Surf, Business & Brotherhood: Beyond the Barrel

Hey everyone, Austin Dandridge here. I’m back with a special episode of The Marketing Factor today. Listen to it here.

Turning 40 this year was a good reminder to make time for what matters. Between projects, I managed to sneak in surf sessions across some incredible spots - from the Bahamas to Portugal, Nicaragua to Canada, Mexico to New Jersey, and plenty of places in between. Some trips were quick solo missions, others turned into memorable family adventures. The year taught me that you can chase your passions while keeping the wheels turning at work. And on a handful of days, Folly Beach reminded me why surfing at home can be the best of all.

Speaking of balancing passion and work, I recently had the pleasure of sitting down with Ellison and Bryant Thomas in Ellison's waterfront studio, where we recorded a conversation that spans far beyond the waves. The Thomas Brothers are pillars of Charleston's surf culture, running both a successful video production company and the dynamic east coast surf community they've built from the ground up. Through their brand Ninety-Six Wave, they produce compelling content, host community events, design apparel, and run an engaging podcast.

The brothers' authentic passion for surfing runs deep – they've been immersed in the industry since their youth and remain inseparable partners in their creative ventures. As someone who shares a close bond with my own brothers and a love for surfing, connecting with Ellison and Bryant feels natural. Having traveled with them, I've experienced firsthand their infectious positive energy and genuine approach to both business and life.

Our conversation weaves through various territories – from marketing insights to health practices, and the art of maintaining optimism. But at its core, it's about community and passion.

Check out the episode on Spotify and Apple.

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Until next time,

Austin