Surf Skate City Talk Radio Show

Surf Skate City Talk Radio: Restraint, Respect, and the Steamer Lane Incident"Welcome back to another heavy-hitting episode of Surf Skate City Talk Radio. Hosts Henry Michel and Richard Rodriguez are in the studio today with a lineup you won't want to miss.We are honored to sit down with Sandro Santiago, a legendary 6th-degree Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu instructor and the force behind Sandro Batata BJJ. But that’s not all—we’ve got a rare 'drop-in' from Ruben Sanchez, the iconic snowboard photographer who made the trek down from Tahoe just in time to catch the vibes in Santa Cruz.While this session was on the books weeks ago, the timing couldn't be more surreal. We’re diving deep into the viral incident at Steamer Lane that has captured the attention of the world—literally. Sandro shares how news of the altercation traveled all the way back to Brazil, proving just how tight-knit and connected the global surf community really is.In a raw and detailed account, Sandro breaks down exactly what happened when an aggressive surfer began throwing punches and issuing death threats in the lineup. You’ll hear about:The Incident: The moment-by-moment reality of being attacked while just trying to catch a wave.The Mindset: How a 6th-degree black belt maintains incredible restraint after taking hits to the face.The Philosophy: Why choosing not to hurt someone, even when they’re threatening your life, is the ultimate display of power and BJJ discipline.It’s a story of local grit, global headlines, and the discipline of a master. Tune in for an epic episode with Richard Rodriguez and Henry Michel."

Welcome back to Surf Skate City Talk Radio, where the culture runs deep and the stories hit even deeper. I’m Henry Michel——and I’m Richard Rodriguez. Today’s episode is one you don’t want to miss.We’re sitting down with Jason Williams "Willz" from Ribsey’s Nickel, an artist, musician, and snowboarder whose life has been shaped by creativity and connection. From growing up surrounded by some of the best surfers in Santa Cruz to crossing paths with iconic figures in the sport, Willz brings a perspective that’s raw, real, and rooted in experience.He dives into how art, music, and snowboarding have all played a major role in his journey—and how those passions continue to fuel what’s next. And speaking of what’s next, Willz isn’t slowing down. He’s got big plans on the horizon, from launching wearable art through clothing to creating high-end lamps designed to stand as functional pieces of art in your home.It’s a conversation about creativity, community, and carving your own lane—on the waves, in the mountains, and in life.So sit back, turn it up, and tap in—this is Surf Skate City Talk Radio.

Welcome to Surf Skate City Talk Radio with your hosts Henry Michel and Richard Rodriguez. Today, we are diving into a story that spans decades, oceans, and some of the most intimidating breaks on the planet. We are joined by Mike Gerhard, a man whose life on the board began on the sun-drenched pavement and point breaks of Malibu. Mike’s journey eventually took him from the California coast to the proving grounds of the North Shore of Oahu, where he didn't just survive—he thrived. During those formative years in Hawaii, Mike charged giant swells alongside the legendary Ken Bradshaw and found something even more permanent than a perfect wave: he met his wife, Sarah.The depth of Mike’s connection to surf history is perhaps best captured by his relationship with the late, great Jay Moriarity. In a true passing of the torch, Mike was the one who guided a young Jay out for his maiden paddle at the hallowed Waimea Bay. Years later, in a poetic reversal of roles, Jay returned the favor by leading Mike into the heavy, cold-water peaks of Mavericks. From that moment on, Mike became a fixture at the NorCal behemoth, cementing his status as a staple of the big-wave community for years to come."Settle in and get ready for an hour of pure, unfiltered storytelling. This isn't just about the waves; it's about the brotherhood and the grit it takes to charge the world’s heaviest water."We invite you to tune in and ride along for an incredible session of "cool story time" with Mike Gerhard. Whether you're a lifelong local or just a fan of the culture, this is an episode you won't want to miss. Let’s drop in.

Surf Skate City Talk Radio: Chasing Giants with Tyler Fox"Get ready for a heavy-hitting session on Surf Skate City Talk Radio as Richard Rodriguez and Henry Michel welcome Santa Cruz standout Tyler Fox to the studio. In this episode, we track Tyler’s trajectory from the classic California amateur circuit—grinding through heats up and down the coast—to the absolute peak of big-wave prestige. Tyler shares the untold stories of his formative trip to Europe with the late, great Jay Moriarity, the pivotal experience that truly fueled his obsession with the heavy water of Mavericks.We break down the raw intensity of those legendary finals, the surge of confidence that comes with realizing you’re inches away from the win, and the eventual evolution of the event into its digital format. It is a powerful look back at his final competitive outing, where Tyler secured a massive fourth-place finish among titans like Grant 'Twiggy' Baker and Shane Dorian. Join us as we celebrate the career of a local hero who stood tall in one of the most dangerous arenas on Earth."

Welcome back to the show—today’s episode is one for anyone who cares about the ocean, innovation, and the future of surf culture.Your hosts, Henry Michel and Richard Rodriguez, sit down with Pato Guerrero—surfer, engineer, and co-founder of Swell Cycle, a company rethinking what a surfboard can be.Pato’s journey started with a moment many surfers know all too well—watching a beloved board get destroyed. After his board was smashed against the rocks at Steamer Lane, what came next wasn’t just frustration—it was realization. While trying to repair it, Pato discovered something unsettling: traditional surfboards are toxic, and when they’re done, they don’t get recycled—they go straight to the dump.That moment sparked a mission.With a background in mechanical engineering from UC Irvine, Pato dove headfirst into solving a problem the surf industry had largely ignored. What followed were countless prototypes, long nights of research, and a relentless drive to build something better. The result? Swell Cycle—one of the first companies creating high-performance surfboards designed to be fully recyclable.In this episode, we talk about the science behind the boards, the challenges of changing an entire industry, and what it really takes to turn an idea into something that could reshape the future of surfing.So if you’ve ever wondered what’s next for surfboard design—or how innovation can protect the places we love—this conversation is for you.And hey, after you listen, go check out Swell Cycle and demo one of their boards. We’re excited to see where this goes.Let’s dive in.

Richard Rodriguez and Henry Michel sit down with a man who treats the Monterey Bay like his own personal backyard—local legend Mike Dilloughry. We dive into his record-breaking feat as the first and only human to paddle across the bay and back in a single day, a grueling 60-plus mile odyssey where he dodged swarms of jellyfish and shared the water with massive whales. But the ocean isn't just a playground for Mike; it’s a place where he saves lives. We recount the recent, heart-stopping rescue at Steamer Lane, where Mike and Darryl "Flea" Virostko were the first on the scene, pulling a family from the water in an act of bravery that truly defined "clutch." Between his heroics and his craft as a custom board shaper (Bah), Mike is the real deal.

"Welcome back to another episode of Surf Skate City Talk Radio, the heartbeat of the concrete and the coastline! I’m Henry Michel, here as always with my co-host Richard Rodriguez, just buzzing off the energy this season has brought so far. Man, Richard, looking back at the legends we’ve already had in the studio—from the OGs at the lane  to the new crew like KK—the stories have just been incredible. It got us thinking about who inspires us to get out there. You know, for me, watching a local ripper like Jack Snyder charge those massive Mavericks bombs is just next level, but then I look internationally and I’m still floored by the sheer style of someone like John John. Richard, I know you’re always hyping up the local groms pushing the limits at the breakwater, but you’ve also got massive respect for competitive beasts like Italo Ferreira on the world stage. But hey, enough about our favorites—this show is about this community. So, we want to hear from you: who needs to be in this chair next? Which local hero, underground skater, or international icon do you want to hear chop it up with us? Hit up our socials and let us know who we need to chase down for future episodes!"

Get ready for an unforgettable conversation with Sarah Gerhardt, the first woman to ever surf the infamous big-wave break at Mavericks. In this inspiring podcast interview, Sarah shares her journey growing up in the ocean alongside her mom—her earliest role model—learning confidence, courage, and love for the sea. She takes us to Hawaii, where charging powerful waves became the perfect training ground for taking on Mavericks, one of the most dangerous waves on the planet. Beyond her groundbreaking surfing legacy, Sarah is a dedicated chemistry professor, a wife, a mother, and an all-around incredible human who proves you don’t have to fit one box to live an extraordinary life. Tune in for a powerful story of passion, perseverance, and redefining what’s possible. 🌊🎙️

Jake Wormhoudt grew up in Santa Cruz during a special era of California surf culture, when the ocean shaped not just skills, but character. From working his way through the Junior Guards program to serving as a professional lifeguard, Jake’s early life was deeply tied to the sea. In the early 1990s, he became one of the pioneers surfing Mavericks, charging the massive waves during the break’s formative years. His path later took him south to San Diego, where he attended UC San Diego and transitioned into a career in tech. Today, Jake is a family man who looks back with gratitude on growing up—and surfing—during what many consider the golden years of the sport. In this interview, he reflects on risk, community, and how those early experiences continue to shape his life today.

Justin Burns grew up carving waves along the rugged shores of Santa Cruz, a quiet kid with a relentless drive and a surfboard that seemed almost like an extension of himself. Against the odds—competing against the best of the best and juggling school while chasing dawn patrol—he rose through the ranks to become  a national surfing champion. But Justin’s story didn’t end at the shoreline. Fascinated by the mechanics behind the gear he used every day, he traded his wetsuit for textbooks, channeling the same discipline that made him a champion into becoming an electrical engineer. Today, Justin stands as a testament to the power of passion and perseverance, proving that you can ride the wave wherever it leads if you’re willing to paddle hard enough.

Doug " The Surfing Magician" joins Surf Skate City Talk Radio.  Doug Talks surfing and Magic and he has merged his two passions into a successuful career. We go back in time to high school friends and gowing up in the Southside of Santa Cruz. Grab some popcorn and give it a listen!

Mark "Munster" Taylor joins Henry Michel and Richard Rodriguez on Surf Skate City talk Radio. Tune in to hear old school surf tales of the OG Volcom Santa Cruz traveling and surfing the world. Did you know how Mark got his Nick name? Tune in and find out!

Another Epic Show with Amber Jones and Bryan Anderson.  We talk, shark stories, local talent and educating the local youth. Tune in and be ready to be entertained by stand up community members that are always helping the youth and the environment. Be sure to leave a review and follow us on instagram: https://www.instagram.com/surf_skate_city_talk_radio/

The Price family take over the lagoon. Marty Price shows  with her two incredibly talented, humble and super nice kids to talk about growing up with supportive parents, surfing and navigating the surf, skate rich town that is Santa Cruz. Grab some popcorn, put on your earphones and give it a listen. Oh yeah and give us a  review and give us a follow on instagram! Mahalo! https://www.instagram.com/surf_skate_city_talk_radio/ eview if you would be so kind.

Another episone in the books! The tatented duo that have been best friends and competing against eachother meet up at the studio in the lagoon to talk story. From early rap days in the car going to competitions down south to surfing before and after school. Grab some popcorn and listen to what these two young talents have been up to. 

Another epic episone in the books. Lane Anderson and Kora Naunburg talk being young and growing up in the surf/skate rich town of Santa Cruz. Tune is and give it a listen!

Christer Cole Joins us live on KOMY radio. We talk growing up in Santa Cruz, charging Mavericks and Jaws. His wife Kai calls in from Maui and talks us about her scary shark encounter. Grab some pop corn, tune in and be ready to be entertained!

Another great show with a Santa Cruz legend! Vince Brogio talkts surfing Santa Cruz with all of the legends of the legends of the 70's, 80's all the way to the present. He also talks pioneering Mavericks and his tragectory to becoming one of Santa Cruz finest shapers!

Surf Skate City Talk Radio Show with Special guests  Maria Nealy and Levy Standridge. Another cool show about surfing and skating in Santa Cruz!

Isaih Guzman with Danny Bennet and son Kale. Granb some popcorn, put your ear buds on and listen to see how Danny was able to penetrate the Santa Cruz communiity  through his passion for his faith and helping others. Thanks Isaaih for taking over the show in my absence. Muchos Mahalos brah!

Another Epic show with local legendary surfers Nacho"Loco Lopez and Richard Schmidt. These are the guys who passed the torch to the next generation of Santa Cruz Rippers. Grab some pop corn and listen in. If you listen please rate and comment. Also give us a follow on Instagram.https://www.instagram.com/surf_skate_city_talk_radio?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==

The Virostko bros join us at the studio in the lagoon going live on KOMY home of school house radio. They share early childhood surfing memories as well as charging big gnarly Mavericks. Flea reflects on his 3 consecutive wins at the infamous Mavericks Wave. 

Join us for another entartaining show with Jack Snyder who has been charging Mavericks since he was 15.  Bryan Anderson offers insight on being a high school counselor and watching all of this talent emerge from such a talent rich town. Grab some popcorn, sit down, relax and listen.

Another great episode with local legend guest super couple Bud Miller and Amy Zavala. Put on your head phones and grab some popcord and be ready to be entertained with some cool surf stories. 

Another exiting episode with Luke  Prelgovisk and Sage Stewart. Luke owns and operates Lukes Skate Lessons and Sage  is ouner of Skate influenced Paint the World.  We talk story about growning up skateboarding and giving back to the community.  Grab some popcorn and listen to both of these positive role models for the youth have to say.

Tim Crabtree and Adam Replogle talk growing up in Santa Cruz and making videos for a class in High School. Adam talks about his experience tralveling the world as a professional surfer. Grab some popcorn and listen to the boys talk story.

The Guzman bros take over the studio at KOMY. The good looking, talented duo talks about family, life, hardship and success on Surf  Skate City Talk Radio. You don't want to miss this episode!

Willie Eagleton and Wilem Banks talk surfing childhood memories.  We talk about winning national titles and breaking big wave records in Hawaii. Both Genuinly great human beings that are great role models for the youth in and out of the water. Yeah boys! Ripping brahs!

For our first Episode of Surf Skate City we have our guest Tony Brigante coming to visit home all the way from the island of Kauai. We also have Richard Rodriguez  who is a local rippier and suf instructor. During the show we talk surf, shool and favorite surfers. Tune in to hear more!

This is the second episode of Surf Skate City radio show! Hosted by Henry Michel, this show covers the latest in the surf and skate scene in Santa Cruz.... the original hub for shredding and ripping it up. This episode, Henry's guests are Zolton Torkos, Rigo Torkos and Richard Rodriguez. Join us for an insiders conversation about whats up on the waves.