Octavio Cifuentes of FTX Wellness

Sober Ventures | Addiction | Recovery | Entrepreneurship | Alcoholism | Sobriety | Business

Summary of Sober Ventures Podcast Episode with Octavio Cifuentes Quick Overview: This podcast episode features Octavio Cifuentes, founder of FTX Wellbeing and Performance in Boca Raton, who shares his journey from addiction to creating a wellness-focused business that specifically serves the recovery community. His story demonstrates how fitness and sobriety can work together to create lasting positive change. Key Points: - Octavio transformed from an addict to a successful gym owner and wellness entrepreneur - FTX Wellbeing combines fitness training with recovery support services - The business serves 10-15 rehab centers in South Florida - 40% of staff members are in recovery - The facility offers scholarships for certification programs to people in recovery Detailed Breakdown: Personal Journey: - Started recovery journey in Delray Beach after moving from Nicaragua - Began as a front desk employee at a gym - Transitioned to personal training through employer sponsorship - Eventually founded FTX Wellbeing, growing from mobile services to an 8,000 sq ft facility Business Model & Philosophy: - Integrates fitness, recovery, and community support - Offers comprehensive services including chiropractic care, physical therapy, and acupuncture - Maintains strict ethical standards in billing and client relationships - Creates a safe, judgment-free environment for all clients - Emphasizes gradual progress and sustainable fitness goals Community Impact: - Provides free classes for people in recovery - Offers certification scholarships to individuals with 1+ years of sobriety - Has helped over 50 people obtain professional certifications - Creates employment opportunities for people in recovery - Builds a supportive community beyond just fitness Important Details & Evidence: - Survived COVID-19 and competition from 9 new nearby gyms - Facility includes modern amenities like running tracks and cold plunges - Focuses on customized approaches for each client - Emphasizes both physical fitness and recovery principles - Maintains strong connections with local recovery centers Final Takeaways: 1. Recovery and fitness can create powerful positive transformation 2. Building a supportive community is essential for long-term success 3. Gradual, sustainable progress is more important than quick results 4. Giving back to the recovery community strengthens both individual and collective growth 5. Creating safe spaces for people in recovery helps facilitate healing and personal development The episode showcases how combining fitness with recovery principles can create meaningful change while building a successful business model that prioritizes community impact over pure profit.