Foil Life Podcast

On this episode, we catch up with Otis Buckingham (@otisbuckingham), the young Maui waterman tearing it up in foiling, wingfoiling, prone, downwinding, and even big wave surfing at Jaws.

Fresh off scoring epic downwind sessions on Oahu's North Shore with legends like John John Florence, Otis dives into the high-level world of multi-discipline riding, his journey with KT Foils, and the future of foiling from the heart of Hawaii's water sports scene.

Episode Highlights:- Scoring dream downwind runs on the North Shore with John John Florence, Malat A, and friends—exploring new zones, glassy conditions, and the potential for massive Northeast swells with trade winds- Growing up in Maui's water sports mecca: boogie boarding at Sugar Cove, idolizing locals like Kai Lenny and Ridge Lenny from a young age, learning from Ho'okipa legends (Levi, Robbie, Keith, Jason Polakow), and getting mentored into the KT family early on- Big wave experiences at Jaws: rare no-wind sessions with a tight crew (Kai, Ian Walsh, Cash, Finn, Annie), the adrenaline of paddling into 40-foot barrels, the surreal drop feeling like a skyscraper, brutal wipeouts that build confidence, and the mental game of pushing through fear with friends' encouragement- How he joined KT: starting with windsurfing lessons from Levi, jumping ship from Ozone before they even had wings or foils, and now riding a versatile quiver like the well-rounded Nomad and Atlas series (cambered designs for low-end glide and pumping)- Loving the all-around performance of KT foils: one-foil versatility across downwinding, prone, winging, and tow; prototype downwind boards with insane stall speeds and pumpability; excitement for upcoming gear drops- Competing on the GWA tour: Maui crew dominance in Morocco and Cape Verde, podium finishes (2nd overall, 1st in prone), loving perfect reeling waves for big turns, airs, and slides—plus pushing windsurfing more in the future- Parawinging fun on mid-length prototypes for nimble, surf-like feels; Olympic aspirations in wing racing with American One Racing camps; sailing background helping with technical racing knowledge- Living in Laird Hamilton's old house for some extra "mana"; the unique Maui lifestyle where conditions dictate the day's sport (downwind, windsurf, kite, surf, prone); why water sports feel all-encompassing compared to land activities- Foiling's future: more global accessibility (even on flat lakes), exposure beyond hotspots like Hawaii/California/Europe, and embracing innovations like foil drive for no-wind days (with a healthy respect for the prop!)If you're into multi-discipline foiling, wingfoiling, downwind adventures, big wave stories from Jaws, growing up surrounded by legends, the evolution of brands like KT, or the pure stoke of island waterman life—this episode is packed with inspiration, real talk from the next generation, and serious foil geekery.

Catch the full conversation and follow Otis Buckingham on Instagram @otisbuckingham for his latest sessions, big airs, tow foiling, and Maui adventures. Big thanks to Otis for the insights, and stay tuned for more from the foiling world in 2026. Listen now!

On this episode, we catch up with Julia Castro (@fuertejulia), the versatile Spanish waterwoman from Fuerteventura, during her time repping Foil Drive at BOOT Düsseldorf 2026. Fresh from the massive indoor pool demos in "the surf hole" at the world's leading water sports trade show, Julia shares the electric vibe of the event, her journey into foil assist tech, and candid thoughts on the evolving state of professional watersports.

Episode Highlights:

• Life inside BOOT Düsseldorf: 5 days deep in the massive yachting halls, repping Foil Drive in the dedicated surf/foil area with a huge indoor pool setup—constant crowds, endless questions, and non-stop demos showing why foil assist is exploding in popularity
• How Julia discovered Foil Drive by chance at her local spot, went from skeptic ("this cannot be true, this is sorcery") to instant addict after binge-watching videos, and now handles marketing, content, and pro team duties for Foil Drive Europe after nearly two years
• The groundbreaking side of Foil Drive: first brand to make a truly universal mast-mount motor, plus their pioneering collaborative spirit—openly partnering with Slingshot, Armstrong, F-One, Axis, and more to grow the whole foil ecosystem instead of gatekeeping
• Overcoming major personal hurdles: shoulder destruction, a cancer scare right after recovery, COVID lockdowns in strict Spain, sponsor cuts, and shifting from full-time competition to event filming/social media work (now 60-70% of her income) while staying positive and healthy
• The tough realities of modern watersports sponsorship: the shift from skill-based deals to needing massive social media fame, pressure on guys to go ultra-extreme (with scary injuries), and the unfortunate bikini-heavy expectations for women—Julia fights for real choice, authenticity, and legacy beyond "only fans" style content
• Why brands hold huge responsibility: pushing real people as role models instead of curated illusions that harm mental health (especially kids idolizing non-real personas), prioritizing quality/value over raw views, and supporting diverse paths for women in the sport
• Foil Drive fun and future: addictive for water lovers, game-changing for wave sessions (catching 30-50 waves vs. friends' 5), altered dynamics (more rear-foot weight), potential SFT foil-assist/wave divisions, and her dream to compete again—plus a cheeky plan to "borrow" a battery for a van road trip back to Fuerteventura with snowboarding and foil stops
• Growing up in paradise: Fuerteventura childhood on the beach, late start to kiting/watersports (tourist-priced), realizing after world travel that home really is one of the best spots, now packed with visitors

If you're into foil assist tech like Foil Drive, the intersection of e-foiling/wave foiling/pump foiling, honest talks on gender dynamics and mental health in action sports, athlete resilience stories, or just pure stoke from someone living the waterwoman life—this episode delivers real talk, inspiration, and plenty of foil obsession!

Catch the full conversation and follow Julia Castro on Instagram @fuertejulia for her road trip adventures, Foil Drive sessions, event coverage, and more. Big thanks to Foil Drive for the ongoing innovation, and stay tuned for more from the growing foil world in 2026. Listen now!

On this episode, Gaetan (founder of Colombia eFoil) and Justin Chait (experienced eFoil coach and instructor) join us to talk about the building and running one of the premier e-foiling destinations in the Caribbean: a multi-location flight school and immersive retreat experience on the stunning Isla Barú peninsula near Cartagena, Colombia.

They share how Gaetan turned his passion for water sports—and his first e-foil flight (with Justin as his original instructor)—into a thriving business launched exactly two years ago, now operating out of luxury resorts including Aura Hotel Barú (the flagship spot with beachfront access), Sofitel Barú, and Hotel Las Islas.

Episode Highlights:

- The paradise-like conditions that make Barú an ideal e-foiling hub: flat, protected bay waters with mangroves, kilometers of glassy riding, warm 30°C+ water, consistent year-round weather (rare closures), and easy access to open ocean and nearby islands like Islas del Rosario for long-distance adventures

- How the operation works: three fully equipped bases with rescue boats, on-site charging, instructor-led boat coaching for safety and video feedback, premium service (boards prepped and rinsed for you), and the ability to ride from sunrise to sunset in board shorts

- Justin's coaching philosophy: breaking down fundamentals for riders of all levels, re-teaching body position and throttle control to build safer, more efficient technique that reduces fatigue and extends battery life—turning intermediates into advanced riders and helping beginners fly in days

- The famous 6-day eFoil retreats: beginner-friendly versions with open-sea crossings and island lunches by day 3; advanced/pro camps featuring daily drone video analysis, lap-time courses, wave riding, racing drills, 4–5 hours of riding per day, and group energy that pushes everyone’s limits

- Progression stories: students winning divisions at major events like Dubai after training there, couples where non-riding partners end up hooked, riders from 20 to 69 years old shredding (including 69-year-old wing-breeching legends), and a high return rate (~50%) of participants who come back for multiple retreats

- Gear & practical details: primarily using Fliteboard (as official distributor in Colombia), options to bring your own setup or rent, testing different wings/shims during retreats, what to pack (sunscreen, rash guard, hat, sunglasses—no wetsuit needed), and full all-inclusive logistics from airport pickup to excursions, diving, gourmet meals (fresh snook, octopus, tropical fruits), and epic group dinners/parties

- Why Colombia (especially Cartagena/Barú) is a game-changer for e-foiling: safe, tourist-friendly area with world-class resorts, incredible value, crystal-clear waters, wildlife, and a welcoming vibe that builds lasting rider friendships and communities

If you're dreaming of learning e-foiling in perfect warm flat water, accelerating your skills with world-class coaching, chasing long-distance island runs, or simply enjoying a luxury Caribbean foiling vacation—this conversation is loaded with inspiration, real-world insights, and pure stoke.

Check out Colombia eFoil at colombiaefoil.com (retreat details at www.colombiaefoil.com/efoil-retreat), reach them via WhatsApp (+57 304 315 1220), email ([email protected]), or Instagram @colombia_efoil. They’re also highly rated on TripAdvisor and Google with hundreds of 5-star reviews.

Listen now and start planning your own e-foil escape to Cartagena & Barú! 🏝️⚡

On this episode we sit down with Edan Fiander, the young Swiss powerhouse and reigning SFT Pump Foil World Champion. Fresh off his dominant win at the BOOT Düsseldorf event to kick off the 2026 season, Edan opens up about his rapid rise in the emerging world of competitive pump foiling—from his roots on Lake Geneva to claiming multiple Swiss titles and the global crown.

Episode Highlights:

- Edan's journey from a skateboarding background (with plenty of injuries) to discovering pump foiling as the perfect no-wind, no-wave solution for Switzerland's Lake Geneva—turning a casual try into daily obsession and a full community at Tropical Corner with around 250 yearly pass holders

- Why pump foiling stands out as one of the toughest foiling disciplines to start (needing pure self-generated power and balance) yet offers endless accessibility—no wind or waves required—and cross-training benefits for wing foiling, surf foiling, and beyond

- Training secrets behind his success: consistent dock starts, explosive full-range strength work, strapless sessions for feel, high-level coaching (physio, massages, and prep), altitude mask breathing drills for respiratory power, and handling turbulence from other riders in tight races

- Competing in the SFT: from a rushed debut in Düsseldorf (finishing 5th after a foil issue) to winning the event this year; key factors like lightning-fast starts, energy management, risk calculation in heats, mindset, and avoiding common falls (toe slips in straps, speed wobbles, buoy touches)

- Gear insights: riding the Lift HA 120 (775 cm², ~10.2 aspect ratio) for its perfect balance of glide, speed, playfulness, and tight turns—ideal for technical SFT courses—plus how modern high-aspect foils have evolved for racing vs. all-around use

- Life as a 19-year-old multi-time champion: balancing a gap year of intense training with upcoming university studies in business management, staying motivated to defend his title, and the joy of growing a small but passionate sport

- Bonus vibes: Swiss community spirit, why pump foiling opens doors for flat-water riders everywhere, quick tips for aspiring competitors, and even a taste of Swiss desserts (meringue with double cream from Gruyère—rich, not healthy!)

If you're into pump foiling, competitive foiling scenes, training deep dives, gear geekery, or stories of young athletes pushing limits in non-wind-powered sports—this episode is packed with motivation, technique breakdowns, and pure stoke!

Catch the full conversation and stay tuned to the Surf Foil World Tour (SFT) for more pump foil action in 2026.

Follow Edan Fiander on Instagram @edan.fndr for clips, training, and updates, and check out the Foil Life Podcast channels for the episode drop. Listen now!

On this episode of the Foil Life Podcast, we sit down with Eric, the talented videographer and photographer behind North's upcoming film featuring pro wing foiler Noé Cantaloube. Eric shares the story of teaming up with his friend Noé — a Nazaré big-wave charger and "Island Boy" from French Polynesia — for an epic month-long journey back to Noé's roots in Tahiti and Bora Bora.

Episode Highlights:

• How Eric and Noé connected in Nazaré while chasing massive waves, leading to the idea of a personal homecoming project with North — capturing Noé exploring his heritage, family life, and introducing wing foiling to spots he’d never ridden before
• Behind-the-scenes adventures in Tahiti: scouting uncrowded reef breaks, navigating localism and currents, SUP missions to distant points, drone scouting shallow reefs, and dealing with shifting seasons that affected marine life sightings
• Wildlife magic and connection to nature — close encounters with breaching humpback whales (Eric's first time in the water with them!), turtles, rays, and sharks; the unique way wing foiling allows silent, low-impact gliding alongside dolphins and other sea creatures
• Eric's evolution from wildlife photography roots to pro sports shooting (CrossFit, big waves), transitioning to videography during COVID, and why his multi-sport background helps him anticipate action for killer shots
• Shooting challenges in paradise: drone perspectives revealing shallow reefs and dry landings, underwater housing vibes with whale bass vibrating through the camera, horse-powered wakeboarding sessions for laughs, and off-road Hilux explorations across Tahiti
• Nazaré insights — from swimming in heavy conditions to jet ski, land, and drone angles; Eric's own progression toward bigger waves (tow-ins at 15-20ft+), training for hold-downs, and the tight-knit big-wave community
• Bora Bora realities: flat lagoons with no surf, why all wave riding had to happen in Tahiti, and how global changes are shifting animal patterns and seasons

If you're into wing foiling, surf foiling, big-wave culture, wildlife connections on the water, cinematic filmmaking in remote paradise spots, or just love stories of friendship and exploration — this episode is loaded with stoke, adventure, and inspiration!

Catch the full conversation and watch for North's new film dropping soon.

Follow Eric Wittkopf on his channels (check his website for stunning photography and videography work) and stay tuned to North Foils for the release featuring Noé Cantaloube.

Listen to the full episode on the Foil Life Podcast channels.

On this episode, we’re diving into the thrilling world of SFT e-foiling with Agnes Wicander — the Swedish powerhouse, Waydoo ambassador, sales & marketing rep, and standout women's SFT e-foil champion who dominated the scene in her debut racing season!

Episode Highlights:

- Agnes’s journey from a sporty Swedish family (kite foiling since 2015, yachting background) to becoming a top e-foil racer — spotting the Waydoo Kickstarter, starting with her dad in Sweden, touring Europe in a 6-meter camper van to build the brand, and shifting from chill cruising to high-speed, high-adrenaline racing
- Why e-foiling is the perfect complement to wind sports (wing foiling, kiting, paragliding) — ultimate accessibility in low-wind Sweden, tech appeal, silent exploration, and that addictive “foil throttle” rush that feels more like driving a fast car than anything else on the water
- Behind-the-scenes of competitive e-foiling: inaugural SFT & E-Foil Racing League seasons, technical courses rewarding skill over pure speed, prop wash battles, nerve management in sensitive-trigger racing, common falls (sharp turns & wing breaches), evolving rules, and how racing pushes brands like Waydoo to innovate (lighter batteries, better wings, upcoming Foil Boost for swell & wave riding)
- Gear talk & setup tweaks: Shimming madness (2 degrees too much = no lift!), custom wing choices for different riding styles, reverse mode for board recovery, GPS tracking, challenges in chop/swell without motor glide, and the dream of wing-breach capable foils
- Epic e-foiling destinations unlocked by wind independence: ultra-remote Papua New Guinea sugar-top islands, serene Norwegian fjords, canal cruising in Australia (coffee run on the board!), backcountry lakes, camping adventures, and exploring places a boat or jet ski could never reach
- The supportive women’s division vibe, growing female participation, ideas for making racing more accessible (battery rentals, event support), and why e-foiling delivers a unique adrenaline hit that’s hard, technical, and seriously addictive

If you’re curious about motorized foiling, the future of e-foil racing, silent exploration in any conditions, the massive progression from cruiser to competitor, or just want to feel that pure throttle rush — this episode is packed with inspiration and stoke!

Listen to the full conversation with Agnes on the Foil Life Podcast channels.

Follow Agnes on instagram @agneswicander

Welcome to Episode #2 of the Foil Life Travel Show. On this episode we’re heading to the wind-swept shores of La Ventana, Baja California Sur, Mexico — the legendary kiteboarding and foiling mecca in the Sea of Cortez, famous for its warm turquoise waters, super-consistent thermal winds, sandy beaches, and that pure Baja desert-meets-ocean lifestyle. In this episode, dive deep with Marty from Strong Kiteboarding (originally founded by Dwayne Strong)

What we cover:

- How Marty (former mechanical engineer and journeyman welder) and his wife Jill took over the school, now in their 15th season running it in La Ventana — building it into a family-operated business with permanent roots, two kids, and a tight-knit, multilingual instructor team
- Why La Ventana is a foil & wing paradise: warm 29°C (83–84°F) water, early-season thermals that can start as soon as mid-October, flat-to-rolling sandy conditions perfect for beginners, and bigger Nortes swells that draw advanced wave riders — all with minimal crowds on northern semi-private beaches
- The standout teaching system: private 1-on-1 watercraft-assisted lessons (jet ski support right beside you for instant, real-time feedback, maximum safety, and way more time actually riding — no endless beach walking!), morning tow-foiling in glassy flats to get beginners feeling the foil fast (knees in minutes, standing often under an hour!), ground wing training, and new options like para-winging
- Lessons covering kiteboarding, wing foiling (massive growth area), tow foiling, kite foiling specialties, and para-winging — catering to every level from total beginners to advanced (including strapless freestyle with pros like head instructor Logan)
- Full-service perks: all gear provided (helmets, PFDs, harnesses, bars, boards, kites, wings, foils in every size from Ozone and Core), rentals available, flexible multi-day packages, group/family sessions (up to 10+ people), pick-up/drop-off options, and expert local knowledge on accommodations, whale watching, fishing, mountain biking, diving, and the incredible Sea of Cortez wildlife

If you’re looking for rapid foiling progress, warm water, uncrowded northern launch spots like Ventana Bay Resort or Fig Tree, a welcoming community, and full Baja adventure vibes — this is the spot.

Book your La Ventana kite/foil adventure at: https://strongkiteboarding.com/ 
WhatsApp: +1 (250) 813-0035 | Email: [email protected]

Read our article: https://foillifepodcast.com/blog/discovering-la-ventanas-foiling-magic-inside-strong-kiteboarding-with-marty-and-jill

Next stop… who knows? Drop your dream foil destination in the comments ⬇️

In this episode which is brought to you by Armstrong Foils, we sit down with Dr. Jørgen Vogt—Secretary General of the GKA, GWA, and the brand-new Global Foil Board Sports Association (GFA), plus co-founder of the rapidly growing Surf Foil World Tour (SFT). Fresh into 2026, Jørgen shares the exciting vision behind forming the GFA and what it means for the future of non-wind-powered foiling disciplines.

Episode Overview:

• Why a dedicated association like the GFA was needed → to give emerging brands (like Foil Drive) and passionate individuals a unified voice separate from wind-powered sports
• Protecting the sport from misguided bans and regulations → real-world examples from kiting and wing foiling, the power of one strong international body when facing politicians or environmental concerns, and educating authorities on why foiling belongs on our waters
• Representation at high levels, including potential IOC discussions → ensuring the community—not outsiders—shapes the sport if it ever reaches Olympic consideration
• Unifying disciplines under one umbrella → consistent rules, clear world champions, better sponsorship opportunities for young pros, and support for recreational riders at local spots
• How the GFA benefits everyday foilers → from gear innovation and community strength to fighting access restrictions and promoting safety/environmental harmony
• The inclusive board structure → bringing together diverse voices from surf foiling, e-foiling, foil assist, and more for balanced governance
• Jørgen's unique background as a lawyer (LLM/PhD) turned full-time watersports advocate → why legal expertise matters for building legitimate, respected associations
• Looking ahead to SFT Season 2 → a welcoming, fun-focused tour where amateurs and pros mix, no one should fear entering, and the spirit is all about community, gear talk, and pure enjoyment

From preventing future bans to empowering small brands and grassroots riders, this conversation reveals why unified governance is the key to keeping non-wind foiling free, growing, and true to its roots. If you're passionate about pump, prone, downwind, e-foil, wake foil, or any foil discipline—and want to protect access while watching the sport explode—this episode explains the big-picture moves happening behind the scenes.

To learn more about the Global Foil Board Sports Association (GFA) visit → www.gfafoilworld.com
To learn more about Armstrong Foils visit → www.armstrongfoils.com

In this episode we connect with fellow Canadian waterman Michael Pisarczyk—a dedicated foiler based in Sarnia, Ontario, right on the shores of Lake Huron. Recorded as fall conditions ramp up on the Great Lakes, these two passionate riders share stories from the water, celebrating the world-class (yet underrated) foiling potential hidden in these massive inland seas.

Episode Overview:

• Michael's backyard access to Lake Huron—convenient home sessions, epic downwind runs (30-50K along the coast or on the mini-Hood River-like St. Clair River), and why almost any wind direction works here
• His multi-discipline journey: from youth sailing and windsurfing, to high-school kiting obsession, strapless surfboarding, and how foiling (wing, prone, pump, downwind) reignited the stoke with lower-wind windows and endless glide
• Pair winging progression: starting rough, unlocking upwind tacks against river current, and the unique freedom (and challenges) of no lines or booms—just pure hand-held power on small sinker boards
• That unforgettable first committed prone downwind run: full-send on the industrial-lined river, no falls allowed, pure focus on older square boards with paddle starts
• Building the "Great Lakes Waterman" channels to showcase lake potential—inspiring more locals (and globals) with stunning drone footage, while growing a small but frothing community
• Family foiling fun: gently introducing his 9- and 7-year-old kids to e-foils (knees-first mastery turning to stand-up runs) and side-by-side cruising sessions
• E-foiling's role in scratching the itch on flat days, keeping skills sharp with endless turns, and the exciting growth of competitive tours like the Surf Foil Tour (SFT)
• Why the Great Lakes are tailor-made for modern foiling—long fetch for rolling swell in lighter winds, massive playgrounds, and those rare but magical "world-class" bangers that make the chase worthwhile

From cold-water commitment to uniting disciplines and dreaming of Canadian SFT events, this chat is a love letter to Great Lakes foiling—and a call to get more people out experiencing the magic.

If you've ever chased lake swell, battled commitment points in downwinders, or wondered why these massive freshwater oceans deserve way more foiling love… this is it.

Follow Michael Pisarczyk → @great.lakes.waterman (YouTube/Instagram) | https://www.greatlakeswaterman.com

In this special Christmas episode, we catch up with Maui-based Emmy-winning filmmaker and passionate waterman Stephan Boeker—recorded remotely from opposite sides of the world (Canada and Japan)

The old friends reminisce about their first meeting at the 2013 ALOHA Classic windsurfing event on Maui, where they teamed up to run the live stream (Stephan's first non-wedding webcast and Luc's intense introduction to pro windsurfing behind the camera).

We go deep on:

• Stephan's unlikely path: from teenage windsurf obsession on Long Island Sound, to ditching a "serious" post-college career for a one-way ticket to Maui 25 years ago
• Hustling early days—busboy to resort manager, moonlighting wedding gigs, restaurant photo sales, and creative side projects (including touring Europe with Olympic skier Julia Mancuso)
• Pioneering wedding webcasts in the dial-up era with car batteries and duplexed broadband, evolving into cinematic storytelling that captures raw love and emotion
• Showing up "zen" on wedding days—leaving baggage behind to truly see and preserve those fleeting signs of love
• The surprise Emmy win for his documentary "Trilogy: It’s in the Heart" (a 50th anniversary film for Maui's iconic sailing family), rejections turned validation, and the profound life lessons that followed
• Windsurfing as a lifelong passion: starting at 12, Ho'okipa shorebreak humility, mythic mystique of the spot, and that memorable pep talk helping Luc battle through pounding sets to finally ride waves
• Parallels between presence on the water (reading chop, feeling equipment) and presence in life/filmmaking—letting go, respect, and embracing conflict as the story's engine
• Future stoke: wing foil lessons at Kanaha harbor, summer uppers sessions, and why foiling's low-impact glide could be the perfect addition for wave-snobs

From raw beginnings in windsurfing and weddings to Emmy stages and near-misses, this heartfelt holiday chat celebrates love, presence, perseverance, and the unbreakable pull of the ocean.

If you've ever chased windy dreams, battled shorebreak, or wondered what goes into crafting timeless stories of love and adventure… this is it.

Follow Stephan Boeker → https://stephanboekerfilms.com/