The Mark Schulein Passion Project

Mark Schulein
  • 5.0 (17)
  • DOCUMENTARY
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

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. 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

  2. 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

  3. JAN 16

    #72 - Chuck Patterson. Multisport Extreme Athlete. Going Big… in Everything

    Chuck Patterson may not be a household name but if you’re into extreme sports that happen in massive surf, big mountains, or howling wind, there’s a very good chance you know exactly who he is. And if you don’t know him… you want to. Chuck is also known for his huge smile and infectious positivity. He possesses the unmistakable energy of someone who’s not only incredibly accomplished, but genuinely stoked to be doing what he loves. He is an all-around rad human. There are very few people on the planet with Chuck’s level of extreme, multi-sport mastery. Who else has earned major brand sponsorships, magazine covers, film roles, and massive accolades across surf, snow, and wind? There are only a handful. Chuck shares the story of how his family helped shape his path, how surrounding himself with the right people opened doors, and how he repeatedly found himself at the right place at the right time—early windsurfing, the emergence of tow-in surfing on the world stage, the beginnings of snowboarding and stand-up paddling, and the early days of foiling. Across every one of these disciplines, Chuck didn’t just participate—he got in early, leaned in with passion and drive, and mastered them at the highest level. And he’s not done yet.

    1h 38m

  4. JAN 2

    #71 - Lauren Kleiman. Public Service. Local Leadership. Lasting Impact.

    Lauren Kleiman is a dedicated public servant and community leader serving the residents of Newport Beach, CA in numerous community and civic roles. She is a member of the City Council and for 2026 she is serving as Mayor. No small feats. This is especially impressive considering that Lauren grew up on Long Island, New York and had no aspirations for “politics.” But she found herself wanting to be an engaged and active member of her community when she and her husband moved to Newport Beach over a decade ago. Today, she is as passionate and committed to her community as they come. Formally trained as a lawyer, her knowledge and tenacity have found fertile ground in public service and have provided a strong foundation for the positions she holds. These same skill sets are the basis for her desire to dig deep and develop a strong understanding of the technical details that are paramount within these roles. Known for her clear views and pragmatic approach to local government, Lauren brings a strong focus to fiscal responsibility, public safety and preserving the unique character of Newport Beach’s neighborhoods and coastline. While Newport Beach is the canvas, Lauren’s path to public service, her why and the challenges associated with public office is what I was most interested in. Regardless of where you live, public service and being an active and engaged member of your community is something that we all need to play a role in; or risk what happens without our engagement. In this conversation, Lauren shares her path to public service, her goals and the challenges of serving, and her perspective on leadership at the local level. It’s a candid look at what it takes to govern a world-class coastal city while staying grounded and representing the needs of the people who call it home. 0:00 – “Introducing Lauren Kleiman & Today’s Conversation” 6:40 – Lauren’s Background & Path Into Public Service 14:10 – Why Local Leadership Matters More Than Ever 22:05 – Community Needs, Listening & Real Representation 30:00 – Challenges Facing Local Government Today 38:15 – Leadership Under Pressure & Tough Decision-Making 46:20 – Balancing Policy, People & Practical Solutions 54:10 – Building Trust & Long-Term Community Impact 1:01:45 – Lessons Learned From Public Service 1:09:30 – Advice for Aspiring Leaders & Civic Engagement 1:17:05 – The Future of Local Leadership 1:25:10 – Final Reflections & Closing Thoughts

    1h 33m

  5. 12/19/2025

    #71 - Branch Lotspeich & the Rescue Tube Foundation. Saving Lives

    Branch Lotspeich is co-founder and Director of the Rescue Tube Foundation, a non-profit based on Kauai, Hawaii, whose mission is to save lives. Is there a more important purpose for an organization? I don’t think so. If you’ve spent time on the Hawaiian islands, there is a good chance that you’ve seen, or been in close proximity to a Rescue Tube. Hopefully you’ve not needed to use one or be saved by one; but that’s what they are there for… and that’s exactly what they do. Hundreds of these “public access rescue devices” are strategically placed on beaches around the islands (and on the mainland) where there are typically no lifeguards. These Rescue Tubes provide a safe and effective way for a family or community member or any Good Samaritan to save lives when professional lifeguards are not present. Countless rescues have been made with these tubes, and dozens of lives have been saved with their assistance; and no rescuers have been hurt in the process while employing a rescue tube on a rescue. Amazing. Branch tells his story and how he was compelled to jump in deep with the Rescue Tubes and ultimately co-found the Foundation many years ago. Incredible safety statistics have driven significant awareness, accolades and recognition; and it is not slowing down. Branch’s legacy and that of the Rescue Tube Foundation will continue to save lives across the Hawaiian Islands and well beyond. Hallelujah.

    1h 59m

  6. 12/09/2025

    #70 - James Merrill. Stoked Plastics & Opolis Optics. Innovation & Inspiration

    James Merrill is the Founder, CEO and the force behind Stoked Plastics and Opolis Optics; and he is an unapologetic optimist about our ability to fix the worldwide plastics problem. James has built these companies that don’t just talk about sustainability… they literally turn plastic waste into high-performance products. From discarded plastic water bottles to premium materials, his work sits at the intersection of sustainability, environmental impact, design, and innovative business. James’ background is not what you might think. He did not grow up in the outdoor, action sports or fashion industries but deep in international assistance work; in some of the most heavily impacted (and most dangerous) regions on the planet. What he saw and experienced firsthand is what has led him to do the work he’s doing today. James isn’t just focused on feeling or acting “green;” he’s obsessed with making an impact. Taking ocean found and ocean bound plastics out of the environment and turning them into materials that can compete at the highest levels of performance, durability and fashion is the future; and James is at the forefront of this technology. James shares his path and how Stoked Plastics and Opolis Optics came to life, what it really takes to turn trash into something people love.

    1h 25m

  7. 11/14/2025

    #69 - Cyril Derreumaux. Athlete. Explorer. Adventurer. Inspiration & 3x World Record Holder

    Cyril Derreumaux is truly one of a kind. There are only a handful of people in the history of the world that have done the things that he has.  Cyril has paddled his kayak (named Valentine) across both the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans, solo and unsupported.  He is the ONLY person in history to paddle both oceans in this way. And for the record, the Pacific took him 91 days and the Atlantic, 71.  Can you imagine?  Before that he kayaked across, he rowed the Pacific with a crew of four guys, also unsupported.  These accomplishments have landed Cyril in the Guinness Book of World Records 3 times. Incredible.  In addition to these feats, he also speaks 6 languages, is a keynote speaker, coach and mentor and is a positive and infectious force for good.  Cyril has done the work and he’s accomplished incredible, unimaginable feats of human perseverance and determination; and his mission is to share what he’s learned, along with the tools and tactics, with the world; to help others reach their full potential and to break limiting beliefs.  He’s been written about in Esquire Magazine, Sports Illustrated, Men’s Journal and many more.  Cyril is truly one of a kind and will leave you inspired and ready to go conquer your next big adventure.

    1h 37m

  8. 10/31/2025

    #68 - Kaleigh Gilchrist. 3x Olympian. 2x Gold Medalist. Pro Surfer & Such a Rad Human

    Kaleigh Gilchrist is as cool and rad and impressive as they come. It’s not just that she is a three time Olympian, or that she has two Olympic water polo gold medals (in her sock drawer) or the NCAA championship ring, or the high school CIF win; or the multitude of other championship wins on the water polo world stage. What if I told you that she’s also a professional surfer with a ton more elite level accomplishments spanning her youth, collegiate and professional career? A two sport monster. Kaleigh has had incredible success based on her passion for both sports and an unbelievable work ethic, attitude, goal setting, having great people in her court… and a lot of grit. Meanwhile she’s had to deal with all the things that go along with the pursuit of excellence and has had to overcome, and come back from a harrowing, life threatening accident. And she absolutely has. Now Kaleigh is starting on the next BIG chapter in her life which was always part of her plan… being a wife and a mom. It’s quite a story… that already has countless rad chapters… and many more ahead.

    1h 36m
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Trailer

5
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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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