In Episode 306 of the Pool Nation Podcast - The Pool Nation Awards are officially back, and nominations are now open!

In this episode , Edgar and John "JJ Flawless" dive deep into the story behind the Pool Nation Awards, why recognizing pool professionals matters, and how these awards have become one of the most anticipated celebrations in the swimming pool industry.

The guys break down the 2026 award categories, discuss recent changes based on pool pro feedback, explain the nomination and voting process, and share what it takes to stand out as a nominee. They also reflect on the origins of the awards, the legacy of Bob Lowry, the importance of celebrating industry leaders while they're still with us, and why the Pool Nation community continues to elevate the swimming pool industry year after year.

Plus, Edgar and John tease a major industry announcement coming August 7 that they believe will be a game-changer for pool professionals nationwide.

Whether you're a pool service professional, builder, retailer, trainer, manufacturer, distributor, or industry leader, this episode is packed with insight, inspiration, and a reminder of why community matters.

👉 Nominate a deserving pool professional today.
👉 Get involved in the Pool Nation Awards.
👉 Celebrate the people who make our industry stronger every day.

Episode Timestamps

00:00 Welcome to the Pool Nation Podcast
01:00 Today's Topics: Pool Nation Awards & Industry Announcement Tease
02:00 Thanking Pool Nation Visionary Partners
03:00 Baby Watch 2026 with JJ Flawless
08:00 Women's Summit 2026 Update & Sold-Out Event
12:00 August 7 Industry-Changing Announcement Teaser
14:00 Why August 7 Could Change Pool Industry Education
17:00 Hayward Training, Boot Camps & Upcoming Events
18:00 Pool Nation Awards 2026 Overview
20:00 New Award Categories & Industry Feedback
23:00 Trailblazer, Trainer of the Year & Pool Guy/Girl of the Year Discussion
24:00 How to Submit Nominations
26:00 Voting Process & Important Dates
27:00 The Story Behind the Pool Nation Awards
29:00 Bob Lowry's Legacy & Lifetime Achievement Award
32:00 Why Pool Nation Gives Pool Pros a Voice
35:00 Celebrating the Service Industry & Aftermarket Professionals
37:00 Sponsor Break
43:00 Looking Back at the First Pool Nation Awards
46:00 Growth of the Awards & Industry Support
48:00 HASA After Party & Award Night Experience
49:00 Favorite Award Categories & Why They Matter
52:00 Why Pool Guy & Pool Girl of the Year Are Special
55:00 The Brotherhood & Sisterhood of Pool Pros
57:00 Sponsor Break
01:01:00 New Orleans, PSP Expo & Pool Nation Awards 2026
01:02:00 $25,000 Pool Pro Challenge Updates
01:05:00 More Prizes, Bigger Competition & What's Next
01:06:00 Final Thoughts & August 7 Reminder
01:08:00 Industry Talk: The Washington Memorial Pool Project
01:10:00 Closing Remarks

Special Thanks to Our Sponsors

A huge thank you to our incredible Pool Nation partners and sponsors for supporting education, training, and the future of the swimming pool industry:

Thank you for helping Pool Nation fulfill its mission of helping pool professionals master the business and perfect the craft.