

Folding Towels - A Podcast for Massage Therapists with Jackie and David
Jackie Kerin and David Clayton
Jackie Kerin and David Clayton met over a massage table in Adelaide (Australia) back in 2015 - now they bring their quirks, and passion for the industry to this brand-new podcast. Discussing all the things they never told you about in massage school - complex cases, difficult customers, maintaining boundaries, administration, being in business and making decisions, and the never-ending pile of laundry. Most importantly, staying passionate to do what you actually trained to do and love. Folding towels is the massage class you wish you could take; with all the questions you wish you'd asked.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Oct 7, 2025 • 1h 9min
Episode 111: David Lobenstine - Falling in Love with Massage (Again and Again)
David Lobenstine, a massage therapist, educator, and writer, shares his journey from publishing to massage while emphasizing sustainable techniques. He discusses how Tai Chi principles have transformed his practice, advocating a 'pour, don’t push' approach for longevity. David dives into the importance of the body–brain–breath connection, highlighting practical tools to regain presence and joy in massage. He also reflects on the ongoing journey of falling in love with massage and the mutual nourishment that comes from a balanced therapist-client relationship.

Sep 30, 2025 • 59min
Episode 110: Nick Gabriele: Why Mobile Massage Needs Smarter Tools
Mobile massage is rewarding, but it also comes with unique challenges: endless travel, scattered notes, safety concerns, and admin that piles up fast.In this episode, we sit down with Nick Gabriele — therapist, educator, and co-founder of Noterro — to talk about what makes mobile practice so different from clinic work. Nick shares his journey from creating SOAP Vault, a simple note-keeping tool, to shaping practitioner-led solutions that put therapists’ needs first.We dive into the top pain points mobile therapists face, the things that often don’t get done because they’re too hard on the road, and why efficient, practitioner-focused systems matter more than ever. Nick also introduces Noterro GO, a new platform designed to tackle those challenges with features like geo-fencing, safety alerts, and hands-free note dictation.If you’ve ever felt like the “chief everything officer” of your own practice, this episode is packed with insights to help you reclaim time, reduce admin stress, and keep your focus on client care.👉 Lean more about Noterro: https://notero.com👉 Register MIMT Soft Tissue Congress - 26 October 2025 - https://mimt.edu.au/soft-tissue-congress-2025 Got thoughts on this topic? Let us know on Facebook and on Instagram👉 Support the podcast: [buymeacoffee.com/foldingtowelspodcast]👉 More episodes & resources: [foldingtowelspodcast.com.au]Theme Music: Simon Pettersson "All Alone" (2020), Licensed use through Audio Hero Inc

Sep 23, 2025 • 1h 4min
Episode 109: Laura Jane Layton - Self Care From the Inside Out
After decades in the corporate world, Laura Jane Layton found herself in a hospital bed following a heart procedure. That moment became her wake-up call — the signal that she needed to change her story, her self-talk, and her approach to life.In this conversation, Laura Jane shares what she calls “self-care from the inside out”: how to notice your body’s check engine light, how to shift the way you speak to yourself, and why choosing yourself first allows you to better serve others.If you’ve ever pushed too hard, ignored the signs, or struggled to balance caring for others while caring for yourself, this episode will give you both encouragement and practical steps to reclaim your energy and joy.👉 More from Laura Jane: https://laurajanelayton.com/👉 Laura Jane Layton Show Podcast: https://thelaurajanelaytonshow.com/👉 Book Mentioned: Comparisonitis: How to Stop Comparing Yourself to Others and Be Genuinely Happyhttps://www.amazon.com.au/Comparisonitis-Comparing-Yourself-Others-Genuinely/dp/1950665860👉 Register MIMT Soft Tissue Congress - 26 October 2025 - https://mimt.edu.au/soft-tissue-congress-2025 Got thoughts on this topic? Let us know on Facebook and on Instagram👉 Support the podcast: [buymeacoffee.com/foldingtowelspodcast]👉 More episodes & resources: [foldingtowelspodcast.com.au]Theme Music: Simon Pettersson "All Alone" (2020), Licensed use through Audio Hero Inc

11 snips
Sep 16, 2025 • 47min
Episode 108: Hitting the GST Threshold: Fear, Facts, and Freedom
Feel overwhelmed by GST? Fear not! The hosts break down the basics of GST in Australia, including its purpose and how it affects massage therapists. Discover the $75k turnover threshold and why crossing it is a reason to celebrate, not fear. They tackle common myths, share personal stories of first-time BAS panic, and explore the mindset shifts needed for those considering registration. Plus, get practical tips on handling input tax credits and choosing the right financial help. Tune in for clarity and confidence in your business!

Sep 9, 2025 • 1h 2min
Episode 107: Massage Math: The Numbers You Actually Need To Know
You didn’t become a massage therapist to do spreadsheets — but understanding a few core numbers in your business can be the difference between burnout and sustainability, between “barely scraping by” and feeling confident in your pricing, schedule, and goals.In this episode of Folding Towels, Jackie and David unpack the five key numbers every massage therapist should know — without getting buried in financial jargon or complicated systems. With a bit of humour and a lot of honesty, they break down how knowing your numbers can help you make smarter decisions about your time, pricing, energy, and business growth.You’ll learn how to:Work out how many clients you can sustainably see per week or month without frying your nervous system.Understand the real cost of delivering a massage, including the hidden time and energy expenses most therapists overlook.Reverse-engineer your pricing based on your financial needs, values, and actual capacity — not just what the place down the road charges.Track booking patterns, cancellations, and active clients to find gaps, avoid burnout, and tighten up your calendar.Spot seasonal trends and client rhythms so you can plan your holidays, promos, and quiet times like a boss.This episode is a gentle invitation to take stock — using what you already know, what your gut’s been telling you, and maybe a trusty legal pad. Whether you’re a numbers person or not, these simple insights can help you run your massage business with more clarity, confidence, and purpose. Got thoughts on this topic? Let us know on Facebook and on Instagram👉 Support the podcast: [buymeacoffee.com/foldingtowelspodcast]👉 More episodes & resources: [foldingtowelspodcast.com.au]Theme Music: Simon Pettersson "All Alone" (2020), Licensed use through Audio Hero Inc

Aug 19, 2025 • 1h 22min
Episode 106: Anyeska O’Rourke - Building a Practice That Reflects You
Anyeska O’Rourke was inspired to work in allied health from the age of 8. Put off by the prejudices of academics she went on to qualify as a Remedial Massage Therapist and work on the luxury resort island of Hayman Island. But it was an injury and a move to Canada that changed everything.In Canada, she fell in love with the wellbeing side of the industry — the slower pace, the heart-led care, the space to work with people more deeply. When she returned to the Gold Coast, she brought those values home with her.In this episode, she shares:✨ Why building your practice slowly is okay✨ How to shape your business around your values✨ What quiet leadership looks like✨ How doubt can be part of a thoughtful practice✨ And why success doesn’t have to mean hustle Got thoughts on this topic? Let us know on Facebook and on Instagram👉 Support the podcast: [buymeacoffee.com/foldingtowelspodcast]👉 More episodes & resources: [foldingtowelspodcast.com.au]Theme Music: Simon Pettersson "All Alone" (2020), Licensed use through Audio Hero Inc

Aug 12, 2025 • 39min
Episode 105: When Clients Cross the Line: Dealing with Creepers in Massage
Every now and then, a massage client crosses a line — and it leaves us feeling rattled, ashamed, or unsure of what to do next.In this deeply personal solo episode, David tackles a topic no therapist wants to deal with — but most will face at some point in their career. We’re talking about creepers: the clients who mistake therapeutic massage for something else, ask inappropriate questions, behave in sexually suggestive ways, or blatantly expose themselves.Drawing on real-life experiences and the insightful writing of Ian Harvey (Massage is Weird), David explores:The different types of creepers — and how to spot them earlyThe warning signs before they ever bookWhat to say when someone crosses the lineHow to fire a client professionally and protect your spaceAnd, most importantly, why you are not to blameWhether you’ve already had one of those “what just happened?” moments, or you’re trying to be prepared for the future, this episode is a must-listen. It’s not light. It’s not funny. But it is real, honest, and designed to help you stay grounded, safe, and strong in your work.🔗 If you find this episode helpful, share it with a massage colleague. Let’s support each other — and make it clear: That’s not what we do here. Got thoughts on this topic? Let us know on Facebook and on Instagram👉 Support the podcast: [buymeacoffee.com/foldingtowelspodcast]👉 More episodes & resources: [foldingtowelspodcast.com.au]Theme Music: Simon Pettersson "All Alone" (2020), Licensed use through Audio Hero Inc

Aug 6, 2025 • 13min
Episode 104: Book Review – The Trigger Point Therapy Workbook
Jackie reviews The Trigger Point Therapy Workbook by Clair and Amber Davies—one of her all-time favourite resources for understanding and treating myofascial pain. She shares how this book helped shape her practice, why it’s still relevant, and how both therapists and clients can use it for effective self-care. Whether you’re new to trigger point work or a seasoned practitioner, this practical, easy-to-follow guide deserves a place on your shelf. Got thoughts on this topic? Let us know on Facebook and on Instagram👉 Support the podcast: [buymeacoffee.com/foldingtowelspodcast]👉 More episodes & resources: [foldingtowelspodcast.com.au]Theme Music: Simon Pettersson "All Alone" (2020), Licensed use through Audio Hero Inc

Jul 29, 2025 • 35min
Episode 103: What to Do in Quiet Times
Is your diary looking a little empty? You’re not alone. In this episode, Jackie and David talk about how to handle those quieter patches in your massage business—without spiralling into panic or bingeing cat reels (well… maybe a few). We chat about low-cost, practical ideas to reengage past clients, using your time wisely, and staying visible even when bookings slow down. From simple marketing tweaks to making admin time work for you, this episode is full of honest advice, encouragement, and a few laughs. It’s a gentle nudge to stay steady and keep showing up—because quiet times don’t last forever. Got thoughts on this topic? Let us know on Facebook and on Instagram👉 Support the podcast: [buymeacoffee.com/foldingtowelspodcast]👉 More episodes & resources: [foldingtowelspodcast.com.au]Theme Music: Simon Pettersson "All Alone" (2020), Licensed use through Audio Hero Inc

Jul 8, 2025 • 60min
Episode 102: Living Fearlessly - Mel Woodward on Risk, Resilience, and Regional Life
In this episode, Jackie and David chat with Melissa Woodward, from Fearless Health in Dubbo, regional New South Wales. You're going to want to grab your notebook and pencil for this one because Mel's story is one of heart, grit, and just getting on with it.From flipping burgers as a quiet teenager, working with footy players, cutting her teeth in allied health to starting a practice, growing it, working with her husband, closing the business due to COVID, reopening, relocating 5 hours away, getting started again and growing one more (phew!)Mel reflects emotionally on what it is like to make tough decisions, and the steps and mindset that it takes to be visible in a small town, and why being fearless doesn’t mean being unafraid. If you’ve ever juggled motherhood, business, and big decisions, this chat will speak right to you.Connect with Mel🌐https://www.fearlesshealth.com.au/📷 Instagram: @melissa.fearlesshealth📘 Facebook: Fearless Health Dubbo💡 Got thoughts on this topic? Let us know on Facebook and on Instagram👉 Support the podcast: [buymeacoffee.com/foldingtowelspodcast]👉 More episodes & resources: [foldingtowelspodcast.com.au]Theme Music: Simon Pettersson "All Alone" (2020), Licensed use through Audio Hero Inc