Surf Mastery - Surfing Tips and Wisdom for Lifelong Surfers

Former Surfer Magazine editor, lifelong surfer, and author Steve Hawk joins Michael Frampton for a conversation about the evolution of surfing, the hidden skills that make great surfers exceptional, and how our relationship with the ocean changes with age.

At 71, Steve has discovered that surfing isn't about catching the most waves or riding the smallest board. It's about understanding the ocean, making better decisions, and finding satisfaction in every session. Drawing on decades spent alongside some of the world's best surfers, he shares invaluable lessons that can help you improve your surfing, regardless of your age or ability.

In this episode, you'll discover:

• Why the ability to read waves, anticipate changing conditions, and position yourself in the pocket can make a bigger difference to your surfing than physical fitness or technical ability alone.

• Practical lessons Steve learned from surfing with legends like Shane Dorian and Dave Rastovich, including how to generate more speed, improve your turns, and avoid common mistakes that hold surfers back.

• How to adapt your equipment, expectations, and approach to surfing as you age so you can continue challenging yourself, catching great waves, and enjoying the ocean for decades to come.

Press play to discover how decades of surfing wisdom can help you catch better waves, surf with greater confidence, and deepen your connection with the ocean at any age.

Steve's website:

https://www.stevehawkauthor.com

Steve's book "Nearshore" https://www.stevehawkauthor.com/nearshore

Steve's other podcast appearances:

https://www.stevehawkauthor.com/press-podcasts

Surf Mastery:

https://surfmastery.com

The Surf Mastery Podcast:

For the passionate surfer - whether you're a weekend warrior, a surf dad, or an older surfer - this podcast is all about better surfing and deeper stoke. With expert surf coaching, surf training, and surfing tips, we'll help you catch more waves, refine your paddling technique, and perfect your pop up on a surfboard. From surf workouts to handling wipeouts, chasing bigger waves, and mastering surf technique, we're here to make sure you not only improve but truly enjoy surfing more - so you can get more out of every session and become a wiser surfer. Go from Beginner or intermediate Surfer to advanced

In this episode, two surf coaches and self-confessed surf nerds dive deep into the many different ways to become a better surfer. Joined by surfing paddling coach and swimming coach Rob Case, (https://www.surfingpaddling.com) we explore everything from the surprising lessons of bodysurfing to wave-reading strategies, barrel-riding confidence, vision and balance training, the importance of; swimming ability, truly understanding your local break, + much more.

To hear more from Rob Case check out episodes; 12, 91, and 126, of this podcast.

In this episode, you'll discover:

• How experimenting with different boards, bodysurfing, and alternative approaches to riding waves can improve your timing, wave-reading ability, and overall surfing technique.

• Why swimming confidence, vision and balance, and learning to stay composed during wipeouts and critical moments can make a significant difference to your surfing performance and reduce fear.

• How paying closer attention to tides, swell direction, bathymetry, and the subtle characteristics of your local break can help you anticipate waves, make better decisions, and consistently catch more quality waves.

Hit play to discover how two experienced surf coaches approach surfing improvement from every angle, and walk away with fresh ideas to sharpen your skills, deepen your ocean awareness, and get more out of every session.

Rob's website:. https://www.surfingpaddling.com

Rob's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/surfingpaddling/?hl=en

Surf Mastery: https://surfmastery.com

For at home paddling fitness and a $30 discount on the Surf Basis paddle trainer: https://surfbasis.com

The Surf Mastery Podcast:

For the passionate surfer - whether you're a weekend warrior, a surf dad, or an older surfer - this podcast is all about better surfing and deeper stoke. With expert surf coaching, surf training, and surfing tips, we'll help you catch more waves, refine your paddling technique, and perfect your pop up on a surfboard. From surf workouts to handling wipeouts, chasing bigger waves, and mastering surf technique, we're here to make sure you not only improve but truly enjoy surfing more - so you can get more out of every session and become a wiser surfer. Go from Beginner or intermediate Surfer to advanced

What if becoming a better surfer has less to do with technique, and more to do with how you handle fear, frustration, pressure, and the need to perform?

Surfing has a way of exposing what's happening between your ears. You can spend years improving your technique and still find yourself frustrated by slow progress, intimidated by bigger waves, comparing yourself to other surfers, or turning a bad session into a judgment about your ability.

In this episode, surf psychologist Lisa Davidsson explores the intersection of psychology, sport, and surfing. Lisa explains how shifting your relationship with performance can help you enjoy the ocean more, navigate fear more effectively, and keep progressing without making every session a test of your self-worth.

In this episode, you'll discover:

• How to shift your focus from outcomes you can't control to the process, habits, and actions you can control.

• How to interrupt frustration and overthinking in the lineup by reconnecting with your senses and bringing yourself back into the present moment.

• Why making room for fun, play, and pressure-free surf sessions can strengthen your motivation, confidence, and long-term relationship with surfing.

Press play to learn how to work with your mind, not against it, so you can handle fear and frustration, enjoy the process of improving, and experience more of what surfing has to offer.

https://thesurfpsychologist.com

https://www.instagram.com/thesurfpsychologist/

Surf Mastery Website:

https://surfmastery.com

The Surf Mastery Podcast:

For the passionate surfer - whether you're a weekend warrior, a surf dad, or an older surfer - this podcast is all about better surfing and deeper stoke. With expert surf coaching, surf training, and surfing tips, we'll help you catch more waves, refine your paddling technique, and perfect your pop up on a surfboard. From surf workouts to handling wipeouts, chasing bigger waves, and mastering surf technique, we're here to make sure you not only improve but truly enjoy surfing more - so you can get more out of every session and become a wiser surfer. Go from Beginner or intermediate Surfer to advanced

What if catching more waves as a beginner had less to do with paddling harder, and more to do with timing and wave selection?

Many beginner surfers waste energy chasing every patch of whitewater, only to miss waves, struggle to stand up, and finish each session feeling frustrated. In this episode, surf coach Michael Frampton explains a simpler approach that helps you conserve energy, choose better waves, and develop skills that will support your surfing for years to come.

You'll discover:

• How to catch whitewater waves without paddling by using a simple, well-timed movement
• What separates strong, smooth whitewater waves from weak, turbulent ones
• How timing, ocean awareness, and efficient habits can help you stand up more often and learn faster

Play the episode to start catching better waves with less effort and build the foundational skills every confident surfer needs.

To download the free PDF: "The Intelligent Beginners Guide to Surfing" visit

https://surfmastery.com

or click this link:

https://mailchi.mp/surfmastery/the-intelligent-beginners-guide-to-surfing

The Surf Mastery Podcast:

For the passionate surfer - whether you're a weekend warrior, a surf dad, or an older surfer - this podcast is all about better surfing and deeper stoke. With expert surf coaching, surf training, and surfing tips, we'll help you catch more waves, refine your paddling technique, and perfect your pop up on a surfboard. From surf workouts to handling wipeouts, chasing bigger waves, and mastering surf technique, we're here to make sure you not only improve but truly enjoy surfing more - so you can get more out of every session and become a wiser surfer. Go from Beginner or intermediate Surfer to advanced

What if the biggest difference between an average surfer and a great surfer isn't how they ride waves - but how they see them?

After nearly five decades in the ocean, Shane Dorian has learned that surfing mastery isn't built on athleticism alone. It's built on observation, patience, awareness, and thousands of hours spent studying the ocean.

In this conversation, Shane pulls back the curtain on the mindset that allowed him to become one of the world's most respected surfers. From learning to read subtle changes in swell direction and positioning to understanding crowd flow, reefs, tides, and wave behavior, he explains how true ocean knowledge is earned through relentless curiosity and attention to detail.

But this episode is about far more than surfing.

It's about how deep observation becomes intuition. How experience becomes wisdom. How a lifelong pursuit evolves from chasing performance into finding meaning, connection, health, family, and joy.

From world titles and giant waves to coaching elite surfers, recovering from serious injury, raising surfing children, and preparing his body for decades more time in the water, Shane shares the lessons that only come from a lifetime of paying attention.

In this episode, you'll discover:

• Why reading the ocean is one of the most important, and least understood - skills in surfing, and how Shane developed that ability through decades of observation.
• How positioning, patience, awareness, and studying experienced surfers can dramatically accelerate your progression in the water.
• What surfing has taught Shane about resilience, family, aging, purpose, and creating a life that remains rich with adventure long after your competitive years are over.

Press play to learn how one of surfing's most thoughtful minds developed a lifetime of ocean wisdom, and how those lessons can transform the way you approach surfing, learning, and life itself.

Shanes' Website:

https://doriancoreperformance.com

For more surfing tips:

https://surfmastery.com

To view and purchace the Surf Basis Paddle trainer:

https://surfbasis.com

For $30 off use Discount code: SURFMASTERY

The Surf Mastery Podcast:

For the passionate surfer - whether you're a weekend warrior, a surf dad, or an older surfer - this podcast is all about better surfing and deeper stoke. With expert surf coaching, surf training, and surfing tips, we'll help you catch more waves, refine your paddling technique, and perfect your pop up on a surfboard. From surf workouts to handling wipeouts, chasing bigger waves, and mastering surf technique, we're here to make sure you not only improve but truly enjoy surfing more - so you can get more out of every session and become a wiser surfer. Go from Beginner or intermediate Surfer to advanced

What if the key to recovering from injury and surfing well into your 80s isn't resting more… but learning how to "play" better?

Orthopedic surgeon and sports medicine pioneer Dr. Kevin Stone explains why movement, balance, community, and even fun itself may be some of the most important ingredients in healing. From biologic joint repair and stem-cell science to the psychology of staying present in the water, this conversation explores how athletes can come back stronger instead of slowly breaking down.

In this episode, you'll discover:

• Why turning fitness into "play" instead of "work" can dramatically improve your consistency, mindset, and long-term health.
• The cutting-edge advancements in biologic joint repair, PRP therapies, robotic surgery, and recovery techniques that are helping athletes avoid unnecessary surgeries and heal faster.
• How balance, presence, and mental focus reduce injuries, and why distraction may be one of the biggest hidden causes of wipeouts and breakdowns as we age.

Press play now to learn how to recover smarter, stay active longer, and keep doing the sport you love for the rest of your life.

https://www.stoneclinic.com

Play Forever Book:

https://a.co/d/06sF8zYm

https://surfmastery.com

The Surf Mastery Podcast:

For the passionate surfer - whether you're a weekend warrior, a surf dad, or an older surfer - this podcast is all about better surfing and deeper stoke. With expert surf coaching, surf training, and surfing tips, we'll help you catch more waves, refine your paddling technique, and perfect your pop up on a surfboard. From surf workouts to handling wipeouts, chasing bigger waves, and mastering surf technique, we're here to make sure you not only improve but truly enjoy surfing more - so you can get more out of every session and become a wiser surfer. Go from Beginner or intermediate Surfer to advanced

What if becoming a better surfer isn't about catching more waves - but about thinking differently in the water?

In this episode, Coach Chris from The Surf Continuum unpacks the deeper layers of surfing that often go unnoticed: the philosophy behind progression, the importance of surf culture and etiquette, and how maturity in the water can transform your entire experience. If you've ever felt frustrated, stuck, or disconnected from your surfing, this conversation offers a refreshing, thoughtful perspective.

• Gain insight into how mastering fundamentals and simplifying your approach leads to true, lasting progression
• Learn how surf culture, respect in the lineup, and ethical decision-making shape not just your surfing, but your identity as a surfer
• Discover how breaking surfing down into simple, learnable fundamentals removes overwhelm and builds real skill
• How shifting from performance-driven surfing to a more present, aware, and intentional approach can deepen your enjoyment and longevity in the sport

Press play to explore a more thoughtful, grounded approach to surfing, and start evolving not just as a surfer, but as a human in the water.

https://thesurfcontinuum.com

https://www.instagram.com/thesurfcontinuum/

https://podcasts.apple.com/nz/podcast/kookcast-surf-education/id1387032167

To see and purchase the Surf Basis Paddle Trainer:

www.surfbasis.com

For $30 off use Discount code: SURFMASTERY

The Surf Mastery Podcast:

For the passionate surfer - whether you're a weekend warrior, a surf dad, or an older surfer - this podcast is all about better surfing and deeper stoke. With expert surf coaching, surf training, and surfing tips, we'll help you catch more waves, refine your paddling technique, and perfect your pop up on a surfboard. From surf workouts to handling wipeouts, chasing bigger waves, and mastering surf technique, we're here to make sure you not only improve but truly enjoy surfing more - so you can get more out of every session and become a wiser surfer. Go from Beginner or intermediate Surfer to advanced

www.surfmastery.com

What would you do if one wild surf story could change how you travel, train, and survive in the ocean?

Michael talks with author James Russell about the real spark behind his podcast; Mad Surf Stories - those unforgettable car park conversations where local surfers share the kind of stories that never make the mainstream. From near-death experiences and ocean rescues to fear, aging, flow state, and the lessons hidden inside heavy surf moments, this conversation speaks to anyone who loves the ocean and wants to surf smarter, safer, and longer.

You'll hear how storytelling preserves local surf lore, why surfers should take safety gear more seriously, and what happens when experience, fear, and age all collide in the lineup. James also shares insights from his own surfing life, his writing, and the deeper emotional threads that run through survival stories at sea.

Discover why real surf stories are often the best source of practical wisdom and hard-earned safety lessons You'll learn how fear, preparation, and mindset shape performance in the water, especially as surfers get older. You'll get a deeper appreciation for the psychology, risk, and addictive beauty of surfing and surf culture.

Press play to hear the stories, lessons, and mindset shifts that could help you surf with more awareness, confidence, and respect for the ocean.

James' Podcast "Mad Surf Stories" -

https://podcasts.apple.com/nz/podcast/mad-surf-stories-podcast/id1861306952

https://open.spotify.com/show/4tHYvt9btBdGgB5rwKv0jv?si=e69d777c95bf46cb

https://youtube.com/@madsurfstories?si=BH8FCHs6D_4RADAp

James' website:

https://dragonbrothersbooks.com

Surf Mastery - https://surfmastery.com

The Surf Mastery Podcast:

For the passionate surfer - whether you're a weekend warrior, a surf dad, or an older surfer - this podcast is all about better surfing and deeper stoke. With expert surf coaching, surf training, and surfing tips, we'll help you catch more waves, refine your paddling technique, and perfect your pop up on a surfboard. From surf workouts to handling wipeouts, chasing bigger waves, and mastering surf technique, we're here to make sure you not only improve but truly enjoy surfing more - so you can get more out of every session and become a wiser surfer. Go from Beginner or intermediate Surfer to advanced

https://surfmastery.com/barrel-mastery-academy

What if the reason you can't come out of the barrel has nothing to do with courage or experience, and everything to do with your brain?

Many surfers believe that getting barreled is purely about skill, timing, or bravery. But if you've ever felt disoriented inside the tube, struggled to hold your line, or mysteriously fallen when the exit was right there, the real issue might be neurological. In this episode of the Surf Mastery Podcast, Michael Frampton reveals how vision, balance, and body awareness directly affect your ability to stay stable in the barrel, and why training your brain could transform your surfing.

• Discover why disorientation in the barrel is often a neurological challenge, not a lack of surfing ability.

• Learn practical tube riding techniques that help you stay balanced, compact, and focused on the exit.

• Understand how improving your vision, balance, and proprioception can elevate every aspect of your surfing.

Press play to learn the surprising brain-based insights and practical tips that could finally help you ride out of the barrel.

www.surfmastery.com

The Surf Mastery Podcast:

For the passionate surfer - whether you're a weekend warrior, a surf dad, or an older surfer - this podcast is all about better surfing and deeper stoke. With expert surf coaching, surf training, and surfing tips, we'll help you catch more waves, refine your paddling technique, and perfect your pop up on a surfboard. From surf workouts to handling wipeouts, chasing bigger waves, and mastering surf technique, we're here to make sure you not only improve but truly enjoy surfing more - so you can get more out of every session and become a wiser surfer. Go from Beginner or intermediate Surfer to advanced

What happens when a former White House speechwriter, who's written for presidents and packed auditoriums, decides to humble himself in a cold New Jersey lineup at 35?

David Litt isn't your typical surf author. He joined the Obama White House at just 24 and became one of the youngest senior presidential speechwriters in history, crafting remarks on healthcare, climate change, and even comedy for the Correspondents' Dinner. After publishing Thanks, Obama and Democracy in One Book or Less, he turned his attention to something far less controllable than politics: surfing.

In this episode, David brings a writer's precision to the chaos of learning to surf as an adult, articulating the fear of hold-downs, the shame of kook moments, the obsession with progression, and the addictive pull of those brief, otherworldly flashes of flow. It's a refreshing take for surfers: not from a prodigy, not from a lifelong local, but from someone who can actually put words to what most of us only feel.

• A deeper understanding of why surfing feels "more than a sport," and how chasing flow reshapes your mindset in and out of the water.

• Practical perspective on fear, embarrassment, and adult progression, especially if you didn't grow up in the ocean.

• A renewed appreciation for the lineup as neutral ground, where politics, profession, and identity fall away, and only waves (and humility) matter.

Hit play for a thoughtful, funny, and surprisingly relatable conversation that will leave you seeing your own surfing journey, and your next paddle out, in a whole new light.

https://www.davidlittbooks.com

www.surfmastery.com

Barrel Mastery Academy: https://surfmastery.com/barrel-mastery-academy

The Surf Mastery Podcast:

For the passionate surfer - whether you're a weekend warrior, a surf dad, or an older surfer - this podcast is all about better surfing and deeper stoke. With expert surf coaching, surf training, and surfing tips, we'll help you catch more waves, refine your paddling technique, and perfect your pop up on a surfboard. From surf workouts to handling wipeouts, chasing bigger waves, and mastering surf technique, we're here to make sure you not only improve but truly enjoy surfing more - so you can get more out of every session and become a wiser surfer. Go from Beginner or intermediate Surfer to advanced