Why do so many beginner surfers skip the unspoken rules—and how does that impact not just the lineup, but the soul of surfing itself?

In this raw, rant-filled yet reflective episode, surf coach Matt Grainger joins host Michael Frampton to explore the tension between surf culture, personal transformation, and the quiet power of breathwork and meditation. Whether you're stuck at home during a pandemic or dealing with ego battles in the ocean, this conversation hits home for surfers navigating change in and out of the water.

• Discover why learning to stay calm in discomfort—through ice baths, meditation, and breathwork—might be the secret to next-level surfing.

• Hear brutally honest insights on why soft tops and surveillance are reshaping surf etiquette—for better or worse.

• Get inspired by how Matt's personal transformation (post-divorce and alcohol-free) reshaped not only his surfing but how he lives.

Tap play to hear how letting go of ego—on the sand and in life—might just be the missing link in your surf journey.

Key Points

• The discussion touched on the impact of COVID-19 restrictions on daily activities, including the closure of beaches and the challenges of social distancing in supermarkets.

• Michael shared his experience with poison oak and recounted a recent surfing incident where a beginner surfer dropped in on him, highlighting issues with surf culture and etiquette.

• Matt discussed his rebranding of the gym to the Surfers Gym, focusing on making it more accessible and enjoyable, and shared his recent achievements in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu.

• Matt elaborated on his practice of Wim Hof and ice baths, emphasizing the benefits of these practices for physical and mental well-being.

• The conversation delved into the concept of fear, particularly the fear of death, and how overcoming it can lead to personal growth and improved decision-making.

• Matt discussed his approach to coaching, focusing on fun and froth rather than competition, and shared his experiences with different surf boards and techniques.

• The importance of self-awareness, personal growth, and the impact of social conditioning on relationships was discussed, with Matt sharing his journey of self-improvement and the dissolution of a long-term relationship.

• Matt highlighted the benefits of surfing as a fountain of youth, citing examples of older surfers who maintain their fitness and enthusiasm for the sport.

• The conversation explored the use of wave pools for surfing training, with Matt sharing his experiences at various wave pools and their benefits for coaching and skill development.

• The discussion concluded with insights on the seasonal approach to life and surfing, emphasizing the importance of experiencing different seasons and the value of winter for mental consolidation and growth.

For the passionate surfer—whether you're a weekend warrior, a surf dad, or an older surfer—this podcast is all about better surfing and deeper stoke. With expert surf coaching, surf training, and surfing tips, we’ll help you catch more waves, refine your paddling technique, and perfect your pop up on a surfboard. From surf workouts to handling wipeouts, chasing bigger waves, and mastering surf technique, we’re here to make sure you not only improve but truly enjoy surfing more—so you can get more out of every session and become a wiser surfer. Go from Beginner or intermediate Surfer to advanced.