
Folding Towels - A Podcast for Massage Therapists with Jackie and David
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.
Latest episodes

Feb 4, 2025 • 44min
Episode 082: Planning A Year You'll Be Proud Of
The new year is here, and it’s time to set yourself up for success! In this episode, Jackie and David guide you through setting personal, professional, and business goals that will shape your year in a way that feels exciting and achievable.
In this episode, we dive into:✅ Personal goals – What do you really want to do this year? Travel? More time with family? A fitness challenge?✅ Professional goals – How can you grow in your career? Take on more responsibility, learn a new skill, or specialise in something new?✅ Business planning – The one-page business plan that keeps things simple, clear, and actionable.
David and Jackie also share their own goals—including David’s plan to learn German for a bucket-list family trip, his upcoming 10km running race, and his specialist training in face, neck, and swallowing disorders.
Jackie reflects on reshaping her work-life balance, planning more family adventures, and shifting her niche towards lymphatic therapy.
Plus, they discuss how to break big goals into manageable steps, adjust when things change, and keep yourself motivated. And as a bonus, they’re giving away a free downloadable planning template to help you map out your perfect year.
📌 Download your free planners at https://foldingtowelspodcast.com.au/sign-up-for-freebies/
Don't forget to head to social media and share your goals with us!
** Support the Show **
If you have gotten value from the show, consider sending a small token of appreciation our way:
https://buymeacoffee.com/foldingtowelspodcast
*** Connect with Jackie and David ***
Do you want to reach out to us? Head to our Website and fill in the contact form.
https://foldingtowelspodcast.com.au
Find us on Facebook and on Instagram
https://www.facebook.com/FoldingTowelsPodcast
https://www.instagram.com/foldingtowels_podcast/
Theme Music: Simon Pettersson "All Alone" (2020), Licensed use through Audio Hero Inc

Dec 17, 2024 • 27min
Episode 081: XMAS Wrap up for 2024
Join Jackie and David as we let our hair down and blow off some steam about the chaos and joy of "this time of the year", while looking back on an incredible 2024.
We have brought you 43 episodes including 14 guests who have shared their stories, experience and passion for the industry with you.
Did you have a favourite guest this year? We thought they were all amazing!
With heartfelt thanks to listeners across Australia and around the world, Jackie and David wrap up the year with gratitude and anticipation for what’s ahead.
We Mentioned These in Our Episode
Episode 42– Stuart Hinds – Long Career Starts with Self Care - https://open.spotify.com/episode/1d9TsuWFqfYwDHICT0x5ac?si=b49194df4e124341
Episode 43 - Kelly Cunninghams – Your Leasing Co - https://open.spotify.com/episode/29H1Qf2J3mgCfxgsMUYoKP?si=a047574214714dc7
Episode 46 – Kylie Hicks – Chronic Pain and Headaches - https://open.spotify.com/episode/4neJqT4kGNqDmw3BbVik2g?si=7cb5e3e41063442b
Episode 47 – Rafael Bucater – language, Learning and Longevity - https://open.spotify.com/episode/4FeRPYcIxYp4p9nxVkEn6F?si=2111822f13094413
Episode 50 – Amy Tyler – A Career in Oncology Massage - https://open.spotify.com/episode/6vBxOJqP3Ml0OG2UBajtob?si=ff150f4c6e4e4118
Episode 54 – Ann Davey and Selena Hagen – Associations - https://open.spotify.com/episode/6b1CqsDlDs1iP91RKOD1OB?si=3900c22f8d3d4131
Episode 60 – Liz Sharkey – From hands on massage to running a practice - https://open.spotify.com/episode/0cIz4rB7hM1Eqfmo4AN1bU?si=fc82daeceba04f73
Episode 65 - Norelle Pratt – Getting Staffing Right - https://open.spotify.com/episode/6nev161YCljFhlEhNGyQVy?si=9d621ae56d5b459e
Episode 66 – Gary Lavis – Massage for People with Parkinsons Disease - https://open.spotify.com/episode/5ed5AjdCodHkOmIMoAIodm?si=d92d978981f04d8b
Episode 69 – Ronna Moore – From Practitioner to Researcher - https://open.spotify.com/episode/4tdyCllFWBVfGWEPJ8WSo2?si=44dee7a8df2d4eec
Episode 70- Carolyn Boldt – Designing Your Therapeutic Space - https://open.spotify.com/episode/28OBM1Ilky9N75vxytIWoW?si=d166ed3c42d54c99
Episode 72 – Your Personal Brand and End to End Client Care - https://open.spotify.com/episode/0MhG5Bipb8wXyjL4rTubSs?si=0zVwpjihRyGVCo59DIc8NQ
Episode 73 – Ronna Moore – On Palliative Care - https://open.spotify.com/episode/6MOMJTcAG6i1B6wwrjhzXZ?si=6a3dc0700978451b
Episode 74 – Paul Averil and Charlotte Keane – Levelling Up the Certified Practitioner
Program - https://open.spotify.com/episode/2QPkvV5BxIXnfCoJNiUdKY?si=bf6b49c701884a2f
Episode 77 – Massage Meets Research: Building an
Evidence Basse for Research - https://open.spotify.com/episode/0Ki1kb73bGv58zDpMqawqt?si=54ded60918c44d49
** Support the Show **
If you have gotten value from the show, consider sending a small token of appreciation our way:
https://buymeacoffee.com/foldingtowelspodcast
*** Connect with Jackie and David ***
Do you want to reach out to us? Head to our Website and fill in the contact form.
https://foldingtowelspodcast.com.au
Find us on Facebook and on Instagram
https://www.facebook.com/FoldingTowelsPodcast
https://www.instagram.com/foldingtowels_podcast/
Theme Music: Simon Pettersson "All Alone" (2020), Licensed use through Audio Hero Inc

Dec 10, 2024 • 49min
Episode 080: Your Questions Answered
In this episode, we dive straight into the questions you’ve been asking. From the logistics of overseas training to the nitty-gritty of taxation and bookkeeping, we tackle the practical challenges faced by massage therapists. We share plans for a new finance-focused series featuring experts, offering the tools you need to manage your business confidently.
We also discuss the industry-wide debate about whether there should be one governing body for massage therapists in Australia. With insights into current training standards and the challenges of uniting under a single voice, we explore what it could mean for the profession.
Ever wondered if association membership is worth it, especially for part-time mobile therapists? We break down the benefits, from networking and advocacy to access to resources and support. Plus, we unpack the pros and cons of massage subscription models and touch on the current chaos surrounding the NDIS and how it’s impacting therapists.
This episode blends advice, industry stories, and practical takeaways to help you make informed decisions. Have more questions? Let us know—we’re here to help!
** Support the Show **
If you have gotten value from the show, consider sending a small token of appreciation our way:
https://buymeacoffee.com/foldingtowelspodcast
*** Connect with Jackie and David ***
Do you want to reach out to us? Head to our Website and fill in the contact form.
https://foldingtowelspodcast.com.au
Find us on Facebook and on Instagram
https://www.facebook.com/FoldingTowelsPodcast
https://www.instagram.com/foldingtowels_podcast/
Theme Music: Simon Pettersson "All Alone" (2020), Licensed use through Audio Hero Inc

Dec 3, 2024 • 38min
Episode 079: Should You Sell Products In Your Massage Clinic?
In this episode of The Folding Towels Podcast, Jackie and David dive into the sometimes divisive topic of selling products in your massage clinic. Do you need to sell products? Not at all. But for therapists who choose to, selling the right products can boost income without the physical strain of more massage sessions.
They explore the importance of aligning products with your clinic’s values and niche, from spiky balls and TMJ tools to nurturing bath salts and festive aromatherapy. Learn how to avoid common pitfalls, like dead stock or feeling pressured to hard-sell, and hear tips on sourcing and pricing products effectively.
David also shares his lessons learned (50 heat bags, anyone?) and Jackie talks about her passion for magnesium products. Whether you're new to selling or looking to refine your approach, this episode offers practical advice to help you sell with confidence and integrity.
Tune in and discover if product sales are right for your clinic!
** Support the Show **
If you have gotten value from the show, consider sending a small token of appreciation our way:
https://buymeacoffee.com/foldingtowelspodcast
*** Connect with Jackie and David ***
Do you want to reach out to us? Head to our Website and fill in the contact form.
https://foldingtowelspodcast.com.au
Find us on Facebook and on Instagram
https://www.facebook.com/FoldingTowelsPodcast
https://www.instagram.com/foldingtowels_podcast/
Theme Music: Simon Pettersson "All Alone" (2020), Licensed use through Audio Hero Inc

Nov 26, 2024 • 55min
Episode 078: Showing Up When You’re Running on Empty
Feeling the weight of the year as December looms? You’re not alone! In this episode, we dive into the chaos, exhaustion, and all-too-familiar "blah" vibes that hit hard at the end of the year. David and Jackie get real about navigating burnout, from managing financial pressures to dealing with compassion fatigue and those pesky energy vampires in your schedule.
We share tips on scheduling meaningful breaks, finding hobbies that spark joy, and sneaking in those little rewards that keep you going. Plus, we explore how to shake things up at work, refine your client list, and reconnect with your passion for what you do. Whether you’re struggling to keep up or just feeling a bit meh, this episode will remind you that it’s okay to prioritise yourself and have a little fun along the way.
So grab a cuppa (or a glass of wine—perhaps not if you're driving), settle in, and let’s tackle that end-of-year slump together!
** Support the Show **
If you have gotten value from the show, consider sending a small token of appreciation our way:
https://buymeacoffee.com/foldingtowelspodcast
*** Connect with Jackie and David ***
Do you want to reach out to us? Head to our Website and fill in the contact form.
https://foldingtowelspodcast.com.au
Find us on Facebook and on Instagram
https://www.facebook.com/FoldingTowelsPodcast
https://www.instagram.com/foldingtowels_podcast/
Theme Music: Simon Pettersson "All Alone" (2020), Licensed use through Audio Hero Inc

Nov 19, 2024 • 1h 28min
Episode 077: Massage Meets Research: Building an Evidence Base for Massage
In this enlightening episode of the Folding Towels Podcast, Jackie and David dive deep into the world of massage therapy research with three inspiring guest speakers: Ronna Moore, Dr. Jan Douglass, and Dr. Sarah Fogarty. Together, they discuss how therapists can engage with research, the value of case studies, the limitations of traditional research paradigms, and the growing recognition of massage as a legitimate and evidence-based healthcare practice.
Whether you're a seasoned therapist or just starting out, this episode offers a wealth of knowledge to inspire your journey into the research world.
Ronna Moore
Ronna kicks off the conversation by highlighting the many ways therapists can engage with research without needing a formal academic pathway. She explains the value of small-scale research projects like case studies and quality improvement initiatives in shaping practice and contributing to the broader massage community. Rona introduces concepts such as grey literature, which includes blogs, trade journals, and conference posters, as accessible platforms for sharing insights. Her passion for fostering curiosity and critical thinking in therapists shines through, making her insights both practical and motivating.
Dr. Jan Douglass
Dr. Jan Douglass delves into the complexities and limitations of traditional research paradigms, particularly for chronic conditions and massage therapy. She discusses how the reliance on randomized controlled trials often overlooks the nuanced, individualized nature of therapeutic work. Drawing on her vast experience with lymphatic research and global health initiatives, Dr. Douglass explains the importance of exploring alternative research designs that capture real-world efficacy. Her call to embrace practice-based evidence and case studies is a compelling reminder that meaningful research is not one-size-fits-all.
Dr. Sarah Fogarty
Dr. Sarah Fogarty brings the episode to a close with her firsthand experiences as a massage researcher with over 40 publications. She shares her journey into research, highlighting the challenges and rewards of building a career in an underfunded and emerging field. Dr. Fogarty emphasizes the role of mixed-methods research in capturing both quantitative outcomes and the therapeutic relationship at the heart of massage. She also provides practical advice for therapists interested in research, from conducting case studies to navigating ethics and grant applications. Her passion for advancing massage therapy through evidence-based insights is both inspiring and actionable.
** Support the Show **
If you have gotten value from the show, consider sending a small token of appreciation our way:
https://buymeacoffee.com/foldingtowelspodcast
*** Connect with Jackie and David ***
Do you want to reach out to us? Head to our Website and fill in the contact form.
https://foldingtowelspodcast.com.au
Find us on Facebook and on Instagram
https://www.facebook.com/FoldingTowelsPodcast
https://www.instagram.com/foldingtowels_podcast/
Theme Music: Simon Pettersson "All Alone" (2020), Licensed use through Audio Hero Inc

Nov 12, 2024 • 32min
Episode 076: The How, Why and When of Discounting
In this episode, David and Jackie dive into the complex topic of discounting for massage therapists, discussing when it makes sense and how to avoid undervaluing your services. They share practical strategies, like referral discounts, loyalty programs, and limited-time promotions, to attract clients without compromising your worth. David recounts real-life examples where thoughtful discounting helped his business, while Jackie emphasizes the importance of clear goals and strategy. They highlight the risks of platforms like Groupon, which can attract deal-chasing clients rather than loyal ones. By communicating openly with clients and using tools like email marketing, they suggest ways to build a strong client base without relying heavily on discounts. This episode offers valuable insights for therapists wanting to grow sustainably, focusing on strategies that enhance value over cutting costs.
** Support the Show **
If you have gotten value from the show, consider sending a small token of appreciation our way:
https://buymeacoffee.com/foldingtowelspodcast
*** Connect with Jackie and David ***
Do you want to reach out to us? Head to our Website and fill in the contact form.
https://foldingtowelspodcast.com.au
Find us on Facebook and on Instagram
https://www.facebook.com/FoldingTowelsPodcast
https://www.instagram.com/foldingtowels_podcast/
Theme Music: Simon Pettersson "All Alone" (2020), Licensed use through Audio Hero Inc

Nov 5, 2024 • 38min
Episode 075: Insights on Working Whilst Pregnant
Jackie and David dive into the realities of working as a massage therapist while pregnant. Drawing on Jackie’s personal experiences and David’s insights, they explore the unique challenges pregnancy brings to the profession, from managing morning sickness and adapting work routines to handling client communication and planning maternity leave.
Did you know that Jackie was still massaging even in the early stages of labour? With candid stories, practical advice, and a touch of humour, this episode sheds light on how to maintain well-being and professional standards through a life-changing time.
Whether you're self-employed or working within a clinic, tune in for thoughtful guidance and relatable insights that will help you navigate the path of balancing pregnancy and practice with confidence.
** Support the Show **
If you have gotten value from the show, consider sending a small token of appreciation our way:
https://buymeacoffee.com/foldingtowelspodcast
*** Connect with Jackie and David ***
Do you want to reach out to us? Head to our Website and fill in the contact form.
https://foldingtowelspodcast.com.au
Find us on Facebook and on Instagram
https://www.facebook.com/FoldingTowelsPodcast
https://www.instagram.com/foldingtowels_podcast/
Theme Music: Simon Pettersson "All Alone" (2020), Licensed use through Audio Hero Inc

Oct 31, 2024 • 46min
Episode 074: Certified Practitioner Program - Raising Standards in Massage Therapy
David and Jackie sit down with Charlotte Keane and Paul Averill, non-executive directors of Massage Myotherapy Australia, to discuss the Certified Practitioner program. This certification, designed to ISO9001 standards, aims to bring consistency and professionalism to massage therapy in Australia by establishing a clear standard for qualified practitioners. In the wake of industry changes and public confusion surrounding massage services, Charlotte and Paul delve into the certification process, the benefits it brings to therapists and clients alike, and how it distinguishes trained professionals. Join us for an in-depth look at how certification can elevate the massage therapy industry and ensure public trust.
To Learn More about the Certified Practitioner Program head to https://www.massagemyotherapy.com.au/Certification
** Support the Show **
If you have gotten value from the show, consider sending a small token of appreciation our way:
https://buymeacoffee.com/foldingtowelspodcast
*** Connect with Jackie and David ***
Do you want to reach out to us? Head to our Website and fill in the contact form.
https://foldingtowelspodcast.com.au
Find us on Facebook and on Instagram
https://www.facebook.com/FoldingTowelsPodcast
https://www.instagram.com/foldingtowels_podcast/
Theme Music: Simon Pettersson "All Alone" (2020), Licensed use through Audio Hero Inc

Oct 22, 2024 • 1h 9min
Episode 073: Caring for the Whole Person: Ronna Moore on Palliative Massage
Jackie and David reconnect with Ronna Moore to explore the profound impact of palliative massage. Ronna shares her extensive experience working in palliative care, discussing the importance of addressing not just physical symptoms but also the emotional, psychological, and spiritual needs of clients. She delves into the misconceptions around end-of-life care, the unique challenges therapists face, and the essential role of massage in enhancing quality of life. This conversation touches on the delicate balance of providing compassionate care while managing the emotional demands of working with vulnerable clients. Ronna’s insights offer valuable guidance for massage therapists considering this path and anyone interested in the holistic approach to palliative care. Tune in for a thought-provoking discussion on the role of massage in supporting individuals and their carers during life’s most challenging moments.
** Support the Show **
If you have gotten value from the show, consider sending a small token of appreciation our way:
https://buymeacoffee.com/foldingtowelspodcast
*** Connect with Jackie and David ***
Do you want to reach out to us? Head to our Website and fill in the contact form.
https://foldingtowelspodcast.com.au
Find us on Facebook and on Instagram
https://www.facebook.com/FoldingTowelsPodcast
https://www.instagram.com/foldingtowels_podcast/
Theme Music: Simon Pettersson "All Alone" (2020), Licensed use through Audio Hero Inc