https://www.buzzsprout.com/admin/1961195/episodes/18078892-mini-adventures-big-impact

Release Date: October 29, 2025

Episode Overview

Welcome to Navigating Neva, the podcast where aquatic leaders, educators, and innovators explore how empathy, education, and evidence collide to create safer, smarter, and more connected swim programs.

In our very first episode, “Mini Adventures, Big Impact,” Nicole and Wesley sit down with Helen Hughes, founder of Mini Water Adventurers, who joins us all the way from the U.K. ahead of her upcoming U.S. debut at the Treasure Coast YMCA workshop in Stuart, Florida.

Together, we dive into how play, curiosity, and emotional safety can transform early swim learning—helping instructors rediscover joy in teaching and helping children develop confidence that lasts a lifetime.

What You’ll Discover

• How play-based movement supports motor learning and confidence
• The connection between emotional safety and skill retention
• How Joyful Waters and Mini Water Adventurers work alongside—not against—traditional certifications
• What to expect from the Treasure Coast YMCA weekend workshop (Nov 15–16, 2025)
• How collaboration between global educators is raising the bar for aquatic education

Upcoming Workshop

• Joyful Waters × Mini Water Adventurers Workshop
  📍 Treasure Coast YMCA – Stuart, FL
  🗓️ November 15–16, 2025

Register here 

 Join Helen Hughes and Neva Nicole for two immersive days of classroom insight and poolside exploration that bring connection, play, and professional renewal to your teaching.

Join the Conversation

Have a story about teaching through play or overcoming fear in the water?
Share it on social media or tag us to be featured in a future episode.

About Navigating Neva

Navigating Neva is hosted by Neva Nicole, founder of Georgia Swim School and Joyful Waters, and Wesley King, aquatic consultant and coach.
Together, they explore the human side of aquatics—from leadership and lifeguarding to early learning and water safety innovation.

Our mission: Zero Drownings. Lifelong Swimmers.