StarrCast

What if wellness could be scaled like culture? In this episode of Starrcast, host Lisa Starr sits down with Adam Bamba-Tanaka, Chief Operating Officer of Therme Group U.S., to explore how the global company is redefining bathing culture for the 21st century. From Bucharest to Dallas, Tanaka unpacks the intersection of urban design, sustainability, and social wellness, revealing how Therme is creating civic-scale wellness destinations that merge architecture, technology, and community.   What You'll Learn: How Therme Group is transforming ancient bathing rituals into modern wellness infrastructure. The strategy behind scaling wellness architecture for cities, blending sustainability, geothermal technology, and immersive design. Why social wellness is the next global movement redefining leisure, connection, and civic life. The economics behind large-scale wellness resorts, and how high-volume, low-seasonality models sustain profitability. Insights into how younger generations are reshaping wellness culture as the new "nightlife." Episode Highlights: 00:00 – Adam Bamba-Tanaka on his journey from Harvard urban planner to wellness visionary 06:40 – How Therme Group is scaling bathing culture across continents 14:25 – Inside Therme Bucharest: the world's largest urban wellness resort 22:50 – The blueprint for Therme Dallas and Washington D.C., redefining civic wellness 33:15 – The economics of well-being: how to finance billion-dollar wellness infrastructure 42:10 – Sustainability and technology: geothermal energy, ozone osmosis, and AI-driven water systems 50:05 – How the "Bathing Festival" in D.C. previewed America's social wellness revolution 55:00 – Why communal wellness is becoming the new cultural frontier   Meet the Guest: Adam Bamba-Tanaka is the Chief Operating Officer of Therme Group U.S., a global leader in large-scale wellness destinations. With a PhD from Harvard in Urban Planning and a background in sustainable city development, Adam bridges architecture, civic design, and wellness innovation, shaping how future cities will integrate health, nature, and community.   Tools, Frameworks, or Strategies Mentioned: Therme 2.0 Model – Global expansion of European wellness architecture. Urban Wellness Framework – Integrating civic design with social well-being. Ozone Osmosis Filtration System – Clean, sustainable water management. RFID-Based Guest Flow Design – Seamless operational technology for wellness resorts. Contrast Therapy Experience Model – Merging heat, cold, and rest for recovery and reconnection. Closing Insight: "Wellness isn't a luxury, it's a civic necessity. We're not building spas. We're building social infrastructure for human thriving." – Adam Bamba-Tanaka Explore the intersection of architecture, culture, and wellbeing, and discover how Therme is redefining what it means to live well in the modern city.   Looking for expert advice in Spa Consulting, with live training and online learning?   Spa Consulting: wynnebusiness.com/spa-management-consulting Live Training: wynnebusiness.com/live-education Online Learning: wynnebusiness.com/spa-management-courses   Other Links: Connect with Adam Tanaka: linkedin.com/in/adam-bamba-tanaka-phd-12496123   Follow Lisa on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisastarrwynnebusiness, Listen on Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/at/podcast/starrcast/id1565223226 Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/00tW92ruuwangYoLxR9WDd   Watch the StarrCast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@wynnebusiness Join us on Facebook: facebook.com/wynnebusiness/?ref=bookmarks Join us on Instagram: instagram.com/wynnebusiness  

The future of wellness is global, collaborative, and human-centered. In this Starrcast Podcast episode, host Lisa Starr sits down with Diego Carrete, Professor Meng-Mei “Maggie” Chen, and Dr. Jiri Dvorak to preview the Global Wellness Summit 2025, where science, culture, and leadership converge to redefine the meaning of wellbeing. Together, they explore how innovation, education, and empathy will shape the wellness economy of tomorrow, from precision medicine and hospitality transformation to cross-industry collaboration.   What You'll Learn: How corporate wellness programs are evolving from benefits to business strategy. The new role of education and cultural intelligence in building inclusive global wellness systems. Why data-driven longevity is redefining healthcare, prevention, and mobility. How hospitality is transforming into a force for social connection and emotional well-being. Why empathy, collaboration, and innovation must guide the future of the wellness industry.   Episode Highlights: 00:00 – How the Global Wellness Summit is shaping the future of longevity and leadership 05:30 – Diego Carrete on building a culture of wellness in the corporate world 12:40 – How data, purpose, and accountability fuel sustainable wellbeing programs 20:55 – The new economics of wellness and the rise of cross-sector collaboration 32:05 – Professor Maggie Chen on hospitality as a driver of human connection 40:10 – Education as the invisible infrastructure of the wellness economy 46:15 – Dr. Jiri Dvorak on the link between movement, cognitive health, and longevity 53:25 – Why collaboration across medicine, design, and education defines the next wellness era Meet the Guests: Diego Carrete is Chief Wellness Officer of First Abu Dhabi Bank and Co-Chair of GWS25. As one of the region's foremost advocates for integrative leadership and corporate wellness, he is known for bridging strategy and wellbeing in the global business landscape. Professor Meng-Mei “Maggie” Chen is an Associate Professor at EHL, and author of the book Hospitality Vibes. Her work focuses on the future of wellness education, cultural empathy, and “glocal” innovation. Dr. Jiri Dvorak, Neurologist, Senior Advisor to BDMS Wellness Clinic, Bangkok, and Research Strategy Consultant, is a global authority in sports medicine and longevity science. His research and leadership have redefined how data, mobility, and lifestyle contribute to cognitive and physical vitality. Tools, Frameworks, or Strategies Mentioned: Global Wellness Incubator Model — fostering cross-sector collaboration and innovation. Precision Wellness Framework — integrating data analytics and personalized prevention strategies. “Glocal” Education Paradigm — merging global wellness standards with local cultural wisdom. Closing Insight: “Wellness is no longer a luxury, it's an infrastructure for thriving societies.” – Lisa Starr The Global Wellness Summit 2025 will bring together leaders in medicine, business, and education to reimagine wellbeing as the foundation of economic and social progress.   Looking for expert advice in Spa Consulting, with live training and online learning?   Spa Consulting: wynnebusiness.com/spa-management-consulting Live Training: wynnebusiness.com/live-education Online Learning: wynnebusiness.com/spa-management-courses   Other Links:   Visit Global Wellness Summit: https://www.globalwellnesssummit.com/2025-global-wellness-summit-3/   Connect with Diego Carrete: linkedin.com/in/diegocarrete Connect with Professor Meng-Mei “Maggie” Chen: linkedin.com/in/mengmeichen Connect with Dr. Jiri Dvorak: linkedin.com/in/profjiridvorak   Follow Lisa on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisastarrwynnebusiness, Listen on Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/at/podcast/starrcast/id1565223226 Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/00tW92ruuwangYoLxR9WDd Watch the StarrCast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@wynnebusiness Join us on Facebook: facebook.com/wynnebusiness/?ref=bookmarks Join us on Instagram: instagram.com/wynnebusiness

What if aging could be redefined, not as decline, but as evolution? In this episode, Nancy Griffin, founder of Glowing Older, joins host Lisa Starr to explore the emerging longevity movement and what it really means to age with vitality, purpose, and community. From wellness innovation to anti-ageism in the spa industry, Nancy shares how we can transform aging into an empowering, joyful stage of life, one grounded in self-care, connection, and balance.   What You'll Learn: How the wellness industry can reclaim its original mission: nurturing mind, body, and spirit, not just beauty. What “aging in place” truly means, and why it's more about community and connection than just staying home. The global longevity shift and what the Agetech revolution means for independence and healthspan. How to dismantle ageism and redesign wellness spaces for inclusivity across generations. Why joy, purpose, and mindset are the real longevity “biohacks.” Episode Highlights: 00:00 – Why “Glowing Older” became a movement, not just a podcast 06:45 – How COVID sparked global conversations about longevity 13:10 – Rethinking aging in place and building communities that connect 20:35 – How loneliness impacts longevity as much as smoking 28:50 – Ageism in wellness: why “anti-aging” needs to go 36:15 – Agetech innovations reshaping independence and safety 43:20 – The spa industry's role in the new longevity economy 48:35 – Finding joy, balance, and purpose as the ultimate longevity tools   Meet the Guest: Nancy Griffin is the founder of Glowing Older, a pioneering podcast and platform at the intersection of aging, wellness, and community. A Cornell graduate and longtime wellness industry strategist, Nancy's mission is to educate and inspire both professionals and consumers on redefining aging, with optimism, purpose, and humanity.   Tools, Frameworks, or Strategies Mentioned: Agetech Collaborative (AARP) – advancing technology that empowers aging independence. WHO Anti-Ageism Framework – addressing internal bias, policy, and intergenerational connection. Blue Zones & Ikigai Philosophy – longevity lessons from purpose-driven living. Joy Span Framework (Dr. Carrie Burnight) – measuring how much joy you create daily. Closing Insight: “Aging is inevitable, decline is optional.” – Nancy Griffin Nancy reminds us that longevity isn't about adding years to life, it's about adding life to years. With balanced habits, lifelong curiosity, and a little joy every day, we can all redefine what it means to age well.   Looking for expert advice in Spa Consulting, with live training and online learning? Spa Consulting: wynnebusiness.com/spa-management-consulting Live Training: wynnebusiness.com/live-education Online Learning: wynnebusiness.com/spa-management-courses Other Links: Contact Nancy Griffin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nancygriffin/ Follow Lisa on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisastarrwynnebusiness, Listen on Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/at/podcast/starrcast/id1565223226 Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/00tW92ruuwangYoLxR9WDd Watch the StarrCast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@wynnebusiness Join us on Facebook: facebook.com/wynnebusiness/?ref=bookmarks Join us on Instagram: instagram.com/wynnebusiness

The fitness and wellness revolution is transforming Saudi Arabia, and FIBO Arabia 2025 is at the center of it. In this episode of the Starrcast Podcast, host Lisa Starr takes you behind the scenes at the first-ever FIBO Arabia event in Riyadh to uncover how vision, entrepreneurship, and cultural transformation are reshaping the region's wellness economy. From boutique studios and luxury health clubs to female empowerment and data-driven innovation, this conversation reveals how the Middle East is redefining what “wellness for all” truly means.   What You'll Learn: From law to Pilates: How Dina Elshurafa turned her legal career into a thriving boutique fitness brand, Reform Athletica, and what it takes to scale in a new market. Cultural innovation in fitness: How Louise Whiles and Matthew Graham are adapting global wellness concepts to meet the needs of Saudi Arabia's rapidly growing audience. Building wellness economies: Insights into the investment, training, and retention strategies shaping the region's next generation of fitness professionals. The business of transformation: Susan Turner shares how Saudi's Vision 2030 is empowering women, driving entrepreneurship, and redefining community health. A region in motion: Why the Middle East's wellness expansion represents one of the most dynamic market opportunities in global hospitality and lifestyle sectors. Episode Highlights: 00:00 – On location at FIBO Arabia: a new era for fitness in Saudi Arabia 04:10 – Dina Elshurafa on leaving law for wellness and building Reform Athletica 13:45 – Louise Whiles on inclusive design and empowering women through fitness 25:20 – Matthew Graham on leadership, local training, and integrated wellness ecosystems 39:05 – Susan Turner on the evolution of Saudi wellness and Vision 2030 51:30 – Collaboration, innovation, and the wellness economy's new frontier 1:04:40 – How Saudi Arabia is shaping the global fitness conversation 1:10:20 – Closing reflections: redefining wellness, access, and human potential   Meet the Guests: Dina Elshurafa – Founder of Reform Athletica, a luxury boutique fitness brand blending Pilates, TRX, and strength training with a community-focused philosophy. Louise Whiles – Director of Operations at Reform Athletica, and a former professional dancer, specializing in movement-based programming and performance coaching. Matthew Graham – General Manager of Core Life, a regional social wellness company integrating spa, performance, recovery, and lifestyle data science across the Middle East. Susan Turner – Saudi-based wellness consultant and industry pioneer who helped launch the Kingdom's first female fitness centers and expand Pure Gym's footprint across the GCC.   Tools, Frameworks, or Strategies Mentioned: Reform Athletica Method™ – A boutique training system combining Pilates, barre, and functional movement. Core Life Ecosystem – A holistic model integrating fitness, nutrition, recovery, and behavioral insights. Vision 2030 Wellness Framework – Saudi Arabia's strategic plan for health, well-being, and inclusivity. Precision Health Models – The intersection of DNA testing, AI, and personalized wellness programming. Closing Insight: “We're not just opening gyms, we're opening doors for transformation.” – Susan Turner FIBO Arabia 2025 isn't just an event; it's a milestone in the Middle East's wellness journey. Through entrepreneurship, inclusivity, and innovation, Saudi Arabia is redefining what the global wellness future looks like.   Looking for expert advice in Spa Consulting, with live training and online learning? Spa Consulting: wynnebusiness.com/spa-management-consulting Live Training: wynnebusiness.com/live-education Online Learning: wynnebusiness.com/spa-management-courses   Other Links: Know more about FIBO Arabia: https://www.linkedin.com/company/fiboshow-arabia/ Follow Lisa on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisastarrwynnebusiness, Listen on Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/at/podcast/starrcast/id1565223226 Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/00tW92ruuwangYoLxR9WDd Watch the StarrCast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@wynnebusiness Join us on Facebook: facebook.com/wynnebusiness/?ref=bookmarks Join us on Instagram: instagram.com/wynnebusiness  

How is China redefining wellness travel and reshaping the global spa industry? In this episode of the Starrcast Podcast, host Lisa Starr sits down at the Spa China Summit with Michael Branham, General Manager of the Four Seasons Suzhou, and Jonas Schurman, Board Member of Reformosa and longtime Mandarin Oriental executive. Together, they unpack how wellness has evolved from spa treatments to a lifestyle driver that shapes hospitality strategy, guest experience, and revenue performance. Listeners will gain a first-hand look at how second-tier Chinese cities are setting global wellness trends, why younger Chinese travelers are becoming wellness trendsetters, and what the future of hospitality will look like when AI, sleep science, rehab, and family well-being converge.   What You'll Learn: The shift from “spa treatments” to wellness as a lifestyle in luxury hospitality. Why China's younger generation is leading global wellness demand. The role of spa and wellness in driving ADR and length of stay in hotels. Insights into family wellness, pet-friendly hospitality, and immersive cultural retreats. How **emerging innovations, AI, robotics, sleep programs, and rehab services, **may transform the spa industry. Episode Highlights: 00:00 – How Michael's 28-year Four Seasons journey shaped his wellness perspective 09:15 – What wellness really means beyond spa treatments 18:40 – Inside the Four Seasons Chiang Rai Tented Camp experience 28:05 – Why Suzhou is a “second-tier city” driving first-class wellness 36:55 – The rise of younger Chinese travelers as wellness trendsetters 45:20 – Family-friendly wellness, pet programs, and immersive experiences 52:10 – Jonas Schurman on ADR, profitability, and the business case for wellness 01:00:05 – Future innovations: sleep, rehab, AI, and personalization in hospitality   Meet the Guests Michael Branham – General Manager at Four Seasons Suzhou with nearly three decades in luxury hospitality, spanning Tokyo, Bali, Chiang Mai, and Hangzhou. Known for integrating spa innovation and cultural authenticity into resort experiences. Jonas Schurman – Board Member at Reformosa, a global real estate development company, and former Mandarin Oriental executive. With decades of leadership in luxury hospitality, Jonas is a recognized expert on the financial value of wellness in hotels.   Tools, Frameworks, or Strategies Mentioned Visiting Practitioner Model – rotating healers, teachers, and wellness experts. Wellness-Driven ADR – how spa offerings increase average daily rate and guest loyalty. Family & Pet Wellness – expanding wellness to kids, parents, and even pets. AI & Robotics in Wellness – personalization, wearable tech, and after-hours treatments.   Closing Insight “Wellness is no longer optional; it's the heart of luxury hospitality. The properties bold enough to innovate in sleep, rehab, and family well-being will lead the next wave of global travel.” Looking for expert advice in Spa Consulting, with live training and online learning?   Spa Consulting: wynnebusiness.com/spa-management-consulting Live Training: wynnebusiness.com/live-education Online Learning: wynnebusiness.com/spa-management-courses   Other Links: Learn More About Michael Branham: hthttps://press.fourseasons.com/suzhou/hotel-team/michael-branham.htmltps://my.linkedin.com/in/gerrybodeker Contact Jonas Schuermann: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonas-schuermann-46b86315/ Follow Lisa on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisastarrwynnebusiness, Listen on Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/at/podcast/starrcast/id1565223226 Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/00tW92ruuwangYoLxR9WDd   Watch the StarrCast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@wynnebusiness Join us on Facebook: facebook.com/wynnebusiness/?ref=bookmarks Join us on Instagram: instagram.com/wynnebusiness

Wellness travel is no longer a luxury; it's a movement. In this episode of the Starrcast Podcast, host Lisa Starr explores the rise of boutique wellness retreats with industry veterans Sallie Fraenkel and Wendy Bosalovage, the co-founders of Redbird House in the Catskills of New York. From building a three-story retreat property during COVID to curating transformative guest experiences, Sallie and Wendy share how they turned a plot of land into one of the most buzzworthy destinations in wellness travel, and what their story reveals about the future of retreats, hospitality, and community-driven health.   What You'll Learn: The business of transformation – How Redbird House balances creative retreat design with a solid revenue model that includes proprietary programming, Airbnb rentals, and partnerships with outside retreat leaders. Designing for impact – Why the “built environment” and guest experience planning are as critical as the retreat programming itself. Creating conditions for transformation – Practical insights into pricing, capacity planning, and delivering value while fostering authentic personal growth. Trends in wellness travel – The rise of specialty retreats (menopause, conscious leadership, urban day retreats) and why segmentation is the next growth frontier. Leadership lessons – How two seasoned wellness professionals navigated risk, uncertainty, and creative collaboration to build a thriving business during a global pandemic.   Episode Highlights: 00:00 – Why wellness retreats are booming beyond the traditional spa visit 05:30 – Sallie's journey from entertainment to wellness entrepreneurship 12:40 – Wendy's path from fashion to corporate wellness and spa development 20:15 – The serendipitous story behind the Redbird House name and design 28:05 – Building a three-story retreat home during the challenges of COVID 36:20 – How Redbird House creates “conditions for transformation” in every retreat 44:10 – Pricing strategy and the business model behind a successful wellness retreat 50:25 – Future trends: menopause retreats, urban day programs, and the global retreat economy   Meet the Guests: Sallie Fraenkel is President of MindBodySpirit Network, an event curator and wellness consultant who has organized over 55 industry networking experiences and worked with leading properties like Canyon Ranch, Rancho La Puerta, and Retreat Costa Rica. Wendy Bosalovage is President of The Wellbeing Collective and a longtime spa and wellness strategist known for her expertise in operational design, new business development, and creating transformative built environments. Together, they co-founded Redbird House, a boutique wellness retreat destination in Bethel, New York, dedicated to helping women reconnect with themselves through community, curated programming, and playful-yet-profound experiences.   Tools, Frameworks, or Strategies Mentioned: MindBodySpiritCamp seasonal retreat series for summer programs “Middle Cappuccino Layer” Retreat Design – a unique metaphor for balancing depth and playfulness Synergy Retreat Show – a global gathering of wellness and retreat leaders influencing the next wave of wellness travel   Closing Insight: “We create the conditions, but transformation is an inside job.” – Sallie Fraenkel Redbird House proves that with vision, collaboration, and careful planning, wellness retreats can be both meaningful and profitable. Explore upcoming retreats or learn more at redbirdhouseny.com and discover how intentional spaces can unlock connection, creativity, and personal growth.   Looking for expert advice in Spa Consulting, with live training and online learning? Spa Consulting: wynnebusiness.com/spa-management-consulting Live Training: wynnebusiness.com/live-education Online Learning: wynnebusiness.com/spa-management-courses   Other Links: Contact Sallie Fraenkel: https://www.linkedin.com/in/salliefraenkel Contact Wendy Bosalavage: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wendy-nierel-bosalavage-1001287/   Follow Lisa on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisastarrwynnebusiness, Listen on Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/at/podcast/starrcast/id1565223226 Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/00tW92ruuwangYoLxR9WDd   Watch the StarrCast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@wynnebusiness Join us on Facebook: facebook.com/wynnebusiness/?ref=bookmarks Join us on Instagram: instagram.com/wynnebusiness

Microplastics aren't just an environmental problem; they're a hidden human health crisis. In this eye-opening episode of the Starrcast Podcast, host Lisa Starr speaks with Dr. Gerry Bodeker (Oxford public health researcher and Global Wellness Institute leader) and Trent Munday (Senior Vice President International, Mandara Spa) about the alarming presence of microplastics in our air, food, water, and even our brains. Discover how these invisible particles impact mental wellness, what new science reveals about Alzheimer's and inflammation, and how AI-powered tools are helping track and fight this global threat.   What You'll Learn: The hidden pathways of exposure – How microplastics enter the body through air, water, food, and everyday objects like car tires and kitchen utensils. The brain connection – Groundbreaking research linking microplastic accumulation to Alzheimer's disease and neurological decline. Practical defenses – Simple actions to reduce personal exposure, from boiling water to replacing common household items. Global policy & wellness implications – Why the UN Plastics Treaty failed to cap production and how wellness leaders can drive health-focused advocacy. AI for public health – How the new Microplastics Watch Initiative and AI tools are transforming massive data streams into actionable insights. Episode Highlights: 03:15 – A shocking Nature Medicine study finds 10x more plastic in Alzheimer's brains 12:40 – The surprising top source of airborne microplastics: car tires 21:05 – Why boiling water can reduce microplastics by up to 90% 29:18 – Everyday habits that accelerate microplastic ingestion and absorption 38:52 – Inside the UN Plastics Treaty debate: capping production vs. recycling 47:36 – The birth of the Microplastics Watch Initiative and AI-powered research tools 56:10 – Wellness action steps: from spa operations to personal lifestyle choices   Meet the Guests: Dr. Gerry Bodeker is a public health researcher with two decades at Oxford University, adjunct professor at Columbia, and co-chair of the Global Wellness Institute's Mental Wellness Initiative. Trent Munday is Senior Vice President International for Mandara Spa and co-founder of the Microplastics Watch Initiative, leveraging AI to track global microplastics research.   Tools, Frameworks, or Strategies Mentioned: Microplastics Watch Initiative – A Global Wellness Institute project aggregating daily research and news. Lucient AI Suite – Trent's custom-built AI toolkit for creating a dynamic, continuously updated white paper. Boiling + Metal Filtration Method – A simple household practice that removes up to 95% of microplastics from drinking water.   Closing Insight: “Microplastics are not just polluting our oceans, they're infiltrating our brains and bodies. Measurement, awareness, and collective action are the next frontier in wellness.” – Dr. Gerry Bodeker   Looking for expert advice in Spa Consulting, with live training and online learning? Spa Consulting wynnebusiness.com/spa-management-consulting Live Training wynnebusiness.com/live-education Online Learning wynnebusiness.com/spa-management-courses Other Links: Contact Dr. Gerry Bodeker: https://my.linkedin.com/in/gerrybodeker Contact Trent Munday: https://my.linkedin.com/in/trentmunday Follow Lisa on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisastarrwynnebusiness, Listen on Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/at/podcast/starrcast/id1565223226 Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/00tW92ruuwangYoLxR9WDd Watch the StarrCast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@wynnebusiness Join us on Facebook: facebook.com/wynnebusiness/?ref=bookmarks Join us on Instagram: instagram.com/wynnebusiness

STARRCAST IS BACK for Season 9! We are thrilled to return to bring you more insights and fresh perspectives to help your spa business thrive! Thinking about opening a sauna or bathhouse, or scaling the one you've got?  To kick things off, we're replaying an incredibly informative webinar that unpacks the operating math behind the hydrothermal business: capacity planning, MEP-first (“engine room”) design, admissions-led pricing, and the real bottleneck no one budgets for: laundry throughput.  Expect candid lessons from operators and designers shaping the U.S. market, including Bathhouse (NYC) and leaders from the Global Wellness Institute initiatives. You'll learn how to right-size back-of-house, choose between open-ended admission vs. timed sessions, and design people-flow, so staff can manage more guests with less friction, all while protecting margins and guest experience. What You'll Learn: Why bathhouses are surging now: the shift to social wellness, accessible pricing, and admissions-first business models. MEP > “wow rooms”: how an engine-room-first approach (ventilation, filtration/sanitation, drainage, electrical) prevents constant firefighting. Capacity & pricing mechanics: choosing dynamic pricing, timed sessions, or walk-ins based on footprint, software, and throughput. Back-of-house math: planning for ~⅓ non-guest area, with laundry and storage sized to daily towel turns and peak flow. Revenue mix that actually works: admissions as the margin engine, treatments as add-ons, and F&B designed to extend dwell time—not clog operations. Episode Highlights (Chapters): 00:52 – Why “social wellness” is driving the U.S. sauna/bathhouse wave—and how this model differs from appointment-led spas. 06:18 – The hydrothermal specialist team you need on day one (designer + MEP) and why wet areas blow up naïve $/ft² assumptions. 12:40 – “Start with your engine room”: air changes, filtration, drainage, and electrical that determine guest comfort and uptime. 18:55 – Lessons from Bathhouse NYC: designing around laundry first (thousands of towels/day) and keeping sightlines open to reduce staffing. 25:03 – Admission strategy: open-ended stays with dynamic pricing vs. timed sessions in smaller/hotel footprints—software and UX trade-offs. 33:27 – Lease vs. buy: why most startups lease to preserve capex for fit-out; right-sizing scope and contingency. 41:42 – What really makes money: admissions > treatments; F&B for physiology and community, not margin. 49:58 – Guest norms & flow: no-photo policies, wet-to-dry separation, and the contrast-therapy circuit (hot → cold → rest). Meet the Guests Don Genders — CEO, Design for Leisure; Chair, GWI Hydrothermal Initiative (global authority on thermal & wet-area design). Lynn Curry — Principal, Curry Spa Consulting; member, GWI Consulting Initiative (concept-to-opening spa development). Travis Talmadge — Co-founder/operator, Bathhouse (NYC: Williamsburg & Flatiron), a high-volume, admissions-led urban bathhouse. Tools, Frameworks, or Strategies Mentioned: Engine-Room-First Design: lead with MEP (mechanical, electrical, plumbing), ventilation/air changes, filtration, drainage, and storage. Capacity/Throughput Modeling: people-flow tracking, dynamic pricing, and sightlines to manage density with fewer staff. Contrast-Therapy Circuit: hot → cold → rest cycle embedded in layout and wayfinding. CFO Lens for Scope: capex vs. opex trade-offs, contingency, and location-first site selection. Closing Insight “We design around the laundry first.” The margin lives or dies in the back-of-house—build the plant right and the guest magic follows. If this episode helped, follow/subscribe and share it with a developer, hotel GM, or wellness entrepreneur planning a hydrothermal project.   Looking for expert advice in Spa Consulting, with live training and online learning?   Spa Consulting: wynnebusiness.com/spa-management-consulting Live Training: wynnebusiness.com/live-education Online Learning: wynnebusiness.com/spa-management-courses   Other Links: Contact Dr. Gerry Bodeker: https://my.linkedin.com/in/gerrybodeker Contact Trent Munday: https://my.linkedin.com/in/trentmunday Follow Lisa on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisastarrwynnebusiness, Listen on Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/at/podcast/starrcast/id1565223226 Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/00tW92ruuwangYoLxR9WDd   Watch the StarrCast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@wynnebusiness Join us on Facebook: facebook.com/wynnebusiness/?ref=bookmarks Join us on Instagram: instagram.com/wynnebusiness

In this immersive live episode, host Lisa Starr brings listeners into the heart of the first-ever U.S. Aufguss World Masters Trials, recorded on-site at the newly expanded Bathhouse Williamsburg in Brooklyn, NY. As the ancient European tradition of Aufguss—a multisensory, storytelling sauna ritual—makes its competitive debut in America, Lisa interviews several key figures shaping this cultural movement. From competition judges and spa innovators to passionate sauna performers, including a dynamic sister duo with Cirque du Soleil experience, this episode highlights the artistry, athleticism, and emotional resonance of the Aufguss ritual. Listeners will gain insight into the rising popularity of sauna culture in the U.S., the business potential for spa operators, and how this ancient practice is inspiring a new wave of wellness. Guest Highlights Lasse Eriksen – VP of the Aufguss World Masters and Development Director at Farris Bad, Norway. Lasse shares the competition's structure, judging criteria, and the emotional power of storytelling through heat, scent, and movement. Travis Talmadge – Co-founder of Bathhouse Brooklyn and Flatiron. Travis explains how his facilities are leading the charge in U.S. sauna culture and how Aufguss became an essential part of guest onboarding and programming. Joli & Alexi Irvine – Las Vegas-based professional dancers turned sauna meisters. Representing Fontainebleau's Lapis Spa, they share how dance, breathwork, and storytelling combine in their team Aufguss performance. Don Genders – CEO & Principal of Design for Leisure and pioneer in building world-class spas and saunas. Don discusses the evolution of sauna culture in the U.S. and why Aufguss is poised for growth as both a wellness tool and performance art. Key Takeaways Aufguss is a theatrical, multisensory sauna ritual with global roots, now gaining traction in the U.S. Competitions judge heat control, scent integration, waving techniques, hygiene, and storytelling. Sauna programming, when done right, enhances wellness, builds community, and can create strong ROI for spas. U.S. winners of this event will go on to represent the country at the world championships in Verona, Italy. Aufguss is both accessible and inspiring—open to anyone willing to learn and perform with passion.

This compelling episode of StarrCast comes to you live from Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, where host Lisa Starr sits down with the dynamic Dr. Ebtissam AlMadi, co-owner of the Kadoon family of businesses, wellness visionary, and cultural bridge-builder. Together, they explore the remarkable evolution of spa and wellness in the Kingdom—from the first medical spa in 2003 to the creation of the Kadoon integrated ecosystem including a spa, beauty school, and wellness product distributorship. Dr. AlMadi shares her personal journey from dentistry to becoming a national leader in wellness, highlighting how global standards are being harmonized with Saudi cultural values. The episode dives deep into the rapid transformation of wellness education, the role of local traditions in spa treatments, and the emergence of Saudi Arabia as a world-class wellness destination. Guest Highlights Dr. Ebtissam AlMadi: Co-founder of Kadoon Companies; wellness entrepreneur; trained dentist and university professor. Visionary behind Saudi Arabia's first medical spa and the country's only licensed beauty and wellness training institute under technical and vocational education authority. Catalyst for creating the Saudi Wellness Association, connecting global thought leaders with local policymakers and health authorities. Key Takeaways Integrating Eastern and Western Values: Dr. AlMadi's unique upbringing and professional background allow her to blend international spa trends with deep respect for Saudi traditions. Educational Evolution: Kadoon Academy provides formal training and certification, creating a pipeline for local spa professionals—a critical step as global hotel brands expand in the Kingdom. Cultural Adaptation & Innovation: From hijab-friendly scalp care to heritage-inspired treatments using quartz and sand beds, local needs are redefining spa experiences. Wellness as National Strategy: Wellness tourism is rising fast, especially within mega-projects like Neom and Red Sea Global. Regulatory bodies are updating rapidly to support innovation. Staffing Solutions: With challenges in recruiting trained staff, the academy helps “grow local talent,” focusing on long-term workforce sustainability. Vision for the Future: Saudi Arabia's diverse geography and heritage are being leveraged for holistic, high-impact wellness tourism offerings.

Host Lisa Starr sits down with Leah Crump, founder of Leah Crump Consulting and author of the forthcoming book Be Well, Do Well, in this inspiring episode of the StarrCast Podcast. A trailblazer in spa consulting, Leah shares her unique path from the treatment room to global wellness consulting and authorship. With a deep focus on healing, authentic leadership, and sustainable business practices, Leah opens up about the realities of the consulting world, the burnout epidemic in wellness leadership, and how she's helping shape the next generation of consultants through her mastermind course. She also offers an inside look at her new book, which aims to blend practical guidance, personal storytelling, and soulful strategy. Whether you're a spa director, a wellness entrepreneur, or just curious about the evolving world of wellness, this episode is rich with professional insight, heartfelt reflection, and powerful lessons on how to “be well and do well.” About the Guest: Leah Crump Founder of Leah Crump Consulting, specializing in spa and wellness development and operational strategy. Creator of a Spa Consulting Mastermind course. Author of Be Well, Do Well, a field guide to healing work, lasting leadership, and defining success on your own terms. Known for blending operational precision with soulful leadership and visionary creativity. Key Takeaways: Why great spa consultants are equal parts problem-solvers, artists, and guides. How “soft power” and feminine leadership can positively impact hospitality and wellness. Tips for avoiding burnout and embracing balance as a wellness professional. How Leah structured and self-published her first book—and what others can learn from that journey. Predictions for the future of wellness: from tech-touch balance to community-focused "third places."

In this powerful episode of The StarrCast Podcast, host Lisa Starr sits down with Lindsay Madden-Nadeau, Senior Director of Wellness Strategy for Red Sea Global, to explore one of the most ambitious hospitality and wellness developments in the world. From her beginnings in luxury hospitality to leading wellness vision for giga-projects like Amaala and Red Sea, Lindsay offers insights into the massive transformation taking place in Saudi Arabia's wellness tourism sector. With candor and vision, Lindsay shares how Saudi's Vision 2030 is reshaping global tourism, why Amaala is set to become the world's most comprehensive wellness destination, and how wellness is being designed from the ground up — with cultural sensitivity, sustainability, and commercial strategy at the core. Guest Highlights: Lindsay Madden-Nadeau began in luxury hospitality and clinical massage therapy and rose through major global hotel groups including Fairmont, Accor, and Banyan Tree. Founded Meraki Bespoke Wellness Strategies in France before joining Red Sea Global. Now leads the wellness strategy for over 30 luxury hotels and 12 dedicated wellness brands across Saudi's Red Sea giga-projects. Key Takeaways: What is Red Sea Global? A government-backed developer responsible for Saudi's giga projects, including Amaala and Red Sea Projects. Wellness Beyond Spas: From coral regeneration and solar-powered staff villages to culturally rooted wellness rituals, Lindsay emphasizes that wellness isn't inserted — it's embedded.

In this enlightening episode of The StarrCast Podcast, host Lisa Starr welcomes wellness visionary Belgin Aksoy, the founder of Global Wellness Day. From her beginnings in the Turkish hospitality industry to the creation of a worldwide movement touching over a billion lives, Belgin shares the deeply personal journey that led to the birth of Global Wellness Day—and the unstoppable passion that continues to drive it. Listeners will hear how a cancer diagnosis at age 29 sparked a transformation not only in Belgin's own life but in the wellness journeys of people around the globe. With a mission rooted in gratitude, simplicity, and service, Belgin reveals the surprising origins of Global Wellness Day and how it's grown from a small hotel event to a massive celebration in 170 countries. This episode is a must-listen for spa professionals, wellness entrepreneurs, and anyone interested in turning personal insight into global impact. Key Takeaways The origin story of Global Wellness Day started with a personal health crisis and a mysterious inner calling. True wellness is not about perfection, but balance—and it's accessible to all, regardless of status or income. The event is founded on volunteerism and authenticity, operating without a formal organization or profit model. Global Wellness Day encourages simple, impactful actions through its 7-Step Manifesto, such as drinking more water, walking more, and doing a good deed. The movement's annual theme—"Reconnect Magenta"—reminds us to reconnect with ourselves, our community, and nature.

In this insightful episode of The StarrCast Podcast, host Lisa Starr welcomes two industry leaders—Tony Nicastro, Senior Global Manager of Spa & Fitness at Marriott, and Derek Hofmann, Senior Director of Spa & Wellness at Four Seasons— for a deep dive into the evolving practice of yield management in spas. Once a foreign concept in wellness, dynamic pricing is now gaining traction as spas seek to balance rising demand, staffing challenges, and revenue growth. Drawing on years of leadership in global hospitality, Tony and Derek explore how spas can apply airline-style pricing to spa appointments, the technology that supports this shift, how to implement it without guest pushback, and how it's even enhancing guest satisfaction. With practical takeaways, real-world examples, and forward-looking strategies, this episode is a must-listen for spa leaders ready to evolve their pricing models and maximize profitability. Key Takeaways: Yield management is underutilized in spas—yet it's perfectly suited to spa services due to time-sensitive, limited inventory. Technology now enables flexible pricing based on day, time, utilization, and demand—automatically and without manual input. Guest satisfaction may improve, not decline, under dynamic pricing, by offering better access and clarity. Staff compensation strategies must evolve in tandem, balancing fairness, motivation, and profit. Online booking systems encourage upselling and reduce pressure on front desk teams. Dynamic availability (managing service duration) is another tool to optimize flow and elevate guest experience. Cultural and operational differences affect adoption across global markets, but the momentum is growing. Guest Highlights: Tony Nicastro brings a global view from Marriott's vast portfolio, where he's helped pioneer dynamic spa pricing practices across North America. His data-driven approach blends guest psychology, technology integration, and measurable ROI. Derek Hofmann helps to shape wellness strategy for Four Seasons and shares candid insights into market variability, team adoption challenges, and why dynamic pricing isn't just about profit—it's about elevating the guest journey.

In this inspiring episode of The StarrCast Podcast, host Lisa Starr sits down with Vivienne Tang, founder and CEO of Destination Deluxe, a luxury wellness and travel company, to explore the dynamic world of wellness retreats. Vivienne shares her journey from fashion publishing to becoming a global thought leader in wellness travel, offering insider perspectives on the evolution of wellness experiences, the essential elements that make retreats transformative, and how travelers are seeking more profound, meaningful experiences beyond traditional spa services. Whether you're a spa professional, wellness entrepreneur, or simply wellness-curious, this episode offers a compelling deep dive into where the industry is headed—and how you can tap into it. About Vivienne Tang Founder & CEO of Destination Deluxe, a leading online magazine and platform for curated wellness and luxury travel. Former Editor of Asia Spa Magazine and co-owner of The Sanctuary, a holistic wellness center in Hong Kong. Vivienne is recognized worldwide for her expertise in wellness retreats, and is often called upon by top hotels and resorts to consult on designing wellness programs. Key Takeaways The Rise of Wellness Retreats: How consumer needs shifted from spa services to holistic, transformative experiences. Authenticity Matters: The importance of genuine programming, expert practitioners, and personalized guest experiences. What to Expect: A breakdown of typical retreat structures—consultations, activities, food, and digital detox strategies. Medical Meets Wellness: How biohacking and preventative medicine are blending with traditional wellness practices. Building a Successful Retreat: Essentials like customized guidance, community building, connection to nature, and standout culinary offerings. The Ongoing Journey: How retreats offer a gateway, but true wellness is a lifelong path—not a one-week fix. Visit our website Connect with me on LinkedIn Watch StarrCast episodes and other useful content on YouTube

In this episode of The StarrCast Podcast, Lisa Starr speaks with James Gu, Director of Spa and Wellness for Equinox, and Greg Kasparian, founder of The Creek Retreat in Serenbe, Georgia. The episode, recorded live at the We Work Well spa event at Chateau Elan, offers a dual perspective on the future of wellness.  James discusses how Equinox is evolving its spa offerings across over 90 properties with a focus on performance, biohacking, and accessibility. Greg shares his journey from the supplier side of the industry to launching a cutting-edge wellness facility based on intention, technology, and personal reinvention.  This episode reveals how two leaders are shaping wellness spaces that respond to modern health demands, staffing limitations, and shifting consumer expectations. Why It Matters: As wellness merges with fitness and personal optimization, both guests demonstrate how vision, adaptability, and innovation are crucial to staying ahead in a rapidly evolving industry. Key Takeaways: The future of spa is rooted in performance, personalization, and technology-driven recovery. Equinox is shifting from one-size-fits-all spa models to specialized tiers and touchless modalities. The Creek Retreat embodies a deeply personal reinvention of wellness care, offering hyperbaric therapy, red light, cryotherapy, and pain-relieving SoftWave technology. Biohacking, longevity, and stress regulation are top wellness trends guiding design and service innovation. “Rewirement” is the new retirement: wellness entrepreneurship as a second act. Other Topics:  Hyperbaric oxygen therapy Cryotherapy Red light therapy Wellness retreats Biohacking Vibroacoustics Recovery labs Touchless therapy Healthspan Visit our website Connect with me on LinkedIn Watch StarrCast episodes and other useful content on YouTube

Live from FIBO Part 2 of 2; Longevity Center CEO Joanna Bensz discusses her Center's focus on expanding preventive health and lifestyle optimization and László Puczkó, Hospitality and Wellbeing Strategist, advises on incorporating true wellness activities into your business model. Event organizers Andrew Gibson and Sven Huckenbeck comment on the many innovative takeaways of the Spa & Wellness International Day.

Live from FIBO, the largest fitness show in the world, we're sharing excerpts from the Spa & Wellness International Day, where expert speakers shared innovative business models integrating longevity and wellness with hospitality and membership. This episode, part one of two, features Andrew Gibson, Oliver Patrick of Pillar Wellbeing, and Claire Bourne of Eden One.

Live from LEC Innovation Summit: industry veteran operators Maggy Dunphy and Tammy Pahel share thoughts on the current state of the wellness industry and future innovation, including touchless wellness options.

Live from the Health & Fitness Association's annual conference, three panelists from different corners of the world discuss how their innovative business models are redefining what it means to be well, and why they're quickly becoming the go-to destinations for individuals seeking comprehensive, transformative health experiences that promote physical recovery, mental clarity, and emotional well-being. Featuring Emili Hernandez, of Inner Flow, Daniel Stickler of The Covery, and Matthew Riemann of ShaeFit.

Every year, wellness is included on more trend lists from popular publications and thought leaders, but it can be difficult to discern a trend from a fad. Business management has to navigate these forecasts to ensure their business is providing options that are sought after, but not too far ahead of the curve. Jessica Shea, VP of Wellness, Retail and Leisure Operations for Hilton Americas, helps us to find the practical applications in the haystack.

Africa is a continent rich with indigenous wellness rituals and unique botanicals, but growing the wellness industry within Africa is a challenge on many levels. Mariane Akwenye of NomadSpa and Michelle Saudan of Amanzi Wellbeing, Chair and Vice-Chair of the African Wellness Initiative from GWI, are passionate about the continent's history and culture and determined to spread the word globally.

Chiropractor and Concierge Wellness Doctor Jonathan Leary recognized the need among patients for an opportunity to participate in holistic healing activities that did not feel isolated, and the idea for Remedy Place was born. On the cusp of opening their 4th location, Dr. Leary discusses the journey so far and his vision for the future of this new and exciting business model.

Entrepreneur Jennifer Pahl took a yoga class and said, I can do this too! Using a practical approach, Jennifer shares her journey from idea to studio owner, yoga instructor, and yoga studio business coach, creating a vibrant Twist-Yoga community along the way.

What's ahead this year in wellness? The eagerly awaited annual Global Wellness Summit Trend report, released live in NYC, sheds light on how to position and market our wellness businesses for the future. We spoke with journalists and attendees Heather Mikesell, Jennifer Walsh, Sandra Sadowski, Francisco Lugo and Sallie Fraenkel for their expert opinions and first impressions. Learn more details here on the GWS site.

The world watched in horror as the recent L.A. wildfires engulfed neighborhoods, businesses and lives. Local wellness professionals Kim Marshall, Catherine Dambrosia and Sparrow Harrington share their first-hand stories of destruction and sorrow, with hope for the future. For ideas on how to help, please visit: https://www.gofundme.com/c/act/wildfire-relief/california, https://www.gofundme.com/f/berosygofundme, https://www.lafoodbank.org/donate/disaster-relief, www.redcross.org/donate/donation.html        

Charging ahead with continued 7% growth, the global wellness economy continues to roll along. Global Wellness Institute Senior Research Fellows Ophelia Yeung and Katherine Johnston share some of the stories behind the numbers, and what is fueling this continued growth and consumer interest in wellness.

Yoga has never been more popular, and yet many studios still struggle to survive. International yoga business consultant and Yogapreneur Josh Biro shares some of the tactics and strategies required for long-term success in a class-based business model.

Wellness is difficult to define, and yet global brands build their reputations on standards and consistency. The visionary Michael Newcombe, VP of Wellness for Four Seasons Hotels & Resorts globally, shares some of the unique elements that define Four Seasons spa and wellness experiences across 100+ properties in 44 countries.

Music is an important component of everyday life for many of us, pacing our actions and accompanying our activities, and has always been a crucial component of a well-rounded spa experience. We are fortunate to hear from Freddie Moross, Founder of Myndstream, which has made playing a wide assortment of purpose-built and royalty-free music easy for spa and wellness businesses globally.

Live from the Global Wellness Summit, the premier global gathering of wellness professionals, industry leaders Cathy Chon, Dr. Marc Cohen, Don Genders, Erin Lee and Charles Davidson share their insights on the wellness industry for 2025.

Recorded live at the We Work Well Spa hosted buyer event in La Jolla, CA, Spa Gregories owner Scott Duncan and Spa Director of Renaissance Birmingham Ross Bridge Golf & Spa Resort Tracy Harper discuss market conditions they are seeing in their regions, and what they think the next year will bring.

Sauna and bathhouses are the hottest (pun intended!) topics in spa & wellness right now, and no business is hotter than Othership. Co-founder and CEO Robbie Bent shares the story of the amazing growth of the business, from his back yard to the newly opened 3rd location in Manhattan, and what he sees as the future of contrast therapy.

Have you incorporated generative AI into your life yet? We'll dive into how AI is being incorporated in the design, operations and fitness realms of the spa and wellness industry. Listen in as Vishal Patel of Sensei, Toby Ward of DFL and Enrico Manaresi from Technogym share how they are using AI to help their businesses work smarter and face the future. Hosted by the Consulting Initiative of the Global Wellness Institute.

China's growth may have slowed recently, but it is still a force to be reckoned with. Second in the world in both population and economic might, the growing middle class in China is continuing to fuel interest in spa & wellness. Recorded live at the 2024 Spa China Summit, Johnny Chang of Spa Solutions TM, Laura Gamboa of Natura Bisse, and Yvonne Cheung of PA Wellness Consultancy share their first-hand views of the domestic spa industry.

Technology evolution continues; the long-awaited Aescape system for robotic massage is coming soon to a spa or wellness center near you! Join us to hear about the 7+ years behind the development of this amazing device from SVP of Product Alex Linde and Paul Nunez, Director of Partnerships. Meant to augment hands-on treatments, the Aescape system gives a remarkably human massage. And it never calls in sick!

This global capital of 9 million is revered as a bastion of tradition and is home to some of the most iconic hotels in the world, but the recent strong growth in hospitality and wellness facilities brings more new properties and modern concepts to the marketplace. Hattie David-Wilkinson, Director of Spa for Claridges Hotel, and Taffryn Ellis Kinsey, Director of Wellness for Six Senses London, share their insights on the local market, trends and outlook post-Brexit.

Spa and wellness businesses have been operating at capacity since post-pandemic, but is there an economic slow-down on the horizon? We gain insights from Patrick McDirmit, VP at Trilogy Spa Holdings, Lynn Curry of Curry Spa Consulting, and Derek Hofmann, Senior Director of Spa Four Seasons, on what these seasoned executives are seeing firsthand in the multiple spas they are responsible for. Recorded live at We Work Well Spa North America, at the Hyatt Regency Coconut Point. 

Now that the pandemic is in the rear-view mirror, and touchless wellness and recovery services are steaming ahead, we check-in with renowned architect Robert Henry, Founder and Principal of wellness architecture firm RDHA, and spa, wellness & leisure facility designer Bryan Dunkelberger of S3 Design, for tips on the latest design trends and concepts in the field.

Leading teams in any discipline requires energy. But so often, our reserves are depleted by the demands of daily living. As the spa & wellness industry strives to create relaxing havens for guests and fulfilling work for staff, we have to be the masters of creating balanced energy in the workplace. Five leaders from across EMEA share their tips and strategies for maintaining the energy level of both themselves, and their teams, while creating serene environments. Recorded live at We Work Well Spa EMEA; Sardinia May 2024

While it may be a gaming mecca, Las Vegas is also a spa & wellness mecca, home to many of the largest and most elaborate facilities in the US. Current Director of Spa & Wellness for Fontainbleau Las Vegas, local spa maven Jennifer Lynn, has helmed many of these world-class locations and shares the method behind the magic of wowing clients in a city with a wow a minute.

How does one become a saunameister, and what is involved in that role? We visit with the world-renowned Lasse Eriksen, Development Manager for FarrisBad, who not only leads a team of 10 sauna masters at FarrisBad, he also heads up the Norwegian Sauna Association, is Vice President of Aufguss WM, a Board Member of ISA, and a global spokesperson for the many health benefits of sauna culture.

You know those beautiful spreads of spas and hotels in glossy magazines? We speak with Angelina Villa-Clarke and Nicole Trilivas, who are writing many of them for Forbes, Travel & Leisure, The Robb Report, and more! These women have the job of a lifetime; they travel the world visiting luxury properties and trying out the amenities. We gain their perspective on what they look for in their spa and wellness experiences, what is a turnoff, and what trends they are seeing across the globe.

Scandinavia is often equated with saunas and contrast therapy, but it was always done individually; it is only of late that communal experiences have become more common. Travel with me to Norway as I visit the amazing water palace spa & hotel The Well and chat with Asst. GM Annete Ose, survive a Celtic Sweat Lodge ceremony at Farris Bad with Tim Jago, and meet with Ragna Marie Fjeld, a founder of the Oslo Sauna Association, which is bringing affordable sauna to the people!

As the worlds of hospitality, fitness and wellness continue to converge, we welcome the first fitness hotel, SIRO, from Kerzner International, debuting in Dubai. A hotel created for both leisure and business travelers who want to maintain their healthy routines while traveling, the five pillars of SIRO, fitness, nutrition, sleep, recovery and mindfulness, are evident throughout the property. We talk with the Recovery Lab Manager, Julie Amos, and Staff Clinical Dietician Heeral Shivnani about what makes SIRO special.      

With so many digital business promotion methods available, is it really necessary to have a website anymore? Connie Holen, Owner and Founder of Pixality Design, designs websites for wellness, fitness and yoga businesses, and shares her tips and tricks for effective web design and SEO practices, resulting in business promotion for both known and prospective clients.

Calculating the value of 11 different wellness industry sectors which total $5.6Trillion is no easy feat! Meet the knowledgeable leaders of the Global Wellness Institute research team, whose experience and determination make this feat a reality. Ophelia Yeung and Katherine Johnston have spent the last 10 years providing perspective and scope so the rest of us can better understand our specific sectors, and the multitude of business possibilities before us, as the industry is forecast to grow another 52% by 2027!

No wellness industry trend report carries more weight than the GWS Future of Wellness. Recorded live at the press event unveiling in NYC, hear the 2024 trends accompanied by illuminating thoughts and opinions on the trends from some of the attending journalists and experts. You'll hear from Jonathan Leary, Remedy Place; Sara Jones, Spa & Wellness Mexicaribe; Erica Huss, All Too Well Media; Joe Holder, GQ Magazine; Heather Mikesell, Well Defined; Cathy Chon, Finn Partners; Jane Kitchen, Spa Business, and Mia Kyricos, Kyricos & Assoc. Order your copy of the report here. 

Sven Huckenbeck earned his Masters in Sports Science before venturing into the spa & hospitality world, so he possesses a unique skill set as both a business operator and a body technician. Currently the Spa Director at Inspiration Spa at Das Konig Ludwig Hotel in Bavaria, Sven discusses the creation of his BioBalance system for maintaining optimal physical and mental health.

We know consumers seek wellness in the general sense, but decided to dig down into trenches to learn how those desires are manifesting within the treatment room. We speak with celebrity esthetician and skincare expert Pietro Simone, massage expert Nicole Chryst, and Alisa and Mike McGlothlin, award-winning owners of an Ageless Fitness franchise, on what they're hearing from clients.

Among the estimated 180k spas in the world, massage therapy is universally the #1 requested service. And yet, post-COVID, few spas are operating with the desired number of massage therapists. John Morris, Corporate Director of Wisconsin's Sundara Spa, and Service Director Cassandra Stratton from Chicagoland's Mario Tricoci chain of spa/salons, share some innovative approaches to this ongoing challenge to revenue and profits.