#097 – When it comes to living an adventurous life, Edward Olu is a name that resonates with spirit and determination. On this episode of Journey with Jake Edward shared his remarkable journey from his Nigerian roots to becoming an author and a scuba diver who has explored underwater realms across all seven continents. His children’s book, “Around the World in Eight Dives: Scuba Diving All Seven Continents,” is not only a testament to his love for scuba diving but also encapsulates life lessons and the pursuit of the edge of fear that have dramatically reshaped his outlook on life.
The conversation with Edward is a deep dive into the concept of adventure, which, according to him, isn’t limited to extreme activities. Adventure is sewn into the fabric of our daily lives and can be as simple as trying a new food at the local market or picking up skateboarding. These stories emphasize the importance of adventure in shaping a balanced and fulfilling life.
Edward’s diving adventures began with a personal transformation and an open water certification. Despite initially lacking swimming prowess, he went on to become a dive master. His quest for underwater exploration led him to gear up for various diving conditions and travel across all 7 continents, culminating in a challenging but successful dive in Antarctica in March 2023. He regales listeners with his experiences in the kelp forests of Southern California, the clear waters of Iceland’s Silfra fissure, and the preparations for extreme cold water diving.
The conversation then turns to the meticulous preparations necessary for cold water diving, such as transitioning from wetsuits to drysuits and the importance of practice. Edward shares his trials and successes in extreme diving conditions, the logistics of travel to remote locations, and the magical experiences that come with diving in less crowded sites during the pandemic. 
Looking forward, Edward envisions future dives as selective masterpieces. With a newfound interest in freediving, he speaks of his eagerness to share the magic of the oceans with his children. The discussion highlights the importance of choice in our adventures and the serenity that comes from a balanced approach to the thrill of seeking new experiences.
As we near the end of the episode, Edward’s passion for life and the spirit of exploration remind us that it’s the journey that defines us, not just the destinations we reach. The episode is a call to all to join this extraordinary exploration, where the spirit of adventure knows no bounds.
Edward’s journey teaches us that to live adventurously means to embrace the unknown with joy and to challenge ourselves to reach beyond the comfortable and familiar. Whether it’s diving into icy waters, exploring new cultures, or simply trying something new, every step we take into the unknown enriches our lives and gives us stories to tell. Edward Olu’s story is one of inspiration, showing that the depths of the oceans and the heights of human spirit are waiting to be explored.