Something in the Water
Something in the Water - Elena Berg’s Debut Podcast.
Hosted by water sommelier and environmental scientist, Elena Berg, this series introduces the fine water industry, investigates the drinking water landscapes in countries around the world and unpacks the complex relationship between bottled water and sustainability.
Drink it up!
Credits: Hosted by Elena Berg. Written and Produced by Elena Berg and Clark Marchese. Audio Engineering by Clark Marchese. Theme Music by Josef Salvat. Cover Art by Sarah Glavan . Pine Forest Media logo by Laurel Wong. Special thanks to the American University of Paris.
In the first episode of Something in the Water, host Elena Berg interviews Michael Mascha, a founder of the Fine Water Society. Together, they introduce the concept of a water sommelier and the epicurean experiences that water has to offer. They discuss Michael’s journey in creating the Fine Water Society and the growth of the organization, the role that water sommeliers have to play in sustainability, and explain why water is not just water.
You can listen now on Spotify, on Apple Podcasts, or wherever stream!
In the podcast episode "Something in the Water," hosted by Elena Berg, the focus is on the environmental and social justice impacts of plastic pollution in the bottled water industry. Guests include anti-plastic activist Malia Elder and researcher Dr. Sherri Mason, who shares her findings on plastic in drinking water. Malia discusses the broader social issues linked to plastic production and waste. This episode highlights the significant role of the bottled water sector in the larger plastic crisis and calls for extensive systemic reforms.
You can listen now on Spotify, on Apple Podcasts, or wherever you stream!
In this episode, we hear from Doran Binder, the unexpected entrepreneur behind Crag, a fine mineral water company in the UK. Elena dives into Doran's journey from purchasing a failing pub to discovering a precious water source beneath it, leading to the creation of Crag. Focused on sustainability, Crag commits to using reusable glass bottles and local distribution. Elena and Doran discuss hydration, the environmental impact of bottled water, and the personal fulfillment of contributing positively to the planet and local community.
You can listen now on Spotify , on Apple Podcasts,
In this enlightening episode of "Something in the Water," host Elena Berg takes us on a hydrating journey from the UK to India, focusing on Avanti Mehta and her family's brand, Aava, whose water can be traced back to India's oldest mountain range. Elena and Avanti delve into the complexities of water sustainability, the impact of packaging, and the crucial role of trust in bottled water. They explore how Aava balances tradition, wellness, and environmental responsibility, reflecting the podcast's theme of local solutions to global water challenges.
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In this episode, host Elena Berg explores the multifaceted world of water in South Africa with water sommelier Candice Jansen. Candice explains how bringing fine water to restaurant spaces not only gives greater value to water, but serves as an entry point for greater water awareness on a host of water issues. As they navigate the historical and current water landscape in South Africa, the conversation explores the interplay of geography, politics, and social justice in shaping water access and reveals how digital platforms can be used to broadcast water education.
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In this episode of "Something in the Water," host Elena Berg ventures to the Australian outback with musician Josef Salvat to explore the unique story of turning a natural mineral water source on his family’s farm into a premium water brand. The two delve into the challenges and ethics of bottling natural water, the complexities of water rights, and sustainability in an Australian context. The two also discuss the symbolic nature of water and its role in an epicurean landscape.
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In this episode, Elena Berg interviews Denise and Rainer Hofmeister who share insights from their family-owned natural mineral water brand, Wossa. They illustrate Austria's unique relationship with water, one of the world’s most water-wealthy nations. The conversation highlights how even in Austria, there is still a need for proactive resource management and increased water education. They discuss how Wossa’s sustainability initiatives promote both a successful business model as well as devout environmental stewardship.
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This episode shifts the focus from bottled water to tap water, exploring the complex web of trust, taste, and toxicity. With the help of Dr. Jale Tosun from Heidelberg University, the discussion delves into the reasons behind public mistrust in tap water, influenced by past failures and current perceptions. The episode also contrasts American skepticism with European confidence in tap water, highlighting initiatives across Europe aimed at boosting public trust through legislative and informational campaigns. Elena and Dr. Tosun unravel how social, environmental, and political factors shape our water choices and what can be done to restore confidence in public water systems.
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This episode dives into the complex debate of water privatization versus public management. Joined by Dr. Oleg Kobtzeff, Professor at the American University of Paris, the discussion explores the implications of private and public water systems on consumption, conservation, and accessibility. From examining the economic motivations of privatization to the democratic values upheld by public systems, this episode dissects the pros and cons associated with each approach. With insights into the environmental politics and hydro politics, Elena and Dr. Kobtzeff shed light on the power dynamics that influence water management globally.
Listen now on Spotify, on Apple Podcasts
In the final episode of "Something in the Water," we revisit our journey through the fascinating world of drinking water. Host Elena Berg chats with Jan Bender, a small water farmer from Denmark, about the unique story behind Iskilde water and the challenges of being a steward in the water industry. We also hear from Michael Tanousis, a water sommelier, who shares expert tips on how to select the best water and explains the importance of clear labeling and regulation. Join us as we wrap up the series with practical advice for consumers and reflections on the future of fine water.
Listen now on Spotify, on Apple Podcasts!
