Experiencing the Culture of Bathing - Sauna Thoughts from New York City | Sauna Talk Episode 104

This episode of Sauna Talk comes to you from New York City, recorded during the Culture of Bathing gathering in January 2025.

Rather than a single conversation, this is a walk-through—capturing voices, perspectives, and moments from across the event.

With nearly 100 attendees from around the world—many of them bathhouse owners, operators, and builders—this gathering offered a unique snapshot of where sauna and bathing culture stands today, particularly in North America.

Armed with a handheld recorder, I made my way through Manhattan and Brooklyn, connecting with a handful of people shaping this evolving space.

You'll hear from:

• Shelby, working with Thermë Group, bringing art and design into bathing experiences

• Dimitri Shapiro of the Russian & Turkish Baths, sharing the story of a 130-year-old New York institution

• Don Genders of Design for Leisure, reflecting on decades of global spa and wellness development

• Cosmin, wellness director at Thermë Bucharest, diving into the science and practice of aufguss

• Vicky of Earth Sauna (Victoria, BC), working to bring aufguss training to North America

• Megan of Sauna du Nord (Duluth, MN), speaking to community, accessibility, and the spirit of sauna

What emerges is a layered conversation—touching on tradition, innovation, design, culture, and the growing momentum behind public bathing.

From old-world bathhouses to modern wellness facilities… from aromatherapy and aufguss to questions of access, authenticity, and community… this episode captures a moment in time as sauna culture continues to evolve.

Think of this one as a series of conversations—recorded on the move, in real time, from the streets and bathhouses of New York City.

From the Culture of Bathing gathering, please enjoy this episode of Sauna Talk.