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