The Two Fun Guys welcome Geno R. Mattioda, an entrepreneur and wellness visionary. Gino shares the story behind The Den Ritual, a groundbreaking wellness and community space he’s building in Austin, Texas.
From cold plunges and saunas to fostering meaningful connections and reimagining social culture, Gino explains what it means to create a space that blends ancestral practices with modern wellness trends.
The conversation explores everything from Gino's personal growth journey, the importance of community, and how life's biggest challenges – like losing a loved one – can ignite purpose and transformation. Along the way, the Two Fun Guys riff on the soul of Austin, integrating wellness into life, and why a shared sense of connection is the key to thriving in today’s world.
Chapters00:00 Changing Social Culture01:18 The Rise of Wellness Communities03:10 What is The Den?06:02 Designing the Experience11:13 The Science and Social Magic of Wellness28:10 Purpose Over Projects44:51 Community: The Core of Healing
Key Takeaways
Wellness is the New Nightlife: Social culture is shifting from hedonistic consumption to communal wellness practices, creating opportunities for spaces like The Den.
The Power of Community: From cold plunges to saunas, shared wellness experiences foster connection and support, essential for a healthy and fulfilling life.
Integrating Life and Wellness: Gino emphasizes the importance of creating spaces where people can work, relax, heal, and play together seamlessly.
Purpose-Driven Creation: The Den is a product of Gino’s deep personal journey, influenced by loss, transformation, and a desire to bring people together.
Austin’s Unique Vibe: Austin’s vibrant, creative community serves as the perfect backdrop for Gino’s vision, attracting like-minded individuals craving connection and growth.
Websites and Online Services Mentioned
Othership: A community sauna and wellness space referenced as an inspiration for The Den.
Website: https://www.othership.us/
Morasco Cold Plunge: Referenced for its scientific approach to cold plunges
Red Rocks Amphitheatre: Mentioned as a venue inspiration for creating experiences tied to natural elements.
Pure Yoga: Mentioned as a collaborator for yoga practitioners at The Den.
Sam Nazarian: Nightlife and hospitality mogul mentioned in reference to wellness-focused ventures.Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/samnazarian
Dr. Tom Sager: Founder of Morasco Cold Plunge, cited for scientific insights on wellness practices.Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/seagertp
Follow The Den
Stay up-to-date on The Den’s journey and pre-membership launch:
Instagram: @TheDenRitual(https://www.instagram.com/thedenritual)
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Social Media Handles and Influencers Mentioned