Episode #143 The Backbone of the Hot Tub Industry: Understanding IHTA’s Mission
In this episode of The SpaRetailer Podcast, Host Megan Kendrick welcomes Amanda Annis (Ohio Hot Tub and Sauna, IHTA chairman) and Seth Ewing (director of member programs and services at the Pool & Hot Tub Alliance) to discuss how IHTA, under the PHTA umbrella, has evolved and now more strongly serves portable hot tub retailers. They highlight core work protecting the industry through standards, safety, and advocacy on issues like energy regulations, fencing laws, bonding/electrical, water regulations, tariffs, and unsafe noncompliant products sold online, plus relationship-building with government and “Day on the Hill” lobbying. They cover expanded member benefits including a dedicated IHTA retailer membership ($1,000 company fee), a job board (Work in Aquatics), brand-agnostic Certified Hot Tub Technician training, webinars, quarterly and monthly market intelligence reports, and the new Center of Excellence online learning system with 160+ courses and multiple tracks.
Episode #143 The Backbone of the Hot Tub Industry: Understanding IHTA’s Mission – SpaRetailer
Show Notes with Timestamps:
00:00 Podcast Welcome
01:36 Amanda Joins IHTA
03:01 Association Evolution
04:39 New Member Benefits
07:01 Research And Trends
09:54 Workforce Job Board
11:25 Why Advocacy Matters
15:07 Safety And Compliance
16:06 Retailer Membership Perks
20:04 Amanda Member Results
23:40 Behind The Scenes Advocacy
26:06 Day On The Hill
27:30 Sponsor Message
28:07 Crisis Support Updates
32:58 Center Of Excellence
38:30 Final Thoughts
