A Family That Dives Together Stays Together -

Between Two Corals
-A One Dive Family Podcast-

EPISODE 1

A Family That Dives Together Stays Together

Article by Jason Meany

At SDI, diving isn’t just about exploring the underwater world, it’s about the people we share those experiences with. That sense of connection is at the heart of Between Two Corals – A One Dive Family Podcast, where we dive into the stories, insights, and experiences that shape our community.

Hosted by Jason Meany, SDI’s Director of Education, the podcast brings together voices from all corners of the dive industry to talk about training, adventure, and what it means to be part of the One Dive Family.

In this first episode, Jason sits down with Sean Harrison, Senior Vice President of SDI – Scuba Diving International, to discuss what it’s like raising a family of divers. Diving is often seen as an individual pursuit or something for buddy teams, but for many, it’s a shared experience that strengthens family bonds and creates lasting memories.

Sean reflects on introducing his two sons to diving—an experience that proved to be as rewarding as it was eye-opening. As any dive instructor knows, not every student progresses at the same pace, especially for young divers. While Sean’s younger son was eager and ready to take on the whole certification process, his older son initially struggled with the academic portion, even though he was a natural in the water.

“Even though we allow people to certify at 10 years old, that doesn’t necessarily mean they’re ready. My older son was great in the water, but the academic side wasn’t clicking for him. We had to shelve it for a few years until he was ready to take it seriously.” – Sean Harrison.

This personal experience underscores an important message for parents considering diving for their children: readiness isn’t just about age, it’s about comfort, understanding, and a willingness to learn.

A Family That Dives Together Stays Together

The Evolution of Dive Education

The way young divers learn has changed significantly over the years, thanks in part to advancements in digital learning. Today’s generation is growing up in an online world where information is available at their fingertips, and this has transformed the way kids engage with scuba training.

“Younger divers today adapt quickly to e-learning. My twins will grab their tablet and start their training independently, while my oldest had to sit down with a laptop.” – Jason Meany.

This shift has made it easier than ever for young divers to begin their education on their terms. However, as Sean and Jason discuss, no amount of digital convenience can replace hands-on experience in the water. The key is finding the right balance between technology-driven learning and real-world practice.

Encouraging Independence in Young Divers

One of the biggest challenges parents and instructors face when training young divers is ensuring they develop the skills and confidence to dive independently. While it’s natural for kids to look to their parents or instructors for guidance, there’s a fine line between support and dependence.

“We always encourage complete independence. If you can carry it, carry it. If you can put it together, put it together. If you need help, that doesn’t mean someone does it for you—it means you’re asking for assistance.” – Sean Harrison.

This philosophy doesn’t just apply to diving, it’s a life lesson that can help kids develop confidence in any situation. By taking ownership of their gear, dive planning, and problem-solving, young divers become safer, more self-reliant, and ultimately better prepared for the adventures that await them.

Why Diving Strengthens Family Bonds

Diving is unique because it isn’t just a sport, it’s an experience that fosters deep connections between those who share it. Whether it’s the thrill of seeing marine life for the first time, the teamwork required for a smooth dive, or simply the quiet moments spent drifting together underwater, these experiences create bonds that last a lifetime.

For Jason and his daughter, diving has become a shared passion that has brought them closer together.

“Lea is obsessed with night diving. She won’t even turn on her light unless I ask her to. She’s completely in love with the experience of just being in that world.” – Jason Meany.

Sean echoes this sentiment, recalling how diving has given his sons a sense of adventure and curiosity. From exploring the lakes of New England to the reefs of Mexico, every dive has allowed them to grow as individuals and as a family.

“When I took my youngest to Hawaii, he was amazed at the sheer size of the creatures. Seeing dolphins, massive turtles, and even sharks up close was a new world for him. Those are the moments that stick with you.” – Sean Harrison

The conversation highlights an essential takeaway for parents and divers alike: Diving is more than a skill—it’s a shared experience that creates stories, traditions, and a lifelong love for the ocean.

Listen to the Full Episode

The first episode of Between Two Corals – A One Dive Family Podcast offers an engaging look at how diving can bring families together. Whether you’re a parent considering certification for your child or simply someone who appreciates the deeper connections formed through diving, this conversation is one you won’t want to miss.

Watch „A Family That Dives Together, Stays Together“ now on YouTube.

Remember to subscribe for future episodes featuring industry leaders, instructors, and passionate divers worldwide.

0 replies