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.

Episode Guests: Jan Bender and Michael Tanousis

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Hosted by Elena Berg

Written and produced by Elena Berg and Clark Marchese

Audio Editing by Clark Marchese

Cover art by Sarah Glavan

Theme Music by Josef Salvat

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this thought-provoking episode of "Something in the Water," host Elena Berg dives into the complex debate of water privatization versus public management. Joined by Dr. Oleg Kobtzeff, Associate 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 uncover the realities behind the water coming out of our taps, shedding light on the power dynamics that influence water management globally. Whether you’re concerned about environmental sustainability or curious about the forces shaping water policies, this episode offers a comprehensive overview of a topic that touches all of our lives.

Episode Guest: Dr. Oleg Kobtzeff

More information about Dr. Kobtzeff here

Dr. Kobtzeff’s website here

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Episode Transcript and more information on the Pine Forest Media Website

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Hosted by Elena Berg

Written and produced by Elena Berg and Clark Marchese

Audio Editing by Clark Marchese

Cover art by Sarah Glavan

Theme Music by Josef Salvat

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this thought-provoking episode of "Something in the Water," host Elena Berg 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. Through this exploration, 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.

Episode Guest: Dr. Jale Tosun

More information about Dr. Tosun here

Browse Dr. Tosun’s publications on Research Gate

More information about the episode and Something in the Water here.

Episode Transcript and more information on the Pine Forest Media Website

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Hosted by Elena Berg

Written and produced by Elena Berg and Clark Marchese

Audio Editing by Clark Marchese

Cover art by Sarah Glavan

Theme Music by Josef Salvat

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of "Something in the Water," host 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. The episode unveils how access to clean, fresh water from springs and wells contributes not only to Austria's physical health but also to its collective well-being and happiness.

Episode Guests: Denise and Rainer Hofmeister

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Episode Transcript and more information on the Pine Forest Media website

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Hosted by Elena Berg

Written and produced by Elena Berg and Clark Marchese

Audio Editing by Clark Marchese

Cover art by Sarah Glavan

Theme Music by Josef Salvat

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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.

Episode Guest: Josef Salvat

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More information about the episode and Something in the Water here.

Episode Transcript and more information on the Pine Forest Media website

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Hosted by Elena Berg

Written and produced by Elena Berg and Clark Marchese

Audio Editing by Clark Marchese

Cover art by Sarah Glavan

Theme Music by Josef Salvat

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this riveting episode of "Something in the Water," host Elena Berg explores the multifaceted world of water in South Africa with water sommelier Candice Jansen. Candice is an expert in water storytelling. 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 complex interplay of geography, politics, and social justice in shaping water access and reveals how digital platforms can be used to broadcast water education.

Episode Guest: Candice Jansen

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Sample water menus here

More information about the episode and Something in the Water here.

Episode Transcript and more information on the Pine Forest Media website

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Hosted by Elena Berg

Written and produced by Elena Berg and Clark Marchese

Audio Editing by Clark Marchese

Cover art by Sarah Glavan

Theme Music by Josef Salvat

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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. Discover the serendipitous origins of Aava, whose water can be traced back to India's oldest mountain range, offering naturally alkaline water. 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.

Episode Guest: Avanti Mehta

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More information about Aava here.

More information about the episode and Something in the Water here.

Episode Transcript and more information on the Pine Forest Media Website

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Hosted by Elena Berg

Written and produced by Elena Berg and Clark Marchese

Audio Editing by Clark Marchese

Cover art by Sarah Glavan

Theme Music by Josef Salvat

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this intriguing episode of "Something in the Water," host Elena Berg interviews Doran Binder, the unexpected water entrepreneur behind Crag, a fine mineral water company in the UK. We delve 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 environmentally friendly practices, using reusable glass bottles and local distribution. Elena and Doran discuss the importance of hydration, the environmental impact of bottled water, and the personal fulfillment of contributing positively to the planet and local community. Join us to uncover the unexpected paths life can take and the profound role water plays in our health and environment.

Episode Guest: Doran Binder

Find more information about Doran Binder here

Follow Doran on Instagram and TikTok

More information about Crag here

More information about the episode and Something in the Water here.

Episode transcript and more information on the Pine Forest Media Website

Follow Pine Forest Media on Instagram @pineforestmedia

Hosted by Elena Berg

Written and produced by Elena Berg and Clark Marchese

Audio Editing by Clark Marchese

Cover art by Sarah Glavan

Theme Music by Josef Salvat

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.