On this episode of the Swell Season Surf Podcast, we welcome board industry vet, Jamie Meiselman to the show! We  trace his journey from cold-water surfing in Westfield, New Jersey and the DIY dawn of Northeast snowboarding to a lifetime of innovation across board sports. Jamie reflects on his early roots in skate, surf and competitive snowboarding, pioneering boot technology with Burton and Airwalk, and his years shaping the voice of the industry as Managing Editor of Transworld Snowboarding during its explosive growth in the early 90s. After earning an MBA at Columbia, he pursued an ambitious surf-focused wave pool project that ultimately collapsed, shaping his philosophy on risk, resilience, and iteration. In 2017, Jamie returned to his core passion and founded Solite, introducing the first heat-moldable surf bootie and building a lean, performance-driven brand now respected worldwide. This conversation explores obsession, reinvention, craftsmanship, wave pool evolution, and the mindset behind creating products that truly improve function — closing with reflections on shaping, favorite boards, and the perfect eternity wave.

Follow Jamie’s company Solite Boots on Instagram @solitebootsand you can check out the latest selection at https://soliteboots.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: Sure Sure
Song: This Must be the Place
Album: Sure Sure


00:00 Welcome to the Swell Season Surf Podcast + Jamie Meiselman’s Wild Resume
04:18 Risk, Failure & the Brutal Early Wave Pool Dream (1999–2004)
07:08 Franken-Boots, First Patents & Burton/K2 Innovation Stories
10:47 The Obsession Advantage: How Jamie Thinks, Learns & Gets Distracted (AI Tools)
13:21 Building a Lean Niche Brand: Solite’s Focus, Marketing & Why Performance Wins
19:02 Growing Up in NJ: Skateparks, Hamptons Summers & Learning to Surf
23:32 Early Snowboarding DIY Era: Woodshop Boards, Ski-Shop Roots & Tinkering Mindset
28:07 Solite Origin Story: From Seamless EVA Surf Gloves to Heat-Moldable Boots
32:42 Staying Small on Purpose: Competitors, Core Values & Avoiding the ‘Next Nike’ Trap
35:46 Founder Reality Check: Freedom vs 7-Day Weeks, Support Systems & Family Balance
41:58 Less Is More: Letting Kids Learn With Guardrails
42:53 Balancing Marriage, Work, and Empty-Nester Life43:42 Surf vs Snowboard: Family Interests & Learning Curves
46:17 Living Inland vs Beachside: Staying Hungry for Waves
49:40 Dartmouth Days: Choosing Mountains, Quitting Lacrosse for Snowboarding
52:03 Starting a Snowboard Club + Early Skiers vs Snowboarders Tension
54:41 The ‘Urinal Meeting’ That Launched a Transworld Writing Career
57:09 Why Surfing Stays #1 (and Chasing Feel Over Progression)
01:00:06 From Shaping Curiosity to DIY Boardbuilding as a Step-by-Step Process
01:05:52 Boots, Concave Decks, and Performance-Enhancing Gear Ideas
01:09:17 Inside Transworld’s Boom: Ads, Trade Shows, and Snowboarding’s Explosion
01:13:30 From Airwalk to Burton: Boot Wars, Culture Shock, and the Wave-Pool Seed
01:19:45 From Water Parks to Surf Pools: The Wave Pool Spark01:20:27 Prototyping the Dream: Trade Shows, Engineers & Early Wave Tech
01:21:42 Business School as a Launchpad: Columbia, Seed Money & Raising Capital
01:24:09 The Hard Part: Rejection, Anxiety, and Getting to the First Million
01:26:20 The Fatal Flaw: Adjustable Bottom Contours and Why the Pool Kept Breaking
01:28:11 When It Fell Apart: Boardroom Confidence, Bad Partners & Lessons Learned
01:29:43 The Randall’s Island “What If”: NYC Indoor Surfing That Never Happened
01:32:18 Bouncing Back: Mindset After Failure and Building Smarter at Solight
01:35:48 Solight’s Growth Playbook: DTC vs Wholesale, Dealers, and Global Distribution
01:40:17 Marketing Breakthrough: Pros in Cold Water and the Slater Boots Moment
01:43:19 What’s Next for Solight: New Products, Hats, and “No Me-Too Gear” Philosophy
01:47:57 Surfer Questionnaire + The Perfect Eternal Wave (and Wave Pools Today)
01:54:34 Closing Thoughts: The Future of Surfing, Wave Pool Communities & Sign-Off

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

In this episode of the Swell Season Surf Podcast, We welcome Christopher Thomas Campbell, artist, architect, and founder of St. Christopher's Surf Craft, to the show. We dive deep into Campbell's unique journey from architecture and fine art to surfboard shaping. Discover the intricacies of edge board design, the influence of New York's surfing conditions, and the evolution of modern backyard shaping. Campbell shares insights on rail engagement, fin setups, and the philosophy behind his craft, culminating in a thought-provoking discussion about whether surfboards can be considered art. Don't miss this engaging conversation about innovation, craftsmanship, and the future of St. Christopher's Surf Craft.

Follow Saint Christopher Surfboards on Instagram @saint_christopher_surfcraftand you can find his artwork here: https://christopherthomascampbell.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: Fairport Convention
Song: Genesis Hall
Album: Unhallfbricking

00:00 Introduction to the Swell Season Surf Podcast
01:09 Meet Christopher Thomas Campbell
02:24 Diving into Edge Board Design
03:27 The Unique Features of Edge Boards
04:49 Exploring Surfboard Design and Innovation
38:05 The Influence of Skateboarding on Surfing
43:45 Art and Architecture in Surfboard Shaping
47:57 Introduction to the Shop Manager
48:16 From Sculpture to Surfboard
49:48 The Veneer Essay and Surfboard Aesthetics
53:11 The Importance of Glassing and Collaboration
57:42 Sustainability and Material Choices in Surfboards
01:03:59 Gender and Surfboard Design
01:12:28 Surfboards as Art vs. Function
01:21:16 Rapid Fire Questions and Conclusion

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

In this episode of the Swell Season Surf Podcast, we welcome NYC big wave surfer Pete ‘Luigi’ Shaw. Raised in New York, Pete's journey from local waves to conquering some of the world's biggest breaks, like Nazaré and Teahupo'o, showcases unparalleled grit and determination. Pete shares his experiences paddling out solo, his method of managing fear, and his approach to surfing's evolving culture. We  discuss the highs, the near misses, and the relentless passion that drives Pete to chase monster waves around the globe. we’re diving into big waves, fear, resilience, community, and what drives someone to paddle out with nothing but heart and a helmet that occasionally slips over his eyes. 

Follow Pete on Instagram @saltypetv and YouTube for a glimpse into his wild adventures: https://www.youtube.com/@saltypetetv 

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: T.S.O.L
Song: It’s Too Late
Album: Hit & Run

00:00 Introduction to the Swell Season Surf Podcast
01:38 Meet Pete Shaw: The Gritty New York Surfer
03:26 Big Wave Adventures and Solo Surfing
06:43 Early Surfing Days and Inspirations
12:04 Pioneering Big Wave Surfing in New York
22:51 The Journey to Surfing Jaws and YMA
32:52 First Encounters with Nazaré
38:12 Navigating the Lineup
39:04 Catching the Monster Wave
41:32 Challenges of Big Wave Surfing
42:24 Breaking into the Big Wave Community
45:06 Paddle Surfing vs. Tow Surfing
48:20 Building a Team and Trust
59:41 Managing Fear in Big Waves
01:07:07 Surfing in New York and Family Ties
01:13:20 The Evolution of Big Wave Surfing

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

In this episode of the Swell Season Surf Podcast, we dive into the controversial revival of the Williams LNG pipeline project off the coast of New York and New Jersey. Joined by Matt Gove from the Surfrider Foundation, we explore the environmental, health, and community impacts of the pipeline, and discuss why it's critical to oppose this project. The conversation also highlights the broader context of climate change and energy politics, the role of data centers, and the importance of renewable energy sources like offshore wind farms. Learn how you can get involved in the fight against the pipeline and make a difference for our coastal communities. Listen here… 

Get involved. Go to https://nyc.surfrider.org/stop-the-williams-pipeline to learn more.

Become a member of Surfrider: https://nyc.surfrider.org/volunteer 

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: Pato Banton
Song: One World (Not three)
Album: Universal Love

00:00 Introduction to the Swell Season Surf Podcast
01:58 The Williams LNG Pipeline Controversy
02:32 Guest Introduction: Matt Gove from Surf Rider Foundation
04:05 Pipeline Concerns and Environmental Impact
08:45 Safety Issues and Historical Context
11:11 Political and Economic Factors
24:58 Mitigation Measures and Legal Actions
29:49 Bipartisan Opposition to the Pipeline
30:43 Rapid Approval Process
32:22 Economic and Environmental Concerns
35:18 Fracking and Its Consequences
38:41 Actions to Fight the Pipeline
44:20 Hope in Renewable Energy
49:03 Whale Safety and Wind Farms
53:40 Get Involved with Surf Rider

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

On the latest  Swell Season Radio Art & Design Series, Design host Chris Labzda sits down with the multifaceted Australian artist, surfer, and musician, Ozzy Wright. Ozzy shares insights into his unique path, transitioning from a passionate young surfer to a versatile creative force in art and music. The conversation dives deep into his inspirations from skate culture, the influence of brands like Volcom, and his approach to creating art that resonates emotionally. Ozzy also reflects on the evolving art scene in Australia and the balancing act of creativity and family life. Ozzy is a legend of the sport and his artistic style both in and out of the water has influenced the culture throughout the 21st century. Definitely an episode not to be missed! 

You can find Ozzy Wright’s work here: https://ozzywrong.com/ Or follow him on instagram @ozzywrong

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: Ad Astra
Song: Do you Like Me?
Album: Consume: Psy-Harmonics, Vol. 6

00:00 Introduction to the Guest: Ozzy Wright
02:05 From Surfing to Art: Ozzy's Journey
04:00 Influences and Inspirations
09:40 Balancing Art, Music, and Family
19:18 Art Scene in Australia
22:31 Early Art Adventures in London
23:21 Exploring Textile Art
24:30 Sewing as a Medium
28:00 Creative Influences and Volcom
29:36 The Surf and Art Connection
37:26 Music and the Goons of Doom
40:17 Inspiration for Young Creatives

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 welcomes surfboard shaper and surf legend Neal Purchase Jr. to discuss his incredible journey through the world of surfing. From his early days screenprinting for Billabong and becoming a free surfing pro in the 90’s  to his innovative board designs with deep family roots, Neal shares stories and insights that have defined his career. Joined by  co-host and friend of the show, Paul Colbert, the conversation explores Neal’s pivotal moments in surf cinema, his unique duo fin setups, and his recent shaping residency at Pilgrim Surfing Supply in New York. The episode also touches on the evolution of surfboard preferences, balancing a surf-centric lifestyle with family responsibilities, and advice on fatherhood and surfing longevity. Don’t miss this deep dive into the spirit of surfing and the craft of shaping with one of the industry's most revered figures.

You can find Neal and order some incredible shapes at his website: https://www.nealpurchasedesigns.com/

Or follow him on instagram @nealpurchasejnr 

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: Concrete Blonde
Song: True
Album: Concrete Blonde 


00:00 Introduction and Special Guest Announcement
01:09 Rewind to 1992: Surf Camp Memories
02:25 Neil Purchase Jr.'s Surfing Legacy
03:41 Welcome Neil Purchase Jr.
04:01 Early Surfing Adventures and Influences
05:20 The Evolution of Surf Culture
06:36 Challenges and Changes in Surfing
18:23 Health and Aging in Surfing
21:50 Backside Tube Riding Techniques
33:50 Shaping and Design Innovations
44:49 Shaping Around the Fin: Techniques and Insights
46:11 Exploring Twin Fins and Surfboard Design Evolution
48:12 The Thrill of Surfing: Swells, Boards, and Trave
l48:38 Custom Surfboards: Crafting the Perfect Ride
50:06 The Art of Surfboard Shaping: Techniques and Materials
58:00 Surfing Culture and Community: Reflections and Changes
01:05:45 Balancing Family and Surfing: Personal Insights
01:17:56 Memorable Surfing Experiences and Lessons Learned
01:21:04 Final Thoughts and Reflections


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

In this episode of the Swell Season Surf Podcast , we connect with an old college roommate and long-time friend, Enrique Moose Huerta. We  reminisce about our  time at Flagler College, including our surfing adventures and dorm room antics. Moose shares his journey from college surfer to creative producer and independent consultant, shedding light on his experiences with Vice Media, Nike, and starting his own consultancy, Land Sea.
The episode also delves into Moose's latest project, the East Coast Special podcast, which beautifully encapsulates the charm and grit of East Coast surf culture. Moose describes the podcast as a love child of Eastern Surf Magazine and Longboard Magazine, aiming to highlight the unique stories and characters of the East Coast surf scene. Listen in for hilarious stories, reflections on how our paths have evolved over the years, and insights into Moose's creative process and inspirations.

You can follow East Coast Special on Instagram @eastcoast.special

You can listen to East Coast Special on all podcast platforms.
Here is a link to get you started: East Coast Special

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: Elliot Smith
Song: The Biggest Lie
Album: Elliot Smith



00:00 Introduction and Guest Background
03:27 Reconnecting with Moose
05:00 Thoughtfulness and Upbringing
09:05 Surfing Beginnings and High School Experience
16:55 College Days and Roommate Stories
35:50 Single Fin Hoe Down and Surf Community
38:17 Reflecting on the Contest and Moving to California
39:17 The Evolution of Surfing Events
40:46 Influences and Inspirations in Surfing
44:44 Career Beginnings and Moving West
48:37 Working at Nixon and Industry Insights
52:41 Transitioning Out of the Surf Industry
01:06:18 Starting a Podcast and Creative Freedom
01:21:49 The Saxophone Prank
01:22:06 College Memories and Mishaps
01:23:47 Flagler College Experience
01:25:15 Mentorship and Influences
01:29:57 Podcasting Journey and Reflections
01:36:25 Nostalgia and Personal Stories
01:43:57 Final Thoughts and Farewells

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 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.