In this episode of The Strong as F#CK Podcast, Kenny Santucci talks with Cyndi Ramirez-Fulton, founder and CEO of Chillhouse, a self-care spa & wellness cafe in the heart of Soho. Cyndi shares her entrepreneurial journey, from starting a blog to creating the unique Chillhouse brand in New York City's challenging landscape. They discuss the trials and tribulations of running a brick-and-mortar business, navigating the complexities of the health department, and pivoting during the pandemic. 

Cyndi also opens up about balancing business with family life, making thoughtful decisions on brand evolution, and finding peace in Miami. Don't miss out on this insightful conversation about resilience, creativity, and business growth!

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

01:37 Starting a Business in New York

02:40 Challenges of Running a Physical Space

05:38 Navigating COVID-19

06:49 Pivoting the Business Model

08:40 Product Development Journey

16:51 Partnership Dynamics and Personal Insights

21:01 Expanding Business Ventures

21:41 Doubling Down on Success

22:01 Balancing Creativity and Replication

23:58 Navigating New Opportunities

25:24 Brand Refresh and Audience Engagement

26:57 Wellness and Lifestyle Choices

29:56 Parenting in the Digital Age

36:33 Future Plans and Reflections

39:56 Closing Remarks and Contact Information

Born and raised in New York City, Cyndi Ramirez-Fulton is the founder & CEO of self-care brand, Chillhouse. She is also the First Lady of hospitality brand, The Garret Group, where her husband is the founding partner. 

Chillhouse was born when Ramirez-Fulton realized the city didn’t offer an aspirational massage place that was affordable. Reflecting on her upbringing as the daughter of an esthetician, Cyndi opened Chillhouse is 2017 in Manhattan’s Lower East Side and was immediately remarked as one of the most innovative wellness brands of that time. Chillhouse currently has a flagship in Soho which offers a suite of spa services. In addition to their physical destination, Chillhouse has a line of products ranging from press-ons to body care. The brand is carried by the likes of Target, Saks, Urban Outfitters, Shopbop & more. 

Ramirez has been honored on Create & Cultivate's 100 list, WWD’s 40 of Tomorrow, Nylon’s Inventor of the Year, Guest of a Guest 20 Hottest CEOs, and has appeared in campaigns with Nike, Fossil, amongst others. Additionally, she has been featured in Vogue, the Drew Barrymore Show, Forbes, CNN, WWD, Arch Digest, and more. She splits her time between Manhattan & Miami with her husband and their kids Hendrix and Stevie.

To connect with Cyndi, click HERE

To check out Chillhouse, click HERE

To connect with Kenny, click HERE

To Watch the Show on YouTube, click HERE