Alchemy Social with Sujean
Alchemy Social with Sujean
Podcast Description
Immerse yourself in the magic of in-person experiences. In each podcast episode, Sujean sits down with the founders and creatives who are shaping our experiential world - from iconic restaurants and events, to immersive retail and travel. Uncover the hidden details and business insights that make an experience unforgettable. And learn about the personal setbacks and bold reinventions that have led to inspiring careers. Part travel show, part brand strategy, part blueprint for reinvention, Alchemy Social is for anyone seeking better experiences, whether on your next trip or your next life chapter.
Podcast Insights
Content Themes
The podcast focuses on innovation in in-person experiences, including topics such as immersive dining, event curation, and experiential retail. Episodes dissect concepts like the no-menu dining experience at Blue Hill and how tech can foster real connections through events, exploring the intersection of creativity and business.
Immerse yourself in the magic of in-person experiences. In each podcast episode, Sujean sits down with the founders and creatives who are shaping our experiential world – from iconic restaurants and events, to immersive retail and travel. Uncover the hidden details and business insights that make an experience unforgettable. And learn about the personal setbacks and bold reinventions that have led to inspiring careers. Part travel show, part brand strategy, part blueprint for reinvention, Alchemy Social is for anyone seeking better experiences, whether on your next trip or your next life chapter.
New York City has no shortage of members clubs. But only one has decided to go completely alcohol-free, and to make connection among its members the entire focus.
Join Sujean in the studio for a conversation with Justin Gurland, founder and owner of the Maze, New York’s first sober members club. Opened in Flatiron in November 2025, The Maze has a food and beverage program overseen by celebrity chef Tom Colicchio, and offers its members diverse programming most nights of the week – from mahjong and trivia to breathwork and speakers – all in a beautifully designed space.
Justin’s own story is inseparable from what he has built. Once a heroin addict, he’s now nearly two decades sober. Through his career as a social worker and therapist, he realized the power of community to heal, which in turn inspired him to open the Maze.
In this episode of Alchemy Social, Sujean and Justin discuss:
- Why community is so important for anyone on the recovery path, and why simply removing the substance isn’t enough;
- What a members club is able to deliver that consumers might not gain from a public meeting space like a café;
- How removing alcohol from the experience may actually make it easier for members to form deeper connection;
- Lessons from recovery that are applicable to anyone seeking community; and
- The one piece of advice Justin would give anyone trying to build a community-based business.
Whether you’re an entrepreneur, sober-curious, or simply looking for more meaningful ways to connect with others, this conversation is for you.
Follow Sujean and Alchemy Social:
- Newsletter: Alchemy Social
- Instagram: @sujeansong
- YouTube: @sujeansong
Thank you for being here.
Disclaimer
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