Why Massage Therapists Love Working at Squeeze Massage

In the world of franchising, the strength of a brand is often mirrored by the satisfaction of its employees. At Squeeze, the upscale massage franchise from the founders of Drybar, this correlation is particularly strong. Squeeze isn't just a haven for those seeking relaxation and rejuvenation — it's also often a dream workplace for massage therapists. Here's a closer look at why massage therapists are flocking to Squeeze and how this contributes to its robust franchise opportunity.

A Therapist-Centric Approach: Real Stories from Real Therapists

Ixchel's Journey: Full Circle to Fulfillment at Squeeze Massage

Ixchel, the Lead Therapist at Squeeze Scottsdale, brings a wealth of experience and a deep passion for massage therapy to her role. Her journey, which began nearly 20 years ago, has taken her across various landscapes of the massage therapy world, from private practice to resort spas and chiropractor's offices. This diverse background has uniquely positioned her to appreciate what Squeeze offers, both to guests and therapists.

“Squeeze has created a space that not only caters to the guest needs for an exceptional massage, but they tend to the therapist's needs, as well,” said Ixchel. “The room size is larger than any other space I've been in, for example. For a therapist to have longevity in their career, proper body mechanics are essential. Most places attempt to fit as many rooms in the space as they can to increase profits. At Squeeze, having a proper work space helps me to work well. I know my guest feels the difference.”

Describing her typical day, Ixchel paints a picture of a supportive and collaborative environment. “The day starts by arriving for your shift 15 to 30 minutes early — I like to not feel rushed when I set up, and if it's slow, I'm available to support other squad members,” she said. This team-oriented approach is a testament to the culture at Squeeze, Ixchel says, where everyone from the General Manager to the Massage Therapists to the Front Desk team goes above and beyond to support, encourage and learn from each other.

“They truly embrace and perform our core values — Curious and Confident, The Feel-Good Revolution and especially Do What You Love. It shows in the energy in the space and the smiles on their faces,” Ixchel said, highlighting the positive and nurturing work atmosphere at Squeeze.

And Ixchel's experience at Squeeze extends beyond the massage suite. She recently had the opportunity to represent Squeeze at the AMTA National Conference, a platform for industry professionals. “From that experience, I made professional and personal connections. It was a first for me, and I learned so much,” she said.

As a Lead Therapist, Ixchel appreciates the role's focus on mentorship rather than mere supervision. “I like that I get to support the squad in learning and growing into even better massage therapists,” she said. “At Squeeze, communication works both ways. It helps us better know and understand each other.”

An example she gives is the implementation of a therapist's suggestion to stack sheets more efficiently or simple yet meaningful initiatives like using a whiteboard in the breakroom for team interactions. Ixchel also appreciates the unique recognition system at Squeeze, particularly the “Pats on the Back,” which can be given to fellow team members for appreciating the little things and redeemed for cash or gift cards, she finds an effective way to acknowledge and encourage her team.

“The sense of community, inclusivity and support I receive from my squad and my leadership have been the most rewarding thing about Squeeze for me,” Ixchel said. “The monthly, if not daily, sense of support, acknowledgement and encouragement has meant so much to me and has made Squeeze one of the best places I've worked.”

Shaquila's Path: From Nursing Aspirations to Massage Mastery

Shaquila, the Co-Lead Therapist at Squeeze Brentwood, brings a unique perspective to her role, having initially pursued a career in nursing. Her transition from aspiring ER nurse to a master in massage therapy is a story of finding one's true passion and the ideal environment to nurture it.

“I learned that work sometimes comes home with you, and I personally did not want that for myself,” said Shaquila. “I looked into other ways I could help people feel their best without prescribing medication to them and came across massage therapy. I was attracted to Squeeze because of the love they have for employees. I do not have to break my back in order to have full time benefits and there is flexibility in scheduling.”

At Squeeze, Shaquila found a work environment that redefined her expectations of a job. “I truthfully enjoy waking up and coming into work. It doesn't feel like a job to me,” she said. “I feel valued as an employee and know that if any situation arises, they have my back 100%. I thought I would just be a Massage Therapist here at Squeeze, but here I am a year later and promoted to a Co-Lead!”

Shaquila describes a typical day at Squeeze as diverse and fulfilling. It involves training new hires, working on guests and building relationships with her squad. “The only thing I truly have to worry about is getting my hot towels ready and setting my suite to guests' preferences,” she said.

At Squeeze, Shaquila highlights the ample opportunities for professional growth, including reimbursement for continuing education courses. "If you apply yourself, there are a lot of opportunities to grow within the company," she said. “The reimbursement towards continuing education courses is major. We receive a $200 reimbursement for taking continuing education courses.”

For Shaquila, one of the most significant aspects of working at Squeeze is the sense of being valued and heard in a judgment-free zone. She emphasizes the importance of therapist-guest relationships and the company's understanding of the challenges therapists face. The company's open-door policy, anonymous feedback boxes, and Squeeze Squad Sessions contribute to a culture of bonding and continuous improvement.

“At Squeeze Brentwood, we have great communication with each other and can often have open discussions in the breakroom and work towards solutions,” said Shaquila. “If the issue is personal and I feel as though it'll cause strife amongst the team, we direct it to our General Manager and she can often provide a solution to the therapist. Overall, we are taken care of, we are heard and our support team really understands what we go through as therapists.”

Shaquila says she values the emphasis on accountability and the understanding of a work-life balance, underscoring that therapists are never forced into uncomfortable situations and are encouraged to maintain a healthy life outside of work.

“I love the fellowship, open ears and benefits! Listening to the team speak of Squeeze during recruiting, you're not sure if it's a gimmick or what,” said Shaquila. “After officially working for the company, they definitely live up to the hype.”

Stephanie's Experience: A New Chapter in Massage Therapy at Squeeze Massage

Stephanie, a dedicated massage therapist at Squeeze Studio City, spent 13 years working primarily in chiropractic offices before seeking a change from the medical massage setting. She was initially drawn to Squeeze for its inclusive approach to massage therapy, catering to a wide range of guest needs.

“Squeeze is for everyone, which means you can get a variety of guests who want different types of massage,” said Stephanie. “Some come in just to relax and some come in for problem areas. I love the atmosphere that Squeeze has. Everyone who works there always comes in a good mood and has such high energy. They genuinely seem to love what they do.”

In terms of her day to day life, Stephanie greatly enjoys the flexibility and variability that her role at Squeeze offers. “I like that every shift is different — it's not a 9-5, unless you want it that way,” she said. “I get to do my job without any stress and I don’t leave work feeling drained and exhausted.”

As a work environment, Squeeze stands out to Stephanie for its focus on the well-being of its therapists. “My absolute favorite thing Squeeze offers us as employees is a free massage every month,” she said. “It shows that they care about our well being and help us once a month to unwind and get some me time.”

Squeeze's support for continuous education and professional development also stands out, Stephanie says.

“They always encourage us to learn something new and give us a stipend for continuing education classes,” she said. “We do in-house classes, and it's always a different coworker showing us a new technique or just the way they perform their massages — and we can all chime in during these sessions. We have weekly updates and if any problems or concerns arise with anyone at work, it is always addressed and it makes us as therapists really feel heard. They are constantly helping us in any way they can.”

Similarly, Stephanie highlights the strong camaraderie within the team and the supportive management as critical elements of her positive experience at Squeeze. The transparent and accommodating nature of the management team, coupled with the flexible scheduling, ensures that the therapists can maintain a healthy balance between their professional and personal lives.

“They are true to their values,” said Stephanie. “Now that Squeeze is franchising, it is allowing us as therapists to grow with this company and opening up different opportunities while still being able to be involved in the massage industry.” Stephanie now serves as a Lead Therapist Trainer for new shop openings and travels around the country training massage therapists at new Squeeze shops.

Why This Matters for Franchisees

For Operating Partners, having a team of content, dedicated and skilled massage therapists is invaluable. Squeeze's focus on team member satisfaction translates into a strong, stable workforce, making it an even more attractive franchise opportunity. This is especially significant in an industry where finding and retaining quality staff can be challenging.

"We are experts in the wellness industry, and we know that Squeeze has a magnetic appeal and tremendous potential,” said Brittany Driscoll, Squeeze co-founder and CEO. “We're actively looking to expand our franchise network across the country, and we're keen on finding partners who not only have strong business acumen but also a genuine passion for positively impacting their communities.”

With over 85 locations in development and ambitious expansion plans, Squeeze is not just a thriving brand in the wellness industry — it's a community where each participant, from the Operating Partner to the Massage Therapist, plays a vital role in creating an environment of growth, satisfaction and excellence.

For more information on franchising with Squeeze, visit: https://1851franchise.com/squeezemassage/info