Today we’d like to introduce you to Danielle Hertaus
Hi Danielle, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
I started my career in massage therapy after graduating from the Minnesota School of Business in Richfield, MN, in December 2001. During my internship, I was fortunate enough to land a full-time job with a chiropractor in Burnsville, where I worked for five years. After that, I gained more experience working with other chiropractors and at Massage Envy locations, but it wasn’t until I met Marybeth in 2009 that my career truly took a turn.
Marybeth saw potential in me, recognizing my talent and the fact that I was already booked out so far at Massage Envy. She took me under her wing, teaching me the ins and outs of entrepreneurship, and that’s when I made the bold decision to start my own business, Shenti Massage .
As the years went by, I worked on refining my brand and, with the help of a company that assisted in rebranding and a mentor/friend named Jimmy Bluff, To shenti massage evolved into what is now Advanced Performance Therapy. With Jimmy’s business insights and bodywork expertise, I learned how to grow and sustain my practice.
What began as a small operation with just five clients working out of my home has blossomed into a thriving practice. Today, I work out of a private suite at Bloom Beauty Suites, with my schedule often booked a month in advance. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of working with numerous professional athletes from various sports, including CrossFit, strongman, bodybuilding, and powerlifting.
This journey has been an incredible ride, and I’m grateful for every step, every mentor, and every client along the way.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Owning a massage business while being a wife , mom and a strongman competitor comes with its unique set of challenges. Beyond the physical demands of both the work and training, balancing client care with business management can often feel overwhelming. Finding time for family, competitions, and maintaining a successful business requires constant juggling. Marketing, managing finances, and keeping a steady flow of clients demand attention, while staying on top of personal growth in both the massage field and as an athlete adds another layer of complexity. Yet, the rewards—helping clients thrive, achieving personal milestones, and being able to provide for my family—make it all worth it.
As you know, we’re big fans of Advanced Performance therapy . For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
What I’m most proud of is the trust I’ve built with my clients over the years. They come to me for more than just a massage—they come for bodywork that addresses their specific needs, whether it’s relaxation, deep tissue, sports rehab, or recovery from surgery. My practice is rooted in over 24 years of knowledge and continuing education, allowing me to offer personalized care that focuses on the root causes of pain or discomfort. What sets me apart is my ability to truly listen to my clients and focus on the areas that matter most to them. Many of my clients struggle to define my sessions because it’s a unique blend of techniques designed to meet their individual goals—whether that’s relieving a headache or preparing for a competition.
Advanced Performance Therapy is more than just a name to me; it represents a commitment to helping people in a holistic, personalized way. I’m proud that my business has grown solely through word-of-mouth referrals—no website, just a reputation built on results. The fact that so many people trust me with their bodywork needs is something I hold close, and I strive every day to continue earning that trust.
Have you learned any interesting or important lessons due to the Covid-19 Crisis?
The COVID-19 pandemic taught me several important lessons about the massage industry and my business. First and foremost, it highlighted the significance of health and safety, not just for my clients but for myself as well. It pushed me to invest in the best sanitation practices, adapt to new protocols, and maintain a safe environment, which ultimately deepened my understanding of the importance of trust in the therapist-client relationship.
Another key lesson was the value of flexibility and resilience. The pandemic forced me to pivot quickly—whether that meant adjusting scheduling, offering virtual consultations, or simply being more communicative with clients about changes in the business. I also learned how essential it is to maintain a strong, personal connection with clients, as many continued to reach out despite the uncertainty, demonstrating how important my work was to their well-being.
Lastly, COVID reaffirmed the necessity of continually evolving in both my personal practice and as a business owner. The lockdowns and disruptions made me more appreciative of the work I do and reinforced that flexibility, innovation, and a focus on holistic care are essential to thriving in any situation. It was a time that challenged me, but ultimately made me a stronger therapist and business owner.
Pricing:
- 30 min $70
- 60min $120
- 90 min $170
- 120 $220
- 12 package 1,100
Contact Info:
- Instagram: Advanced_mn
