Podcast
Upgrade Your Education Business
Hosted by Sumantha McMahon · EN
Upgrade Your Education Business is the go-to podcast for private tutors and education business owners who want to grow a sustainable, joyful business without following formulas or burning out.
Hosted by experienced business mentor Sumantha McMahon, each episode is packed with practical marketing and sales strategies, mindset insights, and real talk about the highs and lows of running your own tutoring business.
Whether you’re just starting or looking to refine and simplify what you’ve built, you’ll find inspiration and actionable advice that helps you attract students, boost your visibility, and create a business that works for your version of success.
🎧 New episodes every week, including short mindset boosters and deeper strategy sessions.
36episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
PS 153 Filling September without the scramble
4d ago00:03:31Tap to summarizeAs September approaches, it's easy to slip into panic about filling your diary. In this episode, Sumantha explains why chasing clients from a place of fear often pushes them away and shares a calmer, more effective approach to attracting enquiries. Discover how consistent visibility, valuable content and building demand over time can help you fill your autumn diary with confidence, rather than last minute pressure.____________________👋🏽 Hello! I'm Sumantha McMahon, and I've supported over 100 tutors and education business owners.As a teacher 'dropout' turned professional tutor, combined with my 20+ years as a business owner, I'm in it with you! Yes, I'm qualified too :-)My training leans on tried-and-tested methods that are completely tailored to our niche.Work with me to breathe life into YOUR definition of success:#1 Bespoke 1:1 MentoringHigh-touch 6-month programme for tutors who want to make their business more lucrative, in a sustainable way for the future, while protecting the impact they make.#2 The Tutors' MastermindThe leading membership for tutors that combines tailored training (live and recorded), a community of like-minded business owners and exclusive discounts.This podcast is recorded using Riverside. Sign up for your account here (free plan available)____________________Sometimes, I share links to resources and apps that I recommend. They are all based on my experience - if I don't love them, I don't recommend them. In some cases, I earn a small commission for my recommendation, at no cost to you.© 2024 Sumantha McMahon
Transcribe →What Are You Doing Well?
6d ago00:12:11Tap to summarizeSummaryIn this episode, I explore how focusing on what you already do well can protect and amplify your business success. I share practical strategies for identifying your strengths, reflecting on your impact, and optimizing existing client attraction methods.Takeaways• Identify what you already do well and protect it.• Focus on one big goal to avoid distraction.• Reflect on your impact from your client's perspective.• Audit your client attraction methods for effectiveness.• Adjust your strategies based on current context.____________________👋🏽 Hello! I'm Sumantha McMahon, and I've supported over 100 tutors and education business owners.As a teacher 'dropout' turned professional tutor, combined with my 20+ years as a business owner, I'm in it with you! Yes, I'm qualified too :-)My training leans on tried-and-tested methods that are completely tailored to our niche.Work with me to breathe life into YOUR definition of success:#1 Bespoke 1:1 MentoringHigh-touch 6-month programme for tutors who want to make their business more lucrative, in a sustainable way for the future, while protecting the impact they make.#2 The Tutors' MastermindThe leading membership for tutors that combines tailored training (live and recorded), a community of like-minded business owners and exclusive discounts.This podcast is recorded using Riverside. Sign up for your account here (free plan available)____________________Sometimes, I share links to resources and apps that I recommend. They are all based on my experience - if I don't love them, I don't recommend them. In some cases, I earn a small commission for my recommendation, at no cost to you.© 2024 Sumantha McMahon
Transcribe →PS 152: Permission to take the break
2w ago00:03:15Tap to summarizeIn this episode, I explore why so many tutors feel guilty about resting and why that mindset can hold them back. She explains how embracing rest can lead to better decisions, greater wellbeing and a more sustainable tutoring business.____________________👋🏽 Hello! I'm Sumantha McMahon, and I've supported over 100 tutors and education business owners.As a teacher 'dropout' turned professional tutor, combined with my 20+ years as a business owner, I'm in it with you! Yes, I'm qualified too :-)My training leans on tried-and-tested methods that are completely tailored to our niche.Work with me to breathe life into YOUR definition of success:#1 Bespoke 1:1 MentoringHigh-touch 6-month programme for tutors who want to make their business more lucrative, in a sustainable way for the future, while protecting the impact they make.#2 The Tutors' MastermindThe leading membership for tutors that combines tailored training (live and recorded), a community of like-minded business owners and exclusive discounts.This podcast is recorded using Riverside. Sign up for your account here (free plan available)____________________Sometimes, I share links to resources and apps that I recommend. They are all based on my experience - if I don't love them, I don't recommend them. In some cases, I earn a small commission for my recommendation, at no cost to you.© 2024 Sumantha McMahon
Transcribe →The Income Dip Every Tutor Faces and How to Plan for It
2w ago00:16:56Tap to summarizeEvery tutor faces an income dip at some point. The question is whether it catches you off guard every time or whether you have a plan for it. This episode covers both. What to do if you are in one right now, and how to make sure it never blindsides you again.In this episode, you will discover:• Why the income dip feels more alarming than it usually is, and what that feeling is actually telling you• Practical things you can do right now if you are already in a quieter period• How to use a sales boost to create momentum even when the diary is thin• Why planning your finances around the academic year is working against you, and what to do instead• How your pricing might be part of the problem and how to start thinking about it differentlyYou might also find this useful:• Episode 211: The Tutors Who Grow the Fastest Do This in Summer• Episode 205: Avoiding Burnout As A Tutor Business Owner • Episode 209: How to Set Your Tutoring Prices____________________👋🏽 Hello! I'm Sumantha McMahon, and I've supported over 100 tutors and education business owners.As a teacher 'dropout' turned professional tutor, combined with my 20+ years as a business owner, I'm in it with you! Yes, I'm qualified too :-)My training leans on tried-and-tested methods that are completely tailored to our niche.Work with me to breathe life into YOUR definition of success:#1 Bespoke 1:1 MentoringHigh-touch 6-month programme for tutors who want to make their business more lucrative, in a sustainable way for the future, while protecting the impact they make.#2 The Tutors' MastermindThe leading membership for tutors that combines tailored training (live and recorded), a community of like-minded business owners and exclusive discounts.This podcast is recorded using Riverside. Sign up for your account here (free plan available)____________________Sometimes, I share links to resources and apps that I recommend. They are all based on my experience - if I don't love them, I don't recommend them. In some cases, I earn a small commission for my recommendation, at no cost to you.© 2024 Sumantha McMahon
Transcribe →PS 151 What a quieter summer is really for
3w ago00:03:58Tap to summarizeIn this episode, I share why a quieter summer doesn't mean something has gone wrong. Instead of seeing an emptier diary as a reason to worry, I encourage you to use this slower season to reflect, refocus, and choose one meaningful change that will set you up for a stronger autumn. And just as importantly, I remind you to make time for a proper break too. ____________________👋🏽 Hello! I'm Sumantha McMahon, and I've supported over 100 tutors and education business owners.As a teacher 'dropout' turned professional tutor, combined with my 20+ years as a business owner, I'm in it with you! Yes, I'm qualified too :-)My training leans on tried-and-tested methods that are completely tailored to our niche.Work with me to breathe life into YOUR definition of success:#1 Bespoke 1:1 MentoringHigh-touch 6-month programme for tutors who want to make their business more lucrative, in a sustainable way for the future, while protecting the impact they make.#2 The Tutors' MastermindThe leading membership for tutors that combines tailored training (live and recorded), a community of like-minded business owners and exclusive discounts.This podcast is recorded using Riverside. Sign up for your account here (free plan available)____________________Sometimes, I share links to resources and apps that I recommend. They are all based on my experience - if I don't love them, I don't recommend them. In some cases, I earn a small commission for my recommendation, at no cost to you.© 2024 Sumantha McMahon
Transcribe →The Tutors Who Grow the Fastest Do This in Summer
3w ago00:19:09Tap to summarizeIn this episode, I share strategic insights for tutors on how to leverage quieter periods in their business to build a more sustainable and profitable future. She emphasizes the importance of intentional planning, making strategic decisions, and investing in thinking during these times.Takeaways• Quiet periods are opportunities, not gaps, for strategic growth.• Focus on one strategic decision during quieter times to move your business forward.• Invest in your thinking through reading, coaching, or reflection to make better decisions.____________________👋🏽 Hello! I'm Sumantha McMahon, and I've supported over 100 tutors and education business owners.As a teacher 'dropout' turned professional tutor, combined with my 20+ years as a business owner, I'm in it with you! Yes, I'm qualified too :-)My training leans on tried-and-tested methods that are completely tailored to our niche.Work with me to breathe life into YOUR definition of success:#1 Bespoke 1:1 MentoringHigh-touch 6-month programme for tutors who want to make their business more lucrative, in a sustainable way for the future, while protecting the impact they make.#2 The Tutors' MastermindThe leading membership for tutors that combines tailored training (live and recorded), a community of like-minded business owners and exclusive discounts.This podcast is recorded using Riverside. Sign up for your account here (free plan available)____________________Sometimes, I share links to resources and apps that I recommend. They are all based on my experience - if I don't love them, I don't recommend them. In some cases, I earn a small commission for my recommendation, at no cost to you.© 2024 Sumantha McMahon
Transcribe →PS 150 The Business You're Building When You're Not Thinking About It
Jun 1700:03:26Tap to summarizeIn this episode, I reflect on the quieter side of building a business, how you respond when things do not go to plan.Success is not about everything working first time, but about staying curious and engaged when it does not.It is that resilience, choosing to keep going and learning, that truly builds your business.____________________👋🏽 Hello! I'm Sumantha McMahon, and I've supported over 100 tutors and education business owners.As a teacher 'dropout' turned professional tutor, combined with my 20+ years as a business owner, I'm in it with you! Yes, I'm qualified too :-)My training leans on tried-and-tested methods that are completely tailored to our niche.Work with me to breathe life into YOUR definition of success:#1 Bespoke 1:1 MentoringHigh-touch 6-month programme for tutors who want to make their business more lucrative, in a sustainable way for the future, while protecting the impact they make.#2 The Tutors' MastermindThe leading membership for tutors that combines tailored training (live and recorded), a community of like-minded business owners and exclusive discounts.This podcast is recorded using Riverside. Sign up for your account here (free plan available)____________________Sometimes, I share links to resources and apps that I recommend. They are all based on my experience - if I don't love them, I don't recommend them. In some cases, I earn a small commission for my recommendation, at no cost to you.© 2024 Sumantha McMahon
Transcribe →Why Tutors With Big Ideas Still Feel Stuck (And How to Move Forward)
Jun 1500:12:46Tap to summarizeThis episode addresses the common overwhelm faced by tutors and education business owners when contemplating growth. It emphasizes the importance of clarity about personal goals, strategic thinking, and the value of ongoing support to build a sustainable, lucrative business aligned with one's life vision.____________________👋🏽 Hello! I'm Sumantha McMahon, and I've supported over 100 tutors and education business owners.As a teacher 'dropout' turned professional tutor, combined with my 20+ years as a business owner, I'm in it with you! Yes, I'm qualified too :-)My training leans on tried-and-tested methods that are completely tailored to our niche.Work with me to breathe life into YOUR definition of success:#1 Bespoke 1:1 MentoringHigh-touch 6-month programme for tutors who want to make their business more lucrative, in a sustainable way for the future, while protecting the impact they make.#2 The Tutors' MastermindThe leading membership for tutors that combines tailored training (live and recorded), a community of like-minded business owners and exclusive discounts.This podcast is recorded using Riverside. Sign up for your account here (free plan available)____________________Sometimes, I share links to resources and apps that I recommend. They are all based on my experience - if I don't love them, I don't recommend them. In some cases, I earn a small commission for my recommendation, at no cost to you.© 2024 Sumantha McMahon
Transcribe →PS 149 Good Enough Is Not The Same As Settling
Jun 1000:03:48Tap to summarizeIn this episode, I reframe “good enough” as a strategic choice rather than a compromise. Perfectionism often delays progress and keeps ideas from being tested.By starting with a simpler version, you can validate what works before investing more time and energy. It is not about lowering standards, but about making smarter decisions that move your business forward.____________________👋🏽 Hello! I'm Sumantha McMahon, and I've supported over 100 tutors and education business owners.As a teacher 'dropout' turned professional tutor, combined with my 20+ years as a business owner, I'm in it with you! Yes, I'm qualified too :-)My training leans on tried-and-tested methods that are completely tailored to our niche.Work with me to breathe life into YOUR definition of success:#1 Bespoke 1:1 MentoringHigh-touch 6-month programme for tutors who want to make their business more lucrative, in a sustainable way for the future, while protecting the impact they make.#2 The Tutors' MastermindThe leading membership for tutors that combines tailored training (live and recorded), a community of like-minded business owners and exclusive discounts.This podcast is recorded using Riverside. Sign up for your account here (free plan available)____________________Sometimes, I share links to resources and apps that I recommend. They are all based on my experience - if I don't love them, I don't recommend them. In some cases, I earn a small commission for my recommendation, at no cost to you.© 2024 Sumantha McMahon
Transcribe →How to Set Your Tutoring Prices
Jun 800:20:51Tap to summarizeSummaryIn this episode, I explore the psychology and strategy behind pricing for tutors and education business owners. We discuss why market research is not always the answer, how confidence and self-worth can influence pricing decisions, and how to create a pricing strategy that supports the business and lifestyle you want.TakeawaysPricing is influenced by psychology as much as strategy.Market research is less useful for unique offers.Your prices should support your business goals and lifestyle.Fear of losing clients can hold you back from raising rates.Pricing often reflects confidence, not just value.Tiered pricing and grandfathering can make price increases easier.Price increases are a normal part of business growth.Build your pricing around your business, not your competitors.____________________👋🏽 Hello! I'm Sumantha McMahon, and I've supported over 100 tutors and education business owners.As a teacher 'dropout' turned professional tutor, combined with my 20+ years as a business owner, I'm in it with you! Yes, I'm qualified too :-)My training leans on tried-and-tested methods that are completely tailored to our niche.Work with me to breathe life into YOUR definition of success:#1 Bespoke 1:1 MentoringHigh-touch 6-month programme for tutors who want to make their business more lucrative, in a sustainable way for the future, while protecting the impact they make.#2 The Tutors' MastermindThe leading membership for tutors that combines tailored training (live and recorded), a community of like-minded business owners and exclusive discounts.This podcast is recorded using Riverside. Sign up for your account here (free plan available)____________________Sometimes, I share links to resources and apps that I recommend. They are all based on my experience - if I don't love them, I don't recommend them. In some cases, I earn a small commission for my recommendation, at no cost to you.© 2024 Sumantha McMahon
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