Between Two Corals Next Gen Dive Talk -

Between Two Corals
-A One Dive Family Podcast-

EPISODE 3

Next Gen Dive Talk: Wrecks, Sharks & Night Dives

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.

“If I never got into diving, I wouldn’t be here where I am today.”

What happens when the next generation takes the mic? Jack Carney and Layla Meany take over hosting with their Special Guest Sierra Hamlin to talk about growing up with fins on their feet, tanks on their backs, and the ocean as their second home in this special youth-led episode of Between Two Corals.

From first dives and favorite marine animals to night dives, wrecks, and dreams of Truk Lagoon, this candid conversation captures both the awe and adventure of diving as a kid—and the lasting impact it leaves.

Wrecks, Reefs & First Dives

Each diver shared the dive that made them fall in love with the sport. For Jack, it was seeing tarpon sheltering under the Hilma Hooker in Bonaire:

“I like how the ship is on its side, and you could see how all the tarpon like to relax under the ship.”

Sierra recounted her early experiences diving the Stolt off New Jersey:

“It opened a whole new world of diving to me.”

Layla, who trained in her backyard pool before diving the Keystorm in the St. Lawrence River, shared:

“It’s insane. You stare at one piece of coral and find thousands of little organisms making it home.”

Sharks, Night Dives & Eel Encounters

This episode was full of memorable marine life moments—from bioluminescent safety stops to dodging tarpon and moray eels. Sierra recalled a moment of underwater chaos:

“Next thing I know, one of our dive buddies is going Bwaaaah! Underwater… it was a full-grown moray eel, circling us at the bottom.”

Layla described being mesmerized by barracudas and seeing shrimp dart across the reef during a night dive:

“We looked ridiculous swinging our arms around at our safety stop, but it was so fun.”

Jack’s take on diving at night?

“My night dive was one of my favorite dives—especially here in Bonaire, where there are all the different creatures.”

What’s Next: Big Goals & Big Fish

When asked about future goals, the next-gen divers didn’t hesitate. Sierra aims for SDI Divemaster certification:

“I miss the personalized dive shop experience… fingers crossed I can go back and see Ed and Kevin and get my Divemaster with them.”

Layla wants to become a freediver:

“It’s very cool how people dive down without a tank. I want to try it.”

As for dream dives, Truk Lagoon, whale shark migrations in the Philippines, and even oil rigs off Texas made the list.

A Family Affair

Ultimately, the episode is a reminder of how diving creates deep bonds across generations. When asked who inspired them to dive, the answers were unanimous: parents, mentors, and instructors.

“My dad is my role model… my hero.” – Sierra.
“If I never got into diving, I wouldn’t be here seeing all these cool things.” – Layla.
“My dad was one of the first people actually to let me put on a scuba tank.” – Jack.

Final Thoughts

From wreck dives to reef ecosystems, and shark fascination to rescue diver training, this episode captures the infectious enthusiasm of young divers exploring the underwater world with curiosity, courage, and joy.

Whether you’re new to diving or a seasoned pro, hearing the ocean through their eyes is a powerful reminder of why we do what we do—and who we’re doing it for.

Watch Episode 3 on YouTube
Listen on Spotify
Apple Podcasts