Episode 077: Massage Meets Research: Building an Evidence Base for Massage Therapy
Discover how research can transform massage therapy in this insightful exploration featuring Rona Moore, Dr. Jan Douglass, and Dr. Sarah Fogarty. From case studies to practice-based evidence, learn actionable steps to contribute to the evidence base, overcome barriers, and enhance the credibility of massage therapy in healthcare. Perfect for therapists eager to grow and make a lasting impact.
Episode 74: Certified for Success: Raising Standards in Massage Therapy with Charlotte Keane and Paul Averill
Charlotte Keane and Paul Averill from Massage & Myotherapy Australia discuss the Certified Practitioner program, an initiative that sets clear standards for massage therapists across Australia. Developed by Massage Myotherapy Australia to meet ISO9001 standards, this certification offers therapists a way to distinguish themselves as safe, qualified, and reliable professionals. For anyone looking to elevate their practice, certification is more than just a title—it’s a commitment to excellence.
Episode 073: Caring for the Whole Person: Ronna Moore on Palliative Massage
We reconnect with Ronna Moore to explore the holistic approach of palliative and oncology massage. Ronna shares insights on building trust, addressing myths, and embracing self-care while supporting clients through life’s most vulnerable moments. Discover the profound impact of caring for the whole person and the essential role of massage in enhancing quality of life.
Episode 072: Your Personal Brand and End-to-End Client Care with Randall Cooper
Randall Cooper’s journey from a 16-year-old recovering from an ACL injury to an internationally recognized sports physiotherapist is nothing short of inspiring. In this episode of Folding Towels, Randall shares his story of resilience, the importance of building a personal brand, and how creating a consistent, end-to-end client experience is key to success in the health and wellness industry. As the founder of Premax, a leading sports skincare brand, and Learn.Physio, an online education platform for health professionals, Randall’s entrepreneurial spirit shines through. His passion for helping others, both in clinical practice and through education, continues to drive his work.
Episode 070 – Carolyn Boldt – Transforming Your Massage Environment for Better Client Experiences
In this episode Jackie and David dive into how we’re each planning for the year ahead, both in our businesses and personal lives. David talks about his need for structure – how he plans holidays, blocks out family time, and makes sure important dates are locked in early so he can be fully present. Jackie shares her more flexible approach to scheduling and how she balances the unpredictability of life with her business. We also cover some essential housekeeping for massage therapists, like reviewing your annual costs, planning price increases, and staying on top of things like first aid certifications and insurance. And let’s not forget the importance of self-care – booking regular massages, making time for hobbies, and finding joy outside of work are things we can’t ignore. Whether you’re a detailed planner like me or prefer to take things as they come like Jackie, this episode is all about helping you find balance and get set up for a rewarding and manageable year ahead.
Episode 069: Ronna Moore – From Practitioner to Researcher – a career in Oncology and Palliative Massage
In this episode of Folding Towels, Jackie and David chat with Ronna Moore, a massage therapist and researcher in Melbourne, Australia. What started out as curiosity in 1982, Ronna shares how she developed her passion for manual lymphatic drainage and oncology massage over a 40-year career. As an advocate for publicly accessible massage in cancer care, Ronna explains the barriers she’s worked to overcome and her ongoing efforts to make massage therapy a standard part of healthcare. Now, as a PhD candidate, she explores the intersection of research, advocacy, and practice, all while remaining committed to the core values that have guided her remarkable career.
Episode 066 : Garry Lavis – Massage for People With Parkinson’s Disease
Join David as he chats with Garry Lavis, the National President of Massage & Myotherapy Australia. With over 23 years of experience, Garry’s journey from a diesel mechanic to an expert in massage therapy. Like most of us, much of Garry’s work revolves around working with people with muscular skeletal needs – mostly tradies. However, Garry has developed a deep love for working with clients diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease, revealing how tailored massage techniques can significantly improve mobility, manage symptoms like stiffness and tremors, and enhance their overall quality of life. Garry discusses the emotional challenges of working with progressive conditions, the importance of understanding medication schedules, and the collaborative care model. He is working to develop an Australian training module in conjunction with Parkinson’s Australia so that therapists can get the critical information they need to have real impact with people with Parkinson’s disease.