Nelly's Magic Moments Podcast

By: David Nelson & Brian Upton
  • Summary

  • Dave “Nelly” Nelson is a globally published veteran surf and skate photographer with countless magazine covers and spreads to his name. After spending years as a senior photographer at TransWorld Surf Magazine, Dave now shoots freelance for domestic and international publications.

    Major action sports brands such as Vans, O’Neill, Fox, and Reef commonly contract Dave to shoot on location for trips locally and abroad.

    As one of the best action water photographers in the world, he is usually in the right place at the right time to produce “the goods”. Dave’s relationships and mutual respect with some of the most elite athletes in the world give him access to the best action at the best spots.

    Dave’s dedication to the sports of surfing and skateboarding is matched by his values as a person. A true family man, Dave cares about is daughter and wife as much as he cares for his community of Santa Cruz. A consummate role model for young athletes coming out of his hometown, Dave has helped pave the way for some of the best young talent in Nor Cal.

    © 2025 Nelly's Magic Moments Podcast
    Show more Show less
Episodes
  • Episode 7: Alo Slebir
    Jan 14 2025

    Get ready for an electrifying ride as we sit down with legendary big-wave surfer Alo Slebir, known for fearlessly charging the monstrous waves at Mavericks. In this episode, Alo opens up about the impact of climate change on the world’s most iconic surf breaks, reflecting on shifting weather patterns, rising ocean temperatures, and their effect on wave conditions and coastal erosion.

    We dive into the thrill and danger of California’s dynamic geography, from riding towering waves to living on the fault lines that shape the coastline. Nelly & Alo share wild stories from growing up in an earthquake-prone state to chasing swells in California and Hawaii.

    But the heart-pounding highlight? Alo recounts an insane week of surf adventure, racing between Jaws in Maui and Mavericks in California to chase the same historic swell. The episode crescendos with a jaw-dropping moment—Alo's ride on a potential record-breaking 108 ft. wave at Mavericks.

    How do elite surfers prepare for waves of this magnitude? Alo breaks down the science of reading buoy data, the intense mental and physical training, and the unbreakable trust between surf partners like Luca Padua. Plus, we shine a light on the unsung heroes—the Mavericks rescue team—whose courage and quick thinking make big-wave surfing possible.

    Join us for an adrenaline-fueled deep dive into the world of extreme surfing, where nature’s raw power meets human resilience. Whether you’re a seasoned surfer or simply fascinated by the ocean’s might, this episode is one you won’t want to miss! 🌊🔥🎙️

    Show more Show less
    1 hr and 15 mins
  • Episode 6: The Expendables
    Dec 5 2024

    Geoff Weers and Adam Patterson of The Expendables join us for an exciting walk down memory lane as we celebrate their remarkable 25-year journey from childhood friends in Santa Cruz to reggae-rock icons. We were curious as to how this band's unique sound came to be, and our guests captivated us with tales of their spontaneous creativity and the casual jam sessions that laid the foundation for their musical style. Whether sharing stories of early gigs at the Santa Cruz Surf Shop or reflecting on the dynamic shifts in the music industry, Geoff and Adam provide a heartfelt glimpse into the life of musicians who have rocked stages for a quarter of a century.

    Listeners are in for a treat as we explore the rise of The Expendables alongside the evolution of the music world itself. From the early days of Napster and MySpace to the challenges and triumphs on tours like the Warped Tour, our conversation highlights the band's adaptability and resilience in a rapidly changing environment. Geoff and Adam reveal the essence of their music creation process, balancing the spontaneity of their beginnings with the maturity that comes with life's responsibilities. They share how personal experiences, especially the shift from youthful exuberance to family life, have influenced their music, adding depth and authenticity to their sound.

    Finally, we take you to legendary venues like the Red Rocks Amphitheatre, where our guests recount breathtaking performances and unforgettable moments. We explore the intimate connections the band has with their music, playfully discussing which songs they'd "marry, f*&%, or kill," while delving into the personal significance behind fan favorites like "Bowl for Two" and "Sacrifice." Join us for this engaging episode that celebrates the band's enduring legacy and the shared joy of musical camaraderie and creativity that has defined The Expendables' incredible journey.

    Show more Show less
    1 hr and 8 mins
  • Episode 5: Shawn Dollar
    Nov 14 2024

    Imagine catching a massive wave that lands you in the Guinness Book of World Records. That's the life of Shawn Dollar, who shares his incredible journey from a young surfer to a big wave legend. With accolades like the XXL Awards, Shawn recounts the heart-pounding moments of riding giants at Mavericks and the remote Cortes Bank, detailing the thrill and anxiety charging monster waves. But this isn't just a tale of adrenaline; Shawn opens up about the internal tug-of-war between his passion for surfing and the responsibilities that come with it.

    We navigate the highs and lows of big wave surfing, from achieving world records to the challenges of returning to everyday life. Santa Cruz and Half Moon Bay set the stage for this vibrant surfing culture, where legends inspire newcomers and a new generation of surfers like Luca Padua and John Mel prepare to make their mark. Shawn paints a vivid picture of the addictive nature of the sport and the difficult decision to step back after life-altering experiences. The episode takes a poignant turn as Shawn candidly shares his journey of healing from traumatic brain injuries, emphasizing the need for awareness and support for similar challenges.

    Amidst the rush of the waves, Shawn introduces us to the world of mindfulness and art as tools for healing and personal peace. He discusses innovative approaches to brain recovery in extreme sports and his mission to change the narrative around mental health. Shawn hopes to inspire change and awareness through his website and an upcoming film project, underscoring the importance of finding balance in a technology-saturated world. This compelling episode blends adrenaline, community, healing, and artistic exploration, offering listeners a window into the life of a big-wave surfer with a profound story of resilience and passion.

    Show more Show less
    1 hr and 17 mins

What listeners say about Nelly's Magic Moments Podcast

Average customer ratings

Reviews - Please select the tabs below to change the source of reviews.