How did Tony Hawk get involved in skateboarding as a child?

Tony started skateboarding around 1977-78 as a fad, but an epiphany occurred when he visited Oasis Skatepark, saw people 'flying' around on skateboards, and decided that's what he wanted to do for as long as possible. He quit Little League to focus on it.

What was it like for Tony Hawk to have his father involved in his skateboarding career?

Tony's father, Frank Hawk, was very supportive and organized many events, which was helpful. However, it also made Tony feel marked and spoiled, as most kids' parents weren't as involved and preferred skateboarding to be their escape.

How did Tony Hawk's physical growth affect his skateboarding?

Tony was very small and gangly until he had a significant growth spurt around age 17. His newfound height and strength gave him confidence, allowing him to achieve much higher airs and more intricate maneuvers, which was a huge advantage.

What was the early perception of Tony Hawk's skateboarding style?

Initially, Tony's skating, which focused on board variation tricks like the finger flip air, was largely made fun of and considered a 'circus act' or 'robot skating' because he didn't have much height in his tricks. Later, as he gained height, his style became more accepted.

How did Tony Hawk deal with criticism and bullying early in his career?

Tony didn't have a support group for his concerns but focused on continually getting better. He knew if he kept learning more tricks and doing well at events, like Upland Pipeline, his skills would eventually become undeniable, turning the tide of public opinion.

How does Tony Hawk approach learning new skateboarding tricks?

Tony thinks about combining existing tricks and how body positions could shift for a new maneuver. He approaches new tricks systematically, believing he has all the necessary pieces from past tricks and just needs to put them together with precise timing.

What led to Tony Hawk's recent femur injury and his recovery journey?

Tony broke his femur attempting a McTwist (540), a trick he'd done thousands of times, thinking he could do it with less speed. Recovery was long, including a non-union fracture requiring a second surgery, after which he strictly followed doctors' orders and focused on diet, sleep, and physical therapy to heal.

What was the significance of Tony Hawk doing the 540-degree spin after his femur injury?

Returning to the 540 was a personal mission for Tony, not for pride or proving anything to others. It was deeply intrinsic to his identity as a skateboarder. Completing it, with his wife as the only spectator, was a huge emotional and physical accomplishment, done at a higher, safer altitude.

How has the skateboarding culture evolved regarding athlete health and professionalism?

Early skateboarding was the antithesis of organized sports, with partying common. Over time, as skateboarding grew in popularity and became a career option, competitors began taking it more seriously, pursuing trainers, proper nutrition, and physical therapy, with sponsors now funding such resources.

How did the Tony Hawk's Pro Skater video game come about and what was its impact?

Tony, a lifelong gamer, was approached by Activision after a previous attempt to pitch a skate game failed. The first version used the 'Apocalypse starring Bruce Willis' engine. He decided to forgo a half-million-dollar buyout of future royalties, believing in its potential, a decision that proved hugely successful, popularizing skateboarding broadly.

What advice did Tony Hawk's father give him about finances?

Frank Hawk encouraged Tony to buy real estate at 17, even co-signing for him. This initial investment in a four-acre property later became a financial drain, leading Tony to take out a second mortgage, start Birdhouse, and then sell the house to pull back on expenses, teaching him early financial shrewdness.

How has the presence of women and girls in skateboarding changed over time?

Initially, female skateboarders were few and often ridiculed. However, pioneers like Carabeth Burnside and Allyssa Steamer paved the way. The biggest shift came with the Olympics, requiring equal divisions for men and women, which removed debate and normalized women's participation. Now, skateparks see many women and girls, fostering cross-generational learning.

What is The Skatepark Project and its mission?

The Skatepark Project is Tony Hawk's non-profit foundation dedicated to developing public skateparks in underserved areas. It supports communities with advice, funding, and official approval, having helped fund nearly a thousand skateparks to date, which Tony views as essential lifelines and community centers.

What are Tony Hawk's priorities for the next five years?

Tony's top priority is being available to his kids. Career-wise, he aims to continue skating, possibly not at the same public level, but always on the ramp. He wants to keep advocating for public skateparks through his foundation and influencing skateboarding positively as its unofficial ambassador.

Key Moments

Harnessing Passion, Drive & Persistence for Lifelong Success | Tony Hawk

Andrew Huberman

Science & Technology3 min read136 min video

Jul 31, 2023|285,370 views|5,197|481

andrew huberman huberman lab podcast huberman podcast dr. andrew huberman neuroscience huberman lab andrew huberman podcast the huberman lab podcast science podcast tony hawk professional skateboarder skateboarding

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Key Moments

TL;DR

Tony Hawk discusses skateboarding evolution, resilience, business, and philanthropy.

Key Insights

Persistence and intrinsic drive are crucial for lifelong success, overcoming challenges and injuries.

Skateboarding has evolved from a fringe activity to a mainstream sport with professional opportunities and increased health consciousness.

The Tony Hawk's Pro Skater video game revolutionized skateboarding's perception and accessibility.

Philanthropy through The Skatepark Project provides vital community spaces and opportunities for youth.

Resilience, fueled by passion and incremental progress, enables comebacks from severe injuries.

Skateboarding's inclusive nature fosters intergenerational connection and shared learning experiences.

THE BIRTH OF A SKATEBOARDING ICON

Tony Hawk recounts his early passion for skateboarding, discovering it as a transformative individual pursuit unlike traditional team sports. He moved from general cruising to the exhilarating world of pool skating after seeing it in magazines, eventually finding his way to specialized skateparks like Oasis. His parents' early support, though sometimes making him feel singled out among friends, was instrumental in enabling his access to these crucial training grounds, laying the foundation for his future.

OVERCOMING EARLY DOUBTS AND Gaining Momentum

Despite early skepticism and being labeled a 'trick skater,' Hawk's dedication to mastering difficult maneuvers, even when small and gangly, fueled his progression. His physical growth spurt in his late teens provided a significant advantage, enabling higher airs and more complex tricks. The evolution of skateboarding culture, initially dismissive of certain styles, gradually embraced innovation, propelled by individuals like Hawk who pushed the boundaries of what was considered possible.

THE IMPACT OF SKATEBOARDING'S EVOLUTION AND MEDIA

The rise of skateboarding in popularity, marked by the Bones Brigade videos and influential magazines like Thrasher and Transworld, brought significant attention, which Hawk found initially uncomfortable. However, his grounded nature and focus on the sport itself, rather than fame, helped him navigate this. The advent of the Tony Hawk's Pro Skater video game was a watershed moment, introducing skateboarding to a global audience and inspiring a new generation, while also proving financially instrumental for Hawk himself.

RESILIENCE, INNOVATION, AND THE POWER OF PERSISTENCE

Hawk's career is defined by remarkable resilience, particularly in recovering from severe injuries like a broken femur. His approach to learning new tricks is systematic, breaking them down into component parts and meticulously practicing. Even after a debilitating injury, his drive to conquer the 540, the very trick that caused his break, demonstrates an extraordinary level of commitment to overcoming physical and mental barriers. This persistence is fueled by a deep love for the process and the rewards of mastering a difficult skill.

THE SHIFT TOWARDS PROFESSIONALISM AND HEALTH

Skateboarding has transformed from a counter-culture activity to a recognized sport with professional athletes who prioritize physical health. Unlike the past, where substances were common, today's skaters often engage in rigorous training, nutrition, and recovery practices. Hawk himself embraced this evolution, seeking professional advice and dedicating himself to rehabilitation, recognizing the importance of treating his body like that of any elite athlete to ensure longevity in the sport.

PHILANTHROPY AND COMMUNITY BUILDING

Beyond his personal achievements, Tony Hawk is deeply committed to giving back through The Skatepark Project. This organization supports underserved communities in developing safe and inclusive public skateparks, recognizing their power to foster community, identity, and opportunity for youth. Hawk views these parks as lifelines, similar to the one that saved him, highlighting the profound impact of providing accessible spaces for passion and progression.

FAMILY, LEGACY, AND THE JOY OF CONTINUED PASSION

Hawk emphasizes the importance of family and cherishes the ability to share his passion with his children, some of whom are accomplished skaters themselves. He reflects on his parents' foundational support and their belief in him, even as skateboarding struggled for mainstream acceptance. Now, at 55, he finds immense joy in simply skating, appreciating the opportunities it affords him and the chance to continue contributing to the sport that has defined his life.

Mentioned in This Episode

●Products

●Software & Apps

●Companies

●Organizations

●Concepts

●People Referenced

Common Questions

Tony Hawk's real name is Anthony Frank Hawk, but he has been called Tony by his parents since he could remember, making it a fitting name for his career.

Topics

Goal Setting Human Performance Mindset & Self-Improvement Peak Performance Injury Recovery Youth Development Sports & Athletics Skateboarding History Sports Culture

Mentioned in this video

People

Andrew Huberman

Host of the Huberman Lab podcast and professor of neurobiology and ophthalmology at Stanford School of Medicine.

Frank Hawk

Tony Hawk's father, who was very involved in his children's activities, including Little League and skateboarding. He organized events and provided crucial support, and later encouraged Tony to invest in real estate.

Bruce Willis

The actor who starred in the video game 'Apocalypse', whose engine was used for the initial version of Tony Hawk's video game.

Jeremy Klein

A legendary street pioneer in skateboarding and member of the Birdhouse team.

Lizzy Armanto

A tough female skateboarder who did the full 360 loop, becoming the first woman to ever do it.

Rodney Mullen

Credited as the 'Godfather of modern skateboarding' and a pioneer of many tricks, including the Impossible, who still keeps in touch with Tony Hawk.

Mark Gonzales

One of the greatest street skateboarders of all time, whom Andrew Huberman initially observed doing unique tricks and mistook for a 'kook' before realizing his talent.

Paul Check

A coach or trainer who Danny Way worked with for balance and neck work after breaking his neck surfing, marking an early example of skateboarders focusing on body care.

Mike Blabac

A skateboard photographer and friend of Huberman and Hawk, who was updated on Tony's recovery from his femur injury.

Kevin Rose

A figure in the tech sector and a former board member of The Skatepark Project, who has collaborated with Tony Hawk on philanthropy.

Tony Hawk

One of the most celebrated and accomplished professional skateboarders, known for innovations like the 900-degree spin, popularizing the sport through his video game, and his ambassadorship for skateboarding.

Nancy Hawk

Tony Hawk's mother, who along with his father Frank, graciously took in Andrew Huberman for a night when he was a wayward youth.

Steve Caballero

An established professional skateboarder who inspired a young Tony Hawk, and from whom Tony took inspiration for wearing elbow pads as knee pads.

Best Core

A doctor of physical therapy who has helped Tony Hawk immensely through his recovery from a femur injury, working on specific movements related to skateboarding tricks.

Matt Beach

A skateboarder who was on the Birdhouse team.

Carabeth Burnside

One of the pioneering female skateboarders who faced teasing and ridicule but helped pave the way for other women in the sport.

Stevie Williams

A skateboarder who has shown posts of himself in the gym, reflecting a shift in the sport towards professional physical care.

Willie Santos

An early member of the Birdhouse team, described as a 'maestro'.

Ocean Howell

A top amateur skateboarder on the Birdhouse team.

Andrew Reynolds

A top skateboarder who, despite not being a natural, became one of the best through sheer drive and discipline, and was on the Birdhouse team.

Riley Hawk

Tony Hawk's oldest son, who is a prominent professional street skateboarder with his own following. Initially shied away from skating due to external pressure but later found his passion.

Jesse Michaels

The lead singer of Operation Ivy, who is now playing again with Tim Armstrong and making new music.

Sky Brown

A phenomenal young female skateboarder, whose family and their support for her skating are mentioned.

Jim Thiebaud

A notable figure in skateboarding and current board member of The Skatepark Project.

Christian Hosoi

A skateboarder known for his style, high airs, flashy tricks, and "rockstar personality" in the same era as Tony Hawk, often pitted against him in public perception.

Mike McGill

The creator of the McTwist (540-degree spin), a trick Tony Hawk learned shortly after its creation.

Danny Way

A skateboarder who early on worked with Paul Check on physical conditioning, showing a progression towards athletes taking care of their bodies.

Nyjah Huston

A professional skateboarder described as a 'machine' and one of the most precise skaters/athletes, representing the hardcore dedication and athleticism in modern skateboarding.

Nadia Comaneci

A famous gymnast mentioned as a parallel for precision athletes alongside Tony Hawk.

Steve Berra

A skateboarder on the Birdhouse team, described as an 'ATV' for his skills in both street and vert skating.

Tim Armstrong

A member of the band Operation Ivy, whose music influenced Tony Hawk and Andrew Huberman.

Alyssa Steamer

A female skateboarder who paved the way for legitimate street skating.

Media

Hawk vs Wolf

A podcast by Tony Hawk and Jason Ellis, mentioned by Huberman as another one of Tony's ventures.

Apocalypse

A video game starring Bruce Willis that provided the engine for the first version of Tony Hawk's video game, which featured Bruce Willis on a skateboard with a gun.

Ceremony

A song by New Order, included on Tony Hawk's 540 playlist for its high energy and personal meaning.

TransWorld SKATEboarding

A skateboarding magazine from Southern California, a rival of Thrasher Magazine, that covered skateboarding during Tony Hawk's early career.

New Order

A band whose song 'Ceremony' was on Tony Hawk's 540 playlist, chosen for its meaningful and high energy.

Operation Ivy

A punk band whose music, specifically 'Sound System', was on Tony Hawk's 540 playlist and heavily influenced his early skateboarding experiences. Tim Armstrong and Jesse Michaels were members.

El Camino

A Clint Eastwood movie mentioned by Huberman for its character's immense presence, reminiscent of Frank Hawk.

Locations

Del Mar Skate Ranch

A skatepark in North County San Diego that remained open when others closed, a fortunate geographic circumstance for Tony Hawk during his high school years.

Upland Pipeline

A frightening and treacherous pool that served as a proving ground for Tony Hawk, requiring him to master it to gain acceptance in the skateboarding community.

Oasis Skatepark

One of the earliest skateparks in San Diego that Tony Hawk frequented, which marked an epiphany for him seeing people flying around.

Fallbrook, California

The location where Tony Hawk lived with ramps in his backyard during his early skating career.

Companies

Activision

The company that called Tony Hawk about developing a video game, initially based on the engine of 'Apocalypse starring Bruce Willis'.

ROKA

A company making high-quality, lightweight eyeglasses and sunglasses that won't slip off, initially designed for sports performance.

Inside Tracker

A personalized nutrition platform that analyzes blood and DNA data to provide insights and protocols for health goals. Its ultimate plan includes measures of ApoB and insulin for cardiovascular health.

Birdhouse Skateboards

Tony Hawk's skateboard company, started in 1992 using equity from his house. It involved him acting as coach, tour manager, and skater, and helped many professional skaters early in their careers.

LMNT

An electrolyte drink with sodium, magnesium, and potassium but no sugar, essential for hydration, mental and physical performance. Recommended by Huberman for proper hydration.

Organizations

Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Foundation

A foundation that funds The Skatepark Project's 'Built to Play' initiative in Michigan and New York, providing resources for skatepark development.

Thrasher Magazine

A prominent skateboarding magazine from Northern California that would sometimes criticize Tony Hawk's performances early in his career.

Stanford School of Medicine

Andrew Huberman's teaching and research affiliation, separate from the podcast.

Powell-Peralta Bones Brigade

An influential skateboarding team in the 1980s that Tony Hawk was a part of, known for popularizing the sport and their videos.

Nine Inch Nails

A band whose song 'Getting Smaller' was on Tony Hawk's 540 playlist, used in a past skate tour as a high-energy section.

Tony Hawk's The Skatepark Project

Tony Hawk's non-profit organization that develops public skateparks in underserved areas, providing resources, advice, funding, and official approval to communities. It has helped fund nearly a thousand skateparks.

Concepts

femur

The bone in the upper leg that Tony Hawk completely broke, an injury many consider career-ending, but from which he recovered.

Vert

A style of skateboarding that involves riding on a large ramp or half-pipe. Tony Hawk mentions how it became easier and safer for him as he grew taller.

Products

PlayStation

A gaming console for which Tony Hawk received modified builds of his video game for testing during development.

Honda Express

A moped that Tony Hawk bought with his early professional earnings of $600 at age 15, enabling him to get to the skate park independently.

Honda Civic

Tony Hawk's first car, bought with his earnings when he was 16. Its classic appearance led to him being pulled over due to his youthful looks.

Supplements

AG1

A vitamin, mineral, and probiotic drink with adaptogens, taken daily by Andrew Huberman since 2012 for foundational nutrition, focus, energy, and sleep.

Software & Apps

Tony Hawk's Pro Skater

A popular video game series that completely popularized skateboarding and is synonymous with Tony Hawk's name.

Skate or Die!

A skateboarding game for home systems like the Commodore 64, also one of the last before Tony Hawk created his game.