Luxury Outdoor Living Podcast

Ep 115 The Outdoor Living Design Process and Features.

This episode is a 2025 recap of the Luxury Outdoor Living Podcast with Mike and Trey Farley of Farley Pool Designs. Over 40 years of expertise is distilled into key episodes covering design trends, insider tips, and transformational outdoor projects. They discuss major episodes from the year, such as design processes, wellness in outdoor spaces, construction insights, and interviews with leading designers and product experts. Topics include wellness features like saunas, site analysis for new projects, handling trees in designs, and the latest in lighting, pool finishes, and unique outdoor products. Listeners are encouraged to share ideas and ask questions, with an emphasis on creating joy, relaxation, and memorable retreats in outdoor living spaces. The episode ends with a holiday greeting and a teaser for new trends in 2026.
 
https://www.farleypooldesigns.com/https://www.instagram.com/farleydesigns/https://www.instagram.com/luxuryoutdoorlivingpodcast/https://www.instagram.com/poolzila/
 
00:00 Introduction to Luxury Outdoor Living Podcast
01:30 Overview of the Five-Step Process
02:14 Step 1: Defining Your Dream Backyard
04:03 Step 2: Conducting a Site Analysis
06:48 Step 3: Creating Outdoor Living Spaces
09:10 Step 4: Enhancing Aesthetics and Functionality
12:33 Step 5: Designing the Perfect Pool
14:11 Specialized Products and Expert Insights
29:07 Discovering Swimmable Ponds
30:01 Vista Folia: Bringing the Outdoors Inside
31:35 Innovations in Pool Technology with Jandy Flora
33:05 Transforming Backyards with Sports Courts
34:16 Adjustable Patio Covers with George
34:46 Exploring Pebble Tech Pool Finishes
36:00 Trends and Design Challenges in 2025
36:38 Luxury Outdoor Living: Expanding the Podcast's Focus
37:28 Designing for Small Spaces
38:30 The Evolution of the Backyard with Eric Herman
39:52 Seamless Indoor-Outdoor Transitions with Susan Ziman
40:59 Creating Outdoor Bathrooms and Showers
41:48 Integrating Pools with Existing Trees
43:30 Designing for Grandparents and Multi-Generational Spaces
44:37 Fences, Walls, and Screens: Defining Your Space
45:00 Outdoor Living Starter Pack for First-Time Homeowners
46:10 Fun Features for the Backyard
47:01 Backyard Transformations: From Start to Finish
48:40 Wellness in the Backyard: Insights from Experts
53:44 Understanding Concrete Cancer and Construction Challenges
57:04 Regional Design Perspectives: Insights from Across the Country
01:05:19 Looking Ahead: Trends and Inspirations for 2026
 

Ep 114 Your First Komodo Grill: Big Green Egg, Primo and Komodo Joe Explained

In this episode of the Luxury Outdoor Living Podcast, hosts Mike and Trey Farley of Farley Pool Designs discuss ceramic grills with a focus on the Big Green Egg, Primo, and Kamado Joe. They dive into the history, unique features, and cooking techniques for each grill type, sharing insights on selecting the right grill, managing temperatures, and favorite recipes. With over 40 years of experience in outdoor living design, Mike and Trey aim to help listeners create their perfect backyard retreat while offering tips to enhance their grilling expertise. Listeners are encouraged to engage by sharing questions and comments.
 
Discover more:
https://www.farleypooldesigns.com/
https://www.instagram.com/farleydesigns/
https://www.instagram.com/luxuryoutdoorlivingpodcast/
https://www.instagram.com/poolzila/
 
00:00 Welcome to Luxury Outdoor Living
01:24 Introduction to Ceramic Grills
03:19 The Big Green Egg: A Pioneer in Ceramic Grills
05:21 Primo Grills: Versatility and American Made
09:11 Kamado Joe: Innovation in Ceramic Grilling
13:16 Cooking Techniques and Tips
23:16 Efficient Charcoal Management
23:38 Lighting Techniques: Loof Lighter and Alternatives
26:03 Cooking Brisket: Megan's Method
27:20 Exploring New Recipes: Salmon and Vegetables
31:22 Perfecting the Steak and Pork Chops
37:10 Maintaining Consistent Temperatures
40:42 Choosing the Right Charcoal
42:03 The Rise of Outdoor Cooking
43:47 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
 

Ep 113 Pool Finish Options with Pebbletec

Have you ever wondered how to turn your backyard into a luxury retreat? This episode of the Luxury Outdoor Living Podcast, hosted by Mike and Trey Farley of Farley Pool Designs, features a special guest, Matt Sharp from Pebble Tech. They discuss various pool finishing options, including Pebble Tech, Pebble Sheen, Pebble Breeze, and more, diving into the pros and cons of each. Learn about the history, manufacturing standards, and unique qualities of these finishes, along with practical insights on remodeling techniques, water chemistry maintenance, and additional outdoor features like fire bowls and water scuppers. Whether you're a homeowner looking to elevate your outdoor space or simply fascinated by the intricacies of custom pool design, this episode offers valuable knowledge and tips straight from industry experts.
 
https://pebbletec.com/
https://www.farleypooldesigns.com/https://www.instagram.com/farleydesigns/https://www.instagram.com/luxuryoutdoorlivingpodcast/https://www.instagram.com/poolzila/
 
00:00 Introduction to Luxury Outdoor Living Podcast
01:36 Meet Our Guest: Matt from Pebble Tech
01:42 Matt's Journey in the Pool Industry
03:39 The Evolution of Pool Finishes
04:46 Challenges with White Plaster
07:01 Understanding Pool Finish Modeling
12:44 Introduction to Pebble Tech
13:16 The History and Impact of Pebble Tech
26:58 Pebble Tech's Quality Assurance and Training
39:28 Cool Names of Pebble Tech
39:54 Sourcing and Pricing of Aggregates
41:54 Quality Assurance and Consistency
45:09 Life Expectancy and Maintenance
49:05 Understanding Pool Colors
58:24 Pebble Sheen and Other Finishes
01:13:07 Exposure Method and Temperature Challenges
01:15:49 Brilliance vs. Essence: A Detailed Comparison
01:20:16 Quartz Finish: Features and Benefits
01:23:03 Remodeling Techniques: Bond Coat vs. Chip Out
01:26:06 Beyond Pool Finishes: LightStream Tile and Grand Effects
01:37:40 Personal Insights and Closing Remarks
 

Ep 112 The Before and After Backyard Transformation

Luxury Outdoor Living Podcast hosts Mike and Trey Farley of Farley Pool Designs discuss redefining backyard spaces through complete transformations, including demolishing old pools and redesigning them into modern personal retreats. They emphasize the importance of planning, design, and working with professionals to achieve a customized, aesthetically cohesive environment. Highlights include insights into why pools are demolished, the entire design process, and practical tips for homeowners considering such projects. The episode also addresses public questions, permitting issues, and the value of master planning.
 
Discover more:
https://www.farleypooldesigns.com/https://www.instagram.com/farleydesigns/https://www.instagram.com/luxuryoutdoorlivingpodcast/https://www.instagram.com/poolzila/
 
00:00 Introduction to Luxury Outdoor Living
01:17 Meet the Hosts: Mike and Trey Farley
01:28 Understanding Pool Transformations
02:19 Reasons for Pool Transformations
03:57 Design Trends and Features
06:12 Structural and Safety Considerations
11:36 Planning and Execution of Pool Projects
24:02 Exploring Old Pool Equipment
24:27 Dealing with Old Pool Shells
25:35 Unexpected Discoveries During Pool Removal
27:11 Challenges in Pool Demolition
30:34 Hiring Professionals for Pool Demolition
37:40 Benefits of Starting Fresh with a New Pool
43:56 Farley Pool Designs Services
45:04 Conclusion and Viewer Engagement
 

Ep 111 Healing and Water with Dr Denise Canchola

Join Mike and Trey Farley of Farley Pool Designs as they welcome Denise from River Flow to explore the significant role of water in mental health and wellness. With a background in marine biology and psychiatry, Denise shares her journey and expertise on how water and immersion therapy can aid in addiction treatment, anxiety, and overall mental health. The episode delves into personal stories, including Denise's use of River Flow Pumps in her own pool for therapy and recovery. They discuss the benefits of current in pools, optimal pool design for mental wellness, and future trends in water therapy. The conversation highlights the multifaceted uses of pools for exercise, relaxation, and mental rejuvenation, aiming to inspire listeners to harness the therapeutic properties of water in their own backyards.
 
Discover more:
https://theorg.com/org/televero-health/org-chart/dr-denise-canchola
https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-denise-canchola-a5539724a/
https://www.farleypooldesigns.com/https://www.instagram.com/farleydesigns/https://www.instagram.com/luxuryoutdoorlivingpodcast/https://www.instagram.com/poolzila/
 
00:00 Introduction to Luxury Outdoor Living Podcast
01:17 Meet Our Guest: Denise's Journey and Expertise
04:02 The Healing Power of Water
10:12 Addressing Mental Health with Water Therapy
16:25 River Flow: A Game Changer in Water Therapy
21:09 Personal Stories and Benefits of Water Therapy
28:36 Innovative Uses of Water in Therapy and Rehabilitation
31:18 The Power of Water in Addiction Recovery
31:41 Therapeutic Properties of Water
32:14 Breaking the Cycle of Addiction
32:37 The Role of Water in Mindfulness and Centering
35:45 Telehealth and Water Therapy
38:21 Designing Wellness-Friendly Pools
45:56 Emerging Therapies and Mental Health
50:14 Creating Optimal Pool Environments
52:35 The Joy and Benefits of Water
56:17 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
 

Ep 110 Fun In the Outdoor Oasis

Join Mike and Trey Farley of Farley Pool Designs on the Luxury Outdoor Living Podcast as they share their expertise gathered over 40 years in turning backyards into havens of relaxation and fun. Explore a range of outdoor living trends, including multifunctional outdoor spaces, custom pools, innovative features like splash pads and lazy rivers, the rise of health-focused amenities like saunas and cold plunges, and the modern importance of outdoor structures and low-maintenance options. Learn how to bring both simple and extravagant elements to your backyard to create unforgettable memories for multiple generations. Whether you're planning a small upgrade or an extensive transformation, Mike and Trey provide valuable insights to guide you through the process with confidence.
 
Discover more:
https://www.farleypooldesigns.com/https://www.instagram.com/farleydesigns/https://www.instagram.com/luxuryoutdoorlivingpodcast/https://www.instagram.com/poolzila/
 
00:00 Welcome to Luxury Outdoor Living
01:12 Creating Fun Outdoor Memories
04:03 The Evolution of Outdoor Living Spaces
07:32 The Rise of Sports Courts
15:00 Innovative Pool Features
23:22 Multi-Functional Outdoor Spaces
25:09 The Ultimate Backyard Experience
26:43 Building a Lazy River and Surfing Simulator
27:24 The Rise of Pool Slides
29:01 Artistic and Custom Slides
30:47 Low Maintenance Outdoor Solutions
34:41 Health and Wellness in Outdoor Spaces
36:51 Outdoor Showers and Bathrooms
40:03 Creating Sheltered Outdoor Spaces
41:24 Sunken Fire Pits and Kitchens
47:24 Fun Features: Swings and Outdoor Theaters
49:56 Conclusion and Resources
 

Ep 109 Soil Injection for Luxury Outdoor Living

In this episode of the Luxury Outdoor Living Podcast, hosts Mike and Trey Farley of Farley Pool Designs sit down with Tim Taborsky of Swim Soil to discuss the intricacies of soil injections for pool building. Tim outlines his career journey from banking to soil stabilization, emphasizing how crucial soil injections are for pool construction in areas with expansive clay soils. The conversation covers the science behind soil injections, their benefits compared to traditional methods like void boxes and piers, and real-life examples of soil challenges faced during pool construction. Listeners gain valuable insights into the importance of geotechnical reports, effective soil treatment methods, and the long-term benefits of soil stabilization. The episode also features practical advice for homeowners and pool builders alike, emphasizing the cost-effectiveness of preventative measures over repairs.
 
Discover more:
https://www.swimsoil.com/
https://www.farleypooldesigns.com/https://www.instagram.com/farleydesigns/https://www.instagram.com/luxuryoutdoorlivingpodcast/https://www.instagram.com/poolzila/
 
00:00 Introduction to Luxury Outdoor Living Podcast
01:30 Meet Tim Tabors: From Banking to Soil Stabilization
02:31 The Evolution of Soil Injection Techniques
05:07 Understanding Soil Reports and Their Importance
07:24 Challenges and Misconceptions in Soil Injection
11:19 Practical Applications and Case Studies
17:24 The Role of Drainage in Soil Stabilization
29:31 Misconceptions and Safety of Soil Injections
31:33 Handling Chemical Dilution and Safety
32:37 Soil Hydration and Chemical Injection Process
35:05 Gravel and Steel in Pool Construction
37:37 Void Boxes vs. Soil Injections
40:07 Challenges with Soil Injections
47:08 Geotechnical Reports and Soil Types
50:14 True Crime: Choosing the Right Builder
52:09 Final Thoughts and Recommendations
 

Ep 108 STEP 5 The Pool and Pool Features

Explore the art of transforming your backyard into a personal paradise with Mike and Trey Farley on the Luxury Outdoor Living Podcast. Learn about vinyl, fiberglass, and concrete pools, and understand the importance of pool depth, safety envelopes, and recreational functionality. Discover key insights on ledges, diving boards, hydraulics, and more, ensuring your pool is both beautiful and functional. Enhance your outdoor space and create lasting memories with expert advice on pool planning and design.
 
Discover more:
https://www.farleypooldesigns.com/https://www.instagram.com/farleydesigns/https://www.instagram.com/luxuryoutdoorlivingpodcast/https://www.instagram.com/poolzila/
 
00:00 Introduction to Luxury Outdoor Living
01:44 Types of Pools: Vinyl, Fiberglass, and Concrete
03:22 Pool Depth and Functionality
05:30 Diving Pools vs. Recreational Pools
14:58 Popular Pool Features: Tanning Ledges and Beach Entries
19:52 Special Pool Designs for Health and Accessibility
21:22 BBQ Bits: Grill Cleaning Tips
22:52 Umbrellas and Pool Activities
24:10 Minimizing Hard Edges in Pool Design
24:37 Balancing Activity and Relaxation Areas
26:46 Diving Boards vs. Diving Rocks: Safety Considerations
29:02 Calculating Pool Size and Volume
36:54 Hydraulics and Pool Equipment Placement
40:17 Filling Your Pool: Manual vs. Autofill Systems
43:19 City Regulations and Pool Features
46:30 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
 

Ep 107 The Outdoor Living Starter Pack

Welcome to the Luxury Outdoor Living Podcast hosted by Mike and Trey Farley of Farley Pool Designs. The Farleys share their insights on essential outdoor living features. The episode breaks down key elements like quality grass, shade solutions, water features, gardening tips, outdoor furniture, kitchen equipment, wellness setups, lighting, fire pits, and storage. By focusing on these essentials, they provide a roadmap for creating a welcoming and enjoyable outdoor space. Additionally, they discuss the financial and aesthetic benefits of these features, making it easier for homeowners to plan and execute their dream backyards.
 
Discover more:
https://www.farleypooldesigns.com/https://www.instagram.com/farleydesigns/https://www.instagram.com/luxuryoutdoorlivingpodcast/https://www.instagram.com/poolzila/
 
00:00 Welcome to Luxury Outdoor Living
02:26 Travel Plans and Upcoming Events
03:12 Outdoor Living Starter Pack
06:39 Creating a Comfortable Backyard
11:44 Incorporating Water Features
17:16 Gardening and Landscaping Tips
20:57 Essential Outdoor Furniture
22:19 Barbecue Bits: Outdoor Fire Media Essentials
25:25 Advancements in Fire Pit Technology
26:21 Choosing Weather-Resistant Furniture
27:11 Creating a Cozy Outdoor Space
28:07 The Importance of Outdoor Kitchens
33:33 Wellness Starter Pack for Your Backyard
35:34 Enhancing Your Backyard with Lighting
37:51 Incorporating Fire Elements
39:32 The Need for Outdoor Storage
42:36 Fencing and Privacy Solutions
44:44 Maximizing Property Value with Outdoor Living
49:24 Fun and Games for Your Backyard
51:14 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
 

Ep 106 Step 4-Look Nice in Your Outdoor Living Space

Welcome to the Luxury Outdoor Living Podcast with Mike and Trey Farley of Farley Pool Designs. With over 40 years of experience, the Farley team shares insights on transforming backyards into serene retreats. In this episode, step four of the design process is explored, covering the importance of creating visually appealing spaces. Topics include 3D modeling, sightlines, and prioritizing features such as fire elements, water features, and innovative lighting. The episode delves into practical tips for ensuring accurate models, discussions on how to manage sound and visual aesthetics with various water features, and ways to utilize lighting effectively to enhance outdoor spaces. Special guests contribute to the conversation, discussing advancements in materials and artistic elements to achieve an inviting backyard atmosphere. This comprehensive guide is perfect for those looking to turn their backyard visions into a reality.
Discover more:
https://www.farleypooldesigns.com/https://www.instagram.com/farleydesigns/https://www.instagram.com/luxuryoutdoorlivingpodcast/https://www.instagram.com/poolzila/
 
00:00 Welcome to Luxury Outdoor Living
01:12 Introduction to the Design Process
02:03 Priorities in Outdoor Living Spaces
03:12 The Importance of 3D Modeling
11:44 Fire Features: Gathering and Aesthetics
30:41 Water Features: Sound and Visual Effects
38:13 Sound Considerations in Backyard Design
39:02 Water Features: Mistakes and Lessons
40:20 Modern Water Feature Trends
43:16 The Art of Boulder Waterfalls
50:10 Artificial Boulders and Their Applications
53:07 The Importance of Lighting in Outdoor Spaces
01:07:36 Incorporating Art and Sculptures
01:11:10 Choosing the Right Materials
01:16:54 Conclusion and Final Thoughts