The Christian Surfers Podcast

In this inspiring episode, host Mark Sawyer-Chu sits down with professional surfer Jessie Van Niekerk as she opens up about the realities of life on the Challenger Series, the mental and emotional toll of elite competition, and how she stays grounded in faith through it all.Jessie gives us a behind-the-scenes look at navigating the surf world’s pressures, the importance of surrounding yourself with a solid support system, and why losing more than winning is part of the journey.We also dive into her entrepreneurial side - how she founded her plant-based protein bar brand, Bubble Out, born from a need for healthy fuel on the road - and her role on the Amazon Prime reality show "Surf Girls." Jessie shares how she uses every platform, including TV, to authentically share her values and glorify God.Whether you’re a young athlete, an aspiring entrepreneur, or just someone chasing a purpose, Jessie’s story will challenge and encourage you to stay true to who you are - even in the spotlight. Huge thanks to @trestlespropertymanagement and @almondsurfboards for helping make these podcast episodes happen.Did you enjoy the episode? If so, please consider donating to the Christian Surfers movement. As a non-profit organization, your donation will help us continue to create quality content, allowing more surfers around the globe to have the opportunity to know and follow Jesus. You can donate here: https://www.christiansurfers.net/donateFacebook: / csinternationalInstagram: / @christiansuurfers_

This week on the Christian Surfers Podcast, your host, Mark Sawyer-Chu, sits down with Hannah Leary from FCA Action Sports. Hannah serves as an Area Representative in the Carolinas, stepping into a role FCA had been praying to fill for over a decade.Her journey to this point is a powerful testament to God’s timing: though she grew up in the church, it wasn’t until a season of personal surrender - praying “send me anywhere” - that she fully committed her life to Jesus. Shortly after, her local church highlighted FCA, and doors swung open for her to bring the Gospel into the action sports world.In this conversation, we explore how FCA - a ministry historically known for football fields, basketball courts, and mainstream stick & ball sports - is now intentionally reaching every athlete, including surfers, skaters, and outdoor enthusiasts. Hannah shares how this expansion led to natural, kingdom-minded partnerships with ministries like Christian Surfers, working together to run Surf Church outreaches, serve at contests, and disciple young athletes.Huge thanks to @trestlespropertymanagement and @almondsurfboards for helping make these podcast episodes happen.Did you enjoy the episode? If so, please consider donating to the Christian Surfers movement. As a non-profit organization, your donation will help us continue to create quality content, allowing more surfers around the globe to have the opportunity to know and follow Jesus. You can donate here: https://www.christiansurfers.net/donate

Tim Foreman, bassist of the Grammy-winning band Switchfoot and a lifelong surfer, shares his unique journey through faith and music. He reflects on growing up as a pastor’s kid and how that shaped his life and career. Tim discusses the origins of the beloved Bro-Am surf event, his experiences surfing with legends like Rob Machado and Tom Curren, and insights from the documentary 'Fading West.' He also dives into his latest solo project, 'Bongo Chico,' revealing its heartfelt themes and the balance between touring and surfing.

In this episode of the Christian Surfers Podcast, host Mark Sawyer-Chu welcomes follower of Jesus, former WCT surfer, and WSL commentator - Jesse Mendes.Broadcasting from Amigo Studio in Oceanside, CA, Jesse opens up about his journey from São Paulo to the global surf stage, and more importantly, from childhood faith to a lifelong relationship with Jesus. From sharing waves with the world’s best to calling heats on the mic, Jesse has seen it all. But what stands out is his humble spirit, love for his wife Tati and his commitment to living out his faith in the surf industry.Did you enjoy the episode? If so, please consider donating to the Christian Surfers movement. As a non-profit organization, your donation will help us continue to create quality content, allowing more surfers around the globe to have the opportunity to know and follow Jesus. You can donate here: https://www.christiansurfers.net/donate

The 23rd annual Tommy Tant Memorial Surf Classic (https://www.instagram.com/tommytant/) in Flagler Beach, FL just wrapped!   It’s easily one of the longest-running, community surf contests in Florida with a greater purpose. In this raw and real episode, host Mark Sawyer-Chu sits down with former pro surfer, speaker, and brother in Christ, Will Tant, at his new home in Flagler Beach. Together, they reflect on Will’s powerful journey from the rebellious currents of surf culture to the steady anchor of faith in Jesus.Will opens up about growing up in the tight-knit surf town of Flagler, the deep bond he shared with his brother Tommy, and the devastating loss that turned his world upside down. He candidly shares how grief led him to wrestle with God, eventually finding peace—not through perfection but through grace and community.From his early surf film days to giving up the sport he loved, being diagnosed with a heart condition, and slowly returning to both surfing and faith, Will’s story is raw, real, and redemptive. This episode is a moving testimony to the power of Christian community, the importance of belonging, and the unwavering hope found in Christ—even in the darkest waves.Did you enjoy the episode? If so, please consider donating to the Christian Surfers movement. As a non-profit organization, your donation will help us continue to create quality content, allowing more surfers around the globe to have the opportunity to know and follow Jesus. You can donate here: https://www.christiansurfers.net/donateFacebook:   / csinternational   Instagram:   / @christiansuurfers_   #TalkStoryPodcast#WillTant#ChristianSurfers#FaithAndSurf#FromLostToFound#TommyTantMemorial#SurfTestimony#JesusAndSurfing#GospelInTheWaves#HopeAfterLoss#FaithJourney#SurfCulture

In this episode, Mark Sawyer-Chu interviews Jacob Galura, Southeast Regional Coordinator for Christian Surfers USA, about the growth of surf ministry across Florida and beyond. From leading international mission trips for CSUS, to launching new chapters in legacy surf tows like Cocoa Beach, Jacob shares his heart for using surf culture to share the message of Jesus.Did you enjoy the episode? Please consider donating Jacob or the Christian Surfers movement. As a non-profit organization, your donation will help us continue to create quality content, allowing more surfers around the globe to have the opportunity to know and follow Jesus. You can donate here: https://www.christiansurfers.net/donatehttps://christiansurfers.com/donate-to-missionaries/

In this inspiring episode of the Christian Surfers Podcast, host Mark Sawyer-Chu sits down with former pro surfer, fitness coach, and WSL Championship Tour Manager, Kayla Durden. Recorded at Shoreline Church in San Clemente Kayla opens up about her journey of faith, life in professional surfing, and how her identity in Christ has grounded her through it all.From her appearance on ABC’s The Ultimate Surfer to her work pioneering Rising Tides in women's surfing, Kayla shares the highs, challenges, and divine appointments that have shaped her story. Hear how she balances her career in the surf industry, personal discipleship, and bold witness for Jesus in spaces not always open to faith.Whether you're a surfer, believer, or someone navigating identity and calling, this episode offers real talk on purpose, pressure, and keeping Christ at the center.Did you enjoy the episode? If so, please consider donating to the Christian Surfers movement. As a non-profit organization, your donation will help us continue to create quality content, allowing more surfers around the globe to have the opportunity to know and follow Jesus. You can donate here: https://www.christiansurfers.net/donateFacebook:   / csinternational   Instagram:   / @christiansuurfers_

In this deep and encouraging episode of Christian Surfers Podcast, host Mark Sawyer-Chu sits down with Dave Allee, founder of the iconic Almond Surfboards brand in Costa Mesa, California.What starts as a conversation about surfboards quickly turns into an inspiring story of faith, family, creativity, and community. Dave shares how growing up two blocks from the shop's current location shaped his passion for surf culture, craftsmanship, and purpose.We dive into the early days of garage board-building with his dad, the values behind Almond’s beloved "Early & Often Surf Club", and how his faith in Jesus subtly weaves through everything from brand ethos to board design.Whether you're a lifelong surfer or just someone seeking a meaningful life anchored in purpose, this episode invites you to consider how your faith can shape your craft—and how surfing can draw you closer to the Creator. If you enjoyed this episode, please consider donating to the Christian Surfers movement. As a non-profit organization, your donation will help us continue to create quality content, allowing more surfers around the globe to have the opportunity to know and follow Jesus. You can donate here: https://www.christiansurfers.net/donate

Mark Sawyer-Chu sits down with pro surfer Alyssa Spencer to talk faith, surfing, and what it means to stay grounded in God while chasing waves around the world.Alyssa opens up about her journey of faith, from growing up in a faith-based home to finding a personal relationship with Jesus through youth group and real-life experiences. She shares how her favorite verse, 1 Corinthians 16:14 – “Let all you do be done in love”, shapes her approach to life both in and out of the water.We dive into the highs and lows of professional surfing - from travel and competition stress to the brutal mid-year tour cuts - and how Alyssa stays rooted in her identity in Christ through it all.Did you enjoy the episode? If so, please consider donating to the Christian Surfers movement. As a non-profit organization, your donation will help us continue to create quality content, allowing more surfers around the globe to have the opportunity to know and follow Jesus. You can donate here: https://www.christiansurfers.net/donate

In this episode, host Mark Sawyer-Chu, aka The Stoke Life, is joined by Raul Espinoza, a key leader in the global Christian Surfers familia.Recorded in a living room in Florida, this is a deep dive into God's incredible faithfulness. Raul shares his powerful testimony of discovering surfing and Christian Surfers in his 40s during a difficult season. Through the radical love of Christian Surfers Peru, he found reconciliation with Jesus, experienced healing, and even met his wife.Now serving as Area Director for the entire Americas, Raul shares exciting updates on God's movement across the continents. He tells amazing stories of divine appointments, like a trip to Colombia that led to a new church plant and a thriving CS chapter.Raul also keeps it real about challenges and how we can pray. This episode is both a huge encouragement and a vision-caster for what God is doing. Press play and get stoked!🌐 Please consider donating to the Christian Surfers movement. As a nonprofit organization, your support will help us continue creating quality content and give more surfers around the globe the opportunity to know and follow Jesus. You can donate here: https://www.christiansurfers.net/donate