The Radical Massage Therapist Podcast

In this solo episode, I'm sharing the six questions that come up again and again in mentorship calls with massage therapists. These questions span pricing, scheduling, clinic loyalty, mobile massage, clinic ownership, and the desire to grow without doing more hands-on work. Through real mentoring stories and practical frameworks, this episode offers clarity, permission, and actionable steps for building a sustainable massage career.Topics CoveredRaising rates without guiltCreating balance without abandoning clientsLeaving a clinic while honoring yourselfBuilding a mobile massage practice with structureClinic ownership clarity and lease red flagsExpanding your career without adding massage hours🩵 This Episode is brought to you by ⁠Jane.app⁠ 💻 My favourite software for online booking and charting is ⁠⁠⁠⁠Jane.app⁠⁠⁠⁠ and now, the radical massage therapist community can try ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Jane.app⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for 1 Month using Code: RADICALRMT1MO__Contact The Radical Massage Therapist PodcastEmail: ⁠krista@theradicalrmt.com⁠Website: ⁠www.theradicalrmt.com⁠Instagram:⁠ @theradicalmassagetherapist⁠Let's Chat- 30 Minutes to Clarity (On Me): Book Here__Mentioned in this episode; Fear Setting- Why you should define your fears instead of your goals | Tim Ferriss | TED#075 How to Use Ghost Appointments in Your Massage Practice

What if your treatment room was doing half the work for you? In this episode of The Radical Massage Therapist Podcast, I’m joined by Jamie Smith — a former massage therapist of nearly 20 years turned interior designer and founder of Happy Haüs Studios. Jamie specializes in designing restorative spaces for healthcare providers and wellness practitioners, and she brings a rare perspective that bridges hands-on care with science-backed design.We explore why the divide between “clinical” and “relaxation” spaces doesn’t actually serve clients or therapists, how nervous system safety affects treatment outcomes, and why design choices like lighting, sound, storage, and visual clutter matter more than we’ve been taught.This conversation is practical, thoughtful, and deeply validating for massage therapists who want their work environment to support their body, their clients, and their long-term career.This Episode is brought to you by Jane.app 💻 My favourite software for online booking and charting is ⁠⁠⁠Jane.app⁠⁠⁠ and now, the radical massage therapist community can try ⁠⁠⁠⁠Jane.app⁠⁠⁠⁠ for 1 Month using Code: RADICALRMT1MO-Contact Jamie SmithHappy Haüs Studios Free DIY Treatment Room Design Guide (instant download)Online CEU Course: Treatment Room Design for PractitionersBlog: https://happyhausstudios.com/blogContact The Radical Massage Therapist PodcastEmail: krista@theradicalrmt.comWebsite: www.theradicalrmt.comInstagram: @theradicalmassagetherapist

This solo episode is a candid reflection sparked by my chat with Amy Bradley Radford on her podcast Massage. Business. Success.The thoughtful questions Amy prepared created space for real reflection — the kind we rarely slow down enough to do.I wanted to share more in this episode about what it means when your business quietly becomes the boss, how defining success as a full schedule can limit freedom, and why ownership (even as an independent contractor) changes everything. I also share a behind-the-scenes update on her upcoming meeting with an Ontario MPP regarding OCF-18 forms, how I prepared, and what advocating for our profession actually looks like in real life working alongside the RMTAO.This episode is about leadership, responsibility, mentorship, and building a massage career that supports time freedom, financial security, flexibility, and joy outside the treatment room — not one that quietly drains it.This Episode is brought to you by Jane.app 💻 My favourite software for online booking and charting is ⁠⁠Jane.app⁠⁠ and now, the radical massage therapist community can try ⁠⁠⁠Jane.app⁠⁠⁠ for 1 Month using Code: RADICALRMT1MO-Mentioned in This Episode:Amy Bradley Radford – Massage Business Success PodcastExtreme Ownership – Jocko Willink (I liked the audiobook)Registered Massage Therapists' Association of Ontario (RMTAO)Episode #139 – The Voice at the Table with Michael FeradayEpisode #140 – Define It to Deliver It: Client Expectations with Amy Bradley RadfordNo Hurry No Pause: 17 Questions that Changed My Life from with Krista Dicks, RMTTim Ferriss – 17 Questions That Changed My Life -Contact The Radical Massage Therapist Podcast📧 krista@theradicalrmt.com🌐 www.theradicalrmt.com📸 Instagram: @theradicalmassagetherapist

What if the aches and pains you’ve been told are “part of the job” actually aren’t?In this episode, I sit down with Lauriann Greene, one of the most respected voices in injury prevention and ergonomics for massage therapists. She’s been researching, writing, and teaching on this topic for nearly 30 years and is the author of Save Your Hands!: The Complete Guide to Injury Prevention and Ergonomics for Manual Therapists—a book many massage schools still recommend or require.We unpack some of the most common myths in massage education, including the idea that pain is normal, that good body mechanics alone will keep you safe, and that therapists simply need to push through discomfort. Lauriann shares the research behind injury rates in our profession, explains why injuries are multifactorial, and outlines what actually supports long-term career longevity for hands-on practitioners.We also talk about treatment room ergonomics, gradual workload increases, and how listening to your body is a professional skill—not a weakness. This conversation is grounded in evidence, experience, and deep care for the people doing the work.✨ At the end of the episode, we dive into a special listener Q&A with Lauriann, where she answers real questions from massage therapists about hands-on workload, tools, ergonomics, and practical ways to protect their bodies across a long career.If you want to keep practicing on your terms—and enjoy a full life outside the treatment room—this episode is a must listen.OFFER: Get 20% off the regular price of Save Your Hands! 3rd Edition with THIS LINKCONTACT LAURIANN:EMAIL: info@saveyourhands.comWEBSITE: https://saveyourhands.com💻 My favourite software for online booking and charting is ⁠Jane.app⁠ and now, the radical massage therapist community can try ⁠⁠Jane.app⁠⁠ for 1 Month using Code: RADICALRMT1MOCONNECT WITH THE RADICAL MASSAGE THERAPIST PODCASTEmail: krista@theradicalrmt.comWebsite: www.theradicalrmt.comInstagram: @theradicalmassagetherapist

Impostor syndrome has a way of sneaking in at every stage of a massage career—new grad, seasoned therapist, clinic owner, educator, or mentor. In this solo episode of The Radical Massage Therapist Podcast, I gett honest about what impostor syndrome has looked like across my own career, from hands-on clinical work to clinic ownership, podcasting, and leadership.This episode is a grounded conversation about confidence, self-trust, and learning how to keep moving forward even when doubt shows up. If you’ve ever questioned whether you’re “good enough,” wondered if you’re actually helping your clients, or felt like you’re somehow winging it—this episode is for you.As mentioned, this episode is inspired by this Ted Talk "How you can use impostor syndrome to your benefit | Mike Cannon-Brookes"💻 My favourite software for online booking and charting is Jane.app and now, the radical massage therapist community can try ⁠Jane.app⁠ for 1 Month using Code: RADICALRMT1MO-Connect With The Radical Massage Therapist Podcast:📧 krista@theradicalrmt.com🌐 www.theradicalrmt.com📱 Instagram: @theradicalmassagetherapist-

For our last episode of 2025, We welcome back Samantha Storozuk, RMT to the podcast for a “Reddit stories” episode diving into the wild, weird, and wonderfully relatable side of massage therapy. From client awkward moments to therapist mishaps. You’ll laugh, cringe, and leave with a few practical reminders about communication, comfort on the table, and what clients are allowed and encouraged to ask for during a treatment. In this episode, we cover:Why this format works: therapist stories + client stories (and what each teaches us) Client comfort: shifting on the table, speaking up, and “you’re not being annoying” energy What a client can do when they feel uneasy with a therapist’s vibe Therapist “oops” moments, social awkwardness, and how to recover with professionalism. -Contact Samantha Storozuk, RMTInstagram: @samanthastorozukrmt-More from Samantha Storozuk, RMTEpisode #063 "Go with the flo and sync your schedule" Union 108 -Contact The Radical Massage Therapist Podcastkrista@theradicalrmt.comwww.theradicalrmt.com@theradicalmassagetherapist-MentionedOn & Off The Table Podcast: Client Horror Stories. Real or Reddit?“Gesundheit” comes up as a sneeze-response discussion point; it’s a German word meaning “health,” commonly used after sneezing. (Merriam-Webster)

In this episode, I chat with Len Liang, double gold medalist at the 2025 World Massage Championship, to talk about what it really takes to compete—and teach—with heart.Len shares the artistry of Thai massage, how adaptability keeps therapists effective and inspired, and why being yourself is the ultimate competitive advantage.Len shares lessons from international travel, mentorship, and losing as gracefully as winning, while breaking down the misconceptions about Thai massage and showing how it can extend your career and creativity.Contact Len:Instagram: @waikru.massage Website: www.bahnthaispa.com Mentioned:Bahn Thai Spa & School (Toronto, ON): bahnthaispa.comInternational Massage AssociationITM Chiang Mai – International Training Massage School, Northern ThailandNew Massage AssociationWorld Massage FederationAmerican Massage ChampionshipCanada Massage Therapy Summit World Association of Nuad Thai and Spa Team Canada Massage CompetitorsCanadian International Massage Therapy Championship: Laval, Quebec — April 18–19, 2026Contact The Radical Massage Therapist Podcast 📧 krista@theradicalrmt.com🌐 www.theradicalrmt.com📸 Instagram: @theradicalmassagetherapist

In this episode, Krista chats with massage therapist, coach and educator Amy Bradley Radford @amybradleyradford to talk about how defining client expectations can transform your massage practice. Together they explore Amy’s six-question framework, the art of communication, and how to design a schedule that supports both your clients and your life. Perfect for massage therapists ready to fill their books, create repeat clients, and step into the CEO role of their own business.Key takeaways from this episode...Defining client expectations is crucial for success.Effective communication shapes the client experience.Understanding and adjusting pressure improves satisfaction.Tailoring each session to the individual matters.Time freedom is a real benefit of this career.Amy Bradley Radford: Coach. Educator. Massage Therapist. Encourager of Big Dreams.Discover the six simple yet powerful questions that will transform first-time massage clients into loyal, repeat customers. Download HereContact Amy Bradley Radford: Website: https://amybradleyradford.comInstagram: @amybradleyradfordContact Krista (The Radical Massage Therapist Podcast)Email: krista@theradicalrmt.comWebsite: www.theradicalrmt.comInstagram: @theradicalmassagetherapist

In this episode of The Radical Massage Therapist Podcast, I sat down with Michael Feraday, Executive Director and CEO of the Registered Massage Therapists’ Association of Ontario (RMTAO). Since 2020, Michael has been at the helm of the association, navigating the challenges of the pandemic and leading the way on advocacy for massage therapists in Ontario.As Michael shares his the role of the RMTAO as your voice at the table when decisions are being made that impact your practice. From the push for HST exemption to how massage therapy is represented in the media, Michael shares the work being done behind the scenes to strengthen the profession.We also talk about:What the RMTAO actually does and how advocacy shows up week to week.The importance of building government relationships.Why membership matters How the RMTAO helps RMTs communicates changes from the regulator into everyday practice.If you’ve ever wondered what role the RMTAO plays in your career, or why joining the association makes a difference, this episode gives you a transparent look straight from the CEO’s perspective._Contact Michael and the RMTAORMTAO website: www.rmtao.comEmail michael@rmtao.com Call: 705-828-5007 (yes, he wants to hear from you!)-Contact Krista and The Radical Massage Therapist Podcast📧 krista@theradicalrmt.com🌐 www.theradicalrmt.comIG @theradicalmassagetherapist

Colette Slone, RMT and Clinic Owner shares how freedom fuels her clinic ownership, why communication is core to care, and how small details—from intake questions to hot towels—turn good treatments into memorable experiences that keep clients returning. We cover specific prompts she uses before, during, and after sessions to earn clearer feedback and stronger results. Resources:FREE Communication Resource Guide for RMTs In this Guide Colette provides you with some examples of questions that she utilizes during her time with patients during the Intake Process, During the Treatment, and After the Treatment.Book: Stop Selling, Start Asking — Roman Kmenta Book: Massage MBA — Rachel Beider Book: Raving Fans: A Revolutionary Approach to Customer Service. Ken Blanchard and Sheldon BowlesCourse/Teacher referenced: Walt Fritz, PT on IG @waltfritzptContact Colette Slone, RMTInstagram & Facebook: @mimicomassagetherapy Email: coletteslonermt@gmail.com Contact The Radical Massage Therapist PodcastEmail: krista@theradicalrmt.comWeb: www.theradicalrmt.comIG: @theradicalmassagetherapist

In this episode, I sit down with Marta Hanrahan—RMT, Structural Integration practitioner, and owner of Myosense Clinic in Ottawa. Marta shares how her love of adventure (and a few sports injuries) led her into massage therapy, and how her career evolved from heliski operations and spas to clinic ownership and Rolfing.She also opens up about her work mentoring RMTs who are reentering the profession after stepping away, especially during the pandemic. We talk about why therapists left, what’s drawing them back, and what that return really looks like.Plus: the realities of owning a clinic, launching workshops, and why she moved her practice after 10 yearsContact MartaWebsite: www.myosense.comInstagram: @myosense_wellnessPodcast ContactEmail: krista@theradicalrmt.comWebsite: www.theradicalrmt.comInstagram: @theradicalmassagetherapist

In this dynamic roundtable episode, I chat with four radically different RMTs to explore the many ways you can run a massage practice that actually works for your life. From home-based to mobile to multidisciplinary and group practice models, these therapists share the why behind their setup, the trade-offs they’ve faced, and what makes their practices sustainable and enjoyable.Special thanks to Lisa de Souza, RMT, Aimee Sutton, RMT, Katrina Pimentel, RMt, and Shaun Castor for sharing your time to pull this episode off! Whether you’re dreaming of more freedom, flexibility, or fulfillment, this episode pulls back the curtain on what’s possible.Guests + Contact InfoLisa – Savannah Massage Therapy & Wellness Clinic Amy – Well Daze (Group Practice, Eco-conscious) Sean – Wellness on Wheels (Mobile Practice) Kat (Katrina) – KP RMT (Home Practice) Noterro (Mobile-friendly booking software)Jane App (Practice management software)Canva (Marketing/branding tool)Connor Collins –The ConCastContact The Podcastkrista@theradicalrmt.com www.theradicalrmt.com@theradicalmassagetherapist

In this solo Ask Me Anything (AMA) episode, as your podcast host, I am answering your questions about brand building, podcasting, TikTok trends, and more. From how massage therapists can show up more authentically online to what to do when clients arrive with misinformation from social media, this episode is packed with real talk and practical insights. I am also sharing how I run the podcast, what I've learned about monetization and aligning with the right sponsors, and I highlight past guest wisdom from Joanna Sapir and Trevor Chisman.🔹 Topics Covered:Brand-building tips for RMTsHow trends on TikTok affect client expectationsThe time it takes to run a podcastWhat’s really in a podcast media kitWhy some therapists struggle with creating contentHow I support other massage therapists through mentorshipResources and Mentions:Joanna Sapir – Episodes #46 & #120Trevor Chisman – Episode #93My Free 15-Minute To Clarity Chat: Book herePop Up Podcasting (Ottawa studio)Connor Collins: The Concast ContactEmail: krista@theradicalrmt.comWebsite: www.theradicalrmt.comInstagram: @theradicalmassagetherapist

In this episode of The Radical Massage Therapist, I'm chatting with Aimee Sutton, founder of Well Daze Collective.Topics include:How and why Aimee rebranded her clinic into a collectiveWhat functional sustainability looks like in a massage practiceCreating a non-competitive, collaborative work environmentTips for treating infants, kids, and supporting new parentsMentorship, motherhood, and staying adaptable as a long-term RMTAimee’s upcoming expansion to a 7-room wellness studio!About Aimee:Aimee has been a RMT since 2008,  opening her first practice in 2014 to create a collaborative space where therapists can work together in a unique wellness setting. In 2021 a rebrand for her studio brought her passion for wellness and eco-consciousness together to create the sustainable wellness studio now known as well daze collective.Aimee is also a CIMT (Certified Infant Massage Trainer)  working with babies to teach parents and care givers techniques to help massage their babies. ​-WELL DAZE COLLECTIVE , Guelph, ON www.welldaze.ca IG @well.dazeAt Home Guide for Baby Massage-Email: krista@theradicalrmt.comWebsite: www.theradicalrmt.comIG: @theradicalmassagetherapist-Mentioned in this episodeWell Daze Collective on InstagramThe Unscented Company (Canadian eco-product brand)Dixon’s Distilled Spirits (hand sanitizer during COVID)Sustainable product line by Aimee Gua Sha + TMJ + cupping references

Are you waiting for the perfect moment to open your clinic? In this episode of The Radical Massage Therapist Podcast, I am sharing the real-life lessons I learned about what I thought I needed before becoming a clinic owner—and how most of it simply isn’t required (it's BS really)Tune in to hear my candid reflections on:Why home ownership has nothing to do with business successWhether you truly need to be the busiest RMT before opening a clinicFinancing your clinic—even without perfect savings or creditWhy going solo might be the best business decisionLearning by doing—and why you’ll never feel “fully ready”If you’ve been telling yourself “I’ll open a clinic when…”—this episode is your sign to get moving!-Email: krista@theradicalrmt.comWebsite: www.theradicalrmt.comInstagram: @theradicalmassagetherapist

In this episode of The Radical Massage Therapist Podcast, I am joined by Susan Anderson, RMT and founder of The Buccal Lab. With over 20 years of experience, Susan shares her journey from nearly stepping away from massage therapy to finding renewed purpose and passion through Buccal Massage.We discuss what Buccal Massage really is (hint: it’s way more than intraoral work), how it benefits both clients and therapists, and why it’s gaining traction across social platforms. Susan opens up about emotional client experiences, misconceptions around the technique, and why this isn’t a passing trend — it’s a powerful addition to any RMT's toolkit.If you’ve ever felt curious about facial work or are looking for a sustainable, effective way to support your clients and protect your own body, this episode is for you.Contact Susanthebuccallab@gmail.comthebuccallab.thinkific.comIG @thebuccallab​​Mentioned in this episode:Algonquin College https://www.algonquincollege.com/Craniosacral Therapy https://www.upledger.com/-Contact The Radical Massage TherapistIG: @theradicalmassagetherapistWebsite: www.theradicalmassagetherapist.comEmail: Krista@theradicalrmt.com

Have you ever thought: “I don’t even like massage anymore”? You’re not alone—and it doesn’t mean your career is over.In this solo episode, I share what it really means when you start hating your massage career. Whether you’re new or seasoned, these moments of questioning your path are totally normal—and often a sign of growth.You’ll learn how to identify the root of your dissatisfaction, how to reignite your interest in the profession, and what to do if you’re seriously considering leaving massage therapy behind.This episode is for you if:You dread going to work and don’t know whyYou feel stuck, overbooked, underpaid, or just uninspiredYou’re considering quitting—but don’t know what else to do-Contact The Radical Massage Therapist PodcastWebsite: theradicalrmt.comInstagram: @theradicalmassagetherapistEmail: krista@theradicalrmt.comBook 15 Minutes of Clarity: Book Here

In this episode, I chat with Colleen Weibel, a massage therapist practicing in New York State @newleafmassage. Colleen offers a thoughtful comparison of what it's like to practice massage in the U.S. versus Canada . We talk about regulation, public perception, continuing education, and how each country's system shapes the therapist experience.What We Cover:The difference between luxury vs. healthcare in how massage is viewedLicensing, CE requirements, and practice freedoms across bordersThe value of flexibility in Colleen’s career (as a parent and traveler)Why collaboration between countries could benefit the whole profession-About Colleen:Colleen is the owner & licensed massage therapist at New Leaf Massage Therapy.She is nationally certified in therapeutic massage & bodywork as well as licensed by the State of New York in massage therapy.Colleen has operated her private practice for the last 15 years in a small, rural community in Central NY-Contact Colleen: email: colleen@newleafmassagetherapy.netInstagram: @newleafmassagewebsite: newleafmassagetherapy.net-Contact The Radical Massage Therapist Podcast ⁠www.theradicalrmt.com⁠krista@theradicalrmt.com⁠@theradicalmassagetherapist⁠

In this episode of The Radical Massage Therapist Podcast, I’m joined by Julie Romero, a massage therapist redefining mobile massage in Wilmington, North Carolina. Julie shares her inspiring journey from public school teacher to massage therapist and how a personal tragedy led her to a bold new chapter of her career. After frustrations owning a brick and mortar practice she had the bold idea to convert an old shuttle bus into a fully functional mobile massage studio "Hands in the Sands". Julie’s story is a reminder that even after life’s hardest moments, we can rebuild something beautiful — sometimes on wheelsWe dive into:- How Julie pivoted into massage therapy after 16 years as a teacher- The challenges and creativity behind converting a shuttle bus into a massage studio- Why she left traditional brick-and-mortar spaces behind- How her mobile studio offers freedom, flexibility, and a deeper connection with clients- The powerful role of touch in healing and how tragedy shaped her career Contact Julie:IG @handsinthesands FB: handsinthesandsEmail: handsinthesands@gmail.comWebsite: www.handsinthesands.comIG: @theradicalmassagetherapistWebsite: www.theradicalmassagetherapist.comEmail: Krista@theradicalrmt.com

In this episode of The Radical Massage Therapist Podcast, I chat with Olivia Sadler, RMT—an educator, mobile massage therapist, and end-of-life care advocate. Olivia shares her powerful journey into palliative and hospice massage, how personal loss shaped her purpose, and what it truly means to show up for someone in their most vulnerable moments. This episode touches on boundaries, grief, ethics, emotional regulation, and redefining self-care—not just for clients, but for massage therapists too.Whether you're curious about compassionate touch, hospice work, or building a more sustainable practice, this conversation will leave you moved, inspired, and radically reconnected to your purpose.- Olivia’s Website & Workshop Details: Anada MassageEnd-of-Life Doula Certificate Program: University of VermontAdditional Doula Training Options: Douglas College, Institute for Traditional Medicine (Toronto)Follow Olivia: @oliviasadlerrmt-⁠www.theradicalrmt.com⁠krista@theradicalrmt.com⁠@theradicalmassagetherapist⁠