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Today, we have a true legend of the big-wave scene and the heart of Santa Cruz surfing, Richard Schmidt @richardschmidtsurfschool, joining us at his home in the picturesque coastal town of Santa Cruz, California.

Richard's love for the ocean and the thrill of riding massive waves have defined his life's journey. While he may be known as a surfing legend today, Richard's early days were all about chasing waves and the sheer joy of it. His primary motivation for competing in surf contests was to gain access to some of the most iconic breaks in the world, like Pipeline, Sunset Beach, and Haleiwa, with only a handful of fellow surfers out in the lineup.

In this episode, Richard takes us on a nostalgic ride through the history of Santa Cruz surfing. He fondly recalls the days when he braved the frigid waters of Northern California without the comfort of a wetsuit. As he honed his skills and passion for the sport, he eventually acquired a surfboard and wetsuit, opening up a whole new world of possibilities, especially at the famed surf spot "The Lane."

As Richard's expertise and daring spirit grew, so did his wanderlust. He embarked on epic journeys around the globe in search of colossal waves. From the thundering tubes of Puerto Escondido to the legendary breaks of Hawaii, Richard shares his remarkable adventures along the way.

But Richard's story doesn't end in the water. Today, he channels his passion for surfing into making a difference in the lives of children and adults. He is the driving force behind the Richard Schmidt Surf School in Santa Cruz, where he shares his love for the ocean and helps others discover the magic of riding waves.

Additionally, Richard is deeply involved with the non-profit organization First Descents @first_descents, which provides life-changing adventures for young adults facing health challenges. Through his work with First Descents, he continues to inspire and empower individuals to overcome obstacles and experience the healing power of nature and surfing.

Join us as we dive into the incredible journey of Richard Schmidt, a big-wave legend, a Santa Cruz icon, and a true advocate for the transformative power of surfing. This episode promises insights, inspiration, and a profound love for the ocean that's nothing short of infectious. 

Check out First Descents Website https://firstdescents.org/

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