Upgrade Your Education Business

Hosted by Sumantha McMahon

Business Entrepreneurship Education

Website RSS feed

Episodes

300

Latest episode

Oct 2026

Language

About the show

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.

Listen to episodes

60 recent

October 28, 20262 min

PS 167 The enquiry you didn't follow up

This episode explores why following up with potential clients doesn’t have to feel pushy or like you’re chasing them. I reframe follow-ups as finishing a conversation and explain how offering something useful can give people a genuine reason to respond. I also share a simple approach for revisiting promising conversations that have gone quiet. ____________________ 👋🏽 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 Mentoring High-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' Mastermind The 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

October 26, 202622 min

The Small Tweaks That Increased My Client's Enquiries In Just One Week

In this episode, I share practical strategies for tutors and educators to optimize their marketing efforts by tightening existing methods instead of adding more. I emphasize the importance of focusing on one platform, refining messaging, and aligning content with platform strengths to attract more inquiries and build trust. Takeaways • Most marketing efforts are good but need refinement, not more effort. • Focusing on one platform and optimizing it yields faster results. • Consistent messaging and aligning content with platform strengths are crucial. • AI should be used to polish ideas, not generate them from scratch. • Small, strategic tweaks can significantly increase inquiries. ____________________ 👋🏽 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 Mentoring High-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' Mastermind The 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

October 21, 20262 min

PS 166: The delegation guilt

This episode explores why delegation can feel uncomfortable for tutors, even when they know they need to hand things over and can afford to do so. I look at the belief that doing everything yourself is the more responsible or hardworking choice, and why that mindset no longer serves you when you are running a business. I also share a different way to think about delegation, focusing on where your time creates the most value. ____________________ 👋🏽 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 Mentoring High-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' Mastermind The 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

October 19, 202616 min

What's Your Business Telling You About Yourself?

Discover how your business reflects your beliefs, fears, and strengths. Learn practical ways to analyze your diary, pricing, and opportunities to make empowered decisions and grow your business. Takeaways • Your business reflects your current beliefs, fears, and strengths. • Review your diary honestly to understand what it reveals about you. • Pricing is a reflection of what you believe you're allowed to ask for. • Fear often disguises itself as busyness or just-in-case mentality. • Opportunities you avoid may be the next level waiting for you. • Your self-image and identity influence your business decisions. • Recognizing your strengths is as important as addressing fears. • Self-awareness can unlock powerful decisions for growth. ____________________ 👋🏽 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 Mentoring High-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' Mastermind The 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

October 14, 20264 min

PS 165 The rate you set when you were new

In this episode, I explore how tutors often set their first hourly rate based on other tutors’ prices or their previous teaching salary, and how that initial figure can continue to influence pricing years later. She challenges tutors to look beyond simply increasing their current rate and instead ask what their work is actually worth today, based on the transformation, value and peace of mind they provide to students and parents. ____________________ 👋🏽 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 Mentoring High-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' Mastermind The 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 Mentioned in this episode: Sumantha's Online Summit 2027 is now live! Grab your free ticket here: https://sumanthamcmahon.krtra.com/t/oXxtHVD48w9c

October 12, 202617 min

The Question Every Tutor Is Secretly Asking Me

In this episode, I explore how tutors can make confident decisions about pricing, social media, and AI by focusing on impact, purpose, and personal style. I share practical insights to help tutors tailor strategies to their unique business models. Takeaways • Pricing should reflect the impact and transformation, not just the offer details. • Social media can reinforce credibility and build trust, not just attract clients. • AI tools can save time if used to support existing routines, not replace genuine connection. • Trust your experience and instincts when creating unique offers. • Decide the purpose of each marketing activity before investing effort. ____________________ 👋🏽 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 Mentoring High-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' Mastermind The 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 Mentioned in this episode: Sumantha's Online Summit 2027 is now live! Grab your free ticket here: https://sumanthamcmahon.krtra.com/t/oXxtHVD48w9c

October 7, 20264 min

PS 164 The diary tells the truth

In this episode, I explore what your diary can reveal about the way you are actually running your tutoring business. I explain how old decisions, habits and commitments can continue to shape your workload long after they made sense. I share a simple question to help tutors review their time and identify what they would no longer choose today, creating opportunities to streamline their workload. ____________________ 👋🏽 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 Mentoring High-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' Mastermind The 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 Mentioned in this episode: Sumantha's Online Summit 2027 is now live! Grab your free ticket here: https://sumanthamcmahon.krtra.com/t/oXxtHVD48w9c

October 5, 202613 min

The Waiting List That Tells You What To Build

This episode explores the versatile uses of waiting lists in business, especially in tutoring, and how they can be a powerful tool for demand building, market research, and income stability. Takeaways • A waiting list is not a status symbol but a tool for demand management. • Adding questions to your waiting list can turn it into a market research tool. • You don't need to be full to benefit from a waiting list. • A waiting list helps fill unexpected gaps in your schedule. • Continuously adding new inquiries keeps your income stable. ____________________ 👋🏽 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 Mentoring High-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' Mastermind The 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 Mentioned in this episode: Sumantha's Online Summit 2027 is now live! Grab your free ticket here: https://sumanthamcmahon.krtra.com/t/oXxtHVD48w9c

September 30, 20264 min

PS 163 Allowed to find it easy

In this episode I explore why tutors can feel uncomfortable when their work starts to feel easy. Sumantha challenges the belief that success must come with exhaustion, introducing the idea of the “suffering tax”. She explains how ease can actually be the result of thoughtful planning, experience and well-designed offers, and why tutors should allow themselves to rest when the hard work has already been done. ____________________ 👋🏽 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 Mentoring High-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' Mastermind The 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 Mentioned in this episode: Sumantha's Online Summit 2027 is now live! Grab your free ticket here: https://sumanthamcmahon.krtra.com/t/oXxtHVD48w9c

September 28, 202615 min

The Hidden Block On Your Growth

I explore how the word 'realistic' can limit growth and how to move past invisible fences we set for ourselves. I share personal insights and practical steps to redefine success and take actionable steps towards our goals. ____________________ 👋🏽 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 Mentoring High-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' Mastermind The 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 Mentioned in this episode: Sumantha's Online Summit 2027 is now live! Grab your free ticket here: https://sumanthamcmahon.krtra.com/t/oXxtHVD48w9c

Is this your show?

Claim this listing to keep it up to date, reach guests who want to pitch you, and manage bookings with Guestify.

Claim this listing

More Business podcasts

Business Of Weather | Weather Intelligence For Improved Decision Making

BusinessTechnology

Domain Details Page

BusinessInvesting

The Bottom Line

Alexander Spencer

BusinessInterviews guests