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Tim Bolden: Navy Discipline, Pool Butler Growth, and Gen Z’s Take on Work-Life Balance

Talking Pools Podcast October 3, 2025 31 min
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31 min · Talking Pools Podcast
0:00 31 min

Key Takeaways

  • Tim's experience in the Navy shaped his leadership style.
  • White glove service is about enhancing customer experience.
  • Career paths in the pool industry can be lucrative.
  • Acquiring a business during a pandemic was challenging but rewarding.
  • Work-life balance is crucial for employee satisfaction.
  • Mentorship plays a vital role in professional growth.
  • Overcoming setbacks is part of the entrepreneurial journey.
  • Generational differences impact work expectations.

Episode Summary

In this episode of the Talking Pools podcast, Rudy Stankowitz interviews Tim Bolden of the Pool Butler. They discuss Tim's journey from the Navy to leading a successful pool service company, the importance of mentorship, and the challenges of running a business during a pandemic. Tim shares insights on leadership, work-life balance, and the evolving pool industry, emphasizing the need for innovation and customer service. The conversation highlights the significance of teamwork, the value of networking, and the importance of creating career paths for employees in the pool service sector.

Episode Chapters

  • 00:00 Introduction and Fantasy Football Rivalry
  • 02:05 Military Influence on Leadership
  • 06:25 White Glove Service in Pool Maintenance
  • 07:13 Career Path in the Pool Industry
  • 08:05 Acquisition and Business Growth
  • 09:09 Navigating Challenges During a Pandemic
  • 10:52 Work-Life Balance in the Pool Industry
  • 11:32 Leadership Philosophy and Team Dynamics
  • 16:15 Problem Solving in Pool Maintenance
  • 17:11 Vision for the Pool Butler
  • 17:39 Innovations in Pool Technology
  • 18:29 Mentorship and Passing Knowledge
  • 19:42 Overcoming Setbacks in Business
  • 21:10 Challenges for Entrepreneurs in the Pool Industry
  • 22:07 Generational Differences in Work Ethic
  • 23:26 Seeking Veterans in the Workforce
  • 24:21 Future Aspirations for the Pool Butler
  • 26:13 Industry Growth and Competition
  • 26:50 Networking and Mentorship in the Industry
  • 28:21 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

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