074 - Join the fascinating journey of Mario Ruiz, the Black Scuba Bear, on this episode of Journey with Jake. As your host I assure you this is not just a story about scuba diving. It's a journey of discovery, of connecting with the world beneath the surface, and of finding one's purpose in life. We'll start with Mario's early life in Miami, explore his love for water and marine life in California, and get glimpses of his awe-inspiring experiences with hammerhead sharks and black iguanas in the Galapagos Islands.

Prepare to be captivated as Mario takes us through the meticulous physical and mental preparation that goes into a dive day. Feel the thrill and the tension on the boat, the breathtaking beauty underwater, and the challenges that come with the sport. Mario's narrative will give you an idea about the importance of alertness, responsiveness, and understanding of air types in scuba diving. And that's not all; you'll also hear about his 'bear blessings,' a unique ritual that signifies the power of curiosity.

But wait, there's more! In the climax of our discussion, we'll go heart-to-heart about Mario's noble goal to help children with disabilities learn to scuba dive. Hear his valuable tips for beginners, his favorite underwater stories, and why having an experienced guide is crucial for safe diving. Stick around as Mario reveals his aspirations and how his passion for scuba diving can serve as an inspiration for others. This episode is a treasure trove of adventure and motivation, a story that will leave you fascinated and fired up. Tune in to Journey with Jake and brace yourself for an awe-inspiring ride beneath the waves with The Black Scuba Bear!

Be sure and follow Mario on social media @iamblackscubabear and check out all his adventures through that medium.  Please give me a follow as well @journeywithjakepodcast to get to know my guests and myself a little better and be part of the Journey with Jake community.