Noah Kagan Presents

Craftsmanship Is Sexy

71 snips
Aug 29, 2025
Discover the art of craftsmanship and why quality triumphs over shortcuts. Hear inspiring tales from a surf shop owner who transformed wetsuit technology through curiosity and integrity. Explore the importance of following your passion while embracing the hard work that comes with it. Enjoy reflections on summer experiences and personal growth, highlighting the value of showing up and tackling challenges. This journey will remind you that true success often lies in the unglamorous, repetitive efforts that build lasting achievements.
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ANECDOTE

Parenthood Reshapes Trade-Offs

  • Noah realized he has limited years to pick up his daughter and adjusted priorities toward family.
  • That perspective changed how he weighs trade-offs between work and home presence.
INSIGHT

Craftsmanship Breeds Lasting Products

  • Jack O'Neill started solving his own cold-water surfing problem and iteratively improved the wetsuit over decades.
  • Craftsmanship and curiosity, not chasing money, produced a lasting product and brand.
ANECDOTE

From Army Surplus To Wetsuit Empire

  • Jack O'Neill used army-surplus insulation to stay warm surfing in San Francisco while others laughed.
  • He turned that hack into a surf shop, iterated on wetsuit features, and scaled the business internationally.
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