Scaling UP! H2O

"Learning how to learn is essential. "- Steve Russell In this week's episode of the Scaling UP! H2O Podcast, we're excited to share a deep dive into the complex world of carbon capture and water treatment with Steve Russell, Senior Process Engineer at Kiewit. Host Trace Blackmore and Steve explore the challenges of treating wastewater in carbon capture facilities, including the need for innovative approaches to meet environmental and operational standards. Navigating Carbon Capture: A Process Engineer's Perspective Carbon capture is a hot topic in today's industrial landscape, and Steve's expertise provides critical insights for water professionals. As Steve explains, "Carbon capture isn't just about removing CO₂—it's about managing the water and wastewater byproducts effectively." Steve's work with Kiewit involves finding solutions to treat the various wastewater streams generated during the carbon capture process. His experience illustrates the importance of understanding each facility's unique needs and tailoring water treatment strategies accordingly. Key Insights from Steve's Work: Understanding Wastewater Composition: Each facility produces different wastewater streams, largely dependent on fuel type and system design. Working Across Teams: Effective carbon capture requires collaboration between water treatment engineers, mechanical engineers, and project managers. Navigating Resource Limitations: Steve shares how he adapts his knowledge to treat complex wastewater streams when resources and data are limited. Flexibility and Teamwork Throughout his career, Steve has learned that flexibility and teamwork are crucial in tackling complex projects. Working closely with teams across various disciplines allows Steve to develop comprehensive solutions tailored to each project's specific requirements. Top Takeaways: Be Prepared to Adapt: Each project brings its own set of challenges, from wastewater quality variations to resource limitations. Understand the Full System: Gaining a broader understanding of the carbon capture process can help anticipate potential issues and refine water treatment strategies. Leverage Internal and External Knowledge: Steve emphasizes the value of tapping into team expertise and utilizing available resources for innovative solutions. Building a Career in Water Treatment Field With over two decades in water treatment, Steve shares his career advice for those just starting out or looking to advance. "Learning how to learn is essential," he reflects. Steve encourages water professionals to build a foundation of flexibility and continuous learning, as the industry constantly evolves with new technologies and environmental demands. Steve's Advice for Water Professionals: Be Flexible and Organized: Expect the unexpected and keep a well-organized knowledge base to quickly adapt to project needs. Build a Support Network: Collaboration and open dialogue with colleagues can accelerate problem-solving and professional growth. Focus on Continuous Learning: Water professionals should embrace learning opportunities within and beyond their primary field. Final Thoughts: Flexibility and Continuous Learning Steve's experience reminds us that flexibility and a commitment to learning how to learn are essential in water treatment. Each project is unique and staying adaptable and open to new knowledge is key to navigating complex industry challenges successfully. By embracing continuous learning, we drive impactful solutions for sustainability in our field. Tune in Today! Listen to this enlightening conversation by playing the episode above or visiting ScalingUpH2O.com/396 to tune in. Gain insights that will help you navigate your own water treatment challenges and expand your expertise in sustainability. Stay engaged, keep learning, and continue scaling up your knowledge! Timestamps 01:31 - Trace Blackmore shares his Thanksgiving reflection, Small Business Saturday, and Giving Tuesday 06:44 - Upcoming Events for Water Treatment Professionals 10:22 – Interview with Steve Russell, Senior Process Engineer from Kiewit about carbon capture technology and its implications for water and wastewater treatment. 51:05 - Drop by Drop with James McDonald Quotes "Carbon capture isn't just about removing CO₂—it's about managing the water and wastewater byproducts effectively." "Each carbon capture facility is unique, and there's no cookie-cutter approach." Connect with Steve Russell Phone: 913.689.4533 Email: [email protected] Website: https://www.kiewit.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/steve-russell-2b0a7960/ Read or Download Steve Russell's Press Release HERE Guest Resources Mentioned IWC (International Water Conference) Carbon Capture Water Requirements and Wastewater Treatment by Steve Russell and Eric Eisenbarth John Quincy Adam: Militant Spirit by James Traub Polk: The Man Who Transformed the Presidency and America by Walter R. Bornerman Grant by Ron Chernow Coolidge by Amity Shlaes An Americ

Here we go! We have the privilege of collaborating with our lab partner Bob Cunningham, of Arthur Freedman Associates, a true water industry expert whose journey flows through five decades of dedication, transformation, and insight. Starting his own company 35 years ago, Bob has navigated the currents of change in the field, sharing the lessons that come from a lifetime of experience. For those new to the water industry, Bob's story will inspire you to write your own chapters with integrity and resilience; for seasoned professionals, it's a reminder of the profound impact a lifelong commitment to this work can make. What Was Your Career Journey Like? Reflecting on the story of his career, Bob described a path full of purpose and momentum, driven by a passion for water treatment and a vision for what it could become. "Stand back, and here we go!" he recalled, capturing the excitement of building his career. Founding his own company was a wish come true, powered by the "dream team" he assembled to carry it forward. Decades later, Bob's journey is a testament to the possibilities that await those who dedicate themselves to the water treatment profession. The Good and the Bad Changes Over the Years With years of experience flowing behind him, Bob has observed major shifts in the water industry. He identified two of the most positive changes he's seen: Industry Diversification: With more people setting up their own companies, the wave of new businesses has strengthened the industry and fostered innovation. Advancements in Research: Today's resources—from molecules to biocides and surfactants—have expanded far beyond what was available in the past, equipping professionals with powerful tools to improve water systems. Still, Bob also pointed out challenges, notably the drive for "greener" policies that, while well-intentioned, sometimes lack the scrutiny needed to ensure they're effective and sustainable. Advice for New Water Professionals Bob shared valuable advice for those just beginning their own journey: "Keep it straight. Keep it ethical. Don't stretch it." In a field as important as water treatment, integrity flows through every successful career. Bob also warns against trying to gain business by cutting prices, as it ultimately backfires. Instead, he encourages presenting quality, honest solutions as the key to long-term success and respect in the field. What is the Best Way to Get Ahead in This Industry? When it comes to advancing in water treatment, Bob suggests taking a page from those who've already made a mark. "Watch the successful people in the industry. Keep an eye on those folks. Then try to incorporate what they are doing into your own career as you grow." He also emphasized the importance of broad, in-depth knowledge: "You've got to know every aspect of this business. So, study." From mechanical and microbiological aspects to chemistry, Bob's advice highlights the depth and commitment it takes to ride the waves of a successful career in water. How Did You Get Involved with the AWT? Bob's connection with the Association of Water Technologies (AWT) began as a way to network with others who share a passion for advancing the industry. Over the years, his work with AWT has strengthened his dedication to education, standards, and mentorship within the field. Bob's Go-To References Navigating the water industry requires solid references, and Bob's approach has always been to keep his library of resources close at hand. When faced with challenges, he turns to trusted materials that help him troubleshoot and understand the complex systems in his work. For Bob, maintaining this holistic knowledge is essential to staying effective and adaptive in an ever-evolving industry. Scale UP! Your Water Career Tune into this episode for a front-row view of Bob's life in water—a story of purpose, change, and professional wisdom. May it inspire you to embrace your own journey in water, staying curious and informed as you flow from one chapter to the next. Timestamps 01:00 - Trace Blackmore wants to remind you that the 12 Week Year is a powerful tool to help you maximize these final weeks of the year and achieve your goals for 2024. Let's finish strong! 03:00 - Upcoming Events for Water Treatment Professionals 10:40 - Interview with Bob Cunningham 01:04:15 - Drop by Drop with James McDonald Connect with Bob Cunningham Phone: +1 530 604 3449 Email: [email protected] Website: https://arthurfreedmanassociates.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robert-cunningham-635a7748/ Resources Mentioned Audible (free month with this link) AWT (Association of Water Technologies) The 12 Week Year: Get More Done in 12 Weeks than Others Do in 12 Months by Brian P. Moran The Rising Tide Mastermind Scaling UP! H2O Academy video courses Submit a Show Idea Drop By Drop with James In today's episode, I want you to picture yourself looking at the water level in the basin of a cooling tower. You may want to press fast forward on your ima

By highlighting cost savings, clients can see how efficient water treatment impacts their bottom line. Sustainability isn't just a trendy term—it's about implementing practical practices that protect our planet for current and future generations. By adopting sustainable strategies, we can conserve resources, cut costs, and create lasting benefits for both the environment and our client's businesses. In our latest episode of the Scaling UP! H2O Podcast, we had the privilege of speaking with James Courtney, CWT, LEED AP of CSC Technologies an advocate for water sustainability, who shared actionable insights on how water professionals can effectively embrace sustainability while adding value to their clients. Meet James Courtney: A Champion for Sustainability In our enlightening conversation, James shared his journey in the water industry and emphasized the vital role that water professionals play in promoting sustainability. He stated, "We help our customers by saving them money on water, electricity, and fuel." This highlights how our work not only benefits the environment but also leads to significant financial savings for our clients. Sustainability: More Than Just a Buzzword Sustainability means optimizing our resources. As James noted, "We operate in this space where we are directly responsible for the sustainability of our customers." Water treaters have a unique opportunity to minimize their clients' carbon footprints while improving efficiency. Whether it's running boilers without scale, optimizing cooling towers, or maximizing cycles of conductivity, every action contributes to a greener future. James also cautioned against greenwashing, reminding us that not all practices labeled as "green" deliver real benefits. We must be vigilant and ensure that our sustainability efforts Educating and Empowering Clients Understanding water and energy usage is essential for effective water management. James encourages water professionals to educate their clients about their consumption patterns. "Clients often don't realize that overusing chemicals or wasting water is a problem," he explained. By illustrating the cost savings—like reducing their electricity bills or fuel costs—clients can connect the dots between efficient water treatment and their bottom line. Harnessing Data One of James's most compelling stories was about using smart meters to identify inefficiencies. He shared, "Meters give you information; information gives you the opportunity to find solutions to problems you didn't even know you had." In one instance, a client's building was using half a million gallons of water due to a blocked condensate receiver. The installation of a meter enabled the team to identify the issue and prevent unnecessary water loss, ultimately leading to significant cost savings for the client. James's team also tackled a fascinating case with two identical LEED Platinum buildings. Even though they were built exactly the same, one consumed significantly more power. By analyzing minute-by-minute energy data, they pinpointed the problem, leading to solutions that not only enhanced efficiency but also inspired other buildings in the community to adopt similar practices. The Impact of Visibility James highlighted an intriguing study involving a housing development where identical homes were built. In half of these homes, energy meters were placed indoors, allowing residents to see their energy usage, while the other half had meters located outdoors. The results were striking: "The houses with visible indoor meters used less energy simply because people could see it," James explained. Residents began to turn energy monitoring into a game, challenging themselves to reduce their consumption. This simple shift towards visibility in daily energy use not only heightened awareness among residents but also nurtured a culture of energy-saving habits. As James aptly put it, "What gets measured gets managed." Engaging clients in enjoyable and measurable ways can significantly drive sustainability efforts. Final Thoughts James's insights remind us of the significant role water professionals play in fostering a sustainable future. By leveraging data and educating our clients, we can create meaningful change that benefits both our communities and the environment. Together, let's continue to explore the importance of sustainability practices that protect our generation and the ones to come. Thank you for being part of the Scaling UP! H2O community. Together, let's continue to educate ourselves and each other on the importance of sustainability practices that benefit both our generation and those to come. Stay curious, stay informed, and keep scaling up your knowledge! Timestamps 01:28 - Trace Blackmore shares what he is thankful for, and extends gratitude to the listeners and to AWT for the 2024 Innovation Award, and shares his family's Thanksgiving traditions 15:18 - Interview with James Courtney, CWT 58:00 - Upcoming Events for Water Trea

We're focusing on High Recovery Reverse Osmosis (HRRO) with insights from Ken Robinson, Director of North America Application & Sales at Avista Technologies. With over 40 years of experience in membrane technology, Ken sheds light on how HRRO is transforming water treatment and tackling industry challenges. Here are the key highlights from our conversation. What is Reverse Osmosis (RO)? Ken describes reverse osmosis as a method for rejecting dissolved minerals and macro-organics from water. He stated, "Today's systems, most of them are using what they call a thin film composite membrane, which are categorized into seawater, brackish, and low-energy membranes, along with an offshoot called nanofiltration." These systems achieve remarkable efficiency, with a rejection rate of around 99%, leaving only a minimal amount of dissolved minerals in the purified water. What is High Recovery Reverse Osmosis (HRRO)? HRRO is designed to maximize water recovery and minimize waste, making it a game-changer for water treatment. According to Ken, "40 years ago, recovery limitations were dictated by the chemistries. Today, advances in antiscalant technology allow for much higher recovery rates." This technology takes the concentrate from conventional RO systems and processes it further, increasing efficiency and sustainability. Industries Leading the Way Initially adopted in industrial settings, HRRO is now gaining traction in sectors like municipal water treatment, food and beverage production, and power generation. Ken emphasized that "the growing focus on sustainability and regulatory compliance is driving broader adoption of HRRO systems." Ensuring Successful Operations To ensure HRRO systems function optimally, it's crucial to define feedwater quality parameters and anticipate variability. Ken stressed the importance of training operators, noting, "There always seems to be a disconnect between applications and salespeople developing ideas. Misunderstandings arise when people don't understand the behavior of water as it concentrates." To effectively tackle any challenges that arise, Ken recommends the following steps for operators: Define Feedwater Quality Parameters: Establish clear benchmarks for feedwater quality, including turbidity, pH, total dissolved solids (TDS), and any specific contaminants. This baseline will help identify any deviations that may affect system performance. Implement Regular Monitoring: Operators should capture data at regular intervals. This includes monitoring system pressures, flow rates, and recovery rates. Keeping an eye on these metrics will allow operators to identify trends and detect any anomalies early on. Normalize Collected Data: Regularly normalize the collected data to account for variations in operating conditions. By adjusting the data for factors such as temperature or seasonal changes, operators can gain clearer insights into system performance and efficiency. Train Operators on Water Behavior: Provide comprehensive training for operators that focuses on understanding how water behaves during the concentration process. As Ken pointed out, "water is very predictable in how it behaves," so operators need to recognize the symptoms of potential issues and understand their causes. Foster Open Communication: Encourage collaboration among team members, especially between operators and technical support staff. Ken highlighted that insights often emerge from frontline staff who have firsthand experience with system operations. Conduct Root Cause Analysis: When problems arise, implement a structured approach to root cause analysis. This should involve gathering all relevant data, discussing operational practices, and reviewing system design. Engaging the team in this process can uncover issues that might be overlooked by individuals working in isolation. Adapt and Adjust: Finally, remain flexible and ready to adapt operational strategies based on the data insights and root cause analysis findings. By following these steps, operators can optimize HRRO system performance, improve efficiency, and ultimately reduce waste. Signs of a Successful Cleaning Ken Robinson shared valuable insights into the cleaning process, emphasizing the role of pre-treatment: "Pre-treatment is king in dictating the frequency," he said, noting that surface water applications tend to require more frequent cleaning than well water systems. Ensuring that the cleaning process has been successful is key to maintaining high efficiency in HRRO systems. According to Ken, operators should check a few critical parameters post-cleaning: Performance Recovery: A successful cleaning will restore the system's flow rates and pressures to their baseline levels. Operators should monitor permeate flow, pressure differentials, and salt rejection rates to confirm the system is operating efficiently after cleaning. Normalized Data Comparison: Ken advised that operators should regularly normalize the system's data, both before and afte

"Your most limiting factor is yourself." - Tessa Nge In this week's episode of the Scaling UP! H2O Podcast, we're thrilled to bring you an empowering conversation between host Trace Blackmore and two leaders in the water treatment industry— Tammy Faber, Sales Director, and Tessa Nge, Service Quality Supervisor at HOH Water Technology. Together, they explore how diversity fuels success, the importance of overcoming Imposter Syndrome, and how you can take meaningful steps to give back to our industry. Diversity Drives Success: The Data Speaks Diversity isn't just about creating fair workplaces—it's a proven driver of business success. Tammy shared powerful insights from a study titled "Diversity Drives Sales Success: The Link Between Successful Sales Teams And Diversity, Equity, And Inclusion," commissioned by LinkedIn. This data shows that teams with strong diversity practices see: 6% higher customer satisfaction 12% higher sales 28% higher conversion rates 3% higher sales forecasts "Diversity drives sales," Tammy stated. It's clear that fostering diverse teams doesn't just boost morale—it boosts the bottom line. Diverse teams approach challenges from different angles, offering innovative solutions that serve a wider range of customers. When organizations embrace diversity, they unlock untapped potential for growth. Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: A Battle We All Face Imposter Syndrome is a challenge many of us encounter, no matter our level of expertise. Tessa opened up about this, emphasizing "Imposter Syndrome is something everyone struggles with. Overcoming it is hard and takes intentional practice." It's not about eliminating self-doubt overnight but about taking deliberate steps to recognize and overcome it. Tessa and Tammy's top tips for overcoming self-doubt: Acknowledge your accomplishments. Take time to celebrate your achievements, no matter how small. This can shift your mindset and reinforce your value. Step out of your comfort zone. Growth comes from challenging yourself. As Tessa mentioned, "You won't grow unless you're willing to be uncomfortable." Seek feedback. Tammy also highlighted the importance of feedback, saying, "I always start by asking if it's a good time to provide feedback. This shows respect and creates a space for open dialogue." "Your most limiting factor is yourself," Tessa wisely added. By recognizing that our self-doubt often holds us back, we can take intentional steps toward building confidence. Building a Culture of Support Creating a culture of support is vital for both personal and professional growth. Tammy and Tessa also discussed the vital role of a positive workplace culture in fostering growth and confidence. According to Tammy, "Intentionality is key to defining your culture. It should flow through every aspect of your organization." She emphasized that a strong culture empowers employees to thrive and feel supported. Tessa echoed this sentiment, noting that a culture of trust and accountability allows individuals to flourish. "When you remove micromanagement and create a supportive environment, employees can focus on their growth," she said. By promoting mentorship, offering training opportunities, and encouraging open dialogue about the challenges we encounter, we can cultivate a healthy work culture that benefits everyone. Taking Action: Give Back to the Water Treatment Community This week, we challenge you to give back to the industry that's given so much to you. Whether it's mentoring a young professional, volunteering with a local organization, or visiting a school to inspire students about careers in STEAM, now is the time to make an impact. As Tammy passionately said, "We need people that love this industry, that have a heart to help others and to grow others. There is no amount of expertise needed. The only thing you need is a willing heart and time." By giving back, you not only help others but also strengthen the community that has supported your own journey. Final Thoughts: Know Your Worth We wrapped up this inspiring conversation with a powerful reminder from Tammy: "Know your worth. Take time to identify your limiting beliefs and pull them out by the roots. You are unique, and your talents are valuable." Overcoming Imposter Syndrome and stepping into your full potential requires recognizing your own value. No matter where you are in your career, these lessons—embracing diversity, overcoming self-doubt, and fostering a culture of support—are essential for growth. Join the Conversation Listen to this eye-opening conversation in our latest episode with the player above, or visit ScalingUpH2O.com/392 to tune in. Together, we can foster a more inclusive, supportive, and growth-driven environment in the water treatment industry. Stay curious, stay informed, and keep scaling up your knowledge! Timestamps 01:00 - Trace Blackmore shares FREE resources for water professionals on the Scaling UP! H2O website and wishes everyone a happy late Halloween 12:30 - Inter

We continue our in-depth conversation with Tom Tinney, Product Specialist and equipment guru at AquaPhoenix Scientific diving deeper into the technical aspects of multimeter troubleshooting. This episode is packed with practical tips designed to help you navigate the often-confusing world of diagnostics and electrical troubleshooting. Whether you're a seasoned professional or just getting started, Tom's hands-on advice will guide you through common troubleshooting challenges so you can improve your accuracy and efficiency in the field. Missed Part 1? No worries! You can catch up on Episode 390 to get the foundation before diving into this advanced discussion. How Can You Avoid Fake Signals? Ever wonder why you're getting water meter readings when the system isn't running? Tom breaks it down. If low-voltage sensor wires run too close to high-voltage AC wires, electrical interference can mimic a water meter signal, leading to fake readings. Pro tip: Keep the wires separated by at least 12 inches, and if they must cross, do so at a 90-degree angle. "Running them through the same conduit isn't just a bad idea; it's a code violation," Tom advises. The Troubleshooting Tool, You Didn't Know You Needed: A Paperclip That's right—Tom channels his inner MacGyver with this simple tool. "When I troubleshoot, I always bring paper clips," he shares. They're perfect for quick fixes, especially when dealing with short circuits or stripped wires. How Long Can a Conduit Run Be on a Water Meter? Tom recommends keeping conduit runs short and efficient: ● Water meters: up to 1,000 feet ● Conductivity sensors: 200 feet max ● Amplified pH sensors: up to 1,000 feet ● Non-amplified pH sensors: Stick to 20 feet or less for optimal performance. Pro Tip: Save Your Multimeter's Battery Life You don't need to keep your meter on "Resistance" all the time. Switching it to Volts AC, Volts DC, or simply turning it off can extend your battery life significantly. Troubleshooting with the Experts: Top 4 Calls Tom Tinney shares the top troubleshooting calls he receives: The 1575 Controller Mystery ● Issue: Controller reset every time the relay activated. ● Fix: A simple switch adjustment from 230V to 115V solved the issue. The Miswired Outlet ● Problem: Controller shutting off when a relay turned on. ● Fix: Rewriting the outlet, which had reversed hot and neutral wires. Destroyed Chlorine Sensor ● Issue: Excessive flow and pressure destroyed the sensor. ● Lesson: Always stick to the manufacturer's guidelines and communicate them clearly to plumbers and electricians. Competing Controllers Failing ● Issue: Controllers from different manufacturers failing simultaneously. ● Fix: The culprit was a faulty sensor and excessive aeration. Who Should Be Using Remote Communications? While it may seem logical to apply remote communications to your highest-value accounts, Tom suggests starting with smaller ones. Remote communication technology can save time and money by allowing you to troubleshoot remotely, and the investment often pays off with just one saved trip a year. Troubleshooting Leaks in an MPT Thread When it comes to troubleshooting leaks in an MPT Thread, maintenance is key. First, make sure you clean your sensors at least once a season, or even more frequently, similar to how you maintain a cooling tower. When replacing the boiler sensor in an MPT Thread (an angled thread going into an angled pipe), don't screw it in until it "clicks"—this can cause leaks. Instead, tighten the sensor by hand. Once it's snug, use a wrench to turn it only ½ to ¾ of a turn more. If you've already got a leak, chances are you've overtightened it. Don't try to fix a leak by cranking it tighter—at that point, you've already gone too far. The Blackmore Method This formula answers the age-old question: How do I know what to set my biocide pre-bleed on? If you know the system volume, incoming makeup water conductivity, and how much you evaporate every minute, this equation will tell you exactly what to set your pre-bleed to: A Fun Fact: The Cooling Tower Scene in Die Hard Did you know? The blue box with the two dials on the wall in the Die-Hard cooling tower scene was one of Tom's old controllers! Tom even tracked down the Fox Studios building manager and discovered that it was there from 1988 through 2012. How cool is that? Timestamps 02:07 - Trace Blackmore reminds you about our free Events for Water Treatment Professionals page on our website. It's a comprehensive list of all the events our team is aware of for water professionals to attend in the USA and around the world. Don't wait, scale up your knowledge today by attending a conference in the upcoming months. 03:15 - The Hang is happening on November 14, 2024: a free zoom networking event for water professionals 05:40 - Tom Tinney, Product Specialist and equipment guru at AquaPhoenix Scientific continues his talk on Troubleshooting Multimeters 01:04:35 - Drop by Drop with James McDonald Connect with Tom Tinney Pho

In our latest episode, we had the pleasure of welcoming back Tom Tinney, Product Specialist and equipment guru at AquaPhoenix Scientific. Tom shared invaluable insights into troubleshooting multimeters—an essential tool every water professional should have on hand during site visits. Here are some key takeaways from our discussion that you won't want to miss! Why You Need a Multimeter: An Essential Tool for Your Kit Tom emphasized the importance of carrying a multimeter. "This is the tool that checks the controller to ensure you're delivering your products and services on site while you're not there. If you need to check its health or troubleshoot, you need a multimeter." Even a $12 model will suffice, so you won't stress about leaving it behind. This handy device can save you time and reduce anxiety, especially if it's misplaced. Troubleshooting Power Issues: More Than Just Fuses A common scenario Tom encounters is technicians reporting that their controller is powered on but has no output. While it may seem like a blown fuse isn't the issue, controllers often have separate fuses for the relays. With your multimeter, you can quickly check for voltage on either side of the fuse. If one side shows voltage and the other doesn't, it indicates a blown fuse. Tom's golden rule for troubleshooting fuses? Always bring three with you because "troubleshooting with fuses always takes three fuses, no matter what." After replacing a blown fuse, check if the controller powers up correctly or if the issue lies with the connected equipment. Be Prepared: Stock Your Toolbox Tom recommends keeping spare fuses in the exact size you need in your toolbox. With fewer Radio Shacks around, it's essential to think ahead and replenish your supply. By having a fuse kit, you can avoid multiple service calls, saving both time and effort. When your fuse count dips below three, make sure to restock! The Art of Checking Fuses: Don't Be Deceived! Sometimes, a wire may appear intact. To check for functionality, Tom suggests using the resistance setting on your multimeter. This method can confirm whether the fuse is operational. Listen for the reliable beep, indicating that current is flowing correctly. When checking fuses, ensure you're measuring both sides for voltage. If it's absent, the fuse is blown. To confirm functionality, you can also switch your multimeter to resistance mode. If it beeps when touching the fuse leads, it's still conducting properly; if not, the fuse is blown. Checking Conductivity Sensors Tom provided insights on verifying whether a conductivity sensor is functioning correctly. By measuring the AC voltage at the sensor tips, you can determine if it's working as intended. Remember, maintaining clean sensor tips is crucial for accurate readings—avoid using sandpaper Instead, use a loose-bristle steel brush to remove any buildup. Conductivity Sensors Gone Bad Many users may regret learning how easily a multimeter can troubleshoot issues with conductivity sensors. Tom noted that when sensors are returned for warranty claims, they're often covered with white residue but still work perfectly fine 99% of the time after cleaning. If you want to learn how to clean them properly, he's more than willing to share his expertise. The Tom Tinney Approved Method for Cleaning a Conductivity Probe Instead of sanding the carbon tip of a conductivity sensor, Tom recommends using a loose-bristle steel brush. This method effectively removes crusty buildup without damaging the sensor. After brushing, soak it in a 10% sulfuric acid, 1% murratic, or if you have time, you can even use a CLR solution to dissolve any remaining scale. Rinse thoroughly, then use isopropyl alcohol to eliminate any oily residues. "After you put it back in your system, you will be majorly impressed with the operation of that sensor!" shares Tom. Understanding the Difference: Carbon Tips vs. Toroidal Probes When comparing carbon tips to toroidal probes, it's crucial to understand their design and functionality differences. Carbon Tips: Carbon tips are made from powdered carbon compressed under high pressure in a mold, creating a porous structure that allows water to flow through. When water pressure exceeds 140 PSI, it passes through the carbon like a sieve, enabling it to travel up the rod and into the sensor via a wire sheath. This design ensures optimal performance but limits the operational pressure to 140 PSI. Toroidal Probes: In contrast, toroidal probes operate differently. They use two wire coils as transformers, generating a small alternating current signal without direct contact with the water. The water's conductivity affects the signal strength between the coils. As a result, these sensors require less frequent cleaning since they are less prone to fouling compared to carbon tips. Additionally, toroidal sensors excel in high-salinity environments, making them suitable for applications involving seawater or other salty waters. Not so salty? Then users typi

Happy Careers Friday, Scaling UP! Nation! As we wrap up Industrial Water Week 2024, we want to thank you for celebrating with us. This week, we dove deep into Pretreatment, Boilers, Cooling, Wastewater, and now Careers. You can revisit all these episodes by visiting our Industrial Water Week Resources Page. Next Friday, we'll be back to our regular schedule, delivering fresh insights to help you scale up your water knowledge. Thank Someone Who Shaped Your Career Your success is built on the shoulders of those who helped you along the way. Today, take a moment to write a handwritten card to someone who impacted your career. It's amazing how a simple note of gratitude can brighten someone's day and create lasting bonds. Connect with the Scaling UP! Community Our podcast has built a global network of water professionals, and we're honored to be part of your journey. Whether you're driving from account to account or catching up on episodes, remember—you're not alone. The community we've built is here to support your growth, and so are our free online resources. Show Us How You Celebrate! Share your celebration! Post pictures of you with your team, mentor, client, or even your Industrial Water Week cake. Let's flood social media with photos using #IndustrialWaterWeek2024 and #IWW24 to show the world why we love this industry! Career Advice from Water Industry Leaders Dragan Savić FREng encourages you to jump into the water industry by simply asking professionals about their experiences. Don't wait—start that conversation today! Kalpna Solanki highlights the purpose and global reach of becoming an environmental operator: "What could be more purposeful than providing safe drinking water and wastewater management?" Blaine Nagao shares how mentorship launched his career in water treatment. Stay visible with technology, build client relationships, and keep sharing what makes this field great Join a Mastermind of Water Leaders Want to elevate your career even further? The Rising Tide Mastermind is your chance to connect with like-minded professionals, tackle challenges together, and grow your career. With four spots available, now's the time to join! Apply at www.ScalingUpH2O.com/Mastermind and be part of a supportive community that wants to see you succeed. Thank you for making Industrial Water Week 2024 unforgettable! Timestamps 0:01 - Welcome to Careers Friday! Trace Blackmore shares three key tasks as we conclude this spectacular week. 10:45 - Dragan Savić FREng, the CEO of and Professor of Hydroinformatics at the KWR Water Research Institute 13:00 - Kalpna Solanki, Board Trustee of the Water Environment Federation (WEF) 14:09 - Blaine Nagao, Senior Director of Smart Release Technology at Dober 19:30 - Detective H2O - The Case of Hard Diagnosis Connect with the Scaling UP! H2O Team Email Executive Producer Corrine Drury: [email protected] Corrine Drury Phone: 224-828-9514 LinkedIn: in/traceblackmore/ linkedin.com/in/corrinedrury Submit a show idea: Submit a Show Idea Connect with Blaine Nagao Phone: 817.913.8030 Email: [email protected] Website: www.dober.com LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/blaine-nagao-cwt-953822110/ linkedin.com/company/dober/ Connect with Dragan Savić FREng Email: [email protected] Website: www.kwrwater.nl/en/ LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/dragansavic/ www.linkedin.com/company/kwr-water-research-institute/ Connect with Kalpna Solanki Phone: 778.688.9196 Email: [email protected] Website: Water Environment Federation (WEF) LinkedIn: Kalpna Solanki, MBA Water Environment Federation (WEF) Links Mentioned Industrial Water Week Resources Page The Rising Tide Mastermind AWT Innovation Award, Scaling UP! H2O was the 2024 Recipient 367 Smart Solutions: How Solid Chemistry Can Transform Your Business 355 Backflow Prevention: Safeguarding Water Quality 356 Unlocking the Future: Collaborative Water Management 106 The One with the Agnostic Equipment Guy

Wastewater isn't fully appreciated until it's not working. Let's dive into Wastewater Thursday! This is the day we celebrate the unsung heroes—water treaters—who help reuse and recycle water, keeping our planet sustainable. Wastewater treatment isn't just about getting rid of contaminants; it's about turning something used into something reusable, ensuring that water doesn't go to waste. And believe it or not, this process is essential, even if it means sometimes working in environments that… Well, it doesn't always smell so great. Let me share a story. Years ago, I visited a turkey rendering plant with my dad, and I'll never forget how strong the smell was. My dad leaned over and said, "Son, that's what money smells like." But the real lesson came later when I walked into a new customer's office straight from the plant, not realizing just how much of that smell had followed me. They still bring it up whenever I visit, and it taught me to always be prepared—now I keep fresh clothes in my car for those, let's say, aromatic site visits. Today, we're diving into how to run a successful wastewater jar study—getting that perfect floc formation. So, grab your stirrers and notepads; we're going deep into the steps you need to get it right every time. And you're not going to want to miss a special message from our guest, Chris Drover from ZwitterCo, who's working on revolutionary membrane technology for wastewater treatment. Chris even did a live taste test of reclaimed industrial water—talk about dedication! His message? "Water is water." No matter where it comes from. Wastewater needs to be reused and recycled for our activities to be sustainable in the long run." So, let's celebrate how wastewater treatment makes our world more sustainable. Snap a photo of yourself and your favorite wastewater tool or system and tag it with #IWW24 and #IndustrialWaterWeek. Let's show the world what makes this day so important! Timestamps 0:01- Trace Blackmore shares his turkey rendering plant story 7:30 - How to properly run a wastewater jar test 17:57 - Our friend Christopher Drover, CTO and Co-Founder at Zwitter Co stops by to wish everyone a happy Wastewater Thursday 21:00 - Detective H2O - The Case of Seeing the Dead Connect with Christopher Drover Phone: +1 508 562 9916 Email: [email protected] Website: Zwitter Co LinkedIn: Christopher Drover Links Mentioned Industrial Water Week Resources Page 078 The One with The Waste Water Guy (Part 1) 079 The One with The Waste Water Guy (Part 2) 349 Defying Fouling Challenges: A New Frontier in Industrial Wastewater Solutions

It's Cooling Wednesday, and today we're spotlighting the essential systems that keep industrial processes and HVAC systems running smoothly—cooling towers, chillers, heat exchangers—and the dedicated professionals who keep them in top shape. We all know how crucial cooling towers are for removing heat from a building's process, but did you know there's more to the story? Cooling towers circulate water from a heat source, cooling it down by dropping it through the tower before returning it to the system. But what about fluid coolers and evaporative condensers? Fluid coolers use a tube bundle to keep inside, and outside water separate, while evaporative condensers use refrigerants like ammonia to tackle the heat. Today's special guest, Loraine Huchler, President of Martech Systems, joins us to share a crucial reminder: "Monitoring and managing biofilm will automatically decrease your risk of Legionella and Legionellosis infections—not just in cooling water, but even in building water." Learn how to keep your cooling systems safe from Legionella by visiting our free Legionella Resources page, where you can find past episodes, articles, and the latest legislation updates. Whether you're treating a cooling tower, chiller, or heat exchanger, snap a photo of your system today and post it using the tags #IWW24 and #IndustrialWaterWeek. Let's celebrate Cooling Wednesday together and keep the conversation flowing! Timestamps 0:01 - Trace Blackmore welcomes you to Cooling Wednesday, check out our free Legionella Resource Page and Industrial Water Week Page 8:50 - Our friend Loraine Huchler, P.E., CMC®, FIMC, President of Martech Systems stops by to wish everyone a happy Cooling Wednesday 11:30 Cooling terminology advice: not everything is a cooling tower 15:40 - Detective H2O - The Case of the Dye Job Connect with Loraine Huchler, P.E., CMC®, FIMC Phone: +1 757.442.5308 Email: [email protected] Website: www.martechsystems.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/loraine-huchler/ Links Mentioned Industrial Water Week Resources Page Check out our Legionella Resource Page, where you can find dozens of free Legionella articles, episodes, and documents to help you scale up your Legionella knowledge International Water Conference (IWC) 379 Into the Unknown: The Link Between Biofilm and Legionella 346 Revolutionizing Legionella Management: A 2024 Kickoff Special 328 Industrial Water Week 2023: Pretreatment Monday 327 Pinks and Blues – Cooling Towers, Part 1 138 The One That's All About Cooling Towers – Part 2 137 The One That's All About Cooling Towers, Part 1

We are equipment whisperers. Imagine this: You're at a conference, surrounded by industry experts, and someone raises their hand to ask, "What's the difference between a Water Tube Boiler and a Fire Tube Boiler?" Now, most of us would expect this to be common knowledge at a water conference, right? But here's the twist—the person asking wasn't a water professional. He was a curious customer, frustrated because the company servicing his boiler couldn't give him a clear answer. This is where we, as water professionals, can really shine. Our job isn't just to service equipment; it's to educate our customers. We need to explain how their systems work, identify issues, discuss the solutions we've implemented, and most importantly, show them the results. Because when customers understand, they trust. We are the "equipment whisperers," and our mission is heating transfer management. In boilers, everything has to work together perfectly for efficient heat transfer. But how do we prove that? And how do we share that information in a way our customers understand? Today's episode tackles the age-old question: What's the difference between a Water Tube Boiler and a Fire Tube Boiler? And for those of you working in the field, here's a challenge: Can you explain it easily to your customers? Water Tube Boilers circulate water through tubes heated externally by combustion gasses. These systems are typically larger, with higher efficiency, and can handle extreme pressures and temperatures. On the other hand, Fire Tube Boilers have hot gasses flowing through the tubes surrounded by water. They're simpler, more compact, and generally cheaper to install—perfect for smaller applications. But no matter what type of boiler your customer has, scale buildup is always the enemy. When scale forms inside a Water Tube Boiler, the consequences are severe. Fire Tube Boilers are a bit more forgiving, but the goal remains the same: Keep those heat transfer surfaces clean to generate steam with the least fuel possible. So, the next time your customer asks a question—no matter how simple it seems—take the time to explain. Prove the value of your service and remind them that you're there to help them maximize their system's efficiency. Tune in every day this week for a new episode of Scaling UP! H2O, and let's make this Industrial Water Week a celebration of the amazing work we do! Happy Industrial Water Week! Timestamps 0:01 - Trace Blackmore welcomes you to Boiler Tuesday 09:32 - What is the difference between a Fire Tube Boiler and a Water Tube Boiler? 17:09- Our friend Fred Shurtz, Owner and the President of Precision Chemical, Division of Browne Labs stops by to wish everyone a happy Boiler Tuesday 19:40 - Detective H2O - The Case of Being Picture Perfect (NEW release for 2024) Connect with Fred Shurtz Phone: +1 812 455 7378 Email: [email protected] Website: Precision Chemical Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fred-shurtz-7287b032/ Links Mentioned 369 Mastering New Business: A Sales Journey Water Cake Industrial Water Week Resources Page Submit a Show Idea

The wait is over! It's time to celebrate the best job in the world and each other during Industrial Water Week! As part of the Scaling UP! Nation, we want to see you in action – take a selfie in front of your favorite water softener or RO unit and tag it with #IWW24, #IndustrialWaterWeek, and #ScalingUpH2O. It can be lonely driving from account to account, but this week reminds us that we're all part of a global community of water professionals. Let's come together to celebrate the incredible work we do and shine a light on the countless opportunities in water. Today is Pretreatment Monday, and we're kicking things off with an episode packed with insights on water softener calculations, elution studies, and a special visit from Keith Karl, ICONX Chemicals, Inc. Equipment Division President, who's here to wish everyone a happy Pretreatment Monday! Tune in each day this week as we release a new episode highlighting the critical elements of industrial water treatment. Want to learn more about Industrial Water Week? Visit the free Resources dropdown at www.ScalingUpH2O.com to explore all things Pretreatment, Boilers, Cooling, Wastewater, and Careers in water. Have a show idea? Let us know! We're always looking for new ways to bring you the best educational content to help you scale up your water career. Happy Pretreatment Monday! Timestamps 0:01 - Trace Blackmore welcomes you to the Water Treaters podcast and the very first day of Industrial Water Week 2024 10:00 - Our friend Keith Karl, ICONX Chemicals, Inc. Equipment Division President stops by to wish everyone a happy Pretreatment Monday 11:15 - Additional water resources, water softener calculations, and elution studies 25:20 - Detective H2O - The Case of Normalization Connect with Keith Karl Phone: +1 732 715 1372 Email: [email protected] Website: http://www.iconxchemicals.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/keith-karl-4435a9249/ Links Mentioned Chloride Elution Study Procedure and Data Interpretation Industrial Water Week Resources Page Submit a Show Idea

Discover Breakthroughs in Sunflower Oil Wastewater Treatment: A Special Re-Air of Our Most Popular Episode from 2023 When it comes to oil wastewater treatment, the challenges can feel overwhelming. But what if there was a way to tackle these obstacles with cutting-edge solutions? In this special re-airing of our most popular episode from 2023, Swati Sharma, Ph.D. an expert at Water Engineering Inc. (WEI), walks us through her innovative research that's helping water treaters around the world. Her expertise is backed by groundbreaking research, including her thesis titled "How to Estimate the Best Treatment Conditions for Sunflower Oil Wastewater Using Advanced Electrooxidation Process", which she graciously shares with our global audience. Gain insights into electrooxidation processes and valuable advice for aspiring water treatment researchers. Even if you've heard this episode before, we promise you'll learn something new this time around. Dr. Sharma's expertise in electrooxidation processes and her passion for solving complex wastewater problems is sure to inspire and equip you to approach your next challenge with confidence. What makes treating sunflower oil wastewater so difficult? Sunflower oil wastewater is particularly challenging because it contains high levels of organic pollutants. Traditional methods often fall short, leaving treaters frustrated and looking for better solutions. But as Dr. Sharma shares, every wastewater is different, and each treatment process behaves uniquely depending on the specific characteristics. "I found that each wastewater was so different in its characteristics, that each of these treatments behaved completely differently. Electrocoagulation (EC) was really good with the canola oil, whereas I found that Electrooxidation (EO) was a better process for sugar beets, which are really high in organic loading." – Dr. Swati Sharma How does electrooxidation make a difference? Dr. Sharma explains that advanced processes like electrooxidation and electrocoagulation offer more precise control over treating specific types of wastewaters. Electrooxidation, for instance, can target and break down organic pollutants more effectively than conventional methods, making it a game-changer for sunflower oil wastewater. "Wastewater is like math, it's like a game. You have to understand it and enjoy doing it. It's a puzzle, you need to connect the dots to make a beautiful picture." – Dr. Swati Sharma What advice does Dr. Sharma have for aspiring researchers? Dr. Sharma's path to success wasn't without challenges. In the episode, she offers valuable insights into the importance of persistence and curiosity. Whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting out, her advice applies across the board. "Sometimes your hypothesis doesn't match your findings and it's hard. You dedicate so many hours of your life to your study and you are so passionate about this, and it's demotivating at times. But you have to learn what has failed and why it has failed. Find the reason behind your failure and it will lead to your success. That's what I believe in." – Dr. Swati Sharma What's the key to successful wastewater treatment? Understanding the specific characteristics of the wastewater you're dealing with is essential to finding the right solution. Dr. Sharma emphasizes that it's not just about adding chemicals but truly understanding the problem. "It's not about the addition of chemicals, it's about understanding the characteristics of your wastewater. pH, temperature, composition, where is it coming from and where is it going—all of these matters matter. Understanding how this work is important." – Dr. Swati Sharma Whether you're hearing this episode for the first time or revisiting it, Dr. Sharma's research will leave you better equipped to tackle your next wastewater challenge with new insights and practical takeaways. Timestamps 01:00 - Trace Blackmore reminds you that next week there will be a new episode heard every day as we celebrate all 5 days of Industrial Water Week 06:00 - Introducing our top five episodes since Industrial Water Week 2023 08:03 - Interview with Doctor Swati Sharma of Water Engineering Incorporated, about 43:30 - Drop by Drop with James McDonald Connect with Swati Sharma, Ph.D. Phone: 402.521.4161 Email: [email protected] Website: www.h2oeng.com LinkedIn: in/swati-sharma-ph-d-91449518 company/water-engineering-inc Read the Press Release HERE Links Mentioned "How to Estimate the Best Treatment Conditions for Sunflower Oil Wastewater Using Advanced Electrooxidation Process" - Thesis by Dr. Swati Sharma Follow Dr. Swati Sharma on Google Scholar and be updated on her publications The Rising Tide Mastermind Top 5 Episodes since 2023's Industrial Water Week 341 Guarding Against Legionella: The Hidden Dangers of Dead Legs in Water Systems with lab partner Richard Philip Beckett 348 Credentials and Codes: Plumbing Strategies Against Legionella with Christoph Lohr 328 Industrial W

"What's the most economical, acceptable, compliance-based solution?" In our latest podcast episode, we sat down with returning guest Michael J. Soller P.E. CPC, DBIA the Vice President of Business Development at Bowen Engineering Corporation. Michael shares his deep expertise in compliance, problem-solving, and project management in the treatment of industrial wastewater discharge. Drawing from his technical paper titled "Treatment of Aerospace Machining and Inspection Wastewater," published through the International Water Conference (IWC), Michael's insights offer valuable lessons for both seasoned professionals and newcomers to the field. What was the challenge in treating aerospace machining wastewater? Michael's team was tasked with solving a unique and complex problem: treating wastewater from aerospace machining and inspection processes, which included both oily and chemical-laden water. The challenge? The wastewater had a makeup that was difficult to treat using standard industrial methods due to high variability in water quality, coupled with strict environmental regulations. Michael explains, "The project demanded an innovative approach to remove oils, emulsifiers, and heavy metals, all while ensuring that we met the discharge standards set forth by regulatory bodies." His team had to develop a custom treatment system that could handle the specific composition of the wastewater and still operate efficiently on a day-to-day basis. How was the technical problem solved? Michael's approach revolved around advanced treatment technologies. His team implemented a combination of physical separation processes, chemical treatment, and membrane filtration to address the variable wastewater composition. They also designed the system to operate within tight environmental discharge limits. "We needed a solution that was flexible yet robust enough to consistently meet compliance while accounting for changes in water makeup," he says. His team's strategy of using adaptable treatment methods ensured that the system could be fine-tuned as needed without sacrificing performance or sustainability. How Can We Ensure Compliance in Wastewater Management? Michael walked us through a crucial aspect of industrial water treatment: staying in compliance with local discharge standards. Daily monitoring, regular equipment maintenance, and thorough record-keeping are essential. As Michael put it, it's a simple equation: "Either they're in compliance or they're not." One standout example is how his client wisely operated at a 60-70% capacity rather than pushing their system to 100%. This allowed room for planned maintenance and unexpected issues without jeopardizing compliance. Michael highlighted the importance of planning for maintenance, saying, "They know they're going to have variability, so they plan accordingly." This proactive approach minimizes the risk of being caught off guard and incurring fines or downtime. Managing Projects Without Sacrificing Capacity In industrial projects, there's often a temptation to "value engineer" and eliminate extra capacity to cut costs. Michael shared a compelling example of how a customer made a deliberate choice to avoid this pitfall, ensuring they had the necessary leeway to maintain and repair equipment without maxing out their system's capacity. For customers who may be hesitant about building in extra capacity, Michael recommends having an honest and clear conversation about roles and responsibilities. He stresses that clients must make the final decision, but it's the engineer's job to provide accurate data and practical recommendations. Lessons for Future Industrial Water Projects Michael's work on aerospace wastewater treatment offers practical lessons for other industries facing similar challenges. From early collaboration with key stakeholders to thorough pilot testing of treatment methods, Michael stresses the importance of meticulous planning. "One of the biggest lessons we learned is to engage with the operations team from the beginning. Their input is invaluable in designing a system that will work smoothly in practice," Michael points out. By incorporating feedback from plant operators and end-users, his team was able to build a solution that not only met environmental regulations but also aligned with operational needs. Dive Deeper into Michael's Paper For those interested in a more technical dive, you can access Michael's full paper, "Treatment of Aerospace Machining and Inspection Wastewater," linked in our show notes. It's a must-read for anyone tackling similar industrial water challenges or looking to enhance their knowledge of specialized wastewater treatment processes. As always, stay curious, stay informed, and keep scaling up your knowledge with us! The Scaling UP! H2O Team Timestamps 01:00 - Trace Blackmore thanks you for the privilege of receiving the AWT Innovation Award 02:30 Trace Blackmore's top 5 items to do to ensure you have faith in your test equipment

How Veolia Prioritizes Health and Safety Worldwide? At Veolia, safety isn't just a requirement—it's embedded in the company's core values. Leading the charge is Arnaud Valleteau de Moulliac, Chief Executive Officer of Veolia Water Technologies. In this week's episode, Arnaud speaks with Scaling UP! H2O host Trace Blackmore about how safety initiatives are reshaping Veolia's culture around the world. Arnaud emphasizes that health and safety are non-negotiable: "It's a 24/7 commitment." This episode takes you inside Veolia's global approach, showing how the company's 8,000+ employees have integrated safety into their daily routines. What Drives Veolia's Health and Safety Initiatives? For Arnaud, safety comes from a personal place: "As a father of four, ensuring everyone gets home safely is paramount." This family-first approach reflects Veolia's deep commitment to safety, which has been an ongoing focus for over a decade. "Ten years ago, we launched International Health and Safety Week, where every subsidiary worldwide participates in focused discussions and actions on safety." This annual event creates a space for employees to assess their work environments, recognize potential risks, and form long-lasting safety habits. But at Veolia, safety isn't just about one week—it's about creating a culture that endures year-round. Fostering a Culture of Safety Every Day While International Health and Safety Week serves as a focal point, Veolia's goal is to make safety a daily priority. "We need to ensure that health and safety are part of our everyday routines, not just something we think about once a year," Arnaud notes. To keep safety top of mind, managers at Veolia conduct at least six field visits each year, evaluating safety practices and identifying areas for improvement. Employees are encouraged to report near-misses and incidents, creating a culture were speaking up about safety is valued. "It's about creating an environment where people feel safe to voice concerns without fear of judgment," Arnaud says. "Building trust is essential." A Cultural Shift: Breaking Old Safety Norms One of Veolia's biggest achievements over the last decade has been a shift in how employees view safety. Arnaud recalls a time when raising safety concerns was often seen as a sign of weakness. Today, those conversations are welcomed and encouraged. "There used to be this mentality of being a 'superman'—toughing it out in unsafe conditions. That's behind us now, but we always stay cautious. The human element means we can never stop paying attention to safety," Arnaud warns. This shift has been a significant victory for Veolia, but the work isn't finished. The company remains vigilant, continually adapting its safety approach to address both evolving risks and human factors. Celebrating 10 Years of Health and Safety Transformation As Veolia marks the 10th anniversary of International Health and Safety Week, Arnaud reflects on the company's progress. One key success has been the reduction in workplace accidents and the increasing willingness of employees to report safety risks. "Ten years ago, speaking up about safety could be seen as a weakness," Arnaud explains. "Today, it's a sign of strength and responsibility." This cultural change has transformed how employees view safety—not as a policy, but as a core value that protects their colleagues and ensures everyone returns home safely. Starting a Safety Culture: Insights for Small Teams For small businesses, building a safety culture might seem overwhelming. However, as Arnaud explains, it's not about financial investment—it's about leadership and intention. "Safety starts at the top. Being an exemplary leader doesn't cost anything. It's about creating policies and following through. Take time to sit with your team and ask, 'What are the risks?' It's an investment in people, not just resources. Any company, no matter its size, can do this," Arnaud emphasizes. Manager Visits: Fresh Eyes on the Ground As part of Veolia's commitment to safety, manager site visits provide an opportunity for leadership to spot issues that might have become invisible to regular operators. These visits aren't just procedural—they're a chance to bring fresh perspectives into the conversation. "Even non-operational colleagues—those from HR or finance—ask valuable questions during these visits. Their common sense often uncovers risks that might otherwise go unnoticed. Safety is about asking the right questions, not about being an expert," Arnaud explains. One Key Takeaway: Lead by Example If there's one message Arnaud wants listeners to take away, it's this: "Be exemplary. It starts with you." Veolia's success in transforming its safety culture is a powerful reminder that leadership and continuous vigilance are the best tools for creating a safe working environment, no matter the size of the operation. Stay Informed and Stay Safe! As Veolia's journey shows, building a culture of health and safety requires effort,

"There's no doubt that heavy metal waste streams come with a significant amount of occupational risks." In this powerful episode of Scaling UP! H2O, Trace Blackmore engages with Chandler Mancuso from MacDermid Envio Solutions to share insights on this vital topic of segregating wastewater streams in heavy metals removal applications. Chandler shares his extensive expertise on the often-overlooked aspects of wastewater management, providing valuable insights into safety, strategic planning, and the power of experimentation. Why is Segregating Wastewater Streams Crucial? Wastewater management is more than just treating what goes down the drain. It's about understanding where your wastewater comes from and managing it effectively from the start. Chandler explains that his motivation for focusing on this area stems from two key factors: safety and technical insight. Heavy metal waste streams can pose significant risks, making safe handling and treatment a top priority. Chandler emphasizes the need for water professionals to fully understand the sources and composition of wastewater streams before diving into treatment processes. This strategic approach not only enhances safety but also leads to more efficient and effective solutions. For Those New to the Industry: What is a Wastewater Stream? A wastewater stream encompasses all the different sources of wastewater generated during various industrial processes before they reach the treatment stage. Chandler shifts the conversation from the treatment process itself to the strategy of managing these diverse streams upstream. By focusing on this early stage, water professionals can address challenges before they escalate, ensuring more efficient and effective treatment outcomes. Understanding the Role of Heavy Metals in Wastewater Heavy metal waste streams, which often originate from industries such as electroplating, metal finishing, and mining, can contain hazardous metals like zinc, nickel, copper, and chrome, along with other dangerous constituents like cyanide and fluoride. Properly categorizing and treating these complex streams is crucial for maintaining safety and effectiveness in wastewater treatment. How to Ensure Health and Safety of People and Equipment Safety is paramount when dealing with heavy metal waste streams. Chandler advises segregating incompatible waste streams to prevent dangerous reactions, such as the formation of hydrogen cyanide when cyanide-containing streams are mixed with acidic streams. By avoiding these hazardous combinations, water professionals can significantly reduce safety risks and protect both people and equipment. Real-World Examples and Common Pitfalls Chandler shares real-world scenarios, such as the critical need to keep cyanide-containing waste streams away from acidic conditions to prevent the formation of toxic hydrogen cyanide. Despite being well-known, these safety measures are sometimes overlooked, highlighting the importance of vigilance and thorough system design in wastewater management. Best Practices for Wastewater Management Never take safety for granted. Chandler encourages listeners to continuously question the conditions they are working with and to always prioritize health and safety. By remaining aware of potential hazards and continuously optimizing processes, water treaters can ensure safe and effective wastewater management. Enhancing Efficiency and Effectiveness Through Stream Segregation Segregation of wastewater streams is key to optimizing treatment processes. Chandler discusses how his team at MacDermid Envio Solutions has developed specific protocols for managing challenging waste streams separately, improving operational efficiency and optimizing chemical usage. This not only leads to cost savings but also enhances overall treatment effectiveness. Experimentation: The Key to Success Chandler highlights the importance of creative problem solving in wastewater treatment. A thorough understanding of waste streams, combined with a well-designed experimental approach, can reveal unique solutions that improve treatment outcomes. By being creative and flexible during jar testing, water professionals can uncover innovative strategies that provide significant benefits to their customers. From Jar Testing to Real-Life Application Translating jar testing results into real-world applications can be challenging, but it is essential for achieving practical, effective solutions. Chandler emphasizes the need for accuracy and adaptability in testing protocols to ensure a smooth transition from the lab to the field. Timestamps 01:00 - Thank you for giving us the AWT Innovation Award for the work we do at the Scaling UP! H2O Podcast we are humbled and honored 08:20 - Catching up with returning guest Chandler Mancuso of MacDermid Envio Solutions 16:18 - The Importance of Segregating Wastewater Streams in Heavy Metals Removal Applications 50:00 - Upcoming Events for Water Treatment Professionals 51:30 - Drop by Drop

Meet the Women Behind the WOW Committee This episode features insights from six trailblazing women who are not only leaders in their respective fields but also passionate advocates for the WOW mission: Stephanie Choury, Enterprise Account Manager at Buckman Digital Water Tammy Faber Sales Director of HOH Water Technology and Co-Chair of WOW (Women of Water) Paule Genest, Director of Sales and ESG, Water and Energy at TGWT Clean Technologies, Host of the Paule-Cast and Co-Chair of WOW (Women of Water) Michelle Lunn, Marketing Director of GLA Water Consultants & Director on the AWT Board Janice Shawl, President of AMSA, Inc. a specialty chemical manufacturing company Pam Simmons, National OEM Sales Manager, Watson Marlow What is Women of Water? WOW exists to welcome, highlight, and celebrate the contributions of women in AWT. Paule Genest articulates the mission clearly: "To encourage all the women working and thriving within the industry of water technologies to come forward and contribute their time and talents to the greater good." WOW focuses on creating a thriving community where women can belong, elevate, and positively impact AWT. Mission of the WOW Committee The mission of the WOW Committee is clear: to promote the professional development and advancement of women in the water treatment industry. By providing education, networking opportunities, and a strong support system, the committee aims to foster a diverse and inclusive environment where all members can succeed. This mission not only benefits women but also strengthens the industry as a whole by encouraging fresh perspectives and innovative approaches. Facing Challenges Head-On In every industry, women encounter unique challenges, and the water treatment sector is no exception. Pam Simmons, a dedicated member of the Women of Water (WOW) committee, sheds light on the obstacles women face and how the committee is striving to address them. Pam begins by acknowledging a reality that many women are all too familiar with the gender pay gap. According to the International Labor Organization, women globally earn about 20% less than men. This disparity is not just a number; it's a barrier that women must navigate throughout their careers. But the pay gap is only one piece of a much larger puzzle. There is also the issue of unequal opportunities, particularly in leadership. A 2022 report from Deloitte on women in the boardroom highlights that only 19% of boardroom positions are held by women. This underrepresentation speaks volumes about the challenges women face in advancing to leadership roles. For many women, the journey to the top is not just about breaking the glass ceiling; it's about finding the ladder to reach it in the first place. Career gaps present another significant hurdle. Whether its time taken off to have a baby or care for a family member, these interruptions can create substantial obstacles when women return to the workforce. Pam points out that these gaps can make it difficult for women to regain their footing and continue progressing in their careers. The struggle doesn't stop there. Navigating work-life balance is another challenge that resonates with everyone, regardless of gender, but it affects women in distinct ways. Pam reflects on how this delicate balance—or lack thereof—can leave a lasting impact on both personal and professional lives. The WOW committee is not just identifying these challenges—they are actively working to address them. Pam shares that WOW is committed to introducing resources and strategies to help women cope with these challenges. Through support, education, and community, WOW aims to empower women in the water treatment industry to not just survive but thrive. How is WOW Helping Women in the Water Industry? The WOW Committee is already making a significant impact. There are now three women on AWT's Board of Directors, the most ever in the organization's history. Stephanie Choury has seen firsthand how the inclusion of women has led to greater collaboration and innovation within the industry. She notes that the women on the Board feel they have a "seat at the table" and are making meaningful contributions alongside their male colleagues. WOW is also instrumental in providing mentorship and creating spaces for women to grow their knowledge, skills, and leadership roles. The Power of Mentorship Mentorship is central to the Women of Water (WOW) committee's mission, acting as a crucial tool for professional growth and community building. As the industry evolves, mentorship plays a key role in creating pathways for women in water treatment. Tammy Faber emphasizes the importance of mentorship, referencing Lean In by Sheryl Sandberg. Sandberg highlights that a mentor or sponsor can significantly boost career progression, yet women often lack such support. WOW addresses this gap by connecting seasoned professionals with newcomers. Tammy explains, "It's not just about an older professional helping a younger one; it'

Welcome back, Scaling UP! Nation. Have you ever wondered about the hidden dangers of biofilm lurking in your water systems? In our latest Legionella Awareness Month episode, we deep dive into the world of biofilm and its critical link to Legionella with our returning expert, Loraine Huchler, President of MarTech Systems. Packed with invaluable insights and practical advice, this episode is a must-listen for anyone in the water treatment industry. Don't miss it! Ever Wondered How Biofilm and Legionella are Connected? "If you have no biofilm, your risk of Legionella is very low." - Loraine Huchler Loraine Huchler provides an insightful explanation of the complex relationship between biofilm and Legionella interacting within cooling water systems. Life Cycle of Legionella: "Legionella is an aerobic bacteria, while the bacteria inside the biofilm might be anaerobic—they don't need oxygen to thrive. Some can even switch between oxygen-loving and anaerobic states. Legionella matures and seeks a higher life form to reproduce, essentially acting as a parasite within the biofilm." Reproduction and Spread: "In cooling water systems, especially comfort cooling systems that operate seasonally, Legionella can reproduce within the biofilm even when systems are idle. The biofilm's thickness increases due to the abundance of bacteria. When the system restarts, the force of the water shears off the top layer of the biofilm, dispersing bacteria throughout the entire chiller system." Challenges in Bacteria Control: Loraine emphasizes, "This scenario illustrates why it's so difficult to control bacteria in cooling water systems. The constant cycle of biofilm formation and disruption means bacteria, including Legionella, are continuously spread and difficult to manage." Implications for Industrial Water Professionals: Understanding this complex relationship is crucial for implementing effective water treatment strategies. Regular monitoring and proactive management of biofilm are essential to mitigate the risks associated with Legionella and maintain system efficiency. How Do You Measure the Amount of Biofilm, and How Does This Measuring Technology Work? "Adding a biofilm sensor will give real-time early detection of biofilm and make precision dosing a reality for biocides which can kill Legionella." - Loraine Huchler Exploring Biofilm Measurement Technologies: Loraine Huchler delves into the intricacies of measuring biofilm, highlighting two key technologies: Electrochemical and Ultrasonic. Ultrasonic Technology: "The ultrasonic technology is novel and proprietary. Currently, only one water treatment company has developed it, and access to this online sensor is limited to their customers. This technology is the only sensor that measures biofilm in an online system. It includes a test chamber with a heated surface and a precisely controlled water flow that matches your most vulnerable heat exchanger. Using ultrasonic technology, it determines the biofilm thickness." Applications and Considerations: Loraine poses an intriguing question: "If you know the biofilm thickness, you could calculate the heat transfer loss in your heat exchangers, potential production loss in a process plant, or increased electrical demand in a chiller plant. However, managing biofilm effectively only requires knowing its presence so you can react. The ultrasonic technology, while sophisticated, is more complicated, expensive, and challenging to use compared to electrochemical sensors." Electrochemical Sensors: "The electrochemical sensors don't require a test chamber, allowing them to be placed in various locations to monitor biofilm. For example, you might choose a sump, a quiet area where the biofilm may not be mobile and may not respond to water treatment dosing." Mechanism and Sensitivity: Loraine explains the mechanism behind biofilm formation: "Quorum sensing is the process where bacteria hover above a surface and assess it before settling. The electrochemical device triggers a signal the moment bacteria sit on the surface, providing an extremely sensitive early warning of biofilm formation." Practical Implications for Water Professionals: Understanding where to place these sensors and how they work is crucial for effective biofilm management. Loraine emphasizes, "This economical and insightful method helps you understand biofilm risks in your cooling water systems, even though I've never seen one in service. It's essential to explore these technologies to monitor biofilm and mitigate its impact on your systems." Actionable Steps for the Scaling UP! Nation. Increase Awareness: Understanding the importance of biofilm can help in mitigating Legionella risks. Leverage Technology: Utilize biofilm sensors for early detection and effective treatment. Optimize Efficiency: Regular monitoring and maintenance can prevent biofilm buildup, ensuring optimal system performance. Timestamps 00:30 - Trace Blackmore welcomes you to Legionella Awareness Month 02:40

"It is a team effort to protect public health from Legionella." - Alberto Comazzi, Ph.D. We are excited to welcome back Alberto Comazzi, Ph.D. of Sanipur US, for his third appearance on the Scaling UP! H2O Podcast. As an expert in waterborne pathogens, Alberto shares his invaluable insights and experiences about Legionella to help our audience stay informed and proactive in managing water systems. In this episode, we cover a wide range of topics from handling positive Legionella tests to the effectiveness of monochloramine in disinfection. Let's dive into the key points of our discussion. How do you handle a call from a client panicking about their first positive Legionella test? Alberto advises us to stay calm and follow the pre-established plan outlined in the Water Management Plan (WMP). First, review the WMP to understand the specific steps to take for this scenario. Consider the positivity rates and the location where Legionella was found. By following the agreed-upon plan, you can address the client's concerns effectively and ensure proper action is taken. Why have we seen Legionella increase by nearly ten times over the past few years? "5-6 years ago there wasn't much information about Legionella, and today so many people are interested in this field which protects public health." - Alberto Comazzi, PhD Dr. Comazzi highlights two key factors behind the significant rise in Legionella cases: 1. Enhanced Water Testing and Awareness: The past few years have seen a substantial increase in both awareness and testing for Legionella. Healthcare professionals are now more informed about the risks of Legionella and are conducting more tests. Since 2017, the requirement for Water Management Plans (WMPs) in healthcare facilities has led to more comprehensive water testing, contributing to the rise in detected cases. 2. Increased Water Age in Buildings: Efforts to conserve water, which have important environmental benefits such as saving energy and reducing costs, have inadvertently led to higher water age in building systems. When water remains in systems for longer periods, it can lead to reduced disinfectant levels and higher water temperatures—conditions that promote Legionella growth. While water conservation is crucial, balancing it with effective Legionella control measures is essential for maintaining public health. By understanding these factors, we can better address and mitigate Legionella risks, ensuring a safer environment for everyone. What advice do you have for those putting together a WMP but who doesn't have the ASSE 1280 Certification? Get Certified or Seek Expert Help: Creating a comprehensive Water Management Plan (WMP) can be complex. While obtaining ASSE 1280 certification is highly recommended, you can also consider hiring a consultant to help you draft your plan. However, it's crucial to ensure that you execute and document the plan effectively. Proper training for facility operators on temperature control, flushing procedures, disinfectant management, and documentation is essential. "A Water Management Plan that's just sitting on the shelf isn't doing anyone any good. If no one implements the plan, it is useless." Dr. Alberto Comazzi emphasizes, "Proactive measures are better and more cost-effective than reactive ones." With upcoming due diligence plans addressing various waterborne pathogens, being prepared is key. Who has responsibility when it comes to municipal water? Alberto reminds us that there is a division between the municipality and the building. Municipal Water Responsibility: Municipal water suppliers are responsible for providing water that meets regulatory standards up to the distribution system. They conduct primary disinfection to inactivate most microorganisms and secondary disinfection to maintain a residual disinfectant. However, there are no enforceable limits for Legionella in the municipal water supply, and testing for Legionella is not required. Building-Level Responsibility: Once water leaves the municipal system and enters a building, the responsibility for water safety, including Legionella control, falls to the building owner or manager. Building environments, with their complex plumbing systems, cooling towers, and hot water systems, can foster Legionella growth. Therefore, effective management and control measures at the building level are crucial for ensuring water safety. Monochloramine vs. Chlorine: Which is better Disinfection and Legionella Control in Building Water Systems? Alberto highlights the advantages of monochloramine over chlorine: Case Study Results: A case study in San Francisco showed that switching from chlorine to monochloramine in the municipal water supply significantly reduced Legionella positivity rates in buildings—from 60% to 3-4%. This demonstrates the effectiveness of monochloramine in providing better overall disinfection due to its stability and ability to maintain higher disinfectant levels in building plumbing systems. Comparis

"To find the most sensitive, accurate, reproducible, and reliable method for detecting and quantifying Legionella in a sample, qPCR is the best option." - Michael Loewenstein In this much-anticipated episode highlighting the findings of Part 2 of Michael Loewenstein and Joe Benzinger's study, Michael Loewenstein, Vice President of Scientific Consulting at Q Laboratories, returns to share their surprising discoveries. He offers valuable advice to water professionals on developing strategies for incorporating qPCR in a Water Management Plan (WMP). Join Trace Blackmore and Michael Loewenstein as they guide you through the latest advancements in Legionella detection methods, the nuances of traditional culture techniques versus modern qPCR, and the future of water management. What Are the Different Testing Methods for Legionella? Michael elaborates on the two primary methods for Legionella testing: traditional culture techniques (ISO 11731) and qPCR. Culture methods, while widely used, take a significant amount of time (7 to 14+ days) to yield results. In contrast, qPCR offers faster and more sensitive detection, identifying the presence and quantity of Legionella DNA in a matter of hours. Is There a "Gold Standard" for Legionella Testing? The term "Gold Standard" often pops up in discussions about Legionella testing, but as Michael points out, no regulatory body has officially designated a single best method. While ISO 11731 is a trusted standard, Michael argues that qPCR provides a more reliable, accurate, and sensitive approach for detecting and quantifying Legionella in samples. What Were the Findings from Phase 2 of His Study? Michael shares findings from a two-phase study comparing cultural methods with PCR and qPCR. Phase 1 focused on method validation, confirming the efficacy of commercially available PCR methods. Phase 2 moved to real-world samples, revealing that qPCR detected Legionella in about 67% of samples, far surpassing the detection rates of traditional culture methods. What Can qPCR Do and How Does It Differ from Culture Methods? qPCR is a powerful tool in Legionella testing. Unlike culture methods that rely on colony-forming units, qPCR measures the number of DNA copies present in a sample, providing a clear picture of the Legionella population. It can also distinguish between viable and non-viable cells, making it a comprehensive and efficient method for routine monitoring. How Would Michael Set Up His Water Management Plan (WMP)? When asked how he would set up his water management plan, Michael emphasizes the importance of frequent testing. He advocates for the use of qPCR due to its speed and sensitivity. However, he cautions that those uncomfortable with detecting any Legionella might find qPCR overwhelming, as it tends to reveal a higher positivity rate than traditional methods. How Does Pricing Compare Between Culture and qPCR Methods?Interestingly, Q Laboratories charges the same for both qPCR and culture methods. Despite higher costs for qPCR, it requires significantly less analyst time, making it a cost-effective choice for many labs. What's Next for Phase 3 of the Study? The next phase of Michael's study aims to explore additional factors such as UV light treatment. He encourages feedback from the community to ensure all relevant aspects are covered in the ongoing research. How Can I Get Involved with the AOAC Legionella Working Group? Please visit www.aoac.org/news/legionella-in-water-wg-volunteers-needed . If you would like to support this initiative or are interested in more information, please reach out to [email protected]. Michael's key message is that qPCR is a viable, non-intimidating option for Legionella testing. He reassures listeners that the CDC does not mandate the use of culture methods exclusively. Embracing qPCR can lead to more accurate monitoring and better-informed water management decisions. Until next Friday's episode, stay curious, stay informed, and keep scaling up your Legionella knowledge! Your roadside friends as you drive from client to client, The Scaling UP! H2O Team Timestamps 01:00 - Trace Blackmore invites you to check out our Legionella Resources page 03:28 - Upcoming Events for Water Treatment Professionals 05:00 - Interview with Michael Loewenstein, Vice President, Scientific Consulting at Q Laboratories 51:05 - Drop by Drop With James McDonald Quotes "PCR detects whether Legionella DNA is present, while qPCR not only confirms its presence but also measures the quantity of Legionella DNA in a sample." - Michael Loewenstein "The CDC does not say you have to use culture." - Michael Loewenstein "An increase in Legionella positivity with a qPCR test is a feature, not a bug." - Michael Loewenstein Connect with Michael Loewenstein Phone: +1 513 207 4943 Email: [email protected] Website: Scientific Consulting for Q Labs LLC LinkedIn: Michael Loewenstein Read or Download Michael Loewenstein's Press Release HERE Links Mentioned Ep 269 E

We have the privilege of welcoming back Janet E. Stout, Ph.D., President of Special Pathogens Technology and the founder of Special Pathogens Laboratory, A Pace Laboratory. Dr. Stout has academic affiliations with the School of Public Health and Swanson School of Engineering at the University of Pittsburgh. A self-described "Legionellologist", Dr. Stout's more than 30 years of research has defined the epidemiology, microbiology and prevention approaches for controlling Legionella growth in building water systems. In our most recent interview, Dr. Janet Stout shared what was new with Legionella standards, what state health departments are doing to combat Legionella, and she answers your burning question of "Are Legionella cases truly on the rise" with data and statistics. This is a Legionella episode you cannot afford to miss, so let's scale up our Legionella knowledge with Dr. Stout. Also, don't forget to check out our free Legionella Resources page where we have listed all of the articles, standards, and tools mentioned in this interview. What Is New with Legionella Standards? How Does It Impact the Water Treatment Industry? Dr. Stout highlights several key updates: Association for the Advancement of Medical Instrumentation (AAMI) TIR34:2023 Published in Fall 2023, TIR34 focuses on water quality for reprocessing medical devices. Dr. Stout emphasizes, "The problem is infection. The solution is the quality of the water." "There are clear chemical and microbial parameters, and these healthcare facilities need your assistance, water professionals," Dr. Stout encourages. ANSI/AAMI ST108:2023 This new standard, "Water for the processing of medical devices," emphasizes the critical role of monitoring water quality to prevent microbial proliferation. ST108 is a significant step forward for patient safety. "I see so many positive indications of progress and prevention, and that's good for everyone," shares Dr. Stout. General Services Administration (GSA) Order PBS 1000.7A Effective in 2024, this order mandates comprehensive water testing across federal buildings to ensure health and safety. It includes stringent testing protocols for contaminants like Legionella. Compliance requires professionals to hold certifications such as ASSE 12080 or be certified industrial hygienists (CIH). Dr. Stout remarks, "It's such a big deal that you have to be ASSE 12080 certified to service government buildings now, I'm really impressed by GSA." American Water Works Association (AWWA) Guidance Set to be updated in 2024 or 2025, the new standard will replace AWWA C651-C652 and will likely be titled "Disinfecting Potable Water." This new guidance will provide updated protocols for disinfecting water-storage facilities, so be on the lookout for this new one. ANSI/ASHRAE Standard 514:2023 This standard focuses on risk management for building water systems, covering physical, chemical, and microbial hazards. It provides comprehensive guidelines for designing, building, maintaining, and operating water systems to protect building occupants. Challenge to the Listener: Educate Yourself: Familiarize yourself with the latest standards, including TIR34, ST108, GSA Order PBS 1000.7A, and ANSI/ASHRAE Standard 514. Engage with Clients: Reach out to healthcare facilities and federal buildings to offer your expertise in water management and help them navigate the new requirements. Stay Informed: Keep an eye on updates from organizations like AAMI, ASHRAE, GSA, and AWWA to stay ahead of industry changes. What's Going on in Ohio? Will Other States Follow Ohio? Ohio's Proactive Approach Dr. Janet Stout praises Ohio's innovative approach to managing Legionella risks. Unlike most areas where Legionella water management is voluntary, Ohio has taken a significant step by mandating it through hospital licensure codes. This mandate requires hospitals to have a water management plan and to test for Legionella, making compliance a condition for maintaining their licenses. The new regulation, scheduled to take effect in October 2024, aims to enhance infection control and manage the risk of waterborne pathogens, particularly Legionella. High Incidence of Legionnaires Disease Ohio's proactive stance is partly driven by its high incidence of Legionnaires disease. The state, along with Maryland, Pennsylvania, and New York, consistently reports high numbers of cases. Ohio's health department has noted a significant increase in cases from 2022 to 2023. This alarming trend highlights the urgent need for effective water management and testing protocols. The Ohio Regulation Specifies Detailed Requirements for Hospitals: Each hospital must conduct Legionella testing within the first twelve months. Two validation tests must be performed, no fewer than four months apart and no more than six months apart. The regulation includes explicit language to ensure rigorous water management and Legionella testing. The Future for Other States Dr. Stout is hopeful that other states w

Hello Scaling UP! Nation, August is Legionella Awareness Month, and we're excited to bring you in-depth insights on this crucial topic. Usually, we bring you four episodes every August, but this year, you're in luck! With five Fridays this month, we have five episodes packed with valuable information for you. Today, podcast host Trace Blackmore, CWT, is here to answer your pressing questions about Legionella. As industrial water treaters, you are the heroes in the fight against Legionella, protecting your communities and clients against this dangerous bacteria. Scaling up your Legionella knowledge is a great way to celebrate Legionella Awareness Month, and to support you, we've created a free Legionella resources page at www.ScalingUpH2o.com/Legionella Understanding Legionella: Common Questions Answered What is the difference between Legionella and Legionnaires' disease? Legionella is a bacteria responsible for Legionnaires' disease, a type of pneumonia that comes from getting ill after being exposed to Legionella. It thrives in water and poses significant health risks. Legionnaires' disease was discovered in the mid 1970's after several attendees of the American Legion convention got sick after attending the convention. How does a person get Legionnaires' disease? Inhaling water contaminated with Legionella bacteria can lead to infection. What are the symptoms of Pontiac Fever or Legionnaires' disease? Early symptoms mimic the flu, but more severe pneumonia-like symptoms can develop. Look out for high fever, cough, difficulty breathing, chills, and diarrhea. How common is Legionnaires' disease? Per the CDC, in 2015 there were approximately 6,000 cases reported in the United States. Who is at higher risk for developing Legionnaires' disease? While most people have resistance, fewer than 5 in 100 exposed individuals may develop the disease. High-risk groups include older adults, smokers, and those with weakened immune systems. How does Legionella enter buildings? Legionella enters through a building's makeup water. This is why we need to test the water coming into a building's system and also set up a program to test within the system so we know what to do and respond appropriately if a test comes back positive for Legionella bacteria. What promotes Legionella growth? Biofilm, temperature fluctuations, inadequate disinfectant levels, and water stagnation within building water systems can promote Legionella growth What are Water Management Programs (WMPs)? WMPs are designed to identify hazardous conditions and minimize the growth and spread of waterborne pathogens, including Legionella, in building water systems. How Should I Discuss Legionella Testing Frequency with a Client Who Only Wants to Test Once a Year? When discussing Legionella testing with a client who only wants to test once a year, emphasize the importance of more frequent testing for safety and compliance. Here's how to approach the conversation: Encourage Regular Testing: I always encourage people to test for Legionella at least every season or quarter. Regular testing helps identify potential issues early, ensuring the safety of your water system. Refer to the Water Management Plan (WMP): It's crucial to refer back to your Water Management Plan (WMP) to understand the necessary steps if a test comes back positive for Legionella bacteria. Develop a Comprehensive Plan: Let's come up with a plan outlining what we are going to test, how often we will test, and how we will use the data. We should also decide how to handle positive results, particularly for different Legionella species. Taking some time to plan upfront will streamline the process when collecting water samples. By emphasizing the benefits of regular testing and a proactive approach, you can help clients understand the importance of more frequent Legionella testing and the value of a detailed WMP. Where can I find more information? On our Scaling UP! H2O Legionella Resources Page at www.ScalingUpH2o.com/Legionella there you'll find Legionella resources collected from the CDC, ASHRAE, OSHA, ASPE, WHO, ASSE, APIC, AIHA, ANSI, ASDWA, AWT, CMS, and others along with our prior Legionella podcast episodes, Legionella Legislation, and Legionella videos. Upcoming 2024 Legionella Awareness Month Episodes: This month, we have a special lineup of episodes focusing on Legionella, featuring expert guests who will share their insights: Episode 376: Dr. Janet Stout, PhD Episode 377: Michael Loewenstein Episode 378: Dr. Alberto Comazzi, PhD Episode 379: Loraine Huchler Stay tuned, and let's scale up our knowledge together to combat Legionella and ensure safer water systems. Thank you for being a part of the Scaling UP! H2O community. Thank you for celebrating Legionella Awareness Month with us. The Scaling UP! H2O Team Timestamps 01:00 - Trace Blackmore welcomes you to Legionella Awareness Month 03:00 - Upcoming Events for Water Treatment Professionals 06:00 - Answering Legionella Questions 31:15 - D

Each week, we bring you insights from industry experts to help you scale up your water treatment knowledge and operations. This week, we're thrilled to share strategies for effective customer and employee surveys based on a recent interview with Brian Katarski, Vice President of Sales and Marketing at AquaPhoenix Scientific. Brian's extensive experience in sales and marketing makes him a valuable source of knowledge on how to gather and use feedback to drive improvement. How Important is Feedback? "Feedback plays a very important role in all relationships: employees, coworkers, even your spouse." - Brian Katarski Feedback is a cornerstone of growth. It empowers teams to improve by increasing their knowledge and confidence. Brian emphasizes the necessity of not just collecting feedback but using it as a foundation for continuous improvement. What is Feedback? "The most important part of feedback is that we have to use it as a basis for improvement. You cannot collect feedback just to ignore it, or justify it away, or pretend like it doesn't exist." - Brian Katarski According to Brian, feedback should be actionable. Whether it's from customers or employees, feedback needs to be addressed constructively. Ignoring or dismissing feedback is counterproductive. Instead, look each other in the eye and commit to acting on the feedback received. How Do You Build a Healthy Culture of Feedback in Your Company? "The biggest piece to it is if you want to encourage this long-term over time is you have to respond to the feedback. You can't just ignore it, right? You can't ghost it, or you can't just think it didn't happen. or say. you know. justify it away. You have to respond to it in a way that lets somebody know 'I heard you. I understand. Here's what we're gonna do with that information now', right. And that way they and they now know that we care. That we want to hear what they have to say whether it's an employee or a customer. They know that we're going to listen to what they have to say, and they'll be more willing to share that information with us." - Brian Katarski Creating a healthy feedback culture starts with demonstrating that feedback is valued and acted upon. Brian highlights the importance of responding to feedback promptly and constructively. When employees or customers see that their input leads to real action, they are more likely to continue providing valuable insights. "You've got to try some different tactics and different things to try to reach certain people. Sometimes it's a quick paper survey. You know, maybe as you're walking out. Maybe you send an email or a link with your service reports whenever you send those off on Fridays or whenever you do it. Just different ways to do it, maybe put it on an invoice you're sending off, maybe have your marketing team sending those out, but you'll kind of figure out the best ways to gather that information depending on how people do it." - Brian Katarski Diverse methods of collecting feedback ensure that you reach a broad audience and gather a variety of perspectives. Whether it's through paper surveys, emails, links in service reports, or even feedback sections on invoices, finding the right approach for your audience is key to building a robust feedback culture. How Do You Start and Encourage a Feedback Process? "Build out a plan around what you want to gather feedback on. Start with the end in mind." - Brian Katarski Brian advises beginning with a clear plan. Identify what specific feedback you need and how you will use it to drive improvement. By focusing on the end goal, you can design a process that ensures the feedback is both meaningful and actionable. "It depends on what you want to gather and from who. It's gotta be simple and quick." - Brian Katarski To encourage feedback, keep surveys short and straightforward, aiming for 1-5 questions. Use a variety of methods depending on your audience—quick paper surveys, emails, or links in service reports. Formal methods and scheduled discussions can be employed when necessary. Track and trend feedback over time to pinpoint areas of improvement. "At AquaPhoenix, we celebrate feedback because it gives us a chance to learn and improve." - Brian Katarski A culture that values feedback fosters continuous learning and improvement. By celebrating feedback, you reinforce its importance and encourage ongoing participation from both employees and customers. What Are Some Common Feedback Mistakes to Avoid? "Humility is key. Accept feedback and resist the urge to get defensive." - Brian Katarski Brian stresses the importance of humility in accepting feedback. Early in his career, he struggled with defensiveness, but now he focuses on understanding the underlying issues and using feedback to drive improvement. "Every time I feel that weird reaction, that sort of tension, I ask myself: What's driving that? Where's that coming from? And 9 times out of 10, it's my ego. It's me trying to protect myself because I don't want

Collaboration: Enhancing Efficiency Through Industry Partnerships Welcome to this week's edition of Scaling UP! H2O, where we explore the critical role of water treatment in optimizing industrial processes. Today, we are privileged to hear from two distinguished guests: Tony Mormino and Justin Lynch. Tony is Technical Sales and Marketing Director for Insight Partners and host of the The Engineers HVAC Podcast specializing in education, while Justin focuses on cooling tower Reconstruction Specialists. Together, they share invaluable insights into collaborative strategies that ensure the best and most cost-effective solutions for cooling towers and closed loop systems. Their discussion focused on the importance of collaboration, cost efficiency, and proactive maintenance in the field of water treatment. Tony and Justin's insights provide a roadmap for water treaters to enhance client outcomes and operational efficiency through strategic partnerships and informed decision-making. What Are the Cost and Efficiency Benefits of Proper Water Treatment? Cost efficiency emerges as a significant topic. Tony Mormino underscores the financial benefits of proper water treatment, citing examples where a modest investment in water treatment can yield substantial savings. "According to the Department of Energy, 40% of a commercial building's energy consumption goes to HVAC systems," explains Tony. "Simply improving water quality can lead to 5-10% savings in energy costs. It's a quick win for green building initiatives." How Do You Prevent Vibrations in Cooling Towers? Bad vibrations in cooling towers can be a significant issue if not addressed early. Justin Lynch highlights the importance of monitoring biological buildup and evaporative salts on the fans. "It's very difficult to do that if you don't catch it early. Let's say we go to a facility with an old tower and an old fan—there's going to be a little bit of biology on top, which is not a big deal. You can brush that off, do a light pressure washing, and it's not going to hurt it," explains Justin. However, the real issue arises when scale develops unevenly on each blade. "At that point, the fan may look horrible, but the tower still operates without vibration. If you clean five out of six blades well but can't get the scale off one blade, you just created a vibration, leading to other issues in the tower." Justin advises that while chemical treatments are effective, they should be done with caution and under professional guidance to avoid exacerbating the problem. This proactive maintenance is less of a concern for newer towers that have had chemical treatment from the start. How Does Air in Closed Loop Chilled Water Systems Affect Performance? Tony Mormino highlights a critical yet often overlooked issue in water treatment: Air in closed loop chilled water systems. This issue not only leads to rust and oxidation but also significantly impacts the system efficiency and longevity. Studies and practical examples underscore the importance of air removal systems: Removing air from the chill water system can result in substantial benefits: Increase in Tonnage Output: Youngstown State University reported a 16% increase in tonnage output, equivalent to 400 additional tons. Improvement in Delta T: From 8.5-10°, enhancing heat transfer efficiency across chiller barrels. Enhanced Building Discharge Air Temperatures: Temperatures improved from 65° to 55°, optimizing HVAC system performance. Reduction in Pump Energy Consumption: A notable 37% reduction in annual KWH requirements due to cleaner water and improved system operation. Moreover, practical cases like at Waukesha Memorial Hospital in Wisconsin showed a 22% reduction in Variable Frequency Drive (VFD) speed, leading to an 85% decrease in corrosion preventative chemical usage. These examples illustrate the direct correlation between air removal and energy savings, reinforcing the significant impact of proper water treatment practices on operational efficiency and cost savings in commercial HVAC systems. How Important is Passivation for Equipment Longevity and Performance? Justin Lynch highlights the critical role of passivation in maintaining equipment longevity, particularly in galvanized towers. "Passivation is essential to prevent corrosion and ensure optimal performance," Justin explains. "For instance, following Marley's guidelines for pH and calcium hardness during passivation can extend the life of galvanized towers significantly." Conclusion In the fast-evolving landscape of industrial water treatment and HVAC systems, collaboration and continuous learning are paramount. Justin Lynch's closing thoughts encapsulate this spirit perfectly: "Don't be afraid to call, don't be afraid to collaborate. You are the expert in your field; I'm supposed to be the expert in mine. There's too much going on in this industry. It's growing too fast for everyone to really understand everything. So, if you don't know, ask questions and l

Our lab partner today is Jed Harris, owner of Puretec Industrial Water with over 25 years of experience in the water industry, to delve into the world of Reverse Osmosis (RO) systems. Jed's extensive experience and deep understanding of high-purity water solutions provided a wealth of knowledge, making this episode a must-listen for anyone looking to scale up their water treatment expertise. Below, we highlight some of the best insights Jed shared, aimed at making the complex world of RO systems more accessible and intriguing. Reverse Osmosis: The Industry Workhorse Jed describes reverse osmosis as the workhorse of water treatment, efficiently removing up to 99% of dissolved solids, organics, bacteria, and viruses. This process involves using a high-pressure pump to force water through a semi-permeable membrane, reversing natural osmotic pressure. Whether you're in power generation, food and beverage, or pharmaceuticals, understanding RO systems is crucial as they play a pivotal role in ensuring water purity. Common RO Applications and Challenges RO systems are ubiquitous across various industries. Jed emphasizes their versatility but also highlights the complexities involved in managing them. He notes that the feedwater chemistry can vary, making it essential for operators to understand and monitor their systems to maintain optimal performance. This is particularly critical as the industry pushes for higher recovery rates, often pushing RO systems to their limits. Key Metrics for Monitoring RO Systems Trace Blackmore posed a crucial question; "What are some of the key things that we should be looking at to tell what's going on within the RO?". Jed Harris provided valuable insights; "You want to look at your flows, your qualities, your pressures, and last but not least, the feedwater temperature—which has a huge effect on all this stuff. You want to look at your permeate flow, your concentrate flow, your feed pressure, your concentrate pressure, and your permeate pressure if available. And then the qualities would be your feed conductivity and your permeate conductivity." Practical Tips for RO System Maintenance Jed shared several practical tips for maintaining RO systems. He advises partnering with a company that can conduct water analysis and projection to set the system up correctly. Regularly collecting data—ideally daily—and using normalization software to interpret this data is crucial. He also cautioned against the impact of temperature changes, noting that a decrease in feedwater temperature can lead to a significant drop in permeate flow, potentially misleading operators to think there's a problem when there isn't. Normalizing Data for Accurate Analysis One of the most insightful parts of the discussion was on the importance of data normalization. Jed explained, "By normalizing the data, what you're doing is essentially taking data when you start up the RO system, and then, as you go into the future, you're comparing the current performance to how it should be at the baseline." This helps accurately assess the system's performance, especially when dealing with variables like temperature fluctuations that can significantly impact the RO system's output. Temperature's Effect on RO Jed Harris explains the critical impact of temperature on RO systems: "Temperature has such a huge effect on the amount of water that will go through a membrane. RO membranes are like the Miami Dolphins; they don't do well in cold weather. The rule of thumb is for every one-degree Fahrenheit drop in water temperature, you're going to lose about 1.5% in permeate flow. You might notice a decrease in permeate flow and think, 'Hey, these membranes are dirty. They're plugged. We need to clean; something's wrong.' But in reality, nothing's wrong. It's just that the feedwater temperature has dropped." Pre-Treatment is Key Jed Harris emphasizes the crucial role of proper pretreatment for RO systems: "Pre-treatment is the key to everything." Jed also highlights the growing adoption of Ultrafiltration (UF) systems, which offer a more consistent quality level compared to traditional multimedia filters. He outlines three primary objectives: Prevent Oxidizer Damage: Once an RO membrane is damaged by an oxidizer, the damage is irreversible. Inhibit Scale Growth: Delay and inhibit scale growth for as long as possible. Reduce Suspended Solids: Minimizing suspended solids helps achieve the highest possible recovery rate. Biofouling: The Unavoidable Challenge Trace and Jed addressed one of the most persistent issues with RO systems: biofouling. Jed explained, "Biofouling is a huge issue… it's going to happen because we're removing chlorine before the RO system." As chlorine, an oxidizer, is removed to protect the RO membranes, any bacteria that enter the system will thrive due to the rich nutrient environment. Monitoring normalized data is crucial as it provides early signs of membrane fouling, indicating it's time for cleaning. Jed highligh

"If you're calling it news. It has to be true." - Scott Slade In our latest episode of the Scaling UP! H2O podcast, host Trace Blackmore sits down with renowned journalist Scott Slade to delve into the critical role media plays in elections. With over 30 years of experience as the host of Atlanta Morning News on WSB Radio, and inducted into the Georgia Association of Broadcasters Hall of Fame, Scott brings unparalleled expertise and insight into the influence, accuracy, and bias of media as we approach the upcoming presidential election. Key Takeaways from the Episode The Importance of Accuracy in Journalism Scott Slade emphasizes that journalism is the first draft of history, highlighting the paramount importance of accuracy in traditional media. "It's your job to tell a balanced story, "He states, underscoring the responsibility of journalists to provide truthful and comprehensive coverage. Diversifying News Sources Slade advises against relying on a single news source, advocating for a well-rounded media diet. He champions the legitimacy and depth provided by local newspapers and stresses the need to consume news from multiple outlets to avoid the echo chamber effect. Scott advises, "Read a strong daily newspaper or two every day, even if it's online. Listen to more than one radio and TV station, and don't get caught in the echo chamber of ideas." The Dangers of Soundbites In today's fast-paced media landscape, soundbites can easily be taken out of context when there's a sensational sound bite. Scott recommends a thorough approach: "You should try to understand the who, the what, the when, the where, and the how of where that soundbite came from and why it's being used in the story." He warns against the sensationalism that can arise from these snippets and encourages listeners to seek out the full story to grasp the context and nuances behind the headlines, and reminds us that "It's up to the journalist to make sure you (the audience) understand the context. Social Media as a News Source While social media can be a convenient way to stay informed, Slade cautions against using it as a primary news source due to its potential for inaccuracy. He suggests prioritizing more reliable and vetted sources for critical information. Scott notes, "If I had to give up something, as far as being in the know about what's really going on, I think social media would be the first thing I'd give up. It has great entertainment value but when it comes to making decisions about things where you need to really rely on what's truthful and accurate. It can come up lacking." Factors that Drive Newsworthiness Slade outlines five key news values that attract the most attention: locality, universality, celebrity involvement, conflict, and oddity. Stories that meet these criteria are more likely to engage and inform the public. Scott shares, "If your story can fill one, or even better, more of those slots, it's usually a good one." Media's Influence on Elections The Power of Perception Media has a substantial influence on shaping public perception during elections. Scott explains, "Media can present a perception of someone by what they include and what they leave out." By choosing what to include and what to omit, media outlets can significantly impact voters' views. Upholding the Founding Fathers' Intent In a thought-provoking discussion, Slade and Blackmore touch on whether modern media upholds the First Amendment's intent. While media's role has evolved, the core responsibility of seeking and reporting truth remains unchanged. Scott remarks, "The society of professional journalists begins with seeking truth and reporting it." Advice for First-Time Voters For first-time voters feeling overwhelmed, Slade offers practical advice: "Preparation is the best remedy for stage fright. Knowledge is power." He encourages young voters to research candidates based on what matters most to them and to avoid the pitfalls of one-sided arguments. Final Thoughts This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the intricate relationship between media and elections. Scott Slade's insights provide valuable guidance on navigating the complex media landscape, ensuring you stay informed and make well-rounded decisions as we head into the election season. Listen to the Full Episode Don't miss this enlightening conversation with Scott Slade. Tune in to Scaling UP! H2O and gain a deeper understanding of the media's role in elections. Stay informed, stay engaged, and let's navigate this election season together! Timestamps 01:00 - Trace Blackmore celebrates 4th of July with our global audience and reflects on historical figure Patrick Henry 08:15 - Upcoming Events for Water Treatment Professionals 18:00 - Getting to know Scott Slade and his career 31:29 - Interview with Scott Slade, unbiased news 01:22:22 - Drop by Drop With James McDonald Quotes "The earth belongs always to the living generation… Every constitution, then, and every law, naturally exp

"Be curious, maintain an open mind, and maintain your high standards." - Lee Bainbrigge Our water treatment community is a close-knit brotherhood and sisterhood, regardless of where we live. We face similar challenges and share a common goal: to grow and learn from each other. Our latest podcast episode features a conversation that delves into the differences and similarities in Legionella control practices and regulations between the United States and the United Kingdom. This insightful episode features Lee Bainbrigge, Chief Sales and Marketing Officer of SMS Environmental Ltd as our charming lab partner. Key Insights from Lee Bainbrigge on Legionella Control: Differences in Legionella Management and Documentation In both countries, the primary Legionella control methods are keeping water moving and using temperature control. However, the UK places a stronger emphasis on documentation and compliance systems to record control measures. "The types of control you are using, you need to record it, you need to write it down in a compliance system," Lee explained. If a system tests positive for Legionella, it is crucial to effectively and clearly communicate to the client, "There's Legionella in the system. Let's look at doing something about it." In the UK, these communications are meticulously documented and kept as digital records for future reference. Crafting Effective Legionella Legislation When discussing what lawmakers should consider when writing Legionella legislation, Lee advised caution and balance. He noted that the guidance in the USA is relatively proportionate and effective when in the right hands. "Effectively, the guidance you've got in the USA is relatively proportionate... In the right hands, you're going to do a good job with the guidance that you've got," he noted. In contrast, the UK's approach can sometimes be overly prescriptive. Lee suggests a middle ground, advocating for guidance that is neither too relaxed nor too stringent, ensuring efforts and resources truly reduce risk. "I think the most reasonable guidance you could come up with is somewhere in between the two. There are pros and cons on both sides," Lee mentioned. ASHRAE 188 and Its Direction in the USA Lee affirmed that the USA is on the right track with ASHRAE 188 for Legionella control. "Yes, absolutely!" he responded when asked if the US is heading in the right direction. He highlighted the importance of competent professionals conducting Legionella risk assessments to ensure effective control measures. "Make sure that the people that are carrying out your Legionella risk assessment are competent and you're actually getting good advice at the beginning of your control scheme," he advised. Challenges and Technology Opportunities in the UK In the UK, current challenges include maintaining competency and training within the industry, adapting to novel systems like heat pumps, and dealing with reduced water flow in buildings. Lee mentioned the potential of new technologies, such as the Internet of Things (IoT) and remote monitoring, which could revolutionize Legionella control, although current guidance has yet to fully incorporate these advancements. "We have got challenges with... new novel systems coming into our domestic hot and cold water systems. The use of heat pumps and different ways of sourcing energy and reducing water flow are all having an impact on Legionella control," Lee explained. Building a Global Culture of Learning Lee is a strong advocate for collaboration within the industry. He believes in learning from each other and sharing best practices, which can greatly benefit organizations and improve public health protection. "I'm a big believer of us being collaborative in this industry," Lee shared. "When we see what somebody else is doing and establish what's working for organizations, that is just so great to see." Professional Standards and Certifications Lee discussed the significance of the Certified Water Technologist (CWT) certification. SMS Environmental Ltd. values high standards and depth of knowledge within its team, which is why they are strong proponents of the CWT certification. "We don't have in the UK an equivalent qualification specific to water treatment," Lee explained. "We've certainly looked at the CWT and gone, 'this does really what people that have been involved in the organization in the industry far longer than me tell me was very much the way the sector was born.'" Advice for Water Professionals Lee's best advice to water professionals is to "Be curious, maintain an open mind, and maintain your high standards." This approach has helped SMS Environmental Ltd. build strong, honest relationships with their customers and maintain their status as a leading independent company in the industry. Tune In to Scale UP Your Legionella Knowledge We encourage you to listen to the full interview with Lee Bainbrigge on the Scaling UP! H2O podcast. You'll gain deeper insights into Legionella control p

"Sales is never a quick process. The only way you can have a lasting sales relationship is to be honest, have a positive attitude, and hustle." - Fred Shurtz Discover the Roadmap to New Business Success! In our latest episode of Scaling UP! H2O, host Trace Blackmore sits down with Fred Shurtz, owner of Precision Chemical, to explore the intricate roadmap of acquiring new business. Fred, a seasoned expert in the water treatment industry, shares his journey, challenges, and strategies that have led to his success. Here's a sneak peek into some of the valuable insights Fred offers in this must-listen interview. From Engineer to Entrepreneur: Fred's Career Journey Fred's journey began with an engineering degree and a pivotal role at NALCO in 1988. He emphasizes the unique advantage of a sales career: controlling your destiny. "When there's no ceiling, you can earn a lot of money if you treat people right and do the right thing," Fred explains. He also highlights the importance of being a leader, stating, "You've got to be the person that people want to follow." Sales: It's a Crockpot, not a Microwave Sales, according to Fred, is a long-term process that requires honesty, a positive attitude, and hustle. "It's never a quick process," he notes, emphasizing that lasting sales relationships are built on these principles. The right technology also plays a crucial role in this equation. Earning Trust to Gain New Business Building trust is paramount. Fred listens attentively to his customers, understanding their needs through both words and body language. "If you are genuine with people and they have a need for what you have, then you'll make sales," he explains. Fred stresses the importance of persistence, patience, and viewing every person at a facility as a potential door-opener. "If it's not a win-win, it's not worth doing," he asserts. Client Surveys: Building Trust from the Start Fred emphasizes the importance of asking good questions, listening, and being attentive to clients' needs. Acting as an advocate and helper is essential in building trust with new clients. Crafting Proposals that Resonate Proposals should clearly demonstrate the benefits for the client. Fred believes in interactive presentations, using pen and paper to draw things out. "Hard selling doesn't work; you need to be a soft seller," he advises, focusing on building partnerships rather than just making sales. Sustaining Client Relationships Over the Years Continuous engagement and feedback are essential. Fred emphasizes fulfilling promises and regularly checking in with clients to ensure their needs are being met. "It's all about the hustle," he says, advocating for a proactive approach to client relations. Tune in to our latest episode to gain more insights from Fred Shurtz on building and sustaining a successful business in the water treatment industry. Don't miss out on this wealth of knowledge! Stay connected with us for more expert insights and strategies to scale up your water treatment business. Timestamps 01:00 - Trace Blackmore reminds you about this day in history and being a kid in love with NASA's space program 05:00 - Upcoming Events for Water Treatment Professionals 07:00 - Interview with Fred Shurtz, owner of Precision Chemical 50:40 - Lightning Round Questions 01:00:00 - Drop by Drop With James McDonald Quotes "Sales is never a quick process. The only way you can have a lasting sales relationship is to be honest, have a positive attitude, and hustle." - Fred Shurtz "When they say "no" they are saying I don't need you yet, but you stay with them because you never know when they will need some help. You need to stay persistent, patient, and keep calling." - Fred Shurtz "You need to find out what's important to them. You need to ask good questions and listen. You need to be attentive to their needs." - Fred Shurtz "You have to be their advocate, their helper. You need to build trust." - Fred Shurtz Connect with Fred Shurtz Phone: 812.455.7378 Email: [email protected] Website: precisionchem.com LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/fred-shurtz-7287b032/ linkedin.com/company/precision-chemical/ Links Mentioned The Hang July 11, 2024 AWT (Association of Water Technologies) The Rising Tide Mastermind Scaling UP! H2O Academy video courses Submit a Show Idea Books Mentioned Gambler: Secrets from a Life at Risk by Billy Walters Outlive: The Science and Art of Longevity by Peter Attia Drop By Drop with James In today's segment, I have a "What If" for you. What if the deaerator vent is closed completely? I mean there is no little puff of steam coming out of the vent at all. What is the purpose of the deaerator vent? How will it being completely closed impact your overall steam boiler system? Which parts will be impacted first? What will the short term and long term impacts be? How will this impact your chemical levels in the feedwater and boilers? Could the closed vent have any impact upon the condensate system? How did it get closed in the fir

We're excited to bring you insights from a recent interview with Tim Fulton, President of Small Business Matters, Vistage Chair Emeritus, and Executive Coach. Tim is a returning podcast guest and a favorite among our listeners, bringing his wealth of knowledge to help you attract and retain top talent in today's evolving job market. Labor Market Insights: Navigating the New Normal Tim starts by addressing a common observation: "Most business owners would tell you the labor market has improved over the past 12 months." This improvement is particularly notable for small and mid-sized companies. Businesses have adapted post-COVID, finding innovative ways to attract candidates from diverse backgrounds, different markets, and varying levels of education and skills. Flexibility is Key: Adapting to Workforce Needs A critical trend highlighted by Tim is the increasing need for flexibility. Companies are shifting from rigid work schedules to more adaptable models, such as offering hybrid work options and flexible hours. Tim emphasizes that the question shouldn't just be about remote vs. in-office work but rather, "Do I trust my employees?" This trust-based approach focuses on outcomes rather than the specific logistics of where and when the work is done. Embracing Modern Work Policies: Unlimited PTO and Remote Work Pre-COVID, concepts like unlimited Paid Time Off (PTO) and remote work were often dismissed. However, Tim believes that with the right employees, processes, and procedures, these policies can be effective across various businesses. The modern workforce, especially younger employees, highly values remote work options, making it a crucial aspect of job listings today. As Tim puts it, "Today ⅔ of employees are knowledge workers and work from home. The train has left the station, we are not going backward to office life as we knew it." Crafting Compelling Job Listings Job listings must reflect the current job market's demands. Tim suggests including clear expectations regarding work location, flexibility, and growth opportunities in the description and the job results in the job heading. Additionally, platforms like Indeed, LinkedIn, your own company's website, and local colleges/universities are excellent for reaching a diverse pool of candidates. Effective Interview Strategies: Finding the Right Fit During interviews, it's essential to assess if the candidate can perform the job, fit within your company culture, and work well with you. Tim advises using behavior assessments and post-hire evaluations to ensure you're making the right choice. Group interviews can be beneficial when you have multiple strong candidates, and using a scorecard can help in making objective decisions. Ensuring the Right Hire: Comprehensive Evaluation To confirm you've made the right hiring decision, involve various stakeholders in the hiring process, conduct thorough reference checks, and use behavioral assessments to gauge the candidate's fit within your team. Conclusion: Prepare to Transform Your Hiring Process Tune in to the latest episode of Scaling UP! H2O to dive deeper into these insights and more from Tim Fulton. This episode is packed with practical advice and actionable strategies that can transform your hiring process and help you secure top performers for your team. Timestamps 01:00 - Trace Blackmore asks you to submit your show ideas 04:00 - Upcoming Events for Water Treatment Professionals 08:15 - Interview with Tim Fulton 59:00 - Closing thoughts with Trace 1:06:25 - Drop by Drop With James McDonald Quotes "Most business owners would tell you the labor market has improved over the past 12 months." - Tim Fulton "When interviewing someone ask yourself: "Can they do the job, can they do it here, can they do the job with me?" - Tim Fulton "As a manager, you need to ask yourself: Do I want to manage someone's time or their work? Do I want to manage compliance or performance?" - Tim Fulton "Today, ⅔ of employees are knowledge workers and work from home. The train has left the station, we are not going backward." - Tim Fulton Connect with Tim Fulton Email: [email protected] LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/timcfulton/ Twitter: twitter.com/tf_sbm FaceBook: facebook.com/SmallBusinessMattersOnline/ Website: smallbusinessmattersonline.com Tim's Resources: Tim Fulton's Small Business Matters Podcast Small Business Matters Newsletter SBM Mastermind Group SBM Boot Camp Vistage Group Vistage Chair Executive Coach in Atlanta, GA, Tim Fulton Vistage Speaker Top Performer Award for 2023, Tim Fulton Links Mentioned The Hang July 11, 2024 at 6pm EST Ep 22 with Tim Fulton Ep 114 The One Where We Talk Masterminds Ep 280 The One About Retaining Top Talent Ep 353 Steam Boilers Essential Checks with Barry Higgins Part 1 Ep 354 Steam Boilers Essential Checks with Barry Higgins Part 2 The Rising Tide Mastermind Scaling UP! H2O Academy video courses Submit a Show Idea Books Mentioned Foolproof Hiring: Powerful, Proven Keys to Hiring H

Looking to maximize efficiency while minimizing shipping costs? Keen on shrinking your company's and clients' carbon footprint? Concerned about the complexities of transporting hazardous liquid materials? Picture this: You're tasked with moving a three-hundred-gallon tote of corrosives to the twelfth floor of an office building. Or perhaps you've encountered the challenge of maneuvering a two-hundred-pound tote across pristine mahogany floors, all while hoping against leaks on the way to the cooling tower. If these scenarios resonate with you, our latest episode is a must-listen! Join us as Blaine Nagao, CWT, Senior Director of Smart Release Technology at Dober, answers a multitude of questions about how solid technology works and how it differs from liquid technology. Blaine debunks old misconceptions about solid technologies. Learn how to match the right equipment with the products you're using and gain insight into controlling as many variables as possible upfront by adopting solid technology. Discover how solid technology can eliminate the need for hefty shipping fees, significantly reduce your carbon footprint, and save money for both your company and your clients. Tune in for an educational, insightful, and positive discussion that could revolutionize your bottom line. Understanding the Formula for Cost Savings with Solid Chemistry Technology Blaine explains that the cost savings from using solid chemistry technology come from several key areas: Reduced Shipping Costs Decreased Storage Space Requirements Lower Risk of Spills and Accidents Let's break these down: Reduced Shipping Costs Solid chemistry products are more concentrated than their liquid counterparts. This means you can ship smaller quantities, which reduces the overall shipping cost. For example: - Liquid product: 100 gallons (heavy, requires special handling) - Solid product: Equivalent treatment power in a smaller, lighter package Decreased Storage Space Requirements Solid products take up less space than liquid ones, meaning you can store more product in the same amount of space. This can lead to lower storage costs, especially in facilities where space is at a premium. Lower Risk of Spills and Accidents Handling liquids, especially hazardous ones, carries a significant risk of spills and accidents, which can be costly. Solids minimize this risk, leading to fewer incidents and lower associated costs. Blaine's Formula Blaine suggests considering the total cost of ownership rather than just the upfront cost. The formula he uses involves calculating the savings in the following areas: Total Savings = Savings in Shipping + Savings in Storage + Savings in Risk Management Let's put some hypothetical numbers into this formula to illustrate: Savings in Shipping: $500 per shipment Savings in Storage: $100 per month Savings in Risk Management: $150 per month Assuming these savings over a year: Annual Savings = ($500 \times 12) + ($100 \times 12) + ($150 \times 12) Annual Savings = $6,000 + $1,200 + $1,800 Annual Savings = $9,000 By switching to solid chemistry technology, the company could potentially save $9,000 annually. This example illustrates how the cumulative savings in different areas add up to significant cost reductions. Summary Solid chemistry technology offers significant cost savings by reducing shipping costs, storage space requirements, and risks associated with spills and accidents. By focusing on the total cost of ownership, as Blaine suggests, companies can see the broader financial benefits of transitioning to solid chemistry solutions. Timestamps 01:00 - Trace Blackmore asks you to share your future podcast show ideas with us by filling out the Submit a Show Idea form 03:15 - Come to The Hang on July 11th, a free online opportunity to connect with other water professionals 10:10 - Upcoming Events for Water Treatment Professionals 12:30 - Get to know Blaine Nagao, CWT 20:00 - Interview on Solid Technology 1:00:00 - Drop by Drop With James McDonald Quotes "Solid chemistry is good chemistry." - Blaine Nagao "Ask too many questions because the devil is in the details to find the right solution for your client." - Blaine Nagao "With water, you always need to think about Murphy's Law - anything that can go wrong, will go wrong." - Blaine Nagao "Pick the equipment that works, not the one that looks pretty. You should pick equipment that you can trust." - Blaine Nagao Connect with Blaine Nagao, CWT Phone: 817.913.8030 Email: [email protected] Website: www.dober.com LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/blaine-nagao-cwt-953822110/ linkedin.com/company/dober/ Read or Download Blaine Nagao's Press Release HERE Links Mentioned The Hang July 11, 2024 Ep 13.5 Convention Tips, How to get over social anxiety at networking events 106 The One with the Agnostic Equipment Guy Dober Smart Release Technology AquaPhoenix Hard Eight BBQ The Scaling UP! H2O Podcast Website The Rising Tide Mastermind Submit a Show Idea Drop By Drop with James In today's segment, I

Get ready to dive headfirst into the dynamic world of Produced Water as we kick off our inaugural episode dedicated to this captivating topic on the Scaling UP! H2O podcast. Join us on this thrilling expedition as we journey alongside our esteemed guest, Ivan Morales—a seasoned expert in water treatment and a beacon of innovation. With a passion for practical solutions and a knack for making complex concepts relatable, Ivan is here to guide us through the ins and outs of Produced Water management, making it accessible to all. In this groundbreaking episode, Ivan Morales, known for his contributions to Nalco Water, the International Water Conference (IWC), and the Produced Water Society, takes center stage to share his knowledge about Produced Water with a global audience of water professionals. Drawing from years of hands-on experience and a natural intuition for problem-solving, Ivan breaks down the barriers to understanding, offering practical insights and real-world examples. From navigating EPA regulations to tackling challenges in coal mining and fracking, we're in for an engaging and enlightening ride through the fascinating landscape of water treatment. What You'll Discover: Navigating EPA Regulations and Produced Water: Dive into the intricate realm of EPA guidelines governing the measurement and treatment of Produced Water. By understanding these regulations, we empower ourselves to ensure compliance and uphold environmental stewardship. Confronting Challenges in Coal Mines: Explore the unique hurdles faced by water professionals in coal mines, where the recycling and treatment of water are pivotal for maintaining safety standards and safeguarding downstream communities. Ivan underscores the imperative of returning water to the environment in an improved state. Embracing Innovation and Technological Advancements: Embark on a journey of discovery as we uncover cutting-edge technologies and collaborative initiatives revolutionizing Produced Water treatment. Ivan sheds light on the promising prospects of element extraction, such as lithium, and the ongoing innovations propelling our industry toward greater efficiency and sustainability. Episode Highlights: Empowerment through EPA Compliance: Gain actionable insights into navigating EPA regulations, fostering compliance, and contributing to environmental preservation through responsible water management practices. Community-Centric Water Stewardship: Learn how our efforts in coal mines directly impact downstream communities, and discover strategies for enhancing water quality to create a ripple effect of positive change. Innovative Solutions Driving Sustainability: Embark on a journey of innovation as we explore the transformative potential of emerging technologies and collaborative endeavors, propelling us toward a future of sustainable water management practices. Ivan delves into crucial topics such as managing PFAS contaminants, harnessing the potential of recycled water for sustainable practices, and the imperative of accurate measurement in water discharge. His insights into the challenges of treating water from fracking operations and the avenues for technological innovation are both enlightening and empowering. Join us as we embark on this enlightening exploration of Produced Water management, where knowledge is our compass, innovation is our vehicle, and positive change is our destination. Tune in to the latest episode of Scaling UP! H2O now, and let's journey together toward a future of sustainable water stewardship! Timestamps 01:00 - Trace Blackmore thanks you for participating in the Global 6K For Water this year. Thank you for helping to solve the global water crisis. 6:30 - Upcoming Events for Water Treatment Professionals 8:30 - Interview with Ivan Morales about Produced Water 48:00 - Drop by Drop With James McDonald 49:30 - Please leave a review of this podcast on your favorite podcast player Quotes "Produced Water can range anywhere from 1,000 to 380,000 ppm TDS, presenting a vast range of challenges and opportunities to navigate." - Ivan Morales "Whenever we attempt to return water to the ground, the EPA provides the essential framework for doing so responsibly." - Ivan Morales "In the coal mining industry, it's crucial to ensure that all the water we extract is returned in better condition because downstream communities rely on it." - Ivan Morales "Go to the source to understand what is out there. Many people are working together to create a better world, and there is a lot of good news in the Produced Water industry!" - Ivan Morales Connect with Ivan Morales Website: www.ecolab.com/nalco-water/ LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/ivan-morales-mba-06793b5/ linkedin.com/company/nalco/ linkedin.com/company/produced-water-society-inc/ linkedin.com/showcase/intlwaterconf/ Affiliations: International Water Conference (IWC), Executive Board Member Produced Water Society, Board of Directors Read or Download Ivan Morales' Press Release HERE Links Ment

AI won't take your job but knowing how to use it will give you an edge over others who don't. - Beth Ziesenis Hello Scaling UP! H2O community! We have a treat for you in this episode! Our favorite nerdy friend, Beth Ziesenis (a.k.a. Your Nerdy Best Friend), is back on the podcast to sprinkle her magic tech dust on all things AI! 🎉 You might have spent hours Googling tech tips or demoing tools to find the perfect solution for your needs—but now you can skip the headache and just ask Beth! She's here to break down complex AI concepts into bite-sized tips that can help you personally and professionally. AI in Action: In this episode, Beth shares: Her favorite AI tools for work and personal use. How to harness AI for meeting summaries and transcriptions Insights into AI integration in office software The magic of AI for data analysis in water treatment and scientific research. Tips for Building AI Guardrails: Beth knows AI can seem daunting, so she provides guidance on creating a strong AI policy for your workplace. She touches on essential training, data usage guidelines, and the importance of checks and balances to ensure AI serves you effectively and ethically. Beth's Takeaway: AI isn't here to take your job; it's here to give you an edge over those who don't adapt. Whether you're an AI skeptic or an enthusiastic early adopter, understanding how AI can enhance your work will give you a leg up! Ready to Scale UP your AI knowledge? Tune in to this lively episode and let Beth guide you through the exciting world of AI with humor and insight. Don't miss out—your AI journey starts here! Cheers, The Scaling UP! H2O Team Timestamps 01:00 - Trace Blackmore extends his gratitude to you, our listeners, for helping us reach the top 2.5% of all podcasts worldwide 06:30 - Upcoming Events for Water Treatment Professionals 10:00 - Interview with Your Nerdy Best Friend, Beth Ziesenis 1:00:00 - Drop by Drop with James McDonald Quotes "On November 30, 2022, a company called Open AI released ChatGPT. It was the fastest growing platform and sometimes it lies and breaks down because y'all broke it." - Beth Ziesenis Connect with Beth Ziesenis Phone: 619.231.9225 Email: [email protected] Website: yournerdybestfriend.com LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/nerdybff linkedin.com/company/nerdybff Your Nerdy Best Friend Blog Read or Download Beth Ziesenis' Press Release HERE Links Mentioned 318 Boilers: Handling the Heat and Pressure Like Pros 041 The One with Your Nerdy Best Friend AI Cheatsheet: Guidelines for AI Use at Work A to Z AI Tools for Associations and Their Members The Tackle Your Tech To-Do List Card Deck Hattie B's Nashville Hot Chicken James McDonald's Star Trek episodes, VSF Blessings - A Star Trek Fan Production The Rising Tide Mastermind Scaling UP! H2O Academy video courses Submit a Show Idea AWT (Association of Water Technologies) Books Mentioned Futureproof: 9 Rules for Surviving in the Age of AI by Kevin Roose Future Proof: Reinventing Work in the Age of Acceleration by Diana Wu David Drop By Drop with James In today's segment, we are thinking, "What if?" What if you sneak into your customer account, quietly do your service, and sneak out without seeing anyone? What if? You were quick, efficient, got the job done, and got out so you can rush off to your next account. What could be wrong with that? Hmmm. Think about that for just a moment. First, what about safety? If no one knew you were there, what if something happened in the facility. Would they know to look for you? What if you got hurt? Second, does the customer see value in NOT seeing you? I hope not. How does the customer know you actually performed the service instead of just making the report up out of thin air? There are so many positives that come from making your face seen and showing the value of you being there. Visit with the operators and buying influencers. Show that you care and are invested in the success of their water treatment program. 2024 Events for Water Professionals Check out our Scaling UP! H2O Events Calendar where we've listed every event Water Treaters should be aware of by clicking HERE.

We have the technology to treat any type of water, so instead of focusing on 'water scarcity,' let's talk about 'water abundance'. - Walid Khoury In the latest episode of the Scaling UP! H2O podcast, we explore how to shift the narrative from "Water Scarcity" to "Water Abundance" with returning guest Walid Khoury, President and CEO of Desalytics. Walid's global perspective on water technology and treatment options provides invaluable insights for water professionals, industry owners, policymakers, and anyone interested in addressing global water challenges. Here are five strategies Walid provides to guide your thinking from the challenges of water scarcity toward the possibilities of water abundance: Embrace Long-Term Thinking and Planning: When addressing water issues or exploring new opportunities, consider both the mid- and long-term impacts. This approach is especially crucial in developing markets where sustainable growth and solutions are essential. Collaborate with Private Industry, Politicians, and Individuals to Achieve SDG 6: While one person cannot change the world, thousands working toward a shared goal can. Walid discusses the vital role these groups play in achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 6 (SDG 6), which aims to ensure safe and affordable drinking water, sanitation, and hygiene for all. Integrate Innovative Technologies: Embrace the innovative aspects of the water industry by implementing modern technologies and techniques. For instance, Hong Kong began using saltwater in toilets in the 1950s due to a scarcity of freshwater. Today, around 80% of toilets in Hong Kong use saltwater for flushing, which conserves fresh drinking water. Industrial water treaters can harness these advancements to enhance their practices and assist clients in achieving a "water positive" status, surpassing the goal of being "water-neutral." Advocate and Communicate Effectively: Promote water positivity by using language that raises awareness of the options available. Building connections and collaborating with local partners can help address local water challenges more effectively. Expand Your Global Understanding: Walid encourages industrial water treaters to expand their knowledge and experience beyond familiar markets by attending international water conferences and exploring global opportunities. By tuning in to this one-hour episode, you will gain actionable insights and practical knowledge on how to contribute to water abundance, reshape water management strategies, and make a positive impact on both local and global scales. Walid's involvement in the Water Positive Think Tank and his dedication to SDG 6 offers a roadmap for those looking to advance their careers and make a meaningful difference in the water industry. Listen to "364 Water Abundance: A Global Perspective on Water Technology and Treatment Options" and discover how you can be part of the change toward a more sustainable and water-efficient future. Don't miss this opportunity to hear from one of the industry's most innovative and influential voices! Timestamps 01:00 - Trace Blackmore invites you to participate in the Global 6K for Water 05:00 - Upcoming Events for Water Treatment Professionals 7:30 - Get to know Walid Khoury of Desalytics 22:00 - Interview with Walid Khoury on Water Abundance 57:40 - Drop by Drop with James McDonald Quotes with interview timestamps: "My biggest frustration in our industry is that we use the word 'water scarcity', but in today's age we have the technology to treat any type of water, so instead of water scarcity we should be talking about 'water abundance'." - Walid Khoury "We need to shift the narrative: We have an abundance of water. The question is, how can we effectively use and consume it locally rather than sourcing it from afar?" - Walid Khoury "We have access to a wealth of technologies; the key is in applying them effectively. This makes it an exceptional time to be in the water industry." - Walid Khoury Connect with Walid Khoury: Phone: +971 56 5362147 Email: [email protected] LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/walidkhoury linkedin.com/company/desalytics Think Tank: https://www.linkedin.com/company/water_positive/ Vlog: walidkhoury.com Links Mentioned Scaling UP! H2O's Free Legionella Resources Page Upcoming Events for Water Professionals May 18, 2024 The Global 6K for water Episode 230 with Walid Khoury 2024 WEFTEC conference The Rising Tide Mastermind Scaling UP! H2O Academy video courses Tools Mentioned NALCO Water Handbook ChatGPT Complexity.AI Drop By Drop with James Do you know what I like to do sometimes? Do you? I like to read the summary of methods and the interferences for water testing. I do! You should hang out at parties with me, I'm a real riot. Anyway, there is a LOT to be learned by just reading these two sections of a test procedure. For example, did you know the FerroVer method for Total Iron "converts all soluble iron and most insoluble forms of iron in the sample to

"Dogs and prospects can smell fear." - Casey Brown Are you struggling with pricing your products and services confidently? Do you fear presenting proposals to clients and dealing with objections? Are you unsure how to have effective conversations around price increases? If these questions sound familiar, you're going to love today's episode featuring Casey Brown, founder of Boost Pricing. Boost Pricing has the singular goal of helping organizations get paid well for their excellence, and in this informative conversation, Casey shares invaluable insights on how to elevate your pricing game and communicate your value effectively to your customers. Sales is challenging, and as someone who's been in the industry, you know how tough it can be. There's pressure to be personable, negotiate well, and ask the right questions, yet proposals still get rejected. So, how do you get paid well for your company's superior products and services? In this episode, Casey provides practical tips, strategies, and tactics to boost your pricing confidence and navigate price negotiations successfully. Learn how to deal with customers who focus solely on price and how to differentiate your value proposition effectively. Casey emphasizes the importance of handling client objections well, sharing "The best answer to an objection isn't an answer at all, it's a question. I think questions are a salesperson's superpower and they are largely underused in the price portion and the negotiation process." She goes on to say "The root of confidence is value. You need to truly understand how your products and service are of value to your customer." By tuning in, you'll gain insights on: Approaching conversations about pricing with confidence and clarity. Understanding when and how to offer tiered packages to customers. Communicating the value of your offerings to clients to justify your prices. Navigating tricky situations like price match requests and objections. Casey's wisdom on pricing and negotiation will empower you to become more confident in your sales approach. Don't miss out on this educational discussion! Timestamps 01:00 - Trace Blackmore invites you to participate in the Global 6K 07:00 - Interview with Casey Brown founder of Pricing Boost 1:01:30 - Lightning round questions 1:10:00 - Drop by Drop With James McDonald Key Quotes from Casey Brown "I think sales is the hardest job in a company. Selling is an incredibly hard profession." - Casey Brown "Dogs and prospects can smell fear." - Casey Brown "The root of confidence is value. You need to truly understand how your products and services are of value to your customer." - Casey Brown "'No' is the most powerful word in a sales person's vocabulary, and often the most underused." - Casey Brown "A price match request is an objective statement of preference from the customer for your company." - Casey Brown Connect with Casey Brown Phone: 614.679.7999 Email: [email protected] Website: boostpricing.com LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/caseybrownboost/ linkedin.com/company/boostpricing/ Read or Download Casey Brown's Press Release HERE Read or Download Casey Brown's Discussion Guide HERE Links Mentioned The Rising Tide Mastermind Scaling UP! H2O Academy video courses Submit a Show Idea AWT (Association of Water Technologies) Books Mentioned Outlive: The Science and Art of Longevity by Peter Attia MD Make The Noise Go Away: The Power Of An Effective Second-In-Command by Larry G. Linne 10x Is Easier Than 2x by Dan Sullivan Drop By Drop with James In today's segment, we're thinking about a line I read in an article called "AWT Recommendations and Guidelines for Corrosion Coupons in Cooling Systems" found under Resources in the Members-Only section of the Association of Water Technologies website. This section of the article was discussing the proper order of installation for corrosion coupons. The line said, "In reality, if an appropriate water treatment program is in place, the actual coupon order will make little or no difference to the results." That line made my brain stop for a minute. The actual order will make little or no difference to results if an appropriate water treatment program is in place? Hold up! I've had the galvanic series drilled into my head for corrosion coupons! The most active or least noble metal or alloy must be placed first…the farthest upstream. What kind of crazy talk is this? Of course, in a perfect world, we wouldn't do a lot of things. The article goes on to explain further, though. It says, "There is an argument for limiting the number of factors to be considered when analyzing results, and if the coupons are installed according to the galvanic series, any high loss rates will not be blamed on or associated with galvanic differences (regardless of whether these could our could not impact results)." So to keep things logical and free of noise that may only confuse the issue, we should continue to install corrosion coupons according to the galvanic series, rega

"Achieving a well with reliable water quality and supply requires a significant amount of effort and work" - Mike Taraszki In this engaging episode of Scaling UP! H2O, hydrogeologist Mike Taraszki delves into California's Process Memo 97-005, a key resource for direct potable water use from extremely impaired sources. If you're eager to learn about the criteria and steps outlined in Process Memo 97-005 and how to keep your water permits current, this episode provides all the details you need. Mike examines the nationwide impact of 97-005 on potable water and shares his expertise in hydrogeologic principles for environmental investigation and remediation projects. He also highlights trends in potable groundwater, including managing PFAS, water recycling, desalination, and the removal of contaminants and microplastics. Offering practical guidance on the evolving landscape of water treatment technologies, Mike emphasizes the importance of consistent monitoring and adapting treatment trends to address emerging contaminants. His insights equip listeners with a comprehensive understanding of today's water challenges. "Putting a well in the ground and getting as much water as you want anywhere is just not reasonable, whether it's from a water supply or quality standpoint," Mike notes. He stresses, "We keep discovering new contaminants, and our water supply options are becoming more limited and constrained." Join Trace and Mike for a captivating discussion that will deepen your understanding of the complexities and potential of groundwater management. Don't miss this chance to expand your knowledge and stay ahead in the dynamic world of water treatment in under an hour! Timestamps 01:00 - Trace Blackmore invites you to solve the Global Water Crisis by joining the Global 6K for Water this year. Learn more at ScalingUpH2O.com/6K 04:10 - Upcoming Events for Water Treatment Professionals 10:00 - Interview with Mike Taraszki, passionate hydrogeologist about Process Memo 97-005 45:00 - You never know the ripple effect when you share about your water career with others 52:00- Drop by Drop With James McDonald Connect with Mike Taraszki Phone: 510.368.4549 Email: [email protected] Website: www.wsp.com LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/michaeltaraszki/ linkedin.com/company/wsp/ Proces Memo 97-005 Policy Resources Process Memo 97-005-R2020 Process Memo 97-005-R2020 User Guide Applicability of Process Memorandum 97-005 Examples of Checklists Links Mentioned Global 6K For Water 347 Ripple Effect: How Utah's Water Strategies Impact Us All 356 Unlocking the Future: Collaborative Water Management National Groundwater Association California's Groundwater Resources Association (CLU-IN) Contaminated Site Clean-Up Information (ITRC) Interstate Technology and Regulatory Council Audible The Rising Tide Mastermind Scaling UP! H2O Academy video courses Submit a Show Idea Drop By Drop with James In today's segment, I have a "what if" for you. What if the cooling tower's blowdown stopped flowing? There is no more blowdown going down the drain. Period. First, what could cause this to happen? What could cause a valve to fail closed? What could block the blowdown line? What setting could have been changed in the controller? Second, what would be the impact upon the cooling tower system next? Would the impact be quick or slow? What would the water start to look like? What data in the cooling water system would start to change and in what direction? How could you have detected this problem early and been alerted that action was required? 2024 Events for Water Professionals Check out our Scaling UP! H2O Events Calendar where we've listed every event Water Treaters should be aware of by clicking HERE or using the dropdown menu.

"I have never regretted having too much data when collecting a sample." - Trace Blackmore In this insightful episode of Scaling UP! H2O, join your host Trace Blackmore as he helps water professionals scale up their water testing knowledge, addressing listener questions and providing invaluable expertise for water treatment professionals. Water testing stands as a cornerstone of effective water treatment, and Trace serves as your guide through this vital terrain. With a wealth of expertise, he addresses listener questions, offering invaluable insights to elevate the practices of water treatment professionals. Trace's guidance spans essential topics, from analyzing water samples to deciphering past data and ensuring the precision of collected samples. His pragmatic approach unveils indispensable tips for securing quality samples, choosing suitable tests for labs, and mastering sample preparation techniques. Listeners will find clarity on concepts such as grab and composite samples, quantitative versus qualitative analysis, and the pivotal role of lab procedures in securing accurate results. Trace's exploration extends to the comparison between tests conducted with test kits versus labs, alongside illuminating insights into specialized tests like Legionella testing and titration manipulation. Through engaging dialogue and expert advice, Trace underscores the significance of meticulous data collection and adherence to lab protocols. This episode serves as a catalyst for water professionals, empowering them to refine their testing methodologies and optimize water treatment strategies. Join Trace Blackmore on this enlightening expedition into the realm of water testing, where every lesson learned enhances practical expertise, and every insight gained fuels professional growth. Tune in to Scaling UP! H2O, and let's scale up our knowledge together. Timestamps 01:00 - Upcoming Events for Water Treatment Professionals 08:00 - Trace Blackmore answers listener questions about Testing on this informative Pinks and Blues episode 40:00 - Drop by Drop With James McDonald Quotes "It's not just collecting samples, it's about collecting data around those samples. I always take a picture of what I'm taking the scale off of and what is around it. I reference the photos so that when I get the report back, I can do more analysis." - Trace Blackmore "I have never regretted having too much data when collecting a sample." - Trace Blackmore "Collect all the data that you can, when you can." - Trace Blackmore "Learn what your lab needs from you before sending them your samples, and follow your lab's procedures. The procedures are there to help you." - Trace Blackmore Connect with Scaling UP! H2O Email Producer: [email protected] Submit a show idea: Submit a Show Idea LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/traceblackmore/ YouTube: @ScalingUpH2O Links Mentioned Global 6K for Water 244 The One About Water Treaters For Clean Water (with Steve Spear) 294 The One About Getting Involved so the Profession Can Grow (with John A. Mullen) 348 Credentials and Codes: Plumbing Strategies Against Legionella (with Christoph Lohr) Blackmore Enterprises, Inc. Testing Services Scaling UP! H2O's Legionella Resources Page The Rising Tide Mastermind Scaling UP! H2O Academy video courses Submit a Show Idea AWT (Association of Water Technologies) Drop By Drop with James In today's segment, I have another challenge for you. Today's challenge is…draw a process flow diagram for your water systems. Having a good process flow diagram will help both you and your customer. The exercise may correct some assumptions you have or open your eyes to challenges you never knew existed. Be sure to include chemical feed points, water meters, blowdown lines, valves, waste streams, pretreatment equipment, pretreatment equipment waste streams, boilers, cooling towers, chillers, closed loops, dead legs, pressure and temperature gauge locations, pH probes, controllers, heat exchangers, makeup lines, outfalls, and whatever else you may run across. Feel free to make notes about frequency of equipment rotation, flow rates, temperatures, pressures, etc. Lastly, hand-drawn diagrams can be just fine because ANY process flow diagram has got to be better than NO process flow diagram, right? No need to get fancy if that will just slow you down and prevent you from making process flow diagrams in the first place. 2024 Events for Water Professionals Check out our Scaling UP! H2O Events Calendar where we've listed every event Water Treaters should be aware of by clicking HERE or using the dropdown menu.

Ready to uncover how to win RFPs, boost profits, and make a tangible positive impact – all while championing sustainability in your industry? Discover how to demystify sustainability and align your company's practices with environmental, social, and economic goals in the latest episode of Scaling UP! H2O. Host Trace Blackmore sits down with Andy Reimink, CEO of HOH Water Technology, Inc., to explore practical strategies for water professionals to embrace sustainability. Learn how small changes in energy efficiency, understanding sustainability scopes, and having sustainability data on hand can give your company a competitive edge in RFPs. Discover the economic benefits of environmental stewardship, including tax advantages and improved ROI. With insights from Andy's presentation at the AWT convention, uncover actionable tips for retaining younger employees by showcasing your company's positive impact on the world. Whether you're a seasoned professional or new to the industry, this episode offers valuable tools to enhance your company's sustainability outlook and drive long-term success. Join the conversation and discover how sustainability isn't just a buzzword—it's a pathway to a more resilient and prosperous future for your company and the planet. Tune in now to start making a difference! Timestamps 01:00 - Earth Day 2024 and Upcoming Events for Water Treatment Professionals 9:00 - Interview with Andy Reimink, Chief Executive Officer at HOH Water Technology 01:03:45 - Drop by Drop With James McDonald Quotes "Our clients, whether we know it or not, care about our sustainability because it affects their bottomline or reputation." - Andy Reimink "Publicly traded companies have RFPs (Request for Proposal), but it's going to become commonplace for smaller water treatment companies. I expect it to grow in intensity." - Andy Reimink "Data centers have a lot of pressure to be as sustainable as possible." - Andy Reimink Connect with Andy Reimink Phone: 616.901.9769 Email: [email protected] Website: hohwatertechnology.com LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/andy-reimink-a7711711/ linkedin.com/company/h-o-h-water-technology-inc-/ Links Mentioned EarthDay.org What are Scopes 1, 2 and 3 of Carbon Emissions? LEED Exam Preparation and Continuing Education Sense Energy Monitoring System TED TALK: (how to wash and dry your hands) How to use one paper towel | Joe Smith 122 The One with Reid Hutchison 123 The Other One with Reid Hutchison 127 The One With Tom Hutchison 236 The One Where We Talk About Waters Treaters Changing The World 287 The One About How To Create Aligned Employee Engagement 358 Safety First: Practical Tips, Big Results in Water Treatment The Rising Tide Mastermind Scaling UP! H2O Academy video courses AWT (Association of Water Technologies) Books Mentioned Never Split The Difference by Chris Voss Greenlights by Matthew McConaughey The Dream Manager: Achieve Results Beyond Your Dreams by Helping Your Employees Fulfill Theirs by Matthew Kelly The Psychology of Money: Timeless lessons on wealth, greed, and happiness by Morgan Housel Drop By Drop with James In today's episode, we're asking ourself, "What If?" What if the acid feed stops working on a cooling tower? What happens if suddenly there is no acid being fed to a cooling tower on an acid-control program? Does something happen immediately? Does something happen gradually? Where within the system could this something happen? How long could this lack of acid feed occur before anyone would find out? How could you determine remotely that the acid feed had stopped working? What alarms could be setup? Once the problem has been determined, should the acid feed be turned back on immediately? Could turning the acid feed back on immediately cause any problems within the system? What should be communicated to the end user about this occurrence? What could be done to prevent it from happening again? Should blowdown be adjusted during the response to the lack of acid feed? How might the other water treatment chemicals be impacted due to the lack of acid? A cooling tower's water treatment program is an expertly-balanced chemistry. If one part is negatively impacted, it may very well impact the other parts of the chemistry as well. There's a lot to think about when just one part goes wrong. Knowing the root cause will help prevent you from chasing your tail when trying to get the program back under control. 2024 Events for Water Professionals Check out our Scaling UP! H2O Events Calendar where we've listed every event Water Treaters should be aware of by clicking HERE or using the dropdown menu.

Visualization helps water professionals better understand equipment, processes, and problem-solving techniques Often, as water professionals, we breeze past the intricate inner workings of the equipment we handle, missing out on valuable insights that could enhance our understanding and effectiveness. But what if we took a moment to visualize what's happening inside that cooling tower? Through the simple act of visualization, we can unlock a whole new perspective on the systems we work with, gaining profound insights into their operation. Step into the fascinating world of industrial water treatment with host Trace Blackmore and special lab partner, James McDonald as they embark on a remarkable journey through the heart of a cooling tower. Shrinking down into water molecules, they vividly visualize the processes at play, offering a captivating glimpse into the complex world of water treatment. James McDonald, Director of Technology & Marketing at Chem-Aqua, founder of Industrial Water Week, and weekly contributor to the Scaling UP! H2O podcast, shares his profound insights into the importance of creativity and visualization in engineering. By harnessing these tools, water professionals can deepen their understanding, sharpen their problem-solving skills, and foster better communication within the industry. Join us for this enlightening discussion and discover how visualization techniques can revolutionize your approach to industrial water treatment. Let's unlock the full potential of our creativity and imagination, together shaping a brighter future for water professionals everywhere. Timestamps 01:00 - Trace Blackmore shares fun facts about the IRS during this tax return season 05:30 - Upcoming Events for Water Treatment Professionals 13:30 - Interview with James McDonald, CWT, about the importance of visualizing systems 33:09 - Shrinking down and going inside a cooling tower 01:06:00 - Drop by Drop With James McDonald 01:08:00 - The power of visualization Quotes "I like doing visual exercises because it teaches me the gaps in my knowledge so I can learn about those ideas." - James McDonald "It serves as an excellent learning tool, offering a dynamic approach to problem-solving by providing a visual representation of the situation." - James McDonald Connect with Scaling UP! H2O Email Producer: [email protected] Submit a show idea: Submit a Show Idea LinkedIn: in/traceblackmore/ YouTube: @ScalingUpH2O Connect with James McDonald Website: www.chemaqua.com Industrial Water Week: www.industrialwaterscience.com Read James' Industrial Water Week Jokes and Comics at www.industrialwaterscience.com/fun LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/james-mcdonald-pe www.linkedin.com/company/chem-aqua Read or Download James McDonald's Press Release HERE Links Mentioned How Cooling Towers Operate Water Softener Regeneration Process Understanding Cycles of Concentration Global 6K for water Episode 21 The One with James McDonald Episode 49 The One with James McDonald, Again Episode 113 Pinks and Blues (with James McDonald) Episode 290 The One About Making Time For What Matters Most (with James McDonald) Episode 291 The One About Nitrite (with James McDonald) Episode 31 The One with Mark Lewis Episode 34 The Other One With Mark Lewis, CWT Episode 112 The One Where Trace Is Interviewed By Mark Lewis Industrial Water Week Resources Water Cake Recipe Episode 161 Trace shared a story about the koi fish in the cooling tower Sharknado Series Die Hard Series Criminal Minds The Rising Tide Mastermind AWT (Association of Water Technologies) Drop By Drop with James Today we're thinking about safety. Working around steam, hot water, high pressures, moving parts, confined spaces, hazardous chemicals, pathogenic organisms, extreme environments, deep water, and even people, there are hundreds of ways we could get hurt or worse every single day. Of course, there are guidelines, regulations, laws, safety programs, engineering controls, training, and so forth to help keep us safe, but the ultimate thing in charge of our safety day to day is ourselves. If we don't follow the rules, learn from the trainings, are unaware of our surroundings, and/or circumvent engineering controls, we are much more likely to get hurt. So be both smart and aware when you are performing your industrial water treatment duties. You're probably NOT the only one relying upon you returning home safely. A personal example of when I encountered an unsafe condition is from when I was brand new in industrial water treatment and was being trained on boiler inspections. My manager and I were just about to enter the mud drum of a watertube boiler when steam started coming out of the manhole. My manager and the plant manager both looked at each other and were a little white in the face. An operator had blowndown one of the nearby boilers, and steam had backed up into the one we were literally just about to enter. If we had climbed in just a little sooner, we could have suf

Did you know that integrating safety practices into your organization's culture can lead to significant improvements in employee engagement and overall performance? Step into the world of safety excellence alongside two industry leaders, Michael Highum and Reid Hutchison, in this enriching episode of the Scaling UP! H2O Podcast. As seasoned experts in their respective fields, Michael and Reid bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to the table, making this conversation a must-listen for anyone seeking to enhance their understanding of safety practices in the water treatment industry. With over two decades of experience in insurance, Michael Highum is no stranger to the intricacies of risk management. As a partner at McGowan Insurance Group, he has played a pivotal role in providing businesses with tailored insurance solutions and strategic risk management advice. His insights into the importance of leading by example and fostering a culture of safety within organizations are invaluable. Reid Hutchison, the COO of HOH Water Technology, Inc., carries on a proud family legacy in the water treatment sector. With a lineage that spans three generations, Reid brings a deep understanding of the industry's nuances and challenges. His emphasis on proactive safety measures, team engagement, and the integration of safety practices into organizational culture resonates throughout the episode. In this educational and uplifting discussion, Michael and Reid share practical tips, real-life anecdotes, and actionable strategies for enhancing safety practices in water treatment facilities. From the significance of starting small and being proactive to the crucial role of continual improvement, listeners will gain valuable insights into building a robust safety culture that safeguards businesses and empowers teams. Whether you're a seasoned professional or a newcomer to the industry, this episode offers a wealth of knowledge and inspiration to help you scale up your safety game. Join Michael Highum and Reid Hutchison on this enlightening journey towards safety excellence and discover how you can create a safer, more resilient future for your organization. Tune in now to Scaling UP! H2O Podcast and embark on your path to safety success with insights from two industry expert guides! Timestamps 00:01 - Trace Blackmore shares what it means to be a CWT and where to find FREE Industrial Water Week and Legionella Resources 04:00- Upcoming Events for Water Treatment Professionals 08:00 - Introducing returning guests Michael Highum and Reid Hutchison 14:40 - Interview with Michael Highum and Reid Hutchison on the Water Treater's Blindspot, Safety 59:00 - Drop by Drop With James McDonald Quotes "Safety isn't compliance, an afterthought, or a box you check, you need to find ways to make it relevant to the team to get the attention and engagement it deserves." - Reid Hutchison "If you're excited about growing your business, begin to put some thought into how you're going to grow the culture around safety in your company. As you grow and scale whatever vulnerabilities, weaknesses, or issues grow as well." - Reid Hutchison "Talk about the WHY - it's about truly developing a team where you care about each other. Employees watch leadership and when they see leaders take initiative on wanting to protect the team, it shows what the leadership cares about - safety. Safely for each and every person and ensuring they go home safely as possible." - Michael Highum "Safety. It takes time and effort, but you've got to start somewhere. The need is not going away. There's no better time than today to start the safety process. It's not just employee safety, it's customer site issues, employee injury, vehicles - it's up to leadership to enable and empower people." - Michael Highum "Lead by example. No matter where you are in the organization, you are responsible and accountable to each other." - Michael Highum Connect with Michael Highum Phone: 317.490.2322 Email: [email protected] Website: www.mcgowaninsgrp.com LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/michaelhighum www.linkedin.com/company/mcgowan-insurance-group Connect with Reid Hutchison Phone: 847.702.1708 Email: [email protected] Website: hohwatertechnology.com LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/reid-h-3a329431 www.linkedin.com/company/h-o-h-water-technology-inc- Links Mentioned CWT Prep Course Industrial Water Week Resources Legionella Resources Page 025 The One On Insurance with Mike 107 Day 2 Of Industrial Water Week (Boilers) with Reid 107 Day 5 Of Industrial Water Week (Careers) with Mike 122 The One with Reid Hutchison 123 The Other One with Reid Hutchison 236 The One Where We Talk About Waters Treaters Changing The World with Reid 287 The One About How To Create Aligned Employee Engagement with Reid McGowan - Advisory & Compliance Services McGowan - Risk Solutions How Alcoa quintupled their revenue by focusing on worker safety The Rising Tide Mastermind Scaling UP! H2O Academy vid

How does a high school dropout go on to earn a Ph.D. from the University Of Iowa and become the host of one of Apple Podcast's Top 15 shows on Management? Dr. Andrew Temte's mission is to Teach, Coach, Mentor, and Inspire, and today, the Scaling UP! H2O podcast is honored to feature him. In this transformative interview, Andrew discusses the foundational elements of building company culture, emphasizing that it starts with leadership. He shares valuable insights on why companies should prioritize defining their purpose before diving into marketing strategies. Additionally, Andrew explores the concept of leadership as stewardship and offers guidance on identifying core values while ensuring that everyone's voice is heard and valued. Discover the Value of People in Business: Emphasizing the importance of supporting and empowering employees, the conversation delves into how people are the most valuable asset in any organization. The need for leaders to embrace diversity of thought and opinion to create a culture where every voice is valued is highlighted. Explore Leadership Mindset: The transition from directive to non-directive leadership styles is discussed, emphasizing the importance of fostering an environment where diverse perspectives are welcomed and respected. Embrace a Stewardship Mindset: Advocating for adopting a stewardship mindset as a leader, the discussion focuses on the long-term success of both the business and its people, rather than personal power or ego. Learn about Compassionate Leadership: The concept of compassionate leadership is explored, which involves empathizing with employees and taking proactive steps to address their needs and concerns. Key Takeaway: Discover the importance of purpose and adopting a stewardship mindset, especially in cross-generational leadership, as highlighted in this insightful conversation. Everyone knows what it's like to work for a horrible boss, but what could your life look like if you had a great boss - one who viewed you as the greatest asset in the company, ensured everyone's voice was heard, and lived out the company values in their daily lives. A leader with empathy is what every team wants. If you're eager to enhance your leadership skills and empower yourself and your team in the water industry, join us to uncover essential insights on making your team flourish, regardless of the challenges you may face. Timestamps 01:00 - Trace Blackmore welcomes you to the second quarter of 2024, a good time to review your goals and make a plan for the next quarter 07:00 - The Hang is coming up April 11, 2024 and Upcoming Events for Water Treatment Professionals 12:30 - Interview with Dr. Andrew Temte 48:00 - Lightning round questions 59:00 - Drop by Drop With James McDonald Quotes "Values and behaviors go together like peanut butter and jelly. Values are the nouns that you are creating for the overall structure of what you want your business to be. Behaviors are the verbs, they are the actions, they are the 'how' we should show up each day in the business. Don't shy away from that work, engage in that work, and pay it the attention that it's due." - Dr. Andrew Temte "Far too many leaders leave the business world and take all of their accumulated knowledge with them; maybe it gets disseminated to a small group of folks, maybe they do a little teaching and coaching on the side. I wanted to do something much bigger than that. I wanted to reach a much larger potential audience." - Dr. Andrew Temte "Go to the Gemba - where the work happens and how teams interact. Listen to the people who interact with your customers. Set your ego aside and go to where the work happens, and listen to where the work is going on." - Dr. Andrew Temte "As a leader, you need to create clarity. Clarity for everybody involved: your customers, your vendors, your people, your investors, your stakeholders." - Dr. Andrew Temte "As a compassionate leader, you need to hear the successes and the pain points across the organization." - Dr. Andrew Temte "Compassionate leadership is Empathy + Willingness and the ability to do something about it. You are putting yourself into the shoes of your people, and you are pledging to make their work better." - Dr. Andrew Temte Connect with Andrew Temte Phone: 608.385.9050 Email: [email protected] Website: www.andrewtemte.com LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/atemte Links Mentioned Skills Owl Add a link to Andy's podcast show, The Balancing Act Podcast Listen to Episode 109 of The Balancing Act Podcast with Trace Blackmore HERE Podify Episode 4 with Charlie Cichetti The Rising Tide Mastermind Scaling UP! H2O Academy video courses Submit a Show Idea AWT (Association of Water Technologies) Books Mentioned The Balanced Business: Building Organizational Trust and Accountability through Smooth Workflows by Andrew Temte Balancing Act: Teach Coach Mentor Inspire by Andrew Temte The 12 Week Year: Get More Done in 12 Weeks than Others Do in 12 Months by Brian P. Moran and M

Collaborate strategically, embrace AI innovations, and champion data access, and scale up your knowledge to conquer industry challenges. - Dragan Savić FREng On this episode of Scaling UP! H2O, we're diving into the future of water management with our distinguished guest, Dragan Savić FREng, the CEO of and Professor of Hydroinformatics at the KWR Water Research Institute. With over 30 years of experience in numerical optimization and AI tools, Dragan Savić has been a driving force in reshaping the water sector. As an engineer and the leader of KWR, he's at the forefront of collaborative efforts, bringing together computer scientists, water technologists, and PhD students to tackle real-world water challenges. What you'll learn: Collaborative Mastery: In this episode, learn the first secret of successful water professionals – collaboration. Dragan Savić shares how collaborating with diverse experts, including computer scientists and environmentalists, can unleash your collaborative superpower. Be the hero who bridges gaps and solves water industry challenges through the strength of working on challenging problems together. AI Innovations: Explore how numerical optimization and AI tools like evolutionary computing and genetic algorithms can be your allies in designing resilient water systems for the future. As a Professor of Hydroinformatics, Dragan unveils his in-depth knowledge of AI tools, including numerical optimization, evolutionary computing, and genetic algorithms. Learn how these technologies have been harnessed to solve real-world challenges, offering practical insights for professionals navigating the complexities of water infrastructure. Championing Data Access: Having access to all the data, not part of it, leads to better decisions. It's time to advance data democratization, and remove data silos that so frequently exist within water utilities. Gain insights into the digital transformation of data, empowering professionals to access and utilize information efficiently. The future of water is data platforms to house all the data to make things better and avoid duplication which decreases costs and gives everyone involved with the water the ability to analyze and utilize the data. Tune in to Scaling UP! H2O and embark on a transformative adventure with Dragan Savić. Remember, water heroes collaborate strategically, embrace AI innovations, and champion data access and scale up your knowledge to conquer industry challenges. Timestamps 01:00 - Trace Blackmore invites you to submit a show idea 03:45 - Upcoming Events for Water Treatment Professionals 14:30 - Drop by Drop With James McDonald 19:00 - Interview with Dragan Savić FREng Quotes "Data needs to be accessible and understandable to everyone in the same company. With data platforms to host, the data you avoid duplication, doing the same work or collecting the same data, so you get cost efficiency and also the ability to analyze and utilize more of that data." - Dragan Savić "The water industry is conscious about cyber security. Water engineers are looking at what could go wrong." - Dragan Savić "We have to work with younger generations because those are the ones that will grow through the ranks and become the next experts, professors, or people who are implementing the new scheme." Dragan Savić Connect with Dragan Savić Email: [email protected] Website: www.kwrwater.nl/en/ LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/dragansavic/ www.linkedin.com/company/kwr-water-research-institute/ Read or Download Dragan Savić FREng's Press Release HERE Links Mentioned KWI's "Stop It" program Gwinnett County Georgia, The Environmental and Heritage Center NAP Visitorcentre in Amsterdam, The Netherlands The Rising Tide Mastermind Scaling UP! H2O Academy video courses Submit a Show Idea AWT (Association of Water Technologies) Drop By Drop with James In this week's episode, I offer up another challenge to you. This week's challenge is…to send handwritten notes to those who have helped you. I mean truly handwritten notes. In this digital world we live in with emails, voicemails, text messages, social media posts, and so forth, actually taking the time and effort to handwrite a sincere note to someone takes on a lot of meaning. I'm a note writer. I've handwritten notes to my employees telling them how much I appreciate them. I've handwritten notes to mentors and those who have influenced my professional and personal development over the years. I've handwritten notes to operators for doing a good job or taking the extra time to help me. I've handwritten notes of condolences to those who have lost loved ones and congratulations to those who have brought new life into the world. I've handwritten notes on Christmas cards so it's more than just a pretty card with a signature. I once had a customer pull me into his office and gesture at all the tins and boxes of cookies and treats he had been sent at Christmas from various vendors. He sincerely told me that all of tha

"Why is the water weirdly blue? Why does it smell bad? Why does it taste bad? The culprit is frequently Backflow." - Kalpna Solanki Delve into the mysteries behind strange-tinted water, unpleasant odors, and off-putting tastes – all signs pointing to an all too common culprit: Backflow. Uncover the shocking narrative of over 50,000 residents enduring weeks without water due to industrial chemicals infiltrating their drinking supply in Ontario, Canada. Join Kalpna Solanki, President and CEO of the Environmental Operators Certification Program, on a mission to safeguard our drinking water. In this episode, Kalpna Solanki delves into the concealed dangers of Backflow, the inadvertent reverse flow of harmful substances into water systems. Through gripping case studies, she paints a vivid picture of the potential consequences of backflow incidents, emphasizing the critical need for proactive prevention measures. Kalpna shares insights on emergency response teams, navigating legislative challenges, and the ongoing commitment to professional development in ensuring water safety. Immerse yourself in the latest Scaling UP! H2O episode, where Kalpna Solanki, as a water quality advocate, exposes the unseen threat jeopardizing our drinking water – Backflow. As the dynamic leader of the Environmental Operators Certification Program, Kalpna narrates real stories from the front lines of water treatment, underscoring the paramount importance of backflow prevention. Episode Highlights: Backflow Unveiled: Kalpna guides listeners through the unexpected dangers of Backflow, shedding light on instances where the safety of our water supply teeters on the brink. Explore the indispensable role of Backflow prevention devices and the unsung heroes, Environmental Operators, dedicated to ensuring these guardians of clean water fulfill their duty. Importance of Emergency Response Teams: Kalpna discusses the need for emergency response teams to address issues related to extreme weather events and climate change. Highlighting the importance of contingency plans and teams in industrial water treatment facilities, she provides insights on working with legislators to formulate a plan before disaster strikes. In the Trenches: Real Backflow Incidents: Listeners will be captivated by narratives of actual Backflow incidents, where the absence of prevention measures led to contamination crises – stories that underscore the urgency of our collective responsibility. A Path Forward: Kalpna and her team have developed resources to help water professionals learn about Backflow, partner with local legislation to improve public drinking water, and enhance safety through education, maintenance, and laws. Kalpna's passion for water quality and preventing water disasters is contagious, and these stories resonate with the heart of every water professional and concerned citizen. Join the episode to become part of the solution, unveiling the hidden threats to our most precious resource. Tune in now to Scaling UP! H2O and stand as a defender of clean water! Timestamps 01:00- Upcoming Events for Water Treatment Professionals 09:00- Interview with Kalpna Solanki 46:10 - Lightning Round Questions 56:00 - Drop by Drop With James McDonald Quotes "This industry is recession-proof. There will always be a need for environmental operators. It's a career with lots of opportunities. You can work anywhere because everyone needs people to take care of drinking water and wastewater management." - Kalpna Solanki "Knowledge is never wasted." - Kalpna Solanki "You are putting the public's health at risk when you don't have the proper systems in place." - Kalpna Solanki "I would love people to find out about Backflow, what exactly it is, why it's important, and why lawmakers should be paying more attention to this so that we don't have these incidents of people accidentally, literally, being poisoned via their drinking water because it is completely preventable. That's the thing about it. It is completely preventable, and it's not a big ticket item." - Kalpna Solanki "There's a finite amount of water on this planet, and we really need to spend a bit more time looking at not just water conservation, but water treatment, water reuse and the circular water economy." - Kalpna Solanki Connect with Kalpna Solanki Phone: 778.688.9196 Email: [email protected] Website: eocp.ca Water Environment Federation (WEF) LinkedIn: in/kalpnasolanki company/eocpbcy Read or Download Kalpna Solanki's Press Release HERE Links Mentioned Join Team Scaling UP! Nation's Global 6K on May 18th British Columbia Institute of Technology for Water and Wastewater Operations Read Kalpna's Publications on Operator Digest Magazine Become a #watergeek - What is an Environmental Operator and what do they do? Water Environment Federation (WEF) Examples of Backflow Incidents in Canada 2021 Floods in Merritt, B.C.: Review and Repair Cleaning Up Edmonton's Sewer Smell Ontario Canada Petrochemicals 50,000 Residents Impact

"Don't shortcut boiler safety. Do it once, do it right, and don't put your life or someone else's life at risk." - Barry Higgins Happy days are here again! Dive deeper into the realm of steam boilers with Part 2 of our exclusive interview with the brilliant Barry Higgins from AquaChem. If you enjoyed last Friday's episode, get ready for an even more profound exploration into the intricacies of boiler management. In this episode, Barry takes us on a journey through advanced topics crucial for every water treater and industry enthusiast. Discover the significance of pH management, from its intricate relation to alkalinity to the cautionary notes on caustic demand above pH 11. Barry emphasizes the importance of precise pH meter calibration, advocating for separate probes in high pH ranges and the use of single-use cells for calibration. Explore the nuances of the blowdown system as Barry stresses the effectiveness of short, pulsating blowdowns for optimal sludge removal. Uncover the distinctions between bottom and top blowdowns and the potential pitfalls of leaving the blowdown open for extended periods. Safety measures take center stage as Barry shares a personal account, highlighting the critical importance of regular checks on low and high-level probes, weekly boiler checks, and alarm tests. Water level monitoring becomes a fascinating topic, discussing variations due to steam density, the significance of steady levels, and the importance of checking sight glasses for signs of corrosion. Barry wraps it up with insights into boiler water sampling, offering guidance on ideal sampling locations and considerations when a sample cooler is unavailable. Join host Trace Blackmore as he continues his conversation with Barry Higgins, unraveling advanced boiler checks and sharing invaluable wisdom. Get ready for a knowledge-packed episode that elevates your expertise in industrial water treatment. Happy days, indeed! Timestamps 01:00 - Trace Blackmore reminds you to share your water resources with others 03:40 - Upcoming Events for Water Treatment Professionals 08:30 - Interview with Barry Higgins, Boilers Part 2 34:30 - Lightning round questions 40:00 - Closing thoughts with Trace 48:15 - Drop by Drop With James McDonald Quotes "Do it once, do it right, and don't put your life or someone else's life at risk. It's not worth your life. Don't shortcut boiler safety. Get the steam properly in one hour, not two minutes." - Barry Higgins "You have to check all your levels and check all your probes and make sure all these alarms are working." - Barry Higgins "Jump in, you'll love working with water. If you like to solve problems this is a job for life. You will never have two days that are exactly the same." - Barry Higgins "I'm a water treater, I'm not a Magician." - Barry Higgins "Advice for water treaters on day one: Be bold. Make hard decisions that come your way, don't be scared of them. It's gonna be a roller coaster. It's gonna be up. It's gonna be down, but just go with the flow and learn. If you get a knock get back up again and and learn learn from why you failed and just keep going" - Barry Higgins Connect with Barry Higgins Phone: +353 87 987 8606 Email: [email protected] Website: www.aquachem.ie LinkedIn: in/barry-higgins-bagrsc-59030225 company/aquachem-dac Read or Download Barry Higgins' Press Release HERE Download Steam Boiler Essential Checklist HERE Links Mentioned Ep 340 Alkalinity and pH Ep 281 The One About The Power of Kindness with Kathleen Edelman Ep 117 The One With Temperament Expert, Kathleen Edelman Ep 179 Another One that Teaches Us to Communicate Better with Others Robert Boyle, Boyle's Law The Rising Tide Mastermind AWT (Association of Water Technologies) Books Mentioned Drive by Daniel Pink Traction by Gino Wickman I Said This, You Heard That by Kathleen Edelman I Said This, You Heard That, Workbook by Kathleen Edelman I Said This, You Heard That, Workbook, 2nd Edition by Kathleen Edelman Adults Guide to Kids Wiring by Kathleen Edelman Talking To Strangers by Michael Harding Drop By Drop with James In today's episode, we are going to talk about one of water's absolutely amazing properties. We are going to talk about hydrogen bonding, one of my favorite types of bonding in the atomic world. Yeah, I'm weird that way. Water is H2O or two hydrogen atoms and one oxygen atom. The two hydrogen atoms are not stuck to each other but are stuck to the oxygen atom instead. It's HOW they are stuck to the oxygen atom that makes all the difference in the universe! They are NOT stuck directly across from each other on the oxygen atom at 180 degrees like the buns on Princess Leia's hair. No buddy. That would have been disastrous for life as we know it! We would have had no hope. Instead, they are stuck at an angle; at approximately a 104.5 degree angle. Think Mickey Mouse with his two ears representing the two hydrogen atoms and his head the oxygen atom. THAT is water. This kink of an angle leads to a very

"It's my nature, I want to help people and solve their problems." - Barry Higgins Happy days! We're excited to welcome industry expert Barry Higgins of AquaChem to Scaling UP! H2O for a special two-part series unraveling the complexities of boilers. In Part 1, Barry meticulously explores the essential checklist for professionals engaged in boiler treatment. Gain profound insights into water treatment as Barry discusses pretreatment, feed water samples, condensate samples, and the crucial role played by steam traps. Delve into a comprehensive comparison of boiler standards between the US and the UK, offering a global perspective on industry best practices and regulations. Barry generously shares solutions for common issues like softener malfunctions, steam trap leaks, and optimal boiler maintenance during low periods and sudden demand spikes. This episode is an invaluable source of knowledge. Join us on this enlightening journey into the world of boiler water management, where you'll acquire practical insights to elevate your understanding of industrial water treatment. Barry's expertise, shared generously, ensures that our listeners gain actionable takeaways applicable to their daily operations. Prepare for an episode packed with knowledge, exploring the intricacies of boilers and delivering valuable lessons for water treaters and industry professionals. Happy days, indeed! Timestamps 00:01 - Trace Blackmore reminds you to think about your next step and to follow your passion 04:00 - Upcoming Events for Water Treatment Professionals 10:00 - Interview with Barry Higgins, Boilers Part 1 53:00 - Drop by Drop With James McDonald Boiler Joke: Q: How do you stop a runaway steam boiler? A: With a steam trap 😄 Quotes "I love the variety of water treatment, the characters we serve, and that we get to go somewhere new and learn new things every day." - Barry Higgins "The point of doing tests is to get data points and improve things for your customers. You want to show your customers how they are wasting or saving money." - Barry Higgins "Customers see the value of you putting the extra effort in and going the extra mile for them and let them know why you're doing it and how you're saving them money." - Barry Higgins "It's my nature, I want to help people and solve their problems." - Barry Higgins Connect with Barry Higgins Phone: +353 87 987 8606 Email: [email protected] Website: www.aquachem.ie LinkedIn: in/barry-higgins-bagrsc-59030225 company/aquachem-dac Read or Download Barry Higgins' Press Release HERE Links Mentioned The Rising Tide Mastermind Global 6K, join our team Episode 113 with James McDonald (using your five senses) Episode 318 with Ritchie Ware and Steven Taylor of WARE (Boiler) Events in Water Treatment Lori O'Donoghue of AQUACHEM DAC Steam Boiler Essential Checks Scaling UP! H2O Academy video courses Submit a Show Idea AWT (Association of Water Technologies)

Like you, we all want our water business to be profitable. Embark on a journey to make your water business not just successful, but wildly profitable! While many believe that sales alone can solve all challenges, the truth lies in understanding the intricate dance of profitability and cash flow. In the wise words of Stephen Covey, "No margin, no mission." We all share the conviction that a thriving business is one that can afford to invest in its people and resources. Even for non-profits, the bottom line remains crucial — successful organizations, whether for-profit or not, need to pay their bills and ensure sustainability. Sales are undoubtedly a driving force, but the misconception that more sales always mean more success can lead businesses astray. Ever witnessed a company sell itself out of business on Shark Tank? It happens when the demand exceeds the capacity to deliver due to a lack of cash flow. Enter the eye-opening world of Profit and Loss statements and explore your business through the lens of the Eight Cash Flow Drivers, outlined in the groundbreaking Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS) by Gino Wickman. These drivers — Price, C.O.G.S. (Cost of Goods Sold), Margin, Ancillary Sales, Service Time, Errors, Compensation/Labor Costs, A/R Days, and G&A Expenses — form a strategic roadmap to enhance your water business's cash flow and profitability. This new Scaling Up H2O episode unravels the secrets behind these drivers and shows how implementing them can transform your business landscape. Don't miss the chance to elevate your company's profitability starting tomorrow — tune in now to scale up your financial success knowledge! Your friend as you drive from client to client, Trace Blackmore, CWT Timestamps 01:00 - Upcoming Events for Water Treatment Professionals 04:40 - How to know if a conference is worthwhile to attend 05:30 - Showing up with a full cup mentality 10:45 - Trace Blackmore invites you to Scaling UP! Your Cash Flow 39:23 - Drop by Drop With James McDonald Quotes "Sales for sales' sake can put you out of business" - Mary Kay Ash, the founder of Mary Kay Cosmetics "No margin, no mission." - Stephen Covey, author of The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People Connect with Scaling UP! H2O Email Producer: [email protected] Submit a show idea: Submit a Show Idea LinkedIn: in/traceblackmore/ YouTube: @ScalingUpH2O Links Mentioned Ep 204 Being Profitable with the Boilermaker Hamburger Ep 260 Profit First Ep 267 Making a Profit Ep 315 The Intentional Growth Framework with Ryan Tansom Shark Tank TV Show on ABC The Rising Tide Mastermind Scaling UP! H2O Academy video courses Books Mentioned The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen Covey Traction: Get a Grip on Your Business by Gino Wickman What the Heck Is EOS?: A Complete Guide for Employees in Companies Running on EOS by Gino Wickman Drop By Drop with James In this week's episode, we're thinking about what happens when a large steam user in a facility suddenly starts using steam. What happens inside the boiler? How is the steam pressure impacted? How does the water level change in response to this suddenly large steam demand? When is feedwater triggered? What is the impact of this cooler feedwater upon the hotter water inside the boiler? How could this impact steam output rate? Could it cause boiler carryover and why? How could low level alarms be triggered if the high demand continued long enough? The answers are actually very interesting and interrelated. Spirax Sarco has a nine-part series on YouTube called "The Inside Story." This is a CLASSIC series that every industrial water treatment professional should watch. They actually let you view inside the boiler as steam is being produced and show what happens at low pressures, high pressures, increased demand, etc. If you've already seen the series, they are worth watching again. If you haven't seen it, get your popcorn and pocket protector, because you're in for a treat! Part 6 addresses the topic of today's Drop by Drop episode on increased demand. I'll be sure to get the links to Trace so he can hopefully include them into the show notes for this episode. Otherwise, if you search for "steam boilers the inside story" in your favorite search engine, you are likely to find the series. Spirax Sarco's Steam Boilers - The Inside Story: Part 1 - Introduction Steam Boilers – The Inside Story: Part 2 – Basic Boiler Control Steam Boilers – The Inside Story: Part 3 – Water Level and Gauges Steam Boilers – The Inside Story: Part 4 – Feed Water Control Steam Boilers – The Inside Story: Part 5 – Low Pressure Operation Steam Boilers – The Inside Story: Part 6 – Increased Demand Steam Boilers – The Inside Story: Part 7 – Very High Demand Steam Boilers – The Inside Story: Part 8 – TDS Control Steam Boilers – The Inside Story: Part 9 – Summary 2024 Events for Water Professionals Check out our Scaling UP! H2O Events Calendar where we've listed every event Water Treaters should be awa

"Pre-treatment is the key to everything." - Dr. Kelle Zeiher Learn about the profound impact of cutting-edge technology on the realm of industrial water treatment, accompanied by the insights of esteemed reverse osmosis specialist, Dr. Kelle Zeiher from Garratt-Callahan. With over three decades of dedicated experience in the water industry and a distinguished background in chemistry, Dr. Zeiher shares invaluable insights into the transformative synergy between advanced technology and the pivotal role of water treaters. At the heart of our conversation is Dr. Zeiher's revolutionary technology, AROS (Aqueous Reuse Optimization System), a groundbreaking solution allowing for multiple cycles of water usage, unlocking unprecedented opportunities in water treatment efficiency. Join us as we delve into how this winning duo of technology and water treaters is redefining standards in equipment health, water optimization, and overall sustainability. This data-driven water episode illuminates the global demand for water and the challenges tied to shortages, despite Earth's abundant water resources. Dr. Zeiher explores how variations in water usage and availability underscore the critical need for sustainable water management. Discover the concept of a "water footprint" and its implications, showcasing the amount of water required to produce everyday items like gasoline, steel, cars, cell phones, and data. Delve into the challenges of water management, particularly in cooling processes for industrial applications. Dr. Zeiher introduces a patented process designed to recycle and reuse water efficiently, addressing the challenge of liquid discharge in industrial settings. The episode emphasizes the importance of respectful communication with customers, understanding their specific challenges, and presenting tailored solutions. Learn about quick wins for water treaters, focusing on chemical treatments to maintain system health, control scale, fouling, and corrosion, along with implementing pre-treatment strategies. For water treaters seeking to enhance their expertise and contribute significantly to sustainable water usage, this episode offers a wealth of knowledge and inspiration. Tune in for a journey into the future of water treatment, where technology and the expertise of water treaters harmonize to maximize water's potential. Timestamps 01:00 - Trace Blackmore invites you to read Daniel Pink's book, Drive and introduces you to the three concepts from the book: Autonomy, Mastery, and Purpose 05:30 - Upcoming Events for Water Treatment Professionals 8:30 - Interview with Dr. Kelle Zeiher of Garratt-Callahan 45:00 - Trace's challenge to you: write and present a technical paper 48:30 - Drop by Drop With James McDonald Quotes "Pre-treatment is the key to everything." - Dr. Kelle Zeiher "I help industries save money and keep their equipment in better health over the long haul. I help keep all of the water in our world safer and more readily available for people to use and enjoy." - Dr. Kelle Zeiher "When it's a large system, there are costs and benefits everywhere." - Dr. Kelle Zeiher "We cannot always get to zero, but we can try." - Dr. Kelle Zeiher "Yes, it's going to cost you money - all solutions cost money, but are you spending the money wisely, and what are you getting for it?" - Dr. Kelle Zeiher Connect with Kelle Zeiher Phone: 630.660.3457 Email: [email protected] Reverse Osmosis email: [email protected] Website: garrattcallahan.com LinkedIn: in/kelle-zeiher-6bab221 company/garratt-callahan-company Read or Download Kelle Zeiher's Press Release HERE Check out Kelle's mystery, romance, and adventure books: kellezriley.net Links Mentioned Drive: The Surprising Truth About What Motivates Us by Daniel H. Pink Episode 347 with Emily E. Lewis of Clyde Snow & Sessions Episode 307 with Bowen Engineering and the International Water Conference (IWC) Innovative Water Treatment Supports Conservation by Kelle Zeiher Kelle Z. Riley's Undercover Cat Series Erin Brockovich directed by Steven Soderbergh (Watch on Prime Video) The Big Bang Theory created by Chuck Lorre and Bill Prady (Watch on Max - Prime Video) Garratt-Callahan's Water Treatment Technologies Industrial Water Conference The Rising Tide Mastermind Submit a Show Idea Books Mentioned Drive: The Surprising Truth About What Motivates Us, by Daniel Pink Undercover Cat Series by Kelle Z. Riley The Tipping Point: How Little Things Can Make a Big Difference by Malcolm Gladwell The Poisoner's Handbook: Murder and the Birth of Forensic Medicine in Jazz Age New York by Deborah Blum Reverse Osmosis: A Practical Guide for Industrial Users by Wes Bryne Reverse Osmosis: Industrial Processes and Applications 2nd Edition by Jane Kucera The NALCO Water Handbook, Fourth Edition by Ecolab Drop By Drop with James It's in the middle of winter. It's cold. You've had a long day as an industrial water treatment professional battling scale, corrosion, unwanted microbiological activity, and ineffic

Welcome to another enriching episode of "Scaling UP! H2O," your go-to education podcast created by and for water professionals. Join us as we learn together with lab partner and three-time guest, Mike Standish, Vice President of Water Additives at MFG Chemical. In this episode, discover valuable insights and expertise from Mike, a seasoned professional who has been working extensively in water since 1986. In today's interview, Mike shares insights on his recent technical paper titled "Purposely Built - Introduction of a New Copolymer for Multifunctional Applications." Explore copolymer innovations, unraveling the complexities and gaining a deeper understanding of their multifunctional applications. As we scale up on knowledge, Mike guides us through the past, present, and future trends in polymer technology. Join the community of water professionals seeking growth, learning, and connection in the best industry in the world – water. Don't miss this opportunity to elevate your understanding of copolymer innovations in water treatment on "Scaling UP! H2O." Timestamps 01:00 - Trace Blackmore invites you to celebrate our 350th episode! 04:00 - AWT's technical training offerings 10:50 - Interview with Mike Standish about his paper: "Purposely Built - Introduction of a New Copolymer for Multifunctional Applications" 46:30 - Drop by Drop With James McDonald Quotes "The one point I would make is that since the 1980s, everything has been a variation on the same theme. What we use today, it doesn't matter what brand of product you use: Copolymer, Terpolymer, Tetrapolymer, or whatever - it's all a variation on the theme of carboxylate-sulfonate and then potentially the addition of the nonionic monomer as the enhancer." - Mike Standish "At least 80 % of the copolymers that you're going to see out there are going to contain AA/AMPS as the monomer." - Mike Standish "Systems that can impart very, very different properties to the polymer, so you need to engage with your supplier and really, you know, kind of ask those next levels of questions because you know Polymer A is not the same as Polymer B." Connect with Mike Standish Phone: 423.316.9877 Email: [email protected] Website: www.radicalpolymers.com mfgchemical.com LinkedIn: in/mike-standish-7890627 Read or Download Mike Standish's Press Release HERE Links Mentioned AWT's Technical Training WEST - March 6 to 9, 2024 in Frisco, Texas EAST - April 17 to 20, 2024 in Cleveland, Ohio Episode 14 with Mike Standish Episode 176 where Mike Standish talked about Tagged Polymer Technologies Episode 31 with Mark Lewis Episode 34 (another episode) with Mark Lewis Episode 112 where Mark Lewis interviewed Trace Blackmore Episode 125 with Justin Ranger Purposely Built - Introduction of a New Copolymer for Multifunctional Applications The Rising Tide Mastermind Scaling UP! H2O Academy video courses Submit a Show Idea AWT (Association of Water Technologies) Media Mentioned Book: Killers of the Flower Moon written by David Grann Movie: Killers of the Flower Moon directed by Martin Scorsese (Watch on Apple TV+) Documentary: The Doughnut King directed by Alice Gu (Watch on Hulu) Documentary: Honeyland directed by Tamara Kotevska (Watch on HBO Max) Drop By Drop with James In today's episode, we're thinking about the cooling tower conductivity setpoint. Picture it, if you will. The cooling tower is running like normal. As water flows, recirculates, and evaporates, we see the conductivity continues to increase. Then it happens. The conductivity reaches its setpoint on the controller. Then what? Seriously, what literally happens next? Does the controller immediately send a signal to the blowdown valve to open up? How does the controller's deadband or differential or whatever your controller manufacturer chooses to call it come into play? The controller uses a deadband so the blowdown valve does not try to chatter open and close as the conductivity fluctuates from being EXACTLY on the setpoint to NOT being exactly on the setpoint. Such chatter trying to open and close the valve could very quickly wear a valve out as well as the relays in the controller itself. Plus, the valves may not even be given enough time to reach their minimum energize times. Does the deadband sandwich your conductivity setpoint or is it a one-way setup where it starts at the setpoint? For example, if your conductivity setpoint is 1,000 microsiemens and your deadband is 100 microsiemens, would your blowdown valve first open at 1,000 or 1,050 microsiemens? This will depend upon your setup in the controller and the options the manufacturer has made available to you. Another point to consider is whether any biocide lockout timers are currently active which would prevent the cooling tower from blowing down during a biocide application. Once your blowdown valve is actually open, though, does the cooling tower conductivity start to drop IMMEDIATELY? Have you ever thought about this before? The answer is, actually,

"Traditionally, the Achilles' heel of using membrane technology with wastewater, especially industrial wastewater, is the irreversible loss of performance due to fouling." - Chris Drover Welcome to Scaling UP! H2O, the go-to resource for professionals in the extraordinary world of industrial water treatment. In today's episode, we're excited to unveil a revolutionary ultrafiltration technology that promises to redefine wastewater treatment. Our guest, Chris Drover, CTO & Co-Founder at ZwitterCo, Inc., introduces us to their groundbreaking Zwitterion-based filtration technology, offering a game-changing alternative to traditional membrane systems. Discover the unique hydrophilic properties of Zwitterions that make these membranes resistant to fouling, a common challenge in industrial wastewater treatment. Unlike traditional membranes, ZwitterCo's technology excels at removing oil, grease, organic biopolymers, algae, viruses, and bacteria, positioning it at the forefront of ultrafiltration solutions. If you're grappling with issues related to uptime, cleaning costs, or seeking a more sustainable water treatment solution, this episode is tailor-made for you. Uncover the answers to pressing questions such as: What sets ZwitterCo's technology apart? How does it compare to traditional water treatment methods? What percentage of oil and emulsifiers can it handle in wastewater? Learn about the frequency of membrane cleaning with bleach, real-world applications, and the strategic balance between economic and environmental considerations. Whether you're dealing with landfill leachate, meat processing, or navigating the complexities of water treatment, join us to gain invaluable insights into a transformative technology designed for industrial water treaters. Scale up your knowledge today to ensure your system scales up efficiently. Tune in and stay ahead of the curve in industrial water treatment innovation! Timestamps 01:00 - Trace Blackmore thanks you for being part of the global Industrial Water Treatment Community 05:00 - Upcoming Events for Water Treatment Professionals 09:15 - Drop by Drop With James McDonald 12:00 - Interview with Chris Drover, the CTO & Co-Founder at ZwitterCo, Inc. 45:30 - Lightning Round Questions 53:00 - In memory of a water professional we lost not that long ago, Rob Ferguson of WaterCycle, please become a mentor in 2024 and pour your knowledge into the next generation of water professionals Quotes "What Zwitterions do for membranes is by building these membranes out of zwitterionic materials, we can give them this really hydrophilic property that makes them virtually immune to the type of fouling, that permanent absorption of oil and organics into the pores of a membrane." - Chris Drover "A neat thing about Zwitterions is that oils and other organics have a really hard time sticking to them and absorbing them because they're just soaking up water." - Chris Drover "Traditionally, the Achilles' heel of using membrane technology with wastewater, especially industrial wastewater is the irreversible loss of performance due to fouling and keeping them performing for long enough to recoup the investment, that's what our market focuses on unconventional waters that have a lot of challenges with membrane fouling." - Chris Drover Connect with Chris Drover Phone: 508.562.9916 Email: [email protected] Website: zwitterco.com LinkedIn: in/cdrover company/zwitterco-inc Links Mentioned Tangential Flow Model What is a Zwitterion? Tufts University Aquatech Conference Rob Ferguson of WaterCycle in episode 43 "The One With The Water Cycle Guy" The Rising Tide Mastermind Scaling UP! H2O Academy video courses Books Mentioned MARS TRILOGY: Red Mars, Green Mars, and Blue Mars by Kim Stanley Robinson The Nature of Technology: What It Is and How It Evolves by W. Brian Arthur Drop By Drop with James In today's episode, I have a useful little quote from the 2021 edition of the "Consensus on Operating Practices for the Control of Feedwater and Boiler Water Chemistry in Industrial and Institutional Boilers" (catchy title!) by the American Society of Mechanical Engineers or ASME. It says, "Where a choice is available, the reduction or removal of objectionable constituents by pretreatment external to the boiler is always preferable to, and more reliable than, management of these constituents within the boiler by internal chemical treatment, which involves boiler blowdown and chemical feed to the boiler system." Chew on that for a minute. "Where a choice is available, the reduction or removal of objectionable constituents by pretreatment external to the boiler is always preferable to, and more reliable than, management of these constituents within the boiler by internal chemical treatment." As vital and important as internal chemical treatment is to a boiler, consider all the ways it could fail. Would you rather manage hardness in your boiler with internal chemical treatment or by using pretreatment such as a water

"Credentials have been one of the most important ways to help promote public health and safety and prevent disease, dismemberment, or death." - Christoph Lohr Elevate your expertise in water treatment by diving into this enlightening episode, where we explore the realm of certifications and their profound impact on the water treatment community. Join Christoph Lohr, Vice President of Technical Services and Research at IAPMO, an advocate for education and collaboration, as he unravels the world of credentials, codes, and the driving force of litigation in shaping cutting-edge water system designs. Discover the wealth of educational opportunities offered by IAPMO (The International Association of Plumbing & Mechanical Officials) and how pursuing certifications like ASSE 12080 (Professional Qualifications Standard for Legionella Water Safety and Management Personnel) can pave the way for a brighter tomorrow. Christoph delves into the nuances of several certifications, shedding light on their significance for water treaters. Unravel the debate on pronouncing ASSE's (American Society of Sanitary Engineering) "12080" correctly—hint: it's "twelve thousand eighty." Gain valuable knowledge on the ASSE 12080 certification process, how plumbers and water treaters can learn from one another to improve public health, how to become involved with standards, the buffet of options for plumbing design and installation plumbing codes, and preventing water-borne illness through collaboration. Furthermore, this episode touches on IAPMO's Water Demand Calculator replacement for Hunter's Curve and its profound impact on pipe size, stagnation, biofilm, and the factors contributing to Legionella growth. For industrial water treaters, this episode serves as a treasure trove of information, guiding them in selecting certifications aligned with their career aspirations. Christoph's expertise illuminates the importance of certifications in building a knowledgeable workforce for water management programs, ultimately contributing to enhanced public health. Tune in, scale up your education, and embark on a journey towards a more impactful and informed career in water treatment. Timestamps 01:00 - Trace Blackmore encourages you to get your CWT in 2024 06:25 - Drop by Drop With James McDonald 09:35 - Interview with Christoph Lohr, Vice President of Technical Services and Research at IAPMO, about the importance of credentials for water professionals 55:00 - A bit more about IAPMO (The International Association of Plumbing & Mechanical Officials) Quotes "The true benefit of a certification is that it gets everyone speaking the same language. The real strength is that it gets everyone on the same page." - Christoph Lohr "The plumbing industry needs industrial water treaters and industrial water treaters need the plumbing industry. It's a really symbiotic relationship." - Christoph Lohr "One of the biggest misnomers that people think about plumbing codes is that they are restrictive. We have to realize when it comes to plumbing design and installation, that plumbing codes are more like a buffet of options than a restrictive methodology." - Christoph Lohr Connect with Christoph Lohr Phone: 248.736.4940 Email: [email protected] Get involved with IAPMO: [email protected] IAPMO Website: IAPMO.org UniformCodes.org LinkedIn: in/christoph-lohr-pe company/iapmo Listen to the The Authority Podcast: Plumbing and Mechanical on your favorite podcast player or on YouTube. Read or Download Christoph Lohr's Press Release HERE. IAPMO Links Mentioned Get involved with IAPMO - [email protected] The Authority Podcast's episode with Trace Blackmore AWWA IAPMO 2022 Manual - The Safe Closure and Reopening of Building Water Systems IAPMO and AWWA's Recommended Practices for the Safe Closure and Reopening of Building Water Systems IAPMO's Uniform Plumbing Codes IAPMO's Water Demand Calculator ASSE/IAPMO/ANSI Series 12000-2021 IAPMO's Water Efficiency and Sanitation Standard (WE•Stand) Organizations and Articles Mentioned The Risks of Sizing Plumbing Systems Using Hunter's Curve Dr. Janet Stout's Special Pathogens Laboratory AWT (Association of Water Technologies) The International Water Conference (IWC) Emerging Water Technology Symposium (EWTS) American National Standards Institute (ANSI) NASEM's article Management of Legionella in Water Systems National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine (NASEM) The National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine Plumbing & Mechanical Engineer Manual of Water Quality for Plumbing Industry Professionals and Building Managers The Environmental Science, Policy and Research Institute (ESPRI) American Society of Plumbing Engineers (ASPE) ASPE Engineering Methodologies to Reduce the Risk of Legionella in Premise Plumbing Systems Plumbing Manufacturers International (PMI) National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) Water In Healthcare Facilities: The Public Health And Economic Nexus Inte

"With water, everybody loses or everybody wins." - Emily Lewis Embark on a transformative journey into the intricate world of water management with Emily E. Lewis on the latest episode of Scaling UP! H2O Podcast. Join us as Emily, Director and Shareholder, Co-Chair of Clyde Snow & Sessions' Natural Resources and Water Law Practice Group, unravels the complexities of water law, making it not just informative but relevant to your daily life as a water professional. In this episode, Emily shares her wealth of expertise, garnered from advising a diverse clientele, including individual water right owners, municipalities, and mining companies. As the Utah Water Banking Project Manager and host of the Ripple Effect podcast, Emily brings a unique perspective that transcends the confines of Utah, offering insights that resonate with water professionals nationwide. Delve into the future of water management as Emily discusses regulations, permits, and laws related to groundwater and water access. No need for legal jargon; Emily breaks down the role of water attorneys, offering practical insights into water laws, discharge and runoff permits, and the delicate balance between water quality and quantity. This isn't just theory; Emily addresses the real challenges you, as water treaters, face daily – from increasing water demands and population growth to the pressing need for innovative water management strategies. Gain the tools to have meaningful conversations with customers, stay abreast of local water legislation, and empower yourself to contribute when water laws are on the table in your state. Emily shares real-world examples, such as the Utah Water Banking Project, showcasing how a drought-stricken state overcame water challenges with inventive marketing strategies. Learn from a century of water management in Utah and understand the unique water challenges faced by water management of the Great Salt Lake. Discover collaborative efforts between industrial water treatment teams and legal experts, providing you with a roadmap to shape effective water policies. For Emily, water access is not just about wins and losses; it's about collective victories and shared successes. Timestamps 01:00 - Trace Blackmore shares the best unexpected Christmas gift he got 06:00 - Upcoming Events for Water Treatment Professionals 09:00 - Drop by Drop With James McDonald 12:30 - Interview with Emily E. Lewis the Director and Shareholder, Co-Chair of Natural Resources and Water Law at Clyde Snow & Sessions Quotes "The ability to drop a well and get more water is getting more and more limited, and physically the water is not there, and then legally it's a heavily regulated space these days." - Emily E. Lewis "With water, everybody loses or everybody wins." - Emily E. Lewis "In the West, we are in an acute water crisis. We do not have very much water and we have ballooning populations and ballooning needs. As we grow, where are we getting the water to support our new growth?" - Emily E. Lewis "In Utah, 70% of our water is used by agriculture and so we are working hand in hand with our agricultural partners to try and figure out ways to make those operations as efficient as possible because we really want to also keep our agricultural community. You know the solution is not to dry up Ag. The solution is to work with Ag." - Emily E. Lewis Connect with Emily E. Lewis Email: [email protected] Website: www.clydesnow.com Utah Water Banking Project LinkedIn: in/emily-e-lewis-4a50321b company/clyde-snow-&-sessions Emily also teaches Water Law for Professionals at the University of Utah Listen to Ripple Effect – A Podcast Putting Water in Context HERE Read or Download Emily Lewis' Press Release HERE Utah's Five Key Milestones to Successful Water Marketing Links Mentioned Water Marketing Strategy Report The Ripple Effect Podcast Natural Resources and Water Law Practice Group - Clyde Snow Ep 166 Reading The Raven Undone (The Sweater Song) by Weezer State of Utah's Water Rights Handbook Kevin Mercer - RainGrid, Inc Aquacycl - Industrial Wastewater Treatment Solutions Margaret Mitchell House in Atlanta John Wesley Powell - Former Director of the United States Geological Survey The Rising Tide Mastermind Scaling UP! H2O Academy video courses Submit a Show Idea AWT (Association of Water Technologies) Books and Articles Mentioned A Mystery of Mysteries: The Death and Life of Edgar Allan Poe by Mark Dawidziak Betz Handbook of Industrial Water Conditioning (9th Ed) by Betz Laboratories The New York Times' Uncharted Waters: America Is Using Up Its Groundwater Like There's No Tomorrow New York Times Opinion: Getting Real About Coal and Climate by Paul Krugman Natural Law and Prior Appropriation in Water Law (Page 46) by Robert W. Adler Gone With The Wind by Margaret Mitchell Beyond the Hundredth Meridian: John Wesley Powell and the Second Opening of the West by Wallace Stegner Angle of Repose by Wallace Stegner Drop By Drop with James In today's episode, we're