156 Tricks with Ozzy Wright

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.

On this episode of the Swell Season Surf Podcast, host Tyler Breuer discusses 'The Inevitable Return,' a short documentary film with filmmaker Zachary Zezima and Kumeyaay surfer Shuuluk Leo-Retz. The film explores the entanglement of military technology, atomic testing, and contemporary surfing on the militarized beaches of San Diego. Our conversation highlights Shuuluk’s journey in reclaiming surfing as a practice of joy and connection on his indigenous land. We preview the 'Shredding: A New Lens in Surf Filmmaking' program, which challenges outdated stereotypes in surf culture and showcases diverse voices from around the world.To Learn more about Shredding: A New Lens in Surf filmmaker go check out:https://digitalgym.org/movies/shredding-a-new-lens-in-surf-filmmaking/ To follow the film on Instagram go to: @the_inevitable_return.movieThe 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: Ambulance LTDSong: Young UrbanAlbum: Ambulance LTD00:00 Introduction to Swell Season Surf Podcast02:25 Highlighting 'Inevitable Return' Documentary02:58 Shredding: A New Lens in Surf Filmmaking03:51 Welcoming Zachary Zema and Shalu Ette04:52 Discussing the Film's Intent and Background08:02 Shalu's Surfing Journey and Cultural Connection10:19 Walter Monk's Influence and Controversial Quote17:31 Redemption and Reflection in Surf Culture23:48 Growing Up Surfing and Cultural Heritage30:19 Discussing Mom's Background and Influence31:40 Connection to Hawaiian Culture32:51 Indigenous Cultures and Surfing35:17 Military Influence on Surfing36:24 Bikini Atoll and Nuclear Testing39:51 Surfing and Colonialism45:27 Surf Film Festival and Its Message49:09 Upcoming Screenings and Final ThoughtsBecome 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 sit down with Rabbi Chel Mendell, a queer gender expansive Jew from the San Francisco Bay Area. Rabbi Chel, (they/them) is the founder and creative director of the Tzimtzum community, located on the unceded territory of the Awaswas-speaking Uypi Tribe. Chel is dedicated to reimagining Jewish community through creative ritual and envisioning how Judaism can evolve for the future. They are a curator of alternative Jewish community spaces. They received smicha from the Academy for Jewish Religion CA and an interdisciplinary MFA from Sierra Nevada University. They can be found at the ocean’s edge checking the surf or making pottery in their free time. We discuss their journey in reimagining the Jewish community landscape through creative Jewish practices and delve into the intersection of religion, spirituality, and surfing, which is particularly explored in their film 'On the Water I Disappear,' which will be featured at the 'Shredding: A New Lens in Surf Filmmaking' festival. Our conversation covers their rabbinic thesis on water, surfing, and God, the challenges and joys of being a queer, trans rabbi, and the importance of inclusivity and social justice in their work. Tune in for an insightful discussion blending faith, activism, and the ocean.To Learn more about Shredding: A New Lens in Surf filmmaker go check out:https://digitalgym.org/movies/shredding-a-new-lens-in-surf-filmmaking/ To Learn more about Rabbi Chel’s TzimTzum Collective, you can go check out: https://www.tzimtzumcommunity.com/ To follow Rabbi Chel on Instagram go to: @notnotyourrabbi 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: Silver JewsSong: The Wild KindnessAlbum: American Water00:00 Introduction to the Swell Season Surf Podcast01:14 Meet Rabbi Chel Mendell01:58 On the Water I Disappear: A Film Overview03:59 Exploring Surfing and Spirituality06:36 The Intersection of Surfing and Shabbat13:20 Chel's Journey: From Skateboarding to Surfing18:56 Researching the Thesis on Surfing and Judaism24:20 Creating Inclusive Jewish Spaces9:37 The Jedi Program and Social Justice44:41 The Role and Responsibilities of a Rabbi45:41 Teaching and Leading in the Jewish Community46:54 Personal Reflections and Community Engagement48:11 The Impact of October 7th and Jewish-Palestinian Relations56:20 Navigating Complex Conversations and Activism01:01:50 The Journey to Anti-Zionism01:13:27 Building Inclusive Jewish Communities01:16:03 Surfing, Filmmaking, and Community Building01:18:50 Final Thoughts and FarewellBecome 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 delve into pressing environmental issues with Dr. Chad Nelson, CEO of the Surfrider Foundation. We explore the impacts of Donald Trump's administration on environmental protections and the urgent challenges faced by organizations like Surfrider. Dr. Nelson, who has been an ocean advocate for over 25 years, discusses the rollback of policies that safeguard our oceans, beaches, and climate, and what individuals can do to counter these changes. The conversation also covers recent legal battles, local and national victories in environmental conservation, and the importance of civic engagement in protecting our coastlines. Tune in to learn how everyday people, surfers, and beachgoers can make a difference.To learn more about how you can support the Surfrider Foundation go to www.surfrider.org and become a member. You can follow Surfrider on Instagram @surfrider or @surfridernyc or @surfridermidatlanticThe 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: Tom Curren’s Ocean Surf AcesSong: Sand GropersAlbum: Ocean Surf Aces00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome01:12 Impact of Trump Administration on Environmental Policies01:55 Challenges Faced by Surf Rider Foundation02:42 Political Climate and Government Dynamics05:28 Supreme Court Rulings and Legal Implications08:37 Civic Participation and Voter Accountability10:28 Misinformation and Advocacy Strategies16:55 Offshore Drilling and Environmental Battles27:00 Local Wins and Grassroots Movements36:05 The Evolution of Weather Forecasting36:46 The Importance of NOAA and Coastal Management39:33 The Role of the EPA and Environmental Protection40:41 FEMA and Disaster Relief43:50 Political Divisiveness and Public Lands46:50 Civic Engagement and Surf Rider's Mission55:43 Challenges in Environmental Lawsuits59:16 The Surf Community's Role in Environmental Activism01:03:12 Innovative Ideas for Surf Rider01:06:01 The Value of Community in Surfing01:08:40 Conclusion and Call to ActionBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/swell-season-surf-radio--3483504/support.

In late May, Costa Rican police arrived in central Pavones at 4 a.m.—dressed in body armor, rifles in hand, and gas masks on—to escort demolition crews. Their mission: tear down local businesses. Residents, caught off guard, had to scramble just to salvage food and goods from inside the buildings. Shockingly, the local government of Golfito appears to be backing developers and demolition teams over the very citizens they were elected to serve.At the heart of the issue is a controversial slate of proposed luxury real estate developments. These projects threaten to reshape Pavones—impacting the environment, limiting beach access, and displacing local, family-run businesses.On this episode of the Swell Season Surf Podcast, we are joined by Walter Brenes, a dedicated environmental lawyer standing alongside the local community against aggressive real estate developments. Walter shares the ongoing battle to protect Pavones' unique culture, environment, and heritage from gentrification and unlawful land concessions. We discover the historical context, current challenges, and the legal fight to save one of the world's most treasured surf breaks. This conversation explores the broader implications of unchecked development and the erosion of local communities worldwide. Tune in to learn how you can support Pavones and join the resistance. Don't miss this critical discussion on preserving the soul of Pavones.To learn more about how you can support the community of Pavones here are a list of resources: https://www.gofundme.com/f/save-pavones-costa-rica-protect-our-communityhttps://www.savethewaves.org/endangered-waves-past-site-pavones-costa-rica/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: MalpaisSong: MalpaisAlbum: Uno00:00 Introduction to the Swell Season Surf Podcast01:53 The Controversial Real Estate Developments in Pavona03:21 Interview with Walter Breez: Defending Costa Rican Communities04:28 The Impact of Gentrification in Costa Rica04:53 The Surge of Foreign Investments Post-COVID09:52 The Cultural and Environmental Significance of Pavona22:53 The Role of Local Government and Corruption27:09 The Fight Against Unchecked Development41:14 Costa Rica's Environmental Wealth42:03 Surf Culture and Respect43:06 Impact of Surf Retreats46:26 Fighting for Local Communities48:16 Challenges of Tourism and Development51:13 Legal Battles and Community Support55:44 Cultural Preservation and Resistance58:06 The Role of Influencers and Expats01:01:39 Privatization and Local Resistance01:04:19 Personal Sacrifices and Community Defense01:05:45 Call to Action and SupportBecome 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 story’ with Chris Gentile, the proprietor of Pilgrim Surf + Supply in Williamsburg, Brooklyn. We dive into Chris' diverse background in woodworking, photography, art, and fashion. We also cover Pilgrim Surf + Supply's upcoming Shapers Residency program featuring renowned shapers like Malcolm Campbell, Christian Beamish, and Rachel Lord. Chris opens up about the cultural and communal aspects of surfing, his approach to shaping boards, and the journey of founding one of the most influential surf shops in New York. We explore some of the highlights and evolution of Pilgrim Surf + Supply, the challenges and rewards of running a surf shop, and the importance of creating valuable and long-lasting products. There are a lot of hilarious anecdotes from years past and looking toward the future. If you surf in NY, this is requisite listening… Enjoy. Go Check out Pilgrims latest and greatest at: https://pilgrimsurfsupply.com/ You can Follow them on Instagram at @pilgrimsurfsupplyThe 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: Minute MenSong: Shit From an Old NotebookAlbum: Double Nickels on the Dime00:00 Introduction and Guest Overview02:41 Chris Genteel's Surf Etiquette04:57 Pilgrim Surf's Shaping Residency Program09:38 The Art and Culture of Surfboard Shaping29:56 Challenges and Rewards of Running a Surf Shop37:06 Wearing Military-Inspired Fashion37:56 The Relevance of Outdoor Gear in Urban Life40:27 The Importance of Good Employees46:20 Management Style and Employee Relations50:23 Working with Family in Business55:24 Unexpected Success in Japan01:04:55 The Evolution of Pilgrim01:08:30 Surf Shop Beginnings: Challenges and Surprises01:08:58 The Birth of a Surf Community 01:09:53 The Creative Journey: From Art to Surfboards01:10:51 The Vibrant Williamsburg Art Scene01:11:40 The Need for a Core Surf Shop in NYC01:13:49 Opening the Shop: Community and Collaborations01:16:44 Memorable Events and Unexpected Visitors01:24:42 Shaping Surfboards: An Artistic Perspective01:29:37 Exciting New Projects and Future Plans01:33:39 Final Thoughts and FarewellBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/swell-season-surf-radio--3483504/support.