Digital Social Hour: Entrepreneurship, Ghosts, and Viral Success Stories | Queen of Melrose DSH #1356
Release Date: April 28, 2025
Introduction
In this compelling episode of Digital Social Hour, host Sean Kelly engages in an unfiltered and intimate conversation with Cosmo Ensenado, also known as the "Queen of Melrose." The discussion delves deep into Cosmo's tumultuous journey through addiction and sobriety, her entrepreneurial ventures, encounters with the supernatural, and her viral success stories that have reshaped her life and business.
1. Overcoming Addiction and Embracing Sobriety
Cosmo opens up about her long battle with addiction, sharing raw and honest insights into her struggles and the path to sobriety. She recounts her relapses and ultimate decision to get sober at the age of 50, emphasizing the role of her support system and the transformative power of community.
"I got sober at 50. You know, but I've been in AA for 20 years." (07:05)
Cosmo highlights the efficacy of peer support in recovery, stating:
"The only thing that really works is one addict talking to another addict." (07:30)
She discusses the stigma of sobriety, especially as an older individual, and how redefining her identity as "Queen and sober" has empowered her and inspired others.
"So we came up with a set of Clean and sober. Now it's Queen and sober." (07:25)
2. Entrepreneurial Endeavors and Store Success
Transitioning from her personal struggles, Cosmo shares her entrepreneurial journey of running multiple stores on Melrose Avenue. She details the challenges faced during the COVID-19 pandemic, the impact of local riots, and the innovative strategies she employed to keep her business afloat.
"I started off trying to sell a dress, and now I'm making music. It's crazy." (52:00)
Cosmo credits her friend Eugenia for pushing her to embrace her personality on camera, which led to a surge in her store's popularity and online presence.
"She said, 'You have to save your store.' And your personality will save." (11:00)
She also discusses her collaboration with LA's Area 15, where her designs for Burning Man were showcased, further elevating her brand's visibility.
"So they bought the whole entire line. Bonnie was no object. And so now they're selling my stuff in Area 15." (48:20)
3. Embracing the Supernatural: Ghost Stories and Beliefs
A significant portion of the conversation explores Cosmo's deep-seated belief in the supernatural. She shares chilling ghost stories from her childhood in Harlem and experiences that have cemented her faith in the existence of spirits and demons.
"I believe that shit's true. And you know what it's like when it deals with the unknown and the supernatural and demons." (24:31)
Cosmo recounts her terrifying experience with the movie The Exorcist and how it influenced her perception of good and evil.
"I saw the Exorcist, didn't sleep for a year." (23:00)
She also details a personal encounter where her sponsor performed an exorcism to help a friend overcome addiction, reinforcing her belief in divine intervention.
"She's literally praying over him. And then I see him sober, stone cold sober." (31:12)
4. Viral Success and Digital Influence
Cosmo discusses her unexpected rise to viral fame through her authentic and positive portrayal of sobriety. Her appearance on Soft White Underbelly, where she shared her transformative story, resonated with millions, leading to increased traffic to her stores and social media platforms.
"I went viral with that. Because I went on there with the solution." (08:00)
She highlights the importance of leveraging digital platforms to share personal narratives, inspiring others while simultaneously boosting her business.
"She said, 'You have to save your store.' And now I have podcasts, blogs, and music videos." (11:00)
5. Creative Ventures: Music and Fashion
Expanding her creative horizons, Cosmo has ventured into music, producing tracks that reflect her cultural heritage and personal experiences. She collaborates with notable producers and integrates her fashion designs into her artistic expressions.
"We just did Italian Men, which is... It's a bop." (52:51)
Cosmo also emphasizes the synergy between her fashion businesses and her music, creating a holistic brand that celebrates individuality and resilience.
"So next time you go to Area 15, pick up a garment, and it should say Cosmo." (49:30)
6. Reflections on Family and Upbringing
Cosmo provides a heartfelt account of her upbringing in a challenging environment, navigating the complexities of being a gay individual in a household dominated by mob influences and Jehovah's Witness beliefs. She reflects on the impact of her family's dynamics on her personal growth and choices.
"I became a hairdresser. I became very successful, him letting me do what I wanted to do." (16:53)
Her narrative underscores the resilience required to overcome familial and societal obstacles, shaping her into the empowered individual she is today.
Conclusion
This episode of Digital Social Hour offers a profound exploration of Cosmo Ensenado's multifaceted life. From battling addiction and achieving sobriety to building a thriving business empire and embracing her supernatural beliefs, Cosmo's story is one of perseverance, authenticity, and reinvention. Sean Kelly's ability to draw out these intimate details provides listeners with valuable insights into the complexities of personal transformation and the power of embracing one's true self.
Notable Quotes:
- "I got sober at 50." – Cosmo (07:05)
- "The only thing that really works is one addict talking to another addict." – Cosmo (07:30)
- "I believe that shit's true." – Cosmo (24:31)
- "She said, 'You have to save your store.' And your personality will save." – Cosmo (11:00)
- "We just did Italian Men, which is... It's a bop." – Cosmo (52:51)
Find Cosmo Ensenado:
- Stores: Melrose Avenue Boutiques – Cosmo's Glam Squad and Cosmo Ensenado Label
- Website: Queen of Melrose
- Music: Available on Spotify
- Social Media & Patreon: Links provided on Queen of Melrose
For more unfiltered and authentic conversations, subscribe to Digital Social Hour and stay tuned for upcoming episodes that challenge conventional thinking and inspire change.