n this episode of The Temple of Surf, we sit down with one of the most iconic and influential surfers of all time: Tom Carroll. A two-time world champion, Pipeline master, and a true pioneer of power surfing, Tom’s legacy goes far beyond contest wins. He redefined what it meant to charge waves with precision, grace, and raw determination, setting a standard that still echoes across the lineup today.

Our conversation with Tom is a deep dive into the mindset of a champion. He opens up about his legendary career, including the moment he chose principle over paycheck when boycotting South Africa during apartheid, a decision that cost him a world title shot but won him lasting respect. We revisit the unforgettable day in 1991 when he pulled into that impossibly deep snap under the lip at Pipeline, a maneuver that’s become part of surfing folklore.

But this episode isn’t just about trophies and highlight reels. Tom speaks candidly about the challenges he faced behind the scenes and the personal transformation that followed. His story is a powerful reminder that even the strongest among us carry battles we don’t always see, and that resilience isn’t just about taking off on heavy waves, it’s about confronting the ones within.

We also talk about what surfing means to him today. From riding giant waves in remote corners of the world to mentoring younger surfers and practicing mindfulness, Tom has continued to evolve while staying deeply connected to the ocean. His thoughts on fear, flow, and the spiritual connection with surfing will leave you inspired and grounded.

Whether you're a longtime fan or just discovering the roots of modern surfing, this episode is packed with insight, emotion, and timeless wisdom from one of the sport’s true legends.

So wax up your board, tune in, and paddle out with us as we explore the extraordinary life and fearless lines of Tom Carroll.