Meet the Founders

Cat Bryson's passion for health and wellness is deeply rooted, stemming from her time as a college soccer player for Dartmouth and with the Women's US Youth National Team. Beyond her athletic prowess, she boasts an impressive corporate pedigree, having served as Director of Human Resources at Sara Lee. This unique blend of athleticism and HR expertise empowers Cat with a keen insight into team dynamics, employment laws, and client loyalty - traits indispensable to potential franchisees. Her commitment to fitness further manifested as she transitioned into a CrossFit athlete and coach, culminating in the creation of an innovative training program at Prairie Life, a testament to her knack for spotting gaps and innovating.

Her personal journey with infrared saunas, coupled with her genuine belief in their transformative effects on mental and physical health, is the very ethos upon which sēk Sauna Studio stands. As the heart of sēk, Cat envisions her bond with franchisees as familial. This isn’t merely a business for Cat; it’s about fostering wellness across the board, ensuring both the clientele and each sēk Sauna Studio thrive holistically. Backing this is her unwavering commitment to staying abreast with the latest in wellness, making her an adventurous early adopter and a beacon for the latest trends.

Yet, beyond her accomplishments and dedication, Cat remains relatable. Outside the sphere of wellness, she finds solace in training, exploring new restaurants and concert-going with her husband, and indulging in the occasional reality TV escapade or People Magazine issue. And at the end of a long day, nothing beats quality time with her three kids and John. With Cat at the helm, franchisees aren’t just investing in a business; they’re joining a family that prioritizes well-being, innovation, and mutual growth.

John is more than just an accomplished professional; he's a genuine enthusiast of life. With family at his core, he passionately balances his roles as a husband, sports enthusiast, and lover of classic vinyl records. Known to often share stories of his live concert experiences, John's warmth shines through when he recounts fond memories or introduces someone to a memorable track. Earning an MBA from Vanderbilt University while nurturing family bonds demonstrated not just his drive but his heart.

From managing elite hospitality venues to his days as a professional sommelier, John understands the beauty of moments and the joy in details. Every venture, every role, has been about enhancing experiences, whether it's for a guest at a five-star hotel or a patron at sēk Sauna Studio. Inspired by the wisdom of figures like Steve Jobs, Martin Luther King Jr., and Tony Hsieh, John champions a leadership style that’s rooted in listening, inclusivity, and collaboration. He always believes the best ideas arise from shared insights.

But perhaps John’s most defining journey has been alongside Cat, his wife. Together, they traversed the U.S., experiencing the therapeutic allure of infrared saunas. This shared passion led to the birth of sēk Sauna Studio. To those who know him, John's earnestness and genuine desire to promote well-being make him not just a leader in the wellness sector, but also a cherished friend and trusted guide.

Lisa Brantley, sēk Sauna Studio's dynamic Director of Studio Excellence, embodies the ethos of balance between nature, health, and community. Her personal adventures traversing Tennessee's outdoors, alongside her partner, teenage daughter, and three canine companions, echo her commitment to holistic well-being. A passionate advocate for natural living, she often disconnects from the digital world to recenter, further exemplifying her commitment as part of a volunteer organization dedicated to mountain bike trail development. Drawing from her rich experience spanning over a decade in the healthcare sector, Lisa transitioned from the corporate world, driven by the urge to make a tangible difference. With roles in pharmaceutical specialty sales, project management, business development, and even as a CrossFit coach, she amasses a wealth of knowledge about holistic wellness and the myriad modalities of care.

Lisa's management mantra is rooted in education. She fervently believes that understanding the 'why' is pivotal for sustained commitment, both for the team she mentors and the clients they serve. Her personal involvement in sēk's services, both as a mode of self-care and as an instrument of change in the lives of many, speaks volumes about her dedication. As she juggles the myriad roles of a business leader, fitness enthusiast, and dedicated parent, Lisa's journey with sēk has not only empowered her personal growth but has also shaped the studio into a beacon of transformation for its clients. Prospective franchisees would find in Lisa, not just an astute professional, but also a relatable figure championing wellness, community, and continuous learning.