Surf Star to Soul Surfer: John Philbin’s Real-Life Ocean Journey 🌊✨

🎙️ THE TEMPLE OF SURF PODCAST – THIS WEEK’S EPISODE FEATURING JOHN PHILBIN

From Hollywood Classic Roles to Real Waves: The Untold Surf Story of Turtle and Nathanial

This week, we’re beyond stoked to welcome a true icon of surf cinema and authentic wave-rider to The Temple of Surf Podcast — John Philbin.

You might know him as the unforgettable Turtle from North Shore or the intense and unpredictable Nathanial from Point Break, but behind the silver screen, John Philbin is not just an actor, he’s a committed surfer, a passionate teacher, and someone whose life has been deeply shaped by the rhythm of the ocean.

In this in-depth episode, John opens up about the real story behind two of the most beloved surf films of all time, sharing what it was like to bring these characters to life, and how the process of learning to surf for film eventually led him to become a real surfer and part of the surf community for life.

🎬 We talk about:

• How he was cast in North Shore and Point Break

• What it was like training in the water for the role of Turtle

• The cultural legacy of North Shore and why it still resonates with surfers today

• Behind-the-scenes stories with Keanu Reeves, Patrick Swayze, and the original Ex-Presidents

• How those films shaped global surf perception

• Why surfing became more than a role, it became a lifestyle

• His journey into surf coaching, ocean therapy, and staying grounded through surfing

• Reflections on fame, identity, and reconnecting with the sea

Whether you grew up quoting Turtle’s iconic lines or were inspired to pick up a board after watching Bodhi ride one last wave at Bells, this episode will take you deeper into the heart and soul of surf storytelling, both real and fictional.

John’s journey is one of transformation, from actor learning to surf for a role, to surfer choosing the ocean as a path for healing, creativity, and personal evolution. His voice brings both humor and humility, and his stories are rich with that unique intersection of Hollywood energy and authentic surf spirit.

🌊 As always, The Temple of Surf Podcast brings you close to the people who shaped surf culture and those it shaped in return.

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🎧 Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms.
If you love surf movies, surf stories, or just a great conversation about what it means to ride waves — this one’s for you.

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