Swell Season Surf Radio

"The day I decided to quit surfing… it just popped in my head like, 'Huh, nobody just quits surfing. Like if I did, what would happen? Who would I be?'"On this episode of the Swell Season Surf Podcast, we ponder the question of ‘who would we be without surfing’ with our guest for this episode. Jason Borte is one of the true pillars of East Coast surfing — a competitor, storyteller, teacher, and lifelong ambassador of the stoke.  Hailing from Virginia Beach, Jason's journey began with a humbling first session in 1982 and took him all the way to ESA All-Star and ASP East Pro Champion. A Master's-level educator, surf school founder, Hall of Famer, and author of multiple books including Pipe Dreams, Virginia Is for Surfers, and his upcoming memoir How Surfing Ruined My Life, Jason now serves as Director of Surf Coaching at Atlantic Park — home to North America's first Wavegarden Cove surf lagoon — where he continues shaping the future of the sport through coaching, community programs, and youth initiatives.We dig into his transition from 15 years in the classroom to the surf world, new competitive formats at Atlantic Park like the man-on-man "Chlorine Clash," and inclusive youth programs bringing swimming and surfing to underserved kids through partnerships with Pharrell and Adidas. Plus, Jason shares the story behind his books and what led him to step away from the ocean for an entire year.Follow Jason on Instagram @jborte & @howsurfingruinedmylifeAnd you can order his books here: Diangelo PublicationsThe 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 Huge Shoutout to Trey Highton for the connection!Music: Artist: The Mountain GoatsSong: This YearAlbum: The Sunset Tree00:00 Guest Introduction04:05 Kelly Slater Mixup05:34 Leaving Teaching Behind06:36 Maker Space Class12:28 Surf Projects Surprise13:49 Surf Camp Curriculum17:07 Atlantic Park Origins18:13 Typhoon Lagoon Break22:16 First Wave Moment24:59 Director Role Daily26:49 Tom Curren Visit31:27 Wave Pool Impacts36:03 New Contest Formats42:10 Community Access Programs45:42 Wave Pools With Purpose46:28 Ebony Beach Club Groms48:03 Mentorship In The Lineup49:08 First Surf In 198251:29 Virginia Beach Pecking Order54:39 Early Contests And Drive58:06 Parents Backing The Dream01:00:52 Facing Kelly And Going Pro01:03:23 OP Sponsorship And Rivalries01:05:26 Bud Tour No Priority Chaos01:12:26 Wes Laine East Coast Icon01:16:59 From Pro To Surf Writer01:21:33 Learning Under Steve Hawk01:25:55 Writing Pipe Dreams01:29:56 Research And Kelly Access01:34:28 Slater Self Awareness01:35:34 Rivalry And Book Sequel01:37:33 Kelly Reviews The Manuscript01:39:35 Press Tour And Career Choices01:43:04 Self Publishing Kooks Guide01:45:36 Virginia Is For Surfers01:51:04 What The Community Revealed01:57:05 Quitting Surfing For A Year02:03:33 Withdrawal Compulsion And Perspective02:08:40 Book Deal And Wrap UpBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/swell-season-surf-radio--3483504/support.

On this episode of the Swell Season Surf Podcast, we welcome board industry vet, Jamie Meiselman to the show! We  trace his journey from cold-water surfing in Westfield, New Jersey and the DIY dawn of Northeast snowboarding to a lifetime of innovation across board sports. Jamie reflects on his early roots in skate, surf and competitive snowboarding, pioneering boot technology with Burton and Airwalk, and his years shaping the voice of the industry as Managing Editor of Transworld Snowboarding during its explosive growth in the early 90s. After earning an MBA at Columbia, he pursued an ambitious surf-focused wave pool project that ultimately collapsed, shaping his philosophy on risk, resilience, and iteration. In 2017, Jamie returned to his core passion and founded Solite, introducing the first heat-moldable surf bootie and building a lean, performance-driven brand now respected worldwide. This conversation explores obsession, reinvention, craftsmanship, wave pool evolution, and the mindset behind creating products that truly improve function — closing with reflections on shaping, favorite boards, and the perfect eternity wave.Follow Jamie’s company Solite Boots on Instagram @solitebootsand you can check out the latest selection at https://soliteboots.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: Sure SureSong: This Must be the PlaceAlbum: Sure Sure00:00 Welcome to the Swell Season Surf Podcast + Jamie Meiselman’s Wild Resume04:18 Risk, Failure & the Brutal Early Wave Pool Dream (1999–2004)07:08 Franken-Boots, First Patents & Burton/K2 Innovation Stories10:47 The Obsession Advantage: How Jamie Thinks, Learns & Gets Distracted (AI Tools)13:21 Building a Lean Niche Brand: Solite’s Focus, Marketing & Why Performance Wins19:02 Growing Up in NJ: Skateparks, Hamptons Summers & Learning to Surf23:32 Early Snowboarding DIY Era: Woodshop Boards, Ski-Shop Roots & Tinkering Mindset28:07 Solite Origin Story: From Seamless EVA Surf Gloves to Heat-Moldable Boots32:42 Staying Small on Purpose: Competitors, Core Values & Avoiding the ‘Next Nike’ Trap35:46 Founder Reality Check: Freedom vs 7-Day Weeks, Support Systems & Family Balance41:58 Less Is More: Letting Kids Learn With Guardrails42:53 Balancing Marriage, Work, and Empty-Nester Life43:42 Surf vs Snowboard: Family Interests & Learning Curves46:17 Living Inland vs Beachside: Staying Hungry for Waves49:40 Dartmouth Days: Choosing Mountains, Quitting Lacrosse for Snowboarding52:03 Starting a Snowboard Club + Early Skiers vs Snowboarders Tension54:41 The ‘Urinal Meeting’ That Launched a Transworld Writing Career57:09 Why Surfing Stays #1 (and Chasing Feel Over Progression)01:00:06 From Shaping Curiosity to DIY Boardbuilding as a Step-by-Step Process01:05:52 Boots, Concave Decks, and Performance-Enhancing Gear Ideas01:09:17 Inside Transworld’s Boom: Ads, Trade Shows, and Snowboarding’s Explosion01:13:30 From Airwalk to Burton: Boot Wars, Culture Shock, and the Wave-Pool Seed01:19:45 From Water Parks to Surf Pools: The Wave Pool Spark01:20:27 Prototyping the Dream: Trade Shows, Engineers & Early Wave Tech01:21:42 Business School as a Launchpad: Columbia, Seed Money & Raising Capital01:24:09 The Hard Part: Rejection, Anxiety, and Getting to the First Million01:26:20 The Fatal Flaw: Adjustable Bottom Contours and Why the Pool Kept Breaking01:28:11 When It Fell Apart: Boardroom Confidence, Bad Partners & Lessons Learned01:29:43 The Randall’s Island “What If”: NYC Indoor Surfing That Never Happened01:32:18 Bouncing Back: Mindset After Failure and Building Smarter at Solight01:35:48 Solight’s Growth Playbook: DTC vs Wholesale, Dealers, and Global Distribution01:40:17 Marketing Breakthrough: Pros in Cold Water and the Slater Boots Moment01:43:19 What’s Next for Solight: New Products, Hats, and “No Me-Too Gear” Philosophy01:47:57 Surfer Questionnaire + The Perfect Eternal Wave (and Wave Pools Today)01:54:34 Closing Thoughts: The Future of Surfing, Wave Pool Communities & Sign-OffBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/swell-season-surf-radio--3483504/support.

In this episode of the Swell Season Surf Podcast, We welcome Christopher Thomas Campbell, artist, architect, and founder of St. Christopher's Surf Craft, to the show. We dive deep into Campbell's unique journey from architecture and fine art to surfboard shaping. Discover the intricacies of edge board design, the influence of New York's surfing conditions, and the evolution of modern backyard shaping. Campbell shares insights on rail engagement, fin setups, and the philosophy behind his craft, culminating in a thought-provoking discussion about whether surfboards can be considered art. Don't miss this engaging conversation about innovation, craftsmanship, and the future of St. Christopher's Surf Craft.Follow Saint Christopher Surfboards on Instagram @saint_christopher_surfcraftand you can find his artwork here: https://christopherthomascampbell.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: Fairport ConventionSong: Genesis HallAlbum: Unhallfbricking00:00 Introduction to the Swell Season Surf Podcast01:09 Meet Christopher Thomas Campbell02:24 Diving into Edge Board Design03:27 The Unique Features of Edge Boards04:49 Exploring Surfboard Design and Innovation38:05 The Influence of Skateboarding on Surfing43:45 Art and Architecture in Surfboard Shaping47:57 Introduction to the Shop Manager48:16 From Sculpture to Surfboard49:48 The Veneer Essay and Surfboard Aesthetics53:11 The Importance of Glassing and Collaboration57:42 Sustainability and Material Choices in Surfboards01:03:59 Gender and Surfboard Design01:12:28 Surfboards as Art vs. Function01:21:16 Rapid Fire Questions and ConclusionBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/swell-season-surf-radio--3483504/support.

In this episode of the Swell Season Surf Podcast, we welcome NYC big wave surfer Pete ‘Luigi’ Shaw. Raised in New York, Pete's journey from local waves to conquering some of the world's biggest breaks, like Nazaré and Teahupo'o, showcases unparalleled grit and determination. Pete shares his experiences paddling out solo, his method of managing fear, and his approach to surfing's evolving culture. We  discuss the highs, the near misses, and the relentless passion that drives Pete to chase monster waves around the globe. we’re diving into big waves, fear, resilience, community, and what drives someone to paddle out with nothing but heart and a helmet that occasionally slips over his eyes. Follow Pete on Instagram @saltypetv and YouTube for a glimpse into his wild adventures: https://www.youtube.com/@saltypetetv 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: T.S.O.LSong: It’s Too LateAlbum: Hit & Run00:00 Introduction to the Swell Season Surf Podcast01:38 Meet Pete Shaw: The Gritty New York Surfer03:26 Big Wave Adventures and Solo Surfing06:43 Early Surfing Days and Inspirations12:04 Pioneering Big Wave Surfing in New York22:51 The Journey to Surfing Jaws and YMA32:52 First Encounters with Nazaré38:12 Navigating the Lineup39:04 Catching the Monster Wave41:32 Challenges of Big Wave Surfing42:24 Breaking into the Big Wave Community45:06 Paddle Surfing vs. Tow Surfing48:20 Building a Team and Trust59:41 Managing Fear in Big Waves01:07:07 Surfing in New York and Family Ties01:13:20 The Evolution of Big Wave SurfingBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/swell-season-surf-radio--3483504/support.

In this episode of the Swell Season Surf Podcast, we dive into the controversial revival of the Williams LNG pipeline project off the coast of New York and New Jersey. Joined by Matt Gove from the Surfrider Foundation, we explore the environmental, health, and community impacts of the pipeline, and discuss why it's critical to oppose this project. The conversation also highlights the broader context of climate change and energy politics, the role of data centers, and the importance of renewable energy sources like offshore wind farms. Learn how you can get involved in the fight against the pipeline and make a difference for our coastal communities. Listen here… Get involved. Go to https://nyc.surfrider.org/stop-the-williams-pipeline to learn more.Become a member of Surfrider: https://nyc.surfrider.org/volunteer 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: Pato BantonSong: One World (Not three)Album: Universal Love00:00 Introduction to the Swell Season Surf Podcast01:58 The Williams LNG Pipeline Controversy02:32 Guest Introduction: Matt Gove from Surf Rider Foundation04:05 Pipeline Concerns and Environmental Impact08:45 Safety Issues and Historical Context11:11 Political and Economic Factors24:58 Mitigation Measures and Legal Actions29:49 Bipartisan Opposition to the Pipeline30:43 Rapid Approval Process32:22 Economic and Environmental Concerns35:18 Fracking and Its Consequences38:41 Actions to Fight the Pipeline44:20 Hope in Renewable Energy49:03 Whale Safety and Wind Farms53:40 Get Involved with Surf RiderBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/swell-season-surf-radio--3483504/support.

On the latest  Swell Season Radio Art & Design Series, Design host Chris Labzda sits down with the multifaceted Australian artist, surfer, and musician, Ozzy Wright. Ozzy shares insights into his unique path, transitioning from a passionate young surfer to a versatile creative force in art and music. The conversation dives deep into his inspirations from skate culture, the influence of brands like Volcom, and his approach to creating art that resonates emotionally. Ozzy also reflects on the evolving art scene in Australia and the balancing act of creativity and family life. Ozzy is a legend of the sport and his artistic style both in and out of the water has influenced the culture throughout the 21st century. Definitely an episode not to be missed! You can find Ozzy Wright’s work here: https://ozzywrong.com/ Or follow him on instagram @ozzywrongThe 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: Ad AstraSong: Do you Like Me?Album: Consume: Psy-Harmonics, Vol. 600:00 Introduction to the Guest: Ozzy Wright02:05 From Surfing to Art: Ozzy's Journey04:00 Influences and Inspirations09:40 Balancing Art, Music, and Family19:18 Art Scene in Australia22:31 Early Art Adventures in London23:21 Exploring Textile Art24:30 Sewing as a Medium28:00 Creative Influences and Volcom29:36 The Surf and Art Connection37:26 Music and the Goons of Doom40:17 Inspiration for Young CreativesBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/swell-season-surf-radio--3483504/support.

On this  episode of the Swell Season Surf Podcast, host Tyler Breuer welcomes surfboard shaper and surf legend Neal Purchase Jr. to discuss his incredible journey through the world of surfing. From his early days screenprinting for Billabong and becoming a free surfing pro in the 90’s  to his innovative board designs with deep family roots, Neal shares stories and insights that have defined his career. Joined by  co-host and friend of the show, Paul Colbert, the conversation explores Neal’s pivotal moments in surf cinema, his unique duo fin setups, and his recent shaping residency at Pilgrim Surfing Supply in New York. The episode also touches on the evolution of surfboard preferences, balancing a surf-centric lifestyle with family responsibilities, and advice on fatherhood and surfing longevity. Don’t miss this deep dive into the spirit of surfing and the craft of shaping with one of the industry's most revered figures.You can find Neal and order some incredible shapes at his website: https://www.nealpurchasedesigns.com/Or follow him on instagram @nealpurchasejnr 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: Concrete BlondeSong: TrueAlbum: Concrete Blonde 00:00 Introduction and Special Guest Announcement01:09 Rewind to 1992: Surf Camp Memories02:25 Neil Purchase Jr.'s Surfing Legacy03:41 Welcome Neil Purchase Jr.04:01 Early Surfing Adventures and Influences05:20 The Evolution of Surf Culture06:36 Challenges and Changes in Surfing18:23 Health and Aging in Surfing21:50 Backside Tube Riding Techniques33:50 Shaping and Design Innovations44:49 Shaping Around the Fin: Techniques and Insights46:11 Exploring Twin Fins and Surfboard Design Evolution48:12 The Thrill of Surfing: Swells, Boards, and Travel48:38 Custom Surfboards: Crafting the Perfect Ride50:06 The Art of Surfboard Shaping: Techniques and Materials58:00 Surfing Culture and Community: Reflections and Changes01:05:45 Balancing Family and Surfing: Personal Insights01:17:56 Memorable Surfing Experiences and Lessons Learned01:21:04 Final Thoughts and ReflectionsBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/swell-season-surf-radio--3483504/support.

In this episode of the Swell Season Surf Podcast , we connect with an old college roommate and long-time friend, Enrique Moose Huerta. We  reminisce about our  time at Flagler College, including our surfing adventures and dorm room antics. Moose shares his journey from college surfer to creative producer and independent consultant, shedding light on his experiences with Vice Media, Nike, and starting his own consultancy, Land Sea.The episode also delves into Moose's latest project, the East Coast Special podcast, which beautifully encapsulates the charm and grit of East Coast surf culture. Moose describes the podcast as a love child of Eastern Surf Magazine and Longboard Magazine, aiming to highlight the unique stories and characters of the East Coast surf scene. Listen in for hilarious stories, reflections on how our paths have evolved over the years, and insights into Moose's creative process and inspirations.You can follow East Coast Special on Instagram @eastcoast.specialYou can listen to East Coast Special on all podcast platforms.Here is a link to get you started: East Coast SpecialThe 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: Elliot SmithSong: The Biggest LieAlbum: Elliot Smith00:00 Introduction and Guest Background03:27 Reconnecting with Moose05:00 Thoughtfulness and Upbringing09:05 Surfing Beginnings and High School Experience16:55 College Days and Roommate Stories35:50 Single Fin Hoe Down and Surf Community38:17 Reflecting on the Contest and Moving to California39:17 The Evolution of Surfing Events40:46 Influences and Inspirations in Surfing44:44 Career Beginnings and Moving West48:37 Working at Nixon and Industry Insights52:41 Transitioning Out of the Surf Industry01:06:18 Starting a Podcast and Creative Freedom01:21:49 The Saxophone Prank01:22:06 College Memories and Mishaps01:23:47 Flagler College Experience01:25:15 Mentorship and Influences01:29:57 Podcasting Journey and Reflections01:36:25 Nostalgia and Personal Stories01:43:57 Final Thoughts and FarewellsBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/swell-season-surf-radio--3483504/support.

On this episode of the Swell Season Surf Podcast, we welcome Claudia Lebenthal, a force in visual storytelling and editorial design, to discuss her illustrious career and her love for both sports and fashion. Claudia shares her journey from growing up in New York City to cultivating a deep passion for ocean sports, ultimately leading to her latest project, 'Surfer Stories.' This book pairs the world's greatest surfers with acclaimed storytellers, offering a unique and intimate glimpse into their lives. We dive into her experiences, from her first surf at San Onofre to her editorial roles at Allure and Women's Sports & Fitness, and her interactions with icons like Randy Hild and Rell Sun. We explore the human stories behind the surfers, touching on themes of perseverance, competitiveness, and the seamless blend of art, culture, and athleticism. We hope you enjoy… You can follow Claudia Lebenthal on Instagram @styleofsportYou can purchase her book here: https://www.amazon.com/Surfer-Stories-Writers-Greatest-Surfers/dp/B0D7TN788CAnd find her Style of Sport here: www.styleofsport.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: The UntouchablesSong: Free YourselfAlbum: Wild Child00:00 Introduction to Swell Season Podcast01:18 Meet Claudia Leventhal: A Visual Storyteller01:56 Claudia's Athletic Journey03:26 Growing Up in New York City04:21 Discovering a Love for Water Sports04:55 College Sports and Water Polo06:41 From Fire Island to Surfing08:07 Sneakerhead Origins10:12 The Surfing Revelation11:52 Roxy and the Surf Culture20:56 Writing 'Surfer Stories'25:58 The Human Side of Surfing43:53 The Unique Nature of Surfing45:32 Surfers' Distinct Behaviors and Traits47:14 Action Sports and Extreme Athletes47:35 Universal Themes in Surfing48:52 Diversity and Surf History49:23 Challenges in Surf Journalism50:23 The Mystique of Tom Curren55:35 Surf Photography and Iconic Figures01:10:22 The Mythology of Surfing01:13:07 Future of Surf Photography01:15:53 Turning the Book into a TV Show01:21:26 Final Thoughts and Shameless PlugsBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/swell-season-surf-radio--3483504/support.

On this episode of the Swell Season Surf Podcast, we talk  with Brooklyn-based artist and sign painter Jon Bocksel. With nearly two decades of experience, Jon's work artfully combines history, typography, and his love for hand-lettered signs. We discuss Jon's meticulous creative process, the timeless craft of hand-painted signage, the evolution of written language, and how these elements intersect with surf culture and everyday spaces. Jon shares insights into his artistic journey, his background in printmaking, and the influence of surfing and skating on his work. It’s a fascinating conversation on creativity, craft, and culture.  We hope you enjoy… You can follow Jon Bocksel on Instagram @jonbockselOr check out his work at https://jonbocksel.info/ 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: Television PersonalitiesSong: Diary of a Young ManAlbum: And Don’t the Kids Just Love it00:00 Introduction to the Swell Season Surf Podcast01:10 Meet John Boxell: The Artist Behind the Signs01:59 John's Creative Process and Inspirations02:31 The Intersection of Surfing and Art03:24 John's Artistic Journey and Influences04:49 The Challenges and Rewards of Hand Lettering09:19 From Skating to Surfing: John's Evolution12:56 The Path to Becoming a Professional Artist27:24 The Art of Sign Making32:59 Balancing Art and Life40:13 The Unpredictable Nature of Wave Pools40:58 The Art of Sign Making42:40 Glass Gilding Explained44:10 The Challenges of Gold Leaf Work45:10 Maintaining Focus in a Distracted World45:40 From Skating to Surfing46:15 The Evolution of Surfing and Sailing47:19 Creating Films and the Influence of Limitations51:53 The Philosophy of Limitations in Art and Surfing53:32 Competitive Surfing and Personal Preferences56:16 The Craft of Hand-Painted Signs57:23 The Intersection of Art and Performance01:04:06 The Future of Handcrafted Work in a Digital Age01:05:26 Shaping Surfboards and the Value of Flex01:09:24 The Joy of Riding Different Surfboards01:12:28 Exciting Residency at the Albers Foundation01:14:37 Conclusion and Contact InformationBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/swell-season-surf-radio--3483504/support.