John West, the charismatic 'Surf Guy,' is revolutionizing the surf industry with his unique approach. His brand of comedy and business acumen has captured the attention of many. When it comes to surf entrepreneurship, pioneers like Dale Velzy, Jack O'Neill, and the Fletcher family's Astrodeck come to mind. However, the digital age has transformed the landscape for surf business owners.
John West, or 'That Surf Guy,' is a modern-day surfpreneur. His Instagram feed showcases a satirical take on surf culture, blending the angry local and the non-core surf influencer. But West is more than just a content creator; he's a former real estate professional who made a bold decision to pursue his passion for surfing full-time. He realized that the constant perfectionism and inauthenticity of his previous career would not bring him long-term satisfaction.
West's journey began with a plan to start a surf lesson business, but he quickly shifted focus to social media content creation. This strategy helped him establish a strong online presence and become a trusted authority in the surf community. As a result, he has amassed a substantial following of over 420,000 followers across various platforms, building valuable connections.
One of West's notable contributions is CityPro, a mobile application designed to connect surfers with surf videographers and photographers in coastal California. The idea emerged during his recovery from a meniscus tear and knee surgery, when he recognized the lack of attention given to everyday surfers, who make up the vast majority of the surfing community. West's app aims to fill this gap by providing a platform for surfers to capture their best moments and for videographers and photographers to showcase their talent.
The app also offers a unique opportunity for surfers to improve their wave riding skills through video feedback. West emphasizes the importance of visual feedback in surfing, as it can be challenging to notice progress without it. By providing this service, he empowers both new and experienced surfers to refine their techniques.
West's ultimate goal is to demonstrate that a successful career in surfing doesn't necessarily require becoming a professional surfer. He aspires to create opportunities for videographers and photographers to thrive in their passion, providing an alternative to soul-sucking jobs. By doing so, he hopes to inspire others to reconnect with their true selves and build fulfilling careers around their love for the ocean.
Despite the challenges of pursuing a surf-centric lifestyle, West's story is inspiring. His dedication to helping others achieve their dreams, even if they don't involve surfing full-time, makes him a relatable and admirable figure in the surf community.
