Libsyn Directory

423 Pushing the Boundaries: Jacob Deak on Innovating Water Treatment Systems

Release Date: 06/06/2025

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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. ...

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...

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...

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...

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...

More Episodes

In this episode of Scaling UP! H2O, host Trace Blackmore interviews Jake Deak, Marketing & Inside Sales Director at Pyxis Lab, 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 centers around listening intently to water treatment professionals and designing products that directly solve the problems they face.

From the ST500 sensor to the OxiPanel, Jake breaks down how each product starts with a call from the field—an operator struggling with membrane fouling, or a technician frustrated by unreliable chlorine measurements. Pyxis doesn't stop at fixing problems; it uses those challenges as fuel for continuous R&D cycles, bringing hardware, firmware, and app-based solutions to life.

Innovation Through Collaboration and Core Values

The success of Pyxis Lab isn't just about technology—it's about a culture deeply rooted in empathy and real-world experience. Jacob discusses the importance of maintaining strong core values and explains how hiring practices focused on field expertise led to better tools and better service for end users.

From Product Development to Media Innovation

Leveraging his media background, Jacob also reveals the upcoming launch of Pyxis Lab’s new podcast, "In The Flow." Created to foster industry education and dialogue, this initiative underscores the company's commitment to advancing the water treatment profession through open communication and shared knowledge.

A Clear Takeaway

If there’s one message that defines this episode, it’s that the best innovations don’t begin in isolation—they begin with a conversation. Whether it’s a technician venting a daily frustration or a field team asking “what if?”, Pyxis Lab listens and acts. And as Jake reminds us, the future belongs to those who adapt, engage, and stay relentlessly curious.

Conclusion

Jacob Deak exemplifies the spirit of innovation that is reshaping the water treatment industry. Through passion, practicality, and persistence, his work at Pyxis Lab offers a compelling model for how technology and human experience can work hand in hand to create better solutions for water professionals worldwide.

Continue expanding your professional knowledge by subscribing to "Scaling UP! H2O" and exploring "In The Flow" by Pyxis Lab. Stay informed, stay innovative, and stay connected to the evolution of water treatment excellence.

Stay engaged, keep learning, and continue scaling up your knowledge!

Timestamps

02:17 – Trace Blackmore reflects on eight years of Scaling UP! H2O, building a global community for industrial water treaters

05:10 – Announcement of New Detective H2O Episodes coming for Industrial Water Week

08:04 – Upcoming Events for Water Treatment Professionals

10:15 – Water You Know with James McDonald

12:50 – Introduction to Jake Deak: Background, Family Influence, and Career Journey

16:16 – Core Values at Pyxis Lab and how they shape product development and customer relationships

17:07 – Inside the creation of the OxiPanel Plus

27:14 – Why Pyxis Lab developed a mobile app

29:37 – In the Flow, Pyxis Lab’s new education podcast series

Quotes

"When I started this podcast eight years ago, I had no idea how much it would mean to so many people." - Trace Blackmore

“If you can envision a staircase in front of you, the very first step is about ten feet tall. But once you take it, you’re on your way.” — Trace Blackmore

"We don't just create content; we create community."

"Starting is always the hardest step."

"Data is king. The more we can help operators harness their data, the better decisions they'll make."

"We’re not just adapting to change; we’re leading it."

“We are the friend to the water treater—the friend to the end user—and that has led to a lot of new acquisitions for us.” — Jacob Deak

Connect with Jake Deak

Phone: +15704197057

Email: [email protected]

Website: Inline & Handheld Analytical Tools for Water Treatment | Pyxis Lab®

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jacobddeak/

Click HERE to Download Episode’s Discussion Guide

Guest Resources Mentioned