Advertise on podcast: The WQA Podcast

What happens when consumers and members contact the Water Quality Association looking for answers about their drinking water, treatment systems or product certification? In this episode of the WQA Podcast, host Wes Bleed welcomes Jillian Gasienica, WQA's Public Engagement and Communications Specialist, for a behind-the-scenes look at the questions coming into WQA and how the association helps connect people with trusted resources. Jill discusses common consumer misconceptions about WQA's role, the importance of the Gold Seal Product Certification Program, and how WQA's online directories help consumers locate member companies, certified professionals and certified products. She also explains how recurring inquiries contribute to WQA's Current Curiosities Report, providing insights into the water quality issues attracting public attention. For WQA members, the conversation illustrates how the association's consumer engagement efforts can help connect potential customers with qualified water treatment professionals. Resources: WQA website: https://www.wqa.org WQA membership: https://www.wqa.org/membership Contact WQA: [email protected] | 630-505-0160

Water treatment manufacturers see opportunities for growth, but labor shortages, cost pressures and economic uncertainty are tempering their outlook. In this episode of the Water Quality Association Podcast, Sean Caughron, Sam Karge and Bob Maisner join host Wes Bleed to discuss the Q3 2026 WQA Manufacturer Confidence Report. They explore what’s supporting demand for point-of-use and point-of-entry products, why hiring challenges affect both manufacturers and dealers, and how companies are using capital investment and AI to improve their operations. As members prepare their 2027 budgets, the guests offer a practical approach: use the report as an industry benchmark alongside your own business results, plan for growth, and maintain flexibility. Listen to the conversation, then download the full report from https://wqa.org and look for Resources and Reports.

Welcome to the Water Quality Association Podcast. Find us at https://wqa.org. WQA President Greg Reyneke joins Associate Director of Marketing & Communications Susan Keaton for a midyear conversation about the association’s direction. Greg explains how WQA is reorganizing its volunteer sections around work with consumers, businesses, and government, and why he believes the change will help members share expertise and respond to issues more quickly. They also discuss the connection between state and regional associations and WQA’s national work, Greg’s visits with members across the country, and what attendees can look forward to at the 2027 WQA Convention in Phoenix. Join WQA at https://wqa.org/membership

Welcome to the Water Quality Association Podcast. Find us at https://wqa.org. Dr. Tanya Lubner, WQA’s Director of Professional Certification and Training, joins host Wes Bleed to discuss the education and professional-development opportunities available to water treatment professionals through WQA. They explore WQA’s interactive instructor-led courses, topic-specific training, self-study options, webinars and certification programs. Lubner also explains why experienced professionals still benefit from structured training—and how certification can help reduce costly mistakes, strengthen customer confidence and give technicians greater confidence in the field. Learn more about joining WQA at https://wqa.org/membership.

A water test may name the contaminant, but it does not always reveal the form in which that contaminant exists—and that distinction can affect both measurement and treatment. In this episode of the Water Quality Association Podcast, Dr. Joshua Mertz, director of research and development at LaMotte Company, explains the hidden chemistry of lead, iron and manganese. Selected excerpts from a recent WQA webinar explore why detecting lead is only the beginning of the treatment question, and what the Flint water crisis demonstrates about changes in water chemistry. Learn more about the Water Quality Association at https://www.wqa.org.

Welcome to the Water Quality Association Podcast. Find us at https://wqa.org. Ethics in the water treatment industry involves more than following rules. It is reflected in how professionals test water, explain results, recommend treatment and respond when something goes wrong. Candice Wentling, MWS and director of Certified Action, joins the WQA Podcast to discuss the four A’s of professionalism. She explains the ethical gray areas that can arise in customer conversations, the difference between education and fear-based selling and how company leaders can create standards that hold up under pressure. Learn more about the WQA Code of Ethics at http://wqa.org.

Welcome to the Water Quality Association Podcast. Find us at https://wqa.org. What does a Consumer Confidence Report really tell you about your community’s drinking water? Chemical engineer, longtime water treatment consultant and WQA Hall of Fame educator Peter Cartwright, MWS, explains what these reports contain, how they relate to federal drinking water standards and why they may not answer every question a consumer has about water quality. Peter also discusses regulated and emerging contaminants, including PFAS, and explains why water treatment dealers should understand the reports issued in the communities they serve. That knowledge can help professionals answer customer questions, provide useful context and build credibility without using fear as a sales tactic. Learn more about WQA education and professional certification opportunities at https://wqa.org/education.

Welcome to the Water Quality Association Podcast. Find us at https://wqa.org. Private well customers have different needs than homeowners served by municipal water systems—and that creates a significant opportunity for water treatment professionals. In this episode, longtime Water Quality Association member, Lifetime Membership Award recipient, and WQA instructor Paul Friot (Master Water Specialist, Certified Installer, Certified Water Treatment Representative and Certified Service Technician) shares practical guidance on private well systems, water testing, inspections, maintenance, and treatment selection. He explains why well water requires a different technical approach, discusses common homeowner misconceptions, and offers advice for dealers looking to expand into this specialized market. The conversation also explores ongoing service opportunities, the importance of proper training, and why becoming a trusted advisor—not simply an equipment supplier—can lead to stronger customer relationships and long-term business growth.

Welcome to the Water Quality Association Podcast. Learn more at https://wqa.org. Artificial intelligence is changing the way businesses operate—but what does that actually look like inside a water treatment company? In this episode, host Wes Bleed talks with Mike Baird, CEO of Aquamor, about how his company is using AI agents to reduce friction, improve consistency, and support employees across multiple departments. Topics include: • What Mike means by "assisted intelligence" • How AI agents differ from simply using ChatGPT • Using AI to support customer service, operations, and reporting • The role of SOPs in successful AI implementation • Lessons learned from real-world AI deployment • Potential applications for water treatment dealers and manufacturers • Measuring ROI and organizational impact • How business leaders can stay current in a rapidly changing AI landscape Whether you're just beginning to explore AI or already experimenting with it in your business, this conversation offers practical insights from a water industry leader actively putting these tools to work.

Welcome to the Water Quality Association Podcast. Find us at https://wqa.org. Kindness in business is often viewed as a “soft skill,” but longtime water treatment leader Doug Ramer argues it may be one of the strongest competitive advantages a company can have. In this episode of The Water Quality Association Podcast, Doug joins host Wes Bleed to discuss how intentional, people-first service can strengthen customer trust, improve company culture, and help businesses stand out in an increasingly transactional world. Doug spoke on this topic at the recent WQA Convention & Expo in Miami Beach, FL. The conversation explores: The difference between politeness and true kindness Why relationships still matter in customer service How kindness impacts employee retention Balancing efficiency with meaningful customer interaction Building a culture that customers can actually feel Doug also shares practical stories from decades in the water treatment industry and explains why empowering employees to care for people creates lasting impact.

Welcome to the Water Quality Association Podcast. Find us at https://wqa.org. In this podcast, we feature highlights from the keynote session at the 2026 Water Quality Association Convention in Miami Beach. This special montage honors leadership, volunteerism, innovation, and the professionals helping shape the future of water quality. Featured segments include award recognitions, reflections on industry impact, and messages focused on service, expertise, and the importance of industry involvement. Learn more about WQA's Convention at https://wqa.org/convention.

Welcome to the Water Quality Association Podcast. Find us at https://wqa.org. In this episode, WQA President Greg Reyneke joins Susan Keaton to discuss leadership, innovation, and the future of water quality. Recorded on the expo floor at the WQA Convention & Expo in Miami Beach, this episode captures the energy of the convention and the direction of the industry. Topics include: Reyneke’s journey from engineering to global water consulting The importance of education and the WQA Code of Ethics AI as “assistive intelligence” in water treatment Opportunities in small systems and emerging technologies WQA’s 2026 priorities: credibility, relevance, and influence Learn more about becoming a WQA Member at https://wqa.org/grow/membership/ Corro-Protec, powered anode rods for water heaters trusted by water treatment professionals and WQA members across North America, and the only WQA Gold Seal-tested and -certified anode rods to NSF/ANSI/CAN 372 for SKUs 96386, 96387, and 96388, brings you today’s episode. As part of its 20th anniversary celebration, Corro-Protec presented a technical session at the WQA Convention & Expo in Miami Beach on how water softeners and anodes can affect water heater performance, including sulfur smell in hot water, corrosion, and warranty implications. If you missed it, or if you’d like a colleague to watch it, you can schedule a replay on the Corro-Protec website: https://www.corroprotec.com/wqa-expo-2026-miami-beach/?utm_source=wqa-podcast&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=WQA-podcast-2026-05&utm_term=WQA&utm_content=episode-notes

Welcome to the Water Quality Association Podcast. Find us at https://wqa.org. The WQA Convention & Expo (Miami Beach - April 28-30, 2026) is the premier gathering for water treatment professionals—and preparation is key to making the most of it. In this episode, WQA Events Director Angie Silberhorn shares practical insights to help attendees plan ahead, navigate the schedule, and maximize their experience in Miami Beach. In this episode: Why in-person interaction still matters—and what you can’t replicate online How to plan your schedule for maximum ROI What’s new this year, including expanded general sessions and roundtable discussions How to use the Convention app to schedule meetings and map your Expo strategy Tips for first-time attendees Key “don’t miss” moments, including general sessions, Expo hours, and networking events Key takeaway: The most successful attendees don’t just show up—they prepare in advance. 🔗 Learn more and plan your experience: https://wqa.org/convention This episode is brought to you by Corro-Protec, powered anode rods for water heaters trusted by water treatment professionals and WQA members across North America. As Corro-Protec celebrates 20 years in the industry, they'll be presenting a must-attend technical session at next week's WQA Convention & Expo in Miami Beach: "The Effects of Water Softeners on Water Heater Performance: Managing Odor, Corrosion & Warranty Implications in Low to High TDS Environments" As Corro-Protec celebrates 20 years in the industry, they'll be presenting a must-attend technical session at next week's WQA Convention & Expo in Miami Beach: "The Effects of Water Softeners on Water Heater Performance: Managing Odor, Corrosion & Warranty Implications in Low to High TDS Environments." https://www.corroprotec.com/wqa-expo-2026-miami-beach/?utm_source=wqa-podcast&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=WQA-podcast-2026-04&utm_term=WQA&utm_content=episode-notes Day 2: April 29, 2026 at 8:00 a.m.

What should you expect from the education program at this year’s WQA Convention? In this episode of the Water Quality Association Podcast, Tanya Lubner and John McCartan of the Water Quality Association walk through the key sessions and learning opportunities available to attendees. Topics include artificial intelligence, business strategy, technical training, roundtable discussions, and practical tips for building your schedule and earning continuing education credits. If you're planning to attend, this conversation will help you make the most of your time. Learn more at http://wqa.org/convention.

Welcome to the Water Quality Association podcast. Https://wqa.org. Small community water systems represent a major opportunity in water treatment—yet many professionals don’t realize they’re already part of it. In this episode, DJ Shannahan, MWS, joins Wes Bleed to explain how systems serving schools, campgrounds, and mobile home parks create pathways for recurring revenue, long-term service contracts, and expanded business relationships. The conversation covers licensing, real-world business examples, and the role of WQA in providing education, certification, and industry insight. Also included: a preview of the upcoming WQA Convention in Miami Beach, where small system opportunities will be a key focus. https://wqa.org/convention. Watch this podcast on YouTube: https://youtu.be/43Si0-GfCGs