On this episode of the Swell Season Surf Podcast, we welcome Claudia Lebenthal, a force in visual storytelling and editorial design, to discuss her illustrious career and her love for both sports and fashion. Claudia shares her journey from growing up in New York City to cultivating a deep passion for ocean sports, ultimately leading to her latest project, 'Surfer Stories.' This book pairs the world's greatest surfers with acclaimed storytellers, offering a unique and intimate glimpse into their lives. We dive into her experiences, from her first surf at San Onofre to her editorial roles at Allure and Women's Sports & Fitness, and her interactions with icons like Randy Hild and Rell Sun. We explore the human stories behind the surfers, touching on themes of perseverance, competitiveness, and the seamless blend of art, culture, and athleticism. We hope you enjoy… 

You can follow Claudia Lebenthal on Instagram @styleofsport

You can purchase her book here: https://www.amazon.com/Surfer-Stories-Writers-Greatest-Surfers/dp/B0D7TN788C

And find her Style of Sport here: www.styleofsport.com

The Swell Season Surf Podcast is recorded by The NewsStand Studio at Rockefeller Center in the heart of Manhattan and is distributed by The Swell Season Surf Radio Network.

For more information, you can follow @swellseasonsurfradio on Instagram or go to our website: www.swellseasonsurf.com 

Music: 
Artist: The Untouchables
Song: Free Yourself
Album: Wild Child
00:00 Introduction to Swell Season Podcast
01:18 Meet Claudia Leventhal: A Visual Storyteller
01:56 Claudia's Athletic Journey
03:26 Growing Up in New York City
04:21 Discovering a Love for Water Sports
04:55 College Sports and Water Polo
06:41 From Fire Island to Surfing
08:07 Sneakerhead Origins
10:12 The Surfing Revelation
11:52 Roxy and the Surf Culture
20:56 Writing 'Surfer Stories'
25:58 The Human Side of Surfing
43:53 The Unique Nature of Surfing
45:32 Surfers' Distinct Behaviors and Traits
47:14 Action Sports and Extreme Athletes
47:35 Universal Themes in Surfing
48:52 Diversity and Surf History
49:23 Challenges in Surf Journalism
50:23 The Mystique of Tom Curren
55:35 Surf Photography and Iconic Figures
01:10:22 The Mythology of Surfing
01:13:07 Future of Surf Photography
01:15:53 Turning the Book into a TV Show
01:21:26 Final Thoughts and Shameless Plugs

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/swell-season-surf-radio--3483504/support.

On this episode of the Swell Season Surf Podcast, we talk  with Brooklyn-based artist and sign painter Jon Bocksel. With nearly two decades of experience, Jon's work artfully combines history, typography, and his love for hand-lettered signs. We discuss Jon's meticulous creative process, the timeless craft of hand-painted signage, the evolution of written language, and how these elements intersect with surf culture and everyday spaces. Jon shares insights into his artistic journey, his background in printmaking, and the influence of surfing and skating on his work. It’s a fascinating conversation on creativity, craft, and culture.  We hope you enjoy… 

You can follow Jon Bocksel on Instagram @jonbocksel
Or check out his work at https://jonbocksel.info/ 

The Swell Season Surf Podcast is recorded by The NewsStand Studio at Rockefeller Center in the heart of Manhattan and is distributed by The Swell Season Surf Radio Network.

For more information, you can follow @swellseasonsurfradio on Instagram or go to our website: www.swellseasonsurf.com 

Music: 
Artist: Television Personalities
Song: Diary of a Young Man
Album: And Don’t the Kids Just Love it

00:00 Introduction to the Swell Season Surf Podcast
01:10 Meet John Boxell: The Artist Behind the Signs
01:59 John's Creative Process and Inspirations0
2:31 The Intersection of Surfing and Art
03:24 John's Artistic Journey and Influences
04:49 The Challenges and Rewards of Hand Lettering
09:19 From Skating to Surfing: John's Evolution
12:56 The Path to Becoming a Professional Artist
27:24 The Art of Sign Making
32:59 Balancing Art and Life
40:13 The Unpredictable Nature of Wave Pools
40:58 The Art of Sign Making
42:40 Glass Gilding Explained
44:10 The Challenges of Gold Leaf Work
45:10 Maintaining Focus in a Distracted World
45:40 From Skating to Surfing
46:15 The Evolution of Surfing and Sailing
47:19 Creating Films and the Influence of Limitations
51:53 The Philosophy of Limitations in Art and Surfing
53:32 Competitive Surfing and Personal Preferences
56:16 The Craft of Hand-Painted Signs
57:23 The Intersection of Art and Performance
01:04:06 The Future of Handcrafted Work in a Digital Age
01:05:26 Shaping Surfboards and the Value of Flex
01:09:24 The Joy of Riding Different Surfboards
01:12:28 Exciting Residency at the Albers Foundation
01:14:37 Conclusion and Contact Information


Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/swell-season-surf-radio--3483504/support.

On this episode of the Swell Season Surf Podcast, host Tyler Breuer discusses 'The Inevitable Return,' a short documentary film with filmmaker Zachary Zezima and Kumeyaay surfer Shuuluk Leo-Retz. The film explores the entanglement of military technology, atomic testing, and contemporary surfing on the militarized beaches of San Diego. Our conversation highlights Shuuluk’s journey in reclaiming surfing as a practice of joy and connection on his indigenous land. We preview the 'Shredding: A New Lens in Surf Filmmaking' program, which challenges outdated stereotypes in surf culture and showcases diverse voices from around the world.

To Learn more about Shredding: A New Lens in Surf filmmaker go check out:https://digitalgym.org/movies/shredding-a-new-lens-in-surf-filmmaking/ 

To follow the film on Instagram go to: @the_inevitable_return.movie

The Swell Season Surf Podcast is recorded by The NewsStand Studio at Rockefeller Center in the heart of Manhattan and is distributed by The Swell Season Surf Radio Network. 

For more information, you can follow @swellseasonsurfradio on Instagram or go to our website: www.swellseasonsurf.com 

Music: 
Artist: Ambulance LTD
Song: Young Urban
Album: Ambulance LTD


00:00 Introduction to Swell Season Surf Podcast
02:25 Highlighting 'Inevitable Return' Documentary
02:58 Shredding: A New Lens in Surf Filmmaking
03:51 Welcoming Zachary Zema and Shalu Ette
04:52 Discussing the Film's Intent and Background
08:02 Shalu's Surfing Journey and Cultural Connection
10:19 Walter Monk's Influence and Controversial Quote
17:31 Redemption and Reflection in Surf Culture
23:48 Growing Up Surfing and Cultural Heritage
30:19 Discussing Mom's Background and Influence
31:40 Connection to Hawaiian Culture
32:51 Indigenous Cultures and Surfing
35:17 Military Influence on Surfing
36:24 Bikini Atoll and Nuclear Testing
39:51 Surfing and Colonialism
45:27 Surf Film Festival and Its Message
49:09 Upcoming Screenings and Final Thoughts




Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/swell-season-surf-radio--3483504/support.

On this episode of the Swell Season Surf Podcast, we sit down with Rabbi Chel Mendell, a queer gender expansive Jew from the San Francisco Bay Area. Rabbi Chel, (they/them) is the founder and creative director of the Tzimtzum community, located on the unceded territory of the Awaswas-speaking Uypi Tribe. Chel is dedicated to reimagining Jewish community through creative ritual and envisioning how Judaism can evolve for the future. They are a curator of alternative Jewish community spaces. They received smicha from the Academy for Jewish Religion CA and an interdisciplinary MFA from Sierra Nevada University. They can be found at the ocean’s edge checking the surf or making pottery in their free time. 

We discuss their journey in reimagining the Jewish community landscape through creative Jewish practices and delve into the intersection of religion, spirituality, and surfing, which is particularly explored in their film 'On the Water I Disappear,' which will be featured at the 'Shredding: A New Lens in Surf Filmmaking' festival. Our conversation covers their rabbinic thesis on water, surfing, and God, the challenges and joys of being a queer, trans rabbi, and the importance of inclusivity and social justice in their work. Tune in for an insightful discussion blending faith, activism, and the ocean.


To Learn more about Shredding: A New Lens in Surf filmmaker go check out:https://digitalgym.org/movies/shredding-a-new-lens-in-surf-filmmaking/ 

To Learn more about Rabbi Chel’s TzimTzum Collective, you can go check out: https://www.tzimtzumcommunity.com/ 

To follow Rabbi Chel on Instagram go to: @notnotyourrabbi 

The Swell Season Surf Podcast is recorded by The NewsStand Studio at Rockefeller Center in the heart of Manhattan and is distributed by The Swell Season Surf Radio Network. 

For more information, you can follow @swellseasonsurfradio on Instagram or go to our website: www.swellseasonsurf.com 

Music: 
Artist: Silver Jews
Song: The Wild Kindness
Album: American Water

00:00 Introduction to the Swell Season Surf Podcast
01:14 Meet Rabbi Chel Mendell
01:58 On the Water I Disappear: A Film Overview
03:59 Exploring Surfing and Spirituality
06:36 The Intersection of Surfing and Shabbat
13:20 Chel's Journey: From Skateboarding to Surfing
18:56 Researching the Thesis on Surfing and Judaism
24:20 Creating Inclusive Jewish Spaces
9:37 The Jedi Program and Social Justice
44:41 The Role and Responsibilities of a Rabbi
45:41 Teaching and Leading in the Jewish Community
46:54 Personal Reflections and Community Engagement
48:11 The Impact of October 7th and Jewish-Palestinian Relations
56:20 Navigating Complex Conversations and Activism
01:01:50 The Journey to Anti-Zionism
01:13:27 Building Inclusive Jewish Communities
01:16:03 Surfing, Filmmaking, and Community Building
01:18:50 Final Thoughts and Farewell

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/swell-season-surf-radio--3483504/support.

On this episode of the Swell Season Surf Podcast, we delve into pressing environmental issues with Dr. Chad Nelson, CEO of the Surfrider Foundation. We explore the impacts of Donald Trump's administration on environmental protections and the urgent challenges faced by organizations like Surfrider. Dr. Nelson, who has been an ocean advocate for over 25 years, discusses the rollback of policies that safeguard our oceans, beaches, and climate, and what individuals can do to counter these changes. The conversation also covers recent legal battles, local and national victories in environmental conservation, and the importance of civic engagement in protecting our coastlines. Tune in to learn how everyday people, surfers, and beachgoers can make a difference.

To learn more about how you can support the Surfrider Foundation go to www.surfrider.org and become a member. 

You can follow Surfrider on Instagram @surfrider or @surfridernyc or @surfridermidatlantic
The Swell Season Surf Podcast is recorded by The NewsStand Studio at Rockefeller Center in the heart of Manhattan and is distributed by The Swell Season Surf Radio Network. For more information, you can follow @swellseasonsurfradio on Instagram or go to our website: www.swellseasonsurf.com 

Music: 
Artist: Tom Curren’s Ocean Surf Aces
Song: Sand Gropers
Album: Ocean Surf Aces

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome
01:12 Impact of Trump Administration on Environmental Policies
01:55 Challenges Faced by Surf Rider Foundation
02:42 Political Climate and Government Dynamics
05:28 Supreme Court Rulings and Legal Implications
08:37 Civic Participation and Voter Accountability
10:28 Misinformation and Advocacy Strategies
16:55 Offshore Drilling and Environmental Battles
27:00 Local Wins and Grassroots Movements
36:05 The Evolution of Weather Forecasting
36:46 The Importance of NOAA and Coastal Management
39:33 The Role of the EPA and Environmental Protection
40:41 FEMA and Disaster Relief43:50 Political Divisiveness and Public Lands
46:50 Civic Engagement and Surf Rider's Mission
55:43 Challenges in Environmental Lawsuits
59:16 The Surf Community's Role in Environmental Activism
01:03:12 Innovative Ideas for Surf Rider
01:06:01 The Value of Community in Surfing
01:08:40 Conclusion and Call to Action

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/swell-season-surf-radio--3483504/support.

In late May, Costa Rican police arrived in central Pavones at 4 a.m.—dressed in body armor, rifles in hand, and gas masks on—to escort demolition crews. Their mission: tear down local businesses. Residents, caught off guard, had to scramble just to salvage food and goods from inside the buildings. Shockingly, the local government of Golfito appears to be backing developers and demolition teams over the very citizens they were elected to serve.At the heart of the issue is a controversial slate of proposed luxury real estate developments. These projects threaten to reshape Pavones—impacting the environment, limiting beach access, and displacing local, family-run businesses.

On this episode of the Swell Season Surf Podcast, we are joined by Walter Brenes, a dedicated environmental lawyer standing alongside the local community against aggressive real estate developments. Walter shares the ongoing battle to protect Pavones' unique culture, environment, and heritage from gentrification and unlawful land concessions. We discover the historical context, current challenges, and the legal fight to save one of the world's most treasured surf breaks. This conversation explores the broader implications of unchecked development and the erosion of local communities worldwide. Tune in to learn how you can support Pavones and join the resistance. Don't miss this critical discussion on preserving the soul of Pavones.

To learn more about how you can support the community of Pavones here are a list of resources: https://www.gofundme.com/f/save-pavones-costa-rica-protect-our-communityhttps://www.savethewaves.org/endangered-waves-past-site-pavones-costa-rica/

The Swell Season Surf Podcast is recorded by The NewsStand Studio at Rockefeller Center in the heart of Manhattan and is distributed by The Swell Season Surf Radio Network. 

For more information, you can follow @swellseasonsurfradio on Instagram or go to our website: www.swellseasonsurf.com 

Music:
Artist: Malpais
Song: Malpais
Album: Uno

00:00 Introduction to the Swell Season Surf Podcast
01:53 The Controversial Real Estate Developments in Pavona
03:21 Interview with Walter Breez: Defending Costa Rican Communities
04:28 The Impact of Gentrification in Costa Rica
04:53 The Surge of Foreign Investments Post-COVID
09:52 The Cultural and Environmental Significance of Pavona
22:53 The Role of Local Government and Corruption
27:09 The Fight Against Unchecked Development
41:14 Costa Rica's Environmental Wealth
42:03 Surf Culture and Respect
43:06 Impact of Surf Retreats
46:26 Fighting for Local Communities
48:16 Challenges of Tourism and Development
51:13 Legal Battles and Community Support
55:44 Cultural Preservation and Resistance
58:06 The Role of Influencers and Expats
01:01:39 Privatization and Local Resistance
01:04:19 Personal Sacrifices and Community Defense
01:05:45 Call to Action and Support

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/swell-season-surf-radio--3483504/support.

On this episode of the Swell Season Surf Podcast, we ‘talk story’ with Chris Gentile, the proprietor of Pilgrim Surf + Supply in Williamsburg, Brooklyn. We dive into Chris' diverse background in woodworking, photography, art, and fashion. We also cover Pilgrim Surf + Supply's upcoming Shapers Residency program featuring renowned shapers like Malcolm Campbell, Christian Beamish, and Rachel Lord. Chris opens up about the cultural and communal aspects of surfing, his approach to shaping boards, and the journey of founding one of the most influential surf shops in New York. We explore some of the highlights and evolution of Pilgrim Surf + Supply, the challenges and rewards of running a surf shop, and the importance of creating valuable and long-lasting products. There are a lot of hilarious anecdotes from years past and looking toward the future. If you surf in NY, this is requisite listening… Enjoy. 

Go Check out Pilgrims latest and greatest at: https://pilgrimsurfsupply.com/ You can Follow them on Instagram at @pilgrimsurfsupply

The Swell Season Surf Podcast is recorded by The NewsStand Studio at Rockefeller Center in the heart of Manhattan and is distributed by The Swell Season Surf Radio Network. 

For more information, you can follow @swellseasonsurfradio on Instagram or go to our website: www.swellseasonsurf.com 

Music: 
Artist: Minute Men
Song: Shit From an Old Notebook
Album: Double Nickels on the Dime

00:00 Introduction and Guest Overview
02:41 Chris Genteel's Surf Etiquette
04:57 Pilgrim Surf's Shaping Residency Program
09:38 The Art and Culture of Surfboard Shaping
29:56 Challenges and Rewards of Running a Surf Shop
37:06 Wearing Military-Inspired Fashion
37:56 The Relevance of Outdoor Gear in Urban Life
40:27 The Importance of Good Employees
46:20 Management Style and Employee Relations
50:23 Working with Family in Business
55:24 Unexpected Success in Japan
01:04:55 The Evolution of Pilgrim
01:08:30 Surf Shop Beginnings: Challenges and Surprises
01:08:58 The Birth of a Surf Community 
01:09:53 The Creative Journey: From Art to Surfboards
01:10:51 The Vibrant Williamsburg Art Scene
01:11:40 The Need for a Core Surf Shop in NYC
01:13:49 Opening the Shop: Community and Collaborations
01:16:44 Memorable Events and Unexpected Visitors
01:24:42 Shaping Surfboards: An Artistic Perspective
01:29:37 Exciting New Projects and Future Plans
01:33:39 Final Thoughts and Farewell

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/swell-season-surf-radio--3483504/support.

On this episode of the Swell Season Surf Podcast, we do a deep dive with legendary surfer and surf historian Sam George. Known as one of the most traveled surfers in history and former executive editor of Surfer Magazine, Sam shares his incredible insights and stories from a lifetime dedicated to surfing. We discuss Sam's latest book, 'Child of Storms,' his influence on surf culture, his relationships with icons like Tom Curren and Laird Hamilton, and the enduring mystique of surfing. This is a rich conversation that covers the evolution of surfboards, the joys of diverse surf cultures, and the challenges and rewards of living a surfing life. Don't miss this engaging episode filled with history and legendary tales from the world of surfing.

To Find out more about Child of Storms, A Surfing Memoir , you can find it here: https://www.diangelopublications.com/shop/p/child-of-storms 

You can Follow Sam George on Instagram at: @samgeorgesurf

The Swell Season Surf Podcast is recorded by The NewsStand Studio at Rockefeller Center in the heart of Manhattan and is distributed by The Swell Season Surf Radio Network. 
For more information, you can follow @swellseasonsurfradio on Instagram or go to our website: www.swellseasonsurf.com 

Music: 
Artist: Pablo Cruise
Song: Zero to Sixty in Five
Album: 20th Century Masters - The Millennium Collection: Best of Pablo Cruise

00:00 Introduction to the Swell Season Surf Podcast
02:09 Meet the Legendary Sam George
03:03 Sam George's Surfing Adventures
04:14 The Surfing Lifestyle and Culture
07:28 Surfing's Impact on Personal Lives
10:46 The Evolution of Surf Culture
16:16 Hollywood's Take on Surfing
21:02 Sam George's Memoir and Personal Reflections
45:54 The Cannes Connection46:27 Surfing in Cinema
47:01 Interview with Steven Spielberg
49:19 The Mythology of Surfing
54:29 Surfing with Naked Villagers
58:30 Balancing Surfing and Relationships
01:11:14 Brotherly Bonds and Surfing
01:17:07 Matt's Navy SEAL Ambition
01:21:11 Tom Curran: A Surfing Legend
01:26:54 Reflecting on a Surfing Legend
01:28:31 Memorable Surfing Stories
01:29:24 The Evolution of Surfboards
01:34:32 Travel Adventures and Advertorials
01:40:55 Staying Positive in Surfing
01:55:57 The Future of Surfing
02:00:43 Conclusion and Farewell

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/swell-season-surf-radio--3483504/support.

On this episode of the  Swell Season Surf Podcast we meet Alistair Thompson, the author of 'A Surfer's Guide to Enlightenment’, a beautiful and reflective book that blends surfing, spirituality, and self-discovery. It’s part memoir, part philosophy, and full of lessons drawn straight from the ocean. Alistair shares his journey from a life of 'monotonous discomfort' to one enriched by surfing, discussing themes of fear, ego, love, forgiveness, and faith. In his book, he explores everything from fear and ego to love, forgiveness, and faith—all through the lens of the sea. Whether you’re a surfer or not, this conversation is about what it means to start, to fall, to get back up, and to find your wave—whatever that might be. It’s an ode to those seeking self-discovery and meaning in their lives. We hope you enjoy… 

To Find out more about A Surfer’s Guide to Enlightenment, you can find it here: www.surfersguide.alastairthompson.com

The Swell Season Surf Podcast is recorded by The NewsStand Studio at Rockefeller Center in the heart of Manhattan and is distributed by The Swell Season Surf Radio Network. 

For more information, you can follow @swellseasonsurfradio on Instagram or go to our website: www.swellseasonsurf.com 

Music:
Artist: Rufus Wainwright
Song: Across The Universe
Album: I am Sam Soundtrack

00:00 Introduction to the Swell Season Surf Podcast
01:21 Meet Alistair Thompson: Author and Surfer
02:44 Exploring Enlightenment Through Surfing
04:23 The Journey to Self-Discovery
10:32 From Monotonous Life to Surfing Adventure
15:47 Radical Lifestyle Change and Surfing
19:29 Surfing as a Mirror to Life
26:18 The Impact of Surfing on Relationships
32:12 Lessons from the Ocean
33:26 Reflecting on Life Before and After Surfing
34:30 The Turning Point: Choosing Surfing
35:59 Life Changes and New Adventures
38:39 Finding Your Passion and Enlightenment
41:24 The Journey of Writing a Book
50:01 Lessons from Surfing and Writing
56:52 Community and Identity in Surfing
59:12 Reception and Future Plans
01:02:43 Where to Find the Book and Final Thoughts

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/swell-season-surf-radio--3483504/support.

On this episode of the Swell Season Surf Podcast, we do a deep dive with journalist and podcaster Matt Barr to explore the implications of Patagonia founder Yvonne Chouinard's groundbreaking decision to transfer ownership of the company to entities that prioritize the environment. Matt discusses his three-part podcast documentary series 'The Announcement,' which provides a comprehensive investigation into this transformative corporate model. The conversation tackles whether capitalism can truly be a force for good, the scrutiny faced by Patagonia, and the broader implications for the future of capitalism and sustainability. Tune in to gain valuable insights from Matt Barr's journey, learn about the challenges and benefits of the B Corp status, and understand the critical questions we need to ask about corporate responsibility and environmental stewardship.

To Find out more about the Looking Sideways Podcast, go do yourself a favor and check out his substack: https://www.wearelookingsideways.com/

To follow Matt Barr  on Instagram go to @welooksideways

The Swell Season Surf Podcast is recorded by The NewsStand Studio at Rockefeller Center in the heart of Manhattan and is distributed by The Swell Season Surf Radio Network. 

For more information, you can follow @swellseasonsurfradio on Instagram or go to our website: www.swellseasonsurf.com 

Music:
Artist: The Smiths
Song: Oscillate Wildly
Album: Louder Than Bombs


00:00 Introduction to the Swell Season Surf Podcast
01:36 Patagonia's Revolutionary Corporate Model
02:27 Matt Barr's Investigative Podcast Series
03:23 Interview with Matt Barr Begins
03:49 Philanthropy and Corporate Responsibility
09:16 The B Corp Certification Debate
15:19 Patagonia's Unique Ownership Structure
29:37 Employee Ownership vs. Traditional Models
41:57 Discussing Taxing the Rich and Patagonia's Stance
43:17 The Complexity of Yvon Chouinard's Image
45:26 Activism and the Need for Stronger Actions
46:39 Debating Wealth Tax and Public Perception
49:04 Patagonia's Environmental Messaging and Accountability
51:47 Evaluating Patagonia's Long-Term Impact
01:00:26 Exploring New Economic Models
01:18:47 The Role of Leadership in Social Movements
01:21:36 Discussing Immigration Challenges
01:22:18 Plans for Future Travels
01:23:51 The Journey of Creating a Documentary
01:26:09 Family Influence and Support
01:28:01 Collaborating with Friends and Experts
01:31:34 Refining the Project
01:38:32 Exploring New Documentary Ideas
01:44:14 Feedback and Future Plans
01:48:30 Shameless Plug and Final Thoughts


Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/swell-season-surf-radio--3483504/support.