In episode #293 of the Pool Nation Podcast, we sit down with industry leaders Alicia Stephens and Michael G to break down what innovation really looks like in the pool industry—and why it matters more than ever for pool service pros, retailers, and business owners.

From next-generation pool chemicals and faster-dissolving chlorine technology to AI-powered training platforms and the future of education, this conversation goes deep into how the industry is evolving—and how you can stay ahead of it.

We’re not just talking about products—we’re talking about thinking differently, solving real problems, and building a better experience for your customers.

You’ll hear how innovation is reshaping:

Water chemistry and treatment strategies
Pool service efficiency and troubleshooting
Retail and customer experience
Training, certifications, and workforce development

Plus… we tease some major upcoming industry disruption you’re going to want to keep your eye on 👀

If you’re a pool pro, business owner, or industry leader looking to stay competitive, this is a must-listen episode.

🎯 WHAT YOU’LL LEARN

Why “old school” pool chemistry thinking is holding you back
How new chemical innovations are solving real field problems
The role of AI in training the next generation of pool pros
How to simplify your service process and reduce errors
Why innovation isn’t just for big companies—it’s for YOU

⏱️ CHAPTER TIMESTAMPS

00:00 – Intro: Welcome to Pool Nation
02:00 – Meet Alicia Stephens & Michael G
04:30 – Industry energy, culture & community
06:30 – Why innovation matters right now in the pool industry
09:30 – Michael’s background (Harvard, toys, marketing & beyond)
12:00 – Storytelling, branding & marketing in pools
15:00 – What “real innovation” actually means
18:00 – How the pool industry is changing (environment, chemicals, behavior)
22:00 – New product innovation: faster dissolving trichlor & shock technology
26:00 – Solving real problems for pool pros in the field
30:00 – Retail vs service: simplifying chemistry for success
34:00 – Multi-benefit products (the “multivitamin” approach)
38:00 – Algaecide + phosphate innovation explained
42:00 – New category: pool fragrance (yes… seriously 👀)
47:00 – AI-powered training & BioGuard University breakdown
52:00 – The future of education in the pool industry
57:00 – Why embracing change is critical for growth
1:01:00 – Final thoughts: innovation, mindset & opportunity
1:04:00 – Teasing what’s coming next (major disruption ahead)

🙌 THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS

A huge thank you to our amazing partners who continue to support the Pool Nation mission:

SPPA
Blu-Ray XL
AquaStar Pool Products
Natural Chemistry
Raypak
Heritage Pool Supply
Hayward Pool Products
Poolside Tech
Pool Brain
Nidec / U.S. Motors
OnCore Filtration

Your support helps us continue to bring education, innovation, and growth to pool pros everywhere.

🚀 FINAL

If you’re serious about growing your pool business, improving your chemistry knowledge, and staying ahead of industry trends—make sure you:

✔️ Subscribe to the Pool Nation Podcast
✔️ Share this episode with your team
✔️ Stay plugged into everything Pool Nation

Because the future of this industry belongs to those who learn faster, adapt quicker, and think differently.

E-293 Pool Nation Podcast Pool Industry Innovation EXPOSED: New Chemistry Tech, AI Training & What Pool Pros Must Know in 2026 with Alicia and Michael G