Episodes

  • 12. Liz Cantor: Waves, Wildcards & the World Stage
    Apr 24 2025

    Tappa sits down with surfer, TV presenter, and reality show winner Liz Cantor — a true trailblazer who went from grommet in the lineup to becoming the first-ever female judge on the World Championship Surfing Tour.

    Liz shares the story of her surf-stoked upbringing, her unexpected breakthrough in judging (spoiler: she was too accurate to ignore), and her jump into the media spotlight — from winning The Mole to presenting weather, hosting live radio, and more.

    The chat flows from surfing and storm chasing to family life, horse riding, and the chaos of reality TV relationships. Liz reflects on the evolution of women’s representation in surfing, the media’s role in surf safety, and how to balance passion, parenting, and public life without wiping out.

    It’s candid, inspiring, and just the right amount of unpredictable — just like Liz.

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    47 mins
  • 11. Matt Formston: No Such Thing as Can’t
    Apr 17 2025

    Tappa sits down with world champion cyclist, Paralympian, and adaptive surfing legend Matt Formston—a man who proves every day that limits are made to be broken.

    Born with vision loss, Matt shares his incredible journey through elite sport, from tearing it up on the track to charging big waves on a surfboard. He opens up about how he got into surfing (hint: there was a boogie board and a brutal rejection involved), and the mindset that’s helped him push boundaries in every direction.

    The chat dives into everything from surfboard tech and high-performance training, to the importance of safety, communication, and inclusion in extreme sports. Matt also shares his work on a children’s book promoting accessibility, and the powerful role family plays in chasing big goals.

    This is a story about sport, yes—but more than that, it’s about resilience, self-belief, and living proof that there really is no such thing as can’t.

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    46 mins
  • Anthony ‘Harries’ Carroll: Bondi Rescue and Beyond
    Apr 11 2025

    Tappa sits down with the unmistakable Anthony ‘Harries’ Carroll — the larger-than-life lifeguard from Bondi Rescue.

    From dramatic saves to celeb run-ins (yes, Hugh Jackman and Joel Edgerton both know him by name), Harries shares the stories behind the sunnies — including how he became one of Bondi’s most recognisable faces.

    But this convo goes deeper than rip currents. Harries and Tappa chat about surfing, self-discipline, fatherhood, mental health, nutrition, and why teaching kids to respect the ocean is more crucial than ever. It’s heartfelt, hilarious, and full of life lessons from the beach and beyond.

    Whether you’ve watched him on TV or just love a good yarn, this episode is packed with wisdom, waves, and wild tales you won’t want to miss.

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    1 hr and 5 mins
  • 9. Ian Byrne: Shaping Waves, Boards, and a Legacy
    Apr 4 2025

    Tappa sits down with legendary surfboard shaper Ian Byrne—yes, from that Byrne family—to talk surf, legacy, and the art of making boards that not only ride waves but win hearts. Ian opens up about growing up in a surfing dynasty in New Zealand, the influence of his brothers, and how a few life-changing trips to Hawaii helped shape (literally) his career.

    We dive into the craft of hand-shaping boards, the soul of single fin surfing, and how the House of Byrne has evolved without losing its roots. Ian reflects on how family, community, and tradition continue to guide his work in a world of mass production, and why keeping the human touch alive in the surf industry is more important than ever.

    Whether you're a surfer, a shaper, or just froth over good storytelling, this episode will leave you waxing nostalgic for the golden days—while getting stoked for the future.

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    41 mins
  • 8. Shannon Hayes: Capturing the Soul of Surfing Through the Lens
    Mar 28 2025

    Tappa sits down with surf photographer and videographer Shannon Hayes, whose work is making waves in the male-dominated world of surf media.

    From growing up on the Gold Coast to filming some of the best surfers in the world, Shannon shares her journey, the challenges of being a female videographer in the industry, and her passion for capturing the raw energy of surfing from the water.

    She talks about her collaborations with pro surfers, including the making of her film '22' with Annie DeSantos, the evolution of surf films, and the growing presence of women in surf media. Expect insights on lighting, travel tips for photographers, and her favorite surf spots—all with the stoke and excitement that fuel her creative process.

    If you're passionate about surf photography, filmmaking, or just love a good behind-the-scenes story, this one’s for you!

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    45 mins
  • 7. Tony "Doris" Eltherington: From Plywood to Perfect Waves & a Legendary Ocean Rescue
    Mar 21 2025

    Tappa sits down with legendary surfer, boat captain, and Indo surf pioneer Tony "Doris" Eltherington. From his early days body surfing on scraps of plywood on the Gold Coast to navigating uncharted waves in Indonesia, Tony has spent a lifetime chasing the ocean’s best-kept secrets.

    We dive into his competitive surfing days, the evolution of surfboards, and his wildest adventures on the high seas—including the time he rescued Brett Archibald, a lost surfer who survived 28 hours drifting in the ocean. 🏄‍♂️⚓

    With tales of Mentawai magic, near-misses, and the importance of giving back to local communities, this episode is packed with history, heart, and a whole lot of salty wisdom. Tune in now for a ride you won’t forget! 🎙️🌊

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    36 mins
  • 6. Darren Handley: Shaping Surfing’s Future
    Mar 14 2025

    Tappa sits down with legendary surfboard shaper Darren Handley. From his early days in Kirra to shaping boards for icons like Mick Fanning and Steph Gilmore, Darren shares his journey from Australian rules football to surfing and, ultimately, to becoming one of the most respected shapers in the industry.

    They dive into the evolution of Kirra’s surf culture, the balance of artistry and engineering in board design, and how custom shaping impacts everyday surfers. Darren also opens up about the emotional highs and lows of competitive surfing, the challenges of sustainability in board production, and the future of shaping in a world of wave pools.

    With decades of experience and a lifelong passion for creating the perfect ride, Darren gives us an inside look at the craft, innovation, and dedication behind the boards that define modern surfing.

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    42 mins
  • 5. Glen Workman: From Footy to Waves – Training Surfing’s Elite
    Mar 10 2025

    Tappa sits down with Glen Workman—better known as Worko—a former rugby league player turned high-performance coach for elite surfers.

    Worko takes us through his unexpected journey from footy fields to surf breaks, sharing what it’s like to train Olympians and the unique demands of surfing as a sport. He explains how surf coaching is more art than science, requiring a completely different approach compared to other sports.

    We dive into the strength and conditioning secrets behind top-tier surfers and discuss the importance of injury prevention. Worko also breaks down how training for surfing is unlike any other sport and why it requires a more individualised approach.

    We explore the evolution of youth programs and the key differences in training male and female surfers. Worko also gives us his take on the future of competitive surfing and how the sport continues to evolve.

    With years of experience shaping the next generation of surfing greats, Worko brings insight, wisdom, and plenty of epic stories. Tune in for a fresh perspective on what it really takes to make it in the world of surfing!

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    35 mins
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