Confluence with Jason Baffa

On this episode of the Swell Season Surf Podcast, We talk to filmmaker Jason Baffa about his significant contributions to surf cinema and the broader impact of his work. We discuss his landmark film 'Single Fin Yellow,' and his subsequent projects like 'Loopers: The Caddy's Long Walk,' and the Disney Plus series 'Chasing Waves.' Baffa shares his experiences with integrating high-definition photography with live music in his latest project 'Confluence,' and reflects on his career, his Italian heritage, and his organic wine collaboration with Zio Baffa.Our conversation covers a range of topics from the democratization of surf media, the evolution of surf culture, and the technological advancements transforming filmmaking. Additionally, we get into it about the logistics and financial challenges of surf filmmaking, the challenges with new technologies like AI, and the importance of storytelling. Jason Shares his insights into future projects, distribution ideas, and preserving the history and creativity of surf culture. We hope you enjoy this episode of the Swell Season Surf Podcast. To find Jason Baffa you can follow him on Instagram @jasonbaffafilms and check out his website: https://www.jasonbaffafilms.comHis latest film, “Confluence” is out now for download at The Surf NetworkThe Swell Season Surf Podcast is recorded by The NewsStand Studio at Rockefeller Center in the heart of Manhattan and is distributed by The Swell Season Surf Radio Network. For more information, you can follow @swellseasonsurfradio on Instagram or go to our website: www.swellseasonsurf.com Music: Artist: BluebirdSong: Wounded KidsAlbum: Black Presence00:00 Welcome to the Swell Season Surf Podcast01:17 The Impact of Single Fin Yellow02:29 Jason Baffa's Cinematic Journey03:44 Introduction of Jason Baffa04:45 Reflecting on a Filmmaking Career05:45 Influences and Inspirations06:41 The Evolution of Surf Filmmaking11:00 The Barefoot Wine Project13:10 Creating Zio Baffa Wine17:06 The Making of Bella Vita19:20 Exploring Surf Culture in Italy30:24 The Democratization of Surfing44:10 The Evolution of Action Sports Media44:54 Surfboard Design and Cultural Shifts46:08 The Fun and Freedom of Foamies47:59 Challenges in Surf Media Distribution50:03 The Golden Age of Surf Films51:13 The Business of Surf Films59:03 Wave Pools and Surf Culture01:01:58 The Future of Surf Media01:06:00 The Role of Storytelling in Surfing01:06:53 Live Screenings and Audience Engagement01:14:46 The Impact of AI on Surf Media01:21:40 Exploring Future Media Platforms01:22:43 Innovative Ideas for Filmmakers01:25:08 The Role of Editors in Filmmaking01:26:44 Upcoming Projects and Inspirations01:28:36 Midlife Reflections and Career Choices01:31:26 Challenges in the Film Industry01:41:00 The Streaming Dilemma01:43:36 Current Surfing Content and Influences01:48:26 Promoting the New Film01:55:41 Final Thoughts and FarewellsBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/swell-season--3483504/support.

On this episode of the Swell Season Surf Podcast, we talk with Dr. Tara Ruttenberg, a surf tourism expert, about the negative impacts of surf tourism and the search for empowering tourism models that benefit local communities. Dr. Ruttenberg, a writer, researcher, and PhD in development studies, shares her journey into surf tourism study, inspired by her surf experiences in Costa Rica. The conversation covers the impact of surf travel on local communities, the concept of sustainable surf tourism, the role of localism, and practical ways surfers can travel more responsibly. Dr. Ruttenberg explains how her research aims to create non-growth-oriented, community-centered alternatives to traditional tourism models. Additionally, we discuss the ethical challenges expats face when moving to surf destinations and effective strategies for ensuring local communities benefit from surf tourism. Dr. Ruttenberg created Tarantula Surf as a platform for authentic sharing and engaging with alternative socioecological paradigms for a more beautiful world. Dr. Tara Rutten is our guest on this episode of The Swell Season Surf Podcast  Side Note: We discuss Keven Lovett’s story about the development of Nias and is included in a much larger film called ‘Point of Change’ by Rebecca Coley. You can learn more about the film here: https://pointofchangefilm.com/To find Dr. Tara Ruttenberg you can follow her on Instagram @tarantulasurf and check out her website: https://www.tarantulasurf.com/The Swell Season Surf Podcast is recorded by The NewsStand Studio at Rockefeller Center in the heart of Manhattan and is distributed by The Swell Season Surf Radio Network.For more information, you can follow @swellseasonsurfradio on Instagram or go to our website: www.swellseasonsurf.com Music:Artist: BjorkSong: Human BehaviorAlbum: Debut00:00 Introduction to the Swell Season Surf Podcast02:14 The Impact of Surf Tourism04:10 Dr. Tara Ruttenberg's Journey07:12 The Complexities of Surf Travel17:37 Sustainable Surf Tourism Models33:44 Community-Based Research in Playa Hermosa35:57 Exploring Alternatives to Capitalist Surf Tourism36:50 Decentering Capitalist Logics in Surf Tourism38:08 Challenges of Implementing Non-Colonial Models41:07 Local Ownership and Surf Tourism Dynamics42:25 Community Resistance and Surf Tourism46:18 The Impact of Expats on Local Surf Communities53:16 Access to Beaches and Privatization Issues01:04:35 Sustainable Surf Travel Tips01:05:53 Tarantula Surf and Future Projects01:09:06 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/swell-season--3483504/support.

Our Guest on this episode is freelance content creator, Jon Coen from Long Beach Island. Jon has been a consummate champion of Northeast surfing for over 20+ years. When the surf magazines were still in their heyday, Jon would be the go to guy for anything in the Northeast happening. He always fought to get local events, surfers, and creatives to get the greater promotion and exposure when the west coast would ignore us. On this episode we touch on various facets of his career, including content roles with notable brands like Jetty Surf, Vuori, and Red Bull. Jon elaborates on the unique surf culture in Long Beach Island and the community dynamics that sustain it despite challenges like beach replenishment. We highlight LBI local events like The Clam Jam and The Coquina Surf Jam.  Jon emphasizes the importance of a supportive local surf community. The conversation explores broader themes within surf culture, tracing the surf community's ties with music, and looks ahead to the potential resurgence of Surfer Magazine, aiming to prioritize authentic storytelling and diverse local voices in the surf industry. This episode encapsulates the passion and evolving nature of surf culture, emphasizing the importance of community and localized narratives. We hope you enjoy this episode…To find Jon Coen you can follow him on Instagram @coennoinsta and check out his blog: https://daysonfile.com/ The Swell Season Surf Podcast is recorded by The NewsStand Studio at Rockefeller Center in the heart of Manhattan and is distributed by The Swell Season Surf Radio Network.For more information, you can follow @swellseasonsurfradio on Instagram or go to our website: www.swellseasonsurf.com Music:Artist: Texas is The ReasonSong: It It’s Here When We Get Back It’s OursAlbum: Do You Know Who You Are? 00:00 Introduction to the Swell Season Surf Podcast01:18 Meet John Cohen: Champion of Northeast Surfing01:59 John's Journey and Contributions02:51 A Warm Welcome and Mutual Connections03:19 Life in Long Beach Island04:13 Surfing Stories and Local Legends06:02 Balancing Work and Surfing13:47 Challenges of Surfing in LBI19:29 New Jersey vs. New York Surfing25:44 The Importance of Surf Shops34:32 Surf Industry Pioneers and Challenges35:39 Jetty: A Brand with Heart and Soul37:15 The Essence of Jetty's Philosophy38:17 Community and Connection through Surfing44:56 The Clam Jam: Building Bridges Across Generations51:14 The Impact of Superstorm Sandy52:28 The Evolution of Surf Culture and Media59:24 New Jersey's Influence on Surfing01:05:11 Introducing Jake: The New Editor01:05:31 Reflecting on Kevin Welsh's Legacy01:06:29 The Future of Surfer Magazine01:08:10 Surfers and Their Musical Influences01:10:03 The Evolution of Music and Surf Culture01:14:25 The Role of Music in Surf Films01:15:46 Punk Rock and Surfing: A Cultural Analysis01:18:47 The Influence of Sublime on Beach Culture01:21:24 Final Thoughts and Future ProjectsBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/swell-season--3483504/support.

In this episode of the Swell Season Surf Podcast, host Tyler Breuer and co-host Paul Colbert engage in a profound discussion with Ken Lewis, a key figure in San Diego's surf, skate, and music scene. Ken Lewis has been described as a pillar in the San Diego surf/skate/music community. Ken shares his life story, from growing up as the son of a spear fisherman in La Jolla Cove to becoming a skate shop owner, Tavarua boatman, and a 30-year industry veteran. He reflects on mentorships from legends like Bird Huffman and Skip Fry, overcoming disenchantment with surfing through skateboarding, and his current surfboard rack business. He shares with us some classic stories including surfing with icons like Joel Tudor and Derek Ho, near-drowning experiences, and a transformative battle with having a stroke and managing his depression. Ken emphasizes the importance of supportive surf communities, empathy, and gratitude in his recovery. The conversation also delves into unique surf spots, evolving surfboard designs, and maintaining a balanced perspective on life and happiness. We are so stoked to have Ken on the show and hope you enjoy… To find Ken Lewis you can follow him on Instagram @hanger18  and check out his online shop: www.thesurfboardrack.comThe Swell Season Surf Podcast is recorded by The NewsStand Studio at Rockefeller Center in the heart of Manhattan and is distributed by The Swell Season Surf Radio Network. For more information, you can follow @swellseasonsurfradio on Instagram or go to our website: www.swellseasonsurf.com Music: Artist: NOFXSong: The Separation of Church & SkateAlbum: The War on ErrorismBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/swell-season--3483504/support.

Dr. Bill Rosenblatt, AKA “Dr. Bill” has been surfing for 50 years all over the world. He’s a licensed psychologist and Senior Fellow in Biofeedback. He holds a doctorate in Counseling from Lehigh University and did post-doctoral work in Clinical Behavioral Medicine at the Mind/Body Medical Institute at Harvard Medical School. He has taught at universities, directed programs at hospitals, He was the freaking Mayor of Loch Arbour in NJ for 10 years!!!! and has written extensively on surfing and life. On this episode of the Swell Season Surf Podcast, we sit down with Dr. Bill Rosenblatt, to discuss his 50-year journey in surfing along with his significant roles in academia, medical fields, and as the former mayor of Lock Arbor, New Jersey. We dive into New Jersey's rich and often overlooked surfing history, the therapeutic benefits of surfing supported by scientific research, and Dr. Bill's substantial environmental and community contributions. Our conversation highlights maintaining health through balanced living and social connections, the diverse insights from different generations, and the unique challenges faced by East Coast surfers. We are really stoked to have Dr. Bill Rosenblatt as our guest on this episode of The Swell Season Surf Podcast. To find Dr. Bill Rosenblatt you can check out his instagram @drviejoThe Swell Season Surf Podcast is recorded by The NewsStand Studio at Rockefeller Center in the heart of Manhattan and is distributed by The Swell Season Surf Radio Network.  For more information, you can follow @swellseasonsurfradio on Instagramor go to our website: www.swellseasonsurf.com Music:Song: Changes in Latitude, Changes in Attitude Artist: Jimmy Buffett Album: Songs You Know By Heart: Jimmy Buffett's Greatest HitsShow Notes:00:00 Introduction to Dr. Bill Rosenblatt03:11 Surfing in New Jersey: A Rich History06:58 Challenges and Triumphs in Surfing Regulations18:16 Economic Impact of Surfing in Asbury Park27:55 Personal Surfing Stories and Reflections42:13 The Vietnam War's Impact on Surfing Careers47:16 The Vietnam War Draft Lottery48:28 Surfing Legends and Adventures48:56 Traveling Through Europe in the 70s50:45 Challenges of Modern Surf TravelBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/swell-season--3483504/support.

Sid Abruzzi: Shaping Surf and Skate Culture - A Live ConversationIn a special live episode of the Swell Season Surf Podcast, host Tyler Breuer engages in an in-depth conversation with Sid Abruzzi, the legendary figure behind Water Brothers Surf Shop in Newport, Rhode Island. Recorded on July 30th at Pilgrim Surf and Supply Shop in Brooklyn, New York, the episode explores Sid's vast influence on East Coast surfing and skateboarding culture, as well as his personal journey depicted in the documentary 'Water Brother.' Highlighted topics include Sid's experiences with renowned surfers and musicians, his sobriety journey, and his dedication to preserving the cultural essence of the sports. The episode also features heartfelt discussions about community support, upcoming film screenings and extensive archival footage curated by the Kinanne brothers.  We hope you enjoy this special episode. To Learn more about future screenings of Water Brother, go to https://www.waterbrotherfilm.com/To Support Sid Abruzzi and The Water Brothers Surf Shop go to: https://originalwaterbrothers.com/The Swell Season Surf Podcast is recorded by The NewsStand Studio at Rockefeller Center in the heart of Manhattan and is distributed by The Swell Season Surf Radio Network.  For more information, you can follow @swellseasonsurfradio on Instagramor go to our website: www.swellseasonsurf.com Music:Song: Bop'Til You DropArtist: RamonesAlbum: Ramones ManiaShow Notes: 00:00 Introduction to the Special Episode01:39 Chris Gentile's Personal History with Sid04:04 Sid's Early Surfing and Skating Days07:24 The Making of the Water Brother Documentary12:17 Growing Up in a Sports-Centric Family18:32 The Surfboard Sales Journey22:52 Experiences in Santa Cruz27:02 Navigating Surfing Politics and Community31:10 Fighting for Surfing Rights at Ruggles Avenue40:25 Music and Cultural Influences44:26 Legendary Jazz Festival Lineup47:03 Mike Tabling: The Best Surfer from the East Coast47:47 Journey to Cocoa Beach49:38 College Days with Mike Tabling50:49 Mike Tabling's Surfboards and Filmmaking51:41 Adventures in Jeffrey's Bay52:59 Mickey Dora Encounters55:16 Tom Curren's First Wave at Jeffrey's Bay58:36 Derek Hine's Surfing Career01:01:59 Red Bull Surf Safari01:03:45 Dennis the Cabbie: Local Legend01:05:22 Generosity and Community Spirit01:09:19 Challenges of Running a Surf Shop01:16:03 Surf and Skate Culture Evolution01:22:28 Sobriety and Personal Growth01:24:24 Music and Big World Band01:26:47 Reflecting on Influence and Legacy01:28:34 Film Screening and Q&ABecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/swell-season--3483504/support.

If you don’t know who Scott Hulet is, do you even surf? He was the editor of The Surfers Journal from 1999 to 2014 and stayed on as a creative editor since. Some can argue he is one of the most important curators of our culture.  We delve into Scott's career, his tenure at Surfer's Journal (1999-2014), and his latest book 'Flow Violento'. It is a beautiful exploration of his travels south of the border. It’s filled with compelling observations, surfy  musings, and some eye popping fishing tales. Our discussion covers Scott's travels, his personal philosophy on writing, and the evolution of surfing culture. He gives us insights into surf journalism's challenges, the digital media landscape, and the push and pull of audience dynamics. Scott also talks about his dietary preferences for clean living, experiences with wild game, and future travel plans to South America and Sardinia. Flow Violento is published by The Surfers Journal and Scott is our guest on this episode of The Swell Season Podcast. You can get a copy of Scott’s book Flow Violento at www.thesurfersjournal.com The Swell Season Surf Podcast is recorded by The NewsStand Studio at Rockefeller Center in the heart of Manhattan and is distributed by The Swell Season Surf Radio Network.  For more information, you can follow @swellseasonsurfradio on Instagramor go to our website: www.swellseasonsurf.com Music: Song: Veinte AnosArtist: Buena Vista Social ClubAlbum: Buena Vista Social Club 00:00 Introduction to the Swell Season Surf Podcast02:19 Meeting Scott Hewlett: A Personal Anecdote02:52 Scott Hewlett's Writing Style and New Book05:41 Scott's Early Surfing Experiences08:39 Traveling Through Latin America11:04 The Thrill and Danger of Surfing in Mexico27:10 The Evolution of Surf Journalism41:53 Scott's Health Journey and Its Impact55:59 The State of Surf Journalism59:18 Challenges in Representation01:01:38 Personal Reflections and Criticisms01:07:59 Exploring New Writing Ventures01:10:29 Culinary Adventures in Peru01:16:50 The Evolution of Surf Writing01:24:28 Future of Surf Journalism01:32:36 Final Thoughts and ReflectionsBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/swell-season--3483504/support.

In this episode of the Swell Season Surf Podcast, we talk with Ty Haft, a director, cinematographer, and photographer who transitioned from Hermosa Beach, California to New York. His work is layered with outdoors lifestyle, documentary adventures as well as contemporary fashion. For Ty, the ocean serves as the preferred muse offering unique contrasts between humans and nature.We discuss Haft's experiences within New York's surf community, his work on various projects, and the differences between East and West Coast surfing cultures. Haft shares his background in surf cinematography and the unique challenges of shooting surf films. He’s recently started a new instagram page called 77 surf Club. It’s a space for him to document the local surfers in NYC and capture all the characters that make up our lineup.   We dive into  a wide range of topics from the impact of social media and AI on filmmaking, the unpredictability of surfing conditions in NYC, the importance of patience, and the influence of social media in depicting surf culture. We're stoked to have Ty as a guest on this episode of the Swell Season Surf Podcast. To follow Ty Haft, you can check out his instagram pages: @tyhaft & @77surfclubThe Swell Season Surf Podcast is recorded by The NewsStand Studio at Rockefeller Center in the heart of Manhattan and is distributed by The Swell Season Surf Radio Network.  For more information, you can follow @swellseasonsurfradio on Instagramor go to our website: www.swellseasonsurf.com Music: Song: Young urbanArtist: Ambulance LTDAlbum: Ambulance LTD EPRiding Waves Coast-to-Coast: A Deep Dive with Tyler HaftIn this engaging episode of the Swell Season Surf Podcast, host Tyler Brewer sits down with Tyler Haft, an accomplished director, cinematographer, and photographer originally from Hermosa Beach, California, now based in New York City. Haft discusses his transition from capturing surf films in California to documenting the local surf scene in New York through his Instagram page, 77 Surf Club. They explore the contrasting surf cultures of the East and West Coasts, the influence of social media on surfing, and Haft's future ambitions in cinematography. Haft also shares valuable insights into managing the unpredictable nature of surfing conditions, emphasizing the importance of embracing both the highs and lows. Recorded at the Newsstand Studio in Rockefeller Center, the conversation is a heartfelt revelation of Haft's experiences and his impact on the surfing community.00:00 Introduction to Swell Season Surf Podcast01:16 Meet Tyler Haft: Director, Cinematographer, and Photographer01:52 The Art of Surf Photography02:59 Challenges of Self-Promotion in Surfing05:42 Navigating the Content-Driven World09:00 Journey into Professional Surf Filmmaking18:03 The Birth of 77 Surf Club22:24 East Coast vs. West Coast Surfing32:28 Growing Up in Hermosa Beach37:34 Navigating New York's Creative Scene38:02 Social Dynamics and Networking39:30 Supportive Family and Creative Roots40:41 Challenges in Surf Cinematography43:41 Inspiration and Cinematic Style48:33 Future Aspirations in Filmmaking52:29 Adapting to Industry Changes56:12 Balancing Surfing and Career01:01:46 Shooting in Challenging Conditions01:06:27 Reflections on New York and Surfing01:08:52 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/swell-season--3483504/support.

Rachel Lord bought her first surfboard at age 29. It was a $200 used Fineline. She took it straight to El Porto, and proceeded to put in her time and take her licks. She was told over and over that you can’t get good after your teens. She didn’t know if she would ever be a competent surfer. Let alone a competitive and stand out surfer. But she was determined. Rachel Lord is a certified talent in the water. Incredibly nimble but with power when she throws herself into her turns. Style oozes from every hand gesture and fancy footwork. Rachel carries the confidence of someone born on a surfboard. She grew up in Colorado with a taste for speed. A competitive Skier in her youth, once Rachel finished highschool, she  threw herself into her art. She learned the craft of sculpting and painting at RISD (Rhode Island School of Design) where she graduated in 2008 and was convinced that her future was to be a star in the art world. After putting in a long stint in New York, she eventually made her way out west in 2011. But it wasn’t until 2015 that she felt the overwhelming sense of needing a change in her life. She was overworked, strung out, joyless, and  felt like her art work reflected that.She had been deferring her enjoyment of life in the moment, and neglecting her physical body. It was then when she discovered surfing. FAST FORWARD to year 3 of her surfing journey where she sought to merge her compartmentalized selves. Her Surfy-self and her Artsy-self. That’s when surfboard shaping entered the picture and she realized she could fold all of her passions into itself. She had been seeking a way to join her art career and artistic practices with her surfing so that she could bring all of her passions into one. Surfboards are sculptural objects, they’re painted objects, and they are a physical tool. When she started making boards it was this beautiful chemical marriage.We really stoked to have as our guest on this episode of the Swell Season Surf Podcast, Rachel Lord.To follow Rachel Lord, you can check out her instagram @lordbords or her artwork @rlord_rawHer website is www.lordbords.comThe Swell Season Surf Podcast is recorded by The NewsStand Studio at Rockefeller Center in the heart of Manhattan and is distributed by The Swell Season Surf Radio Network.  For more information, you can follow @swellseasonsurfradio on Instagramor go to our website: www.swellseasonsurf.com Music: Song: Keep the Customer SatisfiedArtist: Simon and GarfunkelAlbum: Bridge Over Troubled WaterBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/swell-season--3483504/support.

Since launching its first SuperOcean dive watch back in 1957, Breitling has cultivated a special connection with the surf community, one based on a sense of adventure and a shared love of the sea. Many of you would have noticed surfing legends such as Kelly Slater, Steph Gilmore, Sally Fitzgibbons sporting their watches lately in ad campaigns. So, it would only seem a natural fit that Breitling would release their newest offering, a coffee table books titles: The Breitling Book of Surfing: A ride the heart of Community. It’s a beautifully illustrated journey through modern surf culture guided by the international surfers and communities that define its inclusive and passionate nature.The book was written by legendary surf journalist and broadcaster, Ben Mondy. Mondy grew up surfing pulling into closeout barrels in Newcastle, Australia. After completing an economics degree, he swapped a Finance Bro job to become the deputy editor for Tracks Surfing magazine in Australia from 2000 to 2005. In 2006 he moved to Europe and became a partner in the action sports and adventure marketing agency All Conditions Media. Since leaving the agency, he has continued to write for the world’s biggest surf print and online publications including The Surfers Journal, the WSL, Tracks, Surfline, and has provided content for numerous outlets such as Red Bull, Billabong Rip Curl and many more…When he’s not writing for his Substack, “The Surf Bugle”, You can find Ben commentating on the major surfing events for the WSL. Plus, he helmed the BBC’s TV coverage of surfing’s debut at the Tokyo Olympic Games. Ben is an extremely well respected figure in the surf world and we're really stoked to have him on the show as our guest for this episode of the Swell Season Surf Podcast.To get a copy of The Breitling Book of Surfing you can go to: https://www.breitling.com/us-en/campa...To follow Ben Mondy, you can check out his instagram @BenMondy or his Substack, https://surfbugle.substack.comThe Swell Season Surf Podcast is recorded by The NewsStand Studio at Rockefeller Center in the heart of Manhattan and is distributed by The Swell Season Surf Radio Network.  For more information, you can follow @swellseasonsurfradio on Instagramor go to our website: www.swellseasonsurf.com Music: Song: Poverty of LoveArtist: Rik L RikAlbum: ResurrectionBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/swell-season--3483504/support.