The Mark Schulein Passion Project

Adam Cleary is 3rd generation Newport Beach, California and thus his kids are 4th gen. There are very few families that can claim this. His heritage goes back 100 years in Newport; which was VERY different at that time. Remote, small, nominally populated, agricultural and fishing focused. It was NOT what it is today. Adam's family has a long history of passions for, and careers associated with, the ocean. A big sailing, boating and surfing family that has close ties with Hawaii going back decades; the family flame for the ocean and surfing has not lessened. Not whatsoever. This is all foundational to Adam's passion project; Snug Harbor Surf Park. Adam is the brainchild and frontman, along with a deep team of locals, engaged in this project that is in development for Newport Beach. Adam shares the vision, the “why” and provides clarity on what Snug Harbor will be, and what it won't be. There is a ton of information provided to help the community understand this aspirational and impressive project, what happens if it goes through… and what happens if it doesn't.

Gael Dutigny is… the most interesting man in the world. Raised in Paris to a father that was an arms dealer, a mother that always worked two jobs in the fitness world, and a grandfather that was a POW during WWII. If you listen closely you can hear the clear impact of his upbringing. He is incredibly well traveled and has lived in 5 countries and speaks three languages fluently. He also has three masters degrees and is contemplating his next one. Gael has been an accomplished journalist for decades and was embedded in Iraq and Afghanistan with the US Army during wartime. He ran the Honolulu Marathon… IN Iraq. He's run 44 marathons including 8 NYC Marathons and completed 17 Ironmans. He has done MANY ultra distance events including 4 UTMB (Ultra Trail Mont Blanc,) 10 Marathon De Sables (6 days and 155 miles across the Moroccan desert,) 3 Hong Kong 100's, and many more. And yes, he's even surfed Teahupoo with Raimana and golfed with Kelly Slater. With all of this in his back pocket, he is equally gnarly and impressive and interesting. You'll like Gael and his view of the world; as he is not your common guy doing common things. Not even close. Find more about Gael at Ultra Running Magazine On Linked in (Gael Dutigny) On X (@gaeldutigny)

Joel Guy was raised on the North Shore of Kauai. Not only is this area stunning, with an incredibly rich history, but it also happens to produce some of the world's best surf, and surfers. For these reasons and more, it has also become a major tourist destination. Joel tells the story of growing up there, becoming Andy Irons primary filmer, and traveling the world with Andy and a crew of world class surfers, during the peak of Andy's competitive domination. Some of the other names include Bruce Irons, Dustin Barca, Roy Powers and more. Top of the top. While traveling the world and spending time at the best surf destinations on the planet, Joel saw and experienced how other communities manage their challenges; challenges very similar to those impacting his home on Kauai. So, for the last two decades, Joel has been passionately involved in the North Shore community, working to navigate the balance between being one of the most beautiful places on the planet; and the resulting impacts of heavy tourism. Today Joel is the Executive Director of the Hanalei Initiative, which works to improve the community and environment of Hanalei and the North Shore of Kauai.

Dr. Tim Brown is a leading name, and an innovator, in the world of chiropractic sports medicine. With more than 40 years of experience working with and on some of the world's most recognizable athletes, he has built an incredible reputation for his value on the sidelines, in-office and around the world. Tim is the go to for some of the biggest and most recognized athletes and brands out there. You know many of the names. Tim “coaches the coaches” and “mentors the mentors;” and has built an incredible reputation for his knowledge, skill, mastery and his approach to care for world class athletes and us normal folks. And he is both incredibly humble and well spoken. Tim shares his view of health, longevity and sport and tells the story of his path to working with the best of the best.

Erin Tharp is an impressive young woman; and I found her to be cool, smart, well spoken and passionate about her pursuits. From USC undergrad to her masters at UC Irvine, and playing water polo at both universities; she is now pursuing her PHD in marine biology in Florida. Add in a NCAA championship win and becoming a yoga instructor on top of them all; she has accomplished a ton already, at only 24 years old. She is an admitted lover of education, the environment, and making a difference in our oceans. Her passion for coral reefs and shining a light on the challenges we are facing as a planet when it comes to our oceans has resulted in her creation of her non-profit organization, Coralated (www.coralated.org) The opening sentence of Coralated's mission is “to promote the conservation and restoration of coral reefs and ocean ecosystems through innovative research, inclusive collaboration and adaptive management strategies.” I love to see young, smart and passionate advocates for our environment. This is the generation that will be (and really, already is) saddled with the responsibility to solve the world's environmental issues that we have sadly left for them. Having people like Erin Tharp pursuing this makes me very happy, proud and provides confidence for the future of our planet.

Jimelle Carlson is amazing. She is the co-founder and leader of Foundations Cognitive Schools; a physical and online school and a methodology that is focused on helping students and families that are navigating learning challenges. What it provides and how it does so is unlike anything that is currently available in the public school system. Foundations approach is to transform the brain, establishing capabilities that did not exist and, thus, begin to instill newfound confidence, and a love of learning, in the students that attend this incredible school. It is having profound results and is being recognized for its impact. Jimelle's personal path, and her calling, has led her to this role; and her story is incredible. She brings passion and positivity to all she does; and it's both infectious and wildly beneficial to the families and students she serves.

Dan Levine is a long standing industry leader with an incredible backstory that brought him from the East Coast to the West as part of the strategic plan that he created… when he was 11. From his days at The Gap under the iconic Mickey Drexler to REI, Hurley, RVCA, Skullcandy, Stance and other iconic brands in the surf and outdoor markets; he now operates the premier lifeguard outfitter brand, Original Watermen. Dan's passion for business, the ocean and for those that work in and on it, is crystal clear, and how he came to this point in his career (and his life) is an extraordinary story.

Lauren Segal found her calling to help those impacted by social injustice, early on. Since a teen, her passion has been to help those in underserved and heavily impacted communities. I happen to have grown up with Lauren and have watched her along this path; always striving to make a difference on big and challenging issues impacting our world. Today she is the co-founder and Executive Director of GiveABeat.org; a non-profit dedicated to providing music education as a vital tool to end the cycle of mass incarceration in the US. That is a lofty goal. Give A Beat works IN the US prison system to help empower individuals with creative outlets for self expression and personal growth. Their music education programs help to heal individuals and communities affected by incarceration, cultivate creative career opportunities and redirect lives. Lauren's calling is to help others. That is what she does everyday. We need more Laurens.

Sara Schulting-Kranz is the epitome of the goal of Passion Project; to share stories of amazing people doing amazing things. Sara is that. After a life changing traumatic event a dozen years ago, she has made her way back to happiness and success, not through medication but by way of a lot of hard work, extensive learning; and through immersion in nature and adventure. And that too changed her world. Today, Sara is a best selling author, keynote speaker, wilderness guide, life and business coach, podcast host and so much more. Sara shares her life experience and how it has helped countless other people improve theirs.

Danielle Judd is the founder and passionate and creative force behind Farmhouse Rescue - “The farm that grows purpose.” Their mission is very clear: “To Save the Lives of Animals to Restore Purpose and Hope to Humanity.” Danielle's story and all she's accomplished is so impressive but her path to creating Farmhouse Rescue is nothing short of harrowing. As a result of what she was going through, she made a pact with God… and the outcome is the Farmhouse Rescue. The beneficiaries are animals, and humans; the impact and the results are incredible. Danielle and her team, with the support of the community, are making a massive, inspiring impact on those that need and deserve it.

Yoki. Jeff Yokoyama. If you surf, have surfed over the last 45 years, or have ever worn any surf inspired clothing, you're likely aware of Yoki. He's a globally renowned designer, visionary brand builder, innovator, entrepreneur many times over, a forward thinker, a family man, a model, a master of the “California Cool” style, and one of the coolest, most stylish guys you'll meet. All of which is why he was a central figure in Ground Zero of the global surf fashion craze that started in the early 80's; and remains so today. Yoki has been instrumental in many iconic brands including these that he created: Maui and Sons, Pirate Surf, Modern Amusement, Mucho Aloha, Yoki's Garden and Yoki Shop… which is one of the raddest spots you'll visit; and a total reflection of him. It's no surprise that “Yoki” in Japanese means “good” because Yoki is a very, very good guy. We talk about his p

Jay Wild and his wife Anik are world class, accomplished, multisport athletes with a passion for adventure, the outdoors, coaching, and doing really good things. They have used their impressive skills to build an incredible “waterman” community far from, and far above, the ocean on beautiful Lake Tahoe. You may not think of Lake Tahoe as a “waterman” destination… but because of them, it absolutely is. However, it's also way more than that. As accomplished and passionate coaches and members of the community, they have created a powerful resource to help kids, adults and those dealing with physical or mental obstacles to embrace and leverage the power of water. Through human powered water sports, they help people improve health, fitness, wellness and quality of life. Ultimately, they have built a community. Waterman's Landing and their non-profit, Waterman Foundation Tahoe. Their programs along with a coffee shop and their foundation are making a big difference in the lives of people in Lake Tahoe and well beyond.

Jason Lavin is many things; a business founder and CEO, an entrepreneur (even though he refers to himself as a “risk mitigator,”) he is a mentor and coach, a podcast host and studio owner, an author, an acclaimed speaker, a sports aficionado, a non-profit leader, a dad and husband, and so much more. Meanwhile Jason is as humble as they come and he downplays all of these roles and accomplishments while redirecting the accolades to others. But you'll quickly see that Jason is incredibly passionate about everything listed above and he has significant reach and meaningful impact. Jason is one of those guys that you want in your circle. His story is super impressive and he is as gifted a storyteller as you will find… so stick around for the very cool, impressive and inspirational, Jason Lavin.

Molly Kassouf is rad. A proud mom of three, an accomplished ultramarathoner, and a community builder within the trail running world. If you run trails or trail races in Southern California and beyond there's a good chance you know Molly, or have run in an event that she organized. For the last decade Molly has led her Wednesday Night Run Crew (WNRC) and the Whoos In El Morro (WIEM) trail races; and then shifted into the role of Race Director for the John Wayne Foundation Grit Series. Molly is a running community leader who always has a big smile and the goal of bringing people together to do good things for themselves… and for others.

Kai Bartlett is a multiple time world champion outrigger paddler, an elite boat builder, master craftsman and an Adventrepreneur. Kai started paddling late by today's measure and quickly found his way to the very top by way of hard work and passion resulting in numerous World Championship wins; on canoes that he designed and built under his brand, Kai Wa'a. In 2023 Kai was inducted into the Hawaiian Waterman Hall of Fame in recognition for his incredible achievements. Bigger than any challenge on the Kaiwi Channel, for the last three years Kai has been navigating his biggest battle… with Multiple Myeloma. With grit, tenacity and the love and support of his family, and the entire paddling community, Kai is back on the water and yes, he's aiming to get some wins back on the board. Let's go!

Danny Ching is about as impressive as they come. Humble, cool and approachable while being an absolute monster when it comes to training and racing. If you paddle just about any craft you know his name because he is a multiple time world champion in outrigger and in stand up paddling; and many, many more accomplishments at the highest levels. All while inspiring and coaching scores of people, young and old, to be their best. Some of his protégés are now competing alongside him, which was his goal all along. He has done all of this while building a business and putting his family front and center. Danny shows what's possible when you put in the work and have the work ethic, passion, grit and family support to be your absolute best.

Terry Romine is a huge resource for people that beat up their bodies and break themselves down. Like me. As a well known sports chiropractor, Terry works with some of the top athletes and biggest sports brands in the world. While his practice is in Costa Mesa, CA he does extensive on-location work around the world with his athletes. He does this for events like the World Surf League and this thing called the Olympics.Terry is as cool and humble as they come and has made a huge impact on my life and the lives (and bodies) of many others.

Bud Hohl and Billy Whitford have been part of the Outrigger Paddling world since the 60's; and they haven't stopped. Bud is a walking encyclopedia of paddling history, trivia, names, dates and details with a long history of making canoes, paddles and everything else in the sport. These two continue to provide leadership, support, race organization, humor and history. Today they are dedicated to gathering and preserving this history so it lives on. This interview is part of that mission.

John Wadsworth grew up in NYC and found love for both the mountains and the ocean early on. He made his way to Southern California for college… and never looked back. His life has been one of family, adventure, travel, and the ocean. Today, his passion for the ocean manifests itself in many ways, in him and his family. John is an ocean advocate who dedicates his time, energy and resources to protecting our oceans, and cleaning our beaches, as a co-chair of the Surfrider Foundation North Orange County, CA. John talks about his path, his passion to serve and surf, and the cool stuff that he and his family are into… in the ocean and beyond.

Ethan Wayne has done a lot in his life. Growing up with adventure, travel and exposure to the world… and the world of Hollywood. He went on to be a stuntman and actor for decades. Ethan opens up about growing up with a famous father, on sets and boats around the world, racing motorcycles, flying planes and splitting his time between the beach and out in nature. Ethan talks about leading John Wayne Enterprises and operating as a Director at the acclaimed and inspiring John Wayne Cancer Foundation; and all the incredible things being done there in the fight against cancer.

Scott Richards grew up 2,500 miles from the Pacific but fell in love with surfing early. As a kid, he scoured surf magazines from front to back to front again; dreaming of surf… long before he made his big move to Southern California. There he found his wife, art school, surf culture (in full force) and spent the next two decades living his dream; working in some of the most coveted roles for some of the biggest and most influential surf brands in history. Scott shares his story of following his passions, taking big risks, making bold moves and all the incredible mentors, professional experiences and world views that culminated in his dreams truly becoming reality. Today, all of these influences and experiences have converged in Scott's awesome and distinctive brand… “Slightly Choppy.”

Billy Whitford is one of my favorite people; and he does not like to be the focus of attention. =) He'd rather be behind the scenes; developing programs, organizing events, supporting groups, driving boats and trucks, and doing whatever needs to be done… at any hour; and he's done this for decades. His influence has impacted the lives of countless people; far and wide. In this episode, Billy shares his story of growing up in and around the ocean, being influenced by Polynesian culture, scouting, playing sports, influential coaches; and his introduction to outrigger paddling at a super early age. These experiences, and many instrumental people, have ultimately resulted in Billy's ascension to being a major influence in paddling and rowing programs in the US and beyond.

These four women: Alyssa Norwood, Keri Pommerenk, Ericka Primeau and Alice Toth aka the VESL Vixens, for different reasons, decided to take on a very big, bold, and audacious challenge; to individually paddle 30 miles across the ocean as part of the Ben Carlson Foundation's annual fundraising paddle, the Ben Did Go 9.0. And they rocked it, together. However there were two big, key factors: none had ever paddled a prone paddleboard before, and they only gave themselves about 5 months to train. They tell their “whys,” their “how's” and they share the stories created along the way. It's a powerful and fun interview that shines a light on doing hard things, doing it for a purpose, doing it together and realizing that it's never too late to do something epic.

Joe Bark is an absolute legend in the traditional (prone) paddling world and the nicest and most humble guy you will ever meet. He has made the majority of prone paddleboards on the planet and has been racing them for over 40 years. His name is synonymous with the sport of prone paddling. And it's a family affair; all are accomplished water-people, his kids make boards, surf, fish, dive and they paddle, FAST. Joe tells the story of his entry into paddling, his life in the ocean, his family and their paddling exploits, his business - Bark Boards, and everything else you've wanted to know about the accomplished, humble and humorous icon, Joe Bark.

Matt Emerzian is on a mission to change the world by helping us all recognize and embrace the fact that: I Matter, YOU Matter, WE Matter. Matt has dedicated his life and his non-profit, Every Monday Matters, to sharing powerful mantras and tools to help us all find our meaning, live fully… and to change the world! His books and keynotes have been utilized by the largest organizations and school systems across the US; and he has influenced individuals and companies around the world. Matt's message is truly world changing… now we just need to do the work.

Johnny Puakea. Growing up in Hawaii working on historic Hawaiian koa canoes with his father and grandfather, to racing and coaching internationally at the highest levels; Johnny has melded historic Hawaiian canoe culture with modern design and methodology. The result is Johnny's company, Puakea Designs, which produces some of the fastest and most innovative outrigger canoes on the market while he coaches and mentors some of the best paddlers in the world.

Aimee Spector operates at 110% and 100 miles per hour in everything she does and there is no off switch; which I very much appreciate. She has the best laugh but she is also passionately determined to drive herself, and her teammates, to peak performance… which may not always have her teammates laughing. From her career as an educator to running a non-profit fundraiser for over a decade, to running ultramarathons and paddling countless channel crossings, Aimee is all-in on the things that drive her; family, athletic achievements and adventure, service to others, community and way more. Aimee's story is a damn good one that will get you fired up to get after it; whatever “it” is for you.

I've known Bret Marumoto since we were little kids. When most of us were thinking of college, Bret had a vision for taking his passion for making surfboards to the “proving ground” in Hawaii. Twelve days after we graduated high school, he moved to the North Shore of Oahu… and he has never looked back. For the last thirty years, Bret has been making boards for some of the best surfers in the world; who are also some of his closest friends and peers. Bret tells the story of how he took a passion, became a master craftsman, and has become one of the best in the business.

Keoni Watson comes across like your long lost best friend. So happy and positive and approachable; and just the nicest, most humble guy. When you hear the stories of who his mentors were, who his friends are, and where and how he grew up… you quickly start to connect the dots. Then you hear of his accomplishments in the surf and paddling worlds and in the surf industry; all at the very highest levels, and the awe creeps in. Keoni is one of those people. Humble, cool, funny, wicked smart and incredibly accomplished on so many levels. His story is so rad, you will love this guy.

Bill Lobdell prefers to be behind the scenes and to “tell the story, not be the story.” With decades of journalism expertise, a book, and an amazing podcast, Bill is not keen to be on “this side” of the camera. So it was really cool to put a face to the name and to the voice. Bill's podcast “Newport in the Rearview Mirror” is not only a historical account of this famed SoCal town, but provides a central clearing house for the incredible stories of Newport Beach's history and all the characters and events that made it what it is today. And the stories are wild, super interesting and diverse; just like Bill.

From the rivers of Ohio to the southern coast of California, with stops all over the world along the way, Jimmy Terrell has done just about everything that requires a paddle in one's hands. 4 Olympic Games, ultra marathon paddling races, downwind, flat water, you name it. An ultra craftsman and innovator, Jimmy has an engineer's mind and the hands of a master. Paddles and boats, wood and carbon fiber; he makes the very best... and he makes them for the most elite athletes in the world; many of whom he calls close friends. What a legend and the nicest guy you'll meet.

Ben Carlson made his final rescue, in massive surf, on July 6, 2014; just 4 days after his 32nd birthday. Ben's passing galvanized the community where he had made his home for 15 years. Ten years later, his heroic act, and his passing in the line of duty, has left a lasting impression that is evident throughout Newport Beach and well beyond. His father, Chris Carlson and his brother in law, Jake Janz, share their story from start to finish. These are incredible guys and they tell the story of an incredible man; Lifeguard Benjamin Maywood Carlson.

Willie Reichenstein is one of those guys that we all want to grow up to be like. 76 years young and fitter and faster than 98% of the population. He has not stopped, nor even slowed, since his Olympic Games in 1976 and 1980. From Scotland to California, Willie is a family man, a lifelong teacher, a beast of an athlete, an awesome role model, and is amazingly nice, humble, and as cool as a guy you could hope to have in your circle. Willie was high on my list to get in the studio and I'm so grateful for this interview. Whether you know Willie or not, you'll want to hear his stories. So good. Enjoy and thanks ⚡

Don Meek has done a lot of things at a very high level and his stories are captivating and chock full of authentic soundbites, noteworthy quotes, and examples of all manner of success, failure, and the path through it all. Whether it be his fitness mantra of “fit to play,” his long list of executive positions across multiple industries, or how his current roles with the New Earth Project, US Board Riders Clubs, and Fuel TV all interconnect with the goal of community building, storytelling, and environmental awareness and stewardship. Don's viewpoints, passion, and knowledge across all of these spectrums made for a super cool, informative, and compelling interview. Don is rad. Be sure to check this one out for sure.⚡

What started as a passion project by two friends over ten years ago; today this respected, acclaimed, and inclusive non-profit has served over 15,000 at-risk youth, employing over 350, with 10 sites spanning the coastline of Israel. HaGal Sheli was built on the power of surfing, camaraderie, and engagement to help struggling youth get back on the path. They are exceptionally well-known and respected in Israel. As a result, they have received incredible notoriety and support, are award-winning and have been invited to the White House, all through their passion to help kids get back on track. And their success statistics are staggering. Sadly, the demand for their services has jumped exponentially since October 7th. You'll hear from the CEO and Co-Founder, Yaron Waksman, Ephy Shapiro - International Partnerships Manager, and a young stud named Klil Valiano, whose story of escape and the impacts of his experience at the Nova Festival is soul-rattling. They are incredible, and I am honored to have had them in the studio. This is one to listen to for sure.⚡

Clarke Brogger is a passionate, inspirational, and rad human. His is a life of leadership, kindness, faith, and nature. From the pulpit to the surf to the top of mountains to long, long miles on the trails, you'll always find a smile, a positive message, gratitude, and the desire to bring people together. ⚡

Rami and Krista Zur are as nice, humble and cool people as you will ever find. They also happen to be world class athletes (and a coach) at the Olympic level. They have been to 5 Olympic Games collectively as athletes, and more with coaching; and they have THE hardware to prove it. They are wonderful people from very diverse backgrounds and incredible accomplishments. Theirs is an amazing story of dedication, determination, perseverance, passion and love. It's such a rad story.⚡

Say (Sarah) Craig is rad. She is a humble, creative spirit with a passion and determination to make a difference in the world. She likes to do big things; big and hard things, like inspiring and educating people how to lessen their environmental footprint, to move away from single-use plastics, and to clean up our environment. Known as “The Trash Tramp,” she's an ambassador, a leader, an activist, a feminist and a badass long distance outrigger paddler. Say is awesome and doing really good things. You'll dig this one for sure. ⚡

Kali Wilding and Emma McDonald are rad. They are best friends from Hawaii, training together with their eyes on the Olympics. Both are hammer athletes and so much more. These are impressive, fun, inspirational and determined young women who do more in a day than most people do in a month and they do it with awesome headspace and infectious passion. These are great representatives of the US… and of our future.⚡

The awesome mother and son team of Debbie and Forbes provide powerful, fun, and educational insights about Autism in our communities and the role their organization plays in it. Get an impressive firsthand, family experience in navigating autism in the world today and why passionate local organizations like ABSea are so important and make such a difference. And you get a special treat; a peak at “the Forbes Show!” OMG, it's so good! ❤️

Craig Lockwood grew up in the golden age of surfing in Southern California and “in the garage” with icons of the sport like Hobie Alter, Tom Morey, Peanuts Larson and more. An accomplished writer, a published author, a war correspondent, competitive prone paddler, and a friend; Craig's stories of growing up in Laguna, surrounded by legends, are just awesome.

Or… the Kel and Will show. I'm so stoked to have had these two in the studio together. Lifelong friends. Big figures in the outrigger paddling community. Hammer paddlers. A race director. A boat builder. And hosts of one of my favorite podcasts - “Cocktails and Canoes” which has just released their 100th episode. Listen to the backstory, the family histories, and what keeps them passionate and deeply embedded in the outrigger paddling community. So good!

Drasko's passion for public safety and serving the public is crystal clear and has inspired and driven him to focus on educating the public and shining a bright light on the importance and the under-recognized value and responsibilities of ocean lifeguards. The Lifeguard Project has partnered with the Ben Carlson Foundation to widen the reach of this imperative campaign. This is a must listen. Drasko; thank you for your passion and determination to serve.

Where purpose meets impact. Fewelly is an incredibly humble, cool and wildly accomplished leader and athlete, with like 87 certificates and degrees and a passion for leadership, sport and making the world a better place. Find a cooler person... I dare you!

An ageless waterman who has ridden countless waves and paddled thousands of miles (many for a great cause that he founded;) Mike refuses to be affected by cold water, by the hits of 42 stingrays, almost had his fingers eaten by piranhas… and has even been “dropped by a fly.”

Born during WWII to my grandmother who was the youngest of 10 and grew up in an orphanage in London, to 50 years living in Newport Beach. My mom's story is an incredible one; full of family and doing good things.

Raised with little and the man of the family at 17, my dad's years of grinding and of entrepreneurship changed the course for our family and is truly the American Dream.

Spencer grew up in the ocean and has not stopped. An incredible big ocean surfer and paddler and the face of the prone paddling movement in Orange County. Spencer is doing all kinds of good through his passion for the ocean and the Ben Carlson Foundation.

An elementary school teacher and a super nice guy who just happens to be a badass long distance paddler and is passionate about always trying to raise his own bar. Wade is full of goodness and stories.

When confidence is matched with passion, adrenaline, and fun you get Mark Power; who has a list of accomplishments and adventures (and a book about them) that will get your fired up!