OUR PODCAST
THe open RiveRs Navigator
THe open RiveRs Navigator
So many of the people who impact our lives undertake their work in relative obscurity. This podcast features experts in science, technology, agriculture, climate change and education to share their expertise, the passion that fuels their work, and their lessons and reflections on the societal themes that surround us.
Podcast Seasons
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Season 1
This interview podcast features experts in science, technology, agriculture, climate change and education and explores their expertise, their rationale for undertaking this work, the personal story that propels them forward and how they provide clarity on our path to do better.
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Season 2
Season 2 of Open Rivers Navigator features guests working in conservation, soil health, climate change and education and navigates not only the complexities of their work, but the complexities of doing this work. Across these episodes, we discuss how mental and physical health intersect, the value of creating inclusive and diverse environments, and how we bring out the best in our fellow humans.
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Season 3
Season 3 focuses on the role of data, digitization and technology across agriculture, food and beyond. The experts who join us explore how data and technology have shaped our present and pave a path forward. Data and technology offer great potential to help many globally while taking care of the world around us, and by bringing our whole selves to the development and use of our data and technology, we can truly unlock their full potential.
Meet the host
The podcast is hosted by Dr. Shefali Mehta. Shefali brings her passion for the environment and for sharing diverse perspectives to each interview. She is fueled by curiosity and broad ranging experiences in the world of research, consulting, agriculture and the environment, and is the founder of Open Rivers Consulting Associates.
The inspiration.
Shefali’s uncle, Dr. Pravin Mehta, an aeronautical engineer, had a successful and impactful career despite spending most of it behind the scenes. He worked on many major telescopes and published extensively. Few people outside his field would have heard of him or understood his work, yet we have all benefited from his efforts. Sadly, weeks before his interview in 2019, he passed away, and Shefali did not have the chance to share this idea or speak with him. This series was initially titled “Obscure No More”, to capture the many who work behind the scenes, but that neglected to recognize the joy and curiosity inspired by people like Dr. Pravin Mehta. “Open Rivers Navigator” is dedicated to him and the many who work to better this world.
Statistics
1,800+ downloads
3,000+ podcast website views
5.0 stars on Apple Podcasts
*As of April 2023
Release
Season 3 was released in 2021.
Season 2 was released in December 2020.
Season 1 premiered in August 2020 and featured 8 guests with a special, 3-part series featuring Dr. LaKisha Odom.
Where to listen
Open Rivers Navigator is available directly from our website, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts.
Reviews
“I learned something new in all of them and was really impressed with how you were able to weave in themes about equity and social justice—and I especially liked how you always end with asking folks what they are most hopeful about.”
“I look forward to contributing to this series of very interesting (and uplifting!) podcasts.”
“Today I finished listening to the Open Rivers podcast….so professional, approachable, humble, and inspiring...I’ll be checking out her other podcasts!”
“[Shefali] does a fantastic job, please tell her I'd like to know more about HER... She is gifted with excellent communication skills.”