We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Matthew Berry a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Matthew, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Your ability to build a team is often a key determinant of your success as a business owner and so we’d love to get a conversation going with successful entrepreneurs like yourself around what your recruiting process was like -especially early on. How did you build your team?
When I first started my surf school in Oceanside, recruiting the initial team members was an exciting yet challenging task. I began by tapping into the local surf community, reaching out to experienced surfers who were not only skilled in riding the waves but also had a passion for teaching. I also posted job listings in local surf shops and used social media to attract potential instructors.
The interview process for these team members was a bit unconventional due to the nature of the business. In addition to evaluating their teaching abilities and communication skills, I took a unique approach by conducting practical interviews in the water. This allowed me to assess their instructional techniques firsthand and their ability to connect with students while riding the waves.
As for the training process, it was a combination of theoretical lessons, hands-on experience, and rigorous safety protocols. New instructors learned how to effectively convey surfing concepts, manage different skill levels, and prioritize safety in the unpredictable ocean environment.
If I were to start this journey today, I would leverage the advancements in technology to streamline the recruitment and training processes. Online platforms would play a pivotal role in expanding the reach of the job listings, and video submissions showcasing teaching styles could provide a more comprehensive view of potential instructors. Interactive online training modules could enhance their skills and understanding before they even hit the water, ultimately leading to a more efficient and effective training period.
Matthew, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?
Hello, I’m Matthew Berry, and I’m excited to share my journey with you. Born and raised in Oceanside, I’ve always had a deep connection with the ocean and the mountains. My passion for adventure and outdoor activities led me down the path of becoming a PSIA Level 3 snowboard instructor and a former Camp Pendleton beach lifeguard.
My journey began with my love for snowboarding and surfing. I’ve spent over a decade as a dedicated instructor at Mammoth Mountain, where I’ve had the privilege of sharing my expertise and helping countless individuals embrace the thrill of snowboarding. From beginners finding their footing to advanced riders refining their techniques, my goal has always been to empower my clients to conquer challenges and build confidence on the slopes.
Transitioning from snow-covered mountains to the waves of the ocean, I brought my lifeguarding experience to the shores of Oceanside. Teaching Surfing is great when someone who can keep you protected in the water is around. Safety has always been paramount in my work, whether it’s ensuring the well-being of beachgoers or guiding students through their snowboarding journeys. This has been what has led to the success of Oceanside Surf School.
What sets me apart is not only my extensive experience but also my deep roots in Oceanside. Being born and raised here has given me an intimate understanding of the local culture, the beauty of the coastline, and the challenges that come with both surfing and snowboarding. This knowledge enables me to provide tailored experiences that resonate with both locals and visitors alike.
I’m incredibly proud of the community I’ve built and the positive impact I’ve had on individuals seeking to explore these exhilarating sports. What I want potential clients and enthusiasts to know about me is that I’m more than just an instructor; I’m a guide, a mentor, and a supporter of their journey to conquer the waves and slopes. My dedication to safety, my passion for teaching, and my genuine love for these activities make me confident that I can offer an unforgettable experience that nurtures skills, boosts confidence, and creates lasting memories.
Can you tell us about a time you’ve had to pivot?
Amidst the crashing waves and salty breeze of Oceanside, a local surf school faced a challenge like never before. As the pandemic swept across the world, the vibrant beach community was suddenly silenced by the restrictions of COVID-19. The surf school, once a bustling hub of laughter and learning, found itself struggling to keep its spirit alive in a world of isolation.
With the shores off-limits and the waves seemingly distant, the surf school’s founder, a passionate surf enthusiast, refused to let the tides of adversity wash away their dreams. Drawing inspiration from the undying spirit of the ocean, they embarked on a journey of adaptation and innovation.
Virtual classes became the new norm, transforming living rooms into makeshift classrooms. The instructors, who once stood beside their students in the sand, now connected with them through screens, sharing the intricacies of surfing theory and techniques. Laughter echoed through video calls as participants attempted to mimic paddling motions from their living room floors, united by the shared yearning for the ocean’s embrace.
Yet, beyond the digital realm, something truly magical was taking shape. The surf school’s students and alumni, now scattered across the city, became a support network unlike any other. Online forums buzzed with shared memories, tips, and virtual high-fives. The community, forged by the love for the waves, proved resilient even when the waves themselves were distant dreams.
As the restrictions gradually eased, a newfound sense of determination emerged. The surf school orchestrated socially distanced meetups, where instructors and students reunited on the sand, giddy with excitement. Each student’s triumphant return to the ocean was not just a comeback; it was a testament to the enduring connection that bound them together.
In the face of adversity, the surf school’s dedication to exceptional teaching remained unwavering. The instructors, fueled by their passion, delivered personalized feedback that transcended the virtual divide. As the surfers gradually ventured back into the water, they found their skills not diminished but polished, a testament to the instructors’ commitment to their craft.
Through resilience and community spirit, the surf school not only weathered the storm but thrived in its aftermath. The camaraderie that was forged through shared struggles became the cornerstone of an even stronger community. The waves may have been unpredictable, but the bonds of friendship and the power of exceptional teaching guided this surf school towards a future as bright as the sun-drenched Oceanside beaches.
Can you share a story from your journey that illustrates your resilience?
In the heart of Oceanside, a dream was born from the crashing waves and the whispers of the ocean breeze. With no savings, no assets, and only a fiery passion for surfing, you embarked on a journey that would transform into an inspiring tale of determination and ingenuity.
The idea of a surf school took root in your mind, an idea that refused to be silenced by the absence of financial resources. Undeterred, you looked around at the simple tools at your disposal—the surfboards that spoke of your love for the waves and the car that could serve as more than just a mode of transportation.
With the relentless drive of an adventurer chasing a distant horizon, you stacked boards on top of your car, turning it into a makeshift surf school on wheels. Each surfboard was not just a piece of equipment; it was a stepping stone toward turning your dream into a reality.
In the beginning, it was more than just teaching how to ride the waves. It was about sharing your own journey, your love for the ocean, and your belief in the transformative power of surfing. With nothing but your expertise and the salty air as your allies, you hit the beaches, offering lessons to anyone who shared your spark of curiosity.
Word spread like wildfire. The surfer community, renowned for its camaraderie and shared passion, embraced your endeavor. They saw in you a fellow traveler, someone who dared to dream without the safety net of established wealth. The support you received went beyond monetary; it was a testament to the authenticity of your mission.
As your surf school grew, your resourcefulness became your greatest asset. Each penny earned was reinvested into the dream, gradually expanding your offerings. From stacking boards on your car to acquiring a few basic amenities, your progress was a testament to your ability to innovate with limited resources.
Over time, the surf school evolved into more than just lessons; it became a haven for those seeking to unlock the magic of the waves. The humble beginning, with nothing more than a stack of boards and unwavering determination, served as a foundation for a thriving community of surf enthusiasts.
Your story is a reminder that dreams need not wait for perfect circumstances. Your journey from stacking boards on your car to building a thriving surf school is a tale of courage, resourcefulness, and the unyielding belief that with passion as your guide, anything is possible.
Contact Info:
- Website: Oceansidesurfschool.com
- Instagram: @oceansidesurfschool
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthew-berry-ab2401103
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/@oceansidesurfschool?feature=shareb
- Other: https://maps.app.goo.gl/CRWMW4q2DhvJ5Bky9?g_st=ic
Image Credits
All images taken by : Anthony Ray Shane Photography in Oceanside