We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Peter Belden. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Peter below.
Peter, so good to have you with us today. We’ve always been impressed with folks who have a very clear sense of purpose and so maybe we can jump right in and talk about how you found your purpose?
When I was 16 years old, I achieved my childhood goal of becoming a Newport Beach Ocean Lifeguard and I absolutely loved it. The camaraderie amongst the lifeguards felt like family and rescuing people from the dangers of the ocean was one of the best feelings I’ve ever had. It was a dream job.
15 years later, I had graduated from UCLA and had spent a decade in real estate and software sales all while maintaining my active lifeguard status by working towers on the weekends. I learned a lot in those different industries, but I always knew I was a fish out of water sitting behind a desk.
But everything changed on July 6th, 2014, when my friend and fellow lifeguard, Ben Carlson, tragically drowned while rescuing a victim in powerful surf. It was a stark reminder of life’s fragility and the importance of seizing every moment. Fueled by a newfound sense of urgency, I made a bold decision: quit my software job, sell my car, and embark on a soul-searching journey to Bali, Indonesia, with no plans to return until I found true purpose.
After 2 months in Bali I traveled for six months through Australia, living out of a van and immersing myself in the vibrant beach communities. I admired the strong community bonds fostered by Surf Lifesaving Clubs and Boardrider Clubs, which was a stark contrast to what I had experienced in California. Inspired and driven, I had a breakthrough moment and envisioned a surf club that not only united local communities but also provided access to a diverse range of high-quality surfboards—a concept I couldn’t find anywhere else in the world.
I dedicated the following month to meticulously crafting a business plan, refining my idea until I was convinced of its potential. Eight years later, The Board Club stands as a testament to that vision—a thriving venture that brings people together through a shared love of surfing and community spirit. I believe Ben would be proud of what we’ve achieved, and I’m grateful for the journey that led me to discover my true purpose.
Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?
The Board Club is a full-service surf club that provides unlimited access to hundreds of high-quality surfboards, teaches our members about surf education and technique, and hosts social events to bring the local community together. It’s everything you’ll need as a surfer to improve and have more fun. And there’s really nothing like it. This is a novel concept I couldn’t find anywhere in the world and after 8 years in business, it’s clearly a need for surfers. But the personal impact it has on our members is what makes this club truly special. About once a month, I get a member who looks me in the eye and genuinely tells me that The Board Club and surfing has changed their life. THAT is my fuel. That is my purpose for The Board Club. Surfing has always made me happier and healthier and I want to share that joy with everyone.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
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Alright so to wrap up, who deserves credit for helping you overcome challenges or build some of the essential skills you’ve needed?
You need to have a business mentor or support group. I waited until things got overwhelming and difficult before I reached out for help. Whether your business is booming or busting, there’s always things that can be done better and advice from an experienced mentor can be the difference between success and failure.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://newportboardclub.com/
- Instagram: @the_board_club
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/newportboardclub/
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/the-board-club-newport-beach
Image Credits
No credit needed for these photos
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
