Today we’d like to introduce you to Shay Richardson
Hi Shay, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
My wellness journey began in my early thirties, though in many ways, it was long overdue. For years, I carried the unresolved trauma of my father’s incarceration when I was just 10—burying it out of emotional survival and because, frankly, therapy wasn’t an option I could afford. Then, life threw me another devastating challenge: I found myself divorced with two young children, facing the painful reality of a broken family I had worked so hard to build.
Over the years, my passion for healing and wellness grew, but it wasn’t until I underwent two neck surgeries within six months that I truly understood the importance of recovery and self-care. Desperate to heal, I took a trip to Miraval in Austin, Texas—a transformative experience that gave me absolute clarity: I was meant to create a wellness space that prioritizes both Rest (Recovery) and Fuel (Energy).
I envisioned a place where people could access powerful, time-efficient therapies designed to reset the nervous system, reduce stress and anxiety, and lower inflammation—all in one convenient location. For years, I had dreamed of stepping away from corporate life, but as a single mom, financial stability came first. Now, at 48, with my daughters away in school, I knew it was now or never—the perfect time to take the leap and pursue my true purpose.
I left Miraval with a mission—to bring modern, results-driven wellness solutions to those who, like me, believe that feeling your best isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity.
And now, every time a client tells me they simply feel better, I know I am exactly where I’m meant to be—helping others reclaim their health, energy, and well-being through the power of intentional self-care.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
This journey has been nothing short of exhilarating. I’ve pushed myself in ways I never imagined—engaging parts of my brain that had been dormant for years, constantly learning, and refining how to best serve our customers.
But like any entrepreneurial path, it hasn’t been without its challenges. The biggest struggle? Being David in a world of Goliaths. As a self-funded, female-owned small business, I’ve had to fight my way through an industry dominated by well-funded competitors. Despite all the talk about funding and opportunities for women entrepreneurs, I quickly realized that access to real support wasn’t as readily available as I had hoped.
Still, every obstacle has fueled my determination to build something meaningful, impactful, and truly transformative proving that passion, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to wellness can overcome even the toughest challenges.
As you know, we’re big fans of RestFuel. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
RestFuel is Atlanta’s premier wellness boutique, designed to offer next-level recovery, relaxation, and healing treatments that go beyond the typical spa experience. I founded RestFuel with a clear mission—to create a space where people can truly reset their nervous systems, reduce stress, and optimize their well-being through innovative, results-driven therapies.
What makes RestFuel different? We are the only wellness boutique in Atlanta offering Halotherapy (Dry Salt Therapy) alongside a curated selection of cutting-edge treatments. Our approach is built around efficiency and effectiveness—we offer Wellness Circuits, which allow clients to experience back-to-back treatments in one seamless session, making self-care more accessible for busy lifestyles. Why visit multiple locations for treatments when you can experience them in one place?
But what I’m most proud of is our concierge-level care. We don’t just offer services; we create a personalized, transformative experience tailored to each client’s needs. Whether someone is looking to recover from stress, enhance athletic performance, or simply feel their best, we provide powerful, time-efficient solutions that fit into modern life. A lot of clients refer to me as their personal wellness concierge.
At the end of the day, wellness isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity. And every time a client tells me they feel better, more energized, or more at peace, I know we’re making a real impact. That’s what fuels me and why I’m so passionate about bringing this next level of wellness to Atlanta.
Can you share something surprising about yourself?
Many people who know me or my work might be surprised to learn that, despite appearing outgoing, I naturally lean more toward introversion. Growing up, I learned to be extroverted as a survival mechanism—using it to navigate social anxiety and fit in. Over time, I’ve gained a deeper understanding of myself (thankfully) and realized that while I do enjoy social events, I need solitude afterward to recharge. Interestingly, I’m still often caught off guard when people remember me—I’ve spent much of my life feeling somewhat invisible.
Pricing:
- New Client $49 for 3 RestFuel Sessions (3 Sessions for the Price of 1!)
- New Client 50% Off Ballancer®Pro Lymphatic Massage (Code BPNEW)
Contact Info:
- Website: https://restfuelwellness.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/restfuel/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RestFuelWellness
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@restfuel?lang=en
