What Matters Water TV and Podcast

Wildfires are changing. Is our water infrastructure ready? California wildfires aren't just getting more frequent—they're getting bigger, faster, and more destructive. When the flames rise, water is our most powerful firefighting tool. But can our water systems handle the demand? In this episode of What Matters Water TV & Podcast, we dive into the critical connection between wildfires and water. How do massive fires impact water quality? Are our water systems built to withstand both drought and high fire demand? And what lessons can we learn from past disasters? Join us as we hear from experts who have been on the front lines of fire response and water resilience:

California's water rules are changing—permanently. Starting January 1, 2025, new regulations from the State Water Resources Control Board will require major water suppliers to cut water delivery significantly by 2040. This isn't just about managing water during droughts anymore—this is about building drought resilience into everyday life. Water agencies across the state will now have to develop community-specific water budgets that account for residential, commercial, and landscape use. The measures include limiting outdoor watering, encouraging water-efficient appliances, and pushing Californians to rethink how we use every drop. And here's the kicker: failure to comply could cost agencies up to $10,000 a day in fines. So what does this mean for all of us? Are these changes a burden—or an opportunity to innovate? In episode 22 of What Matters Water TV + Podcast, we have brought together a panel of experts to explore just that: Chelsea Haines, Regulatory Director with the Association of California Water Agencies, offering a statewide perspective on this massive shift. Kelly Kopp, Professor and Extension Specialist at Utah State University, who's focused on water efficiency research. William Ringland, Public Affairs and Conservation Manager at East Valley Water District, where smaller agencies are stepping up to meet big expectations. Fiona Sanchez, Director of Water Resources at Irvine Ranch Water District, who's at the forefront of implementing large-scale water solutions. Together, we'll unpack the opportunities, the challenges, and the practical steps agencies and communities must take to get this right. The stakes are high, and only time will tell if these changes deliver a sustainable water future without creating financial strain on communities.

Imagine a future where California faces increasing water instability. The state experiences more rain, less snow, and an uptick in extreme weather events like droughts and floods. Layer in the looming threats of sea level rise, climate change, and seismic activity, and the picture becomes even more complex. Now, consider a solution designed to tackle these challenges head-on—the Delta Conveyance Project. This ambitious, multi-billion-dollar initiative aims to enhance water reliability for 27 million Californians by modernizing the water transport infrastructure within the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta. But what does this mean for the environment, local communities, and California's long-term water security? In Episode 21 of What Matters Water TV + Podcast, we navigate these critical issues with insights from three leading experts: Graham Bradner, Executive Director of the Delta Conveyance Design and Construction Authority, will delve into the technical complexities and innovations driving this monumental effort. Carrie Buckman, Delta Conveyance Environmental Program Manager from the California Department of Water Resources, will share her expertise in environmental planning and permitting, offering a glimpse into the state's vision for this transformative project. David Sunding, Emeritus Professor at UC Berkeley, will provide a thoughtful analysis of the project's economic ramifications. Join us as we explore the intricacies of the Delta Conveyance Project and its potential to reshape California's water future. Prepare to dive deep into the critical issues that will define the next chapter in the state's water story.

In this very special episode of What Matters Water TV + Podcast, we dive into the production team's favorite moments from the first 19 episodes. Join us as we revisit the cutting-edge water innovations that amazed us, tackle the urgent challenges of climate change affecting our water policies, and share the personal stories of the dedicated people ensuring that water flows from our taps. Meredith Yinger, the producer of What Matters Water TV + Podcast through SheTV, steps in as host for this episode. Charley Wilson, normally the voice guiding us through each episode, joins as a guest alongside Lynn Lipinski, the writer and guest booker for the show. Expect laughs, some funny outtakes, and a unique glimpse behind the scenes. Enjoy their favorite moments with guests like Wade Crowfoot, California's Secretary of Natural Resources, Karla Nemeth, Director of the Department of Water Resources, Joaquin Esquivel, Chair of the State Water Resources Control Board, and more. Tune in for a celebration of water's wonders, challenges, and the inspiring individuals dedicated to preserving this vital resource. What Matters Water TV + Podcast has had 42 guests on its show so far. Also included in this episode are: Newsha Ajami, Anselmo Collins, Heather Dyer, Tony Estremera, Anatole Falagan, Senator Eduardo Garcia, Martha Guzman, Adel Hagekhalil, Faith Kearns, Joone Lopez, Karla Nemeth, Dave Pedersen, Mark Pestrella, Senator Henry Stern, and Mayor Acquanetta Warren. #cawater #SoCalWater #water #watermanagement #waterpolicy #californiawater #WhatMattersWater #Podcast

Get to know Assemblywoman Blanca Rubio from California's 48th District and listen along while she and host Charley Wilson delve into a profound conversation that unpacks the complexities of water management and policy in California. The dialogue also gets personal, as the assemblywoman shares her personal story, from her roots in Mexico, her family's journey to citizenship, her struggle to learn English and overcome stereotypes. Learn how she has become a powerful voice in California politics, and how her experiences shape her approach to governance and advocacy. Assemblywoman Rubio's impressive career spans decades, during which she has made significant contributions to water management. From her early days as the youngest member of a local water board to her influential tenure on the State's Water, Parks, and Wildlife Committee, Rubio brings unparalleled expertise and a passionate commitment to sustainable water resources. In this episode, you will gain insightful perspectives on: The ongoing tug-of-war over water resources between Northern and Southern California. The intricate challenges of legislative compromise necessary to address the diverse needs of the state. Pivotal moments and experiences that have shaped Assemblywoman Rubio's journey and influence in water policy. Don't miss the chance to become informed and inspired by Assemblywoman Rubio's journey and the vital issues at the forefront of California's water management. Tune in to Episode #19 now to watch or listen and stay connected to the pressing matters that impact our communities daily.

Get to know "What Matters Water TV + Podcast" in two minutes or less in our new podcast trailer designed to tell you what we're all about!

Get to know "What Matters Water TV + Podcast" in two minutes or less in our new podcast trailer video designed to show you what we're all about!

Picture a world where wastewater transforms into drinking water like a fairytale glass slipper. California's water regulator is leading the charge towards a future where purified wastewater becomes clean, delicious drinking water for all. But people have questions about how advanced water purification will work, and we're here to get some answers from the people who are turning wastewater into wonder. In Episode 18 of What Matters Water TV + Podcast, we are diving deep into how we can squeeze every last drop of use out of our water resources. In this episode, we're exploring Direct Potable Reuse or DPR (also known as advanced water purification). Whatever you want to call it it, this is California's groundbreaking solution to water scarcity. To unravel the nuances of DPR, we've gathered a panel of experts. Tony Estremera from Valley Water will shed light on the Silicon Valley Advanced Water Purification Center, a pioneering facility in northern California. Also, joining us is Dave Pedersen, overseeing operations at Las Virgenes Municipal Water District and serving as President of WaterReuse California. And Dawn Taffler is a recycled water specialist at Kennedy Jenks, bringing extensive expertise in planning, engineering, and demystifying the complexities of water reuse. From ‘advanced purified water' to public education, we'll delve into cutting-edge technologies and regulations ensuring the safety of reclaimed water. It's a tale of scarcity, science, and human ingenuity. And let's not reduce it to just “toilet to tap,” as the process entails far more complexity and innovation than the term suggests. Tune in as we dive into the depths of advanced water purification – this is not your average water cooler chat!

Welcome to another insightful episode of "What Matters Water TV + Podcast"! In this eye-opening discussion, we dive into the world of water management in California and the power of collaboration with special guests Heather Dyer and Betsy Miller. These two remarkable women, both general managers and biologists, share their experiences working together in San Bernardino Valley to achieve groundbreaking results in groundwater recharge. Their story is a testament to the impact of teamwork and entrepreneurial spirit in water policy, highlighted by their "fail fast" approach to foster innovation and progress. Not only do they tackle complex issues like water conservation, but they also navigate being the only women in professional meetings with grace and determination. Join us as we explore the dynamic and challenges of being female leaders in a male-dominated field, and how their unique perspectives have helped drive change and efficiency in water management. Dyer is the general manager of the San Bernardino Valley Municipal Water District, and Miller is the general manager of San Bernardino Valley Water Conservation District. This episode is a must-watch for anyone interested in environmental policy, water conservation, and women's leadership in science and engineering. Don't miss out on this enlightening conversation!  

Introducing "What Matters Water TV + Podcast," your essential destination for all things water in California. In this groundbreaking series, we dive deep into the pivotal conversations and innovations that are shaping the future of water management in the Golden State. Join us as we sit down with some of California's top water leaders, including Adel Hagekhalil, General Manager of the Metropolitan Water District; Karla Nemeth, Director of the California Department of Water Resources; E. Joaquin Esquivel, Chair of the State Water Resources Control Board, and more. They'll provide insights into their roles, the challenges they face, and their visions for a sustainable water future in the nation's most populous state. But What Matters Water TV + Podcast goes beyond the boardroom. We explore the stories of communities, innovators, and everyday Californians whose lives are profoundly impacted by this precious resource. From drought resilience and storage to stormwater capture and groundwater management, we're at the forefront of water policy. Water is not just a resource; it's a reflection of our values and priorities. So whether you're a policy wonk, an environmental enthusiast, or simply someone who cares deeply about California's future, What Matters Water TV + Podcast is your gateway to understanding the most vital liquid in the West. Subscribe now and join us on this captivating journey through California's water landscape.

Introducing "What Matters Water TV + Podcast," your essential destination for all things water in California. In this groundbreaking series, we dive deep into the pivotal conversations and innovations that are shaping the future of water management in the Golden State. Join us as we sit down with some of California's top water leaders, including Adel Hagekhalil, General Manager of the Metropolitan Water District; Karla Nemeth, Director of the California Department of Water Resources; E. Joaquin Esquivel, Chair of the State Water Resources Control Board, and more. They'll provide insights into their roles, the challenges they face, and their visions for a sustainable water future in the nation's most populous state. But What Matters Water TV + Podcast goes beyond the boardroom. We explore the stories of communities, innovators, and everyday Californians whose lives are profoundly impacted by this precious resource. From drought resilience and storage to stormwater capture and groundwater management, we're at the forefront of water policy. Water is not just a resource; it's a reflection of our values and priorities. So whether you're a policy wonk, an environmental enthusiast, or simply someone who cares deeply about California's future, What Matters Water TV + Podcast is your gateway to understanding the most vital liquid in the West. Subscribe now and join us on this captivating journey through California's water landscape.

In this episode of What Matters Water TV + Podcast, we tackle the pressing issue of equity, access, and affordability in Southern California's drinking water. Hosted by Charley Wilson, we're joined by three remarkable guests who are at the forefront of this conversation. Martin Ludlow, a champion of water justice and founder of Groundswell for Water, Fontana Mayor Acquanetta Warren, a city leader advocating for underserved communities, and Anatole Falagan, a seasoned utilities expert and assistant general manager at Long Beach Utilities, share their insights and expertise. Together, we explore the challenges and solutions in ensuring equitable access to clean drinking water. From engaging communities to navigating governance, we delve into the complexities of this vital issue. Join us on this journey to make California's “Human Right to Water” a reality, and discover how we can work towards a future with equitable, accessible, and affordable water for all in Southern California. Whether you're a seasoned water advocate or new to the discussion, our podcast provides a platform to navigate the depths of water equity, inclusion, and affordability. Dive in and join the conversation for positive change!

Get ready to explore the cutting-edge world of desalination and uncover the future of water supply in Southern California! Join us as we dive headfirst into this technology with four distinguished guests from San Diego County Water Authority, Eastern Municipal Water District, Las Virgenes Municipal Water District and South Coast Water District. Learn how these projects work, their impact on California's thirst during dry times and so much more today only on What Matters Water TV + Podcast! From coastlines to arid inland regions, seawater and brackish water desalination projects are popping up like never before. But how do they work? What is the environmental impact? And can they really quench California's thirst during those dry times? Are they truly drought proof? Joining us to answer these questions are four distinguished guests, each at the helm of a water agency contributing to this critical conversation. We have Dan Denham, General Manager of the San Diego County Water Authority; Joe Mouawad, General Manager of the Eastern Municipal Water District; David Pedersen, General Manager of the Las Virgenes Municipal Water District; and Rick Shintaku, General Manager of the South Coast Water District. Buckle up and prepare to be amazed because the future of water starts now, right here on What Matters Water TV + Podcast.

Are you curious to learn more about how Infrastructure L.A. will affect Los Angeles's water landscape?  In this episode of SCWC, we are joined by three esteemed experts from Los Angeles County Public Works and the LA Department of Water and Power. They'll provide cutting-edge insights into the implications of this ambitious undertaking for water supply management and beyond—don't miss it!  Joining the discussion is Mark Pestrella, the CEO and Director of Los Angeles County Public Works, bringing his expertise on infrastructure development and its implications for the county.  Our second guest is Marty Adams, the general manager of the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power, who will enlighten us on the crucial role of water supply management in this monumental initiative. Thirdly, we have Anselmo Collins, the senior assistant general manager of the water systems for LADWP and the chair of the Infrastructure Initiative's Water Committee. His insights into the integration of recycled water and sustainable practices will be instrumental in understanding the far-reaching impact of Infrastructure L.A. on LA's water landscape. So, grab your favorite beverage, settle in, and let's embark on this enlightening journey through the world of Infrastructure L.A. and its profound implications for the future of water in Los Angeles.

California's water supply is being tested by volatile weather patterns, including droughts and extreme rainfall. To prepare for a future with less snow and more dry spells, the state must diversify its water sources, modernize its water infrastructure, and improve watershed collaboration.    The stakes are high. Experts say we could lose 10% of our water supply in the next 20 years due to climate change. Preparing for this challenge is a mammoth responsibility, confronting state and water leaders, like those at California's Natural Resources Agency. We're with the trailblazer in charge of this agency today: Wade Crowfoot. As Secretary of Natural Resources, Crowfoot advises the Governor on environmental and natural resource issues, making him a key player in securing our state's future. He is a public policy and environmental expert with over twenty years of experience in water, fisheries, climate, and sustainability issues. Prior to joining the Governor's cabinet, he headed up the Water Foundation, playing a key role in creating partnerships that included leaders in agriculture and environmental conservation groups. The results? Shared water solutions that benefit communities, the economy, and the environment across the American West. Tune in to learn more about the issue and opportunities facing California water now and the man given the responsibility for charge for meeting those challenges.

Would you like to know some fascinating facts about water? Then you won't want to miss this - in episode #12 our host Charley Wilson talks with renowned climatologist and hydrologist, Peter Gleick, author of the new book The Three Ages of Water. Water, to paraphrase Dr. Gleick, is special. It's a basic natural resource that we depend on as much as our ancestors did, but it's also a part of our biology and evolutionary history, shaping human civilization's religions and art and cultures while nurturing the environment. Water made us, long before we tried to control and manage it. Peter Gleick has spent years researching and writing about the crucial links between water, energy, food and health and the ramifications of climate change. His new book is an epic recounting of water's history and management through time. And it's a wake-up call as well, as he believes if we don't fix our water management issues, a dystopian future awaits us. Dr. Gleick is co-founder of the Pacific Institute for Studies in Development, Environment and Security in Oakland, California, a nonprofit research institution dedicated to creating and advancing solutions to the world's most pressing water challenges. Among his more than thirty honors and awards are membership in the U.S. National Academy of Sciences and a MacArthur Foundation “Genius” Fellowship. If you are interested in learning more about water issues and finding out more about his incredible work, then check out this podcast!    Follow us on Twitter: SCWC: https://twitter.com/SoCalWaterComm

Wherever you live in California, cultivating a secure and abundant water future is a goal we can all support. But taking the necessary steps to get there can be hard to do. Especially as we watch our state whipsaw through weather extremes. In just twelve months the state has gone from a historic and severe drought to above average rainfall and snow. Many people are asking, is the drought over? It's the wrong question. In episode #11, host Charley Wilson talks to two water leaders who are trying to push the conversation about California water beyond the drought. What they want to know is what will California and its water supply look like in ten years? What about in thirty?  And how can we take steps today to ensure that the things we love about California are preserved for everyone who lives here in a fair and sustainable way? On this episode, we have with us Heather Dyer, a return visitor to our show. She is the CEO and general manager of the San Bernadino Valley Municipal Water District and an endangered species biologist. We also have a first-time guest, Craig Miller, who is the general manager of Western Municipal Water District. Starting in 2022, Craig and Heather have been leading the charge to unite water agencies and others toward a new effort to spur investment in water infrastructure. They say that the state's network for water delivery should be upgraded and changed to meet emerging and changing needs. They bring innovative ideas and fresh perspectives to some difficult problems and they're getting some attention up and down the state. Tune in now to hear about California's water infrastructure challenges and how by working together we can move beyond crisis or survival mode into a future of abundance and water security. Follow us on Twitter: SCWC: https://twitter.com/SoCalWaterComm Charley Wilson: https://twitter.com/SCWaterman32

Calls for conservation have been a constant drumbeat in California over the years, but the past year has brought even greater pressure on residents to do more. For many, though, that's easier said than done. Busy lives, work and family commitments and budget restrictions can be a major obstacle for struggling families. And others just have no idea where to start. Enter Long Beach Utilities. For years, Long Beach Utilities has been pushing the envelope and developing innovative programs to not just tell the community to save water, but actually make it happen. The programs are part of Long Beach's long-term focus on helping build a sustainable community through collaborative partnerships and a quality workforce. And it has paid off big! Long Beach has seen great strides in conservation throughout the city, and it's only growing. Today we're going to find out what makes Long Beach Water's programs and community partnerships successful by looking at three of their innovative programs, talking to the staff members who administer them and the residents who take part. We'll focus on three programs: programs that bring water-saving devices to homes and apartments in lower-income neighborhoods; a program offering a turnkey solution for low-income property owners wanting to replace grass with waterwise plants; and a a program that gives residents everything they need to ditch the grass in their parkway for a beautiful drought-friendly landscape. Our guests are Ann-Marie Benz, Horticulture Programs Manager; Anatole Falagan, Assistant General Manager, Long Beach Utilities; and Irene Pacheco, a Long Beach resident. So welcome, and let's dive in! Follow us on Twitter: SCWC: https://twitter.com/SoCalWaterComm Charley Wilson: https://twitter.com/SCWaterman32 

The Colorado River is one of the most important rivers in the United States. It has been in the news a lot lately because of the drought and how it's affecting people and businesses that count on it for drinking water. This episode features an important panel discussion on the collaborative approach to Colorado River management being taken by California water, tribal and community leaders. Guests on this episode are Michael Cohen, Senior Associate, Pacific Institute; Adel Hagekhalil, General Manager, Metropolitan Water District of Southern California; Chris Harris, Executive Director, Colorado River Board of California;  Sandy Kerl, General Manager, San Diego County Water Authority; Henry Martinez, General Manager, Imperial Irrigation District; David Palumbo, Deputy Commissioner – Operations, U.S. Bureau of Reclamation; and Thomas Tortez, Jr., Tribal Chairman, Torres Martinez Desert Cahuilla Indians. On this special episode of What Matters Water TV + Podcast, our expert panel will talk about what is causing the crisis, how it's affecting our state and others, and most importantly, what can be done to prevent it from getting worse. So please join us as we explore this important issue. View the slides that Chris Harris uses to introduce the issues at this link: https://socalwater.org/wp-content/uploads/Chris-Harris-SCWC-Intro-Slides_DRAFT_10062022.pdf Follow us on Twitter: SCWC: https://twitter.com/SoCalWaterComm Charley Wilson: https://twitter.com/SCWaterman32

The Metropolitan Water District of Southern California was founded in 1928 under an act of the California Legislature to build and operate the Colorado River Aqueduct. Today Metropolitan  delivers water from the Colorado River and Northern California to its 26 member water agencies that serve 19 million people in Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, San Bernardino, San Diego and Ventura counties. Metropolitan has also taken significant steps over the past three decades to reduce the region's reliance on imported water – investing more than $1.5 billion in conservation and local resources. But climate change and the state's ongoing record drought are reminders that more needs to be done. The individuals heading up three of Metropolitan's big initiatives to further the One Water concept while improving the agency's culture are here with us today to discuss what they see on the horizon. Guests on this episode are: Water Resources Manager Brad Coffey, who is the lead on Metropolitan's Pure Water Initiative; Liz Crosson, who is MWD's Chief Sustainability, Resiliency and Innovation Officer, and Liji Thomas, who is MWD Chief Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Officer.

In this episode of What Matters Water TV + Podcast, we talk to experts about how Sites Reservoir in the Sacramento Valley is the future of water storage in California and why it is so crucial for our entire state, especially as we face a severe water crisis with the historic drought. There have been many discussions about Sites Reservoir and its potential to help us store more water for when it's needed most. We break down the project, how it works as part of California's water network and why it's such a vital project. Two of the show guests are from Northern California. Jerry Brown is the executive director of the Sites Project Authority, the organization tasked with building Sites Reservoir. From the beautiful Sacramento Valley, we have Frederick “Fritz” Durst who is the Board Chair of Sites Project Authority and the Reclamation District 108 board president. Representing Southern California, we have Heather Dyer who is the general manager of the San Bernardino Valley Municipal Water District and a returning guest to our show. And we're also delighted to have Adel Hagekhalil back with our show. He is the general manager of the Metropolitan Water District of Southern California, the nation's largest water wholesaler that serves 19 million people. These four bring passion, enthusiasm and ingenuity to tackle the genuine and pressing issue of climate change impacts on California's water supply.

See how unusual career paths and a willingness to take risks led these four women to lead California water agencies and boards.  Our sixth episode features a roundtable discussion with four women who have made crucial contributions to achieving sustainability. They are leaders, collaborative peers and experts who contribute with leadership skills and as mentors for other women. Their reflections on their careers and their advice for other women pursuing a future in water are inspiring.  Heather Dyer is the general manager of the San Bernardino Valley Municipal Water District. Sandra Kerl is the general manager of the San Diego County Water Authority. Joone Lopez is the general manager of Moulton Niguel Water District. Kris Murray is chair of the Santa Ana Regional Water Quality Control Board and president of KLM Strategies. Together they bring decades of experience to their roles ensuring safe and clean water for people in Southern California.  

Learn about two women who have done amazing things for the environment and water issues in our state. They've broken barriers and achieved tremendous results – and their work will undoubtedly have an effect on Californians for generations to come. Martha Guzman was appointed by President Biden as the first Latina to lead the Environmental Protection Agency for the Pacific Southwest. She is longtime Central Valley advocate from Sacramento who began her career working for the United Farm Workers and California Rural Legal Assistance Foundation. She has served as a Commissioner on the California Public Utilities Commission. While she's done many things to deliver access to clean, safe water for underserved communities, she told us she is most proud of the work she was able to do in helping to pass California's Driver's License Act for the Undocumented, as well as making sure that electricity kept flowing to people despite the economic fallout of the COVID-19 pandemic.  She is an experienced leader who values economic justice and strives to give voice to those who need it. Felicia Marcus jokes that she has had an accidental career, but we can see that her accomplishments are serious and consequential. Originally an East Asian Studies major with the intent of changing the international world, she fell into environmental and domestic policy instead. Early in her career, she learned about how sludge was still being dumped into Santa Monica Bay and decided to take action. This led her on a journey to become an advocate, attorney and administrator championing conservation of California's natural resources. She even earned the moniker of California's water czar during the state's last severe drought as chair of the state's water board. Today, she's a fellow at Stanford's Water in the West Program and a consultant and member of the Water Policy Group. Get ready to learn more about these two smart, powerful women as well as their impact on California's future. We hope you enjoy it!

Hear from two California legislators who are fighting climate change impacts by pushing for laws and policies about water and energy that will affect Californians for years to come. We will discuss how they hope to empower everyday people like us to make significant changes in how we use natural resources while protecting the environment. There's a lot of work to be done, and Senator Henry Stern and Assemblymember Eduardo Garcia are working to make sure we don't squander our efforts to make a real and lasting difference for California water. Senator Henry Stern is a surfer, a seventh generation Californian, a new dad and the representative of the 27th district encompassing parts of Los Angeles and Ventura counties. Prior to being elected in November 2016, he was an environmental attorney and senior advisor to his predecessor, Fran Pavley. As someone who has experienced the devastation of wildfires firsthand, Stern has worked to boost the state's wildfire preparedness and pushed hard to address what he calls the state's climate change emergency. Assemblymember Eduardo Garcia is a son of Coachella Valley, a proud father, and a passionate advocate for addressing the environmental issues of the Salton Sea. He represents the 56th district covering eastern Riverside County and Imperial County. He is acknowledged as the driving force behind California's historic climate change package--a groundbreaking legislative effort that will help steer our state into a more sustainable future. So get ready to be inspired and informed as we talk about how these two legislators got here, what they're fighting for, and why Californians should care.

Join the panel discussion on water. Ellen Hanak, Newsha Ajami and Faith Kearns discuss water issues across California.   In this episode of the What Matters Water TV + Podcast we talk with three women who are working for water supply resiliency for our state. We chat about what it's like to be an advocate for water equity in California, efforts to improve affordable and reliable drinking water for all, and how to use storytelling as a tool for change!   This monthly series offers information on California's drought as well as interviews with interesting guests who are working hard every day trying to solve our state's complex problems related to agriculture, energy production, pollution, wildlife preservation and more! We cover topics that matter using humor without being offensive or divisive. "It's like listening in on your smartest friends talking about things that really matter…and laughing" - Lynn Lipinski (SCWC)   Ellen Hanak is vice president and director of the PPIC Water Policy Center and a senior fellow at the Public Policy Institute of California, where she holds the Ellen Hanak Chair in Water Policy. Under her leadership, the center has become a critical source of information and guidance for natural resource management in California. She has authored dozens of reports, articles, and books on water policy, including Managing California's Water.   Newsha K. Ajami, Ph.D., is the director of Urban Water Policy with Stanford University's Water in the West and NSF-ReNUWIt initiatives. She is a hydrologist specializing in sustainable water resource management, water policy, the water-energy-food nexus, and advancing uncertainty assessment techniques impacting hydrological predictions. Her research throughout the years has been interdisciplinary and impact driven, focusing on the improvement of the science-policy-stakeholder interface by incorporating social and economic measures and relevant and effective communication.   Faith Kearns is a scientist and science communication practitioner. She writes about water, wildfire, and climate change. Her work has been published at New Republic, On Being, Bay Nature, and more. Her book Getting to the Heart of Science Communication is now available wherever books are sold.

Hear how the State of California is coping with the current severe drought and impacts of climate change from two of its top leaders: E. Joaquin Esquivel, chair of the State Water Resources Control Board and Karla Nemeth, director of the California Department of Water Resources. This candid and informative conversation also includes discussion of personal leadership style, how big data is helping improve California water quality, and more. Esquivel has regulatory responsibility for protecting the water quality, balancing competing demands on the state's water resources, and attempts to resolve decades-long water disputes. Nemeth is responsible for managing and protecting California's water resources, working with other agencies in order to benefit the state's people and to protect, restore and enhance the natural and human environs. Esquivel and Nemeth discuss drought resiliency, reconciling California's water past with an inclusive future, and share personal stories about how they got their start in water policy and why they are passionate about it.

Adel Hagekhalil is the general manager of Metropolitan Water District of Southern California, the largest water wholesaler in the United States serving more than 19 million Californians. Tune in to hear how he is thinking differently about water, the lessons he learned when things went wrong, and for fun, how his cooking style and leadership style match up.  A national water and infrastructure leader, Hagekhalil joined MWD as its 14th general manager in July 2021. It is an important time as the water agency confronts challenges to water supply reliability brought by climate change impacts and drought conditions.