Risking it All for a Simpler, Happier Life: Valentine Thomas on Why She Quit Her Job as a Lawyer to Become a Professional Free Diver, Spearfisher and Conservationist — Muscle Maven Radio Episode #2

Canadian-born Valentine Thomas (@valentinethomas) is a trained lawyer who worked in finance in London for six years before leaving it all to travel the world and spread the word about eating and fishing responsibly. She's a Freediving Instructor with PADI, professional traveller, accomplished chef, TEDx speaker, entrepreneur and soon-to-be cookbook author.

Learn why a trained lawyer left her cushy job and life in London to live in her car before becoming a freediver, spearfisher, chef, and sustainable fishing and eating advocate. We discuss the risks and joys of working in the ocean; the challenges of being a woman in a male-dominated profession; how she got over a near-drowning and subsequent fear of the water by becoming a freediving instructor; tips on how to hunt, shop, and eat sustainably and ethically; and why it's important to spend your time doing what you love (even if it's risky).

Episode Breakdown:

4-16 Why Valentine quit her lucrative career to become a spearfisher and free diver, and what it takes to learn these challenging and dangerous skills

17–25: Why hunting is a primal, and deeply respectful, part of human nature, and how to get people to care more about ethical eating– whether you're vegan, carnivore, or anywhere in between

25-36: We talk about the realities and challenges of her life (despite the glamorous Instagram account), including sleeping in her car, having a voice in a male-dominated world, and maintaining relationships when you're never in one place

36–54: All about risks: how Valentine overcame near -drowning and a deathly fear of the water (including severe anxiety and agoraphobia) to enjoy a life spent almost entirely in the water; a discussion on the inherent risks and rewards of stepping outside the box of what's expected of you and doing what truly makes you happy

54: Helpful tips on the best and worst fish to eat as well as how we can all make the best food choices for ourselves and the planet

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Show notes: http://www.shruggedcollective.com/mmr-valentine

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Shrugged Collective is a network of fitness, health and performance shows that help people achieve their physical and mental health goals. Usually in the gym, but outside as well. In 2012 they posted their first Barbell Shrugged podcast and have been putting out weekly free videos and podcasts ever since.

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