Rachel Smead, LMT - Co-Founder, Sabai Professional Massage Academy
My name is Rachel Smead, and I am the co-founder of Sabai Professional Massage Academy. My journey in massage therapy began immediately after high school when I attended the Montana School of Massage, graduating in 2004. Over the past 20 years, I’ve had the incredible opportunity to work across the globe—from Europe to various parts of the United States—and finally return to my beloved Montana.
Throughout my career, I’ve dedicated myself to serving those who serve, spending the first six years working on military installations, then onto my own private practice, and the last four years focusing on veteran care through the VA. My specialty is chronic pain management, a field that resonates deeply with my passion for helping veterans. Yet, I also find immense joy in providing care to expecting mothers, offering them comfort during one of the most special times in their lives.
At Sabai, I’m thrilled to be bringing the gift of educated touch to the Bitterroot Valley. This fall, you’ll find me overseeing our student clinic, where I’m eager to share my experience and guide our students as they embark on their own journeys in massage therapy. For me, Sabai is more than just a place to teach—it’s a place to inspire, nurture, and elevate the next generation of massage therapists.
Reina Owen, BCTMB - Education Director, Sabai Professional Massage Academy
My name is Reina Owen, and I have been dedicated to the field of massage and bodywork for 30 years. As a Board Certified therapist with the NCBTMB, I bring a wealth of experience in both hands-on practice and teaching, while continuing to expand my knowledge. Over the years, I’ve developed many specialties, but my true passions lie in working with various stones and practicing manual lymphatic drainage.
I don't plan on retiring anytime soon—in fact, I aspire to be the oldest massage therapist still actively working in the world. I absolutely love what I do and am grateful to be living my passion every day.
In addition to my hands-on expertise, I earned my Associate’s degree in Business Management in 1987 and graduated from the Montana School of Massage in 2009. When I'm not massaging, you'll find me chasing waterfalls and sunsets, tending to my flower garden, experimenting in the kitchen, or capturing beautiful moments through photography.
Karen L. Fisher, LMT, BCTMB - Instructor, Sabai Professional Massage Academy
Karen L. Fisher, LMT, BCTMB - Instructor, Sabai Professional Massage Academy
Originally from New York and raised in New Jersey, I relocated to Missoula, Montana, in 2008. I began my massage journey in 2003, graduating from Somerset School of Massage Therapy as Practical Valedictorian. I later earned my Board Certification with the NCBTMB in 2015.
Throughout my career, I've worked alongside renowned instructors like Brian Smith, serving the Rutgers Swimming and Diving team, and providing massage therapy for fundraising events like the Airline Ride Across America. Before moving to Montana, I ran my own massage practice in New Jersey, Body Essential Therapeutic Massage, for five years.
In Missoula, I taught Kinesiology, Deep Tissue, and Sports Massage at the Montana School of Massage for several years. My passion for continuous learning has led me to certifications in Neuromuscular Therapy, Myofascial Release, and Reiki, as well as specialized training in Craniosacral Therapy, Reflexology, and Manual Lymphatic Drainage.
Outside the classroom, I’m an avid runner and horse enthusiast. I've competed in over 20 half marathons in national parks like Glacier and Yellowstone, and I’m excited to explore Montana’s landscape through various outdoor activities. I’m also a certified equine sport massage therapist, reflecting my deep love for both human and animal well-being.
At Sabai, I’m thrilled to pass on my knowledge and passion to the next generation of massage therapists.
Brandi Hyatt, LMT - Instructor, Sabai Professional Massage Academy
Hi, I’m Brandi, a Licensed Massage Therapist, owner of Hyatt Hands Massage Therapy, and a Certified Surgical Technologist. For the past 18 years, I’ve had the privilege of practicing massage in Missoula and across Montana, alongside my work as a surgical technologist at the Family Maternity Center at St. Patrick Hospital.
Originally born in Texas, my family moved to Montana when I was just 14 months old. I grew up as a ranch kid in Frenchtown and graduated from Frenchtown High School in 2001. I've been married to my husband Jason for 21 years, and together we have two wonderful boys, Aiden (20) and Gaven (17). We’ve raised our boys here in Montana, where we spend our free time outdoors, fishing, hunting, foraging, gardening, and hiking. Our family is always on the go, but when we do find downtime, we enjoy camping, photography, playing card and board games, cuddling with our dog on the couch, and watching movies.
While I appreciate all aspects of massage, my true passion lies in anatomy and medical-based massage therapy. I’m dedicated to helping facilitate healing for those suffering from injuries or long-term chronic pain. I believe in the power of lifelong learning and strive for growth both professionally and personally every day. I’m excited to share my passion with others and to contribute to the healing journey of those in our community.
“Knowledge comes from learning. Wisdom comes from living”—I aim to do both.
Madeline Johnson, DPT - Instructor, Sabai Professional Massage Academy
Madeline Johnson is a Montana native and Doctor of Physical Therapy with over 10 years of experience in the field. She earned her doctorate from the University of Montana in 2017 and holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Fitness Evaluation and Programming from Boise State University. Her practice is focused on manual therapies and exercise prescription, with specialized training in oncology rehabilitation and lymphedema management.
Madeline has completed advanced education through the Herman and Wallace Pelvic Rehabilitation Institute and the North American Institute of Orthopedic Manual Therapy, allowing her to provide comprehensive care for a wide range of physical conditions. She also integrates dry needling into her practice, a technique she finds particularly effective in improving pain, function, and mobility.
Madeline and her husband Todd live in the Bitterroot Valley, where they enjoy the great outdoors, from cross-country skiing in the winter to paddleboarding in the summer. In her free time, she loves photography, travel, gardening, and exploring everything Montana has to offer.
Tim Smead, Co-Founder, Sabai Professional Massage Academy
My name is Tim Smead, and I am the co-founder of Sabai Professional Massage Academy. I may not be a massage therapist, but I bring a wealth of experience in business and entrepreneurship, driven by a deep passion for inspiring and empowering others to build the life they’ve always dreamed of. Together with Rachel, I’ve had the privilege of helping her grow her practice into a thriving success, and I take immense pride in having built Sabai Professional Massage Academy from the ground up with her.
In my role at Sabai, I’m here to support our incredible staff and students every step of the way. My mission is clear: to encourage, empower, and inspire our students, and doing my part in help to equip them with the skills and confidence they need to thrive in their careers. With a visionary mindset, I’m captivated by the challenge of building sustainable systems that stand the test of time. Creating an inclusive and nurturing environment isn’t just a goal; it’s a commitment I live by every day.
Outside of Sabai, you’ll find me exploring the great outdoors, traveling, and embracing the spontaneity of life. I’m a lifelong student, always seeking new ways to bring creativity, out-of-the-box thinking, and an unwavering commitment to excellence into everything I do.
As I continue to innovate and expand Sabai Professional Massage Academy, my purpose remains steadfast: to keep our school at the forefront of massage therapy education, ensuring that every student who walks through our doors leaves ready for a successful and fulfilling career.
Sabai is not just a place to receive a quality education; it’s a place where creativity can flourish, innovation can thrive, and we continuously seek to elevate ourselves and those around us.
