The Mark Schulein Passion Project

Mark Schulein
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Mark Schulein is a businessman and community leader with a passion for people, philanthropy, and endurance sports. Mark is stoked to know so many talented and diverse people, and is setting out to capture these stories of inspiring people doing awesome things.

  1. 5D AGO

    #80 - Candice Appleby - World Class Paddler + Surfer + Coach

    Candice Appleby is a world champion paddler, accomplished surfer, and deeply committed coach whose life has been shaped by the ocean. With roots in Southern California’s surf mecca, she developed into the most dominant force in women’s stand up paddling, and has spent decades in this space, earning global recognition while continuing to evolve as both an athlete, waterwoman and coach. Her success isn’t built on hype. It’s based on loving the ocean, and spending a lot of time in and on it. Whether competing at the highest levels on the world stage, or surfing and paddling at home, Candice employs the same focus and intention; an approach that has defined her career and her reputation as both a hammer athlete and well respected member of the ocean community around the world. But competition is only part of the story. As a passionate coach, Candice has dedicated herself to developing others, sharing not just technique but mindset, grit and fun. She understands that performance is as much mental as it is physical, and her ability to translate her knowledge and experience into guidance has made her an incredible resource for ocean athletes at all levels. Her passion for helping others find their place in the ocean is crystal clear.  Positive, fun, and driven, Candice Appleby represents an impressive balance of elite performance and grounded perspective, proving that success isn’t just about winning, but about how you show up, day after day, in pursuit of something greater; while bringing others along with you.  0:00 – “Introducing Candice Appleby & Her Journey” 2:40 – Growing Up Around the Ocean & Competition 7:25 – Becoming a World-Class Paddler & Surfer 12:15 – Training at an Elite Level 17:35 – Discipline, Consistency & Longevity 22:50 – Setbacks, Injuries & Mental Toughness 28:10 – Coaching Philosophy & Helping Athletes Grow 33:35 – Balancing Competition, Life & Personal Growth 39:00 – Mindset, Pressure & Performing Under Stress 44:25 – Lessons Learned Through the Water 49:50 – Advice for Aspiring Athletes & Competitors 55:20 – Final Reflections & Closing Thoughts

    1h 33m

  2. MAY 1

    #79 - “Big Tony” Alvarez. Know Your Rootz

    Big Tony. For thirty years, that’s all I had known him as and I’m guessing I’m not alone. Like “The Rock”, Sting, or Bono, he doesn’t need more than one name. “Big Tony” is enough. It carries weight. It means something; and it fits. But behind the name is the man: Tony “Big Tony” Alvarez. And while a lot of people know the name, far fewer know the full story. The truth is, his path is deeper, broader, and more impactful than most would expect; and certainly more than I knew. The accomplishments span decades and the stories behind them are even better. As Tony tells it, he’s lived two thirty-year careers running in parallel. One in the surf world where he held many roles; always grinding,  building brands, at the biggest names, and leaving his mark across the industry and the people. The other path; in personal security, water safety, and training; teaching discipline, awareness, and protection at the highest levels.  Two paths. One mindset: show up, do the work, make a positive impact, leave it better than you found it & live with mana. Today, Big Tony Alvarez leads a life grounded with a commitment to Honor. Courage and Protection.  He’s proof that where you start doesn’t define where you finish. From a kid with very little to a respected and accomplished leader forged by discipline, culture, determination (and fun) in and out of the water. His story is about staying true to who you are, pursuing what drives you, and never bending to expectations that don’t fit. Know Your Rootz. That’s how you build something that lasts. 0:00 – “Introducing Big Tony & Episode Overview” 2:30 – Tony’s Background & Early Life 7:15 – How the Journey Started 12:05 – Key Turning Points & Breakthrough Moments 17:20 – Challenges Faced & Lessons Learned 22:45 – Building Discipline & Staying Consistent 28:10 – Mindset, Pressure & Decision-Making 33:40 – What Separates Winners From Everyone Else 39:05 – Personal Growth & Evolving Perspective 44:30 – Advice for the Next Generation 49:50 – What’s Next & Future Vision 55:15 – Final Thoughts & Closing Takeaways

    1h 41m

  3. APR 17

    #78 - Thom McElroy. Surfer. Entrepreneur, Creative Visionary & Co-Founder of Volcom.

    If you have been involved in surf, skate or snow sports in the last three decades; you’ve been impacted by Thom McElroy.   Thom stands as one of the most influential creative minds to emerge from modern surf culture. Along with Volcom founder Richard Woolcot and co-founder Tucker Hall, he helped redefine what a surf brand could be. And helped shoot it to the moon.   With a background in graphic design and marketing (and his own firm McElroy Communications) Thom was working with other leading surf industry brands while he quietly helped to build Volcom into one of the biggest action sport brands in the world. And… he helped infuse it with an identity that blended surf, skate, snow, music, and art. His work created trends, changed the energy of youth culture and  inspired a generation to think differently about creativity and individuality… in and out of the water.   Thom has always had a clear belief in the importance of culture, following his gut, surrounding himself with great people, mentors and mentoring; while staying committed to surfing every day… still to this day. He championed, and employed athletes, artists, and creatives who embodied originality over conformity, pursued working and playing hard, while helping elevate Volcom and many, many other brands, on the global stage.   For much of the outside world, Thom McElroy may not be a well known name; but if you are in the inner circle of the action sports industries, you absolutely know, or know of Thom.   Today Thom is a prolific mentor, board of director member, community member, prone paddler, family man and a full on surf turkey. It’s an amazing story of working your tail off, loving what you do, and making an impact on those around you… and on some of the biggest brands in the world.   0:00 – “Introducing Thom McElroy & Episode Overview” 2:25 – Thom’s Background & Early Journey 7:10 – Key Turning Points in His Career 12:05 – Challenges Faced & Lessons Learned 17:20 – Building Experience & Developing Skills 22:40 – Mindset, Discipline & Consistency 28:05 – Navigating Pressure & Decision-Making 33:30 – What Separates High Performers 38:55 – Personal Growth & Long-Term Perspective 44:20 – Advice for Those Starting Out 49:45 – What’s Next & Future Vision 55:10 – Final Thoughts & Takeaways

    1h 42m

  4. MAR 27

    #77 - DJ Wilson (O’Brien) Paddling Legend & Life as a Mermaid

    The Mark Schulein Passion Project

    1h 28m

  5. MAR 13

    #76 - Joe Nance & KrakenX.ai - Bringing Artificial Intelligence to Lifeguarding, First Responders & Beyond

    Joe Nance & KrakenX.ai. At only 19 years old, Joe Nance is bringing artificial intelligence to the lifeguard services with the goal of making the ocean safer by giving lifeguards an additional, powerful, tool to add to their arsenal. Joe started lifeguarding at 16 and he is passionate about it and yet… he, like many tech creators before him, wondered “what if?” While he originally created KrakenX.ai as a concept that he thought his department, in Laguna Beach, California, would think was “cool” little did he know the path this concept would take him on. Not only has Laguna adopted his platform, Joe is now engaged with not only other lifeguard and first responder agencies, but other business use cases altogether. The potential is truly limitless. This is a story of a vision, passion, determination and entrepreneurship with the very real potential to make life-saving impacts in lifeguarding and other first responder applications… and way beyond. It also showcases what’s possible when someone has the vision… and the grit to pursue a dream. 0:00 – “Introducing Joe Nance & His Background” 6:35 – Early Influences & How the Journey Started 13:10 – Key Turning Points in His Career 20:05 – Lessons Learned From Early Challenges 27:30 – Developing Skills, Discipline & Consistency 34:15 – Navigating Setbacks & Tough Moments 41:05 – What Separates the Best From the Rest 48:00 – Mindset, Preparation & Daily Habits 55:20 – Advice for the Next Generation 1:02:10 – Balancing Work, Life & Long-Term Goals 1:09:15 – Looking Ahead & Future Plans 1:15:30 – Final Reflections & Closing Thoughts

    1h 19m

  6. FEB 27

    #75 - Scott Muir. A Smile Saved My Life

    Scott Muir is one of the most inspirational and positive people that I’ve been honored to meet. His story is both incredible and so so scary; and through it all he is one of the most upbeat, engaging, and happy people I've met. I got way more out of this interview than Scott has any idea. He thoroughly impacted me and I have very much taken his messages to heart. Scott is a proud husband and parent, a passionate lifelong surfer, an Air Force Academy graduate and D1 soccer player, an Air Force veteran, pilot, is someone that likes to do hard things; and speaks in compelling and inspirational sound bites. He’s truly an embodiment of all the books and podcasts on high performers that I consume. In September 2025, Scott completed a giant goal he had set for himself; paddling the 30 mile prone paddle fundraising event in honor of fallen lifeguard Ben Carlson; the Ben Did Go 10.0. And he crushed it. Two weeks later Scott was surfing with a good friend in solid surf. Because of a split second choice and a smile, they made friends with two young guns out surfing the same spot. That connection saved Scott’s life. Scott tells the story of breaking his neck, being rescued and the recovery journey he is on. This interview is full of chicken skin moments, inspirational storytelling, and an incredible way to look at life. We should all strive to live like Scott.

    1h 35m

  7. FEB 13

    #74 - Leanne Stanley. World Class Paddler, Coach & Plowing Through Obstacles

    Leanne Stanley is a highly respected, Canadian outrigger canoe paddler, coach, and ocean athlete whose impact spans decades in the paddling community. Known for her grit, discipline, and deep love for the water, Leanne has competed at the highest levels of racing, across numerous paddle craft, earning a reputation as both a fierce competitor and someone that can push through significant obstacles. Living, and racing, with Type 1 Diabetes is no small feat and it took many years for Leanne to get a proper diagnosis; which ultimately changed her world… for the better. However, as result of a major car crash, she now navigates living with a traumatic brain injury as well. But she doesn’t let these conditions keep her from her passions of paddling at the highest levels and coaching others. Leanne is highly recognized for her work as a teacher, coach and mentor. She has guided paddlers of all ages and abilities, from beginners to elite athletes chasing podiums; helping them build strength, resilience, and confidence both physically and mentally. Her coaching philosophy blends technical expertise with an emphasis on mindset, camaraderie, tenacity, and fun. Leanne’s connection to paddling runs deeper than competition alone. She is a passionate advocate for the paddling community and lifelong athleticism. Whether she’s leading a training session, coaching from the beach, or lining up at the start line, Leanne brings authenticity, experience, and courage to everything she does. Leanne continues to inspire paddlers of all ages by showing what’s possible through commitment, grit, and the determination to keep going… no matter what obstacles you have in front of you.

    1h 34m

  8. JAN 30

    #73 - Nathan Visagie. In pursuit of (riding) the biggest waves on the planet

    Nathan Visagie is on a mission to ride the biggest waves in the world; and he gave himself a pretty short window of time to get there… while documenting it all and sharing his path with the world. Nathan has created a large following of his quest with a super cool, vibrant and honest depiction of the road to doing something that 99.9% of humanity will never experience. Me included. Nathan is capturing the entirety of his pursuit; from concept through execution and all the highs and lows along the way. He shares the vision, the commitment to training and learning the craft; and capturing it all; the good, the bad and the ugly. Nathan is what I love to see; someone chasing their dreams and doing all the hard work it takes to get there. There is no “easy button” hack here. He shows the physical commitment, the body transformation, the safety preparation and the community he’s engaged in; and captures the determination, challenges and sacrifices it takes to reach his goals… and doing so while navigating a serious heart condition. This adds another layer of risk and complexity. It’s so cool to watch Nathan’s path and his progress… because he has done a ton of work, has committed his life to this pursuit, and he has surfed some of the biggest and heaviest spots on the planet. And, he has had to pay some heavy dues to play in these world class, harrowing conditions. And he shares it all. Nathan’s path is rad and I think you’ll love to hear and watch his story unfold.

    1h 34m
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5
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18 Ratings

About

Mark Schulein is a businessman and community leader with a passion for people, philanthropy, and endurance sports. Mark is stoked to know so many talented and diverse people, and is setting out to capture these stories of inspiring people doing awesome things.

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