The SILosophy’s Podcast

In this episode of SILosophy, Tania Gomez sits down with Ollie Vles, founder and CEO of Strength in Care, to discuss the complexities of managing challenging behaviours in SIL homes. Ollie shares his unique approach to participant support, staffing strategies, property management, and the importance of creating the right environment for success.   Episode Highlights: 00:00 – Welcome back to SILosophy with Ollie Vles from Strength in Care 02:20 – Common challenges in managing complex behaviours in SIL homes 05:10 – Why the physical environment is a critical factor in reducing incidents 07:45 – Proactive measures to minimise behaviours (reducing anxiety, structuring environments) 10:20 – The importance of long-term, well-supported staff in behaviour management 13:00 – Recruiting & retaining staff for high-needs participants 16:30 – Best practices for communication between staff & participants 19:50 – Managing property damage & dealing with housing limitations 22:15 – Tips for handling reportable incidents & restrictive practices 24:00 – Final thoughts on supporting participants with complex needs   Follow Tania Gomez Consulting on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/taniagomezconsulting/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/taniagomezconsulting/ LinkedIn: https://au.linkedin.com/company/tania-gomez-consulting   Or you can also visit our website: http://www.taniagomez.com.au/   #silosophy, #taniagomezconsulting, #complexparticipants, #ndis, #supportwork, #disabilitysupport, #ndissupport, #inclusivepractice, #ndisprovider, #silproviders, #supportcoordination, #disabilitycare, #ndiscommunity, #participantcare

In this episode of SILosophy, Tania Gomez speaks with Bruce Bromley, a leading expert in SDA design and fire safety, to explore the critical importance of fire safety in SIL homes. They discuss common risks, essential fire safety measures, and how SIL providers can proactively improve emergency planning to protect participants and reduce liability.   Episode Highlights: 00:00 – Welcome back to SILosophy with Bruce Bromley from SDA Consulting 02:05 – The biggest fire safety risks in SIL homes 04:30 – Why most SIL homes don’t meet fire safety regulations 07:15 – The importance of fire sprinklers & why they should be standard 09:40 – Fire safety investments: Costs vs. long-term liability 12:20 – How to create an effective emergency plan for a SIL home 14:45 – What to include in a Personal Emergency Evacuation Plan (PEEP) 17:00 – Why building relationships with local fire departments is a game-changer 18:50 – The role of fire blankets, smoke alarms & evacuation kits in SIL homes 20:00 – Final thoughts on reducing risk & improving fire safety   Follow Tania Gomez Consulting on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/taniagomezconsulting/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/taniagomezconsulting/ LinkedIn: https://au.linkedin.com/company/tania-gomez-consulting   Or you can also visit our website: http://www.taniagomez.com.au/   #firesafety, #sil, #safetyintegritylevel, #taniagomezconsulting, #processsafety, #silcertification, #firesafetytraining, #industrialfiresafety, #firesafetytips, #functionalSafety, #firesafetystandards, #firesafetyawareness, #firesafetymanagement, #firesafetyengineering, #firesafetyepisode22

In this episode of SILosophy, Tania Gomez sits down with Storm Menzies, an expert in NDIS funding and SIL participant support, to discuss how SIL providers can proactively ensure participants receive the right funding for their needs. Storm shares insider tips, advocacy strategies, and practical steps for navigating the funding review process.   Episode Highlights: 00:00 – Welcome back to SILosophy with Storm Menzies 02:10 – Storm’s background in SIL, support coordination, and allied health 05:20 – The #1 mistake SIL providers make in securing participant funding 07:30 – Why evidence is everything – What NDIS needs to approve funding 10:15 – The importance of proactive documentation & early planning for reviews 13:00 – How to advocate for funding increases – strategies that work 16:45 – Going beyond emails – Why in-person advocacy & local MPs can make a difference 19:20 – How to prepare for NDIS plan reviews & what’s changed in 2024 21:10 – Final tips: Organisation & collaboration are key to funding success   Follow Tania Gomez Consulting on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/taniagomezconsulting/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/taniagomezconsulting/ LinkedIn: https://au.linkedin.com/company/tania-gomez-consulting   Or you can also visit our website: http://www.taniagomez.com.au/   #silhosophy #episode21 #taniagomez #taniagomezconsulting #ndisfunding #ndissupport #ndisprovider #participantfunding #ndishelp #fundingforparticipants #ndisepisode #ndisadvice #ndisconsulting #ndissupportcoordination #ndisfundinghelp

In this episode of SILosophy, Tania Gomez welcomes Josh Byron, Co-Founder of Spendable, to discuss the complexities of managing client funds in SIL homes. With his background as a SIL provider, Josh shares key insights on financial transparency, risk management, and the role of assistive technology in empowering participants.   Episode Highlights: 00:00 – Welcome back to SILosophy with Josh Byron from Spendable 02:30 – Josh’s journey from running a SIL service provider to founding Spendable 04:50 – Why managing client funds in SIL is an unspoken burden on providers 08:20 – Major financial risks for SIL providers & the impact of missing funds 12:10 – The dangers of using cash & manual record-keeping – high risk of errors & compliance issues 15:45 – How lack of transparency can lead to financial mismanagement & potential fraud 18:30 – Why business expense tools don’t work for client funds & create accounting complications 21:15 – How Spendable helps providers and participants by offering secure, transparent money management 24:30 – How financial independence improves participant choice & control 28:00 – The future of SIL financial management – technology, automation, and capacity-building 30:20 – Final thoughts: Why every SIL provider needs a secure, compliant money management system   Follow Tania Gomez Consulting on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/taniagomezconsulting/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/taniagomezconsulting/ LinkedIn: https://au.linkedin.com/company/tania-gomez-consulting   Or you can also visit our website: http://www.taniagomez.com.au/   #silosophy, #episode20, #spendable, #taniagomezconsulting, #managingmoney, #propertymanagement, #supportedindependentliving, #silfunding, #ndisprovider, #ndissupport, #ndisproperty, #ndisfinance, #silhousing, #moneytips, #disabilitysupport

In this episode of SILosophy, Tania Gomez sits down with Stephen Fakeney, CEO of Hilltop Caring, to explore what it really takes to be a successful SIL provider. With over 25 years in disability accommodation and experience in both the construction and service delivery sides of SIL, Stephen shares valuable lessons for new and existing providers, covering financial sustainability, innovation, collaboration, and the future of SIL in 2025.   Episode Highlights: 00:00 – Welcome back to SILosophy with guest Stephen Fakeney from Hilltop Caring 02:15 – Stephen’s 25-year journey in disability accommodation & SIL 04:30 – How SIL has evolved under the NDIS – More choice, competition & innovation 08:20 – Tight funding margins in SIL & how to balance financial sustainability 10:45 – Vacancies are the biggest financial risk – How to manage them effectively 13:30 – Challenges of bureaucracy & NDIS admin workload 16:50 – Why small & medium-sized SIL providers drive innovation in the sector 19:10 – Advice for new SIL providers – Consider collaborating instead of going solo 21:00 – The importance of empowering staff to make decisions & reducing micromanagement 23:10 – Preparing for unannounced audits & the importance of compliance checklists 24:30 – The future of SIL in 2025 – Potential changes & how to adapt   Follow Tania Gomez Consulting on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/taniagomezconsulting/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/taniagomezconsulting/ LinkedIn: https://au.linkedin.com/company/tania-gomez-consulting   Or you can also visit our website: http://www.taniagomez.com.au/   #silosophy, #supportedindependentliving, #silproviders, #ndis, #ndisaustralia, #hilltopcaring, #taniagomezconsulting, #siljourney, #disabilitysupport, #ndissupport, #groupaccommodation, #specialistdisabilityaccommodation, #disabilityservices, #silproviderstories, #ndisprovider

In this episode of SILosophy, Tania Gomez is joined by Jackson Dyer from DLA Piper to unpack the layers of regulation impacting SIL providers across different Australian states. They explore how federal, state, and even local council regulations overlap—and sometimes contradict each other—making compliance a challenge for providers.   Episode Highlights: 00:00 – Welcome back to SILosophy with guest Jackson Dyer from DLA Piper 02:10 – Why SIL providers must comply with multiple layers of regulation 04:45 – State-based disability laws & how they differ across Australia 07:30 – Council-level regulations – Why they vary & how to check local requirements 10:15 – Restrictive practices & worker screening laws – How state rules interact with NDIS requirements 14:20 – How state and federal laws overlap & where the NDIS Act takes precedence 18:50 – What happens if a provider unknowingly breaks a local council rule? 22:00 – The risk of fines and penalties at different levels of government 25:40 – How to push back against auditors when there’s a legal contradiction 30:15 – NDIS Price Guide vs. Legislation – How much legal weight does the price guide carry? 34:10 – Why NDIS rule changes happen overnight & how to stay ahead 37:00 – Final tips on compliance & how to stay updated on regulatory changes   Follow Tania Gomez Consulting on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/taniagomezconsulting/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/taniagomezconsulting/ LinkedIn: https://au.linkedin.com/company/tania-gomez-consulting   Or you can also visit our website: http://www.taniagomez.com.au/   #silosophy, #episode18, #silproviders, #taniagomezconsulting, #supportindependentliving, #ndis, #ndissupport, #ndisprovider, #ndisrules, #ndisconsulting, #ndisregistration, #statebasedrules, #silprovidersupport, #ndisaustralia, #silfunding

In this episode of SILosophy, Tania Gomez is joined by Josh Pix from Resolv to break down SIL profitability—why many SIL providers aren’t making money despite large plan values and what they can do to fix it.   Episode Highlights: 00:00 – Welcome back to SILosophy with guest Josh Pix from Resolv 02:20 – Why SIL profitability is much lower than people expect 04:10 – The 3 biggest drivers of SIL profitability 06:00 – Rostering & claiming mistakes – The #1 profit killer in SIL 09:20 – Rent, utilities, groceries & activities – How to manage the subsidy gap 12:00 – Why understanding your vacancy rate is critical 15:30 – The $11,000 per week rule – How much funding is needed to sustain a SIL house 18:40 – What financial reports should every SIL provider have? 22:00 – Why profitability isn’t a bad word – How it leads to better outcomes for participants 23:40 – How Resolv helps SIL providers improve financial performance & sustainability   Follow Tania Gomez Consulting on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/taniagomezconsulting/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/taniagomezconsulting/ LinkedIn: https://au.linkedin.com/company/tania-gomez-consulting   Or you can also visit our website: http://www.taniagomez.com.au/   #silosophy, #silprofitability, #taniagomez, #resolv, #consulting, #episode17, #businessconsulting, #profitability, #silosystem, #silomanagement, #businessgrowth, #resolvconsulting, #financialconsulting, #businessstrategy, #businessinsights

In this episode of SILosophy, Tania Gomez sits down with Susan and Lianne from Sunflower Hub to discuss their journey as Supported Independent Living (SIL) providers. They share their passion for participant-centered care, the challenges of balancing business and quality support, and their vision for a community-driven SIL model. From overcoming financial hurdles to creating truly participant-led homes, this conversation is packed with insights for aspiring and current SIL providers.   Episode Highlights: 00:00 – Welcome & Introduction: Meet Susan & Lianne from Sunflower Hub 02:30 – The journey to becoming a SIL provider: Identifying a gap in the market 05:10 – A heart-driven approach: Lived experience & participant-first mindset 08:40 – The challenges of balancing business sustainability with quality care 12:00 – Investing in staff training: Why skilled staff lead to better participant outcomes 16:30 – Overcoming hurdles: Navigating audits, financial struggles, and compliance 20:10 – The future of Sunflower Hub: Expanding SIL services & launching a community hub   Follow Tania Gomez Consulting for More Expert Insights: Website: www.taniagomez.com.au Facebook: @taniagomezconsulting Instagram: @taniagomezconsulting LinkedIn: Tania Gomez Consulting   #silosophy, #sunflowerhub, #taniagomezconsulting, #silprovidersjourney, #episode16, #consultingjourney, #silosophyepisode16, #sunflowerhubstory, #leadershipjourney, #personaljourney, #smallbusinessconsulting, #entrepreneurship, #consultantlife, #businessgrowth, #womenentrepreneurs

In this episode of SILosophy, Tania Gomez is joined by an experienced SIL professional Storm Menzies to explore one of the most common challenges in Supported Independent Living (SIL): What happens when participants don’t get along?   With most SIL homes operating on a one support worker to three participants model, ensuring that housemates are well-matched and able to resolve conflicts effectively is crucial. But even with the best planning, conflict is inevitable in shared living.   This episode unpacks common causes of conflict, best practices for matching participants, conflict resolution techniques, and when it’s time to consider relocating a participant.   Episode Highlights with Timestamps: 00:00 – Welcome & introduction: Why this is such a common challenge in SIL 02:15 – Why participants don’t get along: Common triggers in shared SIL homes 05:00 – The importance of proper onboarding & housemate introductions 07:30 – Should providers match participants based on disability type or needs? 10:15 – The importance of house rules, communication styles & sensory preferences 12:45 – Conflict is normal! How to train staff in conflict resolution 15:10 – The worst mistakes SIL providers make in handling participant conflicts 17:20 – When do you relocate a participant, and how do you manage that process? 19:30 – Key takeaways & final thoughts on managing housemate dynamics   Follow Tania Gomez Consulting on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/taniagomezconsulting/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/taniagomezconsulting/ LinkedIn: https://au.linkedin.com/company/tania-gomez-consulting   Or you can also visit our website: http://www.taniagomez.com.au/   #silosophy, #taniagomezconsulting, #workplaceconflict, #teamdynamics, #conflictresolution, #leadershipskills, #teamworktips, #communicationstrategies, #workplacetips, #episode15, #managementadvice, #professionaldevelopment, #teamconflict, #groupdynamics, #employeeengagement

In this episode of SILosophy, Tania Gomez is joined by Jackson Dyer from DLA Piper to discuss the separation of SIL and SDA—one of the most debated topics in the NDIS space.   For years, the NDIA has advocated for the separation of Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA) and Supported Independent Living (SIL) to maintain participant choice and control. Jackson unpacks the legal complexities of this issue, what the future of SIL-SDA separation might look like, and how providers can best prepare for potential legislative changes.   This episode also explores conflicts of interest, the role of collaboration agreements, and best-practice approaches to structuring SDA and SIL services ethically and legally. If you’re a SIL or SDA provider, this is a must-listen!   Episode Highlights: 00:00 – Welcome & introduction: Meet Jackson Dyer from DLA Piper 02:10 – Why does the NDIA want to separate SIL and SDA? 04:45 – The government’s position: What the NDIS Review recommended 06:50 – Will SIL and SDA separation become law? What to expect 09:30 – The likely legal models for enforcing separation 12:15 – Common ownership loopholes: Can a SIL and SDA provider still have the same directors? 15:40 – Conflicts of interest in SIL & SDA: What are they, and how do you manage them? 18:05 – SIL-SDA collaboration agreements: At what point do they create conflicts? 21:00 – NDIS Practice Standards vs. Legislation: Why isn’t the separation already enforced? 24:10 – How does the NDIA currently regulate conflicts of interest? 27:05 – Best-practice strategies for SIL & SDA providers to prepare for future compliance 29:00 – Final thoughts & how to connect with DLA Piper   Follow Tania Gomez Consulting on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/taniagomezconsulting/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/taniagomezconsulting/ LinkedIn: https://au.linkedin.com/company/tania-gomez-consulting   Or you can also visit our website: http://www.taniagomez.com.au/   #silosophy, #Episode14, #sil , #sda , #dlapiper, #taniagomezconsulting , #separationofsIlandsda, #ndis , #ndisproviders , #disabilitysupport , #legaladvice , #ndiscompliance, #supportcoordination , #ndisfunding, #ndisregistration

In this episode of SILosophy, Tania Gomez is joined by Melissa from Avanti Accountants to break down the complexities of SIL financials. From understanding participant-to-staff ratios to managing overtime costs and tracking cash flow, this episode is packed with practical advice for SIL providers looking to improve financial sustainability.   Melissa shares key insights into the Disability Worker Cost Model, the SCHADS Award, and how to effectively monitor expenses to avoid financial pitfalls. If you’re running a SIL business, this is an essential listen to help you manage your margins and stay profitable in the long run.   Episode Highlights: 00:00 – Welcome & introduction: Meet Melissa from Avanti Accountants 02:10 – Why understanding SIL financials is critical for long-term success 04:15 – The impact of participant-to-staff ratios on SIL funding & expenses 06:30 – How to structure rosters for cost efficiency while meeting participant needs 09:05 – The Disability Worker Cost Model: What it is & why it matters 11:40 – Understanding the SCHADS Award & its impact on your SIL business 13:50 – The financial impact of overtime & public holiday penalty rates 16:20 – Managing last-minute roster changes: Minimizing overtime costs 18:00 – How to track NDIS funding effectively & avoid running out of budget 19:35 – The importance of a cash flow buffer: How much should you keep? 21:00 – Diversifying income streams: Strategies to reduce risk in SIL operations 22:10 – Final thoughts & how to connect with Avanti Accountants   Follow Tania Gomez Consulting on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/taniagomezconsulting/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/taniagomezconsulting/ LinkedIn: https://au.linkedin.com/company/tania-gomez-consulting   Or you can also visit our website: http://www.taniagomez.com.au/   #silosophy, #silfinancials, #avantiaccountants, #taniagomez, #taniagomezconsulting, #ndis, #ndisproviders, #ndisfinance, #ndisfunding, #supportindependentliving, #ndisbusiness, #ndiscompliance, #ndisaccounting, #ndisepisode13, #accountingtips

In this episode of SILosophy, Tania Gomez sits down with Sarah Heriot from the Support Worker Store to discuss the importance of creating a true home for SIL participants—rather than just placing them in a house.   Sarah shares her insights on what makes a home feel safe and welcoming, the role of support workers in fostering independence, and how to ensure participants have real choice and control over their living environment. From interior design decisions to fostering housemate relationships and overcoming challenges, this episode is packed with practical strategies for SIL providers and support workers alike.   Episode Highlights: 00:00 – Welcome & introduction: Meet Sarah Herriott from the Support Worker Store 02:00 – The evolution of the Support Worker Store: From resources to training & content 04:10 – What does it mean to create a home, not just a house? 06:25 – The impact of a safe, comfortable environment on participant wellbeing 08:40 – Designing a supportive home environment: The role of personality & choice 12:10 – The importance of housemate compatibility & group decision-making 15:05 – How support workers contribute to making a house feel like home 17:45 – The balance between support & independence: Role modelling & teachable moments 20:10 – The role of relationships & trust in creating a stable home 21:30 – Final thoughts & how to connect with the Support Worker Store   Follow Tania Gomez Consulting on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/taniagomezconsulting/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/taniagomezconsulting/ LinkedIn: https://au.linkedin.com/company/tania-gomez-consulting   Or you can also visit our website: http://www.taniagomez.com.au/   #silosophy, #taniagomezconsulting, #supportworkerstore, #creatingahome, #ndisprovider, #disabilitysupport, #groupliving, #ndishousing, #caregivingjourney, #homecare, #supportworkers, #supportedliving, #disabilityinclusion, #personcentredcare, #ndissupports

In this episode of SILosophy, Tania Gomez sits down with Anita Gover from TechAbility to explore how SIL providers can optimise their technology systems. From essential tech stacks to automation, AI-driven tools, and cybersecurity best practices, Anita shares expert insights on how providers can streamline operations, protect sensitive data, and leverage emerging technologies to enhance service delivery.   Whether you're a SIL provider struggling with system integrations or looking to future-proof your business with AI and automation, this episode is packed with practical advice on getting your tech right from the start.   Episode Highlights: 00:00 – Welcome & introduction: Meet Anita Gover from TechAbility 02:10 – What is TechAbility? IT consulting for NDIS, aged care & community services 04:20 – The essential tech stack for SIL providers: What systems do you really need? 08:40 – Common tech mistakes: Why too many systems create inefficiencies & extra costs 12:15 – Automations for SIL providers: How to streamline rostering, scheduling & billing 16:30 – The importance of integrations: Connecting your CRM, HR, and finance systems 19:05 – Cybersecurity & data privacy: Why every provider needs to prioritise protection 23:50 – AI-driven tools & predictive analytics: How AI can enhance service delivery 26:00 – The future of SIL tech: Emerging trends, PACE, and digital transformation 27:30 – Final thoughts & how to contact TechAbility   Follow Tania Gomez Consulting on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/taniagomezconsulting/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/taniagomezconsulting/ LinkedIn: https://au.linkedin.com/company/tania-gomez-consulting   Or you can also visit our website: http://www.taniagomez.com.au/   #silosophy, #silsoftware, #techability, #taniagomezconsulting, #episode11, #silsolutions, #specialistinclusivelearning, #inclusiveeducation, #assistivetechnology, #edtech, #softwareforinclusion, #silapps, #disabilitysupport, #learningtechnology, #inclusionmatters

In this episode of SILosophy, Tania Gomez sits down with Chris Lapa from The Growth Academy to discuss the essential strategies for filling SIL vacancies. They explore the intersection of marketing, branding, and sales—breaking down how SIL providers can effectively position their services, attract the right participants, and build trust with both users and choosers.   Chris shares insights into the power of storytelling, the role of digital marketing (Google Ads, Facebook campaigns, SEO, and LinkedIn), and the importance of a structured sales process. Whether you’re a SIL provider struggling with vacancies or looking to optimize your marketing, this episode is packed with actionable strategies to help you grow.   Episode Highlights: 00:00 – Welcome & introduction: Meet Chris Lapa from The Growth Academy 03:15 – Chris’s background in marketing & why he focuses on the NDIS sector 06:10 – Why branding isn’t just about a logo—how to position your SIL 09:25 – The biggest mistake SIL providers make when trying to fill a vacancy 13:00 – The role of trust in SIL marketing & the emotional decision-making process 17:15 – Marketing channels: Facebook Ads, Google Ads, SEO & LinkedIn—what works best? 22:40 – Social media strategies & the limitations of Facebook ad targeting 27:30 – The power of networking: LinkedIn & community connections 31:00 – Crafting the right message: Speaking to both users & choosers 36:20 – The importance of sales: Why follow-ups, touchpoints, and processes matter 40:10 – Final thoughts & how to contact Chris for SIL marketing support   Follow Tania Gomez Consulting on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/taniagomezconsulting/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/taniagomezconsulting/ LinkedIn: https://au.linkedin.com/company/tania-gomez-consulting   Or you can also visit our website: http://www.taniagomez.com.au/   #silosophy #episode10 #advertisingvacancies #growthacademy #taniagomezconsulting #jobadvertising #recruitmenttips #hrstrategy #hiringprocess #teamgrowth #careercoaching #workplaceculture #businessgrowth #leadershipdevelopment #jobvacancy

In this episode of SILosophy, Tania Gomez sits down with Dr. Rodney Jilek from Community Home Australia to discuss their groundbreaking initiative—offering NDIS-funded short-term accommodation (STA) in Bali. Dr. Jilek shares the vision behind this unique respite option, the funding model, the benefits for participants, and how the program aligns with NDIS guidelines. They also delve into future plans, including the expansion into aged care and long-term retirement options in Bali.   If you’ve ever wondered about alternative respite models that prioritize both participant experience and sustainability, this episode is a must-listen!   Episode Highlights: 00:00 – Welcome & Introduction: Meet Dr. Rodney Gillek and the story behind Community Home Australia 02:10 – From aged care to NDIS: Dr. Gillek’s professional journey 04:30 – The origin of Bali STA: A new approach to respite care 08:45 – Overcoming sector pushback: Addressing misconceptions about NDIS funding for overseas respite 12:00 – How Bali STA is funded: NDIS-approved expenses vs. out-of-pocket costs 16:15 – Making respite accessible: The role of charitable funding for participants 19:20 – The Bali STA experience: What participants can expect on arrival 22:45 – Expanding the project: Plans for aged care and retirement living in Bali 27:10 – Sustainability, local community impact, and future plans 29:30 – Final thoughts & next steps for Community Home Australia   Follow Tania Gomez Consulting on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/taniagomezconsulting/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/taniagomezconsulting/ LinkedIn: https://au.linkedin.com/company/tania-gomez-consulting   Or you can also visit our website: http://www.taniagomez.com.au/   #silosophy, #episode9, #paradisewithpurpose, #communityhomeaustralia, #taniagomezconsulting, #australiancommunity, #purposefulliving, #inclusivehousing, #disabilityservices, #ndis, #homewithpurpose, #socialimpact, #communitybuilding, #accessiblehousing, #silhousing

In this episode of SILosophy, Tania Gomez welcomes Cedar Anderson, founder and director of MyAssista, to share her journey and insights into the world of Supported Independent Living (SIL). Cedar discusses the challenges of one-on-one SIL, balancing participant needs with business sustainability, and the importance of being participant-driven. With real-life lessons, financial advice, and a focus on quality care, this episode is packed with practical tips for new and experienced providers alike.   Episode Highlights: 00:00 – Welcome & Introduction: Meet Cedar Anderson and the story behind MyAssista 02:30 – The beginnings of MyAssista: Transitioning from personal need to founding a SIL business 05:00 – Why one-on-one SIL? A unique approach to participant-directed care 08:40 – Overcoming challenges: Staff retention, training, and building trust with participants 12:10 – Financial realities of SIL: Crunching the numbers and ensuring viability 16:15 – Learning from mistakes: The costly lesson of assuming participant preferences 19:50 – Person-directed care: Building strong relationships for better outcomes 22:30 – The future of MyAssista: Diversifying revenue streams and entering aged care 25:50 – Advice for new SIL providers: Financial planning, processes, and teamwork   Follow Tania Gomez Consulting on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/taniagomezconsulting/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/taniagomezconsulting/ LinkedIn: https://au.linkedin.com/company/tania-gomez-consulting   Or you can also visit our website: http://www.taniagomez.com.au/

In this insightful episode of SILosophy, Tania Gomez sits down with Laura Cowell, CEO of Australian Operations for Tender Loving Care, to discuss strategic growth in the SIL (Supported Independent Living) space. From determining when it’s the right time to expand, to balancing participant needs with business sustainability, Laura shares her wealth of experience managing one of Australia’s largest for-purpose NDIS providers. Learn how to design participant-driven SIL homes, tackle common challenges, and maintain a culture of quality while scaling your operations.   Episode Highlights: 00:00 – Welcome & Introduction: Meet Laura Cowell and her inspiring journey 02:10 – The right time to grow: Indicators that it’s time to expand your SIL operations 05:40 – Participant-led growth: The importance of designing homes based on individual needs 08:30 – Flatmate matching: Building harmonious living environments and fostering participant satisfaction 12:45 – Common pitfalls: Avoiding mistakes in growth strategies 16:00 – Balancing quality and quantity: Ensuring consistent care and service standards while expanding 20:15 – Treating each home as a business unit: Financial modelling and sustainability in SIL homes 24:30 – Risk management: How to assess and mitigate risks before expansion   Follow Tania Gomez Consulting on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/taniagomezconsulting/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/taniagomezconsulting/ LinkedIn: https://au.linkedin.com/company/tania-gomez-consulting   Or you can also visit our website: http://www.taniagomez.com.au/

In this episode of SILosophy, host Tania Gomez is joined by Josh Pix, co-founder of Resolv, to unpack the complexities of service agreements in the SIL space. Josh provides actionable insights into avoiding common pitfalls, managing open agreements, handling emergencies, and ensuring financial sustainability while delivering exceptional participant care. This is an essential listen for SIL providers looking to strengthen their service agreements and protect their businesses.   Episode Highlights: 00:00 – Introduction: Meet Josh Pix from Resolv 01:20 – What Resolv does: Supporting SIL providers with rostering, claiming, and financial stability 03:00 – The risks of poor service agreements: Why they matter 04:45 – Understanding open service agreements and how they expose providers to financial risks 08:10 – What is over-servicing? Defining and identifying intentional and unintentional over-servicing 10:50 – The six-step process for managing over-servicing and ensuring shared responsibility 14:30 – Emergency situations: Hospitalisation, incarceration, and how to navigate funding gaps 16:40 – Programmes of support: What they are and why SIL providers need them 19:00 – Building robust service agreements: Essential clauses and considerations for providers 21:00 – Final advice for SIL providers: Addressing risks, promoting shared responsibility, and ensuring participant care   Follow Tania Gomez Consulting on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/taniagomezconsulting/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/taniagomezconsulting/ LinkedIn: https://au.linkedin.com/company/tania-gomez-consulting   Or you can also visit our website: http://www.taniagomez.com.au/

In this episode of SILosophy, host Tania Gomez sits down with Tommy Trout, founder of Disbranded and co-creator of SILosophy, to explore the critical role of branding in the NDIS sector. Tommy explains why branding is not just for big companies and how SIL providers can use storytelling, authenticity, and strategic design to differentiate themselves in a crowded market. Whether you're just starting your SIL journey or looking to refine your approach, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help you stand out.   Episode Highlights with Timestamps 00:00 – Introduction: Meet Tommy Trout, founder of Disbranded and branding expert 01:50 – Why the disability sector needs a branding revolution 05:30 – SIL branding: Why 9 out of 10 SIL providers look identical and how to stand out 09:45 – Defining brand: More than just a logo or colour palette 13:00 – The power of the “why”: Building trust through purpose-driven branding 17:25 – Storytelling as a key branding strategy: Tommy’s personal experiences 21:10 – The challenges of branding for SIL providers: Vulnerability and authenticity 25:45 – Practical tips for crafting a compelling brand identity 30:00 – Branding for inclusivity: Designing with participants’ needs in mind 33:15 – Tommy’s #1 tip for SIL providers to strengthen their brand   Follow Tania Gomez Consulting on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/taniagomezconsulting/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/taniagomezconsulting/ LinkedIn: https://au.linkedin.com/company/tania-gomez-consulting   Or you can also visit our website: http://www.taniagomez.com.au/

In this episode of SILosophy, Tania sits down with Scott Chapman, the visionary founder of Able Digital Wellness. They discuss how creating healthier Supported Independent Living (SIL) homes can lead to better outcomes for participants, support workers, and providers.   Scott shares the journey of founding Able Digital Wellness to improve the lives of his nephew and others in SIL, highlighting the importance of tailored exercise, nutrition, and wellness programs. The conversation dives into the role of transparent accountability, practical strategies for healthier living, and how providers can differentiate themselves by embracing wellness-focused approaches.   Episode Highlights:   00:00 – Introduction: Meet Scott Chapman and the story behind Able Digital Wellness 02:15 – The inspiration to improve SIL homes through health and wellness 07:00 – The challenges of supporting participants in making healthier choices 10:20 – How Able Digital Wellness personalises wellness plans to individual needs 13:30 – Benefits for SIL providers: Reduced staff turnover and improved participant retention 18:45 – Transparent accountability: How detailed reporting builds trust with families 22:10 – Addressing gaps in support worker skills through customised training content   Follow Tania Gomez Consulting on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/taniagomezconsulting/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/taniagomezconsulting/ LinkedIn: https://au.linkedin.com/company/tania-gomez-consulting   Or you can also visit our website: http://www.taniagomez.com.au/