Off Gassing: A Scuba Podcast

In this Takeover Episode, Tamara Adame interviews Gaëlle Giesen as she prepares for her historic attempt to break the female depth record of two hundred meters while on a rebreather in open water. They speak about the challenges, logistics, special equipment, and most importantly the mentality required for such an attempt. Her early days of diving through her progression, her joy of going where humans are not meant to be, her recipe to succeed, and much more. Please enjoy.

Gaëlle Giesen
Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/gaelle.giesen/
Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100095601341531

Tamara Adame:
Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/cenote_girl/
Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/cenotegirl?mibextid=LQQJ4d
Website:
https://cenotegirl.com/

Aquatic sports always came naturally to Lilia Cabrera Gallaga. Growing up in Mexico City, she would search for ways to spend her free time in the water. Naturally, she would find her way to the world of scuba diving, which brought her to Playa De Carmen, where it was love at first visit. Here, she would progress through the sport becoming an instructor and avid cave diver. While continuing her education she would meet Vincent Rouquette-Cathala and eventually become invited to be a part of the Under The Jungle family. Please enjoy!

Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/mxscuba/
https://www.instagram.com/underthejungle/

Website:
https://www.mxscuba.com/
https://www.underthejungle.com/en/home/

The art of frustration is something that needs to be embraced when flirting or participating in exploration. Vincent Rouquette-Cathala, co-owner of Under The Jungle in Mexico is no stranger to exploration. Becoming obsessed with diving from an early age would eventually lead him down a path of searching for the unknown. At first, cave diving was a way to improve skills and pass the time until he could return to his love of wreck diving. With each dive, he would become more attracted to this environment that allowed him to improve, explore, create life-long friendships, and most importantly practice the art of frustration. Please enjoy.

Website:
https://www.underthejungle.com/en/home/

Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/vincent_rouquette_cathala/
https://www.instagram.com/underthejungle/

Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/vincent.rouquettecathala
https://www.facebook.com/underthejungle

With a few lights, a model, and a flooded cave, Natalie Gibb captures moments and creates a narrative for viewers to explore. Images that give us a glimpse into a world that many do not see or dare go. Images that take us away momentarily from our daily lives. As co-owner of Under The Jungle, she has helped to establish her shop as one of the premier dive training destinations in the world. Designing a team that inspires, motivates, and mentors all of their students. A place where students return time after time to further their education and become future explorers. Film, photography, explorations, science week, future goals, and much more. Please enjoy.

Website:
https://www.underthejungle.com/en/home/

Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/underthejungle/

Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/underthejungle

Originally from Finland, Arya Hintsala made a quick detour to Bali while en route to Australia. What began as a surf vacation, led her to enroll in an Open Water Course. After a few skills, she knew this was something she needed to pursue. Leaving her job at the foreign ministry, she quickly immersed herself in this newfound passion traveling to different destinations teaching, and guiding. The complexity, skill, and challenging aspect of technical diving appealed to her, so naturally, she found her way to the Yucatan in search of a higher level of training. Here she would be introduced to Natalie Gibb and Under The Jungle and once again, her path would be altered. Please enjoy.

Ojamo Mine Update:
For many years Sami Paakkarinen and others have been working hard so that everyone can dive in Ojamo again and this summer they took a significant step towards it as they signed the land lease agreement between the city of Lohja and Ojamo Kaivosukeltajat ry, the cave diver's association formed to try and open Ojamo for everyone. There are still some details to finish up but Ojamo is open and we're busy diving it!!
More information is available here:
https://www.facebook.com/sami.paakkarinen/posts/pfbid022bUJKNp2atHq9UwLJD7vvN67LeS6cmokKs16zPc6zcDCK9MawhE3GRAghpQ9ebzzl


Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/arya.irmeli/
https://www.instagram.com/underthejungle/

Website:
https://www.underthejungle.com/en/arya-hintsala/
https://www.underthejungle.com/en/home/

After coming across an advertisement for a Scuba Diving course, Rory O’Keefe decided, why not? Learning to dive in Canada is not for the timid but after the course, he started diving as often as possible. With a love of trekking and this newfound passion, he would find himself backpacking through Southeast Asia in search of exotic dive destinations and volcanos. Upon returning home, he booked a flight to Mexico and his life would forever be changed. Training to become a cave diver, underwater cave cartography, future mapping projects, the need for more cave cartographers, and much more. Please enjoy.

Website:
https://www.surveydown.com/

Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/survey.down/

During my visit to Mexico, I had a chance to sit down with Mauro Bordignon. From his first breaths while at university, he quickly became introduced to the world of overhead environments. A relentless motivation for exploration has led him worldwide to search for the undiscovered. Equally, he is motivated to instruct, mentor, and coach the next generation of explorers. Past and future explorations, moving to the Yucatan, Tren Maya, having the right mindset, Fathom Rebreathers, crashing weddings, and much more. Please enjoy. 

Website:
https://maurocaveworld.com/

Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/maurocaveworld/

Affiliations:
https://santidiving.com/
https://www.fathomdive.com/
https://k01diving.com/
https://www.gue.com/

I always enjoy speaking with different photographers on the show. Photography, dry photography, has been a hobby of mine for some time, so it’s great to hear the insights of others, who share in this passion. In this episode, I speak with Philip Stenqvist. He can usually be found capturing images in the flooded mines of Northern Europe. Diving the cold waters of Sweden, a brief moment as a dive professional, moving into technical and eventually overhead environments, underwater photography, and much more. Please enjoy.

Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/klimpen_photography/

Jimmy Choo started diving while serving with the Singapore Navy during his thirty-year career. Throughout this time, he was able to experience a variety of diving that the Navy offers. Moving into the recreational side, he started teaching with SSI before branching out to teach with different agencies. Never one to become complacent, led him to start training and eventually become an instructor with Global Underwater Explorers. Training in Singapore, teaching ministers, ice diving, a close call, and much more. Please enjoy.

Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/diver_jimmychoo/
https://www.instagram.com/guehq/

Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/jimmy.choo.39142072

Website:
http://www.redscuba.com/
https://www.gue.com/
https://www.gue.com/it/diver-training/gue-instructors/instructor-resume?id=15307

I am very excited to bring you this special takeover episode for Women’s Dive Day hosted by April and Olivia. Bringing their joy and laughter, they sit us down and speak about different career paths, finding balance, challenges faced being a woman in the industry, advice, tips, finding the right community, a game of red flags, green flags, and a maritime goodbye. It's an episode to enjoy, an episode not to be missed. 

Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/fullysubmergedscuba/
https://www.instagram.com/aprilweickert/

Website:
https://torpedorays.com/
https://fullysubmerged.com/

A year where opportunities were created, friendships were made, knowledge was gained, a year that changed her life. When Jenn Thomson received a call from GUE founder and president Jarrod Jablonski, informing her she was the 2022 recipient of the NeXtGen Scholarship, she knew she had to make the most out of this once-in-a-lifetime chance. In part two of her interview, I speak with her more in-depth about her travels, different courses, responsibilities, and her future with Global Underwater Explorers. Please enjoy.

Website:
https://jennelizabeththomson.com/
https://www.gue.com/

Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/jennelizabeththomson/
https://www.instagram.com/guehq/

I was very excited to invite Sanne Volja back to the podcast to hear more about her journey. A journey that started with a fear of the deep to becoming one of the most passionate and active explorers in the technical diving community. Consistently training to master her craft, naturally led her to Inner Space Explorers where she met like-minded people who shared the same goals and approach to diving. Finding love, moving from Belgium to France, her path into the overhead, finding the right tool for the job, The Cavettes, and much more. Please enjoy.

Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/tecdivesanne/
https://www.instagram.com/the.cavettes/
https://www.instagram.com/innerspace_explorers/
https://www.instagram.com/apeksdiving/

Affiliate Links:
https://www.instagram.com/daneurope/
https://www.instagram.com/dluxe_dive_gear/
https://www.instagram.com/innerspace_explorers/
https://uk.apeksdiving.com/

Originally from Germany, Nicole Krass would find herself diving occasionally before taking an extended break. As she was about to embark on a lifetime trip to Indonesia, she was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis. Determined to continue, she persevered and at the same time inspired others to pursue their dreams. Since this interview, she has become an Open Water Instructor to help the adaptive diving community. Starting a blog to bring awareness to diving with disabilities, diving after diagnosis, challenges faced, what you can do to help, and much more. Please enjoy.

Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/tauchenmithandicap/
https://www.instagram.com/dynamicnord.official/

Website:
https://www.tauchen-mit-handicap.de/
https://dynamicnord.com/

If you ask Tiffany Norberg where some of the best diving is, she will tell you it’s right in her backyard. At a young age, her mother made sure to involve her in water sports, so naturally, she would gravitate to the underwater world. She would find herself signing up for her Open Water Course while at school in Sweden. Here, she connected with the local diving community where she progressed into a professional role before stepping back to further pursue technical and wreck diving. Moving from Malaysia to Sweden, moving into closed circuit, secret shipwrecks, Baltic Circle Diving, local diving around Sweden, and much more. Please enjoy.

Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/tlnorberg/
https://www.instagram.com/reeldiving/
https://www.instagram.com/santidiving/
https://www.instagram.com/balticcirclediving/

Website:
https://balticcirclediving.com/
https://www.reeldiving.se/
https://santidiving.com/
http://badewanne.fi/

Originally from South London, Natalie Turner-Blackman became certified during her gap year in 2015. Earning her Open Water Certification while at a marine conservation program, she instantly fell in love with the aquatic environment. Returning home to the cold waters of England did not dissuade her from pursuing this newfound interest. After completing her degree in Marine and Natural History Photography, she went on to a career as a cinematographer. Commercial diving training, Long hours and hard work, making connections, moving into the silent world of diving, and much more. Please enjoy.

Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/natsturner/

In this episode, I sit down with musician, SSI instructor, and founder of Atlantic Scuba Adventures, Kirsty Moran. On the advice of her Mother, she decided to try diving while serving with the Irish Defense Forces. What at first terrified her, soon became one of the biggest joys of her life. Immersing herself, this new hobby quickly became a new career. Local diving, her path into technical and rebreather diving, giving back to the community, running and owning Ireland’s first solar-powered dive center, creating and surrounding herself with an amazing team, and much more. Please enjoy.

Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/scuba.kirsty/
https://www.instagram.com/atlantic.scuba.adventures/

Website:
https://atlanticscubaadventures.ie/

Growing up, Anna Dimitriadis would spend summers in Greece by the ocean. It was only a matter of time before she would find herself enjoying the wonderful moments beneath the surface. Now, she can usually be found in the wild, capturing those moments and bringing them to the big screen. Seeking more adventure, she quit her job and pursued a career in underwater cinematography. Making her way to Mexico to hone her new craft, moving into closed-circuit to further her career, high points and low points of film shoots, and much more. Please enjoy.

Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/annadimitriadis/

In this episode, I sit down with Dubravka Vejnovic as she shares her journey to become an inspirational figure to all divers in the scuba community. A path that started in Africa eventually led her to seek out her local diving, where she continued to train with Triton Diving Center. Through training, hard work, and perseverance, she has become a member of the renowned Triton Technical Diving Team, an ambassador for Dan Europe, TDI Divers, Poseidon, and most of all, a powerful, leading woman in her field.

Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/dr_dubravka.v/

Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/dubravka.salvaje

Triton Tecnical Team Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61557779367600

Santi Diving Equipment:
https://santidiving.com/
https://www.instagram.com/santidiving/

https://www.instagram.com/tritontecteam/
https://www.instagram.com/poseidon_see/
https://www.instagram.com/daneurope/
https://www.instagram.com/tdidivers/

In part one of this episode, I speak with the 2022 GUE NextGen Scholar, Jenn Thomson. After learning to dive in Thailand, she instantly knew that scuba diving was going to be a lifelong passion. She shares with me the GUE Scholarship process, a brief overview of her year after winning the award, some goals for the future, connecting with the GUE community, her mission to highlight a different side of the agency, and much more. Stay tuned for part two, as we go more into detail about her time as the NextGen Scholar. Please enjoy.

Website:
https://jennelizabeththomson.com/
https://www.gue.com/

Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/jennelizabeththomson/

Richard Kelch became certified with his wife after moving to a new city to create new friendships. Eventually, he joined a dive club to enjoy and spend more time underwater. With his local diving in The Great Lakes, it was only a matter of time before he discovered his love for wreck diving. As the wrecks became deeper, he would find himself moving into higher levels of training. After receiving a phone call one Sunday evening, he would find himself becoming co-owner along with friend Greg Hilliard, of Subsea Propulsion Systems. Please enjoy.   

Website:
https://subseapropulsion.com/

Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/subseapropulsion
https://www.facebook.com/richard.kelch

For several years Simon Bailey flirted with diving before becoming certified. Eventually earning his certification, he fell in love with this sport, as many of us do. One thing led to another and he would find himself 11 years out of the water. In this episode, I sit down with him and speak about his journey back to the aquatic environment. His second first breath,   his blog simonbdiving, getting out of his comfort zone, planning a path forward, an appreciation for the scuba community, a love of cold water, and much more. Please enjoy.

Website:
https://simonbdiving.com/

Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/simonbdiving/

YouTube:
https://www.youtube.com/@simonbdiving

In this episode, I speak with Underwater Photographer Frank Aron. After being introduced to scuba diving in the South of France, Frank eventually found his way to overhead environments. He became cave-certified in Mexico, moving on to spend time in the mines of Germany and France. Challenges of photography in flooded mines, developing a passion for dry-caving, enjoying a nice red wine, becoming a family of divers, and much more. Please enjoy.

Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/franks_uw_fotos/

In this Round Table discussion, I sit down with some members of the Wet Mules. Craig Challen, John Dalla-Zuanna, Richard Harris, and Ken Smith share some exploration stories, their different roles, challenges of remote explorations, installing underwater habitats, how the group was formed, the infamous “Green Book”, and much more. Please enjoy!

Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/wetmules

Website:
https://www.othree.co.uk/othree-ambassadors/the-wetmules/

In this first Takeover Episode, I welcome back Olivia from Fully Submerged Scuba to host, as she speaks with the Recipient of DEMA’s Wave Makers Award, Coordinator of the Sea Turtle Healing Center at Bavard Zoo, and Instructor with Ohana Dive Company, Jess Patterson. From an early age, Jess knew she wanted to pursue a career in helping marine life, her mission now is to inspire and educate future advocates of the aquatic world. Olivia and Jess sit down and speak about her journey from San Diego to Florida, turtle conservation, the good and bad of aquariums, how every little bit helps when it comes to conservation, and much more. Please enjoy! 

Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/jessicalainep/
https://www.instagram.com/fullysubmergedscuba/
https://www.instagram.com/ohanadiveco/
https://www.instagram.com/brevardzoo/

Website:
https://brevardzoo.org/conservation/conservation-programs/sea-turtle-healing-center/
https://www.ohanadiveco.com/
https://www.emeraldcharters.com/

Give a follow and share with your friends and family.

Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/offgassingscubapodcast/

Off Gassing Facebook Group
https://www.facebook.com/groups/814882646726565/

Website:
https://www.offgassingscuba.com/podcast

Traveling these days has its challenges. Add in some diving gear and exotic destinations, now those fleeting moments of excitement can soon turn into stress. One of my favorite and most exciting things about traveling is the cuisine. Imagine arriving at your destination only to find out that your dietary requirements are met with mediocrity and little to no choices. In this episode, I speak with Brett Robertson founder of Infinite Blue Dive Travel. A company that brings you to unique dive destinations, raises your environmental consciousness, removes the stress from making those travel plans, and creates better options for individuals on vegan, plant-based, or adapted diets. Please enjoy.

Website:
https://www.infinitebluedivetravel.com/

Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/ifbdivetravel/

Good dive buddies usually turn into great friendships and this group is no exception. In this Round Table discussion, I sit down with Bob “The Dude” Larson, Terry “Big T” Irvine, and Jeff “Hefe” Lindsay. Sit back, grab a drink, and enjoy as they share some funny stories, life-long memories, and knowledge about diving in the Great Lakes. Please enjoy.

Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/captain_b_larson/
https://www.instagram.com/terry.irvine1/
https://www.instagram.com/jefflindsay.ca/

Website:
https://www.jefflindsay.ca/

Sometimes it’s not all puppies and ice cream! A lot of the time, the bad is swept under the rug, and I forget that there is a not-so-pleasant face within this industry. The double-edged sword that is social media, can at times, over-romanticize and lead individuals to believe diving is a fairy tale land where all is amazing and wonderful. Rushed courses, asshole instructors, lack of standards, sexism, underpaid, and overworked. In this episode, I speak with Nikki, an instructor in Spain. It was a rocky start, but she persevered through to find the love of this sport that so many of us share. I sit down with her as she brings me through the ups and downs, founding Blue Fin Divers, Mi Moana, and her plans for the future to continue to create the change she wants to see. Please Enjoy.

Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/scubanikky/
https://www.instagram.com/bluefindivers.es/
https://www.instagram.com/__mimoana/

Website:
https://bluefindivers.com/
https://mimoana.org/

Coming from a family of divers made it natural for Ben McCallum to earn his first certification and eventually find himself in a professional role. Preferring the fun side, he took a step back and combined his love of diving with his love of photography. With a background as a commercial photographer, he applied his unique skill set to capturing moments underwater. This passion led Ben to establish Molausk and create the Quadball Lite, a strong, lightweight, and compact action camera dive handle, designed and built in Australia. The importance of lighting, his love of liveaboards, getting the shot right the first time, progression with underwater photography, and much more. Please enjoy.

Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/molausk/

Website:
https://molausk.com/

 “There might be something more to this” These were thoughts Yvonne Press had while she would enjoy holiday diving from time to time in the early days of her journey. What started as a way to keep up on skills, ended up with her progressing through to eventually owning and operating Dark Horizon Diving. Before settling into Malta, where she works in affiliation with Gozo Technical Diving, Yvonne spent time throughout Southeast Asia honing and mastering her craft. It was great to sit down with her and hear more about the early days, the challenges of making a full-time move into the industry, a few love-at-first-breath moments, the walls of Bunaken, becoming a KISS Sidewinder Instructor, and much more. Please enjoy. 

Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/yvonnepress/

Website:
https://darkhorizondiving.com/
https://kisssidewinder.pro/

YouTube:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCca6dklxao4M5IY4g94pUnA

Northern California has always held a place in my heart. I was born there, I have family there, I have roots there. Sadly, I have never explored the aquatic environment in the area, so I was excited to have a conversation with long-time native Ted Judah. Inspired by his father to become a diver, he eventually found his way to the underwater world. As it happens, Ted stepped away to raise a family. After an extended leave, Ted and his wife decided to rekindle the passion for the sport that brought them together. Early days of homemade wetsuits, local diving, volunteering at the California Academy of Sciences, surfing, but most of all, a message to get the dives in with the ones you love. Please enjoy!

Links:
https://www.inaturalist.org
https://calacademy.org
https://www.bodegabay.com
https://www.monterey.org

Email:
[email protected]

Every interview is a chance for me to learn and engage in fun conversations. For those that have been following the podcast, many of you know, I have been seeking advice and gaining knowledge on rebreathers. Speaking to Martin Splitt of Switzerland was no exception. Becoming certified in the Seychelles before continuing his path closer to home, it was great to hear his insights and thoughts about his journey. The benefits of learning from multiple instructors, going from Open Circuit to Closed, why he gravitated towards the Divesoft Liberty, and my reasons for choosing the Fathom Gemini. Please enjoy.

Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/the_splitti/

Website:
https://tauchenmitsplitti.ch/

Podcast:
https://open.spotify.com/show/087Wy8vimWknyqtSkXPOyI

Youtube:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJiwpzoexEK7aHUW7rOZbgQ

Most who participate in adventures beneath the surface would agree that every little bit helps when it comes to ocean conservation. Max Kushner earned a degree in Marine Science and is an active scuba instructor in Hawaii. Taking to social media, to inform, educate, and spread awareness about conservation efforts, he quickly gained an audience and has been using his platform for good. I sit down with Max to hear about his Open Water Certification in California, the process of earning a Marine Science Degree, local diving, shark conservation, becoming an instructor, and much more. Please enjoy! 

Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/maxconservation/
https://www.instagram.com/divewithbuddy/

Website:
https://linktr.ee/maxconservation

With a schedule always on the move, I was grateful to Patrick Widmann for taking the time to sit down and join the podcast. Taking me through his journey of personal growth, from humbling moments to moments of great achievement. It was great to hear more about his early days in the industry, what keeps him motivated, past mentors, finding new passions, the beginnings of ProTec Tulum, exploration, and much more. Please enjoy!

Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/patrick_widmann/

Website:
https://protecdivecenters.com/
https://www.xdeep.eu/
https://www.kissrebreathers.com/
https://www.sealdrysuits.eu/

Scuba diving is a sport but also at the end of the day, a business. In this episode, I sit down with Business Of Diving Institute Founder and Author, Darcy Kieran. I speak with him about his early days in the industry, the positives and negatives of owning a dive shop, the lack of data throughout the industry, advice for people getting into the business, why he founded the institute, and much more. Please enjoy.

Website:
https://www.businessofdiving.com/

Falling in love with the sport from the moment she took her first breath underwater, in Turkey while on vacation, Caroline Massie started progressing through the sport. In January of this year, I sat down with her as she was at home in Belgium to hear more about her journey through the sport. Cold water diving, technical diving, cave diving, rebreathers, international travel, and much more. Please enjoy.

Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/carolinex8x8/

Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/CarolineX8X8

Descent Technical Diving:
https://tecdiving-storms.webnode.be/

Divesoft:
https://www.divesoft.com/en

Xdeep:
https://www.xdeep.eu/

An episode full of laughs as I speak with April Weickert. The level of excitement she has for scuba diving is contagious. Scuba being the family business, it was only a matter of time before she would find herself taking breaths underwater. She tells me more about Torpedo Rays Scuba based within Nova Scotia, cold water diving, the local diving community, podcasting, “Jump In” The Series, and much more. Please enjoy.

Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/aprilweickert/
https://www.instagram.com/seafoxes_/

Website:
https://torpedorays.com/

Jump In!
Episodes 1-8 on YouTube

A couple of months ago, I had the great pleasure of having a conversation with Megan Hassa. Leaving Michigan for Hawaii to pursue marine biology, she became a free diver and eventually a Scuba Diver. I speak to her about her journey as she found her confidence and passion for photography, recent travels, goals for the future, finding a community, and much more. Please enjoy.

Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/meganhassa/

Website:
https://www.meganhassa.com/

While on sabbatical from work, Stephen Aynsley went backpacking through Australia, and this is where he became introduced to the sport of scuba diving. After a few years, he would find himself working full-time in the industry. As he progressed through the sport, he would find himself in many locations throughout the world gaining experience. In this episode, I chat with Stephen about his path through the industry, creating and mentoring instructors, travel experiences, a quick conversation about Colorado, and much more. Please enjoy.

Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/stephenjaynsley/

Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/AskAynsley/

It was an honor to welcome back Jami Leslie Feldman to the podcast. Late last year she participated in a Round Table discussion about Photography. In this episode, I get a chance to catch up with her and hear more about her journey into the aquatic environment, her love of photography, some tips and tricks, capturing images of high-profile, prominent creatures with the work she does as The Underwater Paparazzi, and much more. Please enjoy.

Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/underwaterpaparazzi/
https://www.instagram.com/abovewaterpaparazzi/

Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/uwpaparazzi

Website:
https://underwaterpaparazzi.com/

There is always an ongoing list of must-reads that I have compiled over the years since I started my journey into the underwater world. I am sure if you ask most divers, without skipping a beat, they could name at least three or four. I would be willing to bet that on the top of most lists would be Close Calls by Stratis Kas. It was an amazing opportunity to sit down with him and hear his thoughts, insights, future projects, and much more. Please enjoy.

Proudly Supported by:

DTEK DRYSUITS: 
https://www.instagram.com/dtekgroup/
K01:
https://www.instagram.com/k01diving/
KISS REBREATHERS:
https://www.instagram.com/kissrebreathers/
D-LUXE DIVE GEAR:
https://www.instagram.com/dluxe_dive_gear/

Website:
https://stratiskas.com/

Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/stratiskas_adventures/

Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/stratiskasadventures/

You might know her as the Underwater Panda, you might know her for her underwater photography, or you might know her as technical diver Anastasia Schmuck. One of my first interviews this year was full of laughter and good times as I had the chance to sit down with her and hear more about her journey through the sport. Training with Global Underwater Explorers, underwater photography, plans for the future, how she became known as the Underwater Panda, and much more. Please enjoy.

Website:
https://anastasiaschmuck.com/

Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/theunderwaterpanda/

Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/anstasiphoto

I am not sure when I first heard about Human Factors in Diving. What I am sure of, is it was something I knew I needed to learn more about. In this episode, I speak with Gareth Lock, founder of The Human Diver. With a background in military aviation, he noticed a lack of human factors training within the diving industry, along with its resistance to incorporating it. He has made it his mission to change this. Please enjoy.

https://www.thehumandiver.com/

Podcast:
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/counter-errorism-in-diving-applying-human-factors-to/id1708755394

YouTube:
https://www.youtube.com/c/TheHumanDiver

Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/184882365201810

Articles by Gareth Lock:
https://www.thehumandiver.com/blog/human-factors-in-diving-what-it-is-what-it-isn-t-why-you-need-to-know

https://indepthmag.com/learning-culture-in-the-diving-industry/

https://indepthmag.com/compliance-provides-an-illusion-of-safety-in-diving/

https://www.thehumandiver.com/blog/the-value-of-loops-for-learning-don-t-just-fix-the-diver

https://www.thehumandiver.com/blog/risks-decisions-lessons

In this episode, I sit down with Mike Mason, a Human Factors in Diving Instructor located in Australia. I first met Mike when I contacted him to enroll in the Level 1 course, a 10-week webinar series from HFiD. Along with his work with the Human Diver, Mike is an active DM, a rebreather diver, and works with the Australian Air Force. I speak with Mike more about HFiD, his previous diving experiences, challenges going between open-circuit and closed, and much more. Please enjoy!

Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/184882365201810/
https://www.instagram.com/thehumandiveraustralia/

The Human Diver:
https://www.thehumandiver.com/meet-the-team

Email:
[email protected]

From a very early age, Neal Pollock knew he wanted to be a diver. Having developed a love for the aquatic environment, it was only natural for him to find his way to diving. A love for teaching was discovered through his aquatic hobbies. This has developed into a distinguished career, having participated in multiple studies all over the world. It was amazing to have Neil back on the podcast to hear about some of his most memorable moments underwater, public speaking, ice diving, and much more. Please enjoy.

Articles by Neal  W. Pollock, PhD:
https://indepthmag.com/what-is-undeserved-in-undeserved-decompression-sickness/

https://indepthmag.com/the-risk-and-management-of-record-chasing/

https://indepthmag.com/will-open-circuit-tech-diving-go-the-way-of-the-dinosaur/

It can be a daunting task to decide where to go on your next diving adventure, especially when it comes to Latin America. I was excited to sit down and chat with Melanie and Kathleen, co-founders of Dive The Americas, a boutique travel company offering a more personalized diving adventure. Different destinations throughout the Americas, liveaboards, building friendships, custom diving trips, The Galapagos, The Cocos, and much more. Please enjoy.

Website:
https://divetheamericas.com/

Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/divetheamericas/

In October of 2023, I participated in a Fundamentals Course with Global Underwater Explorers. I had many ideas of what I thought this course would be. I had many misconceptions going in, and the goal of this series is to highlight the misconceptions one might have about GUE and their standard of training. I sit down and speak with five instructors across the globe to hear their stories and gain some insight into this agency whose approach “Begins with the end in mind”.

In the final episode of this series, I sit down and speak with Jon Kieren. I was able to catch Jon before he moved back to Cave Country in the state of Florida. In his early twenties, a snowstorm pushed him in the direction of the Virgin Islands, which kicked off his diving career. Throughout his career, he has held many positions and has emerged as a true leader in his field. Someone who is not afraid to speak his mind about his frustrations with the industry or personal challenges he has faced. Decisions that led him to change his path, seeking and creating a higher standard, more misconceptions, and some unexpected reactions for speaking up. Please enjoy.


Website:
GUE Instructor Resumé: Jon Kieren

https://www.gue.com/

https://www.kierentechnical.com/

Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/kieren38

Articles by Jon Kieren:
https://indepthmag.com/why-i-became-a-gue-instructor/
https://indepthmag.com/i-trained-doc-deep/
https://indepthmag.com/fathom-ccr/
https://indepthmag.com/sump-potion-9/

In October of 2023, I participated in a Fundamentals Course with Global Underwater Explorers. I had many ideas of what I thought this course would be. I had many misconceptions going in, and the goal of this series is to highlight the misconceptions one might have about GUE and their standard of training. I sit down and speak with five instructors across the globe to hear their stories and gain some insight into this agency whose approach “Begins with the end in mind”.

For some, diving becomes more than a hobby, it becomes a lifelong passion. Jordan Allured first became certified when he was ten years old and he has been chasing breaths underwater ever since. I sit down and speak with Jordan about his progression through the sport which eventually led him to teaching with Global Underwater Explorers. The wide range of diving conditions in the UK, shipwrecks of the UK, advice on drysuits, why he chose to pursue a path with GUE, and some misconceptions one might have about GUE training and their standards. Please Enjoy.

Website:
GUE Instructor Resumé: Jordan Allured

https://www.gue.com/

Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/j.a_technicaldiving/

In October of 2023, I participated in a Fundamentals Course with Global Underwater Explorers. I had many ideas of what I thought this course would be. I had many misconceptions going in, and the goal of this series is to highlight the misconceptions one might have about GUE and their standard of training. I sit down and speak with five instructors across the globe to hear their stories and gain some insight into this agency whose approach “Begins with the end in mind”.

In the next episode of this series, I speak with GUE instructor Annika Persson. Originally from Sweden but relocated to Norway, but now spends as much time as possible chasing her love of cave diving in Mexico. She first got a taste for teaching in Australia as a research assistant and eventually became a diving instructor. From her first breath underwater in the Mediterranean, her pathway through Global Underwater Explorers, connections made through the years, and more misconceptions about training. Please enjoy.

Website:
GUE Instructor Resumé: Annika Persson

https://www.gue.com/

https://www.annikapersson.com/

Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/annika_gue_instructor/

Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/AnnikaGUEInstructor

 In October of 2023, I participated in a Fundamentals Course with Global Underwater Explorers. I had many ideas of what I thought this course would be. I had many misconceptions going in, and the goal of this series is to highlight the misconceptions one might have about GUE and their standard of training. I sit down and speak with five instructors across the globe to hear their stories and gain some insight into this agency whose approach “Begins with the end in mind”.

Most of my growing up was in New Hampshire, so it’s always nice to speak with a fellow New Englander. I had a wicked good time sitting down with Meredith “Mer” Tanguay and hearing about her journey through the sport. The cold and demanding diving environment of the North East pushed her to seek a higher level of training, which led her to a Fundies course in 2003. In this episode, we speak about the early days of GUE, her pathway to becoming an instructor, Wet Rocks Diving, Recreational Training with GUE, and some common misconceptions about training with Global Underwater Explorers. Please enjoy.

Website:
GUE Instructor Resumé: Meredith "Mer" Tanguay

https://www.gue.com/

https://www.wetrocksdiving.com/

In October of 2023, I participated in a Fundamentals Course with Global Underwater Explorers. I had many ideas of what I thought this course would be. I had many misconceptions going in, and the goal of this series is to highlight the misconceptions one might have about GUE and their standard of training. I sit down and speak with five instructors across the globe to hear their stories and gain some insight into this agency whose approach “Begins with the end in mind”.

In this first of a five-episode series, I interview Gemma Thomas. An Instructor Evaluator and Recreational Administrator for GUE, who is based out of Singapore. I spoke with Gemma before she headed out to the Global Underwater Explorers 25th Anniversary Conference. I first met Gemma when I contacted her to enroll in a Fundamentals course. I sit down with her as she tells me how she first became certified in diving after moving to South East Asia, her pathway through the agency, the benefits of taking a fundies course, and some misconceptions about GUE training. Please enjoy.

Website:
GUE Instructor Resumé: Gemma Thomas

https://www.gue.com/

Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/boss_gemmama/

When did it sink? How did it sink? Where was it built?  When was it built? Were lives lost? Behind every unidentified shipwreck is a story waiting to be told. In this episode, I speak with Callum Girvan and Alex Aberle-Leeming, two members of WreckSploration. A team of divers based out of Western Australia with a goal, to explore, preserve, educate, and promote a culture of safety in the technical diving community. I speak with them about photogrammetry, The abundance of shipwrecks around Perth, the process of identifying a wreck, the importance of creating a role model behavior with their local diving community, their work with Human Factors in Diving, and much more. Please enjoy!

Website:
https://wrecksploration.au/

Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/wrecksploration/

Human Factors in Diving:
https://www.thehumandiver.com/

Just before Christmas of last year, I had a chance to sit down and speak with Brett Eldridge, a technical wreck diver based in Southern California. After years of enjoying recreational diving, Brett found his way into the technical world and eventually found his love for deep wrecks. I spoke with Brett about his journey as a diver, his blog Wrecked in My rEvo, photogrammetry, rebreathers, and the dive that led him to write the article “Close Call on the IJN Sata. This is a must-read for anyone who is thinking about or currently participating in technical wreck diving. Please enjoy.


Article:
Close Call on the IJN Sata

Blog:
https://wreckedinmyrevo.com/

Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/secondelementdiving/

What started as a family activity soon turned into a passion for Scott RG. As one who always welcomes a challenge, technical and overhead diving soon came into his sights. Relaxation and meditation are some of the words he uses when describing his time in the overhead environment. I sit down with Scott and speak with him about his motivation for exploring, the importance of taking your time, his love of the KISS Sidewinder, the Mines of Scotland, cold water diving, solo diving, and much more. Please enjoy.

Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/scottrg.1/

Facebook:
Scott RG

Youtube:
https://www.youtube.com/@scottrg.cavelineproductions

I have always had a fascination with history. As a kid, watching movies or reading stories about past events is something that has always piqued my interest. Late last year, I had the opportunity to speak with Adventure Historian, Jeff Maynard, Through Jeff's writings, he brings diving history to life with titles such as Divers in Time: Australia’s Untold History, Niagara's Gold, and The Frontier Below: The Past Present, and Future of Our Quest to Go Deeper Underwater. We speak about his adventures to uncover history, his thoughts on writer's block, advice for up-and-coming writers, and much more. Please enjoy.

Website:
https://www.jeffmaynard.net/

YouTube:
https://www.youtube.com/@jeffmaynardadventurehistorian

After graduating with a degree in journalism Eric Douglas found himself enrolling in a scuba course. Like most people at the start of their scuba career, he had no idea the opportunities and memories that would be created. Countless articles across multiple publications, Author of the Mike Scott Thriller novels, a career in journalism that has brought him all over the world, his writing process, advice for future writers, and much more. Please enjoy as I sit down with Eric and hear his story.

Website:
https://www.booksbyeric.com/

Regardless of the depth, whether five meters or fifty meters, there is always a level of risk when it comes to scuba diving. The question is, how, as individuals, are we assessing and evaluating these situations? What steps can we take to improve and mitigate? In the aftermath of an incident, how do we create a community where an individual feels empowered to speak about the experience? Why have we created an environment where someone is reluctant, scared, or ashamed to speak about an accident?

In this Round Table Discussion about Risk Management and Accident Analysis, I speak with Grant Tobin, Dr. Neal Pollock, Charlie Roberson, and Gareth Lock. 

Special guest appearance by Dr. Richard Harris.

Please enjoy!

Article by Jenny Lord:
Who is responsible for change? 

Grant Tobin
https://www.instagram.com/baetobin/
https://www.mwue.org/

Gareth Lock
https://www.thehumandiver.com/
https://www.instagram.com/thehumandiver/

Charlie Roberson
https://www.fathomdive.com/
https://sites.google.com/view/karstunderwater/home

Neal Pollock
https://www.facebook.com/neal.pollock.92

Richard Harris
https://realriskpodcast.com/
https://www.instagram.com/richard.harris_/

One thing I love about this industry is seeing people branch out and create their own paths. It's not always the easiest but the rewards can be fulfilling. As someone who has started something from nothing, I was excited to chat with Blake Baker. Taking his first breaths in the land-locked state of Indiana before relocating to Florida to start A-List Divers. A premier diving business offering a unique diving experience. We sit and discuss ways to grow, finding an audience, Florida diving, challenges faced along the way, and much more. Please enjoy!

Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/alistdivers/

Stepping back from corporate life, Ellie Hudson decided to pursue her passion for scuba diving. A sport that has built her self-confidence, where dive buddies are family, and a place where she continues to grow. Continuing to further her education in diving, she never forgets to bring up the community around her, creating an environment where nobody feels inadequate. Podcast host, ambassador, content creator, community leader, and just down-to-earth human being who enjoys scuba diving. This is Ellie and this is her story. Please enjoy!

Website:
https://linktr.ee/scubaellie

Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/scubaellie/

Links:
https://www.girlsthatscuba.com/girls-talk-scuba-podcast/
https://www.daneurope.org/en/home
https://avatarsuits.com/
https://www.reeldiving.se/
https://coralcatch.org/

Each person’s journey through this sport varies from one person to the next. For some, it is an easy transition, for others, it's about overcoming fear. Smita Jairam did not let her fear of deep water overtake her and it’s amazing to hear about her journey. From open circuit to closed circuit, the rewarding feeling of conservation work, Malaysia’s must-go-to spots for diving, advice for overcoming fear, and much more. Please enjoy!

Tropical Research And Conservation Centre
https://tracc.org/

I am always excited to highlight conservation on the podcast. Especially when it comes to turtles. If you know me, you know I am a fan of turtles. In this episode, I interview Ginny and Seh Ling from Lang Tengah Turtle Watch located off the east coast of Peninsular Malaysia. I speak to them about day-to-day operations, conservation efforts, typical days off, and much more. Please enjoy!

Website:
https://www.langtengahturtlewatch.org/

Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/lang_tengah_turtle_watch/
https://www.instagram.com/ginnycheok/
https://www.instagram.com/lsehling/

Nitrox. Mixed gas. Decompression Diving. Technical Diving. Most divers are familiar with these words and practices as they are very common in today's world of scuba diving. Years ago, just whispering these terms, you could find yourself banished from certain circles within the greater scuba community. Mike Gault is no stranger to these times. A few months back, I had a chance to catch up with my good friend Mike to hear about these challenging times. Difficulties in finding a nitrox certification, being introduced to a new emerging method of diving called DIR, risks of technical diving, exploring Texas caves, and much more. Please enjoy!

Website:
https://www.ctxscuba.com/

https://goodenoughsprings.org/gsep-wp/

 At an early age, Grant Tobin was adopted into the Florida cave diving community. Learning the ways of the cave early on, shaped him into the diver he is today. An active member of the Midwest Underwater Explorers, a volunteer of the Wisconsin Historical Society’s Maritime Preservation and Archaeology Program, and he continues to find his way back to the Sunshine State to enjoy the overhead environment. In this episode, I speak with Grant about why he switched from the KISS Sidewinder to the Fathom Gemini, Sidemount vs Backmount rebreathers, advice for divers seeking overhead training, and much more. Please enjoy!

**Grant did amend that a few current rebreathers do in fact ship stock with oxygen shutoff valves**

Midwest Underwater Explorers
https://www.mwue.org/
Karst Underwater Research
https://sites.google.com/view/karstunderwater/home
Wisconsin Marine Historical Society
https://www.facebook.com/WisconsinMarineHistoricalSociety/
Article by Grant Tobin
mCCR Face-Off: Gemini vs Sidewinder - InDepth (gue.com)

On today’s episode, I speak with Kurt Storms. A technical and rebreather instructor out of Belgium. I was able to catch Kurt before he traveled to Malta for the 3rd Annual Divesoft Liberty Summit. A family holiday as he explains it. I reached out to Kurt after seeing his photography work and he was kind enough to come onto the podcast for an interview. He tells me about finding and exploring mines, U/W photography, some challenges of traveling with a rebreather, and why he gravitated toward the Divesoft Liberty. Please enjoy.

Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/kurt_storms_photography/

Website:
http://www.kurtstorms.com/

DIVESOFT:
https://www.divesoft.com/en/ambassadors/kurtstorms

I am super excited to introduce this next Round Table, this group had me in tears I was laughing so much. Joanna Wyrebek, Sara Banderby, and Sanne Volja make up The Cavettes. A group of technical divers with a goal to empower other women in diving. They sit down and tell me about how the group was formed, their expeditions, some challenges they have faced, and much more. Let me say they did not hold anything back and hands down this was one of my favorite episodes to record. Please enjoy.

Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/the.cavettes/

Joanna Wyrebek:
https://www.instagram.com/girlthatccr/

Sara Banderby:
https://www.instagram.com/sarabanderby/

Sanne Volja:
https://www.instagram.com/tecdivesanne/

As you find yourself at the end of the cavern zone you will be greeted with a sign that reads STOP; PREVENT YOUR DEATH! GO NO FARTHER. Most divers see this warning and will never travel beyond this point. My next guest is not like most divers. She saw this sign and wanted to know what needed to be done to go beyond this picture of the Grim Reaper. In this episode, I speak with Sara Banderby. Finding her way into overhead environments, a history lesson on the Baltic Sea, the benefits of rebreather diving, the joy she finds in creating new divers, and much more. Please Enjoy.

Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/sarabanderby/

Website:
https://www.diveinpeace.se/

Today on the Round Table, I sit down with this accomplished group of underwater photographers and hear their thoughts about capturing images within the underwater world. Join me along with Hannah Tilley, Kate Jonker, Annie Crawley, and Jami Leslie Feldman. I hope you enjoy.

If you are enjoying the show, please leave a review on your podcast listening platform. If you are really enjoying the show, share your favorite episode with family and friends.

Annie Crawley:
https://www.anniecrawley.com/
https://www.instagram.com/anniecrawley_oceanannie/
http://www.youtube.com/AnnieCrawley

Hannah Tilley:
https://linkin.bio/ilovenudis
https://www.instagram.com/ilovenudis/

Jami Leslie Feldman:
https://underwaterpaparazzi.com/
https://www.instagram.com/underwaterpaparazzi/

Kate Jonker:
https://katejonker.com/
https://www.instagram.com/katejonkerphotography/
https://www.instagram.com/kate_underwaterphotocoach/

My next guest always had a fascination with the ocean. When she had the opportunity, she became certified and it led her down a path to becoming an ocean warrior. In this episode, I speak with Wendy Mitchell. She tells me about her journey that has brought her to some of the most beautiful and remote dive destinations in the world, her goal to document and protect the underwater world, and some amazing times she has had as she continues to add nautical miles to her sailing adventures. Please Enjoy.

Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/wendys.underwater.world/

Website:
https://www.wendymitchellphoto.com/

At some point, most divers will come across New Zealand physician and scientist, Dr. Simon Mitchell. In the slim chance you have not heard of him, do yourself a favor, find your way to a computer, conduct a Google search, and I guarantee you will learn a thing or two. In the meantime, enjoy this interview as I sit down and get to know one of the most respected divers on the planet.

In this episode, I speak with Ichthyology research specialist Brian Greene. Growing up in Kwajalein Atoll in the Republic of the Marshall Islands, Brian learned to dive at a very young age. When he was just nine years old he came across the book Micronesian Reef Fishes and from that point on he made it a mission to find every fish he could. The Bishop Museum, challenges of remote expeditions, advice for up-and-coming ichthyologists, and much more. I hope you enjoy.  

Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/thedeepgreene/

Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/brian.greene.1610

Bishop Museum:
https://www.bishopmuseum.org/

A few months back I conducted some interviews on solo diving. I reached out to ScubaBoard to find guests to speak with. Andrew known as MB NZ on the platform was happy to participate. Originally scheduled as a group discussion turned into a one-on-one interview due to scheduling conflicts with the other members. In this interview, I speak with Andrew and hear his thoughts on solo diving.

As with any diving, if you should choose to partake in this method of diving, please seek out proper training, and always dive within your training and comfort level. Safe diving.

https://scubaboard.com/

ScubaBoard Member:
MB NZ

In this episode, I interview Terry Irvine. During his Open Water course in the snowy Canadian weather, he was instantly drawn to what he refers to as the magic that happens underwater. The deep wrecks of The Great Lakes led him to pursue technical and overhead training. We speak about his passion for wreck diving, the discovery of Canadian Pacific Railway Locomotive 694 which crashed on June 10th, 1910, and how he enjoys the simple magical moments underwater. Please enjoy.

Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/terry.irvine.927
Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/terry.irvine1/
CPR Locomotive 694 wreck:
https://youtu.be/cXk-oAqgbtw?si=hV42FFC1cppE0SIX
Gunilda wreck:
https://youtu.be/02bOlUC1nxQ?si=xYMxdkwU2Br-rhQ_

In October of this year, the dive community lost one of its biggest ambassadors. For a brief moment on August 10th, 2023, I had the amazing privilege to sit down with Brett and hear his story.

Foreword by Dr. Andrew Pitkin.

Brett B Hemphill 1967-2023

When most divers sign up for that next course, we have high hopes, and usually, expectations are met. Unfortunately, this is not always the case. Sometimes, we as students leave disappointed and frustrated at our own lack of ability to meet all the standards and requirements, and sometimes it's completely out of our control and falls on those in charge of the course. I'll be the first to say that I have made mistakes as an instructor and things do not always go to plan. As an instructor, the highest priority is always safety. I feel that creating an environment to learn and master skills but also leaving students with a great experience is equally important. Once again this is not always the case.

In this interview, I speak with Josh. After a disappointing course out of his control, Josh took to ScubaBoard to speak about his frustrations with his recent experience. In classic ScubaBoard fashion, the masses came out and this now-closed thread became a heated discussion with some of the usual characters and many more weighing in and giving their thoughts and opinions. I reached out to Josh to see if he would be interested in coming onto the show to speak about his experience.

It's not always easy for a student to speak out about a bad experience after a class. So I want to send a big thank you to Josh for agreeing to come onto the podcast.

ScubaBoard:
Advanced Open Water Disappointment

During my trip to Ceningan earlier this year I met Alissa. She completed her Advanced Open Water during our time there and I wanted to know more of her story. In this episode, she speaks about her Open Water experience, how the peaceful and quiet atmosphere of the underwater world brings her joy, how she learns to find comfort and adapt to different situations in less-than-optimal environments that arise while scuba diving, and some future destinations she would like to visit. I hope you enjoy

One day while scrolling through the wonderful world of Instagram, I came across my next guest's profile. Videos of sea turtles, eagle rays, and other various creatures of the underwater world. I reached out to Matt to see if he would be interested in coming onto the podcast for an interview. He tells me his story of how he ended up in Australia on a working visa, his time at Heron Island, and he gives me some tips on the tedious task of editing underwater videos. Please enjoy.

Instagram:
@matt.above

There is a very active diving scene in Central Texas. This is where I first became certified, and have lost count of the number of times I have been underwater in Lake Travis located in Austin Texas.

In this week's episode, I interview Dawson. I can easily, without a doubt say that he is one of the most active members of the diving community in this area. I first met Dawson when I was working at one of the local shops and he has always been a huge inspiration to me in my diving. Constantly seeing him progress and learn as much as possible and never slowing down. I am excited to share his story and I hope you enjoy.

Instagram:
@geauxscuba

Let's face it, the world has no shortage of assholes, and the scuba industry is no exception. I am sure you know one or two. Maybe you’ll run into one this weekend on the dive boat. Maybe, you narrowly escaped an encounter last week at the dive site.

In this Round Table, I sit down with Rosa, Sarah, and Olivia and discuss Toxicity in the scuba industry. Please enjoy! 

Are you enjoying the Round Tables as much as me? Do you have any suggestions for topics you would like to hear? Would you like to be a part of a Round Table Discussion? Reach out and let me know.

Instagram:
Sarah: @azul.unlimited
Rosa: @rosamancebo1
Olivia: @fullysubmergedscuba

In this episode, I speak with Explorer and founder of Sulawesi Dive Trek Robin Cuesta. Robin is at the forefront of cave exploration around Indonesia. We speak about getting in the right mindset before a dive, the logistic difficulties of remote exploration, current projects, what to look for in teammates, the path that led him to open the first full cave dive center in Indonesia, and the relaxed, slow-paced, lifestyle in South-East Sulawesi. Please enjoy.

Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/diving_robin/

Website:
https://www.sulawesidivetrek.com/

On today's show, I sit down and have a conversation with Jarrod Jablonski. An aquatic lover from a very young age, learning to swim before he could walk, It was only natural for him to find his way to the underwater world. His drive for exploration led him to create a new standard with Global Underwater Explorers. Conservation, underwater caves, Deep Dive Dubai, and much more in this episode of Off Gassing: A Scuba Podcast 

Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/jarrodjablonski/
https://www.instagram.com/guehq/
https://www.instagram.com/deepdivedubai/

Website:
https://www.gue.com/
https://deepdivedubai.com/

In this Round Table discussion, I bring together journalists Ashley Stewart, Michael Menduno, David Strike, and Eric Douglas to have a conversation and hear their thoughts about Scuba Journalism.

How are you keeping up-to-date on the latest scuba news? What piques your interest and keeps you engaged to the end? What would you like to see more of? What would you like to see less of? Leave a comment and let me know and most of all, I hope you enjoy this Round Table episode. 

I am willing to make a bet you can guess what magazine my next guest started. Micheal Menduno known by many as M2 has had quite the impact in the scuba diving world. Have you heard of Technical Diving? In this episode, I get a chance to sit down with Micheal and hear about his exit from the tech world to becoming one of the most well-known diving journalists of our time, how his curiosity of the deep helped him create a meeting place for early technical divers to share their stories and exchange ideas and his current role as co-founder and editor-in-chief of InDepth. THE online Scuba Diving Magazine

Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/m2bass/
https://www.instagram.com/indepthmagazine/

Website:
https://gue.com/blog/
https://www.gue.com/

With a long-established career in many aspects of diving, David 'Strikey' Strike was someone I knew I had to have on the show. It was a great honor to sit down and hear about David’s long history within the diving world. From military diving to commercial diving, recreational to technical, and author to media organizer. Please sit back and enjoy my interview with David 'Strikey' Strike.

I first met Thomas while working at Dive World Austin in Central Texas. It was apparent that he had been bitten by the scuba bug, so naturally, we became fast friends. Since starting this podcast he has been one of my biggest supporters and I feel privileged to share his story. In this episode we speak about, Circle H Scuba, finding your local diving, advertising improvements, the joy of teaching, and much more. I hope you enjoy.

Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/circlehscuba/

Website:
https://linktr.ee/circlehscuba

Youtube:
https://www.youtube.com/@CircleHScuba

Graceful, quiet, peaceful, free. I feel many Scuba divers are often drawn to many aspects of Freediving. The self-discipline needed to travel into the underwater world with nothing but a breath-hold is absolutely intriguing. In this episode, I speak with Swen, a freediving instructor based out of Malaysia. We speak about why he gravitated to the sport, starting a Freediving center, some tips for beginners, and much more, I hope you enjoy.

Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/onebreath_swen/
https://www.instagram.com/sb_photographhy/
https://www.instagram.com/freedivingadventuremalaysia/

Website:
https://www.freedivingadventuremalaysia.com/

During our stay at Cenigan, we attended a Manta presentation conducted by members of The Marine Megafauna Foundation. A non-profit with a focus on protecting the most endangered ocean giants and the habitats they call home. In this episode, I speak with Janis, a project leader, and Raina a student completing an internship. We speak about what led them into the underwater world, the work of the foundation, some facts about mantas, why citizen science is so important, and what you can do to help! Enjoy!

Please consider making a donation to this wonderful organization. Every little bit helps You can show your support at MarineMegaFauna.org. You can also find a link in the episode description. Let's help these ocean giants out. Dr Evil will be very grateful!!

Instagram:
@janisargeswara
@alvira_oneandonly
@marinemegafauna

Website:
https://marinemegafauna.org/

I am really excited to bring you this next episode of the Ceningan Series. Over the course of my stay at Ceningan Resort, We had an amazing time getting to know the different staff members. Of course, I had the microphones ready to capture their story so I could share it with you. Please give it a listen and I hope you enjoy.

Website:
https://ceningandivers.com/

Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/ceningandivers/
https://www.instagram.com/mineunderwater/
https://www.instagram.com/fransen_ms/
https://www.instagram.com/moorishidel/
https://www.instagram.com/divewithangga/
https://www.instagram.com/wisnutejakusuma/
https://www.instagram.com/exotec___/

As we become divers, most of us are reminded of how important the oceans are. The need to protect and care for all the wonderful life within it. Not only for us but for future generations. In this episode, I speak with Lew, a diver from the southern coast of South Africa with a background deep in conservation. I met Lew as he was starting his role as operations manager at Ceningan Resort. He takes me through his journey to exotic places, his work in conservation, making the most out of opportunities, and gives some advice for divers looking at getting into ocean conservation. Enjoy!

Instagram:
@saltyseagull

In July of this year, we visited the beautiful Nusa Ceningan located between Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Penida. A week of island life was just what the doctor ordered. Here, we discovered Ceningan Divers, an eco-friendly dive resort located just 500 meters over the world-famous Yellow Bridge connecting Lembongan to Ceningan. Cliff-jumping, surfing, zip-lines, and plenty of other activities can be enjoyed while in this picturesque tropical environment. We came for the diving. Mantas, molas, turtles, bamboo sharks, the terrifying titan triggerfish, and plenty of vibrant healthy coral are just a short list of things to see underwater. Another aspect of traveling I love; is the people you meet and the friendships you make. Of course, I had to bring my microphones and capture some of their journey. Kez, the mola whisperer, Lew, the conservationist from South Africa, the wonderful staff keeping the day-to-day operations going, and Janis and Raina, members of the Marine Megafauna Foundation. I hope you enjoy this short four-episode series brought to you by Off Gassing: A Scuba Podcast.

Reviews go a long way, so please, if you are enjoying the show, hit that 5-star review or type up a few words and let me know your thoughts. If you have an idea, want to collaborate, or just want to reach out and say hello. Please do so. You can contact me through email, [email protected] but most of all, I hope you enjoy the show

Instagram:
@ceningandivers

Website:
https://ceningandivers.com/

Gearing up for our second dive of the day at the well-known Crystal Bay dive site, our dive guide turns to us and says, Prepare to meet the Mola Mola. Sure enough, as we passed 25 meters, a cold wave of water hit us and off in the distance, the most famous ocean sunfish graced us with their presence. In this episode, I speak with Kez, The Mola Whisperer. From Jakarta to different destinations in the world before arriving in Ceningan to further her conservation work, teach, and guide divers in one of the most beautiful dive destinations in the world. I hope you enjoy this first episode of the Ceningan Series!

Instagram:
@keziamukti

In this Round Table episode, I sit back and listen to some of the biggest pioneers in the industry speaking about the future of Open Circuit Mixed Gas and Rebreather diving. 

Is there a future for Open Circuit Mixed Gas or is it yesterday's news? Are dual rebreathers becoming the standard for future explorations? Is it time for a new Blueprint for Survival?

Join me with guests Richard Pyle, Brian Greene, Bill Stone, Charlie Roberson, and Simon Mitchell in this historic Round Table Discussion. I hope you enjoy.

It really does not take long for most divers to discover the wonderful, unique, and strange world of Nudis! Which one is your favorite?? In this episode, I speak with Hannah, a diver from Edmonds, Washington in the beautiful Pacific Northwest. Hannah’s goal is to make nudis a household name and I am more than happy to promote this cause. Why? Because who doesn’t like Nudis. Diving in The Puget Sound, flooded housings, and the wonderful, unique, and strange world of Nudis! I hope you enjoy.

I apologize that the photo contest is over, but you can always  #Nudipics and share your photo with Hannah. More contests in the future so stay tuned and give her a follow.

Instagram:
@ilovenudis
Website:
I LOVE NUDIS
YouTube:
I LOVE NUDIS
TikTok:
https://www.tiktok.com/@ilovenudis
Pinterest:
https://www.pinterest.com/ilovenudis/
Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/ilovenudis/

In 2018 during my first trip through Indonesia, some last-minute changes in plans landed me in what would become one of my favorite places on earth. Bunaken Island in North Sulawesi.

This is where I met Rosa, at the time, she was a Divemaster in training and was my dive guide for the week. I stayed in touch with Rosa and followed her travels around the world and her journey as she moved through the ranks and is now a staff instructor. In this episode, I am excited to share her story. Enjoy!

Instagram:
@rosaunderwater
@rosamancebo1

The level of excitement and energy that radiates from my next guest when speaking about diving is extremely contagious. In this episode, I speak with Jo Jo. A technical Diver from Poland who now lives in the UK. We speak about her path into rebreathers, her love of The Baltic Sea, wreck diving, The Cavettes, and some advice for those moving through the ranks. Oh, and I can’t forget to mention her love of dry suits. Enjoy!

Instagram:
@girlthatccr
@the.cavettes

Website:
Ghost Ships

Primarily underwater photography of shipwrecks and caves. If you’re looking for pictures of fish or coral you’re in the wrong place. These are the words written as I scroll through my next guest's profile. Images that bring us into the past, images that let us view where few have explored, and images of extreme environments. In this episode I speak with Jeff Lindsey, We discuss our love of Malaysian cuisine, underwater photography, technical diving, shipwrecks, and much more. Enjoy.

Instagram:
@jefflindsay.ca

Website:
https://www.jefflindsay.ca/

In this week's episode, I interview Bjorn Loftis, A technical instructor who began teaching in Missouri before relocating to the Lone Star State. I speak with Bjorn about his journey to becoming a scuba instructor, Missouri Caves, Florida Caves, Adaptive Scuba, and the friendships he has made over the years. I hope you enjoy.

Website:
https://adapt-ablefoundation.org/
https://www.facebook.com/bjornloftisdiving

It's always a great pleasure to meet an instructor who never stops being a student. On this week's episode, I sit down with Kevin Wood. A UTD instructor with a drive that keeps him searching for more knowledge. From his first experience underwater to his journey into overhead environments, Kevin's goal is to continually learn so he can provide his students with a better foundation to be successful in any underwater environment they choose to pursue. Enjoy. 

Website:

https://utdscubadiving.com/member/kevin-wood/

On this week's episode, I interview James Mott, a Michigan native and Unified Team Diving instructor. As many of you know, James co-hosts The Great Dive Podcast, one of the most successful scuba diving podcasts. We discuss his journey as a diver, the massive scale of The Great Lakes, ice diving, and of course, I get advice on Scuba Podcasting. Enjoy!

Website:
https://www.greatlakeslove.org/
https://www.thegreatdivepodcast.com/
https://mottunderwater.com/
https://utdscubadiving.com/member/james-mott/

Instagram:
@jamesianmott

Joining The Round Table this week are guests Jill Heinerth, Mel Briscoe, James Mott, and Mike Gault. I sit down with this amazing group of divers and hear their thoughts about solo diving.

Jill Heinerth:
More people have walked on the moon than visited many of the places Jill Heinerth has explored on Earth. From the most dangerous technical dives deep inside underwater caves to swimming through giant Antarctic icebergs, Heinerth has been the hands and eyes of climatologists, archaeologists, biologists, and engineers worldwide. She was named the first Explorer-in-Residence of The Royal Canadian Geographical Society and the inaugural recipient of the Sir Christopher Ondaatje Medal for Exploration. Jill is a Fellow of the International Scuba Diving Hall of Fame, Underwater Academy of Arts and Sciences, Women Diver’s Hall of Fame, National Speleological Society, WINGS WorldQuest, and the Explorers Club, which recognized her work with the prestigious William Beebe Award for ocean exploration. The Wall Street Journal, Oprah Magazine, and the New York Times have lauded Jill’s best-selling memoir Into the Planet. Dolly Parton selected Jill’s book, The Aquanaut, for her Imagination Library program. Running Cloud Productions of Australia is currently filming a feature documentary that will be released in 2024.

Mel Briscoe:
Mel Briscoe is a professional oceanographer (retired), has dived and taught all over the world, and has taught nearly all recreational scuba subjects and levels, and many tech levels. He especially enjoys teaching certified divers new skills and new ways to appreciate the ocean and the things that live in it. His experience and knowledge cover subjects from equipment to coral identification. His diving credentials include his certification as a Science Diver at Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution, personal diving certifications through Advanced Trimix, Full Cave with stage, and normoxic CCR.

James Mott:
James Mott is an instructor for Unified Team Diving International, a DIR-based training agency that is committed to building thinking divers. A veteran of the Great Lakes area diving community, James started working at Don’s Dive Shop in 1991 just two years after learning how to scuba dive, and has managed Sea The World Scuba Center since its opening in 1996. James’ heart lies beneath the cold waters of the Great Lakes along with the shipwrecks that he loves diving, in addition, he also has a newfound love for Florida’s cave diving and an occasional dip in shark-infested waters. Passionate about educating the diving community and sharing an underwater philosophical base, James’ instruction provides infinite possibilities and extends attainable excellence to all divers willing to reexamine their underwater behavior.

Mike Gault:
Mike began his diving career in 1990. He holds Instructor Trainer ratings in mixed-gas diving as well as several other technical diving programs. Other professional diver ratings include Public Safety Diving Instructor and Surface Supplied Diver from the Association of Diving Contractors. Participation in other exploration projects includes the Flower Gardens Brine Seep Expedition, the Woodville Karst Plain Project, and Jacob’s Well. Mike is a founding member of the Goodenough Springs Exploration Project and the Texas Underwater Survey Project. In 2020, Mike formed CTX Hyperbaric Solutions, a US DOT-licensed hydrostatic testing facility, and service center designed to better serve the technical diving community in the Central Texas area. Mike is actively engaged in developing technical divers and technical diving instructors. As a life-long diver, he continues his own personal development and in 2022 began his journey into rebreather training on the Fathom mCCR unit.

Comedy: Professional entertainment consisting of jokes and sketches, intended to make an audience laugh. Anytime I meet someone that can make me laugh, I am instantly drawn in. On this week's episode, I speak with Olivia of Fully Submerged Scuba. She brings me through her journey of how the class clown from the Midwest ended up in the sunshine state bringing scuba comedy to the masses. From her first breath underwater to becoming a diving professional, This is the story of Fully Submerged Scuba. Enjoy.

Website:

https://linktr.ee/FullySubmerged

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/fullysubmergedscuba/

In this Round Table Discussion, I have a conversation with Scubaboard members Glenn(Wibble) and Gordon(Searcaigh) about their thoughts on solo diving.

If you are enjoying the show, please consider leaving a review on your podcast listening platform.

www.scubaboard.com

Proud and excited to introduce my next guest. Monica Chin is an environmental and marine conservationist, she is on a mission to educate and protect the beautiful waters surrounding Sabah in North Borneo Malaysia. On this week's episode, we speak about ocean conservation, One Ocean Empire, diving around Malaysia, and what you can do to help. An inspiration, a proud Malaysian, and a true ambassador of our ocean. I hope you enjoy.

Website:

https://www.facebook.com/oneoceanempire/

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/monicaborneo/

https://www.instagram.com/oneoceanempire/

In this Round Table Discussion, I have a conversation with Kosta Koeman about if there should be a big emphasis on neutral buoyancy while conducting a Discover Scuba Dive in a pool or if should it come during the Open Water Course.

Kosta Koeman is an SDI Open Water Scuba Instructor who resides is Seattle, Washington. Some of Kosta's articles can be seen in the SDI blog as well as his personal blog page on his thoughts about scuba instruction and the scuba industry. He is also an active member of ScubaBoard (wetb4igetinthewater)

Website:
https://divingwithkosta.wordpress.com/
https://thehaes.org/
ScubaBoard

Explorer, pioneer, innovator, a few words used to describe my next guest. In this week’s interview, I speak with Bill Stone. Bill has been pushing boundaries as far back as he can remember. From the deepest caves to space exploration, no frontier is off-limits. I get a chance to speak with Bill about the early days of technical diving, rebreathers, past explorations, future projects, arguments over cheese, and changing the world. I hope you enjoy.

Website:

https://stoneaerospace.com/
https://sunfishinc.com/

I want to introduce a new series to 
Off Gassing: 

Round Table Discussions

The interviews will always be the main course of the show. I would like to think of The Round Table as side dishes. I came up with this idea while on ScubaBoard, a place where many divers of all levels get together and have discussions. ScubaBoard is a great place for any diver to gather information and learn but as many of you know ScubaBoard can get very heated sometimes. The goal is to get these divers together to have respectful and engaging conversations. Round Table episodes will be released as I record them. Stay tuned and hit that subscribe button so you don’t miss them when they drop.      

It has always been a goal of mine to keep learning and seek out the why behind different perspectives, methods, and philosophies. I became a recreational scuba instructor a few years ago, and even then, I knew there was so much more to learn. I have taken this past year off to further my own education and hope to get back into teaching towards the end of this year. With each Round Table, interview, and different courses I take, I hope to learn and add to my toolbox to become a stronger, safer, better instructor and overall diver. 

On this week's episode, I interview Charlie Roberson. I get a chance to talk with Charlie about his early days of diving, Florida caves, NSS-CDS, Karst Underwater Research, and of course Fathom rebreathers. I hope you enjoy.

Website:
https://www.fathomdive.com/

Karst Underwater Research

https://nsscds.org/

Pyle stops, deep stops, do you know the whole story? In this week's episode, I speak with world-famous ichthyologist Richard Pyle. Richard speaks about how a serious accident in his youth ended up being a life-changing event that led him down the path of where he is today. His love of fish, getting bent, rebreathers, diving physiology, the truth about deep stops, and much more in this interview with the self-proclaimed fish nerd. Enjoy!

https://www.bishopmuseum.org/

On this week's episode, I interview Laura. The woman behind The Dive Meme. Something that started during the lockdown of the Covid 19 pandemic, has now grown to be an internet sensation. I speak with Laura about how it all started, her diving experiences, local diving, content creation, how she likes to spend her downtime and the joy she finds bringing laughter, one dive meme at a time. Enjoy

Instagram:
@thedivememe
Website:
https://linktr.ee/thedivememe

About a year ago, I had the opportunity to relocate to the beautiful country of Malaysia. Anytime I can highlight and show off this amazing place, I jump at any opportunity.  On this week's episode, I'm excited to speak with Malaysia’s very own Stacy Chee. Born and Raised in Malaysia, Stacy is the owner and founder of Moby-Tek, a recreational and technical dive center on Tioman Island on the east coast of Peninsular Malaysia. We get a chance to speak about some different dive destinations in Malaysia, some of her favorite places to dive around South East Asia, her journey as a diver, and of course, Moby-Tek and Tioman Island.

Instagram:
@Stacychee
@MobyTek.Dives
Website:
https://www.moby-tek.com/
Facebook:
Moby-Tek Dive Centre
Stacy Chee

After chatting with Bruce for a few minutes, it felt as if I have known him for years. We talked about his path into Scuba Diving, wrecks, caves, local community work he is doing, his work with ANDI, and what he has in mind for the future. Enjoy!

Website:
https://deeptecdiver.com/
Email:
[email protected]

When searching for sidemount diving on the internet, it's impossible not to come across Andy Davis and Scuba Tech Philippines. On this week's episode, I sit down with Andy and hear some of his thoughts on wreck diving, gas density, foundational skills, advice for divers moving into the technical world, and of course sidemount. I hope you enjoy.

Website:
https://scubatechphilippines.com/
Instagram:
@andydavistechnicaldiving
Facebook:
Scuba Tech Philippines
Email:
[email protected]

Sloshed, merry, tanked, zonked, guttered, intoxicated, drunken. These are some of the words you can use to describe what you are about to hear. Let's just say, I got to know Santa Theresa a little too well. I apologize for the recording, let's just say there were some technical difficulties, yeah technical difficulties. In this week's interview, we bring you part one of Marc Cranes Interview. Anytime I get a chance to hang out with Marc, it's informative and good fun. I get a chance to speak with Marc about his journey as a diver, some of his travel experiences, some of his thoughts on rebreathers, some explorations, and some fine rum as well. I hope you enjoy

Website:
https://tekdeep.com/
Instagram:
@TekDeepAsia
Email: 
[email protected]

Sloshed, merry, tanked, zonked, guttered, intoxicated, drunken. These are some of the words you can use to describe what you are about to hear. Let's just say, I got to know Santa Theresa a little too well. I apologize for the recording, let's just say there were some technical difficulties, yeah technical difficulties. In this week's interview, we bring you part two of Marc Cranes Interview. Anytime I get a chance to hang out with Marc, it's informative and good fun. I get a chance to speak with Marc about his journey as a diver, some of his travel experiences, some of his thoughts on rebreathers, some explorations, and some fine rum as well. I hope you enjoy

Website:
https://tekdeep.com/
Instagram:
@TekDeepAsia
Email: 
[email protected]

In this week's episode, I speak with Kyle Roepke. A cinematographer aiming to give a voice to the underwater world. Kyle speaks about learning to dive in the cold but beautiful waters of British Colombia, working with Sea Legacy, and eventually starting his own production company. I also get a chance to speak with Kyle about his path into the rebreather world. A journey to find purpose, a journey to capture moments, and of course some amusing stories along the way. I hope you enjoy!

Follow Kyle on Instagram:
@kyle.roepke
Website:
https://kyleroepke.com/

In this week's episode, I interview Kira and Serge. Owners and founders of Jepun Divers in Amed Bali. As soon as you step foot in Jepun Divers you are overcome with a feeling of welcomeness. A place to hang out and grab a beer with some new friends or meet up with some old ones. From their first breaths underwater to the rocky road of opening a dive shop. Jepun is a true family-owned, family-operated dive shop. After meeting Kira and Serge, I wanted to share their story. I hope you enjoy

Website:
https://www.amedjepundivers.com/
Instagram:
@amedjepundivers
Email:
[email protected]

In this week's episode, I interview Elsa. A true adventurer. I first met Elsa while on a fun diving trip in Thailand. I was instantly drawn to her story. From hating water to her journey to becoming an instructor, the ups and downs of working in the scuba industry, her time through the pandemic, and her joy of the unknown. Elsa is truly a free spirit and this is her story. I hope you enjoy. 

Follow Elsa's adventures on Instagram: @amazed_by_underwater

An introduction to why I wanted to start the podcast. My goals and ideas for the show. Enjoy