In this conversation, April Denny shares her journey from growing up in Marin County, California, to becoming a PhD candidate focused on human movement and performance in surfing. She discusses her experiences as a lifeguard, her transition to studying kinesiology, and her research on elite female athletes as part of the Paddle to Podium project.

April emphasizes the importance of a holistic approach to training and the need for injury prevention in surfing. She also reflects on her time in Australia, working closely with athletes and coaches, and her aspirations for the future.

Surf Strong Show

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April on Facebook

April on Instagram

Chapters

00:00 Growing Up by the Ocean

03:05 Transitioning to College Life

06:01 Exploring Kinesiology and Lifeguarding

08:55 Researching Big Wave Surfers

11:07 Journey to Graduate Studies

13:56 Lifeguarding at Ocean Beach

16:49 Training and Team Dynamics

19:50 Experiences at Kelly Slater's Wave Park

22:20 The Unique Environment of Wave Parks

27:10 The Dynamics of Surfing and Performance Improvement

32:26 Research and Education in Surfing

36:34 Navigating the PhD Journey

43:05 Cultural Insights: Surfing in Australia

48:11 Transitioning to a New Environment

51:22 Embedded Research and Athlete Support

55:19 Injury Prevention and Strength Training for Athletes

57:32 Research Focus: Preparing Female Athletes for the Olympics

01:01:23 Developing Effective Interventions for Skill Improvement

01:05:00 Challenges in Training Surfers vs. Swimmers

01:07:23 Key Findings on Stroke Dynamics and Injury Prevention

01:13:53 Community and Future Directions in Research

01:22:07 Podcast Outro.mp4

In this conversation, Jason shares his journey from academia to the military, detailing his experiences in combat and the challenges of transitioning to civilian life. He discusses the importance of finding purpose after service and highlights the mission of Operation Healing Forces, which focuses on supporting veterans and their families through retreats.

The conversation emphasizes the healing power of surfing, exploring how it fosters connection, personal challenge, and emotional growth. Jason reflects on the unique relationship with the ocean and the future of surf therapy in helping veterans navigate their post-military lives.

Links

Jason on Facebook

Operation Healing Forces

Information on contributing to future OHF Retreats

Takeaways

Jason transitioned from academia to the military seeking adventure.

Combat experience can lead to significant mental health challenges.

The transition from military to civilian life is often difficult.

Finding purpose after service is crucial for veterans.

Operation Healing Forces provides support through couple retreats.

Surfing serves as a powerful therapeutic tool for veterans.

The ocean offers a unique connection that aids in healing.

Surfing requires complete focus, helping to clear the mind.

Building community and relationships is essential for veterans post-service.

The future of surf therapy holds promise for veterans' healing journeys.

Chapters

00:00 From Academia to the Military: A New Path

05:05 The Impact of 9/11 on Military Careers

07:52 Transitioning from Combat to Civilian Life

14:37 Finding Purpose After Special Forces

23:22 Joining Operation Healing Forces

34:56 Creating Safe Spaces for Conversations

42:21 Personal Journeys: From Novice to Surfer

47:31 The Immersive Experience of Surfing

52:35 The Unique Challenges of Surfing

01:01:08 Future Visions for Surf Therapy Retreats

Summary

In this conversation, Kate Clements shares her journey of personal growth, self-discovery, and the creation of her travel company, Room to Roam. She discusses the healing power of surfing and ocean therapy, particularly in the context of retreats for veterans. The conversation highlights the importance of community, connection, and the joy of learning to surf later in life, emphasizing that it's never too late to embrace new challenges and experiences.

Takeaways

- Reconnecting with home can lead to personal growth.

- Traveling and experiencing new cultures enriches life.

- Creating Room to Roam was a leap of faith.

- Surfing serves as a powerful form of therapy.

- Retreats for veterans provide meaningful connections.

- Learning to surf later in life is empowering.

- The ocean offers a unique perspective on life.

- Community support enhances personal wellness journeys.

- Embracing challenges leads to joy and fulfillment.

Connection with nature is vital for mental health.

Chapters

00:00 Reconnecting with Roots

06:37 Journey of Self-Discovery

12:34 Creating a Life of Purpose

18:25 Empowering Others through Surf Therapy

29:37 Choosing the Right Path

31:05 The Humbling Experience of Learning to Surf

36:11 Surfing as a Metaphor for Life

41:50 The Power of Presence in Surfing

48:11 The Illusion of Control in Surfing

49:09 Building Community Through Surfing

51:03 Focusing on Meaningful Connections

57:40 Supporting Veterans and Strengthening Bonds

59:26 Podcast Outro.mp4