This week we’re diving into one of the most divisive questions in beginner surf circles: to wear or not to wear an Apple Watch in the lineup. From SOS lifesavers and surf stat trackers to saltwater meltdowns and lost gadgets, we unpack real surfer stories and debate whether the convenience is worth the risk. Also, find out what ADT alarms, cats, and surf beers have to do with it. Spoiler: more than you think.

Slipping off your board for no good reason? You’re not alone. In today’s episode, we dive into the real reasons why beginner (and even intermediate) surfers find themselves sliding around like they’re on a greased watermelon. From slippery foamies and sunscreen mishaps to bad board positioning and core disconnect, we break down every possible culprit—and how to fix it. If you’ve ever shouted “Why the f am I sliding off?!” mid-session, this one’s for you.

You're standing on the beach, board in hand, perfect waves rolling in… and suddenly your chest tightens. Fear creeps in. Shouldn’t this be fun? In today’s episode, we talk about something rarely acknowledged in surf culture—surfing with anxiety. Whether it’s fear of judgment, feeling unsafe, or just the overwhelming vastness of the ocean, you’re not alone. We share real stories, triggers, and advice from surfers who’ve been there.

Ever heard a surfer say, “Stay in the pocket,” and wondered if they meant their board shorts? In today’s episode, we unpack what “the pocket” means in surfing, where the phrase may have come from, and why it’s one of the most important—and misunderstood—concepts for beginner surfers. It’s not just a spot on the wave; it’s the key to speed, flow, and riding with the wave’s energy instead of fighting it.

Curious how big wave surfing began? Or what even counts as a "big" wave? In this episode, we dive (not literally) into the origins of big wave riding—from ancient Hawai‘i to the pioneers of the 1930s, to Laird Hamilton’s tow-in era at Jaws. Learn why competitions like The Eddie only run under mythical conditions, how Mavericks became a proving ground, and why big wave riding is as much about obsession as it is about bravery. Plus, find out the current world records for biggest waves surfed (spoiler: they’re monstrous).

This week’s surf spot spotlight takes us to Byron Bay, Australia—a dreamy, sun-soaked town that’s equal parts surf haven and wellness retreat. Once a quiet fishing village (yep, another one), Byron is now a vibrant surf destination packed with mellow waves, boho vibes, and more longboards than you can count. We break down where beginners should paddle out, what to watch for at The Pass, and why Byron Bay is perfect for solo surf travel—bluebottles and all.

Why do some experienced surfers hate beginners? We’ve all felt the vibe—side-eyes in the lineup, snarky comments, or worse. In this episode, we dive into the strange divide between crusties and kooks, and unpack everything from safety concerns and surf hierarchy to toxic masculinity and wave scarcity. Spoiler: it’s not always about etiquette. Sometimes, it’s just ego. But we also share what beginners can do to hold their own—and how to keep progressing without the drama.

What do Japan, Iceland, and a stolen sandwich have in common? Freia. In this episode, we meet 25-year-old filmmaker and Arctic surfer Freia, whose unlikely surf journey started on a family vacation in Japan and eventually led her to the freezing lineups of Reykjavík. We talk about her first surf (and first eagle encounter), why she made a documentary about women in boardsports, and the quiet pressures female surfers still face in a male-dominated scene. From Hoddevika to equal pay in surf comps—this one’s a joy.

You’ve outgrown the whitewash—go you! But now you’re spending 25 minutes getting slammed by wave after wave, and the lineup still feels a mile away. In this episode, we break down why getting “out the back” is one of the hardest parts of beginner surfing—and how to actually get there without losing your board, your breath, or your will to surf. Turtle rolls, timing, channels, and the long, slow battle of building confidence. You belong out there. Let’s get you there.

Thinking about buying your first board? Hold up. Before you drop cash on gear, let’s talk about surf lessons—and why they might be the smarter first move. In this episode, we break down when a lesson is absolutely worth it, when coaching can help you level up fast, and how to avoid the overpriced traps. Whether you’re brand new or stuck in a whitewater rut, this is your shortcut to smarter (and safer) progression. No fluff, just real talk from someone who’s been there.