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Water, Wisdom & What It Means to Lead Differently with Kariann Aarup

Meaningful Conversations with Annyse

Meaningful Conversations with Annyse
Water, Wisdom & What It Means to Lead Differently with Kariann Aarup
Jun 23, 2025

In this inspiring episode, Annyse sits down with Kariann Aarup, Vice President of Programme Development and Impact at AquaAction, to explore what it truly means to lead with intention, empathy, and connection in the water sector—and beyond.

Kariann shares her journey as a collaborative leader deeply rooted in purpose, personal growth, and environmental stewardship. Together, they dive into topics like spiritual connection to nature, the deeper meaning of “treatment,” and how youth innovation is reshaping the water space.

This is a conversation full of wisdom, reflection, and powerful questions—one that invites us all to slow down and lead from a more conscious place.

What You'll Hear in This Episode:

  • Kariann’s personal connection to water and what “serenity” means to her
  • The spiritual and emotional dimensions of working in the water sector
  • Why language—especially the word “treatment”—matters in how we care for people, water, and the planet
  • How AquaAction’s youth innovation challenge is fostering both outer solutions and inner growth
  • The role of Indigenous storytelling, journaling, and imagination in shaping new leadership
  • Live epiphanies and heartfelt insights about how we show up in our work and in the world

Key Questions Explored:

  • How does water want to be treated?
  • How are we treating ourselves, our infrastructure, and our waterways?
  • Can we feel our way into the future, not just think our way there?
  • What kind of leadership is needed now—and next?

About Our Guest:

Kariann Aarup is the Vice President of Programme Development and Impact at AquaAction. She leads with a deep sense of care, connection, and collaboration, focusing on empowering the next generation of innovation-minded talent to tackle pressing freshwater challenges.

Her work blends strategic leadership with personal passion—bringing together community, spirituality, and social impact in transformative ways.

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