Episode 35: From Panic to Peace: How Michelle 2x’d Her Physio Clinic with Google

There’s a lot of pressure on business owners to rely on referrals, word-of-mouth, or social media to keep bookings coming in, but what happens when those channels disappear overnight?

In this episode of Diary of the Search Queen, I’m joined by Michelle Murphy, owner of Mercy Physio, & Baby Swim, for a grounded and honest conversation about visibility, resilience, and why Google became the backbone of her business growth.

Michelle took over the clinic just as a major referral pathway closed, wiping out a once-reliable stream of new clients. Instead of panicking, discounting, or burning herself out trying to be everywhere at once, she made a strategic decision to invest in being found, and it changed everything.

Because here’s the truth:

Referrals aren’t guaranteed

Social media is unpredictable

And if your business isn’t visible on Google, you’re invisible to people actively searching for your services

This episode is for service-based business owners who want stability, predictability, and growth, without burning out or relying on luck.

In this episode, we cover:

1. Why Google became the primary growth channel after referrals disappeared
2. How strategic Google Ads and SEO led to a 40% increase in business over two years
3. Why visibility creates peace of mind, not just leads
4. How adding new services, and making them searchable, unlocked new revenue
5. The emotional and lifestyle impact of predictable bookings on business owners and their families

This episode is for you if:

1. You’ve relied heavily on referrals and now feel exposed or uncertain
2. You know your service is exceptional but feel invisible online
3. You want consistent bookings without discounting or chasing clients
4. You’re ready to build a business that can withstand change

About Michelle Murphy

Michelle Murphy is a Titled Pelvic Health Physiotherapist with over 20 years of clinical experience. She is the owner of Mercy Physiotherapy & Baby Swim, leading a team of 23 staff, and the founder of Glow Pelvic Health, an education platform supporting health and fitness professionals working with women.

Michelle is deeply passionate about empowering women to live active, vibrant lives through every stage of life, and is committed to mentoring and collaborating with other professionals to create meaningful community impact. A mother of two young children, she is a lifelong learner who believes in doing purposeful work, and enjoying the journey along the way.

Want more?

Book A Call for Salon Scaling System

Buy The Search for Resilience: Amazon Link

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Follow me on Instagram: @sonjathesearchqueen

Visit: sonjathesearchqueen.com

Follow Michelle:

website: www.mercyphysio.com.au

Social Media account: @mercy_physio

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