The Education Business Podcast

In this episode, I share deep about giving yourself the permission to recognise when something isn't working in your education business and stop it, despite what friends and family might think. What you will learn in this episode: What stops us from giving ourselves permission to stop in the first place What types of things you may or may not realise you need to stop in your business Why we should give ourselves permission to stop. Resources: Join Education Business Club: https://www.educationbusinessclub.co.uk/join-education-business-club Apply for Education Business Mentoring: https://www.educationbusinessclub.co.uk/mentoring Join the Education Business Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/educationbusinessclub Education Business Newsletter: https://www.educationbusinessclub.co.uk/newsletter My website: https://www.educationbusinessclub.co.uk Find me on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/clairerileyentrepreneur/ https://www.facebook.com/education.business.club Find me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/clairerileyteacherentrepreneur https://www.instagram.com/educationbusinessclub/ Find me on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/claire-riley-entrepreneur The Teachers' Podcast: https://podfollow.com/the-teachers-podcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, I share why I believe personal development is essential for growing your business and the barriers we face from our time in the teaching profession.    What you will learn in this episode:  What personal development really is  How the culture in schools affects our attitudes to personal development  Why it’s important understand yourself  Resources: Join Education Business Club: https://www.educationbusinessclub.co.uk/join-education-business-club Apply for Education Business Mentoring: https://www.educationbusinessclub.co.uk/mentoring Join the Education Business Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/educationbusinessclub Education Business Newsletter: https://www.educationbusinessclub.co.uk/newsletter My website: https://www.educationbusinessclub.co.uk Find me on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/clairerileyentrepreneur/ https://www.facebook.com/education.business.club Find me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/clairerileyteacherentrepreneur https://www.instagram.com/educationbusinessclub/ Find me on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/claire-riley-entrepreneur The Teachers' Podcast: https://podfollow.com/the-teachers-podcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

From Teacher to Entrepreneur: Kerry's Journey from Classroom to Business In this episode of The Education Business Podcast, hosted by Claire Riley, co-founder of Classroom Secrets, we hear from Kerry, a former teacher who transitioned to entrepreneurship. Kerry shares her 15-year teaching experience, the challenges of balancing motherhood and work, her traumatic experiences around childbirth and IVF, and the impact of COVID-19. She discusses her initial doubts about entering the business world and her journey to becoming a Virtual Assistant and then a social media expert. Kerry also provides insights into the unique skills teachers bring to entrepreneurship, the importance of visibility and storytelling in social media, and the need for self-kindness and support. This episode is a valuable resource for teachers considering or making the transition to business ownership. 00:00 Introduction and Podcast Overview 01:16 Guest Introduction: Kerry's Journey from Teacher to Entrepreneur 02:54 The Challenges of Transitioning from Teaching to Business 04:20 Finding New Opportunities and Overcoming Doubts 05:32 The Importance of Support and Community 06:57 Balancing Personal Life and Professional Growth 13:10 Can All Teachers Become Entrepreneurs? 19:18 Tips for Teachers Transitioning to Entrepreneurship 24:16 Sharing Personal Stories to Build Connections  28:22 Viewing Business as a Game 35:17 Final Thoughts and Encouragement 37:33 Closing Remarks and Sponsor Message   All About Kerry: Kerry Quinn is a former assistant head teacher turned marketing strategist and mentor, working specifically with education businesses. She specialises in helping tutors grow their businesses by using Facebook groups strategically, so they can get visible, attract dream students, and build a business they love.  Her focus is on creating time freedom: keeping social media simple, spending less time posting, and more time doing the work that really matters - supporting students. Away from work, she’s a mum to a 5-year-old, a regular at the gym, and a firm believer that most things are better with a strong coffee in hand. Website: https://teachermarketer.co.uk/Instagram: @the_teacher_marketerLinkedIn: theteachermarketerFacebook:@the_teacher_marketerSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Power of Conversations in Growing Your Education Business In this episode of the Education Business Podcast, host Claire Riley, co-founder of Classroom Secrets, addresses education business founders and owners. She emphasises the importance of engaging in conversations with peers, industry leaders, and even competitors to gain valuable insights and foster growth. By sharing her personal journey from feeling intimidated to embracing interactions, Claire highlights the benefits of networking and knowledge exchange. Listeners are encouraged to reach out on platforms like LinkedIn to build connections that can enhance their business impact. Sponsored by Classroom Secrets, this episode aims to inspire education entrepreneurs to leverage conversations for business success. 00:00 Welcome to the Education Business Podcast 00:53 Overcoming the Fear of Conversations 01:23 The Value of Networking in Business 02:16 Practical Tips for Engaging with Others 03:21 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Navigating Education Business: From Redundancy to Resilience In this episode of the Education Business Podcast, co-founder Claire Riley of Classroom Secrets interviews Curtis, an education business veteran, about his unconventional journey into the sector. Curtis, born in The Bahamas and raised in the Cayman Islands, transitioned from an IT project management career to publishing educational materials, initially motivated by his mother’s underpaid book. They discuss the challenges of selling to schools, the significance of word-of-mouth marketing, and adapting to changes in technology and communication within the education sector. Curtis shares insights on developing a family-run business and the hurdles faced, such as balancing seasonality in education with business needs. The conversation also delves into the impact of teachers' locus of control on their job satisfaction and effectiveness and explores the potential of Big Maths, Curtis's product, in transforming math education through its unique approach. They conclude with a discussion on collaboration among education businesses to improve outcomes for children. 00:00 Introduction to the Education Business Podcast 01:22 Meet Curtis: A Unique Journey into Education Business 02:48 Starting and Growing an Education Business 06:19 The Evolution of Selling to Schools 21:47 The Big Maths Approach 31:31 Challenges and Insights in Education Business 39:49 Final Thoughts and Encouragement 48:58 Closing Remarks and Sponsor Message   All About Curtis: Website: BigMaths.comInstagram: @bigmaths_LinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/in/curtis-wilson-9103683Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/17BiaH4R5F/?mibextid=wwXIfrSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Growing Your Education Business with Integrity This episode of the Education Business Podcast, hosted by Claire Riley, co-founder of Classroom Secrets, explores the importance of authenticity and integrity in promoting your education business. Claire discusses the pitfalls of pretending to be someone else in promotional activities, the legal implications of fake reviews, and emphasises the need for personal development if you feel compelled to trick people into buying your product. She encourages business owners to be transparent, believe in their products, and act with integrity to build a trustworthy and sustainable brand. The podcast is sponsored by Classroom Secrets. 00:00 Welcome to the Education Business Podcast 00:53 The Pitfalls of Pretending in Business 01:46 Building Integrity and Trust in Your Brand 02:44 Embrace Authenticity for Long-Term Success 03:44 Conclusion and ResourcesSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Balancing Motherhood and Business: Insights from an Education Entrepreneur In this episode of the Education Business Podcast, host Claire Riley welcomes back Karen, founder of Mind Marvels, to discuss her journey of balancing motherhood and running an education business. Karen shares her experiences from the past nine months since having her daughter Alice, including the challenges and rewards of managing both roles. They delve into topics such as the importance of delegation, maintaining efficiency, and coping with the slower pace of completing tasks. Karen also highlights her success in reaching a six-figure turnover, the nuances of employing a team, and the importance of shifting communication strategies. Additionally, the conversation touches on the common budget constraints faced by education businesses and how to creatively navigate these challenges. This episode offers valuable insights and practical advice for education business owners, especially those juggling parenting responsibilities. 00:00 Introduction to the Education Business Podcast 01:20 Welcoming Karen Back: Business and Motherhood 02:29 Navigating Business with a Newborn  04:13 The Challenges and Triumphs of Delegation  05:57 Balancing Parenthood and Business 07:27 Insights on Team Management  13:02 The Importance of Communication 14:01 Reflecting on the Journey and Future Advice  22:38 Addressing Budget Concerns in Education  24:57 Final Thoughts and Encouragement   All About Karen: Website: https://www.mindmarvels.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mindmarvels LinkedIn (Karen Gibb): https://www.linkedin.com/in/mskarengibb/ LinkedIn (Mind Marvels): https://www.linkedin.com/company/mindmarvels Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mindmarvels  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Understanding Employee Motivation in Education Businesses In this episode of the Education Business Podcast, co-founder of Classroom Secrets, Claire Riley, discusses the importance of understanding why potential employees want to join your education business. She reflects on her early experiences as an employer and emphasises the necessity of finding candidates who genuinely bring value to the company, rather than just fulfilling their personal desires, such as working from home. Claire encourages education business owners to define the qualities they seek in employees to build a thriving and impactful company culture. 00:00 Welcome to the Education Business Podcast 00:53 Understanding Your Hiring Motivations 02:42 Reflecting on Personal Motivations 03:48 Crafting the Right Company Culture 04:38 Conclusion and ResourcesSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Overcoming Challenges in Education Business: Insights from Heather's Entrepreneurial Journey In this episode of the Education Business Podcast, host Claire Riley interviews Heather, a co-founder and seasoned education business owner.  Heather recounts her journey from an uncertain post-university period to discovering her passion for teaching in Japan, and eventually transitioning to starting her own business. She shares valuable insights on entrepreneurial action, the challenges of hiring, the importance of health, and evolving definitions of success. Listeners will gain practical tips on leveraging data, networking, and maintaining work-life balance. Heather's story demonstrates that anyone with resourcefulness and drive can thrive as an entrepreneur in the education sector. 00:00 Introduction to the Education Business Podcast 01:10 Guest Introduction: Heather's Journey into Teaching and Business 01:31 From Teaching to Entrepreneurship: Heather's Story 05:36 Lessons Learned from Growing an Education Business 06:32 The Importance of Taking Action 07:20 Redefining Success and Managing Health 10:34 Challenges and Strategies in Managing an Education Business  18:02 Future Aspirations and Personal Growth 28:43 Final Thoughts and Messages for Education Business Owners 31:41 Closing Remarks and Sponsor Message   All About Heather Website: https://www.mrsmactivity.co.ukInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/mrsmactivityLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/heather-mcavan-4b55b62bFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/MrsMactivity Heather McAvan is a qualified teacher and EdTech entrepreneur with over 20 years’ experience in education and publishing. After a decade in the classroom and a senior role at Twinkl helping it grow into a global brand, she founded Mrs Mactivity, an award-winning platform for teachers and schools. She also created Time for Phonics, a DfE-validated, award-winning phonics programme later acquired by Discovery Education, and served as a non-executive director at Kapow Primary, supporting its growth into a leading publisher of foundation subject schemes of work. Based in Yorkshire with her three children and labrador, Loki, she’s also obsessed with the Brontës and the Tudors.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Maximise Your Education Business: The Importance of Founder's Days In this episode of the Education Business Podcast, Claire Riley, co-founder of Classroom Secrets, discusses the significance of having 'founder's days' for education business owners. She shares insights from her experience and the positive impact these dedicated days have had on her business, from addressing backlog tasks to facilitating strategic planning. Sponsored by Classroom Secrets, this podcast is perfect for those looking to grow their education business and improve outcomes for children. 00:00 Welcome to the Education Business Podcast 00:53 Introduction to Founder's Days 01:35 Implementing Founder's Days in Your Business 02:06 Conclusion and ResourcesSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Leveraging Social Media and Lived Experience: Growing an Education Business In this episode of the Education Business Podcast, host Claire Riley, co-founder of Classroom Secrets, interviews Martin, a former primary school teacher turned successful business owner. Martin shares his journey from teaching to creating a thriving Instagram presence focused on education and fitness. The discussion highlights the importance of lived experience in building impactful education businesses, the role of social media in business growth, and the need for teachers to set boundaries to improve work-life balance. Martin provides insights into his social media strategies, emphasising experimentation, consistency, and leveraging data. Both Claire and Martin underscore the power of community and visibility in inspiring positive changes within the education sector. 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast 01:10 Meet Martin: From Teacher to Instagram Sensation 01:57 The Power of Social Media in Education 02:15 Martin's Journey: From Teaching to Fitness Coaching 04:15 The Importance of Lived Experience in Business 05:18 The Safety Net of Teaching 07:19 Instagram Strategies and Success  16:09 The Challenges and Rewards of Risk-Taking 25:46 Solving the Work-Life Balance for Teachers 36:37 The Role of Social Media in Business Growth 39:51 Conclusion and Final Thoughts   All About Martin:  Martin Malone is a former primary school teacher turned online coach, known as The Teacher’s PT. After a decade in the classroom - and his own battle with burnout - he now helps teachers worldwide reclaim their confidence, build healthier routines, and put themselves first without guilt. Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/1WwWXZ7TFc6yiCTvr4sh8Z Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theteacherspt?igsh=ZzFnaDM2ejllb3l3&utm_source=qrSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Setting Effective Boundaries in Your Education Business In this episode of the Education Business Podcast, host Claire Riley, co-founder of Classroom Secrets, discusses the importance of setting boundaries for education business founders and owners. Claire shares a personal anecdote about her early tutoring days when she struggled with boundary setting, which led to a misuse of her resources by a neighbour. The story underscores the need for clear communication and boundary reinforcement in business to prevent overstepping. Claire emphasises that setting boundaries is crucial for business growth and sustainability. This episode offers practical advice on assessing and improving boundary-setting practices to enhance business operations and personal well-being. 00:00 Welcome to the Education Business Podcast 00:53 Understanding Boundaries in Business 01:44 A Personal Story on Setting Boundaries 05:33 Lessons Learned and Moving Forward 07:31 Final Thoughts and Sponsor MessageSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Building a Successful Education Business and Staying True to Your Passion In this episode of the Education Business Podcast, Claire Riley, co-founder of Classroom Secrets, interviews Sharon, a former teacher turned successful franchise owner of Connexus Tuition. Sharon shares her journey from teaching to becoming a national business leader, discussing the challenges and insights she gained along the way. They delve into topics like the importance of community, the impact of COVID-19 on the tutoring industry, and the significance of maintaining a focus on the children they serve. Sharon provides valuable advice for new franchisors and emphasises the necessity of ambition, adaptability, and staying true to the core mission of education. 00:00 Introduction and Purpose of the Podcast 01:14 Guest Introduction: Sharon's Journey from Teacher to Tutor 03:41 Scaling the Business: From Local Tutoring to National Franchise 07:26 Impact of COVID-19 on Tutoring and Community Building 15:49 The Role of Ambition in Business Growth 23:01 Insights on Franchising in the Education Sector 32:29 Final Thoughts: The Core Purpose of Education   All About Sharon: Conexus Tuition https://conexustuition.co.uk/ Conexus Tuition Franchisinghttps://www.conexustuitionfranchising.co.uk/ The Pit Ponyhttps://www.buzzsprout.com/2415215/about?fbclid=IwY2xjawMrqapleHRuA2FlbQIxMQABHnmpRy8PNiuQ-MEIHfha_2RL9m0vQatHcCfu4hT_gK7NlfM_21dtcyATN8FQ_aem__0RjkyGPHy3Xlm2yUcQQsA Instagramhttps://www.instagram.com/conexus_tuition_franchising?igsh=MTlzZ2g5NXlxcXgxeQ== CTF LinkedInhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/conexus-tuition/ CTF TikTokhttps://www.tiktok.com/tag/conexustuition CTF Facebookhttps://www.facebook.com/share/1BV9daSqJk/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Importance of External Advisors in Education Businesses In this episode of the Education Business Podcast, host Claire Riley, co-founder of Classroom Secrets, discusses the challenges of seeking and utilising advice within an education business. She emphasises the importance of having external advisors who can offer neutral, unbiased guidance, as opposed to internal team members who may have personal agendas. Riley shares insights from her own experiences and the key lesson that neutral advisors can aid in achieving a cohesive and effective organisational vision. Sponsored by Classroom Secrets, this episode aims to help education business founders enhance their impact through expert advice. 00:00 Introduction to the Education Business Podcast 00:53 Challenges in Recording and Pitching 01:04 The Role of Advisors in Your Business 02:50 The Importance of External Advisors 03:36 Conclusion and ResourcesSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Balancing Passions and Parenthood: Ruth's Journey from Teacher to Education Entrepreneur In this episode of the Education Business Podcast, Claire Riley, co-founder of Classroom Secrets, speaks with Ruth about her inspiring transition from a dedicated teacher to a thriving education entrepreneur. Ruth shares her early passion for teaching, fostered by a family deeply embedded in education, and her quick rise to senior leadership roles in schools. However, the birth of her son led her to seek flexible working hours, and when denied, she pivoted towards creating her own business. Ruth discusses the challenges of starting a business with no prior business experience, the importance of building a personal brand, and the essential role of her supportive husband. She emphasises the benefits of parental freedom that entrepreneurship offers, the reality of imposter syndrome, and the power of community and self-investment. This episode is a must-listen for anyone considering a leap from the classroom to the business world, providing valuable insights on balancing professional ambitions with family life. 00:00 Introduction to the Education Business Podcast 01:11 Guest Introduction: Ruth's Journey into Teaching 02:52 Balancing Career and Motherhood 04:53 The Turning Point: Leaving Teaching 10:57 Starting a Business During COVID 13:57 Building a Personal Brand and Business Growth 14:49 Marketing Strategies and Audience Engagement 19:03 Expanding the Business Beyond Yourself  20:30 Wearing Many Hats: The Challenges of Running a Business Solo 21:13 Balancing Family and Business: A Personal Decision 22:31 The Importance of Outsourcing and Freelancers  24:12 Working with Your Spouse: The Pros and Cons 26:01 The Joys and Struggles of Family Life as Entrepreneurs 37:07 Imposter Syndrome: A Common Entrepreneurial Hurdle 39:57 Final Thoughts and Encouragement for Aspiring Entrepreneurs   All About Ruth: Website: www.mmtplay.com Instagram: @mymummyteacher https://www.instagram.com/mymummyteacher?igsh=MTkzeHJqNGx4ajNlaQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qr @ruthtalksbusiness https://www.instagram.com/ruthtalksbusiness?igsh=bnkzaHAwcWdnZXBx&utm_source=qr  LinkedIn: Ruth Lue-Quee https://www.linkedin.com/in/ruth-lue-quee-004a051b5?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=ios_app TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mymummyteacher?_t=ZN-8zaKIQe8tBG&_r=1 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/14NVT9GPoWm/?mibextid=wwXIfr  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.