The Scuba Diving Podcast

Latest Episodes:

73 | Backplate & Wing should replace the Jacket Style BC for scuba training - with Taylor Schott Oct 04, 2023

Show notes

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/

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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

72 | Crosskix Shoes -Wear them with scuba diving FINS! We had to talk about these at the Surf Expo Sep 21, 2023

Show notes

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

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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

S3:E16 | Her Mask Defog put Stream2Sea on the Map for Scuba Divers, & are saving coral reefs! Sep 16, 2023

Show notes

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

S3:E15 | How a Marine Biologist created Fin Pin with her love of the Ocean, Puns & all things Aquatic Sep 04, 2023

Show notes

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

S3:E14 | Unexpected relationship advice from a Scuba Diver | Couples working together need to hear this (especially divers)! Sep 02, 2023

Show notes

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.

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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

S3:E13 | Get SEEN on the world’s FIRST legit, central hub for scuba divers Aug 29, 2023

Show notes

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

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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

S3:E12 | DeepSea Magazine creator Jeff Scott FINALLY connects Commercial divers, Navy divers, Tech, & local recreational SCUBA diving in a way that lifts up the entire underwater community. Aug 27, 2023

Show notes

***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

S3:E11 | Is Fin Pin the new "Beanie Baby craze" for scuba divers & mermaids? Their Ocean themed artwork is one of THE most popular names in the aquatic lifestyle Aug 10, 2023

Show notes

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

S3:E10 | Why doesn't Scuba Diving have big-named sponsors like other outdoor hobbies & water sports? | Finally, the app called Buddy is bringing divers into the mainstream & getting them seen. Aug 07, 2023

Show notes

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

S3:E09 | Dive professional explains how to work on a Liveaboard Yacht Charter AND launch a new business (the now legendary Spacefish Army) Jul 29, 2023

Show notes

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.

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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