Elevate is a four-pillar initiative created to help people in the pool and outdoor living industry grow—professionally, creatively, and personally. Whether you’re new to the industry, finding your footing, or looking to sharpen your leadership and technical skills, Elevate exists to bridge knowledge gaps, amplify voices, and create clear pathways forward. Our mission is simple: inspire the next generation, fill foundational gaps, and accelerate growth across the industry.
Long-form, honest conversations with industry leaders, builders, designers, and entrepreneurs—focused on people, not products.
podcast
A growing Facebook group where professionals connect, ask questions, share insight, and learn together.
Community
Affordable, foundational online education designed to fill industry knowledge gaps and build real confidence.
Courses
A premium, in-person experience for those seeking focused guidance, clarity, and next-level growth.
Mentorship
Meet the Founders
Together, Jason and Chad built Elevate to be the resource they wish they had earlier in their careers.
Jason Brownlee
ASLA, IWI, SWD Master, CBDP Master
Founder of The J. Brownlee Design Group, Jason is a nationally respected luxury outdoor living designer known for blending creativity, technical precision, and education-driven leadership. His passion lies in helping designers and builders think deeper, design better, and grow with intention.
Chad Christenson
Licensed Contractor, IWI
Owner of Watermark Pools and Outdoor Living, Chad is a 22 year custom pool builder with a reputation for craftsmanship, honesty, and mentorship. With years of hands-on construction experience, Chad brings real-world perspective to every conversation—grounded in what actually works on job sites and in business.
Proudly Supported By:
The Elevate Show with Jason & Chad
The Elevate Podcast is an industry podcast about people—not sales pitches or trade-show talking points. Episodes feature relaxed, long-form conversations that explore origin stories, pivotal moments, failures, successes, and the deeper “why” behind what drives our guests. Expect insight, humor, honesty, and the occasional drink raised in good company.
Available on:
A private Facebook group for pool, design, construction, and outdoor living professionals at all stages of their careers. This community is built for learning, sharing, and connection—not noise.
Inside the group you’ll find thoughtful discussions, expert insight, real questions, and practical answers across design, construction, business, and leadership.
Elevate Design Community Group
There’s no trade school for this industry—and that’s the gap Elevate is here to fill. Our online courses are designed as an accessible on-ramp for students, new hires, and professionals who want a stronger foundation without travel or massive expense.
Affordable monthly subscriptions. Live and on-demand learning. Built to grow with you.
Industry Education Courses
The “Elevate Eight” Course Track
Design 101
Hydraulics 101
Pool Systems 101
Construction Processes 101
Sales 101
Business 101
Service 101
New Hire / New to the Industry 101
For those ready to go deeper, Elevate offers a high-touch mentorship experience in Nashville with Jason and Chad. This in-person program is designed to help contractors and designers gain clarity, refine systems, and see real projects up close.
Mentorship Experience
Benefits include:
One-on-one business and design guidance
Jobsite and project walkthroughs
Honest feedback on strengths and gaps
Direct access to years of experience
Ready to elevate your learning journey? Reach out to schedule a complimentary consultation and discover the best path forward.