Episode #013: Jacob "Zeke" Szekely

Explicit content warning

05/09/25 • 48 min

Meeting Zeke was one of those moments that just clicked—like dropping into the perfect wave out of nowhere. In this episode, we look back on our shared journey from laid-back beach days in La Jolla to some seriously heavy sessions on the North Shore of Oahu. We talk about everything from Zeke’s insane bomb drops to that one sunrise surf that turned into an iconic poster moment. He opens up about his roots, and how growing up between La Jolla and Santa Cruz shaped his wild ride through the surf world.

But this story goes deeper than just waves. We get real about hitting bottom and finding a way back through surfing. Zeke shares his path—through addiction, jail time, and into recovery—and how the ocean helped him rebuild, one wave at a time. There’s a lot of heart in this one. We talk about second chances, staying sober, and how he ended up winning national college surf titles when no one thought he’d make it.

And yeah, there’s plenty more. From going viral to calling out industry BS, Zeke’s been documenting the ride in a way that’s raw, funny, and totally honest. We dig into what it’s like being young, creative, and carving out a new kind of surf story—on YouTube, on IG, and in real life. It’s all here: the highs, the wipeouts, and everything in between.

Tune in for a conversation that’s full of laughs, hard truths, and a whole lot of stoke.

Tune in for a conversation that’s full of laughs, hard truths, and a whole lot of stoke.

Previous Episode

Episode #10: Landon McNamara

When waves meet music and friendship, magic happens. This week on Nelly's Magic Moments Podcast, we welcome Landon, a long-time friend and the mastermind behind the unforgettable North Shore concert on Waihuana Farms. We explore the vibrant North Shore of Oahu, where Landon's vision for the "Canoeing Fest" is set to revive the music scene. But it all started with a celebration of his win at the Eddie. His passion for the arts and community spirit shines through as he shares his journey of bringing together bands like Kanaka Fire and Music and Rhythm, all in the name of love and connection. Our conversation takes a deeper turn as we paddle through the emotional and spiritual journey of surfing at Waimea. It’s not just about the waves; it's about the turtles making appearances and the raw connection with nature that brings personal growth and humility. Discover the strength of vulnerability in overcoming personal struggles, as Landon opens up about his path in the recovery community. His honesty and humility stand as a beacon of hope, showing us how past experiences can transform into powerful, positive influences when supported by a close-knit community. Family and personal growth form the backbone of this episode as we reflect on the unyielding support of loved ones and influential figures. From the unwavering loyalty of the Tenore brand to the lessons learned from parents who gave everything despite having nothing, there’s a poignant exploration of resilience and unity. As we reminisce about shared memories, we also celebrate the artistic journeys that arise from life's challenges. Whether it's the thrill of the surf or the creation of music, there's an appreciation for the small things that make life beautiful, reminding us of the lasting impact of family, friends, and the stories that bind us together.