitment to a better future. In this episode of Scaling UP! H2O, host Trace Blackmore sits down with Charlie Cichetti, LEED Fellow + WELL AP, CEO + Co-Founder of Skema.AI, a leading expert in green building to discuss the latest updates in sustainability and how they impact industries worldwide.  From energy efficiency to new LEED requirements, Charlie breaks down what professionals need to know about the latest green building innovations. Whether you're a facilities manager, an industrial water treatment expert, or just passionate about sustainability, this episode is packed with valuable insights, actionable advice, and a roadmap to making buildings greener and more efficient. What's New in Green Building? Green building standards are evolving, and LEED Version 5 is on the horizon. Learn how new prerequisites like electric vehicle charging stations and community impact considerations are shaping the future of sustainable infrastructure. LEED vs. WELL Certification: What's the Difference? LEED focuses on building performance and environmental impact, while WELL centers around health and well-being. Charlie breaks down how these certifications complement each other and why they matter in today's workplace. Energy Efficiency & Decarbonization Strategies How can companies reduce their carbon footprint and operating costs? Learn about smart buildings, microgrids, battery storage, and HVAC optimization—essential tools for cutting energy consumption while improving efficiency. Green Financing: How to Fund Sustainability Initiatives Many professionals assume sustainability upgrades are costly, but green financing, tax deductions, and government incentives make it easier than ever to fund energy and water-saving projects. Charlie shares how to access these opportunities. The Role of Water Treatment in Green Buildings The water-energy nexus is critical in sustainability efforts. Learn how industrial water treatment, cooling tower optimization, and HVAC efficiency contribute to green building goals and LEED certification points. Bottom Line Green buildings aren't just about reducing environmental impact—they're also about saving money, increasing efficiency, and creating healthier spaces. Tune in to discover practical ways you can implement sustainable practices in your facilities. Stay engaged, keep learning, and continue scaling up your knowledge!    Timestamps  02:12 - Trace Blackmore shares the Intro & Reflections on AI and Skynet 07:40 - Upcoming Events for Water Treatment Professionals 09:38 - Water You Know with James McDonald  11:29 - Interview with Charlie Cichetti about the latest on green building  25:31 - LEED vs. WELL: Understanding the Difference  31:50 - How to Get Started with Green Buildings  33:01 - Future of Green Building   Quotes "Sustainability isn't just about being green; it's about reducing costs, improving efficiency, and creating a healthier work environment." – Charlie Cichetti  "Benchmarking is the first step to making any building greener—know where you stand so you can improve." – Charlie Cichetti  "LEED is still the most recognized green building certification globally." – Charlie Cichetti    Connect with Charlie Cichetti  Phone: (706) 633-6689  Email: charlie@skema.ai  Website: https://gbes.com/  LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/charliecichetti/   Click HERE to Download Episode's Discussion Guide    Guest Resources Mentioned   Green Building Education Services (GBES) Green Building Matters Podcast Trello Skema AI LEED Version 4 WELL (Certification)    Scaling UP! H2O Resources Mentioned  AWT (Association of Water Technologies)  Scaling UP! H2O Academy video courses  Submit a Show Idea  The Rising Tide Mastermind 402 Game-Changing AI Tools: Matt Montellione's Insights 004 It's Not Easy Being Green! 032.5 The One That Takes You to AWT's 2018 Technical Training 410 Unleash Your Pricing Power: Casey Brown's ‘Fearless Pricing' Revolutionizes Business Value   Water You Know with James McDonald   Question: What scaling index was developed in 1936 to predict the scaling potential of calcium carbonate in drinking water systems?    2025 Events for Water Professionals  Check out our Scaling UP! H2O Events Calendar where we've listed every event Water Treaters should be aware of by clicking HERE. 

New WARC data models potential scenarios for media channels and key global markets as a result of economic upheaval. WARC's Alex Brownsell and James McDonald go through the numbers.WARC Subscribers can read the full Q1 2025 Global Ad Forecast update here.

"Scaling is like debt—it's always better to prevent it than to clean it up later." Phosphate plays a crucial role in Industrial Water Treatment, yet it remains one of the most misunderstood chemicals. In this Pinks and Blues episode, Trace Blackmore revisits phosphate chemistry and its application in cooling systems, corrosion prevention, and scale inhibition. Breaking Down Phosphate Chemistry Phosphate exists in different forms, each with specific applications in water treatment.  Orthophosphate (PO4³⁻): The simplest and most reactive form, used for corrosion inhibition.  Polyphosphate: A longer chain of phosphate molecules that can hydrolyze into orthophosphate.  Organic Phosphates: Phosphate compounds bonded with organic molecules, often used in scale inhibition.  Total Phosphate: A combination of all phosphate types in a system.  Phosphate Testing – What Every Water Pro Should Know Phosphate levels must be carefully monitored to maintain system integrity. Trace explains:  Why the orthophosphate test is the most reliable for phosphate analysis.  How to convert different phosphate forms to orthophosphate for testing.  The difference between the Molybdate Vanadate Method (yellow test) and the Ascorbic Acid Method (blue test).  The importance of accurate dilution and testing procedures to prevent measurement errors. Challenges and Considerations in Phosphate Treatment  Biological Growth: Phosphate serves as a nutrient, promoting microbial growth if not controlled properly.  Environmental Regulations: Certain facilities may have phosphate discharge limits.  Calcium Phosphate Scaling: High temperatures and improper phosphate dosages can cause severe scaling issues. Best Practices for Phosphate Management  Monitor carbon and alkalinity levels to determine the best phosphate formulation.  Use stability indices (e.g., Ryzner Stability Index, Langelier Saturation Index) to predict scale formation.  Adjust treatment strategies based on pH levels and system conditions to avoid unintended scale buildup.  Always verify environmental discharge limits when using phosphate-based treatments. Mastering phosphate chemistry and testing techniques ensures better system performance, cost efficiency, and regulatory compliance. This episode empowers water professionals to optimize their approach to phosphate-based treatments. Tune in to learn practical strategies for optimizing phosphate levels, preventing scale, and ensuring system efficiency. Stay engaged, keep learning, and continue scaling up your knowledge!  Timestamps  03:16 – Trace Blackmore shares the importance of Quarterly Planning for Business and Personal Goals 06:30 – Upcoming Events for Water Treatment Professionals   08:20 – Water You Know with James McDonald  12:03 – Introduction to Phosphate and Its Role in Water Treatment  18:31 – Understanding Phosphate Forms: Orthophosphate, Polyphosphate, Organic Phosphate  21:32 – Phosphate as a Corrosion & Scale Inhibitor in Cooling Systems 34:33 – Testing Phosphate: Why the Orthophosphate Test is Key  51:37 – The Importance of Understanding Water Chemistry Before Selecting Treatment Plans Connect with Scaling UP! H2O  Submit a show idea: Submit a Show Idea  LinkedIn: in/traceblackmore/  YouTube: @ScalingUpH2O    Click HERE to download Episode's Discussion Guide    Scaling UP! H2O Resources Mentioned  Audible  12 Week Year  Ep 046 The One About Phosphate Testing  Ep 024 The One With All the Questions Taylor Technologies Test Procedures:  Phosphonate, Azole AWT (Association of Water Technologies) Scaling UP! H2O Academy video courses Submit a Show Idea Phosphonates Water You Know with James McDonald  Question: What is the process called to evaluate the performance and efficiency of a water softener by taking regeneration water samples, measuring their salinity, and interpreting their results? 2025 Events for Water Professionals  Check out our Scaling UP! H2O Events Calendar where we've listed every event Water Treaters should be aware of by clicking HERE.   

Charlotte Greenway filling in for Nick and joined by Timeform's Dan Barber to look ahead to the action from Aintree, kicking off tomorrow. Dan and Charlotte take a deep dive into Friday's declarations and pick out a couple of eye catchers as well as those that have something to prove. Charlotte also gets the low down on Hewick from Shark Hanlon ahead of his National bid whilst Max McNeill discusses his exciting Aintree team, including his two in the big one. Ben Atkins joins for our weekly P2P segment ahead of tomorrow's Foxhunters at Aintree with reflection on yesterday's Hunter Chase sponsored by the podcast on which Olive Nicholls shares her delight after victory aboard Viroflay. Finally, off to Dubai where JA McGrath is in situ and has news of the Hong Kong runners as well as a catch up with James McDonald on his mounts.

Charlotte Greenway filling in for Nick and joined by Timeform's Dan Barber to look ahead to the action from Aintree, kicking off tomorrow. Dan and Charlotte take a deep dive into Friday's declarations and pick out a couple of eye catchers as well as those that have something to prove. Charlotte also gets the low down on Hewick from Shark Hanlon ahead of his National bid whilst Max McNeill discusses his exciting Aintree team, including his two in the big one. Ben Atkins joins for our weekly P2P segment ahead of tomorrow's Foxhunters at Aintree with reflection on yesterday's Hunter Chase sponsored by the podcast on which Olive Nicholls shares her delight after victory aboard Viroflay. Finally, off to Dubai where JA McGrath is in situ and has news of the Hong Kong runners as well as a catch up with James McDonald on his mounts.

"Strategic planning is creating certainty in an uncertain world." – Tim Fulton Strategic planning is essential for success in any business, yet many companies either overlook or struggle with the process. In this episode, Trace Blackmore welcomes back Tim Fulton, President of Small Business Matters, to explore the fundamentals of strategic planning and how businesses can chart their course for success.   Tim shares insights on why strategic planning matters, how to involve the right people, and how to create a plan that actually works. Whether you're a business owner, manager, or part of a team, this episode provides valuable takeaways to help you navigate uncertainty, set clear objectives, and execute effectively. Why Strategic Planning is Critical Strategic planning helps businesses stay focused in an unpredictable world. By analyzing past performance, assessing the present, and setting future goals, companies can adapt to changing markets, industry trends, and emerging technologies like AI. Who Should Be Involved in Strategic Planning? Successful planning requires input from leaders and key employees at different levels. Involving the right people fosters collaboration, avoids blind spots, and ensures that the plan is practical and actionable, rather than created in isolation. The SWOT Analysis: A Tool for Understanding Your Business A SWOT analysis (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats) helps businesses understand their position. Identifying strengths and weaknesses within the company, along with external opportunities and threats, provides a clearer strategy for growth and risk management. Executing the Plan & Measuring Success A strategic plan is only effective if it's executed properly. Setting SMART goals (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound) ensures clarity, while quarterly reviews and color-coded tracking (Green, Yellow, Red) help teams monitor progress. Methods like the 12-Week Year and OKRs (Objectives & Key Results) keep businesses on track and accountable. Why Having a Third-Party Facilitator Can Make a Difference An outside facilitator brings an objective perspective, helping businesses stay focused and engaged during planning. Leaders who try to both facilitate and participate often struggle to balance these roles. Involving an expert improves discussions and strengthens team buy-in. Common Mistakes in Strategic Planning & How to Avoid Them Many businesses fail in strategic planning due to poor communication, lack of follow-through, and ignoring potential risks. A strong plan must be actively maintained throughout the year to ensure long-term success. Tim Fulton joined Trace Blackmore to deliver essential insights into strategic planning, emphasizing clarity, involvement, accountability, and the power of facilitation. This episode challenges listeners to create meaningful strategies, fostering organizational resilience and success in any environment. Stay engaged, keep learning, and continue scaling up your knowledge!   Timestamps    3:00 – Trace Blackmore encourages listeners to help spread the word about Scaling UP! H2O Podcast by sharing it with their colleagues and network 07:00 – Upcoming Events for Water Treatment Professionals 09:12 – Water You Know with James McDonald 11:00 – Interview starts: Welcoming back Tim Fulton 13:12 – What is Strategic Planning? 15:44 – Who should be involved in Strategic Planning? 23:22 – Why should companies strategically plan 34:58 – Best time for strategic planning 40:00 – Objective and Key Results (OKRs) explained   Quotes  "No weigh-in equals no buy-in.” - Patrick Lencioni, quoted by Trace “Fear is the biggest obstacle preventing businesses from strategic planning.” - Tim Fulton “Not having a plan is a plan for failure.” - Trace Blackmore “Doing strategic planning without a facilitator is like being quarterback and referee at the same time.” - Tim Fulton Connect with Tim Fulton Phone: (678) 427- 9436 Email: timfulton@hotmail.com Website: smallbusinessmattersonline.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/timcfulton/  Click HERE to Download Episode's Discussion Guide     Guest Resources Mentioned The Meeting by Tim Fulton Measure What Matters by John Doerr Traction by Gino Wickman    Scaling UP! H2O Resources Mentioned AWT (Association of Water Technologies) Scaling UP! H2O Academy video courses Submit a Show Idea The Rising Tide Mastermind 022 The One with Tim Fulton   280 The One About Retaining Top Talent   289 The One About A SWOT Analysis with A Twist   368 Adapting to the New Workforce: Attracting Top Talent 164 The One With Chris McChesney What the Heck Is EOS? A Complete Guide for Employees in Companies Running on EOS by Gino Wickman   The 12 Week Year   The Five Dysfunctions of a Team by Patrick Lencioni Water You Know with James McDonald  Question: What do you call the attraction of water molecules to each other that gives water its unique properties, such as a high surface tension, high boiling point, and ability to dissolve many substances?   2025 Events for Water Professionals Check out our Scaling UP! H2O Events Calendar where we've listed every event Water Treaters should be aware of by clicking HERE.  

"Be the iron fist that keeps your water flowing clean and clear." - Trace Blackmore Welcome back to another insightful Pinks & Blues episode of Scaling UP! H2O! In this episode, host Trace Blackmore dives into the fascinating world of iron in water treatment systems. While iron is essential for life, it can be a major problem in industrial water systems, leading to corrosion, equipment damage, and inefficiencies. This episode unpacks the science behind iron, testing methods, and practical strategies for managing its impact.  Understanding the Iron Triangle  To effectively manage iron in water systems, it's important to understand its different forms. Trace explains the Iron Triangle, breaking down the differences between elemental iron (Fe), ferrous iron (Fe2+), and ferric iron (Fe3+). He discusses how iron moves through water systems and why recognizing these distinctions is critical for water treatment professionals.  How to Test for Iron Accurately  Proper testing is key to managing iron levels. Trace details the phenanthroline method, a common technique used to measure iron concentrations in water. He provides best practices for accurate testing, discusses common interferences like molybdates and nitrites, and explains how to adjust testing methods to ensure reliable results. Corrosion and Iron's Impact on System Longevity  Iron is a major contributor to corrosion in water systems, and Trace explains why steel corrodes so easily. He covers the role of corrosion inhibitors and the importance of filtration systems in preventing excessive iron buildup. By managing iron effectively, professionals can protect equipment, reduce maintenance costs, and improve system efficiency.  Math in Action: Calculating Total Iron in a System  For those who love applying real-world math, Trace walks through the process of calculating total iron in pounds within a system. He explains how this calculation can help justify maintenance decisions and provide a compelling reason for clients to invest in proper water treatment solutions. Takeaways: Why Iron Management Matters  This episode is packed with valuable insights for water professionals looking to improve their approach to iron management. From understanding the science behind iron to implementing better testing and corrosion prevention strategies, this discussion is designed to help you stay ahead in your field.  Have a water treatment question? Want to hear a topic covered in a future Pinks & Blues episode? Submit your ideas at ScalingUpH2O.com/showideas  —your input helps shape future episodes! And remember, iron might be essential for our bodies, but in water systems, it's a force to be reckoned with. Mastering iron control is key to maintaining system efficiency and preventing costly damage. Be the iron fist that keeps your water flowing clean and clear!    Stay engaged, keep learning, and continue scaling up your knowledge!  Timestamps    03:20 – Upcoming Events for Water Treatment Professionals 06:44– Water You Know with James McDonald  09:35 – Trace talks about Iron Historical Figure  15:28 – Iron that's in Water Systems 17:39 – Understanding Corrosion & How It Impacts Your System  18:24 – The Iron Triangle  19:58 – The Phenanthroline Method   Quotes  “Steel is the most recycled material on this planet.”   “If you're treating your tests like a task, you're missing the magic of this industry.” “Iron might be essential for our bodies, but it can be a real troublemaker when it's dissolved in the water in our systems, so don't let iron catch you off guard.”  Connect with Scaling UP! H2O  Submit a show idea: Submit a Show Idea  LinkedIn: in/traceblackmore/  YouTube: @ScalingUpH2O    Click HERE to Download Episode's Discussion Guide     Scaling UP! H2O Resources Mentioned  AWT (Association of Water Technologies)  Scaling UP! H2O Academy video courses  Submit a Show Idea  The Rising Tide Mastermind   How its Made Steel by How it's Made Show   400 Celebrating 2024 and 400 Episodes!  399 Pinks and Blues: The Science of Serial Dilution  397 Pinks and Blues: How to look at your tests    Water You Know with James McDonald  Question: What is a plastic or rubber device that seals the outside of a reverse osmosis membrane against the inside wall of the pressure vessel to prevent feedwater from bypassing around the membrane element? 2025 Events for Water Professionals  Check out our Scaling UP! H2O Events Calendar where we've listed every event Water Treaters should be aware of by clicking HERE. 

“Be curious because the more you learn, the more exciting it is. Hit those challenges head on.” - Ryan Reimer  Adiabatic humidification is revolutionizing climate control, offering an energy-efficient way to maintain humidity and cooling in industrial and commercial spaces. But what exactly is adiabatic humidification, and how does it compare to traditional isothermal methods? In this episode, host Trace Blackmore welcomes Ryan Reimer of  Hydrotrue, to break down the mechanics, benefits, and critical applications of adiabatic humidification. Together, they explore how this low-energy cooling method is reshaping healthcare, data centers, museums, and more, helping industries achieve optimal indoor air quality while reducing energy consumption.  Introduction to Adiabatic Humidification  The episode kicks off the episode about how adiabatic cooling utilizes natural evaporation to improve energy efficiency in climate control. It highlights how water professionals can integrate this technology to enhance industrial operations. Adiabatic vs. Isothermal Humidification – Understanding the Difference Ryan Reimer explains the key distinctions between adiabatic (evaporation-based) and isothermal (steam-based) humidification methods. While isothermal requires an external heat source, adiabatic systems leverage ambient air energy for humidification, reducing operational costs.   Industries That Benefit from Adiabatic Cooling  From hospitals and healthcare facilities to data centers, museums, and commercial spaces, adiabatic humidification is making waves. Ryan dives into real-world applications and how industries can optimize their HVAC systems for better efficiency.  Efficiency & Water Treatment Considerations  How high-purity water enhances humidification system performance  Preventing scale buildup with the right water treatment solutions  The impact of Legionella risk mitigation and best hygiene practices for humidifiers  Maintenance & Seasonal Considerations  Water treatment professionals know that humidification systems require ongoing maintenance. Ryan shares best practices for:  Preventing scale buildup  End-of-season cleaning & lay-up procedures  Optimizing energy savings through smart system design  The Bottom Line – Why Adiabatic Humidification is the Future  With rising energy costs and increasing sustainability initiatives, industries are transitioning to adiabatic cooling. Ryan and Trace highlight the long-term benefits, cost savings, and system reliability this technology offers.  Stay engaged, keep learning, and continue scaling up your knowledge!   Timestamps   03:06 - Trace Blackmore shares about the significance of π Day  07:26 - Upcoming events in Water Industry  14:27 - Water You Know with James McDonald  17:13 - Interview with Ryan Reimer of Hydrotrue  20:00 - What is adiabatic humidification, and how does it work?  36:31 - Addressing Legionella risks and ensuring hygienic humidification    Quotes  “As water treaters, stagnant water is usually not our best friend as it relates to dead legs.” - Ryan Reimer “One important step after completing the acid cleaning process is using a neutralizer component.” - Ryan Reimer  “Always have an open mind to what is in a facility. You never know what you're going to run into and what the facility's goals are and challenges are. And just be curious.” - Ryan Reimer “Find a circle that can help build you up and one that you can help build up. That's how we make our lives better. That's how we make this industry better.” - Trace Blackmore "Adiabatic humidification allows us to use the energy already in the air – making it an extremely efficient solution for climate control." – Ryan Reimer    Connect with Ryan Reimer  Phone: 612-655-4162   Email: rreimer45@gmail.com ryan.reimer@hydrotruewater.com   Website: https://hydrotruewater.com/   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryan-reimer-2768a144/   Click HERE to Download Episode's Discussion Guide    Guest Resources Mentioned   DriSteem Water Fundamental Handbook   The Way of Kings, Stormlight Archive Book 1 by Brandon Sanderson The Words of Radiance, Stormlight Archive Book 2 by Brandon Sanderson Oathbringer, Stormlight Archive Book 3 by Brandon Sanderson  VDI 6022  ASHRAE Standard 170  Mycometer   Scaling UP! H2O Resources Mentioned  AWT (Association of Water Technologies)  Scaling UP! H2O Academy video courses  Submit a Show Idea  The Rising Tide Mastermind   World Vision's Global 6K for Water EVAPCO Training Literature: Adiabatic Cooling    Water You Know with James McDonald   Question: What is the molar mass of calcium carbonate?    2025 Events for Water Professionals  Check out our Scaling UP! H2O Events Calendar where we've listed every event Water Treaters should be aware of by clicking HERE. 

"If you're excellent at what you do, you've got to be paid like you're excellent." – Casey Brown  Ever wondered if you're truly getting paid what you're worth? In this unmissable episode of Scaling UP! H2O, we bring back Casey Brown, speaker, founder of Boost Pricing and author of the newly released Fearless Pricing. Known for her electrifying talks and actionable insights, Casey dives deep into how businesses can build confidence, charge their true value, and break free from the fear of pricing discussions.  From her journey as an engineer to becoming a pricing powerhouse, Casey's passion for helping businesses thrive shines through. Whether you're in sales, management, or leadership, this episode will leave you inspired and ready to tackle your next negotiation.   Highlights include:  The Psychology of Pricing: Why fear dominates most pricing conversations—and how to overcome it. Pricing Integrity: Learn how setting and sticking to fair, defensible prices can boost trust and long-term success. Handling Objections with Confidence: Proven strategies to turn pricing objections into opportunities. The "Hot Sauce" Analogy: Discover how to identify overlooked products or services that can deliver high profits with minimal pricing sensitivity. Unexercised Pricing Power: How to unlock hidden revenue by testing and refining your pricing strategy. Role-Playing for Success: How procedural memory and consistent practice can transform your sales team's confidence and results.  Bottom Line  This episode is your ultimate guide to fearless pricing, equipping you with the tools and mindset to boost profitability and set yourself apart from the competition. Don't miss the chance to learn from Casey's expertise and take your business to the next level!  Click play, take notes, and start commanding the value your business deserves. Don't let fear control your profits—listen now to gain the confidence and strategies you need to succeed. Stay engaged, keep learning, and continue scaling up your knowledge!    Timestamps    1:44 - Trace asks intriguing questions about the price of everyday items like gas and hot sauce to set the stage for a deeper discussion on pricing   02:23 - Events for Water Professionals   04:20 - Water You Know with James McDonald   05:35 - Interview with Casey Brown, speaker, founder of Boost Pricing, and the author of the newly released book ‘Fearless Pricing'   13:05 - How small discounts can devastate your bottom line  32:23 - Why debriefing every deal is critical for refining your pricing strategy  33:41 - The “Hot Sauce Analogy”  45:00 – Final Thoughts and Takeaways    Quotes  “We can't know, unless we try. The world is your Petri dish. “- Casey Brown  “The how is training and coaching and concepts; the why is rotted in the mission to help people who are excellent be paid like they're excellent.” - Casey Brown  “We can't fix pricing or profitability through calculation. We must address the biggest obstacle to success, which is FEAR.” - Casey Brown  “Pricing is generally the area of greatest fear and greatest discomfort.” - Casey Brown  “In absence of financial pricing integrity, unearned discounts hurt trust.” - Casey Brown  “The way to get comfortable doing something uncomfortable is to practice it.” - Casey Brown  "Every business has hot sauce and gasoline—products where pricing sensitivity varies drastically. Identify yours." – Casey Brown    Connect with Casey Brown  Phone: 614-679-7999  Email: casey@boostpricing.com   Website: www.Caseybrown.com    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/caseybrownboost/   Subscribe to Casey Brown's Newsletter: https://www.boostpricing.com/signup    Click HERE to Download Episode's Discussion Guide   Guest Resources Mentioned   Good to Great: Why Some Companies Make the Leap...And Others Don't by Jim Collins  They Ask You Answer by Marcus Sheridan  Outlive by Peter Attia  Essentialism by Greg McKeown  The Psychology of Money by Morgan Housel  Fearless Pricing by Casey Brown    Scaling UP! H2O Resources Mentioned  AWT (Association of Water Technologies)  Scaling UP! H2O Academy video courses  Submit a Show Idea  The Rising Tide Mastermind  363 Pricing Boost: Get Paid Well For Your Excellence with Casey Brown  The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen R. Covey    Water You Know with James McDonald  Question: What is the conversion between parts-per-million and milligrams per Liter?   2025 Events for Water Professionals  Check out our Scaling UP! H2O Events Calendar where we've listed every event Water Treaters should be aware of by clicking HERE.

"Water is a limited resource, and in this refinery, every gallon saved is a win for sustainability." – Juan Meneses Water is a critical resource in industrial operations, and improving efficiency is a top priority for many companies. In this episode of Scaling UP! H2O, returning guest Juan Meneses, District Manager at Nalco Water, an Ecolab Company, discusses how a Western refinery optimized its water footprint using advanced treatment technologies.  This episode is packed with insights on water conservation strategies, sustainability goals, and the role of advanced monitoring technologies like 3D TRASAR in maximizing operational efficiency while minimizing environmental impact.  Key Topics Covered:  The Challenges of Water Usage in Refineries  This refinery faced rising water costs and increasing sustainability pressures. With water sourced from the city, costs were projected to rise by 5% annually, with wastewater discharge costs climbing even faster. Finding ways to reduce water consumption while maintaining efficiency was a top priority.  Optimizing Cooling Towers for Maximum Water Efficiency  Cooling towers presented a key opportunity for conservation. The team aimed to increase cycles of concentration to reduce water waste without compromising system integrity. By using 3D TRASAR technology, they monitored real-time conditions, allowing precise adjustments to prevent scaling and corrosion.  Implementing Smart Water Treatment Strategies  To sustain higher cycles, the refinery introduced dual cathodic inhibitors and high-charge polymers, enhancing corrosion and scale control. pH adjustments ensured effective biocide performance while maintaining system reliability. This strategic shift allowed for significant reductions in water and chemical use.  Results and Lessons Learned  By increasing cycles from 5.5 to 9.3, the refinery saved 52 million gallons of water annually while cutting wastewater discharge and chemical consumption. The biggest takeaway? Real-time monitoring and proactive pH control are essential for maintaining efficiency at higher cycles.  Best Practices for Industrial Water Optimization  Collaboration between plant operators and water treatment professionals is key. Regular monitoring, data-driven decision-making, and advanced automation tools can help refineries maximize efficiency while meeting sustainability goals. Water conservation is good for business and the environment. Could your facility save millions of gallons? Explore advanced water treatment strategies today. Learn more at ScalingUpH2O.com. Stay engaged, keep learning, and continue scaling up your knowledge!  Timestamps   02:14 – Upcoming Events for Water Treatment Professionals   08:02 – Water You Know with James McDonald  10:20 – Interview with returning guest Juan Meneses, District Manager at Nalco Water about Western Refinery Water Efficiency   11:06 – The biggest water challenges faced by the refinery  12:11 – Strategies for optimizing water footprint and sustainability goals  14:07 – How 3D TRASAR and modeling software improve water efficiency  24:50 – Water savings achieved: 52 million gallons saved  29:21 – Best practices for communicating water optimization goals  Quotes  “The way that we can reduce water in the cooling tower is to increase cycle of concentration.” – Juan Meneses "A good implementation of this project, if you can, with good and advanced monitoring and automation. You can optimize your chemical treatment by modeling the condition.” - Juan Meneses “About the teamwork, foster collaboration and communication with the customer are key component of that and focus on sustainability.” - Juan Meneses   Connect with Juan Meneses  Phone: 337.309.9619  Email: jmeneses@ecolab.com  Website: Reinventing the Way Water is Managed | Nalco Water  LinkedIn: Juan A. Meneses | LinkedIn  Click HERE to Download Episode's Discussion Guide    Guest Resources Mentioned   CH 2029 Western Refinery Optimizes Water Footprint Using 3D Trasar Technology for Cooling Modeling Tools paper  Crucial Conversations Tools for Talking When Stakes Are High, Second Edition: Kerry Patterson, Joseph Grenny, Ron McMillan, Al Switzler   Good Profit: How Creating Value for Others Built One Of The World's Most Successful Company by Charles Koch  The 4 Disciplines of Execution: Achieving Your Wildly Important Goals by Sean Covey (Author), Chris McChesney (Author), Jim Huling (Author)      Scaling UP! H2O Resources Mentioned  AWT (Association of Water Technologies)   IWC (International Water Conference)      Scaling UP! H2O Academy video courses  Submit a Show Idea  The Rising Tide Mastermind   405 Cooling Water Innovation: Harnessing Wastewater for Sustainability 164 The One With Chris McChesney    Water You Know with James McDonald  Question: What effect will the water temperature have on softener backwash during regeneration?    2025 Events for Water Professionals  Check out our Scaling UP! H2O Events Calendar where we've listed every event Water Treaters should be aware of by clicking HERE.   

What gets measured gets improved. But without a process, how do we know what to improve?  In this brand-new episode, Trace Blackmore, the host of Scaling UP! H2O Podcast and the CEO and Founder of Blackmore Enterprises, dives deep into the power of processes in industrial water treatment. Learn why creating and documenting processes is essential for consistency, collaboration, and success. Hear Trace's personal journey of process discovery, practical steps for implementation, and how processes can make your work more efficient and fun. Plus, a new "Water You Know" segment by James McDonald challenges your water treatment knowledge. Don't miss this insightful episode filled with actionable takeaways! Trace Blackmore introduces the value of processes, sharing his love for procedures and why they are vital for the industrial water treatment community. From his early experiences at McDonald's to his current role, Trace illustrates how processes drive consistency and success. The Power of Processes in Water Treatment  Discover how processes are the backbone of efficiency in the water treatment industry, guiding consistency and measurable improvements across daily tasks and large-scale operations.  A Practical Framework for Success  Learn actionable steps to create, document, and refine processes that save time, enhance accuracy, and drive collaboration within your team or solo operations.  Lessons from Episode 397: Categorizing for Clarity  Explore Trace's approach to categorizing and establishing testing procedures, from Episode 397, and see how small tweaks can yield significant efficiency gains.  From McDonald's to Water Treatment: The Art of Rigor  Trace shares personal anecdotes from his first job at McDonald's, revealing how the company's focus on procedural rigor inspired his passion for creating and following efficient workflows.  Behind the Scenes of Scaling Up H2O  Get a rare glimpse into the processes that power the Scaling Up H2O podcast. From pre-recording preparation to publishing episodes, see how structured workflows ensure quality and consistency.  Why Everyone Needs Procedures—Even Solo Professionals  Trace busts the myth that procedures are only for teams. Learn how structured processes can help solo professionals work smarter, not harder, and achieve consistent results every time. Trace emphasizes that processes are the backbone of success in water treatment and other industries. He encourages listeners to take actionable steps in documenting one procedure this week and to celebrate improvements. Processes transform chaos into clarity. By embracing structured methods, you not only improve operations but also create opportunities for growth and collaboration. Stay engaged, keep learning, and continue scaling up your knowledge! Timestamps   04:37 -The power of sharing ideas at water industry events. 08:13 - Water You Know with James McDonald 10:51 - Trace's love for procedures and his McDonald's experience. 16:49 - The importance of measuring processes for improvement. 28:28 - Steps to create and document a process. 46:27 - Closing thoughts: Processes bring fun and efficiency to the workplace. Quotes  “Because of my love of procedures, I've been able to create things and enlist the help of others to work collaboratively, ensuring we're all on the same page” - Trace Blackmore Connect with Scaling UP! H2O  Submit a show idea: Submit a Show Idea LinkedIn: in/traceblackmore/ YouTube: @ScalingUpH2O Click HERE to Download Episode's Discussion Guide Scaling UP! H2O Resources Mentioned  AWT (Association of Water Technologies) Scaling UP! H2O Academy video courses Submit a Show Idea The Rising Tide Mastermind  398 Water Treatment Project Success: Essential Steps for New Facilities and Expansions  397 Pinks and Blues: How to look at your tests  Water You Know with James McDonald  Question: At atmospheric pressure, a pound or kilogram of water that is converted to steam will expand by approximately how many times? 2025 Events for Water Professionals  Check out our Scaling UP! H2O Events Calendar where we've listed every event Water Treaters should be aware of by clicking HERE.

Olympic high jump champion Hamish Kerr was named Sportsman of the Year, ahead of kayak cross Olympic gold medallist Finn Butcher, triathlete Hayden Wilde, footballer Chris Wood and the jockey James McDonald. Kerr spoke to Ingrid Hipkiss.

On today's episode, the Privacy Commissioner will now investigate whether Census and Covid-19 vaccination data shared with Manurewa Marae was misused for election purposes, Russia and the US have concluded their first direct talks since Moscow's invasion of Ukraine 3 years ago, and Olympic high jump champion Hamish Kerr was named Sportsman of the Year, ahead of kayak cross Olympic gold medallist Finn Butcher, triathlete Hayden Wilde, footballer Chris Wood and the jockey James McDonald.

Nick is joined by Racing Post senior writer Lee Mottershead to discuss the latest from around the racing world. On today's show - with Pic d'Orhy aiming to give him a first Grade One in a year - Paul Nicholls has fire in his belly as he assesses the strength of his team, new arrangements for sourcing his horses, and his competitive spirit being fuelled by "mini-me" Dan Skelton. Compelling stuff. Equally compelling is the interview with James McDonald about Romantic Warrior's bid to win the Saudi Cup. Plus, Godolphin's Alex Merriam on Rebel's Romance and the Amir Sword, QREC handicapper Neil Jennings on this weekend's action, and Guillermo Arrizkoreta - Spain's leading trainer - on conquering Dubai.

What if the moments we consider mundane or accidental hold the power to reshape our lives?  In this week's Scaling UP! H2O Podcast, we welcome back Adam Tank, water industry leader and author of Luck by Design. Known for his thought-provoking insights and transformational ideas, Adam takes us on a journey to uncover how intentionality and awareness can turn everyday moments into catalysts for success. Whether you're navigating career choices or striving for personal growth, this episode is your roadmap to designing the life you've always wanted. In this candid and engaging conversation, Adam shares the inspiration behind Luck by Design, a book that reveals how seemingly small moments—what he calls “catalyst moments”—can create a ripple effect of positive change. He opens up about his own transformative experiences, including a fateful missed bus stop in Rio that changed his career path forever. Through his stories, Adam challenges us to look closer at our own lives and recognize the opportunities hiding in plain sight. This episode reminds us that success isn't a matter of chance—it's a matter of choice. Whether it's writing a life-changing postcard, stepping out of your comfort zone, or simply taking a moment to reflect, small, intentional actions can create lasting impact. And as Adam's journey shows, the connections we nurture and the opportunities we embrace shape not just our lives, but the lives of those around us. Your next big opportunity might already be in front of you—it's up to you to see it, seize it, and act on it. In this episode, Adam Tank proves that designing your own success is less about waiting for luck and more about creating it. Are you ready to take charge of your moments? Stay engaged, keep learning, and continue scaling up your knowledge! Timestamps  01:36 - Trace Blackmore shares Valentine's Day origin and learning takeaway 03:03 - Upcoming Events for Water Treatment Professionals    07:09 - Interview with Adam Tank, co-founder and chief customer officer at Transcend, water industry leader and author of Luck by Design 27:16 - Adam discusses the "chapstick moment" and how small moments can lead to life-changing decisions 55:10 - Water You Know with James McDonald Quotes  "These catalyst moments have tremendous power to help you achieve remarkable things in life." – Adam Tank "The sum of your life is the quality of the relationships you build." – Adam Tank "It's not about what happens to you, but what you choose to do with it." – Adam Tank "A small act, like sending a postcard, can have ripple effects beyond what you can imagine." – Trace Blackmore Connect with Adam Tank Phone: 913-940-4381 Email: atank@transcendinfra.com Website: Transcend | Design Automation Software for Critical Infrastructure  ThinkTank | Adam Tank LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adamtank/  Click HERE to Download Episode's Discussion Guide Guest Resources Mentioned   Luck By Design: The Science And Serendipity Of A Well-Lived Life by Adam Tank  Think And Grow Rich: The Secret To Wealth Updated For The 21st Century by Napoleon Hill  Scaling UP! H2O Resources Mentioned  AWT (Association of Water Technologies) Scaling UP! H2O Academy video courses Submit a Show Idea  The Rising Tide Mastermind  001 A New Podcast for Water Treaters  181 The One Where Water Geeks Talk About Social Media  279 The One With the ‘Water We Talking About?' Hosts  343 Master Water Marketing with Adam Tank Water You Know with James McDonald  Question: What is the proper regeneration sequence of operation for a co-current regenerated sodium zeolite softener system? 2025 Events for Water Professionals  Check out our Scaling UP! H2O Events Calendar where we've listed every event Water Treaters should be aware of by clicking HERE. 

Nick is joined by Racing Post senior writer Lee Mottershead to discuss the latest from around the racing world. On today's show - with Pic d'Orhy aiming to give him a first Grade One in a year - Paul Nicholls has fire in his belly as he assesses the strength of his team, new arrangements for sourcing his horses, and his competitive spirit being fuelled by "mini-me" Dan Skelton. Compelling stuff. Equally compelling is the interview with James McDonald about Romantic Warrior's bid to win the Saudi Cup. Plus, Godolphin's Alex Merriam on Rebel's Romance and the Amir Sword, QREC handicapper Neil Jennings on this weekend's action, and Guillermo Arrizkoreta - Spain's leading trainer - on conquering Dubai.

In this episode, Trace Blackmore and Mark T. Lewis, Certified Water Technologist of Southeastern Laboratories, Inc. dive into practical tips for managing your business effectively, particularly in the water treatment industry. They share eight essential strategies for mastering self-management, staying organized, adapting to challenges, and aligning personal goals with professional responsibilities. Mark highlights the importance of time management, account management, stress management, and personal development, offering actionable insights to help professionals navigate the challenges of managing their businesses while maintaining balance and efficiency.  Points to Highlight  Self-Management Skills: Learning to control your time, stress, and motivation is crucial for achieving business goals.  Account Management: Focus on building long-term relationships with clients instead of just acquiring new business.  Stress Management: Identifying and managing stress is key to maintaining productivity and motivation.  Adaptability: Flexibility is vital in handling unexpected changes and managing multiple priorities effectively.  Decision Making: Understand the long-term implications of your decisions before acting on them.  Goal Alignment: Make sure your daily tasks are aligned with your bigger business objectives for sustained growth.  Personal Development: Continuous learning and self-improvement are fundamental to business success.  Mentorship: Having a mentor or support system can help you grow personally and professionally.  Conclusion  Trace and Mark's insights in this episode give you the tools to tackle the complexities of business management head-on. Whether it's optimizing your time, managing client relationships, or staying motivated, these tips are designed to boost your efficiency and help you thrive. Stay engaged, keep learning, and continue scaling up your knowledge! Don't miss Part 2, where we'll dive deeper into additional strategies that will help you manage your business to new heights!  Timestamps  02:20 – Upcoming Events for Water Treatment Professionals  05:15 – Water You Know with James McDonald 07:05 – Interview with Mark T. Lewis, Certified Water Technologies of Southeastern Laboratories Inc about strategies and tips on managing a business 14:56 – Importance of Time Management and Self-Management 17:11 – Stress management and staying motivated through challenges  Quotes  “End each day knowing that it was an improvement upon the last.” - Trace Blackmore "One of the skills that we've got to have is take what we have and run with it.” - Mark T.  Lewis  “If you're not managing your time, that's the only thing that you are never going to get back.” - Trace Blackmore  Connect with Mark Lewis  Phone: 704.322.5406 Email: MLewis@SELaboratories.com Website: https://www.selaboratories.com/ LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/mark-lewis-01a3b56 Click HERE to Download Episode's Discussion Guide Guest Resources Mentioned   Drop by Drop: Articles on Industrial Water Treatment by James McDonald The NALCO Water Handbook, Fourth Edition by an Ecolab Company NALCO Water  Scaling UP! H2O Resources Mentioned  Audible (free month with this link)  AWT (Association of Water Technologies) Scaling UP! H2O Academy video courses Submit a Show Idea The Rising Tide Mastermind 031 The One with Mark Lewis 034 The Other One With Mark Lewis, CWT 101 The One with Colin Frayne, CWT 102 The Other One with Colin Frayne, CWT 112 The One Where Trace Is Interviewed By Mark Lewis 149 The One About Some of the Lesser-Used Technologies The Speed of Trust by Stephen M.R. Covey   Water You Know with James McDonald  Question: What is the typical percent bed expansion during a water softener backwash?   2025 Events for Water Professionals  Check out our Scaling UP! H2O Events Calendar where we've listed every event Water Treaters should be aware of by clicking HERE. 

Description:    In this Roofing Road Trips, Heidi J. Ellsworth sits down with James McDonald and Maureen Greeves of Weatherproofing Technologies Inc, a subsidiary of Tremco to talk about identifying talent for service and maintenance.  WTI is one of the leading companies in building envelop service and maintenance.  Known for their TremCare program that protects billions of square feet of roofing globally, WTI is constantly looking for talented service technicians.  This road trip will highlight the history and mission of WTI and how they approach attracting talent to the roofing industry, specifically for service and maintenance technicians.  These jobs are growing in popularity and an important part of the roofing industry's future.  Learn more at RoofersCoffeeShop.com! https://www.rooferscoffeeshop.com/   Are you a contractor looking for resources? Become an R-Club Member today! https://www.rooferscoffeeshop.com/rcs-club-sign-up   Sign up for the Week in Roofing! https://www.rooferscoffeeshop.com/sign-up    Follow Us!   https://www.facebook.com/rooferscoffeeshop/   https://www.linkedin.com/company/rooferscoffeeshop-com   https://x.com/RoofCoffeeShop   https://www.instagram.com/rooferscoffeeshop/   https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCAQTC5U3FL9M-_wcRiEEyvw   https://www.pinterest.com/rcscom/   https://www.tiktok.com/@rooferscoffeeshop   https://www.rooferscoffeeshop.com/rss     #RoofersCoffeeShop #MetalCoffeeShop #AskARoofer #CoatingsCoffeeShop #RoofingProfessionals #RoofingContractors #RoofingIndustry 

What if you could help write the rules that keep us all safe?  In this episode, Trace Blackmore sits down with the passionate and highly knowledgeable Patsy Root, Senior Manager Government Affairs at IDEXX Water, to dive into the nitty-gritty of Legionella legislation. With a career fueled by her love of water—whether it's sailing, scuba diving, or protecting public health—Patsy brings an inspiring perspective to the table. She doesn't just talk about the problem; she's actively working to solve it. Here's what you'll get from this episode: The Current State of Legionella Legislation: Patsy provides a comprehensive overview of Legionella regulations across the U.S., Canada, and Europe. She dives into case studies comparing New York and Quebec as well as France and other European nations, highlighting the successes and challenges of their approaches. Scientific Insights into Legionella: Discover the biological complexity of Legionella, its various species, and why Legionella pneumophila stands out as the most significant threat. Learn why focusing on the right indicators is crucial for effective water management. Best Practices for Water Treaters and Lawmakers: Patsy shares actionable recommendations for water treaters to improve public health while maintaining cost-efficiency. From adopting ASHRAE 188 guidelines to advocating for better legislation, this episode is packed with practical advice. Proactive vs. Reactive: Ever wonder why so many water regulations only come after a crisis? Patsy talks about how the water treatment industry—and you—can help shift the conversation to prevention before it's too late. The Power of Collaboration: Patsy emphasizes the value of networking through industry committees like AWT's Legislative and Regulatory Committee and how collaboration fosters innovation and knowledge sharing. Practical Tips for Water Treaters: If you're a water treater looking to stay ahead of the game, Patsy shares actionable advice on how to implement cost-effective, efficient water management plans that actually protect public health.  The Bottom Line  This episode isn't just about rules—it's about solutions. Whether you're a water treater, a building manager, or just someone who wants to understand what's really in your water, Patsy's insights will change the way you think about managing risk. Your Next Move  Check out the Legionella Resources page at ScalingUpH2O.com for even more tools and insights from industry leaders. Share this episode with your team or clients to spark conversations that could save lives—and don't forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode. Let's work together to build a safer, healthier future, one drop at a time. Stay engaged, keep learning, and continue scaling up your knowledge!  Timestamps   03:04 - Trace announces a poll to assess the value of reading event details on the podcast and guides listeners to the events page on the website. 04:20 - Water You Know with James McDonald 05: 53 - Interview with Patsy Root, Senior Manager Government Affairs of IDEXX Water about Patsy's paper on global Legionella regulations and the importance of learning from international practices. 11:24 – Legionella Legislation Overview 39:49 - Practical Recommendations for Water Treater Quotes  “It is the best way to network and grow the community around you of subject matter experts - by volunteering.” - Patsy Root “What we need to do with each other is we need to understand where things are happening, what's happening, and how much of that we should consider leveraging - as best practice.” - Patsy Root  Connect with Patsy Root  Phone: 207-523-0835  Email: Patsy-root@IDEXX.COM  Website: https://www.idexx.com/en/water/   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/idexx-laboratories/   Guest Resources Mentioned   Data and Case Study of Effective Legionella Regulations by Patsy Root  NASEM's Management of Legionella in Water Systems (2019)  MD 15161 - 2013 Control of Legionella in Mechanical Systems Assessment of monitoring approaches to control Legionella pneumophila within a complex cooling tower system by Michele Prevost et al  The Legionella collagen-like protein employs a distinct binding mechanism for the recognition of host glycosaminoglycans by Garnett et al The 5 bacterial indicators used by WHO were published in 2013 by Dufour et al The 5 bacterial indicators used by WHO covered by KWR Publication starting on Page 54 – Section 7.4.4. Scaling UP! H2O Resources Mentioned  AWT (Association of Water Technologies) Scaling UP! H2O Academy video courses Submit a Show Idea The Rising Tide Mastermind  348 Credentials and Codes: Plumbing Strategies Against Legionella  ASHRAE Guideline 12-2020: Managing the Risk of Legionellosis Associated with Building Water Systems  ASHRAE Standard 188-2018, Legionellosis: Risk Management for Building Water Systems (ANSI Approved) ASHRAE Standard-188-2021, Building Water Management Plans – Summary ANSI/ASHRAE Standard 514, Risk Management for Building Water Systems: Physical, Chemical, and Microbial Hazard Water You Know with James McDonald  Question: What is the process called when you mathematically correct the impacts of changes in feedwater quality, temperature, and pressure on reverse osmosis membrane data as compared to a baseline?   2025 Events for Water Professionals  Check out our Scaling UP! H2O Events Calendar where we've listed every event Water Treaters should be aware of by clicking HERE.

Welcome to 2025! Episode 401 of the Scaling Up H2O Podcast is here to help you kick-start the new year with valuable insights, energy-saving tips, and strategies for personal and professional growth. Host Trace Blackmore explores how small changes, like switching to LED lighting or investing in solar power, can save energy and cut costs for National Cut Energy Costs Day. He also dives deep into effective planning methods, the importance of relationships, and how to maximize your potential in 2025. National Cut Energy Costs Day  Learn practical ways to reduce energy usage at home and work, from switching to LED lighting and upgrading HVAC systems to exploring solar power installations. Trace also shares how his team utilizes energy audits for increased efficiency. Planning for 2025 Success  Discover actionable strategies for effective planning, including prioritizing big goals (the "big rocks") and aligning your weekly schedule with your most important tasks. Nurturing Relationships for Long-Term Success  Trace shares heartfelt advice from his grandfather about the value of relationships and how they surpass everything else in importance. He encourages listeners to reflect on their roles and take actionable steps to improve their connections. This episode is packed with resources for water treatment professionals, including updates on AWT events, Certified Water Technologist (CWT) prep courses, and actionable tools to help you raise the bar in the water industry. Whether you're looking for tips to improve your work-life balance or stay ahead in your field, this episode is your comprehensive guide to success in 2025. Stay engaged, keep learning, and continue scaling up your knowledge! Timestamps:   05:20 - Trace Blackmore shares an Overview of National Cut Energy Costs Day and the importance of Conserving energy and water 21:32 - Water You Know with James McDonald 45:19 - Upcoming Events for Water Treatment Professionals  Connect with Scaling UP! H2O  Submit a show idea: Submit a Show Idea LinkedIn: in/traceblackmore/ YouTube: @ScalingUpH2O  Scaling UP! H2O Resources Mentioned  Audible (free month with this link) AWT (Association of Water Technologies) Scaling UP! H2O Academy video courses Submit a Show Idea The Rising Tide Mastermind 397 Pinks and Blues: How to look at your tests  394 Visibility and Value: Enhancing Sustainability in Water Treatment 360 Unlocking Profitable Sustainability: Winning RFPs and Making a Positive Impact 339 Jane Kucera's Reverse Osmosis Masterclass 363 Pricing Boost: Get Paid Well For Your Excellence 375 Legionella Awareness: Your Questions Answered by Trace Blackmore Big Rocks by Stephen R. Covey  Water You Know with James McDonald  Question: What is the approximate pH where phenolphthalein changes between pink and clear? 2025 Events for Water Professionals  Check out our Scaling UP! H2O Events Calendar where we've listed every event Water Treaters should be aware of by clicking HERE. 

"Take a victory lap today and celebrate all the wonderful things you've done this year." – Trace Blackmore  In this milestone 400th episode, host Trace Blackmore l reflects on the podcast's incredible journey and the achievements of 2024. From personal accomplishments to listener engagement and standout episodes, this celebration highlights the growth of the Scaling UP! Nation. Scaling UP! H2O by the Numbers: What 2024 Taught Us  Trace shares how the podcast grew across countries like Australia, Ireland, and New Zealand while continuing to top charts on Apple and Spotify. Personal Triumphs: From Scuba Diving to Off-Roading Adventures  This year wasn't just about podcasting. Trace shares personal milestones, including certifying his 1,000th scuba diver, losing 20 pounds, and embracing off-roading adventures in his wife's Jeep. Behind the Mic: Guests, Stats, and Records  With 51 guests in 2024, 35% were women, and 65% were men. This diverse lineup included highlights like the Women of Water (Episode 380) and Legionella Awareness Month series. The podcast also broke a record with six guests in a single episode. From Legionella to Boilers: Most Shared Episodes of 2024  Episodes like Are Legionella Cases Truly on the Rise? (Episode 376) and Steam Boiler Essentials (Episodes 353 & 354) delivered actionable insights that sparked industry discussions. AWT Innovation Award: A Shared Honor This year, Scaling UP! H2O was honored with the 2024 AWT Innovation Award at the AWT Annual Conference. Recognizing the podcast's impact on advancing the water treatment industry, this award is a testament to the dedication of the Scaling UP! Nation. The Timeless Impact of Episode 179  Kathleen Edelman's Temperaments episode remains the most downloaded in podcast history, offering lasting lessons on improving communication and relationships. The Scaling UP! Nation Community: More Than a Podcast  More than a podcast, Scaling UP! H2O is a movement driven by its listeners. With 10,000 LinkedIn followers and a growing global presence, the Scaling UP! Nation continues to make waves in the water treatment industry. A Look Ahead: What's Next for 2025  Trace teases what's to come, including new contributions from James MacDonald and an even greater focus on delivering high-quality content for water treatment professionals. Powered by Our Partners: Sponsors Who Believe in the Mission  This podcast thrives thanks to sponsors who believe in its mission. Their support ensures the production of valuable, high-quality episodes. Here's to the Next Chapter, Together  Trace thanks everyone who made this milestone possible, celebrating 400 episodes as a shared achievement with the Scaling UP! Nation. Together, we're shaping the future of water treatment.  And as always, we're scaling up knowledge, so we don't scale up our systems. Timestamps:   01:10 - Trace reflects on the podcast's journey, shares gratitude for the Scaling UP! Nation, and highlights achievements while offering forward-looking insights. 04:25 - Upcoming Events for Water Treatment Professionals  08:39 – Trace shares his personal milestones from 2024 09:22 – Drop by Drop with James McDonald 14:49 – Trace delivers the Podcast Highlights of 2024 43:44 - Gratitude for Sponsors, Guests, and Listeners 45:18 – A Look Ahead to 2025 46:21 – Episode Wrap-Up and New Year Wishes Connect with Scaling UP! H2O Submit a show idea: Submit a Show Idea LinkedIn: in/traceblackmore/ YouTube: @ScalingUpH2O Scaling UP! H2O Resources Mentioned AWT (Association of Water Technologies) Scaling UP! H2O Academy video courses The Rising Tide Mastermind  World Vision Global 6k  001 A New Podcast for Water Treaters 179 Another One that Teaches Us to Communicate Better with Others  348 Credentials and Codes: Plumbing Strategies Against Legionella  350 Polymer Perspectives: Understanding Copolymer Innovations in Water Treatment  351 Maximizing Water's Potential: Tech and Water Treaters in Perfect Harmony  353 Steam Boilers: Essential Checks, Part 1  354 Steam Boilers: Essential Checks, Part 2  355 Backflow Prevention: Safeguarding Water Quality  376 Are Legionella Cases Truly on the Rise? Insights on Legionella Trends and Prevention  380 The WOW Effect: Women Leading Transformation in the Water Industry  390 Multimeter Troubleshooting: Your Guide to Accurate Diagnostics, Part 1  391 Multimeter Troubleshooting: Your Guide to Accurate Diagnostics, Part 2  Drop by Drop with James In today's episode, I have a quote. The quote is, “The lines are painted wrong.” Who said that and what did this person mean?  That was my Dad. He used to tell us that as kids. You see, my Dad took pride in his driving abilities, and when he would not park the straightest in a parking space, we kids would take great delight in pointing it out to him. His reply was always, “The lines are painted wrong.” Oddly enough, we LOVED this answer! We would argue back, “No they aren't! You parked crooked!” He would just shake his head, smile, and calmly insist, “The lines are painted wrong.” In my career as an industrial water treatment professional, this quote has always stuck with me. There are most certainly times when the lines are painted wrong. The control ranges may be wrong, too tight, or too broad. The lines are painted wrong. The expectations from a client or manager may be unrealistic. The lines are painted wrong. The finger often gets pointed at the water treatment professional first when things go wrong with water-related equipment, even when it's not our fault. The lines are painted wrong. While it would not have been appropriate for my Dad to repaint the lines in a parking lot, it can be appropriate for us to repaint the lines at times in industrial water treatment. Control ranges can be appropriately adjusted. Expectations can be diplomatically realigned. Blame can be diffused or redirected with listening, discussion, facts, and patience. Sometimes, it takes a little thinking outside the box to realize when the lines are painted wrong. I have my Dad to thank for helping me see this at such a young age, and I can't wait to tell him that now tens of thousands of people have just learned from him, too.   Events for Water Professionals Check out our Scaling UP! H2O Events Calendar where we've listed every event Water Treaters should be aware of by clicking HERE.

Having a product does not mean it's going to work well. Having a product and having the experience to use it properly, that's the determining factor. - Trace Blackmore  Dive into one of Trace Blackmore's favorite formats: the "Pinks and Blues" episode! In this special installment, Trace tackles real-world questions from water treatment professionals like you, offering clear, practical solutions rooted in chemistry, strategy, and years of experience. From mastering serial dilutions to making the most of leftover competitor products, this episode is all about equipping you with the tools to excel in your field. Managing Leftover Competitor Products in Accounts  Trace discusses the common challenge of customers asking water treatment professionals to use leftover chemicals they've already paid for. He highlights the risks of taking these products back to your facility, including potential costly disposal fees, and provides practical advice on how to manage and utilize these products effectively on-site.  Serial Dilution: Explanation and Equation  Trace introduces the dilution formula C1 × V1 = C2 × V2, a fundamental equation for performing accurate dilutions. He provides a detailed, step-by-step guide to creating dilutions in both lab and field settings, enabling water treatment professionals to test and effectively utilize mystery products left behind by competitors.   Importance of Deionized (DI) Water in Test Kits  Trace explains the critical role of DI water in performing accurate dilutions and removing interferences during tests. He emphasizes the necessity of always carrying sufficient DI water in the field for tasks like dilutions, triple rinsing equipment, and managing high-concentration samples. Ensuring DI water availability is key to maintaining clean and reliable testing processes. Testing Mystery Products  Trace recommends testing mystery products for key components such as phosphate (total, organic, and inorganic) and Azol levels to determine their composition. Use the product's safety data sheet (SDS) or similar documentation to identify expected ranges and compare test results. These insights help calculate appropriate dosages and ensure effective usage of leftover products. Benefits of Proper Product Management Using leftover chemicals on-site provides several key advantages:  Cost Savings: Eliminates expensive disposal fees for unused products. Customer Satisfaction: Reduces customer expenses by utilizing materials they've already paid for.  Sustainability: Promotes greener practices by minimizing waste and maximizing resource efficiency. Professional Growth: Savings from proper management can support funding for training, certifications, and industry conferences, contributing to career development opportunities. Be Part of the Discussion We want to hear from you! Your contributions help shape the Scaling Up H2O podcast and make it even more valuable for the community.  Submit Questions & Feedback: Your input drives our content. Send us your questions to be featured in future episodes.  Share Your Success Stories: Let us know how this episode has helped you improve your water treatment practice or solve a challenging problem. Stay engaged, keep learning, and continue scaling up your knowledge! Timestamps: 07: 25 - Upcoming Events for Water Treatment Professionals 12:24 - Trace answers listener questions about managing leftover competitor products in water treatment accounts 15:32 – Trace explains Serial Dilution: Step-by-Step Guide 45:23 - Drop by Drop with James McDonald  Connect with Scaling UP! H2O Submit a show idea: Submit a Show Idea LinkedIn: in/traceblackmore/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/scalinguph2o/ YouTube: @ScalingUpH2O Scaling UP! H2O Resources Mentioned Audible (free month with this link) AWT (Association of Water Technologies) Scaling UP! H2O Academy video courses The Rising Tide Mastermind 12 Week Year: Get More Done in 12 Weeks than Others Do in 12 Months by Brian P. Moran & Michael Lennington Drop by Drop with James In today's episode, I have a challenge for you. The challenge is…check your safety equipment. Seriously, check the condition as well as any expiration dates. I personally was shocked to find out that hard hats have an expiration date on them, but they do. It does make sense, though, because plastic can get brittle over time, especially sitting in a hot vehicle. Brittle plastic probably won't protect your noggin as well as it should. Are your safety glasses all scratched up or dirty? Do they obstruct your view? Do you wear your earplugs more than once, and do they need to be replaced? How about your steel-toed shoes, face shields, aprons, gloves, and other safety equipment? Will they protect you when you need them to? Take this challenge as your excuse to inspect them all and replace them as needed. Your family, friends, colleagues, Trace, and I all want you to be safe as you practice the noble profession of industrial water treatment!  Events for Water Professionals Check out our Scaling UP! H2O Events Calendar where we've listed every event Water Treaters should be aware of by clicking HERE.

"Don't be afraid to ask questions early and often when working with engineering firms or general contractors on your water treatment program... Getting it right the first time is the easiest and least painful way to a long-term successful water treatment program." – Walker Burnette In this episode of the Scaling Up H2O podcast, host Trace Blackmore sits down with Walker Burnette, Water Treatment Consultant at Southeastern Laboratories to explore the importance of early involvement in water treatment projects for new and expanding facilities. Together, they uncover essential lessons, challenges, and best practices that can make or break long-term success in industrial water management.   A Chance Encounter That Sparked a Career  Walker Burnette's journey into the water treatment industry began unexpectedly when he reconnected with Steve Tuning, a lifelong family friend and his father's college roommate, at his former workplace. This chance meeting led to a conversation that launched his career in water treatment. Now, Walker's former employer has become his client, showcasing the unique blend of personal history and professional growth that shaped his path.  Bridging Water Treatment Gaps in Construction  Walker Burnette addresses the common oversight of water treatment during new and expanded construction projects. In North Carolina's fast-growing landscape, Walker has seen firsthand how rushed timelines can lead to missed steps in planning. Sharing lessons from successes and pitfalls, this discussion aims to highlight essential practices to ensure water treatment is prioritized and integrated effectively from the start.  What steps do you take to set yourself up for success in the bid process?  Walker Burnette emphasizes the importance of understanding a facility's unique requirements when bidding on water treatment projects. Recognizing that each system may need specialized solutions, he advises focusing on value rather than competing solely on price. While not every bid will be successful, prioritizing quality and comprehensive proposals leads to long-term success and better client outcomes.  Why do you need to have relationships with people?  Walker Burnette highlights that building strong relationships is key in the competitive world of water treatment project bidding. Helping clients understand the value behind different approaches can set you apart. When clients receive various bids, confusion can arise about the differing strategies. Having a trusted relationship allows you to step in, clarify the benefits, and guide them through making an informed decision. Establishing a reputation with engineering firms and past collaborators can often lead to winning projects for the right reasons—trust and proven expertise. Prioritizing Communication for Water Treatment Success  Clear communication and proactive planning in water treatment projects is essential. He recommends reviewing P&IDs (Piping and Instrument Diagrams) early to find cost-saving opportunities and streamline processes. Staying engaged throughout the project ensures inspections and coordination, preventing last-minute issues and promoting smooth execution.  Checklist for Water Treatment Project Planning and Execution:  1. Identify System to be Treated: List systems requiring treatment and needed equipment/chemicals.  2. Verify Lead Times: Confirm equipment lead times and communicate any delays to the end user.  3. Set Project Timelines: Track key delivery dates and installation milestones.  4. Plan for Pipe Cleaning/Passivation: Ensure pipes are flushed or treated before startup to avoid issues.  5. Communicate with Stakeholders/End Users: Keep the end user informed and ensure all steps are completed for a smooth project launch.  The Critical Step of Passivation  Passivation is presented as one of the most important phases of commissioning new systems. Walker and Trace discuss why passivation is often overlooked, the consequences of skipping it, and how to effectively advocate for this essential step.   Considering All Stakeholders and EH&S in Water Treatment Projects  Understanding the needs of all stakeholders, including engineers, contractors, operators, and end-users, is essential in water treatment projects. Involving the Department of Environmental Health and Safety (EH&S) early ensures chemicals are compatible, stored correctly, and disposed of safely. Walker emphasizes addressing these considerations from the start positions water treatment professionals as proactive consultants, avoiding last-minute issues and disruptions to project timelines.  Integrating New Equipment in Existing Facilities  Adding new equipment to an existing facility requires careful planning. Unlike new buildings, end-user involvement is higher as the facility is already operational. He stresses that new systems often need isolation and separate treatment before integration, as simply connecting and activating them can lead to issues. Proper preparation and communication are key to successful integration.  Join the Conversation  Have any thoughts on today's episode? Join the Scaling Up H2O community by sharing your experiences and insights on proactive water treatment. Connect with us on LinkedIn, share your takeaways, or join the discussion on industry challenges and best practices.  Stay engaged, keep learning, and continue scaling up your knowledge!  Timestamps:    01:30 - Trace Blackmore shares discussion on Friday the 13th superstitions and their origins, including historical and cultural references. 05:05 – Trace Blackmore's encouragement to review lessons from 2024 and plan for 2025, mentioning Brian Moran's “12 Week Year” 07:09 - Upcoming Events for Water Treatment Professionals  09:25 - Interview with Walker Burnette, Water Treatment Consultant at Southeastern Laboratories about water treatment considerations during new and existing facility constructions, and the importance of early involvement in the planning process. 50:57 - Drop by Drop with James McDonald  Quotes  "Passivation might be one of the most important parts of starting up your water treatment systems—it ensures the longevity and proper function of your equipment." – Walker Burnette "The only person we can fix is ourselves. It's easy to blame externally, but we need to ask the right questions and guide our customers to success." – Trace Blackmore "Being proactive and communicating effectively is key. When you're adaptable, you're more equipped to lead projects to success rather than being a reactive passenger." – Walker Burnette "Learning to have hard conversations with customers is a difficult skill, but once you do, you'll never regret it." – Walker Burnette  Connect with Walker Burnette  Phone: 336.207.7086  Email: wburnette@selaboratories.com  Website: https://www.selaboratories.com/   Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/walker-burnette-cwt-57076465/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/southeastern-laboratories-inc-/   Read or Download Walker Burnette's Press Release HERE  Guest Resources Mentioned   Extreme Ownership by Jocko Willink and Leif Babin Comfort Crisis by Michael Easter  Scaling UP! H2O Resources Mentioned  Audible (free month with this link) AWT (Association of Water Technologies) Scaling UP! H2O Academy video courses Submit a Show Idea The Rising Tide Mastermind  12 Week Year: Get More Done in 12 Weeks than Others Do in 12 Months by Brian P. Moran & Michael Lennington  Drop by Drop with James In today's episode, I'm on my soapbox. My soapbox topic is…conductivity versus TDS…or Total Dissolved Solids. You might have expected something a little meatier, but conductivity and TDS are often used interchangeably. FAR too often they are. They are NOT the same thing though. Conductivity and TDS may be RELATED, but they measure two COMPLETELY different things. Conductivity measures the ability of a water solution to conduct an electrical current. It is quick and easily automated, only requiring a conductivity probe and a meter. Total Dissolved Solids or TDS, on the other hand, is the concentration of dissolved solids in a water solution. Measuring the TDS requires evaporating a volume of water to dryness and weighing the solids that remain. TDS takes a lot more time and labor to perform than a conductivity test.  So how are conductivity and TDS related? The conductivity of water is determined by the type and concentration of dissolved solids. Low TDS solutions typically have lower conductivities. High TDS solutions typically have higher conductivities. There can be a relationship between the two. If the water quality is consistent, conductivity can provide a practical way to monitor the TDS, but this relationship should be verified regularly.  Some may be thinking, “But my handheld meter displays the answer in TDS. What gives?” Your handheld meter is doing math internally to convert from conductivity, which is measuring, to TDS. It is not ACTUALLY measuring TDS. As a rule of thumb in the industrial water samples we often see, the actual TDS is typically 65-75% of the measured conductivity. This can vary, however, depending upon the ions in the water. Events for Water Professionals  Check out our Scaling UP! H2O Events Calendar where we've listed every event Water Treaters should be aware of by clicking HERE. 

Dr. James McDonald, Commissioner of the New York State Department of Health, discusses substance misuse and overdose prevention as part of ASTHO's Legislative Prospectus series; Dr. Lindsey Kato, Director for the Division of Public Health with the State of Alaska, tells us about the journey for accreditation from the Public Health Accreditation Board; and PHIG has its own newsletter now. ASTHO Web Page: Substance Misuse and Overdose Prevention ASTHO Blog Article: Alaska Division of Public Health's Accreditation Success PHIG Newsletter  

Guest Bios Show Transcript https://youtu.be/u94-UCMB14kThe fact that abuse occurs at all in churches is horrific. What's worse—often, the abusers are protected rather than exposed. And the victims bear crushing trauma of both the abuse and the cover-up. But there is a better way. On this edition of The Roys Report, internationally renowned psychologist Diane Langberg joins Julie to discuss her new book, When the Church Harms God's People. Not only does the book explain why churches are failing miserably in this area, it also explains how to fix the problem. Known around the world for her expertise and care as a Christian leader, Dr. Langberg has counseled many victims of high-profile ministry leaders. She knows the evils of sexual abuse, domestic abuse, and rape committed by church predators—and now confronts this devastating evil. In our discussion based on her latest book, which is available this month to supporters of The Roys Report, Dr. Langberg unveils what she's learned about how churches cause harm. Why do Christian communities often foster unhealthy leaders who end up hurting rather than protecting God's people? She also offers hope for the future, describing how churches can reflect Christ—not just in what they teach, but also in how they care for themselves and others. This insightful conversation offers a small preview of what we'll be hearing from Dr. Langberg at Restore Conference coming up in February, as she is one of more than a dozen leading Christian voices who will share. Listen in to hear her heart, with wisdom from walking God's narrow path for many decades. Guests Dr. Diane Langberg Dr. Diane Langberg is a globally recognized psychologist with 53 years of clinical experience working with trauma patients. She has trained caregivers from six continents in responding to trauma and the abuse of power. For 29 years she directed her own practice in the suburbs of Philadelphia. Now, in partnership with Dr. Phil Monroe, Langberg, Monroe & Associates continues this work which includes more than a dozen therapists. Dr. Langberg has authored numerous books including Redeeming Power and When the Church Harms God's People. Learn more at her website. Show Transcript SPEAKERS JULIE ROYS, DR. DIANE LANGBERG   JULIE ROYS  00:04 Internationally recognized psychologist, Dr Diane Langberg, has encountered the crushing trauma of sexual abuse, domestic abuse and rape and its cover up. Even more tragic, she’s encountered all of this within the church,. But as she explains today, there is a better way.   JULIE ROYS  00:21 Welcome to The Roys report, a podcast dedicated to reporting the truth and restoring the church. I’m Julie Roys, and today Dr Diane Langberg joins me to discuss her new book, When the Church Harms God’s People. The fact that abuse occurs at all in the church is horrific. But as listeners to this podcast know, abuse is happening in the church, and too often, the perpetrators are protected, and the victims bear the brunt of not just the abuse but the cover. In her new book, Dr Langberg confronts this horrific evil, and she unveils what she’s learned about how churches cause harm and why Christian communities often foster unhealthy leaders who end up hurting rather than protecting God’s people. She also offers hope for the future, describing how churches can reflect Christ, not just in what they teach, but in how they care for themselves and for others.   JULIE ROYS  01:12 We’ll get to this insightful interview in just a moment, but first, I’d like to thank the sponsors of this podcast, The RESTORE Conference, and Marquardt of Barrington. If you’re someone who’s experienced church hurt or abuse, there are few places you can go to pursue healing. Similarly, if you’re an advocate, counselor or pastor, there are a few conferences designed to equip you to minister to people traumatized in the church, but The RESTORE Conference this February 7 & 8 in Phoenix, Arizona is designed to do just that. Joining us will be leading abuse survivor advocates like Mary Demuth and Dr David Pooler, an expert in adult clergy sexual abuse. Also joining us will be Scott McKnight, author of A Church Called Tov, Diane Langberg, a psychologist and trauma expert, yours truly and more. For more information, just go to RESTORE2025.COM. Also, if you’re looking for a quality new or used car, I highly recommend my friends at Marquardt of Barrington. Marquardt is a Buick GMC dealership where you can expect honesty, integrity, and transparency. That’s because the owners there, Dan and Kurt Marquart, are men of integrity. To check them out just go to BUYACAR123.COM.   JULIE ROYS  01:12 Well again, joining me today is Dr Diane Langberg, an internationally recognized psychologist with more than five decades of clinical experience with trauma victims. She’s also trained caregivers on six continents in responding to trauma and the abuse of power. She’s also written several books, including her latest, When the Church Harms God’s People. So Diane, welcome. It is such a pleasure to have you join me.   DIANE LANGBERG 02:58 Thank you. It’s an honor to be here.   JULIE ROYS  03:00 I’ve said this to you before in person. I don’t know that I’ve ever said it in a podcast, but I do consider you the matriarch of the abuse survivor community and someone who is not just special because of your trauma experience, but I think because of your faith that has endured really trudging through some amazingly toxic stuff. So again, just such an honor and a pleasure to be with you. And I know last year at RESTORE you weren’t able to be with us because you were writing this book. So I am thrilled that you’re done and able to be with us at the RESTORE coming up in Phoenix.   DIANE LANGBERG 03:39 I’m thrilled to be done too.   JULIE ROYS  03:43 I hope you appreciate that we’re going to be in Phoenix instead of Chicago when it’s February. So your book talks about when the church harms God’s people. And obviously the church is supposed to be a place of healing and of comfort, but it ceased to be this in some cases. And I know there’s a myriad of reasons for why this has happened, but if you could kind of put your finger on ‘here’s the main reason that I see contributing to what we’re seeing in the church today’, what would you say that is?   DIANE LANGBERG 04:15 So, rather than the love in those places, we are protecting a system that we think is truth and makes us safe and all those kinds of things. But last I checked, Jesus didn’t die for systems,   JULIE ROYS  04:34 So often it’s the shepherd that is at fault for preying on the sheep. I mean, here we have a shepherd that’s supposed to protect sheep, and instead, we have shepherds who are preying on them, which is just the antithesis of who Jesus is, the antithesis of who they are supposed to be. But sometimes, in fact, probably in 100% of these cases, when there’s a. shepherd who is not really a shepherd, but he’s a wolf parading as one, it’s deception that’s happening. Why is it, how can we tell whether a shepherd who can be incredibly charming, right? and  say all the right words and all those things? How can we tell if this person is actually a shepherd, or if he’s a wolf in sheep’s clothing?   DIANE LANGBERG 05:25 Well, I think the way that Jesus put it is by their fruits you will know them. I think that we have fallen into the trap, I suppose, of measuring fruit by success, which, if we measure fruit by success, then Jesus failed.   JULIE ROYS  05:45 So what would you say fruit is?   DIANE LANGBERG 05:47 It’s likeness to him. I mean when we’re taught about the fruit of the Spirit, it means someone who loves. It means someone who treats others with respect and kindness and protects the sheep because of their preciousness, eternally to the shepherd.   JULIE ROYS  06:10 And yet, so often it is true  when I get pushback for the type of reporting that we do, exposing someone who has been a very bad shepherd, that is often what I hear, what about the fruit? And when they say fruit, they mean the numbers, right?   DIANE LANGBERG 06:29 Yeah. Number and money and fame. That’s fruit which is not fruit of Christ.   JULIE ROYS  06:35 One of the questions that I get asked a lot, and I think it varies from person to person. But they ask, were these predator pastors? Did they begin bad, and they just conned people the whole time into their positions? Or are these people who maybe had good intentions to begin with, maybe were good people to begin with, and the pressures of the system began to change who they were. What would you say to those who asked that question?   DIANE LANGBERG 07:14 Well, I think the first honest thing I would say is I don’t know, but I think that there is a spectrum of some are this way. Some are this way. Some start out really intending to do good in things. But part of what runs through, I think a lot of it, is that certainly the Christians in general, and places like seminaries and things do not put a lot of expectation or whatever on who you are. It’s what you know how to do and do well, and how well it is happening and how big it is. But again, if you go back to the Gospels and look at the things that Jesus spoke, you know so much of it is about character. And by their fruit you will know them. And the fruit he’s talking about is not how many members you have in your pews. It’s your character, it’s your heart, it’s the way you speak, it’s the way you treat the least of these, those are all the things that measured him, and they are to measure us. I think we’ve lost our way, and I think that’s a global issue.   JULIE ROYS  08:28 Do you think too the mega church movement, and I’ve been asked this as well, are mega churches just inherently bad? And I’m like, Well, no, I mean, there are some mega churches that do-good work, and there’s people who have been saved through these mega churches, who have been discipled through them. But I think for the pastor, I have seen that it seems like all the pressures in a mega church are in the wrong direction. I’m curious what you would say that you’ve seen with our churches today, and whether they help spiritual formation for these leaders, or whether they seem to work in the opposite direction.   DIANE LANGBERG 09:09 The pressure is terrible, the expectations are extravagant, and everything has God’s name on it. So if you aren’t meeting the pressure, and you aren’t bringing in lots of people, and people aren’t talking about how wonderful you are, you’re not doing a good job. If those are the criteria, then Jesus didn’t do a good job. And so the care of the shepherd,  the personality of the shepherd, the heart that not is just given in words, but indeed. All of those things show us who a shepherd is, and we are measuring by outcome. I mean again, you go back to the cross or to the resurrection, there were not very many people about looking for him. I think that we love the institution, and it  feels safe to us, and it feels like God must be on our side, because we have 3000 members or whatever, when, in fact, he’s called us to love and to patience and to self-control and things like that. That’s how we look like him, how we serve him, and how we woo others to him.   JULIE ROYS  10:38 Well it is centered around a celebrity so often. And this can happen in large churches, mega churches. This can happen in small churches, where the pastor can be the big fish in the small pond, just as much as you know that the celebrity pastor in this this big institution. And I think when we complain  about the pastor or about the institution, we also have to look at ourselves, don’t we? because we’re the consumers of these type of churches. We are the ones that give money to these churches. What  responsibility do we have as lay people to ensure that our churches are better?   DIANE LANGBERG 11:19 I’m not even sure that I would start thinking about it that way, because to ensure our churches are better means to ensure a system is good, and Jesus didn’t die for systems. So the question is number one for me, on my face, asking him where I am not like him to teach me that and to teach me how to become more like Him in those ways. Part of what doing that and living there, not just doing it once or something, but living in that space with God also sharpens our eyes and our ears, and we begin to recognize things that may be painted beautifully but look nothing like Christ. I think, until that happens, the system is evidence of God, which is not whether it’s a church or a political one, or whatever it is, none of that is his fruit. It’s who we are in the places that we live that is to be his fruit.   JULIE ROYS  12:31 Something I’ve really appreciated about you, and I’m hearing it in this interview, but it’s also in your writings. One of my favorite book actually, of yours is that little. It’s just a tiny paperback book on meditations for counselors. And I have found that it’s not just meditations for counselors, it’s meditations really for anybody who’s in work that does take them through some of the grossest evil that’s out there, and how to protect your soul. And I so appreciate that. I know I read it. I said this at the last RESTORE,, because I went through a very difficult time prior to it, and I read  those meditations, I went through that book twice, just because I found that I needed to protect my soul, so carefully, because, again, the pressures are just not in the right direction. And I know my own flesh  when I encounter these systems, makes me so angry, and you can’t, not when you, when you hear the way that people have abused.   DIANE LANGBERG 13:40 Jesus cracked whips and turns tables over. So I don’t think he likes it much either.   JULIE ROYS  13:46 And that’s something that I say regularly, and people are like, You sound angry, and I’ll be like, Why aren’t you angry? Like this should make us angry genuinely. Yet at the same time, Satan will use that as an opportunity in our own hearts. And you talk about in your book about the role that deception plays. This was so good, and let’s start with the predator himself. Right? How deception works with someone who is again preying on the sheep rather than protecting the sheep. Often, I wonder if they even admit to themselves what they’re doing.   DIANE LANGBERG 14:29 Often not. I think that, I mean, obviously we are deceptive creatures. There’s no exceptions. The only exception was Christ, and so we carry that around. And that’s, I mean, it was started in Eden. I didn’t do it. That girl did it.   JULIE ROYS  14:53 Blame it on the Lord.   DIANE LANGBERG 14:54 Right, of course, but it’s been in us since the beginning. And so our go to thing is when somebody points the finger at us about anything, whether it’s true or not, our first thing is to take care of ourselves. That’s our automatic response, and if what they have given us is true, we have to make it untrue. There’s some way we want to make it untrue because it disturbs us. If we make it true, we don’t want them to think about that. It’s going to hurt our job. It’s going to do whatever. So I don’t think we have really understood the depth of that and its claws on us. And I think that that makes us very vulnerable.   JULIE ROYS  15:47 Yeah, I’m still stunned. James McDonald, who I  reported on back. I mean, it started in 2018 but then he was fired from his church in 2019 and most of the elders stepped down. He is out there now today, even after assaulting a 59-year-old woman and breaking her femur, he is still out there proclaiming his innocence, and even with that blaming it on PTSD that he got from me reporting and this 59-year-old woman supposedly triggered, but by the way, just curious of your professional opinion on PTSD being triggered in a situation like that, to actually assault somebody?   DIANE LANGBERG 16:29 It’s a great cover up on their side.   JULIE ROYS  16:33 And what’s shocking is he got a professional counselor  in court to say that.   DIANE LANGBERG 16:40 If someone has been doing terrible things and actually really begins to see it and is hit by what they have done and grieving by what they have done, having them look like they have PTSD would be expected, but it’s at their own hands that it’s there. It’s not you who did this or said this, therefore I feel this which many abusers would do.   JULIE ROYS  17:06 and it is interesting how the blame often goes everywhere, except on the one person who’s caused it. Let’s talk about deception now with the abused and even with systems. I mean, it does always, I find it difficult to wrap my head around although I know it happens and I believe it happens, but the idea that somebody could be sexually abusing you, and yet you think that this is somehow okay spiritually, like you’re a Christian and  you’re able to believe the lies that are told you. Talk about that dynamic and how that plays into it.   DIANE LANGBERG 17:51 Well, I would say first of all that I don’t think we have really very much understanding of how deep deception is in all of us. No exceptions. No exception is Jesus Christ, and we do it quickly and easily. And anybody who’s raised children realizes it takes about two seconds after birth of them to figure it out. But you don’t have to teach them. It’s there. And so the way that we think is flawed, and I don’t think we start with that premise. We know other people where it’s flawed, but  we’re doing the right thinking, and we don’t expose or look at ourselves in those ways. So I think we have very little understanding of the depth of deception in individual humans, often on a daily basis, and then how that shapes and controls systems which only reinforce the deception that we have because we like the system. So it’s here since the beginning. It’s got deep roots.   DIANE LANGBERG 19:20 When I was a young girl, one of my grandmothers lived in the mountains of West Virginia, and I was staying with her for a couple of days, and she said to me, go downstairs to the cellar and bring up the clothes that we were washing. So I do, and we’re talking about a dirt floor cellar and the whole thing. So I go down into the cellar to get the clothes, and I started crying and screaming, and my grandmother came running, and I came running up the stairs. She turned on the lights, and she said, Watch. And then she said to me, if you turn on the lights, the rats will run. And that came back to me some years ago; in terms of deception, in organizations, in myself, in leaders, in whatever, turning on the lights. And that’s what Jesus did and does –  rats run! And then we have to make a choice. Number one, are we going to turn on the light? which most of us are very uncomfortable. I mean, I don’t need him. I get that turn on the light, and they will run.   JULIE ROYS  20:32 So good. I know at RESTORE in 2022 you made the comment that says how to when you were addressing how to recognize a wolf in the church, and you said, Well, one way is to not become one. And I saw  some pushback to that. I thought it was a fantastic point because I think  we all have this, and if we deny that we have it, that’s almost the scariest situation, because if you are not attending to your own heart, that’s when I think you are most likely to fall into this. But some people said, Oh, wait, isn’t this sin leveling? Because it takes a special kind of evil to be a pedophile or to sexually abuse someone, and not all of us are there. Speak to those folks who were saying that, and I think you know, and I understand where they’re coming from. What would you say to them?   DIANE LANGBERG 21:36 Well, I think, first of all, sin in itself is on a continuum. I mean, some sins do hideous damage to people that all the help in the world isn’t going to undo. You know, it’s not going to go away, really, until they see the face of Jesus. There are other things that we do, that we see, and we stop doing, or other people see us stop and we change. And things like, it’s all on a continuum. And the problem is, if you have, let’s say, as an adolescent, you start doing things to cover up things, which is pretty common in adolescence, frankly. Did you do this? No, I didn’t do this. Were you in this place? No, I was not. So forth.   JULIE ROYS  22:35 I’m not sure it’s just adolescents either.   DIANE LANGBERG 22:37 Oh I  know it’s not. The point is that it’s very young, and it happens when you can have a toddler. You ask them, “Did they do something? Did you spill this? No, you know, darn sure they were.   JULIE ROYS  22:51 It reminds me of my grandson who, four-year-old grandson who was asked if he did something. He said, No, my mind made me do that. My mind told me to do that.   DIANE LANGBERG 23:04 Well, that’s a keeper number one and number two, I mean, teach him when he has a different level brain to look at himself. But yes, it’s in all of us. And so when I said that what I’m saying is, don’t live even minorly in the way that perpetrators live. Don’t excuse harm to others. Doesn’t have to be sexual abused, It could be a rude person. Don’t excuse that rudeness. Don’t treat other people  as if they have no value or they can easily be discarded or whatever.   DIANE LANGBERG 23:43 It is the things that grow and control if we keep doing them that we don’t theoretically want to do. And that’s what I mean by that. Look at yourself and  we are very good at saying, Well, I did do this, but I didn’t do that. We do that all the time, and we’re leveling it, and we’re not looking at ourselves in the light when we do that. That’s what we’re called to do.   JULIE ROYS  24:16 I love that you say, put rudeness up there and not honoring people as made in God’s image. I find sometimes it’s hard to remember that even the perpetrator was made in God’s image. And someone who’s taught me a great deal about that is Lori Anne Thompson. I have never heard her dehumanize another human being. Again, for those who don’t know her, she was one of the victims of sexual abuse by Ravi Zacharias. I’ve never heard her do that, and I find being around her makes me a better person, because I always hear her honoring every person. Not that she won’t call them words that they rightly have owned,  but to remember that every single person is made in God’s image and treat them. ,   DIANE LANGBERG 25:09 Yes, you will never meet somebody who is not, even if they’ve got their bodies six feet waiting in hell. They were made in the image of God.   JULIE ROYS  25:23 It reminds me of CS Lewis, who said, “We will never meet a mere mortal.   DIANE LANGBERG 25:28 Right? Yes, which does not mean being easy on it. That’s one of the places many people get confused. If I think this way, then I but actually, if you really think that way and love somebody, I mean they’re dancing in hell, for crying out loud, if they’re abusing children or something like that. The gift to them is the truth and turning on the lights so the rats run .   JULIE ROYS  25:56 Absolutely. And repentance is a gift. And the best thing we can do is call them to repentance, and I try to keep that in the forefront of my work too, that that is always my hope. Do I want them to be removed from spiritual positions? Yes, but ultimately we pray for their soul. Ultimately we pray that they would repent.   JULIE ROYS  26:19 When you talk about the deception that operates in these systems. There’s a lot of, I mean, even psychologically, what’s going on with, I think, the staff, with the people, the lay people, as they hear things. And you talked about something called Truth Default Theory. Would you explain what that is and how that often is in operation when these things begin to get revealed?   DIANE LANGBERG 26:51 The best way to find out what that is to read that section of the book, frankly. And it’s not a short thing to explain, so to speak. But people choose to lie because they think the outcome will be good. If you tell the truth of a big mess, the outcome will be bad, which there’s some truth to that . You’re going to blow something up if you tell the truth. It’ll make a mess, and everything else. And so I think that people want to keep the system okay. And so you’ll see these places or whatever, where the leader has been sexually abusive, maybe for years and years, and they got rid of the leader, but they don’t go any deeper. They don’t go any deeper into it because this is the church, and we want it to be, we want it to thrive, and we’re glad that that stopped and all that kind of stuff. And we make it shallow. It’s not shallow. You can’t do harm like abuse or live with that harm for years or months or whatever, and then just walk away and be fine. It’s not a possibility. And so part of that is understanding the different ways that people hold on to systems. Now, this is my church. I love it. I’m going to protect it. Yes, he did those things, yes, they’re terrible, but we fired him, and that’s all. It’s shallow in terms of really understanding.   JULIE ROYS  28:37 And when we have this vested interest, we do seem to try, and we’ve seen this a lot, we seem to choose who we believe. And so often, I think people are just predisposed to believing the person who has the position of spiritual authority, and usually the victim is someone we’ve never heard of and often, one of the first things that the system does  to protect  their basically, this is their money maker, right? This is their image as a church or as a ministry, is that they will denigrate the person who’s bringing whether it’s a reporter, whether it’s the victims themselves bringing the allegations, and the people seem to be predisposed to just believing the person we want to believe.   DIANE LANGBERG 29:40 Yes, yes, yes. We want it to be okay. We want it just to go back to normal without the bad guy, they figured out. First of all, the understanding of how it seeps into everything, contaminates everything is not understood. So if the bad guy is gone, so to speak, then let’s just be fine. But if a bad guy had run a truck over a half of the denomination and nobody could walk, what would you do? That’s clear there is the harm, and it’s still there, even though the people who drove the trucks got kicked out. But with this kind of thing, I think it’s easier for people to push it away and say, well, the bad is gone. And, this is good, whatever.   JULIE ROYS  30:34 Talk about the larger system. So I often refer to it as the evangelical industrial complex. I think you refer to it a little bit differently, but it’s the same thing. Often it’s not just the particular institution where there’s allegations being raised, but there’s an entire system behind that nation, a denomination, or even a camp like I think we saw that with Mike Bickle and sort of the International Houses of Prayer and their related ministries, and even that seeped into the Messianic ministries that were very much a part of this. Talk to those who maybe are somewhat naive about how these systems work. Because I know before, before I got a job several decades ago at Moody Radio, I didn’t know this existed. I was kind of like, pretty blind to it all. And I just thought, these are all wonderful ministries. And I think a lot of people believe that and  I wish it were all true; some of them are wonderful ministries. But talk about that system and  how it  exists and how it works.   DIANE LANGBERG 31:54 Well, even if you think of it just as a family or a big system like that,  the idea of the family, or the idea of a church, whatever. Those are good ideas. We love the idea. We want to help the idea. We want to make it grow. We want it to get bigger, and all of those things. And then something comes along that shows that there’s cancer  and so sometimes we ignore that. There’s plenty of organizations that do that. Sometimes the response is very superficial, and sometimes people really want to get rid of, say, those who are the source of the cancer, whatever, but they still aren’t doing any treatment for the cancer.   JULIE ROYS  32:42 Some of it’s quite carnal too, isn’t it? Just come down to, I mean, we’re talking dollars and cents with some of these.   DIANE LANGBERG 32:47 Oh my goodness, yes, fame and a whole lot of money.   JULIE ROYS  32:51 It really is amazing, once you get into this, when you realize how much the celebrity pastor supports the entire industry, whether it’s the mega church, whether it’s publishing, whether it’s Christian radio, because we rely on them for our programming and  to bring the big crowds,  or to bring the audience to a station, I mean, all of those things. And I think people don’t realize it is a billions, billions of dollars involved in evangelicalism.   DIANE LANGBERG 33:21 Be we tell ourselves, it’s all God’s work, and his message is getting out there, and people are hearing, and we have to protect that period .   JULIE ROYS  33:30 And despite the fact that these pastors are living in multi-million-dollar homes, sometimes multiple multi-million-dollar homes, and somehow we say they deserve it? like whether they deserve it or not, Christ didn’t live like.   DIANE LANGBERG 33:46  He certainly deserved it, right?   JULIE ROYS  33:50 And yet he, he never, you know, I always go back to Philippians two, being in very nature God did not consider equality with God a thing to be grasped. But instead, emptied Himself and became a servant and it’s like we’ve forgotten that model. And sometimes I’m just like, wow.   DIANE LANGBERG 34:12 Well, I think in many ways, over, I don’t know how many decades, but that the Christian world has forgotten those things, which I can’t imagine how much grief we have caused our God.   JULIE ROYS  34:25 Despite these harms that you talk about in your book, and you explain, and we’ve talked about on this podcast, you express hope for the church. And I think a lot of folks are looking at the American church and not feeling very hopeful at all. Why do you feel that there’s hope?   DIANE LANGBERG 34:48 Because Jesus Christ exists. It goes back to him. But I have also in this work, met very fine, pastors, leaders, whatever, who have come in to see me, whether struggling with something or whatever, but who long to do right to please God, to love Jesus well, to love their people well. So I have not had a diet of only those who are either victims of terrible harm or doing the harm. I think if that’s all I’d had, I would have a much harder thing to think about in terms of my thoughts about God, and I did. There was a time, I don’t know how long ago it was now, some years where I decided I can’t do this anymore. It’s going to make me rotten  inside. And literally got down on my knees and said to God, okay, I’m done. You’ll have to let me know what other job you want me to do. Obviously, he did not do that, because I’m still there. That was a turning point for me in many ways, many of them wonderful. But you know, how much of that can you sit with and look at and not be made sick by it? If you’re not, something’s wrong with you. But if it does that to you, then, how do you deal with yourself?   JULIE ROYS  36:23 And I think one of the most insidious parts of religious abuse and trauma in the church is that it separates you often from community. And I have found, and I haven’t been in this nearly as long as you, but that community, and I think we need to sometimes redefine it. And I mean, I’m in a house church now, and I’ve talked about this on numerous podcasts, but it’s been a safe place for me. It’s been a wonderfully healing place for me. But it’s just been crucial. And I know not everybody has that opportunity, but somehow I just think we have to, we have to seek that out, even if it’s really difficult for us. And I understand some people need to take a break for a while, and I totally get that. And we had a very compassionate church, or house church, where there were a number of us that were wounded, that people were willing to sit with us in that and not try to make something out of what we were doing more than just loving people, which really is, I mean, that’s the essence of it, all right. Wow. That that you’re right. If all you encounter are toxic people doing toxic things, and I still feel this way to this day, the most beautiful people that I know still are Christians. Some of the most ugly ones that I’ve encountered are professing Christians, whether they know Christ, that’s between them and him. But yeah, I will still say  the most loving, beautiful human beings on this planet that I know are still Christians.   DIANE LANGBERG 38:16 Yes, and I have found that to be true. And I’ve sat with people sometimes for years working through growing up with abuse, churches abusing, I mean, just the idea that anybody can grow and have a life and bear good fruit out of all of that, it’s a miracle. But I watch it, it’s there, and it is a thing of beauty,   JULIE ROYS  38:43 Truly is. I’ve said this before, but you are an inspiration to me. I know you’re an inspiration to so many of the folks that are listening,. I would just love to know from you, and I know you, that there is no secret hill or secret formula. But as you’re looking back over five decades of work and your relationship with Jesus, what would be some things that you would say to us, and remaining true to the end, fighting the good fight, being able to say someday before Christ, or hearing him say to us, well done, good and faithful servant. We want to get there. How can we get there?   DIANE LANGBERG 39:40 Well, I think one of the things I would say is that I did try to quit once. I mean, I told God, I was quitting. I didn’t ask him anything. Probably, there’s something about me, of course, but I couldn’t do it. I was either gonna  react in ways that were harmful for people or just deaden myself. Those seem to be the only options, and that was a huge turning point for me. I obviously did stay with it. So he won, but he responded to me and helped me see things in way of the cross that I had not seen before, in who he is in his heart. So feel like quitting. I think that’s pretty normal, you know, and I think a lot of people do. But I think, yeah, I literally got down on my face on the floor, and said, I quit your turn, I don’t know what to do. But he responded, and I’m so grateful, and I’m so grateful I didn’t. I’ve learned more of him by staying I wouldn’t trade for anything. I’ve also seen changes, not just in individuals, which I have, but in some systems, or at least portions of it was probably right.   JULIE ROYS  41:13 I mean obviously God could do all of the work that we do without us. He doesn’t need us, and yet he chooses to allow us to partner with what he’s doing in the world  and through that, we become different people. We become,  I’ve said it to my husband before, like I feel sometimes like he is making us more  enjoyable companions for him.   DIANE LANGBERG 41:44 Yes, we become more like Him. And you don’t feel it in the middle of it, and it takes a long time, but it’s somewhere along the way you look back and go, Oh, that’s not what I was like before. Has his aroma in it.   JULIE ROYS  42:01 Well, I just want to thank you so much for your work, for your writing, and I’m just absolutely thrilled that you’re coming to RESTORE in February. So looking forward to that. And a new thing thanks to Phil Monroe, your partner there, is having a pre-conference for counselors. Because, again, we need to minister to the counselors, to the caregivers, to the pastors, absolutely. And so I’m thrilled that we’re going to be able to do that, and you’re going to be able to participate in that. And then the conference as well and speaking to a lot of people who’ve been through an awful lot of church hurts. So very much looking forward to that. But thank you so much for taking the time today, and thank you for this new book, even though  we weren’t able to have you toward the last RESTORE, which, for me personally, was  a sacrifice, but definitely worth it in the book. So thank you.   DIANE LANGBERG 42:58 Well, thank you for having me, and I am glad for the work that you do. It touches people, but whose souls have been hurt, gives them a taste of light and love. So blessings on you..   JULIE ROYS  43:19 Thank you.   JULIE ROYS  43:22 Thanks so much for listening to The Roys Report, a podcast dedicated to reporting the truth and restoring the church. I’m Julie Roys, and I would love to get you a copy of Diane’s latest book, When the Church Harms God’s People. This is our premium to donors this month. So if you give $40 or more to The Roys Report, we’ll send you a copy of Diane’s book. As many of you know, your gifts to this work is what makes it possible. 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We continue our in-depth conversation with Tom Tinney, Product Specialist and equipment guru at AquaPhoenix Scientific diving deeper into the technical aspects of multimeter troubleshooting. This episode is packed with practical tips designed to help you navigate the often-confusing world of diagnostics and electrical troubleshooting. Whether you're a seasoned professional or just getting started, Tom's hands-on advice will guide you through common troubleshooting challenges so you can improve your accuracy and efficiency in the field. Missed Part 1? No worries! You can catch up on Episode 390 to get the foundation before diving into this advanced discussion. How Can You Avoid Fake Signals? Ever wonder why you're getting water meter readings when the system isn't running? Tom breaks it down. If low-voltage sensor wires run too close to high-voltage AC wires, electrical interference can mimic a water meter signal, leading to fake readings. Pro tip: Keep the wires separated by at least 12 inches, and if they must cross, do so at a 90-degree angle. "Running them through the same conduit isn't just a bad idea; it's a code violation," Tom advises. The Troubleshooting Tool, You Didn't Know You Needed: A Paperclip That's right—Tom channels his inner MacGyver with this simple tool. "When I troubleshoot, I always bring paper clips," he shares. They're perfect for quick fixes, especially when dealing with short circuits or stripped wires. How Long Can a Conduit Run Be on a Water Meter? Tom recommends keeping conduit runs short and efficient: ● Water meters: up to 1,000 feet ● Conductivity sensors: 200 feet max ● Amplified pH sensors: up to 1,000 feet ● Non-amplified pH sensors: Stick to 20 feet or less for optimal performance. Pro Tip: Save Your Multimeter's Battery Life You don't need to keep your meter on "Resistance" all the time. Switching it to Volts AC, Volts DC, or simply turning it off can extend your battery life significantly. Troubleshooting with the Experts: Top 4 Calls Tom Tinney shares the top troubleshooting calls he receives: The 1575 Controller Mystery ● Issue: Controller reset every time the relay activated. ● Fix: A simple switch adjustment from 230V to 115V solved the issue. The Miswired Outlet ● Problem: Controller shutting off when a relay turned on. ● Fix: Rewriting the outlet, which had reversed hot and neutral wires. Destroyed Chlorine Sensor ● Issue: Excessive flow and pressure destroyed the sensor.  ● Lesson: Always stick to the manufacturer's guidelines and communicate them clearly to plumbers and electricians. Competing Controllers Failing ● Issue: Controllers from different manufacturers failing simultaneously. ● Fix: The culprit was a faulty sensor and excessive aeration. Who Should Be Using Remote Communications? While it may seem logical to apply remote communications to your highest-value accounts, Tom suggests starting with smaller ones. Remote communication technology can save time and money by allowing you to troubleshoot remotely, and the investment often pays off with just one saved trip a year. Troubleshooting Leaks in an MPT Thread When it comes to troubleshooting leaks in an MPT Thread, maintenance is key. First, make sure you clean your sensors at least once a season, or even more frequently, similar to how you maintain a cooling tower. When replacing the boiler sensor in an MPT Thread (an angled thread going into an angled pipe), don't screw it in until it "clicks"—this can cause leaks. Instead, tighten the sensor by hand. Once it's snug, use a wrench to turn it only ½ to ¾ of a turn more. If you've already got a leak, chances are you've overtightened it. Don't try to fix a leak by cranking it tighter—at that point, you've already gone too far. The Blackmore Method This formula answers the age-old question: How do I know what to set my biocide pre-bleed on? If you know the system volume, incoming makeup water conductivity, and how much you evaporate every minute, this equation will tell you exactly what to set your pre-bleed to: A Fun Fact: The Cooling Tower Scene in Die Hard Did you know? The blue box with the two dials on the wall in the Die-Hard cooling tower scene was one of Tom's old controllers! Tom even tracked down the Fox Studios building manager and discovered that it was there from 1988 through 2012. How cool is that? Timestamps 02:07 - Trace Blackmore reminds you about our free Events for Water Treatment Professionals page on our website. It's a comprehensive list of all the events our team is aware of for water professionals to attend in the USA and around the world. Don't wait, scale up your knowledge today by attending a conference in the upcoming months. 03:15 - The Hang is happening on November 14, 2024: a free zoom networking event for water professionals 05:40 - Tom Tinney, Product Specialist and equipment guru at AquaPhoenix Scientific continues his talk on Troubleshooting Multimeters 01:04:35 - Drop by Drop with James McDonald  Connect with Tom Tinney Phone: +1 469 999 8603 Email: pir8@tomtinney.com Website: https://www.aquaphoenixsci.com/ LinkedIn: Tom Tinney  Links Mentioned Episode 003 Controllers with Tom Tinney 390 Multimeter Troubleshooting: Your Guide to Accurate Diagnostics, Part 1 Industrial Water Week Resources Page Multimeter Assorted Fuses box 5 X 20 Resistance Substitution Decade Box pH/ORP Simulator 4-20mA Simulator to simulate Pyxis Fluke Meter with Frequency Complete Panel Systems Test Kits Dragon Con, The Dragon Award The Rising Tide Mastermind Books and Movies Mentioned Die Hard 5-Movie Collection starring Bruce Willis (Christmas is around the corner, folks) Path of Tyrants (Backyard Starship) by J.N. Chaney and  Terry Maggert Son of the Black Sword (1) (Saga of the Forgotten Warrior) by Larry Correia Tower of Silence (Saga of the Forgotten Warrior Book 4) by Larry Correia Eat That Frog!: 21 Great Ways to Stop Procrastinating and Get More Done in Less Time by Brian Tracy Quick Throttle Magazine 1997 The Autobiography of Benjamin Franklin by Benjamin Franklin Blood of Invidia: Maestru Series Book 1 by Tom Tinney & Morgen Batten Threads: Book One of the "Fabric of the Universe" by Tom Tinney The Future is Short: Science Fiction in a Flash by Carrol Fix  Visions II: Moons of Saturn by Tom Tinney The Future is Short - Volume 2: Science Fiction in a Flash by Jot Russell Drop By Drop with James  In today's episode, we're thinking about chlorine chemistry and the Reservoir Effect.  Have you heard this phrase before? The Reservoir Effect? In the debate between which is a better biocide at higher pHs, chlorine or bromine, the Reservoir Effect is an important concept to consider. When sodium hypochlorite, chlorine gas, or even calcium hypochlorite mixes with water, the target product they produce is hypochlorous acid or HOCl. This hypochlorous acid is subject to a dissociation which converts some of it to the hypochlorite ion or OCl-, which is a weaker biocide than hypochlorous acid. The pH of the water has a major impact upon how much this dissociation happens. That's at the heart of the whole chlorine versus bromine debate because the chlorine chemistry dissociates more at a lower pH than bromine does. This means more hypochlorous acid is converted to the weaker hypochlorite ion at a lower pH than hypobromous acid is converted to the hypobromite ion at the same pH. This concept is used to justify using bromine chemistry at higher pHs versus chlorine. But is this argument as simple as this? I propose that the Reservoir Effect muddies the waters a bit. I just talked about how the hypochlorous acid dissociates to the weaker hypochlorite ion. This dissociation between the two is a very tight and fast ratio. It's an equilibrium reaction. As soon as the hypochlorous acid is consumed in the battle against unwanted microbiological activity, some of the weaker hypochlorite ions are quickly converted BACK to the stronger hypochlorous acid form. This is the Reservoir Effect because even though the hypochlorite ion is weaker, it is waiting there to turn back into the stronger hypochlorous acid very quickly when needed. Sort of like the Incredible Hulk. Bruce Banner is the mild-mannered hypochlorite ion just going about his day, but when push comes to shove, he bulks up and turns green…although green isn't a good thing in a cooling tower, but you get the point. Now, there are certainly many other factors when comparing chlorine chemistry to other alternatives in a cooling water system, but the Reservoir Effect is one that I don't think many people know about nor consider. Think about it. Events for Water Professionals Check out our Scaling UP! H2O Events Calendar where we've listed every event Water Treaters should be aware of by clicking HERE.

In our latest episode, we had the pleasure of welcoming back Tom Tinney, Product Specialist and equipment guru at AquaPhoenix Scientific. Tom shared invaluable insights into troubleshooting multimeters—an essential tool every water professional should have on hand during site visits. Here are some key takeaways from our discussion that you won't want to miss! Why You Need a Multimeter: An Essential Tool for Your Kit Tom emphasized the importance of carrying a multimeter. “This is the tool that checks the controller to ensure you're delivering your products and services on site while you're not there. If you need to check its health or troubleshoot, you need a multimeter.” Even a $12 model will suffice, so you won't stress about leaving it behind. This handy device can save you time and reduce anxiety, especially if it's misplaced. Troubleshooting Power Issues: More Than Just Fuses A common scenario Tom encounters is technicians reporting that their controller is powered on but has no output. While it may seem like a blown fuse isn't the issue, controllers often have separate fuses for the relays. With your multimeter, you can quickly check for voltage on either side of the fuse. If one side shows voltage and the other doesn't, it indicates a blown fuse. Tom's golden rule for troubleshooting fuses? Always bring three with you because “troubleshooting with fuses always takes three fuses, no matter what.” After replacing a blown fuse, check if the controller powers up correctly or if the issue lies with the connected equipment. Be Prepared: Stock Your Toolbox Tom recommends keeping spare fuses in the exact size you need in your toolbox. With fewer Radio Shacks around, it's essential to think ahead and replenish your supply. By having a fuse kit, you can avoid multiple service calls, saving both time and effort. When your fuse count dips below three, make sure to restock! The Art of Checking Fuses: Don't Be Deceived! Sometimes, a wire may appear intact. To check for functionality, Tom suggests using the resistance setting on your multimeter. This method can confirm whether the fuse is operational. Listen for the reliable beep, indicating that current is flowing correctly. When checking fuses, ensure you're measuring both sides for voltage. If it's absent, the fuse is blown. To confirm functionality, you can also switch your multimeter to resistance mode. If it beeps when touching the fuse leads, it's still conducting properly; if not, the fuse is blown. Checking Conductivity Sensors Tom provided insights on verifying whether a conductivity sensor is functioning correctly. By measuring the AC voltage at the sensor tips, you can determine if it's working as intended. Remember, maintaining clean sensor tips is crucial for accurate readings—avoid using sandpaper Instead, use a loose-bristle steel brush to remove any buildup. Conductivity Sensors Gone Bad Many users may regret learning how easily a multimeter can troubleshoot issues with conductivity sensors. Tom noted that when sensors are returned for warranty claims, they're often covered with white residue but still work perfectly fine 99% of the time after cleaning. If you want to learn how to clean them properly, he's more than willing to share his expertise. The Tom Tinney Approved Method for Cleaning a Conductivity Probe Instead of sanding the carbon tip of a conductivity sensor, Tom recommends using a loose-bristle steel brush. This method effectively removes crusty buildup without damaging the sensor. After brushing, soak it in a 10% sulfuric acid, 1% murratic, or if you have time, you can even use a CLR solution to dissolve any remaining scale. Rinse thoroughly, then use isopropyl alcohol to eliminate any oily residues. “After you put it back in your system, you will be majorly impressed with the operation of that sensor!” shares Tom. Understanding the Difference: Carbon Tips vs. Toroidal Probes When comparing carbon tips to toroidal probes, it's crucial to understand their design and functionality differences. Carbon Tips: Carbon tips are made from powdered carbon compressed under high pressure in a mold, creating a porous structure that allows water to flow through. When water pressure exceeds 140 PSI, it passes through the carbon like a sieve, enabling it to travel up the rod and into the sensor via a wire sheath. This design ensures optimal performance but limits the operational pressure to 140 PSI. Toroidal Probes: In contrast, toroidal probes operate differently. They use two wire coils as transformers, generating a small alternating current signal without direct contact with the water. The water's conductivity affects the signal strength between the coils. As a result, these sensors require less frequent cleaning since they are less prone to fouling compared to carbon tips. Additionally, toroidal sensors excel in high-salinity environments, making them suitable for applications involving seawater or other salty waters. Not so salty? Then users typically revert to two-tip or four-tip conductivity sensors. Tune in next week to Scaling UP! H2O as we continue with part 2 of this crucial topic of troubleshooting multimeters. Timestamps 01:00 - Trace Blackmore reflects on Industrial Water Week 08:30 - Upcoming Events for Water Treatment Professionals 12:00 - Drop by Drop with James McDonald 16:00 - Catching up with returning guest Tom Tinney, Product Specialist and equipment guru at AquaPhoenix Scientific 27:00 Tom Tinney talks Troubleshooting Multimeters Tom Tinney Quotes “Troubleshooting with fuses always takes 3 fuses, no matter what.” “There is a proper way to clean conductivity sensors and if you're not doing it, shame on you, and if you want to learn it, we can talk about it.” “I don't care who you are. There's a little scale building up on that sensor all the time.” “You never go above one hundred and forty PSI with a carbon-based sensor” Connect with Tom Tinney Phone: +1 469-999-8603 Email: pir8@tomtinney.com Website: https://www.aquaphoenixsci.com/ LinkedIn: Tom Tinney Read or Download Tom Tinney's Press Release HERE Links Mentioned The Rising Tide Mastermind Scaling UP! H2O Academy video courses Submit a Show Idea AWT (Association of Water Technologies) Episode 003 Controllers with Tom Tinney Industrial Water Week Resources Page Multimeter Assorted Fuses box 5 X 20 Resistance Substitution Decade Box pH/ORP Simulator 4-20mA Simulator to simulate Pyxis Fluke Meter with Frequency Complete Panel Systems Test Kits Books Mentioned Blood of Invidia: Maestru Series Book 1 by Tom Tinney & Morgen Batten Threads: Book One of the "Fabric of the Universe" by Tom Tinney The Future is Short: Science Fiction in a Flash by Carrol Fix Visions II: Moons of Saturn by Tom Tinney The Future is Short - Volume 2: Science Fiction in a Flash by Jot Russell  Drop By Drop with James  In today's episode, I'm thinking about sodium hypochlorite and temperature. How does temperature impact the strength and shelf life of industrial-strength sodium hypochlorite or bleach? As we all know and witness, our industrial water treatment chemicals are not all stored in temperature-controlled environments. Some are stored in hot boiler rooms, cold sheds, or outside directly in the sunlight during summer months. When it comes to sodium hypochlorite, though, how can the temperature in these various storage conditions impact it? One article I've seen says that for every 18 F increase in temperature (that would be 10 C), the decomposition rate of bleach is increased by a factor of 3.5! That means at 77 F or 25 C, the half-life of a 12.5% solution is 180 days. For 95 F or 35 C, the half-life drops significantly to only 48 days! Would knowing this impact the quantity of sodium hypochlorite you store on site during warmer months? Would knowing this explain any issues you've had with microbiological control? Think about it. It's a hot topic Events for Water Professionals Check out our Scaling UP! H2O Events Calendar where we've listed every event Water Treaters should be aware of by clicking HERE. 

Nick, in California, is joined by Daily Mirror Newsboy (6 out of 7 at Newmarket Sat) David Yates to discuss the latest news from around the racing world. First up today, 4-time Breeders' Cup Classic winning legend Mike Smith gives Nick the lowdown on his California Crown winner Subsanador, and tells us why he is no hurry to hang up his boots at the age of 58. Also today, Nick and Dave review the excellent action from Newmarket's Cambridgeshire meeting, and begin the build up to this weekend's Arc, which could yet feature Auguste Rodin. With that horse's imminent retirement announced Friday, Nick catches up with Coolmore's Mark Byrne to discuss what he'll bring to the stallion roster. Co-trainer Amanda Zetterholm reflects on star steeplechaser Il Est Francais's sparkling comeback win, while Aussie star James McDonald looks back on another Group One triumph, this time on Cox Plate fancy Broadsiding at Rosehill, and gives Nick his views on Romantic Warrior running in the key Middle Eastern races next spring.