The Temple of Surf – The Podcast | Vicky Durand: Telling the Story of a Surfing Pioneer

Welcome to a new episode of The Temple of Surf – The Podcast, where we explore the untold stories of surfing's most inspiring voices. Today’s guest is Vicky Durand, surfer, writer, and daughter of the legendary Wave Woman, Betty Pembroke Heldreich. Vicky is the author of Wave Woman: The Life and Struggles of a Surfing Pioneer, a powerful memoir and biography that pays tribute to her trailblazing mother who defied norms, chased waves, and lived fearlessly in post-war Hawaii.

In this episode, we dive deep into the world of women’s surfing history, the roots of surf culture in Waikiki, and the remarkable life of Betty, who became one of the first women to break into the male-dominated surf scene of the 1950s. Vicky shares intimate insights into her mother’s incredible journey, from competitive canoe racing and art to big wave surfing and entrepreneurship. More than just a biography, Wave Woman is a story of determination, resilience, and the powerful bond between mother and daughter.

Vicky opens up about the process of writing the book and preserving her mother’s legacy through storytelling. We discuss the challenges of documenting women’s contributions to surfing history and how important it is to keep those stories alive. This conversation is a heartfelt reminder of the pioneering women who helped shape modern surf culture.

You’ll hear about the golden days of Waikiki, surfing Makaha in its early years, and how Betty's fearless spirit inspired generations of women to paddle out with confidence. Vicky also shares her own experiences growing up in Hawaii, surfing alongside her mom, and navigating a world where women had to fight for recognition in the lineup.

Whether you're a surfer, a historian, or simply someone who loves powerful stories about women breaking barriers, this episode will leave you inspired. It’s a celebration of female resilience in a world that didn’t always welcome it—and a testament to how storytelling can preserve heritage, ignite courage, and honor those who came before us.

🔔 Don’t forget to subscribe to The Temple of Surf – The Podcast for more interviews with surf legends, authors, shapers, and watermen and women from around the globe.

📚 Learn more about Wave Woman and Vicky Durand’s work at wavewomanbook.com

🎧 Available on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms.

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