Step into “Speaking from Water,” where host Sean Ruttkay engages with aquatic legends – from daring big wave surfers to skilled water photographers and surf lifesaving champions. In each immersive, long-form interview, uncover captivating life stories, unique methodologies, and boundless inspiration. Join us for compelling conversations that explore the depths of their experiences and the thrill of their expertise.
In episode 48 of Speaking From Water, join us as we delve into the life and experiences of Kirvan Baldassari, a world-class photographer with a passion for capturing the beauty of the ocean and its surroundings. Kirvan shares his journey from growing up in the enchanting islands of French Polynesia to becoming a renowned photographer, specializing in surf photography. Kirvan takes us through his early life in Tahiti, highlighting the cultural richness of the island and its influence on his work. He then recounts his time in Los Angeles, where he honed his skills in film photography, eventually becoming the official presidential photographer for the president of Tahiti for five years. With a deep love for surfing and photography, Kirvan has traveled the globe, capturing stunning images from exotic locations such as Thailand, Turkey, Oman, Australia, Nepal, Vietnam, Cambodia, Colombia, and Mexico. He shares his favorite experiences from these travels, painting a vivid picture of the diverse landscapes and waters he has encountered. Kirvan's photography is renowned for its exquisite colors and composition, capturing the essence of each location in a unique and mesmerizing way. Join us as we explore the world through Kirvan's lens and discover the beauty of the ocean and its surroundings like never before.
In this episode of Speaking From Water, we are honored to host Andrea "Tink" Niebel, a remarkable individual whose journey embodies the spirit of resilience, dedication, and service. Join us as we delve into Tink's early life and her discovery of a passion for swimming, the influences that shaped her love for competition, and the pivotal moments that led her to enlist in the United States Marine Corps. Tink shares heartfelt reflections on her time at UNCW, where she excelled both in the pool as a swimmer and outside as a leader and role model. She provides insights into the challenges of balancing the demands of swimming with academic responsibilities and how she found inspiration and support along the way. As a member of the Wrightsville Beach Ocean Rescue Team, Tink's commitment to serving her community and her dedication to excellence are evident. She discusses the demanding nature of her role and the lessons learned from being part of a team that works tirelessly to ensure the safety of others in challenging ocean conditions. Tink's decision to enlist in the USMC and attend TBS (The Basic School) reflects her unwavering commitment to service and her desire to make a difference. She shares her experiences from basic training and the surprising lessons she learned about herself and the Marine Corps. Throughout the episode, Tink's passion for swimming, her deep respect for the ocean, and her profound sense of duty to her country shine through. Her story is one of inspiration and serves as a reminder of the power of perseverance, courage, and selflessness. Join us as we honor Andrea "Tink" Niebel's journey and gain valuable insights into the life of a dedicated athlete, student, and marine on Speaking From Water EP47. #SwimmingPassion
Surf into the essence of surfing with our special guest, legendary surfer Gavin Beschen, in this episode of Speaking From Water. Join us as Gavin takes us on a captivating journey through his life in the waves, sharing intimate details of his early inspirations, memorable moments, and profound connection to the ocean. Gavin begins by recounting his humble beginnings and the pivotal role his parents played in nurturing his passion for surfing. From a young age, he felt drawn to the ocean's allure, and his journey to the North Shore of Hawaii as a teenager only solidified his love for the sport. Listen as Gavin vividly describes the sights, sounds, and smells of his first encounter with the legendary waves of Hawaii, and the transformative experience of catching his first wave in those sacred waters. As we delve deeper into Gavin's career, he opens up about his enduring relationship with Volcom, reflecting on their unwavering support throughout his journey as a freesurfer. He shares poignant stories of his best sessions at Rockies Point, revealing the magic of those unforgettable moments on the waves. Gavin also offers insights into his current favorite surfboard and the water aesthetic that fuels his dreams. But beyond the accolades and achievements, Gavin's true passion for surfing shines through as he discusses what draws him to the sport on a deeper level. Through his words, we gain a profound understanding of the spiritual connection he shares with the ocean and how it has shaped every aspect of his life. Join us as we immerse ourselves in the spirit of surfing with Gavin Beschen, a true icon of the waves, and discover the timeless wisdom and inspiration that can only be found in the rhythm of the ocean.
Join us for an inspiring episode of Speaking From Water as we dive deep into the world of champion paddleboarder Stewart McLachlan. Stewart, a four-time Australian board champion and a four-time Molokai-Oahu champion, shares his remarkable journey from a young enthusiast racing for his local lifesaving club at Red Head Beach to becoming a dominant force in the world of paddleboarding. In this episode, Stewart discusses the early days of his career, where he didn't win a single race but learned invaluable lessons about grit and hard work. He also delves into the unique challenges and rewards of the Molokai-2-Oahu (M2O) race, offering insights into his race day mindset, strategic approach, and the physical and mental preparation required for such a demanding event. Stewart shares his experiences navigating the Kaʻiwi Channel, the importance of pacing and endurance, and the equipment choices that set him up for success. He also reflects on the aesthetic of water, describing his favorite water settings and the feeling of being in 'flow' during a race. Discover the mindset of a champion and gain valuable insights into the world of competitive paddleboarding with Stewart McLachlan on Speaking From Water EP45 - "The Champion Mindset." Key Points: -Stewart's early life and passion for paddleboard racing. -Lifeguarding and ocean rescue experiences in Red Head Beach, NSW, Australia. -Insights into Red Head Beach's topography and significance to Stewart. -The journey to becoming a world champion paddleboarder. -Preparation and strategy for the Molokai-2-Oahu race. -Stewart's favorite water aesthetics and the concept of 'flow' in racing. -The competitive mindset and learning from past races. -Memorable experiences and defining moments in Stewart's career. Tune in to this episode to gain valuable insights from a true champion and explore the world of competitive paddleboarding through Stewart McLachlan's eyes.
Have you ever stopped and tasted the tonal intricacies of the water you drink? In EP 44 of Speaking From Water special guest Milin Patel, a renowned Water Sommelier, will take your water consumption experience to the next level of enlightenment. Join host Sean Ruttkay and Milin as they explore the nuanced art and science of water tasting and the deep aspects of how your water gets to your cup. In EP44, Milin Patel shares his life as a water consultant with Hydro-X Group and as an international water sommelier. With his extensive knowledge, Milin opens up about the diverse profiles of water, discussing its source, history, and the unique cultural narratives surrounding this essential element of life. The episode takes an intriguing turn as Milin introduces listeners to the concept of a water sommelier and the sophisticated world of water tasting. He explains how different temperatures, mineral levels, and environmental factors contribute to the distinct tastes and textures of various water types. From Evian's 15-year vintage artisan spring of the Alps to the exotic rain clouds of the Amazon Rainforest, Milin's expertise offers a new perspective on this everyday substance many in the developed world take for granted. Listeners will also get a glimpse into the luxury water market. Here Milin introduces lessoners to the the world's most exquisite and rare waters. He shares stories behind the waters he has collected, some costing up to £120 per bottle, and discusses the growing trend of water being not just a drink but a conversation starter and an experience. Moreover, Milin passionately talks about the importance of appreciating water beyond its taste. He delves into the critical global issues of clean water access and sanitation, highlighting how his work aims to promote awareness and solutions for these challenges. Tune in to Speaking From Water EP44 for an enlightening conversation that transcends beyond mere hydration. Whether you're a water enthusiast, environmental advocate, or simply curious about the lesser-known facets of water, this episode with Milin Patel is sure to enrich your understanding and appreciation of this vital resource. Subscribe to Speaking From Water for more fascinating discussions and insights into the world of water and its myriad connections to our lives.