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Explore every episode of the podcast Confessions of a Surf Lady | The First Women's Surfing Podcast™

Dive into the complete episode list for Confessions of a Surf Lady | The First Women's Surfing Podcast™. Each episode is cataloged with detailed descriptions, making it easy to find and explore specific topics. Keep track of all episodes from your favorite podcast and never miss a moment of insightful content.

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TitlePub. DateDuration
76. 🏄‍♀️ Member Spotlight: How Chey Built Resilience and Confidence in Notoriously Aggressive Santa Cruz Lineups28 Sep 202500:28:50

What does it take to keep showing up—no matter what life throws your way? Chey’s story will leave you inspired. As a mother, a surfer living with MS, and a woman paddling out in Santa Cruz’s notoriously aggressive lineups, she reminds us that strength isn’t about perfection—it’s about choosing joy, resilience, and community.

In this episode of Confessions of a Surf Lady, The First Women’s Surfing Podcast™, I talk with Chey, a Surf Société member whose journey spans from growing up around lakes in Canada to raising a family that surfs together in Mexico and now living in Santa Cruz. Along the way, she’s navigated health challenges, learned how to read the ocean, and discovered the confidence it takes to hold her ground in one of the world’s most aggressive surf lineups.

Chey’s story is a reminder that surfing is layered, personal, and ever-changing. Through The Surf Société, she’s found not just skills and knowledge, but a supportive community of women who celebrate each other’s wins. From reflecting on tough sessions to choosing joy in the lineup, her perspective will inspire you to keep going, keep learning, and keep protecting your stoke.

Main Themes

  • Surfing as a Lifelong Journey
    Chey shares her path from early water experiences in Canada to surf trips in Costa Rica and Mexico, and finally finding home in California.
  • Confidence in the Lineup
    From Santa Cruz aggression to run-ins with entitled surfers, Chey explains how she’s learned to protect her energy and hold her ground.
    “You can choose to paddle in—you’re not giving into them, you’re protecting your positive experience.”
  • The Power of Community and Knowledge
    Chey describes how Surf Société gave her confidence, ocean knowledge, and a sisterhood where everyone’s progress feels like a shared win.

Show Resources

How to Support the Podcast

  1. 💙 Support our sponsors – They help keep this show going.
  2. 🛍 Shop Surf Société – Support women-centered surfwear and community.
  3. ⭐ Leave a Review – Help more women find us on Apple Podcasts & Spotify.
  4. 📲 Share this episode – Send it to a surf sister who needs to hear it.

Send me a Message! Be sure to leave your contact info.

Support the show

Confessions of a Surf Lady, women's surfing podcast, is supported by The Surf Société, our unique digital women's surfing platform where we come together to Learn More. Surf Better. Live Happy. Learn more at Surfsociete.com

75. Stronger Than Ever: The Joy of Surfing Over 50 with Sassy Silver Surfers23 Sep 202500:43:43

What does it feel like to paddle out in your fifties, sixties, or even seventies? For the women of the Sassy Silver Surfers Club, it feels like freedom. It feels like strength. And most of all, it feels like proof that surfing doesn’t have an age limit.

In this episode of Confessions of a Surf Lady, The First Women’s Surfing Podcast™, I’m joined by co-founders Lisa Alfano and Inessa Love, who started surfing later in life and quickly realized how few role models they saw in the lineup. Together, they created the Sassy Silver Surfers—a vibrant community for women 50+ who are showing up with courage, joy, and inspiration.

Through heartfelt confessions from their members, Lisa and Inessa share stories of women who started surfing at 57, became instructors in their fifties, and even returned to the waves at 72. These are stories of resilience, self-discovery, and the wisdom that comes from embracing life fully at every stage.

This is a conversation that will make you laugh, tear up, and walk away believing that your best waves may still be ahead of you.

Main Themes

  • Redefining Surfing After 50
    Lisa and Inessa share their personal journeys—one from triathlons, the other from Hawaii—and how they built a thriving community that proves surfing isn’t just for the young.
  • Challenging Ageism in Surf Culture
    The women of Sassy Silver Surfers are breaking stereotypes and pushing back against the idea that you’re “too old” to surf. Their stories show how visibility creates change.
  • The Power of Community
    From laughter to tears, their group is living proof that women thrive together. Community provides encouragement, role models, and the space to grow at any age.

Guest Resources

Show Resources

How to Support the Podcast

  1. 💙 Support our sponsors – They help keep this show going.
  2. 🛍 Shop Surf Société – Support women-centered surfwear and community.
  3. ⭐ Leave a Review – Help more women find us on Apple Podcasts & Spotify.
  4. 📲 Share this episode – Send it to a surf sister who needs to hear it.

Send me a Message! Be sure to leave your contact info.

Support the show

Confessions of a Surf Lady, women's surfing podcast, is supported by The Surf Société, our unique digital women's surfing platform where we come together to Learn More. Surf Better. Live Happy. Learn more at Surfsociete.com

67. Stuck in Your Surfing? Train Your Mind to Surf Better with Visualization02 May 202500:23:20

Why is it so fucking hard to get better at surfing? Unlike other sports, you don’t get unlimited reps. Every wave is different, every session is unpredictable, and by the time you realize you wanted to do a turn or a cross-step—the moment is already gone.

But what if you could train your surfing without even getting in the water? That’s where visualization comes in. In this episode of Confessions of a Surf Lady: The First Women’s Surfing Podcast™, I’m breaking down how visualization works, the science behind it, and how you can use it to sharpen your skills, make faster decisions in the lineup, and actually land the maneuvers you’ve been struggling with—no matter how often you surf or what kind of waves you have access to.

Inside The Surf Société, we’ve created a structured process for visualization so you can actually apply it to your surfing, with step-by-step guidance from sports mental trainer, Jana Fogaça. If you’re ready to stop feeling stuck and start progressing faster than you thought possible, this episode is for you.

Main Themes

  • Why Surfing Progress is So Slow & Frustrating
    “In surfing, you don’t get 100 reps. You’re lucky if you get 10 waves in a session—and every one of them is different.” – Laura Day
  • The Science Behind Visualization & Why It Works
    “Your brain doesn’t know the difference between real movement and imagined movement.” – Laura Day
  • How to Use Visualization for Surfing Progression
    “If you visualize a movement over and over again, your body will follow through when it’s time.” – Laura Day
  • Success Stories: How Surfers Are Using Visualization to Level Up
    “One of our Surf Société members visualized herself winning her first competition—and she did.” – Laura Day
  • How The Surf Société Teaches You Structured Visualization
    “We don’t just tell you to visualize—we give you a process to make it work for you.” – Laura Day

Resources

  • Join The Surf Société – Learn how to use visualization to improve your surfing with structured guidance inside The Surf Société. Try it free for a week! Join Here.
  • Follow Me on Instagram – Say hi and join the conversation at @confessionsofasurflady.
  • Watch Our Visualization Workshop – Get access to our sports mental training session with Jana Fogaça inside The Surf Société.

How to Support the Podcast

  1. Leave a Review – Help more women surfers find Confessions of a Surf Lady by rating us on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.
  2. Share with a Friend – If this episode resonated with you, send it to a surf sister who might need it.
  3. Join The Surf Société – Get expert guidance, live workshops, and a supportive community to take your surfing to the next level.
  4. Support Our Sponsors – Thoughtfully chosen brands that support women’s surfing help keep this podcast going.
  5. Shop Surf Société – Grab surf-inspired gear and essentials at shop.surfsociete.com.

Send me a Message! Be sure to leave your contact info.

Support the show

Confessions of a Surf Lady, women's surfing podcast, is supported by The Surf Société, our unique digital women's surfing platform where we come together to Learn More. Surf Better. Live Happy. Learn more at Surfsociete.com

66. Fear, Injury & Getting Back to Surfing: A Guide to Healing & Confidence25 Mar 202500:41:14

What happens when an injury keeps you out of the water for weeks—or even months? If you’ve ever been sidelined from surfing, you know how frustrating it can be, both physically and mentally. When I injured my knee in Baja, my biggest fear wasn’t just missing surf—it was wondering if I’d ever feel 100% again.

Enter Dr. Alexis Piarulli, chiropractor and movement specialist, who not only helped me rehab my injury but also shifted my mindset around healing, movement, and longevity in surfing. In this episode of Confessions of a Surf Lady: The First Women’s Surfing Podcast™, we talk about staying strong, preventing injuries, and overcoming fear after time out of the water. Plus, Alexis shares the small but powerful things you can do to keep surfing for years to come.

Main Themes:

  • The Fear of Long-Term Injury in Surfing: "My biggest fear wasn’t just the injury—it was wondering if I’d always have a chronic issue.” – Laura Day
  • Healing is Physical, But Also Mental: “Your mindset is the biggest factor in how well you heal.” – Dr. Alexis Piarulli
  • How to Surf for Decades Without Breaking Down: “I want to surf when I’m 80. That means taking care of my body now.” – Dr. Alexis Piarulli
  • The Power of Community in Surfing & Healing: “Having a support group in the water made all the difference when I paddled back out.” – Laura Day

Resources:

  • Follow Dr. Alexis Piarulli – Get surf-specific mobility and rehab tips at @fearlessmovementrehab.
  • Watch Alexis’ Workshops in The Surf Société – Learn movement techniques to keep your body strong and injury-free inside The Surf Société.
  • Join The Surf Société – Our women's surfing community is here to help you learn more, surf better, and live happy. Try it free for a week! Join Here.

How to Support the Podcast

  1. Leave a Review – Help more women surfers find Confessions of a Surf Lady by rating us on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.
  2. Share with a Friend – If this episode resonated with you, send it to a surf sister who might need it.
  3. Join The Surf Société – Get expert guidance, live workshops, and a supportive community to take your surfing to the next level.
  4. Support Our Sponsors – Thoughtfully chosen brands that support women’s surfing help keep this podcast going.
  5. Shop Surf Société – Grab surf-inspired gear and essentials at shop.surfsociete.com.

Send me a Message! Be sure to leave your contact info.

Support the show

Confessions of a Surf Lady, women's surfing podcast, is supported by The Surf Société, our unique digital women's surfing platform where we come together to Learn More. Surf Better. Live Happy. Learn more at Surfsociete.com

65. Why Surfing More Isn’t Enough: The Real Key to Progression04 Mar 202500:24:44

Have you ever thought, I should be better by now? You’ve been surfing for a while, putting in the time, watching YouTube tutorials, even getting in the water more—but something’s just not clicking. You feel stuck, and no matter how much effort you put in, you’re not progressing the way you want.

I know that frustration because I’ve been there too. Surfing is unlike any other sport—you don’t get endless reps, the conditions are always changing, and without the right feedback, you might just be reinforcing bad habits. I spent years feeling like I had plateaued, wondering why I wasn’t improving, until I figured out what actually works.

In this episode of Confessions of a Surf Lady: The First Women’s Surfing Podcast™, we talk about why progression in surfing is so difficult, the common mistakes that keep surfers stuck, and what actually makes a difference. Plus, I’ll share how The Surf Société was born out of my own frustration—because I needed a place where I could get real feedback, guidance, and a community to help me progress. If you’re tired of feeling stuck, this episode is for you.

Main Themes

  • Why Surfing Progression is So Damn Hard
    “Surfing isn’t like skating or snowboarding. You don’t get unlimited reps. Every session is different, and you can’t just practice the same maneuver 50 times in a row.” – Laura Day
  • Why YouTube & Instagram Advice Might Be Making It Worse
    “I’d get so hyped watching a tutorial—then I’d go out, and my wave looked nothing like the perfect, empty lineup in the video.” – Laura Day
  • The Myth That Surfing More = Getting Better
    “If you’re just reinforcing the same bad habits, more water time isn’t going to magically fix them.” – Laura Day
  • The Reality of In-Person Coaching (And Why It’s Not Always the Answer)
    “I paid $250 for a coaching session, and the conditions were terrible. I left realizing I didn’t even know what I needed to work on.” – Laura Day

Resources

  • Join The Surf Société – Get structured learning, expert guidance, and a women’s surf community designed to help you improve. Try it free for a week! Join Here.
  • Follow Me on Instagram – Say hi and join the conversation at @confessionsofasurflady.

How to Support the Podcast

  1. Leave a Review – Help more women surfers find Confessions of a Surf Lady by rating us on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.
  2. Share with a Friend – If this episode resonated with you, send it to a surf sister who might need it.
  3. Join The Surf Société – Get expert guidance, live workshops, and a supportive community to take your surfing to the next level.
  4. Support Our Sponsors – Thoughtfully chosen brands that support women’s surfing help keep this podcast going.
  5. Shop Surf Société – Grab surf-inspired gear and essentials at shop.surfsociete.com.

Send me a Message! Be sure to leave your contact info.

Support the show

Confessions of a Surf Lady, women's surfing podcast, is supported by The Surf Société, our unique digital women's surfing platform where we come together to Learn More. Surf Better. Live Happy. Learn more at Surfsociete.com

64. From Australia to Portugal: Surfing, Freelancing & Moving Abroad25 Feb 202500:36:47

What if your work schedule fit around surfing? Even better—what if every surf session made you better at your job? When Lachlan Campbell left Australia and landed in Europe, he didn’t just want a job—he wanted a life that revolved around the swell.

With no formal education, training, or set plan, Lachlan jumped into freelancing and figured it out as he went. Now, as The Surfing Copywriter, he helps surf brands tell their stories in a way that feels real, relatable, and deeply connected to the culture. But for Lachlan, it’s more than just marketing—it’s personal. His inspiration comes from everyday moments, lineup conversations, and even unexpected places like history books, always tying it back to the world of surfing.

In this episode of Confessions of a Surf Lady: The First Women’s Surfing Podcast™, we talk about what it takes to design a surf-first lifestyle, the risks and rewards of freelancing, and how surf culture shifts when you move across continents. From growing up on Australia’s wave-rich coastline to navigating the lineups of Portugal, Lachlan’s story proves that if you’re willing to take the leap, you can build a life around what you love, too.

Main Themes:

Freelancing & Surfing: The Perfect Match

  • “As a surfer, being a freelancer, I think that lifestyle is just so compatible.” – Lachlan Campbell

Turning Everyday Surf Sessions into Work Inspiration

  • “I pull ideas from everywhere—the lineup, a great wave, even history books—and tie them back to surfing.” – Lachlan Campbell​

Building a Career Without a Safety Net

  • “I had no formal training, no plan—just the decision to go all in and figure it out.” – Lachlan Campbell​

Moving Abroad & Surfing in a Different Culture

  • “You’ll never meet a more stoked group of surfers than late-in-life European surfers.” – Lachlan Campbell​

Resources:

How to Support the Podcast

  1. Leave a Review – Help more women surfers find Confessions of a Surf Lady by rating us on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.
  2. Share with a Friend – If this episode resonated with you, send it to a surf sister who might love it.
  3. Join The Surf Société – Learn more, surf better, and live happy with a community of like-minded women surfers.
  4. Support Our Sponsors – The brands we partner with are thoughtfully chosen to support women’s surfing—when you support them, you support us!
  5. Shop Surf Société – Grab surf-inspired gear and essentials at shop.surfsociete.com. Every purchase helps keep this podcast going!

Final Thoughts

If you’ve ever dreamed of designing a life around surfing, Lachlan’s story is proof that it’s possible. Whether you want to freelance, move abroad, or simply create more

Send me a Message! Be sure to leave your contact info.

Support the show

Confessions of a Surf Lady, women's surfing podcast, is supported by The Surf Société, our unique digital women's surfing platform where we come together to Learn More. Surf Better. Live Happy. Learn more at Surfsociete.com

63. Overcoming Mental Blocks in Surfing: Fear, Confidence & Progression18 Feb 202500:19:46

Have you ever felt stuck in your surfing—not because of your ability, but because of something in your head? Maybe it’s fear, uncertainty in the lineup, or frustration from not progressing the way you want.

In this episode of Confessions of a Surf Lady: The First Women’s Surfing Podcast™, I break down three key mental blocks that could be holding you back from becoming a better surfer—and what you can do about them. We’re talking about fear of bigger waves, confidence in the lineup, and those frustrating moments when you feel stuck without knowing why. Plus, I’ll share a powerful visualization trick that helped me shift my mindset in challenging conditions.

This month inside The Surf Société, we’re focusing on mental strategies to help you move past fear and level up your surfing. If you’ve been struggling with confidence or feeling like you’re hitting a plateau, this episode is for you.

Main Themes

  • Confidence in the Lineup
    “If you don’t know how to read the break or where to sit, it’s easy to feel intimidated. The good news? Knowledge builds confidence.” – Laura Day
    Learn how understanding lineup dynamics can help you feel more at ease in crowded breaks.
  • Fear of Bigger Waves
    “Your brain sees big waves as danger—but shifting your perspective can change how you react.” – Laura Day
    Discover a simple visualization technique that can help you stay calm and commit in heavier conditions.
  • Feeling Stuck Without Knowing Why
    “You don’t know what you don’t know. Sometimes, the smallest piece of missing information is all that’s standing between you and progress.” – Laura Day
    Why having the right guidance can make all the difference in breaking through plateaus.

Resources

  • Join The Surf Société: Our March program is all about mental strategies for overcoming fear and boosting confidence in the lineup. Try it free for a week! Join Here.
  • Follow Me on Instagram: Say hi and share your experiences at @confessionsofasurflady.

How to Support the Podcast

  1. Leave a Review – Help more women surfers find this podcast by rating us on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.
  2. Share with a Friend – If this episode resonated with you, send it to a surf sister who might need it.
  3. Join The Surf Société – Get expert guidance, live workshops, and a supportive community to take your surfing to the next level.

Final Thoughts
Fear and mental blocks don’t have to define your surfing. With the right mindset shifts and the right support, you can push past these obstacles and start having more fun in the water. Hit play and let’s get into it!

Send me a Message! Be sure to leave your contact info.

Support the show

Confessions of a Surf Lady, women's surfing podcast, is supported by The Surf Société, our unique digital women's surfing platform where we come together to Learn More. Surf Better. Live Happy. Learn more at Surfsociete.com

62. Reconnecting to Yourself: Surfing, Aging, and Feminine Intuition28 Jan 202500:58:42

What if reconnecting with your feminine intuition could change the way you surf—and the way you live? What if aging, something that is so often feared, was seen as an opportunity to gather wisdom, redefine beauty, and deepen your connection to yourself and the ocean?

This week, I’m stoked to welcome back Leah Donatiello—empowerment mentor, Surf Société Surf Guide, and founder of Reconnect Retreats. You might remember Leah from her episode, Debunking Diet Culture, or as a Nutrition Surf Guide in The Surf Société, where she taught us how to fuel our sessions and stay energized in the lineup. Now, through her Reconnect program, Leah’s helping women tap into their intuition, embrace change, and live more aligned, fulfilling lives.

In this episode of Confessions of a Surf Lady: The First Women’s Surfing Podcast™, Leah and I dissect the power of reconnecting—to yourself, to surfing, and to the unique beauty of aging. We explore how surfing mirrors self-discovery, why redefining beauty is so important, and how to find joy in your evolution as a woman.

If you’ve ever felt unsettled in life, stuck in your surf progress, or resistant to enjoying the process of aging, this conversation will remind you why every stage of life as a woman is worth celebrating.

Main Themes:
Surfing as a Teacher:
“The ocean is a mirror—everything you feel, fear, or strive for will show up in the lineup.” – Leah Donatiello

Intuition and Self-Discovery:
“Your intuition isn’t here to make you comfortable; it’s here to tell you the truth.” – Leah Donatiello

Community and Growth:
"It’s been really amazing to marry my love for surfing with helping women find themselves again. It feels like such a privilege to create spaces where women can feel supported, not just in their surfing but in their personal growth." – Leah Donatiello

Resources:
Reconnect Retreats: Join Leah’s transformative surf and yoga retreats for women ready to reconnect to themselves and the ocean. Learn More Here.

Connect with Leah: Follow Leah on Instagram at @leah.donatiello for updates on her retreats and empowerment mentorship.

The Surf Société: Be part of our global community of surf sisters, offering workshops, mentorship, and stoke! Follow @surfsociete.

Send me a Message! Be sure to leave your contact info.

Support the show

Confessions of a Surf Lady, women's surfing podcast, is supported by The Surf Société, our unique digital women's surfing platform where we come together to Learn More. Surf Better. Live Happy. Learn more at Surfsociete.com

61. Want More Waves? The Mindset Shift That Changed Everything28 Jan 202500:17:31

Do you ever tell yourself, “I’m just grateful to be out here,” when deep down, you’re frustrated by how your sessions are going? That was me—not catching as many waves as I wanted, quietly comparing myself to others in the lineup, and telling myself it was okay to just enjoy the sunshine. But the truth was, I wanted more.

In this episode, I’m sharing the moment I realized my “grateful” mindset was actually holding me back, the advice from Surf Société mentor Paul Spooner that completely changed my paddling technique, and how I started doubling my wave count in just one session. If you’ve been stuck in a cycle of shielding yourself from frustration instead of reaching for more, this is your reminder that it’s okay to want more out of your surfing—and your sessions.

Main Themes:

Recognizing Limiting Mindsets:
“I realized I was using gratitude to shield myself from disappointment, but deep down, I wanted more.” – Laura Day
The Power of Technique Over Fitness:
“Don’t ever let fitness be the reason you’re not catching waves—it’s all about technique.” – Paul Spooner
Balancing Gratitude with Ambition:
“You can be grateful for your surf sessions and still want more.” – Laura Day

Resources:

  • ✨ Join Surf Société (7-Day Free Trial)
    Explore our members-only community for women surfers — with workshops, mentorship, and cultural surf support. 👉 Join Here
  • 📸 Follow Laura on Instagram
    Behind-the-scenes surf reflections, podcast updates, and community connection. 👉 @confessionsofasurflady
  • 🌊 Surf Société on Instagram
    Our official community account — surf tips, expert events, and empowering women’s surf content. 👉 @surfsociete
  • 🛍 Support the Podcast by Shopping Surf Société
    Shop surfwear and gear that supports the mission. 👉 shop.surfsociete.com
  • 🫶 Support Our Sponsors
    We carefully choose sponsors that align with our mission. Supporting them supports us — and you.

Send me a Message! Be sure to leave your contact info.

Support the show

Confessions of a Surf Lady, women's surfing podcast, is supported by The Surf Société, our unique digital women's surfing platform where we come together to Learn More. Surf Better. Live Happy. Learn more at Surfsociete.com

60. Breaking Barriers: Surfing, Gear, and Body Neutrality with Move Fat Girl28 Jan 202500:51:18

"What would 10-year-old me do?” That exact question led Kim Merrikin, founder of @movefatgirl, to reconnect with the hobbies she’d tucked away as a young girl. After feeling fat-shamed out of sports, Kim ignored her interest in physical activities for decades, believing there wasn’t a place for her in these spaces. But today, she's rewriting that story—pursuing surfing, hockey, and advocating for inclusivity in sports despite the severe lack of size diversity in available gear. Her journey is proof that sports and outdoor spaces are for everyone, no matter their body size.

Kim’s honesty and determination highlight both the barriers and beauty of getting back into sports, especially for women looking to surf and thrive in a world that often feels body-exclusive. If you’ve ever questioned where you fit in, her story will speak to you.

In this episode of Confessions of a Surf Lady, the first women’s surfing podcast, we chat with Kim about what it took to reclaim her athletic identity, the body stigma she’s faced, and the frustration of finding gear that actually fits. Kim’s candor is a breath of fresh air—she’ll have you thinking twice about what “inclusivity” really means, and she encourages all of us to see the ocean (and any sport we love) as a place that’s ours to enjoy no matter what size or shape you come in.

Main Themes:

Reclaiming Joy in Sports Despite Societal Barriers
"What would 10-year-old me do?" became Kim’s guiding question to reconnect with the sports and hobbies she loved but set aside. Her journey reveals the deep joy and confidence that come from reclaiming sports spaces as a plus-size woman and challenges the idea that only certain body types "belong" in these spaces.

The Challenge of Gear Accessibility in Sports
Kim opens up about the lack of size-inclusive gear in the surfing and sports industries, sharing her frustrations in finding essential equipment, like wetsuits and hockey pads, in plus sizes. This conversation highlights the need for size diversity in gear to make sports more accessible for everyone.

Body Neutrality and Creating an Inclusive Ocean Space
Moving beyond body positivity, Kim talks about embracing body neutrality—focusing on what the body can do rather than how it looks. She encourages a view of the ocean and sports spaces as accessible to all, fostering a welcoming, inclusive environment for women of every shape and size.

Resources

Send me a Message! Be sure to leave your contact info.

Support the show

Confessions of a Surf Lady, women's surfing podcast, is supported by The Surf Société, our unique digital women's surfing platform where we come together to Learn More. Surf Better. Live Happy. Learn more at Surfsociete.com

59. From Blanket Forts to a Global Surf Community: 5 Years of COASL28 Jan 202500:09:55

What started as a mic under a blanket and a dream to tell authentic women’s surfing stories has grown into a thriving podcast and global community. This week, we’re celebrating 5 incredible years of Confessions of a Surf Lady: The First Women’s Surfing Podcast™.

In this special episode, I’m reflecting on how far we’ve come—from launching in 2020 to more than 60 episodes, 50,000 downloads, and the creation of The Surf Société, a space inspired by you, our amazing listeners. I’ll share the story behind the podcast, the challenges and joys of building this community, and what’s next as we embark on season six.

Join me for a heartfelt celebration of the power of women’s surf culture and the incredible connections we’ve made along the way.

Main Themes:

The Origin Story: “I started with zero podcasting experience, just a cheap mic under a blanket, but I had a passion for telling women’s surf stories.” – Laura Day

From Podcast to Community:“This podcast inspired The Surf Société, a place where women can connect, learn, and grow together.” – Laura Day

The Importance of Representation:“Your stories, your stoke, and your presence in the lineup make surfing better for everyone.” – Laura Day

Resources

Thank You for Being Part of This Journey

Every download, message, and connection you’ve made through this podcast has helped us grow into what we are today. Thank you for being part of this blossoming women’s surf culture. Here’s to celebrating 5 years and all the waves to come!

Send me a Message! Be sure to leave your contact info.

Support the show

Confessions of a Surf Lady, women's surfing podcast, is supported by The Surf Société, our unique digital women's surfing platform where we come together to Learn More. Surf Better. Live Happy. Learn more at Surfsociete.com

58. 30+ Years of Surf, Photography, and Finding Gratitude: Mattson Culbert on Facing Cancer and Life’s Challenges17 Dec 202400:47:02

After spending over 30 years chasing waves and documenting epic California swells, Mattson Culbert—a surfer, photographer, and filmmaker—faced one of the biggest challenges of his life: a thyroid cancer diagnosis. 🌊 But instead of letting it hold him back, Mattson embraced vulnerability, rediscovered gratitude, and deepened his connection to the ocean.

To me, though, he’s more than just a talented photographer and lifelong surfer—he’s like a big brother, a kuya, the surf uncle we all wish we had, full of wisdom, humor, and the kind of perspective only decades in the water can bring.

In this episode of Confessions of a Surf Lady: The First Women’s Surfing Podcast™, Mattson and I talk about the evolution of surf culture, the resilience we learn from the ocean, and how his cancer journey reshaped his outlook on life. This conversation goes beyond the epic swell—it’s about family, gratitude, and the lessons we take with us both in and out of the water.

Resilience Through Challenges: How Mattson’s journey with thyroid cancer reshaped his perspective on surfing, life, and legacy.

Cultural Shifts in Surfing: A deep dive into surf culture in the ‘90s and how it compares to today’s more inclusive scene.

Respecting the Ocean: The importance of knowledge, humility, and community in and out of the lineup.

Resources:

Confessions of a Surf Lady, is a women's surfing podcast that is supported by our amazing partners and listeners like you. This means we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you when you make a purchase through the links provided. Thank you for being a part of our community and supporting the podcast.


Send me a Message! Be sure to leave your contact info.

Support the show

Confessions of a Surf Lady, women's surfing podcast, is supported by The Surf Société, our unique digital women's surfing platform where we come together to Learn More. Surf Better. Live Happy. Learn more at Surfsociete.com

74. Dreaming of Noseriding? Here’s How We’ll Get There Together23 Sep 202500:13:29

👉 Get The FREE guide & Join Noseride Collective Waitlist

This summer inside Surf Société, we wrapped up something truly special: our six-week Nose Ride Blueprint challenge. What started as an idea we’d been carrying for nearly two years turned into a program that brought women together, inspired breakthroughs, and created real progress toward nose riding goals.

In this episode of Confessions of a Surf Lady, The First Women’s Surfing Podcast™, I share how The Noseride Blueprint unfolded, the surprising ways our community showed up for each other, and why it was too good to stop there. From first-time cross-steps to vision boards filled with inspiration, the energy was undeniable—and it’s what inspired me to create the next step: The Noseride Collective.

If you’ve ever dreamed of gliding to the nose of your board—or you’re just curious what it really takes—this episode is your invitation. I’ll walk you through how the Collective will work, what you can expect, and how to grab your free Surf Lady’s Guide to Noseriding to start your journey.

Main Themes

  • What Made the Nose Ride Blueprint Special
    How mentorship, assignments, and shared wins helped women make real progress toward nose riding.
  • Community Energy and Shared Wins
    From first cross-steps to inspirational vision boards, the group lifted each other up in powerful ways.
  • The Nose Ride Collective
    Why we’re continuing the journey with a six-month program designed for support, mentorship, and steady progress.
  • How to Get Started
    Download your free Surf Lady’s Guide to Nose Riding and join the list to be the first to know when the Collective opens.

Resources

How to Support the Podcast

  1. 💙 Support our sponsors – They help keep this show going.
  2. 🛍 Shop Surf Société – Support women-centered surfwear and community.
  3. ⭐ Leave a Review – Help more women find us on Apple Podcasts & Spotify.
  4. 📲 Share this episode – Send it to a surf sister who needs to hear it.

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Support the show

Confessions of a Surf Lady, women's surfing podcast, is supported by The Surf Société, our unique digital women's surfing platform where we come together to Learn More. Surf Better. Live Happy. Learn more at Surfsociete.com

57. Creating Confidence in Every Wave: The Story Behind Peach Surf Hats10 Dec 202400:18:39

After struggling to find a surf hat that checked all the boxes—functional, stylish, and secure—Emily Li, a surfer and entrepreneur, decided to create her own. The result? Peach Surf Hats, a brand that encourages surfers to protect their skin and look good good while doing it.

In this episode of Confessions of a Surf Lady: The First Women's Surfing Podcast™, Emily shares her story of stepping away from the tech world to start a surf-focused business, the challenges of building a product that truly serves women surfers, and why she believes in the power of women lifting each other up.

Spoiler: This episode is about more than just the hat—it’s about creativity, community, and taking risks to create something meaningful. It’s about showing up for yourself and making space for others to do the same.

In this episode, we discuss:

  • Taking the Leap: How Emily transitioned from tech to starting a surf-inspired business.
  • Confidence Through Consistency: What surfing and entrepreneurship taught her about showing up for yourself.
  • Supporting Women: Why cheering each other on in the lineup and in life makes all the difference.

Resources:

Send me a Message! Be sure to leave your contact info.

Support the show

Confessions of a Surf Lady, women's surfing podcast, is supported by The Surf Société, our unique digital women's surfing platform where we come together to Learn More. Surf Better. Live Happy. Learn more at Surfsociete.com

56. Surf, Protect, Repeat: Creating a Cleaner Ocean with Every Product Choice16 Nov 202400:51:12

Ever thought about what’s in your hair care and how it impacts the ocean you surf in? This episode with Kate Assaraf, founder of Dipalready.com, is a must-listen for anyone who loves beauty products and cares about the ocean and sustainability. Kate shares the story behind Dip’s eco-friendly body and hair oil—a “perfume with benefits” that’s as good for your skin as it is for the planet. Get ready to rethink the products you use daily and what they mean for the oceans we call home.

In this episode of the Confessions of a Surf Lady podcast, the first women's surfing podcast dedicated to building a connected, eco-conscious surf sisterhood, Laura and Kate dig into what it means to be a “protector” of our natural playground rather than just a “consumer.” They discuss Dip’s innovative approach to sustainable beauty, how small eco-conscious changes can make a big impact, and why surfing and sustainability go hand-in-hand.

Main Themes:

Protector or Consumer:

“When you go to the beach, are you someone who just brings all the plastic junk, or are you leaving no trace? It’s about shifting from consuming the ocean to protecting it.” — Kate Assaraf

Perfume with Benefits:

“I wanted to create a product that stops people from having to buy four different things—a lotion, body oil, perfume, and hair serum. It’s about one beautiful product that can do it all.” — Kate Assaraf

Little Actions with Big Impact:

“Try this: go to the beach, start picking up garbage, and see what happens. Small actions are contagious, and before you know it, others will join you.” — Kate Assaraf

Resources:

  • 15% Dip's sustainable body and hair oils: Visit DipAlready.com to check out the collection and find a store near you with the store locator. Use code Confesssionsofasurflady at Checkout for 15% off.
  • Follow Dip on Instagram: Connect with Kate and explore Dip’s fun, eco-conscious content at @dipalready.
  • Surf Société Membership: Join The Surf Société with 7 days free.

Follow & Connect

  • Host Laura Day: Find Laura on Instagram at @confessionsofasurflady
  • The Surf Société: Join our community of surf ladies on Instagram at @surfsociete for surf tips, stoke, and sisterhood!

Confessions of a Surf Lady, is a women's surfing podcast that is supported by our amazing partners and listeners like you. This means we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you when you make a purchase through the links provided. Thank you for being a part of our community and supporting the podcast.

Send me a Message! Be sure to leave your contact info.

Support the show

Confessions of a Surf Lady, women's surfing podcast, is supported by The Surf Société, our unique digital women's surfing platform where we come together to Learn More. Surf Better. Live Happy. Learn more at Surfsociete.com

55. From Frustration to Fun: A Flexible Approach to Difficult Surf Sessions11 Nov 202400:19:32

Surfing is hard—like, f*cking hard. It isn’t just a sport; it’s a journey of highs, lows, and everything in between. In this episode, we talk about how to cultivate a flexible mindset to keep your stoke alive—even on those tough days when nothing seems to be going right.

I share a personal story from a recent surf trip to Baja where I faced unexpected mental challenges in the water. Instead of letting frustration take over, I tapped into the power of flexibility—both in my mindset and my approach to the waves. Whether you’re struggling with a surf slump or just had one of those sessions where you feel totally off, this episode will give you actionable tips to shift your perspective and enjoy the ride.

🌊 What we’ll talk about :

  1. Expectations: How to ditch them (yes, we all need to sometimes).
  2. Mid-session Mindset Shifts: When you’re just not vibing with the ocean, what can you do to make it fun again?
  3. Documenting Progress: Why journaling even your worst sessions can be a game-changer (trust me, it’s magic).

Resources:

Send me a Message! Be sure to leave your contact info.

Support the show

Confessions of a Surf Lady, women's surfing podcast, is supported by The Surf Société, our unique digital women's surfing platform where we come together to Learn More. Surf Better. Live Happy. Learn more at Surfsociete.com

54. Surfing, Scotch, and Sisterhood: Friendship and Adventures Down Under19 Oct 202400:46:45

In 2014, I moved to Brisbane, Australia, alone. Surfing was on the agenda, but I knew nobody and nothing about the Australian lineup. One evening, I made my way to the coast to meet a group of surfers the next morning. My anxiety of being alone in a new country quickly eased as I met my first friend: Christina.

Now, ten years later, Christina and I find ourselves in San Diego, sharing a glass of scotch and reflecting on how surfing has been the thread that has bound our friendship over the years.

In this episode of Confessions of a Surf Lady, The First Women's Surfing Podcast, we explore what it truly means to cultivate courage in the lineup, how genuine friendships can propel us beyond our perceived limits, and the magic found in recounting surf adventures and mishaps over a good drink. Join us for an episode rich with laughter, camaraderie, and surfy insights.

Main Themes:

5 Seconds of Courage: "I stood up for 5 seconds. It might not sound like much, but that moment changed how I saw myself as a surfer." — Christina

Surfing Together, Growing Together: "When we surf together, I push myself more. Knowing we’ve got each other’s backs makes me feel stronger in the lineup." — Laura Day

Laughing Through the Wipeouts: "Every fall, every awkward moment just turns into another story to laugh about over a good Scotch. That’s what makes this journey so special." — Laura Day

Resources:

Confessions of a Surf Lady, is a women's surfing podcast that is supported by our amazing partners and listeners like you. This means we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you when you make a purchase through the links provided. Thank you for being a part of our community and supporting the podcast.

Send me a Message! Be sure to leave your contact info.

Support the show

Confessions of a Surf Lady, women's surfing podcast, is supported by The Surf Société, our unique digital women's surfing platform where we come together to Learn More. Surf Better. Live Happy. Learn more at Surfsociete.com

53. Understanding Surfcraft: Elevate Your Surfing and Connect with Surf Culture12 Oct 202400:18:18

For a long time, I surfed without fully understanding the impact of my board’s design. I knew I needed a longboard to cross-step and nose ride, but the world of surfcraft always seemed distant, almost secretive.

Once I started to dig in and learn about surfboard design, everything changed. It didn’t just improve my surfing—it opened up a whole new way of experiencing the sport.

In this episode of Confessions of a Surf Lady, The First Women's Surfing Podcast, I’m talking about why understanding your board’s design is a crucial part of becoming a better surfer. From catching more waves to having confidence in your choices, surfboard knowledge gives you a deeper connection to the sport and more control over your progress.

If you’ve ever felt unsure about walking into a surf shop or curious why some surfers catch every wave, this episode is for you. It’s about gaining knowledge and taking ownership of your progress.

Key Takeaways:

  • How surfboard design directly impacts your performance and your confidence in the lineup.
  • Why knowing more about your board earns you respect and connects you with other surfers.
  • My journey changing up my surfboard — and the shifts it made in my approach to surfing.

Mentioned in the Episode:

  • The Surf Société's 3-part Surfcraft Workshop Series:
    • Shop & Shaper Conversations: How to confidently ask the right questions in a surf shop.
    • Surfboard Shapes & Styles: A guide to the most common shapes and what they’re best for.
    • Nuances of Surfboard Construction: Demystifying fins, concaves, and everything in between.

Resources

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Support the show

Confessions of a Surf Lady, women's surfing podcast, is supported by The Surf Société, our unique digital women's surfing platform where we come together to Learn More. Surf Better. Live Happy. Learn more at Surfsociete.com

52. Becoming My True Self: A Womxn's Journey Towards Authenticity and Inclusion05 Oct 202400:41:42

With a single call to "the big dogs," Sasha Jane Lowerson set in motion a revolution for equality in competitive surfing. Despite her success in numerous competitions under her former identity of Ryan Egan, Sasha feared competing as a transgender surfer. Instead of letting fear take over, she embraced her true self and championed groundbreaking inclusion policies for surfers of diverse genders.

Join us for this episode as we peel back the layers of "bullshit" and explore what it means to live authentically. Sasha and I discuss the challenges within a predominantly cisgender, white, male-dominated surf industry and the cultural differences between the Australian and Californian surf scenes. We’ll also delve into Sasha’s evolution as a surfboard designer and shaper, as well as her future plans for advocacy and continued work on diversity and inclusion in the surfing community and so much more!

Main Themes:

  • Advocating for Inclusion in Surfing: "I think I just want to let you know I'm here and I'm me and I'm scared to surf, but if I can say something and do you think we can put something in place to, like, make it safe for, like, 3% of the population? There's going to be more than me. I had looked up soccer Australia and I'd seen that they'd had a policy, I'd looked up a whole bunch of other sporting organizations that had gender identity inclusion and surfing just hadn't done it. And it was I started to believe that, like, I was like, Well, are we ran by the old dinosaurs still, or are we going to move forward?"

    Navigating Competitive Events: "You got to really choose your events. Some girls who are like, some of the best loggers in the world are like, "Yeah, we just don't go to that event because such and such, They go to that one and we go to this one"

    Breaking Barriers in the Surfing Industry: " I think that old saying, time heals all wounds. And I think that's, I'd love to be able to wave a wand and, and say 50% of the industry around all now we've got half the jobs in the industry are for all us girls, too."

Resources:

Confessions of a Surf Lady is supported by our amazing partners and listeners like you. This means we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you when you make a purchase through the links provided. Thank you for being a part of our community and supporting the podcast.

Send me a Message! Be sure to leave your contact info.

Support the show

Confessions of a Surf Lady, women's surfing podcast, is supported by The Surf Société, our unique digital women's surfing platform where we come together to Learn More. Surf Better. Live Happy. Learn more at Surfsociete.com

51. Beat Surf Slumps and Boost Progress with Your Surf Journal28 Sep 202400:17:22

Want to stay out of a surf slump, keep the stoke high, and make progress in your surfing? Start a surf journal! In this episode, I, your host Laura Day, share how keeping a surf journal has been a game-changer for me. I’ll explain how I document my sessions, reflections, and surf goals in a cute, bright colored, A4 notebook, decorated with stickers, stamps, and photos. This ritual not only helps me track my progress and overcome mental blocks but also captures my favorite memories in each session.

We’ll discuss the importance of enjoying the process of surfing, connecting with nature, and cherishing every experience in the water—plus, why documenting it all matters. I’ll provide practical tips for starting and maintaining a surf journal, ensuring it becomes a meaningful part of your surf journey.

Tune in to discover how to avoid surf slumps, treasure your surfing memories, and foster continuous growth in the water. And if you keep a surf journal, snap a photo and tag me on Instagram (@confessionsofasurflady)—I’d love to see it!

Main Themes:

  • The Power of Keeping a Surf Journal: "The game changer for me has been keeping a surf journal. Before I created The Surf Société, I didn’t keep a surf journal. However, some of the ladies in The Surf Société do, and they do such a beautiful job of it. Seeing their progress and knowing that they keep journals, motivated me to start keeping one myself." — Laura Day

  • The Challenges of Surfing Progression: "Surfing is a challenging sport to progress in due to constantly changing conditions and numerous variables, both external and internal. With such fleeting moments in your surfing journey, it’s easy to feel discouraged if you don’t see immediate progress." — Laura Day

  • The Benefits of Reflective Writing: "What's really cool about writing it down in a notebook is that even if you don’t have the answer right away, putting it on paper helps solidify it in your mind. It gives you something to revisit and ponder later. This process allows you to track your thoughts and progress over time, providing a chance for deeper reflection on your experiences." — Laura Day

Resources: 

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Support the show

Confessions of a Surf Lady, women's surfing podcast, is supported by The Surf Société, our unique digital women's surfing platform where we come together to Learn More. Surf Better. Live Happy. Learn more at Surfsociete.com

49. Thank You for 50 episodes & 50K Downlaods!21 Sep 202400:13:53

After 4.5 years of running this podcast we've reached 50 Episodes and surpassed 50k Downloads! Thank you to our listeners, guests, friends and family for listening and supporting our show. I couldn't be more grateful.

xo, Laura Day

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Support the show

Confessions of a Surf Lady, women's surfing podcast, is supported by The Surf Société, our unique digital women's surfing platform where we come together to Learn More. Surf Better. Live Happy. Learn more at Surfsociete.com

50. Celebrating 50 Episodes of Knowledge, Culture, and Sisterhood21 Sep 202400:50:28

Try a membership at The Surf Société with 7 days free.

Join us as we celebrate the 50th episode of Confession of a Surf Lady Podcast, and nearly 50k downloads! Tune in to hang out with me, Host Laura Day, and longtime listener, Surf Société Member, and surfy friend Diana Zalucky. Together, we reflect on the podcast's journey and our mission to empower women in the lineup through the pillars of knowledge, culture, and sisterhood. I, Laura, share my experiences building the podcast while Diana shares highlights of building confidence through her surfing journey.

We also explore the challenges of social media, body inclusivity, and representation in the surfing world and emphasize the significance of curating your social media feed to foster personal growth in and out of the lineup.

Grab your favorite post-surf snack and tune in to this heartfelt episode filled with insights, laughter, and reflections on the journey so far!

Highlights:

  • Embracing the Unpredictable Nature of Surfing: "I am not in control of anything. The ocean is not linear at all. So why the hell do I think that I can be in charge of this one sport in the world where you're moving and your playing field is moving, and it's never the same ever again." — Diana Zalucky
  • Confidence in Surfing and Life: "At the core of it, having confidence in surfing, in life, that confidence is built when you show up for something that is hard, when you show up for something that you don't know how to do, when you show up for something that you're unsure about. You show up for it, you do it, and confidence the byproduct of you showing up for yourself because you took the leap on yourself. You took a gamble on yourself. So to me, confidence for surfing is that moment when I'm having butterflies in my stomach and I show up and it doesn't matter what happens in the water. But I kept that promise to myself." — Diana Zalucky
  • The Power of Community in Surfing: "It's sharing with others and getting that stoke back from them and that encouragement, the surf society and the women in it are the people that I want to hang out with. — Laura Day

Resources:

Confessions of a Surf Lady is supported by our amazing partners and listeners like you. This means we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you when you make a purchase through the links provided. Thank you for being a part of our community and supporting the podcast.

Send me a Message! Be sure to leave your contact info.

Support the show

Confessions of a Surf Lady, women's surfing podcast, is supported by The Surf Société, our unique digital women's surfing platform where we come together to Learn More. Surf Better. Live Happy. Learn more at Surfsociete.com

48. Navigating Surf Relationships: Moving On from Toxic Groups and Negative Friends31 Aug 202400:15:49

The connection you have with your surf community directly shapes your surf experience. While being part of a surf group is important, it's even more crucial that the community aligns with your personal goals, motivations, and personality.

In this episode, I, your host Laura Day, share my personal journey in finding the right surf family. I discuss my experiences with toxic surf clubs and unhelpful friendships, and how I ultimately discovered a positive and supportive community in The Surf Société. These stories underscore my core message: it’s perfectly okay to move on from groups and friendships that don’t enhance your surf experience. It’s healthy to seek out communities and friendships that support and inspire you.

Whether you're struggling to find the right surf group or searching for a supportive community, this episode offers encouragement to make your surf journey as enriching and joyful as possible. Tune in to learn why finding and nurturing the right surf community is essential for you.

Main Themes:

  • The Heart of Surfing: Community and Connection: "The number one component that makes surfing really special is the community, the people that you get to surround yourself with. Whether they're friends or part of a club, finding a group of women that you can surf with and go out to brunches or dinners with after sunset is part of what makes a surf journey so soul-filling." — Laura Day
  • Toxic Surf Club Impacting Mental Health: "It started to feel, frankly, really toxic and not fun. There were a few instances where I was outright bullied online and in person, and I began to really dislike surfing. I hated how it affected my mentality toward surfing. It made me feel really bad about wanting to get out in the water." — Laura Day
  • Navigating Your Surfing Journey: "It's okay to go and find a better fit for yourself. You don't have to feel guilty or ashamed. You don't have to feel like you're leaving people in the dust. It's okay to find a group that works for you and makes you feel good about your surf journey." — Laura Day

Resources:

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Support the show

Confessions of a Surf Lady, women's surfing podcast, is supported by The Surf Société, our unique digital women's surfing platform where we come together to Learn More. Surf Better. Live Happy. Learn more at Surfsociete.com

73. Navigating Surf Lineups as a Black Woman with Mimi Miller17 Jun 202501:10:30

Mimi Miller embodies the fierce joy and courageous authenticity that surfing desperately needs. In a world often dominated by slim, conventional images, Mimi is breaking stereotypes and showcasing how curvy, strong, and confident women redefine surfing.

In this episode of Confessions of a Surf Lady, The First Women’s Surfing Podcast™, Mimi shares her 11-year surfing journey—from dancing on the beach for warmups to confronting microaggressions in the lineup. Her candid conversation about cultural barriers, surf etiquette, and body positivity provides deep insights into how surfers of color can reclaim their joy and assert their place in the waves.

Through Mimi's vibrant storytelling, you'll connect with her fierce spirit and discover how empowerment, authenticity, and community solidarity can transform your surfing experience.

Main Themes:

  • Surfing with Confidence as a Curvy Woman Mimi emphasizes how representation and visibility help break barriers, empowering women of diverse body types to embrace their surfing abilities.
  • "People don't realize it takes curvy women—we're the real goats in surfing."
  • Confronting Microaggressions and Surf Etiquette Mimi discusses the frequent microaggressions faced in predominantly white surf spaces and how she strategically addresses these challenges head-on.
  • "Sometimes you have to call it out immediately to regain your space and respect."
  • Building Community & Cultural Representation in Surfing Mimi reflects on her efforts to foster community among surfers of color, highlighting the importance of feeling safe, seen, and supported in the water.

Guest Resources

  • Follow Mimi on Instagram : @shesurfmimi

Show resources

How to Support the Podcast:

  1. 💙 Support our sponsors – They help keep this show going!
  2. 🛍️ Shop at shop.surfsociete.com – Support women-centered surfwear and community.
  3. ⭐ Leave a Review – It helps more women find us on Apple Podcasts and Spotify.
  4. 📲 Share this episode – Send it to a surf sister who needs to hear this.
  5. 🌊 Join Surf Société – Come learn and surf better inside a powerful, like-minded women's community.

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Support the show

Confessions of a Surf Lady, women's surfing podcast, is supported by The Surf Société, our unique digital women's surfing platform where we come together to Learn More. Surf Better. Live Happy. Learn more at Surfsociete.com

47. Breaking Down the Barriers in Surfboard Shaping24 Aug 202400:37:03

Growing up in Orange County, Ben loved to spend time in the water. However, as he grew up transgender, the revealing nature of swimwear eventually made him uncomfortable and led him to give up his time in the ocean. It wasn’t until he moved back to Orange County from San Francisco in 2010 that he was encouraged to get back into surfing.

In San Francisco, Ben found a strong sense of acceptance within the LGBTQ+ community. The freedom to be open and authentic about his identity was transformative, and it inspired him to reconnect with surfing and begin shaping his own boards.

Ben is passionate about inclusivity and accessibility in the surf industry. By sharing his story, he inspires others to pursue their passions, regardless of perceived limitations.



Main Themes:

  • Transgender Experience in Sports: "So it's weird that it was something that I wanted to do, but being transgender, when I hit puberty, like, that wasn't cool with me. Swimming things that I loved. You wear things that are rather revealing. Wetsuits, bathing suits." - Ben Soto
  • Sacred Surfboards and Economic Disparity: "There was a reason why the Hawaiians thought, is something sacred when they made surfboards. Not just anyone could make a surfboard. You had to be a priest. And there were rituals and ceremonies, there were launching parties, and it was a special thing. And it's gone from this wholly sacred thing that we took from these people and now make millions while they live in poverty." - Ben Soto
  • Surfing and Spirituality: "When I go surfing and when I'm in the ocean, that is the closest I truly feel you can get to God's energy and the energy of the universe that flows within everything. When you catch that wave, that sensation, that feeling, there ions flying and atoms swirling around you in this energy that is coming from thousands and thousands of miles and the energy is what you're riding. This thing that's created and it comes all this way and at the very last moment of its energy, you get to play with it." - Ben Soto


Resources:

Confessions of a Surf Lady is supported by our amazing partners and listeners like you. This means we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you when you make a purchase through the links provided. Thank you for being a part of our community and supporting the podcast.

Send me a Message! Be sure to leave your contact info.

Support the show

Confessions of a Surf Lady, women's surfing podcast, is supported by The Surf Société, our unique digital women's surfing platform where we come together to Learn More. Surf Better. Live Happy. Learn more at Surfsociete.com

46. Overcoming Ocean Trauma + Fear in the Lineup through Surf Mental Training10 Aug 202400:37:45

Whether it's navigating a competitive lineup or dropping into steeper waves, every surfer is bound to face fear in the lineup.

But what happens when that fear becomes so debilitating that you can no longer enjoy your sessions?

Meet Kim Chareonbood. Hypnotherapist, sports mental trainer, and Surf Guide at The Surf Société Community. Kim specializes in helping surfers overcome fear and trauma holding them back in the water, and in life.

In this episode you'll hear about Kim's personal journey of managing fear and self-doubt to push herself to surf bigger waves, we'll share relatable stories of feeling intimidated in the surf but build confidence anyway, and you'll learn the brain science behind fear, as well as, how to utilize fear to your advantage in the lineup.

If you've ever struggled with anxiety about bigger waves or crowded lineups, this episode is a must listen.

Main Themes:

The Impact of Traumatic Experiences: "When you have a traumatic experience, it's in our body, in our system, in our mind, and it kind of has its own life. The information of the experience is so overwhelming it can't be processed by your brain in the normal way, and it leaves kind of an imprint of an unfinished story.'" - Kim Chareonbood

Embracing Incremental Progress: "You can really do mini-step by mini-step. People usually say, 'Now I have to go there and I have to take this wave.' No, the first step is to go closer and then go a little closer. Then maybe the next day you try to take the wave and you pull back, it's fine. It's like the next step, right? So that is one thing you can do. Go really mini-step by mini-step and be fine with it." - Kim Chareonbood

Risks in Surfing: "If you're not willing to take risks, you can't go surfing. There's just no point in you going surfing, even not small waves, because in the small waves there's more incidents, I would say, than in the bigger ones." - Kim Chareonbood

Resources:

Confessions of a Surf Lady is supported by our amazing partners and listeners like you. This means we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you when you make a purchase through the links provided. Thank you for being a part of our community and supporting the podcast.

Send me a Message! Be sure to leave your contact info.

Support the show

Confessions of a Surf Lady, women's surfing podcast, is supported by The Surf Société, our unique digital women's surfing platform where we come together to Learn More. Surf Better. Live Happy. Learn more at Surfsociete.com

45. Saltwater in the Blood: Easkey Britton visits The Surf Société20 Jul 202400:47:06

Have you ever experienced the poetry of surfing? The saltwater molecules enveloping your body as they break your fall from a wipeout, the energy of a wave curling up to greet you, propelling you down the line for a mere 10-15 seconds. The natural components of your local break that set the stage for play and connection with your best friends.

In this episode you'll take a sneak peak into an exclusive Surf Société event. Follow along as our members meet Easkey Britton, Irish big wave surfer, marine scientist, artist, poet, and author of Saltwater in the Blood.

Together we explore the profound connection between women and the ocean. How our bond with water and the cycles of our local ecosystems is reflected within our own cycles in womanhood and life.

Easkey shares her journey from professional surfer to marine scientist, highlights the best surf spots in Ireland, share's her mindset shift from big wave surfing to motherhood and so much more.

Tune into this episode to celebrate your innate connection to the ocean and your saltwater in the blood.

Resources:

Confessions of a Surf Lady is supported by our amazing partners and listeners like you. This means we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you when you make a purchase through the links provided. Thank you for being a part of our community and supporting the podcast.

Send me a Message! Be sure to leave your contact info.

Support the show

Confessions of a Surf Lady, women's surfing podcast, is supported by The Surf Société, our unique digital women's surfing platform where we come together to Learn More. Surf Better. Live Happy. Learn more at Surfsociete.com

44. Localism & Unsolicited Surf Advice: Navigating an Evolving Surf Culture and Growing Lineup06 Jul 202401:00:15

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Improving your surf skills is no easy feat and learning from others is critical part of the process, but when does unsolicited surf advice cross the boundary from helpful to condescending? And are newer surfers listening to advice that concerns safety in the lineup? OR are they brushing off tips and claiming the advice from experienced surfers as ugly localism?

In this episode, we'll talk about the importance of communication in an evolving surf culture and growing lineup and how we can maintain and encourage community and camaraderie when crowded lineups lead to frustration. 

We'll also hear your confessions to this episode's prompt "What's the most memorable piece of unsolicited surf advice you've ever received."

Join me, Laura Day and Surf Société Member Danyelle Carpenter for a critical conversation balanced with laughter and fun surf sister stories.

Main Themes:
The Good and Ugly Sides of Localism: "I think the differences between, between that good local and that ugly local is are you focused on getting yours or are you focused on community?" — Danyelle Carpenter

Generational Knowledge and Respect: "How do we get more access to that generational knowledge? How do we give more access to that generational knowledge, especially with, like, the lineup becoming so much more crowded and it's less of a conversation of numbers of people out there, because you can't stop that. And how unfair is it for you to be like, well, I started way earlier than you, so you shouldn't be here." — Laura Day

The Responsibility of a Surf Coach: "I volunteer and I teach people, new surfers, and, when I'm pushing them in, when I'm choosing a spot for this to sit, we're picking those spots that's our responsibility. To keep them safe, to make sure that it is a fun time."— Danyelle Carpenter

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Confessions of a Surf Lady, women's surfing podcast, is supported by The Surf Société, our unique digital women's surfing platform where we come together to Learn More. Surf Better. Live Happy. Learn more at Surfsociete.com

43. Surf, Sustainability, and Stunning Post-Surf Hair: Dip's Eco-Friendly Revolution22 Jun 202400:37:30

Free Shipping: Shop Dip's after swim (and surf!) detangler bar and get FREE shipping when you use the code confessions at checkout.

Finding plastic nurdles on the remote beaches of Sri Lanka left Kate Assaraf heart broken. Having grown up in New Jersey where seamlessly going from beach to nightlife was a part of summer culture, Kate never left home without a bottle of conditioner to treat her hair after a day in the saltwater. Now a surfer and long term hair-care enthusiast, Kate hated the fact that her post-surf hair care contributed to the world's growing plastic problem. After dozens of iterations working with a chemist, Kate created an eco-friendly solution in her company called Dip! An environmental awareness company parading around as a damn good hair care company.

In this episode you'll learn all about Dip and how this badass entrepreneur combined her love for hair, sustainability, and surfing into a haircare line fit for surf ladies who love the environment (and are tired of those post-surf tangles!)

Main Themes:

Plastic Pollution & Kate's Inspiration to create Dip!
"When I was in Sri Lanka, they already had like a bit of a plastic problem. A ship had spilled plastic nurdles all over. It broke my heart. Sri Lanka is one of the most beautiful, untouched places I've ever been and nurdles just mimic food for so much wildlife there. It's heartbreaking". - Kate Assaraf

Accessible Sustainability
"Sustainability is a weird subject, right? People want to care about it. But they either don't feel included or they feel disenchanted because they don't think that they can do much about it. For me, like the little emotional thing in my day, is my hair. If I'm having a bad hair day, I'm miserable it affects my confidence. So I thought why not make something amazing that that tapped into doing something good? Something you use regularly that reminded you about reducing your plastic instead of like finger waggled you into it." - Kate Assaraf

Greenwashing & Beauty Products: Reef Safe vs. Reef Safer
"Surfers want their their heart and soul in reef safety and understandably so. And I'm also on that on that team. When you're in the cosmetics industry, and you know that this term doesn't mean anything but consumers hold so much weight with it. It's tricky. You see consumers going back and forth on brands on reef safety. The term that I've seen that is most appropriate is "reef safer". It's very easy to put reef safe on anything right now there's no one there there no police it." - Kate Assaraf

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Confessions of a Surf Lady, women's surfing podcast, is supported by The Surf Société, our unique digital women's surfing platform where we come together to Learn More. Surf Better. Live Happy. Learn more at Surfsociete.com

42. Surf Smarter: Your Guide to Reading the Break in Ten Minutes18 May 202400:21:09

Access the Read the Break Lesson  👉 HERE

Here's why experienced surfers are catching more waves than you...

While you think that crusty old guy is just taking his sweet time to sip his coffee, he's actually reading the break so he can create a game plan for his surf session.

Spending 10 reading the break before you paddle out will allow you to observe the ocean and the lineup and plan for a productive surf session... aka More Waves, More Fun!

But what do you look for in those 10?

Tune into this episode to hear about our new exclusive lesson inside The Surf Société: How to Read the Break and Your 8-Point Checklist for Having the Most Productive Surf Session.

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Confessions of a Surf Lady, women's surfing podcast, is supported by The Surf Société, our unique digital women's surfing platform where we come together to Learn More. Surf Better. Live Happy. Learn more at Surfsociete.com

41. The Women's Surfing Revolution: Meet Rising Star Reid Van Wagoner08 May 202400:23:28

At just 3 years old Reid Van Wagoner caught her first wave. She was hooked! Now 14, Reid is a surfing prodigy competing in both shortboard and longboard competitions, sometimes even in the same day! In this episode you'll meet the future of women's surfing. Reid shares her journey of growing up in a surfing family, how she balances life with being a young competitive athlete, and her excitement in being part the revolution of women's surfing.

Main Themes:

  • Mindful Surfing in Competition: "Everything happens the way it's going to happen." — Reid Van Wagoner
  • Resilience in Sports: "Just kind of push yourself and get over those obstacles and not let them get you down too much. If you let them get you down, then you're not going to be able to improve or to push past those." — Reid Van Wagoner
  • Inspirational Figures in Surfing: "I look up to basically all of them. I met most of them and they're all so sweet. I have a couple local surfers like Katie Simmers and all of them like the youngest, like surfers on tour right now. I like surf with them and I always looked up to them when I was a little girl and then now they're on like the WSL tour and I'm like, wow, like I could do that one day." — Reid Van Wagoner

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Confessions of a Surf Lady, women's surfing podcast, is supported by The Surf Société, our unique digital women's surfing platform where we come together to Learn More. Surf Better. Live Happy. Learn more at Surfsociete.com

40. Returning Wave: Surfing, Filipino Culture, and Community24 Apr 202400:51:06

Meet Lynn and Sunkat, Filipina american surfers who grew up in both the states and the islands of the Philippines. In 2008 they began to bring donated surfboards and equipment back to remote island destinations, where surfing was usually only done by foreigners passing through.

By donating recycled equipment to the local kids, and incentivizing them to pursue education, they've empowered locals to find ownership in the growing surf scene in the Philippines. Through their non-profit organization "Balik Bayod" meaning "Returning wave" they have been supporting filipinos with donated surfboards since 2008.

In this episode we'll explore the complexities and beauty of surfing in the Philippines, including the influence of foreigners and the importance of preserving local communities. As co-founders of Balik Bayod Returning Wave, Sunkat and Lynn share their stories of connecting with their Filipino heritage and empowering the local surf scene.

We'll discuss the challenges faced by the Filipino surfing community, like limited government support and the need to foster a thriving local surf economy. They underline the significance of supporting Filipino businesses globally and how doing so can reshape cultural perceptions, especially concerning the embodied experience of being dark-skinned within the outdoor community.

You're invited to join the conversation, contribute to sustainable surf practices, and even participate in equipment donations. This episode not only encapsulates the spirit of surfing but also the power of unity and cultural connections within our global community.

Main Themes: 

  • Inclusion in Surf Culture: [30:04] "I always feel like, as a Filipino American, we've been battling with inclusion in the surf community, but that's actually our home. So to be excluded from a sport that's in your home is kind of crazy, but to be someone that's going to come and bring the resources so local people can be a part of not even just the surfing and surf culture and create their own surf culture." — Laura Day
  • Supporting Filipino Surfers Globally: [37:07] "I think, like, when you meet another filipino surfer, it's always exciting. And you know that we have traveled, you know, that we have intermingled with different cultures, but there's that happy bond that happens around surfing, I think, because it's all about getting stoked when you catch a wave and basically, yeah, that feeling of being part of a community like that and for sustainability." — Lynn
  • Surfing Culture in the Philippines [46:49] : "My experience and I think Lynn's, is that the kids we surf with are like, clapping when we catch a wave. You know, I'm not a very good surfer, but I never really experienced that anywhere else. I think that's a special thing about Philippines, is kind of this sharing culture." — Sunkat

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Confessions of a Surf Lady, women's surfing podcast, is supported by The Surf Société, our unique digital women's surfing platform where we come together to Learn More. Surf Better. Live Happy. Learn more at Surfsociete.com

39. Surfboard Selection: A Surf Lady's Guide to Navigating Shop and Shaper Conversations17 Apr 202400:17:57

Participate in The Surf Craft Series at The Surf Société. Join now and get your first month free. Create an Account here.

Have you ever walked into a surf shop and felt out of place? Traditionally there has been a major barrier to entry for women in surfing. This not only shows in the lineup but trickles all the way down to our experiences in surf shops. Many women report not feeling acknowledged or taken seriously and I believe that has discouraged women from branching out and learning more about surfcraft and surf history.

In this episode we're going to talk about how learning more about surfcraft can empower and enrich your personal surf journey and how our upcoming events at The Surf Société can give you the information and support you need to feel confident walking into any surf shop or meeting with any shaper to talk about your next surfboard.

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Confessions of a Surf Lady, women's surfing podcast, is supported by The Surf Société, our unique digital women's surfing platform where we come together to Learn More. Surf Better. Live Happy. Learn more at Surfsociete.com

38. How to Cultivate Your Lineup Confidence06 Mar 202400:16:29

🌊 Host Laura Day shares insightful tips on cultivating confidence in the lineup. Learn about the pillars of mindset, knowledge, and sisterhood that can empower your surfing journey and practical tips that will leave you ready to charge in your next surf session.

Main Themes: 

  • The Importance of Mindset in Surfing: "Your headspace and your mentality going out in the lineup can define and really shape how you feel when you're out there."
  • Building Personal Confidence: "I've really realized that confidence is a constant practice. It's not just a problem that we can solve once and then walk away from and expect it to still be there. It's a constant practice."
  • Surfing Wisdom: "Knowing that you did your homework [you've learned about your local break] is going to give you confidence. It's like being in class when you've read the book. You can participate in the discussion, right?"

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Confessions of a Surf Lady, women's surfing podcast, is supported by The Surf Société, our unique digital women's surfing platform where we come together to Learn More. Surf Better. Live Happy. Learn more at Surfsociete.com

72. Surfing Siargao with Respect: Filipino Culture, Community, & the Local Lineup10 Jun 202500:50:04

What if the thing you were seeking all along was right in your own backyard?

Elaine Abonal was an exchange student in Florida when she first saw surfing—and something inside her lit up. But it wasn’t until she returned to the Philippines and realized there were waves in her own country that everything changed.

In this episode of Confessions of a Surf Lady: The First Women’s Surfing Podcast™, Elaine shares how her surf journey started by breaking cultural expectations and carving out a new path in the Philippine surf scene. As a Filipina surfer, community builder, and entrepreneur, she’s created something truly powerful: a space where people feel welcome, safe, and inspired to surf.

We talk about her experience originally being one of the few women in the water in Siargao, what it's like to build surf culture from the ground up, and why inclusion—especially in the global surf conversation—has to come from people who live and breathe the culture every day.

Main Themes:

🌍 Surfing as a Cultural Awakening

“I thought I had to go far away to learn to surf. I didn’t realize the waves were in my own country.” – Elaine Abonal

💪 Creating Safe Spaces in the Lineup

From guiding tourists to teaching locals, Elaine opens up about her mission to make surfing feel welcoming—especially for women in the Philippines.

🏄🏽 Representation in Surf Culture

Why it matters that the face of surfing includes Filipina surfers, and how surf media often misses the real stories from local communities.

🌀 Surfing as a Mirror for Growth

We explore how surfing helped Elaine confront fear, trust herself, and return to joy—even through life’s personal and professional challenges.


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  3. ⭐ Leave a Review – It helps more women find us on Apple Podcasts and Spotify.
  4. 📲 Share this episode – Send it to a surf sister who needs to hear this.
  5. 🌊 Join Surf Société – Come learn and surf better inside a powerful, like-minded women's community.

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Confessions of a Surf Lady, women's surfing podcast, is supported by The Surf Société, our unique digital women's surfing platform where we come together to Learn More. Surf Better. Live Happy. Learn more at Surfsociete.com

37. In Deep with Matt George: Challenging Misogyny through Surf Journalism29 Nov 202300:48:30

Despite facing misogyny prevalent in the surf industry, Matt George, a renowned surf journalist and Senior Contributing Editor at SURFER for over 35 years, has been an advocate for women in surfing.

In his new book, In Deep, you'll discover an anthology of Matt's most influential articles and photographs, including stories about courageous women in surfing. From a young Bethany Hamilton's shark attack as told from the perspective of the apex predator to a feature about Keala Kennelly that inadvertently outed her to her family.

However, this episode goes beyond 'In Deep,' bridging the gap between new surf media and traditional surf media. We dive into the contrast between a WOC self-published podcast like 'Confessions of a Surf Lady' and the traditional, white-male dominated world of one of the most influential surf publications of all time, SURFER Magazine.

Throughout the episode, we explore Matt's top tips for aspiring journalists and he shares his confessions on some of our most popular topics. But most importantly, Matt imparts empowering words of advice to all surf ladies on navigating a blossoming women's surf culture and industry.

This episode is packed with practical writing advice, genuine surf stories, and thought-provoking conversations that you won't want to miss.

Main Themes

  • About In-Deep: "It is a collection of stories that really reflect the zeitgeist. As the title In Deep implies, it gets very, very much behind the curtain of professional surfers, professional contests, professional people, and the great surf spots of the world." — Matt George [03:00 → 03:19]
  • Women in Surfing: "In my experience, Laura, I have found all the female surfers that I've written about are very courageous and very powerful. While all the men that I've written about, I've found them very vulnerable, almost weak compared to the women." — Matt George [08:46 → 09:03]
  • The Art of Journalism: "When I meet someone to do something as personal as a profile, as a featured article, I very much look for what they're not saying. Not exactly what they're saying, but what they're not saying."— Matt George [09:51 → 10:06]
  • Connected to the Cosmos: "As surfers, we are a very unique, fringe dwelling tribe and we are connected to something absolutely extraordinary, connected to the cosmos, different than other sports." — Matt George [11:45 → 11:57]
  • Diversity and Inclusion: "Having a conversation with you, someone that's worked intimately in a male dominated surf industry for decades, and hearing that there have been advocates for people like me. It's comforting, because for women, like me, still face misogynistic attitudes in the lineup." — Laura Day [14:44 → 15:09]

Resources

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Confessions of a Surf Lady, women's surfing podcast, is supported by The Surf Société, our unique digital women's surfing platform where we come together to Learn More. Surf Better. Live Happy. Learn more at Surfsociete.com

36. From Heartbreak to Healing: How Surfing Saved Me04 Oct 202300:46:26

How has surfing saved you? Meet Janina Casanova, a once rare-beach-goer from Southern California. From praying in Italian seaside chapels to finding solace in the waters of the Philippines, Janina embarked on a world-wide journey, in hopes of recovering from a broken marriage.

Finding herself on a remote island in her homeland, Janina reconnects with her cultural roots in the Philippines and learns how to surf. Once a girl who never went in the water, she now surfs everyday, claiming that surfing has saved her.

Tune in to hear Janina's journey from heartbreak to healing as well as your surf lady confessions to "How Has Surfing Saved You?"

Main Themes:

  • Finding Myself: "I decided to go back to the Philippines, which I had never been before since birth, and just kind of like, rediscover myself, just get back to my roots."
  • The Healing Power of Surfing: "I think that surfing was a good distraction, focal point, regenerative experience to learn and just be out in the water, and you're paddling out and what feels like you're in the middle of the ocean, far away from everything and everyone that you know, and sometimes you're alone or whatever. You ride your motorbike, and you get to the spot, you're the first one there, and you just hear the roosters crowing, and you just paddle out, and you're, like, just centered. And it just really allows you to connect with yourself and connect with nature and try to learn."
  • Midlife Surfing: "I took up surfing in my mid 30s after a divorce, and I surf almost every day, but I'm still not, like, shredding you're like, oh, I'm just a cook. I just want to have fun."
  • Surfing and Life: "Surfing changed my whole perspective on life, and it switched my priorities."
  • Filipino Culture and People: "There's something really special about the Filipino people, the Filipino culture, we're so friendly."

This podcast is supported by The Surf Société, our unique digital women's surfing platform where we come together to Learn More. Surf Better. Live Happy. Learn more at Surfsociete.com

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Confessions of a Surf Lady, women's surfing podcast, is supported by The Surf Société, our unique digital women's surfing platform where we come together to Learn More. Surf Better. Live Happy. Learn more at Surfsociete.com

35. Love and the Lineup: Would you date another surfer?17 Sep 202300:38:56

Picture this: you and your boo paddling out and catching waves into the sunset. Sounds dreamy, right?  Now picture this: your partner dropping in and turning  all your waves into a party waves.

In this episode you'll meet guest Anna, world traveler, social media manager, and surf tour operator who lives in Ecuador. Anna spent years backpacking until her money ran out then heading back to Sweden to earn just enough to hit the road again. Since her 20's, Anna has visited 55 different countries. 

Her friends and family predicted she'd find a special someone and settle somewhere in paradise however, Anna swore she would never stay for a guy...until she visited Montañita, Ecuador and met her partner while surfing in the lineup.

Join us for this episode where we'll dive into the pros and cons of dating someone who shares your passion for surfing. We'll talk about the importance of compatibility, support, & mutual respect in romance and the lineup.

And of course, you'll hear surf lady confessions from listeners just like you to the question "How do you feel about dating another surfer."

Main Themes:

  • Compatibility and respect for each other's passions are essential in any relationship, especially when dating another surfer. It is important to find someone who understands and supports your love for surfing.
  • Dating within the small surf community can have its complications, such as running into ex-partners at the same locations or events. This is a risk that comes with dating someone within a tight-knit community.
  • Some surf ladies prefer to keep surfing as their own personal activity, separate from their romantic relationships. They find solace and personal growth in riding waves on their own and prioritize their own surf experiences.
  • Finding a partner who enjoys spending time at the beach and is supportive of your surfing pursuits can be an appealing prospect. Having someone who understands the importance of prioritizing surfing can enhance your surfing experience in a relationship.

This podcast is supported by The Surf Société, our unique digital women's surfing platform where we come together to Learn More. Surf Better. Live Happy. Learn more at Surfsociete.com

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Support the show

Confessions of a Surf Lady is supported by The Surf Société, our unique digital women's surfing platform where we come together to Learn More. Surf Better. Live Happy.

Try out a membership with your first 2 weeks FREE visit Surfsociete.com/join

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Support the show

Confessions of a Surf Lady, women's surfing podcast, is supported by The Surf Société, our unique digital women's surfing platform where we come together to Learn More. Surf Better. Live Happy. Learn more at Surfsociete.com

34. Waves to Wineries: A Baja Surf Adventure to Remember30 Aug 202300:51:46

Pull up a chair and join us in Baja, Mexico as we as we celebrate sisterhood and surf adventure on Surf Société's first trip. We'll drink wine and eat charcuterie after a surf at a secret spot, all thanks to Manny, our guide at Epic Surf Tours.

Meet 4 members of The Surf Société: Farrah, Celia, Danyelle, and Jana.  Coming together IRL for the first time on this trip. We'll recount an amazing weekend of overcoming fear, challenging surf conditions, secret breaks, and eating the most amazing food south of the border.

Each surf lady brings something special to the conversation. Farrah shares why she chose this surf trip as her first, Celia shares how despite her fears she surfs anyway, Danyelle tells us why surf travel is the only travel she does, and last but not least, Jana shares how she uses a positive attitude to rapidly progress her surf skills.

This trip bridges the gap between online learning inside The Surf Société and an IRL sisterhood.

Main Themes:

  •  The Importance of Trust and Camaraderie in Group Adventures: 'I want to trust that person and know that they're being conscious about when we're going, why we're going, and who we're going with. I like that it's a small group and we're all in different experience levels. We all feel super comfortable and there's such great camaraderie on the lineup.'" - Farrah Monfort
  • The Benefits of Traveling to Surf: "Traveling to surf is the best thing. It's like this built-in security. It's made me a bolder traveler because I know that there's going to be a group that's going to take care of me because surfers take care of other surfers. I think that's the best part about it." - Danyelle Carpenter
  • Feeling Comfortable and Safe: Yeah, it was so awesome because I felt really comfortable on that wave and I actually caught some.  I'm really working to be a better surfer and I know for me to do that, it's not just going out and surfing, it's being encouraged by other people that make me feel comfortable and safe." -Ceclia McKintosh
  • The Importance of Feeling Comfortable in a Surf Trip: "I really like that it's just women on our trip. I know women that admire Laura's work from her Instagram, from her podcast. I know her principles and things that are important to her. Then I think, okay, people who are going to go on this trip are going to align with that too, and I will feel comfortable in that environment." Jana Fogaça

This podcast is supported by The Surf Société, our unique digital women's surfing platform where we come together to Learn More. Surf Better. Live Happy. Learn more at Surfsociete.com

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Support the show

Confessions of a Surf Lady, women's surfing podcast, is supported by The Surf Société, our unique digital women's surfing platform where we come together to Learn More. Surf Better. Live Happy. Learn more at Surfsociete.com

33. Brave Surfers and Chilly Waters: From Wollongong to Toronto16 Aug 202300:46:45

Surfing is an incredibly diverse sport, and in this episode we're bringing you two unique, but equally passionate surf lady communities: The Lake Surfistas from Canada and The Gong Gurfers from Australia.

Meet Spence of the Gong Gurfers and Robin of the Lake Surfistas in this Party Wave podcast episode where we link across three timezones to create a global surf lady conversation. You'll hear how the ladies in Wollongong braved the Australian waters, surfing every day in their SurfAid challenge and how Robin of the Lake Surfistas has surfed the often freezing cold waters of the great lakes for almost ten years!

This fun conversation allows us to celebrate our differences but highlight our collective passion for supporting our local women's surfing communities. Join us as we explore the diverse coastal experiences and discuss the differences and similarities between two surf lady communities from across the world.

Note: Since the recording of this episode Spence and Alisha have evolved The Gong Gurfers to the Go Go Gurfers. Follow them on Instagram (link below) to learn more about their journey as surf lady community leaders.

Main Themes:

  • [3:43] How The Lake Surfistas Great Lakes Community Started
  • [9:57] A day in the life of a Gong Gurfer
  • [27:32] Temperature differences between  Canada and Australia
  • [36:48] What's been unexpected in running a women's surf community?
  • [42:29] How to get in touch

Episode Sponsor:

Confessions of a Surf Lady is supported by The Surf Société, our unique digital women's surfing platform where we come together to Learn More. Surf Better. Live Happy.

Learn more at Surfsociete.com

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Confessions of a Surf Lady, women's surfing podcast, is supported by The Surf Société, our unique digital women's surfing platform where we come together to Learn More. Surf Better. Live Happy. Learn more at Surfsociete.com

31. From Visualization to Victory: How Florida Surfer Joann Bolton Harnessed Surf Visualization to Win Her First Competition16 Aug 202300:41:03

Did you know you could meditate your way to better surfing? Yes, you heard that right! You can improve your surfing without even touching the water.

In this episode, you'll meet Florida Surfer and Surf Société Member Joann Bolton. This incredible surf lady participated in The Surf Société's 21-day visualization challenge and wrote her custom visualization around one goal: to win her first competition.

After 21 days, Joann racked up enough points to win the challenge but her success does not stop there. A month later she went on to manifest her visualization and win her very first competition.

It's with so much pride that we get to share her story with you today. Her determination will get you fired up to paddle out and work on your goals.

In this episode Joann will share her experience using visualization techniques, the impact it had on their surfing skills, and how it spilled over into other areas of their life. Join us as we explore the art of visualization and the incredible results it can yield, both in and out of the water.

Main Themes:

  • "Don't take the ocean personally. It's very humbling. And just a bad session or a bad wave or a bad day isn't a reflection of who you are." - Joann Bolton
  • "I feel like I'd never regret investing in my surf education. Like, money I spend learning about how to surf has always come back and I've just been so rewarded." - Joann Bolton
  • "Learn as much as you can about how to paddle, how to read the break, how to stay safe, how to be respectful. Everything about surfing. It's all part of it." - Joann Bolton

Episode Sponsor:

Confessions of a Surf Lady is supported by The Surf Société, our unique digital women's surfing platform where we come together to Learn More. Surf Better. Live Happy.

Try out a membership with your first 2 weeks FREE visit Surfsociete.com/join

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Confessions of a Surf Lady, women's surfing podcast, is supported by The Surf Société, our unique digital women's surfing platform where we come together to Learn More. Surf Better. Live Happy. Learn more at Surfsociete.com

30. Welcome to Season 4 of Confessions of a Surf Lady16 Aug 202300:10:21

Hey Lady! I'm your host Laura Day and I'm so stoked to have you here. We're back with an all new Season of Confessions of a Surf Lady for you. Tune into this episode for a quick note from me before you dive into a juicy Season 4!

Episode Sponsor

Confessions of a Surf Lady is supported by The Surf Société, our unique digital women's surfing platform where we come together to Learn More. Surf Better. Live Happy.

Try out a membership with your first 2 weeks FREE visit Surfsociete.com/join

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Confessions of a Surf Lady, women's surfing podcast, is supported by The Surf Société, our unique digital women's surfing platform where we come together to Learn More. Surf Better. Live Happy. Learn more at Surfsociete.com

29. ✨An Update to my Listeners✨ <3 Laura Day31 Oct 202200:05:22

I'm closing my surfwear line iaera surf! Take advantage of our closing sale and Join the list:iaerasurf.com/closing

Tune in to hear a couple of important announcements about the podcast, The Surf Société and iaera surf.

Thanks so much for listening. I'm so grateful to have you here.
Your Host, Laura Day


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Confessions of a Surf Lady, women's surfing podcast, is supported by The Surf Société, our unique digital women's surfing platform where we come together to Learn More. Surf Better. Live Happy. Learn more at Surfsociete.com

28. C'est La Vie! iaera surf w/ Clarissa Kusel 31 Oct 202200:58:13

Join iaera surf's closing sale to get up to 50% off women's surfwear: iaerasurf.com/closing

In this episode, we're celebrating C'est La Vie Part 2 but instead of celebrating a breakup (refer to episode 10 for C'est La Vie Part 1), we're celebrating the closing of my surfwear line iaera surf.

In 2016, I (your host, Laura Day) created iaera surf, surfwear that fit and functioned for the everyday surf lady. Created to represent the uniqueness and beauty of every woman on the water.

6 years later my mission has evolved. Instead of creating a positive impact through representation, we're now focusing on giving women the resources to become empowered in the lineup through education at The Surf Société.

Now the time has come to close up shop at iaera surf. So I can focus all of my time and resources on making The Surf Société the best it can be for the women's surf community.

Join me and fellow surf lady, Clarissa Kusel of The Ocean is Female and Sea Blue Collective, in this episode of C'est La Vie! Part 2. You'll get a behind-the-scenes look at closing up shop at iaera surf, all the fun things we have going on at The Surf Société, and how you too can reframe failure a step in your journey.

Join iaera surf's closing sale to get up to 50% off women's surfwear: iaerasurf.com/closing

Send me a Message! Be sure to leave your contact info.

Support the show

Confessions of a Surf Lady, women's surfing podcast, is supported by The Surf Société, our unique digital women's surfing platform where we come together to Learn More. Surf Better. Live Happy. Learn more at Surfsociete.com

27. Personal Development, Evolution, and the Journey of being a Surf Entrepreneur w/ Brianna Ortega12 Aug 202200:43:01

Surfing is a journey and so is life as an entrepreneur in the surf industry. In this episode, we'll catch up with Brianna Ortega, founder of Sea Together Magazine and one of our very first guests here on Confessions of a Surf Lady Podcast.

Tune in for a very open conversation between host Laura Day and Artist Brianna Ortega about the ups and downs of pursuing passion projects and building businesses in the surf world. You'll get a glimpse of what it takes to start a grassroots movement supporting women's surf culture and how both Brianna and Laura have evolved as entrepreneurs and surfers over the last two years.

We'll talk about:

  • How Brianna is transitioning her women's surfing print magazine Sea Together into different mediums like workshops and retreats
  • Adaptability, flexibility, creativity, and how art is a portal to exploring different projects and different ideas
  • The process of pursuing a passion project can become something completely different than what you expected
  • The evolution you experience when you pivot a passion project
  • And So MUCH MORE!

Episode Resources:

Support the show when you become a member at The Surf Société.
Become a member here: Surfsociete.com/plans

Send me a Message! Be sure to leave your contact info.

Support the show

Confessions of a Surf Lady, women's surfing podcast, is supported by The Surf Société, our unique digital women's surfing platform where we come together to Learn More. Surf Better. Live Happy. Learn more at Surfsociete.com

71. Lakey Peterson on Competing, Progressing & Finding Joy in the Lineup22 May 202500:34:33

What does it take to perform at the highest level—and still enjoy surfing for yourself? Lakey Peterson has competed on the world stage for over a decade, but the journey hasn’t always been smooth—especially when expectations are high and results don’t go your way.

In this episode of Confessions of a Surf Lady: The First Women’s Surfing Podcast™, Lakey opens up about what it’s really like to chase progression, navigate fear, and still stay connected to joy in the water. We talk about the pressure of competition, the mental tools that keep her grounded, and why her relationship to surfing is evolving.

Whether you're pushing your own progression or simply trying to find more fun in your sessions, this conversation will remind you that surfing gets to be yours—no matter where you are in your journey.

Main Themes

  • Staying Grounded Through Competitive Pressure
    “Sometimes I just need to surf without a goal. That’s what keeps it fun.” – Lakey Peterson
  • Not Growing Up in Surf Culture—And Still Making It
    “I didn’t have a surfy upbringing. I had to ask a lot of questions and figure it out.” – Lakey Peterson
  • Representation & Progression in Women’s Surfing
    “When I started, it was about who looked good in a bikini. Now it’s about how hard you charge.” – Lakey Peterson

Resources:

How to Support the Podcast:

  1. 💙 Support our sponsors – They help keep this show going!
  2. 🛍️ Shop at shop.surfsociete.com – Support women-centered surfwear and community.
  3. ⭐ Leave a Review – It helps more women find us on Apple Podcasts and Spotify.
  4. 📲 Share this episode – Send it to a surf sister who needs to hear this.
  5. 🌊 Join Surf Société – Come learn and surf better inside a powerful, like-minded women's community.

Send me a Message! Be sure to leave your contact info.

Support the show

Confessions of a Surf Lady, women's surfing podcast, is supported by The Surf Société, our unique digital women's surfing platform where we come together to Learn More. Surf Better. Live Happy. Learn more at Surfsociete.com

26. Living Legends: The Original Gidget, The Co-Director of the First Women's Pro Event, & a 2x World Champion from Hawaii Known for Her Fierce Style13 Jul 202200:42:12

Meet 3 living legends who paved the way for women's surfing in this sneak peek of exclusive events at The Surf Société. Kathy Kohner Zuckerman (The Original Gidget), Terry Eselun, and Lynne Boyer join us and share their experiences surfing in the '50s and '70s.

Tune in to meet:

  • Kathy Kohner Zuckerman - Kathy grew up learning to surf in Malibu in the '50s. Kathy shared her experiences with her father who was inspired to write a fictional novel based on her stories. Gidget: A little girl with big ideas sold more than half a million copies and was later adopted into 2 movies and a television series. Gidget is known for having a significant modern influence on popular surf culture.
  • Terry Eselun - Terry played an integral role in the development of women's professional surfing. Having been fed up with the way female pros were treated in competition, Terry along with Jericho Poplar co-directed the first international professional women's surfing competition in Malibu. 
  • Lynne Boyer - This 2x world champion and all-around charger was known for her fierce surf style in the '70s. If you haven't YouTubed Lynne Boyer I suggest you take a minute to do so and prepare to be amazed.

Episode Resources:

Send me a Message! Be sure to leave your contact info.

Support the show

Confessions of a Surf Lady, women's surfing podcast, is supported by The Surf Société, our unique digital women's surfing platform where we come together to Learn More. Surf Better. Live Happy. Learn more at Surfsociete.com

25. Speaking Up for Lineup Safety w/ Farrah Monfort29 Jun 202201:05:04

The lineup can be a tough place. How do you express yourself when someone disregards safety and etiquette in the lineup? Do you feel the need to speak up or is paddling away more your style? In this episode, you'll hear about an incident that started with a  board to the face, continued with a confrontation, and resulted in an ending you wouldn't expect!

Tune in to meet fellow podcast listener, surf pal, and surf lady who was hit in the face with a wave storm: Farrah Monfort.

Farrah is an energetic San Diego surfer whom I met through the podcast, bonded with at The Surf Société, and (being the shorties of the group) shared the back row of the suburban on Manny Vargas' Epic Surf Tour to Baja Mexico.

Tune in to hear: 

  • 2 incidents from our surf sessions and the lessons on safety and etiquette we're taking away
  • How a surfboard to the face bent Farrah's nose ring and attitude out of shape in the lineup
  • How speaking up for lineup safety can be uncomfortable BUT necessary
  • How we, as individuals, can contribute the community vibe in the lineup
  • AND SO MUCH MORE!

Episode Resources:


Send me a Message! Be sure to leave your contact info.

Support the show

Confessions of a Surf Lady, women's surfing podcast, is supported by The Surf Société, our unique digital women's surfing platform where we come together to Learn More. Surf Better. Live Happy. Learn more at Surfsociete.com

24. Surf FOMO and Social Media: Surfing, Mom-ing, & Micro-Influencing w/ Ashley Neelands15 Jun 202200:51:27

There's a fine line between finding SURF INSPO and feeling SURF FOMO when it comes to Instagram. Which one do you experience the most when browsing the social media platform?

In part 2 of our conversation on Social Media and Surfing, you'll meet Ashley Neelands: Surfer, Mom, & California Micro-Influencer. Since 2016, Ashley has been using Instagram to showcase her dreamy boho California lifestyle. Her beautiful account and friendly personality have gained her opportunities to collaborate with brands like Peter Grimm, Billabong, and even our brand iaera surf! In this episode, you'll get to hear this influencer's perspective on Surf FOMO and Social Media.

Tune in to hear:

  • The reality of the perfect Instagram shot and how it isn't as perfect as it may seem
  • Ashley's daily practice of staying grounded and maintaining a healthy mental mindset while using Instagram
  • Surf Lady Confessions to: How does social media affect your relationship with Surfing 
  • AND SO MUCH MORE!

Episode Resources: 

  • Step up your surf game and join The Surf Société HERE.
  • Follow Ashley Neelands on Instagram: @ashley.neelands

Support the show and join a women's surfing community where we Learn More. Surf Better. Live Happy. Join The Surf Société Here.


Send me a Message! Be sure to leave your contact info.

Support the show

Confessions of a Surf Lady, women's surfing podcast, is supported by The Surf Société, our unique digital women's surfing platform where we come together to Learn More. Surf Better. Live Happy. Learn more at Surfsociete.com

23. Being Real is Impressive: Surfing and Social Media w/ Angie Rivera18 Feb 202200:36:58

Forget about being impressive and commit to being real. Because being real is impressive - Jonathan Harnisch. Let's get REAL. With social media platforms like Instagram, the representation of women's surfing has evolved immensly within just a couple of years.  While Instagram is a great place to find surf inspiration, it's also a platform that lends itself to disingenous content creation in order to rack up likes and follows.

Join host Laura Day and favorite surf pal Angie Rivera in this chat about what it means to be an authentic surf lady in a landscape of famous IG surf influencers who may not actually be living the real surf life.

Episode Resources: 



Send me a Message! Be sure to leave your contact info.

Support the show

Confessions of a Surf Lady, women's surfing podcast, is supported by The Surf Société, our unique digital women's surfing platform where we come together to Learn More. Surf Better. Live Happy. Learn more at Surfsociete.com

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