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Alessandro Piu 🇮🇹🌊🏄‍♂️ – The Power of Passion, Waves, and Mediterranean Grit - The Temple of Surf - The Podcast

The Temple of Surf Podcast

Release Date: 06/28/2025

Writing Point Break: W. Peter Iliff on Crafting a Surf Legend - Interview with The Temple of Surf - The Podcast show art Writing Point Break: W. Peter Iliff on Crafting a Surf Legend - Interview with The Temple of Surf - The Podcast

The Temple of Surf Podcast

13TH SEASON FINALE!!! In this exclusive episode of The Temple of Surf Podcast, we dive deep into the mind of W. Peter Iliff, the legendary screenwriter who brought one of the most iconic surf films of all time to life : Point Break. Written in the early 1990s and directed by Kathryn Bigelow, Point Break became a cultural phenomenon, blending the adrenaline of big-wave surfing with the raw energy of undercover crime and spiritual brotherhood. Peter shares the incredible story of how Point Break came to be  from his early writing days in Los Angeles to the moment the film caught...

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From Brazil to Basque Country: Johnny Cabianca’s Shaping Journey show art From Brazil to Basque Country: Johnny Cabianca’s Shaping Journey

The Temple of Surf Podcast

Johnny Cabianca – The Shaper Behind the Champions In this new episode of The Temple of Surf Podcast, we sit down with one of the world’s most respected surfboard shapers, Johnny Cabianca, the Brazilian craftsman whose boards have powered some of the greatest surfers on the planet, including Gabriel Medina, multiple-time World Champion. From his early days in Brazil to his current shaping bay in the Basque Country, Johnny shares an extraordinary story of talent, dedication, and a lifelong obsession with performance surfing. In this exclusive interview, Johnny Cabianca opens up about his...

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From Resin to Ride: The Magic of Jeff McCallum - Interview with The Temple of Surf - The Podcast show art From Resin to Ride: The Magic of Jeff McCallum - Interview with The Temple of Surf - The Podcast

The Temple of Surf Podcast

This week on The Temple of Surf Podcast, we welcome one of the most distinctive voices in modern surfboard design, Jeff McCallum. Known for his meticulous craftsmanship, innovative shapes, and instantly recognizable aesthetic, McCallum has become a cult figure among surfboard collectors and riders alike. From his San Diego workshop, he creates what many call rideable art boards that merge performance, creativity, and visual beauty in perfect harmony. In this episode, we dive deep into Jeff’s journey, from his early days learning the craft to developing his own unique design...

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Beneath the Fins: David McGuire on Why Sharks Matter - Interview with The Temple of Surf - The Podcast show art Beneath the Fins: David McGuire on Why Sharks Matter - Interview with The Temple of Surf - The Podcast

The Temple of Surf Podcast

🦈 Protecting Sharks, Protecting the Ocean – A Conversation with David McGuire (Shark Stewards) This week on The Temple of Surf Podcast, we swim into the world of ocean conservation with one of the most passionate defenders of marine life David McGuire, marine biologist, filmmaker, and founder of Shark Stewards. Known to many as “Shark Stewards Dave”, McGuire has dedicated his life to protecting sharks and restoring healthy ocean ecosystems. From the wild waters of California to the coral reefs of the Indo-Pacific, his mission is clear: to save sharks and safeguard the balance of...

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Capturing Surf Culture with Rick Blake - Interview with The Temple of Surf - The Podcast show art Capturing Surf Culture with Rick Blake - Interview with The Temple of Surf - The Podcast

The Temple of Surf Podcast

The Temple of Surf Podcast is back with another inspiring episode, and this week we’re diving into the world of surf art with one of the most intriguing names on the scene today: Rick Blake. Known for his bold strokes, vibrant palettes, and ability to capture the raw energy of waves and surf culture on canvas, Rick has established himself as a unique voice bridging the ocean and artistic expression. Surf art has always been more than decoration, it’s a way to preserve the soul of surfing, to translate fleeting moments into lasting visual stories. Rick Blake’s work does exactly that....

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Damien Marly on Surf Culture, Sustainability & Chipirons Surfboards - Interview with The Temple of Surf - The Podcast show art Damien Marly on Surf Culture, Sustainability & Chipirons Surfboards - Interview with The Temple of Surf - The Podcast

The Temple of Surf Podcast

Welcome to a new episode of The Temple of Surf Podcast! This week we sit down with Damien Marly, surfboard shaper, surfer, and founder of Chipirons Surfboards, a brand born in the heart of Les Landes, France. For Damien, surfing has always been more than a sport, it’s a lifestyle, a connection to nature, and a way of expressing creativity through craft. What started as a personal journey of shaping boards turned into Chipirons Surfboards, a label that has become known in Europe and beyond for its originality, community spirit, and beautifully crafted boards. In this episode, Damien...

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Rory Russell: The Pipeline Prince Tells His Story - Interview with The Temple of Surf - The Podcast show art Rory Russell: The Pipeline Prince Tells His Story - Interview with The Temple of Surf - The Podcast

The Temple of Surf Podcast

Pipeline, Legends & Surf History with Rory Russell This week on The Temple of Surf Podcast we are honored to welcome one of the most iconic figures in surfing’s golden age:  Rory Russell. Known to the world as the “Pipeline Prince,” Rory rose to fame in the 1970s with a fearless style, unmatched charisma, and a deep connection to one of the most dangerous and celebrated waves on the planet. His story is not only about individual triumphs, but also about an era of surfing that shaped the culture as we know it today. Born and raised on the North Shore of Oahu, Rory grew up in the...

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Through the Film Lens: Tatsuo Takei on Surfing’s True Soul - Interview with The Temple of Surf - The Podcast show art Through the Film Lens: Tatsuo Takei on Surfing’s True Soul - Interview with The Temple of Surf - The Podcast

The Temple of Surf Podcast

This week on The Temple of Surf Podcast, we welcome a truly unique voice in surf culture: Japanese surf photographer Tatsuo Takei, whose eye for authenticity has inspired and preserved the soul of surfing for decades. Known for his celebrated book Authentic Wave, Tatsuo has carved his own path as an artist, blending timeless craftsmanship with a deep love for the ocean and the communities that revolve around it. Tatsuo’s story is one of passion, patience, and devotion. Born in Osaka, Japan, he grew up far from the breaks of California and Hawaii, yet the pull of the surf lifestyle was...

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Surfing on Cigarette Butts? | Taylor Lane & The Fight to Save Our Oceans - The Temple of Surf - The Podcast show art Surfing on Cigarette Butts? | Taylor Lane & The Fight to Save Our Oceans - The Temple of Surf - The Podcast

The Temple of Surf Podcast

This week on The Temple of Surf Podcast, we welcome a truly innovative guest: Taylor Lane, the creative mind and environmental advocate best known for building the now legendary Cigarette Surfboard, a surfboard made entirely from discarded cigarette butts collected from beaches and streets. What started as a student project has since become a global statement, sparking awareness about the devastating impact of cigarette waste on our oceans. Cigarette butts are the most littered item on the planet. Trillions of them are discarded every year, and the majority end up leaching toxic chemicals and...

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Beyond Fear: Madison Stewart on Sharks, Surfers, and the Ocean We Share  - The Temple of Surf - The Podcast show art Beyond Fear: Madison Stewart on Sharks, Surfers, and the Ocean We Share - The Temple of Surf - The Podcast

The Temple of Surf Podcast

This week on The Temple of Surf Podcast, we welcome a guest whose life and mission revolve around one of the ocean’s most fascinating yet misunderstood creatures: the shark. Our guest is Madison Stewart, known worldwide as Shark Girl, a fearless advocate, filmmaker, and diver who has spent most of her life swimming with sharks and fighting for their survival. But in this conversation, we explore something very close to the heart of our listeners: the unique, complex, and often misunderstood relationship between sharks and surfers. For decades, sharks have been portrayed as villains in surf...

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The Temple of Surf Podcast – This Week's Guest: Alessandro Piu – Italian Surfing Champion, Waterman, and Global Ambassador of Mediterranean Surf Culture

This week on The Temple of Surf Podcast, we are honored to welcome one of Italy’s finest surfers and a true ambassador of European surfing Alessandro Piu.

Hailing from the sunny shores of Sardinia, Alessandro has carved out a remarkable path in professional surfing, breaking boundaries and making history as one of Italy’s most decorated and recognizable surf athletes. With a fearless approach to the ocean, a deep respect for the environment, and a hunger for powerful waves around the globe, Alessandro embodies the spirit of the modern waterman. From Mediterranean breaks to the hollow reefs of Indonesia, from the rugged coastlines of Ireland to the barrels of Tahiti, he has proven that you don’t need to be born in Hawaii or Australia to be world-class.

Alessandro’s story is one of determination, adaptability, and passion. Growing up in a country where surfing was still a niche sport, he discovered the ocean at a young age and quickly fell in love with the rhythm of the waves. Sardinia’s varied coastline, ranging from wind-swept beach breaks to slabby reefs, became his training ground. With limited resources and exposure compared to surfers in California or Australia, Alessandro pushed himself hard, rising through the ranks with raw talent and tireless dedication.

He quickly caught the attention of the European surf scene, earning titles at both national and international levels. Over the years, he became Italian Champion, represented Italy in ISA World Surfing Games and WSL Qualifying Series events, and participated in prestigious contests. His powerful, expressive style, especially in heavier surf, set him apart. Whether drawing sharp lines on a six-foot point break or charging thick barrels, Alessandro has consistently proven himself as one of the most complete surfers to ever emerge from Italy.

But Alessandro is more than just a competitor, he’s also a true explorer and surf culture storyteller. He has traveled extensively, surfed some of the most remote and challenging waves in the world, and helped shed light on Italy’s unique surf geography. In recent years, he’s taken on a role as an environmental advocate, using his platform to speak out about ocean conservation, pollution, and the preservation of coastal ecosystems. His involvement in sustainable surfboard initiatives and support of grassroots surf communities reflect his deep commitment to the planet and to future generations of surfers.

On social media and in person, Alessandro has become a role model for aspiring surfers across Europe. His down-to-earth character, humility, and passion for wave riding resonate with fans from every background. He regularly collaborates with major surf brands, independent filmmakers, and ocean-focused nonprofits to amplify the message of connection between sport and sustainability.

In this exclusive conversation with The Temple of Surf, Alessandro opens up about his early days surfing in Sardinia, the challenges he faced building a pro career from Italy, and his favorite destinations across the world. We also dive into his mindset during competitions, how he stays motivated during off-seasons, and what it feels like to represent his country on an international stage. Plus, he shares insights on the evolution of the Mediterranean surf scene, the importance of culture in surfing, and the legacy he hopes to leave.

Whether you’re a surfer from the coast of Biarritz, in Hawaii, or someone paddling out for the first time in Italy, Alessandro Piu’s story is an inspiration. His journey proves that passion, grit, and respect for the ocean can take you to incredible places, even when you come from a country without a long-standing surf tradition.

Tune in to this week’s episode of The Temple of Surf Podcast for a raw, insightful, and powerful chat with one of Europe’s top surfing voices. Alessandro Piu reminds us all that the soul of surfing knows no borders and that wherever there are waves and a deep love for the ocean, greatness can be found.