

Tom Rowland Podcast
Tom Rowland
Tom Rowland of Saltwater Experience Television finds interesting stories in Fishing, Hunting, Fitness and the Outdoors and brings them to you in ultra high-quality audio. Unhurried conversations with icons, up and comers and people doing amazing things outside. Text "PODCAST" to (305) 930-7346 to contact Tom directly with questions or show suggestions.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Jul 16, 2025 • 53min
3x Olympian Ryan Crouser!
Over the last year, we got a little carried away trying to organize the podcast into its own channels and destinations.
The idea was to make things easier, but I realize now—it just created more confusion.
That’s on us. And I really appreciate your patience.
So here’s what we’re doing to fix it:
✅ Every single episode of the Tom Rowland Podcast is now back where it belongs (Saltwater Experience YouTube Channel)
✅ We’ve built organized playlists so you can find exactly what you’re looking for — Full Lengths, How-To Tuesdays, Physical Fridays, Behind the Scenes, and more.
From Here Forward…this is home!
👉 Subscribe now to Saltwater Experience on YouTube to stay connected and never miss an episode.
Today we are bringing back Ryan Crouser— a 6’7, 335lb bowhunting, bass fishing, 3x Olympic Gold Medalist in the Shot Put!
Ryan discusses his athletic journey, his extensive training and nutrition regimen, and how fishing serves as his mental escape. Ryan also shares insights about his innovative shot put technique known as the ‘Crouser slide.' Additionally, they delve into Ryan's background in various sports, his impressive feats in weightlifting, and his aspirations in fishing, including his dream of catching a tarpon on a fly.

Jul 9, 2025 • 1h 16min
Mark The Shark: The Darth Vader Of Sportfishing!
I have followed Mark Quartiano who is better known as Mark The Shark for a couple of years. To say that Mark is controversial is an understatement. Mark seems to relish the role as the bad boy of Sportfishing and referred to himself as the Darth Vader of Sportfishing.
This was interesting to me because he also seems to have a lot of kind of contrary opinions and actions to being the badboy. For example, Mark has no problem killing big sharks and posting the pictures on Instagram, however after talking to him for a while I also learned that he has tagged more sharks than anyone in the world.
He doesn't just kill sharks for no reason, they are sent to biologists or he takes them to the homeless shelter.
I wanted to learn more about what made him tick so I took a chance and sent him a message. To my surprise, he responded right away and we set up the podcast even though he didn't know what a podcast was. When I met him at his iconic office in Miami it was literally jammed with shark jaws, pictures stacked 2 feet high of previous catches were all over his desk. There was so much stuff in his office that it was impossible to take it all in.
Mark sat down and talked about anything I wanted to talk about and by the end of the conversation I knew way more about Mark the Shark than before. I understood where he was coming from and I understood his motivations for what he does.
We discussed sharks, of course, tournaments, water quality and family as well as many other subjects. We may disagree on a few things but we also agree on probably way more than we disagree. In fact, at the end of the conversation I really liked Mark and respected his work ethic that has him working 450 trips a year…every year.
There is no doubt that this will be the most controversial podcast I have ever done, but I am very happy that I get a chance to talk to Mark and was very impressed with his willingness to do this interview and answer any questions I had.
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Text: +1 (305) 930-7346
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Jul 2, 2025 • 1h 4min
Andy Strelcheck | NOAA Southeast Regional Fisheries Administrator | Ep. 985
This week on the podcast, I had the pleasure of speaking with Andy Strelcheck, NOAA's Southeast Regional Fisheries Administrator. We talked about everything from fisheries regulations to data collection methods.
Andy provided a ton of insight into how NOAA works with state agencies like the FWC, the challenges of managing both commercial and recreational fisheries, and even delved into the complexities of assessing the Southeast's favorite—red snapper.
We also discussed innovations in data collection, the importance of using descending devices, and how to get involved in fisheries management councils and advisory panels. If you care about our ocean’s fish populations and sustainable fishing practices, this is a must-listen!
00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome
00:24 NOAA's Role and Public Perception
01:48 Goals and Collaboration with State Authorities
04:08 Data Collection Challenges
06:24 Commercial vs. Recreational Data Collection
07:24 Release Mortality and Observation Methods
10:33 Regulations on Descending Devices and Venting Tools
14:13 Understanding Fisheries Management Structure
22:34 Red Snapper Population and Management
29:43 Data Collection Methods in Fisheries
30:41 Challenges and Criticisms in Sampling
31:19 The Gold Standard: Fishery Independent Surveys
38:18 Technological Advances in Data Processing
41:02 Cooperative Research and Citizen Science
43:10 Grouper Regulations and Population Management
45:27 Shark Management and Population Trends
57:46 Recreational Anglers' Role in Fisheries Management
01:00:23 Conclusion and Contact Information
🚀 Special Thanks to Our Sponsor:
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👋 Stay Connected with Tom Rowland:
Instagram https://www.instagram.com/tomrowlandpodcast
Website & Show Notes https://bit.ly/3O4lgn0
Text: +1 (305) 930-7346
Email: podcast@saltwaterexperience.com
🔗 Explore More:
All Socials and Links https://linktr.ee/TomRowlandPodcast
🎥 Discover More of Tom’s Shows:
Saltwater Experience https://bit.ly/4by096g
Into the Blue Fishing https://bit.ly/48VZYju
Life on the Water https://bit.ly/3Pp9rbs

Jun 25, 2025 • 1h 5min
Capt. David Cohen | South Florida Inshore Charters | Ep. #984
In this episode of the Tom Rowland Podcast, I sit down with Captain David Cohen to discuss the intricacies of tarpon fishing in Miami.
David shares his experiences over seven years of full-time guiding, providing insights on how fishing has evolved and the techniques he's found most effective. From the importance of using the right hook and leader lengths to the invaluable role of a trolling motor, David offers a wealth of knowledge.
We also delve into the challenges of maintaining physical fitness as a fishing guide, the competitiveness of the Miami fishing scene, and the nuances of using platforms like Fishing Booker for marketing.
Tune in for an in-depth conversation filled with practical advice, personal anecdotes, and a deep passion for the sport.
00:00 Introduction and Greetings
00:27 Fishing in Miami: A Seven-Year Journey
01:18 Tarpon Fishing Techniques and Strategies
03:42 The Art of Hooking and Fighting Tarpon
06:41 Maximizing Success with Multiple Rods
10:48 Advanced Techniques and Client Management
24:42 The Importance of Leader Length and Knot Selection
32:08 The Evolution of Fishing Hooks
32:43 Choosing the Right Hook Size
34:37 Fishing Techniques and Strategies
39:26 Balancing Fitness and Fishing
49:48 The Business of Fishing in Miami
57:18 Navigating Miami's Fishing Scene
01:01:02 Conclusion and Contact Information
🚀 Special Thanks to Our Sponsor:
Star brite https://bit.ly/TomRowlandPodcast
👋 Stay Connected with Tom Rowland:
Instagram https://www.instagram.com/tomrowlandpodcast
Website & Show Notes https://bit.ly/3O4lgn0
Text: +1 (305) 930-7346
Email: podcast@saltwaterexperience.com
🔗 Explore More:
All Socials and Links https://linktr.ee/TomRowlandPodcast
🎥 Discover More of Tom’s Shows:
Saltwater Experience https://bit.ly/4by096g
Into the Blue Fishing https://bit.ly/48VZYju
Life on the Water https://bit.ly/3Pp9rbs

Jun 18, 2025 • 1h 18min
Harley Van Hyning | “Gnarly Harley” | Ep. #983
In this episode of the Tom Rowland Podcast, I sit down with Harley Van Henning, better known as Gnarley Harley, to delve into his unique journey into the world of fish printing.
Harley shares how his mother's formal art training influenced his creative path and how his love for the ocean and surfing shaped his artistic focus.
We discuss the intricate process of fish printing, the challenges of working with different species, and the importance of staying true to one's artistic vision.
Harley also offers advice for aspiring artists and reflects on his experiences traveling and painting fish around the world. Join us for a fascinating conversation about the intersection of art, nature, and passion.
00:00 Introduction and Greetings
00:28 Harley's Artistic Journey
01:33 The Influence of Harley's Mother
02:17 The Personal Nature of Art
07:52 Balancing Art and Marketing
13:56 Growing Up in Destin
16:01 Harley's Early Career and Podcasting
23:35 Discovering Gyotaku Art
37:29 The Impact of Fish Printing on Artistic Techniques
39:40 International Adventures in Fish Printing
41:45 Handline Fishing and Unique Catches
51:25 Challenges and Techniques in Fish Printing
55:10 Merchandise and Artistic Inspirations
01:07:46 Advice for Aspiring Artists
01:12:42 Connecting with the Artist
🚀 Special Thanks to Our Sponsor:
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👋 Stay Connected with Tom Rowland:
Instagram https://www.instagram.com/tomrowlandpodcast
Website & Show Notes https://bit.ly/3O4lgn0
Text: +1 (305) 930-7346
Email: podcast@saltwaterexperience.com
🔗 Explore More:
All Socials and Links https://linktr.ee/TomRowlandPodcast
🎥 Discover More of Tom’s Shows:
Saltwater Experience https://bit.ly/4by096g
Into the Blue Fishing https://bit.ly/48VZYju
Life on the Water https://bit.ly/3Pp9rbs

Jun 11, 2025 • 1h 19min
Lea Anne Powell | World Record Bass Angler | Ep. #982
In this episode of the Tom Rowland Podcast, I sit down with international angler Leanne Powell, who recently set a world record for bass fishing. Leanne shares her intriguing journey into fishing, which began at a young age and became a serious pursuit after significant personal losses in 2015.
We discuss her life between the U.S. and the Middle East, her experiences with tournament fishing, and the unique challenges and triumphs of being a woman in male-dominated sports like fishing and car racing. Leanne also highlights her aspirations for future tournaments, the importance of perseverance, and her goal to inspire others through her passion for fishing.
Tune in for an inspiring conversation about resilience, ambition, and the love for angling.
00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome
00:28 Leanne's Early Fishing Journey
01:21 Fishing Adventures in the Middle East
05:57 Transition to Tournament Fishing
08:42 Racing and Mechanic Work
15:45 Life in Texas and Fishing Tournaments
25:36 World Record Bass Catch
38:13 Catching the Big Bass: A Long Journey
38:43 Accidental Success and Positive Responses
39:41 Challenges and Learning in Fishing Tournaments
41:23 The Emotional Rollercoaster of Fishing
43:01 Balancing Personal Life and Fishing
47:41 The Debate on Women's Divisions in Fishing
57:06 Forward Facing Sonar: A Controversial Tool
01:06:32 Finding Solace in Fishing
01:14:18 The ShareLunker Program and Conservation
01:16:13 Conclusion and Future Plans
🚀 Special Thanks to Our Sponsor:
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👋 Stay Connected with Tom Rowland:
Instagram https://www.instagram.com/tomrowlandpodcast
Website & Show Notes https://bit.ly/3O4lgn0
Text: +1 (305) 930-7346
Email: podcast@saltwaterexperience.com
🔗 Explore More:
All Socials and Links https://linktr.ee/TomRowlandPodcast
🎥 Discover More of Tom’s Shows:
Saltwater Experience https://bit.ly/4by096g
Into the Blue Fishing https://bit.ly/48VZYju
Life on the Water https://bit.ly/3Pp9rbs

Jun 4, 2025 • 1h 11min
Running 100 Miles AND Managing a Successful Charter Business with Captain Tony Young | Ep. #981
In this episode, I sit down with Captain Tony Young from Forever Young Charter Company, who recently completed the grueling Keys 100 race. We dive into Tony's inspiration to run a 100-mile race, his training regimen, and how he balances his demanding life as one of the top charter captains in the Florida Keys.
Tony shares the profound experiences and challenges he faced during the race and how ultrarunning has impacted his approach to his business and life.
We also get insights into the operations of Forever Young Charters, its rapid growth, and the specialized fishing and diving trips they offer. Don't miss this engaging conversation filled with motivation, dedication, and a peek into the extraordinary life of Captain Tony Young.
00:00 Introduction and Greetings
00:19 Tony's First 100-Mile Race Experience
00:58 The Journey to Ultra Running
02:09 Forever Young Charters: A Growing Business
03:50 Balancing Work and Training
08:48 Training and Nutrition for Ultra Marathons
17:47 The Mental and Physical Challenges of Ultra Running
31:28 Support and Teamwork in Endurance Events
36:32 The Toughest Race: Badwater 135
37:24 Qualifying for Ultra Marathons
38:18 Vision Boards and Goal Setting
39:15 Cross Training and Influences
40:52 Pace and Performance in Ultra Running
50:10 Electrolytes and Hydration Strategies
55:35 Balancing Life and Training
59:00 Breathing Techniques from Spearfishing
01:01:20 Footwear and Running Form
01:05:01 Expanding the Charter Business
01:06:48 Final Thoughts and Contact Information
🚀 Special Thanks to Our Sponsor:
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👋 Stay Connected with Tom Rowland:
Instagram https://www.instagram.com/tomrowlandpodcast
Website & Show Notes https://bit.ly/3O4lgn0
Text: +1 (305) 930-7346
Email: podcast@saltwaterexperience.com
🔗 Explore More:
All Socials and Links https://linktr.ee/TomRowlandPodcast
🎥 Discover More of Tom’s Shows:
Saltwater Experience https://bit.ly/4by096g
Into the Blue Fishing https://bit.ly/48VZYju
Life on the Water https://bit.ly/3Pp9rbs

May 28, 2025 • 1h 12min
Enrique Zapata| Pull-Up World Record Holder | Ep. #980
In this episode of the Tom Rowland Podcast, I sit down with Enrique Zapata, a record-holder for multiple pull-up endurance challenges. Enrique opens up about his journey from battling serious health issues, including obesity, hypertension, and panic attacks, to transforming his life by breaking pull-up records.
He shares the physical and mental struggles he faced along the way, the inspiration he drew from David Goggins, and the scientific approach he takes to optimize his performance.
We also delve into Enrique's training regimen, the sacrifices he's had to make, and his future goals to inspire others. Tune in to hear Enrique's incredible story of resilience and determination.
00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome
00:38 Enrique's Pull-Up Records and Motivation
01:32 Personal Transformation Journey
03:53 Mindset and Overcoming Doubts
06:38 Training and Techniques
11:29 Challenges and Sacrifices
14:00 Scientific Approach to Training
21:29 Preparing for the Record Attempt
34:25 Dealing with Pain and Fear
35:03 Worst Injury During Training
35:36 Mental Challenges and Nervous System Shutdown
38:51 Overcoming Mental Barriers
45:43 Post-Record Recovery and Depression
48:38 The Importance of Service and Legacy
52:08 Struggles with Social Media and Authenticity
56:32 Training with the Best to Improve
58:50 Upcoming Challenges and Personal Growth
01:03:53 Writing and Sharing Knowledge
01:09:36 Final Thoughts and Farewell
🚀 Special Thanks to Our Sponsor:
Star brite https://bit.ly/TomRowlandPodcast
👋 Stay Connected with Tom Rowland:
Instagram https://www.instagram.com/tomrowlandpodcast
Website & Show Notes https://bit.ly/3O4lgn0
Text: +1 (305) 930-7346
Email: podcast@saltwaterexperience.com
🔗 Explore More:
All Socials and Links https://linktr.ee/TomRowlandPodcast
🎥 Discover More of Tom’s Shows:
Saltwater Experience https://bit.ly/4by096g
Into the Blue Fishing https://bit.ly/48VZYju
Life on the Water https://bit.ly/3Pp9rbs
💬 Let’s Keep in Touch!
Text: +1 (305) 930-7346
Email: podcast@saltwaterexperience.com

May 21, 2025 • 1h 9min
Bill Golden | Founder of ‘Golden Boat Lifts’ | Ep. #979
Bill Golden, the founder of Golden Boat Lifts, shares his journey from moving to Florida in 1980 to building a global empire in the boat lift industry.
Bill discusses his innovative approach to manufacturing, his commitment to quality and customer service, and how he turned his initial experience with a welding machine into a successful business.
Highlights include his insights on industry challenges, the importance of listening to customers, and exciting new developments like a hurricane-resistant boat lift cover. Bill's passion for innovation and excellence shines through as he explains how he's maintained a thriving business for over 40 years.
00:00 Introduction and Greetings
00:17 Ocala's Horse Country and Rock the Country Event
01:22 Golden Boat Lifts Facility Tour
01:41 Bill Golden's Journey into the Boat Lift Business
02:32 Innovations and Manufacturing Processes
04:45 Global Expansion and Unique Installations
07:46 Challenges and Innovations in Boat Lift Design
23:01 Freestanding and Hydraulic Boat Lifts
35:27 Innovative Cable Solution
36:35 The Importance of Patents
37:45 Navigating the Patent Process
38:50 From Ideas to Market
41:24 Challenges and Successes
43:53 Customer-Driven Innovation
46:11 Hurricane Impact and Resilience
49:43 Global Expansion and Unique Projects
55:35 Future Innovations and Business Growth
01:06:50 Conclusion and Contact Information
🚀 Special Thanks to Our Sponsor:
Star brite https://bit.ly/TomRowlandPodcast
👋 Stay Connected with Tom Rowland:
Instagram https://www.instagram.com/tomrowlandpodcast
Website & Show Notes https://bit.ly/3O4lgn0
Text: +1 (305) 930-7346
Email: podcast@saltwaterexperience.com
🔗 Explore More:
All Socials and Links https://linktr.ee/TomRowlandPodcast
🎥 Discover More of Tom’s Shows:
Saltwater Experience https://bit.ly/4by096g
Into the Blue Fishing https://bit.ly/48VZYju
Life on the Water https://bit.ly/3Pp9rbs
💬 Let’s Keep in Touch!
Text: +1 (305) 930-7346
Email: podcast@saltwaterexperience.com

May 7, 2025 • 1h 20min
Ryan Johnston | RJ’s Fly Trips | Ep. #978
I sit down with Ryan Johnston, a fly fishing guide with 22 years of experience and the founder of Cast Hope. In this episode, Ryan shares his journey of guiding across Northern California, Idaho, and Montana while discussing the evolution of his career and the impact of the 'A River Runs through it' movie on the fly fishing industry.
We explore Ryan's inspiring work with Cast Hope, a nonprofit organization that uses fly fishing to empower underserved youth. Ryan also recounts heartwarming and transformational stories from his guiding experiences, including mentoring a young guide who now works in Idaho.
This episode is packed with engaging tales and invaluable insights into the world of guiding and giving back through the sport we love. Tune in to hear how Ryan's personal experiences and passion for fly fishing have made a difference both on and off the water!
00:00 Introduction and Quick Turnaround
00:43 Guiding in Montana and Idaho
01:43 Memories of the South Fork
06:04 First Guided Trip Experiences
09:23 Becoming a Fly Fishing Guide
15:47 The Reality of Guiding
33:10 Hosted Trips and Exotic Destinations
39:55 The Legendary Guide Tim Babbage
40:29 Fishing in the Sey Shells
40:58 Unique Fishing Experiences
41:52 Eye-Opening Fishing Trips
42:57 Guiding Techniques and Challenges
46:28 The Journey of Writing Books
58:09 The Birth of Cast Hope
01:00:14 Impact and Growth of Cast Hope
01:12:58 Inspiring Stories and Future Plans
🚀 Special Thanks to Our Sponsor:
Star brite https://bit.ly/TomRowlandPodcast
👋 Stay Connected with Tom Rowland:
Instagram https://www.instagram.com/tomrowlandpodcast
Website & Show Notes https://bit.ly/3O4lgn0
Text: +1 (305) 930-7346
Email: podcast@saltwaterexperience.com
🔗 Explore More:
All Socials and Links https://linktr.ee/TomRowlandPodcast
🎥 Discover More of Tom’s Shows:
Saltwater Experience https://bit.ly/4by096g
Into the Blue Fishing https://bit.ly/48VZYju
Life on the Water https://bit.ly/3Pp9rbs
💬 Let’s Keep in Touch!
Text: +1 (305) 930-7346
Email: podcast@saltwaterexperience.com


