Our interview with Missy Kay, founder of Inspired Consulting. Missy’s journey is one of resilience, reinvention, and profound self-discovery. She built a thriving DJ agency, only to watch it dissolve due to unforeseen circumstances. This sudden shift forced Missy into deep uncertainty, leading her to ask: What’s next?
Starting Out
Tell me about the day when you thought, “Okay, I’m really doing this”
I was working part-time as an appointment setter for a business coach when it all clicked. My partner turned to me one day and said, “You know, you could be doing this for yourself, right?” and it stopped me in my tracks. Around the same time, several of the leads I had booked started telling me they thought I was the coach they would be working with.
That moment made me realise I had been pouring my energy into building someone else’s dream when I had everything it took to build my own. So I made the decision to quit and pivot.
It’s been a challenging year. One filled with growth, self-discovery and redefining what success looks like at this stage of my life. It’s s also been deeply rewarding and soul healing. It’s taught me that clarity comes through action, not perfection.
What room did you first work from?
Haha!! My dining room table!
We live in a granny flat I built several years ago in my parents’ backyard. Back then, I honestly thought I would be the spinster daughter caring for my parents. Life had other plans.
These days, my ‘office’ has evolved into the upstairs landing of my parents’ main house, plus a rotating schedule between startup hubs and shared workspaces (the ones with the best coffee, of course!).
I am hoping to create a more secure setup next year, but let’s be honest – childcare fees are real, yo!
What problem or challenges were you solving?
Initially, I wanted to inspire self-wellness to create greater self-connection. So many women I met were running on autopilot while also achieving, serving, and surviving. However, feeling completely disconnected from their inner clarity and purpose. I realised the real challenge wasn’t a lack of ambition. It was the absence of alignment between who they were and how they were showing up in business and life.
Inspired Consulting was born to bridge that gap to help people slow down, reconnect, and take intentional, empowered action that feels good and sustainable. It is about transforming overwhelm into flow and self-doubt into confidence.
And how does your product/service solve it?
I officially relaunched Inspired Consulting in May this year. And if I’m being honest, it’s been an active year of market research and realignment. Refining what Inspired Consulting truly stands for and how it best serves people.
In many ways, this phase has been about redefining what entrepreneurship looks like for me as a mother. Balancing purpose, creativity, and structure while building a business that feels aligned, not overwhelming.
Through coaching, strategy sessions, and the Flow Into Freedom program. I’ve been creating frameworks that help women gain clarity, confidence and direction. Helping turn their ideas into actionable steps while staying connected to their values and wellbeing.
It’s still evolving, but the essence remains the same. Helping others build businesses and lives that feel good, flow naturally, and align with who they are. Not who they think they ‘should’ be.
What is your core purpose/belief of your brand?
The core purpose of Inspired Consulting is to help people reconnect with themselves to find clarity, confidence, and direction in both life and business.
I deeply believe that success starts from within. When we are aligned with who we truly are, our decisions, relationships, and opportunities naturally begin to flow.
Through strategy, intuition, and authentic human connection, Inspired Consulting exists to inspire transformation. Helping people and businesses move from confusion to clarity, from self-doubt to empowerment, and from survival to sustainable success.
At its core, it’s about bridging humanity and strategy helping create inspired lives and businesses that feel good, not just look good.
How did you fund the business?
Honestly? Hopes and dreams and a small bit of capital that disappeared within the first two months!
Between subscriptions charging in USD, branding costs, and refining my messaging, it’s been a crazy but necessary journey. Every dollar spent has taught me something about prioritising what actually moves the business forward versus what just looks good on paper.
It’s been scrappy, but also incredibly grounding. A real reminder that purpose and resourcefulness often build stronger foundations than big budgets.
Who or what were your biggest challenges?
My biggest challenge? Myself.
In my first business, Funk Ink, I was an absolute powerhouse. Navigating a very masculine, boys-club industry where I had to match the energy (or let’s be real, give full-on BDE).
Business back then was different. No political correctness, no conversations around harassment and survival meant showing up strong, sharp and often guarded.
Then motherhood came along, and suddenly I felt like I had lost that version of me. But what I now realise is that I didn’t lose her. I levelled up. I just didn’t know how to claim that new title.
For a long time, I doubted myself and even let a relationship define how I showed up in business. But standing where I am now, I can say it’s been freeing to reflect, own my truth, and reclaim every part of my life, both personally and professionally.
What were your biggest mistakes?
One of my biggest mistakes was letting my people pleasing tendencies seep into my business model. I didn’t even realise it was happening at first. It wasn’t until I noticed I kept getting caught up in my clients’ chaotic whirlpools instead of holding firm to my own boundaries and systems.
I also made the classic early-stage mistake of getting a credit card before I had consistent cash flow. And let’s just say, I learned very quickly that optimism does not pay interest or bills.
And honestly, not having a clearly defined business model from the start cost me a lot of time, money, and sweat equity. I kept redoing things instead of refining them. Simply because I hadn’t paused long enough to build a sustainable foundation. Also time doesn’t offer refunds!
Each of those lessons hurt at the time, but they have shaped the way I operate today: clearer, grounded, and unapologetically structured.
Do you regret anything?
Yes, not being as planned and prepared as I should have been from a cash flow management perspective.
In the early stages, I was driven by passion and purpose, but I didn’t always match that with the same level of financial structure. I learned the hard way that consistency in cash flow isn’t just about income. it is about systems, forecasting, and discipline.
It is one of those lessons that stings at first but becomes invaluable later. Now, I treat financial awareness as a form of self-respect and it is completely changed the way I build and scale.
Who was your first customer?
My first paid client for intuitive guidance was a 24-year-old student who felt completely stuck and uncertain about the direction of their life.
It was such a powerful reminder that clarity isn’t just a business concept, it is deeply human. That first session showed me how transformative it can be to hold space for someone as they reconnect with themselves and see new possibilities unfold.
That experience became the foundation of what Inspired Consulting is today – helping people move from confusion to confidence with compassion and direction.
How/why did you come up with your brand name?
I originally launched Inspired Consulting in 2018, but at the time, I convinced myself I needed more qualifications. So I paused to study for my MBA.
The name itself came to me during a government program called the NEIS initiative where I was completing a Certificate IV in Business Administration. I remember them telling me I couldn’t use a previously registered business name, and for a brief moment, I considered calling it Funk Ink Agency. A nod to my earlier business.
But deep down, my intuition knew better. Inspired Consulting just felt aligned. It represented not only what I wanted to do i.e. inspire others, but also who I wanted to be. Someone who leads from intuition, creativity, and purpose.
How did you use marketing for your business?
I think marketing casts an extremely wide net. For me, it started with the foundations: branding, personal messaging, and genuine connection.
At this stage, my focus has been on building an authentic digital footprint, refining my website, strengthening SEO, and ensuring every piece of content truly reflects who I am and what Inspired Consulting stands for. It’s been less about selling and more about storytelling. Creating resonance before conversion.
Next year, I will be implementing a full strategic marketing plan that brings together content, community, and conversion. The three pillars that form the heartbeat of InspiredCo.
Who were/are your mentors? Who do you look up to? Why?
My greatest mentor has always been my late brother, Viloshen Covenden. He was the heart behind my first business, Funk Ink, and the reason I ever stepped into entrepreneurship in the first place. His creativity, resilience, and belief in building something bigger than yourself continues to guide every decision I make, both in business and in life.
Through him, I learned that purpose isn’t about perfection. It is about passion, persistence and staying true to what lights you up. I also draw deep inspiration from voices like Maya Angelou and James Baldwin, who shaped the way I understand truth, resilience, and the power of words to move generations.
And musically, my soul has always been led by the pioneers of Hip Hop: KRS-One, MC Lyte, Queen Latifah, and Ice Cube. They taught me the importance of using your voice, standing firm in your message, and owning your narrative unapologetically.
But at the core of it all, it is still Viloshen’s legacy that fuels everything I do, reminding me to create fearlessly, live intentionally, and inspire others to do the same.
Who or what inspires you?
Our daughter, Reya, is my greatest inspiration. She has reshaped me in ways I never expected. Teaching me resilience, patience, and joy on an entirely new level. She brings out my playfulness, creativity, and sense of wonder. And she reminds me daily that empowerment starts with how we show up in our own lives.
Her existence dares me to be fierce, bold, and intentional to build a life and legacy she can be proud of. Everything I do is, in some way, a reflection of her light.
What are you most passionate about?
I am most passionate about connection, music, and authenticity. Connection is the heartbeat of everything I do. Whether it’s through coaching, conversation, or community. I’m driven by helping people feel seen, heard, and inspired.
Music has always been my first language. It’s where my creativity was born and where I first understood the power of emotion and storytelling. They are lessons I now carry into business and life.
And authenticity is my compass. I believe the world doesn’t need more perfection, it needs more truth. Staying real, grounded, and aligned is what allows every other passion to flow freely.
When you first started, what did success look like?
When I first started, success looked like the classic dream. Driving a brand-new luxury car, owning a beautiful home, and building real wealth.
At that stage, I equated success with achievement and material milestones. It was about the symbols that said, “I’ve made it.”
What does it look like now? has it changed?
Yes, absolutely. I have grown personally, professionally, and spiritually. I have realised success is far deeper than that. It is about freedom, peace, and purpose. It is about living in alignment, doing work that matters, and creating a legacy my daughter can be proud of.
Tell me about the time you hired your first employee/s?
Does ChatGPT count? Because honestly, that’s where it started!
In all seriousness, my first experience with ‘hiring’ came through working with remote contractors rather than traditional employees. While the labour costs can be more efficient, I quickly learned that the real investment is in training. Helping them understand not just the task, but the Australian communication style, standard and expectation of professionalism.
It has been a process of trial and error, patience, and refining systems. But it has also taught me valuable lessons in leadership, clarity, and the importance of creating frameworks that empower people to work with heart and accountability, no matter where they’re based.
What was your biggest challenge?
Was? I hope I never stop facing challenges because, honestly, they’re opportunities for growth, feedback, and realignment.
Every obstacle I have faced has taught me something valuable about myself and my business. Whether it’s been rebuilding from burnout, navigating motherhood and entrepreneurship, or learning to trust my own voice again each challenge has helped me evolve into a stronger, more intentional version of myself.
I have learned to see challenges not as setbacks, but as mirrors reflecting where I need to grow, refine, and rise.
What was the biggest marketing budget you ever had?
In my launch year, my biggest marketing budget was $5,000 and that included branding. It was a mix of design, content creation, and foundational marketing assets to bring Inspired Consulting to life.
Every dollar had to stretch, but it taught me how to be resourceful and creative finding ways to make impact without overspending.
Who are/were your main competitors?
If I’m being 100% honest, I haven’t really focused on that. When I first considered relaunching Inspired Consulting, I spent way too much time overthinking how saturated the market was. It felt like everyone was doing something similar, and I almost talked myself out of it.
But over time, I realised something powerful. Your vibe attracts your tribe. There is space for everyone when you’re operating in alignment and authenticity. We might offer similar services, but no one else can replicate your story, your energy, or your impact.
And as I like to say there is always enough biryani to go around. 🌶
Do you consider your brand to be an industry Leader or Follower? Why?
Leader. For sure. Because at my core, I am not a follower.
Inspired Consulting was never built to replicate what others are doing. It was created to redefine what authentic, intuitive and strategic business growth looks like. And especially for others to carve their own paths.
Leadership to me isn’t about being ahead of others it is about being anchored in purpose, setting your own pace, and inspiring others to do the same.
Did you have any routines or rituals?
Absolutely! 💯 Daily affirmations are a non-negotiable for me.
A mix of Napoleon Hill, Louise Hay, and Abraham Hicks keeps my mindset anchored and intentional. I start my mornings with words that remind me of my power, purpose, and potential.
I also dedicate at least ten minutes a day to either guided meditation or stillness. It helps me regulate my nervous system and reconnect with myself — especially as someone managing severe PTSD and a form of dyslexia.
These daily check-ins are more than just routine. They are how I stay centred, grounded and clear. No matter how unpredictable entrepreneurship or life gets!
What would you do differently today if starting over?
I have thought about this a lot. For a while, I wondered if maybe I should have waited until my daughter, Reya, started school before relaunching to make things a little easier and less chaotic.
But now I realise that this is my authentic journey. Every late night, every juggle, every imperfect moment has shaped the woman, mother, and business owner I have become.
I wouldn’t change it, because it’s all part of the story that makes Inspired Consulting real. This path with all its twists and timing is exactly the one I was meant to walk toward success.
Why do you think you have lasted this long in business?
Call it resilience, perseverance, or maybe just good old-fashioned stubbornness, but I don’t like to fail or live with regrets that linger.
There is something in me that refuses to give up, even when things get tough. Every challenge, setback, and pivot has strengthened my ability to adapt and keep moving forward.
I have lasted this long because I believe deeply in what I do and who I’m becoming through it. Inspired Consulting isn’t just a business, it’s a reflection of my growth, grit, and purpose.
If you could change anything in the world, what would it be?
Ooh, I’m not sure the world is ready for my full boldness!
But if I could change anything, it would be the power dynamics of governments and what true democracy really means.
I believe societies, communities, and individuals could thrive more peacefully and powerfully if the balance of power genuinely shifted back to the people. The ones governments are actually meant to serve. And not big business alone.
When humanity leads with collaboration instead of control, we unlock a deeper level of collective intelligence, compassion and growth. The world doesn’t need more hierarchy, it needs more heart-led leadership.
What’s your favourite pastime/gadget?
Dance and music. Always!
They are my go-to outlets for expression, healing, and joy. Whether it’s an impromptu living-room dance session with Reya or getting lost in a playlist that shifts my mood. Movement and rhythm have always been my way of reconnecting with myself.
It is where creativity flows, ideas are born, and inspiration feels effortless.
What is your favourite brand/celebrity/actor?
Tupac.
He was more than an artist. He was a visionary, a poet, and a truth-teller who wasn’t afraid to challenge systems or speak for those who didn’t have a voice. His words carried both power and pain, but always with purpose.
What inspires me most about Tupac is his duality. His ability to be both vulnerable and fierce, grounded and revolutionary. That’s the kind of authenticity and courage I try to bring into my own work and life.
Did we go to the moon?
Absolutely not!
There’s this weird belt called the Van Allen Radiation Belt that apparently can’t be crossed safely by humans. So, if we supposedly made it to the Moon in the 1960s with technology that was primitive compared to today, why haven’t we been able to go back since?
With all the advancements we have made in science, AI, and space tech, it just doesn’t add up. I am not saying I have all the answers, but I do love asking the questions.
Maybe it is not about conspiracy maybe it is about curiosity, and reminding ourselves to always challenge what we’re told.
Are you a conspiracist?
No, I am not a conspiracist. I’m a holistic thinker. I like to look at things from all angles – i.e. spiritual, logical, emotional and energetic before forming an opinion. I believe curiosity and critical thinking are healthy, especially in a world where information moves fast and truth often sits somewhere in the middle.
What’s next for you and the company?
Great questions! Hmm what is next for me and Inspired Consulting?
The evolution into an all-in-one Business Development Agency – a space where strategy, branding, marketing, and purpose meet.
I am stepping fully into my role as an Inspiration Connoisseur. Someone who helps people gain clarity, find direction, and pursue intentionality in both business and life.
The next chapter is about expansion, building systems that empower others to thrive while staying deeply connected to what matters most. Humanity, creativity, and impact.
