The STA Clinician Podcast

By Sports Therapy AssociationHealth & Fitness Education

The STA Clinician Podcast episodes

September 10, 2025Ep.254 'Evidence Informed Practice In Massage Therapy' with Anna Maria Mazzieri of The ST School
We continue our countdown to the STA South West Conference happening in Exmouth this September 20th and 21st, in collaboration with the ST School and Hands ON Hub. Host Matt Phillips is joined by Director of The ST School Anna Maria Mazzieri, who discusses what evidence-informed practice means in Massage Therapy.
The episode explores topics including how trauma and chronic pain interact, the somatic effects of touch, and practical, evidence‑based approaches to working with scars. Anna Maria talk about the online CPD Webinar offered by The ST School: "Evidence Based Practice in Massage Therapy: What Social Media Doesn’t Tell You!" (see link in notes), including some of the surprises & benefits that attendees typically experience. Also discussed is the value of reflective CPD, and how therapists can better communicate, debate and apply research in clinic and online forums.
Anna Maria Mazzieri is giving the following presentations at the conference in September:
Sat Sep 20th 3.10pm Main Theatre: "When Pain Echoes Trauma & When Massage Echoes Embodiment"
Sun Sep 21st 9.00am Breakout Room: "Massage & Manual Therapy for Scars"
Full details & conference tickets are available at https://thestschool.co.uk/hands-on-hub-sta-conference-2025/. STA members have a discount code which can be found in the latest STA Newsletter & Facebook Members page.
Useful Links
CPD Webinar "Evidence Based Practice in Massage Therapy"
Website: The ST School
Conference Details & Tickets
Next Podcast Episode:
Tuesday September 16th 8pm: James Earls, Writer, Lecturer & Bodyworker, and founder of Born to Move.
Interested in joining the STA?
Use the code PODCAST25 to get 3 MONTHS EXTRA when you join for a single year! In other words, £75 will get you 15 months instead of 12! Only valid for NEW members. If you are Level 3 (qualified after 2014) make sure you choose the ‘associate member’ option.
54 min
September 04, 2025Ep.253 'Countdown To STA South West Conference' with speakers Dr Claire Minshull & Serena Simmons
In Ep.253, we continue our countdown to the STA South West Conference that is happening in Exmouth this September 20th and 21st, in collaboration with the ST School and Hands ON Hub. Host Matt Phillips is joined by conference speakers Dr Claire Minshull, Rehab & Conditioning Specialist & Founder of Get Back To Sport, and Serena Simmons, Chartered Psychologist & Founder of The Psychology School.
Together they discuss the importance & value of clinicians combining exercise, education and psychological skills in practice, with strategies to improve patient adherence and practical takeaways from real case studies. For details on Serena Simmons ‘Behaviour Change Psychology for Therapists’ course and Dr Claire Minshull's 'Strength & Conditioning for Therapists' course, see website links below.

At the conference, Dr Claire Minshull will be presenting on Saturday Sep 20th 10.30am in The Main Theatre: "Strength & Conditioning For Preserving Joint Health". Serena Simmons at 12.15pm: "Beyond the Treatment Couch: The Hidden Power of Words, Belief, and Behaviour". Then, at 1.40pm, Claire and Serena will be joining each other in the Breakout Room to deliver "Why Rehab Needs A Joint Approach".
Full details & conference tickets are available at Hands On Hub & STA Conference 2025 - The ST School. STA members have a discount code which can be found in the latest STA Newsletter & Facebook Members page.
Useful Links
Get Back Top Sport Website
Instagram: @GetBackToSport
The Psychology School Website
Instagram: @ThePsychologySchool.co
Next Podcast Episodes:
Tuesday September 9th 8pm: Anna Maria Mazzieri, Soft Tissue Therapist & Director of The ST School.
Tuesday September 16th 8pm: James Earls, Writer, Lecturer & Bodyworker, and founder of Born to Move.
Interested in joining the STA?
Use the code PODCAST25 to get 3 MONTHS EXTRA when you join for a single year! In other words, £75 will get you 15 months instead of 12! Only valid for NEW members. If you are Level 3 (qualified after 2014) make sure you choose the ‘associate member’ option.
1 hr 1 min
August 27, 2025Ep.252 'Countdown To STA South West Conference with speakers Michelle Lyons & Siobhan O'Donovan'
In Ep.252, we start our countdown to the STA South West Conference that is happening in Exmouth this September 20th and 21st, in collaboration with the ST School and Hands ON Hub. It’s going to be an amazing weekend of presentations, workshops and networking, so over the next 4 weeks we have invited some of the speakers to be guests on this podcast, to introduce themselves to you and discuss what they will be delivering at the conference.
We start in this episode with Michelle Lyons, Women's Health Physiotherapist & Founder of Celebrate Muliebrity, and & Siobhan O’Donovan, aka the Booby Physio & founder of PostureFitting. Together they discuss practical strategies for clinicians working with female athletes, including the menstrual cycle as a powerful diagnostic tool, the importance of correctly fitted sports bras, pelvic health considerations, and keeping girls and women active across the lifespan. Check out this episode for evidence-informed guidance, expect practical tips and ways clinicians can better support female clients.
Up & Coming Podcast Episodes:
Wednesday September 3rd 8pm
Dr Claire Minshull, Rehab & Conditioning Specialist & Founder of Get Back To Sport, and Serena Simmons, Chartered Psychologist & Founder of The Psychology School.
Tuesday September 9th 8pm
Anna Maria Mazzieri, Soft Tissue Therapist & Director of The ST School.
Tuesday September 16th 8pm
James Earls, , Writer, Lecturer & Bodyworker, and founder of Born to Move.
Full details & conference tickets are available at Hands On Hub & STA Conference 2025 - The ST School. There’s a Summer Discount available until the end of August AND a further discount code for STA members, which can be found in the STA Newsletter & Facebook Members page.
Useful Links
PostureFitting Website
Gals Against Gravity Workshop
PostureFitting on Facebook
Siobhan O'Donovan on LinkedIn
Celebrate Muliebrity Website and Podcast
Michelle Lyons on Facebook
Michelle Lyons On Instagram
Interested in joining the STA?
Use the code PODCAST25 to get 3 MONTHS EXTRA when you join for a single year! In other words, £75 will get you 15 months instead of 12! Only valid for NEW members. If you are Level 3 (qualified after 2014) make sure you choose the ‘associate member’ option.
1 hr 4 min
August 20, 2025Ep.251 'Social Media: Do Soft Tissue Therapists Really Need It?' - Reflection with Megan Jackson
In Ep.251 of the Sports Therapy Association Podcast, Megan Jackson, founder of Bodies By Merj, reflects on Ep.224 “Social Media: Do Soft Tissue Therapists Really Need It?” that was recorded back in January this year with guests Katie Bell and Daniel Lawrence.
Megan shares her personal journey into massage, and discusses how her marketing on Instagram in particular provides around 80% of her clients. Megan gives tips on how to create quality content, generate leads and also most importantly how to prevent burnout in the process. The episode also examines why touch and context matter so much in massage therapy, and how modern research is now slowly providing a framework & mechanism for the benefits that massage can bring.
Useful Links
Ep224 ‘Social Media: Do Soft Tissue Therapists Really Need It?’ with Katie Bell & Daniel Lawrence
Megan Jackson Website: Bodies By Merj
Megan Jackson Instagram: merjmassagestudio
STA South West Conference Details & Tickets
Countdown to the ‘STA South West Conference’
As of next week, we will be starting a countdown to the STA South West Conference that is happening in Exmouth this September 20th and 21st, in collaboration with the ST School and Hands ON Hub. It’s going to be an amazing weekend of presentations, workshops and networking, with speakers including Michelle Lyons, Dr Claire Minshull, Serena Simmons, James Earls, Siobhan O Donnell, Andy Hosgood, and many more.
Join us for a month of video podcast episodes with some of the conference speakers:
Tuesday August 26th 8pm - Michelle Lyons and Siobhan O Donovan.
Wednesday September 3rd 8pm - Dr Claire Minshull and Serena Simmons.
Tuesday September 9th 8pm - Anna Maria Mazzieri
Tuesday September 16th 8pm - James Earls.
Full details & conference tickets are available at thestschool.co.uk, There’s a Summer Discount available until the end of August AND a further discount code for STA members, which can be found in the STA Newsletter & Facebook Members page.
Interested in joining the STA?
Use the code PODCAST25 to get 3 MONTHS EXTRA when you join for a single year! In other words, £75 will get you 15 months instead of 12! Only valid for NEW members. If you are Level 3 (qualified after 2014) make sure you choose the ‘associate member’ option.
49 min
July 31, 2025Ep.250 'STA Catch Up' with guest Gary Benson, Founder of the STA
Welcome to Episode 250 of the Sports Therapy Association Podcast. In this special STA catch-up episode, host Matt Phillips is joined by STA founder Gary Benson to discuss the latest developments in the soft tissue therapy industry. This episode offers invaluable insights for both STA members and all soft tissue therapists seeking guidance and support.
The conversation delves into the importance of creating a supportive environment for therapists, highlighting the STA's efforts in providing resources such as weekly podcasts, coffee evening chats, and accountability sessions. Gary Benson shares his experiences and the association's initiatives in fostering collaboration within the industry, addressing the challenges related to outdated training narratives, and the complexities surrounding industry regulation.
This episode is a must-listen for anyone in the soft tissue therapy field looking to understand the current landscape, the ongoing efforts towards industry improvement, and the opportunities for professional growth and support through the STA.

Chapter Markers
00:00:17 - Welcome to The Sports Therapy Association Podcast
00:04:56 - Reflections on Facebook Groups
00:08:01 - The Role of Professional Associations
00:10:40 - Industry Challenges and Support
00:12:39 - Evolving Consultation Practices
00:29:12 - Membership Insights and Support
00:31:13 - Upcoming STA Conference: September 20th & 21st
00:34:46 - Insurance and Scope of Practice
00:39:56 - Barriers to Professional Title Protection
00:58:16 - Regulation of Training Providers
01:02:54 - Closing Thoughts and Next Episode
Interested in Joining The STA?
Use the code PODCAST25 to get you 3 months extra if you join for a single year. In other words, for just £75, this code will get you 15 months instead of 12. Only valid for NEW members, and if you are Level 3 (and qualified after 2014) please make sure you opt for ‘associate member’ when you join up.
1 hr 6 min
July 23, 2025 Ep.249 'Facebook Groups For Massage Therapists: Helpful or Hateful?' - Part 2 Panel Debate
Welcome to Episode 249 of the Sports Therapy Association podcast. In Part 1 of “Facebook Groups For Massage Therapists: Helpful or Hateful?” (Ep.247), host Matt Phillips was joined by a panel of therapists who gave us honest & frank examples of how when seeking help in a Facebook Support Group for Therapists, they were met with harsh & aggressive replies from more experienced therapists, to the extent that they felt the need to post anonymously, in fear of a cascade of judgement & harm to their business.
In this episode, Part 2, Matt invites a panel of experienced therapists to present the case that there is a real need for a clean-up in our industry, and though it may ruffle some feathers, Facebook Groups can be a breeding ground of misinformation that ultimately is doing harm to not just our industry but also the clients & patients paying for our services.
Listen now to this compelling discussion on the prevalent challenges within massage therapy and soft tissue therapy communities, particularly the misconceptions surrounding evidence-based practices. The panel explores the tensions caused by misinformation and propose solutions for creating more supportive and informed social media groups. Discover strategies to foster empathy, maintain professionalism, and promote continuous learning among therapists, for a healthier and more unified industry. Stay informed and inspired by listening to the full debate on how we can collectively move towards a more understanding & supportive community
Panel In This Episode
Cecily Hislop
• Sports Massage Therapist at southphoenixmassagetherapy
• Facebook: southphoenixmassagetherapy
Hannah Tabram
• Sports Massage Therapist
• Website: https://hannahtabram.co.uk/
• Facebook: HannahTabramSMT
• Instagram: @ hannahtabramsportsmassage
Stevie Barr
• Owner of Fit Thru Life
• Website: http://fit-thru-life.co.uk/
• Brand Ambassador at Intelligent Cycling
• Joint Creator of Scottish Therapists Group
• Instagram: @fit_thru_life
Gary Benson
• Founder of the STA
• Facebook: @STAGary
A heartfelt thank you to the panels of both Part 1 and Part 2 of this series. We sincerely hope these two episodes generate interest & reflection. If you have any feedback, please feel free to share in the YouTube comments section, or email [email protected].

Interested in Joining The STA?
Use the code PODCAST25 to get you 3 months extra if you join for a single year. In other words, for just £75, this code will get you 15 months instead of 12. Only valid for NEW members, and if you are Level 3 (and qualified after 2014) please make sure you opt for ‘associate member’ when you join up.
1 hr 4 min
July 16, 2025Ep.248 - Gait Analysis For Runners: A Modern Approach - Reflection with guest Sophie Gover
In Ep.248 of the Sports Therapy Association Podcast, we explore the intriguing world of Gait Analysis and its application in sports therapy. Host Matt Phillips is joined by Sophie Gover, founder of 'The Run Doctor UK', who delves into her inspiring journey from Sports Massage Therapy to evidence informed Gait Analysis.
Sophie reflects on how Ep.146 of the podcast “Gait Analysis For Runners: A Modern Approach”, recorded back in April 2023, affected her business set up, marketing and goal setting.
Listen as Sophie & Matt discuss the balance between biomechanics and holistic approaches, offering insights into overcoming challenges like imposter syndrome and integrating new methodologies.
This episode also revisits past lessons from gait analysis experts, offering a fresh perspective on personal and professional growth in the field. Whether you’re a seasoned therapist or new to the industry, this episode is packed with valuable advice and inspiration.
Useful Links
Ep.146 “Gait Analysis For Runners: A Modern Approach”
Sophie Gover Website: The Run Doctor UK
Sophie Gover on Instagram: @therundoctoruk
CPD Course: 'Gait Analysis For Runners: A Modern Approach'
The Hands On Hub & STA Conference
Join us at the STA South West Conference, taking place on September 20th & 21st in Exmouth, in collaboration with The ST School’s Hands On Hub. Tickets are now on sale at The ST School Website. There’s a Summer Discount Ticket AND a further discount code for STA members, which can be found in the STA Newsletter & Facebook Members page.
Interested in joining the STA?
Use the code PODCAST25 to get 3 MONTHS EXTRA when you join for a single year! In other words, £75 will get you 15 months instead of 12! Only valid for NEW members. If you are Level 3 (qualified after 2014) make sure you choose the ‘associate member’ option.
40 min
July 05, 2025 Ep.247 “Facebook Groups For Massage Therapists: Helpful or Hateful?” - Part 1 Panel Debate
Have you ever felt the need to post anonymously in a Facebook Group, in fear of judgement & retribution from more experienced therapists trying to promote evidence informed practice within the massage industry? Is this confrontation causing therapists to doubt themselves & leave the industry, or should we learn to be more resilient and see comments from other therapists as a way to develop our own practice & become better clinicians?

In this 13th episode of our ‘REFLECTION’ series, we bring you Part 1 of a 2 part panel debate on “Facebook Groups For Massage Therapists: Helpful or Hateful?” – an important topic that has been causing much discussion as of late, with many less experienced therapists in Facebook Groups feeling the need to post anonymously, in fear of a cascade of judgement & retribution from more experienced therapists trying to promote evidence informed practice within the massage & manual therapy industry.

In Part 1, we hear from a panel of therapists who feel that the judgement & criticism seen in some Facebook Groups is sometimes not constructive, and can in fact do harm to less experienced practitioners in our industry.
The conversation unfolds around two contrasting realities: the positive exchange of ideas and the harmful criticisms often met in these forums. The panelists bravely share stories of feeling belittled or unsupported, yet they also hint at the potential for these platforms to foster meaningful connections when managed with empathy and respect.
As the episode progresses, listeners are prompted to reflect on their own communication practices in digital spaces, encouraging a shift towards a more supportive and understanding online community. Join us for an insightful discussion that sheds light on the real challenges faced by massage therapists in the digital age.
Part 2 - Coming Soon!
In Part 2, recording & release date to be confirmed soon, we will be hearing from a panel of therapists who will present the case that there is a real need for a clean up in our industry, and though it may ruffle some feathers, Facebook Groups can be a breeding ground of misinfomation that ultimately is doing harm to not just our industry but also the cients & patients paying for our services.

* Apologies for the occasional sound distortion in this recording. We are working to rectify this.
Panel In This Episode
• Emma Bee
Sports Rehabilitation Clinician
Facebook: Bee Strong Injury & Rehabilitation Clinic
Instagram: @beestrong_clinic
• Michelle Hazell
Sports Massage Therapist
Instagram: @happy_minds_massage_therapy
• Fiona Wright
Sports Massage Therapist
Facebook: Fit & Well Massage Therapy
Instagram: @fiwright78
• Danielle Peters
Owner at Body Health Gatwick
Head Sports Therapist at Burgess Hill Town F.C.
A huge thank you to all members of the panel. We sincerely hope this episode generates interest & reflection. If you have any feedback, please feel free to share in the YouTube comments section, or email [email protected].

Would YOU like to be a 'Reflection' guest on the podcast?
If you would like to come on the show to chat about a past episode of the podcast, contact host Matt Phillips on social media, or email [email protected]. You will l need a pc or laptop (not your phone), with a quality internet connection (ethernet cable plugged directly into modem is best) and obviously webcam and mic.
52 min
June 28, 2025Ep246 ‘Massage & Manual Therapy: A Modern View’ - Reflection with Cecily Hislop
In the twelfth of our 'Reflection Series', host Matt Phillips is joined by Cecily Hislop of South Phoenix Massage Therapy, who reflects on Ep118 of the Sports Therapy Association Podcast ‘Massage & Manual Therapy: A Modern View', that was recorded back in 2022 with Paul Coker & Anna Maria Mazzieri
Cecily discusses the challenges we have of re-shaping the clinical massage industry, breaking down traditional misconceptions and introducing new techniques to improve patient care. From understanding the significance of interpersonal communication to recognizing the enduring impact of touch, this episode promises valuable insights for therapists striving to enhance their practice.
Listen now to reflect, adapt, and evolve as Matt and Cecily dissect crucial themes for holistic therapy, with advice on how to support your clients effectively. Whether you're a seasoned therapist or just starting out, there's something enlightening in this episode for everyone.
Useful Links
Ep118 'Massage & Manual Therapy: A Modern View' with guests Anna Maria Mazzieri & Paul Coker
Cecily Hislop on Facebook
The Hands On Hub Facebook group
The ST School Website
The Hands On Hub & STA Conference
Join us at the STA South West Conference, taking place on September 20th & 21st in Exmouth, in collaboration with The ST School’s Hands On Hub. Tickets are now on sale at The ST School Website. There’s an Early Bird ticket til the end of June AND a discount code for STA members which can be found on the STA Members page.
Questions?
Email: [email protected]
40 min
June 20, 2025Ep.245 'Musculoskeletal Health at Menopause' - Reflection with Nichola Smith
In the eleventh of our 'Reflection Series', host Matt Phillips is joined by Nichola Smith of Chamomilehealthholistic.uk, reflects on Ep210 of the Sports Therapy Association Podcast “Musculoskeletal Health at Menopause”, that was recorded August 27th 2024 with special guest Michelle Lyons.
Nichola discusses the impact menopause & perimenopause can have on musculoskeletal health, and the power of strength training as a transformative tool for women. Listen to discover practical strategies for navigating menopause, including the importance of holistic approaches such as dietary adjustments, sleep hygiene, and magnesium supplements, along with exploring the psychosocial aspects affecting women's health. Nichola shares her own experiences and invaluable resources to support women in conquering menopause-related challenges and embracing a healthier lifestyle.
This episode is a treasure trove of knowledge for women seeking to empower themselves during menopause and for therapists aiming to provide compassionate, informed guidance for their clients navigating this crucial life stage. Don't miss the practical advice and empowering discourse aimed at enriching the lives of women in their perimenopausal and menopausal journeys.
Useful Links
Ep210 'Musculoskeletal Health At Menopause: New Research’ with special guest Michelle Lyons
Nichola Smith Website - Chamomile Health
Nichola Smith on Instagram - @chamomilehealth
Ainsworth Body Science Website
Masters Of Martial Arts Academy Website
Bolton Spinal Health Website
The Hands On Hub & STA Conference
Michelle Lyons is one of the speakers at the STA South West Conference, taking place on September 20th & 21st in Exmouth, in collaboration with The ST School’s Hands On Hub. Her presentation will be in the Main Theatre on Day 1, 15.55 - 16.35: "The Menstrual Detective: Why the '5th Vital Sign’ might be the Missing Link in MSK Health for Female Athletes."

Tickets are now on sale at The ST School Website. There’s an Early Bird ticket til the end of June AND a discount code for STA members which can be found on the STA Members page.
Questions?
Email: [email protected]
42 min

About The STA Clinician Podcast

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The STA Clinician Podcast - 'Connecting Clinicians Across Healthcare' - is recorded LIVE every Tuesday at 8pm (UK) on the Sports Therapy Association YouTube channel and…