We were lucky to catch up with Che Chinn recently and have shared our conversation below.
Che, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. It’s always helpful to hear about times when someone’s had to take a risk – how did they think through the decision, why did they take the risk, and what ended up happening. We’d love to hear about a risk you’ve taken.
Embarking on the journey of establishing Wellness Abound was a significant and transformative risk in my professional life. Prior to this endeavor, I had established myself in the world of luxury spas, having dedicated substantial time and effort to cultivating a promising career. Simultaneously, I played a pivotal role as a program director for a Massage program I had initiated, further solidifying my presence in the industry.
The decision to resign from two esteemed luxury spas in Atlanta and relinquish the security of a flourishing career was not one made lightly. It was a daring leap into the unknown, a conscious departure from the comfort of the familiar to pursue my vision of a mobile massage business. The motivation behind Wellness Abound was rooted in a profound belief in the transformative power of holistic well-being and the desire to deliver personalized, high-quality services directly to clients.
The backstory involves a deep introspection into my passion for holistic wellness and a yearning for a more personalized connection with clients. The vision was to break free from the confines of traditional spa settings, allowing me to tailor experiences that truly met the unique needs of individuals in the comfort of their own spaces.
The journey was marked by a mix of fear and excitement. The initial stages involved meticulous planning, from creating a business model to developing a marketing strategy. There were moments of doubt and anxiety, but the prospect of creating something authentic and impactful fueled my determination.
As Wellness Abound took its first steps, the rewards began to unfold. The business not only thrived but also provided an unparalleled sense of fulfillment. The personal connection with clients deepened, and the flexibility of a mobile setup allowed for a more intimate and customized approach. The venture not only sustained itself but exceeded expectations, affirming the value of taking calculated risks and following one’s passion.
In essence, the decision to leave behind the security of established luxury spas and a promising career as a program director was a pivotal moment that defined my professional trajectory. The risk, though laden with uncertainty, proved to be the catalyst for a rewarding and fulfilling journey with Wellness Abound.
Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.
My name is Che, and I’m a Massage Therapy Educator and Program Creator based in Atlanta, GA. Originally from Long Island, New York, I made the move to Atlanta in 1996. My professional journey took a fascinating turn in 2005 when I shifted my focus from Pre-Med to massage therapy, driven by a passion for exploring natural ways to promote overall well-being — addressing the body, mind, and spirit.
My educational foundation includes graduating with high honors as the Valedictorian from the Southeastern School of Neuromuscular and Massage Therapy in Columbia, South Carolina. Simultaneously, I completed my undergraduate studies in Biology at Midlands Technical College. Following this, I delved into the world of instruction, becoming a trailblazer in teaching the art of Massage Therapy. Over the years, I’ve not only embraced traditional massage techniques but also ventured into alternative methods such as Reiki, Reflexology, manual lymphatic drainage massage, prenatal massage, Thai massage, and structural integration techniques.
My passion for holistic health, integrative nutrition, and alternative eating is complemented by my experience in preparing organic raw foods for influential health figures. This diverse background has laid the foundation for my brand, Wellness Abound, which extends its reach by collaborating with some of the top names in holistic healthcare in the Metro Atlanta area.
What sets Wellness Abound apart is not only the breadth of services we offer, including deep tissue massage and sports massage, but also our commitment to paying it forward. I believe in supporting other massage therapists in reaching their full potential through quality Continuing Education Units (CEU) classes, fostering self-development, and actively engaging in philanthropy.
One aspect I’m particularly proud of is my involvement in supporting students. I’ve volunteered and supported organizations such as the Federation of State Massage Therapy Boards, serving as a test item writer. Currently, I chair various advisory boards for the massage profession.
In addition to my professional pursuits, I’m a proud Atlanta resident, sharing my time with my son and 2 beautiful nieces. Outside of work, I find joy in summer festivals, travel, and the creation of delicious vegan meals. I look forward to continuing my journey in the massage therapy realm, positively impacting lives, and contributing to the growth and well-being of individuals within the community.
What’s been the most effective strategy for growing your clientele?
Building my clientele has been a journey grounded in principles of excellence, integrity, and a genuine commitment to my clients’ well-being. The most effective strategy for growing my clientele has been rooted in providing superior service and fostering strong word-of-mouth recommendations.
Consistency has been a cornerstone of my approach. Each session is not just a service but a dedicated investment in my clients’ wellness journey. I believe in the power of building authentic connections and being an integral part of their path to well-being.
My commitment to delivering high-quality service has resonated with clients, creating a positive feedback loop where satisfied clients become advocates. The trust I’ve built through consistently exceeding expectations has led to organic referrals and an expanding client base.
In addition to the hands-on aspect of my work, I prioritize maintaining open communication with clients, ensuring their needs are not only met but exceeded. This personalized and attentive approach has not only contributed to client satisfaction but has also played a pivotal role in the growth of my clientele.
Ultimately, the combination of superior service, unwavering integrity, and a genuine investment in my clients’ well-being has been the driving force behind the success of my business, fostering a strong and loyal clientele base.
Are there any books, videos, essays or other resources that have significantly impacted your management and entrepreneurial thinking and philosophy?
Certainly, let’s reframe the response in the first person:
—
“The Untethered Soul” by Michael A. Singer has been a transformative read for me. It delves deep into the exploration of consciousness and the journey toward spiritual awakening. This book has encouraged me to question the nature of my thoughts and emotions, urging a profound understanding of my inner world. The central idea—that true freedom comes from detaching oneself from habitual thoughts and emotions—has had a significant impact on my perspective. Singer’s guidance on breaking free from limiting patterns aligns with my belief in embracing a more liberated and authentic existence.
Memoirs hold a special place in my heart, and both Michelle Obama’s “Becoming” and Viola Davis’s memoir have spoken to me on a personal level. These powerful narratives not only provide insights into the lives of remarkable women but also emphasize the importance of authenticity, resilience, and staying true to oneself. They serve as constant reminders that preserving my authentic self is paramount in both my personal and professional journey.
In the entrepreneurial realm, “The E Myth” by Michael E. Gerber has been instrumental in shaping my business mindset. The book’s emphasis on systematizing and scaling a business has helped me navigate challenges and grow my ventures with a strategic mindset, avoiding common pitfalls along the way.
Music, especially AfroBeats and Reggae, holds a special place in my routine. The creative rhythms and messages in these genres inspire and energize me, providing a unique form of motivation.
Comedy videos are my go-to for maintaining a light-hearted perspective. They remind me not to take life too seriously and contribute to a positive mindset and resilience in the face of challenges.
Dr. Eric Zielinski, my mentor, brings a unique blend of qualities to my life. As a published author, man of faith, and devoted father, his inspirational words serve as a steady source of motivation, fueling my passion for what I do.
In essence, this eclectic mix of influences, from spiritual exploration to personal narratives, business insights, and the creative arts, shapes my multifaceted and holistic approach to both management and entrepreneurship.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.wellness-abound.om
- Instagram: @wellnessabound
- Facebook: @wellnessabound