Paul Neilsen: Gold Coast Royalty, Bells Beach Glory & the Birth of Brothers Neilsen

Building a Dream in Fiji | Tappa's Green Room EP40

This episode is sponsored by Official Beer Co. Produced by Podfire In this episode of Tappa’s Green Room, Terry “Tappa” Teece sits down with Brian and Donna McDonald, the duo behind a stunning surf resort in Fiji. What started as a simple dream of owning a tropical getaway quickly evolved into a decades-long journey of hard work, risk, and passion. The conversation dives into how a spontaneous land purchase turned into a fully functioning surf resort built largely by hand, the realities of running an off-grid operation, and the challenges of working within local communities and environments. Brian and Donna share stories of early struggles, learning to build from scratch, and creating a sustainable surf destination that now attracts visitors from around the world. They also explore the world-class waves surrounding the resort, including the powerful Frigates break, and reflect on the deep connections formed with local Fijian communities. From teaching locals to surf to building long-term staff relationships, this episode highlights that the dream lifestyle comes with relentless effort—but incredible rewards.

Secrets to Longevity with Dr. Christina Degano Pomar and Felipe Pomar | EP39

This episode is sponsored by Official Beer Co. Produced by Podfire. In Episode 39 of The Green Room, Tappa is joined by Dr. Christina Pomar alongside legendary surfer and 1965 World Champion Felipe Pomar to dive deeper into the mission behind their movement “Surf Till 100.” Christina, a doctor of natural medicine, PhD in holistic nutrition, advanced yoga teacher, and longevity researcher, shares the science and philosophy behind extending not just lifespan — but healthspan. The conversation explores everything from stem cells and arterial cleansing to the powerful role belief, lifestyle, and mindset play in how long and how well we live. Christina explains how stem cells work in the body, how plaque forms in arteries, and the natural approaches she believes can support regeneration and long-term health. The discussion also touches on her own research into biological aging, the role of epigenetics, and the concept that belief and environment may influence our biology more than genetics alone. Felipe shares how discipline, daily routines, and purpose continue to fuel his surfing well into his 80s, while Christina reveals how certain health protocols helped support his vitality and performance in the water. Together, they break down the foundations of their Surf Till 100 philosophy — a blend of mindset, discipline, lifestyle habits, and natural health strategies aimed at keeping surfers active and thriving for decades. If you’ve ever wondered how to keep paddling out well into your later years, this episode is packed with ideas, inspiration, and a fresh perspective on longevity.

83 Years & Charging: Felipe Pomar's Journey From Peru To Pipeline | Tappa's Green Room EP38

This episode is sponsored by Official Beer Co. Produced by Podfire. From pioneering big waves in 1950s Peru to surviving a tsunami at sea, this is one of the wildest stories ever told in The Green Room. In Episode 38, Tappa sits down with 1965 International Surfing Federation World Champion Felipe Pomar — a true surfing trailblazer. Felipe shares what it was like surfing 8–12ft waves at just 14 years old on a 9’6” balsa board, exploring uncrowded Peruvian coastlines with Surfer Magazine founder John Severson, and carving out his reputation on Hawaii’s North Shore in the early 60s — long before leashes, jet skis, or crowds. He relives winning the first official ISF World Title, competing head-to-head with Nat Young, turning down a Hollywood acting offer from MGM, and training for the biggest waves of his life. But the heart-stopping moment? Being caught in the ocean during a massive earthquake that triggered a tsunami — paddling through whirlpools, 6–8ft chaotic chop, and watching a fishing boat launched into cliffs — before barely making it to shore. Now 83 and still charging big waves on an 11’8” stand-up board, Felipe shares his “Surf Till 100” philosophy — the training, nutrition, recovery and mindset that keeps him fit, fearless, and stoked. This one is pure surfing history — and proof that age is just another wave to ride.

Robert ‘Bushy’ Mitchell: The Administrator, The Surfer, The Mentor | Tappa's Green Room Podcast EP37

This episode is brought to you by Official Beer Co. Produced by Podfire. In Episode 37 of Tappa’s Green Room, Tappa sits down with one of the most influential figures in Australian surfing history — Robert “Bushy” Mitchell. From growing up on a rural farm near the Victorian–NSW border to discovering surfing at Moffat Beach, Bushy’s journey mirrors the grassroots evolution of competitive surfing in Australia. As long-time President of Surfing Queensland, former CEO, and Surfing Australia’s first Chair, Bushy almost single-handedly carried the sport through its formative decades. This episode dives deep into untold stories from the 1970s through the 1990s, the long road trips, the volunteer grind, iconic surfers, early big-wave safety, and the people who shaped the sport. A masterclass in leadership, service, and passion — and a must-listen for anyone who loves surfing beyond the lineup.

Paul Neilsen: Gold Coast Royalty, Bells Beach Glory & the Birth of Brothers Neilsen

In Episode 36 of Tappa’s Green Room, Terry “Tappa” Teece sits down with Australian surfing legend Paul Neilsen for a deep dive into the formative years of professional surfing on the Gold Coast and beyond. From growing up in a near-empty Surfers Paradise and borrowing boards as a kid, to charging Hawaiian waves, winning Bells Beach in 1971, and taking out the prestigious Smirnoff Pro-Am, Paul reflects on an era before leg ropes, sponsorship hype, and crowded line-ups. The conversation also explores the rise of Brothers Neilsen Surfboards, the shaping bays of Mermaid Beach, and what it meant to be part of surfing’s first true professional generation—driven by passion, community, and fearless commitment. Episode Sponsored by Official Beer Co. Produced by Podfire.