We talk with guests about fitness, technique and any SUP subject geared to help and inspire across all skill and experience levels and give you what you need to get the most out of your stand-up paddleboard experience.
We cover all disciplines from SUP adventure and SUP surfing to down-winding and we discuss issues affecting stand-up paddleboarders globally.
Our mission is to help you get on your board more, move your paddling onto the next level and increase the physical and mental health benefits for everyone who has embraced this vibrant water-sport world-wide.
If you have a story to tell, or would like to share your stoke then DM us on Instagram @supfmpodcast
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10th Anniversary Edition - Racing, Adventure & What Comes Next - With SUPjunkie
Season 8 · Episode 138
Monday, February 23, 2026 • Duration 01:44:20
What happens when the interviewer becomes the interviewee?
In this special anniversary episode, Sarah flips the format and sits down with Simon to reflect on 10 years of SUPfm — the conversations, lessons, and unexpected moments that have shaped the show.
Featuring clips from past guests including Michael Booth, Rylee Walker, Wallace J. Nichols, the SUP Vets and others, this episode explores the evolution of the podcast and SUP, the power of community, and what keeps people coming back to the water.
It’s a reflective, honest look at what the podcast has uncovered from elite performance to adventure, recovery, mental health, and belonging.
In this episode, we cover:
How SUPfm started — and what’s changed over 138 episodes
The most essential lessons from world-class paddlers
Why community sits at the heart of paddleboarding
The emotional moments that shaped the show
What the future might hold for SUP and SUPfm
Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share this episode with someone who’d love it!
AND subscribe to our newsletter here and get your FREE guide to the apps we recommend, to live your best SUP life
Build the lifetime knowledge you need to keep safe on the water
Our comprehensive online SUP Safety Course gives you the knowledge you need, to keep safe on the water and ALL FOR LESS than the price of an hours on-water tuition £37 £10
Oscar Propulsion's innovative FlowForce Paddle, dramatically enhances paddling efficiency and reduces stress through the body.
Join the revolution and elevate your paddling with FlowForce from Oscar Propulsion Sport
If you long to wake up to the sound of the waves then these luxurious beachside holiday retreats are perfect for holidays (and podcast recording sessions).
We have an exclusive limited term offer where you can get 10% off your stay in April with the code SUPFM10 (Code expires March 31st 2026. T&Cs apply. Follow link for more details)
Starboard have supported the podcast over many years, and we love Starboard for their commitment to quality, to innovation AND their responsible environmental leadership.
Check out their new Airline Sprint and Allstar models - with patented technology which delivers a rigidity that feels almost like a composite board.
A Year on the Water - The SUPfm Podcast's 2025 Annual Review with Sarah Thornley
Season 8 · Episode 137
Monday, December 15, 2025 • Duration 01:41:37
It's been quite a year on the water. From thrilling race finishes to emotional farewells, this episode marks SUPfm’s review of 2025 with reflection, gratitude, and a look to the future.
Simon and Sarah “SUPJunkie” Thornley come together and are joined by familiar voices from across the paddling world, including British paddler Emily King, endurance powerhouse Tanja Ecker, SUP adventurer John McFazean, and an exclusive “on-the-ground” report direct from our reporter at Last Paddler Standing 2025.
We look back on the highs and the lows that defined the SUP year — including world championship triumphs and record-breaking ultras and the sad closure of SUPMagUK and The Paddler magazines.
In this episode, we discuss:
• The highlights from the 2025 ISA and ICF World Championships
• The rise of endurance and ultra-distance paddle challenges
• Insights from Tanja Ecker and from Last Paddler Standing 2025
• Reflections on the legacy of SUPMagUK and The Paddler
• A forward look at SUP’s 2032 Olympic future
We didn't have a chance to cover the results of the Sprint finals of the ISA soe here they are:
Women's ISA Sprint
1) Mariecarmen Rivera
2) Alba Alonso
3) Cecilia Pampinella
Men's ISA Sprint
1) Christian Anderson
2) Ethan Bry
3) Sergio Cantoral
Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share this episode with someone who’d love it!
Into the Great Bear – Norm Hann’s Adventures on Canada’s Wild Coast
Season 8 · Episode 136
Monday, December 8, 2025 • Duration 01:53:37
What happens when you trade a safe and secure teaching career, for a life on the wild side.
We sit down with Norm Hann, Canadian expedition paddler, guide, and educator — known for his work in the Great Bear Rainforest and for pioneering multi-day SUP expeditions on Canada’s wild coast.
Norm shares his remarkable transformation from a classroom teacher in Ontario to a wilderness guide and advocate for the Great Bear Rainforest. From being adopted into the Raven Clan in Hartley Bay to shaping the early days of stand-up paddleboarding, Norm’s story is about courage, connection, and following your calling.
In this episode, Norm shares:
How leaving a secure career opened the door to purpose and adventure
What makes the Great Bear Rainforest one of the planet’s most magical places
How his adoption into the Raven Clan shaped his identity and outlook
The origins of his pioneering SUP expeditions on Canada’s west coast
Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share this episode with someone who’d love it!
Keep up with the SUPfm Podcast:
on Facebook:
The SUPfm Podcast Book Club 2025 – With Dan Rubinstein
Season 8 · Episode 135
Monday, December 1, 2025 • Duration 01:03:31
Need some inspiration for your next paddling read — or a gift for the paddler in your life? The annual SUPfm Book Club brings together stories and reflections shaped by water, nature, and people who find meaning in both.
Simon is joined by returning journalist and author Dan Rubinstein, whose celebrated book Waterborne explores the transformative power of paddling, connection, and blue space.
In this episode, Simon and Dan reflect on a carefully chosen collection of books that explore our human relationship with water and nature.
From Tristan Gooley’s quiet lessons in observation, to Jo Moseley’s joyful journeys, each title offers something different — insight, wonder, or emotional depth — for every kind of paddler and reader.
Whether you’re looking for a personal read or the perfect gift, this episode will guide you through a shelf’s worth of inspiration that celebrates water as teacher, mirror, and muse.
In this episode, we discuss:
The Hidden Seasons by Tristan Gooley — how tuning into subtle seasonal shifts deepens our time outdoors
It’s Only Drowning by David Litt — confronting loss and renewal through immersion in the element itself
Water Borne — Dan Rubinstein’s reflections on identity, connection, and what paddling teaches us about ourselves
by Robert Macfarlane — exploring the boundaries of science, poetry, and spirituality
Paddling in the Land of Genghis Khan: An Expedition Down Mongolia’s Hidden Rivers
Season 8 · Episode 134
Monday, November 24, 2025 • Duration 53:21
What does it take to paddle through one of the world’s most remote landscapes — where eagles soar, nomads wave from the riverbank, and adventure begins the moment you leave the city?
In this episode, Simon reconnects with Matt Phillips (last heard from in our Amazon Adventure episode) to relive his latest expedition through Mongolia shared with Phil from Canoe Safaris New Zealand .
From river rapids and remote nomadic encounters to frozen mornings and bacon-fuelled lunches, Matt shares a raw, funny, and inspiring diary of what it means to chase wilderness in its truest form.
In this episode, Matt shares:
The inspiration and plan behind an off-grid Mongolian paddle expedition
Encounters with nomads, wildlife, and the vast isolation of the steppe
The joys and chaos of river life — from rainstorms to lumpy tea
Lessons in adaptability, curiosity, and staying open to the unknown
Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share this episode with someone who’d love it!
Keep up with SUPfm:
on Facebook:
Mental Performance in SUP: Building an Elite Mindset with Kirsty MacMillan
Season 8 · Episode 133
Monday, November 17, 2025 • Duration 01:19:23
What if the key to paddling better isn’t more training — but better thinking?
We sit down with Kirsty MacMillan, Paddle Monster Coach coach and founder of MacMillan Elite Mindset, who helps athletes at all levels to unlock their potential by strengthening the mental side of performance.
In this fascinating conversation, Kirsty shares how she discovered SUP ten years ago, developed her competitive edge, and turned that passion into a career helping paddlers improve their mental game. From visualization and awareness to focus and emotional regulation, Kirsty explains how mindset drives performance — both on the water and in life.
In this episode, Kirsty shares:
How a surf lesson gone sideways led to a lifelong SUP obsession
Why the mental domain drives every aspect of performance
Seven key mental skills every paddler can develop
The science behind visualization and remaining calm under pressure
How to use “Well–Better–How” to turn every race into growth
The difference between fixed and growth mindsets — and why it matters
SUP News Update : Wollen's SUPer Festival 2025 / SUP Connect Awards / Charlie Head /
Season 8 · Episode 132
Wednesday, September 3, 2025 • Duration 11:18
We'll be back with our regular episodes later in the year, but this mid-season update covers the upcoming Wollens Super Festival, the winners of the 16th annual SUP Connect Awards, a historic solo crossing by adventurer Charlie Head, and a monumental fundraising cycle journey by Stuart McLean in memory of his wife, Dr. Julia Hamilton.
Events: The weekend showcases a variety of competitions including sprint, technical, distance, and prone racing. The popular SUP polo tournament will also be making a return, watch last year's footage here.
For Everyone: If racing isn't your interest, Aqua Paddle is hosting a free 5K event at 8:00 AM on Saturday, September 6th. There are events for all levels, from first-time paddlers to seasoned competitors.
Special Offers: Junior Paddle UK members have the opportunity to compete in selected races for free.
Man of the Year: Michael Booth was recognized for his consistent excellence and his mentoring of athletes.
Woman of the Year : Espe Barreras from Spain won for her dominance in competition and her commitment to the sport.
Grom of the Year: 16-year-old Soryn Preston received this year's award.
Industry Awards: Red Paddle Co. was named Brand of the Year, and EasySUP SUPStore in the Netherlands was named Shop of the Year.
Beyond the Basics: Larry Cain on Training Smarter for SUP Racing
Season 8 · Episode 131
Monday, July 7, 2025 • Duration 01:25:48
In this episode of the SUPfm Podcast, we sit down with Larry Cain, Olympic gold medallist, renowned paddle coach, and co-founder of Paddle Monster, known for elevating paddlers at every level with world-class coaching and grounded technique.
Join us as we discuss the mindset, mechanics, and methods that help intermediate SUP racers building on the foundations to unlock speed, endurance, and consistency.
In this conversation, Larry shares elite-level insights made accessible, including:
The two-phase paddle stroke, and why unloading is just as important as loading
How to train your nervous system and cadence to sharpen power without losing connection
The four pillars of high performance: technique, aerobic fitness, strength + power, and mental resilience
We also dive into video analysis, interval structuring, and how to stay out of the overtraining trap, plus Larry’s advice on when it’s time to train in a gym—and when the jungle gym will do just fine.
Whether you're a weekend racer hungry for results or a seasoned paddler looking to refine form and build speed, this episode offers world-class coaching wisdom from one of the sport’s most trusted voices.
Get more from Larry at the new PaddleMonster website
Physical Preparation for Racing : Larry Cain's Guide for SUP Beginners
Season 8 · Episode 130
Monday, June 30, 2025 • Duration 54:37
This week we sit down with Larry Cain, Olympic gold medalist, legendary coach, and the force behind Paddle Monster, known for elevating paddlers of all levels with their world-class coaching.
Join us as we explore the critical role of coaching for beginners, and why establishing proper technique from day one can fast-track your progress and prevent years of unlearning bad habits.
In this conversation, Larry shares insights drawn from decades of elite competition and coaching, including:
The six essential principles of effective SUP technique
Why land-based drills are an underrated superpower
How to build technique, fitness, and strength in balance—without overcomplicating things
We also dive into the importance of nervous system imprinting, training the body for movement efficiency, and the best off-water ways to stay paddle-fit in the off-season.
Larry breaks down beginner misconceptions and shows how you can learn the most by doing the least—if you focus on the right fundamentals.
Whether you’re just starting out, looking to race, or ready to move better, faster, and smarter, this episode offers invaluable takeaways, practical exercises, and mindset shifts from one of SUP’s wisest coaches.
In the first of three special 'How To' episodes, we sit down to pull out the hows and the why of stand-up paddleboard racing with Sarah “SUP Junkie” Thornely, former GB national champion, and popular choice winner of the 2024 SUP Connect Woman of the Year award, recognized for her tireless work championing SUP racing.
Whether you’re an aspiring racer, a recreational paddler looking for a new challenge, or simply SUP-curious, this episode offers the actionable insights, encouragement, and stories that will inspire you to get on the start line—no matter where you’re starting from.
We’re also joined by Brett, founder of Aqua Paddle, a groundbreaking initiative making SUP racing accessible to all and by Lizzie and Suzanne who both took part in their first ever paddle race earlier this year.
We explore what it takes to dip into the world of SUP racing for the first time—whether you’re a seasoned athlete looking for a new challenge, a recreational paddler seeking a fresh goal, or a total newcomer curious about competition.
Sarah shares unique insights and personal stories from her own journey as a “level three” beginner—someone with little competitive or paddling experience—who discovered her competitive spark at her very first race.
She offers practical advice for overcoming nerves, choosing your first event, and finding your place in the supportive SUP community.
Specific topics include:
The three types of beginner racers and how to identify your starting point
Sarah’s first race experience and the unexpected joy of discovering her competitive side
The importance of community, support, and just “taking the plunge”
We also dive into Brett’s inspiring work with Aqua Paddle—a “Parkrun for paddlers”—which offers free, timed 5K paddles for all abilities and crafts. Brett discusses:
AND subscribe to our newsletter here and get your FREE guide to the apps we recommend, to live your best SUP life
Build the lifetime knowledge you need to keep safe on the water
Our comprehensive online SUP Safety Course gives you the knowledge you need, to keep safe on the water and ALL FOR LESS than the price of an hours on-water tuition £37 £10
Oscar Propulsion's innovative FlowForce Paddle, dramatically enhances paddling efficiency and reduces stress through the body.
Join the revolution and elevate your paddling with FlowForce from Oscar Propulsion Sport
Book now to take part in 2026's most exciting racing event as the ICF World Cup hits the beautiful waters of Torbay between June 24th and 28th, combining with the PaddleUK Super Festival
Book before the end of December 2025 for discounted entry
We want to thank our lead sponsor Starboard for supporting this season of the SUPfm Podcast
Whether you're a seasoned racer, an adventurous explorer, or a beginner, Starboard has the perfect board for you.
Choose Starboard for unparalleled quality and performance across all levels of paddleboarding
AND subscribe to our newsletter here and get your FREE guide to the apps we recommend, to live your best SUP life
Build the lifetime knowledge you need to keep safe on the water
Our comprehensive online SUP Safety Course gives you the knowledge you need, to keep safe on the water and ALL FOR LESS than the price of an hours on-water tuition £37 £10
Book now to take part in 2026's most exciting racing event as the ICF World Cup hits the beautiful waters of Torbay between June 24th and 28th, combining with the PaddleUK Super Festival
Book before the end of December 2025 for discounted entry
Oscar Propulsion's innovative FlowForce Paddle, dramatically enhances paddling efficiency and reduces stress through the body.
Join the revolution and elevate your paddling with FlowForce from Oscar Propulsion Sport
We want to thank our lead sponsor Starboard for supporting this season of the SUPfm Podcast
Whether you're a seasoned racer, an adventurous explorer, or a beginner, Starboard has the perfect
Is a River Alive?
Adventures on the Waterby Jo Moseley — a celebration of joy, courage, and community through SUP
Theory of Water by Leanne Betasamosake Simpson — an Indigenous perspective on flow, language, and resilience
Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share this episode with someone who’d love it!
AND subscribe to our newsletter here and get your FREE guide to the apps we recommend, to live your best SUP life
Build the lifetime knowledge you need to keep safe on the water
Our comprehensive online SUP Safety Course gives you the knowledge you need, to keep safe on the water and ALL FOR LESS than the price of an hours on-water tuition £37 £10
AND subscribe to our newsletter here and get your FREE guide to the apps we recommend, to live your best SUP life
Build the lifetime knowledge you need to keep safe on the water
Our comprehensive online SUP Safety Course gives you the knowledge you need, to keep safe on the water and ALL FOR LESS than the price of an hours on-water tuition £37 £10
We want to thank our lead sponsor Starboard for supporting this season of the SUPfm Podcast
Whether you're a seasoned racer, an adventurous explorer, or a beginner, Starboard has the perfect board for you.
Choose Starboard for unparalleled quality and performance across all levels of paddleboarding
Book now to take part in 2026's most exciting racing event as the ICF World Cup hits the beautiful waters of Torbay between June 24th and 28th, combining with the PaddleUK Super Festival
Book before the end of December 2025 for discounted entry
AND subscribe to our newsletterhere and get your FREE guide to the apps we recommend, to live your best SUP life
Build the lifetime knowledge you need to keep safe on the water
Our comprehensive online SUP Safety Course gives you the knowledge you need, to keep safe on the water and ALL FOR LESS than the price of an hours on-water tuition £37 £10
We want to thank our lead sponsor Starboard for supporting this season of the SUPfm Podcast
Whether you're a seasoned racer, an adventurous explorer, or a beginner, Starboard has the perfect board for you.
Choose Starboard for unparalleled quality and performance across all levels of paddleboarding
Oscar Propulsion's innovative FlowForce Paddle, dramatically enhances paddling efficiency and reduces stress through the body.
Join the revolution and elevate your paddling with FlowForce from Oscar Propulsion Sport
Book now to take part in 2026's most exciting racing event as the ICF...
Sales Rep of the Year: Alistair Duncan of Red Paddle Co. was recognized for his professionalism and dedication.
Charlie Head's Shetland to Orkney Crossing
British adventurer Charlie Head completed a historic first solo stand-up paddleboard crossing from Shetland to Orkney, a journey of over 100 miles across the open ocean.
The crossing was a fundraiser for Sea Shepherd to support marine conservation. Support Sea Shepherd here
On August 21st, 2025, paddler Stuart McLean and his friend Gavin began the "Le Jog" cycle challenge, riding from Lands End to John O'Groats.
The ride is in memory of Stuart’s wife, Dr. Julia Hamilton, a fellow paddleboarder who tragically lost her life in a paddleboarding accident last year.
Stuart is using the journey to raise awareness and urge paddlers on rivers or tidal waters to switch from ankle leashes to quick-release waist belts.
Stuart is...
Paddle Monster is a global community for paddlers training for fitness, competition, or both.
They connect paddlers so they can meet up at events, share rides, buy, sell, or borrow gear, and support each other through weekly workouts, races, and paddle adventures.
Members also get access to hundreds of exclusive videos and articles on technique, training, and strategy—plus challenges like our 100/100, starting July 9th.
If you want more structure, you can add coaching, nutrition counseling, mental performance training, or 1-on-1 technique analysis from experts like Larry Cain, Travis Grant, Victoria Burgess, and Kirsty MacMillan.
No matter who your coach is, it's a great place to train, learn, and connect.
If you haven’t checked out Paddle Monster in a while, this is a completely new platform and website—it’s a huge upgrade.
AND subscribe to our newsletter here and get your FREE guide to the apps we recommend, to live your best SUP life
Build the lifetime knowledge you need to keep safe on the water
Our comprehensive online SUP Safety Course gives you the knowledge you need, to keep safe on the water and ALL FOR LESS than the price of an hours on-water tuition (£37) £10
🎧 Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share this episode with someone who’d love it.
Paddle Monster is a global community for paddlers training for fitness, competition, or both.
They connect paddlers so they can meet up at events, share rides, buy, sell, or borrow gear, and support each other through weekly workouts, races, and paddle adventures.
Members also get access to hundreds of exclusive videos and articles on technique, training, and strategy—plus challenges like our 100/100, starting July 9th.
If you want more structure, you can add coaching, nutrition counseling, mental performance training, or 1-on-1 technique analysis from experts like Larry Cain, Travis Grant, Victoria Burgess, and Kirsty MacMillan.
No matter who your coach is, it's a great place to train, learn, and connect.
If you haven’t checked out Paddle Monster in a while, this is a completely new platform and website—it’s a huge upgrade.
Discover shows related to SUPfm The International Stand Up Paddle Board Podcast, based on actual content similarities. Explore podcasts with similar topics, themes, and formats, backed by real data.
