The WQA Podcast

Hosted by Water Quality Association

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444

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Jun 2026

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About the show

The Water Quality Association is the leading voice of the water treatment industry. wqa.org. WQA Radio features experts and members of WQA who can comment on issues affecting water quality.

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60 recent

June 3, 202626 min

#427 - The Impact of Kindness on Your Business

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.

May 20, 202618 min

#426 - Service, Innovation and Impact | 2026 WQA Convention Keynote Highlights

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.

May 6, 202631 min

#425 - More than water - A Conversation with WQA's New President

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

April 20, 202621 min

#424 - What to Know Before You Go to the WQA Convention & Expo

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.

April 8, 202617 min

#423 - Getting the Most from WQA Convention Education

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.

March 25, 202620 min

#422 -- The Hidden Opportunity in Small Community Water Systems

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

March 10, 202614 min

#421 - Tracking the Water Treatment Industry's Growth Through 2027

How does the water treatment industry move with the broader economy—and what does that mean for planning ahead? In this episode, Wes Bleed is joined by Bryanna Poczatek of the Water Quality Association and Keith Johnson of Ecowater Systems to discuss the WQA Cross-Correlation Report. They explain how industry data is correlated with external economic indicators, what the post-pandemic data reveals, and how members can use these insights to anticipate future trends. The discussion also covers 2026–2027 growth projections and how WQA members can access and apply the report. The WQA Convention & Expo is coming up April 28-30, 2026 in Miami Beach. Learn more and register at https://wqa.org/convention.

February 25, 202623 min

#420 - WQA State Gov Affairs

Welcome to the Water Quality Association Podcast. WQA Government Affairs Manager Paige O’Malley joins host Wes Bleed to discuss state-level legislative trends impacting the water treatment industry. Topics include private well legislation, school drinking water initiatives, PFAS mitigation, water softener regulation, and coalition advocacy efforts across more than 300 tracked state bills in 2025. Learn how WQA’s state engagement supports members and complements federal advocacy work. Join us in Miami Beach for the WQA Convention & Expo April 28-30, 2026. Learn more at https://wqa.org/convention.

February 18, 202626 min

#419 - WQA's Government Affairs Federal Report

Welcome to the Water Quality Association Podcast. Find us at https://wqa.org. Caroline Kenney, WQA's Government Affairs Manager, and Ted Mondloch of Current Strategies join the podcast to discuss federal policy developments impacting the water treatment industry. Topics include the Healthy H2O Act, PFAS regulations, the Lead and Copper Rule, FIFRA reform efforts, and the importance of WQA’s advocacy work in Washington. This is Part One of WQA’s ongoing review of its Government Affairs Annual Report.

February 4, 202627 min

#418 - Legacy & Leadership -- A Career in Water

As he retires from his role as Chief Operating Officer of the Water Quality Association, Tom Bruursema reflects on more than 40 years in the water treatment industry. In this conversation, Tom discusses: How the industry has matured and gained credibility The shift from “water softening” to health-focused treatment solutions The role of science, standards, and collaboration in building trust Leadership lessons learned through mentoring and industry service Opportunities ahead for the next generation of water professionals A thoughtful, forward-looking discussion with one of the industry’s most respected leaders. Plan to attend the WQA Convention & Expo in Miami Beach April 28-30, 2026. Learn more at https://wqa.org/convention.