We recently had the chance to connect with ANNETTE LA FONTAINE and have shared our conversation below.
Good morning ANNETTE, it’s such a great way to kick off the day – I think our readers will love hearing your stories, experiences and about how you think about life and work. Let’s jump right in? What are you being called to do now, that you may have been afraid of before?
For years, I knew that to truly grow my business, I needed to shift my focus from hands-on practice to the business side. However, I hesitated until early this year, when a medical issue forced me to step back from hands-on work.
Though it was a deeply emotional and challenging transition, it also opened the door to new possibilities. After 13 years as a massage therapist, with a decade of independent practice, I found that this setback was, in fact, an opportunity to fully dedicate myself to business growth.
While I do miss my hands-on practice, I’m embracing this new chapter with excitement.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I am Annette La Fontaine, the founder of Mauka Makai Mobile Massage, a mobile massage business rooted in the spirit of Aloha and dedicated to therapeutic wellness, restorative healing, and relaxation. Our brand is all about providing personalized, high-quality mobile massage experiences that emphasize healing and deep relaxation.
We’re excited to share that we’ve recently expanded to Las Vegas, affectionately known as the “Ninth Island,” where we are thrilled to connect with our Ohana and bring our therapeutic mobile massage services to the community.
Great, so let’s dive into your journey a bit more. What did you believe about yourself as a child that you no longer believe?
I have often joked that I was raised by wolves. As a child, I believed I had to be hyper-independent, and I grew up with a mindset that the world wasn’t always safe. This led me to rely solely on myself and rarely ask for help.
However, I’ve since learned to value collaboration, to trust in the expertise of others, and to build a. supportive team. This shift has been essential in growing both personally and professionally.
Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
Absolutely, and often! I’ve faced moments where I considered giving up. These moments of doubt spanned multiple life-changing issues over many years. Yet, I’ve come to understand that these feelings are temporary. At the core of my being is resilience. I’ve learned to endure suffering, knowing that on the other side I will be stronger and wiser.,
In the face of new challenges, whether it’s building a business or starting a fresh career, I lean on that same resilience.
Iron is forged in fire.
Alright, so if you are open to it, let’s explore some philosophical questions that touch on your values and worldview. What would your closest friends say really matters to you?
Ohana. My people.
Family comes before everything else. Everything else is done for the sake of the family.
Okay, we’ve made it essentially to the end. One last question before you go. When have you had to bet the company?
Now. Definitely now.
In this journey of growing my business, I’m taking risks by investing in new technologies and systems, new marketing strategies, developing a new website, opening new territories, purchasing a new van, hiring new therapists, and more.
Many of the business changes we are making are a big leap, but ultimately are helping us grow and establish a stronger presence.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.maukamakaimassage.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/
- Yelp: Mauka Makai Mobile Massage
