#008 | Mike ”Happy” Cruickshank: The Rockstar Era of Surfing & Why Respect Still Matters

In this episode of Beyond The Lineup, we sit down with the legendary Mike “Happy” Cruickshank—world class surfer, surf team manager, and a walking archive of the Rockstar era of surfing. From the wild days of managing the iconic Gotcha team in Hawaii to settling down with Killer Dana, Mike shares raw stories of grit, respect, and the no-filter energy that once defined surf culture.
We dive deep into what’s changed, what’s been lost, and why honoring your roots in the lineup still matters. Whether it’s paddle battles, old-school fights on the beach, or partying all night and surfing all day—this conversation is a trip back to the golden age.