Back in my high school and college days, I spent quite a bit of time torturing my lower body as a runner. As a competitive runner, I had access to biweekly massages from Boogie (a local running and coaching legend turned restaurateur turned sports massage therapist). Boogie would come by the school after practice two days before a track meet to provide 15-minute tune-ups. If you had a hammy problem, Boogie would go to town to work it out—same thing with a calf, arch of the foot, or glutes. He was an integral part of our team’s success, helping each of us feel less pain and be more able to compete as best we could. 

Now, as an adult runner just trying to stay in some sort of good physical shape, I miss those 15-minute tune-ups from Boogie. And I appreciate what he was able to do even more.  

As the new government relations director for Associated Bodywork & Massage Professionals (ABMP), I reflect on the treatment Boogie provided—his skill, his attention, his care. I know now that what minor competitive running success I had was built not just on my personal preparation and ability, but from the coordinated effort of many people, including those like Boogie. In track and field, athletes compete for both individual and team success. I believe that’s true for this work and yours. 

Government works best when it’s closest to the people, or so the old saying goes. To me, that means I’m here to support and empower you by gathering and digesting regulations, laws, and any proposed changes to them.   

While it’s my job to interact with representative regulatory board members and legislators across the country, I hope you will join me and the ABMP team by advocating for the policy and regulatory changes and updates that matter most to you. I believe we cannot expect government decision-makers to implement laws and regulations in a meaningful way unless you have a seat at the table, which means elevating your voice when it matters most.  

I’m here to help you do that. Whether it’s weighing in on licensure, interstate compacts, or revised regulations, the ABMP team and I will be here to dissect what’s being proposed and arm you with the resources, facts, and direction to advocate for you and your profession.  

As I dig into the massage therapy government relations world, I hope to get to know and partner with you in my work. I hope you lean on us as your resource to better understand what’s happening in your state with rules, regulations, and laws. Together, we’ll ensure you have a seat at the decision-making table in your state.