Andrew "Andy Mac" McKinnon: From Surf Rebel to Conservation Crusader
Tappa sits down with surfing legend Andrew “Andy Mac” McKinnon. From his first wave at Mermaid Beach to mixing it with the best on the world stage, Andy takes us on a wild ride through the golden era of Aussie surfing. Hear about the board evolution arms race, life-changing sessions in Hawaii, behind-the-scenes chaos at the 1972 World Championships, and his long-time rivalry (and friendship) with the great Michael Peterson.But it doesn’t stop at the shoreline—Andy shares jaw-dropping travel tales (including a three-piece suit con job to get home), how he fell into radio, and the accidental birth of a cult vegetarian café. He also opens up about his lifelong mission to protect the ocean, and how he literally helped move a freeway to save the land he loves.A must-listen for surf nerds, environmental warriors, and anyone who’s ever paddled out with a dream.
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1:19:14
Ziggy Mackenzie: From Bali Breaks to World Champion Bravery
Tappa sits down with Ziggy Aloha Mackenzie — the under-16 ISA World Champion — to chat about her rise through the ranks of junior surfing and the wild ride that’s gotten her there. From growing up in Bali and overcoming a fear of the ocean, to navigating international comps and heavy waves in El Salvador, Ziggy opens up about the moments that shaped her into the athlete she is today.They dive into her experience in the alternative Koo-ee education program, the culture shocks of global surf travel, and the pressure of competing on the world stage. This episode is all about grit, growth, and the new wave of women’s surfing — and Ziggy’s leading the charge.
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1:01:58
Live From Flotsam Festival: Behind the Lens and Into the Lineup
In our very first live recording of Tappa’s Green Room, captured at the iconic Flotsam Festival. Tappa sit's down with surf photographer Simon “Swilly” Williams, filmmaker Shannon Hayes, and surfer Annie De Santos for a deep dive into the creative heart of surf culture.From the challenges of capturing that perfect wave to the unspoken bond between surfer and shooter, this episode explores the art, trust, and hustle behind every iconic surf image and film. The crew shares personal stories, creative insights, and the gritty realities of documenting surfing in wild, unpredictable conditions. They also talk about the evolving role of technology, the pressures surfers feel under the lens, and what it means to chase waves purely for the love of it.Whether you're in it for the surf, the shots, or the stories—this live episode brings all the heart, humour, and raw energy of Flotsam Festival straight to your ears.
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49:43
Russell Specht: Saltwater in His Veins
Tappa sits down with Russell Specht, a proud North Stradbroke Island local who’s spent a lifetime chasing waves and living the island life. From growing up in a surf-obsessed family to balancing carpentry with competition surfing, Russell shares stories from Straddie’s golden days — and its gnarlier ones too, including close encounters in sharky Indonesian waters. He reflects on the changing face of the island, the rise of local surf talent, and the deep cultural roots that shape his community. At the heart of it all? Respect — for the ocean, the elders, and the next generation. This one’s salty, raw, and full of heart.
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55:00
Phil Myers: Shaping the Past, Carving the Future
Tappa sits down with legendary surfboard shaper Phil Myers, tracing his journey from surfing the local breaks to becoming one of Australia’s most respected craftsmen in the shaping bay.Phil shares stories from the golden age of surfing in the ‘60s and ‘70s, reflects on the game-changing invention of the thruster, and pays tribute to influences like George Greenough. From his worst-ever board experiment to the boards that come alive the more you pump them, Phil gives a masterclass in design innovation and the balance between art and science in shaping.You’ll also hear about the rise of 10-channel boards, the renaissance of the single fin, and the evolution of waves, culture, and craftsmanship. Whether you geek out on hydrodynamics or just love a good surf yarn, this episode is a celebration of surfing’s soul, history, and future.
Your backstage pass to the world of surfing, hosted by MC and commentator Terry “Tappa” Teece. From pro surfers and legends of the sport to shapers, innovators and anyone with an epic story and a love for the ocean—The Green Room dives deep. Expect tales of epic wins, brutal wipeouts, and behind-the-scenes moments from life in and out of the water. Whether you’re chasing waves or just some inspiration, this podcast will leave you stoked to paddle out.
New Zealand