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
Maximizing Cartridge Filter Performance with Unicel’s President Christine Schaefer
In this episode, host Dalton Pence, territory sales manager for Mast Sales Group, welcomes Christine Schaeffer, President of Unicel, a company with decades of expertise in aftermarket replacement filters. Christine shares her unique perspective as someone born into the pool industry and now carrying on her family’s legacy of innovation and quality manufacturing. Together, Dalton and Christine dive into the evolution of cartridge filters, common misconceptions around filtration, and practical ways to extend filter life. From the early innovations in synthetic media with DuPont to modern maintenance best practices, Christine highlights how understanding the whole pool ecosystem—not just the filter—leads to better performance and fewer frustrations for service techs and homeowners alike. If you’ve ever wondered why filters fail, how water chemistry impacts longevity, or what simple practices make the biggest difference, this episode is packed with insights every pool professional and homeowner can apply. Key Moments 01:36 Christine’s entrance into the pool industry and family legacy 03:20 The origins of cartridge filter innovation 06:15 Balancing durability, efficiency, and cleanability in filtration media 09:20 Why the filter isn’t always the problem—it’s often water chemistry 11:30 What to expect when installing a new cartridge element 14:00 Common issues: backward plumbing and sealing problems 17:05 Best practices for cleaning cartridges (and what not to do) 19:56 How to maximize cartridge lifespan through consistency and chemistry 23:52 Final takeaway: the power of education across the industry Follow Christine Schaeffer LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christine-schaeffer-4ab419158 Website: https://www.unicelfilters.com/ 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!-2.png)
The Future of Pool Equipment Innovation with Blue Square’s CEO Jeremy Owens
In this episode of The Mast Podcast, host Dalton Pence sits down with Jeremy Owens, CEO of Blue Square Manufacturing, to explore the future of pool equipment innovation. They discuss Jeremy's unique journey from Navy pilot to industry leader and delve into how Blue Square is revolutionizing pool lighting and cleaning systems. With insights on technological advancements, the impact of tariffs, and the role of private equity in the pool industry, this conversation highlights the importance of adaptability and innovation for businesses. Jeremy emphasizes Blue Square's commitment to partnership and problem-solving, aiming to ease the installation and servicing processes for pool professionals. Tune in for valuable insights that could reshape your approach to the evolving pool equipment landscape..png)
Family Business to Industry Leader: Shasta Pools’ Journey with Skip Ast III
In this episode of Mast Sales, host Dan Bakotic sits down with Skip Ast III from Shasta Pools—an iconic, family-run business shaping Arizona’s pool industry since 1966. Skip walks us through Shasta’s rich history, sharing how his grandfather and great-uncle combined their complementary skills in sales and construction to lay the foundation for one of the country’s most elite pool builders. But it’s not all about history—this conversation dives deep into the challenges and opportunities that come with scaling a family business in the modern age. Skip unpacks how Shasta Pools balances its close-knit, family atmosphere with the realities of high-volume operations, emphasizing the importance of hiring for character over technical expertise, documenting processes, and embracing innovation—even when it means rethinking systems that have worked for decades. From candid lessons learned during the pandemic to the tools and strategies they've used to adapt and thrive, Skip offers invaluable insights for business owners looking to grow without losing their core values. If you’re curious about maximizing efficiency, vetting potential clients, or navigating the journey from small family shop to industry leader, you won’t want to miss this episode! Key Moments 04:13 "2024 Pool Industry Downturn" 08:23 Pandemic's Impact: Rethinking Processes 10:11 Pandemic's Lessons in Accountability 13:03 "Shifting Consumer Trends and Challenges" 16:38 "Affordable, Inclusive Pool Company" 20:12 Business Expansion Tips & Efficiency 24:41 "Team Alignment and Efficiency" 27:15 "Life's Nonlinear Journey" Follow Skip Ast III LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/skip-ast-iii-38860144/ 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!-2.png)
Entertaining Outside: Everything Pool Dealers Should Know About Grills
Dive into this sizzling episode of The Mast Podcast, where I, Dalton Pence, explore the world of outdoor grilling with Chuck Nitschke, the national director of sales at The Outdoor Plus. In "Entertaining Outside: Everything Pool Dealers Should Know About Grills," Chuck shares his expertise on incorporating grills into backyard designs, highlighting the rising trend of outdoor kitchens and the importance of quality materials like 304 stainless steel. We discuss the versatility of grills, including the growing popularity of griddles and Argentinean grills, and how they enhance outdoor entertaining. Whether you're a seasoned pool dealer or a homeowner looking to elevate your backyard, this episode offers valuable insights into making grilling a central part of your outdoor oasis. Tune in to learn how to turn your backyard into a culinary paradise.-1.png)