Risto Elomaa: 16 Years Leading the International Sauna Association | Sauna Talk #140

In this episode of Sauna Talk, Glenn Auerbach sits down with Risto Elomaa, outgoing president of the International Sauna Association, on the eve of the International Sauna Congress in Oslo.

After 16 years as ISA president—and two decades on its board—Risto reflects on a lifetime shaped by sauna, beginning with his first smoke sauna at just four weeks old. He shares stories from decades of sauna culture around the world, from Finland and Germany to Japan, South Korea, China, and beyond.

The conversation explores what defines a real sauna, the importance of good löyly, European sauna standards, the future of sauna research, and why Risto believes researchers need common protocols if sauna science is going to advance responsibly.

Glenn and Risto also discuss Sauna Aid and its work supporting Ukraine, the growth and regulation of Aufguss, sauna diplomacy, birch vihta traditions, raising children with sauna, smoke sauna culture, and some of the memorable people Risto has met on sauna benches around the world.

And when asked what matters most in a good sauna?

For Risto, the answer is simple: good löyly, good löyly, and good löyly.

Join us for a wide-ranging conversation with one of the most influential international voices in modern sauna culture as he prepares to pass the torch at the International Sauna Congress.

For more sauna stories, resources, and authentic sauna culture, visit SaunaTimes.com.

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