Mike Hinkle founded the World Massage Festival in 2006 after being in the massage industry for 1 year, Mike saw a huge gap in the educational aspect of the field, and a lack in recognition and honor to the pioneers of massage therapy and who those who pour out their hearts being great instructors in the field. Mike recognized the need to honor fantastic therapists throughout time, that many massage therapists would probably never hear of or learn of throughout their time on this earth. Mike’s heart to recognize and acknowledge the history of other therapists was the foundation in the birthing of the World Massage Festival.
After Mike’s first experience at the AMTA convention went over like a lead balloon in Atlanta, GA, being more political than helpful, needing a much needed relaxing and fun atmosphere. This drove Mike to birth the World Massage Festival. The building foundation was to see education and recognition blend into a more chill and fun atmosphere. The first year began just “winging it”, and it was really tight due to low financial support. That first foundation year created a multiplication for the next year where people came back with friends. Every year it multiplied, so much that it got recognition from Ceasar’s to ask him to use their casinos.
The World Massage Festival changed Mike forever through many learning curves and the amount of education he received as a massage therapist. Mike grew into his career alongside the World Massage Festival, making many connections and friends along the way, that he now calls his family. After 18 years of carrying and growing the World Massage Festival, Mike along with his faithful and entrusted side kick Cindy, who has been doing administration for all the festivals, were finally ready to hand off the festival to the next generation. In 2024, they sold the World Massage Festival to Ana Malachowski, who will carry on Mike’s legacy and vision of the festival for as long as she can.
