Something in the Water

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 importa...

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 d...

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...

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 h...

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 o...

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 curren...

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 cruci...

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...

In this episode of "Something in the Water," host Elena Berg tackles the pressing issue of plastic pollution, focusing on the bottled water industry's environmental footprint. Featuring insights from anti-plastic activist Malia Elder and plastics researcher Dr. Sherri Mason. Dr. Mason reveals her research finding plastic in our drinking water. Malia explains the social justice implications of plastic production and waste, and how t...

 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 w...