Drip Feed podcast

Episode 1, part 1: There’s Way Less Water Than You Think  

Earth is known as the “blue planet” but the amount of water we can actually use might surprise you.
In this episode of Drip Feed, we zoom out to explore water on a global scale. How much of the world’s water is actually fresh? What even counts as “fresh water”? And why is the amount we can drink such a tiny fraction of what exists on Earth?
We also look at Scotland’s relationship with water, the myth of endless supply, and why this everyday resource is far more precious than most of us realise.
This is the big-picture episode, understanding water itself before we dive into how it reaches you.

Episode 1, part 2: We drink dinosaur pee

Yes… it’s true!
In Episode 2 of Drip Feed, we dive into the history of water & the fact that the water we drink today has been on Earth for billions of years, recycled again and again through rivers, clouds, ice, living things… and yes, even dinosaurs.
From Victorian engineering to modern science, we explore what’s changed in how we manage water, how it travels from source to tap, and why protecting it matters more than ever in a changing climate.
It’s history, science, and a little bit of watery wonder all in one, short podcast.

Episode 2

In this episode, we explore Scotland’s great outdoors through the lens of van life, sustainable travel and responsible water use. Joined by guest Adam, the conversation traces a personal journey from city life to discovering Scotland’s landscapes, and how that connection inspires more thoughtful choices about how we travel, camp and care for the environment. The episode breaks down the realities of fresh, grey and black water, why proper disposal matters, and the real impacts of irresponsible behaviour on rivers, wildlife and communities. It’s an open, practical and engaging discussion about enjoying Scotland responsibly.

Episode 3

In this episode our hosts catch up with Adam about where he’ll take his newly upgraded camper van, including Torridon, the Isle of Arran, Skye, and more. They discuss how tourism strains local resources, noting Arran’s population can increase fivefold in peak season and that water has been tankered to Arran due to demand.
Adam shares concerns about waste dumping and litter on routes like the NC500 and uses the principle “take only pictures, leave only footprints.” He reflects on appreciating tap water after running out during the Cuillin Traverse and drinking puddle water, and highlights Scotland’s Top Up Tap map plus other essential tools.

Episode 4

Mariella hosts Drip Feed with reservoir rangers Josh and Helen to discuss Scottish Water’s role in caring for 300 reservoirs around Scotland. They discuss what reservoirs are and why they matter for drinking water. While also explaining what a reservoir ranger is, and their role in protecting the landscape that surrounds reservoirs. Josh and Helen explain the importance of fire safety at reservoirs, as well as the dangers of swimming in the open water. They highlight wildlife and protected species, including Swallows, House martins, nationally scarce beetles, and internationally significant Pink-Footed geese at Gladhouse.

Episode 5

This episode of Drip Feed focuses on water safety at reservoirs and explains why reservoirs can be especially dangerous compared with places like swimming pools, the sea or lochs.

Host Georgie is joined by Davy, Scottish Water’s Chief Reservoir Ranger, and Kirsty Doig from the Darcey Sunshine Foundation. Together, they discuss the hidden risks at reservoirs, including cold water shock, deep and unpredictable water, submerged infrastructure, negative buoyancy from air curtains, and unsafe jumping or “tombstoning.”

Episode 6

In this episode of Drip Feed, Georgie chats with Scottish Water’s Annelies McMillan and The Ginger Gairdner, Brian Cunningham, about Scotland’s changing rainfall, why flooding is becoming a bigger challenge, and how simple garden changes — from water butts to cutting the grass less often — can help slow the flow. Listen to the full episode to hear practical, realistic ideas for helping your garden soak up more rain — and find out why there really is no need to mow every week.

Episode 7

In this episode of Drip Feed, Clare explores the common belief that Scotland’s wet climate means there’s no need to save water. Joined by Scottish Water’s Brian McCarthy and sustainability advocate Less Waste Laura, she uncovers the reality behind Scotland’s water supply and why using water wisely still matters. The discussion covers how water is sourced, treated and delivered, alongside the impact of climate change and growing demand. From shorter showers and fixing leaks to reusing water in the garden, the episode shares simple, practical ways everyone can help. The key message: every drop has value, and small actions can make a big difference.

Episode 8

This episode explores how water fuels performance, recovery and everyday wellbeing. Host Clare Smith is joined by Commonwealth Games bronze medallist Cameron Lynn and Dr Nidia Rodriguez-Sanchez from the University of Stirling to look at hydration from both lived experience and scientific perspective.

From medal-winning moments and training routines to concentration, cramps, electrolytes and simple ways to stay topped up, the episode shows that hydration is not just for elite athletes. It matters when we are working, studying, exercising, travelling, or simply getting through a busy day.

Episode 9

What do a bright yellow space hopper, dozens of bread baskets, wet wipes and a fatberg have in common? They have all caused trouble in places they should never have reached: our sewers.

In this Halloween edition of Drip Feed, host Georgie Reid meets Catherine Gemmell from the Marine Conservation Society, who works on marine litter policy, and Scottish Water’s Ross Graham, whose work spans the sewer network through to treatment. Together, they reveal the scary nightmares lurking below our streets, how everyday items become sewer monsters and the simple steps we can all take to stop feeding them.

Episode 10

What makes the perfect cup of tea? The answer might already be sitting in your tap. In the latest Drip Feed, host Mariella is joined by Richard Ross from Tea Scotland and Matt Martin, Team Leader in Scottish Water’s Microbiology Lab, to explore the relationship between Scotland’s water quality and a great brew.

The conversation covers why Scotland’s generally soft water can help the natural flavour of tea come through, how tea blends were once tailored to local water, and how Scottish Water’s laboratories and trained taste and odour panellists check the water that comes out of our taps. Richard also shares his tips for a better brew, including why green tea prefers cooler water, what loose leaf can bring to the cup and his verdict on the milk debate!