Sauna Twins Podcast by Finnmark Sauna

On the 29th episode of The Sauna Twins podcast, hosted by Jake and Max Newport, we welcome Walter Långstedt, Export Sales Manager at Saas Instruments Oy, a Helsinki-based, family-owned lighting manufacturer that's been perfecting the art and science of illumination since 1978.While many focus on timber, heaters, and insulation when building a sauna, lighting remains one of the most underestimated elements of authentic sauna design. Yet for those who've experienced a truly well-lit sauna, the difference is unmistakable. The right lighting doesn't just help you see – it fundamentally shapes the atmosphere, influences your relaxation, and enhances the entire ritual.Walter brings a uniquely Finnish perspective to this conversation. Growing up in a culture where winter darkness stretches for months, and summer light barely fades, the people at SAAS understand light as something precious, almost sacred. This isn't about lumens and colour temperatures alone – it's about understanding how light affects wellbeing at the deepest level.In This Episode:- Walters' Journey into Saas, and his passion for lighting and sauna.- How specialist sauna lighting differs from standard fixtures.- Saas’s commitment to sustainable, long-lasting design.- Choosing the right illumination for your sauna space.- What 'Made in Helsinki since 1978' really means.As always, Jake and Max, along with the rest of the Finnmark Sauna team, would like to extend our gratitude to Walter for making the trip from Finland to visit our HQ in Spennymoor, Durham. It’s a true honour for us at Finnmark to tell these excellent products, crafted by Saas. Visit the Saas Instruments website here: https://saas.fi/en/Check out the Saas Instagram page: https://www.instagram.com/saasinstrumentsBrought to you by Finnmark Sauna Authentic Sauna Experiences https://www.finnmarksauna.com #Sauna #UKSauna #FinnmarkSauna #Finnmark #Saas #SaunaLighting #SaunaDesign #SaunaEducation

In this episode of The Sauna Twins podcast, Jake and Max Newport sit down with Oliver Horsford, founder of Reset London – an exciting new contrast therapy and wellness space opening in January 2026 at 240 Upper Street, Highbury & Islington.Oliver shares the personal journey that led him to create Reset, from years of burnout and disconnection to discovering the transformative power of breathwork and contrast therapy. Now, he's bringing that experience to North London with a one-of-a-kind 25-person charred oak Finnish sauna, top-tier ice baths ranging from 1°C to 9°C, and a custom-built breathwork space featuring world-class instructors.Reset isn't just another wellness facility – it's a community-focused space designed to help people reconnect with themselves through heat, cold, and breath. With guided contrast therapy experiences, social sauna sessions with DJs and special guests, and a focus on local community engagement, Oliver is creating something truly special in the heart of London.We discuss the science behind contrast therapy, the challenges of building a wellness business, the importance of authentic sauna design, and Oliver's vision for making these practices accessible to the Islington community and beyond.Whether you're a sauna enthusiast, curious about contrast therapy, or interested in the business of wellness, this conversation offers valuable insights from someone who's living and breathing this lifestyle.Reset London240 Upper Street, Islington, N1Opening Early 2026resetsauna.com - https://www.instagram.com/weresetlondon/Here is a taste of what we covered: The concept of Reset, London. How Oliver found himself in the wellness space —and the benefits and lessons that followed.What makes Reset unique and a must-visit for any sauna lovers or individuals looking to experience a sauna for the first time?Brought to you by Finnmark Sauna Authentic Sauna Experiences https://www.finnmarksauna.com #authenticsauna #sauna #finnishsauna #saunatime #finnmarksauna #saunahealthbenefits #saunaresearch #research #studies #saunastudies #heattherapy

On the 27th edition of The Sauna Twins Podcast, we are very excited to welcome Sauna Social Club, London's first dedicated sauna and ambient listening space, founded by Nikki and Benji in Peckham, South East London. Launched in August 2024, the venue was created in response to a cultural shift away from alcohol-centred socialising, offering people a place to meet up and hang out, centred around well-being rather than drinking.Co-founder Nikki Tesla brings a unique background as a DJ, radio host (with credits including BBC Radio 1, Rinse FM, and a monthly residency on Soho Radio), former Children's Safeguarding Social Worker, and community organiser. Her partner, Benji, combines experience as an actor and a personal trainer to create a space that bridges wellness, creativity, and meaningful connection.The venue has experienced extraordinary demand since opening, with sell-out weeks from the start and capacity increases unable to keep up with bookings. Located in a beautifully designed railway arch in Peckham, Sauna Social Club features Finnish saunas, ice baths in vintage roll-top tubs, and a listening lounge designed as a "home away from home" for the community.

The club's mission is to redefine London's social spaces by creating an alternative to traditional pubs, one that prioritises wellness, creativity, and genuine connection while incorporating breathwork, meditation, traditional sauna rituals, and curated ambient music experiences.Here is a taste of what we covered: - From concept to opening in railway arches, building the space from scratch. - Selling out week after week since August 2024, what's driving the demand? - Building a community—regulars, rituals, and genuine connection. - Challenges of establishing a new business model and the lessons learned along the way.https://www.saunasocialclub.co.uk/https://www.facebook.com/p/Sauna-Social-Club-61560509992733/https://www.instagram.com/sauna_socialclub/Jake and Max, Managing Directors at Finnmark Sauna, enjoyed this conversation with Nikki and Benji and look forward to the ongoing growth of the Sauna Social Club in the years ahead.Brought to you by Finnmark Sauna Authentic Sauna Experiences: https://www.finnmarksauna.com #authenticsauna #sauna #finnishsauna #saunatime #finnmarksauna #saunahealthbenefits #saunaresearch #research #studies #saunastudies #heattherapy

On the newest episode of The Sauna Twins Podcast, we welcome the talented Rachael McGrath. Rachael is a pioneering sauna researcher and recent graduate of the London Interdisciplinary School, where she conducted the UK's first academic study exploring the impact of community saunas on health and well-being. Her groundbreaking mixed-methods research partnered with Community Sauna Baths in London, examining nearly 1,800 sauna bathers and developing innovative methodologies, including "Thermal Circles" - a novel participatory research approach combining fire pit sharing circles with communal aufguss rituals and body mapping.Rachael's work bridges the gap between Finland's well-established sauna research and the emerging UK sauna culture, providing crucial evidence for saunas as social prescriptions within the NHS framework. Her research demonstrates statistically significant improvements in well-being following sauna rituals and reveals important associations between sauna frequency and self-reported physical and mental health benefits. During this insightful conversation, Jake and Max discuss Rachael’s journey into the industry, some of her experiences in this growing wellness space, and her findings.Here is a taste of what we covered:

- What made Rachael leave her job and return to education and pursue sauna research?- How Rachael came across the Community Sauna Baths.- Founding the LIS Sauna Society - bringing sauna culture to university life.Rachael's LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rachael-mcgrath-lis/?originalSubdomain=ukJake and Max, Managing Directors at Finnmark Sauna, loved chatting about all things sauna, wellness and Rachel's exciting plans for 2026 and beyond.

Brought to you by Finnmark Sauna Authentic Sauna Experiences: https://www.finnmarksauna.com #authenticsauna #sauna #finnishsauna #saunatime #finnmarksauna #saunahealthbenefits #saunaresearch #research #studies #saunastudies #heattherapy

On the 25th addition of The Sauna Twins podcast, we are honoured to welcome Corvin Roman & Ingrid Eriksson, founders of the Innotivate Premium Spa Canal Boat, Maria Alexander Spa Boat, located on the Regent Canal in London. A truly unique concept, guests' time aboard Maria Alexander includes use of the wood-fired sauna, a freshly filled hot tub and soothing spa treatments as well as time to relax whilst enjoying a selection of refreshments.

The project hasn’t been plain sailing, pun not intended, with plenty of lessons along the way, from identifying the logistics of running a commercial spa on a canal to learning how to sail the boat, which enabled Corvin and Ingrid the opportunity to change the docked location of Maria Alexander.

During this insightful conversation, Jake and Max discussed the backstory of Maria Alexander, Corvin and Ingrid's plans after the soft launch, the challenges they overcame, and the work involved in preparing, creating, and maintaining such an exceptional project.

Here is a taste of what we covered: 

• How did the idea come about?

• Lessons learned while creating Maria Alexander.

• The excitement surrounding the launch of Maria Alexander.

https://www.mariaalexander.co.uk/

https://www.instagram.com/mariaalexanderspaboat/

Jake and Max, Managing Directors at Finnmark Sauna, loved the opportunity to speak to Corvin and Ingrid at the Finnmark HQ. We can’t wait for the undeniable success that Maria Alexander will have!

Brought to you by Finnmark Sauna Authentic Sauna Experiences 

https://www.finnmarksauna.com 

#authenticsauna #sauna #finnishsauna #saunatime #finnmarksauna #saunahealthbenefits #saunaresearch #research #studies #saunastudies #heattherapy

Jake and Max Newport, Founders of Finnmark Sauna, welcome Stig Arild Pettersen, who is the Secretary General of the Norwegian Sauna Association (Norges Badstulaug), where he has been instrumental in building and strengthening Norway's sauna movement since taking on the role in 2023. A lifelong sauna enthusiast who lives on a small farm in Isfjorden in Møre og Romsdal, Stig oversees the day-to-day operations of the national organisation and serves as the primary liaison with members across Norway. Under his leadership, the Norwegian Sauna Association has experienced remarkable growth, expanding to include more than 120 sauna operators and several hundred private individuals throughout the country.

In his role, Stig is dedicated to promoting Norwegian sauna culture both domestically and internationally, working to fulfil the association's mission of creating an inclusive and accessible sauna culture for all. His work focuses on three key areas: fostering a generous and open sauna environment where everyone feels welcome regardless of background, promoting research and awareness of sauna's significant health benefits, and ensuring that saunas are genuinely accessible to all Norwegians irrespective of financial means or physical ability. Through his international outreach efforts, including speaking engagements like his recent appearance at The British Sauna Society Sauna Summit in London, Stig is helping to share Norway's unique "badstu" culture with sauna communities around the world.

Here is a taste of what we covered: 

• Who is Stig Arild Pettersen?

• How Stig found himself in the world of sauna.

• Stig discusses Badstufest, which is held annually in Norway.

https://www.norgesbadstulaug.no/

https://www.instagram.com/norges_badstulaug

It was fantastic welcoming Stig to the Finnmark Sauna HQ and showcasing the extensive detail that goes into each aspect of the business. Thanks again for visiting, Stig!

Brought to you by Finnmark Sauna Authentic Sauna Experiences 

https://www.finnmarksauna.com 

Jake and Max Newport, Founders of Finnmark Sauna, welcome Brass Monkey’s Founder, Danyl Bosomworth. Brass Monkey is revolutionising the UK Ice Bath and plunge pool market. If you’re unaware of them and the fantastic work they do, here’s how Danyl found himself in this unique and fast-growing industry: 

In mid-2020, Dan converted a chest freezer into an ice bath. Was it safe? Not particularly. Did his friends and family think he’d lost it? Yep. Did it help him at a tricky time in his life? Just a bit! He felt like a different person. Back to his old self. More chilled, less stressed, and full of energy. So he got to thinking. How can I help other people feel like this? And is there a better way than selling flipped freezers? Brass Monkey was the answer to both questions.

We set ourselves a challenge. To create the finest ice baths in the world. And, with absolutely no false modesty, we succeeded. Our ice baths are the only truly smart ice baths in the world. The only ice baths are fully temperature-controlled and able to make their own ice.

Here is a taste of what we covered: 

• Danyl’s previous career paths and how he found himself immersed in the Ice Bath benefits.

• Brass Monkey's first few years of trade, what they’ve learnt and how they continue to evolve.

• What makes Brass Monkey the UK’s leading Ice Bath and Plunge Pool specialists?

• Brass Monkey’s plans for 2025 and beyond.

Who is Brass Monkey Ice Baths? 

https://www.brassmonkey.co/

https://www.instagram.com/brassmonkeyice

https://www.youtube.com/@brassmonkeyice

It was fantastic welcoming Danyl to the Finnmark Sauna HQ and showcasing the extensive detail that goes into each aspect of the business. Thanks again for visiting, Danyl!

Brought to you by Finnmark Sauna Authentic Sauna Experiences 

https://www.finnmarksauna.com 

#authenticsauna #sauna #finnishsauna #saunatime #finnmarksauna #saunahealthbenefits #saunaresearch #research #studies #saunastudies #heattherapy 

On the 22nd episode of The Sauna Twins podcast, Jake and Max are thrilled to welcome the talented Irish author, Rosanna Cooney. Not only was Rosanna the winner of the ‘Irish Young Journalist of The Year’ award back in 2021, but she has just released a book titled ‘Sweat House.’ Here’s a brief insight into the book: 

Around Ireland, saunas have become new hubs of community as thousands of people are being drawn to the powerful forces of fire, water, steam and sweat. Sweathouse threads together the 3,000-year-old tradition of sauna in Ireland and reveals for the first time how this ‘new craze’ in a forgotten Irish legacy, smouldering just below the surface, is waiting for its moment to catch fire again.

Combining in-depth research with personal experience, Rosanna Cooney crawls inside enigmatic stones and sweathouses in search of their long-held secrets, and traces Ireland’s extraordinary role in the spread of sweat-bathing across the world. She travels around Europe to wild and magical saunas, bringing home their deep expertise on how to get the best physical, mental and spiritual benefits from each sweat session.

Here is a taste of what we covered: 

• How Rosanna found herself in the world of sauna.

• Rosanna’s career paths and the inspiration for her new book, ‘Sweat House’.

• An insight into the new & the ancient Irish sauna traditions.

https://finnmarksauna.com/products/sweathouse-by-rosanna-cooney?srsltid=AfmBOooGf70nUCk7uy33RjNnCWxMhiWV4CNhhgnmF-jFq5FrV0oAyTbk

https://www.instagram.com/rosannacooney/

It was fantastic welcoming Rosanna to the Finnmark Sauna HQ and showcasing the extensive detail that goes into each aspect of the business. Thanks again for visiting, Rosanna!

Brought to you by Finnmark Sauna Authentic Sauna Experiences 

https://www.finnmarksauna.com 

#authenticsauna #sauna #finnishsauna #saunatime #finnmarksauna #saunahealthbenefits #saunaresearch #research #studies #saunastudies #heattherapy

On the latest episode of The Sauna Twins Podcast, we welcome Alanna Kitt (@⁠⁠alannakit⁠⁠), Co-Founder of the game-changing 65-person sauna, ⁠⁠Arc⁠⁠, located in Canary Wharf, London. Born in Canada, Alanna is passionate about Health and Wellness and has over 8 years of experience in Breathwork Yoga/Meditation. In addition to her fantastic work within the wellness space, Alanna is pursuing her PhD in Neuroscience at the University of Victoria. 

During this insightful conversation, Jake and Max covered European sauna tradition, the wellness industry, and the importance of fostering community. Whether you’re someone who’s fond of sauna and wellness or someone relatively new to this amazing industry, you’ll find this conversation with Alanna more than helpful.

Here is a taste of what we covered: 

• An insight into contrast therapy.

• How arc was formed and the initial success of this project.

• Alanna’s wellness journey and her passions.

⁠⁠https://www.arc-community.com/⁠⁠

https://www.instagram.com/alannakit/?hl=en

Jake and Max, Managing Directors at Finnmark Sauna, loved chatting about all things sauna, wellness and Alanna’s exciting plans for 2025 and beyond.

Brought to you by Finnmark Sauna Authentic Sauna Experiences 

⁠⁠https://www.finnmarksauna.com⁠⁠ 

#authenticsauna #sauna #finnishsauna #saunatime #finnmarksauna #saunahealthbenefits #saunaresearch #research #studies #saunastudies #heattherapy

Jake and Max Newport, Founders of Finnmark Sauna, welcome Thermory’s Category Manager, Heikki Tang, to The Sauna Twins podcast. Thermory has become a global market leader thanks to our reliable reputation, based on our passion for wood, innovativeness, and sustainable operations. Here’s a brief overview of Thermory: 

We come from a country where more than half the land is covered with forest. We value wood. We care for forests. We value a healthy living environment. Timber is a renewable natural resource, and with its use as a construction material, we desire to reduce our ecological footprint and contribute to a nature-friendly way of living. 

Our broad range of wood species, profiles and dimensions caters for a variety of styles. With all you need for the sauna, from everyday products to distinctive, novel designs that appeal to those with a bolder outlook, you can create a wellness space that combines convenience and practicality with striking visual features.

Here is a taste of what we covered: 

• Who is Thermory?

• How Heikki found himself in the sauna world.

• What makes Thermory different from other sauna timber suppliers?

• Thermory’s plans for 2025 and beyond.

https://thermory.com/

https://www.instagram.com/thermorydesign/

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCERqITVD1MKHZ6-XXyxQzxg

It was fantastic welcoming Heikki to the Finnmark Sauna HQ and showcasing the extensive detail that goes into each aspect of the business. Thanks again for visiting, Heikki!

Brought to you by Finnmark Sauna Authentic Sauna Experiences 

https://www.finnmarksauna.com 

#authenticsauna #sauna #finnishsauna #saunatime #finnmarksauna #saunahealthbenefits #saunaresearch #research #studies #saunastudies #heattherapy