Facing Fear in Big Waves — And Building a Second Act | Bianca Valenti

What does it take to paddle into a 50-foot wave—and then keep choosing that life after burnout, setbacks, and real fear?

Big wave surfer Bianca Valenti has built a career where the consequences are immediate. But this conversation goes beyond surfing. It’s about what happens when you commit to something that demands your whole self: the training, the recovery, the mental discipline, and the identity shift that comes with a true “second act.”

We talk about how Bianca prepares for massive swells—physically and psychologically—plus what she learned the hard way about sustainability: how to push the edge without burning out, and why age can become an advantage when you train with more wisdom.

In this episode:

•  Fear as information (not a stop sign) 
•  Training the mind as seriously as the body 
•  Recovery, breath, and staying composed under stress 
•  Rebuilding after burnout and redefining the goal 
•  Helping older athletes push boundaries safely 

Whether you surf or not, this is a field guide for anyone learning to stay capable—and brave—through the long game.

🔗 References & Resources

• Bianca’s Website & Coaching Programs: https://www.bigwavebianca.com/
• Follow Bianca on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bigwavebianca/
• New York Times Magazine Feature (2019): “The Fight for Gender Equality in One of the Most Dangerous Sports on Earth” https://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2019/02/07/magazine/women-surf-big-wave.html
• Upcoming Documentary: She Change, directed by Sachi Cunningham

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Topics: longevity, fitness over 40, endurance training, aging athletes, recovery, injury prevention

Listen on:   Spotify