Today we’d like to introduce you to Mary Fagan.
Mary, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
Curiosity has been a constant in my life, and I’ve always wanted to see and experience as much as I could. I grew up with a powerhouse of a mom who raised six kids on her own. Watching her, I learned early on about grit, independence, and resilience.
After college, I joined the Peace Corps in Botswana, where I spent several years immersed in the culture, building connections, and learning new ways of seeing the world. When my service ended, I continued traveling on my own through Southern Africa, chasing that same sense of discovery and curiosity. Those experiences gave me so much — new languages, new cultures, and new perspectives — but when I came back, I wasn’t sure how to channel that energy and continue to feel fulfilled in my day-to-day life.
My mom, who at 55 launched her own staffing agency and absolutely knocked it out of the park, gave me a chance to work with her. I started out helping her clients and eventually moved into the office as a recruiter. That’s where I found my niche — I became known as the person who could connect with candidates for whom English was a second language. It wasn’t something I had ever imagined doing, but it grounded me, gave me structure, and taught me a tremendous amount. Eventually, we even opened a second staffing agency, which I ran for ten years.
Fast forward to now: I reached the age my mom was when she started her business, and I began asking myself, “What’s next? How can I challenge myself and create a bigger life?” At the time, I was working in HR remotely for a large corporation, but my life felt small. I missed seeing and meeting new people.
As I reflected on what I would enjoy, I kept coming back to health and wellness. I’ve always been drawn to ways of feeling strong, vibrant, and youthful — and I knew I didn’t want to just accept the signs of aging without doing something about them. For me, it’s been incredible to experience the benefits of light therapy firsthand — supporting my own longevity while being able to share those same benefits with the community. That perspective, combined with my love for people, naturally led me to open a wellness studio — a space where I could focus on innovative ways to help people look younger, feel stronger, and live better.
If I had to name one of my biggest strengths that really serves me in this industry, it’s that I’m truly curious. I love asking questions, learning about people, and digging into the science of what helps the body heal and thrive.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Not at all. One of my biggest challenges came even before I became a business owner — learning how to be content where I was. As a younger adult, I was always chasing the idea that the grass was greener somewhere else, looking for the next adventure. Over time, my inner dialogue shifted from “Where can I go?” to “I find it fascinating right where I am, because it’s all about human connections.” That personal transformation — learning to be present — shaped how I approach both life and business today.
When it came to opening my studio, there were plenty of challenges too. Even with a franchise behind me, launching a new location came with a steep learning curve. Marketing, operations, and simply getting the word out about a brand-new health and wellness concept all took persistence and creativity. But what’s made it worthwhile has been the community in Edina — welcoming members, hearing their stories, and watching how light therapy is truly transforming their lives.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your business?
At Beem Light Sauna, we specialize in advanced infrared and light-based therapies that support whole-body wellness. Our healing modalities—including infrared saunas, red light therapy, and our newest advanced light therapy bed—offer a wide range of benefits, from cellular regeneration and detoxification to pain relief, improved circulation, skin rejuvenation, reduced stress, and a natural boost in energy and mood.
What sets us apart is the experience we create. We’re not just offering a service; we’re providing a safe, supportive space where people can heal, recharge, and reconnect with themselves. We take pride in combining state-of-the-art technology with genuine care, education, and a welcoming environment that makes every visit feel personal and meaningful.
Brand-wise, I’m most proud that Beem has become known for both results and community. Our clients trust us because they see and feel real improvements in their health and well-being—but also because they know we truly care about their journey.
Most importantly, our therapies promote longevity and lasting vitality, helping people stay healthier and live with more balance, energy, and resilience. Whether it’s reducing stress, lifting mood, or supporting long-term wellness goals, our mission is to help each person feel and function at their best.
If we knew you growing up, how would we have described you?
Growing up was both challenging and full of incredible experiences. I was the middle child in a big, lively family with two brothers and three sisters. My parents met at the University of Wisconsin–Madison, where my dad played football and my mom was known for her intelligence and beauty. Losing my father at 12 had a lasting impact, but my mom held us together and kept us grounded. She enrolled us in every sport or program she could find, and we constantly challenged each other—cartwheels, backflips, swimming the farthest. That competitive spirit shaped me, and while today pickleball is my only sport, it gave me a lifelong passion for athletics.
That’s why I sponsor the Minnesota Aurora Women’s Soccer Team. I wanted their players to have the same recovery and performance tools men often get, so I opened my studio to them. It became a place where they could bond as a team while using infrared sauna and red light therapy to support recovery and enhance performance throughout their season. Sharing in their victories was incredibly rewarding.
My mom always encouraged me to travel, take risks, and embrace life before settling down. Although she’s no longer here, her influence guides me—I still ask myself, “What would Mom do?” I followed her advice, and today I’m blessed with a beautiful son and have been happily married for 22 years.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.beemlightsauna.com/location/edina
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beem.edina.mn/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/beemlightsaunaedina/
