Nicki Allen:  From Physio to Founder | Human-Centred Innovation in Healthcare

Send us Fan MailPhysiotherapist turned founder on health tech, autism support, wearable technology, leadership, and purpose-driven innovationWhat happens when you stop accepting the system… and start building something better?In this episode of Unlocking Human Potential, Andy sits down with Nicki Allen, physiotherapist, innovator, and founder of Haptiv8, a health-tech company redefining how we support children with movement challenges.After years working in healthcare, Nicki saw first-hand the gaps particularly for children with autism and additional needs where traditional systems weren’t delivering what patients and families truly needed. Instead of accepting it, she chose to act. Through Haptiv8, she is developing wearable, sensory-driven technology designed to improve movement, enhance rehabilitation, and provide real-time insights for clinicians and families alike. But this conversation goes far beyond healthcare innovation.We explore:the courage it takes to step outside traditional career pathshow curiosity can become the foundation of innovationthe emotional side of leadership and decision-makingwhat it means to build something with real human impactand how to trust your instincts when something doesn’t feel rightThis is a conversation about purpose, leadership, healthcare, innovation, and the human side of building something that matters.About Nicki Nicki Allen physiotherapist, innovator, and founder of Haptiv8, a health-tech company redefining how we support children with movement challenges.Nicki’s work sits at the intersection of clinical practice, technology, and human-centred care.  After years working in healthcare, she saw first-hand the gaps in how we support children with conditions like autism particularly those struggling with mobility and development and decided to do something about it. Through Haptiv8, she’s developing wearable, sensory-driven technology designed to improve movement, enhance rehabilitation, and give both clinicians and families better insight through real-time data. But behind the innovation is a much deeper story one of curiosity, courage, and stepping outside traditional pathways to build something that could genuinely change lives. This is a conversation about more than healthcare or technology.It’s about seeing a problem, trusting your instincts, and having the courage to create something better.”@haptiv8 Nicki Allen Support the show