Name:
Austin Eckardt
How your clients refer to you:
Austin
Company:
Austin’s Surf Camp
Contact Info:
Email: montauksurfcamp@gmail.com, Website: www.austinssurfcamp.com
How many years have you been in business in NYC?
4 years in Montauk.
How did you get your start and what was your initial inspiration?
I’ve been surfing my whole life in Montauk. I’ve wanted to share the experience of surfing/connection with the ocean as much as possible, especially with kids.
What do you feel differentiates you from others in your field?
While we teach surfing to all ages and ability levels, I grew up in Montauk. I know the landscape like the back of my hand and feel truly connected to the earth here.
What do you feel gives you longevity in this big city with so many options?
Local. Period.
How do you positively impact your clientele?
Teaching the kids is where you really feel the impact. When you’re in the water, there are no iPhones, or bullying, or any of the stresses young people have to deal with all the time. It’s a huge confidence booster and it really helps with focus across the board.
What is your favorite part of your job?
Watching people catch their first wave. It’s like watching someone hear for the first time or see colors as they never have before.
What is your favorite secret spot?
Camp hero. It’s got crazy/questionable history with weird mind experiments and army weapons. I grew up there and have witnessed “stranger things” if you know what I mean…
How do you benefit mamas?
Three hours of break from your kids? Plus, they come back to you psyched, exhausted, and fed? As a dad, I know how invaluable that is.
What is the most memorable feedback a client has given you?
That a challenged boy who previously felt he had no courage had suddenly blossomed into a brave, excited young man. That really made it all worth it.
Pay it forward and name your top colleagues in the same field or related field:
Leif Engstrom was also born and raised in Montauk. Not only is he an AMAZING surfer, he’s a truly great teacher and speaks “kid.” The kids love him.
What is the best advice anyone's ever given you? Or what is your "mantra" / words to live by?
Life’s a garden. Dig it the most.
As moms, the day can escape us, what is your best time-saving trick?
I’m a dad and not naturally gifted at multi-tasking. Time saving isn’t exactly what I excel at. That being said, I’m really good at living in the moment.