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Can different abilities unlock limitless potential in business?
And what if the very experiences that can make traditional employment difficult could become a powerful advantage in entrepreneurship?
In this episode of the Small Actions, Big Ripples podcast, I’m joined by Helen Pugh, founder, and Kelly Ward, director of Ablepreneurs® a purpose-driven network supporting disabled, chronically ill and neurodivergent entrepreneurs on their road to business success.
This conversation explores how we can challenge traditional ideas about work, entrepreneurship and success, and rethink what people with disabilities, chronic illness and neurodivergence can bring to business and the workplace.
Helen and Kelly share their personal journeys to Ablepreneurs® and discuss:
- What “Different abilities. Limitless potential.” means in practice.
- The barriers faced by disabled, chronically ill and neurodivergent entrepreneurs in the workplace.
- How lived experience can become the impetus to start a business.
- Why resilience, creativity and different ways of thinking can become powerful assets in business.
- Why employers need to rethink how they understand productivity, consistency and workplace inclusion.
- How to build a business around your body, brain and energy rather than trying to fit into the traditional 9-to-5 model.
We also discuss the launch of the UK’s first National Ablepreneurs Day, taking place on 16 September 2026 at the Wroxeter Hotel in Shropshire, UK.
Helen explains how the idea for National Ablepreneurs Day came about and how she is using her lived experience to lead a movement designed to celebrate and champion disabled, chronically ill and neurodivergent entrepreneurs. Helen and Kelly hope the Ablepreneurs® movement will help change the narrative around disability, employment opportunities, entrepreneurship and inclusion in the workplace, while encouraging employers to recognise the talent and potential that employees with rich and complex lived experiences can bring.
👉 Find out more about National Ablepreneurs Day: https://ablepreneurs.co.uk
If you’re interested in disabled entrepreneurship, neurodivergent entrepreneurship, chronic illness and work, inclusive employment, workplace accessibility, or building a business around your own abilities, this episode offers a powerful perspective on what the future of work and entrepreneurship could look like.
🎥 Recorded at the Opus Media Productions podcast studio in Shropshire, UK.
If you enjoyed this episode, please Like 👍 | Comment 💬 | Subscribe 🔔 to help us share more stories of people making a difference.
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About the Small Actions, Big Ripples Podcast'
Small Actions, Big Ripples' shines a light on the people, charities, social enterprises and purpose-driven organisations creating meaningful impact through everyday actions. Each episode explores the stories, ideas and experiences behind positive social change, proving that small actions really can create big ripples.
