We had the good fortune of connecting with Max Lapekas and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Max, what is the most important factor behind your success?

Customer service and experience. Almost all our customers are on vacation and have been planning these experiences for sometimes years. That is why we focus on customer service and the experience customers have from the time they book to the time they get back in their cars to leave.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
We are a kayak and paddleboard outfitter in Page, Arizona. We get people out on Lake Powell and offer paddle trips into Antelope Canyon. Our business celebrated its 10 year anniversary this year and each year there has been a new set of challenges/obstacles. We have learned to adapt and that it is so important to stay determined, motivated and optimistic. Our job is physically demanding so that has its own set of challenges. Our town does as well. It is hard to get motivated employees to come to our corner of the country and be willing to work as hard as we do. The past few years we have had to deal with the low water levels in Lake Powell but we have not let that stop us. We have had to change our business model quite a few times over the last two years and as the water starts to rise this summer, we might have to change it again. We don’t let the challenges get in our way, showing up is the most important in figuring out solutions.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?

Our Kayak trip into Antelope Canyon is absolutely #1. There are so many hikes in our area. The desert landscape is so unique and beautiful. Renting a boat to go up lake to visit the lesser-known spots on Lake Powell is must do. We would take them for lunch to The Birdhouse, dinner at Sunset 89 or Blue Buddha.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?

We would like to give a huge shoutout to Joe and Jordan (Max’s dad and his wife) for giving us to the opportunity to come to Page and learn the ins and outs of Lake Powell Paddleboards and then a few years later to be able to purchase the business from them. They continue to give us support and advice on owning a business. We also owe credit to my mom Ellen for always being there for us and helping along the way in any way she can. We got her to come from Michigan to answer the phone while we got to go on the Grand Canyon this year!

Website: www.lakepowellpaddleboards.com

Instagram: lakepowellpaddleboards

Facebook: Lake Powell Paddleboards and Kayaks

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