#83 - Chris Mauro. One of surfing's most respected voices

Chris Mauro is a surfer, journalist, editor, storyteller, and one of surfing’s most respected voices. I’ve known of Chris for nearly 40 years because he’s always seemed to be right in the middle of surfing’s story; documenting it, sharing it, and helping preserve it for future generations. Raised in South Laguna Beach, Chris grew up as a beach kid. Once he found surfing, he immersed himself in it and eventually found himself traveling the world alongside many of the sport’s greatest athletes, innovators, and personalities. What started as a passion for surfing evolved into a professional career as a pro surfer, industry guy, journalist, commentator and a remarkable career behind the scenes telling the stories that matter. Many know Chris from his years at SURFER Magazine, where he served as editor during a defining era for the sport. Through his connections, his writing, interviews, and editorial leadership, he helped capture the people, places, and moments that shaped modern surfing. More than anything, Chris has a genuine curiosity about people and their path. Whether as a writer, interviewer, podcaster, or historian, he has a rare ability to connect with others and uncover the stories beneath the surface. In this conversation, we talk about his journey through surfing, media, travel, and storytelling, along with the lessons learned from a lifetime spent around the people who have shaped the culture he has been in the middle of for most of his life. It’s a great conversation with a guy who has seen, documented and helped share a big part of surfing’s history.. and its allure.   0:00 – “Introducing Chris Mauro & His Journey” 3:20 – Early Influences & Finding His Passion 8:15 – Building a Career Through Persistence 14:05 – Key Turning Points & Lessons Learned 20:10 – Challenges, Setbacks & Growth Opportunities 26:30 – Developing Skills & Staying Consistent 32:45 – Mindset, Discipline & Long-Term Success 39:00 – Navigating Pressure & High-Stakes Decisions 45:20 – Leadership, Mentorship & Giving Back 51:35 – Advice for the Next Generation 57:50 – What’s Next & Future Goals 1:04:15 – Final Reflections & Closing Thoughts