In episode # 294 of the Pool Nation Podcast, Edgar De Jesus sits down live at AquaStar with Bryan Chrissan and Michael Kraus to break down one of the most important topics in the pool industry today training, repetition, and real-world experience.

From early career mistakes to high-level field knowledge, this episode dives into what it really takes to build confidence, skill, and success in the pool service industry.

You’ll hear real stories from the field including costly mistakes, hard-earned lessons, and the power of mentorship along with a deep conversation on how education in the industry has evolved from basic classroom learning to hands-on, immersive training.

Whether you’re a new pool tech or a seasoned pro, this episode will challenge how you think about learning, growth, and what it takes to become elite in this industry.

💡 If you’re not getting reps… you’re not getting better.

⏱️ Chapter Timestamps

00:00 – Podcast intro & Visionary Partners
01:00 – Meet Bryan & Michael + setting the stage
03:00 – Industry changes: Then vs. now in training
07:30 – Real-world mistakes (and what they teach you)
12:00 – Travel story + behind-the-scenes laughs
20:00 – Why networking is EVERYTHING in this industry
25:00 – Pool Nation Bootcamps & $10K Pool Pro Challenge
30:00 – The importance of reps in building confidence
36:00 – Rookie mistakes: filters, pumps, heaters & more
41:00 – Learning from failure vs. wasting time
45:00 – The power of mentorship & calling for help
50:00 – Evolution of pool industry education
56:00 – Why hands-on training beats classroom learning
01:05:00 – Creating a safe learning environment
01:10:00 – Real impact: changing lives through training
01:18:00 – Long-term thinking vs. short-term sales
01:25:00 – Relationships vs. transactions in business
01:30:00 – Final thoughts: learn, share, grow
01:40:00 – Outro + where to connect

🙌 Sponsor Acknowledgment (SEO-Friendly)

A huge thank you to our Pool Nation Visionary Partners for supporting this podcast and the pool industry:

The SPPA
Blu-ray XL
AquaStar Pool Products
Natural Chemistry
Raypak
Heritage Pool Supply
Hayward Pool Products
Poolside Tech
Pool Brain
Nidec
OnCore Filtration

We appreciate everything you do to help move the industry forward.

E-294 Pool Nation Podcast - From Rookie Mistakes to Mastery: Why Reps, Training & Real Experience Build Elite Pool Pros