Vast Lives Podcast Episode 19: Jun Jo

In this much anticipated episode 19 of the Vast Lives Podcast, Steve get's a chance to have a discussion with Jun Jo—a surfer with a creative twist—in a beautiful field near Taichung, Taiwan. It was all part of a long, winding 10‑year friendship tour, Steve felt lucky to listen in as Jun unraveled his own journey from wave riding to making bold moves in the creative world.

The conversation jumped straight into Jun's background. Jun Jo’s story isn’t typical—born in Miyazaki, Japan, he moved to Hawaii at just five years old. Growing up amid such a mix of cultures clearly played a hand in shaping who he is today. He even shared some family tales, like his dad’s academic streak and his mom’s heartfelt dream of starting anew in Hawaii—a dream she celebrated with a traditional doll ritual.

Thinking back to his younger days, he recalled finding surfing at 13—a bit later than most pros, really. He laughed as he described how he and his friends once rigged up McDonald’s trays as makeshift bodyboards. That quirky bit of ingenuity not only hints at his early creativity but also explains why, at times, school was left on the backburner (much to his parents’ dismay).

Then came a pivotal moment when he met Japan’s celebrated surfer, Shuji Kasuya. Generally speaking, Shuji’s encouragement nudged him to dive into a professional surfing career. Thanks to that meeting, he landed his first sponsorship and began making waves in Japan’s competitive scene—even if it meant facing grueling licensing hurdles and unrelenting pressure along the way.

At one point in the discussion, Jun Jo got reflective about the role community and mentorship played in his life. He fondly recalled forming deep bonds with fellow surfers—connections that turned into lifelong friendships. During some particularly tough times (like when his parents separated), that camaraderie really helped keep him afloat.

As his surfing career took off—winning competitions and gracing magazine covers—Jun Jo admitted that the spotlight wasn’t always a welcome guest. The rush of fame, along with the weight of high expectations, sometimes felt more like a burden than a boost. He wasn’t shy about confessing that he often craved the privacy and quiet of everyday life.

Then came a surprising twist. Jun Jo pivoted from the world of endless waves into the creative industry. Partnering with others, he co‑launched a brand called In4mation. What began as a small shop in Hawaii gradually morphed into a notable name in streetwear, rubbing shoulders with various influential brands. This unexpected route eventually paved the way for his current role as creative director at Vast, where pushing inclusivity and fresh ideas is just part of the daily grind.

All in all, his journey weaves together grit, boundless passion, and a stubborn commitment to authenticity. From that early, carefree surfer in Hawaii to a respected figure in both the surfing realm and the creative market, his story shows how chasing dreams—and the connections we build along the way—can lead to remarkable places.

In the end, this episode isn’t merely about catching waves. It’s a sprawling look at life… messy, beautiful, and unpredictable—a testament to growth, friendship, and the winding road of self‑discovery.