Episode #13 - Robbie Bent

#15MinuteFounder

Join us in this exciting catch up with Robbie Bent, co-founder and CEO of Othership.

He takes us inside the first immersive sauna and ice bath spaces in North America, designed to enhance emotional wellness and foster healthy social interactions.

Don’t miss this deep dive into an innovative venture reshaping the wellness landscape!

Highlights

What exactly is Othership, and can you explain what a “stadium sauna” is with a stove space bigger than a Cybertruck?

Othership is essentially a social bathhouse and wellness space that revolves around heat and cold experiences. Think of a stadium sauna as a performance venue compressed into the largest sauna in the US.

It’s custom-built with subwoofers under the wood, intense lighting, and six heaters that get the sauna to temperatures between 180-195°F.

In this space, guides lead performances, combining music, aromatherapy, towel waving, and even meditation and breathwork. It’s designed to replace nightlife experiences centered around alcohol with something playful and healthy.

Is it really the largest sauna in the US? And what about the cold experience?

Yes, it’s the largest sauna in the US. As for the cold experience, we offer sunken ice baths in New York, with varying temperatures from 36°F to 44°F.

The goal is to make it challenging but manageable, creating an intense experience that connects people going through it together. The combination of hot and cold experiences reduces social anxiety and helps people bond in a unique way.

It sounds like you’ve created a space that replaces typical alcohol-driven social experiences. Is that how the name Othership came about?

The name “Othership” reflects both the idea of a journey—wellness and self-discovery—and the idea of shared human experiences.

Our logo is a spinning top, the oldest toy in the world, which ties into the idea that wellness can be playful. Othership is about creating a community space where people can evolve, whether in friendships, relationships, or personal growth, and do it together.

Let’s get a bit tactical: some might say saunas are just a wellness trend. What are the actual benefits of heat therapy, both physical and spiritual?

Science has long proven the benefits of sauna use—reduced cardiovascular disease, lower Alzheimer’s risk, and overall longevity. But we don’t focus on that in our marketing.

People come to Othership to disconnect, put their phones away, and connect with others. It’s more about the social and emotional experience than biohacking. The sauna mimics exercise by putting your body under stress, causing detoxification through sweat and a sense of well-being.

Okay, I’m sold on the sauna! What about cold exposure—ice plunges? What’s the science behind that?

For me, the biggest benefit of cold exposure is stress reduction. It’s an instant way to feel present and alive. Cold plunges boost neurotransmitters like dopamine and norepinephrine, responsible for focus and clarity.

People who have ADHD or a history of substance abuse, like myself, find cold exposure a healthy way to stimulate the body and mind. While there are other benefits like boosting immunity and reducing inflammation, for me, it’s mainly about the stress relief and clarity it provides.

It’s clear you’re building something you’re passionate about. Othership is venture-backed, which implies a big vision. What’s your moonshot goal for Othership?

We started in my backyard with a DIY setup and friends, and now we’re open in New York’s Flatiron District.

The vision is to create a space where people can come together, connect, and improve their emotional well-being without needing alcohol.

We’ve hosted everything from breathwork classes to live DJ performances and sober parties.

Long-term, we want to expand Othership to every major city, creating spaces where people can connect deeply and grow together.

You mentioned how challenging the journey has been—doubling your budget, dealing with construction setbacks. What keeps you going?

Initially, there was some ego involved—wanting to prove we could do this on a grand stage. But as we faced challenges, it became about responsibility. We’re all in—my co-founders and I live in the same house in Williamsburg.

There’s a sense of accountability to our investors, customers, and employees. The passion I had at the beginning is still there, especially when I see how we’ve positively impacted people’s lives.

Given all the hard work, what habits or routines help you stay focused?

Honestly, my routines have gotten stripped down. I wake up, have black coffee, and dive into work. I’ve leaned into what needs to be done, even if it’s not glamorous.

I do try to get in three Othership sessions a week because the hot and cold keep me grounded. It’s hard balancing work, family, and everything else, but I’ve realized you just have to show up and do the work every day.

Finally, what advice would you give to aspiring entrepreneurs who might be on the fence about starting their own business?

My advice is to pick something you care deeply about because when things get tough, passion is what keeps you going. Also, think long-term.

Starting a business is a marathon, not a sprint, so choose something you can see yourself working on for five, ten, or even 20 years. If you can commit to the journey, the rewards are worth it.

Time stamps

00:16 – What is Othership?

01:43 – The Cold Experience

02:43 – What Does Othership Stand For?

03:54 – The Benefits of Hot Therapy

06:15 – The Benefits of Cold Exposure

08:26 – The Evolution of Othership

12:18 – Money, Power, Pleasure, or Fame

16:09 – A Typical Day

20:44 – Productivity Hacks

23:27 – An Important Truth

26:23 – The Impact of Othership

28:10 – Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs