For the very first time, Steam ’n’ Soul goes 2 full hours 🔥 — packed with stories, knowledge, and passion from the world of Aufguss.

This episode features Kim P. Pedersen , founder of Sauna Academy, former President of the Danish Sauna Association, and one of the driving forces behind Sauna Aid. With years of experience as an international jury member, Kim plays an active role at the Aufguss World Championships, where his passion for sauna culture and respect for sauna continues to inspire and shape the global sauna community.

We met during the WM Playoffs at Satama and sat down to talk about:

✨ Kim’s personal sauna journey, from childhood memories to becoming an international figure.

✨ His work in Denmark with Saunagus and education around sauna rituals.

✨ The unique role of a jury member at the Show-Aufguss World Championships — how the jury works, what their responsibilities are, and what it means to evaluate performances.

✨ Together we went through the official six judging categories step by step, exploring what they mean and how they shape the competition.

🔗 You can find the official evaluation catalogue here: https://aufguss-wm.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/aufguss_wm_jury_catalog_a3_2025_final.pdf

YouTube: ⁠Aufguss WM - Jury Evaluation Catalogue 2025YouTube · Aufguss WM25.12.2024⁠

Aufguss WM: https://aufguss-wm.com

Aufguss Roots: https://shop.aufgussroots.de/

Sauna Aid: https://sauna-aid.com/who-we-are/

Aromen: https://www.aromen.be/de

⚠️ Important note: this episode is not a “how to win gold” guide. Instead, it highlights the framework set by the jury — a framework within which sauna masters can (and should) push boundaries, test limits, and fuel the development of Aufguss culture worldwide.

💡 Expect authentic insights, behind-the-scenes perspectives, and a personal look at the people who keep the Aufguss stage fair, inspiring, and evolving.

🎧 Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, AMAZOn Music and YouTube.

#sweattalkconnect #SteamNSoul #AufgussWM #saunaculture

Best

Matze

In this episode of Steam ’n’ Soul, we welcome Ashley and Gideon from the Netherlands – crowned 2025 Dutch Show Aufguss Team Champions.

We dive deep into their story as Aufguss artists, partners, and creative minds. You’ll get powerful insights into their journey, their inspiration, and their work on and off the bench.

🔹 In this episode, you’ll hear about:

Part 1

• 🧖‍♀️ How Ashley & Gideon discovered the world of Aufguss – and how they met

• 🏛 Their connection to the Thermen Group (including Bussloo and Soesterberg)

• 🎭 Ashley’s creative process for developing sauna shows: from idea to execution

  
  

  Part 2

• 🇪🇪 Their role in coaching and building up the first Estonian Aufguss Championship

• 🌍 Their team performance for the Aufguss World Championship 2025

• ❗ A sneak peek into their new collective: Aufguss Bastards (no spoilers!)

Ashley gives us a look behind the curtain of sauna storytelling – showing how a concept becomes an immersive experience. Meanwhile, Gideon shares his perspective on collaboration, coaching, and the international Aufguss movement.

🔥 A must-listen for everyone who loves creativity, connection, and sauna culture.

Let the steam rise — and enjoy Episode 10 of Steam ’n’ Soul.

Best

Matze

In this episode of Steam ’n’ Soul, we welcome Ashley and Gideon from the Netherlands – crowned 2025 Dutch Show Aufguss Team Champions.

We dive deep into their story as Aufguss artists, partners, and creative minds. You’ll get powerful insights into their journey, their inspiration, and their work on and off the bench.

🔹 In this episode, you’ll hear about:

• 🧖‍♀️ How Ashley & Gideon discovered the world of Aufguss – and how they met

• 🏛 Their connection to the Thermen Group (Bussloo and Soesterberg)

• 🎭 Ashley’s creative process for developing sauna shows: from idea to execution

• 🇪🇪 Their role in coaching and building up the first Estonian Aufguss Championship

• 🌍 Their team performance for the Aufguss World Championship 2025

• ❗ A sneak peek into their new collective: AufgussBastards (no spoilers!)

Ashley gives us a look behind the curtain of sauna storytelling – showing how a concept becomes an immersive experience. Meanwhile, Gideon shares his perspective on collaboration, coaching, and the international Aufguss movement.

🔥 A must-listen for everyone who loves creativity, connection, and sauna culture.

Let the steam rise — and enjoy Episode 10 of Steam ’n’ Soul.

Best

Matze