The Mast Podcast
The Mast Podcast is where technology, innovation, and inspiration converge. Each episode features conversations with industry leaders from diverse fields, including service companies, pool builders, and manufacturers. We dive into their challenges and creative strategies for adapting and thriving in a rapidly changing world.
All Episodes
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Behind the Scenes of Custom Pools: Budgeting, Trends, and Client Advice
In this week’s episode, host Dalton Pence sits down with Creig Prince, co-owner of 360 Custom Pools and R and R Pool Service, for an inside look at what it takes to thrive in the ever-evolving pool industry. Creig shares his unconventional journey from the fitness world to becoming a staple in the East Texas pool business, touches on industry trends from freeform to contemporary straight-line pool designs and explains why saltwater systems are losing ground in certain markets. Dalton and Creig discuss the crucial importance of transparency around budgeting for major home projects, the shift toward creating luxurious outdoor experiences, and design decisions like coping, hardscaping, tanning ledges, and even the rising popularity of turf in poolscapes. Creig also gives practical advice on the service side, highlighting common mistakes maintenance teams make and why attention to detail matters. Whether you’re a builder, service provider, or homeowner dreaming of your backyard oasis, you’ll find actionable insights and real-world tips in this candid conversation. Key Moments 00:00 Staying Power in the Pool Industry 03:43 Swimming Pool Design Trends Shift 09:07 3D Software Challenges in Construction 11:43 Budget: The Ultimate Hurdle 16:50 Tanning Ledges: To Keep or Not? 19:36 Avoid Pool Maintenance Autopilot 22:19 Homeowner Budgeting Insight Follow Creig Prince Website: https://360custompools.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/creig-prince-9a167822 Follow Mast Sales: Host LinkedIn: https://mastsalesgroup.com Company LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/mastsalesgroup/ Podcast Website: https://mastsalesgroup.com Enjoyed this episode? Don’t miss an opportunity to gain insights from the brightest minds in the pool and outdoor living industry. Subscribe and stay tuned for more expert conversations!.png)
Balancing Tradition, Technology, and Family in the Pool Business with Jay Tucker
In this episode of The Mast Podcast, I sit down with Jay Tucker, owner of Swim World Pools in Tennessee, to explore the dynamic balance between tradition, technology, and family in the pool business. Jay shares the fascinating history of his family-run business, which started in 1968, and how it has evolved over the decades. We discuss the significant technological advancements in the industry, from automation to design tools, and how these innovations have transformed customer experiences. Jay also emphasizes the importance of education over sales, ensuring customers make informed decisions about their pool investments. Additionally, we touch on the challenges of competing with big-box retailers and how Swim World Pools has adapted by offering an online store and innovative customer service solutions. Join us for an insightful conversation on maintaining legacy while embracing change in the pool industry.-1.png)
From Cleaning Pools to Award-Winning Builds: John Versfelt’s Story with SouthernWind Pools
In this episode, host Dalton Pence sits down with John Versfelt, owner of SouthernWind Pools in Texas—a standout leader in the pool design and construction industry since 1983. Dalton and John dive into SouthernWind’s journey from humble beginnings cleaning apartment complex pools, to becoming a top 50 pool builder known for its attention to detail, transparency, and award-winning backyard transformations. John shares why building authentic relationships with clients, setting clear expectations, and embracing both innovation and tradition have been crucial for the company’s longevity. The conversation highlights practical advice on differentiating your business, the power of team culture, and how ongoing learning and adaptability are key in navigating an ever-evolving industry. Whether you’re a pool professional or an entrepreneur looking for inspiration, this episode is packed with insights and actionable advice from a proven industry leader. Tune in to learn how exceeding expectations—without exceeding budgets—remains at the heart of SouthernWind’s philosophy, and why placing people first is a timeless business strategy. Key Moments 00:00 "Taking the Leap" 03:13 "John's Award-Winning Insights" 09:00 Texas Pool Market Dynamics 12:36 "10 Reasons for Southern Wind Pools" 14:00 Educated Customers Are Ideal Clients 20:15 Prioritize Team Over Numbers 21:53 Key Takeaway: Apply Expert Advice Follow John Versfelt Website: https://www.southernwindpools.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-versfelt-494369a Follow Mast Sales: Host LinkedIn: https://mastsalesgroup.com Company LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/mastsalesgroup/ Podcast Website: https://mastsalesgroup.com Enjoyed this episode? Don’t miss an opportunity to gain insights from the brightest minds in the pool and outdoor living industry. Subscribe and stay tuned for more expert conversations!
Passing the Baton: The Future of the Pool Industry with WAVE Young Professionals
In this episode of the Mast Sales Podcast, host Dalton Pence sits down with a dynamic trio of rising stars from the WAVE Young Professionals Network: Allen Jerabeck, Melanie Brzozowski, and Alex Jacobs. Together, they dive into the changing tides of the pool and spa industry, discussing what it means to be a young professional in a space traditionally led by an older generation. The panel explores topics ranging from embracing technology and certifications, to navigating adversity, redefining leadership, and laying out a blueprint for succession planning and industry transformation. With a shared passion for progress and a commitment to lifting others up, these industry leaders bring both energy and insight into how the next generation can—and will—reshape the future. Whether you're a seasoned professional or a newcomer looking to make waves, this conversation offers actionable advice, real-world experiences, and plenty of motivation to keep swimming forward. Key Moments: 00:02 – Meet the guests: Allen, Alex & Melanie from the WAVE Network. 01:24 – Allen on leading WAVE and supporting young pros. 02:09 – Alex’s journey from MLB scouting to pool sales. 03:07 – Melanie on mentorship, leadership, and winning Young Pro of the Year. 04:30 – What is WAVE and how to get involved. 07:41 – Why certifications and training matter. 09:24 – Shifting the stigma around trade careers. 13:14 – Allen on finding community and purpose in the industry. 15:25 – The succession gap—and how young leaders can step up. 19:10 – Tech adoption and why it's changing everything. 22:10 – AI, automation, and smarter service tools. 32:25 – Real stories of overcoming early-career adversity. 40:56 – What the next-gen looks for in an employer. 44:27 – Why collaboration beats competition. 45:56 – Final takeaways: grow, lead, and trust the process. 48:20 – Melanie’s message to women in the pool industry. Connect with Melanie Brzozowski LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melanie-brzozowski-09218795/ Website: https://www.aspools.com/ Connect with Alex Jacobs LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jacobsalexander/ Website: https://www.heritagepoolsupplygroup.com/en/ Connect with Allen Jerabeck LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/allen-j-6372983b/ Website: https://byrdmoreton.com/ Follow Mast Sales: Host LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dalton-pence-40a371143/ Company LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/mastsalesgroup/ Podcast Website: https://www.linkedin.com/company/mastsalesgroup/ Enjoyed this episode? Don’t miss an opportunity to gain insights from the brightest minds in the pool and outdoor living industry. Subscribe to the Mast Sales Podcast, leave a review, and share this episode with anyone who loves innovation and inspiration. As always, remember: a rising tide raises all ships..png)