Advertise on podcast: The Mark Schulein Passion Project

For nearly four decades, Mick DiBetta’s life has revolved around the ocean; saving lives, racing across it, and coaching some of the world’s best athletes how to master it. Growing up in Brisbane and traveling to Australia’s Gold Coast every weekend, Mick came through the fiercely competitive world of surf lifesaving and ultimately became a professional Gold Coast lifeguard, a career that would span nearly 40 years. Along the way, he developed into one of Australia’s greatest prone paddleboard racers and won multiple Australian and World Surf Life Saving titles. The world of lifesaving and racing exposed him to Hawaii; where the islands and the people left a massive mark on him… and have been a huge part of his life ever since. It’s no coincidence that his defining racing moment came in Hawaii. In 1997, Mick entered the inaugural Molokai to Oahu Paddleboard World Championship (M2O,) tackling 32 miles of the notoriously unpredictable Kaiwi Channel; and won it in 5:22:48. That victory helped establish M2O as the ultimate proving ground in prone paddling and cemented Mick’s place in the sport’s history; and its future. Yet Mick’s influence may be even greater as a coach. A Level 3 accredited Surf Life Saving Australia coach, he transformed decades of racing experience into a science-based training system called AllPaddling; and has coached his athletes to 16 M2O victories, including Jamie Mitchell and his unprecedented 10 consecutive titles. Incredible. In 2026, Mick completed the historic Catalina Classic Paddleboard Race after considering it for decades. His 9th place finish, in his 60’s not only places his name on the iconic Bob Hogan Trophy but kept his incredible record going… a record of 26 x 32 mile channel crossing races; ALL completed in the TOP 10 and ALL in sub six hours. These are incredible and monumental achievements… and one that puts Mick in rarified air; amongst some of the best watermen in the world. Period. Mick hasn’t simply competed in prone paddling; he’s helped shape generations of it.   0:00 – Introducing Mick DiBetta 9:15 – Growing Up & Early Influences 19:40 – Finding His Path & Passion 30:25 – The Experiences That Shaped Him 41:50 – Building a Career & Taking Chances 52:35 – Challenges, Setbacks & Lessons Learned 1:03:20 – Family, Relationships & What Matters Most 1:14:45 – Stories From Along the Journey 1:26:10 – How His Perspective Has Changed Over Time 1:37:35 – Success, Purpose & Staying Grounded 1:49:20 – What’s Next & Looking Ahead 2:01:10 – Final Stories & Closing Thoughts

Dave Boehne was pretty much born into the surf world, with saltwater in his blood and foam dust in his hair. The son of legendary surf parents, shaper Steve Boehne and world-champion tandem surfer Barrie Boehne, Dave grew up around the family’s iconic Infinity Surfboards in Coastal Orange County, CA, riding everything he could get his hands on and shaping his first board at 15. He went on to compete professionally in both shortboards and longboards before becoming one of the early athletes and innovators pushing stand-up paddling (SUP) into a legitimate high-performance sport, both in the surf and in racing. And this hasn’t stopped. But Dave’s impact goes way beyond competing. He’s a surfer, shaper, designer, entrepreneur and creative force who helped drive Infinity’s evolution into high-performance short boards, long boards, all forms of “alternative” craft, SUP surf and race boards, and foiling; and he rips on them all. Today, Dave runs Infinity as the second generation CEO and as Creative Director and he isn’t just preserving the family legacy… he’s pushing it forward. Dave talks story about the evolution of the Infinity brand, growing up in the middle of an iconic surf family and the legendary surf community of South Orange County, CA and being surrounded by legends and influences across the world of surf. Stick around for the Brown Blurr himself, Captain Speed Freak… Dave Boehne. 0:00 – Introducing Dave Boehne5:35 – Growing Up in the Boehne Surfing Family12:10 – The History and Legacy of Infinity Surfboards19:05 – Finding His Own Path in the Surf Industry26:15 – Competition, SUP Racing & Life as an Athlete33:20 – Becoming a Surfboard Shaper and Designer40:35 – How Athlete Feedback Improves Board Design47:50 – Experimentation, Innovation & Testing Equipment55:10 – Running a Family Business and Building Infinity1:02:25 – How Surfing and Paddleboarding Have Evolved1:10:05 – Longevity, Creativity & Staying Motivated1:18:20 – The Future of Board Design & Final Reflections

Dave Kalama isn’t defined by one sport. He’s one of those rare athletes who has spent a lifetime mastering the ocean while helping reinvent how the rest of us experience it; I’ve been watching Dave and his crew and their contributions, in awe, for decades. Born with deep Hawaiian waterman roots, Dave grew up with the ocean in his blood. His father, Ilima, was an early U.S. surfing champion, and his grandfather, Noah, was instrumental in the growth of outrigger paddling on the U.S. mainland. That heritage became the foundation for an extraordinary career built around chasing fun; surfing, towing, paddling, windsurfing, SUP, foiling and more, while experimenting and innovating, in the name of fun and adventure, all along the way. But… believe it or not, Dave started as a competitive skier in California. When that didn’t pan out, he made his way to Maui, immersed himself in surfing and windsurfing, and quickly developed into an elite windsurfer competing at the highest levels. And that got the flywheel spinning. Dave and his incredible waterman friends became the legendary “Strapped Crew.” Together, they pioneered tow-in surfing, unlocking massive waves at places like Pe‘ahi (Jaws) on Maui and forever changing big-wave surfing. Dave then became a central figure in the modern development of stand-up paddleboarding, helping transform SUP from its Hawaiian Beachboy roots into an international sport. He went on to win the Molokai-to-Oahu SUP World Championship, proving innovation and elite athleticism could go hand in hand. Then came foiling, and ultra distance paddling adventures, and anything else that got their juices flowing. Dave and his friends continued experimenting with creative new ways to have fun in the ocean and explore what was possible. Dave hasn’t just helped innovate these sports, he’s competed and excelled across them at the highest levels while helping others master them too. As a long time coach, he developed Kalama Kamps to help others chase their fun on the ocean. In recognition of all of his contributions, exploits, and what he’s provided to the ocean community; Dave was inducted into the Hawaii Waterman Hall of Fame in 2018. What a well deserved honor. I think it’s safe to say Dave’s goal of chasing fun and somehow making a career out of it has worked out pretty damn well.   0:00 – Introducing Dave Kalama & His Life on the Water 7:20 – Growing Up, Ski Racing & Early Athletic Influences 15:40 – Discovering Windsurfing & Moving to Maui 24:10 – The Evolution From Windsurfing to Big-Wave Surfing 32:35 – Pioneering Tow-In Surfing at Jaws 41:25 – Fear, Preparation & Performing in Extreme Conditions 50:10 – The Rise of Stand-Up Paddleboarding 59:05 – Racing, Training & Building Endurance 1:08:15 – Discovering Foiling & Pushing New Ideas Forward 1:17:20 – Designing Equipment Through Experimentation 1:26:10 – Reading the Ocean & Staying Present 1:37:05 – Longevity, Life Lessons & Final Reflections

I’ve known Jack Bark since he was a little kid; when he would be onboard his dad’s escort boat during the Catalina Classic Paddleboard Race. Jack is one of the four children of paddling icon and master board builder, Joe Bark; so he’s been immersed in the paddling world since birth. It is definitely in his blood. I’ve been around to watch him go from a young gun to becoming one of the most accomplished prone paddling athletes of his generation.  The apple has not fallen far from the tree. Jack shares the stories of growing up in the awesome Bark household; surfing, fishing, spearfishing, paddling, growing up on boats and in the water from a very young age. If you know the Barks, you know Jack is part of paddling royalty; and the coolest, most inclusive and humble people you’ll ever meet. Jack has established himself as one of the world’s premier prone paddling athletes and has earned multiple prone paddling championship titles in the sport’s most prestigious races. With wins in the Molokai to Oahu race (M2O) he went on to a defining competitive achievement in 2024, when he won the Catalina Classic Paddleboard Race and broke the 25 year long course record. The same year his sister Emily won it. Amazing. With this win he became the first person ever to complete the crossing in under five hours. If you’ve ever paddled the Catalina Classic, or crossed the Catalina channel on a prone paddleboard you know just how fast that is. Still in his early 30’s, Jack is coming up on his 15th Catalina Classic, which is already an incredible accomplishment. It’s a family affair as all of the siblings have paddled this iconic race. We’ll have to wait and see if Jack pursues his dad’s record of completing 38 Classics. You never know… and I would not be surprised. On top of all of this Jack has a long list of extreme endurance, adventure paddles and runs; and he shares the stories, and his why, in this interview. On top of the paddling, Jack is a firefighter, a board builder, a husband (to an amazing waterwoman) and a new dad. It’s a heck of a life, and a hell of a story… and it’s really just starting.   0:00 – Introducing Jack Bark 6:45 – Jack’s Background & Early Life 14:10 – Discovering His Passion & Direction 21:35 – Early Challenges & Defining Experiences 29:05 – Career Turning Points & New Opportunities 36:40 – Overcoming Setbacks & Difficult Moments 44:20 – Discipline, Preparation & Personal Growth 52:05 – Memorable Stories From the Journey 59:50 – Relationships, Community & Mentorship 1:07:35 – Lessons Learned Through Experience 1:16:10 – Future Goals & What Comes Next 1:26:25 – Final Reflections & Closing Thoughts

Billy Pratt is a distinguished Hawaiian waterman, community leader, and dedicated guardian of a cultural legacy that reaches far beyond the islands. For decades, Billy has worked to preserve and perpetuate the values embodied by one of Hawaii’s greatest icons, Duke Kahanamoku; Olympic champion, legendary waterman, and Hawaii’s beloved Ambassador of Aloha. As president and longtime director of the Outrigger Duke Kahanamoku Foundation, Billy has helped advance opportunities for generations of young people through scholarships, athletic support, water safety, and community service. As a co-founder and chairman of the Hawaii Waterman Hall of Fame, he has helped ensure that Hawaiʻi’s extraordinary watermen and waterwomen, and the traditions they represent, are honored, remembered, and celebrated. His commitment also helped bring Duke Kahanamoku’s remarkable story to audiences around the world through the acclaimed documentary Waterman, on which Billy served as an associate producer. But Billy Pratt’s legacy is about more than accomplishments. It is about stewardship, protecting Hawaiʻi’s history, honoring those who came before, and inspiring those who will follow. He does through his service to numerous boards, committees and organizations all focused on making an impact.   Billy represents a powerful Hawaiian principle: that true leadership is not measured by recognition, but by service, responsibility, and what we leave for the next generation; and he does it all with incredible passion, purpose and “whacking it ‘til the wheels come off.”   0:00 – Introducing Billy & His Story 9:20 – Billy’s Background & Early Years 19:45 – Finding His Path & Early Influences 31:10 – Major Turning Points Along the Journey 42:35 – Challenges, Setbacks & Lessons Learned 54:20 – Building Success Through Experience 1:06:05 – Mindset, Discipline & Personal Growth 1:18:30 – Stories That Shaped His Perspective 1:30:15 – Relationships, Community & Giving Back 1:42:40 – Lessons From a Life of Experience 1:54:25 – What Billy Values Most Today 2:05:10 – Final Reflections & Closing Thoughts

Dan Mann makes surfboards for some of the best surfers on the planet; and for us normal humans. Dan has been shaping boards for over 30 years and in the last year he’s been showcased through a number of surf programs that highlight the best and most celebrated surfers riding boards that have been made for them by the most accomplished board builders, but under the veil of anonymity.  In the last two of these stealth contests, the only two he’s been in, Dan has made it to the podium.  He’s won one and got second in the other; against the best and most recognized shapers in the game. Not a fluke. The two surfers? One happened to be the GOAT, 11 time world champion, Kelly Slater and the other is Australian super style master Ethan Ewing; with some of the best surfing I’ve ever seen.  With more than 15,000 hand-shaped boards and tens of thousands more built from his designs, Dan has quietly become one of the most influential board designers of the modern era. And he’s as passionate about shaping today as he’s ever been. But this conversation is about much more than surfboards. I’ve known Dan since the 1990s, and he’s always done things his own way. He’s an exceptional surfer (who, believe it or not, only rides frontside… aka switch stance), a world-class prone paddler and Catalina Classic winner, and the founder of The Loop Race which is one of Southern California’s iconic paddleboard races in San Diego. Dan has an authentic and passionate way of seeing the world and when you hear about the mentors and icons he’s spent time with, you start to understand where some of it comes from. Dan shares the stories and lessons he’s picked up along the way… which go far beyond surfing. This is a conversation about craftsmanship, competition, creativity, the ocean, doing hard things, finding your own “seam;” ultimately it’s Dan’s full story… which is way bigger than surf.   0:00 – Introducing Dan Mann & His Journey 4:10 – Early Life & Discovering His Passion 10:05 – Taking Risks & Following Purpose 16:20 – Overcoming Challenges & Setbacks 23:00 – Lessons That Changed His Perspective 30:15 – Building Meaningful Relationships 37:40 – Staying Motivated Through Difficult Seasons 45:10 – Finding Balance Between Work & Life 52:30 – Advice for Those Still Finding Their Path 1:00:20 – Looking Ahead & Future Goals 1:16:45 – Final Reflections & Life Lessons 1:27:30 – Closing Thoughts & Outro

Growing up, I had amazing images of Shaun Tomson, surfing in Hawaii, gracing my walls. He also had a place on the walls of most everyone I know, and surely on the walls of anyone that surfed in the 70’s, 80’s and 90’s. Shaun surfed the waves and surfed the way we all dreamed of.  Shaun Tomson is a class act. While becoming a Pipe Master in 1975 and a 1977 World Surfing Champion; and winning 19 professional surf contests over a 20 year pro surfing career; Shaun helped design and define the golden era of professional surfing with an innovative style that inspired generations.  But his story doesn’t stop at world titles and his incredible surfing career… that’s just the first chapter. Shaun has also built successful businesses, become a passionate and celebrated environmental advocate, written bestselling books and an incredible movie; and has emerged as one of the world’s most inspiring keynote speakers.  After experiencing the heartbreaking loss, Shaun found a way to transform unimaginable grief into a powerful message about resilience, purpose, and living with intention. His “Code” has since inspired everyone, internationally, from Fortune 500 executives and elite athletes to students and everyday people looking to live more meaningful and empowered lives. Whether he’s talking story about epic surf sessions, sharing life lessons, inspiring or challenging people to become their best selves, Shaun brings passion, purpose and power to everything he does.  What an incredible opportunity for me to sit down and talk with one of my all-time idols… for way more reasons than just his surfing; but surfing is where it all started and what inspired generations.    0:00 – Introducing Shaun Tomson & the "Pinch Me" Moment 5:00 – Family History: War, Persecution & Escape to South Africa 10:00 – His Father's Shark Attack and a Surfing Family Is Born 17:00 – Finding Flow: Rhythm, Instinct & a New Style 30:00 – Surfing Through Apartheid and Crossing the Color Line 38:00 – His Father's Code: Grace, Sportsmanship & Never Complaining 45:00 – 1976: The Birth of Professional Surfing 63:00 – Losing Matthew and Finishing "The Code" 67:00 – Code 12: Turning the Code Into a Framework for Kids 107:00 – Rebuilding a Values-Driven Brand & Where to Find Him

Today’s guest is one of the most influential figures in the history of California ocean sports and public safety. Karl ‘Buddy’ Bohn spent four decades as a Los Angeles County Lifeguard, rising through the ranks from tower guard to Section Chief while helping shape one of the most respected ocean rescue organizations in the world. But Buddy’s legacy extends far beyond lifeguarding. In 1982, alongside fellow lifeguard Gibby Gibson, they resurrected the Catalina Classic Paddleboard Race; a legendary event that had disappeared for more than twenty years. What began with just ten paddlers has become one of the most iconic prone paddleboard races on the planet. For decades, Buddy served as race director, mentor, historian, competitor, safety lead and ambassador for the sport. He helped preserve the traditions of paddleboarding while inspiring generations of watermen and waterwomen to challenge themselves across the 32-mile Catalina Channel crossing.’ Whether discussing the evolution of lifeguarding, the rebirth of paddleboard racing, or “chasing opportunities” through his career and across his life, Buddy Bohn has been instrumental in Southern California waterman history; and far beyond.   0:00 – “Introducing Buddy Bohn & His Lifeguard Legacy” 4:45 – Growing Up in Southern California’s Ocean Culture 10:20 – Becoming an Ocean Lifeguard 16:35 – The Catalina Classic: History & Prestige 23:10 – Training for One of the Toughest Paddle Races 30:05 – Mental Toughness, Preparation & Race Strategy 37:25 – Memorable Rescues & Lessons From the Water 44:50 – Leadership, Mentorship & Lifeguard Culture 52:15 – The Evolution of Paddleboarding & Ocean Sports 59:40 – Advice for the Next Generation of Watermen & Women 1:07:30 – Stories, Reflections & What the Ocean Has Taught Him 1:15:45 – Final Thoughts & Closing Remarks

For more than two decades, Laylan Connelly has been one of the most respected voices covering the people, events, and culture of Southern California’s coastline. As an award-winning journalist for the Orange County Register, she has documented everything from world-class surfing and ocean racing to lifeguard championships, environmental issues, and the everyday stories that define life by the sea in Orange County. What sets Laylan apart isn’t just her fun personality or longevity in capturing stories of the coast, it’s the trust she’s earned. Athletes, lifeguards, paddlers, surfers, watermen, non-profits and a wide swatch of coastal based businesses have welcomed her into their world because she tells their stories with authenticity, accuracy, and genuine respect. Laylan’s reporting has captured the legendary people and the iconic moments in countless local events, creating an invaluable historical record of the Orange County coast. Beyond the headlines, Laylan has become a steward of coastal history, preserving the personalities, traditions, and milestones that might otherwise be forgotten. Her work has informed decades of readers while inspiring a deeper appreciation for the ocean and life on the coast. She has been widely recognized for her contributions to, and her passion for, the role she’s played for over 20 years now; including her induction into the Surfer’s Hall of Fame in Surf City; Huntington Beach, Ca. You can find her handprints in the sidewalk; right next to the Duke statue across from the historic HB pier. What a well earned honor! Laylan is the storyteller behind many unforgettable and important stories and a journalist whose career has become woven into the very fabric of Southern California’s ocean community.  0:00 – “Introducing Laylan Connelly & Her Journalism Journey” 5:15 – Getting Started in Sports & Surf Journalism 11:40 – Covering the Biggest Stories & Memorable Moments 18:30 – Building Trust as a Reporter 25:10 – The Evolution of Surf Media & Storytelling 32:05 – Behind the Scenes of Reporting on Athletes & Events 39:20 – Challenges, Deadlines & Life as a Journalist 46:15 – The Future of Surfing & the Outdoor Industry 53:10 – Advice for Aspiring Writers & Reporters 1:00:05 – Lessons Learned From Years in the Industry 1:08:15 – Personal Reflections & What Keeps Her Inspired 1:17:30 – Final Thoughts & Closing Remarks

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

Dr. Milica McDowell wants you to move and move well.  Dr. Milica is a Doctor of Physical Therapy, entrepreneur, educator, and USA Today national bestselling author who has spent more than two decades helping people move better, feel better, and live healthier lives. Dr. McDowell specializes in helping people build strength, mobility, resilience, and longevity and has worked with everyone from individuals recovering from injury and chronic pain to high performers seeking to optimize their health, performance and quality of life. Dr. McDowell holds degrees in Exercise Physiology, Health Promotion, Physical Therapy, and a Doctorate in Physical Therapy. She has served as a university faculty member, delivered more than 300 professional lectures across the country, developed medical education programs used worldwide, and founded multiple companies in healthcare, fitness, and sports performance. In 2023 she was recognized as one of the  Top 50 Women in Healthcare. And because that is not enough, she is currently getting her MBA at USC.  Her book, Walk: Rediscover the most natural way to boost your heath and longevity; one step at a time co-authored with renowned gait expert Dr. Courtney Conley, has quickly become a USA Today national bestseller and shines a bright light on one of the most powerful, and overlooked tools for improving health: walking. Ironically, in the UK the title is a bit different; Walk; Your Life Depends on It. Direct. I like it. Dr. Milica is as cool as they come and has a clear and singular goal of helping everyone live their best lives. When you think of doctors that you want to work with because of the way the care they give, the way they engage, their bedside manner and how they lead by example; you’re thinking of Dr. Milica McDowell.  0:00 – “Introducing Milicia McDowell & Her Journey” 3:05 – Early Influences & Finding Her Passion 8:20 – Building a Career Around Health & Performance 14:10 – Lessons Learned From Working With Athletes 20:00 – Movement, Longevity & Staying Active for Life 26:15 – Common Mistakes People Make With Their Health 32:05 – The Mindset Behind Sustainable Success 38:10 – Overcoming Challenges & Adapting Through Change 44:20 – Coaching, Education & Empowering Others 50:15 – Advice for Improving Health at Any Age 56:30 – What’s Next & Future Goals 1:02:10 – Final Reflections & Closing Thoughts

Wing Lam is the co-founder and creative force behind  Wahoo’s Fish Taco; the iconic Southern California brand that blends surf culture, street food, and entrepreneurial hustle into one of the country’s most recognizable fast-casual success stories. What started from a long family history of restauranteurs; he and two of his brothers created Wahoo’s, a cool local taco shop, with the desire to be a central place for action sports industry folks to eat and connect. Wahoo’s quickly became a lifestyle brand built on authenticity, community, and great food.  But Wing’s impact goes far beyond business. He’s a fun and passionate supporter of youth programs, local nonprofits, action sports, music, and grassroots community events, always believing that business should bring people together. Known for his energy, optimism, and genuine connection with people, Wing has become a respected and sought after voice in entrepreneurship, branding, hospitality, and culture. He’s a recognized entrepreneur that has stayed deeply connected to the communities and customers who helped build it. Wing’s super power is really recognizing how to grow a business without losing the soul that made it special in the first place; and how to make a real and lasting impact on everyone around him… while making it fun; and not taking himself too seriously. What a legend.  0:00 – Intro & Episode Kickoff 3:18 – Introducing Wing Lam & His Background 9:42 – Early Life & How It All Started 17:05 – Building the Business & Key Turning Points 25:48 – Challenges, Failures & Lessons Learned 34:12 – Mindset, Discipline & Staying Consistent 42:30 – Scaling Success & What Changed 51:06 – Leadership, Team Building & Culture 1:00:18 – Personal Growth Outside of Business 1:09:44 – Advice for Entrepreneurs & Creators 1:20:12 – Reflections, Perspective & Life Lessons 1:35:40 – Final Thoughts & Outro

Candice Appleby is a world champion paddler, accomplished surfer, and deeply committed coach whose life has been shaped by the ocean. With roots in Southern California’s surf mecca, she developed into the most dominant force in women’s stand up paddling, and has spent decades in this space, earning global recognition while continuing to evolve as both an athlete, waterwoman and coach. Her success isn’t built on hype. It’s based on loving the ocean, and spending a lot of time in and on it. Whether competing at the highest levels on the world stage, or surfing and paddling at home, Candice employs the same focus and intention; an approach that has defined her career and her reputation as both a hammer athlete and well respected member of the ocean community around the world. But competition is only part of the story. As a passionate coach, Candice has dedicated herself to developing others, sharing not just technique but mindset, grit and fun. She understands that performance is as much mental as it is physical, and her ability to translate her knowledge and experience into guidance has made her an incredible resource for ocean athletes at all levels. Her passion for helping others find their place in the ocean is crystal clear.  Positive, fun, and driven, Candice Appleby represents an impressive balance of elite performance and grounded perspective, proving that success isn’t just about winning, but about how you show up, day after day, in pursuit of something greater; while bringing others along with you.  0:00 – “Introducing Candice Appleby & Her Journey” 2:40 – Growing Up Around the Ocean & Competition 7:25 – Becoming a World-Class Paddler & Surfer 12:15 – Training at an Elite Level 17:35 – Discipline, Consistency & Longevity 22:50 – Setbacks, Injuries & Mental Toughness 28:10 – Coaching Philosophy & Helping Athletes Grow 33:35 – Balancing Competition, Life & Personal Growth 39:00 – Mindset, Pressure & Performing Under Stress 44:25 – Lessons Learned Through the Water 49:50 – Advice for Aspiring Athletes & Competitors 55:20 – Final Reflections & Closing Thoughts

Big Tony. For thirty years, that’s all I had known him as and I’m guessing I’m not alone. Like “The Rock”, Sting, or Bono, he doesn’t need more than one name. “Big Tony” is enough. It carries weight. It means something; and it fits. But behind the name is the man: Tony “Big Tony” Alvarez. And while a lot of people know the name, far fewer know the full story. The truth is, his path is deeper, broader, and more impactful than most would expect; and certainly more than I knew. The accomplishments span decades and the stories behind them are even better. As Tony tells it, he’s lived two thirty-year careers running in parallel. One in the surf world where he held many roles; always grinding,  building brands, at the biggest names, and leaving his mark across the industry and the people. The other path; in personal security, water safety, and training; teaching discipline, awareness, and protection at the highest levels.  Two paths. One mindset: show up, do the work, make a positive impact, leave it better than you found it & live with mana. Today, Big Tony Alvarez leads a life grounded with a commitment to Honor. Courage and Protection.  He’s proof that where you start doesn’t define where you finish. From a kid with very little to a respected and accomplished leader forged by discipline, culture, determination (and fun) in and out of the water. His story is about staying true to who you are, pursuing what drives you, and never bending to expectations that don’t fit. Know Your Rootz. That’s how you build something that lasts. 0:00 – “Introducing Big Tony & Episode Overview” 2:30 – Tony’s Background & Early Life 7:15 – How the Journey Started 12:05 – Key Turning Points & Breakthrough Moments 17:20 – Challenges Faced & Lessons Learned 22:45 – Building Discipline & Staying Consistent 28:10 – Mindset, Pressure & Decision-Making 33:40 – What Separates Winners From Everyone Else 39:05 – Personal Growth & Evolving Perspective 44:30 – Advice for the Next Generation 49:50 – What’s Next & Future Vision 55:15 – Final Thoughts & Closing Takeaways

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