Medical Massage Speakers
Ever spent hours scrolling through speaker profiles and still felt unsure who actually knows their stuff?
When you're searching for medical massage speakers, it's easy to get stuck.
Are they licensed? Do they speak to professionals or the general public?
Are they engaging on stage... or just reciting anatomy terms?
If you're asking yourself how to find the right medical massage speaker for your event, podcast, or show, you're not alone.
These experts cover a range of topics-technique, recovery, bodywork trends, wellness integration-and knowing who fits your audience best can make all the difference.
I've seen how the right speaker can shift the tone of an entire session, especially in a niche like this.
This guide highlights top medical massage speakers worth your time.
You'll learn who they are, what they talk about, and how to book them.
Whether you're running a summit, planning a wellness panel, or need a solid voice for your health podcast, you're in the right place.
Take a look and see which medical massage speakers stand out to you-or reach out to book someone directly for your next event.
Top Medical Massage Speakers List for 2025
Sam Small
Grow and Protect Your Massage Career as a Specialist in Medical Massage
Alan Rathburn
Transforming lives through chiropractic care and wellness expertise!
Dr. Tanya English
Transforming grief into joy through music and intuitive healing
Dean Howell
Healing hands, empowered minds, lasting wellness.
Michelle Thielen
Professional dancer, author, keynote speaker, humanitarian, depression-suicide survivor now thriving and founder of YogaFaith.
Natolie Warren
Therapist & Wellness Expert
What Makes a Great Medical Massage Speaker
Let's take someone like Dr. Tiffany Field, a pioneer in touch research. When she speaks, she doesn't just rattle off data. She tells stories about premature babies gaining weight through massage therapy, or how touch impacts cortisol levels. That's what makes her memorable. She connects the science to real-world outcomes.
Another hallmark of a great medical massage speaker is adaptability. They can tailor their message for a room full of sports rehab specialists just as easily as for spa owners or holistic health coaches. They read the room, adjust their tone, and know when to go deep and when to simplify.
And finally, they're not just educators-they're advocates. They speak with purpose, often pushing for better standards, more research, or broader insurance coverage. Their passion isn't just for massage-it's for progress.
So if you're scouting for your next event, look beyond the resume. Look for someone who can teach, inspire, and challenge your audience to think differently about therapeutic touch.
How to Select the Best Medical Massage Speaker for Your Show
1. Define Your Audience and Goals.
- Are you targeting physical therapists, athletic trainers, or wellness entrepreneurs?
- Do you want a speaker who can dive into clinical techniques or one who focuses on business growth in the massage industry?
- Clarify whether your goal is education, inspiration, or practical takeaways.
2. Search Smart Using Platforms Like Talks.co.
- Use Talks.co to browse speaker profiles with filters like topic, experience level, and availability.
- Look for speakers who already have a speaker page with videos, testimonials, and past event appearances.
- Bonus tip: Reach out to hosts who've booked them before for candid feedback.
3. Review Their Content Style.
- Watch at least two of their past talks. Are they engaging? Do they explain complex topics clearly?
- Check their social media or YouTube for short-form content. Do they know how to hold attention in 60 seconds?
4. Match Their Expertise to Your Theme.
- If your event is about integrative health, a speaker who bridges massage with functional medicine might be ideal.
- For a sports rehab summit, look for someone with experience in athletic recovery protocols.
5. Vet for Professionalism.
- Do they respond promptly?
- Are they flexible with tech setups and time zones?
- Do they have a media kit or speaker one-sheet ready?
Selecting the right speaker is about more than filling a slot-it's about creating a moment that sticks with your audience long after the event ends.
How to Book a Medical Massage Speaker
1. Start with a Shortlist.
- Use platforms like Talks.co to find vetted speakers with relevant experience.
- Look for those with strong bios, clear topic descriptions, and video samples.
2. Reach Out with a Clear Ask.
- Send a concise message outlining your event, audience, and what you're looking for.
- Include the date, format (live, recorded, hybrid), and expected duration.
- Example: "Hi Dr. Lee, we're hosting a virtual summit on integrative pain management and would love to feature your expertise on neuromuscular massage. Would you be available for a 30-minute session in mid-June?"
3. Confirm Logistics Early.
- Once they say yes, send a speaker agreement or confirmation email.
- Include tech requirements, deadlines for slides or bios, and rehearsal times if needed.
- Pro tip: Use a shared Google Doc or Airtable to track all speaker info.
4. Promote Them Well.
- Add their speaker page to your event site.
- Share clips or quotes from their past talks to build anticipation.
- Tag them on social media to boost visibility and engagement.
5. Follow Up Post-Event.
- Send a thank-you note and any audience feedback.
- Ask for a testimonial or referral if the session went well.
- Keep the relationship warm for future collaborations.
Booking a speaker is more than a transaction-it's the start of a partnership. Treat it like one, and you'll build a network of go-to experts who elevate every event you host.
Common Questions on Medical Massage Speakers
What is a medical massage speaker
Unlike general wellness speakers, medical massage speakers focus on evidence-based practices. They might cover topics like trigger point therapy, lymphatic drainage, post-surgical recovery, or the role of massage in managing chronic pain. Their audience often includes physical therapists, chiropractors, athletic trainers, and even medical doctors exploring integrative care.
These speakers are typically invited to summits, conferences, podcasts, and online events where health and wellness intersect with science. Some are authors or researchers, while others run clinics or teach continuing education courses.
What sets them apart is their ability to bridge the gap between hands-on practice and academic knowledge. They explain not just the 'how' of massage techniques but the 'why'-backed by anatomy, physiology, and clinical outcomes.
So whether you're running a virtual event for rehab professionals or a podcast on holistic health, a medical massage speaker brings both credibility and clarity to the conversation.
Why is a medical massage speaker important
First, they help demystify therapeutic massage. Many people still associate massage with luxury spas or relaxation. A medical massage speaker reframes it as a legitimate, evidence-based intervention for pain management, injury recovery, and even mental health support.
Second, they elevate the conversation. By presenting research, case studies, and clinical outcomes, they help shift public and professional perception. This can influence policy, insurance coverage, and interdisciplinary collaboration.
Third, they empower practitioners. Whether it's a massage therapist learning new techniques or a physical therapist exploring adjunct therapies, these speakers provide actionable insights that improve patient care.
And finally, they bring credibility to your event. Featuring a medical massage speaker signals that your platform values science, precision, and professional development-not just feel-good content. That credibility can attract a more engaged, qualified audience and open doors to partnerships with health organizations or academic institutions.
What do medical massage speakers do
- Deliver Expert Talks. They present at conferences, summits, and webinars on topics like neuromuscular therapy, post-injury rehabilitation, or massage for chronic illness.
- Translate Research into Practice. Many of them stay up-to-date with the latest studies and help practitioners apply this knowledge in real-world settings. For example, they might explain how recent findings on fascia mobility can change treatment protocols.
- Train and Certify Professionals. Some medical massage speakers also run workshops or continuing education courses, helping therapists meet licensing requirements or expand their skill sets.
- Advocate for Integrative Health. They often speak on panels or contribute to policy discussions about how massage fits into broader health systems, including insurance reimbursement and hospital-based care.
- Create Content for Diverse Platforms. Beyond live events, they might appear on podcasts, write articles, or create online courses. Their goal is always the same: to elevate the role of massage in modern healthcare.
In short, medical massage speakers are educators, thought leaders, and change agents who help both professionals and the public see massage therapy through a more informed, clinical lens.
How to become a medical massage speaker
1. Build Deep Expertise in Medical Massage
- Get certified through a recognized body like the NCBTMB or AMTA.
- Specialize in areas like injury recovery, post-surgical care, or chronic pain management.
- Keep up with research and case studies to stay current.
2. Create a Signature Talk
- Focus on a specific problem your audience faces, like 'Reducing Chronic Pain Through Trigger Point Therapy'.
- Use real-world examples, before-and-after case studies, and simple visuals.
- Practice delivering it to small groups or record yourself for feedback.
3. Build Your Speaker Page
- Use platforms like Talks.co to create a professional speaker profile.
- Include your bio, topics, testimonials, and a short speaker reel.
- Make it easy for event organizers to contact you.
4. Start Small, Then Scale
- Speak at local wellness events, massage schools, or online summits.
- Offer to guest on podcasts or webinars in health and wellness niches.
- Use each opportunity to refine your message and gather testimonials.
5. Connect with Hosts and Event Planners
- Reach out directly via LinkedIn or email with a personalized pitch.
- Use Talks.co to match with virtual event hosts looking for experts.
- Keep a spreadsheet of contacts, follow-up dates, and event details.
6. Leverage Feedback and Grow
- Ask for reviews and video clips after each talk.
- Use feedback to improve your delivery and content.
- Once you've built a track record, start charging for appearances.
Becoming a medical massage speaker isn't about being famous. It's about being valuable. Focus on solving real problems, and the invites will follow.
What do you need to be a medical massage speaker
1. Clinical Expertise
You need a strong foundation in medical massage therapy. This includes certifications, hands-on experience, and a deep understanding of anatomy, pathology, and treatment protocols. If you've worked with post-op patients, athletes, or chronic pain clients, that's gold.
2. Communication Skills
You must be able to explain complex topics in simple, engaging ways. Whether you're speaking to other therapists, healthcare professionals, or the general public, clarity is key. Practice storytelling, use analogies, and bring in real-life examples.
3. A Defined Niche or Angle
The best speakers don't try to talk to everyone. Maybe you specialize in sports recovery, geriatric massage, or integrating massage with physical therapy. Define your lane and own it.
4. A Platform to Showcase Your Work
Having a speaker page on a platform like Talks.co can make a huge difference. It acts as your digital resume, helping event organizers quickly assess your fit. Include your topics, testimonials, and a short video clip.
5. A Network of Hosts and Peers
Speaking opportunities often come through relationships. Connect with summit hosts, podcast producers, and other speakers. Talks.co is a great place to find and connect with virtual event organizers who are actively looking for experts.
In short, to be a medical massage speaker, you need a mix of clinical credibility, communication chops, and a strategy for getting in front of the right people.
Do medical massage speakers get paid
Paid vs. Unpaid Opportunities
- Paid gigs: These are typically at industry conferences, corporate wellness events, or sponsored webinars. Rates can range from $250 to $5,000+ depending on your reputation and the event size.
- Unpaid gigs: Many speakers start here, especially on podcasts or virtual summits. While there's no direct payment, these can lead to client leads, course sales, or future paid bookings.
Factors That Influence Pay
- Experience Level: A seasoned speaker with a track record of results commands higher fees.
- Audience Size: Bigger audience, bigger budget. A national massage therapy conference will pay more than a local meetup.
- Topic Relevance: If your talk aligns with current trends (e.g., post-COVID rehab, integrative care), you're more in demand.
Typical Pay Ranges
| Event Type | Average Pay Range |
|---|---|
| Local Wellness Workshop | $100 - $500 |
| Virtual Summit Appearance | Free - $300 |
| Industry Conference Keynote | $1,000 - $5,000+ |
| Corporate Wellness Talk | $500 - $3,000 |
How do medical massage speakers make money
1. Paid Speaking Engagements
This is the most direct route. Conferences, corporate wellness programs, and continuing education events often pay for expert speakers. Rates vary based on experience and audience size.
2. Online Courses and Workshops
Many speakers package their knowledge into digital products. For example:
- A course on 'Advanced Trigger Point Therapy for Therapists'
- A virtual workshop on 'Integrating Massage into Post-Surgical Rehab'
Platforms like Teachable or Kajabi make this easy. Promote your course during talks.
3. Consulting and Training
Some medical massage speakers offer consulting to clinics, spas, or wellness centers. Others train massage therapists in specialized techniques. This can be a lucrative B2B model.
4. Affiliate Marketing and Sponsorships
If you speak at events or host webinars, brands may pay you to promote their products. Think massage tables, oils, or education platforms. Just make sure it aligns with your values.
5. Book Sales and Publications
Publishing a book or contributing to industry journals can boost your credibility and income. Some speakers sell books at events or use them as lead magnets.
6. Private Coaching or Mentoring
If you've built a name for yourself, other therapists may pay for 1-on-1 guidance on technique, business, or speaking.
In short, medical massage speakers diversify. Speaking opens doors, but the real money often comes from what happens after the talk.
How much do medical massage speakers make
Average Earnings
- Beginner Speakers: $0 - $500 per event. Often unpaid but may receive perks like free access to events or exposure.
- Mid-Level Speakers: $500 - $2,000 per talk. These speakers have a few years of experience and a solid niche.
- Top-Tier Speakers: $2,000 - $10,000+ per keynote. These are industry leaders, often authors or educators.
Annual Income Potential
| Speaker Type | Events/Year | Avg. Fee/Event | Estimated Annual Income |
|---|---|---|---|
| Part-Time Speaker | 10 | $500 | $5,000 |
| Full-Time Speaker | 30 | $1,500 | $45,000 |
| Speaker-Entrepreneur | 20 | $2,000 | $40,000 + product sales |
As covered in 'How do medical massage speakers make money', many supplement their income with courses, consulting, or books. A speaker selling a $297 course to just 100 people a year adds nearly $30,000 to their income.
Key Variables
- Location: Speakers in the U.S., Canada, and Australia often command higher fees.
- Audience: B2B (clinics, hospitals) tends to pay more than B2C (general wellness events).
- Marketing: Those with a strong Talks.co profile or speaker reel get booked more often.
So while some medical massage speakers treat it as a side hustle, others turn it into a six-figure business with the right strategy.
How much do medical massage speakers cost
Typical Fee Ranges
| Speaker Level | Event Type | Cost Estimate |
|---|---|---|
| New Speaker | Local workshop or webinar | $0 - $300 |
| Mid-Level Speaker | Regional conference or summit | $500 - $2,000 |
| Expert Speaker | National event or keynote | $2,000 - $10,000+ |
- Length of Talk: A 20-minute spotlight costs less than a 90-minute workshop.
- Customization: Tailored talks or hands-on demos often come at a premium.
- Travel Requirements: In-person events may require covering flights, hotels, and per diem.
- Audience Size: Larger audiences usually mean higher fees, especially if the speaker is expected to drive ticket sales.
Virtual vs. In-Person
- Virtual talks tend to cost less ($100 - $1,000) but can still deliver high value.
- In-person events include more logistics, so expect to pay more.
Additional Costs
- Materials: Some speakers provide handouts or product samples.
- Recording Rights: If you want to record and reuse the talk, expect to negotiate licensing fees.
Hiring a medical massage speaker isn't just about the talk itself. It's about the transformation they bring to your audience. Choose based on fit, not just fee.
Who are the best medical massage speakers ever
- Whitney Lowe: A pioneer in orthopedic massage education. His evidence-based approach and clear teaching style have influenced thousands of therapists worldwide.
- Ruth Werner: Known for her work on pathology and massage, Ruth has authored textbooks and spoken at major conferences. Her talks blend science with practical application.
- Til Luchau: Founder of Advanced-Trainings.com, Til is known for his deep dives into myofascial techniques and pain science. A regular speaker at AMTA and international events.
- James Waslaski: A former paramedic turned massage educator, James combines sports therapy with medical massage. His dynamic presentations are packed with clinical insights.
- Diana Thompson: Author of 'Hands Heal', Diana focuses on massage in integrative healthcare. She's spoken at hospitals, research conferences, and policy forums.
- Ben Benjamin: With a PhD in sports medicine, Ben's talks often explore injury assessment and treatment. He's also a strong advocate for massage ethics and professionalism.
- Irene Diamond: Creator of the Active Myofascial Therapy method, Irene speaks on pain relief and rehab. She's also active in online education and coaching.
These speakers have not only educated thousands but also helped legitimize medical massage in clinical and academic circles.
Who are the best medical massage speakers in the world
- Dr. Ross Turchaninov (USA/Russia): A physician and massage educator, Dr. Turchaninov is known for bridging Eastern and Western approaches. His talks often focus on clinical applications of massage in neurology and orthopedics.
- John Gibbons (UK): An osteopath and sports therapist, John is a popular international speaker. His 'Bodymaster Method' seminars attract therapists from Europe, Asia, and the Americas.
- Art Riggs (USA): Based in California but teaching worldwide, Art is a Rolfer and deep tissue expert. His workshops on structural integration are sought after globally.
- David Lesondak (USA): Author of 'Fascia: What It Is and Why It Matters', David speaks at fascia research conferences and medical schools worldwide.
- Anita Shannon (USA): A leader in medical cupping therapy, Anita has taught in over 20 countries. Her talks blend traditional techniques with modern clinical outcomes.
- Lars Avemarie (Denmark): A pain science educator and therapist, Lars is known for challenging outdated massage myths. His evidence-based talks are popular in Europe and online.
- Dr. Joe Muscolino (USA): With a global following, Dr. Muscolino's anatomy and kinesiology lectures are staples in massage schools and conferences worldwide.
These speakers represent the best of the best, not just in skill but in their ability to educate, inspire, and elevate the global massage community.
Common myths about medical massage speakers
This one's common, and it's misleading. While many medical massage speakers do come from a therapeutic background, their role on stage is far more specialized. They're educators, advocates, and often researchers who translate complex medical and anatomical knowledge into digestible, actionable insights for diverse audiences. Think of someone like Dr. Tiffany Field, who speaks on the science of touch and massage therapy at global health conferences. She's not just sharing techniques - she's interpreting peer-reviewed studies, policy implications, and patient outcomes.
Myth 2: There's no real demand for medical massage speakers.
Actually, the demand is growing across wellness expos, integrative medicine summits, and corporate wellness programs. With the rise of holistic health and preventative care, companies and institutions are hungry for credible voices who can bridge the gap between clinical science and hands-on therapy. For example, events like the Integrative Healthcare Symposium in the U.S. or the World Massage Conference online platform regularly feature medical massage professionals as keynote speakers.
Myth 3: You need a PhD or MD to be taken seriously.
Not true. While credentials help, what matters more is your ability to communicate evidence-based insights clearly and confidently. Many successful medical massage speakers have certifications in clinical massage, years of hands-on experience, and a knack for storytelling. They build authority by publishing articles, collaborating with healthcare providers, and showing up consistently at industry events.
Myth 4: Speaking about massage therapy is too niche to scale.
Tell that to speakers who've built six-figure businesses around their expertise. Niches are powerful when you own them. Medical massage intersects with pain management, mental health, sports recovery, and even workplace ergonomics. That opens doors to multiple verticals - from hospitals to HR departments to athletic organizations.
Myth 5: It's all about technique demos.
Technique has its place, but great medical massage speakers focus on outcomes, case studies, and frameworks. They talk about reducing opioid use through massage, or how lymphatic drainage impacts post-surgical recovery. The best talks are less about 'how to do a trigger point release' and more about 'why this matters to patient care'.
Case studies of successful medical massage speakers
Then there's Susan Salvo, an educator and author who's spoken at events like the AMTA National Convention. Her presentations don't just teach-they inspire. She weaves personal stories, clinical data, and audience interaction into a format that keeps people engaged. What sets her apart? She understands that speaking is about connection, not just content.
In Australia, Mark Perren-Jones built a reputation by combining massage therapy with wellness entrepreneurship. His YouTube channel and courses led to speaking invitations at wellness retreats and online summits. He didn't wait for permission-he created his own platform, then leveraged it into speaking gigs.
And let's not forget regional success stories. In Kenya, Grace Mungai has been educating rural health workers on the role of massage in maternal care. Her talks, often delivered in community centers and health clinics, are tailored to local needs. She's not on big stages, but her impact is undeniable.
Each of these speakers took a different path, but they share a few things: a clear niche, a commitment to education, and the courage to speak up. Whether they're addressing a room of 30 or 3,000, they show that medical massage speakers can shape conversations in healthcare, one talk at a time.
Future trends for medical massage speakers
One big trend: data-driven storytelling. Audiences are craving more than anecdotal evidence. They want numbers, outcomes, and studies. Speakers who can cite clinical trials, patient recovery rates, or cost-savings from massage interventions will stand out. Think of how nutritionists now use wearable tech data to back up their talks-massage speakers can do the same with EMR integration or patient-reported outcomes.
Another shift: virtual and hybrid events are here to stay. This opens the door for speakers from rural or underrepresented regions to reach global audiences. It also means mastering new formats-like pre-recorded sessions, interactive Q&As, or even VR-based anatomy demos.
Here are a few trends to watch:
- Cross-disciplinary panels. Expect more collaboration with physiotherapists, psychologists, and pain specialists.
- Corporate wellness integration. Companies are investing in preventative care, and massage is part of that conversation.
- AI-assisted diagnostics. As tools like muscle-mapping apps evolve, speakers who understand their implications will be in demand.
- Cultural competency. Global audiences want speakers who understand diverse healing traditions and can speak to them respectfully.
- Licensing and regulation updates. As more countries formalize massage therapy standards, speakers who can explain these shifts will be sought after.
The future isn't just about more speaking gigs-it's about more meaningful ones. Medical massage speakers who stay informed, adapt to new formats, and speak with authority will shape the next chapter of integrative health education.
Tools and resources for aspiring medical massage speakers
Massage Therapy Foundation. They offer research grants, educational resources, and speaker opportunities through their events. If you're looking to add credibility to your talks, referencing their studies or even applying for a grant can elevate your authority.
Slidebean. Not a design expert? No problem. Slidebean helps you create professional, data-driven presentations fast. Ideal for speakers who need to present clinical data or case studies in a clean, visual format.
Coursera - Science of Well-Being. While not massage-specific, this course helps you understand the psychology behind wellness. It's a great way to broaden your perspective and add depth to your talks, especially when addressing mental health or stress relief through massage.
Eventbrite. Use it to scout local and international wellness events where you can pitch yourself as a speaker. Bonus: analyze the speaker lineups to see what topics are trending.
Canva. Perfect for creating speaker one-sheets, workshop flyers, or social media promos. Their templates are easy to customize and can help you look polished even if you're just starting out.
Zoom. Still the go-to for virtual workshops and webinars. If you're not already comfortable hosting sessions on Zoom, get familiar with breakout rooms, screen sharing, and live polls-they're great tools for audience engagement.
LinkedIn Learning. Offers courses on public speaking, medical communication, and even storytelling. A good option if you're transitioning from clinical work to the stage and need to sharpen your delivery.