Deadfoot Diver Podcast

I am a 55 yr old former professional dive instructor, commercial diver and Treasure diver. I am now back diving with multiple disabilities. I have no movement in my left leg below the knee and I am blind in my left eye. Join me on my exciting new podcast where i talk about everything diving and the benefits of diving being disabled and the challenges. I have a lot of exciting guests coming along for the ride!!!

Listen on:

  • Podbean App
  • Spotify
  • Amazon Music
  • iHeartRadio
  • PlayerFM
  • Podchaser

Episodes

Tuesday Mar 11, 2025

In this inspiring episode of the Deadfoot Diver Podcast, Curt the Deadfoot Diver interviews Dave Lawrence and his son Dave Jr. from the Scuba Gym in Orlando, Florida. They discuss how Dave Jr.'s recovery from a life-threatening brain tumor and subsequent paralysis led to the founding of the Scuba Gym. The Scuba Gym specializes in using scuba diving as a therapeutic tool to help individuals with various disabilities, including paralysis, cognitive issues, and autism. Learn about the challenges and triumphs of their journey, how scuba therapy has helped Dave Jr. regain mobility, and the broader impact of their innovative approach. Don't miss this remarkable story of resilience, innovation, and hope.
📢 Check out these great resources:
🔗 My Channel:    https:/youtube.com/@deadfootdiver 
🔗 Support Me : https://buymeacoffee.com/deadfootdiver
The Scuba Gym Orlando : https://www.thescubagym.com
Scuba Gym Australia : https://thescubagym.com.au/
Diveheart: https://diveheart.org
Other Ways to Listen to The DeadfootDiver
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6jxmKX2ubO2CtBxL02qZP6?si=VXJZ2sG9QluZcE1BtwOq5w
PodBean: https://open.spotify.com/show/6jxmKX2ubO2CtBxL02qZP6?si=VXJZ2sG9QluZcE1BtwOq5w
Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/552a8ddd-0601-46b7-8904-d2c8b35fff25/deadfoot-diver-podcast
Iheart Radio https://www.iheart.com/podcast/1323-deadfoot-diver-podcast-269284925/
Player FM: https://player.fm/series/deadfoot-diver-podcast
Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/deadfoot-diver-podcast-6014538
 
 
 
00:00 Introduction to the Deadfoot Diver Podcast
00:13 Meet Dave Lawrence and Dave Jr.
02:03 David's Life-Threatening Brain Tumor
02:54 The Road to Recovery
05:20 Starting the Scuba Gym
06:10 David Jr.'s Remarkable Progress
07:42 Challenges and Triumphs in Scuba Therapy
11:09 Adaptive Scuba Programs and Techniques
15:35 Full Face Masks: Pros and Cons
20:54 Open Water Diving for Special Needs
21:58 David Jr.'s Journey with Scuba Therapy
27:24 Understanding Nerve Functions in Motion
27:55 Journey as a SCUBA Instructor
28:42 Technical Diving and Memory Challenges
30:33 Laughter and Sarcasm: Coping Mechanisms
32:33 Expanding SCUBA Gyms
32:59 Overcoming Industry Skepticism
33:59 Adaptive Diving Programs
39:21 The Importance of Passion in SCUBA Instruction
45:49 Reviving Instructor Certifications
49:04 Final Thoughts and Farewell

Tuesday Mar 04, 2025

In this episode of the Deadfoot Diver Podcast, host Curt interviews Lamar Hires, head of DiveRite and a pioneer in the diving industry. They discuss Lamar's journey in diving since 1979, his contributions to technical and cave diving equipment, and innovations like the backplate and wing, sidemount configurations, and rebreathers. The conversation also covers advancements in safety, the acceptance of Nitrox, and Lamar's personal diving experiences. The episode provides historical insights and highlights ongoing innovations in technical diving
📢 Check out these great resources:
 
🔗 My Channel:    https:/youtube.com/@deadfootdiver 
🔗 Support Me : https://buymeacoffee.com/deadfootdiver
The Scuba Gym Orlando : https://www.thescubagym.com
Scuba Gym Australia : https://thescubagym.com.au/
Diveheart: https://diveheart.org
Other Ways to Listen to The DeadfootDiver
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6jxmKX2ubO2CtBxL02qZP6?si=VXJZ2sG9QluZcE1BtwOq5w
PodBean: https://open.spotify.com/show/6jxmKX2ubO2CtBxL02qZP6?si=VXJZ2sG9QluZcE1BtwOq5w
Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/552a8ddd-0601-46b7-8904-d2c8b35fff25/deadfoot-diver-podcast
Iheart Radio https://www.iheart.com/podcast/1323-deadfoot-diver-podcast-269284925/
Player FM: https://player.fm/series/deadfoot-diver-podcast
Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/deadfoot-diver-podcast-6014538
💬 Let us know your thoughts in the comments, and don't forget to like, share, and subscribe for more diving stories and interviews with legends of the underwater world, and remember Grab an Adventure and Live!
00:00 Introduction to the Deadfoot Diver Podcast
00:43 Lamar Hires' Journey into Diving
03:59 The Evolution of Cave Diving Gear
06:50 Standardizing Diving Equipment
09:01 The Rise of Sidemount Diving
14:00 Personal Experiences with Sidemount Diving
17:31 Old Gear and New Challenges
19:34 The Optima ReBreather Development
22:19 Advancements in Technical Diving
26:00 The Rise of Nitrox Dive Computers
27:55 Ensuring Safety with the Optima Rebreather
30:33 Exploring the Benefits of Chest Mount Rebreathers
35:53 New Innovations in Diving Equipment
39:56 Cave Exploration and Diving Experiences
44:41 Choosing Between Open Circuit and Rebreather Diving
47:54 Conclusion and Future Plans

Sunday Mar 02, 2025

In this episode of the Deadfoot Diver Podcast, Curt, the Deadfoot Diver, welcomes Steve Davis, owner of sidemountpros.com and host of the Speaking Sidemount podcast. Together, they discuss Steve's journey into diving, starting from childhood influences to his extensive experience in sidemount and cave diving. Steve shares his insights on the advantages of sidemount diving, especially for divers with disabilities, and describes his experiences as the marine engineer of the HMNZS Canterbury, now an artificial reef. They also delve into technical aspects, such as equipment setup, and various training courses offered by Steve. Tune in for a deep dive into the technicalities and personal stories linked to sidemount diving.
📢 Check out these great resources:
Steve Davis: sidemountpros.com
🔗 My Channel:  Deadfoot Diver Youtube  🔗 Support Me : https://buymeacoffee.com/deadfootdiverThe Scuba Gym Orlando : https://www.thescubagym.comScuba Gym Australia : https://thescubagym.com.au/Diveheart: https://diveheart.orgOther Ways to Listen to The DeadfootDiverSpotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6jxmKX2ubO2CtBxL02qZP6?si=VXJZ2sG9QluZcE1BtwOq5wPodBean: https://open.spotify.com/show/6jxmKX2ubO2CtBxL02qZP6?si=VXJZ2sG9QluZcE1BtwOq5wAmazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/552a8ddd-0601-46b7-8904-d2c8b35fff25/deadfoot-diver-podcastIheart Radio https://www.iheart.com/podcast/1323-deadfoot-diver-podcast-269284925/Player FM: https://player.fm/series/deadfoot-diver-podcastPodchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/deadfoot-diver-podcast-6014538
💬 Let us know your thoughts in the comments, and don't forget to like, share, and subscribe for more diving stories and interviews with legends of the underwater world, and remember Grab an Adventure and Live!

Sunday Mar 02, 2025

In this episode of the Deadfoot Diver Podcast, host Curt welcomes Gus from the renowned Dive Talk podcast. They dive into Gus's journey from discovering scuba diving in icy waters to creating Dive Talk, a leading podcast in the scuba community. Gus shares insights on the Dive Talk Academy's comprehensive training programs and the revolutionary Dive Talk Go Rebreather, designed for affordability and convenience. They also discuss the acceptance of Dive Talk Academy certifications globally and the exciting Dive Talk meetups packed with workshops and giveaways. Tune in for an enriching conversation about scuba diving, rebreathers, and the vibrant Dive Talk community.
📢 Check out these great resources:
Dive Talk: DIVE TALK - YouTube
🔗 My Channel:    https:/youtube.com/@deadfootdiver 
🔗 Support Me : https://buymeacoffee.com/deadfootdiver
The Scuba Gym Orlando : https://www.thescubagym.com
Scuba Gym Australia : https://thescubagym.com.au/
Diveheart: https://diveheart.org
Other Ways to Listen to The DeadfootDiver
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6jxmKX2ubO2CtBxL02qZP6?si=VXJZ2sG9QluZcE1BtwOq5w
PodBean: https://open.spotify.com/show/6jxmKX2ubO2CtBxL02qZP6?si=VXJZ2sG9QluZcE1BtwOq5w
Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/552a8ddd-0601-46b7-8904-d2c8b35fff25/deadfoot-diver-podcast
Iheart Radio https://www.iheart.com/podcast/1323-deadfoot-diver-podcast-269284925/
Player FM: https://player.fm/series/deadfoot-diver-podcast
Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/deadfoot-diver-podcast-6014538
💬 Let us know your thoughts in the comments, and don't forget to like, share, and subscribe for more diving stories and interviews with legends of the underwater world, and remember Grab an Adventure and Live!

Sunday Mar 02, 2025

In this episode of the Deadfoot Diver Podcast, host Curt interviews Jim Elliott and Tina Marie Hernandez from DiveHeart, an organization dedicated to helping people with disabilities experience the freedom and therapeutic benefits of scuba diving. Learn about the origins of DiveHeart, its mission, and how it has evolved over 23 years. The discussion includes touching stories of transformative experiences, the extensive adaptive diving protocols developed by the organization, and their ambitious project to build a 150-foot deep therapeutic pool. Dive into the innovative ways DiveHeart is making scuba diving accessible to all and find out how you can support their mission.
📢 Check out these great resources:
Diveheart: https://diveheart.org
🔗 My Channel:    https://youtube.com/@deadfootdiver 
🔗 Support Me : https://buymeacoffee.com/deadfootdiver
The Scuba Gym Orlando : https://www.thescubagym.com
Scuba Gym Australia : https://thescubagym.com.au/
Other Ways to Listen to The DeadfootDiver
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6jxmKX2ubO2CtBxL02qZP6?si=VXJZ2sG9QluZcE1BtwOq5w
PodBean: https://open.spotify.com/show/6jxmKX2ubO2CtBxL02qZP6?si=VXJZ2sG9QluZcE1BtwOq5w
Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/552a8ddd-0601-46b7-8904-d2c8b35fff25/deadfoot-diver-podcast
Iheart Radio https://www.iheart.com/podcast/1323-deadfoot-diver-podcast-269284925/
Player FM: https://player.fm/series/deadfoot-diver-podcast
Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/deadfoot-diver-podcast-6014538
💬 Let us know your thoughts in the comments, and don't forget to like, share, and subscribe for more diving stories and interviews with legends of the underwater world, and remember Grab an Adventure and Live!

Sunday Mar 02, 2025

In this episode of the Deadfoot Diver Podcast, host Kurt the Deadfoot Diver interviews Dan Orr, a legendary figure in the diving industry and the former head of Divers Alert Network (DAN). Dan shares his captivating journey into scuba diving, influenced by early encounters with treasure hunter Art McKee and inspiring underwater films. He recounts his extensive experience, from early certification in 1964 to a remarkable career spanning over 50 years, including his work in training, research, and leadership roles at DAN. Dan also discusses the development and impact of critical safety protocols and training programs. Highlights include his passion for adaptive diving, technical diving advancements, the role of nitrox, and the revolutionary AVELO diving system. Dan's personal anecdotes, educational endeavors, and thoughts on diving safety make this a must-watch episode for diving enthusiasts. Tune in for an inspiring and informative conversation!
📢 Check out these great resources:
Email Dan :mailto:danorr@danorrconsulting.com
🔗 My Channel:    https:youtube.com/@deadfootdiver 
🔗 Support Me : https://buymeacoffee.com/deadfootdiver
The Scuba Gym Orlando : https://www.thescubagym.com
Scuba Gym Australia : https://thescubagym.com.au/
Diveheart: https://diveheart.org
Other Ways to Listen to The DeadfootDiver
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6jxmKX2ubO2CtBxL02qZP6?si=VXJZ2sG9QluZcE1BtwOq5w
PodBean: https://open.spotify.com/show/6jxmKX2ubO2CtBxL02qZP6?si=VXJZ2sG9QluZcE1BtwOq5w
Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/552a8ddd-0601-46b7-8904-d2c8b35fff25/deadfoot-diver-podcast
Iheart Radio https://www.iheart.com/podcast/1323-deadfoot-diver-podcast-269284925/
Player FM: https://player.fm/series/deadfoot-diver-podcast
Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/deadfoot-diver-podcast-6014538
💬 Let us know your thoughts in the comments, and don't forget to like, share, and subscribe for more diving stories and interviews with legends of the underwater world, and remember Grab an Adventure and Live!

Sunday Mar 02, 2025

Exploring the Depths: Adaptive Diving and Cave Exploration with Jill Heinerth
Join Curt, the Deadfoot Diver, as he hosts National Geographic Explorer and esteemed cave diver Jill Heinerth on the Deadfoot Diver Podcast. Dive into an enlightening conversation about adaptive diving, the importance of customized scuba equipment for divers with disabilities, and the profound mental health benefits of scuba diving. Jill shares her experiences working with disabled divers, her insights on the therapeutic advantages of hyperbaric treatments, and the remarkable achievements in cave diving and scientific exploration. This episode also covers the impacts of global warming on marine environments, rebreather diving challenges, and the personal dynamics of diving with a spouse. Don't miss this captivating episode filled with inspiring stories, professional tips, and Jill's expert perspectives on the evolving world of diving.
📢 Check out these great resources:
www.IntoThePlanet.com
www.DivingIntoTheDarkness.com
NEWSLETTER: https://explorersmindset.substack.com
Jills Official Youtube Channel    / @jillheinerth  
🔗 My Channel:    https://youtube.com/@deadfootdiver 
🔗 Support Me : https://buymeacoffee.com/deadfootdiver
The Scuba Gym Orlando : https://www.thescubagym.com
Scuba Gym Australia : https://thescubagym.com.au/
Diveheart: https://diveheart.org
Other Ways to Listen to The DeadfootDiver
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6jxmKX2ubO2CtBxL02qZP6?si=VXJZ2sG9QluZcE1BtwOq5w
PodBean: https://open.spotify.com/show/6jxmKX2ubO2CtBxL02qZP6?si=VXJZ2sG9QluZcE1BtwOq5w
Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/552a8ddd-0601-46b7-8904-d2c8b35fff25/deadfoot-diver-podcast
Iheart Radio https://www.iheart.com/podcast/1323-deadfoot-diver-podcast-269284925/
Player FM: https://player.fm/series/deadfoot-diver-podcast
Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/deadfoot-diver-podcast-6014538
 
💬 Let us know your thoughts in the comments, and don't forget to like, share, and subscribe for more diving stories and interviews with legends of the underwater world, and remember Grab an Adventure and Live!

Sunday Mar 02, 2025

 Welcome to the Deadfoot Diver Podcast! In this episode, join us for an exhilarating conversation with Dr. Neil Hammerschlag, a leading marine biologist and shark expert. Dr. Hammerschlag shares his journey from a young ocean enthusiast in South Africa to becoming the executive director of the Shark Research Foundation and president of Atlantic Shark Expeditions. Discover his passion for making shark diving accessible to individuals with disabilities, and learn about the remarkable experiences and research conducted on his shark expeditions, including cage diving with great white sharks off the coast of Nova Scotia. Gain insights into shark behavior, conservation efforts, and the innovative technologies making diving experiences safer and more inclusive. Don't miss Dr. Hammerschlag's inspiring stories and initiatives aimed at fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation for these magnificent creatures. Like, subscribe, and support us to bring more captivating content your way! 
📢 Check out these great resources:
https://atlanticsharkexp.com
🔗 My Channel:    / @deadfootdiver  🔗 Support Me : https://buymeacoffee.com/deadfootdiverThe Scuba Gym Orlando : https://www.thescubagym.comScuba Gym Australia : https://thescubagym.com.au/Diveheart: https://diveheart.orgOther Ways to Listen to The DeadfootDiverSpotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6jxmKX2ubO2CtBxL02qZP6?si=VXJZ2sG9QluZcE1BtwOq5wPodBean: https://open.spotify.com/show/6jxmKX2ubO2CtBxL02qZP6?si=VXJZ2sG9QluZcE1BtwOq5wAmazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/552a8ddd-0601-46b7-8904-d2c8b35fff25/deadfoot-diver-podcastIheart Radio https://www.iheart.com/podcast/1323-deadfoot-diver-podcast-269284925/Player FM: https://player.fm/series/deadfoot-diver-podcastPodchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/deadfoot-diver-podcast-6014538
💬 Let us know your thoughts in the comments, and don't forget to like, share, and subscribe for more diving stories and interviews with legends of the underwater world, and remember Grab an Adventre and Live!
 

Saturday Mar 01, 2025

In this episode of the Deadfoot Diver Podcast, Curt, also known as the Deadfoot Diver, sits down with legendary diver John Chatterton. Curt shares his recent diving experiences in Jamaica, highlighting the challenges he faces as an adaptive diver. They discuss the changing dynamics of underwater ecosystems, dealing with disabilities while diving, and the need for innovation in equipment. John shares fascinating stories from his diving career, including his groundbreaking dives on the Lusitania and Britannic, and offers insights into the preparation required for challenging dives like the Andrea Doria. The episode also touches on the importance of continuous training and the responsibilities that come with serious diving. Curt and John emphasize the joy and creativity inherent in diving, the importance of appropriate training, and the dedication required to overcome obstacles both underwater and in life.
📢 Check out these great resources:
https://johnchatterton.com
🔗 My Channel:    / @deadfootdiver  
🔗 Support Me : https://buymeacoffee.com/deadfootdiver
The Scuba Gym Orlando : https://www.thescubagym.com
Scuba Gym Australia : https://thescubagym.com.au/
💬 Let us know your thoughts in the comments, and don't forget to like, share, and subscribe for more diving stories and interviews with legends of the underwater world!

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