SUPPAUL Podcast

Peter Hall’s journey into river stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) began with a restless curiosity. Early on, he wanted to take paddleboarding into whitewater—a place where traditional boards didn’t work. That challenge sparked the creation of Hala, an inflatable-only paddleboard company based in Steamboat Springs, Colorado. From the outset, Hall’s mission was to design boards that made river SUP not only possible, but exciting. From backyard experiments in Steamboat to game-changing innovations like the StompBox retractable fin, Peter Hall and Hala Gear have rewritten what’s possible in river stand-up paddleboarding.

This is Episode 60 of the SUPPAUL Podcast. Russian whitewater SUP athlete Pavel Kochanov joins host Paul Clark (SUPPAUL) for a powerful cross-cultural conversation—translated live by paddling friend Vera Fierce. They discuss Pavel’s viral freestyle videos, overcoming gear shortages in Russia, and how rivers can unite people across borders. From family sacrifices to coaching philosophies and international paddle dreams, this episode is about more than whitewater—it's about connection, courage, and creativity. In this episode, host Paul Clark (SUPPAUL) connects with Russian whitewater SUP phenom Pavel Kochanov, whose viral videos have reshaped perceptions of stand-up paddling. With translation support from paddling friend Vera Fierce, the trio dives into a wide-ranging conversation on the global growth of whitewater SUP, creative expression on the water, and the power of rivers to unite people across geopolitical divides. From his home near Saint Petersburg, Pavel shares how he first discovered Paul’s content on Instagram and how it inspired him to take his flatwater SUP to the rapids. Now known for his dynamic freestyle paddling and high-stoke energy, Pavel reflects on his journey, the challenge of accessing quality gear in Russia, and the sacrifices he and his family have made to pursue his passion. Paul and Pavel discuss everything from gear shortages and cultural perceptions to the idea of river sports as diplomacy, bridging East and West through shared flow. We also hear about Pavel’s philosophy on coaching—where overcoming the fear of falling is more important than any technical detail—and how his wife plays the role of coach, videographer, and now champion paddler in her own right. Whether you paddle in the States or in Russia, this conversation will remind you that whitewater connects us all. Highlights Include: Pavel’s entry into whitewater SUP and his freestyle evolution The surprising global hotspots for SUP paddling (States, Chile, Europe, Japan) Getting SUP gear in Russia Family support and sacrifices behind the scenes Coaching insights: why fear—not stance—is the biggest obstacle for beginners Whitewater SUP as a tool for diplomacy and human connection Pavel’s symbolic “wish” made between two Pauls: for the sport to grow and bring people together. Notable Quotes “I stand up and swim down.” – Paul “My wife is my coach. She pushes me into the cold water.” – Pavel “The biggest obstacle is fear of falling.” – Pavel “Just tell me when you're arriving—I’ll pick you up at the airport.” – Pavel Location Notes Pavel is based near Saint Petersburg, where travel to Europe is restricted due to political tensions. River Vuoksi connects Russia and Finland—paddlers on both sides share the same flow. Springtime is best for paddling in Russia due to snowmelt runoff. Pavel’s Age: 38 📸 Most Viral Video: Over 6.5 million views 📹 Filmmaking Team: Mostly filmed by his wife, using an iPhone Special Thanks To Vera Fierce for making this international conversation possible through generous translation, and to all who believe in building bridges—one paddle stroke at a time. visit suppaul.com IG: for Paul @suppaul.media Pavel @kochanov_pVera @vera_lapochka

In this 59th episode of the SUPPAUL Podcast, Meghan Christian and I talk about being on the road in the van touring throughout southern states including Alabama. Most specifically, we're talking about the Montgomery Whitewater park. This is a great place to build strength and confidence as a paddler. The people are hospitable and the beer is cold. Watch episode on the SUPPAUL YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wIOqLjkbItI

Can a paddle board make a good river rescue vehicle? In this episode of the SUPPAUL Podcast, we find out. Paul Clark talks with Baker Martin, Hank Cheatham, and Will Saylor about a recent incident on the Big Laurel River in North Carolina. Baker in a kayak got caught backwards in a strainer. Hank and Will were following behind and were able to position themselves to reach Baker and free him from his boat. It's a chilling account of a dire situation. We're happy to talk with the three men about their perspectives of the incident and running rivers. View video of the incident from Hank's helmet cam on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XWzJzxoJGYY Follow SUPPAUL via suppaul.com

In this 57th episode of the SUPPAUL Podcast, Paul Clark talks with Brent Allen. The discussion includes his full circle from being raised in Oklahoma, becoming an entrepreneur in the outdoor industry, moving to the California coast, and then back to reestablish his roots in Oklahoma. We talk about industrial whitewater parks in the South, inclusiveness, sustainability, and the value of outdoor pursuits. I feel whitewater is too often a whitewashed sport. It's wonderful to see opportunities for people of color and First Nations people to discover new outlets for creative self-expression. Brent was Lifestyle Director at the Riversports Rapids park in Oklahoma City, OK. He's now enthusiastic about what he's seeing at the WOKA park recently built along the border of Oklahoma and Arkansas. He has been involved in the SUP industry since 2008 originally working with surftech as a consultant then transitioning to Starboard as an Ocean Ambassador in 2016. Also with Kialoa then Werner paddles . He has worked in the lifestyle sports industry for 27 years and has created 2 non profits built around ocean advocacy and inland waterways. He has competed in numerous endurance sports from Ironman Triathlon to M2O. He is truly an ambassador for the industry. Thank you for listening. Follow Brent: IG @brentallenoutside FB @brentallen Linkedin http://linkedin.com/in/brentallenoutside And Paul Clark www.suppaul.com

In this 56th episode of the SUPPAUL Podcast, Paul Clark and cohost Meghan Christian are talking with Montana river SUP paddler Chad "the Dad" Dokken. Chad is leading the charge for exploring the various rivers in souther Montana, including his home river the Gallatin, the Yellowstone, the Madison, and beyond. We talk about his background as an ice climber and family man, and how these have informed his psyche to run whitewater on a paddle board. He can be found on Instgram @chadthedad and @supmontana Always feel free to reach out to us at SUPPAUL www.suppaul.com @suppaul.media

This is the 55th episode of the SUPPAUL Podcast. We're talking with Meghan Christian about our "nemesis rapids," those features on the river where we don't always succeed running the first time we attemt them. We think about them, analyze the video footage, study the lines, and even dream about them. Can we succeed in our own terms? My nemesis rapid was the Notch in Big Eddy on the Deschutes River near Bend, Oregon. That was a couple year project. Meghan's is currently what I call the "photographer's rapid" on the Nantahala River here in North Carolina. We talk aslo about river ratings and how they differ depending on what craft we are paddling. A Class3 for a kayak may be more or less difficult on a paddle board. Reach out, tell us your nemesis rapids. www.suppaul.com IG: @suppaul.media

In this 54th episode of the SUPPAUL Podcast we talk with Meghan Christian at her home in North Carolina. We talk river SUP, paddling communities, building skills, learning from others, anxiety, and fashion. Why do we wear shorts over our wetsuits running rivers on a paddle board? Whitewater paddle boarding is a thing, and we are trying to make it more accessible to people looking to get into it, build their confidence, and be accepted as they are. Enjoy! Please review, comment, and subscribe. Reach out to me via email paul@suppaul.com IG: @suppaul.media

I'm Paul Clark SUPPAUL. In this 53rd episode of the SUPPAUL Podcast we're talking with Claire Doughtery in Coloma, California about running rivvers on a paddle board. What's her background as a creative photographer? As a whtewater kayaker? And how has her creativity and love for the river translated to her paddle boarding. It's been many months since recording my last episode. But it's not because I have not been busy. I have been travelling a lot, including to Costa Rica, to Canada, back and forth across the USA. My home is now in North Carolina, so that's a big change from the PNW. Anyway, I'm looking forward to getting back to the SUPPAUL Podcast with a fresh perspective and energy. Without further ado.... Reach out with comments, suggestions. Review and give feedback. I love hearing from you. paul@suppaul.com IG: @suppaul.media

In this 52nd Episode of the SUPPAUL Podcast, we talk with Scottish river paddle boarders Sam Garthwaite (@frothysup) and Cameron Hopkins (@chopkin_sup). I learned about them through Instagram where they are documenting their adventures in a picturesque landscape of steep creeks, waterfalls, and ledgy drops. Do I dare say "Braveheartesque?" We talk about their background as paddlers, their enthusiasm with exploring on SUP boards, as well as their take on what it takes to set up people for sucess on rivers. Enjoy the show. Please comment, like, and subscribe to the SUPPAUL Podcast. Cheers! suppaul.com

In this 51st episode of the SUPPAUL Podcast, we're talking with expedition paddle boarder Sean Jansen @Jansen_Journals. He's attemting to paddle the entire length of Baja's 1000-mile coastline of the Sea of Cortez on a paddle board, solo. Unfriendly winds have hindered his progress after completing nearly 400-miles thus far from San Felipe in northern Baja. As such, he's hitting the pause button to reconsider his options, rest, and reevaluate. He reached out to me to talk strategy after being hold up in the mining town of Santa Rosalia where I began my own paddle board expedition 5 years ago. Enjoy the show.

In this episode we talk with Katie Wood. She's a physiologist from Ontario. She's an equestrian, paddle boarder, and outdoor enthusiast. You can find her in the mountains and the water. Bold and capable, she's more than comfortable adventuring solo. View this episode on the SUPPAUL YouTube channel. @SUPPAUL.media on IG. Katie's IG is @pysiooutdoors

In this 49th Episode of the SUPPAUL Podcast we talk with Canadian river paddle boarder Kimberley Kenyon. She's a strong paddler and a humble human who has an undeniable love for the sport of river running. She's building a community of paddlers in the remote corner of north western Bristish Columbia where she calls home. I had the privileage of talking to her about her background as a paddler and her perspective on the sport. The Zoom recoring is a little rough, but I hope it does capture her voice and her laugh. Enjoy the episode. And follow her on her social media channels @borntoboard.ca

In this episode of the SUPPAUL Podcast, we sit down with Peter Hall in his house in Steamboat Springs, CO. We hear the history of Hala, the inspiration for the fun pun names for the boards, and get his perspective on creating a brand of equipment to express yourself with. We also hear the voices of his family including his daugters taking over the microphones and his wife signing about heading west for love. Enjoy the episoed! Feel free to reach out with your opinions at paul@suppaul.com and on Instagram @suppaul.ig Please rate the podcast and leave a review.

In this episode, we are on the banks of the Noli River where Michelle and Cohen Atkins recently got married. They are the SUP "King and Queen" of the Whitewater Center in Charlotte, NC. And they are a great couple to talk with about river paddle boarding, having fun together, style, and the complexities of branding in the industry. Enjoy the show.

It's been a little bit since the last episode of the SUPPAUL Podcast. Since then I have run my home rivers in the PNW, spent the summer exploring new rivers and alpine lakes in Canada, and have spent much of the winter in the SE. One of the most celebrated South Eastern river is the Gauley. Known for its lethal undercuts and sieves, big rapids, and infamously raudy Gauley Fest in Fall, the Gauley is a bucket liost river for whitewater enthusiasts. But what about running it on paddle board? Um, let's talk with whitewater paddle boarder Chris Morgan to get that answer. In this episode we talk with him about his expereiences on the Gauley and training for it on perhaps bigger water in Maine. Enjoy

In this episode 45 of the SUPPAUL Podcast we talk with Charlie MacArthur. “C-Mac” is a pioneer of river paddle boarding. One of the first to run rapids in Colorado on a SUP in the early 2000s, he’s teamed with brands to design boards, and has helped shape the river paddle boarding curriculum for the ACA.

Lindsey Richter is the name behind Liv Ladies AllRide, an extremely successful mountain biking training series. In this episode, we talk with her about her background in the outdoor industry, including stating in an early season of Survivor, to creating the Ladies AllRide camps. Be prepared to be inspired!

After a year of the SUPPAUL Podcast, this is episode 43. Cohosting this episode with Jamie Mabe, we are talking with roller skating phenom, Ivey Rose aka SpicyIvey. Ivey has recently broken her leg skating, and is recovering while reminding her large audience of social media followers to stay positive. Hers is a message of boldness, and daring, and empowerment. We are taking fun, overcoming injuries, and positively influencing with social media. Enjoy! For more episodes, www.suppaul

Lela Winton (pronounced Leela) is a river enthusiast from North Carolina who can’t get enough of running on paddle boards. I met her when I paddled the Nolichucky last year, and have had the pleasure to tour a few rivers with her since. This is the first SUPPAUL podcast of 2021. Looking forward to more conversations. Enjoy!