Government Shutdowns, Setbacks, and Standing Strong — The Pool Pros Who Keep Us Going

When most people think about government shutdowns, they picture empty federal buildings and delayed passport applications. But for pool service professionals across the country, the ripple effects can reach far beyond Washington D.C., touching everything from customer payments to equipment permits. In this eye-opening episode of Talking Pools Podcast, host Rudy Stankowitz breaks down the real-world impact of federal shutdowns on small pool businesses while celebrating the industry mentors who keep our community strong through any storm.

Understanding the Government Shutdown's Impact on Pool Businesses

While most private businesses continue operating normally during a government shutdown, pool service companies aren't immune to the indirect effects. Rudy Stankowitz provides a non-political, fact-based breakdown of what pool pros should expect during these uncertain times.

The Small Business Administration (SBA) often pauses or significantly slows down loan programs during shutdowns, which means pool business owners who applied for funding to expand, buy equipment, or open new locations might face frustrating delays. This can be particularly challenging for growing companies that have already made commitments based on expected funding.

Federal contracts present another major concern. Pool service companies that work directly with government facilities or subcontract for federal projects will likely see payments slow down and new projects delayed until the shutdown ends. For businesses heavily reliant on government work, this can create serious cash flow challenges.

If you maintain pools at federal facilities, for example, military housing, research labs, or federally funded community centers. I mean, I know I do a lot of stuff with the Army and quite a bit with the Navy as well. I don't expect to see much coming from there as long as this is going on.

— Rudy Stankowitz, Talking Pools Podcast

Regional Variations: Why Location Matters

The shutdown's impact varies dramatically based on geography. Pool service companies in areas with large federal workforces—near military bases, research labs, or major government offices—will likely experience more noticeable effects than those in purely residential markets.

In federal-heavy regions, pool service companies should prepare for customers to request reduced service frequencies, delay equipment upgrades, or struggle with payment timing. These aren't the typical late-paying customers pool pros deal with regularly—these are responsible clients facing genuine financial uncertainty through no fault of their own.

Conversely, businesses operating primarily in private residential neighborhoods or vacation properties might not notice much difference unless the shutdown extends for several months. Understanding your local market composition becomes crucial for predicting and preparing for potential impacts.

Practical Strategies for Navigating Uncertainty

Smart pool service owners should take proactive steps to weather shutdown-related challenges. Cash flow management becomes critical during these periods. If you normally extend credit to customers, monitor receivables more closely and communicate payment expectations clearly upfront.

For larger jobs, requiring deposits can help minimize financial surprises. Consider postponing major expansions or equipment purchases, especially if financing was part of your plan, until the situation stabilizes. Supply chain disruptions, while not directly caused by shutdowns, can occur as vendors become more conservative with inventory and shipping schedules.

Flexibility and clear communication with clients prove essential during these periods. Being understanding with federal employees while maintaining your business's financial health requires careful balance but demonstrates the professionalism that builds long-term customer loyalty.

Learning from Industry Legends: Greg Beard's Powerful Lessons

While discussing the current challenges facing pool professionals, the episode also celebrates the industry mentors who provide guidance during difficult times. Greg Beard, known as "Beard Man" in the pool community, shares profound insights from his decades of experience, including some of the most sobering lessons about pool safety.

Beard recounts a devastating experience early in his career that forever changed his perspective on pool safety and the responsibility pool professionals carry. His story serves as a powerful reminder that the work pool pros do extends far beyond water chemistry and equipment maintenance—it's about protecting lives and families.

For the last time, I told him it's not probably wise to have basketball being thrown towards the pool. And unfortunately, two years after I got in this business, lost a child to a ground... I'll never forget it was in Valley right up along the 405 freeway. And I was running about a half an hour late. When I got there, there was probably seven fire trucks, about 18 squad cars, a couple of paramedics and an ambulance.

— Greg Beard, Pool Industry Mentor

Beyond safety concerns, Beard emphasizes the critical importance of proper electrical work around pools. He's passionate about educating pool professionals on bonding and grounding, sharing knowledge that could literally save lives. His willingness to teach complex electrical work over the phone demonstrates the mentorship spirit that makes the pool industry special.

I literally taught Damien how to wire a complete panel. So I'm in this county over the phone. He was in Blythe. And you could see him shaking through the phone. He was like, sure, I'm not going to get shocked. Sure, I'm not going to get shocked. Damien, I'm not going to let anything happen to you, buddy. Just listen to what I'm saying to you and I will walk you through this.

— Greg Beard, Pool Industry Mentor

The 2025 Mentor of the Year Award: Celebrating Industry Excellence

The episode provides insight into the rigorous selection process for the 2025 Talking Pools Podcast Swimming Pool Industry Mentor of the Year Award. This isn't your typical industry recognition—it's a comprehensive evaluation of real mentorship impact.

The selection process demonstrates remarkable integrity. Nominees couldn't self-nominate; they had to be nominated by mentees whose careers they helped shape. From 67 nominees, a transparent scoring system evaluated each candidate on mentorship impact, mentee success, industry contributions, community engagement, and educational presence.

Importantly, all identifying information was removed during evaluation. Judges looked only at contributions and outcomes, not reputations or company affiliations. This anonymous process ensures the award recognizes substance over status, impact over influence.

The winner will receive a custom-made championship belt created by Wildcat Belts, the same company trusted by WWE and UFC. This isn't a plastic trophy—it's a tangible representation of the respect and recognition these mentors deserve for their dedication to advancing the pool industry.

Building Resilience in Uncertain Times

Whether facing government shutdowns, industry challenges, or daily operational hurdles, the pool service industry's strength lies in its people. The mentors featured in this episode represent the best of what the pool community offers: knowledge sharing, safety consciousness, and unwavering commitment to excellence.

Greg Beard's journey from a seven-year-old seeking work to a respected industry mentor illustrates the opportunities available in the pool industry for those willing to learn and grow. His story of working in a transmission shop as a child, then transitioning to pools, shows how diverse backgrounds can contribute to industry expertise.

At seven years old, I had already started kind of. My mom was always one of those women's as a single man. You wanted it. You went out and earned her. And if you wanted to go buy a bike or you wanted to go buy a candy bar, you had to have your own money to go get that.

— Greg Beard, Pool Industry Mentor

This work ethic and dedication to learning characterizes the best pool professionals. During uncertain times like government shutdowns, these qualities become even more valuable as businesses must adapt quickly and maintain service standards despite external pressures.

The pool industry continues to navigate challenges including labor shortages, rising costs, and changing demographics. In this environment, mentors aren't a luxury—they're essential for industry sustainability and growth. They provide the knowledge transfer, safety awareness, and professional development that keeps the industry strong.

As pool service professionals face the indirect effects of government shutdowns and other economic uncertainties, the lessons from industry mentors become invaluable. Their emphasis on safety, proper procedures, customer communication, and business resilience provides the foundation for weathering any storm. The 2025 Mentor of the Year Award celebrates these contributions while inspiring the next generation of pool professionals to carry forward this tradition of excellence and mentorship.

Episode Chapters

• 00:00 Introduction and Government Shutdown Overview
• 05:30 SBA Loans and Federal Contract Impacts
• 12:15 Regional Variations and Customer Effects
• 18:45 Business Strategies During Uncertainty
• 25:20 Greg Beard's Safety and Mentorship Stories
• 35:10 2025 Mentor of the Year Award Process
• 42:30 Industry Resilience and Future Outlook