In this episode of Group Y Live, I had the pleasure of speaking with Nik Strong-Cvetich, the CEO of Save the Waves Coalition. Nik's journey in conservation began in Washington State, where he developed a deep appreciation for the connection between surf ecosystems and coastal communities. Over the past 12 years, he has transformed Save the Waves from a small operation into a robust organization with a team of 14, working on projects in 15 countries.

We discussed the evolution of Portugal as a global surf hub, the significance of World Surfing Reserves, and the innovative conservation solutions that Save the Waves has implemented, such as the Save the Waves mobile app and climate insurance for surf communities. Nik shared insights into the challenges and successes of protecting surf ecosystems, emphasizing the importance of collaboration with local communities and other NGOs.

Nik also highlighted the organization's focus on the economic impact of surfing on coastal communities, illustrating how surfing can be a powerful tool for conservation. We explored exciting upcoming projects, including the development of the world's first insurance product for surf breaks and ongoing efforts in regions like Mexico, Costa Rica, and the Azores.

Finally, we touched on Nik's new podcast, "The Lead," where he aims to share leadership lessons from the conservation sector. This conversation was not only informative but also inspiring, showcasing the vital work being done to protect our oceans and surf ecosystems.