Podcasts about LSI

Send a textRandy Surles—retired Army Ranger and Green Beret turned editor, ghostwriter, and Story Grid-certified book coach—joins Joe to talk directly to veterans who feel called to tell their story but don't know where to start.After 25 years in Special Operations, Randy transitioned from the military to the writing world, studying under Shawn Coyne and helping dozens of veterans turn their experiences into memoirs, leadership books, and fiction. Along the way, he's seen what works—and what doesn't.Joe reflects on his own year-and-a-half journey working with Randy on his forthcoming book—including the uncomfortable but necessary process of clarifying the message, identifying the right reader, and moving beyond “I just want to write a book” to “Here's who this is for.”Randy explains why most military memoirs never gain traction, why writing “for everyone” is the fastest way to reach no one, and how to identify the single reader you're actually trying to serve. He also breaks down the realities of publishing—from traditional deals to hybrid models to self-publishing—and why marketing is often harder than writing.Watch the full interview on YouTube!Joe and Randy also discuss:How the Hero's Journey mirrors a military careerThe power of identifying your single audience member (SAM)Why most books sell fewer than 500 copiesWhat veterans misunderstand about traditional publishingThe truth about hybrid publishers and upfront costsWhy building an email list may matter more than social media followersHow writing 600–700 words a week can turn into a finished bookWhy accountability (even the annoying kind) makes the differenceWhether you're transitioning out, reflecting on your career, or feeling the quiet pull to capture your experiences before they fade, this episode offers a practical roadmap—and a reality check—for veterans who want to turn their story into something that serves others. Also, check out Randy's website: Militaryeditor.comA Special Thanks to Our Sponsors!Veteran-founded Adyton. Step into the next generation of equipment management with Log-E by Adyton. Whether you are doing monthly inventories or preparing for deployment, Log-E is your pocket property book, giving real-time visibility into equipment status and mission readiness. Learn more about how Log-E can revolutionize your property tracking process here!Meet ROGER Bank—a modern, digital bank built for military members, by military members. With early payday, no fees, high-yield accounts, and real support, it's banking that gets you. Funds are FDIC insured through Citizens Bank of Edmond, so you can bank with confidence and peace of mind. Logistics Systems Incorporated (LSI) is a Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business supporting DoD and federal civilian agencies with enterprise IT operations, global logistics support, cybersecurity, data, and mission support services. Founded by a veteran Army leader, LSI is known for operating inside complex, high-consequence environments where leadership, discipline, and execution matter. Their teams support large user communities and mission-critical systems across defense and civilian agencies.

Ever run your hand across pool coping and feel sandpaper? That texture tells a story about water that's either starving for calcium or dumping it everywhere. We take you inside the Langelier Saturation Index—the tool that predicts whether your water will corrode metal and etch plaster or lay down crunchy scale on tile, heaters, and salt cells—and show you how to control it with confidence.We start by anchoring the basics: calcium hardness sets the foundation, temperature shifts the baseline, and pH is your steering wheel. With live number walkthroughs, we show how a single quart of acid can flip a balanced pool into corrosive red, and how a high pH can nudge a system into scale even when everything “looks fine.” You'll learn practical target ranges for plaster, fiberglass, and vinyl; why at least 150 ppm calcium is non-negotiable; and how to use alkalinity as a buffer to keep pH moves predictable. We also unpack TDS and salt's quiet role in scale formation and why measuring them matters in real-world service.If you handle startups, you'll get a clear roadmap: set calcium early, keep alkalinity near 100 ppm, adjust pH in steps, and never add calcium chloride and soda ash or baking soda on the same day. We share field stories—from coral-like scale to rusted heat exchangers—that connect the dots between a drifting LSI and expensive repairs. Finally, we reset expectations: you don't need a perfect zero. Aim for a safe green zone that rides seasonal changes without tipping into damage.• why LSI predicts corrosion or scale• calcium hardness as the baseline for balance• temperature's impact on the index through seasons• using pH as the primary steering control• safe targets for plaster, vinyl, and fiberglass• live example calculations with app guidance• startup priorities and minimum calcium levels• alkalinity as a buffer and sweet spot near 100 ppm• the danger of adding calcium and alkali the same day• TDS and salt effects on scale risk• field stories of etched plaster and crusted coping• focus on rangSend a textSupport the Pool Guy Podcast Show Sponsors! HASA https://bit.ly/HASAThe Bottom Feeder. Save $100 with Code: DVB100https://store.thebottomfeeder.com/Try Skimmer FREE for 30 days:https://getskimmer.com/poolguy Get UPA Liability Insurance $64 a month! https://forms.gle/F9YoTWNQ8WnvT4QBAPool Guy Coaching: https://bit.ly/40wFE6y

Pool Pros text questions hereThis Friday episode digs into one of the most argued topics in pool care: range chemistry and the Langelier Saturation Index (LSI).Rudy takes us back to 1936 and the work of Wilfred F. Langelier, who developed a model to prevent municipal water pipes from dissolving or scaling shut. LSI was never designed for swimmers. It was built to answer one simple question:Will this water dissolve calcium carbonate… or deposit it?That's it.Pools adopted LSI later because plaster behaves like municipal concrete. Your pool is essentially a miniature water system — just with sunscreen and cannonballs.What LSI Does (and Doesn't Do)LSI predicts calcium carbonate equilibrium. It protects:PlasterGroutHeatersSalt cellsTile linesWhat it does not tell you:If chlorine is killing pathogens fast enoughIf chloramines are risingIf nitrification is occurringIf biofilm is formingIf oxidation demand is being metLSI protects the vessel. It does not guarantee sanitation.Where 7.2–7.8 Came FromNo single person invented the modern pH range. It evolved from the overlap of:Human physiology (comfort and irritation)Chlorine chemistry (HOCl vs OCl⁻ balance)Cement durability researchRegulatory standardsEven phenol red test kits influenced it — operators standardized what they could clearly see and control.The Cyanuric Acid Blind SpotIf you don't subtract roughly one-third of CYA from total alkalinity before calculating LSI, your saturation balance is wrong.And LSI does not account for chlorine kinetics at all.You can have:A perfect 0.00 LSIHigh CYASlower disinfectionRising combined chlorineBiofilm quietly developingThe plaster may be safe. The water may not be optimal.Salt Cells, Heaters & MicroenvironmentsLSI models bulk water.Inside salt cells and heaters, localized pH spikes can create scaling even when your overall LSI reads balanced. Context matters. Temperature matters. Ionic strength matters.Water chemistry is not binary — it's gradient-based.The Real TakeawayRange chemistry isn't stupid. It's probabilistic. It works under average conditions in average pools.The mistake is believing ranges are universal laws.LSI is necessary — but not sufficient. Balance is not a number. It's interaction between thermodynamics, kinetics, microbiology, and material science.Stop worshiping the calculator. Start managing the system. Support the showThank you so much for listening! You can find us on social media: Facebook Instagram Tik Tok Email us: talkingpools@gmail.com

Your pool isn't misbehaving—your targets are. We take you past vague “ideal ranges” and into precise numbers that keep water clear, equipment protected, and algae out for good. Starting with the seven essentials—pH, total alkalinity, calcium hardness, temperature, TDS, cyanuric acid, and measured chlorine—we explain how each parameter supports the others and how to prevent scale or corrosion using the Langelier Saturation Index. You'll hear why a steady pH of 7.5 and TA near 90 ppm form a stable base, how calcium should match your surface, and when TDS matters in both standard and saltwater pools.The real unlock is the chlorine–CYA relationship. If you've ever watched algae bloom at 10 ppm chlorine, the missing link is cyanuric acid. We lay out Bob Lowry's simplified approach: keep free chlorine at 7.5 percent of CYA for reliable sanitation, or 5 percent when borates are present. At 100 ppm CYA, that means aiming near 8 ppm FC; at 50 ppm CYA, about 4 ppm keeps water safer and clearer with less waste. Lowering CYA to around 50 makes daily control simpler, protects your budget, and avoids the trap of chasing “high” chlorine that still underperforms.We also dig into borates as a practical upgrade. At roughly 50 ppm, borates act as an algistat, slow pH drift, and enhance clarity so chlorine lasts longer and works smarter. Pair borates with disciplined targets and an LSI calculator like the Arenda app, and you'll stop reacting to blooms and start maintaining true balance. Whether you manage a service route or care for your own backyard pool, this walkthrough gives you a playbook: set firm targets, validate with LSI, align chlorine to CYA, and let borates shoulder the heavy lift against algae.• pH at 7.5 for comfort and control• Total alkalinity around 90 ppm to buffer pH• Calcium hardness tailored to surface type• Temperature and LSI to prevent scale or corrosion• CYA at about 50 ppm for effective chlorine• FC as 7.5 percent of CYA, or 5 percent with borates• Borates at 50 ppm as algistat and pH buffer• TDS as context, hSend a textSupport the Pool Guy Podcast Show Sponsors! HASA https://bit.ly/HASAThe Bottom Feeder. Save $100 with Code: DVB100https://store.thebottomfeeder.com/Try Skimmer FREE for 30 days:https://getskimmer.com/poolguy Get UPA Liability Insurance $64 a month! https://forms.gle/F9YoTWNQ8WnvT4QBAPool Guy Coaching: https://bit.ly/40wFE6y

This week on the pod Lauren Frost is back to get her prov on!Lauren does shows all over Chicago including the famous Wednesday night free show at iO with Birdlady and Dumb John. She also co-hosts one of the hottest spots to get your indie team up to play at Open Stage Thursdays at The Western Bar and Kitchen. Starting March 19 you can check her out with her duo Lerin and 3 Actors Living in a Cave during their Thursday night run at LSI. Her stand-up and characters were recently featured in The Lincoln Lodge's Future of Comedy Festival. She's got a big laugh, big glasses, and has taken all the improv classes. The very funny improviser and comedian, Lauren Frost.!⁠Join our Patreon ⁠for $5 a month for bonus eps, back log eps, and exclusive premium content!Hosts:Hosts: ⁠Damian Anaya⁠, ⁠Tim Lyons⁠Sound by Tim

LSI's own Josh Johnson discusses the difference between the RFP and the RFI, which is also known as "sources sought". He explains how to capitalize on the opportunity that an RFI presents and answers some common questions on the process here. Bottom line: is it worth your time to respond to an RFI?

What if your “quick shock” could bleach a liner, stain a step, or even trigger an explosive reaction in your feeder? We take a hard, practical look at calcium hypochlorite—cal hypo—and share how pros use it for powerful oxidation without piling on cyanuric acid. From real-world dosing to regional water chemistry, we map the choices that keep your pool clean and your surfaces safe.We start with clarity on strength: why 73 to 78 percent cal hypo nearly matches a gallon of 12.5 percent liquid chlorine by output, and when that field rule of thumb—one pound to one gallon—makes sense. Then we get into the must-know risks: never mix cal hypo with trichlor or dichlor, don't drop it on vinyl or colored fiberglass, and watch for copper-driven black stains on plaster when oxidation hits metals. You'll learn how much calcium cal hypo adds, why pH temporarily rises, and how to think about LSI and regional hardness whether you're in Southern California's high-calcium zones or softer-water parts of Florida and Texas.Because cal hypo is unstabilized chlorine, we set clear CYA targets—50 to 70 ppm—to protect it from UV burn-off. We compare cal hypo tablets to trichlor tabs, explain why they're not one-to-one replacements, and detail the flow and temperature realities that make tabs dissolve too fast in hot markets. You'll hear practical tactics: when to feed through the skimmer during a long run cycle, how to place broken tabs on stubborn algae in pebble or on step corners, and when to stage 25 or 50 pound buckets at the pad for easy, consistent care without hauling heavy jugs.• comparing cal hypo strength to 12.5 percent liquid chlorine• why mixing with trichlor or dichlor is dangerous• calcium increase, pH impact, and regional hardness• safe application by surface: vinyl, fiberglass, plaster, pebble• metals and black staining risk with strong oxidation• unstabilized chlorine strategy and ideal CYA levels• cal hypo tablets vs trichlor tablets, feeders, and heat effects• pro tips for algae on steps and in pebble crevices• stockSend a textSupport the Pool Guy Podcast Show Sponsors! HASA https://bit.ly/HASAThe Bottom Feeder. Save $100 with Code: DVB100https://store.thebottomfeeder.com/Try Skimmer FREE for 30 days:https://getskimmer.com/poolguy Get UPA Liability Insurance $64 a month! https://forms.gle/F9YoTWNQ8WnvT4QBAPool Guy Coaching: https://bit.ly/40wFE6y

Send a textDr. Guy Winch, bestselling author and psychologist, joins Joe to discuss his newest book, Mind Over Grind to explore how job stress quietly spills beyond the office—and into our evenings, our sleep, and our relationships.What starts as a difficult meeting or looming deadline doesn't end at 1700. It follows us home. From the “Sunday Scaries” to 2AM rumination loops, Guy explains how modern work keeps us stuck in fight-or-flight—and why we're often blind to the ways we sabotage our future selves in the process.Joe reflects on his time in command and the culture of constant availability in the military, while Guy highlights research showing that leaders have far more power to reduce stress than they realize. Sometimes it's not about solving the problem—just showing that you care.They also spend time on practical tools: reframing procrastination, managing rumination, cultivating a better relationship with your “future self,” and creating intentional rituals that signal the workday is over.Watch the full interview on YouTube!Joe and Guy also discuss:Why the dread of Monday is often worse than Monday itselfHow procrastination is really about avoiding feelings—not tasksThe danger of treating your future self like a strangerHow to stop replaying failures at 2AMThe “Memoir Test” for putting problems in perspectiveWhy naming your emotions reduces their intensityHow journaling helps you spot recurring “icebergs” in your lifeWhy Instagram reels don't actually relax youThe science behind clothing, rituals, and mental transitionsWhether you're in the military, the corporate world, or building something of your own, this episode is a reminder that stress doesn't stay at work—and that managing your inner world is part of leading well.A Special Thanks to Our Sponsors!Veteran-founded Adyton. Step into the next generation of equipment management with Log-E by Adyton. Whether you are doing monthly inventories or preparing for deployment, Log-E is your pocket property book, giving real-time visibility into equipment status and mission readiness. Learn more about how Log-E can revolutionize your property tracking process here!Meet ROGER Bank—a modern, digital bank built for military members, by military members. With early payday, no fees, high-yield accounts, and real support, it's banking that gets you. Funds are FDIC insured through Citizens Bank of Edmond, so you can bank with confidence and peace of mind. Logistics Systems Incorporated (LSI) is a Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business supporting DoD and federal civilian agencies with enterprise IT operations, global logistics support, cybersecurity, data, and mission support services. Founded by a veteran Army leader, LSI is known for operating inside complex, high-consequence environments where leadership, discipline, and execution matter. Their teams support large user communities and mission-critical systems across defense and civilian agencies.

Think evaporation lowers cyanuric acid? Think again. We open the cover on persistent pool myths with help from the late Bob Lowry's clear, data-driven explanations, and show how small assumptions can create big chemistry problems over a season.First, we break down why CYA never leaves with evaporation—only pure water does. That means every trichlor tablet quietly stacks CYA week after week, often hitting 100 to 150 ppm in a single swimming season. We compare sanitizer byproducts in plain terms: trichlor and dichlor raise CYA, liquid chlorine nudges TDS via salt, and cal hypo increases calcium. You'll hear practical numbers you can use on route, like how a gallon of liquid chlorine typically adds around 20 to 30 ppm salt depending on pool size, and how 65 percent cal hypo can add about 7 ppm calcium for every 10 ppm of free chlorine delivered.Then we shift to acids. Muriatic acid remains the straightforward choice for lowering pH and alkalinity without adding sulfate. Dry acid, while convenient, introduces sulfate that can accumulate and lead to calcium sulfate scale—harder to remove than calcium carbonate and invisible to the LSI you rely on. We also cover why dry acid needs airtight storage due to deliquescence, how to approach dosing when total alkalinity runs high, and why older warnings about dry acid and salt systems don't reflect current understanding, even if they persist in some manuals.By the end, you'll know how to choose the chlorine and acid strategy that fits your climate, hardness, and maintenance plan. • evaporation removes only pure water, not CYA• trichlor adds 6 ppm CYA per 10 ppm chlorine• CYA rises 25 ppm per month at common usage• water loss from draining or splash removes CYA• liquid chlorine adds modest salt and TDS• all chlorine types end as part of TDS• cal hypo adds about 7 ppm calcium per 10 ppm FC• dry acid introduces sulfate and hidden scale risk• calcium sulfate scale does not show on LSI• dry acid is deliquescent and needs tight storage• high alkalinity often nSend a textSupport the Pool Guy Podcast Show Sponsors! HASA https://bit.ly/HASAThe Bottom Feeder. Save $100 with Code: DVB100https://store.thebottomfeeder.com/Try Skimmer FREE for 30 days:https://getskimmer.com/poolguy Get UPA Liability Insurance $64 a month! https://forms.gle/F9YoTWNQ8WnvT4QBAPool Guy Coaching: https://bit.ly/40wFE6y

The best pool chemistry advice is the kind you can use on your next route. We sit down with Terry Arco to share how Bob Lowry's teachings are being refined into fast, field-ready training for residential service pros, plus a major update to the IPSA manuals that shaped a generation of technicians. If you've ever held chlorine at 3 ppm and still fought algae, or watched CYA granules sit on the floor in cold water, this walkthrough connects the dots between LSI, stabilizer, and free chlorine in a way that saves time and reduces callbacks.Terry explains how a six-hour class became a tight, high-impact course based on Lowry's 26-page Pool Chemistry for Service Pros. We unpack the three recurring challenges on most routes—water balance swings, misunderstood CYA behavior, and persistent algae despite “right” chlorine levels—and show how to solve them with clear targets and better testing. Expect actionable tips on managing LSI to avoid scale and corrosion, setting free chlorine relative to CYA and sunlight, and using aeration demos to see pH dynamics in real time.We also highlight HASA's stewardship of Bob's work, including updated IPSA training manuals and a Spanish edition in progress, while honoring the way Bob bridged lab smarts with backyard realities. From liquid pool conditioner to phone calls returned, his legacy is practical chemistry that respects the craft and the clock. The 2026 schedule brings these condensed courses to major shows and regional events nationwide, so you can level up without losing a day on the route.• Abridged course drawn from Pool Chemistry for Service Pros• Focus on LSI for scale and corrosion control• Practical CYA management tied to sunlight and chlorine strength• Rethinking fixed free chlorine targets to prevent algae• Demonstrations on aeration and pH behavior• HASA stewardship of Bob Lowry copyrights• IPSA manuals updated and Spanish versions in development• 2026 training at Western, Southwest, Florida, Arizona, and Fresno eventsSend us a textSupport the Pool Guy Podcast Show Sponsors! HASA https://bit.ly/HASAThe Bottom Feeder. Save $100 with Code: DVB100https://store.thebottomfeeder.com/Try Skimmer FREE for 30 days:https://getskimmer.com/poolguy Get UPA Liability Insurance $64 a month! https://forms.gle/F9YoTWNQ8WnvT4QBAPool Guy Coaching: https://bit.ly/40wFE6y

Send us a textGriffin Brand and Dan Casey, co-authors of Bring Your Own Pencil: Bill Walsh's Playbook for Winning at Anything, join Joe to explore preparation, leadership, and what separates sustained excellence from short-term success.It's Super Bowl weekend, so football is part of the lens—but it doesn't stay there. The discussion moves from Bill Walsh and the San Francisco 49ers to Dyson vacuums, Raising Cane's chicken fingers, JSOC, and even 50 Cent. Different worlds, same underlying question: why do some people and organizations endure while others flame out?At the center is a simple idea: success is a lagging indicator. Drawing on Walsh's leadership philosophy, Griffin and Dan explain why outcomes take care of themselves when leaders focus on standards, habits, and ownership of preparation—long before performance is visible.From there, the episode broadens into leadership more generally: perseverance, the myth of overnight success, and how constraints can sharpen thinking instead of limiting it. A key theme is the idea of a permanent base camp—maintaining standards that keep teams within striking distance of excellence without burning them out.They also spend time on legacy. Not wins or titles, but people. The episode reinforces a simple measure of leadership: how many people succeed because you took the time to invest in them.Watch the full interview on YouTube!Joe, Griffin, and Dan also discuss: What “bring your own pencil” really means for leaders Alive time vs. dead time  How the path to the top is rarely a straight line How to sustain excellence without burning people or culture Why inputs matter more than outcomes How culture becomes real when it carries itself forward What legacy looks like when leaders step back Why the best leaders make their ceiling someone else's floorWhether you're watching the Super Bowl or leading a team far from the spotlight, this episode is a reminder that the work that matters most usually happens long before anyone is watching.A Special Thanks to Our Sponsors!Veteran-founded Adyton. Step into the next generation of equipment management with Log-E by Adyton. Whether you are doing monthly inventories or preparing for deployment, Log-E is your pocket property book, giving real-time visibility into equipment status and mission readiness. Learn more about how Log-E can revolutionize your property tracking process here!Meet ROGER Bank—a modern, digital bank built for military members, by military members. With early payday, no fees, high-yield accounts, and real support, it's banking that gets you. Funds are FDIC insured through Citizens Bank of Edmond, so you can bank with confidence and peace of mind. Logistics Systems Incorporated (LSI) is a Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business supporting DoD and federal civilian agencies with enterprise IT operations, global logistics support, cybersecurity, data, and mission support services. Founded by a veteran Army leader, LSI is known for operating inside complex, high-consequence environments where leadership, discipline, and execution matter. Their teams support large user communities and mission-critical systems across defense and civilian agencies.

Your pool test is only as good as the tool you choose—and the eyes reading it. We dive straight into the real-world trade-offs between test strips, reagent kits, and photometers, showing where “good enough” saves time and where precision protects plaster, budgets, and your reputation. You'll hear how modern strips have improved, why big manufacturers now back them, and the simple reason human color matching still introduces error.We walk through the key differences between ranges and exact numbers, using practical examples for chlorine, pH, and alkalinity. For everyday backyard pools, getting into the right band is often all you need to maintain clarity and comfort. For new plaster startups, commercial compliance, or tricky water, exact numbers matter—so we explain when to reach for a photometer like the LaMotte ColorQ or SpinTouch and how to weave precision checks into a weekly route without crushing your schedule.Troubleshooting gets a spotlight. If chlorine keeps vanishing or algae won't quit, phosphate and nitrate strips can surface hidden issues fast and point you toward the right fix. We also break down brand choices—AquaChek for easy readouts, LaMotte for range and pairing with meters, Taylor for consistency—and share tips on storage, reading technique, and smart timing. By the end, you'll have a simple framework: use strips for speed and trend-checking, confirm with a photometer when stakes are high, and keep your workflow lean while your water stays dialed in.If this helped sharpen your testing strategy, follow the show, share it with a fellow pool pro, and leave a quick review so others can find it. Got a testing hack or tool you swear by? Tell us and join the conversation.• modern strip accuracy and human color limits• ranges versus exact numbers for routine care• when precision matters for LSI and compliance• photometers as the gold standard for accuracy• workflow: weekly strips with monthly precision checks• problem-solving with phosphate and nitrate strips• brand comfort: AquaChek, LaMotte, TaySend us a textSupport the Pool Guy Podcast Show Sponsors! HASA https://bit.ly/HASAThe Bottom Feeder. Save $100 with Code: DVB100https://store.thebottomfeeder.com/Try Skimmer FREE for 30 days:https://getskimmer.com/poolguy Get UPA Liability Insurance $64 a month! https://forms.gle/F9YoTWNQ8WnvT4QBAPool Guy Coaching: https://bit.ly/40wFE6y

Send us a textLieutenant General Tony Hale, the Army G-2, joins Joe for a conversation on military intelligence, judgment, and decision-making in modern war. Drawing on nearly four decades of service, Hale reflects on the evolution of the intelligence profession—from red pens and acetate maps to AI-enabled platforms—and why human judgment still matters most.Hale shares his path into military intelligence, challenges common misconceptions about the field, and explains why intelligence is foundational to maneuver, lethality, and command. From battalion S2 shops to JSOC, Afghanistan, and the Army's highest intelligence roles, he offers a clear view of how intelligence professionals shape outcomes across every echelon.They discuss the responsibility of “putting your rank on the table,” developing junior analysts, and creating environments where ideas matter more than hierarchy. The conversation also explores self-development, operating amid disinformation, balancing OSINT with historical context, and how AI can enhance—but never replace— disciplined thinking.In this episode, LTG Hale and Joe explore:Why “lethality starts with intelligence”The role of intelligence in enabling decision dominanceMaking analytical calls under uncertaintyDeveloping confident, capable intelligence professionalsThe limits of AI and the enduring value of human judgmentPreparing for future conflict while mastering the fundamentalsWhether you're an intelligence professional, commander, or leader navigating uncertainty, this conversation is a reminder that seeing clearly—and thinking well—remains the decisive advantage.A Special Thanks to Our Sponsors!Veteran-founded Adyton. Step into the next generation of equipment management with Log-E by Adyton. Whether you are doing monthly inventories or preparing for deployment, Log-E is your pocket property book, giving real-time visibility into equipment status and mission readiness. Learn more about how Log-E can revolutionize your property tracking process here!Meet ROGER Bank—a modern, digital bank built for military members, by military members. With early payday, no fees, high-yield accounts, and real support, it's banking that gets you. Funds are FDIC insured through Citizens Bank of Edmond, so you can bank with confidence and peace of mind. Logistics Systems Incorporated (LSI) is a Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business supporting DoD and federal civilian agencies with enterprise IT operations, global logistics support, cybersecurity, data, and mission support services. Founded by a veteran Army leader, LSI is known for operating inside complex, high-consequence environments where leadership, discipline, and execution matter. Their teams support large user communities and mission-critical systems across defense and civilian agencies.

Tired of white dust on your dark pebble finish, shredded filter media, or the stress of a sudden cold snap? We dig into the practical, money-saving tactics that keep pools clear and equipment safe, backed by decades in the field and feedback from real service routes. You'll hear exactly why pressure washers and cartridge filters don't mix, plus the simple nozzle upgrade that speeds cleaning without wrecking pleats.We unpack calcium scale on pebble interiors with a plan you can actually use: manage the LSI slightly on the corrosive side to limit scale formation, lean on the Orenda app to get the math right, and use a sequestrant like EasyCare Butech for added protection during new-surface break-in. When deposits set hard, we explain why acid washes disappoint and why professional media blasting is the dependable reset—along with realistic costs so clients aren't blindsided.Cold weather throws another curveball. Freeze protect typically kicks on around 37 degrees and can run pumps for days without harm, but power outages are the real danger. We share a simple emergency checklist—from opening drain plugs to pulling salt cells—and why a standby generator is the best insurance in deep freezes. We also spotlight a patent-pending cartridge assembly for the Bottom Feeder and Shrimp vacs that captures 20-micron debris, transforming fine-dirt cleanups. To cap it off, we clarify how to get the most from suction-side cleaners: leave them in, let variable speed schedules do the work, and avoid hose memory by storing lines straight during parties.• why pressure washers damage cartridge filters and safer nozzle options• how LSI management reduces scale on dark pebble finishes• when to use sequestrants and when blasting is the only fix• realistic costs and cadence for bead blasting pebble interiors• how freeze protect works and what to do during power outages• a cartridge add-on that lets portable vacs capture fine dirt• best practices for leaving suction cleaners in and scheduling run timeJoin the pool guy coaching progSend us a textSupport the Pool Guy Podcast Show Sponsors! HASA https://bit.ly/HASAThe Bottom Feeder. Save $100 with Code: DVB100https://store.thebottomfeeder.com/Try Skimmer FREE for 30 days:https://getskimmer.com/poolguy Get UPA Liability Insurance $64 a month! https://forms.gle/F9YoTWNQ8WnvT4QBAPool Guy Coaching: https://bit.ly/40wFE6y

Send us a textOn the release of his latest thriller, The Viper: A Zig and Nola Novel, Brad Meltzer joins Joe for an in-depth conversation on writing, curiosity, service, and the often-hidden moments that shape a life. From bestselling thrillers to children's books, Meltzer reflects on how stories—both real and imagined—help us make sense of who we are, what we've lived through, and the paths we choose moving forward.Drawing on his own unlikely origin story, Meltzer shares how a single teacher's encouragement set him on the path to becoming a writer, why falling in love with the process matters more than chasing outcomes, and how curiosity has been the throughline of his career. They explore how paying attention—to people, details, and quiet acts of kindness—can open doors we didn't even know existed.The conversation also dives into Meltzer's deep connection to the military community, from his work with the USO to the research behind his Zig and Nola thriller series set at Dover Air Force Base. Together, Joe and Brad discuss service, sacrifice, grief, and why storytelling can help destigmatize mental health struggles—especially for those transitioning out of uniform.In this episode, Brad Meltzer and Joe also explore:How one teacher's belief can change the trajectory of a lifeWhy curiosity is a more powerful tool than talentFalling in love with the process—not the outcome—of creative workWhat writing thrillers has taught Meltzer about human natureWhy Dover Air Force Base became the heart of his Zig and Nola seriesHow small acts of kindness ripple outward in unexpected waysThe challenge of transitioning from a life of constant motion to stillnessWhy seeking help is a sign of strength, not weaknessHow reading builds empathy, critical thinking, and resilienceWhy transformation is the hardest, and most important, kind of changeWhether you're a writer, a leader, a veteran, or someone navigating a transition, this conversation is a reminder that paying attention, staying curious, and honoring the quiet work of becoming can lead to a life richer than any plan you could have written in advance.Watch the full episode on Youtube! A Special Thanks to Our Sponsors!Veteran-founded Adyton. Step into the next generation of equipment management with Log-E by Adyton. Whether you are doing monthly inventories or preparing for deployment, Log-E is your pocket property book, giving real-time visibility into equipment status and mission readiness. Learn more about how Log-E can revolutionize your property tracking process here!Meet ROGER Bank—a modern, digital bank built for military members, by military members. With early payday, no fees, high-yield accounts, and real support, it's banking that gets you. Funds are FDIC insured through Citizens Bank of Edmond, so you can bank with confidence and peace of mind. Logistics Systems Incorporated (LSI) is a Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business supporting DoD and federal civilian agencies with enterprise IT operations, global logistics support, cybersecurity, data, and mission support services. Founded by a veteran Army leader, LSI is known for operating inside complex, high-consequence environments where leadership, discipline, and execution matter. Their teams support large user communities and mis

Forget the old rule that outdoor pools must live at 7.4 pH. We dig into why cyanuric acid, not pH, is the dominant force behind chlorine strength in the sun, and how reframing your strategy around the FC-to-CYA ratio can reduce algae, cut costs, and protect your surfaces. With insights from industry committee work and modeling, we explain why a 20:1 CYA-to-free chlorine ceiling matters, why 30–50 ppm CYA often hits the sweet spot, and how to choose targets that keep chlorine working without drifting into overstabilized territory.We also tackle a costly habit: aggressive acid dosing. Most techs are using far more acid than needed to move from 8.0 to 7.5, and that overcorrection hammers the Langelier Saturation Index, etches plaster, and invites oxidation. We walk through accurate acid calculations, the importance of pre-dilution, and circulation techniques that avoid “acid plunges” to the floor. Along the way, we separate the roles of pH and alkalinity, show how alkalinity drives acid demand, and spotlight calcium hardness as the quiet anchor that stabilizes LSI so your system doesn't whiplash week to week.Finally, we compare outdoor and indoor realities. Without CYA, indoor pools follow the classic rule where pH directly sets chlorine strength. Outdoors, stabilizer changes the game—so stop chasing numbers that don't deliver. The payoff is fewer algae battles, stronger sanitation, and longer-lasting surfaces through a measured, data-first approach. If this perspective helps, subscribe, share the show with a colleague, and leave a quick review so more pros can rethink their chemistry playbook.• Why eye pH claims mislead• How CYA binds chlorine and alters strength• The 20:1 CYA-to-free chlorine ceiling• Targeting 30–50 ppm CYA for balance• Acid overuse, LSI crashes, and surface damage• Pre-diluting acid and correct dosing amounts• Alkalinity as buffer and its components• Calcium hardness as the quiet LSI anchor• Indoor pools without CYA follow classic pH rules• Why pH “bounce” often comes from bad aciSend us a textSupport the Pool Guy Podcast Show Sponsors! HASA https://bit.ly/HASAThe Bottom Feeder. Save $100 with Code: DVB100https://store.thebottomfeeder.com/Try Skimmer FREE for 30 days:https://getskimmer.com/poolguy Get UPA Liability Insurance $64 a month! https://forms.gle/F9YoTWNQ8WnvT4QBAPool Guy Coaching: https://bit.ly/40wFE6y

Most pool pros have heard it for years: lower the pH to make chlorine stronger. That's true in non-stabilized water, but once cyanuric acid enters the picture, the rules change. We sit down with Eric Knight to unpack why the FC-to-CYA ratio, not pH, governs chlorine's effective strength in outdoor pools—and how that insight can save you time, money, and a lot of acid.We break down the chemistry in plain language. You'll hear how chlorine splits into hypochlorous acid and hypochlorite ion, why that balance matters indoors, and how CYA binds most chlorine outdoors to form isocyanurates. With typical CYA levels, the effective kill speed stays nearly the same between pH 7.0 and 8.0, which means chasing an ultra-low pH for “stronger chlorine” is a dead end. Instead, use pH to manage balance on the Langelier Saturation Index, contain its rise with smart alkalinity and calcium hardness, and aim for a CYA level that keeps your free chlorine target achievable.We also talk real-world strategy: the pitfalls of overstabilization, how high CYA inflates contact times, and why partial drains are sometimes the only fix. To sharpen your program, support chlorine with enzymes to trim oxidant demand, control phosphates to lower growth pressure, and consider secondary oxidation where it fits. The goal is a stable chain: CYA in range, free chlorine matched to that CYA, pH contained for LSI, and demand reduced so sanitizer can do its job.• FC-to-CYA ratio as the primary driver of chlorine effectiveness in outdoor pools• Why pH control matters for LSI balance more than sanitization with CYA present• The equilibrium of HOCl and OCl− in non-stabilized water contrasted with CYA-bound chlorine• Practical CYA ranges and why levels above 50 ppm complicate free chlorine targets• Overstabilization risks, longer contact times, and when to drain and dilute• Using enzymes, phosphate control, and secondary oxidizers to reduce oxidant demand• Containing pH with LSI strategy instead of forcing low numbers that rebound• Clear differences between saSend us a textSupport the Pool Guy Podcast Show Sponsors! HASA https://bit.ly/HASAThe Bottom Feeder. Save $100 with Code: DVB100https://store.thebottomfeeder.com/Try Skimmer FREE for 30 days:https://getskimmer.com/poolguy Get UPA Liability Insurance $64 a month! https://forms.gle/F9YoTWNQ8WnvT4QBAPool Guy Coaching: https://bit.ly/40wFE6y

[00:00] - Intro[00:33] - Pool industry lifers[07:25] - How pools are winterized in the Northeast[11:51] - How cold is too cold to plaster?[16:50] - Calcium chloride in the plaster mix[22:06] - Freeze damage protection[27:40] - Dilution's impact on the LSI during the winter[33:51] - Testing fill water, and smart winterizing[36:10] - Company culture of learning[45:21] - Scale vs. calcium crystals[52:50] - Accountability[1:00:40] - Water and air physics[1:10:38] - Closing ______________________________Connect with us! Realize your full potential.Watershape University®Water chemistry questions?Orenda®Questions? Comments? Or apply to sponsor the show:ruleyourpool@gmail.com Facebook: @ruleyourpoolYouTube: @rule-your-pool

Pool Pros text questions hereIn this conversation, Paulette and Andrea discuss their recent hiatus due to personal losses and the challenges faced in pool maintenance. They delve into the importance of understanding the Langelier Saturation Index (LSI) and its role in water chemistry, emphasizing the need for proper water balance to prevent issues like scaling and corrosion. The discussion also covers practical tips for maintaining pools, particularly in relation to salt systems and common misconceptions about water chemistry.takeawaysThe recent hiatus was due to personal losses.Understanding LSI is crucial for pool maintenance.Proper water balance enhances disinfection and swimmer comfort.Calcium hardness and total hardness are different measurements.Salt systems can contribute to scaling issues in pools.Regular testing of water chemistry is essential for pool care.Cyanuric acid affects total alkalinity calculations.Temperature impacts water chemistry and LSI.Maintaining a balanced LSI prevents corrosion and scaling.Communication with clients about pool care is vital.Sound Bites"We had a lot going on.""It was really super sudden.""I had no one had taught me it."Chapters00:00Introduction and Personal Updates02:40Dealing with Loss and Challenges11:44Understanding LSI and Water Balance14:40Importance of Proper Water Chemistry17:30Exploring Calcium and Stabilizer Levels19:31The Langelier Saturation Index Explained22:07Practical Applications of LSI in Pool Maintenance32:19Understanding Pool Chemistry and Its Impact35:05The Importance of the LSI in Pool Maintenance38:11Navigating Alkalinity and Acid Adjustments41:21Total Dissolved Solids: Myths and Realities43:24Calculating the LSI: Tools and Techniques46:46Challenges with Salt Pools and Scaling Issues54:32Final Thoughts and Future Directions Support the showThank you so much for listening! You can find us on social media: Facebook Instagram Tik Tok Email us: talkingpools@gmail.com

Algae pressure, drifting pH, and vanishing chlorine can make pool care feel like a tug of war. We sat down with renowned chemist and educator Bob Lowry to map out a cleaner, calmer path: use borates the right way, match your CYA to your chlorine needs, and stop fighting the water. The conversation cuts through marketing myths to show why boric acid at 50 ppm stabilizes pH and supports sanitizer performance without turning your maintenance plan upside down.We start by reframing borates as a tool, not a cure-all. Bob explains the simple pairing that drives clarity: free chlorine maintained at about 5 percent of CYA with a minimum of 2 ppm. For most outdoor pools, that points to 40–50 ppm CYA; for salt water chlorine generators, 70 ppm often works better because it protects fresh chlorine produced at the cell and near the sunlit surface. Expect steadier weeks with fewer spikes, not a set-and-forget miracle.Product choice matters. Boric acid barely changes pH or alkalinity, while borax-based products can push pH near 9 and add roughly 115 ppm to total alkalinity, demanding large acid corrections and risking scale if calcium is high. Bob details how pre-balancing and LSI awareness prevent cloudy water, plus practical dosing math and the limited but workable testing options. Field experience and historical research converge on 50 ppm as the effective algaestat level, with 70 ppm a smart ceiling for SWGs seeking extra stability and clarity.If you want water that holds its balance, sparkles in the sun, and uses chlorine more efficiently, this guide lays out the steps: choose boric acid, set CYA with intent, maintain a real chlorine residual, and top off borates only when water leaves the pool. • borates as a pH buffer and algaestat at 50 ppm• chlorine set at 5% of CYA with a 2 ppm floor• CYA targets of 40–50 ppm and 70 ppm for SWGs• boric acid vs borax forms and acid demand• LSI risks when TA, CH and pH run high• dosing math and maintenance dosing over seasons• limited testing options and practical workarounds•Send us a textSupport the Pool Guy Podcast Show Sponsors! HASA https://bit.ly/HASAThe Bottom Feeder. Save $100 with Code: DVB100https://store.thebottomfeeder.com/Try Skimmer FREE for 30 days:https://getskimmer.com/poolguy Get UPA Liability Insurance $64 a month! https://forms.gle/F9YoTWNQ8WnvT4QBAPool Guy Coaching: https://bit.ly/40wFE6y

This week on the pod we have the return of good friend Kyle Bethea and making his pod debut, local Chicago improv titan Bill Arnett joins us to chat'n'prov about your first sip of beer, alpha dogs, Hannibalesque bears and more!Listen to Bill on his own podcast MPZ Listening PartyFollow 3 Actors Living in a Cave for updates on live shows!Come see Tim and Damian do it LIVE this Saturday December 20th at LSI with Dina Facklis and Abby McEnany

Welcome back to Behind the win, as we close out the year Sarah takes a moment to reflect on some of the incredible wins we've seen in 2025. This is our year in review episode, our chance to highlight a few of our favorite lessons from guests, moments with the LSI team, and the things that made this year one to remember.

Pool Pros text questions hereRudy does something different this week: he takes the Langelier Saturation Index (LSI) out of the pool industry echo chamber and walks it through the lens of academics, civil engineers, groundwater chemists, and industrial water experts who don't care about plaster warranties, brand marketing, or trade show politics.If you've ever argued about “which LSI is right” in a Facebook group, this one is for you.Episode OverviewRudy kicks off with a news analogy: How the same event looks completely different on U.S. news versus international coverage. Same facts, different framing.He uses that setup to shift how we look at LSI:We already know the pool industry story about LSI: PHTA charts, app calculators, Orenda talks, trade folklore.But this episode asks: “What does the scientific community think about LSI when they're not talking to pool people at all?”Rudy dives into how universities and researchers actually use and define LSI in research on:GroundwaterDrinking water stabilityIndustrial cooling systemsDesalination plantsBoiler operationsCement leachingEnvironmental engineeringKey Concepts Covered1. LSI as the Outside World Sees ItAcademics consistently define LSI = pH − pHs, where pHs is the calculated saturation pH, not something you measure with a test kit.pHs is derived from:Calcium hardnessCarbonate alkalinityIonic strength (modeled via TDS / activity coefficients)TemperatureLSI is treated as a thermodynamic index:It shows which direction water wants to move with respect to calcium carbonate.It does not tell you how fast scale forms, how thick it gets, or how quickly surfaces dissolve.2. What Negative, Zero, and Positive LSI Actually Mean (Academically)Negative LSIWater is under-saturated in calcium carbonate.It is capable of dissolving calcium carbonate if given the chance.Researchers call it “aggressive” or “decalcifying” water—but they do not say it guarantees corrosion.LSI ≈ 0Theoretical equilibrium with calcium carbonate.In the real world, systems almost never sit at perfect equilibrium because of flow, aeration, dosing, and turbulence.Positive LSIWater is supersaturat AquaStar Pool ProductsThe Global Leader in Safety, Dependability, & Innovation in Pool Technology.POOL MAGAZINE Pool Magazine is leading up to the minute news source for Swimming Pool News and Pool Features. OuBLUERAY XLThe real mineral purifier! Reduce your pool maintenance costs & efforts by 50%Jack's MagicIf you know Jack's you'd have no stains!Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the showThank you so much for listening! You can find us on social media: Facebook Instagram Tik Tok Email us: talkingpools@gmail.com

Josh Miller and Christopher Antunes, Co-Founders and co-CEOs of 3Play Media, join SlatorPod to talk about the company's trajectory as a leading language solutions integrator (LSI) in multilingual video accessibility.The duo explains how the two met at MIT, where an early challenge from OpenCourseWare revealed that captioning thousands of technical videos was financially impossible, leading to the company's founding, where they developed proprietary tooling, leveraged AI, and incorporated expert-in-the-loop solutions.Josh describes how their platform evolved into a dual system supporting both customers and large-scale operations. Chris notes that the LSI now serves media and entertainment, higher education, e-learning, and corporate clients.Chris explains that three major trends — the European Accessibility Act (EAA), advancements in voice technology, and the rise of live events — drove their expansion into global localization. The co-CEOs detail their dubbing journey, noting rapid learning over the last 18 months and the emergence of a big mid-tier market between high-end theatrical dubbing and low-cost AI-only output.Josh explains how the EAA is pushing companies to prepare for large columns of multilingual captioning and audio description. He notes that interpretations of the law still vary, but major media firms are already investing to avoid disruption. The duo shares findings from their 2025 State of ASR Report, where they found that accuracy initially improved sharply with generative models but has now plateaued.Looking to the future, the co-CEOs are working on shifting their model to incorporate AI-generated scores and analytics, allowing customers to decide on the level of expert intervention.

This week on the pod we welcome back Andrew Lemna and Devin Henderson to chat'n'prov about Black Friday deals, Friendsgivings, and giving the perfect gift to your nieces and nephews that won't drive your siblings insane. Sound Design by Nick McMillinCheck out the Family at LSI this Friday at 10 pmFUDGE and FRIENDS December 20th⁠Join our Patreon ⁠for $5 a month for bonus eps, back log eps, and exclusive premium content!Hosts:Hosts: ⁠Damian Anaya⁠, ⁠Tim Lyons⁠

A runaway hose, a rooftop spa, and a driveway that cost $90,000 to fix—small choices can turn a routine stop into a six-figure claim. We dive into the three risks that quietly drain profits for pool professionals: water damage, chemical spills, and water chemistry mistakes. Along the way, we share hard-earned stories and the simple, repeatable habits that keep clients happy, claims rare, and premiums steady.We break down why adding water seems helpful but often backfires, especially on elevated pools where gravity turns overflows into mudslides and property losses. You'll learn when to say no, how to reset expectations with homeowners, and why a straightforward “no fill” policy protects both your route and your reputation. For draining, we walk through practical risk controls—drain waivers, documented owner instructions, city code checks, and a named person assigned to shut pumps off—so you're never guessing eight stories up.Sign up for UPA Insurance here:https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfRQjHJGFLIOqZVzHm4_PNUz8Tokl_InR0wjyp5ahO93h3Z0Q/viewform?usp=send_formIf you want fewer claims and better retention, this is your playbook for risk management that actually fits a busy route: tighter habits, smarter paperwork, and a culture that screens for pros who care. Subscribe for more practical insights, share this with a fellow pool tech who needs it, and leave a quick review to help others find the show.• water damage as the top loss driver• overflow stories from elevated pools and rooftop spas• drain waivers and shifting responsibility to owners• city code differences and discharge pitfalls• chemical spill risks on stained and stamped concrete• the $90k driveway claim and truck policies• slowing down on pristine properties and using containment• water chemistry management and LSI discipline• documentation for warranties and claim defense• how screening and education keep rates flat• ways to join chapters or enroll virtually for coverageSend us a textSupport the Pool Guy Podcast Show Sponsors! HASA https://bit.ly/HASAThe Bottom Feeder. Save $100 with Code: DVB100https://store.thebottomfeeder.com/Try Skimmer FREE for 30 days:https://getskimmer.com/poolguy Get UPA Liability Insurance $64 a month! https://forms.gle/F9YoTWNQ8WnvT4QBAPool Guy Coaching: https://bit.ly/40wFE6y

Welcome back to Behind the Win. Today, we're doing something a little different. We're flipping the script. I'm Kevin Jacobson, Director of Administration here at LSI, and Sarah's assistant. And instead of Sarah hosting, I'll be putting her in the hot seat. Sarah is our president and CEO, the force behind this podcast, and today, we're going to get to learn more about her story, her leadership, and what really goes into Behind the Win.

Pool Pros text questions hereRudy dives headfirst into cyanuric acid — CYA, stabilizer, conditioner — the most misquoted, weaponized, and argued-about chemical in the pool industry. He breaks down what the science actually says about HOCl in stabilized water, why that old HOCl / OCl⁻ chart belongs in a museum, how CYA really impacts ORP, TA, and LSI, and why “chlorine lock” is less supernatural curse and more “you nuked the stabilizer and fed the biofilm.”Between the chemistry deep dive, Rudy hits the global pool-industry newswire: PHTA's APSP-11 rewrite, bromate and sodium bromide drama, media consolidation across major trade mags, massive international trade show attendance, European trends in energy-efficient builds, Australian code delays, and South American market movement. If you're running a pool business in 2025, this episode hits both your test kit and your bottom line.In This EpisodeCYA: Not the Villain, Not the Hero, Just Misunderstood Why cyanuric acid became “chlorine's sunscreen,” how chlorinated cyanurates actually work, and why CYA got popular in the first place — because it works, not because a committee was bored in the '60s.Why the Classic HOCl Chart is Garbage in Stabilized Pools Real HOCl Percentages at Common CYA Levels Copper Cyanurate Stains & “Prom Night Blue” Plaster CYA, Total Alkalinity & LSI: The Secret Sabotage ORP Suppression & Why Stabilized Pools Read “Low” Chlorine Lock is a Myth The Holy Sh*t Zone: CYA at 300 ppm and Up Alum Method to Lower CYA – How to Do It Right Fecal Incidents, CYA, and the Law (CDC Crypto Protocols) Does CYA Really Buffer pH? The Honest Answer Best-Practice CYA Targets Global Trade Magazine News RoundupRudy also runs through the week's biggest stories from around the world:PHTA's APSP-11 Water Quality Standard Rewrite Record Global Attendance at the 2025 PSP/Deck Expo in Vegas Pool & Spa News – Top 50 Service Survey AQUA Magazine's 50th Anniversary Preview Service Industry News – United Chemical Bromate Study Kenilworth Media's Big Acquisition Move EuroSpaPoolNews – Barcelona & Germany Specials SPLASH! Magazine – NCC 2025 Delay in Australia Brazil – Revista da Piscina & Pool Life  Support the showThank you so much for listening! You can find us on social media: Facebook Instagram Tik Tok Email us: talkingpools@gmail.com

Algae keeps coming back even when your test reads “plenty of chlorine”? Here's the missing piece: cyanuric acid quietly ties up most of your free chlorine, leaving only a small slice as active HOCl. We dig into the real chemistry behind clear water, then translate the math into one simple rule you can use on every stop.We walk through the practical percentage target that actually prevents algae: set free chlorine to 7.5% of your CYA, or drop that target to 5% when you run borates at 50 ppm. You'll hear why pools with 150–200 ppm CYA can still turn green at 6 ppm FC, how pH shifts HOCl to weaker OCl−, and why weekly shock isn't a strategy. If you've ever fought a trichlor-heavy pool through summer and wondered why “within range” fails, this conversation gives you the framework to fix it.We also unpack LSI fundamentals to predict scale and corrosion, then explain why balance on paper isn't enough if the pool won't stay put between visits. Targets beat broad ranges: tune alkalinity to control pH rise, maintain appropriate calcium hardness, and let borates smooth pH swings so sanitizer stays effective. By focusing on stable set points instead of chasing numbers, you protect plaster and equipment, reduce callbacks, and keep water reliably clear.• CYA binding lowers active chlorine and HOCl• The 7.5% of CYA free chlorine rule• Borates at 50 ppm reduce the FC target to 5%• High CYA pools need higher FC despite “good” tests• LSI as a prediction tool, not a cure-all• Targets for stability versus chasing ranges• Balance that holds week to week, not just on paperAre you a pool service pro looking to take your business to the next level? Join the Pool Guy Coaching Program. Get expert advice, business tips, exclusive content, and get direct support from me. Learn more at swimmingpoollearning.comThe Pool Guy Podcast Show is teamed up with UPA to bring you affordable, reliable liability insurance starting at just $64 a month. Sign up with UPA today by clicking the link in the podcast descriptionSend us a textSupport the Pool Guy Podcast Show Sponsors! HASA https://bit.ly/HASAThe Bottom Feeder. Save $100 with Code: DVB100https://store.thebottomfeeder.com/Try Skimmer FREE for 30 days:https://getskimmer.com/poolguy Get UPA Liability Insurance $64 a month! https://forms.gle/F9YoTWNQ8WnvT4QBAPool Guy Coaching: https://bit.ly/40wFE6y

Cold water changes everything. As temperatures slide, algae take a back seat, chlorine demand dips, and the Langelier Saturation Index tilts toward corrosive—quiet shifts that can quietly chew through plaster and equipment if you are not paying attention. We sit down with industry legend Bob Lowry to map a simple, reliable winter playbook that protects the vessel, extends gear life, and saves money when demand is low.We start with the biology: algae reproduction slows around 55°F, which means you can safely run lower free chlorine. But that win comes with a catch—temperature drags LSI downward, so water gets hungrier for calcium. Bob explains how a small bump to pH and total alkalinity can stabilize balance without chasing numbers, and why calcium hardness targets still matter even in the off-season. We talk through the practical side, from long gauntlet gloves that make cold work bearable to smarter run-time choices. If you are tempted to run the pump two hours “just because,” hear why that middle ground is worse than a proper turnover.Cyanuric acid gets special attention. After a summer of tabs, winter is the perfect time to lower CYA with a partial drain and refill. Bob also shares why CYA may drift down on its own—and in rare cases crash—due to specific bacteria when chlorine is low. The takeaway is simple: even in winter, test with intent, keep CYA in the 30–50 ppm sweet spot, and nudge LSI back to balanced as temperatures fall.• Cold water reduces chlorine demand and slows algae growth• LSI drops with temperature, raising corrosion risk• Open vs closed pool choices by climate and power reliability• Salt generators underperform below about 60°F• Effective winter circulation strategies and freeze protect• Partial drain to reduce high CYA from summer tabs• Rare bacteria can consume cyanuric acid in low-chlorine pools• Preventing stains, rings, and surface damage during dormancy• Practical tweaks: raise alkalinity with bicarb, monitor pH and calcium• Cost control in winter with lower chemical usageSend us a textSupport the Pool Guy Podcast Show Sponsors! HASA https://bit.ly/HASAThe Bottom Feeder. Save $100 with Code: DVB100https://store.thebottomfeeder.com/Try Skimmer FREE for 30 days:https://getskimmer.com/poolguy Get UPA Liability Insurance $64 a month! https://forms.gle/F9YoTWNQ8WnvT4QBAPool Guy Coaching: https://bit.ly/40wFE6y

Welcome back to Behind the Win. Today we're going deep into the world of supply chain and logistics with someone who has seen it from every angle. Defense, firefighting, classrooms, and command. James Taylor is the Senior Vice President of supply chain management and logistics at LSI, an adjunct professor at Weber State and honorary commander at Hill Air Force Base. We'll talk about what really works in the field when things get messy, why some logistics professionals succeed or fail, and the lessons James has learned from leading teams on critical programs like CALFire and Department of Defense missions.

Nikita Agarwal, Founder of Milestone Localization, joins SlatorPod to talk about her journey founding a language solutions integrator (LSI) and launching Cavya.ai, a platform designed to streamline translation project preparation.Nikita began Milestone Localization in 2020 after discovering the language industry while working in international sales. She was drawn to the field's global scope and low barrier to entry. She emphasizes that sales experience played a crucial role in landing early clients and understanding the value of hiring people from within the industry. The founder reflects on the past 16 months as a period of intense change marked by AI disruption, client pressure on pricing, and shifting expectations. She highlights how regulated sectors like life sciences have helped stabilize the company amid volatility. She details how the LSI specializes in medical device translations and regulatory submissions across Europe.Nikita explains that her new platform, Cavya.ai, emerged from internal needs to improve project preparation. She says the tool automates glossaries, style guides, and document analysis, reducing time and boosting consistency for small and mid-sized projects.The founder shares her observations on India's evolving language technology landscape, noting significant progress in AI for major Indian languages. She says increased internet access and AI-driven localization are expanding education and job opportunities across the country.Nikita concludes that she sees the future in expanding life sciences work, refining Cavya, and developing an AI-powered QA tool. She notes that some clients are showing “AI fatigue” and returning to human-led workflows.

This week on the cast we welcome back Ariel Sinah and making her FUDGECAST debut in hilarious form, it's Tricia Louise Brown! We chat'n'prov about breaking up over board games, books smells that make you poop, and raising money to bring back the WWF. You can check out Ariel and Tricia together every Friday night at LSI in Chicago for Holy Goat!Follow Tricia and Ariel on their grams!⁠Join our Patreon ⁠for $5 a month for bonus eps, back log eps, and exclusive premium content!⁠Join the Discord community⁠Dive into our discord channel to connect with fellow fans, discuss your favorite episodes, and meet the hosts of the show!Hosts:⁠Damian Anaya⁠, ⁠Tim Lyons⁠

⁠Join our Patreon ⁠for $5 a month for bonus eps, back log eps, and exclusive premium content!⁠Join the Discord community⁠Dive into our discord channel to connect with fellow fans, discuss your favorite episodes, and meet the hosts of the show!On this weeks show we've got Katie Klein and John Sabine to chat'n'prov about practical effects, amalgamations, pirates and more!You can catch Katie and John together Sunday nights at LSI with The Late 90's!Keep an eye on Superhuman's Instagram to find out where they are playing next!

Welcome to Behind the Win, the podcast that goes inside the minds of leaders shaping business, government, and innovation. Today's guest is Chip Laingen, Executive Director of Defense Alliance at LSI and a nationally recognized voice in defense innovation. A navy veteran turned strategist, Chip has spent over 2 decades building one of the country's top innovation clusters. In this episode we dive into how to build lasting partnerships, lead with purpose, and position small businesses at the forefront of national security.

Text us a pool question!Got mystery stains, teal-tinted water, or customers blaming your chlorine for their new “seafoam highlights”? Andrea and Paulette dive into high metal levels in pools—where they come from (source water, corrosion, “helpful” copper products), how to confirm what you're dealing with (iron vs. copper vs. manganese), and the smartest ways to treat the water and the stain without turning the pool into a chemistry crime scene. Real talk, step-by-step protocols, and the dos/don'ts that save callbacks.Chapter Markers00:00 – Cold Open: “No, chlorine didn't dye your hair green.”02:10 – Metal 101: Iron, copper, manganese—how they look, act, and stain07:45 – Where They Come From: Source water, heaters, low-pH corrosion, old copper algaecides12:30 – Testing That Doesn't Lie: Spot tests, stain ID, metal test kits, source-water pulls16:20 – Immediate Triage: When water is tinted vs. when you have bonded stains20:15 – Stain-Lift Playbook: Ascorbic/citric protocols that actually work25:50 – Sequestrants & Chelants: HEDP/ATMP, maintenance dosing, timing with chlorine30:10 – Actual Removal: Partial drain/replace, prefilters, metal capture media, poly-fill hacks34:30 – Prevention Clinic: LSI balance, anodes, heater protection, product choices39:00 – Rapid-Fire Q&A & TakeawaysKey Symptoms & What They Usually MeanBrown/tea stains or yellowing: Often iron; may cloud when pH rises or after superchlorinationTurquoise/black smudges; blonde hair turning green: Usually copper; often tied to low pH/heater corrosion or copper algaecidesBlack/grey/purple blotches: Possible manganese; shows up in well water regionsTesting & Identification (Fast & Reliable)Pull a source-water sample (hose bib before softener) to see what you're adding every fill/top-off.Use metal test kits (iron/copper/manganese) and stain ID tests (vitamin C for iron, etc.).Verify pH & LSI first—metals love to fall out when pH/alk/CH swing.If a heater is present and copper is high, inspect for low pH corrosion and flow/erosion issues. Support the showThank you so much for listening! You can find us on social media: Facebook Instagram Tik Tok Email us: talkingpools@gmail.com

Welcome to Behind the Win, where we go deeper into how visionary leaders are shaping their industries and communities. Today we're joined by Jessica Dixon, the people-centered leader behind LSI's evolving HR strategy. Jessica has helped transform hiring, culture, and internal development during one of the most complex times in the workforce. In this conversation she shares how to hire with intention, lead with empathy, and build with culture that truly lasts.

Get this full episode and support the pod! ⁠Join our Patreon ⁠for $5 a month! Bonus eps, back log eps, and exclusive premium content!⁠Join the Discord community⁠Holy fun filled episode!This week on the cast we've got two of our very funny friends Ariel Sinha and Erin Washington to join us in a chat'n'prov about young love, signing year books, triplets and more!You can see Ariel as part of the Friday show with Holy Goat at LSI!Check out Erin at iO every Wednesday night with Birdlady!Come see us LIVE tomorrow night at iO for FUDGE and Friends with Laurel Krabacher and Mike Brunlieb! USE CODE IMPROVPERVERT for $5 off!

LSI Digital is coming soon: An interactive online platform that makes the power of the LSI more engaging, accessible, and actionable than ever before. Learn more about what to expect in this episode. Learn more here: https://www.human-synergistics.com.au/lsi-digital/

Slator's Senior Research Analyst Alex Edwards joins Esther and Florian on the pod to discuss ElevenLabs' move from a pure-play language technology platform (LTP) to becoming a language solutions integrator (LSI) by adding a managed service offering.He outlines that the LSI will now offer managed services such as dubbing, transcription, and subtitling, hiring in-house linguists and vendor managers, while charging about USD 22 per minute for dubbing.Florian then turns to YouTube's rollout of multi-language audio tracks, which allows some creators to upload high-quality audio directly to videos and opens major opportunities for AI dubbing providers. The discussion shifts to OpenAI's research on ChatGPT usage, reporting that translation accounted for 4.5% of more than a million sampled conversations, underscoring massive global demand for AI translation.Esther highlights Microsoft's launch of its Live Interpreter API, which promises real-time speech translation with “human interpreter level latency”. Esther also details Mistral's USD 2bn funding to advance European AI capabilities, allowing them to compete with US and Chinese AI giants. Esther closes by reporting on WIPO's new Korean-English post-editing tender.

This week on Behind the Win, our host, Sarah Bertagnolli, President and CEO of LSI, is joined by LSI's Senior Vice President of Government Relations, Advocacy, and Strategy, Josh Johnson. He breaks down the current government landscape, what a new administration could mean, and how LSI is staying ahead of the curve in Washington and beyond.

Welcome to a brand new episode of To The Point Cybersecurity, brought to you by Forcepoint! This week, hosts Rachael Lyon and Jonathan Knepher dive into a side of cybersecurity that doesn't often get the spotlight: the ever-evolving world of memory, storage, and hardware security. They're joined by JB Baker, Vice President of Marketing and Product Management at ScaleFlux—a seasoned expert with more than 20 years of experience at top companies like Intel, Seagate, and LSI. Coming fresh off the buzz of DEF CON and Black Hat, Rachael and Jonathan kick things off discussing grassroots cyber initiatives, before shifting gears to critical threats like Rowhammer attacks and new vulnerabilities emerging as AI transforms our approach to data and memory architecture. JB unpacks the complexities of error-correcting codes (ECC), new approaches to memory protection, and how open-source, community-driven projects are reshaping data center security. From quantum computing's impact on the encryption landscape to the ongoing power challenges facing data centers, this episode is packed with insights, real-world examples, and a look at how the future of hardware security will shape everything from AI to edge computing. Whether you're a cybersecurity professional, hardware enthusiast, or just curious about the unseen backbone powering our digital world, you won't want to miss this conversation! For links and resources discussed in this episode, please visit our show notes at https://www.forcepoint.com/govpodcast/e348

Send us a textOn today's episode, I'm joined by James Smith, Registered Nurse, Certified Pool Operator, and the mind behind the Pool Pro Training Course at Homestead Pool Services. James brings a unique background—combining years of clinical nursing with hands-on pool care—to teach pros how to truly understand water chemistry. We talk about why so many pool techs struggle with pH, alkalinity, LSI, and borates, and how his 2-hour online crash course distills advanced science into simple, practical solutions for the field. James also shares why he offers a double-your-money-back guarantee, how he helps pool pros troubleshoot in real time, and what makes this program stand apart from everything else out there. If you've ever wanted to sharpen your chemistry game and save money while delivering perfect water, this is the episode to listen to.Take the course here: https://www.homesteadpoolservices.com/pool-pro-trainingSupport the Pool Guy Podcast Show Sponsors! HASA https://bit.ly/HASAThe Bottom Feeder. Save $100 with Code: DVB100https://bit.ly/THEBOTTOMFEEDERTry Skimmer FREE for 30 days:https://getskimmer.com/poolguy Get UPA Liability Insurance $64 a month! https://forms.gle/F9YoTWNQ8WnvT4QBAPool Guy Coaching: https://bit.ly/40wFE6y Thanks for listening, and I hope you find the Podcast helpful! For other free resources to further help you:Visit my Website: https://www.swimmingpoollearning.comWatch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SPLPodcast Site: https://the-pool-guy-podcast-show.onpodium.com/ UPA General Liability Insurance Application: https://forms.gle/F9YoTWNQ8WnvT4QBA Pool Guy Coaching Group Join an exclusive network of Pool Service Technicians to access the industry's leading commercial general liability insurance program. Protect your business. Premium is $64 per month per member (additional $40 for employees and ICs) $59 per month for Pool Guy coaching Members - join here! https://www.patreon.com/poolguycoaching Limits are $1,000,000 in occurrence and $2,000,000 in the aggregate - Per member limits [ $1,000,000 per occurrence and $4,000,000 aggregate available for $75 per month ] $50,000 in HazMat Coverage - clean up on-site or over-the-road Acid Wash Coverage - Full Limits

Send us a textTerry Arko on LSI Water Balancing in High CYA Pools and Saltwater Pools Today, I dig into one of the trickiest balancing acts we face: keeping the LSI in range when dealing with high CYA levels and saltwater systems. Terry Arko joins me to explain why these pools behave differently, what adjustments we need to make, and how to keep everything in balance without going crazy. This one's a must-listen if you're fighting the stabilizer monster or managing a salt pool.Support the Pool Guy Podcast Show Sponsors! HASA https://bit.ly/HASAThe Bottom Feeder. Save $100 with Code: DVB100https://bit.ly/THEBOTTOMFEEDERTry Skimmer FREE for 30 days:https://getskimmer.com/poolguy Get UPA Liability Insurance $64 a month! https://forms.gle/F9YoTWNQ8WnvT4QBAPool Guy Coaching: https://bit.ly/40wFE6y Thanks for listening, and I hope you find the Podcast helpful! For other free resources to further help you:Visit my Website: https://www.swimmingpoollearning.comWatch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SPLPodcast Site: https://the-pool-guy-podcast-show.onpodium.com/ UPA General Liability Insurance Application: https://forms.gle/F9YoTWNQ8WnvT4QBA Pool Guy Coaching Group Join an exclusive network of Pool Service Technicians to access the industry's leading commercial general liability insurance program. Protect your business. Premium is $64 per month per member (additional $40 for employees and ICs) $59 per month for Pool Guy coaching Members - join here! https://www.patreon.com/poolguycoaching Limits are $1,000,000 in occurrence and $2,000,000 in the aggregate - Per member limits [ $1,000,000 per occurrence and $4,000,000 aggregate available for $75 per month ] $50,000 in HazMat Coverage - clean up on-site or over-the-road Acid Wash Coverage - Full Limits

Send us a textTerry Arko on why the LSI is different from Pool Water Safety In this episode, I sit down with Terry Arko to clear up a common mix-up: the Langelier Saturation Index (LSI) versus pool water safety. LSI is all about protecting the pool surface and keeping the structure healthy, while water chemistry balance for safety is all about protecting swimmers. I share how understanding both helps me care for pools more effectively and give my clients both beautiful surfaces and safe, healthy water.Support the Pool Guy Podcast Show Sponsors! HASA https://bit.ly/HASAThe Bottom Feeder. Save $100 with Code: DVB100https://bit.ly/THEBOTTOMFEEDERTry Skimmer FREE for 30 days:https://getskimmer.com/poolguy Get UPA Liability Insurance $64 a month! https://forms.gle/F9YoTWNQ8WnvT4QBAPool Guy Coaching: https://bit.ly/40wFE6y Thanks for listening, and I hope you find the Podcast helpful! For other free resources to further help you:Visit my Website: https://www.swimmingpoollearning.comWatch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SPLPodcast Site: https://the-pool-guy-podcast-show.onpodium.com/ UPA General Liability Insurance Application: https://forms.gle/F9YoTWNQ8WnvT4QBA Pool Guy Coaching Group Join an exclusive network of Pool Service Technicians to access the industry's leading commercial general liability insurance program. Protect your business. Premium is $64 per month per member (additional $40 for employees and ICs) $59 per month for Pool Guy coaching Members - join here! https://www.patreon.com/poolguycoaching Limits are $1,000,000 in occurrence and $2,000,000 in the aggregate - Per member limits [ $1,000,000 per occurrence and $4,000,000 aggregate available for $75 per month ] $50,000 in HazMat Coverage - clean up on-site or over-the-road Acid Wash Coverage - Full Limits

Get this full episode and support the pod! ⁠Join our Patreon ⁠for $3 a month for full episodes an $5 bonus eps, back log eps, and exclusive premium content!⁠Join the Discord community⁠Dive into our discord channel to connect with fellow fans, discuss your favorite episodes, and meet the hosts of the show!This week on the pod we've got two of our very best friends and improvisers Lawrence Collerd and Laurel Krabacher. We chat'n'prov about baby sitting, sausage, and the expedient passage of time.We're on the look out for our next FUDGE and Friends dates so keep your eyes glued for that date soon!Be sure to follow LSI for updates on their upcoming Cherry Street run!Check out My Man on Thursdays in August directed by Laurel at iO for two more shows!Performers:Hosts: ⁠Damian Anaya⁠, ⁠Tim Lyons⁠, and ⁠Dan White⁠

Welcome to another episode of Behind the Win, where we delve into the journeys of industry leaders shaping the future of business. Today, we're joined by Sam Beasley, Chief Operating Officer at LSI. With a rich background in banking and a fresh perspective on operational leadership, Sam shares insights on transitioning industries, fostering innovation, and steering organizations toward excellence.

Get this full episode and support the pod! ⁠Join our Patreon ⁠for $5 a month for full episodes, bonus eps and exclusive premium content!⁠Join the Discord community⁠Dive into our discord channel to connect with fellow fans, discuss your favorite episodes, and meet the hosts of the show!Its an all new ep with our friends Rudy Mendoza and Dylan Doetch! We chat'n'prov about driving tests, younger siblings, over painting your minions, and more!Check out Dylan's show at LSI The Saturday Show!See Rudy perform on the Thursday show and Antojitos at LSI also check out Rudy's Bilingual Comedy School and take a class!FUDGE is performing at iO FEST July 25th at 7:30 pm. See us as part of the 4 Day Pass!Hosts: ⁠Damian Anaya⁠, ⁠Tim Lyons⁠, and ⁠Dan White⁠

In this live episode from the LSI conference in California, Etienne Nichols is joined by Ashkon Rasooli to break down what it really takes to build a high-performing quality management system (QMS) in medtech—from startup chaos to post-market scale. Ashkon shares a phased approach to aligning QMS implementation with product development, explains the concept of "enforcement points," and reveals how founders can reduce the burden of compliance by starting small and planning ahead. If you're navigating regulatory requirements while trying to stay innovative, this episode is your roadmap to smarter, leaner quality.Key Timestamps00:02 – Introduction to Greenlight Guru and medtech process integration01:15 – QMS evolution from startup to commercialization03:00 – Phase-based product development overview (Phases 0–6)06:35 – Why QMS should follow product needs, not just regulatory triggers09:10 – Agile vs. proceduralism in quality systems11:50 – Building a quality culture during the feasibility phase15:25 – When to implement QMS controls and how to prepare for “enforcement points”18:40 – Investor-driven and regulatory QMS triggers21:10 – How early QMS planning saves time and reduces future remediation26:20 – Ashkon's final advice for startups: start small and stay proactiveStandout Quotes"You've got to take the BS—being burdensome—out of QMS."Ashkon Rasooli redefines QMS as a project management tool, challenging the notion that compliance must be a burden. This quote encapsulates his philosophy of proactive, phased implementation that actually enhances product development."Start small and do a little bit at a time—it won't seem like a burden."A practical mantra for startups, this advice underscores how a gradual, well-aligned QMS rollout can prevent last-minute fire drills and wasted effort.Top TakeawaysUse the "Phase 0–6" Model to Guide QMS Rollout – Align QMS implementation with the stages of product development to ensure each step supports the next.Don't Wait for Enforcement Points – Start building your QMS before regulators or investors demand it to avoid remediation-heavy implementations.Prioritize Culture Before Controls – In early feasibility, focus on aligning your team with medtech's safety responsibilities, rather than formal procedures.Procedures Should Support Outcomes, Not Just Check Boxes – Avoid proceduralism by tying every process back to its intended quality objective.Regulatory Strategy = Investor Strategy – QMS maturity is increasingly scrutinized during due diligence. Treat it as a value driver, not just a cost.ReferencesAshkon Rasooli on LinkedInGreenlight Guru – Quality management software for medical devicesEtienne Nichols on LinkedIn – Connect with the hostISO 13485 vs. ISO 9001 – Explains how medical device quality systems build on general standardsISO 14155 Overview – Relevant for clinical validation proceduresMedTech 101: What Are “Enforcement Points”?In the context of QMS, enforcement points are moments when external stakeholders (regulators or investors) require proof of formalized processes. Think of it like a driver's license checkpoint—you may be cruising just fine, but at that moment, you must prove you're compliant. The earlier you prep for them, the smoother your...

Support the pod! ⁠Join our Patreon ⁠for weekly bonus episodes and TONS of exclusive premium content⁠Join the Discord community⁠Dive into our discord channel to connect with fellow fans, discuss your favorite episodes, and meet the hosts of the show!This week we're joined by Ariel Sinah and Meredith Weir to chat'n'prov about spy gear, LOST, Beatles Cover bands and all of our AI's becoming besties.Thanks to DTrain389 for our opening scene request!OUT OF YOUR EARS AND ONTO THE STAGE!Check out Ariel and Meredith every Friday with Holy Goat at LSI in Chicago!See Ariel and Damian in The Family at iO!This Saturday at 8 pm come hang at Mud City Festival!FUDGE and Friends with Erin Keif and Jesse Kendell (USE CODE FUDGEFRIEND)Performers:Guests: Ariel Sinah and Meredith WeirHosts:⁠ ⁠Damian Anaya⁠⁠,⁠ ⁠Tim Lyons⁠⁠, and⁠ ⁠Dan White⁠⁠