Chasing the Dream

E1

In the wake of surfing's Olympic debut in Tokyo, Chasing Waves shines a spotlight on the people and places that are defining Japan's reach in the global surf culture.

Weight of a Nation

E2

The weight of a nation rests on Team Japan as the athletes prepare for the upcoming Tokyo Olympics. Mahina Maeda and Kanoa Igarashi reflect on their multicultural identities.

Rising Tide

E3

In the wake of surfing's Olympic debut in Japan, we learn there are two types of surfers, those who compete, and those who are "free".

Legacy

E4

Family legacy is explored as surfers Sara Kohrogi and Connor O'Leary connect with their Japanese roots.

Power of the Ocean

E5

The raw power of the ocean is revealed as Mahina Maeda learns to surf big waves and Yuma Takanuki explores the 2011 Tōhoku earthquake and a tsunami's devastating impact on the surf community in Fukushima.

Ebb and Flow

E6

As the surfers deal with loss and setbacks, some question their pursuit of competitive surfing.

Undercurrents

E7

Connor O'Leary fights for a comeback on the WSL Challenger Series, facing off against Olympic silver medalist Kanoa Igarashi in France.

Sea of Change

E8

As surfing becomes a permanent Olympic sport, the athletes look to the future. Mahina Maeda and Sara Kohrogi return to Japan to learn about a rite of passage they missed while growing up in America.