Surfing: it’s all salty air, soul turns, and high vibes… until someone threatens to kill you in the lineup. 😬

In this episode, we’re diving deep into the nastiest part of surf culture—surf aggro. From parking lot punch-ups to ancient Hawaiian blood feuds (yep, that happened), we’re unpacking why such a blissful sport can bring out the worst in people.

Who gets the brunt of it? Beginners, women, and—apparently—the dreaded intermediates. We also ask the big questions: Is surf rage ever justified? And what should you do if it happens to you?

Part surf history, part cautionary tale, part cathartic vent. You might leave slightly more afraid of the ocean, but also way more prepared for it.

The waiting drove me mad. You're finally here and I'm a mess. That’s a lyric from Pearl Jam’s Corduroy, inspired by Eddie Vedder’s famously worn thrift-store jacket. But today, we’re not talking about 90s grunge fashion—or are we?

In surf speak, “corduroy” is pure poetry: a series of dreamy, evenly spaced swell lines rolling toward shore like velvet ribs from a high vantage point. In this episode, we unpack what causes those mesmerizing corduroy lines, why they signal great surf, and how distant storms thousands of miles away gift us the cleanest waves on Earth.

Also: did you know Eddie Vedder surfs? Of course he does.

Before you fall in love with surfing, you should probably know the truth. In this episode, we ask the question no one ever seems to ask before their first surf lesson: Is surfing actually for me?

Spoiler: it might not be. We talk about the emotional rollercoaster of learning to surf, the injuries, the cost, the localism, the stink eyes, and the endless learning curve that makes you question every life decision—until that one wave makes it all worth it.

Whether you’re thinking of trying surfing, are already in too deep, or just want to feel better about quitting—this one’s for you. From the creator of The Wipeout Weekly and Girls Who Can’t Surf Good, here’s your warning label, wrapped in love.

The surfer girl stories are back—and today we’re headed to Hawai‘i to meet Shantal, a Canadian transplant turned longboard devotee living on O‘ahu. She shares how surfing helped her build confidence, make deep friendships, and discover her love of mellow waves, cross-stepping, and the gentle art of cheering for your friends. From lineup jitters to dream boards and an upcoming surf retreat in Mexico, Shantal is the reminder we all need that kindness belongs in the lineup—and that surf joy multiplies when you share it.

Welcome to kookery class! In this episode, we unpack the surprisingly complicated origin of “kook,” one of surfing’s most beloved insults. Is it beatnik slang for “crazy”? Or does it come from the Hawaiian word for… well, poo? From Dorian "Doc" Paskowitz’s outdoor toilet at San Onofre to Wilbur Kookmeyer cartoons, kookboxes, and the infamous Cardiff Kook statue—this one’s got history, language, and a whole lot of surfer side-eye. And no, I will never write “how to avoid being a kook.” Promise.

Eddie would go. You’ve heard the phrase. Maybe you’ve shouted it at a mate or seen it scrawled across a T-shirt. But who was Eddie Aikau—and what does this iconic bit of surf culture actually mean?

In this episode, we dive into the life and legend of Eddie Aikau, the fearless Hawaiian lifeguard and big wave surfer who inspired generations with his courage, heart, and sacrifice. From his heroic rescues at Waimea Bay to the fateful voyage of the Hōkūleʻa, we explore how “Eddie would go” became more than a saying—it became a standard.

This one’s for the brave.

This week we’re back in Costa Rica to spotlight one of the most beginner-friendly surf towns on the planet—Nosara. Home to Playa Guiones, mellow waves, and laid-back vibes, Nosara is the kind of place where learning to surf feels like a vacation, not a battle. In this episode, we break down what makes Guiones so magical for new surfers, when to go, what to bring, and how to spend your off-board time (spoiler: there will be yoga and cocktails). Whether you’re planning your first surf trip or just dreaming of long rides and warm water, this one’s for you.

This one’s for every surfer who’s ever sat on the shoulder, watched a set roll through, and thought: Nope. In today’s episode, we talk about why that nope might actually be your greatest strength. Because sometimes hesitation isn’t fear—it’s wisdom. From wipeout anxiety to a cautionary tale involving gliders, ditches, and one very lucky landing, this is your reminder that trusting your gut isn’t cowardice—it’s smart surfing. Let fear protect you while you build the skills to surf like the fearless version of you (coming soon).

Here’s to the sassy and silver surfers who prove that it’s never too late to fall in love with surfing. In this episode, we meet Inessa, who took her first lesson just a month before turning 50—and found a whole new identity in the waves of Hawai’i.

From pearling every other wave to founding a global surf community for women over 50, Inessa’s journey is about courage, reinvention, and finding unexpected joy on a board. If you’ve ever wondered if it’s too late to start surfing—this one’s for you.

🏄‍♀️ Follow her movement and mindset tips for midlife and beyond on Instagram: @Sassy.n.Silver

It’s pop-up Wednesday, and we’re stealing secrets from the pros—frame by frame. In this episode, we break down what pro surfers actually do when they pop up (hint: it’s not all the same). From hand placement to foot sequencing and even Kelly Slater’s flutter kick, we’re diving into slow-mo analysis at the Surf Ranch to see what beginners like us can learn. If you’ve ever wondered why your pop-up feels like a car crash while theirs looks like ballet, this one’s for you. No knees allowed.