Upgrade Your Education Business

Thinking of starting a membership for your tutoring or education business? Or want to improve the one you already have?In this episode, I share five lessons from running my Mastermind for over four years. You'll learn how to build a sustainable membership, keep members engaged, and focus on retention as well as sales.Whether you're looking to grow your business or support your clients in new ways, this episode offers practical, honest insight.Enjoy :-)Sumantha____________________

In this episode, I share why it's important to reconnect with your vision, not just your daily tasks. Let your vision remind you why you started and guide your next steps. Take a moment to revisit your bigger picture and keep moving towards the future you want.Enjoy :-)Sumantha____________________

In this episode, I talk about how to show up confidently on LinkedIn as a tutor or education business owner.If you feel unsure about what to post or how to build visibility, you're not alone. I share simple ways to use LinkedIn with purpose, build real connections, and grow your business without pressure.You'll also hear why confidence matters more than engagement and how to find your voice by observing others.For practical LinkedIn training, check the link in the show notes.Enjoy :-)SumanthaPt 1 LinkedIn Profile & Content StrategyPt 2 LinkedIn: Get The Results You Want____________________

In this episode, I share why business success is about finding your own pace, not rushing to keep up with others. I talk about the importance of checking in with yourself, taking breaks, and building something sustainable. Remember, steady progress is powerful - honour your rhythm.Enjoy :-)Sumantha____________________

This is one of the most powerful discussions I've had on the podcast.Hugh Viney, CEO of Minerva Tutors and Minerva Virtual Academy, shares his honest methods that helped him:Create a tuition business that didn't need himCreate an online school using a £50k loan from his tuition businessMy favourite thing about this conversation is how Hugh breaks down all of his decisions making it accessible to anyone aspiring to take their businesses to new heights.Enjoy :-) SumanthaAbout Hugh Viney:Over the last eleven years since founding Minerva, Hugh's leadership and dedication has enabled thousands of students, overlooked by the traditional system, to receive the education and qualifications they deserve. He founded Minerva Virtual Academy, a multi-award-winning online school for students aged 11-18 and the UK's fastest-growing school, having grown to 1100 full-time students (and counting) in 4 years. It is also the largest online school of its kind to be accredited by the Department for Education. Today, he leads MVA's mission to provide a flexible and supportive alternative to traditional school, giving more young people access to the British Curriculum in a way that works for them.InstagramXLinkedIn ____________________

I share how “success leaves clues” and how they can be used to encourage you to notice what works for others, then adapt those ideas to suit your own education business. Find what feels right for you and let it guide your journey.Enjoy :-)Sumantha____________________

In this episode, I reflect on attending Atomicon 2025 and how it changed my mindset around investing in my business. I share why stepping outside the education space can spark powerful ideas, and how spending wisely can lead to real growth.You'll hear practical tips on marketing, sales, and follow-ups, especially if you've ever been ghosted by enquiries. This is for tutors and education business owners ready to grow with purpose.If you're thinking about going to Atomicon, here's my link: https://atomic.site/atomicon26/?aap=720Enjoy :-)Sumantha____________________

This episode highlights the value of quiet wins in business. While big achievements are celebrated, it's the small, unseen moments that build real success and trust over time. Don't overlook the magic in what happens behind the scenes.Enjoy :-)Sumantha____________________

In this episode of Upgrade Your Education Business, I share practical strategies to help tutors and education business owners confidently approach sales. You'll learn how clear messaging, direct offers, and strategic sales conversations can boost your client conversions. I'll also reveal why comparing your sales to others can be misleading, and how to shift your focus for better business growth. Ideal for education entrepreneurs wanting effective sales and marketing techniques. Enjoy :-) Sumantha____________________

In this episode, I share why it's important to run your business your way. I talk about ignoring advice that doesn't suit you and building a business that feels good and fits your life.Enjoy :-) Sumantha____________________

Struggling with tricky client situations? This episode is for you.Sumantha covers:Handling discount requests without undervaluing yourselfWhen to enforce your terms and when to make exceptionsChoosing between hourly rates or block paymentsHow to sell group classes when clients want one-to-onesAdapt advice to fit your business - small tweaks can make a big difference.Enjoy :-)Sumantha____________________

This episode tackles perfectionism in business and why progress matters more - it's not just a catchy phrase.I share tips on embracing imperfect action, learning as you go, and building momentum; because growth comes from moving forward, not waiting for things to be perfect.Enjoy :-) Sumantha____________________

Get ready for a pinch of silliness, some laughs and A LOT of value!Sarah Capewell and I recorded this spontaneous episode to answer some excellent questions from our community.Here's what we covered:What to do when you're fully booked and don't want to add more evening lessons or teach at weekendsWhen planning for tutoring, where to start with resources and lesson planning.Getting parents to trust you're a great tutor.How to find reputable international agents.How to turn messages on messenger into actual calls or clients, what to do when you're ghosted and how to communicate your value.Enjoy :-) Sumantha____________________

In a day and age where 'shiny object syndrome' is a thing, in this soundbite, I explore whether it boils down to us being afraid of boredom ...I'd love to know your thoughts.Enjoy :-) Sumantha____________________

It's time to break that feast and famine cycle in our businesses - without it meaning working all the time!When you're a small business owner, it's easy to be on the constant treadmill of chasing new clients. Often, it's driven by fear of the 'famine'.But, as I explore in this episode, it doesn't have to be that way.This episode is for you if you want to break that cycle and create something that's designed for you.Enjoy :-) Sumantha____________________

So much falls under the 'boundaries' umbrella.In this short soundbite, I navigate through a few boundaries we need to pay attention to as education business owners.Enjoy :-) Sumantha____________________

Community is so powerful - we know this - but how do we find the right one for us?In this episode, I talk about the benefits of being in the right kind of community and how it can massively impact our businesses.Enjoy :-) Sumantha____________________

I think you'll like this reframe.Rejection stings—it's natural. But what if you reframed it as redirection?Enjoy this week's short soundbite!Sumantha____________________

Running a tutoring business, whether you're an independent tutor or hire tutors or whatever - it's not a “less serious” version of running a business. It is a business. So, in this episode, I share 5 key areas to pay attention to so you can keep doing what you love for longer.Enjoy :-) Sumantha____________________

Nope, this isn't woo woo! Yep, this is powerful.Gratitude isn't just a feel-good practice. It's a game changer for our mindset.Tune into this short soundbite to find out why!Enjoy :-) Sumantha____________________

It's time to make word of mouth intentional and not a happy accident!In this episode, I share some simple and effective tips to encourage referrals in a way that doesn't feel uncomfortable.And if you're a Masterminder, here is the link to the training to attract more enquiries (including word of mouth referrals). Eunice - hyperlink this line to this link: https://www.tutorsmastermind.com/signin/post/296 Enjoy :-) Sumantha____________________

Saying no isn't about being difficult—it's about being intentional. In this short soundbite, I cast a light on the importance of mastering this two-letter word - 'no'!Enjoy :-) Sumantha____________________

Standing out isn't about looking better than your competition. It's about being you.In this episode, I share practical and strategic ideas to help you attract the right clients.Enjoy :-) Sumantha____________________

I'm no expert in imposter syndrome, and it can be pretty complex.But I have had experience in supporting people who experience it.In this short episode, I share a tip that may well unlock a new mindset ...Enjoy :-) Sumantha____________________

Nicola Lutz joins me for this conversation on how to make selling effective without losing authenticity.She highlights a particularly important point - we need to be doing something every day to move the needle on our sales.Enjoy :-) Sumantha____________________

We often focus on doing. But space is just as important.In this short soundbite, I explore the role reflection plays in growth.Enjoy :-) Sumantha____________________

Group classes are a fabulous way to support students who thrive in that environment while earning more without teaching more.BUT, they can also come with a lot of admin.In this episode, I share key considerations to make sure your transition is smooth, you price your groups correctly and share tips to promote them successfully.Enjoy :-) SumanthaLinks MentionedLaunch, Teach & Fill Group Classes CoursesFrom The Tutors' MastermindAttract students to groups Group Class Sales Clinic____________________

As small business owners, it's easy to fall into the scarcity mindset.In this short soundbite, I offer some reframes for you to lean on whenever you have a moment of doubt.Enjoy :-) Sumantha____________________

Social media isn't our full-time jobs! In this episode, I help you streamline your marketing so it's effective without being time consuming.Links mentioned:1 Year Content Plan Mastermind TrainingEnjoy :-)Sumantha____________________

This short soundbite zooms into how we can take small actions for big results.And you guessed it - it's all about consistency!Enjoy :-) Sumantha____________________

This strategic episode will help you make the most of what you're using rather than asking you to throw more at it.Effective content marketing is about inviting people to stay in your world and keeping them there.Because, if we're putting time and effort into something, we need it to pay off.Enjoy :-) Sumantha____________________

In this short soundbite, I explore how we can make sure our mindset supports us.We know how important mindset is, but sometimes we need a reminder :-) Enjoy!Sumantha____________________

By the end of this episode, you're going to be more relaxed about selling - up for the challenge!Sales doesn't rely on being pushy. But it does rely on some tried and tested methods you can mould to suit your style.Listen to this episode to embed these strategies into your sales process now.Enjoy :-) Sumantha____________________

We're often scared of people leaving, so we make it hard. But what if we made it easy?What if, instead, we made it hard to want to leave?Listen to this week's short soundbite to get ideas of how you can embed this into your way of working.Enjoy :-) Sumantha____________________

We're often scared of people leaving, so we make it hard. But what if we made it easy?What if, instead, we made it hard to want to leave?Listen to this week's short soundbite to get ideas of how you can embed this into your way of working.Enjoy :-) Sumantha____________________

'It takes years to be an overnight success!' We know it, but do we always remember it?In this short soundbite, I explore how to immerse yourself in a mindset of doing things today that your future self will thank you for.Enjoy :-) Sumantha____________________

So, let's talk podcasts!Edu podcasts are on the rise, and whether you have one, thinking of creating one or are new to one, this episode is for you.I share key things I've learnt from over 100 episodes ...Enjoy :-) Sumantha____________________

We know self-care is important, but have you ever thought of it as part of your business strategy?In this short soundbite, I explain why it should be.Enjoy :-) Sumantha____________________

Launching new things can be overwhelming and scary. Well, not anymore!In this episode, I share a range of ideas and strategies to make launching feel safer so you can do it with confidence.No more worrying about whether your new thing will sell!Enjoy :-) Sumantha____________________

'Progress over perfection' isn't just a catchy slogan.It is such an important aspect of business growth because waiting for perfection can cost you opportunities.In this short soundbite, I share a way I get started with imperfect action that might give you some ideas!Enjoy :-) Sumantha____________________

Showing off is one of the most important marketing strategies and yet we often feel uncomfortable with doing it.So, in this episode, I'm fixing that! I share a range of ways to show off minus the cringe so you can show the world how amazing you are.Enjoy :-) Sumantha____________________

What if people say I'm too expensive? What if no-one buys?Fear can be a blocker that keeps us small.Listen to this soundbite where I offer a quick reframe ...Enjoy :-) Sumantha____________________

Social media is a long game. So, in this episode, I share 10 ways to attract students without it!This doesn't necessarily mean you need to do all 10. It doesn't mean you need to abandon social media.However, there is more we can be doing - without it taking over our lives - to support our marketing efforts.Links MentionedConvertKit (email marketing) - https://partners.kit.com/iclrc1ea976oKartra (all in one) - https://try.kartra.com/dphp4njii2txDescript (easy video editing) - https://get.descript.com/tv0tlirdtc1y Enjoy :-) Sumantha____________________

In this short soundbite, I explore what we can do during seasonal downtimes (panicking isn't one of my ideas!)Seasonality is normal and natural, so how can make the most of it?Enjoy :-) Sumantha____________________

In this episode, Lea Turner joins me to explore the ripple effect of purpose-driven business. We discuss building a strong community, leading with heart, and how your impact shapes personal branding and pricing. Discover how to align your values, deepen connections, and elevate your education business.Listen now to learn:How to build a heart-led, community-focused business.The role of impact in confident pricing.Why personal branding is about connection, not perfection.Enjoy :-) SumanthaAbout Lea Turner: Lea burst onto the LinkedIn scene in 2019, transforming her small transcription business through humorous, relatable, and uplifting social media posts that garnered rapid attention and over 10,000 followers in a short time. Lea is the proud founder of The HoLT Community—a thriving business membership with over 580 members worldwide. In addition, she hosts The HoLT's Survival Guide for Small Businesses podcast, where she has insightful, humorous and relatable conversations with fellow small business owners, offering advice tailored to the unique challenges of small business ownership.____________________

What does success mean to you? Have you defined it?In this short soundbite, I talk about a way to redefine success so you no longer compete with others and stay focused on your goals.Enjoy :-)Sumantha____________________

If you're in the launch stages of your tuition business, this one is for you.My strategies and tips will get you making sales and starting strong without wasting time on things that can wait.Enjoy :-) Sumantha____________________

Celebrating wins is more than a cliche - it's a powerful strategy to make more sales.Tutors, take a listen to this short soundbite for an instantly actionable reframe that'll strengthen your goals.Enjoy :-) Sumantha____________________

There's a lot of bad advice floating around about group classes.In this episode, I've chosen a small selection, turned them on their head and provided solutions that actually work.Enjoy :-) Sumantha____________________

This episode is filled with lightbulb moments!In 4 minutes, I weave through some common reasons why people experience 'freeze' - when they want to do something, but just can't seem to get it done.Enjoy :-) Sumantha____________________

To celebrate 8 years out of the classroom, I share 8 (non-obvious) lessons learned.I won't give them away - you'll have to listen!Enjoy :-) Sumantha____________________