Episode 61 – Sonal Uberoi: Rethinking Wellness in Hospitality

In this inspiring episode of the Conscious Hospitality Podcast, host David Arraya sits down with Sonal Uberoi, founder of Spa Balance Consulting and a global expert in wellness strategy, spa management, and sustainable business transformation.

Sonal’s unique journey—from growing up in Kenya, pursuing a law degree, and working in high finance at Goldman Sachs to ultimately building a purpose-driven career in the wellness and hospitality space—is a powerful example of personal growth, intentional leadership, and redefining success on your own terms.

Together, David and Sonal explore the evolution of the wellness industry, the increasing demand for holistic well-being in luxury hospitality, and the strategic role of wellness in driving business performance. Sonal shares lessons from her 15+ years of experience leading wellness integration in hotels and spas around the world, emphasizing the importance of authentic leadership, cultural alignment, and long-term vision.

This episode is a must-listen for hotel general managers, wellness consultants, and leaders seeking to elevate their impact in the hospitality industry. You’ll also hear about Sonal’s acclaimed book The Wellness Asset, her ESSENCE model, and how she helps GMs build future-ready wellness businesses.

Takeaways:

• Wellness is not a trend—it's a cultural shift reshaping the hospitality industry.

• Great wellness programs begin with clarity of purpose and emotional intelligence.

• Leaders must evolve their mindset to prioritize sustainable well-being over short-term ROI.

• The spa is not the whole story—wellness is a brand philosophy, not just a department.

• There is a leadership gap in the wellness space that presents a powerful opportunity.

Sound Bites:

• “Wellness is here—and it’s here to stay.”

• “Get clear on your certainty of purpose.”

• “What is the impact you want to make?”

Chapters:

00:00 – Introduction to Sonal Uberoi
02:02 – Sonal's Early Life and Family Background
06:00 – Education and Career Beginnings
08:42 – Transition from Law to Finance
14:25 – The Shift to Wellness and Spa Industry
19:43 – Observations in the Spa and Wellness World
25:58 – Establishing Spa Balance Consulting
30:32 – Current Landscape of Wellness in Hospitality
34:32 – Challenges in Wellness Leadership
41:16 – The Future of Wellness in Hospitality
47:06 – Working with Sonal: The Wellness Asset Academy
48:40 – Key Tips for GMs to Enhance Wellness Programs
54:14 – Sonal’s Vision for the Future of Wellness

Keywords:
wellness, hospitality, spa management, Sonal Uberoi, Spa Balance Consulting, wellness industry, leadership, sustainable business, The Wellness Asset, conscious hospitality, personal growth, wellness coaching