Posted by Gabi Thomas
on September 21, 2026
Greg Macdonald, Founder of Bathorium
What’s one unexpected career turn that led you to where you are today?
Shortly after the pandemic began in 2020, Bathorium was in trouble. We were a small business, and our retail and spa distribution fell flat as locations closed. I was ready to turn off the lights. Then, in April, I received an email from a customer who shared how much bathing had helped her through that time. She’d barely used her tub until someone gifted her a Bathorium soak, and she was hooked. It gave her a routine, a sense of normalcy, and a quiet sanctuary with her entire family back under one roof. That email changed my perspective on what Bathorium was and what it could be. From that moment on, I knew we were selling more than just bath salts.
What’s your personal wellness non-negotiable?
Quiet mornings. I don’t like waking up feeling rushed or to the sound of an alarm. I get up, exercise, walk my dog, and enjoy my coffee in peace. Then I can begin my day feeling my best.
What’s the thing people always seem to come to you for?
Food! I love cooking. Making someone happy with a good meal—or even a snack—is a love language for me.
What’s one wellness trend you think is here to stay, or one you see coming next?
Sleep hacking. We’re paying more attention to how we sleep, using data to understand our patterns, and recognizing how much sleep affects every other part of our lives. The right tools and small changes to our routines can make a profound difference.
What are you loving right now and telling everyone about?
Silo on Apple TV! Such an underrated show.
If you could wake up at any spa in the world tomorrow, where would you be, and what would you book first?
Likuliku in Fiji or Basin Spa in Lake Louise. On cold days, I close my eyes and mentally transport myself back there.
What does your perfect day off look like?
A fall hike in Banff/Canmore, Alberta, with my dog and good friends, followed by a visit to Basin Spa and the biggest glass of Barolo possible in front of a fire.
If you had five minutes with another spa professional, what would you teach them?
Talk to your guests after their service and ask what could have been done differently. Guests often notice things that aren’t obvious to the spa team, and those details can make a huge difference to their experience. There isn’t always an opportunity to share that feedback at checkout, so make space for the conversation.
What’s something you think the spa + wellness industry should be talking about more?
Keeping spa experiences accessible. We can’t let spa culture become elitist. We need to bridge the gap with simpler offerings and more affordable options that welcome people with tighter budgets.
What’s something you could use a little help with right now?
My golf swing! I’m new to the sport, and while I love the experience—and the fashion—I’m currently the king of the sand trap.
If you see me at Spark, come talk to me about Ways to support organizations rescuing dogs from the dog meat trade abroad… and luxury bath rituals!
IN 3 WORDS
How would others describe you professionally in three words?
Creative • Passionate • Gregzilla (pre-coffee)
How would your friends describe you personally in three words?
Loyal • Loving/Caring • Determined
QUICK PICKS
- 🎨 Favorite color: Cerulean Blue (Thank you DWP)
- 🍽️ Favorite food: Chicken Noodle Soup & Green Juice
- 🌎 Favorite destination: Japan
- 🐾 Favorite animal: Racoons (so cute!)
- ✨ Astrological sign: Leo
- 🎵 Favorite song: The River by Garth Brooks (I even have a lyrical tattoo!)
- 😈 Guilty pleasure: Dark chocolate-covered almonds and twangy old-school country music.
FAVORITE QUOTE
“The best way to predict the future is to create it.”
ONE LAST THING
What’s something most people wouldn’t know about you? I secretly love playing Starcraft.
Make sure to say hi to Greg at Spark 2026 and connect with him on LinkedIn, you can also shop Bathorium at Live Love Spa.
