Brad Gerlach @waveki is one of surfing’s most dynamic and influential figures—a former world tour standout known for his explosive power, progressive style, and fearless approach to waves of consequence. After finishing runner-up to the world title in 1991, Gerr reinvented himself as a big-wave pioneer, tow-surfing trailblazer, and style icon. Beyond competition, he’s become a respected coach, mentor, and thinker in the art and performance of surfing. Whether charging Mavericks or dissecting the finer points of flow and form, Brad’s passion, intellect, and creativity continue to shape the next generation and redefine what mastery in surfing truly means.

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On this episode of Surf Stories, we’re joined by filmmaker and surfer Takuji Masuda, director of BUNKER77, which captured the wild, short-lived legend of Bunker Spreckels and Best Documentary - Feature (2017) at Florida Surf Film Festival. A lifelong student of surf history and culture, Takuji shares his story of emigrating from Japan to Canada and the U.S., making his mark and earning his spot at the Banzai Pipeline—stroking into bombs on a longboard, fully committed. If that phrase means anything to you as a listener, you’ll love his stories and journey as a filmmaker.

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Laird Hamilton @lairdhamilton is widely regarded as one of the most innovative and fearless watermen of our time. A legendary big-wave surfer, pioneer and innovator of tow-in and foil surfing, and lifelong ocean explorer, Laird has spent decades redefining what’s possible on the water. Beyond his groundbreaking achievements in surfing, he’s an entrepreneur, fitness innovator, and wellness advocate who inspires others to push limits and live with purpose. From riding record-breaking waves to developing performance training techniques, Laird continues to influence surf culture and human performance worldwide. Enjoy.

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Dr. Jason Old is a surfer, historian, and storyteller who’s spent decades chasing waves and uncovering the deeper stories behind them. With a PhD in Latin American history, he’s lived and surfed in Nicaragua, Peru, and Bali, researching how surf culture shapes local communities and economies. Jason also hosts The Surfing Historian podcast, where he dives into the history and culture of surfing around the world. In our conversation, we explore the rise of Nicaraguan surf, its connection to Sandinista history, and his new project, Waverii—linking surf travelers with locals to make surf trips more meaningful. Enjoy! @surfinghistorian

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Pro surfer and entrepreneur Holly Beck joins us to share her incredible journey — from competing on the world tour to building Surfing With Amigas, one of the most inspiring women’s surf camp communities in the world. Now expanding into family and men’s trips, Holly has perfected the ultimate surf getaway experience. We dive into surfing, travel, entrepreneurship, and creating a life fueled by passion, purpose, and adventure. If you love waves, wanderlust, and fearless reinvention, this episode is a must-listen!

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From the pool to the ocean, Scott Smith’s journey has been anything but ordinary. A former water polo player turned filmmaker, Scott built his career behind the lens with Body Glove and PADI, where his natural eye for action and storytelling translated seamlessly into surf cinematography and editing. His work has taken him around the globe. Scott’s close friendship and collaboration with the late Greg Browning—Momentum Generation standout, filmmaker, and creator of the beloved Drive Thru series—was central to the making of A Marble in the Jar. Enjoy this chat with Scott.

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Carrying the Florida flag, filmmaker and photographer Paul Prewitt captured unforgettable East Coast surf footage from 1985 to 1988—from West Palm Beach to New Hampshire and beyond—mesmerizing audiences with A+ setups and raw talent in Atlantic Crossing. After a successful career in film and television, Paul is now turning his focus to documenting the rich history of surf filmmaking and photography. In this episode, we explore pivotal moments from his creative journey, the evolution of surf media, and his latest passion project. It’s a conversation filled with insight, inspiration, and a deep love for surf culture and storytelling. Tune in and enjoy.

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Lakey Peterson is a professional surfer from Santa Barbara, California, known for her progressive aerial maneuvers and athletic approach to surfing. She began surfing at a young age and quickly rose through the ranks, winning multiple NSSA titles and becoming a force on the World Surf League (WSL) Championship Tour. Beyond her competitive achievements, Lakey is also an advocate for environmental causes and children's cancer research, and she's a team rider for 805 Beer, recently releasing a documentary about her journey called Making Waves.  Enjoy our chat with Lakey.

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Richard Yelland's Birth of the Endless Summer starring Dick Metz is a masterpiece. Cataloguing the inimitable journeyman's anecdotes, love affairs, and risky passages across the globe in the late fifties and beyond, Richard puts his documentary chops on display along with priceless photos and interviews with key players in what played a massive role in Bruce Brown's denouement in The Endless Summer. Listen in to how Richard found his way into the project and others. You can find said masterpiece on all major digital platforms. Enjoy.

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The birth of Wave Tools became an instant curiosity when Robert Helphand and Tony Gentile interviewed Lance Collins for a different project back in 2018. That interview ignited a documentary project seven years in the making called Shaping the Future. Robert and Tony detailed the engineering and design of new shapes and techniques, and brought to cinematic life the loud, aggressive logos and surfing, all heavily photographed on Echo Beach in Newport, CA. Enjoy our chat with these two top quality craftsmen.

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