#78 - Thom McElroy. Surfer. Entrepreneur, Creative Visionary & Co-Founder of Volcom.

If you have been involved in surf, skate or snow sports in the last three decades; you’ve been impacted by Thom McElroy.   Thom stands as one of the most influential creative minds to emerge from modern surf culture. Along with Volcom founder Richard Woolcot and co-founder Tucker Hall, he helped redefine what a surf brand could be. And helped shoot it to the moon.   With a background in graphic design and marketing (and his own firm McElroy Communications) Thom was working with other leading surf industry brands while he quietly helped to build Volcom into one of the biggest action sport brands in the world. And… he helped infuse it with an identity that blended surf, skate, snow, music, and art. His work created trends, changed the energy of youth culture and  inspired a generation to think differently about creativity and individuality… in and out of the water.   Thom has always had a clear belief in the importance of culture, following his gut, surrounding himself with great people, mentors and mentoring; while staying committed to surfing every day… still to this day. He championed, and employed athletes, artists, and creatives who embodied originality over conformity, pursued working and playing hard, while helping elevate Volcom and many, many other brands, on the global stage.   For much of the outside world, Thom McElroy may not be a well known name; but if you are in the inner circle of the action sports industries, you absolutely know, or know of Thom.   Today Thom is a prolific mentor, board of director member, community member, prone paddler, family man and a full on surf turkey. It’s an amazing story of working your tail off, loving what you do, and making an impact on those around you… and on some of the biggest brands in the world.   0:00 – “Introducing Thom McElroy & Episode Overview” 2:25 – Thom’s Background & Early Journey 7:10 – Key Turning Points in His Career 12:05 – Challenges Faced & Lessons Learned 17:20 – Building Experience & Developing Skills 22:40 – Mindset, Discipline & Consistency 28:05 – Navigating Pressure & Decision-Making 33:30 – What Separates High Performers 38:55 – Personal Growth & Long-Term Perspective 44:20 – Advice for Those Starting Out 49:45 – What’s Next & Future Vision 55:10 – Final Thoughts & Takeaways