Wormtown with Erin Meza-Ashley

In this episode of the Swell Season Surf Podcast, we welcome Erin Meza Ashley, also known as Worm to the show. Erin shares their unique journey into surfing, starting in college, and quickly mastering the art with her distinctive style on heavy single-finned longboards. Beyond surfing, Erin's life is intertwined with music, as a saxophonist in the band Go Go 13, and her passion for making desserts, especially gelato.The episode delves into her multifaceted life, touching upon her recent controversial decision to step down as head judge of the Mexi- Log Fest due to their trans policy, reflecting her dedication to social justice. Erin also talks about her love for the longboarding community, mentoring younger surfers, her experiences in the culinary world, and her enduring commitment to making the world a more welcoming place. This conversation offers a blend of surfing insights, personal anecdotes, and broader reflections on life and fairness. We hope you enjoy… To follow Worm, check out her Instagram: @wormtownThe 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: Antonio Banderas, Los LobosSong: Cancion Del MariachiAlbum: Mexico and Mariachis00:00 Introduction to Erin Meza Ashley (Worm)01:46 Erin's Unique Style and Interests03:59 Erin's Visit to NYC05:27 Progressive vs. Classical Logging07:29 Influence of 1960s Surf Culture08:44 Ethics in Surfing and Personal Values22:24 Erin's Surfing Journey28:04 Pastry Chef Adventures41:45 Judging Surf Competitions45:52 Competitive Nature in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu48:05 Musical Journey: From Clarinet to Saxophone49:44 Grandfather's Influence and Musical Legacy53:18 The Value of Music Education56:35 Surfing and Music: An Unlikely Connection01:00:48 The Resilience of Bison01:05:05 Social Activism and Personal Beliefs01:10:46 Surfing Etiquette and Community01:21:58 Final Thoughts and FarewellBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/swell-season--3483504/support.

In this episode of the Swell Season Surf Podcast, Farmata Dia & Autumn Kitchens embody what NY Surfing is today. Young, stylish, committed to their community, actively involved in giving back and making their lineup a better place for everyone. They open up about their inspiring journeys and contributions to the sport. The discussion ranges from their personal introductions to surfing and the profound impact it has had on their mental health, self-esteem, and community involvement, to addressing broader issues such as racial discrimination and systemic barriers. The conversation highlights their work with the nonprofit Laru Beya Collective, which empowers historically excluded youth through surfing, and emphasizes the therapeutic and unifying power of the ocean. We also delve into their travel adventures, cultural challenges, and aspirations, including upcoming events like the 'Totally Ghoul Surf & Costume Contest' on October 27th and the 'Surfers in Solidarity Paddle Out for a Ceasefire' event on October 20th. Farmata and Autumn offer insights into how surfing fosters resilience, personal growth, and community support, with special nods to their mentors and organizations that are making a significant impact. We hope you enjoy this episode! To Follow Farmata Dia and Autumn Kitchens on Instagram, go to @Farmy_ & @_autumnkitchensTo Get involved with Laru Beya or Donate go to www.larubeyacollective.com or following them on Instagram @larubeyasurfingThe 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: TLCSong: WaterfallsAlbum: Crazysexycool00:00 Introduction to the Swell Season Podcast01:06 Meet Farmata Dia and Autumn Kitchens01:21 Surfing and Community Engagement01:36 Autumn's Surfing Journey02:16 Formata Dia's Surfing Story02:36 Totally Ghoul Surf & Costume Contest02:53 Welcome and Casual Conversation03:11 Costume Ideas and Comic Con04:13 Surf Con and Favorite Surfers05:30 Discussing the Surfing Costume Contest09:19 Experiences with Larabea13:21 Challenges and Microaggressions in Surfing15:27 Navigating Surfing Etiquette and Anxiety20:17 Personal Growth Through Surfing21:53 Life Before and After Surfing24:57 Lessons from Surfing31:03 Designing for Ricky Beach Club34:54 Traveling and Surfing Adventures41:30 Exploring Northern Sumatra42:28 Navigating Solo Travel as a Woman43:11 A Close Call in Mexico47:09 The Power of Surfing and Community48:21 Holistic Healing and Surf Retreats52:30 Family Reactions to Surfing01:01:25 Balancing Tradition and Modernity01:08:27 Tribute to Aiden and Serafina01:15:23 Upcoming Events and Final ThoughtsBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/swell-season--3483504/support.

On this episode of the Swell Season Surf Podcast we have an incredible in-depth conversation with the legendary Mike May, a former New Jersey surfing champion and surf historian. The episode explores May's efforts in uncovering lesser-known historical narratives about early surfing in the U.S. East Coast, discussing figures such as Sam Reid, who was a protégé of Duke Kahanamoku. The discussion highlights the cultural ties between Hawaii and Atlantic City, Sam Reid’s complicated friendship with Tom Blake and their being the first to surf Malibu.We also touch on the underinvestment issues facing Atlantic City, and celebrate the resilience of local surfing icon, Dean Randazzo and his current fight with Cancer. May has also contributed to surf literature recently with his new Children’s Book, ‘Duke and Sammy and is definitely worth checking out. May addresses the importance of preserving surfing history and fostering cultural connections while continuing to share fascinating surfing stories. This is one for the Surf Nerds out there. We hope you enjoy this episode of the Swell Season Surf Podcast. To Follow Mike May on Instagram, go to @Hawaiitoac His Book ‘Duke and Sammy’ is now available on Amazon. You can get a copy here: https://www.amazon.ca/-/fr/Mike-May-ebook/dp/B0DHV4FHZLThe 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 SpringsteenSong: Thundercrack (Studio Outtake 1973)Album: TracksShow Notes: 00:00 Introduction to the Swell Season Surf Podcast01:19 Meet Mike May: New Jersey Surf Legend01:52 Mike May's Surfing Journey02:19 Contributions to Surfing and Community02:59 Mike May's Personal Life and Current Adventures03:21 Mike May Joins the Podcast03:39 East Coast vs. West Coast Surfing06:07 Mike May's Historical Surfing Research16:14 The Story of Sam Reed23:51 Reflections on Surfing Culture and History35:33 George Gerlach's Influence on Surfing38:25 Mike May's Children's Book on Sam Reed47:56 The Evolution of Surfing in Atlantic City53:16 Blake's Influence on Surfing54:02 The Kook Box Controversy54:54 Sam Reid and Tom Blake: A Tale of Two Surfers59:24 The Legacy of Duke Kahanamoku01:04:15 The Dark Ages of Surfing01:05:00 Founding the New Jersey Surfing Hall of Fame01:11:58 Atlantic City's Rise and Fall01:23:00 Dean Randazzo's Battle and Legacy01:29:17 Closing Thoughts and Future ProjectsBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/swell-season--3483504/support.

On this episode of The Swell Season Surf Podcast, we discuss The Surfrider Foundation's landmark lawsuit against Exxon for allegedly misleading the public about plastic recycling and contributing to pollution. The episode's guest, Dr. Chad Nelson, CEO of Surfrider Foundation, shares insights on the lawsuit's objectives, addressing decades of misinformation and environmental impact caused by Exxon's plastic production. The conversation further explores broader environmental initiatives, including New York Climate Week events, ocean conservation, beach access issues in New Jersey, and the challenges of balancing surfing interests with environmental concerns. The episode underscores the organization's efforts in advocating for laws, strategic lawsuits, and the potential implications of the case against Exxon while encouraging public involvement in advocacy and conservation efforts.Go Join The Surfrider Foundation at: www.surfrider.orgYou 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: Wayne ‘Rabbit’ Bartholomew, Frieda Zamba, Flea Shaw, Corky Carrol, Pam Burridge, David Paskowitz etc…Song: Cool WaterAlbum: Wave Sliders: In a Blue Room00:00 Introduction to the Swell Season Surf Podcast01:22 Landmark Lawsuit Against Exxon03:01 Introducing Dr. Chad Nelson04:19 New York Climate Week and Ocean Advocacy06:09 The Plastic Pollution Crisis13:17 The Reality of Recycling27:19 Surfrider Foundation's Legal Strategy31:56 Surfrider Foundation's Mission and Impact36:43 Challenges of Creating Artificial Waves37:16 Human Structures and Surfing38:01 Coastal Erosion and Climate Change38:53 Surfers and Property Conflicts41:48 Community Efforts and Erosion Task Force43:07 Climate Change Denial Among Surfers43:50 The Reality of Climate Change48:35 Beach Access and Badge Issues53:02 Racism and Inequality in Beach Access57:55 Nature-Based Solutions for Coastal Erosion01:02:19 Offshore Windmills and Energy Alternatives01:09:20 Surfrider's Mission and Membership01:10:52 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsBecome 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 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.