Meaningful Conversations with Annyse

What if every water project started with a story?


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In this episode, we sit down with Natasha Wiseman, founder of Wise on Water and the not-for-profit platform Make Water Famous. Natasha is a passionate advocate for the power of communication in the water sector—believing that if we want to build real change, we must start by telling the truth about water.

From climate disruption to pollution and public trust, Natasha shares how storytelling can bridge the gap between technical expertise and public understanding. We talk about the UK’s growing water crisis, the role of community engagement, and why communications must be built into every water project from the start—not as an afterthought.

Natasha also pulls the “Truth” card during our conversation (yes, we bring a little creative energy into the mix) and reflects on what “truth” means when it comes to water, media, and the stories we share.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

  • Why storytelling matters more than ever in the water sector
  • The public’s growing curiosity—and concern—about water
  • Why communication is a strategic tool, not just a nice-to-have
  • What happens when people connect to their local waterways
  • How to bring communications into the room before the project starts
  • Why investment alone isn’t enough—we need narrative clarity too
  • Natasha’s dream for a future where communications has a seat at every table

Links & Resources:

·        Make Water Famous

·        Wise on Water

·        Wise on Water Podcast 

·        UK Water Industry BBC Article 

·        Why Namibia’s 1960s sewage purifying plant is a beacon of hope for the US water crisis

·        Singapore’s NEWater Journey 

·        Summary of California's Water Reuse Guideline or Regulation for Industry 

·        The Water Tower - a non-profit innovation hub based in Gwinnett County, Georgia.  The Water Tower bring together industry leaders, utilities, private companies, NGOs, and academic institutions to tackle the world's most pressing water challenges. 

·        Erica Gies – Slow Water — by Erica Gies

·        Water Experiment – Dr. Masaru Emoto 

·        Towumba water crisis

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Meaningful Conversations with AnnyseBy Annyse Balkwill