In this episode of the Make Water Work podcast, hosts Isaac Pellerin and Megan Glover engage in a thought-provoking conversation with Debra Coy, a pioneer in water investment. They discuss the evolution of the water sector, the importance of sustainability, and the need for diversity in leadership. Debra shares her insights on attracting innovation to the water industry and the role of technology in addressing water supply challenges. The conversation emphasizes the necessity of collaboration between water utilities and tech companies, as well as the importance of creating inclusive environments to foster a diverse workforce. The episode concludes with a call to action for leaders in the water sector to make a difference and embrace change.

Takeaways

• Water is a public good but needs private investment.

• The water sector has evolved significantly over the past 30 years.

• Understanding supply and demand is crucial for water businesses.

• Sustainability means long-term operational viability.

• Innovation is essential for the future of water.

• Collaboration with tech companies can enhance water services.

• Diversity in leadership leads to better decision-making.

• Creating inclusive environments attracts a younger workforce.

• Investors must understand the water sector's unique dynamics.

• The water industry must tell its story better.

Summary

In this episode of the Make Water Work podcast, Isaac Pellerin and Megan Glover engage with Deirdre Finn, a prominent advocate for water infrastructure funding. They discuss the water crisis in Jackson, Mississippi, the importance of State Revolving Funds (SRFs), and the challenges faced by utilities in accessing these funds. The conversation highlights the critical role of water in public health and the economy, the complexities of federal funding, and the need for continuous education on water issues. Deirdre shares her insights on the future of water funding and the importance of prioritizing infrastructure investments to ensure safe drinking water for all communities.

Takeaways

Summary

In this episode of the Make Water Work podcast, hosts Isaac Pellerin and Megan Glover engage with Chelsea Boozer, a leader in water communications. They discuss the critical importance of effective communication in the water industry, the challenges of building public trust, and the need for professional development in communication strategies. Chelsea shares her journey from journalism to water utilities and highlights the role of Rogue Water and Catalyst in bridging the communication gap within the industry. The conversation also addresses the challenges women face in the water sector and the importance of creating an inclusive environment for future leaders.

Takeaways

• There is strategy and skill behind effective communication.

• Rogue Water aims to equip, inspire, and empower the water sector.

• Public service is a common thread in Chelsea's career.

• Communication is often viewed as a soft skill, but it's a power tool.

• Understanding your audience is crucial for effective messaging.

• The water industry struggles with jargon that alienates the public.

• Building trust requires addressing uncomfortable truths.

•Women in the water industry face unique challenges that need to be addressed.

• Catalyst provides a platform for training and community building.

• Effective communication can lead to better community engagement.

Summary

In this episode of the Make Water Work podcast, hosts Isaac Pellerin and Megan Glover engage with Scott Hamm, a dedicated water utility operator and trainer. The conversation explores Scott's journey in the water industry, emphasizing the importance of training, public service, and proactive management in water utilities. They discuss the challenges faced by small utilities, the need for effective communication, and the potential role of AI in enhancing water management practices. Scott's passion for education and his commitment to serving the community shine through as he shares insights on navigating regulations and fostering a culture of innovation in the water sector.

Takeaways

In this episode of Make Water Work, we sit down with one of the most respected voices in the water sector—Alan Roberson, longtime industry leader, former Executive Director of the Association of State Drinking Water Administrators (ASDWA), and 2025 Fuller Award recipient.

Alan shares how his journey from consulting engineer to policy leader gave him a front-row seat to the evolution of drinking water regulation, technology, and workforce development. From navigating the challenges of higher rates and affordability, to helping systems go from paper to digital, to building the next generation of water leaders—Alan brings wisdom and humility to every topic.

We explore:

Alan “The Water Man” Roberson has spent decades shaping policy, mentoring leaders, and advocating for resilient water systems. His perspective is a must-listen for anyone who cares about the future of drinking water.

Alan Roberson is the former Executive Director of the Association of State Drinking Water Administrators (ASDWA). He has over 34 years of experience in the development of drinking water policy and federal and state drinking water regulations. 

Prior to starting at ASDWA in 2017, he worked in AWWA’s Washington, DC, office for 25 years. During his time at AWWA, he authored or co-authored over 20 peer-reviewed papers, authored or co-authored a handful of book chapters, written numerous columns and Feature Articles for Journal AWWA, and made numerous presentations on a wide range of water quality and regulatory issues across the country. 

He has been on Fairfax Water’s Board of Directors since 2009 and currently serves as Treasurer and Chair of the Water Quality & Supply Committee. He also is an adjunct instructor at Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, teaching a drinking water policy class annually at the Summer Institute. 

He has a Bachelor’s in Civil Engineering from Georgia Tech and a Master of Science in Civil Engineering from Virginia Tech. He is a registered Professional Engineer in Virginia. He received the Fuller Award from the Virginia Section of AWWA in 2025.

In this episode of the Make Water Work podcast, cohosts Megan Glover and Isaac Pellerin are joined by Kelley Dearing Smith to discuss the critical issues facing the water sector, particularly in communication and branding. Kelley shares her journey from journalism to water communications, highlighting the importance of building trust with the community through effective messaging and engagement. They explore the challenges of marketing in the water industry, the significance of community involvement, and practical advice for water systems to enhance their communication strategies.

Kelley Dearing Smith is Louisville Water Company’s Vice President of Communications and Marketing and Past Chair of American Water Works Association’s Public Affairs Council. In her 25-year career at Louisville Water, Kelley has developed strategic partnerships and communication efforts that build Louisville Water’s brand and highlight the value of water.

Kelley is a member of Louisville Water’s Executive Leadership Team and directs all communications and content marketing, brand development, education and outreach, public affairs, and economic development. Kelley has authored a book highlighting Louisville Water’s history and oversaw the development of the “WaterWorks Museum” at the company’s 1860 original pumping station. Kelley frequently speaks to utilities and businesses on best practices for branding and communication. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Broadcast Journalism from Eastern Kentucky University and prior to Louisville Water, Kelley worked in television news.

In this episode of the Make Water Work podcast, host Isaac Pellerin engages with Megan Glover and Casey Myers to discuss the journey of 120Water, its mission to serve customers in the water industry, and the importance of listening to customer needs. They explore the challenges and opportunities in the water sector, the significance of building trust with clients, and the future direction of the company as it transitions leadership. The conversation highlights the commitment to innovation, customer service, and the vision for making water work for everyone.

In this kickoff episode, cohosts Megan Glover and Isaac Pellerin introduce Make Water Work — a weekly podcast celebrating the people shaping the future of water. From utility professionals serving their communities, to entrepreneurs driving innovation, to leaders inspiring the next generation, each episode will highlight the stories behind the people who truly Make Water Work.

Join us as we dive into conversations that are thoughtful, upbeat, and rooted in the belief that collaboration and creativity can make water work for everyone.