424 Chlorine Dioxide Insights with Greg Simpson
Scaling UP! H2O
A Lifelong Exploration into Chlorine Dioxide In this episode of Scaling UP! H2O, Trace Blackmore welcomes Greg D. Simpson, a recognized authority on chlorine dioxide and a long-time researcher, writer, and technologist in the industrial water treatment space. With decades of hands-on experience and a personal archive of thousands of technical papers, Greg brings unmatched depth to this essential conversation. From Field Trials to File Cabinets Greg takes us through his early career, from being tasked to explore chlorine dioxide as an alternative disinfectant on the...
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423 Pushing the Boundaries: Jacob Deak on Innovating Water Treatment Systems
Scaling UP! H2O
In this episode of Scaling UP! H2O, host Trace Blackmore interviews , Marketing & Inside Sales Director at , for a deep dive into how innovation is born—not in labs, but in the field. Jake shares the story of Pyxis Lab’s rapid evolution from a lean, hands-on team to an industry leader in developing smart, user-informed water treatment technology. Building Solutions from Real-World Problems Jake Deak's journey began during the pandemic, stepping into a role shaped by both legacy and urgency. Working closely with his father and the Pyxis team, he reveals how their approach...
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422 Inside the Association of Water Technologies with John Caloritis
Scaling UP! H2O
In this milestone episode, host Trace Blackmore welcomes of and current President of the . Together, they explore the strategic evolution of AWT and announce an exciting new partnership that officially makes Scaling UP! H2O the association's podcast partner. This conversation is a rare behind-the-scenes look into how AWT operates, from board decisions to training initiatives, and what the future holds for water treatment professionals who want to lead, grow, and make an impact. Behind the Boardroom: How AWT Operates at the Top John Caloritis gives a full picture of how the...
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421 The Benefits of Tagged Polymers in Water Treatment with Gary Garcia
Scaling UP! H2O
“Keep it simple because the more complex things get, the less people will do it” - Gary Garcia For years, water treatment professionals have relied on PTSA tracers to estimate system performance, but emerging technologies are offering clearer, more direct answers. In this episode of Scaling UP! H2O, host Trace Blackmore welcome once again returning guest Garret "Gary" S. Garcia of , now a business unit of to explore how fluorescent tagged polymers are revolutionizing the way water treaters monitor system health and chemical performance. With decades of expertise, Gary offers practical...
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420 Tapping Into Tech: How Ben Frieders Uses AI to Elevate Water Treatment Marketing
Scaling UP! H2O
"Continue to learn something new every day.” What happens when a Navy-trained water chemistry expert dives into AI-powered marketing? You get —Marketing and Business Development Manager at —who’s turning the tide on how water treatment professionals use tech. Whether you're still skeptical of AI or already exploring tools like ChatGPT, this episode offers a masterclass in practical, professional applications tailored for the water treatment world. From the Navy to Water Treatment: Ben’s Story Ben Frieders shares his journey from operating nuclear submarines to...
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419 Leading with Purpose: Culture, Customers, and Chemical Supply with Dave Fitzgerald
Scaling UP! H2O
In this episode of Scaling UP! H2O, host Trace Blackmore reconnects with returning guest , President of North Metal & Chemical Company. Known for his forward-thinking predictions, Dave returns to share valuable insights into supply chain forecasting, emotional intelligence in leadership, and how a strong culture can shape business longevity. Purpose-Driven Predictions Dave doesn’t just react—he predicts. Learn how he turns economic signals, freight trends, and material pricing into reliable forecasting tools to protect inventory and serve loyal customers. ...
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418 Maleic Acid-Based Corrosion Inhibitors: Expanding the Water Treatment Toolbox with Mike Standish
Scaling UP! H2O
Corrosion control is fundamental to the success of any water treatment program, but how often do we question the limitations of the tools we rely on? In this episode of Scaling UP! H2O, host Trace Blackmore welcomes back returning guest , Vice President of Water Additives at , to explore the evolving role of maleic acid-based corrosion inhibitors in industrial water treatment. Drawing on decades of expertise, Mike shares practical insights into when — and when not — to use these innovative solutions to meet today's complex challenges. Understanding the Corrosion Control Toolbox Mike...
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417 How To Live a Life of Significance: Insights from Aaron Walker
Scaling UP! H2O
“ Don’t Just Be Successful – Be Significant” How do you define success? Is it about financial achievement, accolades, or influence? What if true fulfillment lies in significance rather than just success? In this episode of the Scaling Up H2O podcast, we welcome back a distinguished guest, . With over four decades of entrepreneurial experience, Aaron has not only built thriving businesses but has also dedicated his life to mentoring others, helping them navigate their paths with purpose. His belief that "Relationships Matter Most" is a guiding principle for those seeking deeper...
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416 The SteriPen Revisited: Scaling UP! Your UV Digestion Knowledge
Scaling UP! H2O
“Always test your tools before field use. Side-by-side comparisons ensure repeatability and accuracy.” In this episode of Scaling UP! H2O, host delivers an in-depth update on the SteriPen, a widely used tool for water treatment professionals. After overwhelming demand from listeners, we revisit the SteriPen, its capabilities, and its impact on testing organic phosphates and azoles. If you're looking for efficiency, precision, and portability in water testing, this episode is packed with actionable insights. The Evolution of the SteriPen Learn how the SteriPen became a game-changer...
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415 Green Building Updates: What You Need to Know
Scaling UP! H2O
“When there’s a will, there’s a way.” - Charlie Cichetti Sustainability is more than just a trend—it’s a commitment to a better future. In this episode of Scaling UP! H2O, host Trace Blackmore sits down with , LEED Fellow + WELL AP, CEO + Co-Founder of a leading expert in green building to discuss the latest updates in sustainability and how they impact industries worldwide. From energy efficiency to new LEED requirements, Charlie breaks down what professionals need to know about the latest green building innovations. Whether you’re a facilities manager, an industrial...
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Welcome to 2025! Episode 401 of the Scaling Up H2O Podcast is here to help you kick-start the new year with valuable insights, energy-saving tips, and strategies for personal and professional growth. Host Trace Blackmore explores how small changes, like switching to LED lighting or investing in solar power, can save energy and cut costs for National Cut Energy Costs Day. He also dives deep into effective planning methods, the importance of relationships, and how to maximize your potential in 2025.
National Cut Energy Costs Day
Learn practical ways to reduce energy usage at home and work, from switching to LED lighting and upgrading HVAC systems to exploring solar power installations. Trace also shares how his team utilizes energy audits for increased efficiency.
Planning for 2025 Success
Discover actionable strategies for effective planning, including prioritizing big goals (the "big rocks") and aligning your weekly schedule with your most important tasks.
Nurturing Relationships for Long-Term Success
Trace shares heartfelt advice from his grandfather about the value of relationships and how they surpass everything else in importance. He encourages listeners to reflect on their roles and take actionable steps to improve their connections.
This episode is packed with resources for water treatment professionals, including updates on AWT events, Certified Water Technologist (CWT) prep courses, and actionable tools to help you raise the bar in the water industry. Whether you’re looking for tips to improve your work-life balance or stay ahead in your field, this episode is your comprehensive guide to success in 2025.
Stay engaged, keep learning, and continue scaling up your knowledge!
Timestamps:
05:20 - Trace Blackmore shares an Overview of National Cut Energy Costs Day and the importance of Conserving energy and water
21:32 - Water You Know with James McDonald
45:19 - Upcoming Events for Water Treatment Professionals
Connect with Scaling UP! H2O
Submit a show idea: Submit a Show Idea
LinkedIn: in/traceblackmore/
YouTube: @ScalingUpH2O
Click HERE to Download Episode's Discussion Guide
Scaling UP! H2O Resources Mentioned
Audible (free month with this link)
AWT (Association of Water Technologies)
Scaling UP! H2O Academy video courses
Submit a Show Idea
The Rising Tide Mastermind
397 Pinks and Blues: How to look at your tests
394 Visibility and Value: Enhancing Sustainability in Water Treatment
360 Unlocking Profitable Sustainability: Winning RFPs and Making a Positive Impact
339 Jane Kucera’s Reverse Osmosis Masterclass
363 Pricing Boost: Get Paid Well For Your Excellence
375 Legionella Awareness: Your Questions Answered by Trace Blackmore
Big Rocks by Stephen R. Covey
Water You Know with James McDonald
Question: What is the approximate pH where phenolphthalein changes between pink and clear?
2025 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.
