The Health Leader Podcast

Episodi

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  Ep 142 The Nervous System & Chronic Pain with Kylie Hicks 17.07.2026 47min

  Ep 142 | The Nervous System & Chronic Pain with Kylie Hicks What if the missing piece in chronic pain wasn't another technique, but understanding the nervous system? In this episode, we sit down with remedial massage therapist and chronic pain Specialist Kylie Hicks, whose work is changing the way therapists think about pain. Kylie has spent more than 20 years helping people who have often been told there's nothing more that can be done. Together we talk about why so many people with chronic pain feel unseen, unheard, and misunderstood, and how understanding the nervous system can completely change the treatment experience. In this episode we discuss: • Why chronic pain is about so much more than tissue • How to recognise the nervous system patterns behind pain • The language Kylie listens for in every first consultation • Why helping clients feel truly seen is often the beginning of healing • How changing pain can change long-held beliefs about a diagnosis • The importance of therapist presence, rapport, and creating safety • Why rebooking is part of the treatment plan, not just good business Kylie also shares the case study that earned her the Massage & Myotherapy Australia Case Study Award where she shared how one client went from years of pain and the prospect of another surgery to living pain-free and traveleing the world. Whether you're a massage therapist, bodyworker, or simply fascinated by the connection between the nervous system and chronic pain, this episode will challenge the way you think about recovery and remind you of the incredible impact we can have as practitioners. Enjoy the conversation. To find out more about Kylie Hicks: https://www.kyliehickscoaching.com/course/the-chronic-pain-mapping-method To listen to Di's Story: https://www.facebook.com/share/v/1Ef2aoGgkJ/
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  Ep 141 Get the most from every workshop: the secret practice proven to triple your learning outcomes 19.06.2026 35min

  From Workshop to Clinic: Practical Strategies to Implement What You Learn On the Health Leader Podcast, hosts Elicia, James, and Christine reflect after the Massage & Myotherapy Conference and discuss how to turn workshop learning into real clinical results. Christine shares her high-volume training experience (about 33 workshops in three years plus advanced TMJ study in the UK) and her implementation system: pre-booking relevant clients to practise on immediately after training, reviewing manuals each night, creating mind maps with key takeaways and questions, using shorthand notes with memorable nicknames (e.g., "pizza slice muscle" for glute minimus), and posting prompts on the wall for practice until skills become muscle memory. They also explain how their workshops use grounding and nervous system regulation, reflection activities, multi-style teaching (visual, auditory, kinesthetic, analytical), scripted repetition, and real public models with before/after photos in Gentle Scar Therapy to build confidence and evidence of change.   00:00 Welcome to Health Leader 00:26 Conference Reflections 01:41 Christine's Workshop System 02:51 Mind Maps and Memory Hacks 06:05 Post Workshop Implementation 06:46 Charging While Practicing 10:09 Grounding and Presence 14:41 Teaching for Learning Styles 16:56 Hot Stones Demo Flow 18:52 Full Treatment Practice 20:09 Learning Styles and Script 21:35 Workshop Day Structure 23:10 Real Models and Results 26:39 Confidence Through Repetition 30:27 Trust the Technique 32:34 Embracing Beginner Mindset 33:22 Gentle Stones and Intent 34:10 Wrap Up and Next Steps
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  Ep 140: The Hidden Impact of Scars: Why Pain Keeps Coming Back 25.05.2026 58min

  Ep 140: The Hidden Impact of Scars: Why Pain Keeps Coming Back What if the reason your client's pain keeps returning has nothing to do with the area you're treating? In this episode, Elicia and Christine unpack one of the most overlooked pieces of chronic pain and recovery: scars. Not just the visible scar… But the adhesions, compensation patterns, breathing changes, nervous system responses and fascial restrictions that can continue affecting the body for years after surgery or injury. This conversation will completely change the way you look at pain, posture and recurring treatment patterns. Inside this episode: • why old scars can still create pain decades later • how scars affect fascia, lymphatics, nerves and movement • why some clients keep plateauing despite "good" treatment • the surprising symptoms linked to scars • the emotional and psychological impact of living with scars • when it's safe to work on newer scars and its totllay ok to WAIT! • why scar-informed care is still incredibly rare • and how gentle scar therapy can create profound shifts in the body And Christine's first experince with scar therapiy IN a workshop (not related to scars!) how a 10-minute treatment relieved severe pain for 18 months! Why do some clients finally feel like themselves again after years of discomfort? Because scars are common. But scar-informed care is not.
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  Ep 139: When The Body Speaks: Mental Health, Boundaries & The Massage Room 26.04.2026 37min

  What happens when your client's pain goes beyond the physical? In this episode, we sit down with Matt Runnalls, a mental health advocate whose story is as powerful as it is important for every massage therapist to hear. This conversation goes beyond techniques and into what's really happening beneath the surface. The nervous system. The patterns. The "knots" in someone's timeline that continue to show up in the body. Matt shares how many of the challenges we face are not random. They are moments in our life that we have attached meaning to. And unless we change that meaning, we keep tripping over them again and again. As therapists, we often become the place where people finally feel safe enough to open up. But where is the line? How do you support without stepping outside your scope? And how do you protect yourself while still holding space? Inside this episode, we explore: • Why presence is one of the most powerful tools you have • How emotional experiences show up as physical tension • The concept of "knots" in your timeline and how to reframe them • Why changing meaning can change everything • How to hold strong, healthy boundaries in your clinic • What to say when a client shares something deeper • How to refer with confidence and integrity This is a conversation that will shift how you see your clients, your role, and even your own experiences. Because when we stop trying to remove the pain and instead learn from it, that's where real change happens. Meet Matt Over many years, Matt Runnalls has worked tirelessly as a mental health advocate to create awareness, acceptance, and education. Having lived with a mental illness, surviving suicide attempts, and losing several friends to suicide, Matt utilizes his knowledge of lived experience to encourage others to feel comfortable to speak up and manage their well-being just as he continues to do. Since devoting himself to advocacy full-time, Matt has delivered over 600 presentations, workshops, and events across Australia, Canada, and America. His story and journey have been featured in books, documentaries, songs, podcasts, films and throughout most big Australian media outlets. Matt's dedication and tireless efforts have been recognised as he was awarded an Australia Day Medallion in January 2018 and as a 2021 Australian of the Year nominee. Matt is committed to using his voice and experiences as a platform to instill acceptance, purpose, and hope.
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  Ep 138: Active Listening and Informed Consent: Fundamentals to Successful Practice – with Pam Fitch 12.03.2026 55min

  What do you do when a client freezes, over-explains, rushes the intake… or tells you way more than you expected? In this episode, Christine Knox interviews Pam Fitch, on the foundations of trauma-informed massage: legitimate consent, deep listening, boundaries without shutdown, and building trust that keeps clients coming back. Pam is a dedicated massage therapist with over 40 years in practice, and she shares from her personal experience as well as dep knowledge of the industry. If you want practical language you can use in practice today – this one's for you. MENTIONED: – See more about Pam on her website: https://www.pamelafitch-rmt.com/about.html – Watch more of The Health Leader Podcast and our other free trainings: https://healthleaderco.com/podcast  
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  Ep 137: Building Strength, Resilience, and Global Impact with Sarah Nehme 13.02.2026 26min

  Join me on The Health Leader Podcast as I speak with Sarah Nehme, global head of programming at BFT, about her incredible journey in elite sports, athlete rehabilitation, and running multiple gyms while leading global training programs. Sarah shares her strategies for mastering time management, balancing work and life, building strong networks with other practitioners, and staying disciplined while chasing big goals like marathons. Whether you're a health professional, clinic owner, or someone striving to perform at your best, this episode is full of inspiration, actionable insights, and stories that show how passion, discipline, and smart choices lead to extraordinary results.
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  Ep 136 Boobs, Lymph Flow and Why It Matters with Chelsey Jean 15.01.2026 37min

  What if the most overlooked system in the body is the key to reducing inflammation, improving energy, supporting immunity and changing women's health outcomes forever? In this powerful and honest conversation, we're joined by Chelsea Jean, sports therapist, naturopath, educator and the woman famous for saying "I rub boobs" (and meaning it in the most professional way possible). Chelsea shares how lymphatic health became her life's work, why lymphatics have been overcomplicated for far too long, and how therapists can confidently integrate lymphatic education and treatment into their practice without fear, fluff or confusion. From Boob Camp to compression boots, breast health to business growth, Chelsea Jean brings big energy, a big mission, and zero hesitation when it comes to helping women take control of their health. With a bold personality and deep expertise in lymphatics, she is a true force in the wellness space. Guest Links Learn more about Chelsea Jean and her work here: https://chelseyjean.com.au/
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  Ep 135 The 2025 Health Leader Co Wrap Up 15.12.2025 42min

  🎙️ 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?          
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  Ep 134: The 5 Rules for Building a Sustainable Massage Career with Brad Hiskins from MWax 21.08.2025 1h 23min

  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
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  Ep 133: Elevating Hygiene Standards in Therapy Spaces with Ibrahim Samaan from Purifas 08.08.2025 10min

  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!
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  Ep 132: From Maximum Security to Accidental Therapist with Bruce Stark 31.07.2025 14min

  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
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  Ep 131. National Conference Recap with Ann Davey - CEO of Massage & Myotherapy Australia 25.07.2025 11min

  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    
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  Ep 130: The Hidden Power of Decluttering with Lauren Winzar 23.05.2025 47min

  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/   
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  Ep 129: 33 Years, Global Conferences & a Hall of Fame Career with Scott Dartnell 09.05.2025 49min

  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/    
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  Ep 128: From Massage Table to Wrestling Ring with Jarrod Fritz 02.05.2025 45min

  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.
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  Ep 127: Lymph Love & Superheroes with Robin Devine from LymphyCon 22.04.2025 36min

  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
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  Ep 126: How to Grow Your Allied Health Team with Confidence with Norelle Pratt 11.04.2025 53min

  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
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  Ep 125: Ethical Dilemmas You Weren't Warned About with Elicia, James & Christine 28.03.2025 25min

  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.
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  Ep 124: Cyber Security for Small Business with Kimberley Roberts-Salee 21.03.2025 34min

  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.
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  Ep 123: Pricing: You can charge HOW much? with Elicia, James & Christine 13.03.2025 20min

  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.