This past July, 30 pond professionals from across the United States and Canada gathered for something more than just a break from work. They came together to recharge, reconnect and reignite the passion for the pond industry. The Pond Professional Alliance (PPA) Summer Retreat was held at the serene and scenic Stillwater Reserve in western Michigan. It offered the perfect backdrop for three days of sunshine, learning, storytelling and meaningful connection.
A Space for Real Connection
What started as a simple idea — to create an opportunity for pond builders to get away and learn from each other in a relaxed setting — blossomed into something truly special. The Summer Retreat became a catalyst for collaboration, personal growth and lasting friendships. Over the course of one long weekend, attendees traded ideas, shared struggles, celebrated wins and soaked in the collective wisdom of some of the most passionate and experienced individuals in the business.
Unlike a busy trade show or the high-pressure networking of industry conventions, the PPA Summer Retreat offered a slower pace. Here, there were no booths to manage or sales pitches to deliver. Instead, there were shared meals, lakeside chats and bonfire conversations that created space for deeper, more meaningful relationships to form.
The retreat kicked off Thursday evening with a special Dress for Success dinner. Attendees dressed up for the occasion and enjoyed a steak dinner surrounded by peers, who quickly began to feel more like family. It was the perfect icebreaker for a weekend centered on authenticity and mutual respect.
That spirit of camaraderie carried throughout the entire weekend. Attendees felt safe sharing both their triumphs and their trials. The conversations were honest, vulnerable and filled with insight — from how to structure pricing and handle tricky clients to balancing work demands with family life. Regardless of experience level or business size, everyone had something valuable to contribute and something meaningful to learn.
Behind the Scenes with EasyPro
Friday brought one of the most anticipated experiences of the weekend: a private tour of the EasyPro manufacturing facility. The tour began with an in-depth look at their process for formulating high-potency water treatments and building remarkably quiet and efficient aeration systems. The tour ended at Stoney Creek Fish Farm, where EasyPro grows fish for ponds throughout the state of Michigan.
Attendees were able to see firsthand how EasyPro’s product innovation is grounded in real-world problem-solving. But it wasn’t just the products that left a lasting impression — it was the people. EasyPro is an employee-owned company, and their pride of ownership shined through. President and CEO Paul Cole, along with sales specialists Matt Meachum and Jake Bradley, were on hand to guide the tour and connect with attendees on a personal level. Their genuine hospitality and willingness to answer questions with honesty, humor and insight set the tone for what would become one of the most talked-about parts of the retreat.
“The event was fantastic. I loved seeing this community come together in friendship to support one another and learn from the guest speakers. These events are investments in our industry’s future,” Cole said.
The team at EasyPro demonstrated that when innovation is paired with integrity, it strengthens not just individual businesses but the entire industry.
Education Meets Inspiration
The learning didn’t stop at the tour. Friday afternoon featured a leadership session led by Tim Cutroni of The Contractor Fight. He encouraged attendees to challenge their mindsets and adopt a more empowered approach to their businesses.
Next up was Clayton Graba of Kaeru CX, who discussed the importance of using systems to scale effectively. He walked attendees through the Kaeru CX platform, showing how it can streamline day-to-day operations and reduce the chaos that often comes with growth.
Work Hard, Play Hard
Of course, it wasn’t all classroom time. One of the most cherished aspects of the retreat was the balance of professional development with play and personal bonding. Friday evening brought outdoor adventures such as ATV rides, skeet shooting, golf simulators and boat rides. These activities weren’t just for fun — they gave attendees the chance to loosen up, laugh and bond with their peers in unforgettable ways.
Saturday morning featured the Contractor Fight-style Truth Hike, where participants walked the trails of Stillwater Reserve while sharing honest, personal stories about their journeys in the pond world and beyond. The hike offered a beautiful and reflective backdrop for deep conversations, vulnerability and encouragement. For many, it was one of the most moving parts of the weekend.
That afternoon brought more sessions with Cutroni and Graba, offering even more practical strategies for leadership and business success. As evening rolled in, attendees gathered for one final night of connection. Around the campfire and inside the lodge, conversations flowed late into the night. People talked about life, business, family and dreams for the future.
“This was one of the best professional development events I have been to in years. The PPA thoughtfully curated an experience that sparked real connection, fresh insight and genuine renewal,” said Melissa Johanson, owner of Focal Point Features.
Community Makes Us Stronger
If one theme resonated most throughout the retreat, it was this: We are better together.
The pond industry can be a lonely place. Many professionals work in isolation, facing challenges they think no one else understands.
But this retreat was proof that when pond builders come together with open minds and open hearts, the impact is profound.
Platforms such as the Pond Professional Alliance are built on trust, generosity and the belief that a rising tide lifts all boats.
The stronger our relationships, the stronger our businesses — and the more respected and successful the industry becomes as a whole.
Looking Ahead
The PPA Summer Retreat was more than an event — it was a movement. A movement toward deeper connection, higher standards and shared success. And it’s only the beginning.
To everyone who joined us: Thank you. You brought your wisdom, your laughter, your vulnerability and your spirit. You reminded us what makes this industry not just worth working in, but worth investing in. To EasyPro: None of this would have been possible without your support. We appreciate you and your dedication to strengthening the industry.
And to those who couldn’t make it: Stay tuned. We’ll be back — and next time, we hope to see you there.
About the Author:
Ana York Arnston is co-founder of the Pond Professionals Alliance.
