In this honest, big-picture episode, I dive into intrinsic vs extrinsic motivation—how each fuels us at different stages of business. I share how my early “prove-them-wrong” fire evolved into a steadier, mission-led drive to serve families with nurture first, clear expectations, and mindset work around high-stakes moments (11+, GCSEs, A levels).

You’ll hear practical prompts to find your own fuel, balance impact with income, and avoid quick-fix traps like overspending on ads before you’ve proven your offer.

We also bring it back to tutoring practice: how to talk motivation with young people, build pride in hard-won skills (hello, times tables and habits), and use short-term rewards without relying on them. If this resonates, or you’ve got a story the tutor world should hear, I’m lining up new guests. Drop your details via the form in the show notes and let’s share what’s working.

https://forms.gle/Pc3pPXvkbe4ZeUaE9

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

ChatGPT said:

In this reflective, practical episode, I share why the show’s gone “edit-light” to reduce friction and ask if that works for you—before diving into ongoing CPD for tutors. Fresh from the National Tutoring Conference, I unpack what great CPD looks like, where to find it (inside and outside our industry), and how to apply it to real tuition challenges—like changing buying habits, low social reach, and the power of webinars, email, and community to keep your pipeline healthy.

You’ll hear simple prompts to streamline your workload (what can you stop doing without losing value?), plus a nudge to plan your next learning day so you stay on the pulse rather than playing catch-up. I also share what I’m attending next and why and invite you to do the same. Bonus: if packaging your services is on your list, I’ve got a £30 workshop on 23 November designed to help you clarify offers for groups and 1-to-1s. Tune in, take notes, and tell me what CPD you’re prioritising next.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Fresh from the National Tutoring Conference at the Royal Lancaster, Richard shares the standout ideas and people that made the day special—beginning with a huge nod to event lead Sam Nichols and the superb TTA team. Highlights include Susie from PS Education on humanising our language (“families,” not “clients”) and building belonging through richer onboarding and regular check-ins—even online, where a 30–120 second end-of-session parent touchpoint can transform trust. Beata Inskip opened Richard’s mind to scalable GCSE groups online, using Zoom breakout rooms for exam-board/ability differentiation without spinning up endless classes. Amin (A Team Education) offered a grounded look at the fast-growing home-education landscape and what quality, school-like provision can look like when built around a family’s needs.

President John Nichols closed Richard’s loop with a call to values-led leadership and a timely return to foundations: Bloom’s lower rung (remembering) as the base for real understanding—think times tables before fancy gimmicks—then build up to application and analysis. Richard and Vicky’s own ABC framework—Attraction, Belonging, Connection—pulled the day together: tried-and-tested pedagogy plus intentional community. Expect practical takeaways you can use this week: add micro-feedback moments, trial breakout-room differentiation, explore home-ed opportunities, and double-down on fundamentals that work.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this practical, real-talk episode of Grow Your Tutoring Business, Richard unpacks how to find clients without feeling spammy or overwhelmed. He reframes the journey as three stages—Know-Like-Trust → personal touch (discovery calls) → onboarding—and argues that onboarding is the middle of the business, not the start or end. You’ll hear why visibility matters beyond social media, with examples like community boards and soft local partnerships, and how the most effective tactics right now are the human ones: showing up as you, inviting real conversations, and building trust through consistent touch points.

Richard also shares a simple metric to aim for—around 20 meaningful touch points a month—as a realistic “sweet spot” for momentum without burnout. He explains how to use “hand-raise” calls to action (comments, messages, opt-ins) instead of jumping straight to “Buy now,” and how those signals earn you the right to send info and make an offer. Expect clear, usable guidance on closing conversations, nurturing before the sale, and protecting your headspace with financial security—so you can stay consistent long enough for the compounding effect to kick in.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Feeling flat or “off your game” with your tutoring business? In this episode of Grow Your Tutoring Business, I open up about losing my mojo after the big push for TutorFest and how that dip crept into my motivation, marketing, and mindset. I share a practical, compassionate reset: identify the trigger, capture the mental load through journaling, and use solution-focused thinking to turn worries into simple next actions. We talk rest without guilt, routines that actually fit real life, and why community time (family, friends, fellow tutors) can be the quickest route back to energy and clarity.

You’ll hear exactly how I’m rebuilding momentum—batching content, scheduling posts, and setting up boring-but-beautiful systems that keep the flywheel turning even on low-energy days. If you’ve felt the same, this episode will help you spot your own pattern, pick one gentle lever to pull, and get back to showing up for your students, your business, and yourself. If it resonates, hit subscribe, share this with a tutor friend, and drop a comment: What’s your go-to move when the mojo slips?

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this candid, energising episode of Grow Your Tutoring Business, I share how I’m getting my mojo back by tackling a topic many tutors avoid: sales. We unpack the difference between the sales conversation and the close, and why the “salesy” feeling usually shows up at the very end—not at the start. I break down stalls vs objections (overwhelm vs price, add-ons, and negotiation) and explain why pushback happens at every price point, whether you charge £15 or £60+ per hour.

You’ll leave with three practical moves you can implement today: make pricing front and centre (or give a clear “from” range if you’re bespoke) to pre-filter enquiries; turn your most common objections into FAQs and content across your website and socials to answer them upfront; and use confident closing questions that smoothly move parents to a decision—think “Which evening works best?” and “Here’s how to get started.” If you don’t have a website, a pinned PDF/proposal works too. Simple tweaks, fewer awkward chats, and more right-fit clients.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Grow Your Tutoring Business, I’m digging into what it really takes to keep showing up when your energy is low and motivation is slipping. We’ll talk about perseverance, determination, and the small but powerful habits that help you keep moving forward when you hit a hurdle. Whether it’s a dip in momentum, admin overload, or that nagging feeling that nothing is working, this conversation is about finding ways to reset, re-energise, and build consistency without burning out.

I’ll share insights from a recent Q&A session in the Tutors Who Thrive community, as well as my own experiences of being in a “funk” and what I do to pull myself out of it. From the importance of creating habits and triggers, to showing up even when it isn’t perfect, this episode will help you think about how to stay visible, stay consistent, and keep your business growing, even when motivation feels far away.

I'm here to help

https://www.tutorswhothrive.com/together-membership

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Grow Your Tutoring Business, I’m diving into a topic that every tutor and business owner needs to face head-on: running on empty. The summer months are some of my busiest, especially with 11+ preparation, and while it’s exciting to see so many children working hard, it also means something has to give — in my case, that’s been the podcast. But today I want to pause and explore an idea that came from a powerful message I read earlier this year: is it ever okay to pour from an empty cup?

We’ll look at what exhaustion really means for tutors and business owners, the difference between teaching in schools and running your own business, and how we can build better boundaries for ourselves. I’ll share my own reflections, practical questions to sense-check your workload, and even a little challenge: are you being a good boss to yourself, or a rubbish one? If you’ve ever felt tired, stretched, or wondered how to balance growth with wellbeing, this episode will give you plenty to think about.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Grow Your Tutoring Business, I pull back the curtain on what it’s really like to run not one, not two—but three interconnected businesses. From the tuition company to the growing Tutors Who Thrive membership, and now events like TutorFest, it’s all getting exciting… but also a bit complicated! I share how I'm currently navigating multiple launches, prepping for September tuition intakes, and managing long-term goals without burning out.

At the heart of it all? Simplification. I reflect on what’s working (like recording this podcast straight into my phone!), where I’m saving time and energy, and how simplifying certain processes is giving me more space to show up where it really counts. If your business is starting to feel a bit tangled, this episode is your gentle reminder to step back, strip it back, and find the clarity within the chaos.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Grow Your Tutoring Business, I get a bit raw and real about something that knocked me sideways recently—a run-in with online negativity that triggered some old feelings around teaching, identity, and how we show up in business. What started as an annoying Facebook comment turned into a much bigger reflection on the kind of messaging out there for teachers right now, especially those being promised magic-wand solutions to leave the classroom. I share how I let it get to me, what it revealed about my own journey, and why not everyone is ready to receive help—because healing takes time.

But this episode isn’t just a vent. I also talk about what lifted me back up again: a great real-world connection in a board game café, the joy of serving others through meaningful 1:1 conversations, and how important it is to create safe, judgement-free spaces for people who are navigating change. Whether you’re still processing your exit from the classroom or figuring out your next steps, this episode is a reminder that growth is rarely linear—but there are moments of light, connection, and progress when we stay open to them.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Grow Your Tutoring Business, I’m diving into a question that’s been cropping up in conversations a lot lately, what does success actually look like? It’s a word that gets thrown around all the time, but the truth is, success is deeply personal and changes depending on where you are in life. I reflect on what it means to be successful as a tutor, business owner, parent, and just as a human trying to do good work and live a good life. This episode is part thought-starter, part reality check, and packed with honesty about freedom, time, money, and motivation.

Whether you’re just starting out or years into your tutoring journey, I’m inviting you to pause and think about your version of success—both in business and personally. I also share how my own definition has changed over the years, the role of therapy in helping me reframe things, and why sometimes the biggest shifts come from the smallest mindset changes. If you're ready for a grounded, no-fluff chat about what matters most, this one’s for you.

www.tutorswhothrove.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this deeply moving and thought-provoking episode, I sit down once again with Tom Delahunt – the mind behind The Wandering Lamb, The Butterfly Farmer, and the evolving identity of The Hobo Poet. We pick up where our last conversation left off and explore how Tom’s storytelling, immersive workshops, and growing partnerships are creating transformational experiences for children, educators, and communities. From Enchanted Gardens to butterfly sanctuaries in schools and care homes, Tom shares how his poetic vision and personal journey are impacting lives and reshaping educational spaces.

We also dive into the deeper purpose behind the work – the red threads of meaning that tie children to their creative selves, the value of being truly seen, and the importance of message over product. With upcoming projects, including a national tour and his nearly completed PhD, Tom’s story is one of passion, vulnerability, and radical imagination. Whether you're a tutor, teacher, creative, or parent, there’s something powerful here for anyone who believes in the healing and transformative power of storytelling. All the links, including his Kickstarter and Substack, are in the description – come and be part of the journey.

You can support Tom here https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/tcl/the-butterfly-farmer-the-next-adventure

and here https://substack.com/@thomasdelahunt

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this unplugged, no-edit episode of Grow Your Tutoring Business, I'm recording straight from my phone, back to basics, just like in the early days of Tutors Who Thrive. Join me for a personal reflection on how this summer feels different: less stressful, more intentional, and a sign of how far the business has come. I share candid thoughts on the seasonal shifts in tutoring, the power of experience, and how each year builds towards a better one—both financially and personally.

You'll hear insights into how I’m structuring my summer, why boundaries are key, and how messaging to parents makes all the difference. Whether you're in your first year or your fifth, this episode is full of honest reflections, practical takeaways, and a reminder that progress takes time, but it's worth it. Plug in for a relaxed but purposeful listen.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome back to another episode of Grow Your Tutoring Business! In today’s powerful and inspiring interview, Rich chats with Susan Duffy, a newly full-time tutor who has just made the bold leap from classroom to self-employment – all the way from Hong Kong. After 11 years teaching in the same school, Susan walked out last Friday and into her new life as a business owner. She shares the real story behind her decision to leave, how long it took to make it, and what it feels like to finally take the leap she’s been thinking about for years.

From working in kindergartens where toddlers learn three languages, to being approached by parents in high-rise housing estates, Susan gives us a fascinating insight into the Hong Kong tuition market. She reflects on mindset shifts, financial planning, choosing the right clients, and how her confidence has grown over time. We also chat about the challenges of starting a business from scratch — from admin and taxes to putting yourself out there on social media. Whether you're considering leaving the classroom, already tutoring part-time, or just love hearing honest stories about starting out, this episode is a must-listen.

🎧 Hit play to hear Susan’s down-to-earth wisdom, laugh-out-loud anecdotes, and what happened when a Simon Sinek podcast helped her quit her job on a rooftop lunch break!

👇 Drop your thoughts or questions in the comments — and don’t forget to subscribe for more stories like this.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What. A. Day. TutorFest 2025 was everything we hoped for – and more! In this special celebration episode, Rich and Vicki sit down (just about recovered!) to reflect on the highs, laughs, and unexpected magic of the day. From emotional arrivals and perfectly timed food to surprise tutor recruitment at the pub and old school friends reuniting after 30 years, this episode captures the real heart of what made TutorFest unforgettable: the people. We also share behind-the-scenes moments, hilarious hiccups, and the very real pride we feel at what this community achieved together.

But we’re not stopping there! We’re thrilled to announce that TutorFest 2026 is heading to BLACKPOOL TOWER! Yep, the iconic venue – ballroom and all – is going to be the backdrop for next year’s event, and we’re already buzzing with ideas. Early bird tickets are now live, and trust us… if you thought London was good, just wait till you see what we’re planning next. 🎉🗓️

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Grow Your Tutoring Business, we're focusing on how to set yourself up for a strong September by taking action now. Whether you're aiming to increase enrolments, improve your onboarding systems, or simply get ahead with your content planning, this episode is packed with practical tips to help you build momentum over the summer. I reflect on lessons from past years, explain why what you do now pays off in 2–3 months, and share how I’m approaching lead generation and client engagement in a more intentional way.

You'll also hear why having simple, friction-free next steps for potential clients—like PDFs or clear calls to action—can make all the difference when parents are weighing up options. From managing communication to crafting effective content, this is a short but focused episode designed to help you avoid a slow start and build steady, sustainable growth in your tutoring business.

Lesson Space

LessonSpace transforms online teaching by combining video conferencing with a collaborative whiteboard to host online lessons as interactive as if they were in person. 

The platform is designed by tutors, for tutors, and includes purpose-built tools for subjects like STEM and languages, to make lessons dynamic and engaging. It's easy to use too - teachers and students can start with just one click, and everything they need is at their fingertips, including a library of teaching resources, interactive tools and much more!

Get a free two-week trial by signing up at thelessonspace.com

Use the code TUTORFEST25 and receive 50% off for the first three months.

AE Education

For over 25 years, AE Publications has focused on excellence in education. We offer 'how-to' workbooks, testbooks, and testpacks for children in Years 3 to 7, preparing them for 11+ and SATs exams. With more than 125 titles, we are a one-stop shop for tutors, teachers, and parents requiring 11+ and Key Stage 2 materials.

Our range, written by experienced UK-qualified teachers, covering maths, English, verbal reasoning, and non-verbal reasoning. All books have been classroom tested for quality assurance.

Tutors and teachers can set up an account on the AE Publications website to receive discounts of up to 35%. Learn more about our methodology and range here.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, I take a different tack and focus on the real-world challenges and opportunities that arise inside a tutoring business—particularly how we build strong relationships with parents and pupils. From onboarding new clients to setting clear payment terms and cancellation policies, I share practical advice for tutors looking to grow sustainably while protecting their time and values. This is all about laying solid foundations that reduce friction later and create long-term trust.

I also dive into how we communicate effectively with current clients, including how to keep parents informed, involved, and confident in the service you’re delivering. Whether you’re working solo or managing a team of tutors, you’ll find honest insights here about what works, what I’ve learned the hard way, and what I’m changing in my own business. It’s a grounded, behind-the-scenes episode that’ll help you refine your systems and strengthen your relationships.

TutorFest2025

https://www.tutorswhothrive.com/offers/Zy4xynyv/checkout

LessonSpace

Get a free two-week trial by signing up at thelessonspace.com

Use the code TUTORFEST25 and receive 50% off for the first three months.

AE Publications

Our range, written by experienced UK-qualified teachers, covering maths, English, verbal reasoning, and non-verbal reasoning. All books have been classroom tested for quality assurance.

Tutors and teachers can set up an account on the AE Publications website to receive discounts of up to 35%. Learn more about our methodology and range here.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, I share my reflections on attending Atomicon, one of the UK’s leading marketing and business events. It was packed with practical insights and inspiration—from powerful talks by Carrie Green, Rory Sutherland, and Geoff Ramm, to standout strategies on improving your business mindset and communication. If you've never been to a business event like this, I explain why it’s worth the travel, the time, and the investment.

I also dive into big lessons around email marketing, audience nurturing, and why building an email list is more reliable than relying on social media algorithms. You’ll hear how problem-led messaging and “warming up” your audience can transform your approach to sales, and why connecting with ambitious, like-minded people makes all the difference when growing a tutoring business. This episode is part strategy, part reflection—and 100% designed to help you move forward with clarity and confidence.

TutorFest 2025 - Buy your ticket here

https://www.tutorswhothrive.com/offers/Zy4xynyv/checkout

LessonSpace

Want to give it a try? Sign up for a two-week free trial and use code TUTORFEST25 for 50% off your first 3 months — that’s TUTORFEST25, all caps, no spaces.

Edu Accounts - Allowable expenses for Tutors

Link: https://shop.beacons.ai/eduaccounts/ad072cc7-8e50-4489-b515-d44b8a9b34dd

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Are mind gremlins holding you back from growing your tutoring business? In this powerful episode of Grow Your Tutoring Business, we tackle imposter syndrome head-on. Discover how self-doubt shows up in your pricing, visibility, and daily actions—and learn the mindset shifts and habits that can help you break free. Whether you struggle with showing your face online or undercharging for your services, this episode is packed with relatable insights and actionable strategies to help you reclaim your confidence.

Richard Cowell shares personal stories and practical tools to help tutors overcome fear, build trust in themselves, and stay focused on their purpose. From rewiring your inner dialogue to developing smart business habits, this is the real talk you need to move past perfectionism and start showing up as the expert you truly are.

🎙️ Ready to shift your mindset and take action? This episode is your reminder that growth starts with one brave step.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Are you a tutor looking to create more freedom in your schedule while still growing your income? In this episode of "Grow Your Tutoring Business," Richard Cowell dives deep into the myths and realities of passive income for educators. Discover how semi-passive and recurring income models—like pre-recorded lessons, downloadable resources, and online courses—can become powerful tools for scaling your tutoring business without trading more time for money.

Whether you're just starting out or already running a successful tutoring brand, this episode offers practical advice on how to package your expertise into digital products, leverage your existing audience, and build sustainable revenue streams. Richard shares personal examples, real-life tools, and strategies you can start using today to work smarter, not harder. If you're ready to explore new income streams and build long-term value in your tutoring business, this one’s a must-watch! 💡🎧

https://www.tutorswhothrive.com/pre-recorded-lessons-course

https://www.tutorswhothrive.com/newsletter

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.