Meet Trailblazer Jeanette Steiner

Today we’d like to introduce you to Jeanette Steiner.

So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
I am a small town girl, a hippie-gypsy, soul-sister spirit from Orange, Texas. Over the last ten years, I have lived in Italy, moved to Los Angeles with an acting dream, taught English in Thailand, backpacked SE Asia and Australia, starred in multiple Hollywood feature films, built a massage therapy business, started songwriting, won a Grammy writing for Ziggy Marley and released a solo record called, With Love.

My brand, ARISARA, pronounced /ah-ree sah-rah/ is a name of Thai origin and describes one that is tenacious and triumphant. This is the undercurrent of Arisara Music & Arisara Massage.

As ARISARA, the artist/songwriter, I have celebrated placements like Greyhounds (De La Soul), Better Together (Ziggy Marley) and Something Beautiful (Tori Kelly). My unorthodox life and extensive, immersive time traveling abroad have only elevated my ability to understand and relate to all kinds of people. My writing elicits a graceful perspective and inspires compassion for the human experience. My lyrics express a variety of contemplations on the ever-marvelous concept of love, a portion of which I share in my latest album, With Love, released with a new indie label, Flagships Artists.

As ARISARA, the massage therapist, I have built an impressive private practice where I am committed to providing ‘the massage you’ve always wanted.’ I was introduced to massage therapy in Thailand, where it became my weekly ritual. Following my teaching term, I earned my certification in Advanced Thai Massage and continued my studies at The Southern California Health Institute. I aim to continue raising the bar and advocating for Massage Therapy as a complementary medicine. It is my continued honor and privilege to serve my community in this way. The healing power of massage is indisputable; you only need to find the right therapist.

Has it been a smooth road?
The road has been continuously challenging because it has presented many opportunities for which I was a ‘first-timer’ and continues to do so. No writing session is the same; no song is the same; no artist is the same; no day is the same. There’s a plethora of factors beyond my control in the music industry, but that doesn’t excuse me from going after big goals within it.

I’ve never had my own business before; I have a great product, though. I am an excellent massage therapist. I’m not an accountant nor am I particularly good with business analytics and strategizing, but I offer an exceptional service that brings great value to people.

I have confidence in my abilities to learn, do the work necessary to be prepared, and then step up, courageously and with vulnerability, which, I’ve learned, is probably the most valuable. It’s important to expose your truth, without judgment or criticism. People are incredibly supportive when your intentions are pure, your product is valuable, and you’re new to the entrepreneurial game and approaching obstacles/opportunities like a student.
The biggest struggle for me has always been maintaining patience with the process. I have unrealistic expectations for my own growth and the growth of my business. Sometimes, I think that’s a gift because it keeps me ambitious, but other times, it can be destructive because I’ll become self-defeating and forget all the blessings I’m able to enjoy by being self-employed.

Make peace with the process. If you want it, it’s worth it.

We’d love to hear more about ARISARA Massage/Music.
I specialize in customizing massage treatments that combine the best of Eastern and Western approaches. In short, Eastern modalities treat the bodies energetic pathways, uncovering blockages and opening them up via unobstructed circulation. Western modalities are more clinical and medically informed, sensitive to movement impairment or physical injury. I create treatments on the spot based on the verbal intake with each client. I’m really proud of my reviews on Yelp, my consistent reputation, and my supportive referral network. I’m deeply invested in the health and well-being of my clients and I think that’s what sets me apart. I’m committed to their massage treatment being a game changer in their lives.

As a songwriter, I feel that my poetic rawness sets me apart. I’m very vulnerable and empathetic. It’s important to me to find the truth and share that so listeners feel known or understood. I’m no vocal legend, but there’s a genuine quality to my voice. I always sow a thread of triumph through each song.
ARISARA: it’s my purpose.

Finding a mentor and building a network are often cited in studies as a major factor impacting one’s success. Do you have any advice or lessons to share regarding finding a mentor or networking in general?
Celebrate the wins of the people in your community, join mailing lists, go to workshops, take classes, work on your work. Celebrate your wins. Be bold. Ask questions. Do things that scare you.

Pricing:

• 60/90 minute in-studio massage is $100/$140
• Package of 6/60min in-studio massages is $500
• Package of 8/90min in-studio massages is $1100
• Out-call massages are an additional $50 + roundtrip transportation cost of Uber/Lyft
• Writing/Vocal Recording Fees depend upon project goals + budget

Contact Info:

• Address: ARISARA Massage is located inside Bodies in Balance
  11413 Moorpark St
  North Hollywood, CA 91602
• Website: www.arisaramassage.com
• Phone: 570-815-5208
• Email: arisaramassage@gmail.com
• Instagram: @arisaramassage
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/massagebyarisara/
• Other: www.arisaramusic.com

Image Credit:
Photos by Yazzi Williams & Marcel Dios, Logo by Anna Olinova

Getting in touch: VoyageLA is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.