Elemental Conversations

Flood: The Threats To, and From, Water

As the Earth experiences increasingly volatile weather events, will extreme water-related effects, like flood or drought, accelerate the end of civilisation as we know it? Alexis and Richard round the series off with a look at the watery challenges facing us, and potential solutions, before reflecting back on what we've learned over the last eight episodes. Presenters: Dr Alexis Willett and Richard Purnell Music: Chelsea Hare

Saturate: When Water is Work

Fishing, shipping, diving and hovering - this episode has it all. While most of us busy ourselves without a thought to what's happening out at sea, thousands are working miles from land and doing some of the most dangerous jobs in the world. Presenters: Richard Purnell and Dr Alexis Willett Music: Chelsea Hare

Cleanse: The Symbolism of Water

Richard and Alexis explore the Cosmic Ocean, River Styx and Well of Urd, amongst other aquatic locations, as they discuss water in religion, spiritual beliefs and folklore. Did gods have their particular powers assigned by a committee? Just how far can we interact with Princess Di’s memorial? And what is Richard’s star sign?Presenters: Richard Purnell and Dr Alexis Willett Music: Chelsea Hare

Navigate: The Politics and Power of Water

Water is never far from politics and its control is often central to power plays and conflict. Richard and Alexis discuss watery dodgy dealings and poor planning decisions around the world and how these affect populations and compound inequality.

Splash: The Pleasure of Water

Water plays a big role in many of our pleasurable experiences in life, whether relaxing in the bath, swimming as an escape from everyday worries or larking about on a boat. Alexis and Richard argue over the merits of baths versus showers, consider water's sensory powers and ride on a rap tide.