StarrCast

StarrCast
StarrCast

Wellness is what everyone wants! For those who aspire to, or currently work in, the field of wellness, Lisa Starr of Wynne Business discusses tips and tricks for a successful business or career in the wellness field. You'll hear the stories behind entrepreneurs and their businesses, learn what has helped them to thrive and grow, and keep abreast of the trends in this rapidly changing industry.

  1. JUL 2

    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.

    48 min
  2. JUN 25

    From Clinics to Culture: Pioneering Wellness in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

    This compelling episode of StarrCast comes to you live from Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, where host Lisa Starr sits down with the dynamic Dr. Ebtissam AlMadi, co-owner of the Kadoon family of businesses, wellness visionary, and cultural bridge-builder. Together, they explore the remarkable evolution of spa and wellness in the Kingdom—from the first medical spa in 2003 to the creation of the Kadoon integrated ecosystem including a spa, beauty school, and wellness product distributorship. Dr. AlMadi shares her personal journey from dentistry to becoming a national leader in wellness, highlighting how global standards are being harmonized with Saudi cultural values. The episode dives deep into the rapid transformation of wellness education, the role of local traditions in spa treatments, and the emergence of Saudi Arabia as a world-class wellness destination. Guest Highlights Dr. Ebtissam AlMadi: Co-founder of Kadoon Companies; wellness entrepreneur; trained dentist and university professor. Visionary behind Saudi Arabia's first medical spa and the country's only licensed beauty and wellness training institute under technical and vocational education authority. Catalyst for creating the Saudi Wellness Association, connecting global thought leaders with local policymakers and health authorities. Key Takeaways Integrating Eastern and Western Values: Dr. AlMadi’s unique upbringing and professional background allow her to blend international spa trends with deep respect for Saudi traditions. Educational Evolution: Kadoon Academy provides formal training and certification, creating a pipeline for local spa professionals—a critical step as global hotel brands expand in the Kingdom. Cultural Adaptation & Innovation: From hijab-friendly scalp care to heritage-inspired treatments using quartz and sand beds, local needs are redefining spa experiences. Wellness as National Strategy: Wellness tourism is rising fast, especially within mega-projects like Neom and Red Sea Global. Regulatory bodies are updating rapidly to support innovation. Staffing Solutions: With challenges in recruiting trained staff, the academy helps “grow local talent,” focusing on long-term workforce sustainability. Vision for the Future: Saudi Arabia’s diverse geography and heritage are being leveraged for holistic, high-impact wellness tourism offerings.

    44 min
  3. JUN 18

    Soft Power & Strategy: The Future of Wellness Consulting with Leah Crump

    Host Lisa Starr sits down with Leah Crump, founder of Leah Crump Consulting and author of the forthcoming book Be Well, Do Well, in this inspiring episode of the StarrCast Podcast. A trailblazer in spa consulting, Leah shares her unique path from the treatment room to global wellness consulting and authorship. With a deep focus on healing, authentic leadership, and sustainable business practices, Leah opens up about the realities of the consulting world, the burnout epidemic in wellness leadership, and how she’s helping shape the next generation of consultants through her mastermind course. She also offers an inside look at her new book, which aims to blend practical guidance, personal storytelling, and soulful strategy. Whether you're a spa director, a wellness entrepreneur, or just curious about the evolving world of wellness, this episode is rich with professional insight, heartfelt reflection, and powerful lessons on how to “be well and do well.” About the Guest: Leah Crump Founder of Leah Crump Consulting, specializing in spa and wellness development and operational strategy. Creator of a Spa Consulting Mastermind course. Author of Be Well, Do Well, a field guide to healing work, lasting leadership, and defining success on your own terms. Known for blending operational precision with soulful leadership and visionary creativity. Key Takeaways: Why great spa consultants are equal parts problem-solvers, artists, and guides. How “soft power” and feminine leadership can positively impact hospitality and wellness. Tips for avoiding burnout and embracing balance as a wellness professional. How Leah structured and self-published her first book—and what others can learn from that journey. Predictions for the future of wellness: from tech-touch balance to community-focused "third places."

    52 min
  4. JUN 11

    Wellness at Giga Scale: Red Sea Global's Bold Vision with Lindsay Madden-Nadeau

    In this powerful episode of The StarrCast Podcast, host Lisa Starr sits down with Lindsay Madden-Nadeau, Senior Director of Wellness Strategy for Red Sea Global, to explore one of the most ambitious hospitality and wellness developments in the world. From her beginnings in luxury hospitality to leading wellness vision for giga-projects like Amaala and Red Sea, Lindsay offers insights into the massive transformation taking place in Saudi Arabia’s wellness tourism sector. With candor and vision, Lindsay shares how Saudi’s Vision 2030 is reshaping global tourism, why Amaala is set to become the world's most comprehensive wellness destination, and how wellness is being designed from the ground up — with cultural sensitivity, sustainability, and commercial strategy at the core. Guest Highlights: Lindsay Madden-Nadeau began in luxury hospitality and clinical massage therapy and rose through major global hotel groups including Fairmont, Accor, and Banyan Tree. Founded Meraki Bespoke Wellness Strategies in France before joining Red Sea Global. Now leads the wellness strategy for over 30 luxury hotels and 12 dedicated wellness brands across Saudi’s Red Sea giga-projects. Key Takeaways: What is Red Sea Global? A government-backed developer responsible for Saudi’s giga projects, including Amaala and Red Sea Projects. Wellness Beyond Spas: From coral regeneration and solar-powered staff villages to culturally rooted wellness rituals, Lindsay emphasizes that wellness isn’t inserted — it’s embedded.

    53 min
  5. MAY 28

    One Day Can Change Your Whole Life: Inside Global Wellness Day

    In this enlightening episode of The StarrCast Podcast, host Lisa Starr welcomes wellness visionary Belgin Aksoy, the founder of Global Wellness Day. From her beginnings in the Turkish hospitality industry to the creation of a worldwide movement touching over a billion lives, Belgin shares the deeply personal journey that led to the birth of Global Wellness Day—and the unstoppable passion that continues to drive it. Listeners will hear how a cancer diagnosis at age 29 sparked a transformation not only in Belgin's own life but in the wellness journeys of people around the globe. With a mission rooted in gratitude, simplicity, and service, Belgin reveals the surprising origins of Global Wellness Day and how it's grown from a small hotel event to a massive celebration in 170 countries. This episode is a must-listen for spa professionals, wellness entrepreneurs, and anyone interested in turning personal insight into global impact. Key Takeaways The origin story of Global Wellness Day started with a personal health crisis and a mysterious inner calling. True wellness is not about perfection, but balance—and it’s accessible to all, regardless of status or income. The event is founded on volunteerism and authenticity, operating without a formal organization or profit model. Global Wellness Day encourages simple, impactful actions through its 7-Step Manifesto, such as drinking more water, walking more, and doing a good deed. The movement's annual theme—"Reconnect Magenta"—reminds us to reconnect with ourselves, our community, and nature.

    54 min
  6. MAY 21

    Pricing with Purpose: Smarter Spa Revenue Through Yield Management

    In this insightful episode of The StarrCast Podcast, host Lisa Starr welcomes two industry leaders—Tony Nicastro, Senior Global Manager of Spa & Fitness at Marriott, and Derek Hofmann, Senior Director of Spa & Wellness at Four Seasons— for a deep dive into the evolving practice of yield management in spas. Once a foreign concept in wellness, dynamic pricing is now gaining traction as spas seek to balance rising demand, staffing challenges, and revenue growth. Drawing on years of leadership in global hospitality, Tony and Derek explore how spas can apply airline-style pricing to spa appointments, the technology that supports this shift, how to implement it without guest pushback, and how it's even enhancing guest satisfaction. With practical takeaways, real-world examples, and forward-looking strategies, this episode is a must-listen for spa leaders ready to evolve their pricing models and maximize profitability. Key Takeaways: Yield management is underutilized in spas—yet it's perfectly suited to spa services due to time-sensitive, limited inventory. Technology now enables flexible pricing based on day, time, utilization, and demand—automatically and without manual input. Guest satisfaction may improve, not decline, under dynamic pricing, by offering better access and clarity. Staff compensation strategies must evolve in tandem, balancing fairness, motivation, and profit. Online booking systems encourage upselling and reduce pressure on front desk teams. Dynamic availability (managing service duration) is another tool to optimize flow and elevate guest experience. Cultural and operational differences affect adoption across global markets, but the momentum is growing. Guest Highlights: Tony Nicastro brings a global view from Marriott's vast portfolio, where he's helped pioneer dynamic spa pricing practices across North America. His data-driven approach blends guest psychology, technology integration, and measurable ROI. Derek Hofmann helps to shape wellness strategy for Four Seasons and shares candid insights into market variability, team adoption challenges, and why dynamic pricing isn’t just about profit—it’s about elevating the guest journey.

    50 min
  7. MAY 8

    Designing the Future of Wellness Retreats: Insights from Destination Deluxe

    In this inspiring episode of The StarrCast Podcast, host Lisa Starr sits down with Vivienne Tang, founder and CEO of Destination Deluxe, a luxury wellness and travel company, to explore the dynamic world of wellness retreats. Vivienne shares her journey from fashion publishing to becoming a global thought leader in wellness travel, offering insider perspectives on the evolution of wellness experiences, the essential elements that make retreats transformative, and how travelers are seeking more profound, meaningful experiences beyond traditional spa services. Whether you’re a spa professional, wellness entrepreneur, or simply wellness-curious, this episode offers a compelling deep dive into where the industry is headed—and how you can tap into it. About Vivienne Tang Founder & CEO of Destination Deluxe, a leading online magazine and platform for curated wellness and luxury travel. Former Editor of Asia Spa Magazine and co-owner of The Sanctuary, a holistic wellness center in Hong Kong. Vivienne is recognized worldwide for her expertise in wellness retreats, and is often called upon by top hotels and resorts to consult on designing wellness programs. Key Takeaways The Rise of Wellness Retreats: How consumer needs shifted from spa services to holistic, transformative experiences. Authenticity Matters: The importance of genuine programming, expert practitioners, and personalized guest experiences. What to Expect: A breakdown of typical retreat structures—consultations, activities, food, and digital detox strategies. Medical Meets Wellness: How biohacking and preventative medicine are blending with traditional wellness practices. Building a Successful Retreat: Essentials like customized guidance, community building, connection to nature, and standout culinary offerings. The Ongoing Journey: How retreats offer a gateway, but true wellness is a lifelong path—not a one-week fix. Visit our website Connect with me on LinkedIn Watch StarrCast episodes and other useful content on YouTube

    49 min
  8. MAY 1

    The Future of Recovery: Robotic Massage, Rewirement, Cold Plunge, and Personalized Wellness

    In this episode of The StarrCast Podcast, Lisa Starr speaks with James Gu, Director of Spa and Wellness for Equinox, and Greg Kasparian, founder of The Creek Retreat in Serenbe, Georgia. The episode, recorded live at the We Work Well spa event at Chateau Elan, offers a dual perspective on the future of wellness.  James discusses how Equinox is evolving its spa offerings across over 90 properties with a focus on performance, biohacking, and accessibility. Greg shares his journey from the supplier side of the industry to launching a cutting-edge wellness facility based on intention, technology, and personal reinvention.  This episode reveals how two leaders are shaping wellness spaces that respond to modern health demands, staffing limitations, and shifting consumer expectations. Why It Matters: As wellness merges with fitness and personal optimization, both guests demonstrate how vision, adaptability, and innovation are crucial to staying ahead in a rapidly evolving industry. Key Takeaways: The future of spa is rooted in performance, personalization, and technology-driven recovery. Equinox is shifting from one-size-fits-all spa models to specialized tiers and touchless modalities. The Creek Retreat embodies a deeply personal reinvention of wellness care, offering hyperbaric therapy, red light, cryotherapy, and pain-relieving SoftWave technology. Biohacking, longevity, and stress regulation are top wellness trends guiding design and service innovation. “Rewirement” is the new retirement: wellness entrepreneurship as a second act. Other Topics:  Hyperbaric oxygen therapy Cryotherapy Red light therapy Wellness retreats Biohacking Vibroacoustics Recovery labs Touchless therapy Healthspan Visit our website Connect with me on LinkedIn Watch StarrCast episodes and other useful content on YouTube

    42 min

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
3 Ratings

About

Wellness is what everyone wants! For those who aspire to, or currently work in, the field of wellness, Lisa Starr of Wynne Business discusses tips and tricks for a successful business or career in the wellness field. You'll hear the stories behind entrepreneurs and their businesses, learn what has helped them to thrive and grow, and keep abreast of the trends in this rapidly changing industry.

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