Hello
My name is Alejandro Avendaño, but most people know me as The Million Friends Guy.
​
For years I worked a traditional corporate job, checking the boxes of “success” but feeling like something was missing. What truly changed my life wasn’t a new title or paycheck — it was discovering the power of contrast therapy. Cold plunges and sauna became more than just a recovery tool; they became a way for me to recharge, grow stronger, and connect with others who wanted more out of life too.
​
That’s how The PlunCho Co was born. My vision is simple: to share the benefits of contrast therapy and create a community of like-minded people who want to feel better, live healthier, and push their limits together. My mission is to bring this experience to as many people as possible — whether in your backyard, at an event, or in a corporate space.
“With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.”
Matthew 19:26 (NIV)
My Story
I’m also a dad to two amazing kids and a husband blessed with a beautiful family. My life took an unexpected turn at 27 when I underwent open-heart surgery. Waking up in that hospital room, I realized life is fragile, but also a gift from God. That moment shifted my entire perspective — I knew I had to take care of this body, honor the second chance I’d been given, and use my story to inspire others.
​
Since then, I’ve run many races, even a 50K ultramarathon, built a daily practice of movement, sauna, and plunges, and most importantly, created a lifestyle that I can share with my children. I want them to grow up seeing their dad not only survive but thrive — physically, mentally, and spiritually.
​
For me, contrast therapy isn’t just about recovery. It’s about resilience. It’s about stepping into the cold, embracing discomfort, and realizing that on the other side of challenge is growth. It’s about sitting in the heat, breathing deeply, and remembering that calm is always available when you choose it.
​
If you’re an athlete, a parent, or just someone who wants to feel more alive — I get it. I’ve been there. And I’d love to welcome you into The PlunCho Co community, where we grow stronger together, one plunge and one sauna session at a time.
Let's Connect!
Want to connect beyond the plunge? Join me on Instagram at @TheMillionFriendsGuy where I share more about my journey in fitness, fatherhood, and building a community of a million friends.
407-928-7564