Something in the Water
Pine Forest Media | Environmental Science Podcasts
5.0from 6 ratings
- 12
- Episodes
- 6
- Ratings
- 2024
- First episode
About Something in the Water
Water sommelier, evolutionary biologist, and environmental science professor Dr. Elena Berg explores the world of mineral water, bottled water, and the sources behind what we drink. Across this 10-part limited documentary series, she introduces fine water tasting and the epicurean possibilities of natural mineral water while confronting the environmental questions surrounding the industry, including plastic pollution, water access, public trust, ownership, and sustainability. Through interviews with scientists, water sommeliers, and independent “small water farmers” around the world, Something in the Water examines how geography, infrastructure, culture, and power shape our drinking water. Listen to discover why water is never just water. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.
- Publisher
- Pine Forest Media | Environmental Science Podcasts
- Category
- education · science · science
- Language
- en
- Explicit
- No
- First episode
- 10 Apr 2024
- Latest episode
- 24 Jul 2025
Latest episodes
12 episodes in the feed.
24 Jul 2025
NEW Podcast: Oceanography (Trailer)
New from the Producers of Something in the Water Pine Forest Media presents Oceanography, a new weekly podcast hosted by science communicator Clark Marchese. This series explores the science, activism, and global cooperation at the heart of ocean conservation. Each episode features voices from across the marine world—scientists, Indigenous leaders, policymakers, and grassroots advocates—working to protect ocean life and understand the impact of a changing planet. Topics include how whales use sound to communicate, bioluminescent life in the deep sea, innovations in sustainable fishing, and the politics of global marine treaties. If you liked the balance of science and storytelling in Something in the Water, you’ll love Oceanography. 🎧 Listen to the trailer now and follow the show for new episodes starting July 29. 🌊 Subscribe to Oceanography on Spotify, (https://open.spotify.com/show/6cg6LgAEvCP32rj24KixpP)on Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/oceanography/id1826543626), or wherever you stream. 🌐 More at pineforestpods.com (https://www.pineforestpods.com) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.
28 Jun 2024
The Future of Fine Water: Aquaminerology and Experience
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 More information about Iskilde here (https://iskilde.dk/) More information about Aqua Amore here (https://www.aqua-amore.com/) More information about the episode and Something in the Water here (https://www.pineforestpods.com/pods/something-in-the-water). Episode Transcript and more information on the Pine Forest Media (http://pineforestpods.com)Website Follow Pine Forest Media on Instagram @pineforestmedia (https://www.instagram.com/pineforestmedia/) Hosted by Elena Berg Written and produced by Elena Berg and Clark Marchese Audio Editing by Clark Marchese Cover art by Sarah Glavan (https://www.sarahglavan.com/) Theme Music by Josef Salvat Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.
21 Jun 2024
The Public v. Private Debate for Water Management
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 (https://www.aup.edu/profile/okobtzeff) Dr. Kobtzeff’s website here (https://olegkobtzeff.blogspot.com/) More information about Mexico City Case Study (https://latinamericareports.com/a-sinking-thirsty-city-the-water-crisis-in-mexico-city/6075/) More information about Bolivia Case Study (https://www.ucpress.edu/blog/58831/how-bolivians-fought-for-and-won-water-access-for-all/) More information about the episode and Something in the Water here (https://www.pineforestpods.com/pods/something-in-the-water). Episode Transcript and more information on the Pine Forest Media (http://pineforestpods.com)Website Follow Pine Forest Media on Instagram @pineforestmedia (https://www.instagram.com/pineforestmedia/) Hosted by Elena Berg Written and produced by Elena Berg and Clark Marchese Audio Editing by Clark Marchese Cover art by Sarah Glavan (https://www.sarahglavan.com/) Theme Music by Josef Salvat Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.
14 Jun 2024
Distrust at the Tap: Addressing Public Water Fears
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 (https://www.uni-heidelberg.de/politikwissenschaften/personal/tosun/person/index_en.html) Browse Dr. Tosun’s publications on Research Gate (https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Jale-Tosun) More information about the episode and Something in the Water here (https://www.pineforestpods.com/pods/something-in-the-water). Episode Transcript and more information on the Pine Forest Media (http://pineforestpods.com)Website Follow Pine Forest Media on Instagram @pineforestmedia (https://www.instagram.com/pineforestmedia/) Hosted by Elena Berg Written and produced by Elena Berg and Clark Marchese Audio Editing by Clark Marchese Cover art by Sarah Glavan (https://www.sarahglavan.com/) Theme Music by Josef Salvat Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.
7 Jun 2024
The Austrian Oasis: Water Wealth and Wossa
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 Find more information about Wossa here. (https://wossa.life/) More information about the episode and Something in the Water here (https://www.pineforestpods.com/pods/something-in-the-water). Episode Transcript and more information on the Pine Forest Media (http://pineforestpods.com)website Follow Pine Forest Media on Instagram @pineforestmedia (https://www.instagram.com/pineforestmedia/) Hosted by Elena Berg Written and produced by Elena Berg and Clark Marchese Audio Editing by Clark Marchese Cover art by Sarah Glavan (https://www.sarahglavan.com/) Theme Music by Josef Salvat Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.
31 May 2024
Building a Water Brand in the Outback: An Australian Perspective
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 Follow Josef Salvat on Instagram. (https://www.instagram.com/josefsalvat/?hl=en) Listen to Josef Salvat’s Music (https://open.spotify.com/artist/64PJHZDQTPPVBCdwnv22Wz?autoplay=true) More information about the episode and Something in the Water here (https://www.pineforestpods.com/pods/something-in-the-water). Episode Transcript and more information on the Pine Forest Media (http://pineforestpods.com)website Follow Pine Forest Media on Instagram @pineforestmedia (https://www.instagram.com/pineforestmedia/) Hosted by Elena Berg Written and produced by Elena Berg and Clark Marchese Audio Editing by Clark Marchese Cover art by Sarah Glavan (https://www.sarahglavan.com/) Theme Music by Josef Salvat Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.
24 May 2024
Water Storytelling in South Africa: Giving Water Value
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 Find more information about Candice Jansen here. (https://candicejansen.com/) Follow Candice Jansen on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/watersommeliersa/) and TikTok (https://www.tiktok.com/@watersomm). Sample water menus here (https://svalbardi.com/blogs/news/water-menus-around-the-world) More information about the episode and Something in the Water here (https://www.pineforestpods.com/pods/something-in-the-water). Episode Transcript and more information on the Pine Forest Media (http://pineforestpods.com)website Follow Pine Forest Media on Instagram @pineforestmedia (https://www.instagram.com/pineforestmedia/) Hosted by Elena Berg Written and produced by Elena Berg and Clark Marchese Audio Editing by Clark Marchese Cover art by Sarah Glavan (https://www.sarahglavan.com/) Theme Music by Josef Salvat Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.
17 May 2024
Aava in India: Sustainability in Context
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 Find more information about Avanti Mehta here (https://finewaters.com/water-food/water-sommeliers/avanti-mehta-india). More information about Aava here (https://www.aavawater.com/). More information about the episode and Something in the Water here (https://www.pineforestpods.com/pods/something-in-the-water). Episode Transcript and more information on the Pine Forest Media (http://pineforestpods.com)Website Follow Pine Forest Media on Instagram @pineforestmedia (https://www.instagram.com/pineforestmedia/) Hosted by Elena Berg Written and produced by Elena Berg and Clark Marchese Audio Editing by Clark Marchese Cover art by Sarah Glavan (https://www.sarahglavan.com/) Theme Music by Josef Salvat Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.
10 May 2024
Premium Water from a Pub: Crag Spring Water
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 (https://www.beardedwatersommelier.co.uk/) Follow Doran on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/beardedwatersommelier/)and TikTok (https://www.tiktok.com/@beardedwatersommelier?_t=8ktDozJGIme&_r=1) More information about Crag here (https://www.cragspringwater.co.uk/) More information about the episode and Something in the Water here (https://www.pineforestpods.com/pods/something-in-the-water). Episode transcript (pineforestpods.com/sitw-episodes) and more information on the Pine Forest Media (http://pineforestpods.com)Website Follow Pine Forest Media on Instagram @pineforestmedia (https://www.instagram.com/pineforestmedia/) Hosted by Elena Berg Written and produced by Elena Berg and Clark Marchese Audio Editing by Clark Marchese Cover art by Sarah Glavan (https://www.sarahglavan.com/) Theme Music by Josef Salvat Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.
3 May 2024
Plastic: the Elephant in the Room
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 these issues intersect with water consumption. The episode serves as a wake-up call that the bottled water industry is only one of many industries contributing to the plastic problems at hand and stresses the need for wide scale systemic change. Episode Guests: Dr. Sherri Mason and Malia Elder Find more information about Dr. Mason here (https://www.sherrimason.com/) and browse her publications on Research Gate (https://www.researchgate.net/scientific-contributions/Sherri-A-Mason-2050214029). More information about the episode and Something in the Water here (https://www.pineforestpods.com/pods/something-in-the-water). Episode transcrip (pineforestpods.com/sitw-episodes)t and more information on the Pine Forest Media (http://pineforestpods.com)Website Follow Pine Forest Media on Instagram @pineforestmedia (https://www.instagram.com/pineforestmedia/) Hosted by Elena Berg Written and produced by Elena Berg and Clark Marchese Audio Editing by Clark Marchese Cover art by Sarah Glavan (https://www.sarahglavan.com/) Theme Music by Josef Salvat Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.
26 Apr 2024
Bringing Water to the Table
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. Episode Guest: Michael Mascha Find more information about Michael Mascha (https://finewaters.com/resources/about) and the Fine Water Society here. (https://finewaters.com/) Water menu comedy sketch here (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v2qydjVbLJk&pp=ygUcd2F0ZXIgbWVudSBwZW4gdGVsbGVyIGNvbWVkeQ%3D%3D) More information about the episode and Something in the Water here (https://www.pineforestpods.com/pods/something-in-the-water). Episode transcript (pineforestpods.com/sitw-episodes)and more information on the Pine Forest Media (http://pineforestpods.com)Website Follow Pine Forest Media on Instagram @pineforestmedia (https://www.instagram.com/pineforestmedia/) Hosted by Elena Berg Written and produced by Elena Berg and Clark Marchese Audio Editing by Clark Marchese Cover art by Sarah Glavan (https://www.sarahglavan.com/) Theme Music by Josef Salvat Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.
10 Apr 2024
Something in the Water Trailer
Hosted by water sommelier and environmental scientist, Elena Berg, Something in the Water is a 10-part mini-series that 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. Something in the Water is a Pine Forest Media production and more information can be found on the Pine Forest Media website (pineforestpods.com) or on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/pineforestmedia/) @pineforestmedia. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.
Reach and audience
Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.
- Apple Podcasts (US)
- 5.0 / 5
- 6 ratings
Podcast Authority Score: 24 / 100
A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.
- Quality
- 7
- Social presence
- 90
- YouTube
- 0
- Engagement
- 60
Host of Something in the Water?
Claim your podcast to manage its listing and keep your show details accurate.
Pod Engine is an independent podcast discovery and analytics service and is not affiliated with or endorsed by this podcast. Artwork and show content belong to their owners. Full legal notice.
Explore this show
Podcast research with Pod Engine