Tap'd In
Immerse yourself in the world of water with Tap'd In.Join hosts Jordan and Lana every Wednesday as they explore the fascinating world of water. From the economics of water pricing to the latest innovations in water tech, Tap'd In dives deep into critical topics like bottled water, tap water, scarcity, and management. Brought to you by the water tech company Tap, this podcast sheds light on the challenges and solutions shaping the future of this essential resource. Whether you’re an industry professional, a sustainability advocate, or just curious about the world of water, Tap'd In has something for yo
#35: Parked in contamination – Mobile homes and the water crisis
In this episode of Tap’d In, hosts Jordan and Lana uncover a hidden drinking water crisis affecting millions of Americans living in mobile home parks. Drawing from an AP News investigation, they reveal how nearly 70% of parks with their own water systems have violated safe drinking water regulations – often at rates worse than cities. Some parks aren’t regulated by the EPA at all, leaving dangerous contaminants like arsenic undetected. Even when outside water sources are safe, aging pipes within parks can taint it before it reaches taps. Jordan and La...
#34: Thirsty for AI – How data centers are draining communities
In this episode of Tap’d In, hosts Jordan and Lana explore the hidden water cost of artificial intelligence. Inspired by a recent New York Times report, they spotlight Newton County, Georgia, where Meta’s data center construction has led to depleted residential wells, rising municipal rates, and looming water shortages. As AI advances, so does its thirst for cooling—and communities are paying the price. Jordan and Lana unpack the tension between tech-driven economic growth and environmental sustainability, asking: How do we balance innovation with basic water rights?
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#33: Unprepared and underwater – Why U.S. infrastructure can’t handle the next flood
In this episode of Tap’d In, hosts Jordan and Lana take on one of the most pressing—and overlooked—climate risks: flooding. Based on insights from Governing and the U.S. Water Alliance, they explore why floods remain the most common and costly natural disaster in the U.S., yet our aging water infrastructure is nowhere near ready. From outdated stormwater systems to underfunded resilience projects, Jordan and Lana discuss the high cost of inaction—and the economic, political, and human reasons we need to invest in smarter, stronger water sy...
#32: Your brain on plastics – Tiny particles, big consequences
In this episode of Tap’d In, hosts Jordan and Lana dive into the unsettling connection between microplastic pollution and human health, inspired by a recent article from The Brockovich Report. A new study shows a troubling correlation: people living near plastic-contaminated coasts are experiencing higher rates of health issues, including possible neuroinflammation. These invisible particles—smaller than a sesame seed—are entering our bodies through air, food, and water. Jordan and Lana explore the surprising sources (like tires and waste mismanagement) and what both governments and individuals can do to tur...
#31: L.A.’s water glow-up – From excess to efficiency
Episode Description:Â
In this episode of Tap’d In, hosts Jordan and Lana explore how Los Angeles—long seen as a symbol of unsustainable sprawl—has quietly become one of the most water-conscious cities in the U.S. Drawing from a recent New York Times article, they trace how decades of drought transformed L.A.’s approach to water, shifting from massive diversion projects to smarter, more sustainable strategies. From drought-tolerant landscaping incentives to public awareness campaigns and improved plumbing, the city has managed to use less wate...
#30: Farming the fog – Growing crops in the driest place on Earth
Episode Description:Â
In this episode of Tap’d In, hosts Jordan and Lana travel (virtually) to Chile’s Atacama Desert—the driest place on Earth—to explore how farmers are growing lettuce, lemons, and more without a single drop of rain. Using massive mesh fog catchers, communities are harvesting water straight from the air, collecting over 1,000 liters per day to power hydroponic farms. Jordan and Lana discuss this incredible blend of tradition, innovation, and resilience, and how it could reshape agriculture in water-scarce regions around the world.
#29: Plastic Free July – The Garbage Patch isn’t what you think
In light of Plastic Free July, this episode of Tap’d In challenges what we think we know about plastic pollution. Hosts Jordan and Lana dive into the real story behind the Great Pacific Garbage Patch—revealing it’s not a swirling island of consumer waste, but largely fishing industry debris. Drawing from a compelling video investigation, they explore how mismanaged waste, not just littering, fuels ocean pollution, and how underestimated sources like tires and paint contribute to the growing microplastic problem. With plastic production still on the rise and recycling falling short, Jordan and La...
#28: Shattering the glass bottle myth – The surprising microplastic truth
In this episode of Tap’d In, hosts Jordan and Lana unpack a new French study that’s turning assumptions upside down: drinks bottled in glass may actually contain more microplastics than those in plastic or metal containers. Published in the Journal of Food Composition and Analysis and covered widely in the press, the research points to an unexpected culprit—paint from bottle caps shedding microplastic particles into beverages. Jordan and Lana explore what this means for consumer choices, why wine seems to fare better, and how a...
#27: Fluoride around the world – What other countries do differently
In this episode of Tap’d In, hosts Jordan and Lana take a global look at water fluoridation, inspired by a recent BBC Future article. While fluoridation remains common in the U.S. for its dental health benefits, many countries have opted out—choosing alternatives like fluoridated salt or milk, or relying on naturally occurring fluoride levels. The episode explores the health concerns, cultural differences, and public resistance that shape each nation’s approach. Jordan and Lana discuss why some governments are pulling back, and what this international perspective means for fu...
#26: The world of fine water – The rise of water sommeliers
In this episode of Tap’d In, hosts Jordan and Lana explore the growing “fine water” movement, where natural bottled waters are being appreciated like vintage wines. Inspired by a recent New York Times feature, they dive into a world of tastings, mineral profiles, water cellars, and sommeliers who celebrate water for its terroir and complexity. Jordan and Lana discuss how this trend—driven by wellness enthusiasts and younger consumers—is transforming water from a basic necessity into a curated experience, and what it means for the future of hydration and sustai...
#25: PFAS in your pint – What’s brewing in our water?
In this episode of Tap’d In, hosts Jordan and Lana crack open a startling new study: nearly every beer tested in the U.S. contains PFAS—those stubborn “forever chemicals” linked to serious health risks. Based on recent reporting from The Guardian, the episode explores how local water quality directly affects what ends up in your drink, with contamination traced back to the water used in brewing. Jordan and Lana discuss what this means for consumers, brewers, and policymakers—and whether advanced filtration could be the key to keeping both our b...
#24: LifeStraw – Innovation for clean water, anywhere
In this episode of Tap’d In, hosts Jordan and Lana spotlight one of the most game-changing tools in global water access: LifeStraw. Originally developed in 1999 to combat Guinea worm disease, LifeStraw has evolved into a trusted name in water filtration, offering solutions that require no electricity and remove contaminants from even the dirtiest sources. Jordan and Lana explore the technology behind the product, its expanding line of filters—from straws to pitchers—and its impact on households, adventurers, and disaster relief efforts. They also highlight LifeStraw’s social mission, including the Safe Water Fund and...
#23: From farm to faucet - How manure creates toxic water
In this episode of Tap’d In, hosts Jordan and Lana tackle a lesser-known but widespread water crisis: the formation of cancer-linked disinfection byproducts (DBPs) in drinking water. Based on reporting from The Brockovich Report, the episode reveals how manure runoff from industrial livestock farms is a major contributor, affecting over 122 million Americans. When organic waste like manure reacts with disinfectants such as chlorine, it creates harmful chemical byproducts. Jordan and Lana unpack the overlap between high DBP levels and livestock-heavy states, and explore solutions—from smarter manure management to more...
#22: America is sinking - 28 cities facing subsurface collapse
In this episode of Tap’d In, hosts Jordan and Lana explore a startling new study revealing that at least 28 major U.S. cities are slowly sinking. Published in Nature Cities by Virginia Tech researchers, the study links land subsidence to excessive groundwater extraction—an invisible crisis with massive implications. Jordan and Lana break down how this silent shift threatens buildings, roads, and entire communities, and how climate change and extreme weather could accelerate the damage. As the ground literally gives way beneath us, they ask: what can be done to p...
#21: Mining vs. water – The hidden cost of critical minerals
In this episode of Tap’d In, hosts Jordan and Lana dig into the growing tension between domestic mineral mining and clean water protection, inspired by a recent piece in The Brockovich Report. A new executive order aims to fast-track mining for critical minerals needed in modern tech and energy—but at what cost? The episode explores how past and present mining operations have contaminated U.S. water supplies and questions whether current regulations are strong enough to prevent further harm. Jordan and Lana discuss the need for a balanced appr...
#20: Water is the next Bitcoin
In this episode of Tap’d In, hosts Jordan and Lana explore the growing trend of land grabs driven by access to water rights. As climate change intensifies scarcity, water is being dubbed the next "blue gold"—a commodity as coveted as Bitcoin. Wealthy investors are quietly acquiring land with strategic water access, raising urgent questions about equity, privatization, and the future of a resource essential to life. Jordan and Lana break down the implications of turning water into a financial asset and ask: will water access soon depend on your bank account?
#19: Mexico City's water crisis - A megacity's thirst
In this episode of Tap’d In, hosts Jordan and Lana explore the unfolding water crisis in Mexico City, one of the world’s largest and most water-stressed metropolises. They unpack the historical and environmental challenges—from the drained Lake Texcoco and sinking city foundations to heat waves and the endangered Xochimilco ecosystem. They discuss how overuse, climate change, failing infrastructure, and inequality converge to fuel this crisis—and explore potential solutions and the resilience of communities facing an uncertain future.
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https://mexicocitywater.longlead.com/
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#18: Plastics in water - A modern Roman warning
In this episode of Tap’d In, hosts Jordan and Lana explore a thought-provoking comparison: are today’s plastic water systems the modern equivalent of the Roman Empire’s lead pipes? Drawing from a recent Echo River Capital article, the episode dives into growing evidence that plastic pipes leach microplastics, nanoplastics, and PFAS into drinking water—with potential consequences for brain health, plant life, and food security. Jordan and Lana break down the science, discuss practical steps to reduce exposure, and spotlight innovative companies tackling the plastic crisis. Is our water infrastructure poisoning us slowly—a...
#17: Utah bans fluoride in public drinking water
In this episode of Tap’d In, hosts Jordan and Lana unpack Utah’s controversial decision to become the first state to ban fluoride from public drinking water. Signed into law by Governor Spencer Cox, the move has ignited a heated debate across the country. Public health experts and dental organizations warn that the ban could increase cavities, especially among low-income communities, while supporters argue it’s about personal freedom and cutting costs. Jordan and Lana explore both sides of the issue, the science behind fluoride, and what this decision means for the future of pub...
#16: The other "forever chemical" lurking in your water
In this episode of Tap’d In, hosts Jordan and Lana expose the dangers of 1,4-dioxane, a little-known but widespread contaminant in U.S. drinking water. Dubbed another "forever chemical," this likely carcinogen lingers in the environment due to industrial waste and its presence in household products—yet it remains largely unregulated at the federal level. The episode explores how some states are taking action while others lag behind, leaving consumers vulnerable.Â
Article:Â
https://www.thebrockovichreport.com/p/the-other-forever-chemical-you-need
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#15: California water rates set to soar - Double-digit increases ahead
In this episode of Tap’d In, hosts Jordan and Lana break down the looming water rate hikes affecting millions of Californians, particularly in San Diego County. According to an SFGate report, water costs could surge by up to 70% by the end of the decade, driven by rising expenses for imported water, infrastructure maintenance, and operational costs. Despite investments in storage, desalination, and recycled water, consumers are bearing the financial burden. Jordan and Lana explore the economic and policy factors behind these rate hikes, whether there are fairer alternatives, and what this means for the future of water affordability in...
#14: Toxic tap - America's ongoing water crisis
In this episode of Tap’d In, hosts Jordan and Lana examine the alarming state of U.S. drinking water, drawing insights from Erin Brockovich’s report and recent developments in the Flint water crisis. Brockovich highlights the widespread presence of chemicals, heavy metals, and radioactive substances in water supplies, often exceeding safe levels, while slow federal action and inadequate regulations leave millions at risk. Meanwhile, the Flint water crisis sees another legal chapter as Veolia North America agrees to a $53 million settlement—while denying responsibility. Jordan and Lana discuss the systemic failures in water...
#13: Why California sold its water to two billionaires
In this episode of Tap’d In, hosts Jordan and Lana dive into the ColdFusion YouTube investigation on the Resnicks, the billionaire couple who wield enormous influence over California’s water. The episode unpacks how they built their empire, their control over water rights in a drought-prone state, and the ethical concerns surrounding private ownership of such a vital resource. Jordan and Lana also discuss the broader implications of their water management on California’s wildfires and ongoing water crisis, questioning whether the state’s laws allow for fair and sustainable distribution. Is it time to...
#12: Cancer rates are rising. Is toxic water to blame?
In this episode of Tap’d In, hosts Jordan and Lana break down Erin Brockovich’s latest report on the rising cancer rates linked to PFAS-contaminated drinking water. A new study estimates that these "forever chemicals" contribute to approximately 6,800 cancer cases annually in the U.S. The episode explores how companies like 3M and DuPont have suppressed evidence of PFAS toxicity and raises concerns about potential deregulation efforts that could weaken EPA standards. Jordan and Lana discuss the urgent need for stricter regulations, corporate accountability, and public advocacy, encouraging listeners to support better water test...
#11: The time has come to remove rocket fuel from our water
Episode Description:Â
In this episode of Tap’d In, hosts Jordan and Lana dive into Erin Brockovich’s alarming report on perchlorate, a toxic component of rocket fuel, found in U.S. drinking water and food. The episode examines how the Department of Defense is a primary source of this contamination and why the EPA has been slow to regulate it. Brockovich highlights the serious health risks, particularly to the thyroid, and explores how financial incentives may be delaying necessary protections. Jordan and Lana discuss the broader implications of corporate and g...
#10: Environmental flows - Healthy environments keep us alive and happy
In this final episode of the special Tap’d In series exploring David Zetland's Living with Water Scarcity, hosts Jordan and Lana tackle the challenge of balancing human water consumption with the ecological needs of rivers and wetlands. They discuss the complexities of managing water as a public good and the difficulty of assigning economic value to environmental flows. Zetland’s two-step approach prioritizes environmental needs before human consumption, emphasizing ecosystem health and long-term sustainability, even if it disrupts some stakeholders. Jordan and Lana also explore how human ingenuity can help us adapt to less water without sacrificing quality of l...
#2: Water on tap - Subsidies increase waste and reduce reliability
In this episode of Tap’d In, hosts Jordan and Lana examine the pitfalls of current water pricing systems, inspired by insights from David Zetland's Living with Water Scarcity. Many utilities rely on hidden subsidies and flawed pricing structures, like increasing block rates, which encourage overconsumption and unfairly impact certain customer groups. The episode explores the environmental and financial consequences of these unsustainable practices as well as potential solutions. Jordan and Lana also unpack the complexities of balancing the interests of utilities, customers, and the environment, shedding light on the critical role of regulation.
David Zetland: ...
#3: Water for profit - Properly regulated businesses add value
In this episode of Tap’d In, hosts Jordan and Lana delve into the role of economic principles in managing water resources, guided by David Zetland's Living with Water Scarcity. The discussion challenges common criticisms of bottled water, proposing that consumer choice and environmental concerns are better addressed through policies like deposit systems rather than outright bans. Zetland also advocates for full-cost pricing to encourage conservation and prevent shortages, while debunking the need for overly complex "energy-water nexus" strategies. Instead, he argues that proper pricing mechanisms for both water and energy can naturally optimize resource allocation. Finally, the episode hi...
#4: Recycled water - Dirty water must be cleaned and can be sold
In this episode of Tap’d In, hosts Jordan and Lana explore innovative approaches to water management, inspired by David Zetland's Living with Water Scarcity. The discussion emphasizes the need to move from single-source water provision to localized, closed-cycle systems that prioritize recycling and pollution control. Zetland highlights the potential of pricing mechanisms and regulatory strategies, such as volumetric wastewater charges, cap-and-trade programs for industrial pollutants, and mandatory insurance against catastrophic pollution events. These tools aim to incentivize conservation and reduce pollution while addressing the increasing scarcity of freshwater resources. Jordan and Lana also examine the importance of realistic wa...
#5: Food and water - Water markets help farmers produce more with less
In this episode of Tap’d In, hosts Jordan and Lana explore how market-based solutions can address water scarcity in agriculture, drawing on insights from David Zetland's Living with Water Scarcity. The discussion critiques existing water rights systems, which often lead to inefficiency and conflict, and advocates for a shift toward local water markets. Farmers buying and selling irrigation water in these markets can maximize benefits, improve management, and better balance private rights with environmental and social needs. Jordan and Lana delve into the strengths and weaknesses of different water rights systems and explain market mechanisms, like auctions, that fa...
#6: Water for the community - Citizens must hold their leaders to account
In this episode of Tap’d In, hosts Jordan and Lana examine the complexities of managing water resources for the benefit of all, guided by David Zetland's Living with Water Scarcity. The episode highlights the limitations of relying solely on politics or monopolistic utilities, which often result in conflicts of interest and suboptimal outcomes. Zetland advocates for a blend of economic mechanisms—like performance insurance and market-based competition—paired with increased community involvement and transparency to improve performance and ensure accountability. Using real-world case studies, Jordan and Lana explore the potential for a more customer-centric and sustainable model of water...
#7: A human right to water - Poor people need money and choices more than rights
In this episode of Tap’d In, hosts Jordan and Lana tackle the complex relationship between water as a human right and the need for good governance, inspired by David Zetland's Living with Water Scarcity. The discussion emphasizes that ensuring access to water for the poor requires more than declaring rights—it demands transparent and competitive management, stronger property rights, and innovative financial mechanisms. Zetland explores how corruption undermines water access and offers practical solutions like registering water rights and incorporating market mechanisms to improve efficiency and equity. Jordan and Lana highlight how accountable governance, grounded in economic realities, can...
#8: Pipes, canals and dams - Infrastructure endures, so be careful who pays
In this episode of Tap’d In, hosts Jordan and Lana examine the challenges of water infrastructure mismanagement, drawing from David Zetland's Living with Water Scarcity. The episode highlights how subsidies and political influence often result in inefficient allocation and environmental harm. Zetland advocates for reforming policies to align costs with benefits, encourage private investment, and prioritize adaptable, sustainable infrastructure, including "green" solutions, to address climate change risks. Jordan and Lana emphasize the long-term impacts of infrastructure decisions and the need for systemic changes to achieve economic, environmental, and social sustainability.
David Zetland: https://ww...
#9: Water wars - Solve conflict locally to help citizens
In this episode of Tap’d In, hosts Jordan and Lana delve into the causes of water conflicts and potential solutions, inspired by David Zetland's Living with Water Scarcity. The episode highlights how outdated institutions and political maneuvering often spark disputes, leading to costly and harmful outcomes. Zetland emphasizes the importance of local-level solutions, advocating for empathy and cooperation to resolve water disputes by focusing on shared interests. Jordan and Lana explore how recognizing the human element and the true value of water to local communities can lead to more effective and sustainable management, moving beyond large-scale, top-down approaches.
...#1: Water as a commodity - Manage water according to its use
In this debut episode of Tap’d In, hosts Jordan and Lana explore water management through an economic lens, drawing insights from David Zetland's Living with Water Scarcity. Water is categorized as a good, analyzed by its rivalrous and excludable properties to uncover optimal management strategies. The discussion highlights the critical role of accurate pricing in reflecting scarcity, balancing supply and demand, and ensuring equitable distribution—contrasting sharply with the outdated and often flawed pricing practices of monopolistic providers. Jordan and Lana also delve into the complexities of reforming water management, acknowledging challenges like regulatory negligence and managerial inefficiency that...
