Our Team

David Perez is a successful entrepreneur who spent a decade researching global medical treatments for his son’s unique conditions. Driven by a passion for helping others live longer and healthier lives, David opened Hydrate Wellness (now Lumati) in 2022, a holistic care oasis in Encinitas, CA. By combining cutting-edge technology and world-class protocols, Lumati has successfully guided hundreds of clients to overcome health challenges and significantly improve their quality of life and health spans.

Ruta Laukien is Executive Director and Chairwoman of Lumati, advising on strategy, partnerships and growth. With over 15 years of experience spanning biotech and healthcare investing, M&A advisory and capital raising, law, and entrepreneurship, she has advised companies across the U.S., Europe, and emerging markets. A Duke University graduate holding a J.D., MBA, and LL.M., Ruta brings a rare combination of strategic vision, analytical rigor, and forward-thinking leadership to her work. Driven by a deep curiosity for nature, exploration, and human potential, Ruta is committed to advancing longevity and human performance science, helping shape a future where people don’t just live longer, but live better.

Over the past decade, Geylin Castillo has built a diverse career across operations, entrepreneurship, and wellness in North America and the EU. While studying Business Management, she launched a women’s loungewear brand. Around the same time, her mother’s diagnosis with Graves’ disease sparked a deep interest in holistic and preventative health, shaping her path forward. In 2022, Geylin closed her fashion brand and co-founded Lumati (formerly Hydrate Spa), marking her entry into health optimization. Since then, she has focused on building structured, high-standard, personalized wellness experiences centered on efficiency, execution, measurable outcomes, and a deep commitment to care. Beyond her professional work, Geylin has participated in international mission initiatives with the Seventh-day Adventist Church, supporting wellness education, community development, and church-building efforts.

Samuel Whiting is a leading human potential specialist focused on breathing, cold exposure, and nervous system optimization. As a certified Wim Hof Method Instructor and Breathe Coach, he integrates his expertise with cutting-edge research. He consults with the WHOOP Performance Science team and UCLA Sports Medicine on cold exposure studies, drawing insights from mentors like Dr. Jack Feldman, Kristen Holmes, and Dr. Andrew Huberman. Sam’s mission is to empower individuals with a practical and engaging approach to health, well-being, and longevity.

Gunnar is a proven financial leader with expertise in strategic planning, fundraising, M&A, and global operations, with a strong track record of driving growth, improving profitability, and leading high-impact transactions, including three company sales. He brings experience across both large corporate environments and fast-scaling startups and is a trusted advisor to boards and executive teams, with strong influence on strategic decision-making.

Drew Stacy is Executive Vice President at Lumati, bringing nearly two decades of hospitality leadership across luxury hotels, resorts, and boutique properties. Known for his collaborative, execution-focused approach, he helps teams solve complex operational challenges while preserving culture, creativity, and exceptional guest experiences.

Paul is a seasoned wellness executive who has spent more than 28 years shaping the global spa and wellness industry through his leadership at Spa Team International. Driven by a passion for creating transformative wellness experiences, Paul has led over 200 projects valued at more than $2 billion, partnering with premier hospitality brands including Westin, JW Marriott, and Kimpton. His work spans everything from concept and design to operational launch, supported by trusted relationships with more than 2,500 hotels and over 100 spa and wellness manufacturers worldwide. Through his dedication to innovation and excellence, Paul continues to help bring advanced wellness technologies and elevated care experiences to people around the world.

With 43 years of wide-ranging entrepreneurial business background, Darrell ultimately led to his passion for integrative healthcare. In 2019, a loved one was diagnosed with inoperable cancer. As her advocate at the largest integrative clinic in North America, he found there was much lacking in prevention and treatment. The constant pressing of the doctors against the status quo ultimately led the Medical Director to hire Darrell as Director of Operations. This experience exposed him to wellness treatments from across the globe.

Matthew Coan’s journey from Yacht Captain to wellness innovator is deeply personal. After a shoulder injury introduced him to regenerative therapies, he discovered a passion for cutting-edge health solutions. This led to co-founding Regenerative Research Group and, in 2023, meeting David Perez and Geylin Castillo. Matthew became instrumental in expanding their work and plays a key role in developing and researching advanced hydrogen and light therapy equipment, as well as regenerative protocols. Certified by the Molecular Hydrogen Institute, he combines entrepreneurial vision with firsthand experience to help others thrive through regenerative wellness.

For over a decade, Leah Hall has driven success for startups and leading action sports and athletic brands across diverse industries. From e-commerce to product management and data analytics, Leah has played a key role in scaling operations and sparking innovation to fuel transformative growth. With deep expertise in optimizing online platforms, sales strategies, and inventory systems, combined with her experience leading high-performance teams in dynamic environments, Leah’s passion for accessible wellness aligns seamlessly with Lumati’s vision and mission. Her strategic insight and collaborative approach empower Lumati to deliver cutting-edge health solutions and drive meaningful impact.