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

Society for Oncology Massage & Esthetics
  • 5.0 (3)
  • ALTERNATIVE HEALTH

The Collaborative Connections podcast explores the intersection between massage therapy and cancer care. Whether you're a massage therapist, specializing in cancer care or an oncology massage educator, this podcast is for you.To learn more about the Society for Oncology Massage, visit S4OM.org.

  1. 10/21/2025

    Ep. 20 - Head and Neck Oncology Care - Lymphedema, Fibrosis, and Research Breakthroughs with Holly McMillan

    Imagine being able to feel tissue changes caused by radiation therapy—without seeing the patient or knowing their medical history. That is exactly what today’s guest, Holly McMillan, M.C.D., CCC-SLP, LMP, CLT, demonstrated in her groundbreaking research collaboration with Dr. Geoff Bove at MD Anderson Cancer Center. In this episode, Holly shares her extraordinary journey from licensed massage therapist to Senior Research Speech Language Pathologist and Co-Director of the Trismus Clinic at the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center. She discusses her expertise in fibrosis, lymphedema management, and head and neck cancer rehabilitation, and why manual therapy is emerging as a critical tool in oncology survivorship. As a doctoral candidate and NIH-funded clinical trial collaborator, Holly is at the forefront of evidence-based approaches that integrate touch, research, and patient empowerment. Listeners will hear insights from Holly’s recently published studies, including safety and feasibility findings on manual therapy in head and neck cancer, and her remarkable work showing that trained therapists can palpate physiologic tissue changes after radiation—even under blinded conditions. This episode uncovers the science behind what oncology massage therapists have long known: the hands can detect what machines cannot, and healing begins with informed touch. Topics Discussed in this Episode: The clinical value of manual therapy in head and neck cancer rehabilitationHow radiation affects tissue structure, lymphatics, and healingBlinded research findings on palpating irradiated tissueEmpowering patients through at-home fibrosis and lymphedema protocolsIntraoral manual therapy: safety, lubrication, and function restorationDebunking the myth that mature scars cannot change View extended shownotes here To learn more about the Society for Oncology Massage (S4OM) visit http://www.s4om.org Follow 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 videos Twitter: S4OM_Org (@s4om_org) / Twitter LinkedIn: Society for Oncology Massage | LinkedIn

    29 min

  2. 04/18/2025

    Ep. 19 - Advancing Oncology Massage and Palliative Care in Italy with Daniela Panzeri

    Discover how oncology massage and palliative care are transforming patient well-being in Italy—and why these healing therapies may change lives worldwide. In this inspiring episode of Collaborative Connections, host Ericka Clinton sits down with Daniela Panzeri, Italy’s sole regional champion for the Society for Oncology Massage, to explore her groundbreaking work integrating massage therapy into hospice and palliative care settings. Daniela shares her journey from the Netherlands to Italy, detailing her unique role as the only massage therapist across three hospices, and reveals how compassionate touch can bring profound comfort to patients facing cancer, dementia, and chronic illness. You’ll learn about the collaborative power of combining oncology massage with music therapy, how Daniela is bridging the gap between healthcare professions, and her mission to educate both practitioners and the public—including writing a powerful new book that captures moving patient stories. If you’re passionate about holistic cancer care, integrative therapies, or seeking inspiration from real-world innovators making a difference, this episode is packed with insights, encouragement, and hope for the future of supportive care. Tune in to find out how one woman’s dedication is shaping a new standard of care in Italy and beyond! Topics Discussed in this Episode: Expanding oncology massage in ItalyIntegrative care for palliative patientsCollaboration with oncology aesthetics professionalsSharing patient stories through literatureEducation and networking in oncology massage Click here to view extended shownotes To learn more about the Society for Oncology Massage (S4OM) visit http://www.s4om.org Follow 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 videos Twitter: S4OM_Org (@s4om_org) / Twitter LinkedIn: Society for Oncology Massage | LinkedIn

    18 min

  3. 02/17/2025

    Ep. 18 – Innovative Oncology Massage Research with Jill Cole, MA, LMT, BCTMB

    In this episode of ‘Collaborative Connections,’ hosted by Ericka Clinton and sponsored by the Society for Oncology Massage and the Society for Oncology Esthetics, we feature Jill Cole, a licensed massage therapist and PhD candidate at the University of Kentucky.   Jill shares her journey of becoming a PhD candidate in Rehabilitation and Health Science, focusing on her research in oncology massage, particularly a feasibility study she is conducting at the UK Healthcare Integrative Medicine and Health. She explains the crossover randomized control trial of massage therapy during cancer treatment and discusses the importance and challenges of touch therapy research.   Throughout the conversation, Jill emphasizes the need for more biological and large-scale studies in the field and how empirical evidence can support the growth of the massage therapy profession. She highlights the collaborative nature of research and the critical role of massage therapists in advancing the profession through evidence-based practices.     Topics discussed:   Innovative oncology massage research Understanding the feasibility study framework Effects of massage on pain and anxiety Benefits of interdisciplinary PhD programs Importance of touch therapy research Research and growth in massage therapy   Click here to read the extended shownotes To learn more about the Society for Oncology Massage (S4OM) visit http://www.s4om.org Follow 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 videos Twitter: S4OM_Org (@s4om_org) / Twitter LinkedIn: Society for Oncology Massage | LinkedIn

    24 min

  4. 12/12/2024

    Ep. 17 -Enhancing Post-Breast Reconstruction Outcomes with Manual Lymphatic Drainage with Kathleen Lisson, LMT, CLT

    In this episode of 'Collaborative Connections,' hosted by Ericka Clinton and sponsored by the Society for Oncology Massage and the Society for Oncology Esthetics, massage therapist and educator Kathleen Leeson returns to discuss breast reconstruction surgery.  Kathleen, a certified lymphedema therapist, health coach, and yoga instructor, shares her expertise on different types of breast reconstruction surgeries, particularly diep flap and implant-based methods. She discusses the physical and emotional aspects of post-surgery recovery, including the importance of lymphatic drainage and scar management.  Kathleen also addresses the disparities in access to breast reconstruction and offers practical advice for clients dealing with surgical scars and chronic pain.  Topics Discussed:  Flap-Based Reconstruction Surgery Diep Flap Surgery Details Post-Operative Lymphatic Drainage Surgeon Referral Importance Swelling Management Techniques Compression Garment Strategies Managing Recovery Expectations Use of Liposuction Post-Surgery Concerns Managing Scar Pain  Timestamps 00:00 Introduction and Welcome   02:07 Breast Reconstruction Surgery Overview  03:12 Deep Flap Surgery Details  08:03 Implant-Based Reconstruction and Fat Grafting  11:30 Advocating for Better Outcomes  12:13 Advances in Oncology and Fat Grafting  13:03 Equity in Breast Reconstruction  14:16 Innovations in Surgical Techniques  16:19 Capsular Contracture and Pain Management  19:24 Liposuction and Fat Transfer  27:38 Lymphatic Drainage and Healing  33:04 Scar Management and Emotional Healing     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/  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.org Follow 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 videos Twitter: S4OM_Org (@s4om_org) / Twitter LinkedIn: Society for Oncology Massage | LinkedIn

    40 min

  5. 11/14/2024

    Ep. 16 - Effective Collaboration in Cancer Care with Janet Penny & Rebecca Sturgeon

    In this episode of 'Collaborative Connections,' hosted by Clinton, registered massage therapist Janet Penny and curriculum specialist Rebecca Sturgeon explore their collaborative journey in writing 'Oncology Massage - An Integrative Approach to Cancer Care.' They discuss the inspiration behind their partnership, the challenges of compiling a comprehensive guide, and the balance between research and writing. The conversation highlights key chapters such as the intake and therapeutic relationship, and emphasizes the role of community support, personal growth, and the aim to enrich the field of oncology massage. Penny and Sturgeon hope their work inspires others and integrates oncology massage into broader healthcare practices. Topics discussed:   Effective Collaboration in Cancer CareGrowing oncology massage awarenessChallenges and breakthroughs in writingMore About Janet Penny Visit Janet's website Janet Penny is a registered massage therapist in Ottawa, Canada. Her massage practice focus on people affected by cancer provides the challenges and inspiration that create deeply satisfying work. Janet provides S4OM accredited oncology massage training throughout Canada and is the co-author of Oncology Massage: An integrative approach to cancer care. More About Rebecca Sturgeon My clients and I decide together what is important in their session, giving my clients a sense of control that they may have lost. I create and hold a space where my clients are deeply listened to and their wishes honored. At my core, I am a teacher, and sharing knowledge with my clients, their families and other professionals is something I love to do. I have advanced training in oncology massage and manual lymphatic drainage. I am also an oncology massage educator through Healwell (www.healwell.org), and a preferred provider with the Society for Oncology Massage. To learn more about the Society for Oncology Massage (S4OM) visit http://www.s4om.org Follow 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 videos Twitter: S4OM_Org (@s4om_org) / Twitter LinkedIn: Society for Oncology Massage | LinkedIn

    23 min

  6. 09/26/2024

    Ep. 15 - Aromatherapy and Lymphatics in Cancer Care with Nicola McGill

    In this episode of 'Collaborative Connections,' hosted by Erica Clinton, aromatherapist Nicola McGill shares her 25-year journey in aromatherapy and oncology massage. Starting her practice in England, Nicola later moved to Boulder, Colorado, where she provides integrative care to oncology patients.   She discusses the inspiration behind her career, the significance of aromatherapy and manual lymphatic drainage, and the holistic benefits of essential oils on the human body. Nicola also touches on the importance of sustainability in aromatherapy and provides insights into how essential oils can support lymphatic health.     Topics discussed:     Training and Skills for Aromatherapy  Different Styles of Aromatherapy  Aromatherapy in Oncology Care  Risks and Safety in Aromatherapy   00:00 Introduction and Welcome   01:14 Meet Nicola McGill: Aromatherapist and Oncology Massage Therapist   02:59 Nicola's Journey into Aromatherapy   07:04 The Holistic Benefits of Aromatherapy   14:41 Sustainability in Aromatherapy   17:24 Nicola's Passion for Lymphatics   21:13 Integrating Aromatherapy with Lymphatic Drainage   26:34 The Chemistry of Aromatherapy   33:09 Conclusion and Final Thoughts    More About Nicola McGill, LLSA, LMT, BCTMB, CLT-LANA  Learn More about Nicola  Nicola McGill, LLSA, LMT, BCTMB, CLT-LANA, has over 25 years of experience in the field of massage and bodywork both in the U.S. and the United Kingdom. She is a graduate of the London School of Aromatherapy and received diplomas in Reflex Touch and Manual Lymphatic Drainage in Professional Practice at Anglia Polytechnic University, U.K. Upon relocating to the U.S., Nicola received extensive training in the field of oncology massage under the instruction of Gayle MacDonald. In 2010, Nicola received her Lymphedema Therapy Certification through Klose Training and Consulting.  She specializes in treating patients with Breast Cancer, Head and Neck Lymphedema. In her clinical practice, Nicola utilizes her bodywork skills as an aromatherapist and MLD practitioner to treat a wide range of medical conditions. Nicola has been on staff at Boulder Community Hospital (BCH) as an Oncology Massage and Lymphedema Therapist. She promotes education and lymphedema risk-reduction practices at cancer support groups and individual treatment sessions while working alongside the Rocky Mountain Cancer Center (RMCC) and the BCH team of healthcare providers. Nicola is also a team member of the Boulder Cancer Survivorship Program at Avanti Therapy where she provides lymphedema education and restorative and comfort-oriented bodywork treatments for individuals undergoing treatments for a cancer diagnosis and those who have completed their treatment. For the past 10 years, she has been an MLD Instructor with Klose Training and Consulting in Colorado.  To learn more about the Society for Oncology Massage (S4OM) visit http://www.s4om.org Follow 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 videos Twitter: S4OM_Org (@s4om_org) / Twitter LinkedIn: Society for Oncology Massage | LinkedIn

    35 min

  7. 08/22/2024

    Ep. 14 - Revolutionizing Skincare: Jojoba Oil's Unique Properties with Brian Morris of The Jojoba Company

    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 Jojoba More about Brian Morris and The Jojoba Company: Shop The Jojoba Company website Brian 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.org Follow 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 videos Twitter: S4OM_Org (@s4om_org) / Twitter LinkedIn: Society for Oncology Massage | LinkedIn

    37 min

  8. 07/24/2024

    Ep. 13 - The Power of Essential Oils in Cancer Care with Rhiannon Lewis

    To learn more about the Society for Oncology Massage (S4OM) visit http://www.s4om.org Follow 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 videos Twitter: S4OM_Org (@s4om_org) / Twitter LinkedIn: Society for Oncology Massage | LinkedIn

    48 min
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5
out of 5
3 Ratings

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The Collaborative Connections podcast explores the intersection between massage therapy and cancer care. Whether you're a massage therapist, specializing in cancer care or an oncology massage educator, this podcast is for you.To learn more about the Society for Oncology Massage, visit S4OM.org.

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