Christopher J. Birchby

Chris Birchby is the founder of COOLA and the Bare Republic. His journey to entrepreneurship began after both of his parents’ fortunate recoveries from melanoma, which inspired him to help prevent skin cancer and dive deeply into the world of organic skincare and sunscreen formulation. Over 15 years later, Chris is recognized as a leading eco-entrepreneur and expert in the field of sun protection and sustainable business practices.

Chris received a BA in English and Art from Lafayette College and an MFA from ArtCenter. He’s a passionate art collector, enjoys helping other start-ups, is on the board of trustees at both ArtCenter College of Design and the Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego (MCASD) and is an executive board member at IBA (the Independent Beauty Association).

Chris, his wife AJ, daughter Bellemy, son Wilder, and three rambunctious dogs split time between Austin, TX, and Solana Beach, CA.