Massage Business Blueprint: Recent Episodes

Massage Business Blueprint

Allissa Haines and Michael Reynolds bring you the leading podcast discussing the business side of massage therapy and how to grow your practice.

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A listener asks, "How do I handle questions about my pregnancy?"

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Many of us are in the position of needing to refund money from gift certificates. So how do we navigate this process?

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What caught our attention this week? Possible round 3 of PPP Amy & Isabelle The Parks And Rec Special and Leslie Knope s Optimism Discussion Topic Meg Donnelly, LMT visits the podcast to talk about advocating efforts in a time of COVID-19 Meg's small business resources Find your Legislator Quick Tips Make something. Start to finish. [...]

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Discussion Topic Guest Til Luchau joins the podcast to talk about all the feels during the pandemic shut down, and how to help yourself get through. You can listen to Til Luchau & Whitney Lowe's podcast, The Thinking Practitioner, here or in all the usual podcast places. Use the code BLUEPRINT at checkout to get [...]

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What caught our attention this week? Ready. Set. Go. Small Businesses And The Race For Round 2 PPP Funds Our Pandemic Summer Discussion Topic How are we keeping structure in our lives during this crazy time? Quick Tips Shut your devices off. Get a proper accounting system, separate business/personal, and pay yourself properly when you [...]

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What caught our attention this week? Small business rescue loan program hits $349 billion limit and is now out of money Discussion Topic Simplify your menu, it's stressing Michael out. Quick Tips Start getting your financial processes organized (financial statements, bookkeeping). Also, consider opening a business account with a bank that has provided good service [...]

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(Heads up, Allissa drops an F-bomb in the Quick Tips segment) What caught our attention this week? CARES Act: Mortgage Forbearance Request Discussion Topic Should I Be Selling Gift Certificates Right Now? Quick Tip Small, incremental progress is good progress. Don t expect too much more from loud people in times of high stress. Sponsors Acuity [...]

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What caught our attention this week? All about the CARES Act And Allissa is reading the Magic Tree House series Discussion Topic Kim West Padgitt, President and Managing Principal of The Tax Advantage, LLC joins us to tackle the bits ands pieces of the CARES Act that can help massage businesses during this extended pandemic [...]

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What caught our attention this week? F.A.Q. on Stimulus Checks, Unemployment and the Coronavirus Bill Discussion Topic What's now and what's next? Find your legislator Jobs that are hiring right now Quick Tip Freeze Your Credit for Free in 45 Minutes to Reduce Your Risk of Identity Theft Sponsors Acuity Scheduling The Jojoba Company Yomassage

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NOTE: This episode was recorded 3/18. Things are changing fast and some comments may be out of date. What caught our attention this week? I mean, you know. Pandemic. Discussion Topic Triage for your business. Quick Tip Libby app Unfollow annoying people Sponsors Acuity Scheduling The Jojoba Company Yomassage

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Attorney, business consultant, and author Rachel Regenold joins the podcast to answer your legal questions! Rachel helps wellness business owners feel confident in starting and running their business. Her new book is Health and Wellness BIZ 101: Your Business Startup Guide, and you should check it out. Resources we mention: Yoga Alliance's Q & A page about music licensing [...]

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What caught our attention this week? StoryBrand Framework (and Hector Elizondo) Fairer Cents podcast Discussion Topic Does my massage business need a will? APA example Quick Tip 6 Cheap and Healthy Meals to Try This Week BudgetBytes Sponsors Acuity Scheduling The Jojoba Company Yomassage Transcript: Sponsor message This episode is sponsored by Yomassage. Yomassage combines [...]

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What caught our attention this week? Popular MLM businesses are leaving young women broke and friendless Maybe You Should Talk to Someone Discussion Topic What Reports Do You Keep for Your Massage Business? Quick Tip Register for the 2020 Blueprint Mastermind Summit Sponsors Acuity Scheduling The Jojoba Company Yomassage Transcript: Sponsor message This episode is [...]

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What caught our attention this week? Dr. Erin Macdonald Explains Transporters Allissa geeked out on state massage regulations and tax code Discussion Topic How to Build a Google-Friendly Resource Page for Your Massage Business Website Quick Tip Allissa started using Microsoft To Do. Sponsors Acuity Scheduling The Jojoba Company Yomassage Transcript: Sponsor message This episode [...]

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Banter catch up If you hate banter, skip to 9:30 minute mark. Discussion Topic Money Questions we can answer better. Quick Tip Block out time on your calendar for thinking and creating Sponsors Acuity Scheduling The Jojoba Company Yomassage Transcript: Sponsor message This episode is sponsored by Yomassage. Yomassage combines restorative stretching, massage, and mindfulness [...]

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Have you ever thought about starting a corporate wellness program in your massage program? Don't know where to start? Join us as we dig deep into the brain of Anastasia Yecke Gude, Founder & Managing Director of Healing Hands. Anastasia shares her journey, how she started a corporate wellness program, what mistakes she learned from along [...]

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What caught our attention this week? Do Not Disturb: How I Ditched My Phone and Unbroke My Brain What I read in 2019 (also, the Bakeshop Mysteries) Discussion Topic Client retention, a monologue by Allissa Quick Tip Stop talking. Even with clients who typically talk. See how the session changes. Microsoft Todo, the new Wunderlist Sponsors Acuity [...]

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Do you need a kick in the butt to help you get back in the social media game for your massage practice? Look no further. Katherine Parker from Yomassage joins us for this special expert interview episode where she shares her "recipe" for social media marketing success. These simple and accessible tactics will help you [...]

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What caught our attention this week? New podcast from Whitney Lowe and Til Luchau The Thinking Practitioner Why You Need to Make a ‘When I Die' File Before It's Too Late Discussion Topic Pay for things that work. Be frugal but don't be dumb. Quick Tip Be better at communication, especially when you are doing something for [...]

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What caught our attention this week? Chelsea handler has a podcast (and book) and it s probably not what you think. California has a new law for contract workers. But many businesses aren t ready for change What to do if you're a misclassified worker Discussion Topic What do you do when your business gets cut in [...]

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Our listener lives in a house divided and wants to know if Allissa and Michael are for or against pineapple on pizza. Transcript: Michael Reynolds Hey, everyone. Welcome to a Q&A episode of the Massage Business Blueprint podcast. I'm Michael Reynolds. Allissa Haines I'm Allissa Haines. MR We're your hosts. Welcome, welcome. Welcome to another [...]

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Friends, neighbors, Uncle Pete who had a paper route that one time in 1983… Everyone has advice for small business owners. How can you decide when it's relevant? Sponsored by: Acuity Scheduling & The Jojoba Company. Transcript: Sponsor message This episode is sponsored by The Jojoba Company. I believe that massage therapists should only be using the highest [...]

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It's great to be able to delegate out the tasks you hate to handle. It's also great to know exactly what's going on in your business all the time. How do we balance that? Sponsored by: Acuity Scheduling & The Jojoba Company. Transcript: Sponsor message This episode is sponsored by The Jojoba Company. I believe that massage therapists [...]

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What's an NPI number and do you need one? Learn more here and get one here. Sponsored by: Acuity Scheduling & The Jojoba Company. Transcript: Sponsor message This episode is sponsored by Hobacare Holiday Gift Packs. This year, Jojoba is making it easy for you to share the love of jojoba and take the hassle out of holiday [...]

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How can students (and all of us) learn to be less stiff and robotic when talking about massage? And how much personality can we show as professionals? We answer these great questions from a massage educator! Sponsored by Yomassage and Pure Pro Arnica Relief Lotion Transcript: Sponsor message This episode is sponsored by Yomassage. Registration for the first [...]

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Allissa's friend Karleen ran an easy email contest to name a new treatment. You'll never believe what happened next! Sponsored by: Acuity Scheduling & The Jojoba Company Holiday Packs. Transcript: Sponsor message This episode is sponsored by Acuity, our 2018 software of choice. Acuity Scheduling is your online assistant working 24/7 to fill your schedule. No more phone tag. [...]

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Does competition actually matter? What about when your area is saturated with MTs? Submit your questions at: https://www.massagebusinessblueprint.com/talk Sponsored by Yomassage and Pure Pro Arnica Relief Lotion Transcript: Sponsor message This episode is sponsored by Yomassage. Registration for the first Yomassage virtual training is now open, with classes beginning in November. The Yomassage therapist training is an intensive 25-hour [...]

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Getting calls from the wrong kinds of clients? We've got a few tips to fix that. Sponsored by: Acuity Scheduling & The Jojoba Company. Transcript: Sponsor message This episode is sponsored by The Jojoba Company. I believe that massage therapists should only be using the highest quality products because our clients deserve it and our own bodies deserve [...]

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What does a long, healthy massage career look like for a small massage business owners? We tackle options in this Q&A episode. Submit your questions at: https://www.massagebusinessblueprint.com/talk Sponsored by Yomassage andPure Pro Massage Products Peppermint Pedango Transcript: Sponsor message This episode is sponsored by Pure Pro Peppermint Pedango. I want to talk about feet. Your feet. Your client's [...]

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Feel icky about offering discounts for holiday sales? Here are some tips to rethink your approach to seasonal gift certificate sales. Sponsored by: Acuity Scheduling & The Jojoba Company. Store-bought costume we spoke of Transcript: Sponsor Message This episode is sponsored by Acuity, our 2018 software of choice. Acuity Scheduling is your online assistant working 24/7 to fill [...]

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A listener asks, "Are too many links in a blog post a bad thing?" Submit your questions at: https://www.massagebusinessblueprint.com/talk Sponsored by Yomassage and Pure Pro Massage Products Peppermint Pedango Transcript: Sponsor Message This episode is sponsored by Yomassage. Registration for the first Yomassage virtual training is now open, with classes beginning in November. The Yomassage therapist training is an [...]

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Business ownership is… tiring. Michael's got some ideas to keep you motivated and feeling good about what you do. Sponsored by: Acuity Scheduling & The Jojoba Company. Transcript: Sponsor message This episode is sponsored by The Jojoba Company. I believe that massage therapists should only be using the highest quality products because our clients deserve it and our [...]

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A listener asks, How should a new therapist set prices? We discuss the ins and outs of pricing when you re just starting out. Submit your questions at: https://www.massagebusinessblueprint.com/talk Sponsored by Yomassage and Pure Pro Massage Products Peppermint Pedango Transcript: Sponsor message This episode is sponsored by Pure Pro Peppermint Pedango. I want to talk about feet. Your feet. [...]

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Everybody wants a piece of the small business owner, huh? Come to this fundraiser, donate to this charity. We've got some tips to balance generosity with smart business sense. Related: When Should I Do Chair Massage and Community Events for Free? Sponsored by: Acuity Scheduling & The Jojoba Company. Transcript: Sponsor message This episode is sponsored by The Jojoba [...]

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Dual relationships are tricky beasts. And with a landlord? Could get even trickier. In this inaugural Q&A episode we work through the facets of our listener's question. Submit your questions at: https://www.massagebusinessblueprint.com/talk Sponsored by Yomassage and Pure Pro Massage Products Peppermint Pedango Transcript: Sponsor message This episode is sponsored by Pure Pro Peppermint Pedango. I want to talk [...]

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There is a lot of business advice out there and it can be overwhelming to try to soak it all in. How do we decide what advice to take and what to ignore? Sponsored by: Acuity Scheduling & The Jojoba Company. Transcript: Sponsor message This episode is sponsored by Acuity, our 2018 software of choice. Acuity Scheduling is [...]

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Burnt out on absorbing new business-y info? Bored at work in general? It happens! We've got a few tips for shaking out of a rut and loving your business again. Sponsored by: Acuity Scheduling & The Jojoba Company. Transcript: Sponsor message This episode is sponsored by The Jojoba Company. I believe that massage therapists should only be using [...]

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I'm Nobody! Who are you? Are you – Nobody – too? ~ Emily Dickinson Michael shares his thoughts on how our identity can be shaped by our business, for better and for worse. Sponsored by: Acuity Scheduling & The Jojoba Company. Transcript: Sponsor message This episode is sponsored by Acuity, our 2018 software of choice. Acuity Scheduling is [...]

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Thinking of giving advice to other massage therapists and business owners? Allissa and Michael share some tips and red flags for starting a consulting biz. Sponsored by: Acuity Scheduling & The Jojoba Company. Transcript: Sponsor message This episode is sponsored by The Jojoba Company. I believe that massage therapists should only be using the highest quality products because [...]

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Finding ways to differentiate your massage business can lead to more recognition in your community and more clients. In this episode we discuss "talk triggers" and how they can be used to get people talking about your business. Sponsored by: The Jojoba Company & Acuity. Transcript: Sponsor message This episode is sponsored by The Jojoba [...]

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Dealing with accounting (and accountants!) can often take a back seat to more exciting business things. But keeping our books and taxes in order is pretty helpful to everything else we want to do in business. So how can we be effective and efficient when working with our accountant? Resources referenced: 3 Red Flags I [...]

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We re half way through the year! And it s a good time assess your financial status. We ve got a few ideas to measure and update your financial progress in 2019. Sponsored by: The Jojoba Company & Yomassage. Transcript: Sponsor message This episode is sponsored by The Jojoba Company. I believe that massage therapists should only be [...]

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There is more than one reason to consider re-branding your massage business. It can feel overwhelming. We talk through what to think about and how to implement a re-brand. Sponsored by: The Jojoba Company & Yomassage. Transcript: Sponsor message This episode is sponsored by The Jojoba Company. I believe that massage therapists should only be [...]

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Dual relationships are complicated in the best of circumstances. We talk through the angles of clients becoming business connections and how to handle running into your clients at the gym. And more. Semi-related resources: Should I Massage My Friends and Family? Annie Lacroix, Brainy Boss Kelly Bowers, The Accidental Business Owner Sponsored by: Yomassage & The Jojoba Company. Transcript: [...]

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When a business is taking off fast, you've got to think about workload and boundaries! We answer this great member question about mindful growth in a new business. Sponsored by: Acuity & The Jojoba Company. (Take note of the special June 2019 offer with Jojoba! 20% off orders of $35 or more through June with this link!) Transcript: [...]

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We revisit the age-old question: how do I raise my prices? From the math to the psychology to the communication, we walk you through the details on how to continue to charge what you're worth and how to keep your practice growing and thriving. Sponsored by: Acuity & The Jojoba Company. Resources Deciding Prices for Your Massage Practice [...]

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Guest David Lobenstine returns to talk about using a sliding scale fee schedule in his massage practice. David is a massage therapist in Manhattan and an educator everywhere. His new online course Pour Don t Push just launched, check it out here. (affiliate link) You can hear David's first appearance on our podcast in episode 164, [...]

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Do you struggle with setting goals in your massage business? Do big scary targets make you sweat? Do you ever think to yourself: "there's got to be a better way!" Well, you're in luck. There is. Sponsored by: Acuity & The Jojoba Company. Transcript: Sponsor message This episode is sponsored by Acuity, our 2018 software [...]

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We weigh the pros and cons of offering packages and share a brilliant tip from a Premium Member. Sponsored by: Acuity and The Jojoba Company. Transcript: Sponsor message This episode is sponsored by The Jojoba Company. I believe that massage therapists should only be using the highest quality products because our clients deserve it and our own bodies [...]

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Katherine Parker of Yomassage visits the podcast to talk about effective use of Facebook Ads for massage therapists. See ABMP's Yomassage feature here. See Katherine's companion blog post with video here. Sponsored by Yomassage . Find a Yomassage Therapist Training near you and be a part of the next big thing. Use the code BLUEPRINT for $50 [...]

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Is your website secure? Maybe you need an SSL certificate. Let's talk about why. Sponsored by: Acuity and The Jojoba Company. Transcript: Sponsor message This episode is sponsored by Acuity, our 2018 software of choice. Acuity scheduling is your online assistant working 24/7 to fill your schedule. No more phone tag. Clients can quickly view [...]

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Should your massage practice website be accessible to people with disabilities? Spoiler alert: yes. Sponsored by: The Jojoba Company & Acuity Transcript: Sponsor message This episode is sponsored by The Jojoba Company. I believe that massage therapists should only be using the highest quality products because our clients deserve it and our own bodies deserve [...]

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Want to know the one indicator of a successful massage business and the one secret for success? Listen in! Sponsored by The Jojoba Company & Acuity Resources: How to get new massage clients Transcript: Sponsor message This episode is sponsored by Acuity, our 2018 software of choice. Acuity scheduling is your online assistant working 24/7 to fill your [...]

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Allissa shares a new idea for customizing your email reminders and asks for your ideas to take it further. Sponsored by The Jojoba Company & Acuity Transcript: Sponsor message This episode is sponsored by Acuity, our 2018 software of choice. Acuity scheduling is your online assistant working 24/7 to fill your schedule. No more phone tag. Clients can [...]

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Allissa & Michael talk with attendees of the Massage Business Blueprint Mastermind Summit about their epiphanies and takeaways from the event! Sponsored by The Jojoba Company & Acuity Transcript: Sponsor message This episode is sponsored by Acuity, our 2018 software of choice. Acuity scheduling is your online assistant working 24/7 to fill your schedule. No more phone tag; [...]

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We follow up with Allissa’s marketing plan efforts and she how she failed, succeeded, and why! Catch up here with E186: That Time Allissa Needed a Marketing Plan Sponsored by The Jojoba Company & ABMP Transcript: Sponsor message This episode is sponsored by ABMP. ABMP goes above and beyond great liability insurance to make it easier for you [...]

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Well, of all the unanswerable questions in all the world, you had to ask this one? You did, and we love it. Michael and Allissa talk through the factors that define success and how to parse through what matters to you. Sponsored by The Jojoba Company & ABMP Transcript: Sponsor message This episode is sponsored by The Jojoba [...]

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Cancelling a day of clients is so hard. Allissa and Michael discuss how and when you need to cancel clients for your own health reasons. Resources: How to handle your schedule when you are sick How long are you contagious? WebMD, HealthLine, MedicineNet Sponsored by The Jojoba Company & ABMP Transcript: Sponsor message This episode is sponsored by [...]

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There’s a limit to some kinds of retirement accounts…but what if you want to save even more? Michael walks us through the options for maximum retirement potential. Sponsored by The Jojoba Company & ABMP Transcript: Sponsor message This episode is sponsored by The Jojoba Company. I firmly believe that massage therapists should only be using the highest [...]

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Michael and Allissa share their annual 3 Words tradition to start off 2019 right. Sponsored by The Jojoba Company Transcript: Sponsor message This episode is sponsored by The Jojoba Company. I firmly believe that massage therapists should only be using the highest quality products, because our clients deserve it, and our own bodies deserve it. I’ve [...]

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What’s the best time to advertise gift certificates sales? What do I do if a colleague steals my website copy? Allissa and Michael answer these questions and more in this Lightning Round Episode! Sponsored by The Jojoba Company & Acuity Transcript: Sponsor message This episode is sponsored by Acuity, our 2018 software of choice. Acuity scheduling is your [...]

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Ever feel like your decision-making is digging you into a hole? Deeper and deeper and deeper… In this episode Michael and Allissa discuss recognizing and stopping the sunk-cost pattern and making better choices in your business (and life). Sponsored by The Jojoba Company & Acuity Transcript: Sponsor message This episode is sponsored by Acuity, our 2018 software of [...]

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What is your exit plan? Can you envision a day when you want to step away from your massage practice? Or perhaps you are moving and looking for a better option than just shutting down your business. Is selling a viable option? Go deep into the intricacies of selling your massage practice with expert business [...]

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No, you don’t have to complete a vision board and overhaul your whole business. In this episode Allissa gives 3 easy ideas to get you thinking about a successful 2019. Sponsored by The Jojoba Company & Acuity Transcript: Sponsor message This episode is sponsored by The Jojoba Company. I firmly believe that massage therapists should only be using [...]

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What happens when a potential client googles your name or your business name? Does it matter? Michael and Allissa talk through the aspects of a Virtual First Impression. Sponsored by The Jojoba Company & Acuity Transcript: Sponsor message This episode is sponsored by Acuity, our 2018 software of choice. Acuity scheduling is your online assistant working 24/7 to [...]

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Allissa shares a TON of ways to generate blog posts for your massage practice website. This will get you ready to finally start that blog you promised yourself you’d start next year. You’re welcome! Sponsored by Center for Barefoot Massage and The Jojoba Company. Transcript: Sponsor message This episode is sponsored by the Center for [...]

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There are lots of moving parts in a massage business, and that becomes more apparent when you think about moving to another city. We think through the steps of closing and re-opening in a new area. Sponsored by The Jojoba Company & The Center for Barefoot Massage Transcript: Sponsor message This episode is sponsored by The Jojoba Company. [...]

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Crystal Williams joins the podcast to talk us through her structured process for effective (and less stressful) networking. Crystal is a massage therapist with a busy practice in Minneapolis, Minnesota specializing in therapeutic massage for shoulder issues including rotator cuff tears, impingement, bursitis and frozen shoulder. Crystal believes that each of us have a unique purpose [...]

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Think you need to be a vivacious social butterfly to be a great massage business owner? Nopey nope nope! We share a few great thoughts on introverts as massage therapists and marketers. Resource we mention: Author Susan Cain Sponsored by The Jojoba Company & The Center for Barefoot Massage Transcript: Sponsor message This episode is sponsored by the [...]

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Ruth Werner and Whitney Lowe join the podcast to tell us how they conquer productivity issues and obstacles in their work. Ruth Werner is an author, educator, and artist. She writes a regular column in Massage & Bodywork Magazine, is working on the 7th edition of A Massage Therapist s Guide to Pathology, and just launched [...]

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Sure, you run a massage business. But…why? Being clear on your mission, about what your business does for others as well as what it does for you, can make decisions so much easier. Sponsored by The Jojoba Company & The Center for Barefoot Massage Halloween costumes as promised: Transcript: Sponsor message This episode is sponsored by [...]

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Have you noticed your numbers falling? Or maybe you just need a solid kick in the pants to actively recruit new clients? Marketing plans to the rescue! Here’s a quick primer on what a marketing plan is and how it can help you (with an example from Allissa’s practice!) Sponsored by The Jojoba Company & [...]

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Most discussions we see about Liability insurance focus on the annual price. But that is the WORST metric for choosing insurance. It’s time to learn the difference between Occurrence and Claims-Made policies, darn it. I promise, you’ll thank us later. Resources: Choosing Liability Insurance for your Massage Business E68: Common Questions About Massage Liability Insurance [...]

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What’s the difference between all the money people? And which do you need? We lay out the details. Resources we used here and here. Sponsored by: Acuity and GiftUp! Transcript: Sponsor message This episode is sponsored by Acuity, our 2018 software of choice. Acuity scheduling is your online assistant working 24/7 to fill your schedule. [...]

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Sara Kotila returns to tell us about her system for selling retail (and training her staff to sell, too) but keeping it real and authentic and not at all smarmy. You can learn more about Sara at her website kneadtorunmassage.com. This episode is sponsored exclusively by PurePro, featuring their product packs for resale. Learn more [...]

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You responded with tips and scripts about Allissa’s networking experience and how to improve and handle awkward networking situations. Stuff we mentioned: Our networking audio course Last Seen podcast So Money podcast Bizchix podcast Sponsored by: Acuity and GiftUp! Transcript: Sponsor message This episode is sponsored by Acuity, our 2018 software of choice. Acuity scheduling is [...]

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Worried your boss will be sad if you quit? Tired of coming in because your client always has a spasm on your day off? Let’s talk about what you do and don’t owe the people around you. Resource we mention: usa.gov/register-to-vote Sponsored by: Gift Up! and The Jojoba Company. Transcript: Sponsor message This episode is sponsored by giftUP. giftUP [...]

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Allissa went to a networking event and has a story to tell. Sponsored by: Gift Up! and The Jojoba Company. Resources we mention: Babies as compared to burritos & Allissa’s new grandson. Transcript: Sponsor message This episode is sponsored by giftUP. giftUP allows you to sell your own digital gift cards and gift certificates on your website with [...]

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We think the title says it all here. Enjoy! Sponsored by: Gift Up! and The Jojoba Company. Transcript: Sponsor message This episode is sponsored by giftUP. giftUP allows you to sell your own digital gift cards and gift certificates on your website with no setup fee and no monthly fee. Built with massage therapists in mind, giftUP is [...]

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We hosted our own massage stock photo shoot and learned so much! Here are our suggestions and tips for your own photographic extravaganza! Sponsored by: Gift Up! and The Jojoba Company. Here is the terrible image of the top on my nose. You are welcome. Transcript: Sponsor message This episode is sponsored by The Jojoba Company. I [...]

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Got another massage therapist stealing your ideas and harshing your mellow? Here’s how to deal. Sponsored by: Gift Up! and The Jojoba Company. Transcript: Sponsor message This episode is sponsored by The Jojoba Company. I firmly believe that massage therapists should only be using the highest quality products, because our clients deserve it, and our own bodies deserve [...]

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We. Love. Massage students! So much potential and excitement for massage! We had a great time talking to students at the World Massage Festival and were inspired to share our favorite tips for budding MTs. This episode is exclusively sponsored by ABMP. Transcript: Sponsor message This episode is sponsored by ABMP, Associated Bodywork and Massage [...]

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Michael and Allissa spent a few days giving business consultations to attendees at the World Massage Festival. Here are the most common questions and how we answered! This episode is exclusively sponsored by ABMP. Transcript: Sponsor message This episode is sponsored by ABMP, Associated Bodywork and Massage Professionals. Supporting the largest community in massage and [...]

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Stop making stuff harder for yourself. Just stop. Michael and Allissa share their favorite tips for efficiency with techy tasks. Sponsored by: Gift Up! and The Jojoba Company. Transcript: Sponsor message This episode is sponsored by giftUP. giftUP allows you to sell your own digital gift cards and gift certificates on your website with no setup fee and [...]

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Michael and Allissa answer a brilliant reader question from a massage therapist just starting out. Sponsored by: Gift Up! and The Jojoba Company. Transcript: Sponsor message This episode is sponsored by The Jojoba Company. I firmly believe that massage therapists should only be using the highest quality products because our clients deserve it, and our own bodies deserve [...]

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Allissa tackles a reader question about keeping the work interesting for frequent and long term clients. Sponsored by: Gift Up! and The Jojoba Company. Transcript: Sponsor message This episode is sponsored by The Jojoba Company. I firmly believe that massage therapists should only be using the highest quality products, because our clients deserve it, and our [...]

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Allissa talks to Tracy Walton about her path in massage and the versatility and application of oncology massage therapy training and what’s in it for the massage therapist, too. Spoiler alert: it’s not just about oncology. You can learn more about Tracy Walton and her courses at tracywalton.com. This episode is sponsored by PurePro Massage [...]

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We are increasingly dependent on technology to operate our businesses and our lives. While this can be a positive thing, it can also increase the risk that our personal information will be compromised. If you would like to tighten up your online security and protect your personal information, this is the episode for you. Sponsored [...]

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Overpowering fabric softener? Door slammer? Pen-stealer? We talk about how to be a good officemate and how to help an office full of practitioners run with minimal conflict. Sponsored by: Artichoke and The Jojoba Company. Transcript: Sponsor message This episode is sponsored by Artichoke, the simplest way to manage your business of one or your team of up [...]

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Michael and Allissa discuss the downsides of the IC arrangement and rant a little. Resources IRS info MA court case Kid living his best life Sponsored by The Jojoba Company. Transcript: Sponsor message This episode is sponsored by The Jojoba Company. I firmly believe that massage therapists should only be using the highest quality products, because [...]

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We asked our community of massage therapists to share with us the worst business advice advice they’ve ever received. And boy did they deliver! Sponsored by: Artichoke and The Jojoba Company. Transcript: Sponsor message This episode is sponsored by Artichoke, the simplest way to manage your business of one or your team of up to [...]

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It’s summertime! Get your podcast listening on with our current favorites! Michael’s picks: Dave Ramsey Planet Money Allissa’s picks: How s the pressure? Still Processing ADHD Rewired The West Wing Weekly My Dad Wrote a Porno Babysitters Club Club This episode sponsored by Artichoke The Jojoba Company Transcript: Sponsor message This episode is sponsored by [...]

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Allissa rants about practitioners and credibility. And online reputations that are a hot mess. Resources: Wix, Weebly, & WordPress: Options for Your Massage Business Website Massage Online Scheduling Systems: A Comparison and Review Mentioned: This great kid’s book about Jim Henson Sponsored by The Jojoba Company Transcript: Sponsor message This episode is sponsored by The Jojoba [...]

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Guest David Lobenstine joins Allissa to talk about his path in massage and how to get present (and maybe even stay present) in a massage. Also, we breathe. It’s pretty great. Learn more about David at www.bodybrainbreath.com. This episode is sponsored by Pure Pro Massage Products. Transcript: Sponsor message This episode is sponsored by Pure Pro massage [...]

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General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) is here! Run for the hills! Not quite. While GDPR is causing a few headaches for businesses, it also has some upsides. So what do massage therapists need to know? Resources referenced in this episode: How to write a GDPR privacy notice with documentation template example GDPR Privacy Policy [...]

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We’ve been talking about podcasting and niching in the past (at different times) and how powerful these approaches can be toward differentiating your practice. But how about together? Mind blown! We’re going to share three examples of massage therapists who are niching and podcasting and how it’s benefiting their practices. Massage therapists showcased in this [...]

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Financial jargon can be frustrating and can make you feel dumb when you’re talking with your accountant or CPA. Let’s go over some basic business finance terms and what they mean. Want even more? Check out this list and this list. Sponsored by: The Jojoba Company and 99designs. Transcript: Sponsor message This episode is sponsored [...]

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Spring cleaning for your Facebook account? Yes, please! Resource: How to adjust privacy setting for old Facebook posts. Sponsored by Artichoke and The Jojoba Company. Transcript: Sponsor message This episode is sponsored by Artichoke, the simplest way to manage your business of one or your team of up to 10 people. Whether you’re looking for [...]

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The one in which we share all (well maybe not all) of the embarrassing ways we’ve screwed up running this business over the past 3 years. You’re welcome! Sponsored by: The Jojoba Company and Artichoke. Transcript: Sponsor message This episode is sponsored by The Jojoba Company. I firmly believe that massage therapists should only be [...]

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Oh hey! Is it time to spiff up that tired old logo that your friend’s cousin made for you in 2002? Or the one you put together with clip art back in your massage school business class? Michael and Allissa share some tips on creating a logo that doesn’t suck. Resources we mention: What Makes [...]

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Diana Thompson joins the podcast to talk about her career, working with clients and pain, and how massage therapists can bring massage therapy into integrative healthcare. Resources mentioned: Massage Therapy Foundation Research tools & meta-analysis This episode is sponsored by: Hands Heal Electronic Health Records System Transcript: Sponsor message This episode is sponsored by Hands [...]

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Referrals can be tricky. What if we refer a client to a trusted practitioner and their experience is awful? Are we liable? We discuss the ins and outs of referring and how to handle a resulting awkward situation. This episode is sponsored by: Artichoke The Jojoba Company Transcript: Sponsor message This episode is sponsored by [...]

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Taglines, service descriptions, all the marketing ‘stuff’ that comes along with promoting a massage business. So. Many. Decisions. In this episode, we talk about how choosing a niche makes these decisions a breeze! This episode is sponsored by: The Jojoba Company Transcript: Sponsor message This episode is sponsored by The Jojoba Company. I firmly believe [...]

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Business entity considerations come up a lot in our community of massage therapists and many are wondering of they should operate the business as an LLC rather than sole proprietorship. We dig deep into this question with Jeff Heinzmann, a seasoned business attorney. Jeff shares insights on that advantages and protections offered by an LLC, [...]

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The very idea of choosing a specialty terrifies and causes instant defiance in many (most?) business owners. And yet, it can be THE key to building a full, successful massage business. We take you through the 3 approaches to choosing a niche. Resources mentioned: Putting Your Foot Down to Nail Your Niche How Niche Marketing [...]

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What to do when clients don’t give feedback or when they give it to people other than you? We discuss and give a few ideas. This episode is sponsored by: Center for Barefoot Massage The Jojoba Company Transcript: Sponsor message This episode is sponsored by the Center for Barefoot Massage. The Center for Barefoot Massage [...]

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Adrienne Asta joins Allissa to talk about what it takes to be a massage instructor and how to get started on that path. The business of massage education is accelerating at lightning speed. The need for qualified massage educators is greater than ever. Typically, accreditation standards have a requirement for years of practice but the [...]

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What’s bugging you? Think about that for a minute. Now get over it. In this episode, Allissa talks about the absurd stuff that she used to care about and why she stopped. This episode is sponsored by: Center for Barefoot Massage PurePro Massage Products Transcript: Sponsor message This episode is sponsored by the Center for [...]

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Setting goals, even arbitrary ones, can be a useful tool to build motivation in your massage business. This episode is sponsored by: Center for Barefoot Massage PurePro Massage Products Transcript: Sponsor message This episode is sponsored by the Center for Barefoot Massage. The Center for Barefoot Massage offers Ashiatsu continuing education classes across the country. [...]

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Selling gift certificates online and in person can be a great way to recruit new clients and make gift-giving convenient for your current clients. Navigating the state and legal requirements for gift certificate sales can be tricky. Allissa lays out some not-legal-advice tips and gives a handful of resources to consult. This episode is sponsored [...]

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Founders of the Barefoot Center for Massage, Jeni Spring and Mary Claire Fredette, join Allissa to talk about the evolution of their careers and how to get the most out of Continuing Education. This episode is sponsored by the Barefoot Center for Massage, go here to enter to win a free day of class and [...]

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Michael gets a little obsessed with podcasting in this, er podcast episode. We lay out everything you need to know to start a successful podcast for your massage business, including why you might want to do it in the first place. This episode is sponsored by: Mother Earth Pillows Center for Barefoot Massage Resources referenced [...]

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Comments? No comment? How do I deal with the trolls and the haters? We discuss the conundrum of comments on your massage business blog. Rianne’s podcast & her website. Allissa’s convection oven This episode is sponsored by: Mother Earth Pillows Center for Barefoot Massage Transcript: Sponsor message This episode is sponsored by Mother Earth pillows. Mother [...]

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Stacey Schultz join us to talk about providing massage in various skilled nursing facilities and what makes that different from hospital settings. Stacey runs a massage practice in Rochester, MN with advanced training in Manual Lymph Drainage, Oncology massage, hospital/medical massage and care-giving at the end of life as well as Rosen Method Bodywork. You [...]

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What’s a better way to start up a massage practice: fixed/flat rent or paying an hourly rental? We examine the options and the factors to consider. This episode is sponsored by: Center for Barefoot Massage Mother Earth Pillows Transcript: Sponsor message This episode is sponsored by the Center for Barefoot Massage. The Center for Barefoot [...]

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Facebook is constantly evolving and the newest updates may change your marketing techniques. Michael walks us through the madness. This episode is sponsored by: Center for Barefoot Massage Mother Earth Pillows Transcript: Sponsor message This episode is sponsored by ABMP, Associated Bodywork and Massage Professionals. Supporting the largest community in massage and bodywork, ABMP goes [...]

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Ahhh… pricing. Always a dicey topic. We discuss the factors to consider, especially for newer therapists. Come along! Check out Deciding Prices for Your Massage Practice, too. This episode is sponsored by: Artichoke ABMP Transcript: Sponsor message This episode is sponsored by Artichoke, the simplest way to manage your business of one or your team [...]

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Feel like your hands-on skills are just ‘okay’ right now? Or lacking a little confidence? Take heart, you can still be really successful. This episode is sponsored by: Artichoke ABMP Transcript: Sponsor message This episode is sponsored by Artichoke, the simplest way to manage your business of one or your team of up to 10 [...]

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Business decision are often fraught with emotion, here are some questions to ask yourself, to help you make solid decisions (and still sleep at night). This episode sponsored by: ABMP SOAPVault Transcript: Sponsor message This episode is sponsored by ABMP, Associated Bodywork and Massage Professionals. Supporting the largest community in massage and bodywork, ABMP goes [...]

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Barry Hatfield joins Allissa to talk about where his massage practice is going and how he came to make his website a valuable, personable tool for recruiting new clients. Barry is a massage therapist and business owner in Hudson, Ohio. You can learn more about him and find all his blog posts here. This episode [...]

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Moving from employment to self- employment can be jarring, and being in charge of our own schedules can be a curse as well as a blessing. Here’s tip to help you navigate the self-discipline required to make it work. This episode is sponsored by: SOAP Vault ABMP Transcript: Sponsor message This episode is sponsored by SOAP [...]

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What do we do with the bunches of short questions we get that can’t fill a whole episode? Lightning round! This episode is sponsored by: SOAP Vault ABMP Transcript: Sponsor message This episode is sponsored by SOAP Vault. Managing your practice can be time consuming. SOAP Vault truly helps you complete your SOAP notes in [...]

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Michael and Allissa share their annual 3 Words tradition to start off the new year. This episode is sponsored by: ABMP Artichoke Transcript: Sponsor message This episode is sponsored by ABMP, Associated Bodywork and Massage Professionals. Supporting the largest community in massage and bodywork, ABMP goes above and beyond great liability insurance to make it easier for [...]

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Guest Crystal Williams joins us to talk about how she encourages her multi-practitioner team to be referral sources for each other so each therapist can have a long, happy career doing the work they most enjoy. Crystal is a massage therapist and corrective exercise specialist. She graduated from Minnesota School of Business with a Diploma [...]

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Michael shares his favorite tips for improving your email communications so you look like a business superstar. Also, Allissa makes an error: Dirty Dancing was filmed in the Catskills. Not the Adirondacks. This episode is sponsored by: ABMP The Jojoba Company Transcript: Sponsor message This episode is sponsored by ABMP, Associated Bodywork and Massage Professionals. [...]

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In Episode 66: How to Always Have Content for Your Social Media, Allissa laid out a plan to post to her massage practice’s social media every day. In this episode, she tells us how it went and shares some ideas for the coming year. Here’s the book Allissa used for 2017. This episode is sponsored by: [...]

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Guest Marcy Basil joins us to talk about her career path in massage and to give some tips for working with larger massage clients. Marcy is a massage therapist and educator in Houston, Texas. You can learn more about her here. This episode is sponsored by PurePro Massage Products Peppermint Pedango foot cream. Gently calm [...]

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A reader asked, “What are some techniques and or verbiage to use to help someone to let go and relax, besides telling them to relax all the time?” We answered! Massage and Bodywork Magazine article here This episode is sponsored by: ABMP The Jojoba Company Transcript: Sponsor message This episode is sponsored by The Jojoba [...]

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Annie LaCroix tells us all about her career in massage and talks us through her favorite tips to help students get the most of of massage school. (Pssst- turns out these tips are great even if you’re well out of school.) Things we talked about: A Little Life, by Hanya Yanagihara Special thanks to our [...]

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When you’re a business owner, taking a vacation is a double whammy of actual vacation expenses AND loss of pay. Here’s a quick tip to help plan ahead and make an actual vacation happen. See our related post How to Give Yourself Vacation Pay. This episode is sponsored by: ABMP The Jojoba Company Transcript: Sponsor [...]

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A great bio will accurately express your work, capture the interest of your ideal client, make you sound awesome. And it’s really not that hard to do! More on Writing a Bio to Use in Your Massage Business This episode is sponsored by: The Jojoba Company Center for Barefoot Massage Transcript: Sponsor message This episode is sponsored by the [...]

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Affectionately subtitled, “How to get out of your own way,” Allissa gives a few tips for calming the nerves and just. doing. massage. This episode is sponsored by: ABMP The Jojoba Company

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This candid, heartfelt interview with Lauren Cates will leave you well, it ll leave you slightly changed. For reals. We cover what brought Lauren to massage, their expansive career so far, and end with some very important, tangible guidance for those seeking more oncology massage clients. Lauren Cates, CMT, S4OM is the Executive Director of Healwell and [...]

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Many of us get stuck in the beginning phases of just learning about business and marketing practices. In this episode, Allissa gives 4 reality slaps andgt; gentle tips, for getting to the doing phase. This episode is sponsored by: The Jojoba Company Center for Barefoot Massage Transcript: MR Hey, everyone. Welcome to the Massage Business Blueprint [...]

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Andrea Lipomi joins us for a deep dive into how her career evolved and how learning the ins and outs of hospitality helped her craft a successful business. Andrea is a massage therapist, esthetician, nail tech and educator from Las Vegas, Nevada. She runs the show at Feetish Spa Parlor and Confident Massage, and would love to be [...]

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A reader asked, “How do I stay disciplined organized to work on my biz when I have no clients scheduled (and live near a beautiful beach)? So we shared our favorite tips and a no-BS reality check. Resources: A bunch of our productivity posts! This episode is sponsored by: The Jojoba Company Center for Barefoot Massage

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Allissa shares some low-stress ways to celebrate the holidays in your massage business. Or not. Resources: Episode 9: How Do I Stop Selling My Soul With Holiday Discounts? Sponsors: GiftUp! Jojoba

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In honor of Allissa paying off her massage school debt (YIPEEEEE!!!) we unpack the ins and outs of the debt snowball and how it works. Resources referenced: Allissa’s Happy Dance How the Debt Snowball Method Works (from Dave Ramsey) Undebt.it A bunch of our money posts Sponsors: Jojoba GiftUp! Transcript: Michael Reynolds Hey, everyone. Welcome [...]

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Guest Jen Studebaker joins us to talk about her recent Open House event: what she did, what went well and what she would change for the next one! This episode is sponsored by: The Jojoba Company GiftUp!

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We’ve seen a lot of discussion over the years about the ebbs and flows of cash flow in your massage business. It’s a reality that almost all of us face at one time or another. So what do we do when cash flow sucks and stress is high? This episode is sponsored by: GiftUp! The [...]

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How do caregivers like us keep it together, and keep doing our job, when everything seems so tough? Resources we mention: How to Stay Sane on Facebook and Run Your Massage Business at the Same Time Therapists Spill: 14 Ways to Get Through Tough Times Still Processing Podcast Can We Just, Like, Get Over the [...]

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How we talk about bodies sets the stage for how a client feels on the table and off. Therapist and educator Jenn Durkin joins us for a chat about how to not accidentally tell someone they are broken and at fault for their own pain. (And how to choose words that empower our clients!) Jenn [...]

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What better time than episode 115 to finally introduce ourselves properly? Here are the resources we mention! Rob Hatch Laurie Ruettimann Chris Brogan Chris Penn Investopedia Dave Ramsey This episode is sponsored by: The Jojoba Company Center for Barefoot Massage

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One of our members is thinking of going back to school to get a business degree. Will this help her run a better massage practice? This episode is sponsored by: The Jojoba Company Center for Barefoot Massage

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Landlords, neighbors, colleagues, oh my! Initiating a potential dispute is tough, but you need to speak up for yourself! Here are some tips on dealing with people relating to your massage business. This episode is sponsored by: The Jojoba Company Center for Barefoot Massage

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There are a variety of reasons we may not ‘connect’ with a client. Here’s how to handle the sticky situations so the client gets the best care and you can breathe a sigh of relief. This episode is sponsored by: The Jojoba Company Center for Barefoot Massage

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Guest Andrea Lipomi joins us to talk about options for expanding your services, career, and profitability! Andrea is a massage therapist, esthetician, nail tech and educator from Las Vegas, Nevada. She runs the show at Feetish Spa Parlor and Confident Massage, and would love to be friends with you on Facebook.

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We follow up with Ariana LaCour to find out how her Groupon campaign from earlier this year turned out. Spoiler alert: There were ups, there were downs. Need to catch up? You can listen to Episode 84: Using Groupon to Market Your Massage Practice right here.

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Our friend/mentor/co-teacher Greg Hurd FINALLY makes an appearance on the podcast! Greg and Allissa discuss the career-longevity of massage therapists. The truth, the myths, and ideas for keeping your career long and healthy. Resources we mentioned: David Lobenstein’s Pour, Don’t Push techniques Michael Young’s Repetitive Use Injury Therapy Center for Barefoot Massage Tracy Walton Massage [...]

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Our special guest Tracy Bradley walks us through the pros, cons and techniques of adding simple spa treatments to your massage services, even in a dry room. You can learn more about the products Tracy uses here.

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We all go through personal stuff. We discuss how to manage personal issues while also trying to run your massage business.