

Surf Mastery - Surfing Tips and Wisdom for Lifelong Surfers
Michael Frampton
Are you finding it hard to get better at surfing, struggling to catch waves, negotiate the line up and understand surf culture?
This podcast that helps passionate lifelong surfers to catch more waves, surf with more speed, style, grace and to gain wisdom and confidence in the water
Discover why you aren't getting the most out of your surfing, the exact steps to take to improve, so you can develop not only your surfing, but also your relationship to surfing and the ocean.
The podcast shares lessons of my transformation from frustrated, below-average adult-surfer, to a confident, competent and respected surfer.
The podcast is a mix of long form interviews with the best surfers, surf coaches and industry leaders, and focused, shorter episodes with specific surfing tips.
Episodes 100, 108 and 111 are a great place to start.
This podcast that helps passionate lifelong surfers to catch more waves, surf with more speed, style, grace and to gain wisdom and confidence in the water
Discover why you aren't getting the most out of your surfing, the exact steps to take to improve, so you can develop not only your surfing, but also your relationship to surfing and the ocean.
The podcast shares lessons of my transformation from frustrated, below-average adult-surfer, to a confident, competent and respected surfer.
The podcast is a mix of long form interviews with the best surfers, surf coaches and industry leaders, and focused, shorter episodes with specific surfing tips.
Episodes 100, 108 and 111 are a great place to start.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Apr 18, 2025 • 30min
117 Surf Every Day: How DJ Morris Found Flow in Winter Waves
What happens when a lifelong connection to the ocean turns into a mission to surf every single day through winter? Whether you're a surfer, an ocean lover, or someone chasing consistency in your passions, this episode dives deep into the transformative power of daily dedication and the personal growth that comes from truly connecting with the ocean. If you've ever wondered how doing something every day could reshape your mindset, this is for you. Hear how DJ Morris turned his childhood love of the ocean into a thriving surf school and daily surfing ritual. Discover the surprising challenges and benefits of surfing every day through a New Zealand winter. Learn the biggest beginner mistakes in surfing—and how to actually pick the right board for your skill level and local waves. Tune in now to get inspired by DJ's story of ocean connection, consistency, and the joy of sharing surfing with others—this episode might just change the way you approach your own passions. Follow Dee Jay on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/deejaymorris/ Hawkes Bay Surf School: https://www.facebook.com/HawkesBaySurfSchool/ www.surfmastery.com Song - Fernweh By Nachur The Surf Mastery Podcast For the passionate surfer—whether you're a weekend warrior, a surf dad, or an older surfer—this podcast is all about better surfing and deeper stoke. With expert surf coaching, surf training, and surfing tips, we'll help you catch more waves, refine your paddling technique, and perfect your pop up on a surfboard. From surf workouts to handling wipeouts, chasing bigger waves, and mastering surf technique, we're here to make sure you not only improve but truly enjoy surfing more—so you can get more out of every session and become a wiser surfer. Go from Beginner or intermediate Surfer to advanced

Apr 10, 2025 • 57min
116 Maggie Dent - Parenting Boys With Backbone, Heart And Surfboards
Are you raising boys and wondering how to guide them through risk, resilience, and real conversations—without losing your mind or your connection with them? Navigating the journey from boyhood to manhood can feel like walking a tightrope—especially in today's digital, high-pressure world. This episode offers a refreshing, deeply insightful look into parenting boys with empathy, science, and solid boundaries—while still letting them crash, climb, and surf their way to growth. Learn the three foundational rules every parent should use to help kids make better choices and build integrity. Discover how movement, like a simple walk or shooting hoops, can open powerful pathways to communication with your son. Hear real-life stories of parenting wins (and fails) that show how warmth and structure build trust and resilience for life. How surfing helps to shape good men. Hit play now to discover how you can be the calm, connected parent your son turns to—no matter what. Great parenting advice, tips and stories with Maggie Dent. https://www.maggiedent.com The Surf Mastery Podcast For the passionate surfer—whether you're a weekend warrior, a surf dad, or an older surfer—this podcast is all about better surfing and deeper stoke. With expert surf coaching, surf training, and surfing tips, we'll help you catch more waves, refine your paddling technique, and perfect your pop up on a surfboard. From surf workouts to handling wipeouts, chasing bigger waves, and mastering surf technique, we're here to make sure you not only improve but truly enjoy surfing more—so you can get more out of every session and become a wiser surfer. Go from Beginner or intermediate Surfer to advanced

Apr 8, 2025 • 8min
115 Handling Aggressive Surfers: Surf Coaching Tactics for Confidence, Respect & More Waves
Have you ever been snaked, dropped in on, or steamrolled by an aggressive surfer who seems to think they own the ocean? Find it hard to deal with localism? Navigating the lineup isn't just about catching waves—it's about dealing with egos, entitlement, and sometimes flat-out intimidation. If you've ever felt powerless or frustrated by alpha surfers who constantly push the boundaries of etiquette, this episode offers a crucial shift in mindset and approach. Learn how to gain respect in the lineup—even from surf legends like Laird Hamilton. Discover the psychological principles behind why some surfers bully and how to respond effectively. Get practical tips for standing your ground calmly and confidently without escalating conflict. Hit play now to learn how to hold your own in the lineup and start catching the waves you deserve. www.surfmastery.com The Surf Mastery Podcast For the passionate surfer—whether you're a weekend warrior, a surf dad, or an older surfer—this podcast is all about better surfing and deeper stoke. With expert surf coaching, surf training, and surfing tips, we'll help you catch more waves, refine your paddling technique, and perfect your pop up on a surfboard. From surf workouts to handling wipeouts, chasing bigger waves, and mastering surf technique, we're here to make sure you not only improve but truly enjoy surfing more—so you can get more out of every session and become a wiser surfer. Go from Beginner or intermediate Surfer to advanced

Mar 27, 2025 • 42min
114 The Surfing Copywriter: How Passion and Strategy Can Power Your Surf Business
What happens when a lifelong surfer ditches big-name fashion brands to carve out a niche as the go-to copywriter for the surf industry? If you're a surf business owner juggling content, marketing, and your next session in the water, this episode is a must-listen. Discover how surfer and copywriter Lachlan Campbell turned his passion for surfing into a thriving business that helps other surf brands rise above the noise—and how you can do the same. Learn how to align your passion with your profession and create a business that truly fits your lifestyle. Discover the current marketing gaps in the surf industry—and how surf camps, product brands, and retreats can capitalize on them. Get practical insights into how AI is changing the copywriting game and what it means for small surf brands on tight budgets. Hit play now to learn how to elevate your surf brand with strategic, authentic storytelling from someone who truly speaks your language—waves and all. https://thesurfingcopywriter.com For more surfing tips and to join the Wave Catching Academy - www.surfmastery.com The Surf Mastery Podcast: For the passionate surfer—whether you're a weekend warrior, a surf dad, or an older surfer—this podcast is all about better surfing and deeper stoke. With expert surf coaching, surf training, and surfing tips, we'll help you catch more waves, refine your paddling technique, and perfect your pop up on a surfboard. From surf workouts to handling wipeouts, chasing bigger waves, and mastering surf technique, we're here to make sure you not only improve but truly enjoy surfing more—so you can get more out of every session and become a wiser surfer. Go from Beginner or intermediate Surfer to advanced

Mar 25, 2025 • 7min
113 How To Surf Bigger Waves + A Guide To Surfing Big Waves
Ever wonder what it really takes to paddle into Big waves and come out the other side stronger? If you've ever dreamed of pushing your limits in the surf but felt held back by fear, lack of preparation, or not knowing where to start—this episode offers a firsthand roadmap for transforming your surf game. Whether you're stuck at head-high or eyeing outer reefs, this story will speak to your desire for progression and confidence. Discover the essential mental and physical preparation that goes into surfing big waves—before you even hit the water. Learn how to manage fear and anxiety with proven breathwork techniques from a big-wave-specific training approach. Understand the importance of gear, local knowledge, and having the right mentor to elevate your surfing safely and powerfully. Press play now to learn how to train, prepare, and paddle into bigger waves with confidence and control—straight from a surfer who's done it. www.surfmastery.com For the passionate surfer—whether you're a weekend warrior, a surf dad, or an older surfer—this podcast is all about better surfing and deeper stoke. With expert surf coaching, surf training, and surfing tips, we'll help you catch more waves, refine your paddling technique, and perfect your pop up on a surfboard. From surf workouts to handling wipeouts, chasing bigger waves, and mastering surf technique, we're here to make sure you not only improve but truly enjoy surfing more—so you can get more out of every session and become a wiser surfer. Go from Beginner or intermediate Surfer to advanced.

Mar 20, 2025 • 6min
112: Mastering the Hardest Part of Surfing: Surf More Waves with Confidence
Struggling to catch more waves and improve your takeoff? The hardest part of surfing isn't turning or carving—it's everything that happens before you even stand up. But what if you could master that crucial phase? Most self-taught surfers hit a frustrating plateau because they don't fully understand wave reading, efficient paddling, or seamless pop-ups. Without these foundational skills, catching waves feels like a battle. This episode breaks down the real reasons behind your struggles and provides actionable fixes to transform your surfing experience. Learn how to develop an obsession with wave reading so you can predict and position yourself perfectly. Discover the key to efficient paddling and why a strong sprint paddle makes all the difference. Shift your mindset to see surfing as starting from the paddle-in, making your takeoffs smoother and more powerful. Listen now to gain the skills and knowledge to finally catch more waves with ease and confidence! www.surfmastery.com For the passionate surfer—whether you're a weekend warrior, a surf dad, or an older surfer—this podcast is all about better surfing and deeper stoke. With expert surf coaching, surf training, and surfing tips, we'll help you catch more waves, refine your paddling technique, and perfect your pop up on a surfboard. From surf workouts to handling wipeouts, chasing bigger waves, and mastering surf technique, we're here to make sure you not only improve but truly enjoy surfing more—so you can get more out of every session and become a wiser surfer. Go from Beginner or intermediate Surfer to advanced.

Mar 13, 2025 • 1h 34min
111 Surfing, Philosophy & the Search for Meaning: Longevity & Adventure with Aaron James
What if the key to how to surf better wasn't just in technique, but in how you think about the sport? Whether you're a beginner surfer learning the pop-up on a surfboard, a traveling surfer chasing bigger waves, or a weekend warrior looking to refine your surf positioning, your mindset shapes your experience in the water. In this episode, host Michael Frampton sits down with Aaron James—surfer, philosophy professor, and author—to explore the deeper meaning of surfing beyond the pursuit of perfection. Aaron shares how he evolved from high-performance surfing in world-class waves to embracing adventure surfing—a mindset that prioritizes connection with nature, uncrowded waves, and personal fulfillment over competition. Their conversation dives into surfing tips for longevity, movement, and mental resilience, touching on how surf trainingcan extend both your physical abilities and your love for the sport. They also explore the psychology of surfing positioning, the social dynamics of the lineup, and how surfing parallels music and dance as a form of self-transcendence. Shift your mindset on how to surf by redefining success beyond competition. Learn how philosophy applies to surfing, from the psychology of localism to the joy of riding waves for their own sake. Discover how surf coaching, surf workouts, and surf training can keep you surfing stronger for longer. Hit play now to rethink your approach to surfing, whether you're just starting out with beginner surfing or refining your surfing positioning in pursuit of bigger waves. Click this link to develop your own surfing philosophy: https://learn.surfmastery.com/the-philosophy-of-surfing www.surfmastery.com Aarons' books: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Aaron-James/author/B007CL9J5M?ref=ap_rdr&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=true Music: Marahau by Nachur Other books mentioned: The Mature Mind - Gene D. Cohen The Mindful Body - Ellen Langer The Surf Mastery Podcast: For the passionate surfer—whether you're a weekend warrior, a surf dad, or an older surfer—this podcast is all about better surfing and deeper stoke. With expert surf coaching, surf training, and surfing tips, we'll help you catch more waves, refine your paddling technique, and perfect your pop up on a surfboard. From surf workouts to handling wipeouts, chasing bigger waves, and mastering surf technique, we're here to make sure you not only improve but truly enjoy surfing more—so you can get more out of every session and become a wiser surfer. Go from Beginner or intermediate Surfer to advanced.

Mar 3, 2025 • 8min
110: 3 Unconventional Surfing Tips To Catch More Waves and Learn Fast
Surfing Tips for Beginners: The #1 Technique to Catch More Waves Instantly Join the Wave Catching Academy: https://learn.surfmastery.com/wave-catching-academy-1 Jason struggled to catch waves despite three months of experience. Most surf schools overcomplicate the learning process. The key to catching waves is matching their speed, not paddling harder. Three beginner tips: Change perspective: Think of surfing as dancing with the ocean, not fighting it. Wave selection: Choose strong, smooth white water waves with clean water in front. Stop paddling: Let the wave push the board—jump forward instead of paddling. Focus on these fundamentals before worrying about standing up. You Tube Vid: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QpEKf1cbT4Q Summary: This episode breaks down how beginner surfers can catch more waves with less effort. The story follows Jason, a struggling surfer who had been taught the wrong way. By focusing on timing and simplifying his approach, he caught more waves in one session than ever before. The key takeaways: shift your mindset to see waves as dance partners, learn proper wave selection, and stop unnecessary paddling. These three simple changes can drastically improve a beginner's ability to surf successfully. For the passionate surfer—whether you're a weekend warrior, a surf dad, or an older surfer—this podcast is all about better surfing and deeper stoke. With expert surf coaching, surf training, and surfing tips, we'll help you catch more waves, refine your paddling technique, and perfect your pop up on a surfboard. From surf workouts to handling wipeouts, chasing bigger waves, and mastering surf technique, we're here to make sure you not only improve but truly enjoy surfing more—so you can get more out of every session and become a wiser surfer. Go from Beginner or intermediate Surfer to advanced.

Feb 27, 2025 • 21min
109 How to Catch More Waves and Abolish Surfing Shame
https://learn.surfmastery.com/wave-catching-academy-1 If you've ever felt frustration, shame, or disappointment from missing waves, this episode provides actionable drills and insights to help you surf with more confidence and consistency. 3 key techniques that can help surfers at all levels improve their wave-catching ability: Mastering timing, overcoming the fear of falling, and dealing with the emotional fear of failure. For more wave catching tips visit www.surfmastery.com Click HERE to register or find out more about the Wave Catching Academy Tim Ferris - How I learned to Surf in 5 days: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1_c_FCTX0gk For the passionate surfer—whether you're a weekend warrior, a surf dad, or an older surfer—this podcast is all about better surfing and deeper stoke. With expert surf coaching, surf training, and surfing tips, we'll help you catch more waves, refine your paddling technique, and perfect your pop up on a surfboard. From surf workouts to handling wipeouts, chasing bigger waves, and mastering surf technique, we're here to make sure you not only improve but truly enjoy surfing more—so you can get more out of every session and become a wiser surfer. Go from Beginner or intermediate Surfer to advanced.

Feb 25, 2025 • 8min
108 Catching Waves - The Foundation of Good Surfing
https://learn.surfmastery.com/wave-catching-academy-1 https://surfmastery.com Catching Waves: From Surfing Anxiety and shame, to Confident Rides In this episode of the Surf Mastery Podcast, the host reveals his transformative journey in surfing—from struggling with how to surf to mastering techniques that allow him to catch more waves, even in challenging conditions with bigger waves. He discusses his evolution from an uncertain surfer to one who embraces effective surf coaching and hones his paddling technique, which proved essential for improving his performance. Listeners gain practical insights into how to surf confidently, overcome obstacles, and elevate their surfing skills for a truly rewarding experience. For more surfing tips visit www.surfmastery.com For the passionate surfer—whether you're a weekend warrior, a surf dad, or an older surfer—this podcast is all about better surfing and deeper stoke. With expert surf coaching, surf training, and surfing tips, we'll help you catch more waves, refine your paddling technique, and perfect your pop up on a surfboard. From surf workouts to handling wipeouts, chasing bigger waves, and mastering surf technique, we're here to make sure you not only improve but truly enjoy surfing more—so you can get more out of every session and become a wiser surfer. Go from beginner to intermediate to advanced surfer fast.


