Paddleboards and Podcasts – inspired by life in Dorset

Simon Hutchinson swapped landlocked St Albans for the Dorset coast – where he now lives, paddleboards and podcasts about life on the water

Interview Susie Atkinson

I’ve evolved from a dry-land person to a coastal one. I live in Christchurch Bay, half a mile from the cliffs, looking out at the Needles. At night, I open the windows and hear the foghorn when it’s misty. 

Before moving here, I was commuting into London, working in digital roles for Mothercare. We spent weekends escaping to the coast, and it became harder to leave. Coast magazine played a role in us making the move – we devoured the stories, which made it all feel possible. So, we made a five-year plan, moved, and never looked back.

My real passion is stand-up paddleboarding (SUP). I discovered it in 2011, when there was very little information, and had to teach myself. My first go? A disaster – horizontal rain, freezing cold, and I fell in 30 times. But I was hooked.

Now, I teach, podcast, and promote SUP safety. The sport is incredibly social – on Sundays, a group of 50-60  paddle together in Dorset. It’s also inclusive – I’ve met blind paddlers, stroke survivors, and adaptive athletes who’ve made it their passion.

Beyond fitness benefits – SUP is full-body, low-impact and brilliant for balance – it’s transformative for mental health, with a powerful connection to nature and an incredibly supportive community.

Through my SUPfm Podcast, I explore everything from paddleboarding adventures to mental health benefits, interviewing everyone from world-record holders to marine biologists. For me, SUP isn’t just a sport – it’s a way of life.

You can listen to Simon’s SUPfm Podcast on all the major platforms, or visit supfmpodcast.com.