Beyond the Big Agencies

In this episode, we break down one of the most overlooked opportunities in school contracting: the January Contract — the mid-year surge in staffing and service needs across public and private schools.Elise shares why this window exists, what school leaders are experiencing behind the scenes, and how contractors can position themselves to step in with confidence. From staffing shortages and budget resets to shifts in caseloads and compensatory services, January is a uniquely high-need, low-competition period.You’ll learn how to communicate proactively, what pain points to address in outreach, and how to offer solutions schools actually want this time of year. Elise also explains why these short-term January roles often become long-term, relationship-building opportunities.Whether you’re new to contracting or looking to expand in 2025–2026, this episode will help you take advantage of a powerful — and often untapped — revenue window.Key TakeawaysJanuary is one of the best times of year to secure school contracts.Schools re-evaluate staffing mid-year and often discover unexpected service gaps.Flexibility in service models increases during this period.Proactive outreach positions you ahead of other contractors.Understanding school pain points (service gaps, missed minutes, scheduling changes) boosts your sales conversations.Private schools also experience a January reset and seek additional support.Short-term January placements frequently turn into multi-year relationships.Competition is lower because most providers assume hiring happens only in August.Offering solutions → not sales pitches → builds trust.Approaching schools with a helpful mindset sets you apartResources: The Therapist Support Network Resources: https://www.thetherapistsupportnetwork.com/Financial Disclosure:"Beyond the Big Agencies" is brought to you by The Therapist Support Network. Some topics discussed may reference products, services, or resources offered by The Therapist Support Network. This episode may contain affiliate links. I may earn a small commission if you purchase through them, at no extra cost to youLegal Disclaimer:The information provided in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal, financial, or professional advice. Listeners should consult with qualified professionals regarding their specific circumstances before making any business decisions.

In this episode, Elise Mitchell interviews Ellie Richter, a bilingual speech therapist who has transitioned into the virtual space of speech therapy. They discuss the evolution of teletherapy, the challenges and rewards of direct contracting, and the mindset shifts necessary for business ownership. Ellie shares her experiences with client relationships, pricing strategies, and the importance of flexibility in service delivery. The conversation highlights the significance of virtual therapy as a valuable tool in the field and encourages professionals to embrace their worth and advocate for themselves in their careers.TakeawaysEllie Richter is a bilingual speech therapist with 16 years of experience.She transitioned to virtual speech therapy to educate others in the field.Direct contracting allows therapists to set their own rates and work with schools directly.Mindset shifts are crucial when moving from employee to business owner.Setting a sustainable rate is essential for financial stability.It's important to be intentional about client relationships and contracts.Virtual therapy can be a valuable tool for both therapists and clients.Flexibility in service delivery can enhance the effectiveness of therapy.Past experiences shape current business decisions and strategies.Advocating for oneself is key to success in the therapy profession.Resources:The Therapist Support Network School Contracting Checklist: https://thetsn.myflodesk.com/checklistThe Essential Teletherapist: https://www.instagram.com/theessentialteletherapist/ Financial Disclosure:"Beyond the Big Agencies" is brought to you by The Therapist Support Network. Some topics discussed may reference products, services, or resources offered by The Therapist Support Network. This episode may contain affiliate links. I may earn a small commission if you purchase through them, at no extra cost to youLegal Disclaimer:The information provided in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal, financial, or professional advice. Listeners should consult with qualified professionals regarding their specific circumstances before making any business decisions.

In this engaging podcast episode, Elise Mitchell interviews Hallie Sherman, a speech-language pathologist (SLP) who shares her journey and insights into working with older students in the field of speech therapy. Hallie discusses the benefits of working with this age group, including fewer initial evaluations and the ability to create meaningful connections. They explore the challenges and strategies for engaging older students, the importance of transitioning from employee to business owner, and the resources available for SLPs looking to expand their skills. Hallie's upcoming book, 'The Secondary SLP Roadmap,' is also highlighted as a valuable resource for those in the field.Takeaways: Hallie Sherman is the SLP behind Speech Time Fun, sharing practical ideas for SLPs.Working with older students can be rewarding and impactful.There are fewer initial evaluations with older students.Engaging older students requires understanding their interests and goals.Connection is more important than data collection in therapy.Transitioning from employee to business owner requires confidence and action.Using others' success as inspiration can motivate your own journey.Creating a safe environment is crucial for student engagement.Incorporating real-life goals into therapy makes it more relevant for students.Resources like Hallie's blog and upcoming book can help SLPs in their practice.Hallie's Resources: speechtimefun.com slpelevate.com instagram.com/speechtimefun speechtimefun.com/preorderThe Therapist Support Network Resourceshttps://www.instagram.com/thetherapistsupportnetwork/www.thetherapistsupportnetwork.comFinancial Disclosure:"Beyond the Big Agencies" is brought to you by The Therapist Support Network. Some topics discussed may reference products, services, or resources offered by The Therapist Support Network. This episode may contain affiliate links. I may earn a small commission if you purchase through them, at no extra cost to youLegal Disclaimer:The information provided in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal, financial, or professional advice. Listeners should consult with qualified professionals regarding their specific circumstances before making any business decisions.

In this episode of Beyond the Big Agencies, Elise Mitchell speaks with Hylan and Nikki, co-founders of the Mentorship Collective, about the critical role of mentorship in the field of speech pathology. They discuss how structured mentorship can significantly improve clinician retention, combat burnout, and enhance job satisfaction. The conversation highlights the importance of adapting mentorship strategies to meet the needs of new generations of clinicians, particularly Gen Z, who thrive on peer support and structured guidance. The Mentorship Collective offers tailored programs to help businesses implement effective mentorship frameworks, ultimately leading to better outcomes for both clinicians and clients.Mentorship significantly increases retention rates for clinicians.Strong mentorship combats burnout and enhances job satisfaction.A structured mentorship process is essential for effective support.Investing in mentorship is a long-term business strategy.Gen Z values peer support and mentorship in the workplace.Mentorship should be an active, ongoing process, not passive.Quality mentorship leads to better outcomes for clients and clinicians.Building a positive company culture is crucial for retention.Virtual mentorship can be just as effective as in-person support.Tailored mentorship programs can help businesses grow and thrive.Financial Disclosure:"Beyond the Big Agencies" is brought to you by The Therapist Support Network. Some topics discussed may reference products, services, or resources offered by The Therapist Support Network. This episode may contain affiliate links. I may earn a small commission if you purchase through them, at no extra cost to youLegal Disclaimer:The information provided in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal, financial, or professional advice. Listeners should consult with qualified professionals regarding their specific circumstances before making any business decisions.Mentorship Collective: https://www.mentorshipcollective.com/Mentorship Collective Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mentorshipcollective/The Therapist Support Network FREE Checklist: https://thetsn.myflodesk.com/checklist

In this inspiring episode, Elise sits down with Brittany Musholt of Little Moose Speech Therapy to talk about her leap from agency work to independent contracting—and how that decision snowballed into building multiple income streams.Brittany shares how pay transparency motivated her to explore independent contracts, the mindset shifts she had to make when becoming a business owner, and how she balances virtual contracts, private practice, consulting, authorship, and social media.Together, Elise and Brittany dive into:Why mindset is the biggest barrier to getting started in contractingHow districts benefit from working directly with therapist-owned businessesThe challenges Brittany didn’t see coming (like taxes and isolation) and how she overcame themThe importance of building a supportive village of fellow contractorsHer journey as a children’s book author and how creative projects fuel her missionWays SLPs, OTs, and PTs can expand into additional revenue streams beyond direct therapyIf you’ve been on the fence about independent contracting—or if you’re curious about how to expand your career beyond the therapy room—this episode will give you the encouragement and practical advice you need to take the next step.Resources & Links MentionedFollow Brittany on Instagram: @littlemoosespeechtherapyBrittany's Book: https://www.littlemoosespeechtherapyllc.com/store/p/a-tail-of-empathy-rocky-gains-a-brotherElise’s Facebook Group: SLP/OT/PT Direct School ContractorsGetting Started Checklist: www.thetherapistsupportnetwork.com

In this episode, Elise Mitchell discusses the critical role of branding for contractors, especially those just starting out. She emphasizes that branding is not just about aesthetics but about establishing trust and legitimacy in the eyes of potential clients, particularly schools. Elise provides actionable steps for beginners to enhance their branding, including creating a professional email, designing a simple logo, and developing a website. She highlights that effective branding can significantly impact a contractor's ability to secure contracts and maintain long-term relationships with clients.TakeawaysBranding is essential for establishing trust with clients.A professional email address enhances credibility.Websites serve as modern business cards.Consistency in branding reinforces legitimacy.Simple logos can significantly impact professional perception.Branding helps contractors justify their rates.Schools prefer working with established businesses.Investing in branding materials is a worthwhile expense.Branding supports the value you bring to clients.Every interaction should reflect your business professionalism.Disclosures: "Beyond the Big Agencies" is brought to you by The Therapist Support Network. Some topics discussed may reference products, services, or resources offered by The Therapist Support Network. This episode may contain affiliate links. I may earn a small commission if you purchase through them, at no extra cost to youLegal Disclaimer:The information provided in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal, financial, or professional advice. Listeners should consult with qualified professionals regarding their specific circumstances before making any business decisions.Products/Companies Mentioned: Cued Creative School Contractor Website Template: https://www.cuedcreative.com/school-contract-websitesEmily B Speech Business Swag, Save 10% with Code 'Elise10': https://www.emilybspeech.com/discount/ELISE10?redirect=/collections/customize-with-your-logoTherapist Support Network School Contractor Packet: https://www.thetherapistsupportnetwork.com/school-contractor-packet

In this episode, Elise Mitchell sits down with Jesse Kleinman, founder of Vibrant Digital Solutions, to explore the evolving role of social media for healthcare and school contractors. They dive into practical strategies for building visibility, engaging your audience, and growing your business online. Jesse shares tips on content creation, batching, using templates, and showing your personality to connect with potential clients.Key Takeaways:Social media is a powerful tool for showcasing your expertise and increasing visibility.Connecting personally with your audience builds trust and opens doors to new opportunities.Clear messaging ensures your audience understands who you are and what you offer.Consistency in posting strengthens brand recognition and credibility.Engaging with followers is essential for networking and relationship-building.Batching content and using templates can make social media management more manageable.Focus on progress over perfection — getting started is more important than being flawless.Inspiration from others can spark fresh content ideas.Investing in marketing support can reduce overwhelm and accelerate growth.Resources Mentioned:Vibrant Digital Solutions: https://www.vibrantdigitalsolutions.co/contactVibrant Digital Solutions Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vibrant.digitalsolutions/The School Contractor Packet: https://www.thetherapistsupportnetwork.com/training-and-packet Financial Disclosure:"Beyond the Big Agencies" is brought to you by The Therapist Support Network. Some topics discussed may reference products, services, or resources offered by The Therapist Support Network. This episode may contain affiliate links. I may earn a small commission if you purchase through them, at no extra cost to youLegal Disclaimer:The information provided in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal, financial, or professional advice. Listeners should consult with qualified professionals regarding their specific circumstances before making any business decisions.

In this episode of Beyond the Big Agencies, Elise Mitchell discusses the critical transition from planning to execution in school-based contracting, focusing on the differences between fall and spring contracts. She emphasizes the importance of adjusting rates, managing timelines, and understanding the unique sales strategies required for fall contracts. Additionally, she highlights the significance of compensatory services and the need for clear communication and boundaries during the contracting process. Elise provides actionable insights for contractors to navigate this busy season successfully and build sustainable businesses.TAKEAWAYS:Your rate can be higher for fall contracts.Set realistic timelines for onboarding to manage expectations.Fall contracts focus more on the services you provide than relationships.Stick to your boundaries in the contract terms to protect your business.Always ask about compensatory time or makeup time before signing contracts.Expect districts to try to rush the contract process; hold your ground.Be transparent about your capacity when onboarding.Understand that fall contracts may come with a different sales approach.This is a crucial time for contractors as schools realize their needs.Utilize available resources to support your contracting journey.Disclaimers for end: Financial Disclosure:"Beyond the Big Agencies" is brought to you by The Therapist Support Network. Some topics discussed may reference products, services, or resources offered by The Therapist Support Network. Legal Disclaimer:The information provided in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal, financial, or professional advice. Listeners should consult with qualified professionals regarding their specific circumstances before making any business decisions.FREE Resources:Checklist: https://thetsn.myflodesk.com/checklistStaffing Checklist: https://thetsn.myflodesk.com/staffing

In this episode, Elise Mitchell discusses the chaotic nature of August for contractors in the education sector. She explains the predictable patterns of the school sales cycle and offers strategies for contractors to prepare for the influx of requests that typically occurs as schools gear up for the new academic year. By understanding the rhythm of school operations and being proactive, contractors can navigate the August surge more effectively and avoid last-minute scrambles.TakeawaysAugust is a chaotic time for contractors in education.The school sales cycle includes identify, discover, pitch, contract, and close.Proactive planning is essential to manage the August rush.Contractors should prepare their sales scripts and rate sheets in advance.It's important to know what opportunities to say yes to and what to decline.Organizing onboarding materials ahead of time can ease the process.Light outreach to schools before August can help mitigate chaos.Understanding school rhythms can lead to more control in the contracting process.August doesn't have to be a crisis if you prepare properly.Your work matters, and you can build a sustainable school-based business.Financial Disclosure:"Beyond the Big Agencies" is brought to you by The Therapist Support Network. Some topics discussed may reference products, services, or resources offered by The Therapist Support Network. Legal Disclaimer:The information provided in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal, financial, or professional advice. Listeners should consult with qualified professionals regarding their specific circumstances before making any business decisions.Resources Referenced: School Contractor Checklist: https://thetsn.myflodesk.com/checklistStaffing Checklist: https://thetsn.myflodesk.com/staffingThe Therapist Support Network Resources: www.thetherapistsupportnetwork.com

In this podcast episode, Elise Mitchell interviews Kim, a speech-language pathologist and owner of Speech Dreamers, about the importance of self-care for SLPs. They discuss the challenges of maintaining work-life balance, the birth of Kim's self-care company, and the significance of rituals and routines in promoting mental health. Kim shares her personal journey, mindset shifts, and the challenges she faced while building her business. The conversation emphasizes the need for boundaries and self-care practices in the demanding field of speech therapy.TakeawaysSelf-care is essential for SLPs to avoid burnout.Speech Dreamers was created to support SLPs' self-care needs.Work-life balance is crucial for mental health.Rituals and routines can help maintain self-care.Mindset shifts are necessary for business success.Outsourcing tasks can alleviate stress for business owners.Quality over quantity is vital in product development.Setting boundaries is key to preventing resentment.Self-care items can enhance the therapeutic experience.Community support is important for SLPs. Resources Mentioned: https://speechdreamers.com/Discount Code: EliseTSNInstagram: @speechdreamers

In this episode of Beyond the Big Agencies, I sit down with Bradi O'Rourke, SLP and owner of Braxy Speech and a successful school contract business based in Illinois. Bradi shares her journey from being a speech-language pathologist to running a thriving therapy company that contracts directly with schools.Whether you're new to school contracting or looking to grow your existing business, Bradi offers relatable, real-world insight into what it takes to succeed—and what to avoid. This conversation is packed with practical tips and encouragement for providers ready to build something sustainable and independent.What You’ll Learn:*Why Bradi got started with school contracts in Illinois*The mindset shifts that helped her move from clinician to CEO*Mistakes she avoided that many new business owners make*Her number one tips when navigating this journey*Candid conversation about school contracting hurdles!Guest:Bradi O'Rourke is a licensed SLP and the founder of Braxy Speech. She leads a growing school contract business focused on providing quality, ethical, and reliable therapy services to districts across Illinois. In addition, Bradi has owned a private practice in Illinois and has recently opened a clinic in Tennessee where she now resides!Links and Resources:Connect with Braxy Speech: https://www.braxyspeechtherapy.com/Follow Braxy on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/braxy_speech_therapy/Learn more about the School Contracting Packet mentioned: www.thetherapistsupportnetwork.comDownload your free School Contracting Checklist: https://thetsn.myflodesk.com/checklist

Takeaways: The podcast emphasizes the importance of securing a school contract prior to hiring providers to ensure clarity in expectations and roles. Intentional recruitment is highlighted as a critical factor for maintaining provider retention and ensuring a good fit for the school. Understanding the hourly rate for hiring allows for better financial planning and prevents unnecessary recruitment costs. A hybrid approach that combines elements of both hiring first and securing contracts is recommended for optimal success in staffing. Effective communication with both schools and providers is essential for establishing strong relationships and facilitating smooth operations in the staffing process. The podcast underscores that provider run businesses must prioritize transparency and clear boundaries to differentiate themselves from larger staffing agencies. Links referenced in this episode:www.thetherapistsupportnetwork.comhttps://www.thetherapistsupportnetwork.com/school-staffingCompanies mentioned in this episode: Therapist Support Network Financial Disclosure:"Beyond the Big Agencies" is brought to you by The Therapist Support Network. Some topics discussed may reference products, services, or resources offered by The Therapist Support Network. Legal Disclaimer:The information provided in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal, financial, or professional advice. Listeners should consult with qualified professionals regarding their specific circumstances before making any business decisions.

The principal theme of this podcast episode elucidates the paramount significance of defining one's ideal school contract as a foundational step in establishing a successful contracting career. I, Elise Mitchell, assert that clarity in identifying the characteristics of an optimal school contract not only empowers service providers but also mitigates the risks of burnout and dissatisfaction commonly associated with ill-suited engagements. Throughout the discourse, we systematically explore seven critical filters that will assist listeners in articulating their aspirations and expectations when seeking school contracts. By emphasizing the necessity of being selective and discerning, I aim to equip professionals with the tools to identify contracts that align with their values and operational preferences. Ultimately, this episode serves as an invitation to reflect on personal goals and to engage in a purposeful evaluation of prospective school partnerships.Links referenced in this episode:thetherapistsupportnetwork.comCompanies mentioned in this episode: Therapist Support Network Vibrant Digital Solutions

Checklists referenced:  Contractor Checklist: https://thetsn.myflodesk.com/checklistStaffing Checklist: https://thetsn.myflodesk.com/staffingThe primary focus of this episode is the debunking of five prevalent myths surrounding school contracting for service providers such as Speech-Language Pathologists (SLPs), Occupational Therapists (OTs), and Physical Therapists (PTs). We assert that one need not possess a fully established private practice to engage in school contracting, challenging the misconception that such a prerequisite exists. Throughout our discourse, we delineate how these misconceptions inhibit professionals from seizing opportunities, thereby stifling their potential career growth. We aim to provide clarity and encourage listeners to dispel these fallacies, empowering them to navigate the contracting landscape with confidence and ease. Ultimately, we emphasize that a commitment to understanding these intricacies is paramount for those aspiring to thrive in this domain.The podcast episode offers a comprehensive exploration of prevalent myths surrounding school contracting for therapists, specifically targeting Speech-Language Pathologists (SLPs), Occupational Therapists (OTs), and Physical Therapists (PTs). Hosted by Elise Mitchell, a seasoned SLP and school contracting coach, the discussion aims to elucidate the misconceptions that may hinder professionals from pursuing independent contracting opportunities within educational settings. The first myth addressed is the belief that one must have an established private practice to successfully contract with schools. Elise counters this notion by sharing her own journey and the experiences of numerous colleagues, demonstrating that many therapists have entered into contracts with schools without maintaining a private practice, thus highlighting the accessibility of contracting as a viable career option. In addition to debunking the first myth, the episode tackles the misconception that educational institutions only seek partnerships with large staffing agencies. Elise passionately argues that many school districts are increasingly inclined to collaborate with smaller providers who can deliver personalized and effective services. This shift in the contracting paradigm signifies a growing recognition of the value that independent contractors bring to the educational landscape. Furthermore, the episode delves into the mental hurdles that prospective contractors may face, suggesting that the perceived difficulty of engaging with schools often stems from a lack of clarity and fear of rejection rather than an insurmountable skill barrier. Elise encourages listeners to adopt a proactive approach, emphasizing the importance of persistence in outreach efforts and the cultivation of relationships within the educational community.The episode further examines additional myths, including the erroneous belief that contracting is inherently easy or that one must have every logistical detail in order before initiating contact with schools. Elise asserts that while the contracting process is manageable, it requires strategic planning and sustained effort. She advocates for a mindset that embraces continuous learning and adaptation, encouraging listeners to leverage available resources, such as checklists and coaching, to navigate the contracting landscape effectively. The episode concludes with an invitation for listeners to share their experiences and connect with a supportive community of service providers, reinforcing the message that a fulfilling career in school contracting is attainable for those who are willing to challenge existing misconceptions and take the initiative to engage with educational institutions.Takeaways: The podcast emphasizes that one does not need an established private...

This podcast episode elucidates the essential strategies that practitioners in speech-language pathology, occupational therapy, physical therapy, and related fields can employ to effectively navigate the summer months when schools are closed or operating at diminished capacity. We emphasize the importance of financial foresight, advocating for a prudent approach to budgeting that enables service providers to take time off during the summer without compromising their financial stability. Our discourse encompasses various options, from taking a complete hiatus to exploring extended school year contracts, early intervention opportunities, and PRN positions within medical settings. Additionally, we propose the innovative idea of organizing community summer groups or camps, which can serve both as a means of income generation and an avenue for community engagement. Ultimately, our dialogue reinforces the notion that maintaining financial viability is paramount to ensuring a fulfilling and sustainable career in school contracting.Takeaways: In the realm of school contracting, summer months present both challenges and opportunities for practitioners. Financial planning is crucial for contractors to navigate the absence of income during summer breaks. Exploring extended school year contracts can provide supplemental income and establish valuable district relationships. Engaging in early intervention contracts may offer additional income and client opportunities during the summer months. Financial Disclosure:"Beyond the Big Agencies" is brought to you by The Therapist Support Network. Some topics discussed may reference products, services, or resources offered by The Therapist Support Network. Legal Disclaimer:The information provided in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal, financial, or professional advice. Listeners should consult with qualified professionals regarding their specific circumstances before making any business decisions.Links referenced in this episode:thetherapistsupportnetwork.comhttps://thetsn.myflodesk.com/checklistCompanies mentioned in this episode: Therapist Support Network

In this episode, Elise Mitchell articulates the transformative potential of hiring within service provision practices. The discourse is structured around five distinct signs that indicate readiness to expand one’s practice through hiring. The initial sign addresses the psychological barriers that prevent practitioners from hiring, notably the fear of inadequacy concerning the hiring process. Mitchell asserts that this fear is a self-imposed limitation that can be surmounted through education and proactive engagement with the hiring landscape. As the conversation progresses, Mitchell delves into the implications of turning down lucrative contracts due to scheduling constraints. This phenomenon is framed as a critical signal for growth, highlighting the necessity of hiring to capitalize on available opportunities. Another essential aspect of the discussion pertains to the encroachment of administrative responsibilities into personal time, which can lead to burnout and diminished job satisfaction. She strongly advocates for hiring support to alleviate these burdens, thereby allowing practitioners to maintain a healthy work-life balance.The final segments of the episode emphasize the financial aspects of hiring, particularly the potential for generating additional revenue streams. Mitchell encourages listeners to consider hiring not just for financial reasons but also for the opportunity to make a more significant impact within their communities. This episode resonates with a message of empowerment, urging practitioners to embrace the challenges of hiring as a pathway to personal and professional growth.FREE School Staffing Checklist: https://thetsn.myflodesk.com/staffingFinancial Disclosure:"Beyond the Big Agencies" is brought to you by The Therapist Support Network. Some topics discussed may reference products, services, or resources offered by The Therapist Support Network. Legal Disclaimer:The information provided in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal, financial, or professional advice. Listeners should consult with qualified professionals regarding their specific circumstances before making any business decisions.

Takeaways: The hybrid private practice model allows service providers to combine traditional private practice with school contracts, enhancing revenue opportunities. Establishing school contracts can serve as a quick revenue builder, potentially generating significant income while building a private practice caseload. School contracts can supplement a growing caseload, providing income stability without requiring full-time commitment from the provider. The dual revenue streams from private practice and school contracts can offset seasonal fluctuations in income, ensuring consistent earnings throughout the year. For niche providers, school contracts can offer opportunities to specialize and monetize their expertise in specific areas, like AAC or bilingual services. Exploring various types of school contracts, such as virtual or FMLA coverage, can diversify revenue streams and adapt to individual business needs. Links referenced in this episode:www.thetherapistsupportnetwork.comCompanies mentioned in this episode: Therapist Support Network Transcript: 00:00:02.320 - 00:19:05.410Welcome to beyond the Big Agencies, the podcast for SLPs, OTs, PTs and related service providers who want to work with schools, but not for them.I'm Elise Mitchell, an slp, a school contracting coach, and the owner of the Therapist Support Network, here to help you take control of your career, do what you love and build a sustainable practice on your terms. Because school staffing should be left to the professionals. Let's dig in.Foreign hi guys, it is Elise and thank you so much for joining me today for another episode of beyond the Big Agencies.I am really excited for this topic and this topic is inspired by an increase in questions that I'm getting, which is what is the hybrid private practice? How is the hybrid private practice beneficial and is this a direction that I should take my business?So we're going to dive into the pros and the perks of combining your more traditional private practice model with school contracts and having multiple revenue streams. All right, so let's go ahead and first define what do I mean by the hybrid private practice when I use this expression?I mean you have a standard private practice. You can either accept insurance or not. That's not my area of strength. So that's all I'm going to say about that.I am exclusive to school contracting, so where my expertise will support on this topic is discussing how school contracts can really wiggle into your private practice, if you will, and support your private practice goals and your growth. And I'm going to discuss the perks of having this second revenue stream, what that could do for your business.Let's go ahead and just get right into it.So, so the perks of adding on school contracts to your private practice, why this is a topic that people are talking about and how this can support your business growth. So number one, the reason why I love adding on school contracts to your offerings is a quick revenue builder.This is really for those of you who want to start a private practice and as you know, it just takes a bit to build your caseload.However, with school contracts you can get one contract and have enough for a full time income, depending on your goals, depending on how large that contract is, etc. So establishing a school contract can be a significant boost to your income while you build up that private practice caseload.So let's say a full time school contract has the potential to gross. I mean most of them gross over a...

This podcast episode elucidates the intricacies of establishing virtual therapy contracts with educational institutions, a venture that necessitates both patience and strategic foresight. I, Elise Mitchell, offer a comprehensive breakdown of five pivotal tips designed to empower service providers in navigating the unique challenges associated with virtual engagements. Foremost, I emphasize the importance of understanding the often protracted timeline involved in securing new contracts, which frequently emerge only after traditional staffing options have been exhausted. Additionally, I advocate for the necessity of persistence in the realm of virtual sales, where providers may encounter heightened resistance compared to their in-person counterparts. Ultimately, this discourse aims to equip listeners with essential insights that foster resilience and success in the evolving landscape of virtual therapy provision.Takeaways: In the realm of virtual therapy, it is crucial to understand that contracts may take longer to secure, often coming in much later than anticipated. Persistence is paramount in virtual sales, as providers face more rejections compared to traditional in-person services. Knowing and valuing one's worth is essential; providers must resist the urge to undervalue their virtual therapy services. It is advisable to tailor contracts specifically for virtual services, as they require unique considerations not present in traditional contracts. Starting with a limited geographic focus is beneficial for virtual providers, allowing for manageable growth and mastery of local regulations. Links referenced in this episode:www.thetherapistsupportnetwork.comCompanies mentioned in this episode: Therapist Support Network Financial Disclosure:"Beyond the Big Agencies" is brought to you by The Therapist Support Network. Some topics discussed may reference products, services, or resources offered by The Therapist Support Network. Legal Disclaimer:The information provided in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal, financial, or professional advice. Listeners should consult with qualified professionals regarding their specific circumstances before making any business decisions.

The primary focus of this episode is to elucidate the three distinct pathways available for establishing a successful and gratifying business in school contracting. We commence by discussing the merits of intentionally maintaining a small business model, which affords practitioners the flexibility to align their work with personal priorities while avoiding burnout. Subsequently, we delve into the concept of "growing deep," whereby professionals expand their operations by hiring a limited number of providers, thus creating a stable and collaborative environment within local schools. Lastly, we explore the ambitious strategy of "growing wide," which involves scaling operations into a comprehensive agency, allowing for extensive outreach and significant revenue generation. Throughout this discourse, we emphasize that success in school contracting is defined not by the scale of one's enterprise but by the alignment of one's skills and goals with the needs of the educational institutions served.Takeaways: The podcast outlines three distinct pathways for service providers to develop successful school contracting businesses, emphasizing flexibility and personal alignment with professional goals. Staying intentionally small allows contractors to maintain a manageable workload and focus on specific interests, which can lead to fulfilling work-life balance. Growing deep involves developing a small team or private practice that serves local schools, offering the potential for passive income while maintaining professional relationships. The scaling path encourages ambitious providers to expand their businesses into larger agencies, which can significantly increase revenue and impact in the educational sector. Links referenced in this episode:www.thetherapistsupportnetwork.comCompanies mentioned in this episode: Therapist Support Network

The podcast delves into the significant advantages that provider-run businesses offer in comparison to large, investor-driven staffing agencies when it comes to providing services to schools. It articulates the inherent challenges faced by educational institutions that engage with larger agencies, which often prioritize filling positions over maintaining a stable workforce. This results in high turnover rates that disrupt the continuity of care for students. The discussion emphasizes that provider-run businesses typically foster stronger relationships with schools, demonstrating their commitment to long-term partnerships rather than short-term placements, which leads to improved outcomes for students. Moreover, the conversation highlights the tailored services and increased responsiveness that characterize smaller companies, which are not constrained by corporate structures and can provide customized solutions to meet the specific needs of schools. Ultimately, the episode advocates for a reevaluation of current staffing practices, urging schools to consider the merits of working directly with independent contractors who prioritize quality care and consistency.Takeaways: The podcast emphasizes the advantages of provider-run businesses over large staffing agencies, particularly in the context of service quality and consistency. Listeners are encouraged to recognize that personal relationships fostered with independent contractors can lead to improved educational outcomes for students. The episode discusses the hidden costs associated with large agencies, which can detract from the funds allocated directly for student services. It is noted that provider-run businesses can offer tailored services that meet the specific needs of schools, unlike the one-size-fits-all approach of larger agencies. High turnover rates within large staffing agencies can negatively impact the stability and continuity of services provided to students. The podcast advocates for schools to engage with independent contractors as a means to enhance the quality and reliability of the services offered. Links referenced in this episode:www.thetherapistsupportnetwork.comCompanies mentioned in this episode: Therapist Support Network Financial Disclosure:"Beyond the Big Agencies" is brought to you by The Therapist Support Network. Some topics discussed may reference products, services, or resources offered by The Therapist Support Network. Legal Disclaimer:The information provided in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal, financial, or professional advice. Listeners should consult with qualified professionals regarding their specific circumstances before making any business decisions.