Shadi Türk is a Syrian former fixer and journalist who worked through 10 years of the terrible war in his home country. After reaching his breaking point in this capacity he embarked on a journey of discovery which led him to Kaş, Türkiye, and the new adventure of deep freediving.In this episode we discuss:Shadi was born and raised in Syria and moved to Türkiye when he was 18, where he studied architecture.How Shadi became a fixer and a journalist.The psychological impact of seeing so much death and destruction.Shadi was working in Syria for 10 years in his fixing/journalistic capacity.The emotional toll of this experience.How did Shadi get out of Syria and into freediving?Embarking on a journey along the Lycian Way.How was Shadi's first experience of freediving?|His first competition was a World Championships!What is Shadi's motivation for continuing freediving? Shadi was doing around 80m after only 1 year of training!How Shadi ended up in the Philippines.Shadi's current approach to training for freediving.Experience with blackouts and squeezes?Shadi and Donny's experience of narcosis from 'shallow' dives.Could Shadi imagine taking freediving back to Syria?PATREON EXCLUSIVE - Desert Island QuestionsShout out to some people!Why does Shadi freedive?Join me in Dahab, Egypt for freediving courses and training the whole year round. Find out about my teaching philosophy at https://freediveandthrive.com

Shadi Türk is a Syrian former fixer and journalist who worked through 10 years of the terrible war in his home country. After reaching his breaking point in this capacity he embarked on a journey of discovery which led him to Kaş, Türkiye, and the new adventure of deep freediving. In this episode we discuss: Shadi was born and raised in Syria and moved to Türkiye when he was 18, where he studied architecture. How Shadi became a fixer and a journalist. The psychological impact of seeing so much death and destruction. Shadi was working in Syria for 10 years in his fixing/journalistic capacity. The emotional toll of this experience. How did Shadi get out of Syria and into freediving? Embarking on a journey along the Lycian Way. How was Shadi's first experience of freediving?| His first competition was a World Championships! What is Shadi's motivation for continuing freediving?  Shadi was doing around 80m after only 1 year of training! How Shadi ended up in the Philippines. Shadi's current approach to training for freediving. Experience with blackouts and squeezes? Shadi and Donny's experience of narcosis from 'shallow' dives. Could Shadi imagine taking freediving back to Syria? PATREON EXCLUSIVE - Desert Island Questions Shout out to some people! Why does Shadi freedive? Join me in Dahab, Egypt for freediving courses and training the whole year round. Find out about my teaching philosophy at <a href="https://freediveandthrive.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://freediveandthrive.com</a>

#148 | Shadi Türk | From War to Water

Khaled ELGammal is Egypt's deepest diver and the first to reach the 100m mark. Today we hear about how Khaled left a corporate life working in oil and gas to dedicate himself to training for and teaching freediving.In this episode we discuss:Khaled was fresh back from Kuwait where he was acting as safety diver for the CMAS Indoor World Championships.Shout out to co-host Jordy Duncan who is competing for Australia at the AIDA World Championships in Jeju, South Korea.Khaled is originally from Cairo.He left his corporate job in oil and gas to focus on freediving full time.He was a competitive swimmer when he was younger.AIDA Instructor Trainer and Egyptian National record holder.Shout outs to David Mellor and Dave McGoo.Shout out to Harry Chamas.How was the journey to 100m?What was the first 100m dive like?Shout out to Gus Kreivenas and what it's like to train with him.What kind of complementary training went into his training? Strength, flexibility?Shout out to Shaza at Sharkfit gym in Dahab.Training statics for depth?Khaled's experience with barotrauma.The benefits of instructing/coaching for maintaining a good base level of diving fitness.What are Khaled's plans for competition in 2023?Discussing the Egyptian freediving scene and the future of the sport in the country.The diving scene in Dahab town.DESERT ISLAND QUESTIONS - PATREON EXCLUSIVEWhy does he freedive?Join me in Dahab, Egypt for freediving courses and training the whole year round. Find out about my teaching philosophy at https://freediveandthrive.com

Khaled ELGammal is Egypt's deepest diver and the first to reach the 100m mark. Today we hear about how Khaled left a corporate life working in oil and gas to dedicate himself to training for and teaching freediving. In this episode we discuss: Khaled was fresh back from Kuwait where he was acting as safety diver for the CMAS Indoor World Championships. Shout out to co-host Jordy Duncan who is competing for Australia at the AIDA World Championships in Jeju, South Korea. Khaled is originally from Cairo. He left his corporate job in oil and gas to focus on freediving full time. He was a competitive swimmer when he was younger. AIDA Instructor Trainer and Egyptian National record holder. Shout outs to David Mellor and Dave McGoo. Shout out to Harry Chamas. How was the journey to 100m? What was the first 100m dive like? Shout out to Gus Kreivenas and what it's like to train with him. What kind of complementary training went into his training? Strength, flexibility? Shout out to Shaza at Sharkfit gym in Dahab. Training statics for depth? Khaled's experience with barotrauma. The benefits of instructing/coaching for maintaining a good base level of diving fitness. What are Khaled's plans for competition in 2023? Discussing the Egyptian freediving scene and the future of the sport in the country. The diving scene in Dahab town. DESERT ISLAND QUESTIONS - PATREON EXCLUSIVE Why does he freedive?Join me in Dahab, Egypt for freediving courses and training the whole year round. Find out about my teaching philosophy at <a href="https://freediveandthrive.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://freediveandthrive.com</a>

#147 | Khaled ELGammal | Deep In Egypt

Gary McGrath

Gary McGrath is the deepest ever self-propelled freediver from the UK, claiming a national record of 112m in CWT at 2022's Vertical Blue competition. In this episode we catch up with Gary since last years amazing Vertical Blue performance and examine the dark places in our mental environments, open up about depression, anxiety and seeking help, and sincerely hope you benefit from this discussion ❤️ Also watch on YouTube at Freedive and Thrive.In this episode we discuss:Second time lucky!Catching up with Gary since his 2022 Vertical Blue experience.The difficult and expensive process of getting to Vertical Blue.How does one get into VB anyway?Gary lost all his gear on the way to Vertical Blue!What turning up at the Blue Hole feels like.The journey from disqualification and COVID in 2021 to the UK national record in 2022.The Vertical Blue 2022 experience.Crowdfunding for Gary's next VB appearance:https://www.gofundme.com/f/help-gary-get-to-vertical-blueWhat changed in training for Gary between 2021 and 2022?Gary's experience with mental health problems.Depression, anxiety and how we deal with them, overcome them.Imposter syndrome in the freediving elite.Please feel free to reach out to Gary or myself if you are suffering similar issues.What advice would Gary give to his ten years younger self?Thank you for listening xJoin me in Dahab, Egypt for freediving courses and training the whole year round. Find out about my teaching philosophy at https://freediveandthrive.com

Gary McGrath is the deepest ever self-propelled freediver from the UK, claiming a national record of 112m in CWT at 2022's Vertical Blue competition. In this episode we catch up with Gary since last years amazing Vertical Blue performance and examine the dark places in our mental environments, open up about depression, anxiety and seeking help, and sincerely hope you benefit from this discussion ❤️ Also watch on YouTube at Freedive and Thrive. In this episode we discuss: Second time lucky! Catching up with Gary since his 2022 Vertical Blue experience. The difficult and expensive process of getting to Vertical Blue. How does one get into VB anyway? Gary lost all his gear on the way to Vertical Blue! What turning up at the Blue Hole feels like. The journey from disqualification and COVID in 2021 to the UK national record in 2022. The Vertical Blue 2022 experience. Crowdfunding for Gary's next VB appearance: <a href="https://www.gofundme.com/f/help-gary-get-to-vertical-blue" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.gofundme.com/f/help-gary-get-to-vertical-blue</a> What changed in training for Gary between 2021 and 2022? Gary's experience with mental health problems. Depression, anxiety and how we deal with them, overcome them. Imposter syndrome in the freediving elite. Please feel free to reach out to Gary or myself if you are suffering similar issues. What advice would Gary give to his ten years younger self? Thank you for listening xJoin me in Dahab, Egypt for freediving courses and training the whole year round. Find out about my teaching philosophy at <a href="https://freediveandthrive.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://freediveandthrive.com</a>

#146 | Gary McGrath | Ascents & Descents

Miguel Lozano is one of the deepest freedivers in the world. He first appeared on episode #67 of The Freedive Cafe podcast!This interview is also available in video format on the Freedive and Thrive  Youtube channel:https://youtu.be/XW-Y_zBHixwIn this episode we discuss:Miguel and I last spoke in January 2020, recorded an interview and forgot to release it!About Miguel's Deep Camp in Dahab.The structure of the Deep Camp.What Miguel's been up to these past 3 years.Miguel's thoughts on the current condition of the freediving competition scene.Advice on equalisation (lack of rhythm and speed is the problem)Advice on dry training and complementary training for freediving.Advice for instructors who wish to train .Advice on periodisation for freediving training through the year.The evolution of the Freedive Cafe Podcast over time.On the use of dive computers and alarms in freediving.Advice on dealing with squeezes and thoughts on passive exhale diving and RV (residual volume diving).Advice on technicalities of training the different disciplines.How does Miguel do a 60 metre dive that takes 7 minutes ?!?!Shout out to Julia Mouce at Apnea Bali!Will Miguel return to world record attempts?Join me in Dahab, Egypt for freediving courses and training the whole year round. Find out about my teaching philosophy at https://freediveandthrive.com

Miguel Lozano is one of the deepest freedivers in the world. He first appeared on episode #67 of The Freedive Cafe podcast! This interview is also available in video format on the Freedive and Thrive  Youtube channel: <a href="https://youtu.be/XW-Y_zBHixw" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://youtu.be/XW-Y_zBHixw</a> In this episode we discuss: Miguel and I last spoke in January 2020, recorded an interview and forgot to release it! About Miguel's Deep Camp in Dahab. The structure of the Deep Camp. What Miguel's been up to these past 3 years. Miguel's thoughts on the current condition of the freediving competition scene. Advice on equalisation (lack of rhythm and speed is the problem) Advice on dry training and complementary training for freediving. Advice for instructors who wish to train . Advice on periodisation for freediving training through the year. The evolution of the Freedive Cafe Podcast over time. On the use of dive computers and alarms in freediving. Advice on dealing with squeezes and thoughts on passive exhale diving and RV (residual volume diving). Advice on technicalities of training the different disciplines. How does Miguel do a 60 metre dive that takes 7 minutes ?!?! Shout out to Julia Mouce at Apnea Bali! Will Miguel return to world record attempts? Join me in Dahab, Egypt for freediving courses and training the whole year round. Find out about my teaching philosophy at <a href="https://freediveandthrive.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://freediveandthrive.com</a>

#145 | Miguel Lozano | Deep Camp

Stefan Randig

Stefan Randig is a German competitive freediver based in Dahab, Egypt. He first appeared on episode #10 of The Freedive Cafe:https://freedivecafe.com/2017/10/01/10-stefan-randig-freedive-panglao/In this episode we discuss:The last time Stefan and I talked was in 2017, on episode #10 of The Freedive Cafe! (link above)What happened to Freedive Panglao?Stefan started his freediving journey in Dahab.Shout out to our colleagues in The Philippines.Dahab during COVID times.What's it like to raise a child in Dahab?Shout out to Carlos Diezel of Dahab Freedivers.At the time of recording Stefan was fresh back from Vertical Blue 2022, how was his experience?Shout out to Stefan's coach Dean ChaoucheStefan got a new National Record for CNF with a dive of 77m.Stefan is actually younger than Donny! So he should pay more respect to Donny!Stefan's approach to training.How the freediving lifestyle influences motivation.Stefan hasn't blacked out yet in his career.The difficulty of getting paid sponsorship in freediving.Stefan's plans for 2023.About the Deepspot challenge.Thoughts on getting to Blue Element in Dominica in 2023.DESERT ISLAND QUESTIONS - PATREON EXCLUSIVEA shout out to some special people.Join me in Dahab, Egypt for freediving courses and training the whole year round. Find out about my teaching philosophy at https://freediveandthrive.com

Stefan Randig is a German competitive freediver based in Dahab, Egypt. He first appeared on episode #10 of The Freedive Cafe: <a href="https://freedivecafe.com/2017/10/01/10-stefan-randig-freedive-panglao/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://freedivecafe.com/2017/10/01/10-stefan-randig-freedive-panglao/</a> In this episode we discuss: The last time Stefan and I talked was in 2017, on episode #10 of The Freedive Cafe! (link above) What happened to Freedive Panglao? Stefan started his freediving journey in Dahab. Shout out to our colleagues in The Philippines. Dahab during COVID times. What's it like to raise a child in Dahab? Shout out to Carlos Diezel of Dahab Freedivers. At the time of recording Stefan was fresh back from Vertical Blue 2022, how was his experience? Shout out to Stefan's coach Dean Chaouche Stefan got a new National Record for CNF with a dive of 77m. Stefan is actually younger than Donny! So he should pay more respect to Donny! Stefan's approach to training. How the freediving lifestyle influences motivation. Stefan hasn't blacked out yet in his career. The difficulty of getting paid sponsorship in freediving. Stefan's plans for 2023. About the Deepspot challenge. Thoughts on getting to Blue Element in Dominica in 2023. <a href="https://www.patreon.com/freedivecafe" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">DESERT ISLAND QUESTIONS - PATREON EXCLUSIVE</a> A shout out to some special people.Join me in Dahab, Egypt for freediving courses and training the whole year round. Find out about my teaching philosophy at <a href="https://freediveandthrive.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://freediveandthrive.com</a>

#144 | Stefan Randig | Living for Depth

Jordy Duncan is not only my awesome co-host on the Freediving Journal News Dispatch, but an up and coming elite freediver in her own right. Jordy has only been diving for around 2 years but has managed to achieve distances in the pool of more than 200m, which for me is an absolutely mind-blowing achievement! Perhaps more interesting than Jordy's rapid rise as a freediving athlete is to see that in the context of where she's coming from.... Jordy has struggled with an eating disorder for much of her life and her discovery of freediving and applying herself to it has been instrumental in her recovery.In this episode we discuss:Jordy is originally from Townsville, North Queensland, and is now located in Brisbane.Shout out to Townsville and Cairns folks!Shout out to Jack Webb at Freedive Far North Queensland.Shout out to Ant Judge.Getting burnt out at a young age from swimming.Weight gain after quitting swimming.Start of a party lifestyle and drinking a lot.The development of Jordy's bulimia and what bulimia nervosa is as a medical condition.Crying out for help and not knowing how to ask.Jordy was offically diagnosed with bulimia nervosa at age 21.Working ski-seasons on Japan and France.First time going to hospital for recovery.Did Jordy know how underweight she had become?Why is bulimia a taboo subject?Comparing alcoholism and eating disorders.Jordy's discovery of freediving through Tinder!Black-outs and an underwater black-out.Starting coaching with Samo Jeranko (#87)Moving in with Amber Bourke! (#40)Jordy is one of the best pool freedivers in the world and only getting better!How, where and when does Jordy train?Goal to compete at AIDA Pool World Championships in June.Let's help Jordy get to South Korea!Jordy works for the Queensland state government in human resources.Jordy's plans for 2023.The ongoing struggle of our conditions and addictions.How does Jordy fuel herself for training now, and deal with food and the complicated issues she has with it?DESERT ISLAND QUESTIONS - Patreon ExclusiveShout out to special people.Why does she freedive?Join me in Dahab, Egypt for freediving courses and training the whole year round. Find out about my teaching philosophy at https://freediveandthrive.com

Jordy Duncan is not only my awesome co-host on the Freediving Journal News Dispatch, but an up and coming elite freediver in her own right.  Jordy has only been diving for around 2 years but has managed to achieve distances in the pool of more than 200m, which for me is an absolutely mind-blowing achievement! Perhaps more interesting than Jordy's rapid rise as a freediving athlete is to see that in the context of where she's coming from.... Jordy has struggled with an eating disorder for much of her life and her discovery of freediving and applying herself to it has been instrumental in her recovery. In this episode we discuss: Jordy is originally from Townsville, North Queensland, and is now located in Brisbane. Shout out to Townsville and Cairns folks! Shout out to Jack Webb at Freedive Far North Queensland. Shout out to Ant Judge. Getting burnt out at a young age from swimming. Weight gain after quitting swimming. Start of a party lifestyle and drinking a lot. The development of Jordy's bulimia and what bulimia nervosa is as a medical condition. Crying out for help and not knowing how to ask. Jordy was offically diagnosed with bulimia nervosa at age 21. Working ski-seasons on Japan and France. First time going to hospital for recovery. Did Jordy know how underweight she had become? Why is bulimia a taboo subject? Comparing alcoholism and eating disorders. Jordy's discovery of freediving through Tinder! Black-outs and an underwater black-out. Starting coaching with Samo Jeranko (#87) Moving in with Amber Bourke! (#40) Jordy is one of the best pool freedivers in the world and only getting better! How, where and when does Jordy train? Goal to compete at AIDA Pool World Championships in June. Let's help Jordy get to South Korea! Jordy works for the Queensland state government in human resources. Jordy's plans for 2023. The ongoing struggle of our conditions and addictions. How does Jordy fuel herself for training now, and deal with food and the complicated issues she has with it? DESERT ISLAND QUESTIONS - Patreon Exclusive Shout out to special people. Why does she freedive?Join me in Dahab, Egypt for freediving courses and training the whole year round. Find out about my teaching philosophy at <a href="https://freediveandthrive.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://freediveandthrive.com</a>

#143 | Jordy Duncan | Phoenix Rising

Pete Botman

Pete Botman is a Canadian/Dutch freediving athlete and instructor based in Dahab, Egypt. He is a 100m+ diver,  multiple World Record holder in the CMAS Master's category and didn't start freediving until he was later in his forties.In this episode we discuss:Pete was born and raised in Canada but grew up speaking Dutch.He joined the swim team and competed at quite a high level until aged 16.Teaching, coaching, lifeguarding, and cross-country skiing.How difficult is cross country skiiing?The possibilities of youth and hangovers!Pete didn't start freediving until he was about 46 years old!About 10 years as a PADI scuba instructor leading up to freediving.Coming out of an awesome 2022 season for Pete.Pete and Olga Rodnova run Personal Best freediving together in Dahab, Egypt and Kas, Turkey.The difficulties of the Russian invasion of Ukraine on running a business.How to juggle training and teaching?Shout out to David Mellor and his first 100m dives!Stumbling blocks with throat squeezes and how Pete overcame them.Reverse packing and squeezing.Pete was 59 old years at the time of the interview.Age is no barrier to freediving!'Freediving is just about getting back up" ;)Donny gets 'narced' from dives deeper than 60m!Is narcosis just about nitrogen or are the other gases involved, too?Pete achieved world record in many disciplines in the Master's category in the CMAS Outdoor World Championship.The last championship and a rivalry with Jesper Stechmann and Jens Stoetzner.About being coaching to Giorgos Panagiotakis? Swimming with dolphins is the best kind of CO2 training!Comparing Egypt and Taiwan's climate.What does training session, week, look like for Pete?Fondly remembering the beer-can-in-the-ass chicken and thoughts on nutrition.Shout out to the Ukrainians who can't be diving right now!DESERT ISLAND QUESTIONS - Patreon ExclusiveShout out to some special people!Why does he freedive?Join me in Dahab, Egypt for freediving courses and training the whole year round. Find out about my teaching philosophy at https://freediveandthrive.com

Pete Botman is a Canadian/Dutch freediving athlete and instructor based in Dahab, Egypt. He is a 100m+ diver,  multiple World Record holder in the CMAS Master's category and didn't start freediving until he was later in his forties. In this episode we discuss: Pete was born and raised in Canada but grew up speaking Dutch. He joined the swim team and competed at quite a high level until aged 16. Teaching, coaching, lifeguarding, and cross-country skiing. How difficult is cross country skiiing? The possibilities of youth and hangovers! Pete didn't start freediving until he was about 46 years old! About 10 years as a PADI scuba instructor leading up to freediving. Coming out of an awesome 2022 season for Pete. Pete and Olga Rodnova run Personal Best freediving together in Dahab, Egypt and Kas, Turkey. The difficulties of the Russian invasion of Ukraine on running a business. How to juggle training and teaching? Shout out to David Mellor and his first 100m dives! Stumbling blocks with throat squeezes and how Pete overcame them. Reverse packing and squeezing. Pete was 59 old years at the time of the interview. Age is no barrier to freediving! 'Freediving is just about getting back up" ;) Donny gets 'narced' from dives deeper than 60m! Is narcosis just about nitrogen or are the other gases involved, too? Pete achieved world record in many disciplines in the Master's category in the CMAS Outdoor World Championship. The last championship and a rivalry with Jesper Stechmann and Jens Stoetzner. About being coaching to Giorgos Panagiotakis?  Swimming with dolphins is the best kind of CO2 training! Comparing Egypt and Taiwan's climate. What does training session, week, look like for Pete? Fondly remembering the beer-can-in-the-ass chicken and thoughts on nutrition. Shout out to the Ukrainians who can't be diving right now! DESERT ISLAND QUESTIONS - Patreon Exclusive Shout out to some special people! Why does he freedive? Join me in Dahab, Egypt for freediving courses and training the whole year round. Find out about my teaching philosophy at <a href="https://freediveandthrive.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://freediveandthrive.com</a>

#142 | Pete Botman | Master's Champion

Tito Zappalà

Tito Zappalà is an Italian freediver and coach. He worked under the eye of Andrea Zuccari at Freediving World in Sharm el-Sheikh for five years before moving up to Dahab when he currently lives and coaches.In this episode we discuss:Tito and Kat's plans for the winter.Only 3 people in 7 years who pissed him off!Tito is from the galaxy and the stars, and ... specifically from Sicily, Italy.Early start in freediving, spearfishing with his father.Selling the family gold for a Gopro.Tito's early work as an underwater photographer.Starting work with Andrea Zuccari at Freediving World.Working for Andrea for 5 years.Why did Tito move up to Dahab.Shout out to Kat4dive!Shout out to Gus Kreivenas!Tito's style of teaching and coaching in Dahab.Shout out to Ali of Aqua Maria! The episode before this one!Tito's first competition in the Blue Hole in 2021.Jumping from 80m to 100m in two dives!Tito's first 100m dive,Tito's World Record attempt in Variable Weight (VWT)What is Variable Weight?Shout out to Walid Boudhiaf and his 150m World Record in VWT.Shout out to Marco Nones!Shout out to Carlos Diezel of Dahab FreediversShout out to Stavros Kastrinakis of Freediving Club Greece.Detailed information on the training process for the World Record attempt.Is another attempt on the books?Biggest mistakes in freediving safety?Top tips for freediving equalisation.DESERT ISLAND QUESTIONS - Patreon ExclusiveWhy does he freedive?Join me in Dahab, Egypt for freediving courses and training the whole year round. Find out about my teaching philosophy at https://freediveandthrive.com

Tito Zappalà is an Italian freediver and coach. He worked under the eye of Andrea Zuccari at Freediving World in Sharm el-Sheikh for five years before moving up to Dahab when he currently lives and coaches. In this episode we discuss: Tito and Kat's plans for the winter. Only 3 people in 7 years who pissed him off! Tito is from the galaxy and the stars, and ... specifically from Sicily, Italy. Early start in freediving, spearfishing with his father. Selling the family gold for a Gopro. Tito's early work as an underwater photographer. Starting work with Andrea Zuccari at Freediving World. Working for Andrea for 5 years. Why did Tito move up to Dahab. Shout out to Kat4dive! Shout out to Gus Kreivenas! Tito's style of teaching and coaching in Dahab. Shout out to Ali of Aqua Maria! The episode before this one! Tito's first competition in the Blue Hole in 2021. Jumping from 80m to 100m in two dives! Tito's first 100m dive, Tito's World Record attempt in Variable Weight (VWT) What is Variable Weight? Shout out to Walid Boudhiaf and his 150m World Record in VWT. Shout out to Marco Nones! Shout out to Carlos Diezel of Dahab Freedivers Shout out to Stavros Kastrinakis of Freediving Club Greece. Detailed information on the training process for the World Record attempt. Is another attempt on the books? Biggest mistakes in freediving safety? Top tips for freediving equalisation. DESERT ISLAND QUESTIONS - Patreon Exclusive Why does he freedive?Join me in Dahab, Egypt for freediving courses and training the whole year round. Find out about my teaching philosophy at <a href="https://freediveandthrive.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://freediveandthrive.com</a>

#141 | Tito Zappalà | Love & Freediving

Ali Okab is the boss and face of the world-famous Aqua Marina, located right at the Blue Hole north of Dahab, Egypt.His restaurant is the starting point for all freediving adventures in the Blue Hole and the de facto family house for freedivers from all over the world.In this episode we discuss:Ali's full name is Ali Rekab Ali Ali Okab.Aqua Marina is a home for all the freedivers of the world.The challenges of running a restaurant at the Blue Hole.Ali's realisation about freediving and its people through the trials of the COVID era.Ali is from Alexandria.He was working as a taxi driver before moving to Sinai.Ali's initial confusion about the sport of freediving.A free freediving course from Lotta Ericson.Ali has been at the Blue Hole for 23 years!About the special service offered by Ali at Aqua Marina.The amazing food and the good price!AIDA supplied a defibrillator for the restaurant.How freediving in the Blue Hole has changed over the years.How to look after and care for this unique environment.Shout out to Mohammend, the thinking mind!Ali's new place in Dahab town.Join me in Dahab, Egypt for freediving courses and training the whole year round. Find out about my teaching philosophy at https://freediveandthrive.com

Ali Okab is the boss and face of the world-famous Aqua Marina, located right at the Blue Hole north of Dahab, Egypt. His restaurant is the starting point for all freediving adventures in the Blue Hole and the de facto family house for freedivers from all over the world. In this episode we discuss: Ali's full name is Ali Rekab Ali Ali Okab. Aqua Marina is a home for all the freedivers of the world. The challenges of running a restaurant at the Blue Hole. Ali's realisation about freediving and its people through the trials of the COVID era. Ali is from Alexandria. He was working as a taxi driver before moving to Sinai. Ali's initial confusion about the sport of freediving. A free freediving course from Lotta Ericson. Ali has been at the Blue Hole for 23 years! About the special service offered by Ali at Aqua Marina. The amazing food and the good price! AIDA supplied a defibrillator for the restaurant. How freediving in the Blue Hole has changed over the years. How to look after and care for this unique environment. Shout out to Mohammend, the thinking mind! Ali's new place in Dahab town.Join me in Dahab, Egypt for freediving courses and training the whole year round. Find out about my teaching philosophy at <a href="https://freediveandthrive.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://freediveandthrive.com</a>

#140 | Ali Okab | Aqua Marina

Kateryna Sadurska is a multiple record holder and Ukrainian champion. Kat has a background as a synchronised swimmer and even made it to the Olympics in Rio to represent Ukraine in that sport, and later turned her attention to our wonderful sport of freediving where she has rapidly been rising to the elite levels, especially in her pool performances. In this episode we discuss:Katerina is from Mykolaiv, Ukraine.She has a background in synchronised swimming and did that for 17 years.Going to the Olympics and World Championships to compete.How Kat discovered freediving through underwater photography.Comparison of breath-holding skills in freediving and synchronised swimming.A first freediving competition in Poland.A first national record of 175m in dynamic monofin!A first depth course in Odessa, on the Black Sea.A first depth competition in Bonaire.Becoming a freediving instructor and working with Nataliia Zharkova.The most recent World Championships and her results.Out-break of invasion of Ukraine by Russia.Working at Freediving World Sharm El Sheikh, school of Andrea Zuccari.The lead up to Belgrade world championships, and training and lack of training.At the time of recording Kat's husband and mother were in Kharkiv, under pressure from the Russian invasion.Shout out to all the great Ukrainian divers who aren't able to dive at the moment.What are her current limitations to going deeper?Shout out to Amber Bourke!About No Fins and the possibility of a World Record.What complementary training does Kat do?How much help did a synchronised swimming background give her?Nutrition and the importance of Coca Cola.Has she had much experience with lung barotrauma?Crucial advice for aspiring deep divers.DESERT ISLAND QUESTIONSKateryna's swimwear brand: https://saobrand.comWhy does she freedive?Join me in Dahab, Egypt for freediving courses and training the whole year round. Find out about my teaching philosophy at https://freediveandthrive.com

Kateryna Sadurska is a multiple record holder and Ukrainian champion.  Kat has a background as a synchronised swimmer and even made it to the Olympics in Rio to represent Ukraine in that sport, and later turned her attention to our wonderful sport of freediving where she has rapidly been rising to the elite levels, especially in her pool performances. In this episode we discuss: Katerina is from Mykolaiv, Ukraine. She has a background in synchronised swimming and did that for 17 years. Going to the Olympics and World Championships to compete. How Kat discovered freediving through underwater photography. Comparison of breath-holding skills in freediving and synchronised swimming. A first freediving competition in Poland. A first national record of 175m in dynamic monofin! A first depth course in Odessa, on the Black Sea. A first depth competition in Bonaire. Becoming a freediving instructor and working with Nataliia Zharkova. The most recent World Championships and her results. Out-break of invasion of Ukraine by Russia. Working at Freediving World Sharm El Sheikh, school of Andrea Zuccari. The lead up to Belgrade world championships, and training and lack of training. At the time of recording Kat's husband and mother were in Kharkiv, under pressure from the Russian invasion. Shout out to all the great Ukrainian divers who aren't able to dive at the moment. What are her current limitations to going deeper? Shout out to Amber Bourke! About No Fins and the possibility of a World Record. What complementary training does Kat do? How much help did a synchronised swimming background give her? Nutrition and the importance of Coca Cola. Has she had much experience with lung barotrauma? Crucial advice for aspiring deep divers. DESERT ISLAND QUESTIONS Kateryna's swimwear brand:  <a href="https://saobrand.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://saobrand.com</a> Why does she freedive?Join me in Dahab, Egypt for freediving courses and training the whole year round. Find out about my teaching philosophy at <a href="https://freediveandthrive.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://freediveandthrive.com</a>

#139 | Kateryna Sadurska | Fire And Water

The world's dedicated freediving podcast. Longform interviews with the deepest humans on Earth.

Denis Grosmaire was raised in the pacific island nation of French Polynesia, travelling for island to island as a kid with his mom, growing up in the ocean from a very young age. However, he didn't dive deeper than 30m or take a freediving course until he was 39 years old. After that he very quickly rose up through the competition ranks and now dives well over 100m. Denis also has a fascinating relationship with sharks. He spends hours and hours in the waters of French Polynesia with Tiger sharks and has fought hard to win some amazing conservation victories there.In this episode we discuss:Denis was in Dahab in August 2022 for training in preparation for competition.Denis is based on a remote island in French Polynesia called Tikehau.Denis grew up on many islands in French Polynesia.Selling a house and giving up and office job to become a freediving instructor.Long background in spearfishing and diving but didn't take a course until age 39, and didn't dive deeper than 30m!Opening a school in French Polynesia in September 2016.The difficulty of being a freediving instructor on French territory.A stressful first competition in 2018.The difficulty of training in Tahiti.Next competition was Vertical Blue in 2018 and got into the 90s!Denis had achieved 105m in FIM at the time of recording.Mental coaching.The importance of meditation and visualisation.What is Denis training plan?Finding tiger sharks to dive with.The devastation caused by shark finning and what Denis did about it.Protecting sharks and Polynesian culture.The problem of Chinese vessels coming into Tahitian waters to get shark fins.Advice for people who wish to interact with sharks.PATREON SPECIAL - Desert Island QuestionsJoin me in Dahab, Egypt for freediving courses and training the whole year round. Find out about my teaching philosophy at https://freediveandthrive.com

Denis Grosmaire was raised in the pacific island nation of French Polynesia, travelling for island to island as a kid with his mom, growing up in the ocean from a very young age. However, he didn't dive deeper than 30m or take a freediving course until he was 39 years old. After that he very quickly rose up through the competition ranks and now dives well over 100m. Denis also has a fascinating relationship with sharks. He spends hours and hours in the waters of French Polynesia with Tiger sharks and has fought hard to win some amazing conservation victories there. In this episode we discuss: Denis was in Dahab in August 2022 for training in preparation for competition. Denis is based on a remote island in French Polynesia called Tikehau. Denis grew up on many islands in French Polynesia. Selling a house and giving up and office job to become a freediving instructor. Long background in spearfishing and diving but didn't take a course until age 39, and didn't dive deeper than 30m! Opening a school in French Polynesia in September 2016. The difficulty of being a freediving instructor on French territory. A stressful first competition in 2018. The difficulty of training in Tahiti. Next competition was Vertical Blue in 2018 and got into the 90s! Denis had achieved 105m in FIM at the time of recording. Mental coaching. The importance of meditation and visualisation. What is Denis training plan? Finding tiger sharks to dive with. The devastation caused by shark finning and what Denis did about it. Protecting sharks and Polynesian culture. The problem of Chinese vessels coming into Tahitian waters to get shark fins. Advice for people who wish to interact with sharks. PATREON SPECIAL - Desert Island QuestionsJoin me in Dahab, Egypt for freediving courses and training the whole year round. Find out about my teaching philosophy at <a href="https://freediveandthrive.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://freediveandthrive.com</a>

#138 | Denis Grosmaire | Dancing With Sharks

Bizo Silva is an Emergency Medicine physician practicing in a trauma center in Northern California, USA. He specialized in lung ultrasound in trauma. Bizo took part in much of the basic research and development of methods on how lung ultrasound is practiced today. After working for a few years in a very busy trauma center in Brazil, he moved to the USA in 2007. He discovered freediving on a vacation to Hawaii, and shortly after decided to shift careers towards freediving medicine after he was blown away by the fascinating physiology of this unusual sport.In this episode we discuss:Bizo grew up in Brazil, went to med school there.He met his partner in New York and has lived in the US for 17 years.He has a masters in lung ultrasound and contusion.At what point did freediving enter his life?He started getting interested in freediving while on a trip to Hawaii.Took a level 1 courses with Ben Zyons.The difference between lung contusion and pulmonary barotrauma.Clarifying the term 'oedema', compared to contusion.Call back to Ep#21 with Ron Chapman, discussing the death of Nick Mevoli.What does 'lung squeeze' mean, exactly? (we don't know).What is remodelling of the vasculature around the alveoli?Not only a vasogenic adaptation, but also structural changes in walls of blood vessels.Shout out to Aharon Solomons and Tommy and Happy Birthday!Shout out to Juani Valdivia!What changes happen in the structure of lungs in high altitude situations?Altitude pulmonary oedema quite similar to lung squeeze.The gradation of different levels of lung squeeze. Not only hydrostatic stress but also sheer stress.Comparing CT scans and lung ultrasound.A portable lung ultrasound attachment for an iPad can be had for around 2-3k.Link to lung ultrasound study I participated in during the 2022 Taiwanese Cup.What issues did Bizo bring up with that study?What are B-lines? Why are they not the same thing as lung comets. Clarifying the terminology.How informative are lung ultrasounds to the trained observer?How quickly can the lung recover as long as there is no structural rupture.Development of condition similar to scar tissue/'pulmonary fibrosis'Why do some people squeeze more than other?Comparing the lungs of healthy individual smokers to long-term smokers.Donny's history with smoking.Uniformity of lung injury is important.Can a lung ultrasound detect COPD?Lung ultrasounds can only see the surface of the lungs.What was problematic about the conclusions of the lung ultrasound study?How ultrasound really works.Donny's lung ultrasound images. What is atelectasis and how does it generate B-lines?What is the value of checking SaO2 (oxygen saturation) after dives?What is CPAP and what can it do for us?The problem with pure O2!What is the benefit of recovery breath and should we still do it?Should we pack after the dive?Anecdote of a man who saved himself from heart attack with coughing.What is SIPE (swimming induced pulmonary oedema)?Difficulty of monitoring O2 and doing lung ultrasound while in the water.What is the current state of competition medical care?DESERT ISLAND QUESTIONS - PATREON EXCLUSIVEWhy does Bizo freedive?Join me in Dahab, Egypt for freediving courses and training the whole year round. Find out about my teaching philosophy at https://freediveandthrive.com

Bizo Silva is an Emergency Medicine physician practicing in a trauma center in Northern California, USA. He specialized in lung ultrasound in trauma. Bizo took part in much of the basic research and development of methods on how lung ultrasound is practiced today. After working for a few years in a very busy trauma center in Brazil, he moved to the USA in 2007. He discovered freediving on a vacation to Hawaii, and shortly after decided to shift careers towards freediving medicine after he was blown away by the fascinating physiology of this unusual sport. In this episode we discuss: Bizo grew up in Brazil, went to med school there. He met his partner in New York and has lived in the US for 17 years. He has a masters in lung ultrasound and contusion. At what point did freediving enter his life? He started getting interested in freediving while on a trip to Hawaii. Took a level 1 courses with Ben Zyons. The difference between lung contusion and pulmonary barotrauma. Clarifying the term 'oedema', compared to contusion. Call back to Ep#21 with Ron Chapman, discussing the death of Nick Mevoli. What does 'lung squeeze' mean, exactly? (we don't know). What is remodelling of the vasculature around the alveoli? Not only a vasogenic adaptation, but also structural changes in walls of blood vessels. Shout out to Aharon Solomons and Tommy and Happy Birthday! Shout out to Juani Valdivia! What changes happen in the structure of lungs in high altitude situations? Altitude pulmonary oedema quite similar to lung squeeze. The gradation of different levels of lung squeeze. Not only hydrostatic stress but also sheer stress. Comparing CT scans and lung ultrasound. A portable lung ultrasound attachment for an iPad can be had for around 2-3k. Link to lung ultrasound study I participated in during the 2022 Taiwanese Cup. What issues did Bizo bring up with that study? What are B-lines? Why are they not the same thing as lung comets. Clarifying the terminology. How informative are lung ultrasounds to the trained observer? How quickly can the lung recover as long as there is no structural rupture. Development of condition similar to scar tissue/'pulmonary fibrosis' Why do some people squeeze more than other? Comparing the lungs of healthy individual smokers to long-term smokers. Donny's history with smoking. Uniformity of lung injury is important. Can a lung ultrasound detect COPD? Lung ultrasounds can only see the surface of the lungs. What was problematic about the conclusions of the lung ultrasound study? How ultrasound really works. Donny's lung ultrasound images.  What is atelectasis and how does it generate B-lines? What is the value of checking SaO2 (oxygen saturation) after dives? What is CPAP and what can it do for us? The problem with pure O2! What is the benefit of recovery breath and should we still do it? Should we pack after the dive? Anecdote of a man who saved himself from heart attack with coughing. What is SIPE (swimming induced pulmonary oedema)? Difficulty of monitoring O2 and doing lung ultrasound while in the water. What is the current state of competition medical care? DESERT ISLAND QUESTIONS - PATREON EXCLUSIVE Why does Bizo freedive?Join me in Dahab, Egypt for freediving courses and training the whole year round. Find out about my teaching philosophy at <a href="https://freediveandthrive.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://freediveandthrive.com</a>

#137 | Bizo Silva | Lung Ultrasound, Squeeze and Lung Health

Alex Llinas

Alex Llinas is from Colombia and holds several national records. He dived his first 100m during competition at this years AIDA World Championships in Roatan. His story of spending years in immigration limbo, battling cancer and losing his father before going on to become a top freediving athlete is truly inspirational.In this episode we discuss:Alex is from ColombiaAbout San Andres island, ColombiaThen to life in Medellin.From Colombia to Charlotte, NCA slightly complicated immigration issue...Leaving then real job for a life of freediving.Discovering he has lymphoma.Dealing with the effects of cancer treatment.A terrible infection that kicked his ass.Great dives at the Freediving World Cup in Sharm.What makes CNF so challenging, and what makes someone good at it?What has been limiting Alex so far is his equalisation.Switching from pain cave mentality to listening to your body.Alex's experience with lung squeezes.The 'culture of squeezing' in freediving.How structured is Alex's coaching and how is coaching from Vitomir Maricic?Shout out to Stefan Randig.The evolution of freediving as a serious sport.Alex was in the new Black Panther movie!PATREON EXCLUSIVE | DESERT ISLAND QUESTIONS (www.patreon.com/freedivecafe)Shout out to influential people.Plans for the future.Why does he freedive?Join me in Dahab, Egypt for freediving courses and training the whole year round. Find out about my teaching philosophy at https://freediveandthrive.com

Alex Llinas is from Colombia and holds several national records. He dived his first 100m during competition at this years AIDA World Championships in Roatan. His story of spending years in immigration limbo, battling cancer and losing his father before going on to become a top freediving athlete is truly inspirational. In this episode we discuss: Alex is from Colombia About San Andres island, Colombia Then to life in Medellin. From Colombia to Charlotte, NC A slightly complicated immigration issue... Leaving then real job for a life of freediving. Discovering he has lymphoma. Dealing with the effects of cancer treatment. A terrible infection that kicked his ass. Great dives at the Freediving World Cup in Sharm. What makes CNF so challenging, and what makes someone good at it? What has been limiting Alex so far is his equalisation. Switching from pain cave mentality to listening to your body. Alex's experience with lung squeezes. The 'culture of squeezing' in freediving. How structured is Alex's coaching and how is coaching from Vitomir Maricic? Shout out to Stefan Randig. The evolution of freediving as a serious sport. Alex was in the new Black Panther movie! PATREON EXCLUSIVE | DESERT ISLAND QUESTIONS (<a href="http://www.patreon.com/freedivecafe" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.patreon.com/freedivecafe</a>) Shout out to influential people. Plans for the future. Why does he freedive?Join me in Dahab, Egypt for freediving courses and training the whole year round. Find out about my teaching philosophy at <a href="https://freediveandthrive.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://freediveandthrive.com</a>

#136 | Alex Llinas | Evolution

Jani Valdivia is from Peru and is based in Tampa, Florida where he works as a neurosurgeon.He is also a member of the AIDA Medical Committee, President of AIDA Peru and a competitive freediver himself.He was first on the podcast on Episode #99For freediving courses, coaching, podcasts and videos visit:https://freediveandthrive.comIn this episode we discuss:Balancing life as a neurosurgeon and aspiring deep freediver.Training options in Florida.Getting ready for Vertical Blue 2022.What has Juani been working on recently?The risk of Decompression Sickness.The dangers of taking certain medications combined with freediving.Diuretics, beta blockers, alpha blockers, blood thinners\anti coagulants, etcOne dose to reverse the effects of a certain anti-coagulant cost 22,000$What is the difference between a beta blocker and an alpha blocker.Are any OTC medications or supplements of concern. Fish oil, vitamin E.Do certain preconditions make lung barotrauma more likely?Difference between immersion pulmonary edema and lung barotrauma and the spectrum between.Referring to the lung ultrasound study done by Andy Chi.Shout out to Bizo Silva.Things to look out for regarding lung barotrauma.Thoughts on permanent impairment from lung barotrauma.How much rest to take after lung barotrauma.Actions to take after lung squeeze.Warmings about aspirin and ibuprofen.Differences between DCI (decompression illness) and AGE (arterial gas embolism).The importance of having insurance in case there is an accident.Suspicions about doping in the freediving scene.What are Juani's plans for the future in this field?Join me in Dahab, Egypt for freediving courses and training the whole year round. Find out about my teaching philosophy at https://freediveandthrive.com

Jani Valdivia is from Peru and is based in Tampa, Florida where he works as a neurosurgeon.He is also a member of the AIDA Medical Committee, President of AIDA Peru and a competitive freediver himself. He was first on the podcast on <a href="https://freedivecafe.com/2020/10/31/99-jani-valdivia-hypoxic/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Episode #99</a> For freediving courses, coaching, podcasts and videos visit: <a href="https://freediveandthrive.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://freediveandthrive.com</a>In this episode we discuss: Balancing life as a neurosurgeon and aspiring deep freediver. Training options in Florida. Getting ready for Vertical Blue 2022. What has Juani been working on recently? The risk of Decompression Sickness. The dangers of taking certain medications combined with freediving. Diuretics, beta blockers, alpha blockers, blood thinners\anti coagulants, etc One dose to reverse the effects of a certain anti-coagulant cost 22,000$ What is the difference between a beta blocker and an alpha blocker. Are any OTC medications or supplements of concern. Fish oil, vitamin E. Do certain preconditions make lung barotrauma more likely? Difference between immersion pulmonary edema and lung barotrauma and the spectrum between. Referring to the lung ultrasound study done by Andy Chi. Shout out to Bizo Silva. Things to look out for regarding lung barotrauma. Thoughts on permanent impairment from lung barotrauma. How much rest to take after lung barotrauma. Actions to take after lung squeeze. Warmings about aspirin and ibuprofen. Differences between DCI (decompression illness) and AGE (arterial gas embolism). The importance of having insurance in case there is an accident. Suspicions about doping in the freediving scene. What are Juani's plans for the future in this field?Join me in Dahab, Egypt for freediving courses and training the whole year round. Find out about my teaching philosophy at <a href="https://freediveandthrive.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://freediveandthrive.com</a>

#135 | Juani Valdivia | Freediving Medicine

Carlos Diezel

Carlos Diezel is a freediving athlete from Brazil and manager of the world famous Dahab Freedivers school in Egypt.In this episode we discuss:Carlos is from Brazil.The underwater world of Brazil's coast.Discovering freediving at Julia Mouce's Apnea Bali, via Mike Board's Freedive Gili!Carlos is getting steadily deeper and loves depthCarlos is currently coached by Julia Mouce.The issue of diving for the numbers.Carlos did his last comp with a broken ankle!Discovering new layers of relaxation in Free Immersion.What kinds of complementary training does Carlos do to support his diving?Why and how could Carlos choose Dahab to live with his family?Carlos was a mechanical engineer in his previous life.Loving or hating Dahab, or both at the same time?Shoutouts to Dahab Freedivers founders Miguel Lozano, Pascal Berger and Stephen Keenan.What is the long term vision for Dahab Freedivers?Carlos' love of teaching.Some great advice for instructors.DESERT ISLAND QUESTIONS | PATREON EXCLUSIVEShout out to important people.How to find Carlos.Why does he freedive? Join me in Dahab, Egypt for freediving courses and training the whole year round. Find out about my teaching philosophy at https://freediveandthrive.com

Carlos Diezel is a freediving athlete from Brazil and manager of the world famous Dahab Freedivers school in Egypt. In this episode we discuss: Carlos is from Brazil. The underwater world of Brazil's coast. Discovering freediving at Julia Mouce's Apnea Bali, via Mike Board's Freedive Gili! Carlos is getting steadily deeper and loves depth Carlos is currently coached by Julia Mouce. The issue of diving for the numbers. Carlos did his last comp with a broken ankle! Discovering new layers of relaxation in Free Immersion. What kinds of complementary training does Carlos do to support his diving? Why and how could Carlos choose Dahab to live with his family? Carlos was a mechanical engineer in his previous life. Loving or hating Dahab, or both at the same time? Shoutouts to Dahab Freedivers founders Miguel Lozano, Pascal Berger and Stephen Keenan. What is the long term vision for Dahab Freedivers? Carlos' love of teaching. Some great advice for instructors. DESERT ISLAND QUESTIONS | PATREON EXCLUSIVE Shout out to important people. How to find Carlos. Why does he freedive? Join me in Dahab, Egypt for freediving courses and training the whole year round. Find out about my teaching philosophy at <a href="https://freediveandthrive.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://freediveandthrive.com</a>

#134 | Carlos Diezel | Dahab Freedivers

Rami Bladlav

Rami Bladlav is a top level athlete in Static Apnea competing for Sweden. He is nearing the 10 minute breath-hold mark.Today we talk about his journey from Iraq, to Mixed Martial Arts, to his passion for long breath-holding performances. In this episode we discuss:Rami is originally from Iraq, but grew up in Iran, then moved to Sweden at age 10/11Rami started sport with football, then eventually mixed martial arts.What is it like to be a fighter?Rami's fighting history.Rami has two young daughters.How did he come to discover freediving?Rami started off with a 187m DYN!He now focuses mainly on static apnea.Are there any similarities between STA and MMA?Did triathlon help with freediving, STA, lung capacity?Rami had a 9.5l lung capacity after packing last time he tested.Why static?!A question from Freediving Journal co-host Jordy Duncan about drive and motivation?Some chat about Rami's training methodology.Shout out to Erika Shagatay, episode #Shout out to Valdemar KarlssonHow did Rami injury his breathing muscles with packing?Shout out to Akim Ladhari.How many times does he pack and how?Advice for those wishing to improve their statics.Rami's thoughts on hyperventilation.Thoughts on food and nutrition.Best supplements for STA.Rami's interesting mental strategies for dealing with long statics.Another question from Jordy about plans after the World Championships.DESERT ISLAND QUESTIONSRami's biggest influences.Why does he freedive?Join me in Dahab, Egypt for freediving courses and training the whole year round. Find out about my teaching philosophy at https://freediveandthrive.com

Rami Bladlav is a top level athlete in Static Apnea competing for Sweden. He is nearing the 10 minute breath-hold mark. Today we talk about his journey from Iraq, to Mixed Martial Arts, to his passion for long breath-holding performances.  In this episode we discuss: Rami is originally from Iraq, but grew up in Iran, then moved to Sweden at age 10/11 Rami started sport with football, then eventually mixed martial arts. What is it like to be a fighter? Rami's fighting history. Rami has two young daughters. How did he come to discover freediving? Rami started off with a 187m DYN! He now focuses mainly on static apnea. Are there any similarities between STA and MMA? Did triathlon help with freediving, STA, lung capacity? Rami had a 9.5l lung capacity after packing last time he tested. Why static?! A question from Freediving Journal co-host Jordy Duncan about drive and motivation? Some chat about Rami's training methodology. Shout out to Erika Shagatay, episode # Shout out to Valdemar Karlsson How did Rami injury his breathing muscles with packing? Shout out to Akim Ladhari. How many times does he pack and how? Advice for those wishing to improve their statics. Rami's thoughts on hyperventilation. Thoughts on food and nutrition. Best supplements for STA. Rami's interesting mental strategies for dealing with long statics. Another question from Jordy about plans after the World Championships. DESERT ISLAND QUESTIONS Rami's biggest influences. Why does he freedive? Join me in Dahab, Egypt for freediving courses and training the whole year round. Find out about my teaching philosophy at <a href="https://freediveandthrive.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://freediveandthrive.com</a>

#133 | Rami Bladlav | Static Warrior

Guillaume Néry is one of the most iconic figures in the freediving world. A World Champion, world record achiever and a filmmaker who has introduced the underwater world and freediving to millions.In this episode we discuss:Guillaume grew up next to the sea in Nice, France.Does going naked in the bed improve breath hold ability?Meeting Claude Chapuis, his mentor.Remembering Loïc LefermePioneers of the freediving world.How were the big dives performed back in the day?Guillaume's current approach to depth progression.Guillaume's changing approach to training over the years.The universal understandings of the elite level freediver.The full story of Guillaume's 139m dive and accident in Cyprus in 2015.Why did Guillaume retire from competition after that incident?Is Guillaume Nery really back on the freediving competition scene?A question from Patreon supporter Maria about Guillaume's pool diving.Why don't we like pool training?!A question from Patreon supporter David about achieving relaxation and CO2 tolerance during filming videos.How involved in the artistic process is Guillaume when making videos with his former wife Julie Gautier.Guillaume has recently released a new book: Nature Aquatique, currently only available in French.Coral Gardeners video and ocean conservation work Guillaume is doing now, and what we can do about the issue of ocean degradation.DESERT ISLAND QUESTIONS - Patreon ExclusiveTime and relaxation.Why does he freedive?Shout outs to Claude Chapuis and Loïc Leferme.Join me in Dahab, Egypt for freediving courses and training the whole year round. Find out about my teaching philosophy at https://freediveandthrive.com

Guillaume Néry is one of the most iconic figures in the freediving world. A World Champion, world record achiever and a filmmaker who has introduced the underwater world and freediving to millions. In this episode we discuss: Guillaume grew up next to the sea in Nice, France. Does going naked in the bed improve breath hold ability? Meeting Claude Chapuis, his mentor. Remembering Loïc Leferme Pioneers of the freediving world. How were the big dives performed back in the day? Guillaume's current approach to depth progression. Guillaume's changing approach to training over the years. The universal understandings of the elite level freediver. The full story of Guillaume's 139m dive and accident in Cyprus in 2015. Why did Guillaume retire from competition after that incident? Is Guillaume Nery really back on the freediving competition scene? A question from Patreon supporter Maria about Guillaume's pool diving. Why don't we like pool training?! A question from Patreon supporter David about achieving relaxation and CO2 tolerance during filming videos. How involved in the artistic process is Guillaume when making videos with his former wife Julie Gautier. Guillaume has recently released a new book: Nature Aquatique, currently only available in French. Coral Gardeners video and ocean conservation work Guillaume is doing now, and what we can do about the issue of ocean degradation. DESERT ISLAND QUESTIONS - Patreon Exclusive Time and relaxation. Why does he freedive? Shout outs to Claude Chapuis and Loïc Leferme. Join me in Dahab, Egypt for freediving courses and training the whole year round. Find out about my teaching philosophy at <a href="https://freediveandthrive.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://freediveandthrive.com</a>

#132 | Guillaume Néry | Time & Relaxation

Lily Crespy

Lily Crespy is a former molecular biologist turned freediving coach and instructor. She has represented France several times as an athlete in freediving competitions and is part-owner of the world famous Dahab Freedivers school.In this episode we discuss:Lily is from France.An accidental discovery of freediving, from pharmaceutical company to the ocean.Apnea Total on Koh Tao and a broken leg with a nice boy.Shout out to Julia Mouce at Apnea Bali.Shout out to JP from Freediving Planet and Thibault Guignes at Freedive HQ back in the day.The story of Stephen Keenan and his tragic passing from Lily's perspective who was there at the time on 22 July, 2017.Alessia Zecchini's attempted crossing of the arch at Dahab.How has safety improved at the Blue Hole in Dahab since this accident?Lily's own depth journey and taking part in competitions.Why did Lily decide to move from Dahab back to France?The therapeutic possibilities of freediving.EMDR as treatment for PTSD.How Lily is trying to integrate PTSD treatment with freediving experiences.Why is it so damn hard to teach freediving in France?About Enki, Lily's coaching services: www.enki-coaching.comWhy not go to Corsica?DESERT ISLAND QUESTIONS - PATREON EXCLUSIVEThanks to some special people.Why does Lily freedive?Join me in Dahab, Egypt for freediving courses and training the whole year round. Find out about my teaching philosophy at https://freediveandthrive.com

Lily Crespy is a former molecular biologist turned freediving coach and instructor. She has represented France several times as an athlete in freediving competitions and is part-owner of the world famous Dahab Freedivers school. In this episode we discuss: Lily is from France. An accidental discovery of freediving, from pharmaceutical company to the ocean. Apnea Total on Koh Tao and a broken leg with a nice boy. Shout out to Julia Mouce at Apnea Bali. Shout out to JP from Freediving Planet and Thibault Guignes at Freedive HQ back in the day. The story of Stephen Keenan and his tragic passing from Lily's perspective who was there at the time on 22 July, 2017. Alessia Zecchini's attempted crossing of the arch at Dahab. How has safety improved at the Blue Hole in Dahab since this accident? Lily's own depth journey and taking part in competitions. Why did Lily decide to move from Dahab back to France? The therapeutic possibilities of freediving. EMDR as treatment for PTSD. How Lily is trying to integrate PTSD treatment with freediving experiences. Why is it so damn hard to teach freediving in France? About Enki, Lily's coaching services: <a href="http://www.enki-coaching.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.enki-coaching.com</a> Why not go to Corsica? DESERT ISLAND QUESTIONS - PATREON EXCLUSIVE Thanks to some special people. Why does Lily freedive?Join me in Dahab, Egypt for freediving courses and training the whole year round. Find out about my teaching philosophy at <a href="https://freediveandthrive.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://freediveandthrive.com</a>

#131 | Lily Crespy | Water is the Teacher

Today we are joined by Croatian athlete Lidija Lijic. Lidija is a 5 x world record holder, a World and European champion, a pilot, a climber, a mountaineer, an architect, a motivational speaker  and a Sea Shepherd ambassador. The strength of the Croatian athletes in freediving is well known, Lidija is not an exception. We talked about her Jump Blue Days,  running up mountains with a snorkel in your mouth, an incredible project in the Himalayas with Vitomir Maricic, her love of sport climbing and her possible plans for this years Vertical Blue....In this episode we discuss:Donny's first depth competition experience.New podcast incoming ... The Freediving JournalCourse dates for Donny's Dahab trip.Lidija is from Split, Croatia.Starting to train freediving in Italy.Becoming part of the Croatian national team.Lidija has been competing for about 15 years.The super-high level of Croatian freediving athleticism.Competing back in the Jump Blue days!Lidija is a glider pilot.She works as an architect in the boat-building business.Another of Lidija's hobbies is serious alpine climbing!About running up mountains with a snorkel in the mouth.About a project with Vitomir Maricic, freediving in the Himalayas.After a pause Lidija is getting back into training for big performances.Is she also into depth?What complementary training supports freediving? Sport climbing is a big part of it.Thoughts about nutrition. Lidija is a vegetarian.Lidija's environmental work and work she does with Sea Shepherd.About Lidija's work as an architect on super luxury yachts.|What interests does she have outside of freediving?Lidija is planning to go to Vertical Blue in 2022.DESERT ISLAND QUESTIONS - Patreon ExclusiveOptions for coaching and workshops with Lidija.Motivational speeches and lectures.Why does she freedive?Join me in Dahab, Egypt for freediving courses and training the whole year round. Find out about my teaching philosophy at https://freediveandthrive.com

Today we are joined by Croatian athlete Lidija Lijic.  Lidija is a 5 x world record holder, a World and European champion, a pilot, a climber, a mountaineer, an architect, a motivational speaker  and a Sea Shepherd ambassador.  The strength of the Croatian athletes in freediving is well known, Lidija is not an exception. We talked about her Jump Blue Days,  running up mountains with a snorkel in your mouth, an incredible project in the Himalayas with Vitomir Maricic, her love of sport climbing and her possible plans for this years Vertical Blue.... In this episode we discuss: Donny's first depth competition experience. New podcast incoming ... The Freediving Journal Course dates for Donny's Dahab trip. Lidija is from Split, Croatia. Starting to train freediving in Italy. Becoming part of the Croatian national team. Lidija has been competing for about 15 years. The super-high level of Croatian freediving athleticism. Competing back in the Jump Blue days! Lidija is a glider pilot. She works as an architect in the boat-building business. Another of Lidija's hobbies is serious alpine climbing! About running up mountains with a snorkel in the mouth. About a project with Vitomir Maricic, freediving in the Himalayas. After a pause Lidija is getting back into training for big performances. Is she also into depth? What complementary training supports freediving? Sport climbing is a big part of it. Thoughts about nutrition. Lidija is a vegetarian. Lidija's environmental work and work she does with Sea Shepherd. About Lidija's work as an architect on super luxury yachts.| What interests does she have outside of freediving? Lidija is planning to go to Vertical Blue in 2022. DESERT ISLAND QUESTIONS - Patreon Exclusive Options for coaching and workshops with Lidija. Motivational speeches and lectures. Why does she freedive? Join me in Dahab, Egypt for freediving courses and training the whole year round. Find out about my teaching philosophy at <a href="https://freediveandthrive.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://freediveandthrive.com</a>

#130 | Lidija Lijic | Flying High

Stig Severinsen

Stig Severinsen has a degree in biology and a Ph.D. in medicine. He began experimenting with holding his breath as a child at the bottom of his parents’ pool.Stig has played underwater rugby at an elite level, he's been a freediving world record holder, he's broken a few Guinness world records, he was the first to break the 20m breath hold barrier on pure O2 among other feats of human endurance, and now he works on spreading the word about his system Breatheology, a set of tools and techniques derived from 3 specific areas;The art and science of breath control and yogaResearch on human physiology and neurologyModern sport exercise training and FLOW psychology.In this episode we discuss:Stig's been on Youtube and using the internet for education and spreading his work for a long time.Stig's background and how he grew up and got into the underwater world.The wonderful worlds of underwater hockey and underwater rugby.Stig's early friendship with Carlos Coste.Is Stig still keeping up with the contemporary freediving scene?Shout out to Johan ThelausReminiscences on the 'Golden Age' of freediving.Shout out to Umberto Pelizzari.What kind of training methods did Stig and friends discover back in the day?Attitudes to training these days.Early experimentation with nutrition.Stig has achieved many firsts including the first 20 minute breath-hold (pure oxygen assistance).What is Breatheology?DESERT ISLAND QUESTIONS - Patreon ExclusiveJoin me in Dahab, Egypt for freediving courses and training the whole year round. Find out about my teaching philosophy at https://freediveandthrive.com

Stig Severinsen has a degree in biology and a Ph.D. in medicine. He began experimenting with holding his breath as a child at the bottom of his parents’ pool. Stig has played underwater rugby at an elite level, he's been a freediving world record holder, he's broken a few Guinness world records, he was the first to break the 20m breath hold barrier on pure O2 among other feats of human endurance, and now he works on spreading the word about his system Breatheology, a set of tools and techniques derived from 3 specific areas;<ol><li>The art and science of breath control and yoga</li><li>Research on human physiology and neurology</li><li>Modern sport exercise training and FLOW psychology.</li></ol>In this episode we discuss: Stig's been on Youtube and using the internet for education and spreading his work for a long time. Stig's background and how he grew up and got into the underwater world. The wonderful worlds of underwater hockey and underwater rugby. Stig's early friendship with Carlos Coste. Is Stig still keeping up with the contemporary freediving scene? Shout out to Johan Thelaus Reminiscences on the 'Golden Age' of freediving. Shout out to Umberto Pelizzari. What kind of training methods did Stig and friends discover back in the day? Attitudes to training these days. Early experimentation with nutrition. Stig has achieved many firsts including the first 20 minute breath-hold (pure oxygen assistance). What is Breatheology? DESERT ISLAND QUESTIONS - Patreon Exclusive Join me in Dahab, Egypt for freediving courses and training the whole year round. Find out about my teaching philosophy at <a href="https://freediveandthrive.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://freediveandthrive.com</a>

#129 | Stig Severinsen | Breatheology

Great interviews.  Learning a lot on improving my free diving.

Deep knowledge

Definitely great podcast to learn from those experts!!!

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