In this episode, Michael speaks with James Loveday, one of the most experienced voices in the NDIS sector, about the real challenges behind disability support work.

They explore what it’s like to work in the NDIS while living with neurodiversity and mental health struggles. James shares his personal journey through burnout, addiction, and masking—along with practical ways support workers, BDMs and leaders can create safer, more supportive workplaces.

Topics covered include:

How neurodivergent support workers are affected by workplace isolation

The hidden impact of masking in the NDIS sector

Why most KPIs no longer make sense for NDIS providers

What types of events are actually worth attending

How lived experience can shape better NDIS service delivery

Why we need to focus on staff wellbeing, not just compliance

If you're an NDIS provider, business owner, BDM, or support coordinator, this is a must-watch conversation about the reality of working in disability support today.

Visit https://athletickoala.com.au
Connect with James Loveday: https://www.linkedin.com/in/james-loveday-0a60b119b/

#NDIS #DisabilitySupport #SupportWorkers #Neurodiversity #MentalHealth #NDISProviders #NDISBusiness #DisabilitySector #NDISLeadership

Is growing your NDIS business always the right move?

In this honest and practical conversation, Michael speaks with Vanessa Norman, a former NDIS provider who built a successful business, then chose to walk away. They unpack the realities of scaling in the NDIS sector, from burnout and financial strain to identity loss and the pressure to look successful.

Vanessa shares the turning points that led her to leave her business, the impact on her health and family, and why helping others build sustainable, profitable NDIS businesses has become her new mission.

If you're running an NDIS business, feeling the weight of responsibility, or wondering whether it's time to shift your strategy, this episode offers real insight and grounded advice.

What You'll Learn:

Why bigger doesn’t always mean better in NDIS

How burnout can creep in without warning

The truth about referrals, results, and profitability

Letting go of shame when stepping back

What matters most when the business is gone

Vanessa now helps NDIS business owners simplify, stabilise, and refocus. Learn more at vanessanorman.com.au

#NDIS #NDISProvider #VanessaNorman #NDISCoaching #BusinessBurnout #NDISReferrals #ScalingNDIS #NDISLeadership #NDISSupport #NDISBusinessChat #MichaelFromLinkedIn

Kezia didn’t just grow fast—she did it differently. In just 15 months, she went from a solo OT to leading a thriving NDIS business with 17 staff, 80 clients, a leafy green expo garden… and zero interest in playing by boring provider rules.

In this energising and refreshingly honest episode, Kezia shares how she:

– Grew Staying Independent into a standout NDIS business
– Built an integrated outcomes model that connects support workers and allied health
– Balances business, parenting, and flipping houses
– Avoids beige branding and brings bold energy to every event
– Leads with curiosity, gratitude, and no time for whingeing

Whether you’re an NDIS provider, team leader, or just trying to figure out how to grow without losing yourself, this conversation is full of real talk, practical tips, and big laughs.

Perfect for providers who want to work smarter, lead braver, and still get home in time for Uber Eats.

Learn more about Kezia and Staying Independent: https://www.stayingindependent.com.au
Follow Kezia on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/keziakingston/
Tag a provider who needs to hear this!

#NDIS #NDISProvider #AlliedHealth #OccupationalTherapy #SupportWorkers #BusinessLeadership #WomenInBusiness #DisabilitySupport #Kezia #StayingIndependent #NDISAustralia #NDISBusinessTips