Make It Clear: Why You Can't Just Flush and Forget
Every two weeks, we'll bring you new episodes of “Make It Clear” that cover timely and relevant topics in the water and wastewater industries. Our guests will also provide their unique insights as we discuss the world’s most precious resource. While our content is mainly geared toward water and wastewater professionals, we welcome everyone who’d like to listen.
Episodes
In this episode, we walk through what really impacts the longevity of an onsite system from a homeowner’s perspective. We cover simple habits, smart installation choices, and the maintenance practices that can make a system last longer—or fail early if ignored. We also highlight common mistakes and red flags to watch out for so you can protect your investment and avoid costly issues.
In this episode, we sit down with Orenco’s Johnathon Honeywell to find out what’s really driving wastewater decisions in new developments—including liquid-only sewer systems, why they’re gaining traction, and how they compare with “big pipe” gravity sewer. We get into the real-world costs and how the right approach can open up new opportunities for communities. If you’re inv...
Join us as we talk about the “tools on the truck” — basically the must-haves for anyone working on septic systems. We get into everything from PPE and safety basics to the everyday tools and diagnostic gear that can save you a trip back to the shop. We also discuss how prepping ahead of a job and asking the right questions can make your day a whole lot easier. Through it all, we share practical tip...
In this episode, we dive into control panels—the “brains” of septic systems—and explain what they do, how they work, and why choosing the right one matters. We break down the differences between alarm panels and control panels, including timers, relays, PLCs, and telemetry. We also share planning tips, common mistakes to avoid, a practical checklist to ensure the correct panel is specified, a...
Drawing on Orenco’s decades of experience, we explain why “cheap” wastewater treatment is almost always expensive in the long run. Talking through the pitfalls—wrong technologies, undersized systems, poor‑quality components, and ignored alarms—we show how they can snowball into major repairs, environmental problems, and big hits to property value. We also share some simple steps homeown...
We open this episode with full hearts for a conversation that’s emotional and deeply meaningful—because this time, we aren’t interviewing a guest, we’re talking about Angela’s retirement. With our longtime friend Jeff Ball stepping in as guest host, we look back on decades of memories, from soldering parts as a kid to building an industry‑leading company and podcast we’re incredib...
As homes are built on smaller and smaller lots, wastewater design can get complicated fast. In this episode, we’re joined by Bill Hensley, Senior Systems Engineer at Orenco, to talk through the realities of designing treatment systems for tight spaces. We cover site constraints, soil challenges, regulatory considerations, and some creative solutions that make small-lot development possible.
In this episode, we break down what really happens to on-site wastewater systems when the power goes out and why some setups are more vulnerable than others. We explore the differences between gravity systems, pumped systems, and grinder systems, and then share practical steps homeowners can take to protect their systems during outages.
If you have comments or questions about our podcast, you can reach u...
In this episode, we dig into one of our favorite (and most important) topics: septic tanks. We’re joined by Jessy Tucker, Senior System Engineer at Orenco, to break down why septic tanks matter, how they work, and what really happens inside them. From watertight design and biology to everyday habits that help—or hurt—system performance, we keep the science practical and the conversation easy to fol...
In this timely webinar, we break down what’s been making waves in the wastewater world: AI showing up at treatment plants, wastewater data being used to track public health trends, and sewage spills hitting the headlines. We also dig into emerging tech aimed at PFAS and other tough contaminants, helping make sense of what the news really means for water professionals.
Article Links:
https://www.wwltv.com/article...
In this engaging episode, we take a surprisingly fun journey through the history of the toilet—from chamber pots and royal inventions to modern low-flush and smart technology. We explore the innovations, myths, and public health milestones that shaped how waste is managed today. Along the way, we connect toilets to sanitation, infrastructure, and water stewardship, highlighting why this often-overlooked invent...
We’re celebrating a major milestone—our 100th episode! In this special installment, we look back on the moments and conversations that have meant the most to us over the past four years. From paradigm-shifting ideas to memorable interviews, we reflect on what we’ve learned along the way. Most importantly, we thank our listeners for tuning in, sharing the journey, and helping make this podcast possi...
In this episode, we chat with Darren Mendenhall, Customer Service Manager at Orenco, about the real-world aspects of helping various people with wastewater systems. We hear how the customer service team supports homeowners, installers, and engineers with troubleshooting, training, and plenty of patience. Darren shares how to handle calls about alarms and tricky questions, as well as those memorable calls that remind...
In this episode, we pick up our historical deep dive and explore how wastewater treatment was transformed between the 1800s and the present day. From cholera-prevention breakthroughs to modern filtration, AI, and reuse strategies, we trace the innovations that shaped the clean, reliable systems we depend on now.
If you have comments or questions about our podcast, you can reach us through this link. To di...
In this episode, we journey through ancient civilizations to uncover how humanity first tackled wastewater and sanitation. From the advanced sewers of the Indus Valley to Rome’s engineering marvels, we explore brilliant innovations, surprising missteps, and how history’s sanitation lessons still shape the way we treat water today.
If you have comments or questions about our podcast, you can reach u...
We’re diving into all the most common septic system questions—how they work, what not to flush, and how to spot trouble before it starts. With real stories, expert advice, and plenty of laughs, we’re breaking down what everyone’s been Googling about keeping septic systems healthy and worry-free.
If you have comments or questions about our podcast, you can reach us through this link. ...
In this episode, we sit down with Carl Thompson, VP of Sales and Business Development at Infiltrator, to reflect on the first year since the Orenco acquisition. We talk through the benefits of bringing two industry leaders together, the exciting innovations from our combined R&D teams, and how our customers are already seeing stronger support and better wastewater solutions. Finally, we share how teamwork, progr...
In this episode, we sit down with Jim Bransfield of Infiltrator Water Technologies to discuss the acquisition of Orenco Systems and how it’s driving collaboration, innovation, and shared purpose across the wastewater industry. The conversation highlights a renewed focus on R&D, meeting stricter regulations, and delivering scalable, cost-effective solutions, especially for decentralized systems. Together, t...
In this episode, we discuss recent developments in wastewater management and the implications for public health and safety. We cover California's efforts to limit forever chemicals, Eugene's exemplary water quality compliance, Tennessee's innovative approach to drug testing through wastewater, and the plan in Los Angeles to transform wastewater into clean drinking water. Our conversation highlights the importance of...
In this conversation, we discuss the US EPA's Septic Smart Week and the importance of inspecting and maintaining septic systems. We also review previous podcasts covering what to flush, septic do's and don'ts, and the signs of failing systems. We emphasize the environmental impact of neglecting these systems and highlight available resources for homeowners to ensure their septic systems are well-maintained.
Popular Podcasts
Hey Jonas! The official Jonas Brothers podcast. Hosted by Kevin, Joe, and Nick Jonas. It’s the Jonas Brothers you know... musicians, actors, and well, yes, brothers. Now, they’re sharing another side of themselves in the playful, intimate, and irreverent way only they can. Spend time with the Jonas Brothers here and stay a little bit longer for deep conversations like never before.
If you've ever wanted to know about champagne, satanism, the Stonewall Uprising, chaos theory, LSD, El Nino, true crime and Rosa Parks, then look no further. Josh and Chuck have you covered.
Current and classic episodes, featuring compelling true-crime mysteries, powerful documentaries and in-depth investigations. Follow now to get the latest episodes of Dateline NBC completely free, or subscribe to Dateline Premium for ad-free listening and exclusive bonus content: DatelinePremium.com
Betrayal Weekly is back for a new season. Every Thursday, Betrayal Weekly shares first-hand accounts of broken trust, shocking deceptions, and the trail of destruction they leave behind. Hosted by Andrea Gunning, this weekly ongoing series digs into real-life stories of betrayal and the aftermath. From stories of double lives to dark discoveries, these are cautionary tales and accounts of resilience against all odds. From the producers of the critically acclaimed Betrayal series, Betrayal Weekly drops new episodes every Thursday. If you would like to share your story, you can reach out to the Betrayal Team by emailing them at betrayalpod@gmail.com and follow us on Instagram at @betrayalpod and @glasspodcasts. Please join our Substack for additional exclusive content, curated book recommendations, and community discussions. Sign up FREE by clicking this link Beyond Betrayal Substack. Join our community dedicated to truth, resilience, and healing. Your voice matters! Be a part of our Betrayal journey on Substack.
The official podcast of comedian Joe Rogan.