The Scuba Diving Podcast

The Last Breath is based on the unbelievable true story of a diving accident. Kenny speaks with movie Director Alex Parkinson and Producer David Brooks to better understand the thought process behind the movie. Both Guests are co-writers of the 2025 movie, and give an inside look at some of the behind-the-scenes challenges and obstacles. Spoiler Alert: This is an early review and discussion of plot points and questions about the Last Breath. If you haven't seen the movie yet, I'd definitely recommend it!Our interview discusses how actors Fin Cole, Simu Liu and Woody Harrelson were able to capture the true emotion of being trapped in a dangerous rescue mission deep underwater. This movie has a realistic, visceral feel to it. Aside from a little (visually stunning) creative license, it follows the real story of Chris Lemons, the commercial saturation diver who got stranded in a heavy dive suit on the seafloor of the North Sea. If that wasn't enough, it was during a storm, and at night.We got to discuss the set pieces, where it was filmed, and the challenges the producer and directors faced, and ultimately overcame.They also discussed how much scuba training the actors had to undergo, the screening process, and how they handled being underwater during filming. Finally, we discuss the ending, the theories on how he was able to survive, and the strength to get back out there and dive.It's a movie about human survival, the life of a commercial deep saturation diver, and the drive to return to work after going through such a harrowing life-or-death situation.Finn Cole stars as Chris Lemons, Woody Harrelson as Duncan Allock, and Simon Liu as Dave Yuasa.Directed by Alex Parkinson (co-writer)Produced by David Brooks (co-writer)https://www.focusfeatures.com/last-breath/—Kenny Dyal is the host of The Scuba Diving Podcast:TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@kenny_dyalInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/sweetwater_scubaFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/realkennydyalLinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/kennydyalX: https://twitter.com/RealKennyDyalwww.sweetwaterscuba.com

The inventor of Avelo explains exactly how it works and why it's changing how people go scuba diving.Aviad Cahana invented this new system, intended to make scuba diving easier, more accessible, and just a lot more fun.Buoyancy Control is no longer an obstacle, especially for new divers and students.Scuba Diving is also somewhat restrictive due to carrying lots of weight (especially shore diving), and this reduces the overall weight a diver has on their back.Scuba Diving is not only safer with this system, but it also reduces air consumption (even for professionals).  Aviad also reveals some wild research into buoyancy, weight, and wetsuits, turning what we've been teaching Open Water students upside down.Renowned underwater stunt performer, Liz Parkinson also explains her endorsement of this device. This brings the world of scuba diving much closer to the experience of freediving, without the breathhold limitations. The Avelo System is already changing the future of scuba diving. Hope you love this video breaking it down.https://diveavelo.com/—Kenny Dyal is the host of The Scuba Diving Podcast:TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@kenny_dyalInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/sweetwater_scubaFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/realkennydyalLinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/kennydyalX: https://twitter.com/RealKennyDyalwww.sweetwaterscuba.com

Dr. Melissa Giresi explains how regular scuba divers can help save the coral reefs! Volunteers can actually help maintain and grow new coral in the Florida Keys with the Ocean Conservation Foundation, which is a branch of Rainbow Reef.She walks us through the process of diving in the coral nurseries and helping save the reefs.If you've ever wanted to dive in a magical underwater farm of tropical fish and coral, this is how to do it!Melissa is the Director of Conservation at Ocean Conservation Foundation. She is public presenter on Fish ID, conservation initiatives. She has a Ph.D. in Biology with extensive experience in research, teaching, and diving. Special thanks to Coral Restoration Foundation™ for supplying video of the underwater coral nurseries.Also a special thanks to Seminole Scuba for hosting the conservation exhibit event where the interview took place.Contact Ocean Conservation Foundation:https://www.oceanconservationfoundation.org/ocean-conservation-team/Info@oceanconservationfoundation.orgFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/OceanConservationFoundation/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theoceanconservationfoundation/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheOceanConservationFoundation

Mark Gresham of PSI - PCI is a renowned industry leader in the dive and compressed gas industry. He debunks myths and disinformation about scuba tanks (formally called cylinders), offering detailed explanations. Some of the controversial topics include: Are titanium regulators flammable when filled with Nitrox? (or blended / partial pressure oxygen mixes) Is there any reason to roll or shake scuba tanks to mix the blended gas inside? Should valve hand wheels on a scuba tank still be turned back a quarter turn? Does the air in a scuba tank go bad after a while? What makes a VIP (Visual Inspection Sticker) valid? And how often do scuba tanks explode? Mark discusses and answers those topics and more in this interview where we finally get to the bottom of these common questions in the dive industry. Mark Gresham is considered the leader in Cylinder Inspections, analysis, valve, and fill station expertise. He is regularly consulted by global dive operations, NASA, Dept of Defense, NOAA, and many others. http://www.psicylinders.com/ — Kenny Dyal is the host of The Scuba Diving Podcast: TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@kenny_dyal Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sweetwater_scuba Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/realkennydyal LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/kennydyal X: https://twitter.com/RealKennyDyal www.sweetwaterscuba.com

Scuba Divers are wildly attached to their gear, especially their regulator! That makes this all the more bold of a move by Jared Berg, who plunged head-first into a crowded, and ultimately tiny market space.  But… NEX is now emerging as one of the top scuba equipment manufacturers in recreational AND technical diving. To prove it, NEX Underwater Products has already won two awards: Scuba Lab's Tester's Choice for 2022 Scuba Lab's Best Buy for 2023 Jared's passion spills onto everything he builds, and it's for all to see. His daughter's name is also infused directly into the product names. PS, his daughter also happens to be his dive buddy. Aside from making his gear line in the USA (which is amazing!), he even makes his own hoses and other small accessories. The quality control he puts into every little D-ring and doo-dad is unreal, to the point where it turned my head at the DEMA Show (this was not a planned interview at all). The build, performance, and modularity seem to rival the biggest stalwarts of the dive industry, like Scubapro, Apex, DiveRite, Atomic, and the rest of the gang.  I loved everything down to the look. This was the most sought-after prize at the DEMA Scuba Radio pre-show given out each day. I'm looking forward to seeing what's next! (And by next I mean NEX, of course) Here's how to find them: https://www.nexdive.com/ https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063761692565 https://www.instagram.com/nexdiving — Kenny Dyal is the host of The Scuba Diving Podcast: TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@kenny_dyal Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sweetwater_scuba Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/realkennydyal LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/kennydyal X: https://twitter.com/RealKennyDyal www.sweetwaterscuba.com

Every scuba diver must visit this location at some point in their life. My only regret is not going sooner. We noticed that it's just as mind-blowing to non-divers and kids as it is to certified divers. I also believe it inspires many to go and get involved in the world of scuba diving. In this interview, I speak with the executive director, Lisa Mongelia while at the DEMA Show. She not only gives us some foundational history, but some of the most interesting points and facts about the museum itself.  I also found the little hidden Playmobile divers to be wildly fun, in an Easter-eggy kinda way! The history of Diving Museum is a first-class operation with extremely fine attention to detail. This is every diver's bucket-list destination, and it's perfectly situated in the Florida Keys, on Islamorada.  From sound effects to things you can touch, we got the vibe of being transported somewhere else. I was shocked at the number of dive helmets and suits that exist out there and loved the timeline and facts along the floor as we walked from one exhibit to the next. They displayed everything from earliest Seibe Gorman dive helmets to the Mark V, as well as all regular scuba diving milestones and even the submersible Jim Suits (atmosphere dive suits). This was one of my all-time favorite maritime attractions, and I will be back! PS I think what really makes this one pop is tha fact that it's right in between SO much scuba diving (between Key Largo and Key West). It just fits. Contact the History of Diving Museum: https://divingmuseum.org/ YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@TheDivingmuseum https://www.facebook.com/divingmuseum/ https://www.instagram.com/divingmuseum/ 82990 Overseas Hwy, Islamorada, FL 33036 (305) 664-9737 info@divingmuseum.org — Kenny Dyal is the host of The Scuba Diving Podcast: TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@kenny_dyal Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sweetwater_scuba Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/realkennydyal LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/kennydyal Twitter: https://twitter.com/RealKennyDyal www.sweetwaterscuba.com

Scuba diving has been stuck in the stone age for a while. Here is a recap of, in my opinion, why we are going to catch up to the other big sports rather quickly. We've all seen the endless, well-intentioned attempts at a new dive app like how to find dive locations, log a dive, or an agency app (like PADI, NAUI, SSI, SDI, BSAC, CMAS, etc.). But I see people light up when they realize they can store ALL of their certs and cross-validate dive logs. It tracks professional divers and operators so you can get validated by pro from any agency. The other big one is the fact it notifies you of divers in your area. Buddy Radar is a dive buddy finder, and it actually goes off quite a bit when I travel. This is a game changer as more people get on the app. It's got buckets of other features that continue to impress me. I hope you love this recap that has been 2 years in the making! PS if you want to get some free stuff, win contests, and maybe grab a sponsorship, jump over to their site and get on it! https://divewithbuddy.com/buddyexplorerteam – Download Buddy App for iOS https://apps.apple.com/us/app/buddy-dive-log-community/id1588860327 Download Buddy App for Android https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.divewithbuddy.app&pli=1 https://www.tiktok.com/@divewithbuddy https://www.instagram.com/divewithbuddy/ — Kenny Dyal is the host of The Scuba Diving Podcast: TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@kenny_dyal Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sweetwater_scuba Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/realkennydyal LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/kennydyal Twitter: https://twitter.com/RealKennyDyal www.sweetwaterscuba.com

Bella Zandoná dives the dark, cold waters of the Pacific Northwest packing a Marelux camera rig while wearing a drysuit. She is proof that scuba diving doesn't need to be a macho sport for “tough guys”, and everyone with a love of the ocean should get involved. Bella loves shooting macro underwater photography, capturing the hidden sea life that enchants those less-traveled ocean floors.  Bella is an ambassador for Marelux camera equipment, as well as Suunto dive computers.  I bumped into her at DEMA, where she was on the showroom floor. Bella also gives lectures on photography, marine biology, and conservation in her home State of Washington.  @divingwithbella is the account every diver should be keeping an eye on. Bella is the next big thing to hit the scuba diving industry and is already making big waves in the Pacific Northwest. How to follow Bella Zandoná: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/divingwithbella/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@divingwithbella LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/isabella-zandona-135681182/ — Kenny Dyal is the host of The Scuba Diving Podcast: TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@kenny_dyal Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sweetwater_scuba Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/realkennydyal LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/kennydyal X: https://twitter.com/RealKennyDyal www.sweetwaterscuba.com

Haley Mermaid explains exactly how she became a full-time Mermaid Performer and tips for other merfolk to break into those paid gigs. We cover a lot in this sit-down interview, from training tips to tail making pointers, plus safety concerns for parents with kids who want to learn to be a mermaid. She also lists specific steps to getting jobs as a mermaid. Finally, the big reason Scuba Certification is the biggest asset in mermaid training. We get into the real reasons why Scuba is more helpful than freediving for mermaid safety and character performance (but also why freediving is still extremely valuable). @HaleyTheMermaid has MILLIONS of followers, makes and sells mermaid tails, jewelry, tops, and accessories. Haley can also be hired for character performance events, shows, mermaid training courses, and even personalized videos. How to contact & follow Haley Mermaid: https://haleymermaid.com/ https://www.tiktok.com/@haleymermaid https://www.instagram.com/haleymermaid https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCOXdy8FV2pRRGfChsvO0f-A https://www.facebook.com/haleymermaidofficial https://www.etsy.com/shop/MadeByAMer — Kenny Dyal is the host of The Scuba Diving Podcast: TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@kenny_dyal Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sweetwater_scuba Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/realkennydyal LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/kennydyal X: https://twitter.com/RealKennyDyal www.sweetwaterscuba.com

This was the perfect dive convention between the DEMA Show and The Scuba Show, and was much bigger than I expected. Loaded with vendors ranging from Tusa to Aqualung, Stream2Sea to Fourth Element, and even Huish Outdoors (Atomic, Zeagle, Suunto, Oceanic and others). They also gave out prizes, had mermaids on the scene, and even free food trucks!Aggieland Scuba has outdone themselves in creating something that has become an instant staple, and probably too big to contain in College Station, TX. Join me as I cover the Dive Expo from start to finish, setup to teardown, interviewing staff, vendors, and speakers throughout the event!Special thanks to Aggieland Scuba for putting such an incredible community together for the entire underwater world! (and inviting me out)!The crowds never thinned out and the energy remained at a constant 110% throughout the entire day. The inaugural event has already outgrown itself, so I'm looking forward to seeing where next year's event goes!Be sure to check out their website for updates on the next Dive Expo!Also a big thanks to the incredibly kind staff, including co-owners Nathan Blanchard, Jennifer Opiela-Miksch, as well as Megan Blanchard who helped orchestrate my trip out.And finally a big thank you to Becca Ziegler, who was helping keep the cameras rolling, keeping me organized, sane, and hydrated!*I will update that info here when the 2025 event date and location are announced.To contact Aggieland Scuba:2151 Harvey Mitchell ParkwaySuite #109College StationTexas 77840https://www.aggielandscuba.com/https://www.tiktok.com/@aggielandscubahttps://www.instagram.com/aggielandscubahttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsnaxodLj7dbpYhJfQQReqwhttps://www.facebook.com/aggielandscuba—Kenny Dyal is the host of The Scuba Diving Podcast:TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@kenny_dyalInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/sweetwater_scubaFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/realkennydyalLinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/kennydyalX: https://twitter.com/RealKennyDyalwww.sweetwaterscuba.com

Jennifer Opiela-Miksch is a co-owner of AggieLand Scuba, a full-service retail dive shop in College Station, Texas. She's running a success story of financial AND personal growth, with the simple ingredient to growing the store and enjoying the job revealed here in this interview. Jennifer has also helped launch the Dive Expo for their 10 year anniversary. This is a community of scuba retail, equipment service, liveaboard charters, mermaid schools and of course scuba training and trips. The Dive Expo is quickly growing into the “stop gap” between the Scuba Show and DEMA, with the convenience of being in the middle of the country.  The DIVE EXPO is Saturday, August 24th, 2024 from 9am-5pm at Aggieland Scuba: 2151 Harvey Mitchell Parkway Suite #109 College Station Texas 77840 https://www.aggielandscuba.com/ https://www.tiktok.com/@aggielandscuba https://www.instagram.com/aggielandscuba https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsnaxodLj7dbpYhJfQQReqw https://www.facebook.com/aggielandscuba — Kenny Dyal is the host of The Scuba Diving Podcast: TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@kenny_dyal Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sweetwater_scuba Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/realkennydyal LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/kennydyal X: https://twitter.com/RealKennyDyal www.sweetwaterscuba.com

Finally, you can find somebody to dive with. Even better, you can find divers in your area that have similar interests and skills! Kenny jumps on a video call with Alexis to discuss exciting new technology that links divers up with each other. The new “Radar” feature notifies you of divers in your area. You can chat, dive together, just ask questions about the area… but it's divers talking to divers, and this is incredible. This is worth talking about because it has officially been released! PS -don't forget to find and add me on Buddy! – Download Buddy App for iOS https://apps.apple.com/us/app/buddy-dive-log-community/id1588860327 Download Buddy App for Android https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.divewithbuddy.app&pli=1 https://www.tiktok.com/@divewithbuddy https://www.instagram.com/divewithbuddy/ — Kenny Dyal is the host of The Scuba Diving Podcast: TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@kenny_dyal Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sweetwater_scuba Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/realkennydyal LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/kennydyal X: https://twitter.com/RealKennyDyal www.sweetwaterscuba.com

Epic underwater photography and videography are some of the incredible accomplishments of Kewin Lorenzen. He's a shark conservationist, cave diving explorer, tech diver, artist, and above all, an underwater photographer. He's shot several renowned videos and photos for TV programs and sits on the board of directors for “People of the Water”, a non-profit dedicated to strengthening human understanding of our oceans. Finally, he works together with his spouse, Cristina Zenato, who is famously known for her underwater work with sharks. We discuss tricks to becoming a better underwater photographer, videographer, cave diving, and of course, the challenges of working together as a couple. Kewin is originally from Denmark and now lives and works with Cristina in the Bahamas. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kewinlorenzen/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kewin.lorenzen/ Kewin Lorenzen Website: http://kewinlorenzen.com/ People of the Water: https://pownonprofit.org/ – Kenny Dyal is the host of The Scuba Diving Podcast: TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@kenny_dyal Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sweetwater_scuba Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/realkennydyal LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/kennydyal X: https://twitter.com/RealKennyDyal www.sweetwaterscuba.com

Captain G was the most popular boat captain I have ever seen. Guests would arrive like old friends calling him by name. So after visiting the Amoray Dive Resort in Key Largo for another interview, I just had to interview the famous Captain G. Before the interview, I had the opportunity to go out on two dive drive trips, totalling 4 dives in a single day. He was our captain for both trips, and was fantastic. He had the boat laughing at briefings, never missed a beat, and was approachable. He always seemed to be enjoying himself, and the crew loved him as well. The boat captain plays a major role in ocean diving, especially with new divers and even classes. Keeping your cool in tense situations with lots of people doing different things from a large dive boat… and for decades on end? That is an art. I also watched him load and unload several other trips just below my balcony the days following, and it was always entertaining. One of the most memorable elements of our stay at Amoray Dive Center was watching the boat come and go twice a day, and third time when they had a sunset cruise or even a night dive.  You can find him on Facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/captg.rio From my previous interview with Amoray Dive Resort, they sent me a code to put in the description for a discount when staying with them. I've copy/pasted it here into this description as well:) Rate code: sweetwater10 Booking link: https://hotels.cloudbeds.com/reservation/o1m6rL#promo=sweetwater10 104250 Overseas Highway Key Largo, FL 33037 Reservations: 800-426-6729 Phone: 305-451-3595 amoraydive@amoray.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amoraydiveresort/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/amoraydiveresort – Kenny Dyal is the host of The Scuba Diving Podcast: TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@kenny_dyal Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sweetwater_scuba Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/realkennydyal LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/kennydyal X: https://twitter.com/RealKennyDyal www.sweetwaterscuba.com

Amoray Dive Resort is the only dedicated dive resort in the Florida Keys.  In fact, Key Largo is considered the “Scuba Diving Capital of the World”. Jeff Gneiser (and his wife, Cynthia) own the PADI 5 Star Dive Operation that operates with the resort. Jeff sat down with me to tell the story of how they've renovated and expanded the facility, and what it takes to be a 2023 and 2024 award-winning dive operation. They took us to the reefs and the famous Spiegel Grove shipwreck, and we stayed a few nights at the resort. After seeing some of the local sites like The History of Diving Museum (and feeding the tarpon at Robbie's) we even had dinner with the two of them at what is now our new favorite waterside dive. This is someone who has it together and loves his work. If you want a peek into what the dream looks like, this is it. For a discount offered directly by the resort: Rate code: sweetwater10 Booking link: https://hotels.cloudbeds.com/reservation/o1m6rL#promo=sweetwater10 104250 Overseas Highway Key Largo, FL 33037 Reservations: 800-426-6729 Phone: 305-451-3595 amoraydive@amoray.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amoraydiveresort/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/amoraydiveresort – Kenny Dyal is the host of The Scuba Diving Podcast: TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@kenny_dyal Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sweetwater_scuba Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/realkennydyal LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/kennydyal X: https://twitter.com/RealKennyDyal www.sweetwaterscuba.com

Liz Parkinson is, in my humble opinion, the world's greatest underwater stunt performer, athlete, and real-life Aquaman (and by Aquaman I mean Aquawoman!) You might be shocked how she ended up in movies, and what led her to being the “go to” in-water trainer for A-list celebrities. If you're James Cameron and you need the best person in the world to perform your underwater stunts for a billion dollar movie franchise, you'd better call Liz.  If you don't think being involved with waterspouts like free diving and scuba diving will never open any big doors, just remember this: Liz was Oscar-nominated for Outstanding Action Performance by a Stunt Ensemble in a Motion Picture in 2023 for Avatar: The Way of Water She's worked on documentaries (such as the Netflix mini-series Thai Cave Rescue) as well as movies ranging from Black Panther to Fast and Furious F9 Saga and beyond. She professionally conducts in-water safety, instruction, performances, and stunts for stars such as Kate Winslet, Sigourney Weaver, and Hugh Jackman (to name a few). If Shaq needs someone in the water for the next Shark Week, he calls Liz Parkinson. If there was ever a true Jedi Knight of the underwater world, you have found her. We were both at the literal very end of the DEMA show but managed to link up and talk for a few minutes about how she does what she does. - Liz Parkinson IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm4433884/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lizparkinson1/ PADI Profile: https://blog.padi.com/living-large-with-padi-pro-liz-parkinson/ — Kenny Dyal is the host of The Scuba Diving Podcast: TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@kenny_dyal Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sweetwater_scuba Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/realkennydyal LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/kennydyal Twitter: https://twitter.com/RealKennyDyal www.sweetwaterscuba.com

In this episode we go inside the hyperbaric chamber, and ask everything you'd ever want to know about actually going in! Or, as owner and operator Mitch Hall puts it, “going down”. The hyperbaric chambers are used not only to treat scuba diving related injuries, but heal wounds and have other benefits to your health. He explains what it all means, how they work, and has some very surprising stories about some past divers that got into trouble (and a cautionary tale to those cavalier divers out there!) He gave me a tour of the entire facility, and we had way too much fun doing it! Website: https://www.hyperbaricstaugustine.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hyperbaric_staugustine Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HyperbaricStAugustine/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HyperbaricStAugustine — Kenny Dyal is the host of The Scuba Diving Podcast: TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@kenny_dyal Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sweetwater_scuba Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/realkennydyal LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/kennydyal Twitter: https://twitter.com/RealKennyDyal www.sweetwaterscuba.com

Divers Alert Network's (DAN) marketing director Steve Jamroz gives us a peek behind the curtain of the world's most famous SCUBA organization. DAN helps develop treatments, preventions, best practices and insurance for diving related accidents, illnesses, and even trip or business losses. They research prevention on everything from equipment safety to Decompression Sickness (DCS), as well as new training techniques. DAN also has a free Medical Services department you can call anytime to ask about potential conditions that could prevent you from diving. Their medical professionals can also offer guidance to your own doctor, whereas they may be unfamiliar with diving-specific health considerations. Steve and Kenny have a casual discussion about life at the DAN organization, workplace culture, marketing their product, and of course, the DEMA after-parties they've become famous for. Follow or contact them on all major social channels listed on their website below: https://dan.org/ Medical Services: +1-919-684-2948 Monday–Friday, 8:30 a.m.–5 p.m. ET Phone: Option 4 Online: Ask a Medic Divers Alert Network customer service: +1-919-684-2948 Monday–Friday, 8:30 a.m.–5 p.m. ET — Kenny Dyal is the host of The Scuba Diving Podcast: TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@kenny_dyal Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sweetwater_scuba LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/kennydyal Twitter: https://twitter.com/RealKennyDyal www.sweetwaterscuba.com

In this showcase episode of the Buddy App, we go after the CORE reason the dive industry struggles to produce income earners: connection. The top question I get is “where do you suggest I go?” or “where can I learn to dive in my area?” or “who has dive trips around that area?” Despite all of the search engines on our smartphones and apps, this question is still going strong. This feature of the buddy app let's dive shops, charters, resorts and even Independent Scuba Instructors create their own platform to connect with divers, and gets them found by divers. It is (finally) a TRUE hub for the diving community. It benefits divers, students, organizations and businesses, so everyone wins by being connected. No weird or awkward groups to join on some website or social platform you really don't want - just divers connecting in the easiest way possible. The Buddy Dive Log app has everything else in a dive log, like social media links, tipping functions, galleries, filters, and even validates your dives certifications and professional status (with all agencies like PADI, NAUI, SSI, SDI, CMAS, and more). So you can connect on so many other levels as well. Professional Divers, Operators, Facilities, Resorts, or Dive Shops: Get Buddy for Business (including the Booking Platform) https://buddyforbusiness.com – Download Buddy App for iOS https://apps.apple.com/us/app/buddy-dive-log-community/id1588860327 Download Buddy App for Android https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.divewithbuddy.app&pli=1 https://www.tiktok.com/@divewithbuddy https://www.instagram.com/divewithbuddy/ — Kenny Dyal is the host of The Scuba Diving Podcast: TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@kenny_dyal Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sweetwater_scuba Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/realkennydyal LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/kennydyal Twitter: https://twitter.com/RealKennyDyal www.sweetwaterscuba.com

There's been a longstanding rift between Technical Diving and Recreational Diving in some circles, but does it have to be like that? Not according to Chris Foisey aka "The Modern Diver" -host of one of the largest scuba equipment review channels on the internet. He explains the importance of learning proper finning, trim and buoyancy, but also gets the value of fun (HINT: It's the whole reason we do this) Chris is easily the most relaxed, educated, and easy-to-listen-to gear critic out there, with thoughtful breakdowns that let the diver actually make decisions for themselves, vs just an opinionated "this is what I think" monologue. I learn something EVERY single time I watch his videos, so it was a joy to finally speak to him in real time for this interview. We hit all the hot button topics like teaching on the knees, Backplate and Wing for Open Water training, and why some dive shops behave so differently than others. But perhaps the most valuable conversation of all, is HOW to bridge that gap between Recreational Diving and the Tec Diver crowd. Chris is a breath of fresh air, and is leading the way toward a more symbiotic world of diving. Find Chris Foisey as The Modern Diver on your favorite platforms: Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwl5K524RhkyyRh-HRNOhEg Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/modern_diver_channel/?hl=en Main Website: https://www.moderndiverchannel.com/ — Kenny Dyal is the host of The Scuba Diving Podcast: TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@kenny_dyal Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sweetwater_scuba Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/realkennydyal LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/kennydyal Twitter: https://twitter.com/RealKennyDyal www.sweetwaterscuba.com

Strong opinions, confusion, and being overwhelmed with getting started are all part of this beast… The good news is we have an absolute GAME CHANGER: Once and for all, the dive gear dilemma of not knowing where to go, who to talk to, or where to even start is OVER. Alexis Jabbour, founder of The Buddy App, talks about how dive gear is now connecting people through sharing. Anyone can add gear to their dive log (even if it's rental) so nothing gets lost. Dive buddies can see what their friends are wearing and literally click on it to learn more, including links to buy it right then and there. Influencers, Dive Shops and “Buddy Explorers” even have ways to add their affiliate links or get sponsored gear directly on their profile. Professional can even link back to their home dive shop! Buddy is quickly changing the landscape for diving, making it easier and more accessible for more people. This revolutionary dive app is streamlining the entire gear debacle that's gone on far too long. The Buddy Dive Log app has everything else in a dive log divers need to get the most out of this lifestyle: Social media links, tipping functions, galleries, filters, and even validation of your dives, including a place to verify your certifications and professional status (with all agencies like PADI, NAUI, SSI, SDI, CMAS, and more). Go check out the App and don't forget to add me as a Buddy! Professional Divers, Operators, Facilities, Resorts, or Dive Shops: Get Buddy for Business (including the Booking Platform) https://buddyforbusiness.com – Download Buddy App for iOS https://apps.apple.com/us/app/buddy-dive-log-community/id1588860327 Download Buddy App for Android https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.divewithbuddy.app&pli=1 https://www.tiktok.com/@divewithbuddy https://www.instagram.com/divewithbuddy/ — Kenny Dyal is the host of The Scuba Diving Podcast: TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@kenny_dyal Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sweetwater_scuba Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/realkennydyal LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/kennydyal Twitter: https://twitter.com/RealKennyDyal www.sweetwaterscuba.com

Alannah Vellacott is truly a creature of the Caribbean Waters, in every possible sense. She's been famously dubbed "The Real Life Little Mermaid" by many notable figures, and for good reason. Aside from freediving, scuba diving, working on several Shark Week episodes, and simply living the Island Life we all dream about… she actually works to preserve and rebuild the very world that sustains her lifestyle (and the planet, for that matter!) Land Based Coral restoration with Coral Vita is a unique process that she explains with great enthusiasm during our interview. It's a system that allows coral to grow up to 50 times faster than it would in the wild, helping revitalize dead or dying reefs. Alannah is wildly connected, seen working with the likes of André Musgrove, Cristina Zenato, Scuba Radio, and even Samuel Jackson.  A flagship citizen of Grand Bahama Island, Alannah is armed with a B.Sc. in Biological Sciences, with an extensive resumé ranging from Cape Eleuthra Institute, BREEF, Perry institute for Marine Sciences, and a Scuba Instructor with over 16 years of diving. I got to hang out with Alannah at The 2023 DEMA show in New Orleans, where she not only represented Coral Vita, but put on a show with fellow Mermaids bringing an incredibly fun vibe to the festivities. BIG THANK YOU: All underwater footage, facility footage and drone footage of Coral Restoration and Bahamas footage courtesy of Coral Vita. Alannah's contact info: IG: https://www.instagram.com/alannahvellacott/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@alannahvellacott Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/alannahvellacott Coral Vita Website: https://www.coralvita.co/ Alannah Vellacott Personal Website: https://www.alannahvellacott.com/ — Kenny Dyal is the host of The Scuba Diving Podcast: TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@kenny_dyal Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sweetwater_scuba Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/realkennydyal LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/kennydyal Twitter: https://twitter.com/RealKennyDyal www.sweetwaterscuba.com

Ellie is as charming as she is talented, with more big scuba names under her belt than… maybe anyone. Known by her screen name as “Scuba Ellie”, she's responsible for connecting Scuba Diving with the rest of the world in profound way. She works using brilliant visual photography, videography, editing, and just being awesome at diving. She creates content for the dive industry full-time, she's a Scuba Instructor, and dives everything from the tropics to drysuits, aluminums to doubles. Ellie discusses how to handle social media burnout, negative comments, and of course what NOW fills her cup. If you're like so many people trying to build your brand or following, she shares some sage advice for any creative diver that's willing to listen. I was fortunate enough to spend some time with her at the DEMA show, sit on a panel discussing social media with the dive industry, and finally, the after parties from Deeper Blue to Bourbon Street.  PS: I'm still waiting on that scuba skating video… Ellie's contact info: Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@scubaellie IG: https://www.instagram.com/scubaellie/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@scubaellie Girls that Scuba Podcast- Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3V4xukj4zRBu2cwkDipzlo?si=311597e7d56a4927 Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/girls-talk-scuba/id1678990880 — Kenny Dyal is the host of The Scuba Diving Podcast: TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@kenny_dyal Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sweetwater_scuba Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/realkennydyal LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/kennydyal Twitter: https://twitter.com/RealKennyDyal www.sweetwaterscuba.com

Ed Rasmussen is part of the Scubapro Team, including the Deep Elite Global Team, a Scubapro global government manager. Ed was also an active Navy Seal, who went on regular deployments. He is now a Divemaster, helping to liaison the recreational dive industry with defense departments, law enforcement, and emergency services. Ed is a big supporter of those who served in the Armed Forces. He's received an avalanche of subscribers to his now-iconic Instagram page @ ecrazz -loaded with facts and historical video ranging from equipment breakdowns to covert operation footage. Ed now enjoys diving for the sheer joy of it, bringing a wealth of expertise,  experience, and valued perspective that very few get to hear. He was as pleasant as he was knowledgeable to finally meet in person, and I'm fortunate to say I have a new friend in the diving world. Read more about Ed on the official Scubapro site: https://scubapro.johnsonoutdoors.com/us/global-dive-team/ed-rasmussen Follow his IG here: https://www.instagram.com/ecrazz/ — Kenny Dyal is the host of The Scuba Diving Podcast: TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@kenny_dyal Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sweetwater_scuba Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/realkennydyal LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/kennydyal Twitter: https://twitter.com/RealKennyDyal www.sweetwaterscuba.com

Kenny sits down with the founder of Deeper Blue, the world's largest community for scuba divers. Stephan is larger than life, throwing the number one party to be at during the number one scuba diving gathering on the planet. His love of the ocean flows like a perfect cocktail. Always upbeat, hilarious, and seems to be close friends with the entire worldwide scuba industry (I'm kind of not kidding). He explains what DeeperBlue does, how it got started, the future, and what he would love to see improve in the dive industry as a whole.  His passion for scuba and freediving is on full display everywhere he goes. Not only during our interview, but throughout the DEMA show, and pretty much anywhere else there was fun happening… Stephan was there. Never an ego or point to prove, just a fun-loving, water-obsessed human being. Further (and by total coincidence) Stephan & Kenny were both invited to a Panel for social media influencers to discuss with the audience some of their secrets to success. The event took place at the DEMA convention center in New Orleans, hosted by the scuba legend Tec Clark. Friends were made, good times were had, and the whole Sweetwater crew hopes to follow up again for more of Stephan and DeeperBlue! DeeperBlue has an app, a podcast, news articles, forums, and an absolutely stellar social media presence. If there is something happening in the world of diving, Deeper Blue is a part of it.  Main website: https://www.deeperblue.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/deeperbluedotcom Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/deeperbluegram Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/deeperbluevideo DeeperBlue App- Apple: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/deeperblue-com/id894987002 Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.mobiloud.android.deeperblue&pcampaignid=web_share — Kenny Dyal is the host of The Scuba Diving Podcast: TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@kenny_dyal Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sweetwater_scuba Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/realkennydyal LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/kennydyal Twitter: https://twitter.com/RealKennyDyal www.sweetwaterscuba.com

Chef Anton is an Award-winning magician who can actually teach and certify a PADI scuba specialty course using underwater magic! He uses magic to help make scuba diving concepts easier to understand, relieve anxiety, and foster better learning. Further, it helps paint a better picture of concepts like nitrogen buildup, compression and expansion, and all those core fundamentals that can be tough to grasp for new divers. Aside from making learning easier, underwater magic makes everything a LOT more fun! I was completely mesmerized during this interview. He performed REAL magic tricks right in front of me and the crew (And I promise, no camera tricks!) He's an IDC staff instructor, offering a real specialty certification for scuba diving professionals, and specialty certification for scuba diving students, along with an underwater magic starter pack. His execution is just as impressive as his welcoming, warm, and hilariously charming personality. In fact, one of his recent scuba students, Avery Fisher, not only learned how to do magic, but performed so well she literally broke the world record for most magic tricks performed underwater (38 tricks in 3 minutes)! As if that wasn't impressive enough, shes only 13 years old! See the offical Guinness World record page here: https://www.guinnessworldrecords.com/news/commercial/2023/11/young-scuba-diver-plunges-head-first-into-new-magic-hobby-to-break-underwater-rec-761221  Chef Anton's Scuba Magician website: https://scubamagician.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scubamagician/ Youtube:  https://www.youtube.com/@scubamagician3354 ChefAnton@ScubaMagician.com See the Guinness world record holder Avery Fisher's underwater magic video: https://youtu.be/54jUjRVIZhg?si=uEnmaM85DqJM6cwR — Kenny Dyal is the host of The Scuba Diving Podcast: TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@kenny_dyal Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sweetwater_scuba Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/realkennydyal LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/kennydyal Twitter: https://twitter.com/RealKennyDyal www.sweetwaterscuba.com

A fixture in the Daytona Beach area, Don Bouer has one of the most unusual takes on just about anything water related. He's a master of aquatics, spending decades protecting swimmers & tourists in one of the busiest beaches in Florida, which also happens to be the home of the shark attack capital of the world, New Smyrna Beach (Ponce Inlet). It's also known as a dangerous area for swimmers due to the currents, waves, rip tides and tidal changes, combined with such a high number of annual visitors. Don teaches scuba diving, swimming, and seems to know someone everywhere we turn. He's eccentric, fun, full of energy and his positive outlook on the world around him is beyond contagious. You can't help but have a good time and feel like there's something good about everyone and everything after spending just a few hours with him. His answers are reliably atypical, and even his (casual) independent scuba instruction company name is called “Aquatic Alternative”. He teaches private scuba lessons at both his customers' and his own pace, and isn't afraid to take whatever time is needed. Don answers questions ranging from swim tests, teaching scuba on the knees, backplate and wing, and peeing in the wetsuit. He also drops his opinion on why scuba diving has been so male dominated (although changing for the better), and of course just about anything else you'd wanna know. At 77 years old at the time of this interview, he finally tells us exactly what he's looking forward to the most (and it's worth the wait). Don is a people person, and just flat out a fun human being to be around. He was one of the first-ever interviews on this show, so I HAD to pay my respects and see what he's been up to for the last 2.5 years. Just before filming, we had an unexpected move to the ocean beachfront. So apologies for the wind noise…I got rid of some of it, but hopefully doesn't detract too much! Don can be contacted at https://www.instagram.com/bouerdon/ Or https://www.facebook.com/don.bouer — Kenny Dyal is the host of The Scuba Diving Podcast: TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@kenny_dyal Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sweetwater_scuba Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/realkennydyal LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/kennydyal Twitter: https://twitter.com/RealKennyDyal www.sweetwaterscuba.com

This is the only app that verifies and works for ALL agencies. So any active professional can verify any diver, on any dive. The other big thing that caught my attention was the fact that in books- a signature or stamp leaves with the diver or student- so there's no way for that professional to show how many logs they've verified, and they both lose contact as soon as that book closes. I'm 100% all for these, vs paper that can get lost, destroyed, and doesn't keep that connection on both ends. As a professional or dive instructor, you only need to fill out one log for the dive, then send out for validation to your divers or students. That alone sold me on this feature! Although I've already interviewed Alexis in Hawaii (on site) about this app, I keep finding new things that make it special, and are worth discussing on my channel. With the official 2023 Summer now entering the holiday season, Buddy is making waves throughout the industry as a disruptive platform that's quickly changing the landscape for scuba divers. The world of diving is going to look very different 1-2 years from now, with the rapid adoption of the Buddy platform. The Buddy Dive Log app has the best of all the agencies like PADI, SSI, NAUI, and goes well beyond the capabilities of Manufacturer apps like Garmin, Suunto, Apple Watch and many others. It combines all the features into one, without those barriers that divide the already-small industry even smaller. Connecting buddies of ALL agencies is the skeleton key of all future growth. It's clean, works smoothly, easy to use, and is easily the most comprehensive diver app YET. It got me excited enough to continue interviewing and discussing this incredible new tool.  Not to worry, it's even set up for those that aren't certified yet, so literally anyone can download this app (and of course, it's free). If you'd like to contribute, submit your own story, or maybe even write for Buddy, go directly to their website, or click here: https://divewithbuddy.com/discoverstories Professional Divers, Operators, Facilities, Resorts, or Dive Shops: Get Buddy for Business https://buddyforbusiness.com – Download Buddy App for iOS https://apps.apple.com/us/app/buddy-dive-log-community/id1588860327 Download Buddy App for Android https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.divewithbuddy.app&pli=1 https://www.tiktok.com/@divewithbuddy https://www.instagram.com/divewithbuddy/ — Kenny Dyal is the host of The Scuba Diving Podcast: TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@kenny_dyal Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sweetwater_scuba Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/realkennydyal LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/kennydyal Twitter: https://twitter.com/RealKennyDyal www.sweetwaterscuba.com

"OMGitswicks" tries scuba diving with Kenny and the Sweetwater Crew, and lives to sit down and talk about it! Not only do we talk about that first experience scuba diving, but what it's like running a social media personality with millions of followers, and making content everyday. In fact, some swimmers down at a remote freshwater spring in Florida immediately recognized him while we were getting ready to dive. Wicks is just as funny in person as he is with his sketch comedy, and wild Florida observations. We talk gators, crocodiles, hurricanes, Big Summer vs Summer Jr, and of course, Super Humidity. I also asked him his favorite character, favorite post, and when he felt like it went big. Finally, OMGitswicks hints at what's coming around the corner, Publix, and of course the Blue Crab that had it out for him. This was the funniest interview I've ever had the pleasure of doing, I hope you have as much fun as I did! Make sure to follow his channels, Plus let him know how you felt about this interview by joining him on his very regular LIVE shows! (on all platforms) Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6tkMmQhGztI28XMuKslGwg Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/omgitswicks/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@omgitswicks Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/omgitswicks239 Get the scuba t-shirt: https://omgitswicks.threadless.com/designs/scuba-wicks/mens/t-shirt/premium?color=black — Kenny Dyal is the host of The Scuba Diving Podcast: TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@kenny_dyal Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sweetwater_scuba Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/realkennydyal LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/kennydyal Twitter: https://twitter.com/RealKennyDyal www.sweetwaterscuba.com

Kenny was invited in-studio to interview the host of Scuba Radio, Greg “The Divemaster” Holt. Founded in 1997, Scuba Radio is the oldest (and only) nationally syndicated terrestrial radio show for scuba divers (that's like OG radio on the dial!) His interpretation of why people go scuba diving gives some serious food for thought. We discuss motivations for going scuba diving, why people tune into his show, golf vs scuba, some issues facing the dive industry, and even the late Jimmy Buffett. This whole show is basically a bunch of divers talking about diving at a waterside Tiki Bar. Scuba Radio is fun, energetic, doesn't take itself too seriously, and just about anyone can get on the show if they ask nicely (hey, they even had me on!) Scuba Radio airs LIVE every Saturday  LIVE number:  1-888-88-SCUBA Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/live/2sSjx97ekyc?si=jeOpg09OrMi2177a Listen to ALL of the episodes on your favorite podcast channels: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4Ep37qEIEjHBOmRewm2ukQ?si=722ee3ebc35141df Apple Podcasts: https://itunes.apple.com/podcast/scuba-radio/id73800944?mt=2&ls=1 Google Podcasts: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9zY3ViYXJhZGlvLmNvbS9mZWVkL3BvZGNhc3Qv Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scuba.radio/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/scubaradio Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063727054505 https://scubaradio.com/ — Kenny Dyal is the host of The Scuba Diving Podcast: TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@kenny_dyal Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sweetwater_scuba Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/realkennydyal LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/kennydyal Twitter: https://twitter.com/RealKennyDyal www.sweetwaterscuba.com

In my continuing showcase series of the Buddy App, we talk about Social Media and the integration of the “Sharebuilder” feature. While the app's ability to integrate with social media accounts might seem like a meager topic on the surface - social is now the bloodline of Scuba Diving interest, and is indispensable for attracting new divers. We discuss the importance of social (for all its flaws) in diving, due to its visual nature. Alexis and her Buddy team did not overlook this critical element of the diving community, and went above and beyond. Although I've already interviewed Alexis in Hawaii (on site) about this app, I keep finding new things that make it special, and are worth discussing on my channel. With the official 2023 Summer launch completing its fourth month in existence, Buddy is making waves throughout the industry as a disruptive platform that's quickly changing the landscape for divers, freedivers, and snorkelers. The world of diving is going to look very different 1-2 years from now, with the rapid adoption of the Buddy platform. The Buddy Dive Log app has the best of all the agencies like PADI, SSI, NAUI, and goes well beyond the capabilities of Manufacturer apps like Garmin, Suunto, Apple Watch and many others. It combines all the features into one, without those barriers that divide the already-small industry even smaller. Connecting buddies of ALL agencies is the skeleton key of all future growth. It's clean, works smoothly, easy to use, and is easily the most comprehensive diver app YET. It got me excited enough to continue interviewing and discussing this incredible new tool.  Not to worry, it's even set up for those that aren't certified yet, so literally anyone can download this app (and of course, it's free). If you'd like to contribute, submit your own story, or maybe even write for Buddy, go directly to their website, or click here: https://divewithbuddy.com/discoverstories Professional Divers, Operators, Facilities, Resorts, or Dive Shops: Get Buddy for Business https://buddyforbusiness.com – Download Buddy App for iOS https://apps.apple.com/us/app/buddy-dive-log-community/id1588860327 Download Buddy App for Android https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.divewithbuddy.app&pli=1 https://www.tiktok.com/@divewithbuddy https://www.instagram.com/divewithbuddy/ — Kenny Dyal is the host of The Scuba Diving Podcast: TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@kenny_dyal Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sweetwater_scuba Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/realkennydyal LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/kennydyal Twitter: https://twitter.com/RealKennyDyal www.sweetwaterscuba.com

After reading a highly compelling blog by Independent Scuba Instructor Taylor Schott, I had to have her as a Guest on the show.  We've seen this argument before, but not so eloquently explained. In fact, her blog was so well-written that I tracked her down and actually convinced her to come talk to me about it.  The pros and cons are laid out in an unbiased, friendly way, and nobody is being “put down” or lambasted for having a different opinion than Taylor. That vibe (and temperament) is something we need more of in the dive industry, and it was absolutely refreshing to know this is the future of scuba diving. Not only did she explain it in a convincing way from a training aspect, but also from the oft-neglected business perspective as well. She just makes a lot of sense. She's a well-trained scuba instructor, cave diver, and freediver, with her own independent training company called “Schottsie's Scuba”. She teaches private open water scuba lessons, and beyond. A direct link to her blog can be found here: https://www.schottsiesscuba.com/post/bcd-s-backplate-wing-vs-jacket-style   Website: https://www.schottsiesscuba.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/scubaschott Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/schottsies_scuba/ — Kenny Dyal is the host of The Scuba Diving Podcast: TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@kenny_dyal Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sweetwater_scuba Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/realkennydyal LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/kennydyal Twitter: https://twitter.com/RealKennyDyal www.sweetwaterscuba.com

The Sweetwater crew ran into Crosskix VP Mike Beverly, and decided this was worth the interview. His company makes a washable, high-end shoe that works in water AND in your dive fins. It keeps debris out, can be hosed down, and drains in an almost entertaining way. These are THE shoes used by major cruise lines like Norwegian and Carnival, waterpark and resort staff, and even Universal Studios.  Mike let us ransack his booth, took the time to walk us through the details, and might have even bought us beers while we walked the showroom floor. This is a game changer for those warm water divers walking beaches, gravel, jetties, and just long distances to their dive sites, no booties needed!   Website: https://crosskix.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Crosskix/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/crosskix/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCuIoApsghcrVqFrpjt7m7vA TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@crosskix — Kenny Dyal is the host of The Scuba Diving Podcast: TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@kenny_dyal Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sweetwater_scuba Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/realkennydyal LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/kennydyal Twitter: https://twitter.com/RealKennyDyal www.sweetwaterscuba.com

Autumn Blum started Stream2Sea in 2015, in rural Florida. Her factory opened in 2019, just before the pandemic. She almost lost her business due to the sudden halt of orders from cruise lines and recreation, but found a creative way to save her business, and grew it even bigger (the full story is toward the end of the interview, so make sure to stick around for the epic solution! HINT: Orange peels) Stream2Sea is now the gold standard of eco-minded (and healthy) sunblock and skin products in stores, ranging from Whole Foods to the most reputable scuba dive shops around the world. It was even endorsed by Richard Branson! As an avid scuba diver -and Cosmetic Chemist- Autumn witnessed first-hand the effects of toxic sunblock (including mask anti fog and baby shampoo). She decided to do something about it. She created the only mineral based sunscreen on the planet that's been tested and proven safe for freshwater fish, saltwater fish, and coral larvae, and has passed the stringent HEL Labs Protect Land + Sea certification. Autumn takes what she does seriously, works hard, and as an absolute cherry on top, gave our crew an enthusiastic tour of the factory. She partners with organizations like 4Ocean, has gone before the Senate, and is active in conservation efforts. Finally, we found her company because we actually USE her mask defog on the daily at our other various jobs, and while leading and teaching scuba divers.   Website: https://stream2sea.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/stream2sea Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stream2sea/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/Stream2Sea — Kenny Dyal is the host of The Scuba Diving Podcast: TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@kenny_dyal Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sweetwater_scuba Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/realkennydyal LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/kennydyal Twitter: https://twitter.com/RealKennyDyal www.sweetwaterscuba.com

Yasmin talks about artistic inspiration for everyone's favorite underwater art! Fin Pin Shop is officially the center of the universe at every trade show (Shark Con and DEMA to name a few) and of course they're in popular dive shops and ocean-themed gift shops from sea to shining sea! This isn't just a scuba diver wonderland of art and trinkets, Fin Pin is made and supported by Marine Biologists (like Yasmin and Jaclyn), conservationists and artists. They have a massive online and social media presence, donate to a MULTITUDE of wildlife and aquarium charities, plus use smart and sustainable packaging and materials! How does one dominate an industry with pins, stickers, and other fun goodies? Yasmin Greene walks me through the artistic process, hurdles and excitement of dominating what many would consider a niche business, and a crowded market. Yasmin runs Fin Pin along with her “partner-in-crime” Jaclyn (interview a few episodes back S3 Episode 11)  They combined forces, producing a constant flow of ocean-themed fun (oh, and of course plenty of Life Aquatic with Steve Zissou themed merch to go around!) Probably my favorite part of the interview was her explaining their soft spot for the “underdog” species' (like the Batfish and Blobfish!) and even use a Mola Mola fish as their main logo. If you can turn the Batfish and Horshoe Crab into fun… I think you may have something there. This interview is sure to impress and entertain any ocean, marine or aquatic enthusiast. Yasmin has a Bachelor's degree from the University of Tampa in Marine Biology, a Master's degree from Drexel University in Environmental Science, and an MBA from Florida International University. She loves Manta Rays, cats, frog fish, and churning out puns. Website: https://finpinshop.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/finpinshop Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/finpinshop/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/finpinshop LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jaclyn-gerakios/ — Kenny Dyal is the host of The Scuba Diving Podcast: TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@kenny_dyal Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sweetwater_scuba Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/realkennydyal LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/kennydyal Twitter: https://twitter.com/RealKennyDyal www.sweetwaterscuba.com

RJ is the fiancé to owner and creator of Spacefish Army (Morgan Oughton). However, RJ was there from the beginning, behind-the-scenes, offering support, labor, and rolling with the wild turns of life. From a secret relationship on a live aboard charter (for NINE months!), to launching a clothing line, and now helping with trade shows, RJ explains how they both work so well together, stay happy, and continue to grow everyone's favorite outerwear brand.  – Make sure to watch (or listen to) the Interview that started it all with Spacefish Army: S3:E09 and the earlier S2:E26 And of course, go check out their EPIC line forged from the rigors of scuba liveaboard life! Website: https://spacefisharmy.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spacefisharmy/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/spacefisharmy TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@spacefisharmy A special thank you to Katie, Becca, Robin, Will, Tina, Dee, Morgan and RJ for making the trip out to Rainbow River FL for this B-roll film shoot… I had so much fun with you all! – Kenny Dyal is the host of The Scuba Diving Podcast: TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@kenny_dyal Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sweetwater_scuba LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/kennydyal Twitter: https://twitter.com/RealKennyDyal www.sweetwaterscuba.com

In this showcase series we talk about the most innovative integration into a dive app ever created - the Discover Feed.  This is truly a hub, newsfeed, and showcase for scuba divers to get a pulse on the community, dive industry, and most importantly, what their buddies are doing. I just keep getting more excited about this app every time a new update drop. If you'd like to contribute, submit your own story, or maybe even write for Buddy, go directly to their website, or click here: https://divewithbuddy.com/discoverstories Although I've already interviewed Alexis in Hawaii about this app on numerous topics, I keep finding new things that make it special and are worth discussing. With the official 2023 Summer launch nearing its third month in existence, Buddy is making waves throughout the industry as a disruptive platform that's quickly changing the landscape for divers, freedivers, and snorkelers. The world of diving is going to look very different 1-2 years from now, with the rapid adoption of the Buddy platform. The Buddy Dive Log app has the best of all the agencies like PADI, SSI, NAUI, and goes well beyond the capabilities of Manufacturer apps like Garmin, Suunto, Apple Watch and many others. It combines all the features into one, without those barriers that divide the already-small industry even smaller. Connecting buddies of ALL agencies is the skeleton key of all future growth. It's clean, works smoothly, easy to use, and is easily the most comprehensive diver app YET. It got me excited enough to continue interviewing and discussing this incredible new tool.  Not to worry, it's even set up for those that aren't certified yet, so literally anyone can download this app (and of course, it's free). BONUS: There's a program to help you make more money by getting people to sign up! Become a “Buddy Pro” and start growing your following NOW:  Professional Divers, Operators, Facilities, Resorts, or Dive Shops: Get Buddy for Business https://buddyforbusiness.com – Download Buddy App for iOS https://apps.apple.com/us/app/buddy-dive-log-community/id1588860327 Download Buddy App for Android https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.divewithbuddy.app&pli=1 https://www.tiktok.com/@divewithbuddy https://www.instagram.com/divewithbuddy/ — Kenny Dyal is the host of The Scuba Diving Podcast: TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@kenny_dyal Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sweetwater_scuba Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/realkennydyal LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/kennydyal Twitter: https://twitter.com/RealKennyDyal www.sweetwaterscuba.com

***To donate directly to the MAUI FIRES FUNDRAISER, please visit this page: https://ilimanator.com/maui/ *** Founder of @deepseamagazine Jeff Scott has launched so many locally-focused brands that I had trouble keeping up. In fact, I really wanted to know HOW he found time for them all, and do it so seamlessly. That was one of many questions I had the honor of asking him throughout the interview, but the main focus was on the new DeepSea Magazine channel. DeepSea channel has featured everyone from Fabien Cousteau, to the upcoming collaboration with Cristina Zenato. While DeepSea Mag took center stage, we also discussed his DeepSea Locker clothing brand, co branded by big-named conservationists such as Paul Degelder. Jeff's work in film production, advertising, content creation and of course, as a Navy Salvage Diver, gives him first-hand experience in all things “Made Under Pressure”, which is his signature trademark and tagline. Jeff creates and connects locally-based community pages including the “Stay Local” channels and clothing lines. These support outdoor recreation and conservation in areas he has experience working in, such as San Diego, Hawaii and of course, Lake Tahoe. He currently works directly with a local touring operation in Lake Tahoe called “Tahoe Guides”, where he is physically based. -- DeepSea Magazine: https://deepseamgzn.vhx.tv/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/deepseamagazine/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@deepseamagazine/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/deepseamagazine DeepSea Locker: https://www.deepseaco.com/ https://www.instagram.com/deepsealocker/ Tahoe Guides: https://www.laketahoetoursandrentals.com/ https://www.instagram.com/tahoeguides/ Stay Local Lake Tahoe: https://www.staylocalstore.com/ Stay Local Hawaii - https://www.instagram.com/staylocal.hawaii/ Stay Local San Diego - https://www.instagram.com/staylocal.sd/ Shark Research Unit: https://www.instagram.com/sharkresearchunit/ https://shark-research.com/ — Kenny Dyal is the host of The Scuba Diving Podcast: TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@kenny_dyal Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sweetwater_scuba Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/realkennydyal LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/kennydyal Twitter: https://twitter.com/RealKennyDyal www.sweetwaterscuba.com

The Fin Pin Shop is officially the center of the universe for fun grabs at every trade show (Shark Con and DEMA to name a few) and of course they're in popular dive shops and ocean-themed gift shops from sea to shining sea! This isn't just a scuba diver wonderland of art and trinkets, Fin Pin is made and supported by Marine Biologists, conservationists and artists. They have a massive online and social media presence, donate to a MULTITUDE of wildlife and aquarium charities, plus use smart and sustainable packaging and materials! How does one dominate an industry with pins, stickers, and other fun goodies? Jaclyn walks me through the struggles, hurdles and excitement of launching what many would consider a niche business, and a crowded market. Jaclyn runs Fin Pin along with her “partner-in-crime” Yasmin (interview coming shortly after this one) who combine forces, producing a constant flow of ocean-themed fun (oh, and of course plenty of Life Aquatic with Steve Zissou themed merch to go around!) Probably my favorite part of the interview was her explaining their soft spot for the “underdog” species' (like the Blobfish!) and even use a Mola Mola fish as their main logo. If you can turn the Blobfish into fun… I think you may have something there. This interview is sure to impress and entertain any ocean, marine or aquatic enthusiast. Jaclyn Gerakios has a Bachelor's degree from Ohio University in Marine Biology and a Master's degree from Nova Southeastern University in Environmental Education. She has worked as an aquarist, marine science educator, water quality technician, classroom teacher, nonprofit manager, SCUBA instructor, and even a performing mermaid! Jaclyn is now a marine biology professor at the University of Tampa.  She also is a volunteer supervisor with her local sea turtle patrol. Website: https://finpinshop.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/finpinshop Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/finpinshop/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/finpinshop LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jaclyn-gerakios/ — Kenny Dyal is the host of The Scuba Diving Podcast: TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@kenny_dyal Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sweetwater_scuba Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/realkennydyal LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/kennydyal Twitter: https://twitter.com/RealKennyDyal www.sweetwaterscuba.com

Scuba Diving ALAS has a company supporting the entire sport, including both recreational, professional and social media enthusiasts. Like many other outdoor sports and recreational activities, the Dive with buddy team is catching scuba diving up. This interview takes place with the mastermind behind the Buddy App, Alexis Jabbour. With the 2023 launch happening as we speak, Buddy is quickly making waves throughout the industry as a disruptive platform. It's changing the landscape for scuba divers, freedivers, and snorkelers with constant new features rolling out with each monthly update. Not only can dives be validated and buddies be added to a dive that show up in the dive log, it's also an easy way to find and tip those who deserve it! The Buddy Dive Log app has the best of all the agencies like PADI, SSI, NAUI, and goes well beyond the capabilities of Manufacturer apps like Garmin, Suunto, Apple Watch and many others. It combines all the features into one, doing away with those stubborn barriers that divide the already-small industry. Connecting buddies of ALL agencies is the skeleton key of all future growth in this industry. Making sure hardworking scuba instructors, boat hands, and divemasters get paid is equally important. This app, yet again, fixes that lingering rankle within the dive industry. Further, Alexis talks about the Charter and Dive shops features that allow those QR codes to be posted for those who pool their tips, along with an upcoming “booking platform” for facilities, shops, charters and professional operations. It's clean, smooth, easy to use, and is EASILY the most comprehensive diver app YET. It got me excited enough to continue interviewing and discussing this incredible new tool, and making it part of our series here on The Scuba Diving Channel. Just a reminder, it's even set up for those that aren't certified yet! So literally anyone can download this app (it's free). Apply to become part of the Buddy Explorer team here: https://divewithbuddy.com/buddy-explorer-team Professional Divers, Operators, Facilities, Resorts, or Dive Shops: Get Buddy for Business https://buddyforbusiness.com – Download Buddy App for iOS Download Buddy App for Android https://www.tiktok.com/@divewithbuddy https://www.instagram.com/divewithbuddy/ — Kenny Dyal is the host of The Scuba Diving Podcast: TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@kenny_dyal Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sweetwater_scuba Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/realkennydyal LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/kennydyal Twitter: https://twitter.com/RealKennyDyal www.sweetwaterscuba.com

Morgan Oughton makes the jump from her New York City design job to working on a Live Aboard charter… all while launching the legendary Spacefish Army outerwear line. Her designs and products can now be found around the globe in retail dive centers and watersports venues, as well anywhere that ships online. She goes deep into life on a liveaboard charter, and how that lifestyle works (and how it sometimes doesn't). More surprising, she finds her life partner AND manages to launch Spacefish Army, all while working 16 hour days (and keeping the relationship a secret). This is the interview for anyone considering working on a live aboard yacht as a Bosun, Steward, Divemaster, Instructor, or anything remotely similar. Finally, she talks about how to know when you've hit success, the difference between happiness and satisfaction, how to balance work and personal time, and what the future looks like for Spacefish Army. – Morgan Oughton quit her job in NYC, and became a Divemaster and Instructor for the Aggressor Fleet of diving liveaboard yachts.  She fell in love with diving, and during that transformative adventure found a way to fuse her passion of diving, artwork and design into something useful for all of us: Spacefish Army. Diving needed to break free of the “bland”, and Morgan did it. Not only did she inject life & color into scuba diving wear, she brought practicality from knowing what it takes to work as a dive professional in the most demanding setting for any diving pro. From pockets to sunblock, eco-friendly pieces, Mo and her wildly friendly team have you COVERED, head to toe. Website: https://spacefisharmy.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spacefisharmy/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/spacefisharmy TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@spacefisharmy A special thank you to Katie, Becca, Robin, Will, Tina, Dee, Morgan and RJ for making the trip out to Rainbow River FL for this B-roll film shoot… I had so much fun with you all! – Kenny Dyal is the host of The Scuba Diving Podcast: TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@kenny_dyal Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sweetwater_scuba LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/kennydyal Twitter: https://twitter.com/RealKennyDyal www.sweetwaterscuba.com

Red Sullivan owns a scuba gear service company and commercial dive salvage operation called Bluewater Diving, based in Daytona Beach, FL. While working on gear or teaching technical diving courses such as Rebreather, Cavern & Cave Diving, Red listens each day on his massive radio tower for the call. Calls come in requesting help with sunken boats, a need to sink a boat to form an artificial reef, or even airplanes and cars that find themselves on the bottom of a local pond or waterway. Red spends his in between time at the work bench, servicing scuba regulators and equipment from all over the world. He services gear for dive shops and other facilities, and has been for over 30 years. In that time, he's seen some wild stuff. Red talks about teaching techniques with open water scuba certification (such as teaching on knees vs starting from a neutral position) as well as some contrasts between recreational and tech diving, from an Instructor's viewpoint.  This is also the famous "ear beer" story from those viral post on all the sweetwater channels, …or possibly better known as “Red's Ear Beer”  His personal concoction to keep ears form getting infected while diving in nasty water. The second interview is finally here and I hope you enjoy this episode! Red Sullivan is the owner of Bluewater Diving in Daytona Beach, FL https://www.bluewaterdiving.com red@bluewaterdiving.com +1 (386) 299-8671 — Kenny Dyal is the host of The Scuba Diving Podcast: TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@kenny_dyal Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sweetwater_scuba Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/realkennydyal LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/kennydyal Twitter: https://twitter.com/RealKennyDyal www.sweetwaterscuba.com

In this showcase series of the best scuba diving app on the market today, we discuss how divers can setup a profile, and (finally) get tipped! This interview takes place on the beaches of Oahu, Hawaii, with Guest Alexis Jabbour. She's the mastermind behind the Buddy App, now over 2.5 years in the making! With the Summer 2023 launch happening as we speak, Buddy is making waves throughout the industry as a disruptive platform that's quickly changing the landscape for divers, freedivers, and snorkelers. With the tipping feature built right into the Buddy Profile, we no longer have to remember our cash, find an ATM, or worse… forget and never see the divemasters or boat crew again.  Not only can dives be validated and buddies be added to dive that show up in the dive log, it's an easy way to find and tip those who deserve it, even after-the-fact! The Buddy Dive Log app has the best of all the agencies like PADI, SSI, NAUI, and goes well beyond the capabilities of Manufacturer apps like Garmin, Suunto, Apple Watch and many others. It combines all the features into one, without those barriers that divide the already-small industry even smaller. Connecting buddies of ALL agencies is the skeleton key of all future growth in this watery world. Making sure hardworking scuba instructors, boat hands, and divemasters get paid is equally important. This app, yet again, fixes a lingering rankle within the dive industry. Further, Alexis talks about the Charter and Dive shops features that allow those QR codes to be posted for those who pool their tips. It's clean, works smoothly, easy to use, and is the most comprehensive diver app YET. It got me excited enough to continue interviewing and discussing this incredible new tool, and making it part of our series here on The Scuba Diving Channel. Just a reminder, it's even set up for those that aren't certified yet! So literally anyone can download this app (it's free). BONUS: There's a program to help you make more money by getting people to sign up! Become a “Buddy Pro” and start growing your following NOW:  Professional Divers, Operators, Facilities, Resorts, or Dive Shops: Get Buddy for Business – Download Buddy App for iOS Download Buddy App for Android https://www.tiktok.com/@divewithbuddy https://www.instagram.com/divewithbuddy/ — Kenny Dyal is the host of The Scuba Diving Podcast: TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@kenny_dyal Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sweetwater_scuba Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/realkennydyal LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/kennydyal Twitter: https://twitter.com/RealKennyDyal www.sweetwaterscuba.com

In this showcase series of the best scuba diving app on the market today, we discuss adding buddies in the Buddy App. This interview takes place on the beaches of Oahu, Hawaii, with Guest Alexis Jabbour. She's the mastermind behind the Buddy App, now over 2.5 years in the making! With the Summer 2023 launch happening as we speak, Buddy is making waves throughout the industry as a disruptive platform that's quickly changing the landscape for divers, freedivers, and snorkelers. In fact, I have a feeling the world of diving is going to look very different 1-2 years from now, with the rapid adoption of the Buddy platform. The Buddy Dive Log app has the best of all the agencies like PADI, SSI, NAUI, and goes well beyond the capabilities of Manufacturer apps like Garmin, Suunto, Apple Watch and many others. This one combines all the features into one, without those barriers that divide the already small industry even smaller. Connecting buddies of ALL agencies is the skeleton key of all future growth in this watery world. Further, Alexis talks about the search features coming down the pipe that will allow meetups and other ways to connect that we've been desperately needing for too long. It's clean, works smoothly, easy to use, and is easily the most comprehensive diver app YET. It got me excited enough to continue interviewing and discussing this incredible new tool.  Not to worry, it's even set up for those that aren't certified yet, so literally anyone can download this app (and of course, it's free). BONUS: There's a program to help you make more money by getting people to sign up! Become a “Buddy Pro” and start growing your following NOW:  Professional Divers, Operators, Facilities, Resorts, or Dive Shops: Get Buddy for Business – Download Buddy App for iOS Download Buddy App for Android https://www.tiktok.com/@divewithbuddy https://www.instagram.com/divewithbuddy/ — Kenny Dyal is the host of The Scuba Diving Podcast: TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@kenny_dyal Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sweetwater_scuba Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/realkennydyal LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/kennydyal Twitter: https://twitter.com/RealKennyDyal www.sweetwaterscuba.com

I had to go all the way to Hawaii to find the best scuba diving app on the market today! I walked the cities and beaches interviewing the founder of the all-new Buddy Dive Log App. In this interview we discussed the Dive Log interface and what makes it so special. This particular interview takes place on the beaches of Oahu, just North of Electric Beach, with Guest Alexis Jabbour. She's the mastermind behind the Buddy App, now over 2.5 years in the making! With the Summer 2023 launch happening as we speak, Buddy is making waves throughout the industry as a disruptive platform. It's quickly changing the landscape for divers, freedivers, snorkelers, (and eventually) Mermaids! The Buddy Dive Log app has the best of all the agencies like PADI, SSI, NAUI, and goes well beyond the capabilities of manufacturer apps like Garmin, Suunto, Apple Watch and many others. Buddy combines all the features into one, without those segment barriers that divide our already small industry even smaller. And arguably one of the most important features of all, the Share Builder allows divers to customize, then post to social media directly from the app, toggling what (and what not) to display. Further, it allows you to connect your money accounts for tipping and bookings, verifies your certifications or professional memberships (regardless of agency), lets you share your gear, and of course has all the other fun dive log stuff (literally everything) including a photo filter for underwater adjustments. It has the ability to “friend” and chat with other divers directly on the platform, and helps you find divers in a specific area that match your skill level. It's clean, works smoothly, it's easy to use, and looks to be the most comprehensive diver app YET. It got me excited enough to continue interviewing and discussing this incredible new tool (and yup, I use it now!). Not to worry, it's even set up for those that aren't certified yet, so literally anyone can download this app. It's also important to note this app is free in its full form, so no pesky click bait ads. Get it here: www.divewithbuddy.com Professional Divers, Operators, Facilities, Resorts, or Dive Shops: Get Buddy for Business – Download Buddy App for iOS Download Buddy App for Android https://www.tiktok.com/@divewithbuddy https://www.instagram.com/divewithbuddy/ — Kenny Dyal is the host of The Scuba Diving Podcast: TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@kenny_dyal Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sweetwater_scuba Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/realkennydyal LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/kennydyal Twitter: https://twitter.com/RealKennyDyal www.sweetwaterscuba.com

Kenny and Mike break down a highly contentious subject within the dive training community: Should students be taught all the required scuba skills only AFTER gaining the ability to hover in a neutrally buoyant position? Many supporters have been quoted saying they'll “die on this hill”. But since this is NOT the widely accepted industry standard, at least for the WRSTC or most major training agencies (like PADI, NAUI, SDI, SSI and others)... should it be the norm, or is it simply overkill? Is it realistic in every single scenario with every single student, and is it even practical for group classes within a typical budget of an Open Water certification course? There is no doubt an issue with poor neutral buoyancy training, as most working divemasters and instructors will vehemently profess, but is this the solution or is there another angle? This topic can be seen stirring pretty strong opinions in any given scuba forum or comment thread, so we decided to discuss it point blank. – Regular Guest Michael Kest is a jury trial attorney for civil litigation, and an experienced scuba instructor. He's worked many dive shops, charter boats, and has taught independently in locations ranging from Florida to Hawaii. Mike has also been a Divemaster for Epcot's Dive Quest program at Disney for over 15 years, leading tens of thousands of Guests in the Seas aquarium on a weekly basis. He played football for FSU, he's a father of three, a husband, a coach, and regularly dives in South Florida for fun on his spare time.  - Find Kenny Dyal on the Buddy App for iOS Find Kenny Dyal on the Buddy App for Android - Kenny Dyal is the host of The Scuba Diving Podcast: TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@kenny_dyal Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sweetwater_scuba Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/realkennydyal LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/kennydyal Twitter: https://twitter.com/RealKennyDyal www.sweetwaterscuba.com

John Garza leads shark excursions, captains a luxury catamaran, teaches and takes stunning underwater photography of sharks, whales, you name it… all in the name of learning mutual respect, conservation, and how to have fun doing it. He does not, however, wear a cape. John is a busy, hard-working professional based in South Florida and the Caribbean. He runs an alternative-style charter for those seeking a different kind of experience, where luxury meets authenticity and learning. Formerly sailing the Purely Blue Charters, John and his partner-in-crime Hannah Patten (along with the rest of the crew) sail the all-new My Hülya catamaran, launching soon (at the time of this publishing). In fact, Hannah even has her own sustainable swimsuit line that often overlaps the very same lifestyle, where they can regularly be seen working together on related projects. Follow John Garza's incredible underwater photography: https://www.instagram.com/johngarzaphoto/ Follow their My Hülya Catamaran page as it gets ready for launch!: https://www.instagram.com/my.hulya/ — Kenny Dyal is the host of The Scuba Diving Podcast: TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@kenny_dyal Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sweetwater_scuba Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/realkennydyal LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/kennydyal Twitter: https://twitter.com/RealKennyDyal www.sweetwaterscuba.com

Red Sullivan owns a scuba gear servicing company, which also conducts commercial dive salvage operations It's called Bluewater Diving and is based in Daytona Beach, FL. While working on gear, Red listens on his massive radio tower for calls from sunken boats, airplanes and cars that found themselves on the bottom of a local pond or waterway. Red spends the bulk of his time at the work bench, servicing scuba regulators and equipment from all over the world. He services gear for dive shops and other facilities, and has been for over 30 years. In that time, he's seen some wild stuff. Not only does he talk about the freaky things he's found in divers' regulators, but also how to take care of gear, what matters the most when buying, and whether or not you should really spend money on regulators. This interview also contains the infamous "puke" story from those with acid reflux that "vurp" into their regulators, the lizard egg story, spiders in regulators, and of course his pet peeves.  It's finally here and I hope you enjoy this interview! Red is the owner of Bluewater Diving in Daytona Beach, FL https://www.bluewaterdiving.com red@bluewaterdiving.com +1 (386) 299-8671 — Kenny Dyal is the host of The Scuba Diving Podcast: TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@kenny_dyal Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sweetwater_scuba Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/realkennydyal LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/kennydyal Twitter: https://twitter.com/RealKennyDyal www.sweetwaterscuba.com

Alexis Jabbour is the mastermind behind the Buddy App, now 2.5 years in the making! With the June 2023 launch happening as we speak, Buddy is perhaps the most important step forward the dive industry will see in a generation. Creating a platform that FINALLY gets divers from all walks of life into a single place is injecting a new level of fun, but importantly… CONNECTION! It helps industry leaders make more money, makes it easier to market themselves, and helps everyday divers connect with other divers easier than anything that's ever been made. This helps any scuba instructor, dive shop, charter or facility using ANY agency ( PADI, NAUI, SSI, SDI, BSAC, CMAS, etc). It allows Divemasters and Instructors to “Verify” dives, making it easier than ever to keep people up to date, legit, and more actively engaged with the community. Further, it allows you to connect your money accounts for tipping and bookings, verifies your certifications or professional memberships, lets you share your gear, and of course has all the other fun dive log stuff (literally everything) including a photo filter for underwater adjustments. It has the ability to “friend” and chat with other divers directly on the platform, and helps you find divers in a specific area that match your skill level. It's clean, works smoothly, easy to use, and looks to be the most comprehensive diver app YET. It got me excited enough to continue interviewing and discussing this incredible new tool.  Not to worry, it's setup for Freedivers, Snorkelers, for those that aren't certified yet, and on the horizon: The Mermaid community! BONUS: There's a program to help you make more money by getting people to sign up! Become a “Buddy Pro” and start growing your following NOW:  Professional Divers, Operators, Facilities, Resorts, or Dive Shops: Get Buddy for Business – Download Buddy App for iOS Download Buddy App for Android https://www.tiktok.com/@divewithbuddy https://www.instagram.com/divewithbuddy/ — Kenny Dyal is the host of The Scuba Diving Podcast: TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@kenny_dyal Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sweetwater_scuba Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/realkennydyal LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/kennydyal Twitter: https://twitter.com/RealKennyDyal www.sweetwaterscuba.com

Undervaluing the enormous amount of time, experience, equipment, prep, and patience it takes to teach scuba courses is killing the dive industry, and the customers and recreational divers out there get hit the hardest. Mike and Kenny get to the very core of the dive industry's lack of growth, when compared with similar industries. Further, this same root cause is why so few people keep diving after they get scuba certified.  This cycle creates burnout on the Instructors and Divemasters, and sets up students to fail at their ultimate original goal: Confidence to be a scuba diver (aka the lifestyle). While many may still "catch the bug" in a basic discounted course, most either have to find additional training/guidance or simply never go diving again. This is mainly due to rushed courses, and lack of personal attention. The “2 year burnout cycle" of the scuba instructor is caused by not charging what they're worth, getting overworked with too many students, dive shops not not having the time to form lasting bonds, and ultimately not nurturing divers into this incredible world.  Increased value increases value… for EVERYONE.  — Michael Kest is a jury trial attorney with his own practice. He's an active dive instructor with experience that ranges from working dive boats in South Florida and Hawaii, water safety at Sea World and Disney's Dive Quest, working for dive shops and teaching classes all over the world. He coaches kids sports on his spare time, and is a father of three. — Kenny Dyal is the host of The Scuba Diving Podcast: TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@kenny_dyal Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sweetwater_scuba LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/kennydyal Twitter: https://twitter.com/RealKennyDyal www.sweetwaterscuba.com

Morgan Oughton quit her job in NYC, and became a Divemaster and Instructor for the Aggressor Fleet, one of the busiest & most famous diving liveaboard charters in the world. "Mo" fell in love with diving, and during journey found a way to fuse her passion of diving, outer space, artwork and design into something useful for all of us: Spacefish Army. Diving needed to break free of the same-old "bland and boring", and Morgan literally made that happen. Not only did she inject life into scuba diving wear, she brought practicality to it. She knows what it takes to work as a dive professional in the most demanding setting (liveaboard dive charters!) From sneaky pockets to sunblocky, eco-friendly pieces, Mo and her wildly friendly team have you COVERED, head to toe. Website: https://spacefisharmy.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spacefisharmy/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/spacefisharmy TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@spacefisharmy — Kenny Dyal is the host of The Scuba Diving Podcast: TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@kenny_dyal Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sweetwater_scuba LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/kennydyal Twitter: https://twitter.com/RealKennyDyal www.sweetwaterscuba.com