Shows
Ben and Nate's Questions we ask people on the internetWhat happens online....Can it Affect your practice?Ben and Nate discussed the evolution of social media presence and its impact on professional life, particularly for massage therapists. They explored how personal and professional personas might intersect online, with Ben sharing his approach of maintaining separate social media presences and Nate emphasizing the importance of keeping his social media presence "vanilla" to align with his professional image. The conversation highlighted the challenges of managing multiple online identities and the potential risks of mixing personal and professional content, especially in light of recent incidents where public figures faced backlash for their social media posts.Nate and...2025-07-271h 00Ben and Nate's Questions we ask people on the internetAYEYE CAPTAIN!Do you use AI in your business? Ben and Nate discuss there own discoveries using AI and what the possibilities are down the road-From soap notes, time management to social media-How can AI work for you2025-07-0147 minBen and Nate's Questions we ask people on the internetMassage Therapy Career ReflectionsNate and Ben discuss various accomplishments in the massage therapy field, including overcoming industry misconceptions and developing innovative products. They reflect on their own experiences, noting that it took them about 5-8 years to establish successful practices, which is longer than the average career expectancy of 6 years or less for massage therapists. They also explore ideas for inventions in massage therapy, with Ben humorously suggesting tables that can flip or roll clients over. The conversation highlights the potential for innovation and entrepreneurship within the massage industry.Nate and Ben discuss their accomplishments in the massage therapy field...2025-06-1151 minBen and Nate's Questions we ask people on the internetWhat class changed your Massage path?Massage is an ever-evolving process, many of us rely heavily on continuing education to help shape our path as well as our techniques and technical application. What class changed your life?Ben and Nate discussed their experiences and evolution in their respective fields. Nate shared how his work changed after taking a continuing education class, which inspired a different way of working and thinking. He also mentioned how his work evolved over time, taking about two to three years to fully incorporate new techniques and confidence in his practice. Ben shared his similar experience, mentioning how he...2025-05-1750 minBen and Nate's Questions we ask people on the internetMassage is alive, with the sound of music!From Cannibal Corpse to ambient music-what's the soundtrack to your massage room?We talk about it all and then some-Music with words, no words? Heavy Metal or Music for Airports-What do you think is the soundtrack to your Massage is?2025-05-1748 minBen and Nate's Questions we ask people on the internetWho's on first?In this episode Nate and Ben discuss their referral relationships and strategies for building a professional network. Ben highlights that referrals should primarily aim to help people rather than just increase business. They agree that a team approach is essential for addressing clients' issues comprehensively. The conversation also covers methods for establishing new professional relationships, including personal experience, word-of-mouth recommendations, and reaching out to other practitioners to learn from them.2025-04-2845 minBen and Nate's Questions we ask people on the internetMemberships, The Gold Standard and Gift CardsRemember Groupon?Nate and Ben discussed various topics, including tipping culture, membership programs in their practice, and the management of a large practice. 2025-03-2454 minBen and Nate's Questions we ask people on the internetFreeStylinIn this episode Ben and Nate have a broad discussion about all things massage and dive into different topics in the massage profession-Enjoy!2025-02-2343 minBen and Nate's Questions we ask people on the internetFlag on the playNate and Ben discussed their experiences with clients who had undiagnosed serious health issues presenting as low back pain. Nate shared two instances where clients were diagnosed with stomach cancer and bone cancer after prolonged periods of low back pain. He emphasized the importance of knowing when to stop manual therapy and refer clients to other professionals. Ben shared an instance where a client experienced excessive bleeding after oral surgery, which he initially dismissed as a minor issue. Both agreed on the importance of being vigilant and cautious in such situations, and not to assume that everything is musculoskeletal or j...2025-02-2343 minBen and Nate's Questions we ask people on the internetHow do you bring new ideas to your clients?In this episode-Ben and Nate had the opportunity to meet in person and record our first podcast live!
Nate was in Omaha to celebrate and teach the work of Erik Dalton; and we took the opportunity to discuss a question that came up in class-
How do you add new things into your practice?
Enjoy this live episode with Ben and Nate
2025-02-0518 minBen and Nate's Questions we ask people on the internetAre there pros and cons to being a male in the massage industry?
Ben and Nate, both male massage therapists, discussed their experiences entering the profession. They both faced skepticism and disbelief from their families and friends, but persevered. Ben decided to become a massage therapist after reading a book about successful people making quick decisions, and he recognized he would have to work harder and present himself differently to be taken seriously. Nate, who had a background in music, found the academic aspects of massage therapy challenging but decided to work harder to succeed. They both noted that massage therapy has evolved and is now more widely accepted as an alternative...2024-12-1454 minBen and Nate's Questions we ask people on the internetTackling Burnout and Finding Fulfillment in Massage Therapy
In this episode, Ben and Nate dive into the reality of burnout in massage therapy, exploring both the physical and emotional tolls of the profession. From sharing their own experiences with career fatigue to discussing ways to prevent physical strain, they cover techniques like optimizing body mechanics, the importance of self-care, and the benefits of using a hydraulic table. They also touch on the importance of work-life balance, financial planning, and finding purpose in the profession. Tune in to learn how to navigate the challenges of the massage industry and create a sustainable, fulfilling career.
2024-11-1453 minBen and Nate's Questions we ask people on the internetEssentials for the New Massage TherapistIn this Episode, Ben and Nate pose the question What are essential skills for a new massage therapist to be successful?
We discuss everything from learning time management, developing a business plan, to learning how to interact with the public specifically when they come to you in pain.2024-11-0955 minBen and Nate's Questions we ask people on the internetThe person in the mirrorWhere does change begin? According to Michael Jackson, he was looking at the man in the mirror.
How has the perception of massage therapy changed over the years? Ben and I explore this question and more! Tune in-and let us know what you think.
2024-11-0450 minBen and Nate's Questions we ask people on the internetYou Imposter!Do you suffer from imposter syndrome, and if so how do you deal with it?
In episode 25 Ben and Nate discuss this topic and give our own thoughts-as well as our listeners!2024-09-1652 minBen and Nate's Questions we ask people on the internetGive the giftIn this episode Ben and Nate posed the questions:
Do you accept gifts from clients, what is your reason for accepting or being against accepting gifts.2024-09-1245 minBen and Nate's Questions we ask people on the internetThe AgreementWe as therapists should have policies and procedures in place-But how do you communicate these with your client and get them to agree to them, so you don't have muddy waters in the relationship.
In this week's episode we asked the question about policies-Enjoy and we hope you learn something. 2024-09-051h 03Ben and Nate's Questions we ask people on the internetIsn't that special?In this episode we asked the question:
As a massage therapist is it important to “specialize” in a modality or a particular technique? If so why, and how did you go about finding this particular area of focus?
2024-07-1454 minBen and Nate's Questions we ask people on the internetYou are fired!In season 2 episode 1- we discuss firing a client!
Have you had to do this? How did you do it and what was the outcome?
Many massage therapists play the role of therapist, front desk person! Often times playing the bad guy can be difficult but sometimes it's a necessity. If you are on the fence of how to let a client go, tune in for this great discussion!2024-07-0247 minBen and Nate's Questions we ask people on the internetWhat do you love most out being a Massage Therapist?In our 20th episode celebration, we invited everyone to join us to discuss "What do you love most about being a Massage Therapist?"
We had several massage therapists join in to discuss there take and to celebrate with us!2024-06-2735 minBen and Nate's Questions we ask people on the internetIt must be the money, PART 2!In episode 17 Ben and I asked the question:
What do you think about when you chose your rates? Ben and Nate explore some ideas about what to charge and what to think about; We also discussed your answers as well! This is a not miss episode for any therapist looking to increase their rates!
In Part 2 we brought in an expert-The Massage Mentor, Diane Matkowski- Who runs the multi therapist practice Freedom Massage. In this episode-Diane weighs in on running a practice, how to charge what to think about and gives her thoughts on how...2024-06-0255 minBen and Nate's Questions we ask people on the internetDoes Posture MatterIn episode 18 Ben and I asked the question:
In evaluating and working with a client- does posture matter? Is our perception of bad posture relevant (or vice versa) based off your answer how do you think the conversation on posture has changed if at all.
Sit back, or sit up straight and enjoy episode 18!
2024-05-2148 minBen and Nate's Questions we ask people on the internetHow do you chose your ratesHey! It must be the money!
What do you think about when you chose your rates? Ben and Nate explore some ideas about what to charge and what to think about; We also discussed your answers as well! This is a not miss episode for any therapist looking to increase there rates!2024-05-1950 minBen and Nate's Questions we ask people on the internetThe good and the badThe good and the bad
It's not all bad is it? In this episode Ben and I tackle the topic on A good versus bad massage therapist.
What qualities make a good massage therapist and what qualities make a bad massage therapist?
2024-05-091h 02Ben and Nate's Questions we ask people on the internetHow do you spell Success?
How do you get to Carnegie Hall? In this episode we discuss success, what defines success and how you do you know you made it as a Massage Therapist. In this episode we have special guest Eric Stephenson to join the discussion. Eric Stephenson, LMBT is President of imassage, Inc. in Chapel Hill, NC, an education and consulting company dedicated to extending the careers of massage therapists and spa practitioners through customized wellness programs. These include workshops focused on career longevity for massage therapists “No Thumbs Deep Tissue Techniques” and entire team workshops- “Creating A Respectful Workplace Culture” and “Designing...2024-03-2941 minBen and Nate's Questions we ask people on the internetLet's talk therapeutic toolsIn this weeks episode, Ben and Nate asked the question:
Ben and Nate have a question this week:Let’s talk therapeutic tools (cupping, IASTM,massage guns..) Do you use them? If so what would the benefits be to using something in place of your hands? Are your therapeutic outcomes different? And bonus question- how do you explain the why behind using therapeutic tools?
2024-03-0847 minBen and Nate's Questions we ask people on the internetWhat does Massage do?
We asked the questions What does Massage do? Is the answer simply YES!? Perhaps! In this episode we discuss what was taught to us, how the stories may have changed over the years and some of the things that we can safely say that therapeutic massage does. We are joined by special guest Jeremy Cowin; Jeremy owns a successful practice in California and has over 30 years of experience in the Massage Industry. Check him out on instagram at JC_stretch.
2024-02-2646 minBen and Nate's Questions we ask people on the internetWhat qualities in a mentor would you look for?A Coach, A Mentor and a Consultant walk into a bar....
In sports, music and business we may turn to a coach, or a consultant. But how about in the world of Massage Therapy? In this episode we talk about the differences in the 3, why you might hire a coach or mentor and what to look for when hiring one.
2024-02-0939 minBen and Nate's Questions we ask people on the internetMyths and Massage
Hot off the press-Episode 12In this episode Ben and Nate talk about Myths! We explore myths that have been in the massage industry-We explore myths that our perpetuated on both sides. From the therapist and from the client-We picked some of our favorite responses you and discussed how we can speak with our clients on dispelling these myths.
Also in this episode, we received our first audition tape! This came in from one of our listeners, James Waslaski. So we want to hear from you- did James pass the audition, comment below!
2024-01-3130 minBen and Nate's Questions we ask people on the internetMyths and Massage
Hot off the press-Episode 12In this episode Ben and Nate talk about Myths! We explore myths that have been in the massage industry-We explore myths that our perpetuated on both sides. From the therapist and from the client-We picked some of our favorite responses you and discussed how we can speak with our clients on dispelling these myths.
2024-01-3130 minBen and Nate's Questions we ask people on the internetWhat makes an industry leaderIn episode 10; we feature special guest Michelle Quigley. Michelle is a Licensed Massage Therapist from Connecticut.
In this episode we discuss What makes an industry leader- Is it someone that has a higher ranking? Is an industry leader someone that has a lot of experience or is it someone that is charismatic.
Which of these aspects matter, and what do we think makes up an industry leader. 2024-01-2139 minBen and Nate's Questions we ask people on the internetCan you explain pain?Can you explain pain to your clients? If a client asked you why they have pain what would you say?
Pain is one of the most complicated subjects, people come to us for various reasons, but if someone asked you what pain is what would you say to them? In episode 9 we discuss the different definitions of pain and how they can be discussed in your room2024-01-0935 minBen and Nate's Questions we ask people on the internetWho are Ben and NateIn this episode, the tables are turned! Ben and Nate ask each other questions about how they became massage therapists, there individual growth in the field and what obstacles they faced developing their business. 2024-01-0935 minBen and Nate's Questions we ask people on the internetThe ideal clientIn episode 7 we discuss what makes the ideal client.
The question posed in this weeks episode is:
What makes an ideal client? (Someone who’s on time, compliance etc..) how is it up to us to educate and “make” an ideal client?
Ben and I discuss this question in detail and share our experiences and growth on how we have been able to chose our clients.
2024-01-0926 minBen and Nate's Questions we ask people on the internetMassage as a Competitive SportIn episode 6- We discuss the growing popularity of Massage Competitions popping up and around the U.S.
What do therapists think about massage competitions, and is it good or bad for our industry, why?Edit- for those that need resources or clarification: Some resources...World Massage Championships - https://worldchampionship-massage.com/American Massage Championships - https://worldmassagefestival.com/2023/champion.html
2024-01-0929 minBen and Nate's Questions we ask people on the internetThe Massage Boss!In this special episode "5" We have special guest Tricia Gilbert AKA The Massage Mob Boss! This episode talks about all the amazing things Tricia is doing for the Massage Industry-Originating out of North Texas tune in for all the excitement and get inspired!2024-01-0924 minBen and Nate's Questions we ask people on the internetWhat's the most important and least important aspect of a Massage session
Episode 4!In this episode- Ben and Nate asked the question what you felt the most important and least important thing was as part of a session-Spoiler alert! We both agreed on what we felt was the least important part of the session and it's not what you think!All reactions:8You, Erik Dalton, Judy Slater and 5 others
2024-01-0927 minBen and Nate's Questions we ask people on the internetWhat advancements have happened in the Massage industryEpisode 3 of "Ben and Nates questions that we ask people on the internet."In this episode we discuss the question regarding How far Massage has come and perhaps what needs to happen next..Ben tells a great joke and once again makes me laugh.
2024-01-0928 minBen and Nate's Questions we ask people on the internetWhat do you like in a continuing education class?Welcome to Episode 2 of Ben and Nate's questions that we ask people on the internet-In this episode we discuss continuing education; specifically what people like about classes, and dislike. We deep dive into this topic and discuss the role of the teacher the student and the assistants. Enjoy!
2024-01-0931 min
Ben and Nate's Questions we ask people on the internetTechnique or ConnectionIn our first episode, Ben and I have the discussion regarding:
Education in the massage and manual therapy field can take us all on individual paths and “specialties.” I hear everyday many of my Facebook friends talking about the difference they made in the treatment room, each with a different modality. The question this week is do you believe it is your connection to your client or your modality that is truly making a difference?
2024-01-0917 min