“Anything’s possible, you just have to put your head down and do the work.”
– Jeff Hubbard
In this visionary episode of The Incredible Machines podcast, we sit down with Jeff Hubbard.
A professional bodyboarder from Hawaii who has won multiple world championships, including three APB World Titles and 10 Dropknee World Titles, Jeff is also the founder of Hubboards, one of the most respected gear brands in global bodyboarding.
From taking on 20-foot swells at Pipeline to designing some of the most trusted gear in the industry, his story is one of blending passion and innovation into a life that’s always in motion.
Key Highlights from Episode 35
1. Surf >> School >> Start-up
Jeff went beyond just riding the waves, he also studied them! While already a pro bodyboarder, he went back to university to earn degrees in marketing and business, using that knowledge to build Hubboards with strategic intent.
2. The Importance of Version 1
Whether it was early business ventures like No Friends or the first generation of Hubboards’ products, Jeff embraces the power of starting before things are perfect. He prioritises learning through execution, innovative iterations, and enhancing what works.
3. Innovation with Purpose
From side-entry board shorts to ultra-durable leashes used by the world’s top riders, Jeff designs gear he wants to use himself, and others trust him for that exact reason.
4. The Return of the Boogie Boarder
Jeff shares in-depth insight into bodyboarding’s evolving demographic. Many riders are now older and returning to the waves after stepping away for family or work, and this increase in adult bodyboarding is exciting to see.
Ad Campaign: The “Bat Tail vs Crescent Tail” Debate
While not a traditional ad, Jeff's interactive social media campaign asking bodyboarders to vote on “Bat tail vs Crescent tail” shows how deeply his brand engages with its community. Including the end user by inviting them into the design process reinforces that Hubboards is a brand built for bodyboarders, by bodyboarders.
Final Takeaway
Jeff Hubbard reminds us that success doesn’t need to come from luck, it can come from stretching yourself (and your hamstrings). Whether it’s innovating a wetsuit, reinventing a childhood dream, or designing with the customer in mind, Jeff shows that the ultimate reward is found in doing what you love, over and over again.
Watch the Full Episode
To hear Jeff’s full story, watch Episode 35 of The Incredible Machines Podcast on YouTube, or stream it on your favourite platform.