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. https://sparetailer.com/feed/podcast/ Show Notes with Timestamps: 00:00 Podcast Welcome01:36 Amanda Joins IHTA03:01 Association Evolution04:39 New Member Benefits07:01 Research And Trends09:54 Workforce Job Board11:25 Why Advocacy Matters15:07 Safety And Compliance16:06 Retailer Membership Perks20:04 Amanda Member Results23:40 Behind The Scenes Advocacy26:06 Day On The Hill27:30 Sponsor Message28:07 Crisis Support Updates32:58 Center Of Excellence38:30 Final Thoughts