Collaborative Connections Podcast | Conversations on Cancer Care for Oncology Massage Therapists & Estheticians

In this episode of Collaborative Connections, host Erica Clinton speaks with Morag Currin, oncology aesthetician, educator, and S4OM board member, about the role estheticians play in early skin cancer detection. With more than 30 years in practice and as the founder of The Soul Silo, Morag has pioneered oncology aesthetics education since 2007. She discusses why estheticians are often positioned to notice changes in the skin before a dermatologist ever sees a client, how to identify benign versus suspicious lesions, and the importance of consistent client communication and documentation.The conversation also covers melanoma risk factors including FAMMM syndrome and mole count, the impact of certain cancer treatment drugs on skin pigmentation, lesser known sources of UV exposure, and the unique considerations for detecting skin cancer in clients with darker skin tones. Morag closes with a candid discussion on fair compensation for oncology aesthetics services and what she wants every new esthetician to understand about preparing to serve clients navigating skin cancer.Topics Discussed here:Why skin cancer awareness belongs in the esthetician's scope of practiceRecognizing and documenting suspicious lesions over timeCommon gaps in foundational skin cancer education for estheticiansSunscreen myths, reapplication, and the vitamin D conversion balanceFAMMM syndrome and mole count as melanoma risk indicatorsSkin pigmentation changes related to immunotherapy and targeted melanoma drugsImmunosuppression and increased skin cancer riskLesser known UV exposure sources, including gel manicure lamps and tanning bedsLifestyle and occupational sun exposure historyMole mapping, intake forms, and referral practicesDetecting skin cancer in clients with darker skin tonesSkincare approach for clients in active cancer treatmentAdvocacy for fair compensation in oncology aestheticsView extended shownotes hereTo learn more about the Society for Oncology Massage (S4OM) visit http://www.s4om.orgFollow S4OM on your favorite social media platforms!Facebook: Society for Oncology Massage (S4OM) | Auburn ME (facebook.com)Instagram: Society for Oncology Massage (@s4om_org) • Instagram photos and videosTwitter: S4OM_Org (@s4om_org) / TwitterLinkedIn: Society for Oncology Massage | LinkedIn

In this episode of Collaborative Connections, host Ericka Clinton talks with Brian Morris, president of the Jojoba Company. Celebrating his 10-year milestone, Brian shares insights into jojoba, a liquid wax native to Arizona, and its remarkable benefits for skin care, particularly for massage therapists and oncology patients.The conversation delves into jojoba's biocompatibility, non-allergenic properties, and its ability to promote collagen synthesis and reduce inflammation. Brian also discusses the company's focus on education and research efforts to expand the understanding of jojoba's capabilities.Topics discussed:  Jojoba's Unique Properties and BenefitsThe Role of Jojoba in Sustainable ProductsSpecific Benefits for Medical and Sensitive SkinHistorical Uses and Modern Discoveries of JojobaMore about Brian Morris and The Jojoba Company:Shop The Jojoba Company websiteBrian just celebrated his 10 year anniversary with The Jojoba Company. For the last five years, he has been the President of the company. Brian has had many careers in his life from running a video production company to developing websites, which is how he landed at The Jojoba Company. Honesty, simplicity, and curiosity are his guiding principals in everyday life and in business. To learn more about the Society for Oncology Massage (S4OM) visit http://www.s4om.orgFollow S4OM on your favorite social media platforms!Facebook: Society for Oncology Massage (S4OM) | Auburn ME (facebook.com)Instagram: Society for Oncology Massage (@s4om_org) • Instagram photos and videosTwitter: S4OM_Org (@s4om_org) / TwitterLinkedIn: Society for Oncology Massage | LinkedIn

In this episode of Collaborative Connections, host Ericka Clinton interviews Xerlan Deery, to delve into the instrumental role of massage therapy within hospital environments. With over 35 years of experience, Xerlan brings a wealth of knowledge, sharing insights on how massage therapy can significantly enhance patient care and the growing acceptance of insurance coverage for this vital service. Xerlan and Ericka discuss the unique challenges that hospital-based massage therapists face, such as securing proper workspace and obtaining comprehensive hospital orientation. Xerlan underscores the importance of employing consultants to design effective and safe massage therapy programs, potentially enriching the community and easing the workload on nurses by addressing individual patient needs. Listeners will gain a comprehensive understanding of the multifaceted skill set required for hospital-based massage therapists, including the ability to navigate various medical conditions and integrate seamlessly within a healthcare team. Xerlan also touches on the need for robust patient feedback to help hospitals recognize the immense value and return on investment that massage therapy offers.  Topics discussed: The Importance of Massage Therapy in Hospital Settings Challenges Faced by Hospital-Based Massage Therapists Role of Consultants in Hospital-Based Massage Programs Understanding Hospital Priorities Benefits and Skill Sets for Hospital-Based Massage Therapists Building a Hospital-Based Massage Therapy Program  More About Xerlan Deery, LMT, BCTMB Visit Xerlan’s Website Follow Anatriptic Alchemy on Facebook Xerlan Deery is a Licensed and Board Certified Massage Therapist, Educator and Healthcare Consultant with a passion for integrating massage therapy into healthcare settings. With over 35 years of experience, Xerlan focuses on evidence-informed, safe and effective care for active and medically involved humans, and collaboration with healthcare teams. Throughout her career, Xerlan has held various roles, including working in hospitals as a massage therapist, foundational massage therapy instructor, continuing education provider, Hospital-Based Massage Consultant, and expert witness. Xerlan has also founded and owned a massage school and a multi-disciplinary practice. Xerlan's commitment to the profession is evident in her involvement in numerous organizations such as the American Massage Therapy Association (AMTA), the Society for Oncology Massage (S4OM), and Unite for Her (UFH). Her contributions to the field of massage therapy have been recognized through various awards, including the Healing Hands Award from the Y-Me Breast Cancer Network of Strength and the AMTA National Mentor of the Year Award.  To learn more about the Society for Oncology Massage (S4OM) visit http://www.s4om.orgFollow S4OM on your favorite social media platforms!Facebook: Society for Oncology Massage (S4OM) | Auburn ME (facebook.com)Instagram: Society for Oncology Massage (@s4om_org) • Instagram photos and videosTwitter: S4OM_Org (@s4om_org) / TwitterLinkedIn: Society for Oncology Massage | LinkedIn

In this episode of Collaborative Connections, host Ericka Clinton interviews Cindy Spence, a massage therapist specializing in oncology and hospice care. Cindy shares her insights and experiences, shedding light on the incredible impact of massage therapy in end-of-life care. From discussing the differences between hospice and palliative care to the unique skills and emotional resilience required for this work, Cindy's wisdom and compassion shine through. Listeners will gain a deeper understanding of the profound importance of providing comfort and support during life's final moments. Tune in as these two remarkable individuals engage in a heartfelt and enlightening conversation.  Topics discussed: Importance of hospice care in providing support and community for those at the end of life The emotional and psychological aspects of caring for patients in hospice Adapting Massage for Hospice Patients Understanding the Difference Between Hospice and Palliative Care Impact on the Massage Therapist and Self-Care More About Cynthia Spence Buy Palliative Touch: Massage For People at the End of Life Visit Final Touch Trainings website to see upcoming classes Follow Final Touch Training on Facebook Learn more about where Cindy works T-Boone Pickens Center  Cindy Spence has been a massage therapist specializing in oncology and hospice care since 1999, after her father-in-law’s dying wish for gentle touch inspired her to attend massage school. In 2016, Cindy joined forces with her colleague and friend, Susan Gee, to create Final Touch Training, an endeavor devoted to top-notch education for professionals seeking to provide safe, supportive touch for people with advanced illness. “Susan and I are passionately devoted to this mission,” says Cindy, “because we have seen firsthand the extraordinary benefits of massage at the end of life.”  With more than 40 years of combined experience in hospice care, Cindy and Susan offer a 20-hour CE class each June at the world-class T. Boone Pickens Hospice Inpatient Center in Dallas, Texas. Participants are supported on a three-day journey like no other, with sequence and pacing mindfully designed to reflect our approach to this soul-stirring work. The textbook for class, Palliative Touch: Massage for People at the End of Life, is available through Handspring Publishing, Amazon, and Barnes & Noble. If you have ever wanted to support a loved one or client with advanced illness, we invite you to visit our website or Facebook page to connect with our blog posts, articles, podcasts, and 3-hour online training for beginners. Our class will be offered next month at the 2024 AMTA Texas Convention. As of this moment, five vacant spots are available to any massage therapist in the U.S.  To learn more about the Society for Oncology Massage (S4OM) visit http://www.s4om.orgFollow S4OM on your favorite social media platforms!Facebook: Society for Oncology Massage (S4OM) | Auburn ME (facebook.com)Instagram: Society for Oncology Massage (@s4om_org) • Instagram photos and videosTwitter: S4OM_Org (@s4om_org) / TwitterLinkedIn: Society for Oncology Massage | LinkedIn

Lymphedema can be a challenging condition to live with, and it's important for clinicians to help their clients access their inner wisdom and find a sense of peace. The following meditation, recommended by Kathleen Lisson, can help your clients feel more centered and calm when they come to your office for a massage or treatment. By incorporating this simple meditation into your intake process, you can help your clients feel more relaxed and open to the healing power of massage. Remember that lymphedema can be a challenging condition, but with a little bit of self-compassion and kindness, your clients can learn to find peace and acceptance within themselves. More About Kathleen Lisson, LMT, CLT Sign up for Kathleen’s Free CE class: https://plasticsurgeryrecoverymassage.teachable.com/p/manual-lymphatic-drainage-more-than-edema-reduction Follow Kathleen on Instagram: @stressreductionforlymphedema Learn more about Kathleen on her website: http://kathleenhelenlisson.com/ Email Kathleen (lisson@gmail.com) to get your free copy of Stress Reduction for Lymphedema (only valid during December 2023) Kathleen Helen Lisson is board certified in therapeutic massage and bodywork and is a Certified Lymphedema Therapist. She helps clients with lymphedema and lipedema as well as clients who have had plastic surgery and reconstructive surgery after cancer. She has spoken at the American Vein and Lymphatic Society, Fat Disorders Resource Society, International Society of Lymphology, MLD UK, National Lymphedema Network and Society for Oncology Massage conferences. Kathleen’s writing focuses on providing education resources for her clients with lymphedema and lipedema and her fellow Lymphedema Therapists. She is the author of Swollen, Bloated and Puffy, Lipedema Treatment Guide, Plastic Surgery Recovery Handbook, Southern California Plastic Surgery Cookbook, Mindful Strategies for Adults with Adverse Childhood Experiences and Stress Reduction for Lymphedema. She is a coauthor of the Standard of Care for Lipedema in the United States, which was funded by a grant from the National Institutes of Health National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI) and published in the journal Phlebology. While not working, Kathleen enjoys historical fiction, running and yoga. She lives with her husband Arun and their dog in San Diego, CA.To learn more about the Society for Oncology Massage (S4OM) visit http://www.s4om.orgFollow S4OM on your favorite social media platforms!Facebook: Society for Oncology Massage (S4OM) | Auburn ME (facebook.com)Instagram: Society for Oncology Massage (@s4om_org) • Instagram photos and videosTwitter: S4OM_Org (@s4om_org) / TwitterLinkedIn: Society for Oncology Massage | LinkedIn

In this episode of Collaborative Connections, host Ericka Clinton is joined by guest Kathleen Lisson, a board-certified massage therapist, lymphedema therapist, health coach, and yoga instructor. Kathleen shares her insightful expertise on the impact of stress on chronic illness, focusing on guided meditation and stress reduction techniques for clients with lymphedema and cancer history. Together, they delve into the importance of treating the whole person, integrating massage therapy, and stress reduction practices for optimal care. Their conversation also touches on the distinctions between certified lymphedema therapists, physical therapists, and occupational therapists, as well as addressing the differences between lymphedema and lipedema. With personal anecdotes and professional expertise, Kathleen Lisson and Ericka Clinton deliver an informative and inspiring discussion geared towards empowering healthcare providers in their support of clients with chronic illnesses. Topics discussed: Importance of Stress Reduction for Clients with Chronic Illness Supporting Clients with Lymphedema Addressing the Impact of Cancer and Lymphedema Stress on the lymphatic system and wound healing More About Kathleen Lisson, LMD, CLT Sign up for Kathleen’s Free CE class: https://plasticsurgeryrecoverymassage.teachable.com/p/manual-lymphatic-drainage-more-than-edema-reduction Follow Kathleen on Instagram: @stressreductionforlymphedema Learn more about Kathleen on her website: http://kathleenhelenlisson.com/ Email Kathleen (lisson@gmail dot com) to get your free copy of Stress Reduction for Lymphedema (S4OM Preferred praactitioners only, only valid during December 2023) Kathleen Helen Lisson is board certified in therapeutic massage and bodywork and is a Certified Lymphedema Therapist. She helps clients with lymphedema and lipedema as well as clients who have had plastic surgery and reconstructive surgery after cancer. She has spoken at the American Vein and Lymphatic Society, Fat Disorders Resource Society, International Society of Lymphology, MLD UK, National Lymphedema Network and Society for Oncology Massage conferences. Kathleen’s writing focuses on providing education resources for her clients with lymphedema and lipedema and her fellow Lymphedema Therapists. She is the author of Swollen, Bloated and Puffy, Lipedema Treatment Guide, Plastic Surgery Recovery Handbook, Southern California Plastic Surgery Cookbook, Mindful Strategies for Adults with Adverse Childhood Experiences and Stress Reduction for Lymphedema. She is a coauthor of the Standard of Care for Lipedema in the United States, which was funded by a grant from the National Institutes of Health National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI) and published in the journal Phlebology. While not working, Kathleen enjoys historical fiction, running and yoga. She lives with her husband Arun and their dog in San Diego, CA.To learn more about the Society for Oncology Massage (S4OM) visit http://www.s4om.orgFollow S4OM on your favorite social media platforms!Facebook: Society for Oncology Massage (S4OM) | Auburn ME (facebook.com)Instagram: Society for Oncology Massage (@s4om_org) • Instagram photos and videosTwitter: S4OM_Org (@s4om_org) / TwitterLinkedIn: Society for Oncology Massage | LinkedIn

In this episode of Collaborative Connections, we dive into the world of CBD and its potential health benefits. Our guest, Brock Freisen, Carpe Diem Rep, shares his journey of bringing high-quality CBD products to the market and collaborating with health professionals to spread awareness about the endocannabinoid system. We explore the personal experiences that led to the creation of Carpe Diem and the impact of CBD on chronic illness, physical discomfort, and joint pain. Join us as we discuss the therapeutic benefits of CBD, including its role in massage therapy and its potential to complement natural therapies like chiropractic work. We also touch on the difference between full spectrum and CBD isolate products and their implications for drug testing. Tune in to gain valuable insights on CBD, its applications, and the efforts made to make health accessible to all. Topics discussed: The lack of knowledge about the endocannabinoid system and the potential health benefits of CBD Educating health professionals on the benefits of CBD for patients Carpe Diem’s focus on providing high-quality CBD products through extensive farming- The founders' personal experiences that led them to explore natural and organic alternatives The potential benefits of THC and CBD products for individuals with chronic illnesses and physical discomfort More About Brock Freisen and Carpe Diem Vist Carpe Diem’s website My name is Brock Friesen the Director of Sales and Education at Carpe Diem CBD. I have a business back ground with an exercise science sports studies addition. I have seen first hand how hemp or CBD have helped many people around me including myself. I believe health should not be a luxury and everyone should have access to quality products that empower them to Seize The Day! To learn more about the Society for Oncology Massage (S4OM) visit http://www.s4om.orgFollow S4OM on your favorite social media platforms!Facebook: Society for Oncology Massage (S4OM) | Auburn ME (facebook.com)Instagram: Society for Oncology Massage (@s4om_org) • Instagram photos and videosTwitter: S4OM_Org (@s4om_org) / TwitterLinkedIn: Society for Oncology Massage | LinkedIn

In today's episode, we have a very special guest, Julie Olson, who will be sharing her experience and insights from the prestigious Society for Oncology Massage (S4OM) Collaborative Connections event. Julie takes us on her journey, starting from her early days as a massage therapist in the integrative medicine department at St. Francis Hospital in Hartford, Connecticut. She shares how her path led her to discover the Society for Oncology Massage and the transformative impact it had on her profession. As we dive into the episode, Julie recounts attending her first in-person conference in 2018 and the amazing connections she made with like-minded individuals, like Xerlan Deery, who encouraged her to become a regional champ. She highlights the joy of networking and meeting new faces in the S4OM community, as well as the immense gratitude she feels towards the pioneers who laid the foundation for her work. In this episode, we will also hear about Julie's experience at the recent Oncology Massage Healing Summit held in Minneapolis, in partnership with Northwestern Health Sciences University. She discusses the incredible energy and sense of community that filled the event, emphasizing the value of physical interaction and connection in fostering personal and professional growth. Join us as we delve into Julie Olson's journey with S4OM and her inspiring experience at the Oncology Massage Healing Summit. It's a conversation that highlights the power of community, collaboration, and investing in oneself. Topics discussed: Recap of the amazing Oncology Massage Healing Summit in Minneapolis Deep insights into the power of in-person connections and networking Key learnings from breakout sessions and inspirational speakers More About Julie Olson For 21 years Julie has worked in the field of wellness and integrative medicine and believes that therapeutic massage is an integral part of balancing mind and body. Degreed in social work and aging studies, Julie is an alumna of the Connecticut Center for Massage Therapy and a professional member of the AMTA as well as a preferred practitioner/regional champion in Connecticut. Julie brings experience in infusion centers, hospital and community center settings. Holistichealthoptionsllc.janeapp.com To learn more about the Society for Oncology Massage (S4OM) visit http://www.s4om.orgFollow S4OM on your favorite social media platforms!Facebook: Society for Oncology Massage (S4OM) | Auburn ME (facebook.com)Instagram: Society for Oncology Massage (@s4om_org) • Instagram photos and videosTwitter: S4OM_Org (@s4om_org) / TwitterLinkedIn: Society for Oncology Massage | LinkedIn