The Surf Strong Show

Actor, comedian, surfer, and ClipCast host Chris Wylde joins Greg Finch on The Surf Strong Show for an “It Comes in Waves” conversation about surfing, fatherhood, patience, and the waves that stay with us.Chris shares the story of his most recent wave at Rincon with his son — a small, uncrowded day that turned into one of those long, quiet, soul-surfing rides you do not want to ruin by paddling back out too soon.From there, the conversation moves through New Jersey beach culture, learning to surf at Blacks Beach on a board that made no sense for a beginner, life in Redondo Beach, and the connection between acting and surfing. Chris talks about how the “hurry up and wait” rhythm of working on film and television sets mirrors time in the lineup: long stretches of patience, followed by moments where you have to be ready immediately.Greg and Chris also get into surfing with your kids, knowing your limits in the ocean, longboarding footwork, cross-stepping, and why practicing movement patterns out of the water can help surfers feel more confident when wave time is limited.This episode is funny, human, surf-connected, and full of the kind of stories that remind us why surfing stays with us for life.In this episode:- Chris’s last wave at Rincon- Surfing with his son- Growing up “down the shore” in New Jersey- Learning to surf at Blacks Beach- How surfing teaches patience and presence- The overlap between acting, timing, and surfing- Longboarding footwork and the “dad bunny hop”- Why dry-land reps matter for better movement in the water- The unforgettable left Chris still daydreams aboutGuest Links:Chris Wylde: https://www.chriswylde.com/Chris Wylde on IMDb: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0943699/Chris Wylde on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/ChrisWyldeClipCast on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/clipcast-the-best-clippers-podcast/id574649000ClipCast on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7Aia6OpSRcdTjv15aTtQ8vClipCast on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/laclipcast/Surf Strong Links:Apply for 1:1 surf fitness coaching: https://surfstrongfit.com/startSurf Strong For Life: https://surfstrongfit.com/The Surf Strong Show is hosted by Greg Finch, surf longevity coach and founder of Surf Strong For Life, helping surfers build strength, mobility, breath control, paddle endurance, and confidence so they can stay surf-ready for decades.

n this episode of The Surf Strong Show, Greg sits down with Barrett Perlman — former professional wakeboarder, surfer, transformation coach, and spiritual guide — for a conversation about surfing, breath, meditation, confidence, and what it really means to stay present in the ocean.Barrett shares her path from professional wakeboarding to surfing, including the early frustration of learning to paddle, read waves, and surrender to an environment where no two waves are ever the same. She also reflects on a long backside right in Morocco that still lives in her memory as one of those waves that changes how you see surfing.From there, the conversation moves into the deeper side of surf longevity: breath control, hold-down anxiety, paddle endurance, pop-up mechanics, and learning how to stay calm when the ocean puts you under pressure.Greg and Barrett also talk about dry-land surf training, video review, adapting your pop-up to your own body, and why having fun matters just as much as “getting reps.”This episode is for surfers who want to keep surfing for life — with more strength, mobility, confidence, awareness, and connection to the ocean.Listen now and follow The Surf Strong Show for more conversations on surf fitness, longevity, resilience, and ocean-connected living.LinksConnect with Barrett PerlmanInstagram: @barrettperlmanWork with Greg / Surf Strong For Life1:1 Surf Fitness Coaching: surfstrongfit.com/start

SummaryIn this inspiring interview, Shiloh Strong shares his transformative journey through personal health crises, the power of surfing as a source of resilience, and the impactful work of Ashes to Films, a nonprofit supporting creatives affected by disasters. Discover how storytelling, community, and creative healing can turn trauma into hope.KeywordsResilience, Surfing, Creative Healing, Ashes to Films, Personal Transformation, Disaster Recovery, Mental Health, Community Support, Filmmaking, InspirationKey TopicsPersonal transformation through health crisesThe role of surfing in mental resilienceThe mission and impact of Ashes to FilmsGuest NameShiloh StrongSound bites"The Vanagon is almost the perfect vehicle.""The surgery was life-saving.""Reduce resistance, just go."Chapters00:00 Surfing Memories and Personal Connections01:39 The Significance of the Vanagon03:38 Life Changes and Heart Surgery03:39 Growing Up Between Two Landscapes05:57 The Healing Power of Surfing08:36 Transition to Santa Barbara and the Fire Incident10:47 The Impact of Loss and Community Support13:38 Introducing Ashes to Films16:03 Creative Recovery Through Filmmaking18:56 The Journey of Ashes to Films21:48 Empowering Filmmakers Post-Fire25:21 Evolving Perspectives on Time and Creativity27:10 Finding Balance in Passion and Life29:59 Reducing Resistance to Enjoy Life33:15 Navigating Digital Distractions36:37 Life-Altering Health Challenges40:55 The Transformative Power of Daily Rituals46:00 Redefining Success and Creativity49:14 Building Resilience Through Creativity55:46 Podcast Outro.mp4ResourcesAshes to Films Website - https://ashestofilms.orgTribeca Film Festival - https://tribecafilm.comWriters Guild of America - https://www.wga.orgDirector's Guild of America - https://www.dga.orgSundance Film Festival - https://www.sundance.orgGuest linksWebsite - https://shilohstrong.comTwitter - https://twitter.com/shilohstrongInstagram - https://instagram.com/shilohstrong

Dr. Ashley Allen lives at a rare intersection: emergency medicine, integrative healing, chronic pain recovery, and surfing.In this conversation, we explore how her work as an ER doctor has shaped her understanding of stress, healing, and the mind-body connection—and how her own personal journey led her to look beyond conventional medicine alone. Dr. Ashley shares how practices like stillness, breath, mindfulness, and surfing can help people reconnect with themselves, reduce stress, and begin creating real change without feeling overwhelmed.We also talk about burnout in healthcare, the challenge of slowing down in a high-stress world, and why healing often starts with small, simple steps and a willingness to believe a different future is possible.This episode is a grounded, thoughtful look at what it means to care for the body, calm the nervous system, and take ownership of your path toward wellness.TakeawaysHealing is not always about doing more. Often it starts by slowing down enough to listen.The mind-body connection plays a major role in stress, recovery, and long-term wellness.Small, consistent practices can create meaningful change without adding overwhelm.Surfing can be more than recreation—it can become part of a personal wellness practice.Healthcare providers need spaces and tools to process stress, avoid burnout, and stay connected to their own well-being.Belief in the possibility of change is often the first real step in a healing journey.Chapters00:00 Surfing as Medicine, Escape, and Awareness28:54 Making Surfing Part of a Wellness Practice34:32 Beginning the Healing Journey42:01 Mindfulness, Burnout, and Healing in Healthcare

Life gets busy. Motivation comes and goes. That’s why I use BAMs (Bare @ss Minimums)—the non-negotiable baseline I hit daily so I stay surf-ready no matter what’s going on.In this episode, I break down a simple 3-phase BAM framework:Morning: set intention + lowest-friction startMidday: movement “snacks” to stay loose and strongEvening: decompress, reflect, and reset for tomorrowIf you want surf longevity without overcomplicating your routine, start here: define your BAMs and hit them daily.Listen to more episodes here: https://surfstrongfit.com/podcastApply for Surf Strong For Life Exclusive Coaching: https://surfstrongfit.com/startKey Topics CoveredWhat “BAMs” are (and why they beat motivation)Choosing the day’s highest priority with less resistanceMorning setup: intention + simple structureMidday movement: keeping joints and tissue “online”Evening reset: reflection, decompression, and continuityTakeaways Consistency wins when motivation fades—BAMs give you a baseline you can always complete.Define non-negotiables that support surf longevity: movement + breath + mindset.Start your day by identifying one highest-priority target (then protect it).Use midday movement snacks to reduce stiffness and maintain readiness.End the day with a short reset: decompress, reflect, and tee up tomorrow.Keep BAMs small enough to succeed daily, then build upward from there.Chapters / Timestamps 00:00 — What are BAMs (Bare @ss Minimums)01:05 — Why life distraction kills consistency (and how BAMs fix it)02:58 — Morning Phase: intention + lowest-friction start04:20 — Picking the day’s highest priority (simple filter)05:52 — Midday Phase: movement snacks to stay surf-ready07:30 — Examples of quick movement / mobility check-ins09:40 — Using breath + mindfulness to shift state fast12:09 — Evening Phase: decompress, reflect, reset13:30 — How to stay adaptable without losing the routine14:20 — Simple challenge: define your BAMs and do them tomorrow

In this episode of the Surf Strong Show, Greg Finch shares a practical approach to shoulder recovery and shoulder prep for surfers. He explains why consistency with small habits matters more than occasional long sessions, and how breathing techniques can improve control and recovery—especially under stress. You’ll get a simple framework of mobility exercises and activation work to support shoulder stability, reduce flare-ups, and strengthen injury prevention habits that fit into real life. The goal: better sessions now, and long-term shoulder health for surfing longevity.TakeawaysConsistency in the small things really matter.Focus on those small things and taking action.Building good habits is crucial for recovery.Breath improves everything, especially during stress.Don't rush through exercises; take your time.Focus on five minutes of practice to build consistency.No pain, no gain is counterintuitive to long-term health.Warm-up is essential to prevent shoulder injuries.Check in with your body before surfing to avoid discomfort.Put the time in now to reduce pain and discomfort. Chapters00:00 Introduction to Shoulder Prep and Recovery05:04 Building Consistent Habits for Shoulder Health14:55 Shoulder-Specific Exercises and Techniques20:50 Conclusion and Long-Term Strategies for Surfing

Breathe Strong, Surf Strong: How Better Breath Transforms Your SurfingEpisode OverviewIf you want to surf stronger, longer, and with a calmer mind, it starts with something you are doing all day anyway: breathing.In this episode of The Surf Strong Show, coach Greg Finch breaks down how breath impacts your surfing, your recovery, and your day-to-day stress levels. He explains why most modern breathing habits quietly work against performance, and shares simple, practical breath techniques you can plug into your routines in and out of the water.You will learn how to use breath to boost paddle endurance, calm your nervous system after heavy efforts, and stay present in the lineup when conditions or crowds start to spike your stress. Greg also explores how combining good posture, mindful breathing, and small daily “micro practices” can turn your sessions into repeatable training for both body and mind.“Breath is powerful on so many levels.”What You’ll LearnWhy breath is one of the most underrated performance tools in surfingHow to weave breath techniques into your daily routines to improve recoveryThe role of posture and alignment in effective breathingHow mindfulness and breath work help manage stress, anxiety, and overwhelmWays to practice breath in and out of the water so it shows up when you need it mostHow to use breath to stay calm under pressure in challenging surf or life momentsSimple ways to extend your connection to the ocean with post-surf breathing rituals“Stay present, feel the wind and sand.”Episode HighlightsThe Power of Breath (00:00)Why breath is central to surf performance, focus, and long-term surf longevity.Modern Breathing Habits and Their Impact (04:24)How our daily lifestyle quietly trains shallow, inefficient breathing and what to do instead.Practical Breathing Techniques for Surfers (14:09)Simple, repeatable exercises you can use before, during, and after your sessions.Connecting Breath with Surfing (14:31)How to link breath to paddling, positioning, and staying composed in critical moments.Post-Surf Breath Practices (28:28)Ways to cool down, recover faster, and carry that ocean calm into the rest of your day.“Extend out the positive of the surf.”Take This Into Your Next SessionEvery paddle out is a chance to practice. Choose one breath technique from this episode, set a reminder on your phone, and use it:Before you check the surfWhile you are sitting in the lineupAfter your session as you towel off and head back to your dayYour surf training is not just what happens in the gym or in big swell days. It is in how you breathe through all of it.If you want more tools to build breath endurance, recovery, and mental focus for surfing, make sure you grab Greg’s Surf Breath Checklist and keep training your breath to Surf Strong For Life.

Morning Micro Habits for Lifelong SurfingSurf Strong Show Express with Greg FinchMost surfers think they need a “perfect” 2-hour morning routine to level up their surfing. In this Surf Strong Show Express episode, Greg Finch makes the case for something way more realistic—and way more effective: 10–20 focused minutes of breath and movement that keep you surf-ready for life.Greg breaks down how to start your day in a way that actually supports your surfing, instead of just checking another box on a self-help checklist. You’ll hear why surfing is such a high-demand activity on your body and nervous system, and how a few simple micro habits can keep your movement, breath, and mobility tuned so you can keep paddling out for decades.You’ll also learn why your brain secretly wants you to stay on the couch, how to work with that resistance instead of fighting it, and why “First breath, not first screen” is one of the most powerful performance cues you can use—both in and out of the water.In this episode, we get into:Why routines are overhyped—and how to swap “perfect routine” pressure for simple, repeatable micro habits.The true demands of surfing on your movement, breath, and mobility—and what it really takes to maintain them as you age.“First breath, not first screen” – a simple morning reset that downshifts your nervous system and sets the tone for your whole day.A go-to breath pattern (4-second inhale, 6–8 second exhale) you can use in bed, in the lineup, in the car, or in the grocery store line.A quick Surf Strong Primer you can do in 5–10 minutes:Gentle spine + hip wake-up (cat–cow, hip circles, thoracic rotation)Deep squat holds to check in on your lower bodyPush-up / pop-up variations that don’t wreck your shouldersDead bug / crawl-pattern core work that trains you to breathe under tensionHow tiny, consistent actions act like compounding interest for your surf fitness, resilience, and recovery.Why your “evolved mind” is wired to avoid effort—and how to design habits that sneak past that resistance.Who this episode is forThis one’s especially for you if:You’re a surfer who wants to keep surfing hard into your 40s, 50s, 60s and beyondYou feel stiff, tight, or beat-up in the mornings after a couple days of surfYou keep meaning to start a morning routine but get overwhelmed or fall off quicklyYou want simple, doable structure—not another perfectionist plan you’ll abandon next weekBig idea to take with youYou don’t need a flawless two-hour routine.You need 10–20 intentional minutes that:Start with breath, not screensWake up your hips, spine, and shouldersRemind your brain, “Hey, we’re surfers—we stay ready.”Come back to your breath. Come back to the fundamentals. Build from there.If you’d like help turning this into a tailored plan for your body, your schedule, and your surf goals, I’d love to help you map it out. If you're open to it, we could jump on a quick call this week, find out exactly where you are, what you want to achieve in your surfing, and lay out a plan to get you there.

Bianca Valenti is surfing the best waves of her life at 40. In this episode of the Surf Strong Show, she sits down with host Greg Finch to unpack what it really takes to keep charging big waves for decades—physically, mentally, and emotionally.Bianca shares how she structures her big-wave season between Mavericks and Hawaii, how she trains in the off-season, and why “just outside your comfort zone” is the sweet spot for growth in both surfing and life. She breaks down her daily surf-prep ritual—from warm salt water and massage gun routines to bands, foam rolling, and underwater weight training—and explains how small, consistent habits keep her ready for XXL swells.They dive into the mental side of big-wave surfing: managing fear, dealing with FOMO, recovering from burnout, and learning to pace yourself instead of going full throttle all the time. Bianca talks about balancing obsession with responsibility, rebuilding stoke, and playing the true long game of surf longevity.If you care about surfing strong for life—through movement, breath, mobility, and mindset—this conversation is a masterclass.If it resonates, subscribe, share this episode with a surf buddy, and check out all episodes of the Surf Strong Show for more surf-longevity training and support.Chapters / Timestamps00:00 – Bianca’s Big-Wave Season: Mavericks, Hawaii & Warm Water02:07 – Inside the Culture of Big-Wave Surfing04:36 – Comfort Zones, Fear & the First 6-Inch Wave at Doheny07:30 – Small Days, Reps & Staying Ready Between Swells10:24 – Surfing as Mental Health, Ritual & Saying “Yes”12:59 – Morning Routine: Warm Salt Water, Massage Gun & Paddle Prep18:58 – Consistency, Micro-Habits & Recovery Done Right21:49 – Pacing, Tapering & Listening to Your Body at 40+24:37 – Burnout, Balance & Rediscovering Stoke for the Long Game32:18 – Inside the Eddie Aikau: Honor, Preparation & XXL Waimea Chaos

In this conversation, Marcelo shares his journey from a young surfer in El Salvador to becoming an Olympic coach and founder of Puro Surf. He discusses the importance of community, resilience, and personal growth through surfing. Marcelo emphasizes the evolution of surf culture in El Salvador and the impact of his coaching methodology, the surf sequence, on aspiring surfers. He reflects on the challenges he faced, including injuries and the transition to coaching, while maintaining a focus on giving back to the community and inspiring others.TakeawaysMarcelo started surfing at a young age, influenced by his father's passion.His desire to improve led him to seek knowledge and tools for better performance.Growing up away from the beach fueled his passion for surfing.He developed a unique training program for himself without formal coaching.Marcelo's ADHD taught him focus and visualization techniques beneficial for surfing.He founded the Christian Surfers chapter in El Salvador to share positivity.Injuries led him to study hotel management, which shaped his future.Puro Surf was born from his thesis project, combining hospitality and surfing.Marcelo emphasizes the importance of community and mentorship in surfing.He believes in the power of sharing good energy and inspiring others.Chapters00:00 Marcelo's Surfing Journey Begins04:26 The Transition to Coaching and Community Building09:46 Injury and Education: A New Perspective14:00 Resilience and Overcoming Challenges18:58 The Surf Culture of El Salvador22:24 Balancing Tradition and Industry Growth27:22 The Mission of Puro Surf31:39 Creating the Puro Surf Experience34:41 Impacting Local Communities through Surfing37:33 The Olympic Journey and Its Significance42:58 The Vision Behind Puro Surf47:17 The Journey of Building Puro Surf55:47 Future Opportunities for Puro Surf

In this conversation, April Denny shares her journey from growing up in Marin County, California, to becoming a PhD candidate focused on human movement and performance in surfing. She discusses her experiences as a lifeguard, her transition to studying kinesiology, and her research on elite female athletes as part of the Paddle to Podium project. April emphasizes the importance of a holistic approach to training and the need for injury prevention in surfing. She also reflects on her time in Australia, working closely with athletes and coaches, and her aspirations for the future. Surf Strong Show Website Instagram Facebook April on Facebook April on Instagram Chapters 00:00 Growing Up by the Ocean 03:05 Transitioning to College Life 06:01 Exploring Kinesiology and Lifeguarding 08:55 Researching Big Wave Surfers 11:07 Journey to Graduate Studies 13:56 Lifeguarding at Ocean Beach 16:49 Training and Team Dynamics 19:50 Experiences at Kelly Slater's Wave Park 22:20 The Unique Environment of Wave Parks 27:10 The Dynamics of Surfing and Performance Improvement 32:26 Research and Education in Surfing 36:34 Navigating the PhD Journey 43:05 Cultural Insights: Surfing in Australia 48:11 Transitioning to a New Environment 51:22 Embedded Research and Athlete Support 55:19 Injury Prevention and Strength Training for Athletes 57:32 Research Focus: Preparing Female Athletes for the Olympics 01:01:23 Developing Effective Interventions for Skill Improvement 01:05:00 Challenges in Training Surfers vs. Swimmers 01:07:23 Key Findings on Stroke Dynamics and Injury Prevention 01:13:53 Community and Future Directions in Research 01:22:07 Podcast Outro.mp4

In this conversation, Jason shares his journey from academia to the military, detailing his experiences in combat and the challenges of transitioning to civilian life. He discusses the importance of finding purpose after service and highlights the mission of Operation Healing Forces, which focuses on supporting veterans and their families through retreats. The conversation emphasizes the healing power of surfing, exploring how it fosters connection, personal challenge, and emotional growth. Jason reflects on the unique relationship with the ocean and the future of surf therapy in helping veterans navigate their post-military lives. Links Jason on Facebook Operation Healing Forces Information on contributing to future OHF Retreats Takeaways Jason transitioned from academia to the military seeking adventure. Combat experience can lead to significant mental health challenges. The transition from military to civilian life is often difficult. Finding purpose after service is crucial for veterans. Operation Healing Forces provides support through couple retreats. Surfing serves as a powerful therapeutic tool for veterans. The ocean offers a unique connection that aids in healing. Surfing requires complete focus, helping to clear the mind. Building community and relationships is essential for veterans post-service. The future of surf therapy holds promise for veterans' healing journeys. Chapters 00:00 From Academia to the Military: A New Path 05:05 The Impact of 9/11 on Military Careers 07:52 Transitioning from Combat to Civilian Life 14:37 Finding Purpose After Special Forces 23:22 Joining Operation Healing Forces 34:56 Creating Safe Spaces for Conversations 42:21 Personal Journeys: From Novice to Surfer 47:31 The Immersive Experience of Surfing 52:35 The Unique Challenges of Surfing 01:01:08 Future Visions for Surf Therapy Retreats

Summary In this conversation, Kate Clements shares her journey of personal growth, self-discovery, and the creation of her travel company, Room to Roam. She discusses the healing power of surfing and ocean therapy, particularly in the context of retreats for veterans. The conversation highlights the importance of community, connection, and the joy of learning to surf later in life, emphasizing that it's never too late to embrace new challenges and experiences. Takeaways - Reconnecting with home can lead to personal growth. - Traveling and experiencing new cultures enriches life. - Creating Room to Roam was a leap of faith. - Surfing serves as a powerful form of therapy. - Retreats for veterans provide meaningful connections. - Learning to surf later in life is empowering. - The ocean offers a unique perspective on life. - Community support enhances personal wellness journeys. - Embracing challenges leads to joy and fulfillment. Connection with nature is vital for mental health. Chapters 00:00 Reconnecting with Roots 06:37 Journey of Self-Discovery 12:34 Creating a Life of Purpose 18:25 Empowering Others through Surf Therapy 29:37 Choosing the Right Path 31:05 The Humbling Experience of Learning to Surf 36:11 Surfing as a Metaphor for Life 41:50 The Power of Presence in Surfing 48:11 The Illusion of Control in Surfing 49:09 Building Community Through Surfing 51:03 Focusing on Meaningful Connections 57:40 Supporting Veterans and Strengthening Bonds 59:26 Podcast Outro.mp4

Surf Strong for Life: Unlocking the Secrets to Consistent Fitness and Mobility When I sat down to record this episode of the Surf Strong Express show, my goal was simple: to share the essential strategies and mindset shifts that have allowed me—and can help you—to maintain strength, flexibility, and overall well-being for a lifetime of surfing. Over the years, I’ve learned how to overcome the common obstacles that derail fitness routines and discovered a practical, no-frills approach to building a sustainable, surf-focused training program. Let me share these insights with you. Movement: The Foundation of Surf Fitness For me, movement is non-negotiable. But here’s the thing: it doesn’t have to be complicated. I’ve found that incorporating movement into daily life, no matter how small or simple, is the real foundation of surf fitness. It can be as straightforward as taking a walk around the block or parking further away from where you’re headed. These seemingly minor habits add up, creating a powerful ripple effect that supports more advanced training later on. Starting small and staying consistent has been my secret weapon. Breath: The Overlooked Superpower Breath work has completely transformed my approach to fitness and surfing. I didn’t realize how much of a “superpower” conscious breathing could be until I started integrating it into my day. It’s not just about enhancing surf performance (though it does that, too); it’s about using your breath to support every part of your life, from digestion to stress regulation. I’ve drawn a lot of inspiration from experts like Reese Peluso and Matteo Pistono, who have helped me deepen my daily breath practice. And honestly, it doesn’t have to be complicated—just start by taking a few intentional breaths between tasks during your day. Mobility: The Key to Longevity If there’s one thing I always tell my clients, it’s this: being able to touch your toes is more than just a party trick—it’s a key indicator of overall joint health and range of motion. For surfers, mobility isn’t just helpful; it’s essential for staying in the game long-term. Personally, I’ve learned to prioritize mobility by addressing postural imbalances and taking regular movement breaks throughout the day. Sitting too long? I get up and stretch. Feeling stiff? I do some targeted mobility work. These little actions have been game-changers for me, and they can be for you, too. Overcoming Resistance and Celebrating Progress Let’s be real—staying consistent with fitness isn’t always easy. Our primal brains are hardwired to conserve energy and avoid risk, which can make it tough to stick with a routine. I’ve learned to approach these moments of resistance with compassion. Instead of beating myself up, I celebrate the small wins—a few minutes of stretching, a short workout, or simply showing up for myself. Injuries and setbacks are part of the journey, but they don’t have to derail you. Adjust, adapt, and keep moving forward. The Journey to Lifelong Surf Fitness This episode of Surf Strong Express reflects everything I’ve come to believe about surf fitness: it’s not about perfection; it’s about consistency. By focusing on movement, breath work, and mobility—and by cultivating a mindset of self-compassion—you can unlock the secrets to lifelong surf performance. I’m on this journey alongside you, and I know that together, we can keep surfing strong for life. So, take these strategies, apply them to your own routine, and let’s keep riding the waves for decades to come.

Breath Awareness and Practical Application with Reis Peluso In this episode of the Surf Strong Show, host Greg Finch talks with Reis Peluso, a coach and educator specializing in breath awareness. Reis discusses his work with athletes and the practical applications of breath awareness in daily life, emphasizing the importance of noticing and adjusting one's breathing patterns. They explore the concept of CO2 tolerance versus air hunger and the psychological impact of breath control. Reis also shares insights on his Our Breath Collective community and how they integrate breath practices into various settings, including professional sports. This episode provides valuable tips for anyone looking to understand and optimize their breathing for better performance and quality of life. 00:00 Introduction to the Surf Strong Show 00:09 Meet Reis Peluso: Breath Coach and Educator 01:05 The Importance of Breath Awareness 02:25 Practical Applications of Breath Techniques 03:36 The Role of Curiosity in Breath Work 05:11 Adapting Breath Techniques to Daily Life 09:56 Mechanisms for Breath Awareness 17:53 Understanding Breath vs. Respiration 30:34 The Breath Collective: Community and Practice 34:54 Breath Work with Professional Athletes 39:58 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Matteo is an author, meditation teacher, and conscious breathing guide. He's written numerous books, including the one which he'll speak about today/tonight, BREATHE HOW YOU WANT TO FEEL; YOUR BREATHING TOOLKIT FOR BETTER HEALTH, RESTORATIVE SLEEP, AND DEEPER CONNECTION. Matteo began his study of the breath over 30 years ago while living in Nepal and Tibet-at the time working for a human rights advocacy group. Informed by his study of Buddhism and Hatha Yoga, extensive periods of solitary meditation, and pilgrimages across the Himalayan landscapes, Matteo offers an engaged approach to ancient wisdom traditions. Matteo has a Masters's degree in Indian Philosophy from the University of London, and his writings have appeared in The Washington Post, BBC, Men's Journal, and elsewhere. Matteo and his wife surf and ride mountain bikes from their home in Encinitas.

Alo Slebir discusses his training and focus during the off-season as a big wave surfer. He emphasizes the importance of training out of the water and striving to be better in order to perform well in the next winter season. He also talks about his circuit workouts, which include a mix of CrossFit and balance work. Alo explains the difference between off-season and in-season training, with a focus on building muscle mass in the off-season and maintaining paddle muscles during the season. He also discusses the mental and physical challenges of big wave surfing, the importance of decompressing after a big day, and the role of jiu-jitsu in his training and mindset. Alo highlights the connection between surfing and the ocean, and the importance of staying connected to the ocean in his life. He also talks about his tow partnership with Luca Padua and the trust and communication required in that relationship. Alo shares his experience of learning and surfing Mavericks, and the challenges and rewards of pursuing big wave surfing. In this conversation, Greg and Alo discusses the intricacies of big wave surfing and the mental and physical preparation required. He emphasizes the importance of understanding the variables involved in surfing, such as swell direction and wave size, and the constant learning process that comes with it. Alo also highlights the lifelong pursuit of improving surfing skills and the need to remain focused and calm in challenging situations. He shares insights into the safety protocols and checklists followed before tackling big waves, as well as the importance of the Junior Lifeguard program in fostering a love for the ocean.

Emily Hightower discusses her love for outdoor activities such as skiing, hiking, bow hunting, and kayaking. She explains the concept of skinning in skiing and the unique experience of being in nature. Greg and Emily also discuss the power of water and the importance of being present and connected to the environment. They touch on the challenges of attachment to outcomes and the need to focus on the process rather than the result. Emily shares practical tips for staying present and detached from outcomes, including visualization and down-regulating the nervous system. In this conversation, Emily Hightower and Greg Finch discuss the importance of regulating the nervous system and the role of breath and movement in managing stress and trauma. They emphasize the need to shift our perspective on stress and view it as an evolutionary tool rather than something to be avoided. They also highlight the power of reconnecting with nature and engaging in activities like surfing to improve overall well-being. Emily and Greg share their experiences working with first responders and military personnel and how these individuals can benefit from breathwork and movement practices. They also introduce their company, Shift, which focuses on helping individuals understand and interact with their stress physiology to optimize healing and performance.

In this conversation, Sam Bleakley discusses the power of connection in the digital age and the positive and negative aspects of technology. He emphasizes the importance of in-person interactions and the value of surfing as a global connection. Sam also highlights the significance of compromise and conversation in addressing challenges within the surf community. He explores the role of surfing in community and activism, as well as the inclusivity of adaptive surfing. Additionally, Sam discusses the potential of integrating music into surfing events and shares his personal journey in the world of surfing. The conversation explores the themes of following your passion, the intersection of geography and surfing. Being present and grateful, future goals and hopes for the surf community, and sustainability and balance.

In this conversation, Brian McKenzie discusses the importance of breath training and its impact on overall health and performance. He emphasizes the need to understand and manage stress in order to optimize breathing patterns. Brian also highlights the significance of walking as a foundational exercise and shares his personal experience with overcoming fear and trauma. Overall, the conversation explores the intersection of breath, fear, and performance. Brian and Greg discuss the importance of prioritizing self-care and personal growth. They explore the concept of reordering priorities and letting go of non-essential tasks. Brian shares his experience of investing in himself and overcoming codependency. They also discuss the dangers of multitasking and hyperconnectivity in today's society. The conversation delves into the impact of childhood experiences on adult behavior and the importance of breathing and self-reflection. Brian shares his insights on the power of walking and connecting with nature. They also touch on Brian's experience working with Tim Ferriss and Laird Hamilton. Finally, they discuss the benefits and misconceptions of heat and cold therapy, as well as Brian's training block and approach to competitions.

Scott Harrison, a photographer, shares his journey of discovering photography later in life and how it has become his passion and career. He discusses his approach to photographing landscapes, waves, and surfers, and how he balances his love for photography with his love for surfing. Scott also talks about the importance of having a mindset that allows for financial freedom and the ability to make choices. He shares his experiences of traveling in Southeast Asia and how it influenced his perspective on wealth and financial security. Scott emphasizes the importance of being present and embracing the unpredictability of photography and surfing.

Philip, the founder of Rise Up Retreats, discusses the evolution of his surf retreat business and the challenges and rewards of running a people-focused company. He emphasizes the importance of creating a welcoming and supportive environment for guests and the value of connection and community. Philip also shares his journey of finding balance between work and personal well-being, as well as his commitment to giving back to the community through Rise Up Kids International. 

Today we welcome Troy Cole former professional soccer player and owner of E-Motion Fitness. As a fellow coach and trainer I invited Troy on to discuss how his experience as a professional athlete and coach influenced his path as he took up surfing later in life over these last few years.

We welcome Taylor Knox back to the Surf Strong Show. Today he is joined by Matt Griggs. Together they run Nature of Success retreats in different locales throughout the year. On this episode we discuss Nature of Success, Kelee Meditation, personal performance, and the joy of building programs with friends that help others succeed.

We were lucky enough to get Taylor Knox on the show. In this episode we chat about his 16 seasons on the Pro Tour, winning the inaugural K2 big wave challenge, his knee injuries, a significant back injury he had when he was 15, and how he works through those things at that age. Continuing now into his fifty's what he does every day to keep himself surf ready and performing at a high level. It was really great to hear the routines that he does, what he brings, his approach and how we all can benefit from learning from some of those things and then applying them to our own routines. We also discuss The Nature of Success events he's doing with Matt Griggs. How Keele meditation has positively influenced his life and really was kind of a pivot point for him in his life. 

Born and raised on the North Shore of O'ahu Jamie Sterling has been charging big waves since his teen years, is the 2011 WSL Big Wave Tour Champion, and now own and operates Jamie Sterling Surf Experiences. We chat about his time as a Professional Surfer, what he did then and does now to prepare for big wave conditions that demand so much physical and emotional focus, and what it was like being around and learning from the likes of Jerry Lopez, The Ho brothers, Mark Foo, and Johnny Boy Gomes.

Really excited to have Surf Legend, Artist, and Musician Corky Carroll on the Surf Strong Show. Here's a bio of Corky from his bluemango website: The greatest competitor of California’s Golden Age and surfing’s first real pro was five-time US Surfing Champion Corky Carroll. Corky was right in the middle of much in surfing. Surfing in front of his family's beach house, he wanted a more durable swim trunk. He approached nearby Katin Surf Shop with his request. Nancy and Walter Katin got to work and created an industry.As a student at Huntington Beach High School, Carroll took surf safaris with good friends such as Mark Martinson, Robert August, Mickey Munoz, Billy Hamilton and Mike Doyle. When Endless Summer was released, he travelled promoting the film. Working for Hobie Surfboards, Corky found his niche interacting with the customers instead of in the back of the shop. In the water, Corky was so promising that Hobie Alter decided to sponsor him, paying Carroll to use and promote Hobie Surfboards.During the mid-’60s noseriding era, he was as good as anyone. He was a champion paddler with keen wave judgment and a competitive spirit that usually paid off with high-scoring performances. In 1968, he won the Surfer Poll Award as the best surfer in the world. Few disagreed. “Of everything I achieved in my surfing career, winning the Surfer Poll meant the most to me,” Carroll said. “To be named the best by the people was the greatest honor. It is one of the only trophies that I kept for my kids.”Corky was also at the forefront of the short board evolution, making the transition from long boarding that others could not. His Mini Model was the first production shortboard in America, and his Deadly Flying Glove model furthered the evolution.Carroll was a great contest surfer, but he was also a gutsy big-wave rider. He surfed Waimea and huge Pipeline and he was in the water at Makaha on the day Greg Noll paddled into the largest wave ever ridden in 1969, pre tow. “I only rode one wave though,” Carroll said. “It was a monster, at least 300 feet as I saw it. I also got caught inside three times that day and spent hours swimming in.”Carroll was one of the first to convert to twin fins in 1971 and was featured in a number of surf films in the ’60s and ’70s, including MacGillivray-Freeman’s Five Summer Stories.When competitive surfing lost some of its luster in the early ’70s, Corky Carroll reached into his grab bag of talent and diversified into an array of livelihoods. He taught himself to play the guitar and was soon in the studio producing albums of original music. He wrote several books, spent 10 years as advertising director of Surfer magazine, six years as a tennis pro and a couple of years as a ski instructor. All the while, Carroll never relinquished the surf scene. An inductee into the Surfing Hall of Fame, he now operates his surf school in Costa Rica and is a fabulous surf columnist.

Steve Gwenin will be joining us on this episode of the Surf Strong Show. We are going live! That'll be fun. Steve is an Executive Surf Life Coach and founder of Surfer's Life Club. Through his signature Work Less Surf More program he coaches senior managers and executives to re-shape their life, surfing more and living the life they envision.

Today we welcome Mike Latronic to the Surf Strong Show. Former professional surfer and team coach for Hurley and veteran big wave rider. Since 2002 he has published FreeSurf Magazine and produces BoardStories TV out of his home base on the North Shore of Oahu.

This is the first of our Surf Express Episodes of the Surf Strong Show where we will talk about what's on our mind, answer listener questions, and any other $h1t we feel like discussing.

This episode we welcome Pepa Ivanoff to The Surf Strong Show here’s a description of who she is and what she does in her own words “My name is Pepa, and I am an Australian born, Central America based Artist, Surfer and Traveler. I have over 20 years of international experience creating digital and analog art.  My artwork is both inspired by, and a result of, my nomadic surfer lifestyle.  I have chosen a life less ordinary in pursuit of my creative passion and I want to inspire others to curate a life that is a work of art. My Art and my Life is a constant and evolving exploration of travel, culture, nature, design, surfing, photography, tarot, colour, textures, textiles, taoism, and all things tropical. I have painted 302 Murals in 8 countries, and I love to combine traditional analog art with digital techniques, and in doing so have created my unique style.” We have a fun conversation of her growing up on the Gold Coast of Australia, moving to California in her early 20’s to advance a career in graphic arts, her decision to move to Costa Rica full time after 8 years in California, and how that opened the doors to becoming the mural artist and nomadic creative that she is today.

This episode is from a live stream where I talked about my path and journey as a coach and trainer. How injuries and early athletic experiences influenced me and steered me toward coaching. How the opportunity to connect with our surf community, give back, and coach surfers to stay strong and stoked in the water till their last breath is an absolute joy. This Surf Strong Show is a fun extension of that mission. I'm having a blast with these in depth conversations with true experts in the surf community, who have so much to provide, and are just giving back so much. This is a first of a series of live podcast events that I attend to do. Each will have a focused topic with an intention to keep them as quick takes around 30 minutes and hopefully full of actionable steps to real problems amd issues we face as surfers. We will often answer listener questions that you can submit before. Since it will be recorded as a live stream you can submit comments from our Facebook facebook.com/surfstrongfit and we may get to them right in that stream.

On this weeks episode of The Surf Strong Show we welcome Dr. Angie Mueller to the show. She is a Dr. of Physical Therapy with a practice on the island of Kauai in Hawaii and developer of the Core Recovery Method. We Discuss: Learning to surf later in life How it has allowed her to face some of her fears Hypopressive Breathing Method and how it allows us to access the involuntary side of our nervous system and reflexively trigger more fully our core muscle activation We go through a great breathing tool that you can do anywhere Links to what we discussed in the episode Dr. Angie Mueller Website Core Recovery Method Dr. Angie Mueller on Instagram

On this weeks episode of The Surf Strong Show we welcome Julie Cox to the show. She is the co-founder and owner of The Traveler Surf Club with 4 locations throughout California and a former 5th in the world ranked Professional Longboard Surfer. We Discuss: Learning to surf at Leo Carrillo beach and how it still feels like her spiritual home What is different and the same about paddling out today and the first time Her time as the Executive Director of The California Surf Museum in Oceanside Starting The Traveler Surf Club and what's in store for the future

Today I am very excited to have Dr. Tim Brown on The Surf Strong Show. He is one of the foremost experts and leading innovators in the world of sports medicine, going into his 50th year of working with some of the world’s most recognizable athletes. Dr. Brown currently serves as the Co-Medical Director for the World Surf League, a Performance Expert for both the US Olympic Surf Team and RedBull High Performance athletes. As well as working with Ripcurl and NEUX  to create cutting edge technologies. We talk about being the original Medical Director of the first professional Beach Volleyball Association, the AVP In the early 80s and how that experience combined with his own time as a college football, pro beach volleyball, and surf athlete was the start of a lifelong pursuit to change the recurring injury, rehab, recovery and reinjury cycle he was seeing over and over again amongst the athletes. Dr. Brown revolutionized the world of sports taping and soft tissue treatment with his innovative Specific Proprioceptive Response Technique. You may know it from the 2008 Beijing Olympics, when professional beach volleyball player Kerri Walsh brought SPRT to the world stage when she won a gold medal with Misty May-Treanor wearing a version of SPRT for an injured shoulder. We discuss his 5 progression pillars of fitness, how what you Eat, Think, Do is what you become, and the next event of his Surf Movement Masterclass series. Dr. Brown is responsible for influencing, training, and supporting countless athletes and the sports professionals that work with them. He is a personal mentor and I am honored to have him on the show.

This episode is an ask me anything show where I answer questions submitted from listeners like you. Some of the topics I cover are: How to start improving a shoulder that is showing weakness and discomfort and starting to negatively affect their surfing. What my personal Surf Fit Program looks like 3. What approach I take with my personal nutrition plan and those of my clients Full show notes can be found at: https://surfstrongfit.com/podcast

In Episode 005 of The Surf Strong Show Pro Surfer Teddy Navarro joins us to discuss: The amazing and crazy lineup at the Huntington Beach Pier His work helping children with Cystic Fibrosis through the Mauli Ola Foundation His path through early mistakes and struggles to a more present and positive life with his wife and children How losing his brother to alcoholism has greatly shaped his own choices in life How his Coaching By Ted surf instruction is a great source of joy for him Listen to Episode 005 of The Surf Strong Show with Teddy Navarro In This Episode:   3:00 - How the ocean humbles and helps check your ego  8:00 Huntington Beach Pier surfing scene 12:00 You can't fast forward your surfing  14:00 Never stop learning  18:00 How Teddy gets his amazing first person barrel shots  26:10 Just paddle out no excuses  30:00 Starting Ji Jitsu and his weekly movement plan  37:22 How losing his brother to alcoholism has profoundly shaped his life  49:00 Mauli Ola Foundation  1:02:00 Coaching With Ted

In this episode of The Surf Strong Show we talk with Michael Rintala. He is a chiropractor based out of San Diego, California and an expert in DNS or Dynamic Neuromuscular Stabilization. Michael explains how DNS concepts can feel difficult to connect to in the beginning and then takes us through some practical applications to start with. Our hope and focus is to plant a DNS seed, if you will, so you continue to pursue the concepts and give your practice time to develop. DNS is really powerful and a great way to compliment any other work that you're doing on your own or with other health and fitness professionals. It helps assess and is a wonderful check in tool. Michael takes us through a great three-step breath check in tool to identify how well you are, or are not, connecting to your diaphragm. The protocol gives tactical and real time feedback on whether your diaphragm is descending correctly and if your rib cage is expanding effectively through respiration. We discuss the critical intersection between breathing and stability, define what compensatory patterns are and why you need to know what the functional gap is if you want to perform to your fullest potential.

This week's conversation is with Mike Clancy author of the book surf trip a coming of age story in the Golden Era of Surfing Most of his career was spent at the US Navy's Fleet numerical meteorology and oceanography Center in Monterey where he worked for 28 years and retired in 2011 as the Director. Mike is also in front of the camera in the upcoming feature film a long road to Tao. Inspired by the book Tao of Surfing: Finding Depth at a Low Tide. We talk about these, surf forecasting, and how he stays in the ocean in his 8th decade.

This week's conversation is with Peter Park, owner of Platinum Fitness in Santa Barbara, California and an elite trainer for over 2 decades. Peter has trained the best of the best — Lance Armstrong, pro surfers Kelly Slater, Lakey Peterson, and Major League Baseball stars  Giancarlo Stanton and Justin Verlander to name just a few. His personal ultra endurance achievements  include 3 time winner of the “World’s Toughest Triathlon”, current record holder for the Catalina 50 Mile Ultra Marathon, and numerous Hawaii Ironman Triathlons. We discuss his work ethic, how it  helped make him successful and why it’s also what makes a balanced life difficult. How working with Lance Armstrong was like a PHD in aerobic endurance training. Peter lays out a plan to get you ready to get everything out of your next surf trip. Here’s our conversation with Peter Park

On the first episode of the Surf Strong Show I talk with Dr. Mark Kozuki Physical Therapist for World Surf League, MLB, PGA, and Olympic athletes and owner at Elite Performance Physical Therapy in Costa Mesa California. He also helps mere mortals like us stay strong in the Ocean. Join us as we discuss his morning routine, pre and post surf prep, most gifted books, and his favorite wave in the world. Mark introduces his Ki Release technique. This therapy is something that he has been pioneering with his patients over the last few years. It has had a profound impact on him and the path of his therapies. Learn what Ki Release is and how it is delivering amazing results to his patients.

Really excited to announce the Surf Strong Show. It’s our new podcast which is going to center on conversations on how to keep our community healthy, strong, vibrant and moving forward. We want to invite you to listen and watch live. We will have it streaming on our: Facebook page - https://facebook.com/surfstrongfit Surf Strong Fit Community Facebook group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/surfstrongfit Surf Strong Fit YouTube channel - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6yJY28ibPxRq_JfXZLK7bQ Join us, ask questions and interact. It will make the conversation more interesting and dynamic.  We want to answer your questions and bring you the content you want. Together let’s push our surfing forward. So stoked to have you here and I look forward to talking to you soon.