WeSurf BIPOC Surf Talk

Blue Prescription with Demaris Morales

Blue Prescribing: When the Ocean Becomes Care aka The Data Behind the Stoke On this episode of the WeSurf Podcast, we sit down with surf health researcher Damaris Morales to explore the growing intersection between surfing, health, and healing. Together, we unpack how surfing can function as more than just a sport or lifestyle—it can serve as a powerful public health intervention with measurable impacts on both mental and physical well-being. From stress reduction and emotional regulation to community connection and trauma recovery, Damaris breaks down the science behind why time in the ocean can profoundly affect the body and mind. The conversation also explores the future of surf therapy, the research helping legitimize it within healthcare spaces, and what it could mean for surfing to one day be recognized as a preventative health practice and therapeutic tool. This episode is a deep dive into the healing potential of the ocean and the growing movement to position surfing as a pathway toward wellness, resilience, and accessible care.  Sound bites:  "Surfing could be a powerful tool for prevention, healing, and equity." "During a surf session, the energy expenditure is quite vigorous." "The ocean helps us do a reset, physically and mentally." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Surfing as Medicine 02:55 Personal Connection to Surfing 05:22 Inspiration for Surf Research 07:58 Research Overview and Methodology 10:50 Findings on Energy Expenditure in Surfing 13:15 Comparing Surfing to Other Physical Activities 15:52 The Psychological Benefits of Surfing 18:47 Implications for Public Health 21:31 Future Directions in Surf Research 27:43 Research Methodology in Surfing Studies 30:44 Expanding the Scope of Surfing Research 32:32 Surfing as a Prescription for Wellbeing 35:48 Debunking Myths About Surfing and Health 43:41 Personal Insights on Surfing Preferences 49:38 The Future of Surf Therapy and Community Engagement  resources Blue Mind by Dr. Wallace J. Nichols - https://www.amazon.com/Blue-Mind-Surprising-Healthier-Connected/dp/0316252115 [https://ttps//www.amazon.com/Blue-Mind-Surprising-Healthier-Connected/dp/0316252115] International Surf Therapy Organization - https://intlsurftherapy.org/ [https://intlsurftherapy.org/] Dr. Jamie Marshall - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamie-marshall-a9b755112/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamie-marshall-a9b755112/] Surf Lab at Edinburgh Napier University - https://surflab.ac/ [https://surflab.ac/] Damaris Morales - Surf Health Research - https://damarismorales-surfhealth.com [https://damarismorales-surfhealth.com] Guest Links:  LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/damarismorales/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/damarismorales/] Website - https://damarismorales-surfhealth.com [https://damarismorales-surfhealth.com]

Through the Lens with Eli Jules

In this episode of WeSurf, Kwame and Nigel sit down with filmmaker and surfer Eli Jules for a conversation that moves far beyond the lineup. From the shores of St. Lucia to the evolving global surf landscape, Eli shares how the ocean shaped his identity—and how the camera became his way of translating that experience into something lasting. He explores the power of creative disruption: what it means to challenge who gets seen in ocean culture, who gets to tell the story, and how those stories are framed. Eli opens up about the responsibility of documenting Caribbean aquatic culture not as backdrop, but as living culture—rich with history, memory, and meaning. This episode is about shifting perspectives, reclaiming narrative, and building a visual language that reflects truth, not stereotype. Because when you change the story, you don’t just change how we see the ocean—you change how we see each other. @islandlensmediainc [https://www.instagram.com/islandlensmediainc/] - IG www.islandlensmedia.com [https://www.islandlensmedia.com] https://youtube.com/@islandlensmedia?si=BgMV7TNxtfZZPKsK [https://youtube.com/@islandlensmedia?si=BgMV7TNxtfZZPKsK] The WeSurf Podcast is recorded by WTF Studios and is produced and distributed by The Swell Season Surf Radio Podcast Network.

Around the World in 80 waves with Yvettte Cave

In the latest episode of the We Surf podcast, Kwame dives deep into a conversation with Yvette Cave, a passionate surfer and founder of Wave Wahinis. Yvette shares her unique journey into surfing, the creation of a supportive community for female surfers, and her quest to address representation in the sport. Yvette was awarded the Churchill Fellowship, allowing her to travel and study surf culture globally in the hope to extend it to the UK. Her journey extends from New York to California, Hawaii, and Australia, and finally to India and Sri Lanka. She aims to explore how different cultures engage with surfing and advocate for greater inclusivity. Follow here on Substack: https://substack.com/@yvettewavewahines [https://substack.com/@yvettewavewahines] And her Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yvette__cave/  [https://www.instagram.com/yvette__cave/] Sound Bites "Surfing is about learning to listen""Surf like a girl, powered by love""The ocean has given me my husband" The WeSurf Podcast is recorded by WTF Studios and is produced and distributed by The Swell Season Surf Radio Podcast Network. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Surfing and Its Cultural Significance 01:54 Yvette's Journey into Surfing 04:47 The Formation of Wave Wahinis 07:32 Exploring the Churchill Fellowship 09:52 Representation in Surfing 12:53 Overcoming Fear and Building Confidence in Surfing 15:28 The Impact of Surfing on Personal Lives 18:21 The Ocean as a Connector 21:10 Future Aspirations and Goals in Surfing 24:05 The Power of Surfing and Community 26:53 Closing Thoughts and Reflections

Spin Cycle with Chelsea Woody

In this episode of the WeSurf Podcast, host Kwame La Bassiere speaks with Chelsea Woody about her short film 'Spin Cycle,' which explores the themes of motherhood, surfing, and the cyclical nature of life. Chelsea shares her journey of balancing her roles as a mother and a surfer, the creative process behind her film, and the importance of representation in the surfing community. The conversation highlights the resilience required in both surfing and motherhood, and encourages listeners to embrace their vulnerabilities and pursue their passions. Takeaways The film 'Spin Cycle' reflects the cycles of life and surfing.Motherhood and surfing require a delicate balance.Representation in surfing is crucial for future generations.Vulnerability in surfing can lead to personal growth.It's important to allow oneself grace in the learning process.The ocean serves as a reset for both body and mind.Creativity can flourish even in challenging times.Community support is vital for mothers who surf.It's never too late to pursue your passions.Sharing stories and experiences can inspire others. Sound bites "It's never too late to try something new.""You have to allow yourself grace in surfing.""Surfing is about the cycles we return to." The WeSurf Podcast is recorded by WTF Studios and is produced and distributed by The Swell Season Surf Radio Podcast Network. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to WeSurf Podcast and New Format 02:11 Exploring Spin Cycle: Concept and Creation 04:45 Balancing Motherhood and Surfing 07:19 The Cyclical Nature of Surfing and Life 10:27 Vision and Planning for Spin Cycle 13:20 Representation of Black Moms in Surfing 16:26 Takeaways for Surfers and Non-Surfers 18:28 The Importance of Vulnerability in Surfing 20:24 Navigating Perfection in Surfing as a Woman of Color 22:23 Community and Growth in Surfing 23:03 The Influence of Music and Personal Connections 24:15 Documenting Maternal Health and Surfing 26:31 Encouraging Representation in Surfing Media 27:16 Celebrating Sisterhood in Surfing 29:28 Resilience in Surfing and Life

The Ocean Knows Her Name with Maizy Gordon

In this episode of the WeSurf Podcast, Kwame La Bassiere and co-host Farmata Dia welcome 14-year-old surfing sensationThe Marvelous Ms. Maizy Gordon. They delve into Maizy's early beginnings in surfing, inspired by her sister, and her journey from overcoming initial fears to becoming a competitive surfer. Maizy shares her experiences in various competitions, including the National Scholastic Surfing Association series, highlighting the challenges and triumphs she faced along the way. The conversation also explores the influence of her entire family, including her cousin Makani, who taught her the importance of style and flow in surfing and her coaches John Daniels  and sponsors Salt Life and Tony Perez who in Maizy’s own words “took a chance on me before I was even making finals”. Throughout the episode, Maizy emphasizes the joy and freedom she finds in surfing, balancing the competitive aspects with the sheer fun of the sport. Her story is a testament to the power of passion, perseverance, and the support of a strong community. There is also a little music break to listen to one of Maizy’s favorite songs Takeaways     •    Maizy started surfing at age 10, inspired by her sister.     •    Her first surfing experience was challenging but rewarding.     •    Maizy emphasizes the importance of having fun in surfing.    •    She has been coached by John Daniels throughout her career.     •    Maizy's cousin Makani taught her the style and flow of surfing.     •    She is sponsored by Salt Life     •    Maizy's favorite surfing spots include Huntington Beach.     •    She balances shortboarding and longboarding for versatility.     •    Maizy is inspired by surfers like John Florence, Carissa Moore, Caity Simmers and a local CA           surfer Reid Van Wagoner     •    Her goals include improving her skills and enjoying the sport. Sound bites "The ocean knows her name." "Surfing is my escape." "A win is a win.""I love surfing." "It's all about the vibes.""Stay true to yourself." "Surfing is about having fun.""I want to surf my best." "The waves were actually good." "I love food." Chapters Introduction and Welcome Maizy's Surfing Journey Competing and Challenges Inspiration and Mentors Balancing Fun and Competition Future Goals and Aspirations