The Kite Pod

The Kite Pod #9 Matchu Lopes / Strapless Legend

Join us for an inspiring conversation with kiteboarding legend Matchu Lopez as he shares his journey from Cape Verde to international stardom, the challenges of travel and sponsorship, and his passion for wave riding and innovation in kiteboarding. Follow Matchu on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/matchu_lopes/ [Join us for an inspiring conversation with kiteboarding legend Matchu Lopez as he shares his journey from Cape Verde to international stardom, the challenges of travel and sponsorship, and his passion for wave riding and innovation in kiteboarding. Follow Matchu on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/matchu_lopes/]

The Kite Pod #8 Steven Akkersdijk / Full Circle

Summary In this engaging conversation, Rou Chater interviews kiteboarding expert Steven Akkersdijk, exploring various aspects of the sport, including the evolution of equipment, the transition from competition to coaching, and the impact of youth on risk-taking in kiteboarding. They discuss the art of filming and social media's role in the sport, as well as favourite kiteboarding locations and the rise of kite foiling and paragliding. Steven shares valuable advice for aspiring kiteboarders and outlines his future plans, emphasising the importance of taking time to learn and progress in the sport. Get coaching from Steven [https://stevenakkersdijk.com/] Follow Steven on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/stevenakkersdijk/?hl=en]

The Kite Pod #7: Gary Siskar / The Quiet Architect Who Helped Shape Modern Kiteboarding

In this episode, Rou sits down with Gary Siskar, a longtime industry insider whose influence runs deep through modern kiteboarding. From his early days in the Southern California surf and skate scene, to opening up northern Peru’s legendary left-handers, to helping bring kite foiling to the masses, Gary has been at the centre of the sport’s evolution for more than a decade. We unpack Gary’s unexpected path from surfing and skate culture into wind sports, his life-changing years in Peru, and the inside story of the Liquid Force Foil Fish—the first accessible foil that kick-started the hydrofoil movement. Gary also lifts the curtain on his work with Ride Engine, the rise of wing foiling, and why Hood River remains the beating heart of progression in wind sports. If you’re into kite surfing, foiling, gear innovation or just love hearing the stories behind the people who quietly shape the sport, this one’s a must-listen. Enjoy the episode, and don’t forget to follow, rate, and share. It really helps us grow the show. Follow Gary on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/s1sky/?hl=en-gb] Check out Ride Engine [https://rideengine.com/]

The Kite Pod #6: Lewis Crathern / Big Air Legend Signs With Harlem!

In this engaging conversation, Lewis Crathern shares his journey from being a prominent kiteboarder with Duotone to transitioning to Harlem, a smaller, sustainability-focused brand. He reflects on his memorable experiences with Duotone, the importance of community in kiteboarding, and the current state of the industry. Lewis emphasises the significance of engaging with young people through schools and advocates for wind energy, showcasing how kiteboarding can be a vehicle for positive change. The discussion also touches on the evolving landscape of kiteboarding competitions and the impact of social media on riders' careers. https://www.lewiscrathern.com/ [https://www.lewiscrathern.com/] Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/lewiscrathernkitesurfing]

The Kite Pod #5: Aaron Hadlow / The GOAT Reminisces, Lets Us Know Freestyle Is Coming Back and Talks About The Future!

In this engaging conversation, Aaron Hadlow reflects on his extensive career in kiteboarding, discussing his early experiences, competitive journey, and the evolution of the sport. He shares insights into the challenges of maintaining dominance in competitions, the transition to big air, and the impact of sponsorships. Aaron also delves into his recent move to Harlem, his involvement in product development, and the future of freestyle kiteboarding. The discussion highlights the versatility of kiteboarding and the importance of innovation in the sport.