Session Replays
And the löyly lives on — if you missed a session from 2025, you can catch up on the replays below!
Session #1
The Upper Bench on Hot Topics in Sauna: More Than Just Heat: Unlocking the Depth of Finnish Sauna
Eero Kilpi, Sauna Champion and FFN Lecturer of the Year, with his Upper Bench Podcast Co-Hosts Risto Rice and Sam Wacha
Get ready for some "hot takes" with Eero Kilpi, Risto Rice, and Sam Wacha, co-hosts from the famed Upper Bench podcast. This session explores how Finnish-style sauna—a rich, multi-sensory cultural tradition—has been simplified in modern America into a one-dimensional, sweat-centric "hot box phenomenon." He traces its historical and cultural roots, emphasizing the essential elements—earth, air, water, and fire—that create an authentic sauna experience. Highlighting key features such as user-controlled steam and multiple heating and cooling rounds, Eero clears up common misconceptions and champions a holistic, multi-dimensional approach to enjoying this sacred practice. This conversation invites a deeper appreciation of sauna as a health-enhancing and mentally enriching practice rooted in Finnish tradition.
In collaboration with
Session #2
A View from the International Sauna Association
Risto Elomaa, President of the International Sauna Association
Risto Elomaa, President of the International Sauna Association, brings a global perspective to the sauna tradition. In his talk, he explores the evolving role of sauna culture worldwide, from its deep historical roots in Finland to its growing popularity and adaptations in diverse regions. Risto highlights the ways different countries interpret and integrate sauna into their wellness practices while discussing the importance of preserving authentic sauna traditions. As an advocate for the cultural and health benefits of sauna, he'll share insights on global trends, sustainability practices, and the collaborative efforts to promote sauna as a unifying, holistic experience across borders.
Session #3
The Science of Sauna: Medical and Mental Benefits of Heat
Dr. Earric Lee, Post Doctoral Research Fellow, Montreal Heart Institute; Associate Professors Ashley Mason from University of California San Francisco and Ant Shepherd from the University of Portsmouth in the UK
What are the actual known benefits of sauna bathing and heat therapy? Will going to the sauna once a month confer all the ameliorations touted by the media? How should we use heat and the sauna effectively?
This discussion panel comprises of Associate Professors Ashley Mason from University of California San Francisco, and Ant Shepherd from the University of Portsmouth in the UK. Dr. Mason has been studying the effect of heat therapy on mental health, while Dr. Shepherd’s research focus is the physiological effects of heat therapy. The discussion will be moderated by Dr. Earric Lee, a postdoctoral research fellow at the Montreal Heart Institute.
The conversation will cover what we know so far from the scientific literature about the transient responses of whole body heating as well as the long-term effects of repeated exposure to heat, known as heat therapy. The panel will also be taking relevant questions from the audience during the discussion of these topics. Join us and be a part of this dialogue!
Session #4
Sauna Diplomacy Across the Atlantic
Riikka Hietajärvi, Press Counsellor at Embassy of Finland in the U.S., with Markus Hippi, Press Counsellor at Embassy of Finland in the U.K.
For decades, Finnish diplomats have used the sauna as a unique way to bring together contacts from government, media, think tanks, and business to experience this distinctive part of Finnish culture while discussing current affairs. What started as informal gatherings was later formalized with the founding of the Diplomatic Sauna Society in Washington, DC, in 2008. The society quickly gained popularity, expanding to countries around the world. In this discussion, Press Counsellors Riikka Hietajärvi and Markus Hippi, from the Finnish embassies in the US and the UK, share insights into the powerful role of the Diplomatic Sauna Society and its growing interest across the Atlantic.
Session #5
The State of the Sauna Union: An Overview of the Sauna Business Market in North America
Justin Juntunen, Founder and CEO of Cedar and Stone Nordic Sauna, and Alan Jalasjää, Sauna Expert and Kivia Co-Host
North America is discovering sauna in new and exciting ways! Join Justin Juntunen of Cedar and Stone Sauna and Alan Jalasjää, podcast host of Kivia Sauna and sauna expert, take a deep dive into the growing sauna market across the continent. Together, they’ll uncover regional trends, innovative developments, and growth opportunities in the burgeoning sauna market. This discussion will delve into the evolving role of public saunas, bathhouses, and wellness providers, offering an under-the-hood look at the vibrant sauna community across the continent. Don’t miss this chance to immerse yourself in the future of sauna!
Session #6
Sauna Stories from the Copper Country: The Brass Buckle on the Sauna Belt
Panel moderated by Honorary Consul Jim Kurtti with Barbara Männinen, Haley Goodreau, and Daena and Amanda Mäkelä
Sauna Stories from the Copper Country explores the rich and enduring sauna culture of Michigan’s Copper Country (Kuparisaari) through personal narratives and historical insights. Moderated by Honorary Consul Jim Kurtti, the panel features Barbara Männinen, Haley Goodreau, and Daena and Amanda Mäkelä, each bringing a unique perspective on the region’s deep-rooted Finnish sauna traditions.
Kurtti will provide historical context on Finnish settlement, public saunas, and the evolution of sauna culture, while Goodreau will share her journey of discovering Finnish-American heritage through sauna as a photographer. The Mäkeläs will offer insights from their involvement in sauna projects, highlighting the ongoing significance of sauna in the community.
From lifelong residents who recall well-worn paths to family saunas once shared with local miners to newcomers who have embraced the Finnish sauna in all its dimensions, this discussion captures the past and present of one of the most authentically Finnish regions in the United States.
Session #7
From Jämsä to Europe: A European History of the Sauna Route
Saija Silen, Cultural Heritage Specialist, and Head of Jämsä Sauna Village
Saija Silen, Cultural Heritage Specialist, and Head of Jämsä Sauna Village, who runs a sauna village in Jämsä, Finland, introduces the Sauna Route, a new initiative connecting European sauna culture. Starting in Jämsä and expanding to Sweden, Estonia, Norway, and beyond, the Sauna Route allows travelers to experience saunas across Europe, from historical sites to modern facilities. The route showcases sauna heritage through public saunas, local traditions, museums, arts, and education, offering a rich cultural journey for sauna enthusiasts. This growing network strengthens European sauna culture and highlights its significance for visitors of all ages. Come learn about the history of sauna in Europe (and sneak peek: it's not just a Finnish thing!).
Session #8
The Power of Sauna Vihta and Löyly
Dalva Lamminmäki and Maaria Alén
This presentation by Dalva Lamminmäki and Maaria Alén explores the Finnish sauna whisk, known as vihta or vasta (using vihta here). A symbol of Finnish folklore, the vihta plays a vital role in folk healing rituals, functioning both as a tool for divination and a method of plant-based medicine. Its use creates a multisensory experience, enhancing both physical and mental well-being. Learn about the cultural significance, traditional practices, and the various ways to incorporate the vihta into your private sauna sessions for a more meaningful and restorative experience.
Session #9
The Art & Soul of Sauna and Sweat Bathing Culture + FinnLeo Sauna Giveaway!
Mikkel Aaland in conversation with Eero Kilpi
Bathing connoisseur Mikkel Aaland invites us to explore the global renaissance of sauna and sweat-bathing cultures through decades of observation, personal insights, and his evocative, diverse photography. Throughout his explorations, Aaland uncovers a myriad of bathing rituals, each rich in cultural significance and therapeutic benefits. His narrative is both informative and inspiring, offering readers practical insights and pathways to a more enriched, health-focused lifestyle. His recently released series, The Perfect Sweat, stands as a testament to the transformative power of these practices, celebrating their historical roots and contemporary revival.