#86 - Shaun Tomson. Surfing World Champion. Author. Speaker. Icon.

Growing up, I had amazing images of Shaun Tomson, surfing in Hawaii, gracing my walls. He also had a place on the walls of most everyone I know, and surely on the walls of anyone that surfed in the 70’s, 80’s and 90’s. Shaun surfed the waves and surfed the way we all dreamed of.  Shaun Tomson is a class act. While becoming a Pipe Master in 1975 and a 1977 World Surfing Champion; and winning 19 professional surf contests over a 20 year pro surfing career; Shaun helped design and define the golden era of professional surfing with an innovative style that inspired generations.  But his story doesn’t stop at world titles and his incredible surfing career… that’s just the first chapter. Shaun has also built successful businesses, become a passionate and celebrated environmental advocate, written bestselling books and an incredible movie; and has emerged as one of the world’s most inspiring keynote speakers.  After experiencing the heartbreaking loss, Shaun found a way to transform unimaginable grief into a powerful message about resilience, purpose, and living with intention. His “Code” has since inspired everyone, internationally, from Fortune 500 executives and elite athletes to students and everyday people looking to live more meaningful and empowered lives. Whether he’s talking story about epic surf sessions, sharing life lessons, inspiring or challenging people to become their best selves, Shaun brings passion, purpose and power to everything he does.  What an incredible opportunity for me to sit down and talk with one of my all-time idols… for way more reasons than just his surfing; but surfing is where it all started and what inspired generations.    0:00 – Introducing Shaun Tomson & the "Pinch Me" Moment 5:00 – Family History: War, Persecution & Escape to South Africa 10:00 – His Father's Shark Attack and a Surfing Family Is Born 17:00 – Finding Flow: Rhythm, Instinct & a New Style 30:00 – Surfing Through Apartheid and Crossing the Color Line 38:00 – His Father's Code: Grace, Sportsmanship & Never Complaining 45:00 – 1976: The Birth of Professional Surfing 63:00 – Losing Matthew and Finishing "The Code" 67:00 – Code 12: Turning the Code Into a Framework for Kids 107:00 – Rebuilding a Values-Driven Brand & Where to Find Him