Full Circle Podcast – Season 3, Episode 2

In this episode of the Full Circle Podcast, host Steven Baird speaks with Ana Schwab, lobbyist with Best Best & Krieger, about the critical role of federal and state advocacy in advancing the Pure Water Project Las Virgenes-Triunfo.

Ana shares her journey from Capitol Hill to specializing in water policy, explaining how understanding California’s complex water systems requires patience, coalition-building, and strong partnerships. The conversation explores:

• How federal agencies like the EPA, Bureau of Reclamation, and Army Corps of Engineers influence California’s water supply.

• The importance of congressional relationships and coalition-building to secure funding and regulatory support.

• The challenge of navigating shifting political landscapes while ensuring long-term water reliability.

• How federal regulations on PFAS and other contaminants impact local water agencies, and the need for funding to help agencies meet new standards.

• Why the Pure Water Project stands out—delivering local supply, watershed protection, and regional benefits that resonate with regulators and funding agencies.

Ana emphasizes the need to modernize water infrastructure, expand storage and conveyance, and streamline regulations to avoid costly delays. The episode highlights how advocacy, collaboration, and persistence are essential to ensuring safe, sustainable water for the region

The Full Circle Podcast presents a special episode exploring the intersection of pure water and the medical community. Host Mike McNutt is joined by Brian Barry, Executive Director of the Ventura County Medical Association; Shy Roy, past president of the LA County Medical Association; and Andy Coradeschi, President of the LVMWD Board. Together, they discuss water supply challenges in Los Angeles and Ventura counties, the critical role of clean water in public health and agriculture, and the innovative Pure Water Project, which transforms wastewater into a sustainable potable resource. The conversation highlights the importance of trust, transparency, and community engagement in advancing water solutions.00:00:00 - 00:01:08: Introduction of guests and their backgrounds.00:01:27 - 00:02:19: Brian Barry discusses his background in orthopedics and sports medicine.00:04:22 - 00:05:28: Shy Roy talks about his background and involvement in the LA County Medical Association. ​00:10:21 - 00:11:27: Discussion on the function and role of medical associations in the community. ​00:11:55 - 00:12:33: ShyRoy explains the evolving role of medical associations in the healthcare system.00:13:49 - 00:15:41: Shy Roy discusses the challenges of Medicare and Medicaid systems.00:16:04 - 00:17:09: Brian Barry talks about affordable housing for the medical community in Ventura County.00:19:08 - 00:20:33: Shy Roy shares personal experience with climate change impacts and public health outcomes.00:22:32 - 00:23:03: Brian Barry discusses the impact of climate change on agricultural workers in Ventura County.00:25:33 - 00:26:21: Andy Coradeschi introduces the Pure Water Project and its significance.00:27:09 - 00:28:07: Explanation of the advanced water treatment facility and its benefits. ​00:32:16 - 00:33:24: Discussion on deep sea water desalination technology.00:48:34 - 00:49:24: Brian Barry emphasizes the importance of involving youth in sustainability initiatives.00:55:01 - 00:56:26: Brian Barry discusses the importance of trust, respect, and credibility in leadership.00:52:08 - 00:54:17: Shy Roy shares insights on combating misinformation during the Covid pandemic and parallels to water industry challenges.01:03:00 - 01:04:08: Final thoughts and appreciation for the guests' participation and endorsement of the Pure Water Project.

Full Circle Podcast Season 002 Episode 006 💧 Discover the Future of Water Supply with Jay Lewitt! In this episode of the Full Circle Podcast, we sit down with Jay Lewitt, Las Virgenes Municipal Water District (LVMWD) Board President and JPA Chair, to explore the Pure Water Project—a game-changing solution to ensure water reliability for generations to come. 🌍 Key Highlights: ⏳ [Timestamps Below!] ✔️ How droughts and climate change shaped the need for innovation. ✔️ The decision-making behind potable reuse vs. other costly alternatives. ✔️ How the project boosts regional independence and water security. ✔️ Addressing public concerns: Is purified water safe? (Spoiler: Yes!) ✔️ Fun fact: Why you’re already drinking reused water! 🔎 Why Watch? Water affects everything—from your home to the environment. Join us to learn how stakeholder collaboration, cutting-edge technology, and local leadership are securing a sustainable water future. Whether you’re a resident, an environmentalist, or just curious, this episode has something for you. 🎧 Timestamps: 0:00 – Introduction: Meet Jay Lewitt 2:08 – Jay’s Background: Politics to water leadership 7:57 – Why water reliability matters: Lessons from the drought 8:20 – The Pure Water Project: Sustainable water solutions 10:25 – Stakeholder collaboration: How we built trust 12:42 – Addressing community concerns: “I’m not drinking that!” 14:08 – Regional water independence and its significance 18:33 – The project’s cost vs. value to homeowners 23:39 – Is purified water safe? What you need to know 25:39 – How YOU can get involved with water stewardship 29:25 – Fun fact: Dinosaur water and Sacramento wastewater! 30:27 – Closing thoughts 👍 If you enjoyed this episode: ✅ Like, share, and subscribe to Full Circle Podcast for more in-depth conversations about water sustainability and innovation. 🔔 Hit the bell icon to never miss an episode! 🌐 Connect with Us: Learn more about the Pure Water Project and the Las Virgenes - Triunfo JPA here: http://wwww.OurPureH2O.com #WaterSustainability #PureWaterProject #FullCirclePodcast #WaterReuse #LVMWD #DroughtSolutions #EnvironmentalStewardship #PotableReuse #WaterSecurity