420 Tapping Into Tech: How Ben Frieders Uses AI to Elevate Water Treatment Marketing
Release Date: 05/16/2025
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...
info_outlineScaling 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...
info_outlineScaling 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...
info_outlineScaling 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...
info_outlineScaling 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...
info_outlineScaling 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. ...
info_outlineScaling 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...
info_outlineScaling 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...
info_outlineScaling 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...
info_outlineScaling 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...
info_outline"Continue to learn something new every day.”
What happens when a Navy-trained water chemistry expert dives into AI-powered marketing? You get Ben Frieders—Marketing and Business Development Manager at ChemREADY—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 leading marketing at ChemREADY. His technical background in water chemistry uniquely shaped how he approaches strategy, and service.
The Power of Rising Tide Mastermind
Ben explains how a peer group like Rising Tide transformed his professional growth—giving him weekly accountability, mentorship, and a place to talk shop without explanation.
AI in Action: Real Tools, Real Impact
Ben discusses how ChemREADY uses:
- ChatGPT for blog and email creation
- Sora to generate custom videos
- 11 Labs to automate audio narration
- And more, all while respecting quality control and intellectual property
Prompt Engineering Tips from a Pro
Ben offers his personal playbook for building effective prompts—from defining identity and goals to making AI ask you the right questions. He even shares how to make AI generate its own prompt for best results.
AI for Technical Data Analysis
Learn how Ben’s team uploads water treatment reports into ChatGPT to uncover trends, troubleshoot issues, and build insight-driven recommendations for clients.
Balancing Trust and Tech
Ben emphasizes that AI is just a tool—not a replacement for professionals. He shares how he uses AI to amplify strategy, not replace human judgment.
AI isn’t a shortcut—it’s a skill. Whether you're in sales, marketing, service, or strategy, learning how to prompt and guide AI tools will set you apart in the water treatment industry.
Curious how your peers are using AI? Share your go-to tools and discoveries with us on LinkedIn. And if you haven't yet, sign up for our newsletter to get bonus content and tools that go beyond the episode.
Stay engaged, keep learning, and continue scaling up your knowledge!
Timestamps
01:51 – Trace Blackmore shares insights on building client relationships, the value of communication, and recognizing your role in the water treatment industry
07:02 – Water You Know with James McDonald
08:26 – Upcoming Events for Water Treatment Professionals
09:01 – Interview with Ben Frieders, Marketing and Business Development Manager at ChemREADY
20:40 – How ChemREADY uses AI tools in Marketing
37:17 – Using AI in Technical Operations – data interpretation and client analysis
Quotes
“AI is still just a tool. It's not the end all be all—you still need to continually modify the output.”
“Once you learn how to talk to AI, it becomes more of your friend and not your enemy.”
“The more details the better. Precision of language gives you the first best chance to get the output you want.”
“Start slow, experience the models, and see how AI is going to work best for you.”
Connect with Ben Frieders
Phone: (317) 719-1452
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://www.getchemready.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benjaminfrieders/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/getchemready/
Click HERE to download Episode’s Discussion Guide
Guest Resources Mentioned
I said this, You Heard That by Kathleen Edelman
A Grown-Up's Guide To Kids' Wiring by Kathleen Edelman
Scaling UP! H2O Resources Mentioned
Scaling UP! H2O Academy video courses
Scaling UP! H2O’s Newsletter Sign Up
Never Split the Difference: Negotiating as if Your Life Depended on It
402 Game Changing AI Tools: Matt Montellione's Insights
Water You Know with James McDonald
Question: What do you call the device commonly used to measure the percentage of salt in a softener brine solution?
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.