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Pregnancy and postpartum clients need more than careful positioning—they need massage therapists who understand what they may be experiencing physically, emotionally, and socially.

In this episode of the Handcrafted Therapy Podcast, Julie Alexander speaks with massage therapist and educator Marissa Emery about providing confident, compassionate massage care during pregnancy and postpartum. Marissa shares how her own experiences with motherhood and postpartum depression shaped her specialty, Mama Needs Massage, and inspired her to educate other massage therapists.

Julie and Marissa discuss first-trimester massage, client communication, safe positioning, postpartum recovery, perinatal mental health, and the importance of listening without judgment. They also explore how massage therapists can build a pregnancy and postpartum specialty by connecting with parent groups, doulas, midwives, lactation consultants, pelvic-floor therapists, and other trusted community providers.

Topics Discussed

• How massage therapists can confidently support pregnancy and postpartum clients
• First-trimester massage, positioning, draping, and client communication
• The physical and emotional realities of postpartum recovery
• Supporting perinatal mental health through listening, validation, and trusted resources
• Building a pregnancy and postpartum massage specialty through community partnerships
• Creating referrals with doulas, midwives, lactation consultants, and pelvic-floor therapists

More About Marissa Emery

Marissa Emery, LMT, has practiced massage therapy since 2009 and specializes in supporting clients through pregnancy, postpartum recovery, and motherhood. Her personal experiences with pregnancy, birth, postpartum depression, and massage therapy inspired her to create Mama Needs Massage and dedicate her work to perinatal care.

In addition to her massage practice, Marissa provides continuing education for massage professionals. Her training helps therapists understand the physical, emotional, mental, and social realities of pregnancy and postpartum life while developing the communication, positioning, and hands-on skills needed to serve clients safely and confidently.

Connect With Marissa

• Website: https://www.marissaemerylmt.com/
• On-Demand Classes: https://www.marissaemerylmt.com/on-demand-classes
• Massage Services: https://www.marissaemerylmt.com/get-massage

Contact me for a free sample:
email - [email protected]
text/call -  972-658-7722

Order it online: handcraftedtherapysupplies.com 

Visit our store:
3303 North Central Expressway #240
Plano, TX 75023

Contact me for a free sample:
email - [email protected]
text/call -  972-658-7722

Order it online: handcraftedtherapysupplies.com 

Visit our store:
3303 North Central Expressway #240
Plano, TX 75023

Check out our Tales from the Table Book (coming soon) or Submit a story here

Connect with Julie Alexander and Handcrafted Therapy Join our email list! https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/su/HKY9uFv 

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

Join the Handcrafted Therapy Facebook community at: https://www.facebook.com/handcraftedtherapy Or on Handcrafted Therapy’s YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@handcraftedtherapy 

Send us Fan Mail

• Ep. 39: Unlocking the Secrets to a Successful Massage Therapy Practice with Cindy Slack
• Ep. 35: Building a Successful Massage Business with Valarie Karpiel
• Ep. 6: How to Grow Your Massage Therapy Practice Through Adaptability and Relationship Building With Steve Cartlidge

If you’ve ever wondered how some massage therapists stay booked, avoid burnout, and keep loving the work for decades, this episode is for you. Julie sits down with massage therapist, clinic owner, mentor, and podcast host Krista Dicks for a thoughtful conversation about building a sustainable career in massage therapy. Together, they explore how the right work environment, authentic client relationships, strong referral habits, and values-based marketing can support both longevity and fulfillment. Krista also shares insights on mentorship, confidence, taking intentional pauses, and why small, genuine actions often have the biggest impact on business growth. 

•  Preventing burnout by working in the right environment 
•  Building referrals through genuine client relationships 
•  Staying authentic in your massage practice 
•  Mentorship, confidence, and career longevity 
•  Local networking and community-based marketing 
•  Taking breaks without guilt 
•  Using empathy to strengthen client trust 
•  Continuing education as a tool for growth

• Learn more about The Radical Massage Therapist
• Follow @heradicalmassagetherapist on Instagram
• Listen to the Radical Massage Therapist Podcast
• Visit Align Massage Therapy

Krista Dicks, RMT is a Registered Massage Therapist in Ottawa, Ontario, a clinic owner, mentor, Pilates instructor, and host of The Radical Massage Therapist Podcast. She has been practicing massage therapy since 2006 and is known for helping massage therapists build careers that are both sustainable and fulfilling. Krista shares insights on burnout prevention, confidence, mentorship, clinic ownership, and creating a massage career that supports a great life as well as great work. 

Contact me for a free sample:
email - [email protected]
text/call -  972-658-7722

Order it online: handcraftedtherapysupplies.com 

Visit our store:
3303 North Central Expressway #240
Plano, TX 75023

Contact me for a free sample:
email - [email protected]
text/call -  972-658-7722

Order it online: handcraftedtherapysupplies.com 

Visit our store:
3303 North Central Expressway #240
Plano, TX 75023

Check out our Tales from the Table Book (coming soon) or Submit a story here

Connect with Julie Alexander and Handcrafted Therapy Join our email list! https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/su/HKY9uFv 

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

Join the Handcrafted Therapy Facebook community at: https://www.facebook.com/handcraftedtherapy Or on Handcrafted Therapy’s YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@handcraftedtherapy 

Send us Fan Mail

Massage therapists have the best stories—and now there’s a book to prove it. In this solo episode, host Julie Alexander announces Tales From the Table, a crowd-sourced collection of real-world stories from licensed massage therapists. Julie shares what kinds of submissions she’s seeking, simple guidelines to keep the project professional, and why showcasing authentic experiences can shift public perception of massage therapy from “spa day” to evidence-informed health care. You’ll learn exactly how to submit your story (typed or recorded), how contributors will be credited, and how this book aims to both educate the public and amplify therapists’ businesses.

• Why a shared story collection can change how the public understands massage therapy
• What to submit: funny, heartfelt, and lesson-rich client or practice stories
• Professional guidelines (keep it clean, ethical, and aligned with licensed practice)
• Credit options for contributors: named feature with links or anonymous
• How the book will promote therapists and strengthen industry collaboration

Submit your story here

Contact me for a free sample:
email - [email protected]
text/call -  972-658-7722

Order it online: handcraftedtherapysupplies.com 

Visit our store:
3303 North Central Expressway #240
Plano, TX 75023

Check out our Tales from the Table Book (coming soon) or Submit a story here

Connect with Julie Alexander and Handcrafted Therapy Join our email list! https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/su/HKY9uFv 

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

Join the Handcrafted Therapy Facebook community at: https://www.facebook.com/handcraftedtherapy Or on Handcrafted Therapy’s YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@handcraftedtherapy 

Send us Fan Mail

Curious about how homeopathy can address everything from everyday stress to chronic illness and even provide support during cancer care? In this insightful episode of the Handcrafted Therapy Podcast, homeopathic practitioner Stephanie Kononovich joins host Julie Alexander to demystify the world of homeopathics for both therapists and everyday listeners. You’ll discover what homeopathy is, how diluted remedies actually work energetically in the body, and why it’s more than just a “placebo effect.”

Stephanie shares stories from her own practice treating infants, children, and adults for a wide range of conditions, explains the relationship between emotional trauma, physical health, and chronic symptoms, and discusses when to turn to homeopathy versus traditional medicine. You’ll learn about integrative approaches for massage therapists, safety and contraindications, real-world tips for choosing effective remedies, and what to look for in a qualified practitioner.

If you’re curious about natural health solutions, want to empower your clients with holistic options, or are seeking gentle alternatives to pharmaceuticals, this episode is a must-listen. Unlock the science, dispel the myths, and find holistic inspiration for your own health journey.

Topics Discussed in this Episode:

• Practical uses of homeopathic remedies
• Emotional wellness through natural therapies
• Integrating homeopathy with massage therapy
• Homeopathic approaches to chronic conditions
• Addressing stress and gut health

About Stephanie Kononovich​

• Find a Homeopathic practitioner
• Sign up for Stephanie's class on Oct 18 at Handcrafted Therapy
• Book a service with Stephanie

View extended shownotes here

Contact me for a free sample:
email - [email protected]
text/call -  972-658-7722

Order it online: handcraftedtherapysupplies.com 

Visit our store:
3303 North Central Expressway #240
Plano, TX 75023

Contact me for a free sample:
email - [email protected]
text/call -  972-658-7722

Order it online: handcraftedtherapysupplies.com 

Visit our store:
3303 North Central Expressway #240
Plano, TX 75023

Check out our Tales from the Table Book (coming soon) or Submit a story here

Connect with Julie Alexander and Handcrafted Therapy Join our email list! https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/su/HKY9uFv 

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

Join the Handcrafted Therapy Facebook community at: https://www.facebook.com/handcraftedtherapy Or on Handcrafted Therapy’s YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@handcraftedtherapy 

Send us Fan Mail

Ready to unlock your unique power as a massage therapist and eliminate the fear of competition for good? In this uplifting solo episode of the Handcrafted Therapy Podcast, host Julie Alexander reveals why every massage practitioner is truly one of a kind, and how your individual story, body, and skills make you irreplaceable in the wellness world.

Julie dives into the importance of embracing your personal experiences—good, bad, and everything in between—to connect authentically with clients and deliver deeper healing. She shares practical tips for building confidence, marketing your special strengths, and why sharing knowledge makes you even more trusted and successful (not less!). Plus, Julie offers inspiring advice on self-compassion, continued education, and fostering community over rivalry.

Whether you're a seasoned therapist or just starting your practice, this episode will empower you to celebrate your uniqueness, support your peers, and step fully into your value. Tune in and rediscover the joy of being your true self in the massage industry!

Topics Discussed in this Episode:

• Unique qualifications in massage therapy
• Personal experience shaping client care
• Building confidence as a therapist
• Finding your massage therapy niche
• Collaboration over competition mindset

View extended shownotes here

Contact me for a free sample:
email - [email protected]
text/call -  972-658-7722

Order it online: handcraftedtherapysupplies.com 

Visit our store:
3303 North Central Expressway #240
Plano, TX 75023

Check out our Tales from the Table Book (coming soon) or Submit a story here

Connect with Julie Alexander and Handcrafted Therapy Join our email list! https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/su/HKY9uFv 

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

Join the Handcrafted Therapy Facebook community at: https://www.facebook.com/handcraftedtherapy Or on Handcrafted Therapy’s YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@handcraftedtherapy 

Send us Fan Mail

Ready to unlock the secrets behind building a thriving massage therapy business, mastering unique bodywork modalities, and finding your dream career niche? In this inspiring episode, Louisiana AMTA Chapter President and seasoned massage therapist Candy Welch joins host Julie Alexander to share her journey from business professional to successful studio owner, educator, and community connector.

Discover how Candy grew her bustling downtown practice, why craniosacral therapy became her signature offering, and the networking strategies that helped her become a local leader. From navigating career transitions and supporting families to teaching students how to find their own specialty, Candy offers actionable tips and candid stories—including some hilarious moments from the massage table!

Whether you’re a therapist looking for your professional edge, an aspiring business owner, or simply curious about the world of holistic health, this episode is packed with wisdom, encouragement, and real-world advice to help you succeed and stand out. Tune in now for motivation, laughter, and a celebration of massage therapy’s powerful role in community wellness.

Topics Discussed in this Episode:

• Building a successful massage practice
• Networking with local business associations
• Educating clients on craniosacral therapy
• Finding your niche in massage therapy
• Integrating multiple modalities for clients

View extended shownotes here

Contact me for a free sample:
email - [email protected]
text/call -  972-658-7722

Order it online: handcraftedtherapysupplies.com 

Visit our store:
3303 North Central Expressway #240
Plano, TX 75023

Contact me for a free sample:
email - [email protected]
text/call -  972-658-7722

Order it online: handcraftedtherapysupplies.com 

Visit our store:
3303 North Central Expressway #240
Plano, TX 75023

Check out our Tales from the Table Book (coming soon) or Submit a story here

Connect with Julie Alexander and Handcrafted Therapy Join our email list! https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/su/HKY9uFv 

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

Join the Handcrafted Therapy Facebook community at: https://www.facebook.com/handcraftedtherapy Or on Handcrafted Therapy’s YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@handcraftedtherapy 

Send us Fan Mail

Dive into the transformative power of energy and connection in the world of massage therapy! In this insightful episode of the Handcrafted Therapy Podcast, Julie Alexander sits down with Allison Denney to explore the unique journey of finding passion in massage without the need for a dramatic backstory. Discover how Allison, known for her engaging Rebel Massage content, believes in redefining rules and boundaries within the therapy community, emphasizing personal growth and authenticity.

Listeners will learn about the unexpected parallels between money and energy in therapy, along with practical advice on building a sustainable massage practice that thrives on connecting with personal values and the community. Allison also shares her approach to content creation, encouraging therapists to stay true to themselves and embrace their unique quirks.

Whether you’re a seasoned massage therapist or new to the field, this episode offers a refreshing perspective on how authenticity, energy, and community can shape a fulfilling and dynamic career in massage therapy. Don’t miss this inspiring conversation filled with actionable insights and tips for those looking to expand their horizons in the world of therapy.

Topics discussed in this episode:

• How to embrace unique characteristics in massage therapy practice
• The significance of asking questions and respecting rules
• How massage therapy paths diverge and evolve
• Why genuine connections drive community growth
• How Rebel Massage inspires creativity and innovation
• The impact of reflecting inward and outward in professional growth
• How money and massage are both forms of energy
• Why crafting engaging content matters for therapists
• How storytelling attracts individuals to the massage industry
• Why adapting and exploring ensures career longevity

View extended shownotes here

Contact me for a free sample:
email - [email protected]
text/call -  972-658-7722

Order it online: handcraftedtherapysupplies.com 

Visit our store:
3303 North Central Expressway #240
Plano, TX 75023

Contact me for a free sample:
email - [email protected]
text/call -  972-658-7722

Order it online: handcraftedtherapysupplies.com 

Visit our store:
3303 North Central Expressway #240
Plano, TX 75023

Check out our Tales from the Table Book (coming soon) or Submit a story here

Connect with Julie Alexander and Handcrafted Therapy Join our email list! https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/su/HKY9uFv 

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

Join the Handcrafted Therapy Facebook community at: https://www.facebook.com/handcraftedtherapy Or on Handcrafted Therapy’s YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@handcraftedtherapy 

Send us Fan Mail

Discover how embracing innovative massage techniques can rejuvenate your therapy career and bring profound healing to your clients. Join Julie Alexander, host of the Handcrafted Therapy Podcast, as she delves into the art and science of therapeutic bodywork with guest Marnie Matyus. In this episode, Marnie shares her fascinating journey from corporate instruction to becoming a sought-after instructor of transformative massage courses. You'll learn about the life-changing potential of classes on TMJ disorder, somatic bodywork, myofascial techniques, and more. 

Explore how Marnie's gentle, intuitive approach to intraoral and fascial massage transforms client experiences, inducing both physical relief and emotional release. This compelling discussion also highlights the power of investing in yourself through continuous education and practices like self-care and receiving bodywork. 

Whether you're a seasoned therapist looking to innovate your practice, or newly licensed and eager to expand your skillset, this episode offers valuable insights into the holistic power of bodywork. Discover the exciting future of therapeutic massage and the vital role emotional and somatic understanding play in client healing. Tune in to be inspired and empowered to elevate your massage therapy practice.  

In this episode, Julie and Marni discuss: 

• Strategies for students, including physical readiness and open-minded learning. 
• The role of ongoing learning in revitalizing massage therapy practices. 
• Facilitating Emotional Release in Somatic Bodywork 
• Somatic Bodywork Techniques Introduction 
• Class details on somatic bodywork benefits for clients and practitioners. 
• Importance of myofascial techniques in massage therapy practice. 
• Understanding Pelvis Alignment 
• Comprehensive Cervical Spine Techniques 

View Extended Shownotes here

Contact me for a free sample:
email - [email protected]
text/call -  972-658-7722

Order it online: handcraftedtherapysupplies.com 

Visit our store:
3303 North Central Expressway #240
Plano, TX 75023

Contact me for a free sample:
email - [email protected]
text/call -  972-658-7722

Order it online: handcraftedtherapysupplies.com 

Visit our store:
3303 North Central Expressway #240
Plano, TX 75023

Check out our Tales from the Table Book (coming soon) or Submit a story here

Connect with Julie Alexander and Handcrafted Therapy Join our email list! https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/su/HKY9uFv 

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

Join the Handcrafted Therapy Facebook community at: https://www.facebook.com/handcraftedtherapy Or on Handcrafted Therapy’s YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@handcraftedtherapy 

Send us Fan Mail

Unlock the secrets of integrating massage therapy with advanced physical therapy techniques in this enlightening episode of the Handcrafted Therapy Podcast. Join Julie Alexander as she hosts Matthew Gavzy, a licensed massage therapist and physical therapist assistant with an exceptional range of expertise. Discover how Matthew bridges the gap between these two fields to empower therapists to step up their game in medical massage practices. 

Matthew dives into his passion for massage therapy and explains how he utilizes his physical therapy knowledge to enhance therapeutic outcomes. He discusses unique educational offerings that equip massage therapists with the skills to communicate effectively with healthcare professionals, understand surgical procedures, and implement advanced taping techniques. Listen in as they explore the challenges and triumphs of working with professional and amateur athletes, plus the importance of mastering anatomy for credibility in the medical community. 

Whether you're a seasoned massage therapist or new to the field, this episode delivers practical insights and inspiration to elevate your practice. 

In this episode, Julie and Matthew discuss:  

• Building trust with clients through sports massage 
• Educational courses on orthopedic procedures and stability taping 
• Bridging communication between massage therapists and doctors 

View extended shownotes here 

Contact me for a free sample:
email - [email protected]
text/call -  972-658-7722

Order it online: handcraftedtherapysupplies.com 

Visit our store:
3303 North Central Expressway #240
Plano, TX 75023

Contact me for a free sample:
email - [email protected]
text/call -  972-658-7722

Order it online: handcraftedtherapysupplies.com 

Visit our store:
3303 North Central Expressway #240
Plano, TX 75023

Check out our Tales from the Table Book (coming soon) or Submit a story here

Connect with Julie Alexander and Handcrafted Therapy Join our email list! https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/su/HKY9uFv 

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

Join the Handcrafted Therapy Facebook community at: https://www.facebook.com/handcraftedtherapy Or on Handcrafted Therapy’s YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@handcraftedtherapy 

Send us Fan Mail

Unlock the incredible benefits of CBD and cannabis therapy with our latest episode! Maggy Troup joins host Julie Alexander to debunk stigmas and dive deep into how these powerful plants can transform your health routine. Discover the rich history and medicinal potentials that CBD offers for pain relief and muscle relaxation. 

From understanding the endocannabinoid system to learning about high-quality product selection, Maggy shares invaluable insights and tips. We also discuss how CBD enhances massage therapy, ensuring the best outcomes for client care. Plus, get introduced to Handcrafted Therapy’s new CBD product line and an exciting educational course collaboration. 

Whether you're a massage therapist, a curious consumer, or a wellness enthusiast, this episode equips you with essential knowledge to make informed choices about CBD. Don’t miss out on this enlightening conversation about revolutionizing pain management and holistic health with CBD! 

In this episode, Julie and Maggy discuss:  

• Benefits of CBD in Massage Therapy 
• Education and Normalization of CBD 
• Choosing Reliable CBD Products 
• CBD's Interaction with the Body 
• Addressing Client Concerns 

View Extended Shownotes here 

More About Maggy Troup 

• Follow Maggy on Facebook 
• Learn more about Maggy 

I’m Maggy. For over 20 years, I’ve been a bodyworker and educator. I feel so lucky to be here; everyday, I feel more connected to the work that I do. What started as a way to support myself has blossomed into a passion to understand the human body and wellness. With a degree in Kinesiology, I’ve delved deep into Anatomy and Biomechanics, always seeking to understand how our bodies move, heal, and respond. This curiosity has led me to specialize in sports massage, medical massage, and orthopedic neuromuscular feedback—all focused on helping people reconnect with their bodies and find relief from chronic pain. 

I’ve had the privilege of teaching foundational courses for massage therapists, including advanced anatomy, kinesiology, and sports massage. Now, as a nationally certified continuing education providor, I get to help other massage therapists thrive in their careers through offering advanced and foundational classes and coaching. 

My passion extends beyond just my own practice. I’m committed to giving back to the massage community by raising the standards of both the profession and its education. Through my volunteer work with the American Massage Therapy Association (AMTA), I help bring therapists together, supporting their growth and advancement through higher education. 

When I’m not working, you’ll find me in the mountains, practicing yoga, or working out—anything that helps me stay grounded and connected to my own body. 

Contact me for a free sample:
email - [email protected]
text/call -  972-658-7722

Order it online: handcraftedtherapysupplies.com 

Visit our store:
3303 North Central Expressway #240
Plano, TX 75023

Contact me for a free sample:
email - [email protected]
text/call -  972-658-7722

Order it online: handcraftedtherapysupplies.com 

Visit our store:
3303 North Central Expressway #240
Plano, TX 75023

Check out our Tales from the Table Book (coming soon) or Submit a story here

Connect with Julie Alexander and Handcrafted Therapy Join our email list! https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/su/HKY9uFv 

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

Join the Handcrafted Therapy Facebook community at: https://www.facebook.com/handcraftedtherapy Or on Handcrafted Therapy’s YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@handcraftedtherapy