Jeremy McCarthy launches Leisure Alchemy

The hospitality veteran’s new venture is an intelligence platform for the leisure sector

Global

By Wendy Golledge

26 May 2026

www.leisurealchemy.com/

Jeremy McCarthy, a recognised leader in hospitality who has worked for brands including Mandarin Oriental and Four Seasons, has announced the launch of his new venture.

Leisure Alchemy is a digital intelligence platform for the wellness, hospitality and leisure sectors. McCarthy will create a weekly briefing providing intelligence, inspiration and strategic advice.

Described as ‘an ongoing, peer-to-peer conversation for the architects of the leisure experience’, Leisure Alchemy will be delivered weekly.

Its content will be dedicated to understanding the human behaviour that drives leisure experiences and the business strategies required to deliver them profitably.

“In the modern world, we are busier than ever; free time is scarce and precious. Consumers are looking for ways to convert their down time into meaningful, memorable experiences. Leisure Alchemy was created to decode the science of transformational leisure experiences and the business of how we enable them.”

Jeremy McCarthy

Founder of Leisure Alchemy

“We are at a critical inflection point where innovation and AI give us a unique opportunity to dramatically expand human discretionary time,” continues McCarthy.

“Our vision is to empower people to enrich their free time with experiences that are genuinely meaningful and fulfilling.

“Leisure Alchemy strives to be the intelligence layer for the leisure, wellness and hospitality leaders building that future.”

Up close selfie of a man with sunset view behind him — McCarthy's work spans brands including Mandarin Oriental, Four Seasons and Starwood Hotels.

Addressing operational realities

McCarthy has an academic background in applied positive psychology. His operational experience includes more than three decades overseeing the design, development and day-to-day operations of luxury resort and wellness experiences.

The name Leisure Alchemy reflects its core philosophy. ‘Leisure’ represents the goal of converting free time into transformational experiences. ‘Alchemy’ acknowledges the complex business reality of turning that goal into a profitable, scalable operations.

Content will be organised into five thematic hubs:

Philosophy and culture – the why
Science and psychology – the how
Business and strategy – the bottom line
Innovation and design – what’s next
Destinations and communities – the where

McCarthy will also distribute a deep-dive essay – the Alchemist’s Notes – monthly, exploring a single idea. In addition, Leisure Alchemy will provide strategic advisory services to luxury hospitality brands.

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