Join us for a lively chat with WSL commentator Rosy Hodge as we dive into the evolution of women’s surfing, celebrate how far the sport has come, and look ahead to its exciting future. We’ll highlight up-and-coming shredders, share insights from the competitive scene, and explore the waves of change shaping the next generation of female surfers. Connect with us at https://surfwithamigas.com/ or @surfwithamigas. Episodes produced and edited by Emma Roggenkamp.

In this episode, SWA co-owners Jackie and Holly share exciting updates about SWA retreats — from new destinations and fresh program elements to the ongoing evolution of their business. They open up about the behind-the-scenes challenges of running retreats while juggling motherhood and entrepreneurial life, reflecting on how these experiences shape their leadership and creativity. The conversation explores their continued commitment to authentic, locally rooted surf adventures and how they’re...

Holly and her sister, Helina, reminisce about favorite moments from epic surf trips and unforgettable retreats while exploring family dynamics and the creation of Helina's business, Wavehuggers, a community-minded, eco-focused surf school. They chat about surf therapy, the ups and downs of running a business, and their hopes for the future, all through the lens of their lifelong love of the ocean, and connection through sisterhood. Connect with us at https://surfwithamigas.com/ or...

Holly and Mando, the owner and surfboard shaper behind Mando Surf Co. based on the Central Coast of California, dive into the craft of shaping boards, exploring how design can better serve women and smaller-bodied surfers. They also chat about alternative surf crafts and the joy of experimenting with new sensations in the water. Their conversation unpacks the often-controversial dynamics of surf etiquette in the lineup, offering candid insights into how the culture of surfing is evolvin...

Holly sits down with Aloe Driscoll—author, surfer, and adventurer extraordinaire—for a wide-ranging conversation that dives into the complexities of family relationships, money and investing, surf culture, and personal transformation. Aloe shares stories from her journey as a novice surfer evolving into a skilled wave rider, including her adventure hitchhiking and surfing through Central America back to Santa Cruz. She discusses the process of writing her memoir, which reflects on...

Holly chats with Meredith, a Santa Cruz native who moved to Pavones, Costa Rica after falling in love with a local surfer—now her husband. Meredith shares what it’s been like to build a life in a remote jungle town, from surfing and raising kids to becoming part of the local community. The conversation takes a dramatic turn with the story of her young son’s venomous snakebite—a traumatic event that tested their faith and brought the power of community into sharp focus. Overall, the episode re...

In this episode, Holly sits down with Katie McConnell to explore the world of bodysurfing and big wave surfing. Katie shares her inspiring journey—from learning to surf as a beginner, to falling in love with bodysurfing, to eventually competing in some of the world’s most powerful waves. They dive into the tight-knit big wave surfing community, the deep connection between surfing and nature, and the role fear plays in pushing boundaries. Katie also reflects on her background in marine biology...

Holly is joined by photographer and author, Kristen, as they dive into the vibrant life of Costa Rica, and explore the challenges and joys of living in a tropical paradise. From surfing adventures and cultural transitions to the complexities of sustainable development, this episode offers a candid look at what it truly means to embrace the Pura Vida lifestyle. You'll hear about Kristen's experience move down to Tamarindo fourteen years ago to work with Robert August, and a bit about her...

In this episode, we spotlight Carve, a pioneering brand in women's outdoor wear. We chat with co-founder, Jennifer, and learn about how Carve has trail blazed the industry with its commitment to creating timeless, sustainable apparel that empowers women to feel confident and stylish in any setting. From the surf to the streets, Carve's designs are crafted to last through every decade, embodying a philosophy that style and sustainability go hand in hand. Join us as Jennifer shares her journey ...

Jo caught her first wave in 1971—and hasn’t stopped surfing since. In this episode, she shares how five decades in the ocean shaped her life, fueled her passions, and led to a recent dream surf retreat with Seea x Surf With Amigas. From early surf days as a women in predominantly male-dominated lineups to finding community in the water, Jo reminds us that it’s never too late to chase waves—or purpose. Connect with us at https://surfwithamigas.com/ or @surfwithamigas. Episodes produced and ed...

Former pro surfer and Costa Rican local Andrea Díaz joins Holly to discuss how tourism and foreign investment are transforming Costa Rica’s coastal communities. Andrea shares her journey from competitive surfing to community advocacy and motherhood, while also highlighting how expats can support sustainable development, respect local culture, and help create conscious and collaborative opportunities for all in Costa Rica. Connect with us at https://surfwithamigas.com/ or @surfwithamigas. Epi...

Holly and Dr. Tara Ruttenberg dive into the complex realities of surf tourism in Costa Rica, with a focus on Pavones—a surf town at the center of recent government-led demolitions and mega development plans. They unpack how gentrification, foreign investment, and tourism impact local livelihoods, drawing from Tara’s research on surf localism and global development. From grassroots organizing to legal battles, this episode explores the power dynamics shaping surf town development and the criti...

In this conversation, Danny Clayton shares how her passion for surfing and desire to connect women in the water led her to create Salt Gypsy. What began with a blog and a pair of surf leggings evolved into a surfwear and surfboard brand centered on empowering female surfers. Danny discusses the challenges of building a business in a male-dominated industry and the importance of community in shaping her journey. She reflects on how Salt Gypsy became a platform for representation, style, and su...

How can you shift your mindset to take empowered steps towards the life you want? In this conversation, amiga and fitness coach, Leka, shares how you can transform your mindset through training and visualization practices. Leka's nature-filled, unconventional upbringing led her to pursue surfing, CrossFit, and holistic wellness and ultimately become a coach. As a former CrossFit weight lifting champion, we chat about her journey to achieving her goals through intentional mindset shifts. We al...

In this unfiltered episode, SWA founders Holly Beck and Jackie George pull back the curtain on all things Surf With Amigas. They dive into the most frequently asked questions from the Amiga community, share some of their wildest behind-the-scenes stories, reflect on how far SWA has come, and offer insight into some of their biggest challenges as female business owners. From retreat magic and unexpected adventures to bold visions for the future, this candid convo is equal parts nostalgic, insp...

Holly and amiga, Nancy, chat about learning to surf later in life, the importance of community and support among women surfers, and the challenges and joys of aging while staying active. Nancy shares her story of learning to surf at 55, finding her tribe of adventurous women through the surfing group Salt Water Divas, and how she's learned to embrace her body as it changes with age. Connect with us at https://surfwithamigas.com/ or @surfwithamigas. Episodes produced and edited by Emma Roggen...

In this conversation, SurfAid rep Montana Denton shares how SurfAid supports remote coastal communities and promotes sustainable surf tourism. She discusses what it means to be a good steward of the places we surf, highlighting the balance between tourism, conservation, and local well-being. We chat about SurfAid’s community-driven programs, from improving health and nutrition to fostering resilience through initiatives like community farming and snail breeding for protein! We also explore Su...

In this conversation, Beany, podcast producer and SWA instructor, shares her experience as an environmental advocate supported by Surf with Amigas. She recently attended the United Nations Plastic Pollution Treaty Negotiations in Busan, South Korea, where delegates from 175 countries sought to find a solution to reducing global plastic pollution. We discuss her experience there and some major takeaways from the event, including the challenges of navigating environmental issues, the bureaucrac...

Would you still surf if you were 39 weeks pregnant? Former SWA Instructor, Hannah, would, and she would do it in a 5/4 wetsuit! In this conversation we explore the intersection of surfing, pregnancy, and motherhood. Holly and Hannah discuss surfing while pregnant, and the impact of motherhood on our personal identity and mental health. Hannah also shares about her life in Humboldt as a small business owner and farmer. This episode is all about building a life that gives you purpose, some real...

In this episode, we dive into one of the most debilitating forms of self-doubt and how to overcome it: imposter syndrome. Around 75% of women say they suffer from imposter syndrome, yet not many of us actually talk about it. Holly and amiga, Kristin, chat about how imposter syndrome can rear its ugly head, both in our professional lives and in surfing. We reflect on how women’s roles have evolved generationally, the impact of societal expectations, and the importance of self-awareness. Kristi...