Elizabeth Cutler

Cutler obtained her undergraduate degree in Art History and Religious Studies from the University of Colorado. She went to India, where she lived in a monastery as part of her studies, and she also traveled throughout Southeast Asia.^[1]

Cutler's early career after graduation included work in Telluride, Colorado, where she worked as a real estate agent like her mother. She then moved to New York City, where she resides with her husband, Allen, and their two daughters.^[2]

In 2006, Cutler co-founded SoulCycle with Julie Rice and Ruth Zukerman.^[3] The concept was an indoor cycling gym, and she became its co-CEO until 2015. From one studio, the business quickly expanded, and by 2015, it had 46 locations and employed 1,500 people.^[2] Its popularity was attributed to the 45-minute classes, which combined fitness and fun. Its clients included prominent personalities such as Michelle Obama, Chelsea Clinton, Harry Styles, and David Beckham, among others.^[4][5][6] The startup was acquired in stages by Equinox Fitness: first, a majority stake in 2011; and, full ownership in 2016.^[7] She reportedly earned $90 million from the sale.^[8]

A year later, Cutler launched Dopamine Ventures, which aimed to advise and finance startups. The company had funded the co-working space the Wing, Iconiq, and Cava, a Middle Eastern fast-casual restaurant chain.^[9] Her new ventures also included Peoplehood, which she co-founded with Rice. The business involved a 60-minute “conversation Circle”, where participants develop skills required for connection.^[10] The concept, which was dubbed as SoulCycle without the bicycle, was introduced post-pandemic and anticipated the so-called “global loneliness crisis”.^[11]

In 2013 and 2014, Cutler was listed as one of Goldman Sachs’ 100 Builders + Innovators. She was also recognized a year later as one of Fast Company’s Most Creative People in Business.^[12]