From Bathhouse to World Stage: Aufguss Takes the U.S.

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.