Nature of Surf Women

Ivana Bajic
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Nature of Surf Women is a multimedia project that centers on the relationship between nature and women, highlighting the ocean's transformative impact on individuals and communities. Encompassing a Coffee Table Book, Photography Prints, and Live Panel Discussions, we are thrilled to unveil our latest venture - Nature of Surf Women Podcast. The inspiration behind launching this podcast emerged from numerous requests to capture live panel discussions. However, due to the complexity of recording live events,  we've chosen to embark on the podcast journey instead.  "Nature of Surf Women - Waves of Women " podcast embarks on an emotional, adventurous, educational, supportive, and honest journey, featuring conversations with creators, scientists, explorers, artists, healers, therapists, moms, and chefs—all deeply connected to the ocean. Our discussions will delve into themes like self-esteem, solidarity, creativity, and sustainable living, aiming not only to improve ourselves but also to harmonize with the world around us. We'll introduce a new topic every month and welcome your suggestions for future episodes. Send us your ideas via DM on our Instagram  @nature_ of_surf women, we'll connect with the right people to join us on the podcast.Hosted by Ivana Bajic, author and producer. To discover more about the project, visit natureofsurfwomen.com.

Episodes

  1. 11/09/2025

    Morgan Filler: Beyond the Finish Line

    In this episode of Waves of Women, we dive into the life of Morgan Filler — an accomplished athlete recognized by the International Marathon Swimming Hall of Fame, and a cool mom who can play any sport. We explore the choices that shape self-love and confidence — the foundation for becoming a strong partner, mother, and community member. Morgan opens up about the challenges she faced in the sports world, the process of navigating her identity after retiring from professional competition, and how her personal dissatisfaction with the limited swimwear options opened the door to a new career as the designer behind See Her Swim. Not only does she fill an important gap in the market by creating durable and fashionable swimsuits for women in their 40s to 60s, but she also focuses strongly on celebrating older women and all body types.  Morgan’s life is a reminder that chasing dreams matters more than chasing trends, and that living fully is more meaningful than posing for the world to see. Her achievements also include some of the most iconic marathon swims in the world :)  • the 28-mile circumnavigation of Manhattan Island  • the 21-mile Catalina Channel crossing  • winning the 16-mile Japan Open Instagram: @seeherswim Website: seeherswim.com   New Month, New Topics! Slide into our DMs on Instagram with your ideas and questions for our upcoming episodes, and we'll connect with experts to bring you the best insights! @nature_of_surfwomen www.natureofsurfwomen.com

    34 min

  2. 09/23/2025

    Nature as Medicine: Dr. Sexton on Women’s Health & Healing

    In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Michelle Sexton—a doctor, scientist, and healer with decades of experience in women’s health and body–mind medicine. Since 2008, she has been guiding patients to fine-tune their Endocannabinoid Systems, and her work since 1993 has focused on empowering women through integrative and functional approaches to wellness. Beyond her clinical work, Dr. Sexton is also a surfer, gardener, musician, grandmother, and lifelong advocate for nature-based living. Together, we dive into her journey as a doula, the healing power of plants, the medical purpose of cannabis, and her insights on menopause and women’s health. This conversation is a reminder of how body, mind, and spirit are all connected—and how nature itself can be one of our greatest healers  Tune in and join us for this inspiring, wisdom-filled episode. Book: https://www.ecsdoctor.com/book https://www.ecsdoctor.com/ New Month, New Topics! Slide into our DMs on Instagram with your ideas and questions for our upcoming episodes, and we'll connect with experts to bring you the best insights! @nature_of_surfwomen www.natureofsurfwomen.com

    29 min

  3. 07/28/2025

    From Stoke to Sisterhood: Surfing with Dana, Mondos Marys

    I’m thrilled to share this inspiring episode with my dear friend Dana  - co-founder of Mondos Marys, a vibrant women’s surf community in Southern California with over 100 surfers riding waves in Ventura, Santa Barbara, and beyond. Dana is a devoted mom, lifelong athlete, and instructional coach who supports third-grade teachers. Her love for water and snow has shaped the most meaningful connections in her life — it’s how she met her husband, and how she continues to find and nurture a powerful community of women through the rhythm of waves. In this episode, we dive into her deep bond with the ocean, her commitment to creating supportive spaces, and how aging shifts our relationship with adventure  from chasing personal thrills to holding space for others, passing on wisdom, and sharing the healing joy of the sea. We also celebrate the story behind Mondos Marys — inspired by Mary Monks, a Ventura local legend and pioneering woman surfer of the 1950s. ✨ Plus, we’re giving you a sneak peek into our upcoming surf & wellness retreat in Costa Rica, happening this December 2025 — a special adventure designed to bring women together in nature, healing, and sisterhood. Instagram  @mondosmarys New Month, New Topics! Slide into our DMs on Instagram with your ideas and questions for our upcoming episodes, and we'll connect with experts to bring you the best insights! @nature_of_surfwomen www.natureofsurfwomen.com

    23 min

  4. 05/16/2025

    The Water Always Knew with PJ Palaunu

    From an early age, PJ felt different. While others looked inward, she looked toward the horizon—drawn to water with a pull she couldn’t explain. Even before she lived near the ocean, she bought her first surfboard, already sensing that movement, nature, and freedom would become her compass. That sense of seeking eventually led her to Costa Rica—a place that felt like home, where she fell in love with the land and with a man. But beneath the beauty, there was heartbreak. After surviving an abusive relationship, PJ made the brave decision to return to the U.S., and with that, she began the long road toward healing. In the years that followed, she kept moving—taking jobs in distant corners of the world, immersing herself in new cultures, expanding her skills, and quietly avoiding the inner conflicts she wasn’t yet ready to face. But with every step, she moved closer to the natural elements that would eventually heal her. Through climbing, river surfing, and ultimately surf therapy, PJ rebuilt her strength and confidence—and in the process, discovered love and her true calling. Today, PJ is a dedicated healer, guiding women through their own journeys using somatic therapy, EMDR, and surf therapy retreats. She’s turned her pain into a path—one grounded in nature, resilience, and deep compassion. Join us as we explore PJ’s extraordinary story of transformation—and how the water always knew the way back to her. PJ Brown  She/her Surf Therapy Facilitator Mental Health Counselor LMT Thai Ashiatsu Bodyworker Website: oneseawellness.com Instagram: @oneseawellness Facebook: Gunnison River Surfistas New Month, New Topics! Slide into our DMs on Instagram with your ideas and questions for our upcoming episodes, and we'll connect with experts to bring you the best insights! @nature_of_surfwomen www.natureofsurfwomen.com

    19 min

  5. 03/07/2025

    Redefining Success & Happiness with Stacy

    Wisdom of women is the best way to guide other women through life. Women have always supported one another by sharing experiences and solutions to everyday challenges, as well as healing the body and mind from deep traumas. The circle of women must exist—it allows us to help and protect each other, reflect on our lives, make better choices, and even find new friendships. In this episode of Waves of Women, I sit down with Stacy Hennessey whom I met on our Nature of Surf Women retreat. Together, we dive into the deep connection between water and self-discovery, explore the true meaning of success, wealth, and beauty, and uncover what truly brings happiness in life. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about embracing the ocean, letting go of societal expectations, and finding fulfillment in the most unexpected places.     New Month, New Topics! Slide into our DMs on Instagram with your ideas and questions for our upcoming episodes, and we'll connect with experts to bring you the best insights! @nature_of_surfwomen www.natureofsurfwomen.com

    7 min

  6. 11/23/2024

    Risa Mara: Sur- Music- Film

    In this episode, we delve into the inspiring journey of Risa Mara Machuca, a multifaceted talent who seamlessly blends her passions for surfing, music, and film. Life hasn’t always been smooth sailing, but Risa’s resilience and ability to adapt have allowed her to make the most of every moment. As a curvy young woman, she faced body shaming but defied expectations to thrive as a competitive surfer. Her creativity and determination led her to design beautifully fitting swimsuits that celebrate curvy bodies. Just as her career began to flourish in California, her father’s illness brought her back to Mexico, where she embraced surfing more deeply. She went on to become the National Longboard Champion and represented Mexico internationally, earning multiple medals. Risa’s bravery and generous spirit shone again when she made the selfless decision to become an organ donor for her mother. Today, she operates SURF IT OUT in Sayulita and Belle Curves Swimwear.  Her dream project, a feature film about a young Mexican girl aspiring to become a professional surfer, is currently in development. Join us as we explore Risa’s remarkable life journey, her dedication to storytelling, and her unwavering commitment to resilience and empowerment. New Month, New Topics! Slide into our DMs on Instagram with your ideas and questions for our upcoming episodes, and we'll connect with experts to bring you the best insights! @nature_of_surfwomen www.natureofsurfwomen.com

    18 min

  7. 09/11/2024

    Waves of Impact with Lucy Small

    Welcome to Waves of Women! I’m excited to have Australian surfer, activist, writer, and producer Lucy Small on today’s episode. In 2021, Lucy made waves when she won a surf competition and called out the organizers for giving her less than half the prize money of the male winner. That bold move sparked a global movement—Equal Pay for Equal Play—driving real change for gender equity in sports. Lucy also co-directed and produced the documentary Yama, which explores surf and skate culture in Ghana, and we’re excited to hear more about her upcoming doc Sejbo.In this episode, we dive into Lucy’s projects, what it’s like to blend activism with surfing and storytelling, and her first barrels! Enjoy the episode! IG @saltwaterpilgrim New Month, New Topics! Slide into our DMs on Instagram with your ideas and questions for our upcoming episodes, and we'll connect with experts to bring you the best insights! @nature_of_surfwomen www.natureofsurfwomen.com

    22 min

  8. 03/27/2024

    Making a business out of passion

    Welcome to today's episode, where we delve into the theme of making a business out of passion. Did you know that 71% of female entrepreneurs start a business based on their passion? Recent statistics reveal that 43% of entrepreneurs worldwide are women,  Drawing from interviews with over 1000 successful female entrepreneurs, we've identified key pillars for running a thriving small business, including customer bonding, eco-friendly practices, good working conditions, creativity, and the importance of connecting with other women for mentorship and resources. In this episode, our focus is on the journey of turning passion into a successful business. Our guest today is Adila Diaz, the owner of a women-only surf retreat based in Nosara, Costa Rica. Adila, a native of the beautiful blue zone of the Peninsula de Nicoya, discovered her love for surfing during high school. Years later, after graduating with a business degree, she decided to combine her passion for surfing with her career and founded "Surf Bikini Retreat," the first all-inclusive women's surf and yoga retreat in Nosara. Through Surf Bikini Retreat, Adila has spent the last 11 years empowering women and changing lives through surfing, yoga, and promoting self-care. She believes in continually incorporating new elements into her retreats to stay creative and keep the passion alive. Join us as we explore Adila's inspiring journey and uncover valuable insights into building a business fueled by passion. New Month, New Topics! Slide into our DMs on Instagram with your ideas and questions for our upcoming episodes, and we'll connect with experts to bring you the best insights! @nature_of_surfwomen www.natureofsurfwomen.com

    11 min

  9. 01/25/2024

    Thriving in Your 40s and 50s: The power of breath and contemporary healing methods

    I wanted to explore aging without barriers, and I'm incredibly grateful that today, I have two of my close friends who are deeply passionate about sustainable wellness and have devoted their professional careers to the healing arts. They will share their transformative journeys with us, and together, we will delve into the power of breath and contemporary healing methods, such as hormonal balance and connection with our local environment.  Hayley Macmillan-Ord  Hayley is a certified sports massage therapist and holds a diploma in Traditional Chinese Medicine and Acupuncture. In 2002, she moved with her family to Costa Rica, to Nosara, where she co-founded International K-12 Montessori school. Today, Hayley is an established Ariel yoga teacher for adults and children. Her latest project is a swimming program for the community, offering free swimming lessons to all public school children.  Hayley actively engages in Wim Hof breathing techniques, follows a plant-based diet, and surfs 3-4 times a week with her two close girlfriends.  Jelena Malenović Jelena fell in love with yoga in her 20s and started teaching after her life-changing transition from a corporate career. Trained and certified in Hatha and hormonal yoga since 2018. Jelena has been studying anatomy and breath-centered yoga under Leslie Kaminoff's Yoga Anatomy school.  Besides teaching yoga, Jelena has joined her love for plant-based food, the practice of ayurveda, embodiment, and yoga in one platform (Oxygen) that produces educational and creative content on these topics. @oxygen.movement @oxygen_food.media New Month, New Topics! Slide into our DMs on Instagram with your ideas and questions for our upcoming episodes, and we'll connect with experts to bring you the best insights! @nature_of_surfwomen www.natureofsurfwomen.com

    36 min

  10. 11/23/2023

    Healing power of the ocean & importance of women's communities

    For our first episode, we're delving deep into the healing power of the ocean and the importance of women's communities in conversation with four incredible women who have successfully turned their passion into their profession. Guests: Natalie Small, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and founder of the Nonprofit Groundswell Community Project Natalie developed the Groundswell Surf Therapy curriculum and programs, combining her expertise in somatic, trauma-informed, eco, and community therapy models.  She believes that our mental and physical health goes hand in hand with the health of the sea and incorporates ocean conservation practices into her therapy approach. Over the last five years, Natalie has trained over 300 community leaders and organizations worldwide in trauma-informed techniques and tools to support safer and braver surf therapy spaces for local communities. @groundswellcommunityproject  Dr. Amelia Rachel Hokuleʻa Borofsky,  Psychologist, founder of Bluemindsurftherapy, and co-founder of Surfing Moms Amelia grew up in the Cook Islands and Hawaiʻi. As an island girl, she felt more at home in the ocean than on land. She works at the intersection of culture, psychology, and modern motherhood in community health centers, hospitals, schools, and private practice. In 2018, she became a solo mom of two under two. She personally experienced the importance of mothering the mother and how connecting to the Mother Ocean helps us all heal. During this time, she helped found Surfing Moms, a nonprofit that helps moms get back in the water after having kids. She also runs surf therapy workshops for moms who would not otherwise access surfing. She advocates for ocean access, democratizing the line-up, and surfing the waves of life. @bluemindsurftherapy Sophie Pyne,  licensed clinical social worker, holistic therapist, and founder of Waves of Recovery Waves of Recovery is a nonprofit dedicated to helping heal addiction and mental health through surfing and the ocean. Sophie has combined her clinical background with the ocean's healing powers to support clients worldwide in experiencing deep and meaningful transformation. She was most recently featured for her nonprofit work on The Kelly Clarkson Show and The Today Show and has inspired audiences as the keynote speaker for Unite for Change and Mental Health for the US and as an inspirational speaker for the Alcoholism Center for Women's 13th Annual Bring Hope Home event and New Directions for Women's Annual Breakfast. She also works with clients one-on-one and in groups to help them rise above addiction and other mental health conditions through ocean healing and therapy. @oceangoddesstherapy Candace Stalder, Artist and co-founder of Surfing Moms Candace has over twenty years of experience as an artist encompassing digital media, visual design, graphic design, film director, writer, cinematographer, editor, arts manager, and more. She is a founding member and current Communications Director at Surfing Moms. She also mentors work-study students in digital media. Her passion lies in powerful storytelling and offering new perspectives on social and mental health issues. Candace is an avid surfer. Growing up in the ocean, she appreciates the ocean's connection to our lives and draws that energy to her passions and creativity. Outside of creating and surfing, she volunteers for various children’s cancer organizations.   @joinsurfingmoms New Month, New Topics! Slide into our DMs on Instagram with your ideas and questions for our upcoming episodes, and we'll connect with experts to bring you the best insights! @nature_of_surfwomen www.natureofsurfwomen.com

    29 min
  • 10 Episodes

About

Nature of Surf Women is a multimedia project that centers on the relationship between nature and women, highlighting the ocean's transformative impact on individuals and communities. Encompassing a Coffee Table Book, Photography Prints, and Live Panel Discussions, we are thrilled to unveil our latest venture - Nature of Surf Women Podcast. The inspiration behind launching this podcast emerged from numerous requests to capture live panel discussions. However, due to the complexity of recording live events,  we've chosen to embark on the podcast journey instead.  "Nature of Surf Women - Waves of Women " podcast embarks on an emotional, adventurous, educational, supportive, and honest journey, featuring conversations with creators, scientists, explorers, artists, healers, therapists, moms, and chefs—all deeply connected to the ocean. Our discussions will delve into themes like self-esteem, solidarity, creativity, and sustainable living, aiming not only to improve ourselves but also to harmonize with the world around us. We'll introduce a new topic every month and welcome your suggestions for future episodes. Send us your ideas via DM on our Instagram  @nature_ of_surf women, we'll connect with the right people to join us on the podcast.Hosted by Ivana Bajic, author and producer. To discover more about the project, visit natureofsurfwomen.com.

Information

  • Creator
    Ivana Bajic
  • Episodes
    10
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2025 Nature of Surf Women
  • Show Website
    Nature of Surf Women