Send us a text

Join host Steve Leslie in a candid conversation with Jonathan Riehl, founder of Passion Pools and Ponds, as they delve into the intricacies of entrepreneurship. Jonathan shares insights into how passion and purpose drive every aspect of his business design, the challenges he faces in scaling his company while maintaining excellence, and the importance of personal well-being in preventing burnout. Discover valuable lessons on business management, staffing, and self-care from Jonathan's journey as a dedicated entrepreneur.

Show Notes:

• Passion and Purpose in Business:
  • Jonathan emphasizes the significance of purpose-driven design in every aspect of his business, where aesthetics and functionality converge to create cohesive outdoor settings.
  • He discusses the challenges of maintaining high standards and finding employees who share his passion and commitment, making it difficult to scale the business and duplicate his model effectively.
• Challenges in Scaling and Delegating:
  • Jonathan shares his struggles with delegating tasks and finding individuals who align with his vision and level of excellence, reflecting common dilemmas faced by entrepreneurs in relinquishing control as their businesses grow.
  • The conversation explores the complexities of staffing challenges and the toll it takes on personal well-being, highlighting the need for adaptability and sustainable solutions.
• Personal Well-Being and Burnout:
  • Jonathan opens up about his experiences with burnout and the importance of self-care in navigating the demands of entrepreneurship.
  • He shares insights into dietary choices and lifestyle adjustments aimed at maintaining a healthy work-life balance amidst the unpredictability of business ownership.
• Book Recommendations and Contact Information:
  • Jonathan recommends two books by Michael Stone: "Markup and Profit" and "Profitable Sales," which have been instrumental in shaping his business strategies.
  • Connect with Jonathan Reel and Passion Pools and Ponds:
    • Website: www.PassionPoolAndPond.com
    • Email: passionpooloffice@gmail.com
    • Instagram: @passionpool_pond

Tune in to The PromoMinds Podcast for more conversations on entrepreneurship, business management, and personal growth.

PromoMinds Email: promominds@gmail.com

#EntrepreneurLife #BusinessSuccess #PassionDriven #SmallBusinessChallenges #WorkLifeBalance #ScalingStruggles #BusinessMindset #ContractorTips

Send us a text

In this episode of the PromoMinds Podcast, we sit down with Canada's only recipient of the Pleatco Perfect Pool Guy Award - Cory Eagles of Eagles Pool Service in Riverview, New Brunswick. in 2015, Cory also won Pleatco's Big Heart Award after constructing an indoor pool to help save a young dog's life. Cory shares the journey of what led to this heartwarming story and how it revolutionized his business. He provides an inside look at the challenges presented and triumphs of leveraging business connections, highlighting the importance of community involvement and persistent effort.

Cory also dives into the intricacies of the pool and spa industry, recounting horror stories of inexperienced and fraudulent contractors, and offering valuable advice on how homeowners can protect themselves. From the importance of hiring reputable professionals to the need for continued education and industry improvements, Cory provides a wealth of knowledge and practical insights. Whether you're a homeowner looking to hire a swimming pool contractor, or a fellow contractor, this episode is packed with essential information and expert advice.

Key Takeaways:

1. Community Revitalization: Leveraging business connections and strategic fundraising can significantly impact community projects.
2. Contractor Vetting: Always check the reputation and experience of contractors to avoid costly mistakes.
3. Pleatco Awards: At the time of recording, Cory Eagles is the ONLY Canadian recipient of the Pleatco Big Heart Award (2015).
4. Economic Adaptation: The pool industry is experiencing shifts post-pandemic, with a current focus on smaller jobs and repairs, but a positive outlook for future growth.

Contact Information:

• Email: EaglesPoolServices@hotmail.com
• Phone: 506-854-3287
• Facebook: Eagles Pool Services

#RoscoTheDog #PoolIndustry #Pleatco #BigHeart #Awards #CommunityRevitalization #HomeImprovement #ContractorTips #PoolConstruction #BusinessPodcast #Construction #NewBrunswick #Riverview #PoolLiner #Liners #SwimmingPool #CustomerService #Community #Experience #Hydrotherapy #PetLovers #NatureLovers #Dogs #AnimalLovers #HipPain #Eagles #PoolService #HighburyPools #PromoMinds

Send us a text

In this episode, Steve breaks down what the 2025 Canadian Federal Election means for Canadian pool professionals. With Mark Carney now leading a Liberal minority government, we look at what this could mean for housing policy, energy efficiency programs, and the broader pool and spa supply chain.

We’ll dive into how trade tensions with the U.S. and China are influencing prices and availability of key materials like steel, vinyl, fiberglass, and plastics—and what Canadian retailers can do to stay competitive. Plus, I share insights on the growing popularity of heat pumps and smart pool tech, and why products like Hayward’s HeatPro® VS Series are worth paying attention to right now.

Key Takeaways:
✔ What Carney’s housing and trade agenda could mean for pool builders
✔ Why heat pumps and smart tech are gaining ground across Canada
✔ How to use tariffs as a talking point—not a setback
✔ What to do now to position yourself for a stronger 2025 season

Let’s connect:
💻 www.highburypools.com
📧 promominds@gmail.com

If you found this episode valuable, please subscribe and share it with someone in the pool and spa industry who needs to hear it.

#Canadavotes #CanadianElection #SwimmingPools #Hayward #HousingPlan #Affordability #Opportunity #Pools #Construction

Send us a text

In this episode of Meet Your Contractor, we explore the power of video marketing for contractors and landscapers with Bri Wardle, a passionate videographer and founder of Elevated Productions. Bri shares her journey from film studies to launching her own business, specializing in creating high-quality video content for the construction and landscaping industry.

Struggling to showcase the skill and beauty of your landscaping projects? Discover how Bri's creative approach and cinematic expertise can help you transform your online presence and attract new clients.

Key Takeaways for Contractors & Landscapers:

• Video Marketing Strategies: Learn how to create engaging video content for YouTube, Instagram, and other platforms to effectively market your construction or landscaping business.
• The Power of Video: Understand why video is crucial for modern marketing and how it can help you highlight the intricate work and expertise you bring to every project.
• Client-Centric Approach: Discover the importance of customizing video services to meet your specific goals and target audience.
• From Marketing Agency to Entrepreneur: Gain insights from Bri's inspiring career transition, navigating the challenges and rewards of starting your own video production business.

Bonus Resources:

• Book Recommendation: "Wild" by Cheryl Strayed (for overcoming challenges and pursuing your passion)

Connect with Bri Wardle:

• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@elevatedproductions97
• Email: elevatedproductions97@gmail.com
• Instagram: _elevated_productions

Looking to take your landscaping or construction business to the next level? Tune in and discover how video marketing can help you achieve your goals!

#landscapemarketing #contractormarketing #poolvideocontent #poolmarketingideas #showcaseyourpoolprojects #videocontentmarketing #constructionvideos #landscapingvideos #showcasingskills #clientfocusedvideo #entrepreneurjourney #filmmakerlife #meetthecontractor #landscapedesign #elevatedproductions #promominds

Send us a text

In today's episode, we're delighted to have Megan Coxworth, a passionate real estate agent representing Coxworth & Associates, an esteemed arm of Sotheby's International Realty Canada.

Megan brings a unique perspective, having spent five impactful years helping teenagers and young adults with mental health & addictions, before returning home to her family's real estate business on the scenic Southern Shores of Georgian Bay. This episode unravels Megan's insights into the recent changes in Ontario-specific real estate laws that transpired in December.

Megan's counseling background adds a distinctive layer to her approach. With a deep sense of empathy, she forges connections beyond the transactional aspect of real estate. As an enthusiastic educator, Megan simplifies the intricate process for clients navigating unfamiliar territory.

Join us to explore Megan's inspiring journey, brimming with valuable insights into the recent shifts in Ontario real estate legislation. Whether you're a seasoned homeowner or a first-time buyer, Megan ensures that understanding the details is accessible and enjoyable.

Key Real Estate Talking Points:

1. The elimination of "customer" and introduction of "Self-represented party", and what that means for consumers
2. The introduction of "offer sharing" and how it works
3. What is a "Designated Representative"?
4. What the RECO information guide is

BOOK RECOMMENDATIONS:
1. The Go-Giver by Bob Burg & John David Mann
2. Lost Connections by Johann Hari

CONTACT MEGAN:
Email: mcoxworth@sothebysrealty.ca
Cell: 705-543-9989
Instagram: @megan.coxworth
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/megan.coxworth
Website: https://sothebysrealty.ca/en/real-estate-team/coxworth-and-associates/

OPPORTUNITY:
If you have a cottage or lakefront property that you are looking to sell, now is your chance to take advantage of the ENORMOUS Cottage Show in Toronto. You could be featured in front of an additional 100,000 people on top of the excessive marketing plan Coxworth & Associates provides. Reach out to Megan for more details!

WANT TO BE FEATURED ON THE SHOW?
Please send an email to PromoMinds@Gmail.com with a brief intro as to what makes you an awesome guest!

#OntarioRealEstate #TorontoCottageShow #GeorgianBay #Collingwood #Midland #Muskoka #Barrie #RealEstate #RECO #Sothebys #GBay #Solopreneur #SmallBiz #MentalHealth #Addictions #CareerTransition #PromoMinds

Send us a text

One of the most powerful techniques an entrepreneur can do to help transform their business, is to focus on expanding their own network. The best way that I have found in more recent years has been collaborating with others who have built a larger network than myself, and giving them a platform to share and promote their business and projects on.

At the end of the day, what do most people want in relationships? To be heard. And when it comes to social media, whenever entrepreneurs and businesses have a message to share, they appreciate any positive engagement that follows. I enjoy learning about other people and sharing things I believe in, or have an interest in.

This is a big reason for starting the podcast. I simply love interacting with people who I may not have a deep relationship with, but am curious to learn more about them.

Everyone who has appeared on the show so far has a lot of value to give. The best part though, is learning more about who they are as a person, and what makes them tick.

I highly recommend considering ways to connect and collaborate with those with larger networks than yourself, who you are genuinely curious about, and be very intentional to try to add as much value for THEM, with no expectations in return, other than a good conversation.

Thank you to everyone who has appeared on the show so far!

#networking #expandyournetwork #buildyournetwork #peopleskills #collaboration #collaborate #solopreneur #entrepreneur #businesspodcast #marketingtips

Send us a text

In this episode of the PromoMinds Podcast, Steve Leslie returns after a chaotic couple of weeks—ice storms, power outages, and laptop breakdowns—to deliver a much-needed economic update and roadmap for Canadian pool professionals heading into the 2025 season.

With rising mortgage defaults, shifting trade tariffs, and a bear market that’s been quietly unfolding since the pandemic boom, this episode is your no-fluff wake-up call. But it's not doom and gloom. It's about recognizing the opportunity in the chaos.

Drawing from real economic cycles, Steve breaks down how pool companies thrived through the 2008 recession and how you can apply those lessons today. Whether you're a builder, dealer, or service pro, this is your blueprint for staying relevant—and profitable—during uncertain times.

📌 Key Takeaways:

• Economic reality check: Canada is entering a rocky economic cycle with paused interest rates, rising mortgage defaults, and growing tension in the real estate and trade sectors.
• History repeats: Pool companies that succeeded in 2008 didn't wait—they marketed smarter, streamlined operations, and leaned into renovation and service.
• Personal brand is key: People don't follow companies—they follow people. Trust is built online before you ever get the call.
• Shift to services and renovations: Homeowners may not be building new pools, but they'll pay for liner replacements, automation upgrades, and reliable service.
• Niche down or get drowned: Specialize in one core service area to attract higher-quality leads and increase perceived expertise.
• Slow season = content season: Use downtime to create helpful online content, answer real customer questions, and improve discoverability through SEO and social media.
• Local supply matters: Highbury Pools' Canadian-sourced materials and local production offer stability during global trade uncertainty.
• Your mindset matters: “What you seek, you shall find.” Focus on opportunity—not fear—to come out ahead.

📣 Call to Action:
If this episode resonates with you, please share it with a fellow pool professional, follow Steve on LinkedIn, and reach out to promominds@gmail.com. Looking to work with a Canadian manufacturer? Visit www.highburypools.com.

#swimmingpools #highburypools #hayward #pentair #jandy #omnilogic #poolconstruction #linerreplacement #marketing

Send us a text

In this episode, Steve breaks down 3 key questions your business website should answer for your customer. Far too many websites are designed more to satisfy their owners than they are for their customers.

What do you put on a website? How do I craft my business message? What do I say to people online?

Put yourself in the customer's shoes and think of why they are coming to your website. Think of why prospects are coming to your website. What information are they trying to find? Is it easy for them to find it?

In a world full of terms like "SEO" and "Keywords", it's easy for a solopreneur or small business owner to get discouraged when it comes to marketing their business. This episode is designed to help simplify the marketing lingo, and help create a basic road map to follow, whether you are just getting started or revamping your website.

Questions to answer:
1. What do you do?
2. Who do you serve?
3. Why should I (the customer or prospect) care?

Figure out a simple answer to these three questions and make sure it's easy for the viewer to find upon arrival to your website.

#PromoMinds #solopreneur #smallbiz #entrepreneur #marketingtips #website #poolandspa #contractor #vendors #solopreneurs