In this episode of On Water, I sit down with Glenn Hening, founding father of the Surfrider Foundation, to dive deep into the relaunch of his powerful book, Waves of Warning. Glenn’s narrative is more than a story—it’s an exploration of what happens when cultures collide against the backdrop of the ocean’s unlimited energy. The book, divided into Volumes I and II, creates the perfect stage for asking the big, uncomfortable questions Glenn never shies away from. In this episode, Glenn challenges us to rethink what we believe about wave riding. In discussing Waves of Warning, we explore our awe of the ocean, the corrosive pull of commercialism and competition into the realm of surfing, and the responsibility we hold - as water lovers - to leave a legacy rooted in generosity, community, and care for the playground that gives us so much.

Insightful, provocative, and grounded in raw experience, Glenn Hening isn’t afraid to unsettle anyone who claims to love the ocean while contributing to its cultural or environmental erosion. His perspective will push you to reconsider where—and how—we should draw the line between surfing’s explosive growth and preserving the spirit of sharing waves with respect and intention.

Welcome to this episode of On Water, the official podcast of The Session Magazine. If you like what you hear, please LIKE, SHARE and SUBSCRIBE to this podcast now available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, Audible, Google Play and at www.session-magazine.com . Thank you for listening!

In this powerful episode of On Water, we sit down with Capt. Jon Hoover, a seasoned Search & Rescue (SAR) expert, water safety and risk management specialist and all-around waterman. With a rich history spanning big wave surfing, offshore sailboat racing, distance paddling, and an impressive career in water safety, Jon Hoover is one of the most respected figures in his field.

From teaching Ocean Risk Management to local, state, and federal agencies, including Navy SEALs and first responders, to executing rescue missions in some of the most challenging conditions, Hoover brings unparalleled experience and wisdom to this conversation. We dive into his journey, the harrowing story of rescuing big wave surfer Greg Long, and Hoover’s top tips for surviving and managing risk in any water-related (or other) emergency.

Today, Jon Hoover is an integral part of the Big Wave Risk Assessment Group (aka BWRAG) as a key instructor offering his experience in Emergency Action Planning, risk assessment and implementation of medical aid in places where there is none. This guy is fascinating. You’ll want to settle into this podcast with your full attention to gather some wisdom from Jon Hoover.

Key Topics in this Episode:

Jon Hoover’s Journey into Water Safety
Hoover shares how he developed his calling as an expert in water safety and rescue.

Greg Long’s Rescue: That Near-Fatal Incident at Cortes Bank
The story of Hoover's crucial role in rescuing Greg Long after a near-fatal drowning incident at Cortes Bank, 100 miles off the coast of California.

Water Safety in Extreme Conditions
Jon opens up about his experience with big wave surfers, including his work with world-class athletes like Greg Long and Garrett MacNamara. Hear firsthand stories of dangerous rescues and life-saving missions.

Top 3 Tips for Emergency Preparedness
Hoover shares his expert advice on how to be better prepared in an emergency situation, both on land and in the water.

This episode of On Water is brought to you by Session Magazine, the magazine for water lovers. Please LIKE, SHARE and SUBSCRIBE to our podcast that is now available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, Audible, Google Play and at www.session-magazine.com . We thank you for listening!

Professional free surfer Otto Flores is widely known for his remarkable surfing skills, riding the waves of Puerto Rico and beyond with style and precision. But what truly sets him apart isn’t just his skill on a surfboard; it’s his deep commitment to his community, his thoughtfulness around land development and his passion to protect PR’s marine ecosystems. Through his philanthropic efforts, Otto has proven that being a successful athlete goes far beyond personal accolades—it’s about giving back, mentoring, and working towards the betterment of the world around him.

In this episode of On Water: The Session Magazine podcast, Otto reveals how - for him - surfing has always been about connection: to the ocean, the people, and the land he calls home. As a Puerto Rican native, Otto’s love for the ocean runs deep, and his dedication to preserving it for future generations is his primary goal. From helping to protect Puerto Rico’s fragile coastal ecosystems from ‘unnecessary development’, to developing critical water safety programs like Rincón Water Safety and mentoring the next generation of surfers, Otto is making waves off the water too.

While Otto Flores is celebrated as a talented and accomplished surfer, his impact stretches far beyond the waves. Through his work in water safety, ocean conservation, and youth mentorship, he’s using his platform to inspire change and protect the natural world that has given him so much. Otto reminds us that being a champion isn’t just about personal success; it’s about lifting up others and taking responsibility for the world we all share. Thank you, Otto.

This episode of On Water is brought to you by Session Magazine, the magazine for water lovers. If you enjoy what you hear, please like, share and subscribe to this podcast now available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, Audible, Google Play and at www.session-magazine.com . We thank you for listening!