Saunas have been part of human culture for thousands of years, but in this episode, we dive into what makes a sauna truly good, not just hot. In Episode 81, I sat down with Stephen Gill of Earthborn Nordic Saunas to talk about traditional Finnish sauna design, sustainable materials, and why sauna culture is as much about connection and community as it is about heat and recovery.
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What Defines a Traditional Finnish Sauna
Stephen breaks down the core principles of a true Finnish sauna, including large rock mass, multi-tiered benches, full insulation from floor to ceiling, and proper ventilation. These elements work together to create smooth, even heat that can be adjusted with steam, rather than harsh, dry heat coming straight from metal elements.
Traditional saunas aren’t just about temperature, they’re about feel. The ability to throw water on hot rocks and control humidity is what creates the experience people have been using for centuries.
Why Rock Mass Matters More Than Most People Think
One of the biggest mistakes Stephen sees in modern saunas is too little rock mass. Heating the rocks, not the air, creates consistent, comfortable heat that stays longer even after the heater cycles off. Some of the saunas Stephen builds contain hundreds of pounds of rock, which completely changes how the heat moves through the space.
This approach avoids the sharp, aggressive heat found in poorly designed saunas and replaces it with something far more enjoyable and sustainable.
From Construction to Craftsmanship
Stephen’s background in construction management and general building laid the foundation for Earthborn Nordic Saunas, but his approach goes far beyond basic construction. Each sauna is custom designed, built in a local shop, and transported fully assembled when possible.
Materials are intentionally chosen, from Western Red Cedar interiors to hemp-based insulation that performs better with heat and moisture. Wherever possible, Stephen works with Montana-based suppliers and craftspeople, keeping the entire process local and intentional.
Sauna, Cold, and the Power of Community
Beyond the physical health benefits, this conversation dives deep into the social side of sauna culture. Stephen shares how sauna creates space for real connection, phones off, conversations open, and people present.
Whether it’s post-ski recovery, gathering friends for a meal after sauna, or simply slowing down, sauna becomes a shared experience. As Stephen puts it, sauna isn’t just a noun, it’s a verb. It includes heat, cold, rest, hydration, and connection.
Designing for Montana Living
Earthborn Nordic Saunas are built with Montana’s climate in mind, from snow load and wind direction to accessibility and year-round use. Stephen talks through how site orientation, insulation, and bench design all play a role in making saunas usable in real mountain environments.
As sauna culture continues to grow in Montana, Stephen’s goal is to build saunas that last, feel right, and stay rooted in tradition rather than trends.
Learn More
To learn more about Earthborn Nordic Saunas, explore their work, or reach out about a custom build, visit:
https://earthbornsauna.com
This episode is part of Mountain Mule Media, a production of Mountain Mule Transportation.
To learn more about Mountain Mule’s transportation services for weddings, events, airport transfers, and nights out, visit:
https://mountain-mule.com
