Chantal “CJ” Otto shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.
Chantal “CJ” , we’re thrilled to have you with us today. Before we jump into your intro and the heart of the interview, let’s start with a bit of an ice breaker: What is a normal day like for you right now?
It varies—occasionally there are days where I will forget to eat until 8p, but most of my work days are a highly structured routine.
Something like this:
Wake-Up Routine: Breath work outside, followed by lots of water and a homemade whole milk cappuccino. Then it’s time to walk my French Bulldog.
Daytime Routine: I have to assign myself office days where I will catch up on emails, admin things, or do client check-ins…other days I’m all over the place with meetings, work travel, etc I’m trying to do a better job of advocating tasks to my team, which allows me to stay in the big picture mindset and oversee things. With that being said, I still like to handle all of the new business and lead the client kickoffs because I love to be the hype girl.
Break: I don’t really have any official breaks during the day but I do allow myself to weave in restorative things like red light therapy, lymphatic drainage appts, pilates or mat workouts at home, long walks, garden upkeep, etc.
Evening Routine: This also varies—sometimes I will work until late, but I also really appreciate a soft evening filled with food, wine, self-care, or a good show. Something that doesn’t vary for me is I will ALWAYS make sure I’m getting good rest…I love sleep.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My real name is Chantal but most people call me CJ. I’m the owner of The CJO Agency, which specializes in luxury real estate and multifamily marketing. My background is in marketing/advertising—as well as PR—so we are able to provide services in the social media, marketing, and PR realms to a niche category of clients.
Things that make us unique:
-We only work with real estate-based clients, whether they are multifamily, residential, hospitality, mixed-use or commercial—which allows us to stay hyper focused. Our clients range from well-known ownership groups, to developers, to property management companies. If you need an example, think of luxury properties that work with star-chictects or famous interior designers, boast record-breaking rents, have unofficial titles like “where all the influencers live”, and have amenities like private sommeliers and the highest rooftop pool in SoCal.
-We do things differently. I’ve yet to find a true competitor, as the services we provide are on a higher level of quality and attention to detail. We are not for everyone and I’ve accepted that…but if you’re looking to stand out and make a statement, then we’re ready for you.
Thanks for sharing that. Would love to go back in time and hear about how your past might have impacted who you are today. What relationship most shaped how you see yourself?
Without question, it’s my relationship with myself. I have the most incredible group of people who support me and have my back, but it’s my internal trials and triumphs that have built my foundation.
If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
Learn to listen without absorbing.
Alright, so if you are open to it, let’s explore some philosophical questions that touch on your values and worldview. Is the public version of you the real you?
Yes and no. I keep a pretty private personal life and that’s by design….what you see in public (whether it’s in-person or social media) is the real me, but work makes me way more extroverted than I really am.
Okay, we’ve made it essentially to the end. One last question before you go. Have you ever gotten what you wanted, and found it did not satisfy you?
Yes, but the key is to not take it personal. If you’re constantly satisfied and comfy, then you’re probably not experiencing growth.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.thecjoagency.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecjoagency
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chantalotto/
