Folding Towels Podcast

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Folding Towels Podcast Jackie and David bring their love of all things massage to an entertaining & educational new podcast.

David chats with Mandy Bartovolich, the first paediatric oncology massage therapist at Rainbow Babies and Children’s Hos...
11/03/2025

David chats with Mandy Bartovolich, the first paediatric oncology massage therapist at Rainbow Babies and Children’s Hospital in Cleveland, Ohio.
Mandy shares her incredible work with children and young adults undergoing cancer treatment and blood disorder management, and how as a massage therapist she works alongside doctors as an integral part of the health care team.
We explore the role of massage therapy in reducing pain, stress, and anxiety, the role of human touch and humanity and how care towards the child is combined with care for the adult too, who also benefits from compassionate touch.
Mandy has contributed to research with a paper published in 2023, and she shares how a child whom she cared for is now a doctor in New York, and is now embracing massage in her own hospital for paediatric care.
This episode is a heartfelt look into how human touch has a role in far more than just sore and tired muscles, but using multi-disciplinary bodywork principles can provide effective medical care in one of the most challenging environments.

Starting from scratch as a massage therapist can feel overwhelming, but what if you had a roadmap? In this episode, Davi...
11/03/2025

Starting from scratch as a massage therapist can feel overwhelming, but what if you had a roadmap?
In this episode, David shares the 10 proven strategies that helped him build a thriving client base—starting from a side hustle to a fully booked massage practice. From letterbox drops and blogging to networking, referral partners, and client follow-ups, these are the real, practical steps that made all the difference.
If you're struggling to attract more clients, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help you build your business the right way.
🎧 Listen now and take your massage practice to the next level!

In this episode of Folding Towels, Jackie and David sit down with Kylie Bradley, a massage therapist who made the bold m...
25/02/2025

In this episode of Folding Towels, Jackie and David sit down with Kylie Bradley, a massage therapist who made the bold move to niche her practice into lymphatic drainage.
Kylie shares her journey from a general remedial practice to a specialist clinic, the challenges and rewards of focusing on a niche, and how her business has flourished. She also discusses the impact of lymphatic work, post-surgical recovery, and the growing awareness around lipoedema and lymphedema.
If you’re considering niching your massage business but feel hesitant, this episode is packed with insights and inspiration!
🎧 Listen now.

In this episode of Folding Towels, Jackie and David tackle one of the biggest conversations happening in the massage ind...
18/02/2025

In this episode of Folding Towels, Jackie and David tackle one of the biggest conversations happening in the massage industry right now—how do we build trust, improve public perception, and enhance client safety without waiting for external regulation?
Following recent discussions about unethical behaviour in the profession, we explore practical steps every therapist can take to strengthen our industry. From building public trust, improving client safety, and using social media strategically, to leveraging association resources and advocating for professional awareness—we’re diving deep into what we can control.
If you’re a massage therapist wondering how to navigate these challenges, this episode is for you.
🎧 Listen now and join the conversation!

Sometimes massage therapists do bad things and sometimes those things are very bad. Massage Therapy is a beautiful profe...
11/02/2025

Sometimes massage therapists do bad things and sometimes those things are very bad. Massage Therapy is a beautiful profession, but we are not immune from people using their position of power and trust for the bad.
David and Jackie discuss the one thing we must hold as sacred in the massage industry: trust and safety. Following a recent high-profile case in South Australia, we discuss what went wrong, how therapists can better protect their clients, and what steps the industry can take to raise standards and improve public perception.
We break down the process for reporting unethical behaviour, the role of massage associations, and how therapists can empower clients to speak up. It’s an important conversation for every massage professional.

The new year is here, and it’s time to set yourself up for success! In this episode, Jackie and David guide you through ...
04/02/2025

The new year is here, and it’s time to set yourself up for success! In this episode, Jackie and David guide you through setting personal, professional, and business goals that will shape your year in a way that feels exciting and achievable.
In this episode, we dive into:
✅ Personal goals – What do you really want to do this year? Travel? More time with family? A fitness challenge?
✅ Professional goals – How can you grow in your career? Take on more responsibility, learn a new skill, or specialise in something new?
✅ Business planning – The one-page business plan that keeps things simple, clear, and actionable.
David and Jackie also share their own goals—including David’s plan to learn German for a bucket-list family trip, his upcoming 10km running race, and his specialist training in face, neck, and swallowing disorders.
Jackie reflects on reshaping her work-life balance, planning more family adventures, and shifting her niche towards lymphatic therapy.
Plus, they discuss how to break big goals into manageable steps, adjust when things change, and keep yourself motivated. And as a bonus, they’re giving away a free downloadable planning template to help you map out your perfect year.

📌 Download your free planners at ⁠https://foldingtowelspodcast.com.au/sign-up-for-freebies/⁠

Don't forget to head to social media and share your goals with us! We'd love to hear what you're planning!

Look out massage therapists!! New podcast episodes are almost here!2025 is going to be a great year! We have some fantas...
02/02/2025

Look out massage therapists!!
New podcast episodes are almost here!
2025 is going to be a great year! We have some fantastic interviews with industry leaders, association reps, amazing therapists from all over Australia and a few other places in the world, as well as your hilarious hosts, Jackie and David coming back to Wednesdays very soon.
Join us on Wednesday 5th February for a brand new, fun and insightful episode.
😊

Merry Christmas! 🎄🎅Thank you so much for being on this adventure with us in 2024. It's been a joy to bring you amazing i...
24/12/2024

Merry Christmas! 🎄🎅
Thank you so much for being on this adventure with us in 2024. It's been a joy to bring you amazing interviews and episodes. We hope you've found them informative and helpful, as well as a bit hilarious.

We'll be back late January after a couple of weeks relaxing with our families.
Enjoy your days off and don't forget to schedule yourself some well earned massages and rest.
See you in 2025.
Jackie & David
💆

Join Jackie and David as we let our hair down and blow off some steam about the chaos and joy of "this time of the year"...
18/12/2024

Join Jackie and David as we let our hair down and blow off some steam about the chaos and joy of "this time of the year", while looking back on an incredible 2024.

We've brought you 43 episodes including 14 amazing guests who have shared their stories, experience and passion for the industry with you. Did you have a favourite guest this year? We thought they were all amazing!

With heartfelt thanks to listeners across Australia and around the world, Jackie and David wrap up the year with gratitude and anticipation for what’s ahead.
Merry Christmas all! 🎄🎅

In this episode, we dive straight into the questions you’ve been asking. From the logistics of overseas training to the ...
12/12/2024

In this episode, we dive straight into the questions you’ve been asking.

From the logistics of overseas training to the nitty-gritty of taxation and bookkeeping, we tackle the practical challenges faced by massage therapists. We share plans for a new finance-focused series featuring experts, offering the tools you need to manage your business confidently.

We also discuss the industry-wide debate about whether there should be one governing body for massage therapists in Australia. With insights into current training standards and the challenges of uniting under a single voice, we explore what it could mean for the profession.

Ever wondered if association membership is worth it, especially for part-time mobile therapists? We break down the benefits, from networking and advocacy to access to resources and support. Plus, we unpack the pros and cons of massage subscription models and touch on the current chaos surrounding the NDIS and how it’s impacting therapists.

This episode blends advice, industry stories, and practical takeaways to help you make informed decisions. Have more questions? Let us know—we’re here to help!

In this episode of The Folding Towels Podcast, Jackie and David dive into the sometimes divisive topic of selling produc...
03/12/2024

In this episode of The Folding Towels Podcast, Jackie and David dive into the sometimes divisive topic of selling products in your massage clinic. Do you need to sell products? Not at all. But for therapists who choose to, selling the right products can boost income without the physical strain of more massage sessions.
They explore the importance of aligning products with your clinic’s values and niche, from spiky balls and TMJ tools to nurturing bath salts and festive aromatherapy. Learn how to avoid common pitfalls, like dead stock or feeling pressured to hard-sell, and hear tips on sourcing and pricing products effectively.
David also shares his lessons learned (50 heat bags, anyone?) and Jackie talks about her passion for magnesium products. Whether you're new to selling or looking to refine your approach, this episode offers practical advice to help you sell with confidence and integrity.
Tune in and discover if product sales are right for your clinic!

Feeling the weight of the year as December looms? You’re not alone! In this episode, we dive into the chaos, exhaustion,...
27/11/2024

Feeling the weight of the year as December looms? You’re not alone! In this episode, we dive into the chaos, exhaustion, and all-too-familiar "blah" vibes that hit hard at the end of the year. David and Jackie get real about navigating burnout, from managing financial pressures to dealing with compassion fatigue and those pesky energy vampires in your schedule.
We share tips on scheduling meaningful breaks, finding hobbies that spark joy, and sneaking in those little rewards that keep you going. Plus, we explore how to shake things up at work, refine your client list, and reconnect with your passion for what you do. Whether you’re struggling to keep up or just feeling a bit meh, this episode will remind you that it’s okay to prioritise yourself and have a little fun along the way.
So grab a cuppa (or a glass of wine—perhaps not if you're driving), settle in, and let’s tackle that end-of-year slump together!

In this enlightening episode of the Folding Towels Podcast, Jackie and David dive deep into the world of massage therapy...
20/11/2024

In this enlightening episode of the Folding Towels Podcast, Jackie and David dive deep into the world of massage therapy research with three inspiring guest speakers: Ronna Moore, Dr. Jan Douglass, and Dr. Sarah Fogarty. Together, they discuss how therapists can engage with research, the value of case studies, the limitations of traditional research paradigms, and the growing recognition of massage as a legitimate and evidence-based healthcare practice.

Whether you're a seasoned therapist or just starting out, this episode offers a wealth of knowledge to inspire your journey into the research world.

Ronna Moore
Ronna kicks off the conversation by highlighting the many ways therapists can engage with research without needing a formal academic pathway. She explains the value of small-scale research projects like case studies and quality improvement initiatives in shaping practice and contributing to the broader massage community. Rona introduces concepts such as grey literature, which includes blogs, trade journals, and conference posters, as accessible platforms for sharing insights. Her passion for fostering curiosity and critical thinking in therapists shines through, making her insights both practical and motivating.

Dr. Jan Douglass
Dr. Jan Douglass delves into the complexities and limitations of traditional research paradigms, particularly for chronic conditions and massage therapy. She discusses how the reliance on randomized controlled trials often overlooks the nuanced, individualized nature of therapeutic work. Drawing on her vast experience with lymphatic research and global health initiatives, Dr. Douglass explains the importance of exploring alternative research designs that capture real-world efficacy. Her call to embrace practice-based evidence and case studies is a compelling reminder that meaningful research is not one-size-fits-all.

Dr. Sarah Fogarty
Dr. Sarah Fogarty brings the episode to a close with her firsthand experiences as a massage researcher with over 40 publications. She shares her journey into research, highlighting the challenges and rewards of building a career in an underfunded and emerging field. Dr. Fogarty emphasizes the role of mixed-methods research in capturing both quantitative outcomes and the therapeutic relationship at the heart of massage. She also provides practical advice for therapists interested in research, from conducting case studies to navigating ethics and grant applications. Her passion for advancing massage therapy through evidence-based insights is both inspiring and actionable.

⭐ Episode 76 is now available. ⭐⭐ The How, Why and When of Discounting ⭐In this episode, David and Jackie dive into the...
13/11/2024

⭐ Episode 76 is now available. ⭐
⭐ The How, Why and When of Discounting ⭐

In this episode, David and Jackie dive into the complex topic of discounting for massage therapists, discussing when it makes sense and how to avoid undervaluing your services. They share practical strategies, like referral discounts, loyalty programs, and limited-time promotions, to attract clients without compromising your worth. David recounts real-life examples where thoughtful discounting helped his business, while Jackie emphasizes the importance of clear goals and strategy. They highlight the risks of platforms like Groupon, which can attract deal-chasing clients rather than loyal ones. By communicating openly with clients and using tools like email marketing, they suggest ways to build a strong client base without relying heavily on discounts. This episode offers valuable insights for therapists wanting to grow sustainably, focusing on strategies that enhance value over cutting costs.

⭐ Episode 75 is now available! ⭐⭐ Insights on Working Whilst Pregnant ⭐Jackie and David dive into the realities of worki...
05/11/2024

⭐ Episode 75 is now available! ⭐
⭐ Insights on Working Whilst Pregnant ⭐

Jackie and David dive into the realities of working as a massage therapist while pregnant. Drawing on Jackie’s personal experiences and David’s insights, they explore the unique challenges pregnancy brings to the profession, from managing morning sickness and adapting work routines to handling client communication and planning maternity leave.
Did you know that Jackie was still massaging even in the early stages of labour? With candid stories, practical advice, and a touch of humour, this episode sheds light on how to maintain well-being and professional standards through a life-changing time.
Whether you're self-employed or working within a clinic, tune in for thoughtful guidance and relatable insights that will help you navigate the path of balancing pregnancy and practice with confidence.
🤰

⭐ Episode 74 is now available! ⭐⭐ Certified Practitioner Program - Raising Standards in Massage Therapy ⭐David and Jacki...
31/10/2024

⭐ Episode 74 is now available! ⭐
⭐ Certified Practitioner Program - Raising Standards in Massage Therapy ⭐

David and Jackie sit down with Charlotte Keane and Paul Averill, non-executive directors of Massage Myotherapy Australia, to discuss the ⁠Certified Practitioner program⁠.
This certification, designed to ISO9001 standards, aims to bring consistency and professionalism to massage therapy in Australia by establishing a clear standard for qualified practitioners. In the wake of industry changes and public confusion surrounding massage services, Charlotte and Paul delve into the certification process, the benefits it brings to therapists and clients alike, and how it distinguishes trained professionals. Join us for an in-depth look at how certification can elevate the massage therapy industry and ensure public trust.

Find out more at the Massage & Myotherapy Australia website https://www.massagemyotherapy.com.au/Certification

⭐ Episode 73 is now available! ⭐⭐ Caring for the Whole Person: Ronna Moore on Palliative Massage ⭐Jackie and David recon...
23/10/2024

⭐ Episode 73 is now available! ⭐
⭐ Caring for the Whole Person: Ronna Moore on Palliative Massage ⭐

Jackie and David reconnect with Ronna Moore to explore the profound impact of palliative massage. Ronna shares her extensive experience working in palliative care, discussing the importance of addressing not just physical symptoms but also the emotional, psychological, and spiritual needs of clients. She delves into the misconceptions around end-of-life care, the unique challenges therapists face, and the essential role of massage in enhancing quality of life. This conversation touches on the delicate balance of providing compassionate care while managing the emotional demands of working with vulnerable clients. Ronna’s insights offer valuable guidance for massage therapists considering this path and anyone interested in the holistic approach to palliative care. Tune in for a thought-provoking discussion on the role of massage in supporting individuals and their carers during life’s most challenging moments.

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David getting his bobble head jiggle on at the photo shoot we did recently. Looking good Dave! 🕺

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