The Open Water Adventure Sports Podcast

Mick Sutton
  • 0.0 (0)
  • Sports
  • Updated Biweekly

Dive into the world beyond the shoreline. This podcast is all about open water sports and the people who live for them — from scuba diving and surfing to kayaking, sailing, paddleboarding, and everything in between. Each episode features honest, relaxed conversations with people who’ve built their lives around the water, whether they’re professionals, passionate hobbyists, or simply can’t imagine life without the ocean, rivers, or lakes. We explore what draws people to open water, the highs and lows of the lifestyle, the skills it takes to stay safe, and the stories that only come from time spent out there. Expect real experiences, practical insights, and plenty of inspiration for anyone who loves adventure, freedom, and being on (or under) the water. Whether you’re an experienced water person or just starting to explore open water hobbies, this podcast is your place to learn, connect, and feel a little closer to the water — wherever you are.

Episodes

  1. Episode 07 - Paddling to the Edge of the Atlantic with Madlen Anderson

    4d ago

    Episode 07 - Paddling to the Edge of the Atlantic with Madlen Anderson

    What does it take to prepare for a 1,000 km canoe expedition across one of the world’s most remote and unforgiving coastlines? In this episode of the Open Water Adventure Sports Podcast, I sit down with Madlen Anderson, who is about to embark on the Edge of the Atlantic Expedition—an ambitious journey paddling approximately 1,000 km along the rugged Labrador coast. We discuss where the idea for the expedition came from, the months of planning and preparation, building the right team, the physical and mental challenges ahead, and what it takes to live and travel in one of the wildest environments on Earth. Madlen also shares the logistics behind the expedition, the importance of sponsors and supporters, the realities of expedition life, and the lessons she’s learned while preparing for this incredible challenge. This conversation was recorded just before departure, offering a fascinating insight into the excitement, anticipation and uncertainty that comes before stepping into the unknown. If you’ve ever wondered what it takes to turn an ambitious idea into reality, this episode is for you.

    40 min
  2. Episode 06 - Rowing 3000 miles across the Atlantic with Claire Sharp

    Jun 6

    Episode 06 - Rowing 3000 miles across the Atlantic with Claire Sharp

    In this episode of the Open Water Adventure Sports Podcast, I chat with Claire Sharp @coarnish_maid_2026 who is preparing to row 3,000 miles solo across the Atlantic Ocean in December 2026. Claire shares the story behind her ambitious challenge, what inspired her to take on one of the world’s toughest endurance adventures, and how she’s preparing physically and mentally for months alone at sea. We discuss the realities of ocean rowing, the fears and uncertainties that come with such a huge undertaking, and the determination required to commit to a journey that will test every aspect of her character. From training and logistics to fundraising and motivation, this conversation offers a fascinating insight into the preparation behind a modern ocean-rowing expedition. Whether you’re an adventurer, rower, sailor, paddler, or simply someone who enjoys hearing ordinary people attempt extraordinary things, Claire’s story is sure to inspire. Claire is undertaking this expedition for the Motor Neurone Disease charity; www.mndassociation.org You can follow Claire’s journey, learn more about her Atlantic crossing and donate to Claire's go fund me page at www.cornishmaid.com and on Instagram @coarnish_maid_2026 A special thank you to the sponsors supporting Claire’s expedition: • The IOS Store – theiosstore.co.uk • Seaware – seaware.co.uk • Boztrase Recycling – bostrazerecycling.co.uk • A2 Rigging & Covers – a2rigging.co.uk If you enjoy the episode, please consider following, sharing, and leaving a review. It really helps the podcast reach more people interested in adventure and life on the water. #ClaireSharp #AtlanticRowing #OceanRowing #RowingAcrossTheAtlantic #Invictus #AdventurePodcast #OpenWater #AdventureStories #ExpeditionLife #WomenWhoRow #EnduranceAdventure #OceanAdventure #RowingLife #MentalStrength #Resilience #OutdoorAdventure #HumanPowered #PodcastInterview #ExtremeEndurance #LiveAdventurously #OpenWaterAdventureSportsPodcast #owas_podcast #

    1h 29m
  3. Episode 04 - Professional SUP racing with Maddi Leblanc

    May 20

    Episode 04 - Professional SUP racing with Maddi Leblanc

    In this episode, I talk with Canadian professional stand-up paddleboarder and 3 x Canadian National Champion, Maddi Leblanc to explore what it takes to compete at the top level of the sport. Maddi has built a strong reputation on the international SUP racing scene, consistently competing at elite events and earning podium finishes across a range of disciplines. Known for her resilience and versatility, she has raced in everything from flatwater sprints to challenging open-water conditions, establishing herself as one of Canada’s standout athletes in the sport. We dive into how growing up and training in Canada has shaped her as a paddler—from cold-water sessions to some of the toughest environments she’s faced. Maddi shares insights into her training routine, race-day mindset, and the split-second decisions that can make or break a result. We also explore the mental side of racing, her approach to risk versus playing it safe, and how she balances performance with the growing demands of social media in professional sport. To round things off, Maddi talks about the realities of life as a pro athlete and shares some unforgettable moments from her time on the water. Whether you’re a paddler or just curious about high-performance sport, this episode offers a fascinating look inside the world of elite SUP racing. You can follow Maddi on Instagram at @maddi_leblanc If you are interested in coming on the podcast please get in touch via; Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/owas_podcast/# Or email: micksutton@yahoo.co.uk

    52 min
  4. Episode 05 - Big wave surfing with Louis Thomas-Hudson

    May 20

    Episode 05 - Big wave surfing with Louis Thomas-Hudson

    In this episode, I talk with big wave surfer and owner of Tynemouth Surf Company, Louis Thomas-Hudson, for a deep dive into the world of big wave surfing, wipeouts, surf culture, and time spent chasing swells. We talk about Louis’ early journey into surfing, what first pulled him towards big waves, and the moment he caught his first serious wave. From there, the conversation moves into the physical and mental preparation required for huge swell days, the realities of tow-in surfing, rescue planning, and what goes through your mind when a massive set appears on the horizon. Louis also shares stories about some of his heaviest wipeouts, near misses, long hold-downs underwater, and the moments where surfing becomes genuinely dangerous. The episode also explores the UK big wave scene, hidden surf spots and Louis’ thoughts on the biggest waves the UK has to offer. We also get into surf lifestyle and how his friends and family react to the dangers of big wave surfing. Finally, Louis talks about Tynemouth Surf Company itself — from boards, merch, coaching and lessons, Louis has got you covered. If you’re into surfing, adventure sports, outdoor culture, or hearing what it takes to push yourself into extreme environments, this is an episode you won’t want to miss. If you are interested in coming on the podcast please get in touch via; Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/owas_podcast/# Or email: micksutton@yahoo.co.uk

    1 hr
  5. Episode 03 - Stand Up Paddleboard Racing with Annabel Page

    May 20

    Episode 03 - Stand Up Paddleboard Racing with Annabel Page

    In this episode, I’m joined by elite GB / Team England SUP athlete Annabel Page. Annabel was the 2025 British National Champion (Womens SUP) and competes in Technical racing, sprint racing and distance racing. We talk about how she first got into the sport, take a look at the GB SUP scene, and break down what really separates solid competitors from the elite racers at the top of their game. Annabel also shares her perspective on the international racing circuit, the benefits of cross training and we explore how factors like weather conditions, equipment choices, and technical skills can make all the difference on the water. A great listen for anyone interested in SUP, from beginners to seasoned racers. You can follow Annabel on Instagram @annie.supx If you are interested in coming on the podcast please get in touch via; Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/owas_podcast/# Or email: micksutton@yahoo.co.uk

    48 min
  6. Episode 2 - Building British Surfers: Team GB Coaching and Surf Solutions with Joel Gray

    Jan 30

    Episode 2 - Building British Surfers: Team GB Coaching and Surf Solutions with Joel Gray

    In this episode, I’m joined by Joel Gray, a hugely respected figure in the British surfing community and someone who has played a key role in shaping how surfing talent is developed in the UK. Rather than focusing on competitive accolades, Joel’s impact has come through coaching, mentorship, and performance pathways. As Performance Pathways Manager at GB Surfing, the organisation responsible for elite British surfing and Olympic qualification, Joel worked closely with the home nations — including Surfing England and the Scottish Surfing Federation — to design long-term athlete development frameworks that support junior and elite surfers alike. We dive into what it really takes to build sustainable surfing pathways in a country like the UK, from grassroots coaching to elite performance. The conversation also goes beyond surfing. Joel reflects on his time living and working abroad — from riding the slopes in New Zealand to working as a snowboard instructor in Andorra — and how these experiences shaped his coaching style. We explore the crossover between snow sports and surfing, and how movement, mindset, and mentorship translate across environments. This episode is a must-listen for surfers, coaches, parents of junior athletes, and anyone interested in how performance, progression, and passion intersect in open-water and adventure sports. Find and connect with Joel: Instagram: @surf_solutions Website: surfsolutions.tv

    48 min
  7. Episode 1 - Saling around the world on SV Mowzer with Angus Beaumont

    Jan 16

    Episode 1 - Saling around the world on SV Mowzer with Angus Beaumont

    In this episode, I’m joined by Angus Beaumont, who shares the incredible story of sailing around the world with his wife and their two children over the course of four years. Angus takes us behind the scenes of what it really takes to prepare for a long-term family adventure at sea — from planning and mindset to practical logistics and making the decision to actually go. We talk honestly about the challenges that come with life on the water, the things that inevitably go wrong, and how problem-solving, adaptability, and resilience become part of everyday life when you’re far from home. This conversation goes beyond the highlights reel, exploring the realities of raising a family while travelling the world, the lessons learned along the way, and the moments in between that define such a life-changing journey. A must-listen for anyone who dreams of long-term travel, sailing adventures, or taking the leap into an unconventional lifestyle — especially with a family in tow.

    1h 14m
  • 7 Episodes

About

Dive into the world beyond the shoreline. This podcast is all about open water sports and the people who live for them — from scuba diving and surfing to kayaking, sailing, paddleboarding, and everything in between. Each episode features honest, relaxed conversations with people who’ve built their lives around the water, whether they’re professionals, passionate hobbyists, or simply can’t imagine life without the ocean, rivers, or lakes. We explore what draws people to open water, the highs and lows of the lifestyle, the skills it takes to stay safe, and the stories that only come from time spent out there. Expect real experiences, practical insights, and plenty of inspiration for anyone who loves adventure, freedom, and being on (or under) the water. Whether you’re an experienced water person or just starting to explore open water hobbies, this podcast is your place to learn, connect, and feel a little closer to the water — wherever you are.

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