Sun, 08 Feb 2026 03:33:02 +0000 Sun, 08 Feb 2026 03:33:02 +0000 Libsyn RSSgen 1.0 http://poddiver.libsyn.com en http://poddiver.libsyn.com https://static.libsyn.com/p/assets/6/c/8/0/6c80066ee9479c1916c3140a3186d450/pod_diver_radio_3000x3000.png Jospeh Cocozza: PADI MSDT no Joseph Cocozza jcocozza@gmail.com serial 2d95fd20-b8d3-11f0-8662-f997c1357921 no The podcast for serious scuba divers. We cover, TRIMIX, NITROX, REBREATHER Cave Diving, Shipwreck diving, DPV, Hogarthian, Military scuba, free-diving, hyperbaric science. NAVY Master Diver Mindset: with Master Chief Rick Bettua USN Sun, 08 Feb 2026 03:27:00 +0000 42:19 false 14 238 full Pod Diver Center LLC Retired Master Chief Petty Officer and U.S. Navy Master Diver Rick Bettua joins Joe Cocozza on Pod Diver TV for a powerful, story-driven interview about what it takes to become a Navy Diver and the mindset that keeps you alive when everything goes sideways. Rick shares how a Super Bowl halftime "Navy Divers" ad sparked his dream, how he literally got himself to dive school, and why Navy diving is as much leadership and mental toughness as it is underwater skill. We cover Navy Diver training, mission realities (ships husbandry, submarines, salvage, security operations), and the hard lessons that forged Rick's career plus the principles he wants every diver to remember: STOP • THINK • ACT and Never Ever Quit. If you're a scuba diver, tech diver, or current/former military, this episode is packed with motivation, history, and real-world dive culture. Featured: Rick Bettua Author of Breathe: A Survivor's Tale (Navy Master Diver stories + the events that led him to write the book) Order a copy of Rick's book at: https://www.amazon.com/Breathe-Master-Divers-Survival-Tales/dp/1637898215 When scuba diving in North Florida come stay with us at the Pod Diver Lodge: www.poddiverlodge.com Chapters: 01:34 Introduction to Rick's Journey 03:20 The Inspiration to become a Navy Diver 04:26 Joining the US Navy at 17 05:35 First Ship… not a diver yet. 07:29 A Deal is a Deal ! 10:00 The Dream Begins. Attending Second Class Diver School 13:57 Swimming against the Frogmen 16:28 First Assignment as a Navy Diver 21:03 Duties of a US Navy Diver 23:25 The dangers of diving on Submarines 27:34 Making Master Chief Petty Officer 29:30 What does it take to be a USN MASTER DIVER 33:00 LEADERSHIP: Diving is the FUN part. 38:09 Surviving a SHARK ATTACK. (Warning Graphic Content) Keywords / SEO: U.S. Navy Diver, Navy Master Diver, Technical Diving, Navy diving, Navy diver training, ND pipeline, dive school, ships husbandry, submarine diving hazards, salvage diving, shark attack, military diving, leadership, mental toughness, stop tRetired Master Chief Petty Officer and U.S. Navy Master Diver Rick Bettua joins Joe Cocozza on Pod Diver TV for a powerful, story-driven interview about what it takes to become a Navy Diver and the mindset that keeps you alive when everything goes sideways. Rick shares how a Super Bowl halftime "Navy Divers" ad sparked his dream, how he literally got himself to dive school, and why Navy diving is as much leadership and mental toughness as it is underwater skill. We cover Navy Diver training, mission realities (ships husbandry, submarines, salvage, security operations), and the hard lessons that forged Rick's career plus the principles he wants every diver to remember: STOP • THINK • ACT and Never Ever Quit. If you're a scuba diver, tech diver, or current/former military, this episode is packed with motivation, history, and real-world dive culture. Featured: Rick Bettua Author of Breathe: A Survivor's Tale (Navy Master Diver stories + the events that led him to write the book) Order a copy of Rick's book at: https://www.amazon.com/Breathe-Master-Divers-Survival-Tales/dp/1637898215 When scuba diving in North Florida come stay with us at the Pod Diver Lodge: www.poddiverlodge.com Chapters: 01:34 Introduction to Rick's Journey 03:20 The Inspiration to become a Navy Diver 04:26 Joining the US Navy at 17 05:35 First Ship… not a diver yet. 07:29 A Deal is a Deal ! 10:00 The Dream Begins. Attending Second Class Diver School 13:57 Swimming against the Frogmen 16:28 First Assignment as a Navy Diver 21:03 Duties of a US Navy Diver 23:25 The dangers of diving on Submarines 27:34 Making Master Chief Petty Officer 29:30 What does it take to be a USN MASTER DIVER 33:00 LEADERSHIP: Diving is the FUN part. 38:09 Surviving a SHARK ATTACK. (Warning Graphic Content) Keywords / SEO: U.S. Navy Diver, Navy Master Diver, Technical Diving, Navy diving, Navy diver training, ND pipeline, dive school, ships husbandry, submarine diving hazards, salvage diving, shark attack, military diving, leadership, mental toughness, stop t Saturation Diving: Life at 600 feet down. Good pay but the toilets can kill you. Thu, 22 Jan 2026 15:18:00 +0000 15:18 false 14 237 full Using the toilet can kill you… at least if you're living for weeks inside a saturation chamber. In this Pod Diver TV episode, Joe Cocozza sits down in Lisbon, Portugal with former Portuguese Marine and commercial saturation diver João Rainho to unpack what life is really like as a sat diver. João walks us through his path from spearfishing Marine to IMCA-certified commercial diver, North Sea contractor and finally saturation diver working worldwide. He explains how sat systems work, why divers spend 28+ days pressurized instead of bounce diving, and how an entire vessel—from cooks to life-support techs—exists to keep a handful of divers alive around the clock. João breaks down the pay and danger myths around saturation diving: which sectors actually pay well (North Sea, Norwegian, Dutch, UK), where safety slides (Gulf of Mexico, Persian Gulf, parts of Africa), and why some new divers quit after a single sat. He talks candidly about long hitches away from family, the psychological strain of living in a steel tube, and the strange realities of everyday life under pressure—including how flushing the toilet the wrong way can be fatal. We also hear about his dream expedition: crossing the Atlantic from Lisbon to New York underwater in saturation mode. If you're curious about commercial diving, offshore oil and windfarm work, deep decompression, or what sat life is really like beyond the movies, this interview is for you. To watch video goto: https://www.youtube.com/@poddiverUsing the toilet can kill you… at least if you're living for weeks inside a saturation chamber. In this Pod Diver TV episode, Joe Cocozza sits down in Lisbon, Portugal with former Portuguese Marine and commercial saturation diver João Rainho to unpack what life is really like as a sat diver. João walks us through his path from spearfishing Marine to IMCA-certified commercial diver, North Sea contractor and finally saturation diver working worldwide. He explains how sat systems work, why divers spend 28+ days pressurized instead of bounce diving, and how an entire vessel—from cooks to life-support techs—exists to keep a handful of divers alive around the clock. João breaks down the pay and danger myths around saturation diving: which sectors actually pay well (North Sea, Norwegian, Dutch, UK), where safety slides (Gulf of Mexico, Persian Gulf, parts of Africa), and why some new divers quit after a single sat. He talks candidly about long hitches away from family, the psychological strain of living in a steel tube, and the strange realities of everyday life under pressure—including how flushing the toilet the wrong way can be fatal. We also hear about his dream expedition: crossing the Atlantic from Lisbon to New York underwater in saturation mode. If you're curious about commercial diving, offshore oil and windfarm work, deep decompression, or what sat life is really like beyond the movies, this interview is for you. To watch video goto: https://www.youtube.com/@poddiver Boost Your Scuba Video: Pro Lighting Tips from Keldan + Ultralight (DEMA Show) Mon, 22 Dec 2025 00:54:00 +0000 10:48 false 14 236 full Joseph Cocozza Join me on the show floor at DEMA for two rapid-fire interviews on underwater lighting for videography. We talk beam quality, color accuracy, CRI/TLCI, wide vs. spot beams, diffusion, battery management, burn times, mounting, and how to build a travel-friendly rig that still looks cinematic. First up is Keldan on color science, filters, and matching ambient light; then Ultralight walks through arms, clamps, and buoyancy to position lights precisely (and keep your rig neutral). If you shoot wrecks, reefs, or macro, this is a compact masterclass in getting better results underwater. Gear & topics mentioned Underwater video lights, high-CRI LEDs, color filters, domes/diffusers, arms & clamps, buoyancy floats, cable vs. onboard power, action cam vs. mirrorless rigs. 👍 If this helped, please Like, Subscribe, and drop your favorite lighting tip in the comments. Chapters 00:00 – Intro 00:24 – Keldan Interview 05:26 – Ultralight Interview Hashtags / SEO tags #DEMA #UnderwaterVideo #ScubaDiving #UnderwaterLighting #Keldan #Ultralight #Videography #WreckDiving #MacroVideo #CinematicDiving #CRI #TLCI #Backscatter #DiveGearJoin me on the show floor at DEMA for two rapid-fire interviews on underwater lighting for videography. We talk beam quality, color accuracy, CRI/TLCI, wide vs. spot beams, diffusion, battery management, burn times, mounting, and how to build a travel-friendly rig that still looks cinematic. First up is Keldan on color science, filters, and matching ambient light; then Ultralight walks through arms, clamps, and buoyancy to position lights precisely (and keep your rig neutral). If you shoot wrecks, reefs, or macro, this is a compact masterclass in getting better results underwater. Gear & topics mentioned Underwater video lights, high-CRI LEDs, color filters, domes/diffusers, arms & clamps, buoyancy floats, cable vs. onboard power, action cam vs. mirrorless rigs. 👍 If this helped, please Like, Subscribe, and drop your favorite lighting tip in the comments. Chapters 00:00 – Intro 00:24 – Keldan Interview 05:26 – Ultralight Interview Hashtags / SEO tags #DEMA #UnderwaterVideo #ScubaDiving #UnderwaterLighting #Keldan #Ultralight #Videography #WreckDiving #MacroVideo #CinematicDiving #CRI #TLCI #Backscatter #DiveGear Bahamas Scuba Therapy for PTSD at Dean's Blue Hole Tue, 16 Dec 2025 15:22:00 +0000 09:48 false 14 235 full Joseph Cocozza MSDT In this special episode, host Joe Cocozza sits down with veteran cave explorer and former Navy diver Brian Kakuk to talk about a remarkable PTSD program based at Dean's Blue Hole on Long Island in the Bahamas. The nonprofit, founded by Brian's friend Kevin James, is called PTSD – Progress Through Scuba Diving, and it uses guided scuba dives as a powerful tool to help veterans and other trauma survivors work through PTSD. Brian explains how a week of simple, supported dives in the calm, deep waters of Dean's Blue Hole — combined with daily check-ins and recorded interviews — has led many participants from anxiety, insomnia, and even suicidal thoughts to feeling calmer, more present, and genuinely hopeful again. We also touch on why the underwater environment can be therapeutic, how pressure and weightlessness may affect the brain, and why the program now urgently needs sponsors, donors, and word-of-mouth support to bring more veterans to the Bahamas.In this special episode, host Joe Cocozza sits down with veteran cave explorer and former Navy diver Brian Kakuk to talk about a remarkable PTSD program based at Dean's Blue Hole on Long Island in the Bahamas. The nonprofit, founded by Brian's friend Kevin James, is called PTSD – Progress Through Scuba Diving, and it uses guided scuba dives as a powerful tool to help veterans and other trauma survivors work through PTSD. Brian explains how a week of simple, supported dives in the calm, deep waters of Dean's Blue Hole — combined with daily check-ins and recorded interviews — has led many participants from anxiety, insomnia, and even suicidal thoughts to feeling calmer, more present, and genuinely hopeful again. We also touch on why the underwater environment can be therapeutic, how pressure and weightlessness may affect the brain, and why the program now urgently needs sponsors, donors, and word-of-mouth support to bring more veterans to the Bahamas. SS United States: DEMA Presentation by Alex Fogg Thu, 04 Dec 2025 02:40:04 +0000 38:29 false 14 234 full Joseph Cocozza Episode 234 of PDR 3.0: POD DIVER RADIO, host Joe Cocozza takes you to the show floor at DEMA in Orlando for a live presentation by Alex Fogg, Chief of the Okaloosa County Natural Resources team. Alex walks us through how Destin–Fort Walton Beach, Florida has turned decommissioned vessels into a world-class artificial reef program—and why their newest project, sinking the legendary SS United States, is about to create the largest artificial reef in the world. You'll hear the full story arc of the SS United States: from record-breaking transatlantic ocean liner, to asbestos-ridden "ghost ship" tied up in Philadelphia, to a carefully remediated, 1,000-foot artificial reef planned for ~180 feet of water in the Florida Panhandle. Alex breaks down the environmental cleanup, Coast Guard and EPA approvals, and $10.1M project budget, plus the nerve-wracking tow under the Walt Whitman Bridge and the final site selection about 21 miles offshore of Destin–Fort Walton Beach. Along the way, you'll also learn how Okaloosa County has worked with the U.S. military, ship owners, and mapping experts to create reef sites like the Mark Countess and Spirit of Norfolk, pioneered 3D photogrammetry for dive planning, and laid the groundwork for long-term research and dive safety on the SS United States—including partnerships with Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution, LSU, and efforts to improve hyperbaric chamber access for Gulf divers. In this episode you'll hear about: How Destin–Fort Walton Beach built a modern artificial reef program using retired vessels and military "target" ships The history, specs, and Cold War role of the SS United States and why she still holds the transatlantic speed record The remediation checklist: fuel tanks, PCBs, wiring, and why prior work in Turkey/Ukraine saved millions of dollars Stability tests, hull inspections, bitts analysis, and the Coast Guard's "Captain of the Port" requirements before the tow How the team chose the final deployment site on clean sand, away from natural reefs and live military test ranges Plans for a land-based museum using the funnels, radar mast, and recovered artifacts—and "pop-up" SS United States exhibits around the region Long-term monitoring of the wreck, fish tagging, and what this project means for dive tourism and local economics If you're a wreck diver, tech diver, Florida Panhandle regular, or just a maritime history nerd, this episode is a deep dive into what it really takes to turn a legendary ship into a safe, exciting dive site. inks & Resources (add to your Libsyn show notes) Pod Diver Radio – home & archives: https://www.poddiver.org/ Pod Diver Radio PDR 3.0 on Libsyn: https://poddiver.libsyn.com/ PodDiver Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/pdr-3-0-pod-diver-radio/id270165444 Apple Podcasts Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2k8DNUwVPwinXUzODaMASe Spotify Pod Diver TV (YouTube): https://www.youtube.com/@poddiver YouTube Pod Diver Lodge – Cave-country Airbnb for divers: https://www.poddiverlodge.com/Episode 234 of PDR 3.0: POD DIVER RADIO, host Joe Cocozza takes you to the show floor at DEMA in Orlando for a live presentation by Alex Fogg, Chief of the Okaloosa County Natural Resources team. Alex walks us through how Destin–Fort Walton Beach, Florida has turned decommissioned vessels into a world-class artificial reef program—and why their newest project, sinking the legendary SS United States, is about to create the largest artificial reef in the world. You'll hear the full story arc of the SS United States: from record-breaking transatlantic ocean liner, to asbestos-ridden "ghost ship" tied up in Philadelphia, to a carefully remediated, 1,000-foot artificial reef planned for ~180 feet of water in the Florida Panhandle. Alex breaks down the environmental cleanup, Coast Guard and EPA approvals, and $10.1M project budget, plus the nerve-wracking tow under the Walt Whitman Bridge and the final site selection about 21 miles offshore of Destin–Fort Walton Beach. Along the way, you'll also learn how Okaloosa County has worked with the U.S. military, ship owners, and mapping experts to create reef sites like the Mark Countess and Spirit of Norfolk, pioneered 3D photogrammetry for dive planning, and laid the groundwork for long-term research and dive safety on the SS United States—including partnerships with Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution, LSU, and efforts to improve hyperbaric chamber access for Gulf divers. In this episode you'll hear about: How Destin–Fort Walton Beach built a modern artificial reef program using retired vessels and military "target" ships The history, specs, and Cold War role of the SS United States and why she still holds the transatlantic speed record The remediation checklist: fuel tanks, PCBs, wiring, and why prior work in Turkey/Ukraine saved millions of dollars Stability tests, hull inspections, bitts analysis, and the Coast Guard's "Captain of the Port" requirements before the tow How the team chose the final deployment site on clean sand, away from natural reefs and live military test ranges Plans for a land-based museum using the funnels, radar mast, and recovered artifacts—and "pop-up" SS United States exhibits around the region Long-term monitoring of the wreck, fish tagging, and what this project means for dive tourism and local economics If you're a wreck diver, tech diver, Florida Panhandle regular, or just a maritime history nerd, this episode is a deep dive into what it really takes to turn a legendary ship into a safe, exciting dive site. inks & Resources (add to your Libsyn show notes) Pod Diver Radio – home & archives: https://www.poddiver.org/ Pod Diver Radio PDR 3.0 on Libsyn: https://poddiver.libsyn.com/ PodDiver Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/pdr-3-0-pod-diver-radio/id270165444 Apple Podcasts Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2k8DNUwVPwinXUzODaMASe Spotify Pod Diver TV (YouTube): https://www.youtube.com/@poddiver YouTube Pod Diver Lodge – Cave-country Airbnb for divers: https://www.poddiverlodge.com/ The Battle of Midway: PBY Aviator Interviews Tue, 13 Aug 2024 01:31:00 +0000 43:42 false 13 232 full JOSEPH COCOZZA The Battle of Midway: PBY Aviator Interviews Interviews were conducted with LtCmdr Lee McLeary USNR and LtCmdr Bill Cullen USNR, who served as pilot-navigators onboard PBYs Flying Boats during the Battle of Midway. These interviews took place in 1999 on Midway Island, during a reunion of Battle of Midway veterans. Ensign Lee McLeary, who was 21 at the time, shared the harrowing experience of his PBY being shot down, resulting in the loss of five crew members. After the crash, Lee and four other crew members survived for 2.5 days in a life raft before being rescued by the PBY navigated by Ensign Bill Cullen. #usnavy #battleofmidway #usmc #PBY #scubadiving #history #midwayisland #ww2 #usn #navalaviationThe Battle of Midway: PBY Aviator Interviews Interviews were conducted with LtCmdr Lee McLeary USNR and LtCmdr Bill Cullen USNR, who served as pilot-navigators onboard PBYs Flying Boats during the Battle of Midway. These interviews took place in 1999 on Midway Island, during a reunion of Battle of Midway veterans. Ensign Lee McLeary, who was 21 at the time, shared the harrowing experience of his PBY being shot down, resulting in the loss of five crew members. After the crash, Lee and four other crew members survived for 2.5 days in a life raft before being rescued by the PBY navigated by Ensign Bill Cullen. #usnavy #battleofmidway #usmc #PBY #scubadiving #history #midwayisland #ww2 #usn #navalaviation Battle of Midway: Cmdr Dick Best USN Tue, 30 Jul 2024 17:40:00 +0000 18:04 false 13 231 full JOSEPH COCOZZA BATTLE OF MIDWAY: June 4, 1942. The Battle of Midway was the seminal naval battle in the Pacific Theater of World War II. It was a battle between US Navy and Japanese Aircraft Carriers for control on the Midway Atoll 1100 miles west of Hawaii. In June of 1999, I was on the island for a reunion of battle veterans. I got to interview Cmdr Dick Best. Cmdr Best was a Dive Bomber pilot who sank two of the Japanese Aircraft Carriers.BATTLE OF MIDWAY: June 4, 1942. The Battle of Midway was the seminal naval battle in the Pacific Theater of World War II. It was a battle between US Navy and Japanese Aircraft Carriers for control on the Midway Atoll 1100 miles west of Hawaii. In June of 1999, I was on the island for a reunion of battle veterans. I got to interview Cmdr Dick Best. Cmdr Best was a Dive Bomber pilot who sank two of the Japanese Aircraft Carriers. The RMS Republic: Shipwreck of GOLD Sun, 26 Sep 2021 23:28:48 +0000 56:01 false 13 229 full JOSEPH COCOZZA msdt The RMS Republic: The Billion dollar Shipwreck of GOLD The Backstory: The RMS Republic was a White Star Line steam-powered ocean liner built in 1903. In early morning of 23 January 1909, while sailing from New York City to Gibraltar, the Republic was in a collision with SS Florida in 1909 in which she sank in 270 feet of water aprox 70 miles off of Martha's Vineyard. At the time there where multiple reports that she was carrying gold and mixed coin worth $250,000 (in 1909 dollars) to be used as payroll for the US Navy's Great White Fleet. In addition to the US Navy coin-monies shipment, various sources reported on a much larger cargo, $3,000,000 in US gold Double Eagles. Among these, The Washington Post reported, "Three million dollars in gold coins lies in the rotting hulk of the White Star liner Republic, lost off Nantucket in January, 1909. Today, those coins would be worth a Billion Dollars. Captain Martin Bayerle discovered the wreck of the RMS Republic in 1981 and in 1987 he launched a salvage effort. I was the video engineer on the documentary crew of that expedition. The expedition was successful in targeting and excavating their target area, but failed to locate the gold, however. " A perfect landing at the wrong airport…" With new information all these years later, Captain Martin Bayerle finally thinks he knows where the gold is. With its current value, that cargo would be worth over a Billion Dollars. This is a story of shipwreck diving, history, international politics and a life long quest for treasure. In the summer of 2022, Captain Martin Bayerle returns to the site of the RMS Republic and we will be there with him.The RMS Republic: The Billion dollar Shipwreck of GOLD The Backstory: The RMS Republic was a White Star Line steam-powered ocean liner built in 1903. In early morning of 23 January 1909, while sailing from New York City to Gibraltar, the Republic was in a collision with SS Florida in 1909 in which she sank in 270 feet of water aprox 70 miles off of Martha's Vineyard. At the time there where multiple reports that she was carrying gold and mixed coin worth $250,000 (in 1909 dollars) to be used as payroll for the US Navy's Great White Fleet. In addition to the US Navy coin-monies shipment, various sources reported on a much larger cargo, $3,000,000 in US gold Double Eagles. Among these, The Washington Post reported, "Three million dollars in gold coins lies in the rotting hulk of the White Star liner Republic, lost off Nantucket in January, 1909. Today, those coins would be worth a Billion Dollars. Captain Martin Bayerle discovered the wreck of the RMS Republic in 1981 and in 1987 he launched a salvage effort. I was the video engineer on the documentary crew of that expedition. The expedition was successful in targeting and excavating their target area, but failed to locate the gold, however. " A perfect landing at the wrong airport…" With new information all these years later, Captain Martin Bayerle finally thinks he knows where the gold is. With its current value, that cargo would be worth over a Billion Dollars. This is a story of shipwreck diving, history, international politics and a life long quest for treasure. In the summer of 2022, Captain Martin Bayerle returns to the site of the RMS Republic and we will be there with him. Gas, Depth & Breath: Kirk Krack Explains Technical Freediving Sat, 11 Sep 2021 22:33:43 +0000 35:23 false 13 228 full Joseph Cocozza From Truk to Pandora: Kirk Krack on Tech Freediving & Avatar A sit down with Performance Freediving International founder Kirk Krack to unpack the emerging discipline of technical freediving. Kirk explains how PFI's partnership with TDI/SDI fits into the broader "all things diving" ecosystem, then dives deep into what truly separates a snorkeler, recreational freediver, spearfisher, competitive freediver, and a technical freediver. We get into the hard physics and physiology: using nitrox and high-O₂ mixes on the surface to reduce decompression stress, accelerate surface intervals, extend bottom time, and build safer safety-diver protocols—while still managing the very real risks of oxygen toxicity and DCS in repetitive deep breath-hold profiles. Kirk shares field experience from Deja Blue safety operations, long scooter dives in Truk Lagoon, and over 250,000+ technical freedives on the set of Avatar: The Way of Water. If you're a tech diver, CCR diver, or advanced freediver curious about applying gas management, ppO₂ limits, and decompression thinking to breath-hold diving, this is your gateway episode into the world of technical freediving.From Truk to Pandora: Kirk Krack on Tech Freediving & Avatar A sit down with Performance Freediving International founder Kirk Krack to unpack the emerging discipline of technical freediving. Kirk explains how PFI's partnership with TDI/SDI fits into the broader "all things diving" ecosystem, then dives deep into what truly separates a snorkeler, recreational freediver, spearfisher, competitive freediver, and a technical freediver. We get into the hard physics and physiology: using nitrox and high-O₂ mixes on the surface to reduce decompression stress, accelerate surface intervals, extend bottom time, and build safer safety-diver protocols—while still managing the very real risks of oxygen toxicity and DCS in repetitive deep breath-hold profiles. Kirk shares field experience from Deja Blue safety operations, long scooter dives in Truk Lagoon, and over 250,000+ technical freedives on the set of Avatar: The Way of Water. If you're a tech diver, CCR diver, or advanced freediver curious about applying gas management, ppO₂ limits, and decompression thinking to breath-hold diving, this is your gateway episode into the world of technical freediving. 9-11 Memorial Episode Mon, 06 Sep 2021 00:51:03 +0000 24:31 false 11 full Joseph Cocozza Sep 11th 20th Anniversary Episode. Joe and Arielle talk about their recollections from the events of that day. We would like all listeners to share their stories as well. Leave comments, send us an email or an audio file.Sep 11th 20th Anniversary Episode. Joe and Arielle talk about their recollections from the events of that day. We would like all listeners to share their stories as well. Leave comments, send us an email or an audio file. Human Factors in Diving: "Reducing Error Producing Conditions." Wed, 25 Aug 2021 19:00:00 +0000 25:57 false 11 226 full Human Factors in Diving: Part 3 "Reducing Error Producing Conditions." We wrap up our Human Factors discussion with Gareth Lock. We discuss error producing conditions, network influence mapping and how to improve learning from incidents. We also preview the upcoming Human Factors in Diving Conference. In Sept 2021 there will be the online Human Factors in Diving Conference. For more info and how to attend goto: https://www.hf-in-diving-conference.com/Human Factors in Diving: Part 3 "Reducing Error Producing Conditions." We wrap up our Human Factors discussion with Gareth Lock. We discuss error producing conditions, network influence mapping and how to improve learning from incidents. We also preview the upcoming Human Factors in Diving Conference. In Sept 2021 there will be the online Human Factors in Diving Conference. For more info and how to attend goto: https://www.hf-in-diving-conference.com/ Psycho-Motor Skills in Scuba Diving: A Discussion. Fri, 20 Aug 2021 05:37:38 +0000 32:02 false 11 225 full Joseph Cocozza On this episode of Pod Diver Radio, host Joe Cocozza sits down with longtime friend, cave diving buddy, and PADI big brain Karl Shreeves, Training Director at the Professional Association of Diving Instructors (PADI), to unpack a topic that underpins everything we do underwater: psychomotor skills in diving. Joe kicks things off by comparing his time on the BJJ mat to time underwater—how jiu jitsu forces you to integrate brain, body, and nervous system in real time—and asks Carl how that same idea applies to scuba and technical diving. From there, they dive into what psychomotor skills actually are, why "muscle memory" lives in your nervous system (not your quads), and how complex dive procedures become automatic over time, like riding a bike or nailing your buoyancy without thinking about it. Carl breaks down: The difference between motor skills and motor procedures (finning vs. air-sharing vs. valve drills) Why young divers often pick up skills faster—and what really holds many adults back How aging, injuries, and rotator cuffs affect tech skills like shutdowns and why sidemount can be a smart adaptation The role of habit, attitude, and learning interference in both good and bad in-water behavior Why under stress you default to your habits, not your "plan," and how to build the right automatic responses They also touch on neuroplasticity, language learning, freediving, yoga-style breath control, and how all of that crosses over into being a better, safer diver and instructor. If you're a dive pro, tech diver, instructor, or just a training nerd who wants to understand how people actually learn skills—and why some skills stick while others don't—this episode will give you a fresh lens on both your own diving and how you teach it. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Psychomotor_learningOn this episode of Pod Diver Radio, host Joe Cocozza sits down with longtime friend, cave diving buddy, and PADI big brain Karl Shreeves, Training Director at the Professional Association of Diving Instructors (PADI), to unpack a topic that underpins everything we do underwater: psychomotor skills in diving. Joe kicks things off by comparing his time on the BJJ mat to time underwater—how jiu jitsu forces you to integrate brain, body, and nervous system in real time—and asks Carl how that same idea applies to scuba and technical diving. From there, they dive into what psychomotor skills actually are, why "muscle memory" lives in your nervous system (not your quads), and how complex dive procedures become automatic over time, like riding a bike or nailing your buoyancy without thinking about it. Carl breaks down: The difference between motor skills and motor procedures (finning vs. air-sharing vs. valve drills) Why young divers often pick up skills faster—and what really holds many adults back How aging, injuries, and rotator cuffs affect tech skills like shutdowns and why sidemount can be a smart adaptation The role of habit, attitude, and learning interference in both good and bad in-water behavior Why under stress you default to your habits, not your "plan," and how to build the right automatic responses They also touch on neuroplasticity, language learning, freediving, yoga-style breath control, and how all of that crosses over into being a better, safer diver and instructor. If you're a dive pro, tech diver, instructor, or just a training nerd who wants to understand how people actually learn skills—and why some skills stick while others don't—this episode will give you a fresh lens on both your own diving and how you teach it. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Psychomotor_learning Human Factors in Diving: Psychological Safety and Just Culture (part 2) Fri, 13 Aug 2021 04:05:00 +0000 31:07 false 11 224 full Human Factors in Diving Psychological Safety and Just Culture: Gareth Lock, author of the book "The Human Diver" talks about the two key concepts in dive safety analysis. Psychological safety and just culture. - Psychological Safety is the belief that you won't be punished or humiliated for speaking up with ideas, questions, concerns, or mistakes. It's a shared belief held by members of a team that others on the team will not embarrass, reject, or punish you for speaking up. - Just Culture is a concept related to systems thinking which emphasizes that mistakes are generally a product of faulty organizational cultures, rather than solely brought about by the person or persons directly involved. In a just culture, after an incident, the question asked is, "What went wrong?" rather than "Who caused the problem?". In Sept 2021 there will be the online Human Factors in Diving Conference. For more info and how to attend goto: https://www.hf-in-diving-conference.com/Human Factors in Diving Psychological Safety and Just Culture: Gareth Lock, author of the book "The Human Diver" talks about the two key concepts in dive safety analysis. Psychological safety and just culture. - Psychological Safety is the belief that you won't be punished or humiliated for speaking up with ideas, questions, concerns, or mistakes. It's a shared belief held by members of a team that others on the team will not embarrass, reject, or punish you for speaking up. - Just Culture is a concept related to systems thinking which emphasizes that mistakes are generally a product of faulty organizational cultures, rather than solely brought about by the person or persons directly involved. In a just culture, after an incident, the question asked is, "What went wrong?" rather than "Who caused the problem?". In Sept 2021 there will be the online Human Factors in Diving Conference. For more info and how to attend goto: https://www.hf-in-diving-conference.com/ Human Factors in Diving. Interview with Gareth Lock (part 1) Fri, 06 Aug 2021 14:26:05 +0000 32:17 false 11 223 full Human Factors in Diving Part 1: An Introduction Gareth Lock is a retired RAF officer and dive educator who is the Director of "The Human Diver". This is an organization that's mission is to improve the safety and performance of divers thru the study of Human Factors. Human Factors are the physical or cognitive properties of individuals, or social behavior which is specific to humans, and influence functioning of technological systems as well as human-environment equilibria. The safety of diving operations can be improved by reducing the frequency of human error and the consequences when it does occur. Gareth wrote the seminal book on the this topic: Under Pressure: Diving Deeper with Human Factors purchase on Amazon: Gareth's website is: https://www.thehumandiver.com/ The 2021 Human Factors in Diving Conference is: https://www.hf-in-diving-conference.com/Human Factors in Diving Part 1: An Introduction Gareth Lock is a retired RAF officer and dive educator who is the Director of "The Human Diver". This is an organization that's mission is to improve the safety and performance of divers thru the study of Human Factors. Human Factors are the physical or cognitive properties of individuals, or social behavior which is specific to humans, and influence functioning of technological systems as well as human-environment equilibria. The safety of diving operations can be improved by reducing the frequency of human error and the consequences when it does occur. Gareth wrote the seminal book on the this topic: Under Pressure: Diving Deeper with Human Factors purchase on Amazon: Gareth's website is: https://www.thehumandiver.com/ The 2021 Human Factors in Diving Conference is: https://www.hf-in-diving-conference.com/ Inside Cave Training: Hidden Worlds on Real Technical Diver Education Fri, 30 Jul 2021 23:45:19 +0000 48:11 false 10 222 full Joseph Cocozza The Philosophy of Technical Dive Instruction: a discussion In this episode of Pod Diver Radio, host Joe Cocozza sits down with James and Marissa from Hidden Worlds Diving to dig into the philosophy behind modern technical and cave diver training. This isn't a gear-review show—it's a deep dive into how tech divers are made, not just certified. From their early days learning directly from the pioneers of technical diving to running a busy cave and rebreather operation in North Florida, James and Marissa share why true mastery can't be crammed into a 3-day checklist course. They break down mentoring vs. minimal standards, what "skill mastery" should really look like, and why environment-specific training in high-flow Florida caves is a completely different animal than blue-water decompression dives. You'll hear candid stories about gas-switch failures, sidemount setups that almost ended up in the closet forever, and why hiring a local guide or instructor can save you both money and misery. The team also tackles cave etiquette, conservation, and how over-extending mainlines and dumbing down dives can actually hurt the next generation of tech divers. If you're a wreck or tech diver thinking about going overhead—or you're already in cave country and wondering how to choose the right instructor—this episode will give you a brutally honest roadmap. Tags (SEO / tech-diver focused): technical diving training cave diving instruction Florida cave diving sidemount configuration NAUI technical diving rebreather and trimix training Ginnie Springs cave diving Hidden Worlds DivingThe Philosophy of Technical Dive Instruction: a discussion In this episode of Pod Diver Radio, host Joe Cocozza sits down with James and Marissa from Hidden Worlds Diving to dig into the philosophy behind modern technical and cave diver training. This isn't a gear-review show—it's a deep dive into how tech divers are made, not just certified. From their early days learning directly from the pioneers of technical diving to running a busy cave and rebreather operation in North Florida, James and Marissa share why true mastery can't be crammed into a 3-day checklist course. They break down mentoring vs. minimal standards, what "skill mastery" should really look like, and why environment-specific training in high-flow Florida caves is a completely different animal than blue-water decompression dives. You'll hear candid stories about gas-switch failures, sidemount setups that almost ended up in the closet forever, and why hiring a local guide or instructor can save you both money and misery. The team also tackles cave etiquette, conservation, and how over-extending mainlines and dumbing down dives can actually hurt the next generation of tech divers. If you're a wreck or tech diver thinking about going overhead—or you're already in cave country and wondering how to choose the right instructor—this episode will give you a brutally honest roadmap. Tags (SEO / tech-diver focused): technical diving training cave diving instruction Florida cave diving sidemount configuration NAUI technical diving rebreather and trimix training Ginnie Springs cave diving Hidden Worlds Diving Cave Diving as an Amputee Sun, 11 Jul 2021 11:00:00 +0000 18:22 false 10 221 full Interview with Shawn Clark about how he overcame the challenges of Cave Diving when he only has one leg.Interview with Shawn Clark about how he overcame the challenges of Cave Diving when he only has one leg. DIVERITE Optima CM Training: Part 2 Mon, 05 Jul 2021 20:34:04 +0000 24:53 false 10 220 full TRAINING on the OPTIMA CM: Chest Mounted CCR: PART-2 Training report on the CM w/ Lamar Hires of Dive Rite. On location at Blue Grotto Dive resort in Williston FL. For more info check out: https://www.diverite.com/products/uncategorized/o2ptima-cm/ To join the Optima CM Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/267267033283934TRAINING on the OPTIMA CM: Chest Mounted CCR: PART-2 Training report on the CM w/ Lamar Hires of Dive Rite. On location at Blue Grotto Dive resort in Williston FL. For more info check out: https://www.diverite.com/products/uncategorized/o2ptima-cm/ To join the Optima CM Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/267267033283934 DIVERITE Optima CM Training: Part 1 Sun, 27 Jun 2021 15:54:02 +0000 23:52 false 10 219 full TRAINING on the OPTIMA CM: Chest Mounted CCR PART-1 Training report on the CM w/ Jared Hires of Dive Rite. On location at Royal Springs FL. For more info check out: https://www.diverite.com/products/uncategorized/o2ptima-cm/ To join the Optima CM Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/267267033283934TRAINING on the OPTIMA CM: Chest Mounted CCR PART-1 Training report on the CM w/ Jared Hires of Dive Rite. On location at Royal Springs FL. For more info check out: https://www.diverite.com/products/uncategorized/o2ptima-cm/ To join the Optima CM Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/267267033283934 KISS Sidekick vs. Sidewinder: Sidemount Rebreathers for Serious Cave Divers Thu, 20 May 2021 02:21:07 +0000 11:56 false 13 217 full Joseph Cocozza Sidemount + rebreathers = the modern cave diver's playground. In this episode, Joe sits down with cardiologist, tech instructor, and KISS instructor trainer Dr. Doug Ebersole to unpack the design, history, and real-world use of KISS's two sidemount rebreathers: the Sidekick and the Sidewinder. Doug walks through how the original Sidekick evolved from a semi-closed cave exploration tool into a full CCR, and how a custom project for a double-amputee Marine, Josh Houghtaling, led to the creation of the Sidewinder—now one of the most popular sidemount CCRs in the cave community. You'll hear how each unit is configured, how counterlung placement impacts work of breathing, what's involved in trimming and weighting, and when you might choose a Sidekick over a Sidewinder for extreme restrictions. Doug also shares how some divers use the Sidewinder as a bailout CCR or even convert it into a lightweight "backwinder" for long recreational boat dives. If you're a cave or tech diver eyeing sidemount rebreathers—or trying to decide which KISS chassis matches your mission—this episode will give you a clear, practical comparison from someone who teaches and dives both.Sidemount + rebreathers = the modern cave diver's playground. In this episode, Joe sits down with cardiologist, tech instructor, and KISS instructor trainer Dr. Doug Ebersole to unpack the design, history, and real-world use of KISS's two sidemount rebreathers: the Sidekick and the Sidewinder. Doug walks through how the original Sidekick evolved from a semi-closed cave exploration tool into a full CCR, and how a custom project for a double-amputee Marine, Josh Houghtaling, led to the creation of the Sidewinder—now one of the most popular sidemount CCRs in the cave community. You'll hear how each unit is configured, how counterlung placement impacts work of breathing, what's involved in trimming and weighting, and when you might choose a Sidekick over a Sidewinder for extreme restrictions. Doug also shares how some divers use the Sidewinder as a bailout CCR or even convert it into a lightweight "backwinder" for long recreational boat dives. If you're a cave or tech diver eyeing sidemount rebreathers—or trying to decide which KISS chassis matches your mission—this episode will give you a clear, practical comparison from someone who teaches and dives both. Cave Diving Etiquette, Ego & Evolution – A Conversation with Terrence Tysall Mon, 10 May 2021 00:18:40 +0000 24:10 false 10 216 full Joseph Cocozza Broadcast from High Springs in the heart of North Florida cave country, this episode of Pod Diver Radio goes deep into cave diving etiquette, culture, and how tech training has changed over the last few decades. Joe sits down with his original cave instructor, Terrence Tysall – now NAUI's Director of Training and VP of Operations, Cambrian Foundation co-founder, former Texas A&M DSO, and long-time explorer. They look back at the early days of cave and trimix diving, mentorship from legends like Tom Mount, Bill Hamilton, and Sheck Exley, and how today's gear and training culture have reshaped who's going into the overhead. Using real recent dives at Ginnie Springs, Little River, and Peacock as case studies, Joe and Terrence break down what good cave etiquette looks like – exits having priority, scooter behavior in the Eye, not dropping on top of someone's deco, and how to interact with open-water divers in caverns without being "that" cave diver. Terrence also tackles bigger questions: – Why are some instructors only tech diving when they're teaching? – How social media and ego are driving Dunning–Kruger in the caves – Why checklists, gas analysis, and old-school line protocols still matter in a high-tech world – Five practical ways we can bring the community spirit back to cave country If you dive caves—or want to—this episode is a reality check on how we treat each other underground and how to keep the culture from devolving as the sport grows.Broadcast from High Springs in the heart of North Florida cave country, this episode of Pod Diver Radio goes deep into cave diving etiquette, culture, and how tech training has changed over the last few decades. Joe sits down with his original cave instructor, Terrence Tysall – now NAUI's Director of Training and VP of Operations, Cambrian Foundation co-founder, former Texas A&M DSO, and long-time explorer. They look back at the early days of cave and trimix diving, mentorship from legends like Tom Mount, Bill Hamilton, and Sheck Exley, and how today's gear and training culture have reshaped who's going into the overhead. Using real recent dives at Ginnie Springs, Little River, and Peacock as case studies, Joe and Terrence break down what good cave etiquette looks like – exits having priority, scooter behavior in the Eye, not dropping on top of someone's deco, and how to interact with open-water divers in caverns without being "that" cave diver. Terrence also tackles bigger questions: – Why are some instructors only tech diving when they're teaching? – How social media and ego are driving Dunning–Kruger in the caves – Why checklists, gas analysis, and old-school line protocols still matter in a high-tech world – Five practical ways we can bring the community spirit back to cave country If you dive caves—or want to—this episode is a reality check on how we treat each other underground and how to keep the culture from devolving as the sport grows. PFOs and DCS Sat, 24 Apr 2021 02:31:05 +0000 21:16 false 10 214 full Interview with Cardiologist Doug Ebersole MD talks about PFOs (Patent Foramen Ovale) which is a suspected risk factor for DCS (Decompression Sickness). PFO is a relatively benign cardiac defect that creates a passage in a wall that normally separates the left and right upper chambers of the heart. PFO is found in about 25 percent of adults. If gas bubbles form after a dive, the venous bloodstream will carry them to the right side of the heart. In divers with PFO, the bubbles could pass through the opening, bypassing the lungs and theoretically putting the diver at an increased risk of decompression sickness (DCS). For info about the study. https://dan.org/alert-diver/article/study-update-pfo/Interview with Cardiologist Doug Ebersole MD talks about PFOs (Patent Foramen Ovale) which is a suspected risk factor for DCS (Decompression Sickness). PFO is a relatively benign cardiac defect that creates a passage in a wall that normally separates the left and right upper chambers of the heart. PFO is found in about 25 percent of adults. If gas bubbles form after a dive, the venous bloodstream will carry them to the right side of the heart. In divers with PFO, the bubbles could pass through the opening, bypassing the lungs and theoretically putting the diver at an increased risk of decompression sickness (DCS). For info about the study. https://dan.org/alert-diver/article/study-update-pfo/ Ecology of the Underwater Caves of the Rivera Maya Tue, 20 Apr 2021 03:23:19 +0000 40:00 false 10 213 full Joseph Cocozza Sub Surface Ecology in the Underwater Caves of the Rivera Maya Interview with Dr David Brankovits PhD about the cave ecology and the food web in the underwater caves of the Yucatan Peninsula. Dr Brankovits is a Cave Diver and Biogeochemist. In his aquatic cave field work, he has made important discoveries of the food webs of underwater caves. He is currently working at Texas A&M University. Also he an expert in Marina Chemistry and an investigator for Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution. His paper on anchialine fauna from the Yucatan Peninsula, Mexico, can downloaded here: https://checklist.pensoft.net/article/19103/Sub Surface Ecology in the Underwater Caves of the Rivera Maya Interview with Dr David Brankovits PhD about the cave ecology and the food web in the underwater caves of the Yucatan Peninsula. Dr Brankovits is a Cave Diver and Biogeochemist. In his aquatic cave field work, he has made important discoveries of the food webs of underwater caves. He is currently working at Texas A&M University. Also he an expert in Marina Chemistry and an investigator for Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution. His paper on anchialine fauna from the Yucatan Peninsula, Mexico, can downloaded here: https://checklist.pensoft.net/article/19103/ Wreck Diving on Guadalcanal Fri, 16 Apr 2021 00:18:12 +0000 32:21 false 9 212 full Joseph Cocozza MSDT Shipwreck Diving the Warships of Guadalcanal Exploration Leader Terrence Tysall recounts the expedition to the World War 2 shipwrecks of Guadalcanal. Terrence discusses the history of the battle and the diving technology required to dive shipwreck in the 450fsw depth range. We also discuss the genius of a plan to go back to Guadalcanal...... The Naval Battle of Guadalcanal consisted of a series of sea engagements related to the Japanese effort to reinforce their land forces on Guadalcanal. The Japanese under Admiral Yamamoto Isoruku organized a convoy, embarking 7,000 troops. In conjunction with their troop landings, Japanese naval forces were to bombard US Marines in order to destroy U.S. aircraft that posed a threat to the Japanese ship movements. Ultimately, U.S. naval forces prevented the Japanese bombardment and sank most of the enemy troop transports. The only two U.S. Navy flag officers (Rear Admiral Daniel J. Callaghan, Rear Admiral Norman Scott) to be killed in a World War II surface engagement were lost in this battle. Two U.S. light cruisers, four destroyers, and 35 aircraft were lost; three destroyers were damaged. The Japanese lost two battleships, one heavy cruiser, three destroyers, eleven transports, and 64 aircraft. Japan's defeat also ended the enemy's final significant attempt to dislodge the Allied forces in the eastern Solomons.Shipwreck Diving the Warships of Guadalcanal Exploration Leader Terrence Tysall recounts the expedition to the World War 2 shipwrecks of Guadalcanal. Terrence discusses the history of the battle and the diving technology required to dive shipwreck in the 450fsw depth range. We also discuss the genius of a plan to go back to Guadalcanal...... The Naval Battle of Guadalcanal consisted of a series of sea engagements related to the Japanese effort to reinforce their land forces on Guadalcanal. The Japanese under Admiral Yamamoto Isoruku organized a convoy, embarking 7,000 troops. In conjunction with their troop landings, Japanese naval forces were to bombard US Marines in order to destroy U.S. aircraft that posed a threat to the Japanese ship movements. Ultimately, U.S. naval forces prevented the Japanese bombardment and sank most of the enemy troop transports. The only two U.S. Navy flag officers (Rear Admiral Daniel J. Callaghan, Rear Admiral Norman Scott) to be killed in a World War II surface engagement were lost in this battle. Two U.S. light cruisers, four destroyers, and 35 aircraft were lost; three destroyers were damaged. The Japanese lost two battleships, one heavy cruiser, three destroyers, eleven transports, and 64 aircraft. Japan's defeat also ended the enemy's final significant attempt to dislodge the Allied forces in the eastern Solomons. DIVE TALK at the Pod Diver Lodge Mon, 05 Apr 2021 05:04:25 +0000 15:51 false 10 210 full CAVE DIVE DISCUSSION at the Pod Diver Lodge. Interview with Woody and Gus of the DIVE TALK podcast. The guys came down for a week of diving in North Florida Cave Country and they stayed at the Pod Diver Lodge. Check out there podcast at: https://divetalkmedia.com. Check the YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCb9sy84UQUOAL5To0IPotpw For more info about staying at the Pod Diver Lodge goto: www.poddiverlodge.comCAVE DIVE DISCUSSION at the Pod Diver Lodge. Interview with Woody and Gus of the DIVE TALK podcast. The guys came down for a week of diving in North Florida Cave Country and they stayed at the Pod Diver Lodge. Check out there podcast at: https://divetalkmedia.com. Check the YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCb9sy84UQUOAL5To0IPotpw For more info about staying at the Pod Diver Lodge goto: www.poddiverlodge.com Diving the USS Monitor Mon, 15 Mar 2021 03:05:34 +0000 17:07 false 9 208 full Joseph Cocozza: PADI MSDT Interview with Mike Ange about the 1996 NOAA Expedition to dive the wreck of the USS Monitor. From the early days of technical diving. #USNavy #TechDiving #Trimix #NOAAInterview with Mike Ange about the 1996 NOAA Expedition to dive the wreck of the USS Monitor. From the early days of technical diving. #USNavy #TechDiving #Trimix #NOAA PD207: POD DIVER LODGE Mon, 13 May 2019 03:24:54 +0000 31:45 false 10 207 full JOSEPH M. COCOZZA Introducing the POD DIVER LODGE. We chat with Pete Murry Chairman of the Scubaboard.com and Cave Diving Geologist Jerry Murphy at Episode at the Pod Diver Lodge in High Springs Florida. The Pod Diver Lodge is a lodge from cave divers for cave divers. Check us out at www.poddiverlodge.com #DiverChat #CaveDiving #scubaboardIntroducing the POD DIVER LODGE. We chat with Pete Murry Chairman of the Scubaboard.com and Cave Diving Geologist Jerry Murphy at Episode at the Pod Diver Lodge in High Springs Florida. The Pod Diver Lodge is a lodge from cave divers for cave divers. Check us out at www.poddiverlodge.com #DiverChat #CaveDiving #scubaboard Reef Guardians of Grenada: Ecotourism, Coral Nurseries & the Lionfish Fight Sat, 16 Jul 2016 00:13:23 +0000 15:49 false 8 198 full Joseph Cocozza MSDT We sit down with Gary Ward of Defer Diving and the NGO Caribbean Reef Buddy to explore how ecotourism is powering real reef protection in Grenada. Gary and his team train volunteers to collect reef monitoring data, run a coral nursery (with locally trained coral gardeners), and lead weekly lionfish culls that have turned an invasive predator into a community resource—from restaurant menus to artisan jewelry. Hear how baseline data guides action, why youth programs create the next generation of reef stewards, and how dive travel can leave a lasting legacy. We also talk dive ops at Defer Diving (from Discover Scuba to IDC pro training) and how visiting divers can plug into hands-on conservation. Highlights Ecotourism that funds measurable marine conservation Training programs for reef surveys (fish, benthic, coral) Coral nursery → out-planting elkhorn coral with local gardeners Weekly lionfish removals, derbies, and building market demand What visiting divers can do to help—ethically and effectively Subscribe for more conversations at the intersection of diving, science, and conservationWe sit down with Gary Ward of Defer Diving and the NGO Caribbean Reef Buddy to explore how ecotourism is powering real reef protection in Grenada. Gary and his team train volunteers to collect reef monitoring data, run a coral nursery (with locally trained coral gardeners), and lead weekly lionfish culls that have turned an invasive predator into a community resource—from restaurant menus to artisan jewelry. Hear how baseline data guides action, why youth programs create the next generation of reef stewards, and how dive travel can leave a lasting legacy. We also talk dive ops at Defer Diving (from Discover Scuba to IDC pro training) and how visiting divers can plug into hands-on conservation. Highlights Ecotourism that funds measurable marine conservation Training programs for reef surveys (fish, benthic, coral) Coral nursery → out-planting elkhorn coral with local gardeners Weekly lionfish removals, derbies, and building market demand What visiting divers can do to help—ethically and effectively Subscribe for more conversations at the intersection of diving, science, and conservation Grenada's Native Spirit Scuba: Wreck Diving, Sharks, & Coral Gardening Tue, 12 Jul 2016 19:10:04 +0000 16:05 false 8 196 full Joseph Cocozza MSDT Native Spirit Scuba, it is the first diving operation owned and operated by native Grenadian citizens. On the beach at Native Spirit Scuba (Radisson Grenada Beach Resort) with owner Adrian and coral-gardener Paulina after two stellar dives. First up: the HEMA—a 50-meter cargo wreck resting around 100 ft/30 m—stacked with life: eagle rays, nurse and reef sharks, turtles and schooling fish. Then we drift Shark Reef on the Atlantic side, a site Adrian scouted back in the '90s that lights up when the current runs—juvenile sharks, rays, lobsters and more. Paulina explains Grenada's coral-nursery program—growing staghorn in underwater nurseries, cleaning structures, monitoring growth, and transplanting colonies back onto threatened Grand Anse reefs. We also talk Native Spirit's smooth beach launch (ankles only!), pro crew, and why wreck + reef days here are perfect for recreational divers who want big-animal encounters without technical complexity. For more info Telephone.: (473) 439-7013 Mobile: (473) 420 -1080 , 415-1080 Email: info@nativespiritscuba.com http://www.nativespiritscuba.com/index.htmNative Spirit Scuba, it is the first diving operation owned and operated by native Grenadian citizens. On the beach at Native Spirit Scuba (Radisson Grenada Beach Resort) with owner Adrian and coral-gardener Paulina after two stellar dives. First up: the HEMA—a 50-meter cargo wreck resting around 100 ft/30 m—stacked with life: eagle rays, nurse and reef sharks, turtles and schooling fish. Then we drift Shark Reef on the Atlantic side, a site Adrian scouted back in the '90s that lights up when the current runs—juvenile sharks, rays, lobsters and more. Paulina explains Grenada's coral-nursery program—growing staghorn in underwater nurseries, cleaning structures, monitoring growth, and transplanting colonies back onto threatened Grand Anse reefs. We also talk Native Spirit's smooth beach launch (ankles only!), pro crew, and why wreck + reef days here are perfect for recreational divers who want big-animal encounters without technical complexity. For more info Telephone.: (473) 439-7013 Mobile: (473) 420 -1080 , 415-1080 Email: info@nativespiritscuba.com http://www.nativespiritscuba.com/index.htm Shipwreck diving on the MV Shakem Sat, 09 Jul 2016 14:43:40 +0000 11:32 false 8 195 full PROJECT GRENADA. Technical Diving on Grenada: CCR/Shipwreck diving on the MV Shakem. We interview Aquanauts Grenada head instructor Paul Ward about the dive. We also discuss the upcoming GRENADA TECH DIVING JAMBOREE that is being sponsored by Aquanauts Grenada. For more info about tech diving and GRENADA TECH DIVING JAMBOREE goto http://www.aquanautsgrenada.com/en/ Or you can call them: From the UK 020-8144-8606 From the USA 850-303-0330 DIRECT AUDIO DOWNLOAD Episode PD-195 #ExpeditionGrenada Expedition Grenada. Day 8.PROJECT GRENADA. Technical Diving on Grenada: CCR/Shipwreck diving on the MV Shakem. We interview Aquanauts Grenada head instructor Paul Ward about the dive. We also discuss the upcoming GRENADA TECH DIVING JAMBOREE that is being sponsored by Aquanauts Grenada. For more info about tech diving and GRENADA TECH DIVING JAMBOREE goto http://www.aquanautsgrenada.com/en/ Or you can call them: From the UK 020-8144-8606 From the USA 850-303-0330 DIRECT AUDIO DOWNLOAD Episode PD-195 #ExpeditionGrenada Expedition Grenada. Day 8. Tech Diving Grenada: Deep wreck diving on the Bianca C with ScubaTech Thu, 07 Jul 2016 02:15:23 +0000 16:52 false 8 194 full Joseph Cocozza Sitting on the beach in Grenada with waves at their feet, Joe Cocozza and explorer–filmmaker Jill Heinerth recap a perfect tech-diving day with the crew from ScubaTech Grenada. First up: the legendary Bianca C – a 600-foot "Caribbean Titanic" with a wild history of multiple sinkings, explosions, and rescue by the people of Grenada. Captain Sal brings the wreck's story to life, while tech instructor Evelyn walks us through the dive plan: free descent to the stern, drifting the wreck from 160 ft shallows to deco, DSMB pickup, and effortless tech support (doubles, 50% deco gas, CCR support – all waiting on the boat). Then it's off to Purple Rain, a fish-rich reef where clouds of juvenile reef fish, low lionfish counts, and healthy corals show why Grenada and Carriacou are a "fishy" diver's paradise. Evelyn also explains why Grenada is an ideal place to learn and train – from recreational diving all the way up to CCR and Advanced Trimix instructor, all in warm, clear water with easy boat logistics and real shipwrecks. If you've ever dreamed of doing serious tech diving in flip-flops, with your gear carried to the boat and a cold drink waiting after deco, this episode will put Grenada & ScubaTech at the top of your dive-travel list.Sitting on the beach in Grenada with waves at their feet, Joe Cocozza and explorer–filmmaker Jill Heinerth recap a perfect tech-diving day with the crew from ScubaTech Grenada. First up: the legendary Bianca C – a 600-foot "Caribbean Titanic" with a wild history of multiple sinkings, explosions, and rescue by the people of Grenada. Captain Sal brings the wreck's story to life, while tech instructor Evelyn walks us through the dive plan: free descent to the stern, drifting the wreck from 160 ft shallows to deco, DSMB pickup, and effortless tech support (doubles, 50% deco gas, CCR support – all waiting on the boat). Then it's off to Purple Rain, a fish-rich reef where clouds of juvenile reef fish, low lionfish counts, and healthy corals show why Grenada and Carriacou are a "fishy" diver's paradise. Evelyn also explains why Grenada is an ideal place to learn and train – from recreational diving all the way up to CCR and Advanced Trimix instructor, all in warm, clear water with easy boat logistics and real shipwrecks. If you've ever dreamed of doing serious tech diving in flip-flops, with your gear carried to the boat and a cold drink waiting after deco, this episode will put Grenada & ScubaTech at the top of your dive-travel list. Carriacou Dive Life: Richard & Diane on Building a Diver's Haven in Carriacou Mon, 04 Jul 2016 16:33:53 +0000 31:55 false 8 192 full Joseph Cocozza We visit Tyrell Bay, Carriacou (north of Grenada) to talk with Richard and Diane, owners of a local dive operation steps from the beach. They share how they built a relaxed, concierge-style shop—complete with a private jetty and dinghy pickups for cruisers—and why Carriacou's 38 dive sites keep photographers and explorers coming back. We break down two signature dives—Sisters Rock and Tropical Hill—plus the island's hands-on fight against the invasive lionfish (weekly culls, restaurant partnerships, even artisan jewelry). Most sites sit inside the Sandy Island Oyster Bed Marine Protected Area, where biomass and juvenile fish thrive. Hear how teaching local eels to predate lionfish reduced sightings on popular reefs and why Carriacou feels like "old-school Caribbean" diving done right.We visit Tyrell Bay, Carriacou (north of Grenada) to talk with Richard and Diane, owners of a local dive operation steps from the beach. They share how they built a relaxed, concierge-style shop—complete with a private jetty and dinghy pickups for cruisers—and why Carriacou's 38 dive sites keep photographers and explorers coming back. We break down two signature dives—Sisters Rock and Tropical Hill—plus the island's hands-on fight against the invasive lionfish (weekly culls, restaurant partnerships, even artisan jewelry). Most sites sit inside the Sandy Island Oyster Bed Marine Protected Area, where biomass and juvenile fish thrive. Hear how teaching local eels to predate lionfish reduced sightings on popular reefs and why Carriacou feels like "old-school Caribbean" diving done right. Expedition Grenada – Sound Scene Tour: Arrival, Eco Dive & Sculpture Park Sun, 03 Jul 2016 02:00:50 +0000 22:06 false 8 191 full Joseph Cocozza MSDT On this first Expedition Grenada Sound Scene Tour, Joe Cocozza and explorer–filmmaker Jill Heinerth take you along from their breakfast table on Grand Anse Beach to the dive boat and back again. Jill shares the not-so-glamorous reality of red-eye flights, rushed uploads for a Japanese TV crew, and arriving in paradise on zero sleep. Joe and Jill paint an audio picture of their beachfront base at Coyaba Resort—bird nets, volcanic mountains, British-Caribbean vibe, and all. Then they walk the 85 feet to Eco Dive Grenada to meet marine biologist and dive operator Christine Finney, who gives a crash course on Grenada's geography, underwater volcano Kick 'em Jenny, and the island's leeward dive sites. In the afternoon, the team splashes into the Molinière–Beauséjour Marine Protected Area to explore Flamingo Bay Reef and the world's first underwater sculpture park. From long, shallow macro dives over fishy reefs to art installations transforming into living coral, this episode puts you right on the boat for Day One of Expedition Grenada.On this first Expedition Grenada Sound Scene Tour, Joe Cocozza and explorer–filmmaker Jill Heinerth take you along from their breakfast table on Grand Anse Beach to the dive boat and back again. Jill shares the not-so-glamorous reality of red-eye flights, rushed uploads for a Japanese TV crew, and arriving in paradise on zero sleep. Joe and Jill paint an audio picture of their beachfront base at Coyaba Resort—bird nets, volcanic mountains, British-Caribbean vibe, and all. Then they walk the 85 feet to Eco Dive Grenada to meet marine biologist and dive operator Christine Finney, who gives a crash course on Grenada's geography, underwater volcano Kick 'em Jenny, and the island's leeward dive sites. In the afternoon, the team splashes into the Molinière–Beauséjour Marine Protected Area to explore Flamingo Bay Reef and the world's first underwater sculpture park. From long, shallow macro dives over fishy reefs to art installations transforming into living coral, this episode puts you right on the boat for Day One of Expedition Grenada. Deadly Chains: Jeff Bozanic on Rebreather Accident Patterns Sun, 12 Jun 2016 19:18:01 +0000 41:00 false 6 190 full Joseph Cocozza A sitdown with legendary explorer, instructor, and authorJeff Bozanic to dissect what really kills rebreather divers — and how to break the accident chain before it reaches the fatal endpoint. Bozanic walks through the true incident picture for CCR vs open circuit, why early adopters skew the stats, and how advanced cave and deep wreck missions intersect with a steep learning curve on new life-support technology. Using detailed case studies (including a trimix instructor fatality involving wrong bailout gas, missing regulator, entanglement, and an isolation valve in the wrong place), he shows how most CCR deaths are not "one big mistake" but layers of small errors stacked together. Key technical topics include: Why rebreather incident rates appear ~10x higher than OC — and why that comparison is misleading How OC muscle memory (dropping a reg, response to gas emergencies) can be lethal on CCR The role of checklists: why long ones get ignored and how a short, targeted pre-dive CCR check could prevent 60–80% of known fatalities Human factors, complacency, and the "I got away with it last time" mindset in advanced dives Why 5-minute prebreathe "CO₂ tests" are functionally nonsense and how hypercapnia destroys your ability to self-assess Where rebreather tech, procedures, and training are headed over the next 20 years If you dive or teach CCR — especially in caves, deep wrecks, or mixed-gas environments — this episode is a blunt, data-driven look at accident analysis for rebreather diving and the mindset required to keep pushing the envelope without becoming a statistic.A sitdown with legendary explorer, instructor, and authorJeff Bozanic to dissect what really kills rebreather divers — and how to break the accident chain before it reaches the fatal endpoint. Bozanic walks through the true incident picture for CCR vs open circuit, why early adopters skew the stats, and how advanced cave and deep wreck missions intersect with a steep learning curve on new life-support technology. Using detailed case studies (including a trimix instructor fatality involving wrong bailout gas, missing regulator, entanglement, and an isolation valve in the wrong place), he shows how most CCR deaths are not "one big mistake" but layers of small errors stacked together. Key technical topics include: Why rebreather incident rates appear ~10x higher than OC — and why that comparison is misleading How OC muscle memory (dropping a reg, response to gas emergencies) can be lethal on CCR The role of checklists: why long ones get ignored and how a short, targeted pre-dive CCR check could prevent 60–80% of known fatalities Human factors, complacency, and the "I got away with it last time" mindset in advanced dives Why 5-minute prebreathe "CO₂ tests" are functionally nonsense and how hypercapnia destroys your ability to self-assess Where rebreather tech, procedures, and training are headed over the next 20 years If you dive or teach CCR — especially in caves, deep wrecks, or mixed-gas environments — this episode is a blunt, data-driven look at accident analysis for rebreather diving and the mindset required to keep pushing the envelope without becoming a statistic. Extreme Free Diving Sun, 01 May 2016 18:12:23 +0000 28:52 false 6 188 full Interview w/ Kirk Krack & Mandy Rae Krack of Performance Free-diving International about the sport of Freediving. We go "in-depth" and discuss the philology, history and mindset to succeed in the sport of Free-diving. Kirk Krack is Kirk, is freediving, coach and instructor trainer. He is one of the world's foremost authorities on the professional aspects of freediving education. Mandy Rae Krack is a world champion free-diver and record-holder. She set the women's world record for constant ballast by diving to a depth of 88 metres (289 ft) on one breath. (PD188 FREE AUDIO DOWNLOAD HERE)Interview w/ Kirk Krack & Mandy Rae Krack of Performance Free-diving International about the sport of Freediving. We go "in-depth" and discuss the philology, history and mindset to succeed in the sport of Free-diving. Kirk Krack is Kirk, is freediving, coach and instructor trainer. He is one of the world's foremost authorities on the professional aspects of freediving education. Mandy Rae Krack is a world champion free-diver and record-holder. She set the women's world record for constant ballast by diving to a depth of 88 metres (289 ft) on one breath. (PD188 FREE AUDIO DOWNLOAD HERE) Dr. Dawn Kernagis: Tech Diver ~ Research Scientist Mon, 25 Apr 2016 23:35:24 +0000 19:46 false 6 187 full Interview with Dr. Kernagis, who is a cave explorer and a scientist in the area of human performance optimization and risk mitigation for operators in extreme environments, such as those working in undersea diving.Interview with Dr. Kernagis, who is a cave explorer and a scientist in the area of human performance optimization and risk mitigation for operators in extreme environments, such as those working in undersea diving. Free Diving Discussion at DEMA Wed, 06 Apr 2016 04:31:31 +0000 18:35 false 6 184 full Free Diving Discussion with Stephan Whalen from www.deeperblue.com Stephan discuss details about Free diving training and the different aspects of free diving.Free Diving Discussion with Stephan Whalen from www.deeperblue.com Stephan discuss details about Free diving training and the different aspects of free diving. CaveDive Training Discussion Tue, 05 Apr 2016 22:46:40 +0000 PD-183]]> PD-183]]> 31:46 false 6 183 full Cave Dive Training Discussion: Interview with Ralph DiPanfilo of NSS-CDS about the progression of Cave Diving Training from Cavern Diver to Full Cave Diver. PD-183Cave Dive Training Discussion: Interview with Ralph DiPanfilo of NSS-CDS about the progression of Cave Diving Training from Cavern Diver to Full Cave Diver. PD-183 Decompression Risk & Reality with Dr. Richard Vann (DAN) Tue, 05 Apr 2016 18:46:12 +0000 15:32 false 7 182 full Joseph Cocozza In this episode of Pod Diver Radio, Joe sits back down with Dr. Richard Vann of Divers Alert Network (DAN) to unpack what "safe" really means when it comes to decompression. Dr. Vann explains why decompression sickness (DCS) is rare in warm-water Caribbean-style diving—on the order of 1–2 cases per 10,000 dives—and why cold-water wreck diving under similar depth/time profiles can see up to 15 times higher risk. He breaks down the two pillars of decompression safety: Probability of getting bent Severity of the hit (from mild joint pain to serious neurological injury) We look at how different communities define acceptable risk—from the U.S. Navy (who dive with chambers on standby) to North Sea and Gulf of Mexico commercial operations—and why their numbers and tolerance levels don't look the same as recreational diving. Joe and Dr. Vann also talk about the upcoming DAN Technical Diving Conference, and why collecting real dive profiles and incident reports from tech divers is critical to improving decompression models for both technical and recreational communities. If you're a tech or cave diver, this is your gentle nudge to log your dives, share your data, and help push the science forward.In this episode of Pod Diver Radio, Joe sits back down with Dr. Richard Vann of Divers Alert Network (DAN) to unpack what "safe" really means when it comes to decompression. Dr. Vann explains why decompression sickness (DCS) is rare in warm-water Caribbean-style diving—on the order of 1–2 cases per 10,000 dives—and why cold-water wreck diving under similar depth/time profiles can see up to 15 times higher risk. He breaks down the two pillars of decompression safety: Probability of getting bent Severity of the hit (from mild joint pain to serious neurological injury) We look at how different communities define acceptable risk—from the U.S. Navy (who dive with chambers on standby) to North Sea and Gulf of Mexico commercial operations—and why their numbers and tolerance levels don't look the same as recreational diving. Joe and Dr. Vann also talk about the upcoming DAN Technical Diving Conference, and why collecting real dive profiles and incident reports from tech divers is critical to improving decompression models for both technical and recreational communities. If you're a tech or cave diver, this is your gentle nudge to log your dives, share your data, and help push the science forward. Richie Kohler 2016 Interview Mon, 04 Apr 2016 06:29:52 +0000 21:09 true 6 181 full Richie Kohler and his personal "Life Aquatic". We interview Richie Kohler at Beneath the Sea 2016 and discuss what it is like on the inside of tech diving and TV production industry. Joe and Rich share stories about how similar the reality is to the Bill Murray movie; "The Life Aquatic". FREE AUDIO FILE DOWNLOAD HERERichie Kohler and his personal "Life Aquatic". We interview Richie Kohler at Beneath the Sea 2016 and discuss what it is like on the inside of tech diving and TV production industry. Joe and Rich share stories about how similar the reality is to the Bill Murray movie; "The Life Aquatic". FREE AUDIO FILE DOWNLOAD HERE Diving in the Dominican Republic. Sun, 14 Feb 2016 02:07:07 +0000 12:25 false 6 176 full Recreational Diving with Tropical Sea Divers in Boca Chica Dominican Republic. We interview the Alexandre Cottier about diving and lifestyle in The DR. http://tropicalseadivers.com/Recreational Diving with Tropical Sea Divers in Boca Chica Dominican Republic. We interview the Alexandre Cottier about diving and lifestyle in The DR. http://tropicalseadivers.com/ Dominican Republic Cave Diving. Fri, 05 Feb 2016 03:44:17 +0000 15:38 false 6 174 full The Pod Diver Crews heads down to go Cave diving in the Dominican Republic. We meet up with the folks at Cave Hunters DR. We dive two cave systems 1. La Jeringa Cave 2. Padre Nuestro Cave For more info goto CAVE HUNTERS DRThe Pod Diver Crews heads down to go Cave diving in the Dominican Republic. We meet up with the folks at Cave Hunters DR. We dive two cave systems 1. La Jeringa Cave 2. Padre Nuestro Cave For more info goto CAVE HUNTERS DR CMAS: Interview w/ Director & Instructor Trainer of CMAS. Wed, 30 Dec 2015 23:37:07 +0000 22:29 false 7 173 full CMAS: The World Wide Underwater Federation (Confédération Mondiale des Activités Subaquatiques) CMAS is an international and multi-faceted organization that promotes scuba training, aquatic sports and the aquatic sciences. It is one of the oldest and most extensive dive training systems. While in the Azores we interviewed Mr Joao Gomes-Pedro, he discusses the history and philosophy of CMAS and the future of international dive training. We also discuss the new term that scuba divers should be aware of: "Aquaticity" A diver having the ability and skills to be confident in the water.CMAS: The World Wide Underwater Federation (Confédération Mondiale des Activités Subaquatiques) CMAS is an international and multi-faceted organization that promotes scuba training, aquatic sports and the aquatic sciences. It is one of the oldest and most extensive dive training systems. While in the Azores we interviewed Mr Joao Gomes-Pedro, he discusses the history and philosophy of CMAS and the future of international dive training. We also discuss the new term that scuba divers should be aware of: "Aquaticity" A diver having the ability and skills to be confident in the water. Britannic Expedition. Intvw w/ Richie Kohler Thu, 19 Nov 2015 11:21:27 +0000 For more info about the book goto: https://www.bestpub.com/mystery-of-the-last-olympian.html Direct Download of PD172 Audio File.]]> For more info about the book goto: https://www.bestpub.com/mystery-of-the-last-olympian.html Direct Download of PD172 Audio File.]]> 25:29 false 7 172 full Mystery of the Last Olympian: Titanic's Tragic Sister Britannic. (new book) Interview with Richie Kohler at DEMA 2015 about his expeditions to the HMS Britannic and his new book about the same. For more info about the book goto: https://www.bestpub.com/mystery-of-the-last-olympian.html Direct Download of PD172 Audio File.Mystery of the Last Olympian: Titanic's Tragic Sister Britannic. (new book) Interview with Richie Kohler at DEMA 2015 about his expeditions to the HMS Britannic and his new book about the same. For more info about the book goto: https://www.bestpub.com/mystery-of-the-last-olympian.html Direct Download of PD172 Audio File. INSPIRATION CCR-Rebreather interview w/ Martin Parker. Sat, 14 Nov 2015 16:17:30 +0000 24:08 false full Interview with Martian Parker of AP Diving about the Inspiration Closed Circuit Rebreather. PD171: We discuss, the development history, CE approval and what's new in 2015 for Inspiration CCR. Including; the new color Vision Electronics and HUS.Interview with Martian Parker of AP Diving about the Inspiration Closed Circuit Rebreather. PD171: We discuss, the development history, CE approval and what's new in 2015 for Inspiration CCR. Including; the new color Vision Electronics and HUS. Shipwreck Research in the Azores Tue, 29 Sep 2015 15:00:00 +0000 34:26 false 7 169 full Five hundred years of shipwreck history. We interview Dr Jose Neto and Dr Pedro Parreira. Marine Archeologists at the Azores Regional Directory of Culture. We discuss the rich nautical history of the Azores and shipwreck diving in the Azores. DOWNLOAD AUDIO PODCASTFive hundred years of shipwreck history. We interview Dr Jose Neto and Dr Pedro Parreira. Marine Archeologists at the Azores Regional Directory of Culture. We discuss the rich nautical history of the Azores and shipwreck diving in the Azores. DOWNLOAD AUDIO PODCAST Dry caving on Terceira Island Sat, 26 Sep 2015 16:30:00 +0000 11:53 false 7 168 full We explore Algar do Carvão, a volcanic vent located in the central part of the island of Terceira. We interview Laura Barbosa from Association of Mountaineers Azores. Terceira has over 60 dry lava caves. Cave exploring is amazing way to spend the day when you can't go diving. For more info about the caves of Terceira. Goto www.mountanheiros.comWe explore Algar do Carvão, a volcanic vent located in the central part of the island of Terceira. We interview Laura Barbosa from Association of Mountaineers Azores. Terceira has over 60 dry lava caves. Cave exploring is amazing way to spend the day when you can't go diving. For more info about the caves of Terceira. Goto www.mountanheiros.com Whales of the Azores: Science, Tourism & Conservation Fri, 25 Sep 2015 19:49:23 +0000 21:02 false 7 167 full Joe Cocozza reports from São Miguel in the Azores, with Miranda van der Linde, head marine biologist at Futurismo. Miranda shares how she went from studying sperm whales in New Zealand to spending "one season" in the Azores… and never leaving. She explains why this mid-Atlantic volcanic archipelago draws an incredible variety of cetaceans: deep offshore drop-offs, seamounts, upwelling, rich plankton blooms, and squid-filled canyons that create a buffet for whales. You'll learn the difference between toothed whales like sperm whales and baleen whales like blue and fin whales, why some are residents while others are migratory visitors, and how photo-ID research using fluke patterns helps scientists track individuals across the North Atlantic. Miranda also walks us through the Azores' remarkable transition from whaling hub to whale-watching hotspot, and how responsible ecotourism—strict approach rules, no feeding, education on board, and long-term data sharing with universities—helps protect these animals while supporting the local economy. If you've ever dreamed of seeing blue whales, sperm whales, and dolphins in the wild—and want to understand how to do it ethically—this conversation from the docks of São Miguel is your field guide.Joe Cocozza reports from São Miguel in the Azores, with Miranda van der Linde, head marine biologist at Futurismo. Miranda shares how she went from studying sperm whales in New Zealand to spending "one season" in the Azores… and never leaving. She explains why this mid-Atlantic volcanic archipelago draws an incredible variety of cetaceans: deep offshore drop-offs, seamounts, upwelling, rich plankton blooms, and squid-filled canyons that create a buffet for whales. You'll learn the difference between toothed whales like sperm whales and baleen whales like blue and fin whales, why some are residents while others are migratory visitors, and how photo-ID research using fluke patterns helps scientists track individuals across the North Atlantic. Miranda also walks us through the Azores' remarkable transition from whaling hub to whale-watching hotspot, and how responsible ecotourism—strict approach rules, no feeding, education on board, and long-term data sharing with universities—helps protect these animals while supporting the local economy. If you've ever dreamed of seeing blue whales, sperm whales, and dolphins in the wild—and want to understand how to do it ethically—this conversation from the docks of São Miguel is your field guide. BEST SPOT AZORES: Dive Center Thu, 24 Sep 2015 18:43:19 +0000 16:32 false 7 166 full Post dive interview with PADI Master Instructor and Marine Biologist Bruno Sergio of the BEST SPOT AZORES Dive Center. Joe Cocozza along with Jill Heinerth talk with Bruno about the diving on Sao Miguel Island and the unique marine ecology of the Azores. BEST SPOT Dive Center is located on the marina in Sao Miguel Island and they are a PADI 100% AWARE 5* Dive Resort and Aqualung Partner Center. For more information about diving with them contact Bruno on Facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/Best-Spot-Azores-131805683667217 Website: www.bestspotazores.com Email: bestspotazores@gmail.com DIRECT DOWNLOAD FREE AUDIO PODCASTPost dive interview with PADI Master Instructor and Marine Biologist Bruno Sergio of the BEST SPOT AZORES Dive Center. Joe Cocozza along with Jill Heinerth talk with Bruno about the diving on Sao Miguel Island and the unique marine ecology of the Azores. BEST SPOT Dive Center is located on the marina in Sao Miguel Island and they are a PADI 100% AWARE 5* Dive Resort and Aqualung Partner Center. For more information about diving with them contact Bruno on Facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/Best-Spot-Azores-131805683667217 Website: www.bestspotazores.com Email: bestspotazores@gmail.com DIRECT DOWNLOAD FREE AUDIO PODCAST Scuba on TERCEIRA Island Fri, 18 Sep 2015 22:13:37 +0000 24:02 false 7 164 full Interview with Devin Leary owner of ARRAIA DIVERS in Terceria Azores. We talk about the great potenial for cave and shipwreck exploration of this Mid Atlantic Island. info@arraiadivers.com. Projecto Azores Podcast: PD-164 DOWNLOAD AUDIO FREE FILE HEREInterview with Devin Leary owner of ARRAIA DIVERS in Terceria Azores. We talk about the great potenial for cave and shipwreck exploration of this Mid Atlantic Island. info@arraiadivers.com. Projecto Azores Podcast: PD-164 DOWNLOAD AUDIO FREE FILE HERE DPV Technology Sat, 15 Aug 2015 01:53:08 +0000 22:06 false 7 163 full Diver Propulsion Vehicles: Interview with Will Baxter of DIVE XTRAS about new Diver Propulsion Vehicle Technology and diving in the Pacific Northwest.Diver Propulsion Vehicles: Interview with Will Baxter of DIVE XTRAS about new Diver Propulsion Vehicle Technology and diving in the Pacific Northwest. CCR Tech Talk: Hammerhead Rebreather Features & the SubGravity H3 Computer Mon, 08 Jun 2015 23:32:44 +0000 09:20 false 7 159 full Joseph Cocozza Special tech episode of Pod Diver Radio, host Joe Cocozza checks in live from Beneath the Sea 2015 with SubGravity president and dedicated cave diver Josh Thornton for a deep dive into modern CCR gear. Josh shares how a childhood cenote dive in Mexico pulled him into cave diving—and how that passion now drives SubGravity's design philosophy. Together, they unpack the Hammerhead closed circuit rebreather, including: The online "Build a Rebreather" (BART) configurator that lets you spec your Hammerhead from can size to materials The removable O₂ cell cartridge pre-wired for up to four sensors, making swaps, drying and inspection easy Click-lock bayonet hose fittings that simplify setup, teardown and mushroom-valve checks—no threads, no hassle Then they turn to the H3 dive computer—a compact OLED unit developed with the Austrian military—covering: Full support for air, nitrox, trimix and CCR so you don't outgrow your computer NFC (near-field communication) logging straight to your phone for instant dive downloads and sharing The roadmap for wireless cylinder pressure and future wireless PO₂ monitoring, all enabled via firmware updates on the same unit If you're a CCR diver, a rebreather-curious OC tech diver, or a cave diver looking for robust electronics and modular life support, this Hammerhead + H3 breakdown is packed with practical, gear-nerd detail.Special tech episode of Pod Diver Radio, host Joe Cocozza checks in live from Beneath the Sea 2015 with SubGravity president and dedicated cave diver Josh Thornton for a deep dive into modern CCR gear. Josh shares how a childhood cenote dive in Mexico pulled him into cave diving—and how that passion now drives SubGravity's design philosophy. Together, they unpack the Hammerhead closed circuit rebreather, including: The online "Build a Rebreather" (BART) configurator that lets you spec your Hammerhead from can size to materials The removable O₂ cell cartridge pre-wired for up to four sensors, making swaps, drying and inspection easy Click-lock bayonet hose fittings that simplify setup, teardown and mushroom-valve checks—no threads, no hassle Then they turn to the H3 dive computer—a compact OLED unit developed with the Austrian military—covering: Full support for air, nitrox, trimix and CCR so you don't outgrow your computer NFC (near-field communication) logging straight to your phone for instant dive downloads and sharing The roadmap for wireless cylinder pressure and future wireless PO₂ monitoring, all enabled via firmware updates on the same unit If you're a CCR diver, a rebreather-curious OC tech diver, or a cave diver looking for robust electronics and modular life support, this Hammerhead + H3 breakdown is packed with practical, gear-nerd detail. Deep Cave exploration with Brett Hemphill Thu, 04 Jun 2015 23:37:43 +0000 41:15 false full 1. Post beneath the Sea. BTS 2007 post-mortem.2. D.A.N. Tech Time with Richard Vann PhD. 3. Deep Cave Cave exploration interview with Brett Hemphill1. Post beneath the Sea. BTS 2007 post-mortem.2. D.A.N. Tech Time with Richard Vann PhD. 3. Deep Cave Cave exploration interview with Brett Hemphill 330 Feet Down: Brett Hemphill, Weeki Wachee, Twin Dees and the Deepest U.S. Cave Link Wed, 03 Jun 2015 00:31:32 +0000 13:29 false 7 158 full Joseph Cocozza This special archive episode of Pod Diver Radio revisits one of our most memorable conversations — a deep technical sit-down with legendary cave explorer Brett Hemphill, recorded years before he later lost his life on a deep cave exploration dive. Brett walks us through the audacious project to connect Florida's Weeki Wachee Springs and Twin Dees cave systems, in what became the deepest underwater cave connection in the U.S. at roughly 330 feet. Joe opens the show recapping their earlier interview on Weeki Wachee, then Brett picks up the story: why Weeki's violent outflow (160–200 cubic feet per second) makes the "coffee-table–sized" 170-foot entrance almost impossible except in extreme drought, and how those same droughts turned nearby Twin Dees into a dead mud hole… until the rains came back and the spring came alive again. From there, Brett lays out the Twin Dees side of the expedition in classic detail: Dropping into a tiny 30-foot pond and squeezing through a "Superman" chimney starting at 15 feet Reaching a small room at 40 feet where the team built a habitat to stage and don gear Pushing through tight passage to about 1,300 feet before the cave opens up Entering "Middle Earth", a massive underwater chamber "three-quarters the size of the hall at Beneath the Sea" Following "the Tunnel", a passage leveling off around 300 feet on the way toward Weeki Wachee Brett then tells the story of the breakthrough: finding the monitoring well at ~6,300 feet back, 320 feet deep; realizing the connection had to be close; and finally seeing their old Weeki Wachee line appear out of the darkness only 30 feet past where his reel ran out. You'll hear how normally reserved Dr. Andrew Pitkin starts yelling through the helium — the moment they know Twin Dees and Weeki Wachee are one system, 8,000 feet back at 330 feet deep. We also dig into: The brutal logistics (even staging bottles is a 6-hour dive) Why these projects are impossible without a committed support team Sponsors and gear that made it possible (scooters, lights, CCR, reels) How to watch Brett & Andrew's high-def "Barrel and Loop" video section of Twin Dees Why Brett believed there is still unexplored cave and real exploration left in Florida This episode is both a technical masterclass in extreme cave exploration and a tribute to a diver whose work, humility, and curiosity inspired an entire generation of cave and spring divers — from mixed-gas explorers to freedivers drawn to Florida's clear, powerful springs.This special archive episode of Pod Diver Radio revisits one of our most memorable conversations — a deep technical sit-down with legendary cave explorer Brett Hemphill, recorded years before he later lost his life on a deep cave exploration dive. Brett walks us through the audacious project to connect Florida's Weeki Wachee Springs and Twin Dees cave systems, in what became the deepest underwater cave connection in the U.S. at roughly 330 feet. Joe opens the show recapping their earlier interview on Weeki Wachee, then Brett picks up the story: why Weeki's violent outflow (160–200 cubic feet per second) makes the "coffee-table–sized" 170-foot entrance almost impossible except in extreme drought, and how those same droughts turned nearby Twin Dees into a dead mud hole… until the rains came back and the spring came alive again. From there, Brett lays out the Twin Dees side of the expedition in classic detail: Dropping into a tiny 30-foot pond and squeezing through a "Superman" chimney starting at 15 feet Reaching a small room at 40 feet where the team built a habitat to stage and don gear Pushing through tight passage to about 1,300 feet before the cave opens up Entering "Middle Earth", a massive underwater chamber "three-quarters the size of the hall at Beneath the Sea" Following "the Tunnel", a passage leveling off around 300 feet on the way toward Weeki Wachee Brett then tells the story of the breakthrough: finding the monitoring well at ~6,300 feet back, 320 feet deep; realizing the connection had to be close; and finally seeing their old Weeki Wachee line appear out of the darkness only 30 feet past where his reel ran out. You'll hear how normally reserved Dr. Andrew Pitkin starts yelling through the helium — the moment they know Twin Dees and Weeki Wachee are one system, 8,000 feet back at 330 feet deep. We also dig into: The brutal logistics (even staging bottles is a 6-hour dive) Why these projects are impossible without a committed support team Sponsors and gear that made it possible (scooters, lights, CCR, reels) How to watch Brett & Andrew's high-def "Barrel and Loop" video section of Twin Dees Why Brett believed there is still unexplored cave and real exploration left in Florida This episode is both a technical masterclass in extreme cave exploration and a tribute to a diver whose work, humility, and curiosity inspired an entire generation of cave and spring divers — from mixed-gas explorers to freedivers drawn to Florida's clear, powerful springs. Diving the Superfortress Wed, 20 May 2015 02:42:37 +0000 13:58 false full PD156: Diving the B-29 Wreck in Lake Mead. Interview with Joel Silverstein of Tech Diving Ltd about diving the USAF B-29 Superfortress Bomber in Lake Mead. For more info about diving this historic wreck, contact Joel at TDL www.divetheb29.comPD156: Diving the B-29 Wreck in Lake Mead. Interview with Joel Silverstein of Tech Diving Ltd about diving the USAF B-29 Superfortress Bomber in Lake Mead. For more info about diving this historic wreck, contact Joel at TDL www.divetheb29.com Tech Diving and the aging diver. Wed, 06 May 2015 01:29:33 +0000 13:31 false 6 154 full PD154: Dr. Neal Pollock at DAN discusses the issues surrounding aging and technical diving. Dr. Pollock is the Research Director at Divers Alert Network. Also, a Senior Research Associate at the Center for Hyperbaric Medicine at Duke University Medical Center. Also, he is a Board member of the American Academy of Underwater Sciences Foundation.PD154: Dr. Neal Pollock at DAN discusses the issues surrounding aging and technical diving. Dr. Pollock is the Research Director at Divers Alert Network. Also, a Senior Research Associate at the Center for Hyperbaric Medicine at Duke University Medical Center. Also, he is a Board member of the American Academy of Underwater Sciences Foundation. Rebreather Prebreathe Myth-busting with Dr Simon Mitchell Thu, 23 Apr 2015 01:25:00 +0000 14:01 false 6 152 full Joseph Cocozza MSDT In this deep‐dive episode of Pod Diver Radio, host Joe Cocozza sits down at BTS 2015 with Dr Simon Mitchell (University of Auckland anesthesiologist, technical diver, and DAN Rolex Diver of the Year) to dissect his landmark rebreather prebreathe study. Mitchell walks us through the experimental design used with CCR divers on Inspiration units: Three loop conditions — normal scrubber, no scrubber, and a partial scrubber bypass (missing spacer O-ring) Blinded subjects instructed to perform a standard 5-minute prebreathe exactly as on a dive boat Termination criteria based on self-recognized CO₂ toxicity symptoms He then breaks down the results and implications for real-world CCR operations: 25% of divers failed to detect complete scrubber absence during prebreathe 90% failed to detect a partial scrubber failure, despite measured inspired CO₂ ≈ 20 mmHg All divers showed objective hypercapnic responses (increased ventilation, visible distress), but many did not recognize or report symptoms—highlighting how CO₂ narcosis itself impairs judgment Mitchell explains why the traditional 5-minute prebreathe cannot be relied on as a CO₂ scrubber integrity test, why partial failures are especially insidious (tolerable at rest, dangerous under workload), and how this should change the way tech divers think about: Scrubber packing discipline and O-ring checks Checklist-driven CCR assembly The emerging role—and limitations—of CO₂ sensors in rebreather loops Risk management for deep, high-workload CCR dives If you dive a closed-circuit rebreather, teach CCR, or write SOPs for tech operations, this episode is a must-listen, grounded in peer-reviewed data from Diving and Hyperbaric Medicine (March 2015) and explained by one of the leading voices in diving science.In this deep‐dive episode of Pod Diver Radio, host Joe Cocozza sits down at BTS 2015 with Dr Simon Mitchell (University of Auckland anesthesiologist, technical diver, and DAN Rolex Diver of the Year) to dissect his landmark rebreather prebreathe study. Mitchell walks us through the experimental design used with CCR divers on Inspiration units: Three loop conditions — normal scrubber, no scrubber, and a partial scrubber bypass (missing spacer O-ring) Blinded subjects instructed to perform a standard 5-minute prebreathe exactly as on a dive boat Termination criteria based on self-recognized CO₂ toxicity symptoms He then breaks down the results and implications for real-world CCR operations: 25% of divers failed to detect complete scrubber absence during prebreathe 90% failed to detect a partial scrubber failure, despite measured inspired CO₂ ≈ 20 mmHg All divers showed objective hypercapnic responses (increased ventilation, visible distress), but many did not recognize or report symptoms—highlighting how CO₂ narcosis itself impairs judgment Mitchell explains why the traditional 5-minute prebreathe cannot be relied on as a CO₂ scrubber integrity test, why partial failures are especially insidious (tolerable at rest, dangerous under workload), and how this should change the way tech divers think about: Scrubber packing discipline and O-ring checks Checklist-driven CCR assembly The emerging role—and limitations—of CO₂ sensors in rebreather loops Risk management for deep, high-workload CCR dives If you dive a closed-circuit rebreather, teach CCR, or write SOPs for tech operations, this episode is a must-listen, grounded in peer-reviewed data from Diving and Hyperbaric Medicine (March 2015) and explained by one of the leading voices in diving science. Dive Rite 2015 Update Wed, 15 Apr 2015 12:00:00 +0000 12:01 false 6 151 full PD151: DIVE RITE Equipment Update 2015 Jared Hires reviews new equipment for 2015. Including The LX20, a compact, handheld primary light, And..The HunterPac BCD; which combines features of technical and recreational BCD for Spear fishermen and/or Underwater Photographers.PD151: DIVE RITE Equipment Update 2015 Jared Hires reviews new equipment for 2015. Including The LX20, a compact, handheld primary light, And..The HunterPac BCD; which combines features of technical and recreational BCD for Spear fishermen and/or Underwater Photographers. Phantom Deep Cave System Exploration. Fri, 10 Apr 2015 01:53:52 +0000 11:57 false 6 150 full PD150: Interview with Brett Hemphill of Karst Underwater Explorers about setting the cave diving deep/penetration record at The Phantom Cave System in West Texas. http://www.admfoundation.org/projects/phantom/phantomcave.htmlPD150: Interview with Brett Hemphill of Karst Underwater Explorers about setting the cave diving deep/penetration record at The Phantom Cave System in West Texas. http://www.admfoundation.org/projects/phantom/phantomcave.html Thermal Physiology & its effects on Deco Stress, Sun, 05 Apr 2015 01:10:24 +0000 22:46 false 6 149 full PD149: Intrw w/ Dr Neal Pollock: Research Director at Divers Alert Network about Thermal Physiology & effects on Decompression Stress in DivingPD149: Intrw w/ Dr Neal Pollock: Research Director at Divers Alert Network about Thermal Physiology & effects on Decompression Stress in Diving BTS 2015 - Sound Scene Tour Fri, 03 Apr 2015 00:13:41 +0000 17:01 false 5 148 full PD 148: Sound Scene Tour of the Beneath the 2015 Sea Consumer Scuba Expo. Talk with Susan Long at DUI, Joel at Light Monkey and Mike Fowler at SDS.PD 148: Sound Scene Tour of the Beneath the 2015 Sea Consumer Scuba Expo. Talk with Susan Long at DUI, Joel at Light Monkey and Mike Fowler at SDS. Florida Keys History of Diving Museum Sat, 07 Mar 2015 18:59:15 +0000 13:55 false 5 146 full Tour of The History of Diving Museum and Research Library with Angela Albanese. The Museum is dedicated to collecting, preserving, displaying and interpreting artifacts, antiques, books, documents, photographs and oral history relative to the History of Diving.Tour of The History of Diving Museum and Research Library with Angela Albanese. The Museum is dedicated to collecting, preserving, displaying and interpreting artifacts, antiques, books, documents, photographs and oral history relative to the History of Diving. Underwater Communications at the NEAQ Sat, 21 Feb 2015 23:54:02 +0000 27:51 false 5 144 full PD144 discussion of: Underwater communications at the New England Aquarium. I interview John Hanzl, the DSO (Dive Safety Officer) about the underwater comm system at the New England Aquarium (NEAQ) Mr. Hanzl is not only a DSO he is also an experienced Broadcast Engineer and he brings these skills sets in setting up the comm system the Aquarium's "Giant Ocean Tank". #poddiver #NEAQ #podcast #OutofHellsKitchen #aquaman DOWNLOAD AUDIO FILE HEREPD144 discussion of: Underwater communications at the New England Aquarium. I interview John Hanzl, the DSO (Dive Safety Officer) about the underwater comm system at the New England Aquarium (NEAQ) Mr. Hanzl is not only a DSO he is also an experienced Broadcast Engineer and he brings these skills sets in setting up the comm system the Aquarium's "Giant Ocean Tank". #poddiver #NEAQ #podcast #OutofHellsKitchen #aquaman DOWNLOAD AUDIO FILE HERE Underwater Fluorescence Thu, 05 Feb 2015 03:20:12 +0000 31:44 false full PD143 Interview with Charles Mazel, PhD about the technolgy and develpoment of underwater florescence. And the applications of florescence for diving, bio-tech and marine biology. For addl info: goto NIGHTSEA DIRECT DOWNLOAD HEREPD143 Interview with Charles Mazel, PhD about the technolgy and develpoment of underwater florescence. And the applications of florescence for diving, bio-tech and marine biology. For addl info: goto NIGHTSEA DIRECT DOWNLOAD HERE SST Andrea Doria Mon, 26 Jan 2015 05:30:40 +0000 13:40 false full PD142: Sound Scene Tour of a 2001 expedition to the Andrea Doria onboard the RV SEEKER. Gart Gentile goes over deck plans between dives and discusses how the wreck is starting to collapse. DIRECT DOWNLOAD HEREPD142: Sound Scene Tour of a 2001 expedition to the Andrea Doria onboard the RV SEEKER. Gart Gentile goes over deck plans between dives and discusses how the wreck is starting to collapse. DIRECT DOWNLOAD HERE Richie Kohler interview Fri, 26 Dec 2014 04:00:00 +0000 29:39 false full PD140: Richie Kohler interview. We discuss U-Boats, diving the RMS Titanic, HID lighting, cave diving, rebreathers and shipwreck diving.PD140: Richie Kohler interview. We discuss U-Boats, diving the RMS Titanic, HID lighting, cave diving, rebreathers and shipwreck diving. GAS MANANGMENT FOR CAVE DIVING Thu, 18 Dec 2014 04:00:00 +0000 19:24 false full PD137: NSS-CDS Instructor Ralph DiPanfelo dicusses how to figure out gas managment for cave diving. DOWNLOAD AND LISTEN TO AUDIO HEREPD137: NSS-CDS Instructor Ralph DiPanfelo dicusses how to figure out gas managment for cave diving. DOWNLOAD AND LISTEN TO AUDIO HERE Underwater Photography Tue, 16 Dec 2014 19:00:00 +0000 11:49 false full PD136: Digital Underwater Photography. PADI Specialty of the Month: Digital Underwater Photography . Interview with PADI MSDT Bob Benson at DOSILs Ski&Scuba CenterPD136: Digital Underwater Photography. PADI Specialty of the Month: Digital Underwater Photography . Interview with PADI MSDT Bob Benson at DOSILs Ski&Scuba Center Oxygen Toxcity Sun, 14 Dec 2014 01:00:00 +0000 12:06 false full PD135: Dr Richard Vann of DAN (Diver Alert Network) discusses O2 toxicity and oxygen's effect on the diver at depth. LISTEN TO AUDIO NOW Get email notifications of new Pod Diver Episodes Subscribe to Pod Diver Radio on your Android Device Subscribe to Pod Diver Radio on your iPhone or iPad.PD135: Dr Richard Vann of DAN (Diver Alert Network) discusses O2 toxicity and oxygen's effect on the diver at depth. LISTEN TO AUDIO NOW Get email notifications of new Pod Diver Episodes Subscribe to Pod Diver Radio on your Android Device Subscribe to Pod Diver Radio on your iPhone or iPad. TRIMIX Fri, 12 Dec 2014 17:00:00 +0000 23:09 false full PD134: TDI TRIMIX TRAINING, Interview with Brian Carney of TDI-SDI. Brian discusses the benifits and hazards of using Trimix.PD134: TDI TRIMIX TRAINING, Interview with Brian Carney of TDI-SDI. Brian discusses the benifits and hazards of using Trimix. AZORES: DEMA 2014 Interview Wed, 03 Dec 2014 00:30:45 +0000 10:46 false full PD131: DEMA 2014: Diving in the AZORESInterview at AZORES Tourism Booth about scuba diving on Sao Miguel Island. DOWNLOAD AUDIO Links: www.visitazores.com http://www.azoressub.com/POD DIVER RADIO: wants to thank Tom Shear and Assemblage 23 for permission to use their music in POD DIVER RADIO and POD DIVER TV. If you like the Assemblage 23 bumper music check out; http://www.assemblage23.comPD131: DEMA 2014: Diving in the AZORESInterview at AZORES Tourism Booth about scuba diving on Sao Miguel Island. DOWNLOAD AUDIO Links: www.visitazores.com http://www.azoressub.com/POD DIVER RADIO: wants to thank Tom Shear and Assemblage 23 for permission to use their music in POD DIVER RADIO and POD DIVER TV. If you like the Assemblage 23 bumper music check out; http://www.assemblage23.com DEMA 2014 Sun, 30 Nov 2014 00:22:33 +0000 38:36 false full DEMA 2014: Sound Scene Tour PD130: Time Code:00:48- Show Intro01:32- Underwater Imaging Center04:30- Light Monkey07:05- Dive Travel07:45- OEM and Scuba Tools08:30- AP Diving and Silent Diving Systems10:00- Back Asile Booths11:28- TDI/SDI12:45- TDI training on the HOLLIS Explorer14:30- Pete at OMS16:33- Kirk Krack and Waterborn21:25- Genisis DPV with John N24:13- OTS28:48- Captain Gary DOWNLOAD AUDIO HERE TDI Training on the HOLLIS Rebreather ~ https://www.tdisdi.com/ Waterborne Demo Video ~ http://youtu.be/MHNtVbvqHjQ The Genesis DPV (Scooter) ~ http://www.logicdivegear.com/ POD DIVER RADIO: wants to thank Tom Shear and Assemblage 23 for permission to use their music in POD DIVER RADIO and POD DIVER TV. If you like the Assemblage 23 bumper music check out; http://www.assemblage23.comDEMA 2014: Sound Scene Tour PD130: Time Code:00:48- Show Intro01:32- Underwater Imaging Center04:30- Light Monkey07:05- Dive Travel07:45- OEM and Scuba Tools08:30- AP Diving and Silent Diving Systems10:00- Back Asile Booths11:28- TDI/SDI12:45- TDI training on the HOLLIS Explorer14:30- Pete at OMS16:33- Kirk Krack and Waterborn21:25- Genisis DPV with John N24:13- OTS28:48- Captain Gary DOWNLOAD AUDIO HERE TDI Training on the HOLLIS Rebreather ~ https://www.tdisdi.com/ Waterborne Demo Video ~ http://youtu.be/MHNtVbvqHjQ The Genesis DPV (Scooter) ~ http://www.logicdivegear.com/ POD DIVER RADIO: wants to thank Tom Shear and Assemblage 23 for permission to use their music in POD DIVER RADIO and POD DIVER TV. If you like the Assemblage 23 bumper music check out; http://www.assemblage23.com GUE Fundamentals Demystified with Bob Sherwood at Dutch Springs Sat, 02 Aug 2014 16:00:00 +0000 29:18 false 6 129 full Joseph Cocozza On this special GUE-focused episode of Pod Diver Radio, we head to a chilly Dutch Springs Quarry to sit down with Global Underwater Explorers training director Bob Sherwood and take a deep look at GUE Fundamentals—"Fundies"—from the inside. Bob explains what GUE really is as an organization, how the Fundamentals course functions as the gateway into the system, and why there are two performance levels within a single curriculum (recreational vs technical pass). He breaks down the 1–5 grading scale, what it actually takes to earn a rec or tech pass, and how the provisional outcome works in practice for divers who need a bit more time on the tools. We walk through the core skill set of a Fundies class: buoyancy and trim windows, regulator and long-hose drills, valve drills in singles and doubles, team gas sharing and ascent procedures, propulsion techniques (frog, modified frog, helicopter turns and that elusive back kick), as well as the standardized backplate/wing and long-hose configuration that underpins GUE training. Bob also talks philosophy: risk vs benefit in mission-oriented dives, why GUE keeps standards and procedures consistent from rec through cave and tech, and how team diving, fitness, and honest evaluation all tie together. If you're a current GUE diver, Fundies-curious, or just a skills-focused tech diver, this episode is a detailed, no-BS listen into how GUE thinks and trains.On this special GUE-focused episode of Pod Diver Radio, we head to a chilly Dutch Springs Quarry to sit down with Global Underwater Explorers training director Bob Sherwood and take a deep look at GUE Fundamentals—"Fundies"—from the inside. Bob explains what GUE really is as an organization, how the Fundamentals course functions as the gateway into the system, and why there are two performance levels within a single curriculum (recreational vs technical pass). He breaks down the 1–5 grading scale, what it actually takes to earn a rec or tech pass, and how the provisional outcome works in practice for divers who need a bit more time on the tools. We walk through the core skill set of a Fundies class: buoyancy and trim windows, regulator and long-hose drills, valve drills in singles and doubles, team gas sharing and ascent procedures, propulsion techniques (frog, modified frog, helicopter turns and that elusive back kick), as well as the standardized backplate/wing and long-hose configuration that underpins GUE training. Bob also talks philosophy: risk vs benefit in mission-oriented dives, why GUE keeps standards and procedures consistent from rec through cave and tech, and how team diving, fitness, and honest evaluation all tie together. If you're a current GUE diver, Fundies-curious, or just a skills-focused tech diver, this episode is a detailed, no-BS listen into how GUE thinks and trains. MAG-11: JARED HIRES Tue, 03 Dec 2013 02:17:49 +0000 false full DIVE MAGAZINE UK December 2013 :INTERVIEW WITH Jared Hires of DIVE RITEDIVE MAGAZINE UK December 2013 :INTERVIEW WITH Jared Hires of DIVE RITE MAG-10: TECH PROFILE: BRIAN KAKUK Sat, 05 Oct 2013 10:47:56 +0000 false full DIVE MAGAZINE October 2013 : INTERVIEW WITH BRIAN KAKUK: Military Diver, Scientific Diver, Cave Diver, Explorer, Instructor, Author and Movie Maker. Underwater, Brian has done it all.DIVE MAGAZINE October 2013 : INTERVIEW WITH BRIAN KAKUK: Military Diver, Scientific Diver, Cave Diver, Explorer, Instructor, Author and Movie Maker. Underwater, Brian has done it all. MAG-09: JEFF BOZANIC Wed, 31 Jul 2013 23:26:42 +0000 false full DIVE MAGAZINE UK August 2013: JEFF BOZANIC From under Antarctica's ice, to some of the deepest caves in Mexico, Jeff Bozanic has explored it all. But his dives have always had a purpose: pushing his scientific knowledge and our understanding of these worlds.DIVE MAGAZINE UK August 2013: JEFF BOZANIC From under Antarctica's ice, to some of the deepest caves in Mexico, Jeff Bozanic has explored it all. But his dives have always had a purpose: pushing his scientific knowledge and our understanding of these worlds. MAG-08: DIVING ST CROIX Tue, 18 Jun 2013 02:14:59 +0000 false full DIVE MAGAZINE UK April 2013: Diving St X: DIVING ST CROIX in the USVI. The most versatile diving location in the Caribbean is the US Virgin Island of St. Croix. Whether it is easy reef or deep technical dives. St Croix is the place to be, and the best shop on the island is S.C.U.B.A. St Croix Ultimate Bluewater Adventures and the best hotel on the island is The Buccaneer www.thebuccaneer.com READ ARTICLE HEREDIVE MAGAZINE UK April 2013: Diving St X: DIVING ST CROIX in the USVI. The most versatile diving location in the Caribbean is the US Virgin Island of St. Croix. Whether it is easy reef or deep technical dives. St Croix is the place to be, and the best shop on the island is S.C.U.B.A. St Croix Ultimate Bluewater Adventures and the best hotel on the island is The Buccaneer www.thebuccaneer.com READ ARTICLE HERE MAG-07: MARTYN FARR Sat, 01 Jun 2013 15:26:27 +0000 false full DIVE MAGAZINE UK June 2013: Interview with British Cave Dive Pioneer Martyn Farr. FARR INTO DARKNESS. In 40 years of cave diving, he's broken records and written the rule book. British caver Martyn Farr speaks to DIVE Magazine's Tech Diving guru: Joe Cocozza READ ARTICLE HEREDIVE MAGAZINE UK June 2013: Interview with British Cave Dive Pioneer Martyn Farr. FARR INTO DARKNESS. In 40 years of cave diving, he's broken records and written the rule book. British caver Martyn Farr speaks to DIVE Magazine's Tech Diving guru: Joe Cocozza READ ARTICLE HERE MAG-06: ProTec Dive in Mexico Wed, 20 Feb 2013 01:04:32 +0000 false full DIVE MAGAZINE UK Dec 2012 : Andreas Matthes: Tech Diving Educator and Owner of Protec Dive Center in Playa del Carmen Mexico. READ ARTICLE HEREDIVE MAGAZINE UK Dec 2012 : Andreas Matthes: Tech Diving Educator and Owner of Protec Dive Center in Playa del Carmen Mexico. READ ARTICLE HERE MAG-05: NEDU, The Naval Expermental Dive Unit. Tue, 05 Feb 2013 02:20:20 +0000 false full NEDU: Naval Expermental Dive Unit. Copyright Joseph Cocozza: IMMERSED MAGAZINE (Spring 1998) Naval Force Propels Diving Technology: The NEDU and it's role in developing and testing new diving technolgy. READ ARTICLE HERENEDU: Naval Expermental Dive Unit. Copyright Joseph Cocozza: IMMERSED MAGAZINE (Spring 1998) Naval Force Propels Diving Technology: The NEDU and it's role in developing and testing new diving technolgy. READ ARTICLE HERE MAG-04: BECKY KAGAN SCHOTT- Tech Profile Sat, 02 Feb 2013 04:10:00 +0000 false full DIVE UK Magazine UK. Feb 2013. Becky Kagan Schott: tech diver, cave diver, underwater film maker and journalist. READ ARTICLE HEREDIVE UK Magazine UK. Feb 2013. Becky Kagan Schott: tech diver, cave diver, underwater film maker and journalist. READ ARTICLE HERE MAG-03: Jill Heinerth Fri, 03 Aug 2012 00:16:58 +0000 false full DIVE Magazine UK. March 2012. "Tech Profile" interview with Jill Heinerth. Interview by Joe Cocozza READ ARTICLE HEREDIVE Magazine UK. March 2012. "Tech Profile" interview with Jill Heinerth. Interview by Joe Cocozza READ ARTICLE HERE MAG-02: Rich Kohler Thu, 02 Aug 2012 22:09:00 +0000 false full DIVE MAGAZINE UK May 2012: Interview with Rich Kohler by Joe Cocozza. READ ARTICLE HEREDIVE MAGAZINE UK May 2012: Interview with Rich Kohler by Joe Cocozza. READ ARTICLE HERE MAG-01: Cristina Zenato Tue, 31 Jul 2012 15:35:00 +0000 false full DIVE Magazine UK. August 2012. Technical Diver Profile of technical diving instructor, cave diver and shark diver Cristina Zenato. Cristina is based in the Bahamas at UNEXSO.DIVE Magazine UK. August 2012. Technical Diver Profile of technical diving instructor, cave diver and shark diver Cristina Zenato. Cristina is based in the Bahamas at UNEXSO. Deep Walls & Bluewater Tech: St. Croix on Trimix Sun, 15 Apr 2012 16:00:00 +0000 30:01 false 6 128 full Joseph Cocozza In this episode, Joe sits down with Dive Rite's Mike Ingle to talk serious Caribbean tech: rebreathers in warm blue water, Dive Rite's RX10 can light, and how USVI operations are stepping up to support advanced divers. St. Croix is a laid-back island sitting on the edge of serious depth. The island drops into the Puerto Rico Trench, so right off the beach you've got real blue-water tech profiles—perfect for trimix and CCR. North Shore Wall & Salt River Canyon The North Shore wall starts in recreational depths and then just vanishes into deep blue. Salt River Canyon is the showpiece: a ~300 ft / 90 m trench where tech teams have taken the canyon all the way to the bottom and seen both walls meet. Ideal for: Advanced Nitrox / Deco / Trimix / CCR Progressive series (130 / 160 / 200+ ft) all on the same wall Long deco hangs in warm, clear water with a vertical reef as your backdrop Reefs, Wrecks & the Pier North side: stepped ridges and mini-walls for 150–170 ft normoxic dives or long CCR fun runs in the 80–100 ft range. West side: Frederiksted Pier – shallow, easy place for CCR shakedowns, skills, and long O2/50% hangs. Nearby wrecks in rec to light-tech depths for extended runtimes or clean, compact deco profiles. Why It Works for Tech Divers Depth on demand with a massive trench right offshore Operator culture that understands sidemount, trimix, CCR, and staged deco Warm water + good viz = easier planning, friendlier deco, and more bottom time One small Caribbean island where you can do: deep walls, real trimix, lazy CCR reef cruises, and pier night dives—all in a single trip.In this episode, Joe sits down with Dive Rite's Mike Ingle to talk serious Caribbean tech: rebreathers in warm blue water, Dive Rite's RX10 can light, and how USVI operations are stepping up to support advanced divers. St. Croix is a laid-back island sitting on the edge of serious depth. The island drops into the Puerto Rico Trench, so right off the beach you've got real blue-water tech profiles—perfect for trimix and CCR. North Shore Wall & Salt River Canyon The North Shore wall starts in recreational depths and then just vanishes into deep blue. Salt River Canyon is the showpiece: a ~300 ft / 90 m trench where tech teams have taken the canyon all the way to the bottom and seen both walls meet. Ideal for: Advanced Nitrox / Deco / Trimix / CCR Progressive series (130 / 160 / 200+ ft) all on the same wall Long deco hangs in warm, clear water with a vertical reef as your backdrop Reefs, Wrecks & the Pier North side: stepped ridges and mini-walls for 150–170 ft normoxic dives or long CCR fun runs in the 80–100 ft range. West side: Frederiksted Pier – shallow, easy place for CCR shakedowns, skills, and long O2/50% hangs. Nearby wrecks in rec to light-tech depths for extended runtimes or clean, compact deco profiles. Why It Works for Tech Divers Depth on demand with a massive trench right offshore Operator culture that understands sidemount, trimix, CCR, and staged deco Warm water + good viz = easier planning, friendlier deco, and more bottom time One small Caribbean island where you can do: deep walls, real trimix, lazy CCR reef cruises, and pier night dives—all in a single trip. US Virgin Island Tech Diving Sat, 14 Apr 2012 14:06:58 +0000 11:31 false 4 126 full PD126: St. Croix, USVI Tech Diving. Interview with Ed Buckley of SCUBA St Croix Ultimate Bluewater Adventures. Ed talks about the amazing tech diving in St Croix, when deep just isn't deep enough. For more info about the Friendliest Dive Shop on Earth check out http://www.stcroixscuba.com. DOWNLOAD AUDIOPD126: St. Croix, USVI Tech Diving. Interview with Ed Buckley of SCUBA St Croix Ultimate Bluewater Adventures. Ed talks about the amazing tech diving in St Croix, when deep just isn't deep enough. For more info about the Friendliest Dive Shop on Earth check out http://www.stcroixscuba.com. DOWNLOAD AUDIO Dan Orr President of Divers Alert Network Mon, 26 Mar 2012 14:29:00 +0000 11:20 false 4 125 full Interview with Dan Orr, President of Divers Alert Network. Dan Orr, discusses Rebreather Forum 3 and what is the future of rebreathers.Interview with Dan Orr, President of Divers Alert Network. Dan Orr, discusses Rebreather Forum 3 and what is the future of rebreathers. Dr Vann of DAN Mon, 13 Feb 2012 13:44:00 +0000 18:06 false 4 123 full Interview with Dr Richard Vann of Divers Alert Network. Dr Vann discusses rebreathers and Rebreather Forurm 3.Interview with Dr Richard Vann of Divers Alert Network. Dr Vann discusses rebreathers and Rebreather Forurm 3. Rich Kohler Interview and INNERSPACE preview Wed, 01 Feb 2012 00:38:00 +0000 26:07 false 4 122 full (DiveTech's "Inner Space" and Rich Kolher Interview) A Block: We interview Nancy Easterbrook from DIVETECH in Grand Cayman and she tells us about the upcoming Inner Space event for CCR divers B Block: Rich Kolher gives us a preview of his presentation for Rebreather Forum 3. "Failure is not an Option" ** Subscribe Free: www.poddiver.net ** Subscribe Free: http://poddiver.libsyn.com/rss ** Joe's Facebook Page: www.facebook.com/poddiver(DiveTech's "Inner Space" and Rich Kolher Interview) A Block: We interview Nancy Easterbrook from DIVETECH in Grand Cayman and she tells us about the upcoming Inner Space event for CCR divers B Block: Rich Kolher gives us a preview of his presentation for Rebreather Forum 3. "Failure is not an Option" ** Subscribe Free: www.poddiver.net ** Subscribe Free: http://poddiver.libsyn.com/rss ** Joe's Facebook Page: www.facebook.com/poddiver From Tec 40 to Type T: How Rebreathers Are Redefining Technical Diving Mon, 19 Dec 2011 05:05:00 +0000 17:00 false 5 120 full Joseph Cocozza: PADI MSDT In this episode of Pod Diver Radio, Joe Cocozza sits down with PADI's Technical Development Executive, Karl Shreeves, for a deep dive into the world of rebreathers and technical training. They break down the difference between Type R (recreational) and Type T (technical) CCR units, how PADI structures its Rebreather / Advanced Rebreather and TEC 40/60/100 CCR courses, and why today's rebreather landscape demands a new way of thinking about training, risk, and standardization. Karl explains how PADI, DAN, RESA, and AAUS intersect on rebreather standards, what "acceptable risk" means for tech divers versus recreational divers, and why so many divers are now jumping directly into CCR as their entry into technical diving. Then the conversation turns to Rebreather Forum 3 in Orlando—what it is, who will be there, how the workshops work, and why this kind of global meeting of engineers, instructors, agencies, researchers, and military users shapes the next decade of technical diving. If you're a CCR diver, aspiring tech diver, or open-circuit wreck/cave diver thinking about rebreathers, this episode gives you a front-row seat to how the industry thinks about the future of mixed-gas and closed-circuit diving. Tags (for tech diver discovery): technical diving, rebreathers, CCR diving, PADI TecRec, decompression diving, DAN Divers Alert Network, cave & wreck diving, mixed gas diving 0In this episode of Pod Diver Radio, Joe Cocozza sits down with PADI's Technical Development Executive, Karl Shreeves, for a deep dive into the world of rebreathers and technical training. They break down the difference between Type R (recreational) and Type T (technical) CCR units, how PADI structures its Rebreather / Advanced Rebreather and TEC 40/60/100 CCR courses, and why today's rebreather landscape demands a new way of thinking about training, risk, and standardization. Karl explains how PADI, DAN, RESA, and AAUS intersect on rebreather standards, what "acceptable risk" means for tech divers versus recreational divers, and why so many divers are now jumping directly into CCR as their entry into technical diving. Then the conversation turns to Rebreather Forum 3 in Orlando—what it is, who will be there, how the workshops work, and why this kind of global meeting of engineers, instructors, agencies, researchers, and military users shapes the next decade of technical diving. If you're a CCR diver, aspiring tech diver, or open-circuit wreck/cave diver thinking about rebreathers, this episode gives you a front-row seat to how the industry thinks about the future of mixed-gas and closed-circuit diving. Tags (for tech diver discovery): technical diving, rebreathers, CCR diving, PADI TecRec, decompression diving, DAN Divers Alert Network, cave & wreck diving, mixed gas diving 0 Leon Scamahorn Interview Tue, 15 Nov 2011 16:00:00 +0000 17:32 false 4 118 full Interview with Leon Scamahorn of Innerspace Systems, maker of the Megalodon CCR.Interview with Leon Scamahorn of Innerspace Systems, maker of the Megalodon CCR. Okinawa Wreck Diving Thu, 10 Nov 2011 02:48:00 +0000 12:01 false 4 117 full PD117 Interview w/Doug Bennett from REEF Encounters in Okinawa Japan. Discussing wreck diving and search for new shipwrecks.PD117 Interview w/Doug Bennett from REEF Encounters in Okinawa Japan. Discussing wreck diving and search for new shipwrecks. Rebreather Forum 3 Tue, 08 Nov 2011 11:02:00 +0000 16:01 false 4 116 full Report from DEMA 2011 about Rebreather Forum 3.0. Interview with Roz Lunn and Brian Caney. For more info : www.rf30.org ** Subscribe Free: www.poddiver.net ** Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/poddiverradioReport from DEMA 2011 about Rebreather Forum 3.0. Interview with Roz Lunn and Brian Caney. For more info : www.rf30.org ** Subscribe Free: www.poddiver.net ** Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/poddiverradio BTS 2011 Sound Scene Tour Tue, 29 Mar 2011 01:29:00 +0000 45:45 false 4 115 full Beneath the Sea 2011 Sound Scene Tour.Interviews with DUI. Shark Research Institute, Dr Nic Bird at DAN and Seabase 1. Featuring dive travel to the 1000 Islands, Adventure Travel, SingleDivers dot com.Beneath the Sea 2011 Sound Scene Tour.Interviews with DUI. Shark Research Institute, Dr Nic Bird at DAN and Seabase 1. Featuring dive travel to the 1000 Islands, Adventure Travel, SingleDivers dot com. Sharks, Dive Lights & DAN Data: New England Aquarium, & Fatality Risk Sat, 12 Mar 2011 17:39:00 +0000 00 false 5 114 full Joseph Cocozza In this episode of Pod Diver Radio, we head to a snowy Boston, Massachusetts to splash into the Giant Ocean Tank at the New England Aquarium. Dive Safety Officer John Hanzel takes us behind the scenes of this 200,000-gallon Caribbean reef exhibit—home to sand tiger sharks, green morays, and the legendary Myrtle the turtle. We talk about how the system is plumbed from Boston Harbor, how the fish are hand-fed underwater, and what it's like to be "on display" as a public-aquarium diver. Then we jump to the DEMA show floor to talk with Randy Klein Gross of Titan Dive Gear about modular dive light systems. Randy explains their Hydro Lights, self-contained vs canister setups, burn times, LEDs for tech and cave divers, and how the same battery packs can power both primaries and video lights. Finally, we sit down at DAN HQ in Durham, North Carolina with Dr. Petar Denoble to unpack a major Divers Alert Network study on deaths in diving. We dig into real root causes: gas management and emergency ascents, arterial gas embolism, entanglement, buoyancy issues, and the growing role of cardiac events in older divers. Dr. Denoble shares practical takeaways on fitness, annual medicals, refresher training, and why skill maintenance matters just as much as new gear.In this episode of Pod Diver Radio, we head to a snowy Boston, Massachusetts to splash into the Giant Ocean Tank at the New England Aquarium. Dive Safety Officer John Hanzel takes us behind the scenes of this 200,000-gallon Caribbean reef exhibit—home to sand tiger sharks, green morays, and the legendary Myrtle the turtle. We talk about how the system is plumbed from Boston Harbor, how the fish are hand-fed underwater, and what it's like to be "on display" as a public-aquarium diver. Then we jump to the DEMA show floor to talk with Randy Klein Gross of Titan Dive Gear about modular dive light systems. Randy explains their Hydro Lights, self-contained vs canister setups, burn times, LEDs for tech and cave divers, and how the same battery packs can power both primaries and video lights. Finally, we sit down at DAN HQ in Durham, North Carolina with Dr. Petar Denoble to unpack a major Divers Alert Network study on deaths in diving. We dig into real root causes: gas management and emergency ascents, arterial gas embolism, entanglement, buoyancy issues, and the growing role of cardiac events in older divers. Dr. Denoble shares practical takeaways on fitness, annual medicals, refresher training, and why skill maintenance matters just as much as new gear. PFOs, Bubbles & Bailouts: Inside Tech Diving Risk Management Thu, 10 Jun 2010 20:50:00 +0000 01:02:48 false 5 110 full Joseph Cocozza In this extended episode of Pod Diver Radio, Joe is back from a few weeks in North Florida cave country and brings a full load of tech-diving insight, gear geekery, and medical intel. First up, cardiologist, cave diver, and CCR instructor Dr. Douglas Ebersole breaks down PFOs (patent foramen ovale) and what they really mean for technical and rebreather divers. Who should get tested, when closure is actually considered, and how his ongoing study with Divers Alert Network is trying to answer the "close it or change your diving?" question. Then we head to Beneath the Sea with Mike Fowler of Silent Diving for a deep gear dive into the latest CCR toys: the Tech Travel Frame that lets you bolt almost any cylinders to your Evolution/Inspiration, the open-circuit bailout mouthpiece (OCB) for cleaner bailout procedures, and the DiveStore dongle with matching decompression / bailout planning software. We wrap with an inside look at Divers Alert Network HQ as Brian Harper walks Joe through what actually happens when you call the DAN emergency hotline with suspected DCS. From the first questions they ask, to how they talk to chambers and ER doctors, to why denial and stigma still keep divers from picking up the phone—this segment alone might change how you think about "getting bent." Along the way Joe checks in from Ginnie Springs and cave country, talks NSDS conference, and shares news from Wayne at Amigos Dive Center, now a distributor for Green Force lighting systems. If you're a tech diver running caves, CCR, or deep wreck profiles, this episode hits the intersection of risk, medical reality, and serious gear. DAN's medical staff is on call 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, to handle diving emergencies such as decompression sickness, arterial gas embolism, pulmonary barotrauma, or other serious diving-related injuries. When you call the DAN Emergency Hotline 919-684-9111:In this extended episode of Pod Diver Radio, Joe is back from a few weeks in North Florida cave country and brings a full load of tech-diving insight, gear geekery, and medical intel. First up, cardiologist, cave diver, and CCR instructor Dr. Douglas Ebersole breaks down PFOs (patent foramen ovale) and what they really mean for technical and rebreather divers. Who should get tested, when closure is actually considered, and how his ongoing study with Divers Alert Network is trying to answer the "close it or change your diving?" question. Then we head to Beneath the Sea with Mike Fowler of Silent Diving for a deep gear dive into the latest CCR toys: the Tech Travel Frame that lets you bolt almost any cylinders to your Evolution/Inspiration, the open-circuit bailout mouthpiece (OCB) for cleaner bailout procedures, and the DiveStore dongle with matching decompression / bailout planning software. We wrap with an inside look at Divers Alert Network HQ as Brian Harper walks Joe through what actually happens when you call the DAN emergency hotline with suspected DCS. From the first questions they ask, to how they talk to chambers and ER doctors, to why denial and stigma still keep divers from picking up the phone—this segment alone might change how you think about "getting bent." Along the way Joe checks in from Ginnie Springs and cave country, talks NSDS conference, and shares news from Wayne at Amigos Dive Center, now a distributor for Green Force lighting systems. If you're a tech diver running caves, CCR, or deep wreck profiles, this episode hits the intersection of risk, medical reality, and serious gear. DAN's medical staff is on call 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, to handle diving emergencies such as decompression sickness, arterial gas embolism, pulmonary barotrauma, or other serious diving-related injuries. When you call the DAN Emergency Hotline 919-684-9111: BTS 2010 Sound Scene Tour Thu, 01 Apr 2010 16:33:00 +0000 55:47 false 3 107 full Beneath the Sea 2010 Sound Scene Tour http://www.myspace.com/ottosnyc http://www.beneaththesea.org/ http://www.mantaind.com/ http://www.stcroixscuba.com/ http://www.edba.com/ http://njhda.org/ http://www.conchrepublicdivers.com/ http://www.lubricationtechnology.com/sitemap.htm http://www.epa.gov/bold/schedule.html http://www.trukodyssey.com/Beneath the Sea 2010 Sound Scene Tour http://www.myspace.com/ottosnyc http://www.beneaththesea.org/ http://www.mantaind.com/ http://www.stcroixscuba.com/ http://www.edba.com/ http://njhda.org/ http://www.conchrepublicdivers.com/ http://www.lubricationtechnology.com/sitemap.htm http://www.epa.gov/bold/schedule.html http://www.trukodyssey.com/ NSS-CDS Workshop & Coral Reef Restoration Thu, 25 Mar 2010 17:22:00 +0000 Normal 0 0 1 300 1713 Rutgers Scuba 14 3 2103 11.0 PD106: SEGEMENT 1 Annual NSS-CDS Workshop: "2010: an Innerspace Odyssey" May 21-23, 2010…. Otter Springs, Florida SEGMENT 2: Interview with Dr. Thomas J. Goreau about Coral Reef Restoration and the use of BioRock Dr. Goreau is the President of the Global Coral Reef Alliance. The GCRA is a coalition of volunteer scientists, divers, environmentalists and other individuals and organizations, committed to coral reef preservation. Global Coral Reef Alliance 37 Pleasant Street, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02139, USA ]]> Normal 0 0 1 300 1713 Rutgers Scuba 14 3 2103 11.0 PD106: SEGEMENT 1 Annual NSS-CDS Workshop: "2010: an Innerspace Odyssey" May 21-23, 2010…. Otter Springs, Florida SEGMENT 2: Interview with Dr. Thomas J. Goreau about Coral Reef Restoration and the use of BioRock Dr. Goreau is the President of the Global Coral Reef Alliance. The GCRA is a coalition of volunteer scientists, divers, environmentalists and other individuals and organizations, committed to coral reef preservation. Global Coral Reef Alliance 37 Pleasant Street, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02139, USA ]]> 46:06 false 3 106 full Normal 0 0 1 300 1713 Rutgers Scuba 14 3 2103 11.0 PD106: SEGEMENT 1 Annual NSS-CDS Workshop: "2010: an Innerspace Odyssey" May 21-23, 2010…. Otter Springs, Florida SEGMENT 2: Interview with Dr. Thomas J. Goreau about Coral Reef Restoration and the use of BioRock Dr. Goreau is the President of the Global Coral Reef Alliance. The GCRA is a coalition of volunteer scientists, divers, environmentalists and other individuals and organizations, committed to coral reef preservation. Global Coral Reef Alliance 37 Pleasant Street, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02139, USANormal 0 0 1 300 1713 Rutgers Scuba 14 3 2103 11.0 PD106: SEGEMENT 1 Annual NSS-CDS Workshop: "2010: an Innerspace Odyssey" May 21-23, 2010…. Otter Springs, Florida SEGMENT 2: Interview with Dr. Thomas J. Goreau about Coral Reef Restoration and the use of BioRock Dr. Goreau is the President of the Global Coral Reef Alliance. The GCRA is a coalition of volunteer scientists, divers, environmentalists and other individuals and organizations, committed to coral reef preservation. Global Coral Reef Alliance 37 Pleasant Street, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02139, USA BOAT DIVING ETIQUETTE Fri, 26 Feb 2010 20:29:00 +0000 27:19 false 3 104 full PD104: Interview with Capt. Al Pyatak. He is the Captain and owner of the dive boat SEA LION. Al Pyatak is the holder of a USCG 100 Ton Near Coastal Masters License with Aux Sail and Commercial Towing endorsements. He IANTD and TDI Technical Nitrox Instructor, Tri-Mix Instructor, NACD Full Cave Certified, NSS/CDS Full Cave Certified, Mixed Gas Diver since 1989 and holder of IANTD Tri-Mix Diver certification #1.PD104: Interview with Capt. Al Pyatak. He is the Captain and owner of the dive boat SEA LION. Al Pyatak is the holder of a USCG 100 Ton Near Coastal Masters License with Aux Sail and Commercial Towing endorsements. He IANTD and TDI Technical Nitrox Instructor, Tri-Mix Instructor, NACD Full Cave Certified, NSS/CDS Full Cave Certified, Mixed Gas Diver since 1989 and holder of IANTD Tri-Mix Diver certification #1. PD102: Survival at Sea and Diving in Truk Wed, 27 Jan 2010 03:17:00 +0000 41:58 false 102 full SEGMENT 1: Life Raft Survival & Rescue at Sea: Interview with Charles Daneko of WINSLOW® LifeRaft Company SEGMENT 2: Diving on the Wrecks of Truk Lagoon with Captain Mike Gerkin:SEGMENT 1: Life Raft Survival & Rescue at Sea: Interview with Charles Daneko of WINSLOW® LifeRaft Company SEGMENT 2: Diving on the Wrecks of Truk Lagoon with Captain Mike Gerkin: P83: DEMA 2007 interviews Sun, 10 Jan 2010 17:00:00 +0000 24:18 false 3 83 full PD83: Martin Stepanek Free diving champion and instructor talks about his work with Oceana. Interview with ND-1 J.R. Hott USN (NEDU) about the US Navy Diving program. DOWNLOAD AUDIO HEREPD83: Martin Stepanek Free diving champion and instructor talks about his work with Oceana. Interview with ND-1 J.R. Hott USN (NEDU) about the US Navy Diving program. DOWNLOAD AUDIO HERE Between Two Continents: Cold Water Diving in Iceland's Silfra Thu, 30 Apr 2009 01:46:00 +0000 21:21 false 4 101 full Joseph Cocozza What's it really like to giant-stride into a crack between two continents at 2–3°C (35–37°F)? In this episode, Joe heads to Þingvellir National Park in Iceland to dive Silfra with divemaster Loui from Dive.is, exploring the glacial spring that fills the fissure between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates. They break down the logistics of winter diving in Iceland—surface conditions, long walks over ice with full kit, drysuit and weighting challenges, and why 35 minutes at 18 m can feel like a serious expedition. You'll hear how the dives are run (cathedral, lagoon, and "little crack"), what more advanced 40 m cavern options look like, and why unstable rock and extreme cold demand true overhead-discipline even in "recreational" depths. Along the way, they weave in Viking history, beheading waterfalls, and what to pack so you don't freeze your hands off before you even hit the water.What's it really like to giant-stride into a crack between two continents at 2–3°C (35–37°F)? In this episode, Joe heads to Þingvellir National Park in Iceland to dive Silfra with divemaster Loui from Dive.is, exploring the glacial spring that fills the fissure between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates. They break down the logistics of winter diving in Iceland—surface conditions, long walks over ice with full kit, drysuit and weighting challenges, and why 35 minutes at 18 m can feel like a serious expedition. You'll hear how the dives are run (cathedral, lagoon, and "little crack"), what more advanced 40 m cavern options look like, and why unstable rock and extreme cold demand true overhead-discipline even in "recreational" depths. Along the way, they weave in Viking history, beheading waterfalls, and what to pack so you don't freeze your hands off before you even hit the water. CCR diving on the wreck of the SS Delaware Fri, 19 Dec 2008 14:06:00 +0000 23:53 false 3 100 full PD100: and HAPPY HOLIDAYS: To a great diving year in 2008 and to another great diving year in 2009. Welcome to the 4th season of Pod Diver Radio! SEGMENT 1: Joe Cocozza sums up PDR IN 2008 SEGMENT 2: 2009 PODCAST EPISODES WILL BE SUBJECT SPECIFIC. SEGMENT 3: Shipwreck Diving on the Dive Boat Sea Lion. CCR diving on the SS Delaware and artifact recovery on the MV Stolt Dagali. Travel tip! Don't stay at MOTEL 6 in Fort Lauderdale, it is STILL infested with roaches!PD100: and HAPPY HOLIDAYS: To a great diving year in 2008 and to another great diving year in 2009. Welcome to the 4th season of Pod Diver Radio! SEGMENT 1: Joe Cocozza sums up PDR IN 2008 SEGMENT 2: 2009 PODCAST EPISODES WILL BE SUBJECT SPECIFIC. SEGMENT 3: Shipwreck Diving on the Dive Boat Sea Lion. CCR diving on the SS Delaware and artifact recovery on the MV Stolt Dagali. Travel tip! Don't stay at MOTEL 6 in Fort Lauderdale, it is STILL infested with roaches! Stealth in the Keys: Freedive Spearfishing & Safe Apnea with Alex Pedera Sat, 26 Jul 2008 20:34:00 +0000 14:02 false 3 98 full Joseph Cocozza In this Florida Keys special, host Joe Cocozza sits down with longtime local waterman Alex Pedra to talk pure freediving spearfishing—no bubbles, no tanks, just breath-hold, skill, and precision. From Key Largo to the Marquesas and the Dry Tortugas, Alex breaks down how he hunts grouper and snapper on iconic wrecks like the Eagle, Duane, and Bibb… all on a single breath. You'll hear how proper apnea preparation, streamlining, and using gravity instead of kicking lets him glide silently to 70+ feet, and how his father "push-starts" his deep dives to save precious bottom time. Alex also shares a slick low-light trick for peeking into wreck holes—closing one eye on the surface to preserve "night vision" at depth. The conversation dives into why freedive spearfishing is one of the most selective and sustainable fishing methods, avoiding bycatch, monofilament, and damage to the reef. Alex and Joe also hit the serious side: shallow water blackout, why you never dive without a buddy who can match your depth, and why proper freediving training, gear, and mindset matter just as much as fins and a gun. Along the way, they touch on the strong European freediving scene, books like Umberto Pelizzari's freediving manual, and the role of the Underwater Society of America in competitive apnea, finswimming, and spearfishing in the U.S. If you're into freediving, spearfishing, or sustainable hunting underwater, this episode will make you want to grab your long blades and head for the Keys—safely. Tags (SEO for freedivers): freediving spearfishing Florida Keys freediving breath-hold diving apnea sustainable spearfishing techniques shallow water blackout safety Umberto Pelizzari freediving European freediving scene Underwater Society of AmericaIn this Florida Keys special, host Joe Cocozza sits down with longtime local waterman Alex Pedra to talk pure freediving spearfishing—no bubbles, no tanks, just breath-hold, skill, and precision. From Key Largo to the Marquesas and the Dry Tortugas, Alex breaks down how he hunts grouper and snapper on iconic wrecks like the Eagle, Duane, and Bibb… all on a single breath. You'll hear how proper apnea preparation, streamlining, and using gravity instead of kicking lets him glide silently to 70+ feet, and how his father "push-starts" his deep dives to save precious bottom time. Alex also shares a slick low-light trick for peeking into wreck holes—closing one eye on the surface to preserve "night vision" at depth. The conversation dives into why freedive spearfishing is one of the most selective and sustainable fishing methods, avoiding bycatch, monofilament, and damage to the reef. Alex and Joe also hit the serious side: shallow water blackout, why you never dive without a buddy who can match your depth, and why proper freediving training, gear, and mindset matter just as much as fins and a gun. Along the way, they touch on the strong European freediving scene, books like Umberto Pelizzari's freediving manual, and the role of the Underwater Society of America in competitive apnea, finswimming, and spearfishing in the U.S. If you're into freediving, spearfishing, or sustainable hunting underwater, this episode will make you want to grab your long blades and head for the Keys—safely. Tags (SEO for freedivers): freediving spearfishing Florida Keys freediving breath-hold diving apnea sustainable spearfishing techniques shallow water blackout safety Umberto Pelizzari freediving European freediving scene Underwater Society of America Bermuda, Bahamas and North Florida Tue, 08 Jul 2008 00:00:00 +0000 47:54 false 3 96 full PD96: A- BLOCK: WRECK DIVING IN BERMUDA Charlie Greene of Bermuda Scuba tells us about the various shipwrecks of Bermuda and Jacquelyn Bisset's wet t-shirt. B- BLOCK: KIDS SEA CAMP. Kids Sea Camp is a fun-filled vacation for families who love the ocean. A full week's schedule of events and educational programs promises great times and learning experiences for kids age 4-15. C-BLOCK: MONMOUTH CAVE SYSTEM Jill Heinerth takes us sump diving. D-BLOCK DIVING UNEXSO. Located in Port Lucaya. A wide variety of tropical diving adventures await you at UNEXSO, the only place in the world where you can dive in the open ocean with dolphins, dive with sharks, and explore the mystery of sunken ships on a single dive vacation. DOWNLOAD AUDIO FILEPD96: A- BLOCK: WRECK DIVING IN BERMUDA Charlie Greene of Bermuda Scuba tells us about the various shipwrecks of Bermuda and Jacquelyn Bisset's wet t-shirt. B- BLOCK: KIDS SEA CAMP. Kids Sea Camp is a fun-filled vacation for families who love the ocean. A full week's schedule of events and educational programs promises great times and learning experiences for kids age 4-15. C-BLOCK: MONMOUTH CAVE SYSTEM Jill Heinerth takes us sump diving. D-BLOCK DIVING UNEXSO. Located in Port Lucaya. A wide variety of tropical diving adventures await you at UNEXSO, the only place in the world where you can dive in the open ocean with dolphins, dive with sharks, and explore the mystery of sunken ships on a single dive vacation. DOWNLOAD AUDIO FILE CCR Training and Cave Diving in Bahamas Fri, 27 Jun 2008 18:07:00 +0000 01:10:36 false 3 95 full 1. EVOLUTION CCR TRAINING at Conch Republic Divers in Key Largo Florida. Richie Kohler teaches Joe Cocozza how to fly his new Evolution Rebreather. 2. Training Agency Review. NAUI. National Assoc of Underwater Instructors. 3. Cave Diving in Grand Bahamas Island with Christina Zenato of UNEXSO. DOWNLOAD AUDIO HERE1. EVOLUTION CCR TRAINING at Conch Republic Divers in Key Largo Florida. Richie Kohler teaches Joe Cocozza how to fly his new Evolution Rebreather. 2. Training Agency Review. NAUI. National Assoc of Underwater Instructors. 3. Cave Diving in Grand Bahamas Island with Christina Zenato of UNEXSO. DOWNLOAD AUDIO HERE Rebreathers, Wounded Warriors & One-Man Subs: Evolution Plus, SUDS & Dr. Phil Nuytten Mon, 09 Jun 2008 23:07:00 +0000 58:57 false 3 94 full Joseph Cocozza In this extended edition of Pod Diver Radio, we pack an entire tech-diving film festival into one episode. First, we head to Beneath the Sea for a deep-dive gear segment on the Evolution Plus from Silent Diving Systems. We break down how this closed circuit rebreather blends the best of the Evolution and Inspiration platforms, extended scrubber duration, travel weight considerations, and what it's like to "go to the dark side" of silent diving. Then we travel to Key Largo, Florida, for an emotional on-location segment with SUDS – Soldiers (Servicemembers) Undertaking Disabled Scuba. Founder John Thompson explains how the program was born at Walter Reed, and we hear directly from wounded warriors as they complete their open-water checkouts in the Florida Keys. It's adaptive diving, rehab, and pure joy rolled into one mission. We close with a rare conversation with deep-diving legend Dr. Phil Nuytten. From early commercial work and the birth of Oceaneering to saturation diving, the Newtsuit, atmospheric diving systems, and his tiny "sports car" one-man subs, Dr. Nuytten walks us through decades of innovation in how humans reach and work on the deep ocean floor. If you're into rebreathers, adaptive scuba, or the history and future of deep diving technology, this is a must-listen jumbo episode of Pod Diver Radio. DOWNLOAD AUDIO HEREIn this extended edition of Pod Diver Radio, we pack an entire tech-diving film festival into one episode. First, we head to Beneath the Sea for a deep-dive gear segment on the Evolution Plus from Silent Diving Systems. We break down how this closed circuit rebreather blends the best of the Evolution and Inspiration platforms, extended scrubber duration, travel weight considerations, and what it's like to "go to the dark side" of silent diving. Then we travel to Key Largo, Florida, for an emotional on-location segment with SUDS – Soldiers (Servicemembers) Undertaking Disabled Scuba. Founder John Thompson explains how the program was born at Walter Reed, and we hear directly from wounded warriors as they complete their open-water checkouts in the Florida Keys. It's adaptive diving, rehab, and pure joy rolled into one mission. We close with a rare conversation with deep-diving legend Dr. Phil Nuytten. From early commercial work and the birth of Oceaneering to saturation diving, the Newtsuit, atmospheric diving systems, and his tiny "sports car" one-man subs, Dr. Nuytten walks us through decades of innovation in how humans reach and work on the deep ocean floor. If you're into rebreathers, adaptive scuba, or the history and future of deep diving technology, this is a must-listen jumbo episode of Pod Diver Radio. DOWNLOAD AUDIO HERE DAN Technical Diving Conference. Sun, 30 Dec 2007 04:08:00 +0000 25:19 false 3 87 full PD87 Divers Alert Network: 2008 Technical Diving Conference. The two-day conference, planned for Jan. 18-19, 2008, in Durham, N.C., will feature four half-day workshops. Discussions will include the operational and medical aspects of technical diving. The forum will also address ways to improve effectiveness and safety. Workshops Overview PHYSIOLOGY WORKSHOP PLAN Respiration Normal respiration and gas exchange at sea level with emphasis on oxygen uptake, CO2 elimination, and ventilatory control. Dependency of CO2 elimination on ventilation. CO2 retention and individual susceptibility. Effects of tidal volume and dead space on alveolar ventilation. Hypo- and hyperventilation. Ventilatory capacity, physical fitness, and respiratory muscle fatigue. Effects of immersion and gas density. Airway collapse and effort independent expiratory flow. Equipment dead space, static lung load, breathing resistance, and work of breathing. Effect of HPNS on respiration. Case reports. CNS Oxygen Toxicity Relevant mechanisms of CNS toxicity: free radicals, ventilation, CO2 retention, cerebral blood flow. Risk factors and individual susceptibility. Donald's WWII studies. Estimating CNS toxicity risk in relation to O2 exposure, review of O2 exposure guidelines, and the O2 clock. O2-CO2 interactions and "Shallow Water Black-Out.? Mixed-gas O2 exposure limits. Recovery from CNS toxicity risk during underwater air breaks. Case reports. Narcosis and HPNS Signs and symptoms of nitrogen narcosis; individual susceptibility, accommodation and adaptation to narcosis; effects on narcosis of rate of compression, oxygen and carbon dioxide; onset depths of narcosis; narcotic potencies of N2, He, Ne, Ar, Xe, O2and CO2; oxygen narcosis; recommended depth limits for air diving; mechanism of narcosis; pressure reversal; utility of EAD/END (equivalent air depth/equivalent nitrogen depth). Signs and symptoms of HPNS; individual susceptibility; depth of occurrence; effect on HPNS of compression rate and time at depth; effect of trimix; effect of hydreliox; mechanisms of HPNS; options for reducing HPNS effects given obligatory fast descent rates. Thermal Mechanisms of heat transfer (radiation, conduction, evaporation, and convection) with application to divers. Physiological temperature control and consequences of heat transfer (work; shivering; regional vasoconstriction; stages of hyperthermia and hypothermia; freezing and non-freezing injury). Respiratory heat transfer (inert gas and density effects). Rewarming and thermal afterdrop ("warm and dead?). Drysuit insulation properties of Ar, He, CO2, air and O2 (is this safe?). Insulation properties of wet undergarments. Tools for thermal modeling. Hotwater suits for shallow in-water decompression stops vs. insulation for dry decompression. (Thermal effects on decompression will be covered in the Decompression Workshop.) Current and new active and passive technologies (power sources, hydrogen thermal batteries, hydrogen catalytic heating, regional rewarming, aerogel garments). DECOMPRESSION WORKSHOP PLAN DCI Pathophysiology DCI signs, symptoms and pathophysiology. Paradoxical thromboembolism and cryptogenic stroke. AGE: pulmonary barotrauma, ASD, PFO, and transpulmonary passage, Type III DCS. PFO detection and diver evaluation. Transpulmonary passage and bubble size. Evidence associating DCS with PFO. Skin bends and PFO. Exercise and pulmonary shunt. PFO correction. Case reports. DCS Risk Factors VGE as a measure of decompression stress. Environment: temperature, immersion, exercise. Influence of dive phase (pre-, bottom, deco, post-). Individual: obesity, gender, age, aerobic fitness, individual susceptibility. Adaptation, hydration, alcohol, previous DCS, injury. Deep Stops History and theory of deep stops. Empirical methods and rules. Supporting evidence and experimental data. Validation of methodology. In-Water Recompression Review of IWR experience. Appropriate signs and symptoms for IWR. Equipment and procedures to minimize IWR risk in event of decompression emergency with no access to recompression chamber. Training requirements. Environmental conditions. Depth measurement and control. Diver monitoring and tending. Surface support. Emergency procedures. Outcome reporting. DCS Risk Assessment DCS probability and severity in air and nitrox diving. DCS severity and acceptable DCS risk. Technical diving database, risk analysis and dive condition effects. Examples of tech dive profiles and outcome data. Diver Health Status Form (DHSF). Uploading dive profile and DHSF data to DAN Website. Are technical divers self-selected? REBREATHER WORKSHOP PLAN US Navy and UK/EU Perspectives on Rebreather Test Methods and Standards Rebreather divers must overcome the work of breathing due to breathing resistance, static lung load, and elastance. Inspired CO2 amplifies these effects by increasing ventilation. CO2 sensors and scrubber gauges would decrease this risk. CO2 canister duration is tested as a function of temperature, workload, and depth. O2 control accuracy is assessed. Testing should be performed on breathing machines and by divers. What US and EU labs are qualified to test rebreathers? What is the role of failure mode effect and criticality analysis (FMECA) in rebreather design? New U.S. Navy performance standards are based on diver tolerance. U.S. Navy and EU rebreather test standards should not differ, but do.PD87 Divers Alert Network: 2008 Technical Diving Conference. The two-day conference, planned for Jan. 18-19, 2008, in Durham, N.C., will feature four half-day workshops. Discussions will include the operational and medical aspects of technical diving. The forum will also address ways to improve effectiveness and safety. Workshops Overview PHYSIOLOGY WORKSHOP PLAN Respiration Normal respiration and gas exchange at sea level with emphasis on oxygen uptake, CO2 elimination, and ventilatory control. Dependency of CO2 elimination on ventilation. CO2 retention and individual susceptibility. Effects of tidal volume and dead space on alveolar ventilation. Hypo- and hyperventilation. Ventilatory capacity, physical fitness, and respiratory muscle fatigue. Effects of immersion and gas density. Airway collapse and effort independent expiratory flow. Equipment dead space, static lung load, breathing resistance, and work of breathing. Effect of HPNS on respiration. Case reports. CNS Oxygen Toxicity Relevant mechanisms of CNS toxicity: free radicals, ventilation, CO2 retention, cerebral blood flow. Risk factors and individual susceptibility. Donald's WWII studies. Estimating CNS toxicity risk in relation to O2 exposure, review of O2 exposure guidelines, and the O2 clock. O2-CO2 interactions and "Shallow Water Black-Out.? Mixed-gas O2 exposure limits. Recovery from CNS toxicity risk during underwater air breaks. Case reports. Narcosis and HPNS Signs and symptoms of nitrogen narcosis; individual susceptibility, accommodation and adaptation to narcosis; effects on narcosis of rate of compression, oxygen and carbon dioxide; onset depths of narcosis; narcotic potencies of N2, He, Ne, Ar, Xe, O2and CO2; oxygen narcosis; recommended depth limits for air diving; mechanism of narcosis; pressure reversal; utility of EAD/END (equivalent air depth/equivalent nitrogen depth). Signs and symptoms of HPNS; individual susceptibility; depth of occurrence; effect on HPNS of compression rate and time at depth; effect of trimix; effect of hydreliox; mechanisms of HPNS; options for reducing HPNS effects given obligatory fast descent rates. Thermal Mechanisms of heat transfer (radiation, conduction, evaporation, and convection) with application to divers. Physiological temperature control and consequences of heat transfer (work; shivering; regional vasoconstriction; stages of hyperthermia and hypothermia; freezing and non-freezing injury). Respiratory heat transfer (inert gas and density effects). Rewarming and thermal afterdrop ("warm and dead?). Drysuit insulation properties of Ar, He, CO2, air and O2 (is this safe?). Insulation properties of wet undergarments. Tools for thermal modeling. Hotwater suits for shallow in-water decompression stops vs. insulation for dry decompression. (Thermal effects on decompression will be covered in the Decompression Workshop.) Current and new active and passive technologies (power sources, hydrogen thermal batteries, hydrogen catalytic heating, regional rewarming, aerogel garments). DECOMPRESSION WORKSHOP PLAN DCI Pathophysiology DCI signs, symptoms and pathophysiology. Paradoxical thromboembolism and cryptogenic stroke. AGE: pulmonary barotrauma, ASD, PFO, and transpulmonary passage, Type III DCS. PFO detection and diver evaluation. Transpulmonary passage and bubble size. Evidence associating DCS with PFO. Skin bends and PFO. Exercise and pulmonary shunt. PFO correction. Case reports. DCS Risk Factors VGE as a measure of decompression stress. Environment: temperature, immersion, exercise. Influence of dive phase (pre-, bottom, deco, post-). Individual: obesity, gender, age, aerobic fitness, individual susceptibility. Adaptation, hydration, alcohol, previous DCS, injury. Deep Stops History and theory of deep stops. Empirical methods and rules. Supporting evidence and experimental data. Validation of methodology. In-Water Recompression Review of IWR experience. Appropriate signs and symptoms for IWR. Equipment and procedures to minimize IWR risk in event of decompression emergency with no access to recompression chamber. Training requirements. Environmental conditions. Depth measurement and control. Diver monitoring and tending. Surface support. Emergency procedures. Outcome reporting. DCS Risk Assessment DCS probability and severity in air and nitrox diving. DCS severity and acceptable DCS risk. Technical diving database, risk analysis and dive condition effects. Examples of tech dive profiles and outcome data. Diver Health Status Form (DHSF). Uploading dive profile and DHSF data to DAN Website. Are technical divers self-selected? REBREATHER WORKSHOP PLAN US Navy and UK/EU Perspectives on Rebreather Test Methods and Standards Rebreather divers must overcome the work of breathing due to breathing resistance, static lung load, and elastance. Inspired CO2 amplifies these effects by increasing ventilation. CO2 sensors and scrubber gauges would decrease this risk. CO2 canister duration is tested as a function of temperature, workload, and depth. O2 control accuracy is assessed. Testing should be performed on breathing machines and by divers. What US and EU labs are qualified to test rebreathers? What is the role of failure mode effect and criticality analysis (FMECA) in rebreather design? New U.S. Navy performance standards are based on diver tolerance. U.S. Navy and EU rebreather test standards should not differ, but do. O2 Provider Course and NEDU Mon, 10 Dec 2007 03:31:00 +0000 41:50 false 3 86 full PD-86 A- BLOCK: NACD BAG-O-SWAG. B- BLOCK: Divers Alert Network: Oxygen Provider Course. C- BLOCK: NAVY EXPERMENTAL DIVE UNIT (NEDU) with Petty Officer First Class J.R. Hott. DOWNLOAD AUDIO FILEPD-86 A- BLOCK: NACD BAG-O-SWAG. B- BLOCK: Divers Alert Network: Oxygen Provider Course. C- BLOCK: NAVY EXPERMENTAL DIVE UNIT (NEDU) with Petty Officer First Class J.R. Hott. DOWNLOAD AUDIO FILE Fitness and diving Sun, 25 Nov 2007 22:14:00 +0000 14:21 false 3 85 full PD85: Fitness and DivingDr Neil Pollack of Divers Alert Network talks about fitness and scuba diving. We also talk with Nancy Easterbrook of Dive Tech Grand Cayman talks about CCR Diving and INNER SPACE.PD85: Fitness and DivingDr Neil Pollack of Divers Alert Network talks about fitness and scuba diving. We also talk with Nancy Easterbrook of Dive Tech Grand Cayman talks about CCR Diving and INNER SPACE. Sharks, Science & the City: Oceana, Dr. Vann, and Richie Kohler Sun, 18 Nov 2007 06:53:00 +0000 54:34 false 3 84 full Joseph Cocozza A- BLOCK: OCEANA TALKS ABOUT saving our seas and the awful practice of Shark Fining. B- BLOCK: DAN: Dr Richard Vann talks about the upcoming Tech Diving Conferance. C- BLOCK: Sound scence tour. Richie Kohler in New York City. DOWNLOAD AUDIO HEREA- BLOCK: OCEANA TALKS ABOUT saving our seas and the awful practice of Shark Fining. B- BLOCK: DAN: Dr Richard Vann talks about the upcoming Tech Diving Conferance. C- BLOCK: Sound scence tour. Richie Kohler in New York City. DOWNLOAD AUDIO HERE CAVE DIVE TRIP TO NORTH FLORIDA Tue, 06 Nov 2007 02:33:00 +0000 57:09 false 3 82 full SOUND SCENE TOUR OF CAVE DIVE TRIP TO NORTH FLORIDA. GERRY MURPHY OF DIVE RITE TALKS ABOUT CAVE DIVING EXPLORATION AND THE ADVENT OF NEW DIVE GEAR.SOUND SCENE TOUR OF CAVE DIVE TRIP TO NORTH FLORIDA. GERRY MURPHY OF DIVE RITE TALKS ABOUT CAVE DIVING EXPLORATION AND THE ADVENT OF NEW DIVE GEAR. Cave Diving Paleontology in the Bahamas. Sat, 15 Sep 2007 16:00:00 +0000 29:31 false 3 80 full PD-80: Cave Diving Science, Exploration and Paleontology in the Bahamas. Interview with Brian Kakuk and Nancy Albury of the he Bahamas Antiquities, Monuments and Museums Corp. (AMMC) / National Museum of the Bahamas. We talk with in the Bahamas Sawmill Sink Project. A multi-disciplinary research and underwater cave exploration project.project, funded by tBRIAN KAKUK talks about fossils and cave diving in the Bahamas.PD-80: Cave Diving Science, Exploration and Paleontology in the Bahamas. Interview with Brian Kakuk and Nancy Albury of the he Bahamas Antiquities, Monuments and Museums Corp. (AMMC) / National Museum of the Bahamas. We talk with in the Bahamas Sawmill Sink Project. A multi-disciplinary research and underwater cave exploration project.project, funded by tBRIAN KAKUK talks about fossils and cave diving in the Bahamas. BRIAN KAKUK: Underwater "Oh Shite" Moment Mon, 03 Sep 2007 05:02:00 +0000 08:48 false 3 79 full BRIAN KAKUK'S "OH Shite Momment" When pusch virgin line in an underwater fracture cave. AT 320 ft, the big boulders start to fall.BRIAN KAKUK'S "OH Shite Momment" When pusch virgin line in an underwater fracture cave. AT 320 ft, the big boulders start to fall. Bahamas Blue Holes, Cave Exploration & Cold-Water Tech Wed, 15 Aug 2007 19:40:00 +0000 31:15 false 3 78 full Joseph Cocozza This extended episode of Pod Diver Radio goes deep into the world of blue holes, caves, and serious life-support gear—perfect listening if you're a freediver dreaming of Bahamas sinkholes or a tech diver gearing up for expedition dives. We kick off with news from Divers Alert Network (DAN): details on the upcoming DAN Technical Diving Conference in Durham, NC, featuring Dr. Richard Vann on hyperbaric science, Dr. Peter Denoble on accident prevention and expedition planning, plus wreck and cave sessions with Jon & Richie and GUE's Jared Yablonski. Then we head to Abaco, Bahamas, where Joe sits down with cave explorer and instructor Brian Kakuk of Bahamas Underground. They break down: Iconic systems like Dan's Cave, the Badlands, and Ralph's Sink Crystal-white formations, "Crystal Palace" rooms, and crocodile & tortoise fossils preserved in hydrogen sulfide layers Ocean caves like Reel Breaker: tidal flow, dense sponge gardens, lobsters deep in the dark, and bioprospecting potential Why Brian teaches cave diving primarily in sidemount, and how Abaco today feels like "Mexico in the '70s" for explorers In the final segment, Dive Rite In-Depth looks at the Hurricane regulator in real-world cold-water conditions at Dutch Springs, during work-up dives for the U-869. Joe talks hose routing, compact cold-water first stages, deep stops, and how the Hurricane breathes side-by-side against his older reg at ~90 ft / 47°F. If you're into freediving blue holes, cave exploration, or just want to understand the environments and gear that push the limits of underwater exploration, this long-form episode is packed with ideas, stories, and tech talk.This extended episode of Pod Diver Radio goes deep into the world of blue holes, caves, and serious life-support gear—perfect listening if you're a freediver dreaming of Bahamas sinkholes or a tech diver gearing up for expedition dives. We kick off with news from Divers Alert Network (DAN): details on the upcoming DAN Technical Diving Conference in Durham, NC, featuring Dr. Richard Vann on hyperbaric science, Dr. Peter Denoble on accident prevention and expedition planning, plus wreck and cave sessions with Jon & Richie and GUE's Jared Yablonski. Then we head to Abaco, Bahamas, where Joe sits down with cave explorer and instructor Brian Kakuk of Bahamas Underground. They break down: Iconic systems like Dan's Cave, the Badlands, and Ralph's Sink Crystal-white formations, "Crystal Palace" rooms, and crocodile & tortoise fossils preserved in hydrogen sulfide layers Ocean caves like Reel Breaker: tidal flow, dense sponge gardens, lobsters deep in the dark, and bioprospecting potential Why Brian teaches cave diving primarily in sidemount, and how Abaco today feels like "Mexico in the '70s" for explorers In the final segment, Dive Rite In-Depth looks at the Hurricane regulator in real-world cold-water conditions at Dutch Springs, during work-up dives for the U-869. Joe talks hose routing, compact cold-water first stages, deep stops, and how the Hurricane breathes side-by-side against his older reg at ~90 ft / 47°F. If you're into freediving blue holes, cave exploration, or just want to understand the environments and gear that push the limits of underwater exploration, this long-form episode is packed with ideas, stories, and tech talk. Cave Diving, Deep Shipwrecks and Recompression Treatment. Sat, 04 Aug 2007 09:10:00 +0000 35:02 false 3 77 full PD77: 1. We speak with Jill Heinerth about not diving the U-869 and August giveaway of her DVD "Waters Journey" www.intotheplanet.com 2. Interviews with British Deep Shipwreck Diver Leah Cunningham and his finding a new shipwreck at 420 fsw. Then a 3. DIVE RITE In Depth."review a Dive Rite Regulators and 4. review of "Playa International Clinic" and the Re-compression Chamber in Mexico's Rivera Maya LISTEN TO AUDIO HEREPD77: 1. We speak with Jill Heinerth about not diving the U-869 and August giveaway of her DVD "Waters Journey" www.intotheplanet.com 2. Interviews with British Deep Shipwreck Diver Leah Cunningham and his finding a new shipwreck at 420 fsw. Then a 3. DIVE RITE In Depth."review a Dive Rite Regulators and 4. review of "Playa International Clinic" and the Re-compression Chamber in Mexico's Rivera Maya LISTEN TO AUDIO HERE Bahamas Cave Diving w/ Brian Kakuk Fri, 13 Jul 2007 16:00:00 +0000 22:41 false 3 76 full Cave Diving in Abaco Bahamas with Brian Kakuk.Cave Diving in Abaco Bahamas with Brian Kakuk. ABACO Divers & Brian Kakuk's "O-S-M" Tue, 10 Jul 2007 22:54:00 +0000 51:19 false 3 75 full SHOW NOTES 1. "Live" from ABACO BAHAMAS, report from the island. Also, review of book "Scuba Diver Safety" by Dan Orr. 2. Abaco Dive Adventures: Interview with Tim Higgs. 3. PADI, Specialty course "Cavern Diver" 4. DIVE RITE In Depth." Review of the new regulator, the Hurricane. 5. "Oh Shit Moment" Brian Kakuk talks about the fun life of a Navy Diver. LISTEN AND DOWNLOAD AUDIO HERESHOW NOTES 1. "Live" from ABACO BAHAMAS, report from the island. Also, review of book "Scuba Diver Safety" by Dan Orr. 2. Abaco Dive Adventures: Interview with Tim Higgs. 3. PADI, Specialty course "Cavern Diver" 4. DIVE RITE In Depth." Review of the new regulator, the Hurricane. 5. "Oh Shit Moment" Brian Kakuk talks about the fun life of a Navy Diver. LISTEN AND DOWNLOAD AUDIO HERE Angelita to Ellison's Cave: Cenote Magic & an "Oh Shit" moment w/ Lamar Hires Fri, 29 Jun 2007 21:06:00 +0000 46:34 true 3 74 full Joseph Cocozza In this extended cave-centric episode of Pod Diver Radio, we bounce from Mexico to Georgia to Cuba and the Bahamas with a stack of stories cave divers will recognize immediately. We start with a trip report from Angelita and Gran Cenote with cavern guide Stephan of Yucatec Divers. He walks us through the surreal hydrosulfide cloud at ~100 ft, the halocline, and the island of dead trees rising out of the "cloud," then over to stunning speleothems and daylight-filled passages at Gran Cenote. Stephan breaks down how guided cavern tours work, what the limits are for open water divers, and how these dives often become the gateway drug to full cave training. Next up is the first installment of our new "Oh Shit Moment" series: Lamar Hires (Dive Rite) shares a multi-diver incident in Ellison's Cave, Georgia—a broken line in a sump, no safety reel, low gas, missing pack, and the very real possibility of a trapped body blocking the only way out. It's a detailed, honest walk-through of decision making, gas limitations (single 72s with Y-valves), and how cave teams deal with compounding failures when "we are who they would call." Joe also talks training and gear: how he teaches the PADI Deep Diver specialty as a stepping stone toward tech and cave, why he loves aluminum 72s as stage/deco bottles, and a call-out to help kick off a new AL72 production run. We preview an upcoming Abaco, Bahamas cave diving trip, plus a special Jill Heinerth event and wreck day on U-869 off New Jersey with Jill, Richie Kohler, and John Chatterton. Finally, we switch gears with Matt from ProTec describing Spanish-American War wrecks off Cuba—wrecks so intact you can spot one of them on Google Earth. If you're into cenotes, cave incidents, stage bottles, and future cave trips, this long-form episode is built for youIn this extended cave-centric episode of Pod Diver Radio, we bounce from Mexico to Georgia to Cuba and the Bahamas with a stack of stories cave divers will recognize immediately. We start with a trip report from Angelita and Gran Cenote with cavern guide Stephan of Yucatec Divers. He walks us through the surreal hydrosulfide cloud at ~100 ft, the halocline, and the island of dead trees rising out of the "cloud," then over to stunning speleothems and daylight-filled passages at Gran Cenote. Stephan breaks down how guided cavern tours work, what the limits are for open water divers, and how these dives often become the gateway drug to full cave training. Next up is the first installment of our new "Oh Shit Moment" series: Lamar Hires (Dive Rite) shares a multi-diver incident in Ellison's Cave, Georgia—a broken line in a sump, no safety reel, low gas, missing pack, and the very real possibility of a trapped body blocking the only way out. It's a detailed, honest walk-through of decision making, gas limitations (single 72s with Y-valves), and how cave teams deal with compounding failures when "we are who they would call." Joe also talks training and gear: how he teaches the PADI Deep Diver specialty as a stepping stone toward tech and cave, why he loves aluminum 72s as stage/deco bottles, and a call-out to help kick off a new AL72 production run. We preview an upcoming Abaco, Bahamas cave diving trip, plus a special Jill Heinerth event and wreck day on U-869 off New Jersey with Jill, Richie Kohler, and John Chatterton. Finally, we switch gears with Matt from ProTec describing Spanish-American War wrecks off Cuba—wrecks so intact you can spot one of them on Google Earth. If you're into cenotes, cave incidents, stage bottles, and future cave trips, this long-form episode is built for you NJHDA Shipwreck Symposium Tue, 19 Jun 2007 14:30:00 +0000 54:01 false 3 73 full Interviews w/ Captain Martin Bayerle about the search for gold on-board the RMS Republic and Dean Fessler of the Shark Research Institute: PD73: Sound Scene Tour of the New Jersey Historical Diving Assoc. : Shipwreck Symposium. (Joe recounts working on the RMS Republic documentary with Captain Bayerle way back in 1989)Interviews w/ Captain Martin Bayerle about the search for gold on-board the RMS Republic and Dean Fessler of the Shark Research Institute: PD73: Sound Scene Tour of the New Jersey Historical Diving Assoc. : Shipwreck Symposium. (Joe recounts working on the RMS Republic documentary with Captain Bayerle way back in 1989) GUE Cave ~ DAN Tech Tips ~ Yucatek Wed, 06 Jun 2007 13:50:00 +0000 50:29 false 3 71 full Joseph Cocozza MSDT 1. YUCATEK Dive Center. Playa del Carmem, Q-Roo, Mexico 2. DAN Tech Tips Dr. Richard Vann. (Oxygen Toxcity) 3. GUE Cave 1 Program. DOWNLOAD AUDIO HERE1. YUCATEK Dive Center. Playa del Carmem, Q-Roo, Mexico 2. DAN Tech Tips Dr. Richard Vann. (Oxygen Toxcity) 3. GUE Cave 1 Program. DOWNLOAD AUDIO HERE HPNS Explained with DAN's Dr. Richard Vann Sun, 13 May 2007 16:53:00 +0000 10:39 false 3 70 full Joseph Cocozza MSDT In this DAN Tech Time episode of Pod Diver Radio, host Joe Cocozza sits down with Dr. Richard Vann to break down HPNS—High Pressure Nervous Syndrome—for serious technical divers. They unpack what HPNS actually is, why it's pressure (not helium) driven, and how enzyme distortion at extreme depth leads to tremors, sleep disruption, loss of appetite, and even psychosis on very deep dives. Dr. Vann also explains why HPNS starts to show up around 600 ft / 180 m, why rapid "bounce" dives make tech divers more vulnerable than saturation teams, and how adding narcotic gases like nitrogen or hydrogen can partially counteract HPNS on deep helium dives. If you're planning extreme trimix, dreaming about 500+ ft cave or wreck dives, or just want to understand the real science behind The Abyss, this episode is your deep-physics briefing on HPNS, helium, and ultra-deep decompression strategy.In this DAN Tech Time episode of Pod Diver Radio, host Joe Cocozza sits down with Dr. Richard Vann to break down HPNS—High Pressure Nervous Syndrome—for serious technical divers. They unpack what HPNS actually is, why it's pressure (not helium) driven, and how enzyme distortion at extreme depth leads to tremors, sleep disruption, loss of appetite, and even psychosis on very deep dives. Dr. Vann also explains why HPNS starts to show up around 600 ft / 180 m, why rapid "bounce" dives make tech divers more vulnerable than saturation teams, and how adding narcotic gases like nitrogen or hydrogen can partially counteract HPNS on deep helium dives. If you're planning extreme trimix, dreaming about 500+ ft cave or wreck dives, or just want to understand the real science behind The Abyss, this episode is your deep-physics briefing on HPNS, helium, and ultra-deep decompression strategy. Helium as a dive gas Wed, 25 Apr 2007 23:23:00 +0000 42:36 false 3 68 full PD68: 1. PADI; Search and Recovery 2. D.A.N. Tech Time with Richard Vann PhD. Helium as a dive gas. 3. Celebrity Instructor 4. Diving the USS Monitor with Joel Silberstein of TDL ** Contact Joe Cocozza at poddiver@gmail.com ** Contact Rescue Diver Rachel at rcocozza@gmail.comPD68: 1. PADI; Search and Recovery 2. D.A.N. Tech Time with Richard Vann PhD. Helium as a dive gas. 3. Celebrity Instructor 4. Diving the USS Monitor with Joel Silberstein of TDL ** Contact Joe Cocozza at poddiver@gmail.com ** Contact Rescue Diver Rachel at rcocozza@gmail.com Nitrogen Narcosis & Progressive penetration Thu, 12 Apr 2007 00:49:00 +0000 01:02:17 false 3 67 full PD67: 1. NJ Shipwreck Museum.2. D.A.N. Tech Time with Richard Vann PhD. Nitrogen Narcosis 3. Progressive penetration 4. TDI TRIMIX Training with Brian CarneyPD67: 1. NJ Shipwreck Museum.2. D.A.N. Tech Time with Richard Vann PhD. Nitrogen Narcosis 3. Progressive penetration 4. TDI TRIMIX Training with Brian Carney Closed Circuit, Open Minds: Rebreathers, Dive Science & Beneath the Sea 2007 Sun, 01 Apr 2007 11:47:00 +0000 38:01 false 3 64 full Joseph Cocozza On this classic episode of Pod Diver Radio, Joe and Rescue Diver Rachel gear up for Beneath the Sea 2007 and take a deep dive into the world of technical diving and rebreathers. First, Joe talks with Steve Martell of PADI DSAT (Diving Science and Technology) about how modern scuba training is really built—learning objectives, curriculum design, and why today's dive courses look more like real educational programs than old-school "boot camp" scuba. Then we go in-depth on closed circuit rebreathers with Lamar Hires of Dive Rite, breaking down the design philosophy behind the Optima CCR and Optima FX: scrubber placement, Micropore cartridges, work of breathing, bailout strategies, and how the unit integrates with standard tech harnesses and wings. We wrap with a pre–Beneath the Sea 2007 preview: what's happening at the show, the Dive Rite tech-diving party, and where to find Pod Diver Radio roaming the floor with mics in hand. If you're curious about CCRs, dive training science, or the vibe of the northeast's biggest dive show, this episode is for you.On this classic episode of Pod Diver Radio, Joe and Rescue Diver Rachel gear up for Beneath the Sea 2007 and take a deep dive into the world of technical diving and rebreathers. First, Joe talks with Steve Martell of PADI DSAT (Diving Science and Technology) about how modern scuba training is really built—learning objectives, curriculum design, and why today's dive courses look more like real educational programs than old-school "boot camp" scuba. Then we go in-depth on closed circuit rebreathers with Lamar Hires of Dive Rite, breaking down the design philosophy behind the Optima CCR and Optima FX: scrubber placement, Micropore cartridges, work of breathing, bailout strategies, and how the unit integrates with standard tech harnesses and wings. We wrap with a pre–Beneath the Sea 2007 preview: what's happening at the show, the Dive Rite tech-diving party, and where to find Pod Diver Radio roaming the floor with mics in hand. If you're curious about CCRs, dive training science, or the vibe of the northeast's biggest dive show, this episode is for you. Cave Diving Death at Jackson Blue Sat, 10 Mar 2007 20:03:00 +0000 30:41 false 3 63 full 1: Cave Diving death at Jackson Blue 2. Interview with RADM DeBoius of the NOAA Corps 3. PADI Specialty of the Month: UNDERWATER NAVIGATION. LISTEN TO AUDIO HERE1: Cave Diving death at Jackson Blue 2. Interview with RADM DeBoius of the NOAA Corps 3. PADI Specialty of the Month: UNDERWATER NAVIGATION. LISTEN TO AUDIO HERE The DIVE RITE TRANSPAC Sat, 03 Mar 2007 16:24:00 +0000 39:49 false 3 62 full SHOW NOTES: 1. Split Fin Debate/Cave dive review 2. GREENFORCE LIGHTING SYSTEMS 3. DIVE RITE TRANSPAC INTERVIEW WITH LAMAR HIRESSHOW NOTES: 1. Split Fin Debate/Cave dive review 2. GREENFORCE LIGHTING SYSTEMS 3. DIVE RITE TRANSPAC INTERVIEW WITH LAMAR HIRES 5 Rules of Cave Diving Sun, 25 Feb 2007 02:33:00 +0000 34:23 false 3 61 full Interview with Ralph DiPanfilo of NSS-CDS. Ralph discussed the 5 rules of Cave Diving and Accident Analysis of Cave Diving Deaths. Time: 37:57Interview with Ralph DiPanfilo of NSS-CDS. Ralph discussed the 5 rules of Cave Diving and Accident Analysis of Cave Diving Deaths. Time: 37:57 PADI Nitrox & NOAA National Marine Sanctuaries Sat, 03 Feb 2007 02:01:00 +0000 41:53 false 3 59 full -Cambrian Foundation Gala: Sign up amy@cambrianfoundation.org -PADI Specialty of the Month EANx ( Enriched Air Nitrox ) -NOAA National Marine Sanctuaries. LISTEN AND DOWNLOAD AUDIO HERE-Cambrian Foundation Gala: Sign up amy@cambrianfoundation.org -PADI Specialty of the Month EANx ( Enriched Air Nitrox ) -NOAA National Marine Sanctuaries. LISTEN AND DOWNLOAD AUDIO HERE Diver Deaths on USCGC HEALY Fri, 26 Jan 2007 17:13:00 +0000 11:07 false 3 58 full Diver Deaths on USCGC HEALY. In August of 2006, the US Coast Guard Cutter Healy (WAGB-20) was on Arctic Patrol. Military divers. Lt. Jessica Hill and PO2 Stephen Duque died during Arctic Ocean diving operations. After reading the after action reports, Joe Cocozza gives his expert opinion and analysis of the incident. The USCG report is here for download http://www.uscg.mil/foia/Healy/HealyFDL.pdfDiver Deaths on USCGC HEALY. In August of 2006, the US Coast Guard Cutter Healy (WAGB-20) was on Arctic Patrol. Military divers. Lt. Jessica Hill and PO2 Stephen Duque died during Arctic Ocean diving operations. After reading the after action reports, Joe Cocozza gives his expert opinion and analysis of the incident. The USCG report is here for download http://www.uscg.mil/foia/Healy/HealyFDL.pdf Ginnie Springs 30th Anniversary Sat, 06 Jan 2007 17:00:00 +0000 20:44 false full Ginnie Springs 30th Anniversary: Sound scene tour and interview with Karl Shreeves of PADI DSAT at the 30th Anniversary Celebration at Ginnie Springs Outdoors at the site of the "Devils" Cave System. We discuss the history of Ginnie Springs as well the future of Rebreathers.Ginnie Springs 30th Anniversary: Sound scene tour and interview with Karl Shreeves of PADI DSAT at the 30th Anniversary Celebration at Ginnie Springs Outdoors at the site of the "Devils" Cave System. We discuss the history of Ginnie Springs as well the future of Rebreathers. Deco Theory & Application Tue, 02 Jan 2007 17:00:00 +0000 33:05 false 3 56 full DEMA 2007 Interview w/ Dr Petar Denoble from Divers Alert Network. Dr. Denoble discusses: Decompression theory and application. Empirical testing and Doppler studies and working on with Richie Kohler and John Chatterton on an expedition to the RMS Britannic for the TV Series Deep Sea Detectives.DEMA 2007 Interview w/ Dr Petar Denoble from Divers Alert Network. Dr. Denoble discusses: Decompression theory and application. Empirical testing and Doppler studies and working on with Richie Kohler and John Chatterton on an expedition to the RMS Britannic for the TV Series Deep Sea Detectives. Key West. St Croix and OXYCHEQ Mon, 27 Nov 2006 03:06:00 +0000 24:58 false 2 53 full - KEY WEST: REEFMAKERS - Equipent Review : OXYCHEQ - Pretty Fish diving in St. Croix the USVI LISTEN AND DOWNLOAD AUDIO FILE HERE- KEY WEST: REEFMAKERS - Equipent Review : OXYCHEQ - Pretty Fish diving in St. Croix the USVI LISTEN AND DOWNLOAD AUDIO FILE HERE DEMA 2006 Mon, 20 Nov 2006 01:16:00 +0000 43:24 false 2 52 full 1. Sound Scene Tour of DEMA 2006, Orlando Florida 2. D-BLOCK: Frankie sleeps with the fishes. 3. E-BLOCK: NOAA's National Undersea Research Project. DOWNLOAD AND LISTEN TO AUDIO FILE1. Sound Scene Tour of DEMA 2006, Orlando Florida 2. D-BLOCK: Frankie sleeps with the fishes. 3. E-BLOCK: NOAA's National Undersea Research Project. DOWNLOAD AND LISTEN TO AUDIO FILE Florida Cave Science w/ Dr Bill Huth PhD Mon, 30 Oct 2006 00:15:00 +0000 27:04 false 2 51 full PD-51 Interview with Dr Bill Huth PhD, Science Director for National Speleological Society Cave Diving Section (NSS-CDS). Dr. Huth is an Environmental Economist and discusses water resources management and the health of Floridian aquifer. www.nsscds.com DOWNLOAD AUDIO FILE AND LISTEN HEREPD-51 Interview with Dr Bill Huth PhD, Science Director for National Speleological Society Cave Diving Section (NSS-CDS). Dr. Huth is an Environmental Economist and discusses water resources management and the health of Floridian aquifer. www.nsscds.com DOWNLOAD AUDIO FILE AND LISTEN HERE THE NOAA DIVE PROGRAM Mon, 16 Oct 2006 14:23:00 +0000 17:49 false 2 50 full PD-50 : THE NOAA DIVE PROGRAM. Interview with Steve Gittings. NOAA Divemaster and Scientist.PD-50 : THE NOAA DIVE PROGRAM. Interview with Steve Gittings. NOAA Divemaster and Scientist. Philippe Cousteau Interview Sun, 17 Sep 2006 22:56:00 +0000 24:36 false 2 46 full Joseph Cocozza MSDT Philippe Cousteau Interview. Philippe Cousteau is the grandson of Captain Jacques-Yves Cousteau.Philippe Cousteau Interview. Philippe Cousteau is the grandson of Captain Jacques-Yves Cousteau. CAVE DIVING PIONEER- Bill "HOGARTH" Main Fri, 08 Sep 2006 10:48:00 +0000 26:35 false 2 45 full Joseph Cocozza PD45: Part 1. Interview with CAVE DIVING PIONEER Bill "HOGARTH" Main, the originator of the HOGARTHIAN or the HOG. We talk with Bill after a dive at Devils System. Bill Main talks about the past and future of cave diving. Part 2. We talk with Kate Thompson about Great Lakes shipwreck diving in the Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary.PD45: Part 1. Interview with CAVE DIVING PIONEER Bill "HOGARTH" Main, the originator of the HOGARTHIAN or the HOG. We talk with Bill after a dive at Devils System. Bill Main talks about the past and future of cave diving. Part 2. We talk with Kate Thompson about Great Lakes shipwreck diving in the Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary. NOAA Aquarius Habitat & Undersea Research Program Mon, 28 Aug 2006 23:50:00 +0000 38:24 false 2 44 full Joseph Cocozza PD44: NOAA's National Undersea Research Program and the Aquarius Habitat. Interview NURP Deputy Director/ Commander Karen Kohanwich. We discuss the history and future of undersea habitats. We also discuss NOAA's work with NASA on the NEEMO Project.PD44: NOAA's National Undersea Research Program and the Aquarius Habitat. Interview NURP Deputy Director/ Commander Karen Kohanwich. We discuss the history and future of undersea habitats. We also discuss NOAA's work with NASA on the NEEMO Project. US Navy Diving with Brian Kakuk Sat, 19 Aug 2006 02:33:00 +0000 06:30 false 2 43 full Audio Interview with Brian Kakuk. Brian is a former US Navy Diver. Today Brian is one of the world foremost Cave diving expolores andtech diving instructors.Audio Interview with Brian Kakuk. Brian is a former US Navy Diver. Today Brian is one of the world foremost Cave diving expolores andtech diving instructors. NOAA Outreach Sat, 12 Aug 2006 01:08:00 +0000 01:01:08 false 2 42 full B-BLOCK: NOAA Outreach with John Stevenson. C-BLOCK: CCR design with Peter Ready D-BLOCK: POD DIVER RADIO NEWS E-BLOCK: Diving the USS OriskanyB-BLOCK: NOAA Outreach with John Stevenson. C-BLOCK: CCR design with Peter Ready D-BLOCK: POD DIVER RADIO NEWS E-BLOCK: Diving the USS Oriskany Cave conservation and One-year anniversary episode. Wed, 02 Aug 2006 14:19:00 +0000 01:03:15 false 2 41 full B-BLOCK: One-year anniversary episode. C-BLOCK: Aquatic Cave conservation with Ralph D of NSS-CDS. D-BLOCK: Listing of podcast subjects from year 1. E-BLOCK: OMS discusses their new HID light. THE PHANTOM. F-BLOCK: Don Tipton talks about photography and the PADI diving society.B-BLOCK: One-year anniversary episode. C-BLOCK: Aquatic Cave conservation with Ralph D of NSS-CDS. D-BLOCK: Listing of podcast subjects from year 1. E-BLOCK: OMS discusses their new HID light. THE PHANTOM. F-BLOCK: Don Tipton talks about photography and the PADI diving society. Physical Fitness and the Technical Diver Mon, 31 Jul 2006 02:05:00 +0000 21:49 false 2 37 full Karl Shreeves of PADI DSAT discusses physical fitness and technical diving.Karl Shreeves of PADI DSAT discusses physical fitness and technical diving. From Lake Mead to Low Earth Orbit: DAN Safety, Desert Wrecks & NASA's Dive Lab Sun, 02 Jul 2006 21:38:00 +0000 00 false 2 39 full Joseph Cocozza In this extended episode of Pod Diver Radio, we cover a lot of water. We kick off with a chat about training, cave plans, and knowing when to call a dive before an injury calls you. From there, we jump to New York City, where podcasting and media trends at NYU's Tisch School of the Arts meet grassroots scuba storytelling. The main feature is a deep-dive interview with Dan Orr, President & CEO of Divers Alert Network (DAN). Dan walks through how DAN began as a single emergency hotline, how today's medical and safety services work for divers worldwide, and why member support and research projects like Project Dive Exploration matter for every dive you make. We also hear about upcoming workshops on topics like asthma, diabetes, and remote decompression illness—and how those findings shape safer recreational and technical diving. Then we head underwater in unexpected places: Wrecks in the desert – Side-scan sonar hunter Greg Mikolajczyk talks about locating aircraft and boat wrecks in Lake Mead, including a remarkably preserved B-29 bomber in deep freshwater. NASA's Neutral Buoyancy Lab – Jack Stanton from Ocean Management Systems (OMS) explains how NASA's support divers train astronauts underwater, why OMS gear was selected for the NBL, and what it takes to run a six-million-gallon "space pool" with aerospace-level standards for gas, cleanliness, and equipment. Sprinkled throughout are shout-outs to local Northeast shops, tech gas fills, and ways you can support the show and the broader dive community. Whether you're a new diver, wreck junkie, or just fascinated by the overlap between space and sea, this episode has something to splash into.In this extended episode of Pod Diver Radio, we cover a lot of water. We kick off with a chat about training, cave plans, and knowing when to call a dive before an injury calls you. From there, we jump to New York City, where podcasting and media trends at NYU's Tisch School of the Arts meet grassroots scuba storytelling. The main feature is a deep-dive interview with Dan Orr, President & CEO of Divers Alert Network (DAN). Dan walks through how DAN began as a single emergency hotline, how today's medical and safety services work for divers worldwide, and why member support and research projects like Project Dive Exploration matter for every dive you make. We also hear about upcoming workshops on topics like asthma, diabetes, and remote decompression illness—and how those findings shape safer recreational and technical diving. Then we head underwater in unexpected places: Wrecks in the desert – Side-scan sonar hunter Greg Mikolajczyk talks about locating aircraft and boat wrecks in Lake Mead, including a remarkably preserved B-29 bomber in deep freshwater. NASA's Neutral Buoyancy Lab – Jack Stanton from Ocean Management Systems (OMS) explains how NASA's support divers train astronauts underwater, why OMS gear was selected for the NBL, and what it takes to run a six-million-gallon "space pool" with aerospace-level standards for gas, cleanliness, and equipment. Sprinkled throughout are shout-outs to local Northeast shops, tech gas fills, and ways you can support the show and the broader dive community. Whether you're a new diver, wreck junkie, or just fascinated by the overlap between space and sea, this episode has something to splash into. OMS HQ to the HMS Victoria: Tech Gear, Cave Lines & Diving on Vertical Battleships Sun, 18 Jun 2006 20:49:00 +0000 01:33:09 false 2 38 full Joseph Cocozza On this extended tech-diving edition of Pod Diver Radio, we start in the woods of upstate New York at OMS headquarters and end 420 feet down on a British battleship standing vertically on the seafloor. First, Joe visits OMS HQ and sits down with Technical Director Jack Stanton to talk about how OMS was born in the cold, deep wrecks of the Northeast, grew up alongside the early "outlaw" days of tech diving, and now outfits everyone from wreck and cave divers to NASA's Neutral Buoyancy Lab astronauts. Jack walks us through OMS harnesses, manifolds, lights and how tech gear has evolved from "weird stuff on the dive boat" to mainstream tools for advanced divers. Then we head to Mexico's Yucatán with cave diver, videographer, and former Marine Corps aviator Len Bucko. Len connects cockpit discipline to cave protocols, shares stories of early cenote exploration, Mayan history, haloclines, jungle hammocks, and what it really feels like to lay first line in virgin cave. Back at OMS, Jack returns to detail the new Larry Green cave wing—a narrow, long, non-bungeed BC designed specifically for cave divers—plus updated Slipstream fins, spring straps, and why different environments demand different rigs for wrecks vs. caves. We wrap in High Springs, Florida, where Joe bumps into Christian Francis of Lebanon Divers and dives into the discovery of the long-lost HMS Victoria off Tripoli: a 19th-century British battleship that sank bow-first and now sits perfectly vertical in 150 meters of water. Christian shares the search, the first descents, and the incredible naval history behind Admiral Tryon's fatal maneuver. If you're into OMS gear, cave diving, Northeast wrecks, deep Mediterranean history, and serious tech diving storytelling, this episode is for you. DOWNLOAD AND LISTEN TO AUDIO FILE HEREOn this extended tech-diving edition of Pod Diver Radio, we start in the woods of upstate New York at OMS headquarters and end 420 feet down on a British battleship standing vertically on the seafloor. First, Joe visits OMS HQ and sits down with Technical Director Jack Stanton to talk about how OMS was born in the cold, deep wrecks of the Northeast, grew up alongside the early "outlaw" days of tech diving, and now outfits everyone from wreck and cave divers to NASA's Neutral Buoyancy Lab astronauts. Jack walks us through OMS harnesses, manifolds, lights and how tech gear has evolved from "weird stuff on the dive boat" to mainstream tools for advanced divers. Then we head to Mexico's Yucatán with cave diver, videographer, and former Marine Corps aviator Len Bucko. Len connects cockpit discipline to cave protocols, shares stories of early cenote exploration, Mayan history, haloclines, jungle hammocks, and what it really feels like to lay first line in virgin cave. Back at OMS, Jack returns to detail the new Larry Green cave wing—a narrow, long, non-bungeed BC designed specifically for cave divers—plus updated Slipstream fins, spring straps, and why different environments demand different rigs for wrecks vs. caves. We wrap in High Springs, Florida, where Joe bumps into Christian Francis of Lebanon Divers and dives into the discovery of the long-lost HMS Victoria off Tripoli: a 19th-century British battleship that sank bow-first and now sits perfectly vertical in 150 meters of water. Christian shares the search, the first descents, and the incredible naval history behind Admiral Tryon's fatal maneuver. If you're into OMS gear, cave diving, Northeast wrecks, deep Mediterranean history, and serious tech diving storytelling, this episode is for you. DOWNLOAD AND LISTEN TO AUDIO FILE HERE SPORT DIVER MAGAZINE HQ Sat, 20 May 2006 13:12:00 +0000 51:40 false 2 36 full PD36: 1. VR3 Dive Computer 2. SPORT DIVER INTERACTIVE. 3. Captain Gary K. interview. Tech diving on the Island of St Vincent's. 4. Dive Alert.PD36: 1. VR3 Dive Computer 2. SPORT DIVER INTERACTIVE. 3. Captain Gary K. interview. Tech diving on the Island of St Vincent's. 4. Dive Alert. Basic Scuba Course to Forty Fathoms Deep: DAN Physiology, St. Lawrence Wrecks & Diving Legend "Hal Watts" Tue, 25 Apr 2006 02:56:00 +0000 00 false 2 35 full Joseph Cocozza On this episode of Pod Diver Radio, host Joe Cocozza and Rescue Diver Rachel kick things off with a chilly New Jersey reality check: teaching a PADI Open Water Diver class in a just-opened backyard pool on a 48°F rainy day. From gear selection at Divers Two to managing nervous new students (including one worried about things that might eat her in the water), Joe walks through how he introduces masks, fins and snorkels, pool skills, and the path from first bubbles to future wreck and cave dives. In segment two, Joe heads to Beneath the Sea for a sit-down with Donna from Divers Alert Network (DAN), a diving physiologist and Women Divers Hall of Fame inductee. They dive into hyperbaric physiology, including DAN's long-running flying after diving studies at the Duke chamber, how Doppler and echocardiography are used to detect bubbles, what current research says about women and diving, and new guidelines for diabetic divers and technical divers whose downloadable dive computers are feeding DAN's next generation of safety data. Next, tech diver, journalist and inspiration diver Rosemary Lund joins Joe to talk about diving the St. Lawrence Seaway / Thousand Islands. She paints a vivid picture of warm, clear freshwater wrecks like the Gaskin and Keystorm—intact hulls, timber and decking preserved for decades, 60-foot visibility thanks to zebra mussels, and long multi-level profiles that let you tour deep and shallow sections in a single dive. Rosemary also shares practical notes on rebreather travel and logistics for UK and international divers heading to North America. Finally, Joe sits down with deep-diving legend Hal Watts, founder of PSAI (Professional Scuba Association International) and owner of Forty Fathom Grotto in Ocala, Florida. Hal recalls the early days of "deep air" before anyone called it technical diving, talks about narcosis management, why he created an extended-range training agency, how performance-based depth limits work on PSAI cards, and what today's aspiring tech divers should look for in an instructor and training site. From freezing pool sessions with brand-new students to 240-foot sinkholes and North American wrecks, this episode spans the full arc of recreational to technical diving—with physiology, history, and a few good war stories along the way.On this episode of Pod Diver Radio, host Joe Cocozza and Rescue Diver Rachel kick things off with a chilly New Jersey reality check: teaching a PADI Open Water Diver class in a just-opened backyard pool on a 48°F rainy day. From gear selection at Divers Two to managing nervous new students (including one worried about things that might eat her in the water), Joe walks through how he introduces masks, fins and snorkels, pool skills, and the path from first bubbles to future wreck and cave dives. In segment two, Joe heads to Beneath the Sea for a sit-down with Donna from Divers Alert Network (DAN), a diving physiologist and Women Divers Hall of Fame inductee. They dive into hyperbaric physiology, including DAN's long-running flying after diving studies at the Duke chamber, how Doppler and echocardiography are used to detect bubbles, what current research says about women and diving, and new guidelines for diabetic divers and technical divers whose downloadable dive computers are feeding DAN's next generation of safety data. Next, tech diver, journalist and inspiration diver Rosemary Lund joins Joe to talk about diving the St. Lawrence Seaway / Thousand Islands. She paints a vivid picture of warm, clear freshwater wrecks like the Gaskin and Keystorm—intact hulls, timber and decking preserved for decades, 60-foot visibility thanks to zebra mussels, and long multi-level profiles that let you tour deep and shallow sections in a single dive. Rosemary also shares practical notes on rebreather travel and logistics for UK and international divers heading to North America. Finally, Joe sits down with deep-diving legend Hal Watts, founder of PSAI (Professional Scuba Association International) and owner of Forty Fathom Grotto in Ocala, Florida. Hal recalls the early days of "deep air" before anyone called it technical diving, talks about narcosis management, why he created an extended-range training agency, how performance-based depth limits work on PSAI cards, and what today's aspiring tech divers should look for in an instructor and training site. From freezing pool sessions with brand-new students to 240-foot sinkholes and North American wrecks, this episode spans the full arc of recreational to technical diving—with physiology, history, and a few good war stories along the way. Dry Suits, Rebreathers and Diver Medic Training. Sun, 09 Apr 2006 17:31:00 +0000 39:25 false 2 34 full Jospeh Cocozza MSDT 1. Interview with Susan Long of DUI Drysuits 2. Eric Douglas of DAN discusses advanced diver medic training. 3. Interview with Martian Parker. Martian is the CEO of AP Diving, the mfg of the Inspiration and Evolution Rebreathers. LISTEN TO AUDIO HERE1. Interview with Susan Long of DUI Drysuits 2. Eric Douglas of DAN discusses advanced diver medic training. 3. Interview with Martian Parker. Martian is the CEO of AP Diving, the mfg of the Inspiration and Evolution Rebreathers. LISTEN TO AUDIO HERE Sound Scene Tour BTS 2006 Tue, 04 Apr 2006 13:06:00 +0000 50:23 false 2 33 full BENEATH THE SEA 2006. Joe and Rachel talk with Dive Heart Foundation. We have a winner for the BOOK "SHADOW DIVERS?. We talk with Mike Fowler of Silent Diving Systems about the Inspiration and Evolution Rebreathers.BENEATH THE SEA 2006. Joe and Rachel talk with Dive Heart Foundation. We have a winner for the BOOK "SHADOW DIVERS?. We talk with Mike Fowler of Silent Diving Systems about the Inspiration and Evolution Rebreathers. The Beneath The Sea Show Interviews. Sat, 18 Mar 2006 18:03:00 +0000 15:57 false 2 32 full PRE BENEATH THE SEA EPISODE. Dan Crowell talks about rebreathers. Terrance Tysall talks about the Cambrian Foundation.PRE BENEATH THE SEA EPISODE. Dan Crowell talks about rebreathers. Terrance Tysall talks about the Cambrian Foundation. Diving New Jersey and Tysall Interview Sun, 12 Mar 2006 00:31:00 +0000 29:57 false 2 32 full 1. Divers Two Dive Center in AVON by the SEA NJ. 2. Terrance Tysall of the Benthic Technologies discussing Side Mount and No Mount? Cave diving?. 3. We also go over New Jersey shipwreck diving, Shadow Divers giveaway, Andrea Doria trip and BTS 2006 update.1. Divers Two Dive Center in AVON by the SEA NJ. 2. Terrance Tysall of the Benthic Technologies discussing Side Mount and No Mount? Cave diving?. 3. We also go over New Jersey shipwreck diving, Shadow Divers giveaway, Andrea Doria trip and BTS 2006 update. Cave Diving: gas management & aquatic speliobiolgy Sat, 04 Mar 2006 04:56:00 +0000 32:12 false 2 30 full Ralph DiPanfilo of NSS-CDS discusses gas management for cave diving. Terrence Tysall of the Cambrian foundation discussed Aquatic Speliobiolgy. Aka "cave critters?Ralph DiPanfilo of NSS-CDS discusses gas management for cave diving. Terrence Tysall of the Cambrian foundation discussed Aquatic Speliobiolgy. Aka "cave critters? ANDI, MEG CCR and Cave Diving Sat, 18 Feb 2006 02:00:00 +0000 28:14 false 2 29 full ANDI - MEG CCR and cave diving - Drysuit RepairANDI - MEG CCR and cave diving - Drysuit Repair Riviera Maya Cave Diving & 450ft Guadalcanal Wrecks with Instructor-Trainer Matt from ProTec Sun, 05 Feb 2006 01:19:00 +0000 47:41 false 2 28 full Joseph Cocozza MSDT In this extended episode of Pod Diver Radio, host Joe Cocozza sits down on the Riviera Maya with Matt, co-owner of ProTec and one of the few instructor-trainer-trainers in technical and cave diving—he's the guy who trains the teachers who train the teachers. Matt traces his path from open water instructor in Thailand, Egypt, and Honduras to high-end tech and cave explorer. He shares stories from classic Cambrian Foundation expeditions with Terrence Tysall, including deep trimix dives on the Blue Hole and open-circuit exploration of the USS Atlanta around 425–450 feet in the Solomon Islands' Iron Bottom Sound. Then the conversation moves underground to Mexico's Yucatán Peninsula—why he moved there, what makes Riviera Maya cenote caves so unique (warm, clear water, easy access, massive speleothems, surreal haloclines), and how landowner relations, Mayan beliefs, and cave conservation all intersect. If you're into tech, wrecks, or Mexican cave diving, this episode is a must-listen.In this extended episode of Pod Diver Radio, host Joe Cocozza sits down on the Riviera Maya with Matt, co-owner of ProTec and one of the few instructor-trainer-trainers in technical and cave diving—he's the guy who trains the teachers who train the teachers. Matt traces his path from open water instructor in Thailand, Egypt, and Honduras to high-end tech and cave explorer. He shares stories from classic Cambrian Foundation expeditions with Terrence Tysall, including deep trimix dives on the Blue Hole and open-circuit exploration of the USS Atlanta around 425–450 feet in the Solomon Islands' Iron Bottom Sound. Then the conversation moves underground to Mexico's Yucatán Peninsula—why he moved there, what makes Riviera Maya cenote caves so unique (warm, clear water, easy access, massive speleothems, surreal haloclines), and how landowner relations, Mayan beliefs, and cave conservation all intersect. If you're into tech, wrecks, or Mexican cave diving, this episode is a must-listen. Cenotes, Cave Lines & HID Lights: A Riviera Maya Cave Report Sat, 21 Jan 2006 15:57:00 +0000 35:20 false 2 25 full Joseph Cocozza Sound Scene Tour of cave diving the Rivera Maya: In this milestone 25th episode of Pod Diver Radio, Joe and Rescue Diver Rachel kick things off with a debrief from Joe's first big cave expedition to Mexico's Riviera Maya. Strap on your doubles and follow an immersive sound-scene tour through legendary cenote systems like Car Wash, Tortuga, Maya Blue, and Nohoch as Joe navigates jungle tracks, gate keys, machetes, and crocodile rumors to reach some of the most decorated cave passages on the planet. You'll hear in-water impressions of buoyancy challenges, line work, stage drops, and what makes Mexican cave diving so different logistically (and financially) from Florida systems—plus why every serious cave diver needs to experience the Riviera Maya at least once. Back topside, Joe and Rachel dig into listener email on HID primary lights, raising smart questions about battery chemistry, cost, longevity, and safe disposal—setting up a future tech follow-up with manufacturers. The episode also features a shark photography workshop invite with Donald Tipton and Shark Research Institute at Stuart Cove's, tying blue-water big animal encounters into the tech diver mindset. If you love overhead environments, gear talk, and being "in the water" with the storyteller, this deep-cut archive episode is a perfect hit of classic Pod Diver Radio.Sound Scene Tour of cave diving the Rivera Maya: In this milestone 25th episode of Pod Diver Radio, Joe and Rescue Diver Rachel kick things off with a debrief from Joe's first big cave expedition to Mexico's Riviera Maya. Strap on your doubles and follow an immersive sound-scene tour through legendary cenote systems like Car Wash, Tortuga, Maya Blue, and Nohoch as Joe navigates jungle tracks, gate keys, machetes, and crocodile rumors to reach some of the most decorated cave passages on the planet. You'll hear in-water impressions of buoyancy challenges, line work, stage drops, and what makes Mexican cave diving so different logistically (and financially) from Florida systems—plus why every serious cave diver needs to experience the Riviera Maya at least once. Back topside, Joe and Rachel dig into listener email on HID primary lights, raising smart questions about battery chemistry, cost, longevity, and safe disposal—setting up a future tech follow-up with manufacturers. The episode also features a shark photography workshop invite with Donald Tipton and Shark Research Institute at Stuart Cove's, tying blue-water big animal encounters into the tech diver mindset. If you love overhead environments, gear talk, and being "in the water" with the storyteller, this deep-cut archive episode is a perfect hit of classic Pod Diver Radio. Richie Kohler: From U-869 to Titanic – Deep Wrecks, Dark Water & Dive Tech Sat, 07 Jan 2006 15:55:00 +0000 01:07:12 false 2 24 full Joseph Cocozza In this extended Pod Diver Radio episode, host Joe Cocozza sits down in what feels like a private shipwreck museum—wreck diving legend Richie Kohler's own home. Surrounded by engine order telegraphs, compasses, wheels and a six-foot model of U-869, Richie traces a lifetime of hardcore wreck diving, artifact hunting, and the stories behind the gear pulled up from the bottom. Richie shares the inside story of his History Channel "Deep Sea Detectives" days and the ambitious expedition to RMS Titanic aboard the Russian research vessel Keldysh. He takes us into the cramped MIR sub, two and a half miles down, to "have lunch on Titanic" and search for never-before-seen wreckage that challenged old assumptions about how the ship broke apart and sank. We also geek out on tech: deep HID lighting in zero ambient light, the evolution from lantern-style halogen cans to compact HID systems, and what it's like to work with Woods Hole cameras and $80,000 deep-sea lights. Richie then pivots to Loch Ness, the Great Lakes, cave diving in Florida, CCR cave training, and his upcoming Dive Portal video magazine projects—from Blue Hole 400 ft dives to exotic and local destinations alike. If you're into wrecks, tech, history, and hard-earned experience from one of the most respected names in diving, this long-form conversation is pure gold.In this extended Pod Diver Radio episode, host Joe Cocozza sits down in what feels like a private shipwreck museum—wreck diving legend Richie Kohler's own home. Surrounded by engine order telegraphs, compasses, wheels and a six-foot model of U-869, Richie traces a lifetime of hardcore wreck diving, artifact hunting, and the stories behind the gear pulled up from the bottom. Richie shares the inside story of his History Channel "Deep Sea Detectives" days and the ambitious expedition to RMS Titanic aboard the Russian research vessel Keldysh. He takes us into the cramped MIR sub, two and a half miles down, to "have lunch on Titanic" and search for never-before-seen wreckage that challenged old assumptions about how the ship broke apart and sank. We also geek out on tech: deep HID lighting in zero ambient light, the evolution from lantern-style halogen cans to compact HID systems, and what it's like to work with Woods Hole cameras and $80,000 deep-sea lights. Richie then pivots to Loch Ness, the Great Lakes, cave diving in Florida, CCR cave training, and his upcoming Dive Portal video magazine projects—from Blue Hole 400 ft dives to exotic and local destinations alike. If you're into wrecks, tech, history, and hard-earned experience from one of the most respected names in diving, this long-form conversation is pure gold. From Freediving World Records to CCR Skills: Martin Stepanek's Breath-Hold Masterclass Wed, 04 Jan 2006 14:35:00 +0000 12:47 false 2 23 full Joseph Cocozza In this special crossover episode of Pod Diver Radio, host Joe Cocozza sits down with world champion freediver Martin Stepanek to explore how elite breath-hold techniques can benefit CCR and technical divers. Martin shares his journey from Czech pool sprints with a monofin to setting seven world records, including 80 m (267 ft) constant weight without fins, 102 m (≈341 ft) free immersion, 136 m (≈460 ft) variable ballast, and an 8-minute-06-second static apnea. Martin explains how he and his partner Mandy-Rae built Performance Freediving into an international education system, blending pranayama-style breathing, mental training, and hard data from researchers at Simon Fraser and Harvard Medical. He breaks down practical tools CCR and tech divers can apply right away: CO₂ tolerance, breath control, reading early hypoxia signs (loss of color, tunnel vision), buddy protocols, and why you should never push limits alone in a pool or hot tub. Whether you dive closed-circuit rebreathers, open-circuit trimix, or you're just CCR-curious, this episode shows how structured freediving training can sharpen your awareness, improve gas management, and make you a safer, more relaxed technical diver. Stay to the end for a preview of our upcoming episodes with Karl Shreeves (PADI DSAT) on fitness for technical divers, Dr. Bruce Wienke on the RGBM decompression model, and a breakdown of the KISS rebreather.In this special crossover episode of Pod Diver Radio, host Joe Cocozza sits down with world champion freediver Martin Stepanek to explore how elite breath-hold techniques can benefit CCR and technical divers. Martin shares his journey from Czech pool sprints with a monofin to setting seven world records, including 80 m (267 ft) constant weight without fins, 102 m (≈341 ft) free immersion, 136 m (≈460 ft) variable ballast, and an 8-minute-06-second static apnea. Martin explains how he and his partner Mandy-Rae built Performance Freediving into an international education system, blending pranayama-style breathing, mental training, and hard data from researchers at Simon Fraser and Harvard Medical. He breaks down practical tools CCR and tech divers can apply right away: CO₂ tolerance, breath control, reading early hypoxia signs (loss of color, tunnel vision), buddy protocols, and why you should never push limits alone in a pool or hot tub. Whether you dive closed-circuit rebreathers, open-circuit trimix, or you're just CCR-curious, this episode shows how structured freediving training can sharpen your awareness, improve gas management, and make you a safer, more relaxed technical diver. Stay to the end for a preview of our upcoming episodes with Karl Shreeves (PADI DSAT) on fitness for technical divers, Dr. Bruce Wienke on the RGBM decompression model, and a breakdown of the KISS rebreather. How to photograph sharks Sat, 03 Dec 2005 15:05:00 +0000 20:14 false 1 19 full PD19: Underwater filmmaker Don Tipton, discusses the techniques on how to photograph sharks. Don also talks about Shark Research Int and Stuarts Cove.PD19: Underwater filmmaker Don Tipton, discusses the techniques on how to photograph sharks. Don also talks about Shark Research Int and Stuarts Cove. Cave Diving the Springs of Northern Florida in 2005 Wed, 16 Nov 2005 01:15:00 +0000 ]]> ]]> 51:40 false 1 17 full Joseph Cocozza Episode Description Attention deck divers, wreck divers, cave divers, freedivers and other creatures of deep water—this one's for you. In this episode of Pod Diver Radio, host Joe Cocozza takes you on a sound-scene tour of a classic North Florida cave diving trip, recorded on the road and underground in the springs country. Joe kicks things off back in the Jagermeer Studios in New Jersey with Rescue Diver Rachel, explaining the "hardcore diver" mindset and what Pod Diver Radio is all about: technical diving, mixed gas, wrecks, caves, cold-water die-hards, and passionate scuba geeks. They talk show format, back episodes, Pod Diver TV, and why New Jersey New Year's Day dives with ice on your mask definitely qualify as "hardcore." Then we head south to Lauraville, Florida, and drop into a week of cave diving: Setting up at Cave Excursions and warming up at Telford Multiple dives at Peacock Springs / Orange Grove / Olson Sink Gear, gas fills, reels, cookies, jumps and real-world cave planning A drift and cave day at Ginnie Springs through the Devil's Eye / Devil's Ear system Along the way Joe and his buddies talk through dive plans, gas thirds, navigation, and the feel of Florida karst—Swiss-cheese limestone walls, duckweed-covered sinks, and crystal-clear water—plus the critters you meet underground and in the river: albino cave crayfish, turtles, perch and pike. On site at Peacock Springs, Joe grabs an impromptu interview with Ralph De Panfilo of the NSS-CDS (National Speleological Society – Cave Diving Section). Ralph shares how he went from California kelp to Florida caves, what drew him into more than 800 cave dives, the mission of NSS-CDS, and why organized training, conservation, and access are critical if we want to keep cave sites open for future divers. Finally, Joe and Rachel pull the long-awaited winner of the Donald Tipton coffee-table book "Upon the Face of the Waters"—a celebration of large marine mammals and underwater photography—and wrap up with reminders to email in, check out Pod Diver TV, and download those back episodes. If you're into cave diving, tech training, Florida springs or just the culture of hardcore divers, this episode puts you right in the truck, at the fill station, and under the limestone with the team. Dive long, dive hard, dive deep—be a Pod Diver. *]:pointer-events-auto scroll-mt-[calc(var(--header-height)+min(200px,max(70px,20svh)))]" dir="auto" tabindex="-1" data-turn-id= "36be5f2f-53c5-4e89-913a-ac40bc9fdba3" data-testid= "conversation-turn-8" data-scroll-anchor="true" data-turn= "assistant"Episode Description Attention deck divers, wreck divers, cave divers, freedivers and other creatures of deep water—this one's for you. In this episode of Pod Diver Radio, host Joe Cocozza takes you on a sound-scene tour of a classic North Florida cave diving trip, recorded on the road and underground in the springs country. Joe kicks things off back in the Jagermeer Studios in New Jersey with Rescue Diver Rachel, explaining the "hardcore diver" mindset and what Pod Diver Radio is all about: technical diving, mixed gas, wrecks, caves, cold-water die-hards, and passionate scuba geeks. They talk show format, back episodes, Pod Diver TV, and why New Jersey New Year's Day dives with ice on your mask definitely qualify as "hardcore." Then we head south to Lauraville, Florida, and drop into a week of cave diving: Setting up at Cave Excursions and warming up at Telford Multiple dives at Peacock Springs / Orange Grove / Olson Sink Gear, gas fills, reels, cookies, jumps and real-world cave planning A drift and cave day at Ginnie Springs through the Devil's Eye / Devil's Ear system Along the way Joe and his buddies talk through dive plans, gas thirds, navigation, and the feel of Florida karst—Swiss-cheese limestone walls, duckweed-covered sinks, and crystal-clear water—plus the critters you meet underground and in the river: albino cave crayfish, turtles, perch and pike. On site at Peacock Springs, Joe grabs an impromptu interview with Ralph De Panfilo of the NSS-CDS (National Speleological Society – Cave Diving Section). Ralph shares how he went from California kelp to Florida caves, what drew him into more than 800 cave dives, the mission of NSS-CDS, and why organized training, conservation, and access are critical if we want to keep cave sites open for future divers. Finally, Joe and Rachel pull the long-awaited winner of the Donald Tipton coffee-table book "Upon the Face of the Waters"—a celebration of large marine mammals and underwater photography—and wrap up with reminders to email in, check out Pod Diver TV, and download those back episodes. If you're into cave diving, tech training, Florida springs or just the culture of hardcore divers, this episode puts you right in the truck, at the fill station, and under the limestone with the team. Dive long, dive hard, dive deep—be a Pod Diver. *]:pointer-events-auto scroll-mt-[calc(var(--header-height)+min(200px,max(70px,20svh)))]" dir="auto" tabindex="-1" data-turn-id= "36be5f2f-53c5-4e89-913a-ac40bc9fdba3" data-testid= "conversation-turn-8" data-scroll-anchor="true" data-turn= "assistant" NAUI TEC Program & Prizm CCR Sat, 05 Nov 2005 23:48:00 +0000 59:45 false 1 16 full Tim O'Leary Director of Technical Diving for NAUI. Peter Ready of STEAM MACHINES, maker of the Prizm Topaz rebreather.Tim O'Leary Director of Technical Diving for NAUI. Peter Ready of STEAM MACHINES, maker of the Prizm Topaz rebreather. Inside RGBM: Deep Stops, KISS Rebreathers. he Physics Behind Tech Diving Sat, 29 Oct 2005 15:55:00 +0000 44:20 false 1 15 full Joseph Cocozza n this two-segment episode of Pod Diver Radio, we blend cutting-edge decompression theory with real-world tech diving gear and introduce a new voice to the show. First, we go full decompression geek with physicist Dr. Bruce Wienke of Los Alamos National Laboratory, the mind behind the Reduced Gradient Bubble Model (RGBM). Bruce explains how bubble mechanics changed the way tech divers plan deco, why deep stops became standard in technical training, and how modern dive computers and tables are built from massive datasets instead of "bend 'em and mend 'em" sheep experiments. We wrap with a look inside the KISS Classic and KISS Sport rebreathers from Jetsam Technologies. Electronics guru Dave Dillabough breaks down the KISS philosophy—mechanical constant-flow O₂, diver-driven PO₂ control, triple independent cell displays, integrated bailout, and trimix-capable diluent setups in a travel-friendly package. If you care about RGBM, deep stops, and robust closed-circuit design, this episode is pure tech diver candy.n this two-segment episode of Pod Diver Radio, we blend cutting-edge decompression theory with real-world tech diving gear and introduce a new voice to the show. First, we go full decompression geek with physicist Dr. Bruce Wienke of Los Alamos National Laboratory, the mind behind the Reduced Gradient Bubble Model (RGBM). Bruce explains how bubble mechanics changed the way tech divers plan deco, why deep stops became standard in technical training, and how modern dive computers and tables are built from massive datasets instead of "bend 'em and mend 'em" sheep experiments. We wrap with a look inside the KISS Classic and KISS Sport rebreathers from Jetsam Technologies. Electronics guru Dave Dillabough breaks down the KISS philosophy—mechanical constant-flow O₂, diver-driven PO₂ control, triple independent cell displays, integrated bailout, and trimix-capable diluent setups in a travel-friendly package. If you care about RGBM, deep stops, and robust closed-circuit design, this episode is pure tech diver candy. Fit to Dive: Tech Diving Fitness & Mindset with PADI's Karl Shreeves Mon, 24 Oct 2005 14:41:00 +0000 20:25 false 1 14 full Joseph Cocozza In this episode of Pod Diver Radio, Joe sits down with PADI Vice President of Technical Development Karl Shreeves to talk about the one piece of "equipment" tech divers too often ignore: their own bodies and brains. Karl draws on decades of experience—from deep wrecks like the Monitor to exploratory cave projects in Mexico and cold, dark Missouri systems—to break down what it really takes to be a safe, effective technical diver as you get older and busier with life. They dig into: Why fitness is a decompression variable and how strength + cardio training improve your margin for error How aging divers can rebuild capacity with resistance training, smart cardio, and sane nutrition The role of diet, body fat, and smoking in decompression stress and long-term dive health The crucial mental skill in tech diving: discipline—knowing when to say no to a dive, even after big travel and time investments Real-world stories of calling a 300 ft cave dive and shutting down a sketchy live-boat plan despite peer pressure Why every serious cave and tech team should live by "any diver can call any dive, any time, for any reason" Whether you're a cave diver pushing scooters and stages, or a wreck diver thinking about your first trimix course, this episode is a blueprint for keeping your head, heart, and muscles in the game for the long haul.In this episode of Pod Diver Radio, Joe sits down with PADI Vice President of Technical Development Karl Shreeves to talk about the one piece of "equipment" tech divers too often ignore: their own bodies and brains. Karl draws on decades of experience—from deep wrecks like the Monitor to exploratory cave projects in Mexico and cold, dark Missouri systems—to break down what it really takes to be a safe, effective technical diver as you get older and busier with life. They dig into: Why fitness is a decompression variable and how strength + cardio training improve your margin for error How aging divers can rebuild capacity with resistance training, smart cardio, and sane nutrition The role of diet, body fat, and smoking in decompression stress and long-term dive health The crucial mental skill in tech diving: discipline—knowing when to say no to a dive, even after big travel and time investments Real-world stories of calling a 300 ft cave dive and shutting down a sketchy live-boat plan despite peer pressure Why every serious cave and tech team should live by "any diver can call any dive, any time, for any reason" Whether you're a cave diver pushing scooters and stages, or a wreck diver thinking about your first trimix course, this episode is a blueprint for keeping your head, heart, and muscles in the game for the long haul. One Breath, Big Science: Martin Stepanek & Dr. Richard Vann on Freediving and Deep Physiology Sat, 15 Oct 2005 23:41:00 +0000 44:05 false 1 13 full Joseph Cocozza In this episode of Pod Diver Radio, we connect the dots between cutting-edge dive physiology and world-class freediving performance. First, Joe and Rescue Diver Rachel sit down with Dr. Richard Vann of Divers Alert Network (DAN) and Duke University. Dr. Vann breaks down the science of hyperbaric and hypobaric physiology—how gases, pressure, and decompression stress really affect the human body. While much of his work comes from technical and commercial diving, the concepts of CO₂ retention, inert gas loading, deep stops, and thermal stress are directly relevant to serious freedivers pushing depth and duration. Then we switch to pure breath-hold. Junior diver Ariel reviews the freediving documentary Cayman 2005: Diver Down, and Joe talks with 7-time world record freediver Martin Stepanek. Martin shares: How he progressed from monofin pool sprinting to dives beyond 100m / 330 ft on one breath What it actually feels like to do an 8-minute static apnea The training philosophy behind Performance Freediving International (PFI) How yoga-inspired breathing, relaxation, and pranayama integrate into modern freedive training Early warning signs of hypoxia and blackout (tunnel vision, color loss) and why safety protocols and a trained buddy are non-negotiable Why freediving is not about being a freak or "half-dolphin," but about trainable technique and progressive adaptation If you're a freediver who loves both data and depth—equal parts physiology nerd and line-diving addict—this episode will feed your brain and your next training cycle.In this episode of Pod Diver Radio, we connect the dots between cutting-edge dive physiology and world-class freediving performance. First, Joe and Rescue Diver Rachel sit down with Dr. Richard Vann of Divers Alert Network (DAN) and Duke University. Dr. Vann breaks down the science of hyperbaric and hypobaric physiology—how gases, pressure, and decompression stress really affect the human body. While much of his work comes from technical and commercial diving, the concepts of CO₂ retention, inert gas loading, deep stops, and thermal stress are directly relevant to serious freedivers pushing depth and duration. Then we switch to pure breath-hold. Junior diver Ariel reviews the freediving documentary Cayman 2005: Diver Down, and Joe talks with 7-time world record freediver Martin Stepanek. Martin shares: How he progressed from monofin pool sprinting to dives beyond 100m / 330 ft on one breath What it actually feels like to do an 8-minute static apnea The training philosophy behind Performance Freediving International (PFI) How yoga-inspired breathing, relaxation, and pranayama integrate into modern freedive training Early warning signs of hypoxia and blackout (tunnel vision, color loss) and why safety protocols and a trained buddy are non-negotiable Why freediving is not about being a freak or "half-dolphin," but about trainable technique and progressive adaptation If you're a freediver who loves both data and depth—equal parts physiology nerd and line-diving addict—this episode will feed your brain and your next training cycle. Tech Time with Dr. Richard Vann: Decompression Risk & the Tech Diver Wed, 05 Oct 2005 16:00:00 +0000 14:07 false 1 12 full Joseph Cocozza Decompression Safety Interview: With Dr. Richard Vann Phd of DAN. In this special "Tech Time" episode, Joe sits down with Dr. Richard Vann of Divers Alert Network (DAN) to dig into the hard numbers behind decompression risk in both recreational and technical diving. Dr. Vann breaks down real-world incidence rates of DCS, why cold-water wreck diving may carry up to 15× the risk of warm-water Caribbean profiles, and how factors like workload, temperature, and dive conditions can matter just as much as your depth-time curve. You'll hear how the U.S. Navy, North Sea commercial divers, and Gulf of Mexico operators each define "acceptable risk," and what that means for tech divers doing deep, long, or complex dives. Dr. Vann also explains why DAN needs your depth-time and gas-switch data, and makes a direct appeal to the tech and cave community to start logging and sharing dives so future decompression models can better reflect real technical profiles. We wrap with how DAN supports divers worldwide, plus a quick shout from explorer Jill Heinerth on personalized training in cave, rebreather, and imaging. If you breathe helium, run stages, or plan long deco, this one's for you.Decompression Safety Interview: With Dr. Richard Vann Phd of DAN. In this special "Tech Time" episode, Joe sits down with Dr. Richard Vann of Divers Alert Network (DAN) to dig into the hard numbers behind decompression risk in both recreational and technical diving. Dr. Vann breaks down real-world incidence rates of DCS, why cold-water wreck diving may carry up to 15× the risk of warm-water Caribbean profiles, and how factors like workload, temperature, and dive conditions can matter just as much as your depth-time curve. You'll hear how the U.S. Navy, North Sea commercial divers, and Gulf of Mexico operators each define "acceptable risk," and what that means for tech divers doing deep, long, or complex dives. Dr. Vann also explains why DAN needs your depth-time and gas-switch data, and makes a direct appeal to the tech and cave community to start logging and sharing dives so future decompression models can better reflect real technical profiles. We wrap with how DAN supports divers worldwide, plus a quick shout from explorer Jill Heinerth on personalized training in cave, rebreather, and imaging. If you breathe helium, run stages, or plan long deco, this one's for you. Gas, Gears & Graveyards: Membrane Nitrox and Deep Wreck Tech Diving Sun, 25 Sep 2005 01:02:00 +0000 20:58 false 1 9 full Joseph Cocozza Inside the Gas Room: Trimix Blending and Northeast Wreck Penetration In this tech-heavy episode of Pod Diver Radio, Joe and Rescue Diver Rachel broadcast from the New Jersey shore and dive into the infrastructure behind serious diving: gas systems, deep wrecks, and how wreck and cave philosophies overlap (and don't). First up, Joe Simmons of Divers Two (Avon-by-the-Sea, NJ) takes us behind the scenes of his nitrox membrane compressor system: How membrane systems strip nitrogen and deliver banked nitrox on demand Why he moved away from partial pressure blending for day-to-day fills Using the same system to blend trimix, minimize helium waste, and hot-fill tech cylinders efficiently Real-world lessons on filtration, heat management, and why shop owners should budget for upgrades (cooling, extra filtration, helium integration) Then Capt. Dan Crowl joins Joe to talk about the evolution of technical diving—with a focus on Northeast shipwrecks versus cave diving: How cave and wreck environments drive different approaches to lines, navigation, and standardization Why a wreck's man-made structure changes how you plan penetrations compared to "wet rock" caves Environmental differences: cold, low-vis, current-swept Jersey wrecks vs. warm caves and blue-water wrecks Gear considerations for deep wrecks like the U-boat and tankers: doubles, multiple deco gases, helium-based mixes, and backup lighting Where and why divers start using trimix and how gas choices have evolved from old-school "heliair" to modern mixes If you're a technical diver, gas blender, or aspiring wreck/cave crossover diver, this episode will give you a nuts-and-bolts look at how the gas gets in your tanks—and how that gas shapes the dives you do.Inside the Gas Room: Trimix Blending and Northeast Wreck Penetration In this tech-heavy episode of Pod Diver Radio, Joe and Rescue Diver Rachel broadcast from the New Jersey shore and dive into the infrastructure behind serious diving: gas systems, deep wrecks, and how wreck and cave philosophies overlap (and don't). First up, Joe Simmons of Divers Two (Avon-by-the-Sea, NJ) takes us behind the scenes of his nitrox membrane compressor system: How membrane systems strip nitrogen and deliver banked nitrox on demand Why he moved away from partial pressure blending for day-to-day fills Using the same system to blend trimix, minimize helium waste, and hot-fill tech cylinders efficiently Real-world lessons on filtration, heat management, and why shop owners should budget for upgrades (cooling, extra filtration, helium integration) Then Capt. Dan Crowl joins Joe to talk about the evolution of technical diving—with a focus on Northeast shipwrecks versus cave diving: How cave and wreck environments drive different approaches to lines, navigation, and standardization Why a wreck's man-made structure changes how you plan penetrations compared to "wet rock" caves Environmental differences: cold, low-vis, current-swept Jersey wrecks vs. warm caves and blue-water wrecks Gear considerations for deep wrecks like the U-boat and tankers: doubles, multiple deco gases, helium-based mixes, and backup lighting Where and why divers start using trimix and how gas choices have evolved from old-school "heliair" to modern mixes If you're a technical diver, gas blender, or aspiring wreck/cave crossover diver, this episode will give you a nuts-and-bolts look at how the gas gets in your tanks—and how that gas shapes the dives you do. Black & White Below: Tech Diver's Guide to Monochrome Underwater Imaging Fri, 16 Sep 2005 12:41:00 +0000 21:35 false 1 6 full In this "short but sweet" episode of the Pod Diver ScubaCast, host Joe Cocozza spotlights one of the tech community's favorite big-animal shooters: Donald Tipton, author of On the Face of the Waters, cave diver, wreck diver, and all-around Renaissance waterman. Joe kicks things off with a profile of Don—classically trained pianist, deep cold-water wreck veteran, cave diver, and specialist in filming and photographing whales, mantas, sharks, dolphins, manatees and other supersized critters. From free diving with humpbacks to joining Joe on dark Northeast wrecks, Don brings a tech diver's mindset to underwater imagery. Then Don takes over with a focused masterclass on black-and-white underwater photography—especially relevant for tech divers who spend their time on wrecks, in caves, and in low-vis, monochrome environments: Why big animals and shipwrecks are perfect subjects for black & white. How to "see in monochrome" and pre-visualize the final image before you even drop on the wreck. Using light direction and texture (side-lighting, ambient vs strobe) to carve structure out of the gloom. Tonal separation: why some color scenes die in B&W, and how to pick scenes that will actually work in grayscale. Film vs digital workflows for converting color files into powerful monochrome images. Why practice, repetition, and time in the water (just like tech training) are the real secret to strong images. To close, Joe hands the mic to his 13-year-old daughter Ariel for a fun, diver-kid review of the movie "The Cave"—a monster flick built around extreme cave explorers in Romania and the Yucatán. It's a light finish that will still make every cave/overhead junkie smile. If you're a technical diver who loves wrecks, caves, big animals, and wants your images to look as serious as your gas plan, this episode will get you thinking differently about what you see through the viewfinder.In this "short but sweet" episode of the Pod Diver ScubaCast, host Joe Cocozza spotlights one of the tech community's favorite big-animal shooters: Donald Tipton, author of On the Face of the Waters, cave diver, wreck diver, and all-around Renaissance waterman. Joe kicks things off with a profile of Don—classically trained pianist, deep cold-water wreck veteran, cave diver, and specialist in filming and photographing whales, mantas, sharks, dolphins, manatees and other supersized critters. From free diving with humpbacks to joining Joe on dark Northeast wrecks, Don brings a tech diver's mindset to underwater imagery. Then Don takes over with a focused masterclass on black-and-white underwater photography—especially relevant for tech divers who spend their time on wrecks, in caves, and in low-vis, monochrome environments: Why big animals and shipwrecks are perfect subjects for black & white. How to "see in monochrome" and pre-visualize the final image before you even drop on the wreck. Using light direction and texture (side-lighting, ambient vs strobe) to carve structure out of the gloom. Tonal separation: why some color scenes die in B&W, and how to pick scenes that will actually work in grayscale. Film vs digital workflows for converting color files into powerful monochrome images. Why practice, repetition, and time in the water (just like tech training) are the real secret to strong images. To close, Joe hands the mic to his 13-year-old daughter Ariel for a fun, diver-kid review of the movie "The Cave"—a monster flick built around extreme cave explorers in Romania and the Yucatán. It's a light finish that will still make every cave/overhead junkie smile. If you're a technical diver who loves wrecks, caves, big animals, and wants your images to look as serious as your gas plan, this episode will get you thinking differently about what you see through the viewfinder. Remembering my Mom Sun, 01 May 2005 16:00:00 +0000 full Shark Portraits & Black-and-White Magic: Underwater Imaging with Donald Tipton Tue, 04 Jan 2005 17:00:00 +0000 14:09 false 1 19 full Joseph Cocozza In this image-driven episode of Pod Diver Radio, we dive deep into underwater photography with fine-art shooter and filmmaker Donald Tipton. If you're a photographer who loves sharks, black-and-white, or just learning how to "see" better underwater, this one's for you. Host Joe Cocozza kicks things off at Dosal Scuba Center in Middletown, NJ with operations manager and gear guru Bob Benson, introducing a new recurring segment, The Gear Bench—where Bob will break down life-support gear care and maintenance for serious divers and shooters who depend on their kit. Then we hand the mic to Donald for an extended masterclass on shark photography: Why understanding species-specific behavior (Caribbean reef sharks vs nurse sharks vs great whites) is the foundation of safe, compelling images. How pro shark wranglers at Stuart Cove's can "sculpt" an encounter with bait—controlling numbers, energy level, and positioning for both video and stills. Practical tips for lighting and composition in the blue: working fast, shooting almost intuitively, and setting exposure before the action starts. Why autofocus often fails in open-water shark scenes, and how to pre-set manual focus distances (3 ft, 5 ft, 10 ft) so you never miss the shot. The artistic power of black-and-white shark imagery—using ambient light + strobe to create graphic, monochrome portraits that really belong in B&W. Donald also previews his Stewart Cove five-day photo & video workshops with the Shark Research Institute, and talks about using digital workflows to craft dramatic black-and-white underwater images. Whether you're shooting DSLR, mirrorless, or video, this episode is packed with field-tested ideas to make your next shark dive look like a gallery show instead of a grab shot.In this image-driven episode of Pod Diver Radio, we dive deep into underwater photography with fine-art shooter and filmmaker Donald Tipton. If you're a photographer who loves sharks, black-and-white, or just learning how to "see" better underwater, this one's for you. Host Joe Cocozza kicks things off at Dosal Scuba Center in Middletown, NJ with operations manager and gear guru Bob Benson, introducing a new recurring segment, The Gear Bench—where Bob will break down life-support gear care and maintenance for serious divers and shooters who depend on their kit. Then we hand the mic to Donald for an extended masterclass on shark photography: Why understanding species-specific behavior (Caribbean reef sharks vs nurse sharks vs great whites) is the foundation of safe, compelling images. How pro shark wranglers at Stuart Cove's can "sculpt" an encounter with bait—controlling numbers, energy level, and positioning for both video and stills. Practical tips for lighting and composition in the blue: working fast, shooting almost intuitively, and setting exposure before the action starts. Why autofocus often fails in open-water shark scenes, and how to pre-set manual focus distances (3 ft, 5 ft, 10 ft) so you never miss the shot. The artistic power of black-and-white shark imagery—using ambient light + strobe to create graphic, monochrome portraits that really belong in B&W. Donald also previews his Stewart Cove five-day photo & video workshops with the Shark Research Institute, and talks about using digital workflows to craft dramatic black-and-white underwater images. Whether you're shooting DSLR, mirrorless, or video, this episode is packed with field-tested ideas to make your next shark dive look like a gallery show instead of a grab shot. Blue Beams & Burn Time: HID Lighting Deep Dive with Barry Miller Mon, 03 Jan 2005 17:00:00 +0000 16:56 false 1 3 full Joseph Cocozza In this episode, we head into the Salvo Diving workshop with Barry Miller for a masterclass on underwater lighting. Barry breaks down exactly how HID (High Intensity Discharge) lights work, why tech divers love their color temperature and insane burn times, and how ballasts, bulbs, and battery chemistry (lead acid, NiMH, lithium-ion) all fit into the equation. If you've ever wondered why a 10W HID can out-perform old 50W halogens—or what "5600K" really means underwater—this is your geeky, glowing deep dive into dive lights.In this episode, we head into the Salvo Diving workshop with Barry Miller for a masterclass on underwater lighting. Barry breaks down exactly how HID (High Intensity Discharge) lights work, why tech divers love their color temperature and insane burn times, and how ballasts, bulbs, and battery chemistry (lead acid, NiMH, lithium-ion) all fit into the equation. If you've ever wondered why a 10W HID can out-perform old 50W halogens—or what "5600K" really means underwater—this is your geeky, glowing deep dive into dive lights. From Backmount to Sidemount: Lamar Hires on the Dive Rite Transpac Sun, 02 Jan 2005 17:00:00 +0000 13:06 false 1 2 full Joseph Cocozza Episode Description In this episode of Pod Diver Radio, we're on location at Dive Rite HQ in Lake City, Florida with Lamar Hires to dive deep into the design, evolution, and versatility of the Transpac harness system. Lamar shares the origin story of the Transpac from tough expedition work in remote Japanese cave systems, and how the need to hike, crawl, and sump-dive with gear led to a soft, modular harness that could do what rigid backplates couldn't. Lamar breaks down how the Transpac scales from single-tank recreational diving to heavy doubles and into full sidemount with the Nomad system, all while maintaining fit, comfort, and familiarity. We explore the differences between UK "sump-first" sidemount roots and Florida-style cave sidemount, why sidemount is the ultimate self-sufficient / "solo-capable" rig, how it integrates with scooters, and why starting newer or smaller-framed divers (like teens) in a modular harness gives them a smoother path into technical and cave diving later onEpisode Description In this episode of Pod Diver Radio, we're on location at Dive Rite HQ in Lake City, Florida with Lamar Hires to dive deep into the design, evolution, and versatility of the Transpac harness system. Lamar shares the origin story of the Transpac from tough expedition work in remote Japanese cave systems, and how the need to hike, crawl, and sump-dive with gear led to a soft, modular harness that could do what rigid backplates couldn't. Lamar breaks down how the Transpac scales from single-tank recreational diving to heavy doubles and into full sidemount with the Nomad system, all while maintaining fit, comfort, and familiarity. We explore the differences between UK "sump-first" sidemount roots and Florida-style cave sidemount, why sidemount is the ultimate self-sufficient / "solo-capable" rig, how it integrates with scooters, and why starting newer or smaller-framed divers (like teens) in a modular harness gives them a smoother path into technical and cave diving later on P1: Philippe Cousteau Jr. Sat, 01 Jan 2005 17:00:00 +0000 17:18 false 1 1 full PD-1 Philippe Cousteau Jr. InterviewPD-1 Philippe Cousteau Jr. Interview