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. Apr 20

    Understanding Lymphatics and Clinical Confidence with Nicola McGill | Healing Summit Speaker Series

    What if everything you thought you knew about the lymphatic system… wasn’t quite right? In this episode of the Healing Summit Speaker Series, we sit down with Nicola McGill to explore the misconceptions surrounding lymphatics, the subtle power of manual lymphatic drainage, and why education is the key to clinical confidence. This conversation offers a glimpse into her upcoming session at the 2026 Virtual Oncology Massage & Esthetics Healing Summit. 🔹 WHAT YOU’LL LEARNWhy the lymphatic system is widely misunderstood in both medicine and massage therapyThe truth behind “detox” and what the lymphatic system actually doesCommon myths clinicians believe about lymphatic drainageThe difference between general massage and true manual lymphatic drainage (MLD)How subtle techniques can create meaningful clinical outcomesWhy education is essential for building confidence in this work 🔹 ABOUT THE GUESTNicola McGill, LLSA, LMT, CLT-LANA, is a clinician and educator with over 30 years of experience in manual lymphatic drainage and oncology care. She is known for helping practitioners deepen their understanding of the lymphatic system and apply precise, effective techniques that support patients with complex conditions. 🔹 CONNECT TO SUMMIT (CTA)This conversation continues at the 2026 Virtual Oncology Massage & Esthetics Healing Summit 🗓 April 26, 2026 🕐 1:00–7:30 PM ET 👉 Explore the full summit + agenda: https://www.s4om.org/education/virtual-in-person-summits/2026-oncology-massage-esthetics-healing-summit/ 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

    11 min
  2. Scars, Fibrosis, and Rethinking “Fixing” with Cathy Ryan | Healing Summit Speaker Series.

    Apr 13

    Scars, Fibrosis, and Rethinking “Fixing” with Cathy Ryan | Healing Summit Speaker Series.

    What if scars aren’t something to “fix” — but something to understand? In this episode of the Healing Summit Speaker Series, we sit down with Catherine Ryan to explore the story scars tell, the science of fibrosis, and why shifting from fixing to listening can transform clinical outcomes. This conversation offers a glimpse into her upcoming session at the 2026 Virtual Oncology Massage & Esthetics Healing Summit. 🔹 WHAT YOU’LL LEARN Why scars hold both physical and personal meaning The biggest myths about fibrosis — and what the science actually supports Why “breaking up scar tissue” is an outdated concept How to approach scar work with curiosity instead of assumption The role of listening and therapeutic alliance in effective care 🔹 ABOUT THE GUEST Catherine Ryan is an educator, researcher, and manual therapist known for her work in scar tissue and post-surgical care. She brings a science-informed, patient-centered approach to manual therapy, helping clinicians rethink long-held assumptions and deepen their clinical reasoning. 🔹 CONNECT TO SUMMIT (CTA) This conversation continues at the 2026 Virtual Oncology Massage & Esthetics Healing Summit 🗓 April 26, 2026 🕐 1:00–7:30 PM ET 👉 Explore the full summit + agenda: https://www.s4om.org/education/virtual-in-person-summits/2026-oncology-massage-esthetics-healing-summit/ 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

    11 min
  3. Head & Neck Cancer, Clinical Confidence, and the Power of Touch with Holly McMillan | Healing Summit Speaker Series.

    Apr 6

    Head & Neck Cancer, Clinical Confidence, and the Power of Touch with Holly McMillan | Healing Summit Speaker Series.

    What if the areas clinicians are most afraid to treat are the ones that could benefit the most from skilled, informed touch? In this episode of the Healing Summit Speaker Series, we sit down with Holly McMillan to explore the complexities of head and neck cancer care, the role of manual therapy, and how education can shift clinicians from fear to confidence. This conversation offers a glimpse into Holly’s upcoming session at the 2026 Virtual Oncology Massage & Esthetics Healing Summit. 🔹 WHAT YOU’LL LEARNWhy head and neck cancer is one of the most complex areas to treatCommon fears clinicians have — and what the evidence actually saysHow manual therapy can improve quality of life in meaningful waysThe importance of understanding contraindications and clinical reasoningHow confidence and collaboration can move the field forward 🔹 ABOUT THE GUESTHolly McMillan is a speech-language pathologist and massage therapist specializing in head and neck cancer care. Her work focuses on evidence-based, integrative approaches that improve function, reduce symptom burden, and support patients navigating complex oncology treatments. 🔹 CONNECT TO SUMMIT (CTA)This conversation continues at the 2026 Virtual Oncology Massage & Esthetics Healing Summit 🗓 April 26, 2026 🕐 1:00–7:30 PM ET 👉 Explore the full summit + agenda: https://www.s4om.org/education/virtual-in-person-summits/2026-oncology-massage-esthetics-healing-summit/ 🔹 LISTEN TO MORE IN THE SERIESNew episodes are released weekly leading up to the summit. 👉 Follow the series on your favorite podcast platform 👉 Or explore more at S4OM.org Subscribe for more conversations in oncology massage & esthetics and follow the full Healing Summit Speaker Series. 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

    9 min
  4. Collaboration, Sustainability, and Advocacy in Oncology Massage with Cara Thurman | Healing Summit Speaker Series

    Mar 30

    Collaboration, Sustainability, and Advocacy in Oncology Massage with Cara Thurman | Healing Summit Speaker Series

    What does it take to build a sustainable, compassionate practice in oncology massage — not just for clients, but for practitioners too? In this special Healing Summit Speaker Series episode, we sit down with Cara Thurman to explore the power of collaboration, the importance of support systems in clinical work, and what it really looks like to integrate massage therapy into healthcare settings. This conversation is part of our lead-up to the 2026 Virtual Oncology Massage & Esthetics Healing Summit.  🔹 WHAT YOU’LL LEARN How personal health experiences can shape a career in oncology careWhy collaboration is essential for sustainability in this workThe emotional and professional realities of working with medically fragile clientsWhat intentional support looks like inside a clinical practiceHow advocacy is evolving within the massage therapy profession 🔹 ABOUT THE GUEST Cara Thurman is the founder of Vinings Massage and Wellness in Atlanta and an NCBTMB-certified educator in oncology massage therapy. She has built programs that integrate massage into hospital systems and works to create sustainable, supportive environments for therapists in clinical settings. 🔹 CONNECT TO SUMMIT This conversation continues at the 2026 Virtual Oncology Massage & Esthetics Healing Summit 🗓 April 26, 2026 🕐 1:00–7:30 PM ET 👉 Explore the full summit + agenda: https://www.s4om.org/education/virtual-in-person-summits/2026-oncology-massage-esthetics-healing-summit/ 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

    21 min
  5. Mindful Awareness in Body-Oriented Therapies with Cynthia Price | Healing Summit Series

    Mar 23

    Mindful Awareness in Body-Oriented Therapies with Cynthia Price | Healing Summit Series

    What role does mindful awareness play in how we support the body through cancer care? In this special Healing Summit Speaker Series episode, we sit down with Cynthia Price to explore how interoceptive awareness can deepen clinical practice, support healing, and transform the way we show up for our clients. This conversation is part of our lead-up to the 2026 Virtual Oncology Massage & Esthetics Healing Summit. 🔹 WHAT YOU’LL LEARNWhat interoceptive awareness is — and why it matters in body-oriented therapiesHow mindfulness can support clients navigating cancer and recoveryPractical ways to integrate awareness-based approaches into your sessionsThe connection between presence, regulation, and therapeutic outcomes🔹 ABOUT THE GUESTCynthia Price, PhD, MA, LMT, is a researcher, educator, and massage therapist known for her work in interoceptive awareness and body-oriented therapies. Her research focuses on the role of mindfulness and body awareness in health, healing, and clinical outcomes. 🔹 CONNECT TO SUMMIT (CTA)This conversation continues at the 2026 Virtual Oncology Massage & Esthetics Healing Summit 🗓 April 26, 2026 🕐 1:00–7:30 PM ET 👉 Explore the full summit + agenda: https://www.s4om.org/education/virtual-in-person-summits/2026-oncology-massage-esthetics-healing-summit/ 🔹 LISTEN TO MORE IN THE SERIESNew episodes are released weekly leading up to the summit. 👉 Follow the series on your favorite podcast platform 👉 Or explore more at S4OM.org 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

    11 min

  6. 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

  7. 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

  8. 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
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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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