Mary-Claire reveals her hands-on experience creating face, body & massage emolients products from everyday ingredients. With detailed chronicles of weeks spent fine-tuning the perfect blend of beeswax, castor oil, and avocado oil, she explores how these natural products can benefit your skin.
If you're intrigued by DIY skincare or want to know more about how natural products can support healthy skin, this episode will intrigue and inspire.
**Podcast Episode Summary:**
Today’s episode is all about using natural products like beeswax, castor oil, and avocado oil in the making of facial and body products. It can be used for self-care or as a lubrican for massage clients .
The topic gives a detailed description of the experimentation conducted over several weeks to create the desired texture of the product. The process involved the addition of varying amounts of avocado oil and castor oil to beeswax – a locally procured natural ingredient. The benefits of using these specific ingredients are also highlighted in the episode.
**Key Points**
- The making of a natural massage lubricant using beeswax, castor oil, and avocado oil.
- The benefits of using locally procured beeswax.
- The usefulness of Avocado and Castor oil for skin care.
- The experimentation to achieve the desired product consistency.
- Benefits of using natural and organic products over synthetic congested ones
This episode will captivate anyone intrigued by wellness, as our host candidly describes her transition from using chemical-laden massage creams to organic castor oil.
Hear Mary-Claire's account of the astounding healing and therapeutic properties of this ancient remedy. Whether you're a massage therapist, a wellness enthusiast, or merely someone that desires a healthier lifestyle, this episode will have you reevaluating the products you use and open your mind to the power of ancient remedies.
**Podcast Show Notes**
**Summary**
This podcast delves into the impact of massage oils and creams on our skin and general wellness. As a detox tool and a necessity in most massage therapy sessions, it is crucial that we form an awareness about the products we use. Primarily focusing on castor oil, an ancient remedy, we explore the benefits and potential use of castor oil in massage therapy and skin care routine.
**Key Points**
- Chemicals and artificial fragrances in massage oils can have harmful effects on our bodies.
- Switching to organic, natural oils or creams for massages is beneficial.
- Seed oils can be highly inflammatory.
- Castor Oil: An ancient remedy – It's anti-inflammatory, has some stickiness and glide to it, suitable for certain therapeutic treatments.
- Mixing castor oil with other oils (like avocado oil) can improve the texture and utility in massage practices.
- Castor oil is highly moisturizing, anti-inflammatory, improves circulation, and promotes relaxation.
- It's recommended to ask a client about any allergies before applying the oil.
- Adding essential oils to the blend can also help to suit the client's preferences.
- Castor oil can be mixed into creams to make them last longer, which can be especially beneficial in winter when the skin is drier.
**Link Mentioned**
Heritage Store Castor Oil - Large 32 oz bottle: https://amzn.to/47iF7GQ
They also have a 16 oz bottle.
(Affiliate links pay a teensy commission, but it doesn't affect your price.)
Unmasking Inflammation: A Deep Dive into its Causes and Effects" - In this riveting episode, we embark on an enlightening journey exploring the enigma of inflammation, how it manifests within us and why our eating habits may be to blame.
From exploring seasonal outbreaks to revealing truths about sugar, this episode is packed with a wealth of information both for you and your clients.
If your clients are grappling with unusual aches and pains, join us on this exploration of the mystery behind inflammation and discover how you can bring relief. Discover why your diet could be the culprit behind those strange aches and pains and how to take control.
**Summary:**
In today's episode, we delve into the subject of inflammation, the impact it has on our bodies and its connection to our diet. With the holiday season in full swing, it's particularly important to understand how our food choices can lead to increased aches, pains and inflammations. We discuss diverse ways inflammation appears in the body and identify certain food triggers that may exacerbate inflammation. This information can not only help you personally but provide valuable insights you can potentially pass on to your clients.
**Key Points:**
- Inflammation can manifest in different areas including joints, digestive system, respiratory system, skin, brain (causing mood issues or brain fog), heart and blood vessels, autoimmune diseases, and in muscles and connective tissues.
- Certain foods trigger inflammation: refined carbohydrates, trans fats, omega six fatty acids, alcohol, processed meat, excess refined salts, cooking oils, and dairy, especially for those who are sensitive or allergic.
- Changes in diet can significantly impact the level of inflammation in the body. Choosing healthier alternatives, reducing alcohol intake, and limiting consumption of processed foods can make a difference.
- As massage therapists, being aware of these factors can help in providing better care to clients, especially during the holiday season when dietary choices may differ.
**Links Mentioned:**
[RealMilk.com] https://www.realmilk.com
- Resource for finding raw milk,
[MassageMomentum.com]https://www.massagemomentum.com
- For further information, resources, and freebies.
To ask any questions or share comments, reach email at hello@massagemomentum.com.
Tune into a heartfelt episode that focuses on the importance of empathy and respect in the wellness industry. Through the emotional recounting of a friend's humiliating experience during a standard massage session, a startling reality comes to light about body shaming and professional conduct. This episode acts as a mirror, prompting us to reevaluate our attitudes and language, reminding us how they can shape someone else's experience.
**Podcast Episode 17: A Lesson in Empathy and Professionalism for Massage Therapists**
In this episode, we delve into a personal narrative shared by a close friend about his unfortunate experience at a massage therapy franchise. Suffering from Parkinson’s disease and seeking relief through deep tissue massages, he faced an unpleasant instance of body shaming and mockery that has repercussions on how he approached massage therapy onward. This episode educates therapists about the power of their words and the importance of empathy in their approach to clients. We underscore the significance of sensitivity, kindness, and confidentiality in the job.
**Key Points**
- The narrator’s friend, a Parkinson’s patient, recounts an upsetting incident of body shaming at a massage therapy franchise, which was a blow to his expectation of professionalism.
- The therapists at the franchise were overheard making fun of him needing a restroom break during the massage session.
- The incident had a profound impact on him, causing embarrassment, anger, and humiliation.
- Expresses disappointment about the lack of empathy and understanding from the therapists.
- Important for therapists to remember the trust and vulnerability clients place in them and always be mindful of their words and actions.
- Importance of treating clients with kindness, patience, and love irrespective of what could be the circumstance.
- Therapists should reflect on their words and actions and consider how they would feel if they were in a similar situation as a client.
- Emphasises that understanding and addressing people's ailments and difficulties with sensitivity forms the backbone of being a reliable massage therapist.
Send me a note on your thoughts: mailto:maryclaire@massagemomentum.com
Episode 16 digs into the challenging and often great reluctance of many massage therapists - raising their rates.
In this compelling conversation, we delve into the root causes of such fears, from self-confidence to competition to business skills in this lucrative and complex industry. Tune in and equip yourself with the insights and strategies necessary to confidently raise your rates without losing your clients.
**Podcast Show Notes**
* Summary
This episode is all about conquering fear and building confidence as a massage therapist, mainly focusing on raising rates. We explore the five reasons why massage therapists are hesitant about raising their charges, provide assistance on how to overcome each one, and discuss how to effectively raise rates without scaring away clients.
* Key Points
- Lack of confidence is a major reason massage therapists hesitate to increase their rates.
- Competition should be seen as a driving force rather than a threat.
- Lack of business skills often results in therapists undervaluing their services.
- Massage therapists need to understand the investment of time and energy required in their profession.
- Many therapists perceive resistance from clients about rate increases. But will you actually receive it?
* Links Mentioned
- Link to free PDF download on how to raise rates https://www.massagemomentum.com/raising-your-rates
Tune in for a hard-earned tale of a massage therapist's adventures with Groupon.
From the overwhelming response to her discount deal to juggling a flood of new clients, the episode provides key insights into setting and maintaining professional boundaries. It’s a must-listen episode for those pondering the allure of discount coupons for their businesses.
Learn from Mary-Claire's discovery of growth and transformation after selling a crap ton of 90-minute Groupon massages. She shares the lessons she learned in terms of maintaining boundaries, understanding her ideal client, and standing up for herself as a business owner.
**Key Points:**
- The episode opens with a discussion around the value of a massage service and questioning whether one should ever discount their service.
- Mary-Claire shares her personal experience of signing a deal with Groupon over a decade ago, leading her to offering massive discounts on her services.
- Groupon sales can be overwhelming and lack of knowledge about how the platform works can lead to over-commitment.
- Enforcing boundaries and saying no is crucial for both personal balance and quality of service.
- Understanding your ideal client can help filter out those seeking discounted services from those who truly value your service.
- Having clear rules and policies can help in maintaining boundaries and treating customers fairly.
- Regularly discounting your services may undervalue your capabilities and set a negative precedent.
**Links**
In episode 14 of Massage Momentum, embark on a personal journey with Mary-Claire from the days of working in a bustling day spa and a chiropractor's office to establishing a vibrant, profitable massage practice with a membership that exceeded her expectations..
This episode is not only a pit stop for massage therapists but a resource hub for all wellness providers and holistic practitioners. Tune in to understand how pricing, communication, launch styles, and making strategic rules and boundaries in your practice can turn your passion into a thriving business.
**Key Points:**
- The advantages and disadvantages of working at a day spa or chiropractor's office, and starting an independent practice.
- Why not to market services in school play programs.
- How to solve the problem of clients who love the service but forget to come back.
- The concept of online course development applied to personal practice.
- The investment in starting a massage membership and practical advice on increased income.
- Things to take into consideration when starting an in-person membership.
- Importance of detailed policies and terms for a massage membership.
- Details on an upcoming course called "Massage Memberships Made Easy", available October 8-12, 2023.
- Let's be Insta friends! https://www.instagram.com/maryclairefredette/
**Links mentioned:**
Upcoming course signup and free webinar for considering a massage membership.
For questions or inquiries, email hello@massagemomentum.com
It wasn't until I was working on an online membership as a back -end support for the company that I co-founded, the Center for Barefoot Massage, that it finally occurred 💡 to me that what I had learned would apply to an in person subscription too!
In today's podcast, I talk out how I "mis-mathed" my original membership and additional income. Der.
Did you know there's a lot to think about when it comes to creating a massage membership? Listen in to get some tips.
And, BTW, this content applies to anyone who's in a service-based business where you'd like to see clients at least monthly:
✔️ Massage therapists
✔️ Bodyworkers
✔️ Estheticians
✔️ Barbers
✔️ Hair stylists
✔️ Lash techs
and more.
Take a listen🎧 if you're in this kind of work and share ♻️ with a friend.
In episode 13, we venture into the uncharted waters of mindful email marketing for wellness professionals! Discover how a boxing metaphor can ramp up your interaction with clients and keep your diary full, without the desperation discount.
We plunge deep into the nuances of providing value in each communication, making your emails irresistible. Will this episode be the game-changer for your business? Tune in to find out!
**Episode Summary:**
In episode 13, we dive deep into the world of email marketing for massage therapists. We discuss the common pitfalls most therapists succumb to and how to navigate out of them. This episode aims to enlighten massaging professionals on the importance of connecting with clients consistently and establishing a regular email schedule to prevent clients from forgetting about scheduling appointments. Additionally, we provide tips on valuable content to share with your clients, such as self-care tips and wellness advice, and how to promote new modalities or share client testimonials. We also touch on using email to announce new packages or memberships.
**Key Points:**
- It's crucial to connect with clients regularly. Weekly emails are most recommended.
- Don't fall into the trap of only emailing clients when you have slots to fill. It's better to provide consistent valuable content rather than one-off promotional content.
- Use an email service provider like MailChimp, Mad Mimi, or Mailer Lite for broadcasting your emails.
- Share valuable, non-salesy content at least thrice before promoting any sales or packages. Your emails should serve your readers first before promoting your services.
- Use the Jab, Jab, Jab, Right Hook marketing technique by Gary Vaynerchuk. The jabs are valuable content sent to your clients while the right hook represents a call to action or promotional content.
- If writing emails becomes overwhelming, consider purchasing the social awareness email packages.
**Links Mentioned:**
- [Mailer Lite] https://www.mailerlite.com/
- [MailChimp] https://mailchimp.com/
- [Mad Mimi]https://madmimi.com/
- [Jab, Jab, Jab, Right Hook by Gary Vaynerchuk] https://amzn.to/3RDnWut
- [Social awareness emails-just $47. Massive time saver!] https://massagemomentum.com/products/social-awareness-emails
Let’s be friends on Insta! https://www.instagram.com/maryclairefredette/
Are you a massage therapist struggling to expand your clientele without depleting your bank account? Episode 12 will help you transform the way you market your business.
Learn about incentivizing referrals creatively, employing SEO for broader and more targeted visibility, and building enduring customer loyalty. Don't let budget constraints hinder your growth plans, tune in to amplify your influence without the heavy price tag.
**Summary of the Episode**
This episode focuses on three key strategies to attract more massage clients without incurring significant costs.
The strategies discussed include referral marketing, search engine optimization (SEO), and focusing on recurring clients.
Listeners will learn inventive tactics to motivate referrals, boost their web presence, and retain their clients for consistent business.
**Key Points**
1. *Referral Marketing*: Encourage existing clients to refer their friends and family, rewarding them with incentives such as discounts, extra massage time, free add-ons, or even a complimentary session. Use of tools like referral cards, contests, or an app like King Sumo to help stimulate referrals.
2. *Search Engine Optimization (SEO)*: By ranking higher in search engines like Google, more potential clients can discover your massage services. You can enhance your SEO by using targeted keywords in page titles, headers, and content of your posts, and also through getting other relevant websites to link back to you.
3. *Recurring Clients*: Secure recurring clients by offering incentives for them to return. This strategy eliminates the need for continual searching and marketing costs for new clients.
**Links Mentioned**
[Free webinar]: (https://massagemomentum.com/)
1. [King Sumo](https://kingsumo.com/)
2. [VistaPrint](https://www.vistaprint.com/)
3. [Canva](https://www.canva.com/)
4. [Massage Memberships Made Easy](https://massagemomentum.com/)
[Let’s be friends on Insta!] (https://www.instagram.com/maryclairefredette/)
Are you overlooking a significant strategy to stabilize your income as a solo therapeutic specialist? In this enlightening episode, Mary-Claire reveals an unexpected way to guarantee regular income: Massage Memberships! Discover how these subscriptions not only ensure a more consistent schedule for therapists but also benefit the health of your clientele. Listen in as she thoughtfully addresses common concerns and queries regarding pricing, packages vs memberships, and tracking methods – leaving you feeling ready to take control of your financial future.
**Podcast Show Notes**
**Episode Title:** Maximize Profits with a Massage Membership
**Summary:**
This episode discusses the benefits of creating a membership for those in the massage practice. It presents the pros, cons, and considerations when setting up a membership, such as pricing, what to include, and communication with clients. The purpose of this episode is to help massage practitioners understand the benefits of memberships for both them and their clients.
**Key Points:**
- Memberships might provide more consistent income than sporadic client bookings.
- Benefits of a membership for clients include consistent self-care, regular appointments, and discounted rates or specials.
- Memberships should consider offering recurring appointments.
- Packages versus memberships: While packages can be beneficial for clients, there can be potential downsides for massage practitioners, such as tax implications.
- It's essential to take into account how you plan on tracking and handling payments for memberships.
- One of the key considerations is ensuring that the price point of the membership or packages is such that you don't regret it and don't feel like you're losing money or giving away services for free.
**Links mentioned:**
- Free webinar providing further details about setting up a massage membership: [Massagemomentum.com](http://www.massagemomentum.com)
- Massage Memberships Made Easy course launch: Scheduled for October 8th through to the 12th, 2024.
- To contact via email for any further questions: MaryClaire@massagemomentum.com
Close your eyes and think about your childhood. The struggles, the joys and the messages your family and friends shared about money. In this enlightening episode, we discover how our early years can shape our financial health. Explore the workings of how past trauma and beliefs could be keeping you in a financial bind.
**Podcast Episode 10 Show Notes**
Summary of the episode:
In this episode, we dive deep into the realm of our money mindset. We explore where our limiting financial beliefs originated, how they're negatively affecting our financial progress, and the mindset changes we can make to overcome these obstacles. With personal examples and deep introspection, we uncover the power that our subconscious beliefs have over our financial health.
Key takeaways from this episode:
* Limiting money beliefs can often originate during childhood and can come from experiences such as growing up in a financially struggling family or having early negative experiences with money.
* Your beliefs about money play a vital role in how you handle the financial aspect of your career and business.
* It is necessary to identify and challenge your limiting money beliefs to overcome them.
* Hanging around with people who demonstrate a healthier money mindset can be beneficial in changing your financial perspective.
* It's crucial to remember that wanting money isn't inherently bad – money is useful for attaining certain necessities and can be used for good, such as helping those in need.
* Despite our preconceived notions, making money and being financially stable is a crucial aspect of being able to help others adequately.
Links:
Ready to grow your business? Our flagship course, Massage Memberships Made Easy, will launch again in October! Find out if a Massage Membership is right for your practice by catching the FREE webinar at www.MassageMomemtum.com
Summary:
This episode, Mary-Claire breaks down the four main learning styles - visual, auditory, reading/writing, and kinesthetic. It provides an overview of how each type of learner absorbs information best, along with tailored strategies to optimize learning and retention. Tips are included for learners of each style, like using flashcards, recording lectures, taking structured notes, and incorporating hands-on activities.
She emphasizes that most people have a blended learning style, but identifying your dominant style can help you study smarter. This episode features examples of how massage therapists and massage students can improve their learning. Understanding your learning style can be a game-changer for performing better in school, training, or any new skill development.
Show notes:
The 4 main learning styles: visual, auditory, reading/writing, and kinesthetic (0:23)
Links mentioned:
Learn barefoot massage from Mary-Claire / The Center for Barefoot Massage: https://affinitymassages.com/register_for_barefoot_training
Free gift: https://massagemomentum.com/burnout
Are you a massage therapist wanting to elevate your clients' experience without breaking the bank? This episode is for you!
Brands are built on customer experiences, and as a massage therapist your brand is no exception. Join us in exploring easy and cost-effective ways to elevate your service into a VIP experience that will delight your clients and boost your business.
Learn how to engage your clients more personally, how to add extra perks to your offers, and how to transform your workplace into a haven of tranquility.
**Summary:**
In this episode, we discuss how massage therapists can enhance their client's experience – and their own bottom line by creating a VIP experience. Some simple touches can make a big difference and many of them are very affordable. We delve into brainstorming ideas surrounding business, ambiance, aftercare, and communication during the massage. The subsequent steps will help you improve your services and offering with the ultimate goal of increasing your income and client satisfaction.
**Key Points:**
- Consider adding a VIP package to your business or a membership, which includes extra perks
- A VIP package can include exclusive features such as a foot scrub, hot towels, reflexology or special treatments that you only offer to VIP clients.
- Always remember to communicate with your clients, ask about their personal lives (notes from previous sessions can help here), and send out birthday cards or sympathy cards to show you care.
- Enhance the massage experience by adding free add-ons to any of your services. This could include hot stones, warm pillows, aromatherapy and more.
- Create a comfortable and relaxing environment for your clients by having phone charging stations, comfortable hangers for their clothes, and nice sheets for the massage table.
- Post-massage, consider offering mints, infused water, fair trade chocolates, or even a hand towel for clients to wipe off any excess oil.
- Ensure your bathroom is stocked with quality products including nice toilet paper and feminine products.
**Links Mentioned:**
- Free Webinar: How to know if a massage membership is right for you at www.massagemomentum.com
- Free Download-63 Ways to Create a VIP Experience for your Massage Clients: www.massagemomentum.com/63ways
Entering the world of massage therapy? Listen to episode 7, where we delve into the four categories of things we wish we had known before getting into the field.
From understanding why people enter the profession and what the studies entail, to the truth about earning potential, school expectations, business acumen importance, and inevitable burnout risks. In this episode, we'll share valuable lessons that will both inspire and prepare aspiring massage therapists.
**Podcast Episode Summary:**
In this episode, Mary-Claire delves into discussing the experiences of massage therapists and shares what she wished she knew before stepping into the field.
As a seasoned massage therapist, she talks about expectations versus realities and the challenges one may face in massage school, as well as the massage field.
**Key Points:**
**Links Mentioned:**
Interested in massage coaching? I have a limited number of spots available. Email me at maryclaire@massagemomentum.com so we can set up a discovery call to see if we're a good fit.
Trail Guide to the Body: https://amzn.to/44bTbQ6
Trail Guide to the Body flashcards (I wish they had these when I was in massage school!) https://amzn.to/3OZShC0
Principles of Manual Medicine: https://amzn.to/3sf3SUH
These are affiliate links. I get a few pennies if you purchase through them. It doesn’t change your price.
In a visually driven digital age, professional photography can make or break your massage practice. In Episode 5, your host Mary-Claire Fredette delves deep into the unseen benefits of professional photography for your business.
Learn how high-quality images can significantly enhance first impressions of your practice, build trust with potential clients, exemplify your individual skills, and increase online engagement. Get ready for an eye-opening discussion that could take your massage or bodywork business to the next level.
**Podcast Episode #5: Professional Photos, Real Connection: Elevate Your Brand
**Summary:**
In this episode, Mary-Claire Fredette delves into the importance of investing in professional photography for your massage or bodywork practice. She outlines five key reasons that professional photography is not just a luxury, but a crucial element of your branding and client trust-building.
**Key Points:**
- First Impressions Matter: Proper photos on your website and social profile help create trust with your potential clients. They show you take your business seriously and deliver professional, reliable service.
- Showcases Your Unique Selling Points: Use professional photos to highlight your specific skills, your specialized services and the unique features of your space. This helps clients know exactly what they are getting.
- Increases Online Engagement: High-quality images stand out on social media, increasing the chances of engagement with your audience – they're more likely to like, share and comment on visually appealing images.
Links mentioned:
Do you love doing massage but you're getting burned out? Check out our FREE guide to preventing burnout in your massage or bodyworker practice.
Episode Description: What can an Urgent Care visit teach about running a successful massage business? In this riveting episode, our host finds herself grappling with an uncomfortable eye condition that leads her on a path of discovery. Despite the medical frustrations, she gleans several important takeaways about customer care and transparency within her profession. Whether you're in the massage business or not, these tips promise great value in providing an exceptional customer experience!
**Podcast Show Notes: Episode 6 -Massage Lessons Learned from Urgent Care
**Summary:**
In episode 6, the host shares surprising lessons learned from a recent urgent care visit that applies to her massage business. She talks about the importance of the client experience, starting from parking to the welcome received, room environment, communication, and advising clients on post-massage care.
**Key Points:**
1. The environment, including parking and the waiting room, plays a significant role in the client's experience, so ensure it's convenient, clean, and comfortable.
2. Make clients feel welcome no matter what. Receptionists should greet clients warmly, regardless of whether they arrive early or late.
3. Clear, concise communication is crucial. Clients need to fully understand each process, including advice on aftercare post-massage.
4. Explaining or directing clients to available facilities like the bathroom makes them feel more comfortable.
5. Always offer post-massage advice regarding aftercare and potential reactions to the treatment.
**Links:**
Learn how to improve your client's experience by visiting [massage momentum.com/63ways](http://massagemomentum.com/63ways) to receive the host's free giveaway of "63 Ways to Create a VIP experience for your clients".
If you found this episode beneficial, don't forget to subscribe and hit the notification button for future episodes, and consider sharing it with your massage therapist or bodyworker friends.
Description: Dive into the podcast episode that tackles a topic critical for newbies in the massage therapy field. Mary-Claire Fredette brings clarity to the debate between a rent-based or percentage-based room arrangement. Discover the pros and cons of each option and get useful tips to negotiate the best deal before you kick-start your massage therapy career.
### Episode Summary:
In this episode, podcast host Mary-Claire Fredette explains the two ways massage therapists can run their businesses: via room rental or a commission/percentage based system. She weighs the advantages and disadvantages of both methods to help new therapists make an informed decision on how to operate their practice.
### Key Points:
- The percentage paid for using a space can vary depending on the location, but around 50% is typical. This covers liabilities such as insurance, utilities, amenities, and more.
- The advantages of paying a percentage include no upfront costs for furnishing a massage room and typically no monthly rental fees, making it easier for therapists just starting out.
- Paying a percentage may also offer other benefits such as marketing and networking opportunities, especially if sharing a space.
- However, as the practice grows and the therapist begins to take on more clients, it might be more cost-effective to switch to a room rental.
- Room rental allows for full control over the business: from pricing and scheduling to branding decisions, plus the therapist gets to keep 100% of their earnings after deducting their operational costs.
- Disadvantages of room rentals include the initial investment and sole financial responsibility of all business costs. Networking opportunities may also be limited.
- Regardless of how therapists choose to structure their businesses, both come with their own set of challenges and benefits. Therapists should investigate and consider their options thoroughly.
### Mentioned Links:
Do you find yourself starting to dread your massage days when you used to love them? Your hands, wrists, and elbows ache, and you worry you won't be able to continue a career that you love?
Check out my guide, 22 Ways to Work Deeper (Without Hurting Yourself)!
Podcast description:
"Crack the Complexities of a Massage Therapy Career: Independent Contractor vs Employee"
If you've ever wondered about the distinction between being an independent contractor or an employee as a massage therapist, this episode is for you. Tune in as we delve into the murkiness of contractual obligations, freedoms, and responsibilities. Will you enjoy the flexibility and potential income of being an independent contractor or prefer the stability and support of employment? We spill the beans without the jargon and legalities, so make sure to tune in.
SHOW NOTES:
**Podcast Show Notes:**
**Episode Title:** The Differences between Being an Independent Contractor and an Employee for Massage Therapists**
Episode Summary:** In this episode, we dive into the world of massage therapy. We detail the essential differences between working as an independent contractor and being an employee. Drawing from real-life examples and experiences, we also evaluate the financial implications, flexibility, stability, and the overall autonomy each working situation brings. This episode is a resource for massage therapists struggling to settle on the best working situation for them.
**Key Points:**
1. Independent contractors have control over their schedules, but they also bear the responsibility of managing their business operations, marketing, and booking payments.
2. As an independent contractor, you can deduct your mileage from your home office to the place of your work, making room for tax deductions.
3. One downside of being an independent contractor is having to handle your self-employment taxes, Medicare contributions, and retirement savings.
4. As an employee, you work set hours and have less flexibility, but you also get a steady income and your employer handles most of your contributions (Tax, healthcare, etc.)
5. The pay structure varies between the two types of employment, with independent contractors typically earning more due to the added responsibilities.
6. Independent contractors tend to have higher potential earning opportunities but also greater expenses and less benefits as compared to employees.
7. Remember to consider long-term career goals and personal preferences when deciding between the two forms of employment.
**Links Mentioned:**
- Free giveaway of '63 Ways to Create a VIP Experience for Your Clients': [massagemomentum.com/63ways](http://massagemomentum.com/63ways)
- AMTA for liability and medical malpractice insurance for independent contractors: [amtamassage.org](https://amtamassage.org)
- Massage Magazine for insurance options: [massagemag.com](http://massagemag.com)
In this episode, we delve into the challenging world of client strategies for massage therapists. No, we're not talking about those who make inappropriate requests - those are easy to deal with. We're talking about the more subtle challenges, like clients who don't respect your time or who constantly want to engage in heated debates. Listen in as we outline the strategies you need to manage these trickier situations gracefully.
In this episode, we discuss dealing with challenging massage therapy clients. We delve into specific strategies on enforcing policies, respecting the therapist's time, handling argumentative personalities, maintaining the massage therapist's scope of practice and the pitfalls of working out the purview of their expertise. Ultimately, the therapist's goal should be creating an optimal environment for themselves and their clients.
**Key Points:**
**Links:**
Need help with mindset and strategy? Check out these books I recommend!
In this episode, we cover a topic many self-employed individuals struggle with: raising their rates. It talks about the fears of losing clients and facing complaints, but at the same time, the need to earn more. We discuss three points to consider: 1) Raising rates might lead to fewer clients, but it can still equate to the same or more income. 2) Most clients don't complain about rate increases and may even encourage it. 3) The clients who do complain or look for discounts may not be the ones you want to retain in your practice anyway.
**Key Points:**
- It's okay, and sometimes necessary, to lose some clients when you raise your rates.
- You could potentially end up working fewer hours for the same income.
- Most clients understand the need for rate increases and won't complain.
- The clients that do complain or continually look for discounts may not be the best to retain for your overall business health.
- Never be afraid to raise your rates if your value proposition matches your pricing.
**Links Mentioned:**
1. Email Mary-Claire with any questions or suggestions at - mailto:hello@massagemomentum.com
2. Stay tuned for the next episode about dealing with problematic clients.
