We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Jess Salsman. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Jess below.
Jess, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. It’s always helpful to hear about times when someone’s had to take a risk – how did they think through the decision, why did they take the risk, and what ended up happening. We’d love to hear about a risk you’ve taken.
The biggest risk I’ve taken was recognizing that the path I’d been on my whole life wasn’t for me and choosing to walk away from it—without a plan, without resources, but knowing I wasn’t living in alignment.
This realization came during my time as Student Body Vice President in college. Since 5th grade, my life plan had been to become a lawyer. My parents saw potential in me, and I adopted their dream as my own. I attended a specialized law & leadership high school, where I was also Student Body President, and continued down this path in college. While I achieved accomplishments and titles to please others, I wasn’t passionate about them. The validation was intoxicating, but deep down, I felt disconnected.
I was living in two worlds—projecting destructive behaviors without understanding them, while also performing in public roles that felt foreign. I often thought, “I feel like an alien.” The guilt, shame, and loneliness were overwhelming feelings, and I couldn’t see a way out.
When I walked away from it all, things only seemed to get worse. I lost everything—friends, my sense of self, and a life I had built. I realized I didn’t even know who I was. For years, I had lived to please others, disconnected from my true purpose. I didn’t know how much work I needed to do to unlearn this conditioning and reconnect with myself.
The next few years were filled with trial and error. I was still in pain and struggling with self-destructive habits, but I pursued healing through different modalities, never giving up. I eventually sold everything I owned, moved to Thailand, then Mexico—with just three bags and leaving my partner behind (we’re now engaged!). I had to choose myself and step into the unknown to rediscover who I was.
Looking back, I didn’t realize how brave I was in that moment. It’s that bravery that has allowed me to continue taking risks and stepping into uncharted waters. Whenever I feel out of alignment, I listen to my body and trust the path ahead.
What my parents saw in me was an advocate, channeled into a law career. But I chose to become an advocate for vulnerability and healing—both my own and others’. Vulnerability is a superpower.
Over the last decade, I’ve discovered healing modalities that resonate with me: energy work, neuro-linguistic programming, sound healing, group healing, and community connection. I became certified in these practices to heal myself, my loved ones, and eventually my community. I began creating wellness workshops, retreats, and festivals, sharing healing in ways that reach people who might not otherwise explore holistic methods. Healing is my purpose, and there are countless ways to share it.
I’m forever grateful for taking that risk, as it led me to discover who I truly am.
As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?
My business started as a journey of self-healing, which led me to find my purpose in helping others on their own healing journeys. It’s about bringing consciousness and education to the process of healing.
In 2018, at one of my lowest points before moving to Thailand, I read The Energy Codes by Dr. Sue Morter. I knew nothing about energy work but was drawn to it. The book teaches how to direct energy to your chakras and incorporate practices that shift your inner state. I worked through the chapters slowly, feeling profound shifts within myself. I began to feel my energy, connect with my higher self, and experience a deep sense of unity with everything around me. This was life-changing, and though it wasn’t a quick fix, it was the start of my path as a healer.
From there, I explored various healing modalities by attending workshops, trying different sessions, and soaking in whatever resonated with me. Crystal sound bowls became a key practice for me, allowing me to feel energy through music in a way I hadn’t before. I also learned about neuro-linguistic programming and how we can rewire our brains, which was a game-changer in shifting my internal dialogue from negative to empowering.
Events were always a part of my life. I started as an event producer in student council, then worked in party environments, and eventually realized that bringing people together in healing spaces was a transformative experience. As a former event director at a festival and retreat venue, I helped facilitators and practitioners step into their own power, which inspired me to do the same.
In January 2024, I launched Jess Curated to offer one-on-one healing, group sessions, and wellness events in Reiki, Guided Sound Healing, and more. I help clients pause, connect with themselves and the world around them, and release blocks. My role is as a conduit, guiding clients back to their true selves. I always provide tools, resources, and knowledge so clients can continue their healing journey on their own. It’s one thing to receive energy subconsciously, but to consciously engage with your energy is a next-level experience.
I’m constantly attending events and trying different healing methods to deepen my understanding and share that with others. When I first started, I thought there was a “right” way to give energy. But as I practiced, I realized my style is unique—rooted in raw, authentic love. I create a cozy, comfortable space for others, incorporating all five senses because healing begins with presence and awareness.
What sets me apart is my deep curiosity in sparking consciousness and connection. I love to ask questions and truly get to know someone’s soul. When I say Jess Curated, I mean it’s curated specifically for YOU. Every session is unique, and I pour my soul into every experience. My events are designed to help attendees feel more connected to themselves.
I’m proud of the journey I’ve been on, and I’m grateful to be able to continue becoming a better version of myself through this work. Living authentically is a gift, and I want others to know they have the power to take risks, live authentically, and heal. Energy work isn’t something “out there” or mysterious—it’s a part of who we are. We all have the ability to guide our energy and heal ourselves, and I’m here to help show you the way. I’m just a regular girlie, but I’m also a healer—and I’m passionate about helping others do this work.
Training and knowledge matter of course, but beyond that what do you think matters most in terms of succeeding in your field?
Practice, practice, practice. I spent A LOT of time practicing on myself and loved ones by offering free Reiki sessions, hosting weekly sound baths for friends, and collaborating with other healers to learn from and grow my community. There’s no shame in being a new practitioner or starting a new business. It’s funny—while I’d encourage other healers to share their gifts at events, I was terrified to start my own practice. But I did it and kept practicing, allowing myself to try new things with each session. I’d play sound bowls for hours at home, practice guided meditations like speeches, and set up bowls in public spaces. I offered free Reiki sessions from my home before I had my own space. I often beat myself up over what went wrong, but then I’d hear from others about how much the session helped them. I realized it wasn’t about me—it was about their experience. No matter what you’re learning, keep practicing and trust yourself. There’s no right way to give energy or launch your brand. We all give, receive, and express ourselves in different ways, so trust your own energy.
Can you tell us about what’s worked well for you in terms of growing your clientele?
As a healer, being part of the wellness community in your area is essential. The community is here so lean into it. There are Facebook groups, flyers in coffee shops, Eventbrite gatherings, and Instagram communities. I’ve never been one to love connecting through social media, but it’s been a key part of my journey as a healer. As women, there’s so much love and support among us in this space. Don’t be afraid to attend a free networking event or invest in a wellness workshop if you can afford it. Skip a meal out and spend the $20—it’s worth it. Go to yoga classes and introduce yourself after. It may feel uncomfortable at first, but the wellness community welcomes you! It’s a collective experience. If an event doesn’t feel like home, that’s ok. Don’t give up. You’ll find your people. There are other practitioners starting out too, and you can trade services. Give a free Reiki session for a free massage. Healers love to trade! Integrating yourself into the community is one of the best ways to grow your clientele. Show up as your authentic self! No need to pretend to be advanced or have a huge following—just be you, and it will resonate with others.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://jesscurated.com
- Instagram: jessikitttty
