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What if the spa experience isn't actually improving well-being, but simply creating a pleasant moment? In this episode of StarrCast, we explore the shift from traditional customer experience to true wellbeing experience design (WX), and what it means to create measurable, lasting impact for guests. What You'll Learn Why many wellness experiences fail to create meaningful, lasting outcomes The difference between customer experience (CX) and wellbeing experience (WX) How designing for outcomes, not just delivery, changes everything Why personalization, cultural awareness, and emotional engagement are essential A new way to measure success through Net Wellbeing Score (NWS) instead of traditional metrics Episode Highlights  02:05 – Are spa experiences truly improving well-being or just creating moments? 05:58 – The gap between service delivery and guest outcomes 11:20 – The shift toward transformation and long-term wellness expectations 20:22 – Designing experiences for impact, not just satisfaction 31:41 – The role of emotional engagement and multi-sensory design 43:17 – Well-being vs. longevity and what guests actually want 52:32 – Moving beyond Net Promoter Score to Net Wellbeing Score Meet the Guests Laszlo Puczko and Melanie Smith are co-founders of HTWW Life and globally recognized experts in health, wellness, and tourism strategy. With decades of research and advisory experience, they bring a forward-thinking perspective on how the industry must evolve to deliver meaningful well-being outcomes. Tools, Frameworks, or Strategies Mentioned Wellbeing Experience Design (WX) Net Wellbeing Score (NWS) Holistic guest journey mapping (pre, during, and post experience) Multi-sensory and culturally informed experience design Closing Insight A beautiful spa experience is no longer enough. Today's guest is looking for something deeper, something measurable, and something that lasts. The future of wellness lies not in what is delivered, but in what is truly felt and sustained long after the visit ends. Looking for expert advice in Spa Consulting, with live training and online learning? Spa Consulting Live Training Online Learning Other Links: Connect with HTWW Life Connect with Laszlo Puczko  Connect with Melanie Smith Follow Lisa on LinkedIn Listen or Watch StarrCast Podcast on Your Preferred Platform or YouTube Join us on Facebook Join us on Instagram  

What does it really mean to design for transformation, not just relaxation? In this episode, we explore how intentional spaces, technology, and human-centered design can shift behavior, deepen self-awareness, and redefine the future of wellness. What You'll Learn Why transformation is the next evolution beyond traditional wellness experiences How intentional design can influence physical, emotional, and behavioral change The role of technology when it is used with purpose, not distraction How to balance science, spirituality, and sensory experience in wellness spaces Why doing "one thing well" is more powerful than chasing every trend Episode Highlights  00:00 – Introducing Ramy Elnagar and the concept of wellbeing innovation 04:00 – What "White Mirror" means and the shift from dystopia to intentional design 12:30 – How music, neuroscience, and technology intersect in wellness 20:00 – Designing immersive experiences that move beyond relaxation 31:00 – The problem with wellness trends and how to think long-term 40:00 – Creating transformation through sleep, sound, and sensory design 47:30 – Why focusing on one core offering creates stronger impact 52:00 – The future of wellness: balancing technology, ritual, and human connection Meet the Guest Ramy Elnagar is a wellbeing innovation strategist and founder of White Mirror Studio. His work sits at the intersection of technology, design, and human transformation, helping brands create experiences that go beyond wellness into meaningful behavioral change. Tools, Frameworks, or Strategies Mentioned The "Rule of One" approach to wellness strategy Transformation vs. relaxation design model Sensory-driven environments and immersive sound experiences Ritual design and intentional space creation Closing Insight True wellness is not just about feeling better in the moment. It is about leaving a space different than when you entered it. When design, technology, and intention align, transformation becomes possible. Looking for expert advice in Spa Consulting, with live training and online learning? Spa Consulting Live Training Online Learning Other Links: Connect with Ramy Follow Lisa on LinkedIn Listen or Watch StarrCast Podcast on Your Preferred Platform or YouTube Join us on Facebook Join us on Instagram  

What if one of the most requested services in the spa industry is also one of the most misunderstood? In this episode of StarrCast, we explore how maternity massage goes far beyond relaxation and becomes a powerful tool for supporting pregnancy, birth, and postpartum recovery. Lisa Starr sits down with Sparrow Harrington, founder of Sparrow's Nest Massage, to uncover how specialized, evidence-based bodywork can transform the maternal experience, reduce stress, and improve outcomes for both mother and baby. What You'll Learn Why maternity massage is more than a "special occasion" service and should be part of ongoing care How structured, therapeutic touch supports nervous system regulation and pregnancy outcomes The difference between standard prenatal massage and clinically-informed, structural bodywork How massage can support fertility, labor preparation, and postpartum recovery Why positioning, technique, and therapist training dramatically impact results Episode Highlights 03:20 – Sparrow's journey from alternative health to maternity massage specialization 08:01 – The Carol Osborne method and evidence-based prenatal bodywork 13:54 – Why first trimester care is often overlooked but critically important 16:51 – The ideal cadence for massage throughout pregnancy 19:10 – Induction massage and the role of nervous system readiness 24:20 – Postpartum recovery, C-section care, and functional healing 33:14 – What is Mercier Therapy and how it supports fertility 42:20 – Building a specialty practice and shifting client mindset toward ongoing care Meet the Guest Sparrow Harrington is a pre- and perinatal massage therapist, educator, and founder of Sparrow's Nest Massage in Pasadena. She is an authorized instructor of the Carol Osborne Method and specializes in fertility, pregnancy, and postpartum bodywork. Tools, Frameworks, or Strategies Mentioned Carol Osborne Method for pre- and perinatal massage Rhythmic deep tissue sculpting Mercier Therapy for fertility support Structured maternity care plans for consistent treatment Closing Insight Consistent, intentional care during pregnancy is not a luxury. It is a powerful way to support the body's natural intelligence, reduce stress, and create better outcomes for both mother and baby. Looking for expert advice in Spa Consulting, with live training and online learning? Spa Consulting Live Training Online Learning Other Links: Connect with Sparrow Follow Lisa on LinkedIn Listen or Watch StarrCast Podcast on Your Preferred Platform or YouTube Join us on Facebook Join us on Instagram  

What if the future of hospitality is designed not just for comfort, but for recovery, performance, and longevity?  In this episode of StarrCast, we explore how wellness is evolving from a single amenity into a fully integrated, property-wide strategy that shapes how guests feel, function, and live. What You'll Learn Why wellness must be embedded into hotel development from the earliest stages How sleep optimization, circadian lighting, and sound design impact guest recovery The role of nutrition, neurogastronomy, and food-as-medicine in hospitality How wellness technology enables scalable, high-impact guest experiences Why longevity is emerging as a defining framework for the future of wellness travel Episode Highlights 03:20 – The hidden toll of travel and why recovery is now essential 07:15 – The shift from spa-centric wellness to full-property integration 12:20 – Why wellness must be part of the initial concept, not an afterthought 18:10 – The evolution of spa into recovery and longevity-focused environments 25:00 – How guest room design influences sleep, lighting, and performance 36:00 – The rise of wellness technology and multimodal experiences 45:10 – Longevity as both a guest expectation and a revenue strategy 52:15 – What it means for a guest to "feel better than when they arrived" Meet the Guest Adam Mogelonsky is a hospitality strategist and partner at Hotel Mogel Consulting. With a background spanning life sciences, fitness, and luxury hotel consulting, he advises developers and operators on integrating wellness, design, and revenue strategy into modern hospitality experiences. Tools, Frameworks, or Strategies Mentioned Multimodal wellness experiences Circadian lighting and sleep optimization Neurogastronomy and mood-based menu design Touchless wellness technology (red light therapy, PEMF, cryotherapy) Longevity-driven hospitality programming Closing Insight Wellness in hospitality is no longer about offering a spa. It is about creating an ecosystem where every detail—from the food on the plate to the light in the room—supports how a guest feels, recovers, and performs. Subscribe for more conversations about wellness, hospitality strategy, and the future of the spa and wellness business. Looking for expert advice in Spa Consulting, with live training and online learning? Spa Consulting Live Training Online Learning Other Links: Connect with Adam Follow Lisa on LinkedIn Listen or Watch StarrCast Podcast on Your Preferred Platform or YouTube Join us on Facebook Join us on Instagram  

What does resilience really look like in today's fast-moving wellness industry? In this episode, Kay Pennington shares how leaders can stay grounded, connected, and authentic while navigating pressure, growth, and constant change. This conversation explores the deeper side of leadership, where emotional intelligence, self-awareness, and personal values shape long-term success. What You'll Learn Why resilience is the foundation of sustainable leadership and long-term performance How identity and self-awareness influence leadership effectiveness in spa and wellness environments The role of emotional intelligence in building trust, connection, and team alignment Practical ways to prevent burnout and reconnect with purpose in high-pressure roles How leaders can create stronger teams through communication, values, and authenticity Episode Highlights 03:00 – Kay's journey from beauty therapy to leadership and entrepreneurship 08:45 – What resilience really means in a fast-paced wellness career 14:20 – The connection between identity, values, and leadership success 21:10 – Why burnout happens and how to recognize early signs 29:35 – Emotional intelligence and communication in leadership roles 37:50 – Building trust and connection within teams 45:15 – Practical tools to reconnect with purpose and personal strength Meet the Guest Kay Pennington, Founder of Resilience and Power, is a leadership coach and wellness industry expert who helps individuals and teams build resilience, strengthen emotional intelligence, and lead with authenticity. Closing Insight Resilience is not about pushing harder. It is about understanding who you are, what you value, and how you lead with intention in moments that challenge you most. Looking for expert advice in Spa Consulting, with live training and online learning? Spa Consulting Live Training Online Learning Other Links: Connect with Kay Follow Lisa on LinkedIn Listen or Watch StarrCast Podcast on Your Preferred Platform or YouTube Join us on Facebook Join us on Instagram  

What if longevity was not about living longer, but about living with greater energy, resilience, and purpose? In this episode of Starrcast Podcast, Lisa Starr speaks with Dr. George Gaitanos, Chief Operating and Scientific Officer of Chenot Group, about the science and philosophy behind the Chenot Method. Drawing on decades of experience in sports physiology, metabolism, and elite athletic performance, Dr. Gaitanos explains how health can be trained, restored, and strengthened through detoxification, recovery, and intentional lifestyle practices. What You'll Learn Why health should be trained like a muscle, not treated only when disease appears How the Chenot Method combines Western medicine and Traditional Chinese Medicine The science behind detoxification, calorie restriction, and metabolic recovery Why recovery—not performance—is the real foundation of longevity How controlled stress can activate the body's natural repair mechanisms Episode Highlights *]:pointer-events-auto scroll-mt-[calc(var(--header-height)+min(200px,max(70px,20svh)))]" dir="auto" data-turn-id= "request-WEB:bc936702-ecd3-41e9-99eb-9defb43316d4-1" data-testid= "conversation-turn-2" data-scroll-anchor="true" data-turn= "assistant"> 03:20 – Dr. Gaitanos' journey from Olympic athletes to longevity science 07:15 – Why wellness is more than massages or green juice 12:20 – The philosophy behind the Chenot Method and detoxification 18:10 – The five pillars of the Chenot wellness approach 25:00 – The science of fasting, metabolism, and cellular renewal 36:00 – How sleep, circadian rhythms, and environment influence longevity 45:10 – Why recovery is more important than performance 52:15 – Daily habits that support vitality and long-term health Meet the Guest George C. Gaitanos, PhD is Chief Operating and Scientific Officer of the Chenot Group and the successor of Henri Chenot. An expert in energy metabolism and recovery, he has more than 35 years of experience in human performance and optimal health. Dr. Gaitanos previously worked with elite athletes including NBA players and Olympic competitors and now leads the continued development of the Chenot Method within the global health and wellness sector. Tools, Frameworks, or Strategies Mentioned The Chenot Method Controlled detoxification and metabolic reset Fast-mimicking nutrition programs Hydrotherapy and thermal stress protocols Lifestyle biomarkers and vitality assessment Closing Insight Health is not simply the absence of disease. It is something we actively build through daily habits, recovery, and resilience.   Looking for expert advice in Spa Consulting, with live training and online learning? Spa Consulting Live Training Online Learning Other Links: Connect with George Follow Lisa on LinkedIn Listen or Watch StarrCast Podcast on Your Preferred Platform or YouTube Join us on Facebook Join us on Instagram          

What will the future of wellness look like in the next decade? In this episode of StarrCast, Susie Ellis joins the conversation to unpack the Global Wellness Trends Report and explore the forces shaping the global wellness economy. From women's longevity medicine and neural wellness to the rise of longevity residences and the growing concern over microplastics, this discussion reveals where the wellness industry is heading and what it means for spa, hospitality, and health leaders. Listeners will gain a deeper understanding of emerging wellness business trends, preventative health strategies, and how global shifts in longevity science, community wellness, and technology are influencing the next generation of wellness innovation. What You'll Learn: Why women-focused longevity research is becoming one of the most important developments in health and wellness How the over-optimization backlash is changing the way people interact with wearables, health tracking, and digital wellness tools What neural wellness and nervous system regulation mean for sleep health, stress recovery, and mental resilience How trends like fragrance layering and sensory wellness experiences are reshaping the spa and hospitality environment Why longevity residences and wellness real estate may become a major driver of preventative health and lifestyle design in the future Episode Highlights: 02:00 – How the Global Wellness Summit identifies and predicts emerging wellness Trends 05:00 – Why women are gaining their own lane in longevity science and preventative health 13:40 – The over-optimization backlash and the hidden stress of health tracking devices 23:15 – Neural wellness and why regulating the nervous system is becoming a major focus in wellness 29:30 – Fragrance layering and the rise of sensory identity in wellness environments 36:20 – Why disaster preparedness is becoming part of preventative wellness thinking 41:40 – Skin longevity and the shift away from traditional anti-aging narratives 48:40 – The festivalization of wellness and the rise of social wellness experiences 53:20 – The rapid growth of women's sports and its influence on wellness culture 59:00 – Microplastics and the growing concern around environmental health risks 1:03:15 – Longevity residences and the future of wellness real estate Meet the Guest: Susie Ellis is the CEO and Chairman of the Global Wellness Summit and the Global Wellness Institute. She is one of the most influential voices in the global wellness economy and leads the development of the annual Future of Wellness Trends Report, a widely referenced outlook on emerging wellness innovations and industry shifts. Tools, Frameworks, or Strategies Mentioned: Global Wellness Trends Report Global Wellness Economy research and sector analysis Neural wellness and nervous system regulation practices Longevity medicine and female-focused health research Longevity residences and wellness real estate development Microplastics Watch initiative Closing Insight: The wellness industry is evolving rapidly as longevity science, preventative medicine, and lifestyle design converge. From community-driven wellness experiences to diagnostics integrated into living spaces, the future of health will increasingly focus on helping people live longer, healthier lives.   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 Susie: https://www.linkedin.com/in/susie-ellis/   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 the most important predictor of how well you age is not your bloodwork, but your skeletal muscle mass? In this episode of StarrCast, Lisa Starr sits down with Alexia Brue, Founder and CEO of The Practice, to explore the rise of healthspan based fitness and why strength training may be the most powerful intervention for long term vitality. In this conversation Alexia shares how her journey from co-founding Well+Good to launching The Practice led her to build Greenwich's first personal training studio centered on healthspan, VO2 max, body composition, and measurable fitness biomarkers. Together, they unpack how wellness is evolving from lifestyle aspiration to outcomes driven performance and why proactive strength training is essential for aging well. What You'll Learn: Why healthspan, not just lifespan, should guide your fitness strategy How skeletal muscle mass impacts insulin sensitivity, bone density, brain health, and metabolic resilience What VO2 max and zone training reveal about cardiovascular longevity How undulating periodization improves strength gains and long term muscle development Why reassessment and fitness biomarker tracking are the next evolution of personal training Episode Highlights: 03:18 – How global bathhouse research shaped Alexia's entry into the wellness industry 10:42 – The rise of Well+Good and how digital media legitimized wellness as a business category 18:27 – What healthspan really means and how to "square the curve" of aging 26:55 – Why most midlife women are under muscled and what that means for long term vitality 33:40 – Inside The Practice: one method, five systems, and outcomes driven training 41:12 – VO2 max, zone 2 cardio, and the Norwegian 4x4 protocol explained 47:06 – Why reassessment and accountability redefine modern personal training Meet the Guest: Alexia Brue is the Founder and CEO of The Practice, a personal training studio built around healthspan and measurable fitness outcomes. She is also the co-founder and former CEO of Well+Good, one of the first major digital media platforms dedicated to the business of wellness. Tools, Frameworks, and Strategies Mentioned: Healthspan based training model One Method, Five Systems framework Undulating periodization VO2 max testing and anaerobic power assessment Zone 2 steady state cardio and Zone 4 and 5 metabolic training Norwegian 4x4 cardiovascular protocol Healthspan reporting and reassessment every 24 sessions Closing Insight: As Alexia explains, "Building skeletal muscle mass is upstream of almost everything." When we focus on strength, capability, and measurable fitness biomarkers, we are not chasing optimization for its own sake. We are investing in vibrant years, independence, and resilience. If you care about aging well and living fully into your 80s and 90s, this episode offers a practical roadmap grounded in science and experience.   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 Alexia: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexia-brue-1670618/   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 does it take to build a profitable hydrotherapy spa brand in three different markets and scale it to $10 million in annual revenue? In this episode, Harmony Oschefski and Cedar Hwang share how the bodhi spa grew from a bold idea sparked in Maui to a multi location wellness company rooted in contrast therapy, operational discipline, and community driven growth. We explore how sauna culture, cold plunge therapy, and a thoughtfully designed water journey can become the foundation of a scalable spa business model. This conversation goes beyond wellness trends and dives into infrastructure, financing, Department of Health compliance, maintenance systems, staffing strategy, and brand positioning in a rapidly growing wellness economy. What You'll Learn: How to design a hydrotherapy spa business model that balances water journey revenue with massage and facial services Why contrast therapy and cold plunge trends are only sustainable when supported by serious infrastructure and maintenance systems What it takes to secure SBA financing for a first time concept and how to successfully appeal a denial How to scale from one spa location to three while maintaining brand consistency and operational excellence Why weekly pool draining, state of the art filtration systems, and a dedicated maintenance manager protect long term profitability Episode Highlights: 03:12 – Growing up with sauna culture and cold plunges in Nova Scotia 11:48 – The Maui moment that sparked the bodhi spa business idea 18:27 – Getting denied for SBA financing and how they successfully appealed 26:04 – What a hydrotherapy water journey includes and why contrast therapy works 34:15 – Rebuilding the entire operating model during COVID to satisfy Department of Health requirements 41:22 – Scaling to Providence and Norwood and what changes with each new market 47:36 – Why weekly pool draining and a full time maintenance manager are non negotiable 53:18 – Reaching $10 million in revenue and building infrastructure for long term brand sustainability   Meet the Guests: Harmony Oschefski is Co Owner and Managing Partner of the bodhi spa. With a background in life sciences and functional health, she brings a complementary wellness perspective to spa development and operational strategy. Cedar Hwang is Co Owner and Managing Partner of the bodhi spa and a former 12 meter yacht captain. Her leadership experience and operational discipline inform the systems, staffing, and execution behind the brand's growth. Together, they have built three bodhi spa locations across New England and employ nearly 100 team members. Tools, Frameworks, and Strategies Mentioned: The bodhi spa Water Journey hydrotherapy circuit Contrast therapy using sauna and cold plunge sequencing SBA financing and structured loan appeal strategy Dedicated maintenance management with weekly full system resets Infrastructure first scaling model with General Managers at each location State of the art filtration, HVAC, and pool monitoring systems Gender inclusive design and dual temperature cold plunge strategy Closing Insight: The bodhi spa's growth story shows that the wellness industry rewards both inspiration and precision. Sauna culture and cold plunge therapy may attract attention, but long term success depends on disciplined maintenance, regulatory compliance, staff training, and operational infrastructure. As Harmony shares in the episode, the goal was never just to open a spa. It was to build a company that could stand on its own.   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 the bodhi spa at https://thebodhispa.com/ Connect with the bodhi spa: https://www.instagram.com/thebodhispa/ 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 does it take to turn a life-threatening diagnosis into a global wellness movement? In this powerful episode, Ingo Schweder shares how surviving stage four cancer shaped his vision for wellness, hospitality, longevity, and community-driven health. From launching the Mandarin Oriental Spa Division to building GOCO Hospitality and the Fivelements brand, this conversation explores why wellness is not a trend, but the foundation of the future hospitality economy. What You'll Learn: How a stage four cancer diagnosis became the catalyst for a global wellness hospitality career Why wellness is not a department, but a philosophy and a lifestyle What it takes to build and scale a global spa and wellness division from scratch The business case for wellness hospitality during crises like 9 11 and the pandemic Why longevity clinics, precision medicine, and community based wellness real estate are shaping the next chapter of the industry Episode Highlights: 03:15 – From journalist to hotelier to cancer survivor: the turning point that changed everything 11:40 – Creating a personal healing protocol using yoga, macrobiotic nutrition, meditation, and alternative medicine 19:55 – Launching the Mandarin Oriental Spa Division when no global spa model existed 29:10 – Founding GOCO Hospitality and identifying wellness as a standalone business segment 38:45 – Turning around Glen Ivy and why ownership changed the game 47:20 – The rise of Fivelements and the future of branded destination wellness resorts 54:30 – Why longevity, precision medicine, and biohacking are the next evolution of wellness Meet the Guest: Ingo Schweder is Founder and CEO of GOCO Hospitality and Managing Director of Horwath HTL Health & Wellness. With projects across five continents and more than 400 developments worldwide, he is widely recognized as a pioneer in wellness hospitality, destination spa development, and wellness real estate. Tools, Frameworks, and Concepts Mentioned Mandarin Oriental global spa division development GOCO Hospitality five pillar model: feasibility, concept and brand development, design and technical services, pre opening and training, and ongoing management Fivelements branded destination wellness resorts Wellness real estate and community driven development Longevity clinics and precision medicine integration within hospitality Closing Insight: "The world does not need more five star hotels. It needs five star human experiences." This episode is a reminder that wellness hospitality is not about amenities. It is about creating environments that improve health, extend vitality, and contribute meaningfully to society.   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 Ingo: linkedin.com/in/ingoschweder   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

Why does everyone suddenly want to open a bathhouse, and why is design the make or break factor? In this episode of StarrCast, we unpack the real drivers behind the bathhouse and social wellness boom and explore what it actually takes to design a space that is viable, code compliant, and built to last. Host Lisa Starr sits down with three global experts to break down bathhouse design from the inside out, covering infrastructure, flow, hygiene, materials, mechanical systems, and guest experience. This conversation is essential listening for anyone exploring social wellness, hydrothermal spaces, or large scale spa development. What You'll Lear: Why bathhouses and social wellness clubs are resurging in North America and globally The biggest design and infrastructure mistakes new bathhouse owners make How water, ventilation, mechanical systems, and waterproofing drive cost and feasibility What "flow" really means in bathhouse design and how it impacts revenue and safety How hygiene, maintenance, and guest perception influence long term success Episode Highlights: 03:14 – Why bathhouses are booming and what is actually driving demand 09:42 – Social wellness clubs vs traditional spas and why the distinction matters 16:30 – When to talk about budget and why early education is critical 24:18 – Water, drainage, ventilation, and mechanical systems you cannot ignore 34:06 – Hygiene, health codes, and how guests judge cleanliness instantly 44:21 – Designing for flow, capacity, and the full guest journey 53:10 – Quiet vs social spaces and how design shapes behavior Meet the Guests: Ali McQuaid Founder and Creative Director of Future Studio, a Toronto based interior design firm focused on forward thinking spaces that respond to evolving lifestyles and wellness needs. Alberto Carrillo Senior Associate at Meridian Design in New York City, specializing in architectural planning, code compliance, and complex wellness environments. Don Genders Founder and CEO of Design for Leisure, a global leader in designing award winning hydrothermal spa and social wellness environments. Tools, Frameworks, or Strategies Mentioned: Social wellness club design models Hydrothermal and bathing infrastructure planning Mechanical, electrical, and plumbing coordination for wet environments Capacity and egress analysis for bathhouse safety Long term maintenance and hygiene planning Closing Insight: "Design the purpose, not the code." This episode makes one thing clear. Successful bathhouses are not built on aesthetics alone. They are built on deep technical planning, realistic budgets, and a clear understanding of how people move, gather, and care for shared wellness spaces.   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: Ali McQuaid: linkedin.com/in/ali-mcquaid-67b24316 Alberto Carrillo: https://www.linkedin.com/in/albertocarrillod/ Don Genders: linkedin.com/in/don-genders-7a97716 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 does it really take to build trust-driven hospitality and wellness brands in a rapidly evolving global market? In this episode, we sit down with Ari Peralta to explore how cultural intelligence, human-centered leadership, and experiential design are shaping the future of wellness, hospitality, and guest experience. Listeners will gain insight into how values, people, and long-term vision drive sustainable growth in a competitive industry. What You'll Learn: How cultural awareness influences leadership and decision-making in global hospitality and wellness organizations Why human-centered design matters more than ever in guest experience and brand loyalty The role of purpose, empathy, and trust in building resilient teams and lasting businesses How experiential wellness is evolving to meet changing guest expectations Practical insights on aligning operations, culture, and vision for long term impact Episode Highlights: 03:45 – Why culture is the foundation of meaningful hospitality experiences 11:20 – How global perspective shapes leadership and team alignment 19:08 – The connection between wellness, trust, and guest loyalty 28:34 – Designing experiences that feel authentic and human 38:15 – What modern hospitality leaders need to understand about purpose and people 49:22 – Lessons learned from building and scaling wellness-focused organizations 58:40 – Final reflections on the future of hospitality and experiential wellness Meet the Guest: Ari Peralta is a hospitality and wellness leader known for integrating cultural intelligence, people-first leadership, and experiential design to create meaningful guest experiences and strong organizational cultures. Tools, Frameworks, or Strategies Mentioned Human-centered leadership models Cultural intelligence in global operations Experiential wellness design principles Trust based organizational culture frameworks Closing Insight: Great hospitality is never just about places or products. It is about people, purpose, and the experiences that stay with us long after we leave.   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 Ari: https://www.instagram.com/mr_arigami/?hl=en Website: https://www.arigami.co.uk/whoweare   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 happens when leading wellness journalists hear the Global Wellness Trends revealed live and react in real time? In this episode of StarrCast, we bring you on-the-ground interviews with media voices covering the 2026 Global Wellness Trends and unpack what these shifts mean for wellness, hospitality, beauty, and longevity. Recorded in New York during the official trend unveiling, this episode captures how editors and analysts interpret the trends, where they see momentum building, and how these insights will shape coverage, consumer behavior, and industry strategy over the coming year. What You'll Learn: How wellness journalists are interpreting the Global Wellness Summit trend release Which longevity, beauty, and health trends the media believes will gain real traction Why women's health and longevity are becoming unavoidable storylines How social wellness and festival style experiences are resonating with audiences What media leaders see as gaps between trend forecasting and real world adoption Episode Highlights: 03:18 – Media reactions to the Global Wellness Summit trend release 08:42 – Why journalists see women led longevity as a defining storyline 15:07 – Skin longevity and how beauty media is reframing aging 21:55 – Strength training, sports, and the evolving narrative around women's health 29:34 – Microplastics and why media attention is accelerating concern 36:18 – Festivalization of wellness and what audiences are craving now 43:06 – Longevity residences through the lens of media and consumer trust Meet the Guests: Claire McCormack Senior Editor at The Beauty Independent, covering beauty, wellness, and longevity innovation with a focus on science-backed consumer trends. Darlene Fiske Founder and CEO of The Fiske Group, advising wellness, spa, and hospitality brands on media strategy, positioning, and industry visibility. Sara Jones Founder, Editor, and Publisher of Spa & Wellness MexiCaribe, reporting on wellness, hospitality, and longevity trends across Mexico and Latin America. Jane Kitchen Media Trends Analyst at the Global Wellness Institute and author of the longevity residences trend, specializing in wellness real estate and long-term health infrastructure. Tools, Frameworks, or Strategies Mentioned: Global Wellness Summit Future Trends methodology Media driven trend validation and storytelling frameworks Skin longevity science and reporting lenses Social wellness and experiential health programming models Closing Insight: Trends shape industries, but media shapes belief. Hearing how journalists interpret these ideas offers a rare look at how wellness narratives move from forecasts to headlines and into culture.   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 Trends 2026: https://www.globalwellnesssummit.com/2026trends/   Connect With the Guests: Claire McCormack: https://www.linkedin.com/in/clairemccormackmba/ Darlene Fiske: https://www.linkedin.com/in/darlenefiske Sara Jones: https://mx.linkedin.com/in/sarajonesspawell Jane Kitchen: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kitchenjane/   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 does it really take to design wellness experiences that change how people live, not just how they relax? In this episode of StarrCast, Lisa Starr sits down with Celine Vadam to explore how wellness tourism, longevity, and lifestyle design intersect in ways that shape healthier, more meaningful lives. The conversation looks at why authenticity, science, and cultural context matter more than trends when creating wellness destinations that truly work. Listeners will gain insight into how wellness strategies are built, how longevity can be approached without becoming overly medical, and how hotels, resorts, and communities can create experiences that support long term health and human connection. What You'll Learn: Why wellness tourism has shifted from luxury amenities to lifestyle driven experiences How longevity is evolving into a focus on health span, not just life span What makes wellness concepts fail when they rely on copy and paste strategies How Blue Zones principles can be translated into real world retreats and daily life Where wellness technology adds value and where it becomes a distraction Episode Highlights: 03:18 – How Celine's early exposure to different cultures shaped her view of wellness 08:42 – Why hotels can act as micro communities with lasting impact 14:25 – What wellness tourism gets wrong when it copies trends without context 20:10 – Understanding longevity through lifestyle, not just medical protocols 27:34 – How Blue Zones retreats help people recreate healthier lives at home 34:50 – Where wellness technology fits and how to avoid gimmicks 41:12 – Why slowing down, social connection, and purpose still matter most Meet the Guest: Celine Vadam, CEO of WE(i) Think Wellness Tourism. and a global wellness strategist with a background in hospitality development, sustainability, and lifestyle coaching. She has worked with leading hotel brands, wellness destinations, and Blue Zones programs to design wellness experiences rooted in culture, science, and human behavior. Tools, Frameworks, or Strategies Mentioned: Blue Zones lifestyle principles Wellness tourism development models Longevity and health span frameworks Wellness technology integration in hospitality Purpose driven retreat design Closing Insight: "Wellness works best when it fits naturally into how people live, eat, move, and connect."   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 Celine: linkedin.com/in/celine-vadam   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 does it really take to scale a purpose driven wellness manufacturing business in a global market? In this episode of StarrCast, we go inside Living Earth Crafts and Earthlite to explore how innovation, culture, and strategic acquisitions are shaping the future of wellness equipment and why these industry leaders are actively looking to acquire aligned businesses as they grow. What You'll Learn: How Living Earth Crafts and Earthlite built a defensible innovation strategy through design, engineering, and intellectual property Why a growth mindset after the 2008 financial crisis reshaped their product mix and long term vision What today's demand for low touch and touchless wellness technology means for spas, clinics, and recovery spaces How global expansion across Europe, the Middle East, and Asia Pacific is changing how wellness equipment is manufactured and delivered What the company looks for when evaluating potential acquisitions and strategic partners in the wellness space Episode Highlights: 03:10 – Why wellness equipment is the foundation of every spa and clinical experience 09:45 – Jim Chenevey's journey from professional sports to wellness manufacturing leadership 18:30 – How patents and IP created a competitive moat in a crowded market 26:40 – Entering medical, clinical, and pedicure categories to fuel sustainable growth 34:15 – Rod Derifield on balancing heart and discipline in wellness businesses 41:50 – Technology, touchless solutions, and the future of therapist free experiences 47:20 – Global expansion strategy and why Europe and Asia Pacific matter now 51:30 – What they are looking for as they actively pursue acquisitions Meet the Guests: Jim Chenevey is Chairman and Chief Innovation Officer of Living Earth Crafts and Earthlite, where he has helped lead more than 50 years of wellness equipment innovation and over one million treatment tables shipped worldwide. Rod Derifield is CEO and President of Living Earth Crafts and Earthlite, bringing deep experience in scaling global businesses and guiding the company through its next phase of growth and acquisitions. Tools, Frameworks, or Strategies Mentioned: Long term intellectual property and patent strategy Touchless and low touch wellness equipment models MindSync vibroacoustic and sensory reset technology Global manufacturing and regional assembly approach Culture first acquisition framework Closing Insight: As wellness continues to expand into longevity, recovery, and everyday living, the companies shaping its infrastructure matter more than ever. If you are building, innovating, or considering an exit in the wellness equipment or technology space, this conversation offers a clear view of where the industry is headed. 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 LEC: https://www.linkedin.com/company/living-earth-crafts/  Website: https://www.livingearthcrafts.com/   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