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 him
• Create an online school using a £50k loan from his tuition business

My 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 :-)

Sumantha

About 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.

Instagram

X

LinkedIn

____________________

👋🏽 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!

My training leans on tried-and-tested methods that are completely tailored to our niche.

There's no generic business advice here!

Work with me to breathe life into YOUR definition of success:

#1 Bespoke 1:1 Mentoring

Goal-driven wrap-around support, with 1:1 strategy calls, WhatsApp support and free access to The Tutors' Mastermind.

#2 The Tutors' Mastermind

The leading membership for edupreneurs that combines tailored training (live and recorded), a community of like-minded business owners and exclusive discounts to resources in The Training Jukebox.

#3 The Group Class Course

Get lifetime access to this self-paced course designed to help you launch, grow and refine your group classes. Includes teaching ideas too.

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

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

____________________

👋🏽 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!

My training leans on tried-and-tested methods that are completely tailored to our niche.

There's no generic business advice here!

Work with me to breathe life into YOUR definition of success:

#1 Bespoke 1:1 Mentoring

Goal-driven wrap-around support, with 1:1 strategy calls, WhatsApp support and free access to The Tutors' Mastermind.

#2 The Tutors' Mastermind

The leading membership for edupreneurs that combines tailored training (live and recorded), a community of like-minded business owners and exclusive discounts to resources in The Training Jukebox.

#3 The Group Class Course

Get lifetime access to this self-paced course designed to help you launch, grow and refine your group classes. Includes teaching ideas too.

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

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=720

Enjoy :-)

Sumantha

____________________

👋🏽 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!

My training leans on tried-and-tested methods that are completely tailored to our niche.

There's no generic business advice here!

Work with me to breathe life into YOUR definition of success:

#1 Bespoke 1:1 Mentoring

Goal-driven wrap-around support, with 1:1 strategy calls, WhatsApp support and free access to The Tutors' Mastermind.

#2 The Tutors' Mastermind

The leading membership for edupreneurs that combines tailored training (live and recorded), a community of like-minded business owners and exclusive discounts to resources in The Training Jukebox.

#3 The Group Class Course

Get lifetime access to this self-paced course designed to help you launch, grow and refine your group classes. Includes teaching ideas too.

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

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

____________________

👋🏽 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!

My training leans on tried-and-tested methods that are completely tailored to our niche.

There's no generic business advice here!

Work with me to breathe life into YOUR definition of success:

#1 Bespoke 1:1 Mentoring

Goal-driven wrap-around support, with 1:1 strategy calls, WhatsApp support and free access to The Tutors' Mastermind.

#2 The Tutors' Mastermind

The leading membership for edupreneurs that combines tailored training (live and recorded), a community of like-minded business owners and exclusive discounts to resources in The Training Jukebox.

#3 The Group Class Course

Get lifetime access to this self-paced course designed to help you launch, grow and refine your group classes. Includes teaching ideas too.

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

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

____________________

👋🏽 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!

My training leans on tried-and-tested methods that are completely tailored to our niche.

There's no generic business advice here!

Work with me to breathe life into YOUR definition of success:

#1 Bespoke 1:1 Mentoring

Goal-driven wrap-around support, with 1:1 strategy calls, WhatsApp support and free access to The Tutors' Mastermind.

#2 The Tutors' Mastermind

The leading membership for edupreneurs that combines tailored training (live and recorded), a community of like-minded business owners and exclusive discounts to resources in The Training Jukebox.

#3 The Group Class Course

Get lifetime access to this self-paced course designed to help you launch, grow and refine your group classes. Includes teaching ideas too.

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

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

____________________

👋🏽 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!

My training leans on tried-and-tested methods that are completely tailored to our niche.

There's no generic business advice here!

Work with me to breathe life into YOUR definition of success:

#1 Bespoke 1:1 Mentoring

Goal-driven wrap-around support, with 1:1 strategy calls, WhatsApp support and free access to The Tutors' Mastermind.

#2 The Tutors' Mastermind

The leading membership for edupreneurs that combines tailored training (live and recorded), a community of like-minded business owners and exclusive discounts to resources in The Training Jukebox.

#3 The Group Class Course

Get lifetime access to this self-paced course designed to help you launch, grow and refine your group classes. Includes teaching ideas too.

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

Struggling with tricky client situations? This episode is for you.

Sumantha covers:

• Handling discount requests without undervaluing yourself
• When to enforce your terms and when to make exceptions
• Choosing between hourly rates or block payments
• How to sell group classes when clients want one-to-ones

Adapt advice to fit your business - small tweaks can make a big difference.

Enjoy :-)

Sumantha

____________________

👋🏽 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!

My training leans on tried-and-tested methods that are completely tailored to our niche.

There's no generic business advice here!

Work with me to breathe life into YOUR definition of success:

#1 Bespoke 1:1 Mentoring

Goal-driven wrap-around support, with 1:1 strategy calls, WhatsApp support and free access to The Tutors' Mastermind.

#2 The Tutors' Mastermind

The leading membership for edupreneurs that combines tailored training (live and recorded), a community of like-minded business owners and exclusive discounts to resources in The Training Jukebox.

#3 The Group Class Course

Get lifetime access to this self-paced course designed to help you launch, grow and refine your group classes. Includes teaching ideas too.

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

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

____________________

👋🏽 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!

My training leans on tried-and-tested methods that are completely tailored to our niche.

There's no generic business advice here!

Work with me to breathe life into YOUR definition of success:

#1 Bespoke 1:1 Mentoring

Goal-driven wrap-around support, with 1:1 strategy calls, WhatsApp support and free access to The Tutors' Mastermind.

#2 The Tutors' Mastermind

The leading membership for edupreneurs that combines tailored training (live and recorded), a community of like-minded business owners and exclusive discounts to resources in The Training Jukebox.

#3 The Group Class Course

Get lifetime access to this self-paced course designed to help you launch, grow and refine your group classes. Includes teaching ideas too.

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