Podcast appearances and mentions of James McDonald

Power plant water and steam chemistry is not a background task. It affects safety, reliability, metallurgy, production, and the decisions plant teams make under pressure. In Part 1 of this conversation, Trace Blackmore, CWT, welcomes Bradley Buecker of SAMCO Technologies and Buecker Associates to examine what happens when familiar assumptions go unchallenged. Safety Comes First in High-Energy Systems Bradley begins with the lesson that has shaped decades of his work: safety. Power and industrial systems involve heat, flow, moving equipment, chemicals, confined spaces, lockout/tagout requirements, and PPE decisions that cannot be treated casually. That safety lens carries directly into the discussion of flow accelerated corrosion, or FAC. Bradley explains how older thinking around removing all oxygen from high-pressure steam generation systems helped shape all-volatile treatment reducing programs. However, research following a catastrophic 1986 feedwater line failure showed that chemistry, flow conditions, pH, temperature, and piping geometry can combine to thin protective oxide layers on carbon steel. "Water is Water" Is a Risky Mindset Trace and Bradley then challenge one of the most expensive assumptions in industrial plants: "water is water." Bradley explains why boiler makeup treatment, softener performance, hardness control, and operating discipline deserve attention before failures appear. Low-pressure and intermediate-pressure boilers may tolerate a range of dissolved solids, but hardness remains a serious threat. Calcium and magnesium can form calcium carbonate scale in hot boiler environments, especially when softeners are poorly maintained, overrun, or bypassed to keep production moving. Bradley shares examples where short-term operating decisions led to tube failures, re-tubing, hydrogen damage, and costly downtime. Layup, Stainless Steel, and Data Before Assumptions The conversation also covers proper layup, oxygen and moisture corrosion, nitrogen capping, dehumidified air, vapor phase corrosion inhibitors, and why idle systems need a plan. Bradley reminds listeners that protecting the boiler is not enough; condensers, low-pressure turbines, and other surfaces also matter. Finally, Bradley discusses stainless steel selection and why 304L or 316L should never be treated as a universal cure for corrosion. Chlorides, deposits, cycling in cooling towers, and pitting risk all need to be evaluated before materials decisions become expensive lessons. His closed cooling water case history reinforces the same principle: do not clean, treat, or specify based on assumption. Get the data first. Good water treatment decisions protect people, equipment, and production. This conversation is a reminder that experience matters, but so does the willingness to ask questions, challenge old habits, and reach out before a problem becomes a failure. Listen to the full conversation above. Explore related episodes below. Stay engaged, keep learning, and continue scaling up your knowledge! Timestamps 02:30 — Trace opens the episode by thanking listeners for encouraging him to share more personal reflections, showing how audience feedback shapes the podcast. 04:50 — Trace highlights upcoming industry events, including ACE26 and The Water Expo, and reminds water professionals to use the Scaling UP! H2O events section for career and networking opportunities. 07:10 — James McDonald presents Words of Water, defining the mole and keeping technical learning approachable for industrial water professionals. 09:10 — Trace welcomes Bradley Buecker of SAMCO Technologies and Buecker Associates as his lab partner for the episode. 10:00 — Bradley summarizes his career across coal-fired utilities, water treatment, steam generation chemistry, air emissions control, engineering firms, and water treatment companies. 11:30 — Bradley identifies safety as the most important lesson from his career, emphasizing PPE, lockout/tagout, confined spaces, chemicals, and high-energy systems. 12:50 — Bradley challenges the phrase "that's the way we've always done it," pointing to changes in membrane technologies, high-pressure steam chemistry, and cooling water treatment. 13:50 — Bradley introduces two major concerns: flow accelerated corrosion and the dangerous assumption that "water is water." 15:10 — Bradley explains the historical focus on removing oxygen from high-pressure steam systems using mechanical deaerators and reducing agents. 16:10 — Bradley describes the 1986 nuclear plant feedwater line failure that killed four personnel and intensified research into FAC. 18:50 — Bradley explains how AVTR chemistry, flow conditions, fittings, pH, and temperature can thin protective oxide layers and lead to catastrophic failure. 20:20 — Bradley discusses how high-purity feedwater with a small amount of dissolved oxygen can form a denser oxide layer that protects carbon steel from FAC. 23:50 — Bradley compares oxygen scavengers, including sulfite, hydrazine, carbohydrazide, DHA, and methyl ethyl ketoxime, and explains where their use differs. 26:50 — Trace and Bradley unpack why "water is water" often means water is treated as the last priority instead of the first. 28:10 — Bradley explains why sodium softening, hardness control, and boiler makeup treatment are essential for low- and intermediate-pressure boilers. 31:00 — Bradley shares examples of softener bypass decisions that can lead to boiler damage, tube failures, re-tubing, and costly downtime. 36:50 — Bradley explains why layup matters, especially when water cools, air enters, and localized corrosion develops inside idle equipment. 42:00 — Bradley warns that stainless steel is not a cure-all and explains how chloride concentration and pitting risk affect 304L and 316L applications. 45:50 — Bradley shares a closed cooling water case history where black material was assumed to be iron but turned out to be bitumen from an unsuitable pipe liner. 51:00 — Bradley stresses the need for data before action, explaining how an incorrect cleaning assumption could have compounded a seven-figure materials mistake. 52:50 — Trace and Bradley discuss the value of experience and why younger professionals should seek training, conferences, vendors, and technical networks. 54:20 — Bradley speaks to the importance of mentorship as experienced professionals retire and critical industry knowledge risks being lost. 59:40 — Trace closes Part 1 and previews Part 2, which will continue the conversation on oxygen scavengers, pretreatment stories, and Bradley's career. Connect with Bradley Buecker Email: bueckerb@samcotech.com   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bradley-buecker-705b9021/     Guest Resources Mentioned   ASME CRTD 34 / ASME Consensus document Barry Dooley – "Flow-Accelerated Corrosion in Fossil and Combined Cycle/HRSG Plants" IAPWS Technical Guidance Document – Volatile Treatments   Brad Buecker's HRSG issues: Reemphasizing the importance of flow-accelerated corrosion control – Part 1  Industrial water and steam treatment will be important for a long time Part 1    The importance of industrial water and steam treatment, Part 2  The importance of industrial water and steam treatment, Part 3 The importance of industrial water and steam treatment, Part 4  The importance of industrial water and steam treatment, Part 4.5 The importance of industrial water and steam treatment, Part 5  The importance of industrial water and steam treatment, Part 6  The importance of industrial water and steam treatment, Part 7 Surry Unit 2 feedwater line rupture documentation   Scaling UP! H2O Resources Mentioned  AWT (Association of Water Technologies)  Scaling UP! H2O Academy video courses  Submit a Show Idea  The Rising Tide Mastermind   Words of Water with James McDonald Today's definition is the standard SI unit for the amount of substance, defined exactly as 6.02214076 x 10^23 elementary entities, such as atoms or molecules.  Can you guess the word or phrase?    2026 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. 

 Communication shapes how teams learn, respond, correct, and build trust. Trace Blackmore, CWT welcomes returning guest Paule Genest, Director, Sales and ESG (Environment, Social and Governance) Water and Energy TGWT / The Tannin Guys for a conversation on positive communication, temperaments, the WOW Effect, and how water professionals can use words with more clarity and care.    Communication With a Positive Impact  Paule reframes positive communication as communication with a positive impact. The goal is not fake positivity or polished language. The goal is to use the right words, tone, timing, and listening habits to create better emotional and relational outcomes.  That distinction matters in technical environments. Teams may say they want innovation, accountability, safety, or trust, but unclear or defensive communication can unintentionally create the opposite result. Paule reminds listeners that communication is not optional. It is operational.    Listening, Temperaments, and Shared Definitions  Trace and Paule revisit the temperament framework made familiar to Scaling UP! Nation through Kathleen Edelman's past appearances. Paule identifies herself as a "yellow," while Trace identifies as a "red," creating a useful example of how different communication styles can either complement or frustrate one another.  They also discuss why listening is more than waiting to respond. Paule encourages listeners to pay attention to words, nonverbal cues, context, environment, and emotion. She also emphasizes the importance of shared definitions. A word like "innovation," "courage," or "accountability" may not mean the same thing to every person in the room.    The Fizz Factor  Paule introduces the idea of "just enough fizz" in communication. Fizz is the energy, care, authenticity, and clarity that makes communication feel alive without becoming fake, overwhelming, or unclear.  Too little fizz can make communication flat. Too much can create noise. The professional challenge is learning how much energy, directness, empathy, and clarity the person and the situation require.    When Communication Gets Difficult  The conversation also addresses harder moments: tension in meetings, emotional escalation, apologies, safety corrections, and urgent technical situations. Paule encourages professionals to pause, breathe, validate, and revisit conversations when needed.  In a boiler room or safety-critical setting, direct communication may be necessary immediately. However, Trace and Paule agree that teams can still return later to review what happened, protect the relationship, and improve the system.  Better communication does not remove difficulty from technical work. It helps professionals handle difficulty with more clarity, humility, and purpose.  Listen to the full conversation above. Explore related episodes below. Stay engaged, keep learning, and continue scaling up your knowledge!    Timestamps  01:17 — Trace shares information about the Global 6K for Water and invites listeners to participate on Saturday, May 16. 02:20 — Trace introduces the episode topic: why clear, positive communication matters during busy seasons filled with projects, audits, customer calls, emails, and coordination. 03:28 — Words of Water with James McDonald 05:03 — Trace encourages listeners to visit the Scaling UP! H2O events page and highlights the 2026 Environment Systems Research Institute Conference in San Diego, California, July 13–17. 06:33 — Trace previews Legionella Awareness Month in August and explains why the podcast dedicates the month to Legionella, waterborne pathogens, expert interviews, and industry education. 08:29 — Trace introduces Industrial Water Week, taking place October 5–9, with daily themes for pretreatment, boilers, cooling, wastewater, and careers. 09:45 — Trace announces the return of Detective H2O during Industrial Water Week and reminds listeners why the week is designed to celebrate the industrial water treatment profession. 10:42 — Trace sets up the main interview by identifying miscommunication as a common professional challenge and introducing the need for better communication. 11:17 — Trace welcomes returning guest Paule Genest of TGWT Clean Technologies Inc. and references her previous appearances on Episode 192 and Episode 380 12:31 — Paule shares what she has been focused on since her last appearance, including growing relationships, improving communication, and supporting the water technologies community. 13:47 — Paule discusses her podcast-style work with power engineers and boiler operators, created to bring visibility to professionals who are often overlooked. 14:40 — Paule shares her work as an adjunct teacher at the University of Montreal, where her class on social responsibility and PR has become a required course. 15:23 — Paule talks about the Women of Water community, mentoring Abigail Coquette, and the value of documenting mentorship experiences for future learning. 16:05 — Trace reflects on an AWT Colorado Springs panel with baby boomers, Gen X, millennials, and Gen Z, showing how different generations respond to the same communication questions. 17:01 — Paule explains how she has learned to organize her communication around the listener and the message she wants them to take away. 18:30 — Trace introduces temperaments, with Paule identifying as yellow and Trace identifying as red, and connects the discussion to Kathleen Edelman's communication work. 19:31 — Trace explains why communication should be shaped for the recipient, using his Gen Z son and punctuation in text messages as an example. 19:54 — Paule explains that positive communication is not simply the opposite of negative communication, but a way of choosing words that influence emotional and relational outcomes. 21:40 — Paule emphasizes listening as an art and encourages professionals to pay attention to words, nonverbal cues, context, environment, and emotion. 22:43 — Paule explains why shared definitions matter, using "innovation" as an example of a word that may mean different things to different people. 23:54 — Paule discusses how people bring past experiences into present conversations and references I'm Okay, You're Okay and the child, parent, and adult framework. 26:00 — Trace asks Paule to explain her idea of "just enough fizz" in communication. 26:09 — Paule defines fizz as the energy, care, authenticity, vulnerability, and positive impact that help communication become more effective. 28:14 — Paule introduces the Fizz Factor Quiz and walks Trace through possible responses when tension rises in a team meeting. 29:29 — Paule compares communication styles to still water, espresso, sparkling water, and kombucha, helping listeners visualize different ways people show up in conversation. 30:30 — Paule explains the importance of speaking truth with empathy, checking tone and timing, and acknowledging how a message is received. 31:40 — Trace shares the example of a communication stick, where one person speaks until the other can accurately reflect what was said. 34:07 — Paule explains how to step back during emotional conversations by breathing, noticing physical cues, and returning to a listening mode. 37:10 — Paule reframes positive communication as "communication with a positive impact," focusing on the outcome it creates for both parties. 40:02 — Trace explains the three-part apology: acknowledging what happened, connecting with how it affected the other person, and asking how to make it right. 41:01 — Paule connects social responsibility with communication and explains why the outcome needs to be positive for both parties in a dialogue. 42:11 — Paule describes the communication model of speaker, listener, message, environment, noise, context, and feedback. 45:21 — After the sponsor break, Trace explains a question he uses when communication does not land as intended: "What did you just hear me say?" 45:55 — Paule suggests rating meetings and conversations by asking what each person felt, understood, and took away. 46:34 — Trace asks how communication changes in urgent safety situations, such as a boiler room issue that could lead to equipment failure or injury. 46:59 — Paule explains that direct safety communication may be necessary in the moment, but the team should revisit the conversation later to learn and preserve the relationship. 48:37 — Trace returns to the idea of "just enough fizz" and asks how to know whether the fizz is for the speaker, the listener, or the situation. 48:53 — Paule explains that fizz should respect both people, the situation, and the communication style of the other party. 50:47 — Paule shares how Melanie helped her realize that poetic communication still needs a clear action or outcome. 53:06 — Paule introduces Mathieu Laferrière's Feel, Know, Do approach as a practical structure for communication and email writing. 55:43 — Trace asks whether fizz works in email, where tone, facial expression, and visual cues are missing. 56:07 — Paule explains how to adapt the Feel, Know, Do structure for different temperaments, especially when writing to more direct communicators. 57:08 — Paule encourages listeners to ask people how they prefer to communicate, whether by email, text, Messenger, or another channel. 58:31 — Trace raises a practical technical example, asking whether fizz matters when simply reporting that a pump was out of prime. 58:54 — Paule explains that fizz is part of the experience and can still be present in technical updates through clarity, usefulness, and a human touch. 01:00:38 — Trace shares advice he received early in podcasting: it is okay to be impressed, but you have to be involved. 01:02:33 — Paule summarizes her key message: positive communication is not optional, it is operational. 01:03:15 — Paule begins the lightning round by creating a friendship holiday centered on writing a letter to yourself and to a friend. 01:04:52 — Paule shares her mantra, "Life is fragile," and connects it to people, the environment, Mother Nature, and water. 01:06:50 — Paule explains why she wishes more people understood the importance of boiler operators and power engineers. 01:10:21 — Trace summarizes the main lesson from the conversation: positive communication requires intentionally chosen words that help the other person understand the message. 01:11:16 — Trace explains how past experiences can shape miscommunication and why choosing words carefully can remove some of the "gray" in communication. 01:12:07 — Trace reflects on generational communication differences and encourages listeners to give others more grace.   Quotes "Be calm. Make sure your antennas are open and grab whatever is happening with the words, but also the nonverbal communication, the context, the environment."  "I would like to say that communication is not optional. It's operational."  "To be clear and check you know on our tone and timing, I've had to learn about my timing this year in hard ways."  "don't let kindness cloud the core message."    Connect with Paule Genest Phone: (514) 703-4317  Email: pgenest@tgwt.com  Website: TGWT: About | LinkedIn  LinkedIn: Paule (Paula) Genest, PRP, APR, Fellow CPRS, MCPRS | LinkedIn    Guest Resources Mentioned   The Gifts of Imperfect Parenting: Raising Children with Courage, Compassion, and Connection by Brené Brown PhD LMSW   Thanks for the Feedback: The Science and Art of Receiving Feedback Well by Douglas Stone (Author), Sheila Heen (Author)   I'm OK--You're OK: The Pioneering and Bestselling Self-Help Guide by Thomas Harris   Paule-Cast     Scaling UP! H2O Resources Mentioned  AWT (Association of Water Technologies)  Scaling UP! H2O Academy video courses  Submit a Show Idea  The Rising Tide Mastermind   192 The One With The Best Marketing Expert In The Water Treatment Industry  380 The WOW Effect: Women Leading Transformation in the Water Industry  117 The One With Temperament Expert, Kathleen Edelman   179 Another One that Teaches Us to Communicate Better with Others  281 The One About The Power of Kindness    Words of Water with James McDonald Today's definition is an electrochemical form of corrosion that occurs when two dissimilar metals are in electrical contact with each other in the presence of an electrolyte. Can you guess the word or phrase?    2026 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. 

A boiler failure can create pressure quickly: production is down, emotions are high, and the water treater may be the first person blamed. Cheryl Heiser of TGWT Clean Technologies Inc. joins Trace Blackmore, CWT, to walk through a more disciplined way to evaluate boiler issues by looking beyond chemistry alone.     Why Boiler Failures Need a Broader Lens  Cheryl brings field experience from the OEM boiler side, conventional water treatment, and purified tannin boiler treatment. Her perspective is rooted in the idea that no two boilers are the same. Design, operating conditions, fuel, history, circulation, steam separation, and customer practices all influence how a boiler behaves.  She explains the premise of her AWT paper: helping water treaters avoid being immediately blamed when boiler tube failures occur. In her case study, two twin HRSG units were producing 100,000 pounds per hour of steam each, with superheaters operating at 600 PSI and 750 degrees Fahrenheit. The failures did not point to a simple water treatment explanation. Instead, the investigation involved steam drum internals, carryover, tube geometry, circulation concerns, and normal operating water level.    What to Look for Inside the Boiler  Cheryl emphasizes inspection discipline. Take photos, use a borescope when available, enter the boiler when safe and possible, and look for patterns in deposits, discoloration, distortion, turbulence, uneven circulation, and steam drum staining. She also explains why orientation matters. A photo that makes sense during the inspection may be difficult to interpret later unless the location and direction are clearly identified.  Deposit analysis and metallurgical analysis can also help determine whether a failure is connected to deposits, material factors, overheating, combustion-side issues, or other mechanical contributors. The key is to understand the boiler as a system, not as a black box.    Trust, Documentation, and Customer Communication  When a boiler is down, the relationship with the customer matters as much as the technical investigation. Cheryl encourages water professionals to guide customers toward an investigative approach instead of a defensive reaction. That means asking better questions, understanding what relies on the steam, knowing the customer's priorities, and reassuring them that the goal is to find the root cause.  Trace closes the conversation by reinforcing the importance of documentation. Service reports protect the customer, the boiler, and the water treater. When recommendations are made, they need to be written down, repeated when necessary, and tied back to the operational risks they are meant to prevent.  Listen to the full conversation above. Explore related episodes below. Stay engaged, keep learning, and continue scaling up your knowledge!     Timestamps  02:31 — Trace Blackmore shares guidance for Certified Water Technologists on staying ahead of CEU requirements, preparing through CWT Prep, using AWT technical training for verified CEUs, taking the first step toward certification, and creating accountability around professional goals  08:01 — Trace introduces the episode's boiler troubleshooting theme, explaining that no two boilers are the same because design, operating conditions, fuel, history, and system "personality" can all affect how problems show up  08:38 — Words of Water with James McDonald  10:13 — Upcoming Events for Water Treatment Professionals  12:04 — Interview with Cheryl Heiser, International Business Development Manager, Tannin Guys Network, TGWT: Trace welcomes Cheryl and references her recent AWT conference paper on boiler failures.  12:38 — Cheryl shares her career path from field work with Babcock and Wilcox to conventional water treatment and purified tannin boiler treatment.  13:43 — Cheryl explains how her boiler background led naturally into water treatment through her interest in fireside conditions, water-side chemistry, and boiler metallurgy.  14:32 — Cheryl describes starting in boilers during an engineering internship in northern Alberta, where she worked around major boiler inspections, shutdowns, NDE inspectors, and boiler specialists.  16:46 — Cheryl explains why she wrote and presented an AWT paper: to help water treaters understand boiler failures from a physical and mechanical perspective, not only from a water treatment perspective.  17:38 — Cheryl outlines the premise of her paper: boiler tube failures may involve operating conditions, operator practices, design issues, circulation problems, overheating, or carryover, not only water chemistry.  19:32 — Cheryl explains why distinguishing between water-cooled tubes and steam-cooled tubes matters when evaluating boiler operating conditions and failure locations.  19:57 — Cheryl discusses superheater tube failures in the case study and explains how carryover from the steam drum contributed to deposits on the hottest part of the superheater.  20:52 — Cheryl describes generating bank tube failures related to tube geometry, low slope, flow stalling, repeated wetting and drying, magnetite behavior, and thinning.  22:17 — Cheryl explains how the normal operating water level in the steam drum made the generating bank issue worse because the top row of tubes was not fully flooded.  23:06 — Cheryl shares how to begin a boiler failure investigation by asking detailed questions about operation, combustion, water treatment, controls, mechanical conditions, leaks, and the customer's immediate priorities.  24:40 — Cheryl emphasizes inspection tools and practices, including photos, borescopes, entering the boiler, when possible, deposit analysis, and metallurgical analysis  27:16 — Cheryl explains how to keep inspection photos useful by labeling locations and capturing orientation, such as fire end, cold end, right side, left side, north end, or south end  29:27 — Cheryl identifies specific inspection clues in a steam drum, including water line stains, turbulence, uneven circulation, leaking internals, deposits, and deposit patterns  33:20 — Cheryl discusses how stress, downtime, and customer trust affect boiler failure investigations and why water treaters should guide an investigative approach rather than a reaction  37:40 — Cheryl discusses her AWT committee involvement, including Women on Water and the Boiler Committee, and how those roles support networking, confidence-building, technical contribution, and industry learning  41:40 — Cheryl recommends practical ways to learn boiler systems: trace lines, understand steam use, observe furnace viewports, note sight glass levels, and ask new questions during service visits  43:02 — Cheryl recommends the Babcock and Wilcox Steam book as a major boiler reference and encourages water professionals to understand combustion-side factors that can affect water-side problems 49:17 — Trace closes the episode by reinforcing better troubleshooting through structured questions, careful documentation, service reports, and a willingness to work with customers on root cause rather than defaulting to blame    Quotes  "And if you know enough about your boiler, you can help the customer find other reasons for failures other than just saying, well, it must be the water chemistry, it must be the water treatment."  "You have to ask a lot of questions."  "That's really the basis of a good investigative process."  "First and foremost, always take lots of photos."   "The more you can inspect, the better, even if at first it doesn't seem like that area might be related to the failure or the issue."  "This is where you can help them keep an open mind, guide an investigative approach rather than a reaction."   "But just knowing your customer's system and their priorities is really key."   "I wish more people understood how critical steam boilers are in manufacturing, food production, power generation, heating, and so many other things."   "So, whenever you mention something to a customer, get in the habit of writing that down in the service report."    Connect with Cheryl Heiser  Phone: (613) 277-7804  Email: cheiser@tgwt.com  Website: https://www.tgwt.com/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cheryl-heiser-02529373/     Guest Resources Mentioned   Gravitas: The 8 Strengths That Redefine Confidence by Lisa Sun   She Thinks Like a Boss: Leadership: 9 Essential Skills for New Female Leaders in Business and the Workplace by Jemma Roedel   Lean In: Women, Work, and the Will to Lead by Sheryl Sandberg   STEAM/its generation and use (42nd Edition)  Mechanical vs Chemical Reasons for Water Tube Boiler Failures's Technical Paper  Bobcock & Wilcox's Finding the Root Cause of Boiler Tube Failures   Bobcock & Wilcox's The Importance of Boiler Water and Steam Chemistry Chapter 14 - Boiler System Failures    Scaling UP! H2O Resources Mentioned  AWT (Association of Water Technologies)  Scaling UP! H2O Academy video courses  Submit a Show Idea  The Rising Tide Mastermind   Words of Water with James McDonald   Today's definition is an expression that describes the terminal settling velocity of small, spherical particles falling through a fluid under laminar-flow conditions, based on the balance of gravitational, buoyant, and viscous drag forces. Can you guess the word or phrase?     2026 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. 

  Every career in industrial water treatment is shaped by decisions, mentors, credentials, systems, and the willingness to keep learning. In this special mailbag-style episode, Trace Blackmore, CWT, answers questions from the Scaling UP! Nation about how he entered water treatment, why he started the podcast, what professional credentials have meant to him, and what he is still working to improve. This conversation gives water professionals a practical look at the habits behind a long career in the industry: getting involved early, documenting customer conversations, building strong teams, using repeatable processes, and staying open to new tools like AI. From Family Influence to a Career in Water Treatment Trace shares that his start in water treatment came through his father, who brought him along to accounts after school. His early memories include watching test results change color, learning around hospital accounts, and seeing how water treatment decisions were made in the field. Before entering water treatment full-time, Trace worked in financial services and received strong sales training. However, he realized he was not enjoying the work. His father invited him to become a service technician, which led to a career path that combined technical problem-solving, customer service, sales, and a deep appreciation for the industrial water community. Why Credentials, Associations, and Documentation Matter Trace explains why the Certified Water Technologist credential remains one of the professional accomplishments he values most. He also discusses his LEED GA and LEED AP credentials, his time as a former president of the Association of Water Technologies, and his training as a master facilitator. For professionals building their own careers, the larger lesson is clear: credentials, online presence, and association involvement can shape how customers and peers understand your expertise. Trace also emphasizes the importance of documenting conversations, decisions, and recommendations so teams and customers have a clear record when issues arise. The Podcast, Rising Tide Mastermind, and Raising the Industry Bar Trace reflects on launching the Scaling UP! H2O Podcast in 2017 after encouragement from Charlie Cicchetti and Conor Parrish. What began as a monthly podcast eventually became a weekly resource with structured processes, procedures, and a growing audience of water professionals. He also discusses the honor of having Scaling UP! H2O recognized as the official podcast of the Association of Water Technologies, as well as the creation of Rising Tide Mastermind, which now includes 76 members across 7 groups. Both platforms reflect the same goal: creating spaces where industrial water professionals can learn, connect, and improve together. Technology, AI, and the Next Phase of Learning When asked about the biggest change in the industry, Trace points to data collection, remote monitoring, the Internet of Things, and AI. He remembers a time when system information required an on-site visit. Today, water professionals can review controller data, reports, and trends before arriving in the field. Trace also shares how his Doctor of Business Administration program is changing the way he thinks about research, learning, and long-term growth. His 2026 goals include continuing that academic work, strengthening the podcast's educational value, and giving family and personal commitments proper space on the calendar. This episode is not only a personal reflection. It is a reminder that long-term success in water treatment depends on learning, relationships, systems, and the willingness to keep improving. Listen to the full conversation above. Explore related episodes below. Stay engaged, keep learning, and continue scaling up your knowledge! Timestamps  02:35 — Trace opens the episode with a May update and connects the season to a practical cooling tower challenge: pollen in Southern systems. 04:30 — Trace explains why this episode is different: Scaling UP! Nation asked for more personal stories and career reflections from him. 06:50 — Trace highlights the 6th Annual Oilfield Water Markets Conference and shares the Scaling UP! H2O listener discount code. 08:00 — Trace mentions the International Water Association Leading Edge Conference on Water and Wastewater Technologies in Houston. 08:50 — Trace points healthcare-focused water professionals toward ASHE's Healthcare Facilities Innovation Conference in Minneapolis. 09:50 — James McDonald presents a new Words of Water definition focused on wet bulb temperature and cooling tower performance. 11:20 — Trace explains why receiving compliments used to be difficult and how mentorship helped him respond with more respect and gratitude. 13:50 — Trace answers how he got started in water treatment through his father, field visits, testing, and early exposure to accounts. 15:50 — Trace describes leaving financial services, joining his father's company as a service technician, and finding work he genuinely enjoyed. 18:20 — Trace explains the credentials behind his name, beginning with the Certified Water Technologist designation. 20:25 — Trace discusses LEED GA and LEED AP credentials and how they helped him communicate with commercial building owners. 23:00 — Trace shares why his AWT leadership experience and master facilitator training matter to his professional identity. 24:55 — Trace explains how Charlie Cicchetti introduced him to podcasts and encouraged him to start what became Scaling UP! H2O. 27:30 — Trace describes the podcast's early cadence, moving from monthly to biweekly and then weekly episodes. 32:30 — Trace identifies AWT naming Scaling UP! H2O its official podcast as a crowning moment for the show. 33:45 — Trace shares personal and professional achievements, including adopting his son, building the podcast, and launching Rising Tide Mastermind. 35:30 — Trace explains how he balances podcasting, business, and other responsibilities through team support, time blocking, procedures, and the 12 Week Year. 41:05 — Trace shares advice to his younger self: join an association early, get involved, document everything, and build relationships in the industry. 44:40 — Trace identifies data, remote monitoring, IoT, AI, Legionella, PFAS, and water management plans as major changes in the industry. 48:10 — Trace shares scuba diving as his favorite non-water-treatment hobby and reflects on teaching more than 1,000 people to dive. 50:00 — Trace explains how pursuing a Doctor of Business Administration is teaching him research, academic discipline, and new ways to learn. 54:05 — Trace shares his 2026 goals, including progressing through his DBA program, expanding podcast resources, and prioritizing family on his calendar Connect with Scaling UP! H2O   Submit a show idea: Submit a Show Idea   LinkedIn: in/traceblackmore/   YouTube: @ScalingUpH2O  Scaling UP! H2O Resources Mentioned  AWT Audible Scaling UP! H2O Academy video courses 12 Week Year Plan  The Rising Tide Mastermind 420 Tapping Into Tech: How Ben Frieders Uses AI to Elevate Water Treatment Marketing  Words of Water with James McDonald  Today's definition is the lowest temperature that can be achieved through evaporation alone and is used to evaluate cooling tower performance.  Do you know the word or phrase?  2026 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. 

Industrial water professionals often think about water in terms of treatment, compliance, reuse, and operational risk. John Durand brings a different but closely connected view: water as infrastructure, water as a managed resource, and water as a strategic part of energy development.  John Durand, one of the early pioneers of the water midstream sector and CEO of Magnificent Desolation, LLC, joins Trace Blackmore to explain how produced water moved from a disposal challenge to a large-scale infrastructure opportunity.  From Disposal Model to Managed Resource  John describes how the growth of horizontal drilling changed the scale of water management in the Permian Basin. A vertical well once used a fraction of the water required for today's horizontal wells, creating a need for pipelines, reuse systems, recycling strategies, and long-term infrastructure planning.  He explains that the water midstream sector emerged because the old approach—trucking water or simply sending it to disposal—could not keep pace with the volume. Today, the conversation has shifted toward produced water reuse, recycling, and the search for beneficial uses outside of oil and gas.  Produced Water, Salinity, and Future Use  John notes that produced water can carry very high salinity, sometimes many times higher than seawater. That creates treatment challenges, especially when thinking beyond oilfield reuse and toward broader industrial applications.  He also points to future opportunities for produced water in data centers, electric generation, cooling applications, and possibly other beneficial reuse pathways. The key message is clear: water once treated as waste may become an important resource if the industry continues to innovate responsibly.  Infrastructure, Trust, and Public-Private Partnerships  Beyond pipelines and treatment, John emphasizes the role of relationships. He shares examples from Midland and Odessa, where long-term water supply arrangements and wastewater treatment infrastructure created value for both communities and industry.  For water professionals, the lesson extends beyond oilfield water. Large infrastructure projects require technical expertise, capital, public trust, and long-term credibility. John's experience shows that durable solutions depend as much on trust and collaboration as they do on engineering.  Staying Curious in a Changing Industry  John closes with a practical leadership reminder: stay curious, ask better questions, and keep learning. Whether the topic is produced water, AI, energy independence, or infrastructure, he encourages professionals to dig deeper and continue expanding their understanding.  Listen to the full conversation above. Explore related episodes below. Stay engaged, keep learning, and continue scaling up your knowledge!    Timestamps  02:50 — Trace introduces the episode's central topic: the water midstream sector and how produced water is becoming a true asset instead of only a waste stream 06:31 — John Durand joins the conversation as one of the early pioneers of the water midstream sector and CEO of Magnificent Desolation 07:01 — John introduces his 41-year career in the energy business, his Louisiana roots, and his lifelong connection to oil and gas 08:08 — John explains the origin of the name Magnificent Desolation and its connection to Buzz Aldrin's words after walking on the moon 10:15 — John shares how lifelong curiosity, including reading an entire set of encyclopedias at age 12, shaped his career and learning mindset 11:28 — John walks through his energy career, from upstream oil and gas to natural gas marketing, power generation, conventional midstream, and eventually water midstream 14:22 — John explains how a call about water being "a big deal in the future" led him into Pioneer Natural Resources and large-scale water infrastructure 15:29 — John describes how the water midstream sector emerged as Pioneer built infrastructure to move water across a large acreage position 16:21 — John explains why horizontal drilling and hydraulic fracturing changed the scale of water demand and produced water management in the Permian Basin 17:39 — Trace asks John to define the water midstream sector, setting up a practical explanation of acquisition, movement, reuse, recycling, and disposal 19:57 — John addresses a common misconception about water midstream: the industry is moving beyond disposal toward reuse, recycling, and beneficial use 23:08 — John explains how the industry learned to manage massive water volumes through infrastructure, collaboration, and private capital investment 25:25 — John discusses produced water treatment considerations, including heavy metals, high salinity, desalination, and waste-product management 27:56 — John defines upstream, midstream, and downstream so listeners can understand how water midstream fits into the broader energy sector 30:09 — John explains why relationships matter in water midstream, especially when developing long-term projects and public-private partnerships 31:24 — John shares examples from Midland and Odessa, where municipal wastewater arrangements created long-term value for both communities and industry 34:31 — John explains why trust is the foundation of lasting relationships and how completed projects can create credibility for future opportunities 38:26 — John reflects on when he realized the water midstream sector was becoming durable and strategically important as private capital entered the space 40:03 — John looks ahead to the future of water midstream, including beneficial reuse, data centers, electric generation, and regional water infrastructure.  44:15 — John discusses how the geopolitical environment affects energy, water management, infrastructure, and U.S. energy independence.  01:04:02 — Words of Water with James McDonald   Quotes "I have always been a very curious individual."  "It was produced water and freshwater."  "The misconception is oil-filled water, and the midstream water industry is just handling waste."  "It's really relationships and how you create and develop those relationships."  "Once you develop that trust over time, that's what it comes down to."  "The future really is into that term that you're going to hear a lot more of, and that's beneficial reuse."  "Be curious, stay curious, ask the right questions, be bold."    Connect with John Durand  Phone: (214) 232-4953  Email: Johnrdurand19@gmail.com  Website: 6th Annual Oilfield Water Markets Conference - Oilfield Water Connection   News & Events for Oilfield Water Management - Oilfield Water Connection   LinkedIn: John Durand | LinkedIn     Guest Resources Mentioned   Oilfield Water Connection 6th Annual Oilfield Water Markets Conference - Oilfield Water Connection  Texas Alliance of Energy Producers Produced Water Society Inc  When Pride Still Mattered:  A Life of Vince Lombardi by David Maraniss  The Shadow of War: A Novel of the Cuban Missile Crisis by Jeff Shaara  Britannica's Permian Basin   Scaling UP! H2O Resources Mentioned  AWT (Association of Water Technologies)  Scaling UP! H2O Academy video courses  Submit a Show Idea  The Rising Tide Mastermind   Words of Water with James McDonald Today's definition is the cloudiness or haziness of water caused by suspended particles that scatter light.  Do you know the word or phrase?    2026 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.   

"Document everything." Spring startup season exposes more than operational stress. It also reveals what happened months earlier when systems were laid up poorly, maintenance steps were skipped, or warning signs were documented but not acted on. In this episode, Trace Blackmore connects that reality to a broader infrastructure problem: hidden damage inside pressure piping systems that operators often cannot see until a leak, rupture, or budget crisis forces action.     Why hidden pressure pipe problems are so expensive  Chris McDonald, CEO and President of CPM Pipelines, explains why pressure pipe inspection and rehabilitation deserve more attention from utilities and industrial facilities. His core point is practical: many owners are still making repair or replacement decisions without first getting a high-resolution look at the pipe's actual condition.  That creates two risks. First, teams may spend too late, after a failure creates public, operational, or safety consequences. Second, they may spend too much, replacing long stretches of pipe when only a targeted section actually needs rehabilitation. Chris argues that better inspection narrows uncertainty and helps owners avoid both extremes.  Inspection first, then the right rehabilitation scope  A major theme in the conversation is that CPM Pipelines works across both inspection and rehab, which changes how projects are evaluated. Chris notes that many inspection firms inspect, and many rehab firms rehabilitate, but few do both. That difference matters because the best answer is not always the biggest project.  He shares an example of a recent force main inspection that showed half the line was in bad condition and half was in very bad condition, yet the data still allowed the agency to target the rehab scope precisely. According to Chris, that approach saved a small utility of almost $10 million. He also explains why trenchless rehab can often reduce project schedules from months to weeks and save roughly 50% compared with traditional dig-and-replace work.  Leadership, documentation, and building the right team  The conversation also moves beyond pipelines into business leadership. Chris reflects on entrepreneurship, the value of solution-driven work over commodity selling, and the importance of documenting systems early if a company intends to scale.  He also emphasizes team alignment, core values, and recognizing quickly when someone is in the wrong seat. For owners and managers, that part of the episode is as useful as the technical discussion. The takeaway is clear: strong execution depends on both sound field data and disciplined internal systems.  Pressure pipe problems are often invisible until they become urgent. This conversation shows why better inspection, better decision timing, and better documentation can improve both infrastructure outcomes and business results.  Listen to the full conversation above. Explore related episodes below. Stay engaged, keep learning, and continue scaling up your knowledge!    Timestamps  01:18 — A call to action for the Global 6K for Water on May 16, 2026  02:20 — Trace introduces the podcast, notes that spring startup season is underway and warns that cooling and irrigation systems laid up poorly can produce rusty water and decayed piping, often leading clients to blame the water treater.   05:23 — "Words of Water" game show, James McDonald   06:48 — Trace highlights upcoming events, encouraging listeners to use the Scaling UP! events page to plan their professional development  09:59 — Guest Chris McDonald shares his 25‑year journey through US Pipe, distribution and finally entrepreneurship; he credits his wife's support and explains how she joined the company without reporting directly to him  14:30 — Chris recalls that working in manufacturing and distribution taught him that value comes from solving problems rather than selling the same products as competitors, which prompted him to launch CPM Pipelines  16:16 — CPM Pipelines now focuses exclusively on pressure‑pipe inspection and rehabilitation. Chris describes how combining contracting and representation allows his team to inspect, assess and rehabilitate pipelines using high‑resolution inspection technologies and exclusive trenchless lining systems  18:44 — He argues that trenchless rehabilitation can cut costs by roughly 50 percent and reduce a six‑month dig‑and‑replace project to six weeks, noting that pressure‑pipe adoption has lagged due to access and bypass challenges but is beginning to change  21:14 — A recent force‑main inspection exemplifies their approach: high‑resolution data pinpointed a failing section, enabling targeted rehabilitation that saved a small utility nearly $10 million compared with wholesale replacement  22:40 — Chris and Trace discuss infrastructure sprawl and water billing; Chris observes that development patterns spread systems ever outward, straining budgets, yet people still balk at paying $20 for water while spending far more on cell phones  25:21 — CPM insists on inspecting pressure pipes before rehabilitation; Chris explains that many leaking pipes remain structurally sound and that sometimes replacing a short force main is cheaper than an inspection, whereas longer mains justify data‑driven decisions  32:08 — To find clients, the team monitors news for main failures, uses AI to scan meeting notes and leverages LinkedIn and ZoomInfo; Chris notes that industrial clients often have funds to act quickly while municipal agencies defer action until failures become public  34:49 — Many early pipe failures stem from random construction defects rather than gradual wear; detecting a dent hidden beneath coating may require high‑resolution tools because conventional models cannot predict these anomalies  40:49 — Chris emphasizes the importance of putting the right people in the right seats, recognizing bad fits quickly and hiring high‑level talent. CPM grows organically without borrowing money and values of alignment among employees, contractor partners and clients    Quotes "If there's nobody else that sees value in what I do, whether or not I see value in it is irrelevant."  "You don't want to invest too early. You don't want to invest too late. And you don't want to invest too much, right?"  "Don't let any good conduit go unused, right?"  "You can't do this by yourself. It takes a team."  "Document everything."  "Always be a student."     Connect with Chris MacDonald  Phone: (760) 809-5391   Email: chris@cpmpipelines.com  Website: CPM Pipelines  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-macdonald-95805b13/   CPM Pipelines LinkedIn  BulletLiner System LinkedIn    Guest Resources Mentioned  The Future is Faster Than You Think: Chris MacDonald Of CPM Pipelines On How Leaders Are Preparing for The Innovations, Disruptions, and Strategies That Will Define Tomorrow    Scaling UP! H2O Resources Mentioned  AWT (Association of Water Technologies)  Scaling UP! H2O Academy video courses  Submit a Show Idea  Global 6k    Words of Water with James McDonald Today's definition is an expression for calculating the solubility of a gas in a fluid based on temperature and partial pressure.  Do you know the word or phrase?    2026 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.    This episode is made possible through our valued partners at:   

Blake Johnston is joined by AFL and Port Adelaide legend Ryan Burton for Day 3 of the Randwick Carnival. One Group 1 on the card — but we're hunting a $101 multi.We cover the All Aged Stakes and the Champagne Stakes in full, break down every runner, and build our multi leg by leg.ALL AGED STAKES (1400m)A wide open race — but one horse stands out as the value play. Giga Kick has the class but does he need the sting out of the track? Jimmysstar has been inconclusive this prep. Angel Capital gets James McDonald for the first time and is desperate for the rise to 1400m. Fangirl is over the odds at double figures. And Beiwacht — flying, maps perfectly, back to 1400m for the first time since his Golden Rose demolition. He's the one.CHAMPAGNE STAKESCan Campione D'Italia stamp himself as the only dual G1 winner of the two-year-old crop? Miss Chanel never runs a bad race — wide draw but strong late. Fireball keeps chasing home his stablemate — can the low draw help him turn the tables? And Southend — two from two and unbeaten. How good is he? We find out Saturday.Full analysis. Form. Value plays. And a $101 multi.

A documentary is set to immortalise the storied career of champion jockey James McDonald.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

WARC's new Global Ad Forecast maps out three scenarios for media spend as a result of war in the Middle East. WARC's James McDonald and Alex Brownsell make sense of the data, and what the current volatility will mean for advertisers in 2026.

April 3, 2026- State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald discusses efforts to ensure that New York's kids have access to vaccines regardless of shifting immunization policies at the federal level.

The Championships Day 1 is here — and the Rollover Challenge is alive.

What does the future of public health look like and what does it cost to build it? In this episode, ASTHO member Dr. James McDonald, Commissioner of Health for New York State, returns to the show to unpack the state's $1.7 billion investment in a new, state-of-the-art Wadsworth Center Laboratory.  Set to consolidate five aging facilities into one 655,000-square-foot, LEED Gold-certified campus in Albany, the new lab is designed to transform how New York detects, tracks, and responds to public health threats—from infectious diseases and wastewater surveillance to antimicrobial resistance and emerging pathogens. Dr. McDonald explains why co-locating more than 800 scientists alongside academic partners will accelerate research and innovation, how lessons from COVID-19 are shaping flexible, future-proof lab design, and why investments like this are critical to national health security.Journal of Public Health Management and PracticeLiving With Long COVID: Stories, Science, and Public Health

It's Tancred Stakes Day, and Woodhead, Loydy and BJ are across the big races on a stacked Saturday of the Sydney Autumn Carnival 2026.The boys break down the $2 million Australian Cup 2026 at Flemington — Birdman chasing a hat-trick, Tom Kitten drawn widest in barrier 12, and Pride Of Jenni looking to make amends. Over at Rosehill, they cover the Vinery Stud Stakes 2026 (NZ Oaks winner Ohope Wins making her Australian debut under James McDonald), the Emancipation Stakes (Idle Flyer as short-priced favourite), and the Tancred Stakes 2026 — Aeliana backing up seven days after a Group 1 win to face Dubai Honour, the defending champion. Six Waller runners in a nine-horse field. Absolute chaos.Plus footy chat, big opinions, and banter that makes this the most entertaining horse racing podcast in Australia.New episodes weekly. Subscribe wherever you get your pods.

With plenty to celebrate offshore, Michael Guerin looks at the Kiwi connections to the Hong Kong Derby result, and celebrates James McDonald's record-breaking win. Plus, he catches up with Sir Brendan Lindsay for a Joliestar update, before checking in with not so Lil Mickey G. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

David Fowler, David Gately and Mike Wood form an expert panel hosted by David Stanley to dissect a massive weekend of racing where James McDonald broke records and Autumn Glow continued his streak.

Tom Brandvold, CWT, has lived industrial water treatment from the inside out. In this conversation, he traces that path from sweeping floors and running sample bottles as a kid to leading Premier Water and Energy Technology and serving as a former president of Association of Water Technologies (AWT). The result is not just a career story. It is a useful look at how credibility, collaboration, and standards are built over time in this industry. How Association of Water Technologies (AWT) was formed One of the most valuable parts of this discussion is Tom's explanation of how Association of Water Technologies (AWT) began. The association did not start primarily as a training platform or networking group. It grew out of a business crisis in the 1980s, when independent water treaters were struggling to secure product liability and pollution coverage at prices that would not put them out of business. Tom explains how that pressure led a small group to create an insurance-focused structure that eventually required an association. From there, the collaborative side of AWT expanded into education, technical papers, meetings, and broader support for the independent water treater. Why Association of Water Technologies (AWT)'s culture feels different Tom also gives language to something many professionals have experienced but may not have fully defined: AWT members often compete in the same field while still sharing technical knowledge freely. He points to relationships as the reason. Trust, geography, and the practical reality of how accounts are won reduce the sense of technical knowledge as a threat. That helps explain why AWT has become a place where mistakes, lessons learned, and operating insight can be shared in ways that genuinely help other professionals improve. Why the CWT is changing A major focus of the episode is the next chapter of the Certified Water Technologist designation. Tom explains that AWT is pursuing ISO-aligned process work and ANSI recognition so the CWT carries stronger independent, third-party credibility. He walks through why that matters, what the CWT commission is doing, how the current process may change, and why he believes ANSI recognition will help the credential gain broader acceptance with customers, spec writers, government authorities, and technical institutions. What this means for professionals now This conversation lands on a practical point: the CWT is meant to distinguish serious professionals without making the credential feel inaccessible. Tom is clear that those already preparing should not wait. He also underscores that AWT technical training supports the body of knowledge, but it does not teach to the exam. For leaders, owners, and technical professionals, this episode is a strong reminder that industry standards matter most when they improve confidence, sharpen judgment, and strengthen trust in the field. Listen to the full conversation above. Explore related episodes below. Stay engaged, keep learning, and continue scaling up your knowledge! Timestamps 00:46 — Trace explains why AWT matters so much to industrial water treatment professionals. 03:37 — Trace shares the story behind the "magic button" and how it helps people connect at industry events. 07:20 - Upcoming Events for Water Treatment Professionals   11:05 - Words of Water with James McDonald 13:20 - Interview with Tom Brandvold, CWT, President at Premier Water and Energy Technologies and former president of the Association of the Water Technologies 18:18 - Tom explains the origin story of AWT 24:05 - Tom talks about volunteering within AWT over the years 34:14 - The conversation shifts to the CWT designation 37:01 - Tom explains why AWT is pursuing ANSI recognition for the CWT 48:11 - Tom and Trace discuss how ANSI-recognized CWTs could matter in legislation and water safety language 49:00 - Tom talks about the biggest challenge in the accreditation process: ISO 17024 conformance 53:35 - Tom makes an important distinction: AWT training does not teach to the exam 55:03 - Tom explains why professionals should pursue the CWT   Quotes "The association ah was founded so that those who joined could have access to this captive insurance market where we were self-insuring so that all of us could stay in business." "The veil of threat is removed, and you share very freely." "We are committed as a trade association to add prominence to the CWT certification." "If you want to distinguish yourself from everyone else out there, this is the way to do it." "My magic wand would ensure that everybody has safe drinking water" Connect with Tom Brandvold, CWT Email: carmac@premierwater.com Website: CRB Water | Safe, Sustainable & Data-Driven Water Treatment Solutions LinkedIn: CRB Water: Overview | LinkedIn   Guest Resources Mentioned  ANSI / ANAB Personnel Certification Accreditation  ISO/IEC 17024:2012 AWT Technical Reference & Training Manual AWT CWT Exam Candidate Handbook Kelly: More Than My Share of It All by Clarence L. Johnson Titanic Thompson: The Man Who Bet on Everything by Kevin Cook A.J. Foyt - Volume 1: Survivor, Champion, Legend Hardcover by Art Garner   Scaling UP! H2O Resources Mentioned  AWT (Association of Water Technologies)  AWT – Become Certified Scaling UP! H2O Academy video courses  Submit a Show Idea  The Rising Tide Mastermind Fearless Pricing by Casey Brown 410 Unleash Your Pricing Power: Casey Brown's 'Fearless Pricing' Revolutionizes Business Value 154 The One With AWT President, Tom Brandvold, CWT 426 Sustaining Success: Tom Hutchison on Leading Through Generational Change 127 The One With Tom Hutchison   Words of Water with James McDonald Today's definition is a thin barrier that only permits passage of certain particulates or compounds to pass through but inhibits others. It is a semi-permeable skin of which the pass-through is determined by the size or special nature of the particles or compounds. Can you guess the word?      2026 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 happens when a water chemist leaves the lab and heads to the pump room?  Dr. Jake Elliott knows firsthand. A former PhD researcher who studied resource recovery from trade‑waste customers, Jake now manages accounts at Hydro flow in Melbourne, working with cooling towers, boilers, chemical dosing rigs and wastewater treatment systems. He joins host Trace Blackmore to discuss how rigorous research, regulatory compliance and process automation translate into practical field work for industrial water treatment professionals. From PhD Research to Industrial Practice Jake's academic background informs the way he approaches operations. While completing his PhD he investigated how to recover resources from wastewater permits, synthesizing municipal data with bench‑scale testing. Today he draws on that experience to design treatment systems and advise customers on cooling‑tower and boiler chemistry. He emphasizes long‑term efficiency: spending a little extra time or money now can save much more later. This mentality helps him balance the competing demands of design, installation, sales and service, and underscores Hydro flow's support for continuing education. Balancing Service, Sales and Efficiency No two days look alike for Jake. One week he is calibrating pH probes, inspecting cooling towers and designing dosing skids; the next he is troubleshooting filtration systems or negotiating wastewater discharge limits. To stay ahead of his schedule, he deliberately "drags things as early as possible" and completes visits well before month‑end. Jake uses the iPhone Reminders app to tag tasks by site, service type and system; location triggers ensure he never forgets critical parts. He advocates automating routine reports and allowing generative AI to massage field notes into professional correspondence, provided every line is double‑checked for accuracy. Even at the end of a long day, tools such as ChatGPT help him strike the right tone in customer emails. Regulation, Training and Risk Management Jake contrasts cooling‑tower regulation in Australia with the more fragmented approach in the United States. In Victoria every tower must be registered, documented and sampled on a schedule; non‑compliance leads to fines. The risk management plan – the term used in Australia for what many Americans call a water management plan – is a comprehensive document containing details of the cooling tower, associated chillers and a unique registration number. Australian practitioners follow the AS/NZS 3666 standard, and third‑party RMP reviews and audits are annual requirements. Jake notes that an equivalent certification does not yet exist for international candidates seeking the Certified Water Technologist designation, although metric‑based exams may be under consideration. Sales, Communication and Mentorship Serving existing customers often means identifying the real decision drivers. Jake categorizes site priorities – cost reduction, profit increase, ease of use and product quality – and tailors proposals accordingly. He maintains open communication with influencers while gently probing approval limits, sometimes splitting quotes so that local managers can sign off without escalating requests. Mentorship is both a given and a goal: Hydro flow holds monthly meetings where technicians, account managers and production staff share problems and solutions, allowing juniors to benefit from seasoned expertise. Jake encourages newcomers to simply "do it" – the blend of hands‑on work, autonomy and flexibility makes industrial water treatment a rewarding career. In his lightning‑round advice he urges his younger self to be selective about commitments and to automate early. Dr. Jake Elliott demonstrates that a rigorous scientific background and a passion for efficiency translate into better service, improved compliance and happier customers. His tips on process automation, risk management and sales communication help water professionals navigate a complex landscape while maintaining work–life balance. Listen to the full conversation above. Stay engaged, keep learning, and continue scaling up your knowledge! Timestamps  01:14 - Trace Blackmore notes the conclusion of the 2026 AWT Technical Training (Session 1) and then shares his doctor's office story 09:15 - Words of Water with James McDonald  11:45 - Upcoming Events for Water Treatment Professionals   15:32 - Introduction with Jake Elliott, PhD, Senior Account Manager at Hydro Flow  18:47 - Jake's Advice for those taking a Doctorate Degree 23:19 - How Jake came to work at Hydro Flow 44:24 - Tips from Jake   Quotes "Very happy to spend a little bit of extra time or money now to save a lot of time or money later." "If you can get some of your thoughts down and then let ChatGPT massage that into something that is good communication, again, double check it before you send it." "I would tell myself to be selective in what you say yes to … automate hard, automate early." "Autonomy, flexibility. It's really the perfect package, definitely for me and for people like me." Connect with Jake Elliott, PhD  Email: jakeelliott91@hotmail.com   Website: https://hydroflow.com.au/   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/hydro-flow/   Jake Elliott | LinkedIn    Guest Resources Mentioned   AS / NZS 3666 Air-Handling and Water Systems of Buildings - Western Australia Legislation and guidelines for cooling towers and water systems - Government of Western Australia (Department of Health) ASSE/IAPMO/ANSI 12080   Alien Clay by Adrian Tchaikovsky (Audible audiobook) Dropbear (Paperback) by Evelyn Araluen (Author)  The Winner's Mindset Audible Logo Audible Audiobook – Unabridged Shane Watson (Author, Narrator)    Scaling UP! H2O Resources Mentioned  AWT (Association of Water Technologies)  AWT - Become Certified Google Earth Scaling UP! H2O Academy video courses  Submit a Show Idea  The Rising Tide Mastermind   Words of Water with James McDonald  Today's definition is the curved upper surface of a liquid in a tube, such as a graduated cylinder.  Can you guess the word?    2026 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. 

Six winners. Eight rides. One Saturday. James McDonald is two wins away from breaking Damien Oliver's all-time Australian Group 1 record — and BJ, Pat and Woodhead are all over it.This week's episode is an absolute must-listen heading into the Sydney Autumn Carnival. The boys break down J-Mac's historic six-winner haul, Caballus's stunning $19 Newmarket upset, and Sheza Alibi's Randwick Guineas demolition job — the first filly to do it in 13 years. Oh, and the ATC just won a Supreme Court battle against Racing NSW and Peter V'landys. Wild week.Then it's straight into your Coolmore Classic Day tips and Peter Young Stakes preview for Saturday 14 March. Is Lazzura really going to carry 58kg to a Coolmore Classic win? Can Warwoven nail the Pago Pago Stakes to lock in his Golden Slipper 2026 spot? And who wins the clash between Buckaroo and Light Infantry Man at Caulfield?If you're serious about Australian horse racing, this is the podcast you should already be following. Hit subscribe and never miss a winner.Australian horse racing podcast, Sydney Autumn Carnival 2026, Coolmore Classic 2026, Golden Slipper 2026, Pago Pago Stakes Warwoven, horse racing tips Australia, Australian Turf Club, Peter V'landys, Rosehill races March 2026, Buckaroo, Light Infantry Man, Australian racing podcast weekly preview, free tips, racing

Industrial water training only works when the knowledge transfers. That means the material lands with the audience, survives the drive home, and shows up later in the field when decisions get made.  Dan Merritt, CWT, Sales Manager at CH2O, brings a rare perspective to that problem. He started as a teacher (chemistry, calculus, physics), entered industrial water treatment on February 5, 2002, and later became part of the AWT training team. This conversation follows the path from classroom instruction to boiler rooms and cooling towers, then uses that journey to examine what makes technical training "stick" for working professionals.  From educator to water treater, then back to educator  Dan shares how leaving graduate study, teaching high school and community college, and stepping into service work shaped his approach to explaining technical concepts. The throughline is simple: the instructor owns the clarity. When someone in the room does not understand, the response is not frustration. The response is translation.  Bridging the knowledge gap without dumbing it down  Trace and Dan describe a common failure mode in technical instruction: experts answering correctly, but not helpfully. They frame the goal as closing the gap between what the instructor knows and what the audience can realistically absorb in the moment, especially for attendees building competence over time.  Stories and demonstrations as tools for retention  The episode highlights why AWT trainers lean on stories and physical demonstrations, from an Archimedes fountain to static electricity experiments. Dan explains how the "light bulb moment" is the reward of teaching, and why trainers adapt when a method fails (including what humidity can do to a demo in a room full of people).  Keeping the CWT exam in proper context  The conversation also draws a firm boundary: training supports growth, but it does not replace the CWT experience requirement and recommendations. Dan and Trace emphasize accurate language around the credential and reinforce what the training can and cannot do.  Listen to the full conversation above. Explore related episodes below. Stay engaged, keep learning, and continue scaling up your knowledge!    Timestamps  01:38 — Setup for a two-part series to help listeners prepare for AWT Technical Training 02:24 — AWT Technical Training logistics: March 10–13 in Frisco, Texas (near Dallas) 03:10 — Trace shares why AWT Technical Training matters personally (mentorship, community, support) 05:51 — "Desert Pete" story: why instructors "fill the bottle" by giving back through training 11:53 — Words of Water with James McDonald: definition + answer ("flow rate") 14:13 — Events mentioned for water professionals  18:42 — Trace introduces the guest: Dan Merritt (CH2O) and their history through AWT 19:39 — Dan's background: 24 years in water treatment; former teacher (chemistry, calculus, physics). 22:44 — Dan's entry into water treatment: Industrial Water Engineering ride-alongs + first field impressions 26:49 — Move to Pacific Northwest + start at CH2O (service tech) and why that timing mattered 31:40 — How Dan and Trace connected through AWT training; Dan begins teaching (service tech reporting). 34:17 — Dan's AWT involvement expands: education committee + Intro to Water Treatment online course task force 35:31 — Dan asked to teach the chemistry class; Trace frames "know your audience" and confidence gap 36:50 — Teaching tools and learning from misses: demos (Archimedes fountain, static electricity + humidity issue) 37:49 — The key teaching principle: "you're the instructor; it's your job to explain it clearly" (adult learners) 41:31 — Bridging the knowledge gap: why brilliance can miss the audience, and why training must translate 44:48 — Why a math/calculations class helps: making the "bang, there's your answer" steps teachable 50:19 — Troubleshooting reality: many forces in boilers/cooling towers; deeper understanding improves diagnosis 52:00 — Field story lesson: softener cleaning foam incident (why stories stick and prevent repeat mistakes) 56:19 — CWT clarification: training helps, but it cannot replace required experience and recommendations 58:31 — CWT wording matters: it's an "exam," not a "test" (Trace mentions Angela Pike's correction)   Quotes  "It's your job to explain the material in a way that we can understand it."  "It's our responsibility to take this information, to package it in a way so you, not me, you can understand it." "Math is the only known axiom that we have. And it kind of quiets the chaos." "And again, it's not a test. Do not say that it's a test. It is an exam."    Connect with Dan Merritt, CWT  Email: dmerritt@ch2o.com   Website: .https://www.ch2o.com/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniel-merritt-cwt-18413819/ CH2O, inc.: Overview | LinkedIn    Guest Resources Mentioned   Education Offerings – AWT  Become Certified – AWT   I Said This, You Heard That 2nd Edition by Kathleen Edelman    Scaling UP! H2O Resources Mentioned  AWT (Association of Water Technologies)  AWT Technical Training - Registration  2026 AWT Technical Training Schedule Scaling UP! H2O Academy video courses  Submit a Show Idea  The Rising Tide Mastermind    Words of Water with James McDonald  Today's definition is a measure of the volume or mass of a fluid (liquid or gas) that passes through a certain point or cross-section over a unit of time.  Can you guess the word or phrase?    2026 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 say something over and over often and enough, it becomes true because perception is reality."  Paul O'Callaghan has built a career at the intersection of water science, wastewater realities, and the practical question every operator and executive eventually faces; what actually moves innovation from idea to adoption.  As Founder and CEO of BlueTech Research, Paul explains how his team helps decision-makers put capital to work more efficiently in water by reducing uncertainty and separating signal from noise. He describes patterns he's watched repeat across water entrepreneurs, pilots, and product market fit, and why "innovation" often breaks down simply because utilities, investors, and founders are using the same word to mean different things.    Capital, fit, and the language gap Paul unpacks what it takes to align an investor's expectations with a technology's true pathway to scale. He contrasts different "types" of innovation and why matching the right investor, entrepreneur, market, and timeline matters as much as the technology itself. The conversation also highlights why solving a problem someone has today is often a safer starting point than betting everything on a problem that might arrive tomorrow.  Regulations as a driver and a risk  Regulation matters in water and wastewater, but Paul cautions against building an entire business on the hope that rules will create a market on schedule. He walks through timing risk, enforcement uncertainty, and why tracking policy momentum matters as much as tracking the text of the regulation itself. He also notes a shift toward more "aspirational" regulation focused on reuse, regeneration, and systems-level outcomes.  Storytelling that changes adoption  From Brave Blue World to Our Blue World, Paul shares what he learned about making water personal and compelling without reducing it to doom-and-gloom narratives. The stories he tells connect to a core professional challenge: technologies enable outcomes, but adoption accelerates when people can see and want the "better" future those outcomes create.  Listen to the full conversation above. Explore related episodes below. Stay engaged, keep learning, and continue scaling up your knowledge!    Timestamps    02:33 - Trace's message on finding "your next love" through learning  09:25 - Words of Water with James McDonald  11:25 - AWT connection and the importance of being challenged by community  13:06 - Industrial Water Week dates for "this year" (Oct 5–9)  14:02 - Upcoming Events for Water Treatment Professionals   19:15 - Interview with Founder & CEO of BlueTech Research, author of The Dynamics of Water Innovation, Executive Producer of Brave Blue World and Our Blue World  22:20 - Pivot moment into water as a career (Malaysia, Edinburgh course, "living machines")  25:15 - What BlueTech Research does (reducing uncertainty, helping capital work efficiently)  27:50 - How startups connect with BlueTech and why storytelling matters  30:09 - Matching investors, entrepreneurs, and markets (alignment and "different languages")  33:00 - The role of regulations (timing risk and market realities)  35:15 - How BlueTech keeps up (themes, emerging areas, and using AI for tracking legislation)  36:30 - Paul's book: The Dynamics of Water Innovation (why he wrote it and who it's for)  40:49 - Documentary storytelling origin and Discovery Channel experience  44:22 - How celebrities got involved and why the outreach worked  45:30 - Why they made a second film and the goal of making water personal  48:03 - Viewer feedback, education impact, and grassroots screening stories  50:08 - "Water 2050" video game inspired by the films  51:21 - Additional ripple effects and "halo" projects (curriculum, photography competition, water walks)  53:06 - Where water innovation is going (desirability, storytelling, and "leaving water")  56:07- Advice for people with ideas (talk to people, generosity of the sector, ikigai, long-term view)  58:08 - Ostara / Crystal Green story (finding the operator's "today problem")  59:54 - One point Paul wants to leave: "It's a journey, enjoy it."    Quotes "We do our best to help people put capital to work more efficiently to solve water challenges."  "Try and find a problem that someone has today, ideally."    Connect with Paul O'Callaghan Email: paul.ocallaghan@bluetechresearch.com   Website: BlueTech Research – Actionable Water Technology Market Intelligence   braveblueworldstudios | Instagram | Linktree   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/o2environmental/     Guest Resources Mentioned   The Dynamics of Water Innovation: A Guide to Water Technology Commercialization by Lakshmi M. Adapa (Author), Paul O'Callaghan (Author), Cees Buisman (Author)   Watch Brave Blue World: Racing to Solve Our Water Crisis | Netflix   Braveblueworldstudios | Instagram | Linktree   "Dynamics of water innovation: Insights into the rate of adoption, diffusion and success of emerging water technologies globally" – Wageningen University & Research  "Wastewater Technology Fact Sheet: The Living Machine" – U.S. EPA  "Brave Blue World" film – Science on Screen synopsis  "Our Blue World: A Water Odyssey" – IMDb overview  "Water Reuse for Industrial Applications Resources" – U.S. EPA  "ANSI/AAMI ST108:2023—Water for the Processing of Medical Devices" – ANSI Blog   "Key EPA Actions to Address PFAS" – U.S. EPA  "The Philosophy of Ikigai: 3 Examples About Finding Purpose" – PositivePsychology.com   Fluke: Chance, Chaos, and Why Everything We Do Matters Paperback by Brian Klaas   Rivers of Power: How a Natural Force Raised Kingdoms, Destroyed Civilizations, and Shapes Our World Paperback by Laurence C. Smith    Scaling UP! H2O Resources Mentioned  AWT (Association of Water Technologies)  Scaling UP! H2O Academy video courses  Submit a Show Idea  The Rising Tide Mastermind 415 Green Building Updates: What You Need to Know  004 It's Not Easy Being Green!  032.5 The One That Takes You to AWT's 2018 Technical Training]  022 The One with Tim Fulton  280 The One About Retaining Top Talent  368 Adapting to the New Workforce: Attracting Top Talent 413 Charting the Future: Mastering the Art of Strategic Planning    Words of Water with James McDonald  Today's definition is a single, reactive molecule, usually an organic compound, having the ability to join with a number of similarly defined molecules to form a polymer.    2026 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. 

Industrial water work rewards people who can move between precision and practicality. Katie Holliday brings both. She started as a lab chemist, then transitioned into field service with Apex Water and Process, where much of her work supports healthcare facilities and high-accountability programs.   Lab habits that protect your tools and your data  Katie describes the first surprise of field work: a central plant is "very dirty," and the job demands good technique without chasing lab-level perfection. She shares a couple of simple practices that prevent expensive problems. Use proper lab wipes on glassware instead of shirts or paper towels, which can scratch surfaces and compromise readings. Keep pH probes wet with the correct storage solution, because once they dry out, they often stop working.     Healthcare water: SPD work and Legionella prevention  About 90% of Katie's accounts are healthcare. She defines SPD as the sterile processing department and explains why expectations shift compared to boilers and cooling towers. SPD work is cleaner, more controlled, and typically includes additional components such as endotoxin filtration and UV. It also involves more testing and stricter standards that tie directly to patient safety. Alongside SPD, she emphasizes Legionella prevention as a constant priority, from cooling towers (including secondary disinfection) to domestic water, because facilities want to reduce risk to patients.    Water chemistry reality check: Phoenix versus "everywhere else"  Katie explains how Arizona water changes the operating window. She notes high hardness and high chlorides, which can limit cycles of concentration and force conservative targets compared with places like Atlanta, where Trace describes running much higher cycles. The takeaway for experienced pros is familiar: operating limits are local, and "what good looks like" depends on the incoming water and the constraints that matter most at that site.    Mentorship, representation, and field readiness systems  Katie shares what it meant to be the first woman account manager hire in a long-running operation, and her advice is practical: recruit intentionally, then train people in the field, not from the sidelines. She credits her mentor, Bernie Peacock, for accelerating her learning curve, and she now passes that on by responding fast, following through, and providing steady backup to newer teammates. She also describes how she built mechanical confidence, using manuals, YouTube, phone video, and a OneNote playbook that captures account contacts, access details, sampling points, and "where things are" notes for clean coverage when someone else is on-site.   Listen to the full conversation above. Explore related episodes below. Stay engaged, keep learning, and continue scaling up your knowledge!    Timestamps  02:14 - Trace Blackmore shares "first day" intimidation and learning curve in water treatment  08:55 - Words of Water with James McDonald  12:30 - Upcoming Events for Water Treatment Professionals   14:48 - Interview begins: Katie Holliday introduced (Apex Water and Process)   15:55 – Lab to Field transition and technique  20:27 – Representation and Mentorship  26:42 – Culture and Water Stewardship   33:31 – Healthcare work, SPD, and Legionella   35:56 – Mentoring and "give it back"  39:22 – Mechanical Confidence, Tools, and Documentation Systems     Quotes and Key Takeaways "What do I not know that I don't know?"  "Everyone needs a Bernie Peacock" "Field accuracy doesn't require lab perfection, but it does require clean technique." "The most effective mentoring is responsive and practical."  "Documentation scales your value"    Connect with Katie Holliday Email: k.nativeamericanbeadwork@gmail.com   Website https://teamapex.com/   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katie-holliday-9b6977246/   https://www.linkedin.com/company/apex-water-process/     Guest Resources Mentioned   The Perfect Marriage by Jeneva Rose Under the Bridge by Rebecca Godfrey   AAMI ST108 Compliance in Sterile Processing  High hardness in Phoenix  ASSE 12080 Legionella Water Safety certification  Navajo Nation water access    Scaling UP! H2O Resources Mentioned  AWT (Association of Water Technologies)  Scaling UP! H2O Academy video courses  Submit a Show Idea   The Rising Tide Mastermind Fearless Pricing: Ignite Your Team, Own Your Value, and Command What You Deserve by Casey Brown     Words of Water with James McDonald  Today's definition is the upward flow of water through a resin bed to clean, expand, and reclassify the bed.  Can you guess the word?    2026 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 rarely announces itself as a "big water problem." It shows up as leaching at the tap, residual loss in the field, premature equipment replacement, and the slow, expensive erosion of decision-quality.  Pat Rosenstiel (CEO) and Wolf Merker (chemist/Chief Science Officer) of Great Water Tech lay out a system-wide view of corrosion control—starting with what changed in Flint from a technical standpoint and moving into why many utilities still struggle to meet expectations when standards and risk assumptions shift.  System-wide corrosion control starts with chemistry and consequences  A source-water change can shift corrosivity fast. If corrosion control does not adjust proactively, the downstream effects show in metal release and public exposure. Wolf stresses the distinction between the technical problem and the political challenges, then points to corrosion control as a solvable technical matter when it is treated as a system condition—not a single asset issue.  Why "phosphate-only" isn't the end of the story  Trace frames what most operators recognize: many municipalities use phosphate inhibitors to form a tenacious film and reduce corrosion. Wolf argues phosphates are "a little bit of old news" in practice and explains the approach Great Water Tech discusses with their German partners—using phosphates and silicates together in the right amounts to create a tighter separation between water and metal.  Barriers, biology, and the disinfection tradeoff  Wolf breaks corrosion drivers into three sources: chemical, biological, and electrochemical (dissimilar metal corrosion). He also ties corrosion to cascading operational decisions—especially disinfectant strategy. If residual loss pushes a system from chlorine to chloramine, Wolf warns that corrosivity can increase dramatically, and that corrosion can amplify the formation of disinfection byproducts as chlorine reacts with what is in the water.  What industrial water treaters should listen for  Pat connects the same barrier logic to industrial priorities—CapEx, OpEx, and lifecycle extension in closed systems (cooling towers, closed chilled loops, boilers). Wolf clarifies that closed systems require different product "flavors," while keeping the core concept consistent: the combined silicate/phosphate approach remains the best path he is aware of.  Listen to the full conversation above. Explore related episodes below. Stay engaged, keep learning, and continue scaling up your knowledge!    Timestamps    02:20 - Trace sets the tone for the episode: decision-quality improves when you "rethink the way that you think you know things," especially around tests and procedures   08:20 - Words of Water with James McDonald  11:00 - Upcoming Events for Water Treatment Professionals   18:22 - Interview with Pat Rosenstiel, CEO of Great Water Tech & Wolf Merker, Chief Science Officer of Great Water Tech  23:00 - Flint technical breakdown  27:30 - Corrosion control options  32:20 - Scale vs. Corrosion   43:40 – Algae Control Pivot    Connect with Pat Rosenstiel  Website: Great Water Tech | Water Treatment Solutions  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pat-rosenstiel-a148952/   Great Water Tech LLC: Overview | LinkedIn     Connect with Wolf Merker  Website: Great Water Tech | Water Treatment Solutions  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wolf-merker-a1b95284/    Great Water Tech LLC: Overview | LinkedIn    Guest Resources Mentioned   NSF/ANSI/CAN 60 — Drinking Water Treatment Chemicals: Health Effect   NSF — Drinking Water Treatment Chemicals Certification (NSF/ANSI/CAN 60) (how certification works)   ANSI Webstore listing (official standard access/purchase)  EPA — Lead and Copper Rule (regulation hub)  EPA — Lead and Copper Rule Improvements (LCRI) (final rule page)  EPA fact sheet — Tap Monitoring Requirements (LCRI) (sampling protocol changes)  Great Water Tech  Folmar (Great Water Tech) — corrosion inhibitor (phosphate + silicate blend)  Algae Armor (Great Water Tech) — nutrient-binding tool for ponds/lakes  EPA Distribution System Toolbox — Pigging fact sheet (PDF) (removing biofilm/scale/sediment from mains)  U.S. Bureau of Reclamation report page (chlorine vs chloramine impacts incl. corrosion/leaching discussion)  AWWA Opflow article (main cleaning techniques incl. pigging): AWWA's utility-facing perspective on cleaning options  Silicate corrosion inhibitors  Historical context for silicate–phosphate combinations    Scaling UP! H2O Resources Mentioned  AWT (Association of Water Technologies)   AWT Technical Training (March 2026)  Scaling UP! H2O Academy video courses  Submit a Show Idea  The Rising Tide Mastermind  Ep 422 Inside the Association of Water Technologies with John Caloritis Hach Water Analysis Handbook      Words of Water with James McDonald Today's definition is the smallest functional unit of a cooling tower that contains its own heat exchange section, fan or air-moving system, water distribution system, and drift eliminators.    2026 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 South Florida ahead of the Pegasus World Cup - is joined by award winning Racing Post writer Jonathan Harding, who reports from the UK ahead of Cheltenham Trials Day. We hear from a confident Jimmy Mangan about the chances of Spillane's Tower in this weekend's Cotswold Chase, while French agent Bertrand le Metayer details the long road back to the racecourse for Cleeve Hurdle entry Theleme, plus Dan Barber looks at trainers in form through the Timeform lens. In Florida, Nick catches up at some length with colourful and charismatic owner Michael Iavarone, whose quest to finally have a winner on Pegasus Day sees him with eleven runners on the card. Meanwhile, Ellerslie Park Executive GM Craig Baker has news of this weekend's big fixture in New Zealand, the Karaka Millions, while James McDonald pays his own tribute to the retiring Via Sistina, and offers justification for the decision to race Romantic Warrior exclusively in Hong Kong this year.

James McDonald, CEO of Kootenay Silver (OTCQX: KOOYF | TSXV: KTN) thinks we are still the early stages of a massive bull run for silver, and as a myriad of catalysts continue to drive the price higher, silver mining stocks are setup to potentially outperform everything. James dives into how Kootenay Silver fits into the picture, with four silver deposits, comprising one of the biggest silver assets in Mexico for a junior company.Kootenay Silver Website: https://kootenaysilver.comFollow Kootenay Silver on X: https://x.com/KootenaySilverDisclaimer: Commodity Culture was compensated by Kootenay Silver for producing this interview. Jesse Day is not a shareholder of Kootenay Silver. Nothing contained in this video is to be construed as investment advice, do your own due diligence.Follow Jesse Day on X: https://x.com/jessebdayCommodity Culture on Youtube: https://youtube.com/c/CommodityCulture

Industrial water professionals are increasingly pulled into conversations about scarcity, resilience, and "where the next gallon comes from."  Dr. Veronika Zhiteneva, CEO and Co-founder of Waterloop Solutions frames water reuse as an implementation challenge more than a technology gap—and explains where the practical starting points are when the scope feels overwhelming.   Moving reuse forward when the technology already exists  Waterloop Solutions was founded to accelerate implementation: clarifying end-use quality, identifying post-treatment needs on the back end of existing plants, and building risk management plans that fit real operational and regulatory expectations. The conversation stays grounded in what slows projects down (time, permitting, funding, and public acceptance) and where progress can be made without reinventing the toolbox.  Centralized vs. decentralized: why "less regulated" can move faster  Europe's agricultural reuse regulation (noted as coming into effect in June 2023) created shared minimum requirements, but also uncertainty around permitting and responsibility at the local level. In contrast, decentralized reuse is described as an "early adopter" space—often driven by innovative building projects (gray water separation, rooftop rain capture) and, in some cases, easier implementation from scratch than retrofits.  What matters to industrial listeners: partnerships, autonomy, and distance  For industrial teams, Dr. Veronika points out opportunities for synergistic partnerships with municipalities and agriculture—balanced against the realities of infrastructure distance and cost. She also makes the case for industrial autonomy: decoupling from conventional sources through internal reuse to protect future production when municipal needs take precedence.  Communication and the "toilet to tap" problem  Public perception remains a stubborn barrier. Dr. Veronika calls out the long-lasting impact of "toilet to tap" framing and why first impressions can derail technically sound reuse projects.  Listen to the full conversation above. Explore related episodes below. Stay engaged, keep learning, and continue scaling up your knowledge!    Timestamps  03:58 - Trace Blackmore shares how "Pinks and Blues" questions get chosen—and where listeners can submit them  05:05 - Upcoming Events for Water Treatment Professionals   07:42 – Words of Water with James McDonald  11:47 – Meet Dr. Veronika Zhiteneva and why Trace invited her from LinkedIn insights  12:20 — Veronika's path: UMD → Colorado School of Mines → PhD at Technical University of Munich 15:40 — Why Waterloop Solutions started: progress is slow, but implementation support is missing  19:40 — Decentralized reuse: why interest is rising, and why it can be easier to implement in buildings  20:20 — EU agricultural reuse regulation (June 2023): minimum quality, crop types, and risk plan uncertainty  23:40 — Unique barriers by sector: municipal timelines, industrial ROI, and the difficulty of reaching farmers  33:20 — Lowest-hanging fruit: municipal reuse for street cleaning and parks; industrial autonomy via internal reuse  45:00 — Women and young professionals: visibility, role models, and why the sector's willingness to help matters  47:20 — Where to learn more: US EPA resources, EU work underway, and Australia as a reuse leader    Quotes "It's okay to ask questions."  "But actually, all the technology needed for it already exists."  "What I think is awesome in the US, for example, that you guys are really pursuing this direct potable reuse now."  "I think these are all valid options to have kind of in the water management portfolio on a local level and also on a regional level."    Connect with Dr. Veronika Zhiteneva Email: vzhiteneva@gowaterloop.com   Website: Home – Waterloop Solutions  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vzhiteneva/    Waterloop Solutions: Overview | LinkedIn    Guest Resources Mentioned   Brave New World by Aldous Huxley (Paperback)     European Commission's Water reuse: New EU rules to improve access to safe irrigation  Intermezzo Paperback – by Sally Rooney (Author)   Radical Candor: Fully Revised & Updated Edition: Be a Kick-Ass Boss Without Losing Your Humanity by Kim Scott   US EPA State Water Reuse Resources  US EPA Water Reuse Information Library  US EPA's "A Framework for Permitting Innovation in the Wastewater Sector Report"  US Department of Energy's About the BuildingsNEXT Student Design Competition  The Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD)    Water Reuse Europe Policy and Regulations    Scaling UP! H2O Resources Mentioned  AWT (Association of Water Technologies)   AWT Technical Training Seminars   Scaling UP! H2O Academy video courses   Submit a Show Idea   The Rising Tide Mastermind    Words of Water with James McDonald  Today's definition is a device for removing condensate from a steam line without allowing the steam to escape.  Can you guess the word or phrase?       2026 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.     

"Stay curious. And you only have one reputation. Guard it with your life." Hiring for judgment, not just rehearsed confidence   Industrial water treatment is full of decisions made with incomplete data—on sites, with customers, and inside the business. JD Roth (Managing Director and Co-owner of Guardian Chemicals) builds his hiring around that reality. His aim is straightforward: protect the team and the culture by selecting people who can think, collaborate, and lead under pressure. JD frames the organization as a group of people choosing to work toward a common goal: building a better future for communities, the environment, and staff. That priority shows how Guardian hires, who they keep, and what becomes a deal-breaker. If a candidate is misaligned with core values, JD is clear: performance elsewhere won't override that mismatch. The "Hiring Olympics" structure For a high-bandwidth, project-based role (their Graduate Business Analyst program), Guardian needed a way to evaluate many strong candidates without consuming 40–50 hours of team time. The result is a four-hour, multi-station day that includes: Core values interviews (two-person format) Competency interviews (horsepower and capability) An individual case study (primarily math/business-oriented) A collaborative case study (decision-making and team dynamics) The collaborative case study is the centerpiece. Candidates work with peers who are also competitors for limited roles, using real cases built around business decisions—often with imperfect or incomplete information—so the team can observe how candidates break down problems, delegate, support others, and present recommendations. How decisions get made afterward After candidates leave, the interview team convenes for a group decision. JD starts by looking for any "vetoes," especially around core values to fit (he references an EOS-style standard of meeting 5 out of 6 core values most of the time). From there, the team compares notes across competency, core values, and observed collaboration behaviors. Stay engaged, keep learning, and continue scaling up your knowledge!    Timestamps    02:20 – Trace Blackmore shares part of a real-world service routine and ongoing professional improvement  05:35 – Upcoming Events for Water Treatment Professionals   12:00 – Words of Water with James McDonald  13:52 – Fun Fact about 1903 from this day  14:28 – Interview with JD Roth, Managing Director and Co-Owner of Guardian Chemicals  15:20 - "A company is people"   19:00 – First solo site lesson: ask for help vs. pretend  25:10 – The GBA Program (Graduate Business Analyst)   27:50 – Hiring Olympics format + Efficiency  33:30 – "Ping pong balls in a jumbo jet" example  39:10 – Selection rules: Core values veto + EOS bar + Values list    Quotes  JD:"And if you've got great people and you take care of great people, they take care of your customers, and your customers take care of you."  JD: "There really isn't a company. There is just a whole bunch of people who have decided to work together towards a common goal."   Trace: "I can only imagine how empowered your team feels because they're so involved in this process and you're involving everybody"   Trace: "I love the fact that we're diving deeper into the most important thing, and that's protecting and enhancing our culture."    Connect with JD Roth Email: jdroth@guardianchem.ca  Website: http://www.guardianchem.ca/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-david-jd-roth-58714113/     Guest Resources Mentioned   Entrepreneurs' Organization   Verne Harnish 'Scaling Up'   About Verne Harnish   Harvard Business Review Case Studies    Scaling UP! H2O Resources Mentioned  AWT (Association of Water Technologies)  AWT Technical Training Seminars  Scaling UP! H2O Academy video courses  Submit a Show Idea  The Rising Tide Mastermind  7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen. R. Covey  Fearless Pricing: Ignite Your Team, Own Your Value, and Command What You Deserve by Casey Brown   Supercommunicators: How to Unlock the Secret Language of Connection by Charles Duhigg   Charles Duhigg — "The science behind dramatically better conversations" (TEDxManchester)   12 Week Year Plan   457 2026: A New Year with New Intentions  Traction: Get a Grip on Your Business    Words of Water with James McDonald  Today's definition is an ion with a net positive charge, formed when an atom or molecule loses one or more electrons.  Can you guess the word or phrase?    2026 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 ad spend forecasts show that the ad market has become detached from the broader economy. WPP Media's Kate Scott-Dawkins and WARC's James McDonald join Alex Brownsell to discuss trends in the 2026 ad economy, including the growing influence of AI and a bumper year in North America with elections and the FIFA World Cup.

 "So one thing I never do is try to start giving remediation or advice before I truly have understood and diagnosed the problem."  Mentorship and certifications don't replace experience—but they can accelerate it when paired with the right mindset and a disciplined approach to learning. Nella Fergusson, CWT (District Manager, Southern California, Garratt-Callahan), lays out what "growing up" in industrial water treatment actually looks like: repeated exposure to real problems, strong diagnostic habits, and a willingness to keep learning long after year one.  Learning that keeps you employable  Water treatment evolves. Nella contrasts today's challenges with what she faced 15 years ago and explains why complacency is the fastest path to getting left behind. She describes water treatment as industry-specific by nature—food processing cooling and commercial real estate operations don't behave the same, don't shut down the same way, and can't be serviced the same way.  Diagnosing before prescribing  Her troubleshooting process starts with questions: the system's history, what changed, when symptoms appeared, and how critical the impacted use is. She emphasizes water sampling across different times of day and refuses to offer remediation before a proper diagnosis—because misdiagnosis creates extra problems instead of solving the original one.  Career decisions, culture, and the 80/20 risk  Nella shares a candid career detour: leaving Garratt-Callahan for GE Water/Suez, then realizing quickly what she lost—support, resources, and "family"—before returning. She frames many job moves through an 80/20 lens: chasing a missing 20% can cost the 80% that already works, especially when recruiters' incentives don't align with yours.  Credentials that signal competence—and protect end users  Nella explains why she pursued the CWT: an industry-agreed benchmark that reflects years of varied problem-solving. She also discusses ASSE 12080 recertification and why correct sampling, shipping, labeling, and interpretation matter—particularly in Legionella and water safety work. Customers may fear testing; she argues the goal is to find risk where maintenance is weak, then build site-specific procedures that facilities can actually sustain with their staffing. Stay engaged, keep learning, and continue scaling up your knowledge!    Timestamps    02:22 - Trace message: CWT prep course + planning for 2026  09:17 - Water You Know with James McDonald  10:48 - Upcoming Events for Water Treatment Professionals   14:49 - Interview with Nella Fergusson, CWT, (District Manager, Southern California, Garratt-Callahan)  16: 27- Ongoing education + how the industry has changed  21:06 - Nella's troubleshooting approach: history, what changed, sampling, impact, don't prescribe before diagnosing  31:00 - Nella's 80/20 rule for deciding whether to leave a company  34:22 - Why she pursued CWT + value of certifications in the industry  40:15 - Getting results immediately + confidence while testing Connect with Nella Fergusson Email: nfergusson@g-c.com  Website: http://www.garrattcallahan.com/   LinkedIn: Nella Fergusson, CWT | LinkedIn     Guest Resources Mentioned   ASSE 12080 Certification – ASSE International  Why ASSE Certifications Matter – Garratt‑Callahan  Impact of Cooling Tower Downtime in Food & Beverage Operations – Aggreko  Scheduling Off‑Peak HVAC Maintenance – Facility Response Group  Parenting the Strong-Willed Child: The Clinically Proven Five-Week Program for Parents of Two- to Six-Year-Olds, Third Edition    Scaling UP! H2O Resources Mentioned  AWT (Association of Water Technologies)  AWT - Value of Certification Scaling UP! H2O Academy video courses  Submit a Show Idea  The Rising Tide Mastermind   Water You Know with James McDonald  Question: What is the piece of equipment called that is a heat exchanger placed in the gas passage between the boiler and the stack designed to recover exhaust gas heat into the boiler feedwater?    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 research out of New York shows that naloxone didn't just save more than 6,500 lives in two years—it delivered one of the most dramatic returns on investment in public health. In this episode, Dr. James McDonald, ASTHO member and commissioner of the New York State Department of Health, breaks down the first statewide health-economic evaluation of naloxone administration. Dr. McDonald discusses how New York's extensive overdose prevention programs provided the data needed to measure outcomes, why the study went beyond distribution counts to assess real-world effectiveness, and how the results—more than $3,200 saved for every $1 spent—can help other states make the case for investing in harm reduction. The conversation also explores lessons for policymakers, the essential role of training bystanders, and why naloxone remains the cornerstone of a comprehensive response to the opioid crisis. A clear, data-driven look at how one tool is saving lives—and why scaling it matters now more than ever.The Key Role of Cross-Sector Partnerships in Navigating Barriers | ASTHOWebinar Registration - Zoom

 Entamoeba histolytica nearly ended Ron Blutrich's scientific career. Instead, it pushed him to rethink how we protect people in multi-family buildings, senior facilities, and dense urban centers from invisible microbiological risks in their drinking water. In this episode, he joins host Trace Blackmore to unpack what whole-building UV can (and can't) do for Legionella, biofilm, and real-world water safety.  When One Bad Cup of Water Redefines a Career  In the middle of his PhD in molecular genetics, Ron drank from an under-sink reverse osmosis tap at an Airbnb and contracted Entamoeba histolytica. The infection triggered more than three years of severe gastrointestinal symptoms and a 100-pound weight loss, despite being "clinically cured." That experience—and the lack of clear answers—led him to dig into how governments, utilities, and buildings actually manage microbiological risk in water. He discovered that even in urban centers, there is "a lot left to be desired" in monitoring, guidelines, and the epidemiology of waterborne disease.  UV at the Point of Entry: Why Medium Pressure Matters  Ron explains why he chose UV as the primary disinfection tool for CLEAR's whole-building solutions. He contrasts conventional filters (carbon, RO, media) that remove contaminants but do not kill biology with UV systems that directly target DNA and other cellular structures. He walks through the differences between low-pressure and medium-pressure UV, including temperature independence for hot water recirculation and the broader wavelength spectrum that can damage DNA, proteins, membranes, and even DNA repair enzymes. That same technology is being used for multicellular control in marine environments, ballast water, and mollusk control, and Ron argues it is uniquely suited to domestic hot water systems facing Legionella and biofilm.  Legionella, Biofilm, and the Limits of "Good Enough"  Drawing from CLEAR's field work, Ron describes how often Legionella shows up in single homes, condos, and new buildings, and how standard practices typically focus on remediation and short-term clearance instead of long-term prevention. He highlights the gap between ASHRAE 188's recommendations for hot water temperatures and real constraints in senior housing, where anti-scalding concerns keep tanks too cool to reliably control Legionella. He also shares stories of property managers and public agencies reluctant to test because they lack cost-effective treatment options or don't want to confront what the data might show.  Scaling UV from Towers to Single Homes  Ron walks through why conventional media and RO systems don't scale well to large towers—footprint, cost, and pressure loss—and how CLEAR instead installs inline UV systems at the point of entry. These systems can handle up to roughly 2,000 gallons per minute, require minimal head loss, and are designed as a single point of installation and service. From there, he explains how his team layered on monitoring and a tenant-facing dashboard so that properties can see UV dose, transmittance, and flow in real time, and service can be triggered based on performance instead of fixed schedules. He also discusses emerging opportunities in UV LEDs and next-generation media that could make fully comprehensive point-of-entry treatment feasible in more buildings.  For leaders responsible for building portfolios, senior living, or high-density residential properties, this conversation offers a rigorous look at what it really takes to move from "we hope the water is fine" to a defensible, data-backed stance on microbiological safety.  Stay engaged, keep learning, and continue scaling up your knowledge!    Timestamps  04:59 - Trace talks about skipping turkey and ham this year and explains his usual turkey-stock "ice cube" tradition  13:59 - Trace introduces today's lab partner, Ron Blutrich of Clear Inc., and sets up the UV-in-buildings topic  13:03 – Events page shout out   10:57 - Water You Know with James McDonald  16:21 – Drinking from an under-sink RO line at an Airbnb, contracting Entamoeba Histolytica  19:15 - Why unmaintained RO and carbon filters can increase microbiological risk  23:27 - UV to keep post-UV systems cleaner   34:51 – Installation  40:23 – Cyanotoxins, Great Lakes algal blooms, and using medium-pressure UV to denature toxins, not just microbes  43:31 – Ron's current habits  48:08 – Future Opportunities: UV LEDs   49:04 – Multi-spectral UV LED arrays    Quotes "And what I learned really changed my life, because what I understood is that even in urban settings, not just in remote communities, there's a lot left to be desired when it comes to water quality, water quality treatment, guidelines, monitoring" - Ron Blutrich  "I think that in general, we need to understand with our eyes open exactly what it is that we do when we treat." - Ron Blutrich  "So generally, there's a lot left to be desired in terms of what we're trying to do for Legionella. It turns out that Legionella is extremely susceptible to UV. Legionella can be reduced almost 6 logs with most conventional UV systems" - Ron Blutrich  "So, at this point, our UV systems, it's an inline system. It's basically a section of pipe that happens to disinfect the water going through it. It's a single point of installation, a single point of service. There's no head loss, there's no pressure loss" - Ron Blutrich    Connect with Ron Blutrich Email: ron@clear.inc  Website: Clear - UV Treated Purified Water at Point of Entry  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ron-blutrich-50262b2a3/     Guest Resources Mentioned  ORIGINS OF ORDER: Self-Organization and Selection in Evolution by Stuart Kauffman  Pale Blue Dot: A Vision of the Human Future in Space by Carl Sagan  Clear Inc – Whole-Building UV Water Purification  Entamoeba histolytica Infection  CDC Household Water Treatment   EPA Guidance Manual: Filtration and Disinfection Requirements  WQA Guidance for Sanitizing Residential Treatment Systems  Application of Ultraviolet Light-Emitting Diodes (UV-LED) to Full-Scale Drinking-Water Disinfection  Wilderness Medical Society Clinical Practice Guidelines on Water Treatment for Wilderness, International Travel, and Austere Situations    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 Question: What is the interaction called when chemicals react on a mole-to-mole basis that could possibly be considered the opposite of the Threshold Effect?    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 Mirror man David Yates for today's edition of the popular racing podcast. Guests today include Coral Gold Cup hopefuls Lucinda Russell and Paul Nicholls, while Timeform's Dan Barber stands firm behind the decision not to raise Gaelic Warrior above Fact to File. Plus, James McDonald joins the show to discuss his beloved Romantic Warrior, while Vicky Leonard gives the latest on worrying developments in the battle for the Australian Pattern.

What happens when you build a company around one niche, listen obsessively to customers, and never stop improving? In this episode, host Trace Blackmore finally sits down for a full-length conversation with Frank Lecrone, Founder, President, and CEO of AquaPhoenix Scientific. What started in a small 60' x 60' space in Hanover, Pennsylvania, with three employees, maxed-out credit cards, and endless Staples runs has grown into a 300+-person organization serving industrial water professionals around the world.   Frank shares how AquaPhoenix became "the booth everyone wants to be next to" at AWT, why they built their entire business around industrial water treatment instead of trying to be everything to everyone, and how a simple continuous improvement system now generates hundreds of ideas a year from frontline team members. He also pulls back the curtain on acquisitions and private equity, explaining EBITDA in plain language, how to think about "add-backs," and what owners should understand long before they think about selling. Whether you're leading a growing company, running a route, or thinking about your own "second chapter," this conversation is a masterclass in culture, courage, and caring deeply about the people you serve. Stay engaged, keep learning, and continue scaling up your knowledge!    Timestamps   02:20 - Trace Blackmore shares a recap from the recent 2025 AWT Conference, The Hang, and a Blood Donation Story   14:02 - Water You Know with James McDonald  15:20 - Upcoming Conference for Water Professionals  18:16 – Introduction of Frank Lecrone, CEO of AquaPhoenix Scientific (eight years in the making)  24:52 – Why Hanover?   26:59 – Supporting AWT  37:38 – Color-coded caps & QR Codes  42:30 – Learning from mistakes  45:31 – Core Values   48:26 – Acquisitions and Culture   1:03:32 – Valuations and EBITDA    Quotes  "We didn't grow by doing everything for everyone. We grew by doing exactly what one market needed and wanted—and then doing it better every year."  "The lack of information is almost always interpreted negatively. That's why you have to over-communicate, especially during acquisitions."  "EBITDA equals freedom. The more EBITDA you have, the less anybody can tell you what to do with your own company."  "We're not perfect. We screw things up like everyone else—but we fix it, and we fix it quickly, and we make doing business with us as easy as possible."  "I don't want to be the smartest person in the room. I want great people around me, giving ideas and pushing things forward, so I'm not the bottleneck."  "Business is like standing in a bathtub while the water rises. It feels fine until it reaches your mouth. The trick is noticing when it's at your knees and fixing the bottleneck then."  "We give a darn. We have 'GAS'—Give a #$%@—and if we can make it right and do it better, we absolutely will."    Connect with Frank Lecrone Email: frank@aquaphoenixsci.com   Website: Water Quality Testing Products | AquaPhoenix Scientific  LinkedIn:  Frank Lecrone | LinkedIn       Guest Resources Mentioned   AquaPhoenix Scientific   Aliquot – AquaPhoenix's Water Management Software  QR-coded Custom Test Kits (AquaPhoenix EndPoint® ID)    Scaling UP! H2O Resources Mentioned  AWT (Association of Water Technologies)  Scaling UP! H2O Academy video courses  Submit a Show Idea  The Rising Tide Mastermind  American Red Cross    Water You Know with James McDonald  Question: What industrial water treatment word is derived from the Greek word meaning "claw?"    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 More You Know" - Robin Deal A million-gallon-a-day perspective, distilled into actionable steps. Robin Deal, AquaPure Product Manager at Hubbard-Hall unpacks how seasoned pros can squeeze more performance—and less sludge—out of industrial wastewater systems without compromising compliance or plant uptime.    From "clear water in a jar" to stable discharge in the field  Robin details a practical jar-testing workflow: start from upstream processes, target pH using hydroxide/sulfide solubility curves, choose the right coagulant (aluminum, iron, calcium, lanthanum, or organics), and validate against metals/COD/BOD/phosphorus before scaling. The test bench isn't the finish line; it's the feasibility gate when you're treating 150,000+ gpd.  Lean wastewater: cost center or controllable system?  Commodity choices (lime, alum, ferric) can generate 70–85% more sludge than optimized blends—driving hazardous waste hauling, clogging lines, and shortening pump life. Robin reframes the "penny-per-pound" price war into a total-system economics conversation: sludge recyclability, maintenance cycles, and realistic break-even targets.  PFAS: remove now, plan to destroy  For hex-chrome platers and other industrial dischargers, Robin shares near-term and emerging options: carbon filtration for immediate removal, evaporation/condensation where capital exists, and destruction pathways under evaluation—advanced oxidation, electrochemical oxidation, "thermobotic agglomeration," and ball milling—with an eye on evolving limits and cost realities.  One Water thinking for manufacturers  "Water is water." Robin introduces the One Water mindset for plant leaders: tighten internal loops, reduce community draw and discharge impact, and align non-contact, potable, and wastewater under one stewardship model. It's not a club—it's a decision framework that's already influencing global brands and drought-stressed regions.  Treat each round of testing as a hypothesis check, each chemical as a system lever, and each gallon as a shared resource. That's how leaders turn compliance into predictable results. Stay engaged, keep learning, and continue scaling up your knowledge!    Timestamps  16:45 - Trace Blackmore shares insights on current industry events, an upcoming conference, the "magic button" idea for user-friendly wastewater control and announces The Hang to build community engagement 17:50 - Water You Know with James McDonald  23:04 - Interview begins: Robin Deal introduced as AquaPure Product Manager, origin story and family context   28:12 - First Jar Test Story   32:17 - Jar testing Workflow  42:34 - One Water concept  54:12 - Regulations   Quotes  "Just say yes to the job." "Lime is not a lean." "Best available technology does not mean best economic." "So just deep breath, stay calm and do the best that we can do and wait for those regulations to come out because they are coming" "Turn off the water in the polymer tank."    Connect with Robin Deal Email: robin.renee47@yahoo.com  LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/robin-deal    https://www.linkedin.com/company/hubbard-hall-inc./      Guest Resources Mentioned   The Wandering Inn: Book One in The Wandering Inn Series by pirateaba  Water Reuse Organization   American Water Works Association  Water Environment Federation    Scaling UP! H2O Resources Mentioned  AWT (Association of Water Technologies)  Scaling UP! H2O Academy video courses  Submit a Show Idea  The Rising Tide Mastermind Start With Why Simon Sinek TedTalk  The 6 Types of Working Genius: A Better Way to Understand Your Gifts, Your Frustrations, and Your Team by Patrick M. Lencioni  James McDonald's Be Like Water Series  Drop by Drop: Articles on Industrial Water Treatment by James McDonald     Water You Know with James McDonald  Question: What is the device called that is installed on the effluent line of an ion exchange unit to prevent resin from ending up downstream where it doesn't belong?    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.   

Get stuck in – Michael Bourgeois, CWT How do standards get written in ways that working water treaters can actually meet? In this conversation, AWT Past President, current Related Trade Organization (RTO) Committee Chair, and Chemco Products Company Operations Manager, Michael Bourgeois CWT, explains how AWT's liaisons collaborate with peer organizations, so guidance reflects field reality—operations, risk, and achievable compliance.  From Field Bags to Board Rooms: Why RTOs Matter  Bourgeois outlines the purpose of AWT's RTO structure: volunteer liaisons track and influence work at groups whose missions overlap with industrial water—CTI, ABMA, ASHRAE, AWWA, ASHE, and others. The aim is simple and practical: make sure member voices are heard so guidance advances health outcomes (e.g., Legionella control) and day-to-day feasibility for service providers and suppliers.  Turning Reaction into Proaction  Historically, the industry learned about new rules after they landed. Bourgeois details how AWT is shifting to co-authoring cooling-water guidelines with CTI and re-engaging ABMA, so boiler-water limits and methods reflect current technologies and operations. The model: clarify shared goals, contribute content expertise, and formalize collaboration so members get usable documents at member pricing.  Concrete Moves: Boiler Water, Healthcare, and More  Examples include AWT's role on ABMA's Boiler Expo steering committee (with a focused water-treatment training block) and early conversations with ASHE on pathogen control in building and healthcare water systems. He describes how liaisons feed updates into a formal committee cadence, so the AWT Board and members see progress—not just headlines.  When working professionals help write the playbook, outcomes improve clients, operators, and public health—and members stop "reacting" to standards they had no hand in shaping.  Listen to the full conversation above. Explore related episodes below.   Stay engaged, keep learning, and continue scaling up your knowledge!     Timestamps   00:02:28 - Trace Blackmore shares his AWT excitement & community shout-outs  00:05:16 - Water You Know with James McDonald  00:06:44 - The magic of the Scaling Up buttons (why & how to use them)  00:20:25 - North Metal Quarterly Magazine (Grab physical copy by visiting Booth 212)  00:27:00 - Interview starts: Mike Bourgeois (Chemco; AWT Past President; RTO Chair)  00:33:58 - What is the RTO Committee and why it exists  00:36:31 - The 10 formal collaborators + 4–6 informal  00:36:43 - AWWA/ASDWA (Joe Hannigan); Premise plumbing link  00:38:19 - ASHE (healthcare engineering) early wins (Reid Hutchinson)  00:38:47 - ABMA (boilers) momentum (Steve Jobin) + Women of Boilers  00:40:28 - CTI (Mike); CDC (Patsy Root); WEF (Brian Liotta)  00:40:46 - AMPP (formerly NACE) (Jay Farmerie); WQA (Chuck Hamrick)  00:41:19 - ASHRAE (Bill Pearson) & the impact on Std 188  00:45:26 - Principle: Be proactive so standards are achievable for members  00:47:34 - Boiler Expo: half-day on water treatment (economics, pretreatment, failures, regs)  00:50:56 - Where to learn about RTO work  00:54:19 - Volunteers needed: attributes of great liaisons  00:58:48 - Breakthrough: ABMA boiler water guideline refresh (toward ASME alignment)  01:01:02 - Potential collaboration with ASHE on pathogen control guidance  01:01:39 - What Mike's most excited to see at the Broadmoor  01:02:22 - Mike's session: new OSHA walk-around rules  01:02:51 - Theme of the conversation: "Get stuck in" (join committees)    Quotes  "The button is magic—it breaks the ice for you and starts real conversations."  "Talk to every single booth. A year from now, you'll remember exactly who can help."   "RTO stands for Related Trade Organization—our way to shape the standards that shape us."   "Why write a standard no one can achieve? AWT's role is to make it achievable."   "If you want to help AWT, get stuck in. Volunteer. It pays back 10 to 100-fold."   "AWT's RTO liaisons keep members' interests represented before rules and guidelines are finalized—so they're practical and achievable."  "Look for committees aligned with your strengths."    Connect with Michael Bourgeois Email: mbourgeois@chemcoprod.com   Website: Home | Chemco Products Company  LinkedIn: Michael Bourgeois, CWT | LinkedIn  https://www.linkedin.com/company/chemco-products-company/     Guest Resources Mentioned   ABMA's Boiler Water Quality Requirements and Associated Steam Quality for Industrial/Commercial and Institutional Boilers  Atlas Shrugged (Centennial Ed.) Hardcover – April 21, 2005 by Ayn Rand  AWT Committee  AWT Get Involved  Cancer Ward: A Novel (FSG Classics) Paperback – April 14, 2015 by Aleksandr Solzhenitsyn (Author)  Cooling Technology Institute (CTI)  Fossil Future: Why Global Human Flourishing Requires More Oil, Coal, and Natural Gas--Not Less Hardcover – by Alex Epstein   Signature in the Cell: DNA and the Evidence for Intelligent Design Paperback – Illustrated, June 22, 2010 by Stephen C. Meyer  WTG-126: The Use of Non-Oxidizing Biocides in Cooling Water Systems    Scaling UP! H2O Resources Mentioned  380 The WOW Effect: Women Leading Transformation in the Water Industry  447 Unlocking Team Potential with Culture Index with Randi Fargen  ASHE's "Water Management in Health Care Facilities: Complying with ASHRAE Standard 188"  ASPE's Engineering Methodologies to Reduce the Risk of Legionella in Premise Plumbing Systems  ASSE 12080 Training & Certification, Get certified to the ASSE/IAPMO/ANSI 12080 Standard: Professional Qualifications Standard for Legionella Water Safety and Management Personnel  AWT (Association of Water Technologies)   AWT's Legionella 2019: A Position Statement and Guidance Document  North Metal & Chemical Co Quarterly Magazine Issue 3 -page 8 for Trace Blackmore Story  Scaling UP! H2O Academy video courses  Start with Why Simon Sinek - TedTalk  Submit a Show Idea  The 6 Types of Working Genius  The Rising Tide Mastermind    Water You Know with James Questions: What do you call the physical property of matter that is defined as the amount of heat energy required to raise the temperature of a unit mass of a substance by one degree?    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.   

Holidays don't usually line up with release day—but this year they did. In this Halloween special, Trace uses the horror-movie trope of the "scary boiler room" to deliver practical, field-tested reminders for safer sampling, clearer thinking, and better decisions in high-heat, low-light spaces.   Boiler Rooms, Myths, and Real Risks  From Nightmare on Elm Street to Tower of Terror, pop culture loves dim steam, tight corridors, and clangy pipe-labyrinths. Trace contrasts that imagery with what matters to pros: light, ventilation, a stable work surface, and time for observation. He urges listeners to advocate for basics—task lighting, a table, and smarter workflow—so test results are usable, repeatable, and defensible.  Sampling That Won't Scare Your Data  Sampling isn't the job—thinking is. Trace reviews essentials: collect safely (sample coolers when available), fill bottles with no headspace, cool samples to about "hand-holdable" (~100°F) before running tests, and remember temperature and prep sensitivities—especially sulfite tests that use starch. Poor cooling "cooks the potatoes," skewing readings. Tie every test to a hypothesis about system behavior; use results to prove or disprove what you think is happening.  Observation > Automation  Don't just grab a bottle and walk. Log pressures and temperatures (DA/FT), verify blowdown practices (including surface blow and any cooling devices), check the sample cooler, and review boiler logs. Pair disciplined observation with testing so numbers have context.  Stretch Past the "Butterfly Line"  Halloween also prompts a leadership challenge: if you haven't felt "butterflies" lately, are you still stretching? Trace revisits public-speaking growth, previews his AWT presentations (presenting craft, Start With Why, Working Genius, and processes), and encourages pros to reframe nerves as excitement on the way to competence.  Make the boiler room less cinematic and more professional. Better lighting, better setup, and hypothesis-driven testing produce better calls—and better outcomes for customers.  Listen to the full conversation above. Explore related episodes below. Stay engaged, keep learning, and continue scaling up your knowledge!    Timestamps 07:05 - Why Hollywood loves boiler rooms  10:10 — Disney's Tower of Terror queue through a "boiler room" and hidden Mickeys  13:31 – Don't just sample – Observe  15:02 - Safety first: sample coolers when available; protect yourself from burns  35:21 - Water You Know with James McDonald  47:05 – Halloween Throwback    Connect with Scaling UP! H2O  Website:  www.scalinguph2o.com  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/scalinguph2o/  YouTube: Scaling Up! H2O Podcast - YouTube    Scaling UP! H2O Resources Mentioned  AWT (Association of Water Technologies) Annual Convention and Exposition 2025  Scaling UP! H2O Academy video courses  Submit a Show Idea Start with Why Ted Talk  The Rising Tide Mastermind  The Hang Ep 166 The One Where We Celebrate Halloween  Ep 325 Rising Together: Conquering Challenges through Collective Support  Ep 427 July 4th! Entrepreneurship, Water Wells, and the Spirit of Liberty    Water You Know with James McDonald  Question: What is the pressure of a fluid called that's measured relative to "atmospheric" pressure?   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 Jane Mangan to discuss the latest from around the racing world. They ask whether Aidan O'Bri can help surpass his own record of Group One wins in a season with a healthy contribution this weekend. Our Breeders' Cup coverage continues with She's Quality's trainer Jack Davison and with Adam Mills on why the draw is crucial in the Breeders' Cup Turf. James McDonald drops in to tell us why he thinks Via Sistina will be back on point in this weekend's Cox Plate, while Jamie Osborne looks forward to more Dubai Carnival success with a solid string of dirt horses, and Jason Singh previews the horses in training catalogue. Meanwhile, Plumpton Director Thomas Savill tells us about his remarkable charity bike ride in aid of the rare form of cancer that claimed the life his sister Charlotte.

How do you make “right person, right seat” a repeatable system—not a hope?  Fact Water Co's Danielle Scimeca (President) and returning guest Conor Parrish (Chief Growth Officer) share how the Culture Index became a decisive tool for coaching, hiring, and a company-wide restructure. If you lead field service, customer service, or operations in industrial water, this conversation offers practical patterns you can apply the next time a role feels misaligned or a 1:1 stall on surface-level updates. From intuition to instrumentation  Trace opens with the origin story and quickly moves to why Danielle and Conor adopted the Culture Index. Conor outlines the survey's core traits (A, B, C, D), EU (energy units), logic, and ingenuity—and how those readings map to daily work. The team now enters 1:1s with data, not guesswork, and uses pattern shifts (e.g., crossing the bell-curve center line) as objective prompts to discuss burnout risk, disengagement, or role fit. Coaching that respects how people actually work Quarterly surveys provide a shared language for conflict and pace. Danielle and Conor show how “high-D vs. low-D” disagreements de-escalate when both sides name the pattern and adjust the level of detail or speed. The same framework helps leaders spot “quiet quitting” signals (e.g., EU changes) early, address them with empathy, and—when necessary—make seat changes with clarity. Hiring with a C-Job—and holding the line For open roles, they build a “C-job” (ideal pattern) and filter applicants by percentage match before reading résumés. That slows the front end but saves cycles by preventing mis-fit first interviews, reduces turnover, and improves team performance. The hardest lesson? When they ignored the pattern and hired outside the profile, they regretted it. Restructure at scale—faster, with fewer re-hires Armed with data, Fact Water accelerated a difficult restructure (significant field and customer-service turnover) and refilled seats against the right patterns. Outcomes included better alignment, happier team members, and fewer escalations. The same insights even improved communication at home—proof the temperament model applies beyond work. Tools don't lead—leaders do. The Culture Index gave Danielle and Conor the transparency and conviction to act sooner and coach smarter.  Listen to the full conversation above. Stay engaged, keep learning, and continue scaling up your knowledge!    Timestamps  02:24 - Trace Blackmore shares Industrial Water Week recap & #IWW25 highlights   13:37 - Water You Know with James McDonald  14:53 - Upcoming Events for Water Treatment Professionals   21:22 – Interview starts: Danielle Scimeca & Conor Parrish of Fact Water Co  24:46 – Why Culture Index  26:16 - Culture Index Overview   36:11 – Coaching Use: Data-Drive 1:1s and pattern shifts  44:36 – Hiring Use: C-Job Profiles  47:49 – Slower Hiring vs. Lower Turnover: lessons learned  53:46 – Real Example: High- D vs. Low-D communication conflict   Quotes  Conor Parrish: "High level culture index is a tool that we use. It starts with the culture index survey." Danielle Scimeca: “The program forces you to make tough decisions… you deserve to be in a job that you find fulfilling.” Conor Parrish: “HR isn't doing first interviews with 30 people—they're doing first interviews with three to five.” Conor Parrish: “There's so much more to it the more you go… I'm learning something new every day”  Danielle Scimeca: “If you're not ready to make changes, it might not be the right time to do it.”    Connect with Conor Parrish Email: cparrish@factwaterco.com   Website: https://www.factwaterco.com/   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/conor-parrish-cwt-15208251/     Connect with Danielle Scimeca  Email: dscimeca@fctwater.com  Website: https://www.factwaterco.com/   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/danielle-scimeca-esq-519604279/     Guest Resources Mentioned   Randi Fargen (Executive Advisor)  Culture Index Program    Scaling UP! H2O Resources Mentioned  AWT (Association of Water Technologies)  AWT 2025 Convention and Exposition   AWT 2025 Business Owners Meeting  AWT 2025 Golf Tournament  008 The One with Conor Parrish  186 The One where Conor Parrish Interviews Me, Part 1  187 The One where Conor Parrish Interviews Me, Part 2  Scaling UP! H2O Academy video courses  Submit a Show Idea  The Rising Tide Mastermind  The Hang (November 20, 2025 - 6 PM Eastern Time)    Water You Know with James McDonald  Question: What do we call the liquid formed after steam does its work and has cooled below its dew point?    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.   

 Industrial Water Week 2025: Careers Friday brings the celebration back to first principles—mentors, disciplined training, and field diagnostics that go beyond the screen. Trace reflects on the people who invested in his craft, recognizes guest contributors across the week, and issues a practical challenge to invest in one new professional before the day ends.   Foundations that Compound A candid mentorship story anchors today's episode. Trace recalls how early-career intimidation turned into decades of teaching fundamentals and math at AWT—proof that asking better questions grows better practitioners. Careers Friday becomes a prompt to text the person who built your foundation—and to be that person for someone else.  Fieldcraft Over Flash: A Detective H2O Lesson  The Detective H2O case distills high-value diagnostics for cooling systems: TTPC biocide can mask PTSA and fool controllers into overfeeding inhibitor; missing blowdown lockout during biocide feed wastes product; and stabilized bromine can become over-stabilized in long-HTI systems—driving ORP spikes, corrosion risk, and poor microbial control. Technology is essential, but interpretation is the craft.  Community Voices and a Career Pledge  Careers Friday features greetings from industry professionals and closes with Water You Know, a reminder that water often carries purchased energy (heat, cooling, pressure, flow, pre-treatment) that leaders must account for. The day ends with a clear ask: celebrate your mentors, share your origin story with #IWW25 and #ScalingUpH2O, and pledge to help one newcomer discover industrial water treatment.  Durable careers are built on shared knowledge, thoughtful diagnostics, and intentional mentorship. Use today to do all three.  Listen to the full conversation above. Explore related episodes below. Stay engaged, keep learning, and continue scaling up your knowledge!  Stay engaged, keep learning, and continue scaling up your knowledge!    Timestamps  02:20 — Opening: Industrial Water Week recap (Pretreatment, Boiler, Cooling, Wastewater) leading into Careers Friday. 03:15 — Community recognition: Scaling Up Nation “20,000+ members” and daily celebration via #IWW25 and #ScalingUpH2O. 05:20 — Careers Friday actions: take photos with equipment, mentors, or customers; share to celebrate the craft. 05:29 — Team traditions: the Industrial Water Week cake (including the infamous “water cake” anecdote). 09:16 — Mentorship story: meeting Bruce Ketrick Sr. and Jay Farmery; intimidation becomes investment. 13:12 — Writing the Fundamentals program with Mark Lewis to build durable entry-level foundations. 14:18 — Personal note: when Trace's father passed, how Bruce showed up—mentorship beyond the classroom. 16:15 — Careers greetings begin (Lee Bainbrigge, SMS Environmental): be open-minded, keep learning, focus on customer assurance. 18:07 — Episode reference: Lee's prior appearance (Ep. 370) for Legionella perspectives. 18:21 — Careers greeting (Kalpna Solanki): environmental operator roles as purposeful, global, and essential. 21:39 — Detective H2O — The Case of Knowing It All begins. 38:21 — CWT pathway: free prep resource and 100-question practice exam walkthrough . 42:46 — Water You Know with James McDonald 44:38 — Gratitude for James McDonald's ongoing community impact. 45:04 — Careers Friday challenge: thank your mentors; post your origin story with #IWW25 and #ScalingUpH2O. 46:15 — Final pledge: help one person discover industrial water treatment this week.    Connect with Mike Taraszki  Phone: 510.368.4549  Email: michael.taraszki@wsp.com  Website: www.wsp.com  LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/michaeltaraszki/  linkedin.com/company/wsp/    Connect with Kalpna Solanki  Phone: 778.688.9196  Email: kalpnasolanki1980@gmail.com Water Environment Federation (WEF)  LinkedIn: in/kalpnasolanki    Connect with Lee Bainbrigge  Email: l.bainbrigge@sms-environmental.co.uk  Website: https://sms-environmental.co.uk/  LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/lbainbrigge/  linkedin.com/company/sms-environmental-ltd/    Connect with James Courtney Phone: +1 443 878 2407 Email: james@csctech2o.com Website: https://www.csctech2o.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/james-courtney-cwt-leed-ap-379a6877/    Connect with Laith Charles   Phone: 941-301-1309   Email: laith@ewatermark.net   YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCMuigehZdcquaY14QtGm    Connect with Mark Lewis  Phone: 704.322.5406 Email: MLewis@SELaboratories.com Website: https://www.selaboratories.com/ LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/mark-lewis-01a3b56    Connect with James McDonald   Email: james51471@gmail.com Website: chemaqua.com Industrialwaterweek.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/james-mcdonald-pe/     Links Mentioned  AWT (Association of Water Technologies)  Scaling UP! H2O Academy video courses  Submit a Show Idea  The Rising Tide Mastermind  Industrial Water Week  Water Cake Recipe  031 The One with Mark Lewis  034 The Other One With Mark Lewis, CWT  062 The One with the Pulsafeeder Guy  112 The One Where Trace Is Interviewed By Mark Lewis  141 The One About Neglected Accounts  149 The One About Some of the Lesser-Used Technologies  224 The One About The Internet Of Things (IoT) Augmented Industrial Water Treatment  355 Backflow Prevention: Safeguarding Water Quality  362 Navigating 97-005: Insights and Impacts on Potable Water  370 Unlocking Legionella Solutions: Perspectives on Regulations and Best Practices  394 Visibility and Value: Enhancing Sustainability in Water Treatment  404 Eight Tips for Business Management: Part 1 – Essential Strategies  406 Eight Tips for Business Management: Part 2 – Essential Strategies    Water You Know with James McDonald   Question: What forms of purchased energy may be present in water?       

Wastewater isn't an endpoint—it's a decision point. On Wastewater Thursday, host Trace Blackmore, CWT sharpens the operator's toolkit with field-tested lessons: dose by mechanism, verify by sampling discipline, and use wastewater's fast feedback to protect quality, cost, and permits. Sampling discipline protects credibility Trace recounts an early-career moment when an inspector sampled the wrong location, triggering alarms. Immediate, methodical resampling—guided by logs and a clear process map—proved the system was in spec. The leadership takeaway: embed verification before escalation. Clear sampling points, time-stamped logs, and a rapid “reproduce the reading” drill turn uncertainty into clarity.  Mechanism over myth: coagulant control  In a new Detective H2O case, James McDonald explains why overfeeding coagulant collapses floc. When particles swing past neutral, like charges repel again and settling stalls. The fix is not “more chemistry,” but right-sizing dose to production and confirming with jar tests at the correct take-off point.  From discharge to resource  Greetings from past guests reinforce the shift under way. Arnaud Valleteau de Moulliac (Veolia Water Technology) frames wastewater as a local, decarbonized resource—with energy-positive plants and reuse as standard practice. Steve Russell (Kiewit) notes supply pressure will push even deeper recycling. Mark Lewis, CWT (Southeastern Laboratories) underscores wastewater's advantage: “If you treat it, you see it.”  Make wastewater a reliable, fast-feedback control loop—rooted in charge balance, sampling rigor, and reuse thinking.  Listen to the full conversation above. Explore related episodes below. Stay engaged, keep learning, and continue scaling up your knowledge!    Timestamps:  02:17 — Welcome to Wastewater Thursday and the IWW25 theme: “From foundations to futures.” 03:03 — Why wastewater is “the restart”: cleaning for reuse and sustainability. 04:24 — “Every drop counts from influent to effluent” — defining the professional mandate. 05:12 — Field story setup: jar testing with Trace's father; early lessons. 06:05 — Crisis call: bad regulatory number traced to wrong sampling location. 08:54 — Guest greeting: Arnaud Valleteau de Moulliac (Veolia) on energy-positive, reuse-driven futures. 10:25 — Guest greeting: Steve Russell (Kiewit) on permits, mass balances, and supply-driven recycling. 12:09 — Guest greeting: Mark Lewis, CWT (Southeastern Laboratories) on jar tests and product selection. 14:40 — Detective H2O: The case of too much of a good thing 20:17 — Mechanism lesson: charge neutralization window; like-charge repulsion returns when overdosed. 21:36 — Action: reduce dose; account for residence time; restore performance. 24:29 — IWW25 community prompt: post a safety-approved photo with wastewater equipment; use tags.   Connect with Mark Lewis   Phone: 704.322.5406   Email: MLewis@SELaboratories.com    Website: https://www.selaboratories.com/    LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/mark-lewis-01a3b56    Connect with Steve Russell   Phone: 913.689.4533  Email: steve.russell@kiewit.com  Website: https://www.kiewit.com/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/steve-russell-2b0a7960/    Connect with Arnaud Valleteau de Moulliac   Email: arnaud.valleteau@veolia.com Website: www.veoliawatertechnologies.com LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/arnaud-valleteau-de-moulliac-9b85353a/   www.linkedin.com/company/veolia-water-technologies/    Links Mentioned  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  112 The One Where Trace Is Interviewed By Mark Lewis  141 The One About Neglected Accounts  149 The One About Some of the Lesser-Used Technologies  382 Leading with Safety: How Veolia Embeds Health into Global Culture  396 Navigating Carbon Capture: Water Demands and Wastewater Solutions with Steve Russell  404 Eight Tips for Business Management: Part 1 – Essential Strategies  406 Eight Tips for Business Management: Part 2 – Essential Strategies 

The best leaders are the ones that can hold space for both—care personally and challenge directly. Work never happens in a vacuum. Field calls, customer pressure, travel, and deadlines compound the very real mental load carried by water professionals. In this conversation, Dr. Andy Melton, a professional counselor and executive coach at  www.andymelton.com—shares clear, practical ways leaders and teams can recognize mental health warning signs, set the right boundaries, and respond with care without stepping outside their role.  Care Personally, Challenge Directly—Inside Clear Boundaries Managers aren't neutral parties, and that matters. Andy explains the built-in conflict of interest when a supervisor probes too deeply into an employee's personal struggles. You still need to check in—but do it in role: use open-ended, performance-anchored questions (“What's been challenging for you lately?”), document observations, and offer resources instead of diagnoses. He also highlights Kim Scott's “Radical Candor” frame—care personally and challenge directly—as a durable leadership posture for tough conversations.   Spotting Decline Early—Behavioral, Cognitive, Physical  Before missed KPIs and callbacks spike, there are tells: sudden drops in productivity, withdrawal, irritability, rising absence/tardiness, markedly negative self-talk, and physical complaints (fatigue, headaches, stomach issues). Andy shares a simple “dashboard” self-check—sleep and eating patterns—plus trackable 1–10 scales for stress, energy, engagement, and mood stability to catch trends early.  When It's Serious—Safe Paths and Resources  Anonymous surveys can surface urgent risks—including suicidality. Andy outlines responsible next steps: widen communication, invite follow-ups, and immediately involve a mental health professional or crisis resources. Know the number 988 and your local mobile crisis team information; publish those options prominently so help is never far away.  Grounding Under Load—3 Techniques You Can Use Anywhere  For anxiety (mind racing ahead) and depression (mind stuck in the past), uniting mind and body in the present increases bandwidth. Andy teaches three job-friendly tools: the four-second “box” breath, a five-senses “sensory scan,” and a head-to-toe “progressive muscle relaxation.” Each can be done discreetly at a desk, in a service truck, or before a customer meeting.  Strong operations require strong people. Build a culture that normalizes check-ins, provides resources, and keeps performance expectations clear. That's how teams protect each other and maintain reliability in the field.  Listen to the full conversation above. Stay engaged, keep learning, and continue scaling up your knowledge!    Timestamps    02:20 - Trace welcome Industrial Water Week is next week and why it's our "Super Bowl" 11:38 — Water You Know with James McDonald 13: 11 - Upcoming Events for Water Treatment Professionals    15:14 - Introduction for Dr. Andy Melton 15:35 - Andy's background 19:06 - Why mental health is hard to discuss at work; stigma and judgment 21:40 - Cognitive/physical signs: negative self-talk, fatigue, headaches, stomach issues 23:33 — Why self-awareness is hard; “mirror” idea of counseling/coaching 24:21 — Self “dashboard”: sleep and eating as early indicators 26:22 — Employer question: caring without crossing the line 31:44 — Impact on teammates and operations; why the talk still must happen 32:06 — Culture: build trust so care is believed 36:12 — Psychological safety: education via outside counselors/coaches; offer EAPs 42:07 — 988 explained; local mobile crisis teams and how they respond 45:06 — Awareness first: listen to body; define “stress” simply 48:27 — Grounding overview: techniques to reunite mind and body   Quotes  Struggles in mental health still have stigma… but I do think there are ways to handle this sensitive subject in the workplace. It is really challenging as an employer to be a neutral sort of resource in someone's life.      Connect with Dr. Andy Melton Phone: 615-669-4105  Email: andy@meltoncounseling.com   Website: www.andymelton.com   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andymeltonphd     Guest Resources Mentioned   The Fearless Organization: Creating Psychological Safety in the Workplace for Learning, Innovation, and Growth by Amy C. Edmondson  Crucial Conversations (Third Edition): Tools for Talking When Stakes Are High by Joseph Grenny (Author, Narrator), Kerry Patterson (Author), Ron McMillan (Author), Al Switzler (Author), Emily Gregory (Author, Narrator), McGraw Hill-Ascent Audio (Publisher)  Crucial Conversations Tools for Talking When Stakes Are High, Second Edition by Kerry Patterson, Joseph Grenny, Ron McMillan, and Al Switzler Downloadable materials for workplace mental health presentations  Radical Candor: Fully Revised & Updated Edition: Be a Kick-Ass Boss Without Losing Your Humanity by Kim Scott   Radical Candor | Feedback Training, Coaching & Consulting  Mental Health America (MHA)  Melton Counseling  988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline    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 Cake Recipe  Industrial Water Week   Water You Know with James   Question: What do you call the waste stream coming out of a reverse osmosis unit?    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 happens when cities become “networked”—and water systems start telling us what they need in real time? In this episode, Trace Blackmore speaks with Christine McHugh (CEO, White Strand Development) about practical smart-city strategies for water: real-time monitoring, digital twins, and IoT/AI approaches that turn Legionella control from periodic testing into continuous risk management. Christine frames smart water not as gadgets, but as a disciplined, data-driven process that improves human health, operational efficiency, and insurability. Building the “Networked” City: A Practical Definition   Christine defines a smart city as a networked one—linking health, energy, waste, and water through technology that measures and correlates across systems. The aim isn't novelty; it's safer drinking water and safer water environments via better data and faster decisions. Digital twins, decentralized treatment, and AI-enabled pattern recognition help teams move from “single point-in-time readings” to persistent trends they can act on. Legionella Risk, Reframed as Strategy   Most water programs still sample periodically, waiting days for results. Christine argues the future is pattern-based, proactive control: track temperature, stagnation/flow, and disinfectant continuously; intervene when pattern thresholds indicate elevated risk. This lens aligns water quality, human wellness, and insurance risk reduction, encouraging property insurers and building owners to incentivize water science as part of smart-building operations.  From Sensors to Sense-Making: Hierarchy, Data Lakes, and Reporting  Adding devices isn't enough. Christine stresses a hierarchy of sensors and data governance so operations, engineering, and ESG teams aren't running conflicting reports from siloed sources (BMS vs. cloud dashboards). Her model: create a data lake with agreed-upon sources of truth and standardized outputs so every stakeholder “sees the same movie.”  Case Studies & What “Good” Looks Like  Christine highlights programs that combined water management plans, continuous disinfectant monitoring, and campus-scale digital twins—reducing manual tests, achieving compliance, and cutting consumption. European hospitals using IoT on hot-water systems report faster compliance and fewer manual interventions. The pattern: real-time insight + trained people + maintenance and reporting contracts = measurable risk reduction.  Cybersecurity: Close the Back Doors  Smart water raises legitimate cyber concerns. Christine's guidance: encrypt all sensor communications, hire experts to penetration-test your own systems, and watch for unexpected bridges (e.g., HVAC or even “non-critical” devices) into critical networks. OT/IT segmentation, alert transparency, and a culture of continuous testing matter as much as the sensors themselves.  Public–Private Partnerships (with Academia)  The fastest path to adoption pairs public oversight and access to infrastructure with private-sector technology and capital—and an academic partner for research and validation. Clear performance metrics and maintained as-builts keep pilots honest and scalable.  Resilience: Droughts, Floods, and Stormwater  Smart networks matter beyond Legionella. Real-time consumption, leak detection, and pressure management minimize waste during droughts; stormwater and wastewater sensors prevent overflows that contaminate receiving waters during floods. Long-running sensor programs abroad show how a single resort area eliminated contamination events by instrumenting the system and responding to alerts.  Emerging Tech to Watch  From self-healing pipes and biosensors to drone inspections and AI-orchestrated networks, Christine sees water systems becoming more like natural ecosystems—self-regulating, adaptive, and resilient—while humans supervise exceptions and validate performance.  For industrial water professionals, the takeaway is clear: treat smart water as an integrated risk-management system, not a pile of devices. Invest in sensor hierarchy, unified data, and team training, and align the work with safety and insurance outcomes. That's how you protect people, performance, and the balance sheet. Stay engaged, keep learning, and continue scaling up your knowledge!    Timestamps  02:37 - Trace Blackmore kicks off the episode by reminiscing about the TV show Leave It to Beaver and how families used to watch together in the 1950s.  08:40 - Water You Know with James McDonald  09:48 - Upcoming Events for Water Treatment Professionals   12:20 - Interview with Christine McHugh, CEO of White Strand Development  13:03 -  What Is a Smart City?   15:13 - Risk Reduction as Strategy   16:23 – Real-Time Monitoring: Core Controls  17:06 - Smart Fixtures & “Only When Needed” Flushing  19:28 — Duplication, BMS vs Cloud, Data Governance  25:03 — Case Studies: VT & Copenhagen University Hospital  31:59— Cybersecurity: Water Systems at Risk  40:21— City Resilience: Drought & Flooding  41:59 — Emerging Tech to Watch    Quotes  “Technology will give us real-time patterns, and… by just having that pattern recognition, we have power to be more proactive.”   “We really should be trying to break into our own system or hiring people to break into our own system… the bad guys will find it as well.”   “Creating a water system that's more like a natural ecosystem… self-regulating, adaptive, and maximizes both efficiency and resiliency.”    Connect with Christine McHugh Phone: 9179409383  Email: christine.mchugh@whitestrand.com  Website: White Strand Development  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christine-a-mchugh/     Guest Resources Mentioned   Practitioners' Perspective on the Prevalent Water Quality Management Practices for Legionella Control in Large Buildings in the United States  Tenets of a holistic approach to drinking water-associated pathogen research, management, and communication   Smart Cities, Copenhagen and the Power of Data   Chlorine Disinfection of Legionella spp., L. pneumophila, and Acanthamoeba under Warm Water Premise Plumbing Conditions  NLM's Water heater temperature set point and water use patterns influence Legionella pneumophila and associated microorganisms at the tap    Scaling UP! H2O Resources Mentioned  AWT (Association of Water Technologies)  Scaling UP! H2O Academy video courses  Submit a Show Idea  The Rising Tide Mastermind  Industrial Water Week     Water You Know with James McDonald  Question: What type of resin is primarily used in a sodium zeolite water softener?    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.   

Can a carbon-negative, bio-based molecule replace legacy phosphonates and help you use less azole—without sacrificing corrosion performance? In this episode, host Trace Blackmore, CWT, welcomes Matheus Paschoalino, PhD Senior Business Development Manager and Microbial Control SME of Solugen, to unpack polyhydroxycarboxylic acids (PHCs) and how they're changing cooling-water programs from the field up. We cover HEDP replacement in light-duty systems, azole enhancement in copper-challenged waters, a second-generation cut for heavy-duty heat flux, and PHC behavior with oxidizers and non-oxidizer biocides.  From Bioforge to Basin: How PHCs Are Made and Why It Matters  Paschoalino explains Solugen's chemo-enzymatic “Bioforge” approach that oxidizes sugars (corn-syrup feedstock) into PHCs with very high yield and no practical byproducts—a pathway validated as carbon-negative. He outlines how different “cuts” (monoacid-rich vs. diacid-rich) map to different use cases, and notes current manufacturing capacity and adoption across hundreds of towers.  Replacing HEDP in Light-Duty Programs  For hospitals, HVAC, and other light-duty systems, PHCs have fully replaced HEDP as the anodic corrosion inhibitor while keeping PBTC for scale, enabling lower total phosphorus formulations with equal or better performance compared to status-quo organics.  Azole Enhancement, Free Copper, and Real-World Cost  Field work showed PHCs chelate metals quickly, protecting azole demand when free copper is present (e.g., after oxidizer flushing) and reducing expensive azole overdosing. One university case dropped an adjunct 8-ppm azole feed by pairing the base 3–4 ppm azole with PHC, yielding both corrosion control and lower discharge costs.  Second-Generation PHCs for Heavy-Duty Heat Flux (Toward “Neutral Phosphorus”)  At higher heat flux and stabilized-phosphate conditions, a diacid-rich second-generation PHC proved more stable, enabling orthophosphate reduction and opening a path toward “neutral phosphorus” programs that leverage background phosphate in municipal make-up. Bench data also show synergy with trace metals (e.g., zinc).  Biocide Potentiation and Where It Works Best PHCs remain stable with oxidizers like chlorine dioxide and bleach. Their most compelling synergy shows up with non-oxidizers and peracetic acid (PAA): as a biocide potentiator, PHCs can reduce the need to overdose actives such as THPS, glutaraldehyde, quats, and DBNPA by first complexing interfering metals (e.g., Fe/FeS), letting the biocide perform as intended.  Not “Bug Food”: Pilot Cooling Towers and Oxidizer Demand  To address the industry's biggest concern with bio-based chemistries, Solugen ran side-by-side outdoor pilot cooling towers under identical bleach control. Result: comparable oxidizer usage and consistently low counts versus HEDP—evidence that PHCs don't fuel biofilm.  Chelation Mechanics, Polymer Savings, and White Rust  PHCs chelate beyond acid-group stoichiometry thanks to multiple hydroxyls and conformational effects—critical for controlling dissolved metals and protecting films. In stressed heat-flux/chlorine conditions, PHCs reduced calcium-phosphate fouling versus HEDP, often allowing polymer dosage cuts. Early data also show promise for white-rust mitigation on galvanized systems, with the diacid-rich cut delivering the strongest reductions.  For practitioners, the message is pragmatic: PHCs aren't “lab curiosities.” They're fielded at scale, enabling lower-phosphorus programs, protecting costly azole inventories, widening the operational window under oxidizer stress, and potentiating select biocides—while staying compatible with common metals. If you manage cooling assets under cost, compliance, and performance pressure, this episode gives you a clear technical playbook to evaluate.  Listen now, review the papers in the show notes, and test a pilot where it counts—on your heat exchangers.  Stay engaged, keep learning, and continue scaling up your knowledge!    Timestamps  02:15 - Trace Blackmore shares a quick personal open: spotting the Goodyear Blimp (100th anniversary), using memories as fuel rather than limits, and a mindset reset around the word “can't.”  06:42 - Upcoming Events for Water Treatment Professionals   09:23 - Water You Know with James McDonald  11:41 - Interview with Matheus Paschoalino, Senior Business Development Manager and Microbial Control SME of Solugen  12:02 - HEDP replacement in light-duty programs; lower total phosphorus without losing performance  19:13 - Heavy-duty heat flux: second-generation (diacid-rich) PHCs and reducing orthophosphate  20:39 - “Neutral phosphorus” approach  27:42 - Biocide potentiation: synergy with PAA; strongest effects with non-oxidizers (e.g., THPS)  33:03 - “Bug food?” Pilot side-by-side cooling towers (Houston)  37:39 - HEDP systems fouled with calcium phosphate while PHC system showed only minor patching (CTI paper)  41:44 - Early evidence: white-rust mitigation on galvanized systems (seeking field partners)    Quotes  “Use your past as history, not as a limiter.” - Trace Blackmore  “Plan where you'll be; you never know what you'll learn or who you'll meet.” - Trace Blackmore   “First-gen PHCs let us replace HEDP in light-duty programs and keep performance with lower total phosphorus.” - Matheus Paschoalino  “Non-oxidizing biocides work best with PHCs—we target the metals first so you stop over-dosing the biocide.” - Matheus Paschoalino  “We like to be very conservative… we start with the laboratory; we start with light duty. Now we are going to heavy duty.”    Connect with Matheus Paschoalino, PhD   Phone: 14847193979  Email: matheus.paschoalino@solugen.com  Website: Home - New - Solugen | Solugen  LinkedIn: Matheus P. Paschoalino, PhD | LinkedIn  Solugen: Overview | LinkedIn     Guest Resources Mentioned   I Must Betray You by Ruta Sepetys   Blog entitled “Achieving Phosphorus-Neutral Cooling Treatment Using Carbon-Negative Additives” by Solugen Verza360® Enables Cost Savings with Effective Biocide Potentiation in Produced Water - Oil & Gas Solutions Case Study by Solugen  2025 Winter Issue of CTI Journal paper TP24-16, “Toward Phosphorus-Neutral Cooling Tower Treatment Using Carbon-Negative Environmentally Friendly Additive”  Presentation at AMPP entitled "Novel Biobased Carbon-Negative Corrosion Inhibitors Enabling Environmentally Friendliness"    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: Back in the day, what was the treatment used for corrosion inhibition in cooling water systems that was banned around 1985 in the United States from widespread use due to its toxicological impact?    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 if HR wasn't the department you dreaded — but the partner that helped your team thrive?  In this episode of Scaling UP! H2O, host Trace Blackmore welcomes Tia Amundson, HR Director at HOH Water Technology, to explore how human resources can be a strategic driver of talent, culture, and profitability in the water treatment industry.  Redefining HR's Role  Tia shares her journey into water treatment and how she built HOH's HR department from the ground up. Instead of treating HR as a compliance function, she reframed it as a leadership partner—focused on employee connections, transparent communication, and culture building. From structured check-ins at 30, 60, and 90 days to coaching managers and bridging communication gaps, her approach ensures employees feel supported, heard, and connected.  Culture as Competitive Advantage  HOH's success story demonstrates how culture directly shapes business outcomes. Tia explains how open-book management, employee engagement surveys, and intentional recognition programs have increased retention, profitability, and trust across the organization. By aligning HR strategies with EOS (Entrepreneurial Operating System), HOH has cultivated an environment where employees thrive and deliver exceptional service.  Talent, Retention, and the Future of HR  Finding and retaining the right people remains one of the industry's biggest challenges. Tia outlines the importance of a clear employee value proposition, authentic recruiting practices, and a commitment to work-life balance. She also discusses how HR will evolve over the next decade, balancing automation with the irreplaceable human element of caring for people.  Dream Management and Employee Growth  As a Certified Dream Manager, Tia integrates personal growth with professional development. By helping employees pursue their own dreams, HOH has fostered deeper engagement, loyalty, and breakthroughs that extend far beyond the workplace.  Conclusion  For leaders in the water treatment industry, this episode challenges you to view HR not as a cost center, but as a powerful lever for long-term success. Strategic HR practices can reduce turnover, build culture, and give your organization a competitive edge.  Stay engaged, keep learning, and continue scaling up your knowledge!    Timestamps  02:28 - Trace Blackmore welcomes listeners, shares personal “sharpen the saw” growth theme  04:53 - Sharpen-the-saw story  08:10 - Water You Know with James McDonald  10:05 - Upcoming Events for Water Treatment Professionals   13:15 - Interview with a friend and Rising Tide Mastermind member Tia Amundson, HR Director, HOH Water Technology   13:30 - HR as employee connection + leadership alignment, not a “principal's office”  16:32 - From hiring to long-term care  19:14 - Coaching managers  23:49 - Turnover → P&L  33:12 – Recruitment Realities   44:03 – Dream Manager Program  48:11 – Overcoming Skepticism   50:02 – The Future of HR  51:13 – Start/Stop for HR  52:50 – Foundational operating system (EOS) first    Quotes  “HR isn't about punishment—it's about building trust, culture, and strategic advantage.”  “Pour into your employees, and they will pour into their work. That discretionary effort is what differentiates great companies.”  “Open communication and transparency aren't soft skills—they're the foundation of an intentional culture.”  “We started this interview saying we'd shatter how people think about HR—and I think we've shattered about a dozen things already.”   “When you engage employees in their personal dreams, you directly impact workplace engagement.”    Connect with Tia Amundson Phone: +12247721377  Email: tamundson@hohwatertechnology.com   Website: www.hohwatertechnology.com   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tia-amundson-shrm-cp/     Guest Resources Mentioned   HOH Water Technology   EOS (Entrepreneurial Operating System)   Gallup Q12 Engagement Survey   The Dream Manager by Matthew Kelly  How to Be a Great Boss: Gino Wickman, René Boer  Traction by Gino Wickman  Three Signs of a Miserable Job by Patrick Lencioni   Wellbeing at Work: How to Build Resilient and Thriving Teams by Jim Clifton (Author) & Jim Harter   People: Dare to Build an Intentional Culture (The EOS Mastery Series) by Mark O'Donnell (Author), Kelly Knight (Author), CJ DuBe' (Author)   Beyond High Performance by Jason Jaggard    Scaling UP! H2O Resources Mentioned  AWT (Association of Water Technologies)  Industrial Water Week  Scaling UP! H2O's Industrial Water Week Resources Scaling UP! H2O Academy video courses Submit a Show Idea  The Rising Tide Mastermind   Water You Know with James McDonald  Question: What are some reasons for softener resin beads to crack?    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.     

With those words, Jemma Tennant highlights one of the most profound differences between Legionella management in Europe and the United States. In this episode of Scaling UP! H2O, host Trace Blackmore welcomes Jemma Tennant, Chair of the Water Management Society (WMSoc), to explore how legislation, enforcement, and professional training shape the fight against Legionella.   Proactive Regulation and Duty of Care  The UK treats Legionella as a foreseeable and preventable risk. Jemma explains how laws like the Health and Safety at Work Act and COSHH Regulations require mandatory Legionella risk assessments, temperature monitoring, and written control schemes—even when no cases have occurred. This contrasts with the U.S., where ASHRAE 188 serves as guidance rather than enforceable law, often triggering enforcement only after outbreaks.  Jemma shares a case study where a housing association was fined £1.2 million despite no recorded illness, underscoring the UK's proactive stance on protecting public health. Hospitals, Design, and Emerging Challenges  From hospital plumbing layouts to new “waterless” intensive care units, Jemma details how design choices can either mitigate or magnify waterborne risk. Scotland's model of involving water safety groups at the design stage provides a proactive example for healthcare worldwide. She also outlines how climate change, net-zero initiatives, and rising ambient temperatures are complicating control strategies across Europe.  Raising Standards Through Collaboration  As Chair of WMSoc, Jemma is leading efforts to raise industry standards and reverse what she calls a “race to the bottom.” She describes partnerships with AWT in the U.S. and LMAG in Australia to share expertise across borders. The episode also explores her pursuit of the Certified Water Technologist (CWT) credential and her vision for adapting the certification for UK professionals.  Conclusion  This conversation is a call to action for water treatment professionals everywhere: regulations, standards, and collaboration matter. Whether in cooling towers, hospitals, or housing estates, Legionella management requires vigilance, shared knowledge, and a commitment to raising the bar. Listen to the full episode and discover how global collaboration can shape safer water management practices.  Stay engaged, keep learning, and continue scaling up your knowledge!    Timestamps 01:55 - Trace Blackmore introduces the final installment of Legionella Awareness Month 2025  05:30 - Water You Know with James McDonald   07:30 - Upcoming Events for Water Treatment Professionals     14:50 - Interview with Jemma Tennant, SMS Environmental, Chair of the Water Management Society (WMSoc)  15:24 - Jemma's background: growing up in the U.S. and UK, science upbringing, rotifers, and wastewater treatment career.  32:25 - The Water Management Society: structure, training, collaboration with AWT and LMAG  43:00 - Raising industry standards: combating the “race to the bottom” in UK water treatment.    Quotes “In the UK, we're prosecuted for the potential for harm, not just actual harm. Legionella is treated as a foreseeable and preventable risk.”  “It's the transition between just doing the task to understanding the why behind the task.”  “We're seeing a serious drop in industry standards—a race to the bottom—and that's why raising the bar is so important.”  “At the end of it, the CWT covers everything. You end up being a complete water treater.”  “Always be honest when you don't know the answer, then go and learn. That's how you grow.”   Connect with Jemma Tennant Phone: 447828315336  Email: j.tennant@sms-environmental.co.uk   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jemma-tennant-mwmsoc-2636985b/    Guest Resources Mentioned  Water Management Society (WMSoc)  LMAG - Legionella Management Advisory Group - LMAG  The Women by Kristin Hannah (Author)  HTM 04-01 – UK healthcare water safety standards  The Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 2002 (COSHH Regulations 2002)  Health and Safety at Work etc Act 1974  UKAS Accreditation  ANAB (US Laboratory Accreditation)    Scaling UP! H2O Resources Mentioned  AWT (Association of Water Technologies)  ANSI/ASHRAE Standard 188-2021 for Legionnaires' Disease Risk Management  ASHRAE Standard-188-2021, Building Water Management Plans – Summary  Scaling UP! H2O Academy video courses  Submit a Show Idea  The Rising Tide Mastermind Ep 101 The One with Colin Frayne, CWT  Ep 203 The One With Our Across The Pond Legionella Expert, John Sandford  Ep 370 Unlocking Legionella Solutions: Perspectives on Regulations and Best Practices    Water You Know with James McDonald Question: Does Hydroxide Alkalinity in a steam boiler water ALWAYS equal 2P-M?   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.     

Legionella remains one of the most complex challenges for water professionals worldwide. How do we balance effective monitoring with realistic costs—and which strategies deliver true public health impact? In this episode, Trace Blackmore welcomes Dr. Vincenzo Romano Spica,  Head Public Health University of Rome "Foro Italico to explore new insights from his comparative research on Legionella control. Reframing Legionella Risk  Dr. Spica explains why public health data increasingly points to Legionella pneumophila—not all Legionella species—as the primary concern for human health. He shares how pan-European data modeling and peer-reviewed studies demonstrate that broad-spectrum monitoring may overburden systems without delivering proportional safety gains.  Cost-Benefit Models and Sustainability  Water professionals know that testing and compliance require resources. Dr. Spica discusses cost-benefit analysis frameworks that help decision-makers evaluate where investments deliver the greatest reduction in risk. He also highlights the sustainability implications of over-testing, from lab resources to environmental waste streams.  European Regulations and Legal Liability  The conversation also explores the European Drinking Water Directive 2020/2184, national approaches to Legionella, and how liability shifts when contamination is detected. Dr. Spica's insights illuminate what building owners, operators, and regulators must weigh as they update management plans.  Conclusion  For engineers, operators, and technical managers, this episode provides a clear framework for thinking about Legionella beyond routine testing. It's about focusing on the pathogen that truly drives disease outcomes, aligning regulatory strategy with science, and applying resources where they matter most.  Stay engaged, keep learning, and continue scaling up your knowledge!    Timestamps    02:24 - Trace opens the episode, welcoming listeners to Legionella Awareness Month and framing the call to action  05:37 - Water You Know with James McDonald  10:04 - Upcoming Events for Water Treatment Professionals   14:06 - Trace introduces Dr. Vincenzo Romano Spica, Head of Public Health at the University of Rome Foro Italico   17:22 - Dr. Spica outlines why Legionella pneumophila is the main pathogen of concern in Europe 35:04 - Dr. Spica explains Disability Adjusted Life Years (DALYs) as a measure of public health burden  44:08 - Monitoring strategies and how different culture methods affect outcomes  46:16 - The role of water temperature in Legionella proliferation    Quotes  “Not all Legionella are equal—public health data shows us it's Legionella pneumophila that drives the real risk.”  “Testing everything may look safer on paper, but in practice, it diverts resources from where they can have the greatest impact.”  “Risk management should not be a checklist; it should be a strategic allocation of resources aligned with outcomes.”  “European data models show that a targeted approach can deliver both better safety and greater sustainability.”    Connect with Dr. Vincenzo Romano Spica   Phone: +39.06.36733247 Email: vincenzo.romanospica@uniroma4.it  LinkedIn: vincenzo romano spica | LinkedIn        Guest Resources Mentioned   Legionnaires' Disease Surveillance and Public Health Policies in Italy: A Mathematical Model for Assessing Prevention Strategies by Dr. Spica et. al  Alessando Cassini's Burden of Infectious Diseases in Europe methodological challenges and opportunities for public health policy  NLM's Impact of infectious diseases on population health using incidence-based disability-adjusted life years (DALYs): results from the Burden of Communicable Diseases in Europe study, European Union and European Economic Area countries, 2009 to 2013  Supplemental information: Impact of UAT Diagnostic Methods on Estimates of Legionnaires' disease Caused by non-pneumophila Legionella    Scaling UP! H2O Resources Mentioned  AWT (Association of Water Technologies)  Scaling UP! H2O Academy video courses  Submit a Show Idea  Scaling UP! H2O's Legionella Resources Library  434 Encore Interview with Patsy Root    Water You Know with James McDonald  Question: What is it called when a valve is closed at the end of a pipeline system causing a pressure wave to propagate in the pipe and a loud banging sound?    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.     

“Rules written in a panic rarely stand the test of time.”   In this encore episode, Trace Blackmore welcomes back Patsy Root, Senior Manager of Government Affairs at IDEXX Water and active member of the AWT Legislative and Regulatory Committee. Patsy brings global data, case studies, and clear recommendations for smarter Legionella regulation — and why a targeted focus on Legionella pneumophila can save both lives and resources.   From Outbreaks to Proactive Policies  Patsy unpacks a central truth: most regulations emerge reactively, often after a high-profile outbreak. Drawing on her research from the U.S., Canada, and Europe, she compares different jurisdictions' approaches — from Quebec's targeted testing mandate to New York City's broader species-based rule — and reveals why some frameworks reduce cases far more effectively than others.  The Case for Targeted Testing  Legionella encompasses around 60 species, but not all carry equal risk. Patsy explains why L. pneumophila — the species most responsible for Legionnaires' disease — demands priority in monitoring and control. Through examples from France, Germany, the UK, and beyond, she demonstrates how focusing on the pathogen itself, rather than all species, leads to measurable public health gains and cost savings.  Educating Lawmakers and Industry  Beyond technical data, Patsy emphasizes the importance of water professionals engaging with legislators. She outlines how clear communication, evidence-based recommendations, and standards like ASHRAE 188 can guide practical, enforceable rules. Her advice balances science with real-world feasibility, helping both regulators and facility managers protect health without unnecessary expense.  This conversation is more than a policy discussion — it's a blueprint for better public health protection through smart, focused water management. Whether you work in compliance, operations, or advocacy, Patsy's insights will equip you to engage in the legislative process with clarity and authority. Stay engaged, keep learning, and continue scaling up your knowledge!    Timestamps 01:52 - Trace opens with Legionella Awareness Month reflections and the importance of challenging industry assumptions   05:38 - Water You Know with James McDonald  07:13 - Upcoming Events for Water Treatment Professionals  09:47 - Introduction to guest Patsy Root, Senior Manager of Government Affairs at IDEXX Water and member of AWT's Legislative & Regulatory Committee.  17:31 - Global comparison of Legionella-related laws and guidelines  27:03 - Understanding Legionella species vs. L. pneumophila  44:42 - Legislative engagement tips for water professionals    Quotes  “The worst time to write a rule is when you're in the middle of a panic.”  “Finding Legionella species is not the same risk level as finding L. pneumophila — and the data prove it.”  “Keep the hot water hot, keep the cold water cold, keep the water moving, and keep a decent disinfectant.”  “Biology fascinates me — the fact that bacteria can signal each other to come join a good spot is both creepy and amazing.”  “When lawmakers understand how preventable this disease is, they can become champions for real change.”    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   CDC Toolkit: Developing a Legionella Water Management Program  IDEXX Legiolert® Testing Method  IDEXX's Why test for Legionella pneumophila to prevent Legionnaires' disease?  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.  Canada Legionella bacteria control in federal buildings  Leveraging regulatory monitoring data for quantitative microbial risk assessment of Legionella pneumophila in cooling towers  NYC Data Catalog about Cooling Tower Registrations  NYC Health's Cooling Tower Registration and Maintenance    Scaling UP! H2O Resources Mentioned AWT (Association of Water Technologies)   AWT's Legislative/Regulatory Committee   Submit a Show Idea  The Rising Tide Mastermind  403 Navigating the New Frontier: Patsy Root on Legionella Legislation   Scaling UP! H2O's Legionella Resources Library  ASHRAE Standard-188-2021, Building Water Management Plans – Summary    Water You Know with James   Question: What is the mass balance around a cooling 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.   

What if preventing Legionella outbreaks wasn't about adding more chemicals, but removing what the bacteria needs to survive? In this episode of Scaling UP! H2O, host Trace Blackmore talks with Dr. David Krause, Certified Industrial Hygienist, toxicologist, and founder of HC3, about his groundbreaking approach — LIDO (Legionella Inhibition by Deoxygenation). Legionella on the Rise  Dr. Krause has investigated high-profile Legionella outbreaks and seen firsthand how current prevention strategies often fall short. Despite ASHRAE 188 standards, CMS requirements, and increasing water management plan adoption, Legionella cases continue to climb — often due to infrastructure issues, insufficient monitoring, and a lack of evidence-based guidance.  Inside an Outbreak Investigation  From the first call at 4:30 on a Friday to the coordination between local health departments, state agencies, and the CDC, Krause explains the rigorous (and sometimes chaotic) process of pinpointing outbreak sources. He also reveals why public communication can make or break an outbreak response.  Introducing LIDO Technology  Rather than relying solely on chemical disinfection, LIDO uses gas transfer membrane contactors to remove dissolved oxygen from hot water systems. Legionella can't thrive below 0.3 ppm DO — meaning systems treated with LIDO create an inhospitable environment for growth. Krause shares lab results, pilot project findings, and how this approach could extend system life while reducing corrosion and byproducts. The Bigger Picture  This episode goes beyond technology — it's about rethinking water management, building better outbreak communication, and challenging industry norms. Whether you're a facility manager, water treater, or public health professional, Krause's insights will shift the way you think about Legionella control.   Prevention starts with awareness — and action. Dr. Krause's work shows there's more than one path to safer water systems, and innovation comes from asking better questions.  Listen now to discover how Legionella investigations unfold and how LIDO technology could reshape prevention. Download the free discussion guide located at Connect with the Guest section, and start the conversation with your team.  Stay engaged, keep learning, and continue scaling up your knowledge!    Timestamps   02:24 - Trace Blackmore shares an Introduction to Legionella Awareness Month and the value of ANSI/ASHRAE 188, ASSE 12080 certification  08:17 - Water You Know with James McDonald  11:52 - Interview with Dr. David Krause and his background in public health, toxicology, and Legionella Investigations   16:36 - Why cases are rising despite standards, plans, and certifications  21:39 - The significance of Legionella pneumophila serogroup 1 vs. other species  26:38 - Media influence on outbreak perception and the need for accurate communication  31:15 - Business risks of not having a water management plan  41:48 - How LIDO works: removing dissolved oxygen to prevent Legionella growth  48:41 - Current pilot projects and operational considerations    Quotes  “Legionella is an obligate aerobe – without dissolved oxygen, it simply can't grow.” “An ounce of prevention is worth ten pounds of cure when it comes to water management plans.” “Once an outbreak starts, testing becomes your life.” “We have so much information on waterborne pathogens – the challenge is making a habit of learning the next thing.”   Connect with Dr. David Krause Phone: 850-766-1938   Email: dkrause@HC3FL.com   Website: http://www.hc3fl.com/   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drdavidkrause/     Guest Resources Mentioned   AIHA – Recognition, Evaluation, and Control of Legionella in Building Water Systems (2nd Edition, 2022)   ACGIH – Bioaerosols: Assessment and Control (Red Book, Updated Edition)   IDSA's 'Increasing Incidence of Legionellosis in the United States, 1990–2005: Changing Epidemiologic Trends'   Legionella and the Role of Dissolved Oxygen in Its Growth and Inhibition: A Review by J. David Krause   Journal of Occupational and Environmental Hygiene Controlling Legionella pneumophila growth in hot water systems by reducing dissolved oxygen levels by J. David Krause   CSTE – National Legionellosis Case Definitions (2020)  LIDO: A Revolutionary Approach to Legionella Management    Scaling UP! H2O Resources Mentioned  AWT (Association of Water Technologies)  Scaling UP! H2O Academy video courses  Submit a Show Idea  Scaling UP! H2O's Legionella Resources Library   ASHRAE Standard 188 (Legionellosis: Risk Management for Building Water Systems)  ASHRAE-188-2021-Summary-Technical-Bulletin_01.pdf    Water You Know with James Question: Despite all the training, engineering controls, policies, regulations, laws, and direction, at the end of the day, who is most responsible for your personal safety?    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.     

"Just because you have a water management plan doesn't mean it's working."  That's the hard truth Matt Freije, founder and CEO of HC Info, delivers in this episode of Scaling UP! H2O. As the architect behind LAMPS — a leading cloud-based platform for water management programs — Matt joins Trace Blackmore to explore the critical evolution of water safety, compliance standards, and real-world implementation challenges facing facilities in 2025.   Beyond the Binder: Water Management Plans That Actually Work  In an era of heightened awareness and shifting regulations, simply checking the compliance box is no longer enough. Matt walks us through the CDC data and ASHRAE findings that make a strong case for active, ongoing water management — not just documentation. Drawing from recent outbreak investigations, he explains why implementation, not content, is often the root failure.  Trace and Matt discuss the widespread misconception that water management plans guarantee zero Legionella. They also address the real barriers preventing facilities from taking action — from budget limitations to internal roadblocks — and what water professionals can do to influence smarter, risk-based decisions. Regulatory Pressure, AI Integration, and What's Coming Next  With ASHRAE 514, AAMI ST108, and ASSE 12080 gaining ground, the water industry is seeing increased scrutiny, especially in healthcare and hospitality facilities. Matt outlines how these evolving standards are transforming expectations and forcing a shift in accountability.  The conversation takes a forward-looking turn as they explore the power of AI and aggregated analytics to optimize pathogen control. With 10,000 buildings in the LAMPS system, HC Info is preparing to offer data that could shape public health outcomes nationwide — a move that could redefine how we benchmark performance and interpret Legionella test data at scale. Culture, Purpose, and Long-Term Vision  As a mechanical engineer with an epidemiology background, Matt also reflects on the human side of leadership — from building a values-driven team to embracing his faith as a cornerstone of decision-making. His message for water treaters is clear: “Either do it well or don't do it.”  For facilities leaders, his advice is to stop fearing complexity and start leveraging the tools available — because water management done right can improve not just compliance, but health outcomes, asset longevity, and operational resilience. Conclusion  This episode is a masterclass in how to future-proof your water safety strategy. With actionable insights, emerging technologies, and a clear call to accountability, Matt Freije reminds us that smart water management is both a technical responsibility and a moral imperative.  Listen to the full conversation to understand how new standards, digital tools, and intentional leadership are shaping the future of water safety. Stay engaged, keep learning, and continue scaling up your knowledge!    Timestamps   04:50 – Trace reflects on feedback from listeners who learned the origins of Legionella and how re-telling important stories is essential in water treatment education  06:49 - Upcoming Events for Water Treatment Professionals 12:44 – Water You Know with James McDonald  14:14 – Introduction with Matt Freije returning guest   15:46 – Biggest Challenges in Water Management Plans Today  19:47 – Regulatory Evolution: ASHRAE 514, ASC 12080, and Joint Commission Inspections  44:14 – The Document is Not the Plan: Why Systems Must Be Implemented  48:08 – Impact and Adoption: Why Water Management Plans Truly Matter    Quotes  “Either do it well, or don't do it. A half-hearted water management plan can do more harm than good.”   “Most facilities still don't have a water management plan — and many don't even know what one is.”  “Just because you had the conversation once doesn't mean it stuck. With Legionella, repeating the important things is critical.”  “Analytics should make the problem obvious — you shouldn't need a PhD to interpret what your water data is telling you.”    Connect with Matt Freije  Email: mfreije@hcinfo.com Website: Legionella Water Management Plans  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattfreije    Guest Resources Mentioned   HC Info  ASHRAE Standard 188 (Legionellosis: Risk Management for Building Water Systems)   ASSE 12080 Certification: Professional Qualifications for Legionella Water Safety and Management Personnel  Good Energy: The Surprising Connection Between Metabolism and Limitless Health by Casey Means  The Boys in the Boat: Nine Americans and Their Epic Quest for Gold at the 1936 Berlin Olympics by Daniel James Brown   John Adams by David McCullough (Audiobook)   John Adams by David McCullough (Paperback)    Keep Your Love On: Connection Communication and Boundaries by Danny Silk (Paperback)  The Bible (KJV)     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 Resources Library  ANSI/AAMI ST108:2023 Water for the Processing of Medical Services   ASSE 12080 Training & Certification, Get certified to the ASSE/IAPMO/ANSI 12080 Standard: Professional Qualifications Standard for Legionella Water Safety and Management Personnel  CDC's  Key Findings: Outbreaks and Water Management Gaps (2015–2019 review of Legionnaires' disease investigations   083 The One About Water Management Plans   431 Legionella Awareness Month Kickoff!    Water You Know with James McDonald  Question: What do we call the formation and subsequent collapse of vapor-filled bubbles in water due to rapid pressure changes?    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.       

Are You Ready to Talk About Legionella?  Every August, we dedicate an entire month to a topic that touches public health, liability, and the core of what water treaters do — yet it's still misunderstood by many: Legionella.  In this episode, Trace Blackmore kicks off Legionella Awareness Month by returning to the basics. Where did Legionella get its name? What makes it dangerous? And why is there still confusion between a water treatment program and a water management plan?  Tracing It Back: History, Misconceptions, and Missed Conversations  Trace opens with the 1976 American Legion outbreak in Philadelphia — the moment the medical and water treatment worlds collided. He explains how the bacteria was identified, how the term Legionella pneumophila came to be, and how Pontiac Fever and Legionnaires' Disease represent two ends of the same pathogenic spectrum.  But more importantly, he challenges us to think critically about the language we use. Saying “Legionella” casually — without understanding whether we're referring to the bacteria, the illness, or the implications of a test result — can lead to major breakdowns in communication between service providers and facility managers.  A Water Treatment Program Is Not a Legionella Plan  Many professionals know how to deliver great chemical treatment. But too often, when a Legionella test comes back positive, the customer assumes the water treater is responsible. This episode explains how that misunderstanding happens—and how to prevent it through proactive, well-framed conversations.  Trace walks through why seasonal testing is the bare minimum, what makes a good water management team, and why documentation and pre-approved action plans are essential for clarity and peace of mind when results come in.  He also introduces tools like the CDC Legionella Toolkit, ASHRAE 188, and ASSE 12080—resources every industrial water professional should know and use.  The Systems at Risk — And Why It's Not Just Cooling Towers  Trace breaks down the environments where Legionella thrives cooling towers, stagnant pipes, dead legs, hot water systems with low temperatures, decorative fountains, humidifiers, and spas. He highlights why biofilm protection matters, why heat isn't always enough, and how mixing valves and plumbing design can support both safety and scald prevention.  You'll hear how real-world scenarios unfold—and how one positive test, without the right planning, can lead to panic, blame, and liability risk for everyone involved.  Legionella isn't just a technical issue — it's a human one. Whether you're in the field, managing accounts, or advising clients, this episode offers practical tools and powerful reminders for having the conversations that count.  The professionals who lead these conversations are the ones building trust, avoiding risk, and elevating the industry.   Listen to the full episode and explore the Legionella Resource Library at Legionella Resources. Stay engaged, keep learning, and continue scaling up your knowledge!    Timestamps    02: 12 – Trace opens the episode with an overview of Legionella Awareness Month  08:47 – Legionella vs. Legionellosis  15:51 – The Miscommunication That Hurts Trust  27:13 – Where Legionella Hides  28:14 – Key Resources  33:22 – Water You Know with James McDonald  34:47– Upcoming Events for Water Treatment Professionals    Quotes  “Cooling towers are guilty until proven innocent — and that's how the industry sees them.”  “Legionella is not your responsibility unless you've set the right expectations in writing.”  “Don't wait until a test is positive to have the conversation. By then, emotions are already high.”  “ASHRAE 188 doesn't prescribe. It describes it. It's up to us to translate it for each system.”  “Education isn't just about reading guidelines. It's about knowing how to guide your clients.”    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  CDC's "Toolkits"  CDC's "Toolkit: Developing a Legionella Water Management Program"  CDC's "Toolkit: Controlling Legionella in Common Sources of Exposure"  ASHRAE 188-2021 “Legionellosis: Risk Management for Building Water Systems”  CMS Mandates Water Management Programs in Healthcare Facilities  CMS QSO 17 – 30 Memorandum   ASSE/IAPMO/ANSI/CAN Series 12000-2024 (Download)  ASSE's Infection Control and Water Quality  ANSI/AAMI ST108:2023 Water for the Processing of Medical Services    CDC's Routine Legionella Testing Figure 1: A multifactorial approach to performance indicator interpretation  World Health Organization (WHO) 'Legionellosis'     Water You Know with James McDonald  Question: Why is barium chloride used in the standard Hydroxide Alkalinity test?    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.