Episodes

  • #28 - The Future of Water in Food Systems with Allison Penner
    Apr 27 2026

    In this episode, Alison Penner from Reimagine Agriculture joins Els and dives into the hidden water crisis in our food system. With agriculture consuming 70% of global freshwater, Alison explores practical strategies like precision irrigation and reducing factory farming to cut water use.

    Discover how policy changes and consumer awareness can transform our approach to water in agriculture. Learn about successful international efforts to reduce food waste and how these can be applied to save water and resources in Canada. Alison shares insights on empowering local farms and shifting subsidies to promote sustainable practices.

    Join us for actionable insights and be part of the change. For more on water sustainability, check out Water Talks on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts and wherever you find your podcasts.

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    1 hr
  • #27 - Protecting North America's Lakes and Waterways with Mark Mattson
    Mar 27 2026

    Most cities have yet to realize that swimmable water is the ultimate key to healthier lakes, stronger communities, and a thriving environment. Dive into this eye-opening episode where Mark Mattson, environmental lawyer and founder of Swim Drink Fish Canada, reveals how swimmable waters are transforming city landscapes and health policies across North America.

    You’ll discover how early experiences on Lake Ontario shaped Mark’s lifelong mission for cleaner waters and why swimming is more than just recreation—it's an essential rallying cry for water protection. We break down the critical role of citizen-led monitoring, the power of real-time data, and how community science is revolutionizing water safety and accountability. Mark shares stories empowering ordinary people to lead the charge for change.

    We explore the startling persistence of sewage overflows and pollution, and how legal action, combined with community engagement, has already driven billions into restoration projects. Plus, learn why protecting water ecosystems requires much more than regulations—it's about building meaningful relationships with Indigenous nations, fostering cross-border cooperation, and understanding our water’s cultural and spiritual significance. From the Great Lakes to city streets, Mark underscores how water is deeply interconnected with our economy, health, and future resilience.

    Mark also has a podcast on Soundcloud which you can find here.

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    57 mins
  • #26 - Sustainable Water Systems with Dr. Steven Liss
    Jan 30 2026

    Join us for another Water Talks episode, the first one of 2026! Host Els Vanbeckevoort is joined by Dr. Steven N Liss, Toronto Metropolitan University's Vice President, Head of Research and Innovation and Professor of Chemistry and Biology.

    In this episode, we explore the future of water management with a focus on sustainable systems. Dr. Liss shares insights into innovative disinfection strategies and the role of data-driven approaches in enhancing water quality and reducing environmental impact. We also discuss the importance of digital twins in designing smarter water systems and how distributed systems can improve resilience in agriculture and small communities.

    Perfect for anyone interested in advancing water safety and sustainability, this episode provides valuable knowledge for policymakers, engineers, and water industry professionals. Don't miss the opportunity to learn more about SanEcoTec and their pioneering Water Health Index, a tool that empowers communities to achieve optimal water quality and safety. Discover how these innovations are leading the way in sustainable water solutions.


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    53 mins
  • #25 - Managing Water Parks with Samantha Hathorn
    Dec 29 2025

    Join us for an exciting end-of-year episode of the Water Talks podcast! Host Els Vanbeckevoort welcomes Samantha Hathorn, Aquatics Maintenance Manager at Great Wolf Lodge Niagara Falls.

    Discover the behind-the-scenes magic of one of Canada's largest indoor water parks, as Samantha shares insights into maintaining top-notch water quality and guest experiences. From thrilling water coasters to innovative green initiatives, this episode is packed with fascinating stories and expert advice. Don't miss out on this deep dive into the world of aquatics management!

    🔗 Visit Great Wolf Lodge Niagara Falls: greatwolf.com/niagara 📺 Subscribe for more episodes: [WaterTalks - YouTube] 📧 Questions or topic suggestions? Email us at mywatertalks@SanEcoTec.com

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    39 mins
  • #8 - Why Water Metrics Matter in the Greenhouse with Chris Wood
    Mar 8 2024

    Join us for latest episode on the topic of water metrics in the greenhouse and pro-active water management making a substantial difference.

    Special Guest: Chris Wood, Head Grower at Proplant Propagation Services Ltd.

    Hosted by Els Vanbeckevoort and Scott Bowron, tune in as we discuss:

    • The complexity of growing food
    • Where water systems fit into the greenhouse systems
    • The importance of water quality in the growing process

    Follow us on Spotify: https://lnkd.in/dr4wVzgC

    Apple Podcast: https://lnkd.in/dwaMtt4g

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/1777704

    YouTube: WaterTalks - YouTube

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    49 mins
  • #6 - The What, How and Why of Pool Deck Cleaning with Ludo Feyen
    Jan 12 2024

    Hosted by Els Vanbeckevoort and Scott Bowron, this episode explores the best practices in Pool cleaning, in and around the pool. In this episode Els Vanbeckevoort visits Labo Derva to meet with a familiar face, Ludo Feyen, a very respected leader on the forefront of Water Innovation.

    Tune in as we discuss:

    • Contamination on pool decks
    • Microbiological methods for testing pool floors
    • Why it's important to clean pool floors and decks

    Your questions matter! If you have any questions you would like answered in future podcasts send them to us on LinkedIn, Youtube or on our website: https://sanecotec.com/

    Learn more at https://lnkd.in/e8zXf3HF

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    39 mins
  • #4 - Waves of Wisdom with Ludo Feyen, Gerben Op Den Buijs and Christel Broux
    Nov 10 2023

    We're back for our monthly episode of the Water Talks Podcast, the place where water health receives a fresh perspective. In this episode Els and Scott sit down with THREE special guests. Ludo Feyen, the CEO of Labo Derva, Gerben Op Den Buijs, Managing Director at SEM and Christel Broux, Director of Technical Sales at SEM.

    In this episode:

    • Small steps, big impact
    • It takes a team
    • Better Pools Workshop 2023 debrief

    Your questions matter! If you have any questions you would like answered in future podcasts send them to us on LinkedIn, Youtube or on our website: https://sanecotec.com/

    Learn more at https://lnkd.in/e8zXf3HF

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    44 mins
  • #5 - A Pool Supervisors Vantage Point for Better Pools with Darin Kubicki
    Dec 8 2023

    Hosted by Els Vanbeckevoort and Scott Bowron, this episode uncovers Darin's fascinating journey and expertise in pool management. From the recent Better Pools Conference to practical insights on optimizing pool operations, Darin shares it all!

    Tune in as we discuss:

    • The challenges and triumphs in pool operations
    • Insights gained and concrete steps taken for improved results
    • Key takeaways from the Better Pools Conference

    Your questions matter! If you have any questions you would like answered in future podcasts send them to us on LinkedIn, Youtube or on our website: https://sanecotec.com/

    Learn more at https://lnkd.in/e8zXf3HF

    Wishing you all the best for the season!

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    59 mins