Scuppers have evolved far beyond simple spillways.

On this episode of the Pool Magazine Podcast, Joe Trusty sits down with Frank Vitori of AquaBlu Mosaics and Chuck Nitschke of The Outdoor Plus to explore how scuppers are transforming modern pool and outdoor living design.

From sleek sheer descents and hidden linear water effects to immersive rainfall curtains and sculptural ornamental pieces, the conversation dives deep into the newest trends shaping today’s luxury backyards. The trio discusses how designers are using scuppers to create architectural rhythm, soften noise, divide entertainment spaces, add ambience, and layer water and fire features together for dramatic visual impact.

They also break down some of the biggest mistakes builders make with scuppers — including poor flow management, improper placement, leveling issues, splash-out problems, and mismatched materials — and explain what it takes to execute these features correctly.

Whether you’re a pool builder, designer, or outdoor living professional, this episode offers valuable insight into how modern water features are evolving from decorative accents into fully integrated design tools.

Topics Covered Include:

• Sheer descent scuppers and modern linear design
• Rainfall scuppers and immersive outdoor environments
• Creating ambience and masking unwanted noise
• Using scuppers to divide and define outdoor spaces
• Layering water and fire features together
• Ornamental scuppers making a comeback
• Common installation mistakes and how to avoid them
• Custom scupper applications for luxury projects

If you’re looking to elevate your pool designs and better understand where outdoor living trends are headed, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.

Read more in Pool Magazine: Scuppers are Reshaping Modern Pool Design

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What does it take to build one of the wildest backyard resorts in America?

On this episode of the Pool Magazine Podcast, we sit down with Lucas Congdon — the visionary designer behind Insane Pools and the powerhouse team at Lucas Lagoons.

Known for creating over-the-top luxury pools featuring massive waterfalls, lazy rivers, hidden grottos, swim-up bars, volcanoes, and immersive resort-style environments, Congdon discusses how his projects evolved from high-end residential pools into fully themed aquatic experiences that blur the line between backyard and destination resort.

We discuss the inspiration behind one of Lucas Lagoons’ most talked-about builds — a jaw-dropping volcano pool and lazy river project that pushes custom pool construction to another level. Lucas shares insights into the engineering challenges, creative process, rock work, water features, and what it takes to bring massive conceptual builds like this to life.

We also dive into:
• The lasting impact of Insane Pools on the swimming pool industry
• How luxury outdoor living has evolved over the last decade
• Why homeowners are demanding more immersive backyard experiences
• The logistics behind building large-scale custom water features
• What separates a true luxury pool project from a standard build
• Current trends shaping high-end pool design in 2026

If you’re into luxury pools, outrageous backyard builds, extreme craftsmanship, and the business behind some of the most recognizable pools in the country, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.

Read more in Pool Magazine: Lucas Lagoons Volcano Pool Project is Erupting With Creativity

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On this episode of the Pool Magazine Podcast, Joe Trusty sits down with Sean Gadd, President and CEO of Latham Group, for a candid conversation about the current state of the pool industry, fiberglass pool growth, shifting homeowner trends, and where the company is headed next as it celebrates its 70th anniversary.

Fresh off ringing the NASDAQ opening bell, Gadd discusses stepping into the CEO role during one of the most challenging consumer environments the industry has faced in years. The conversation explores how Latham continues gaining market share despite economic headwinds, why fiberglass pools are steadily taking share from concrete and vinyl, and how homeowners are rethinking the value of investing in their own backyard.

Joe and Sean also dive into:

• The similarities between selling pools and selling premium home improvement products
• Why the “kitchen table” sales process matters more than ever
• The growing opportunity in Southern U.S. markets dominated by gunite pools
• How Latham plans to expand awareness of fiberglass pools in sand-state markets like Florida and Texas
• The company’s acquisition of Freedom Pools in Australia and what it means for global growth
• Why automatic pool covers remain a major strategic focus moving forward
• The emotional side of pool ownership and how builders can better “sell the dream” to homeowners

It’s a deep dive into strategy, market development, consumer behavior, and the future of fiberglass pools from one of the most influential executives in the swimming pool industry today.

Read more in Pool Magazine: Inside Latham’s Playbook To Keep Winning In A Tough Pool Market

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