The Den Ritual - A Social Wellness Club in ATX | TFG EP. 49
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 heâs 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 â like losing a loved one â 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 todayâs 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 Ginoâs deep personal journey, influenced by loss, transformation, and a desire to bring people together. Austinâs Unique Vibe: Austinâs vibrant, creative community serves as the perfect backdrop for Ginoâs 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 Website: https://www.morozkoforge.com/ Red Rocks Amphitheatre: Mentioned as a venue inspiration for creating experiences tied to natural elements. Website: https://www.redrocksonline.com/ Pure Yoga: Mentioned as a collaborator for yoga practitioners at The Den. Website: https://www.pureyogatexas.com/downtown-austin 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 Denâs journey and pre-membership launch: Instagram: @TheDenRitual(https://www.instagram.com/thedenritual) Sub and follow the podcast Spotify: â https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/twofunguyspodcastâ Instagram: â https://www.instagram.com/twofunguyspodcastâ TikTok: â https://www.tiktok.com/@twofunguyspodcastâ đą Don't forget to subscribe and leave a review wherever you get your podcasts! Social Media Handles and Influencers Mentioned