The Radical Massage Therapist Podcast

In this episode I welcome back Heather Rivers, Registered Massage Therapist and clinic owner based in Durham Region, Ontario. Heather is the founder of Rivers Massage Therapy, where she specializes in injury rehab, chronic pain, and mental health support through evidence-based therapeutic touch. But beyond her work in the treatment room, Heather is on a mission to help RMTs across Ontario and Canada create safer, more empowered workspaces.This conversation is a powerful preview of her new one-day virtual workshop, Secure Practice: a must for any RMT who wants to take responsibility for preventing harassment and abuse in their massage therapy practice.Insights from our discussion and what to expect from her virtual course: How to prevent inappropriate behaviour before it reaches your clinic or mobile practiceIdentify practice-specific risks and learn how to reduce themSet clear, professional boundaries without guilt or over-explainingUse scripts, policies, and technology to protect your energy, time, and safetyWalk away with an actionable plan, downloadable templates, and new confidenceWant in? Learn more and sign up: riversmassagetherapy.caUse code firstclass at checkout for early bird pricing Email Heather: heather@riversrmt.caIG: @riversrmt and @thesocialrmt- Podcast Stuff IG: @theradicalmassagetherapistWebsite: www.theradicalmassagetherapist.comEmail: Krista@theradicalrmt.com

Jenn Slade, a manual therapist and movement educator specializing in Structural Integration and Myofascial Bodywork, shares her transformative journey from aspiring doctor to massage therapist. She dives into the profound role of fascia in bodywork and her passion for dissection labs. Slade discusses the importance of mentorship in honing one’s practice, the challenges of transitioning from traditional massage to a more holistic approach, and the need for integrating movement education into therapy for better client care.

Discover how the 80/20 Rule can transform your massage practice by focusing on the key tasks that yield the best results. Learn to identify high-value clients and automate your workflows to increase efficiency. Dive into Parkinson’s Law to optimize productivity and set manageable deadlines. Explore effective time management techniques, including batching tasks, for a balanced career. This enlightening discussion aims to help you work smarter, embrace freedom, and achieve sustainable success without burnout.

Journaling has been a huge part of my life, but recently, I did something I never thought I would—I shredded my journals. In this episode, I share why I made this decision, how it’s helped me let go of the past, and what I learned from rereading years of personal entries. If you’ve ever wondered whether holding onto your journals is helping you or keeping you stuck, this episode is for you.In This Episode: ✅ The morning pages method from Julia Cameron’s The Artist’s Way✅ Why keeping journals can sometimes hold you back ✅ How I realized my biggest values (like freedom!) through my old entries ✅ Facing fears and imposter syndrome—over and over again ✅ What journaling taught me about goal-setting and taking action.🎧 I hope you enjoy this episode! Resources & Links Mentioned: 📖 The Artist’s Way by Julia Cameron 📌 Follow Courtney Carver (@bemorewithless) 🎙 More episodes of The Radical Massage Therapist https://theradicalrmt.com 📩 Let’s connect on Instagram! @theradicalmassagetherapist -Hey Radical Massage Therapists! If you're loving the podcast and want to help keep it going strong, you can fuel the show by buying me a coffee (or tea, or matcha!) ☕ It's a small way to show your support and help me keep bringing you all the good stuff—real talk, inspiring guests, and everything you need to build a sustainable massage practice. Just head over to buymeacoffee.com/radicalmassagetherapist and treat me to a little caffeine boost. I appreciate you!

In this episode of The Radical Massage Therapist Podcast, DJ Turner returns for a powerful follow-up conversation about scaling a massage practice beyond solo work. We explore the key mindset shifts needed to transition from therapist to CEO, how to know when it’s time to hire, and why delegation and systems are essential for long-term success.DJ shares insights on: The external and internal signs that signal it’s time to start a group practice. The biggest mistakes therapists make when hiring their first team member. How to step out of the treatment room without losing income. The role of leadership in running a successful group practice. Why systems are the secret to consistent growth. If you’ve ever wondered how to scale your practice, reduce burnout, and create a business that supports your vision of freedom and financial success, this episode is a must-listen!Resources Mentioned:🔗 Website - www.scalingwellness.com 🎙️ Podcast - The Scaling Wellness Podcast📱Instagram - @scalingwellness 🎧 Listen to DJ’s First Episode Here: #51 Scaling Up To Scale Back In Your Business 📩 Connect with Krista Dicks, Host of The Radical Massage Therapist Podcast on Instagram: @theradicalmassagetherapist🔗 Website: www.theradicalrmt.com📧 krista@theradicalrmt.com

In this episode ofThe Radical Massage Therapist podcast, we welcome back business strategist Joanna Sapir for an insightful conversation on the crucial differences between marketing and sales. Many massage therapists believe they need more marketing, but Joanna reveals that most are actually missing a structuredsales process.Together, we explore how to:Attract and enroll great-fit clients rather than just filling your schedule with anyone.Develop a sustainable business model that provides consistent income and freedom.Stop selling single sessions and start offering structured treatment plans for better client outcomes.Use consultations effectively to pre-qualify clients and build long-term relationships.Shift from "marketing mode" to "leadership mode" to create content that truly connects with the right people.If you’re struggling with rebooking, inconsistent income, or burnout, this episode will give you a new approach to building a fulfilling, financially sustainable massage practice.🎧 Listen now and take control of your business!-Website:https://joannasapir.com/🔥 Ready to grow your business without trading time for money or burning out? Joanna Sapir (my amazing podcast guest) is here to show you how at herFREE Empowered Practitioner Event from February 17-21!💥This 5-day event includes free training, live coaching calls, and prizes! 🙌 You’ll learn how to make more money, get better results for your clients, and work less! Sign Up Here

In this episode of The Radical Massage Therapist, I welcome Ali Boehm, a massage business strategist and educator, to discuss safety and self-defense for massage therapists. Ali shares her journey of creating the Empowered Practitioner workshop, a transformative course designed to equip therapists with the tools to build confidence, establish boundaries, and enhance personal and professional safety. Topics covered include: The importance of assertive communication and intuitive awareness. Self-defense techniques tailored for massage therapists. Strategies to avoid becoming a target in and out of the treatment room. Role-playing and scenario training for handling uncomfortable situations. How safety skills can positively impact therapists' confidence, client relationships, and overall business success. Ali also discusses the role of clinic owners in supporting their teams and fostering a culture of safety. Whether you're a seasoned therapist or new to the field, this episode provides actionable insights to protect yourself and empower your practice. Contact information: IG: https://www.instagram.com/the.massage.business.mama/ Website: https://themassagebusinessmama.com/ Podcast "Align with The Massage Business Mama." Course https://aliboehm360.lpages.co/empowered-practitioner/  - IG: @theradicalmassagetherapist Website: www.theradicalmassagetherapist.com Email: Krista@theradicalrmt.com

Elaine Santala, an accomplished Registered Massage Therapist with nearly 32 years of experience, shares her journey of adaptability and passion for her craft. She discusses how she navigated career pivots, injury, and burnout while maintaining her love for massage therapy. Elaine highlights the importance of relaxation massage in client care and provides practical strategies for rebooking and fostering client relationships. Listeners gain insights on creating a fulfilling work-life balance and evolving their practice to align with personal growth.

In this episode of The Radical Massage Therapist Podcast, I chat with Ashley Culp, a registered massage therapist with a passion for accessible, client-centered care. Based in Carleton Place, Ontario, Ashley has built a thriving solo practice that emphasizes inclusivity, offering services like craniosacral therapy, manual lymphatic drainage, visceral manipulation, and more. Ashley shares her journey from a back injury that led her to massage therapy as a second career to becoming a solo practitioner known for her innovative approach. She discusses how offering free 15-minute consultations has enhanced her client relationships, improved accessibility, and set her apart in the industry. Ashley also highlights the importance of setting boundaries to avoid burnout and maintain a sustainable practice. What you'll learn in this episode... The benefits of offering free consultations for both clients and practitioners. How to set boundaries to achieve work-life balance in a solo practice. Ashley’s perspective on making massage therapy more accessible and inclusive. The importance of integrating diverse modalities to meet individual client needs. How personal challenges can shape a rewarding and sustainable career. Connect with Ashley: Website: ashleyculprmt.com Instagram: @ashleyculprmt Facebook: Ashley Culp RMT Connect with The Radical Massage Therapist Podcast: IG: @theradicalmassagetherapist Website: www.theradicalmassagetherapist.com Email: Krista@theradicalrmt.com

In this episode I chat with fellow RMT and clinic owner Lisa de Souza to discuss the ins and outs of coming across as a professional candidate for massage therapy positions. We dive into the importance of making a strong first impression and explore the fine line between transparency and oversharing during interviews. Lisa shares her insights on the value of researching clinics before applying and emphasizes the significance of enthusiasm, professionalism, and effective communication throughout the interview process. Our conversation also covers the benefits of hands-on interviews, the necessity of flexibility with scheduling, and why asking insightful questions is key to a successful interview process. This episode offers valuable tips for massage therapists looking to make a lasting impression and find the right fit for their massage practice whether they are new to the profession or looking for a change in location. I hope you enjoy this episode with Lisa! Contact Lisa de Souza Instagram: @savannahmassagetherapyclinic Website: www.savannahmassage.ca - Contact The Radical Massage Therapist Podcast IG: @theradicalmassagetherapist Website: www.theradicalmassagetherapist.com Email: Krista@theradicalrmt.com