One Dive at a Time

Over the past year, I noticed something shift. Friends I once counted on stopped showing up. Invitations went unanswered, and I found myself diving alone more often than not. At first, it stung—realizing that connections I thought were solid had faded. But in that silence, I discovered something powerful: quiet confidence. It wasn't about proving anything to anyone else. It was about standing firm in who I am, even when the crowd got smaller.That discovery made me realize just how critical quiet confidence is for veterans.Why Quiet Confidence Matters for VeteransDepression and Self-Worth: When you leave the service, the structure, validation, and sense of mission disappear almost overnight. Depression feeds on that emptiness. Quiet confidence pushes back by reminding you that your value doesn't end with your uniform.Isolation vs. Connection: Many veterans feel their social circles shrink, and loneliness creeps in. Building confidence allows you to accept that loss without being defined by it—and opens the door to more authentic, reciprocal relationships.Resilience: Quiet confidence equips you to face hard days with inner strength. It's a tool that grounds you and keeps you moving forward, no matter what's happening around you.Three Hacks for Building Quiet ConfidenceStart Small – Embrace little acts of individuality: say what you really think, wear what feels like you. These small moves grow into a strong foundation.Choose Your Circle Wisely – Surround yourself with people who celebrate your authenticity and give back as much as they take.Work With a Coach – Coaching provides a safe space to identify your strengths and build a confidence that directly combats the effects of depression.Takeaway Quiet confidence doesn't shout. It whispers strength. For veterans struggling with depression, it's a lifeline—a way to rebuild trust in yourself, reclaim purpose, and walk forward with resilience. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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Life has a way of opening doors you never even knocked on. The real question is whether you're ready to walk through them when they appear. Opportunities often come disguised as challenges or surprises, but with the right mindset, you can recognize them and act with confidence.Here are three life hacks to help you stay prepared:First, practice daily reflection—take five minutes each evening to ask yourself what went well, what challenged you, and what surprised you. Second, surround yourself with the right voices—spend time with people who encourage growth and possibility, not those who hold you back. Third, set micro-goals—break big ambitions into small, achievable steps that build momentum.When you live this way, the doors that open unexpectedly won't feel intimidating. They'll feel like the next natural step forward. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Recap of our trip to Wendover Utah! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of One Dive at a Time, we dive into the power of progress. Too often, divers get caught up in speed—how quickly they can master buoyancy, nail a mask clear, or move on to advanced dives. But the truth is this: it doesn't matter how slowly you go, as long as you don't stop.I'll share three key tips for building lasting dive skills:Consistency over intensity – small, regular practice beats one big push.Micro-wins matter – celebrate the small victories that add up to mastery.Patience with your pace – your journey is yours, and persistence always pays off.Listen in as I share real examples of divers who grew their confidence and abilities not by rushing, but by steadily showing up. Progress isn't about perfection—it's about momentum, built one dive at a time. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We need your help to get this funded! https://www.facebook.com/share/14HNKe7RzPH/ https://www.standsurecoaching.com/foundationIn this episode, we share exciting progress on the Cordy Gaeta Rice Coaching Scholarship and what lies ahead. Our startup fundraiser is officially underway with a goal of $10,000, and thanks to your generosity, we're already one-tenth of the way there. Every dollar raised goes directly to securing ICF-affiliated professional coaches—the gold standard in coaching—for veterans.We discuss why having the right coach matters, what sets ICF-certified coaches apart, and how this scholarship ensures veterans are matched with coaches who uphold high standards, ethics, and accountability. You'll also hear about the application process we're building for veterans, the rigorous requirements for coaches, and why we're determined to keep this program strong from the very start.This scholarship honors Cordy's legacy of compassion, strength, and friendship—carrying forward his example of being there for others.

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Today we announce the launching of the Cordy Gaeta Scholarship through the Stand Sure Foundation. Cordy wasn't just a member of Neptune Warrior—he was family. He brought encouragement, humor, and strength into every space he walked into.Through a partnership with Stand Sure Coaching, veterans will now have access to certified coaches who are trained to help them navigate the challenges of PTSD, transition, and post-military life. #veterans #veteransuicide #coaching #cordy #mentalwellness Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We often treat intuition like it's mystical or just gut-level guessing—but there's real neuroscience behind it. In fact, researchers like Antonio Damasio have shown that intuition often comes from what's called somatic markers—those gut feelings are your brain's way of tapping into stored patterns from past experiences. Your body is basically saying, “Hey, we've been here before, and last time it didn't go well.” For events check out the event page: https://www.eventbrite.com/o/stand-sure-coaching-114435150711 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sometimes our lives have to be completely shaken up—torn down, rearranged, and flipped inside out—just to get us to the place we were meant to be.Here is that link and use the code 100OFF for additional podcast discounthttps://www.standsurecoaching.com/products/3-pack-coaching-sessions/6266907000000162077 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

There's a saying: “A boat is just a hole in the water you pour money into.” I disagree. A boat, especially something as humble as a Jon boat with a 10-horsepower outboard, is more than that. It's a floating lesson in grit. It's a sanctuary. It's a rite of passage Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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It is time to fire this up again! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The podcast I never wanted to make. We have lost an amazing member of our community. This is just raw from my phone Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

I am loving my scooter and what it provides for my disabled divers-- but this is more about my adventure!Yesterday at Payette Lake was a game changer. I headed out there with one goal in mind—underwater searches for bottles and old artifacts that I've been hunting for a while.Normally, I'd be limited by how much ground I could cover manually, but this time, I brought the scooter with me, and it made all the difference.Once I got down there, I fired up the scooter and immediately felt the freedom. Instead of slowly kicking my way through the water and getting fatigued, I was able to glide effortlessly over the lakebed, focusing entirely on my search. The scooter allowed me to cover a much larger area than I ever could on my own, which was key in a place like Payette Lake where the water can get murky, and the terrain can stretch on for what feels like forever. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

More lessons that I transfer from the water into real life- my compass board Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is where I grew up in my diving career. New Jersey waters are known for being unpredictable and can often present difficult diving conditions, including strong currents, low visibility, and cold temperatures. These conditions make wreck diving off the coast of New Jersey more challenging, and divers who regularly dive these wrecks develop excellent technical skills.For experienced divers looking to push their abilities, these waters are perfect for refining their skills in challenging environments. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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This year Brooks has had some major health and fitness challenges. Injuries have plagued her for the last few months. In this episode we talk about the uphill battle, setbacks, and the mindset to be a fit diver. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Responding as a rant-- Hey those of us who are inland and love diving-- its all we really have-- so to those snooty ocean only divers "pfffft" Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

So I just relaunched my Dive Journal!!!! This is a unique tool designed to guide divers on a journey of personal growth, mental wellness, and adventure. More than just a dive log, this journal encourages reflection on how diving impacts one's life—mentally, physically, and emotionally. With spaces for dive details, personal notes, and mementos from each adventure, it's a way to track not only dives but also the diver's progress in building a deeper connection with the water, themselves, and their community. Exercises interspersed throughout encourage mindfulness, offering opportunities to reflect on growth beyond the technical aspects of diving.https://a.co/d/5C4U6mg Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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Full video on Patreon/TheNeptuneWarrior. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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Make sure you are getting more of this!!! https://www.patreon.com/TheNeptuneWarriorFull video cast and downloadables for our subscribers on Patreon! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Immediate Action Drills are not just about surviving emergencies; they are about thriving in any situation. The psychology behind IADs—automaticity, stress management, situational awareness, teamwork, and momentum—can be applied to every aspect of our lives.For more visit our Premium Membership! https://www.patreon.com/TheNeptuneWarrior Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

So in this episode not only are we talking the positive effects of doing good- but also a test run for our first VLOG cast at https://www.patreon.com/TheNeptuneWarrior Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ever have that diver that just has a smile on their face every time they are in the water? Well, that is this young lady. We all have our story and Christine is no exception. Diving has been on her list for a very long time and the past month she has used scuba as a way to discover peace. By the time you listen to this, she will be a newly minted diver.Btw don't forget to help us out on our donation page where helping divers like Christine to explore diving. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Its an honor to have one of my newest divers on the podcast. Josh is a combat veteran Marine who served hos country and is now finding peace and purpose in the water. As a reminder two links to check out- our fundraiser that supports vets looking for purpose https://gofund.me/27e194b3 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode I talk about Organic Scuba. Organic Scuba Training is a natural, adaptive approach that goes beyond traditional diving lessons. It emphasizes personal growth, environmental stewardship, and community connection. This unique training method tailors the learning experience to individual needs, immerses you in real-world scenarios, and integrates mindfulness and relaxation techniques.BTW- if you want to help our vets https://gofund.me/2f6d595c Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

You've seen the sticker- now hear the story! (BTW-- That sticker is available https://gofund.me/24130a1a Bad decisions make great stories. It's a phrase we all know, and for good reason. Every misstep, every wrong turn, and every moment of uncertainty shapes us into who we are today. Think about it—how often do we find ourselves sharing tales of those times we thought we had it all figured out, only to be proven hilariously, sometimes painfully, wrong?Our stories define us, not just the polished moments of success, but the raw, unfiltered experiences of failure and folly. Those bad decisions? They're the colorful threads in the fabric of our lives, weaving lessons and laughter into our journey. They remind us of our humanity, our resilience, and our ability to grow.Hey we need your help to keep helping vets! https://gofund.me/24130a1aHi, I started this fundraiser, Donate to Empower Veterans with Scuba Therapy, on GoFundMe and it would mean a lot to me if you'd be able to share or donate to it. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

I see this come up on many fb pages and boards--- "How do I get more experience?" Looking past all the nonsensical answers from the "elites" out there with some real advice that doesn't require a move to an exotic island to dive.#scuba #diving #wellness #scubalife #travel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It is a hot Saturday and we are hours away from another SIT by the Pit-- but what is a SbtP and what are the norms Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is why through Neptune Warrior- we make a sacrifice for the one who diving might be out of reach for Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Stop taking half priced lessons and shopping for half assed gear. Support those who are there to support you in the long term. Support your local dive shop. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

I am fired up in this episode by the self-ordained dive elitist not understanding and bashing our program designed for healing. Aquatic Awakening is not scuba lessons so we do stuff that make the heads of scuba elitist absolutely explode! #cavediving #wellness #scuba #veterans #disableddivers #handicap #vets #scubadiving Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this episode I talk about the gear Neptune Warrior donates to our G.I. Bill® divers#scuba #scubadiving #GIBILL #veterans #wellness Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This has been a faily frequesnt question with my new divers. So breaking down the advantages and disadvantages of having your own tank. #scuba #Scubadiving #bluemind #wellness Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This episode I show you my Top 10 List of Dive Movies. Be sure to check out the website www.TheNeptuneWarrior.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Be sure to see the blog at TheNeptuneWarrior.comDiving, like many other activities, relies on consistency and small improvements. Atomic habits are tiny changes that compound over time to create significant results. James Clear, in his book "Atomic Habits," explains that improving by just 1% each day leads to results nearly 37 times better after one year. This principle is ideal for diving, where small, regular practices enhance skills and safety significantly.The theory behind atomic habits is about making small, maintainable changes. These habits, repeated consistently, create a compound effect, much like interest in finance. Our brains automate these behaviors, making them easier over time.Building on successes is essential. Small wins release dopamine, creating a positive feedback loop. Celebrating milestones like mastering buoyancy control or navigating a dive site builds confidence and motivation.To apply atomic habits to diving, start with daily stretching. Just five minutes can improve flexibility, enhancing maneuverability and reducing cramps. Regularly review dive tables and plan dives to keep knowledge sharp. Routine equipment checks ensure everything is in order, building confidence and safety.To create a habit system: identify a trigger (cue), attach a positive outcome (craving), make the habit easy (response), and celebrate small wins (reward). Overcoming challenges requires consistency and not letting setbacks derail progress.The compound effect in diving means small, consistent improvements add up, leading to significant progress. Consider a diver who practices buoyancy control for five minutes daily, gradually improving until it becomes second nature.Habit stacking is another technique, where you pair a new habit with an existing one. For example, review dive tables right after setting up your gear.The long-term benefits of atomic habits in diving are profound, fostering continuous improvement and a mindset of excellence and resilience. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

PTSD coaches complement traditional therapy and offer unique benefits that address some of its limitations:Accessibility:Coaches often provide more affordable and flexible support options, making help accessible to a wider audience. Many coaches offer online sessions, sliding scale fees, or group coaching programs to accommodate different financial situations.Non-Stigmatizing:Coaching is typically viewed as a form of personal development rather than medical treatment, which can be more appealing and less stigmatizing. This perspective can encourage more people to seek support.Goal-Oriented:Coaches focus on helping clients set and achieve specific personal and professional goals. This forward-looking approach can foster a sense of progress, accomplishment, and empowerment, which is especially beneficial for individuals with PTSD who may feel stuck in their recovery.Strengths-Based:Coaches emphasize identifying and leveraging individual strengths, building confidence, and promoting a positive self-image. This strengths-based approach helps clients see themselves as capable and resilient, which can be transformative for their recovery and overall well-being. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

I remember an advertisement from the Army back in the late 80's, “We do more before 9 AM than most people do in a day.” My military experience was just that. Up at o'dark-thirty for PT, shower, chow, first formation. https://scubarob.com/2023/09/06/more-before-9/#scuba #scubadiving #diving #scubaislife #naui #divetravel #scubawreckdiving #couplesthattravel #divelocal#xsscuba#podcast @xsscuba #mindful #zen #mindfulness #wellness #change #crucialcinversations #cliftonstrengths #care #meditation #backyardzen Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Did you know you can use you education benefits as a veteran to get your scuba certification?When Skye, a former linguist for the U.S. Air Force first joined our program, she was hesitant and unsure of what lay ahead. However, with each dive, I saw her confidence grow. She started with the basics and quickly progressed, driven by her newfound passion. Our program through NAUI not only provided her with the skills and certifications needed to become a proficient diver but also gave her the courage to explore the world.G.I. Bill® is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). More information about education benefits offered by VA is available at the official U.S. government website at http://www.benefits.va.gov/gibillHow to get StartedStep 1:​(a) Contact Neptune Warrior (neptunewarrior22@gmail.com)(b) Learn about G.I. Bill® eligibility requirements and find out if you can get these benefits. If you're an active-duty service member or Veteran, a member of the National Guard or Reserves, or a qualified survivor or dependent, find out if you can get VA education benefits through the G.I. Bill® and other educational assistance programs.Step 2:​Apply for your G.I. Bill® benefits.​How to apply for the G.I. Bill® and related benefits go to the VA website at: https://www.va.gov/education/how-to-apply/ and follow the directions.​If you have already applied for your benefits and just need to find out how many months of benefits you have left, please go to the VA website at: https://www.va.gov/education/gi-bill/post-9-11/ch-33-benefit/. and follow the steps on how to check your benefits.Print out your VA statement of benefits you will need to bring it to us. ​Step 3:​Upon completion of all exams. The NAUI VA testing center will give you three documents and a presentation so you can submit for your VA reimbursement. (all reimbursements from the VA are first come first serve but it is taking about 30 to 60 days to receive your reimbursement from the VA).https://scubarob.com/2024/05/29/using-military-benefits-with-neptune-warrior/?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAR3PQJF3Uft9QmGzWZDa-GAbM0khy47Cs-kLXM0XKigF-y_BLNC4OmFb4-E_aem_AdMcbJqH2sAfGWTwmC3bHp1rRpjfqiyT572syP8qJlao6X0mzchmiSjgGRtmucwgyBRP5JP33_S0kHj80Lz701Kf#gibill #veteran #missionimpossible #scuba #naui Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Selecting the perfect travel companion is crucial for anyone, but it's especially important if you have PTSD. The right travel buddy can make your journey enjoyable and stress-free, while the wrong one might exacerbate your symptoms and ruin your trip. When considering a travel partner, focus on compatibility, communication skills, and reliability. Your travel buddy should share your interests in diving and travel, have an understanding of PTSD, communicate openly, and be dependable. These qualities will ensure a supportive and harmonious travel experience, allowing you to fully enjoy your adventures.#ScubaWellness #TravelForWellness #VeteranScuba #DivingTherapy #WellnessTravel #ScubaHealing #VeteranWellness #PTSDRecovery #ScubaLife #TravelTherapy #DivingAdventures #VeteranTravel #MentalHealthJourney #HealingWaters #OceanTherapy #TravelWithPurpose #ScubaAdventures #VeteranSupport #WellnessJourney #HealingThroughTravel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Was great to have Brooks on tis episode!Happy couples are often characterized by their strong emotional connections. Engaging in activities like scuba diving, where trust, communication, and support are paramount, naturally fosters these connections. Underwater, where verbal communication takes a back seat, couples learn to communicate through signals and body language, deepening their understanding of each other's needs and emotions. This silent dialogue enhances empathy and fosters a unique bond that transcends the dive itself.#diving #scubadiving #romance #Couples Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A Holistic Approach to Dive Training In the world of diving, there's a significant difference between simply certifying individuals and truly creating divers. At Neptune Warrior, our focus is on the latter. We strive to cultivate true divers who are confident, competent, and find personal fulfillment in their underwater adventures.#scuba #scubadiving #veterans #mentalhealth Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

First-- I admit my energy level is down and still recovering from surgery, so give me some grace.In this episode I go over the updates to the Neptune Warrior Master Scuba Diver. The list can be found on scubarob.com and theneptunewarrior.com This is not your typical Master Scuba Diver Course. This is essentially turning you into the most competent and complete diver.This is the most demanding, yet rewarding program you can do in scuba diving and Neptune Warrior takes it to the next level. After completion of this intense course, there is no doubt you have mastered scuba diving.#Scuba #Scubadiver #masterscubadiver Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In a world that constantly buzzes with social interactions, both online and offline, the art of being alone is often undervalued. Yet, embracing solitude can be one of the most profound ways to foster personal growth, enhance self-care, and build resilience. Here's how diving into your own company can be a transformative journey for your body, brain, and soul.#resiliance#alone#solitude Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Less than more. At its core, minimalism is about reducing the excess in our lives to focus on what truly matters. It's a deliberate choice to live with less, not out of deprivation, but to enhance quality of life. In art and design, minimalism is characterized by simplicity, clean lines, and monochromatic color schemes, providing a visual and mental space that breathes clarity and calm. When adopted as a lifestyle, minimalism encourages the shedding of physical clutter and, more importantly, the mental clutter, creating room for activities, relationships, and experiences that genuinely enrich our lives.#minimalism #minimalist #scubamonk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.