In this episode of the Profitable NDIS Provider Podcast, hosts Paul Bryan and Tania Gomez sit down with Aaron Cotton, co-founder of Marco Polo, to explore how giving participants true choice is transforming Supported Independent Living (SIL) across Australia.

Aaron shares how his experience as a pharmacist, neurodivergent founder, and SIL provider shaped Marco Polo’s approach: matching participants with compatible housemates before housing is arranged. This unique model is helping providers reduce participant churn, boost trust, and improve long-term sustainability.

From business viability to participant wellbeing, this episode is full of practical insight for providers navigating the complexities of SIL and seeking to deliver high-quality, participant-centred care.

Episode Highlights:

00:00 – Welcome & Introduction: Meet Aaron Cotton of Marco Polo

02:05 – What SIL providers are getting wrong (and why it’s costing them)

04:15 – The true costs SIL providers absorb beyond the price guide

07:10 – Introducing Marco Polo: The platform putting participants first

10:00 – A powerful story of a surprising housemate match

12:20 – Why letting participants choose housemates improves outcomes

14:30 – The business case for lower churn and higher retention

17:00 – How Marco Polo increases provider trust and credibility

19:50 – How to join the platform and what to expect

Listen via:

Podbean: ⁠https://profitablendisprovider.podbean.com/⁠

Apple Podcast: ⁠https://apple.co/3UQI0cA⁠

Spotify: ⁠https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/the-profitable-ndis⁠

YouTube: @ProfitableNDIS_ProviderPodcast

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