In this episode, we sit down with Armin – Aufguss trainer, concept creator, and the grounded force behind Aufguss Roots. Based at the legendary Therme Kaskade, Armin has built a unique format that allows guests to experience authentic sauna ceremonies without extra cost – a quiet revolution in a commercialized spa world.

We talk about:

• his philosophy behind serving Aufguss instead of performing it,

• how Aufguss Roots was born and what it stands for today,

• the deep connection between education, community and ritual,

• and how he creates powerful guest experiences with clarity, rhythm and intention.

Armin also shares insights from his time at the Herbarium in the Netherlands, reflects on the future of ceremonial sauna in Europe, and gives us a sneak peek into his upcoming participation in Battle of Gladiators at Strobelhof this July.

This episode is about grounding. About honesty. About craft.

It’s a tribute to those who practice with purpose.

🔥 For the ones who carry the ladle with care.

Matze

"Estonia’s Indiana Jones of Sauna & Rituals – with Kaupo Sormus“

*In this episode, we travel to Estonia — a country with one of the most unique and soulful sauna cultures in the world. Host Matze takes us behind the scenes of the Estonian smoke sauna tradition, part of UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage, and explores the deep-rooted rituals that define the Estonian sauna experience.

Our guest: Kaupo — a passionate sauna master with more than ten years of experience, a strong connection to the Finnish sauna scene, and recent second-place winner at the Estonian Sauna Championships.

We talk about his journey, the beauty of smoke sauna rituals, and how Estonian sauna culture differs from other traditions across Europe.

Recorded during Matze’s first visit to Estonia, this episode is full of authentic impressions, inspiring stories, and deep respect for the local sauna spirit.

Steam ’n’ Soul — sweat. talk. connect.

by Matze

“Thorsten Möller – AufgussThor: "From Big Apple to Herbal Alps”In this very first episode of Steam ’n’ Soul, I’m joined by my first guest — Thorsten Möller, also known as AufgussThor.We share a special connection: at the 2024 Aufguss World Championships, Thorsten guided me through my first ever Aufguss in the Kelo Sauna. We talk about his journey as a sauna master, his work at Silvretta Therme in Ischgl, his first title as national Champion in Show Aufguss in Austria 2023, his experience in the Pirts-Rituals training — and the signature herbal ritual that earned him the title of Austrian Herbal Champion in 2023 as well.

Enjoy this soulful start to the Steam ’n’ Soul podcast!

Matze