Is surfing still a soulful pursuit — or has it become just another addiction we justify?
For lifelong surfers, the line between passion and obsession can blur fast. In this deep, brutally honest conversation, Michael Frampton and returning guest Scott Bass explore how our relationship with surfing matures (or doesn’t) as life’s priorities shift — from chasing swells to raising families to redefining self-worth beyond the next good session.
Discover why your relationship to surfing is just as important as your relationship with others
Learn how to balance stoke with responsibility without killing your passion
Hear personal stories of guilt, growth, obsession, and spiritual maturity from two surfers who've been through it all
Hit play now for a powerful exploration of what it really means to be a surfer — and how to surf through life with more clarity, connection, and self-respect.
Key Points
Discussion begins about defining what makes someone a surfer, with the suggestion that surfing must be in one's top 5 relationships.
Exploration of how life decisions (career, relationships) are influenced by surfing commitment.
Discussion about managing surfing as a relationship versus an addiction, introducing William Glasser's concept of 'positive addiction'.
Analysis of how surfing can be categorized into seven life areas: spiritual, mental/creative, vocational, financial, family, social, and physical.
Reflection on how the perception of being a 'surfer' has changed culturally, particularly in California versus other regions.
Discussion about evolving from an addictive relationship with surfing to a more mature, balanced approach as one ages.
For the passionate surfer—whether you're a weekend warrior, a surf dad, or an older surfer—this podcast is all about better surfing and deeper stoke. With expert surf coaching, surf training, and surfing tips, we’ll help you catch more waves, refine your paddling technique, and perfect your pop up on a surfboard. From surf workouts to handling wipeouts, chasing bigger waves, and mastering surf technique, we’re here to make sure you not only improve but truly enjoy surfing more—so you can get more out of every session and become a wiser surfer. Go from Beginner or intermediate Surfer to advanced.