Luxury Outdoor Living Podcast

Thanks for tuning into another episode of the Luxury Outdoor Living podcast. Today, Mike and Trey Farley interview Paul Hale of Crossville Studios, a U.S.-based tile manufacturer, about his path from pool service and sales in Oklahoma to leading Crossville’s eastern pool and outdoor region in Florida. Paul explains Crossville’s origins and expansion from commercial porcelain manufacturing into distribution and the pool market. The discussion covers key homeowner topics: porcelain vs. ceramic (porcelain is <0.5% water absorption, more stain/UV resistant, and frost-proof), how to verify suitability via product fact sheets, and why large-format tile reduces grout-joint problems. They address outdoor slip resistance using DCOF ratings, rectified edges for tighter grout joints, drainage options including linear drains and pedestal systems, heat considerations tied to color, and common “pool crimes” such as using non–pool-rated tile. Paul also describes HideASkimmer lids and shares personal favorites and travel inspiration.

Connect with us and discover more:

https://www.farleypooldesigns.com/
https://www.youtube.com/@MikeFarleyDesigns
https://www.instagram.com/farleydesigns/
https://www.instagram.com/luxuryoutdoorlivingpodcast/

Watch episodes on YouTube:
https://www.youtube.com/@MikeFarleyDesigns/podcasts

00:00 Welcome to the Podcast 01:17 Meet Paul Hale 02:07 Paul’s Pool Industry Journey 05:26 How Crossville Began 08:49 Crossville Enters Pools 09:45 Porcelain vs Ceramic Basics 13:30 Large Format Tile Explained 17:12 Choosing Pool Rated Tile 19:41 Indoor Outdoor and Slip Ratings 22:09 Dekton and Sintered Porcelain 23:27 What Makes Crossville Different 25:55 Finding Qualified Installers 28:30 Rectified Edges and Grout Lines 31:29 Tile Size Limits in Pools 32:25 Tall Wall Considerations 32:49 Porcelain Heat Myths 35:07 Maintenance Versus Staining 37:24 Pavers Popularity Trends 40:39 Drainage And Pedestals 45:08 Choosing Pool Rated Tile 46:49 Common Pool Tile Mistakes 50:32 Hide Skimmer Lid Upgrade 53:39 Where To Buy Samples 55:05 Rapid Fire Wrap Up 57:11 Show Mission Closing

Listeners are invited to send in questions about anything regarding outdoor living. In this episode Mike and Trey Farley respond to Sarah from Kingwood, Texas about designing backyard pools for lap swimming and competitive-style training. They distinguish exercise pools from competition-focused pools and discuss common lengths (around 39–45 feet, with longer options including 75 feet and 25 meters) and how finishes affect precise dimensions. They cover width considerations (often 8–10 feet, up to 16 feet for two lanes), water temperature targets and heating/cooling options, and ways to reduce turbulence such as perimeter overflow gutters and tensioned racing lane lines with proper stainless anchors. They address lane markings, turn/target surfaces, recommended depths (generally deeper than 3 feet, often around 4.5 feet), and note starting blocks are typically for commercial facilities. They emphasize engineering for long, narrow shells to prevent cracking, plus circulation strategies like floor returns and variable-speed pumps, and mention alternatives like Endless Pools/Fastlane, Riverflow, BaduJet, and swim tethers, along with resale and multi-use design considerations.

https://www.farleypooldesigns.com/
https://www.youtube.com/@MikeFarleyDesigns
https://www.instagram.com/farleydesigns/
https://www.instagram.com/luxuryoutdoorlivingpodcast/

Watch episodes on YouTube:
https://www.youtube.com/@MikeFarleyDesigns/podcasts

00:00 Podcast Welcome 01:12 Listener Question Setup 02:44 Exercise vs Competition 03:09 Ideal Pool Lengths 05:57 Precision Competition Specs 07:44 Choosing Pool Width 11:04 Heating and Temperature Control 12:59 Covers Domes Enclosures 17:46 Reducing Turbulence Waves 20:18 Lane Lines and Anchors 21:54 Skimmers Circulation Safety 22:39 Lane Markings Visual Cues 25:06 Wall Targets Traction 26:44 Depth For Flip Turns 28:42 Diving Blocks Rules 30:55 Engineering Long Lanes 34:46 Tolerances Turbulence 36:51 Endless Pools Currents 41:00 Tethers Water Workouts 43:33 Resale Design Appeal 46:54 Wrap Up Listener Support

In this episode of Luxury Outdoor Living Podcast we interview Joe Raboine, VP of Design for Oldcastle APG, who shares his path from contractor to manufacturer and discusses Oldcastle’s “Live Well Outside” focus on designing outdoor spaces for daily health and wellness. We cover how outdoor living has shifted from a “nice-to-have” to a “need-to-have,” the rise of outdoor kitchens, micro-space design strategies, and modular prefab “Elements” kitchens and fireplaces that speed installation. Joe explains Oldcastle’s family of brands (including Belgard, Sakrete, Techniseal, PebbleTec, RDI Railings, and Catalyst Fence), the importance of coordinated color palettes, and trends like larger pavers, warmer tones, organic textures, and varied patterns. Sustainability topics include concrete recyclability, local sourcing, and permeable pavers for storm water management. Joe advises homeowners to start with a solid design, budget, and drainage plan.

Watch episodes on YouTube:
https://www.youtube.com/@MikeFarleyDesigns/podcasts

Connect with us and discover more:

https://www.farleypooldesigns.com/
https://www.youtube.com/@MikeFarleyDesigns
https://www.instagram.com/farleydesigns/
https://www.instagram.com/luxuryoutdoorlivingpodcast/

Our guest:

https://www.oldcastleapg.com/

https://www.instagram.com/oldcastleapg/

00:00 Podcast Welcome 01:34 Meet Joe Reboyne 02:33 From Contractor to VP 06:00 Live Well Outside 10:00 Oldcastle Brand Family 12:35 Outdoor Living Is Essential 15:41 Color Cohesion Strategy 17:52 Modular Elements Fast Builds 24:24 Designing Micro Spaces 30:50 Micro Outdoor Spaces 31:36 Decks Meet Hardscape 33:02 Indoor Outdoor Transitions 36:36 Design Trends From Europe 41:39 Sustainability And Water 43:50 Permeable Pavers Explained 48:12 Belgard Product Overview 50:55 Modular Paver System 52:16 Homeowner Planning Advice 55:08 Rapid Fire Personal Q&A 58:20 Wrap Up And Contact Info 59:36 Podcast Mission Statement

The Luxury Outdoor Living podcast welcomes Megan Magana, show manager for the annual Pool Spa Patio Expo, a yearly show for pool, spa and deck professionals. It's being held in New Orleans, this year 2026, on November (Nov. 17–19) and returning to Las Vegas next year. Megan shares her career path into trade shows and explains the expo’s three pillars—education, networking, and products—offering certification courses, classroom sessions, and hands-on show-floor demos, plus 350+ exhibitors across pools, spas, patios, outdoor kitchens, and the co-located Deck Expo. The conversation emphasizes why homeowners should value builders who attend shows for updated product, code, and design knowledge, and how in-person connections and demos can’t be replicated online. They discuss awards, the new First Look Pavilion, Pool Nation hands-on training, and the Million Dollar Pool Design Challenge with live voting and a $10,000 prize.

Connect with us and discover more:

https://www.farleypooldesigns.com/
https://www.youtube.com/@MikeFarleyDesigns
https://www.instagram.com/farleydesigns/
https://www.instagram.com/luxuryoutdoorlivingpodcast/

Watch episodes on YouTube:
https://www.youtube.com/@MikeFarleyDesigns/podcasts

Our Guest:

https://www.poolspapatio.com/

https://www.youtube.com/@PoolSpaPatioExpo

00:00 Podcast Welcome 01:17 Meet Megan Magana 01:49 How Trade Shows Work 02:20 Megan Career Path 04:33 Trade Show War Stories 05:38 Joining Informa 07:51 Why Homeowners Care 09:34 Awards And First Show 11:16 Three Pillars Of Expo 13:25 Lazy River Lesson 18:00 In Person Beats Online 22:38 Classes And Speakers 25:32 Million Dollar Challenge 26:35 Design Challenge Format 27:23 Finalists Live Judging 30:35 Tools Not Renderings 32:06 Who Should Attend 36:58 Why Classes Aren't Recorded 38:33 Hands On Show Floor 40:46 Career Growth Stories 42:13 Beyond Pools Outdoors 44:50 Show Schedule Grind 46:02 Keep Learning Mindset 49:07 Rapid Fire Questions 51:03 Podcast Wrap Up

Mike and Trey Farley discuss why sunken fire pits are popular—shelter from wind, increased privacy, warmer heat retention, quieter and more personal conversation—and what makes them succeed or fail. They explain depth options (from shallow 12-inch drops to ~36 inches for real comfort), typical sizing for 6–8 people, efficient bench layouts, and practical clearances (often 24 inches between bench and fire). Major drivers are cost and construction complexity, especially structural walls and drainage, preferably gravity to daylight or otherwise a sump pump. They cover safety and utility considerations for luxury builds with gas/propane ignition, ventilation differences, and why wood-burning pits need fire brick. Comfort details include pitched bench backs, cushion sizing, and lighting for steps and toe-kicks. They also touch on location near pools/spas, acrylic pool windows, and examples from designers like Jesse Kalamingo and Ryan Hughes, then invite topic/guest suggestions and note their upcoming International Pool Show & Spa trip.

Connect and discover more:

https://www.farleypooldesigns.com/
https://www.youtube.com/@MikeFarleyDesigns
https://www.instagram.com/farleydesigns/
https://www.instagram.com/luxuryoutdoorlivingpodcast/

Watch episodes on YouTube:
https://www.youtube.com/@MikeFarleyDesigns/podcasts

00:00 Podcast Welcome 01:31 Why Sunken Fire Pits 02:40 Comfort And Privacy 05:18 Depth And Cost 08:18 Drainage Essentials 11:19 Gravity Vs Sump Pumps 13:30 Sizing And Seating 16:14 Shapes And Clearances 20:31 Benches And Cushions 25:22 Location By Pool And Spa 27:55 TVs And Privacy Screens 29:16 Water Walls And Quiet Sound 30:41 Fireplace Chimneys And Smokeless Options 32:16 Propane Safety And Venting 33:51 DIY Builds And Fire Brick 35:11 Materials Food Mess And Cushions 37:58 Lighting Strip Lights And Steps 39:44 Ignition Choices And Fire Pit Products 42:17 Benches Flexibility And Cost Factors 43:43 Soil Piers And Phasing Builds 47:46 Personal Favorites Q And A 52:21 Future Topics Events And Wrap Up

Pots can enhance your luxury outdoor space by unifying design elements and adding durable planters, fire features, and water accents. Mike and Trey Farley of Farley Pool Designs interview Tim Hall of Archpot, a Southern California manufacturer of handmade, made-to-order GFRC (glass fiber reinforced concrete) architectural site furnishings including planters, fire bowls, fire-water bowls, water bowls, and fire tables. Tim explains Archpot’s shift from importing high-end terracotta to lighter, more durable GFRC, its performance in freeze-thaw and extreme heat, and the importance of quality, trusted vendors, and realistic expectations about customization. They cover planning needs for large vessels (drainage, irrigation, conduit, lighting), why saucers are avoided, Archpot’s ~20 finishes, timeless styles like the Legacy series, and fire feature engineering (support plates, ignition systems, burner types, media options, wind performance, and optional windscreens), plus nationwide shipping and ways to contact Archpot.

Discover more and connect with us:

https://www.farleypooldesigns.com/
https://www.youtube.com/@MikeFarleyDesigns
https://www.instagram.com/farleydesigns/
https://www.instagram.com/luxuryoutdoorlivingpodcast/

Watch our episodes on YouTube:
https://www.youtube.com/@MikeFarleyDesigns/podcasts

Discover more and connect with our guest:

https://archpot.com/

00:00 Welcome to the Podcast 01:17 Meet Tim Hall Archpot 02:06 From Importer to GFRC 03:18 Why GFRC Beats Precast 04:05 Custom Work and Quality 07:48 Shipping and Finish Options 09:15 Matching Planters and Fire 11:02 Choosing Styles and Sizes 14:28 Planning for Giant Pots 18:00 Timeless and New Finishes 20:26 Fire Features Visual vs Heat 22:17 Why Fire Bowls Crack 23:03 Proper Fire Bowl Build 24:18 Support Plate Basics 24:51 From Planters to Plug and Play 26:23 Fire Tables vs Fire Bowls 27:29 Toe Kick Design Details 29:15 Burners and Media Coverage 31:23 Wind Performance and Windscreens 33:19 Fire Media Options Explained 37:46 Fire Bowl Styles and Colors 38:57 Adding Water Features 42:04 Contact Info and Wrap Up

Mike and Trey Farley host the Luxury Outdoor Living Podcast and interview Wellington Gomez of New Jersey, a Brazil-born builder who started in hardscaping and landscaping, then began building pools after repeated issues managing unreliable pool subcontractors. Gomez describes focusing on full-scope luxury outdoor environments, emphasizing client collaboration based on lifestyle, entertaining style, and cultural background, and discusses New Jersey’s proximity to New York City and four-season climate. He highlights industry education through Master Pool Guild, Watershape, and Genesis, and supports stronger pool-builder licensing. Gomez explains typical Northeast winterization versus his push to keep pools open year-round using heated, redundant equipment setups, indoor equipment rooms, automatic covers, generators, and radiant heat/boiler integration. He shares design preferences such as extensive fire features, upgraded Wet Edge finishes, and black spa accents, and warns against poorly installed outdoor porcelain in freeze-thaw climates. Discover more and connect with us:

https://www.farleypooldesigns.com/
https://www.youtube.com/@MikeFarleyDesigns
https://www.instagram.com/farleydesigns/
https://www.instagram.com/luxuryoutdoorlivingpodcast/

Watch episodes on YouTube:
https://www.youtube.com/@MikeFarleyDesigns/podcasts

Our Guest:

https://sjpoolsandlandscaping.com/

00:00 Podcast Welcome 01:12 Meet the Hosts and Guest 01:36 Wellington’s Origin Story 04:05 From Pavers to Pools 06:22 Full Service Luxury Builds 08:43 Lessons From a Pool Float 11:13 Client Collaboration Philosophy 12:58 Life and Work in North Jersey 16:52 Training and Industry Standards 22:22 Year Round Pools in Snow 27:45 Winter Pool Engineering Setup 29:40 Dual Equipment Setup 31:13 Keeping Pools Open 31:53 Winterizing Reality Check 35:17 Freeze Protection Basics 38:18 Why Add Fire 41:51 Designing the Backyard 46:32 Where Not to Cut 47:42 Bold Black Spa 50:52 Trends That Age Badly 52:03 Rapid Fire Favorites 54:29 Travel for Inspiration 57:26 Four Season Comfort 01:00:08 Closing Thoughts

Organic, natural pools with boulders and waterfalls can create a true outdoor retreat, but they demand serious artistry and engineering to be safe, efficient, and long-lasting. Mike and Trey Farley host Lucas Congdon of Lucas Lagoons, who recounts growing up in Vermont doing stonework, leaving Montana State to build hands-on, and moving to Florida where a first pool remodel led him to start Lucas Lagoons. Lucas explains learning engineering the hard way after a rock-heavy project failed, why he uses site-specific engineering and geotechnical reports, and how soils, drainage, plumbing efficiency, and equipment sizing shape complex builds. He details natural vs artificial rock risks, manifold and pump setups for grottos, and a notable speakeasy pool with 48 tons of ceiling rock pinned into a post-tension slab and X-rayed. He also discusses his contractor programs, the realities of reality TV production, and travel inspirations. Discover more and connect with us: https://www.farleypooldesigns.com/
https://www.youtube.com/@MikeFarleyDesigns
https://www.instagram.com/farleydesigns/
https://www.instagram.com/luxuryoutdoorlivingpodcast/ Watch episodes with stunning visuals on YouTube:
https://www.youtube.com/@MikeFarleyDesigns/podcasts Discover more about Lucas Lagoons: https://lucaslagoons.com/ https://www.youtube.com/user/LucasLagoons https://www.instagram.com/lucaslagoons/ 00:00 Podcast Welcome 01:17 Meet Lucas Congdon 01:47 Vermont Roots 03:33 Stonework Lessons 05:45 Montana State Detour 07:04 Finding Pools in Florida 11:12 Engineering Excellence 17:48 Geotech and Site Plans 21:33 Mastering Rockwork 28:23 Grotto Plumbing Setup 35:00 Speakeasy Pool Story 37:46 X-Rayed Rock Reinforcement 38:30 Hand Placed Boulders 39:03 Born Talent Or Trained 42:51 Hillside Pool Engineering 46:04 Texas Soil And Clay 47:59 Travel Inspiration And History 50:11 Design Changes And 3D 54:16 Insane Pools Cast Update 56:28 Scaling Signature Series 58:24 Reality TV Behind Scenes 01:02:35 Rapid Fire Favorites 01:05:13 Closing Thanks And Mission

Discovering next level shade in luxury outdoor living, Mike Farley hosts the Luxury Outdoor Living podcast (without co-host Trey, who is sick) and interviews Derek of Umbra Solace about engineered, contractor-supplied aluminum shade structures. Derek shares his path from storm restoration (2001) to founding and selling Hamilton Steele (2008), starting Outdoor Elements, shifting toward commercial multifamily renovations, then focusing on Umbra Solace to bring commercial-grade systems to homeowners. Umbra Solace sells wholesale to contractors and provides general engineering and training, not direct pricing or DIY kits. They discuss product options beyond louvers—arbors/pergolas, cabanas with walls, solid-roof “Perfect Panel” polyurethane/galvalume panels with wood-sublimated tongue-and-groove ceilings, and cantilever/double cantilever designs up to 14x16 and 18x16. Topics include footing tables, hidden fasteners, maintenance vs. wood, coastal corrosivity, integrated low-voltage lighting with built-in conduit, screen/fan accommodations, hail resilience, and an upcoming gable-roof configuration.

Discover more and connect:

https://umbrasolace.com/

https://www.farleypooldesigns.com/
https://www.youtube.com/@MikeFarleyDesigns
https://www.instagram.com/farleydesigns/
https://www.instagram.com/luxuryoutdoorlivingpodcast/

Watch episodes on YouTube:
https://www.youtube.com/@MikeFarleyDesigns/podcasts

Ponds, fountains and natural pools can transform luxury outdoor living into a daily retreat, and in this Luxury Outdoor Living Podcast episode, Mike and Trey Farley of Farley Pool Designs interview Diego of Fontana Ponds & Water Features, an Aquascape Master Certified contractor and Aquascape Artist of the Year. Diego shares his path from landscaping to specializing in ecosystem ponds and water features, explains his client-first process (aligning goals, discussing budgets early, marking layouts with spray paint, detailed drawings, and adapting designs during installation), and contrasts pond types including pondless waterfalls, koi ponds, and recreation swim ponds (which require increased biological filtration such as constructed wetlands). He discusses local stone sourcing, misconceptions like mosquitoes and required pond depth, maintenance offerings (bi-weekly to quarterly plus annual clean-outs), notable large projects including a retirement facility rebuild, and collaborations such as work in Africa and upcoming builds in Utah.

Discover more and connect:

https://fontanawaterfeatures.ca/

https://www.farleypooldesigns.com/
https://www.youtube.com/@MikeFarleyDesigns
https://www.instagram.com/farleydesigns/
https://www.instagram.com/luxuryoutdoorlivingpodcast/

Watch episodes on YouTube:
https://www.youtube.com/@MikeFarleyDesigns/podcasts

00:00 Podcast Welcome 01:42 Meet Diego Fontana 02:29 From Landscaping to Ponds 04:46 Where to See Work 06:42 Design Process Explained 12:09 Artist of the Year 14:08 Aquascape System Basics 17:23 Feature Types Overview 23:08 Pondless Waterfalls 24:40 Biggest Builds Stories 32:34 Small Spaces Big Impact 34:11 Sound Versus Visuals 34:43 Design From Indoors 36:49 Landscaping Makes Ponds 38:28 Choosing Local Stone 41:25 Pond Maintenance Plans 44:07 Ponds Improve With Age 45:57 Common Pond Misconceptions 48:42 Future Goals And Growth 51:10 Big Collaborations And Travel 54:27 Resale Value And Repeat Clients 59:53 Rapid Fire Favorites 01:02:29 Inspiration And Family Wrap 01:04:09 Podcast Mission Outro

Luxury outdoor cooking is evolving beyond gas grills and ceramic kamados into architectural live-fire ovens designed for performance, aesthetics, and experience. Mike and Trey Farley host Bobby Brennan, former co-founder of Kamado Joe and founder of Emberhaus, who explains how his corporate exit led to building Kamado Joe and later creating Emberhaus to bring restaurant-style charcoal ovens into luxury residential outdoor kitchens. Brennan describes Emberhaus as a versatile charcoal oven (200–900°F) that grills, smokes, and bakes with faster cook times, high capacity, precise airflow control, easy ash removal, dishwasher-safe cooking surfaces, and a more intimate “fire” experience. The oven is American-made in Athens, Georgia, uses 316 marine-grade stainless and high-temp Cerakote coatings, offers 16 standard colors plus custom options, and targets designers, architects, and builders through showrooms.

Discover more and connect with us:

https://www.emberhaus.com/

https://www.farleypooldesigns.com/
https://www.youtube.com/@MikeFarleyDesigns
https://www.instagram.com/farleydesigns/
https://www.instagram.com/luxuryoutdoorlivingpodcast/

Watch episodes on YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/@MikeFarleyDesigns/podcasts

00:00 Podcast Welcome 01:12 Meet The Guest 02:06 From Corporate To Startup 05:29 Building Kamado Joe 07:37 Scaling And Selling 09:47 What Is Emberhaus 12:15 Cooking Experience And Personas 15:02 First Cook Tips 16:58 Kamado Joe Improvements 19:55 Designing For Luxury Homes 24:19 User Friendly Innovations 26:50 Efficiency And Outdoor Kitchens 28:46 Replacing Other Appliances 30:42 Marine Grade Materials 31:52 Maintenance And Longevity 32:59 Install Height And Cutout 34:00 Vent Hood And Pricing 35:53 Brand Strategy And Showrooms 38:12 Awareness And Safety Insulation 40:15 Versus The Green Egg 43:01 Kitchen Layout And Cart 46:32 Colors Trim And Customization 48:06 Why Rectangular Design 50:32 Ten Year Vision 52:27 Rapid Fire Questions 56:06 Show Wrap And Mission

How can maintenance-free plants help you create a realistic, low-effort outdoor oasis? Mike and Trey Farley host the Luxury Outdoor Living Podcast and interview Jason, president and co-owner of Desert Steel in Wichita, Kansas, about the company’s handcrafted steel desert plants used as realistic, maintenance-free landscape accents. Jason shares Desert Steel’s origins from artist Eric Carroll making steel saguaros for art shows and how the business evolved into durable landscaping replacements made from galvanized steel with a patina oxidation process (no paint) to prevent fading and minimize rust, with guidance to avoid moisture-holding mulch at the base. They discuss popular products (saguaros, agaves), internal lighting options and torch features, shipping and easy assembly, wind resistance with recommended concrete pads, indoor/commercial uses, slight patina variation, and a free design service creating digital renderings. Jason notes increased demand tied to wildfire “Zone Zero” rules, mentions limited customization, upcoming foxtail agave launch in October, and ordering via desertsteel.net.

Discover more and connect:

https://desertsteel.net/

https://www.farleypooldesigns.com/
https://www.youtube.com/@MikeFarleyDesigns
https://www.instagram.com/farleydesigns/
https://www.instagram.com/luxuryoutdoorlivingpodcast/

00:00 Podcast Welcome 01:12 Meet The Hosts 01:46 Guest Introduction 02:21 Jason’s Origin Story 04:48 Desert Steel Beginnings 07:43 Maintenance Free Concept 09:47 Materials And Patina 10:55 Best Sellers And Use Cases 14:43 Installation And Base Tips 16:21 Indoor Design Ideas 20:03 Shipping And Storm Proofing 24:35 Safety And Realism Details 29:11 Lighting And Torch Features 32:08 Finish Care And Salt Air 34:20 Sprinkler Mineral Stains 34:41 Choosing The Right Sizes 36:57 Patina Color Variations 38:27 Steel Origami Process 40:05 Design Service Renderings 43:24 Lighting And Planter Hacks 49:48 Wildfire Zone Zero Demand 54:24 Custom Projects And Odd Requests 57:38 Why Buy Desert Steel 01:01:23 How To Order And Wrap Up

On today's episode Mike Farley is joined by guest Hunter Gary of H2 Outdoor Living from Middle Tennessee, to discuss how Hunter entered pool design and launched his design firm three years ago and a newer build/GC arm. They focus on why detailed construction and hydraulic plans matter to prevent costly, hard-to-fix underground plumbing problems and to ensure apples-to-apples bidding. The epsiode outline homeowner red flags and checkpoints, including clean, well-laid-out equipment pads, photo documentation, flow meters, and builders who can explain pump curves and turnover rates. They emphasize larger plumbing, variable-speed pumps, cartridge filters, proper circulation, quieter systems, safety/entrapment avoidance, Venturi skimmers, in-floor returns/cleaning, and correct design of perimeter overflows and vanishing-edge basins, including surge capacity and filtration/sanitation.

Discover more and connect:

https://h2outdoorliving.com/

https://www.farleypooldesigns.com/
https://www.youtube.com/@MikeFarleyDesigns
https://www.instagram.com/farleydesigns/
https://www.instagram.com/luxuryoutdoorlivingpodcast/

Watch episodes on YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/@MikeFarleyDesigns/podcasts

00:00 Podcast intro 01:17 Meet Hunter Gary 02:07 How He Started 03:44 From Service to Design 07:41 Million Dollar Challenge 08:43 Launching His Company 10:20 Design Process Explained 12:41 Why Working Drawings Matter 15:41 Hydraulics Intro 17:54 Equipment Pad Clues 20:14 Photos and Hydraulic Plans 24:40 Circulation and Filtration 29:23 Pipe Sizing and Efficiency 34:15 Noise and Suction Lines 36:58 Pumps for Water Features 39:58 Turnover and Flow Meters 41:11 Flow Meters and Turnover 42:35 Venturi Skimmers Explained 43:49 Main Drains vs Skimmers 44:51 Service Knowledge Pitfalls 48:12 Hydraulics Are Just Math 50:22 Perimeter Overflow Returns 52:51 In Floor Circulation Systems 54:31 Vanishing Edge Basin Design 58:17 Equipment Pad and Expansion 59:40 Elevation and Split Equipment 01:01:29 Entrapment Safety and Drains 01:04:20 Budgeting and Spare Lines 01:08:27 Personal Q and A Wrap Up 01:12:06 Final Thanks and Mission

In this episode we interview Jon Driscoll, founder of Backyard Butler (launched 2018), which provides recurring “white glove” cleaning and maintenance for luxury outdoor living spaces in Dallas–Fort Worth—filling a gap not covered by gardeners, pool cleaners, or housekeepers. Jon explains service frequency options, party-prep cleanings, and a detailed checklist covering patios, furniture, outdoor kitchens, grills, heaters, and more, aiming to deliver a “Four Seasons” experience at home. The episode covers materials and maintenance insights: Sunbrella fabrics clean best; porcelain paving is easiest while exposed aggregate and some stones are difficult; efflorescence can be treated but plant-pot mineral stains can be nearly impossible; turf is maintained via power-brooming and deodorizing; granite counters and non-porous backsplashes clean best; drains, hose bibs, outlets, sealed lighting, and easy-clean materials improve long-term upkeep. Jon discusses seasonality, common stains (notably crape myrtle), a sealing mishap that ended their sealing services, notable transformations, and Backyard Butler’s plans to franchise.

Discover more and connect:

https://www.backyardbutler.net/

https://www.farleypooldesigns.com/
https://www.youtube.com/@MikeFarleyDesigns
https://www.instagram.com/farleydesigns/
https://www.instagram.com/luxuryoutdoorlivingpodcast/

00:00 Podcast Welcome 01:17 Meet the Hosts 01:37 Guest Intro Backyard Butler 02:05 Why Outdoor Cleaning Matters 03:52 Recurring vs Event Cleanings 05:55 White Glove Standard 06:37 Best Fabrics Sunbrella 08:22 Post Build Priorities 10:19 Pavers and Surface Choices 12:04 Efflorescence and Stains 14:58 Synthetic Turf Maintenance 18:38 Heaters and Outdoor Fixtures 20:02 Cleaning Without Damage 22:34 Stainless and Cabinet Care 26:05 Outdoor Countertop Materials 28:02 Granite vs Dekton 28:53 Backsplash Grease Fixes 30:32 Seasonal Demand Shifts 31:51 Decking and Wood Limits 34:23 Design for Easy Upkeep 36:55 Sealer Nightmare Story 40:46 Wild Backyard Features 44:55 Pollen and Storm Cleanup 46:42 Worst Stains and Trees 48:03 Contact and Wrap Up

Welcome to another episode of the Luxury Outdoor Living Podcast. Today Mike and Trey Farley interview Ryan Walta of Southern Comfort Bed Swings, who describes starting the business 16 years ago after building a better-looking bed swing for his wife and then receiving orders from guests at their rented lake house. Ryan explains how early demand grew quickly through magazine ads, leading from basement production to a showroom and a high-end custom brand using teak, powder-coated aluminum, and handwoven resin wicker, with hidden hardware and stainless fasteners to improve durability and deter copying. They discuss sizing options, custom projects (including hotels and international work), rope vs chain (using synthetic polypropylene Manila rope), quick-dry Dry Fast foam with Sunbrella fabrics, replacement parts, installation guidance and safety, popular models like the Conroy and Emerson, new products like the backless Chloe, and expanding into matching sofas and lounge chairs.

Discover more and connect with us:

https://www.southernkomfortbedswings.com/

https://www.farleypooldesigns.com/
https://www.youtube.com/@MikeFarleyDesigns
https://www.instagram.com/farleydesigns/
https://www.instagram.com/luxuryoutdoorlivingpodcast/

00:00 Podcast Welcome 01:17 Meet The Guest 01:41 How It All Started 03:23 From Basement To Showroom 05:59 Beating The Copycats 08:29 Why Bed Swings 12:38 Sizing And Space Planning 14:39 Rope Versus Chain 16:54 Outdoor Cushions That Dry 19:58 Custom Fabrics And Layouts 21:55 Repairs And Replacements 25:24 Custom Builds And Safety 29:54 Why People Love Swings 32:17 COVID Photo Challenges 33:22 Renderings Over Photos 33:43 Comfort Creates Memories 34:33 Quality Materials Choices 36:26 Designing For Wellness 40:33 Models And Best Sellers 41:24 Emerson Storm Ready Design 43:15 Handwoven Craft Process 45:03 Knockoffs And Safety Risks 47:55 Installation And Hardware Tips 50:44 New Designs And Furniture Line 54:26 Trade Program Workflow 56:22 Rapid Fire Favorites 01:00:17 Inspiration Travel Ideas 01:01:49 Closing And Contact Info 01:02:24 Show Mission Wrap Up

In this episode Luxury Outdoor Living Podcast Mike and Trey Farley welcome guests Feras Irikat (VP of Brand and Design) and David Futula (Director of Technical Services) from Island Stone, discussing how tile choices shape outdoor living spaces and how to specify products for pools. David explains his role co-authoring the TCNA P602 pool tile installation standard and outlines key performance factors for submerged/exterior use such as freeze/thaw, thermal shock, breaking strength, chemical resistance, and stone-specific issues like rust. Firas describes Island Stone’s origin in Bali creating mesh-mounted pebble sheets, ongoing innovation in dimensional/fractal patterns, and environmentally conscious pebble sourcing. They cover how homeowners should balance emotional goals with functional requirements, the importance of mockups and grout/sealer choices, details on Sukabumi stone behavior and sealing, mesh-backed glass manufacturing differences, V-cap trims, and saltwater pool compatibility.

Discover more and connect:

https://islandstone.com/

https://www.farleypooldesigns.com/
https://www.youtube.com/@MikeFarleyDesigns
https://www.instagram.com/farleydesigns/
https://www.instagram.com/luxuryoutdoorlivingpodcast/

00:00 Podcast Welcome 01:12 Meet Island Stone Experts 02:36 Pool Tile Standards 04:47 Firas Tile Journey 06:27 Dave Trade Background 08:38 Indoor Outdoor Design Shift 10:35 Biophilic Home Healing 12:32 Island Stone Origin Story 20:28 Ethical Pebble Sourcing 22:45 Designing for Feeling 25:37 Choosing Tile Basics 30:25 Pool Suitability Testing 36:33 Sukabumi Stone Deep Dive 43:10 Natural Stone Variation 44:05 Patina and Biophilic Color 46:34 Slip Resistance and Formats 49:04 Sealants Grout and Mockups 51:12 Fractal Design Philosophy 55:10 Water Walls and Spec Limits 59:47 Mesh Backed Glass Explained 01:04:14 V Cap Trim and Salt Systems 01:07:58 Ceramic Kits and Coverings 01:11:54 Designing for Client Feelings 01:14:07 Wrap Up and Contact Info 01:16:47 Favorites Travel and Closing

Mike and Trey Farley host Luxury Outdoor Living Podcast and interview Robert, owner of The Pool Enclosure Guys, who has 24 years specializing in designing and building luxury aluminum and stainless-steel pool screen enclosures across 9–10 states. Robert explains what pool enclosures are, how they extend outdoor living while keeping out leaves, mosquitoes, snakes, and other animals, and why his engineered, higher-vaulted designs feel open and clear rather than claustrophobic. They discuss retrofit vs. new construction, permitting, setbacks, footings, drainage considerations, maintenance recommendations (Dawn and water; avoid harsh chemicals and high PSI), screen types, lifespan expectations, storm performance (noting Hurricane Ida), lighting options, HOA approval challenges, and how enclosures can replace fences for safety codes. Robert also shares unusual use cases (birds, koi ponds, butterflies) and advises homeowners to research contractors, reviews, and long-term referrals.

Discover more:

https://thepoolenclosureguys.com/

https://www.farleypooldesigns.com/
https://www.youtube.com/@MikeFarleyDesigns
https://www.instagram.com/farleydesigns/
https://www.instagram.com/luxuryoutdoorlivingpodcast/

00:00 Podcast Welcome 01:17 Meet The Guest 02:05 What Is A Pool Enclosure 04:05 Why Enclosures Matter 05:15 How He Got Started 08:36 Design And Engineering 12:17 Year Round Enclosures 15:20 Screen Types And UV 19:07 Wildlife And Pest Stories 23:49 Attaching To The House 25:54 Colors And Powder Coat 29:04 Permits Setbacks Footings 33:03 Cleaning And Maintenance 34:56 Retrofits Drainage Access 37:07 Weather Durability Lifespan 44:14 Lighting And Climate Control 47:08 More Problems Enclosures Solve 48:36 Safety Codes And Fencing 49:17 Why Enclosures Exist 50:39 Self Closing Doors 52:05 Storm Proof Strength 55:47 Costly Weather Risks 56:23 Maintenance Mistakes 58:08 Choosing The Right Builder 01:02:11 Where They Build 01:03:25 Custom Glass And Tint 01:04:15 Resale Value Reality 01:06:26 Biggest Builds And Design 01:08:05 HOA Approval Battles 01:09:25 Plants And Contractor Issues 01:12:24 Dream Projects And Privacy 01:13:59 Keeping Pets And Wildlife Out 01:18:18 Personal Favorites And Wrap Up

In this episode Mike and Trey Farley of Farley Pool Designs interview Bill Phillips, owner of Clark Synthesis in Colorado, a major manufacturer of underwater swimming pool speakers. Bill shares his path from Kentucky to high-end audio and eventually buying Clark Synthesis, and explains how their underwater speakers work by radiating sound more like a cello, producing full-frequency audio with strong bass rather than the tinny sound typical underwater. They discuss design help (plan markup in about 24 hours), installation in standard light niches, custom powder-coated finishes, and considerations like waterfalls, swim jets, and volume safety. Bill describes broader uses of their vibration/transducer technology in massage tables, drummers’ hearing protection, decks as subwoofers via bone conduction, resorts and yachts, float tanks, therapy applications, and VR/theme parks, plus key tips: mix audio to mono, use proper amplifiers, and test speakers in water.

Discover more:

https://clarksynthesis.com/

https://www.farleypooldesigns.com/
https://www.youtube.com/@MikeFarleyDesigns
https://www.instagram.com/farleydesigns/
https://www.instagram.com/luxuryoutdoorlivingpodcast/

00:00 Welcome to the Podcast 01:17 Meet the Guest Bill Phillips 02:04 Bill’s Audio Journey 03:04 HGTV Lazy River Story 04:52 How Underwater Sound Works 07:05 Full Frequency Bass Explained 08:04 Underwater Movie Nights 09:06 Speaker Placement and Install 10:19 Design and Color Customization 11:23 Feeling Music Underwater 12:31 Beyond Pools Massage Tech 15:00 Where to Try Them Out 16:00 Marine and Portable Options 17:28 Float Tanks and Wellness 19:14 Wildest Backyard Use Case 20:17 Planning for Water Noise 22:05 Volume Safety and Control 23:02 Deck Transducers for Bass 24:18 Decks as Speakers 24:48 Why Wood Resonates 25:09 Bone Conduction Explained 25:58 Car Gravel Road Demo 27:50 Barefoot vs Shoes 29:32 Marriage Saved by Sound 31:13 Company Evolution Story 33:22 Ordering and Dealer Support 35:17 Therapy and Deaf Dance Floors 36:42 Biggest Unexpected Use Cases 38:26 VR and Future Healthcare 40:04 Setup Mistakes to Avoid 41:32 Hearing Safety Questions 42:46 Contact and Rapid Fire Qs 44:32 Papua New Guinea Memories 46:16 Wrap Up and Show Mission

Mike and Trey Farley host the Luxury Outdoor Living Podcast and interview Mikel Tupe from Belgium, who handcrafts luxury wooden diving boards he calls “functional art.” Tupe explains he began after building a board for his own pool, then left a banking/insurance career as international demand grew, especially in the U.S. He describes two construction types—floating boards (more flexible, cheaper, require storing in winter and checking screws) and tension boards (more solid, less bounce, adjustable tension bars). He discusses materials (ipe and a shift toward afrormosia), oiling to prevent graying and cracking, optional UV-protective covers, anti-slip features, and U.S.-based safety standards, bracket heights, and stainless-steel bases. He highlights the Ocean One as the most popular model, notes 5–7 week high-season lead times, typical longevity and weight guidance, unusual installations, and emphasizes customer communication and trust.

Discover more:

https://woodendivingboards.com/

https://www.farleypooldesigns.com/
https://www.youtube.com/@MikeFarleyDesigns
https://www.instagram.com/farleydesigns/
https://www.instagram.com/luxuryoutdoorlivingpodcast/

00:00 Podcast Welcome 01:12 Meet the Guest 02:01 Wooden Boards Origin 04:24 Choosing the Right Wood 06:00 Handcrafted Production 07:30 Floating vs Tension 11:04 Oiling and Winter Care 15:27 Covers and UV Protection 18:38 Splinters and Grip 22:05 Safety Rules and Brackets 27:30 Bracket Designs and Ocean One 28:48 Ocean One Bestseller 29:06 Board Sizes And Profiles 30:09 Why Wood Boards 31:09 Wild Install Locations 32:46 Maintenance And Hardware 35:41 Ordering And Shipping 37:55 Longevity And Weight Limits 41:37 Wood Vs Fiberglass Bounce 47:10 Design Inspiration And Safety 50:31 Trust Customer Care Wrap 52:37 Rapid Fire Favorites 55:02 Final Thanks And Contact

Mike and Trey Farley interview Kurt Kraisinger, landscape architect, owner of Lorax Design Group in Overland Park, Kansas, and co-founder of Tributary Revelation. Kurt recounts his path from aspiring architect to landscape architecture at Kansas State University, building his practice across 25 states, and explains his client-first design philosophy focused on context, lifestyle, and architectural fit rather than a single signature style. He describes how clients often fixate on Pinterest features, why trust is built by showing what clients ask for alongside better alternatives, and why circulation plus grading/drainage are foundational, especially in Kansas City’s freeze-thaw and rainfall conditions. Kurt outlines his “prescribed process” from concept to master plan, early contractor estimates to prevent budget surprises, phasing strategies, and stepwise 3D visualization. He explains the Lorax name origin, Tributary’s tours-based networking model, discusses trendy pool features and value engineering, and shares influences (Simon Sinek, Blue Ocean Strategy), plus personal favorites and travel inspiration.

Discover more:

https://loraxdesigngroup.com/

https://www.farleypooldesigns.com/
https://www.youtube.com/@MikeFarleyDesigns
https://www.instagram.com/farleydesigns/
https://www.instagram.com/luxuryoutdoorlivingpodcast/

00:00 Podcast Welcome 01:23 Meet Kurt Kraisinger 02:54 Path to Landscape Architecture 04:39 K State Training and Early Work 07:51 Design Philosophy and Style Range 11:01 Guiding Clients Past Pinterest 15:48 Why Lorax Design Group 19:55 Outdoor Living After COVID 21:44 Site Walkthrough and Flow Basics 25:43 Master Plans and Phasing 27:24 Budget Reality and Cost Process 31:57 Luxury Features and Tradeoffs 35:21 Learning Negative Edge Details 37:51 How Tributary Started 39:48 Building Tributary Tours 42:17 Vendors Behind Scenes 43:47 Membership Rules Evolve 44:59 Midwest Build Challenges 49:56 When to Hire Designers 52:51 Hand Drawing Value 56:04 3D Workflow Funnel 01:01:22 Timeless Pool Design 01:05:36 Saying No to Clients 01:11:26 Books Food Movies 01:17:41 Wrap Up Contact Info 01:18:22 Show Mission Closing