In this episode, I sit down with Nathan Huegel, a local business owner who, along with his wife, has launched The Studio in Dunedin—a facility offering sauna and cold plunge therapy. We discuss Nathan’s journey from playing baseball at East Lake High School to becoming an entrepreneur focused on health and community.
Nathan shares how the resilience he built through sports has shaped his approach to wellness and how The Studio has become a gathering place for those looking to improve their well-being. Tune in to hear about the benefits of contrast therapy and the power of community in personal growth.
Listen to the episode here
In our latest podcast episode, I had the absolute pleasure of catching up with an old friend and community member, Nathan Huegel. Nathan isn’t just someone you might recognize from around town—he’s now a business owner, making waves with his new venture, The Studio. If you haven’t heard, The Studio is a sauna and cold plunge facility right here in Dunedin, and it’s quickly becoming a go-to spot for folks looking to boost their health and well-being.
From East Lake High School to The Studio: Nathan’s Journey
Nathan’s story is one that many of us can relate to—a local kid who grew up, moved on to do different things, and then found his way back home. We actually go way back to our days at East Lake High School. Nathan was a few years ahead of me, and while I didn’t get the chance to play baseball alongside him, I always admired the camaraderie he shared with his teammates. When I asked Nathan what stood out most from those baseball days, his answer was simple: the community.
For Nathan, playing baseball at East Lake wasn’t just about the sport—it was about the group of guys he grew up with, the lifelong friendships, and the sense of belonging that came from being part of a team. This idea of community, of people coming together and supporting each other, has clearly stayed with him. And it’s something he’s carried forward into his business.
The Studio: A Sanctuary for Health and Wellness
So, what exactly is The Studio? Well, Nathan and his wife took a leap of faith in May 2023 when they signed the lease for their new venture. After a few months of rolling up their sleeves and doing much of the work themselves, they opened the doors in November. What they’ve created is more than just a place to break a sweat—it’s a sanctuary for anyone looking to improve their mental and physical health.
At The Studio, you’ll find sauna and cold plunge services, which some folks refer to as Nordic-style sauna or contrast therapy. If you’re new to the concept, here’s the gist: you start by heating up in the sauna, then cool down with a plunge into cold water. This back-and-forth between hot and cold offers a range of benefits, from boosting your immune system to improving your mood.
For Nathan, though, the biggest takeaway has been stress resilience. He describes the practice as a way to intentionally challenge your body, helping you get comfortable with being uncomfortable. And let’s be honest, who couldn’t use a little more resilience these days?
Creating a Community of Wellness
One of the most inspiring parts of Nathan’s story is how organically the community around The Studio has grown. Nathan and his wife didn’t have to go out and search for people—those who shared their vision just naturally gravitated to them. Their four employees, for example, all started as members. They fell in love with the space, the practice, and the sense of community, and now they’re part of the team.
Nathan’s experience with building this community ties back to something deeper. Before starting The Studio, Nathan spent time at Kawari Studios in Tampa, a place known for its strong sense of community and holistic approach to health. It was there that Nathan and his wife first got into sauna and cold plunge therapy. The positive, supportive environment they found at Kawari left a lasting impression, inspiring them to create something similar in Dunedin.
Nathan is quick to point out that none of this would be possible without the incredible people who’ve come into their lives. From their first member to their newest employee, it’s clear that The Studio is more than just a business—it’s a gathering place for people who want to better themselves and support others in doing the same.
The Path to Personal Growth
Nathan’s commitment to personal growth didn’t begin with The Studio. Like many of us, he’s faced his share of challenges. After going through a tough period in his life, including a divorce, Nathan realized he needed to start taking better care of himself—physically, mentally, and spiritually.
This journey of self-care led him to establish a daily routine that includes regular exercise, healthy eating, and spiritual practices. He also made the tough but transformative decision to cut out alcohol, which he credits as one of the biggest game-changers in his life.
Nathan’s approach to personal development is refreshingly straightforward: make small, consistent improvements every day. Whether it’s reading a new book, getting outside for a walk, or spending quality time with family, Nathan believes in the power of small steps to create big changes over time.
Why It All Comes Down to Community
If there’s one thing that stands out in my conversation with Nathan, it’s the importance of community. Whether it’s the team at The Studio, the people who show up day in and day out to better themselves, or the broader Dunedin community, Nathan’s story is a testament to the power of coming together.
He’s also quick to remind us that building something meaningful—whether it’s a business, a community, or a healthier lifestyle—doesn’t happen overnight. It takes time, effort, and a lot of support from those around you. And that’s okay. In fact, it’s what makes the journey worthwhile.
Come Visit The Studio
If you’re curious about what sauna and cold plunge therapy can do for you, or if you’re just looking for a new way to take care of your health, Nathan and his team at The Studio would love to welcome you. They’re located in the Dunedin Causeway Plaza, right next to Madison Avenue Pizza, and they’re open seven days a week.
Address:
2664 Bayshore Boulevard, Dunedin, FL 34698
Hours:
Monday – Sunday: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Final Thoughts
Nathan Huegel’s journey from a local kid with a love for baseball to a business owner dedicated to health and community is nothing short of inspiring. Whether you’re a long-time resident of Dunedin or new to the area, The Studio offers a unique opportunity to connect with others, improve your well-being, and become part of a community that’s all about growth and support.
If you’re ready to take the plunge—literally—head over to The Studio and see what it’s all about. Who knows? You might just find the community and resilience you’ve been looking for.
CONNECT WITH NATHAN:
- Website: www.thestudiosauna.com
- Instagram: @thestudiodunedin
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/TheStudio
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- Follow Donnie: @donnie.hathaway
- Follow Palm Harbor Local: @PalmHarborLocal
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