As our summer hiatus continues, it's awesome to be able to bring you with the support of XDEEP, another great episode from the Speaking Sidemount Patreon vault. This time I catch up with PJ Prinsloo. PJ is a technical diving instructor trainer and the Director, Technical Diving for RAID South Africa. As you'll hear, he is passionate about the benefits of sidemount and has a wealth of knowledge from the perspective of a sidemount diver, instructor, instructor trainer, and in his role at RAID. Last year PJ was inducted into the prestigious Explorers Club and in this episode, we go deep into his involvement in the stunning exploration of the Phoenician Wreck in Xlendi Bay off the island of Gozo, Malta. As you know, I spent two amazing seasons at Gozo Technical Diving and this is definitely a place very close to my heart. The exploration dives were at depths over 110m with 3-4 hour dive runtimes which took an immense amount of planning and attention to detail to execute safely. We also discuss sidemount diving and continue our voyage into the state of sidemount diving and instruction. We talk about what it takes to be a great sidemount instructor, the economic argument for focussing on smaller class sizes and more attention to course quality, PJ's thoughts on optimising your sidemount setup, sliding d-rings. We continue discussing sidemount CCR and how he sees this through the students that come on his courses. We finish reminiscing about our trips to Chuuk and the wrecks of Truk Lagoon.

As our summer hiatus continues, it's awesome to be able to bring you with the support of XDEEP, another great episode from the Speaking Sidemount Patreon vault. This time I catch up with PJ Prinsloo. PJ is a technical diving instructor trainer and the Director, Technical Diving for RAID South Africa. As you'll hear, he is passionate about the benefits of sidemount and has a wealth of knowledge from the perspective of a sidemount diver, instructor, instructor trainer, and in his role at RAID. Last year PJ was inducted into the prestigious Explorers Club and in this episode, we go deep into his involvement in the stunning exploration of the Phoenician Wreck in Xlendi Bay off the island of Gozo, Malta. As you know, I spent two amazing seasons at Gozo Technical Diving and this is definitely a place very close to my heart. The exploration dives were at depths over 110m with 3-4 hour dive runtimes which took an immense amount of planning and attention to detail to execute safely. We also discuss sidemount diving and continue our voyage into the state of sidemount diving and instruction. We talk about what it takes to be a great sidemount instructor, the economic argument for focussing on smaller class sizes and more attention to course quality, PJ's thoughts on optimising your sidemount setup, sliding d-rings. We continue discussing sidemount CCR and how he sees this through the students that come on his courses. We finish reminiscing about our trips to Chuuk and the wrecks of Truk Lagoon.

Special Release - E052 PJ Prinsloo

Chris Jewell

I'm super excited to publicly release Episode #50 with Chris Jewell. Previously this episode was only available to Patrons of Speaking Sidemount and is brought to you with the support of XDEEP. Chris is a member of the British Cave Diving Group and was part of the team involved in the acclaimed Thai Cave rescue. Chris took part in the actual extraction dives of the rescue and in doing so became part of history as a key part of one of the greatest rescues of modern times. Awards, accolades and numerous TV and speaking appearances followed and so it was awesome nearly 2 years later to catch up with Chris and ask him about how he got into cave diving, his experience in training and becoming part of the CDG, the importance of mentoring to the CDG training process. Chris reflects on his experience in Thailand some two years after the rescue, and he shares more on his terrifying lost line episode while extracting one of the boys from the cave. Chris and I discuss the distinctions between sump diving and traditional cave diving, how this then drives decisions about your equipment configuration. We dive into detail on Chris' UK sump diving sidemount set up, we talk conceptually about carrying a long hose, gas sharing scenarios, and some of Chris' favourite cave exploration projects. Enjoy, Steve

I'm super excited to publicly release Episode #50 with Chris Jewell. Previously this episode was only available to Patrons of Speaking Sidemount and is brought to you with the support of XDEEP. Chris is a member of the British Cave Diving Group and was part of the team involved in the acclaimed Thai Cave rescue. Chris took part in the actual extraction dives of the rescue and in doing so became part of history as a key part of one of the greatest rescues of modern times. Awards, accolades and numerous TV and speaking appearances followed and so it was awesome nearly 2 years later to catch up with Chris and ask him about how he got into cave diving, his experience in training and becoming part of the CDG, the importance of mentoring to the CDG training process. Chris reflects on his experience in Thailand some two years after the rescue, and he shares more on his terrifying lost line episode while extracting one of the boys from the cave. Chris and I discuss the distinctions between sump diving and traditional cave diving, how this then drives decisions about your equipment configuration. We dive into detail on Chris' UK sump diving sidemount set up, we talk conceptually about carrying a long hose, gas sharing scenarios, and some of Chris' favourite cave exploration projects. Enjoy, Steve

Special Release - E050 Chris Jewell: Beyond Thailand

Hey all, Happy New Year. I hope that wherever you are, that you are well and doing OK. Excited to provide the first episode of 2021 brought to you by XDEEP and the patrons of Speaking Sidemount. Thanks so much to both for their support. In this episode, I catch up with Florida based, cave instructor, explorer and author, Rob Neto,  Rob has just released the 2nd edition of his book "Sidemount Diving, The Almost Comprehensive Guide". Despite the title, this is, without doubt, the most complete written work on sidemount diving with over 300 pages of how-to and the whys behind all of it. In this episode, Rob and I get into the book, chat some on different aspects of sidemount before he shares on his cave exploration exploits in Cozumel. He has graciously shared a discount code for all of you which is valid until the end of Feb. Just go to his website at https://bit.ly/38XOK1Q and use the coupon code speakingsidemount for a $15 discount. Cheers Steve

Hey all, Happy New Year. I hope that wherever you are, that you are well and doing OK. Excited to provide the first episode of 2021 brought to you by XDEEP and the patrons of Speaking Sidemount. Thanks so much to both for their support. In this episode, I catch up with Florida based, cave instructor, explorer and author, Rob Neto,  Rob has just released the 2nd edition of his book "Sidemount Diving, The Almost Comprehensive Guide". Despite the title, this is, without doubt, the most complete written work on sidemount diving with over 300 pages of how-to and the whys behind all of it. In this episode, Rob and I get into the book, chat some on different aspects of sidemount before he shares on his cave exploration exploits in Cozumel. He has graciously shared a discount code for all of you which is valid until the end of Feb. Just go to his website at <a href="https://bit.ly/38XOK1Q" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">https://bit.ly/38XOK1Q</a> and use the coupon code speakingsidemount for a $15 discount. Cheers Steve

E062 - Rob Neto - The Almost Comprehensive Guide to Sidemount

Here it is... the last episode of 2020 with Speaking Sidemount Gold Patron, Sean Wheller. Sean and I have been communicating online for well over a year, and in fact, he was one of the very first patrons to support the show. He's a sidemount diver, a decompression and cave diver and continues to progress his training with PJ Prinsloo in South Africa.  In this episode, Sean and I chat about his diving, how he started in sidemount learning from Steve Martin's videos, his training with PJ Prinsloo, how he has worked to develop his diving and overcome mental challenges as he addresses cave training in particular. We talk about the benefit of a variety of instructors and also get into diving in South Africa, in particular, Sodwana bay and Komati Springs. Wishing you all an awesome holiday season and all the best for next year. Thanks again for the support :)!!

Here it is... the last episode of 2020 with Speaking Sidemount Gold Patron, Sean Wheller. Sean and I have been communicating online for well over a year, and in fact, he was one of the very first patrons to support the show. He's a sidemount diver, a decompression and cave diver and continues to progress his training with PJ Prinsloo in South Africa.  In this episode, Sean and I chat about his diving, how he started in sidemount learning from Steve Martin's videos, his training with PJ Prinsloo, how he has worked to develop his diving and overcome mental challenges as he addresses cave training in particular. We talk about the benefit of a variety of instructors and also get into diving in South Africa, in particular, Sodwana bay and Komati Springs. Wishing you all an awesome holiday season and all the best for next year. Thanks again for the support :)!!

E061 - Sean Wheller

This episode is sponsored by XDEEP and supported by the patrons of Speaking Sidemount. I'm really excited to share this episode with you featuring my chat with Tamara May. I first sighted Tamara on YouTube, I think about 5 or 6 years ago as the star of an excellent sidemount configuration and skills video shot in Mexico. The skills were excellent but as I was taken with the video flow, the camera and editing work which really made the video incredibly compelling. More recently I saw Tamara listed as one of the exploration divers on Robbie Schmitter's all-female cave exploration team for the Xunaan-Ha Expedition in 2021. I thought this was a great initiative bringing together a group of great divers with disparate experiences and skillsets to complete a new exploration project under the guidance of an experienced cave explorer. In this episode, Tamara and I discuss: how she got into diving and it became her life's passion. We discuss her travels to various parts of the world to train, work and develop as a diver and instructor. We get into her work at Protec Mexico with Patrick, Kim and the Protec team and also how she set up her own diving brand... Dive like a Ninja. We chat about her upcoming Xunaan-Ha Expedition project with Robbie Schmitter. Check out here for how you can support the team in this awesome project - https://www.gofundme.com/f/the-xunaanha-expedition 

This episode is sponsored by XDEEP and supported by the patrons of Speaking Sidemount. I'm really excited to share this episode with you featuring my chat with Tamara May. I first sighted Tamara on YouTube, I think about 5 or 6 years ago as the star of an excellent sidemount configuration and skills video shot in Mexico. The skills were excellent but as I was taken with the video flow, the camera and editing work which really made the video incredibly compelling. More recently I saw Tamara listed as one of the exploration divers on Robbie Schmitter's all-female cave exploration team for the Xunaan-Ha Expedition in 2021. I thought this was a great initiative bringing together a group of great divers with disparate experiences and skillsets to complete a new exploration project under the guidance of an experienced cave explorer. In this episode, Tamara and I discuss: how she got into diving and it became her life's passion. We discuss her travels to various parts of the world to train, work and develop as a diver and instructor. We get into her work at Protec Mexico with Patrick, Kim and the Protec team and also how she set up her own diving brand... Dive like a Ninja. We chat about her upcoming Xunaan-Ha Expedition project with Robbie Schmitter. Check out here for how you can support the team in this awesome project - <a href="https://www.gofundme.com/f/the-xunaanha-expedition" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.gofundme.com/f/the-xunaanha-expedition</a>

E060 - Tamara May

Victor Tovar

 This episode is sponsored by XDEEP and supported by the patrons of Speaking Sidemount.   Victor Tovar is the principal of Cave Tribe through which he provides specialised and personalised diving training with an emphasis on sidemount and cave courses. Victor is passionate about foundational skills and as you'll hear in this episode he focuses on progressively building foundational skills while gaining experience and comfort in the environments his students wish to explore.   In this episode Victor and I discuss... His background in diving and how he got into sidemount and cave diving. We discuss and he shares more on his philosophy in developing divers, we talk about the importance of selecting the right equipment... The traps for instructors in forming relationships with equipment manufacturers, and then we go deep and far into Victor's home cave, Cueva Del Agua... We talk about what makes it different and how it's unique challenges make it a great cave for both new and seasoned cave divers... We discuss the difference between exploration and sport cave diving and then finish with an update on the current extent of exploration of Cueva Del Agua... All this and much more...   #XDEEP  #SidemountPros #Sidemountdiving #Cavediving #Cuevadelagua #Cavetribe

This episode is sponsored by XDEEP and supported by the patrons of Speaking Sidemount. Victor Tovar is the principal of Cave Tribe through which he provides specialised and personalised diving training with an emphasis on sidemount and cave courses. Victor is passionate about foundational skills and as you'll hear in this episode he focuses on progressively building foundational skills while gaining experience and comfort in the environments his students wish to explore. In this episode Victor and I discuss... His background in diving and how he got into sidemount and cave diving. We discuss and he shares more on his philosophy in developing divers, we talk about the importance of selecting the right equipment... The traps for instructors in forming relationships with equipment manufacturers, and then we go deep and far into Victor's home cave, Cueva Del Agua... We talk about what makes it different and how it's unique challenges make it a great cave for both new and seasoned cave divers... We discuss the difference between exploration and sport cave diving and then finish with an update on the current extent of exploration of Cueva Del Agua... All this and much more... #XDEEP  #SidemountPros #Sidemountdiving #Cavediving #Cuevadelagua #Cavetribe

E059 - Victor Tovar

Steve Bogaerts

 This episode is sponsored by XDEEP and supported by the patrons of Speaking Sidemount.   This is the second episode in this series where I catch up with renowned cave explorer Steve Bogaerts. Over the past two years, Steve has had it pretty tough with respect to diving. A series of DCS incidents, on successive dives, each a little worse than the previous, has led Steve to hang up his fins and retire from diving. Just the thought of one of the world's great cave explorers having to quit under circumstances such as this is gut-wrenching but to his credit, Steve has continued to be active and regularly shares enlightening posts of various topics related to sidemount. Cave diving and exploration.   In this episode, Steve and I discuss his DCS incidents, what he has learned about them, his thoughts on the possible cause, his advice for professional divers, and his plans for the future.   #XDEEP #cavediving #sidemountdiving #stevebogaerts #sidemountpros   Sponsor - www.xdeep.eu   To support the show go to www.patreon.com/speakingsidemount  To contact Steve Bogaerts steve@gosidemount.com

This episode is sponsored by XDEEP and supported by the patrons of Speaking Sidemount. This is the second episode in this series where I catch up with renowned cave explorer Steve Bogaerts. Over the past two years, Steve has had it pretty tough with respect to diving. A series of DCS incidents, on successive dives, each a little worse than the previous, has led Steve to hang up his fins and retire from diving. Just the thought of one of the world's great cave explorers having to quit under circumstances such as this is gut-wrenching but to his credit, Steve has continued to be active and regularly shares enlightening posts of various topics related to sidemount. Cave diving and exploration. In this episode, Steve and I discuss his DCS incidents, what he has learned about them, his thoughts on the possible cause, his advice for professional divers, and his plans for the future. #XDEEP #cavediving #sidemountdiving #stevebogaerts #sidemountpros Sponsor - <a href="http://www.xdeep.eu" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.xdeep.eu</a> To support the show go to <a href="http://www.patreon.com/speakingsidemount" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.patreon.com/speakingsidemount</a> To contact Steve Bogaerts <a href="mailto:steve@gosidemount.com">steve@gosidemount.com</a>

E057 - Steve Bogaerts Dealing With Career Ending DCS

Mathieu Burdon

Great to release Episode #55 with our VIP Patron of the Month, Matt Burdon. Matt is a Public Safety Diving Team Leader, Tech Dive Instructor, VIP Patron of Speaking Sidemount, and survivor of a serious infection of COVID-19.      Matt graciously joined me to share in detail his experiences contracting COVID-19, from the knowledge that it had infected his workplace to seeing a colleague die, to his own battle with COVID, including 17 days in a coma. Matt's story is both frightening and inspiring. You'll hear about his symptoms, admission to hospital, and intensive care... His family and friends being told that he won't make it, to the medical team pulling out the stops and saving his life. Matt talks about the after-effects, his rehab, and his path back to diving. Matt and I then share our thoughts on the global pandemic and the responses of various countries around the world. This episode is a must-listen for all divers and huge thanks again to XDEEP for their support of speaking sidemount and to our growing Patron community who graciously contribute to the production of every episode.

Great to release Episode #55 with our VIP Patron of the Month, Matt Burdon. Matt is a Public Safety Diving Team Leader, Tech Dive Instructor, VIP Patron of Speaking Sidemount, and survivor of a serious infection of COVID-19.      Matt graciously joined me to share in detail his experiences contracting COVID-19, from the knowledge that it had infected his workplace to seeing a colleague die, to his own battle with COVID, including 17 days in a coma. Matt's story is both frightening and inspiring. You'll hear about his symptoms, admission to hospital, and intensive care... His family and friends being told that he won't make it, to the medical team pulling out the stops and saving his life. Matt talks about the after-effects, his rehab, and his path back to diving. Matt and I then share our thoughts on the global pandemic and the responses of various countries around the world. This episode is a must-listen for all divers and huge thanks again to XDEEP for their support of speaking sidemount and to our growing Patron community who graciously contribute to the production of every episode.

E055 - Mathieu Burdon - Surviving COVID-19

Robert Thomas

 In this episode, brought to you by XDEEP with the support of the patrons of Speaking Sidemount, I catch up with British cave diver and instructor Robert Thomas. Robert has had an extraordinary beginning to his dive career, first diving at the age of 6... Joining the ranks of certified divers at the tender age of 10 before starting to cave dive in his teens. At 18 as soon as he was old enough he joined the ranks of the famed British Cave Diving Group and a year later he qualified as a full member. He's now the secretary for the Somerset Section of the CDG and when he not diving or teaching diving, he's dry caving in the caves of the UK.   Robert has progressed under the expert tutelage of his Dad, Michael Thomas and in Robert's words... has also been passed around to learn and develop with many other great divers and instructors including my guest in Ep# 33, cave explorer and shark conservationist... Cristina Zenato.   As you'll hear in this episode, there's an old head on those young shoulders and you can feel and hear the depth of thought and also training that has gone into his diving to date. It was interesting to get Robert's perspective as a young diver and instructor on the state of diving and training and where he sees things going in the future. I also take a moment to ask him about some of his recent videos on British Cave diving techniques, how these differ from what you'll see in other parts of the world, how dry caving helps cave diving, and we discuss his sidemount set up before reminiscing about our dives in Gozo Malta.   Become a patron here - https://www.patreon.com/speakingsidemount

In this episode, brought to you by XDEEP with the support of the patrons of Speaking Sidemount, I catch up with British cave diver and instructor Robert Thomas. Robert has had an extraordinary beginning to his dive career, first diving at the age of 6... Joining the ranks of certified divers at the tender age of 10 before starting to cave dive in his teens. At 18 as soon as he was old enough he joined the ranks of the famed British Cave Diving Group and a year later he qualified as a full member. He's now the secretary for the Somerset Section of the CDG and when he not diving or teaching diving, he's dry caving in the caves of the UK. Robert has progressed under the expert tutelage of his Dad, Michael Thomas and in Robert's words... has also been passed around to learn and develop with many other great divers and instructors including my guest in Ep# 33, cave explorer and shark conservationist... Cristina Zenato. As you'll hear in this episode, there's an old head on those young shoulders and you can feel and hear the depth of thought and also training that has gone into his diving to date. It was interesting to get Robert's perspective as a young diver and instructor on the state of diving and training and where he sees things going in the future. I also take a moment to ask him about some of his recent videos on British Cave diving techniques, how these differ from what you'll see in other parts of the world, how dry caving helps cave diving, and we discuss his sidemount set up before reminiscing about our dives in Gozo Malta. Become a patron here - <a href="https://www.patreon.com/speakingsidemount" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.patreon.com/speakingsidemount</a>

E053 - Robert Thomas - The Next Generation

Brendon Allen

 This episode is brought to you with the support of XDEEP and our amazing patrons, which makes everything you are about to listen to possible.   If love Speaking Sidemount and would you'd like to know more about how you can support the show by becoming a patron, go to www.patreon.com/speakingsidemont   This month's VIP Patron of the Month and my guest on this episode is Brendon Allen. Brendon is based and works as a commercial pilot in the UAE. But he also is a passionate diver and instructor and through his business Desert Reef Dive Systems, he is bringing top shelf, sidemount, recreational, and technical dive training to the region. He's a RAID Instructor Trainer and is passionate about the future of sidemount diving. We've been discussing this very subject for some months, that is how can we improve the standard of both instruction and diving in sidemount. In this episode, Brendon and I freewheel a bunch of ideas and share our thoughts on this, looking not only to address the issues but to come up with some solutions that might help to fix sidemount.

This episode is brought to you with the support of XDEEP and our amazing patrons, which makes everything you are about to listen to possible.  If love Speaking Sidemount and would you'd like to know more about how you can support the show by becoming a patron, go to <a href="http://www.patreon.com/speakingsidemont" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.patreon.com/speakingsidemont</a> This month's VIP Patron of the Month and my guest on this episode is Brendon Allen. Brendon is based and works as a commercial pilot in the UAE. But he also is a passionate diver and instructor and through his business Desert Reef Dive Systems, he is bringing top shelf, sidemount, recreational, and technical dive training to the region. He's a RAID Instructor Trainer and is passionate about the future of sidemount diving. We've been discussing this very subject for some months, that is how can we improve the standard of both instruction and diving in sidemount. In this episode, Brendon and I freewheel a bunch of ideas and share our thoughts on this, looking not only to address the issues but to come up with some solutions that might help to fix sidemount.

E051 - Brendon Allen - Fixing Sidemount

The podcast where we talk all things sidemount diving, from equipment, skills, techniques and sidemount diving expeditions to interviews with some of the world's top sidemount divers. Whether you are new to sidemount diving, been diving sidemount for years or are just want to know more, this is THE place for all things sidemount.Subscribe to receive new episodes every week. If you like the podcast please consider leaving us a 5-star review. More info via our website and Facebook page:https://www.sidemountpros.com https://www.facebook.com/speakingsidemount/

I'm super excited to release Episode #50 as our very first premium episode available exclusively to patrons. This is an extended trailer brought to you with the support of XDEEP. To access the full episode go to - https://www.patreon.com/speakingsidemount In this episode, I speak with British cave diver, Chris Jewell. Chris is a member of the British Cave Diving Group and was part of the team involved in the Thai Cave rescue nearly 2 years ago now. Chris took part in the actual extraction dives of the rescue and in doing so became part of history as a key part of one of the greatest rescues of modern times. Awards, accolades and numerous TV and speaking appearances followed and so it is awesome nearly 2 years later to catch up with Chris and ask him about how he got into cave diving, his experience in training and becoming part of the CDG, the importance of mentoring to the CDG training process. Chris reflects on his experience in Thailand some two years after the rescue, and he shares more on his terrifying lost line episode while extracting one of the boys from the cave. Chris and I discuss the distinctions between sump diving and traditional cave diving, how this then drives decisions about your equipment configuration. We dive into detail on Chris' UK sump diving sidemount set up, we talk conceptually about carrying a long hose, gas sharing scenarios, and some of Chris' favourite cave exploration projects. Enjoy, Steve

I'm super excited to release Episode #50 as our very first premium episode available exclusively to patrons. This is an extended trailer brought to you with the support of XDEEP. To access the full episode go to - <a href="https://www.patreon.com/speakingsidemount" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.patreon.com/speakingsidemount</a> In this episode, I speak with British cave diver, Chris Jewell. Chris is a member of the British Cave Diving Group and was part of the team involved in the Thai Cave rescue nearly 2 years ago now. Chris took part in the actual extraction dives of the rescue and in doing so became part of history as a key part of one of the greatest rescues of modern times. Awards, accolades and numerous TV and speaking appearances followed and so it is awesome nearly 2 years later to catch up with Chris and ask him about how he got into cave diving, his experience in training and becoming part of the CDG, the importance of mentoring to the CDG training process. Chris reflects on his experience in Thailand some two years after the rescue, and he shares more on his terrifying lost line episode while extracting one of the boys from the cave. Chris and I discuss the distinctions between sump diving and traditional cave diving, how this then drives decisions about your equipment configuration. We dive into detail on Chris' UK sump diving sidemount set up, we talk conceptually about carrying a long hose, gas sharing scenarios, and some of Chris' favourite cave exploration projects. Enjoy, Steve

E050 - Chris Jewell - Beyond Thailand Extended Trailer

Brian Kakuk

Thanks so much to XDEEP and also to the patrons of Speaking Sidemount whose support enables this podcast. In this episode, I catch up again with Brian Kakuk of Bahamas Underground and he shares the emotional story of his recovery following Hurricane Dorian and how he is dealing with the current COVID lockdown. We also get into his exploration of the Crystal Caves of Abaco, Sidemount CCR, using the Shearwater NERD 2, and Brian's involvement in Jonathan Bird's brilliant IMAX feature... Amazing Caves. Thanks again to Brian for sharing. Thanks also and image credit to Jill Heinerth - Into the Planet, and Nancy Albury.

Thanks so much to XDEEP and also to the patrons of Speaking Sidemount whose support enables this podcast. In this episode, I catch up again with Brian Kakuk of Bahamas Underground and he shares the emotional story of his recovery following Hurricane Dorian and how he is dealing with the current COVID lockdown. We also get into his exploration of the Crystal Caves of Abaco, Sidemount CCR, using the Shearwater NERD 2, and Brian's involvement in Jonathan Bird's brilliant IMAX feature... Amazing Caves. Thanks again to Brian for sharing. Thanks also and image credit to Jill Heinerth - Into the Planet, and Nancy Albury.

E049 - Brian Kakuk Interview II

David Debruyne

In this episode sponsored by XDEEP, I interview David Debruyne of Outcast Explorers in Belgium. Huge thanks to the patrons of Speaking Sidemount who are helping to produce the episode you are about to listen to. David teaches sidemount and cave diving in Belgium and other parts of Europe. We catch up and discuss his experiences training with Garry Dallas, how Outcast Explorers was formed, how he configures his sidemount gear, how he teaches sidemount, sidemount boat diving in the North Sea, his exploration of the mines of Belgium, and then we talk sidemount rebreathers and the KISS Sidewinder... All this and much more in this episode of Speaking Sidemount. Become a patron - https://www.patreon.com/speakingsidemount

In this episode sponsored by XDEEP, I interview David Debruyne of Outcast Explorers in Belgium. Huge thanks to the patrons of Speaking Sidemount who are helping to produce the episode you are about to listen to. David teaches sidemount and cave diving in Belgium and other parts of Europe. We catch up and discuss his experiences training with Garry Dallas, how Outcast Explorers was formed, how he configures his sidemount gear, how he teaches sidemount, sidemount boat diving in the North Sea, his exploration of the mines of Belgium, and then we talk sidemount rebreathers and the KISS Sidewinder... All this and much more in this episode of Speaking Sidemount. Become a patron - <a href="https://www.patreon.com/speakingsidemount" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.patreon.com/speakingsidemount</a>

E048 - David Debruyne Interview

Ryan Custureri

As I've mentioned a few times, I am often frustrated with the level of criticism and lack of respect shown on some of the sidemount Facebook groups. I guess there's an element of human nature in there and also comments are taken out of context or misunderstood due to language barriers or the limitations of the written word. You do see genuinely helpful comments but these are also sometimes shouted down or lost in the dross of the string. So I took note when a while back when Florida based Dive Instructor Ryan Custureri offered to do a live session free of charge for a new sidemount diver looking for some help. I thought that was very cool and I have seen Ryan referenced positively many times by his students and his videos are top-notch.  So... I thought I'd reach out to Ryan to ask his thoughts on sidemount diving, equipment set up, how he boat dives in Florida, how to choose your instructor, and his advice for instructors looking to set up on their own... All this and much more in this episode of Speaking Sidemount. Huge thanks to XDEEP for their support of Speaking Sidemount.

As I've mentioned a few times, I am often frustrated with the level of criticism and lack of respect shown on some of the sidemount Facebook groups. I guess there's an element of human nature in there and also comments are taken out of context or misunderstood due to language barriers or the limitations of the written word. You do see genuinely helpful comments but these are also sometimes shouted down or lost in the dross of the string. So I took note when a while back when Florida based Dive Instructor Ryan Custureri offered to do a live session free of charge for a new sidemount diver looking for some help. I thought that was very cool and I have seen Ryan referenced positively many times by his students and his videos are top-notch.  So... I thought I'd reach out to Ryan to ask his thoughts on sidemount diving, equipment set up, how he boat dives in Florida, how to choose your instructor, and his advice for instructors looking to set up on their own... All this and much more in this episode of Speaking Sidemount. Huge thanks to XDEEP for their support of Speaking Sidemount.

E047 - Ryan Custureri Interview

Sandra Clopp

In this episode sponsored by XDEEP, I catch up with Sandra Clopp. Sandra is an exceptional diver, instructor, adventurer, and role model for aspiring divers. I seriously enjoyed our discussions and the depth of thought and practice she has put into her growth as a diver and teacher.   She walks the talk and by that I mean, she hones her skills through regular practice, she seeks out and forms relationships with mentors from whom she can learn and follow. And then ultimately, she travels the world enjoying adventures that enrich her own diving.  In this episode, Sandra and I discuss, how she got into diving and sidemount diving. How seeking out cave diving instruction benefits your diving at all levels, we talk sidemount boat diving and introduce how we are diving the KISS Sidewinder from boats. We discuss sidemount setup and contrast Florida and Mexico style sidemount diving, and we talk at length about Sandra's upcoming training and her work as a KISS ambassador... All this and much, much more...   Thanks to:  XDEEP - https://www.xdeep.eu/

In this episode sponsored by XDEEP, I catch up with Sandra Clopp. Sandra is an exceptional diver, instructor, adventurer, and role model for aspiring divers. I seriously enjoyed our discussions and the depth of thought and practice she has put into her growth as a diver and teacher. She walks the talk and by that I mean, she hones her skills through regular practice, she seeks out and forms relationships with mentors from whom she can learn and follow. And then ultimately, she travels the world enjoying adventures that enrich her own diving. In this episode, Sandra and I discuss, how she got into diving and sidemount diving. How seeking out cave diving instruction benefits your diving at all levels, we talk sidemount boat diving and introduce how we are diving the KISS Sidewinder from boats. We discuss sidemount setup and contrast Florida and Mexico style sidemount diving, and we talk at length about Sandra's upcoming training and her work as a KISS ambassador... All this and much, much more... Thanks to: XDEEP - <a href="https://www.xdeep.eu/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.xdeep.eu/</a>

E046 - Sandra Clopp Interview

Roger Williams

In this episode sponsored by XDEEP, I catch up with Mexico based cave diver, explorer, and instructor, Roger Williams of Xoc-Ha.  We talked about how Roger got into diving, cave diving and instructing. We contrast the paths that you can take in diving - becoming an instructor or... focusing on developing as a diver through tech training. I get Roger's perspectives on sidemount and how he dives sidemount in the caves of the Yucatan Peninsula.  We discuss the importance of using local guides to build knowledge of a new area and then we cover the local line committee who make collective decisions on permanent lines and markers for the region.  We finish by getting Rogers perspective on the "Somos Los Cenotes" initiative and the importance of conservation with respect to real estate development.   #somosloscenotes #Xoc-Ha #cavediving #sidemountdiving #sidemountpros   Xoc-Ha - https://www.xoc-ha.com/  Sidemount Fundamentals eBook - https://www.sidemountpros.com/store

In this episode sponsored by XDEEP, I catch up with Mexico based cave diver, explorer, and instructor, Roger Williams of Xoc-Ha. We talked about how Roger got into diving, cave diving and instructing. We contrast the paths that you can take in diving - becoming an instructor or... focusing on developing as a diver through tech training. I get Roger's perspectives on sidemount and how he dives sidemount in the caves of the Yucatan Peninsula. We discuss the importance of using local guides to build knowledge of a new area and then we cover the local line committee who make collective decisions on permanent lines and markers for the region. We finish by getting Rogers perspective on the "Somos Los Cenotes" initiative and the importance of conservation with respect to real estate development. #somosloscenotes #Xoc-Ha #cavediving #sidemountdiving #sidemountpros Xoc-Ha - <a href="https://www.xoc-ha.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.xoc-ha.com/</a> Sidemount Fundamentals eBook - <a href="https://www.sidemountpros.com/store" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.sidemountpros.com/store</a>

E045 - Roger Williams Interview

In this episode sponsored by XDEEP, I catch up again with Toddy and we talk all things caves in Sardinia. We then go deep into his staggering cave exploration Project Utopia where Toddy is set to break cave exploration distance records while employing cutting edge decompression strategies to accomplish these amazing dives. Listen in to hear how Toddy is doing this and also how he is helping to develop the next generation of Cave Explorers at Protec Sardinia. #XDEEP, #SupramonteKarstExplorationProject #ProtecSardinia #ProjectUtopia #SidemountPros #cavediving #caveexploration https://www.xdeep.eu/ https://protecsardinia.com/

In this episode sponsored by XDEEP, I catch up again with Toddy and we talk all things caves in Sardinia. We then go deep into his staggering cave exploration Project Utopia where Toddy is set to break cave exploration distance records while employing cutting edge decompression strategies to accomplish these amazing dives. Listen in to hear how Toddy is doing this and also how he is helping to develop the next generation of Cave Explorers at Protec Sardinia. #XDEEP, #SupramonteKarstExplorationProject #ProtecSardinia #ProjectUtopia #SidemountPros #cavediving #caveexploration <a href="https://www.xdeep.eu/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.xdeep.eu/</a> <a href="https://protecsardinia.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://protecsardinia.com/</a>

E044 - Thorsten-Toddy-Waelde - Project Utopia & The Caves of Sardinia

Audrey Cudel

Steve Davis

In this episode sponsored by XDEEP and Shearwater Research, we "turn the tables" and Audrey Cudel interviews me! We talk about, my vision when I started Speaking Sidemount, how I develop episodes and find interview guests, how my own knowledge has grown through the interviews. We discuss the diving here in NZ and the sidemount training courses that I run. We cover my experience training on the KISS Sidewinder with Edd Sorenson, and plans for future CCR diving, diving the XDEEP Stealth 2.0 Tec with the Sidewinder, and we finish with my thoughts on the current state of sidemount diving. #XDEEP #Shearwaterresearch #sidemountdiving #cavediving #sidemountccr #KISSSidewinder #Sidemountpros #Stevedavis #audreycudel 

In this episode sponsored by XDEEP and Shearwater Research, we "turn the tables" and Audrey Cudel interviews me! We talk about, my vision when I started Speaking Sidemount, how I develop episodes and find interview guests, how my own knowledge has grown through the interviews. We discuss the diving here in NZ and the sidemount training courses that I run. We cover my experience training on the KISS Sidewinder with Edd Sorenson, and plans for future CCR diving, diving the XDEEP Stealth 2.0 Tec with the Sidewinder, and we finish with my thoughts on the current state of sidemount diving. #XDEEP #Shearwaterresearch #sidemountdiving #cavediving #sidemountccr #KISSSidewinder #Sidemountpros #Stevedavis #audreycudel

E043 - Turning the Tables - Steve Davis with Audrey Cudel

Chris Dawson

In this episode sponsored by XDEEP, I catch up with Chris Dawson to discuss his experiences dealing with PTSD and depression following two operational tours in Iraq with the British Army. In this inspiring story, Chris shares his journey from rock-bottom to recovery through diving and how he has become involved with the organisation, 'Dive Against Depression' where he is working to help others affected by mental health issues. Chris and I also discuss sidemount diving, cave diving, and our recent transition to diving sidemount CCR. Sponsor XDEEP - https://www.xdeep.eu Dive Against Depression - https://www.facebook.com/diveagainstdepression/ #xdeep #ptsd #depression #mentalhealth #diveagainstdepression #sidemountdiving #cavediving #sidemountccr #sidemountpros

In this episode sponsored by XDEEP, I catch up with Chris Dawson to discuss his experiences dealing with PTSD and depression following two operational tours in Iraq with the British Army. In this inspiring story, Chris shares his journey from rock-bottom to recovery through diving and how he has become involved with the organisation, 'Dive Against Depression' where he is working to help others affected by mental health issues. Chris and I also discuss sidemount diving, cave diving, and our recent transition to diving sidemount CCR. Sponsor XDEEP - <a href="https://www.xdeep.eu" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.xdeep.eu</a> Dive Against Depression - <a href="https://www.facebook.com/diveagainstdepression/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/diveagainstdepression/</a> #xdeep #ptsd #depression #mentalhealth #diveagainstdepression #sidemountdiving #cavediving #sidemountccr #sidemountpros

E042 - Chris Dawson on Dive Against Depression

Richard Harris

 What you are about to hear is the first-hand account of the experiences of Richard "Harry" Harris during the Thai cave rescue. His excitement at the opportunity to participate was quickly replaced by the trepidation of what the rescue team faced. They almost certainly would witness the deaths of the 12 boys and their coach and there was little hope that they would be successful. But they had to try.   Harry had to deal with ethical dilemmas as he agreed to the plan to anesthetise the kids and then submerge them underwater for up to 3 hours to transport them out of the cave.   This account focuses on the events and also on the diving aspects of the rescue. How they actually accomplished the dives, the equipment they used the conditions they faced the skills sets, what went well and the near misses that occurred. All this and much more... Sponsor: XDEEP - https://www.xdeep.eu/ #XDEEP #Sidemountpros #sidemountdiving #cavediving #Caveccr #sidemountccr #Thaicaverescue #Richard Harris #Againstallodds

What you are about to hear is the first-hand account of the experiences of Richard "Harry" Harris during the Thai cave rescue. His excitement at the opportunity to participate was quickly replaced by the trepidation of what the rescue team faced. They almost certainly would witness the deaths of the 12 boys and their coach and there was little hope that they would be successful. But they had to try. Harry had to deal with ethical dilemmas as he agreed to the plan to anesthetise the kids and then submerge them underwater for up to 3 hours to transport them out of the cave. This account focuses on the events and also on the diving aspects of the rescue. How they actually accomplished the dives, the equipment they used the conditions they faced the skills sets, what went well and the near misses that occurred. All this and much more... Sponsor: XDEEP - <a href="https://www.xdeep.eu/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.xdeep.eu/</a> #XDEEP #Sidemountpros #sidemountdiving #cavediving #Caveccr #sidemountccr #Thaicaverescue #Richard Harris #Againstallodds

E041- Richard Harris - Against All Odds: The Thai Cave Rescue

Great podcast, lots of information for not only sidemount divers but any diver looking for great information. Guest speakers are second to none and Steve knows exactly how to coax the best stories from them!

Favorite podcast

By far the best diving podcast out there right now.

👍

The podcast where we talk all things sidemount diving, from equipment, skills, techniques and sidemount diving expeditions to interviews with some of the world's top sidemount divers. Whether you are new to sidemount diving, been diving sidemount for years or are just want to know more, this is THE place for all things sidemount. Subscribe to receive new episodes every week. If you like the podcast please consider leaving us a 5-star review. More info via our website and Facebook page: <a href="https://www.sidemountpros.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.sidemountpros.com</a> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/speakingsidemount/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/speakingsidemount/</a>

Speaking Sidemount

Erik Brown

 Less than four months ago the world held its collective breath as a team of amazing divers from around the world supported by thousands accomplished the impossible, and rescued 12 boys and their coach from a flooded cave in northern Thailand. In this episode, Erik Brown shares his experiences of his involvement in the rescue, the scene that greeted them, the organisation, long days, how the rescue plans were developed, and meeting other members of the rescue team...  This is an brilliant story, please share the podcast with your friends.

Less than four months ago the world held its collective breath as a team of amazing divers from around the world supported by thousands accomplished the impossible, and rescued 12 boys and their coach from a flooded cave in northern Thailand. In this episode, Erik Brown shares his experiences of his involvement in the rescue, the scene that greeted them, the organisation, long days, how the rescue plans were developed, and meeting other members of the rescue team...  This is an brilliant story, please share the podcast with your friends.

E014 - The Thai Cave Rescue with Erik Brown

James Draker

Marissa Eckert

Marissa Eckert and James Draker are the owners of Hidden Worlds, Fort White Florida and extraordinary sidemount/cave divers and instructors. In this episode, they share their passion for cave diving and instructing and their love of dive travel. We talk about their backgrounds, philosophies around teaching sidemount and cave diving, why it is important to streamline stages, deco cylinders and bailout, and about their recent dive travel to Abaco in the Bahamas, Mexico, Little Cayman and Orda Cave in Russia... plus we talk sidemount rebreathers and much more...  Featured: Hidden Worlds - https://www.dive-caves.com/ Sidemount Fundamentals eBook - https://www.sidemountpros.com/store Truk 2020 - https://www.sidemountpros.com/calendar

Marissa Eckert and James Draker are the owners of Hidden Worlds, Fort White Florida and extraordinary sidemount/cave divers and instructors. In this episode, they share their passion for cave diving and instructing and their love of dive travel. We talk about their backgrounds, philosophies around teaching sidemount and cave diving, why it is important to streamline stages, deco cylinders and bailout, and about their recent dive travel to Abaco in the Bahamas, Mexico, Little Cayman and Orda Cave in Russia... plus we talk sidemount rebreathers and much more...  Featured: Hidden Worlds - <a href="https://www.dive-caves.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.dive-caves.com/</a> Sidemount Fundamentals eBook - <a href="https://www.sidemountpros.com/store" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.sidemountpros.com/store</a> Truk 2020 - <a href="https://www.sidemountpros.com/calendar" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.sidemountpros.com/calendar</a>

E034 - Marissa Eckert & James Draker on Sidemount Cave Diving

Edd Sorenson

In this episode sponsored by XDEEP, I speak with cave diving legend, Edd Sorenson. In addition, to his exploration of the caves of the Florida Panhandle, Edd was one of the original members of the International Underwater Cave Rescue and Recovery team. He has been involved in several successful cave rescues and sadly a number of cave recoveries. In particular Edd is renown as having the temperament and skill set to be able to undertake cave recoveries that are at the very limits of what is possible. In this episode we'll learn more about Edd's background in diving, what it takes to make a successful cave rescue, the skill sets that he employs to undertake recoveries that are beyond the scope or ability of other cave rescue teams and then we go into some detail regarding the recent recovery of the two divers who perished in the caves of the Dominican Republic. A word of warning... Edd goes into detail as he describes the recovery. If you have been affected by this loss or the loss of a friend or loved one in similar circumstances, you may wish to skip this section of the podcast which is between 10:15 - 18.15 We also talk about the KISS Sidewinder Rebreather, about Edd's approach to CCR, cave and DPV training and lastly, we discuss the importance of fitness for divers... and much more! Featured in this episode: Sponsor - XDEEP https://www.xdeep.eu www.caveadventurers.com www.kissrebreathers.com

In this episode sponsored by XDEEP, I speak with cave diving legend, Edd Sorenson. In addition, to his exploration of the caves of the Florida Panhandle, Edd was one of the original members of the International Underwater Cave Rescue and Recovery team. He has been involved in several successful cave rescues and sadly a number of cave recoveries. In particular Edd is renown as having the temperament and skill set to be able to undertake cave recoveries that are at the very limits of what is possible. In this episode we'll learn more about Edd's background in diving, what it takes to make a successful cave rescue, the skill sets that he employs to undertake recoveries that are beyond the scope or ability of other cave rescue teams and then we go into some detail regarding the recent recovery of the two divers who perished in the caves of the Dominican Republic. A word of warning... Edd goes into detail as he describes the recovery. If you have been affected by this loss or the loss of a friend or loved one in similar circumstances, you may wish to skip this section of the podcast which is between 10:15 - 18.15 We also talk about the KISS Sidewinder Rebreather, about Edd's approach to CCR, cave and DPV training and lastly, we discuss the importance of fitness for divers... and much more! Featured in this episode: Sponsor - XDEEP <a href="https://www.xdeep.eu/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.xdeep.eu</a> <a href="http://www.caveadventurers.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.caveadventurers.com</a> <a href="http://www.kissrebreathers.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.kissrebreathers.com</a>

E029 - Cave Rescues & Recoveries with Edd Sorenson

Patrick Widmann

In this week's episode kindly sponsored by XDEEP, I am joined by cave explorer and designer of the XDEEP Stealth 2.0, Patrick Widmann. Together we discuss sidemount diving and do a deep dive into this very popular sidemount system. We cover:  Patrick's background, his beginnings in sidemount and cave exploration The explosion in sidemount diving How his relationship with XDEEP began The thinking behind the Stealth 2.0 design Key features of the Stealth 2.0 and why they are important How customer feedback has contributed to continued innovation in the Stealth 2.0 system Diving the Stealth 2.0 with different cylinder types and sizes  and much more.... Featured in this episode: Sponsor - XDEEP https://www.xdeep.eu/ Protec Dive Centres - http://www.protecdiving.com/ If you like the podcast, please share with your friends and consider leaving us a 5-star review.

In this week's episode kindly sponsored by XDEEP, I am joined by cave explorer and designer of the XDEEP Stealth 2.0, Patrick Widmann. Together we discuss sidemount diving and do a deep dive into this very popular sidemount system. We cover: <ul> <li>Patrick's background, his beginnings in sidemount and cave exploration</li> <li>The explosion in sidemount diving</li> <li>How his relationship with XDEEP began</li> <li>The thinking behind the Stealth 2.0 design</li> <li>Key features of the Stealth 2.0 and why they are important</li> <li>How customer feedback has contributed to continued innovation in the Stealth 2.0 system</li> <li>Diving the Stealth 2.0 with different cylinder types and sizes</li> </ul> and much more.... Featured in this episode: Sponsor - XDEEP <a href="https://www.xdeep.eu/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.xdeep.eu/</a> Protec Dive Centres - <a href="http://www.protecdiving.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">http://www.protecdiving.com/</a> If you like the podcast, please share with your friends and consider leaving us a 5-star review.

E012 - XDEEP Stealth 2.0 Deep Dive with Patrick Widmann

In this week's episode sponsored by XDEEP, I share my experiences sidemount diving at Truk Lagoon with Pete Mesley's Lust4Rust. I cover:  History of Truk Lagoon and Operation Hailstone My planning to complete sidemount trimix dives in tropical conditions Using Michur's XDEEP Stealth 2.0 Dual Bladder configuration for managing trim Travelling to Chuuk, Federated States of Micronesia Our base and the dive facilities at Blue Lagoon Resort The wrecks, dive planning, decompression planning and executing our dives My personal favorites of the Truk wrecks Planning for a sidemount group to join the June 2020 trip   and much more.... Featured in this episode: Sponsor: XDEEP - https://www.xdeep.eu/ Pete Mesley's Lust4Rust - https://www.petemesley.com/lust4rust/  If you like the podcast, please share with your friends and consider leaving us a 5-star review.

In this week's episode sponsored by XDEEP, I share my experiences sidemount diving at Truk Lagoon with Pete Mesley's Lust4Rust. I cover: <ul> <li>History of Truk Lagoon and Operation Hailstone</li> <li>My planning to complete sidemount trimix dives in tropical conditions</li> <li>Using Michur's XDEEP Stealth 2.0 Dual Bladder configuration for managing trim</li> <li>Travelling to Chuuk, Federated States of Micronesia</li> <li>Our base and the dive facilities at Blue Lagoon Resort</li> <li>The wrecks, dive planning, decompression planning and executing our dives</li> <li>My personal favorites of the Truk wrecks</li> <li>Planning for a sidemount group to join the June 2020 trip </li> </ul> and much more.... Featured in this episode: Sponsor: XDEEP - <a href="https://www.xdeep.eu/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.xdeep.eu/</a> Pete Mesley's Lust4Rust - <a href="https://www.petemesley.com/lust4rust/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.petemesley.com/lust4rust/</a> If you like the podcast, please share with your friends and consider leaving us a 5-star review.

E017 - Sidemount Diving Truk Lagoon

Phillip Lehman

In this week's episode sponsored by XDEEP, I speak with Phillip Lehman, acclaimed graffiti artist, musician and music producer... but more to the point... amazing cave explorer and sidemount diver :)! We cover:  How Phillip got into sidemount and cave diving  His cave exploration partnership with Patrick Widmann The DRSS and safety issues re untrained divers being guided in the cave zone DRSS exploration projects The importance of practice in building sidemount skills Phillip's equipment including; XDEEP Stealth 2.0, video cameras, housings, lights and editing software Advice for aspiring underwater videographers  and much more.... Featured in this episode: Sponsor: XDEEP - https://www.xdeep.eu/ DRSS - https://www.dr-ss.com/  If you like the podcast, please share with your friends and consider leaving us a 5-star review.

In this week's episode sponsored by XDEEP, I speak with Phillip Lehman, acclaimed graffiti artist, musician and music producer... but more to the point... amazing cave explorer and sidemount diver :)! We cover: <ul> <li>How Phillip got into sidemount and cave diving </li> <li>His cave exploration partnership with Patrick Widmann</li> <li>The DRSS and safety issues re untrained divers being guided in the cave zone</li> <li>DRSS exploration projects</li> <li>The importance of practice in building sidemount skills</li> <li>Phillip's equipment including; XDEEP Stealth 2.0, video cameras, housings, lights and editing software</li> <li>Advice for aspiring underwater videographers</li> </ul> and much more.... Featured in this episode: Sponsor: XDEEP - <a href="https://www.xdeep.eu/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.xdeep.eu/</a> DRSS - <a href="https://www.dr-ss.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.dr-ss.com/</a> If you like the podcast, please share with your friends and consider leaving us a 5-star review.

E016 - Dominican Republic Cave Exploration with Phillip Lehman

Thorsten Waelde

In this week's episode, I interview one of the world's top divers and explorers Thorsten Waelde or "Toddy". Toddy is the owner of Protec Sardinia and the inventor of the "Toddy Style" sidemount systems and a great guy as well.  In this episode Toddy and I go deep into:   his background in diving  about Toddy Style sidemount  diving in beautiful Sardinia, Italy  the exciting T-Reb sidemount rebreather   and much more... Featured in this episode: Protec Sardinia - https://protecsardinia.com/ Sidemount Fundamentals eBook - https://goo.gl/Davqc1

In this week's episode, I interview one of the world's top divers and explorers Thorsten Waelde or "Toddy". Toddy is the owner of Protec Sardinia and the inventor of the "Toddy Style" sidemount systems and a great guy as well. In this episode Toddy and I go deep into: <ul> <li> his background in diving</li> <li> about Toddy Style sidemount</li> <li> diving in beautiful Sardinia, Italy</li> <li> the exciting T-Reb sidemount rebreather </li> </ul> and much more... Featured in this episode: Protec Sardinia - <a href="https://protecsardinia.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://protecsardinia.com/</a> Sidemount Fundamentals eBook - <a href="https://goo.gl/Davqc1" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://goo.gl/Davqc1</a>

E024 - Toddy Style Sidemount with Thorsten Waelde

Natalie Gibb

In this week's episode sponsored by Shearwater Research, I speak with Natalie Gibb, consummate sidemount diver, cave instructor, explorer and co-owner of dive shop "Under the Jungle", Mexico. We cover:  How Nat got into sidemount, cave diving, and cave instructing  Her cave exploration projects in Mexico Building diving skills as you conduct exploration projects Nat's philosophy re sidemount and cave diving training The importance of natural navigation in cave diving Why cave divers should try dry caving Use of AI transmitters for sidemount and technical diving  and much more.... Episode Sponsor: Shearwater Research - https://www.shearwater.com  Featured in this episode:  Under the Jungle - https://www.underthejungle.com Sidemount Fundamentals eBook - https://goo.gl/Davqc1 Truk 2020 Sidemount Group - https://goo.gl/V8Hhrq   If you like the podcast, please share with your friends and consider leaving us a 5-star review.

In this week's episode sponsored by Shearwater Research, I speak with Natalie Gibb, consummate sidemount diver, cave instructor, explorer and co-owner of dive shop "Under the Jungle", Mexico. We cover: <ul> <li>How Nat got into sidemount, cave diving, and cave instructing </li> <li>Her cave exploration projects in Mexico</li> <li>Building diving skills as you conduct exploration projects</li> <li>Nat's philosophy re sidemount and cave diving training</li> <li>The importance of natural navigation in cave diving</li> <li>Why cave divers should try dry caving</li> <li>Use of AI transmitters for sidemount and technical diving</li> </ul> and much more.... Episode Sponsor: Shearwater Research - <a href="https://www.shearwater.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.shearwater.com</a> Featured in this episode: <ul> <li>Under the Jungle - <a href="https://www.underthejungle.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.underthejungle.com</a></li> <li>Sidemount Fundamentals eBook - <a href="https://goo.gl/Davqc1" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://goo.gl/Davqc1</a></li> <li>Truk 2020 Sidemount Group - <a href="https://goo.gl/V8Hhrq" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://goo.gl/V8Hhrq</a> </li> </ul> If you like the podcast, please share with your friends and consider leaving us a 5-star review.

E018- Sidemount & Cave Exploration with Natalie Gibb

In this week's episode sponsored by XDEEP, I speak with Patrick Widmann on the DRSS Madagascar Cave Exploration project. We cover:  How Patrick joined the DRSS His cave exploration partnership with Phillip Lehman How the Madagascar project came about The logistics of exploring in remote locations The hard work that goes unseen Finding a body in the cave Interesting uses for the XDEEP Stealth 2.0 Classic BCD Sidemount CCR  and much more.... Featured in this episode: Sponsor: XDEEP - https://www.xdeep.eu/ Protec Dive Centres - http://www.protecdiving.com/ DRSS - https://www.dr-ss.com/  If you like the podcast, please share with your friends and consider leaving us a 5-star review.

In this week's episode sponsored by XDEEP, I speak with Patrick Widmann on the DRSS Madagascar Cave Exploration project. We cover: <ul> <li>How Patrick joined the DRSS</li> <li>His cave exploration partnership with Phillip Lehman</li> <li>How the Madagascar project came about</li> <li>The logistics of exploring in remote locations</li> <li>The hard work that goes unseen</li> <li>Finding a body in the cave</li> <li>Interesting uses for the XDEEP Stealth 2.0 Classic BCD</li> <li>Sidemount CCR</li> </ul> and much more.... Featured in this episode: Sponsor: XDEEP - <a href="https://www.xdeep.eu/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.xdeep.eu/</a> Protec Dive Centres - <a href="http://www.protecdiving.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">http://www.protecdiving.com/</a> DRSS - <a href="https://www.dr-ss.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.dr-ss.com/</a> If you like the podcast, please share with your friends and consider leaving us a 5-star review.

E013 - Madagascar Cave Exploration with Patrick Widmann

In this episode sponsored by XDEEP, I catch up with Richard "Harry" Harris. A key member of the Thai Cave Rescue, Australian of the Year and cave explorer, Harry is one of the nicest guys I have ever met.  Harry and I discuss, how he got into diving, cave diving and exploration, the connection between anaesthesiology and diving, how the cave exploration group... The "Wet Mules" was formed... Harry shares on his experiences diving to over 220m in Pearse Resurgence, his partnership with Craig Challen, how being named joint Australian of the Year has affected his life, and how he is using this platform to promote outdoor and adventure pursuits to our kids... All this and much more in this episode of Speaking Sidemount. #XDEEP #sidemountdiving #sidemountpros #stevedavis #richardharris #cavediving

In this episode sponsored by XDEEP, I catch up with Richard "Harry" Harris. A key member of the Thai Cave Rescue, Australian of the Year and cave explorer, Harry is one of the nicest guys I have ever met.  Harry and I discuss, how he got into diving, cave diving and exploration, the connection between anaesthesiology and diving, how the cave exploration group... The "Wet Mules" was formed... Harry shares on his experiences diving to over 220m in Pearse Resurgence, his partnership with Craig Challen, how being named joint Australian of the Year has affected his life, and how he is using this platform to promote outdoor and adventure pursuits to our kids... All this and much more in this episode of Speaking Sidemount. #XDEEP #sidemountdiving #sidemountpros #stevedavis #richardharris #cavediving

E037 - Richard "Harry" Harris - Being an Explorer

This episode is very close to my heart!! I had the great pleasure to catch up with Yvonne Press an awesome sidemount and tech diving instructor based in Bali, Indonesia. We had a great time discussing; sidemount for open water dives, what it takes to be a good sidemount diver, how she teaches sidemount, CCR and sidemount CCR, and much more... Featured: https://www.xdeep.eu/ https://www.facebook.com/yvonnepresstechnicaldiving/ https://www.sidemountpros.com/   Join me in Truk 2020 -  https://www.sidemountpros.com/calendar/2020/5/29/truk-lagoon-sidemount-group-june-2020 

This episode is very close to my heart!! I had the great pleasure to catch up with Yvonne Press an awesome sidemount and tech diving instructor based in Bali, Indonesia. We had a great time discussing; sidemount for open water dives, what it takes to be a good sidemount diver, how she teaches sidemount, CCR and sidemount CCR, and much more... Featured: <a href="https://www.xdeep.eu/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.xdeep.eu/</a> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/yvonnepresstechnicaldiving/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/yvonnepresstechnicaldiving/</a> <a href="https://www.sidemountpros.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.sidemountpros.com/</a> Join me in Truk 2020 - <a href="https://www.sidemountpros.com/calendar/2020/5/29/truk-lagoon-sidemount-group-june-2020" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> https://www.sidemountpros.com/calendar/2020/5/29/truk-lagoon-sidemount-group-june-2020</a>

E031 - Yvonne Press on Open Water Sidemount Diving

Becky Kagan Schott

 Finally... in this episode sponsored by XDEEP, I got the chance to meet one of the world's great photographers... Becky Kagan Schott.  We had a great time discussing; how Becky got into diving and photography, about Liquid Productions and their award winning features. We discuss diving the wrecks of the Great Lakes in North America, what it takes to be a great photographer or videographer, some tips from Becky on how to improve your images and then we learn of Becky's use of OC sidemount and her recent transition to sidemount CCR.   Featured:  https://www.xdeep.eu/  http://liquidproductions.com/  https://www.sidemountpros.com/

Finally... in this episode sponsored by XDEEP, I got the chance to meet one of the world's great photographers... Becky Kagan Schott. We had a great time discussing; how Becky got into diving and photography, about Liquid Productions and their award winning features. We discuss diving the wrecks of the Great Lakes in North America, what it takes to be a great photographer or videographer, some tips from Becky on how to improve your images and then we learn of Becky's use of OC sidemount and her recent transition to sidemount CCR. Featured: <a href="https://www.xdeep.eu/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.xdeep.eu/</a> <a href="http://liquidproductions.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">http://liquidproductions.com/</a> <a href="https://www.sidemountpros.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.sidemountpros.com/</a>

E032 - Becky Kagan Schott on Photography & Sidemount CCR

Matteo Varenna

In this episode, I catch up with Matteo Varenna. Matteo is a terrific sidemount diver and instructor and a great guy as well. In this episode we go deep into:  his background in diving and sidemount what is wrong with Sidemount Specialty Instructor training and how this can be fixed why he decided to become a Sidemount Essentials instructor the importance of video feedback in dive courses the problems with social media and forums his XDEEP presentations on set up and fixing issues  and much more... Featured in this episode: Sponsor - XDEEP https://www.xdeep.eu/  Sidemount Essentials Training - https://www.sidemounting.com/in-water-training/ Sidemount Fundamentals eBook - https://goo.gl/Davqc1

In this episode, I catch up with Matteo Varenna. Matteo is a terrific sidemount diver and instructor and a great guy as well. In this episode we go deep into: <ul> <li>his background in diving and sidemount</li> <li>what is wrong with Sidemount Specialty Instructor training and how this can be fixed</li> <li>why he decided to become a Sidemount Essentials instructor</li> <li>the importance of video feedback in dive courses</li> <li>the problems with social media and forums</li> <li>his XDEEP presentations on set up and fixing issues</li> </ul> and much more... Featured in this episode: Sponsor - XDEEP <a href="https://www.xdeep.eu/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.xdeep.eu/</a> Sidemount Essentials Training - <a href="https://www.sidemounting.com/in-water-training/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.sidemounting.com/in-water-training/</a> Sidemount Fundamentals eBook - <a href="https://goo.gl/Davqc1" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://goo.gl/Davqc1</a>

E027 - Sidemount Essentials with Matteo Varenna

Ryan Kaczkowski

Every now and again a dive image captures your attention and you say "WTF"!! One from a few months back was the expedition into Cocklebiddy Cave, Western Australia by a team of three divers, Stephen Fordyce, Liz Rogers and Ryan Kaczkowski. The pic was taken by Liz and features Ryan and Stephen towing a literal mountain of equipment into Cocklebiddy... I thought... That is seriously badass... So when Brendan Moore suggested that I reach out to Ryan I was straight on it. Ryan lives in Mt Gambier, South Australia... cave country for that part of the world and cave exploration is his passion. Ryan is a super cool person and has some brilliant insights to share on sidemount diving, his cave exploration projects and what it takes to dive in these amazing places. and much more.... Look out for:  Sidemount Fundamentals eBook - https://goo.gl/Davqc1 Truk 2020 Sidemount Group - https://goo.gl/V8Hhrq   If you like the podcast, please share with your friends and consider leaving us a 5-star review.

Every now and again a dive image captures your attention and you say "WTF"!! One from a few months back was the expedition into Cocklebiddy Cave, Western Australia by a team of three divers, Stephen Fordyce, Liz Rogers and Ryan Kaczkowski. The pic was taken by Liz and features Ryan and Stephen towing a literal mountain of equipment into Cocklebiddy... I thought... That is seriously badass... So when Brendan Moore suggested that I reach out to Ryan I was straight on it. Ryan lives in Mt Gambier, South Australia... cave country for that part of the world and cave exploration is his passion. Ryan is a super cool person and has some brilliant insights to share on sidemount diving, his cave exploration projects and what it takes to dive in these amazing places. and much more.... Look out for: <ul> <li>Sidemount Fundamentals eBook - <a href="https://goo.gl/Davqc1" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://goo.gl/Davqc1</a></li> <li>Truk 2020 Sidemount Group - <a href="https://goo.gl/V8Hhrq" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://goo.gl/V8Hhrq</a> </li> </ul> If you like the podcast, please share with your friends and consider leaving us a 5-star review.

E023 - Australian Cave Exploration with Ryan Kaczkowski

Dharshana Jayawardena

In this episode sponsored by XDEEP, I catch up with Dharshana Jayawardena or DJ. DJ is a pioneering underwater explorer in Sri Lanka. In addition to being an author, he is the founder of DiveSriLanka.com and is also a field editor for Asian Diver magazine. DJ has identified the origins of several mystery wrecks; among them the World War I SS Worcestershire and a World War II Catalina patrol bomber. Recently he has ventured into cave diving and discovered Sri Lanka’s first major underwater cave system among its scenic mountains.  In this episode DJ and I talk about his background in diving and sidemount, his exploration of Sri Lanka's many shipwrecks, his recent cave exploration project in the Sri Lankan mountains and his upcoming presentation on shipwreck exploration at ADEX Singapore, and much more... Featured in this episode: Sponsor - XDEEP https://www.xdeep.eu/  https://www.divesrilanka.com/ The Canterbury Wreck - A Diver's Guide - www.sidemountpros.com/store/the-canterbury-wreck-a-divers-guide Sidemount Pros YouTube Channel - www.youtube.com/sidemountpros

In this episode sponsored by XDEEP, I catch up with Dharshana Jayawardena or DJ. DJ is a pioneering underwater explorer in Sri Lanka. In addition to being an author, he is the founder of <a href="http://DiveSriLanka.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">DiveSriLanka.com</a> and is also a field editor for Asian Diver magazine. DJ has identified the origins of several mystery wrecks; among them the World War I SS Worcestershire and a World War II Catalina patrol bomber. Recently he has ventured into cave diving and discovered Sri Lanka’s first major underwater cave system among its scenic mountains. In this episode DJ and I talk about his background in diving and sidemount, his exploration of Sri Lanka's many shipwrecks, his recent cave exploration project in the Sri Lankan mountains and his upcoming presentation on shipwreck exploration at ADEX Singapore, and much more... Featured in this episode: Sponsor - XDEEP <a href="https://www.xdeep.eu/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.xdeep.eu/</a> <a href="https://www.divesrilanka.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.divesrilanka.com/</a> The Canterbury Wreck - A Diver's Guide - <a href="http://www.sidemountpros.com/store/the-canterbury-wreck-a-divers-guide" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.sidemountpros.com/store/the-canterbury-wreck-a-divers-guide</a> Sidemount Pros YouTube Channel - <a href="https://www.youtube.com/sidemountpros" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.youtube.com/sidemountpros</a>

E028 - Wrecks & Caves of Sri Lanka with Dharshana Jayawardena

The Best Multi-Part Documentaries, with documentaries on Obama, Federer vs Nadal, the making of Star Wars, Netflix vs Blockbuster and more. Add episodes you're interested into your queue below!

OwlTail

"It all started around 1997, with a guy named Marc Randolph and his mathematician friend Reed Hastings. Randolph and Hastings knew they’d have to take on Blockbuster, but what they didn’t anticipate was that their business model would take on network television and eventually change the entire movie industry.
This was an 8-year total war that left innumerable casualties in its wake: thousands of hollowed out buildings and economic losses in the billions."

An 8-part series on the brutal business battle between Netflix and Blockbuster, and later HBO.

This is Episode 1 of an 8-part series on the brutal business battle between Netflix and Blockbuster, and later HBO.It all started around 1997, with a guy named Marc Randolph and his mathematician friend Reed Hastings. Randolph and Hastings knew they’d have to take on Blockbuster, but what they didn’t anticipate was that their business model would take on network television and eventually change the entire movie industry.This was an 8-year total war that left innumerable casualties in its wake: thousands of hollowed out buildings and economic losses in the billions.Support us by supporting our sponsors!

Business Wars

This is Episode 1 of an 8-part series on the brutal business battle between Netflix and Blockbuster, and later HBO.It all started around 1997, with a guy named Marc Randolph and his mathematician friend Reed Hastings. Randolph and Hastings knew they’d have to take on Blockbuster, but what they didn’t anticipate was that their business model would take on network television and eventually change the entire movie industry.This was an 8-year total war that left innumerable casualties in its wake: thousands of hollowed out buildings and economic losses in the billions. Support us by supporting our sponsors!

Netflix vs Blockbuster - Sudden Death | 1

You don't have to like tennis to like this. There is so much to learn from how this rivalry made each player better. This series explores the unique tennis rivalry between Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal-- two very different players, both exceptional, in pursuit of perfection. Swiss-born Roger Federer was seemingly born with a racquet in his hand and at a young age he quickly masters the game, but what he needs to reach the top is to learn how to master his emotions. Meanwhile, Spaniard Rafael Nadal learns the game under the tutelage of his uncle Toni on the clay courts of Mallorca, where the decision to make him a left-handed player separates him early from his competition.

A 7 part series on Federer and Nadal

In this series we explore the unique tennis rivalry between Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal-- two very different players, both exceptional, in pursuit of perfection. Swiss-born Roger Federer was seemingly born with a racquet in his hand and at a young age he quickly masters the game, but what he needs to reach the top is to learn how to master his emotions. Meanwhile, Spaniard Rafael Nadal learns the game under the tutelage of his uncle Toni on the clay courts of Mallorca, where the decision to make him a left-handed player separates him early from his competition. Support us by supporting our sponsors!

Sports Wars

In this series we explore the unique tennis rivalry between Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal-- two very different players, both exceptional, in pursuit of perfection. Swiss-born Roger Federer was seemingly born with a racquet in his hand and at a young age he quickly masters the game, but what he needs to reach the top is to learn how to master his emotions. Meanwhile, Spaniard Rafael Nadal learns the game under the tutelage of his uncle Toni on the clay courts of Mallorca, where the decision to make him a left-handed player separates him early from his competition.  Support us by supporting our sponsors!

Federer vs Nadal - The Hothead | 1

Best Multi-Part Documentaries

What is this?
1 quote, 3 ideas & 1 question from a carefully curated podcast episode.
Every Monday & Wednesday.

Want a 3rd insight and episode every week? Email me at curation@owltail.com.

How our mind explains things:[topic-start]
“The way that the mind works, very frequently, is that we start from a decision, or we start from a belief, and then the stories that explain it come to our mind. Conclusions come first, and rationalizations come later.”[topic-end]
How we come to believe things:[topic-start]
"The real cause of your belief in a political position, the real causes are rooted in your personal history. They’re rooted in who are the people that you trusted and what they seemed to believe in, and it has very little to do with the reasons that come to your mind, why your position is correct and the position of the other side is nonsensical."[topic-end]
Who is Daniel Kahneman:[topic-start]
Nobel prize winning psychologist and economist who helped created the field of behavioural economics.

The Nobel Prize-winning psychologist on why we think and act the way we do — and why facts matter less than we think in forming our beliefs.
With his book Thinking, Fast and Slow, Daniel Kahneman emerged as one of the most intriguing voices on the complexity of human thought and behavior. He is a psychologist who won the Nobel Prize in economics for helping to create the field of behavioral economics — and is a self-described “constant worrier.” It’s fun, helpful, and more than a little unnerving to apply his insights into why we think and act the way we do in this moment of social and political tumult.
Find the transcript for this show at onbeing.org.

On Being with Krista Tippett

Daniel Kahneman — Why We Contradict Ourselves and Confound Each Other

Real scenarios of a hospital during a war:[topic-start]
“... we were hand squeezing his ventilator as we ran out of oxygen" and when we finally found the physician to get more oxygen, he said "We don't have any oxygen left, you're going to have to let him go"[topic-end]
Who is Sheri Fink:[topic-start]
An investigative journalist who won the Pulitzer Prize for her coverage of Memorial Hospital (the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina).

Sheri Fink on the tragedy of being forced to choose who's life to save

When people are dying and you can only save some, how do you choose? Maybe you save the youngest. Or the sickest. Maybe you even just put all the names in a hat and pick at random. Would your answer change if a sick person was standing right in front of you? In this episode, we follow New York Times reporter Sheri Fink as she searches for the answer. In a warzone, a hurricane, a church basement, and an earthquake, the question remains the same. What happens, what should happen, when humans are forced to play god? Produced by Simon Adler and Annie McEwen. Reported by Sheri Fink.  In the book that inspired this episode you can find more about what transpired at Memorial Hospital during Hurricane Katrina, Sheri Fink’s exhaustively reported Five Days at Memorial You can find more about the work going on in Maryland at: www.nytimes.com/triage Very special thanks to Lilly Sullivan.  Special thanks also to: Pat Walters and Jim McCutcheon and Todd Menesses from WWL in New Orleans, the researchers for the allocation of scarce resources project in Maryland - Dr. Lee Daugherty Biddison from Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Howie Gwon from the Johns Hopkins Medicine Office of Emergency Management, Alan Regenberg of the Berman Institute of Bioethics and Dr. Eric Toner of the UPMC Center for Health Security.  Support Radiolab by becoming a member today at Radiolab.org/donate.    

Radiolab

When people are dying and you can only save some, how do you choose? Maybe you save the youngest. Or the sickest. Maybe you even just put all the names in a hat and pick at random. Would your answer change if a sick person was standing right in front of you? In this episode, we follow New York Times reporter Sheri Fink as she searches for the answer. In a warzone, a hurricane, a church basement, and an earthquake, the question remains the same. What happens, what should happen, when humans are forced to play god? Produced by Simon Adler and Annie McEwen. Reported by Sheri Fink.  In the book that inspired this episode you can find more about what transpired at Memorial Hospital during Hurricane Katrina, <a href="http://www.sherifink.net" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Sheri Fink’s</a> exhaustively reported <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Five-Days-Memorial-Storm-Ravaged-Hospital/dp/0307718972/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1471783956&amp;sr=8-1&amp;keywords=five+days+at+memorial" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Five Days at Memorial</a> You can find more about the work going on in Maryland at: <a href="http://www.nytimes.com/triage" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.nytimes.com/triage</a> Very special thanks to Lilly Sullivan.  Special thanks also to: Pat Walters and Jim McCutcheon and Todd Menesses from WWL in New Orleans, the researchers for the allocation of scarce resources project in Maryland - Dr. Lee Daugherty Biddison from Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Howie Gwon from the Johns Hopkins Medicine Office of Emergency Management, Alan Regenberg of the Berman Institute of Bioethics and Dr. Eric Toner of the UPMC Center for Health Security. Support Radiolab by becoming a member today at <a href="https://pledge3.wnyc.org/donate/radiolab-it/onestep/?utm_source=wnyc&amp;utm_medium=radiolab-redirect&amp;utm_campaign=pledge&amp;utm_content=show-notes" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Radiolab.org/donate</a>.

Speaking Sidemount

Weekly hand curated podcast episodes for learning