On this episode, Matt Lennert (operating partner and lead instructor at NC Foil School in Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina) joins Luc Moore (host of the Foil Life Podcast) for a highly informative conversation about one of the most versatile foiling destinations on the East Coast.
Matt shares how NC Foil School was founded with partners Dale and Carolyn (fresh from 10+ years guiding tow-foiling and working with Lift eFoils in Puerto Rico). Based at the iconic Trailborn Surf & Sound resort in Riceville Beach—just 15 minutes from Wilmington airport—the school offers protected flat water for beginner e-foiling, ocean surf, thermal winds for winging, downwind runs, and inlet/beach breaks all in one spot.
The conversation dives into their proven teaching method: starting every rider on Lift eFoils with BB Talkin headsets for real-time coaching from an elevated dock. Most beginners are flying and standing in their first 60-minute session. Matt explains how they customize lessons to each person’s goals, schedule, and lifestyle—whether pure e-foiling fun or progressing into winging, SUP foiling, or wave riding.
They also cover the location’s advantages: warmer water than Hatteras (boardshorts by late May), a long season from April through early December, and family-friendly resort vibes perfect for mixed-ability groups and vacations.
Episode Highlights:
- Beginner-to-advanced progression — Why e-foiling is the fastest, safest gateway, then transitioning into other disciplines based on conditions and personal fit.
- Conditions & seasons — Flat sound water, thermal winging, ocean swell, beach/inlet surf—plus wetsuit guidance month by month.
- Lesson formats — Private or small-group sessions (60 or 90 min), multi-day Emerging Camps, and custom family adventures.
- Puerto Rico retreats — Upcoming tow-foiling + e-foil trips to uncrowded North Shore waves with all-inclusive options.
- Demo center & gear — Try the latest Lift eFoils and wings before you buy to make smart equipment choices.
- Coaching edge — BB headsets, tight real-time feedback, fatigue management, and why coached sessions accelerate progress dramatically.
If you’re looking to learn e-foiling the right way, add winging or wave foiling, or plan a fun family foiling getaway on the East Coast, this episode is packed with practical tips, location insights, and pure stoke.
Matt Lennert - https://www.instagram.com/matt_lennert
NC Foil School - https://www.instagram.com/ncfoilschool/
Visit https://www.ncfoilschool.com for lessons, camps, and Puerto Rico retreats. Reach out directly—they love creating custom adventures.
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