Life and Work with Rachael Vigil-Smolinski

Rachael, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
Urban Squeeze has always been a dream of mine. Little did I know, that if you work hard and (mostly) let the path lay itself out along the way, dreams really do come true! For as long as I could remember, I have always been involved in the health and beauty industry. What else could I do but continue to help people through my passions, as well as through the power of healing touch, in which, almost everyone craves! Therefore, my start began as a single massage and esthetic practitioner, I like to say my two bare hands (literally) built Urban Squeeze to where it is today, now employing 10+ individuals that all have the similar passions in which I began with.

Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Is running a business ever really smooth? My path has taken many detours, I have this big idea file that never really ended. Thank goodness, with some help of a business coach, I now, constantly tune my thought process on the end goals. I am always learning along the way, and I have a goal to be working towards. When my big idea file was always open, there were times when I would ask myself what I was doing and why was I here, and others when I had nothing but speed bumps and stalls. Yet, with time and direction, I am now able to enjoy the moments when I can sit back and look around at the beautiful space that has been created from my vision. I am truly humbled to be achieving the goals I have long hoped for and I am thankful every day for the path that is becoming my legacy. My words of wisdom: Stay Humble and Be Mindful.

Please tell us about Urban Squeeze.
Urban Squeeze is the home of Colorado’s Top Leading Experts in Massage Therapy, Esthetics, and CryoTherapy Beauty Treatments. I like to think we are known for our Top-Notch Customer Service and Atmosphere. However, individuals come to US for Chemical Peeling, Teenage Acne, and Lymphatic drainage, plus TMJ Disorder, Neuromuscular, and Sports Massage. Even more recently, we have become experts in Cryoskin, which uses cooling technology to aid in targeting stubborn fat cells and works to tone skin.  Yet, first and foremost, I am proud of the Urban Squeeze team, because they pride themselves in not only providing the finest spa experience but they also employ modern techniques that are proven to make our clients look and feel their best.

Do you think there are structural or other barriers impeding the emergence of more female leaders?
I believe that there is an influx of female leaders, because we have found  ways to band together and ensure that our small locally owned businesses have the opportunity to thrive. This comes when we provide services/products responsibility, with thorough education, and by following regulations, but mostly by inspiring the community. The connections that are being create behind the scenes are a huge opportunity for female leaders to collaborate and thrive together.