In this episode of the Unexpected Hobbies of Financial Advisors podcast, hosts Brian Wright and Joshua Walker sit down with financial advisor Brooke Stanford to discuss her exhilarating and unconventional hobby of free diving with sharks. Brooke shares how her adventurous upbringing in a surfing and diving family led her to this unique passion, and how she transitioned from competitive surfing to wildlife exploration under the sea. From the colorful parrotfish of South Florida to the thrill of encountering various shark species, Brooke provides insights into the world of free diving, the challenges and joys it brings, and the careful balance between enjoying nature and ensuring safety. Tune in to learn about Brooke's diving expeditions across the globe, the memorable moments and close calls, and how this hobby has influenced her professional life.
00:00 Introduction to the Podcast
00:21 Meet Brooke Stanford: Free Diving with Sharks
00:50 Brooke's Adventurous Family Background
01:42 Early Experiences in Free Diving
02:02 Diving Locations and Wildlife Encounters
04:31 The Appeal of Free Diving Over Scuba
07:17 Family and Friends in Diving
12:36 Traveling for Diving Adventures
13:50 Future Diving Goals and Aspirations
14:51 Diving Community and Competitions
19:49 Diving Depths and Breath-Holding
20:26 Wildlife Encounters and Techniques
22:04 Travel and Diving Destinations
22:51 Spearfishing and Safety Concerns
24:25 Memorable Diving Experiences
25:33 Applying Diving Lessons to Life
26:59 Training and Equipment
31:02 Future Diving Goals and Reflections
34:25 Conclusion and Final Thoughts