Kelly Forbes is the Founder and Director of Forbes Care Occupational Therapy. With a background in paediatric OT, Kelly is known for her team-first leadership approach and commitment to building a business where clinicians thrive.

From solo practitioner to Director of a 26+ person Allied Health business, Kelly Forbes has led Forbes Care Occupational Therapy with purpose, culture, and calm. Host Cathy Love speaks with Kelly about her transition into business leadership, and the steps she’s taken to grow a sustainable, values-based business.

They discuss the impacts of the 2025 NDIS Pricing changes and how Kelly’s team is responding with financial foresight and clear communication. Hear how Forbes Care’s feedback culture supports staff wellbeing, leadership development, and clinical excellence.

Topics covered on team growth, NDIS reform, leadership mindset, and culture:

• Team growth & structure – Kelly’s journey from sole trader to building a team with flexible roles, clear pathways, and strong foundations.
• Navigating NDIS changes – Strategic responses to the July 2025 pricing changes, especially around travel and service mix.
• Leading & letting go – How Kelly overcame her fear of delegation and developed a shared leadership model.
• Embedding culture & feedback – Creating psychological safety, honest communication, and a culture of ongoing development.

Related Episode

• Episode Number 347: Navigating NDIS Reform and Future-proofing Allied Health Businesses

P.S. Need a little extra support on your business journey? Whether you’re navigating challenges or looking to reach new goals, we’re here to support your growth.

Book a Complimentary Power Call with us, and let’s talk about how we can help you achieve your vision for your Allied Health business.

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In this episode, Cathy Love is joined by Layland Webb, Business Manager at Nacre Consulting, to unpack the mindset and mechanics of business decision-making for Allied Health Directors. It’s a practical, number-loving conversation that explores how data and planning can lift the fog and help owners lead with clarity.

From budgeting to strategic decision frameworks, Cathy and Layland talk through what it takes to make sound business choices when pressure is high and resources are tight. Expect grounded advice and a few relatable laughs as they reflect on common mistakes and what Allied Health Business Owners can do to future-proof their operations.

Topics covered on decision-making, financial planning, and leadership mindset:

• Decision-making models: Why Allied Health Business Owners benefit from clear structure in making big calls.
• Financial literacy and forecasting: Understanding the numbers that actually matter.
• Mindset of strong directors: Staying focused when the going gets tough (and messy).
• Common financial pitfalls: What to watch out for and how to course correct.
• Practical habits for clarity: Tools and techniques to move from chaos to confidence.

Related Episodes

• 🎙 Episode 355: The Financial Team You Deserve – Habits, Know-How & EOFY Wins

P.S. Need a little extra support on your business journey? Whether you’re navigating challenges or looking to reach new goals, we’re here to support your growth.

Book a Complimentary Power Call with us, and let’s talk about how we can help you achieve your vision for your Allied Health business.

Midroll Message: Don’t miss out on our FREE Masterclass!

Connect with Nacre Consulting:

• Let’s connect on Instagram
• Follow us on Facebook
• Let’s connect on LinkedIn
• Join our Facebook Group online community

More about The Allied Health Business Brilliance Podcast:

The Allied Health Business Brilliance podcast (previously known as Private Practice Made Perfect) powered by Nacre Consulting features authentic conversations that offer real-life stories and expert perspectives for Australian...

In this rerun episode, Cathy Love chats with Cullen Brugman, Managing Director of Dashboard Magic, about how data is the secret weapon in smart Allied Health business management.

Cullen unpacks what good data actually looks like, why Allied Health professionals shouldn’t fear it, and how dashboards can radically improve decision-making. They explore the real-world benefits of having business data clearly visualised and how that can drive better conversations, stronger leadership, and ultimately, sustainable growth.

Topics covered on dashboards, data clarity, and decision-making:

• The data dashboard difference: Why Allied Health businesses need simplified and powerful views of their key numbers.
• From overwhelm to clarity: How to choose the right metrics and ditch the noise.
• Getting team buy-in: Why involving your team in data conversations builds ownership and performance.
• The magic in visuals: How well-designed dashboards can shift how you lead, plan, and grow your business.

Download Cullen’s free Business Metrics Google Sheet to get started.

P.S. Need a little extra support on your business journey? Whether you’re navigating challenges or looking to reach new goals, we’re here to support your growth.

Book a Complimentary Power Call with us, and let’s talk about how we can help you achieve your vision for your Allied Health business.

Midroll Message: Come join us at our FREE Masterclass!

Connect with Nacre Consulting:

• Let’s connect on Instagram
• Follow us on Facebook
• Let’s connect on LinkedIn
• Join our Facebook Group online community

More about The Allied Health Business Brilliance Podcast:

The Allied Health Business Brilliance podcast (previously known as Private Practice Made Perfect) powered by Nacre Consulting features authentic conversations that offer real-life stories and expert perspectives for Australian Allied Health Business Owners. Cathy Love, our engaging host, gathers wisdom from Allied Health...

When a team member underdelivers, it impacts more than just KPIs — it affects morale, culture, and your time as a business leader.

In this rerun episode, Cathy Love sits down with Nacre Consulting’s Business Manager – Layland Webb to talk about the real-life challenges of leading through underperformance in Allied Health. They share stories and strategies from the field, including how to hold tough conversations, the role of regular coaching, and how to prevent underperformance from spreading.

Whether you’re facing silent disengagement, repeated mistakes, or a team vibe that feels “off” — this episode provides clear, values-based approaches to help you lead with clarity and courage.

Key topics covered in this episode:

• How to effectively approach coaching underperforming employees.
• The impact of underperformance on team culture and morale.
• Identifying and addressing the root causes of employee performance issues.
• Crafting strong leadership strategies to guide your team.
• The importance of documentation and communication in managing performance.

P.S. Need a little extra support on your business journey? Whether you’re navigating challenges or looking to reach new goals, we’re here to support your growth.

Book a Complimentary Power Call with us, and let’s talk about how we can help you achieve your vision for your Allied Health business.

Midroll Message: Come join us at our FREE Masterclass!

Connect with Nacre Consulting:

• Let’s connect on Instagram
• Follow us on Facebook
• Let’s connect on LinkedIn
• Join our Facebook Group online community

More about The Allied Health Business Brilliance Podcast:

The Allied Health Business Brilliance podcast (previously known as Private Practice Made Perfect) powered by Nacre Consulting features authentic conversations that offer real-life stories and expert perspectives for Australian Allied Health Business Owners. Cathy Love, our engaging host, gathers wisdom from Allied Health professionals and industry supporters alike.

We dive into the real experiences of running and growing Allied Health businesses in Australia, revealing both the rewards and the inevitable challenges along the way. It’s raw, sometimes vulnerable, but always valuable. Join us and stay tuned to keep...

In this episode, Cathy Love sits down with Nicola Photiou, Marketing Manager at Nacre Consulting, for an energetic and behind-the-scenes conversation about women leading the charge in Allied Health business marketing.

Nicola shares her career journey from local government comms to shaping national-level marketing strategy at Nacre. They explore how Allied Health Businesses can leverage storytelling, branding, and authentic messaging to drive real-world impact. The conversation also touches on imposter syndrome, visibility for women in business, and the importance of keeping values and connection at the core of all marketing efforts.

Key topics covered:

• Marketing strategy in Allied Health: How to use storytelling, branding and visibility to build strong client relationships and drive referrals.
• Women in leadership: Building confidence, navigating imposter syndrome and owning your voice in business conversations.
• Authenticity in branding: Creating marketing that reflects your business values, not just sales targets.
• The evolution of Nacre’s marketing: A candid look into what’s working, what’s changing, and what’s next.

P.S. Need a little extra support on your business journey? Whether you’re navigating challenges or looking to reach new goals, we’re here to support your growth.

Book a Complimentary Power Call with us, and let’s talk about how we can help you achieve your vision for your Allied Health business.

Midroll Message: Secure your spot in the upcoming FREE Masterclass!

Connect with Nacre Consulting:

• Let’s connect on Instagram
• Follow us on Facebook
• Let’s connect on LinkedIn
• Join our Facebook Group online community

More about The Allied Health Business Brilliance Podcast:

The Allied Health Business Brilliance podcast (previously known as Private Practice Made Perfect) powered by Nacre Consulting features authentic conversations that offer real-life stories and expert perspectives for Australian Allied Health Business Owners. Cathy Love, our engaging host, gathers wisdom from Allied Health professionals and industry supporters alike.

We dive into the real experiences of running and growing Allied Health businesses in Australia, revealing both the rewards and the inevitable challenges along the way. It’s raw, sometimes vulnerable, but always valuable. Join us and stay tuned to keep up with every inspiring story and...

In this episode, Cathy Love is joined by Nacre’s Business Manager, Layland Webb, for a grounded and practical conversation on how Allied Health Business Owners can plan beyond the panic. With rising costs, shifting markets, and mounting pressure on Directors, it’s time to reframe business planning as a strategic opportunity—rather than just survival mode.

Cathy and Layland unpack how to review your business model, think creatively about revenue streams, and build agile plans that reflect the real world. They share how to avoid reactionary decisions, and instead shape strategies around sustainable, scalable service delivery.

If you’re feeling stuck or simply want to broaden your business thinking, this episode will help you reset, reframe, and replan with confidence.

Key topics covered:

• Business Planning That Reflects Reality: Moving beyond idealism and designing plans that withstand uncertainty
• Revenue Diversification: Rethinking service delivery models, funding sources, and pricing
• Contingency Planning: Building in buffers, flexibility, and options when the unexpected hits
• Stepping Into Director Thinking: Staying calm, curious, and clear-eyed in your decision-making

P.S. Need a little extra support on your business journey? Whether you’re navigating challenges or looking to reach new goals, we’re here to support your growth.

Book a Complimentary Power Call with us, and let’s talk about how we can help you achieve your vision for your Allied Health business.

Connect with Nacre Consulting:

• Let’s connect on Instagram
• Follow us on Facebook
• Let’s connect on LinkedIn
• Join our Facebook Group online community

More about The Allied Health Business Brilliance Podcast:

The Allied Health Business Brilliance podcast (previously known as Private Practice Made Perfect) powered by Nacre Consulting features authentic conversations that offer real-life stories and expert perspectives for Australian Allied Health Business Owners. Cathy Love, our engaging host, gathers wisdom from Allied Health professionals and industry supporters alike.

We dive into the real experiences of running and growing Allied Health businesses in Australia, revealing both the rewards and the inevitable challenges along the way. It’s raw, sometimes vulnerable, but always valuable. Join us and stay tuned to keep up with every inspiring story and lesson shared.

As EOFY approaches, it’s time to get serious about your numbers and your financial support team. In this episode, Cathy Love and Layland Webb dive into a favourite topic—loveable numbers, while they share why EOFY isn’t just about paperwork and tax returns, but an opportunity to check in on your business brilliance.

Cathy and Layland breaks down what makes a financial team truly effective in the Allied Health sector, from accountants and bookkeepers to BAS agents and beyond. From habits to reporting rhythms to knowing who belongs on your dream team, this episode lays down the blueprint for mastering financial leadership in Allied Health. They walk you through essential habits to adopt, how to build relationships with financial pros who get your business, and the EOFY rituals that set up success for the new financial year.

Topics covered on financial teams, EOFY rituals, and healthy business habits:

• EOFY as a business checkpoint: Treat the end of financial year as a leadership opportunity, not just compliance.
• Building your financial dream team: What roles you really need around the table—and what red flags to look for.
• Habits for financial clarity: The reporting cycles, meeting cadences, and rituals that keep your financial game strong.
• Knowing your role: Understanding your financial responsibilities as a director is non-negotiable for business growth.
• Empowering your team with numbers: Why financial literacy is everyone’s business—and how to build it into your culture.

P.S. Need a little extra support on your business journey? Whether you’re navigating challenges or looking to reach new goals, we’re here to support your growth.

Book a Complimentary Power Call with us, and let’s talk about how we can help you achieve your vision for your Allied Health business.

Midroll Message: Secure your spot in the Online Conference!

Connect with Nacre Consulting:

• Let’s connect on Instagram
• Follow us on Facebook
• Let’s connect on LinkedIn
• Join our Facebook Group online community

More about The Allied Health Business Brilliance Podcast:

The Allied Health Business Brilliance podcast (previously known as Private Practice Made Perfect) powered by Nacre Consulting features authentic conversations that offer real-life stories and expert perspectives for Australian Allied Health Business Owners. Cathy Love, our engaging...

Fresh from attending the 2025 DSC Annual NDIS Conference in Melbourne, Cathy shares her personal highlights, key takeaways, and thoughtful reflections. From foundational supports and registration reform to employment gaps and AI, this wrap-up covers the big conversations and subtle shifts shaping the future of the NDIS. Whether you joined the event or are catching up now, Cathy unpacks the moments that mattered and what they might mean for your Allied Health business.

Key topics covered include:

• The most discussed issues in the room — from workforce capacity to foundational support gaps
• The call to action around under-utilised employment supports
• Highlights from the quality and safeguarding discussion with Commissioner Louise Glanville
• Emerging voices and the growing focus on co-design and implementation frameworks
• Sector stress, smart planning, and why scenario mapping matters more than ever
• Why the sector — despite the pressure — is expected to rise to the moment

P.S. Need a little extra support on your business journey? Whether you’re navigating challenges or looking to reach new goals, we’re here to support your growth.

Book a Complimentary Power Call with us, and let’s talk about how we can help you achieve your vision for your Allied Health business.

Midroll Message: Secure your spot in the Online Conference!

Connect with Nacre Consulting:

• Let’s connect on Instagram
• Follow us on Facebook
• Let’s connect on LinkedIn
• Join our Facebook Group online community

More about The Allied Health Business Brilliance Podcast:

The Allied Health Business Brilliance podcast (previously known as Private Practice Made Perfect) powered by Nacre Consulting features authentic conversations that offer real-life stories and expert perspectives for Australian Allied Health Business Owners. Cathy Love, our engaging host, gathers wisdom from Allied Health professionals and industry supporters alike.

We dive into the real experiences of running and growing Allied Health businesses in Australia, revealing both the rewards and the inevitable challenges along the way. It’s raw, sometimes vulnerable, but always valuable. Join us and stay tuned to keep up with every inspiring story and lesson shared.