Today we’d like to introduce you to Stephanie McBride.
Stephanie, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I am a licensed massage therapist and the creator of Grounding Gear, a weighted compression pack I developed in 2018 to support clients recovering from injuries and to help calm the nervous system.
As I continued using Grounding Gear in clinical practice, I observed that it also appeared to support lymphatic flow while helping reduce inflammation. These observations have expanded the ways I integrate the packs into therapeutic bodywork.
Today, Grounding Gear is used in workout classes at RoseVilla Senior Living Community. On October 16, 2026, I will be presenting at Portland Community College, where I’ll share the development of Grounding Gear, the principles behind weighted compression, and practical applications for massage therapists seeking additional tools to support client care.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
My biggest struggle has been marketing—reaching the right people at the right time. Developing Grounding Gear came naturally because it grew out of my work as a massage therapist and a desire to help my clients. Marketing it, however, has been a completely different challenge.
I’ve learned that creating an effective product is only part of the journey. The other part is educating people about its benefits and connecting with the practitioners and individuals who can benefit most. Every opportunity to share my knowledge, whether it’s through presentations, workshops, or demonstrations, has helped me reach the right audience. It’s an ongoing learning process, but each step has strengthened both my business and my confidence as an educator and entrepreneur.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
Grounding Gear was born out of my work as a massage therapist. In 2018, I created a weighted compression pack because I wanted a better way to help clients recover from injuries, reduce discomfort, and calm their nervous systems. As I continued using it in my practice, I observed additional benefits, including support for lymphatic flow and reduced inflammation, which expanded how I incorporated it into treatment.
What sets Grounding Gear apart is that it wasn’t designed in a boardroom—it was developed hands-on in a treatment room, refined through years of working with real clients and listening to their feedback. Every design decision has been guided by comfort, function, and therapeutic application.
Today, Grounding Gear is used beyond my private practice. It is incorporated into classes at RoseVilla, and I have the privilege of sharing my knowledge with other massage therapists through educational presentations, including an upcoming presentation at Portland Community College. Helping other practitioners discover practical, non-invasive tools they can use to support their clients is one of the most rewarding parts of my work.
What I’m most proud of isn’t simply creating a product—it’s creating something that helps people feel better. Whether someone is recovering from an injury, seeking relaxation, or looking for gentle support as part of their wellness routine, my goal has always been to provide a simple, effective tool that promotes comfort, healing, and well-being.
I want readers to know that Grounding Gear is more than a product. It’s the result of years of clinical experience, curiosity, and a genuine commitment to helping people. My mission is to continue educating practitioners and empowering individuals with therapeutic tools that support the body’s natural healing processes.
Where we are in life is often partly because of others. Who/what else deserves credit for how your story turned out?
I definitely haven’t done this alone. During the early development of Grounding Gear, Dr. Pleau was an incredible mentor. He believed in the concept from the beginning and encouraged me to continue developing it when he experienced the first prototype. His support gave me the confidence to keep moving forward and exploring its potential.
I’m also deeply grateful to my family and friends. They have been my biggest supporters, volunteering to use Grounding Gear, sharing honest feedback, and allowing me to document their experiences and outcomes. Their willingness to be part of this journey has been invaluable.
Over the years, I’ve become a bit obsessed—in the best way—with learning everything I can about the body, the nervous system, and how weighted compression can support healing and well-being. My family, friends, clients, and colleagues have patiently listened as I’ve shared each new discovery and insight. Their encouragement has fueled my curiosity and reminded me that this work has the potential to make a meaningful difference in people’s lives.
Every person who has trusted me, supported my ideas, or encouraged me to keep asking questions has played a role in Grounding Gear’s story. I’m incredibly grateful for all of them.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://GroundingGear.Org
- Instagram: @stephaniemcbride207
- Facebook: Grounding Gear & You
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephanie-mcbride-361427206
- Youtube: @stephaniemcbride9837
