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Published by SpaRetailer Magazine
The Voice of the Hot Tub Industry
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Host Megan Kendrick welcomes back Greg Haines of Compass Digital to discuss how spa retailers and small businesses can avoid being mistreated by marketing agencies and how to evaluate agency performance. Greg shares examples of dealers being “tethered” by contracts claiming agency ownership of Shopify websites or ad accounts, locked into expensive long-term agreements with low-value deliverables, and misled by claims of proprietary dashboards or special Google partnerships. They outline what good agencies should provide — transparent monthly activity reporting (not just numbers), insights and context, regular meetings, responsiveness and periodic strategy reviews — plus what to look for when hiring, including meeting the actual account team, clarifying pricing and deliverables and ensuring the dealer owns all intellectual property. They also discuss budgeting, market positioning, CRM/automation and preparing websites for AI search. https://sparetailer.com/feed/podcast/ Show Notes with Timestamps: 00:00 Welcome Back Greg00:48 The Rant Email Story01:28 Agency Horror Stories04:35 Why Dealers Get Burned06:45 Audit Your Agency09:23 Reports Versus Insights11:51 What Agencies Should Do13:05 Marketing Budget Basics14:20 Customer Journey Playbook16:23 How To Find An Agency17:59 Vetting And Pricing Questions18:57 Red Flags And Ownership20:00 Interview The Whole Team20:34 Meet Your Account Rep20:49 Avoid the B Team21:19 Agency Tethering Trap22:17 Own Your Channels23:01 Agencies as Fractional Team23:57 Hold Them Accountable25:59 Reporting and Constraints27:43 Quarterly Strategy Reviews29:10 When to Fire an Agency29:53 Red Flags and SLAs31:24 Judging Results Fairly33:31 Partnership and Gut Check37:00 Closing and Resources
In this episode of The SpaRetailer Podcast, host Megan Kendrick interviews Terry Valmassoi, CEO of MasterSpas, as he nears retirement after 50+ years in the hot tub industry and 30 years at MasterSpas. Valmassoi shares his plans to spend more time with his wife in Charleston while remaining a partner and board member, and he addresses persistent rumors by stating MasterSpas has never been in talks to sell. He recounts growing up in Southern California, entering the spa business at 16, starting early retail and manufacturing ventures, working at L.A. Spas, and collaborating with Waterway before moving his family to Tennessee and then Fort Wayne to help launch MasterSpas with Bob Lauter. They discuss building culture through trust, navigating 9/11, the 2008–09 recession (with swim spas helping growth), COVID shutdowns and supply chain strain, rapid hiring expansion and innovation including the Michael Phelps partnership, water-care advances, cold tubs and saunas. https://sparetailer.com/feed/podcast/ Show Notes with Timestamps: 00:00 Podcast Welcome00:46 Retirement Plans04:13 No Sale Rumors06:48 Early Life Background08:33 First Spa Job09:52 Retail to Manufacturing13:25 Hydrospa Boom Years18:30 Hydrospa Exit Lessons23:26 LA Spas Florida Move24:31 Waterway Startup Era27:31 Bill Holmes Legacy31:27 Meeting Bob Lauter34:03 Moving to Fort Wayne34:55 Launching the Factory36:11 Kevin Richards Origin37:27 Partnership with Bob40:30 Building Culture and Team44:41 Early Operations Systems50:26 Hard Times and Rebounds52:36 Pandemic Growth Surge57:22 Swim Spa Factory Deal59:45 Most Fun Moments01:01:23 Michael Phelps Partnership01:06:16 Innovation and New Lines01:10:33 Retirement and Legacy
In this episode of The SpaRetailer Podcast, host Megan Kendrick welcomes back Alex Granlund of King Technology to discuss a new hot tub setup and why new hot tubs should be purged and properly balanced at startup. They explain that hot tubs are wet-tested at factories using reused water, leaving residual water and buildup in plumbing that can sit for months, leading to biofilm, odor and debris that later causes scum lines and sanitizer inefficiency. They recommend filling and heating to about 85–90°F before using a purge product, draining and refilling, and purging again if heavy debris or smell persists. They emphasize balancing source water before use, optionally pre-filtering fill water, avoiding softened water unless corrected with calcium, and adding a startup shock or small amount of chlorine if balancing takes longer than 24 hours. They encourage dealers to test customers’ source water pre-delivery, rely on supplier training, and offer support programs like FROG VIP to improve customer success and reduce buyer’s remorse. https://sparetailer.com/feed/podcast/ Show Notes with Timestamps: 00:00 Podcast Welcome01:40 Why Purging Matters02:42 Wet Testing Reality08:18 Dealer Upsell Opportunity09:44 How to Purge Properly12:22 Balance Water First14:45 Pre Filter Source Water17:07 Speeding Up Startup19:03 Training Dealer Teams22:15 Support Tools for Dealers24:59 Improve Setup Experience30:10 Confidence Based Selling33:04 Final Startup Checklist33:44 Wrap Up e0bbb380-89cb-11f1-8c2f-2b385bdc113c
In this episode of The SpaRetailer Podcast, Host Megan Kendrick welcomes Amanda Annis (Ohio Hot Tub and Sauna, IHTA chairman) and Seth Ewing (director of member programs and services at the Pool & Hot Tub Alliance) to discuss how IHTA, under the PHTA umbrella, has evolved and now more strongly serves portable hot tub retailers. They highlight core work protecting the industry through standards, safety, and advocacy on issues like energy regulations, fencing laws, bonding/electrical, water regulations, tariffs, and unsafe noncompliant products sold online, plus relationship-building with government and “Day on the Hill” lobbying. They cover expanded member benefits including a dedicated IHTA retailer membership ($1,000 company fee), a job board (Work in Aquatics), brand-agnostic Certified Hot Tub Technician training, webinars, quarterly and monthly market intelligence reports, and the new Center of Excellence online learning system with 160+ courses and multiple tracks. https://sparetailer.com/feed/podcast/ Show Notes with Timestamps: 00:00 Podcast Welcome01:36 Amanda Joins IHTA03:01 Association Evolution04:39 New Member Benefits07:01 Research And Trends09:54 Workforce Job Board11:25 Why Advocacy Matters15:07 Safety And Compliance16:06 Retailer Membership Perks20:04 Amanda Member Results23:40 Behind The Scenes Advocacy26:06 Day On The Hill27:30 Sponsor Message28:07 Crisis Support Updates32:58 Center Of Excellence38:30 Final Thoughts
In this episode of The SpaRetailer Podcast, early Caldera Spas owner David Ingram shares his background leaving home at 16, working at Fed Mart/Price Club (later Costco), and moving into spa manufacturing through Custom Fiber Engineering. He describes gaining control of a near-bankrupt Caldera in the late 1970s, building early gel-coat/FRP spas, improving blister resistance through multi-layer resin processes and later transitioning toward acrylic thermoforming as the portable spa market grew. Ingram recounts personally selling shells via delivery routes to dealers and pool builders, emphasizing Caldera’s “pure comfort” positioning, navigating financing challenges (including the 1980s crash), and streamlining operations after hiring a high-level CFO/COO. A major growth driver was launching Costco hot tub roadshows. He discusses selling Caldera to Watkins/Masco, his continued industry involvement, family considerations and product areas he’d still improve (equipment presentation, base details, and covers). https://sparetailer.com/feed/podcast/ Show Notes with Timestamps: 00:00 Welcome and Guest Intro01:04 David’s Early Work Life02:40 Spa Molds and Job Shops05:47 Taking Control of Caldera09:23 Materials Shift and Blister Fixes13:02 Hustling Sales on the Road18:45 Dealers, Pool Builders, and Portable Boom25:18 Reputation, Family, and Real Estate33:16 Pure Comfort and Profit Machine38:26 Early Crises and Hard Lessons38:42 Financing for Growth39:31 Costco Partnership Breakthrough41:00 Roadshows and Volume Strategy42:22 Costco Program Economics45:51 Family Loss and Motivation47:21 Why Sell to Watkins50:57 Masco Resources and PE Contrast54:46 Life After the Sale57:43 Back to Retail Expansion01:00:56 Partnership Rules of Thumb01:01:24 Durango Connections and Roots01:03:44 Caldera Legacy and Next 5001:07:15 Product Improvements Wish List01:09:05 Cover Problems and Warranty01:11:39 Wrap Up and Farewell
In this episode of The SpaRetailer Podcast, host Megan Kendrick interviews Stephen Reed, COO of Spa Parts Plus, about his career from pool service work to Hayward, Beachcomber Hot Tubs, and wholesale distribution before acquiring Spa Parts Plus’ wholesale business in 2024. Reed recounts Spa Parts Plus’ 40+ year history: founded in 1986 by Barry and Paulette Knickerbocker, moved to Arizona in 1991, became employee-owned in 2001, returned to Barry in 2008, acquired California Specialty Distributors in 2012, joined Allied Innovations in 2019, and was later bought by private equity in 2022 pursuing vertical integration. Reed explains the company’s renewed focus on wholesale-only support for retailers and service techs, emphasizing fast, accurate shipping from its Memphis-area warehouse, partnerships with OEMs including warranty fulfillment, and using technology (including AI as “augmented” intelligence) to improve service and parts identification amid ongoing challenges from pandemic-era supply chain and mixed-component tubs. https://sparetailer.com/feed/podcast/ Show Notes with Timestamps: 00:00 Podcast Welcome01:27 Stephen Reed Background03:28 Origins of Spa Parts Plus06:55 Ownership Timeline Explained09:41 Back to Wholesale Focus11:46 Why Acquire the Business12:57 Dealers React and Service Margins14:51 OEM Partnerships and Genuine Parts18:27 Service Demand and Tech Expertise21:32 Dealers Servicing All Brands24:00 COVID Era Parts Puzzle25:06 Supply Chain Crunch26:31 Industry Lessons Learned28:03 Next Chapter Strategy28:37 Warranty Fulfillment Logistics29:45 AI And Technology Plans30:28 How We Choose Stock31:45 Sourcing Missing Parts32:50 Warehouse And Shipping Reach34:03 Spa Retailer Five35:22 Career Flops And Wins38:25 AR Tools And QR Comeback42:02 Favorite Reads And Wrap Up45:01 Where To Find Us45:32 Podcast Closing Credits
In this episode of The SpaRetailer Podcast, host Megan Kendrick interviews brothers and co-owners Harrison (24) and Nick Dale (28) discuss launching the Cover and Supply Company, a hot tub cover manufacturing operation in Quakertown, Pennsylvania, next to their parents’ longtime Pelican Shops spa retail store. The entrepreneur team got into the business after other jobs, then bootstrapping production in a repurposed building while sourcing skins from China and navigating sudden tariffs. They cut EPS foam, draw patterns, seal and stuff covers, deliver with a truck/van, and sell largely through in-person store visits across PA, NJ, NY and nearby states. They’ve launched a dealer portal, built a warranty/serial-number labeling system, plan faster sealing equipment and a new facility, expect hiring soon, and note industry sustainability pressure around EPS and a university capstone effort to develop new cover designs. https://sparetailer.com/feed/podcast/ Show Notes with Timestamps: 00:00 Podcast Welcome01:09 Meet The Dale Brothers02:18 Family Business Roots03:28 Early Work Lessons04:20 Life Outside The Store06:32 Nick and Amazon Shift07:40 Values From Parents08:54 Why Start A Cover Company10:18 Bootstrapping and Tariffs12:58 Making Covers In House13:55 Cold Visiting Sales Strategy16:39 Freight Savings Pitch18:01 Choosing Sizes and Black19:02 Surprises and Precision21:09 Learning Machines and CAD23:04 Dealer Portal and Warranty24:33 Production Capacity Push25:14 First Week Reality Check26:25 Switching Off Owner Mode27:30 Tariffs and Figure It Out30:54 Scaling Up Space and Staff33:33 Service Area and Delivery Limits35:04 Spa Retailer Five Stories38:36 Worst Ideas and Hard Lessons40:40 Best Ideas and Family Business42:05 Media Picks and Kaizen Mindset45:37 Thanks and Sign Off
In this episode of The SpaRetailer Podcast, host Megan Kendrick interviews Susan McPhie, VP of Business Development and General Manager at Silk Water Solutions (maker of SilkBalance). McPhie shares her background growing up in Montreal and living in Vancouver, speaking French, and early career paths including cabin safety training for a Canadian airline, real estate development, and the alcohol industry (including Mike’s Hard Lemonade), noting experiences in male-dominated fields. She explains Silk Water Solutions was founded in 2007 by her father, a former CEO of a major Canadian hot tub manufacturer, to simplify water care by preventing problems rather than treating symptoms, leading to patented technology developed with chemist Colin Taylor and updated over time to remain compatible with industry innovations such as monitoring systems and salt generators. McPhie describes how SilkBalance is used weekly to stabilize pH and alkalinity (supporting sanitizer efficiency), soften water feel, keep particles suspended to reduce buildup, and help protect spa components, while not acting as a sanitizer itself; it is available as a liquid or dissolving “Silk Gems” pods, and the company later launched SilkBalance Plus for saltwater systems. She recounts initially joining the business to build its social media presence, then moving into broader marketing and sales, navigating credibility as the founder’s daughter by learning water chemistry and working across roles, and reflecting on working closely with her father before his illness and departure from the company in 2020 during COVID. The conversation highlights the importance of succession planning, supporting brick-and-mortar retailers with sustainable recurring revenue, continued education and training, and maintaining company values including sustainability. McPhie and Kendrick discuss advocacy for women in the industry, the shift toward broader female representation, and the role of supportive men. https://sparetailer.com/feed/podcast/ Show Notes with Timestamps: 00:00 Welcome to The SpaRetailer Podcast + Meet Susan McPhie (SilkBalance “Orange Bottle”)01:49 Susan’s Roots: Montreal to Vancouver, Family Life & the Outdoors03:38 From UN Dreams to the Airline Industry: Discovering a Passion for Training05:45 Real Estate & Mike’s Hard Lemonade: Lessons from Male-Dominated Industries07:22 How Silk Water Solutions Started: Simplifying Water Care with Patented Tech11:37 What SilkBalance Actually Does: Softer Water, Stable pH/Alkalinity, Cleaner Spas17:19 How Susan Joined the Hot Tub Industry: First Trade Show & Falling in Love with the People21:45 From Social Media to Sales: Marketing, Storytelling, and Earning Credibility as the Founder’s Daughter27:34 Working with Her Dad + Succession Planning During COVID32:38 Leading Through Crisis: Resilience, Transparency & Team Support33:47 Why Wellness Products Matter: Hydrotherapy Benefits for Every Age35:58 Succession Planning 101: Start Now, Revisit Yearly, Align the Team39:00 Advocating for Women in the Industry: Breaking Bias & Expanding Roles47:28 Silk Balance’s Next Chapter: Tech, Simplicity, Retailer Support & Values50:53 SpaRetailer Five: First Sale, First Job (Ms. Ball!), Flops & Big Wins01:01:24 Favorites & Farewell: Podcasts, True Crime, Gilmore Girls, and Closing Thanks
In this episode of The SpaRetailer Podcast, host Megan Kendrick sits down with Greg Haines, CEO of Compass Digital, discussing digital marketing strategies and trends for the spa and hot tub industry. They delve into the importance of maintaining an up-to-date website and the increasing role of AI in digital marketing. Haines emphasizes practices such as using automations and segmentations in email marketing, and the value of working with either local or specialized national agencies. They also cover the significant role of AI and search engine adaptations, illustrating how businesses can optimize their online presence for 2026. The conversation further outlines budget considerations for marketing, the balance between awareness and lead generation efforts, and practical advice for using customer relationship management (CRM) tools effectively. https://sparetailer.com/feed/podcast/ Show Notes with Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction and Casual Conversation01:34 End of Year Reflections02:33 Meeting Agenda and Playbook Discussion05:36 Podcast Introduction and Guest Background06:56 Greg’s Career Journey15:18 Digital Marketing Insights28:42 AI and Future Trends30:34 The Shift to AI in Search Engines31:07 Optimizing Websites for AI31:39 Importance of FAQs and Local Content32:37 Structured Data and Site Audits34:25 Custom GPTs for Clients37:12 AI in Business Operations45:23 Digital Marketing Strategies for 202655:00 Personal Insights and Experiences59:01 Engaging Content and Lead Generation
In this episode of The SpaRetailer Podcast, host Megan Kendrick sits down with Royce Manuelo, the brand and product development manager from PAL Lighting based in Houston, Texas. Manuelo shares his journey from marketing various products to specializing in the lighting industry, ultimately making commercial lighting exciting. They discuss the evolution of pool and spa lighting and its significant impact on creating a bespoke and emotionally resonant backyard experience. Manuelo highlights PAL Lighting’s mission to ‘own the backyard’ by offering integrated lighting systems that sync with music and create relaxing environments. He encourages hot tub retailers to consider landscape lighting as part of their offerings to enhance the overall customer experience. Manuelo also recounts his first job, marketing insights, and the importance of understanding customer emotions in sales. This episode is a deep dive into how innovative lighting solutions can transform outdoor living spaces. https://sparetailer.com/feed/podcast/ Show Notes with Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction to the Spa Retailer Podcast00:36 Meet Royce Manuelo from PAL Lighting01:31 Royce’s Journey into the Lighting Industry03:13 PAL Lighting’s Innovations and Market Expansion06:11 The Importance of Lighting in Backyard Design11:25 Integrating Lighting Solutions for Hot Tub Retailers21:12 Support and Resources for Retailers22:21 Introduction to the Spa Retailer Five23:42 First Job Experiences26:05 Marketing Failures and Lessons Learned30:57 Marketing Success Stories35:58 Favorite Books and Podcasts38:35 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
In this episode of The SpaRetailer Podcast, Megan Kendrick interviews Fred Bachmann, owner of Bachmann’s Pools, Spas and Saunas in Wisconsin. They discuss Fred’s journey from a building contractor to a prominent figure in the hot tub industry. Fred delves into his early challenges, including renovating his showrooms during COVID and acquiring a failing business, which eventual turned out to be beneficial. Fred also shares insights into how aggressive marketing, top-notch service, and rigorous staff training have driven the store’s continued growth. Winning the Locksin Thompson Award affirmed their success. Additionally, Fred highlights his interest in cold plunge products and ambitious plans for his business’s future. https://sparetailer.com/feed/podcast/ Show Notes with Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome00:13 Showroom Success and Awards01:44 Store Renovations During COVID02:22 Fred’s Background and Entry into the Hot Tub Industry03:37 Early Business Challenges and Growth09:46 Marketing Strategies and Turning Points12:51 Expansion and Real Estate Investments15:25 Navigating the 2008 Recession16:23 COVID-19 Impact and Adaptations23:48 Post-COVID Growth and Future Outlook27:50 Navigating Supply Chain Challenges28:27 The Impact of Tariffs on Pricing30:02 Consumer Demand for Hot Tubs30:18 Marketing Strategies and Industry Trends32:06 The Rise of Cold Plunges37:48 Training and Development40:05 Future Business Plans41:30 Winning the Locksin and Thompson Award43:18 Personal Reflections and Insights50:43 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
In this episode of The SpaRetailer Podcast, Jamie Burson, the owner of Great Bay Spa and Sauna in New England, shares his journey from starting at the company at 20 years old, working in the warehouse, and dreaming of one day owning the business. Despite challenges like the COVID-19 pandemic, Burson managed to purchase the company in 2021. He discusses the company’s founding by three college friends in 1976 and its growth over the years. Burson also talks about the recent expansion efforts, including opening a new showroom in South Portland, and the strategic changes he’s made to adapt to market demands. https://sparetailer.com/feed/podcast/ Show Notes with Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Guest00:32 Jamie’s Journey: From Warehouse to Ownership01:24 The Challenges of Buying a Business During COVID03:46 The Origins of Great Bay Spa and Sauna09:07 The Hot Tub Industry: A Personal Connection16:30 Expanding the Business: New Showroom in Portland24:54 Designing the Perfect Showroom26:25 Showroom Innovations and Wet Testing28:58 Challenges of Transitioning from Employee to Owner32:06 Navigating Market Volatility and Strategic Adjustments35:56 Marketing Strategies for New Markets42:42 Future Goals and Reflections44:03 Spot Retailer Five Questions
In this episode of The SpaRetailer Podcast, host Megan Kendrick, owner of SpaRetailer Magazine, chats with Craig Selvidge, who retired from Bullfrog Spas in 2024. Selvidge shares his extensive experience in the hot tub industry, starting in the 1970s following a fire that destroyed his marine business. He discusses the evolution from wooden hot tubs to fiberglass and acrylic spas, and his role in developing and popularizing swim spas. Selvidge details the challenges of early swim spa designs and innovations, as well as his various roles at companies like Marquis, Dimension One, Jacuzzi and Bullfrog Spas. The conversation highlights Selvidge’s contributions to the industry and his multiple retirements, each filled with unique projects and adventures. https://sparetailer.com/feed/podcast/ Show Notes with Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction to the Spa Retailer Podcast00:36 Craig Sage’s Retirement and Early Career01:13 The Beginnings of Swim Spas03:03 From Boats to Hot Tubs05:52 The Rise of Wooden Hot Tubs07:42 Innovations in Hot Tub Design12:11 The Birth of Swim Spas13:37 Concrete Swim Spas and Early Designs15:31 Fiberglass and Acrylic Swim Spas16:21 Challenges and Successes in Swim Spa Manufacturing16:50 The Evolution of Swim Spa Technology21:51 Marketing and Selling Swim Spas23:57 The Growth of the Swim Spa Market26:05 Modern Swim Spa Developments30:27 Bullfrog Spas and Industry Insights32:16 Starting Water Aerobics with My 10-Year-Old32:53 Fiberglass to Acrylic Transition in Swim Spas36:23 The First Portable Spas41:15 Innovations in Swim Spa Jets46:01 Career Journey in the Spa Industry51:01 Retirement Adventures and Final Thoughts
In this episode of The SpaRetailer Podcast, hosted by Megan Kendrick, Dustin Hutcheson, a wellness consultant at Hot Spring Spas of Iowa and Minnesota, shares his journey in the hot tub industry. Hutcheson discusses the origins of the company, originally started by Paul Schaben in 1968 as an agricultural business, and how it evolved into a successful hot tub dealership with seven stores. He details his transition from car sales to selling hot tubs, accents the importance of personal branding and utilizing social media in sales, and highlights his company’s focus on customer service and comprehensive follow-up. Hutcheson also shares insights on the benefits of wellness products like hot tubs, saunas and cold plunges based on his personal usage. Challenges and lessons learned from events like the Bacon Festival are discussed alongside successes in leveraging promotional ideas. The interview concludes with Hutcheson’s reflections on continuous learning and personal development in sales. https://sparetailer.com/feed/podcast/ Show Notes with Timestamps: 00:00 – Dustin Hutcheson Podcast00:58 – Company History and Origins04:58 – Dustin’s Entry into Hot Tub Sales08:25 – The Story Behind the ‘Charmer’ Nickname10:08 – Building a Personal Brand in Sales11:58 – Sales Philosophy and Personal Background31:03 – Hot Tub Health Benefits and Product Experience35:53 – Surprises in the Hot Tub Industry40:40 – Company Success Factors48:39 – The SpaRetailer Five Question
In this episode of The SpaRetailer Podcast, host Megan interviews Kayla Hagan, associate product marketing manager at King Technology. Kayla shares her journey into the pool and spa industry, discusses her role in new product development, and provides insights into King Technology’s latest innovations, including the Balancing Basics Kit and the FROG VIP program. The conversation covers the importance of water care, the challenges faced by new hot tub owners and how King Technology supports both consumers and pro dealers. Kayla also reflects on her career path, experiences at trade shows and offers advice for women entering the industry. https://sparetailer.com/feed/podcast/ Show Notes: 00:00 Introduction to Kayla Hagan from King Technology 01:20 Kayla’s Journey to the Pool and Spa Industry 02:55 Tour of King Technology’s New Facility 08:31 Introducing the New Balancing Basics Kit 14:10 FROG VIP Program Details 28:01 Personal Experience and Career Background 34:52 Wrap Up and Trade Show Discussion
In this episode of The SpaRetailer Podcast, host Megan Kendrick talks with Travis Hogan, owner of Fiesta Pools and Spas in Tulsa, Oklahoma. They discuss how Travis got into the hot tub and pool business, starting from his humble beginnings in pool maintenance to eventually purchasing and expanding Fiesta Pools. Travis shares insights on business challenges, including transitioning into a well-established company at a young age, learning servant leadership, and implementing strategic planning to expand and adapt the business. They also delve into the importance of convenience for customers and the impact of recent economic changes, like tariffs. Additionally, Travis discusses his passion for real estate and how it complements his retail business. The episode emphasizes the significance of creating a positive company culture, making informed business decisions, and continually learning and adapting in a competitive market. https://sparetailer.com/feed/podcast/ Show Notes: 00:00 Welcome to the Spa Retailer Podcast00:41 Meet Travis Hogan of Fiesta Pools and Spas01:11 A Field Trip to Fiesta Pools01:31 The Value of Business Travel03:38 Diverse Offerings at Fiesta Pools04:58 Travis Hogan’s Journey into the Hot Tub Business09:26 The Importance of Real Estate in Business17:37 Challenges and Lessons in Business Ownership21:00 The Role of Servant Leadership31:48 Building a Support Network38:48 Expanding Fiesta Pools and Spas44:05 Navigating Real Estate and Rent Challenges44:56 The Importance of Convenience in Consumer Behavior46:09 Adapting to COVID-19 and Changing Retail Landscape48:03 Balancing Proximity and Technology in Retail50:15 Facing Industry Transitions and Uncertainties55:08 Managing Tariffs and Pricing Strategies58:33 Reflecting on Business Decisions and Growth01:05:10 Lessons from Early Jobs and Business Ventures01:08:38 The Value of Core Values and Leadership01:11:37 Book Recommendations and Personal Insights01:16:54 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
In this episode of The SpaRetailer Podcast, host Megan Kendrick interviews Scott Gettings, co-owner of Hot Tub Superstore, which has locations in Reno, Vegas, and Scottsdale, Arizona. Scott shares his background coming from the car business and how he transitioned into the hot tub industry through a partnership with his roommate and now business partner, Dan. They discuss the importance of consistent sales training, strategic planning around economic and political climates, and the challenges of expanding into new markets. Scott also emphasizes the significance of community involvement and maintaining a local business feel, along with navigating the complexities of financing and the importance of having complementary skills in a business partnership. This episode provides valuable insights into business growth, market expansion, and the operational intricacies of running multiple retail locations in the hot tub industry. https://sparetailer.com/feed/podcast/ Show Notes: 00:00 Introduction to the SpaRetailer Podcast00:36 Meet Scott Gettings: From Cars to Hot Tubs01:05 Scott’s Background and Family Life02:16 Transition from Car Business to Hot Tub Industry03:46 Partnership Dynamics and Business Growth05:34 Navigating the Hot Tub Market During the Pandemic07:11 Sales Strategies and Training11:03 Expansion Plans and Market Challenges17:42 Local Business Strategies and Community Engagement20:39 Financing Options and Industry Insights21:57 Balancing Business Models: High Volume vs. High Margin23:31 The Importance of Business Identity and Customer Service23:54 Economic Climate and Financing Options27:03 Navigating Business Partnerships30:52 Challenges and Rewards of Business Expansion37:57 Lessons Learned: Product Failures and Successes40:43 Managing Remote Stores and Leveraging Technology41:39 Recommended Reads for Business Owners42:41 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
In this episode of The SpaRetailer Podcast, hosted by Megan Kendrick, the owner of SpaRetailer Magazine, Jim Parker, CEO of Ahh!some Water Care, discusses his journey into the hot tub industry, the development and expansion of his family’s business, and the importance of proper water care. Jim shares insights into the origins of Ahh!some Water Care, initially developed by his father and business partner in 1996, emphasizing its core product for eliminating biofilm in pools and hot tubs. Megan and Jim delve into strategies for educating customers about water care and confronting biofilm build-up, the complications of different testing methods, and the evolving needs and expectations of customers. They also touch upon the operational aspects of taking over a family business, including challenges such as accounting and maintaining effective communication and service standards. The episode concludes with discussions on the value of recurring services for dealers and personal anecdotes about favorite shows, highlighting the overlap of personal and professional dynamics. https://sparetailer.com/feed/podcast/ Show Notes: 00:00 Introduction to the SpaRetailer Podcast01:22 Jim Parker’s Journey into the Hot Tub Industry03:14 The Growth of Ahh!some Water Care04:31 Innovations and Product Development10:06 Understanding Biofilm and Water Care Challenges15:01 Best Practices for Hot Tub Maintenance26:42 Convenience and Customer Service in the Hot Tub Industry31:57 The Amazon Dilemma for Retailers34:02 The Importance of Convenience in Retail35:08 Educational Value in Retail Stores42:13 Transitioning Business Ownership47:48 Challenges and Surprises of Business Ownership53:08 The SpaRetailer Five01:01:36 Conclusion and Podcast Sign-Off
In this episode of The SpaRetailer Podcast, host Megan Kendrick converses with Tom Vaughn, the president of Water’s Choice. Vaughn shares insights about the development and benefits of enzyme-based water care products, the startup challenges with them and the company’s evolution. They also talk about Water’s Choice’s new Buzz Off product for repelling insects around pools and hot tubs using ion technology. Vaughn provides anecdotes from his diverse career, confesses his hardest lessons learned and his penchant for golf and family time as a relaxation outlet. https://sparetailer.com/feed/podcast/ Show Notes: 00:00 Introduction to The SpaRetailer Podcast00:47 Trade Show Adventures and Mishaps02:28 Tom Vaughn’s Journey into the Hot Tub Industry04:12 Discovering and Perfecting Enzyme Products08:29 Challenges and Benefits of Enzyme Use25:30 New Innovations: Buzz Off Ion Shield32:23 Bug Behavior Near the Spa33:03 Challenges with Wind and Evaporation33:30 Pool Cover and Humidity Effects34:49 Introduction to the Inventor and Product35:16 Understanding the Technology36:52 Practical Applications and Customer Feedback40:04 Zone Sprayer for Outdoor Areas43:03 Enzymes and Water Care Benefits49:33 Personal Reflections and Career Insights58:38 Final Thoughts and Podcast Conclusion
This episode of The SpaRetailer Podcast features an insightful conversation between host Megan Kendrick and AJ Cada from Cada Pools and Spas in St. Charles, Illinois. AJ discusses his journey into the pool and spa industry, which began in 2012, as well as the evolution and growth of his family’s business over 45 years. The discussion covers the challenges and benefits of working in a family-run business, the importance of staying updated with industry trends and technologies, and the strategic use of retail space. AJ also highlights their customer service excellence, their innovative greenhouse showroom, and the successful integration of multiple business divisions, from construction and retail to maintenance and service. The podcast concludes with AJ sharing some personal anecdotes about his career and insights into effective business practices. https://sparetailer.com/feed/podcast/ Show Notes: 00:00 Introduction to the Spa Retailer Podcast00:36 Guest Introduction: AJ Cada from Cada Pools and Spas01:58 AJ’s Journey into the Industry03:53 Expanding the Business: New Showroom and Operations05:33 The Origins of Cada Pools and Spas10:53 Family Dynamics in Business12:44 Leadership and Roles within the Company14:38 Hands-On Sales Approach16:00 Celebrating Milestones and Overcoming Challenges17:11 Engaging the Next Generation21:15 Reflecting on the Industry’s Best Years21:34 Adapting to Consumer Feedback21:50 The Surge in Pool Services22:37 Shifts in the Industry During Economic Downturns23:36 The Social Influence of Hot Tubs24:33 Excelling in Customer Service25:15 The Role of Technology in Customer Interaction27:07 Unique Aspects of Cato Pools and Spas27:56 The Importance of Water Chemistry Expertise31:32 Challenges and Successes in the Business33:31 Personal Reflections and Experiences40:50 Final Thoughts and Podcast Conclusion
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Apple Podcasts rankings via the Mato Topic Intelligence Platform.
Observed September 10, 2026. Cached outside the daily freshness window; the positions keep the date they were taken on.
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