From being a nervous beginner to competing on the international stage, 14-year-old surf prodigy Isla Hardy opens up in this laid-back, inspiring chat. She opens up on the podcast about how she went from crying on tiny waves and getting physically sick from nerves to landing airs at major events like Stab High in Japan—all with a calm confidence way beyond her years.

What makes Isla really stand out isn’t just how quickly she’s progressing, but her attitude. She keeps things real when it comes to competition and failure, and shares her simple but powerful mental trick: “goldfish brain”—the ability to let go of mistakes instantly. Visualization is another key part of her prep, and hearing her explain how it helps her stay focused is honestly impressive.

The convo also dives into Isla’s time surfing on the North Shore of Hawaii, competing at nationals, and growing up in the close-knit surf scene in Santa Cruz. Through it all, one theme keeps coming up: joy. “The biggest thing for me is having joy, so that’s kind of what I try to put out,” Isla says. And it’s clear—that mindset is what keeps her grounded and loving the sport.

One of the coolest parts? How she and her friends manage being both fierce competitors and close buddies. “We leave it in the water,” she says, showing a level of maturity many adult athletes could learn from.

Whether you're a surfer, a sports parent, or just curious about how young athletes grow, Isla’s story offers a fun, thoughtful look at what it means to chase success without losing sight of what you love. Want more? Check out her new YouTube channel, Scratching the Surface, to follow her journey.

Surf's up in this thrilling episode featuring the incredibly talented Ryan "Chachi" Craig, a Santa Cruz native who's made a name for himself in the world of surf photography. Chachi shares his journey from his unconventional beginnings to becoming a renowned figure in capturing the vibrant essence of surf culture. Our friendship and professional collaboration form the backdrop to this engaging discussion, where we explore how diverse photographic styles can beautifully complement one another. Listeners will gain insights into Chachi's unique approach to photography, particularly in the realms of lifestyle and portraiture.

Photography enthusiasts are in for a treat as we shine a light on the intricacies of surf photography. It's not just about the waves; it's about the magic of lighting and composition that transforms the ordinary into the extraordinary. We take you behind the lens, discussing the challenges of capturing the perfect shot in various surf locations and the creative decisions that shape a photograph. From the unpredictable waves of France and Ireland to the adrenaline-pumping experience at Pipeline, this episode is a testament to resilience and creativity in the pursuit of capturing stunning images.

As we navigate through the thrilling and sometimes perilous world of surf photography, we share personal anecdotes that highlight both the risks and rewards of the craft. A memorable tale from Pipeline in 2002 underscores the dedication required to secure that perfect shot, even when faced with danger. Our camaraderie is evident in our playful wager on magazine cover features, adding a touch of humor to our intense passion for photography. Whether you're a seasoned photographer or a curious onlooker, prepare to be inspired by stories of adventure and the relentless pursuit of beauty in the world of surf photography.

Meeting Zeke was one of those moments that just clicked—like dropping into the perfect wave out of nowhere. In this episode, we look back on our shared journey from laid-back beach days in La Jolla to some seriously heavy sessions on the North Shore of Oahu. We talk about everything from Zeke’s insane bomb drops to that one sunrise surf that turned into an iconic poster moment. He opens up about his roots, and how growing up between La Jolla and Santa Cruz shaped his wild ride through the surf world.

But this story goes deeper than just waves. We get real about hitting bottom and finding a way back through surfing. Zeke shares his path—through addiction, jail time, and into recovery—and how the ocean helped him rebuild, one wave at a time. There’s a lot of heart in this one. We talk about second chances, staying sober, and how he ended up winning national college surf titles when no one thought he’d make it.

And yeah, there’s plenty more. From going viral to calling out industry BS, Zeke’s been documenting the ride in a way that’s raw, funny, and totally honest. We dig into what it’s like being young, creative, and carving out a new kind of surf story—on YouTube, on IG, and in real life. It’s all here: the highs, the wipeouts, and everything in between.

Tune in for a conversation that’s full of laughs, hard truths, and a whole lot of stoke.

When waves meet music and friendship, magic happens. This week on Nelly's Magic Moments Podcast, we welcome Landon, a long-time friend and the mastermind behind the unforgettable North Shore concert on Waihuana Farms. We explore the vibrant North Shore of Oahu, where Landon's vision for the "Canoeing Fest" is set to revive the music scene. But it all started with a celebration of his win at the Eddie. His passion for the arts and community spirit shines through as he shares his journey of bringing together bands like Kanaka Fire and Music and Rhythm, all in the name of love and connection. Our conversation takes a deeper turn as we paddle through the emotional and spiritual journey of surfing at Waimea. It’s not just about the waves; it's about the turtles making appearances and the raw connection with nature that brings personal growth and humility. Discover the strength of vulnerability in overcoming personal struggles, as Landon opens up about his path in the recovery community. His honesty and humility stand as a beacon of hope, showing us how past experiences can transform into powerful, positive influences when supported by a close-knit community. Family and personal growth form the backbone of this episode as we reflect on the unyielding support of loved ones and influential figures. From the unwavering loyalty of the Tenore brand to the lessons learned from parents who gave everything despite having nothing, there’s a poignant exploration of resilience and unity. As we reminisce about shared memories, we also celebrate the artistic journeys that arise from life's challenges. Whether it's the thrill of the surf or the creation of music, there's an appreciation for the small things that make life beautiful, reminding us of the lasting impact of family, friends, and the stories that bind us together.

Ever wondered what it’s like to ride monster waves on Hawaii’s North Shore with some of the best surfers out there? Well, you’re in for a treat! In this episode, we’re hanging out with Mikey Bruneau—an epic surfer and all-around great guy—who takes us on a wild ride through his journey from growing up on the Big Island to tackling the legendary Pipeline.

Mikey shares what it was like surfing with childhood friends like CJ Kanuha and learning from the legendary Shane Dorian. We dive into the deep connection Hawaiian surfers have with the ocean, the culture that welcomes both locals and visitors, and what makes Hawaii’s surf scene so special.

But that’s not all—things take an interesting turn as we compare the golden days of big surf sponsorships to today’s crazy real estate market in Hawaii. Mikey opens up about balancing life between catching waves and navigating the business world, and how finding the perfect wave isn’t all that different from chasing the right investment.

Get ready for some jaw-dropping stories—like facing off against 30-foot waves and the friendships that form in those high-stakes moments. We’ll talk about the lessons surfers pass down, the thrill of watching footage of insane rides, and the unspoken rules of the lineup that keep the sport alive and thriving.

So grab a seat, tune in, and get ready to soak up some serious surf wisdom with us!

Ready for an inspiring dive into the creative flow? In this episode of Nelly’s Magic Moments, we’re joined by the brilliant Maia Negre, an artist whose ocean-inspired masterpieces capture the rhythm and soul of nature. From her early days of mentorship at 12 to becoming a celebrated artist in Santa Cruz, Maia shares her incredible journey of growth and transformation.

We explore the magic of community festivals like the Art and Wine Festival, a true celebration of connection in today’s digital age. Maia opens up about how art, collaboration, and a mindful approach to life have shaped her creative process. From turning photographs into wearable art to embracing the balance of entrepreneurship and passion, Maia’s story is one of synchronicity and personal growth.

We also take a moment to reflect on the power of patience, gratitude, and the beauty of life unfolding—principles that fuel Maia’s creativity and can inspire us all. And, to top it off, a special birthday wish for my daughter, Kiala, bringing personal warmth to this episode of magic.

Whether you're an artist, a surfer, or simply someone who appreciates the art of living fully, this episode is packed with wisdom and heart. Tune in for a conversation that celebrates art, community, and the unexpected joys that come when we let life unfold.

Don’t miss it! 

#NellysMagicMoments #ArtAndNature #CommunityMatters #MindfulCreativity #SurfAndArt #GratitudeAndGrowth

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Get ready for an electrifying ride as we sit down with legendary big-wave surfer Alo Slebir, known for fearlessly charging the monstrous waves at Mavericks. In this episode, Alo opens up about the impact of climate change on the world’s most iconic surf breaks, reflecting on shifting weather patterns, rising ocean temperatures, and their effect on wave conditions and coastal erosion.

We dive into the thrill and danger of California’s dynamic geography, from riding towering waves to living on the fault lines that shape the coastline. Nelly & Alo share wild stories from growing up in an earthquake-prone state to chasing swells in California and Hawaii. 

But the heart-pounding highlight? Alo recounts an insane week of surf adventure, racing between Jaws in Maui and Mavericks in California to chase the same historic swell. The episode crescendos with a jaw-dropping moment—Alo's ride on a potential record-breaking 108 ft. wave at Mavericks.

How do elite surfers prepare for waves of this magnitude? Alo breaks down the science of reading buoy data, the intense mental and physical training, and the unbreakable trust between surf partners like Luca Padua. Plus, we shine a light on the unsung heroes—the Mavericks rescue team—whose courage and quick thinking make big-wave surfing possible.

Join us for an adrenaline-fueled deep dive into the world of extreme surfing, where nature’s raw power meets human resilience. Whether you’re a seasoned surfer or simply fascinated by the ocean’s might, this episode is one you won’t want to miss! 🌊🔥🎙️

Geoff Weers and Adam Patterson of The Expendables join us for an exciting walk down memory lane as we celebrate their remarkable 25-year journey from childhood friends in Santa Cruz to reggae-rock icons. We were curious as to how this band's unique sound came to be, and our guests captivated us with tales of their spontaneous creativity and the casual jam sessions that laid the foundation for their musical style. Whether sharing stories of early gigs at the Santa Cruz Surf Shop or reflecting on the dynamic shifts in the music industry, Geoff and Adam provide a heartfelt glimpse into the life of musicians who have rocked stages for a quarter of a century.

Listeners are in for a treat as we explore the rise of The Expendables alongside the evolution of the music world itself. From the early days of Napster and MySpace to the challenges and triumphs on tours like the Warped Tour, our conversation highlights the band's adaptability and resilience in a rapidly changing environment. Geoff and Adam reveal the essence of their music creation process, balancing the spontaneity of their beginnings with the maturity that comes with life's responsibilities. They share how personal experiences, especially the shift from youthful exuberance to family life, have influenced their music, adding depth and authenticity to their sound.

Finally, we take you to legendary venues like the Red Rocks Amphitheatre, where our guests recount breathtaking performances and unforgettable moments. We explore the intimate connections the band has with their music, playfully discussing which songs they'd "marry, f*&%, or kill," while delving into the personal significance behind fan favorites like "Bowl for Two" and "Sacrifice." Join us for this engaging episode that celebrates the band's enduring legacy and the shared joy of musical camaraderie and creativity that has defined The Expendables' incredible journey.

Imagine catching a massive wave that lands you in the Guinness Book of World Records. That's the life of Shawn Dollar, who shares his incredible journey from a young surfer to a big wave legend. With accolades like the XXL Awards, Shawn recounts the heart-pounding moments of riding giants at Mavericks and the remote Cortes Bank, detailing the thrill and anxiety charging monster waves. But this isn't just a tale of adrenaline; Shawn opens up about the internal tug-of-war between his passion for surfing and the responsibilities that come with it.

We navigate the highs and lows of big wave surfing, from achieving world records to the challenges of returning to everyday life. Santa Cruz and Half Moon Bay set the stage for this vibrant surfing culture, where legends inspire newcomers and a new generation of surfers like Luca Padua and John Mel prepare to make their mark. Shawn paints a vivid picture of the addictive nature of the sport and the difficult decision to step back after life-altering experiences. The episode takes a poignant turn as Shawn candidly shares his journey of healing from traumatic brain injuries, emphasizing the need for awareness and support for similar challenges.

Amidst the rush of the waves, Shawn introduces us to the world of mindfulness and art as tools for healing and personal peace. He discusses innovative approaches to brain recovery in extreme sports and his mission to change the narrative around mental health. Shawn hopes to inspire change and awareness through his website and an upcoming film project, underscoring the importance of finding balance in a technology-saturated world. This compelling episode blends adrenaline, community, healing, and artistic exploration, offering listeners a window into the life of a big-wave surfer with a profound story of resilience and passion.

What if one person could truly embody the spirit of a community? Join us as we celebrate the life and legacy of Santa Cruz legend Shawn "Barney" Barron, a surfer whose presence was as vibrant and lively as the waves he rode. With guests like renowned surf filmmaker Josh Pomer and multi-talented artist and musician Jason “Willz” Williams, we reflect on Barney's infectious energy and his unique ability to make everyone feel at home in their own skin. Discover how Pomer’s heartfelt film "Particle Fever" captures Barney's essence and the joy he brought to the surf community.

We take you on a nostalgic journey back to the days of Santa Cruz adventures, contrasting the freedom of our childhoods with the more supervised lives of today's youth. From mischievous escapades with Barney and his dog to the camaraderie of the local surf scene, we share stories that highlight the resilience and creativity fostered by such an upbringing. Learn how the local culture, shaped by individuals like Barney, left an indelible mark on us all, encouraging spontaneity and a sense of community.

As we prepare for the premiere of a surf movie in Barney's honor, the excitement is palpable. Hear about the creative journey behind his artistic expressions, from iconic wetsuit creations to tribute songs that capture his zest for life. We express our gratitude to the surf community for their unwavering support and reflect on the importance of sharing Barney's vibrant personality with the world. This episode is a heartfelt tribute to a beloved friend whose legacy continues to inspire and bring people together.