E-321 Pool Nation Podcast - The Next Generation of Pool Industry Leaders | 30 Under 40

Episode 321 Pool Nation Podcast. The next generation of pool industry leaders is already here.

In this episode of the Pool Nation Podcast, Edgar De Jesus sits down with Meagan Kendrick, owner of Pool Pro Magazine, and four of the women nominated for the 2026 Pool Nation Awards 30 Under 40.

Their paths into the swimming pool industry couldn't be more different. From pool renovations and plaster to commercial pool management, lifeguarding, pool design, landscaping, customer service and leadership, these women show just how many opportunities exist inside the pool and spa industry.

Chelsea shares how she went from receptionist to helping lead an operation completing hundreds of pool renovations each year, and why creating a “Disney-level” customer experience has become part of how she approaches the business.

Julia takes us inside a side of the pool industry that doesn't get talked about nearly enough: commercial aquatics. She explains what it takes to manage HOA and country club pools, recruit and train hundreds of seasonal lifeguards, maintain safety standards and manage the responsibility that comes with keeping swimmers safe.

Courtney shares her journey from studying agricultural science to helping grow Texas Outdoor Oasis from a four-person company into a full-service outdoor living business. She also explains how design, permitting, landscaping and construction all have to work together to deliver a better customer experience.

Amanda takes us inside the massive operation behind seasonal commercial pools, including lifeguard recruiting, international staffing, pool openings and closings, inspections, maintenance, customer relationships and overseeing dozens of aquatic facilities.

The conversation also gets into something bigger: where the swimming pool industry is headed.

Meagan and Edgar discuss how much the industry has changed, the growth of education and collaboration among pool professionals, the opportunities available to the next generation, and why there truly is a place for almost anyone to build a career in the pool industry.

If you're a pool service professional, pool business owner, builder, designer, technician, manufacturer, distributor or someone considering a career in the swimming pool industry, this episode gives you a look at just how big this industry really is.

TIMESTAMPS

00:00 - Welcome to the Pool Nation Podcast01:20 - Meet Meagan Kendrick and the 30 Under 40 nominees02:00 - New Orleans and the upcoming pool industry expo10:00 - Ge