The PromoMinds Podcast
The PromoMinds Podcast is a candid look at business, marketing, and leadership through the lens of the Canadian pool & spa industry. Hosted by Steve Leslie, the show features real conversations with builders, suppliers, and business owners about what’s actually happening on the ground — from sales and branding to economic pressure, burnout, and long-term opportunity. This isn’t hype or theory. It’s practical insight, honest discussion, and big-picture thinking for professionals who want to build stronger businesses, adapt to changing markets, and stay mentally sharp in an industry that never slows down. About the Evolution of the Show The PromoMinds Podcast originally launched as a broader exploration of marketing, entrepreneurship, and personal growth for solopreneurs and small business owners. As the show evolved — and as real conversations with builders, suppliers, and business owners deepened — its focus naturally sharpened around the Canadian pool & spa industry. Earlier episodes reflect the foundational themes of branding, mindset, and selling yourself, while newer episodes apply those lessons directly to the realities of today’s industry. Together, they tell the full story of what it takes to build a business that lasts. Let's Connect: Facebook: The PromoMinds Podcast YouTube: @PromoMinds LinkedIn: the-steve-leslie
Episodes
In this episode, Steve breaks down what the 2025 Canadian Federal Election means for Canadian pool professionals. With Mark Carney now leading a Liberal minority government, we look at what this could mean for housing policy, energy efficiency programs, and the broader pool and spa supply chain.
We’ll dive into how trade tensions with the U.S. and China are influencing prices and availability of key materials like stee...
In this episode of the PromoMinds Podcast, Steve Leslie returns after a chaotic couple of weeks—ice storms, power outages, and laptop breakdowns—to deliver a much-needed economic update and roadmap for Canadian pool professionals heading into the 2025 season.
With rising mortgage defaults, shifting trade tariffs, and a bear market that’s been quietly unfolding since the pandemic boom, this episode is your no-fluff wake...
In this episode of the PromoMinds Podcast, host Steve Leslie sits down with Chris Rowan from Winnipeg, Manitoba, to dive deep into the transition from being an employee to becoming a successful business owner. Chris shares his inspiring story of starting out in pool maintenance, moving into the building side of the industry, and eventually taking the leap to build his own brand in a highly competitive market.&nb...
The pool industry in Canada is facing some big challenges—U.S. tariffs on steel and aluminum, the latest Bank of Canada interest rate cut, and even a new Prime Minister. But with every challenge comes opportunity.
In this episode, I break down:
✅ The back-and-forth tariff battle between Canada and the U.S. and how it’s impacting pool professionals
✅ The latest Bank of Canada announcement a...
In this episode of the PromoMinds Podcast, Steve Leslie discusses the impact of the Trump tariffs on the Canadian pool and spa industry in 2025. With new 25% tariffs on all imports from Canada to the U.S. set to take effect on March 4, Steve provides an analysis based on past trends, current economic conditions, and what swimming pool professionals can expect moving forward.
Key Discussion Points:
- Background o...
In this milestone episode celebrating the first anniversary of The PromoMinds Podcast, host Steve Leslie reflects on a year of podcasting and introduces exciting updates, including his upcoming speaking gig at the Canadian Pool & Spa Expo in December. Steve also dives into branding, sharing personal stories and practical strategies on how to reshape how others perceive you, emphasizing the importance of consistent...
In this solo episode of the PromoMinds podcast, host Steve Leslie shares valuable insights tailored for solopreneurs and small business owners on effectively generating leads with limited budgets. He emphasizes the importance of understanding the sales funnel, particularly the stages of awareness, interest, consideration, and decision. Through a practical example involving an acupuncturist, Steve illustrates how creat...
In this episode of The PromoMinds Podcast, host Steve Leslie discusses the importance of building a personal brand and crafting one's unique story. He shares his journey in the swimming pool industry and how he leveraged his interests, such as running and real estate, to create a distinctive brand identity. Steve mentions influential figures like Andy Andrews, Jesse Itzler, David Goggins, and Terry Fox, drawing inspir...
Guess who's back, back again,
Randy's back! Tell a friend!
Randy Chaffee, aka The Hybrid Road Warrior, joins the podcast once again to discuss his approach to economic down turns and recessions over his 4+ decades in the roofing industry (which is closer to 5 as we find out in this episode).
Find out how a manufacturer's sales rep truly approaches a recession. Is it all "doom and gloom" or does this m...
In 2021, I had an article published as the feature in Pool & Spa Marketing Magazine's "State Of The Industry" edition. I spoke on the underlying economy and what may be happening beneath the chaos. Today, we take a look back at this article, and how it aligns with today's markets. I also speak on the Repo Markets in the Canada and the US. Full disclosure, I am not an economist, just someone actively learning from ...
Taking a look at the Canadian Housing Crisis and what a lower interest rate means as compared to the US Dollar. Looking at the turmoil that Ontario could see in the coming few years. Steve shares what he's been seeing in real-time with the markets, new listings coming on, as well as the record breaking condo inventory in the GTA. Steve even shares insights from previous recessions and how it affected the housing marke...
In this episode, Ralph Lembcke, owner of R. Lembcke & Associates, provides an in-depth look into the intricacies of managing construction projects and navigating contract negotiations. Ralph shares his expertise on planning, risk mitigation, and maintaining financial health in construction projects. The discussion also touches on effective strategies for handling supply chain disruptions and the importance of clea...
This episode features Chris and Wes, the founders of Blue Collar Marketing, a digital marketing agency specializing in the blue-collar sector. We dive into their entrepreneurial journey, exploring the challenges they faced in scaling their business, the valuable lessons learned from their first venture, and the importance of finding a niche market. Chris and Wes also share their favorite resources for business owners,...
Feeling frustrated with customer service?
You're not alone. In this episode, Steve Leslie chats with Leigh Hinsperger of Hinspergers Poly Industries Ltd. about the challenges businesses face in the post-pandemic world. Leigh shares his experiences from both sides of the counter, offering valuable tips on how to improve customer experience (#customerexperience) and build trust (#trust) with customers.
Dis...
Thinking of transforming your backyard into a stunning oasis? This episode focuses on the world of backyard design and construction with Chris Bowman and Marette Sharp, the creative minds behind Majestic Pools of Barrie, Ontario. They'll share their expertise on crafting unique pools and landscapes that perfectly suit your needs and budget. Whether you're seeking a tranquil escape or a fun-filled family haven, Majesti...
In this episode of Meet Your Contractor, we explore the power of video marketing for contractors and landscapers with Bri Wardle, a passionate videographer and founder of Elevated Productions. Bri shares her journey from film studies to launching her own business, specializing in creating high-quality video content for the construction and landscaping industry.
Struggling to showcase the skill and beauty of your landsc...
In this episode of the PromoMinds Podcast, we sit down with Canada's only recipient of the Pleatco Perfect Pool Guy Award - Cory Eagles of Eagles Pool Service in Riverview, New Brunswick. in 2015, Cory also won Pleatco's Big Heart Award after constructing an indoor pool to help save a young dog's life. Cory shares the journey of what led to this heartwarming story and how it revolutionized his business. He provides an...
In this episode, we delve into the world of contracting and consumer protection with Angelo Jr of Pools By Angelo in Windsor, Ontario. A seasoned professional in the pool industry. Angelo shares invaluable insights into how contractors can build trust with homeowners, emphasizing the importance of transparency, communication, and reputable affiliations. From discussing progressive payment structures to advocating for ...
Join us as we delve into the world of business innovation and connection with Rhett Bradshaw, owner of Vantage LeisureScapes. In this episode, Rhett shares his insights on the importance of fostering connections with younger minds, constantly innovating to stand out in a competitive market, and creating memorable customer experiences. From personal touches to genuine engagement, Rhett highlights the transformative pow...
In this episode of the PromoMinds podcast interview series, host Steve sits down with John from Action Home Services to delve into the world of construction and landscaping. From humble beginnings to managing a team of 150, John shares his journey and insights into navigating the industry's challenges. Discover how Action Home Services adapted during the tumultuous year of 2020 and their approach to the evolving...
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