E-237 Pool Nation Podcast - Deep Dive into Cal Hypo with Robby and Shay with Solenis

E-237 of the Pool Nation Podcast - Welcome to the Feb 28 Pool Nation podcast—the go-to resource for pool service, repair, and industry insights. In this extensive episode, host Edgar DeJesus, along with co-hosts John JJ Flawless and Zach the Pool Boy (plus special guest Spider), dive deep into the world of Calcium Hypochlorite (Cal Hypo). Learn about its history, production, and why it’s the powerhouse sanitizer in both residential and commercial pools. The conversation covers everything from the technical chemistry and safe handling of Cal Hypo to the exciting details of the upcoming $10K Pool Pro Challenge and hands-on bootcamps in Texas and California. Whether you’re a seasoned pool professional or just getting started, this episode is packed with expert insights, actionable tips, and a healthy dose of industry banter to help you elevate your pool business and service game.

 

00:00:00 – Intro: Welcome to the Pool Nation podcast; Edgar introduces the show, the hosts, and sets the stage for a deep dive into pool industry topics. 00:01:00 – Host & Guest Introductions: Edgar, John, and Zach introduce themselves and welcome special guest Spider, highlighting the pool pro spirit. 00:02:00 – Sponsor Shoutouts: A thank you to visionary partners like SPPA, Blu ray Excel, AquaStar, Natural Chemistry, Raypak, Heritage Pool Supply, Hayward Pool Products, Poolside Tech, and Pool Marine. 00:03:00 – Live Banter & Weather Chat: Casual conversation about cold Texas weather, energy levels, and a preview of the day’s discussion. 00:04:00 – Personal Updates & Humor: Light-hearted exchanges on personal energy, filters, and humorous banter among the hosts. 00:05:00 – Bootcamp Announcements: Edgar previews the Heritage Bootcamp in McKinney, Texas, detailing the hands-on training in pumps, filters, wiring, and business courses. 00:07:00 – Technical Deep Dive Begins: Introduction to the Pool Pro Challenge and qualifiers; discussion on scoring, judging, and the upcoming Las Vegas championship. 00:08:00 – Cash & Competition Talk: Funny moments about the $10K prize, cash props, and the promise of big bragging rights for winners. 00:09:00 – Championship & Qualifier Details: Explanation of the competition structure, qualification rounds in McKinney and Oxnard, and the automated leaderboard system. 00:10:00 – Manuals & Safety Protocols: Emphasis on reading manufacturer manuals to ensure proper dosing and safety during the challenges. 00:12:00 – Business & Training Courses: Overview of additional bootcamp events (including the Raypak bootcamp) focused on business efficiency and operational strategies. 00:13:00 – Community & Awards: Discussion about the Pool Nation Award, celebrating pool pros by the pool pros, and the importance of community recognition. 00:14:00 – Transition to Cal Hypo Deep Dive: Introduction to the educational segment on Calcium Hypochlorite (Cal Hypo) and its significance in pool sanitation. 00:17:00 – Meet the Solenis Team: Shay Parker and Robbie Walker introduce themselves and share insights on Solenis’ role in water treatment and pool chemistry. 00:18:00 – Industry Legacy & Personal Stories: Personal anecdotes and the evolution of pool maintenance from the early days to modern methods. 00:19:00 – The Journey Begins: Discussion on career paths, regional pride, and the importance of pool chemistry expertise. 00:20:00 – Cal Hypo Fundamentals: Detailed explanation of what Cal Hypo is, from its raw materials to its manufacturing process and grading for industrial vs. residential use. 00:21:00 – Solenis Overview & Impact: In-depth look at Solenis, its global presence, and how its product portfolio supports various water treatment applications. 00:22:00 – Product Portfolio & Brands: Conversation on recognizable brands under Solenis, including Pool Life, Bacquacil, Serona, and equipment like feeders and granulated chlorine. 00:24:00 – Cal Hypo Production Process: How Cal Hypo