Podcasts about scaling up

"Our gross profit margin is truly the battle we have to win in order to win all of the downstream wars." - Tracy Bech  Financial statements become useful when leaders can translate the numbers into decisions. Tracy Bech, founder and author of 60 Minute CFO, explains how business owners, managers, salespeople, and field professionals can develop financial fluency without becoming accountants.  Turn Financial Data into a Meaningful Scorecard  Tracy teaches finance through stories and relationships rather than isolated numbers. Revenue alone does not reveal whether a company is financially healthy. Leaders need ratios that show how efficiently the company earns money, whether it can meet its obligations, and how prepared it is to withstand adversity.  Her three foundational measures are gross profit margin, liquidity, and safety. Gross profit margin shows what remains after the cost of producing a product or delivering a service. If that margin is too low, the company may not have enough money to cover operating expenses and generate a net profit.  Liquidity compares current assets with current liabilities, revealing the company's ability to pay its bills. Safety compares debt with equity and helps leaders understand the company's financial resilience and capacity to obtain financing when needed.  Move From Historical Reports to Forward Planning  Tax preparation and year-end reports explain what already happened. However, financial fluency allows leaders to use that history to forecast what should happen next.  Tracy outlines three stages: learn the key ratios, understand the difference between cash and profit, and use historical results to develop forecasts. Instead of simply accepting the final score, leaders can establish financial targets and create specific marching orders for pricing, sales, expenses, hiring, and growth.  Give Teams Metrics They Can Influence  Financial planning should not remain confined to the executive team. Salespeople and technicians can provide valuable information about customer responses, operational friction, pricing, quality, rework, referrals, and service delivery.  However, Tracy cautions leaders against sharing financial information that employees cannot control. Teams benefit most from clear measures connected to their work, such as proposals won, project margins, pricing discipline, accurate service, reduced callbacks, customer reviews, and referrals.  Financial visibility also strengthens succession planning. Owners preparing to exit can improve their position by optimizing financial ratios, protecting the balance sheet, exploring future growth opportunities, and developing the next generation of leadership.  Understanding the story behind the numbers helps water treatment professionals evaluate risk, communicate priorities, and make decisions that support long-term stability.  Listen to the full conversation above. Explore related episodes below. Stay engaged, keep learning, and continue scaling up your knowledge!    Timestamps  02:20 — Trace Blackmore shares what listeners can expect during Legionella Awareness Month, including a weekly series addressing Legionella and other waterborne pathogens.  03:20 — Upcoming Events for Water Treatment Professionals: Trace highlights the 2026 AWT Technical Training, taking place November 11–14 in Frisco, Texas.  05:40 — Words of Water with James  08:40 — Interview with Tracy Bech, founder and author of 60 Minute CFO and business finance educator and strategist, about making business finance less intimidating and developing financial fluency.  11:30 — Tracy explains why business finance often feels overwhelming and how simple calculations and relatable stories make financial concepts easier to understand.  13:20 — Financial performance becomes a team scorecard that helps technicians and employees understand how their work contributes to the company's health.  16:40 — Finance terminology can create communication gaps, leaving otherwise successful owners uncertain about retained earnings, working capital, and cash flow.  21:50 — Tracy explains why profit is essential for serving customers, supporting employees, and keeping a business financially sustainable.  23:30 — Gross profit margin emerges as a critical measure because it determines whether enough money remains to cover operating expenses and generate profit.  25:50 — Liquidity and safety help leaders evaluate whether the company can pay its bills, manage debt, and withstand financial adversity.  33:10 — Tracy presents three steps toward financial fluency: learn the essential ratios, understand cash versus profit, and use historical performance to forecast the future.  35:20 — Leaders can improve execution by establishing a clear destination while allowing their teams to identify obstacles, opportunities, and necessary adjustments.  38:10 — Open-book management works best when employees receive financial metrics they understand and can directly influence.  40:00 — Field professionals affect financial results through accurate work, fewer callbacks, controlled expenses, positive reviews, and customer referrals.  41:10 — Business owners can begin improving their financial fluency by reviewing the previous month's income statement and balance sheet and confirming that the information is accurate.  44:00 — Understanding the numbers helps leaders balance growth and stability while making informed decisions about profit, debt, equipment, and owner distributions.  47:10 — Tracy explains how owners preparing for retirement can strengthen financial performance, protect the balance sheet, and develop future leaders.  50:30 — Tracy encourages business leaders to give finance another chance, discover the story behind their numbers, and recognize financial fluency as a learnable skill.    Quotes "Your business cannot exist without profits and you owe it to your customers and you owe it to your employees to have profits."  "But when you get your strategies and you understand why things went the way they went, now you actually create your forecast and your marching orders."  "The best time to plant the tree was 20 years ago, and the next best time to plant the tree is today."  "I think that honestly, this is easier than you think."    Connect with Tracy Bech  Email: tracy@60minutecfo.com   Website: 60 Minute CFO  LinkedIn: Tracy Bech | LinkedIn    Guest Resources Mentioned   60 Minute CFO  The Great Game of Business, Expanded and Updated: The Only Sensible Way to Run a Company by Jack Stack (Author), Bo Burlingham (Author)  Grow Up Fast: Lessons from an AI Startup by Zach Rattner (Author), Rita Sus (Illustrator)  Power vs. Force: The Hidden Determinants of Human Behavior by Ph.D. Hawkins, david R., M.D. (Author)    Scaling UP! H2O Resources Mentioned  AWT (Association of Water Technologies)  AWT 2026 Annual Convention & Exposition  Scaling UP! H2O Academy video courses  Submit a Show Idea  The Rising Tide Mastermind    Words of Water with James McDonald  Today's definition means "water loving" and refers to substances that are attracted to water. 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.    This episode made possible through our valued partners at: 

In this episode of The Heart of Business, Mo Fathelbab sits down with Justin Ricklefs, founder and CEO of Guild Collective, to explore the entrepreneurial journey behind building a successful customer-first marketing agency. Justin shares how early ventures—including selling concert tickets in college and recovering from a costly $30,000 business mistake—taught him resilience, accountability, and the importance of learning from failure rather than avoiding it.Justin reflects on the pivotal moments that shaped his career, from navigating debt and difficult job transitions to launching Guild Collective with a clear mission: helping brands tell stories where the customer—not the company—is the hero. He explains why focusing on a defined niche, simplifying service offerings, and staying relentlessly customer-centered have been key drivers of the company's long-term success.The conversation also dives into the realities of leadership, including managing payroll anxiety, adapting to client changes, and recognizing when it's time to bring in complementary leadership. Justin discusses the impact of hiring an integrator COO, joining a CEO peer forum, and surrounding himself with trusted advisors who challenge his thinking and help him make better decisions.Throughout the episode, Justin emphasizes that sustainable leadership extends beyond business strategy. He shares how prioritizing family, cultivating strong support systems, and resisting the constant pressure to chase "what's next" have helped him build not only a stronger company, but a more fulfilling life. It's an honest conversation about resilience, purpose, and leading with both ambition and perspective.Please visit www.internationalfacilitatorsorganization.com to learn more about Mo Fathelbab and International Facilitators Organization (IFO), a leading provider of facilitators and related group facilitation services, providing training, certification, marketing services, education, and community for peer group facilitators at all stages of their career.

Melissa Palmer inherited a wholesale beauty brand from her mother and rebuilt it into a nine-figure omnichannel business—with direct to consumer, Amazon, TikTok Shop, and more than 1,500 Ulta locations each playing a role in how OSEA Malibu finds and keeps customers. For more on OSEA Malibu and show notes click here Subscribe and watch Shopify Masters on YouTube!Sign up for your FREE Shopify Trial here.

In this conversation, we sit down with entrepreneur Nick Friedman to discuss entrepreneurship, leadership, franchising, and what it takes to build a lasting business. Best known as the co-founder of College HUNKS Hauling Junk & Moving, Nick joins us to share the lessons behind scaling one of North America's fastest-growing franchise brands, along with insights from his book, Effortless Entrepreneur: Work Smart, Play Hard, Make Millions. Nick is a purpose-driven entrepreneur whose businesses are built around strong values, innovation, and people-first leadership. Alongside College HUNKS Hauling Junk & Moving, he also co-founded Trash Butler, a nationwide valet trash service serving multifamily communities. Hit play to discover: How Nick and his business partner turned a college idea into a national franchise. The leadership principles behind building successful teams. Why company culture is one of the biggest drivers of long-term growth. Advice on franchising, entrepreneurship, and scaling a business. The mindset shifts that separate successful entrepreneurs from everyone else. Nick has been featured by Forbes, Fortune, Newsweek, CNN, CNBC, ABC's Shark Tank, and Undercover Boss. He is also an active member of the Young Presidents' Organization (YPO) and a founding member of the Young Entrepreneur Council (YEC), where he continues to mentor entrepreneurs and business leaders around the world. Connect with Nick: College HUNKS Hauling Junk & Moving Personal Website Instagram LinkedIn

Water meters register the volume passing through them, but what happens when that volume contains both water and entrained air? Anthony Giudice, president of AquaFlow, explains how turbulent flow can influence meter readings and how AquaFlow's calibrated valve is designed to help meters reflect what he describes as true water consumption.    Why Flow Conditions Matter at the Meter  Anthony connects entrained air to the pressure required to move municipal water and the turbulence created as water travels through piping, changes direction, and encounters shifting demand. Because a conventional meter cannot distinguish between water and air within that volume, he says the resulting air-water mixture can contribute to overreading.  The valve addresses the condition from the customer's side of the property. Installed immediately after the meter, it creates a slight backpressure intended to establish laminar flow upstream while compressing the entrained air rather than removing it from the system.    Calibration, Placement, and System Conditions  Each valve is calibrated for its specific meter and operating environment. Anthony explains why valves cannot simply be exchanged between meters of the same size and describes a dual-spring design that responds to changing pressure throughout the day.  Available sizes range from three-quarter inch to 32 inches, supporting applications from residential service to power plants, data centers, manufacturing facilities, and cooling tower systems. Trace and Anthony also examine an important secondary-metering question: where should a valve be installed when cooling tower makeup and bleed meters affect water and sewer billing credits?  The answer depends on the measurement objective. Teams must first identify which meter they want to optimize and how any downstream reading affects utility calculations or sewer credits.    Measuring Results Beyond the Utility Bill  A lower invoice alone does not prove that a valve is performing. Facility activity may change substantially from one billing period to another.  Anthony recommends a measurement and verification reconciliation using 12 clean pre-installation months, the installation month, and at least three clean post-installation months. Consumption should then be normalized against an operating unit such as cars washed, hotel guests, or stadium attendance.  A car wash example demonstrates the distinction. Recorded consumption changed from 16.03 gallons per car before installation to 13.13 gallons per car afterward. That per-unit comparison provided a clearer performance indicator than the total bill, which could rise or fall with the number of vehicles served.  Careful meter selection, operating data, and normalized analysis help water professionals evaluate this technology without confusing reduced recorded consumption with changes in production or occupancy.  Listen to the full conversation above. Explore related episodes below. Stay engaged, keep learning, and continue scaling up your knowledge!    Timestamps  02:20 — Trace Blackmore Shares: Reflections on Episode 485's listener-submitted questions, ways to suggest future topics and guests, and learning resources available at ScalingUpH2O.com.  05:00 — Words of Water with James: James McDonald challenges listeners to identify the term for the distribution ratio of a volatile substance between the steam and liquid phases.  07:20 — Upcoming Events for Water Treatment Professionals: Trace previews the 2026 AWT Convention and Expo, the American Chemical Society Expo, and August's Legionella Awareness Month programming.  10:40 — Interview with Anthony Giudice, President of AquaFlow: Anthony introduces water-meter optimization and explains how entrained air can affect recorded water consumption.  12:50 — Anthony explains how municipal pressure, pipe length, changing demand, and directional changes contribute to turbulent flow and entrained air.  14:00 — Trace raises a practical question about secondary metering for cooling-tower makeup and bleed water.  16:00 — Anthony explains the valve's placement on the customer's side of the meter and connects its operation to Bernoulli's principle, the Venturi effect, and Boyle's law.  18:20 — Anthony distinguishes AquaFlow's dynamic, meter-specific valve from conventional pressure-reducing and check valves.  20:00 — Anthony clarifies that the device compresses entrained air—not water—and describes what happens after the mixture passes through the valve.  21:00 — Anthony discusses reported payback periods, 316L stainless-steel construction, certifications, installation time, trial terms, valve sizes, and industrial applications.  23:50 — Anthony connects water-meter optimization with property value, water-hammer reduction, booster-pump protection, and possible carbon-credit opportunities.  28:30 — Anthony explains how visual demonstrations and measurement and verification reconciliation can document performance more reliably than invoice comparisons alone.  30:50 — A car-wash example demonstrates why gallons per vehicle provide a clearer performance measure than total monthly consumption.  32:50 — Trace and Anthony revisit cooling-tower submetering to determine valve placement when sewer credits are involved.  36:10 — Anthony outlines the site survey, meter-specific calibration, recommended valve location, and typical installation process.  38:50 — The conversation explores possible applications for creating laminar flow in blood, eggs, oil, gas, and other fluid-handling systems.  41:20 — Anthony directs listeners to AquaFlow's website and homepage demonstration for more information.  42:20 — Trace explains AquaFlow's 90-day trial offer for the Scaling Up Nation, including discount code H2O750 and the additional money-back guarantee.    Quotes  "Meters, unfortunately, people don't like to hear this, but they're designed to register volume. Volume is anything that passes underneath the meter."  "Each one is specific to that meter. You can't just start, even if they're the same size, you can't just start switching them around."  "We're not compressing water. We're compressing the entrained air in the water."  "It was 16.03 gallons of air and water. When the valve was installed, it forces a true water consumption reading of 13.13 gallons."    Connect with Anthony Giudice  Phone: 19544156973  Email: tony@aquaflow.com   Website: AquaFlow – Reduce Water Bills with Smart Water Valves   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mbe750/     Guest Resources Mentioned   AquaFlow – Reduce Water Bills with Smart Water Valves  International Performance Measurement and Verification Protocol  Bernoulli's Equation  Venturi Theory  Boyle's Law  NSF/ANSI/CAN 61 Testing and Certification   IAPMO R&T Water Systems Certification  Kiwa NSF/ANSI/CAN 61 Certification  Siemens Process Instrumentation  Honeywell Flow Meters    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 a measure of the tendency of a volatile substance, such as a neutralizing amine, to remain in the steam phase. It is defined as the ratio of the concentration of the substance in the steam phase to its concentration in the liquid phase. 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.    This episode made possible through our valued partners at:   

In this episode, we learn why scaling your small business can lead to greater success and how to do it more effectively. Discover strategies from expert Aaron Gibson that every entrepreneur should know today and in the future.

 Ten questions from water professionals around the world become a practical decision-making session with Trace Blackmore, CWT. Drawing on earlier Scaling UP! H2O conversations, Trace explains how to evaluate treatment changes, use emerging tools responsibly, begin water reuse projects, strengthen teams, and continue growing professionally.    Evaluate the Entire System  A proposed treatment change should be evaluated by more than its purchase price. When comparing chlorine dioxide with traditional chlorine, Trace recommends examining biocide consumption, chemical storage, corrosion rates, biofilm control, heat-transfer efficiency, cleaning requirements, downtime, labor, equipment life, and Legionella risk. A documented pilot on one tower can provide evidence before a facility commits to a larger investment.  Water reuse decisions require the same discipline. Before introducing treated wastewater or cooling tower blowdown into another application, characterize the water, calculate current and projected costs, identify regulatory requirements, and determine compatibility with the existing treatment program. Starting with a blended approach or limited pilot can help a team test feasibility while managing operational risk.    Use New Tools Without Surrendering Professional Judgment  For technicians exploring AI, Trace recommends beginning with approved, nonrestricted data. Service reports and controller data can help an AI platform organize information, identify subtle trends, prepare meeting summaries, and improve the wording of recommendations.  However, AI output still requires verification. Company data policies must come first, and technical recommendations should be reviewed against field experience, trusted references, and knowledgeable mentors.  Product changes also demand controlled testing. When evaluating maleic acid-based corrosion inhibitors, Trace recommends laboratory compatibility testing, careful review of the order of addition, temperature and shelf-stability checks, and a low-risk field pilot. Corrosion coupons, system cleanliness, dosing performance, and historical results can then be compared before expanding the program.    Strengthen Teams, Goals, and Professional Growth  The listener questions also address turnover, accountability, education, and industry involvement. Trace explains how behavioral assessment can support job fit and team communication, while weekly accountability, visible goals, time blocking, and lead-measure tracking can make a 12-week plan more achievable.  He also reflects on how his MBA and DBA studies have influenced his strategic thinking, data-based decisions, leadership, and approach to scalable systems. The discussion closes with the value of continuing education, professional certification, trade association membership, committee participation, and relationships that provide support when difficult field problems arise.  These answers offer practical starting points for making better technical, operational, and professional decisions—while knowing what evidence to gather before recommending change.  Listen to the full conversation above. Explore related episodes below. Stay engaged, keep learning, and continue scaling up your knowledge!     Timestamps 02:30 — Trace introduces ten questions submitted by Scaling UP! Nation members around the world, connecting earlier episodes to current field decisions. 04:40 — Upcoming industry events highlight opportunities for water professionals to plan ahead, network, and continue learning. 06:10 — August's focus on Legionella and waterborne pathogens prepares listeners for a month of specialized technical education. 07:00 — Industrial Water Week returns October 5–9 with daily episodes and new Detective H2O segments. 07:40 — Trace explains how to build a business case for chlorine dioxide by tracking operating costs, system performance, and total ownership value. 14:30 — A beginner's roadmap for AI shows technicians how to analyze trends while respecting company data policies and verifying results. 23:30 — Water quality, current costs, regulations, treatment compatibility, and stakeholder involvement frame an initial cooling tower reuse assessment. 29:30 — Laboratory testing, order of addition, stability checks, and field pilots reduce risk when evaluating maleic acid-based corrosion inhibitors. 34:10 — Trace connects Culture Index with turnover reduction, better hiring decisions, improved communication, and stronger job fit. 40:20 — Weekly accountability, visible goals, calendar blocks, and lead measures help route-based professionals execute a 12-week plan. 45:30 — Characterization, regulatory review, plant tolerance, and a limited pilot provide a practical path for reusing cooling tower blowdown. 49:00 — Episodes 441–445, discussion guides, transcripts, and team-led conversations can support structured technical training. 52:40 — Trace reflects on how his MBA and DBA studies influence systems thinking, leadership, scalability, and data-based decisions. 58:20 — AWT membership, CWT certification, committee participation, training, and professional relationships offer value to water treaters worldwide. Quotes  "And then I would look at the total cost of owning this equipment, not just the cost of buying the equipment." "AI can be incorrect. So, if it tells you something, the bottom line I want to tell you is fact check to verify." "And the last thing that comes to mind is maybe you start off with a pilot instead of the entire program. And maybe you start out with a blended approach instead of an all or nothing approach." "You'll be amazed at how having somebody that is interested and holding you accountable will make you make better decisions when you need to make decisions." "And also, I'm hoping that it creates a model where I just didn't stop learning at my CWT."   Connect with Scaling UP! H2O Submit a show idea: Submit a Show Idea  LinkedIn: in/traceblackmore/  YouTube: @ScalingUpH2O    Scaling UP! H2O Resources Mentioned  12 Week Year  AWT (Association of Water Technologies) Scaling UP! H2O Academy video courses Submit a Show Idea Ep 405 - Cooling Water Innovation: Harnessing Wastewater for Sustainability Ep 418 - Maleic Acid-Based Corrosion Inhibitors: Expanding the Water Treatment Toolbox with Mike Standish Ep 420 - Tapping Into Tech: How Ben Frieders Uses AI to Elevate Water Treatment Marketing Ep 422 - Inside the Association of Water Technologies with John Caloritis Ep 424 - Chlorine Dioxide Insights with Greg Simpson Ep 441 - Industrial Water Week 2025: Pretreatment Monday Ep 442 - Industrial Water Week 2025: Boiler Tuesday Ep 443 - Industrial Water Week 2025: Cooling Wednesday Ep 444 - Industrial Water Week 2025: Wastewater Thursday Ep 445 - Industrial Water Week 2025: Careers Friday Ep 446 - Leveraging the Culture Index for Business Success with Danielle Scimeca and Conor Parrish Ep 447 - Unlocking Team Potential with Culture Index with Randi Fargen Ep 456 - The 12 Days of Scaling UP! H2O 2025 Ep 457 - 2026: A New Year with New Intentions Ep 459 - From Wastewater to Resource: Water Reuse with Dr. Veronika Zhiteneva Ep 474 - Questions from the Scaling UP! Nation about Trace 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 made possible through our valued partners at:   

In the next episode of the Energy Connects podcast, host Chiranjib Sengupta speaks to Ashish Khanna, Director General of the International Solar Alliance, as the organisation celebrates a 10-year milestone. In this revisited conversation, Khanna reflects on the organisation's journey and how it has grown to its current strength of 25 member countries, highlighting the rapid growth of solar deployment, the need to unlock private-sector investment, and the importance of building local skills and institutions. He also explores how AI and digitalisation can expand energy access, support distributed renewable energy systems, and help developing nations leapfrog into a more sustainable future.

Success doesn't have to mean “big.” Shape your business to fit your own vision and happiness, not someone else's expectations.Glenn Harper and Julie Smith discuss the age-old question: is bigger always better when it comes to business?As they talk about the pressures entrepreneurs face to constantly scale and grow, Glenn Harper and Julie Smith explore why some of the best businesses intentionally stay small — focusing on profitability, purpose, and personal satisfaction over sheer size.Together, they uncover the importance of quiet reflection, defining your own vision for success, and tuning out the noise from social media and peers.Whether you dream of running a multinational company or a boutique operation, this episode will help you clarify your goals and find fulfillment on your entrepreneurial journey.Here are 3 key takeaways for any business leader considering their next move:Define Your Own Success - Don't let external noise dictate your goals. Ask yourself what truly makes you happy and fulfilled in your business (03:00). Is it maximizing profits, impacting more clients, or maintaining flexibility and control?Intentional Planning is Essential - Growth for growth's sake isn't always the answer. Carve out quiet time away from daily tasks (preferably on a mountain, according to Glenn Harper!) to reflect on the future you want and map a path to get there (02:19).Scaling Requires Support - If growth is your goal, don't go at it alone. Building a great team or hiring experienced consultants can make scaling more manageable and successful (01:31; 04:04).This episode is brought to you by PureTax, LLC. Tax preparation services without the pressure. When all you need is to get your tax return done, take the stress out of tax season by working with a firm that has simplified the process and the pricing. Find out more about how we started.FAQ'sIs it better for a business to stay small or try to scale up?Glenn Harper and Julie Smith discuss that "better" depends on the entrepreneur's vision and goals. Some find more satisfaction and profitability by staying small, while others thrive by scaling up and building large teams 00:33 01:58. Ultimately, choosing the right path means assessing personal happiness and business objectives rather than blindly following growth trends.How can entrepreneurs decide what size they want their business to be?Glenn Harper recommends entrepreneurs spend quiet, uninterrupted time away from daily tasks to reflect deeply on what makes them happy and what they truly want their business to be 02:19 02:50. By tuning out outside noise and societal expectations, they can clarify their own definitions of success before committing to growth or staying small.What steps should business owners take before scaling their company?Before scaling, Glenn Harper suggests entrepreneurs clarify their vision, assemble the right team, and seek guidance from experienced consultants 01:26 04:04. He emphasizes that attempting to scale alone is very difficult, so learning from others can dramatically improve the process.Running a business doesn't have to run your life.Without a business partner who holds you accountable, it's easy to be so busy ‘doing' business that you don't have the right strategy to grow your business.Stop letting your business run you. At Harper & Co CPA Plus, we know that you want to be empowered to build the lifestyle you envision. In order to do that you need a clear path to follow for successOur clients enjoy a proactive partnership with us. Schedule a consultation with us today.Download our free guide - Entrepreneurial Success Formula: How to Avoid Managing Your Business From Your Bank Account.Glenn Harper, CPA, is the Owner and Managing Partner of Harper & Company CPAs Plus, a top 10 Managing Partner in the country (Accounting Today's 2022 MP Elite). His firm won the 2021 Luca Award for Firm of the Year. An entrepreneur and speaker, Glenn transformed his firm into an advisory-focused practice, doubling revenue and profit in two years. He teaches entrepreneurs to build financial and operational excellence, speaks nationwide to CPA firm owners about running their businesses like entrepreneurs, and consults with firms across the country. Glenn enjoys golfing, fishing, hiking, cooking, and spending time with his family.Julie Smith, MBA, is a serial entrepreneur in the public accounting space. She is the Founder of EmpowerCPA™, Founder of PureTax, LLC, COO for Harper & Company CPAs Plus, and Co-host of the Empowering Entrepreneurs podcast. Named CPA.com's 2021 Innovative Practitioner of Year, Julie led Harper & Company's transition to an advisory-focused firm, doubling revenue and profit in two years. She now empowers other CPA firm owners nationwide through consulting and speaking, teaching them how to run their businesses like entrepreneurs. Julie lives in Columbus, OH with her family and enjoys travel, coaching basketball, sporting events, and the occasional shopping spree.https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nd/4.0/Copyright 2026 Glenn HarperMentioned in this episode:Brought to you by Harper & Company CPAs PlusRunning a business takes vision, grit… and the right financial partner. At Harper & Company CPAs Plus, we don't just crunch numbers—we empower entrepreneurs. From proactive tax strategy and accounting to business advisory services, our team helps you keep more of what you earn and scale with confidence. Whether you're launching, growing, or preparing for exit, Harper & Company is in your corner with expert guidance built for business owners like you. Visit www.harpercpaplus.com to book a complimentary discovery call today - or call us at 614-456-7222. Brought to you by Harper & Company CPAs Plus

Welcome back to Behind the Win. We're talking about how a city positions itself for growth, visibility, and long-term impact without losing what makes it special. And a big part of that conversation right now is Ogden, especially with the momentum around the Ogden Airport and new commercial service, including Breeze Airways. Joining us today is Casey Sanders, the Airport Marketing and Business Recruitment Manager for Ogden-Hinckley Airport, where he's leading efforts to bring in new service and drive economic growth through aviation. He also serves as an honorary commander with the Hill Air Force Base, giving him a unique perspective on the connection between the airport, the defense community, and the broader region.

Industrial operations depend on water of a predictable quantity and quality, yet many organizations still treat that reliability as a given. Dr. Newsha Ajami joins Trace Blackmore, CWT, to examine water security as a business continuity issue and resilience as the ability to withstand pressure, maintain operations, and recover quickly when systems fail.  Connecting Risk, Resilience, and Recovery  For industrial water users, water security means maintaining access to the quantity and quality required to operate without interruption. That reliability depends on more than the water source itself. Treatment systems require energy, critical processes need backup plans, and organizations must understand what happens when one part of the system becomes unavailable.  Dr. Newsha connects risk assessment directly to resilience planning. Organizations can reduce exposure by developing portfolios of water sources and solutions, building redundancy, preparing for power disruptions, and allocating resources before a crisis occurs. Recovery should also create an opportunity to reconsider infrastructure, governance, and institutional structures rather than automatically rebuilding the same system in the same way.  Investing Before the System Fails  Proactive water decisions often require leadership willing to invest before the immediate need becomes visible. Dr. Newsha highlights Arizona's decision to store Colorado River allocations underground, Yuba Water Agency's collaboration with Blue Forest to support watershed and infrastructure resilience, and San Francisco's on-site water reuse requirements for qualifying buildings.  These examples demonstrate that resilience can be strengthened through policy, financial models, external partnerships, water reuse, supply planning, and business model innovation. They also show why public agencies and private businesses may approach risk differently—and why each can learn from the other.  Data Centers as a Water Challenge and Opportunity  Data center development places new attention on water availability, cooling demand, energy use, and community infrastructure. Rather than treating these facilities only as a threat to local resources, Dr. Newsha encourages water professionals to examine where they are built, how they are cooled, and what innovations could reduce their water and energy requirements.  Potential strategies include more efficient computing models, chip-level cooling, heat-absorbing materials, recovered-heat applications, water recycling, and co-location with facilities that can use excess heat. Collaboration between data center developers and host communities could also direct new investment toward aging or inadequate water infrastructure.  Making Water a National Priority  The Aspen national water strategy initiative brought together participants from agriculture, industry, energy, transportation, engineering, technology, rural and urban communities, Native American communities, and different political backgrounds. The goal was to identify shared principles and actions that could guide water decisions across national, state, and local levels.  Dr. Newsha argues that water must be managed as a national security issue. That requires investment not only in technology, but also in institutions, policies, business models, research, natural infrastructure, and the governance structures that shape decision-making.  Industrial water professionals can contribute by helping clients identify vulnerabilities, challenge assumptions, and make reliability investments before an interruption forces the decision.  Listen to the full conversation above. Explore related episodes below. Stay engaged, keep learning, and continue scaling up your knowledge!    Timestamps  01:19 — Trace Blackmore shares highlights from the previous week, including the Fourth of July, the daytime edition of The Hang with AWT Young Professionals, and the Scaling Up Nation's role in raising the bar across industrial water treatment.  03:05 — Trace recognizes several July 10 observances before turning the spotlight toward the water treatment industry's own annual celebration.  04:36 — Industrial Water Week 2026 returns October 5–9 with dedicated episodes covering pretreatment, boilers, cooling, wastewater, and careers in industrial water.  06:38 — Words of Water with James   09:15 — Upcoming Events for Water Treatment Professionals 11:01 — Interview with Dr. Newsha Ajami, founding director of the Risk Resilience and Recovery Program at Stanford University, about water security, resilient infrastructure, risk planning, recovery, and the policies and financial systems that shape water decisions 12:17 — Dr. Newsha explains how her engineering and hydrology background expanded into water policy, regulation, and infrastructure finance.  13:50 — Water's everyday invisibility can create a false sense that reliable access will always continue without deliberate planning or investment.  15:35 — Water security for industrial users means maintaining the quantity and quality required to operate reliably and avoid business interruptions.  16:23 — Resilience requires systems that can tolerate pressure, maintain operations through redundancy, and recover quickly after failure.  17:45 — Risk, resilience, and recovery connect through better vulnerability assessment, diversified water sources, backup plans, and improved rebuilding decisions.  21:26 — Utilities, insurers, financial institutions, nonprofits, and government agencies all influence how resilient water systems become.  22:09 — Reactive business models and inflexible funding structures often delay resilience investments until after a disaster has occurred.  25:51 — Arizona's groundwater storage, Yuba Water Agency's watershed investments, and Moulton Niguel Water District's operational changes demonstrate different approaches to long-term resilience.  29:45 — San Francisco's onsite water reuse requirements show how policy can support development while reducing pressure on centralized water supplies.  38:32 — The Aspen National Water Strategy seeks to create a nonpartisan roadmap shaped by diverse regions, sectors, communities, and political perspectives.  41:13 — Dr. Newsha explains why water should be treated as a national security issue and why innovation must extend beyond technology to policies, institutions, and business models.  43:44 — Stanford's Risk Resilience and Recovery Program examines how governance, insurance, finance, and legislation affect preparation for natural hazards and disaster recovery.  45:46 — Dr. Newsha invites listeners to connect through Stanford and LinkedIn to follow the program's research, partnerships, and future events.  47:51 — Trace summarizes the conversation, emphasizing risk awareness, system redundancy, improved recovery planning, and collaboration among all stakeholders.  51:00 — Trace encourages professionals to apply past operational data, involve every relevant stakeholder, and help more water treaters discover the Scaling UP! H2O podcast.    Quotes  "And even when they break, be able to bounce back quickly."  "Data centers, a challenge and an opportunity."  "But we use we have to use this opportunity to, we have to use this as an opportunity to change, to do better, to build our infrastructure."  "Water is an invisible connector across everything we have, we do, we depend on."  "We do talk about water, but we do not manage water as a national security issue. And water is a national security issue."    Connect with Dr. Newsha Ajami Email: newsha@stanford.edu   Website: Stanford University   LinkedIn: Newsha Ajami, PhD | LinkedIn    Guest Resources Mentioned   ASPEN – National Water Strategy  Governance for Risk, Resilience, and Recovery (GR3)  Aspen National Water Strategy Initiative  Arizona Water Banking Authority — Water Storage  Blue Forest — Yuba I Forest Resilience Bond   Dr. Newsha Ajami — Stanford Profile  Article 12C of the San Francisco Health Code  San Francisco Public Utilities Commission — Onsite Water Reuse   Yuba Water Agency — Forest Resilience Bond    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 water lost from a cooling tower as liquid droplets entrained in the exhaust air. It is independent of water lost by evaporation.    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 made possible through our valued partners at: 

What does it really take to build a business that thrives - not just financially, but sustainably?In this episode of A Life of Greatness, Sarah Grynberg sits down with Verne Harnish, founder of Entrepreneurs' Organization and bestselling author of Scaling Up. After decades spent advising some of the world's fastest-growing companies, Verne shares the principles that separate businesses that simply survive from those that truly flourish.But this conversation goes far beyond business strategy. Verne reflects on growing up in a family that went from wealth to hardship, the lessons he learned watching his father's entrepreneurial journey unravel, and how those experiences shaped his life's work. Together, Sarah and Verne explore leadership, resilience, curiosity, personal growth, and why success is built just as much from who you become as what you achieve.Whether you're leading a business, building a career, or simply trying to create a more meaningful life, this conversation offers practical wisdom that extends far beyond the boardroom.You'll learn:Why every great business starts with a bold vision and relentless clarity.The leadership habits that create high-performing, connected teams.How curiosity, resilience and lifelong learning become your greatest competitive advantage.Why relationships and mentorship can change the entire trajectory of your life.The difference between growing a business and truly scaling one.How to navigate setbacks, uncertainty and failure without losing sight of your purpose.Why peace, love and meaningful connection may be the greatest measures of success.Ultimately, this episode is a reminder that greatness isn't built overnight. It's created through thousands of small decisions, a willingness to keep learning, and the courage to pursue something bigger than yourself. Because the businesses that endure, and the lives that matter most, are built with purpose, curiosity and heart.Purchase Sarah's book: Living A Life Of Greatness here.To purchase Living A Life of Greatness outside Australia here or here.Watch A Life of Greatness Episodes On Youtube here.Sign up for Sarah's newsletter (Greatness Guide) here.Purchase Sarah's Meditations here.Instagram: @sarahgrynberg Website: https://sarahgrynberg.com/Facebook: facebook.com/sarahgrynbergTwitter: twitter.com/sarahgrynberg Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Industrial water professionals understand flow, pressure, heat exchange, wastewater, boilers, condensers, and process control. Alicia Butler-Pierre brings that same engineering logic into business systems, showing how work, information, decisions, and people move through an organization. Alicia, CEO of Equilibria, joins Trace Blackmore, CWT, to connect process engineering, operations management, Lean Six Sigma, dashboards, professional training, and business infrastructure. Her message is clear: whether you are moving water through a pipeline or work through a company, the question remains the same—how can the process flow more seamlessly?   From Process Engineer to Process Architect Alicia shares how her chemical engineering background shaped the way she sees organizations. Early in her career, she worked around wastewater, boilers, condensers, and heat exchangers, but she also saw a gap between technical operations and business decision-making. That gap eventually led her to business school, entrepreneurship, and the founding of Equilibria. What began as a professional organizing company became an operations management consulting firm focused on processes, systems, Lean Six Sigma, and business infrastructure. For water professionals, this conversation offers a practical reminder: technical improvements often fail to gain support when they are explained only in technical language. Alicia challenges listeners to connect process improvements to business outcomes that accounting, leadership, and customers can understand.   Dashboards, Dollars, and the Cost of Poor Quality Trace and Alicia discuss a familiar challenge in water treatment: a team may know that a technical improvement will raise efficiency or reduce risk, but accounting may only see the capital expense. Alicia's advice is to show the linkage. Dashboards can help different functions see cause and effect. When technical investments are connected to revenue, profitability, customer demand, and operating efficiency, decision-makers can better understand the true value of the work. Alicia also introduces the Lean Six Sigma concept of cost of poor quality. Instead of presenting improvement work as another expense, she encourages professionals to frame it as an investment and show what inaction could cost in dollars and cents.   Lean Six Sigma, Training, and Podcast Education Alicia explains Lean and Six Sigma in clear operational terms. Lean focuses on reducing waste and improving work from a customer-centered perspective. Six Sigma uses statistics and data analysis to reduce defects and errors as close to zero as possible. The conversation also moves into professional education. Alicia describes her podcast training portal, her partnership with the Project Management Institute, and how podcast episodes can support professional development units when paired with quizzes, approval processes, and a structured learning management system. For a technical field built on continuing education, this opens an important question: how can trusted podcast content become part of a more formal learning pathway?   Scaling Knowledge Across Borders Alicia's work has expanded through teaching, online training, micro-courses, podcasting, and international business development. She describes podcasting as a door that gave her access to the world and helped her see the global need for professional education. Her path from process engineer to process architect reinforces a lesson water professionals know well: good systems do not happen by accident. They are designed, tested, improved, and translated into language others can act on. Listen to the full conversation above. Explore related episodes below. Stay engaged, keep learning, and continue scaling up your knowledge!   Connect with Alicia Butler-Pierre  Email: apierre@eqbsystems.com   Website: Equilibria | Lean Six Sigma, Project Management Training via Podcasts   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aliciabutlerpierre/   Equilibria, Inc.: Overview | LinkedIn     Scaling UP! H2O Resources Mentioned  AWT (Association of Water Technologies)  Scaling UP! H2O Academy video courses  Submit a Show Idea  The Rising Tide Mastermind  131 The One About Standard Operating Procedures    Words of Water with James McDonald Today's definition is the pressure of a system measured relative to the surrounding atmospheric pressure.  In other words, it is the pressure of a system above atmospheric pressure.    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 made possible through our valued partners at: 

Ed Cowan is an Australian test cricketer, investor, podcaster and author.He's one of those people whose name I jotted down 6 years ago when I started the show earmarked as a ‘dream guest'.He played in a golden era of Australian cricket and did so at a time when I was obsessed with the sport myself (I had delusions about being a test cricketer) and therefore like the music of your youth those cricketers you grew up with leave a certain impression. I've since been a long time listener of his 'Scaling Up' podcast series and tune in weekly for the ABC Cricket Podcast where he is a co-host.Ed has an occasionally controversial, but always influential voice on the Australian cricketing landscape.It's an absolute pleasure to have recorded this with him.He had 32 test innings for Australia across 18 matches, scored one test hundred and over 1000 runs in total.You'll find a link to both his book and his podcast here. Leave a review on Apple or Spotify (nothing does more to help grow the show)It's an enormous pleasure to have spoken with Ed, we discussed...How Ed always kept a foot in multiple worlds, even though it came at a cost. The transition out of professional sport and why so many athletes struggle with it.His mentor Peter RoebuckMental health in cricket and how the culture has shifted.His Test career: the debut hundred, the weight of expectation, homework-gate, and his illness that coincided with the Ashes and the end of his international career.Ed's views on IPL money, BBL privitisation and governance.The business of cricket: how he'd restructure Cricket Australia, player pay, and bringing patient, evergreen capital into the Big Bash.And, as always, the role serendipity has played in his life, to which, as an opening batsman, he had the perfect answer.Timestamps...00:00 — Realising a cricket career was possible02:17 — Under-19s in Sri Lanka, surrounded by future Test players07:38 — The transition myth: why it's a decade, not twelve months14:08 — Do athletes have too much free time?17:03 — Travel, brooding, and the Matthew Talbot shelter that shifted his perspective27:02 — The Cricinfo depression piece33:31 — NSW's logjam of talent and the fresh start in Tasmania36:30 — Called up to Australia; the left-handed-opener mystery39:36 — Peter Roebuck: discipline, mangoes, and the debut century dedicated to him44:43 — The 18 innings: expectation, emotional regulation, homework-gate50:42 — The Ashes, falling ill, and his final Test54:00 — Resentment, selection, and "perception is reality"55:12 — Death of a Gentleman, the IPL, and cricket's governance crisis1:00:23 — Ambitions in cricket; the ABC podcast as a public service1:08:08 — Privatising the Big Bash and bringing in patient capital1:13:55 — Serendipity, Gideon Haig, and "I was an opening batsman"Some choice snippets from the conversation.On transition out of sport"A lot of sportspeople think transition is your last twelve months of playing and your first twelve months of the real world. That's only a tiny speck of what it actually looks like. You come out of sport and you're at the bottom of the next mountain — you've got the tools to climb it, but that's another journey in and of itself."On identity"One of the thresholds is: do you still think of yourself as a cricketer? It's not part of my identity anymore at all. Some people say, 'You're the guy who used to play cricket.' Yeah, that was me. But that takes a while."On the perspective that pulled him out of a funk (volunteering at the Matthew Talbot shelter)"Here I was brooding over nicking one to second slip the day before. And here are guys who hadn't made any bad choices — they were just out of luck."On the chip on his shoulder"You think I'm not training hard enough? I'll beat you in the beep test. You think I'm not preparing properly? I'll get a hundred on the weekend."On why cricket breeds brooders"The output's objective. There's nothing subjective about getting a twenty-ball duck. And the time lag from error to atonement is long — it can be two days, and you're doing nothing.""The key to good mental health in cricket is celebrating your teammates' success. That's rarer than you'd think."On the fresh start in Tasmania"The joy of a fresh start is you can be whoever you want to be the moment you walk in the door. There's no judgment about what school you went to. You're judged from day one only."On luck (the serendipity close)"Two more centimetres of Morne Morkel's size-fourteen boot behind the line, and I'm out for forty-eight. No one remembers Ed Cowan, Test century.""The harder you work, the luckier you get. Luck can come and find you — but it's up to each individual to make that lucky moment count."On the business of cricket"Our best players probably don't get paid enough, and our worst players get paid too much.""An IPL owner's incentive is not to grow the Big Bash. It's to pillage the Big Bash so the IPL gets stronger."Podcast Starter PacksInvestigative JournalistsOffshore Finance/Kleptocracy & Money LaunderingGeopolitics/Economics/Economic DevelopmentExplorers & AdventurersLeave a review on Apple or Spotify (nothing does more to help grow the show)

Industrial water treatment has always supported industry, but much of that story remains invisible to the public. Paul Petersen wants to change that by helping establish an industrial water treatment presence at the National Museum of Industrial History in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania.   Paul Petersen, former president and CEO of Trident Technologies and current leader of the Industrial Water Task Group, joins Trace Blackmore to explain why preserving the industry's history matters. His vision is not simply a static display of old equipment. Instead, the goal is to create an educational thread throughout the museum that helps visitors understand how water, steam, analytics, field testing, and professional water treaters have shaped industrial progress.   Why Industrial Water Belongs in an Industrial History Museum Paul's idea began during a visit to the National Museum of Industrial History, where he saw a strong celebration of American industrialization but noticed a missing piece: the role water treaters played in making that progress possible.  The museum's location strengthens the story. Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, sits in the Lehigh Valley, a region Paul describes as closely tied to industrialization, steel production, legacy water treatment companies, and heavy industrial water use. The former Bethlehem Steel site offers a fitting backdrop for explaining why water management is central to manufacturing, power, construction, and modern technology.   From Water Wheels to Boilers, Steam, and Field Analytics  The exhibit concept begins with water's physical role in early factories, then follows the shift toward boilers and steam-producing systems. Paul explains that steam boilers do not serve their purpose without water, and they do not operate safely without proper water management.  That opens the door to stories professionals know well: scale, corrosion, pitting, boiler failures, and the consequences of poor control. Paul also highlights another important industry contribution: field analytics. Industrial water treaters were early practitioners of field testing, using water analysis to confirm conditions and adjust treatment programs directly in the field.   Helping the Public Understand What Water Treaters Do  For many professionals, explaining industrial water treatment to people outside the field is a lifelong challenge. Paul sees the museum as an opportunity to make that explanation tangible.  Rather than assuming visitors understand boiler rooms, cooling systems, data centers, sterilization, or process water, the exhibit can connect water treatment to outcomes people recognize: safe facilities, sterile surgical instruments, food quality, operating data centers, and reliable industrial systems.   Preserving Artifacts, Stories, and Career Pathways  Paul is asking the industry to help preserve its history. Companies and individuals may have photographs, reports, testing equipment, boiler failure examples, corrosion artifacts, pitting samples, or stories that can support future exhibits.  The project also has a workforce purpose. By raising the visibility of professional water treaters, Paul hopes the exhibit can help people see industrial water treatment as a meaningful career path that combines chemistry, math, physics, engineering, communication, maintenance, construction, and hydrology.  The industry's history is not just a look backward. It can help explain the value of the work, attract new talent, and strengthen public understanding of why industrial water treatment matters.  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 framing Paul Petersen's work as important not only to industrial water treatment professionals, but also to people outside the field who need to understand what the industry makes possible  03:20 — The 2026 American Chemical Society Fall Conference is highlighted as a major chemistry gathering with relevance for water treatment professionals, chemists, chemical engineers, and technical leaders.  05:00 — Trace previews The Hang on July 9 at 1 PM Eastern, emphasizing peer connection, practical networking, and a more accessible time for participation.  06:30 — Industrial Water Week is announced for October 5–9, with each day focused on a core area of the industry: pretreatment, boilers, cooling, wastewater, and careers.  08:50 — James McDonald returns with Words of Water  10:30 — Trace introduces Paul Petersen, former president and CEO of Trident Technologies, and his current work leading the Industrial Water Task Group's museum exhibit initiative  11:15 — Paul shares how growing up in Tucson, Arizona, shaped his appreciation for water and helped set the foundation for a career in industrial water treatment.  12:10 — Paul describes his early work as an analytical technician, where testing cooling tower, boiler, and process water built his practical foundation in water chemistry  14:00 — Paul explains the growth of Trident Technologies, including work in Southern California, Mexico, Latin America, and the company's eventual sale in 2009.  15:20 — Paul reflects on how technology changed the industry, from cell phones and email to automation, AI, and the broader availability of technical information.  17:00 — Trace and Paul discuss AI's potential value in reporting, trend identification, interpretation, and communication, while reinforcing the need to validate outputs.  18:00 — Paul explains how a 2019 visit to historic sites and the National Museum of Industrial History led to the idea for an industrial water treatment exhibit.  20:00 — Paul identifies the missing piece in the museum's industrial story: the role water treaters played in supporting the success of industrialization.  21:40 — Paul explains why the museum concept may become a thread throughout the museum rather than one standalone exhibit, helping visitors see water's role across industries.  22:50 — Paul explains why Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, the Lehigh Valley, and the former Bethlehem Steel site provide a natural setting for telling the story of industrial water.  26:40 — Paul describes how modern museum visitors expect interactive learning and why the exhibit must help the public think critically about water beyond everyday household use.  28:10 — Paul outlines the first exhibit themes around steam, boilers, boiler failures, the Sultana disaster, field analytics, and historical testing methods.  31:55 — Paul discusses the lifelong challenge of explaining industrial water treatment to the public and connecting the work to boiler rooms, hospitals, food quality, data centers, and daily life.  34:10 — Paul shares the current exhibit status, including the first phase and a model boiler that will help visitors see what happens inside a boiler.  35:20 — Paul invites water professionals and companies to contribute artifacts, photographs, explanations, stories, and supporting materials that can help tell the industry's story.  36:50 — Paul addresses a key misconception: water should not be taken for granted, and "good water" depends entirely on the application.  39:05 — Paul connects the exhibit to workforce visibility, explaining how it can help present industrial water treatment as a meaningful career path.  40:40 — Paul describes his long-term vision for visitors to see how water supports industries from steel and papermaking to microprocessors and modern technology.  42:40 — Paul explains that the project needs financial support, sponsorship, and leadership from companies and individuals who want to preserve the industry's story.  44:20 — Paul closes the main conversation by emphasizing the importance of preserving industrial water history while the future continues to move quickly.  50:00 — Paul shares what he wishes more people understood about the industry: water is part of nearly every major story, and professional water treaters help keep society functioning.  51:30 — Trace recaps why Paul's museum work matters, how the industry can contribute, and how the exhibit can help the public understand the role of industrial water treaters  55:20 — Trace closes with Paul's advice to seek mentors, learn the business side as well as the chemistry, and never take water for granted    Quotes  "They're really celebrating industrial history in America. But what's missing is the role that we played as water treaters in support of the success of industrialization."  "Here's an opportunity for us to share the knowledge that we have as water treatment professionals with the public to engage their thinking, their critical thinking about water."  "What is good water? And my answer to that is, what do you want to do with it?"  "What we do as professional water treaters is truly an important thing. And, you know, I never forget that."  "I'm part of the past, but I think our rich history should be presented in an exhibit for all to enjoy at the museum."  "I would like to build better bridges, more bridges."  "Just not taking the resource of water for granted."    Connect with Paul Petersen Email:  pwpetersen@mac.com   Website: https://www.nmih.org/     Guest Resources Mentioned   History In the Making - National Museum of Industrial History Water and Steam Boiler Initiative - Industrial Water Task Group - National Museum of Industrial History Hagley Museum and Library  Hagley Powder Yard Trail The Newcomen Society Bethlehem Steel Corporation Duval Sierrita Corporation ChemTreat Danaher ChemTreat Acquisition Announcement Sultana Disaster Museum Pea Ridge National Military Park Presents Program about The Sultana Disaster  National Museum of Industrial History and Historic Bethlehem Museums & Sites Launch New Joint Field Trip Exploring Bethlehem's Industrial Heritage    Scaling UP! H2O Resources Mentioned  AWT (Association of Water Technologies)  Scaling UP! H2O Academy video courses  Submit a Show Idea    Words of Water with James McDonald Today's definition is the air temperature measured by a standard, dry thermometer exposed to the air but shielded from radiation.  Often associated with cooling towers in our line of work.    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 made possible through our valued partners at: 

Water utility work depends on more than technical knowledge. It depends on clear procedures, current documents, practical training, and performance conversations that reflect what operators actually do in the field.  In Episode 481, Trace Blackmore, CWT, welcomes back Kalpna Solanki, President and CEO at GAMECHANGERS Inc., for a practical conversation on building stronger utilities through standard operating procedures, competencies, and performance evaluations. Kalpna shares how outdated SOPs, disconnected training tools, and top-down documentation can create risk, confusion, and missed learning opportunities.    SOPs That Match the Work  Kalpna defines an SOP as a documented process that provides clear instructions for specific tasks or activities. Her current work with water utilities includes procedures for water main installation, flushing, customer complaints, meter installation, meter readings, and other distribution team responsibilities.  The key issue is not whether an organization has SOPs. Many do. The bigger question is whether those documents still match the field reality. Kalpna describes reviewing SOPs that reference retired staff, outdated contact information, and procedures written by people who may no longer be close to the work.  Her approach starts with the operators. The people doing the work help revise the documents, confirm what is accurate, and identify what needs to change. Revision dates, organized SOP libraries, and clear naming structures help teams avoid using the wrong version.    From Procedures to Competencies  Kalpna explains that SOPs should not sit alone in a file system. They should inform competency frameworks that define the knowledge, skills, abilities, and behaviors needed for the job.  For example, an SOP may explain how to perform a fire hydrant teardown. A related competency tool can help confirm whether an operator knows how to do that work safely and correctly. The results can then guide mentoring, training, and performance evaluation.  This turns performance evaluation into a two-way process. Rather than simply telling employees what they did or did not do, supervisors can use competency checklists to identify gaps, determine needed resources, and support development.    Field Access, Video, and Ownership  Kalpna also shares how the Capital Regional District project extends SOPs beyond written documents. Once an SOP is revised and approved, her team creates a field video using operators as the subjects. The video is tied back to the written SOP, giving employees the option to read, watch, or use both formats depending on how they learn best.  QR codes make the system even more useful. Operators can scan a code in the field and access the relevant SOP or video without leaving the work location, searching a large document library, or relying on memory.  That access matters. As Kalpna puts it, when processes are too complicated, people are more likely to wing it. In water utility work, that can affect safety, consistency, compliance, and service quality.    Water Stories and Water Reuse  Kalpna also shares her personal water story, from growing up near the Zambezi River and Victoria Falls to living near the Thames River in London and later near protected watersheds in Vancouver. Her experiences shape how she thinks about water availability, source protection, and the responsibility of the industry.  The conversation closes with a look at the Vancouver Convention Centre West, where a full-scale wastewater treatment facility operates beneath the building. Treated effluent is reused for toilet flushing and rooftop garden irrigation, reducing freshwater demand and municipal sewer load.  For Kalpna, this points to a larger shift in language and mindset. Wastewater is not simply waste. It is a resource with future value for reuse, reclamation, and water-stressed industries.  Listen to the full conversation above. Explore related episodes below. Stay engaged, keep learning, and continue scaling up your knowledge!  Timestamps  01:10 — Trace welcomes Kalpna Solanki back and notes her previous Scaling UP! H2O appearance in Episode 435 on backflow prevention.  01:50 — Kalpna shares what has changed since her last visit, including the launch of GAMECHANGERS Inc. and her work with nonprofits, government agencies, and water utilities.  02:40 — Kalpna explains the two criteria she uses when choosing where to contribute: the opportunity to contribute and the opportunity to learn.  03:40 — Kalpna introduces the Water Environment Federation and its broad role in the water sector, with a strong focus on wastewater.  04:10 — The conversation turns to WEFTEC, AI, data centers, and the Water AI Nexus Center for Excellence.  08:20 — Kalpna defines an SOP as a documented process that provides clear instructions for specific tasks or activities.  08:40 — Kalpna describes her work with the Capital Regional District and water distribution teams serving more than 400,000 people with drinking water.  09:40 — Kalpna explains why SOPs should be developed with field staff, not only by managers who may be removed from day-to-day operations.  10:40 — SOPs connect to competencies by defining the knowledge, skills, abilities, and behaviors employees need to perform work effectively.  11:40 — Kalpna frames performance evaluation as a two-way process for identifying training needs, resources, and competency gaps.  13:00 — Trace asks how organizations can align SOPs with what operators actually do in the field.  13:20 — Kalpna describes the risk of dated SOPs, including documents that reference retired staff or obsolete contact information.  14:00 — Kalpna explains how SOP nomenclature and organized folders help operators find the current procedure quickly.  15:30 — The discussion shifts to video-based SOPs that support different learning styles and increase field usability.  19:50 — Kalpna adds that QR codes can take operators directly to the relevant SOP and linked video in the field.  20:25 — Kalpna explains why simplicity matters: if the process is too complicated, people are more likely to wing it.  21:10 — Safety enters the competency discussion, with Kalpna explaining why SOP-based competencies can better reflect actual field work.  22:20 — Kalpna outlines her starting process with a utility: review the SOPs, determine what is dated or missing, divide them by operational area, and prioritize revisions.  24:10 — Kalpna describes how SOPs for water main upgrades can be translated into a competency framework.  25:00 — Technical and leadership competencies are discussed, including behavioral indicators that supervisors can use with operators.  26:30 — Kalpna introduces application exams, remote proctoring, and future AI-assisted marking as part of the hiring process.  28:05 — The conversation turns to culture, ownership, and how staff involvement can create empowerment rather than top-down compliance.  29:55 — Kalpna urges listeners to look at the intersection between SOPs, competencies, and performance evaluations.  32:40 — Kalpna shares her personal water story, beginning with childhood walks near the Zambezi River and Victoria Falls.  34:15 — Kalpna connects her experiences in London and Vancouver to water availability, source protection, and the value of safe drinking water.  37:00 — In the lightning round, Kalpna describes her superpower as seeing organizations from a high-level perspective and imagining what they could become.  38:35 — Kalpna shares a major accomplishment: leading a CRM project that succeeded because the people doing the work were involved.  40:25 — Kalpna discusses a water operator training and certification project in Kenya with Water Professionals International and GAMECHANGERS Inc.  41:55 — Kalpna answers the magic wand question with the Water Environment Federation vision statement: "life free of water challenges."  43:10 — Kalpna recommends five books spanning personal values, scaling systems, resilience, memoir, and nonprofit governance.    Quotes "When it comes to how that leads to competencies, competencies refer to the knowledge, skills, abilities, and behaviors that employees need to perform their job effectively."  "Because I think if things are too complicated, people are going to be more tempted to wing it."  "I need their feedback to get the reality of their job on a day-to-day basis."  "I think that one of the key things is really look at the intersection between SOPs, competencies and performance evaluations."  "Life free of water challenges."  "We talk about wastewater, but it's not waste really, it's a resource."    Connect with Kalpna Solanki  Email: ksolanki@gamechangerssolutions.com  Website: GAMECHANGERS Inc. | Strategy Development And Implementation  LinkedIn: Kalpna Solanki MBA | LinkedIn  GAMECHANGERS Inc.: Overview | LinkedIn     Guest Resources Mentioned   Bridging Continents Through Clean Water: Mike Firlotte and Paul Bishop Lead Operator Training and Pinning in Kenya     Scaling UP! H2O Resources Mentioned  AWT (Association of Water Technologies)  Scaling UP! H2O Academy video courses  Submit a Show Idea  The Rising Tide Mastermind  355 Backflow Prevention: Safeguarding Water Quality   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. 

Urenco's chief commercial officer Laurent Odeh joins us and outlines how the leading uranium enrichment company is expanding its operations in the US, the Netherlands and Germany to meet the growing demand for nuclear fuel. Demand which is coming from both existing units and also some of the growing numbers of advanced reactors in development.He talks about the company's history and the experience it has gained, including the decisions it had to take during the 2010s and how they fit in with what is now a record order book for Urenco's services.Odeh says that it is quicker to expand enrichment capacity than it is to build a new nuclear power plant, so is confident that enrichment services will be able to keep track with any rapid future nuclear energy capacity growth.He also gives an update on Urenco's development of LEU+ and HALEU fuel capabilities, as well as talking about the medical isotopes business that Urenco is growing, plus the decommissioning side of its work.And, in a wide-ranging discussion, Odeh says what he wants to see governments doing to help support the nuclear fuel cycle and wider nuclear energy growth in the years ahead.Key links to find out more:UrencoUrenco to build new US enrichment plant capacityWorld Nuclear NewsEmail newsletter:Sign up to the World Nuclear News daily or weekly news round-upsContact info:alex.hunt@world-nuclear.orgEpisode credit:  Presenter Alex Hunt. Co-produced and mixed by Pixelkisser Production

 Industrial water professionals work with chemistry, equipment, permits, and performance targets every day. Yet every gallon also moves through a framework of policy decisions: who can withdraw water, how it may be used, what quality must be returned, and whose needs are considered when systems are designed.  Sherine El-Wattar, a science network officer supporting the IPCC Working Group II Technical Support Unit, brings an engineering foundation and a human-centered perspective to those questions. Her work focuses on climate impacts, adaptation, vulnerability, and risk while helping connect scientific assessments with communities and professional groups beyond the traditional research environment.    Water Systems Are Never Neutral  Pipelines, treatment plants, reuse programs, and flood-control infrastructure solve technical problems. However, Sherine encourages engineers and decision-makers to ask additional questions: Who benefits from the system? Who might be harmed? Whose assumptions are built into the equations? What local realities might the numbers overlook?  Her master's research illustrates the importance of that lens. Sherine compared remote-sensing indicators of agricultural productivity with the day-to-day practices of farmers near Cairo. A digital map could classify land as productive or unproductive, but the view from the ground revealed practices shaped by long-term care for the soil and water. The lesson is not to dismiss data. It is to understand what the data may not capture.    Water Risk Depends on Context  Water scarcity, flooding, infrastructure resilience, and climate adaptation do not look the same in every region. Culture, institutions, belief systems, and lived experience shape how communities define risk and how they respond to water policy.  Sherine describes climate-related water risk through a straightforward frame: too much water or too little water. The solutions, however, require deeper attention to local conditions. A technically sound recommendation may still fall short if it overlooks the people affected by the decision.    Practical Steps for Water Professionals  For utilities, facilities, and water-sector businesses, Sherine recommends exploring water footprint concepts and water stewardship. She also emphasizes authentic connection: listen before trying to fix a problem, communicate without judgment, and build awareness through relationships.  Industrial water treaters already hold valuable knowledge. Sharing that expertise with operators, communities, policymakers, and professionals from other disciplines can improve the quality of future water decisions.  Listen to the full conversation above. Explore related episodes below. Stay engaged, keep learning, and continue scaling up your knowledge!    Timestamps 02:10 — Trace explains why water and policy are inseparable, even when daily work appears focused on equipment, chemistry, permits, and profitability. 05:10 — Upcoming industry events highlight opportunities to stay current on utility operations, infrastructure, compliance, data integration, and water-quality challenges. 08:50 — Sherine El-Wattar joins the conversation and clarifies the IPCC acronym before introducing her work in water governance and climate adaptation. 11:30 — Sherine reflects on the value of combining engineering problem-solving with water systems that serve society. 12:00 — Sherine describes her role supporting IPCC Working Group II and the two responsibilities she balances: science and networking. 14:10 — The discussion explores how expert reviewers can contribute perspectives from law, finance, health, youth organizations, Indigenous communities, and other fields. 15:30 — Sherine explains why communication must shift depending on whether the audience includes public communities or government representatives. 17:10 — Water is compared to language: local culture, institutions, and belief systems influence how risk and equity are understood. 19:50 — Sherine unpacks water as a story of people, power, and justice rather than only a network of pipes and treatment systems. 22:00 — A human-centric approach asks who benefits, who may be harmed, whose knowledge informs the system, and what the assumptions may cost. 24:40 — Sherine describes the Netherlands' Delta Works as an example of infrastructure shaped by risk, institutional capacity, and long-term water management. 27:10 — Sherine shares how her master's studies shifted her understanding of water from a technical discipline toward the science-policy interface. 29:40 — Her research compares remote-sensing indicators with farmers' lived practices near Cairo, revealing the limits of relying on aggregated data alone. 33:30 — Trace and Sherine explore how professionals can respect culture and tradition while still supporting education and improvement. 35:50 — Sherine recommends water footprint concepts and water stewardship as practical starting points for organizations planning for climate adaptation. 38:20 — The conversation examines the mismatch between climate risk and the depth of current responses to too much or too little water. 41:50 — Sherine encourages professionals to connect water awareness with personal reflection, professional networks, and conversations that influence behavior   Connect with Sherine El-Wattar  Phone: +31646914589  Email: selwattar@gmail.com  Website: IPCC — Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change  https://www.linkedin.com/company/ipcc/  LinkedIn: Sherine El-Wattar | LinkedIn    Quotes "And I really liked how, you know, engineering is all about the numbers, solving problems, and finding a way to create a system that serves society." "I have been humbled enough to know you cannot force policymakers to think anything." "For us to balance these things, it's about, it starts with understanding." "I really hope I would live to see the day where taking care of water or being water conscious is the new trend."   Guest Resources Mentioned  Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change: Working Group II IPCC Working Group II: Climate Change 2022: Impacts, Adaptation and Vulnerability  IPCC: What Is an Expert Reviewer of IPCC Reports? Engage with the IPCC The Water Footprint Assessment Manual: Setting the Global Standard Alliance for Water Stewardship (AWS) Standard  IHE Delft: Water Governance  IHE Delft: Governance and Management Profile The History of the Delta Works FAO WaPOR: Remote Sensing for Water Productivity A Million Little Pieces by James Frey (Author) Paperback   Scaling UP! H2O Resources Mentioned  AWT (Association of Water Technologies)  Scaling UP! H2O Academy video courses  Submit a Show Idea  The Rising Tide Mastermind  What Is Water Footprint Assessment? UNU Institute for Water, Environment and Health: Global Water Bankruptcy   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.   

Many aspiring investors think they need a lot of money, experience, or the perfect market to get started in real estate. Soli Cayetano proves otherwise. In this episode of The Real Wealth Show, Kathy Fettke sits down with Soli to discuss how she bought her first out-of-state rental property while still in college, scaled to 25 units in her first year, raised millions in private capital, and eventually transitioned into boutique hotel investing.   Soli shares the lessons she learned building an out-of-state portfolio, raising private money, partnering with investors, and growing from a $98,000 rental property to multi-million-dollar hospitality projects. Whether you're just getting started or looking to scale your portfolio, this conversation offers practical insights on taking the next step in your investing journey.   Looking for beginner-friendly real estate investing resources? Download our recommended books and guides at www.RealWealth.com/BeginnerBooks.   Timestamps: 00:00 – Intro 01:19 – RealWealth Beginner Books Resource 01:30 – Soli's Beginning in Real Estate 04:30 – Investing Out of State 06:00 – Building an Out-of-State Team 07:40 – 25 Units in One Year & Raising Private Money 09:39 – The First Private Money Deal 11:02 – Private Money Terms Explained 12:05 – Equity Deals & Key Lessons Learned 13:14 – Soli's Money Upbringing 16:00 – Transitioning Into Boutique Hotels 19:30 – Soli's Five-Year Vision 21:00 – Starting Small and Scaling Up 23:17 – Outro   DISCLAIMER The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are provided for informational purposes only, and should not be construed as an offer to buy or sell any securities or to make or consider any investment or course of action. For more information, go to www.RealWealthShow.com.

In today's episode of Scaling UP! H2O, host Trace Blackmore sits down with workplace resilience expert and U.S. Marine veteran Tiffany Wentz‑Root to decode how different generations show up in the industrial water treatment industry. From the Silent Generation's post‑war loyalties through Baby Boomers' commitment to long hours, Gen X's distrust of corporate loyalty, Millennials' desire for purpose and feedback, and Gen Z's demand for emotional literacy, the conversation illustrates how each cohort was shaped by historical and technological upheaval. The discussion reframes "hustle culture" and argues that a focus on mental health and values alignment can increase retention and performance. Generations and the events that shaped them Tiffany explains that generations are roughly 20–30 year cohorts defined by shared formative experiences. The Silent Generation (1928‑45) endured the Great Depression and World War II; Baby Boomers (1946‑64) were taught loyalty and stability; Gen X (1965‑80) witnessed mass layoffs and became fiercely independent; Millennials (1981‑96) were helicopter parented and accustomed to participation trophies; and Gen Z (1997‑2012) grew up online, socializing via games and apps and weathering school shootings and a pandemic. These histories explain why Baby Boomers and Gen X equate "hard work" with hours logged, whereas Millennials and Gen Z measure effort by pride, alignment and emotional impact. Gen Z's exposure to constant online crises makes them the "anxious and afraid generation" with record rates of anxiety and depression, highlighting the need for supportive leadership.   Hustle culture versus emotional literacy The conversation challenges the idea that toughness equals success. Wentz‑Root stresses that leaders must "stop prizing strength" and recognize that feeling and processing emotions is hard work. She advocates for environments where people can bring their whole selves to work rather than suppressing feelings in order to conform to traditional hustle culture. She notes that Gen Z sees phone calls as "prehistoric" and prefers to communicate via apps like Snapchat or Discord, so older professionals should adapt their communication style—using fewer capital letters, punctuation and more emojis or GIFs—to avoid appearing angry or dismissive. For water treatment companies seeking to recruit young professionals, she urges them to articulate company values and support mental health, because Gen Z will leave if work doesn't align with their skills or passions. Practical strategies for leaders and organizations To bridge the generational divide, Wentz‑Root proposes creating a "social contract": a collaboratively defined set of values, behaviors and communication norms that are revisited regularly. Such agreements encourage teams to discuss how they prefer to give and receive feedback, when to use Slack versus meetings, and what good work looks like across ages. She also recommends structured cross‑mentorship, matching senior employees who are nearing retirement with junior colleagues based on skills rather than age, so institutional knowledge isn't lost. She cautions against judging younger staff as entitled or weak; rather, leaders should ask why behaviors exist and treat differences as strengths. Lastly, she reminds Baby Boomers and Gen Xers that sharing decades of hard‑earned experience with Gen Z isn't charity—it's how you build a legacy and ensure the industry thrives. For water‑treatment professionals, recognizing that "different doesn't mean wrong" can unlock better collaboration, innovation and resilience. By replacing judgment with curiosity, establishing social contracts and mentorship programs, and adapting communication to younger workers, leaders can turn generational tension into an asset. Listen to the full conversation above. Explore related episodes below. Stay engaged, keep learning, and continue scaling up your knowledge! Timestamps 02:32 — Trace Blackmore introduces the episode and sets the context: exploring generational dynamics in the industrial water treatment community 09:20 — Tiffany Wentz‑Root introduces herself as a Marine Corps veteran and therapist who helps corporations improve communication, empathy and resilience. 15:07 — Definition of a "generation" and how cohort boundaries from Silent Generation to Gen Alpha are defined 18:06 — Examination of how Baby Boomers were taught loyalty and work stability, Gen X learned independence after witnessing mass layoffs, and Millennials received participation trophies and craved feedback 00:24:33 — Wentz‑Root calls for leaders to stop equating strength with suppressing emotion; feeling and processing emotions is difficult work 25:02 — Gen Z is described as the anxious and afraid generation with record levels of anxiety, depression and suicide, shaped by school shootings and constant online news 27:03 — Contrasting COVID experiences: Trace led a team through uncertainty, while Tiffany's son saw the lockdown as "awesome" because he stayed home playing games. 28:41 — Discussion of how Gen Z socializes through apps like Snapchat, Discord and Steam; texting is archaic and phone calls are "prehistoric" 32:09 — Panel reflections: Baby Boomers and Gen X define hard work by hours worked, Millennials by pride in results, and Gen Z by alignment with skills and passions 33:37 — Tiffany emphasizes that "different doesn't mean wrong," urging listeners to see younger workers' needs as strengths 40:26 — Introduction of social contracts: teams co‑create values, behaviors and communication norms to bridge generational expectations 42:42 — The role of cross‑generational mentorship; match people by skill and career stage, not age, and leverage Gen Z's expertise with tech and communication platforms 01:13:26 — Trace's closing reflections: in male‑dominated, hustle‑driven industries, ignoring emotions isn't sustainable; sharing knowledge now ensures a legacy and a thriving future   Quotes "We need to stop prizing strength first and foremost. We need to understand that emotions are very difficult to face. To feel your feelings, to name them, to process them—that's hard" "When I asked, 'What's your definition of hard work?' the baby boomer said, 'I put in a lot of hours.' Gen X said, 'I put in a lot of hours.' Millennials said, 'I get the job done and I'm proud of it.' Gen Z said, 'It's when the work that I've done aligns with my skills and my passions, and I feel good about what I did'" "Judgment kills curiosity … When I see someone of a different generation with a different way of communicating, I automatically go, 'That's bad, that's weird.' Instead, I want you to step into curiosity and say, 'Why would they do that? What happened in their life that shaped them to be this person?'"   Connect with Tiffany Wentz-Root Phone: (425) 359-5088 Email: tiffany@resilientroots.com Website: resilientroots.com  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tiffanywentz-root/    Guest Resources Mentioned  Generational Diversity Outline  Bridging the Gap: Navigating Generational Diversity at Work 17776: What football will look like in the future by Jon Bois Pity the Reader: On Writing with Style (Paperback) by Kurt Vonnegut (Author), Suzanne McConnell (Author) Washington's Farewell: The Founding Father's Warning to Future Generations by John Avlon   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 ion with a net negative charge, formed when an atom or molecule gains one or more electrons. Examples include bicarbonate, chloride, and sulfate. 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.   

Welcome back to the gohappybeauty podcast! In today's episode, host Grant Kantsios sits down with Lauren Abrams, the founder of Spray Tans by Lauren, to explore her impressive journey through the spray tan industry. With nearly 15 years of experience, Lauren Abrams shares how she built her first business from scratch in Atlanta, sold it, pursued exciting opportunities in the film and bridal industries, and ultimately launched a successful second venture. Tune in to hear Lauren Abrams discuss the evolution of spray tanning, the importance of patience and self-care in business growth, strategies for attracting clients in competitive markets, and her advice for those looking to turn a passion into a thriving brand. Whether you're considering starting your own beauty business or looking for inspiration to take your existing business to the next level, this episode is packed with actionable insights and real-world wisdom.

Power plant water and steam chemistry does not fail in isolation. A mistaken unit, an unused analyzer, an overdesigned pretreatment system, or a misunderstood condensate return problem can ripple across equipment, permits, production, and safety. In this Part 2 conversation with Bradley Buecker of SAMCO Technologies and Buecker Associates, Trace Blackmore continues a practical discussion on the details that shape industrial water decisions. Brad shares field stories from combined cycle plants, package boilers, wastewater permitting, membrane systems, and decades of technical writing.   When Small Errors Become Expensive Problems Brad opens with a story about a wastewater permitting issue where parts per million and parts per billion were confused in a discharge permit. The result was not just a paperwork problem. Once the stricter limits were accepted by regulators, meeting those limits would have required more complex and expensive wastewater treatment equipment. That story is a reminder for water professionals reviewing RFPs, permits, and engineering specifications. Precision matters before a project is built, not after the limits have already been approved. Brad also discusses PFAS with appropriate caution. He does not present himself as a PFAS expert, but he connects the conversation to zero liquid discharge, brine concentrators, crystallizers, and the unresolved question of what happens to solids when contaminants are concentrated rather than discharged.   Membranes, Discharge, and the Changing Water Balance Looking across more than four decades in the industry, Brad points to membranes as one of the major changes in power plant water treatment. He discusses how reverse osmosis extended ion exchange demineralizer run times, and how microfiltration and ultrafiltration improved water quality going to RO systems. However, Brad also makes clear that better pretreatment does not remove every operational question. RO reject remains a substantial discharge stream. Meanwhile, the movement away from once-through cooling toward cooling towers has changed how plants think about water consumption, evaporation, discharge, and resource availability. For professionals managing water in power and industrial systems, the episode reinforces a practical lesson: every improvement has a system-level consequence that must be understood.   The Real Cost of "Lean and Mean" Brad uses the phrase "lean and mean" to describe how some combined cycle plants are staffed. In one example, a plant had a comprehensive online chemistry monitoring system installed, but it had never been turned on because the staff did not have the experience to maintain or interpret it. In another case, a groundwater-based makeup system included seven-layer multimedia filters even though groundwater typically has very few particulates. Brad could not make a categorical conclusion without a full analysis, but the story raises an important question: are we solving the actual water problem, or simply buying equipment? He also shares a case from an organic chemicals plant with four 550 PSI package boilers. The plant returned 80 to 90 percent of its condensate, but total organic carbon levels were far above the ASME recommended limit for that pressure boiler. Foam in the saturated steam samples helped point to carryover into the superheaters, where scale was building up inside the tubes.   Learning, Mentorship, and Leaving the Industry Better Beyond the technical stories, Brad's message is clear: professionals who keep learning are better prepared to make sound decisions. He encourages newer water treaters to study strong water treatment handbooks, talk to experienced people, and physically connect chemistry data to the equipment and processes in the plant. For those nearing retirement, Brad offers a different kind of challenge: pass along what you know while there is still time. He and Trace discuss how sharing experience strengthens the next generation instead of threatening the people who already hold knowledge. The episode closes with a reminder that water is central to manufacturing, power generation, and daily life. Keeping the lights on and protecting water resources both require people who understand the systems behind the scenes. Listen to the full conversation above. Explore related episodes below. Stay engaged, keep learning, and continue scaling up your knowledge!   Timestamps  02:16 — Trace introduces Part 2 of his conversation with Bradley Buecker and sets up the continuation of a technical discussion on power plant water and steam chemistry. 04:10 — Trace asks Brad about a case where an engineering firm confused parts per million and parts per billion in wastewater permitting. 05:38 — Brad explains how NPDES discharge permits shape what a new plant must control before construction and operation. 06:35 — Brad describes how some constituents with typical PPM limits were submitted as PPB, creating a much stricter compliance problem. 07:18 — Brad explains why trying to meet unnecessarily low PPB limits can require exotic wastewater treatment equipment. 07:51 — Trace pivots the conversation to PFAS, and Brad responds carefully by acknowledging the importance of the issue while noting that he is not a PFAS expert. 08:34 — Brad connects PFAS concerns to zero liquid discharge, brine concentrators, crystallizers, and the question of what happens to concentrated solids. 11:27 — Brad identifies membranes as one of the major industry changes he has seen across more than four decades. 11:44 — Brad explains how RO systems placed ahead of ion exchange demineralizers extended operating run times in power plant makeup water treatment. 12:35 — Brad notes that membrane systems still create discharge challenges, including substantial RO reject streams. 13:23 — Brad discusses the shift away from once-through cooling and how cooling towers changed the water consumption picture for power plants. 16:14 — Trace asks Brad about the phrase "lean and mean," opening a discussion about staffing, expertise, and hidden operational risk. 17:25 — Brad shares a case where a comprehensive online chemistry monitoring system had never been turned on because the plant lacked the right technical support. 18:31 — Brad describes a groundwater-based makeup system with a seven-layer multimedia filtration setup and raises the question of whether the equipment fit the actual water source. 20:39 — Brad introduces a case involving four 550 PSI package boilers at an organic chemicals plant producing superheated steam for process use. 21:30 — Brad explains that 80 to 90 percent condensate return, high TOC readings, and foaming in saturated steam samples pointed toward carryover into the superheaters. 23:29 — Brad summarizes the risk of cutting too deeply: being lean and mean can cost more in the long run. 23:55 — Brad reflects on the importance of continuous learning and shares his regret about not pursuing a master's program in environmental science. 25:19 — Trace shares his father's advice to leave the industry better than he found it, and Brad connects that idea to sharing safety-critical knowledge. 29:25 — Brad advises newer professionals to learn the basics, study reliable water treatment handbooks, and connect lab work to real plant systems. 35:32 — Brad thanks retiring professionals and encourages them to pass along practical knowledge to younger people while they still have time. 37:23 — Brad explains what people outside the industry should understand about water's role in manufacturing, power generation, and daily life.   Quotes  "Those are very important because if something goes south chemistry-wise at a power plant, you need to know very quickly." "You can be lean and mean, but it can cost you a lot more in the long run." "If you have any ambition or interest at all, continue learning." "If you pass along your information and give younger people a chance to do something, give them some responsibility, it just pays off much more."   Connect with Bradley Buecker  Email: bueckerb@samcotech.com   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bradley-buecker-705b9021/  Website: Water & Wastewater Treatment Solutions | SAMCO Technologies   Guest Resources Mentioned   US EPA - National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES)  Buecker & Associates, LLC - Consulting and Technical Writing  Beware of Flow-Accelerated Corrosion – Brad Buecker, Kiewit Engineering Group  Muck Rack – Brad Buecker Articles    Scaling UP! H2O Resources Mentioned  AWT (Association of Water Technologies)  Scaling UP! H2O Academy video courses  Submit a Show Idea  The Rising Tide Mastermind  477 Rethinking Power Plant Water and Steam Chemistry with Brad Buecker (Part 1)    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.     

SOLARCYCLE CEO Suvi Sharma sits down with CleanTechnica CEO Zach Shahan to discuss the fascinating history of the solar market and the next key task for the industry — recycling solar panels. Suvi shares how SOLARCYCLE is helping with that, and how it is working to make the process as green and effective as possible. Suvi's timing has been superb throughout the growth of the solar industry, and it looks like he's nailing it again by developing superb solar panel recycling systems and factories before the market explodes in its demand for them.

SOLARCYCLE CEO Suvi Sharma sits down with CleanTechnica CEO Zach Shahan to discuss the fascinating history of the solar market and the next key task for the industry — recycling solar panels. Suvi shares how SOLARCYCLE is helping with that, and how it is working to make the process as green and effective as possible. Suvi's timing has been superb throughout the growth of the solar industry, and it looks like he's nailing it again by developing superb solar panel recycling systems and factories before the market explodes in its demand for them.

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. 

The World Health Organisation has sent six tonnes of medical supplies to the Democratic Republic of Congo as it continues to sound the alarm over the scale of the Ebola outbreak in central Africa. We hear why the authorities are battling against the widespread local belief that symptoms are caused not by the Ebola virus, but witchcraft.Also, a look ahead to today's primary contests in the United States with Kentucky becoming the most expensive race ever, and the former President of Honduras, Juan Orlando Hernandez, tells our correspondent why he believes he was the victim of “lawfare” and “a witch-hunt” by a vindictive Biden Administration.(Photo: Fatima Tafida, the Regional Supply Chain Lead for Emergencies at the World Health Organization's (WHO) Regional Office for Africa pastes stickers on shipment pallets as the WHO mobilises 4.7 tonnes of essential medical supplies and emergency kits to support the affected regions in response to the Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo, 18 May, 2026. Credit: World Health Organization/Handout /Reuters)

 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. 

Erika Gangsei has run the interpretive media team at SFMOMA for nearly two decades, and for 15 of those years she's been quietly building one of the most coherent game-based programming initiatives inside any major cultural institution in the country.In this conversation, we get into the origins of Play SFMOMA, which launched in 2011, before games as an art form had any real institutional legitimacy, and what it actually took to sustain a program built on deliberate experimentation rather than proven outcomes. Erika talks about the decision to treat game designers the way SFMOMA treats sound artists and filmmakers: as essential creative collaborators, not afterthoughts. She makes a sharp distinction between gamification (which museums were chasing then, and still are) and authentic game-based programming — and explains why that difference matters for visitors.We also talk about the institutional immune system. Erika uses the phrase literally: museums have white blood cells that attack unfamiliar things, and Play SFMOMA has spent 15 years slowly inoculating SFMOMA to interactivity. That means running an AR game jam knowing none of the prototypes would go into production, because the goal was to socialize the idea internally, not ship a product.Other topics: why interpretive departments may actually be a better entry point for games than curatorial, the case for analog and paper-based work in a screen-fatigued world, what it means when a founder-driven program finally becomes an entity unto itself, and the LARPocracy research project—an EU Horizon-funded study using Nordic LARP as a model for deliberative democracy.This one is essential listening if you're inside an institution trying to build something with games and doing it without a clear mandate from above.(00:00) - Meet Erika and Play (01:08) - Broadway Trip Catch Up (03:19) - Origin Story to SFMOMA (08:14) - Why Play SFMOMA Started (13:38) - Where Games Belong (29:01) - Analog Play and Fatigue (34:48) - Scaling Up and Larpocracy For more insights, signup for my newsletter.Jamin Warren founded Gameplayarts, an advisory that helps museums and cultural organizations engage with the world of gaming. He provides them with the research, strategy, and execution they need to reach gamers for the first–or millionth–time. Gameplayarts' past and present clients organizations like MoMA, the Getty Research Institute, Tribeca Enterprises, and PBS.

In this episode, worker-owner Monica Ponce of Love is Love Cooperative Farm shares how they strategize over scaling up their farming operation as a cooperative.    Subscribe for more content on sustainable farming, market farming tips, and business insights!   Get market farming tools, seeds, and supplies at Modern Grower. Follow Modern Grower:  Instagram  Instagram Listen to other podcasts on the Modern Grower Podcast Network:  Carrot Cashflow  Farm Small Farm Smart  Farm Small Farm Smart Daily  The Growing Microgreens Podcast  The Urban Farmer Podcast  The Rookie Farmer Podcast  In Search of Soil Podcast Check out Diego's books:  Sell Everything You Grow on Amazon   Ready Farmer One on Amazon **** Modern Grower and Diego Footer participate in the Amazon Services LLC. Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com.

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. 

On April 18th, hundreds of tenants gathered inside a school cafeteria to help shape Toronto's first city-wide tenant's union – the TTU. There were elections, robust policy discussions and plenty of stories from tenants. Blueprints of Disruption was there to capture it all, and provide analysis afterwards.On-scene interviews from inside the Toronto Tenant Union's founding Convention start off with Ricardo Tranjan, housing policy expert and author of The Tenant Class. Tranjan talks about his expectations for the day, and his excitement at the prospect of “taking another step” towards building the tenant class consciousness he wrote about in his book.There are also interviews with tenant organizers from different buildings across the city – including Jerry and Steve from 240 Markland. They talk about their saga with an REIT buying their building, applying for five consecutive above-guideline rent increases (AGIs) and trying to push legacy tenants out of the building.We also interview Bridgette, a resident of the Caseway building – outside of which convention participants rallied after the day's more official proceedings. She talks about why its been such a battle with their landlord, and how she felt about being a part of something bigger.Organizers of the event, and leaders within the ‘parent' organizations of the TTU also took time to speak with Santiago and Jessa as things wrapped up.Aniket Kali, formerly of Climate Justice Toronto, and Bruno Dobrusin of YSW Tenants Union talk about their new roles (both elected during the Convention), the scaling up of their models, and their vision for the TTU in the years to come.Hosted and Produced by: Jessa McLean and Santiago Helou QuinteroCall to Action: Sign up for TTU Orientation on May 9th, 2026Related Episodes: Blueprints of a Rent Strike (July 2023) Shifting Gears: Climate Justice Toronto (Sept 2024) CJTO on their decision to transition towards tenant organizing as a means to fight climate change.We also have a TENANT POWER PLAYLIST with more stories of neighbours organizing.More Resources: Can the new Toronto Tenant Union change the tired housing debate? – Ricardo Tranjan for Canadian DimensionWho Controls Toronto? The People or Developers? - ACORN ReportHamilton moves to strengthen renoviction bylaw - via CBCRent Strikes! - The Grind MagazineCanada: How Tenants Fought Back- via Progressive InternationalAll of our content is free - made possible by the generous sponsorships of our Patrons. If you would like to support our work through monthly contributions: PatreonFollow us on Instagram or on Bluesky

Authority requires more than expertise. It demands intentional delegation and the courage to stop doing everything yourself. This episode of the Influential Voices of Authority Podcast features host Erik K. Johnson and guest Louis Swart, a serial entrepreneur who has mastered the art of leveraging teams and systems to scale businesses and build undeniable authority in any niche.   Important Links: Louis' free guide: 150 Things You Can Delegate Today: http://www.PodcastTalentCoach.com/delegate Explore Louis' services and agency: ironbrij.com.au Connect with Louis Swart: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/louistswart Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/coachlouistswart LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/coachlouisswart/ Book your Podcast Authority Audit with Erik: https://podcasttalentcoach.com/coaching   Subscribe to the podcast: Apple Podcasts: http://www.PodcastTalentCoach.com/apple Spotify: http://www.PodcastTalentCoach.com/spotify Website: http://www.PodcastTalentCoach.com/podcasts   Episode Segments: 00:09 "How to Get Noticed and Build Authority" 01:10 "Grow Your Authority with Podcast Appearances" 02:45 "Overcoming the Little Voice and Imposter Syndrome" 03:16 "Start Small and Grow Your Confidence" 04:36 "From Mouse Business to Plumbing Empire" 07:09 "The Harsh Reality of Doing Everything Yourself" 08:54 "Scaling Up to a Multi-Million Dollar Exit" 12:52 "Coaches' Biggest Challenge: Doing It All Alone" 13:27 "The 2,000 Hour Rule: Valuing Your Time" 15:41 "Delegating for Exponential Growth" 17:49 "The Gut Punch of Business Reality" 21:04 "Testing Offers and Letting the Market Decide" 22:09 "How Solopreneurs Can Start Delegating" 24:00 "Agency vs. DIY: Pitfalls in Hiring Help" 27:30 "3 Essential Delegation Strategies for Success" 31:28 "Success Story: Freeing Up Headspace for Growth" 34:54 "Why Visibility Is Non-Negotiable" 36:09 "Strangers Who Feel Like Friends: The Authority Effect" 37:30 "150 Things You Can Delegate—Free Resource" 38:44 "If I Started Over: Lessons in Testing and Sales" 40:08 "Why Selling Is Service" 41:35 "Access to Instant Team Resources" 42:37 "How to Connect with Lou and Take Action" 51:21 "Supporting Healthcare Authorities: Erik's Mission"   Key Takeaways: - Why Authority Requires Delegation Louis and Erik unwrap the damaging myth that solopreneurs should do it all themselves. True authority comes when you focus on what only you can do and delegate the rest.   - From Struggling Owner to Systemized Success Louis shares how failing to delegate destroyed the value of his first business, while embracing systems and teams produced a multi-million dollar exit the second time around.   - 3 Simple Delegation Habits Louis' practical strategies to vet, communicate with, and empower virtual assistants.   - The Competitive Edge: Podcast Interviews Visibility through interviews not only builds instant credibility but provides endless social content to multiply your reach, and curb imposter syndrome.   - Let the Market Decide: Test and Iterate Stop guessing. Launch, test, and double down on what your clients will actually pay for.   - Free Your Headspace Clients who delegate find more clarity, creativity, and revenue. Louis' framework shows how to systemize your business and finally become the public face of your brand.   Episode Highlights: The emotional impact of learning your business is worthless if you don't delegate Why working only in your business means nobody wants to buy it How to ensure virtual assistants deliver results without overwhelm or culture clash The power of social proof: leveraging podcast appearances and "starstruck" moments Setting a true hourly value for your leadership, and avoiding $10 tasks Why testing different markets beats gut feelings or friends' opinions   Resources: Get Louis' free guide: 150 Things You Can Delegate Today: http://www.PodcastTalentCoach.com/delegate Explore Louis' services and agency: ironbrij.com.au Connect with Louis Swart: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/louistswart Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/coachlouistswart LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/coachlouisswart/   Ready to strategically grow your podcast authority? Book your Podcast Authority Audit with Erik: https://podcasttalentcoach.com/coaching   Next Week: Next week Erik sits down with Dr. Paul Etchison, a dentist who turned his podcast into the engine behind a million-dollar coaching business. You'll discover how he transforms cold leads into a steady stream of high-value, ready-to-buy clients.   PODCAST AUTHORITY AUDIT You've published the episodes. You've stayed consistent. You know your content is good. And yet… You're not being seen as the authority in your niche Your podcast isn't creating the level of influence or opportunity you expected People listen—but they don't take action And you sound professional… but not unforgettable The truth? Consistency alone doesn't create authority. Intentional leadership does. Are you ready to turn your podcast into an authority engine and not just more content? Would you like to move from best-kept secret to recognized authority? Let me audit your podcast and find the gaps. Go to www.PodcastTalentCoach.com/coaching, click the button and apply to have a chat with me. We will uncover your authority positioning problem, develop your plan to succeed, and see how I can help and support you to achieve your podcast goals. Get your Podcast Authority Audit at www.PodcastTalentCoach.com/coaching.

  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. 

Interview with Matthew D. Gili, President & CEO of Ur-EnergyOur previous interview: https://www.cruxinvestor.com/posts/ur-energy-amexurg-bringing-second-uranium-mine-online-as-demand-surges-9237Recording date: 27th April 2026Ur-Energy has officially launched operations at its Shirley Basin facility in Wyoming, marking a major milestone as the company's second producing uranium asset. Using an innovative hub-and-spoke model, the site functions as a satellite operation. It extracts uranium using in-situ recovery (ISR) mining—a low-impact method that relies on oxygen and carbon dioxide—and daily ships the uranium-bearing resin to the company's primary Lost Creek facility for final processing. This capital-efficient approach allows Ur-Energy to scale up quickly without needing to build duplicative processing infrastructure.The financial outlook for this expansion is highly favorable. Ur-Energy projects operating costs between $45 and $50 per pound, which delivers substantial profit margins when compared to current term contract prices hovering around $90 per pound. While the company is licensed to produce up to 4.2 million pounds annually across both sites, its near-term target sits at a robust 2 million pounds. Because the company treats well development as an operating expense rather than a capitalized cost, its future sustaining capital needs drop to a modest $2 million annually once initial construction wraps up, freeing up significant cash flow.This operational leap arrives at a critical moment for U.S. energy security. The United States currently consumes roughly 50 million pounds of uranium each year but produces merely 2 to 3 million pounds domestically. Fueled by strong bipartisan support for nuclear energy, Ur-Energy is positioning itself to help fill this massive supply gap. The company isn't stopping at its current capacity, either. Management is actively evaluating a third project, Lost Soldier, with a technical report expected by late 2026. Through disciplined growth and deep regulatory expertise, Ur-Energy is steadily advancing toward its ultimate goal of becoming the largest uranium producer in the United States.https://www.cruxinvestor.com/companies/ur-energy-incSign up for Crux Investor: https://cruxinvestor.com

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:   

Biofilm is not a fringe issue in cooling systems. As Dr. Jeff Kramer explains, it is a given. That matters because biofilm affects heat transfer, contributes to corrosion, and can serve as a reservoir for Legionella in treated systems. In this conversation, Trace Blackmore and Dr. Kramer examine what experienced water treaters should be looking for when choosing and evaluating a microbiological control program.   Biofilm as an operating problem Dr. Jeff defines biofilm as a community of microorganisms attached to a surface and held together by an external polymeric matrix. From there, the discussion moves quickly into why this matters in the field. He points to research showing that biofilms can be more insulating than mineral scale, then explains how microbial activity and patchy film formation can intensify corrosion risk. He also notes that Legionella can be harbored within biofilm, making clean-looking bulk water an incomplete picture of system condition. Choosing the right biocide program A strong oxidizing biocide foundation remains central, whether based on chlorine or bromine. However, Dr. Jeff makes a practical distinction that matters to service professionals: some non-oxidizing biocides kill biofilm organisms without removing the film, while others both kill and remove. He also explains why shock dosing often outperforms smaller, more frequent additions, and why biocide timing should be evaluated in the context of oxidizer compatibility, halogen demand, and actual system feedback rather than habit or opinion. Surfactants, TTPC, and field realities The conversation also covers how surfactants and quaternary compounds can disrupt microbial membranes and improve biocide penetration. Dr. Jeff shares lab and field insight on TTPC, including its strong performance in kill-and-removal testing and its known interference with PTSA fluorescence programs. The discussion closes with practical monitoring advice: inspect the basin, feel below the waterline, trend dip slides, watch approach temperatures, and pay attention to residence time when selecting products for different system volumes and turnover rates. Better microbiological control is not about one product or one rule of thumb. It is about understanding the system, interpreting feedback, and matching chemistry to operating reality so performance can be maintained over time. Listen to the full conversation above. Explore related episodes below. Stay engaged, keep learning, and continue scaling up your knowledge! Quotes "You need to understand,  listen to the feedback you're getting from the system and then adjust your program appropriately. " "Don't be afraid to ask for help because you don't know you don't know everything" Connect with Dr Jeff Kramer  Phone: (404)-386-0518  Email: jkramer@mfgchemical.com   Website: https://www.radicalpolymers.com/  LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/traceblackmore/ ?skipRedirect=truuee  Guest Resources Mentioned  CTI's New Biocide Options For Biofouling Control by Jeffrey Kramer Scaling UP! H2O Resources Mentioned  Scaling UP! H2O Academy video courses  Submit a Show Idea  The Rising Tide Mastermind   253 The One About Biofilms Words of Water with James McDonald  Today's definition refers to the exact chemical amount required for a reaction to proceed to completion with no excess of any reactant. It describes the quantitative relationships between reactants and products. 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. 

 Shawn Powell has built a following by doing something wastewater operators have needed for a long time: making practical technical education easier to access. In Episode 470, he explains why that matters, how he built The Wastewater Enthusiast, and what the industry still gets wrong about training, certification, and knowledge transfer. From test prep to true understanding A major thread in this conversation is the gap between passing an exam and actually understanding plant operations. Shawn reflects on his own early experience with certification prep, where classes helped him recognize test questions but did not always help him understand what was happening inside a real activated sludge system. That gap became the foundation for his channel. He makes the case that operators need more than memorization. They need visuals, process context, and practical explanations that help concepts stick. For professionals responsible for training staff, succession planning, or improving plant performance, that distinction matters. What real operations look like on the ground Shawn also brings credibility from the plant floor. He describes his work as chief plant operator in Avila Beach, California, where a small facility still demands close attention because of its biological complexity, membrane bioreactor operation, and chemical dosing requirements. A story about foam erupting from an aeration basin becomes more than a war story. It shows how biology resists quick fixes and why operators have to think in time horizons measured in MCRT cycles, not minutes. The conversation also touches on shock loads, public misuse of sewer systems, and the daily balance between observation, testing, automation, and operator instinct. That practical perspective keeps the discussion grounded for listeners who live with process variability every day. Why free knowledge matters One of the strongest sections centers on Shawn's idea of the "democratization of knowledge." He argues that critical wastewater education should not be locked behind paywalls or trapped in the heads of reluctant gatekeepers. That point expands into a broader discussion about generational turnover, operator shortages, and the risk of losing hard-earned plant knowledge as experienced professionals retire. Shawn also explains how monetization entered the picture without changing the mission. Training workshops, webinars, YouTube revenue, and memberships have started to support the project, while his core educational content remains open to everyone. Exam strategy, content strategy, and long-term value The episode closes with practical advice for certification candidates. Shawn stresses long preparation windows, disciplined use of official study materials, and a simple but critical reminder: read the question completely. He also shares how he chooses content, responds to viewer needs, and uses real plant events to teach beyond the textbook. For leaders, trainers, and operators alike, this is a useful conversation about how technical knowledge gets shared, preserved, and improved. Listen to the full conversation above. Explore related episodes below. Stay engaged, keep learning, and continue scaling up your knowledge!   Connect with Shawn Powell  Phone: (530) 859-2787  Email: powell.shawnm@gmail.com   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shawn-powell-792020197/     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 a flexible, one‑way item installed on the feed end of a spiral‑wound reverse osmosis membrane element. Its job is to force all incoming feedwater to flow through the membrane feed channel rather than bypassing around the outside of the element. 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.     

Welcome back to the HIT (Human Resources, Insurance, and Technology) podcast! This week, host Toby Kennedy is joined by world-renowned business consultant and author Kevin Lawrence for a deep dive into the strategies that separate stagnant companies from high-growth organizations.With over 30 years of experience helping executive teams scale 5x to 10x, Kevin shares why the "people piece" is the ultimate fuel for any growth engine.In this episode, we explore: The Discernment of Growth: Learn the critical difference between making your business "better" (optimizing units) versus making it "bigger" (driving core growth).Escaping the "Pull of Problems": Discover why leaders often get trapped in the drama of daily problem-solving, inadvertently starving their company's growth engine.The 30% Growth Rule: Why every leader, including those in HR, should aim to spend 30% of their time on future-focused growth activities like networking with top talent.Quarterly Talent Discipline: Why annual reviews aren't enough and how executive teams must actively manage and develop "Aces" every 90 days.Courage vs. Fear: How leadership from the top creates an environment where people feel safe to take chances and learn from mistakes.**About Our Guest**Kevin Lawrence is a strategic advisor to CEOs and executive teams worldwide. He is a key contributor to the book "Scaling Up," author of "Your Oxygen Mask First," and author of the recent release "The Four Forces of Growth."Brought to you by:Montage Insurance Solutions#BusinessGrowth #ScalingUp #Leadership #HRTech #HITPodcast #KevinLawrence #ExecutiveCoaching #HumanResources

Learn more about Allison at: https://www.facebook.com/PinnacleGlobalNetwork and follow her instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/pinnacleglobalnetwork/?hl=en Show Notes 

Boiler performance rarely depends on a single decision. It depends on design, controls, maintenance, workforce capability, and, as this conversation makes clear, the quality of water treatment. Scott Lynch and Shaunica Jayson explain how American Boiler Manufacturers Association (ABMA) is addressing those realities by connecting manufacturers, representatives, suppliers, and field stakeholders around education and practical guidance. Why ABMA still matters in a changing boiler market ABMA has been in place since 1888, but this discussion is not about preserving old structures for their own sake. Scott and Shaunica describe an association that has expanded beyond traditional manufacturer membership into a broader supply-chain view of the boiler room. That includes boiler, burner, deaerator, and economizer manufacturers, component suppliers, service providers, consultants, and manufacturer representatives. That broader view matters because boiler performance does not begin and end with the vessel itself. Decisions made across installation, controls, service, and water treatment shape efficiency, reliability, and long-term asset life. Education that reaches the people actually running boiler rooms A strong theme throughout the conversation is education. ABMA is reaching beyond its own meetings to speak with healthcare engineers, food processors, facility engineers, and other sectors that rely on boilers every day. Scott outlines the practical angle of that work: what operators should be doing on a daily, weekly, monthly, and yearly basis to keep boiler rooms safe and efficient. Shaunica adds that ABMA is building toward a larger resource center, on-demand materials, and expanded access to white papers and best-practice guidance. They also discuss partnerships with trade schools and Maritime Academies as part of a larger workforce strategy. For water professionals, that matters because better-informed boiler operators create better conditions for treatment programs to succeed.   Water treatment is not a side issue One of the clearest takeaways is that water treatment remains central to boiler performance. ABMA's work with the Association of Water Technologies is helping align deaeration and chemical treatment perspectives into a single, co-branded guidance document. That effort is meant to reduce finger-pointing, improve technical clarity, and give end users a more unified message. Scott is direct about the operational stakes: poor water treatment drives scaling, damages equipment, and undermines efficiency. The discussion also pushes back on outdated assumptions about boiler rooms, highlighting gains in efficiency, modern controls, remote monitoring, retrofit options, and emerging technologies such as hydrogen, dual-fuel, and hybrid systems. Boiler systems may be longstanding infrastructure, but the thinking around them cannot stay static. Listen to the full conversation above. Explore related episodes below. Stay engaged, keep learning, and continue scaling up your knowledge! Timestamps  01:18 - Trace introduces ABMA, explains its relevance to water treaters, and previews the upcoming ABMA Expo   03:11 - Trace gives a concise history of boilers, from early steam vessels to modern high-efficiency systems  07:36 - Scott Lynch and Shaunica Jayson join the show and introduce themselves and their roles at ABMA  08:18 - Scott explains how ABMA has evolved from a manufacturer-focused association into a broader industry organization spanning the full boiler supply chain  10:27 - Shaunica outlines ABMA's four membership categories, including manufacturers, associate members, consultants, and manufacturer reps   33:18 - The discussion shifts to the ABMA–AWT partnership and the co-branded water treatment guideline   34:58 - Scott explains why deaeration and water treatment need to be addressed together to produce useful technical guidance  36:31 - Shaunica shares what ABMA learned from attending the AWT conference and why the partnership helps reduce finger-pointing between disciplines  38:19 - The conversation moves to Boiler Expo, including why ABMA launched it and how it is designed to serve the full boiler community   40:49 - Shaunica explains the co-location with the Biomass Conference & Expo and highlights ABMA's BUILT and WIBI communities  45:18 - Scott and Shaunica close with their key takeaways: the boiler industry is evolving, and ABMA is a resource for the field  53:50 - Words of Water with James    Connect with Shaunica Jayson   Email: Shaunica@abma.com   Website: American Boiler Manufacturers Association (ABMA)  LinkedIn: Shaunica Jayson | LinkedIn   Connect with Scott Lynch  Email: scott@abma.com   Website: American Boiler Manufacturers Association (ABMA)  LinkedIn: Scott Lynch, CAE | LinkedIn      Quotes "Our official mission is to lead, advance and provide solutions to the boiler industry." "Our vision is boilers are recognized for advancing energy sustainability and powering people's lives." "The boiler industry continues to evolve and innovate." "We love our members. We love our operators. We love our water treaters."   Guest Resources Mentioned   ABMA – BOILER EXPO 2026  ABMA – BOILER EXPO 2026  The Association of Facilities Engineering (AFE)   The ABMA Boiler Expo Registration   ABMA – Technical Papers  ABMA – Technical Resources  ABMA – Free Boiler Maintenance Schedule  AWT Technical Papers   ABMA Boiler Expo 2026 Pre Conference (Boiler Water Treatment Workshops)  ABMA - Boiler Industry Leaders of Tomorrow (BILT)    Women in the Boiler Industry (WIBI) Professional Community  ABMA – Ladies of Steam    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 a salt solution, generally sodium chloride, used during the regeneration process in ion exchange.  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 if the biggest risk in the AI era isn't falling behind the technology, but getting ahead of your customers' trust? Agility requires a constant feedback loop between technological innovation and customer sentiment. It demands that we not only deploy new tools like AI, but also actively listen and adapt to how our customers are actually experiencing them. Today, we're going to talk about the delicate balance brands must strike in the age of AI. It's not just about implementing the latest generative AI tools into the shopping experience; it's about doing so in a way that builds, rather than erodes, the customer trust and loyalty you've worked so hard to create.To help me discuss this topic, I'd like to welcome, Romain Fouache, CEO at Akeneo. About Romain Fouache Romain is as passionate about technology as he is about solving the customers' biggest problems and brings more than 20 years of experience scaling category defining B2B technology companies. Most recently, he led operations and sales as COO and then CRO of the leading AI software vendor Dataiku. Romain is a graduate from Ecole Centrale Paris and holds an MBA from NYU Stern. Romain Fouache on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/romain-fouache/ Resources Akeneo: https://www.akeneo.com The Agile Brand podcast is brought to you by TEKsystems. Learn more here: https://aglbrnd.co/r/2868abd8085a9703 Drive your customers to new horizons at the premier retail event of the year for Retail and Brand marketers. Learn more at CRMC 2026, June 1-3. https://aglbrnd.co/r/d15ec37a537c0d74 Enjoyed the show? Tell us more at and give us a rating so others can find the show at: https://aglbrnd.co/r/faaed112fc9887f3 Connect with Greg on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregkihlstromDon't miss a thing: get the latest episodes, sign up for our newsletter and more: https://aglbrnd.co/r/35ded3ccfb6716ba Check out The Agile Brand Guide website with articles, insights, and Martechipedia, the wiki for marketing technology: https://www.agilebrandguide.com The Agile Brand is produced by Missing Link—a Latina-owned strategy-driven, creatively fueled production co-op. From ideation to creation, they craft human connections through intelligent, engaging and informative content. https://www.missinglink.company

What if the biggest risk in the AI era isn't falling behind the technology, but getting ahead of your customers' trust?Agility requires a constant feedback loop between technological innovation and customer sentiment. It demands that we not only deploy new tools like AI, but also actively listen and adapt to how our customers are actually experiencing them.Today, we're going to talk about the delicate balance brands must strike in the age of AI. It's not just about implementing the latest generative AI tools into the shopping experience; it's about doing so in a way that builds, rather than erodes, the customer trust and loyalty you've worked so hard to create.To help me discuss this topic, I'd like to welcome, Romain Fouache, CEO at Akeneo. About Romain Fouache Romain is as passionate about technology as he is about solving the customers' biggest problems and brings more than 20 years of experience scaling category defining B2B technology companies. Most recently, he led operations and sales as COO and then CRO of the leading AI software vendor Dataiku. Romain is a graduate from Ecole Centrale Paris and holds an MBA from NYU Stern. Romain Fouache on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/romain-fouache/ Resources Akeneo: https://www.akeneo.com The Agile Brand podcast is brought to you by TEKsystems. Learn more here: https://aglbrnd.co/r/2868abd8085a9703 Drive your customers to new horizons at the premier retail event of the year for Retail and Brand marketers. Learn more at CRMC 2026, June 1-3. https://aglbrnd.co/r/d15ec37a537c0d74 Enjoyed the show? Tell us more at and give us a rating so others can find the show at: https://aglbrnd.co/r/faaed112fc9887f3 Connect with Greg on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregkihlstromDon't miss a thing: get the latest episodes, sign up for our newsletter and more: https://aglbrnd.co/r/35ded3ccfb6716ba Check out The Agile Brand Guide website with articles, insights, and Martechipedia, the wiki for marketing technology: https://www.agilebrandguide.com The Agile Brand is produced by Missing Link—a Latina-owned strategy-driven, creatively fueled production co-op. From ideation to creation, they craft human connections through intelligent, engaging and informative content. https://www.missinglink.company Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How do you succeed in a world that demands your attention 24/7 ?In this episode, Bill Gallagher sits down with Fred Marshall, CEO, investor, and author of Thrive: The Antidote to Future Shock, to explore how to navigate anxiety, information overload, and rapid change. Fred shares practical ways to restore your attention, simplify your life, and build a meaningful future using intentional habits.(06:13) Why We're All Feeling Overwhelmed*We're living in an age of constant input.*The average person checks their phone dozens of times a day, fragmenting focus.*This makes it difficult to think deeply, build meaningful work, or feel in control of your life.(16:04) When Change Outpaces Our Ability to Adapt*Future shock happens when the pace of change exceeds our ability to process it.*Technology, economics, and social systems are shifting from linear to exponential growth.*This creates anxiety, uncertainty, and a sense of constantly “falling behind.”(21:01) Take Back Control*Instead of stressing about global uncertainty, focus on what's within your control.*Build a weekly rhythm of small, consistent actions toward your desired future.*Choosing where to invest your time and energy is the antidote to overwhelm.(25:20) Shift from Consumption to Creation*Most people are stuck consuming content instead of creating value.*Endless scrolling leads to distraction, anxiety, and lack of meaning.*Creating, whether in business, relationships, or personal growth; builds fulfillment and momentum.Thanks to Fred Marshall for being on the show!Connect with Fred on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fredric-marshall-1984bb/Learn more about his work: https://thrivefutureyou.com/Bill Gallagher, Scaling Coach and host of the Scaling Up Business podcast, is an international business coach who works with C-Suite leaders to achieve breakthrough growth.Join Bill in the Growth Navigator Coaching Program: https://ScalingCoach.com/workshopBill on LinkedIn: https://www.LinkedIn.com/in/BillGallBill on YouTube: https://www.YouTube.com/@BillGallagherScalingCoachVisit https://ScalingUp.com to learn more about Verne Harnish, our team of Scaling Up Coaches, and the Scaling Up Performance Platform, which includes coaching, learning, software, and summit. We share how the fastest-growing companies succeed where so many others fail. We help leadership teams with the biggest decisions around people, strategy, execution, and cash so that they can scale up successfully and beat the odds of business growth.Did you enjoy today's episode? If so, then please leave a review! Help other business leaders discover Scaling Up Business with Bill Gallagher so they, too, can benefit from the ideas shared in these podcasts.Subscribe via Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3PGhWPJSubscribe via Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3PKe00uBill on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/billgall/Bill on Twitter/X: https://x.com/billgallMentioned in this episode:Busy is Broken bookOur new book, Busy is Broken, coming this September. Sign up for the release at busyisbroken.com

Bill shares how meditation, breathwork, and simple daily practices have helped him manage focus and maintain clarity; even when everything feels like it's happening all at once. He reflects on how small habits at the beginning and end of the day can shape your mindset, and why learning to manage your attention is one of the most important leadership skills today.Topics explored in this episode:(01:31) Meditation as a Leadership Tool*Bill shares that he began learning meditation as a child and still practices it today.*Meditation, mindfulness, and breathwork help calm the “crazy brain” and restore focus.*These practices create space to reconnect with what truly matters.(06:14) Managing Attention in the Age of Notifications*Turning off alerts helps, but the deeper skill is learning not to react to every interruption.*The real challenge is managing your own attention, not just managing technology.*Mindfulness practices help leaders return their focus to what matters most.(08:52) How You Start and End the Day Shapes Everything*The way you close one day often determines how the next day begins.*Morning routines that include reflection, stillness, or movement can dramatically improve focus.*Small shifts in daily habits can create lasting changes in clarity and energy.Bill Gallagher, Scaling Coach and host of the Scaling Up Business podcast, is an international business coach who works with C-Suite leaders to achieve breakthrough growth.Join Bill in the Growth Navigator Coaching Program: https://ScalingCoach.com/workshopBill on LinkedIn: https://www.LinkedIn.com/in/BillGallBill on YouTube: https://www.YouTube.com/@BillGallagherScalingCoachVisit https://ScalingUp.com to learn more about Verne Harnish, our team of Scaling Up Coaches, and the Scaling Up Performance Platform, which includes coaching, learning, software, and summit. We share how the fastest-growing companies succeed where so many others fail. We help leadership teams with the biggest decisions around people, strategy, execution, and cash so that they can scale up successfully and beat the odds of business growth.Did you enjoy today's episode? If so, then please leave a review! Help other business leaders discover Scaling Up Business with Bill Gallagher so they, too, can benefit from the ideas shared in these podcasts.Subscribe via Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3PGhWPJSubscribe via Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3PKe00uBill on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/billgall/Bill on Twitter/X: https://x.com/billgall

Morning Brew co-founder Alex Lieberman joins How Success Happens for a fun, fast-paced masterclass in going from side-hustle newsletter to full-blown media brand. Alex shares how he grew Morning Brew from a scrappy startup into a scaled business, the mindset shifts that allowed for greater growth, and the systems that kept the rocket ship steady. He and host Dan Bova dig into how to keep innovating, why expert support at every level is a superpower, and the practical steps you can take to unlock your next chapter of growth.With the business tax filing deadlines are approaching quickly, with many returns due March 16, 2026, understanding what has changed and acting on it with the right guidance may be one of the most practical decisions a solopreneur makes this year. Learn more about filing your taxes with Intuit TurboTax, visit https://turbotax.com/business Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What actually separates small businesses from scalable eight-figure companies? In this episode of Limitless MD, Dr. Vikram Raya breaks down the operating system that allows founders to build predictable, scalable, and sellable businesses even if they never plan to sell.This episode is a practical deep dive into business infrastructure, leadership systems, and the invisible framework that turns fragile growth into durable momentum. Dr. Raya explains why businesses do not rise to the level of the founder's talent but instead rise or collapse to the level of their systems, and how founders must shift from being artists to becoming architects.You will learn how to remove founder dependency, design a self managing company, and build a business that can grow without chaos or constant firefighting. This episode is especially relevant for physicians and founders who want freedom without abandoning impact.“You do not need a better product. You need a better operating system.” ~ Dr. Vikram RayaIn This Episode:Why businesses rise or collapse based on systems, not talentHow to remove founder dependency from your companyWhat a real business operating system actually isThe frameworks behind EOS, Scaling Up, and Summit OSThe six elements every scalable company must masterHow to build a self-managing companyHow physicians can turn clinics into scalable assetsConnect with Vikram:

In this jaw-dropping episode , we sit down with George Day — one of the most prolific yet largely unknown drug kingpins in American history. Raised in Washington, DC, George was literally born into the drug trade. By age six, he was traveling across the border with his father, helping smuggle hundreds of pounds of marijuana hidden inside a Winnebago. As he grew older, his life spiraled deeper into the underworld — from trimming weed in Mexico to handling massive cash pickups and negotiating with Colombian suppliers before he was even a teenager. After his father's sudden death, George found himself — at just 11 years old — sitting on a multimillion-dollar drug ledger, forced to navigate dangerous debts, cartel relationships, and violent street politics. What followed was the rise of a cocaine empire that eventually stretched across all 50 states… and ultimately led to a life sentence plus 90 years in federal prison. This is Part 1 of an unbelievable story about family, survival, crime, and the realities of growing up inside America's drug economy.

Struggling to scale your law firm or lead expert teams without burning out or losing your edge? You're not alone. In this episode, Cameron Herold brings you an unfiltered, radically honest conversation with Dan Cuneo, CEO of Melone Hatley. Dan reveals the surprising truth behind law firm growth, why lawyers love culture but hate change, and the communication systems driving results in a multi-office, 100+ employee business.What does it really take to compete, attract talent, and thrive when AI, client demand, and team alignment keep shifting? Get the inside playbook, raw stories, and proven systems to finally build sustainable scale, without sacrificing humanity or profit. Listen now, because the biggest risks are waiting, hoping, and copying what every other law firm is already doing. This episode delivers exclusive, actionable strategies that win with today's top talent and future-proof your firm.Timestamped Highlights[00:00] – The one business skill most lawyers are missing (and why it holds firms back)[04:10] – How Melone Hatley picks winning markets and why they avoid the “big city trap”[07:25] – Recruiting smart attorneys: drive vs. ambition, culture fit vs. pure skill[10:54] – Topgrading and the secrets to high-impact, low-turnover legal hiring[13:21] – Can a non-lawyer run law firm ops? Why Dan says “it depends,” and what really matters[15:31] – From band-aids to sustainable hires: scaling up, alignment, and culture that actually sticks[17:15] – The silent killer: how misalignment eats into growth (and what to do about it)[20:18] – The real impact of AI in law: opportunity, risk, and what Dan refuses to automate[25:26] – Marketing channels that don't work anymore and how Dan finds blue ocean opportunitiesAbout the GuestDan Cuneo is the CEO of Melone Hatley, a rapidly scaling multi-state family law and estate planning firm known for its aggressive, people-first approach to talent and market expansion. With 100+ team members across multiple offices, Dan is a rare law firm leader who combines litigation experience with a relentless business-building mindset. He's a TEDx speaker, champion of culture-first leadership, and a voice for operational innovation in a tradition-resistant industry.