Drive-ABLE Podcast

After three incredible years behind the mic, this is the final episode of the DriveAble Podcast. In this heartfelt send-off, Ali, Brad, and Jenny come together to reflect on their favourite moments, most inspiring guests, and the powerful stories that have been shared along the way.

From adaptive driving breakthroughs to Paralympic journeys, the team revisits the conversations that left a mark—and the lessons they’ll carry forward. It’s a celebration of community, resilience, and the amazing people who’ve made this podcast what it is.

Thank you for tuning in, supporting, and growing with us. While this may be the end of the DriveAble Podcast, the drive for inclusion, independence, and innovation continues.

🎧 Tune in one last time.

#DriveAblePodcast #FinalEpisode #FarewellEpisode #AdaptiveDriving #DrivingIndependence #OTCommunity #DisabilitySupport #EndOfTheRoad #Gratitude #InclusiveMobility

In this episode of the DriveAble Podcast, Brad speaks with Paralympic gold medalist and transition coach at the South Australian Institute of Sport - Jed Altschwager. After a life-changing accident in 2015 that resulted in the loss of a foot, Jed found his path to rowing in 2017, leading to incredible success, including gold at the Paris Paralympics and multiple medals at the World Rowing Championships.

They delve into Jed's story, starting from his life before the accident and exploring the challenges he faced in those early days of recovery. They talk about his mindset, the support he received, and how his rehabilitation led him to think about returning to driving. Jed opens up about the process of getting back behind the wheel, including working with an OT and modifying his car with the necessary controls and equipment to accommodate his needs. He also shares his experiences with the NDIS and the driving assessment process, offering valuable insights and tips for others in similar situations.

Additionally, he shares insights from his role helping emerging athletes prepare for the 2032 Brisbane Paralympics.

If you're interested in adaptive driving, sports, or overcoming obstacles, this episode is full of inspiration and valuable tips.

🎧 Tune in now!

#DriveAblePodcast #ParalympicJourney #AdaptiveDriving #Rowing #DisabilitySports #NDIS #SASI #MindsetMatters #OvercomingChallenges #DrivingWithDisabilities #Inspiration

In this episode of the DriveAble Podcast, we sit down with Anne Klose, who lives with Facioscapulohumeral Muscular Dystrophy (FSHD), to talk about her journey to driving independence. Anne shares her experiences with hand controls and vehicle modifications, detailing the process of getting the right setup, the struggles she faced along the way, and how she ultimately gained the freedom to drive.

She opens up about the challenges of navigating assessments, approvals, and modifications, as well as the importance of finding the right support and resources. Whether you're someone exploring adaptive driving solutions, an OT working with drivers, or simply interested in real stories of resilience and independence, this is an episode you won’t want to miss!

🎧 Tune in now!

#DriveAblePodcast #AdaptiveDriving #HandControls #VehicleModifications #FSHD #DrivingWithDisabilities #MobilityMatters #Independence #OTLife #DisabilitySupport

In Part B of this special DriveAble Podcast episode, Jenny and Brad shift gears to focus on motorcycle driver assessments. While both have extensive experience in light vehicle assessments, they also completed motorcycle assessment training together in 2013 and have been developing their skills in this area ever since.

They discuss the unique skills required to operate a motorcycle safely and how the assessment process differs from standard car evaluations. Jenny and Brad break down what OTs need to consider when working with motorcyclists, from training requirements to the challenges riders may face in adapting to different controls. They share their experiences in the field, offering valuable insights for those interested in this area of assessment.

Brad and Jenny also explain how the NDIS interacts with both truck and motorcycle assessments, shedding light on how drivers with disabilities can access support for licensing and vehicle modifications. Whether you’re an OT considering expanding into motorcycle assessments or a rider looking for guidance, this episode is filled with practical advice and knowledge.

🎧 Tune in now!

#DriveAblePodcast #MotorcycleAssessment #MotorcycleLicensing #DrivingWithDisabilities #AdaptiveDriving #OccupationalTherapy #NDIS #RoadSafety

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Disclaimer: No copyright infringement is intended with the music and media used in this podcast/video. All rights to the music and other media remain with the respective artists and copyright holders.

Special thanks to our sponsors—Mobility Engineering, Driving Well, and Williams OT—for their invaluable support in bringing this show to life. We appreciate their dedication to our community and industry.

This is a two-part special where Jenny and Brad take a deep dive into heavy vehicle and truck vehicle driver assessments. Having completed their heavy vehicle assessment training in 2013 and 2018, they’ve continued to expand their knowledge and refine their approach to assessing drivers for larger vehicles.

They discuss the key factors involved in assessing heavy vehicle and truck drivers, including licensing requirements and how these assessments differ from standard car evaluations. They also explore the unique challenges of operating heavy vehicles, the modifications that may be required, and how these factors impact the assessment process. Jenny and Brad share insights into the training that OTs need to conduct these evaluations and explain how the NDIS plays a role in supporting drivers who require adaptations or additional considerations.

If you’re an OT looking to expand into heavy vehicle assessments or a driver wanting to understand the process, this episode is packed with valuable insights!

🎧 Tune in now!

#DriveAblePodcast #TruckAssessment #HeavyVehicleAssessment #OccupationalTherapy #NDIS #DrivingWithDisabilities #AdaptiveDriving #RoadSafety

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Disclaimer: No copyright infringement is intended with the music and media used in this podcast/video. All rights to the music and other media remain with the respective artists and copyright holders.

Special thanks to our sponsors—Mobility Engineering, Driving Well, and Williams OT—for their invaluable support in bringing this show to life. We appreciate their dedication to our community and industry.

In this episode, we explore an intriguing topic: Can you obtain a conditional licence for two different types of disability vehicle modifications?

We’re joined by the inspiring Noella Angel—a para-athlete, AVM fighter, para-equestrian, ice hockey player, and whip-cracking specialist. With such a fascinating background, there’s so much to unpack, but today we focus on her journey to obtaining a licence with dual controls.

Noella shares her experience of learning to drive with a left-foot accelerator, the challenges she faced, and how she ultimately secured a licence with two differing sets of controls. She also offers practical advice for others who may be considering this pathway and discusses why this option could be a game-changer for people with disabilities.

This conversation is packed with insights and tips that will resonate with anyone navigating driving adaptations or exploring greater independence. Don’t miss it!

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Disclaimer: No copyright infringement is intended with the music and media used in this podcast/video. All rights to the music and other media remain with the respective artists and copyright holders.

Special thanks to our sponsors—Mobility Engineering, Driving Well, and Williams OT—for their invaluable support in bringing this show to life. We appreciate their dedication to our community and industry.

#DriveAblePodcast #DrivingInstructor #DriverOT #DisabilitySupport #LearnerDrivers #OccupationalTherapy #DrivingWithDisabilities #AustralianDriversLicence #VehicleModification #SouthAustraliaDriving #ParaAthlete #NoellaAngel

In this episode of the DriveAble Podcast, we’re joined by Liz Beggs, a specialized driving instructor from My Driving School in the Moreton Bay region of northern Brisbane. With over five years of experience in the disability space, Liz brings a wealth of knowledge and practical insights to the table.

We explore Liz’s journey into working with clients with disabilities, the specialized training she undertook, and the unique approaches she applies to support her clients. Liz shares the challenges she’s encountered, how collaboration with occupational therapists has enhanced her practice, and what sets her apart as a driving instructor.

To wrap up, Liz offers invaluable tips for parents and guardians of learner drivers, as well as advice for new or aspiring driver OTs looking to make an impact in this rewarding field.

Tune in for an engaging and informative discussion packed with practical takeaways!

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Disclaimer: No copyright infringement is intended with the music and media used in this podcast/video. All rights to the music and other media remain with the respective artists and copyright holders.

Special thanks to our sponsors—Mobility Engineering, Driving Well, and Williams OT—for their invaluable support in bringing this show to life. We appreciate their dedication to our community and industry.

#DriveAblePodcast #DrivingInstructor #DriverOT #DisabilitySupport #LearnerDrivers #OccupationalTherapy #DrivingWithDisabilities #ParentTips #DrivingEducation #MyDrivingSchool #BrisbaneDriving #SpecializedTraining

In today’s episode, we sit down with Sarah Collison from Verve OT in Sydney, a true trailblazer in the NDIS space for occupational therapists. Sarah has been instrumental in helping OTs navigate the complexities of NDIS changes while staying ahead in this evolving landscape. In recognition of her outstanding contributions, Sarah was awarded OT of the Year in 2023 by the Allied Health Awards.

We explore what’s happening with the NDIS and discuss the latest changes impacting both occupational therapists and participants. Sarah also shares insights into the incredible work of Verve OT Learning, offering valuable tips on staying informed and accessing professional development opportunities.

Sarah gives us a glimpse into her popular NDIS Communities of Practice Facebook group and explains how her Inner Circle membership supports OTs as they navigate the complexities of the NDIS.

Whether you’re an OT in the NDIS world or simply curious about this vital sector, this is a conversation you won’t want to miss!

Helpful Links:

📧 Email: [email protected]

💼 LinkedIn: https://au.linkedin.com/in/sarah-collison-verve-ot

🎙️ Listen to the OT Unplugged podcast: https://www.verveotlearning.com.au/podcasts/ot-unplugged-community-of-practice-insights

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Disclaimer: No copyright infringement is intended with the music and media used in this podcast/video. All rights to the music and other media remain with the respective artists and copyright holders.

Special thanks to our sponsors—Mobility Engineering, Driving Well, and Williams OT—for their invaluable support in bringing this show to life. We appreciate their dedication to our community and industry.

Today, we’re diving into an important question with Robert Van Mullekom, the Managing Director of Freedom Motors: Are Japanese import vehicles that have been adapted for wheelchair users safe and a viable option for Australians? In a previous interview for Episode 92, Robert shared insights about Freedom Motors’ work in expanding freedom and accessibility for individuals with disabilities through their vehicle modifications.

In this episode, we welcome him back to explore Japanese import vehicles that arrive pre-converted for wheelchair access. We’ll look closely at the safety standards, benefits, and unique features these vehicles offer, helping you make an informed decision.

Throughout our podcast, we’ve frequently referenced these vehicles in discussions about wheelchair-accessible cars and vans, making this a valuable episode for anyone considering their options. Whether you're a potential buyer, caregiver, or enthusiast, tune in for in-depth insights into the world of wheelchair-accessible Japanese imports.

Helpful Links:

Freedom Motors Australia https://www.freedommotorsaustralia.com.au/

Wheelchair Crash Test Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_2ew9110dvU

Jenny’s Blog: https://www.drivingwell.com.au/why-jap-import-disability-cars-a-bad-idea/

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Disclaimer: No copyright infringement is intended with the music and media used in this podcast/video. All rights to the music and other media remain with the respective artists and copyright holders.

Special thanks to our sponsors—Mobility Engineering, Driving Well, and Williams OT—for their invaluable support in bringing this show to life. We appreciate their dedication to our community and industry.

Today, we're exploring custom driving and vehicle modification solutions with Andy Whale, the founding Director and owner of Alternate Mobility in Brisbane. With over 40 years of experience in the Australian automotive industry, Andy and his team are dedicated to enhancing mobility for individuals with disabilities.

Their extensive range of products and services includes: vehicle conversions for wheelchairs and scooters, wheelchair lifts, hoists and cranes, restraint and seatbelt systems, winches, seating for mobility vehicles, ramps and steps, automated doors, tailgates for mobility vehicles, custom handrails, flooring, and hand controls tailored for drivers with disabilities.

Alternate Mobility is well-respected in the Brisbane driving and vehicle modification occupational therapy community, and we collaborate with them frequently. So, it's fantastic to have them on the show!

We’re eager to chat with Andy and delve into the details of how they customise solutions to meet their clients’ needs.

Contact Information:

Email: [email protected]

Website: www.alternatemobility.com.au

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Disclaimer: No copyright infringement is intended with the music and media used in this podcast/video. All rights to the music and other media remain with the respective artists and copyright holders.

Special thanks to our sponsors—Mobility Engineering, Driving Well, and Williams OT—for their invaluable support in bringing this show to life. We appreciate their dedication to our community and industry.