If you’ve ever been lucky enough to Surf with Women + Waves in Barbados, chances are you’ve met the radiant, wise, and endlessly inspiring Jodie. Born and bred on the island, Jodie is a trip leader, practicing sports therapist (yes, she’s even worked on Kelly Slater and Shaun White), and a yoga teacher of 15+ years. With a deep love of the ocean, the human body, and holistic wellness, Jodie brings her sunshine spirit to every session — whether she’s guiding you into your first wave or helping you unravel a stubborn shoulder knot.
We sat down for a quick-fire chat to find out what’s been inspiring her lately — from new skills to surf documentaries and a slight obsession with learning French…
What’s Lighting You Up Right Now?
“Right now, it’s more future stuff that I’m excited about! I’m starting a Foundation Acupuncture and Dry Needling course next week, which is SUPER exciting. I’ve wanted to do this for years and finally found a course here — it’s going to completely change my practice and how I do my work.
Also, I’m heading back to the UK in July for a couple of weeks — I’m so excited to come back to Newquay, visit family and friends, and eat some delicious food together!”
What Song Are You Obsessed With?
“Okay, don’t laugh — I’m not usually a pop girl (I’m more of an old-school classics type), but I’m obsessed with ‘Pink Pony Club’ by Chappell Roan right now. It’s totally stuck in my head! Also loving ‘Messy’ by Lola Young. Both songs are just on repeat on my Alexa!”
Read Anything Good Lately?
“Yes! I just finished ‘The House of the Spirits’ by Isabel Allende. I don’t usually read fiction, but this was epic. It’s historical fiction based in Chile — a place I’ve travelled to — and it was so powerful. Now I’m re-reading ‘The Biology of Belief’ by Dr. Bruce Lipton. It’s all about how your beliefs shape who you are and show up in your life from such a young age. It dives into biology and cells, but in super layman’s terms. Really interesting stuff!”
Where are your favourite travel destinations?
“Oh, there are a few places I really love! Costa Rica is definitely one of my favourites — I adore the yoga vibe and the whole pura vida way of life. It’s such a chill atmosphere, and the locals are incredibly friendly. Peru is another favourite; it’s really relaxed and has this beautiful, shamanic energy. They’re very into integrated health and energy work, which I find really inspiring.
And then there’s France — one of my top spots. I especially love Hossegor and Capbreton. That coastline is stunning, the waves are epic, and the food is fantastic. But mostly, I just love the vibe there!”
Coolest Thing You’ve Watched Recently?
“I’m obsessed with food shows — especially ‘Somebody Feed Phil’. He travels around the world eating, and he’s just hilarious!
Surfing-wise, I’ve watched some incredible documentaries this year. There was ‘Resurface’, which is all about veterans returning with disabilities finding healing through surfing. Short but really powerful! I also LOVED ‘Girls Can’t Surf’ and ‘Trouble: The Lisa Andersen Story’ — so inspiring. I related a lot to Lisa’s story — a bit of a rebel finding her power through surfing (she is a bit of trouble and so am I – AHAH!). She’s truly awesome!”
Any Apps or Gadgets You’re Loving?
“I’m OBSESSED with Duolingo. I know, super lame. But I’m so determined to become fluent in French! My Spanish is already pretty decent thanks to time in South and Central America, but now I’m going for French.
I’m on a 378-day streak — I’m so competitive with myself, I just have to keep it up!”
Whether she’s deepening her therapy skills, devouring surf documentaries, or chasing a nearly 400-day Duolingo streak, Jodie is the kind of person who lights up everything around her. Keep an eye out for her on our Barbados trips — and if you ever need surf advice or book recommendations, you know who to ask.
Dreaming of catching waves with Jodie?
Join us in sunny Barbados this year for the ultimate surf escape!
Whether you’re looking to build confidence in the water, explore the island like a local, or simply soak up that warm Caribbean vibe — Jodie’s the perfect guide to lead the way.
Spaces always fill up fast (for good reason!), so if you’re keen to join the adventure, don’t wait — secure your spot now and let’s make it happen!
