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Episode 38: Combating Sexual Misconduct and Supporting LGBTQ+ Voices in the Massage Community with Brendan Carr

In this episode of the Handcrafted Therapies Podcast, host Julie Alexander is joined by Brendan, a recent graduate of Kikino Massage School. They tackle the difficult and potentially triggering topic of sexual misconduct, particularly within the LGBTQ+ community and the massage therapy profession.  

Brendan shares his personal experiences with abuse, his journey to establishing boundaries, and the challenges faced by gay massage therapists. The discussion includes the impact of dating apps misrepresenting massage therapists and the importance of creating a safe and professional environment for clients. They conclude with the idea of starting a petition to address these issues, highlighting the significance of empathy, authenticity, and forgiveness in the healing process. 

In this episode, Julie and Brendan:  

  • Combating Sexual Misconduct in Massage Therapy 
  • Supporting LGBTQ+ Voices in Massage Community 
  • Establishing Boundaries for Personal Protection 
  • Addressing Human Trafficking in U.S. States 

Timestamps

[00:48] Trigger Warning and Topic Introduction  

[07:07] Finding Chosen Family and Establishing Boundaries  

[10:19] Sexual Misconduct in the Gay Community  

[12:03] Challenges Faced by Gay Massage Therapists  

[17:12] Addressing Misconceptions and Solutions 

[20:04] Human Trafficking in the US  

[20:41] Human Trafficking in the Gay Community  

[21:53] Safety Concerns in Massage Therapy  

[22:48] Empowering Clients with Boundaries  

[28:21] The Importance of Empathy and Support  

[30:23] Forgiveness and Personal Growth  

[36:33] Addressing Sexual Misconduct in the Industry  


About the Brendan Carr

More About Brendan Carr 

My name is Brendan Carr, I am a Massage Therapist and a graduate of Ke Kino Institute of Healing, with a year and a half of professional practice. However, my journey toward this work spans a lifetime. As a survivor of 17 years of psychological and physical abuse from my mother, sexual assault by someone I once called a ‘best friend,’ and overcoming alcohol addiction, I have found clarity in my life’s purpose: to transmute pain and heartbreak into unconditional love, personal growth, and radical self-acceptance. My practice blends corrective techniques, somatic bodywork, and emotional integration, all aimed at fostering deep healing and transformation. Notable influences on my work include: John James, Marni Matyus, The Upledger Institute, and Wilko Iedema, to name a few. 

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To learn more about Julie Alexander, LMT, and Handcrafted Therapy Events and Wellness Center, head over to www.handcraftedtherapy.com 

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Episode 35: Building a Successful Massage Business with Valarie Karpiel

In this episode of the Handcrafted Therapy Podcast, host Julie Alexander interviews Valerie Karpiel, a massage therapist and business owner in Jackson Hole, Wyoming. Valerie discusses her transition from education to massage therapy, her rapid rise in the industry, and her unique approach to combining therapeutic and relaxation massage techniques.

They explore Valerie’s recent accomplishments, including becoming the president of the AMTA Board for Wyoming and her experience competing in the massage championship. The discussion also covers effective business and marketing strategies, the significance of community in the massage industry, and Valerie’s plans to expand and share her knowledge through workshops and mentorships.

 In this episode, Julie and Valerie discuss:

  • Massage business marketing tips
  • Buying and managing spas
  • Challenges managing independent contractors
  • Tailoring services to local clientele

TIMESTAMPS

[01:32] Valerie’s Journey into Massage Therapy

[03:58] Discovering the Migraine Miracle

[08:46] Transition to Wyoming and Business Ownership

[17:21] Managing Independent Contractors

[22:59] Marketing Strategies for Massage Therapists

[24:39] The Importance of Location in Marketing

[25:29] Face-to-Face Marketing Strategies

[27:17] The Power of Free Massages

[33:34] Referral Programs and Networking

[36:44] Volunteering and Community Building

[41:40] Massage Competitions: Pros and Cons


About Valerie

To learn more about Valerie Karpiel head over to

www.massageprofessionalsjh.com AND

www.massagepros-lodge.com

You can also follow Valerie on Instagram @massageprosjh and on Facebook: @MassageProfessionalsJH

Covid LMT graduate, worked in franchises and spa settings in the metroplex. started my 1st practice in Mansfield. Received my MTI and CEP licenses. Dec 2022 purchased Massage Professionals of Jackson Hole. Spring 2023 competed in Massage Championships (brought home the gold) January 2024 opened 2nd location (Massage Professionals at The Lodge) May 2024 elected President for Wyoming chapter AMTA.


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To learn more about Julie Alexander, LMT, and Handcrafted Therapy Events and Wellness Center, head over to www.handcraftedtherapy.com 

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Episode 34: Embracing Technology: Transforming Massage Education with Greg May 

In this episode of the Handcrafted Therapy Podcast, host Julie Alexander interviews Greg May, a seasoned massage therapist and director of the massage therapy program at Parker University. Greg shares his personal story of overcoming a severe case of ulcerative colitis through massage therapy, which ultimately inspired his career change and lifelong dedication to the profession.  

They discuss the various benefits of massage therapy, including stress reduction and treatment of visceral disorders, and the integrative approach at Parker University combining chiropractic care with massage therapy. Greg also highlights the advanced technology and extensive resources available at Parker, fostering a comprehensive learning environment for students. 

Topics Discussed: 

  • Technology in Massage Therapy Education 
  • Advanced Programs and Professional Opportunities 
  • Integration with Chiropractic Program 
  • Future in Integrative Medicine 

Timestamps

[00:40] Greg’s Early Life and Career Beginnings 

[01:12] Health Struggles and Diagnosis 

[04:24] Discovering Massage Therapy 

[06:16] Journey to Becoming a Massage Therapist 

[13:31] Parker University’s Unique Offerings 

[25:04] The Future of Integrative Medicine 

[26:09] Technology in Massage Therapy Education 

[26:25] Anatomy and Training Insights 

[27:45] Virtual Dissection and Gamification 

[30:27] Hands-On Learning and Technology 

[32:45] Advanced Programs and Professional Opportunities 

[40:41] Medical Massage and Career Advice 

[46:22] The Versatility of Massage Therapy 

[49:33] The Benefits of Massage Skills 


About Greg May

Visit Greg’s website  

Follow  Greg May Medical Massage Concept- on Facebook 

Follow Muscle Scholars Society on Facebook  

Gregory May began his career as a massage therapist in 1991 after an obscure form of massage therapy, known as Segment-Reflex Massage, helped cure him of severe, life-threatening ulcerative colitis. He immediately quit his stressful job unloading railcars and intensely studied the works of many of the great massage therapy masters such as Barbara Condon, Paul St. John, Dr. Leon Chaitow, Rich Phaigh, Dr. Ross Turchaninov, and Oleg Bouimer. He has been practicing for over 30 years and has taught all aspects of basic and advanced massage therapy programs for over 25 years. He has implemented and directed medical massage curricula at many Texas schools. Greg is proud to be the Director of the Parker University School of Massage Therapy and his door is always open for students. He leads a team of 30 + Massage Therapists providing recovery massage for the Dallas Cowboys and other area professional sports teams. Greg owns medicalmassageconcept.com, a licensed continuing education provider company. His mission is to maximize the impact of Massage Therapy on humanity by reducing pain and suffering, avoiding invasive procedures, and promoting optimal performance and wellness of the complete individual.


Connect with Julie Alexander and Handcrafted Therapy Join our email list

To learn more about Julie Alexander, LMT, and Handcrafted Therapy Events and Wellness Center, head over to www.handcraftedtherapy.com 

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