Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Melinda Newton. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Alright, Melinda thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. We’d love to hear the backstory of how you established your own practice.

Truth be told, owning my own business was never really on my mind until after having my child. After spending 11 fulfilling years with Massage Envy, I reached a point where I desired more control over my time with both family and work, the direction of my work, and the ability to adjust my schedule to fit the needs of my life. I wanted to create a space where I could fully embrace my passion for massage therapy and explore new possibilities.

Taking the leap to become an independent contractor was the first step towards achieving this goal. It allowed me to have more flexibility and autonomy in my schedule, which was incredibly liberating. During those two years, I immersed myself in various aspects of the industry, constantly seeking opportunities to grow and refine my skills.

Then, a remarkable opportunity presented itself – the chance to open my own massage space. This was a turning point that allowed me to fully enjoy the benefits of running my own business. I was able to shape the environment according to my vision, create a welcoming space for clients, and provide personalized experiences.

One of the most exciting aspects of running my own business has been diving into the realm of social media. Through platforms like Instagram and Facebook, I have been able to connect with a wider audience and educate my followers about the profound impact of massage therapy in everyday life. It’s been incredibly rewarding to share my knowledge, debunk myths, and inspire others to prioritize self-care.

Having the freedom to explore these possibilities and engage with my audience on social media has truly enriched my entrepreneurial journey. It has allowed me to combine my passion for massage therapy with my love for connecting with people, creating a fulfilling and purposeful career.

Breaking out into my own business after 11 years with Massage Envy has given me the control over my personal time and work direction that I desired. Through independent contracting and eventually opening my own space, I have been able to fully enjoy the benefits of running my own business and explore the exciting realm of social media, where I connect and educate my followers on the wonders of massage therapy in everyday life.

Melinda, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

I have had a deep-rooted connection to massage therapy. This connection began to form at a young age when I encountered a swim injury. I tore several rotator cuff muscles, on both shoulders at the same time. The surgeon who consulted on my injury agreed that with my age and the clean tears in my muscles, that surgery would not be the best option for my healing. They wanted me to explore massage therapy and physical therapy to encourage proper healing and strengthening the muscles that would support me.

Around this same time, I also witnessed their mother’s battle with Fibromyalgia, a condition characterized by chronic pain. The same massage therapist who was helping me with my shoulders, also started helping my mother on her journey. Witnessing the positive impact of massage therapy on my mother’s well-being, I became even more intrigued by the potential benefits it held. The therapist helped me to learn different techniques to help my mother at home in between sessions and a spark was lit.

Interestingly, my initial career aspirations led me to a different path. I had always dreamt of becoming a high school history teacher, with a passion for educating and inspiring young minds. However, fate had other plans for me. My dorm housed not only the Education Learning Community but also the Athletic Training Community. I found myself more and more fascinated with healing and how the body works.

As I delved deeper into the world of healing, my interest grew exponentially. I found myself irresistibly drawn to the massage industry, continually seeking knowledge and understanding of its therapeutic potential. The more I learned, the clearer it became that massage therapy resonated deeply with my desire to help others and make a positive impact on their lives.

I embarked on the journey to become a massage therapist, finding out that the best school in the state of Ohio actually was located in my home town, 1 mile away from my mother’s house. After many discussions (and bargains) I eventually convinced my parents to allow me to live in their home and attend the school down the street. The schooling in Ohio at the time dictated that massage therapy students complete no less than 750 clock hours during their 1 year program. It was a grueling time but I dedicated myself to honing skills in pain management and therapeutic work. My mission was to alleviate discomfort and enhance the overall well-being of my future clients through the healing power of touch.

One thing that I’m truly proud of and that I believe sets me apart in this industry is my unwavering commitment to building authentic relationships with their clients. I believe that true healing goes beyond the physical aspect and extends to emotional and mental well-being. My approach each client with empathy, understanding, and a genuine desire to make a difference in their lives.

Through my personalized approach, I have cultivated a loyal client base that extends far beyond business transactions. I take immense pride in the fact that my success is not measured solely by monetary gains, but rather by the genuine connections I have forged with my clients.

Building my business on trust, compassion, and mutual respect, I have created a haven where clients feel safe, heard, and understood. My clients not only seek my expertise in pain management but also confide in me as a trusted confidant and ally on their journey to wellness.

As a massage therapist, I feel I have become a beacon of hope for those in need of relief from physical ailments. My dedication to my craft and my clients shines through in every session, as I employ my skills and knowledge to bring comfort and healing to my clients.

In my journey into massage therapy and business ownership, I have found my true calling. I have discovered a passion that allows me to make a profound impact on the lives of others. Through my dedication to pain management and therapeutic work, I continue to transform the well-being of my clients, one massage at a time.

I take great pride in the fact that their business thrives not only on professional expertise but on the genuine relationships I have cultivated. My clients are not just customers; they are cherished members of an extended family that has been built on trust, care, and compassion.

And so, my journey into massage therapy stands as a testament to the power of personal experiences, a burning desire to help others, and the profound impact of true, genuine relationships. I have found my purpose, and in doing so, I have brought comfort, healing, and joy to the lives of many.

What’s a lesson you had to unlearn and what’s the backstory?

One lesson I’ve had to unlearn is the thought process that I owed my body and my time to my clients and my work. Working at Massage Envy, if you’re good at your job and retain clientele, you’re a workhorse to bring in as much profit for the company as possible. Don’t get me wrong, I made good money and enjoyed the majority of my work there, but I completely lacked boundaries with what the business wanted from me and what I felt I owed to them. When you are in a situation like that, it is easy to be seen as a “pair of hands” and not a real person, with real things going on in your life. To this day, I am still unlearning to not feel guilty for needing a day off for personal reasons. I have truly cultivated a group of clients who fully appreciate me, my life, and the relief I bring to them.

Any advice for growing your clientele? What’s been most effective for you?

The most effective tool for growing my clientele has 100% been word of mouth. My clients love and appreciate my approach to their healing, so naturally they are going to speak about it and refer their friends and family to me.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: www.instagram.com/massagebymelinda419/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100064109860462