The Progression Project: Recent Episodes
Erik Antonson
On this episode of the Progression Project, I sit down with Olympic BMX racer and Subi Riders founder Mark Willers (subiriders) Mark's journey took him from representing New Zealand at two Olympic Games to reimagining what foiling could become by combining it with the sport he knows best—BMX. We dive into the highs and lows of chasing an Olympic dream, the mindset required to perform at the highest level, and how that same obsession with progression led him to invent an entirely new way to ride on foil. It's a conversation about creativity, innovation, resilience, and what happens when you stop asking what exists and start building what doesn't.
Greg Drexler from Boardriding Maui joins the show for a deep dive into style, simplicity, and the evolution of wind-powered foiling. We get into Greg’s roots in windsurfing and kiting, the design philosophy behind BRM, the early days of parawings, why the new S3 became the benchmark, and how stripping gear down to its essence can unlock more freedom on the water. This one is a great look inside the mind of a designer who has helped shape kites, wings, and now parawings with a focus on feel, function, and keeping the stoke alive.
In this episode of the Progression Project, I sit down with Guillaume Collin (@gcolin.impact), an adaptive surfer, wing foiler, and engineer from the south of France. After a glider accident in 2015 left him paraplegic, Guillaume shares his journey of recovery, acceptance, and rebuilding his life around what’s still possible. We talk about how surfing and foiling brought him back to flow, freedom, and joy, along with the challenges and creativity behind adapting gear to ride at a high level. This is a conversation about resilience, perspective, and finding a new path forward.
This episode is a deep dive into the current progression of foiling with one of the sport’s most exciting young riders, Mala'e Mcelheny @malae_mcelheny). We talk about how riding has evolved toward speed, flow, and strapless carving, and how downwind foiling is reshaping style across every discipline. The conversation covers everything from race strategy for Molokai to Oahu, gear choices and foil design feel, to wild open-ocean missions in heavy conditions. We also get into how today’s top riders are blending surf, winging, parawing, and downwind into a single skillset, and what that means for the future of the sport. It’s a look at where foiling is right now, where it’s going, and how the next generation is pushing it all forward.
This episode of the Progression Project Podcast features a conversation between host Erik and Kyle of Project Cedrus, exploring the rapid evolution of foil equipment and the engineering behind mast design. They dive into how stiffness, drag, and materials like carbon vs. forged aluminum affect performance, why mast design has become a major frontier in foiling, and how different disciplines—from surf to wing to downwind—drive different engineering solutions. The conversation also introduces a new collaboration between Cedrus Mast and Uni Foil, aimed at making foiling more accessible: riders can purchase gear from either brand and receive a free adapter that makes the systems compatible. Along the way they discuss manufacturing challenges, the economics of running small gear companies, and how innovation and accessibility can help grow the foiling community.
On this episode of the Progression Project, I sit down with Nick Reeser — a rising force in the world of foiling whose background blends Olympic-level sailing lineage, elite water knowledge, and a relentless drive to push limits. Growing up in a family of competitive sailors and now serving as a navigator in the United States Coast Guard, Nick brings a unique perspective on ocean conditions, performance mindset, and technical progression. We dive into his journey from competitive sailing to hydrofoiling, the crossover between sailing and downwind energy reading, and the story behind his massive Florida downwind run — including the preparation, forecasting, and mental game required to send at the highest level. This conversation explores progression, passion, and what happens when deep water experience meets cutting-edge foil performance.
In this episode of the Progression Project, Erik sits down with Alex Aguera, founder of GoFoil and one of the true originators of modern foiling, to put the real beginning of the sport on record. From hand-building the first high-lift foil for Kai Lenny in 2015 to the now-legendary sessions that sparked surf, downwind, and everything that followed, Alex shares the firsthand story behind the viral moment that changed watersports forever. The conversation traces foiling’s Maui roots, the early experiments with Kai, Laird Hamilton, and Dave Kalama, and how curiosity, engineering intuition, and the right environment collided to create an entirely new way of riding waves. Along the way, Alex dives into para-winging, Foil Drive, modern foil design, and what it feels like to watch something you helped invent reshape lives and ocean culture around the world.
In this episode, Erik sits down with returning guest Mike Pedigo for a deep, honest, and often hilarious breakdown of the parawing learning journey. From early failed attempts and full-on frustration to breakthrough moments, gear experimentation, and real-world lessons learned the hard way, this conversation covers what it actually takes to integrate parawinging into a foiling life. They dig into board design, wind requirements, safety realities, ocean versus river dynamics, harness setups, and why para winging has fundamentally changed what’s possible on marginal days—especially on angled coastlines like Florida. Along the way, they share cautionary tales, Hood River epics, training philosophy, and why being willing to “put the white belt back on” is often the key to unlocking the next level.
In this episode of the Progression Project Podcast, Erik Antonson sits down with Lucas Schuler (@foilonly) to tell an inspiring, real-life leap-of-faith story rooted in foiling, family, and purpose. Lucas shares how he walked away from a successful social media company in Germany, moved with his wife and two young kids to the Canary Islands without a clear plan, and ultimately built a new life centered around foiling—now working with Foil Drive, coaching, and chasing big downwind adventures. From 50-kilometer crossings and island life to deeper reflections on flow states, risk, skill acquisition, and trusting your intuition, this conversation goes far beyond gear talk. It’s a powerful reminder of what can happen when you fully commit to what you love—and let the process shape who you become.Hit up Lukas on instagram if you'd like to experience the Canary Islands or are looking for foil drive, wing, parawing or downwind coaching.
Erik sits down with freeride snowboarding legend and Jones Snowboards founder Jeremy Jones (@jeremyjones) to talk about how he’s become fully “foil brained” and why he sees foiling as the ultimate glide. They dive into the humbling beginner phase, flow states, and how foiling delivers big-mountain feelings with far less consequence, from Tahoe lakes to Florida downwinders. Jeremy shares how gear design can teach you, what it’s like watching his kids step into serious backcountry terrain, and how shared board sports deepen family bonds. They also touch on preparing kids for an uncertain, AI-shaped future and why following true passion—whether in the mountains, on foil, or in music—is the best long-term play.
Surf legend Gerry Lopez joins the Progression Project to talk foiling, flow, and the lifelong joy of being a beginner again. We dive into Gerry’s evolution from pioneering Pipeline to SUP, snowboarding, and now full-on foiler—unpacking how gear design serves intention, why smaller boards and foil drive setups changed his approach, and how the best surfing is a meditative state he still taps every session. He shares candid stories with Stacy Peralta, lessons from shaping, what today’s crowded Pipe looks like through his eyes, and the stoke of passing wave-riding on to his son, shaper Alex Lopez. It’s a masterclass in style, humility, and discipline—proof that chasing harmony with moving energy never gets old.
Australian downwind phenom Kai Thompson joins the Progression Project to unpack his breakout 2025 Hawaiian race season—top-five in every event and podiums in the big ones. We dive into the mindset and monster mileage that powered his leap from mid-pack to elite, including back-to-back Maliko missions, 45 km coast runs, and cross-training that would humble most athletes. Kai breaks down reading bumps vs. fitness vs. gear, shares candid lessons from M2M/M2O, and explains why start strategy and consistency win races. We also talk board/foil choices, how the Gator-style downwind boards changed his game, and why the next gear wave will push average speeds past 20 mph. If you love foiling, endurance, and the craft of getting faster, this episode is pure rocket fuel.
In this episode, Erik sits down with Matt (@foil.me.harder) for a deep dive into the state of foiling—four years since their last conversation. They talk candidly about the real costs of chasing progression, the gear that changed everything, and why some classics still hold up today. Matt breaks down how wind actually becomes the bumps we ride, shares practical forecasting tips, and reflects on how downwind has evolved into a true “infinite game.” They also touch on foil-drive, the shifting sponsorship landscape, and an upcoming SoCal race. It’s equal parts stoke, science, and honest perspective on where the sport is headed.
Today I’m joined by one of my favorite guests, waterman and innovator Dave Kalama. We dive into the story behind his new foil board, the Gator, and how it’s changing the game for efficiency and feel. Dave shares his experimental design process, from scale models to real-world testing, and we explore the crossover between creativity, discipline, and performance. We talk racing, the mental side of progression, and even how a little caffeine can give you an edge — all with Dave’s signature wisdom and stoke.
Andrew Gibbons (@long.armed.ape) is one of the top minds and riders in the downwind foiling scene. We talk about the emotional highs and lows of race season, his recent move to Maui, and his new role as an R&D designer at Naish. Andrew opens up about navigating the transition from full-time athlete to industry insider, the tension between performance and flow, and how foiling continues to evolve as both sport and art form. If you’re into design, racing, or just living an unconventional path, this one’s full of wisdom and inspiration. Let’s get into it.
Jack Ho (@jackfromtown) is a professional foil surfer based in Hawaii and one of the first true professional foilers traveling the world and documenting his adventures with F-One. Jack rips on everything—foils, shortboards, longboards, alai’a—if it rides waves, Jack sends it. His YouTube channel is a personal favorite.In this podcast, Jack shares what it’s really like to be a professional waterman, comparing the day-to-day reality to the dream.
Christian Park (@c_foils) is a foiler based in Hawaii. He's had an insane journey in the last 2 years, and foiling might have saved his life in a roundabout way. This is a crazy story of inspiration and hope. Make sure you listen to the end to hear his song, Beautiful Human. It's amazing.
Mike Pedigo is now officially on the UniFoil team and is heading up sales for Uni. He comes back on the show to discuss what he's learned from talking to all the retailers, what feels he's been chasing, his recent van build and van life, and much more. Always great to have Mike in the studio.
Josh Ku's back on the show! Since his last appearance Josh has fully committed to foiling as a profession, taking jobs with both Foil Drive and Code. With his new position he's been traveling the world and has seen the growth of foiling and all its disciplines.
Simeon and Kahi from the Voyager Foil Camps (@voyager_foiler) come back on the show after a year of running camps to share what they've learned from coaching downwind.
Zane Westwood (@zane_westwood) comes back on the show to recap his last year, the Foil Fest event that he's running, how his downwind boards have evolved, and other foil awesomeness.
Dave Galvin (@daveinflux) is a passionate waterman, foil frother, and competitive downwind foil racer. He began his career as a UCI professional cyclist, racing for BMC Racing Team in the U.S. and Europe, and also worked as a mountain guide. Currently, he is a partner at Three Fish Capital, which he co-founded in 2014 to invest in early to growth-stage technology companies. He was previously CEO of UniqueSoft and UncommonX and held multiple roles at IBM focused on M&A, venture investing, and AI strategy. Dave holds an MBA from Kellogg and a dual degrees in Physics and Economics from the University of Virginia.He lives, landlocked, outside Charlottesville, VA with his wife and three children, and spends most of his time dreaming about downwinding...and some time actually downwinding.
Balz Muller (@radiculo) might be the most progressive foiler on the planet. He's also the most stoked and it's infectious. In this episode Balz talks about his new love of the parawing, the rapid progression in wing foiling, how he sees his role in the foiling world and tons more. Enjoy!
Ed Junquet is a foil surfer from New Jersey who has pioneered his coastline. He has competed in downwind races around the world and shares his experiences and knowledge learned along the way. Ed rides for Green Hat surf shop and not a specific brand which allows him to test everything. Even in the heart of winter in NJ they're still sending!
Eric Christensen (@ericfoil) is a foil surfer from Texas, maybe the first. Eric loves all aspects of foiling, prone, downwind, wing and towing, and most of the spots and runs he's doing, he pioneered. This is his 3rd time on the pod and we discuss how the sport is evolving, how surprisingly good Texas can be, how experiencing real fear at 17 while being shot at changed his perspective and more... enjoy.
Cliffy and Erik break down the design and testing process for the Evolution foils that just released. They discuss how the design game has changed in the last two years, what precision is now needed in the prototype process and how UniFoil changed their process to accurately test more refined foils, and the addition of an F1 areo engineer to the team for CFD analysis.
Ziggy Alberts is an Australian musician and lifelong waterman with a love foiling and twin-fins. In this episode we explore the relationship between music and surfing, the feelings foiling and playing huge crowds, tour life, foil board design, foil design evolution and so much more. For those of you who haven't heard Ziggy's music, I've included a personal favorite song, Runaway, right after the intro. Enjoy!ARIA Triple Platinum Certified, independent Australian singer-songwriter, Ziggy Alberts ( @ziggyalberts ) shares his love of nature and the ocean not only through his lyrics but in his pursuit of waves and adventure whenever possible. "Surfing and music are the balance for my life. It keeps me accountable to pursuing my adventures, which keeps me free and it works great because I always end up working on so much music and poetry while on surf trips. Without surfing and without adventure there isn't that raw, rugged nature and physicality which is so part and parcel to my inspiration. WIthout surfing and adventure, it is just empty words because a lot of people identify my music and poetry with a sense of adventure" said Ziggy.
Zeke Lau (@zekelau) is a professional surfer from Hawaii. He's a 2x Sunset Pro champ and won the US Open of Surfing and The Ultimate Surfer. In 2018 Zeke started prone foiling and then this year he's taken on downwind. This is a wide ranging conversation covering the struggles of the dw journey, differences in flow states between surfing and foiling and competition, his approach to learning and why maybe it's not the best way to learn dw by full sending an 8 mile run before really getting the pop up dialed. You guys are going to love this one! Enjoy.
Edo Tanas (@whoedo) is the current world champ in downwind foiling winning both the M2O and M2M this year. This episode is an inside look at what creates a champion, his olympic wind surfing goals, transition to foiling, spending his teen years in Hong Kong, and his move to Hawaii.
Andrew Sayre is a Hood River based foiler who describes himself as jack of all trades, professional at none. From Rhode Island, a sailor, surfer and backcountry skier who made his way to the Gorge via an extended stint in Jackson Hole, he now calls Hood River home. A KT team rider and SUP foiling addict, he logs 200+ days on the water with the local group of riders all pushing the sport forward. On this episode he recounts the story of getting hit with his foil and nearly bleeding out in the gorge. We dive into safety in foiling, and steps we can take to be prepared if something does happen.
Cash Berzolla is an 18-year-old waterman from Maui who is currently leading progression in wing foiling. He's recently released "Cash" a short film showcasing his foiling in South Africa. In this podcast we discuss his early start in surfing, approach to learning and progression, the J-Bay experiment and filming Cash and his new found love of music. Enjoy!
Living legend Dave Kalama returns to discuss his current mindset, how downwind as a sport is progressing, how good ideas can be missed, the evolution of design and his battle to love high aspect foils.
Steve Tobis returns to discuss the race scene in maui and the upcoming M2M and M20, foil design and testing we've been doing with UniFoil, board design trends and training for downwind.
Charles Dasher, also known as Dasher (@dasherfilms), runs a wing foil camp in Bonaire. With a lifelong passion for chasing wind, he has a background in windsurfing and is an early adopter of wing foiling. He is also a videographer.
Josh Waitzkin embodies this podcast's core themes of living a life guided by passion, deliberate practice and the art of learning, in fact, he actually wrote the book on it. Josh is an 8x US Chess Champion 2x, Tai Chi Push Hands World Champion, and a Brazilian Jui Jitzu Black Belt under Marcelo Garcia. He was the first guest on this podcast and is a dear friend and training/thought partner. He rarely does any media and it's an honor to have him on the show. Enjoy!
Albert Matheny (@promix) is the founder of Promix Nutrition and the Soho Strength Lab. He comes on the show to discuss the specific nutrition and training demands for foiling.Albert holds a Master of Science degree in Human Performance, Bachelor of Science degrees in Exercise Physiology and Food Science/Human Nutrition, and is licensed as a Registered Dietitian.Albert was an athlete at the University of Florida, where he competed at the S.E.C. Championships for the Gators in both track and field and cross country. After college, Albert trained and competed professionally under Barb Lindquist, the former world #1 ranked triathlete.Albert co-founded SoHo Strength Lab in New York City , the premier personal training gym in SoHo, winning the Men’s Health Best New Independent Gym. Albert founded Promix Nutrition which has become known for making the World’s Cleanest Supplements and Snacks.
Stacy Peralta (@stacyperalta) is a pioneer in skateboarding but defines himself as a surfer... one who is now foil brained! Stacy recounts his journey from professional athlete, to team manager, how he spotted and nurtured talent like Tony Hawk, why he moved on from stakeboarding into film making, his anti-mentors, and maybe the best definition of flow states I've yet heard. This episode is a personal favorite, and I hope you enjoy it as much as I do!
Armie Armstrong is the founder of Armstrong Foils and has been at the forefront of foil design and innovation from the early days. This is a wide ranging conversation, from the design process changes that lead to the new HA line, to recounting the struggles of getting their first foils to market. Enjoy
Greg is a waterman, engineer and co-founder of Omen Foils. He spent 9 years in the Canadian Military including 4 years in the Special Forces, eventually moving to the coast to pursue his dream of advancing kitesurfing through science and engineering. Greg started working with Ocean Rodeo as the lead on the project which has become known as Aluula Composites.Greg comes on the show to discuss his military background and what he's brought into the foil world, his approach to design and love of riding waves and wind.
Josh Ku comes on to talk about some big changes in his foiling life and his recent dive into foildrive and hybrid foiling. Josh is legend and I couldn't be more stoked for him! No intro on this podcast, but it was recorded a few weeks ago so I hadn't ridden the drive yet when we recorded.
Pedigo and Erik dive into the last 6 months of foiling... Florida's bad winter, surf pro's entry to the game, the Midlength revolution and scary moments in an airplane.
Dominic Hoskyns (@dominichoskyns) is the head of FoilDrive Europe. He's a full-on foil frother who pioneered the ladder start to pump and wake thieving. He's recently taken the leap from being a high school teacher to join FoilDrive. Enjoy.
Simeon (@simboogy) and Kahi (@instakahi) come on the show to announce the Voyager Downwind Camps happening this summer on Oahu and talk all things foiling.
Jason Breen (@jasonthejaw) was hit by a humpback whale while wing foiling in Australia. You've seen the clips, but now hear the whole story, the media frenzy, and what it takes to process an encounter of that magnitude.
Matt Davies (@hazmatt1976) is an Australian waterman laying siege to the world records of big wave and flatwater speed on foil. We discuss what foils do as you get over 35mph, how he tunes his gear, his approach to safety and why he's on this mission.
Oskar Johansson (@oskar_foil) has skyrocketed to the top of the foil world. He holds the record for time on foil in the surf, is a consistent top finisher in downwind races, and one of the best prone and tow. Enjoy!
Balz Müller (@radiculo) is a Swiss waterman who has been at the forefront of wing foiling since its inception. While his impressive riding skills are what initially set him apart, it's his infectious enthusiasm and positive mentality that make him a true standout. In this episode, Balz delves into the creative process behind developing new maneuvers, highlighting the importance of dedication and visualization. With the same unwavering passion, Balz is now exploring the exciting realms of downwind and prone foiling. Enjoy!
Steve Tobis is a Maui-based waterman who's all about downwind racing and pushing the limits of foil surfing. When he's not sending he's building jet skis for heavy water and designing foil-related gear. With a background in mechanical engineering, he brings a precision-focused approach to the world of foiling
Jeremy Wilmotte (@oceanpixels) returns to recount his trips to Hood River and Namotu, where he saved a life, and his recent move to Armstrong Foils. Jeremy sends it as hard as anyone in the sport and is constantly pushing the boundaries of what's possible on foil, especially in heavy surf.
Keith Teboul of KT on his creative process, bringing on Kane DeWilde, the Dragonfly, shaping for some of the world's best, his downwind learning journey and so much more.
Mike Pedigo comes on the show after an insane tow session to recap the last two weeks, Hood River, AWSI, the amazing foil community, foil design, and coming home to the Lee swell. Its been an epic run!
Central Florida frother and anesthesiologist Dr. Rob Novo comes on the podcast to discuss training and staying healthy for foiling. He's also tested tons of gear and goes through what he's currently liking, the solid CFL crew, and then we go deep into flow states from the perspective of his work and turning off the conscious mind in general anesthesia. Enjoy!
Dean Morrison is a legendary Australian surfer who is now frothing on the foil. In this conversation he explains why foiling is important in his surfing life, his journey and personal growth since leaving the tour and the role of mentors like Tom Carroll and Rabbit.
Zane Schweitzer is a Hawaiian Waterman. He excels at all surf sports and has been foiling longer than anyone but the strapped crew. In this episode Zane comes on to preview the upcoming Hawaiian foil race season. We get into gear, strategy, conditions and predictions....
Ryan Arzy (@lafoiler) is a foil obsessed coach from Los Angeles that works on Namotu Island teaching surf, wing, downwind, and tow foiling during the Summer and works with Foiling Magazine to write the Friday Pump Newsletter and as a gear tester. He comes on the show to share how he approaches sharing/introducing this sport with others and how this community has done so much to help him develop as a rider and coach.
Alex Hayes (@alexhayes) is an adventure sports athlete. He is going to be leading the charge in foil surfing pushing bigger and heavier surf. When he's not foiling he's jumping out of planes or off clips, sending over the ledge on some of the worlds heaviest waves or traveling the world. He's a breath of positivity on social media where he has over 400K followers on the gram.
Zane Westwood makes his 3rd appearance on the show and dives deep on all things foil. His new approach to shimming for downwind and prone, what he thinks Adam and I have wrong about plate shims, massive downwind sends, and the new lift line of foils.
Lewis Samuels, now foilbrained, is a surf journalist known for creating Surfline's Power Rankings and the PostSurf blog. Lewis shares his thoughts on surf culture, social media's influence on the sport, what he loves about foiling, and reflects on his career in surf journalism.
Cliffy comes back on the show to discuss the process of designing and testing the Progression Foils. The foil was a conceived on the podcast last year, so we thought it would be fun to recap the trials and tribulations of what it takes to produce a foil.
Noah Flegel and Austin Tovey are both multi-sport watermen with extensive accolades in their areas of focus. They are close friends, were college roommates, and are currently leading the charge in progressive foil surfing both in the ocean and on the wake. This show provides a glimpse into their passion and competition that is driving our sport forward.
Daniela Moroz might have more time on foil than any other podcast guest. She is the 6x Formula Kite World Champion, 4x US Rolex Yachtswoman of the Year, a member of USA SailGP Team and an avid surf, tow and wing foiler. Daniela comes on the show to discuss her 2024 campaign for the Paris Olympics, her comfort with speed on foil, training regimen and much more...
Laird Hamilton is a world renowned waterman. He is a pioneer in big wave surfing, sup surfing, and foil surfing. In this episode he chronicles the early days of foiling, discusses training and flow states, risk assessment, staying true to his North Star and why his goal is to be the Old Wizard.
Sebastian Junger is the #1 New York Times Bestselling author of THE PERFECT STORM, FIRE, A DEATH IN BELMONT, WAR, TRIBE and FREEDOM. As an award-winning journalist, a contributing editor to Vanity Fair and a special correspondent at ABC News. His documentary Restrepo was nominated for an Academy Award and won the Grand Prize at Sundance.
The Legend Dave Kalama returns to discuss innovation and creativity through the lens of designing the Barracuda. His work on the Cuda has changed our perception of what's possible in downwind and nonbreaking wave foiling.
Joel Pilgrim (@joelpilgrim) comes on the show to tell the story of how his foil saved a life. Joel is the founder of Waves of Wellness. WOW is a health charity pioneering surf therapy intervention for mental health, and breaking down the stigma and barriers to accessing traditional therapeutic support. This conversation gets a bit deeper than a normal foiling podcast with themes of mental heath, social media, and flow states.
Gabriella Bella is a foiler based in maui who has a kiting and competitive swimming background. She currently rides for GoFoil and placed second at the last Foil Competition on maui. Gabby is top-tier in prone, wing and downwind. Follow her @gabriella_da_bella on instagram
Josh Ku is an Australian waterman best known in the surf world for charging some of the heaviest slabs in Oz. He's taken on foiling and is quickly becoming one of the best prone and downwind foilers. In the podcast Josh talks about going from foil-curious, to closet-foiler, to full blown Foilbrained. Why it's best to dive in head first in downwind. The risk and fear of riding massive surf. Why foiling is so addictive. And what's different about foiling in different oceans and energies.
Mike Raper is the head of North Foils and Kites and has an extensive, 30-year history in board sports. On the show he gives insights into the evolutionary parallels in kite surfing and foiling, and shares his passion for water sports and design.
Nate comes back on the show to froth on the foil scene on Maui, his full-time role at Signature, designing and testing foils, his favorite foil spots, and tons more all the foil-brained folks out there will love.
Tom Carroll is a2x World Surf Champion and lifelong waterman. He is currently frothing on the foil. He comes back on the show for a soulful conversation about his journey, his draw to flow and mediation, how foiling fits into his watertime and tons more... Enjoy a conversation with one of the legends in our sport.
Erik Christensen (@EricFoil) comes on to discuss his journey into downwind, the struggles and successes, the differences in learning DW compared to winging, the epic trips and amazing friends he's gained through foiling and what makes the foiling community so incredible.
Mike Pedigo (@flyline_productions) joins Erik for a deep dive into tuning your foil and how their tunings have changed over the last few years and to announce Portal Flight Designs! Enjoy
Jeremy Wilmotte (@oceanpixels) was born in Belgium and now calls Sydney, Australia home for himself and family. He began foiling roughly 4 years ago and has never looked back. He states "every single foiling division is so much fun no matter how many obstacles get thrown at me to return to the normal path of the standard citizen. Recently I have started to venture into bigger hollower waves similar to my previous obsession as a grumpy old retired surfer."
Zane Westwood is one of the best surf foilers on the planet. In this episode we discuss his move to Lift, the tuning differences between Lift and GoFoil, his downwind froth, surf lines he's working on, James Casey's world record and tons more...
Kawika (@childrenofthefreeworld) can't be summed up in a short bio, and I wouldn't attempt to, but I will say he's the most soulful guy I've had on the show and I've given a lot of thought to our conversation. In foiling, he's an Oahu ripper who's sending prone and downwind at the highest level. You're going to love getting to know Kawika.
This is actually a Casey Catchup podcast, where Erik was interviewed by James Casey. We thought it would be a epic dual release. Give James a follow if you don't already for epic content on all things foil, and check out his online downwind coaching!
Jeremy Riggs (@paddlewithriggs)goes deep on his downwind journey and techniques he's using to voyage the seas.
Jeremy Riggs was born on April 2nd, 1972 in Wilmington North Carolina. Growing up he always enjoyed going to the beach and riding waves. Riggs had always dreamed of riding waves in Hawaii. In 1997, at the age of 25, he had the opportunity to move to Maui, Hawaii and booked a one-way ticket to paradise. When Riggs moved to Maui he got a job in the marble and granite industry. During his time off he would explore the beaches on Maui to find new ways to ride waves. In the year 2000 Riggs bought his first prone paddleboard and was introduced to downwind paddling by some of his peers. Since then, Riggs has enjoyed downwind paddling on the North shore of Maui using standup paddle boards, outrigger canoes, surfskis, and is currently enjoying downwind runs on his foil board. He started coaching paddlers in the different disciplines of downwind in 2009 and still offers his services today. Riggs has been happily married for 21 years and has 2 daughters ages 11 and 13.
Brodie Sutherland (@brodiesutherland) is the lead designer for Cabrinha foils. His new HS series, designed with Keahi de Aboitiz are currently making waves in the foiling world.
Rob Pririe (@rob.vonpiros)comes back on the show to tell fill us in on his last year in foiling. Gear he's been testing and loving, his froth on the wing, trying to get barreled and what projects he's been doing in his chop shop.
Everything Mike and I have learned about runners over the last year in one episode with a cameo from Damo. How to find seams, what gear is best, conditions.... Enjoy
Clifford Coetzer (@unifoil) is the designer for UniFoil. He was the first designer to make a high aspect and a dihedral foil, the hyper and vortex. Both designed 4 years ago and still good by today's standards. His latest foil, the Vyper, designed with Adam Bennetts, is setting a new bar on the surf side of foiling. He comes back on the show to discuss how his thoughts on design have changed, performance vs. stiffness, where he finds inspiration and a special announcement about a new collaboration!!!!!
Paul Cooper is leading the charge in strapped foiling and strap design. He comes back on the show to fill us in on his last year of progression and how he's built a business around his passion.
Simeon Ke-Paloma The Birth of Prone Downwind in Hawaii and Foil Safety by Erik Antonson
Kyle Lobisser (@projectcedrus) is the man behind the first hollow carbon mast. He's an engineer who started his career working for Boeing and Apple and has applied his knowledge and skills on designing and constructing the foiling mast built from aerospace carbon.
Hawaiian Waterman Jack Ho (@jackfromtown)comes back on the show to fill us in on his last year of foiling, surfing, racing, Lift Foils evolution, how racing is changing the sport, style and much more... Jack is one of the young guns leading the evolution in foiling.
Kahi (@instakahi) is a waterman from Oahu, HI. He's also on a mission to save and bring awareness to the state of our oceans with his role at Parley.tv. We talk the vibe difference between surf and foil, crowds, downwind, what it takes to make the A-team, his love of Takuma, and a possible big reveal???
Jim Bones, Bones (@jimbones808) is a lifelong waterman. This is a must listen episode as Bones' positivity, gratitude and outlook on life is something we should all aspire to. Huge thanks to Sky Rama (@sky.rama) for setting it up and taking part in the conversation. Cover art by Sky.
Adam Bennetts (@misterbennetts)spent the last year working with Cliffy from UniFoil to design the New Vyper foil. He comes on the show to discuss the process, what he's learned lately, how his stance has evolved, other foils he's been testing and much more...
Mateo Ell (@Mateo_Ell) is a pro foiler from Kauai. He's crushing it in every discipline and came on the show while in Jax Beach on route to the Foil Racing League where he won the SUP division and got 2nd in prone. This follows his win a few months back in Hood River. Mateo shares an insane downwind story, talks style, pumping tips, what foils he's riding, skill mapping, why he's loving kiting and Brian adds lots of color having spent years flying with Mateo in Kauai.
Knowing what we know now about foiling, how would Mike and I start foiling now. We talk first flights, boat, jetski and efoil, catching your first waves, benefits of SUP and prone, how to start pumping, what gear to ride and how to dial it in. If you're learning to foil or have a friend who is, this is the podcast for them...
Kane DeWilde (@kdmaui) returns to discuss what he's learned about foils in the last year, we discuss his secret foil surfing turn technique, how to tune foils, what commonalities he's finding in what we all like to ride and tons of listener questions.
Austin Tovey (@austintovey) is a world class waterman excelling in foil, kite, wake and wing. He threw the first tantrum in the surf and first raley behind the boat on foil. He is consistently landing 360 airs frontside and backside and goes huge on everything! Austin comes on to talk about the progression in foil airs, his incredible relationship with his dad/tow partner/foiler who is also as frothy as he is, how he sees skill-mapping, and what makes Jax Beach epic for a waterman. Plus tons more...
Chris Rasman is a professional freeride and competitive snowboarder now on the Natural Selection Tour. He's been foil brained in the offseason for the last few years and is taking his boardsports talent to surf and wing foiling. On the podcast we dive into how he's approaching learning foiling, how he's had to switch his mindset from freeride to competition, style, social media's influence on sports and athletes and skill mapping.
Justin Bruns is a sponsored foiler, winger and high-level kiter. His instagram is equal parts water sports and space technology. We cover foiling, climate change, nuclear power and lots of foiling.
Paul Burnett (@thelostboysfoilclub) is the spiritual leader of the infamous Lost Boys Foil Club. A fan favorite of the podcast, in this episode we talk about PB's journey back to the water, why Tom's ski is out of commission, and what he learned from the couch stalking us on instagram while he was laid up and much, much more... Does anyone even read these? Let me know ;)
Julia Mancuso (@juliamancuso) is a 4x Olympic medalist with a Gold Metal in giant slalom and Silver in downhill and combined. She hosts the Just Be Yourself podcast. Dylan Fish (@dylandafish)is a manager on Tavarua and rips on everything. Julia and Dylan are a couple that charges and foils together. Enjoy...
Dave Kalama (@davekalama) goes deep on what drives his creativity, what he correctly and incorrectly predicted in foiling, where he sees the sport headed, how is mindset is changing with age and tons of other nuggets...
Mike Pedigo is back. Mike is arguably the best foiler in Florida, maybe the east coast. He makes his own foils and rips on everything. If you haven't heard his other episodes go check them out.
Matt Costa is a foiler and mathematician who has a hobby of studying wave fundamentals. He comes on the show to educate us on how waves are formed, what makes epic downwind conditions and a ton of stuff you thought you understood but really didn't (at least I didn't...). He supports helmets and boog-foiling.
James Casey (@james__casey) comes back on the podcast for the 4th time to teach us how to downwind, announce his new downwind online course with private coaching by him, and we discuss what's up with baseplate shimming, setting up your foil, how folks starting now have it easy and tons more...
Egan Inoue is a 2x Racketball World Champion, a 2x Brazilian Jiu Jitsu World Champion and now a Foil Brained Frother like the rest of us.
Cole Kawana has a degree in Mechanical Engineering from USC and did his thesis on hydrofoils. He learned to foil listening to the podcast and is now a guest on the show (he wrote that last part) talking pumping, down winding, and the physics of foiling. He is the founder of the Clean Water Ambassadors Foundation and Japanese American Stories, which produces Holographic AI oral histories of American interment camps.
Zane Westwood is a 26-year-old waterman from Sydney, Australia who has always enjoyed alternative watercraft - finless surfing, bodysurfing... He discovered the foil about a year ago and hasn't looked back.
Ben Ferney is a Hydrofoil Big Air Record Holder (64 frames), who is now surf, wing and river foiling. He has an extensive background in testing and helping in the design of hydrofoils. He is a father, husband and a school district superintendent.
Kjell van Sice / @kjellissey is the contributing editor of Foiling Magazine, a graduate studies professor, and a sustainability-driven designer.
Rob Pirie in an OG foiler, started gaffer taping foils on SUP boards 4 years ago. Favorite quote from the episode is to be the best foiler in the world you have to ride the best gear. He tests everything and reports on Seabreeze forums where he's helping everyone get better and make good decisions. We dive into tons of gear talk, progression and other stuff only foilers would appreciate. But if you're foil brained, you're gonna love this one.
Zane Schweitzer comes back on the podcast to discuss his Jaws adventures, winging in on 50ft surf, and all things foil. Enjoy
James is back on the show to discuss insane downwinders, huge turns, gear and his last few months.
Laitham Kellum has been surf foiling since before the Kai video that grabbed the surf world. He's ridden tons of gear and is pushing the limits in strapped tow foiling and surf foiling. He's a career Firefighter/Paramedic with specialties in technical rescue and water safety.
The Foilwizard himself is on the podcast. We talk style, technique, pumping, straps, airs, and why you should get back on your shortboard. Plus tons of your questions. Enjoy!
Pedigo returns. We talk board construction, new tails, Go Foil NL series, and dedicate a solid chunk of the show to some of my most asked insta questions... What board should I start on? What foil should I buy? How should I start foiling? And so much more...
Jack Ho talks Instagram influence on the sport, Lift 170, Takuma 1300, down winding, strapped game, pumping...
In the 4th return of Kane we talk his new NP line of foils, custom tails he's building, what he's learned since his last episode, and lots of user questions. The Professor does not disappoint. Gonna listen a couple times myself to process it all....
Dylan Wichmann is a 23 year-old South African foiler who is at the top of the strapped air game and winging. Discussion includes strapped air game, dock starts, high aspect foil pumping, breaching wing tips, skateboard similarities and judging for foil contests. Enjoy.
Mike Pedigo is a Florida based waterman. He's insanely talented in the water and in the shaping room.
Annie Reickert (@Annie__Starr) is an 18-year-old Maui based waterwomen excelling at foiling, surfing, wing foiling and big wave surfing. She surfs on the Big Wave World Tour and on the SUP World Tour. Annie is currently on of the best foilers on the planet in the surf, down winding and winging.
Eric Goodman is the founder of Foundation Training, a core training philosophy. I challenge all of you to do a 30 day challenge with his work and see how your posture and surfing change! He's helped me tremendously over the last decade and I can't recommend his work highly enough.
Paul Cooper comes on the show to break down strapped foil surfing. He has a unique frame of riding waves being an ex-pro bodyboarder. If you're looking to ride strapped this is a must listen.
Fernando Novaes (@mizoferanado) is a top tier foil surfer from Brazil. This is Fernando's second appearance on the podcast, worth giving the first a listen to hear Fernando's backstory.
Eric Christensen (@ericfoil) is everything I love about our foil world. He lives in Texas, makes his own equipment, froths on mushburgers and tanker waves, travels for contests and hosts the worlds best in the world's worst surf spot and they're stoked. Foiling is insane and Eric's passion showcases our love of the sport.
Tom Carroll is a 2x World Surf Champion and 3x Pipeline Master and now foil frother. Follow Tom @thomasvictorcarroll on instagram.
Paul Burnett, PB, of Lost Boys Foil Club is back on the show to recount some classic adventures and answering some important questions... How many skis can you break in a day? What does it feel like to get hit by a ski while foiling? And more... Enjoy folks!
Sky Rama (@sky.rama) is a foil surfer based in Maui. He's a top-tier foil surfer and shapes Sky Rama Customs. He's 6.3 at 195 lbs, rides really small boards, 4ft range, and predominately Armstrong and MFC foils.
John Amundson is a leading surf and foil board shaper based in Hawaii. Some of the best foilers in the world ride Amundon boards, FoilWizard and JackfromTown being two. John drops mad knowledge on us about shapes and construction. Check out his shapes at amundsonfoil.com
Adrian Roper is an owner and founder of Axis Foils, a leading company in the foiling and kiting space. This is a deep, technical conversation about design and production.
Kane comes back on the show to get specific on tail shimming, why dihedral wings surf the best, what he loves about multiple foils, his latest endeavors and designs and a whole lot more. This one is packed with info...
Adam Bennetts (@misterbennetts) comes back on the podcast to talk high aspect vs. surf wings, tail chops for different foils, his take on the future progression of the sport, style and technique and a whole bunch of other goodness!
PB is a founding member of the Lost Boys Foil Club. He's a former world tour surfer with expertise in coaching. And he's got the best stories.
Nathan van Vuuren is a professional water athlete from South Africa (grew up on Maui) who is one of the best foilers on the planet and Signature's top rider. He's credited with evolving the pump to where it is today. Look him up on youtube to see him connect 50 waves, which might be the world record???
Jason Tangalin is known as @Foil_Fever on insta. He and his nephew @its_me_pono are the guys behind the foiling contest series. Huge episode to understand the progression in foiling in the pocket and getting comfortable smashing whitewash. Enjoy!
Eric Christensen is an early foil adopter from Texas who is constantly exploring the limits through his designs and testing. Give him a follow @ericfoil
Jack Ho (@jackfromtown) is a foiler from Oahu, HI. He's a state longboard champ and comes on to discuss the crossover in lines and style from longboarding to foiling, straps/no straps debate, and his approach to learning. Enjoy Foil Freaks!
Glennel Jordan is a foiler from Oahu, she recently won the first foiling contest on Kauai in October and is a regular bigger wave tow foiler. Give her a follow @ocean_baby on Insta.
Dave Kalama, @davekalama, is a world-famous waterman, an innovator of foil surfing and SUP surfing, a member of the Strapped Crew (early big wave chargers) and is now leading the world in foil surfing. This podcast is a deep dive into foiling techniques and gear.
Dave Kalama, @davekalama, is a world-famous waterman, an innovator of foil surfing and SUP surfing, a member of the Strapped Crew (early big wave chargers) and is now leading the world in foil surfing.
Adam Bennetts is possibly the most progressive foiler surfer, bringing shortboard surfing style and maneuvers into foiling. Learn why he likes his boards a touch longer, which wings he's freaking out on now and why he loves foiling.
James Casey's 3rd trip through the podcast. He breaks down some extensive testing on the GoFoil, Takuma and Axis foils, recounts a PB Lost Boys story and what it was like foiling big Ulu. Enjoy Foilbrained Friends!
Kane de Wilde returns for a super technical conversation about foil pumping, tail wing design, fuselage length, high aspect wings and so much more...
Style-Master Keahi de Aboitiz talks foiling and flow. Keahi is a World Champ Kite Surfer, a World Tour SUP Surfer, Wave of the Winter Nominee on Shortboard and now he's leading the charge and showing us what's possible on foil. I learned a ton talking to Keahi and you will too...
Tyler Conroy is a big wave surfing based in San Fransisco. He regularly surfs Mavericks and has recently taken on foiling. He comes on the show to discuss the mental states of flow in both sports.
Pio Marasco is the owner of the Maui Fin Company (MFC)which, in partnership with The Hydrofoil Company, produces the Hydros Foil.
Brian from FoilTheWorld comes back on the show to discuss the upcoming Foil Camp, chopping tails, testing foils and pros/cons of straps.
Robert Stehlik is the owner of Blue Planet Hawaii and the host of their youtube channel. He's an addicted waterman and has built a career around his passions. Robert explains the foil addiction, swing wings and we even get into some flow state discussion. Enjoy!
Jeffrey Spencer is a professional waterman who is currently leading the pack in downwind, surf and wing foiling. He rides for Slingshot. Follow on instagram @jeffrey_spencer
Fernando Novaes(@MizoFernando) is a Brazilian surfer is leading the sport of foiling in performance.
Chris Rasman (@chrisrasman), from Whistler, BC, is a professional snowboarder and a co-founder of Manboys Productions (@themanboys). Watch "Chris Rasman Full Part" on youtube to get an idea of what Chris is doing on the mountain.
This podcast is the first in a series diving into flow states. Please send your thoughts on flow and questions you'd like asked of future guests to @the.progression.project on instagram.
Paul is an ex-world tour surfer, on tour in 1985, a surf coach and Math teacher in Australia. He's the founder of the Lost Boys Foil Club which includes 2-time podcast guest James Casey and Tom Carroll. We talk extensively about towing, foils for speed and transitioning to prone. Enjoy...
Billy is the head of Marketing for F-One in the states. He's also an insane kite surfer and foil surfer. He comes on to talk foiling from a kiting background and the new Swing Wing hand kite and all things foil...
Kane de Wilde can be found on Instagram at KDMaui and if you want to see some inspirational foiling check out "Even the Dog Can't Believe his Eyes" on youtube.
Follow Brian on insta @foiltheworld and support the cause on https://foil-the-world.myshopify.com/
Rob Pirie first surf foiled by taping a kite foil to the bottom of a SUP. That's OG. He shares his journey and knowledge on the show and discusses the NP line a foils.
Australian Waterman James Casey returns to the podcast to continue the foiling discussion.
Photo credit: @moontours
On a recent foil and surf trip to Costa Rica Erik Antonson, Chase Kosterlitz, Fisher Grant and Damo sat down to discuss the foil surfing learning process from their differing views.
What's foil surfing all about and why is it taking the surf world by storm? James Casey, Australian waterman, comes on to discuss why foiling is so addictive and gives insights as to the best way to start, prone, SUP and tow differences, and how it opens up surf spots and changes conditions.
William Branum is a recently retired US Navy Seal with 26 years in service. William was deployed 10 times, 4 to Iraq and 3 to Afghanistan. His last years in service were in HQ where he built teams to solve operational deficiencies by creating partnerships with industry, academia, and strategic funding organizations. Since retiring, William has started a consulting firm to help companies solve problems, create strategies, and bring a different perspective to their organization.
Mick Slattery is the owner and designer/shaper for SureFire Surfboards from Australia. He joins Erik to discuss the design process, and technical specs/ideas for paddle surfing.
Anders Ericsson is the author of Peak and the world's leading expert on what it takes to become truly great at something. He's studied masters in different fields and has discovered the common practices that separate the best from the rest. Our conversation covers deliberate practice, mental representations, the skills that our kids should be learning, and why we grow to love things as were becoming better.
Garrett Dutton, G Love, is a blues and hip-hop musician who has maintained a 25 year career in the music business. He joins Erik to discuss his creative process, how he cultivates flow and state before shows and his relationship to practice and pursuit of quality 25 years into being his career.
Josh Waitzkin is the Author of The Art of Learning. He coaches the world's best in the financial and sport's worlds and has excelled to a world class level in Chess (8x National Chess Champion), Tai Chi Push Hands (2x World Champion), and Brazilian Jui Jitzu (Black Belt under Marcelo Garcia).
He is now passionately pursuing the art of Paddle Surfing. Our conversation covers Josh's passion and learning process.