Welcome to another installment of the new feature here at NCW Veterans Info: Veterans In Business. It’s my honor to introduce you to local veterans who are starting or running businesses here in North Central Washington.
In this edition, meet Chantz Webb, owner and operator of Webb’s Therapeutic Massage. While I still don’t think we’ve actually met in person, I’ve known of Chantz for a few years thanks to our mutual networks and Facebook. Let’s learn more about him and what he does.
Please tell us a little about yourself and your military service:
My name is Chantz Webb. I served in the army from 2005-2008 at Ft. Hood Texas as an (63B) all wheel vehicle mechanic. I am the owner of Webb’s Therapeutic Massage, within the Screaming Octopus clinic. I’m a Founding member of the nonprofit Tour Of Duty, which was created to help unaccompanied veterans along with assistance and recreation for all veterans and active duty. I am also the head wrestling coach for Eastmont Junior High School.
Why did you decide to go into business for yourself? And how did you decide what that business would be?
I decided to go into business for myself shortly after kick starting my massage career due to the demands of the industry, the ability to do more with my family and pursue other interest at the same time. I decided on massage therapy as a career after finding out how much it can help people (along with myself) live a better life, including getting over and/or managing injuries/pain.
How do you feel your military service helped you become a successful entrepreneur?
I believe the military instilled confidence, self-discipline and perseverance in me, all of which a business owner needs, not only to survive the ups and downs of a small business but to succeed and thrive as one.
Who or What other resources helped you along the way?
Like many people that start out on this adventure I’ve had many people help me, guide me and push me to get to where I am now. Even though I could probably write a book on this alone, I would like to take this opportunity to thank some of them. First off my wonderful wife, she was extremely supportive not only through schooling but everything along the way, she helped me keep my “chin up” when things weren’t going as planned and has continually pushed me to be better in all aspects. Next I would like to thank my grandfather, without him I wouldn’t have had the opportunity to start schooling. He has also helped guide me in so many ways, not just in business but life in general. I would also like to thank the director/owner of Columbia River Institute of Massage Therapy, Annie – this amazing lady taught me how to adapt to the industry and work demands with my disabilities from my time in service, she had many suggestions for equipment and other things to ease adaptation. Along with that she has granted me the privilege to grow within the industry by teaching at her school, including countless discussions and guidance sessions for business and massage. Finally I want to thank my children for putting up with me, allowing me to practice and seemingly enjoying the adventure with me.
What does the future look like for you and the work you’re doing?
In the future I plan on owning my own school of massage to help create other great therapists and give back at least some of the support I’ve received of the years. I will also continuously grow my knowledge base, always striving to be better than the day before. I plan to offer more continuing education classes to my fellow massage therapists to spread some knowledge that I’ve gained along the way. I truly enjoy being a massage therapist and helping people feel better. Tour Of Duty is still a young nonprofit and I hope to help take this great organization nation-wide – that will require more fundraisers, more assistance to vets and active duty, and of course more opportunities for the military community to get together, whether that’s a hunting/fishing trip, a good old fashion BBQ, or a more intimate trip just with their spouse.
