Is chat support helping your business or quietly burning you out?

In this episode of the Functionally Speaking podcast, we’re unpacking the pros and cons of offering chat support to clients—from how we’ve structured it in our own practices to the unexpected mindset shifts it required. We talk about what works (and what definitely didn’t), how to set boundaries and still offer high-touch care, and why chat support can be a powerful tool for client progress—if it’s used intentionally. 

Whether you're deciding whether to include it, struggling with how to manage it, or feeling like it's becoming too much, this conversation will give you grounded, practical guidance.

In this episode, we cover:

• 01:41 Why community and real-time connection matter in client care
• 02:12 The chat support debate: should you offer it or not?
• 02:57 Our personal experiences—what worked, what flopped, what we changed
• 04:15 Boundaries, compensation, and not working for free
• 05:39 How we use chat support effectively in our weekly rhythms
• 06:23 Pros and cons: real talk from both sides of the inbox
• 06:54 Different models and approaches—what works for you
• 08:52 Why chat access can be a huge value-add (even if clients don’t use it)
• 12:02 Setting expectations and encouraging meaningful engagement
• 24:51 Wrapping up with reminders, upcoming events, and the power of overdelivering

Links and resources:

• Listen to Episode 23. How to Design Protocols That Actually Work (Without Overwhelming Your Clients): https://www.buzzsprout.com/2506559/episodes/18491501
• Listen to Episode 21. Masterclasses, Memberships, or 1:1? Choosing the Right Business Model for You: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2506559/episodes/18417374

Connect with Unconventional Collaborative:

Join Us: https://unconventional-collaborative.mn.co/

Website: unconventionalcollaborative.com

Instagram: instagram.com/unconventional.collaborative

Connect with Laura Ligos:

Website: https://thesassydietitian.com

Instagram: instagram.com/thesassydietitian

Connect with Danielle Kepics:

Website: https://www.empoweredmindbody.co

Instagram: instagram.com/danielle.kepics

The information in this podcast is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your physician or qualified provider with questions about your health and never delay seeking care because of something you heard here.

Nothing shared by Unconventional Collaborative is intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent disease, and supplement statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This podcast does not create a doctor–patient, provider–client, or supervisory relationship.

All practitioners are responsible for interpreting and applying information within the legal and ethical scope of their own training and credentials. If unsure what falls within your scope of practice, consult your licensing or certifying body.

Unconventional Collaborative and its contributors assume no responsibility for outcomes resulting from use or misuse of this information.