In this episode of Hawke Talk, I sit down with legendary waterman Laird Hamilton to dive into his extraordinary life story from being pushed into waves at age two in Hawaii to pioneering the biggest breakthroughs in surfing history.

Laird opens up about growing up on some of the most dangerous beaches in the world, the influence of his single mother and stepfather, and the relentless drive that kept him chasing the ocean day after day. He shares the behind-the-scenes of breaking barriers in big-wave surfing from inventing tow-in surfing to riding Tahiti’s “Millennium Wave” that redefined what was possible.

We explore the evolution of his career beyond traditional surfing: windsurfing, hydrofoiling, modeling, and entrepreneurship, all while holding true to his philosophy that persistence, curiosity, and loving what you do are the keys to a life well-lived.

Through near-death wipeouts, industry skepticism, and reinventing equipment to keep up with nature’s power, Laird’s story is a testament to relentless pursuit, faith in the unknown, and never letting your memories outgrow your dreams.

In this episode: 

• (00:00) The best advice: be relentless and love the pursuit
• (04:30) Riding waves by age two and shaping his first custom board at six
• (10:05) Obsession with the ocean and ditching school to surf
• (21:45) Breaking barriers with tow-in surfing and the Millennium Wave in Tahiti
• (28:17) Facing near-death wipeouts and rescues at sea
• (31:40) Transitioning into hydrofoiling and riding a 10-minute wave on his 60th birthday
• (36:25) Why curiosity and openness fuel the next frontier of ocean exploration
• (40:15) Laird’s advice: be relentless and love the work

Hawke Media

• https://www.linkedin.com/company/hawkemedia/
• https://www.instagram.com/hawkemedia/?hl=en 
• https://hawkemedia.com/
• https://twitter.com/hawkemedia
• https://www.facebook.com/hawkemedia/

About Our Guest

Laird Hamilton is a world-renowned big-wave surfer, innovator, and pioneer of modern-day surfing. Born in San Francisco and raised on Hawaii’s North Shore, he grew up on the world’s heaviest waves and went on to redefine the boundaries of ocean sports.

Credited with inventing tow-in surfing, advancing hydrofoiling, and tackling some of the largest waves ever ridden, Laird has built a career on pushing limits and embracing fear as fuel. Beyond the ocean, he has modeled, acted, and co-founded companies like Laird Superfood, bringing his passion for health and performance to a global audience.

For Laird, surfing is more than a sport; it’s a lifelong pursuit of flow, innovation, and respect for the ocean.

Laird Hamilton

• Laird Hamilton Website
• Laird Hamilton on Instagram
• Laird Hamilton on LinkedIn

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Hawke Talk, I sit down with legendary waterman Laird Hamilton to dive into his extraordinary life story from being pushed into waves at age two in Hawaii to pioneering the biggest breakthroughs in surfing history.

Laird opens up about growing up on some of the most dangerous beaches in the world, the influence of his single mother and stepfather, and the relentless drive that kept him chasing the ocean day after day. He shares the behind-the-scenes of breaking barriers in big-wave surfing from inventing tow-in surfing to riding Tahiti’s “Millennium Wave” that redefined what was possible.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of HawkeTalk, I sit down with Chad Willardson, founder and CEO of Pacific Capital, to hear how he went from a young Merrill Lynch trainee during the tech bubble to building a premier boutique wealth management firm for entrepreneurs.

Chad shares how growing up in Orange County shaped his values, why basketball and Michael Jordan fueled his competitive spirit, and what it really took to survive in a “shark tank” Wall Street training program where only three of 140 made it through. After nine years at Merrill Lynch and a front-row seat to the chaos of the 2008 financial crisis, Chad walked away from a seven-figure salary, lucrative offers from Goldman Sachs and Morgan Stanley, and even a multimillion-dollar signing bonus. Instead, he chose freedom, authenticity, and the chance to start over from zero.

We dive into the struggles and triumphs of launching Pacific Capital in 2011, from fighting off frivolous lawsuits to learning the nuts and bolts of leases, payroll, and leadership. Chad opens up about finding his niche serving growth-minded entrepreneurs, scaling his firm to $25M+ minimums, and why taking care of clients above all else has been the key to long-term success.

Through it all, Chad’s story is a reminder that persistence, integrity, and the courage to leave comfort for calling can transform both a career and a life.

In this episode: 

• (00:00) The best advice Chad ever got: take care of clients first
• (04:34) Surviving Merrill Lynch’s “boiler room” training days
• (10:24) Walking away from Merrill Lynch despite seven-figure earnings
• (15:54) Building a boutique family office model
• (22:15) Expanding services like tax strategy and travel concierge
• (23:20) Why entrepreneurs are underserved in wealth management
• (24:58) Advice on persistence and always putting clients first

Hawke Media

• https://www.linkedin.com/company/hawkemedia/
• https://www.instagram.com/hawkemedia/?hl=en 
• https://hawkemedia.com/
• https://twitter.com/hawkemedia
• https://www.facebook.com/hawkemedia/

About Our Guest

Chad Willardson is the founder and CEO of Pacific Capital, a boutique fiduciary wealth advisory firm in Southern California serving entrepreneurs and families with $25M+ in investable assets. Chad began his career at Merrill Lynch, where he rose to become one of the top advisors in his region before leaving in 2011 to launch his own firm.

At Pacific Capital, he and his team provide a true family office experience, from tax strategy and investment management to travel concierge and executive hiring support. He is also the author of Wealth Wired Differently, bridging the gap between entrepreneurs and financial professionals. Chad’s mission is simple: help entrepreneurs protect, grow, and enjoy their wealth while living life on their terms.

Chad Willardson

• Pacific Capital Website
• Chad Willardson on LinkedIn

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of HawkeTalk, I sit down with Chad Willardson, founder and CEO of Pacific Capital, to hear how he went from a young Merrill Lynch trainee during the tech bubble to building a premier boutique wealth management firm for entrepreneurs.

Chad shares how growing up in Orange County shaped his values, why basketball and Michael Jordan fueled his competitive spirit, and what it really took to survive in a “shark tank” Wall Street training program where only three of 140 made it through. After nine years at Merrill Lynch  and a front-row seat to the chaos of the 2008 financial crisis, Chad walked away from a seven-figure salary, lucrative offers from Goldman Sachs and Morgan Stanley, and even a multimillion-dollar signing bonus. Instead, he chose freedom, authenticity, and the chance to start over from zero.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of HawkeTalk, we dive deep with Dr. Jason Halbert, a former FBI profiler, military operative, and the former Chief People Officer at Snap Inc. Dr. Halbert shares his incredible journey from the front lines of death row to elite special operations in Afghanistan, and his pivotal role in shaping the culture and growth of one of the world's most innovative companies.

We discuss his upbringing in New Orleans and Alabama, the influence of his decorated father, and the drive that led him to a career in behavioral science, psychology, and leadership. Dr. Halbert also offers a candid look at his time working with serial killers, his experience in high-stakes military operations, and the vital lessons he learned about human behavior, leadership, and empathy.

From interrogating terrorists to recruiting elite talent for Snap, Dr. Halbert reveals the power of curiosity and clear expectations in leadership. He emphasizes the importance of being transparent, setting high standards, and understanding the psychological complexities of those we work with. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur, a business leader, or someone interested in human behavior, Dr. Halbert’s insights will leave you thinking about leadership and life in a whole new way.

In this episode:

• (00:00) Introduction to Hawke Talk podcast
• (00:31) Meet Dr. Jason Halbert
• (02:45) Growing up in New Orleans and Alabama
• (05:15) Early influences from his father’s legacy
• (09:47) The path to death row and understanding criminal behavior
• (15:23) Lessons from his time on death row and interrogating murderers
• (22:34) The transition to military service after 9/11
• (30:16) Navigating leadership roles in the military and corporate world
• (35:02) Joining Snap Inc. and shaping its culture
• (42:04) The power of curiosity in leadership and managing people
• (47:50) Key takeaways on hiring and setting clear expectations
• (51:28) Advice for leaders and aspiring professionals

Hawke Media

• https://www.linkedin.com/company/hawkemedia/
• https://www.instagram.com/hawkemedia/?hl=en 
• https://hawkemedia.com/
• https://twitter.com/hawkemedia
• https://www.facebook.com/hawkemedia/

About Our Guest

Dr. Jason Halbert is a behavioral science expert and former military officer who has spent his career studying the complexities of human behavior in high-stress environments. After serving in the U.S. Army and working as a classified operative, Dr. Halbert transitioned to executive leadership roles, including his tenure as the Chief People Officer at Snap Inc. He has been a key figure in shaping corporate culture and talent strategies at some of the world’s most innovative companies. With a background in psychology and forensics, Dr. Halbert has a unique perspective on leadership, human interaction, and organizational behavior. Today, he continues to consult and advise on high-stakes human dynamics across various industries.

Dr. Jason Halbert

• LinkedIn 
• Website

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of HawkeTalk, we dive deep with Dr. Jason Halbert, a former FBI profiler, military operative, and the former Chief People Officer at Snap Inc. Dr. Halbert shares his incredible journey from the front lines of death row to elite special operations in Afghanistan, and his pivotal role in shaping the culture and growth of one of the world's most innovative companies.

We discuss his upbringing in New Orleans and Alabama, the influence of his decorated father, and the drive that led him to a career in behavioral science, psychology, and leadership. Dr. Halbert also offers a candid look at his time working with serial killers, his experience in high-stakes military operations, and the vital lessons he learned about human behavior, leadership, and empathy.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of HawkeTalk, I sit down with Orlando Jones, actor, comedian, writer, and creative powerhouse, to explore the winding journey that took him from Mobile, Alabama to some of Hollywood’s biggest stages. Before he became a breakout star on Mad TV, Orlando launched a successful ad agency at 18, dropped out of college, and got his first TV writing gig on A Different World thanks to mentors who saw his potential and a willingness to listen more than speak.

Orlando opens up about learning the art of the writers’ room, co-creating the hit show Martin, and being mentored by legends like Gene Hackman and Lawrence Fishburne. We dive into his dramatic turn in films like Magnolia, his love of stage work, and his newest venture as CMO of Space Milk, a vegan performance nutrition brand. Through it all, Orlando shares why humility, curiosity, and connection, not clout, are what fuel lasting careers and meaningful storytelling.

In this episode: 

• (00:00) Introduction to Hawke Talk podcast
• (06:59) Starting a career in advertising
• (15:17) From writing to acting
• (25:24) Rise to fame with Mad TV
• (33:50) Transitioning to drama and high-profile projects
• (42:43) Mentorship and career evolution
• (46:16) Current ventures and future plans
• (51:07) Advice for aspiring professionals

Hawke Media

• https://www.linkedin.com/company/hawkemedia/
• https://www.instagram.com/hawkemedia/?hl=en 
• https://hawkemedia.com/
• https://twitter.com/hawkemedia
• https://www.facebook.com/hawkemedia/

About Our Guest

Orlando Jones is an American actor, comedian, writer, and producer known for his dynamic presence on screen and behind the scenes. He launched his career as a teen entrepreneur, founding his own ad agency at 18 before breaking into television as a writer on A Different World and co-creator of Martin. Orlando became a household name as an original cast member on Mad TV, later starring in cult favorites like The Replacements, Double Take, and acclaimed series such as American Gods and Sleepy Hollow.

In addition to his work in comedy and drama, Orlando is now the Chief Marketing Officer of Space Milk, a vegan performance nutrition brand, and continues to blend storytelling with innovation. Whether writing, acting, or producing, Orlando brings a rare mix of humor, intellect, and hustle to everything he does.

Orlando Jones

• Orlando Jones Website
• Orlando Jones on Instagram
• Orlando Jones on X
• Orlando Jones IMDb
• Space Milk Website

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of HawkeTalk, I sit down with Orlando Jones, actor, comedian, writer, and creative powerhouse, to explore the winding journey that took him from Mobile, Alabama to some of Hollywood’s biggest stages. Before he became a breakout star on Mad TV, Orlando launched a successful ad agency at 18, dropped out of college, and got his first TV writing gig on A Different World thanks to mentors who saw his potential and a willingness to listen more than speak.

Orlando opens up about learning the art of the writers’ room, co-creating the hit show Martin, and being mentored by legends like Gene Hackman and Lawrence Fishburne. We dive into his dramatic turn in films like Magnolia, his love of stage work, and his newest venture as CMO of Space Milk, a vegan performance nutrition brand. Through it all, Orlando shares why humility, curiosity, and connection, not clout, are what fuel lasting careers and meaningful storytelling.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of HawkeTalk, I sit down with Dean Karnazes—ultramarathoner, bestselling author, and a man who redefined what’s possible when you follow your passion. Before becoming a household name in endurance sports, Dean lived a typical corporate life, complete with a six-figure salary and a marketing job at GlaxoSmithKline. But on his 30th birthday, something shifted. After a night out, he impulsively ran 30 miles—despite not having run in 15 years. That unplanned run reignited his love for movement and sparked a journey that would take him to the world’s toughest races.

Dean shares how he balanced his corporate job with grueling training, often sneaking out on lunch breaks for runs and prepping for ultramarathons through sleep deprivation and sauna sessions. He walks us through running 100-mile races, surviving 129°F in Death Valley, and eventually running 50 marathons in 50 states in 50 days. His leap into full-time running came after the surprise success of his book Ultramarathon Man.

Like what you hear? Subscribe to HawkeTalk for more stories from risk-takers, builders, and boundary-pushers who refuse to settle for average.

In this episode: 

• (00:00) Childhood memories of nonstop motion
• (02:00) Hiking Mount Whitney at age 11
• (12:45) The brutal 50-mile race and qualifying by accident
• (14:45) Western States 100 and early race training
• (27:00) The North Face, 50 marathons in 50 states in 50 days
• (32:14) Dean’s advice: Stay curious

Hawke Media

• https://www.linkedin.com/company/hawkemedia/
• https://www.instagram.com/hawkemedia/?hl=en 
• https://hawkemedia.com/
• https://twitter.com/hawkemedia
• https://www.facebook.com/hawkemedia/

About Our Guest

Dean Karnazes is a Greek-American ultramarathon runner, bestselling author, and endurance athlete known for pushing the boundaries of human potential. Once a marketing executive, Dean left the boardroom to become one of the world’s most recognized ultrarunners. He’s completed some of the most extreme races on Earth, including 135 miles through Death Valley and 50 marathons in 50 states in 50 days. Today, he speaks globally, writes, and advocates for staying curious and uncomfortable.

Dean Karnazes

• Dean Karnazes Website
• Dean Karnazes on Instagram
• Dean Karnazes on Facebook
• Dean Karnazes on X
• Book: Ultramarathon Man: Confessions of an All-Night Runner

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of HawkeTalk, I sit down with Dean Karnazes—ultramarathoner, bestselling author, and a man who redefined what’s possible when you follow your passion. Before becoming a household name in endurance sports, Dean lived a typical corporate life, complete with a six-figure salary and a marketing job at GlaxoSmithKline. But on his 30th birthday, something shifted. After a night out, he impulsively ran 30 miles—despite not having run in 15 years. That unplanned run reignited his love for movement and sparked a journey that would take him to the world’s toughest races.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.