Today we’d like to introduce you to Alexandra “Alex” Cotleur.
Hi Alexandra “Alex”, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
I’ve been an avid paddler in the area for over 15 years. I had a mobile kayak business in 2010, then worked for a local outfitter for ten years where I became involved in events that promoted paddling, giving back to the community as a Special Olympics Stand Up Paddling coach and protecting our environment through local advocacy of our paddle access areas and garbage clean ups. When I got involved with the Chasin a Dream Foundation three years ago, the benefit of people connecting to water really became evident. Families enjoy boat rides and paddle equipment to escape the nightmare of their disease compliments of Jupiter Pointe Marina, a staunch supporter of Chasin a Dream Foundation. That relationship was the catalyst for Paddle the Pointe. When we proposed a for profit business with a portion of the proceeds benefitting Chasin a Dream Foundation and Jupiter Pointe Marina accepted our offer, it was a dream come true! My business partner, Lori and I get to introduce people to paddling AND benefit local children battling life-threatening illness. Paddling and giving back are important to me and I am thankful to have the opportunity to do both through Paddle the Pointe at Jupiter Pointe Marina.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It has not always been a smooth road! When I first started the mobile kayak business with a different business partner back in 2009, gaining access to the water was a challenge. I was the first mobile outfitter that applied to Palm Beach County for the proper licensing and paperwork to do business at local parks. While others were conducting business under the radar, I worked with the County on an agreement for access to a couple of local parks, including one with a kayak outfitter on location. We had previously established a relationship with that outfitter and he was happy to have us on the river since they had no guides and we were small compared to their very large operation. The struggles along the way allowed me to expand my network in the community and I’m grateful for that too!
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I specialize in teaching people to connect with water through paddling. I moved to Florida from Flushing, NY, I was scared of nature having never spent much time in it. But we moved to one of the best places for paddling and today, I am proud to say that paddling/nature is my therapy. I enjoy watching others overcome their fear, gain confidence and beam with empowerment when they are done paddling. Bluemind is what we call that sense of well-being, the escape you get from being on, by, in or next to water. Check out the book Bluemind to learn why.
What were you like growing up?
Growing up, I was very shy and insecure. I was a people pleaser to my own detriment. I grew up in a strict household where little girls were supposed to play inside with dolls. I watched way too much television, but did get to spend lots of time with my grandparents which was a plus! I can appreciate growth in others as a result of my own.
Pricing:
- Paddle Board Rentals – 1hr $25
- Single Kayak Rental – 1hr $30
- Double Kayak Rental – 1hr $45
- Hydrobike Rental – $30/hr
- Tours, lessons – $50-$75/person
Contact Info:
- Email: [email protected]
- Website: www.paddlethepointe.com
- Instagram: paddle_the_pointe_
- Facebook: paddle the pointe
Image Credits
Dock and manatee pic by Max Park (our tour guide)
Alexandra “Alex” Cotleur
