Ep 40 - Managing Megascale: The Logistics of Multimillion-Gallon Systems

Ep 46 - A Career Built Around Water: Dane Tullock on Aquariums, Aquaculture, and Life Support Systems

What does it take to build a career that spans aquaculture, exhibit construction, life support systems, and executive leadership? In this episode of INFLOW, hosts Joe and Dr. Jeff sit down with Dane Tullock to explore a career shaped by curiosity, collaboration, and a passion for advancing the aquarium industry. Dane shares how his journey from aquarist to aquarium executive gave him a unique perspective on life support systems (LSS), facility design, and the critical role aquarists play in successful projects. The conversation explores why owner involvement is essential during aquarium planning and construction, how husbandry and engineering teams can work together more effectively, and the lessons learned from decades of designing, building, and operating aquatic facilities. Whether you're an aquarist, LSS operator, engineer, designer, or aquarium leader, this episode offers valuable insights into career development, interdisciplinary collaboration, and the future of public aquarium operations. In this episode: * Dane Tullock's career path from aquarist to executive leadership * Why aquarists should have a seat at the design table * Best practices for aquarium and life support system (LSS) design * Bridging the gap between husbandry, engineering, and operations * Lessons from aquaculture, exhibit construction, and public aquariums * Advice for the next generation of aquarium professionals (2:58) - Meet Dane (10:33) - Grad School and Aquaculture (13:14) - Virginia Aquarium Expansion (17:41) - Ripley's Myrtle Beach Build (27:03) - Sixth Sense and System Balance (30:43) - Next Stop Gatlinburg (35:34) - Leaving Ripley's Path (38:48) - Burnout and REI Shift (41:12) - Back to Ripley's Toronto (44:14) - Transfer and Florida Return (50:19) - Planning and Overtime Lessons (55:01) - Renovations and Conservation Focus (58:42) - Career Advice and Wrap-Up INFLOW is the podcast for professionals working in aquarium life support systems, water quality, aquatic engineering, and public aquarium operations. Subscribe on Apple Podcasts and Spotify for conversations with the industry's leading experts on LSS design, operations, maintenance, and innovation.

Ep 45 - Building an LSS Computer Model

What if you could predict water quality problems before they happen? In this episode of INFLOW, hosts Joe Arlotto and Dr. Jeff Keaffaber sit down with Paul Cooley, Aquatics Director at PC Aquatics and Senior Engineer with Ardurra, along with Chris Carr, Director of Life Support Systems at Long Beach Aquarium of the Pacific, to explore a groundbreaking new tool for the aquatic animal life support industry: a comprehensive Life Support System (LSS) computer model. Drawing on real-world data from Long Beach Aquarium of the Pacific, Paul and Chris discuss how advanced modeling is being used to simulate and predict critical water quality parameters, including dissolved oxygen, ammonia, nitrite, nitrate, pH, alkalinity, carbon dioxide, phosphorus, temperature, and more. The conversation explores how digital modeling can help operators troubleshoot system performance, optimize filtration processes, improve emergency preparedness, and even influence the design of future aquariums and aquatic facilities. The group also examines how data-driven decision-making, predictive analytics, and emerging AI technologies could transform aquatic animal life support operations by helping facilities conserve water, save energy, improve sustainability, and provide healthier environments for animals. Whether you're an LSS operator, aquarium engineer, aquatics professional, zoo professional, consultant, or student entering the field, this episode offers a fascinating look at the future of aquarium water quality management and the next generation of life support system design. Topics covered include: * Life support system (LSS) computer modeling * Aquarium water quality prediction * Dissolved oxygen (DO) management * Nitrogen, carbon, and phosphorus cycles * Aquarium design and engineering * Life support troubleshooting * Sea otter habitat water quality * Predictive analytics for aquariums * AI applications in aquatic animal life support * Sustainable aquarium operations (0:27) - What Innovation Means (4:10) - AALSO Conference Meetup (5:25) - Paul's Water Quality Model (7:34) - Long Beach DO Case Study (12:32) - Operator Simulation Tool (15:03) - Troubleshooting DO Systemwide (19:44) - Design and Sustainability Uses (24:16) - Future Features and Data Needs (27:06) - CO2 vs Turbidity Priorities (29:56) - Animal Health Data Ideas (32:55) - Long Beach Testing Roadmap (37:40) - Iterating the Model Interface (38:46) - Sponsor Break - Longhorn Organics (42:53) - Chris Carr Otter DO Crisis (45:35) - DO Mapping and Backwash Tradeoffs (48:53) - Beyond DO Coliform Predictions (50:45) - Data Call and Wrap Up Subscribe to INFLOW for conversations with the leaders, engineers, scientists, and operators shaping the future of aquatic animal life support systems. Stay connected at https://inflowlsspodcast.com [https://inflowlsspodcast.com]

Ep 44 - Inside AALSO 26 Part 1: Lessons from Chris Carr & Sean Bourgeois

In Part 1 of this special AALSO 26 series, the INFLOW podcast welcomes Chris Carr and Sean Bourgeois for an in-depth conversation on the evolving world of aquarium life support systems, aquatic engineering, and large-scale facility operations. From system design and project execution to troubleshooting complex aquatic environments, Chris and Sean share real-world insights from the front lines of the aquarium industry. Hosts Joe Arlotto and Dr. Jeff Keaffaber explore the challenges of balancing engineering, water quality, animal care, and operational efficiency in modern aquariums and aquatic facilities. This episode dives into practical lessons learned from major projects, the importance of collaboration between operators and designers, and the future of life support innovation. Whether you work in aquarium operations, aquatic engineering, water treatment, zoological facilities, or life support system design, this episode delivers valuable perspectives from two respected voices in the industry. Topics include: • Aquarium life support systems (LSS) • Aquatic engineering and system design • Water quality management • Aquarium operations and maintenance • AALSO 26 insights and industry trends • Large-scale aquatic facility projects • Collaboration between designers and operators • Lessons learned from the field (0:31) AALSO 26 Highlights (7:29) - Origins of AALSO (12:12) - Chris Carr Career Path (16:22) - Long Beach Aquarium of the Pacific Overview (20:32) - Saltwater Loop and Staffing (23:46) - Life Support and Water Quality (25:12) Sponsor Break: MDM Pumps (30:47) - Sean Career Path (34:10) - Big Tanks Expansion (40:32) - Saltwater Intake Process (43:00) - Salinity And ORP Talk (44:35) - Drum Filters And Day Tanks (50:06) - Biggest Operational Challenges (52:41) - Conference Takeaways Subscribe to INFLOW for conversations with leading experts in aquarium engineering, aquatic animal care, and life support technology. Stay connected at inflowlsspodcast.com [https://inflowlsspodcast.com/]

Ep 43 - Clear Views, Complex Systems: The Role of Acrylic in Modern Aquariums

In this episode of the INFLOW podcast, hosts Joe Arlotto and Dr. Jeff Keaffaber sit down with Zack Behrendt of American Sealants, Inc. for an in-depth conversation about the critical role acrylic plays in modern aquarium design, aquatic animal life support systems, and large-scale habitat construction. From massive viewing panels and underwater tunnels to structural bonding, waterproofing, and long-term maintenance, Zack shares expert insight into the engineering challenges behind public aquariums, zoos, marine mammal habitats, and aquatic exhibits. The discussion explores how acrylic technology has evolved, why proper sealing and installation are essential for animal safety and water quality, and how operators and designers can avoid costly failures in aquarium infrastructure. Whether you work in aquarium life support systems (LSS), aquatic engineering, exhibit fabrication, public aquarium operations, or marine construction, this episode delivers valuable knowledge on acrylic systems, aquarium maintenance, exhibit longevity, and the intersection of engineering and animal care. Topics include: * Aquarium acrylic panel installation * Sealants and waterproofing systems * Public aquarium construction * Life support system design * Structural engineering for aquatic exhibits * Acrylic maintenance and repair * Marine habitat infrastructure * Water containment solutions * Aquarium operations and design collaboration * Challenges in large-scale aquatic facilities (2:50) - Meet Zack (5:27) - ASI Services Overview (9:07) - Design Coordination and Engineering (11:11) - Glass vs Acrylic Tradeoffs (14:21) - Sealing and Support Details (16:24) - Catastrophic Failures and Inspections (22:13) - Common Leaks and Dye Testing (27:33) - Underwater Seal Repair Methods (30:19) - Polishing and Scratch Tiers (34:16) - UV Aging and Refill Rate Rules (43:25) - Robots and Cleaning Tech (45:55) - Chemical Do and Dont List (48:00) - Career Advice and Wrap Up INFLOW is the podcast dedicated to aquatic animal life support systems, aquarium engineering, water quality, and the professionals advancing the public aquarium industry.

Ep 42 - Keeping the Flow: Tori Sipos on the Critical Importance of LSS Reliability

In this episode of Inflow, hosts Joe Arlotto and Dr. Jeff Keaffaber welcome Tori Sipos, the Facilities & Maintenance Manager at Riverbanks Zoo and Garden. Tori shares her journey through the industry, moving from hands-on technician roles at the Georgia Aquarium to leading the broader facilities team at a premier zoo and garden. We explore the transition from "turning wrenches" on life support systems to managing the high-level logistics of an entire facility's infrastructure. Tori provides a unique look at the day-to-day responsibilities of a manager, from budgeting and administrative planning to ensuring the mechanical integrity of systems that support both animals and guests. Key topics discussed in this episode: * The Path to Management: Tori's progression from an entry-level technician at the Georgia Aquarium to a leadership role at Riverbanks Zoo and Garden. * Life at the Zoo: The unique challenges of overseeing facilities and maintenance in a zoo environment and the importance of a dedicated, specialized team. * The Evolution of the Role: Shifting focus from daily LSS maintenance to long-term project planning, facility coordination, and departmental leadership. * Building a Team Culture: The importance of mentorship, open communication, and fostering a "team-first" mentality in a high-stakes environment. * Advice for Aspiring Operators: Why "putting in the work" and being a reliable team player are the best ways to advance in the aquatic life support and facilities world. Whether you are a technician looking to move into management or simply fascinated by the infrastructure required to run a world-class zoo and aquarium, Tori Sipos offers invaluable insights into the "human" side of facilities engineering. (2:38) - Tori's Career Path (4:02) - Dive Ops and Exhibit Work (6:49) - Penguin System Breakdown (8:25) - Otter System and Maintenance (10:40) - Water Quality Challenges (11:34) - Grizzly Pool and Glass Media (16:09) - Sea Lion System Overview (17:16) - RMF Perlite Filter Explained (22:36) - Maintenance and Cost Tradeoffs (25:25) - Sea Lion Clarity Wins (28:29) - Saltwater Wetlands Design (33:38) - After Hours Monitoring (41:17) - Advice and Wrap Up Learn more about our sponsors: * Dryden Aqua * Integrated Aqua Systems * Visit them at inflowlsspodcast.com/sponsors [https://www.google.com/search?q=http://inflowlsspodcast.com/sponsors].