Free Descent

Pro Dive: Josiah Mackin, PADI Course Director at Utila Dive Center, Honduras

Wed, 16 Apr 2025 09:06:24 -0700

Spring has sprung with this inspiring interview to start off your Wednesday. Walter and Colton sit down with Josiah Mackin "Juicy", manager and course director at Utila Dive Center in Utila, Honduras. Juicy has been a diver since 2001 and never really looked back after getting his PADI Open Water certification. In the past 24 years, he has traveled the world and climbed the professional ranks of dive instruction along the way. He is now firmly planted in Utila, Honduras and loves the community that he has been instrumental in building on the island. Listen in to be inspired by how a simple Open Water scuba diving certification can change the trajectory of your life!

Find your passion at Scuba Diving in Utila | Get Scuba Certified in the Caribbean

~Reminder~
Free Descent is intended as entertainment only and should not replace formal dive instruction. Always follow the direction of your divemasters and instructors and remember to dive within the limits of your training and experience. Stay safe and have fun out there!

Pro Dive: Annick Den Harder, Master Instructor based in Switzerland

Sat, 29 Mar 2025 07:36:05 -0700

Happy Saturday Free Descent Community! Join us this week as we chat with a very unique dive pro, Annick Den Harder. Annick started her dive career in the warm waters of the Caribbean but has graduated from "cocktail diving" to the cold waters of Europe and even Antarctica! In this episode, Annick tells Walter all about her journey to becoming a master instructor, what it's like to train divers in the cold lakes of Switzerland, and all about her cold water discoveries around the world. Want to train with Annick? Find her at TSK, the largest dive operation in Switzerland. TSK - Tauchschule, Tauchshop & Tauchreisen in Zürich und Bern

After listening to the episode, reach out to Walter, Myles, and Colton on the Instagram @freedescentpodcast and tell us if you're a:

1. Cocktail diver who believes in the 80-80-80 rule

2. Cold water adventurer

Pro Dive: Bruce Weitzenhoffer, PADI Scuba Diving Course Director in Monterey, CA

Mon, 03 Mar 2025 19:21:25 -0800

Walter and Colton sat down with Bruce Weitzenhoffer, PADI Course Director in Monterey, CA, for an interesting discussion centered around 3 things:

1. How do we retain seasoned pros in the dive industry?

2. How does experience in the dive industry assist in obtaining jobs in other industries?

3. How does work in other industries translate to diving?

Listen now to hear one of the best conversations circulating the industry right now!

Dive 49: Last Breath Movie Exclusive Interview with Alex Parkinson (director) and David Brooks (producer)

Tue, 25 Feb 2025 05:00:00 -0800

Walter had the incredible opportunity to sit down with Alex Parkinson and David Brooks after seeing Last Breath before it comes out in theatres February 28th, 2025. Parkinson was not only the director and co-writer for this new film, but also the director for the preceding documentary. Brooks produced the film, as well as co-wrote alongside Parkinson and Mitchell LaFortune.

In this episode, you'll get the inside scoop on how Parkinson and Brooks turned a real-life story into a documentary, and then into a creative film starring Woody Harrelson. They tell Walter how safety was always their number one concern throughout filming, with authenticity being a close second. They built a topnotch dive team to assist Simu Liu and Finn Cole while they were filming, which they describe in detail to in this exclusive episode.

See the movie in theatres February 28th and find more details about in the link below:

Last Breath | Official Website | 28 February 2025

Dive 48: Tides of Tranquility: Yoga + Scuba Diving Retreat in Utila, Honduras

Mon, 17 Feb 2025 15:12:05 -0800

Myles caught up with FDP regular guest, Taylor from @the.wanderingblonde and new guest, Liz from @islandvibes.yoga and talked everything travel, yoga, and ocean activities. Taylor gives us an update on her travels and more background into her ocean story, and Liz tells all about her yoga and travel journey. Together, they have created "Tides of Tranquility" a tropical retreat built around the purpose of healing through movement and breathwork. Coming up May 31st 2025 in Utila, Honduras, Taylor and Liz give our listeners the inside scoop on what to expect, along with an exclusive discount code only found in this episode! Listen now, then follow the link below to book your spot-->

The Mindful Mvmnt Yoga, Ocean, Wellness, Retreats

Pro Dive: Jordan Wilson, Master Scuba Diver Trainer based in the Caribbean

Mon, 03 Feb 2025 06:00:00 -0800

In 2025 the Free Descent team is excited to launch a new series: Pro Dive. In these episodes, one of our team members will sit down with a full-time professional diver and just talk shop. You'll hear all the inside scoop on what it's like to be a dive pro, with our guests ranging from brand new instructors to seasoned course directors.

On our first Pro Dive, Walter chats with Jordan Wilson, a brand-new Master Scuba Diver Trainer who landed his first job in Grand Cayman this month. Walter and Jordan crossed paths in Utila, Honduras and became fast friends. They talk everything from sailing, Divemaster training, Instructor Development, and hammocks. Jordan's originally from the UK but has found his passion in Caribbean diving. Tune in to hear his story!

Dive 46: New Year, New Team! Meet Walter, Colton, and Myles, PADI Scuba Instructors

Thu, 09 Jan 2025 16:06:35 -0800

Happy New Year Free Descent community! We are back and ready to go on our best dives yet in 2025.

If you caught up with us at the DEMA show, you may have met our new co-hosts, Walter Sweeney and Colton Gilmore. This year, we are excited to announce that they will be staples on our Free Descent team. In this episode, you'll get insight into who they are, what they do in the dive industry, and what their interests are in the underwater world. If you're new hear, you'll also meet Myles Schwartz, longtime host of Free Descent and underwater adventurer!

We hope that you enjoy this episode, and all that we have to share with the dive community in 2025. Please reach out on Instagram @freedescentpodcast if you have any comments, questions, or ideas for our upcoming shows!

Dive 45: Cave Diving & Expedition Buteng with Rannvá Jørmundsson, cofounder of Nixie Expeditions

Sat, 21 Dec 2024 06:14:44 -0800

Happy Holidays divers! Enjoy this incredible tale of adventure while you prepare for the holidays. Whether you're traveling to family or your favorite dive site, this episode is sure to inspire your 2025 bucket list!

Rannvá Jørmundsson, cofounder of Nixie Expeditions and head of sales at Fourth Element, joins us again to give us an exclusive recap of Expedition Buteng. Rannvá, alongside an expert team of cave divers, scientists, dry cavers, photographers, local experts, and many more, explored the depths of the Laulawi Cave system on the island of Muna, Indonesia in the fall of 2024. This was not only in the spirit of exploration, but for a larger purpose in helping the locals of Muna and expanding our scientific knowledge surrounding aquifers. Listen in to hear all about this incredible project, as well as learn more about the nuances of cave diving.

To follow the expansion of Nixie Expeditions, find them on Instagram @nixie_expeditions

Dive 44: Ocean Restoration in Southern California with Nancy Caruso, founder of Get Inspired Inc.

Thu, 05 Dec 2024 08:35:49 -0800

What would Southern California scuba diving be like without our kelp forests? Nancy Caruso saw it for herself, and made sure that future generations wouldn't have to know. Founder of Get Inspired Inc, Nancy spearheaded the restoration of kelp across the coast of Southern California through her tenacity and putting in the work to obtain restoration permits in crucial areas. She teaches us that to save our oceans it not only takes volunteering and living sustainably but being active in your local government! Listen in to hear about Nancy's story, what she's working on next, and how to get involved! Find her online at Get Inspired - Get Inspired, on instagram @getinspiredinc , and on her TedX Talk linked below.

https://youtu.be/SidY46RA6rY?si=6w9KPzfO4oI3d1bf

Dive 43: Learn Scuba Chicago, Nonprofit Dive Shop, w/ Sam Guess

Thu, 05 Dec 2024 08:34:15 -0800

Have you ever heard of a nonprofit scuba diving shop? Myles and Walter hadn't until connecting with Learn Scuba Chicago. Sam Guess, instructor and board member at Learn Scuba Chicago, comes on this episode to tell our community all about what it's like being a volunteer divemaster and scuba instructor in the Midwest. She also dives deep into her own scuba story and tells us about the mental health benefits that scuba provides for her and her students. To learn more about how to get involved in the programs at Learn Scuba Chicago, visit their website, Learn Scuba Chicago or their Instagram, @learnscubachicago.

Dive 42: Wandering the World through Scuba Diving and Yoga w/ Taylor @the.wanderingblonde

Thu, 07 Nov 2024 08:58:35 -0800

Have you ever tried pigeon pose in yoga? Next goal: try it underwater! In this episode, we hear from Taylor, @the.wanderingblonde, on how she brings her two passions together through Scuba+Yoga retreats. She tells all about her mental health journey and the role the scuba diving and yoga played for her in her teens and 20s. The health benefits of both of these activities are immense, and more interconnected than some might think. Want to learn more about Taylor, and join one of her retreats? Check out her new page and website: @the.mindfulmvmnt // The Mindful Mvmnt

Dive 41: Scuba Diving in Turkey w/ Kelsey McDonald @souldivers_

Thu, 24 Oct 2024 08:42:56 -0700

Have you ever wondered about scuba diving in the Aegean Sea? Most people turn their nose up to the European dive scene, but we've brought Kelsey McDonald from @souldivers_ to prove them all wrong! Kelsey tells our community all about her time diving in Gallipoli, Turkey (Türkiye) with @goturkiye and @go_canakkale. Listen in to hear all about her advice for diving the Aegean Sea and exploring Turkey on land. Wrecks, nudibranchs, massive meals, and so much more!

Dive 40: Coffee, Bananas, and Open Water Scuba Diving Courses

Thu, 10 Oct 2024 11:43:10 -0700

Walt is back! Grab a coffee, tea, and a banana (if you're not on a boat) and join Myles and Walt for a deep dive into diving habits, superstitions, and teaching PADI Open Water courses around the world. Walt tells all about the differences and similarities between his time in Hawaii, Florida, Thailand, and Honduras, while Myles compares this to her work in Southern California. Listen in to the conversation, and share your thoughts on Instagram at @FreeDescentPodcast and @Sweendogscuba

Dive 39 - Finding Time to Dive: Teaching, Travel, and 9-5 Jobs

Fri, 20 Sep 2024 13:26:17 -0700

Myles and Jake do a dive into a topic that's been top of mind for the podcast for a while, how to keep diving while balancing a 9-5 job, travel, and teaching! Listen in to the conversation, and share your thoughts on Instagram at @FreeDescentPodcast

~Reminder~
Free Descent is intended as entertainment only, and should not replace formal dive instruction. Always follow the direction of your divemasters and instructors, and remember to dive within the limits of your training and experience. Stay safe, and have fun out there!

Dive 38- Rannvá Jørmundsson from Fourth Element and Nixie Expeditions

Thu, 05 Sep 2024 08:13:02 -0700

Myles is back from Europe and not only brought home memories, but new friends! In this interview we catch up with Rannvá Jørmundsson, head of sales at Fourth Element and co-founder of Nixie Expeditions. Rannvá is an experienced tech diver and avid adventurer, and she's only seeking to move forward from here. Listen in as we discuss how she got to where she is now, where she's going from here, and her purpose in diving.

~Reminder~

Free Descent is intended as entertainment, and should not replace formal dive instruction. Always listen to your instructors and divemasters, and dive within the limits of your training and experience. Stay safe, and have fun out there!

Dive 37 - Blue Therapy Project with Tom Sloan

Thu, 22 Aug 2024 07:51:19 -0700

Welcome back from summer break Free Descent Community! We're kicking things off "therapeutically" with Tom Sloan, the mastermind behind the newly launched Blue Therapy Project. We chat all things dive marketing, chasing an ocean dream, introducing the next generation to the water, and how diving changes lives. This brand aims to get people "in, under, and around the water"...JUST BREATHE!

~Reminder~

Dive 36: Deeper Blue w/ Stephan Whelan

Thu, 25 Jul 2024 08:59:34 -0700

Myles and Jake go "deeper" than ever before in this tell-all interview with Stephan Whelan, founder and CEO of Deeper Blue, the world's largest community for freediving and scuba diving media. Stephan gives us all the details of how he got into diving, how he started Deeper Blue, when he knew it was getting big, and what projects they're currently working on. You don't want to miss this episode!

~Reminder~
Free Descent is intended as entertainment, and not to replace formal dive instruction. Remember to listen to the advice of your instructors and divemasters, and dive within the limits of your training and experience!

Dive 35: PADI Women's Dive Day with April Weickert and Olivia (Fully Submerged Scuba)

Thu, 11 Jul 2024 07:44:32 -0700

We are gearing up for another incredible PADI Women's Dive Day here at Free Descent! In the spirit of uplifting female voices, we have kicked Jake out for the week and invited two very special female divers: April (@aprilweickert) and Olivia (@fullysubmergedscuba). Join us as we get real about how to celebrate women in the dive community, as well as divers that identify as LGBTQ+ and people of color. You don't want to miss this exclusive #girltalk with some of the best in the business!

Dive 34: Stream2Sea Founder Autumn Blum Drops A New Product On Our Show!

Thu, 27 Jun 2024 08:00:00 -0700

Jake and Myles welcome back good friend and multi-time guest, Autumn Blum. We absolutely love S2S products, and in this show, we dive deeper into the company's mission and values. Don't miss the surprise product drop (!!!) and details on Women's Dive Day deals.

Dive 33 - DiverSeaFy and Scuba Show Recap

Thu, 13 Jun 2024 09:46:58 -0700

Dive 33 and we've never felt younger! In this episode, Jake and Myles got the chance to interview Max Bracey, founder of DiverSeaFy. Max tells all about his dive story and how he started his non-profit. Through his time as a diver and later dive professional, Max saw a lack of people of color in the dive community and felt called to change that. Listen in to hear what they're doing in Southern California, and how you can get involved!

Later, Jake gives us his recap of Scuba Show. New connections, old friends, there's nothing we love more than a dive conference!

Dive 32 - Finding a Dive Shop, Prepping for a Scuba Show, and Learning About Risk

Fri, 31 May 2024 07:00:00 -0700

Jake and Myles sit down together and share tips on how to find a dive shop while traveling, what we're looking forward to most at Scuba Show, and DAN's new e-learning on risk and liability!

Keep an eye on Jake's Instagram for special Scuba Show surprises, including a way to win a DiveVolk phone case!

Dive 31 - Aquarium Diver, Educator, and Scuba Queen USA Rachel Cushman

Fri, 17 May 2024 09:05:19 -0700

Jake and Myles sat down with Rachel Cushman, an amazing diver and educator with a wealth of experience, to chat about diving in aquariums, teaching, silly stories from learning to dive, and the challenges facing women in diving. Definitely not an episode to miss!

~Reminder~

Dive 30 - Danielle Tentschert and Ocean Connectors

Thu, 02 May 2024 19:11:08 -0700

Dive 30 brings us a special conversation with Danielle Tentschert, Education Manager at Ocean Connectors. We talk about how to get kids into ocean conservation, and how impactful the ocean can be on a child, as well as what got us into loving the water!

Ocean Connectors is a San Diego-based nonprofit whose mission is to educate, inspire, and connect youth in underserved Pacific coastal communities through the study of migratory marine life. They work to cultivate a future generation of passionate, globally-aware, and empowered coastal residents who take active steps to enjoy and protect ocean health.

www.oceanconnectors.org

~Reminder~

Free Descent is intended as entertainment, and not to replace formal dive instruction. Always follow the instructions of your divemasters and instructors, and dive within the limits of your training and experience. Stay safe, and have fun out there!

Dive 29 - Walt and Kelsey are Back!

Thu, 18 Apr 2024 09:18:00 -0700

We are back with our good friends Walt (@sweendogscuba) and Kelsey (@souldivers_). Walt and Kelsey answer your questions submitted via Instagram, as well as a few more. This is one of the best yet in our biased opinion; we cover burn-out, diversity, finding/keeping work, and so much more!

~Reminder~
Free Descent is intended as entertainment only, and not to replace any formal dive instruction. Always follow the instruction of your instructors and divemasters, and dive within the limits of your training and experience. Stay safe, and have fun out there!

Dive 28 - The Scuba Queens Take Over!

Thu, 04 Apr 2024 04:14:35 -0700

April Fools! Our friends Alysha Acosta and Danielle DiLorenzo take over the show to interview us for a change. Listen in to hear how we answer questions about our lives as scuba instructors, our friendship, and everything in between. Alysha, Miss Scuba Queen California 2023, and Dani, Miss Scuba Queen USA 2023, also spill all the details on upcoming Miss Scuba International news.

Dive 27 - The Scuba Industry with Walt and Kelsey, Part 1

Thu, 21 Mar 2024 08:15:53 -0700

Updates, updates, updates! Myles finally moved to Spain, dove in the Mediterranean Sea, and is never leaving! Jake hit 400 dives in San Diego and booked a last minute trip to Bonaire!

After over a year of FDP, we finally got to sit down with our good friends Walt (@sweendogscuba) and Kelsey (@souldivers_). Walt and Kelsey have to wildly different stories about becoming dive professionals, but they both came to the same conclusion: it's the best job in the world! Hear what the have to say about getting started, making your way, and saying focused in the industry. This is Part 1 of a two-part interview with Walt and Kelsey, and we want you to get your questions answered! Submit them on the Free Descent Instagram and we'll ask Walt and Kelsey in Part 2!

Dive 26 - He's Hot, She's Cold

Thu, 07 Mar 2024 06:30:00 -0800

Dive 26: Myles and Jake cap off one year of Free Descent by recapping their most recent adventures along with special guest Lydia! Myles and Lydia tell tales of ice diving and the North American Ice Diving Festival, and Jake talks about his adventures in the Windward Islands of the Caribbean. We wrap up with a couple of questions for the listeners, so let us know your thoughts on Instagram at @FreeDescentPodcast!
~
Reminder: Free Descent is intended as entertainment only, and should not replace formal dive instruction. Always listen to your divemasters and instructors, and dive within the limits of your training and experience. Stay safe, and have fun out there!

Dive 25: North American Ice Diving Festival 2024

Thu, 22 Feb 2024 06:48:12 -0800

Jake has been MIA for a month and Myles is gearing up to FINALLY get under the ice with Midwest School of Diving. Listen into our special interview with Mark Dugger from Midwest School of Diving, host of the North American Ice Diving Festival. Mark gives us insight into ice diving logistics, how the festival works, who will be there, how to get involved, and how they came to be the largest ice diving festival in the world.

In 2024 the festival will take place at Twin Lakes City Park, Nowthen MN. To sign up and get more information, please with out to info@mwschoolofdiving.com or call +1(651) 653-1174.

~Reminder~
Free Descent is intended as entertainment, and should not be used to replace formal dive instruction. Always follow the instructions of your instructors and divemasters, and dive within the limits of your training and experience! Stay safe, and have fun out there.

Dive 24- Growing Up with Buddy

Thu, 08 Feb 2024 08:27:26 -0800

Myles and Jake have dry gills, they NEED to get in the water! Hear all about their upcoming dive plans for February before jumping into an exclusive interview with Alexis Jabbour and Kelsey Elliot from the Buddy app. The Free Descent and Buddy teams have grown up alongside each other this past year, so this interview was a reunion for all of us. Listen in to get the scoop on the app's newest features, and what's coming in 2024. To download Buddy, start logging your dives, and add Jake and Myles, follow the link below!

Buddy App: Connect with Buddies & Discover New Adventures (divewithbuddy.com)

Dive 23 - Force Blue with Gonzo

Thu, 25 Jan 2024 07:32:35 -0800

Saving our oceans has always been cool, but the Force Blue team makes it that much cooler! Jake and Myles interview Steve "Gonzo" Gonzalez on his work to unite Special Operations veterans with marine science and conservation projects. Click the link below to get involved!

As promised, the winner of our first ever MERCH contest will be announced at some point in the episode. Listen to hear if you won!

Link to the screening of 100 Yards of Hope: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/100-yards-of-hope-documentary-film-screening-tickets-749270316687?fbclid=IwAR2xl2m1Yyzd17XI_sDnRYCbRVreRe0PUaBcATsmX1YrpFRXd_oJs0Hl34E

Find Force Blue online at: forceblueteam.org or on Instagram at @forceblueteam

Dive 22 - New Year, Same Us!

Thu, 11 Jan 2024 06:50:15 -0800

It's a new year, and we are planning the best 12 months yet! We ring in 2024 with goalsetting for not only ourselves, but the pod of course! Our community plays a huge part in our podcast goals, so don't forget to participate in our merchandise competition! To win, you have to:

- Follow us on Instagram

- Like and share the post about this show

- Comment your goals and tag a friend on the post

- Subscribe to the pod on Apple or Spotify

- Listen to Dive 23 to find out if you've won!

~Reminder~ Free Descent is intended as entertainment, and not to replace formal dive instruction. Always dive within the limits of your training and experience, and listen to the instructions of your divemasters and instructors. Stay safe, and have fun out there!

Dive 21 - Winter is Here! Cold Water Diving with April Weickert and Josh Hustins

Thu, 28 Dec 2023 07:06:37 -0800

Dive 21 is CHOCK FULL of the hottest (and coldest) dive discussions! Women in diving, women in management, social media, Canadian diving, military diving, dos and don'ts of ice diving, GEAR, travel, instructing, community building, AND MORE! Join us as we give Myles a proper send-off into her next adventure (0:00 - 12:45) and we chat with April Weickert, manager at Torpedo Rays Scuba in Halifax, Nova Scotia and star of Jump In; and Josh Hustins, Canadian Navy diver and PADI Instructor at Torpedo Rays Scuba (12:45 - 1:04:10). We wrap up with a couple of exciting announcements and looking ahead to 2024.

Dive 20 - Our Holiday Gift Guide, the Scuba Queens Return, and the 2023 Dive Flag Awards!

Thu, 14 Dec 2023 07:00:28 -0800

We made it to Dive 20! To celebrate, we share our gift guide for divers and those who love us (00:36-11:30), then chat with our favorite recurring guests, Dani DiLorenzo and Alysha Acosta about their amazing experience in Malaysia competing to become Miss Scuba International (11:30-46:00), and then cap it all off with the First Annual Dive Flag Awards!

Jake's photo prints are available at: www.jakesdiveshack.darkroom.com

Scuba Queen USA 2024 applications are coming up soon, stay up to date by following them on Instagram at @scubaqueenusa!

Find Free Descent on Instagram @FreeDescentPodcast

~Reminder~

Free Descent is intended only as entertainment, and not to replace any formal dive instruction. Always follow the direction of your divemasters and instructors, and dive within the limits of your training and experience. Stay safe, and have fun out there!

Dive 19 - DEMA Recap

Thu, 30 Nov 2023 08:02:24 -0800

Jake and Myles just got back from DEMA and are JAZZED (bad New Orleans joke) to tell you about it! Also hear about Myles' most recent GIRL DIVES (she jumped back in the water as soon as she got home). Finally, hear the tell-all about the DEMA show floor, the after parties, and DEMA 2025 HERE! Bonus: listen to short interviews from some of the amazing people and organizations we had the pleasure of meeting!

Dive 18 - Captain Pete Bethune and Crew of the Modoc

Thu, 16 Nov 2023 07:43:37 -0800

This week's episode is exclusively about the Modoc, the ship of the Earthrace conservation that ventured among the Chinese Overseas Fleet of squid fishing vessels to film documentary footage highlighting the global overfishing problem.

We interview Jack Bundle and Josh Martin, two crewmembers of the Modoc, about how they got involved with Earthrace, their experiences working on the boat, and what life was like day-to-day. (0:30-36:30). We then talk to Captain Pete Bethune, the captain of the Modoc, about the genesis of the project, the operation of getting the film crew aboard one of the fishing vessels, and how the documentary footage was shot. (36:35-59:38)

Note - this episode does include descriptions which may be troubling to some listeners. Please listen with a note of understanding that fishing, especially commercial fishing, can be a dangerous business.

~Reminder~

Free Descent is intended as entertainment, and not to replace formal dive instruction. Always follow the instructions of your dive instructors and divemasters. Stay safe, and have fun out there!

Dive 17 - Scuba Queen CA Alysha Acosta and Jake is in Hawaii

Thu, 02 Nov 2023 09:51:07 -0700

Jake is in Hawaii for a wedding and diving all over Oahu! Jake has also been made a Dive with Buddy ambassador. We also talk about Myles' most recent dives, and what we're looking forward to at DEMA! (0:35-13:40)

Then, Scuba Queen CA Alysha Acosta joins us to talk about her journey, the importance of bringing equity to diving, and what she's looking forward to as Miss Scuba International kicks off in a couple weeks!

~Reminder~
Free Descent is intended only as entertainment, and should not replace formal dive instruction. Remember to always follow the instructions of your instructors and divemasters, and dive within the limits of your training and experience. Stay safe, and have fun out there!

Surface Interval - We Celebrate Sharktober with Shark Stewards Founder David McGuire and Shark Attack Survivor Maria Korcsmaros

Thu, 26 Oct 2023 06:00:00 -0700

Just in time for Sharktober, we chat with David McGuire about the race to save sharks and what sharks mean to our oceans and our above-water world (0:36-24:40). We then sit down with shark attack survivor Maria Korcsmaros, who tells us her story of attack, survival, and advocacy (24:45-53:10).

RESOURCES:

Shark Stewards: www.sharkstewards.org

Run4Sharks: www.run4sharks.org

Maria's Story: https://voyagela.com/interview/meet-maria-korcsmaros-of-newport-beach-long-beach/

~Reminder~

Free Descent is intended as entertainment, and not to replace formal dive instruction. Always dive within the limits of your training and experience, and follow the direction of your divemasters and instructors. Stay safe, and have fun out there!

Dive 16 - Liveaboard Diving in Indonesia

Thu, 19 Oct 2023 07:39:01 -0700

Jake is back! He shares his thoughts on his amazing liveaboard diving trip to Indonesia's Forgotten Islands, including how he got through some of his jetlag, changing money, the benefits of a liveaboard trip, and how adjusting to time zones is going. If you haven't listened already, this is a great complementary episode to Dives 14 and 15, so check those out as well!

~Reminder~

Free Descent is for entertainment, and not intended to replace formal dive instruction. Always listen to your divemasters and instructors, and remember to dive within the limits of your training and experience. Have fun out there and be safe!

Dive 15- Deep In Our Feelings

Thu, 05 Oct 2023 14:23:37 -0700

Jake and Myles have a more casual discussion about how diving makes them feel during fun dives, classes, and solo dives. End of the story, diving probably isn't cheaper than therapy, but it's still our preferred way to process life!

**Reminder** Free Descent is intended as entertainment, and not as a replacement for formal dive instruction. Always follow the instructions of your divemasters and instructors, and remember to dive within the limits of your training and experience. Be safe, and have fun out there!

Dive 14 - Fly Time 2

Thu, 21 Sep 2023 07:54:08 -0700

We've crossed the six-month mark of Free Descent, and to celebrate, Myles and Jake talk about the trips they've been on and are planning for. Myles just got back from Hawaii, and Jake is headed for a liveaboard trip in Indonesia. We talk packing, prepping, gear to bring or leave at home, and Myles' tragic tale of woe at the Tijuana Airport. If you've got travel tips, tricks, or stories, share them at @freedescentpodcast on Instagram!

Dive 13 - We’ve got a Theory! with Seth Tufvesson

Thu, 07 Sep 2023 06:22:00 -0700

Myles and Jake talk all things dive theory and dive medical knowledge with Seth Tufvesson, a commercial diver, hyperbaric chamber operator, and PADI Course Director. He tells us his favorite dive theory facts, how hyperbaric chambers are used for more than just diving, and why he keeps learning new things!

**Reminder** Free Descent is intended only as entertainment, not as a replacement for formal dive training. Always listen to the instructions of your divemasters and instructors, and dive within the limits of your training and experience. Be safe, and have fun out there!

--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/freedescent/support

Dive 12 - Divemastery

Thu, 24 Aug 2023 05:59:00 -0700

Jake and Myles talk everything divemastering - helping out with classes, working on boats/ in dive shops, what we love about DMs, what we wish they'd do better, and why we need them!

*Reminder* Free Descent is intended as entertainment only and not to replace formal dive instruction. Always follow the directions of your divemasters and instructors, and dive within the limits of your training and experience. Stay safe, and have fun out there!

Dive 11 - Healthy Diving

Thu, 10 Aug 2023 04:26:00 -0700

Jake and Myles chat about healthy habits, healthy routines, and how diving fosters both mental and physical health. We also talk about how we prepare for dives physically and mentally, to make sure we stay healthy!

Reminder: Free Descent is intended to be entertainment, and is not intended to replace formal dive instruction. Remember to listen to and obey your divemasters and instructors, and always dive within the limits of your training and experience. Most importantly, have fun out there!

Surface Interval: Stream2Sea with Autumn and Mike

Thu, 03 Aug 2023 06:00:00 -0700

Join us in welcoming Stream2Sea to the Free Descent community! We interview Autumn Blum and Mike Malterre on their work to improve sustainable cosmetics and bring us truly reef-safe products.

**Reminder**

Free Descent is not intended to replace formal dive instruction, so always follow the directions of your divemasters and instructors. Remember to dive within the limits of your training and experience, and have fun out there!

Dive 10 - Shark Week with Fins Attached and Dive Myths

Thu, 27 Jul 2023 05:55:00 -0700

Welcome to SHARK WEEK with Free Descent! We start by chatting about the dive myths we hear most often, and some submitted by our listeners. Next up to celebrate this very important week, we've got an interview with Fins Attached. Listen with us as we learn about this research organization that is dedicated to preserving and fighting for the existence (and survival) of sharks, turtles, and other endangered or overfished species. Without sharks, the whole ocean suffers, and it's up to us to make a difference and be conscious of our choices. We can also decide not to support shops or organizations which hunt sharks for sport, without regard for conservation or thought of waste. More resources on Fins Attached: Research: https://finsattached.org/our-approach/research/ Videos: https://finsattached.org/our-videos/ Squalene vs. Squaline: https://sharkstewards.org/about-sharkstewards/what-we-do/shark-squalene/

**REMINDER** Free Descent is not intended to replace formal dive instruction; always dive within the limits of your training and experience. Please remember to follow the directions of your divemasters and instructors, and have fun out there!

Dive 9 - Women’s Dive Day

Sat, 15 Jul 2023 14:35:00 -0700

The women are taking over for this special Women's Dive Day episode! We chat about recent and upcoming classes and interview 3 amazing women in the dive industry: Scuba Cindy, founder of Scuba Women, Emily Strand, our shop manager and PADI MSDT, and Lydia O'Connor, our colleague and PADI Open Water Instructor. Listen in to hear 4 female perspectives on women in the dive industry and how we can encourage more women of any age to start (or keep) diving!

**REMINDER**

Free Descent is not intended to replace formal dive instruction; always dive within the limits of your training and experience. Please remember to follow the directions of your divemasters and instructors, and have fun out there!

Dive 8: Interview with DiveHeart and Jake’s First Classes

Wed, 28 Jun 2023 23:37:00 -0700

Jake started teaching classes and asks Myles for tips, tricks, and advise for his ocean dives. We welcome on Jim Elliott and Tina Marie Hernandez from DiveHeart. We learn all about the adaptive diving techniques that he has crafted over the years, and his successes through his time working with divers from all walks of life. Last but not least: What should Jake name his dive float? Tell us in the comments and on social media!

**REMINDER**

Surface Interval: Life Waters

Thu, 22 Jun 2023 07:03:00 -0700

Myles and Jake spent a weekend as volunteers, learning and working with Life Waters (www.lifewaters.org) as they introduced disabled veterans to scuba diving as a way to heal from their injuries and remain active through disability. Teaching adaptive divers was an incredibly motivating and humbling experience, and we want to thank the Life Waters team for having us as part of the weekend. This episode features interviews with five veterans, and three of the Life Waters team.

To get involved with us, you can reach out to Myles or Jake on Instagram, or reach out to the Ocean Enterprises Foundation at veterandiving@yahoo.com.

You can also visit www.lifewaters.org and click "contact us". They'll direct you to the closest Life Waters trainer who can answer your questions and help you get involved.

**Reminder** Free Descent is intended as entertainment, and should not be used to replace formal dive instruction. Remember to always follow the directions of your instructors and divemasters, and dive within the limits of your training and experience. Be safe, and have fun out there!

Dive 7: Underwatter with Jason Watters

Thu, 15 Jun 2023 07:16:00 -0700

Dive 7 is all about independence! Jake is done shadowing and started teaching his first independent classes this week, and Myles is fun-diving with her former students and seeing cool stuff. One of Jake's IDC instructors, Jason Watters, stopped by to talk about running an independent shop and all the pros and cons of working outside of a large dive shop/retail store.

Surface Interval: Scuba Queen USA at Scuba Show Long Beach!

Thu, 08 Jun 2023 09:06:00 -0700

Jake went to Scuba Show in Long Beach, CA last weekend to see the latest in greatest in scuba gear and tech, meet new friends and see old ones again! Here are some sneak peeks at the content we've got lined up all summer as we continue the amazing conversations we started at the show! Buddy App - 2:10 to 5:25 Palau - 5:25 to 8:35 Costa Rica - 8:35 to 9:45 Scuba Queen USA 9:45 to 24:00 If you missed us at Scuba Show, hit us up on Instagram! We'll also be at DEMA in the fall, so we hope to see you all there!

Dive 6: Pet Peeves + Photography

Wed, 31 May 2023 22:52:00 -0700

Jake had a dive with the Wounded Warriors program in San Diego, Myles had an awesome Open Water Class, and Jake got his drysuit back (eye roll). Listen in to hear some of their biggest pet peeves about other divers, as well as why Myles and Caleb need to get an apartment with a garage (more eye rolling).

Bonus: Jake gets a bit technical about underwater photography (so interesting)! Want to know more? Meet him at Scuba Show in Long Beach, CA on June 3rd 2023!

Surface Interval - Healing Wounded Warriors

Thu, 25 May 2023 06:11:00 -0700

In this Surface Interval, Jake gets to dive and chat with US Marine Corps veterans Sergeant Brandon Jeffrey, Sergeant Jonathan West and Lance Corporal Jeff Roberts, who are using diving to heal from their physical, mental, and emotional wounds from military and post-military life. This side of diving is something we want to explore more, so send us your reactions on Instagram! @freedescentpodcast NOTE: this episode contains mentions of PTSD and traumatic injuries sustained in combat. To connect with the Foundation, reach out to Veterandiving@yahoo.com.

Dive 5: Fly Time

Thu, 18 May 2023 00:24:00 -0700

The one our adventurers have been waiting for: TRAVEL! Myles tells all about Bali, Gili Trawangan, and Nusa Penida. Jake describes his experience with an Advanced Open Water class. Jake and Myles discuss their travel diving dos and don'ts from gear to dive buddies. Tell us your bucket list dive locations in the comments below or on our instagram @freedescentpodcast ! -

Dive 4: Shop Talk

Thu, 04 May 2023 07:07:00 -0700

Dive 4: Jake has been out of the water too long; Myles had a private lesson; Producer Caleb is certified. We talk about what makes a good dive shop, and Store Manager Emily from Ocean Enterprises comes on to talk about running a dive shop in San Diego.

Surface Interval 2 - Caleb Post-Class

Thu, 20 Apr 2023 08:42:00 -0700

Caleb passed his Open Water class and is now a certified open water diver! We talk about how his class went, the bucket list he's already planning, and his upcoming trip. Check out our Instagram, @FreeDescentPodcast, to see some clips of Caleb's diving adventures!

Dive 3: Styles and Standards

Thu, 13 Apr 2023 03:00:00 -0700

We talk about Jake's first class as an instructor, a scuba review; diver discretion and cancelling dives as a dive professional; and the different styles that divers use while staying within our training standards.

**Reminder**

This podcast is not intended to substitute or supplement formal dive instruction. Always dive within the limits of your training and experience, and always follow the directions and instructions of your instructors and divemasters.

Surface Interval 1 - Caleb Pre-Pool

Wed, 05 Apr 2023 23:22:00 -0700

For our first Surface Interval, Myles and Jake talk to our friend Caleb as he prepares for his pool and ocean sessions of the PADI Open Water Diver class. We talk about class orientation, eLearning, skill preparation and general thoughts about the process. We’ll check back in with him after the class!

Dive 2 - Traditions and Rituals

Wed, 29 Mar 2023 22:55:00 -0700

Jake passed the Instructors Exam and is now a full Open Water Dive Instructor, Myles went to Hawaii and (didn't go scuba diving but) did a Dive Against Debris while snorkeling. We talk about some of your suggestions and our misses on last episode's Favorite Dive Moments podiums, and talk dive routines and traditions (including some very fun ones). We wrap up with suggestions for our 300th dive.

Dive 1: Giant Stride In!

Thu, 16 Mar 2023 04:00:00 -0700

Welcome to Free Descent with Jake and Myles! We are two millennial dive instructors with a goal: to make space for young professionals in the dive industry. In Dive 1 you’ll learn about our journeys from open water divers to PADI professionals, with plenty of dive stories and bad jokes along the way. We share why we love diving and more importantly why we love teaching others how to dive.