What Happens When You Say Yes to Life? World-Record Spearfisher Summer Sawaya on Personal Growth, Courage, and Unexpected Success

Sometimes the experiences that change our lives the most begin with a simple invitation.In this episode, I sit down with Summer Sawaya, a three-time world record holder in spearfishing, Salt Life Ambassador, real estate agent, and cast member from Discovery Channel’s Survive the Raft.Summer grew up in a small town outside Buffalo, New York, far from the world of freediving, sustainable fishing, and ocean adventures. But one invitation in Key West led her to try something completely new, and that experience opened the door to an adventure lifestyle she never could have imagined.We talk about how Summer found her way into spearfishing, what it taught her about personal growth, courage, and trusting herself, and what it was like becoming one of the female divers in a male-dominated sport. She also shares a glimpse into her time on Survive the Raft and the lessons it gave her about people, pressure, slowing down, and paying attention to what really matters. In this episode, you’ll learn:How one invitation helped Summer discover a new passionWhat drew her into the world of spearfishing and adventure travel How freediving shaped her confidence in the water Why confidence often comes from being willing to figure things out as you goHow Summer learned to move through fear, pressure, and uncertaintyWhat being in a male-dominated sport has taught herHow sustainable fishing changed the way she thinks about food and natureWhat Summer learned about human connection, resilience, and what truly matters Why taking a break from technology and everyday noise can change how you see your lifeIf you have ever felt called toward something new or wondered what might happen if you said yes, this conversation is a beautiful reminder that personal growth often begins with one brave decision.Hit play and let’s grow together, KimberlyConnect with me:Website: https://www.kimberlyhand.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/kimberlyhand_Shop The Cinnamon Effect Journal here: https://thecinnamoneffect.com/journalThe Cinnamon Effect is recorded at PodPlus Studios (@PodPlusStudios ) in Jupiter, Florida, and produced by Hype Boss ( @hype-boss-hype-boss )For more information, visit https://www.podplusstudios.com.Connect with Summer Sawaya:Instagram: @summersawaya for spearfishing and adventureInstagram: @sawaya.realestate for real estate