WiseOnWater podcast

In this episode, Natasha Wiseman is joined by Lawrence Gosden, CEO of Southern Water , to discuss the monumental challenges and technological advancements defining the UK water sector. Lawrence outlines the company's strategy for tackling the "triple threat" of storm overflows, nutrient management, and water scarcity. The conversation explores the engineering behind pioneering water...

By 2055, England alone faces a staggering 5 billion litres a day shortfall in public water supplies. In this episode, Natasha Wiseman dives into the frontline of this environmental challenge. From the driest regions of the country to the strategic planning rooms of water utilities, we explore how the UK is preparing for a future where water can no longer be taken for granted.  Guest 1: Daniel John...

In this episode of the WiseOnWater podcast, host Natasha Wiseman explores the real-world challenges and opportunities in asset management and capital delivery during a transformational period for the UK water sector.   Dive into the complexities of strategic asset management, from the "unsexy" but vital maintenance of Victorian pipes to the rollout of massive strategic resource options l...

In this episode, host Natasha Wiseman dives into the power of partnership. As the UK water sector faces increasing pressure from climate change and regulatory scrutiny, the "lone wolf" approach to water management is no longer viable.  Explore the evolving landscape of sustainable water management, the role of green infrastructure, and community engagement in safeguarding our rivers and...

In this episode of the WiseOnWater podcast, ‘Innovation in action,’ host Natasha Wiseman and guests from Ofwat, The Scotland Hydro Nation Chair programme, and Northumbrian Water and explore the massive shift in gear required to deliver truly innovative water resilience and exemplary environmental stewardship. From the critical role of regulation to the world-first research initiatives in Scotland,...

In the third episode of season 2, host Natasha Wiseman is joined by guests from EU Skills , United Unities and Xylem UK & Ireland to discuss the "monumental" workforce challenge in the water sector, including skills gaps, recruitment strategies, diversity, and the next generation of talent.  Guest 1 : Paul Cox, Group Chief Executive of Energy & Utility Skills (EU Skills)  About E...

In this final episode of 2025, we dive into the crucial issues shaping the future of the UK water sector: regulation, resilience, and policy change. We’re joined by two high-profile and influential figures who are driving this vital conversation forward. Guest 1: Lee Pitcher MP Labour MP for Doncaster East and the Isle of Axum, and Chair of the All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) on Water. Key di...

This episode of  WiseOnWater, Conversations in Flow , marks the launch of Season Two and focuses on the genuine turning point for the UK water sector.   Host Natasha Wiseman explores the challenges and opportunities presented by the recent Independent Water Commission (IWC) report and the commencement of AMP8.   The discussion centres on moving the sector from reactive crisis management to proacti...

In the final episode of Season 1, ‘The future of UK water’ host Natasha Wiseman speaks with two pivotal figures in the UK's water sector: Mark Lloyd, CEO of The Rivers Trust, and Tania Flasck, Director of Water Operations at Southern Water. The conversation explores the unprecedented challenges and opportunities facing the UK's rivers and water systems.   Mark provides a grassroots perspec...

In this episode of the WiseOnWater podcast, host Natasha Wiseman engages with experts from two major water companies to discuss the critical intersection of energy and water.  The conversation with Pete Vale, carbon and circular economy architect at Severn Trent Water and Xiang Cheng, head of energy and carbon at Thames Water, delves into the challenges and innovations surrounding carbon reduction...

This episode dives into the crucial and often challenging topic of water industry regulation in the UK. As one of the most heavily regulated sectors, water faces a complex web of oversight designed to balance consumer protection, environmental sustainability, and vital infrastructure investment. Natasha examines the roles of key regulatory bodies, including economic regulators such as Ofwat and th...

In episode 9 of the WiseOnWater podcast, host Natasha Wiseman discusses the critical importance of collaboration in the water sector with guests Mike Rose, Chief Executive of UKWIR, and Jo Harrison, strategic planning and sustainability director at United Utilities.   They explore how effective partnerships can drive innovation, tackle climate change, and improve water management practices. The co...

This episode of the WiseOnWater podcast delves into the critical themes of customer empowerment and the dynamic changes shaping the water industry.   First, host Natasha Wiseman engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Mumin Islam about the need for stronger relationships between water companies and their diverse customers. They explore the challenges of building trust, the transformative...

In this episode, host Natasha Wiseman delves into the heart of operational efficiency within the UK water sector. Featuring insights from Richard Price, Managing Director of Wastewater Services at South West Water , and Duncan Wildgoose, Head of Wastewater at Xylem UK and Ireland , this episode explores the critical challenges and groundbreaking solutions shaping the industry's future. From ambiti...

This special edition WiseOnWater ‘mini pod’ delivers key insights from the World Water Tech Innovation Summit, in a brand-new bitesize format.   In this ten-minute podcast, attendees worldwide discuss pressing water challenges and innovative solutions.   Kieran Brocklebank of United Utilities highlights the need to blend technology, especially AI, with traditional infrastructure to combat climate...

In episode six of WiseOnWater podcast, host Natasha Wiseman delves into the innovation landscape within the UK water sector, and its role in driving transformation. First, Marc Hannis from Ofwat discusses the innovation fund's purpose, its impact on collaboration among water companies, the importance of commercial aspects in fostering innovation, and the significance of the supply chain and workfo...

In this episode of the Wise on Water podcast, host Natasha Wiseman engages with Carolyn Cadman, Director of Natural Resources at Southwest Water, to discuss the pressing challenges and innovative solutions in the UK water sector.   The conversation covers the responsibilities of water companies, the importance of nature-based solutions, and the need for increased investment in sustainable practice...

In this episode, Natasha discusses water management with Pavan Parshad, head of data science and modelling at Severn Trent. They delve into how advanced analytics, AI, and machine learning are revolutionising water quality, operational efficiency, and failure prevention. Smart metering and innovative projects like wastewater digital twins are also highlighted.   Next, Natasha interviews Ian Thomps...

In this episode, we delve into the complex issues facing the UK water sector.   Our first guest, Colin Skellett , a leading figure in the UK water sector, joins us to discuss the pressing challenges and priorities facing the industry and stresses the critical need for investment, particularly in the face of climate change and aging infrastructure.   In our second interview, we spoke with Karma Lov...

Join us as we discuss the skills gap in the water industry and delve into the challenges faced by the UK water sector in recruitment and retention.  The first guest, Peter Simpson, chief executive of Anglian Water shares his perspective on the opportunities and challenges presented by the increased investment in the sector.  Our second guest, Dr. Sarah McMath, CEO of MOSL , shares her personal jou...

This episode delves into the UK water sector's current state and future prospects.   Our first guest, Helen Wakeham , provides valuable insights into the challenges and goals to be achieved. In the second part of the episode, Margaret Read discusses the infrastructure challenges and investment needs of the UK water sector.  Guest 1: Helen Wakeham, Director at the Environment Agency  Key Discus...