EP 215: Dr. Chad Nelsen - Celebrating Surfrider’s 40th anniversary, Life as CEO, Protecting our oceans and tackling coastal erosion, Partnering with WSL and WSL PURE, Living an ‘examined life,’ and the Power of surf activism

Dr. Chad Nelsen, CEO of the Surfrider Foundation, joins us on The
Lineup to discuss his role in protecting the world’s oceans, waves,
and beaches. From Surfrider’s hometown of Laguna Beach, Dr. Nelsen
shares insights on the foundation’s 40th anniversary, their network
of 200+ chapters, and the complex evolution of environmental
activism. We dive into real-world challenges—mangrove deforestation
in Puerto Rico and coastal erosion on Hawaii’s North Shore—and
discuss how the Surfrider Foundation combines legal and scientific
strategies to tackle these issues. Dr. Nelsen also opens up about
his journey, from growing up in a surfing family on Long Island to
his lifelong commitment to ocean conservation. He reflects on the
impact of climate change on coastlines and the need for public
action, urging listeners to get involved in the fight for
sustainable practices. We explore how surfing, though a niche
sport, can drive environmental awareness and political influence. A
key example is the Save Trestles campaign, which successfully
halted plans for a six-lane toll road that would have cut through
San Onofre State Beach, the Donna O'Neill Land Conservancy, sacred
Native American sites, and threatened the San Mateo Creek
Watershed. With partnerships with local communities, WSL and WSL
PURE, as well as ambassadors like Carissa Moore, Dr. Cliff Kapono,
and Greg Long, the Surfrider Foundation strives to inspire both
surfers and non-surfers alike to make a difference. Tune in to
learn more about Dr. Chad Nelsen and how joining a local Surfrider
chapter can empower communities and spark positive change. Learn
more about Surfrider here and follow them here. Join the
conversation by following The Lineup podcast with Dave Prodan on
Instagram and subscribing to our YouTube channel. Get the latest
WSL rankings, news, and event info. Learn more about your ad
choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices