A Surfer's Guide to Enlightenment with Alastair Thompson

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.

On this episode of the Swell Season Surf Podcast, we do a deep dive with legendary surfer and surf historian Sam George. Known as one of the most traveled surfers in history and former executive editor of Surfer Magazine, Sam shares his incredible insights and stories from a lifetime dedicated to surfing. We discuss Sam's latest book, 'Child of Storms,' his influence on surf culture, his relationships with icons like Tom Curren and Laird Hamilton, and the enduring mystique of surfing. This is a rich conversation that covers the evolution of surfboards, the joys of diverse surf cultures, and the challenges and rewards of living a surfing life. Don't miss this engaging episode filled with history and legendary tales from the world of surfing.To Find out more about Child of Storms, A Surfing Memoir , you can find it here: https://www.diangelopublications.com/shop/p/child-of-storms You can Follow Sam George on Instagram at: @samgeorgesurfThe 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: Pablo CruiseSong: Zero to Sixty in FiveAlbum: 20th Century Masters - The Millennium Collection: Best of Pablo Cruise00:00 Introduction to the Swell Season Surf Podcast02:09 Meet the Legendary Sam George03:03 Sam George's Surfing Adventures04:14 The Surfing Lifestyle and Culture07:28 Surfing's Impact on Personal Lives10:46 The Evolution of Surf Culture16:16 Hollywood's Take on Surfing21:02 Sam George's Memoir and Personal Reflections45:54 The Cannes Connection46:27 Surfing in Cinema47:01 Interview with Steven Spielberg49:19 The Mythology of Surfing54:29 Surfing with Naked Villagers58:30 Balancing Surfing and Relationships01:11:14 Brotherly Bonds and Surfing01:17:07 Matt's Navy SEAL Ambition01:21:11 Tom Curran: A Surfing Legend01:26:54 Reflecting on a Surfing Legend01:28:31 Memorable Surfing Stories01:29:24 The Evolution of Surfboards01:34:32 Travel Adventures and Advertorials01:40:55 Staying Positive in Surfing01:55:57 The Future of Surfing02:00:43 Conclusion 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 meet Alistair Thompson, the author of 'A Surfer's Guide to Enlightenment’, a beautiful and reflective book that blends surfing, spirituality, and self-discovery. It’s part memoir, part philosophy, and full of lessons drawn straight from the ocean. Alistair shares his journey from a life of 'monotonous discomfort' to one enriched by surfing, discussing themes of fear, ego, love, forgiveness, and faith. In his book, he explores everything from fear and ego to love, forgiveness, and faith—all through the lens of the sea. Whether you’re a surfer or not, this conversation is about what it means to start, to fall, to get back up, and to find your wave—whatever that might be. It’s an ode to those seeking self-discovery and meaning in their lives. We hope you enjoy… To Find out more about A Surfer’s Guide to Enlightenment, you can find it here: www.surfersguide.alastairthompson.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: Rufus WainwrightSong: Across The UniverseAlbum: I am Sam Soundtrack00:00 Introduction to the Swell Season Surf Podcast01:21 Meet Alistair Thompson: Author and Surfer02:44 Exploring Enlightenment Through Surfing04:23 The Journey to Self-Discovery10:32 From Monotonous Life to Surfing Adventure15:47 Radical Lifestyle Change and Surfing19:29 Surfing as a Mirror to Life26:18 The Impact of Surfing on Relationships32:12 Lessons from the Ocean33:26 Reflecting on Life Before and After Surfing34:30 The Turning Point: Choosing Surfing35:59 Life Changes and New Adventures38:39 Finding Your Passion and Enlightenment41:24 The Journey of Writing a Book50:01 Lessons from Surfing and Writing56:52 Community and Identity in Surfing59:12 Reception and Future Plans01:02:43 Where to Find the Book 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 do a deep dive with journalist and podcaster Matt Barr to explore the implications of Patagonia founder Yvonne Chouinard's groundbreaking decision to transfer ownership of the company to entities that prioritize the environment. Matt discusses his three-part podcast documentary series 'The Announcement,' which provides a comprehensive investigation into this transformative corporate model. The conversation tackles whether capitalism can truly be a force for good, the scrutiny faced by Patagonia, and the broader implications for the future of capitalism and sustainability. Tune in to gain valuable insights from Matt Barr's journey, learn about the challenges and benefits of the B Corp status, and understand the critical questions we need to ask about corporate responsibility and environmental stewardship.To Find out more about the Looking Sideways Podcast, go do yourself a favor and check out his substack: https://www.wearelookingsideways.com/To follow Matt Barr  on Instagram go to @welooksidewaysThe 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 SmithsSong: Oscillate WildlyAlbum: Louder Than Bombs00:00 Introduction to the Swell Season Surf Podcast01:36 Patagonia's Revolutionary Corporate Model02:27 Matt Barr's Investigative Podcast Series03:23 Interview with Matt Barr Begins03:49 Philanthropy and Corporate Responsibility09:16 The B Corp Certification Debate15:19 Patagonia's Unique Ownership Structure29:37 Employee Ownership vs. Traditional Models41:57 Discussing Taxing the Rich and Patagonia's Stance43:17 The Complexity of Yvon Chouinard's Image45:26 Activism and the Need for Stronger Actions46:39 Debating Wealth Tax and Public Perception49:04 Patagonia's Environmental Messaging and Accountability51:47 Evaluating Patagonia's Long-Term Impact01:00:26 Exploring New Economic Models01:18:47 The Role of Leadership in Social Movements01:21:36 Discussing Immigration Challenges01:22:18 Plans for Future Travels01:23:51 The Journey of Creating a Documentary01:26:09 Family Influence and Support01:28:01 Collaborating with Friends and Experts01:31:34 Refining the Project01:38:32 Exploring New Documentary Ideas01:44:14 Feedback and Future Plans01:48:30 Shameless Plug and Final ThoughtsBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/swell-season-surf-radio--3483504/support.

On this episode of Swell Season Surf Podcast, we go dumpster diving through history and dig up memories of the vibrant New York surf community of the early 2000s with special guest Will Hallett. We reminisce about the iconic message boards of NYNJsurf.com and NewYorkSurf.com that unified surfers of the region, sharing stories, debating issues, and coordinating surf sessions. Will Hallett, the owner of NYNJsurf.com, shares his experiences as an OG New York surfer, his impressive collection of surfboards, and his journey into public speaking. We discuss the impact of social media on surf communities, memorable threads from the forums, and the evolution of the local surf community. This episode is filled with nostalgic moments, community bonding, and a treasure trove of surf history that newer surfers will find enlightening and horrifying. We hope you enjoy this stroll down memory lane. To follow Will Hallet on Instagram go to @nynjsurfThe 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: Bruce SpringsteinSong: BackstreetsAlbum: Born to Run00:00 Introduction to the Swell Season Surf Podcast01:10 The Vibrant New York Surf Community02:31 Guest Introduction: Will Hallett03:36 Reminiscing About Surfing in Rockaway04:50 The Evolution of NYNJ Surf.com05:05 The End of an Era: Closing NYNJ Surf.com08:42 The Origins of Lincoln Locals12:35 Will Hallett's Surfing Journey24:10 The Surfing Community in Rockaway29:46 The Transition to Long Beach31:44 The Birth of NYNJ Surf.com37:35 The Impact of Social Media on Surf Forums39:16 Flea Fests and Community Events42:14 Cabana Boys and Internet Friends42:58 Surfing with Tim Hill43:52 Surfing in Extreme Cold45:40 Memorable Forum Threads45:55 The Joyce Thread Saga48:43 Surf Community and Events58:52 Public Speaking and Surfing01:07:36 Surfboard Collection01:12:41 Surfing with Family01:21:37 Concluding Thoughts and FarewellsBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/swell-season-surf-radio--3483504/support.

In this episode of Swell Season Surf Radio’s Art and Design series, hosts Chris Labzda and Chris Coffin  welcome special guest, Em Joseph, a former student of Chris Coffin and now a distinguished artist and educator. The episode dives into Em’s journey from student to accomplished artist, her impactful projects like the ‘Cedar Exodus’ at the New Museum, and the profound influence of surfing on her life and creative practice.She discusses her roots, passion for surfing, and how she balances her life in New York between teaching and surfing. She shares her insights into teaching philosophy at Parsons, her involvement in the Surfers in Solidarity group, and an intriguing film project combining surfing and vampire lore. Tune in for an inspiring conversation that intertwines the passion for surfing with art, activism, and personal growth.For more information on Em Joseph’s artwork go to: https://www.emjoseph.com/Or follow her on Instagram at @em_josephThe 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:Eddie VederSong: SocietyAlbum: Into The Wild Soundtrack00:00 Welcome Back to Swell Season Surf Radio01:38 Reconnecting with a Former Student04:28 The Journey to Surfing and Personal Growth11:41 The New Museum Exhibition and Lebanese Cedar Project27:49 Teaching Sustainable Systems at Parsons44:40 Spirituality and Surfing45:49 Surfers in Solidarity50:21 Filmmaking and Surfing58:52 Vampires and Surfing01:06:15 The Healing Power of Surfing01:19:04 Rapid Fire Questions01:23:45 Upcoming Projects and ConclusionBecome 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 sits down with Australian gender equality advocate and professional surfer Lucy Small, along with UK filmmaker Maddie Meddings, to discuss their latest powerful film 'Ceibo'. We delve into the intimate journey of women shaping the future of Ecuador's lands and waters, following surfer activist Pacha Light. Discover the process of creating a multi-layered narrative that merges women's rights, environmental activism, and surfing, all set against the backdrop of Ecuador's diverse landscapes. The conversation covers the film's development, the challenges faced, and the inspiring stories of the individuals involved. Don't miss this engaging discussion about culture, heritage, and the fight to protect nature. Follow the film and stay updated with premieres and screenings near you!For more information on where to watch Ceibo go to: https://www.ceibofilm.com Or follow on Instagram at @ceibosurffilmThe 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: Ana TijouxSong: AntipatriarcaAlbum: Antipatriarca - Single00:00 Introduction to the Swell Season Surf Podcast01:48 Introducing Lucy Small and Maddie Mattings02:15 Discussing the Film 'Ceibo'04:26 The Making of 'Ceibo'06:52 Exploring Ecuador's Environmental and Social Issues09:04 Personal Reflections and Experiences in Ecuador12:15 Challenges and Surprises in Ecuador19:43 Cultural and Family Connections45:29 Political Climate and Safety in Ecuador50:49 Ecuadorian Cuisine and Final Thoughts53:18 The Snazzy Suit and Sunburn Woes55:31 Filming in the Galapagos57:10 Surfing Adventures and Challenges59:53 Directing Surfing Footage01:03:16 The Evolution of Surf Films01:13:02 Funding and Sponsorship Challenges01:18:48 Cultural Identity and Indigenous Wisdom01:29:40 Female Surfing in Ecuador01:35:28 Touring and Future ProjectsBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/swell-season-surf-radio--3483504/support.

On this episode of Swell Season Surf Radio's Art and Design series with Chris and Chris. They sit down with artist Kris Chatterson, who is a returning guest. , Chatterson reflects on his transition from the surf scene in Rhode Island to his current life in New Jersey. He discusses the profound changes and creative shifts he's experienced, including his recent immersion into the punk rock music scene with his family band, The Dot Tones. The conversation delves into his artistic evolution, the influence of punk rock on his latest artworks, and his strategic use of social media. Kris Chatterson shares insights on balancing family life with artistic ambition and offers a glimpse into his collaborative project, Chromatic Twins. This episode captures the exciting new chapter of Chatterson’s artistic journey and the dynamic interplay between his passions for music, art, and surfing.For more information go to https://www.kchatterson.com/about Or follow on Instagram at @Kris_chattersonThe 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: Johnny Kid & The PiratesSong: Shakin’ All OverAlbum: The Complete Johnny Kidd & the Pirates Vols. 1 & 200:00 Introduction to the Three Chrises03:01 Chris Chatterton's Art Exhibition05:07 Reflecting on Rhode Island05:51 Moving Back to New York Area11:28 Starting a Surf Business19:00 Transition from Surfing to Art30:06 Pandemic Reflections and Relocation40:50 The Dot Tones: Family Band52:02 Abstract Punk Rock Postcards52:19 Studio Work and Punk Rock Ephemera54:54 Artistic Evolution and Identity01:01:22 Balancing Family and Art01:02:21 Social Media Strategy for Artists01:17:06 Collaborative Art and Music Projects01:21:01 Rapid Fire Questions01:27:03 Final Thoughts and ReflectionsBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/swell-season-surf-radio--3483504/support.

On the latest episode of the Swell Season Surf Podcast, we  welcomed back to the show, the legendary surfboard shaper Charles Mencel, who is joined by his wife Rebecca. The Mencels, who hail from Monmouth County, NJ, share their deep-rooted connection to the ocean and their community. They discuss the intricate balance of maintaining their passions for surfing and shaping, while raising five daughters and managing their surfboard brand. Charles reveals the magic behind his sought-after surfboards and recounts his experience riding one of New Jersey's greatest waves. Additionally, they delve into the creation of their new surfboard glassing house, Garden Glassing. Get an inside look at how the Mencels navigate life's challenges and triumphs, driven by their shared love for the ocean.For more information on where to order a Mencel, go to https://www.mencelsurfboards.com/ Or follow on Instagram at @mencel_surfboards or follow their new glasshouse @gardenglassingThe 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: Opening Song:Artist: Dire StraitsSong: Romeo & JulietAlbum: Making Movies00:00 Introduction to the Special Episode02:01 Meet Charles and Rebecca Menzel05:13 Balancing Passion and Family08:37 The Love Story Begins10:07 First Date Adventures14:57 Family Values and Intentional Living28:04 Surfing and Ocean Culture31:03 A Serendipitous Reunion31:27 Lifeguard Competitions and Friendships32:37 Thanksgiving Soccer Tradition33:46 Polish Immigrant Parents and Surfing35:03 Family and Surfing Lifestyle36:04 Building Community and Friendships38:51 Navigating the Surf Industry43:04 Challenges and Rewards of Surfing44:14 Preparing for Big Swells49:08 The New Jersey Surf Scene51:51 Wave of the Winter01:05:43 Starting Garden Glassing01:09:25 Navigating Partnership Agreements01:09:31 The Evolution of Our Logo01:10:21 The Garden Concept01:10:44 Authentic Voice in Surfboard Manufacturing01:11:41 Consumer Choices and Surfboard Options01:12:57 The Importance of Community and Local Surf Culture01:13:45 Mental Health and Surfing01:16:03 Customizing Surfboards for Different Conditions01:21:39 The Art of Communication in Surfboard Shaping01:24:11 Live Surfboard Assessment01:31:38 Future Vision for Glass House Mencel Boards01:37:44 Where to Find Us and Final ThoughtsBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/swell-season-surf-radio--3483504/support.