Greetings and welcome to the Hands Of History Podcast, a production of the Society Of Massage Archives, where we delve into the rich tapestry of massage therapy's past, explore its evolution, and share the stories that have shaped this vital practice.

Join your host, Kirby Clark Ellis, for a conversation with Amanda Baskwill.

Dr. Amanda Baskwill is a massage therapist, educator, and academic leader whose career has been deeply rooted in advancing the profession of massage therapy in Canada and beyond. With over two decades of experience, she has worn many hats: clinician, educator, researcher, author and advocate. Her contributions include curriculum leadership in massage therapy education, government advocacy for professional regulation, and research that bridges clinical practice and evidence-informed care. Amanda’s work has consistently focused on elevating the profession’s visibility, credibility, and integration within broader health systems. Currently serving as the Senior Vice President Academic and Chief Learning Officer at Loyalist College, Amanda continues to support the growth of health and wellness professions through strategic leadership and innovation. She is also the Executive Editor and Editor-in-Chief of the International Journal of Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork (IJTMB), where she champions scholarly work that reflects the complexity and potential of massage therapy. A passionate storyteller and mentor, Amanda brings a reflective lens to her own professional journey and the evolving history of massage therapy, making her an insightful voice in conversations about where the profession has been and where it’s headed.