Steam `n Soul - Sweat. Talk. Connect.

In this episode of Steam ’n’ Soul, I sit down with Karolina Jarzabek, the first female World Champion in Aufguss, for an honest and inspiring conversation about sauna as performance, emotional expression, and personal growth.We talk about Karolina’s journey from her early days in Poland into the world of competitive Aufguss — and how becoming an Aufguss master is not just about technique, but about presence, energy, and learning how to truly entertain and connect with people in the sauna. Music plays a central role in her work, shaping rhythm, emotion, and atmosphere, and we explore how sound can completely transform the sauna experience.This episode also dives deep into storytelling in competition: how personal experiences, emotions, and vulnerability can elevate an Aufguss far beyond a technical routine. Karolina shares insights into the pressure of world championships, the importance of mentorship and community, and why supportive environments are especially crucial for growth.We also talk about live music in the sauna, our exchange about working with Lisa, and Karolina’s company Nature Steam, where the focus lies on creating meaningful, immersive experiences that connect heat, music, and emotion into one coherent ritual.🔥 In this episode, we talked about:Becoming an entertainer in the sauna, not just a technicianThe role of music in creating emotion, flow, and atmosphereStorytelling as a powerful tool in competitionsMentorship, community, and pressure in the world of Aufguss championshipsLive music, Nature Steam, and designing unique sauna experiencesSweat. Talk. Connect.Best,Matthias

In this episode of Steam ’n’ Soul, Matthias sits down with Grret van Bosstrateten, a sauna master from Belgium whose work goes far beyond heat, technique, and performance.Grete shares how a personal life change led her into the world of sauna and wellness, and why she believes that steam can be a language of its own — spoken through rituals, herbs, aromas, care, and emotional presence. Together, they explore how herbal infusions, peeling sessions, and thoughtfully crafted rituals can create deep emotional connections and safe spaces for healing.The conversation touches on respect for nature, the demanding process of harvesting herbs, the role of aromatherapy in evoking emotions, and the balance between spirituality, motherly care, and showmanship in sauna rituals. Grete also reflects on her experiences in herbal competitions like the Herbal Cup, working in duo constellations, and collaborating with others to continuously evolve her rituals.They also talk about sauna culture as a space for learning — from teaching children to listen to their bodies, to normalizing nudity in a healthy and respectful way, and passing on values of trust, care, and emotional awareness through sauna experiences.This episode is an invitation to slow down, feel, and reconnect — with yourself, with others, and with nature.Enjoy listening and let the steam speak to you. 🔥💛Sweat. Talk. Connect.Best Matthias

In this episode of Steam ’n’ Soul, I sit down with Tauno & Björn, two absolute sauna originals from the Ostsee Therme – sauna masters, performers, competitors… and yes, sometimes two clowns on a rising Aufguss mission 😄🔥We talk about how their journey into sauna culture began, what makes the Ostsee Therme such a special place (spoiler: Baltic Sea vibes included 🌊), and why Aufguss is so much more than heat, towels and essential oils.This conversation dives deep into:emotional storytelling without wordsteamwork under pressure (and why that can get spicy)XXL Aufguss rounds that turn into pure joythe art of waving, timing and synchronizationmusic, costumes, lighting – and why all of it mattersclassic Aufguss vs. modern classic competitionslessons learned at the world championship stageTauno and Björn share honest insights about preparation, creativity, dealing with judges’ feedback, and adapting performances to completely different sauna environments. We also talk about why emotion is a universal language, why sometimes you really don’t need any words, and how a “very special round” can stay with guests long after the sauna door closes.It’s a mix of craft, performance, passion – and plenty of laughs along the way. Two sauna masters who take their work seriously, but not themselves too much. Exactly how we like it.So lean back, turn up the volume, and step into a world where heat meets heart, towels meet rhythm, and sauna becomes connection.See you on the benches.Always.Sweat.Talk.Connect. 🔥BestMatthias

In this episode of Steam ’n’ Soul, we explore touch as a living craft — beyond titles, trends and fixed routines.My guest works independently in the field of skincare and bodywork, developing her own facial treatments, massages and peelings through years of hands-on experience. Rather than following standardized concepts, her work is guided by intuition, presence and a deep understanding of skin health and texture.Alongside her skincare practice, she also works with traditional Hammam rituals, where foam applications, rhythm and movement create a space for care, connection and slowing down. We talk about the difference between wellness treatments and real rituals, about touch as a form of communication, and about why presence often matters more than technique.This conversation moves between skincare, massage, Hammam culture and ritual work, but at its core it is about human connection. We reflect on learning by doing, developing one’s own methods, and creating treatments that feel honest, grounded and deeply human.If you are interested in skincare, bodywork, Hammam rituals, touch, presence and mindful care, this episode invites you to slow down and listen closely.sweat. talk. connect.Best,Matze

Hello Everyone,This is not a Christmas episode.It’s a quiet year-end message.A moment to pause, breathe and look back at a year full of heat, conversations and connection.Steam ’n’ Soul was never about numbers or perfection.It’s about people, cultures, stories and the shared passion for sauna.In this short episode, I want to say thank you —to the guests who shared their stories,to the sauna community for its openness,and to everyone listening, supporting and being part of this journey.Looking ahead, the next year won’t be louder.It will be deeper.More stories.More cultures.More soul in the steam.If you feel like it, send me a message or let me know who you’d love to hear on Steam ’n’ Soul next.Thank you for being here.BestMatze#steamandsoul#saunaculture#saunapodcast#wellnessculture#yearendmessage#community#authentictalk#podcastcommunity#saunaworld#slowcontent

In this inspiring episode, Matze sits down with Sandrine Bastille, a Canadian-born sauna master whose journey took her from a law degree in Canada to the heart of Germany’s vibrant Aufguss culture. With a background in dance and yoga, Sandrine brings a unique blend of creativity, mindfulness, and movement to the sauna — especially in her favorite style: Freestyle.Together, they explore how yoga and sauna rituals complement each other, why essential oils matter in the guest experience, and what it really takes to mentally and physically prepare for competitions. Sandrine opens up about career change, the importance of collaboration in the sauna community, and the mindset required to grow as a performer: embracing failure, managing expectations, and finding contentment in every outcome.This episode dives deep into modern classic and freestyle techniques, music in performance, and the joy of creating moments for guests. Whether you’re a sauna enthusiast or a wellness professional, Sandrine’s story is packed with motivation, embodiment, and authentic passion.Topics include:• Moving from Canada to Germany for a career in sauna• Dance, yoga & the foundations of her Freestyle Aufguss• Training essentials: etiquette, oils, mindset• Mental readiness for competition & dealing with pressureBreathing Techniques:https://open.spotify.com/episode/7lR4jC90jef8ivbXEfOdYP?si=YqIFnxmRT76ku5Hke5-8xg• The role of music in modern sauna performance• Balancing creativity, guest experience & personal growth• Why “every dropped towel” brings you closer to success• The blend of mindfulness, wellness & heat• And why those who aren’t satisfied with a little, won’t be satisfied with anythingA warm, energetic talk about finding purpose, embracing creativity — and trusting the process.Sweat. Talk. Connect.BestMatze

In this new episode of Steam ’n’ Soul, Matze sits down with Anders Hage, one of Denmark’s most respected sauna masters, Danish Saunagus Champion of 2015, international performer, educator, and founder of Nordic Health & Living.The conversation explores a core theme in Anders’ artistic approach: the tension between artistic integrity and the judging standards that shape competitive Aufguss. Anders reflects on the challenges artists face when deciding whether to adapt their performances to official criteria or to stay fully true to their creative identity. For him, the answer is clear — authenticity and emotional expression always come first.From there, the episode dives into his creative process: how he designs multisensory sauna “journeys,” how his medical and body–mind background informs his work, and what role intention, presence, and connection play in delivering meaningful experiences. Anders also shares insights into the history and spirit of Nordic sauna culture and talks about the vision behind the Danish Gusmester education program.Listeners will gain a deeper understanding of:– How artists balance creativity with competition rules– Why pushing boundaries matters in the evolution of Aufguss– How personal philosophy shapes the craft of sauna performance– The unique qualities of the Nordic approach to sweating, healing, and community– Anders’ motivations in teaching, mentoring, and building Nordic Health & Living⁠⁠https://nordichealthliving.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠https://gusmesteruddannelse.dk/⁠⁠This is an inspiring conversation about creativity, courage, and staying true to one’s artistic path — inside the sauna and far beyond it.BestMatze

In this new episode of Steam ’n’ Soul, Matze sits down with Anders Hage, one of Denmark’s most respected sauna masters, Danish Saunagus Champion of 2015, international performer, educator, and founder of Nordic Health & Living.The conversation explores a core theme in Anders’ artistic approach: the tension between artistic integrity and the judging standards that shape competitive Aufguss. Anders reflects on the challenges artists face when deciding whether to adapt their performances to official criteria or to stay fully true to their creative identity. For him, the answer is clear — authenticity and emotional expression always come first.From there, the episode dives into his creative process: how he designs multisensory sauna “journeys,” how his medical and body–mind background informs his work, and what role intention, presence, and connection play in delivering meaningful experiences. Anders also shares insights into the history and spirit of Nordic sauna culture and talks about the vision behind the Danish Gusmester education program.Listeners will gain a deeper understanding of:– How artists balance creativity with competition rules– Why pushing boundaries matters in the evolution of Aufguss– How personal philosophy shapes the craft of sauna performance– The unique qualities of the Nordic approach to sweating, healing, and community– Anders’ motivations in teaching, mentoring, and building Nordic Health & Living⁠https://nordichealthliving.com/⁠⁠https://gusmesteruddannelse.dk/⁠This is an inspiring conversation about creativity, courage, and staying true to one’s artistic path — inside the sauna and far beyond it.BestMatze

In this powerful episode of Steam ’n’ Soul, host Matthias Gottwald talks with Florian König — a passionate sauna master known for his creative energy, precision, and deep emotional connection to the sauna experience.Together, they dive into what makes sauna ceremonies more than just heat and water — exploring how emotion, rhythm, and technique merge into an art form.🔥 In this episode, you’ll hear about:The fine balance of temperature, timing, and aroma for a perfect infusionCompetition insights from the Therme Cup in Therme Erding, where Florian achieved an impressive second placeThe unique atmosphere and community spirit at sauna festivals across EuropeThe emotional depth of show ceremonies and how waving techniques can tell storiesThe special energy of the Keltenthron, where creativity and passion come aliveHow continuous learning and connecting with others shape the journey of every sauna masterIt’s a conversation about more than sauna — it’s about growth, flow, and the soul of the craft. 🌿

In this powerful and deeply personal episode, three-time Aufguss World Champion Robert Zidek opens up about what it truly means to master both your emotions and your craft.We talk about his journey through the Aufguss World Championships, the artistry behind his World Champion performances, and the intense emotional rollercoaster of this year’s team performance with Barbora and Gabor — the very act that earned them the 2025 world title.Robert shares the raw truth behind the teamwork, the conflict, and the chaos of feelings that defined their path — from moments of frustration and misunderstanding to connection, trust, and triumph.But the conversation goes far beyond competition.Robert reflects on the lessons of emotional intelligence, relationships, and personal growth — how even messy, complex situations can become a mirror for self-discovery and transformation.We also dive into SaunaSkillers, a powerhouse collective of top Aufguss Masters from across Europe. Together, they’re reshaping sauna culture through advanced training, mentorship, and their own innovative wedeltuch (whisk towel) — a symbol of skill, precision, and passion.This talk is a blend of honesty, inspiration, and deep insight into what it takes to perform, connect, and evolve — on and off the sauna stage.💬 Key Topics & Takeaways:Behind the scenes of a World Championship Aufguss performanceThe emotional dynamics and teamwork between Robert, Barbora, and GaborHow conflict and vulnerability can lead to growth and trustThe philosophy and vision behind SaunaSkillersThe importance of practice, self-belief, and patience in mastering any skillWhy true mastery starts withinBest Matze🎙️ Hosted by Matze – Steam ’n’ Soul: sweat. talk. connect.Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts & Amazon Music and YouTube.