The Health Leader Podcast

🎙️ 2025 Wrap Up – The Health Leader Co What a year. In this special wrap-up episode, Elicia, Christine, and James reflect on an extraordinary 2025. From global conferences and industry-leading training to podcast highlights, unexpected opportunities, and a LOT of Zoom hours, this episode is a behind-the-scenes look at what it really takes to lead, grow, and evolve in the health and bodywork industry. We revisit standout podcast guests, international events like LYMPHYCON and the International Bowen Global Summit, the Massage & Myotherapy Australia Conference, Health Leader Mastery intensives, and the continued growth of Gentle Scar Therapy around the world. You'll also hear personal reflections on family, study, career pivots, and the lessons that shaped the year, plus a glimpse of what's coming in 2026, including events you may be able to attend. If you're a therapist, clinic owner, or health professional creating a practice you love, this episode will leave you feeling grounded, inspired, and excited for what's next. 🎧 Listen in and wrap up 2025 with us. Links: LymphyCon 2026 https://lymphbalance.com/lymphycon-welcome/about-lymphycon Massage Myotherapy Australia - National Conference 2026 - Geelong, Vic https://www.massagemyotherapy.com.au/Professionalism-and-Excellence/2026-National-Conference Massage Therapy Media https://www.massagetherapymedia.com/ Gentle Scar Therapy  https://healthleaderco.com/gentle-scar-therapy Hands on Work Shops for The Health Leader Co in 2026 https://healthleaderco.com/workshops Geelong - February 7th and 8th Calgary, Canada - April Cairns - July  October - where do you want us to come?          

In this inspiring interview, James sits down with Brad Hiskins - one of Australia's most respected names in the massage industry and co-founder of MWax, for an in-depth look at what it really takes to achieve long-term success as a therapist and business owner. Drawing on over 35 years of experience, Brad unpacks his five core rules for building a sustainable massage career. Hear rom how Brad built his first clinic with just $3,000 to the business lessons learned from his time at the Australian Institute of Sport. The episode also covers the real-world challenges of starting and scaling a clinic, the importance of being "extraordinary" in your field, and Brad's favourite innovative marketing technique. If that's not enough, Brad shares wisdom on mentorship, building networks, ethical promotion, and why passion is the ultimate ingredient for thriving in the massage industry. Links: - Click here to read Brad's "5 Rules" article - Clinic88: clinic88.com.au - MWax: mwax.com.au

In this episode, we chat with Ibrahim Samaan, founder and CEO of Purifas - an Australian-owned medical hygiene manufacturer on a mission to raise the bar for cleanliness, efficiency, and client comfort in therapy spaces. Ibrahim shares how his journey from physiotherapist to innovator led to developing sustainable, time-saving products used in clinics across the world. We explore how Purifas reduces laundry, boosts client experience, and offers fully recyclable single-use solutions - plus how you can try their full product range for free!

In this episode, we sit down with Bruce Stark, a former U.S. policy maker who made the bold leap from criminal justice research to full-time bodywork practitioner and trainer. Bruce shares how a personal experience with Ortho-Bionomy changed his life, how he became an "accidental therapist," and why after 30+ years - he's still deeply in love with this gentle, transformative modality. We talk about: What Ortho-Bionomy actually is and why it's so effective Why client and practitioner comfort is central to long-term success How Bruce transitioned careers (and countries!) to follow his calling His advice for therapists seeking longevity and fulfillment in the profession If you've ever questioned your path or wanted a deeper connection to your work, this episode will reignite your purpose. 🔗 Links: brucestark.com.au

In this episode, Alicia chats with Ann Davey, CEO of Massage & Myotherapy Australia, live from the 20th National Conference in Perth. They unpack the highlights of this sold-out event - from standout presenters like Emma Holly, Robert Libbey, and Marty Fry, to big conversations around AI, business compliance, and building lasting community connections. Ann shares what goes into planning an event of this size, why networking matters more than ever, and what's ahead for the 2026 conference in Geelong. If you've ever wondered what makes a professional conference truly special - or you're thinking of attending the next one - this episode will give you all the inside scoop! Links: https://www.massagemyotherapy.com.au/Professionalism-and-Excellence/2026-National-Conference    

Discover how transforming your physical space can transform your mindset in this episode of the Health Leader Podcast. James sits down with decluttering coach Lauren Winzar, who shares her unique approach to decluttering - not just as a way to tidy up, but as a powerful tool for self-awareness, emotional wellbeing, and even business success. Lauren explains how the patterns we use to manage our physical environment reflect our internal processes, and how becoming conscious of these patterns can help reduce overwhelm, improve relationships, and create a more harmonious workspace. Tune in for practical strategies, inspiring stories, and a fresh perspective on the deep connection between our surroundings and our state of mind. Links: www.laurenwinzar.com.au   https://www.facebook.com/LWDeclutteringCoach  https://www.instagram.com/laurenwinzar/   

This week, Elicia sits down with Scott Dartnell - Massage Therapy Hall of Fame inductee, clinic pioneer, and co-creator of the World Massage Conference - for an energising conversation about shaping the massage industry over 33 years. Scott shares his journey from founding Canada's first accredited private multidisciplinary clinic to launching major international conferences and building Massage Therapy Media, the "Netflix for massage therapists." Discover what keeps Scott inspired after decades in the field, why community and in-person connection matter more than ever, and how his passion continues to elevate the profession worldwide. Links: https://www.massagetherapymedia.com/ https://www.massagetherapymedia.com/virtual-events https://www.instagram.com/massagetherapymedia/    

Jarrod Fritz's journey into the world of sports massage and bodywork is anything but ordinary. In this episode, Jarrod shares how a series of "happy accidents" led him from considering a career in medicine to becoming a sought-after sports therapist, educator, strongman competitor, and professional wrestling referee. With over two decades of experience, he's worked with elite athletes at the Olympics, WWE, and US Soccer, blending hands-on expertise with a passion for teaching and personal growth. Through candid stories and practical insights, Jarrod discusses the realities of working at the highest levels of sport, the importance of adaptability and humility, and why genuine curiosity is essential for both practitioners and educators. He also opens up about the lessons strength sports have taught him, the value of being present, and how caring for others-whether clients, students, or rescue cats-shapes his approach to life and work.

In this energetic episode of the Health Leader Podcast, Christine Knox chats with the incredible Robin Devine – an internationally trained lymphatic therapist, passionate educator, and the mastermind behind LymphyCon, a superhero-themed conference for all things lymph! Robin shares: Why she calls herself a "lymphomaniac" 😄 How LymphyCon started in her hometown of Calgary and grew into a global event What makes this conference unmissable for massage therapists, bodyworkers, and wellness professionals A sneak peek into the quirky lymph superhero squad (👋 Nancy Node and The Lymph Collector!) And why this year's event is bigger, better, and more accessible than ever – whether you're attending in person or tuning in from across the world 🌍 If you've ever wondered why lymphatics matter (and how to make learning about them FUN), this episode is for you. 🎟️ Tickets + access info at: https://lymphycon.com 📅 LymphyCon 2025 is happening April 26–27 🎥 Replay access available for 12 months

In this episode, we chat with Norelle Pratt, founder of HR for Health Leaders, about how to grow your allied health team with confidence. Norelle shares her experience from both running a clinic and working in HR for over 15 years. We talk about the real differences between hiring employees, using contractors, or renting out rooms - and what the law actually says about each option. Norelle explains how to set up pay, bonuses, and KPIs, and how to make sure you're following the rules with things like superannuation and tax. We also cover how to work out what you can afford to pay, how to keep your business profitable, and why it's important to be clear about your expectations when hiring. If you're thinking about growing your team or want to make sure you're doing things right, this episode is full of practical tips and real stories from the field. Links: https://hrforhealthleaders.com.au Wages & Profitability Worksheet: https://hrforhealthleaders.com.au/lm-profitability-worksheet

In this episode, James, Elicia, and Christine dive into the fascinating and often challenging world of ethics in massage therapy, exploring the grey areas that professionals encounter in their daily practice. From navigating difficult client conversations to setting clear professional boundaries and safeguarding confidentiality, they share real-life stories and scenarios that are equal parts insightful, thought-provoking, and entertaining. The trio tackles questions like how to address inappropriate client behaviour, manage dual relationships, and deal with ethical dilemmas that arise unexpectedly. You'll gain valuable insights into handling sensitive situations with confidence and grace while learning practical strategies to uphold ethical standards in your practice.

In this episode, we delve into the critical world of cybersecurity for small businesses with Kimberly from Cyber Wardens. Kimberly shares valuable insights on the common cyber threats that small businesses face, such as business email compromise, fake invoices, and online banking fraud. She emphasises how these threats can have devastating effects, including financial loss and reputation damage. Kimberly also highlights the importance of being proactive and discusses practical strategies to enhance your cyber resilience. Learn about the free Cyber Wardens initiative, a government-funded program designed to provide accessible and straightforward cybersecurity training for small businesses. Join us as we explore simple yet effective habits to protect your business online and ensure a safer digital environment. Whether you're a massage therapist, healthcare professional, or operate in any other small business capacity, this episode is packed with actionable advice to safeguard your business in today's digital landscape.

Join Elicia, James, and Christine as they explore the world of pricing for bodywork practitioners. Discover common mistakes therapists make when setting their rates and learn how to confidently charge what you're worth. From understanding inflation to pricing strategies that reflect your expertise, this episode is packed with practical advice to help you elevate your business and attract clients who value your unique services. Tune in to transform your pricing approach and grow your practice with confidence! Explore how pricing can impact your perceived expertise and how to avoid common pitfalls like discounting and commodity pricing. Learn how to create outcome-driven treatments that set you apart and attract clients willing to pay for your specialised skills.

Helen Dobra, a passionate Bowen therapist and visionary leader, shares her incredible journey from treating back pain to producing an award-winning documentary on Bowen therapy. In this episode, Helen discusses the transformative power of Bowen therapy, her mission to expand its reach globally, and the upcoming Bowen Global Summit 2025. Learn how Helen is revolutionising natural healing through education, collaboration, and abundance mindset, while championing the legacy of Tom Bowen and empowering practitioners worldwide. Discover the intersection of holistic health, filmmaking, and personal growth in this inspiring conversation about igniting change in the wellness industry. Links: https://www.naturaltherapyinstitute.com/ https://www.naturaltherapyinstitute.com/bowenglobalsummit https://www.naturaltherapyinstitute.com/thesetwohandslist https://www.instagram.com/bowentherapydocumentary/ https://www.facebook.com/bowentherapydocumentary  

Discover Mina Garas' incredible journey from humble beginnings as a door-to-door massage therapist to running a thriving clinic serving elite athletes. Learn how Mina scaled his business, overcame challenges, and built a dream team while staying true to his passion. Gain valuable insights on networking, continuous learning, and creating a values-driven practice that stands out in the competitive healthcare industry.

Join us for an inspiring conversation with Jo-anne Yeoman-Hare, a trailblazer in massage therapy and recipient of the prestigious lifetime member award. Joanne shares her remarkable journey as a woman who carved out a successful career in massage therapy during the late 70s and early 80s, a time when it wasn't common for women to have careers, especially in this field. Listen as Jo-anne recounts the numerous setbacks, discrimination, and challenges she faced, including being turned away simply for being a woman in a male-dominated industry. Her resilience and determination in the face of adversity have helped shape the respected profession we know today, particularly in the sphere of professional athletics. From her early days working in her father's chiropractic clinic to her groundbreaking work with elite sports teams, Joanne's story is a testament to perseverance and passion.  This episode is a must-listen for massage therapy professionals, aspiring practitioners, and anyone interested in the power of determination and resilience.

Dive into the world of specialised pregnancy massage with Catherine McInerney, founder and director of Pregnancy Massage Australia. With over 25 years of experience, Catherine shares her remarkable journey from Parisian beauty therapist to becoming a leading expert in perinatal care. In this enlightening episode, Catherine reveals how personal challenges, including a high-risk pregnancy and NICU experience, fueled her passion for supporting expectant mothers. Learn about the groundbreaking research conducted by Pregnancy Massage Australia and how it's shaping evidence-based practices in maternal healthcare. Catherine discusses the unique language of pregnancy massage, debunks common misconceptions, and highlights the evolving role of pregnancy massage in prenatal care. She also offers valuable advice for therapists looking to specialise in this rewarding field.

Kelly and Nicole, founders of Abundance Unlimited, own a thriving wellness business in Central Victoria. With over 40 years of combined experience in massage therapy and nursing, these innovative practitioners share their journey from running successful clinics to developing their own line of holistic products. Discover how Kelly and Nicole bridged the gap between healing and mindfulness, creating essential oil blends, bath salts, and their award-winning "Move Your Body" balm. Learn how their experience during Victoria's COVID-19 lockdowns inspired them to help clients overcome challenges and reframe mindsets. The sisters discuss their transition from hands-on therapy to product creation, the inspiration behind their unique essential oil blends, and the development process of their silver award-winning body balm. They also share insights on balancing clinic work with product innovation.

Dive into the inspiring journey of ClinicSense, from a simple email reminder system to a game-changing practice management solution for massage therapists and multidisciplinary clinics. In this episode, co-founder Daniel Ruscigno reveals the secrets behind their innovative features, including ultra-customisable treatment notes, automated marketing campaigns, and lightning-fast customer support. Learn how ClinicSense adapted during the COVID pandemic, empowering therapists to reopen safely and thrive. Whether you're a solo practitioner or managing a growing clinic, this episode is packed with invaluable insights on streamlining your practice, boosting efficiency, and taking your business to the next level.

Discover the transformative power of natural beauty techniques with Dr. Gloria Nguyen, a renowned Traditional Chinese Medicine practitioner and cosmetic acupuncturist. In this captivating episode, Dr. Nguyen shares her journey from focusing on pain management to becoming a leader in holistic beauty therapies. Learn how her unique blend of acupuncture, massage, and facial Gua Sha offers a natural alternative to injectables and fillers, promoting graceful ageing and overall well-being. Dr. Nguyen delves into the fascinating world of cosmetic acupuncture, explaining how it differs from traditional acupuncture by addressing both facial concerns and underlying health issues. She also reveals the secrets behind facial Gua Sha. Whether you're looking to expand your skills or someone interested in natural alternatives to conventional cosmetic procedures, this episode is packed with valuable information and inspiration. Find Gloria here: https://www.afrbeautypro.com.au/links https://acupuncturefacialrejuvenation.com.au/