024: Designing the Future of Water: Shashank Varma on Innovation, Viven, and What Homes Are Missing
Rethinking Water, Part 2: Why Safe Isn’t Always Healthy with Shashank Varma, Founder of Viven
In Part 2 of our conversation with water futurist Shashank Varma, we dig deeper into why water should be viewed not just as a utility, but as a wellness input. From outdated infrastructure and hidden chemicals to the role of minerals, this episode explores how the water we drink is often misunderstood, and what it looks like to design homes and systems that truly support human vitality.
What you'll learn in this episode:
The difference between “safe” water and “optimal” water
Why distilled and reverse osmosis water might not be your best option
What remineralization is, and how it helps the body function
Why water quality is a crucial (but overlooked) part of home and building design
How perception and storytelling can shift the way we think about water
Guest Bio: Shashank Varma
Shashank is the founder of Viven, a wellness water company redefining how we think about hydration. Drawing from his background in systems innovation and his own health journey, Shashank helps individuals and organizations move beyond compliance-based thinking to design water experiences that support well-being.
Listener FAQs
Q: What’s the problem with tap water if it meets government standards?
A: “Safe” in the compliance sense doesn’t necessarily mean optimal for health. Outdated infrastructure, legacy chemicals, and allowable contaminant levels don’t align with what supports long-term well-being.
Q: Is distilled water bad for you?
A: Not necessarily harmful in the short term, but drinking demineralized water long-term may strain the body. Our cells expect minerals in hydration, and many RO/distilled systems strip those out.
Q: How can I improve my home’s water quality?
A: Use filtration plus remineralization. Look into certified systems that preserve or add minerals, and avoid materials like PVC or lead in plumbing.
Q: What’s the easiest first step?
A: Start with education. Understand your local water report, and test what’s coming out of your tap. Then look into simple home filter solutions that go beyond taste and smell.
Resources & Links:
Episode 23 (Part 1) with Shashank
