The mission of The Surfing Historian Podcast, and surfinghistorian.com more broadly, is simple: to provide an avenue for scholars to share their research with the world; to be a resource for those wishing to learn more about surfing history and culture; and to connect people to the surf-related organizations doing positive things for people and the planet.

The idea originated during the COVID-19 quarantine and has evolved ever since. The impetus behind launching this podcast was an effort by Dr. Jason Old to formalize his online interviews with his history colleagues to allow them to share their research with the world. It also served as an incredible resource for his college history students. As a result, the idea for the “surfing historian” was born. The concept then evolved into a resource/database for surfers (and non-surfers) searching for relevant information regarding our nascent academic field—critical surf studies.

As a surfer and academic, Jason’s vision for the podcast and surfinghistorian.com is to contribute more to our beautiful planet than just being another surfer in the lineup. Thus, the overarching goal of the website and podcast seeks to bring together colleagues from all around the world who are also engaged in meaningful research, nonprofit initiatives, and who strive to make the world a better place. In short, this website is as much about them as it is about Jason and his research