13TH SEASON FINALE!!!

In this exclusive episode of The Temple of Surf Podcast, we dive deep into the mind of W. Peter Iliff, the legendary screenwriter who brought one of the most iconic surf films of all time to life : Point Break.

Written in the early 1990s and directed by Kathryn Bigelow, Point Break became a cultural phenomenon, blending the adrenaline of big-wave surfing with the raw energy of undercover crime and spiritual brotherhood.

Peter shares the incredible story of how Point Break came to be from his early writing days in Los Angeles to the moment the film caught the attention of Hollywood. We talk about the creative process behind the screenplay, his collaboration with Bigelow, and how characters like Johnny Utah (Keanu Reeves) and Bodhi (Patrick Swayze) became timeless symbols of freedom, rebellion, and the search for meaning through surfing.

Iliff opens up about the challenges of writing a movie that went beyond surf clichés and instead captured the soul of the ocean, the philosophy of living on the edge, and the spiritual bond among surfers and outlaws alike. We also discuss how Point Break continues to inspire generations of surfers, filmmakers, and dreamers more than 30 years later.

From behind-the-scenes stories to the deeper message of "If you want the ultimate, you've got to be willing to pay the ultimate price," this episode explores why Point Break remains one of the greatest surf movies ever made, not just for its action, but for its heart.

Peter also shares updates about his current projects, his reflections on Hollywood storytelling today, and his personal connection to the surf community that embraced Point Break as a spiritual anthem.

Whether you're a surfer, a movie lover, or someone chasing your own wave in life, this conversation will remind you why the ocean and cinema are both places where truth and freedom collide.

Tune in to The Temple of Surf Podcast and join me for a powerful, nostalgic, and inspiring journey through surf culture, art, and storytelling with one of the most influential screenwriters of our time.

🎧 Available on Spotify, YouTube, and all major podcast platforms.

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In this new episode of The Temple of Surf Podcast, we sit down with one of the world's most respected surfboard shapers, Johnny Cabianca, the Brazilian craftsman whose boards have powered some of the greatest surfers on the planet, including Gabriel Medina, multiple-time World Champion. From his early days in Brazil to his current shaping bay in the Basque Country, Johnny shares an extraordinary story of talent, dedication, and a lifelong obsession with performance surfing.

In this exclusive interview, Johnny Cabianca opens up about his beginnings in São Paulo, how he first discovered the magic of shaping, and what drove him to move across the world to Euskadi, where he now builds his world-renowned Cabianca Surfboards. He talks about the creative process behind designing a high-performance surfboard, the delicate balance between innovation and intuition, and what it takes to translate a surfer's personality and energy into foam, resin, and speed.

We explore the golden years of his collaboration with Gabriel Medina, from their first boards together to the unforgettable 2014 World Title victory. Johnny reflects on the evolution of surfboard design for competitive surfing, the impact of wave pools, and how new materials and technologies are shaping the future of performance surfing. He also discusses how he maintains authenticity and craftsmanship in a world increasingly dominated by mass-production and marketing hype.

But beyond technique and competition, this episode also dives deep into Johnny's philosophy of surfing and life, his belief that shaping is an art form, his connection with the ocean, and his gratitude for being part of a global community that shares the same passion. From shaping bays in Brazil to the powerful waves of the Basque Coast, Johnny's story is one of perseverance, creativity, and the timeless pursuit of excellence.

If you love surf culture, design, and craftsmanship, this episode is a must-listen. You'll hear about the tools, the rituals, and the inspirations that make each Cabianca board unique a fusion of Brazilian soul and Basque precision. Johnny also offers advice for young shapers starting out today, and shares his vision of what the next generation of surfboards and surfers might look like.

Join Alessandro as he uncovers the human side of one of surfing's most iconic board builders. A celebration of artistry, friendship, and the never-ending quest to create the perfect board.

🎧 Listen now on YouTube, Spotify, and all major podcast platforms. 🌊 The Temple of Surf The Podcast, conversations that keep the stoke alive.

This week on The Temple of Surf Podcast, we welcome one of the most distinctive voices in modern surfboard design, Jeff McCallum.

Known for his meticulous craftsmanship, innovative shapes, and instantly recognizable aesthetic, McCallum has become a cult figure among surfboard collectors and riders alike. From his San Diego workshop, he creates what many call rideable art boards that merge performance, creativity, and visual beauty in perfect harmony.

In this episode, we dive deep into Jeff's journey, from his early days learning the craft to developing his own unique design language that blends mid-century influences, Japanese precision, and a Californian sense of flow. McCallum opens up about what it truly means to shape by hand in a digital age, why he values imperfection, and how each board carries the soul of its maker.

Listeners will discover how Jeff's boards have become icons in surf culture from sleek fishes and asymmetrical designs to resin-tinted masterpieces that look as good on a wave as they do on a gallery wall. We talk about the process behind the glassing techniques that give his boards their luminous depth, what inspires him and the mindset required to keep evolving while staying true to craftsmanship.

Whether you're a surfer, a collector, or simply someone fascinated by creativity, this conversation reveals the deeper philosophy behind the shaping bay, where foam and resin meet imagination. McCallum reminds us that surfing isn't just about chasing waves, it's about connection: to the ocean, to design, and to the timeless pursuit of making something meaningful with your hands.

From custom collaborations to limited-edition art pieces, Jeff's boards reflect a rare blend of authenticity and innovation. His approach challenges today's fast-paced, mass-produced surf industry, inviting us to slow down and appreciate the story behind every line, curve, and color.

Tune in to The Temple of Surf Podcast and immerse yourself in the creative world of Jeff McCallum a conversation about art, surfing, and the eternal craftsmanship that keeps surf culture alive.

This week on The Temple of Surf Podcast, we swim into the world of ocean conservation with one of the most passionate defenders of marine life David McGuire, marine biologist, filmmaker, and founder of Shark Stewards. Known to many as "Shark Stewards Dave", McGuire has dedicated his life to protecting sharks and restoring healthy ocean ecosystems. From the wild waters of California to the coral reefs of the Indo-Pacific, his mission is clear: to save sharks and safeguard the balance of the sea.

Sharks have been swimming our oceans for over 400 million years, yet today they face one of the most severe threats in their long evolutionary history, overfishing, habitat loss, and the cruel practice of shark finning. Through his non-profit organization Shark Stewards, David has been on the frontlines of this battle, successfully helping to pass legislation banning the shark fin trade in several U.S. states, and working internationally to promote sustainable fisheries and marine protected areas.

In this inspiring conversation, we explore how David's journey from ocean explorer and filmmaker led him to become a leading voice in marine advocacy. We talk about his early encounters with sharks, his documentaries for National Geographic and other media, and the moment he realized he could no longer stand by while these incredible animals were disappearing from our oceans. His passion is contagious, and his stories remind us that every one of us surfer, diver, or ocean lover has a role to play in protecting the blue heart of our planet.

We also discuss how sharks are misunderstood creatures, often feared rather than respected. David breaks down the myths surrounding shark attacks and shares how media sensationalism has distorted our view of these apex predators. In reality, sharks are essential to the health of marine ecosystems. Without them, the delicate balance of the ocean collapses. Through education, science, and storytelling, Shark Stewards works to replace fear with understanding and action.

From the great whites cruising California's coast to the reef sharks of the South Pacific, David's insights illuminate the complex relationship between humans and the sea. This episode isn't just about conservation, it's about connection. It's a reminder that protecting sharks means protecting the very waves we ride and the oceans that define our culture as surfers.

Tune in to this episode of The Temple of Surf and be inspired by David McGuire's vision of a future where sharks still roam free, coral reefs thrive, and the ocean remains wild and alive for generations to come.

The Temple of Surf Podcast is back with another inspiring episode, and this week we're diving into the world of surf art with one of the most intriguing names on the scene today: Rick Blake. Known for his bold strokes, vibrant palettes, and ability to capture the raw energy of waves and surf culture on canvas, Rick has established himself as a unique voice bridging the ocean and artistic expression.

Surf art has always been more than decoration, it's a way to preserve the soul of surfing, to translate fleeting moments into lasting visual stories. Rick Blake's work does exactly that. His paintings don't just depict surfers riding waves; they reflect the lifestyle, the freedom, and the connection between humans and the sea. Whether it's a stormy break crashing on a rugged coastline or the calm glow of a sunset surf session, Rick's canvases radiate the emotion of the ocean.

In this episode, we talk about his creative journey, how Rick discovered painting as a way to honor his love for surfing, the influences that shaped his style, and the challenges of making a career as a surf artist. From early sketches to large-scale works exhibited in galleries, Rick's path is a story of passion, persistence, and dedication to his craft. He shares stories about painting on location, how he studies wave movement, and the techniques he uses to capture the flow and rhythm of water on a flat surface.

We also focus into the larger world of surf art and why it matters. Surfing isn't just a sport, it's a culture with its own language, history, and aesthetic. Rick Blake explains how art preserves the heritage of surfing, inspiring younger generations and reminding us of the pioneers who first paddled out decades ago. He discusses the responsibility artists carry in representing surf culture authentically while also pushing the boundaries of creativity.

As you listen, you'll hear Rick's perspective on the future of surf art in a digital age. How does social media change the way artists share their work? What role do collaborations with brands, surf museums, and fellow creatives play in spreading the movement? And how can surf art inspire environmental awareness, encouraging people to protect the waves and beaches we all cherish?

If you're passionate about surfing, creativity, or simply love stories of people following their calling, this conversation will inspire you. Rick Blake's art reminds us that surfing is not only about chasing the perfect wave,it's also about celebrating the beauty and spirit of the ocean in all forms.

Tune in to The Temple of Surf Podcast and discover the world of Rick Blake, a surf artist whose canvases breathe salt air and sunlight.

Welcome to a new episode of The Temple of Surf Podcast! This week we sit down with Damien Marly, surfboard shaper, surfer, and founder of Chipirons Surfboards, a brand born in the heart of Les Landes, France.

For Damien, surfing has always been more than a sport, it's a lifestyle, a connection to nature, and a way of expressing creativity through craft. What started as a personal journey of shaping boards turned into Chipirons Surfboards, a label that has become known in Europe and beyond for its originality, community spirit, and beautifully crafted boards.

In this episode, Damien takes us inside his shaping bay and philosophy. We talk about:

• The early days of his surfing life and how Chipirons was created.

• How the powerful beach breaks of Les Landes inspire his designs.

• His approach to surfboard design and innovation, from retro fish to performance shortboards.

• The importance of sustainability and local craftsmanship in surf culture today.

• The unique Chipirons identity: a mix of fun, family, and passion that attracts surfers from all over Europe.

Damien also shares his thoughts on what it means to keep surfing authentic in an age of mass production, and how shaping boards by hand connects the surfer to the ocean in a deeper way.

Whether you are a surfer, a surfboard collector, or simply someone fascinated by the stories behind iconic surf brands, this conversation will give you insight into the soul of surfing in France.

Listen now and join us in celebrating the world of surfboards, craftsmanship, and surf culture with Damien Marly of Chipirons Surfboards.

This week on The Temple of Surf Podcast we are honored to welcome one of the most iconic figures in surfing's golden age: Rory Russell.

Known to the world as the "Pipeline Prince," Rory rose to fame in the 1970s with a fearless style, unmatched charisma, and a deep connection to one of the most dangerous and celebrated waves on the planet. His story is not only about individual triumphs, but also about an era of surfing that shaped the culture as we know it today.

Born and raised on the North Shore of Oahu, Rory grew up in the epicenter of the surf revolution. While the 1960s gave us the longboard boom and the first professional contests, it was in the 1970s that surfing truly matured into a global sport and lifestyle. Rory Russell, with his flowing hair, infectious smile, and electrifying presence in the water, became both a competitor and a cultural figure. His back-to-back Pipeline Masters victories in 1976 and 1977 etched his name permanently into the history of surfing, cementing his reputation as one of the greats of that era.

In this episode, we dive deep into those years of transformation, when professional surfing tours were just starting to take shape, and when Pipeline itself was being redefined by riders like Gerry Lopez and Rory Russell. Together, they set the standard for what it meant to charge one of the heaviest waves in the world. Rory's approach was fearless yet stylish, proving that big-wave performance could be both radical and graceful.

But Rory's story goes beyond trophies and titles. He represents a spirit of aloha that transcends competition. Even today, decades after his competitive peak, Rory is celebrated for his humor, his generosity, and his willingness to keep the stories of surf history alive. Few people can talk about the golden age with such authenticity, not only because he lived it, but because he was one of the shining stars of that time.

Listeners will hear Rory reflect on what it was like to be part of the North Shore scene when it was still raw, untamed, and legendary. He shares stories of traveling the world with little more than a board under his arm, chasing waves, and discovering cultures far from Hawaii. We discuss the early days of surfboard design experimentation, the friendships and rivalries that shaped competitions, and the unique atmosphere of Pipeline in the 1970s a proving ground where reputations were built in a single drop.

We also explore what surf history means to Rory now. He is not just looking back with nostalgia, but also forward with passion. He remains involved in passing down knowledge to the next generation, making sure the lessons, values, and stories of his era are not forgotten.

His reflections remind us that surfing is not just about riding waves but about the community, creativity, and courage that come with it.

This episode is more than just an interview, it's a journey into a time when surfing was wild, free, and evolving into the global phenomenon we know today. Rory Russell is a bridge between the mythic past and the vibrant present, a storyteller whose laughter carries the rhythm of the waves he once dominated.

Join us as we sit down with Rory Russell to talk surf history, Pipeline, and the spirit of aloha. Whether you are a lifelong surfer, a student of surf culture, or simply someone who loves great stories, this episode will take you straight to the heart of surfing's golden era.

This week on The Temple of Surf Podcast, we welcome a truly unique voice in surf culture: Japanese surf photographer Tatsuo Takei, whose eye for authenticity has inspired and preserved the soul of surfing for decades. Known for his celebrated book Authentic Wave, Tatsuo has carved his own path as an artist, blending timeless craftsmanship with a deep love for the ocean and the communities that revolve around it.

Tatsuo's story is one of passion, patience, and devotion. Born in Osaka, Japan, he grew up far from the breaks of California and Hawaii, yet the pull of the surf lifestyle was impossible to resist. His early fascination with American surf magazines and films eventually led him on a journey across the Pacific, where he immersed himself in the surf scenes of California. Unlike many contemporary photographers, Tatsuo has remained committed to shooting on film, particularly 16mm, embracing a medium that demands discipline and rewards authenticity. In a world dominated by digital speed and convenience, his analog approach offers something rare: photographs that capture the quiet poetry of surfing.

His book Authentic Wave is not just a collection of images, it is a cultural statement. Page after page, Tatsuo documents a surfing experience that values style, community, and purity over competition and commercialization. He focuses on longboarding, classic style, and the personalities who embody surfing's roots, reminding us that this culture is about much more than chasing the next contest trophy. His work resonates with surfers around the world who long for a connection to the essence of wave-riding, unfiltered and unpolished.

In our conversation, Tatsuo shares what drove him to dedicate his life to film photography in an era when most abandoned it. He explains the technical and artistic challenges of working with film in the ever-changing conditions of the ocean. From loading cameras in the sand to timing shots perfectly with light and swell, his craft is both art and ritual. The results, however, are stunning images that feel alive, textured, and eternal.

We also explore how cultural perspective shapes his art. Coming from Japan but embedding himself in the Californian surf world, Tatsuo bridges two traditions, offering a unique lens on what it means to be a surfer. He speaks about the Japanese reverence for nature, harmony, and tradition, and how these values influence the way he documents surfers gliding along timeless waves.

For anyone who has felt the magic of a perfectly ridden wave or admired the effortless style of classic longboarding, Tatsuo's work is a reminder of surfing's eternal truths. His photographs are not just about action; they are about atmosphere, spirit, and the fleeting moments that make surfing a way of life rather than just a sport.

Tune in to this episode to hear Tatsuo Takei reflect on his journey, his book Authentic Wave, and his vision for the future of surf culture. It's a conversation that honors surfing's past while reminding us of the importance of staying true to its essence.

This week on The Temple of Surf Podcast, we welcome a truly innovative guest: Taylor Lane, the creative mind and environmental advocate best known for building the now legendary Cigarette Surfboard, a surfboard made entirely from discarded cigarette butts collected from beaches and streets.

What started as a student project has since become a global statement, sparking awareness about the devastating impact of cigarette waste on our oceans.

Cigarette butts are the most littered item on the planet. Trillions of them are discarded every year, and the majority end up leaching toxic chemicals and microplastics into waterways, beaches, and marine ecosystems. For surfers and ocean lovers, this is a heartbreaking reality , the very places that give us joy and connection are being polluted every single day.

Taylor Lane decided not to look away. Instead, he transformed this ugly reality into something powerful, a surfboard that forces us to confront the issue head-on.

In this conversation, Taylor shares the story of how the Cigarette Surfboard came to life, the challenges he faced in bringing it from concept to reality, and the reactions it has generated across the surf and environmental communities. But this is not only a story about one surfboard. It is about creativity, activism, and the role that art and surfing can play in driving cultural change. Taylor reminds us that sometimes the most impactful messages are delivered through unexpected mediums, in this case, a surfboard that nobody would ever think to ride and that everybody wants to talk about.

We also explore the bigger picture: how can we, as individuals and as a community, protect our oceans? From simple daily choices like properly disposing of waste, reducing single-use plastics, and participating in beach cleanups, to supporting larger initiatives and policies aimed at ocean protection, every action counts. Taylor emphasizes that the fight for clean oceans is not limited to activists or organizations, it is something every surfer, every beachgoer, and every citizen can take part in.

For surfers, the ocean is more than a playground; it is a sacred space, a source of healing, and a cultural heartbeat. Protecting it is not an option, it is a responsibility. Taylor's project reminds us that sometimes the most effective way to raise awareness is by combining passion, creativity, and a strong message. The Cigarette Surfboard is not just a board, it is a wake-up call and it has already traveled around the world to ignite conversations and inspire action.

Whether you are a surfer, an environmentalist, or simply someone who cares about the future of our planet, this episode will leave you thinking differently about the objects we throw away and the power of turning problems into solutions.

Join us as we dive into the inspiring journey of Taylor Lane, the Cigarette Surfboard, and the ongoing mission to protect the ocean and its beaches for generations to come.

This week on The Temple of Surf Podcast, we welcome a guest whose life and mission revolve around one of the ocean's most fascinating yet misunderstood creatures: the shark.

Our guest is Madison Stewart, known worldwide as Shark Girl, a fearless advocate, filmmaker, and diver who has spent most of her life swimming with sharks and fighting for their survival. But in this conversation, we explore something very close to the heart of our listeners: the unique, complex, and often misunderstood relationship between sharks and surfers.

For decades, sharks have been portrayed as villains in surf culture, symbols of fear lurking beneath the waves.

Yet as Madison explains, surfers and sharks share far more in common than we might imagine. Both are intimately connected to the rhythm of the ocean. Both rely on healthy marine ecosystems. And both are vulnerable, surfers to the changing climate and coastlines, sharks to overfishing and human misunderstanding. Madison's own journey began in her childhood on Australia's Gold Coast. By the time most kids were learning to swim, she was diving alongside sharks. What struck her wasn't terror, but awe: a recognition of their intelligence, beauty, and essential role in the ocean's balance.

When she saw firsthand the destruction of shark populations due to industrial fishing and the global fin trade, she dedicated herself to telling their story. Her documentaries, campaigns, and fearless underwater encounters have made her a powerful voice for conservation. In our discussion, Madison brings that perspective directly to the surfing world.

She challenges us, as surfers, to move beyond fear and embrace understanding. Sharks are not "the enemy", they are guardians of the sea, keeping ecosystems balanced in ways that directly affect the waves we ride and the beaches we love.

Without sharks, reefs collapse, fish populations decline, and the entire ocean suffers. And when the ocean suffers, surfers do too.

We dive into myths versus reality: how often do shark encounters with surfers actually occur? What drives those rare events? And most importantly, how can surfers become allies in protecting sharks rather than fearing them?

Madison's insights are both eye-opening and deeply inspiring, reminding us that coexistence is not only possible but essential. Beyond the science and advocacy, this episode is also about respect, the respect surfers owe to the creatures who have called the ocean home for millions of years. By shifting our perspective, we not only protect sharks, we protect the future of surfing itself.

Madison Stewart is living proof that one person's passion can ripple outward to change perceptions, influence policy, and inspire others to act. Her voice bridges the gap between two worlds often seen in conflict: the world of the surfer and the world of the shark.

So join us for this powerful conversation as we explore the shared destiny of sharks and surfers and discover why protecting them is, in the end, protecting ourselves.