An Interview With Eda Karul: A Journey of Creativity, Wellness, and Entrepreneurship
Eda Karul’s life is a study in following curiosity wherever it leads. From managing a rising music star to crafting children’s stories and creating a global wellness brand, she has built a career that defies neat categorization. “I’ve always been drawn to too many things to stay in one lane,” she admits with a laugh. Her approach isn’t about juggling unrelated passions; it’s about weaving them together into something cohesive and personal, a reflection of her boundless energy and imagination.
Born and raised in Pamukkale, Turkey, Eda grew up surrounded by the beauty of the natural world. The white travertine terraces of her hometown weren’t just a local landmark—they became a source of inspiration. “Every time I touched those terraces, I felt like I was touching the boundless depth of creation,” she says. It’s a connection that shaped her worldview and continues to influence her creative and professional pursuits.
Music was the first of many passions to take hold. “The moment I heard the sound of the piano at my first vocal lesson, I knew music would be a part of my future,” she says. But while music remained a constant, Eda’s early career took a different direction. She began in investment banking before transitioning to journalism, writing about economics and business. It wasn’t until the pandemic that she made a bold shift, centering music in her life and diving into artist management.
That leap led her to Xander Pratt, a multi-talented performer and her first client. Their connection, however, wasn’t random; it came through her late mentor, Matthew Barrett. “Matthew met Xander in Marrakesh and introduced us,” she recalls. “The moment I heard Xander’s music, I told him, ‘You’re a superstar.’” Managing Pratt isn’t just a professional venture—it’s also a deeply personal way of honoring Barrett’s legacy. “When Xander steps into a room, you feel the energy of a real artist. It’s inspiring to work with someone so talented.”
Eda approaches the competitive music industry with a blend of optimism and realism. “The music industry is like a vast ocean,” she says. “To succeed, you need authenticity, a strong identity, and cultural sensitivity. Music has this incredible way of connecting people, but only if it comes from a genuine place.”
While music has been a cornerstone of her life, Eda’s creativity extends well beyond it. Her children’s book series, “Buttercup and Marina”, debuted in July 2024 and is already capturing young readers’ imaginations. The series follows Buttercup, a sea elephant, and her best friend Marina as they navigate themes of kindness, friendship, and environmental awareness.
“Buttercup is a new playmate for children,” Eda says, her enthusiasm lighting up. “Through their adventures, I want to inspire kids to value nature and develop empathy for the world around them.” Her ambitions for the series don’t stop with books; she’s working on an animated adaptation and planning global events for children in Turkey, the U.S., Thailand, and India.
In recent years, wellness has also become a major focus for Eda. Inspired by a Nashville mother of three who used cold plunge therapy to transform her mornings, she began exploring holistic health practices. “Watching her commit to her well-being while balancing family life made me think: What is this, and how can I bring it to others?” she says.
The result is the Manhattan Wellness Club, a space dedicated to practices like cold plunges and the Wim Hof Method. “At Manhattan Wellness Club, we want people to feel as comfortable as they do at home,” she explains. “Wellness isn’t just about physical health; it’s about creating a space for transformation. I want to meet people where they are and help them find balance in their lives.”
Eda’s career has been shaped by the guidance of mentors, particularly Matthew Barrett, whose influence is woven through every aspect of her work. “Matthew taught me the importance of authenticity and passion,” she says. “His belief in me gave me the confidence to take risks and follow my instincts. His guidance is something I carry with me every day.”
Looking ahead, Eda is focused on expanding her wellness brand, turning *Buttercup and Marina* into a film, and creating music that resonates on a global scale. “Each of these dreams feels deeply connected to who I am,” she says. “I want to create things that inspire people, whether it’s through art, music, or wellness.”
When asked what advice she’d give to others pursuing their own dreams, Eda’s response is both practical and heartfelt. “Start with a clear vision. Know what you’re passionate about and what impact you want to make. Surround yourself with people who inspire you, and don’t be afraid to take risks,” she says. “Every setback is an opportunity to learn and grow. Stay curious and open to whatever life brings.”
