The Tutor Podcast

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This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/

The Morning Set Up

Sun, 17 Aug 2025 23:00:00 -0000

Neil explores the importance of establishing effective morning routines for tutors, teachers, and coaches. Drawing from his 26 years of experience, Neil emphasises that a well-structured morning can set a positive tone for the entire day, helping individuals feel more in control and productive. He shares practical tips on incorporating essential activities such as exercise, hydration, and journaling into the morning routine, highlighting their impact on overall health and mental clarity. Neil also discusses the significance of planning the day ahead, encouraging listeners to adopt strategies from successful individuals to create their own robust launch pads for daily success. Tune in for actionable insights that can help you start, grow, and love your tutoring business!

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Importance of Morning Routines: Establishing a morning routine sets a positive tone for the day, providing a sense of control and helping to avoid a chaotic start.

Prioritise Key Activities: Focus on doing the most important tasks first in your morning routine, akin to filling a jar with big rocks before adding smaller items, ensuring that essential activities are not overlooked.

Incorporate Health and Hydration: Include movement and exercise in your morning routine, as physical health is foundational for overall well-being. Additionally, hydrate upon waking to enhance mental and physical performance.

Plan Your Day: Create a daily plan before the day begins. Writing down your tasks helps streamline your activities and reduces decision fatigue, allowing for a smoother transition from sleep to productivity.

Adapt and Communicate: Be open to testing and tweaking your routine until it works for you. Share your routine with family members to foster understanding and potentially encourage them to adopt similar strategies for a more harmonious morning environment.

BEST MOMENTS

"If you start the day with a sense of control, then the whole day is on a good foundation."

"When you're building your routine, I think it's important to do what matters most first."

"Your health is the bedrock on which everything else in your life sits."

"Expect it to be absolutely bloody rubbish to begin with. You're going to be trying stuff out."

"Everything begins in the morning. It's the launch pad for the day."

VALUABLE RESOURCES

www.Neilcowmeadow.com

info@neilcowmeadow.com

HOST BIO

This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/

My Life, My Rules

Sun, 10 Aug 2025 23:00:00 -0000

Neil shares his personal "Rune Laws" for life, a set of 14 guiding principles that have significantly impacted his journey in tutoring, teaching, and coaching. With a focus on practical advice and a no-nonsense approach, Neil emphasizes the importance of surrounding oneself with positive influences, pursuing happiness, and being self-reliant. He encourages listeners to explore their limits, practice gratitude, and continuously learn, all while staying true to their own values and goals.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Surround Yourself with Positive Influences: Avoid toxic people and instead, cultivate relationships with those who inspire and uplift you. Your future is influenced by the company you keep.

Pursue Happiness and Abundance: Engage in activities that bring you joy and fulfilment. Embrace a mindset of abundance and generosity, recognising that you have the right to enjoy life and share your blessings with others.

Be Proactive and Self-Reliant: Take charge of your own life and decisions. Relying on others can lead to dependency; instead, focus on being self-sufficient and driving your own path.

Commit to Continuous Learning: Never stop expanding your knowledge. Regularly read, listen to podcasts, or engage with experts to keep your mind sharp and informed.

Practice Gratitude and Self-Acceptance: Appreciate the opportunities you have each day and focus on being content with yourself. Strive to please yourself rather than seeking validation from others, and recognize the importance of gratitude in fostering a positive outlook on life.

BEST MOMENTS

"Don't deal with tossers. The people around you matter more than you think, and your future will be just like theirs."

"If all you do is stuff that makes you happy, your life will be better. Don't do the miserable making things."

"Be self-reliant. Don't count on other people to come through for you in the clinch, because nobody is coming to the rescue."

"Explore your limits and push them. Ask yourself every day, what am I actually capable of?"

"Practice gratitude. Be happy you're not dead. Today's a gift. Tomorrow is only a promise."

VALUABLE RESOURCES

info@neilcowmeadow.com

HOST BIO

This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/

Right Place, Right People

Sun, 03 Aug 2025 23:00:00 -0000

Neil explores the importance of understanding the subtle cues and changes in students' behaviour and body language as indicators of their emotional and psychological states. Drawing from his 26 years of experience in the tutoring and coaching business, Neil emphasises the significance of creating a safe and comfortable learning environment that fosters playfulness and creativity. He discusses how observing changes in posture, breathing rates, and language can inform educators about their students' well-being and learning potential. Throughout the episode, Neil encourages listeners to be aware of their own impact as educators and to cultivate a nurturing space that allows learners to thrive.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Observation of Changes: Pay attention to the physical and emotional changes in students, such as posture, facial expressions, and language patterns, as these can provide insights into their learning state and overall well-being.

Creating a Safe Environment: Establish a comfortable and secure teaching space that allows learners to feel free to express themselves and explore their potential without external pressures or distractions.

Importance of Playfulness: Recognise that playfulness is a natural human quality that can enhance the learning process. Encouraging a playful atmosphere can lead to greater engagement and creativity in students.

Baseline Awareness: Develop a baseline understanding of each student's typical behavior and emotional state. This will help in identifying any significant changes that may indicate shifts in their learning or personal circumstances.

Role of the Educator: Embrace the role of being a positive, calm, and inspiring leader. Your attitude and approach can significantly influence the learning experience and help students rediscover their creativity and enthusiasm.

BEST MOMENTS

"The face encodes the whole life. It's a palimpsest, an ongoing record."

"Conventional education isn't really about educating. It's about making people manageable."

"Good things happen in great environments. Much less so in chaotic and unsafe places."

"My job is to engender change, to create the space and let the learner freely expand into it."

"Be the calm. Be the kindness. Be the excited, enthusiastic, positive leader who inspires them."

VALUABLE RESOURCES

info@neilcowmeadow.com

HOST BIO

This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/

What's Good About This - The Magic Question

Sun, 27 Jul 2025 23:00:00 -0000

Neil explores the essential balance between sameness and variety in our lives and businesses. He emphasises that while sameness provides comfort and safety, too much of it can lead to stagnation, whereas variety fosters growth but can also induce chaos if overwhelming. Neil encourages listeners to embrace challenges and unexpected changes by asking themselves, "What's good about this?" He shares the idea that every adversity carries the potential for growth, likening opportunities to seeds wrapped in manure, which can lead to beautiful outcomes if nurtured. Tune in for practical insights and motivational tips to help you start, grow, and love your tutoring business.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Balance Between Sameness and Variety: Humans have a fundamental need for both sameness, which provides safety and familiarity, and variety, which encourages growth and adaptability. Striking a balance between these two is essential for well-being.

Embracing Change: Change can be categorised into progress (desired changes) and problems (undesired changes). While most people are comfortable with progress, unexpected changes can be challenging and may require us to leave behind relationships that no longer serve our growth.

Responding to Challenges: Since we cannot predict or prevent all problems, it's crucial to develop a positive response to challenges. Asking "What's good about this?" can help identify opportunities within adversity.

Finding Opportunities in Adversity: Every challenge contains the potential for growth. By training ourselves to look for the benefits hidden within difficulties, we can transform setbacks into stepping stones for success.

Growth Through Adversity: Just as roses grow from manure, personal and professional growth often comes from navigating through tough situations. Embracing and working through challenges can lead to greater rewards and achievements.

BEST MOMENTS

"We need sameness, and we need variety. The sameness is important... But the downside of that is it's low skill."

"Most of us are OK with the progress part... many around us will be uncomfortable as we grow and change."

"Truth is, we can't prevent problems from arising... If we had it, how dull would life be if everything were that predictable?"

"Every adversity contains the seed of an equivalent benefit. What's good about this?"

"If you get more manure, you can grow more roses. No manure, no roses."

VALUABLE RESOURCES

HOST BIO

This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/

The Fundamentals Matter: Even for The Special Ones

Sun, 20 Jul 2025 23:00:00 -0000

Neil shares the challenges faced by ambitious music students, particularly guitar players, who often rush to master specific riffs and tunes without establishing a solid foundation in the fundamentals of music. Drawing from his 26 years of experience, Neil shares insights on the importance of building core techniques and understanding the basics to avoid stagnation in a student's learning journey. He emphasises the necessity of going back to zero to install these essential skills, especially for those who believe they lack talent.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Importance of Fundamentals: Many students, especially those with natural talent or ambition, often skip the foundational skills necessary for long-term success in learning an instrument. Building a solid understanding of the basics is crucial for future progress.

Common Pitfalls in Learning: Students may rush to master specific riffs or songs without grasping the underlying principles of music, leading to frustration and stagnation in their learning journey.

Addressing Misconceptions: It's common for learners to believe they lack talent when they struggle, but the real issue often lies in their inadequate grasp of fundamental techniques and concepts.

Need for Rigorous Teaching: Instructors must be firm and diligent in reinforcing the basics, even with experienced players who may feel that revisiting foundational skills is beneath them. This approach is essential for unlocking their full potential.

Long-Term Benefits of Solid Foundations: Investing time in establishing strong fundamentals can significantly alter the trajectory of a student's musical career, enabling them to thrive and excel in their playing.

BEST MOMENTS

"Some students learn more slowly than others, while obviously some learn more quickly. Some of them need tons of guidance right down to a micro level, whilst others are comparatively loose cannons."

"In the rush to master this riff or that tune, the student focuses on just that one small thing rather than installing the fundamentals which will underpin everything going forward."

"Our own enthusiasm caused us to make the error of skipping the fundamentals, or not even knowing there were fundamentals to be skipped."

"Without the fundamentals, without what matters most, everything else is standing on very dodgy ground."

"Trying to teach someone new things when they haven't got the basics down is like putting lipstick on a pig; it doesn't make the pig any prettier."

VALUABLE RESOURCES

www.Neilcowmeadow.com

info@neilcowmeadow.com

HOST BIO

This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/

I'm Wrong About Everything

Sun, 13 Jul 2025 23:00:00 -0000

Neil explores the value of recognising and embracing our mistakes as opportunities for growth. Drawing from his 26 years of experience in the tutoring and coaching business, Neil emphasises the importance of revisiting old learning materials with a fresh perspective, acknowledging that our understanding evolves over time. He encourages listeners to identify areas in their lives and businesses that may not be working and to view these challenges as chances to learn and improve. By adopting a mindset that welcomes being wrong, Neil suggests that we can discover new approaches and ultimately enhance our effectiveness. T

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Embrace Being Wrong: Recognising that you may be wrong about your beliefs or methods is a crucial step towards personal and professional growth. It allows for the identification of misconceptions and the opportunity to correct them.

Continuous Learning: Revisiting old materials and experiences with a fresh perspective can reveal insights that were previously overlooked. This process of continual learning and reevaluation is essential for improvement.

Seek Excellence: If you struggle in a particular area, find someone who excels in that field and learn from them. Adopting their beliefs and approaches can lead to significant improvements in your own performance.

Change Your Approach: Sticking to ineffective methods can lead to frustration. It's important to recognise when a strategy isn't working and be willing to try new approaches to achieve better results.

Reflect on Your Life: Take time to assess different aspects of your life and business. Identifying areas that need improvement can lead to personal growth and better outcomes in your endeavours.

BEST MOMENTS

"Whenever we find we're wrong about pretty much anything at all, we really should smile and pat ourselves on the back."

"Understanding that what you currently believe or understand about the world is just the best you've managed to come up with so far is a more helpful and hopeful interpretation."

"If you really suck at something, find someone who's excellent at it. Ask them how they do it."

"It's pretty obvious that almost anything else has a better chance of outperforming what you've been doing for years, and that consistently doesn't work."

"My suggestion for today is that you look at your life, your business, look at how you live, the way you move through the world."

VALUABLE RESOURCES

www.Neilcowmeadow.com

info@neilcowmeadow.com

HOST BIO

This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/

Boo, Reality

Sun, 06 Jul 2025 23:00:00 -0000

Neil explores the concept of reality and how our perceptions shape our experiences. He introduces the idea of chaos magic, emphasising that we can manipulate our interpretation of events to create a more positive and beneficial reality for ourselves. Through engaging anecdotes and practical examples, Neil encourages listeners to reframe challenges as opportunities for growth and exploration. He invites them to ask the empowering question, "What's good about this?" when faced with obstacles, highlighting the transformative power of perspective.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Reality is Subjective: Our perception of reality can be shaped by how we choose to interpret events and circumstances in our lives. By reframing our thoughts, we can create a more positive and beneficial reality for ourselves.

Obstacles as Opportunities: Challenges in business can be viewed either as dead-end threats or as playful searches for solutions. Adopting a positive mindset can motivate us to engage with problems and find constructive outcomes.

Ask the Right Questions: When faced with difficulties, asking questions like "What's good about this?" can help shift our perspective and uncover hidden advantages or lessons in challenging situations.

Interpretation Matters: The way we interpret events, such as a student quitting lessons or experiencing physical discomfort, can significantly affect our emotional response and overall outlook. Finding the silver lining can lead to personal growth and resilience.

Play with Your Reality: Embrace the idea that you can manipulate your perception of reality like plasticine. Experimenting with different interpretations can lead to a more enjoyable and fulfilling life experience.

BEST MOMENTS

"One of the things I'm very interested in is chaos magic. This is the manipulation of reality in conformity with your own will."

"Your ability to apply your own filters and to spin your response to those external factors makes reality much more subjective."

"The impediment to action advances action. What stands in the way becomes the way."

"Gaze into the problem. Look lovingly into the eyes of the problem and ask yourself, what's lovely about this?"

"Your reality is more subjective than most people think. So why not go and play with it?"

VALUABLE RESOURCES

www.Neilcowmeadow.com

info@neilcowmeadow.com

HOST BIO

This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/

The Thinking Book Socrates and The Unexamined Life

Sun, 29 Jun 2025 23:00:00 -0000

Neil talks through the profound concept of self-examination, inspired by the famous quote from Socrates, "the unexamined life is not worth living." Drawing from his 26 years of experience in the tutoring and coaching business, Neil emphasises the importance of self-reflection, critical thinking, and living with intention. He shares practical tools for listeners to explore their own lives, encouraging them to confront their beliefs and motivations while avoiding stagnation. Through personal anecdotes and insights, Neil illustrates how writing down thoughts can enhance self-awareness and purpose, ultimately leading to a more meaningful existence. Tune in for actionable advice and inspiration to help you start, grow, and love your tutoring business.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Importance of Self-Reflection: Engaging in introspection allows individuals to examine their thoughts, beliefs, values, and motivations, leading to a deeper understanding of oneself.

Critical Thinking: Continuously challenging one's own assumptions and questioning established norms is essential for personal growth and progress, as it prevents stagnation and encourages evolution.

Living Intentionally: Discovering one's true purpose and living with intention is crucial for a meaningful life. Regularly asking oneself "What am I for?" can help in this pursuit.

Avoiding Stagnation: Comfort zones can hinder growth. Embracing discomfort and seeking challenges are necessary for personal development and to avoid a directionless existence.

Writing as a Tool for Clarity: Writing down thoughts and reflections can enhance self-awareness and retention of information. It serves as a mirror to confront personal justifications and encourages accountability for one's actions.

BEST MOMENTS

"The unexamined life is not worth living... a life devoid of self-reflection, critical thinking, and a conscious effort to understand oneself is a life not fully lived."

"If you're comfortable, where's the spur to action? How are you going to grow? What's going to make you make an effort?"

"Self-examination through reflection and critical thinking have given my own life more purpose and helped me to avoid the stagnation of the comfort trap."

"I believe one reveals meaning to oneself over time and little by little... you can make the entire journey that way, one headlight at a time."

"When we write, we have to really crystallize the idea more accurately to pull the strands of thinking together and clarify what matters."

VALUABLE RESOURCES

www.Neilcowmeadow.com

info@neilcowmeadow.com

HOST BIO

This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/

When the Music Stops - Part Two

Mon, 23 Jun 2025 00:00:00 -0000

Neil dives into the often-overlooked topic of pensions, challenging the notion that they are boring. Drawing from his 26 years of experience in the tutoring and business world, Neil discusses the importance of taking control of your retirement funds and explores two key pension options for tutors: the Self-Invested Personal Pension (SIP) and the Small Self-Administered Scheme (SAS). He highlights the benefits and drawbacks of each, emphasising the potential for tax efficiency and investment flexibility.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Understanding Pensions: Pensions are not boring; they can be exciting and dynamic financial tools that can significantly impact your retirement savings and tax efficiency.

Types of Pensions: There are two main types of pensions discussed: Self-Invested Personal Pensions (SIPs) for sole traders and partnerships, and Small Self-Administered Schemes (SAS) for company directors and family businesses.

Tax Benefits: Contributions to both SIPs and SASs can provide tax relief, allowing individuals to save on taxes while building their retirement funds. For example, basic rate taxpayers can receive a 20% contribution from the government for their SIPs.

Control and Flexibility: SIPs offer a simpler structure with less control over investments, while SASs provide greater flexibility and control, allowing members to lend money back to their businesses and invest in commercial properties.

Importance of Compliance: SAS schemes require careful administration and compliance with regulations, which can be complex and costly. It's essential to ensure that the scheme remains compliant to avoid losing tax benefits.

BEST MOMENTS

"If you want to stop me teaching, you're going to need a .357 and get at least three good shots in."

"Pensions are not boring. They're exciting and dynamic. They're lovely."

"If you haven't already done so, go online and search for your own forgotten pension."

"The contributions into the SAS are a business expense, thus reducing profits and your corporation tax liability."

"Just having that think could be worth tens or even hundreds of thousands of pounds to you."

VALUABLE RESOURCES

www.Neilcowmeadow.com

info@neilcowmeadow.com

HOST BIO

This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/

Running Out of Goals

Mon, 09 Jun 2025 00:00:00 -0000

Neil discusses the often overlooked challenge of what to do after achieving your goals. Drawing from his 26 years of experience in the tutoring business, Neil emphasises the importance of continuous growth and the dangers of complacency that can follow success. He shares personal anecdotes, including a pivotal moment during his glider training that led him to realise his true passion for teaching guitar. The episode encourages listeners to reassess their goals and maintain momentum by setting new targets, ensuring that the pursuit of meaningful achievements remains a lifelong journey. Tune in for practical tips and insights to help you stay motivated and engaged in your tutoring, teaching, or coaching business.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

The Importance of Goal Setting: Setting specific, stretch goals is crucial for personal and professional growth. Writing down these goals helps maintain focus and motivation.
Avoiding the Trap of Complacency: Achieving a goal can lead to a sense of completion, which may result in a lack of direction and motivation. It's essential to continually ask, "What's next?" after reaching a goal.
Continuous Learning and Growth: A fulfilling life involves ongoing learning and the pursuit of new goals. Stopping after achieving a target can lead to feelings of emptiness and stagnation.
Reassessing Goals: Regularly revisiting and adjusting goals is vital. After achieving certain milestones, it's important to set new objectives to maintain momentum and purpose.
Finding Meaningful Activities: Engaging in activities that truly resonate with you can help sustain motivation and happiness. It's important to identify what brings you joy and fulfillment beyond initial successes.

BEST MOMENTS

"When you've hit your targets and you stop, you might have a vague idea that there's something missing from your life."

"A happy life is a life that has a purpose and a meaning. A life that is full of growth and pursuit of worthy goals."

"I think I'd rather be playing my guitar. Oh, said the backseat. It was a long silence. I think I'm done here, I said."

"What happens after you start achieving some of them? The end of this year's goals are only the beginning of whatever you decide to do after you nail those goals."

"Make sure never to outrun or beat your goals. Keep moving the goalposts further forward, like a ratchet."

VALUABLE RESOURCES

HOST BIO

This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/

Steppin' Into State

Mon, 02 Jun 2025 00:00:00 -0000

Neil explores the transformative power of music in shaping our mood and energy levels. Drawing from personal anecdotes, including a memorable experience in a factory setting, Neil emphasises how the right soundtrack can uplift spirits and enhance productivity. He encourages listeners to consciously select music that energises and inspires them, rather than passively accepting whatever is playing in the background. With a lively and engaging tone, Neil invites everyone to embrace the joy of music, dance freely, and cultivate a positive atmosphere in their lives and businesses. Tune in for practical tips and a dose of motivation to help you start, grow, and love your tutoring journey!

KEY TAKEAWAYS

The Power of Music: Music significantly influences mood and behaviour. Choosing the right soundtrack can uplift your spirits and enhance productivity, while negative or slow music can have the opposite effect.
Conscious Choice: It's essential to consciously select music that energises and motivates you rather than passively accepting whatever is playing. This choice can dramatically impact your daily mood and overall outlook.
Physical Response: Engaging with music physically, such as dancing or moving to the beat, can further elevate your mood and energy levels. Embracing joy and movement can lead to a more positive state of mind.
Real-Life Example: A personal anecdote illustrates how changing the background music in a work environment transformed the atmosphere and boosted productivity, highlighting the immediate effects of music on a group’s morale.
Encouragement to Dance: Emphasising the importance of joy and self-expression, the message encourages listeners to embrace their inner dancer, regardless of age, to maintain a youthful spirit and enhance their happiness.

BEST MOMENTS

"Music is one of the most powerful influence tools I know of."

"If you're not consciously manipulating your reality and your mood by choosing a soundtrack that lifts you up, what are you listening to?"

"Choose the music that lifts you up and makes you feel yeah. Don't default to whatever."

"Turn the music up and feel your mood shift, your energy rise."

"A dear friend of mine is in her 80s... She's a dancer. She's got more going than most people think is right for a lady of her years."

VALUABLE RESOURCES

HOST BIO

This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/

Shifting States

Mon, 26 May 2025 00:00:00 -0000

Neil addresses the common feelings of being lost and purposeless that many listeners have expressed after the previous episode. Neil shares a powerful technique to shift one's mindset by changing body posture. He emphasises the connection between body and mind, encouraging listeners to adopt a victorious stance to boost their confidence and energy. By engaging in this simple yet effective practice, Neil aims to help listeners take control of their emotions and set a positive tone for their day.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Mind-Body Connection: The relationship between the mind and body is interconnected; changing your posture can significantly influence your mental state. Adopting a confident stance can help shift feelings of depression or lethargy.
Victory Posture Exercise: To improve your mood and energy, practice standing tall with your arms raised in a victory pose. This physical change can evoke feelings of success and confidence, helping to combat negative thoughts.
Morning Rituals Matter: Establishing a positive morning routine is crucial. Avoid hitting the snooze button, make your bed, and start your day with a winner's mindset to set a productive tone for the rest of the day.
Behaviour Influences Mood: Your actions and how you present yourself can dictate your feelings. Slouching or dressing in a sloppy manner can lead to a negative mindset, while adopting a more active and positive demeanour can enhance motivation.
Consistency is Key: Regularly practising these techniques can lead to lasting changes in your mindset and overall well-being. Make it a habit to shift your state and embrace a winner's mentality to improve your life and business.

BEST MOMENTS

"Where the mind goes, the body follows. And where the body follows, the mind follows in turn."

"This is a really simple, extremely powerful tool that can change everything in just a moment or three."

"Your behavior is dictating how you're going to feel. How can you be positive and motivated if you're just slobbing around?"

"If you didn't do it, get off your butt and do it now. Repeat it. Repeat. Repeat."

"Winners don't slob like that. It's not going to happen."

VALUABLE RESOURCES

HOST BIO

This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/

Make Today Matter

Mon, 19 May 2025 00:00:00 -0000

Neil explores the importance of having a purpose in life, drawing from his 26 years of experience in the tutoring and coaching business. He emphasises that a clear sense of purpose can motivate individuals to rise each morning and persevere through challenges, ultimately shaping their lives and legacies. Neil encourages listeners to reflect on their future and design their lives intentionally, rather than passively accepting the status quo. He poses thought provoking questions about envisioning a fulfilling life over the next 15 years and urges listeners to take actionable steps towards their goals. This episode is a call to ignite one's inner fire and pursue a meaningful existence, making each day count.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Purpose Drives Action: Having a clear purpose in life is essential as it motivates individuals to get out of bed, work hard, and persevere through challenges. It serves as the fuel that ignites passion and determination.
Life is About Change: It's a common misconception that life will remain the same over the years. Embracing the inevitability of change is crucial, and having a plan can help navigate life's uncertainties.
Design Your Future: Actively designing your future and setting goals is important. Without a plan, individuals risk becoming tools in someone else's dream rather than pursuing their own aspirations.
Addressing Feelings of Being Lost: Many people experience feelings of being lost due to various life changes, such as empty nesting, job loss, or relationship breakdowns. Writing down life goals can help provide direction and clarity.
Engage in Meaningful Conversations: Instead of typical discussions about hypothetical scenarios like winning the lottery, consider asking deeper questions about life goals and aspirations. This can inspire others to think about their purpose and ignite their inner fire.

BEST MOMENTS

"Purpose is the fuel that fires you up, and the fire, once you've got it lit, that'll burn through the rest of your life."

"If you don't have a plan for your own life, you'll always end up working for someone who does have a plan for their life."

"Make a list. Write your life design down. If you've got one already and you sort it out, brilliant."

"The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step."

"You have 15 years to live. Whatever you decide to do will come to pass."

VALUABLE RESOURCES

HOST BIO

This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/

Lifetime Value of an Hour

Mon, 12 May 2025 00:00:00 -0000

Neil delves into the concept of maximising the value of each hour spent in the tutoring business. He reflects on the finite nature of time and the importance of creating lasting impacts beyond immediate financial transactions. Neil encourages listeners to consider the lifetime value of their teaching hours, emphasising the potential to develop resources and products that can generate passive income and leave a legacy for future generations. He shares insights from his 26 years of experience, urging tutors, teachers, and coaches to think strategically about their business growth and the long-term benefits they can provide to their students and communities. Tune in for practical tips and thought-provoking ideas to help you start, grow, and love your tutoring business.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Value of Time: Time is a finite resource, and it's crucial to maximise the value of each hour spent in your tutoring or coaching business. Reflecting on how to extend the impact of an hour beyond immediate financial gain can lead to greater long-term benefits.
Creating Lasting Resources: Developing teaching materials, essays, and other resources can provide enduring value that benefits students for years to come. This approach can help create a legacy that extends beyond the immediate teaching experience.
Avoiding the Comfort Zone: Once a business reaches a stable level of income, it's easy to fall into a comfort zone. It's important to focus on building the business for the future rather than just managing day-to-day operations.
Exit Strategy: Consider where you want your business to go in the long term. Having a clear exit strategy and understanding what you want to leave behind can guide your decisions and actions.
Community Engagement: Engaging with the community and seeking feedback from others in the field can provide valuable insights. Sharing experiences and wisdom can enhance personal growth and improve the tutoring business.

BEST MOMENTS

"As everybody knows, this is your most critical resource. You can make more money, but you can never make any more time."

"What if you spent some of your hours creating products and services which could sell for years or decades and provide you with more or less passive income for years to come?"

"The hour you're getting paid your hourly rate for may not be the very best use of that particular hour."

"Can I create something tangible in an hour that will be valuable for years to come in the same way we're able to create these intangible benefits for our students?"

"I know that nobody has all the answers, especially not me. So share your wisdom and your story with me."

VALUABLE RESOURCES

HOST BIO

This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/

A Fish Out of Water

Mon, 05 May 2025 00:00:00 -0000

Neil shares insights from his 26 years in the tutoring business, emphasising the importance of finding the right environment for personal and professional growth. Drawing from a recent experience at a corporate event that felt misaligned with his values, Neil discusses the common struggle of staying in situations that no longer serve us due to a fear of change and the desire for consistency. He highlights how this resistance can hinder progress, both for individuals and their students, and encourages listeners to seek out communities that challenge them to grow.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Finding Your Tribe: It's essential to surround yourself with people who align with your values and aspirations. If you feel out of place in a particular environment, it may be time to seek a community that better supports your growth.
Resistance to Change: Humans often resist change due to a desire for consistency in their identity. This can lead to staying in unfulfilling jobs or relationships, as well as self-sabotage when trying to pursue new opportunities.
Self-Sabotage in Learning: Students may struggle to progress because they cling to their existing identity, which can hinder their ability to embrace new skills or knowledge. This resistance can manifest as excuses or a lack of practice.
Comfort vs. Growth: Staying in a comfortable state may feel safe, but it can prevent personal and professional growth. Embracing challenges and stepping out of your comfort zone can lead to more fulfilling experiences.
Taking Action: It's important to act boldly and decisively when pursuing goals. Hesitation and tiptoeing can lead to missed opportunities, so finding the courage to move forward is crucial for success.

BEST MOMENTS

"If you're the smartest person in the room, you're in the wrong room."

"Staying the same is a risk aversion or amelioration survival strategy. Keeps you safe where you are."

"When we grow and develop, we take away their excuses and their alibis."

"If you find yourself in the wrong room, make me a promise and get out as quickly as possible."

"Life is like that. Go find a better room."

VALUABLE RESOURCES

HOST BIO

It Is Not a Dirty Word

Mon, 28 Apr 2025 00:00:00 -0000

Neil dives into the essential role of marketing for anyone looking to start or grow their tutoring, teaching, or coaching business. Drawing from a recent conversation with a friend contemplating entrepreneurship as an electrician, Neil emphasises that operations can only begin once you have customers, making marketing the crucial first step. He addresses the common discomfort many feel about self-promotion, encouraging listeners to overcome their fears and recognise that marketing is not a dirty word, but rather a vital means of connecting with those who need their unique skills and insights. With a blend of personal anecdotes and practical advice, Neil inspires his audience to step out of their comfort zones, share their expertise, and ultimately serve their communities better.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Marketing is Essential: Before any operations can take place in a business, marketing must happen first. It's crucial to let potential customers know you exist, as without awareness, your skills and services cannot be utilised.
Overcoming Discomfort: Many people feel uncomfortable promoting themselves due to fears of being perceived as arrogant. However, embracing this discomfort is necessary to connect with those who need your help and to avoid remaining invisible in your field.
Understanding Your Tribe: Identify and engage with your "tribe"—the people who need your unique skills and insights. By showing up for them and sharing your expertise, you can make a significant impact on their lives.
The Value of Your Work: Recognise that the money you earn is a reward for the value you provide. If you enjoy your work and help others, it's not only acceptable but essential to market yourself and your services.
Consistency is Key: Regularly communicate what you do and how you can help others. Make it a habit to promote your services daily, whether through social media, ads, or personal outreach, to ensure that those who need your help can find you.

BEST MOMENTS

"Marketing is what happens first. Always. There's no point in being a reliable and excellent electrician if nobody knows you exist."

"If you're too cowardly to trust in your own skills and your own integrity, what will the next 10 years be like for you?"

"The money is the silent reward for a job well done."

"If marketing yourself and your business makes you uncomfortable, you have a choice. You can cower in the face of that discomfort, or step up."

"For heaven's sake, go out and tell someone what you do today, and then do it again tomorrow."

VALUABLE RESOURCES

HOST BIO

It Works For Me

Mon, 21 Apr 2025 00:00:00 -0000

Neil shares insights from his 26 years of experience in the tutoring, teaching, and coaching business. He emphasises the power of lists as essential tools for organisation and clarity, introducing his unique "what works" list, which helps him evaluate his life and business periodically. By categorising what works and what doesn't, Neil encourages listeners to confront uncomfortable truths and make necessary changes to enhance their productivity and well-being. With practical examples and a no-nonsense approach, this episode aims to inspire tutors, teachers, and coaches to streamline their processes and ultimately love their businesses even more.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

The Power of Lists: Creating various lists, such as to-do lists, shopping lists, and a "don't do" list, can help streamline tasks, reduce indecision, and enhance productivity in both personal and business contexts.
What Works vs. What Doesn't: Maintaining a "what works" list can clarify effective behaviours and strategies, while a "what doesn't work" list helps identify and eliminate negative influences and habits that hinder progress.
Self-Review Process: Conducting periodic self-reviews, ideally quarterly, allows for reflection on personal and business growth, helping to assess whether goals are being met and areas for improvement are identified.
Honesty in Reflection: When creating lists, it's important to be brutally honest about what works and what doesn't, as this honesty can lead to valuable insights and necessary changes in behaviour or environment.
Daily Practices for Well-Being: Incorporating daily gratitude and reflection practices can significantly enhance mood and sense of purpose, while neglecting these practices can lead to negative feelings and decreased motivation.

BEST MOMENTS

"A to-do list is, for me, a parking space for everything that needs to be done. It's also where I outsource my worrying to."

"Don't overthink it, just whazz down the list, go from your guts, don't censor yourself, you're looking to gain clarity and insight."

"This can be uncomfortable. And that's the very reason I think you should do it. Because you may confront uncomfortable truths about yourself."

"The left column is what works for me. The right column is what doesn't work for me."

"Grab yourself a pen and paper. Make yourself a nice cup of tea. And get scribbling."

VALUABLE RESOURCES

HOST BIO

Hacking the Dark Side

Mon, 14 Apr 2025 00:00:00 -0000

Neil talks about the complexities of work ethic and its impact on adult learners, particularly in the context of guitar playing. He discusses how a strong work ethic can hinder individuals from engaging in enjoyable activities, leading to feelings of guilt and paralysis. Neil shares practical strategies for overcoming these mental barriers, such as reframing practice as an opportunity for exploration and creativity, silencing negative inner voices, and normalizing music within families. He emphasises the importance of fostering a sense of possibility and joy in learning, encouraging students to embrace their passions and share them with their loved ones.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Recognising the Problem: It's essential to identify and acknowledge the mental barriers that prevent students from engaging in activities they enjoy, such as playing guitar. These barriers often stem from guilt associated with taking time for personal pleasure.
Reframing Practice: Instead of using the term "practice," which can feel like a chore, encourage students to view their time with the guitar as an opportunity for exploration and fun. This shift in language can help reduce resistance and foster a more positive experience.
Silencing Negative Voices: Many adult learners carry the weight of past criticisms from teachers or peers that discourage them from pursuing their interests. Techniques such as visualisation and reframing can help students disempower these negative voices and build their confidence.
Modelling Behaviour for Children: Parents who engage in music or creative activities normalise these pursuits for their children. By playing and sharing their passion, parents provide silent permission for their kids to explore music, making it a natural part of family life.
Fostering a Sense of Possibility: The ultimate goal of teaching is to help students leave feeling like better versions of themselves. Engaging in music can spark a sense of hope and aspiration, encouraging individuals to express their true selves and share that joy with others.

BEST MOMENTS

"Recognise the problem is in their head, it's an imaginary problem. We have to hold their beliefs to light and say, is this realistic? Is this rational?"

"I reckon I've spent 80% of my time rummaging around with people's belief systems and their psyche, trying to figure out how they got messed up and then spoil it for them."

"As part of that, I get to rebrand the idea of practice. Stop it. Tell them to pick up their guitar, grin like a maniac, make a load of noise."

"When the parents don't play, music is special. If parents play... it normalises music for the kids."

"My fervent hope is that students leave the teaching room every time as slightly better versions of themselves."

VALUABLE RESOURCES

HOST BIO

The Dark Side of a Strong Work Ethic

Mon, 07 Apr 2025 00:00:00 -0000

Neil reflects on the intersection of work ethic and creativity, particularly in the context of adult learners who struggle to engage with their passion for playing guitar. As he prepares to celebrate a milestone birthday, Neil shares his personal journey of transforming work from a burdensome obligation into a joyful pursuit. He discusses the challenges faced by high-achieving individuals who feel guilty about taking time for themselves to play music, viewing it as a frivolous activity. By creating a unique and supportive environment for his students, Neil aims to help them overcome their internal conflicts and embrace the joy of learning and playing music. He invites listeners to share their experiences and strategies for navigating similar challenges, promising to delve deeper into this topic in the next episode.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Work Ethic vs. Play: A strong work ethic can hinder personal enjoyment and creativity, particularly in adult learners who may feel guilty about engaging in activities like playing guitar, which they perceive as non-productive.
Creating a Special Learning Environment: Establishing a unique and supportive space for learning can help students disconnect from their everyday responsibilities and pressures, allowing them to focus on their passion for music without guilt.
Addressing Guilt in Learning: Many adult learners struggle with the guilt of taking time for themselves to pursue hobbies. It's essential to help them understand that engaging in these activities is not selfish but can be a valuable part of their personal growth.
Mindset Shift: Encouraging students to view guitar playing as a productive and fulfilling activity can help them overcome their internal conflicts and make it easier for them to practice and enjoy their learning journey.
Continuous Learning and Sharing: The importance of sharing experiences and techniques with others in the teaching community is emphasised, as it can lead to better strategies for helping students navigate their challenges related to work ethic and personal enjoyment.

BEST MOMENTS

"What I would observe about myself is this isn't a drive anymore. It's as though I'm being drawn to it."

"For my high-achieving adult learners, reality is all about the hustle. It's about the grind, it's about the business, it's about the family."

"When it does get in the way, it stops them. Mostly because guitar playing is essentially a frivolous and non-productive thing to do."

"It's not a lack of practice, but the guilt of doing something which they think is just for themselves and produces nothing of value."

"If we don't confront this with our adults, we won't be able to serve them well."

VALUABLE RESOURCES

HOST BIO

The Joy of Boring

Mon, 31 Mar 2025 00:00:00 -0000

Neil explores the often overlooked value of embracing the "boring" aspects of tutoring, teaching, and coaching. Neil emphasises that consistency and repetition can lead to mastery and improvement. He discusses how refining and perfecting familiar routines can yield better results, whether in teaching, gym workouts, or property investing. By advocating for a mindset that welcomes the mundane, Neil encourages listeners to focus on incremental improvements rather than chasing the next shiny opportunity. This episode serves as a reminder that excellence often stems from doing the same things better each day, ultimately leading to greater success in their tutoring businesses.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Embrace Boring: Boring tasks can indicate mastery and competence. By focusing on improving the same routines and processes, one can achieve better results over time.
Continuous Improvement: Strive to do the same things better each day. Whether in teaching, exercising, or investing, the goal should be to refine and enhance your approach consistently.
Avoid Distractions: Resist the urge to chase new opportunities before perfecting existing ones. The "bright, shiny penny syndrome" can lead to neglecting what is already working well.
Learning from Failure: Failure is a crucial part of the learning process. Each failure provides valuable feedback that can be used to improve future efforts.
Practice Makes Perfect: Just like learning to walk, skills become second nature through repetition and practice. Start by doing things imperfectly, then gradually improve until they become effortless.

BEST MOMENTS

"I think we need to talk about the joy of being boring. I love boring... If you can make it even better every day, that boring things become very, very interesting."

"The secret of excellence... is to reiterate and refine your winning formula to become the very best at what you do."

"Failure is the precursor of excellence. The more you fail, the more feedback and data you'll gather and the better you'll do next time around."

"Boring is consistent. It's predictable, it's reliable and it's replicable. So I don't have a problem with boring."

"If I can get my students to do it badly at first, that's great because they'll do better over time."

VALUABLE RESOURCES

HOST BIO

The Elephant in the Room is Probably Me

Mon, 24 Mar 2025 01:00:00 -0000

Neil dives into the crucial topic of health and fitness for tutors, teachers, and coaches. He emphasises the sedentary nature of tutoring and how it can lead to poor dietary choices, ultimately affecting both personal well-being and business performance. Neil discusses the negative impacts of consuming fast food and high-carb snacks, which can lead to energy crashes and long-term health issues like obesity and diabetes. He offers practical advice on meal planning, the importance of cooking with real ingredients, and the benefits of regular exercise. By prioritising health and fitness, listeners can enhance their quality of life and improve their effectiveness in their teaching roles. Tune in for actionable tips and insights to help you stay vibrant and powerful in your mission to make a difference.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Health and Fitness Importance: The sedentary nature of tutoring can lead to neglecting health and fitness, which is crucial for maintaining energy levels and overall well-being.
Impact of Diet on Performance: Consuming fast food and high-carb snacks can lead to energy crashes, affecting the ability to deliver quality teaching and maintain focus during sessions.
Long-term Health Consequences: Poor dietary choices can lead to serious health issues such as obesity and type 2 diabetes, which can also impact professional credibility and attractiveness to clients.
Practical Dietary Changes: Planning meals, cooking with real ingredients, and avoiding processed foods, low-fat products, and meat substitutes can significantly improve health and energy levels.
Exercise as a Priority: Incorporating regular exercise not only benefits physical health but also has psychological advantages, enhancing mood and overall mental well-being, which is essential for effective teaching.

BEST MOMENTS

"If you're consuming that kind of junk, you're really not looking after the asset, are you?"

"You can't exercise your way out of a bad diet. If you want abs, you'll find them in the kitchen."

"It's an unpleasant reality, but there's loads of research out there that says that attractive people do better than unattractive people, in business, in life and in love."

"The job of exercise is to provoke a response from the body, to make the body overcompensate for the stress you've hit it with."

"Taking care of your health, fitness and diets should be a top priority. It won't immediately save your life but it will almost certainly let you live longer healthier and better."

VALUABLE RESOURCES

HOST BIO

Earning a Pound versus Saving a Pound

Mon, 17 Mar 2025 01:00:00 -0000

Neil talks about the crucial difference between earning money and saving money, using a personal anecdote about a tenant's high electricity bill to illustrate his point. He emphasises that whilst earning an extra pound may seem equivalent to saving a pound, the reality is that earned money is subject to taxes and deductions, making saved money far more valuable. Neil shares practical tips on reducing unnecessary expenses, such as canceling unused subscriptions, minimising food waste, and exploring overlooked opportunities like renting out spare rooms. By focusing on cost-saving strategies, listeners can potentially reduce their workload and increase their financial well being.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Earning vs. Saving Money: There is a significant difference between earning a pound and saving a pound. While both may seem equivalent, saved money goes directly to the bottom line as pure profit, whereas earned money is subject to taxes and deductions.
Understanding Tax Implications: To take home an extra pound, one must earn significantly more due to income tax and National Insurance deductions.
Reducing Unnecessary Expenses: Regularly review and cut unnecessary expenses, such as unused subscriptions or inefficient routines, to improve financial health. Small savings can accumulate and lead to significant financial benefits.
Maximising Resources: Look for overlooked opportunities to generate income, such as renting out spare rooms. This can provide substantial additional income without requiring extra work.
Mindful Spending: Avoid impulse purchases and wasteful habits, such as food waste or unnecessary storage costs. Being mindful of spending can help reduce costs and improve overall financial stability.

BEST MOMENTS

"A saved pound is a pound. End of story. Well, almost. The saved pound is equal to at least £1.30 of pre-tax earned money."

"To earn an extra pound in your hand, you're going to have to earn a lot more than that, because you're going to have some of it sliced off in deductions and taxation."

"We all do daft things. I am living proof of doing daft things on a daily basis. But doing daft things with money is something you can probably change."

"If you have a spare room in the house, consider renting it out. You can rent a room at your house for up to seven and a half thousand pounds a year before you have to even mention it on your tax return."

"Saving money here and there won't make you rich directly, but it just might mean that you don't have to work quite so much to have more money in your pocket."

VALUABLE RESOURCES

HOST BIO

The Way of The Polymath

Mon, 10 Mar 2025 01:00:00 -0000

Neil talks about the importance of broadening one's knowledge beyond the confines of a specific field, particularly in tutoring, teaching, and coaching. Drawing from his 26 years of experience, Neil shares insights on how reading outside of one's specialisation can lead to greater creativity, flexibility, and problem solving abilities. He discusses the value of exploring diverse subjects, such as tax law and behavioral science, and how these peripheral interests can significantly enhance teaching methods. Neil encourages listeners to embrace a polymath approach, suggesting that by reading widely, they can uncover valuable ideas that can be applied to their own practices, ultimately enriching their professional and personal lives.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Broaden Your Reading: Engaging with literature outside of your specialisation can provide valuable insights and ideas that enhance your teaching and business practices.
Value of Non-Teaching Knowledge: Learning about topics such as tax law, psychology, and business can yield significant financial and operational benefits, often outweighing the potential gains from reading more specialised teaching materials.
Avoiding Specialization Pitfalls: Over specialisation can limit creativity and flexibility. A diverse knowledge base allows for a more adaptable approach to teaching and problem solving.
Polymath Advantage: Cultivating a wide range of knowledge and skills can improve your ability to connect with various students and handle different teaching scenarios effectively.
Encouragement to Explore: Readers are urged to explore non fiction books outside their field to discover new ideas and perspectives that can be applied to their own work, fostering personal and professional growth.

BEST MOMENTS

"The more widely read I am, the more flexible my behaviour can be and the more likely I am to achieve my objectives because I have multiple points of view."

"If I stuck to only reading guitar teaching books, I'd be dry as toast and way less equipped to teach."

"They say a specialist is someone who knows more and more about less and less. And I'm inclined to agree with that."

"Reading up on tax and arranging my affairs in accordance with the rules has been really, really valuable."

"The more widely you read, the more interesting you become, too."

VALUABLE RESOURCES

HOST BIO

Ditch Your TO Do List, Try This Instead

Mon, 03 Mar 2025 01:00:00 -0000

Neil explores the transformative power of to-do lists and introduces a unique twist: the "don't do it" list. Drawing from his 26 years of experience in the tutoring and coaching business, Neil emphasises the importance of writing down tasks to alleviate mental clutter and stress. He shares his personal journey of identifying both productive behaviors and detrimental habits by creating two columns—one for what works and another for what doesn't. This introspective exercise not only helps in recognising patterns of behavior but also encourages listeners to confront their inner challenges. Neil invites everyone to grab a pen and paper, make their own lists, and discover how this simple practice can lead to greater clarity and control in their lives.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Importance of Lists: Writing down tasks and responsibilities helps manage the chaos of daily life. A to-do list can alleviate stress by organising thoughts and actions, allowing for better focus and productivity.
Anti To-Do List Concept: Creating a "not to do" list can be just as beneficial as a to-do list. Identifying behaviours and activities that hinder progress can help individuals avoid distractions and focus on what truly matters.
Self-Reflection: Taking the time to analyse personal habits and behaviors can lead to greater self-awareness. This process can reveal patterns that may be detrimental to success, allowing for necessary adjustments.
Two-Column Method: Dividing a page into two columns—one for positive actions and another for negative behaviours—can provide clarity. This visual representation helps in recognising what works and what doesn’t, facilitating better decision-making.
Actionable Steps: To implement these ideas, one should set aside time to reflect, write, and evaluate their habits. This exercise encourages accountability and can lead to significant improvements in personal and professional life.

BEST MOMENTS

"Remember, guys, the bluntest pencil is better than the sharpest memory."

"If you really want to know how it is you're messing up your life and letting your inner moron drive the bus, do this today. I dare you."

"Column A is putting a bigger engine in your Ferrari. Column B is taking the brakes off it."

"It's painful to drag your own stupidity and your own failings out on paper because you can't deny them anymore."

"The upside is that there's nowhere to hide. If you really, really want to know how you're screwing yourself up, make yourself a nice cup of tea."

VALUABLE RESOURCES

HOST BIO

Why Unconventional Wins

Mon, 24 Feb 2025 01:00:00 -0000

Neil delves into the challenges of traditional guitar teaching methods, highlighting the staggering 90% quit rate among learners. Drawing from his 26 years of experience, Neil advocates for an unconventional approach to teaching that prioritises what truly matters for students rather than adhering to outdated norms. He emphasises the importance of questioning established practices and seeking more effective, engaging methods to foster student success. By sharing his personal journey of overcoming frustration and failure, Neil encourages educators to embrace innovation and break free from conventional wisdom, ultimately aiming to create a more impactful and enjoyable learning experience for their students.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Challenge Conventional Methods: Traditional teaching methods for guitar often lead to high quit rates among students, with some sources citing a 90% failure rate in the first year. This indicates that these methods may not be effective and need to be re-evaluated.
Focus on High Utility Learning: Instead of adhering to conventional wisdom, prioritise learning the most useful concepts and techniques first. This approach can lead to more effective teaching and better student engagement.
Ask Hard Questions: Reflecting on one's teaching methods and asking difficult questions about effectiveness and efficiency can lead to significant improvements in teaching practices.
Embrace Unconventional Approaches: Progress in any field often comes from those who are willing to think outside the box and challenge the status quo. Embracing unconventional ideas can lead to breakthroughs in teaching and learning.
Engage with Students Honestly: Being transparent with students about the challenges they may face in learning can foster a more honest and supportive learning environment, rather than perpetuating ineffective methods that lead to student frustration and dropout.

BEST MOMENTS

"The quit rate for guitar learners is ridiculously high... a magazine that purports to help guitarists proudly touts this 90% quit rate figure."

"If a method of teaching or learning produces a 90% failure rate, it can only produce a 10% success rate. It's therefore abundantly obvious that the method must be ineffective."

"Taking the unconventional approach has worked for me, and it's worked for the countless students I've been blessed to teach for over a quarter of a century."

"Imagine meeting a new student and telling them... this is the route we'll follow. It'll give you probably a 1 in 10 chance of success."

"Are you brave enough to be unconventional? Bold enough to break the rules? To move the limits?"

VALUABLE RESOURCES

HOST BIO

Make it Obvious

Mon, 17 Feb 2025 01:00:00 -0000

Neil shares a simple yet powerful strategy for maximising productivity during unallocated free time. Drawing from his 26 years of experience in the tutoring and coaching business, Neil discusses how he transformed blank spaces in his planner into vibrant, attention-grabbing yellow highlights. This visual cue not only helped him recognise opportunities for productive activities but also shifted his mindset about free time. He encourages listeners to try this technique in their own planners and invites them to share their strategies for managing chaos in their lives.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Utilising Free Time Effectively: Highlighting unallocated free time in a planner can transform blank spaces into opportunities for productivity, making it easier to identify and utilise that time.
Visual Cues for Planning: Using a bright color, like yellow, to mark free time creates a visual signal that draws attention to those periods, encouraging proactive planning and action.
Importance of Planning: Having a structured plan (Plan A and Plan B) is crucial for maintaining productivity and avoiding distractions, such as mindless activities like watching YouTube.
Personal Reflection and Improvement: Regularly revisiting and reflecting on past experiences and strategies can lead to new insights and improvements in managing time and tasks.
Community Engagement: Sharing strategies and experiences with others can foster a sense of community and provide new ideas for managing chaos and improving productivity.

BEST MOMENTS

"If you want to make more money and make more of a difference, The Tutor Podcast will be with you every step of the way."

"What I realised is I do all sorts of things which didn't help me towards my goal in that vacant space, that free time."

"The highlighted areas suddenly became look at me, there's something you can do here; this is your opportunity."

"Try this simple highlighter idea for yourself and let me know if it works for you too."

"I know I don't have all the answers. So let me know what you think."

VALUABLE RESOURCES

HOST BIO

The Lost Art of Silence

Mon, 10 Feb 2025 01:00:00 -0000

Neil Cameron explores the transformative power of silence and its impact on productivity and clarity. Drawing from his 26 years of experience in the tutoring and coaching business, Neil shares practical strategies for minimising distractions in our hyper-connected world. He emphasises the importance of disconnecting from electronic devices and creating a quiet space to reflect, plan, and solve problems. By encouraging listeners to embrace moments of silence, Neil illustrates how this practice can lead to clearer thinking, better decision-making, and the discovery of hidden opportunities. Tune in for actionable insights that can help you start, grow, and love your tutoring business.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Embrace Silence for Clarity: Taking time away from distractions, such as phones and electronic devices, allows for clearer thinking and better problem-solving. Silence can help in organising thoughts and generating ideas.
Create a Distraction-Free Environment: To maximise focus, turn off all electronic devices, including phones, TVs, and radios. Consider physically distancing yourself from these distractions to enhance concentration.
Write to Process Thoughts: Engaging in writing during quiet time can help clarify issues and generate solutions. Writing down problems and potential solutions can lead to insights that may not surface in a noisy environment.
Challenge the Fear of Missing Out: Many people feel anxious about being away from their phones or disconnected from the internet. Recognising this conditioned response is essential to overcoming it and benefiting from periods of silence.
Regularly Schedule Quiet Time: Incorporating silence into daily routines can lead to improved productivity and creativity. Setting aside dedicated time for reflection and planning can help transform perceived problems into opportunities.

BEST MOMENTS

"What I find is I just get more and more focused and the vague issues and ideas that I had just get clearer and clearer."

"Ideas and insights are shy beasts and they only tend to show up when we give them a quiet place in which they can whisper to us."

"Get yourself silent. Get rid of the phone. Turn off the TV. Turn off the radio. Get silent and write down what your biggest challenge is in life or business."

"Most people won't do this. They say it's weird to be away from the phone. Some people have actually told me it makes them anxious and insecure to be away from the phone."

"If you're smarter than me, I should probably be listening to you rather than the other way around."

VALUABLE RESOURCES

HOST BIO

Teaching Old Dogs

Mon, 03 Feb 2025 01:00:00 -0000

Neil explores the common misconceptions surrounding adult learners, particularly the belief that they are harder to teach than children. Drawing from his 25 years of experience in the tutoring business, Neil emphasises the value of older students, who often bring a wealth of life experience and a strong desire to learn. He discusses the concept of neuroplasticity and how the brain continues to evolve, allowing individuals of all ages to acquire new skills. With a focus on rekindling curiosity and fun in learning, Neil encourages educators to leverage the unique strengths of adult learners, ultimately arguing that teaching adults can be more rewarding and effective than teaching children.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Age is Not a Barrier to Learning: Many older students question whether they are too old to learn new skills, such as playing an instrument. However, the ability to learn persists throughout life, and older individuals often bring a wealth of experience that can enhance their learning process.
Neuroplasticity and Lifelong Learning: The brain is capable of constant renewal and regeneration, allowing individuals of all ages to learn and develop new skills. Neuroplasticity, which includes both structural and functional changes in the brain, supports the idea that learning is a lifelong journey.
Experience as an Asset: Older learners often have extensive life experiences that can aid their learning. They have developed skills through various roles in their lives, such as being parents or professionals, which can be leveraged in the learning process.
Teaching Adults vs. Children: Teaching adults can be easier than teaching children because adults tend to have more organised thought processes and routines. Engaging adults requires rekindling their curiosity and sense of fun, allowing them to rediscover their potential for learning.
Musical Training and Cognitive Benefits: Engaging in musical training has specific cognitive benefits that can enhance brain function. Research indicates that musicians exhibit structural differences in their brains compared to non-musicians, suggesting that musical training can lead to positive changes in brain physiology and cognitive abilities.

BEST MOMENTS

"Am I too old to learn to play? Well, my God, how many times am I going to hear that question?"

"I think that's a complete load of bobbins. I'm always learning. I'm 60 this year. Happy days."

"Every day is a school day, except they're better than school days because the student gets to choose the subject and select the teacher."

"The brain is a trembling web of connections that's constantly morphing and reconsidering itself."

"Are grown-ups easier to teach than kids are? I say yes they are."

VALUABLE RESOURCES

HOST BIO

It's all about the cake

Mon, 27 Jan 2025 01:00:00 -0000

Neil explores the importance of identifying and prioritising personal values for success in tutoring, teaching, or coaching businesses. Drawing from his extensive experience, Neil shares insights on how a clear understanding of one's core values can alleviate the overwhelm of opportunities and guide decision-making. He emphasises the significance of recognising what truly matters—like family, honesty, and professional integrity—over material gains. By using the metaphor of cake, Neil encourages listeners to focus on building a solid foundation of values before seeking the "icing" of financial success and other perks. This episode is a thought-provoking exploration of how aligning actions with values can lead to a more fulfilling and purposeful career.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Identify Your Values: Understanding your core values is crucial for making decisions and navigating opportunities. Take time to reflect on what is truly important to you.
Prioritise Your Values: It's not just about knowing your values; it's essential to order them correctly. Your highest value should serve as the foundation for all other values, guiding your choices and actions.
Self-Reflection Questions: To clarify your values, ask yourself why each value is important to you. Continue this questioning process until you reach a point of clarity about your deepest values.
Distinguish Between Cake and Icing: Your highest values represent the "cake" of your life, while other desires and goals are the "icing." Focus on building a strong foundation (the cake) before seeking additional rewards (the icing).
Commit to Your Values: Recognize that certain opportunities may not align with your highest values. Be prepared to turn down lucrative offers if they compromise what you hold most dear, ensuring that your actions reflect your true priorities.

BEST MOMENTS

"Every day, my friend has lots of opportunities... it means he has to endure the agony of overwhelm of opportunity."

"Values are like the building blocks of a house. Your highest value is the foundation upon which every other block is laid."

"If I'm presented with an opportunity to do something a bit shady... I just ask myself, if Alex found out I did this thing, what would he think?"

"When your values are disordered, your life will feel like a battlefield."

"Those deeply held highest values, the ones you'll never compromise. They're your cake. The other things, well, they're the icing and the sprinkles on the top of that cake."

VALUABLE RESOURCES

HOST BIO

Awesome Special Missions

Mon, 20 Jan 2025 01:00:00 -0000

Join Neil as he explores the art of communication for teachers, tutors, and coaches. He emphasises the importance of language as a powerful tool for conveying ideas and building rapport with students. Neil shares insights from his 25 years of experience, highlighting how playful and creative language can enhance learning experiences. He discusses techniques such as using catchphrases, storytelling, and even surprising language to engage students effectively. Throughout the episode, Neil encourages educators to be mindful of their word choices, tone, and body language, ultimately aiming to make learning enjoyable and impactful.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Mastering Communication: Effective communication is essential for teachers, coaches, and tutors. The words used are tools that can significantly impact how ideas are conveyed and received by students.
Playfulness with Language: Language should be treated as a playground. By being creative and flexible with words, educators can tailor their messages to better engage students and enhance understanding.
Catchphrases and Memorable Phrases: Developing unique catchphrases can help make concepts stick in students' minds. Using memorable imagery and humour can also aid in retention and make learning more enjoyable.
The Power of Tone and Body Language: Non-verbal communication, including tone of voice and body language, plays a crucial role in how messages are perceived. The same words can have different impacts depending on how they are delivered.
Encouraging Fun in Learning: Making learning enjoyable is key. By framing tasks in a fun and engaging way, such as suggesting students "grin like a maniac" while practicing, educators can foster a positive learning environment that encourages participation and creativity.

BEST MOMENTS

"The words that we use are our tools; they are the way in which we can wrap ideas up, insert them into the minds of our students, and allow them to receive our wisdom."

"A carefully crafted phrase can turn a situation around from meh to marvellous."

"If you can get them to acknowledge it was less bad, you can then say, well, less bad actually means better."

"Tell them you've got to do something. Really? Most of my lot, the minute you tell them they've got to do something, they're going to start to push back."

"If it ain't fun, we ain't doing it."

VALUABLE RESOURCES

HOST BIO

Environment V Will Power

Mon, 13 Jan 2025 01:00:00 -0000

Neil talks about the importance of creating a supportive environment for personal and professional growth. He emphasises that environment is more effective than willpower in driving positive change, as willpower can wane over time. Neil discusses how to optimise various aspects of life, including home, workspace, leisure, and social circles, to foster behaviors that lead to desired outcomes. He encourages listeners to design their surroundings to reflect their values, eliminate distractions like television, and surround themselves with uplifting people. By making life a game and transforming one's environment into a playground, Neil believes that individuals can achieve significant improvements in their lives with less effort. Tune in for practical tips and insights that can help you start, grow, and love your tutoring business while enhancing your overall well-being.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Environment Over Willpower: Creating a supportive environment is more effective for achieving change than relying solely on willpower, which can wear out over time. A well-structured environment can help maintain motivation and productivity.
Design Your Spaces: Both home and workspace should be organised and reflect personal values. This includes having a designated place for everything, ensuring cleanliness, and incorporating elements that inspire and motivate.
Incorporate Fun and Fitness: Leisure activities and fitness should be prioritised in daily routines. Making them easily accessible in your environment encourages participation and enjoyment, rather than fitting them in after other responsibilities.
Eliminate Negative Influences: Remove toxic elements from your life, including unhealthy food, substances, and negative people. Surrounding yourself with uplifting individuals and positive influences can significantly improve mental well-being.
Make Life a Game: Approach life with a playful mindset by designing your environment to encourage positive behaviors. This can lead to better outcomes without the need for constant willpower, making life feel more enjoyable and manageable.

BEST MOMENTS

"Environment is superior to will. Simple as that. You see willpower wears out... whereas your environment stays the same unless you do something to change it."

"Get rid of the bad food. Throw it away. You rationalise. You say, I paid for it. Well, great. You paid for it with money. Why pay for it with your physique as well?"

"Make life into a game, and make your environment, your world, into your playground."

"Remember that in life there are fountains and there are drains. Avoid the drains, get around the fountains."

"Throwing out my TV was probably the smartest thing I've ever done. So I dare you to go a week without television."

VALUABLE RESOURCES

HOST BIO

Free Introductory Sessions

Mon, 06 Jan 2025 01:00:00 -0000

Neil returns after a holiday break to share his insights on the importance of offering free introductory sessions for new students. Drawing from his 25 years of experience in the tutoring business, Neil discusses how these sessions not only eliminate risks for potential clients but also allow him to connect with students on a deeper level. He emphasises the benefits of positioning himself as an expert, fostering meaningful relationships, and ensuring a good fit between himself and his students. With a blend of personal anecdotes and practical advice, Neil encourages fellow tutors to embrace generosity in their practices, ultimately leading to a more fulfilling and successful tutoring experience.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Free Introductory Sessions: Offering free introductory sessions is a strategic way to eliminate risks for potential students, allowing them to experience the value of the service without any financial commitment. This approach can lead to more paying students in the long run.
Building Relationships: The initial free session helps in establishing a connection with new students, many of whom can become long-term clients, friends, or business partners. This relationship-building is seen as a vital part of the tutoring process.
Self-Reflection and Improvement: Taking breaks, such as during the Christmas and New Year period, provides an opportunity to reflect on the business, its direction, and the value offered through the podcast and tutoring services.
Eliminating Poor Fits: The importance of identifying and eliminating students who may not be a good fit is emphasised. This helps ensure that time is spent with individuals who are genuinely interested and compatible, leading to a more fulfilling teaching experience.
Sense of Abundance: Developing a mindset of abundance rather than scarcity can enhance the tutoring experience. By giving away free sessions, it fosters a positive outlook that can attract more students and create a more enjoyable working environment.

BEST MOMENTS

"I want to eliminate them from my enquiries if they're not a good fit for me."

"If his free stuff is this good, his paid stuff will be amazing. And of course, it is amazing."

"I like to think I'm giving something away. It's good for society. It's not charity."

"I could charge, but I don't. This is so that there is no risks for the student."

"I love free intros. It's where I meet the newest members of my tribe."

VALUABLE RESOURCES

HOST BIO

Brutal Self Honesty

Mon, 16 Dec 2024 01:00:00 -0000

Neil talks about the critical importance of brutal self-honesty in achieving personal and business goals. Building on the previous discussion about goal-setting, Neil emphasises that without an honest assessment of one's actions and results, success is nearly impossible. He shares his own method of tracking daily activities through a simple tick box system, which helps him stay accountable and motivated. Throughout the episode, Neil poses thought-provoking questions to encourage listeners to confront their realities and eliminate self-deception. He advocates for a no-nonsense approach to self-evaluation, urging listeners to embrace the discomfort that comes with honesty in order to foster growth and improvement in their tutoring, teaching, or coaching businesses.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Brutal Self-Honesty is Essential: To effectively assess and improve your situation, it's crucial to be brutally honest with yourself about your actions and results. This self-assessment is necessary for personal and business growth.
Focus on Process-Based Goals: Instead of solely concentrating on long-term outcomes, prioritise daily process-based goals. These smaller, actionable tasks contribute to achieving larger objectives over time.
Measurement and Accountability: Implement a measurement system to track your progress. Using a simple tick box system can help you hold yourself accountable and provide a sense of achievement when you complete tasks.
Ask Tough Questions: Engage in self-reflection by asking challenging questions that can reveal uncomfortable truths about your behaviour and choices. This can lead to valuable insights and necessary changes.
Embrace Reality: Acknowledge the reality of your situation without delusion. Understanding the truth about your circumstances is vital for making informed decisions and avoiding confusion in the face of failure.

BEST MOMENTS

"If you can't honestly assess a situation, how on earth can you fix it?"

"Brutal self-honesty is just being strong enough to hold yourself to account to yourself."

"Ask yourself what part you played in that downfall."

"Do not sugarcoat failure. Do not lie to yourself and do not make excuses."

"Start ticking your own boxes and notice how life's changing for you."

VALUABLE RESOURCES

HOST BIO

New Year, New You

Mon, 09 Dec 2024 01:00:00 -0000

Neil dives into the importance of goal setting as we approach the New Year. He shares his personal approach to setting long-term goals, emphasising the value of thinking big with a 15-year vision while breaking it down into manageable milestones over 10, 5, and 1-year periods. Neil discusses the significance of writing down goals, the compounding nature of success, and the necessity of taking actionable steps to achieve desired outcomes. He encourages listeners to visualise their future, create a compelling vision, and commit to their goals daily, all while maintaining a sense of control over their lives. This episode is packed with practical insights and strategies to help tutors, teachers, and coaches start, grow, and love their businesses in the coming year.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Set Long-Term Goals: Establish 15-year goals to think big and envision a fulfilling future. This allows for a broader perspective on what can be achieved over time, as success compounds.
Write Down Your Goals: Documenting goals significantly increases the likelihood of achieving them. Writing helps clarify thoughts and reinforces commitment to those goals.
Break Goals into Milestones: Decompose long-term goals into shorter milestones (10-year, 5-year, and 1-year goals) to create a clear pathway and actionable steps towards achieving the ultimate vision.
Daily and Weekly Planning: Implement a structured approach to daily and weekly tasks by setting specific actions that align with monthly and quarterly goals. This helps maintain focus and ensures progress.
Review and Optimise Regularly: Continuously assess progress and refine strategies. Regular reflection on what works and what doesn’t is crucial for ongoing improvement and maintaining a sense of control over one’s life and goals.

BEST MOMENTS

"Not many people set goals. Maybe this is why not many people are successful in their own view."

"Success and failure are both compounding. The results of today will act upon results for tomorrow."

"If you want to use timelining for the future process, go to episode 327. I do timelining in some detail there."

"Happy people tend to have goals for their days, for their months and for their years, rather than just drift along going with the flow."

"Imagine, dream and write. Create your compelling vision for how you want to live, who you want to be and how you want to spend the next 15 years of your life."

VALUABLE RESOURCES

HOST BIO

Christmas Time Again!

Mon, 02 Dec 2024 01:00:00 -0000

Neil reflects on the year as it approaches the holiday season, encouraging listeners to take control of their time and plans during this busy period. He emphasises the importance of creating a structured plan for the Christmas holidays rather than drifting aimlessly into the festivities. Neil shares his personal experiences of past holiday seasons filled with stress and lack of direction, contrasting them with his current approach of using a detailed planner to maximise productivity and personal enjoyment. He invites listeners to consider their own plans, urging them to prioritise their happiness and well-being amidst the chaos of family gatherings and holiday obligations.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Plan Your Holiday Period: Instead of drifting into the holiday season without a plan, create a structured schedule for both work and downtime. This helps reduce stress and increases productivity.
Reflect on the Year: Take time to evaluate your highs and lows from the past year. Consider what you want to achieve in the upcoming year and how you can make the most of your time during the holidays.
Utilise Downtime Wisely: Use the holiday break to tackle tasks that you may not have time for during the regular teaching schedule, such as cleaning, maintenance, or planning future projects.
Prioritise Personal Enjoyment: Make sure to plan activities that you enjoy during the holiday season, rather than conforming to others' expectations. This ensures that you have a fulfilling and enjoyable time.
Engage with Your Community: Encourage listeners to share their plans and ideas, fostering a sense of community and support among those in the tutoring and teaching business.

BEST MOMENTS

"Have you made proper plans for the holiday period? This feels like a run on from last episode where I said build your day on paper first."

"Don't leave it to chance and go with the flow. It's a far better idea to plan ahead and create a meaningful Christmas period on your own terms."

"There are going to be very high levels of stress... a spike in domestic violence, alcohol-related incidents and a growth of enormous spending."

"While everyone else is slumped in their chair, bloaty with turkey... I'll probably be doing something way more interesting to me."

VALUABLE RESOURCES

HOST BIO

Build It On Paper First

Mon, 25 Nov 2024 01:00:00 -0000

Neil focuses on the crucial topic of personal organisation and time management for tutors, teachers, and coaches. Drawing from his extensive experience in business and education, Neil emphasises the importance of planning your day to reduce stress and enhance productivity. He shares his own journey with time management, including the use of a simple paper diary with Plan A and Plan B columns to adapt to changing circumstances. Neil encourages listeners to perform a "brain dump" of their thoughts and tasks to better manage their time and responsibilities, ultimately leading to improved sleep and reduced stress.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Importance of Personal Organisation: A lack of personal organisation is a common issue among tutors, teachers, and coaches, which can lead to increased stress and decreased success. Planning and managing time effectively is crucial for achieving goals.
Daily Planning Strategy: Utilising a paper diary with two columns (Plan A and Plan B) can help individuals prepare for different scenarios throughout the day. This method allows for flexibility and ensures that there are alternative activities ready if plans change.
Brain Dump Technique: Performing a brain dump of all tasks and thoughts can help clear mental clutter. This technique allows individuals to categorise tasks as do, ditch, or delegate, leading to better sleep, reduced stress, and increased productivity.
Preference for Paper Over Digital: While digital tools are popular, using a paper planner can be more effective for some. It provides a tangible way to track tasks, reduces distractions from technology, and offers a satisfying sense of accomplishment when tasks are physically checked off.
Encouragement of Communication: Engaging with others about their organisational strategies can provide new insights and methods. Sharing experiences and techniques can foster a community of support and improvement among tutors and educators.

BEST MOMENTS

"Controlling your own personal environment and your time isn't really covered in schools or universities... it seems to be a clear differentiator between highly stressed and people who were not stressed at all."

"Time is your most precious resource. And why wouldn't you plan to use wisely your most precious resource?"

"I always ask clients or students what plans they have for their days. It turns out that almost none of them do."

"I think it's a massive bonus. Now, I've shared my own organiser pages with lots of people over the years, and it's certainly helped them to get their schmuzzle together."

"If I can get addicted to doing good stuff, I'll take that."

VALUABLE RESOURCES

HOST BIO

Know Your Numbers

Mon, 18 Nov 2024 01:00:00 -0000

Neil dives into the crucial topic of understanding your business finances, emphasising the importance of knowing your numbers. Drawing from his 25 years of experience, Neil shares insights on the difference between turnover and profit, highlighting common pitfalls that many business owners face, such as mistaking revenue for actual earnings. He provides practical advice on managing expenses, including deductions for home office costs, travel, insurance, and training, all aimed at reducing taxable income.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Understand Your Numbers: It's crucial for business owners, especially tutors, to know the difference between turnover (revenue) and profit. Many mistakenly equate the two, which can lead to financial confusion and unexpected tax bills.
Track All Expenses: Keeping a detailed record of all business-related expenses is essential. This includes costs for teaching premises, travel, insurance, training, and equipment. Deductions can significantly reduce taxable income.
Utilize Tax Deductions: Various expenses, such as home office costs, travel expenses, and professional development, can be deducted from taxable income. This can lead to lower tax bills and even potential rebates if losses occur.
Invest in Professional Help: Hiring a good accountant can save money in the long run. A competent accountant can help navigate tax laws and ensure that all allowable deductions are claimed, potentially saving thousands in taxes.
Plan for Losses: If transitioning from a day job to self-employment, losses from a new venture can be offset against income from a day job, potentially resulting in a tax rebate. Understanding this can provide financial relief during the early stages of a business.

BEST MOMENTS

"There's an old saying in the county that turnover is vanity, profit is sanity. And it is true."

"If you don't know you're allowed to deduct these from your sales volume, you're probably paying for these out of post-tax pounds."

"Remember that good accountant? Well, she's the deductible expense too."

"Your duty is to pay only as much tax as is required in law. There's no moral high ground in overpaying tax."

"If you know your numbers and you know the rules of the game, well, your chances of winning the game go up significantly."

VALUABLE RESOURCES

HOST BIO

The Great Communist Budget and Labour's Lies

Mon, 11 Nov 2024 01:00:00 -0000

Neil delivers a passionate analysis of the recent budget announced by Chancellor Rachel Reeves, critiquing its implications for working people and businesses. He argues that the budget is politically motivated, laden with hidden tax increases that disproportionately affect those who strive for financial independence and success. Neil highlights various measures, including the introduction of inheritance tax on pensions, increased national insurance contributions for employers, and rising costs for homeownership, all of which he views as detrimental to the working class. Throughout the episode, he emphasises the need for individuals to protect their hard-earned assets from what he perceives as a government intent on redistributing wealth under the guise of social responsibility.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Political Budget vs. Financial Budget: The recent budget is characterised as a political maneuver rather than a genuine financial strategy, aimed at redistributing wealth from those who typically do not support Labour to those who do.
Increased Tax Burdens: The budget introduces various tax increases, including inheritance tax on pensions, higher national insurance contributions for employers, and frozen thresholds for income tax and ISAs, which disproportionately affect working people.
Impact on Home Ownership: Changes to stamp duty and right-to-buy discounts are expected to make home ownership less affordable, further burdening working individuals and families.
Wage Policies and Automation: The planned increase in the national minimum wage is seen as a catalyst for employers to turn to automation and artificial intelligence, potentially leading to job losses and reduced pay raises for workers.
Call to Action: There is a strong emphasis on the need for individuals to take proactive steps to protect their financial interests and assets from government policies perceived as detrimental, encouraging listeners to seek professional advice and develop protective strategies.

BEST MOMENTS

"The Chancellor, Rachel Reeves, barefaced lied to the public about no increasing taxes for working people."

"This budget is designed to move the money from the pockets of people who wouldn't normally vote Labour into the pockets of people who would vote Labour."

"They've declared war on financial responsibility by upping government borrowing, trapping the UK in a doom loop of increasing debt repayments."

"This is just another tax on working people. Thank you, Ms Reeves. Another lie."

"The government don't care about you. They only care about what you have and what they can get from you."

VALUABLE RESOURCES

HOST BIO

The Budget and The Rules

Mon, 04 Nov 2024 01:00:00 -0000

Neil dives into the upcoming UK budget, offering insights and analysis relevant to small business owners, tutors, and educators. With a critical eye on the current Labour government's policies, Neil discusses potential tax changes that could impact employers, employees, and entrepreneurs alike. He predicts increases in national insurance contributions, changes to stamp duty on second homes, and possible hikes in capital gains and inheritance taxes. Throughout the episode, Neil emphasises the importance of understanding the evolving tax landscape and encourages listeners to prepare for the financial implications of these changes. As always, he aims to provide practical advice and provoke thought, inviting listeners to share their own opinions and reactions.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Budget Predictions: The upcoming budget is expected to have a strong anti-business sentiment, potentially leading to increased employers' national insurance contributions, which could push businesses towards automation and result in job losses.
Impact on Working People: While the government may freeze employees' national insurance contributions to appear supportive of working people, they might lower the threshold for contributions, affecting lower-paid workers.
Increased Taxes on Investments: There are predictions of hikes in stamp duty for second homes and investment properties, as well as potential increases in capital gains tax, which could rise significantly from the current flat rate.
Pension Taxation Changes: The government may impose higher taxes on pension withdrawals and could change the status of pension funds in estates, making them subject to inheritance tax, which would affect business owners and entrepreneurs.
Excise Duties on Alcohol and Tobacco: A rise in duties on alcohol and tobacco products is anticipated, continuing the trend of increasing taxes on pleasurable goods, which could lead to higher costs for consumers.

BEST MOMENTS

"We all operate within the tax system, and frankly, we're bloody fools if we try and opt out of it."

"Labour's promise to protect working people means that there'll be a strong anti-business vibe to the budget."

"I think we can expect this hike to be jacked up even more, or brought forward, or possibly both."

"If you drink, you can expect a small rise in the cost of your pleasures."

"Labour have already signalled they're going to raid the pensions of anyone who's trying to provide for their retirement."

VALUABLE RESOURCES

HOST BIO

Be More Nina

Mon, 28 Oct 2024 01:00:00 -0000

Neil shares an insightful conversation about the importance of defining one's own version of "normal." Through a personal story involving a friend named Nina, who chose to forgo a luxury vacation in favour of activities that truly bring her joy, Neil emphasises the value of making choices that align with individual values rather than societal expectations. He encourages listeners to embrace their unique preferences and to opt out of conventional norms that do not resonate with them. This episode serves as a reminder to prioritise personal happiness and fulfilment, challenging the notion that one must conform to what is deemed "normal" by others.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Embrace Your Own Normal: It's important to define what "normal" means for you personally, rather than conforming to societal expectations. Everyone has different values and priorities, and it's okay to prioritise what makes you happy.
Value Your Choices: Making decisions based on what is truly important to you, even if it goes against the grain, is a sign of rational thinking. Choosing to stay home and engage in activities you love is a valid and brave choice.
Reject Societal Pressure: Opting out of societal norms may lead to being labelled as selfish, but it can also earn you respect from those who wish they could do the same. Your happiness should come first, and it's essential to live by your own rules.
Focus on Personal Fulfillment: Fill your life with activities and people that matter to you. Other people's opinions should not dictate your choices; prioritise your own happiness and values.
Encourage Authenticity: Be more like Nina—embrace your unique preferences and choices. By doing so, you not only enhance your own life but also inspire others to pursue their own version of happiness.

BEST MOMENTS

"You chose to do what's most important to you, despite that not being what most people would do."

"Deciding to stay home in your own idea of heaven is a rational choice."

"Normal is what most people do most of the time. Normal may be grim, uninspiring and generally a fun-free zone."

"I know your ideal day absolutely doesn't involve flopping around like a wet fish around a pool."

"Your first duty is to yourself and your values. Everyone else is of secondary importance."

VALUABLE RESOURCES

HOST BIO

Spoiling Magic

Mon, 21 Oct 2024 00:00:00 -0000

Neil explores the concept of "spoiling magic" in the context of teaching music, particularly guitar. He discusses the allure of guitar heroes and the myths surrounding their extraordinary abilities, emphasising the importance of dismantling these illusions for students. By breaking down the perceived supernatural skills of iconic musicians like Slash and Eddie Van Halen, Neil aims to empower learners to recognise that mastery comes from practice and process, not magic.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Demystifying Talent: The idea of "natural talent" is often a myth; success in music or any skill comes from consistent practice and process rather than inherent ability. Everyone starts as a beginner.
Breaking Down Illusions: It's essential to shatter the illusion of superhuman abilities in admired performers. By doing so, students can realise that their idols were once beginners too, making their goals seem more attainable.
Teaching Methodology: Effective teaching involves simplifying complex skills into manageable steps, allowing students to progress gradually and build confidence in their abilities.
The Role of Performance: While it's important to teach the technical aspects of a skill, it's equally crucial to show students how to present their skills in a way that appears impressive, blending technique with performance art.
Encouraging Persistence: The journey from novice to proficient requires hard work and dedication. Students should embrace their initial struggles, as everyone experiences challenges along the way to mastery.

BEST MOMENTS

"As long as a student thinks that Slash or Eddie or Brian... are doing something supernatural, their limits and their beliefs about themselves... can't allow that to happen."

"Spoiling magic, as far as I can tell, is an occupational obligation. We have a duty to make things plain and simple and to be brutally honest."

"The assumption of magic is that people can't see the vapour trail of their favourite performer from being a complete lump on the instrument from day one to where they are now."

"If I don't do that, they're never going to believe that it's possible for them because they won't realize that Hendrix and Satriani... were once absolute beginners too."

"Nothing is as proverbial as unrealized genius. And I think talent is a myth. It's a lazy shortcut of a word."

VALUABLE RESOURCES

HOST BIO

The Endless Game of Helping People - Why 1 to 1 Never Gets Old

Mon, 14 Oct 2024 00:00:00 -0000

Neil reflects on his 25-year journey as a private guitar tutor, sharing insights on the pivotal decisions that shaped his career and life. He emphasises the importance of taking risks and pursuing passions, highlighting how small choices can lead to significant opportunities. Neil discusses the deeper emotional needs of his students, recognising that their desire to learn often stems from personal struggles. He underscores the rewarding nature of one-on-one teaching, where meaningful connections are formed, and lives are transformed.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Embrace Opportunities: Reflecting on pivotal decisions, such as starting to teach guitar, highlights the importance of seiing opportunities that can lead to significant life changes and personal fulfilment.
Life's Regrets: Many people regret not pursuing their passions or trying new things rather than regretting actions they took. It's essential to take risks and explore what truly makes you happy.
Teaching as a Lifelong Journey: Teaching is portrayed as an endless game without a finish line, where both the teacher and student continuously learn and grow. This perspective keeps the experience fresh and engaging.
Personal Connection: One-on-one teaching fosters a unique bond between the tutor and student, making lessons a special time for both parties. This personal interaction is often more rewarding than teaching larger groups.
Impact Beyond Skills: The role of a tutor extends beyond imparting technical skills; it involves helping students navigate their personal challenges and emotional wounds, ultimately leading to transformative experiences in their lives.

BEST MOMENTS

"Those decisions that we make are just the hinges in life. They swing open big doors. They open escape routes of opportunity."

"I don't want to lay down to die someday and think, I wish I'd done that, about anything."

"Teaching and helping my students is my game. It's a game with no end."

"Every single individual is damaged and hurting, but in slightly different ways."

"Imagine if schools made their pupils feel that way about being in class. What a revolution that'd be."

VALUABLE RESOURCES

HOST BIO

Push-Pull Motivators Part Two

Mon, 07 Oct 2024 00:00:00 -0000

In this episode, Neil explores the concept of motivation, specifically focusing on the distinction between "away from" and "towards" motivation. Building on the last episode's discussion, Neil emphasises the importance of creating a compelling vision for the future that draws you towards your goals, rather than merely escaping undesirable situations. He encourages listeners to vividly imagine their ideal life and to document at least 100 positive reasons for taking action to achieve that vision. This episode serves as a motivational guide, urging tutors, teachers, and coaches to harness the power of a clear and inspiring future to propel their businesses forward.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Motivational Direction: Understanding the difference between "away from" motivation (escaping undesirable situations) and "towards" motivation (moving towards desired goals) is crucial for sustained action and growth.
Compelling Vision: Creating a vivid and detailed vision of your future life is essential. This vision should encompass how you want your life to look, feel, and be, serving as a powerful motivator that draws you forward.
Daily Revisit: Regularly revisiting and refining your vision helps maintain focus and encourages consistent action towards achieving your goals.
Personal Reflection: Writing down at least 100 positive reasons for taking action can clarify your motivations and help you understand what truly matters to you, beyond societal expectations of success.
Life by Design: Emphasising the importance of designing your life according to your own values and desires, rather than conforming to external pressures, leads to a more fulfilling and authentic existence.

BEST MOMENTS

"Motivation away from something is a great starter to action, but it rapidly falls off once you've escaped from the unpleasant thing."

"Build yourself a compelling vision of your future, of how things will look, feel, smell, taste and sound, when everything is perfect and when you've achieved your goals."

"What you're concerned with is your life. Not what everybody else thinks is a good way to spend the rest of your days on this spinning ball of mud."

"I designed a life to suit myself and my own personal pleasures and passions. I imagined a compelling vision of a future life that I'd love to live."

"This exercise helps you to clarify your reasons why you're even thinking about life, business and your future at all."

VALUABLE RESOURCES

HOST BIO

Movers and Moti

Mon, 30 Sep 2024 00:00:00 -0000

Neil talks about the concept of human motivation through the lens of "away from" and "towards" movements. Drawing on his 15 years of experience as a certified NLP practitioner, Neil explains how these two motivational systems influence our actions. He shares a vivid thought experiment that illustrates the urgency of escaping discomfort while also highlighting the importance of having a clear vision of what we want to achieve. Listeners are encouraged to create a list of potential negative outcomes if they don't take action in their tutoring businesses, using this as a powerful motivator to spur them into action.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Understanding Motivation: Human motivations can be categorised into two types: "away from" (moving away from something undesirable) and "towards" (moving towards something desirable). Both play crucial roles in driving action.
The Power of "Away From" Motivation: This type of motivation can spur immediate action in response to discomfort or pain. It serves as a powerful starter system that can help individuals escape from negative situations.
Transitioning to "Towards" Motivation: Once the immediate crisis is alleviated, the "away from" motivation may lose its effectiveness. It's essential to shift focus towards positive goals and visions to maintain momentum and drive progress.
Practical Exercise: A suggested exercise involves writing down 100 negative outcomes that could occur if one does not take action to grow their business. This list serves as a motivational tool to highlight the urgency of making changes.
Daily Reflection: Reading the list of negative outcomes daily can create a sense of urgency and discomfort, effectively harnessing the power of "away from" motivation to encourage proactive behaviour and decision-making.

BEST MOMENTS

"The immediate away from movement will get you out of trouble. And the towards movement will get you towards what you really, really want."

"That away from motivation is a great spur to fast action. It's life's do this or else threat crisis system."

"The more uncomfortable, scary and gut level you can make it, the more powerful it is."

"If I don't grow and scale my business, then these bad things could happen to me."

"Notice how those two systems work. The away from is the starter motor that got you out from under the tree."

VALUABLE RESOURCES

HOST BIO

Stop It

Mon, 23 Sep 2024 00:00:00 -0000

Neil discusses the importance of evaluating personal habits and recognising what truly works in your tutoring, teaching, or coaching business. Building on the previous episode's theme of exploring unconventional methods for better results, Neil emphasises the necessity of self-reflection and honest assessment. He encourages listeners to regularly ask themselves if their current practices are effective and aligned with their long-term goals. Through personal anecdotes, including his experience with co-owning music shops, Neil illustrates the value of discontinuing unproductive activities to make room for more fulfilling and profitable endeavours. This episode serves as a motivational call to action for educators and coaches to identify and eliminate what doesn't work, ultimately leading to greater success and satisfaction in their professional lives.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Evaluate Your Habits: Regularly take inventory of your habits to determine what is working for you and what isn't. This self-reflection can lead to valuable insights and improvements in your personal and professional life.
Embrace Honest Self-Assessment: When assessing whether something is working, be honest with yourself. The answers you may not want to hear are often the most important ones to pay attention to.
Stop What Doesn't Work: Identify and discontinue activities or habits that are not serving you. This creates space for new opportunities and strategies that may yield better results.
Learn from Experience: Reflect on past experiences, such as the decision to close the music shops, to understand that not all ventures will be fulfilling or profitable. Use these lessons to guide future decisions.
Make Room for Growth: By letting go of unproductive habits or ventures, you open up time and energy to pursue activities that align more closely with your passions and goals, ultimately leading to greater satisfaction and success.

BEST MOMENTS

"When was the last time you actually sat down and took inventory of your own habits? I didn't think so. Most people don't take time out to reflect or self-examine very much."

"The answer you don't like is the answer you must pay most attention to."

"Those uncomfortable no's are a gift, because you now know what not to do in order to make space for what you must do."

"If you don't know what isn't working, you'll probably keep on doing it... which won't leave you the space and time to try something which has a better chance of success."

"Continuing to run the shops was going to burn time. And that was an opportunity cost we were no longer willing to pay."

VALUABLE RESOURCES

HOST BIO

Life on The Edge

Mon, 16 Sep 2024 00:00:00 -0000

Neil shares insights from his extensive experience in the tutoring and teaching business. He recounts a recent session with a seasoned guitar player who, despite decades of experience, struggled with fundamental techniques due to conventional learning methods. Neil emphasises the importance of questioning the mainstream approaches to learning, highlighting that a staggering 90% of guitar learners quit when following traditional routes. He encourages listeners to explore alternative perspectives and disciplines beyond music education to enhance their teaching methods. This episode serves as a call to action for tutors, teachers, and coaches to continuously seek innovative ideas and improve their practices for the benefit of their students.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Questioning the Norm: It's essential to continually ask yourself if your current methods are effective. If they aren't working, explore alternative approaches rather than seeking better versions of a failing scheme.
Common Mistakes in Learning: Many guitar learners struggle due to fundamental errors, such as improper guitar positioning and lack of understanding of chords and scales. These issues can lead to frustration and hinder progress.
High Quit Rates: Approximately 90% of people who start learning guitar through conventional methods end up quitting. This statistic highlights the ineffectiveness of mainstream teaching approaches.
Interdisciplinary Learning: Breakthroughs in teaching and learning often come from fields outside music education, such as physics, psychology, and anthropology. Exploring diverse disciplines can provide valuable insights and improve teaching methods.
Continuous Improvement: There is a duty to look beyond traditional methods and constantly seek new knowledge and techniques. This ongoing quest for improvement can enhance both teaching practices and student experiences.

BEST MOMENTS

"Why would a presumably competent player in his 60s start taking guitar lessons?"

"For 50 years, he's been making life hard for himself... All that heavy finger pressure makes everything harder than it needs to be."

"90% of people who start and pursue the conventional route fail; they quit. That's just insane."

"If what you're doing isn't working... start looking for different."

"We have a duty and a right to look beyond the narrow lane of our discipline."

VALUABLE RESOURCES

HOST BIO

Becoming a Millionaire Guitar Teacher - Part 2

Mon, 09 Sep 2024 00:00:00 -0000

Neil shares the second part in his journey from being a guitar teacher to building a multi-million pound investment property portfolio. He reflects on the pivotal moments that pushed him out of his comfort zone, including a life-changing cycling accident and the realisation that traditional teaching alone wouldn't lead to financial freedom. Neil discusses the importance of understanding net worth, the lessons learned from fellow property investors, and the value of investing in education and mentorship. He emphasises the significance of maintaining a passion for teaching while pursuing financial growth, encouraging listeners to believe in their potential to achieve similar success. Tune in for practical insights and inspiration to help you start, grow, and love your tutoring business.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Understanding Net Worth: Net worth is defined as the value of all assets minus all debts. It's crucial to have a clear understanding of this concept to assess true financial health.
Diversifying Income Streams: Relying solely on face-to-face teaching is limiting. Exploring investment opportunities, such as property, can create additional income streams and enhance financial security.
Learning from Others: Engaging with experienced investors and seeking mentorship can provide valuable insights and help avoid common pitfalls in property investing.
Investing in Education: Spending money on training and courses can be a strategic move to reduce risk and increase knowledge, ultimately leading to better investment decisions.
Maintaining Passion: It's important to balance investment pursuits with personal passions. Success in business should not come at the expense of doing what you love, such as teaching or mentoring others.

BEST MOMENTS

"If I can give you some of what I found useful, maybe you'll find it useful for yourself."

"I realised that to become a millionaire, especially as a guitar teacher, teaching face to face, one to one, was never going to cut it."

"I later realized I was subconsciously putting pressure on myself, making sure that the cost of doing nothing... was so enormous as to terrorize me into action."

"Whatever you do in property, don't do anything that takes you away from that. Because that's somebody else's dream life, and you already have yours."

"It was possible for me and it's possible for you. If I can do it, if I can make this happen for myself, chances are you can do it too."

VALUABLE RESOURCES

HOST BIO

Becoming a Millionaire Guitar Teacher - Part 1

Mon, 02 Sep 2024 00:00:00 -0000

Neil Camerow shares his personal journey from being a guitar teacher to becoming a millionaire property investor. The episode begins with Neil recounting a life-changing bike accident that made him realise the vulnerability of being self-employed. This realisation led him to explore alternative ways of generating income, ultimately leading him to venture into property investment. Neil candidly shares his experiences, mistakes, and successes, emphasising the importance of financial stability and multiple streams of income. The episode ends with a teaser for the next episode where Neil promises to delve deeper into his journey and provide valuable insights for listeners interested in following a similar path.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Diversifying Income Streams: Neil highlights the importance of diversifying income streams by sharing the speaker's experience as a guitar teacher and property investor. This strategy can help individuals generate multiple streams of income and build financial stability.
Learning from Mistakes: Neil emphasises the importance of learning from mistakes in the journey towards financial success. By sharing his own mistakes, Neil aims to help others avoid similar pitfalls and make informed decisions.
Long-Term Financial Planning: Neil underscores the significance of long-term financial planning and the need to make money work for individuals even when they are not actively working. This approach can lead to financial security and independence.
Seeking Alternative Income Sources: Neil's story serves as a reminder to explore alternative income sources beyond traditional employment. By investing in income-producing assets or starting a business, individuals can create additional revenue streams.
Taking Action: Neil encourages listeners to take action towards their financial goals and consider different avenues for wealth creation. By sharing personal experiences and insights, Neil motivates others to pursue their aspirations and build a successful financial future.

BEST MOMENTS

"I want to share my story, how I became a millionaire guitar teacher and property investor over several years from zero to where I am today."

"I want to be really clear that this is not an outline of a get rich quick scheme or an idea and leave that to the internet scammers and the con artists who are out there."

"I was just soothing the bike into a nice right-hand curve when the front wheel unexpectedly washed out from underneath me."

"I started to read about it, to listen to podcasts and audiobooks about it. I asked questions of a couple of people I knew who owned rental properties."

"If that's something you can picture for yourself and your family, join me on the next show and I'll tell you what I did. So maybe you can do the same."

VALUABLE RESOURCES

HOST BIO

Into The Silence

Mon, 26 Aug 2024 00:00:00 -0000

Neil explores the importance of silence in our modern, noisy lives. Drawing parallels between sound and silence in music and photography, Neil emphasises the need for quiet contemplation and deep thinking. He guides listeners on creating a quiet space, disconnecting from distractions, and embracing silence to enhance focus and productivity. Neil shares practical tips, such as using noise-canceling headphones and scheduling silent time, to help listeners experience the benefits of silence. Through personal anecdotes and insights, Neil encourages listeners to explore the transformative power of silence in renewing connections with oneself and others.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Silence is essential: In a world filled with constant noise and distractions, taking time for silence is crucial for deep thinking and focus.
Create a quiet space: Setting up a designated silent space free from technology and distractions can help in fostering creativity and concentration.
Disconnect from technology: Turning off phones and other devices can prevent interruptions and allow for uninterrupted thinking and reflection.
Start small: Begin with short periods of silence and gradually increase the time spent in quiet contemplation to build tolerance and reap the benefits.
Listen to the inner voice: Embracing silence allows for introspection and renewal, enabling individuals to connect with themselves and their intuition.

BEST MOMENTS

"Silence is the other half of the music. Without the silence, the sounds that we make as musicians don't really add up too much."

"Notice how uncomfortable that is. You may suddenly seem to have an aversion to just being quiet."

"Personally, I always take a pen and paper into the quiet space with me, because I know that thoughts will emerge when all the noise dies down and they come out of the silence."

"Silent people generally command respect. Silence allows us to listen."

"If you do live in a very noisy environment, I suggest you buy either a pair of noise-canceling headphones or a pair of ear defenders."

VALUABLE RESOURCES

HOST BIO

Sales is not a Dirty Word

Mon, 19 Aug 2024 00:00:00 -0000

Neil talks about the topic of sales in the tutoring, teaching, and coaching business. He challenges the negative connotations associated with sales, emphasising that selling is about providing the right solution to a customer's problem rather than manipulating them into a purchase. Neil's insights shed light on the crucial role of sales in running a successful tutoring business and how it ultimately serves both the customer and the business owner.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Selling is not about manipulating or pressurizing customers, but about providing elegant solutions to their problems.
Good sales involve listening, understanding, and solving the customer's needs in a professional and ethical manner.
It is essential to have a win-win situation in sales, where both the customer and the salesperson benefit.
Relational selling, based on ongoing relationships between buyers and sellers, is key to long-term success in business.
Reluctance to sell may deprive prospective customers of valuable solutions and hinder the growth and success of a tutoring business.

BEST MOMENTS

"Selling is, as I understand it, the art of bringing together a customer who has a problem with the elegant, appropriate solution to that problem."

"If you can't properly sell your excellent product or service to the right buyer, you are failing them."

"Selling isn't holding a gun to someone's head and forcing them to hand over their money."

"The very best sales pitch of all is when you get them to say yes to that better vision or concept of themselves."

"Remember, I'm here to listen as well as talk. And obviously I don't have all the answers, so maybe if you've got answers that work for you, share them with me."

VALUABLE RESOURCES

HOST BIO

Work So Hard They Think You're Crazy

Mon, 12 Aug 2024 00:00:00 -0000

Neil talks about the concept of hard work and the grind of being an entrepreneur. He emphasises the importance of sustained effort and the invisible work that goes into achieving success. Neil shares personal insights and experiences from his 25 years in business, highlighting the sacrifices and dedication required to build a thriving tutoring business.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Hard Work Pays Off: The importance of putting in focused, sustained effort over a long period of time is emphasised as a key factor in achieving success.
Invisible Work: The concept of "invisible work" or "secret work" is essential, this is the behind-the-scenes effort entrepreneurs put in.
Maintain Momentum: Once success starts to show, it is crucial to keep pushing forward and not lose momentum, as regaining it can be challenging.
Challenges of Entrepreneurship: The journey of an entrepreneur is one filled with hard work, sacrifices, and new challenges even after achieving initial success.
Perception of Others: Others may not fully understand or appreciate the level of effort and dedication required in entrepreneurship, leading to misconceptions or judgments about choices and lifestyle.

BEST MOMENTS

"It's the kind of effort, the focused, sustained effort, often over periods of years that most people just won't do."

"This is the hard graft of being in business. We do the work, that out-of-sight work, the secret work, if you like, means that we're slowly winning."

"Fear taking your foot off the gas pedal. Dread losing your essential, vital momentum."

"Their raised eyebrows and chagrined head shaking are clues that I'm on the right track, as far as I'm concerned."

"How hard are you prepared to work over the next few years, this decade? Let me know guys."

VALUABLE RESOURCES

HOST BIO

On Being Wrong

Mon, 05 Aug 2024 00:00:00 -0000

Neil Cameron talks about the topic of embracing being wrong as a crucial aspect of growth and learning. Drawing from his experience as a tutor and coach, Neil discusses how the fear of making mistakes can hinder progress, particularly in fields like music where experimentation is key.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Embrace being wrong and see it as an opportunity for growth and learning.
Being wrong allows for course corrections and opens up the possibility of trying new approaches.
Mistakes are a natural part of the learning process and should be viewed as opportunities to improve.
Continuous learning and upgrades are essential for personal and professional development.
Encouraging a mindset that welcomes being wrong can lead to greater success and self-improvement.

BEST MOMENTS

"I think it's really important that as teachers or tutors, particularly things like music, you've got to be able to put that issue completely to bed."

"The fear of making mistakes, the fear of being wrong is a massive part of my teaching life."

"I love being wrong. I bloody love it."

"When you're wrong, you get to learn something new. You see, you haven't just failed at something. You've learned a new way to not do it."

"Maybe I'm wrong. But I'm here to be useful. I'm not here to be right. And I'm definitely not here to be perfect."

VALUABLE RESOURCES

HOST BIO

The Board

Mon, 29 Jul 2024 00:00:00 -0000

In this episode, Neil explores the power of influential books and the concept of the Mastermind Alliance. Drawing from his personal journey and experiences, Neil discusses how books like "Think and Grow Rich" by Napoleon Hill and "Success Through a Positive Mental Attitude" by W. Clement Stone transformed his mindset and approach to success. Through engaging storytelling and practical advice, Neil encourages listeners to consider creating their own version of the board to enhance their decision-making and problem-solving abilities.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

The importance of surrounding oneself with a Mastermind Alliance to discuss ideas and generate solutions to problems.
The concept of creating a personal "Board" of influential figures, both living and deceased, to offer insights and wisdom in times of need.
The effectiveness of visualising and engaging with the "Board" to seek guidance and clarity on various situations.
The value of seeking advice and perspectives from a diverse group of individuals, whether in real-life mastermind groups or through an imaginary board.
The impact of utilising the "Board" for making informed decisions, gaining new perspectives, and receiving valuable guidance for personal and professional growth.

BEST MOMENTS

"Think and Grow Rich challenged my ideas about money, then Success Through a Positive Mental Attitude would ultimately help to steer away from my downtrodden psyche and my depressed state."

"The Mastermind Alliance is a gathering of people to discuss ideas and generate solutions to problems. I can vouch for the effect of being in a mastermind group."

"The Board are a select group of people who make themselves available to me, free of charge, at zero notice, 24-7, to help me and to offer me their insights and their wisdom."

"I call the rabble to order and the room falls silent as they listen to my situation. I tend to speak it out loud because forming the words means I have to be clear in my communications."

"There has never been an occasion that the board haven't come through for me. Not a single one. They've saved me a fortune. They've made me a lot of money. They've corrected my course and checked my moral compass."

VALUABLE RESOURCES

HOST BIO

The Spark

Mon, 22 Jul 2024 00:00:00 -0000

Neil talks about the common challenges faced by adult students in learning new skills, drawing from his 25 years of experience in teaching guitar and mentoring in property investing and business. He discusses the internal barriers that hold adult learners back, such as fear of failure and self-limiting beliefs instilled over time. Neil emphasises the importance of nurturing the spark of creativity and playfulness within adult students, guiding them to rediscover their passion and potential. The episode resonates with the idea that teaching goes beyond technical skills, focusing on igniting the spark of inspiration and joy in learners.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Importance of Finding the Spark: It is crucial to identify and nurture the spark of passion, creativity, and playfulness in adult students to help them overcome self-imposed limitations and fears.
Challenging Comfort Zones: Encouraging students to embrace challenges, discomfort, and risks is essential for personal growth and development, both in music education and other areas of life.
Creating a Safe Environment: Teachers play a vital role in creating a safe and supportive space for students to explore their potential, rediscover their passion, and unleash their creativity.
Teaching Goes Beyond Technical Skills: Teaching is more than just imparting technical skills; it involves helping students reconnect with their inner spark, passion, and joy for learning and self-expression.
Continuous Learning and Growth: As educators, it is important to continuously seek out and cultivate the spark in students, guiding them towards self-discovery, growth, and fulfillment in their learning journey.

BEST MOMENTS

"I think that if I can give you what I've found useful in my own life, then maybe you can get some value out of it too."

"Our job is to prod around inside the minds, hearts and souls of those who seek us out."

"The real satisfaction of teaching, for me at least, is when I see the spark leap up."

"I know that trying to keep a child safe is the very best way to endanger them."

"Teaching is always about more than just the instrument, more than the technical skills, more than the dots on the page."

VALUABLE RESOURCES

HOST BIO

Thinking With Your Hands

Mon, 15 Jul 2024 00:00:00 -0000

In Episode 332 of The Tutor Podcast, Neil shares his insights on how he manages multiple businesses and stays organised. He talks about the importance of writing things down to free up mental space and increase clarity. Neil encourages listeners to reflect on their lives, examine what works and what doesn't, and share their discoveries with him.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Focus on writing down goals and plans to achieve them, as writing helps with clarity and precision.
Implement a daily activity plan by breaking down long-term goals into actionable steps.
Utilise pen and paper for writing to engage different thought processes and retain more information.
Take time to reflect and write about personal thoughts and ideas for better understanding and self-improvement.
Stay accountable by reviewing progress regularly and making adjustments to stay on track towards goals.

BEST MOMENTS

"I just take time every day to look at all the things that the group asked me about. About relationships, the relationships with my friends, my family, my son."

"Brains is for having ideas with, not for keeping things in."

"Just write it down, block the time out, take the action."

"The unexamined life is not worth living."

VALUABLE RESOURCES

HOST BIO

Money and Morality

Mon, 08 Jul 2024 00:00:00 -0000

Neil addresses the common struggle many tutors face when it comes to charging for their services. Through a personal anecdote about a friend returning to tutoring after illness, Neil shares the psychological barriers that prevent tutors from valuing their own worth. He emphasises the importance of charging fair prices for the expertise and help provided, highlighting how perceived value influences client commitment and outcomes.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Value Your Time and Skills: Your time is valuable, and it is essential to charge for your tutoring services to reflect the value of your skills and expertise.
Perceived Value: Charging a fair price for your services creates a perceived value for your students, motivating them to show up and engage fully in the learning process.
Get Over Guilt: It is not immoral or dishonest to get paid for doing what you love and are good at. Embrace the idea of being compensated for your expertise and help.
Fair Exchange: Offering your knowledge and experience at a fair price to willing buyers is a moral obligation. It is wrong to withhold help from someone who is seeking it.
Silent Applause: The money you earn from your tutoring services is a silent applause for a job well done. It signifies appreciation for your support, skills, and dedication to helping others.

BEST MOMENTS

"My friend is an excellent teacher who loves to teach. She always has been in love with her subject, loves the kids, loves the job. And that's really the crux of the problem."

"Making money from doing something you enjoy and that you're really good at is not immoral. It's not dishonest. It's not something to be ashamed of."

"Your price is high enough and people will assume that it must be special in some way. If it wasn't special, if it wasn't worth so much, why would they be asking so much for it?"

"I think it's truly morally wrong to be able to help someone but decline to do so at fair exchange."

"You are worth every penny of your fees, pet. That money is the silent applause for a job well done. It's an appreciation of your help, your support, your skills."

VALUABLE RESOURCES

HOST BIO

OPM, OPE, OPK, OPN, OMG!

Mon, 01 Jul 2024 00:00:00 -0000

Join Neil as he discusses the importance of leveraging other people's resources to grow and succeed in business. Neil shares his personal journey of starting as a solo tutor and gradually realising the limitations of working alone. Through anecdotes and insights, Neil highlights the significance of collaboration, delegation, and reciprocity in building a thriving tutoring or teaching business. The episode concludes with a call to action for listeners to embrace the "who, not how" mindset and seek out opportunities for mutually beneficial partnerships.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Utilise Other People's Resources: Leverage other people's money, knowledge, skills, energy, and networks to grow and succeed in business
Delegate and Outsource: Recognise the value of delegating tasks to others, whether it's maintenance, design work, or other responsibilities, to focus on what truly matters and maximise efficiency
Win-Win Collaborations: Emphasise the significance of creating mutually beneficial relationships where all parties involved benefit, ensuring long-term success and positive outcomes.
Continuous Learning and Growth: Constantly seek opportunities for growth, learning, and earning even while asleep, you should always be evolving and expanding your business.
Teamwork and Support: Build a team of professionals and experts in various fields to support and enhance business operations, and utilise the power of collaboration.

BEST MOMENTS

"Someone once told me, if you can't figure out a way to get paid while you're asleep, you always have to work. And that pretty much floored me."

"Can you grow, learn and earn whilst you sleep? That's the question I really want to ask you today. Can you do that? Can you make money? Can you learn and earn whilst you're asleep?"

"The bitter truth is guys, that as nice as it sounds to be a solopreneur, it's very very hard to do it alone."

"I'm all in favour of hustle, grind and hard work. It's what I do. And it works for me and it works for you, no doubt."

VALUABLE RESOURCES

HOST BIO

Stick To Your Knitting

Mon, 24 Jun 2024 00:00:00 -0000

In this episode, Neil explores the concept of "sticking to your knitting" and the power of staying put in what works. Drawing from personal experiences and insights gained over 25 years in business, Neil emphasises the importance of consistency and daily effort in achieving success. He shares anecdotes about his own journey, including a pivotal moment with a mentor that redirected his focus back to his passion for teaching guitar. Neil highlights the dangers of becoming complacent after reaching a goal and stresses the need to continue improving and challenging oneself.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Stick to what works: It is important to continue doing what works for you, even if it becomes routine or boring. Success can easily slip away if you stop doing what made you successful in the first place.
Consistency is key: Doing something every single day, no matter how small, can lead to significant progress over time. Consistency in your actions can help you achieve your goals and maintain success.
Avoid complacency: Comfort can be dangerous, especially when you become too comfortable in your success. It is essential to keep pushing yourself, setting new goals, and challenging yourself to avoid becoming stagnant.
Set bigger goals: Instead of just reaching a target, consider setting bigger and more challenging goals. This can help you stay motivated and continue to grow in your endeavours.
Learn from past mistakes: Reflect on past experiences where you may have veered off course or lost momentum. Use these lessons to stay focused on what works for you and avoid repeating the same mistakes.

BEST MOMENTS

"There's no amount of money worth being miserable for."

"Stick to your knitting. It's such a cosy, homely phrase, isn't it?"

"Do something every single day. Call it relentless, call it discipline, call it diligence."

"Stick to your knitting and allow the results to compound up over time. It works for me and it works for you."

"This is how water cuts through rock. Just drip, drip, drip."

VALUABLE RESOURCES

HOST BIO

Walk Away - The Ultimate Freedom and the Power of No

Mon, 17 Jun 2024 00:00:00 -0000

Neil talks about the power of saying no in various aspects of life and business. Drawing from his own experiences and insights gained over 25 years in the industry, Neil emphasises the importance of prioritising one's own well-being and goals. He discusses the negative impact of energy vampires and the significance of surrounding oneself with positive influences. The episode concludes with a call to action for listeners to share their experiences of saying no and the positive impact it has had on their lives.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Embrace the power of saying no to things that do not align with your goals or values.
Prioritise taking care of yourself first before helping others, as it ensures you can be of better assistance.
Surround yourself with positive and motivated individuals to avoid being influenced negatively.
Recognise sunk costs and do not feel obligated to continue investing in something that is not beneficial.
Walking away from a situation can be a sign of strength and can open up opportunities for better choices.

BEST MOMENTS

"I would always put across to you that you are not responsible for the rescue of someone else from the results of their indolence, ignorance and stupidity."

"One of the rules I live by is DDWT. Don't deal with tossers."

"Stay no to what doesn't help you."

"Sometimes saying no is the only option, the only sane option, it's the only honest option."

"Walking away isn't a weakness. It's the ultimate strength. It's your superpower."

VALUABLE RESOURCES

HOST BIO

Timelining

Mon, 10 Jun 2024 00:00:00 -0000

Neil introduces the concept of Timelining, an NLP technique aimed at generating shifts in perspective and insight. Neil shares his personal experience with using Timelining in his own life and with his students and coaching clients. He guides listeners through the process of physically visualising their goals on a timeline, adjusting the timeline as needed, and creating a well-sequenced plan to achieve those goals. Neil emphasises the importance of engaging physically in the process to enhance the vividness of the visualisation.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

The timelining technique is a creative visioning tool that uses space and time concepts to generate shifts of perspective and insight.
Timelining can be done mentally or physically, with the physical method being more effective as it involves moving the mind and body together.
When using timelining, visualise your goals at the end of the timeline and then assess how the distance feels from the present moment.
Adjust the position of goals on the timeline if they feel too far or too close, ensuring they are in a position that feels right.
By physically engaging in the timelining process, individuals can gain insights, adjust the sequence of events, and create a well-sequenced plan to achieve their goals.

BEST MOMENTS

"Time learning is a creative visioning tool that uses space and time concepts to generate shifts of perspective and insight."

"I'm constantly doing this everywhere I'm on the timeline. If it feels too long a time, too far away, I'll walk back along the timeline towards today to a point where the goal starts to feel about right."

"I've done this countless times with students and clients and every time I've been struck by how people change their ideas as they're playing."

"Typically, insights present themselves and people say things like, ooh, that feels too far away. I don't think I can get there."

"It's incredibly useful if you're prepared to go and play and do it physically."

VALUABLE RESOURCES

HOST BIO

Goals, Goals, Goals

Mon, 03 Jun 2024 00:00:00 -0000

In this episode, Neil explores the importance of setting goals and the impact they have on personal growth and success. Drawing from his own experiences and insights gained over 25 years in business, Neil emphasises the need for clear, challenging goals that push individuals beyond their comfort zones. He discusses the concept of SMART goals and contrasts them with the BHAG model (Big Hairy Audacious Goals). Neil provides practical advice on how to work towards goals by breaking them down into manageable steps and establishing daily habits that move individuals closer to their desired outcomes.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Setting clear goals is essential for success and personal excellence.
Goals act as a rudder, compass, and lighthouse to guide progress towards the desired endpoint.
It is crucial to focus on the process of achieving goals rather than just the outcome.
Developing a habit of taking daily actions towards the goal can lead to long-term success.
Timelining is a valuable technique that can help in achieving goals effectively.

BEST MOMENTS

"Life without goals, without targets, without direction. You might blunder into something, sometime, but frankly it's a bit of a long shot, isn't it?"

"I set goals high for myself and for the people around me because I care. Something to live up to. Something worth going after."

"100% at university probably isn't going to be possible. Not all the time and not in every circumstance."

"The outcome is nothing without the process. So always focus on the process."

"Habits are built in a simple three step model. Cue. Action. Reward."

VALUABLE RESOURCES

HOST BIO

You Always Pay Twice

Mon, 27 May 2024 00:00:00 -0000

Neil shares insights and experiences from a round table meeting with property entrepreneurs. Drawing parallels between success in different industries, Neil emphasises the importance of learning from successful individuals and being willing to invest in oneself. He discusses the concept of "hurting money" as a motivator for taking action and highlights the value of paying the price of admission in order to gain valuable knowledge and skills. Neil encourages listeners to embrace the idea of paying the price, both financially and through hard work, in order to achieve success in their tutoring, teaching, or coaching businesses.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Success leaves clues, so it's important to surround yourself with successful and generous individuals who can provide valuable insights and wisdom.
Investing in education and learning from various industries can lead to innovative ideas and disrupt conventional thinking within your own industry.
Paying the price of admission, whether it be financial or through hard work, is essential for personal and professional growth.
The concept of "hurting money" emphasises the importance of investing in oneself and being willing to take action to ensure the investment pays off.
Continuous learning and skill development are crucial for personal and professional growth, and it's important to always be open to new ideas and opportunities for growth.

BEST MOMENTS

"Success leaves clues. And so does failure."

"The disruption is unlikely to come from within the same industry. It usually arrives out of left field from somewhere else."

"The money isn't really a spend you see, it's an investment in myself and my future."

"No pain, no gain. That's what they say, right? It's the pain of wasting that hurting money that makes all the difference."

"If it's expensive and it's terrifying, good. Hand over the price of admission and then get busy paying the price of action."

VALUABLE RESOURCES

HOST BIO

Opportunity Costs

Mon, 20 May 2024 00:00:00 -0000

Neil shares his experience attending a business and finance seminar over the weekend, where he learned from successful millionaires and a billionaire. Neil discusses the value of investing in self-improvement events and training, highlighting the opportunity cost associated with not taking advantage of such opportunities.Neil encourages listeners to consider the cost of ignorance and shares insights on how investing in education and mentorship can lead to significant returns in the long run.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Invest in Education: Attending seminars, courses, and events may come with a financial cost, but the knowledge and skills gained often far outweigh the initial investment.
Opportunity Cost: Every decision has an opportunity cost associated with it. Consider what you could be doing instead of your current activities and evaluate if the potential outcome is greater.
Value Your Time: Recognise the value of your time and expertise. Don't hesitate to let go of low-value tasks or difficult clients to make room for more fulfilling opportunities.
Continuous Learning: Embrace continuous learning and growth. Education and mentorship may seem expensive, but the cost of ignorance and missed opportunities can be much higher.
Share Knowledge: Be open to sharing your knowledge and learning from others. Collaboration and exchanging ideas can lead to mutual growth and success.

BEST MOMENTS

"The fact is that the great majority of people out there will never attend a business and finance event or any other kind of self-improvement event."

"The seminar rooms I go to are full of weirdos, madmen who are crazy enough to think that they could do something new, learn something new, perhaps reinvent their lives and find their bliss and capture their fortune."

"If the potential outcome is greater than the cost of the event, Go do the bloody event."

"Someone can learn in a few hours with me something that they've struggled with for decades."

"Remember guys, if you think education is expensive, consider the cost of ignorance."

VALUABLE RESOURCES

HOST BIO

Escaping The Compliance Factory

Mon, 13 May 2024 00:00:00 -0000

Neil passionately discusses the importance of embracing failure in education. Drawing from his own experiences and interactions with students, Neil challenges the traditional mindset of avoiding failure at all costs. He emphasises the value of making mistakes, learning from them, and using failure as a stepping stone towards excellence. Neil shares anecdotes about disrupting the education system to encourage creativity and growth, advocating for a more holistic approach to teaching and mentoring.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Encourage Failure: It is important to encourage students to fail without consequence, as failure is a necessary precursor to excellence.
Subvert Failure-Based Mindset: As tutors and mentors, it is crucial to subvert the failure-based mindset imposed by systems focused on compliance and fear.
Disrupt Fear of Failure: Disrupt and destroy the conditioned fear of failure in students to promote progress, achievement, and learning.
Break the Rules: Breaking the rules and encouraging students to do things badly can lead to improvement and growth.
Think Independently: Emphasise the importance of thinking independently and pursuing personal theories and opinions, rather than conforming to prescribed guidelines.

BEST MOMENTS

"The system wants our kids to become compliant little workers. Back in the day, compliant little factory workers. These days, compliant little office workers to keep their heads down, to be watchful and not to screw up ever."

"I say nuts to that. I say that we as tutors and mentors have a duty to subvert that failure-based mindset."

"Every master was once a disaster. Every winner was once a beginner."

"If all that's taught is the test, the school is just a hoop-jumping factory."

"We, you and I, my fellow free spirits and shooters, are duty bound to disrupt and destroy that conditioned fear of fucking up."

VALUABLE RESOURCES

HOST BIO

The 30 Minute Book Guru

Mon, 06 May 2024 00:00:00 -0000

Join host Neil as he passionately discusses the pitfalls of relying on AI to write books and the importance of genuine effort and passion in writing. He criticises the deceptive tactics of individuals selling shortcuts and secret algorithms for writing books, emphasising that true writing involves soulful expression and dedication. Neil encourages listeners to embrace the process of writing authentically, without seeking quick fixes or magic systems.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Avoid shortcuts: Writing takes time, effort, passion, dedication, and diligence. It is a process that requires the essence of the writer to be reflected in the work.
Beware of conmen: Be cautious of individuals selling quick-fix solutions or secret algorithms for success. True success in writing comes from genuine effort and authenticity.
Write with soul: When writing, let your voice, passions, and even agonies shine through. It is through this authenticity that readers can connect with the essence of your work.
Value the process: Good writing is a result of sweat, passion, and dedication. It is a reflection of the writer's commitment to their craft.
Engage authentically: Instead of seeking magic systems or shortcuts, embrace the process of writing authentically. Let your words flow from your soul onto the page.

BEST MOMENTS

"If AI is writing your book, where's the passion in the book going to come from?"

"Let's not talk to these idiots who want to sell you a loophole in the system, a secret algorithm, and a backdoor hack that nobody else knows about."

"Writing takes time. Good stuff takes time. Good stuff takes effort."

"When we write, we're putting blood and ink on the page. Something of the essence of us finds its way through the pen to the reader."

"Grab a pen and spoil a blank page. Do the work and as for the 30-minute book guru, wave at him with one finger."

VALUABLE RESOURCES

HOST BIO

Death by Comfort Zone

Mon, 29 Apr 2024 00:00:00 -0000

Neil shares insights and reflections on the importance of avoiding the comfort zone in life and business. Drawing from his own experiences and wisdom gained over 25 years in the industry, Neil emphasises the need to push boundaries, challenge oneself, and stay uncomfortable to continue growing and thriving. The episode serves as a motivational call to action for individuals in the tutoring, teaching, and coaching business to keep moving forward, stay hungry for growth, and never settle for a comfortable existence.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Avoid the Comfort Zone: The comfort zone is where dreams are broken, passions are slain, and hope goes to die. It is important to push towards the edge and stay uncomfortable every single day.
Keep Moving: It is essential to keep moving, pushing against perceived limits, and avoiding a slowdown or gradual decline.
Rage Against Settling: Do not settle into a comfortable existence. Instead, embrace risk, adventure, and daring to avoid the slow goodnight into a comfortable but unfulfilling life.
Stay Hungry: The hunger to grow and be more, to live an uncomfortable life, is crucial. It is important to stay hungry and continue to seek growth and improvement.
Seek Growth and Adventure: Embrace life with a spirit of risk, adventure, and daring. Do not go gently into a comfortable existence but instead rage against settling and embrace the uncomfortable journey of growth and discovery.

BEST MOMENTS

"If you're not on the edge, you're taking up too much damn space."

"The comfort zone is where dreams are broken, passions are slain, and where hope goes to die."

"Old age should burn and rave at close of day. Rage! Rage against the dying of the light."

"Going gentle into that good night is Thomas's magnificent call to life, to risk, adventure and daring."

"Stay uncomfortable every single day."

VALUABLE RESOURCES

HOST BIO

The Flying Roast Duck Myth

Mon, 22 Apr 2024 00:00:00 -0000

Neil emphasises the importance of taking action and actively pursuing one's goals, rather than waiting for success to come by chance. Neil uses the analogy of a man waiting for a roast duck to fly into his mouth to illustrate the concept of not leaving things to chance. He encourages listeners to define their goals clearly, know what they want, and take deliberate steps towards achieving them.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Don't wait for success to happen by chance: The old Chinese saying mentioned in the podcast emphasises the importance of taking action and not relying on luck or chance to achieve your goals.
Define your goals clearly: Many people lack well-defined and visualised goals, which hinders their progress. It's crucial to know exactly what you want to achieve in order to work towards it effectively.
Effort is essential for success: Success requires effort, just like successful hunting demands effort. Those who are willing to put in the work are more likely to achieve their dreams compared to those who wait for things to happen by chance.
Take daily steps towards your goals: Consistent effort and daily pursuit of your goals are key to achieving success. By actively working towards your goals every day, you increase your chances of success.
Share your progress and seek help: The podcast encourages listeners to share their goals and progress. Seeking help and sharing knowledge can be beneficial in achieving your goals and overcoming obstacles.

BEST MOMENTS

"Don't leave it to chance ever... get out there, get after it and make it happen."

"If you ask them what happiness looks like to them... they haven't got a clue."

"Find out what your duck actually looks like... go get your duck, don't wait for it to happen by chance."

"Success demands effort... successful hunting demands effort."

VALUABLE RESOURCES

HOST BIO

The Risks of Having a Good Job

Mon, 15 Apr 2024 00:00:00 -0000

Neil shares valuable insights and advice for individuals in the tutoring, teaching, and coaching business. He emphasises the benefits and challenges of being your own boss, highlighting the freedom and responsibility that come with it. Neil discusses the importance of defining your ideal clients, setting pricing strategies, and diversifying income streams to ensure financial stability.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

The tutoring, teaching, and coaching business offers the freedom to decide how to spend your days, who to work with, and how much to earn.
Responsibility in running your own business includes making decisions on pricing, scheduling, and client selection.
Cultivating multiple streams of income is crucial to ensure financial stability and success in the tutoring business.
It is important to continuously innovate and explore new ways to grow your tutoring business, such as creating products or offering additional services.
Despite the challenges and responsibilities, running a tutoring business can be a fair trade-off for the freedom and control it provides.

BEST MOMENTS

"For me, especially, I'm probably unemployable after working for myself for a quarter of a century."

"Remember don't deal with tossers and enjoy your life. Those two golden rules DDWT and don't do miserable making things."

"There are no victims out there, guys. They're all awakening heroes. They're not who they've been told they are."

"Remember guys when you work for yourself if you're not working you're probably not earning."

VALUABLE RESOURCES

HOST BIO

Holidays - My Own Private Hell

Mon, 08 Apr 2024 00:00:00 -0000

Neil discusses the topic of holidays and the unique perspective entrepreneurs may have towards them. Neil shares his personal experience of finding more joy in teaching and working than in traditional holiday activities. He discusses the guilt and conflicting emotions entrepreneurs may face when taking time off from their businesses. Neil reflects on his own struggles with the idea of holidays and invites listeners to share their thoughts and experiences on the matter. The episode offers a candid and relatable exploration of the complex relationship entrepreneurs may have with taking time away from their work.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Holidays can be seen as hell for some individuals who are deeply passionate about their work and find fulfilment in their daily activities.
Entrepreneurs, driven by their passion and purpose, may struggle to prioritise taking time off for holidays, feeling guilty about letting down students and betraying their mission.
Anhedonia, a condition where individuals find their own work so pleasurable that they are reluctant to engage in activities of lower value, can make it challenging to enjoy traditional holiday experiences.
Despite the reluctance towards holidays, there may be moments or experiences that are too valuable to pass up, such as creating memories with loved ones or exploring new cultures.
Individuals need to reflect on their feelings towards holidays and time away from work, as everyone's perspective and priorities may differ.

BEST MOMENTS

"I know holidays are supposed to be all fun and special and all that stuff. It's something to look forward to, yada, yada, yada. But frankly, I don't get it."

"Her bliss isn't posh frocks, cocktails and dancing the night away. Her happy is on her building site and her bliss is ripping out the guts of a tired old property and working her own magic."

"We entrepreneurs can struggle to maintain our path and our social networks at the same time."

"I remember once driving as far as the airport and going through the barrier onto the long stay car park to go and join a bunch of friends and my brothers in Spain and driving straight out the other end of the car park."

"Holidays might be hell, but sometimes there are things you can't say no to."

VALUABLE RESOURCES

HOST BIO

Anchoring Excellence, Silliness and Fun

Mon, 01 Apr 2024 00:00:00 -0000

Neil delves into the concept of anchoring in NLP and its profound impact on teaching and learning. Neil shares his personal experience of using anchors to access his optimal teaching state instantly. He explains the process of building anchors step by step and encourages listeners to try anchoring for themselves!

KEY TAKEAWAYS

The concept of state, as propounded by the founders of NLP, refers to the emotional, mental, and physiological condition of an individual at any given moment.
Managing one's state and the state of students can be a game-changer in teaching business or any other setting.
Building anchors can help in accessing desired qualities or skills at will by triggering a specific state.
Anchors can be set on the body or even on physical objects or places, depending on individual preference.
By using the right kind of anchor, individuals can enter a special state designed for themselves, leading to increased confidence and effectiveness in their work.

BEST MOMENTS

"Managing your state and the state of your students can be a game changer in your teaching business, or in pretty much any other setting from what I see."

"I hit that button and it's like, boom! I feel absolutely unstoppable. I know I'm going to help my students. I know we're going to have fun."

"I think this is one of the reasons I still get fired up to teach Even after 25 years."

"I've learned to anchor myself into my own optimal teaching state in a matter of seconds on cue and completely at will."

"Every time now, he needs the courage to be honest, he taps the tattoo and he triggers his own anchor."

VALUABLE RESOURCES

HOST BIO

The Right State

Mon, 25 Mar 2024 01:00:00 -0000

Neil delves into the concept of "state" as defined by the founders of NLP (neuro-linguistic programming). He discusses how understanding and managing states, which encompass emotional, mental, and physiological conditions, can be a game-changer in teaching and learning. Neil provides real-world examples of positive and negative states in students and explains how teachers can adapt their own state to create rapport and lead students in the right direction. Neil's engaging and informative discussion offers practical tips for tutors, teachers, and coaches to enhance their effectiveness and create a positive learning experience for their students.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Understanding and effectively managing states can be a game changer in teaching and learning.
Positive states foster engagement, receptivity, and effective communication, while negative states can hinder learning.
The environment, such as a well-lit, clean, and positive teaching room, can significantly impact the states of both the teacher and the student.
Teachers can mirror and establish rapport with students in negative states to gradually lead them towards a more positive state without them being aware.
Utilizing NLP techniques like anchoring can help teachers quickly transition into their optimal teaching state, influencing students positively.

BEST MOMENTS

"NLP is a neuro linguistic programming developed back in the 70s by a mathematician and a linguist. And it has profound implications for teaching and learning."

"States are really, really important if we're trying to make that bridge between ourselves and the student."

"If they get that, it's going to put them in a state where it's much easier for them to change and to become the sort of musician, player or even a person that they'd like to be."

"But right now I just want you to be curious and excited and get into that state of mind about how you could use state transitions and anchoring to simply flip yourself into your own peak state."

VALUABLE RESOURCES

HOST BIO

Plus and Minus Tracking

Mon, 18 Mar 2024 01:00:00 -0000

Join Neil as he shares insights on how to effectively manage time in a no-nonsense, practical way. He emphasises the importance of tracking activities to increase productivity and happiness in both business and personal life. Tune in to learn how to make the most of your time and improve your tutoring, teaching, or coaching business.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Neil talks about the importance of tracking daily activities to assess their effectiveness and impact on the business.
Activities are categorised into plus one, zero, minus one, and minus two ratings based on their long-term benefits and immediate impact.
Neil highlights the significance of focusing on plus one activities that contribute to business growth and profitability.
Minus one and minus two activities, such as unnecessary meetings and toxic interactions, are identified as detrimental and should be avoided.
Regularly evaluating and adjusting how time is spent can lead to increased productivity and success in the tutoring business.

BEST MOMENTS

"This is a really, really difficult thing to do, but it's totally worth it. It's a form of just activity tracking. Now, some of you will probably do this already, but there'll be a very, very small proportion of the audience."

"So if you rate your activities every half an hour or so, just put a dot in the relevant column and a very brief comment to the left to say what you're doing, then you can whittle away the things that aren't good."

"I, Neil Cowmeadow, hereby swear my solemn oath to insulate myself from other people's shrieking need for my attention, my time and my energy. I recognise that the crisis of their indolence and stupidity is not my problem."

VALUABLE RESOURCES

HOST BIO

Flippin' Questions

Mon, 11 Mar 2024 01:00:00 -0000

Neil talks about the power of reframing and reversing perspectives to achieve success in the tutoring business. With his trademark positivity and no-nonsense approach, Neil challenges listeners to consider how they can guarantee failure in their recruitment efforts by flipping the question on its head. By providing examples of what not to do, Neil encourages tutors to rethink their strategies and identify areas for improvement. Neil emphasises the importance of adopting a positive mindset and taking proactive steps to attract and retain students.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Positive reframing: The ability to turn situations around and see the positive side is a vital skill for a happy life.
Reverse assumptions: By flipping questions and assumptions, new perspectives can be gained to refine goals and strategies.
Specific goals: Instead of vague questions like "How do I find more students?", focus on specific details like age ranges, subjects, and ideal students.
Unique recruitment approach: Consider how to guarantee not recruiting any students, which can lead to identifying actions that are not being taken.
Feedback and engagement: Encourage listeners to provide feedback, suggestions, and questions to improve the podcast and share valuable insights.

BEST MOMENTS

"The ability to turn things on their head and reconsider what they might mean is a vital skill for a happy life, in my opinion."

"So always flip the question. It's flipping marvellous."

"Which one of those things are you not doing? Which ones of them are you doing?"

"I think we should try to reverse everything, especially our own plans and assumptions."

VALUABLE RESOURCES

HOST BIO

The Lucky Overnight Success Myth

Mon, 04 Mar 2024 01:00:00 -0000

Neil dives into the myth of being a lucky overnight success in the tutoring business. Neil challenges the notion of luck and emphasises the importance of hard work, dedication, and intelligent decision-making in achieving success. Drawing from his 25 years of experience in the industry, Neil shares insights and wisdom in a no-nonsense, relatable manner, encouraging listeners to define success on their own terms and put in the necessary effort to make it a reality!

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Success is defined as living life on your own terms, making the world a better place, and leaving a positive impact on others.
Luck is often attributed to successful individuals, but it overlooks the hard work, dedication, and sacrifices they made behind the scenes.
The "lucky mindset" involves expecting good things to happen, actively seeking opportunities, and putting in the effort to achieve success.
Being an overnight success is a myth; true success requires time, effort, and continuous learning over weeks, months, or even years.
Guard your hard-earned success and resources with care, as it is the result of your labour, not just luck.

BEST MOMENTS

"Success is living life the way you want to live it, in pursuit of something worthy of your attention and energy."

"Luck is a nice way to explain things when you don't know what happened."

"When people say you're lucky, they didn't see the 18-hour days you put in week after week."

"The lucky mindset means you expect good things to happen and go out looking for them."

"Life is not a roulette game. Put the odds in your favour by doing things likely to have a positive result."

VALUABLE RESOURCES

HOST BIO

Six Years, No Parole

Mon, 26 Feb 2024 00:00:00 -0000

Join Neil Cowmeadow in episode 312 of The Tutor Podcast as he celebrates six years of consistent podcasting without missing a show. Neil shares insights and ideas from his 25 years in the tutoring business, offering tips on starting, growing, and loving your own tutoring, teaching, or coaching business. Tune in for no-nonsense advice on making your life run more smoothly, adding more fun, and increasing profitability in your business!

KEY TAKEAWAYS

It's been six years and Neil has never missed a show!
from business fundamentals to why we have to have fun Neil has covered a vast amount of subjects.
Neil encourages old and new listeners to always obey his golden rule, DDWT! Don't do shit that makes you miserable.
Across episodes he has pondered taxation, perfectionism, self-doubt, and the nature of obsession and The Encyclopaedia of Applied Fantasticness!
Neil talks about why now is the best time to start teaching and create your own business.
Neil gets a lot of satisfaction and enjoyment from producing his podcast including a sense of commitment.

BEST MOMENTS

"I'll be pulling ideas and extracts from the hundreds of books I've consumed over the years, and to just give it to you in a no-nonsense, no-BS kind of way."

"We've pondered taxation, perfectionism, self-doubt, and the nature of obsession and drive."

"I gain the structure and the discipline of meeting my deadlines and always having something to say, even when I'm tired."

"I'm here to listen as well as to talk. I know I don't have all the answers, so maybe you have one or two that'll be useful to me. Let me know."

"Stay healthy, stay useful. Have fun."

VALUABLE RESOURCES

HOST BIO

The People On The Bus

Mon, 19 Feb 2024 01:00:00 -0000

Neil discusses the importance of not going "round the bend" as tutors, teachers, and coaches in the business. He emphasises the limitations of being a sole trader and the necessity of scaling and scalability in the tutoring business. Neil shares personal experiences of being overwhelmed by day-to-day work and the realisation that hiring others to handle lower-value tasks can actually save time and increase profitability. He highlights the significance of surrounding oneself with the right people on the bus, such as assistants, partners, and service providers, to drive the business forward.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Scale and Scalability: It's important to consider the limitations of being a sole trader in the tutoring business and the impact it has on earning potential.
Importance of Delegating: Hiring people to handle lower-value tasks can free up time for high-value activities, ultimately benefiting the business.
Recognising the Need for Support: Acknowledging the impact of overworking and the importance of having a support system in place to avoid burnout.
Strategic Time Management: Prioritising high-value tasks over lower-value ones can lead to more significant opportunities and growth for the business.
Continuous Learning and Improvement: Being open to feedback and seeking wisdom from others can help in developing and evolving the tutoring business effectively.

BEST MOMENTS

"The problem with this business model is that we're human. Well, some more than human."

"Being human means that there's a limit on how much time you can actually spend teaching and helping people."

"At some point, you'll have to stop teaching... What's your endgame?"

"Hiring people in to do work for me is a saving to the business."

"Get the right people on the bus and then drive the bus. Or better still, get someone else to drive the bus for you."

VALUABLE RESOURCES

HOST BIO

The Inner Moron Rides Again

Mon, 12 Feb 2024 01:00:00 -0000

In this episode, Neil discusses the concept of the "inner moron" that resides within all of us. He shares his personal experiences and insights gained from his 25 years in the tutoring business, discussing how the inner moron often leads us to make choices that are not in our best interests. Neil provides practical strategies for managing and outwitting the inner moron, such as planning ahead, pausing to evaluate decisions, and putting obstacles in its way. He emphasises the importance of reducing friction and making it easier for our better selves to prevail.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Everyone has an inner moron that tempts them to do things that are not in their best interest.
It is important to have a plan for each day to make the most of limited time.
When faced with an impulse to do something stupid, take a pause and ask if it aligns with your goals.
Put obstacles in the way of your inner moron, such as hiding things that enable bad habits.
Make life easier for your better self by reducing friction and taking actions that support positive behaviours.

BEST MOMENTS

"My inner moron wants me to watch hours of YouTube videos that add nothing to my life."

"He wants me to lie in bed and press the snooze button on the alarm when I've got appointments to take care of."

"Your inner moron is strong in this one."

"When the urge to do something truly stupid wells up inside you, again, take a pause, ask yourself one simple question."

"Put as many barriers between yourself and your unwanted behaviors as you can."

VALUABLE RESOURCES

HOST BIO

Are We Having Fun Yet

Mon, 05 Feb 2024 01:00:00 -0000

Neil discusses the importance of incorporating fun into teaching and tutoring. He shares his belief that learning occurs more quickly and effectively in a fun environment, where students feel comfortable making mistakes and taking risks. Neil challenges listeners to assess how much fun they are having in their teaching and to explore ways to add more enjoyment to their work. Overall, this episode encourages tutors and teachers to prioritise fun and playfulness in their practice to create a positive and engaging learning experience for their students.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Fun is important in teaching: It's important to incorporate fun into teaching. A fun environment enables students to learn faster and be more willing to take risks.
Playfulness and creativity: Neil encourages teachers to be playful and creative in their approach to teaching. It suggests experimenting with new patterns, language, body posture, tonalities, and beliefs to make the learning experience more engaging.
Embrace mistakes: It's essential to put work into creating a safe space for students to make mistakes. Encouraging students to intentionally do things badly at first can be one way, as it allows for learning and improvement.
Continuous learning and adaptation: Teachers have to constantly learn and adapt to their students' needs. Teachers should be open to learning from their students and reverse engineering their mistakes to find solutions.
Enjoyment in teaching: So much joy and fulfillment can come from teaching. Reflect on how much time you spend being happy, funny, and silly during your working hours and find ways to add more fun to your teaching practice.

BEST MOMENTS

"Not everybody gets this. Certainly, people look at you strangely if you say I'm off to have some fun, hang out, play guitar with my friends and get paid money for it."

"Being too serious shuts down students because they come intimidated by the perceived risk of failure and here's the thing the real risk of failure in guitar teaching and tutoring is actually zero they screw up nobody dies deal with it."

"Their blockages are my opportunities. They're my opportunities to play, to be creative. And I truly believe that playfulness is something we should all aim for and fill our days with."

"I'll usually show them one or two ways to do it then ask them to do it really badly at first and I'll do that with a big smile because it's not serious it's just rock and roll baby."

"If we're going to be spending the next God knows how many years doing something, wouldn't it be wonderful if that thing was the most fun thing that you knew how to do? And if you happen to get paid a load of money for it. Wonderful. Bravo for you."

VALUABLE RESOURCES

HOST BIO

Putting On The Motley

Mon, 29 Jan 2024 01:00:00 -0000

Join Neil as he explores the power of clothing and how it can shape our perception of ourselves and others. Drawing on historical examples and personal experiences, Neil discusses how clothing can influence our inner game and impact our interactions with others. He talks about the importance of developing a strong inner game and using clothing strategically to project authority, credibility, and professionalism. Neil encourages listeners to pay attention to how different clothing choices make them feel and to experiment with their wardrobe to enhance their performance and success.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Clothing plays a significant role in shaping our perception of ourselves and how others perceive us.
Different clothing choices can affect our behaviour, confidence, and how we are treated by others.
Dressing appropriately for different occasions, such as casual attire for teaching or formal attire for business events, can enhance credibility and influence.
Paying attention to how we feel whilst wearing different clothing items can help us understand what makes us feel powerful, efficient, and effective.
Developing our own "Superman costume" or clothing choices that make us feel empowered can positively impact our performance and interactions with others.

BEST MOMENTS

"I figured that if I can give you some of what I found useful in my own restless search for ideas, for techniques and processes to make my own life run more easily and more smoothly, to cut down the effort, add a ton more fun, and make business more profitable and more enjoyable at the same time."

"We all know that business means are different if you're the best-dressed person at the table. If you are, you're going to exert more influence due to how you're perceived."

"I want to show up like someone who knows what they're doing. And it's the same with business and networking events. I want to show up looking credible."

"I know that we're all told not to judge a book by its cover, but the fact is we all do it. So why not develop a cover that helps you rather than hinders you?"

VALUABLE RESOURCES

HOST BIO

Consistency is King

Mon, 22 Jan 2024 01:00:00 -0000

Neil discusses the importance of consistency in achieving success in tutoring, teaching, and coaching businesses. Drawing from his 25 years of experience, Neil emphasises the significance of establishing a daily routine and implementing it consistently. He explains how consistency at both the daily routine level and the implementation level can lead to improved performance and efficiency. Neil shares his own experiences and insights, highlighting the benefits of practising the same techniques and patterns repeatedly to develop a solid system. He encourages listeners to focus on mastering one thing at a time and gradually building upon it to create a robust and effective approach.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Consistency is key: Whether it's establishing a daily routine or implementing specific practices, consistency is crucial for building a solid foundation.
Establish a daily routine: By setting aside dedicated time for important activities, such as practising or learning, individuals can ensure that they make consistent progress towards their goals.
Implement with precision: By consistently performing tasks in the same way, individuals can develop habits and behaviours that lead to improved performance and efficiency.
Groove in the behavior: Neil talks about the concept of "grooving in" behaviours and habits through repetition. By consistently practising and performing tasks in the same way, individuals can develop instinctive and automatic responses, making the process easier and more enjoyable.
Manage exceptions: While consistency is important, Neil also acknowledges the need to manage exceptions and explore creative possibilities. By establishing a solid foundation through consistent practices, individuals can then experiment and push boundaries within that framework. Managing exceptions allows for growth and creativity while maintaining a strong system.

BEST MOMENTS

"I've got one particular student, he's played all his life. He's intelligent, smart, driven but he's frustrated."

"Consistency means doing it over and over regularly and exactly the same way every time."

"Your body thinks for itself once it's been trained."

"Those notes are always in the same place. I use patterns in which I'm competent and I play those patterns with exactly the same finger movements all the time."

"Ultimately it all comes down to practice, even though that is a word I loathe because of its semantic loadings of being grey, dull, endless, boring."

VALUABLE RESOURCES

HOST BIO

Jacks of All Trades

Mon, 15 Jan 2024 01:00:00 -0000

Neil discusses the concept of being a jack-of-all-trades. He shares his own experiences of being involved in various pursuits and challenges throughout his 24 years in business, including teaching guitar, renovating properties, earning a degree, training in NLP and hypnosis, and even piloting powered aircraft. Neil argues that being a polymath, or a jack-of-all-trades, is a great thing as it allows for a rich and varied life, filled with endless curiosity and exploration. He highlights historical figures such as Nikola Tesla, Leonardo da Vinci, and Isaac Newton as examples of polymaths who have made significant contributions to various fields.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Being a jack-of-all-trades or a polymath is a great thing, as it allows for a rich and varied life with multiple pursuits and challenges.
Specialising in just one thing can get boring and limit personal growth and exploration.
History is filled with polymaths who have made significant contributions to various fields and changed the world.
Embracing a diverse range of interests and skills can lead to a more interesting and fulfilling life.
It's important to follow one's curiosity and quest for knowledge, as it can lead to new discoveries and opportunities.

BEST MOMENTS

"Is there anything you can't do? She asked"

"To me it's a great thing. You see, the other name for a jack-of-all-trades is a polymath, from the Greek word polymathes, meaning having learned much. So this jack-of-all-trades master of none, I don't buy it."

"I've come to believe over the years that it's in the nature of mankind to explore. To possess endless curiosity and to quest for knowledge."

"What if she'd stayed in her lane? What if she'd stuck to her knitting and just did the normal stuff that deaf and blind people were expected to do in the day?"

"Ask yourself, what would have happened if these jacks of all trades had specialised and stayed in their own lanes and just focused in on that one thing?"

VALUABLE RESOURCES

HOST BIO

Staring Into Space

Mon, 08 Jan 2024 01:00:00 -0000

This episode explores the concept that environment is superior to willpower. Neil shares his own experiences of avoiding temptations by staying away from certain environments and emphasises the importance of surrounding oneself with the right environment for success. Neil also discusses the productivity habits of renowned writer Neil Gaiman, who attributes his success to the power of boredom and creating a distraction-free writing space. Neil encourages listeners to try implementing these strategies in their own lives and shares his personal approach to writing.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

The environment is superior to will: The idea that the environment plays a significant role in our actions and decisions, creating a conducive environment can be more effective than relying solely on willpower.
Learn from top performers: By observing principles, beliefs, language, behaviours, and processes of successful people you can improve your skills and achieve similar results.
Embrace boredom: Neil Gaiman's approach to writing creates a space free from distractions and allows him to either write or do nothing. Embracing boredom can lead to increased focus and productivity.
Time blocking: This helps create a routine and ensures dedicated time for the activity.
Give yourself permission: Give yourself permission to either write or not write, this can alleviate the pressure of writer's block. By removing the expectation to produce, it can then be easier to start and engage in the writing process.

BEST MOMENTS

"Environment is superior to will for the vast majority of people. And unless you're a superhuman with iron will and balls of steel, that probably includes you and me."

"Neil's superpower is actually boredom. He has a gazebo where he writes. And while he's there, he obeys one simple rule. Neil says, well you can sit here and write, or you can sit here and do nothing, but you can't do anything else."

"I tell myself it's okay not to write it's okay but it's bloody boring. I don't permit myself to watch YouTube or listen to any podcasts or audiobooks. I may have a quiet soundscape or some background ambient noise playing in my own noise-canceling headphones just to block out distracting sounds. But that's about it. Boring."

"So guys, clear the decks, turn off the phone, turn off the TV, the radio, turn off all notifications, close any windows other than the one you're actually working in. Block out anything and anyone remotely interesting and apply your bum to the seat."

"I don't get writer's block anymore. I just choose to do nothing or to give myself permission to write and do one thing and notice that it's ever so slightly more interesting than doing absolutely nothing at all."

VALUABLE RESOURCES

HOST BIO

The Business Ecosystem

Mon, 01 Jan 2024 00:00:00 -0000

Neil Cowmeadow explores the idea of expanding our perspective as tutors, teachers, and coaches. He encourages listeners to see themselves as business people who happen to teach, rather than being confined to a narrow definition of their profession. Neil shares his own journey of branching out into various fields, such as writing books, collaborating on music, and mentoring others in property investment. He emphasises the importance of thinking beyond the boundaries of teaching and considering how one's skills and expertise can fit into a broader business ecosystem. By doing so, Neil believes that individuals can unlock new opportunities and live up to a bigger, broader definition of themselves and their businesses.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Embrace a broader definition of your tutoring, teaching, or coaching business as part of a larger business ecosystem.
Consider how your unique teaching method can be turned into a product, such as a book or course, to reach a wider audience and generate additional income.
Think like a publisher or marketer to explore new business opportunities and expand your offerings beyond teaching.
Sketch out your business ecosystem, identifying connections and barriers between different businesses and opportunities.
Avoid limiting yourself to a narrow definition of your role and instead strive for a bigger, broader definition that gives you something to aspire to.

BEST MOMENTS

"We're, in my opinion, business people who happen to teach. That's our primary service."

"Your business doesn't need to exist in isolation and it shouldn't exist in isolation. All around it, there are other businesses and other opportunities."

"What if you could turn that into a product, into a book or a course that could be sold worldwide and could help more people? What would that do for your business and for you?"

"A limited definition like that or a self-statement is a prophecy you'll live down to. A bigger, broader definition of who and what you are gives you something else. It gives you something to live up to."

"Think about your ecosystem. Put it out on paper. Have a look at it. Scratch your head. Dream a little bit. Have a bash at it. It's worked for me, and it might work for you too."

VALUABLE RESOURCES

HOST BIO

Health and Wellbeing

Mon, 25 Dec 2023 00:00:00 -0000

Neil Cowmeadow discusses the importance of taking care of our health and well-being on a daily basis. He emphasises that our health is the foundation upon which everything we do is built, and neglecting it can have consequences in our personal and professional lives. Neil challenges the notion that it is normal to experience a gradual decline in health as we age, and instead advocates for investing in our health every day to delay and minimise the impact of chronic diseases. He shares his own experiences with different diets and fasting and encourages listeners to do their own research and find what works best for them.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Taking care of our health and well-being is essential not just during the post-Christmas period, but every single day.
Our health is the foundation upon which everything we do is built, and neglecting it can hinder our ability to deliver our best to our students, customers, clients, and family.
Historically, humans were healthy and robust deep into old age, and it is possible to maintain good health and well-being throughout our lives.
The toxicity of industrially produced processed food and the sedentary lifestyle of the modern world contribute to long-term ill health.
Fixing our diet, incorporating fasting, and prioritising movement and exercise are key steps to getting and staying healthy.

BEST MOMENTS

"The point I want to make today is that we really have to look after ourselves, not just in the post-Christmas period, but every single day."

"Your health is the foundation upon which everything you do is built."

"Walking is one of the most beneficial activities a human being can engage in."

"There is no amount of exercise you can do that can compensate for a bad diet."

"The NHS is really good, ish, at managing sickness. It's piss poor at health because it's not set up to manage health."

VALUABLE RESOURCES

HOST BIO

Magickal Words

Mon, 18 Dec 2023 01:00:00 -0000

Join Neil as he explores the power of words and how they can be used as magic spells to transform our interactions and shape our reality. Neil shares his teaching superpower of using magic words to uplift and inspire his students, starting with a simple question about how fabulous they are today. He discusses the impact of precise language and how it can control the outcome of any conversation or negotiation. Neil also shares personal anecdotes of using magic words in various settings, from the supermarket to the gaming industry, and encourages listeners to discover their own magic words and spells.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Magic words have the power to change minds and distort realities. They can be used to shape outcomes in teaching, coaching, negotiating, and everyday interactions.
Precision language is important in effectively using magic words. Carefully considered and crafted utterances can pivot a person's entire day and have a transformative effect on their life.
By using magic words, such as asking someone how fabulous they are instead of asking how they are doing, you can help shift their mood and create a more positive atmosphere.
Silly and playful language can be used to manipulate or influence others in a positive way. Choosing the right words, such as using "plug your guitar in and make a ton of joyful noise" instead of "practice," can have a significant impact on motivation and engagement.
The power of words can be seen in personal experiences, such as a gaming manager using a few words to transform the speaker's perspective on their job and turn it into a source of enjoyment and entertainment. Magic words can have a profound effect on individuals and their perception of reality.

BEST MOMENTS

"Magic words are words that change minds and distort realities."

"Your words, your carefully considered, honed and crafted utterances can pivot the whole day for a person."

"I'm not going to permit them to track their black mood into the teaching room and stink up the place like they had dog poo on their shoes."

"I'm using humor and language to manipulate them. Ooh, you don't like the word manipulation, do you? I could tell. So let's try the word influence instead."

"Tony waved his hands at the whole gaming floor out there and said look at all these people they've all made a special effort to get dressed up washed and spruced up cleaned up to look good just to come here and see you wow."

VALUABLE RESOURCES

HOST BIO

The Ten Minute Problem Solver

Mon, 11 Dec 2023 01:00:00 -0000

Neil shares a technique that he finds enormously helpful when he has a lot on his mind. Drawing inspiration from various authors and researchers, Neil explains a simple and effective method that only takes 10 minutes. He suggests finding a quiet space, turning off distractions, and using a timer. With pen and paper, Neil encourages listeners to write freely and playfully, capturing any thoughts or ideas that come to mind. The goal is to generate ideas, gain clarity, and uncover solutions to challenges.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

The technique of writing for 10 minutes without stopping can be helpful in generating ideas and finding solutions to challenges.
It is important to create a quiet and distraction-free environment for this writing exercise.
Using quality stationery, such as a nice pen and colored paper, can make the writing process more enjoyable and playful.
Handwriting has been shown to be beneficial for cognitive processes and learning, as it allows for a more direct flow of thoughts compared to typing on a keyboard.
The process of writing without self-editing or self-critiquing can lead to surprising insights and solutions that were already present in the mind.

BEST MOMENTS

"I've stumbled on similar ideas in the works of many authors and researchers."

"Long handwriting forces one to reprocess the subject matter and the flow through a nice pen is much more direct than through a keyboard."

"There's always something useful in there. There's a solution or an idea that helps me to overcome my challenge."

"I call it slaying dragons. It's not that I've got anything against dragons, as I've said before. You see, it's the unicorns I really despise. Those smug, sparkly little bastards."

VALUABLE RESOURCES

HOST BIO

The Great Planning Getaway

Mon, 04 Dec 2023 01:00:00 -0000

In this episode, Neil discusses the importance of taking time to review and plan for the upcoming year in your tutoring business. He emphasises the need to step away from the day-to-day operations and dedicate a few days to reflect on the successes and lessons learned from the past year. Neil provides a structured approach to the review process, including evaluating strengths and weaknesses within the business, considering external factors such as the economy and competition, and setting specific goals for the next year.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Neil suggests setting aside 2-3 days in a quiet location to focus on this task.
Neil emphasises the need to review the past year and identify both successes and lessons learned. This includes reflecting on personal satisfaction, impact on clients or students, and areas of pride or dissatisfaction in the business.
It's important to understand the purpose and mission of your tutoring business. You need to define your values and integrate them into every aspect of your business too.
Neil suggests examining internal factors of the business, such as staff, products/services, systems, marketing, sales, purchases, and financials. Tutors should identify strengths to leverage and weaknesses to improve upon.
It is also important to consider external factors, such as the domestic and global economy, legislation, the employment market, new products/ideas, competition, and marketing. Tutors should identify opportunities to take advantage of and threats to address in their business planning.

BEST MOMENTS

"Money is the byproduct of excellence."

"What's the business's mission? What are we striving to achieve here, guys?"

"Look at your competition. If they're good, they will give you great lessons on how you can do better."

"Get the word out there. As the phrase goes, make it, then tell everyone."

"Remember, you're just figuring out how to make you and your business even more awesome, aren't you?"

VALUABLE RESOURCES

HOST BIO

Let's Talk About Teaching

Mon, 27 Nov 2023 01:00:00 -0000

In this episode, Neil shares some key points from a recent conversation he had with one of his bass guitar students. Beyond music, they talk about the impact of traditional teaching methods on students' perception of learning. Neil emphasises the importance of simplifying concepts, using plain language, and empowering students to be curious. He advocates for going off the syllabus, finding material that interests students, and making the learning process fun. Neil's passion for teaching shines through as he encourages educators to create an enjoyable and engaging environment for their students.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Simplify everything: As teachers, it is important to break down complex concepts and explain them in a way that is easy for students to understand. By using plain and simple language, we can make learning more accessible and enjoyable for our students.
Empower curiosity: Encourage students to ask questions and be curious about the subject matter. Answering their questions and sparking their imagination can lead to deeper understanding and engagement with the material.
Go off the syllabus: Instead of strictly adhering to a syllabus, ask students what they want to learn and find music or material that interests them. This helps to personalise the learning experience and make it more enjoyable for the student.
Make it fun: Learning should be a playful process. Teachers should strive to make their lessons enjoyable and engaging for both themselves and their students. By creating a fun and positive learning environment, students will be more motivated to continue learning.
Avoid using fancy language: Cut out the use of unnecessary jargon and fancy words that can create a barrier between the student and the material. Using plain and simple language helps to make the subject more accessible and relatable to the student.

BEST MOMENTS

"She's a very smart lady... She's funny, energetic, vivacious, million questions and just a bundle of energy."

"Most of her old thinking about music and about herself as a player have been absolutely destroyed... she realises music is much simpler and much easier than she thought."

"She told me that because I break things down and explain why we do something as musicians, she can make sense of it and she can accept it."

"She likes it when I use simple words to explain something... she thinks it's because they're trying to mask something simple behind a wall of fancy words."

"We should be making it fun for our students... if it's not fun for them they won't want to come back and if it's not fun for you to teach every single day is going to be miserable for you."

VALUABLE RESOURCES

www.Neilcowmeadow.com
info@neilcowmeadow.com

HOST BIO

The Comfort Trap

Mon, 20 Nov 2023 00:00:00 -0000

In this episode of The Tutor Podcast, Neil Cowmeadow discusses the danger of falling into the comfort trap. He highlights how success can lead to complacency and a loss of drive, energy, and ambition. Neil emphasizes the importance of staying motivated and avoiding the temptation to relax when things are going well. He shares personal experiences and offers practical advice, such as setting bigger goals and embracing discomfort to maintain growth and success. Neil's no-nonsense approach and insights provide valuable guidance for tutors, teachers, and coaches looking to avoid the pitfalls of comfort and continue thriving in their businesses.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

The comfort trap can be a blindside problem that affects individuals who are experiencing a moderate degree of success. It can lead to a loss of drive, energy, and ambition.
Comfort can blind individuals to potential problems and opportunities. When people become comfortable, they may take their foot off the gas and become complacent, which can lead to missed opportunities and a decline in their work.
It is important to continuously challenge oneself and set bigger goals. By pushing oneself out of their comfort zone and embracing discomfort, individuals can maintain their drive and avoid stagnation.
Deliberately creating pressure and discomfort can be powerful in compelling individuals to do better work and achieve more. By avoiding comfort and embracing challenges, individuals can become stronger and more resilient.
Society often encourages comfort and complacency, but it is important to resist this and strive for personal growth and success. By avoiding the comfort trap and continuously pushing oneself, individuals can avoid decline and achieve their goals.

BEST MOMENTS
"Comfort kills you, it kills you like just like a disease...when you get comfortable, when you're doing all right, when you're making enough money, you strangely figure that you can take your foot off the gas and cruise along a little bit."

"Comfort can blind you to so many things...you might resist the temptation to let go of the one student who's unreliable and hogs a schedule slot that could go to someone who's a better fit, who's more reliable, who doesn't mess you about."

"Taking that comfortable, easily attainable goal to a higher level creates pressure and that will restore your drive and your activity levels."

"Deliberately pressurizing myself into an uncomfortable workload is going to be powerful in compelling me to do better work with more people. That's the whole damn point, isn't it?"

"Do hard things. Set bigger goals...Don't give a toss what society expects. Go out there and slay your dragons, banish your demons and fight to your last day to avoid the slow creeping decline which always accompanies getting comfortable."

Sell It

Mon, 13 Nov 2023 01:00:00 -0000

Neil discusses the importance of selling in the tutoring and coaching business. He acknowledges that many people feel uncomfortable with the idea of being salespeople, but talks about why selling is a skill used by everyone in various aspects of life. Neil shares his own experience of initially being reluctant to sell himself as a guitar teacher, but realising the necessity of selling to grow his business. He explains that selling is not about manipulation, but rather about offering a solution to a customer's problem at a fair price. Neil encourages tutors to overcome any reservations they may have about selling and highlights the importance of effectively communicating the benefits of their services to reach those who need them most.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Selling is a skill used by everyone: Selling is not limited to salespeople but is a skill used by everyone in various aspects of life, including teaching, tutoring, and coaching.
Selling is about solving problems: Selling is not about manipulating or pushing products or services onto people but rather about presenting a solution to their problems at a fair price and removing their resistance to acquiring that solution.
Selling is a moral obligation: If you have the knowledge or expertise to help someone, it is your duty to offer them the solution to their problem. You're doing people a disservice but not offering your solution.
Selling requires listening and understanding: It's important to listen to the customer, eliciting and understanding their problem, and determining if what you offer can help them. This approach ensures that you only offer solutions that fit the customer well.
Selling builds credibility and goodwill: Being honest and transparent in your selling approach can generate immense goodwill with both prospective customers and competitors. By recommending competitors when you are not the right fit for a customer, you position yourself as an honest broker and gain credibility in the process.

BEST MOMENTS

"The Americans are way better at it than us."

"Selling the right way isn't the slippery spiel of the shiny suited weasel."

"I fell in love with selling and it's a wonderful transferable skill that I use day in day out."

"If you can't help them, explain that you're not the right person, or your product isn't a good fit for them."

"You can be the best bloody teacher in the world, but if nobody knows you're there or you can't communicate the benefits to them of you, then you might as well not exist."

www.Neilcowmeadow.com

info@neilcowmeadow.com

One Man's Heaven

Mon, 06 Nov 2023 01:00:00 -0000

Neil explores the concept of success and how it differs for each individual. He shares a conversation he had with a friend about their contrasting definitions of success, highlighting the importance of personal fulfilment and happiness. Neil discusses his own vision of a successful life, which involves teaching, helping others, and building his property businesses. He encourages listeners to reflect on their own definition of success and offers practical advice on how to align their current actions with their desired outcomes.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Success is subjective: Neil highlights that everyone has their own unique definition of success. What may be considered successful for one person may not be the same for another. It emphasises the importance of understanding and defining success on a personal level.
Write down your vision of success: Neil suggests writing down your vision of a perfect day and how you would spend it. This exercise helps to clarify your goals and aspirations, making it easier to identify if you are currently living your ideal life or if changes need to be made.
Be aware of your own standards: By having a clear understanding of your own idea of success, you can better evaluate if you are on the right track or not. This allows you to make course corrections and take actions that align with your personal vision.
Make it personal and present tense: Neil talks about the importance of making your vision of success personal and stating it in the present tense. By doing so, you create a stronger connection to your goals and increase your motivation to achieve them.
Take action towards your perfect day: Once you have identified your vision of success, Neil encourages taking specific actions that will move you closer to your ideal life. This proactive approach helps to bridge the gap between where you are now and where you want to be.

BEST MOMENTS

"My idea of a happy and successful life is to teach what I love to people I adore, to help them make faster progress than I ever did, to fill them with a sense of their own possibilities."

"Everybody's got their own unique definition of success... Matey Boy's is golf, holidays, and cruising. Mine's being useful, being playful, helping people, building a legacy, and making a fat pile of dosh at the same time."

"No two people will share the same definition of what success means to them. So screw what anybody else thinks, let's talk about your vision of success."

"If the answer to the first part is no, I'm not living my perfect life. That's a cue to change trajectory. You have to change something."

"I'm having fun searching out the next property to add to my portfolio. I'll solve other people's property problems, help myself by helping them, by giving them a great deal. And this will all add to my legacy."

www.Neilcowmeadow.com

info@neilcowmeadow.com

A Busy Fool

Mon, 30 Oct 2023 01:00:00 -0000

Neil reflects on his recent realisation that he had become a "busy fool." He confesses that he had allowed himself to get too comfortable and busy with day-to-day tasks, neglecting the bigger picture and strategic thinking. Neil discusses the importance of outsourcing certain tasks and investing in ongoing education to grow your business and build a legacy.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

The speaker confesses to getting comfortable and becoming a "busy fool" by focusing too much on small tasks and neglecting strategic thinking and bigger opportunities.
The speaker realizes the importance of ongoing education and investing in oneself, and acknowledges the missed opportunities and costs of not doing so.
The speaker plans to outsource property maintenance and management, as well as hire a bookkeeper and virtual assistant, in order to free up time for more productive and high-level work.
The speaker emphasizes the value of time and money, stating that having more money allows for the purchase of more time, which can be used for strategic work and building a future or empire.
The speaker encourages listeners to reflect on whether they are simply doing tasks that get done today or if they are actively building a legacy or empire, and invites them to share their thoughts and connect with him for further discussion.

BEST MOMENTS

"I got comfortable... I drifted into being a busy fool."

"I'd let the things which matter most fall at the mercy of the things which matter least."

"I just recognized that I'd missed so many opportunities because I'd been too operational, too small scale, too bloody busy to think bigger and grow the business."

"The most important work for the next quarter is to get off the tools and free myself to work on the business and not in the business."

"The more money you have, the more time you can buy back... And you can use that time to go and do high level work."

VALUABLE RESOURCES
www.Neilcowmeadow.com

CONTACT DETAILS
info@neilcowmeadow.com

ABOUT THE HOST
Neil Cowmeadow is a maverick peripatetic guitar teacher from Telford with over 19 years’ experience in the business of helping people. Learn how to start, grow and love your business with Neil’s invaluable advice and tips without the buzzwords and BS!

The Money in your Mind

Sun, 22 Oct 2023 23:00:00 -0000

In this episode of The Tutor Podcast, Neil Cameron delves into the topic of money and explores its true nature and the beliefs surrounding it. He emphasizes that money is a neutral tool, a means of exchange that amplifies who we are. Neil challenges the common misconceptions about money and encourages listeners to change their beliefs and mindset about wealth. He shares personal experiences and insights, highlighting the importance of financial education and surrounding oneself with successful, wealthy individuals. Ultimately, Neil aims to empower listeners to take control of their financial lives and make money work for them.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Money is a neutral tool: Money is not inherently good or evil, but rather a means to make transactions and exchange value between people. It is like a knife that can be used for good or bad purposes depending on how it is wielded.
Money amplifies who you are: If you are a kind and generous person, having more money allows you to do more good and help others. Conversely, if you are selfish or irresponsible, having more money will only amplify those negative traits.
Beliefs about money shape your relationship with it: Your beliefs about money, whether positive or negative, greatly influence your financial success. If you believe that money is evil or hard to come by, you will struggle to acquire and keep it. It is important to change negative beliefs and adopt a positive mindset towards money.
Learn from successful wealthy people: Seek advice and insights from successful and wealthy individuals who have achieved financial success. Read books, listen to podcasts, and surround yourself with people who have a positive relationship with money. Avoid taking money advice from those who are not financially successful.
Education and action are key: Take the initiative to educate yourself about money, investing, and building wealth. Invest in your own financial education and take action every day to improve your financial situation. Money is a tool that can empower you to make better choices and help others, so it is important to actively work towards financial success.

BEST MOMENTS

"Money is neutral. It's not good, it's not bad, it's like a knife that cuts bread or stabs someone. How you use it, or how you get used by it, that's the interesting part to me."

"Money isn't good. It isn't evil. It's just neutral. What it actually is, is kind of an amplifier. As I said before, it just amplifies who you are."

"Don't take money advice from poor people."

"People who talk about money in that kind of way, people who tell you that money isn't important, don't have any money."

"Get yourself a financial education. I spend thousands of pounds every single year on my own education because education is way cheaper than ignorance."

ABOUT THE HOST

www.Neilcowmeadow.com

info@neilcowmeadow.com

DDWT Revisited

Mon, 16 Oct 2023 00:00:00 -0000

Neil shares his two golden rules for a happy and successful life, both at work and outside of it. The first rule is to avoid doing things that make you miserable, while the second rule is to not deal with "tossers" or difficult people. Neil discusses the importance of removing unsatisfactory people from your schedule and surrounding yourself with more positive and enjoyable individuals, encouraging listeners to identify and eliminate one "tosser" from their own lives!

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Rule one for a happy and joyous life is to not do things that make you miserable. This applies to both work and personal life.
Rule two is to not deal with "tossers" or unsatisfactory people. It is important to avoid working with individuals who make you unhappy or drain your energy.
Identifying and eliminating tossers from your schedule is crucial for maximizing your time and working with more satisfying and enjoyable individuals.
It is not necessary to feel guilty about removing tossers from your life. By doing so, you are creating space for better fits and more positive experiences.
The mission is to locate and fire one tosser from your schedule, freeing up time to work with nicer, happier people and enhancing your teaching experience.

BEST MOMENTS

"Don't deal with tossers or DDWT for short."

"Having something like that on your schedule darkens your day. It's like a cloud on the horizon."

"He immediately got the grump and asked me if I knew who he was and how big his company was… he would have been a total pain to deal with."

"The whole organisation failed the DDWT test."

"Look at your schedule right now and play spot the tosser… every hour they fill up on your schedule is an hour you can't spend with better students, with nicer people, with happier people."

www.Neilcowmeadow.com

info@neilcowmeadow.com

Exploring Effective Strategies: Eroding and Exploding Tasks

Sun, 08 Oct 2023 23:00:00 -0000

Neil takes a closer look at two ways to get stuff done: erosion and explosion. He talks about how erosion is like chipping away at a task bit by bit, kinda like a stream slowly carving a path in a rock. On the flip side, explosion is all about going all-in and tackling a task with a big burst of energy in a short time.

Neil spills the beans on his own experiences, like teaching, growing his property stash, and staying fit. He really drives home the idea that it's super important to make a plan, set some deadlines, and carve out time to get things done, no matter which way you choose.

He's all about trying out both methods, but he's got a soft spot for the slow and steady approach, where you grind away at things over time. So, give it a whirl and see which one floats your boat!

KEY TAKEAWAYS

There are two approaches to getting tasks done: eroding the task over time and exploding the task in a short period of time. Both approaches can be effective depending on the situation.
Eroding the task involves consistently working on it day after day, week after week, gradually wearing it down over a long period of time. This approach is sustainable and can lead to significant results over time.
Exploding the task involves taking massive action and total focus on the task in a short period of time. This approach is useful for dealing with crises or when a task requires intense concentration and effort.
It is important to be aware of the task at hand and create a plan to achieve it, regardless of the approach chosen. This includes setting deadlines, blocking out time for the work, and working from a schedule rather than a to-do list.
While both approaches can be effective, the erosive approach (consistently working on the task over time) may be more sustainable and less stressful in the long run. It allows for flexibility and the ability to say yes to other activities and people.

BEST MOMENTS

"There are two extremes of behavior when it comes to taking care of tasks and goals we set ourselves."
"Eroding the task means wearing it down day after day, week after week over a very long period of time."
"Explosive approaches like this do work, but they tend to be a one and done sort of thing."
"By scheduling those task-eroding activities into my weekly and daily plans, I find that I can reap the benefits of constant, frequent repetition."
"I'll grind the task or the problem into dust. That's frankly where most of my best results have come from."

ABOUT THE HOST

www.Neilcowmeadow.com

info@neilcowmeadow.com

An Organised Idiot (My bloody Filofax, PART Two)

Sun, 01 Oct 2023 23:00:00 -0000

This is part two of Neil sharing his organisational strategies and insights for running a successful tutoring business as well as his love for a Filofax! Neil emphasises the importance of doing a brain dump to get all thoughts and tasks out of your head and onto paper. He then explains his process of sorting tasks based on importance, urgency, and consequence. Neil also highlights the significance of setting long-term goals and breaking them down into smaller, manageable chunks. He encourages listeners to schedule their tasks and activities in a diary, allowing for better time management and control over their daily lives.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Writing everything down on paper can greatly reduce the chances of missing important information or forgetting tasks. Using a physical planner, like a Filofax, allows for easy visibility and quick reference.
Setting goals is crucial for success. By having clear goals and constantly thinking about them, our brains become more attuned to opportunities that will help us achieve those goals.
Break down long-term goals into smaller, more manageable chunks. This helps to create milestones and progress along the way. Setting one-year goals that align with the larger goals can provide a sense of direction and focus.
Use a monthly planning session to set specific goals for the upcoming month. Break these goals down into weekly tasks and allocate time in your schedule to work on them. This helps to ensure that important tasks are prioritized and completed.
Delegate tasks that you don't want to do, can't do, or are not the best use of your time. Learning to delegate effectively can free up time for more important and strategic activities.

BEST MOMENTS

"I call myself an organized idiot. So let's look inside the file of facts and see how I get organised because that's really not my nature."

"If it's written down on paper right in front of you and you see it at a glance… the chances of me and you missing something or forgetting a vital piece of information is hugely reduced."

"Set your goals big… Write them down. Get some detail on it. Describe where you want to be, who you want to be with, what you're doing. Think about what it tastes, smells like, feels like."

"If you start every day with no semblance of a plan, the chances of you achieving success are basically the zip."

"This system works for me… It keeps my inner idiot in order and takes care of the most important things first by just setting blocks of time aside so I can actually get those things done."

www.Neilcowmeadow.com

info@neilcowmeadow.com

My Bloody Filofax

Sun, 24 Sep 2023 23:00:00 -0000

Neil discusses the value of writing things down and the power of having a plan. He shares his personal experience of using a Filofax, a physical planner, to organise his life and stay productive. Neil emphasises the benefits of writing longhand and how it activates the brain, aids memory retention, and accelerates learning. He questions the trend of relying on laptops in education when research shows the effectiveness of pen and paper. Neil encourages listeners to design their lives through planning and shares his own process of visualising and writing down what constitutes a good day for him.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

The use of a physical planner, such as a Filofax, can be beneficial for organization and productivity. Despite the prevalence of digital calendars, having a tangible planner allows for easier access and avoids technological issues.
Writing things down by hand activates more of the brain and aids in learning, idea generation, and memory retention. This is supported by research and suggests that using pen and paper is more effective than relying solely on laptops or digital devices.
Planning ahead and creating a daily, weekly, or monthly schedule can reduce stress and increase productivity. By visualizing and writing down what a successful day would look like, individuals can better prioritize tasks and focus on what is most important.
Luck is not simply a matter of chance, but rather the result of preparation meeting opportunity. By designing and following a plan, individuals can create their own luck and increase their chances of success.
The act of writing, reviewing, and acting on what is written can have a transformative effect on one's life. By consistently following a plan and taking action, individuals can see their goals and aspirations come to fruition.

BEST MOMENTS

"I love working on paper, it keeps me sane, it keeps me grounded, stops me forgetting things."

"The act of writing longhand, with a pen no less, activates more of the brain and accelerates learning."

"Memorisation is not education. Not by a long chalk."

"Luck is what happens when preparation meets opportunity."

"The magic isn't in the branding or that lovely leather binder. It's in the act of writing, longhand, then reviewing and acting on what you've written day after day."

Jacking The RAS

Sun, 17 Sep 2023 23:00:00 -0000

Neil explores the concept of the reticular activating system (RAS) and how it can be harnessed to achieve goals more effectively. Neil explains that the RAS is a filtering mechanism in the brain that determines what information is important and worthy of attention. By setting clear goals and affirming them daily, individuals can activate their RAS to seek out and notice opportunities and evidence that align with their goals. Neil also introduces the idea of confirmations, which involve actively observing and documenting instances that support one's goals. By implementing this feedback loop of goal-setting, affirmation, and confirmation, listeners can enhance their belief systems and manifest their desired outcomes. Neil encourages listeners to try this approach and shares his own experiences of its effectiveness.

The reticular activating system (RAS) is a small network of neurons in the brainstem that plays a crucial role in attention, focus, and motivation.
The RAS acts as a filtering mechanism, allowing only information that it considers important to pass through to the brain.
When we have a specific belief or goal, the RAS becomes more attuned to noticing information and sensory data that align with that belief or goal.
Setting clear outcome goals and process goals is essential for achieving success in a tutoring business.
Using affirmations and confirmations can help strengthen beliefs and reinforce the RAS's focus on bringing more of what is considered important into one's life.

The Process

Set Goals:
1. Specific – eg hours taught per week
2. Written down
3. Present tense
4. What I want – not what I think someone else want for me
5. See yourself doing the things which produce progress toward the outcome goals
6. Have quantifiable results – eg the number of new students recruited per month
7. Visualise taking the call from a new student and adding them to your tribe
8. Design the perfect execution of the activity
9. Outcome goals – e.g., to have a full roster of guitar students and a waiting list to study with me
10. Process goals – the activities which will bring me the outcome goals
Read and/or re-write your outcome goals every day – the well-known idea of affirmations. Add emotion of any kind to those affirmations and kindle the interest of the RAS: if you’re excited, fearful, anxious or whatever, the emotion you use will goose the RAS and prompt it to allow what we want to be noticed. This is all well and groovy – and it works, to a point
CONFIRMATIONS
1. Take note of information and sensory data which relate to your process and outcome goals
2. Write them down, either immediately or as part of your day-end review and shutdown routine
3. This simple act loops back to the RAS and encourages it to gather more of that good stuff
4. Tomorrow the RAS will be even better at bringing you more of what you believe – strengthening your belief in whatever you’ve decided is significant to you
Refine your goals: in light of all this confirmatory data, recalibrate your goals and update your affirmations

BEST MOMENTS

"And if we can figure that out, how do we use it to get more of what we want, to get it faster and to get it with less effort?" - Neil Cameron

"The RAS actually rejects vast amounts of sensory information, prevents it from reaching the brain. It only allows information that it considers important to pass." - Neil Cameron

"I think it's really important to read and probably rewrite your outcome goals every day. I do mine every day. This is the well-known idea of affirmations." - Neil Cameron

"If affirmations work, confirmations turn up the turbo boost. A confirmation is really taking note of information and sensory data which relate to the process and outcome goals." - Neil Cameron

"Once you've given it a go, drop me a line. I always love to hear from you guys, because I'm here to learn from you. I'm here to help, to share what I've learned so far on my journey." - Neil Cameron

VALUABLE RESOURCES
The Tutor Podcast
www.Neilcowmeadow.com

CONTACT METHOD
info@neilcowmeadow.com

ABOUT THE HOST
Neil Cowmeadow is a maverick peripatetic guitar teacher from Telford with over 19 years’ experience in the business of helping people. Learn how to start, grow and love your business with Neil’s invaluable advice and tips without the buzzwords and BS!

The Art of Simple: How Teaching Guitar Can Change Lives

Sun, 10 Sep 2023 23:00:00 -0000

In this episode, I'm excited to share two heartwarming stories of the impact my teaching has had on my students. One of my former students credits me with changing his life through guitar lessons, which ultimately led him to pursue a successful career as a professional musician. Another student, who visited from the US, commends me for simplifying the complexities of playing the guitar, making it easy to understand and master.
I firmly believe in the power of minimalism, striving for maximum return on investment for my students.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

The power of simplicity: The podcast emphasises the importance of simplifying teaching methods and language to make it easier for students to understand and learn. The host believes in stripping away unnecessary complexity and focusing on the core principles.
Impactful teaching: The podcast shares a story of a former student whose life was profoundly changed by the host's teaching of guitar. The student went on to become a professional musician and credits the host for his success.
Making it easy: The host believes that the role of a teacher is to make learning easy for students. They aim to simplify the learning process and provide tools that enable students to play the music they want to play with less effort.
Rejecting pretentiousness: The host expresses a disregard for academic and pretentious language in teaching. They prioritise plain and simple language over fancy words and esoteric concepts. The focus is on practicality and effectiveness.
Continuous improvement: The host emphasises the importance of constantly refining and improving teaching methods. They strive to make their system leaner, slicker, and more useful, always seeking maximum return on investment for their students.

BEST MOMENTS
"He verified my identity and then said, I just want to say thank you to you. He said, the way you changed my life through your teaching of guitar has been profound."
"That's the sign of a really great teacher. They take something complicated and difficult and make it simple."
"I know that approach will upset many academics and it will really annoy the dyed in the wall old fashioned traditional types. But frankly, I couldn't give a monkey's."
"Her job and my job as teachers is to make it easy. Period."
"The writer Antoine de Saint-Exupéry put it beautifully when he said, perfection is achieved not when there is nothing more to add but when there is nothing left to take away."

Perfectly Ridiculous

Sun, 03 Sep 2023 23:00:00 -0000

In this episode, Neil Cameron tackles the topic of perfectionism and its impact on students. Neil shares his own perspective on embracing imperfection and highlights the fear that many students have of being anything less than perfect. He emphasises the importance of playfulness as a superpower for teachers, explaining how it can help students overcome their fear of imperfection and create a more enjoyable learning experience. Encouraging tutors, teachers, and coaches to have fun with their subjects, be silly, and not take themselves too seriously, as this can help students feel more at ease and open to learning. By fostering a playful environment, Neil believes that both teachers and students can thrive and experience the joy of learning.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Perfectionism is a common struggle for students, causing them to fear being imperfect and preventing them from trying new things.
The norm of learning less and less is becoming prevalent due to the fear of imperfection and the overwhelming prospect of beginning something new.
Playfulness is a powerful tool for teachers to help students overcome perfectionism and fear of imperfection.
By being silly, playful, and having fun with subjects, teachers can create a lighter atmosphere for students and encourage them to be more open and less critical of themselves.
When both the teacher and the student are having fun during lessons, learning becomes more enjoyable and effective, leading to peak moments of flow and better overall outcomes.

BEST MOMENTS
"I'm totally well adjusted to being imperfect, to being gloriously bad at stuff to begin with and progressively less bad over time."
"Even Japanese kids are lousy at speaking Japanese to begin with, aren't they? Doesn't stop them trying though."
"And here's the paradox as far as I see it. We've all learned this perfectionism paradigm, but we weren't perfect at perfectionism to begin with."
"Because if you take that deal, it's pretty much guaranteeing failure to even start. Because the prospect of beginning the new thing and being imperfect at it, well actually being bloody awful at it to begin with, overwhelms most people to the point that they don't even try."
"And that's why fewer and fewer people are trying new things. And the norm now seems to be to learn less and less."

VALUABLE RESOURCES
www.Neilcowmeadow.com

CONTACT DETAILS
info@neilcowmeadow.com

ABOUT THE HOST
Neil Cowmeadow is a maverick peripatetic guitar teacher from Telford with over 19 years’ experience in the business of helping people. Learn how to start, grow and love your business with Neil’s invaluable advice and tips without the buzzwords and BS!

Looking After Number One

Mon, 28 Aug 2023 00:00:00 -0000

Neil delves into the often overlooked aspect of self-care for driven entrepreneurial individuals. He emphasises the importance of prioritising oneself and taking care of personal health and well-being. Neil shares his own experiences and insights, highlighting the detrimental effects of neglecting self-care on both personal and professional aspects of life. He encourages listeners to schedule downtime, engage in physical activity, cook nutritious meals, and spend quality time with loved ones. Neil also emphasises the need to detach from negative influences such as media and politics for mental well-being. Ultimately, he emphasises that self-care is not selfish but rather a necessary foundation for success in business and life.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Taking care of ourselves should be a top priority as tutors, teachers, or coaches. Neglecting our own health and well-being can have negative consequences for our business and relationships.
It is essential to schedule downtime and allocate resources for self-care. This includes activities like exercising, spending time with loved ones, and enjoying personal hobbies.
Avoid letting your business mission take over and encroach on your self-care time. Set boundaries and prioritise your own well-being.
Cook your own food and prioritise healthy eating. Avoid fast food and make a shopping list of nutritious ingredients.
Detach yourself from fear-mongering media and negative influences. Take care of your mental health by removing negative sources and focusing on the positive aspects of life.

BEST MOMENTS

"Making ourselves top of the list and the most important thing we must do every single day."

"If you're messed up, how can you be good for your business or for your customers?"

"If someone else is more important than you, you don't really have a life."

"Whatever else is happening in your life and your business, there's one common component central to everything that you do. And that's you."

"Looking after number one is the priority one. Everything else relies on it. Because everything begins with you."

Early Birds, Night Owls and Vampires

Sun, 20 Aug 2023 23:00:00 -0000

Neil delves into his unique perspective on the renowned book "The 5AM Club" by Robin Sharma. Neil charmingly categorizes individuals as larks, night owls, or even daring vampires, all while emphasizing the significance of personal rhythms over rigid routines. He underscores that success thrives not solely in the crack of dawn, but in one's ability to shape their environment, concentrate deeply, and manage tasks and engagements. Neil warmly invites listeners to explore diverse approaches and exchange their stories. Ultimately, Neil offers a down-to-earth stance on tailoring the perfect formula for success within the realm of tutoring entrepreneurship.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

The 5AM Club by Robin Sharma promotes the idea of waking up early and following a structured morning routine before the rest of the world gets busy. While this approach may work for some, it is not the only morally correct way to start the day.
It is important to work with your own natural predisposition towards being a morning lark, a late night owl, or somewhere in between. Whether you are a lark or a vampire (night owl), you can still achieve success by taking time for yourself, isolating yourself, and focusing on activities of high value when there are no distractions.
The core truth of the 5am Club is not about the specific time you wake up, but rather about isolation, focus, and control. Having routines and systems in place to take care of business while nobody else is looking is what truly matters.
The book may have a tacit attitude towards non-5am Club members, making it seem like there is something wrong with them. However, it is important to remember that everyone has their own natural rhythms and ways of working that can lead to success.
Ultimately, it is up to each individual to find what works best for them and their own unique circumstances. Experimenting with different waking and working schedules, and finding a routine that allows for isolation, focus, and control, can lead to personal and professional growth.

BEST MOMENTS

"Getting up at 5AM and immediately running your same structured morning routine before the rest of the world gets busy and starts making demands on you will change your life."
"These people are the larks and the wannabe larks. Those annoying gits who wake up early with a big smile on their face, ready to go and seize the day."
"Maybe I should write the 3am Club. The nocturnal antidote to Robin Sharma's smug larkery."
"Larks do get things done before the world's up. They're five miles down the road before the world has got its boots on. But the vampires, that's us, we work deep into the small hours when everybody else is lost in their dreams."
"It's not the time of day you wake up that matters. It's your ability to isolate yourself, to focus and control your activities and your interactions. That's the 5am club's core truth."

ABOUT THE HOST

www.Neilcowmeadow.com

info@neilcowmeadow.com

Other People

Mon, 14 Aug 2023 00:00:00 -0000

People are by far the most complex conundrum for anyone to ever face. People are invariably the root of any problem that challenges and vexes us. Neil takes a look at the eternal walking mystery that is other people.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Take away the humans from almost any situation and most of the problems go away.
People bring problems, but our ability to help them is a possible rich opportunity.
If you find yourself in the presence of a control freak, narcissist or gaslighter, do yourself a favour and extricate yourself promptly.
There is no amount of money worth being made completely miserable by another toxic human being.

BEST MOMENTS

‘People are without doubt the most complex, baffling, vile, beautiful, perfect, flawed, adorable, intriguing, savage, noble, mendacious and honest organisms in the cosmos.’

‘Some people are not good opportunities. The person may be just an opportunity to spend time with someone you don’t like.’

‘Don’t waste your life on a person who is a fixer-upper.’

VALUABLE RESOURCES

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

Don't Worry About Worrying

Sun, 06 Aug 2023 23:00:00 -0000

Almost everyone worries. From niggling concerns to full-on, sleep-crippling, progress-crushing hand-wringing, we are all sidetracked and stymied by possible disastrous outcomes that may happen or may not happen. Neil gives his take on worry and the futility of constantly considering future catastrophes and some alternatives to this drain on your time.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

If we are fixated on future events we rob ourselves of the joy of the present moment.
Worrying is a habit that gains us nothing.
While we are worrying, we cannot deal with current problems and make long-term plans.
You may begin to expect things to go wrong. Worry solidifies the expectation of failure.

BEST MOMENTS
‘That dismal, catastrophic future burns all our time and energy that we have right now that we could be better using to create different future outcomes.’
‘Very often the flip side of worrying is that we can become so over-awed by what we’ve worried into existence in our own mind that we become paralysed by it.’
‘Write down your current assessment of the reality that you’re dealing with. Take a little time and write down your worst-case outcome, the very thing you’ve worried into existence.’
‘Block some time in and mark it ‘worry hour’. If you know that you must sit and worry about a problem for an hour, or two hours or more, you’ll immediately get total clarity on whether that’s a good use of your time.’

VALUABLE RESOURCES
The Tutor Podcast
www.Neilcowmeadow.com

CONTACT METHOD
info@neilcowmeadow.com

Retirement or Not

Sun, 30 Jul 2023 23:00:00 -0000

Neil tackles the difficult decision of when to quit work and retire. This is often not only influenced by finances but also societal pressures, family, health and your own love for your job. He shares his thoughts on this landmark point in most of our lives.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

What we do is part of our identity.
Retirement can be the start of a mental and physical decline.
Work can provide an active brain and a sense of achievement.
If we choose to continue to work we can continue to pass on our skills, insight and knowledge.
Say no to golf!!

BEST MOMENTS
‘I believe there are significant downsides to retirement as envisaged by my parent’s generations.’
‘The state pension system is bankrupt now and has been bankrupt for decades.’
‘Over the working life that we all have we tend to accrue a vast body of knowledge, a wealth of insight and understanding. If we retire, all of that knowledge, insight and understanding is removed from circulation.’

VALUABLE RESOURCES
The Tutor Podcast
www.Neilcowmeadow.com

CONTACT METHOD
info@neilcowmeadow.com

What 100 Stupid Things

Sun, 23 Jul 2023 23:00:00 -0000

The key question you should ask yourself is ‘What are the 100 stupid things that I’m doing that really muck things up?’ Neil encourages you to take the time to give real thought to the truth.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Honesty is important to find your worst stupid things.
Do not stop until you have at least 100.
The counterpart question is ‘What are the 100 smart things that I’m not doing?’

BEST MOMENTS

‘I want you to charge at it!’

‘This is going to be an uncomfortable process if you do it right.’

‘Objectivity is tough because we all rationalise a lot of the stupid things we do.’

‘Just trade one bad thing that you are doing for one good thing that you can start doing.”

VALUABLE RESOURCES

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

What To Say When You Talk To Yourself

Sun, 16 Jul 2023 23:00:00 -0000

Neil explains the concept of scripts, the simple and powerful tool for defining all things that you would like to have and be, and that are particularly good when used by people with poor self-image, low motivation or lack of direction.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

A script should be properly written down and consistent and should be read aloud at least twice a day. We tend to manifest the things we say.
Begin with the idea of anything you want to come true for yourself. Write in the present tense, ‘I am..’ to reinforce the statement. You will naturally in your actions begin to assume the virtue that you aspire to.
Incorporate your goals and target date them.

BEST MOMENTS
‘I’ll ask them to read it aloud at least twice a day. First thing in the morning to prime the mind for the day. Almost like giving them a prod and saying, remember this? Then last thing at night is to program the unconscious mind for integration of those ideas whilst sleeping.’
’How will you know you’re failing if there’s no parameter for success or failure?’
‘Try it on yourself guys. Write yourself a script if you feel that you are lacking in purpose or if you fear making mistakes or you don’t really have your direction sorted out.’

VALUABLE RESOURCES
The Tutor Podcast
www.Neilcowmeadow.com

CONTACT METHOD
info@neilcowmeadow.com

Reliability - Do What You Say You'll Do

Sun, 09 Jul 2023 23:00:00 -0000

Neil explains the absolute importance of sticking to your word especially when it comes to your work and the advantages you can gain if people know they can rely on you.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Reliability is the foundation of everything a tutor does.
If we have to make sacrifices to be reliable, so be it.
Unreliability is a crippling reputation to have.

BEST MOMENTS
‘This got me thinking about reliability and the role it plays for us as tutors, teachers, coaches and all the other areas of our lives, both business and personal.’
’We have to be completely reliable to be useful to our students. We have to be there for them, deliver our very best to them every single time we say we are going to be there.’
‘Who is best for the student? A really great teacher who isn’t there, or an adequately good teacher who is there?’

VALUABLE RESOURCES
The Tutor Podcast
www.Neilcowmeadow.com

CONTACT METHOD
info@neilcowmeadow.com

A Pocketful of Evil

Sun, 02 Jul 2023 23:00:00 -0000

Most of us carry with us everywhere one of the most corrosive, divisive, wasteful and narcissistic forms of evil currently affecting modern society. Wherever you go, you have an electronic tag and listening device with you stealing your focus, time, energy and attention. Neil reminds us of how much better things could be if we cut the cord to the mobile phone.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Despite laws to the contrary, people are addicted to their phones and still drive while using them.
Social media is corrosive with little hits of positive dopamine which are not set in reality.
The unity of the family is being eroded by the mobile phone.
Give yourself, and others, time away from your mobile phone. The world will not collapse without your connection to it.

BEST MOMENTS
‘I had several near misses recently with distracted pedestrians. They’re wandering around in a dream world, they’ve got their earbuds in, watching videos or texting, not looking where they’re going..’
‘It takes you away from real life. The face-to-face communication you engage with other people should matter more to you than your online audience.’
‘I’m not saying the phone isn’t useful as a tool. What I am saying is that it’s a bloody problem when it becomes the dominant presence in somebody’s life.’
‘Are you hooked on your phone? What’s it doing for you really?’

VALUABLE RESOURCES
The Tutor Podcast
www.Neilcowmeadow.com

CONTACT METHOD
info@neilcowmeadow.com

Test Everything

Sun, 25 Jun 2023 23:00:00 -0000

Neil explains the need to test any new idea, method, acquisition or project to confirm its efficiency within your setup and to consistently keep abreast of your measurables.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Change is the one true constant.
Testing can help you eliminate less effective methods and replace them with more favourable ones.
You cannot manage what you don’t measure.

BEST MOMENTS

‘Looking at life in general I think that everything that you’re currently doing is only a trial. It’s an extended test of a behaviour.’

‘Write a plan so you can catch up on your weak points, so you can reinforce and maximise your strengths.’

‘Test everything! Have a bash at it and see how this testing mindset works for you.’

VALUABLE RESOURCES

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

Build Tomorrow Today

Sun, 18 Jun 2023 23:00:00 -0000

Neil reveals his secret to ensuring the productive use of your time and resources every day. Before you settle in, however, grab yourself a pen and paper, because this is the equipment you will need to achieve a daily, focused, worthwhile effort in the running of your business.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Every day needs a plan.
A plan is nothing unless it is written down.
If you follow a written plan you are less likely to be distracted.
Prioritise your tasks in order of necessity if you think time is a problem.

BEST MOMENTS
‘As your attention is drawn onto the latest problem, crisis or bright shiny thing the chances of you achieving what you set out to do at the start of the day are massively diminished.’
‘I’m a fan of paper because paper doesn’t crash. How many times have you lost data on your phone or tablet or some other device that’s just gone upside down and doesn’t work anymore.’
‘It’s so much easier to get a list down on paper the night before so you literally just step into tomorrow.’

VALUABLE RESOURCES
The Tutor Podcast
www.Neilcowmeadow.com

CONTACT METHOD
info@neilcowmeadow.com

Two Students, Five Decades, One Problem

Sun, 11 Jun 2023 23:00:00 -0000

Neil’s favourite acronym, False Evidence Appearing Real, fear is the focus of this episode. With two very different students fifty years apart in age suffering the same problem, Neil focuses on this very common and familiar block to progress with two different strategies to overcome the problem.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

You may need differing strategies for different students.
By using the student’s personal interests and philosophies to communicate you can overcome their doubts more effectively.
Be ready when you overcome fear for others to be envious.
The nature of fear changes from person to person.

BEST MOMENTS
‘It’s fear of getting it wrong, fear of making a mistake and, ultimately, fear of even trying.’
‘Figuring out who she is, I'm going to try to use her world view. The crystal pendant that she wears suggests to me very strongly that she’s what I call ‘spiritually interested.’
‘The masses are invariably too afraid to take a shot at it. All they want to do is stay in their little comfort zones and as you and I both know, that’s where dreams go to die.’
‘All we did was take what was there, the feeling in his stomach that he assumed was fear, gave him a different suggestion that worked a little bit better.’

VALUABLE RESOURCES
The Tutor Podcast
www.Neilcowmeadow.com

CONTACT METHOD
info@neilcowmeadow.com

The RUSH Model

Sun, 04 Jun 2023 23:00:00 -0000

Neil shares with you the RUSH model. RUSH stands for Ruthless, Unflinching, Self Honesty. This is his core philosophy for building a robust self-image and attitude towards any useful and worthwhile project, task or opportunity.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Exercise an unflinching and dispassionate attitude towards oneself to attain a rational viewpoint of your position.
Stay steady and forthright when meeting problems of your psyche.
No one else can do this for you.
Tell the truth to yourself and avoid self-delusion.

BEST MOMENTS

‘Expect pain. Expect grief and expect to suffer. Be ruthless.’

‘Get to know that shadow. Get to know that inner enemy so well then you can dance with that dark power and you can harness it and let it drive you away from your own dark side.’

‘Nice doesn’t work on its own. Nice is an empty velvet glove, utterly limp and impotent without the iron fist that is its necessary counterpart.’

‘Truth is simple. Truth is lazy. Truth is efficient. Truth is effective. Truth is eternal, it resists the assaults of time and the slander of fools.’

VALUABLE RESOURCES

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

Tell Your Story, Warts and All

Sun, 28 May 2023 23:00:00 -0000

It may not be a completely good idea to forget, obfuscate or deny our failings on our journey to being an expert in our field. Although it seems like a good idea to only present the positive, Neil explains the advantages of being open and honest about our past failures and mistakes in the content of our teaching.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Honesty builds a bridge between you and your students.
Students will be more confident and hopeful to see you have overcome your past difficulties as they are currently.
You will be making it clear that they are not the problem. Difficulties should be expected and overcome.

BEST MOMENTS

‘If he told them that he hadn’t always been an expert they might somehow assume that he wasn’t an expert after all.’

‘To my tiny and thoroughly addled mind, it makes absolute sense to share with my own students the sad, twisted story of my own appalling lack of talent, my own frustration and utter bewilderment.’

‘Every day I remorselessly manipulate…er..sorry..influence them so that they can get out of their own way and get more of what they want in music and in life.’

VALUABLE RESOURCES

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

Fuggettaboutit

Sun, 21 May 2023 23:00:00 -0000

How is it possible that in so many tutor’s experiences a student claims to forget everything they have learned as soon as they leave the teaching room? Neil shares his theories on this puzzling phenomena of instantly vanishing memory.

KEY THEORIES

Maybe the lesson hasn’t been embedded properly by the tutor.
The student may be resistant to learning for their own reasons.
There could be a conflict in the student’s beliefs and how they visualise themselves.
Your teaching room and yourself have secret magical powers that imbue the student with knowledge which is then mystically removed when they leave.

BEST MOMENTS

‘It’s possible that I've not made the ideas stick enough, that I haven’t put it in a form that is inescapable for them.’

‘Students frequently tell you that they understand something when they don’t because they don’t want to look stupid. We need always to make them feel safe and know that if they don’t understand something it’s not because they’re stupid, it’s because they don’t understand it yet.’

‘When they go home they start to argue with themselves about what they did and begin to dismiss it.’

‘The language used will massively affect the perception of the experience that’s being coded and understood via that language.’

VALUABLE RESOURCES

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

Intellectual Property & Copyright

Sun, 14 May 2023 23:00:00 -0000

In light of the recent Ed Sheeran’s recent success in court defending himself against a spurious copyright claim, Neil takes a look at Intellectual Property and Copyright in the UK and how it applies to tutoring in terms of teaching tools and materials.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Tutors get to add their flavour and slant to the materials they teach. These materials are a tangible asset to you and your business, your Intellectual Property.
Copyright is an automatic legal basis that says that if you create it, it belongs to you.
It is a good idea to put ‘Copyright of’ and your name and the year on all the materials that you produce for your teaching.
Marking yourself as creator solidifies your image as an expert.

BEST MOMENTS

‘Unless you’re content to just play through standard texts and, in my opinion, go through the motions you’ll doubtless be creating your own teaching materials; examples, explanations, diagrams, exercises, stories, music and so on.’

‘Let’s say you write an explanation of a concept in your own words. And, hey presto, that particular form of words is yours and yours alone.’

‘If they do (nick your stuff) you’ll have records and timestamps all over the metadata of anything that you’ve created on a computer.’

VALUABLE RESOURCES

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

Evil Genius Me

Sun, 07 May 2023 23:00:00 -0000

Neil shares his evil genius with you in this episode explaining how, when you overturn your student’s expectations, difficulties and complexities so extensively that they sit there open-mouthed, it really makes your tutoring job worthwhile.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Simplify. Simplify. Simplify.
Peel away the complexity and present the core of an idea.
Resistance exists when there is no clarity.

BEST MOMENTS

‘Sometimes the things that are the most stripped back and simplified have the greatest impact and help the students to move past the limits that they thought they had.’

‘I’ve actually been called an evil genius twice today by two students whilst sharing with them, in separate lessons, a simple idea that really allowed them to dominate the fretboard and produce cool-sounding improvised guitar solos.’

‘They had incontrovertible proof that it was simple and doable. Oooh, evil me!’

VALUABLE RESOURCES

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

My Get Rich Slow Scheme

Sun, 30 Apr 2023 23:00:00 -0000

Neil addresses the myth of getting rich quickly and explains the reality of getting rich slowly.

He’s done the latter himself so he’s here to explain to you how.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

From today you could decide to become wealthy, whatever that means to you. Write down your target, think medium to long term, and remind yourself daily.
Discipline and dedicate your efforts to achieving this, keeping up your effort and avoiding distractions.
Shut out the doubters.
Invest in yourself and educate yourself in the ways of money and finance.

BEST MOMENTS

‘That really leaves us with getting rich slowly. Sounds sort of meh, doesn’t it? But here’s the thing, it’s possible.’

‘Can you open your mind to possibility?’

‘Invest any savings you may have in low-risk, high return tax efficient schemes to increase your tax flow.’

VALUABLE RESOURCES

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

Energise Your Network

Sun, 23 Apr 2023 23:00:00 -0000

The people in your network, your friends, your family, your students and anyone who positively knows you, can not only be a social support but a business one too. Neil explains how people you know can recruit students for you with a little incentive.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

You can turn your friends into recruiters by providing your network with a reward for finding you students or allowing them to offer free lessons or other incentives on your behalf.
You can use cash rewards, competition inclusion, free lessons, free merch, or anything else that has value for them.
Word-of-mouth marketing is the very best kind of marketing there is. Make sure you capitalise on it.

BEST MOMENTS

‘The idea is just to make your network enthusiastic recruiters for you.’

‘I offer any recruiting student an incentive, either cash or free lesson time.’

‘If you don’t like the idea of having too many students then don’t use this idea!’

VALUABLE RESOURCES

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

What's The Benefit ?

Sun, 16 Apr 2023 23:00:00 -0000

Neil explains The Benefit Trap, the mistaken belief that you have to accept any idea that has any kind of benefit to it despite the amount it offers or its compatibility with your current methods. He urges you to raise the bar when you consider a method and think carefully if any idea is worth including in your tutoring tool kit.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

A technique that has some benefit may not have enough to justify using it.
Consider what other tutors are doing and decide if what they are doing is helping them in their progress and if not, look for other methods that work for you.
Challenge, enthral, disrupt and inspire your students by introducing them to all the ideas, methods, tricks, styles and shortcuts you have access to as a tutor.

BEST MOMENTS

‘The Thinking Book is a safe place where I let my pen ramble through and around, in and out of whatever it is I’m interested in at that time, a huge journal on steroids if you like.’

‘I share every single hack, cheat, shortcut, under-handed mind-bending reimagining of music that I possibly can with them and I stretch them. I have them playing what they wouldn’t normally listen to.’

‘It’s got to be fun for them. It’s got to make it the high point of their week. It’s got to be something they cherish and they look forward to every single week of their busy lives.’

VALUABLE RESOURCES

CONTACT METHOD
info@neilcowmeadow.com

The Work

Sun, 09 Apr 2023 23:00:00 -0000

Neil expands on the concept of ‘The Work’ and how, rather than being a source of angst and torture, it can be the main source of fun and joy in your life.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Neil is compelled to teach. It is his reason.
Tutoring is an opportunity to spend time with people you love.
The job is to help people to shine a light in their darkness.

BEST MOMENTS

‘If someone else’s idea of a bad night is sitting in front of someone listening to them mangle a fairly simple piece of music that’s their opinion. I love it because I know I can get them to do it better.’

‘Every day I’m hanging out with people I love. I’ve become very loyal to my tribe.’

‘I want to honour the guitar. I want to share its beauty, its finesse, its brilliance, its intelligence and its history with as many people as I possibly can.’

VALUABLE RESOURCES

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD
info@neilcowmeadow.com

The You in USP

Sun, 02 Apr 2023 23:00:00 -0000

What is the difference between tutors that are struggling to make ends meet and always working, ever popular, always booked tutors? Neil identifies the ‘special sauce’ that turns clients into raving fans whereas someone with the same technical skills can struggle to make a living.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

You are the selling point of your business. You are the unique offering.
All your skills and experiences are not reproducible by anyone else.
You can gather all the technical skills in the world but they are useless if you cannot communicate them.

BEST MOMENTS

‘The difference is you. When you boil it all down what you deliver to your clients, your students are you.’

‘You can be a very highly qualified specialist in your field, that isn’t going to count for very much for a tutor unless you can communicate that to your students.’

‘Why would anyone in their right mind not be ‘all-in’ in this game?’

‘Be absurdly optimistic, ridiculously generous, brilliantly clever, hysterically funny and deeply groovy.’

VALUABLE RESOURCES

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

The Two Kinds of Work

Sun, 26 Mar 2023 23:00:00 -0000

Neil has come to realise there are 2 kinds of work. The first is bookkeeping, routine admin, scheduling lessons, lesson plans etc, the everyday routine work that is so regular that it does not require 100% focus. The second kind is ‘deep’ work, the most challenging, energising, absorbing and ‘time-distorting’ work.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Deep work is characterised by a total focus on just the work at hand. Eliminate distractions.
Deep work also requires solitude unless it involves collaboration.
Schedule blocks of time for the activity, be it hours, days, weeks or months.
Monitor your deep work. Choose a measurable result that can be easily tracked.

BEST MOMENTS

‘This shallow work can be done pretty much while handling everything else, the phone ringing, the emails coming and going, the odd flash of seductive on-screen entertainment with lurid headlines and click-bait pictures.’

‘Elimination of distractions! That means turn your phone off and put it somewhere else. Turn off your screen notifications. Get away from all those alluring non-subscription entertainment products like Reddit, YouTube, Twitter and so on.’

‘Your deep work could be very different to mine and that’s totally cool. It just has to be the most important and demanding thing for you.’

‘I’ve always said that all my problems come with hair on top. These days we are all expected to respond to emails, text messages, DM’s and PM’s and phone calls and the like in a very short time.’

VALUABLE RESOURCES

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

Flex It...The Muscle of Individuality

Mon, 20 Mar 2023 00:00:00 -0000

Neil explains the meaning and regular usage of his IDGAF muscle. As an entrepreneur and someone making things happen for yourself, you have to be willing to go against the grain of mainstream thinking. Listen in to find out what the ‘F’ stands for. No prizes though.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

80% to 90% of people really dislike what they do for a living.
Do not give a …. for what the world thinks.
Use your IDGAF muscle to detach yourself from the ghastly groupthink.
Remove yourself from the company of people whose actions and ideas hinder you.

BEST MOMENTS

‘If you look around anywhere you will see that depression is now a massive problem.’

‘It’s a basic human drive to try to fit in. We are tribal animals and ostracism and isolation from the tribe would have been life-threatening back in the day.’

‘Are they helping or hurting you, the people around you? Are they improving your chance of success and happiness or diminishing it?’

‘Maybe you just want to break your old patterns and your habits.’

VALUABLE RESOURCES

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

Rapport Basics - Matching & Mirroring

Mon, 13 Mar 2023 00:00:00 -0000

Neil introduces a few techniques to build rapport and increase the effectiveness of teaching to any student. If used well, they can be used to improve communication and ease, increasing your chances of making good progress with even a difficult client.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

The more like us we perceive a person to be the more we like them.
The Neurolinguistic Programming Techniques of matching and mirroring can be employed to achieve this result.
Matching is the replication of another’s body language and movements in order to gain rapport. However, be careful to not adopt this approach too early in case they think you are mocking them.
Mirroring is a technique similar to matching, but using a direct reflective technique to create a mirror image of their movements.
Match their language patterns. This can often happen naturally, as with the copying of accents or inflexions of speech, but also mimic the level of vocabulary.

BEST MOMENTS

‘We are more able to influence them. As teachers, that’s what we do. This is why old sales manuals used to suggest that salespeople should be able to speak enthusiastically about almost anything the customer says.’

‘As adults, we retain these unconscious ‘fitting in’ skills and we use them most with people we know and like.’

‘Another language cue is the propensity to use colourful language. So if someone drops an F-bomb every sentence and you feel it’s appropriate, you drop one.’

‘Take a look at their posture. Do they stand tall and straight or are they stooped over? If they’re sitting down, how do they sit?’

VALUABLE RESOURCES

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

Two Sides of Fear

Mon, 06 Mar 2023 00:00:00 -0000

There is the fear of failure and the fear of success. Neil examines both of these fears and how they can leave us stuck with his own story of encouraging success, how we jump through hoops to fool ourselves that doing nothing is a good strategy, and how we can fight the urge to take an apparently ‘safe’ route and defeat the fear.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

The actual task, goal or dream is in itself not scary, but the prospect of failure, ridicule and loss is.
Fear of succeeding can be fear of responsibility and change.
Doing nothing seems like a safe action, but is an active choice to cease to be in control.
Write things down. This will help you process your ideas. Avoid distractions and examine your fears, the real possible disasters, and then all the benefits of trying and taking action, all the possible successes.
When you look at the reasons for staying still and doing nothing, you will realise that most of them are ridiculous.

BEST MOMENTS

‘Maybe we are afraid that if we fail, people will laugh at us and think we are a bit crazy.’

‘Do you really want to be safe in your current position? I don’t think so. Inaction is actually an active strategy, you are choosing to do nothing.’

‘Think of all the benefits and the upsides of trying and then succeeding and write them down.’

‘Whether it’s fear of failure or fear of success, fear is the enemy. Action is the qkey.’

VALUABLE RESOURCES

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

Pause For Thought

Mon, 27 Feb 2023 00:00:00 -0000

Neil has been producing The Tutor Podcast for five full years, every Monday, every week, without fail through pandemics, and economic crises, as well as running three successful businesses. In this episode, he shares why, and what he has learned from the experience.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Nearly everyone struggles with self-doubt and a fear of failure.
People feel guilty about success and money.
Educate yourself, invest in yourself. Spend money on training and learning.
Creating the podcast has encouraged Neil’s hunger for information.

BEST MOMENTS

‘I’ve learned that nothing’s wrong with me, apart from an irrational desire to help other people define their own way to their own kind of success.’

‘The next thing I’ve learned is money and finance are still topics that need to be taught to kids.’

‘To really understand something, the best thing you can do is teach it to someone else.’

‘I no longer believe in writer's block.’

VALUABLE RESOURCES

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

What Drives You ?

Mon, 20 Feb 2023 00:00:00 -0000

What are the motivations of successful coaches and teachers? What drives those people that keep plugging away at the job and never seem to lose enthusiasm or energy? Neil is one of those people and has been teaching guitar since 1999 and is still loving it. He reveals his reasons for never losing his love for his chosen career.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Neil has an addictive personality and wants to turn it towards all aspects of his life and has found it is not about your achievement but the nature of your goals.
It is not about the endpoint, it is the process that provides the drive.
Hitting a goal can cause a depressive period due to the sudden drop in dopamine produced by the body.

BEST MOMENTS

‘I’m sort of curious about why I still can’t wait to get in the teaching room every day to welcome my students, tune them up and start having fun.’

‘The sort of friction that you have to overcome stimulates the chemicals in your body that push you forward.’

‘So no endpoints for me. Milestones on the way but what I’m really looking to do is to play forever in a whole raft of endless games.’

VALUABLE RESOURCES

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

Why Change is Hard

Mon, 13 Feb 2023 00:00:00 -0000

Change is the only constant in human life. Teaching is about changing students for the better and so tutors know more than most why change is so hard, and how and why we resist change. Neil explains how to break down that natural resistance and how to identify and remove a students limiting beliefs about themselves and what they are capable of.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Talent generally is irrelevant in guitar teaching, secondary to skill and technique.
Students will often provide reasons as to why they find it difficult to learn, progress or transform that are simply not true.
Teachability is inverse in proportion to experience.
It is up to you to deprogram your students of their limiting beliefs and bolster them with a new, dynamic and successful vision of themselves with the skills you teach them.

BEST MOMENTS

‘Round about all that stuff there is also my little belief that talent is mostly irrelevant as what I teach every single day simulates the idea of talent so closely.’

‘When you really listen to what students tell you they will tell you exactly how they see themselves.’

‘I figure out how they think and how they look at it, and then I go in and royally mess it up for them. I’ll mess up their programming so much they can’t get it back.’

‘People are funny things. They want to find a way to change and get what they always wanted, but then they find a way to beat it away from themselves.’

VALUABLE RESOURCES

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

Looking After Number One

Mon, 06 Feb 2023 00:00:00 -0000

The one thing that can bring your plans to further your tutoring business to a crashing halt is illness. No one can avoid this eventuality completely, but looking after your health and fitness is one of the highest considerations for anyone looking to mitigate the risks of debilitation. You need a healthy body for a healthy mind, and Neil is here with his tips on how to keep ahead and energised so you can concentrate fully on your business.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Unless you have an independent source of income or truly comprehensive health insurance you are at risk of loss if you find yourself unable to work.
How healthy are you? Nearly half of the population of the UK regularly take prescription drugs.
Avoid highly processed foods such as ready meals and snack foods. A low carbohydrate diet works for weight control and avoidance of type 2 diabetes.
Try not to eat too much sugar in foods like sugary drinks and sweets. Don’t trust additives and artificial fats and sweeteners.
Exercise and its plethora of options is beneficial. Find something you enjoy to supplement a good diet.

BEST MOMENTS

‘You’re in trouble if you get sick. This was my wake up call when I had a big cycling accident in Spain and lost the tip of nine of my fingers and realised that if I couldn’t teach guitar I was in deep trouble.’

‘Nobody is coming to the rescue. That means it’s on you. We have to take responsibility for our own health so that we can keep doing what we do.’

‘There’s a lot of dubious stuff on the government dietary website. So my suggestion is you just eat fresh unprocessed foods.’

VALUABLE RESOURCES

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

Bright Shiny Pennies

Mon, 30 Jan 2023 08:00:00 -0000

Continuing with his examination of blind spots in business and life, Neil is here with a cautionary tale of an intervention by a friend to alter his trajectory when distracted and entranced by a bright shiny penny.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

This story is about the value of getting someone else’s eyes on your blind spots, as well as the seductive power of bright shiny pennies, those alluring distractions that catch your eye and lure you away from your true mission.
When faced with the possibility of losing his guitar coaching business, Neil invested in training and learning about property investment.
That’s when a new member of Neils’ Blind Spot Council (go back and listen to episode 255 if you haven’t already) offered some timely and sage insight.

BEST MOMENTS

‘At that point, I realised I was just one accident or one illness away from being skint and in trouble if I was forced to stop teaching guitar which I had never really thought of before.’

‘At a small table in the middle of the room sat my new mentor, Derek.’

‘I think that anything that takes you away from the work you love, your teaching business, is not going to be worth it because you’ll end up resenting it for taking you away from your true love.’

VALUABLE RESOURCES

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

Blind Spot Council

Mon, 23 Jan 2023 00:00:00 -0000

In this episode, Neil is going to take a look at your blind spots in business. These are all the things you constantly miss, action incorrectly or are unaware of. The only problem is, you cannot see your blind spots so your only option is to call for an extra pair of eyes!

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Usually, our blind spots are completely obvious to the people around us. The outsiders’ view is vital.
If you are not as influential, successful, healthy and wealthy as you want to be, you have to admit you don’t know everything.
Put together a group of people, preferably with knowledge of you and your business, to take a look at what you do and how you operate to see if those extra eyes spot anything you have been missing.

BEST MOMENTS

‘What are your blind spots? Well, chances are you don’t know, because you’re blind to them! The clues in the name.’

‘Ask them the vital question, what am I missing? Ask them for their opinions. Don’t ask them for feedback as that can get a bit cringey in my opinion.’

‘My imaginary fiends gave me answers that were every bit as useful to me as real world counsellors.’

VALUABLE RESOURCES

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

Better than One

Mon, 16 Jan 2023 01:00:00 -0000

In this episode, Neil deals with other people. Musicians are always looking for more information, more music to play, more riffs, more chords, more tunes, and more songs. There are a few problems that are encountered within a student’s constant search for knowledge and Neil has some sage advice on how to turn what looks like a potential difficulty into an advantage.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Being able to play the piano does not qualify you as a guitar teacher even if you play the instrument. Technical knowledge is key.
Books and magazines often provide inaccurate or out of date information.
Online material can be great but unless you know the difference between the quality and rubbish it can be a lottery.
As a tutor you will often be competing with other sources for prevalence. Embrace this. Other sources may bring you knowledge and if they are inadequate they will be exposed over time.
You can collaborate with the other source if you can find a teacher that will do so or embellish the students extra learning with your own techniques. But don’t get huffy!

BEST MOMENTS

‘I don’t think this is deliberate. I think this is genuinely well meaning people demonstrating that they have really poor technique and an unusual interpretation of reality.’

‘It’s not unusual for a student to show up for a lesson with me having got the point last session then utterly confused themselves by watching a ton of contradictory youtube videos.’

‘If little Jonny absolutely loves his other teacher, no matter how bad their teacher may be, if you slag that other teacher off you’re going to be the bad guy.’

VALUABLE RESOURCES

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

Silent Mode

Mon, 09 Jan 2023 00:00:00 -0000

Mobile phones are divisive in that they offer us organisational convenience while simultaneously invading our private time and information. Neil gives his opinion on this constant helpful interloper into our existence and what we can do to fight its more unhelpful influences.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

The dichotomy is that we run our lives via mobile phone tech but also suspect that it tracks your every move and that calls and messages are recorded and analysed by people that don’t have our best interests at heart.
It is prudent to bear in mind when handling your sensitive data that mobile phones allow unscrupulous tech companies to track and data scrape your private information.
Phones constantly interrupt you with demands for attention. They can be a corrupting influence on your time management, relationships and safety.
Turn your phone off when tutoring. To do otherwise suggests a lack of care and respect for your student.

BEST MOMENTS

‘I’m by no means a Luddite, by no means a tech-fearing tinfoil hat-wearing conspiracy theorist. Like you, I use my mobile phone most days.’

‘Frankly, I think it’s a mistake and I think we’d be wise to manage our relationship with the phone very, very carefully.’

‘Turn the phone off. What a radical idea that is! That’s actually too hard for most people to do!’

VALUABLE RESOURCES

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

Content V. Principle Teaching

Mon, 02 Jan 2023 00:00:00 -0000

Neil explains the theory of Content Teaching and Principle Teaching, and the difference and advantages of the two compared or combined.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Principal teachers teach why. Content teachers teach by fact, writing and method.
The ‘why’ without the ‘how’ and the ‘what’ is as pointless as the ‘what’ without the ‘why’.
The only solution is to be both kinds and present both.

BEST MOMENTS

‘(Content Teaching is) Good old fashioned monkey-see, monkey-do rote learning. It’s extremely limited in scope and the pathways to developing the player and the student.’

‘(Principle Teaching) For me this is the dry, abstract, theory side of music. It’s the way music was rammed down our throats in school when I didn’t take it as an option even though I love music.’

‘We’ve got to be both. Good teaching is an elegant and dynamic dance between those two extremes.’

VALUABLE RESOURCES

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

New Year, New Start

Mon, 26 Dec 2022 00:00:00 -0000

New Year is looming. What does that mean to you? Are you hoping for change? Well, Neil is here to remind you that nothing is going to change unless you do.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Whatever it is you’re going to do, try not to start with a New Year's resolution. The vast majority of those are broken, and you want to make permanent positive change.
The biggest failure point of New Year’s resolutions is the indefinite nature of goal setting. They are too vague.
Set clear measurable markers and surround yourself with people who will hold you to account, support you and help you along your way.

BEST MOMENTS

‘Because change is fairly a one-shot and then done affair. More often it’s a process of constant reinforcement of the desired behaviour and the monitoring of results.’

‘For many people, there’s no process. They’ll set the goal without any awareness of what they actually need to do to get there.’

‘For me, if something isn’t written down it doesn’t exist. That’s why business transactions are conducted on paper.’

VALUABLE RESOURCES

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

Time Travel

Mon, 19 Dec 2022 00:00:00 -0000

Treat yourself! Get yourself a time travel device for Christmas. The single most valuable asset you have is time. You can always make more money and more friends but you can never make or buy more time. Time to plan!

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Just do it now! Take a few days off to think and plan. Execute the plan and measure the results. Your life will change!
You will change because the planning, vision and diligence needed to execute the plan will alter your character and your focus.
Take a look 15 years into your future and see if you like what you see.

BEST MOMENTS

‘From the second you came into the world the clock began to tick and later on it seems to tick faster and the days get shorter and then the clock starts to chime! Isn’t that a cheery thought?’

‘People like that seem to glide through life, overcome challenges and they’ve got a certain energy and charisma. They command respect.’

‘Write it all down. Be precise and specific. Now you’ve got a long-range vision of a possible future you’ve designed for yourself to live in.’

VALUABLE RESOURCES

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

Into The Vortex

Mon, 12 Dec 2022 00:00:00 -0000

Neil calls his teaching environment ‘The Vortex’ where he loses track of time, days disappear in what seems minutes and he never gets thirsty or hungry. Neil explains the theory behind this altered state of perception.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

People are happiest when they are in a state of ‘flow’ defined as a state of concentration and complete absorption with the situation or activity at hand.
It is an optimal state of intrinsic motivation where it becomes its own reward.

BEST MOMENTS

‘With this total intensity you’d maybe expect there’d be some kind of stress but it’s the exact opposite.’

‘It’s a loss almost of the self into the activity. Musicians often describe this as being in the zone, in the pocket or in the groove.’

‘For the vast majority of almost everyone else out there, you’ll sound like a bloody nut job when you talk about what work feels like for you.’

VALUABLE RESOURCES

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

Managing Parents

Mon, 05 Dec 2022 00:00:00 -0000

One of the aspects of tutoring students is having to manage the young ones’ parents as well. Part of being a parent can be to be nosey and interfering, but Neil has some ways to make the natural parental concern and control less intrusive.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

All parents are going to be different but they all have one thing in common, they are all doing the best they can for their children.
Giving the parents a direct line of sight allows them to stay out of view of their child but keep an eye on you as a tutor. There cannot be anything hidden or concealed.
Encourage mum or dad to address their questions to you at the end of the session or in a separate communication.

BEST MOMENTS

‘I provide them with a nice comfy seat in the hallway or a hard wooden folding seat in the teaching room, for those that absolutely must sit in on juniors lessons.’

‘Experience tells me that not many kids want their parents to watch them while they make mistakes.’

‘Helicopter mums hovering on the kids’ shoulder can just stifle them. I’ve seen it over and over again.’

VALUABLE RESOURCES

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

Pay Attention

Mon, 28 Nov 2022 00:00:00 -0000

As Neil sees it, the vast majority of people are lost. They’re caught up in the make believe world of state controlled news that leaves them terrified, dissatisfied, fearful and powerless, lost in the media circus of petty celebrity, tabloid news and social media. With so much attention given by the vast majority to the trivial and the inane, how many of us can claim to actually be paying attention to our own lives?

KEY TAKEAWAYS

If your eyes are not on your own life, goals and future, then your present probably isn’t how you’d like it to be.
Pay attention. Keep an eye on your own business, your own health and your own relationships.
Ask yourself how much you’re earning and how you can earn more.

BEST MOMENTS

‘As I wander through the world I am absolutely fascinated by the people I see and I’m struck by the distractedness of their lives, by the things they actually squander their attention on.’

‘Ask yourself, how did I do today? Was I exceptional? Did I serve my tribe? Was there anything today I could have done better?’

‘Eliminate as much TV, YouTube and social media as you can. This will liberate vast swathes of time and energy that you can use to improve your life, your business, your health and your fortune.’

VALUABLE RESOURCES

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

Diligence

Mon, 21 Nov 2022 00:00:00 -0000

Neil diligently battles through his fly to bring you this episode on diligence! As he defines it, it’s the ongoing execution of right action in the pursuit of worthy goals. Describing how to stay around the straight and narrow, Neil explains the advantages of being diligent about timescale and your attention and to be sure that what you are aiming for is worth your efforts.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

A lot of us are good beginners, and lousy finishers. Nothing beats the excitement of a new project.
Worthy goals have to have value and be worth the effort. They should also be a vehicle for your own self expression, else you’ll reach a goal that means nothing to you.
Set the time aside and never let anything take the spot.
If we increase the frequency of our tasks it becomes more efficient.

BEST MOMENTS
‘Before anything else, I must confess, I’m actually pretty crap at this. I love the excitement of new stuff and I don’t much care for the mundane, routine things in life.’
‘The trick is to keep taking the next step. You’ll know soon enough if you’re on the right path as each step reveals the next.’
‘I know what my goals are. I’ve identified the goals that are worthy of my time and my effort. The teaching is to spread the love affair with the guitar. That’s worth my time.’

VALUABLE RESOURCES
The Tutor Podcast
www.Neilcowmeadow.com

CONTACT METHOD
info@neilcowmeadow.com

Managing Your Inner Moron

Mon, 14 Nov 2022 00:00:00 -0000

We all have one. Yeah, you do! It’s the stupid idiot part of us that keeps on doing stupid things even when we know for sure it isn’t going to help us move forward, stay in shape, maintain our relationships and do better business and make more money. Neil is going to help you kick out that inner moron.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

The little inner voice that tells you deserve a Mars bar because you’ve been to the gym. Wrong.
Refocus on what works. Never let your inner moron run you.
Just stop, pause, take a breath, and take the choice that truly benefits you.

BEST MOMENTS
‘Your reward for going to the gym is to be a little fitter, a little bit stronger and a little bit better than you were.’
‘This where the rubber meets the road and you either battle your inner moron or you surrender to it.’
‘It will lie to you. It will bully and flatter you. It will coerce, control and manipulate you but you cannot let it win.’

VALUABLE RESOURCES
The Tutor Podcast
www.Neilcowmeadow.com

CONTACT METHOD
info@neilcowmeadow.com

Absolutely Always, Sometimes

Mon, 07 Nov 2022 00:00:00 -0000

When trying to challenge students' ideas of their own identity, or even one's own, there are 3 parts to this easily applied psychological method to make your efforts flow much more easily.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Absolutely ; find what the student believes is absolutely true for them. For example ‘I’m tone deaf’ or ‘I have no rhythm’.
Always ; find something the student believes they are good at, but haven’t always been good at. Use this to identify change and improvement. For example ‘I used to be bad at guitar playing, but I’m much better now.’
Sometimes ; find one moment where they have been good at what they think they are bad at, and remove the absolute nature of their belief.

BEST MOMENTS
‘Today a mature student told me that they used to sing all the time when they were little, but stopped when they were seven after the school music teacher told them that their voice was awful’
‘Those beliefs are actually temporary over the long term. They’re changeable. I think our job as teachers is to change the buggers.’
‘I have taken their identity of being capable and able from one context and grafted it into the guitar lesson.’

VALUABLE RESOURCES
The Tutor Podcast
www.Neilcowmeadow.com

CONTACT METHOD
info@neilcowmeadow.com

Skills and Beliefs – Which are Strongest?

Mon, 31 Oct 2022 00:00:00 -0000

These are the two elements that being a successful teacher really hinges on, but which has the greatest affect on the student, imparting skills and knowledge or the ability to change their belief systems?

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Your communication skills are your ability to present, demonstrate and explain practical skills in a way the student can understand.
Ultimately the imparting of skills will lead nowhere unless you can change the students belief in themselves. Belief drives everything.
A negative belief will prevent the student from using any of the skills you could impart to them. Unless they believe themselves to be a musician, they will not play.

BEST MOMENTS

‘Since I’m a guitar teacher I’ll spend lots of time building the students foundational skills and their technical base using the music they love, moving from a very simplified, paired down version and adding layers of complexity and nuance as we go.’

‘People will stay true to who they believe themselves to be, for better or for worse.’

‘Without changing their beliefs, you and I are going to struggle to help them to get what they want because what they want to do most is confirm their beliefs.’

VALUABLE RESOURCES

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

info@neilcowmeadow.com

Pacing and Leading

Sun, 23 Oct 2022 23:00:00 -0000

Pacing and Leading is a concept within Neuro Linguistic Programming, or NLP, which is applied linguistics and psychology to alter or set patterns of human behaviour. Pacing and Leading is a great way to gain rapport and trust with students and allows you to take an unmotivated, stressed out student and move them to a more positive position. Neil tells you how.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Pacing is where you move yourself into the same state that the student is in. Connect with them as they currently are to gain rapport. You may need to observe closely adopting posture, breathing, movement and language.
When you are matched you can then move yourself into a more positive state. If you make small subtle changes and see if they follow, you can influence them into a more positive position.
This method allows not only learning but can give the normally challenged student a positive experience that they will want to repeat.

BEST MOMENTS

‘You can think of it as falling into step alongside someone, a friend perhaps, while you’re walking down the road. It just makes everything easier if you’re walking in step.’

‘When I’ve got a depressed or a sad student I’ll move into their world and then bring them back into mine so they are uplifted and empowered and capable of learning.’

‘As with any skill, use this for the benefit of your students and your clients’

VALUABLE RESOURCES

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

info@neilcowmeadow.com

Pricing - How To Get The Best Price For Your Services

Sun, 16 Oct 2022 23:00:00 -0000

In this episode Neil leads you through how to identify the right price to charge for your tutoring sessions and what factors to consider and ignore when reaching your decision. Pricing matters, but maybe not in the way you think.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

It is not greedy to charge as much as people are willing to pay for what you do, its just sensible.
People don’t pay just for your actions but for your knowledge and experience.
If you reduce your price too much, people will assume you are of low quality and avoid you.
Discounts often result in difficulty when the rate reverts to normal. It may result in constant price renegotiation.

BEST MOMENTS

‘If you’re charging £20 an hour and people would gladly pay £30 for what you do, doesn’t it make sense to give them the opportunity to give you that higher rate?’

‘A big part of your fee will be due to trust. Trust that the customer has in you.’

‘If your customer demographic is affluent, you should charge what they expect.’

‘Having delivered all my technical stuff they still want to come and spend time with me.’

VALUABLE RESOURCES

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

info@neilcowmeadow.com

Teaching Creativity

Sun, 09 Oct 2022 23:00:00 -0000

Many people think they are not creative, devoid of inspiration or don’t have the required skill or natural makeup to even improvise. Neil disagrees and believes that all of us are creative to a greater or lesser extent and it is a skill that must be practiced to be developed. He explains how he encourages and teaches his students to move beyond their own narrow definitions of themselves.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Everyone is creative at whatever age and whatever background. There is a natural drive in every human that seeks expression.
Give your students a safe place to express and just allow it to happen. Don’t judge it or allow your students to judge themselves.
Give them technique and then encourage them to disrupt it to create something new.
Creativity is often discouraged by mainstream education so it is up to individual tutors to fan that creative spark back into life.

BEST MOMENTS

‘You don’t learn much from what you already know and what you’ve proved to work, that’s a done deal. It’s when you make errors, when you try stuff out, that’s when you create something new.’

‘Make them curious. Get them to ask the correct questions of themselves.’

‘There is no place for creativity in a great deal of the mainstream education system because that’s all about passing exams. It’s about compliance and conformity.’

VALUABLE RESOURCES

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

The Great Escape

Sun, 02 Oct 2022 23:00:00 -0000

Neil explains ‘The Great Escape’ or ‘The Great Retreat’ as a preventative measure for those who get swamped, overwhelmed or over absorbed in their business or work. Here is Neil’s method of getting back to the big picture, the long view, and strategic planning if you get caught up in the nitty-gritty, everyday grind of your business.
KEY TAKEAWAYS

We tend to miss small details, trends and shifts in the marketplace, miss openings and opportunities.
Make regular time for your strategic planning. Take more than one day out from the business to properly consider it from a distance and see what you may have been missing.
Disconnect from the daily tasks of the business to take real time to consider its direction and forward planning.

BEST MOMENTS
‘We can end up neglecting the long view and this is absolutely normal because we’re working ‘in the business’, we’re not working ‘on the business.’’
‘I need to disconnect from the day to day running of the business. So I deliberately don’t do email. I also don't phone, I leave it at home.’
‘The big thing is to be away from my teaching work completely. And that means no scheduling, no admin, no taking calls..nothing.’
VALUABLE RESOURCES
The Tutor Podcast
www.Neilcowmeadow.com
ABOUT THE HOST
Neil Cowmeadow is a maverick peripatetic guitar teacher from Telford with over 19 years’ experience in the business of helping people. Learn how to start, grow and love your business with Neil’s invaluable advice and tips without the buzzwords and BS!
CONTACT METHOD
info@neilcowmeadow.com

Branding For Beginners

Tue, 27 Sep 2022 09:13:44 -0000

A ‘brand’ is a product, service, business or even person that is easily identified and widely known. But what is it that makes a brand and how do you become one? Neil takes a look at how you can get started on the road to being well known for the services that you offer.
KEY TAKEAWAYS

A brand is not simply a logo or a slogan. These are all just signifiers, signposts for the potential customer to follow.
A strong and unified idea of what the business or product is about is the brand.
If you can provoke an emotional response people will behave irrationally when purchasing products and services, allowing you to charge more.
You need to be known for something positive and then make every one aware of it in exactly the same way.
Be consistent in what you offer, be the same person, if possible even in dress and behaviour.

BEST MOMENTS
‘The brand isn’t the logo. That’s just a signifier. It’s a distinctive symbol designed to capture attention.’
‘It’s the widely held belief that the particular business or product is actually doing something special, perhaps even magical.’
‘To me ‘rock god’, ‘guitar hero’, I mean, how’s that for elevation of an ordinary person to a very high status? How’s that for pushing that high perceived value?’
‘Where I am, everybody knows Neil Cowmeadow because there are big banners on the fence outside of my house, with the stupid name on it! Cowmeadow! Its just daft, everybody knows Neil the guitar guy.’
VALUABLE RESOURCES
The Tutor Podcast
www.Neilcowmeadow.com
ABOUT THE HOST
Neil Cowmeadow is a maverick peripatetic guitar teacher from Telford with over 19 years’ experience in the business of helping people. Learn how to start, grow and love your business with Neil’s invaluable advice and tips without the buzzwords and BS!
CONTACT METHOD
info@neilcowmeadow.com

It's Your Thing

Sun, 18 Sep 2022 23:00:00 -0000

If you are in business for yourself your are in a significant minority with currently only 13.7% of working people self employed, the lowest since 2011. There is a lot of peer pressure to get a job and be miserable. However, Neil urges you to carry on with your own business and keep your time and happiness under your own control.
KEY TAKEAWAYS

Avoid the ‘loser speak’ because that’s what you are going to hear a lot of and you are going to hear it from the majority of the people around you.
Don’t take career advice from unhappy, unfulfilled, underpaid people.
Some people will resent you in your freedom and success.

BEST MOMENTS
‘If you’re busy, they’ll tell you not to work so hard. They’ll tell you that you need to chill out. And I hate that term.’
‘Because we’ve chosen to leave the safety of the herd, break rank and separate ourselves from who we used to be, believe me, it changes you.’
‘Nobody else can live our life for us.’
VALUABLE RESOURCES
The Tutor Podcast
www.Neilcowmeadow.com
ABOUT THE HOST
Neil Cowmeadow is a maverick peripatetic guitar teacher from Telford with over 19 years’ experience in the business of helping people. Learn how to start, grow and love your business with Neil’s invaluable advice and tips without the buzzwords and BS!
CONTACT METHOD
info@neilcowmeadow.com

Selling & Negotiating

Sun, 11 Sep 2022 23:00:00 -0000

If you are listening in the UK this episode may trigger some of your British reticence. This ones all about negotiation and selling, so steel yourself to have the nerve to ask for what you are worth. Neil explains how good sales is actually providing a service that people really want and negotiation is just the pathway to it.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Sales is often seen as a shameful occupation dedicated to persuading people to buy things we don’t need in Britain.
Negotiation is often perceived as adversarial and unpleasant. It is actually about leading the customer to the correct decision so they can get what they want while satisfying your requirements as a seller.
Understand that the customer is trading something of lower value for them for something of higher value.
Once the intention to buy has been agreed upon then negotiation is just the details of the means of delivery.

BEST MOMENTS

‘We don’t big ourselves up. We don’t stand with our heads held high and proud. It’s really not the British way, is it? But if there’s one thing that we’re brilliant at here in Britain, it’s misunderstanding the ideas of sales and to a certain extent negotiation.’

‘Then enable them to exchange something that’s of low value to them, money, for something that is of enormous value for them ; understanding, technical skill, accelerated learning and time compression.’

‘I’m offering them, for an amount of money, a pathway to become who they most want to be.’

‘If you sell properly, ethically and effectively you’ll probably have a lot less negotiation to do when you present your prospective student or client to the solution they’ve always wanted.’

VALUABLE RESOURCES

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

Wealth - What it Is, and What it Ain't

Sun, 04 Sep 2022 23:00:00 -0000

Neil talks about wealth, what it is and what it ain’t. Different people have different concepts of what it is to be wealthy, so what do they mean when we talk about wealth?

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Money is just a small component of the whole ‘wealth ecosystem’.
Friends and people you love are part of a rich experience of the world.
Time is your most precious and your most finite resource.

BEST MOMENTS

‘Money is important. You can’t ignore it.’

‘I believe if you have just one pound more than you need, you are actually pretty wealthy.’

‘I think it's primarily a three way balancing act and every single one of us will have to find their own unique balance point.’

VALUABLE RESOURCES

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

Total Self-Honesty

Sun, 28 Aug 2022 23:00:00 -0000

The easiest person to lie to is you. We tell ourselves reassuring stories of how great we are and how we are productive and doing our best while binge watching the latest Netflix drama. Neil gives his tips on how to avoid long bouts of indolence and denial and keep asking the right questions of yourself.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

We can all distort reality to reassure ourselves we are progressing. It is not easy to be real about how things are, constantly.
Ask yourself some serious questions. How am I doing in my business? Really? REALLY?
Where am I going with things as they currently are? What’s your trajectory? Is it profitable? Is it sustainable?
What are the opportunities I have not noticed? What are my risks and pitfalls? And what is the cost of action and inaction?

BEST MOMENTS

‘Where we can happily delude ourselves that everything’s peachy or everything is crap. That we’re right or that we’re wrong, that things are going up or down, or any other point on the continuum.’

‘As I’m writing this and then recording it I’m also running these questions back and forth in my own mind.’

‘I’ll try new things. If they work better than what I was currently doing then I’ll implement that as a policy. Test. Test.Test.’

VALUABLE RESOURCES

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

Managing Your Emotions

Sun, 21 Aug 2022 23:00:00 -0000

As a guitar tutor patience is not only a virtue but a necessity. After being asked by his students how he never loses his temper, Neil shares his tips on managing your emotions in this episode.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Recognise that you are having an emotional reaction and identify it. If you can’t recognise it, you can’t manage it.
What you call the emotion will affect your response to the emotion you’re experiencing. Rename it and interpret it positively.
Pause and reach for your next technique to overcome the situation.

BEST MOMENTS

‘Just like you, I have to manage frustration and impatience because if it gets out of control I might respond badly.’

‘Emotions never rest, they’re always moving this way, that way,’

‘I think this is why I’ve become such a fan of Neurolinguistic Programming, applied psychology, behaviour and linguistics and some of the techniques of hypnosis.’

VALUABLE RESOURCES

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

Opportunities Are Everywhere. Listen, Connect People, Join The Dots

Sun, 14 Aug 2022 23:00:00 -0000

One of the really interesting things you get to do when you are exposed to lots of people socially or via business is choose between the plethora of opportunities that come your way if you listen and connect with people. The possibilities are endless for business, pleasure or helping people if you keep your ears open and see the collaborations possible between those in your community.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Problems, puzzles and challenges can be solved if you listen carefully. People share their challenges and you can ask yourself, is there opportunity for me, them, or how can I help?
If you cannot help them yourself, ask yourself, who do I know that can help?
Think ; be useful. By helping people you will find opportunities to come to you.

BEST MOMENTS

‘Where is the way to make things better? How do I make things better?’

‘I wound up believing that life is like walking through a field strewn with diamonds.’

‘As tutors we have a network of contacts, students, parents, and all their associates, so who can we help? All we have to do is listen and be prepared to play. Maybe we can join the dots that they can’t see.’

VALUABLE RESOURCES

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

Everything is a Mind-Game

Sun, 07 Aug 2022 23:00:00 -0000

Teaching, coaching and mentoring people is about change. We are constantly shaping and changing their minds. Neil shares how he helps his students grow by bypassing their habitual psychological defences to teach new habits and techniques.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

The teaching process is fairly consistent, it's about shaping and changing people's minds for the better.
The students' sense of identity will embody all sorts of beliefs including morals, self worth and level of talent. It is the teachers job to slip past these defences and re-teach the students an idea of their limits.
Pre held misconceptions of, for example, coming from a musical family and believing they must follow suit, perhaps ideas of their lack of talent or they have been playing for years, making little progress, and believe the task impossible.
Having students read an affirmative statement that is the opposite of their preconceived idea of their shortcomings.

BEST MOMENTS

‘Before a student or a client can effectively absorb and use the information we are trying to put across to them the mind has to be ready to receive it.’

‘Where the mind goes the body follows.’

‘That will massively affect the outcome because the student, the client, is gonna try and make those words come true.’

VALUABLE RESOURCES

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

I Do It To Do It

Sun, 31 Jul 2022 23:00:00 -0000

In this episode Neil talks about how working in the occupation you love and gaining energy from is difficult to relinquish. In fact, should we really retire at all if we gain so much impetus from a job that we love?

KEY TAKEAWAYS

We are all at our best when we are useful to other people.
The work itself is the reward if you enjoy your job. Why give that up?
Don’t let society, or anyone else, talk you into doing less than your best work and especially not into giving it all up.

BEST MOMENTS

‘Now that he’s retiring he doesn’t feel useful anymore and it's eating him up inside. I totally get it.’

‘Is retirement a good thing? Let's suppose that after years of work, challenge and growth, achieved mastery of your craft, you’re at the top of your game and it's still tremendously fun for you. Why would anyone want to stop when you’ve finally got it down like that?’

‘Given that the vast majority of people hate their jobs, and they’re not having much fun, why would anybody in their right mind take tips like that from unhappy people?’

VALUABLE RESOURCES

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

The Four Streams of Income. “BEEP Model”

Sun, 24 Jul 2022 23:00:00 -0000

Following on from the last episode of the importance of alternative income streams to support you doing the job you love, Neil explains the options available to you with the BEEP model, your four choices when deciding on the types of extra business you want to adopt.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Business/commercial activity (with or without your active involvement.)
Earn it through an extra job or tuition fees.
Equity. Own assets that increase in value which can be extracted.
Passive Investment including dividends or managed property rental income.

BEST MOMENTS

‘A single income stream is a big problem. It’s vulnerable, it’s not safe, it’s not secure.’

‘If you want more money you’ve got to work more hours and you don’t actually set the hourly rate. It’s difficult to negotiate a good increase in your salary or arrange yourself a good bonus.’

‘Passive 'really for me means hands-off. This income you really don’t have to physically work for.’

VALUABLE RESOURCES

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

Develop Another Business

Sun, 17 Jul 2022 23:00:00 -0000

Teaching, tutoring and coaching may be the thing you love primarily, but being in business for yourself can often open your eyes to more business opportunities that come your way. Neil talks about the dangers of the bright, shiny project that can pull you away from your first love, tutoring but also how having more than a single business can free you to enjoy what you find the most fun.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Choose businesses that are fun for you or offer a hands off model.
A second business is about decreasing risk and increasing stability.
Joint venture with others especially if they have complimentary skills or resources
Be careful when you choose your venture that it does not rob resources, time and energy from the pastime that you love..

BEST MOMENTS

‘Don’t get me wrong I think we should all have a second business or a third or a fourth, just as a source of income.’

‘It could potentially make you more useful to the people around you in all sorts of capacities.’

‘Then ask yourself, what would I have to give up in order to pursue this new idea?’

‘What are the opportunities that are lying all around you? One of them could be exactly what you need.’

VALUABLE RESOURCES

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

Boo, Holidays

Sun, 10 Jul 2022 23:00:00 -0000

Summer Term is coming to an end and students are providing holiday dates. Neil thinks holidays are overrated. If you enjoy your job, why would you need one?

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Don’t do stuff that makes you unhappy. Like golf.
Others don’t understand the drive of the entrepreneur and their single mindedness.
Keep your eyes open.Continue to look for opportunities in your down time.

BEST MOMENTS

‘I think holidays are just, for a lot of people, an escape from a life you don’t actually like that much. But what if you, like me, love your work and you hate being away from it?’

‘As entrepreneurs, as business people, we are different to people who have a job in the straight world. We are entrepreneurs and not everyone is gonna get it.’

‘Can you recharge yourself? Can you come back stronger, recuperate. Can you reinvent yourself and with the same resources come up with something better than you're currently doing?’

VALUABLE RESOURCES

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

The Biggest Problem in Tutoring

Sun, 03 Jul 2022 23:00:00 -0000

In this episode Neil addresses the biggest problem affecting you in your tutoring business, time. It is something we all wish we had more of and so Neil has a few tips and rules to stick to when deciding how to use this precious resource.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

You could be using your time upgrading your skills, creating systems that make your use of time even more efficient or investing it in people you actually like.
What could you build, buy or acquire that will pay you without much effort from you? Property, music, online tutorials, written pieces all have steady onward returns once acquired or created.
Investments such as these free you up to to do the job that you enjoy.

BEST MOMENTS

‘How you us it could be anything. You could waste it on negative or unproductive activities and things like TV and hangovers and doing things that make you unhappy or spending time with people you don’t really like that much.’

‘The first thing that springs to mind for me is intellectual property. These are things like books, courses, music, systems.’

‘I love being useful. I love helping my students, my clients and even my tenants do better for themselves.’

VALUABLE RESOURCES

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

info@neilcowmeadow.com

The Encyclopaedia of Applied Fantasticness (Part 2)

Sun, 26 Jun 2022 23:00:00 -0000

Neil presents to you The Encyclopaedia of Applied Fantasticness, the tome containing all the positive and inspiring notes, reviews and information provided by his students over the years. If you don’t have one yourself, Neil tells you why you should be starting one immediately.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Your own collection of positivity provided by your students can be a book you can return to when you feel you need a boost and reminding of all the good work you’ve done.
Neil stashes all his thank you cards, notes, quotes from his students in the The Encyclopaedia of Applied Fantasticness.
In our negative world, good memories disappear first, so preserve them.

BEST MOMENTS

‘Last week I talked about The Locard Principle and if you didn’t hear it you’re very naughty. Go and stand on the naughty step and don’t come down until I tell you to.’

‘If you’re in the teaching business I hope you have such a book. If you don’t have one yet I hope to convince you that its well worth your time.’

‘Even after the rainy days have passed you’ll have wonderful memories of the members of your tribe and you’ll be able to keep them forever. The memories of lives that you have helped to change for the better.’

VALUABLE RESOURCES

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

The Locard Principle

Sun, 19 Jun 2022 23:00:00 -0000

Neil recently discovered a textbook on forensics and was reminded of Edmond Locard who created the first crime lab. He presented the theory, The Locard Principle, that every criminal brings something to a crime scene and also leaves with something and both of these can be utilised in forensic detection. Equally, every contact between tutor and student will also leave a trace of the exchange, as Neil details.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Locard invented the principle of every contact leaves a trace, or, with contact between two items there will be an exchange.
A constant stream of exchanged information flows between student and tutor.
Gather evidence at the end of your day. What did you learn? What did you teach? What feedback did you get? With each detail you can improve.

BEST MOMENTS

“Wherever he steps, whatever he touches, whatever he leaves, even unconsciously, will serve as a silent witness against him.” - Paul Kirk

‘Every student teaches us to be better in the same way that we would teach them to learn and grow and to become better themselves.’

‘Ask yourself what worked today and what didn’t. What can I do more of?’

VALUABLE RESOURCES

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

info@neilcowmeadow.com

Rudimentary Records

Sun, 12 Jun 2022 23:00:00 -0000

Everyone running a business has an obligation to keep up to date records of their finances to satisfy tax law. However, not everyone has accounting or record keeping skills or are organised enough to keep on top of the task. Neil explains the basics of what is required for you to be able to rest assured that you are covering all the legal bases.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Please don’t ignore these requirements as ignorance is no defence against the tax man.
Consider your business as separate from yourself. Business money and personal money should be kept apart.
Keep basic records as you go. Keep it simple, just a monthly A4 page or spreadsheet.

BEST MOMENTS

‘Johnny tax man is armed to the teeth and can make your life hell if you ever get on the wrong side of him.’

‘The first thing I want you to do is open a separate bank account that’s just for your tutoring money. If you’re a sole trader you can use a simple personal bank account for free and there are some free business banks out there.’

‘Once a year I will also add an extra entry on to the cash sheet which is the HMRC yearly allowance for home use.’

VALUABLE RESOURCES

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

info@neilcowmeadow.com

Reading and The Future

Sun, 05 Jun 2022 23:00:00 -0000

The first step in becoming an expert in any field is to read up on it yet in modern times fewer people seem to consider this as essential. Neil explains why you are what you read.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

By seeing the books that people are reading you can roughly predict how peoples 5 year future is going to pan out.
A constant reading regimen or habit can catapult you in to expertise in any field you choose to be interested in.
What you read not only informs your knowledge but also your personality and world view.

BEST MOMENTS

‘Out of curiosity I asked him whose ideas resonated most with him, who his rock start philosopher would be. His answer absolutely floored me. “I’ve never read anything about philosophy.”’

‘Let’s say you read a book a week plus another one a week when you’re on holiday. So you go on holiday for a fortnight so that’s two extra, 54 books a year. If you read 54 books on anything you’re going to be pretty clued up about it.’

‘Show me your library and I’ll show you your future.’

VALUABLE RESOURCES

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

info@neilcowmeadow.com

The DON’T DO list.

Sun, 29 May 2022 23:00:00 -0000

Neil loves a list. The highly organised usually have several ‘to-do’ lists on the go at once, but in this episode Neil shows you his ‘not-to-do’ list.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

DON’T do anything that makes you unhappy.
DON’T deal with t*s*@rs.
DON’T pursue projects or work that conflict with the core values of fun, honesty, usefulness and success in your own terms.
DON’T waste too much time on adventurous frivolity.

BEST MOMENTS

‘As many of you know from previous episodes, I’m a big fan of lists and putting things in writing.’

‘Avoid getting sucked into glittery, potentially lucrative property projects, refurbishments of time demanding strategies that will prevent me from teaching guitar.’

‘So if you find yourself doing something that actually isn’t your idea of fun, walk away.’

VALUABLE RESOURCES

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

Inflation’s Double-Edged Sword

Sun, 22 May 2022 23:00:00 -0000

Neil tackles the hot topic of the moment, the dreaded inflation. It is the true enemy of savings and the economy in general, but is it all bad?

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Inflation is the rate of increase in prices over a given period of time. Often referred to as the ‘cost of living’.
Vast quantities of currency being dumped into the economy by our Government helped create inflation.
If you have your savings in an account with interest that does not surpass the inflation level, your savings, in real buying terms, will be decreasing in value.
The value of any debt you have will be halved and if that debt is financing income producing assets such as rental income you are reasonably protected from inflation.

BEST MOMENTS

‘Generally speaking, governments and central banks aim to control inflation, but they’re often the greatest causes of it. For example, when the supply of money outpaces economic growth.’

‘Inflation is bad news for savers, and the higher the rebate of inflation the worse it is. This leads to glib little phrases like ‘cash is trash’’

‘So as an investor and a business person I like inflation, as a private individual I dislike it a great deal.’

VALUABLE RESOURCES

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

Teaching Old Dogs New Tricks

Sun, 15 May 2022 23:00:00 -0000

Neil talks about teaching mature students in this episode. Many of Neils students are fully grown adults of three kinds, absolute novices, lifelong players and people that used to play but quit in order to pursue other priorities. What problems do they present and how can you overcome them?

KEY TAKEAWAYS

The non players may think it’s all talent, but its all about skill and work at the end of the day. They present with no learnt bad habits.
Current players appear frustrated and stuck on a plateau. Old techniques are holding them back. It usually relates to the fundamentals of technique.
Former players usually approach you as an expert that can provide their teenage dream. They have engrained feelings of failure and frustration but they enter into the student role believing that things are possible.

BEST MOMENTS

‘Each one of these groups has their own special set of problems and I see my job is to get them past their problem, their blockage and it really all boils down to how they think and what they believe.’

‘So they end up struggling with self doubt and they ask themselves ‘is this as good as I’m gonna get? Is this a far as I can go?’ Or ‘What am I missing?’’

‘I can usually read them so well they think I’m psychic. It’s taken decades of study, a lot of money and a lot of time invested in building that skill base.’

VALUABLE RESOURCES

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

About Time

Sun, 08 May 2022 23:00:00 -0000

In this episode Neil explains the value of time. How do we value, use and sell our time in our teaching and coaching businesses?

KEY TAKEAWAYS

You are never going to have enough time to do everything you want. Choose tasks that have the highest value to you to make your time count.
If you are spending too much time working in your business, you may not be spending enough time working on your business.
Make investments that can make money for you in the background with little or no intervention from you.

BEST MOMENTS

‘Its very interesting to nip back and have a look at what I was thinking four years ago to what I’m thinking now.’

‘Working in the business is face to face with your customers, with your students. Working on your business is figuring out how to make more money out of what you do in less time.’

‘Anything that you can hire out consider adding that to your business.’

VALUABLE RESOURCES

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

Time Boxing and Blocking

Sun, 01 May 2022 23:00:00 -0000

Time Boxing is a simple and useful time management technique that Neil utilises to keep his tutoring business running chaos free. With this method you will not waste time, and subsequently, money.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Use paper so you can see it all in front of you without having to open software or be distracted by social media alerts.
In your diary spaces have two columns, one for notes and the other half hour increments with three columns ; Plan A, B and C.
Plan A is the game plan for the day. For each allocated time and task, draw a horizontal line in that section. Include meals and breaks.
Plan B is the backup plans when plan A’s aren’t possible and are blocked by circumstance.
Plan C column, usually blank due to plan A and B failing being remote, is for this eventuality.
Have start and end times for activities and as you use the method more often you will become more knowledgable in how long tasks take and this diary is there to be referred to as a record of your time use.

BEST MOMENTS

‘Paper is the real deal. It will always tell you the truth and will always be straight and honest with you.’

‘I do this at the start of every weekend as part of my week ahead preview and also have a look at it at the end of every day.’

‘Let’s say, my plan is to get up and cycle to the gym do the workout and come home. But I get up and we’ve had a snowfall overnight. Maybe my bikes got a technical problem or something unexpected comes up that prevents plan A from happening. So, maybe plan B is to drive to the gym.’

‘The whole point is to always have start and end times for your activities. Now I find that his focuses you terribly well and it always has a properly thought through, ahead of time , automatic go to plan just in case.’

VALUABLE RESOURCES

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

info@neilcowmeadow.com

Routines and Habits

Sun, 24 Apr 2022 23:00:00 -0000

Neil talks about the value of routine when built into the function of you and your business. What sort of routines are beneficial to your business in standardising your methods and improving your mindset day to day? Consistency is key.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

A routine is something that you perform the same way every time you action a task. Once established they become habit and can come in the form of written, formalised instructions to staff on official operating procedure. They can be checklists to be completed for things such as signup or new tenancy agreements.
Schedule the day ahead before it starts. Be prepared ahead of time to give the right impression and make the best of your time.
From the first greeting to saying goodbye at the end of the session, having a routine with your client can give a good, professional impression and put them at ease. If you standardise your language you can also effectively communicate.
Make a habit of asking your client if they got what they needed from your session. Routine feedback keeps them and you on track. Keep relevant notes so that next session you know where you left off and the improvement can continue with as little time wasted on recaps as possible.
Back office routines are important in day to day operation. Accounting and record keeping kept to routine can stop those tasks piling up. Regular marketing will keep the clients rolling in.
Make self improvement routine. Self development keeps you ahead of the curve.

BEST MOMENTS

‘They’re actually your yardstick for the standard of performance that you’ve are going to accept from the people you employ and from yourself.’

‘I honestly ask myself “how did I do today? Was I the sort of person I wanted to be today?”’

‘Your language is a big chunk of how your going to communicate with your clients. Make sure it’s appropriate. Make sure it’s interesting. Make sure it’s correct.’

‘Stupid people wish they knew what the answer was but the clever people ask the question.’

VALUABLE RESOURCES

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

info@neilcowmeadow.com

Big Picture Thinking and The Long Run

Sun, 17 Apr 2022 23:00:00 -0000

Don’t wing it! Think long term, and think big. Neil talks about how thinking 5, 10, or 15 years ahead with your plan can result in better long term results and how a solid overview can bring clarity to an otherwise muddled and random business.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Consider a strategy in terms of how lucrative and engaging it can be over years rather than in the short term.
Try to think a few moves ahead with your business and anticipate rather than react.
Weigh up the long term effects of your actions and the costs of short term decisions.

BEST MOMENTS

‘Big picture thinking and the long run is really the ability to look beyond today, to 3, 5, 10 or more years down the line, as though you are looking down from a high point perhaps onto everything that you are doing in that future reality.’

‘I showed him my epic budgeted business plan which pretty accurately modelled the first ten years of the property journey along with my guitar teaching business.’

‘My old boss told me this and I thought it was a crock. Not listening to his advice back then cost me at least ten years of progress based on that singular insight.’

VALUABLE RESOURCES

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

The Disruptive Question

Sun, 10 Apr 2022 23:00:00 -0000

A simple idea. If what you are currently doing is not producing the results you want, change it. Disrupt it. Trying another method has got to be better than continuing with a system that does not work. Disruption makes good sense. Break the pattern.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Instead of asking “how do I succeed?” ask “how do I screw up?” Chances are your already doing some of these things. Identify the things you need to change.
Your present normal is just an ongoing trial. If the trial isn’t working, trial something else.
Observe the people around you. Around 85% of people are unhappy in their jobs. Their normal isn’t working, don’t do those things.

BEST MOMENTS

‘It’s a great idea. On many levels it’s a great, great idea to disrupt yourself, to muck things about, bugger yourself up a bit, especially if your everyday normal isn’t working for you.’

‘What would I need to do to ensure I was unsuccessful in my business? What would I need to do to guarantee I was a failure in my health? What would I need to do to guarantee I never accumulate wealth? What would I need to do to remain frustrated in my creative endeavours?’

‘If the TV washes you everyday in depressing bad news and fear soaked propaganda, wouldn’t it make sense to eliminate the TV from your life?’

VALUABLE RESOURCES

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

info@neilcowmeadow.com

Easy, Light, Smooth, Fast…and FUN!

Sun, 03 Apr 2022 23:00:00 -0000

Neil details his teaching method to keep his students engaged, entertained and inspired. Borrowed from a method found in Christopher McDougall's 2009 best-selling book, "Born to Run: A Hidden Tribe, Super Athletes, and the Greatest Race the World Has Never Seen.", Neil has adapted it to his own guitar teaching and added in his own ingredient that guarantees a return student ; fun.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Easy. Use simple ideas, shapes and forms that regenerate and repeat themselves. Keep things familiar and comfortable and eschew complexity for accessibility and ease.
Light. Minimise physical effort. Position and comfort is key. Understand biomechanically correct technique.
Smooth. Use a natural, soft style to lead towards a subtle mellifluous sound.
Fast. After initial stages of easy routines learned to an automatic level the student will be able to achieve more speed.
Fun. The underpinning of all of this. Use jokes and playfulness. Be relaxed, informal, encouraging and supportive. Use language that is fun. ‘Have a play around’ instead of ‘Go and practice’.

BEST MOMENTS

‘The idea originated with McDougall’s running coach, a guy called Eric Orton. He got Chris running a 50 mile trail race in spite of his busted up legs and a string of running injuries.’

‘Cause if it ain’t fun the student won’t want to do it and I’ll get fed up with teaching it because I get fed up with doing anything that isn’t fun. There are better ways to spend my time and better ways for them to spend their time. Is that true or is it just true?’

‘You end up with sore fingers as well. The whole ‘playing ‘til your fingers bleed’ is just moronic. It’s a cliché propagated by idiots and drongos.’

‘However heinous an error, a misunderstanding actually is, I will try and figure out how it’s a good thing. If they make a mistake, they’ve just figured out a cool way to not do something.’

VALUABLE RESOURCES

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

info@neilcowmeadow.com

Eliminate The Undesirables

Sun, 27 Mar 2022 23:00:00 -0000

Neil discusses the self doubt that plagues us with a special episode created for his friend, a retired science teacher, the best teacher during his time as a school guitar tutor. As great a teacher as she is she still struggles to believe in herself as a private tutor. There is one lesson Neil teaches that can quieten the doubts and make tutoring a comfortable place to be, DDWT.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Part of the job you have when you are running your own business is making sure that you only work with the right people.
Invariably an undesirable will remove themselves from you by just their own nature. When asked to follow rules, instructions or consequences, they walk.
Fire your worst customers. There is no amount of money that’s worth being that miserable for.

BEST MOMENTS

‘Her inner voice says nasty things to her. Like “people wont like you”, “nobody will want you”, “no one will need you”, “they’ll say your too expensive, that you’re not worth the money”, “they’ll bugger you about and they won’t show up for lessons and that’s because you’re not good enough.”’

‘As you know I boil this down to a rule, DDWT, which stands for ‘DON’T DEAL WITH TOSSERS’. And the tossers always self select themselves off the schedule.’

‘You take someone who makes you miserable and you replace them with someone who makes you feel fantastic. And you get payed more money for it.’

VALUABLE RESOURCES

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

info@neilcowmeadow.com

The SAID Training Model

Mon, 21 Mar 2022 00:00:00 -0000

Neil introduces a traditional sport training model, one that can be applied to a number of teaching applications including Neil’s guitar tutoring business. SAID is an acronym for Specific Adaptation to Imposed Demand and can be used by you in your teaching, mentoring or leadership role.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

If you are not conscious of how you train you will get any old result. The body and mind will only produce the most suitable changes in response to a given stimulus. If a student is convinced the training will be difficult, it will be.
When learning guitar students tend to use force but they can be trained to play gently and precisely.
Explain the desired outcome, how it will affect them, and the mechanism and techniques you will use to create it.

BEST MOMENTS

‘If you teach anything which demands core skills, or if you’re a coach I think this is a very useful idea to drop into your mental melting pot.’

‘Almost nobody in over 23 years teaching guitar now, nobody really trained to be gentle, smooth, elegant or precise.’

‘It’s wise to assume nobody has the basics. I’ve never met anybody in 23 years teaching who has.’

VALUABLE RESOURCES

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

info@neilcowmeadow.com

Free Initial Consultations

Mon, 14 Mar 2022 00:00:00 -0000

Hi, it’s Neil Cowmeadow here EPISODE 210 of The Tutor Podcast, the weekly show that’s all about how to Start, Grow and Love your tutoring business... whilst staying sane and having fun in the process.

In today’s Episode 210 - Free Introduction Sessions

Specifically, how I do it now (not how I used to) and the reasons why I think this is the sanest and best business way of finding the right students for you.

First up – I’m a guitar teacher: 23 years in and loving it!

Who else can say that?

How do I do it?

Two rules:

Don’t do stuff that makes you unhappy - DDSS
Don’t deal with tossers – DDWT

Simple.

DDSS takes care of itself:

figure out what you love to do
what you’d do for nothing because it is so much fun (teaching guitar)
figure out how to get well paid for doing it
spend as much time as you like doing that thing.
You’ll never do a day’s work again!
Your enthusiasm rubs off on your students

DDWT is another story:

Initially you’ll work with anyone – just check for a pulse!
Before long the tosssers will begin to grate on your nerves.
Fire them.
That’s the hard way, and most people start that way.
Now I do this instead:

When taking the sales call or answering an email enquiry I invite them to come for a free half-hour one-to-one
I can find out what they want
Can I honestly hep them?
Do I want to work with this person?
Do they want to work with me – am I a tosser in their view?
Whatever happens, this is being done for the best reasons: if they are not our tribe we can steer them towards another person who would be a better fit for them.
I try to solve their biggest problem right there and then, for free. (usually bar chords and awful biomechanics – go hand in hand)
Why do I do this?
Because I can give massive, life-changing benefit on day one, for free!
If I only do that – get over a 34 year obstacle in 2 minutes, like I did today (chuck Berry Bounce with Matt, who’s played in bands since he was a teenager but couldn’t do this thing) they’ll automatically assume that if I can give THAT secret away, for free and with NO OBLIGATION I must have a ton of other great stuff, because what i’ve just done is clearly the tip of the iceberg.
I ask them if it helped – they say yes, more than anything they’ve ever done – and (if I want to work with them, I’ll ask them if they’d like to work with me.
Of course – having just had a decades-old problem fixed in a few minutes – they are desperate to work with me – I’m clearly a screaming genius!!!
They will then gush enthusiastically to their friends about this miraculous teacher and what I did in a free session.

What would happen if I’d held back and not given them a free consultation and the gift of what they want most?

Maybe I’m salesy
Don’t display expertise and generosity
They wouldn’t leave in a better state than they came in
Maybe I’d be so-so...?
I didn’t Wow! them

What would happen if I didn’t eliminate the undesirables at an early stage??

I might have to spend time with unpleasant people
That might ruin my day
Might undermine the joy of teaching for me
They might be stuck with someone who doesn’t get them
Potentially problematic relationship for a long time

So that’s how I do it, and why I do it. I think it’s completely ethical, honest, generous and the very best way to turn a prospective student into a screaming fan and an enthusiastic advocate of my business.

I can’t think of a better way to do a free intro consultation - How about you – got any ideas to throw into the mix?

I’d love to hear from you, because I’m here to learn, too.

Just send them to info@neilcowmeadow.com And Remember to subscribe to The Tutor Podcast and get all the updates and more tips to help you to Start, Grow and Love Your Tutoring Business.

And you can find me on Twitter where I am @tutorpodcast

So, until next time – Have a Fabulous Day!

Your Elevator Pitch

Mon, 07 Mar 2022 00:00:00 -0000

What do you say when someone asks “What do you do?”. It is time to have your Elevator Pitch ready. Employ an interesting, detailed, and productive reply that truly shows what you do for your clients and what, potentially, you could also do for them. Neil explains how and why.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Plan and rehearse your speech so you can use it off the cuff in conversation when your occupation is enquired after. It is much more than just ‘I’m an accountant”, and should be an approximately 30 second advertisement of you, your business, and the skills that you offer.
A perfected Elevator Pitch will give you confidence in social and business situations as you can be assured of a positive response. There will be no further questions as you will have been comprehensive in your response and you could possibly have gained a potential client.
Develop, enhance and evolve your Elevator Pitch. If part or all of it falls flat, don’t be afraid to rewrite or tweak it until it is perfect.

BEST MOMENTS

‘I think Elevator Pitch is a pretty good name. An elevator is a lift in the states and a pitch is a sales presentation that attempts to interest someone.’

‘It should be crafted, tested and revised. It’s an iterative process.’

‘Well. Officially I’m a guitar teacher but what I really do is hang out with my friends and play guitar all day, infecting them with my love affair for the guitar and helping them to learn quickly and make music of their own, using a unique back engineered teaching system to bypass boring old fashioned music teaching and do what really works right from the get-go. But best of all, I make it fun and part of that is I’ll only ever work with people I like.’

VALUABLE RESOURCES

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

info@neilcowmeadow.com

An Unreasonable Ask

Mon, 28 Feb 2022 00:00:00 -0000

Neil recalls an experience when a seemingly impossible task was suggested to him, with apparently very little chance of success. Having said yes anyway, a surprising unforeseen resulted in a few life lessons learned, and Neil recounts them in this episode.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

It is important to say ‘yes’ and then to say ‘it’s possible’. Never discard an opportunity.
Children all have the initial spark of creativity before they have it removed from them.
Make the lessons fun and they will be successful.
Even if time is an issue, get the basics in place first.
Have a firm faith in your students and they will develop faith in you.

BEST MOMENTS

‘Is she playing acoustic, electric or bass guitar? ‘She wants to play ukulele’ says the voice down the phone.’

‘It’s a completely unreasonable request. It’s crazy. In fact you couldn’t make this up. So naturally I said yes.’

‘They’d given her one of the highest musical aptitude scores they’d ever awarded. Wow. I knew she’d be ok but that top score was a total surprise.’

VALUABLE RESOURCES

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

info@neilcowmeadow.com

How To Write Anything

Mon, 21 Feb 2022 00:00:00 -0000

Write a book! Neil has written two, one on time management, ‘Elephant Sandwiches’ and the other on guitarists, ‘9 Weird Things Guitarists Do’ (both available on Amazon). Being a published author showcases your expertise in your field and can be fine marketing tools but how should we go about achieving this? Neil shares his advice on how to create your first written work.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Set aside a good amount of time, a minimum of three slots a week at fixed days and times. It is a matter of discipline to show up and do the work.
Plan your writing. Think about what you are most eager to share.
Define your audience. Create yourself an avatar, an imaginary representative of your target audience for you to ‘speak’ to in your writing.
Outline the book. Define style and length. How many chapters, titles and in what order? Plan with pen and paper and mentally dump all your ideas for each chapter.

BEST MOMENTS

‘Always write in the same place in the house. I have two offices. I have my business office, where the teaching company and the property business operate out of, and then there’s my writing office, my little nook.’

‘The aim for me was to help other people get past themselves to solve the problems that I used to have.’

‘Where are they? How much world experience do they have from their position in the world? Then think about their goals. What do they want out of it?’

‘I’ll outline the chapter titles. I’ll put the chapter title at the start of a page and then I’ll mentally dump all the points I can think for that chapter title.’

‘And seriously guys do this on paper, don’t do it on your PC. Generally speaking the PC is too slow. If you want to write a book on your phone good luck with that. I can’t. I write on the PC but I outline and plan on paper.’

VALUABLE RESOURCES

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

info@neilcowmeadow.com

Mind Their Language

Mon, 14 Feb 2022 00:00:00 -0000

Neil details how we communicate with our students can help us to gain their trust and confidence. Using his training in Neuro-linguistic Programming (NLP) techniques, Neil identifies the mode of expression his students use and matches it, increasing not only the speed and efficiency of learning, but his likability as a tutor and mentor.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

In Neils experience as a tutor, NLP has been an invaluable tool in communicating with his students and improving his interactions generally.
By observing how people are expressing themselves you can gain insight into the ways that they think.
People often use phrases such as “I can’t see it, that doesn’t look right” or, “It doesn’t sound right”. These identify them either as a visual language user or a auditory language user. Others may be smell based or sensory, someone who “feels”.
By matching your language to theirs, using visual imagery for instance for a visual language user, you can improve your relationship and influence with your student.

BEST MOMENTS

‘When I began to listen more acutely to what they were saying, it gave me a window into the way they thought.’

‘Conversation used to be me waiting for my turn to speak, but as NLP got into my system I started to really listen to what people were saying. ‘

‘There are just an odd few people who are what I call “taste mongers”. These are generally known as olfactory or gustatory sensation streams, or language types. They’re all about taste and smell.’

VALUABLE RESOURCES

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

info@neilcowmeadow.com

Your Thermostat

Mon, 07 Feb 2022 00:00:00 -0000

I Love Failure

Mon, 31 Jan 2022 00:00:00 -0000

Many of us have a very unhealthy and self abusive relationship with the concept and acceptance of failure. Neil discusses why it matters to tutors and business people and how, instead of using it as a mark to your detriment, you should try seeing it as a learning step and opportunity.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Remember, failure is an interim state unless your response to it is to give up.
Encourage failures to your students as the necessary steps towards success.
We are often taught from an early age that we should avoid failure no matter what. However this can just be a block to learning that can eventually prevent us from acquiring the skills and knowledge to achieve success.

BEST MOMENTS

‘I work with lots of students and mentees who are terrified of failure so they hold back, either never try or half arse it and kid themselves. Imagine showing up for a guitar lesson and being so afraid of failure that you cant even play any note.’

‘Just about everyone who has ever done anything to better mankind failed before they succeeded. Lots of their efforts didn’t work , so they paused, reviewed what went wrong and what went right, then got on to develop another approach.’

‘Remember, by avoiding the risk of failure you are also avoiding the risk of success.’

VALUABLE RESOURCES

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

info@neilcowmeadow.com

The Money Mindgame

Mon, 24 Jan 2022 00:00:00 -0000

The nature of money and your attitude towards it can be complex and difficult and can affect all areas of your life. Neil shares his own ideas and beliefs about money which have allowed him to achieve success in his own field as a guitar tutor, and will also assist you in your endeavours by understanding moneys nature and its place in your life.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Money is a tool. It’s a construct for storing value and a neutral social convention.
Gold used to be the social equivalent of its value in gold held by the countries and institutions that press or print it. This hasn’t been the case since 1931.
With money, skills and services that would never fit into a barter system can be given value.
Your beliefs about money directly affect how you acquire it. Distrust of money will stunt your efforts to gather it.
Be aware that your attitude towards money may have been manipulated by outdated religious ideas spread to pass your money to them and has resulted in the concept of money as evil.
If you are wealthy you then have the freedom to express your inner self unfettered by lack of funds.

BEST MOMENTS

‘Moneys not good, its not bad, its just a tool. Like a blade you can use it to harvest food or slice people up into little pieces.’

‘Because it’s not actually backed by anything, money is not worth a damn thing. It’s made up and agreed upon and that’s fine as long as everyone agrees…’

‘I’m struggling at the moment to imagine carrying enough teaching to the bakery to go and buy some bread.’

‘What I now know is that people who tell you that money isn’t important don’t have any.’

‘Don’t take money advice from poor people.’

VALUABLE RESOURCES

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

info@neilcowmeadow.com

On Pricing

Mon, 17 Jan 2022 00:00:00 -0000

In this episode Neil tackles the thorny issue of pricing. The issue of how you set your price is often tied into how you actually feel about your product and can be the biggest clue to your client about the level of quality they can expect. Neil details the possible results of high, medium and low pricing.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Your price you charge will tie very closely to your sense of self worth. If you feel that your product or service is high quality you will charge a high price accordingly.
If you believe you are average you will be uncomfortable charging a high rate so will set your price medium range.
If you feel you are low quality you will struggle to charge anything above low wage levels. It is very common to undervalue our skills because we find it easy but ease does not mean easy. You will attract custom that does not value the service you are offering and thus will be a poor student.

BEST MOMENTS

‘Person one believes they are worth top dollar. Person two believes they are okayish, average and then there’s the person who believes they are not that great. Three different belief systems that will give you very different results.’

‘That higher pricing gives them automatically a higher perceived value in the eyes of the customer. It also gives them more status.’

‘If they an get you to argue about your rates they’ll get you to argue about everything else.’

VALUABLE RESOURCES

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

info@neilcowmeadow.com

A Heartfelt NO

Mon, 10 Jan 2022 00:00:00 -0000

In this episode Neil talks about saying no. Sometimes we have to say no for the betterment of our mental health and to guard our wealth but often saying no can be difficult and socially awkward. How and when should we say no to save ourselves from taking on tasks which disadvantage our resources?

KEY TAKEAWAYS

We can say yes to the wrong thing, job or person and quickly get out of our depth. We must get good at saying no and not replying yes by default.
Pause when presented with an opportunity or request. Look a few years ahead and see if it will affect your real goals. Will it eat up your time or money? Will it require you to compromise your standards or ideals?
Bluntness is the clearest way of communicating but you can be careful with your refusal to save hurting feelings. You can always point them in them in the direction of someone who can help.

BEST MOMENTS

‘Saying no to people can make us feel uncomfortable. We are perhaps afraid we might hurt their feelings or we might say not to a “bright shiny penny” of an idea that looks great but might just leave us in the wrong place.’

‘Perhaps a better tack is “not yet” or “not now”. You could say “that’s not really what I do so I’m out of the game on this one”.’

‘There are always loads of ways to say no. Be creative. Be courageous.’

VALUABLE RESOURCES

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

info@neilcowmeadow.com

Self Honesty

Mon, 03 Jan 2022 00:00:00 -0000

In this 200th episode Neil tackles the problem of facing up to uncomfortable truths. What must we do to face up to identify what is good and bad for us, about us and move forward with a more honest viewpoint of ourselves?

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Recognise the habits and routines that are not taking you where you want to go and change them.
We always want to justify to ourselves our damaging habits but concentrate on not telling lies to yourself.
Be courageous with yourself consistently with brutal honesty.

BEST MOMENTS

‘Coach said that if my aim was to be ripped and lean I should go to my kitchen and remove everything that wasn’t going to help me to be lean and strong.’

‘I had to recalibrate everything based on a harsh reality.’

‘It conceals the truth behind a smokescreen and that’s a recipe for disaster.’

VALUABLE RESOURCES

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

info@neilcowmeadow.com

New Year’s Resolutions Are SO Last year

Mon, 27 Dec 2021 00:00:00 -0000

Research suggests that 80% of New Years resolutions are broken by the end of January. Neil has suggestions about how you can direct your good intentions more fruitfully by detailing what he’s going to be doing at this turning of the year.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

New Years resolutions are a daft idea because they’re a one-off that fails for most people. How about a daily resolution.
Do something every day that propels you forward, benefits your business or increases your success.
Your finances are a result of your actions throughout a whole year not just one day.

BEST MOMENTS

‘Joggers will be all over the place for a week or two’

‘What if you had 365 New Years Days and you just rolled the start of your year forward one day at a time.’

‘I love hearing from you guys because I’m here to learn from you too.’

VALUABLE RESOURCES

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

info@neilcowmeadow.com

The Christmas Show

Mon, 20 Dec 2021 00:00:00 -0000

In this episode Neil talks all things Christmas and what it means to him from his spiritual take to what he will be doing over the holiday.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Why is Christmas the one time of the year where you break away from your normal way of being and demonstrate good will to all men?
Neil is going to be in the mountains this Christmas, walking and riding and surrounding himself with nature. He needs to keep himself occupied when not teaching.
Spend Christmas looking forward at your finances and any changes you can make for the future in your business and your personal life, your health and your family.

BEST MOMENTS

‘I’m not going to rant about it.”

‘It’s important to step back and take care of your principle tool, your body.’

‘My family is he reason I do what I do. My big family ; my students and my blood family ; my son, my brothers, cousins, nephews, nieces.’

VALUABLE RESOURCES

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

info@neilcowmeadow.com

Keeping Basic Records - Part 3 - Expenses and Everything Else

Mon, 13 Dec 2021 00:00:00 -0000

In this episode, Neil covers accounting for expenses and all the not so obvious in and out costs of the business that can affect your profitability and your tax liability. He details the tax allowances you are entitled to and what you should be asking your accountant about.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

If you are using a vehicle for your business you are entitled to claim a mileage allowance for use of that vehicle. Keep a daily record of your mileage.
If you take any training courses, uniform or mobile communication keep receipts and claim it back.
Remember to include depreciation of assets. As your assets devalue, you may claim that back that as an expense.

BEST MOMENTS

‘I keep a single A4 sheet across all my business and they just have a single column each from which I can extract the data.’

‘Parking for business is essential. Claim it back.’

‘These are things that aren’t tangible. This is where your accountant should be doing some work for you.’

VALUABLE RESOURCES

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

info@neilcowmeadow.com

Keeping Basic Records - Part 2 - Sales

Mon, 06 Dec 2021 00:00:00 -0000

This week, Neil explains how crucial it is to keep accurate regular accounts of your sales. In the second of this three part series of episodes detailing his method of accounting, Neil shares his tips on how to accurately record your daily sales into an easy referable format to streamline you and your accountants overview of your business and not fall foul of the taxman.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Do not second guess the taxman! Don’t assume what they will and won’t want to see
especially when recording cash transactions. This will protect your peace of mind in the future.
Keep a simple record sheet of everything you’ve sold during each day by all transaction methods ; cash, cards or transfer. Use this to cross reference against your banks statements.
Keep your personal finances and business completely separate from each other. Bank cash promptly.

BEST MOMENTS

‘31st of January is your deadline. Get everything lined up, get it sorted. You won’t want to do it after Christmas’

‘If you’ve got clear records of how you’ve been impacted you can obtain grants.’

‘Like they said in Ghostbusters ; “Don’t cross the streams! It could be bad.”’

VALUABLE RESOURCES

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

info@neilcowmeadow.com

Keeping Basic Records: Part 1 - Purchases

Mon, 29 Nov 2021 00:00:00 -0000

This week, Neil explains how crucial it is to keep accurate accounts of your purchases. In the first of this three part series of episodes detailing his method of accounting, Neil shares his tips on how to easily and accurately store and record all your purchase invoices for easy reference.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Every unaccounted for purchase means you are voluntarily going to pay more tax.
Use an easy software package like QuickFile to electronically record your purchases.
Write the software generated code for each entry directly onto the hard copy of your purchase invoice for easy cross reference.

BEST MOMENTS

‘Get your ducks in a row so you don’t fall foul of Jonny tax man.’

‘My purchase invoices are easy to find.These can add up to hundreds of pounds every year.’

‘HMRC love sloppy business owners.”

VALUABLE RESOURCES

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

info@neilcowmeadow.com

Setting The Stage

Mon, 22 Nov 2021 00:00:00 -0000

This week, Neil discusses the importance of your workspace and how to maximise efficiency so you can concentrate on inspiring and informing your students.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

When designing your working space keep in mind the image you are presenting to your student and the learning atmosphere you wish to present.
When arranging seating always leave a clean line of exit for your student. This will ensure that they are psychologically relaxed..
Pay as much attention even when remote teaching, keep your zoom teaching bright and presentable.

BEST MOMENTS

‘The movie set on which you act out your part as teacher.’

‘Everything about your teaching space transmits the level to which you’ve thought about thing.’

‘All this stuff matters, it matters more than you realise.”

VALUABLE RESOURCES

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

info@neilcowmeadow.com

Your Daily Journal

Mon, 15 Nov 2021 00:00:00 -0000

This week, Neil discusses the power of journaling – how it has positively impacted not just his own journey as a tutor, but his life in general, and why keeping a journal for yourself might be the missing tool in your own world.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Countless famous and successful people have kept journals, either as part of a collective series of memoirs, or as a way of diarising and organising.
Journaling keeps up focussed, positive and committed to our personal work and vision.
Journals can consist of a record containing our daily routine, and can aid us in gaining new perspectives on the way we have thought over a period of time, and the habits that we have developed.

BEST MOMENTS

‘I can vouch for the power of journaling’

‘It’s helped to keep me focussed, sane and positive’

‘It’s kind of like me talking on paper, to myself’

VALUABLE RESOURCES

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

info@neilcowmeadow.com

The Laws Of Human Stupidity

Mon, 08 Nov 2021 00:00:00 -0000

This week, Neil reflects upon the words of Carlo Cipolla from 1976, and his work on ‘The Human Laws Of Stupidity’ – five laws that may explain a lot about the world around us today…

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Everybody underestimates the number of stupid people. The number around us is way higher than you may think.
Stupidity does not rely upon factors such as race, religion, sex, profession, or income level.
Non-stupid people underestimate the danger of stupid people. Stupid people are irrational and unpredictable, and we cannot plan for their effects.

BEST MOMENTS

'The probability of someone being stupid doesn’t correlate with any other factors’

‘It’s a behavioural trait of stupidity’

‘Stupid people are the most dangerous people in the world. They are the spanners in the works of the world’

VALUABLE RESOURCES

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

info@neilcowmeadow.com

Changes

Mon, 01 Nov 2021 00:00:00 -0000

One thing that we can all rely on in life, is change. No matter how hard we try, the world around us will change, and so will we. But as Neil discusses on this week's show, since change is inevitable, what can we do about it?

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Everything changes every day. We must stay positive about the things we want, staying firm on our outcomes and our desired end-point.
If change outside of ourselves occurs, respond to it, but in a way that preserves our momentum as we move towards our dreams.
Recent tribulations have proved that we are resilient and adaptable. Life is never completely smooth sailing, but remember that fun comes in the twists and turns.

BEST MOMENTS

'Change is the one constant in life'

'Dance with the changes - be fleet footed and agile'

'Keep faith with yourself'

'If we can remain robust, strong, and ambitious with ourselves, then whatever change comes we'll make it'

VALUABLE RESOURCES

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

info@neilcowmeadow.com

Know Thyself

Sun, 24 Oct 2021 23:00:00 -0000

Before we can hope to know others, and instruct them, we must know ourselves. In this episode, Neil pauses to reflect upon the value of connecting with ourselves, and the value it can bring to our skills as the tutor of others.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

We must take time to pause, reflect, think and consider, in order to better observe the patterns of life.
Take time to think about what makes us happy, who makes us happy, how time affects the way we interact with the world, and the very structure of each day in order to get the best out of it.
Life has become a case of 24-7 connection. We are rarely ever disconnect from the world and its chaos. We must take time for ourselves in order to gain new perspectives.

BEST MOMENTS

'If one knows oneself, one's future is a matter of will and choice'

'Know yourself, while you go to consult about your future'

'Everything begins with you'

VALUABLE RESOURCES

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

info@neilcowmeadow.com

The Remedials

Sun, 17 Oct 2021 23:00:00 -0000

This week, Neil discusses a very special sub-group of his very own students – a group he likes to refer to as “The Remedials”. All tutors will have come across students like this in their tutoring journey. In this episode Neil shares his thoughts on how to get the best out of them.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

A remedial is a long-time practitioner of their craft, who has become stuck in their ways. Sometimes it takes an external perspective for them to move forward.
It doesn’t matter where you come from in life or how skilled you are in your field, the influence of a tutor can always be beneficial.
Change comes incrementally. Look for the areas in which you wish to improve and then focus and refine.

BEST MOMENTS

“I’ve had multiple moments of insight and clarity”

“I’m a bit of a contrarian, I like to run against the grain of things”

“Many of them want to move on. This is when I get the Obi Wan Kenobi phone call”

VALUABLE RESOURCES

Listen to The Tutor Podcast on the Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-tutor-podcast/id1369191372)!
- Build Your Online Course Week 1: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/build-your-online-course/id1369191372?i=1000477109724
- Course Planning Week 2: Who Am I?: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/build-your-online-course/id1369191372?i=1000477109724
- Who are They? (Know Your Punters): https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/who-are-they-know-your-punters/id1369191372?i=1000478984529
Read the Weird Things Guitarists Do book by Neil Cowmeadow, which is available now on Amazon. Link - https://www.amazon.co.uk/Weird-Things-Guitarists-Do-Misconceptions/dp/1519026579/
Contact Neil via this website - com!

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

info@neilcowmeadow.com

Copyright and You

Sun, 10 Oct 2021 23:00:00 -0000

The internet is very useful but has many pitfalls, traps and risks, and perhaps surprisingly Neil was recently caught out by one of these – copyright law bots. If Neil with his wealth of experience can be caught out, so can you, so listen in to this episode to find out more and the dos and don’ts of using images!

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Neil’s top suggestions for you if you use images on your website, blog or social media:

Don’t use images at all – simple policy, but it will affect readership, search rankings, and the look of your site or post
Make your own images – and outlet for your creative side, but it takes time and practice to develop an eye and to produce good results
Use images which are explicitly free to use – public domain. Many PD images are free for personal use, but NOT for commercial/business use. Be careful, and don’t try to fudge it.
Buy a license for any image you use – from a few pence up to hundreds of pounds per year – sometimes even more than that.

BEST MOMENTS
“We all ought to know about copyright”

“I should have been a bit more careful…I understand copyright law”

“My first thought was that it was a scam, but I did my due diligence and it was kosher”

VALUABLE RESOURCES

Listen to The Tutor Podcast on the Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-tutor-podcast/id1369191372)!
- Build Your Online Course Week 1: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/build-your-online-course/id1369191372?i=1000477109724
- Course Planning Week 2: Who Am I?: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/build-your-online-course/id1369191372?i=1000477109724
- Who are They? (Know Your Punters): https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/who-are-they-know-your-punters/id1369191372?i=1000478984529
Read the Weird Things Guitarists Do book by Neil Cowmeadow, which is available now on Amazon. Link - https://www.amazon.co.uk/Weird-Things-Guitarists-Do-Misconceptions/dp/1519026579/
Contact Neil via this website - com!

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

info@neilcowmeadow.com

Talking to Parts - Unlocking Deep Resistance

Sun, 03 Oct 2021 23:00:00 -0000

“Working with parts” is the NLP idea of unlocking deep resistance and talking with different parts of the brain. Neil discusses how to introduce “working with parts” into your tutoring business, how to uncover what drives your student’s behaviors and why WWP can help you remove the resistances in a students mind to help them learn more efficiently.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

‘Working with parts’ is a very useful tool for working with adults and is great at getting past students’ sticking points and separating their egos. Often WWP uncovers driver behaviours and you’ll learn why a student does what they do.
There are a variety of approaches to ‘working with parts’ but firstly, agree with the student that you can talk to the part of their mind which controls a particular behaviour that is getting in the way. This is important because it gets the student out of the way, then you can ask questions to that part of the student’s mind and agree for them to step back in order for the student to grow.
Often a tutor may need to speak with and get answers with many parts of a students mind, sometimes one is just enough. It depends on the student and what’s holding them back from learning, sometimes it’s being a perfectionist.
Every master was once a disaster and imperfection is where the growth and fun is. By implementing ‘working with parts’ into your tutoring practice you may find that students feel like a weight has been lifted from their shoulders.

BEST MOMENTS

“I test everything. If it works, I add it to my toolkit and start looking for more tools.”
“Where the mind goes, the body follows”
“I can speak with, and get answers from many aspects of the student’s mind. Sometimes I’ll need to speak with 3 or 4 parts, sometimes just one is enough.”
“I’ve been told on numerous occasions that my student “feels like a weight has been lifted off their shoulders” that had been there for years – and even decades.”

VALUABLE RESOURCES

Listen to The Tutor Podcast on the Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-tutor-podcast/id1369191372)!
- Build Your Online Course Week 1: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/build-your-online-course/id1369191372?i=1000477109724
- Course Planning Week 2: Who Am I?: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/build-your-online-course/id1369191372?i=1000477109724
- Who are They? (Know Your Punters): https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/who-are-they-know-your-punters/id1369191372?i=1000478984529
Read the Weird Things Guitarists Do book by Neil Cowmeadow, which is available now on Amazon. Link - https://www.amazon.co.uk/Weird-Things-Guitarists-Do-Misconceptions/dp/1519026579/
Contact Neil via this website - com!

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

info@neilcowmeadow.com

How Goals Really Work

Sun, 26 Sep 2021 23:00:00 -0000

Do you often find yourself setting grand, ambitious goals, only to never find yourself achieving them? Join Neil today as he explains why setting goals is a biological process and to understand goals, you need to understand yourself. Neil shares his secret to achieving your dreams and how slow, measurable steps will set you on your journey to success.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

To set goals it is important to understand what a goal is. A goal is a desired future state, situation or outcome. Whilst it is good to know what you want, you need to be more specific by creating a timeline and making them actionable.
Goals have many levels at the top of the goal tree are your vision goals which are long term. These are what you ultimately want however they are so far out that they may seem intangible and it may be hard to believe in them. Often we make them vague and fuzzy which mean we cannot connect to them.
Outcome goals are the big milestones on the way to your vision goals. Their results are processes and they are tangible. They are also specific and measurable. It may be something like going on a cruise, making your first million or buying your first investment property.
Objective goals are smaller milestones that run over a shorter term. They are still taking you in the direction that you want to go and are the building blocks of your outcome goals. These projects move you forward and are things such as writing a new book, completing another song or saving 20% of your income.
Next are personal performance goals which are about expanding and growing your skills. Things such as receiving a degree or even just taking up healthy practices and building up a great body. These are short term and always seem a bit more achievable.
The process goals are your daily deeds goals. These are the right actions that you need to hit your performance and project goals. Ask yourself today what you can do to move in the right direction to achieve these goals.

BEST MOMENTS

“They’re milestones. They are segments along the way.”

“What can I do today to move me in the right direction?”

“These days I see goals as being like a pyramid.”

VALUABLE RESOURCES

Listen to The Tutor Podcast on the Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-tutor-podcast/id1369191372)!
- Build Your Online Course Week 1: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/build-your-online-course/id1369191372?i=1000477109724
- Course Planning Week 2: Who Am I?: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/build-your-online-course/id1369191372?i=1000477109724
- Who are They? (Know Your Punters): https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/who-are-they-know-your-punters/id1369191372?i=1000478984529
Read the Weird Things Guitarists Do book by Neil Cowmeadow, which is available now on Amazon. Link -https://www.amazon.co.uk/Weird-Things-Guitarists-Do-Misconceptions/dp/1519026579/
Contact Neil via this website - com!

ABOUT THE HOST

Neil Cowmeadow is a maverick peripatetic guitar teacher from Telford with over 19 years of experience in the business of helping people. Learn how to start, grow and love your business with Neil’s invaluable advice and tips without the buzzwords and BS!

CONTACT METHOD

info@neilcowmeadow.com

Building a Killer Work Ethic

Sun, 19 Sep 2021 23:00:00 -0000

Discover the importance of having a killer work ethic and how having one, can create amazing things for you and your business. Neil discusses the importance of removing all distractions when you sit down to work, why a strong work ethic is so rare and therefore valuable and why sticking to a routine is so beneficial.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

The definition of ‘work’ is a physical or mental activity undertaken to produce results. The definition of ‘ethic’ is the study of moral principles that govern a person's behaviour or the conduct of an activity.
When you work make sure you have a solid plan. To ensure you do not waste time, turn your phone off, close all distracting windows on your PC, turn off notifications, put your nose to the grindstone and get on with your work.
Put the time in relentlessly. Be consistent every day by creating a pattern of work and sticking to a routine every day. Constantly test improvements that will help you and your business evolve.
A strong work ethic is rare and it is therefore valuable and since money is a marker for value – you will earn more money by working hard.
Set your standards, and keep adjusting and improving them. Work ethic is like a muscle – you grow it slowly, avoid burnout, and you get stronger.

BEST MOMENTS

“immediacy has value, it's rare.”

“Do work you can be proud of.”

“I want to help people”

VALUABLE RESOURCES

Listen to The Tutor Podcast on the Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-tutor-podcast/id1369191372)!
- Build Your Online Course Week 1: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/build-your-online-course/id1369191372?i=1000477109724
- Course Planning Week 2: Who Am I?: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/build-your-online-course/id1369191372?i=1000477109724
- Who are They? (Know Your Punters): https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/who-are-they-know-your-punters/id1369191372?i=1000478984529
Read the Weird Things Guitarists Do book by Neil Cowmeadow, which is available now on Amazon. Link -https://www.amazon.co.uk/Weird-Things-Guitarists-Do-Misconceptions/dp/1519026579/
Contact Neil via this website - com!

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

info@neilcowmeadow.com

Irrational Beliefs

Sun, 12 Sep 2021 23:00:00 -0000

Your students are most likely going to have entrenched beliefs that may affect their confidence levels, it is your job as a tutor to defeat these beliefs to help them thrive! Join Neil as he discusses how throwaway comments made by others can affect your students, why you should give your students time to ‘gather data and the importance of instilling optimism within your students.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Your Students are likely to have entrenched beliefs and you must discover them and defeat them. This is one of the toughest obstacles to overcome in teaching.
Your students may tell you everything they think they are not. They may believe they are not talented or artistic. Ask them to change their language and put things differently.
Throwaway comments made by authority figures such as parents or teachers will often get deep inside the brain of your students. These comments will follow your students throughout their life if nothing is done about it.
To undermine their intrusive thoughts, give your students time to collect the data. Consistently let them discover that your methods work and that things are easy to do. Be consistent but also flexible, and over time you will build up enough evidence that it will collapse those unhelpful beliefs.
Above all else, you have to fire your students up with the emotions of optimism. Give them certainty and hope that things are possible as well as the possibility of achievement and fun. If you do that, they will stick around.

BEST MOMENTS

“Challenge their language, subtly, or overtly if necessary”

“you have to discover them and defeat them.”

“They’ve allowed that voice that seeks expression to die down.”

“Those unhelpful beliefs can't stay in the room if there is contradictory evidence.”

VALUABLE RESOURCES

Listen to The Tutor Podcast on the Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-tutor-podcast/id1369191372)!
- Build Your Online Course Week 1: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/build-your-online-course/id1369191372?i=1000477109724
- Course Planning Week 2: Who Am I?: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/build-your-online-course/id1369191372?i=1000477109724
- Who are They? (Know Your Punters): https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/who-are-they-know-your-punters/id1369191372?i=1000478984529
Read the Weird Things Guitarists Do book by Neil Cowmeadow, which is available now on Amazon. Link -https://www.amazon.co.uk/Weird-Things-Guitarists-Do-Misconceptions/dp/1519026579/
Contact Neil via this website - com!

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

info@neilcowmeadow.com

The Wrench - When Students Leave

Sun, 05 Sep 2021 23:00:00 -0000

DESCRIPTION

As September rolls around, so does the start of the new school year and you may find that some of your students are fleeing the nest to university. Today Neil discusses the emotional wrench of students leaving you, why after years of working together, a strong bond has been formed and why you should always be grateful to have been a part of their journey.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

An unexpected aspect of teaching guitar and helping students is the emotional wrench of students heading off to university, you may be unprepared for this. As a tutor you will have a caring instinct, you are a part of their development and you want to help shape and mould them. They, in turn, change you.
After working together for years, there’s an inevitable bond of trust, you are friends with mutual respect. Students become part of your own life story, you learn by teaching. Teachers get the best lessons so your students are also your teachers.
So when they go off to uni, it’s a massive wrench. They are like your family. Be proud of them even though you will miss working with them.
Be overjoyed to see them head off to continue their journey. Wish them well and make sure they know you are still able to work remotely. Many of them will keep in touch when they’re still in the area.
Reflect on their progress and always be grateful to be a part of their story. You have been a big positive in their lives. Make sure you get a testimonial from them that reflects your impact on their life.

BEST MOMENTS

“They, in turn, change us unless we are so remote as to not care about them”

“ Teachers get the best lessons.”

“I’m proud of them.”

“ I reflect on their progress and am grateful for being part of their story – I’ve been a big positive in their lives”

VALUABLE RESOURCES

Listen to The Tutor Podcast on the Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-tutor-podcast/id1369191372)!

Build Your Online Course Week 1: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/build-your-online-course/id1369191372?i=1000477109724
Course Planning Week 2: Who Am I?: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/build-your-online-course/id1369191372?i=1000477109724
Who are They? (Know Your Punters): https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/who-are-they-know-your-punters/id1369191372?i=1000478984529

Read the Weird Things Guitarists Do book by Neil Cowmeadow, which is available now on Amazon. Link - https://www.amazon.co.uk/Weird-Things-Guitarists-Do-Misconceptions/dp/1519026579/
Contact Neil via this website - com!

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

How to Grow

Sun, 29 Aug 2021 23:00:00 -0000

Too many people continuously chase the next shiny penny, which usually leaves them burnt out and frustrated. Join Neil as he shares how you can escape this vicious cycle and grow your business empire. Discover the importance of focusing on your core idea, how to create passive income and the ways to invest your money.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Too many people chase the next bright penny rather than learning and focusing on how to grow their business. What then happens is that people become distracted, lose focus and become burned out and frustrated as nothing seems to work for them.
Focus on one core thing that you can become so good at, you can’t be ignored. Optimise and maximise the core and ensure you don’t do anything else that demands time, effort or money until the core is secure.
When the first extension business is in place, add a diversified business to reduce risk if core and associate business fail. Look around, opportunities are everywhere. Things such as product creation and online selling businesses are a great start. The more passive, the better.
The cash from your core needs a place to grow and investments are the way to do it. Investment opportunities such as ISAs, Pensions, Angel Investor and Property are great opportunities.
Focus like a laser on That Thing You Do and be so good at it you’re as busy and successful as you want to be. Once you have that, add a little something, make that awesome – rinse and repeat – add diversified passive businesses wherever you can. Invest, and make the money work for you.

BEST MOMENTS

“Get so good at it you can’t be ignored”

“Whatever you can sell from the core as a natural extension of your core business, where your authority is.”

“the more passive, the better”

“look around – opportunities are everywhere”

VALUABLE RESOURCES

Listen to The Tutor Podcast on the Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-tutor-podcast/id1369191372)!

Build Your Online Course Week 1: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/build-your-online-course/id1369191372?i=1000477109724
Course Planning Week 2: Who Am I?: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/build-your-online-course/id1369191372?i=1000477109724
Who are They? (Know Your Punters): https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/who-are-they-know-your-punters/id1369191372?i=1000478984529

Read the Weird Things Guitarists Do book by Neil Cowmeadow, which is available now on Amazon. Link - https://www.amazon.co.uk/Weird-Things-Guitarists-Do-Misconceptions/dp/1519026579/
Contact Neil via this website - com!

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

info@neilcowmeadow.com

Limited Companies

Sun, 22 Aug 2021 23:00:00 -0000

Join Neil today as he discusses everything you need to know about Limited Companies to help you decide if this business structure is the one for you. Neil discusses the setting up process, tax benefits and the legalities of limited companies.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Limited companies are separate legal entities which mean there is a total separation of business and person. The company can own assets and gives the shareholders of the business limited liability.
You have to register your company on Companies House, chose your name and pay your fee and then you have created a limited company. You will have to let them know who the directors are. Anything that goes on Companies House is a matter of public record and is freely accessible to everyone online.
You need to register with HMRC for corporation tax. You only need to pay tax on your profits.
Whilst it may be a bit of a hassle to set up a limited business, it comes with many benefits. It is flexible, tax-efficient and has a hybrid structure.

BEST MOMENTS

“Disclaimer, this is NOT legal or financial advice, it’s an overview designed to get you thinking and organising what you do.”

“I love limited companies.:”

“It is all about options guys.”

VALUABLE RESOURCES

Listen to The Tutor Podcast on the Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-tutor-podcast/id1369191372)!
- Build Your Online Course Week 1: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/build-your-online-course/id1369191372?i=1000477109724
- Course Planning Week 2: Who Am I?: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/build-your-online-course/id1369191372?i=1000477109724
- Who are They? (Know Your Punters): https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/who-are-they-know-your-punters/id1369191372?i=1000478984529
Read the Weird Things Guitarists Do book by Neil Cowmeadow, which is available now on Amazon. Link - https://www.amazon.co.uk/Weird-Things-Guitarists-Do-Misconceptions/dp/1519026579/
Contact Neil via this website - com!

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

info@neilcowmeadow.com

Partnership Businesses

Sun, 15 Aug 2021 23:00:00 -0000

If you have a start-up business or have drifted into tutoring without much of a plan, then today's podcast is the one for you. Join Neil and discover the three business partnership structures which can help keep you safe and alert to pitfalls, allow you to stay on the right side of the law and most importantly, help you to keep the taxman happy.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

An ordinary partnership is a basic business structure. It is owned by two or more partners, you share the profits and have joint liability for the business. There is no need to register with Companies House but you must register with HMRC.
An advisory is to draw up a partnership agreement so that everyone knows the rules, who does what, gets paid what and when things should happen.
A limited partnership is not a separate legal entity but is a relationship between partners. There are two types of partners, limited and general. You must register the business with Companies House, have a business address, register the business for self-assessment with HMRC and act for the business if it’s wound up and dissolved.
A Limited Liability Partnership is the most demanding partnership structure. You can set up this type of business with two or more members, each partner pays tax on their share of profits.
In a limited liability partnership you will need to choose a name, have a registered address, register with Companies House and have an LLP agreement.
You should make an LLP agreement with any other members as part of setting up your LLP. This sets out how the LLP will be run, including how profits are shared among members, who need to agree on decisions, members responsibilities and how members can join or leave the LLP. A solicitor can help you prepare an agreement or you can write your own.

BEST MOMENTS

“here’s the skinny on partnership business”

“This helps avoid arguments later.”

“Quite a lot more than an ordinary partnership, but with some significant advantages, too.”

“Designated members have more responsibilities than ordinary members.”

VALUABLE RESOURCES

Listen to The Tutor Podcast on the Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-tutor-podcast/id1369191372)!
Build Your Online Course Week 1: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/build-your-online-course/id1369191372?i=1000477109724
Course Planning Week 2: Who Am I?: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/build-your-online-course/id1369191372?i=1000477109724
Who are They? (Know Your Punters): https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/who-are-they-know-your-punters/id1369191372?i=1000478984529
Read the Weird Things Guitarists Do book by Neil Cowmeadow, which is available now on Amazon. Link - https://www.amazon.co.uk/Weird-Things-Guitarists-Do-Misconceptions/dp/1519026579/
Contact Neil via this website - com!

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

info@neilcowmeadow.com

Sole Trader Business Structure - Do’s and Don’ts.

Sun, 08 Aug 2021 23:00:00 -0000

Discover today how you can ever so simply register as a sole trader and get your tutoring business up and running. Join Neil as he discusses the importance of registering and paying your taxes, what business expenses you can claim back and the importance of having a separate business bank account.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Becoming a Sole Trader is a simple process. There is no separation between you and your venture. You are fully liable, the business is an extension of you. Therefore, the business liabilities are yours and the profits are all yours to keep.
Open a separate personal bank account. You mustn’t mix business money and your own money. It will confuse you and be very hard to untangle and account for. Tell HMRC ASAP because you’ll need to register for self-assessment and declare your earnings.
Find out about Allowances for your business, these can include; Home use; Clothing; Mileage and use of your car; Equipment (laptops, stationery, guitars, software needed for work, etc) and Travel costs.
Remember, you only pay tax on profits, not turnover. Turnover is the money that comes in – profit is what’s left after your costs have been paid.
If you have a job, any sole trader losses can be offset against your PAYE income – new businesses often lose money for a few years as a business is built up and startup costs consume more than you have coming in. You could therefore claim a tax refund, because a sole trader loss can be offset, leaving the Nett income of day job minus Sole Trader losses as taxable income.

BEST MOMENTS

“Don’t piss off Johnny taxman – he’s a Goliath - armed to the teeth and backed up by a battalion of highly qualified and relentless people who will bury you.”

“You might be surprised how much you can claim against your earnings”

“If you’ve drifted into tutoring, don’t neglect to tell HMRC and make sure you claim every allowance you can.”

VALUABLE RESOURCES

Listen to The Tutor Podcast on the Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-tutor-podcast/id1369191372)!

Build Your Online Course Week 1: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/build-your-online-course/id1369191372?i=1000477109724
Course Planning Week 2: Who Am I?: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/build-your-online-course/id1369191372?i=1000477109724
Who are They? (Know Your Punters): https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/who-are-they-know-your-punters/id1369191372?i=1000478984529

Read the Weird Things Guitarists Do book by Neil Cowmeadow, which is available now on Amazon. Link - https://www.amazon.co.uk/Weird-Things-Guitarists-Do-Misconceptions/dp/1519026579/
Contact Neil via this website - com!

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

info@neilcowmeadow.com

The Comfort Trap

Sun, 01 Aug 2021 23:00:00 -0000

The comfort zone can be alluring and comfortable, however staying within your comfort zone comes with many limitations. Join Neil today as how you can flourish, so long as you escape the comfort trap. Discover how you can be an example of possibility to your students, how to escape your comfort zone and why you should not waste your energy on menial things.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

The comfort zone is popular and alluring. However, it is distracting and impoverishing. Staying in your comfort zone will do nothing for you, it doesn’t serve you and it removes all possibility of doing something new, interesting and surprising.
Don’t buy it, don’t waste your precious energy on the trivia of homes, cars and TV. These are the things that will pull you away from new challenges.
We’ve been fed this idea that sitting back and chilling out is The Dream and that we should aspire to be pampered and live an “easy life”. You need a reason to get out of bed in the morning, to square up to life and say “bring it on, I’ve got this!”. Can you Imagine a life of ease and comfort, a life without challenge or risk and , as a result , devoid of growth and fulfilment?
You’re there to teach and help your students and clients, and the very best way to do that is to be an example of possibility. And that example is individual and unique to each one of us, to every member of our Tribes. Within your fields, you are the leaders of our tribes.
If you find yourself in the comfort trap, do something about it. Get out of your comfort zone and go do something that makes you feel a little bit anxious. Sign up for a challenge, step away from the TV and do something, pick up your guitar, do anything that moves you in the right direction.

BEST MOMENTS

“it isn’t about the money: it’s about The Challenge and staying out of my comfort zone.”

“Gimme a challenge, tell me I can’t do something and I’ll prove you wrong.”

“If a lot of people do something, that doesn’t make it right.”

VALUABLE RESOURCES

Listen to The Tutor Podcast on the Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-tutor-podcast/id1369191372)!
- Build Your Online Course Week 1: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/build-your-online-course/id1369191372?i=1000477109724
- Course Planning Week 2: Who Am I?: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/build-your-online-course/id1369191372?i=1000477109724
- Who are They? (Know Your Punters): https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/who-are-they-know-your-punters/id1369191372?i=1000478984529
Read the Weird Things Guitarists Do book by Neil Cowmeadow, which is available now on Amazon. Link - https://www.amazon.co.uk/Weird-Things-Guitarists-Do-Misconceptions/dp/1519026579/
Contact Neil via this website - com!

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

info@neilcowmeadow.com

Designing Failure

Sun, 25 Jul 2021 23:00:00 -0000

Discover today how you can design your own failure, which can help you spot your route to success. Join Neil as he shares a fool proof way to stop yourself from feeling overworked and underpaid. By identifying areas in your life you are failing in such as time management, passive income streams and lack of students you can flip your life around and get back on the road to success.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

It is great to plan things ahead whether that be daily, monthly, yearly or five yearly. Planning gives you a mindset of possibility and helps provide milestones to identify progression.
If you are struggling to fit things into your days and are stuck trading your time for money, there are systems that can help you. Write down the system that produces lack of wealth, overwork and frustration in the center of a piece of paper. Things such as: not having long term goals; not having a strategic plan and making sure you get lost in the little things.
Identify your time management issues. Things such as not planning, letting your business run you and having no routine can affect the way you feel and frustrations and overwhelm can occur.
Identify how you make your money, do you have passive income streams? Write down how you are not making money from investment or creating products such as podcasts or books. Even things such as hoarding and not selling your old items on Ebay can help you identify potential areas for improvement.
Once everything is written down, you are able to see what is going on, or not and you are able to identify areas of your life which need addressing. Think on paper and design a system that guarantees failure, so you know how you can succeed.

BEST MOMENTS

“I love planning.”

“I love to disrupt the status quo.”

“A mind map of things not to do.”

“Drag your bullshit out into the open and slaughter it.”

VALUABLE RESOURCES

Listen to The Tutor Podcast on the Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-tutor-podcast/id1369191372)!

Build Your Online Course Week 1: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/build-your-online-course/id1369191372?i=1000477109724
Course Planning Week 2: Who Am I?: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/build-your-online-course/id1369191372?i=1000477109724
Who are They? (Know Your Punters): https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/who-are-they-know-your-punters/id1369191372?i=1000478984529

Read the Weird Things Guitarists Do book by Neil Cowmeadow, which is available now on Amazon. Link - https://www.amazon.co.uk/Weird-Things-Guitarists-Do-Misconceptions/dp/1519026579/
Contact Neil via this website - com!

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

info@neilcowmeadow.com

An Alternative To Windows

Sun, 18 Jul 2021 23:00:00 -0000

Discover the sleeker, faster, less demanding and free operating system ready to rival Windows. Join Neil as he discusses the advantages Linux, the open source operating system that outperforms Windows in more ways than one from its cost efficiency to its reliability is Linux beginning to take over?

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Linux is the open source OS that outperforms Windows, runs on low-spec machines, and never ruins your day with another infuriating auto-update.The most obvious advantage is that Linux is free whereas Windows is not. Windows license cost is different for both desktop and server versions. In the case of Linux OS either it can be desktop or server and still costs nothing.
Windows OS is one of the simplest desktop OS available today. Its graphical user-friendliness is exceptional – but Linux distros like Ubuntu, Elementary OS, Linux Mint, etc. are catching up, aiming to make the transition from Windows to Linux smooth and easy.
Linux systems consume fewer system resources (RAM, disk space, etc.) when compared to Windows. Many Hardware vendors have realized the popularity of Linux and have started making Linux compliant hardware/drivers. But the big thing is this: when running older hardware, Windows is slower than the leaner, slicker Linux. This is why you might want to Keep your old PC and run it on Linux
Linux is everywhere. From the smallest device to the largest supercomputer, Linux is everywhere. It can be a car, router, phone, medical devices, plane, TV, satellite, watch, or school tablet, Linux will be there. It’s used so much because it works better than anything else – chances are it’ll work for you and your soon-to-be-obsolete machines too.

BEST MOMENTS

“The most obvious advantage is that Linux is free whereas Windows is not”

“We’ve covered Windows updates before on the show – and the chaos they can inflict!”

“Geek alert, Linux allows a user to control every aspect of the operating system.”

VALUABLE RESOURCES

Listen to The Tutor Podcast on the Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-tutor-podcast/id1369191372)!
- Build Your Online Course Week 1: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/build-your-online-course/id1369191372?i=1000477109724
- Course Planning Week 2: Who Am I?: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/build-your-online-course/id1369191372?i=1000477109724
- Who are They? (Know Your Punters): https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/who-are-they-know-your-punters/id1369191372?i=1000478984529
Read the Weird Things Guitarists Do book by Neil Cowmeadow, which is available now on Amazon. Link - https://www.amazon.co.uk/Weird-Things-Guitarists-Do-Misconceptions/dp/1519026579/
Contact Neil via this website - com!

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

info@neilcowmeadow.com

Windows 11 Is Coming, Be Afraid.

Sun, 11 Jul 2021 23:00:00 -0000

A few short weeks ago Microsoft announced the release of its new Windows version and at first, everything seemed wonderful! Join Neil today as he discusses the pros and cons of the new Windows 11 platform and whether it's a benefit to you or not. Neil discusses how Windows 11 claims it will enhance your productivity, the new features of the platform such as being able to resume what you were doing after an interruption and why your computer may not like the new update.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

When Microsoft announced the advent of its new version of Windows on June 24, 2021, it seemed fairly innocuous. The interface will be beautiful, the Microsoft managers doing the presentation said stridently. Corners would be gently rounded, some menus would be translucent and there would be changes, such as moving the Windows start button to the center bottom of the screen. They also said that it would be more secure.
According to the announcement, Windows 11 will enhance user productivity with features such as being able to resume what you were doing following an interruption, even if that interruption means leaving and shutting down your computer. It will allow sessions to pick up on a different computer, or if you have a computer that has a removable tablet screen, Windows will adjust and let you carry on.
Your existing computers may not work with it. Financial cost and environmental impact of all those discarded computers. It must be capable of supporting UEFI (Unified Extensible Firmware Interface) which has replaced the BIOS on newer computers, and must be capable of supporting Secure Boot.
Some computer manufacturers may be able to make their computers compatible through updates. And even if not, Windows 10 will still be supported until 2025, which is plenty of time to decide whether you’re going to upgrade your computer or maybe switch to a Macintosh, go over to Linux or watch for new developments.

BEST MOMENTS

“It's still a clean, fairly simple interface.”

“Unfortunately, the bright side of Windows 11 comes at a cost.”

“Chuffed to have your computer made obsolete by an upgrade that delivers more and more of what you don’t really want?”

View The Announcement Here: Windows 11 Announcement

View The Video Presentation Here: Windows 11 Video Presentation

VALUABLE RESOURCES

Listen to The Tutor Podcast on the Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-tutor-podcast/id1369191372)!

Build Your Online Course Week 1: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/build-your-online-course/id1369191372?i=1000477109724
Course Planning Week 2: Who Am I?: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/build-your-online-course/id1369191372?i=1000477109724
Who are They? (Know Your Punters): https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/who-are-they-know-your-punters/id1369191372?i=1000478984529

Read the Weird Things Guitarists Do book by Neil Cowmeadow, which is available now on Amazon. Link - https://www.amazon.co.uk/Weird-Things-Guitarists-Do-Misconceptions/dp/1519026579/

Contact Neil via this website - com!

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

info@neilcowmeadow.com

Play Pretend

Sun, 04 Jul 2021 23:00:00 -0000

Discover today a simple yet effective tutoring tool that is really important in ensuring your students are comfortable, relaxed and successful in their field, whatever it is you teach, this technique will help you. Neil discusses how ‘playing pretend’ can encourage your students to relax, how eliminating their fears of failure can help with their confidence and why imagination can become reality.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

A simple yet effective way of helping to teach your students is by playing ‘play pretend’. It gets the need to be right out of the way, along with their ego and allows students to go inside themselves to find the answer.
If a student does not know what they are doing, simply ask them to pretend that they are able to. It does not matter how good or bad they are since they are only pretending. They always pretend to be better than they consciously play, the fear of failure or embarrassment is gone and they can access their resources much better.
This strategy works with students of all ages who have been convinced they have “no talent”, no sense of rhythm, no musical ability. These are all the other limiting beliefs they were handed down from well-meaning people who didn’t realise the damage inflicted by a flippant remark or judgemental comment.
As a tutor of anything, be it math, music, science, languages etc, this is one teaching tool that is really important to the success of your students. If a student can’t get to what they need via conscious pathway, they can usually imagine a better way.

BEST MOMENTS

“the fear of failure or embarrassment is gone and they can access their resources much better.”

“perhaps pretend that their fingers were made of mist or smoke”

“This works great for them.”

“This is one teaching tool you really don’t want to leave home without.”

VALUABLE RESOURCES

Listen to The Tutor Podcast on the Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-tutor-podcast/id1369191372)!
- Build Your Online Course Week 1: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/build-your-online-course/id1369191372?i=1000477109724
- Course Planning Week 2: Who Am I?: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/build-your-online-course/id1369191372?i=1000477109724
- Who are They? (Know Your Punters): https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/who-are-they-know-your-punters/id1369191372?i=1000478984529
Read the Weird Things Guitarists Do book by Neil Cowmeadow, which is available now on Amazon. Link - https://www.amazon.co.uk/Weird-Things-Guitarists-Do-Misconceptions/dp/1519026579/
Contact Neil via this website - com!

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

info@neilcowmeadow.com

Who Is Your Ideal Student?

Sun, 27 Jun 2021 23:00:00 -0000

Knowing and understanding your ideal student is vital to your business’ success, find out today how you can identify your ideal client and how you can strategically market your business to be the leading service provider for that demographic. Neil discusses the benefits of knowing your client, why testing is important and what qualities to look for to discover them.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

There are many reasons why choosing your ideal customer is important. By choosing who your ideal student is you will get more pleasure and purpose from your work. You can offer a better service as well as optimal pricing.
It’s vitally important that you know what your ideal client looks like, what they do, and what they want, so think about their age, gender, profession and income. It is also important to consider their desired outcome and where they hang out in their free time.
Once you know your market, you can market yourself to your ideal client/student, and in turn market for that demographic and become the premium service provider.
Knowing your dream customer is vital to your business’ success. It will benefit you greatly to give this some time and thought, because your ideal customers make life easy and a lot more fun.

BEST MOMENTS

“Who are your tribe?”

“confirm that your dream client really is your dream client after all.”

“Because I’m not just working with anyone with a pulse and the necessary money”

VALUABLE RESOURCES

Listen to The Tutor Podcast on the Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-tutor-podcast/id1369191372)!
- Build Your Online Course Week 1: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/build-your-online-course/id1369191372?i=1000477109724
- Course Planning Week 2: Who Am I?: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/build-your-online-course/id1369191372?i=1000477109724
- Who are They? (Know Your Punters): https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/who-are-they-know-your-punters/id1369191372?i=1000478984529
Read the Weird Things Guitarists Do book by Neil Cowmeadow, which is available now on Amazon. Link - https://www.amazon.co.uk/Weird-Things-Guitarists-Do-Misconceptions/dp/1519026579/
Contact Neil via this website - com!

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

info@neilcowmeadow.com

Truer than True, Realer than Real

Sun, 20 Jun 2021 23:00:00 -0000

Have you ever looked back on your tutoring or teaching journey and thought about what it has taught you rather than what you have taught others? Join Neil in today’s episode as he does exactly that. Neil talks through how he stumbled into the world of tutoring, how teaching often has a habit of producing unexpected consequences and how it can allow you to become more self-aware.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Teaching has a habit of producing unexpected consequences, usually out of leftfield, emerging from our blindpsots where they’ve been hiding for ages, waiting for the moment to be right to show themselves.
Neil started teaching in 1999 after constant requests from customers in the music shop he partly owned. It was uncomfortable but it got easier as Neil became better at teaching. He found it to be a lot more fun than his finance job as he was able to help people grow and become who they wanted to be.
When we teach, we reach deep into our own psyche, better to understand our students, and in doing so we become more self-aware, realising that we are all more alike than we are different.
Neil thinks of teaching as reaching back to the members of his tribe who are on the same trail he has walked. He believes that teaching work is to reveal what is most needed by your students, and that experience in turn reveals us to yourselves.

BEST MOMENTS

“I shared my love affair with the guitar”

“I became more of who I wanted to be”

“I’m more truly myself when I’m teaching, I believe”

VALUABLE RESOURCES

Listen to The Tutor Podcast on the Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-tutor-podcast/id1369191372)!
- Build Your Online Course Week 1: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/build-your-online-course/id1369191372?i=1000477109724
- Course Planning Week 2: Who Am I?: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/build-your-online-course/id1369191372?i=1000477109724
- Who are They? (Know Your Punters): https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/who-are-they-know-your-punters/id1369191372?i=1000478984529
Read the Weird Things Guitarists Do book by Neil Cowmeadow, which is available now on Amazon. Link - https://www.amazon.co.uk/Weird-Things-Guitarists-Do-Misconceptions/dp/1519026579/
Contact Neil via this website - com!

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

info@neilcowmeadow.com

Never Be Perfect

Sun, 13 Jun 2021 23:00:00 -0000

Have you waited to be perfect, and watched someone with less ability and worse skills step in and take the prize that was yours? Join Neil today to discover why you should never aim to be perfect, only gloriously imperfect. Neil discusses why perfection is a toxic myth, why waiting for perfection may mean you miss out on achieving your dreams and why imperfection acts as a springboard to better.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

A toxic myth – affecting you as tutors and teachers, in your lives as entrepreneurs and in the ordinary world is to aim for perfection. Perfection is the highest possible state of a thing, there is no growth to be done as it’s already at its ultimate state.
Too many people wait for the perfect moment and It’ll never happen. As people wait they get older and sooner or later will die – perhaps wishing they hadn’t waited so long to get started or never got started at all.
Perfection is a great lie, told to keep us in line by making us fear that it is bad to not strive for perfection. The importance placed on being perfect is toxic. Propagated by people who mean to protect us from the knocks and bumps of trying. They mean well, but if we wait to be perfect we cannot grow, evolve, try, or succeed.
Imperfect is a way of life and acts as a springboard to better. Nobody is perfect. Nobody ever. Perfect must die and instead you should aim to be gloriously imperfect.

BEST MOMENTS

“There’ll never be a perfect time or right time”

“Jump and grow your wings on the way down”

“I advocate Glorious Imperfection!”

VALUABLE RESOURCES

Listen to The Tutor Podcast on the Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-tutor-podcast/id1369191372)!
- Build Your Online Course Week 1: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/build-your-online-course/id1369191372?i=1000477109724
- Course Planning Week 2: Who Am I?: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/build-your-online-course/id1369191372?i=1000477109724
- Who are They? (Know Your Punters): https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/who-are-they-know-your-punters/id1369191372?i=1000478984529
Read the Weird Things Guitarists Do book by Neil Cowmeadow, which is available now on Amazon. Link - https://www.amazon.co.uk/Weird-Things-Guitarists-Do-Misconceptions/dp/1519026579/
Contact Neil via this website - com!

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

info@neilcowmeadow.com

Listen For The Helicopters.

Sun, 06 Jun 2021 23:00:00 -0000

Have you ever suffered from imposter syndrome, and thought that someday, someone is going to think that you do not know what you are doing? Join Neil today as he discusses how feelings of self-doubt are normal and how to overcome them. Discover why experiencing imposter syndrome is usually because you cannot quite believe the life you are living is yours, how reprogramming yourself can help overcome self sabotage and why you should never lower your expectations or standards.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

No matter how long you have been tutoring or mentoring for, from time to time you will have experienced moments of self-doubt and thought that perhaps people think you do not know what you are doing. There is nobody who is making their own way in the world that has not experienced this before.

The cause of this feeling of discomfort is that the situation that you have found yourself in, is way better than you were prepared for. It is as though your programming really doesn’t expect you to be having the life you have.

There are two options to overcome your self-sabotage. You can return back to the ‘normal’ life that society has laid out for you and return to an office job. Or, you can reprogramme yourself based on the reality that you can see, measure and feel in order to bring that programming up to date to a higher level, that you are now living in.

Experiencing imposter syndrome is really good feedback. It is telling you that you are doing great work and you are doing it better than you expected to do it. Pause and consciously reassess your situation and then raise your standards to match that reality. Never lower your standards or your expectations.

BEST MOMENTS

“22 years of unlocking the secrets of guitar for people, and I am still getting it.”

“Ask yourself, what is the reality?”

“You are achieving a higher level of mastery than you thought you should.”

VALUABLE RESOURCES

Listen to The Tutor Podcast on the Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-tutor-podcast/id1369191372)!

Build Your Online Course Week 1: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/build-your-online-course/id1369191372?i=1000477109724
Course Planning Week 2: Who Am I?: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/build-your-online-course/id1369191372?i=1000477109724
Who are They? (Know Your Punters): https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/who-are-they-know-your-punters/id1369191372?i=1000478984529

Read the Weird Things Guitarists Do book by Neil Cowmeadow, which is available now on Amazon. Link - https://www.amazon.co.uk/Weird-Things-Guitarists-Do-Misconceptions/dp/1519026579/
Contact Neil via this website - com!

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

info@neilcowmeadow.com

Journaling and Gratitude

Sun, 30 May 2021 23:00:00 -0000

Do you keep a daily journal? A journal can help to keep you focused throughout the day, give you a structured routine in your life and help you to achieve your business and personal goals. Listen in to another episode of The Tutor Podcast to discover Neils daily routine, his own daily lessons and why keeping a journal can give you a sense of purpose.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Keeping a journal gives you a sense of purpose throughout the day and by writing things down you’re activating your brain and it’s reprocessing the key information you write down.

Neils daily journal lessons: 1. Have fun and help people 2. Be a good man and a great dad 3. Manage and grow your empire 4. To like and master myself

Your daily journal should take just five minutes to complete in the morning and then those daily lessons will stick with you in the back of your mind throughout the day, reminding you of your goals and framing your day.

At the end of the day, you should use your journal to digest your day and write down the highlights. What you’ve learnt, what has made you happy and what choices you have made.
Over time you can review your journal to see how you’ve grown and what decisions you’ve made, good or bad.

BEST MOMENTS

“I’ve kept a daily journal for the past 8 years”
“If it’s not written down then it doesn’t exist”
“By keeping a journal you will learn to like yourself more and overcome imposter syndrome”
“Tutors are in an influential and prevalidated position”

VALUABLE RESOURCES

Listen to The Tutor Podcast on the Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-tutor-podcast/id1369191372)!
- Build Your Online Course Week 1: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/build-your-online-course/id1369191372?i=1000477109724
- Course Planning Week 2: Who Am I?: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/build-your-online-course/id1369191372?i=1000477109724
- Who are They? (Know Your Punters): https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/who-are-they-know-your-punters/id1369191372?i=1000478984529
Read the Weird Things Guitarists Do book by Neil Cowmeadow, which is available now on Amazon. Link - https://www.amazon.co.uk/Weird-Things-Guitarists-Do-Misconceptions/dp/1519026579/
Contact Neil via this website - com!

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

info@neilcowmeadow.com

Money Mindset

Sun, 23 May 2021 23:00:00 -0000

Have you been led to believe that money is hard to come by? Well join Neil today as he debunks that myth and shares with you his top tips for getting into the money mindset, and understanding money better. Discover today how money is just an illusion that makes things easier, why spending less than you earn is the simplest way to acquire wealth and why money should be treated with respect.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Money doesn’t really exist. Money is an illusion, it is a social convention that makes certain things easier. Money is a store of value that allows us to transact business and exchange values with a lot less friction. If you think that money is illusive, scarce or hard to come by, stick with it because there is plenty of it out there. It is a resource where, if you have it you can use it and if you haven't got it, you might just go in pursuit of it.

Money is neither good nor bad, it is neutral and will allow you to amplify who you really are. You have probably been told that money is the root of all evil, and that it doesn't grow on trees, this is nonsense. If you are finding money hard to come by, it could just be that you are not asking for enough or that you are not providing enough value.

It is very simple to acquire wealth if you follow the system of spending less than you earn. When you are working for yourself it is very easy to get sucked into leaving all the money in the business, but it is important that you pay yourself first. Before you pay anyone else, take your salary out of the business every month.

Respect money, don’t splash the cash too much if you have it. Give your money a safe home and as you develop the habit of holding onto money and looking after it, more money will come to you. When you know that money is just a simple game, it loses a lot of its fear.

Don’t take money advice from poor people. Take your money advice from people with way more money than you do and ask them how they did it. They will often tell you as they like to reach back and help other people along. They may even see something of themselves in you.

BEST MOMENTS

“If you want to be successful with money, be real about it.”

“Always pay yourself first.”

“If you know the rules of the game you have a chance of success within the game.”

“Get your money advice from successful, wealthy people and not from paupers.”

VALUABLE RESOURCES

Listen to The Tutor Podcast on the Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-tutor-podcast/id1369191372)!
- Build Your Online Course Week 1: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/build-your-online-course/id1369191372?i=1000477109724
- Course Planning Week 2: Who Am I?: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/build-your-online-course/id1369191372?i=1000477109724
- Who are They? (Know Your Punters): https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/who-are-they-know-your-punters/id1369191372?i=1000478984529
Read the Weird Things Guitarists Do book by Neil Cowmeadow, which is available now on Amazon. Link - https://www.amazon.co.uk/Weird-Things-Guitarists-Do-Misconceptions/dp/1519026579/
Contact Neil via this website - com!

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

info@neilcowmeadow.com

Habits and Routines

Sun, 16 May 2021 23:00:00 -0000

Does the saying ‘old habits die hard’ resonate with you? Are you stuck in a rut and wondering how you can turn your bad habits into good ones? Join Neil as he discusses the importance of creating good habits, healthy habits that you absolutely should be incorporating into your day and how to implement them.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

The rules of the game have changed yet again, and they will change again over time. You need to realise that creating habits will get things done pretty much automatically. Habits are fantastic shortcuts for your brain and they minimise the amount of effort necessary to perform an operation. They are easy to live with once you have built them, but they are very hard to break.

The reason it is so difficult to build habits, is because you already have habits that perhaps you are not aware of. Your old habits will persist until they are overwritten with new, updated habits. Habits are just like software for your brain, they are running in the background, out of sight.

Have yourself a target time to go to bed at night. That may be 10pm or 3am, it doesn’t matter so long as it works for you. The important thing is consistency, your daily pattern is the framework for everything else you do. Do what works well for you.

Movement and exercise is vital. Schedule proper movement sessions throughout your day and ensure this becomes a regular habit. If this isn't in your habit list then you are not recognising who you are. Your body is meant to move and we get sick if we don’t move. Do something, it doesn’t need to be the gym, you can bike, run or walk.

Create good business habits. Create good learning schemes, lesson plans and evaluate if they are working for you. You will already have existing habits when you interact with your students and figure out if these are still working for you. Monitor your habits often because it is only a habit, it is not who you are.

Anything you can do to create resistance and remove barriers between you and bad habits is a good thing. Keep on triggering so that the new habits you are trying to create become automatic for you. It doesn't matter how simple or complex your habits are, they will have a massive effect on you.

BEST MOMENTS

“If you’re in the game..you better know the bloody rules.”

“We should be doing this with our necktop computers, our brains.”

“Ignore everyone else's opinion and follow your own data.”

“Keep an eye on that stuff because that really matters.”

VALUABLE RESOURCES

Listen to The Tutor Podcast on the Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-tutor-podcast/id1369191372)!
- Build Your Online Course Week 1: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/build-your-online-course/id1369191372?i=1000477109724
- Course Planning Week 2: Who Am I?: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/build-your-online-course/id1369191372?i=1000477109724
- Who are They? (Know Your Punters): https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/who-are-they-know-your-punters/id1369191372?i=1000478984529
Read the Weird Things Guitarists Do book by Neil Cowmeadow, which is available now on Amazon. Link - https://www.amazon.co.uk/Weird-Things-Guitarists-Do-Misconceptions/dp/1519026579/
Contact Neil via this website - com!

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

info@neilcowmeadow.com

Starting Out In Business.

Sun, 09 May 2021 23:00:00 -0000

If you’ve been thinking about starting a business in an area you love but have never quite managed it, then don’t miss today’s episode as Neil tells you why now is the perfect time to start and shares his recipe for success. Discover the three different types of companies you can start in the UK, how to turn ‘pro’, and how to find your perfect clients.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Right now is the best time to start out in business. It is a great opportunity to reach new customers such as home workers and home schoolers. Lockdown is finally easing meaning you are able to take control, claim your freedom and build security.

When starting up your new business you will need to decide what type of business you want to start. You will also need to decide how much you want to earn, where you want to work and how you will structure your working life.

There are three forms of business you might consider. These are: Sole trader, Partnership or LTD company. If you choose to become a sole trader you will need to register as self employed on the HMRC website. Whilst it is not a legal requirement, it is recommended to get public liability insurance to protect yourself.

To take your businesses into the ‘professional’ level you will need to think and act like a pro. Get visible, purchase signs, flyers, logos and cards. Invest in creating a website so that all your potential clients can find out more about you and your services. Let your ideal client know that you exist.

Finding your perfect clients or students does not have to be expensive, in fact it can be free. Think about who your ideal client is and figure out where to find them and create a plan to capture their attention. Think about where they would look for you and always ensure your website is updated.

A year from now you could be in two different places, right where you are now, wishing you’d been brave or a year into your teaching adventure, maybe still a little fearful, but in motion and enjoying yourself. If you’re waiting for permission – you have it. Now, to follow your dream, the time is now.

BEST MOMENTS

“It will grow you – i promise!”

“what did I do before that?” until you are back to the present day and have something you can take action on , now.”

“Even poorly begun is better than a failure to launch.”

VALUABLE RESOURCES

Listen to The Tutor Podcast on the Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-tutor-podcast/id1369191372)!

Build Your Online Course Week 1: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/build-your-online-course/id1369191372?i=1000477109724
Course Planning Week 2: Who Am I?: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/build-your-online-course/id1369191372?i=1000477109724
Who are They? (Know Your Punters): https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/who-are-they-know-your-punters/id1369191372?i=1000478984529

Read the Weird Things Guitarists Do book by Neil Cowmeadow, which is available now on Amazon. Link - https://www.amazon.co.uk/Weird-Things-Guitarists-Do-Misconceptions/dp/1519026579/
Contact Neil via this website - com!

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

info@neilcowmeadow.com

Long-Range Planning

Sun, 02 May 2021 23:00:00 -0000

"A vision without motion is only a dream” and today, Neil is here to help you take action to ensure that you can make your dreams come true and avoid letting life pass you by. Neil discusses why it is important to think deeply about what you want out of life in the next 10-15 years, why the key to action and movement is to start at the end goal and work backwards and why the comfort zone is where your dreams will diminish.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Most people overestimate what they can do in a year, and underestimate what they can achieve in 10 years. Many people don’t give that kind of timeframe much thought. People imagine themselves to always have more time, as though they are immortal.
Think deeply about what you want to be doing in 10 to 15 years time? Think about how you want things to be with your health, relationships, career and what your legacy will be.
Imagine yourself in the future and everything is as you wish it to be, write it down and include lots of details such as the colour of the car you drive. Write it all down and read your vision regularly, reinforcing the vision.
But plans are nothing without actions. The key to action and movement in pursuit of that long-range vision: begin at the end-point and ask yourself “what did i do before that?” Work it all backwards from the future until you arrive back here, today, with an action you can take that will move you.

Think bigger than you’re comfortable with right now. Remember that things always change and inflation makes your million-pound goal less meaningful in the future, because the million is worth less. Re-visit the vision and continuously update it in response to changes in the wider world.

Best Moments

“A vision without motion is only a dream.”

“Think bigger than you’re comfortable with right now”

“The comfort zone is where dreams go to die.”

VALUABLE RESOURCES

Listen to The Tutor Podcast on the Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-tutor-podcast/id1369191372)!
- Build Your Online Course Week 1: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/build-your-online-course/id1369191372?i=1000477109724
- Course Planning Week 2: Who Am I?: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/build-your-online-course/id1369191372?i=1000477109724
- Who are They? (Know Your Punters): https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/who-are-they-know-your-punters/id1369191372?i=1000478984529
Read the Weird Things Guitarists Do book by Neil Cowmeadow, which is available now on Amazon. Link - https://www.amazon.co.uk/Weird-Things-Guitarists-Do-Misconceptions/dp/1519026579/
Contact Neil via this website - com!

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

info@neilcowmeadow.com

Essential Mind-games

Sun, 25 Apr 2021 23:00:00 -0000

Everything in life is a mind-game and that includes the simple act of guitar teaching. Join Neil as he discusses the illusion that guitar playing is incredibly difficult and how you can manage your students’ expectations by making things simple. Learn how believing things will be difficult will get in the way of your students, how to demonstrate simplicity to your student and why it is important to create simple teaching techniques to demonstrate to your students.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Everything is a mind-game, absolutely everything. Where the mind goes, the body follows. You can playfully engage how your students think. If you manage that you will become a better tutor.

The mental side of guitar is the intellectual aspect. The belief that something is mentally difficult will get in the way of your student, whatever you’re teaching. The pretentiousness of how music is conventionally taught is nonsense.

Demonstrate the simplicity of things to your students and this then starts to erode the expectation of something clever being done.

Always take your students’ measure and calibration point and calibrate it. Start where they are, tell them “Clapton does this and it is really cool, but it is actually just this..” and demonstrate what is being done to allow them to calibrate based on what they see.

Remind them that they will get what they look for. If they expect difficulty they are going to find it difficult to do things and then they will quit because they have met their expectations. If they expect something to be comparatively straightforward and effortless then that is what they are going to ultimately find.

Think about what your students expect to be, be there, recognise it and then gradually take control and then steer it in a direction that is going to be more productive than any idea of ongoing difficulty. If you manage the expectations then the student can actually get on with the process of learning using the simple and effective techniques you have developed.

BEST MOMENTS

“Manage that and you will become a better tutor as a consequence.”

“It is moronic and it really won’t help your guitar students.”

“It is mostly claptrap.”

“Ask them how they can make it even easier, just for the fun of it. “

VALUABLE RESOURCES

Listen to The Tutor Podcast on the Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-tutor-podcast/id1369191372)!
- Build Your Online Course Week 1: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/build-your-online-course/id1369191372?i=1000477109724
- Course Planning Week 2: Who Am I?: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/build-your-online-course/id1369191372?i=1000477109724
- Who are They? (Know Your Punters): https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/who-are-they-know-your-punters/id1369191372?i=1000478984529
Read the Weird Things Guitarists Do book by Neil Cowmeadow, which is available now on Amazon. Link - https://www.amazon.co.uk/Weird-Things-Guitarists-Do-Misconceptions/dp/1519026579/
Contact Neil via this website - com!

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

info@neilcowmeadow.com

Effective Enquiry Calls

Sun, 18 Apr 2021 23:00:00 -0000

With lockdown easing many people are looking to get back into face to face tutoring and you need to make sure you’re prepared to welcome both old and new faces. Join Neil as he discusses how you can be prepared for enquiry calls and emails, he discusses the importance of making a good first impression, why having a rough draft is better than having no draft at all and the important questions you need to ask all your potential customers.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Now, with lockdown 2.0 being eased there are lots of people aiming to get out of the house and get into your teaching room. In addition there will be students who’ll want in-room lessons but who opted-out of online lessons, clambering to book a slot.

Right now is a great opportunity to capture and serve new and returning customers. In time all Covid restrictions will be axed and you can go about your lawful business as normal. Make sure all your email templates and phone scripts are up to date because the first call makes a lasting impression on students.

Spend a little time and write down a rough draft of what to say when the phone rings or your email pings. From your rough draft, refine your thoughts and language, craft the questions you’re going to ask the prospective customer.

Important questions to ask are what the customer wants, what got them here, what they dream about playing or doing and any prior experience. Finish your draft by asking them the Miracle Question “if you woke up tomorrow and you were the very best guitar player you could dream of being what would that feel like, how would it sound, and what would you be doing?”.

It’s important to print your script out and have it to hand in the office or teaching room where you can see it. If the prospect seems like someone you’d like to have as a student/customer, and they have told you when is good for them, offer them a choice of two times within their windows.

With a good script or even a fair one the enquiry call runs on rails, most of the time and it happens with less effort than just taking a call and saying any old thing that occurs to you.

BEST MOMENTS

“the 6 P’s Proper Preparation Prevents Piss-Poor Performance”

“bearing in mind they may have spent the last year watching YouTube clips and getting completely confused, focusing on random steps, learning bits and pieces without any structure.”

“The script does the work for you – presenting you as an organised, confident, experienced expert who won’t let them down.”

VALUABLE RESOURCES

Listen to The Tutor Podcast on the Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-tutor-podcast/id1369191372)!
- Build Your Online Course Week 1: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/build-your-online-course/id1369191372?i=1000477109724
- Course Planning Week 2: Who Am I?: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/build-your-online-course/id1369191372?i=1000477109724
- Who are They? (Know Your Punters): https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/who-are-they-know-your-punters/id1369191372?i=1000478984529
Read the Weird Things Guitarists Do book by Neil Cowmeadow, which is available now on Amazon. Link - https://www.amazon.co.uk/Weird-Things-Guitarists-Do-Misconceptions/dp/1519026579/
Contact Neil via this website - com!

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

info@neilcowmeadow.com

ASSUME NOTHING

Sun, 11 Apr 2021 23:00:00 -0000

All musicians have got to start out somewhere right? Many of them started out teaching themselves and skipped learning the basics. Join Neil as he discusses how you can never assume a player knows the basics, no matter how long they’ve been playing, the importance of understanding the foundations of music and how to change a students life long bad habits.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

There’s an old saying that goes “when you assume you make an ass of you and me”. There are many good guitar players out there and it is often surprising just how good they are considering how they learned. Many of them learned to copy the songs the way they sounded in the records rather than the notes and they often emulated their rock star heroes.

Many guitar players understand little, make life hard for themselves, and have no idea what to do when the moment arrives to kick back and let go with a made-up-on-the-spot solo. Guitarists are missing out on so much by not having the basics set up right. Without foundational understanding of the instrument they wrestle with the neck of the guitar rather than letting their fingers dance on it.

Foundations matter. No matter what you teach, you had better make sure that the basics are there, because if they’re not, you are clutching at straws and hoping that something sticks and the lights, somehow, go on.

As tutors you should assume nothing is well-understood. Regardless of a student’s experience or apparent ability you should always be checking that the basics are there and that the foundations are in place to be built on.

BEST MOMENTS

“So the best of luck to us all as we try to begin all over again.”

“ they cannot play with a capital P.”

“My own assumptions were a big problem in the early days of my teaching life..”

VALUABLE RESOURCES

Listen to The Tutor Podcast on the Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-tutor-podcast/id1369191372)!
- Build Your Online Course Week 1: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/build-your-online-course/id1369191372?i=1000477109724
- Course Planning Week 2: Who Am I?: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/build-your-online-course/id1369191372?i=1000477109724
- Who are They? (Know Your Punters): https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/who-are-they-know-your-punters/id1369191372?i=1000478984529
Read the Weird Things Guitarists Do book by Neil Cowmeadow, which is available now on Amazon. Link - https://www.amazon.co.uk/Weird-Things-Guitarists-Do-Misconceptions/dp/1519026579/
Contact Neil via this website - com!

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

info@neilcowmeadow.com

Entrepreneurial Trials and Tribulations

Sun, 04 Apr 2021 23:00:00 -0000

Being an entrepreneur is different to what most people do for work and it allows you to break from the norm and do what you love every single day, sometimes it may not even feel like work. Join Neil as he discusses the trials and tribulations faced by many entrepreneurs when it comes to the work/life balance and what it really means. Neil discusses the responsibilities of a business owner, the strains it can take on relationships and how to accept the change and transcend social expectations.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Being an entrepreneur is fundamentally different to what most people do and how most people are. Entrepreneurs are a breed apart and there will be problems when their worldview and your entrepreneurial worldview collide.
Being an entrepreneur means that because it’s your business and you are responsible for your own success or failure, it’s inevitable that at some time you will have to put your commitment to your students and your business ahead of social activity. You can’t be everywhere and do everything, so there will be choices to be made and some of the people around you are not going to like your choices.
Many people around you won’t understand that you enjoy your job, because it’s so far away from how life is for them. For them, work is an unpleasant inconvenience that interferes with their social life, whilst for you, it’s a fascinating mission, an intrinsically fun thing to do.
In some circumstances, this can cost you a relationship but you have to do it because your business and your living shouldn’t take second place to just about anything else. Be discerning and selective about what you say “yes” to; make “no” your default answer to non-priority social happenings and anything which pulls you away from your vision, your business and your values.
Accept the change and transcend social expectations. Remember that ‘Eagles fly alone’. It is important to have your own life and honour your own values.

BEST MOMENTS

“what’s the point of doing less of what you love in order to do something you like less?”

“ Work hard in your business and love every minute of it”

“This is the toughest part of being in business for yourself, but it gets easier over time.”

“When this happens, your identity has shifted – you’re not the same person you used to be.”

VALUABLE RESOURCES

Listen to The Tutor Podcast on the Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-tutor-podcast/id1369191372)!
- Build Your Online Course Week 1: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/build-your-online-course/id1369191372?i=1000477109724
- Course Planning Week 2: Who Am I?: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/build-your-online-course/id1369191372?i=1000477109724
- Who are They? (Know Your Punters): https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/who-are-they-know-your-punters/id1369191372?i=1000478984529
Read the Weird Things Guitarists Do book by Neil Cowmeadow, which is available now on Amazon. Link - https://www.amazon.co.uk/Weird-Things-Guitarists-Do-Misconceptions/dp/1519026579/
Contact Neil via this website - com!

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

info@neilcowmeadow.com

Coming Out of Lockdown

Sun, 28 Mar 2021 23:00:00 -0000

With the Lockdown restrictions promised to soon be easing, it is very important for you and your tutoring business are fully prepared to get back up and running in line with the law. Join Neil today as he details how you can practice face to face whilst maintaining ‘Covid safe’, how to adapt your pre-existing teaching style and how much you and your students are going to love getting back to doing what you both enjoy.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Many students are eager to get back into the classroom to learn and your tutoring business is required to teach in a covid safe environment. You are still going to need to wear facemasks and figure out how to interpret cues from different facial expressions. You are also going to have to listen more closely to language and your students’ body posture.

You will also have to adhere to social distancing measures and stay 2 meters away from your students where possible operating a no-touch policy. As a tutor, it is common to have to adjust your player’s finger positions (if teaching guitar) and ensure everything is in the right place for them. This is something you are no longer allowed to do. Ensure there are copious amounts of hand sanitiser available for you and your students.

Wherever possible you can still continue to teach on Zoom until the time comes where there is no friction in ‘face to face’ teaching. However, most students will agree that whilst Zoom lessons are good, they are nowhere near as good as the real thing. Zoom lessons are not as much fun.

For now, the story goes that we will be getting some of our freedom back in April. When we get it you should be ready.

BEST MOMENTS

“We should be planning our escape.”

“I think it should be called ‘anti-social distancing.”

“My job is to cover my arse as best as I can.”

VALUABLE RESOURCES

Listen to The Tutor Podcast on the Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-tutor-podcast/id1369191372)!
- Build Your Online Course Week 1: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/build-your-online-course/id1369191372?i=1000477109724
- Course Planning Week 2: Who Am I?: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/build-your-online-course/id1369191372?i=1000477109724
- Who are They? (Know Your Punters): https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/who-are-they-know-your-punters/id1369191372?i=1000478984529
Read the Weird Things Guitarists Do book by Neil Cowmeadow, which is available now on Amazon. Link - https://www.amazon.co.uk/Weird-Things-Guitarists-Do-Misconceptions/dp/1519026579/
Contact Neil via this website - com!

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

info@neilcowmeadow.com

Choice of Business Structure

Mon, 22 Mar 2021 00:00:00 -0000

Are you looking to start, scale and grow your tutoring business and looking which is the best way to do it? Join Neil today as he discusses the three business structures your tutoring business could fall under, and the benefits and risks they pose to you. Neil talks through sole trader businesses, limited liability partnerships and limited company business structures, the importance of paying your taxes, and the tax benefits a limited company can offer.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

There are three big decisions you can make when deciding on a structure for your company. The easiest one for many people is operating your business as a sole trader, in essence, you register as self-employed with HMRC and you get on with it. Three is no real separation between yourself and the business aspect of what you do.

You must notify HMRC on the first day you begin trading, especially if you are in a day job. Pay your taxes and you can sleep at night. You won’t worry about getting found out for tax evasion. You are not likely to be subject to an HMRC audit which is extremely hard. Your tax liability as a sole trader is blended with your day job and you will only pay tax on the total combined incomes.

Secondly, you could have a limited liability partnership. This is an agreement to operate a business between one or more persons. The limited liability partnership is set up to make a profit. It is highly favoured by people in professions such as accountancy and it is favoured for a reason. It runs different tax regulations than limited companies for instance there is no corporation tax and is owned by the partners themselves.

A limited company is one of the most popular business structures in the UK. It is a separate legal entity from you. The people who own these companies are stand alones, this gives the owner some separation from the company itself and protects your assets. It is pretty simple to set one of these up via the company's house.

If there are multiple owners of a limited company you will need to figure out who owns what. Whilst 50:50 looks great on paper, 49:51 sounds better as long as you have the bulk of the shares as then you will get to call the shots.

There are big tax advantages to having your own company. If you die with a net worth with over £325,000 your children of beneficiaries are going to be paying 40% tax on that. If you put it all in a company structure then there is no inheritance tax until the shares are sold. The heirs only pay capital gains tax if they pay the shares.

BEST MOMENTS

“As the owner of the business, you have unlimited responsibility.”

“You could lose a lot of money that way, which means you could get a tax rebate.”

“You get a company number, and off you go Kido.”

“That is a great way of heading off tax.”

VALUABLE RESOURCES

Listen to The Tutor Podcast on the Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-tutor-podcast/id1369191372)!
- Build Your Online Course Week 1: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/build-your-online-course/id1369191372?i=1000477109724
- Course Planning Week 2: Who Am I?: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/build-your-online-course/id1369191372?i=1000477109724
- Who are They? (Know Your Punters): https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/who-are-they-know-your-punters/id1369191372?i=1000478984529
Read the Weird Things Guitarists Do book by Neil Cowmeadow, which is available now on Amazon. Link - https://www.amazon.co.uk/Weird-Things-Guitarists-Do-Misconceptions/dp/1519026579/
Contact Neil via this website - com!

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

info@neilcowmeadow.com

Master Your Money Mindset

Mon, 15 Mar 2021 00:00:00 -0000

Have you ever thought about your attitude towards money? And whether that reflects in your current financial status? Join Neil today as he discusses how your attitude towards money decides whether you will have money in abundance, or spend your life skint. Discover how money simply amplifies your personality, how it can serve as feedback for the value you give to people and how to make money whilst you’re sleeping.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Your whole attitude towards money is a big factor in whether you can create and accumulate wealth or whether you are always going to be skint. It is really important to get your head straight about money as it matters for both your business success and your personal happiness.

Money is essentially neutral. It doesn't do anything in and of itself other than amplify who you are. Money allows you to be more of who you are and what you are. Money is essentially a system of storing and transmitting value. If you can get away from the idea that money is somehow difficult to get hold of you will find it will make its way to you, because you expect it to come to you.

Money is a by-product of excellence. It is feedback that you are doing a great job and are providing massive value for your students. The more value that you can provide to your customers in any of the areas that you are active, the more money, feedback and positive response for that value you can receive.

Always spend less than you earn, it could not be easier than that. If you follow this rule every month then you will get progressively richer. Before you pay for anything for anything else you save or invest a predetermined percentage of your paycheck or income. You have to protect your rainy day fund.

Make your money work for you. If you invest in property you can essentially make money, whilst you are asleep. As long as you look after your tenants and your properties, that money will continue to come into your bank account each month. The more money that comes in, the more units you can buy.

BEST MOMENTS

“If your beliefs about money aren't helpful, then by definition they are probably hurting you.”

“If you’re a pratt, and you’re skint then the chances are you are going to be an even bigger pratt with money.”

“Every time somebody pays me I go ‘cool, I did something worthwhile for them and they’re happy to exchange that into value for what I have done for them’.”

“If your rainy day fund is easily accessible, you know it is going to rain pretty soon.”

VALUABLE RESOURCES

Listen to The Tutor Podcast on the Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-tutor-podcast/id1369191372)!
- Build Your Online Course Week 1: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/build-your-online-course/id1369191372?i=1000477109724
- Course Planning Week 2: Who Am I?: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/build-your-online-course/id1369191372?i=1000477109724
- Who are They? (Know Your Punters): https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/who-are-they-know-your-punters/id1369191372?i=1000478984529
Read the Weird Things Guitarists Do book by Neil Cowmeadow, which is available now on Amazon. Link - https://www.amazon.co.uk/Weird-Things-Guitarists-Do-Misconceptions/dp/1519026579/
Contact Neil via this website - com!

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

info@neilcowmeadow.com

DDWT

Mon, 08 Mar 2021 00:00:00 -0000

In today's podcast Neil shares with you his second golden rule to ensure you run a happy and successful tutoring business. DDWT stands for “Don’t Deal With Tossers’ a powerful statement that can rid you of any negative people in your life. Today, Neil discusses the benefits of this approach to life such as the ability to pre-frame all of your client interactions, not having people steal your valuable time and how this approach could actually earn you more clients, and more money.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

DDWT stands for ‘Don’t Deal With Tossers’. This statement is so powerful as it allows you to pre-frame all your client interactions and remove makeweights. Living this way also eliminated your need to spend time with those people who do not make you happy.

Share this thought with your students. It is a great ice breaker should you need one. It also sets up and frames the beginning of your student-teacher relationship. It shows them that you are going to work to your best ability, and indirectly asks the question back to them, ‘how about you?’.

DDWT is the sanest approach to business you could ever take. Without DDWT you risk working with people who mess you around, and steal your valuable time. These people may even ruin your plans, and drain your energy and enthusiasm. With DWWT you’ll work with people you like, respect and admire and it will be effortless.

Whilst this is your business, it is important to not let money overshadow DDWT. For your hourly fee, you could have your whole working life ruined, by just one person, it is just not worth it. Their attitude could potentially ruin the rest of your day, having an impact on your hardworking students. For the sake of an extra hours fee, you can save yourself the hassle if dealing with this person.

BEST MOMENTS

“It’s a great ice-breaker”

“It tends to select out the tossers. if they quit, they’re a tosser”

“I started doing it and I got busier because I wasn’t being messed around by tossers.”

VALUABLE RESOURCES

Listen to The Tutor Podcast on the Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-tutor-podcast/id1369191372)!
- Build Your Online Course Week 1: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/build-your-online-course/id1369191372?i=1000477109724
- Course Planning Week 2: Who Am I?: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/build-your-online-course/id1369191372?i=1000477109724
- Who are They? (Know Your Punters): https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/who-are-they-know-your-punters/id1369191372?i=1000478984529
Read the Weird Things Guitarists Do book by Neil Cowmeadow, which is available now on Amazon. Link - https://www.amazon.co.uk/Weird-Things-Guitarists-Do-Misconceptions/dp/1519026579/
Contact Neil via this website - com!

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

info@neilcowmeadow.com

IF IT AIN'T FUN

Mon, 01 Mar 2021 00:00:00 -0000

Are you stuck in a rut, not enjoying what you do? Join Neil today as he encourages the mantra ‘If it ain’t fun, don’t do it!’. Today, Neil discusses one of life's golden rules “Don’t do stuff that makes you miserable”, how no amount of money can solve your misery and how your joy in what you do will infect your students and get better results.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

One of life's golden rules is “Don’t do stuff that makes you miserable”. There’s no amount of money, prestige or self-sacrifice that can compensate you for being miserable. You could be making a million pounds a year, but be depressed. Are you having a better life than the person who makes an average salary who loves what they do?

Money is an illusion. If you spend your day doing epic, fun stuff, your life will be joyous, fulfilled and meaningful and no amount of money can take that away from you.

The joy you have in your career will become infectious to others. Your students will feel joy just being in your presence as it is clear to them that you love what you do.

Tell your students this Golden Rule: if it ain’t fun, we’re not doing it. Their faces will light up, they will understand that everything will be okay. Feel free to be silly – it makes learning more of a game, lowers the student’s imagined consequences of screwing-up
Try out new stuff as it occurs to you. Tell them “I’ve just had a crazy idea”. Some of the best teaching materials were born this way. Try to ignore the traditional way of thinking about music and try it a new way.

BEST MOMENTS

“Money doesn’t buy happiness” but it can give you misery in luxury.”

“Your fun-factor will also infect your students”

“Failure is ok – we were just mucking about!”

VALUABLE RESOURCES

Listen to The Tutor Podcast on the Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-tutor-podcast/id1369191372)!
- Build Your Online Course Week 1: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/build-your-online-course/id1369191372?i=1000477109724
- Course Planning Week 2: Who Am I?: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/build-your-online-course/id1369191372?i=1000477109724
- Who are They? (Know Your Punters): https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/who-are-they-know-your-punters/id1369191372?i=1000478984529
Read the Weird Things Guitarists Do book by Neil Cowmeadow, which is available now on Amazon. Link - https://www.amazon.co.uk/Weird-Things-Guitarists-Do-Misconceptions/dp/1519026579/
Contact Neil via this website - com!

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

info@neilcowmeadow.com

TOTAL SPECIALISATION V. POLYMATHY

Mon, 22 Feb 2021 00:00:00 -0000

If Lockdown has taught us anything it is that you need to diversify your life. Join Neil today as he discusses the importance of polymathy and why learning new skills and jobs can make us become more interesting. Neil discusses famous polymaths and their impact on the world, how learning new skills can be fun and how to split your time to meet all of your drivers.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Polymathy means “knowing a lot about many things”. We seem to be encouraged to become totally focused on “our thing”, and that specialisation is good. However, this should not come at the expense of broader learning and expertise. Focus like a laser and become outstanding at what you do primarily, then add more skills, more learning, and more fun.
The upshot of recognising and embracing dichotomy is that from the moment you wake up, to the moment you go to sleep, you’re absorbed, fascinated, and having fun doing what you love.
An unexpected outcome of lockdown is the realisation that you need to diversify your life. The brain wants to solve a puzzle, the hands need to feel the satisfaction of working and the brain needs to develop new skills.
Being widely read and interested in a whole bunch of things makes us more interesting, we have references beyond our speciality and lessons from all over the place, parallels to draw, similes and comparisons, insights and treasure. Without diverse interests and activities, we can all grow stale: having multiple interests, jobs, work and activities gives us different perspectives, often insights from one field apply elsewhere.
You may already be an expert teacher. However, for someone who is already an expert in-field, your next breakthrough will probably come from outside of your field. Ideas which are common “over there” are unthinkable “over here”.

BEST MOMENTS

“If each thing you do adds an income stream, too - happy days!”

“but that could also mean a narrowing of my vision – where’s the fun in that?”

“I’ll be grinning every step of the way because it’s fun to be so interested in so many things.”

VALUABLE RESOURCES

Listen to The Tutor Podcast on the Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-tutor-podcast/id1369191372)!
- Build Your Online Course Week 1: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/build-your-online-course/id1369191372?i=1000477109724
- Course Planning Week 2: Who Am I?: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/build-your-online-course/id1369191372?i=1000477109724
- Who are They? (Know Your Punters): https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/who-are-they-know-your-punters/id1369191372?i=1000478984529
Read the Weird Things Guitarists Do book by Neil Cowmeadow, which is available now on Amazon. Link - https://www.amazon.co.uk/Weird-Things-Guitarists-Do-Misconceptions/dp/1519026579/
Contact Neil via this website - com!

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

info@neilcowmeadow.com

Keep on Growing

Mon, 15 Feb 2021 00:00:00 -0000

If there was ever a time in life where you could spend time discovering, growing and learning new skills and talents, it is now. Join Neil today as he explains the importance of continually growing and learning, no matter how qualified you already are. Learn why investing in yourself is the best investment there is, how the past year has proven that nothing ever stays the same and why learning new skills can open you and your business up to more and more opportunities.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Commit yourself to continual learning and growth. Lockdown is an opportunity to learn new skills and adapt to the new normal. If you haven't already, you can set aside time to learn new online techniques to enhance your tutoring business through this new lockdown. The last year should have been a wake-up call to all of us: nothing stays the same, we must change too. Set the time aside, every single day

When you keep on learning you collect new ideas and stir them into the pot of what you already know.

You can learn to synthesise new ways of teaching and doing what you do and this can help to open up new opportunities for you and your business. You grow, you try stuff, you become better.

Invest in yourself, it is the best investment there is. It’s not a cost, it’s an investment. Buy the books, take the courses, listen to the lectures, watch the videos. You can do it while you’re doing other stuff like cooking, driving or exercising.
Remember that many training and education costs are deductible expenses and can be offset against your business profits – provided you are not starting out in a totally new field, but are adding to something you already do in your business.

BEST MOMENTS

“In-field and out of my field – every day is a school day”

“Maybe it’s in your field of expertise, maybe it’s outside”

“In my imagination I’m Indiana Jones”,

“that was a massive learning curve”

VALUABLE RESOURCES

Listen to The Tutor Podcast on the Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-tutor-podcast/id1369191372)!
- Build Your Online Course Week 1: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/build-your-online-course/id1369191372?i=1000477109724
- Course Planning Week 2: Who Am I?: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/build-your-online-course/id1369191372?i=1000477109724
- Who are They? (Know Your Punters): https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/who-are-they-know-your-punters/id1369191372?i=1000478984529
Read the Weird Things Guitarists Do book by Neil Cowmeadow, which is available now on Amazon. Link - https://www.amazon.co.uk/Weird-Things-Guitarists-Do-Misconceptions/dp/1519026579/
Contact Neil via this website - com!

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

info@neilcowmeadow.com

Yes, and...

Mon, 08 Feb 2021 00:00:00 -0000

The only constant in life is change and all that you can do to embrace it is by saying “yes, and...” Listen in to another insightful episode of The Tutor Podcast as Neil discusses the principle of how “yes, and...” can adapt to any given situation, why you must accept change and continue to grow and develop and when “yes, and...” can be utilised as a gift and a presupposed positive.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Improvisation says “yes, and...” accepts what’s given, utilises it as a gift, doesn’t fight to control the situation, presupposes a positive and compels continuation.

The “yes, and...” principle works in life and work, too. Whatever happens that you cannot change, say “yes, and...”. Perhaps now more than at any other time, we’re in a situation that we can’t directly affect, so accept it, and get on with making the most out of it.

Whatever you think of the situation (real or fake, perilous or propaganda) you can’t change it, so work with the changes as they arise and develop.

“yes, and...” is an opportunity to spur you on, to add a new skill, start an unrelated business or side-hustle, focus on doing even more online lessons and do work that can’t be done whilst you’re teaching.

Modify your plans and consider a variety of scenarios – from resumption of the old norms through to radical changes. The more you play down the chessboard in your imagination, the better prepared you’ll be when changes happen.

BEST MOMENTS

“It’s not easy to say “yes, and...” but when you do, you release the anger and frustration, and that makes space for something better”

“The only constant is change, and the situation will morph, evolve and develop”

“Oh Lord, give me the courage to change that which I can change and the serenity to accept what I cannot change – and grant me the wisdom to tell one from the other”

“Dance with what you’re given – let’s see where that takes us all”

VALUABLE RESOURCES

Listen to The Tutor Podcast on the Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-tutor-podcast/id1369191372)!
- Build Your Online Course Week 1: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/build-your-online-course/id1369191372?i=1000477109724
- Course Planning Week 2: Who Am I?: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/build-your-online-course/id1369191372?i=1000477109724
- Who are They? (Know Your Punters): https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/who-are-they-know-your-punters/id1369191372?i=1000478984529
Read the Weird Things Guitarists Do book by Neil Cowmeadow, which is available now on Amazon. Link - https://www.amazon.co.uk/Weird-Things-Guitarists-Do-Misconceptions/dp/1519026579/
Contact Neil via this website - com!

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

info@neilcowmeadow.com

The Mastermind Alliance

Mon, 01 Feb 2021 00:00:00 -0000

Learn today how to create your own Mastermind Alliance. Discover the simple process of assembling a group of experts around you that can help solve some of your toughest problems. Neil discusses how to choose your alliances, the insights you can learn and how a difference of perspective can help solve your dilemmas.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

The Mastermind Alliance is a simple process of assembling a group of experts around you. The best part is, they don’t need to be there. As long as you can read and learn as much as you can about the people whose learning and history inspire you, you can recruit them into the group.

As you read and learn about these people along the way, you will gain an insight into how they thought, lived, moved through the world and what made their learning worth us exploring.

This is your invisible peer group. They are there for you 24/7 whenever you shall need them. Whenever you have a problem, invite the members of your mastermind alliance to come and join you. Then ask for each of their advice and perspectives on your problems.

As you continue to learn and assemble your own ‘Mastermind Alliance’, you will experience some pretty interesting results. You may gain insights and perspectives that you may not personally have but will come from members of your group.

The learning itself is fun. Getting them to solve your problems is the really cool part because they will surprise you with their insight, wisdom and perspective. Many of the insights will perhaps be different from what you expected as you may only expect the answers that you yourself could generate.

BEST MOMENTS

“They can be real, alive, real or fictitious.”

“There are great audiobooks.”

“Let them talk. Trust them.”

VALUABLE RESOURCES

Listen to The Tutor Podcast on the Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-tutor-podcast/id1369191372)!
- Build Your Online Course Week 1: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/build-your-online-course/id1369191372?i=1000477109724
- Course Planning Week 2: Who Am I?: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/build-your-online-course/id1369191372?i=1000477109724
- Who are They? (Know Your Punters): https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/who-are-they-know-your-punters/id1369191372?i=1000478984529
Read the Weird Things Guitarists Do book by Neil Cowmeadow, which is available now on Amazon. Link - https://www.amazon.co.uk/Weird-Things-Guitarists-Do-Misconceptions/dp/1519026579/
Contact Neil via this website - com!

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

info@neilcowmeadow.com

Staying Sane in Lockdown 3

Mon, 25 Jan 2021 00:00:00 -0000

Lockdown 3.0 has brought with it many challenges. The restrictions on our freedom can and have caused many people mental health problems. Join Neil today as he gives his top tips on staying sane during Lockdown 3.0. Neil discusses the value of recognising things you are grateful for, the fearful affect the mainstream media has on us and why daily reflections can help boost your morale.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Due to the Lockdown enforcements, many people are struggling with their mental health. People are feeling like they no longer have control of their lives. The very best way to look after your mental health in Lockdown 3.0 is to look after yourself and save your sanity.

Be grateful. If you wake up every day, you’re ahead of the curve. Waking up every day means you can still be useful and be of service to your tribe. You get to be a positive force if you decide to take that option. Write down things that you can be grateful for.

Get away from the news. If all the news is telling you is the same, scripted disastrous news, then get away from it. The mainstream media preys upon you by making you fearful and keeping you glued in front of the television. It will not serve you.

The battle for your health is not going to be won in the gym. It is going to be won and lost in the supermarket. Don’t buy junk food and make yourself a list of things that are good for your body. Ensure you only buy the groceries on the list.

When you review and reflect on the day and the choices you made, do you think that that reflection will affect your future choices and allow you to make better choices as you move forward?

Reflect on what you learned during the day. Write your learning down in a journal and close the day off with that. Be grateful because you had a chance to have a positive impact on the day, and tomorrow when you wake up you get to do that all over again.

BEST MOMENTS

“It is up to us because it is blatantly obvious there doesn’t seem to be any consideration given to the mental health outpour of this pandemic from the government.”

“If you wake up and decide to play the victim. Tough. Nobody cares, you are just taking up space if that’s the role you want to adopt.”

“I believe it is the main reason I am so positive.”

“If I dress for work I will have my work head-on.”

“Guys, look after your mental health.”

VALUABLE RESOURCES

Listen to The Tutor Podcast on the Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-tutor-podcast/id1369191372)!
- Build Your Online Course Week 1: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/build-your-online-course/id1369191372?i=1000477109724
- Course Planning Week 2: Who Am I?: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/build-your-online-course/id1369191372?i=1000477109724
- Who are They? (Know Your Punters): https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/who-are-they-know-your-punters/id1369191372?i=1000478984529
Read the Weird Things Guitarists Do book by Neil Cowmeadow, which is available now on Amazon. Link - https://www.amazon.co.uk/Weird-Things-Guitarists-Do-Misconceptions/dp/1519026579/
Contact Neil via this website - com!

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

info@neilcowmeadow.com

Pause for Thought

Mon, 18 Jan 2021 00:00:00 -0000

Today marks Neil’s 150th episode of The Tutor Podcast. Join Neil as he reflects on what he can be grateful for and what he can improve on in his tutoring business. He discusses why it is important to aim to create a change amongst your students, why it is your duty as a tutor to help your students reach their desired success and how to infect them with your enthusiasm.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Create change. If they’re the same at the end of a lesson then you have failed. This is what teaching is really about, it’s not about content or lesson plans, it’s about making a connection and effecting change in your students.
You must aim to lift up your students so they can see themselves further down the road, to see a vision of themselves as better and more capable and instill the skills, ideas and principles they need and to guide them to the point where their reality catches up with that vision.
You must help other people. Think of it as reaching back from your position, ahead of them, and pulling them forward, faster and more securely than they could do for themselves.
Ask your students the question “what else do you want to do?”. The subtext of what you do as the teacher should always be: “you’re able to learn quickly and to understand so much, so what else would you like to be good at, have, do or be in your life?”
Infect them with your enthusiasm and passion for the subject. Try not to flat line them with boring lessons. That would turn them off to learning, and you should not let that happen.

BEST MOMENTS

“They leave behind a trace of themselves, as we leave something of ourselves in them”

“I’m even more enthusiastic and grateful than I was in episode 1”

“Let’s make it fun. Be silly, irreverent, playful”

VALUABLE RESOURCES

Listen to The Tutor Podcast on the Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-tutor-podcast/id1369191372)!
- Build Your Online Course Week 1: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/build-your-online-course/id1369191372?i=1000477109724
- Course Planning Week 2: Who Am I?: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/build-your-online-course/id1369191372?i=1000477109724
- Who are They? (Know Your Punters): https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/who-are-they-know-your-punters/id1369191372?i=1000478984529
Read the Weird Things Guitarists Do book by Neil Cowmeadow, which is available now on Amazon. Link - https://www.amazon.co.uk/Weird-Things-Guitarists-Do-Misconceptions/dp/1519026579/
Contact Neil via this website - com!

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

info@neilcowmeadow.com

The Great Windows Wind-Up

Mon, 11 Jan 2021 00:00:00 -0000

These days the majority of our lives are stored on our personal devices containing everything from our financial records to our clients’ details. Can you imagine losing all of that because of a software glitch or virus? Join Neil today as he discusses what to do to avoid a complete loss of personal data should your computer fail you. Learn the importance of having a rescue USB, a separate partition on your C drive and why backing up your financial data is essential.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

No matter what software you are using to run your machine on, it is always recommended to have a rescue USB or CD drive ready for the inevitable crashing of the system.

When you reinstall your operating system (such as Windows), it will usually wipe all of your apps, all of your settings and all of your personal data if it is held on the same drive as the files that are used to run the computer itself. On most computers, this is called the C drive.

If your data is on the system drive and the drive is wiped, you have lost that data forever. That could be many years of work or even your students’ contact details and personalised lesson plans. Don’t think that it won’t happen to you, because it will. Start thinking ‘when it happens to me’ and protect your data now. It is truly the lifeblood of your business.

Be paranoid. It will happen. The best suggestion to avoid loss of data is to put it all onto a separate data drive or separate partition on your C drive from your system files. Keep moving your app set up files from the download folder which it normally defaults to in your browser to a new folder on your second data drive. That way when you need to reinstall the app you won’t have to go to the website and download it all over again.

It is always recommended to invest in good security software across all of your devices. Viruses evolve for computers and they also mutate. Make sure the updates take place automatically. If you’re using a Windows machine, turn off automatic Windows updates.

Backing up your financial data is essential. If you are investigated for tax reasons by HMRC you need to provide them with 6 years worth of records from the end of the last financial year. Set your calendar now to do regular back-up days.

BEST MOMENTS

“If your plan for the day is teaching online, good luck with that.”

“It is your data that matters.”

“Be paranoid.”

“I can only imagine how distressing it is going to be to switch on your PC and discover it’s a basket case.”

VALUABLE RESOURCES

Listen to The Tutor Podcast on the Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-tutor-podcast/id1369191372)!
- Build Your Online Course Week 1: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/build-your-online-course/id1369191372?i=1000477109724
- Course Planning Week 2: Who Am I?: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/build-your-online-course/id1369191372?i=1000477109724
- Who are They? (Know Your Punters): https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/who-are-they-know-your-punters/id1369191372?i=1000478984529
Read the Weird Things Guitarists Do book by Neil Cowmeadow, which is available now on Amazon. Link - https://www.amazon.co.uk/Weird-Things-Guitarists-Do-Misconceptions/dp/1519026579/
Contact Neil via this website - com!

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

info@neilcowmeadow.com

My Big Tick-list!

Mon, 04 Jan 2021 00:00:00 -0000

Being locked down for the majority of the year has taken its toll on many people. In today’s episode, Neil discusses how lockdown helped him to create his Big Ticklist. The tick list enables him to perform a series of tasks throughout the day which can help improve his health, relationships and skills. Find out today how you too can create your tick list to reach both your short and long term goals.

KEY TAKEAWAY

When lockdown started, it began to get to a lot of people. Many people struggled with the lack of control and uncertainty that lockdown brought. Think about what your ideal day looks like under the current circumstances and base it around achieving your long term goals.

The multiple tick box list that you will create will be compelling. You will make a ton of progress towards your personal goals in just a week. Creating this list will allow you to feel in control again, in fact, it will work so well that you will find yourself eager to complete your tasks each day.

Identify patterns that work for you and patterns that don’t. What is it that you find yourself doing that collapses the day for you? Does that leave you with a load of zeros in the tickbox rather than ticking them all? The tick list will allow you to identify with whom and where the bad things happen.

You will create a medium-sized tick list. You will move through this list in sequence throughout the day, every day. If you continue to follow this tick list, you will be to feel like a winner. This list will help you to improve your health, skills and relationships. Achieving your goals will become as simple as doing the next thing on your list.

BEST MOMENTS

“I had to slice my elephant up, and have a sandwich every day.”

“I created a big tick list matrix.”

“It almost worked too well for me.”

VALUABLE RESOURCES

Listen to The Tutor Podcast on the Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-tutor-podcast/id1369191372)!
- Build Your Online Course Week 1: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/build-your-online-course/id1369191372?i=1000477109724
- Course Planning Week 2: Who Am I?: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/build-your-online-course/id1369191372?i=1000477109724
- Who are They? (Know Your Punters): https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/who-are-they-know-your-punters/id1369191372?i=1000478984529
Read the Weird Things Guitarists Do book by Neil Cowmeadow, which is available now on Amazon. Link - https://www.amazon.co.uk/Weird-Things-Guitarists-Do-Misconceptions/dp/1519026579/
Contact Neil via this website - com!

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

info@neilcowmeadow.com

Goals and Planning for 2021

Mon, 28 Dec 2020 00:00:00 -0000

Nobody could have predicted what would happen to the world in 2020 and nobody can predict what is yet to come. Join Neil today as he discusses why it is vital to have goals which can guide you on the path to your future self, why you should plan across multiple scenarios in the next year and why having any plan is better than having no plan at all.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

As always at this time of year, it is a good time to sit down and take a look at making goals and planning for the next year. It is vital to have goals as they are the steering points towards which we’re heading. The processes of these goals are going to get you there and the goals will determine the process.

Ask yourself what do you want to be doing in ten or fifteen years? Where do you want to be? How do you want to live your life? With whom do you want to be? And What legacy do you want to build? Look back from there to today and try and figure out from that distant point, what happens before then?

In 2021 things will be a little bit different. We should be planning across multiple scenarios, we cannot guess how things are going to go down in 2021. We may face another lockdown, different tiers of control or increased/decreased unknown restrictions. It is prudent to think of the economic fallout of the last year and how that will affect your ability to achieve your goals.

Make yourself a plan A, but also have a plan B, C, D etc. These plans do not have to be perfect but any plan is better than no plan. Hopefully, things will change for the better for everybody’s sake. Hope for the best, but plan for the worst. Don’t stop doing what you love and plan to keep going forward and doing that.

BEST MOMENTS

“Let’s get on and set some master goals for ourselves.”

“You have to ask yourself what happens the year before you made a million pounds”

“I’ll still be teaching until they throw dirt on my head.”

VALUABLE RESOURCES

Listen to The Tutor Podcast on the Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-tutor-podcast/id1369191372)!
- Build Your Online Course Week 1: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/build-your-online-course/id1369191372?i=1000477109724
- Course Planning Week 2: Who Am I?: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/build-your-online-course/id1369191372?i=1000477109724
- Who are They? (Know Your Punters): https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/who-are-they-know-your-punters/id1369191372?i=1000478984529
Read the Weird Things Guitarists Do book by Neil Cowmeadow, which is available now on Amazon. Link - https://www.amazon.co.uk/Weird-Things-Guitarists-Do-Misconceptions/dp/1519026579/
Contact Neil via this website - com!

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

info@neilcowmeadow.com

Look Back and Learn from 2020

Mon, 21 Dec 2020 00:00:00 -0000

Join your host Neil as he reflects on the year and the effects of the Covid-19 pandemic. Neil discusses how we no longer live in a free society, why it is vital to ensure that you have more than one revenue stream and how this year should serve as a reminder that nobody is coming to your rescue.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

These are not unprecedented times. Totalitarian states have created chaos like this time and time again as a way to increase control and suppress the population. It seems to be the media driving the agenda, however, you have got to remember this point all media channels are moderated and licensed by the state.

People are being told that they have no right to assembly. They are being told who they can see and when, where you can go and what you must wear. There is no way that you can say that we now live in a free society.

We are being railroaded into mass injections. The vaccine appears to work however it has not been tested to anywhere near the extent that normal vaccines are tested. The vaccine may have long term effects which cannot be judged.

This year should serve as a reminder that nobody is coming to your rescue. Change is inevitable. If you only have one single strategy then you are massively at risk. As the world changes around you that strategy may become inoperable or obsolete. We must have more than one revenue stream.

The external world is always going to be there to challenge us but how we respond to that is our choice. We have to be able to robustly manage our state and your response to what is going on. Normal as you knew it last year has gone, perhaps forever.

BEST MOMENTS

“At the moment the world seems to have completely taken leave of its senses.”

“The economy is being crashed for political reasons.”

“I’m wondering to myself, is this just the beginning?”

VALUABLE RESOURCES

Listen to The Tutor Podcast on the Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-tutor-podcast/id1369191372)!
- Build Your Online Course Week 1: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/build-your-online-course/id1369191372?i=1000477109724
- Course Planning Week 2: Who Am I?: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/build-your-online-course/id1369191372?i=1000477109724
- Who are They? (Know Your Punters): https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/who-are-they-know-your-punters/id1369191372?i=1000478984529
Read the Weird Things Guitarists Do book by Neil Cowmeadow, which is available now on Amazon. Link - https://www.amazon.co.uk/Weird-Things-Guitarists-Do-Misconceptions/dp/1519026579/
Contact Neil via this website - com!

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

info@neilcowmeadow.com

Is This Truely Obsession?!

Mon, 14 Dec 2020 00:00:00 -0000

Do you wake up with a smile on your face and count the hours until your Vortex opens? Do you, like host Neil, also have a love affair with your job? In today’s episode, Neil describes his love for tutoring, why spending your days doing what you love fills you with drive and energy and why getting paid is just a by-product of what your job really means to you.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Christmas is approaching and many tutors are back giving in-person covid safe tutoring to their students. In-person tutoring often offers the experience of helping people to a much higher degree than you can over video. Many students are eager to play catch-up, get out of the house and do more of what they love making the most of their time off work and will continue to attend their tutoring lessons over Christmas.
Tutors often love teaching and love helping people. As a tutor, you are valued and extremely useful to your students. You are able to encourage them to become better versions of themselves.
Spending your days doing what you love may sound exhausting to others but the truth is that it most likely gives you energy and drive. Having a job which is also your passion is incredibly rewarding. How lucky are you to get paid for doing what you love to do most in the world by sharing your passion and fascination with your students.
Getting paid is just a by-product of doing your job. When you love your work, you “do it to do it”, and the truth is that you’d probably do it for free, just to keep doing what you love.

BEST MOMENTS

“How lucky you and I are to get paid for doing what we love to do most in the world”

“I’d say it’s about being drawn toward teaching, rather than driven by anything. It’s a pull, rather than a push.”

“Do you lose track of time – hours flash by in minutes and you lose the need to eat or drink?”

VALUABLE RESOURCES

Listen to The Tutor Podcast on the Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-tutor-podcast/id1369191372)!
- Build Your Online Course Week 1: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/build-your-online-course/id1369191372?i=1000477109724
- Course Planning Week 2: Who Am I?: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/build-your-online-course/id1369191372?i=1000477109724
- Who are They? (Know Your Punters): https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/who-are-they-know-your-punters/id1369191372?i=1000478984529
Read the Weird Things Guitarists Do book by Neil Cowmeadow, which is available now on Amazon. Link - https://www.amazon.co.uk/Weird-Things-Guitarists-Do-Misconceptions/dp/1519026579/
Contact Neil via this website - com!

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

info@neilcowmeadow.com

THE RULES AFTER LOCKDOWN 2.0 IN TIERS

Mon, 07 Dec 2020 00:00:00 -0000

Whilst England may officially be out of Lockdown 2.0, it doesn’t mean that all can return to normal as England is still operating on a 3 Tier system depending on the R rate in your local area. To avoid breaking the rules in your local area, and to allow you to return to face-to-face tutoring in a safe manner Neil discusses the different tier systems and what this means for you and your tutoring business.

Key Takeaways

England will return to a system of three tiers from 2 December, with differences in what is permitted or prohibited across these tiers, and some elements which are common to all three. Wales and Scotland are subject to regional rules. According to the Incorporated Society Of Musicians face-to-face private tuition can proceed in all tiers.
For tutors there are some common elements in all tiers, however, there are some small variations for those people who are working in different tiers. In all tiers in England, everyone must wear face coverings in an indoor public setting, meet others safely and essentially, wash hands and maintain a 2-meter distance.
Should you find yourself living in a Tier 1 area, private music tuition can take place in the teacher’s and pupil’s home subject to appropriate risk assessments. You can find an excellent, free return to work checklist at safetyculture.com and it is recommended you complete it, print it and keep it safe, just in case you’re asked to justify yourself.
Tutors who live and work in a Tier 2 area are able to continue private music tuition in either the tutors or the students home subject to appropriate risk assessments. It has not been made clear if there will be any further restrictions for education taking place out of school settings.
For those in Tier 3, Businesses and venues can remain open, in a COVID secure manner, other than those which remain closed by law, such as nightclubs. Tutoring businesses are not on the closure list and therefore it has been interpreted that private teaching can take place in the teacher’s and pupil’s home subject to appropriate risk assessments. It’s unclear whether there will be any subsequent restrictions in the guidance for out of schools settings or other relevant information. Schools are open in tier 3 and music teaching can continue, so peripatetic teachers can move between schools.

Best Moments

“Lockdown 2.0 is over, so we’re having the death-grip on our freedoms and livelihoods relaxed a fraction”

“I’m determined not to be downhearted by the restrictions and indignities being imposed on us all I can at least control my thoughts and my responses the last human freedom”

“ I’m looking forward to getting back in the room with the members of my tribe who either cannot or will not receive their guitar lessons online.”

VALUABLE RESOURCES

Listen to The Tutor Podcast on the Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-tutor-podcast/id1369191372)!
- Build Your Online Course Week 1: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/build-your-online-course/id1369191372?i=1000477109724
- Course Planning Week 2: Who Am I?: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/build-your-online-course/id1369191372?i=1000477109724
- Who are They? (Know Your Punters): https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/who-are-they-know-your-punters/id1369191372?i=1000478984529
Read the Weird Things Guitarists Do book by Neil Cowmeadow, which is available now on Amazon. Link - https://www.amazon.co.uk/Weird-Things-Guitarists-Do-Misconceptions/dp/1519026579/
Contact Neil via this website - com!

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

info@neilcowmeadow.com

Where Do You Want To Be In 10 Years Time? Timelines

Mon, 30 Nov 2020 00:00:00 -0000

Do you want to gain clarity on your past, present and future, understand exactly how you’re going to achieve your goals and have the ability to walk through your very own business timeline? In today’s episode of The Tutor Podcast, Neil shares with you an NLP (Neuro-linguistic programming) mind exercise that will help you visualise your future, make better and more informed decisions and gift you with the position of perspective from both outside of time and inside of time.

Contact Neil (info@neilcowmeadow.com)

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Start by visualising your life from an outsider’s perspective. Aim to be like an onlooker of your own life and ask yourself how is it for you? This position is the view from OUTSIDE OF TIME. From this position, you can look on and imagine future events and changes in your life.
The Outside of Time position is dispassionate and gives you a good overview of your business in the future and view the people you’ll need, operational changes and financial levels that will be necessary to achieve what you want from your business.

NLP Exercise

Find a space where you can imagine your future timeline. Go and stand off to one side of your imagined timeline – this is you OUTSIDE OF TIME. Stand about halfway along it and visualise 7 or 8 years to your left, The Past, visualise 7 or 8 years in the future to your right and visualise the present in front of you. Now imagine what happens in those 15 years and notice what you might want to have in place over the course of those years.
Write all of your goals down on index cards, post-its or pages from a note pad, and place them on your timeline at around about where you think they should be.”
You’re now standing alongside the imaginary line of time, OUTSIDE OF TIME, looking at what you want to achieve, now it’s time to move – to shift your perspective and to go INSIDE OF TIME – and check a few things out.
When you are INSIDE OF TIME you move position and stand in your present. Start to move along the timeline, slowly, until you reach your first index card - pick up the card, read it and put it back in place, making a note of its position or placing a marker next to it. If it’s wrong, move the card, then return to the today position and check how it feels. If there’s something missing, write a new card and insert it, do another round of check & move. If you don’t actually want that thing, eliminate it.
Completing this process will give you clarity on your timeline and enable you to check your estimations and assessments of what you’re looking to achieve.

BEST MOMENTS
“When you’re done, you’ll have a powerful and compelling vision of the next decade or more for your business and for yourself, outside of business.”
“This position is the view from OUTSIDE OF TIME. From this position, you can look on and imagine future events and changes in your life.”

VALUABLE RESOURCES

Listen to The Tutor Podcast on the Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-tutor-podcast/id1369191372)!
- Build Your Online Course Week 1: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/build-your-online-course/id1369191372?i=1000477109724
- Course Planning Week 2: Who Am I?: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/build-your-online-course/id1369191372?i=1000477109724
- Who are They? (Know Your Punters): https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/who-are-they-know-your-punters/id1369191372?i=1000478984529
Read the Weird Things Guitarists Do book by Neil Cowmeadow, which is available now on Amazon. Link - https://www.amazon.co.uk/Weird-Things-Guitarists-Do-Misconceptions/dp/1519026579/
Contact Neil via this website - com!

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

info@neilcowmeadow.com

Leverage - How to Get More with Less!

Mon, 23 Nov 2020 00:00:00 -0000

Are you using the art of leverage in your mentoring, coaching or tutoring business to get more done in less time? In this episode of The Tutor Podcast, Neil shares with you benefits of leverage in your business to do more of what you most love to do and earn more money. Listen in to discover how to systemise your business, optimise your time, build up a network of contacts and use other peoples knowledge to get what you want.

Contact Neil (info@neilcowmeadow.com)

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Leverage is very important to growing and scaling your business but as entrepreneurs, there is a belief that ‘nobody can do it better than I can’. As teachers there are limited hours to teach so we must leverage our time, people, money, systems, knowledge and contacts. All of these can work for you with very little input, once set up and optimised. It’s never too early to start using leverage.

Time: You can leverage your time more efficiently by setting a daily routine for yourself and listing out what tasks you want to get done by the end of the day and then set actions to complete those tasks. Aim to stay accountable for your time and get the best use out of it.

People: Ask yourself who can I get to do this? Build a team of experts around you that will charge less than you do for teaching. Build up a network of contacts that you can leverage to get all of your tasks done so that you can remain focused on what you’re best at, teaching.

Systems: Defined as a streamlined way of completing a task so that you can continue to grow your business in a reputable manner. Systems will make you fast and help you check the boxes off your daily routine and improve your teaching. Set up good and consistent systems for your business with a manual so that you can then farm out managing the systems for even more leverage.

Knowledge: Who knows what you want to know? Use other peoples knowledge as well as your own to get what you want. Seek out a mentor, teach or coach to help minimise your competence to excellence by leaning on others inspired thinking.

BEST MOMENTS

“Decide to do what only you can and farm out everything else and only focus on the vital few things that you love to do.”

“50% of something is better than 100% of nothing”

“Figure out what it is that only you can do, what you’re unique at doing”

“Farm out everything that you don’t what to do”

“The first time you set up your systems will be the worst time you set up your systems”

“What devices can you use to make you better at what you do”

VALUABLE RESOURCES

Listen to The Tutor Podcast on the Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-tutor-podcast/id1369191372)!
- Build Your Online Course Week 1: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/build-your-online-course/id1369191372?i=1000477109724
- Course Planning Week 2: Who Am I?: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/build-your-online-course/id1369191372?i=1000477109724
- Who are They? (Know Your Punters): https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/who-are-they-know-your-punters/id1369191372?i=1000478984529
Read the Weird Things Guitarists Do book by Neil Cowmeadow, which is available now on Amazon. Link - https://www.amazon.co.uk/Weird-Things-Guitarists-Do-Misconceptions/dp/1519026579/
Contact Neil via this website - com!

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

info@neilcowmeadow.com

Keep Calm and Tutor On

Mon, 09 Nov 2020 00:00:00 -0000

How will the new lockdown restrictions affect your tutoring business? In today’s episode, Neil shares his advice on how you can adapt and scale your business, continue to serve your tribe online and how you can set and achieve new goals both for your personal development and your business during the lockdown. Listen in and learn and why it’s important to stay positive, why you need to remain a leader to your students and how you and your business can thrive under new restrictions.

Contact Neil (info@neilcowmeadow.com)

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Use the new lockdown to set yourself a goal. Consider your accounts, out of date admin and if you’re learning anything moving forward? Set yourself an income goal, a health goal and everything to keep your business going and your mind active.
This is a good time to think strategically about your business, how you will adapt and change and how to can diversify your business in order to reach 6-streams of income to reduce any risk.
How can you continue to serve your tribe during the lockdown? Serve your tribe, contact your students and ensure you’re continuing to teach online, on social media and over the phone. This is also a good opportunity to ask for referrals, market and expand your tribe.

Remember you can’t change what happens, but you can change how you respond. More than ever, it’s down to you and me to take action on our own behalf – nobody is coming to the rescue, so it’s down to us.
We are responsible, meaning “able to respond”. This is your chance to LEAD and to SHINE, to be a reliable & positive influence in the lives of your students, clients and mentees.

BEST MOMENTS

“You can do NOTHING about the draconian legislation itself – but you DO get to choose how you respond to it.”

“Work on all those projects that you haven’t had time for”

“You should aim to have six streams of income in your business”

“Get yourself more organised and figure out how you can do things better”

VALUABLE RESOURCES

Listen to The Tutor Podcast on the Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-tutor-podcast/id1369191372)!
- Build Your Online Course Week 1: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/build-your-online-course/id1369191372?i=1000477109724
- Course Planning Week 2: Who Am I?: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/build-your-online-course/id1369191372?i=1000477109724
- Who are They? (Know Your Punters): https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/who-are-they-know-your-punters/id1369191372?i=1000478984529
Read the Weird Things Guitarists Do book by Neil Cowmeadow, which is available now on Amazon. Link - https://www.amazon.co.uk/Weird-Things-Guitarists-Do-Misconceptions/dp/1519026579/
Contact Neil via this website - com!

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

info@neilcowmeadow.com

Assume the Position

Mon, 02 Nov 2020 00:00:00 -0000

How are you perceived by your students and in your marketplace? Listen in as Neil shares his tips on how to figure out how you are positioned and how you can align your view with your students. Discover why consistency is key to success, how to position yourself as an authority in your field and how to identify your lane and stay in it.

Contact Neil (info@neilcowmeadow.com)

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Be true to yourself. Integrity is honesty and it will give your students a sense of certainty. What is it you do that makes you special, different and authority in your chosen field? Ask yourself, why you want to be a tutor?
Ask your students and get feedback from them. Ensure their perception of you is aligned with the tutor you are.
Look at what creates the perception of your teaching. Consider your environment, the lighting, your accolades and the tidiness of your teaching room. Everything says something about you and impact on the impression student will have on you.

Nothing says more about you than how you deal with time. Be on time and be professional. Being unprepared and failing to plan for your students will seriously undermine your status so take notes and keep records.

Availability can affect how you are perceived, if your calendar is empty you will appear to be unpopular, if you are booked solid you will appear to be sought after.

Consider your fees. Aim for the premium end of the market and you will attract a certain type of clientele. Additionally always offer a super-premium tier or package for your clients.

Everything counts, when you meet your students you must be who they expect you to be. Don’t leave anything to chance.

BEST MOMENTS

“Consistently show up and be the same person each and every week”

“Your appearance and your language is key to your student perception of you.”

“Identify your lane and stay in it”

“Who are you to your tribe?”

VALUABLE RESOURCES

Listen to The Tutor Podcast on the Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-tutor-podcast/id1369191372)!
- Build Your Online Course Week 1: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/build-your-online-course/id1369191372?i=1000477109724
- Course Planning Week 2: Who Am I?: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/build-your-online-course/id1369191372?i=1000477109724
- Who are They? (Know Your Punters): https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/who-are-they-know-your-punters/id1369191372?i=1000478984529
Read the Weird Things Guitarists Do book by Neil Cowmeadow, which is available now on Amazon. Link - https://www.amazon.co.uk/Weird-Things-Guitarists-Do-Misconceptions/dp/1519026579/
Contact Neil via this website - com!

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

info@neilcowmeadow.com

Everything is on YouTube

Mon, 26 Oct 2020 00:00:00 -0000

Is the amount of free video content online a problem or an opportunity for your coaching, tutoring or teaching business? Today, Neil shares his thoughts on the opportunity YouTube presents and how you can use it to created structured and sequenced lessons online but also validate your own one to one tutoring with feedback, accountability and tailored content. Listen in to find out more!

Contact Neil (info@neilcowmeadow.com)

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Students learning on YouTube suffer from the same issue of ‘monkey see, money do’ and as a result, there is no underlying knowledge that allows them to create beyond what they’ve learnt online.

As a novice seeking to learn a new skill, you don’t know what’s good or what’s bad, what’s productive and what’s relevant and what will actually be useful to them.

YouTube has become a massive opportunity for tutors providing structured and sequenced lessons with logical progression based on a system or approach. As well as providing inspiration and insights into what students are looking to learn.

By tutoring an individual you can tailor lessons to their ability and evolve their together as their knowledge and understanding develop, whereas a YouTube video is created for the masses.

Always give feedback to the students and create accountability for them that will create a solid foundation for them to build upon.
It’s likely that everything the student needs is on Youtube, along with a lot of useless content and unless the student is an expert, they’re unlikely to know the difference.

BEST MOMENTS

“With the amount of video content out there is it a problem or an opportunity?”

“A lot of students have self-taught from Youtube and pick up the basics but those students demonstrate the same problems of overwhelm”

“With the amount of content online, students don’t know what content to consume and how valid it is”

“Students learning online are trying to build on foundations built on sand”

“People today are doing more work on Youtube and getting nowhere fast”

“Humour and playfulness have to be built into your tutoring sessions”

“Cover the basics and go from the centre outwards.”

VALUABLE RESOURCES

Listen to The Tutor Podcast on the Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-tutor-podcast/id1369191372)!

Build Your Online Course Week 1: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/build-your-online-course/id1369191372?i=1000477109724
Course Planning Week 2: Who Am I?: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/build-your-online-course/id1369191372?i=1000477109724
Who are They? (Know Your Punters): https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/who-are-they-know-your-punters/id1369191372?i=1000478984529

Read the Weird Things Guitarists Do book by Neil Cowmeadow, which is available now on Amazon. Link - https://www.amazon.co.uk/Weird-Things-Guitarists-Do-Misconceptions/dp/1519026579/
Contact Neil via this website - NeilCowmeadow.com!

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

info@neilcowmeadow.com

‘What’s good about this?’

Sun, 18 Oct 2020 23:00:00 -0000

‘What’s good about this?’ By asking this question you can turn anything into something good and when you’re facing a situation at first glance, looking for the good is all that really matters. Tune in to hear Neil’s all-time favourite question and how you too, can benefit from a change in mindset, perception and fortunes when simply looking for the good and turning a negative into a positive.

Contact Neil (info@neilcowmeadow.com) with how you get on asking ‘What’s good about this’ in your business.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

By just asking ‘what’s good about this’ reframes whatever problem or issue you’re facing and takes it from being a negative situation to a situation that contains something good and valuable and allows you to dilute the gravity of the situation.

The power of asking that question can bring about new opportunities and can allow you to turn a negative situation and mindset into a positive and profitable outcome when you apply this question to your business and personal life.

Your perception will change when you begin looking for the good in the situations you encounter. If you begin to do this in all aspects of life.

BEST MOMENTS

“My favourite question of all time forces you to look at whatever the situation is and find the good in it.”

VALUABLE RESOURCES

Listen to The Tutor Podcast on the Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-tutor-podcast/id1369191372)!
- Build Your Online Course Week 1: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/build-your-online-course/id1369191372?i=1000477109724
- Course Planning Week 2: Who Am I?: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/build-your-online-course/id1369191372?i=1000477109724
- Who are They? (Know Your Punters): https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/who-are-they-know-your-punters/id1369191372?i=1000478984529
Read the Weird Things Guitarists Do book by Neil Cowmeadow, which is available now on Amazon. Link - https://www.amazon.co.uk/Weird-Things-Guitarists-Do-Misconceptions/dp/1519026579/
Contact Neil via this website - com!

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

info@neilcowmeadow.com

Battling The Inner Moron

Sun, 11 Oct 2020 23:00:00 -0000

Habits define who we are and who we believe ourselves to be but can also lead to our depression and our happiness and overtime habits will determine who we become. In today’s episode, Neil discusses the power of habits and routines and why they really matter to the success of your business, your tutoring and your wider life. Listen in to hear how to battle your inner moron and build better habits.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Habits give you an evolutionary advantage, they speed up shortcuts, save energy and speed up actions.

Habits really matter. It’s an automatic behaviour pattern, set off by a trigger with an exit routine that becomes unconscious.

Socialisation forms our habits and governments, advertisers and marketers know we are susceptible to ‘under the radar influence’ and since negative and positive habits are formed in the same way it’s easy to be pulled in the wrong direction.

The minute you admit you have a habit is the minute you’ve given up control to whatever person or organisation created that habit.

Aim to create a tick list that forms habits that are in your best interest and in turn that will help you trigger, action, exit and you will form habits that help you instead of hurt you. Your own anticipation of ‘ticking the box’ will release dopamine rewarding you for your work.
If your habits help and serve you, identify and optimise them to trigger them again and again. If your habits hurt you, identify the trigger and replace it with a new trigger for better behaviour.

BEST MOMENTS

“Not many people stop and think about their habits”

“Tame your inner moron”

VALUABLE RESOURCES

Book - The Art Of War
Listen to The Tutor Podcast on the Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-tutor-podcast/id1369191372)!
- Build Your Online Course Week 1: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/build-your-online-course/id1369191372?i=1000477109724
- Course Planning Week 2: Who Am I?: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/build-your-online-course/id1369191372?i=1000477109724
- Who are They? (Know Your Punters): https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/who-are-they-know-your-punters/id1369191372?i=1000478984529
Read the Weird Things Guitarists Do book by Neil Cowmeadow, which is available now on Amazon. Link - https://www.amazon.co.uk/Weird-Things-Guitarists-Do-Misconceptions/dp/1519026579/
Contact Neil via this website - com!

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

info@neilcowmeadow.com

Utilisation - Everything Counts

Sun, 04 Oct 2020 23:00:00 -0000

Communication is vitally important as a teacher because it is through communication skills that a teacher can utilise a students belief system and life experience to better tailor teachings to the student. In today’s episode, discover the art of utilisation and how you can use it as a successful teaching method to better educate and evolve your tutoring, teaching and coaching business.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

As a teacher you cannot focus on anything more vital than communications skills, it’s the conduit that all communication is delivered to your students. A more flexible and effective communicator will convince more people and get their message across more quickly.
All beliefs and all paradigms will fight tooth and nail for their survival. People are very resistant to change and as teachers, you must harness the power of their beliefs to help teach and overcome their defensive belief systems. Aim to turn them into a delivery system for your new ideas and proven and trusted teachings.
Always listen to your students as they will casually reversal overtime who they really are. Always ‘listen, listen and listen’ to discover whatever is in the student’s mind.
The role of a successful teacher is to remove ego and empty and inject all of your knowledge and information into your student through the right channel for them.

BEST MOMENTS

“The greatest victories are the ones that require no battle”

“Tailor the way you communicate to the receiving person (the student)”

“No matter what age your students are, ask them about their life”

“Gather intelligence about your students before going into battle”

“People are often dug into mental trenches”

“Speak in terms of the existing paradigm“

VALUABLE RESOURCES

Book - The Art Of War
Listen to The Tutor Podcast on the Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-tutor-podcast/id1369191372)!
- Build Your Online Course Week 1: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/build-your-online-course/id1369191372?i=1000477109724
- Course Planning Week 2: Who Am I?: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/build-your-online-course/id1369191372?i=1000477109724
- Who are They? (Know Your Punters): https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/who-are-they-know-your-punters/id1369191372?i=1000478984529
Read the Weird Things Guitarists Do book by Neil Cowmeadow, which is available now on Amazon. Link - https://www.amazon.co.uk/Weird-Things-Guitarists-Do-Misconceptions/dp/1519026579/
Contact Neil via this website - com!

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

info@neilcowmeadow.com

Squirrels And Rabbit Holes- Unexpected Questions.

Sun, 27 Sep 2020 23:00:00 -0000

Have you ever been taken aback by an unexpected question from one of your students during a tutoring lesson? Join Neil today as he discusses how to answer your student’s troubling questions and why you are a great source to answer them. Discover why it is important to immediately deal with your students’ query, how answering their anxieties can increase your value to them and why your own personal experiences can help shape the answer they need.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

An unexpected question asked during your tutoring session from your student is often something that has been troubling them for years. If they have been playing from their teens and are now in their sixties and they have finally figured out that it is worth getting lessons, then the tutor is able to be the source that answers that question for them.

When a student asks you an unexpected question, answer it straight away. Otherwise, with that nagging question in their minds you will struggle to engage with them on the planned material, and so will you. The question has precedence and has put down some roots in the mind. It is hogging their attention and you should deal with it. If it is not dealt with the real material will bounce off their defences.

Depending on how you’re wired up, how you respond to that question can be a problem, or it can be a chance to be of greater service and value to your students. If you’re hard-wired into the syllabus, the chances are it is a problem that needs getting rid of. If you have the knowledge and experience to formulate a solution for your students, then this is your golden moment. When you answer that question and resolve the years of anxiety then you have just ratcheted up your value to them.

Answering their unexpected questions earns you loyalty and confirms you as their authority figure. The very fact that you care enough to shift your focus demonstrates that your student’s outcome matters more to you than dogmatically following the lesson plan.

As tutors, by being useful you are able to help students by moving their lives in the direction of their dreams. You are able to help them become the people they would like to be. It is a fabulous way to make a living, and if you share all the insights and knowledge that you have to build up throughout the years, you are even more useful than if you confine yourself to a single narrow field of excellence.

As you figure out the answers and effectively communicate the answers to your students, you make new connections. You are able to discover new routes and conduits for your subject matter or an unrelated subject. As everybody knows the teacher always receives the best listeners. The most valuable lessons of all are taught to us when we teach what's uncommon and what’s hard to teach.

BEST MOMENTS

“These little unexpected squirrels and the rabbit holes that take us off track are really where the gold is.”

“You’ve demonstrated by your actions that you’re present for them and that you are able to respond to their needs You’ve made the lesson more about them and you have drawn on your own expertise and knowledge”

“It is the greatest thing about what we do day in day out. We get to be more useful.”

VALUABLE RESOURCES

Listen to The Tutor Podcast on the Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-tutor-podcast/id1369191372)!
- Build Your Online Course Week 1: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/build-your-online-course/id1369191372?i=1000477109724
- Course Planning Week 2: Who Am I?: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/build-your-online-course/id1369191372?i=1000477109724
- Who are They? (Know Your Punters): https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/who-are-they-know-your-punters/id1369191372?i=1000478984529
Read the Weird Things Guitarists Do book by Neil Cowmeadow, which is available now on Amazon. Link - https://www.amazon.co.uk/Weird-Things-Guitarists-Do-Misconceptions/dp/1519026579/
Contact Neil via this website - com!

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

info@neilcowmeadow.com

The Art of Vanishing

Sun, 20 Sep 2020 23:00:00 -0000

Discover today the benefits of perfecting the art of vanishing. Join Neil as he discusses the importance of going off the grid for the day to take yourself away from working in the business so you can focus on working on the business. Neil talks through how to eliminate your everyday distractions, how to prepare for your isolation day and why it is beneficial to take time away from your everyday life to focus on your future.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

The art of vanishing is giving yourself a day of isolation to just step back. It is really easy to get yourself sucked into the vortex of everyday ‘doing’. When you’re in business with yourself you are constantly busy, and that can be a danger. Many business owners can fall into the habit of doing little jobs for the business on top of your already large list of jobs coupled with your private life.

Having an isolation day is a really beneficial thing to do. It should be your ambition to aim to vanish a couple of days each month. Getting away from your ‘normal’ life is a tactic. Take yourself completely off the grid and eliminate all distractions. Each interruption to your working day will take about 20 minutes out of your life.

Even with the new COVID restrictions it is still well advised to take a day to yourself. This may mean not leaving the house. Tell your family members or housemates whom you live with, that you are not available throughout the day. Get your partner or your spouse on board but be prepared for some resistance and push back. Remember, you are not having a day off, you are having a clear day to think strategically and plan a better future for you both to share.

Start thinking about what supplies you will need for your isolation day. You don’t want to have to break up the precious and sacred time you have set aside for yourself, in order to go and purchase supplies. Park your car offsite. If people think that your cars are not on the driveway, then you must also be out. Turn off the doorbell and house phone as well as drawing all the curtains to prevent you from being impulsively visited.

Think about how you will structure the next ten years of your life. The best way to do this is by getting away from what you do on a day to day basis. Put some space between you and what would normally be done. Clear a whole day to escape from your desk and spend that time really thinking about how things are going. Review where you are and what you want to do more and less of.

BEST MOMENTS

“It is my way of guaranteeing I am going to work on the business, not just in it.”

“Nothing life or death ever came via email.”

“This is the time where you decide how it is going to go down for you.”

VALUABLE RESOURCES

Listen to The Tutor Podcast on the Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-tutor-podcast/id1369191372)!
- Build Your Online Course Week 1: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/build-your-online-course/id1369191372?i=1000477109724
- Course Planning Week 2: Who Am I?: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/build-your-online-course/id1369191372?i=1000477109724
- Who are They? (Know Your Punters): https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/who-are-they-know-your-punters/id1369191372?i=1000478984529
Read the Weird Things Guitarists Do book by Neil Cowmeadow, which is available now on Amazon. Link - https://www.amazon.co.uk/Weird-Things-Guitarists-Do-Misconceptions/dp/1519026579/
Contact Neil via this website - com!

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

info@neilcowmeadow.com

What's in the Box?

Sun, 13 Sep 2020 23:00:00 -0000

Have you ever had a student confess to you that they are just not creative? That they have never been able to create something unique themselves? Today Neil provides you with an exercise to exhort that creativity from each of your students. Encourage your students’ imagination by asking them to imagine what is in the fictitious box, and encourage their creativity to evolve.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

It is no wonder that governments are such big fans of education. When you impose conformity and suppress new ideas, you have to inevitably kill imagination and murder the idea of play. When the right way to do something is dogmatically enforced and non-compliance is punished, it is no wonder that children shut themselves down to avoid negative consequences. This is what schools do to kids.

Time after time students may tell you that they are not the creative type. Encourage your students to make mistakes so that they can get rid of the sounds that they don’t want and the ideas they don’t use. Start them very broad and narrow down their creativity.

What’s in the box is a technique that came from Standford University. Ask your student to close their eyes and pretend you are handing them a small box with a lid on it. There is always something in the box. Ask the student to open the box and tell you what is inside? What they find in the box is the preferred subject of a song, story or poem which they have just created out of thin air.

They have created the seed of an idea based on the position that there is something in the box at all times. Often they are reluctant to say what is in the box but you can always encourage them. Ask them ‘what colour is it?’ , ‘tell me more about it?’ or ‘where did it come from?’. Soften the questions by telling them that what they are telling you is really interesting to you.

The more physical attributes that the student can conjure up such as weight, colour, smell and texture then the more vivid the thing in the box becomes. Your job is to help your students play with the contents of the box and throw ideas backwards and forwards until the student is capable of looking after the process all by themselves.

BEST MOMENTS

“They weren’t creative, they were compliant.”

“That’s not bad for someone who isn’t creative, is it?”

“I’ve lost count of the number of students who have discovered something in the box.”

VALUABLE RESOURCES

Listen to The Tutor Podcast on the Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-tutor-podcast/id1369191372)!
- Build Your Online Course Week 1: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/build-your-online-course/id1369191372?i=1000477109724
- Course Planning Week 2: Who Am I?: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/build-your-online-course/id1369191372?i=1000477109724
- Who are They? (Know Your Punters): https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/who-are-they-know-your-punters/id1369191372?i=1000478984529
Read the Weird Things Guitarists Do book by Neil Cowmeadow, which is available now on Amazon. Link - https://www.amazon.co.uk/Weird-Things-Guitarists-Do-Misconceptions/dp/1519026579/
Contact Neil via this website - com!

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

info@neilcowmeadow.com

The Treasure Basket

Sun, 06 Sep 2020 23:00:00 -0000

In today's episode, Neil discusses how to create a treasure basket of teaching treasure to help your students learn in the best way possible. Discover how accumulating your thoughts on paper can lead to creating some of your best teaching material, how new ideas often come from non-typical students and why they love it when you try out new techniques tailored specifically for them.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

By allowing waste paper to accumulate, things that would have ordinarily been thrown away are able to be utilised for good material. Some of it may be everyday material but sometimes it comes out with a twist. Perhaps you will find a new pattern or a twist on the usual material.

Pieces of material that you have jotted down in the past on pieces of waste paper can actually catch a nuance of something you have been using subliminally below the threshold of your own recognition.

Let's say you have a new idea or implementation you would like to use on students, sometimes it may work and sometimes it doesn’t. New ideas usually come from non-typical students and you may need to come up with new ideas to help support them. Tell them that they are your ‘lab rat’ and you are going to test a new technique out on them.

The first attempt will not often work, therefore you need to tweak it and do a revised version of the new technique. The early versions will end up in the treasure basket and that is where the teaching treasure is kept.

You may find that your students love it when you try out new techniques designed to their needs as it makes the lesson solely about them. You are not just using a bog-standard approach to teaching, it is using their thoughts and processes to tailor the content to them. It is collaborating creativity because you are coming up with ideas, throwing them out there and they are giving you feedback on your new technique.

If you are not catching this, you may be missing out on a source of solid teaching gold. If you are planning to write on what you do as a teacher then this is a no brainer. Capture your output, especially on paper and especially those brilliant ideas in their raw form. The paper part is vital as it will sit in the basket looking at you and invite you to mine some of that gold. It is tangible and visible and it won't vanish.

BEST MOMENTS

“It turned what I thought was trash into treasure.”

“There might just be a shift in perspective from ourselves.”

“Those early versions go into the treasure basket.”

VALUABLE RESOURCES

Listen to The Tutor Podcast on the Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-tutor-podcast/id1369191372)!
- Build Your Online Course Week 1: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/build-your-online-course/id1369191372?i=1000477109724
- Course Planning Week 2: Who Am I?: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/build-your-online-course/id1369191372?i=1000477109724
- Who are They? (Know Your Punters): https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/who-are-they-know-your-punters/id1369191372?i=1000478984529
Read the Weird Things Guitarists Do book by Neil Cowmeadow, which is available now on Amazon. Link - https://www.amazon.co.uk/Weird-Things-Guitarists-Do-Misconceptions/dp/1519026579/
Contact Neil via this website - com!

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

info@neilcowmeadow.com

What Makes a Pro?

Sun, 30 Aug 2020 23:00:00 -0000

Have you ever wondered what separates a ‘pro’ from an ‘amateur’? Join Neil today as he outlines his 12 ways to identify if you or your tutor is a professional or not. Neil discusses the importance of punctuality, how pros are constantly evolving and bettering themselves along with why to be considered a pro, you have to be in it for the long haul.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Pro’s are always on time. Punctuality is the politeness of kings and a professional shows up on time every time. When you hire a pro they will always show up and they will always be punctual. They know the value of both their own time and your time.
Pro’s have got everything in order. They have everything they need at their fingertips. The work is important enough for the pro that they get organised and they stay organised. They know where stuff is and they can get hold of it quickly. By contrast, amateurs are disorganised and may potentially forget to bring things with them.
Pros hold the frame. The frame of the interaction is the perspective from which the encounter is viewed. The pro will always control the frame of the interaction and they structure the whole of the session so they get the result they want. With amateurs, the direction could just go anywhere. There is no real sense of frame control and they often become easily distracted.
Pro’s are always evolving. They work harder on themselves than they work in their job. They are always trying to do better, make things clearer and to teach a little better. They are often hell-bent on becoming better versions of themselves, it is endless and it is tireless. It becomes a lifelong journey of discovery for the pro. Amateurs settle, they tend to make changes only when they’re absolutely forced to.
Pro’s are in it for the long haul, often for a lifetime. Pro’s will plan, think and act as though they are going to be in the business for the rest of their lives. Amateurs tend to be very short term based, they don’t have much of a plan and it is often just a stopgap for them. If you want to be a pro, figure out how to get into tutoring for the long haul and ensure you are enjoying it every single day.

BEST MOMENTS

“Pro’s have a space or a place where they do their magic.”

“Whoever controls the frame most strongly, will control the outcome of the interaction.”

“Pro’s would teach even if we weren't getting paid for it. To do it is its own reward and it is fun for us. Holidays and days off can seem like lost opportunities for us.”

VALUABLE RESOURCES

Listen to The Tutor Podcast on the Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-tutor-podcast/id1369191372)!
- Build Your Online Course Week 1: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/build-your-online-course/id1369191372?i=1000477109724
- Course Planning Week 2: Who Am I?: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/build-your-online-course/id1369191372?i=1000477109724
- Who are They? (Know Your Punters): https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/who-are-they-know-your-punters/id1369191372?i=1000478984529
Read the Weird Things Guitarists Do book by Neil Cowmeadow, which is available now on Amazon. Link - https://www.amazon.co.uk/Weird-Things-Guitarists-Do-Misconceptions/dp/1519026579/
Contact Neil via this website - com!

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

info@neilcowmeadow.com

Handling The Price Objection

Sun, 23 Aug 2020 23:00:00 -0000

Ever wondered how to deal with customers who try to reject your pricing strategy? Are you sick of people trying to haggle down your rates? Well, join us today as Neil discusses how to handle price objections. In this episode, Neil looks at how your premium pricing should be used as a selling point, offering alternative options to those who haggle and why if you are a good tutor, you should be getting paid highly for your expertise.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

You should make your premium pricing a non-issue, better still make this a selling point. Always acknowledge your price difference, if you do not have a price difference with your competitors then ask yourself why? Are you setting your rates high enough to reflect the massive value you deliver to your students and clients?

When you come across a client that is questioning your rates you need to ask if the cost is really their main consideration. If it is, this type of client may not be the best fit for you as a tutor, because if their first interaction with you is by them trying to haggle it’s you, then they are probably not going to be pleasant to deal with going forward.

If the customer begins to object to your pricing strategy, offer them, alternative tutors, at the bottom end of the market. Explain that you are perhaps not a good fit for them, but you can recommend somebody at a lower price point. Ask them a soft version of whether they are looking for the cheapest option or the option that offers them the best results.

Always agree with your customers. Agree that yes, they could find a cheaper tutor, but would they like a cheap tutor or would they like a good tutor? Let them join the dots to the implication that they can’t have both a good tutor and a cheap tutor, these two options simply do not go hand in hand. Offering a discount on a block booking discount for a large number of lessons could be an option for your client.

If you are a good tutor you should be getting well paid for your expertise. Remember that being amongst the most expensive is usually thought to be the best. If you offer your services at a very cheap rate, you will be interpreted as being not very good. Being expensive will automatically position you as being better than others whose rates are lower than yours.

BEST MOMENTS

“I don’t think there has ever been a better situation in which to run a tutoring business. I don’t think there has ever been a situation quite as advantageous to us.”

“You are almost giving them an invitation to argue that they should be allowed to work with you.”

“Don’t be average. Aspire to be exceptional.”

VALUABLE RESOURCES

Listen to The Tutor Podcast on the Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-tutor-podcast/id1369191372)!
- Build Your Online Course Week 1: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/build-your-online-course/id1369191372?i=1000477109724
- Course Planning Week 2: Who Am I?: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/build-your-online-course/id1369191372?i=1000477109724
- Who are They? (Know Your Punters): https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/who-are-they-know-your-punters/id1369191372?i=1000478984529
Read the Weird Things Guitarists Do book by Neil Cowmeadow, which is available now on Amazon. Link - https://www.amazon.co.uk/Weird-Things-Guitarists-Do-Misconceptions/dp/1519026579/
Contact Neil via this website - com!

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

info@neilcowmeadow.com

What To Think About When You Think About Money

Sun, 16 Aug 2020 23:00:00 -0000

Discover today how altering your relationship with money, can allow you to attract more wealth and will enable you to amplify the person you already are. Listen in today as Neil discusses the strange ideas surrounding money that we have become accustomed to, how to stop attaching your emotions to money and how money is just feedback on how much value you are providing to the world.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

There are many strange ideas about money. One of them being that ‘money is the root of all evil.’ This statement is usually used by religious organisations or charities, closely followed by the suggestion that you should give them your money. This statement is a very clever manipulation of people which essentially encourages you to part with your money-making you poorer and give it to others to make them even richer.

The saying ‘money can’t buy happiness’ is true in the sense that money cannot directly buy you happiness as happiness is actually an internal state and it is not dependent on something outside of ourselves. However, it can also be argued that money has bought a lot more comfort and therefore happiness than living in poverty ever has.

If you realise that money is essentially neutral and stop attaching emotions to money, you will begin to realise that money will amplify who you are. If you are a good person, you can do more good if you have more money. Above all else, money gives you a choice. It gives you the power to choose the place, time and people you are in contact with.

Money is just feedback on how much value you are providing to your customers and to the marketplace. The amount of money you make is an indicator of how well you are playing the game. Since money is just a game, you better learn the rules and get educated. Reading books about money will allow you to change your relationship with money and you will start to become more wealthy.

Learn to love money, if you don’t love it then it will not stick around. Give your money a safe home, investing it into bank accounts and safe investments that you never touch. Set money targets for yourself, reviewing regularly and ratcheting them upwards.

Use your money to help others as well as helping yourself. Charitable giving and being generous towards others will allow you to be comfortable with money leaving you. Our purpose of being alive is to be of value and service to everyone else on the planet whilst maximising our own abilities.

BEST MOMENTS

“We need to realise that it is all a game, and as in any game, we score more goals according to how badly or how well we play the game.”

“Money is a lever, that allows you to become more of who you are.”

“There are trillions and trillions of pounds in the British money system, some of that money belongs to you.

VALUABLE RESOURCES

Listen to The Tutor Podcast on the Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-tutor-podcast/id1369191372)!
- Build Your Online Course Week 1: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/build-your-online-course/id1369191372?i=1000477109724
- Course Planning Week 2: Who Am I?: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/build-your-online-course/id1369191372?i=1000477109724
- Who are They? (Know Your Punters): https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/who-are-they-know-your-punters/id1369191372?i=1000478984529
Read the Weird Things Guitarists Do book by Neil Cowmeadow, which is available now on Amazon. Link - https://www.amazon.co.uk/Weird-Things-Guitarists-Do-Misconceptions/dp/1519026579/
Contact Neil via this website - com!

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

info@neilcowmeadow.com

Work Absurdly Hard, So You Can Do What Most People Can't

Sun, 09 Aug 2020 23:00:00 -0000

Are you fed up with working your current job, but too comfortable to take a leap into something different? Join Neil today as he explains how working absurdly hard on yourself and your business will allow you to create your own normal and live a life most people can’t. Today Neil outlines why being comfortable in life can make you weak, why taking each challenge thrown at you will allow you to grow and why others will envy your new life since you decided to get out of your comfort zone and do what they didn’t.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Beware of comfort. Comfort makes you soft, softness makes you weak, weakness makes you vulnerable and being vulnerable makes you a victim. Rather than maintaining a comfortable lifestyle, go for something that challenges you, because a challenge is an opportunity dressed in working clothes.

If all you do is take these challenges and overcome them, you will have endless growth. When you leave your comfort zone, you will find out what you are made of. As a business person you have to be prepared to make unpopular decisions, when you begin to work absurdly hard on yourself you will begin to change.

Calibrate your normal for what is going to get you where you want to go, and stick with it. Set yourself a normal level of income, for where you are now and then recalibrate it every so often, gradually moving the ratchet upwards and upwards as time goes on. Decide what is normal for you and then go and find yourself a convoy of like-minded people to involve yourself with.

Day by day as you exert control over how life goes for you and you begin to work harder and harder you will begin to disregard the negativity. Throughout the time you will grow to trust yourself and develop and learn new things daily. What you have now become will allow you to help people and add something to the world.

When you work absurdly hard, you can wind up doing exactly what you want to do each and every day and get very well paid for it. Working hard allows you to build and grow a business and a legacy which will allow you to help a ton of people in achieving what they want in life. You will look at others and see that you can do what they can’t because you did what they wouldn’t.

BEST MOMENTS

“Make sure the money isn’t driving you. Make sure it is just a byproduct of being successful”

“If you never tested to see what you are capable of, how would you ever find out?”

“Why try to fit in, when you were born to stand out.”

VALUABLE RESOURCES

Listen to The Tutor Podcast on the Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-tutor-podcast/id1369191372)!
- Build Your Online Course Week 1: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/build-your-online-course/id1369191372?i=1000477109724
- Course Planning Week 2: Who Am I?: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/build-your-online-course/id1369191372?i=1000477109724
- Who are They? (Know Your Punters): https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/who-are-they-know-your-punters/id1369191372?i=1000478984529
Read the Weird Things Guitarists Do book by Neil Cowmeadow, which is available now on Amazon. Link - https://www.amazon.co.uk/Weird-Things-Guitarists-Do-Misconceptions/dp/1519026579/
Contact Neil via this website - com!

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

info@neilcowmeadow.com

Winning The Morning Battle

Sun, 02 Aug 2020 23:00:00 -0000

Win the first battle of the day and you won’t end up chasing the rest of the day. Every day is a battle and the morning is the first fight of the day. If you can master morning routine and develop an organised plan your chances of a successful day/week will drastically improve. Listen in today to hear Neil share his thoughts on winning the morning battle and how you too can create a plan and see better results and a huge payoff every day.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

If you can win the morning battle then you don’t need to play catch up all-day. The morning is when you should take care of the crucial stuff that you want to be done before anything else.
If you win the first battle of the day you can put yourself in a positive place, just by developing a positive routine and using it every day (including weekends) Ask yourself, what would your perfect morning look like? How would it feel to get ‘that’ done before you start the day?
By creating a routine you will begin to operate by habit and will see better results with less effort, but if you make up your morning routine on the fly, it will take a lot more mental energy.
One of the most essential things you can do is to have a plan for every day. You should prioritise and diarise your daily tasks so that you know what you’re doing and when you’re doing it.
Brain dump. Write everything down that you need to do, plan and action that week, preferably with a pen so that you can’t remove it and you keep yourself accountable.
Train your unconscious mind. When you layout your projects for the next day and tell your mind to ‘get to work on it’ your mind will gather, prepare and queue up everything that you need to complete your project in the morning.
Your routine and your plan overtime will become who you are and you will automatically be admired by people and your position in the marketplace will improve.

BEST MOMENTS
“Don’t let the day begin out of control.”
“Keep pace with a time-based plan than chasing your own tale and not having any plan at all.”
“Life is a serious business and can be great fun, but ‘winging’ it is not an option”
“Planning needs a little discipline. A little bit of discipline over time will bring about huge payoffs.”
“I’m not driven, I’m compelled and drawn towards what I do”
“Be someone with a good flight plan”

VALUABLE RESOURCES

Listen to The Tutor Podcast on the Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-tutor-podcast/id1369191372)!
- Build Your Online Course Week 1: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/build-your-online-course/id1369191372?i=1000477109724
- Course Planning Week 2: Who Am I?: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/build-your-online-course/id1369191372?i=1000477109724
- Who are They? (Know Your Punters): https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/who-are-they-know-your-punters/id1369191372?i=1000478984529
Read the Weird Things Guitarists Do book by Neil Cowmeadow, which is available now on Amazon. Link - https://www.amazon.co.uk/Weird-Things-Guitarists-Do-Misconceptions/dp/1519026579/
Contact Neil via this website - com!

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

info@neilcowmeadow.com

Tutor, Mentor, Confidante, Friend

Sun, 26 Jul 2020 23:00:00 -0000

How do you see your students? Are they just your customers and cash cows or are they something more, something of greater significance? Today, learn how to start, grow and love your tutoring, teaching and coaching business by going beyond your remit to help your students and undergo the process of not just being a tutor but becoming a mentor.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Make your students your tribe, your extended family and go beyond your remit. The purpose of being a great teacher is to be able to empty yourself and refill yourself with more and better and to give away.

As a teacher and a leader of your tribe, it’s your purpose to maximise how you can help them. If a student asks for help, it’s because you have their trust and you must respect their vulnerability. By becoming an expert and a teacher in what you do, your calling is to reach forward and help others learn and be better.
Being the best version of a teacher you can comes from engaging with the whole person. A student cannot focus if their mind is elsewhere as where the mind goes, the body follows. Don’t be narrow in what you do, always try to help your student in life, the universe and everything.

One of the most rewarding parts of being a teacher is seeing that person grow and develop and being part of the catalytic acceleration of change in their minds.

Be a really good listener. Listen intently to the language that people use because it will contain clues for us to use to help them. Whatever you teach, take coaching or counselling course so that you can better resonate with your students.

Have an ongoing relationship with your tribe and care about them, believe in them and be there for them because when you achieve this, tutoring stops being work and becomes ‘hanging out with your friends.’

BEST MOMENTS

“Sometimes leading to becoming a confidant of the student and more often than not becoming their friend”

“Save your students time and give them the confidence to go after what they want. Move them close to their dreams.”

“Help your students understand the knowledge, understanding, music, passion and joy that there is in the world.”

“Empty yourself and more will be given unto you”
“Be the best version of a teacher that you can be”
“Where the mind goes, the body follows”
“You have to engage with the whole person”
“Listen intently to your students and it will reveal their answers”

VALUABLE RESOURCES

Listen to The Tutor Podcast on the Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-tutor-podcast/id1369191372)!
- Build Your Online Course Week 1: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/build-your-online-course/id1369191372?i=1000477109724
- Course Planning Week 2: Who Am I?: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/build-your-online-course/id1369191372?i=1000477109724
- Who are They? (Know Your Punters): https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/who-are-they-know-your-punters/id1369191372?i=1000478984529
Read the Weird Things Guitarists Do book by Neil Cowmeadow, which is available now on Amazon. Link - https://www.amazon.co.uk/Weird-Things-Guitarists-Do-Misconceptions/dp/1519026579/
Contact Neil via this website - com!

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

info@neilcowmeadow.com

Staying Healthy, Staying Alive

Sun, 19 Jul 2020 23:00:00 -0000

The lockdown has affected us all and the change in daily routine and stresses of what’s to come, may have impacted your health and wellbeing. Today, Neil shares his personal experience with how the pandemic has affected his physical health and shares tips on how to overcome this, from being completely honest with yourself and admitting your bad habits, to looking back at when you were at your peak health and what you did differently then, as well as making sure your workspace is a stress-free environment, both physically and mentally.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

When you hit your crisis point, the key is, to be honest with yourself. Take a look at yourself and if your health is not where you want it to be, and you are able to control that, then be honest about it and ask yourself ‘what am I doing right?’ and ‘what am I doing wrong?’. Once you have figured those two things out, the process of improving your health and fitness can start.
Look back at everything you have done, when you were in the kind of shape you wanted to be in and when you were functioning at a high level, look at what worked before. Look back down the timeline and figure out what you were doing back then to get you into your best shape.
Have a shopping list. Having a shopping list reduces the chances you pick up stuff that doesn’t work for you, the battle for your health and your wealth is one that can be lost in the supermarket aisles. Use the right kind of shopping list to keep you on track.
Get yourself some good lighting in your workspace. Without good lighting, you are going to be straining at everything, lay your work area out properly so that the workflow is simple. Ensure everything is at the right working height for you, the whole point of this is to reduce the amount of stress. When you are stressed emotionally and physically you release stress hormones which affect the production of fat in your body.
Look after yourself, look after your health. Without your health, how can you thrive? Don’t chase the wealth at the expense of your health you have to think long term and as a business person, you want to go into every business encounter with boundless energy and mental clarity which you can’t get if you are poisoned by crap food and you are dragging excess weight.
An ugly truth is that the better you look and the better you feel, the more attractive you are to the people with whom you interact on a business and personal level. This makes you a better asset to the business, you are more valuable if you look and feel better.

BEST MOMENTS

“The foundation of life is deep health and energy, and we should never neglect them. Without these, it is very hard to stay in business and work the kind of hours with focus energy and drive. “

“This was my crisis point, this was my wakeup call and I had to get really honest with myself, and that is the key.”

“Anything that you realise is not good for you, stop doing it, it is not hard.”

VALUABLE RESOURCES

Listen to The Tutor Podcast on the Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-tutor-podcast/id1369191372)!
- Build Your Online Course Week 1: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/build-your-online-course/id1369191372?i=1000477109724
- Course Planning Week 2: Who Am I?: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/build-your-online-course/id1369191372?i=1000477109724
- Who are They? (Know Your Punters): https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/who-are-they-know-your-punters/id1369191372?i=1000478984529
Read the Weird Things Guitarists Do book by Neil Cowmeadow, which is available now on Amazon. Link - https://www.amazon.co.uk/Weird-Things-Guitarists-Do-Misconceptions/dp/1519026579/
Contact Neil via this website - com!

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

info@neilcowmeadow.com

The Course, Module, or Lesson Pitch

Sun, 12 Jul 2020 23:00:00 -0000

Learn today how to structure your course module or lesson pitch which will outline to your students why they are learning and what they are there for. Learn why it is important to tell your participants the relevance of the content they are learning, the consequences of not completing the course to the best of their ability along with the benefits they will reap when completing the material.

Key Takeaways

Whether you are starting a model to give the overview or whether you are in the detail of a lesson, it is important to use the ‘pitch structure’ to capture your student’s attention as to why they are learning in the first place.
Firstly you start with The overview: What is it that this particular course or lesson is about? Pretty often this is just the title of the course, module or lesson.
Secondly, tell the participants why it is vital that they learn this stuff as well as telling them why it is relevant. It is obvious why it is relevant to you, but make it relevant to them so they can buy into the idea of following the instructions or the course.
Include instructions on how to use the course or module and how everything works. You then need to create a further incentive to apply with the instructions by outlining the downsides of skipping the content completely and the downsides of not using it.
Reconfirm the benefits of completing the lesson along with the benefits of using the material. Remind them to go back and review the material over time and then revisit the consequences of them not using the valuable information they have learned.

Best Moments

“Really get that point across so there is no doubt and what they’re looking at.”

“The downsides of not using what you’ve learned once you have learned it is more insidious if you learn it and you use it you have it and you’re on the path to mastery.”

“If you’re not using it, you might as well not know it.”

VALUABLE RESOURCES

Listen to The Tutor Podcast on the Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-tutor-podcast/id1369191372)!
- Build Your Online Course Week 1: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/build-your-online-course/id1369191372?i=1000477109724
- Course Planning Week 2: Who Am I?: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/build-your-online-course/id1369191372?i=1000477109724
- Who are They? (Know Your Punters): https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/who-are-they-know-your-punters/id1369191372?i=1000478984529
Read the Weird Things Guitarists Do book by Neil Cowmeadow, which is available now on Amazon. Link - https://www.amazon.co.uk/Weird-Things-Guitarists-Do-Misconceptions/dp/1519026579/
Contact Neil via this website - com!

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

info@neilcowmeadow.com

Structure Your Course

Sun, 05 Jul 2020 23:00:00 -0000

about how to structure your course. The structure is as important as the content. No matter how rich the knowledge you offer, if the structure itself that will take them from A to B is not solid, then you have nothing. The transformation that you (and the student) want can happen if you set a formidable structure for learning.

You don’t need to be a licensed teacher or educator to be able to do this. There are no specific rules. Let Neil help you. Listen in to this latest episode of The Tutor Podcast now to learn.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

First, the structure of your course must help you build a bridge that connects you to your students, so that it’s easy for information to travel. Also, to build a bridge that will get them from ‘feeling stuck’ to ‘enlightened’. It’s time to build that vessel.
Second, identify what you’ll need (the resources), and they’ll need from you. What do they want? What specific parts of their guitar-playing do they still need to improve?
Third, there is no one-for-all template to follow. No particular length, no particular number of courses, and no particular instructions on how you should section them. You have to learn how to adjust for your students.
Fourth, study your own module. You are the master of what you created. There’s no one else who should know what lessons fall under each section than you. And also make sure that everything’s well-researched.

BEST MOMENTS

“Structure will make life easy for your customers.”
“Focus on the structure of the course…content will present itself when you begin the structuring process.”
“As far as the live face-to-face lessons go, I’m very happy with them.”
“But people who came from different avenues, who didn’t study educational techniques, this [structuring] will be helpful.”

VALUABLE RESOURCES

Listen to The Tutor Podcast on the Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-tutor-podcast/id1369191372)!
- Build Your Online Course Week 1: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/build-your-online-course/id1369191372?i=1000477109724
- Course Planning Week 2: Who Am I?: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/build-your-online-course/id1369191372?i=1000477109724
- Who are They? (Know Your Punters): https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/who-are-they-know-your-punters/id1369191372?i=1000478984529
Read the Weird Things Guitarists Do book by Neil Cowmeadow, which is available now on Amazon. Link - https://www.amazon.co.uk/Weird-Things-Guitarists-Do-Misconceptions/dp/1519026579/
Contact Neil via this website - NeilCowmeadow.com!

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

info@neilcowmeadow.com

Transformation & The Purpose of the Course

Sun, 28 Jun 2020 23:00:00 -0000

How’s your tutoring business doing during this time?

We are now in the fourth week of our Building Online Course Special, and Neil hopes that you’ve been jotting down everything since the beginning because he has more to share. Today, he wants you to focus on the WHY of things rather than the HOW. Why start this course?

It’s easy to plan and deliver when we know the reason and the purpose. If we want to help our students effectively, then revisit our approach. What should be changed in your approach to really make a big transformation in their lives?

There are a lot of questions that Neil can help you to answer so listen in now. If you missed the first three episodes, don’t worry--you can check the links to them below!

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Stage 1: Revisit the reason for the course’s existence. Neil deep dived on this in the second part of the special. (You can check the link below, if you have missed it.) The gist, for Neil: to help his students learn and love guitar playing more and more.
Stage 2: Why does this course exist? How is this different from thousands of courses that are available online? If your approach won’t be any better than those, then why even bother? Make sure that you serve your purpose, aside from standing out.
Stage 3: Figure out why they must choose you. Always make sure that you’re helping them achieve their goal. You don’t want to be presenting a forgettable and bland course out there.
Stage 4: What’s in it for the customer? Time is always of the essence. Make sure that you provide worthwhile and clear lessons.
Stage 5: What is their endpoint? Provide something that will change your students’ lives. Neil is sure that his students will graduate more confident, more agile, and more knowledgeable after each course.

BEST MOMENTS

“Focus on the results of your customers.”
“I want them to feel that their breaks are finally off and that they didn’t lose anything.”
“Overall, I want to transform their experience in guitar and music from something difficult into something that is beautiful and joyous.”

VALUABLE RESOURCES

Listen to The Tutor Podcast on the Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-tutor-podcast/id1369191372)!
- Build Your Online Course Week 1: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/build-your-online-course/id1369191372?i=1000477109724
- Course Planning Week 2: Who Am I?: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/build-your-online-course/id1369191372?i=1000477109724
- Who are They? (Know Your Punters): https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/who-are-they-know-your-punters/id1369191372?i=1000478984529
Read the Weird Things Guitarists Do book by Neil Cowmeadow, which is available now on Amazon. Link - https://www.amazon.co.uk/Weird-Things-Guitarists-Do-Misconceptions/dp/1519026579/
Contact Neil via this website - NeilCowmeadow.com!

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

info@neilcowmeadow.com

Who Are They? (Know Your Punters)

Sun, 21 Jun 2020 23:00:00 -0000

In the third week of our mini-series on building online courses, we focus on knowing who your customers are. This is another important matter if you want to really make sales. Neil gives the low-down on how to scrutinise the demographic aspects. Who comprises your target audience? What do they really want?

There are a few questions that you can use as a the backbone when building your online course. They’re very easy to follow, just be open-minded and imaginative.

If you’ve missed the first and second episodes of this mini-series on The Tutor Podcast, see links below!

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Which of the niches am I really passionate about? And what am I really good at? For Neil, aside from his expertise in guitar, he can teach well—simplification and clarity are what he offers. So, you need to be introspective and be honest with yourself first.
You have to be totally clear on what you’re going to offer and what will your approach be. Some might prefer that the course be straightforward and fast-paced, whilst others might prefer it to be laidback with no fixed schedule. Your goal is to meet their needs.
It’s true that there are many great resources out there for free. But if you aren’t aware what suits you best, then you’ll end up wasting time and money on poorly chosen online courses. Try looking for guitar tutors who can customise and adjust for you.
What does my customer want first? Since there are different kinds of learners, gauge how your student responds first.
Since they aren’t face-to-face classes, there will certainly be different challenges. You want the same great results but with a different approach. Brainstorm and do your research. Chances are there are already guitar experts who have done online courses before. Know what worked and what didn’t work.

BEST MOMENTS

“The course can’t be for everyone.”
“What do they want most? Mostly, it’s fun and freedom to get up and play anything.”
“Remind them that insanity is doing things over and over again and expecting different results.”

VALUABLE RESOURCES

Listen to The Tutor Podcast on iTunes (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-tutor-podcast/id1369191372)!
- Build Your Online Course Week 1: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/build-your-online-course/id1369191372?i=1000477109724
- Course Planning Week 2: Who Am I? https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/build-your-online-course/id1369191372?i=1000477109724
Read the Weird Things Guitarists Do book by Neil Cowmeadow, which is available now on Amazon. Link - https://www.amazon.co.uk/Weird-Things-Guitarists-Do-Misconceptions/dp/1519026579/
Contact Neil via this website - NeilCowmeadow.com!

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

info@neilcowmeadow.com

Course Planning Week 2: Who Am I?

Sun, 14 Jun 2020 23:00:00 -0000

Welcome back to the second part of our discussion on building your online course! This special focuses on how to construct your course design templates.

But first, Neil discusses the most important thing before making any drafts—self-identity. Neil wants you to look inwards, and ask yourself: Who am I? This may seem useless for some, but it isn’t! You don’t want to be offering an online course that you don’t whole-heartedly know and want. He’ll be discussing this thoroughly, leaving no rocks unturned, so that you can also gain students even amid a crisis. There’s a list of essential questions you can jot down and use too, so tune in to The Tutor Podcast today!

If you have missed the first part of this special, then make sure you go back to the previous episode to ensure you gain all the knowledge you need.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Your self-identity must be at the very heart of crafting a course. As an educator, it’s your voice (literally or figuratively speaking) that they’re paying attention to. It won’t be easy to teach and impart value if, in the first place, you have attracted the wrong people. Be clear about what you want.
What can you benefit from the courses you’re about build and put out?
- Impart value to others
- Generate leads
- Position yourself as an expert
- Increase sales
- Attract your target demographic
What value are you going to deliver to your customers? Know your forte, and never stop learning about it. This ensures that the knowledge you impart to your students is of prime quality. Always aim high, as they say.
What difference can you make to your customers? For Neil, he wants music to be fun and simple. Not as technical and theoretical or not as freeform as other tutors. Just the right amount, depending on the student’s capability and pace too.
What is your strongest reason for creating your course? Neil: It’s to reach more and more people. It might be slightly different from everyone else’s. But the increased engagement is one of the benefits you’ll get from publishing your courses.
What ‘special ingredient’ can you add to all these that you’ll serve? To put this simply, it isn’t just your brains and talent you need for this to work. You need to connect with them first. For Neil, it’s his humour and wits that contributes to his successes.
What results do you want? Do you want them to have a fresh perspective on something? Do you want to just polish whatever talent they have already? Do you want them to want to take the next course with you too? It’s up to you!

BEST MOMENTS

“I’m a coach who’s helping people, and reaching back from where I am to help people forward to get where they want to be with the instrument.”
“It’s important for me to get it done, to prove that limitation is entirely fictitious.”
“It’s okay to have fun and to enjoy yourself… That’s the big result that my superpower can make.”

VALUABLE RESOURCES

Listen to The Tutor Podcast on iTunes (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-tutor-podcast/id1369191372)!
Read the Weird Things Guitarists Do book by Neil Cowmeadow, which is available now on Amazon. Link - https://www.amazon.co.uk/Weird-Things-Guitarists-Do-Misconceptions/dp/1519026579/
Contact Neil via this website - NeilCowmeadow.com!

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

info@neilcowmeadow.com

Build Your Online Course

Sun, 07 Jun 2020 23:00:00 -0000

Sow the seeds today, then harvest the fruits of your labour tomorrow!

In this episode of The Tutor Podcast, Neil gives a step-by-step process on how you can build your online courses. People right now are looking for ways to cope amid the coronavirus pandemic. Why don’t you offer them your knowledge and expertise on guitar playing (or whatever you want!) instead? Start laying out your courses now. Learn some useful strategies from Neil when you listen in today. You’ll be helping someone in no time!

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Start building and producing your online courses right now. If you have already established your credibility then you have an advantage as people will come looking for you. But if you’re just starting, it’s best you manage your expectations, it will take time and effort building up your following.
You’ll need a lot of patience if you want to see significant results from the content you post. These are little treasures waiting to be opened by the ones who need it. It doesn’t get deleted, and it doesn’t get lost. You’ll just have to update it from time to time.
Do multiple online guitar courses. Portion them; write about sub-niches that you are very knowledgeable of. It’s better if you concentrate on a funnelled down topic since there’s already a plethora of resources available online for the mainstream ones.
The best thing about this is it can be a passive means of an income stream, you can earn more if you create better quality content. This has been perfect for Neil since it expands reach. Whilst he teaches inside the classroom, he also assists self-study students online through his lessons.

BEST MOMENTS

“Once you’ve built an intellectual property, and it starts to generate money for you, you’ll realise it’s an asset.”
“I can reach out to people who can’t get to me whenever and wherever I want.”
“All you haven’t written yet…it can be paying you for years.”

VALUABLE RESOURCES

Listen to The Tutor Podcast on iTunes (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-tutor-podcast/id1369191372)!
Read the Weird Things Guitarists Do book by Neil Cowmeadow, which is available now on Amazon. Link - https://www.amazon.co.uk/Weird-Things-Guitarists-Do-Misconceptions/dp/1519026579/
Contact Neil via this website - NeilCowmeadow.com!

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

info@neilcowmeadow.com

Accountability Partners and Invisible Friends

Sun, 31 May 2020 23:00:00 -0000

Which of your definitive goals have you not yet achieved?

It’s difficult to keep track of deadlines or give your high performance for every single task when there’s a lot on your plate. Sometimes, you’ll need to sound the alarm and just ask for help. In this episode of The Tutor Podcast, Neil talks about the benefits of having accountability partners and invisible friends.

Yes, that’s right. Even amid the lockdown caused by the coronavirus, you can still find someone who can help you keep on track. You’ll just have to do meetings virtually to make sure that both of you are being accountable for what you are doing. Listen in to know more about this today!

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Get yourself an accountability buddy. For some, it's difficult to stay on track when they do things alone. Find a trusted friend or colleague who can keep you motivated and responsible. Better if he/she is someone you’re comfortable with so there is no pressure.
- Take note: an accountability buddy differs from a mentor. Your accountability buddy should be most likely on the same level or journey as you. He/she will act as neutral support.
Maintain the symbiotic relationship. Meaning, give, and take. Remember that both parties should benefit from this partnership. Availability is also important; it should be easy for both of you to consult each other once in a while.
- Sending them messages through email or SMS from time to time also shows that you care, aside from serving as a reminder.
Neil, himself, admits that he needs an accountability partner. It’s always easier to slack, so his accountability buddy helps him avoid this from happening. Neil has to report to his partner regularly (i.e. monthly), and his partner assesses. If he sees that some tasks weren’t checked, then they go back to the planning board to keep Neil on track, again.
If you’re thinking of looking for an accountability buddy amid the coronavirus pandemic, then go, it’s possible. Jot down first the qualities and benefits you want from them. When you already know who you want, then it’s time to interview prospective partners. Make sure you are also the one they’re looking for since it’s a two-way process!

BEST MOMENTS

“Find someone you like and trust, not someone you’re in competition with.”
“This is a two-way street… It’s a back and forth all the time.”
“Having someone who’s also an entrepreneur and on the same journey as you… is encouraging and serves as a great support mechanism.”
“Anytime you have a deadline and a level of expected performance, it holds you to account.”

VALUABLE RESOURCES

Listen to The Tutor Podcast on iTunes (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-tutor-podcast/id1369191372)!
Read the Weird Things Guitarists Do book by Neil Cowmeadow, which is available now on Amazon. Link - https://www.amazon.co.uk/Weird-Things-Guitarists-Do-Misconceptions/dp/1519026579/
Contact Neil via this website - NeilCowmeadow.com!

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

info@neilcowmeadow.com

Steal From Everyone

Sun, 24 May 2020 23:00:00 -0000

Well, not literally! What we mean by ‘steal from everyone’ is get ideas and learn from EVERYONE. (Emphasis on the word everyone!)

In this episode of The Tutor Podcast, we learn about the importance of learning in and out of a classroom. Sometimes, when we set our goals and lay down our paths we’ll walk on, we refuse to see the benefits of having to explore other paths. The truth is, there are many things you can learn from other fields, from everyone. Don’t be a snub. Diversions are fine, as long as we gain recent knowledge. Neil also discusses on how you can strengthen your tutor-student relationships, so tune in!

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Learning doesn’t stop once you leave formal education. This should be the time you become intentional in looking for ways to widen your knowledge more and broaden your skill set. Since there’s a chance you’ll stagnate or even forget all you’ve studied about.
- You should also see this as an opportunity to explore things outside of your field. Take guitar lessons, for instance.
When Neil teaches, he notes all his students’ opinions, feedback, or critiques. Some may feel offended. But learning is a two-way process—a tutor must not be threatened by such. Why dismiss an idea that can improve your (teacher-student) relationship and yourself too?
There are things outside your field/industry that may also help you advance in your own career.
- For example, for guitar tutors, a little knowledge on kinesiology, human behaviour, or even storytelling can make an enormous difference. The dynamics inside the classroom will change.
Always aim to be better than who you are today. Keep progressing. Make use of the resources and tools—podcasts, books, workshops, and so on. There will always be something new you’ll learn once you utilise those.
- Theories, ideas, views, etc. are also changing. You need to be updated.

BEST MOMENTS

“Nobody has a monopoly on knowledge.”
“The wider my view is for my world, the more I can look around for useful knowledge and insights bring back to what I’m doing.”
“We know what we know, but we don’t know what we don’t know.”
“Basically, I just know my stuff. As far as I know, for my students, it makes me much more credible and more valuable in their eyes.”
“I tell my students, ‘Everything you learn from me will ripple out to all aspects of your life.’”
“Learn more, earn more!”

VALUABLE RESOURCES

Listen to The Tutor Podcast on iTunes (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-tutor-podcast/id1369191372)!
Read the Weird Things Guitarists Do book by Neil Cowmeadow which is available now on Amazon. Link - https://www.amazon.co.uk/Weird-Things-Guitarists-Do-Misconceptions/dp/1519026579/
Contact Neil via this website - NeilCowmeadow.com!

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

info@neilcowmeadow.com

Hard Truths and Relationships

Sun, 17 May 2020 23:00:00 -0000

Live your life YOUR way. It is only you who holds the wheel, and not anyone else. If you are controlled by others, then most likely, you’ll be confused where you should go.

In this episode of The Tutor Podcast, Neil gives some useful survival tips for aspiring entrepreneurs, not just applicable for those in the tutoring business but also for those in different industries.

It’s always the same problem that entrepreneurs face at the beginning—it’s having no time anymore for nurturing their relationships. The truth is… you have to accept that there will be people who will stay and people who won’t. So how do you determine who they are exactly in your life, you ask? Let Neil help you get some answers today when you listen in.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Do something rewarding. If watching the television all day is what you see as the best use of your time, then you need to change something in your life. Successful entrepreneurs like using their time productively. As much as possible, they want to work all the time. But the key here is to achieve work-life balance, so you don’t burn out.
A workaholic entrepreneur might sever a few relationships too. Some connections are worth saving while others aren’t. There are people who’d wish that you bring back the ‘old’ you, who you were before you were an entrepreneur. But things change. It might be difficult, but these are people you should keep a distance with.
- Though it’s true, that things will change when your priorities come clear to you, make sure also that you nurture the relationships you value.
To achieve your dreams, there are things you need to sacrifice. A day of golfing with colleagues, your Sunday brunch with extended family, or the usual pub hangouts, will be hard to fit in a busy entrepreneur’s schedule. An understanding person will understand such changes in your life; remember that.
Survival Tips For Aspiring Entrepreneurs:
- It’s your life. Nobody can live it for you.
- Nobody cares about what you do.
- Listen out for flattery in disguise.
- Listen to the language.
- Solitude is not loneliness.
- Be hard to reach. Get your mobile phones and other technologies that distract you out of sight.
- Be visible. Stay in contact with business stockholders.
- Whatever you do, you will be judged. So just be yourself.

BEST MOMENTS

“Don’t consume your life doing unhappy things.”
“All I want to do is get back to doing to what I love the most, teaching, playing guitar, and building a business.”
“As an entrepreneur, you don’t fit the old story of who you are.”
“Life is not a popularity contest.”
“You have to be comfortable with yourself to enjoy silence.”

VALUABLE RESOURCES

Listen to The Tutor Podcast on iTunes (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-tutor-podcast/id1369191372)!
Read the Weird Things Guitarists Do book by Neil Cowmeadow which is available now on Amazon. Link - https://www.amazon.co.uk/Weird-Things-Guitarists-Do-Misconceptions/dp/1519026579/
Contact Neil via this website - NeilCowmeadow.com!

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

info@neilcowmeadow.com

How to manage your time and income streams effectively

Sun, 10 May 2020 23:00:00 -0000

Are you having a tough time managing your schedule lately?

If some of you are having a eureka moment about money-making ideas, and not knowing when to do it and where to fit it in your schedule, then you need to know about the 70:20:10 model.

In this episode of The Tutor Podcast, Neil shares how he uses this model to his advantage as a teacher, a property investor, and a music creator. It’s a matter of organisation and discipline. Easy-peasy, right? According to Neil, the only trick after learning about this concept is to JUST DO IT!

Tune in now to know more about how you can divide your time among your activities.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

The trick is to figure out how much time you allot for work, business, or anything else, really. Divide them into three using the 70:20:10 model. The 70% division belongs to the core tasks, the 20% is for the secondary ones, and the 10% for the upcoming tasks. You’ll have to remove the time you allot for rest and leisure, just so you know.
For Neil, the 70% of it is allotted to his foundational activity. It’s guitar teaching that is his ultimate passion and also his major income stream. He still does this most of the time, even today, amid the coronavirus pandemic.
Another thing is he creates content (blogs, videos, articles, etc.), markets them, then tries to engage with every prospect (i.e. students). He believes that if there is enough of his quality content out there posted, then this can give him a passive income. This can help him move on to the 20% and 10% activities.
The 20% of Neil’s activity is allotted to building and growing his property portfolio. This also acts as another stream of income. Tasks for this involve property maintenance, finance, budgeting, and looking for investors.
Since he’s a guitar teacher, he also creates music. This is the 10% division. He writes, composes, and records. He’s got a million ideas, and he needs to transform it into something valuable.

BEST MOMENTS

“If I can make the fun things that I get paid for more fun than the things I don’t get paid for, then working 7 days a week should be a no-brainer!”
“It’s very risky to have one income stream.”
“If you use it, it’s gonna work.”
“Having only one income stream leaves you very vulnerable.”

VALUABLE RESOURCES

Listen to The Tutor Podcast on iTunes (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-tutor-podcast/id1369191372)!
Read the Weird Things Guitarists Do book by Neil Cowmeadow which is available now on Amazon. Link - https://www.amazon.co.uk/Weird-Things-Guitarists-Do-Misconceptions/dp/1519026579/
Contact Neil via this website - Neilcowmeadow.com!

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

info@neilcowmeadow.com

Surviving Lockdown Tips

Sun, 03 May 2020 23:00:00 -0000

We all know how stressful life has become during this coronavirus pandemic, so in this episode of The Tutor Podcast, Neil lets you have a peek on his own list of surviving lockdown tips!

The top priority is to keep your (physical and mental) health always in check. For Neil, having a routine helps. But since movement is very limited, Neil suggests ways on how you can tweak it. If you think there is no other way around how you can get yourself to sweat, well, let Neil prove otherwise!

Neil also gives tips on how you can improve yourself and grow your business. There’s so much time made available to you right now. Be productive. Join in the discussion now.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Have a plan set for each day. This forces you to envision having wonderful days. We aim for worthwhile activities when we detail our routine. We automatically don’t include something that we deem as a ‘failure’ or ‘pointless’.
Move more. Since most work from home is sedentary, you need to take minor breaks to get your muscles moving. Walk around the room, do simple gym-free workouts, or even do some chores.
Keep communication channels open.
- If you live with someone else, it may become stressful. It’s important to talk about your feelings and set some rules.
- If you’re feeling lonely, reach out to your friends. There are a lot of video calling applications out there that you can utilise.
Check your food consumption. Most of us have limited outside access, the gym and sports facilities where we usually do physical activities are closed. We can neglect our health and fitness. For food, Neil advises that you keep a grocery list that ONLY has healthy foods.
Get rid of old unpleasant habits.
Remove triggers for negative behaviours to make this task easier for yourself. To get used to good habits you’re trying to incorporate, it’s better to associate them with pre-existing pleasant ones.
Add new streams of income. If you have promising content in your backlogs, you can repurpose it. Now’s the time to market any extra content online as social media usage is at an all-time high
Learn unfamiliar things. There have been many resources made available for free online lately due to the coronavirus. Maybe it’s time to try them out.

BEST MOMENTS

“I have observed that society is fragmenting, people have turned against one another… it’s very sinister.”
“The best defence is to have a plan every single day.”
“It’s now easier than ever to get healthy. It’s easier to get healthy food than to get a crappy Big Mac.”
“Learn voraciously and insatiably.”
“Keep on moving in the direction you want to go.”

VALUABLE RESOURCES

Listen to The Tutor Podcast on iTunes (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-tutor-podcast/id1369191372)!
Read the Weird Things Guitarists Do book by Neil Cowmeadow which is available now on Amazon. Link - https://www.amazon.co.uk/Weird-Things-Guitarists-Do-Misconceptions/dp/1519026579/
Contact Neil via this website - Neilcowmeadow.com!

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

info@neilcowmeadow.com

How to Create Incremental Change!

Sun, 26 Apr 2020 23:00:00 -0000

In this episode of The Tutor Podcast, Neil explores how you can redefine your ‘normal’ and set your trajectory in a positive direction during this unprecedented time. Neil talks about his experiences setting up new online coaching so that he can coach his students over the internet using streaming and video calling technology.

Neil focuses on adding or changing 1% of your lifestyle or business every day, create incremental change to better your productivity and success in the long term. Neil also explores the theory of the ‘Locus of control’ and how it dictates how we react in these stressful times.

You are the creator of your own reality! Take control and change your lifestyle to unlock your potential!

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

info@neilcowmeadow.com

The Brutal Two List Model of Warren Buffet

Sun, 19 Apr 2020 23:00:00 -0000

In this episode of The Tutor Podcast, Neil discussed Warrant Buffet’s Two List Model. The first list is the top 5 things that YOU can DO that will change your life. The second list is for everything else that you want to do. You should then discard the second list and primarily focus on the first 5 and most important ways that you can improve your life. This will give you CLARITY and give your life a mission statement. Neil gives his take on these lists, laying out the ways that he wishes to enrich and improve his life. He then gives his opinion on the Warren Buffet’s model, explaining how it has the potential to change your life and mindset.

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

info@neilcowmeadow.com

Covid-19 Government Support and Advice

Sun, 12 Apr 2020 23:00:00 -0000

The UK government is giving out financial aid to small businesses, but do tutors who manage their businesses from their own homes get some? It depends. If you pay business rates, then you can receive from the Small Business Relief Fund.

In this episode, Neil discusses more on what sole proprietors like him are facing amid the COVID-19 outbreak. The government has forgotten about hardworking educators. But not only them, several workers too are getting furloughed because of the current situation. Start learning on what does this mean for you, when you tune in.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

When you’re in furlough, you aren’t paid. You might get payment for an invoice on something that you’ve done before that, but not during the furlough period. The minimum time to be furloughed is 3 weeks. You must change your status if you want take on a job/task.
Question and Answer:
- What type of task can I give to my employee that’s in furlough? Nothing. Not even a single sales phone call or email.
- Can a furloughed employee look for another job? Yes. BUT it should be treated as an unauthorized unpaid leave by your current employer.
All eligible businesses in England, who pay business rates, can receive a £10000 payment under the Small Business Relief Fund. So, if you aren’t eligible, just like Neil, a tutor who works from home, you won’t receive any.
For employers, ensure that the employees who work from home have the capacity and the equipment needed. Some aren’t capable of working from home because of their economic status. Note that the government allows people to travel for work, given that they don’t show coronavirus symptoms.

BEST MOMENTS

“When furlough directors need to carry out particular duties to fulfil statute obligations that they owe to their company, they can do that. But they must do no more than they’d be reasonably judged necessary for the purpose.”
“The government does not recognise the vast number of sole proprietors and sole practitioners.”
“Employers and employees should discuss working arrangements. And employers should take every step to facilitate.”

VALUABLE RESOURCES

Listen to The Tutor Podcast on iTunes (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-tutor-podcast/id1369191372)!
Read the Weird Things Guitarists Do book by Neil Cowmeadow which is available now on Amazon. Link - https://www.amazon.co.uk/Weird-Things-Guitarists-Do-Misconceptions/dp/1519026579/
Contact Neil via this website - Neilcowmeadow.com!

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

info@neilcowmeadow.com

Change or Die

Sun, 29 Mar 2020 23:00:00 -0000

“It’s a catalyst to action. That’s what we have now.”

More than half of the world right now are feeling the impact of the Covid-19 outbreak. The pandemic has caused delay in our businesses, our daily routines, and most definitely, the help we give to other people.

There are a thousand ways you can help. (And they really weren’t kidding when they said that.) Surely, we can find alternatives, even at the middle of the quarantine situation. For educators, teachers, and tutors, maybe now is the time that we create or repurpose our content to online videos? Or online courses?

Neil discusses more on how you can keep it going amid the Covid-19 outbreak, so tune in to the latest episode of The Tutor Podcast.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Keep on helping people. Choosing to better yourself must not stop, even in quarantine. If you can teach and give them the resources they can consume during this time, go for it.
Keep your routine going. Have a list of the things that need to be done, and schedule them. It’s more difficult now to follow your usual routine because you’re just staying at home. Remove distractions. Find alternatives for the parts that you usually do outside (i.e. running).
The business goes on. You can continue delivering your services. If you can’t teach face-to-face, look into webchats, online courses, etc. Once you’ve recorded yourself teaching and posted it online, you now also have content that can gain traction whenever.
Think of ANY thing you can do to keep the momentum going. You can change your ways on how to create or even repurpose your existing content. Just ensure you are being smart and responsible considering the current situation.
If there’s a system in place, then you shouldn’t feel threatened whatever problems may arise. You’ll surely survive during and after a crisis if there’s a consistent flow of work and income. Start acting now.

BEST MOMENTS

“If you don’t believe in yourself, you’re up a creek.”
“We need to preserve some self-control, because so much now is being taken away in terms of our freedom and movements.”
“If we can keep heling others, we can help ourselves.”
“This is the moment for growth and scale.”

VALUABLE RESOURCES

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

info@neilcowmeadow.com

Interesting Times...

Mon, 23 Mar 2020 00:00:00 -0000

This time on The Property Tutor Podcast, Neil gives his take on Covid-19. He discusses how it has affected businesses, with some already going into administration and others hanging on by the skin of their teeth. Neil gives sound advice on how to deal with your mental health and business problems, as well as giving ideas on how your business can survive Covid-19 through digital distribution.

Above all, Neil looks for the ‘Opportunity in the Crisis’, to capitalise on Covid-19 to come up with creative solutions that benefit us all. He talks about his own personal near-death experience and how he learned first-hand to create income in a difficult time.

VALUABLE RESOURCES

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

info@neilcowmeadow.com

Larks, Owls, Cows & Vampires

Mon, 16 Mar 2020 00:00:00 -0000

There are four types of people: Larks, Owls, Cows and Vampires.

By working out which one you are, you can manage your life in order to fit your natural tendencies. But which one are you?

In this week’s show, Neil takes you through each type in his own unique way, and tells you all about how you can achieve a far happier existence by applying a simple rule: To know and understand yourself is to manage and master yourself.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Larks - The annoying types who wake up very early, full of energy and bounce and ready to take on the world.
Owls - These are the opposite to larks. They tend to take all day to get going, but can work well into the night.
Cows - Most of society stick to a regimented form of workday, finishing in the early evening and grabbing a few hours for themselves before going to sleep, so that they can do it all again the next day.
Vampires - Those “nocturnal beasts” who do their best work during the wee hours, when the rest of the world is asleep.
The Oracle Of Delphi had an inscription upon entering which read “Know Thyself”. This feeds into an invaluable lesson in life, that to know and understand yourself, is truly the best way to manage and master yourself.
When transitioning between careers that had starkly different working times, Neil was told to diarise his day in order to identify where he was falling short. Through this process, Neil realised that his life was suffering a hangover from his previous life as a “vampire”. By making adjustments, he was able to make himself more effective in the daytime.
By knowing the kind of creature you are, you can make sure that you’re doing your best work at the optimal time, and thereby making the most of yourself.
Develop your own routine, and build it around your rest periods and the times of day in which you have the most energy, and produce the best results.
Working for yourself allows you to really develop the best template for your working day. Don’t assume that just because your daytime is free, that you’ll do your best work there. Perhaps you could do something more productive, so plan ahead.

BEST MOMENTS

‘I hate ‘em…'

‘I reckon I’m at least 51% vampire’

‘Bit of a pattern developing there, guys…'

’The casino business had pressed me into the ranks of the undead!’

‘It doesn’t matter if you’re a lark, an owl, a cow or a vampire. You can tailor your life to fit you'

VALUABLE RESOURCES

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

info@neilcowmeadow.com

Self Sabotage

Mon, 09 Mar 2020 00:00:00 -0000

105TTP Self Sabotage & Being Calibrated Perfectly

DESCRIPTION

‘It’s all about calibration – we work perfectly, but if we are mis-calibrated we’ll work perfectly in pursuit of the wrong thing’

In this fascinating episode, Neil explains how self-sabotaging behaviours can be conquered if you are aware of the behaviours and take action to change them.

The key is our own perception of normal and the story we have for ourselves, the inner voice that always seeks to return us to our own ‘normal’.

If you want to bring your story into your reality and make choices that will drive you forward then listen in.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Sabotage is defined as any deliberate action aimed at undermining or impeding the progress of a person or organization.
Often it is voiced as a misunderstanding and rationalised in some way.
If you are your own saboteur, you are potentially taking actions that could cost you time, money and impact on the relationships you have.
Self-sabotage is linked to how we feel and what we perceive as normal.
If things are going well and exceeding expectations people will self-sabotage to bring things back to what they perceive as normal – often a lower level because that’s where they feel they deserve to be.
The same self-sabotage is in action when the situation is below expectations.
We are our own worst enemies, and we are our own greatest assets.
At the time of self-sabotage, you will justify almost any of the actions you take.

Changing

Becoming aware is vital – when you are about to do something self-sabotaging ask yourself;
Is this what my business is really all about?
Is this helping me, or is this hurting me?
You must be honest with yourself because the easiest person to fool is yourself.

Prevention

Schedule regular time slots to analyse what you do and reflect and review your actions, it will help you stay on track.
Update the stories you tell yourself as these have a habit of coming true. Your inner narrative should be constantly evolving as you do to provide the clarity you need.
Calibrate your own stories: tell yourself better lies and start living in accord with them
Check your progress honestly, eliminating what doesn’t help you and focussing on what you need to do to bring your story into reality.

BEST MOMENTS

‘It can be easy to be lured into doing daft stuff that won’t help you’

‘Our inborn tendency to stay true to whatever lies/stories we tell ourselves’

‘We’ll unconsciously act to exert control and restore the situation to whatever our idea of normal should be’

VALUABLE RESOURCES

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

info@neilcowmeadow.com

Quality Problems

Mon, 02 Mar 2020 00:00:00 -0000

In this episode Neil explains how you can turn your problems into positives and how a problem can not necessarily be a problem. He discusses how problems can depend on the perspective and mind-set that you have on a particular issue.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Whatever the problem is that you’re facing, ask yourself what is the reality? It’s all malleable and you might find that it’s not a problem.
Where is the opportunity in the problem to find the positives? Some problems are great problems to have because you can choose how you frame the problem.
Facts are facts but your perspective on those facts will determine whether the problem is actually a problem.
Can you use the problem to motivate you to do something positive for yourself?
If you can control the mind and its perspective, then you can turn problems into positives.
Always question the reality when you face a problem and shift your perspective.

BEST MOMENTS

‘When is a problem not a problem?’

‘Situations are just situations’

‘Seize every opportunity you have’

VALUABLE RESOURCES

The Tutor Podcast on Twitter: https://twitter.com/tutorpodcast

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

Neil Cowmeadow

info@neilcowmeadow.com

Social Media - Free Mega Marketing Opportunity, or Black Hole of Time

Mon, 24 Feb 2020 00:00:00 -0000

Some very high-profile people have made excellent use of social media to position themselves as experts and to develop a personal brand – and that’s SM being used as a valid strategy and a powerful marketing tool. It helps if you are young, female and good-looking. In this episode Neil discusses how you can use social media to grow your business.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

We can all learn from their examples if we want to “big ourselves up” and be more visible. SM reaches countless people, so it should be possible to construct a following for yourself, regardless of what niche you are operating in.
You have to be very consistent for a very long time to grow your tribe, but it’s doable. You’ll be posting regularly and often, dealing with fans and trolls – lovers and haters.
Weigh up the pros of doing lots of SM – then consider the Cons.
Social media is a really big deal to a lot of people – we, as tutors need to decide whether we want it to be a big deal for us. Use social media going to give you a commercial advantage or marketing edge
There is way more people consuming content on SM than there are producing it – so the chances are that you will be a consumer rather than a producer. That time could be better spent face to face with clients, marketing, developing IP such as music, writing, courses and so on.

BEST MOMENTS

‘Everything has up/downsides’

‘Getting sucked in to the YouTube vortex is – for me – the kiss of death.’

‘SM is a gold mine, but for the vast majority it is a black hole.’

VALUABLE RESOURCES

The Tutor Podcast on Twitter: https://twitter.com/tutorpodcast

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

Neil Cowmeadow

info@neilcowmeadow.com

Know Your Numbers

Mon, 17 Feb 2020 00:00:00 -0000

What are the most important numbers for your business?

Knowing your numbers is key to knowing whether your business is going to work for you.

Being good at something doesn’t necessarily mean you can turn it into a successful business unless you know your numbers.

Neil takes an in-depth look at the numbers in your business helping anyone who has a tutoring business to understand what and how they can have a truly successful business doing what they love

KEY TAKEAWAYS

As tutors, business isn’t usually an area of special knowledge

There is a focus on the technical skills and knowledge needed to teach and the necessary business skills may be neglected.

What are the most important numbers for your business?

It’s not how much money you bring in to your business it’s what there is after you’ve paid for everything.

There are two variables that generate profit - sales and costs

Sales are generated through;

Teaching fees

Product sales

Royalties & commissions

Investment incomes

Anything else that brings money into the business

Costs are incurred through;

Wages

Cost of goods and materials (sheet music, strings, etc)

Equipment purchase/leasing/rental

Travel – motor use/trains/planes/hotels/food

Rent, rates and other property expenses: fuel gas, electricity, insurance etc

Everything else that is vital to the running of the business and which takes money out of the business.

Until you understand and know what your numbers really are, you don’t really know if you have a viable business.

Without the numbers, you can’t assess where you are.

You have no baseline to and cannot measure the effect of any changes you may make to how you run your business.

How can you increase your revenue?

Think about it – could you:increase your customer base, Raise your fee rate,Increase the frequency of sales

How can you reduce your costs?

Look at all your costs – the fixed costs, and the variable costs of doing business

Fixed costs don’t vary with the amount of work done – rent, fixed salaries etc

Variable costs depend on the amount of work done – e.g. cost of travel to a client’s location

You have the control to raise your income and reduce your costs if you understand the numbers in your business.

Get the clarity you need on your numbers and then you can move your business forward and make more money.

BEST MOMENTS

‘It’s easy to confuse our excellence and specific technical skills with having a good business, but they’re very different things.

‘Turnover is vanity, profit is sanity’

VALUABLE RESOURCES

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

info@neilcowmeadow.com

Time & Trust

Mon, 10 Feb 2020 00:00:00 -0000

Neil has been thinking about time and its value and explains the importance of punctuality and respect for time in relation to your tutor business and to life in this episode.

We all have people in our lives who are punctual and also those who are consistently late and Neil explains how our punctuality or lack of is woven into the respect and the trust we have with others.

A lack of punctuality gives permission for others to mess you around whilst punctuality and consistency are the hallmarks of excellence – listen in and find out how you can respect both yourself and others through the way you manage your time.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Not only do you have to respect your own time but you must also respect the time of others.
If you don’t respect their time they won’t respect yours.
Always be punctual and consistently on time. Consistency is the hallmark of excellence
Punctual people are more likely to be perceived as trustworthy as opposed to those who show up late and are seen as unpredictable.
Punctual people do better than people who are late because they get more respect.
Punctual people earn more money because they command more trust and respect, It automatically positions them as experts.
People who show up on time get more referrals as people won’t recommend someone who doesn’t show up on time.
When you make it easy to deal with you, your students will back for longer.
When you are punctual, reliable and consistent you are automatically perceived as having everything together in your life.
The 3-step formula for earning extra credibility, respect and ultimately higher fees just by being punctual are;
Show up on time and leave on time (don’t give the impression you have nothing else to do with your time)
Show up prepared have everything you need and in working order
Deliver a kick-arse content that is fun for your students and for you.

BEST MOMENTS

‘Because I’m always on time my tribe is always on time’

‘If you are consistent and punctual then your tribe will love you’

‘There are only so many hours in the day so I put a start and end time on everything’

VALUABLE RESOURCES

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

info@neilcowmeadow.com

Reflection And Self-Honesty

Mon, 03 Feb 2020 00:00:00 -0000

You can wake up 2,3, or 5 years down the line and wonder what has happened and where the time went. This is particularly common to driven personalities and entrepreneurs who are immersed in their work, have a strong inner compass, determined action takers and some might say obsessed.

Neil explains an easy method for how you can avoid this from happening.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Check your progress every couple of months. A good way to do this is to have accountability days every month to check the performance of the business and work on the next acquisition or deal.
Spend the whole of that day examining your business – get away from your desk and turn the phone off. If it’s urgent they’ll call back
Make a date with yourself to do this regularly – in your diary – don’t let anything shunt it off your schedule, because it matters too much to let it slide.
When you’ve done your reflection analysis – make your plans to implement what you noticed about your business.
Do it, and see how you get on – I’m pretty certain that you’ll have an “A-ha!” moment or six when you do the work and get honest with yourself – I know I did!

BEST MOMENTS

‘Planning and reflection works’

‘Bottom line is that this stuff works.’

VALUABLE RESOURCES

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

info@neilcowmeadow.com

The Ten Minute Problem Solving Technique

Mon, 27 Jan 2020 00:00:00 -0000

In this episode Neil shares an effective technique for solving problems without having to ask anyone else or search anywhere for answers.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

This podcast is the tens of thousands of hours spent learning my industry and within business all boiled down to bitesize episodes.
Have 10 minutes of uninterrupted time. No phone, no noise, no people or anything that can distract you.
Have a really nice pen and really nice paper or whatever you’d enjoy writing with the most.
At the top of the page write down the problem you have. Re read it and then write down as much as you can that pops into your head that may be helpful to overcome or solve this problem.
Write without stopping and don’t stop or have a break. Don’t worry about any punctuation or spelling, just get it down.
Often you already know the answer but the problem is hiding it.
The main thing about this exercise is not to self critic or try to be clever, just get your thoughts down regardless of whether it’s good or bad.

BEST MOMENTS

‘More important than all that cash is time investment’

‘Time is the most precious thing you have’

‘The more you do it, the better you get’

VALUABLE RESOURCES

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

info@neilcowmeadow.com

Crunch Time For Self Assessment

Mon, 20 Jan 2020 00:00:00 -0000

Doing your tax Self-Assessment can be stressful because it can get you flagged for investigation by HMRC, you can have fines for late filing, additional charges and interest for late payment and you’ve no idea about upcoming tax liabilities. You don’t even know if you really have a business. So in this episode Neil tells you how you can get on top of your business finances and stresses the importance of doing so.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Ensure you do your books and meet the deadline for your tax return so that you know you’re making money and don’t get fined.

Keeping proper accounts of where your business finances are, are bloody important part of being your own boss.
These days a book keeper isn’t necessary in order to keep on top of your books, use accounting software that can link to your bank and your phone.
The benefit of doing everything digitally is that it’s fast and easy to do which allows you to do what you do best.
It only takes 10 minutes a week to do your accounts, as long as you do it consistently and regularly. It’s also a lot better than leaving it all last minute.
If you leave everything last minute, then you’ll get stresses which will then have a negative impact on all other aspects of your business and even your personal life.

No matter how good you do your taxes, HMRC will find some way of fining you.
If the business part of you isn’t good, then you wont be able to sustain being a good tutor.

BEST MOMENTS

“Accounts are vital for your survival and to your success”

“There’s nothing mysteriously difficult about keeping your books in order”

“If your back office is a mess then it’s likely to spill over into other parts of your business”

“Business first then tutor”

VALUABLE RESOURCES

The Tutor Podcast on Twitter: https://twitter.com/tutorpodcast

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

Neil Cowmeadow

info@neilcowmeadow.com

Misfits And Mavericks

Mon, 13 Jan 2020 00:00:00 -0000

Neil explains the benefits of tutoring in the private sector and why teaching in the mainstream system may not be for you.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

The reasonable man adapts himself to the world, the unreasonable man persists to try adapt the world to himself, therefore all progress depends on the unreasonable man
The school teaching system for tutoring is boring and can give people itchy feet. If you’ve got a thought of your own, Ofsted is likely not to like it.
When you’re stuck teaching in the education system you’re limited to the amount of money you can make too.
Being a misfit from the mainstream can make you a winner. A lot of parents look for someone who makes learning fun.
No one wants a normal tutor.

BEST MOMENTS

“don’t teach all day mark all night”

“Creativeness and individualism is being squeezed out by the education system.”

“The mainstream system is ill”

VALUABLE RESOURCES

The Tutor Podcast on Twitter: https://twitter.com/tutorpodcast

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

Neil Cowmeadow

info@neilcowmeadow.com

Back on The Chaingang - Tax Time!

Mon, 06 Jan 2020 00:00:00 -0000

the self-employed. You can minimise your tax bill, just to let you know. So, instead of missing the deadline, start learning about the benefits of being proactive for paying taxes.

The self-employed people are at a better position in regard to taxation than the majority. Let’s do our responsibilities as citizens. Pay your taxes and sleep soundly at night.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

You’re only liable for tax on your profits, so make sure to:

Claim all allowances

Use of your own car for business
Use of part of your home for business
Investment reliefs

Account for all expenses (e.g. materials, equipment, marketing, etc.)
Ask accountant on how you can save tax. Your accountant should help you save on your taxes. If you think he/she doesn’t understand and help your situation, find a better one.
Don’t file late. You save up and earn more when you avoid fines! If you still don’t have the exact figures, use provisional (best estimate) figures.

Always plan. Know how you want your business to grow and where your finances will be. Neil assures you you can save mores on taxes when you’re on the right track.

BEST MOMENTS

“Don’t file late!”
“Tax code is not your area of expertise, it’s theirs (accountants). They’re working for you”
“Have a set day and time when you update your records and take care of business. It’s a pain, but it’s less of a pain than sweating over doing a year’s worth of your books at the last minute.”

VALUABLE RESOURCES

HMRC - https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/hm-revenue-customs

The Tutor Podcast on Twitter: https://twitter.com/tutorpodcast

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

Neil Cowmeadow

info@neilcowmeadow.com

Rethinking Resolutions

Mon, 30 Dec 2019 00:00:00 -0000

'Most new years resolutions last up until March as they're far too demanding.'

In this new year's special episode of the Tutor podcast, Neil explains how you can make your new year resolution more effective and long-lasting. He also explains why the resolutions and goals usually fail and how you can stop yourself from falling down the same pit!

And of course a very Happy new year!

VALUABLE RESOURCES

Atomic Habits – James Clear | Amazon https://amzn.to/37pfC7Z
The Power of Habit: Why We Do What We Do, and How to Change – Charles Duhigg | Amazon https://amzn.to/2O75SYN
Do More Great Work – Michael Bungay Stanier | Amazon https://amzn.to/2qlirXm
The Tutor Podcast on Twitter: https://twitter.com/tutorpodcast

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

Neil Cowmeadow

info@neilcowmeadow.com

Adult Students, The Fun Bunch

Mon, 23 Dec 2019 00:00:00 -0000

Neil explains the importance of using humour and fun in your lessons so that your students enjoy coming. Neil emphasises this for adult students even more than younger clients.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Often when a I receive calls it’s from someone who’s looking to book lessons for someone else. Usually when it’s an adult who wants lessons it’s someone who wants to relive the days when they used to play in a band or understand more etc...
Many other people do lessons after their kids have grown up that were on the back burner. However, it all boils down to one thing which is fun.
As teachers you need to make it fun, figure our ways to make it fun so that your student enjoys their lessons. Also if you don’t find it fun then your student will often mirror that from you.
Always praise progress and don’t be too harsh on them if they are going through a bad time in their lives and are struggling to play.
Use humour and stories in your lessons to make them more interesting and fun. If it’s fun for you, it’ll be fun for them.

BEST MOMENTS

‘It all boils down to fun’

‘There’s no such thing as a stupid question’

‘Bypass their limits and get them higher than they ever expected they would get’.

VALUABLE RESOURCES

Atomic Habits – James Clear | Amazon https://amzn.to/37pfC7Z
The Power of Habit: Why We Do What We Do, and How to Change – Charles Duhigg | Amazon https://amzn.to/2O75SYN
Do More Great Work – Michael Bungay Stanier | Amazon https://amzn.to/2qlirXm
The Tutor Podcast on Twitter: https://twitter.com/tutorpodcast

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

Neil Cowmeadow

info@neilcowmeadow.com

Design Your Own Life

Mon, 16 Dec 2019 00:00:00 -0000

“Never go a day without making at least the smallest amount of progress”

In this episode Neil discusses what some of the best things you can do whilst everyone is away for the Christmas holidays and you’re feeling a little low.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

If you are a bit like me and you feel a bit down because all of your friends are away and unavailable to play guitar together then it may be a good time to have some deep thoughts about who you want to be working with and where.
Think about how you want to live and reflect on your past year but be grateful for the present time. Then think about the future and plan for next year, the challenges you may face and the journey you want to take.
It’s easy to just avid all of the issues you may face but don’t leave them otherwise it’s likely for them to get worse. Start to work to make good things happen.
The purpose of my business is so important to me but it needs to deliver its purpose. Now is a great time to sit down, make a list and start doing the things you need to do in order to move forward.

BEST MOMENTS

‘Don’t just stick your head in the ground’

‘What are your values?’

‘The magic isn’t in the size of your actions but in the relentlessness of progress.’

‘If you love what you do then you’ll never work a day in your life’

VALUABLE RESOURCES

Atomic Habits – James Clear | Amazon https://amzn.to/37pfC7Z
The Power of Habit: Why We Do What We Do, and How to Change – Charles Duhigg | Amazon https://amzn.to/2O75SYN
Do More Great Work – Michael Bungay Stanier | Amazon https://amzn.to/2qlirXm
The Tutor Podcast on Twitter: https://twitter.com/tutorpodcast

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

Neil Cowmeadow

info@neilcowmeadow.com

My Lovely Leaky Bucket

Mon, 09 Dec 2019 00:00:00 -0000

I was having a coffee with my friend Katy last week – like me and you she’s a tutor, but she’s not currently tutoring anybody...her students have moved on and the phone has stopped ringing.

I explained how I advertise and market my guitar teaching business and how customers found me – all the real-world stuff and the online, too.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Out of sight is out of mind, and that’s one place we cannot afford to spend much time in.
Step forward: increase the number of people who know you in a positive way: Every person has a network of contacts, the more people who know you positively, the more chance you have of being mentioned to their network.
Your marketing system should provide you with a steady stream of students and clients at a cost far below their lifetime value to you and your business – preferably for free.
As business people we understand that nobody is coming to the rescue, so we are in charge of our own destinies – and we make it happen for ourselves. Don’t be squeamish about marketing and advertising, because all it is is putting the right service (us) in front of the right people (our tribe/demographic) and giving them the chance to say yes to what they really want and need.

BEST MOMENTS

'Book yourself Solid, observing your goals'

'You are your own USP'

'Pay the price – it’s a long game we’re in'

VALUABLE RESOURCES

Atomic Habits – James Clear | Amazon https://amzn.to/37pfC7Z
The Power of Habit: Why We Do What We Do, and How to Change – Charles Duhigg | Amazon https://amzn.to/2O75SYN
Do More Great Work – Michael Bungay Stanier | Amazon https://amzn.to/2qlirXm
The Tutor Podcast on Twitter: https://twitter.com/tutorpodcast

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

Neil Cowmeadow

info@neilcowmeadow.com

The Joy of Christmas, or Not....

Mon, 02 Dec 2019 00:00:00 -0000

In this episode, Neil explains why the festive period is a double-edged sword for people in the tutoring industry. He discusses how you can make the most of your time during Christmas and the new years break!

KEY TAKEAWAYS

There are lots of tutors who moan about being poor and don’t have enough money; these are the people who usually shut shop over the Christmas holidays.
When you close your business over Christmas and come back, you want your students to be excited to come back to your lessons. Some of your students may not come back though.
You could just go part time rather than completely shut down. This can be handy as it gives you the extra time over Christmas but also allows you to keep your students on through to the new year.
Don’t forget to remind your students 24 hours before their lesson after the new year.
If you’re choosing to carry on over the Christmas break, then as your current students if they want extra bookings which many of mine do. The fill the gaps with students that you have on your waiting list.
Gift cards for lessons are a great way to bring in extra income over the Christmas break. This is a great tool to bring more customers into your business too.

BEST MOMENTS

‘A special bar humbug from me’

‘Maintain as much momentum as you can’

‘Enjoy the downtime, maximise the rest.’

VALUABLE RESOURCES

Atomic Habits – James Clear | Amazon https://amzn.to/37pfC7Z
The Power of Habit: Why We Do What We Do, and How to Change – Charles Duhigg | Amazon https://amzn.to/2O75SYN
Do More Great Work – Michael Bungay Stanier | Amazon https://amzn.to/2qlirXm
The Tutor Podcast on Twitter: https://twitter.com/tutorpodcast

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

Neil Cowmeadow

info@neilcowmeadow.com

The Habit Upgrade!

Mon, 25 Nov 2019 00:00:00 -0000

“Habits are probably THE one thing that separate successful people from unsuccessful people, because what you do – day-to-day – is who you are. The real test of a person is what they do consistently.” – Neil Cowmeadow

In today’s episode of The Tutor Podcast, we dive deep in how to do a habit upgrade!

No successful person is happy about being stuck on version 1.0, right? As much as possible, we want to improve every time to be the best version of ourselves someday. So, in line with this, Neil shares a few useful strategies on how you can build the machineries of success, aka the ecosystem of habits. No need to perfect things. What makes a difference is when you become purposeful and upgrade things incrementally!

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Don’t try to be perfect. According to Voltaire, “The perfect is the enemy of the good.” You should be happy about how you improve continuously.
- Baby steps. Small changes add up and even compound one another, therefore bringing you much stable and fulfilling marginal gains.
Build an ecosystem of habits—the machinery of success. Again, don’t aim to be perfect through and through. Start out a little, then tweak now and then. Replace worn-out parts, lubricate, upgrade, and maintain the machinery of success.
Design the purpose (outcome, resources, location, and time). What outcome do you want? Where do you get the resources? Where will it happen? What will be the duration? When will it start?
Identify and write down critical factors. What are the non-negotiable things when you will incorporate a new habit? What old or current habit do you have that you want a new habit be attached?
- Piggybacking – doing habits simultaneously
- Tailgating – doing habits sequentially
Draw up a model week. Make a template. Designate slots for the non-negotiables (i.e. spending time with your family), for a technology detox, and for your habit blocks. In this way, you’re able to preserve your time and your availability is made aware to the surrounding people.
See how it goes for a month or two. Change immediately the obvious mistakes. Always test your model plan.
A person will always revert to their normal behaviour (habits) – reversion to the norm shows us who a person is, even who we are – habits are our norms, and we get to decide what they are - and we define ourselves.

BEST MOMENTS

“Whatever you are, wherever you are at the moment, start with what you got.”
“Ask yourself, ‘If I wasn’t already doing this, would I do it now’?”
“It’s easier to attach a new habit to something that’s already been a habit.”

VALUABLE RESOURCES

Atomic Habits – James Clear | Amazon https://amzn.to/37pfC7Z
The Power of Habit: Why We Do What We Do, and How to Change – Charles Duhigg | Amazon https://amzn.to/2O75SYN
Do More Great Work – Michael Bungay Stanier | Amazon https://amzn.to/2qlirXm
The Tutor Podcast on Twitter: https://twitter.com/tutorpodcast

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

Neil Cowmeadow

Unapologetic

Mon, 18 Nov 2019 00:00:00 -0000

Today Neil talks about being unapologetic and identifying yourself as an entrepreneur.

His tutoring business is all about infecting as many people as possible with his love affair with the guitar and making it as much fun for his students and himself as he can.

This means he’s working when everyone else is playing and that can be a problem, particularly for personal relationships and achieving a social life or sometimes just a life!

Being an entrepreneur is fundamentally different to what most people do and others can find it difficult to understand but what’s the point of doing less of what you love in order to do something you like less? There is great value and important advice for all entrepreneurs in this episode listen in now.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Because it’s your business and you are responsible for your own success or failure, you have to put your commitment into your students and your business ahead of any social activity.
You can’t be everywhere and do everything, you will have to make choices – and some of the people around you are not going to like your choices.
If you work hard in your business and love every minute of it, a lot of the people around you won’t understand, because it’s so far away from how life is for them.
It can be really tough to tell your wife, friends or your kids that you can’t do certain things because you’re working.
In some circumstances it can cost you a relationship, strain family ties – but you have to do it, because your business shouldn’t take second place.
Be discerning and selective about when you say “yes” and make “no” your default answer to anything which pulls you away from your vision, your business and your values.
Entrepreneurs are different they are impatient and want things done they are more positive with more alpha behaviours.
As an entrepreneur your energy is different, you have a different vibe and are from a different tribe.
What matters is spending more time face-to-face with your own tribe: your students, mentees, collaborators and fellow entrepreneurs – the people who get you
Take the time to be there for the people in your life who matter, when it matters – be discerning and remember your business has two main functions:
To make money for you
To allow you to live life on your own terms and manage your own time.

BEST MOMENTS

‘Faces tell stories and entrepreneurs have different more positive wrinkles’

‘Why are people so keen on holidays is it to escape an ordinary life? if you find your passion you won’t need a holiday’

‘Remember the golden rule - if it’s not fun don’t do it’

‘Dignity - I have zero tolerance for drunks. Having been one myself, I’m amazed to see people slosh down a load of booze and completely lose their dignity’

‘That’s why work/life balance is a crock, and why you shouldn’t fall for that loser’s limp.

VALUABLE RESOURCES

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

info@neilcowmeadow.com

The Money Talk

Mon, 11 Nov 2019 00:00:00 -0000

‘There are lots of opportunities around for us to make more and more money and the more we do it the easier it gets’

Neil is returning to the subject of money because how you think about money can have huge consequences for your business and your financial well-being.

If your belief systems around money aren’t helping you then they are hurting you and if

you don’t master what you think about money, success and wealth you’ll go with any ideas from any source.

The money talk is a conversation we should all have with ourselves on a regular basis and in this episode Neil shares how that conversation should go if you want to make your money work for you and grow.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Money is just a way of storing value and a great mechanism for exchanging value with very little effort and friction.
Money is the by-product of excellence and the best way to get more money is to become more valuable and get paid what you are worth because people won’t give you money if you are not worth anything.
If you haven’t already got one build yourself a money bucket and get started when that one’s up and running successfully then start another and fill it with more money.
There are basic rules to getting wealthy and like any sport, if you don’t know the rules you can’t take part in the game successfully or effectively.
There are lots of opportunities around for us to make more and more money and the more we do it the easier it gets
Bad debt is what you owe to pay for liabilities such as a car.
Good debt is what you owe to purchase money-making assets such as a mortgage on a rental property.
Good debt is a debt that costs you less than the income it permits you to generate.
Understand the difference between good and bad debt and put it to work for you.
Embrace the tax system – if you learn how the system works you can learn how to minimise how much you pay legally.
Don’t take money advice from someone who hasn’t got any money! Get around people who have money and it will rub off on you.
Value money and you’ll attract more to you, make a conscious choice to have or not have money.
When you have money use it for good by your own standards.
The money game is fascinating and fun. If you do it right the odds are in your favour if you blunder in uneducated the odds are against you but if you don’t get in the game you are at massive risk and cannot possibly win.

BEST MOMENTS

‘Set up a savings bank account and begin today’

‘It’s much easier than bartering and let’s face it you can’t put a pig in your wallet!’

‘Money in itself is neutral a resource that can be used for good or bad, it only amplifies who you are’

‘The nicest people I’ve ever met have all been wealthy people whilst at the other end of the social scale the skint people tend to be a lot less pleasant’

VALUABLE RESOURCES

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

info@neilcowmeadow.com

WonderVerbs for Teaching & Advertising

Mon, 04 Nov 2019 00:00:00 -0000

Neil explain how using WonderVerbs can boost your teaching to another level. In this episode Neil shares how intertwines WonderVerbs into his teaching and how you can too. Listen to this episode to find out more!

KEY TAKEAWAYS

The best way to include WonderVerbs into your teaching is to download them in PDF form, print them out then weave them into your lessons. You can find them on Neilcowmeadow.com
Always add to your verbs so that you don’t become stagnant. It’s always good to see how your students respond to new powerful words too.
Create different, better and stickier sentences so that they capture, intrigue and motivate your students.
Mucking about with language and stories can help when teaching as it keeps your lessons interesting.

BEST MOMENTS

‘Conger pictures and intrigue your students.’

‘Create sentences that revolve around your wonder words’.

‘Stumbling is a necessary stage.’

‘Don’t let your words be dull.’

VALUABLE RESOURCES

www.Neilcowmeadow.com/free

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

Two Ears – One Mouth?

Mon, 28 Oct 2019 00:00:00 -0000

Effective communication isn’t a one-way street. Listening is as much a part of effective communication as speaking, but what’s the best way to really listen to what’s being said?

If you’re in the business of tutoring, then it’s especially important to hear what’s being said and understand what’s going on, as by doing so we can decide on the best way of instructing our students.

In this special episode, Neil shares some of his wisdom on the best ways of spotting potential communication blocks, and how to deal with them.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Compliant responders work with you. They want to say yes, so go with it. Polar responders go against what you’re saying and often argue against what you’re suggesting.
By dropping your breath and allowing for pauses, you’ll force your student to mentally concentrate harder, as well as relax.
By adding the word “yet” to a statement of defeat such as “I can’t do that”, you’ll coerce them into mentally believing that any limitations are temporary.
Tricky procedures or difficult processes can always be surmounted by gradual improvement. You can make your way around any obstacle if you go slow enough.
Sometimes all that’s needed is a change of mental interpretation. If a student believes their fingers are slow and heavy, ask them to imagine that they’re swift and nimble. It’s a technique that often produces instant results.

BEST MOMENTS

’Surely they can’t mess THAT up!’

‘It’s all useful information’

‘You can eat an elephant eventually if you slice it up thin enough’

’Their words are windows to their minds'

VALUABLE RESOURCES

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

3 Legs of Persuasion

Sun, 20 Oct 2019 23:00:00 -0000

Weave these three strands into your tutoring and your self to become more persuasive and get people to trust you more. In this episode Neil explains what these 3 strands are and how you can apply them to your life.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

It’s not all necessarily about the knowledge you know that makes you a good teacher but it’s the way you communicate it across.
ETHOS: Establish yourself as credible before anything else. You can do this in the form of the way you physically dress, the terminology you use or your surroundings.
CAREOS: Display your ethos everywhere and show you’ve mastered the skill before you teach it.
PATHOS: This is any form of emotional response. As you weave in Pathos to your story you grab the attention of the audience. Sharing your emotional highs and lows makes you come across as more human.
LOGOS: This is any tangible research that supports your ideas. You can use statistics, data or facts. Until the audience knows your credible they wont believe in what you’re saying so use this to gain their trust.
If you don’t have Ethos your audience will be asking themselves why they should listen to you. Without Pathos your delivery will be dry and without Logos, your audience will think you’re just spouting off about your opinions.

BEST MOMENTS

‘Tell stories within the framework of the persuasion, known as rhetoric’

‘You only need 3 things, like a tripod needs 3 legs’

‘Layer it in as you go without making you look like an egotistic idiot’

‘Show your audience that what you’re showing matters’.

VALUABLE RESOURCES

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

Normal, How?

Sun, 13 Oct 2019 23:00:00 -0000

‘Your whole life gets to be a whole lot more fun when you decide what’s normal for you’

This absorbing episode explores what normal is and why we should all be able to choose and take control of our own normal in life.

By definition tutors and entrepreneurs have chosen to walk a different path, a path of their own and this podcast is an invaluable insight into how we can calibrate and regulate normality to stay happy and healthy.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Normal is mostly perceptual, Philosophers and psychologists wrangle about what’s real versus what is subjective and objective but they agree that how we respond to, and interpret anything that is done to us impacts on well-being and mental health.
Normal is what happens most of the time it’s how we’d ordinarily behave and ordinarily think.
We moderate all the external stimuli through our beliefs and behaviours and this interpretation is manifested in the way we respond and behave.
We always have a choice and unless we exercise that choice today will just be yesterday repeating itself.
Decide on your own personal normality, how to do it and how to create a better reality out of that better normality.
Visualise in detail your perfect day and over time repeat and refine it clarifying in your mind what you ultimately want and then take action.
When you set up a trajectory for your life each small action makes a difference and if you keep doing it, it becomes a habit, your normality.
Those small changes build into a different way of moving through the world and as you change your business will change with you.
Over the course of a lifetime the change is huge, just keep on recalibrating normality every day.
We all create our own lives and decide what normal looks, sounds, feels and smells like for us and it's vital to take control of your own normal.

BEST MOMENTS

‘Luck as got nothing to do with it I get to do what I love every day because I chose it’

‘I like most people grew up learning to fit in and accept things the way they were, to go with the flow, not make waves or stand out from the crowd’

‘You can’t fly like an eagle when you roost with turkeys’

VALUABLE RESOURCES

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

The Illusion of Overnight Success

Sun, 06 Oct 2019 23:00:00 -0000

Do the small things every day that will aggregate over time to a critical mass and boom!

As someone with over 20 years, experience and expertise as a tutor, coach and business mentor Neil reflects on the reoccurring theme of being an overnight success.

He explores how and why we perceive individuals as having always been successful and provides some great practical tips on how you can create a critical mass that will make the difference from the little things you do consistently every day. Listen in and find out more.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Overnight success

We tend to see how people are now and assume they are just that way when in reality everyone is constantly in transition and evolving year after year refining their approaches, developing and tweaking ideas.
You only see the carefully managed image that someone chooses to show. You don’t see the history or the time it took to arrive at the present.
Nobody is an overnight success;

The little things

It all takes time whatever you are involved in and there will be setbacks and disappointments along the way.
Whether you are only just starting or planning to grow your business it takes time.
If you put the work in and consistently focus on the day to day processes everyday things will move forward. Paying daily attention to the little things adds up over time.

Goals

The human mind doesn’t like vagueness it thrives on specifics and a short timeline can be setting you up to fail.
Everyone overestimates what they can do in a year and underestimate what they can do in a decade.
Having goals is a vital part of any business and thinking 10 to 15 years ahead is an effective time frame for your business vision - what you can imagine and what you can conceive looking forwards.
We don’t notice the tiny changes as they occur but we see them when they achieve critical mass
That single first student has become a booked solid schedule, your income exceeds what most people earn, your life and business fuse into a constant stream of fun and you are making a positive impact on people’s lives.
This is when the realisation that you’ve achieved can make you feel like an overnight success.
When it happens to you, enjoy it you’ve earned it, paid for it and deserve it because you did the little unseen daily things and put the time and achieved your critical mass, so party on!

BEST MOMENTS

‘There are highly talented and skilled tutors who are scrapping around for clients because they have not set any goals’

‘Some of us will carefully plan our businesses but some wont’

‘They lurch from crisis to crisis in a perpetual state on emergency and stress but I know that paying daily attention to the little things adds up over time

VALUABLE RESOURCES

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

Taking Breaks; Yes or No?

Sun, 29 Sep 2019 23:00:00 -0000

In today's episode, Neil discusses how he schedules his lessons and why he isn't keen on taking lots of breaks during the teaching day.

"Maybe I’ll ring a bell in your mind, maybe you’ll think differently and have a different approach – either way, take whatever is useful from here and do let me know your thoughts and ideas."

KEY TAKEAWAYS

First of all, I confess to not liking breaks very much: I teach back-to-back lessons, usually in blocks of 4 or 5 hours. A couple of my tutoring friends think I’m working too hard and should have a break between every lesson, but I can’t agree with them.
There’s not much I like to do more than teaching, so I want to do it as much as I can, whenever I can, and as often as I can. That’s also why I don’t do holidays – because not doing something that’s incredibly rewarding and massive fun in order to do anything less fun just doesn’t make sense to me.
I do limit my face-to-face teaching time to 50 hours a week, so I want to concentrate my 50 chargeable hours into highly productive blocks. Peak time for me is between 5pm and 10pm weekdays, so I usually book that period solid and don’t schedule a break for myself. I’ll book the rest of the day in booked-solid blocks, consolidating as many lessons as I can into each day.
Breaks don’t pay the rent – let’s say you charge £50 an hour for your tuition – every 30 minute break costs you £25 – or to put it another way, your hourly rate drops to £40per hour.
Breaks disturb my rhythm – I’m much happier as one lesson runs into the next, there’s a sort of momentum built up and my energy stays high when I’m teaching – breaks, on the other hand, are slumps in my energy, so I have to regain that momentum every time I take a break. To me it’s like driving in stop-go traffic, accelerating from rest and working up through the gears uses more petrol than cruising at a steady 60mph on the motorway.
Breaks break my state – When I’m teaching I’m at my best – alert, interested, enthusiastic, funny, caring and committed: this is how I love to feel and how I love to move through the world. Every unnecessary break I take moves me out of that state and is a less enjoyable experience.
Teaching is bliss – it is something I love to do - I’m in flow, most of the time – Mihaili Czikzhentmihaili – peak state. Time distortion: hours fly by in a pleasurable state for me – I project that and my students pick up on it, too. I believe it makes me a more effective teacher, too.

VALUABLE RESOURCES

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

info@neilcowmeadow.com

Master Your Emotions

Sun, 22 Sep 2019 23:00:00 -0000

‘Most of the time our emotions manage us, we don’t manage them’

In this episode, Neil explores how our emotional state impacts on our responses and how this, in turn, influences how we are perceived.

This is a fascinating look at how our emotions work and what we can do to be in control of our emotions and use them as a positive resource.

Listen in and find out how you can be in control positively.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

What are emotions?

They are unregulated responses to stimuli and come from the mid part of your brain.
Emotions are fast responses and they can be so powerful that they completely take over. This can be dangerous if the response is anger because this emotion blocks out any regulating thought.
Emotions are generally just triggered by the beliefs you hold in your mind.
A belief is a decision you’ve made once based on the information you had at the time you can change your beliefs based on having different or better information.
Your predominant emotional state usually defines your perceived personality;

Depressed people spend more time feeling low about things whilst optimists spend more time looking at the positive.

Everyone’s personality is essentially driven by emotional states and you get to decide the state you are in.

Master your emotions

You’ve got to master your emotions or they will master you.
What goes on around you is essentially neutral and how you respond is crucial.
Whatever happens, the first thing to do is take a pause, – say nothing, do nothing notice the emotional spike within as you begin to respond ask yourself is this a helpful response?
If it is not, imagine the best response and recognise when it begins to occur in you.
There are events every day in tutoring and you can choose to respond positively every time.

Develop a teaching state

Developing a separate teaching state of mind can be very helpful, ask yourself the question; What would be the very best version of me do?

Keep your problems out of the teaching space

Whatever your personal worries or challenges you must not bring them into your teaching space. They are your student, not your counsellor and if you are a mess you will lose your position of authority
If you display any negative emotions it is bad for business.
Whatever happens – pause and think about what the best response is, and use it
You can come to terms with lots of challenges in this way and the more you do it the better you get at it.
We all experience emotions so it makes sense to be in control and manage them positively
The forces that are already driving you are either adversaries or resources for you to use.

BEST MOMENTS

‘Things going on in the world are not about you, leave your ego at the door and respond to whatever is coming to you in your own chosen way’

‘Decide how you want to respond and apply that to everything that happens’

‘It's important to understand that people often invent bullshit stories and fake reasons, this is a way of protecting themselves and their own egos’

VALUABLE RESOURCES

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

info@neilcowmeadow.com

Go Invisible. How Lockdown Days Spike Productivity and Grow Your Vision

Sun, 15 Sep 2019 23:00:00 -0000

When you’re in business yourself it’s easy to get sucked into doing the same day to day things. In this episode of The Tutor Podcast Neil explains the best and most effective way, that he’s found, to work in your business and not on your business.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Become invisible for a day or two every month, get off of the grid and eliminate all of the distractions like phone and emails.
I find that at home it’s harder to do thins and completely get away so I like to be completely away somewhere else in a different location.
Clear a whole page in your diary and go into ‘total lockdown mode.’ As soon as it’s in your diary then commit to it.
Ensure you have a plan. Book a venue where you can sit and get stuff done. Order food and drinks at specific times and plan when you will take breaks so that you know exactly how your day is mapped out.
Structuring the day will help you to stay on course and get the work of great value to you done.
Getting away from your usual surroundings can also help to clear your thinking which will bring new ideas to mind. Having a different place to work in can take the emotion out of the business.
The location of where you go away should be far enough that you can just pop back home to do something.
If You really can’t get out or away from your normal place of working, then hiding your car around the corner can be a good method of stopping people from distracting me.
Make a habit of doing this every month so that you can get the really important work done.

BEST MOMENTS

‘Being busy can blindside us to working on instead of working in our business.’

‘It’s great to be wrong about stuff because being wrong gives you an update on your thinking and how you can do better.

‘If It’s really important, you will hear about it’

‘You’ll be surprised at how much easier it is to think when you’re away from your desk’.

‘Don’t be a busy fool’.

VALUABLE RESOURCES

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

Twitter: @Tutorpodcast

Starting The Journey

Sun, 08 Sep 2019 23:00:00 -0000

‘Get started, the difference between 0 and 1 is all the difference in the world, make that difference and then it’s just scaling-up’

It’s the time of year when things are changing, schools start a new year  - new students begin, schedules are reorganised and it’s time to maximise revenues.

This is a good time to start working on your tutoring business so where do you begin?

Neil is talking about how his own journey started and has some great advice about how you can get started as a tutor and create a business that will give you the life you want.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Having a Mentor

When you are beginning anything its key to find a mentor, someone who has been there and knows the way, they will hold you accountable, support and guide you.

Learn everyday

Look at those around you in tutoring who are doing well, what are they doing? Take a proven model and use it, adapting it to suit you.

Which wider business models work well? keep notes and use them in your business.

Read or listen to business and finance books and podcasts regularly.

Where to begin

Begin your business by designing it around your own wants and needs.

The purpose of your business is to give you the life you want so you must know what this is, be selfish.

Construct your perfect day in detail and use this as a basis to allocate time to your important activities first.

What is your unique selling proposition (USP)? why are you special?

Finding students

There is no point in being brilliant if no one knows about you. You must tell everyone what you are doing and that you are the best tutor for them.

Develop your elevator pitch and let everyone know what you do.

Marketing

Harness the power of social media to get yourself known.

Get into local sales groups and discussion boards, where people are asking each other where can I find….?

You must have an online presence; it is a non-negotiable. Post content that is subject-specific as this will enable search engines to find you.

Be Professional

Work on your business as well as in it.

As a business make sure you keep records of sales, expenses and mileage.

Always think like a business person, be efficient and make the best use of your time.

My whole business revolves around me, what I love to do on my terms.

Get started – because that’s the difference that makes all the difference.

BEST  MOMENTS

‘I love mentoring, and I want to help even more people get paid for doing what they love’

‘The more people you help the more your life gets better’

‘Get the biggest benefit out for the smallest input in’

‘What is it you are truly fabulous at?’

VALUABLE RESOURCES

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

When Would Now Be a Good Time

Sun, 01 Sep 2019 23:00:00 -0000

Now is the best time. Now is ALWAYS the best time.

Let yourself be seen and heard. How can you offer your service to the right people if they don’t know who to approach? You got to find your clients if you want to be big as a private tutor. Neil says that since the school summer holiday is coming up, make the best out of this break to market your services. Holidays are a perfect time to talk to parents about how you can give better than what their kids’ school offers.

Seize the opportunities now! Get seen, get hired, get paid.

Start tuning in to The Tutor Podcast to learn more.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

School summer holidays serve as a rest for students and educators alike. For the UK, there’s a peak demand for travel, traffic jams, and inflated prices. Is the timetable for schools still applicable with the education provided in the present? Neil believes that learning should be perpetual and that the school calendars should be re-evaluated.
Private tutors should take advantage of these times. Most parents are dissatisfied with how their kids receive their education these days. They’re looking for tutors that can provide better education compared to what the school offers, and they’re prepared to pay them well to do this.
Double down on your marketing. “The job of marketing is to make the product or service more visible to potential customers and to capture their attention – and ultimately occupy mind space.”
- Make your brand and service you offer visible through signages, banners, clothing merchandises, etc.
- Talk to people and let them do the spreading of the news about you.

BEST MOMENTS

“I’m bewildered that education system has not moved with the times.”
“Being a tutor is the best thing that you can do with your skills and knowledge.”
“Do whatever you can to be seen and get noticed.”
“You have to get yourself seen and found.”

VALUABLE RESOURCES

The Tutor Podcast on Twitter: https://twitter.com/tutorpodcast

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

Neil Cowmeadow

Running On Rails

Sun, 25 Aug 2019 23:00:00 -0000

There’s a certain satisfaction in taking the train - safely, confidently delivering you to your destination without the hassles of traffic while generally providing you with a pleasant landscape along the way. In Neil’s opinion, that’s how life should be - we get on at a predetermined destination and move through our day automatically, or “running on rails”.

Often in business we find ourselves becoming overwhelmed by our daily tasks, which gradually encroach upon our lives until we find ourselves overtaken and overwhelmed. This can lead to less free time and a steadily dissatisfied home life. We need to remember that our work lives, too, need to be “running on rails”.

By following Neil’s practical tips, you can make sure your work life runs on rails, and by doing so, make life that little bit more pleasant.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Waking Time - Set your wake up time for the same each morning, but make sure it’s not too early. Get the sleep you need!
Morning Routine - Whether it’s exercise, meditation, journalling, or even the steps you take in order to feel fresh for the day, treat it like routine. And make sure you dress the part.
Big Tasks Time - There has to be a set time each day for the nitty-gritty of work, that period of the day in which you get things done, and take care of the “big dogs”, the tasks that absolutely have to be overcome.
Learning Time - Devote a portion of each day ti improving yourself somehow, whether by reading, watching documentaries, or listening to podcasts. Self-improvement is the key to lasting happiness.
Work Time - When you work, work your hardest!
Meal Times - Take scheduled stops to refuel.
Nap Times - Naps can completely refresh your day, provide you with a burst of energy, and improve your daily outlook.
Stop Times - Know when to go home and stick to it! You don’t have to achieve everything in a single day. Remember that you should always finish when you’re done, not when it’s done!
Leisure Time - Mark your holidays on a calendar. It gives you something to aim for. Remember that work fits around you and your family, not the other way around.
Bed Time - Have a set bed time and stick to it. Set an alarm if you need to, but make your way to bed at that predetermined time each night. Have a bed time routine, too. Fill in your journal, turn off your screens, repeat any mantras or self-hypnosis techniques you may use.

BEST MOMENTS

‘I’ll probably grow out of it eventually… one day…'

‘Lay a track that will take you from where you are to where you want to go every single day’

‘I visualise a four man bobsleigh team’

‘I will not slob around the house in a manky onesie looking like a bag of crap’

‘If you’re not learning, then what business do you have in being a teacher?’

‘One single idea can be worth a fortune'

'Finish when you’re done, not when it’s done'

VALUABLE RESOURCES

The Tutor Podcast

Weird Things Guitarists Do book by Neil Cowmeadow

www.Neilcowmeadow.com

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

info@neilcowmeadow.com

Don't Doubt Yourself

Sun, 18 Aug 2019 23:00:00 -0000

‘Why is doubt universal and what can we do about it?

In this episode, Neil tackles the demons of doubt, universally experienced by us all.

He explains why self-doubt is his kryptonite and what he does to proactively banish the doubts.

If you want to build your life of choice, happiness and wealth then doubt and fear must be overcome, listen in and find out how.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Ask anyone who works for themselves, any entrepreneur and they’ll tell you about the demons of self-doubt.
For some, the feelings are so intense it results in them never starting their own business even though it may be what they truly desire.
Even if you are successful the doubt still lurks, it is always going to be there in varying aspects of your business.

Why does everyone have self-doubt?

It’s an integral aspect of the human psyche and although it may not be possible to eliminate it, we can take steps to manage it.
An important rule to remember is that whatever has precedence has dominance, whatever you were, you will continue to believe yourself to be.
Until you can alter your sense of identity and sense of self to that of a confident tutor and successful entrepreneur you will continue to experience self-doubt.
In order to banish doubt, you need to be emotionally secure and have evidence that you are good at what you do.

What can we do about doubt?

It’s vital to take a proactive approach in the fight against self-doubt
Work on your identity, your identity is the deepest level of self, defining who you are.
Begin using an affirmation and repeat it every day, saying it with conviction. Your unconscious mind will respond to this.
Make the affirmation part of your daily journal writing. In doing this you reprocess and reabsorb the message.
An elevator pitch is also an affirmation when you are asked what you do your response can communicate to others and affirm to you what you are and what you do.
Create a money mantra based on how much you want to earn each year and write it down repeating every day the amount and why you are worth it.
A memory book needs to be kept up to date and records all the good things about your work, testimonials, reviews and thankyous. These all form evidence that will chase away the doubts.
The aim is to create a wall of evidence which doubt cannot overcome. You should be building it every day.
Doubt and its counterpart fear are trying to keep you in the same place.
You must build your life of choice, happiness, wealth and opportunity in the business you have chosen and exert your positive influence on students, clients and anyone who knows you.

BEST MOMENTS

‘Whatever you believe yourself to be now will try to stay the same’

‘Let’s get into the ring with the doubts and give them a good thrashing’

Take action and bring it into reality’

‘When you begin a tutoring business there will be many challenges to overcome’

VALUABLE RESOURCES

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

Turn The Bloody Thing Off!!

Sun, 11 Aug 2019 23:00:00 -0000

In today’s day and age, we can find it difficult to separate ourselves from our mobile phones, some may even suffer from anxiety and withdrawal symptoms, scientists are now referring to this a Nomophobia. In this episode of The Tutor Podcast, Neil shares his helpful tips on how he distances himself away his mobile phone, allowing us to focus on ourselves, our relationships and our business’.

‘This is the most challenging thing and the most rewarding thing you will do’

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Text messages and emails can be damaging to business and relationships as it is easy for people to miscommunicate and misinterpret what the other person is saying. Even if you don’t respond to a message because you are too busy, some people may think you are ignoring them and take it personally.
Your phone emits radiation. It operates on the same frequency as your microwave, Neil explains how frequently using your mobile phone is slow cooking your brain.
Try to avoid using your phone before falling asleep, your brain will always reprocess and overthink about the last thing you saw before you fall asleep, if you experience some late night drama on social media, this can seriously affect your night’s sleep.
Don’t text and drive, don’t be that moron. Every time you’re paying attention to your phone, you’re not paying attention to anything else.
Phone can be damaging for your productivity, recent studies show that it can take up to 23 minutes for you to regain focus after a distraction, think about how many notification you get everyday… hide your phone away
Don’t be afraid to be a pain in the arse to get hold of, turn off your notifications or just turn it off and crack on with your business.

BEST MOMENTS

‘Remember your phone is supposed to be a tool, don’t let it use you.’

‘However crap you think you are, the chances are nobody else has noticed, they’re too busy thinking about their own stuff to worry about you’

‘If they’re paying for your time, let’s give them 100% of our attention’

‘Your mobile phone will devastate your productivity’
‘reclaim your time, maybe even reclaim your life’

VALUABLE RESOURCES

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

Specialise and Diversify

Sun, 04 Aug 2019 23:00:00 -0000

‘Do it now, do it before you need it, because sooner or later you will need it’

Here to help you as always, if you’re already in the business, and to egg you on if you think you’d like to be in this business, in this episode Neil talks about how to specialise and diversify to survive successfully in these changing times.

He shares his expertise and experience of developing multiple streams of income to de-risk his life and provides comprehensive advice on how you can do it too.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

We live in changing times;

Technology and artificial intelligence will make many jobs obsolete.
Society is changing and people are becoming more insular and passive in their interactions, they are ‘Spectators on the touchlines of life’.
Our businesses are affected by the demographic, an aging population and the economic climate, factors over which we have no control.

What are you going to do when your skills are not relevant anymore?

Have a plan A (what you are doing currently), a plan B and a plan C.
You must keep learning and upskilling - it’s all about long term survival.

De-risk your life

Don’t be ordinary – become exceptional at what you do and then people won’t be able to do without you.
Minimise your downtime, work as hard as you can throughout the workday.
Charge top dollar for your services because you are worth it.
Develop other products around what you do.
Always search for potential add-ons that you can build upon.
Multiple skills lower your exposure to risk. Make a decision to divide your time and resources. Begin by allocating 20% of resources to the next project.
When your first and second streams of income are systemised, you can move to add another income stream.

How to diversify

Look at what you do currently and how you can generate passive income from these activities such as products and licensing.
There are always opportunities out there for new businesses, joint ventures, parallel businesses.

Changes

Stuff happens and your life can change in a heartbeat.
If you only have one skill, one income stream or the limitations of your own time you are at risk.
The only certainty we have is that things will change.
It’s vital to become the master within your own optimised business and diversify looking for other things you can do when you can't do the job you are currently doing.

BEST MOMENTS

‘Above all else – give yourself the freedom to choose’

‘I’m passionate about growing your business beyond doing a few guitar lessons’

‘Your best protection is to be extremely good at what you do’

VALUABLE RESOURCES

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

The Opportunity Mindset

Sun, 28 Jul 2019 23:00:00 -0000

In this episode of The Tutor Podcast Neil covers how to start having an opportunity mind-set and how you can use it to benefit your life, whether that’s starting your own business or improving your life.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Ask yourself what’s good about this? Where’s the opportunity in it? Then ask what’s next? It’s a good starting base for finding opportunities.
Nobody can do the learning for us and we’ve got to find the opportunities ourselves. It’s about your mind-set.
The mind-set of opportunity allows us to dream a little bigger, teach a little better and help a little more. Through practise we can get better and better.
When your mind-set becomes thinking in this way, you will be able to see that there’s opportunity everywhere.
Always be looking for opportunity because if you’re not then the likeliness of you finding nothing is high.

BEST MOMENTS

‘We don’t learn entrepreneurship at school.’

‘Often we’re building on no knowledge of the journey we’re on.’

‘If we survive we must carry on learning.’

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

Neil Cowmeadow

info@neilcowmeadow.com

Mental Movies

Sun, 21 Jul 2019 23:00:00 -0000

Neil discusses the importance of mental rehearsal and how you can use it to help your students, or yourself, to improve the way you play or teach. Listen to this episode to find out how you can use mental rehearsal to improve the way you teach your students and how you can use it to enable them to improve their skills too.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Mental rehearsal is a vital component of what I do, and try to get my students to do, day to day. Everyone should be using this and encouraging to do this because practising in the mind allows you to practise perfectly without any mistakes, unlike if you were to practise in real life.
Mental rehearsal presents very low resistance to the idea of practising and can be done anywhere at any time.
How do you teach your students to mentally rehearse?
Get them to visualise themselves playing perfectly with excellent technique and control.
Get them to see themselves looking happy and enjoying playing.
Ask them how they can see themselves moving when they play.
Tweak this vision until it’s perfect, the nature, quality and movement.
Make the image really colourful, bright and bold.
Use the piece of the music that they’re working on at the moment.
Have the student zoom in and out of the image to see what they’re doing with each hand when mentally rehearsing.
When the mental rehearsal is over, the lessons and learnings from the mental movie can be taken away for when they practise in real life.
Don’t believe what the artists are doing in any instrumental music video is how to play the song, most of the time the music is pre recorded then lip sank.
This could even be therapeutic and relaxing. The more you do it, the more vivid you will be able to remember make the mental movie real.
You can apply mental rehearsal to teaching too, it doesn’t’ just have to be for students.

BEST MOMENTS

‘When you practise mentally, it can be perfect every time.’

‘Shape the movie to what they want.’

‘Go from Third person to First person.’

‘They should do it as often as they can whenever they like’

‘Play back the music that they’re learning.’

‘Best time for mental rehearsal is just before bed.’

We, and our students, can become better versions of ourselves in our minds.’

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

Neil Cowmeadow

info@neilcowmeadow.com

Care Excessively

Sun, 14 Jul 2019 23:00:00 -0000

"Well, what do I mean by 'care excessively'?"

In this episode of The Tutor Podcast, Neil gets to the point of why we as tutors should not only care, but argues that we should care excessively. Join Neil as he touches on the psychology of the Presenting Problem and why it is important for your tutoring business!

KEY TAKEAWAYS

I think it’s a great by-product of being a tutor that we are held in very high regard and are trusted by our students. So, what should we, as tutors, do when a student asks questions or raises issues which are outside of what we were hired to teach?
Should we simply ask the student to focus on the task at hand, or allow them to be curious and do our best to help them?
In medicine, therapy and hypnosis there’s something called The Presenting Problem – it’s the reason the client or patient booked the session.
But here’s the thing – the presenting problem is usually just the surface level of what they really want. On a deeper level, there’s something else entirely. Now, if I confine myself to only discussing and dogmatically insisting that ALL we ever speak about is the Problem – two bad things will happen:

Bad Thing #1 – lessons will be really boring and client turnover will be high. That’s bad for business and for my mental health! It also breaks my first Secret Golden Rule – “Don’t do anything that isn’t fun”

Bad Thing #2 – I might never get beyond the Presenting Problem of their guitar playing and understand the person sitting across the room from me.

Listen in and make sure you get in touch with Neil and let him know your thoughts.

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

Neil Cowmeadow

info@neilcowmeadow.com

The Encyclopedia of Applied Fantasticness

Sun, 07 Jul 2019 23:00:00 -0000

What is teaching all about?

Teaching all about leaving a legacy in the hearts, minds and souls of all of your students. In this episode of The Tutor Podcast Neil gives you an insight on how he records his legacy and the importance of doing so.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

All coached and tutors should have one.
What is an encyclopaedia of applied fantasticness? It’s my memory book where I keep a personal record of the people I’ve enjoyed teaching and coaching. It’s for the notes, cards and photos etc… that I’ve received from all of my students and clients.
Being a tutor is such a privilege and so much better than any other job I’ve ever done.
I look at my encyclopaedia of applied fantasticness when I’m feeling down to remind myself of the brilliant students I’ve worked with and taught and how I’ve impacted their lives in a positive way.
That nagging feeling of unreality, being a fraud and impostor syndrome fades when I look at my encyclopaedia of applied fantasticness.

If you haven’t already got one, start one. It’s memories of great times you’ve had with students and proof of you not being an impostor for when you get that feeling.

BEST MOMENTS

‘It’s hard to believe that by sharing my life long love affair of guitar has had such a massive impact on peoples lives.’

‘Keep calm and have an awesome day.’

‘Have a fantastic day.’

‘You’ll leave a legacy of fantasticness.’

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

Neil Cowmeadow

info@neilcowmeadow.com

ChinUp!

Sun, 30 Jun 2019 23:00:00 -0000

Neil discusses his top tips on how to keep positive especially when you come across problems or challenges that you may face within general life. It’s important not to take life problems and challenges personally because we’re all human and have 1 life to life so there’s no point wasting time and energy feeling negatively about life’s hiccups. Listen in to find out more…

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Things do go wrong. All problems and challenges are part of life; you’ve got to get over it. Problems are not personal.
Consider whether you have control over these problems/issues. If you do have control over them then it means you have the option to change it, if so then roll your sleeves up! If you can’t change them then don’t waste time and energy on trying to change them.
Ask yourself what the worst way you could respond to these problems is then think of better responses you could choose. Then ask which is the one that would lead to the best success?
Find the opportunity within the problems. In every situation of change, there is an opportunity.
If your plans don’t work out, then just make another plan. Make a plan which now reflects the events, circumstances and changes that are going on around you. Bring your plan up to date. It’s a chance to refine your thinking and adapt and respond to the changes that are inevitable within business.
When people let you down, accept that some people just won't make the cut. Ask yourself are you expecting too much of people. When people let you down they’re showing you who really they are. They’ll give you clarity which is a good thing. When you do have to get rid of people from your life then just remember they were taking up space for other really great people.
You will change but if your work is in line with your values then it will be a positive thing.
How we feel minute to minute it’s up to us. It’s how you choose to feel about situations and how you come back from them.

BEST MOMENTS

‘Things will go wrong.’

‘Stuff happens but you need to deal with reality.’

‘Divert your energy to change your view of the problem’

‘If you’re not looking for opportunity then it will pass you by so ask yourself where’s the good in this or what’s the positives.’

‘Always remember to find out what’s good in any situation.’

‘remember to say revolute on your direction but stay flexible with the route on which you get there.’

‘When things change around you then adapt to the change. Make use of the change.’

‘The sooner you spot a duffer, the sooner you spot a tosser, the better.’

‘Be prepared to loose people on the way.’

‘Never be afraid to loose a tosser and if you do need to then do it as fast as you can.’

‘Count your blessings.’

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

Neil Cowmeadow

info@neilcowmeadow.com

Create Your Master Plan

Sun, 23 Jun 2019 23:00:00 -0000

The last thing you want while building your tower of success is to see it crumble down.

It’s important that you create and solidify a master plan. It serves as the map while you are on your journey towards your goal. A master plan doesn’t have to be sternly followed; it is flexible depending on the current milestones you’re receiving and the better opportunities that come. Neil also shares today his own master plan for his tutor business. The most important thing is that you contribute value to others along the way. Discover where you should start and why should do it in this episode of The Tutor Podcast.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Have a plan. That’s always the first step. Once you have a plan, everything will fall right into their proper place. It gets ingrained in your mind that you got something you need to do. Once you wake up, the immediate thought is about how to execute the planning bit by bit.
It’s easier to look for opportunities when you know where you’re going. You set an eye on things that will help you achieve your goal smoothly.
Contributing value to others is what you should priorities if you’re looking into starting a business, not wealth. The money will follow when you do great at serving others.
According to Neil, honesty is the key value that business should uphold, and behind this, fun, understanding support, and flexibility follow.
It’s important to write down what you stand for so you can go back to them if you’re losing focus and feeling lost.
Neil’s 3 Biggest Annual Priorities:
- Deliver unique message to students and listeners.
- Increase visibility.
- Understand the marketplace.
If there are tasks that need to be delegated to others so you can concentrate on more important tasks for the business, do it. It’s most likely that other people are far better at doing some jobs than you. Know where you need to focus.

BEST MOMENTS

“The reason that you must have a plan is it constrains your thinking – it forces you to keep on track.”
“Amateurs dabble and stumble one from one week to next. They’re very reactive to external conditions. They tend to jump from things to other things.”
“Focus on the most important things. Build a business in which you can create more value.”
“My business’ mission is to change how the world plays the guitar and to create happier and more fulfilled human beings.”
“With a little bit of repetition and the right inputs, you don’t need the mythical quality of talent.”

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

Neil Cowmeadow

info@neilcowmeadow.com

Price Whores & Special Requests

Sun, 16 Jun 2019 23:00:00 -0000

In this episode of The Tutor Podcast Neil discusses the best ways to deal with customers who are price whores or special request clients. These two types of clients are often ones that are best avoided. Neil also covers alternative routes that you could take if you don’t necessarily want to turn the opportunity of a new client down. Listen in to find out more!

KEY TAKEAWAYS

In my experience there are only 2 types of customers. Your dream type of customers (which we looked at in episode 10) who are you’re looking to aim your services at. The other type of customer is ‘the rest’ which is everyone who isn’t necessarily your perfect match.
There are 2 types of people who I choose not to deal with. Price whores and special request people.
Price whores are looking for the cheapest price and best deals only.

Special request people tend to be prima-donnas who often think they’re more special in some way so expect special treatments. They often make demands rather than requests and are most likely going to be a real pain in the arse.
Stand your ground with your price whores and special cases. If you yield and give a special discount to a price whore, then you are dishonouring your current students and what they’re paying you.
Ask questions to price whores to ensure they’re only looking for a cheap price. E.g. You can have good or cheap. Not both. Which would you like?
The people with special demands tend to be entitled and cancel last minute. They often don’t do the work after they go home. The often think that they will become great just because they’ve paid for a tutor. So get paid upfront.
Have your prefect week written down and then put a price on it. Anything that takes you away from your perfect week then ensure the rewards are substantial so it’s worth taking time off of your perfect week in order to make it happen.

BEST MOMENTS

“Golden rule number 2 is DDWT – Don’t deal with tossers. (As discussed in episode 3)”
“Until the person on the phone becomes a student, they are a stranger.”
“Your current customers deserve your loyalty.”
“You’ve got to do the drills to get the skills.”
“Never negotiate on price. There shouldn’t be a need to settle for less.”

VALUABLE RESOURCES

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

The Tutor Podcast
Weird Things Guitarists Do book by Neil Cowmeadow
www.Neilcowmeadow.com

Certainty & Utilisation

Sun, 09 Jun 2019 23:00:00 -0000

In this episode of The Tutor Podcast Neil covers what utilisation and compliance are and how they are linked. He also explains how these can be used to enhance your tutoring and get the best outs=comes for your students.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Certainty is a sense that I know exactly what I’m doing. Convey that certainty to your students so they know that you’re really good at what you do.
The Milgram study showed that people are more likely to comply to an authority figure.
Utilisation ties into the idea of certainty because if we’re constantly being surprised by things, we undermined ourselves as being experts.

“Resistance is created by a lack of clarity” which I believe translates to “the student will fear failure if the teacher is uncertain of a successful outcome for the student”.
A person who completely certain of themselves is infinitely more convincing of a person who is doubtful of a successful outcome.
Use language that conveys certainty.

BEST MOMENTS

“Authority is one of the biggest drivers of compliant behaviour”

“Utilisation is the idea of everything being expected and there are no surprises”

“There’s no need to be perfect out of the box.”

VALUABLE RESOURCES

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

info@neilcowmeadow.com
https://twitter.com/tutorpodcast

Rethinking Rejection

Sun, 02 Jun 2019 23:00:00 -0000

‘We can get hurt by it and learn to fear rejection or we can learn from it and recognise it’s a natural consequence of being in the tutoring business’

Neil tackles rejection and explores the varied situations in which tutors can be rejected and the ways in which you can learn and adapt if you understand the rejection and respond in positive ways that are focused on developing your business and moving forward.

If you want to understand why sometimes be rejected is the best way forward then tune in now!

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Everyone suffers from rejection and how you respond to it is a choice.
It can knock your confidence but it’s important to look at the reasons and understand it is not personal.
If your values are not aligned with the potential client then it can be better to not work together. You should consider this more long-term view when you respond to the rejection.
It important to look for patterns, it is possible you are repeatedly doing something that is leading to rejection.
Rejection is an invaluable opportunity to learn and adapt, what you are doing to effectively meet the needs of your clients.
There are a range of situations as a tutor where rejection is possible;
The no show students – it’s important to set yourself the rule of not dealing with these types of people.
Students who quit - Students priorities are not the same as those of the tutor, asking and finding out why they are quitting establishes communication that can help to ensure the student knows they can return later.
Not getting hired by a new prospect – this can be due to a mismatch in values and approaches between you and the client.
Not getting hired by parents- this is often influenced by schedules and the logistics of getting the student to you at the required time.
Not getting hired by institutions – these form only one possible income stream and there are costs involved in whatever you are doing if you are working for schools your time for other revenue streams is limited.
Telephone tyre-kickers – these are price driven commodity consumers; you must value the service and expertise you offer. If you are able to eliminate these individuals at the telephone stage then you can save valuable time further on in the process.
Email enquiries that don’t get back to you – sending a communication to clarify why they didn’t follow through with the booking can provide helpful feedback.
If you’re in the game there is a price to pay and rejection is part of it, it is the way in which we respond, learn and adapt that is vital for any business moving forward.

BEST MOMENTS

‘I will keep the door open for the future unless I have decided I don’t want to work with the individual due to the DDWT’

‘Rejection is usually not personal, none of us is universally appealing ‘

‘I like to do it my way as it produces better results than grade-based work’

‘I teach them to love making music and be creative’

VALUABLE RESOURCES

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

info@neilcowmeadow.com

Check Your Ego

Sun, 26 May 2019 23:00:00 -0000

Losing your big ego can make a difference in how you handle your business and how you can influence people. So, in this episode of The Tutor Podcast, Neil teaches you how to keep your ego at a healthy level. As a guitar teacher himself, he’s had experience handling rowdy students. Even though all you want is to make sure they put their best foot forward, you can’t compel them to do everything. So, what you should do is focus on how you can attract their interest and engage them to learn at their own will. Discover more tips from Neil when you tune in!

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Remember to understand that students have other aspects of their life that they’re also developing as they grow, not just learning lessons. They have relationships they need to nurture, classes/work have to attend to, and other passions that they pursue.
Most of the time, enforcing compliance in your students will make them hate and resent you. And, that’s the last thing you want to do as a teacher. You have to encourage interest every time, so you won’t have to require them to do anything.
Let go of your ego and focus entirely on your students. There’s a significant difference in how your business and your school will run if you don’t let your ego run things.

BEST MOMENTS

“I was not the most important in the teaching room or in the business; the student is the most important in the teaching room or in the business.”
“A big realization for me was that I have no power over the student, all I can do is influence things.”
“I will never use the words of ‘compulsion’ and ‘compulsory’ with my students.”

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

Neil Cowmeadow

info@neilcowmeadow.com

The Autonomiser; Using Student's Resistance to Overcome Itself

Sun, 19 May 2019 23:00:00 -0000

‘I have used anything and everything to help students overcome their resistance and I'm always keen to try new things’

Neil explains how you can use the Autonomiser to help lower resistance, generate more enthusiasm or overcoming a fear or hesitation

This technique is very successful and will be a useful addition to any tutors teaching toolbox listen in to find out more

KEY TAKEAWAYS

To work successfully with a student, you need engage with their emotions.
When a student is working outside their comfort zone for the first time it can be very challenging.
This techniques is somewhat obscure but works really well.
The source of this technique is the sports psychology program that was in place in the Eastern bloc countries to develop athletes in the 1970s and 1980s when these countries dominated world sport.
When a student is working outside their comfort zone for the first time it can be very challenging
Ask the student to rate how much they want to do the new activity
Follow the rating ask them to explain why they didn’t rate it lower.
In explaining and through verbalising alongside the careful use of soft questioning the student will achieve clarity and begin to lose their objections.
This process should be repeated until the student rates highly wanting to undertake the activity and the barriers are removed.

BEST MOMENTS

‘It’s all about their values’

‘It took him from terrified and silent for 40 years to singing for the first time with a huge smile’

‘This is quick and dirty technique for lowering resistance’

VALUABLE RESOURCES

Red Gold book by Grigori Raiport, not currently in print

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

info@neilcowmeadow.com

Other People's Messes!!

Sun, 12 May 2019 23:00:00 -0000

062 Other Peoples Messes 

DESCRIPTION

A lot of students pay good money for tutors who don’t give good advice, give angry interactions, teach music the students don’t want to play and make it clear that the student is last priority. So what can you do about it when taking on new students that have been through this?

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Be grateful – Every time you require a new student; you require a new revenue stream so be grateful for new clients.
You get accurate information on your competition – You’re essentially lifting up the covers and get to know what your competitors are doing, for example, the methods they’re using. So listen to your students.
Be nice and gentle on the teacher that they used to have, even if they’ve been taught terrible technique – Focus on the student
Take care of the position and technique by always explaining why these are used.
Never shout at the student – you can’t be angry at a student for not knowing what they don’t know how to do.
The better you teach the student, the better they’ll market you.

BEST MOMENTS

“Don’t claim that you’re better than the previous teacher, just explain that your approach is different.”

“Don’t slag off the old teacher because Karma will get you back”

“Never shout at the student”

“There are crap tutors out there, so thank the lucky stars that you get the opportunity to do a much better job for the student.”

VALUABLE RESOURCES

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

Hypnosis, Teaching & Trance

Sun, 05 May 2019 23:00:00 -0000

‘I use it every single day, in every single lesson with every single person I meet’

In this episode, Neil explains how NLP can be an invaluable tool in a tutor’s teaching toolbox.

He shares how you can direct attention and lower conscious barriers to achieve accelerated learning and better lessons.

Listen in to find out why learning to use hypnosis can improve your tutor sessions for both you, the tutor, and the learner.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

An awareness of trance makes teaching quicker and a whole lot more fun

What is trance?

Trance states and hypnosis are in essence the bypass of critical faculty by the direction of attention and recruitment of unconscious resources in order to better access the potential of the unconscious mind and the innate resources of the subject.

How do you use hypnosis to make your teaching and lessons better?

Start with yourself. Whatever state you are in will influence the state of your students. If you are excited and curious they will become excited and curious mirroring you.

Hypnosis is effective and easy to learn

Hypnosis is completely ethical as a teaching tool if your intentions are ethical

Like any other tool, it is neutral in character, it can only amplify what you bring to it

If you are not yet using it as part of your teaching tool kit then you should be.

BEST MOMENTS

‘No magic just directed attention and the lowering of conscious barriers’

‘Not sure at the moment if I am a hypnotist who teaches guitar or a guitar teacher who uses hypnosis’

‘They don’t cluck like chickens they just get better’

VALUABLE RESOURCES

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

Digital Disasters & Damage Control

Sun, 28 Apr 2019 23:00:00 -0000

In episode 59 we covered that everything these days is going digital because they’re fast, flexible and cheap. In this episode, we will be discussing the importance of backing up your data and how you can do this.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Everything is heading in a digital direction, more and more products are becoming digital.
Digital products are fast, flexible and cheap but can have downfalls such as hackers, viruses and the vulnerability to break down.
Data is the lifeblood of your business. People don’t realise the value of your data. If you lose it all, you lose all of your customer contact details, schedules, plans and more. You’ll have to rebuild everything again which will have massive indirect and direct costs.
Updates can be set to automatically. Ensure they are as viruses can mutate.
Be paranoid about suspicious emails and back everything up.
I use the cloud to back up all of my data so they’re safely stored. I also use 2 backups drives (One onsite and one offsite) which are both 1 terabyte, password protected, and updated every few weeks. Great for backing up large files such as video.
In addition, I keep offsite archives which is an offsite back up of all of my accountancy data. I update this annually after I finish all of my accounts for the year just-in-case HMRC need anything.
Get into the habit of backing up your data. Set your calendar to remind you of a regular back update so you don’t lose all of those years of information.

BEST MOMENTS

“Don’t think if it happens to me, think when it happens to me”

“A little bit of investment in good security across all of your devices and the small effort of keeping up to date is well worth it.”

“Be suspicious of emails with attachments and links in them especially from unknown senders”

“Remember you must keep your records for 60 years, from the end of the last company financial year that they relate to.”

VALUABLE RESOURCES

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

Why Writing Things Down is Very Smart

Sun, 21 Apr 2019 23:00:00 -0000

Have you ever wondered what’s best pen and paper or digital?

In this episode, Neil shares why writing stuff down using pen and paper is important

for us all.

He explains how our ideas and memories can be captured with flair and revisited with ease.

If you want to ensure that your teaching flow is not disrupted and those creative moments are not lost listen in.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

I'm a massive fan of paper and pen but am also a huge advocate of all things digital. The key is to choose the right medium for the situation.
Research suggests that writing things down compels us to reprocess our thoughts and understanding.
The very act of forming words and handling a pen causes our brains to engage different motor groups, so more of your brain is firing off when you are processing your thoughts and getting them down on paper.
We need to crystallise the ideas we have, and it is vital to be able to bring them together into some sort of order. Starting to write things down helps us to put ideas in order.
Emotions can be difficult to convey but writing them down allows you to bring them to together and organise them and in doing so better understand them.
Paper can be BIG, tiny screens will keep your thoughts small. You can work on a very large scale with any paper extending it physically as your ideas are extended and shaped around a particular challenge.
Paper documents such as journals and photos document our journeys through life holding our ideas, thoughts and memories.
A scrapbook of the positive things you have achieved is a great way to remind yourself of all you have achieved and the difference you have made to others.
They remind us of the people we have known and the ways in which we have helped and guided them.
I love writing and the right pen, ink and paper is very seductive.
It only takes seconds to jot down a spark of an idea without disrupting the lesson and there is something tactile about leaving written records for others in the future.

BEST MOMENTS

‘I’m able to put restless ideas in order and sort the relationships between ideas’

‘You can drag those seething emotions out, put them on paper and examine them’

‘When I write things down on paper it makes me seem mercurial’

‘When you are writing the ideas are being woven into the way you already think’

VALUABLE RESOURCES

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Weird-Things-Guitarists-Do-Misconceptions-ebook/dp/B01M2YRARG/ref=asap_bc?ie=UTF8

Get Happy and Grin Like a Maniac!

Sun, 14 Apr 2019 23:00:00 -0000

“There are some people out there who just won’t get it. Frankly, I am not talking to them; They’re a bunch of miserable sods!”

In this episode of The Tutor Podcast, your host Neil Cowmeadow is going to be sharing his two top tips for staying positive – both as an entrepreneur and as a human being. Recognise how lucky you are to get up each day! Neil lets you know a few strange but positive movements and methods to further amplify good vibrations and positivity each morning (which will start your day right!)

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Here’s what Neil does –

When I wake up - Go “yesssssss!!!! I’m not dead...that means it’s going to be a very fantastic day today”
Get straight out of bed and stand up in the Victory pose. If that’s too full-on, do the WonderWoman. Ted talks Amy Cuddy Power Poses
Maybe put on some uplifting music and dance around. Congratulate yourself for not being dead yet
Mankind has been around for 300,000 years – 109.5 million days...and you won today! If you can do this, You’ve beaten the odds again
The lottery jackpot runs at 45 million to 1 against! So every day you do something that’s more than twice as unlikely as winning the lottery jackpot – you lucky bastard!
Grin like a maniac – my term (endorsed by Aaron, the technical guy who edits TTP). Do it because the fastest way to change your mood is to change your physiology

Think of a victory you’ve had

Hear what you heard, see what you saw, feel how you felt
assume the position and hold it,
intensify it, more colour more volume, make the pictures bigger
now hold that pose and try to feel bad....
notice you can’t do it?

Now think of one of your failures...

Hear what you heard, see what you saw, feel how you felt
assume the position and hold it,
intensify it, more colour more volume, make the pictures bigger
now hold that pose and try to feel good....
notice that you can’t do it
now resume that victorious stance and try to stay feeling bad
notice you can’t do it?

Still, think that life is hard, do you? Think you have no choice over how you feel?

Do it – and I want to hear about it

“I promise you this: if you adopt this mindset and grin like a maniac, you will feel differently about life and about yourself.“

VALUABLE RESOURCES

Ted Talks; Amy Cuddy Power Poses

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

Neil Cowmeadow

info@neilcowmeadow.com

Stories to Tell and Compel

Sun, 07 Apr 2019 23:00:00 -0000

The best way to make the eyes and the ears of your students glued to you is to confidently tell the best story you could ever make.

In this episode of The Tutor Podcast, Neil talks about the importance of storytelling in teaching. As educators, teachers, and coaches, we want that, as much as possible, we provide the most fun and productive learning experience for our students. Discover why creating stories produces the instant magic of attracting and engaging your target audience. Neil also talks about the generic structure of the world’s greatest novels, his own teaching experience, why Star Wars is a big hit and many more.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Stories help us to make sense of the world. There are written and spoken histories, myths, and folklore that have been passed on for hundreds of years. They haven’t died and have continued to be retold because they are story-based.
Stories are a storehouse of information and wisdom. We listen to told stories, learn the lesson from them, and contemplate about how related our experiences.
Stories help your ideas be interesting and sound familiar to your audience. The easiest and most effective way to sell your idea is to slip it in a story. Stories got the flow and easily links your ideas together. When we start telling the story, the listener anticipates for what’s next.
There’s a generic story structure which powers the majority of the world’s greatest stories, according to Joseph Campbell’s work in “The Hero with a Thousand Faces”. Across cultures, the story is the same:
- The departure – the future hero is compelled to, or chooses to, leave their normal world
- The initiation – the future hero is tested and changed in some way; often discovering who they really are and what is most important to them.
- The return – once changed, the Hero returns to their Normal world, bringing back to it their discoveries.

BEST MOMENTS

“Sneaking your message or content in a story package is a great way of putting it under the radar of students and friends. I think it’s very important that we are creating, finding, borrowing, and using stories because they’re great resources for our business.”
“I love to use stories to encapsulate the big ideas of my guitar teaching system and the way I develop it. It’s a sticky way to bring a lot of ideas to life, to make the small, technical details more memorable and fun for my students.”
“There are stories everywhere. In life, every message or idea can be made more memorable when it’s wrapped in the right story.”

VALUABLE RESOURCES

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

Neil Cowmeadow

info@neilcowmeadow.com

The Importance of Frames

Sun, 31 Mar 2019 23:00:00 -0000

What happens when we reach the end of our tutoring career?

Today on The Tutor Podcast, Neil discusses the exit strategies you can take when it’s already time. Neil realised that the clock is ticking and soon, there will come a time that he’ll be very old to teach. So, what do we do when the music stops? What do we do when we don’t want to teach anymore? Learn today where you can get more opportunities and more options outside tutoring when you tune in.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Exit Strategies:

Have one
Don’t think “it’ll be all right” because nobody is coming to the rescue
Social security is already bankrupt in the US and Britain is following suit
Define your own retirement
Don’t rely on benefits

What options do we have?

Retain the business
- Stay on as owner
- Avoid practical work – unless it’s a top-level service
- You’ll need staff
- Create a succession plan
Sell the business
- The business cannot be just you or me
- Tangible and bigger than one person
- Systems, IP, Premises
Create systems:
- Franchise-able, McDonalds model
- Train / mentor
- Get paid royalties
- Earn commissions
Create IP
- Books, Music, Teaching tools, Licenses and royalties
Diversify
- Invest outside your business
  - Properties, equities, new & existing businesses
- Create a passive income
- Don’t rely on anything based on projected capital growth and draw-downs / refinancing – you have no control over the market

BEST MOMENTS

“Nobody’s coming to the rescue. The old idea that the state pension will keep you in comfort after you made your contribution is broken and obsolete.”
“We have to think about diversification. Invest in a business.”
“Opportunities are everywhere, so keep listening and keep thinking about what you want to do. Always do your homework where you’re investing.”
“Have an exit strategy. Start thinking and start planning – then get busy doing, because nobody is coming to the rescue.”

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

Neil Cowmeadow

info@neilcowmeadow.com

I'm a Guitar Teacher - Get Me Out of Here!!!

Mon, 25 Mar 2019 00:00:00 -0000

Welcome to The Tutor Podcast! Today, your host Neil Cowmeadow talks about what happens when we reach the end of our tutoring career;

• Am I Too old?
• Am I Bored?
• Changes to my Economics?
• Changes in my Circumstances?

Traditionally, pensions were the way to go, but Neil explains why he thinks it’s a model that isn’t worth pursuing. In episode #040, Neil goes on a deep dive on pensions so go back and listen for more Pension Info!

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

What we do need to look at though are Exit Strategies:

• “I’m a guitar teacher, get me out of here” – or, what to do when the music stops.
• Have one
• Don’t think “it’ll be all right” because nobody is coming to the rescue
• Social security is already bankrupt in the US and Britain is following suit
• Define your own retirement
• Don’t rely on benefits

What options do we have?
• Retain the business
* stay on as owner
* avoid practical work – unless it’s a top-level service
* you’ll need staff
* create a succession plan
• Sell the business
* The business cannot be just you or me
* Tangible and bigger than one person
* Systems
* IP
* Premises
• Create systems:
* Franchise-able
* McDonalds model
* Train / mentor
* Get paid royalties
* Earn commissions
• Create IP
* Books
* Music
* Teaching tools
* Licenses and royalties
• Diversify
* Invest outside your business& create a passive income
* Don’t rely on anything based on projected capital growth and draw-downs / refinancing – you have no control over the market
* Opportunities are everywhere, so listen...
* Do your homework – due diligence is a pain, but losing your investment is much worse.
• Remember – it’s up to you. Start thinking and start planning – then get busy doing

VALUABLE RESOURCES

https://itunes.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-tutor-podcast/id1369191372?mt=2

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Weird-Things-Guitarists-Do-Misconceptions-ebook/dp/B01M2YRARG/ref=asap_bc?ie=UTF8

The Teaching Language Toolbox Part 3; The Language of Effective Questions!

Mon, 18 Mar 2019 00:00:00 -0000

This is the third show in a 3 part mini-series exploring language.

In the last 2 shows, we’ve examined the VAKOG Model of language – visual, auditory, Kinaesthetic, olfactory and gustatory – along with pacing and leading language structures.

These language tools can be a part of your language toolbox helping you to ensure that all your students achieve through effective tutoring and coaching.

Todays’ episode explores questioning and how to generate productive responses, listen in now to find out more!

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Greeting clients

The language you use when you greet your clients sets a powerful frame around you.

Your job is to infuse your students with energy, interest and curiosity.

You can be;

Outrageous

Flamboyant

Fabulous

Dazzling

Scintillating

You must never be just fine or just alright and this must be conveyed through the language you use.

Greet your students in a way that promotes positive anticipation of what will come in the lesson.

Asking effective and powerful questions

Only ask questions that you know the answers to. If you are observing something in a student from their psychology, facial expression or body language then you can ask questions that allow them to acknowledge what you have already seen.

Go for questions that have yes answers. compliance is part of the learning process. If you ask questions that promote ‘no’ answers then it is more likely that a situation with friction will occur.

You can soften questions so that it does not feel like an interrogation. This is done by asking questions such as

‘I’m curious about...’

‘That’s fascinating – how do you do that?’

‘How might we change that to make it a little better?’

‘Can we run a little thought experiment?’

Tag questions can be used to hang on the end of a statement. These are questions such as;

Isn’t it?

Wouldn’t you?

Can you not?

Can’t you?

3 magic questions

‘What’s good about this?’

This points your student in the right direction to find a positive outcome. They might need to hunt around to find the positive but in looking for the positive any negative is lessened.

‘And before that?’

This is about working with the student to work backwards from their ultimate goal.

It sets a path in the students mind about how to work towards their big goal. It can help them to see there is a structured approach. It makes clear it is a step by step process that has to be moved through successfully to reach the goal.

‘And what else?’

Asking what else after a student has a moment of insight or solves a problem encourages them to seek out more ideas. If you are capable of having one great idea you can have others.

The word is….but

Students are always waiting for you to use the but word

If you use the word ‘but’ following a positive statement everything before the word is lost. It is a careless syntax. The word but is an absolute liability, remove it from your vocabulary

BEST MOMENTS

‘You can feel good for no good reason what so ever’

‘This got me a reputation for being very an interesting if a slightly odd person’

‘They saw me as someone off the wall and outside the system ‘

‘A long pause can compel the student to complete the question’

'If you are capable of having one great idea, the chances are there’s another one snuggled in behind it’

‘When you are asking for a response ask about feelings. It is less invasive than other forms of questioning ‘

‘You’re framing yourself and the lesson in an energetic and positive way’

VALUABLE RESOURCES

https://itunes.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-tutor-podcast/id1369191372?mt=2

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Weird-Things-Guitarists-Do-Misconceptions-ebook/dp/B01M2YRARG/ref=asap_bc?ie=UTF8

The Teaching Language Toolbox Part 2 - Pacing & Leading& Complex Equivalence

Mon, 11 Mar 2019 00:00:46 -0000

In this episode Neil explores pacing, leading language and complex equivalence structures.

He provides in-depth examples to demonstrate how you can make these techniques work successfully, ensuring that your students achieve the best possible outcomes.

If you want to add these language techniques to your teaching language toolbox listen in now

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Pacing, leading language and complex equivalence structures

These are really easy patterns to learn and to add to your teaching toolkit and can be used to influence your students in the direction that is most beneficial to them.

Pacing and leading language

Pacing and leading is a language pattern that utilises something that is true and provable – this is the pace part of the pattern – to suggest that the desired response will occur with a student or client.

If you provide a comment such as ‘being here on time shows you’re ready’ then the student finds it easy to relax and the idea that being on time makes you ready is plausible.

If you follow up with a few questions, you can then use another pace and lead pattern.

Chaining paces and leads together, adding humour, and setting up the next thing you want the student to do bypasses their nerves and uncertainty.

To use the pace and lead pattern, link provable facts to desirable & beneficial responses or actions with words.

Pace what is already happening, then make what you want to happen the inescapable result of what is already happening. Just add phrases such as “leads you to...causes you to...means that...makes you feel...makes you notice

Complex Equivalence

Complex Equivalence is another form of pacing and leading, but with a more direct form.

You state the pace, the thing you want them to understand or do and make a comment that positions something with a quality you want them to have.

E.g. ‘that’s a fantastic black paint job on your guitar, and black is the colour most favoured by confident, charismatic and creative people’

As tutors, teachers and coaches our job is to lead our students and clients to the very best outcome for them; and it’s a lot easier when we use unconnected but true, statements to slip past their defences.

BEST MOMENTS

‘These are really easy patterns to learn and to add to your teaching toolkit, and can be used to influence your students in the direction that is most beneficial to them’

‘If we cannot effectively communicate our ideas to our students and clients we are unlikely to be effective tutors or coaches’

‘It’s easy for students to comply with the instruction because it seems a natural progression’

‘Because I am an expert guitarist and they will accept my authority, and this will lead them to do what I have suggested’

‘Everything is a mind game, and the more skilled we are at the “mind-stuff”, the better teachers we can become”

VALUABLE RESOURCES

https://itunes.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-tutor-podcast/id1369191372?mt=2

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Weird-Things-Guitarists-Do-Misconceptions-ebook/dp/B01M2YRARG/ref=asap_bc?ie=UTF8

The Teaching Language Toolbox Part 1 - The VAKOG Model

Mon, 04 Mar 2019 00:00:20 -0000

There’s a better way on how you could tutor, teach, or coach someone… You just have to choose the right teaching language.

So, in this episode of The Tutor Podcast, Neil introduces you to the VAKOG Model of language to be effective in teaching. VAKOG stands for visual, auditory, kinaesthetic, olfactory, and gustatory which all make use of our senses. There could be a primary way that you use or it could be a combination of two or more of them. It depends on what you think could better influence your students. Discover also why you should be always receptive also of what are your students’ learning language so you’d know how to contribute more value to them.

Make sure to catch the next parts of The Teaching Language Toolbox special of the podcast!

KEY TAKEAWAYS

VAKOG is a core belief in NLP that language reflects the thoughts and way of understanding of people, and knowing this is incredibly useful when you are teaching.
VAKOG is an acronym for visual auditory kinaesthetic olfactory and gustatory – the senses of sight, sound, movement and balance, smell, and taste. These are the ways people perceive the world, and NLP refers to them as representational systems. Understanding how people represent the world to themselves is a doorway to better teaching and greater influence. We are going to use their point of view to reduce what they have to process, by eliminating the need for them to convert what we’ve said into terms they prefer.
- Visual – pictures, colours, images
- Auditory – sound, noises, music
- Kinaesthetic – movement, feelings, hot/cold
- Olfactory – smells
- Gustatory – taste
For guitar players, their best learning ways are kinaesthetic and auditory. You have to consider if you’re teaching one-on-one or a group. Maybe, you’ll have to consider visuals at first when you’re teaching a group.

BEST MOMENTS

“Whichever system you notice is being used, lean more heavily on that system and your messages will get across more quickly, more easily, and will be better understood.”
“Listen to the visual cues inside language because that’s the common thing you’ll come across.”
“Listen to the actual words that people use and they’ll tell you exactly how you speak to them.”

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

Neil Cowmeadow

info@neilcowmeadow.com

#051 The Ugly Truth about Looking Good

Mon, 25 Feb 2019 00:00:00 -0000

In this episode, Neil provides not only the detail but also the psychology around how and why you need to care about your appearance.

He explains what you can do to maximise your appeal and ensure that the all-important first impression is a good one.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

First impressions

You are judged largely on your appearance in the first 4 seconds of an encounter with someone.

You should aim to look the best you can whoever you are. Presenting yourself in the best possible way will maximise your earning ability and make you more authoritative and sales worthy. Presenting yourself properly will also increase your credibility with others.

Your physical appearance matters

This isn’t fair but as you can’t control this you need influence how you are perceived.

It is proven that people are more attracted to those who are well turned out and are physically attractive.

A positive appeal

Focus on maximising your appeal to ensure the first impression is a positive one. Whatever you are doing make sure you are well turned out.

The idea that gets into the persons' mind first will always have prima facie over anything else. It can be changed over time but it takes a long time.

Adopt a dress code for yourself and then ensure you follow it consistently. This will mean choosing clothing that positions you as an authority and trusted source of information in your area of expertise.

Special points for women

The size of a woman's bust is an influence on the way she is perceived. Women with medium sized busts are considered likeable and have greater personal appeal than those with larger or smaller busts.

Special points for men

Long hair will put you at a disadvantage and you need to ensure your clothes fit properly.

Anything unusual will cost you sales and it has been demonstrated that facial hair is not positive.

BEST MOMENTS

‘Use your body language and make sure to keep your hands ways from your hair’

‘Pause look in the mirror and ask yourself does that person look like a credible expert in the field? If they don’t go away and change something’

‘The change in the dynamic and energy when I meet new people is noticeable’

‘No joggers, no baggy tee shirts, no crazy hats’

‘People’s attention can be on your hands so they need to look presentable’

‘Don’t wear shorts guys!’

‘Keep on top of things’

‘However shallow it might be, you are more attractive if your height to weight ratio is correct’

VALUABLE RESOURCES

https://itunes.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-tutor-podcast/id1369191372?mt=2

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Weird-Things-Guitarists-Do-Misconceptions-ebook/dp/B01M2YRARG/ref=asap_bc?ie=UTF8

#050 Never Whisper - Tell The World What You Do

Mon, 18 Feb 2019 00:00:01 -0000

How can you build your profile, customer base, reputation and business – without spending a fortune on advertising that might or might not work?

Statistics say 50% of advertising works and 50% does not, In this episode Neil takes us through the right approach to building your profile, listen in to find out more

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Get noticed

You must have a profile, this is non-negotiable as no customers means you have no business. If you have more customers and more demand you can put your prices up.

Dealing with the fear

For all sorts of reasons being seen in public can be stressful. It’s important to be aware that this is natural. You’ve got to get your face out there to be known about.

Perfectionism

Perfectionism is a great lie. Every day you will use something imperfect. Once something is perfect it can’t grow any further and this is an endpoint. Perfectionism can’t survive in the world as its always changing.

Be yourself

There is nobody like you in the world. You are not trying to be like everyone else, amplify you’re your own traits to your advantage.

Get seen and get met

You are in the business of communication education and people. You must be visible repeatedly. Try to maximise the number of people who know you in a positive way.

Multiple Signage

I use various social media platforms, have a podcast series and am part of a mastermind business group. If you can get on radio or television it positions you as an expert in your field.

Digital Real estate

All social media platforms can be linked to your website. Using keywords, you can increase search optimisation. Make sure your content has keywords alongside your podcast, blog and video testimonials

Branding

This is key to the way you are perceived consistently. It is an association with the tribe who identify with you. The most important element is consistency across all products and platforms.

Marketing strategy

You must have one and it must be consistent this applies even if you work alone. Then you are ready when you do begin to build a team.

Your image

This matters immensely you need to be different enough to stand out but not so different that you are perceived as weird.

Perception is everything

People are going to judge you. You should present the best possible version of yourself.

You are the real deal, the genuine article. You can create an image around yourself that gives you the best possible chance of being perceived positively.

BEST MOMENTS

‘Don’t let haters get in your way’

'Don’t let security get in the way’

‘Don’t wait for it to be perfect’

‘I am now joyously imperfect’

'I’m passionate in my belief that anyone can play’

‘When people are looking for a guitar teacher I want them to think of me’

‘It can all be done organically’

VALUABLE RESOURCES

https://itunes.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-tutor-podcast/id1369191372?mt=2

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Weird-Things-Guitarists-Do-Misconceptions-ebook/dp/B01M2YRARG/ref=asap_bc?ie=UTF8

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

Email: info@neilcowmeadow.com

#049 Getting The Buggers To Practise

Mon, 11 Feb 2019 00:00:59 -0000

In this episode, Neil tackles the issue of ‘getting the buggers to practice’. In an online poll, it is identified as the challenge that stands between students achieving what they want to achieve and is the biggest source of frustration for their teachers.

Listen in to hear about some practical tips and strategies that will work for all your students.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

If someone is paying me money to come and spend time with me, to learn what I know, to get what they want, why are they not doing the thing that will bring them success?
Students don’t like being given orders, they see the practice as grey and boring.

I restructure the language and with younger students insist they don’t practise at all. This will result in a push back as they will want to do the opposite.

I will ask students to ‘explore this, muck about with this’

Identifying the motivator for students will enable you to get them to comply with what you want.

There are two kinds of motivation;

Motivation towards something

Motivation away from something

Away from gets you moving in the short term but try to work out what the student really wants, and then try to put in any small action that moves you in the right direction towards their goal.
I look at the long-term picture for students. I am trying to grow a love affair between them and the instrument.
One of the most compelling things you can do to gain compliance is to encourage a student to do what they want to do. Give them content that is interesting and exciting to play.
Notice what is working for them and reframe it in a positive way, being flexible in your approach. Try to make it interesting and inviting for the student.

BEST MOMENTS

‘I want them to do what they want to do’

‘We have to work on building trust’

‘Do everything you can to lower the resistance’

‘Slice it up – the thinner the slice the easier it is to get compliance’

‘Ask them to do things in very short bursts’

‘The more often a human being returns to an activity the more impact it has on progress’

‘If you push too hard you will just get ‘turn and churn’ and that’s not good for business’

VALUABLE RESOURCES

https://itunes.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-tutor-podcast/id1369191372?mt=2

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Weird-Things-Guitarists-Do-Misconceptions-ebook/dp/B01M2YRARG/ref=asap_bc?ie=UTF8

#048 The Business Mindset

Mon, 04 Feb 2019 00:00:00 -0000

THINK LIKE A BUSINESS PERSON

Neil takes us through the key points that all tutors need to follow to make sure your tutoring operates successfully as a business.

The points are an invaluable checklist for any tutor, listen in to find out more.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Developing your business mindset is key but in tutoring, the business side is usually a poor second to the technical skills and knowledge of what we all teach and do.

Profit is not a dirty word - there is nothing wrong with making money from your passion and art. Spend time with others who are making money as these are people who you can aspire to.
Get serious about your business – give the same amount of precedence to your business as you give to your area of expertise.
It’s not serious – it’s a game, it’s not personal but know the rules of the game and a playful mindset will see you through and keep you positive.
Everything is a test – if everything is working for you, you’re getting it right if not test a different business model or different advertising
Keep learning – work harder on yourself than on your business it’s the hallmark of greatness. If you look through history, continuing to develop skills and knowledge is a feature of everyone who is successful.
Develop routines – lots of teachers have a chaotic approach but a routine is a more professional approach to your business.
Build systems - set the time aside to build some systems, a crib sheet for doing the banking, a system for cleaning up the teaching space. The more systems you have the less you have to carry around in your head.
Know your numbers - you must know the revenue, costs and profits for your business. If you are not monitoring them how will you know how to improve?
When you work, work hard - extract the most from your time because it can be very well-paid hard work or ok paid hard work.
Play as hard as you work - I work long hours but I love what I do.
Celebrate life – if you’re getting paid for doing what you love – you’re one of the luckiest people alive...

BEST MOMENTS

‘I don’t want to guess about my business’

‘The time not face to face with students is a drag on my time’

‘Find time to read, to keep your knowledge up to date’

‘Every guitarist has a bag of tricks’

‘I will work for 7 or 8 hours a day across the same time slots, that’s my routine a daily routine is key’

‘Keep testing it’s a neutral process’

‘Get your business head on you can do it’

VALUABLE RESOURCES

https://itunes.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-tutor-podcast/id1369191372?mt=2

Neil Cowmeadow - Weird Things Guitarists Do

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

Email: info@neilcowmeadow.com

#047 The Joy of Scheduling

Mon, 28 Jan 2019 00:00:00 -0000

In today’s episodes, Neil dives into the joys of scheduling and why scheduling is essential in both your tutoring business and in life. If you’re looking to impose order on the chaos, plan your activities and make your business fun. This episode is for you.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Why is schedule important? If what you do is chaotic, you're going to be out of order, up to the range and stressed. For you to succeed in life you need to have a schedule in your life and as a result, everything will go as planned. Use a schedule to impose order on the chaos.
We need enough order to keep things sort of predictable, so we have a sense of control and that’s why we need scheduling in our day to day activities.
Scheduling helps you to work in a good environment; this should allow you to control your interaction.
Scheduling helps you to be you because when you schedule correctly, you will be able to do the things you want to do in the right time and will have a lot of time to spend with yourself and even your friends and family. If it’s not fun you should not do it.
Scheduling will help you plan your money and invest it in the right manner hence helping you to build your own business where you will be able to work from home, hence no booking appointments, damaging things, not wearing the car out while travelling from home to your workplace, not burning gas and not spending time in traffic and this should lower your overheads. You’re not spending money repairing a car so much, you’re not putting as much gas in the tank, you do not have to buy food while at work and that should make you more profitable.
Scheduling helps you to do small jobs around the business. With scheduling, you are able to plan yourself and have things done very fast.
Make what you do fun because if you make it fun, it will entertain a lot of people and you will make a lot of money from people by just entertaining them. Make it fun for your customers, it'll be fun for you and you'll stop working, you'll just hang out with your friends and do what you do and get paid for it. Aim to keep it fun, keep it entertaining, it then becomes for your customers more of a leisure activity.

BEST MOMENTS

“Everything you do is going to be a personal choice.”
“If it’s not fun you should not do it.”
“You can't put a price on your time”
“Time is the most important and most limited resource we all have.”

VALUABLE RESOURCES

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

info@neilcowmeadow.com

#046 How to Handle Your Enquiry Calls

Mon, 21 Jan 2019 00:00:00 -0000

In this episode, Neil explains how an enquiry call can finish with confirmed tuition and payment if you follow a set operating procedure. This step by step approach can help anyone who is a tutor successfully navigate the enquiry call and gain new clients.

Listen in now to make sure your next tuition enquiry is a new client for you.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Having a standard operating procedure is useful to ensure everything required is dealt with during the initial enquiry call.
Every enquiry call has an aim – the aim for an enquiry call is that the caller books and confirms first lesson at the current rate for the tuition by the end of the call.
Answer the phone with a smile, people can hear a smile on the phone and respond in a much more positive way.
Taking notes during the call is key to ensuring you have all the information necessary. You are aiming to capture specific communication information.
Use the caller’s name at every opportunity and echo their words back to them throughout the conversation.
Ask questions that have the answer yes, these are referred to as ‘yes set questions’ and are refining questions which move the enquirer closer to saying yes.
Once payment has been made the call is completed. An immediate follow up via text and email with specific details, confirm both the payment and lesson schedule.
Sending a reminder 24 hours and 2 hours prior to the lesson will position you as an expert and professional.

BEST MOMENTS

‘People can hear a smile on the phone’

‘Echo it straight back to them – fabulously powerful technique’

‘Start to close small and often’

‘Try to remove the agony of choice’

‘Having a set procedure is so much better’

VALUABLE RESOURCES

www.Neilcowmeadow.com

The Tutor Podcast series

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

Email

#045 Courage!

Mon, 14 Jan 2019 00:00:00 -0000

COURAGE - WHAT IT IS AND WHY IT’S IMPORTANT

This episode helps us all to acknowledge fear and then push past it to achieve our goals. Neil puts fear into perspective and explains how we all have the courage to move onwards and upwards when we take action.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Everyone can face fear, especially when tackling something new or more complex.
Overcoming the fear and moving forward will confirm the benefits of doing something new and show that the fear was unfounded.
Fear is often experienced when you;

Break new ground

Launch a new product

Adopt a new approach

Step up and take action

Lay yourself open to the judgement of other people

Do anything that moves you from your current state to a higher state...

Fear and Courage

Fear is what malevolently stands between you and I and what we want.
Courage is not the absence of fear - Courage is the ability to act, even in the face of fear.
A strong will or sufficient motivation can provoke you to take action despite your fear.
Facing down your fear or – better still – harnessing it to your service is what courage is all about.
Dealing with the dread and liberating yourself from fear requires courage. Taking the action that the fear is trying to divert you from is courage.

So, what are you waiting for?!

Your greatest fear shouldn’t be writing that book, starting that business or asking for that date. No! Your greatest fear should be that the clock is ticking and that your life is shortening at an alarming rate.

When your time approaches, you should be able to look back on your life and marvel at how much you got done, in spite of all the adversity and fear.

The only person whose consent you need is yourself: give yourself permission.

Accountability
Tell someone what you are going to do – preferably someone who will consistently hold you to account if you don’t take action.

Consider posting your intentions into your social media groups or timelines, publicly commit to delivering the book/product or opening the business on a certain date: then make sure you live up to it and deliver.

Hire a coach – preferably a really expensive coach – to hold you accountable. Your coach’s fees should hurt a little – or a lot - enough that you’re going to take action or else have to resign yourself to just throwing that money away.

Whatever it takes – commit yourself, preferably publicly, financially and irrevocably to action.

Whether it’s the Pull of your mission or the Push away from a significant loss, find out what gets you moving.

Sooner or later, someone will take that action: shouldn’t that someone be you?

Fear can live with everything apart from consistent action in the direction of your goals and dreams. Fear is checking if you’re serious and eliminating your competition, handle the fear and you handle life.

BEST MOMENTS

‘Fear imprisons us and then waits for us to die’

‘So, what are you waiting for?’

‘The only thing stopping you is you’

‘Maybe we should put our own fears into some kind of perspective’

‘The secret is to acknowledge the fear, thank it for offering its opinion, then tell it to take a hike as you march towards your fate’

‘Don’t wait until your work is perfect – it’ll never be perfect. Perfection is sterile and produces nothing until it begins to decay’

VALUABLE RESOURCES

Neil Cowmeadow - Weird Things Guitarists Do

www.Neilcowmeadow.com

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

Email: info@neilcowmeadow.com

#044 Interview With NLP Master John Cassidy-Rice

Tue, 08 Jan 2019 00:00:00 -0000

To ensure that your student gets the best learning experience, the educators – tutors, teachers, lecturers, etc. – should be able to communicate effectively and efficiently.

So, in today’s episode of The Tutor Podcast, I talk to a good friend of mine, John Cassidy-Rice, about the Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP) and how it can improve the way we communicate and teach our students.

NLP techniques can help enhance every student’s performance. Even John himself, who has dyslexia, shares that he benefitted from NLP. Aside from personal stories, John also shares the top 3 NLP-based key strategies that tutors can use. Don’t also forget to check out his NLP courses after you listen to this episode!

KEY TAKEAWAYS

What is NLP? It stands for Neuro-Linguistic Programming. Neuro refers to all 5 senses, Linguistic refers to the languages and gestures, and Programming refers to putting them both together to produce positive results.
John runs an NLP training company that offers a 2-day introductory course which can help you change your beliefs and learn how to communicate with yourself and others.
John says NLP helped him with his dyslexia. Of course, there are still challenges with communicating, reading and writing but, he was able to do more. John has published 4 books as of lately.
Top 3 NLP-based Key Strategies According to John
- Salience x Repetition = Learning
- Update your identity of who you see yourself as.
- Reframe: ‘how we think’, not ‘what we think.’

BEST MOMENTS

“What is the difference that makes the difference?” – John
“NLP form has been a toolbox… a go-to toolbox where I can unpick not only how I think, how I play and how the other people play, but how my students limit themselves in the way that they think about music, about playing and about their own abilities.” – Neil
“Anything that can hold you back can actually be your strength at the same time.” – John
“Change your thinking; change your response.” – John

VALUABLE RESOURCES

Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP)
com
Unlock The Power Of Stories: Change Your Story Change Your Life by John Cassidy-Rice
David and Goliath: Underdogs, Misfits, and the Art of Battling Giants by Malcolm Gladwell
Neil Cowmeadow - Weird Things Guitarists Do
Neilcowmeadow.com

ABOUT THE HOST

ABOUT THE GUEST

John Cassidy-Rice is an NLP Master Trainer. He runs Training Excellence, a company that focuses on the human approach of training. He helps organisations and other companies improve leadership and communication among the people. John has also published 4 books. He recently released his latest book, Unlock The Power of Stories: Change Your Story, Change Your Life.

CONTACT METHOD

Neil Cowmeadow

info@neilcowmeadow.com

John Cassidy- Rice

#043 All I Want For Christmas Is...

Mon, 24 Dec 2018 00:00:00 -0000

DESCRIPTION

In this podcast Neil highlights the ways in which undertaking a Christmas strategic planning retreat can be invaluable for the coming year. He shares with us the ways we can take an opportunity to ‘just breathe’ and how doing this provides clarity and insight that could change your life forever.

KEY TAKE AWAYS

Christmas is a funny time

In the tutoring game everything is disrupted, your students might be away, and other things might shut down.

You can embrace it in by responding in either a positive or negative way. A positive response recognises it’s an opportunity to step back, review and reflect.

Make the most of the festive holiday

Catch up with friends that you might have neglected, it can be easy to lose contact with people if you don’t make the effort.

Take care of maintenance jobs such as decorating cleaning and re-organising. Complete those jobs that can be challenging to undertake with students about.

Take the opportunity to get away from your desk and think

Plan some time to think about the direction you want your business to go in. stepping away provides invaluable perspective

Look to the future

What do you want to achieve? How much do you want to earn?

Create a road map and time line, planning your journey to achieve what you want. Often, the best ideas come when you are not at work – you can create a safe space for them to land when away from your desk.

Go somewhere beautiful and special and get inspired

BEST MOMENTS

“I kind of treat every day above ground as a special day, so I have 364 more special days than the folks who save their special day status up for December 25th.”

“That’s how I got the idea to get outdoors and get away from my desk.”

“Go somewhere beautiful/elegant/special and get inspired”

“For years I’ve spent Christmas morning either mountain biking, hiking, or climbing.”

“Universe reminding me that time is passing”

VALUABLE RESOURCES

ABOUT THE HOST

Neil Cowmeadow is a maverick peripatetic guitar teacher from Telford with over 19 years experience in the business of helping people. Learn how to start, grow and love your business with Neil’s invaluable advice and tips without the buzzwords and BS!

CONTACT METHOD

#042 Getting Organised

Mon, 17 Dec 2018 00:00:00 -0000

In the latest episode of The Tutor Podcast, your Monday Morning shot of uncommon sense for people in the business of helping others through tutoring, teaching and coaching, Neil discusses organisation. What is being organised? Why it makes such a big difference to you and your business and how you too, can implement Neils ideas to starting getting more organised right away!

Organisation isn’t a bad thing, it frees you to get on with the teaching and making a difference. It shows up in how you teach and how you are perceived, so make the effort to become organised because it makes everything else run more smoothly, both day-to-day and week to week. This then adds up to easier months and years and the successful running of your Tutoring business.

Remember, learn how to start, grow and love your Tutor Business.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Organisation should be a given but there are a lot of tutors that sort of moved sideways into the business of teaching. Particularly music and arts-types of teachers, they are prone to chaos.
Know what needs done, If you don’t know, you can’t do it. So capture a list, post It on a wall calendar to shape the plan and create a default.
If you’re disorganised/chaotic, it undermines your credibility – you’re perceived as an amateur and It devalues you in the marketplace. This affects your ability to charge at a higher rate if you appear to be a chaotic amateur. Remember that the reverse is also true

If you get organised your days were more productive and you’ll have less embarrassing pile-ups and conflicts. You’ll see and experience fewer voids and as a result, earn more money! Plus, teaching will become even more fun.

Time organisation

Daily – the up and down, nuts and bolts of your day.

Small tasks
Teaching sessions
Cash management
Clean-ups
Safety checks
Anything you do daily

Weekly – the blocky shape of your week

Planning next week
Which days you work
Holes in the schedule
Checking the bank
Cleaning up and putting petrol in the car
Banking cash receipts
All the things you do once a week

Monthly – the lumpy tasks that need to be taken care of

Book-keeping – if you don’t outsource it
Bank reconciliation
Cash flow management
Management accounts
Expenses payments – mileage, use of your home office etc
Maintenance
Yearly – the big humps to get over
Final accounts
Tax filing – personal tax self-assessment
Corporation tax
VAT if relevant
Dividends
Strategic planning
Vision for your business

BEST MOMENTS

“The idea that systems suppress creativity – nonsense! A routine or system gives you a framework in which you can be more creative because you’re not struggling to manage chaos.”

“Organisation isn’t a bad thing – it frees you to get on with the teaching and making a difference.”

“A well-organised space and approach makes for a better student experience”
“I could raise my prices because I was perceived as being more professional and thus as more valuable to my students.”

“Be aware that how you are perceived – chaotic amateur or organised professional – will make a difference.”

VALUABLE RESOURCES

#013 The Tutor Podcast - Episode on Pricing

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

#041 What Makes You Special - Your USP

Mon, 10 Dec 2018 00:00:00 -0000

Welcome back to the Tutor Podcast. In today’s episode, Neil dives into your USP. Your Unique Selling Proposition. This is that special thing about you that makes you so attractive to your customers and gives you the advantage over your competitors. So what’s your USP? Tune in today, to find out more.

Remember, learn how to start, grow and love your Tutor Business.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Your USP is that special weird odd little thing about you that makes you different and gives you an advantage over your competitors. It’s what helps you stand out.
Everything about you is your USP. This can be your culture, your background, your heritage. Anything.
A unique selling proposition is a factor that differentiates a product from its competitors, such as the lowest cost, the highest quality or the first-ever product of its kind. A USP could be thought of as “what you have that competitors don't.
Your own teaching system and learning system are all part of your unique learning experience and it is that you can use to create better products and services for your customers and clients and gain an advantage over the competition.

BEST MOMENTS

“It’s to our advantage if there is something quirky or different about us.”

“Your USP will help to make you the teacher and the tutor you are today.”

“Your experiences in life will help to mould your USP.”

VALUABLE RESOURCES

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

#040 Pensions and Life After Work

Mon, 03 Dec 2018 00:00:00 -0000

In this episode, Neil dives into Retirement and Pensions for Tutors, and how you too can look at the alternative ways of creating your own personal pension scheme. Securing your financial future and figuring out where your cashflow will come from after retirement can be daunting, but if you invest in property, create evergreen products and venture into long-term asset growth potential, you can beat the pension trap and live a comfortable retirement.

Pension payouts are in decline but opportunities for cashflow are everywhere and today, Neil shares with you his own retirement plan and money pot he’ll be drawing from if he ever chooses to retire.

Remember, learn how to start, grow and love your Tutor Business.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Traditionally, you spent a lifetime contributing to a pension scheme either in the workplace or a state pension and at a certain age you retire from work and start receiving payments from the scheme. But here’s the thing: that model is, if not dead, definitely mortally wounded. It’s Bankrupt system with liabilities that exceed assets and cashflows. This is why retirement ages are being ratcheted up.
If you have been saving for life after work, and have amassed a big fat pot you can add to that state pension – it’s about £5400 for every 100k in your pot – think long and hard if that’s going to add up to enough income. How many of us have saved 4-500k and can look forward to a comfortable retirement?

What to do?

Either get busy with building a pension pot in a SIPP – self-invested personal pension or – if you are a limited company, a SSAS. Speak to your accountant or professional adviser about the pros and cons of these schemes.

Assess situation – get real – your indolence/neglect are coming to bite you in the arse
Make a plan – no plan is not an option – consider all options
Take action – pensions and retirement were so remote
The longer you wait, the harder it will be
Have an exit strategy

What Neil Does

“I buy properties – long term growth potential – rental income (reinvest this, it’s not for spending) – a legacy – and I’m helping people by providing homes that are safe and where my tenants have a secure home. I’ve been doing it for a couple of years and it’s been hard work, but I’m seeing decent returns and I’m looking forward to adding to my portfolio for the next 10-20 years.”

BEST MOMENTS

“There’s a world of difference between Getting Old and Growing Up – but only one is optional.”

“The future is coming – for us all. How it goes is a matter of choice.

“What would have given you a decent pension income a couple of decades ago produces only a pittance now.”

VALUABLE RESOURCES

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

#039 Setting Your Stage

Mon, 26 Nov 2018 00:00:00 -0000

This episode is all about Setting Your Stage and how planning and presenting your location and premises can create a deep first impression for your students. You can have powerful positive, and powerful negative effects, depending on how you handle your stage and position your business.

Remember, learn how to start, grow and love your Tutor Business.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Location is vital. If you don’t have premises yet, look for access, prominence, landmarks, passing traffic, parking and a separation from your home life. If you have premises make sure the appearance is good, with signage, distinguishing features and is safe for student access with pathways, steps, ramps and handrails.
First impressions last so create and manage your stage because you will be judged, whatever happens, and be sure to back up what you say with the way you do it, every time.
Making the environment comfortable is key. So, ensure that your teaching room is light with adjustable seating and the comfort of your student is a top priority.
Always be helpful and keep a stock of strings, picks, stationery, etc that students might need to buy.

Key internal issues:

Safety of students and yourself – injuries are bad for business.
Safety of your gear – get it PAT tested and make sure it’s all well maintained.
Colour scheme – neutral and bright.
Keep it tidy and thoughtfully laid-out.
Waiting area with easy access to the toilet.
Have a ground floor teaching room with everything set-up and ready to roll.
Keep it consistent – change is distracting for students, so keep the layout the same/similar. This is also an anchor for both the student and yourself and establishes credibility.
Display framed Certificates/ degrees/diplomas that help suggest intellectual rigour.
Display “Bling” with pictures with known figures/faces and also have product examples such as books and CD’s readily available.

BEST MOMENTS

“Environment matters as much to you as to your customers”

“Get a cleaner – it’s tax deductible and is less than your teaching rate, isn’t it? That’s leverage!”

“Create a feeling of ease and confidence”

VALUABLE RESOURCES

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

#038 Your Daily Journal

Mon, 19 Nov 2018 00:00:00 -0000

If you don’t have a daily journal routine, get one. Over time the effect is large and noticeable and you’ll feel more positive, get more done, and like yourself more. In today’s episode, Neil talks about your daily journal and shares with you, what they are, why they work and how to start your own.

Remember, learn how to start, grow and love your Tutor Business.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

On both a personal and business level your journal will be worth its weight in gold. Without my own journal, it would have been a lot harder to write a couple of books, double my guitar tutoring business, begin building my property portfolio and start a coaching/mentoring business.
So what is a journal? It’s a brief daily routine that’s consistent and personal and forms part of a habit system
Why journals work - It begins and ends your day and helps to crystallise the lessons and insights learned throughout your days, weeks and months. Journals allow you to find patterns of what works and what doesn’t work.
Journals foster a sense of gratitude and pre-frame the day, priming our sorting tendencies in a directed way to keeps you positive, maintains focus and holds you to account.

Neils Journal:

An A5 Black & Red hardcover notebook
Daily entries, once in the morning, once at night
Fast, simple and consistent.

BEST MOMENTS

“That’s the real value day to day of the journal: it primes your mind and sets you off in the right direction.”

“Thank your lucky stars you’re alive every day and enjoy your life a good bit more than you expect to.”

“I can vouch for the power of journaling – I’ve kept mine for the last 5 years, during which time it has kept me focused, positive and committed to my work and personal vision.”

“Countless famous and successful people have kept a daily journal, either as a stand-alone book or as part of a diary and time management system.”

VALUABLE RESOURCES

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

#037 - Passive Income for Tutors

Mon, 12 Nov 2018 00:00:00 -0000

Hi, it’s Neil here with Episode 37 of The Tutor Podcast – And today we’re going to be talking about PASSIVE INCOME – in other words, how to get paid for doing nothing or whilst you’re asleep.

For many of us in the tutoring and coaching business, our focus is on attracting students and clients. We want to be booked solid and perhaps even have a waiting list of potential customers for what we do.

Don’t get me wrong here – because if you are booked-solid with great people, it’s a fantastic position to be in – I’m not disparaging that business model in the slightest – after all, that’s the model I used to escape from my day job in finance and double my income, then treble it.

But here’s the thing: the booked-solid model is capped. I don’t care how you slice and dice it; there are only so many hours in a day that you can teach. Everything is limited - by either how much you can charge, and how many hours you can work.

So one of the best things you can do as a business owner is to add more streams of income to your business. The very best way to do this is to create income streams that require no time input from you once they are set up.

Once set up, each stream adds to your cashflow, and the best part about this idea is that everything is cumulative. Most people seem to think in terms of doing only one thing, but if you can change that and ask yourself “what else can I add?” you can – over time – create a confluence of income streams. Individually they may not be significant, but when you add them all up and keep adding additional streams, they can generate significant additional income with virtually zero time or money from you.

Adding more and more income streams works – in the last two years I’ve added multiple passive income strategies that run around my teaching business. They don’t take much time – a few hours a month - and they generate profits equivalent to 9 days full-time tutoring per month.

Now, if I can do it, anybody can. So here’s an overview of some additional income streams you can add to your teaching business

Other people – but there’s a caveat here – people need more time than things

Assistant instructor
Associates who pay you for leads you don’t want, eg out of your area, poor match for what you do,

Franchise your systems – if what you do is unique, proven, profitable and teachable – can you franchise it? McDonalds works this way – it sells turnkey business systems to franchisees, and receives royalties thereafter. Once you’ve created the system, you can sell it to other people who want to do what you do.
Create products – a long tail. Create once and sell forever with evergreen content

Books – words are free, and you can always make more
Audio programmes – read your own books/sessions and sell the recordings
Courses – package your way of teaching for people unable to get to you
Music – song writing royalties. You don’t need to be the star yourself.
Merchandise – design your own T-shirts, caps, and have someone else make and ship them
Teaching tools – any special gadgets, graphics or gizmos you’ve invented?

All of these have a halo effect – positioning you as an expert in the marketplace.

Rent out your teaching space – if you own it

My studio – trusted friends only on this one
Spare rooms – you can earn up to £8000 per year tax free by renting a room in your own home.
Teaching room -
Home office – my friend likes to work here when I’m teaching
Parking space – I rent out the allocated space at one of my properties where the tenant doesn’t drive. This is worth a rent rise of 11% on the flat and requires zero input from me, because it’s all done via a 3rd party website.

Hire out your gear

My PA system for example – my friend’s bands and the local Am-Dram group hire out my PA system. 10 minutes pick-up, 10 minutes drop-off
My wireless system and one of my digital recorders – a trainer uses it to record her speeches and presentations

Property investment

good if you have the funds
can be leveraged, multiplying returns
Can be profitable, despite tax changes
Aim for cashflow – capital growth is not within your control
You’re acquiring an asset, possibly for life
Possibly building a legacy for your kids
Crowdfunding – as an investor or promoter of an offer
Consider partnering-up with someone trustworthy or experienced
IMPORTANT: do your homework! I’m amazed how many people I’ve met who want to get into property investing who’ve never even cracked a book on the subject and who don’t have a clue about what they are about to commit a lot of money to.

Affiliate programmes

Sell for other people
Halo marketing – other people’s reputation around you
Free, so it’s good if you have little or no money to start
Amazon, Audible, Ebay and many others
You get a unique link to add to our posts, emails and shares – any click thoughts which result in a sale generate an affiliate fee – often it’s not limited to your recommended products, it’s for anything bought within a given time period, a day or two, a week, month or several months; it’s all yours.
Share on your social media, Twitter, faceBook, LinkedIn, Instagram, Snapchat etc

White-label goods

Amazon strategy
Research the market
Find a product
Design the packaging
Locate a manufacture
Order some product and have Amazon fulfil the delivery and logistics

Whatever you are going to sell or market, you must be ethical. Do not endorse or sell crap – only endorse and market what you believe in and know to be good.

Here’s a great tip for you: once a month, sit down and write at the top of a sheet of A4 “How can I add another income stream to my business?” and make yourself stay in the chair, answering that question until you have at least 30 ideas that you can consider. Do this every month and take action!

If you can add an extra £50 a month to your income, every month for a year it’s not much, adding just £600 a month to your bottom line. But what happens if you keep on doing it every month for 5 years? That would add £3000 to your monthly income – might that make a difference to your business and your financial well-being?

Now imagine adding £100 extra per month to your income, and double those numbers up...

Remember, it’s not rocket science – it’s just stuff you haven’t thought about, yet...

So, that’s my ten cents’ worth on PASSIVE INCOME... Let me know what caught your ear in this episode and how you get on putting the ideas to work in your business. What have you learned from outside of your field that made you a better tutor?

I’d love to hear it, so send them in to me, because I’m here to learn, too.

Just send them to info@neilcowmeadow.com.

In the next episode we’ll be talking about a Daily Journals – a vital weapon in the daily battle for your mind. Find out how this simple routine can set up your day for excellence and round it all off at the end of the day.

Until then, remember to subscribe to The Tutor Podcast and get all the updates and more tips to help you to Start, Grow and Love Your Tutoring Business.

So join me - Neil Cowmeadow - for the next episode of The Tutor Podcast - Have a Fabulous Day!

#036 Wider Learning

Mon, 05 Nov 2018 00:00:00 -0000

Welcome back to another edition of The Tutor Podcast. Today, Neil discusses wider learning and why it’s vital to go outside of the wider confines of your field and continuously learn, grow and develop your tutoring skills. We need to always update our skill set and stay open to new ideas because if you’re not learning you’re going backwards.

Remember, learn how to start, grow and love your Tutor Business.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

We need to be aware of the things that are happening outside of our field. We can learn from, borrow or just steal useful ideas, so why would we stay within the confines of our own tutoring field?
Wider learning gives a better background and context for what we do. Remember nothing that you teach and nothing that you do exists in isolation, it needs to be plugged into other areas. By wider learning, we can synthesise, blend and merge ideas into hybrids and new ideas and as a result, improve our teaching.
If you have ideas that others don’t have, you will have a competitive advantage and also have a plethora of comparisons that you can draw on to approach teaching in your business. By wider learning, you will understand the variety of teaching techniques and approaches you can use to become a better tutor.
It’s our duty as teachers to not only use the best practices but to continuously challenges them. To refine, improve and innovate on what we do.

Always be learning
Work harder on yourself than you do on anything else
Stay playful

BEST MOMENTS

You can challenge conventional wisdom if you have a wider knowledge because conventional wisdom is nothing by accepted aggregated prejudices by people with the loudest voices.
The best thing about wider learning is that it keeps you interested in what you’re doing.
One of the main reasons to keep on learning is because the answers have changed.
When you have a narrower view you have fewer options.

VALUABLE RESOURCES

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

#035 Entrenched Student Beliefs

Mon, 29 Oct 2018 00:00:00 -0000

Welcome back to another edition of The Tutor Podcast. Today, Neil dives into entrenched student beliefs, how you can discover them and why you need to defeat them. Your student's belief system is one of the toughest obstacles to learning and you need to overcome this in your teaching room.

Learn how to harness, redirect and subvert or eliminate your student’s beliefs, so that you can become a better tutor and they can become a better student. Tune in to hear Neil explain how to identify them, how to elicit them and how to deal with, your student’s belief system.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

What people do in their day jobs will cross over into their personal lives. So if we as teachers can understand how your students think and how they work you can harness the power of parrels between their job. You will discover that certain students with certain jobs will take to learning in different ways. Some better than others.
Listen, identify and modify your student's beliefs and build up enough evidence through teaching and conversing that their old belief system falls down.
Student beliefs are important because it defines their actions and defines their identity. A students belief system will govern their decisions.

BEST MOMENTS

“Make sure you always have a notebook open in your teaching room. Capture your great ideas.”

“The word ‘But’ negates anything that’s come before it. Don’t use this when teaching. Use words like ‘Yet’ to give hope and praise to your students.”

“Knowledge is all learning.”

“People run the same beliefs in their personal life, that they do in their day job.”

VALUABLE RESOURCES

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

#034 Your Elevator Pitch

Sun, 21 Oct 2018 23:00:00 -0000

Today, Neil discusses YOUR elevator pitch. Learn how to express what you do and attract Interest, people and sales to your business by nailing your very own powerful pitch. Discover what an elevator pitch really is, why you must have one and what it can do for your business. Having the right pitch allows you to completely change the perception of your audience about what you do, how you do it and how it can benefit them. Tune in today to answer one of the most common questions you’ll ever be asked: “What do you do?”

KEY TAKEAWAY

By having an elevator pitch you will never miss an opportunity again. You’ll be able to make your audience aware what you do and ensure you're known you how you want to be known. Forces you to clarify and define why you are the only logical choice for your target demographic and why you are the best at what you do.
In the first 30 seconds of your pitch, you should tell your audience; what you do, the benefits of choosing you or your business, how you do it and deliver it, why you are different and why you are the only choice for them.
Remember that the aim of the elevator pitch isn’t usually to make a sale, but to initiate your sales process that begins at the level of interest. It positions you in the audience’s mind and gives you a platform to convey your unique value to the audience

Neil’s Elevator Pitch

“Well, I get paid to hang out with my friends and play the guitar all day – at least, that’s what it feels like. You see, I help people to rapidly learn to play the guitar and make music, using a unique, simple system and an unconventional approach to bypass boring, old-fashioned music teaching with its endless scales and dull practice routines.

But, best of all, I only ever work with people I like: selected students on a one-to-one basis, and I hand-craft every lesson to fit each individual student – and that saves them years of hard work and frustration, which is important because life’s too precious and too short to learn slowly, isn’t it?”

BEST MOMENTS

“A bad elevator pitch is probably better than no elevator pitch at all. Start now, and work on it over time.”

“Your elevator pitch will change over time, as you change and your business evolves and grows, as the context of your business changes.”

An elevator pitch is a planned and rehearsed speech and should be ready on cue, crafted, tested and revised.

VALUABLE RESOURCES

#010 “Your Ideal Student”

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

#033 Holidays...The Upsides of Downtime

Sun, 14 Oct 2018 23:00:00 -0000

In today’s episode, Neil discusses holidays and dives into the upsides and downsides of taking a break and the effects it can have on your tutoring business. Discover how to remain productive and effective throughout the holiday periods and how you too, can use this downtime to your advantage and leverage the free pockets of time to think about the future and strategically plan ahead.

Tune in today to hear Neil talk holidays and what the positives and negatives can mean for your businesses.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Toughest Tutoring Times:

Voids
Cashflow is down
Crisis of belief in students returning
Aimlessness

During The Long, Holidays Consider These Questions

Long-term – is there anything you’d rather be doing than tutoring?
Is there anything that is as rewarding as teaching the subjects you love to people you like?
Is there a more fun way to make a really good living?
So what can you do during the time your friends (by which he meant students) are away to make it even better when they come back?
Holidays are blessing and a curse, as individuals and tutors it’s up to us to choose which aspect dominates our thinking. The above powerful re-framing questions will help you to ride-out the disruption and downsides of holidays, and help you keep an eye on what’s good about it all.
A forced break such as religious holidays or bank holiday is vital and it gives us the chance to review and take stock of where we are and how we’re doing in our tutoring business. It allows us to think about what we’d like to change and gives us time to ask ourselves: What’s working well? What’s not working? And lets us consider what we can; start doing, keep doing or stop doing. Forced holidays are a strategic planning opportunity for our business.
During the holidays the opportunity cost of bunking-off to attend courses is lower because you’re sacrificing lower revenue at this time. Use holidays as an opportunity to learn/travel and try something different and develop products or services and get busy marketing yourself.
Every six months, set aside at least one day to process everything in your business and to review and plan. This will give you the vital mindspace to create a plan and take the first action to achieve that plan.

BEST MOMENTS

“Personally, I’d rather be getting fired up than chilled out”

“Taking myself away from the thing that I love to do, is a less effective use of my time”

“During forced breaks the pressure to produce and earn is off, there’s nothing we can do about it, so take a step back and look into the future and ask yourself if what you see there is what you want”

“If you don’t plan, you’re going to be buffeted around by circumstances because you don’t have a course to stick to”

“Holidays break nice and regular routines which are carefully built up over the years”

VALUABLE RESOURCES

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

#032 Mood Hoovers and Time Vampires

Sun, 07 Oct 2018 23:00:00 -0000

In today’s edition, your host Neil Cowmeadow discusses how to manage mood hoovers and time vampires in your life and in your business. Mood hoovers are the people who suck the life of positivity out of you, while the time vampires are like mood hoovers. They suck the time out of your life. Neil shares his own experience and tips on how to manage these types of people in your life and as a result, you will have more time for the important things that will help you and your business.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Mood Hoovers. These are the type of people who suck the optimism out of you. They have so little enthusiasm, energy and life in them. You either eliminate them or manage your interactions with them.
People who make negative comments about successful people. They’re not going to be entrepreneurial. They usually will be unsuccessful and they will often have low expectations and aspirations in life. They make for some generally quite unhappy people. They’re always up for a pity party, and they will always try rubbing it in when are things going badly for them by inviting you to compete in the game of "Oh, you think that's bad? Guess what happened to me."
Mood hoovers go on a holiday to escape their reality. Never try to drag a mood hoover with you. They'll be very resistant to change because they are not based on hard evidence, this makes them immune to logic and not susceptible to reasonable argument. So just don't even try. You can point them to where they need to go but never drag them with you because they’ll just keep on complaining and moaning, etc.
Time Vampires. Like mood hoovers, they suck the time out of you. They are the type of people who come to your house unannounced and unprepared and just blabber away with things and events that you don’t even have an interest in or have influence over. We have to keep these sorts of things at bay so we can focus on the things that produce results for us.
You need to develop a few strategies and tactics to handle the mood hoovers and the time vampires. And these techniques tend to work for both of them.
Hint one: Turn the bloody phone off. If turning the phone off is unthinkable, at least consider putting the phone in a different part of the house. You have to limit the hours on your phone, keep everything work-related during working hours.
If you accidentally answer your phone, first thing is to tell the person calling you that you have a few minutes on the phone and stick to it. Or inform them that you will call them back if it is really difficult to manage.
Hint two: Discourage people from visiting without warning. If they come and visit you, keep them at your doorstep because it is very hard to keep them away once they are inside your house. If they are there about business, ask them if they have managed to research the background and if they already have the planning on the subject matter, they usually don’t, it is a waste of time to talk about something that they have not researched about yet.
Hint three: Hide your car, in the cul-de-sac. It will give the visitors an idea that you are not inside the house. If all fails, turn off the doorbell.
Define boundaries within which you interact with other people. You have to train them. So they know what's acceptable to us. Because if we don't train them, then nothing will change, and that problem person will continue to hoover at your positivity, stealing chunks of your time, and leave you feeling deflated and defeated.

BEST MOMENTS

"You get the people you wanna settle for in life and in your business. You may have to eliminate a few folks if you can't manage your interactions with them."
“We have to be particularly aware of spending time with anyone around us who makes negative comments about successful people because you can bet your bottom dollar that what they say about successful people now is what they'll say about you when you become successful.”
“When people tell you, you can't and it's not gonna work, it just means that they don't know how to do it.”
“The very most important thing of all is to quarantine yourself away from the mood hoovers and time vampires and making yourself hard to reach. This means screen the calls but only if you absolutely positively cannot turn the phone completely off.”

VALUABLE RESOURCES

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

#031 Shiny Penny Syndrome

Mon, 01 Oct 2018 23:00:00 -0000

In today’s edition, your host Neil Cowmeadow discusses the trap of Shiny Penny Syndrome. No matter how happy and successful you are, we can all be sucked into the vortex of new ideas and schemes that look so tempting. Shiny Penny Syndrome is the constant jumping of attention and focus, from one new thing to the next, leading to distraction and loss of direction, and in today’s episode, Neil shares with you an eight-point checklist to stay on track, and on the road to success.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

It’s a human characteristic to be curious. We are, at our core, a species that just can’t stop investigating and exploring the world around us – that’s the key to all technology, inventions and progress.
But here’s the thing about our curiosity: we can harness it to accelerate our progress along the right road, rather than allow it to distract us.
This approach also gives me a fair bit of latitude in taking on new things, but at the same time, it keeps me grounded in my one big thing. As long as any new thing checks out as complementary with my Big Thing, I can do it.
The “Do anything as long as it helps the Big Thing” approach allows you the freedom to do new things, whilst keeping you on track with the main thing you want to achieve.
There is always an opportunity cost in doing anything. Whatever you decide to do, you’ll always have to sacrifice something else in order to do that thing – what you give up is the cost of taking up that new opportunity.
Always make sure you’ve done a proper analysis of the potential upsides and the potential downsides of a new activity before committing time and money to it.

Shiny Penny Syndrome Checklist:

Will this new thing (XYZ) help me to progress toward my Definite Major Purpose?
If so, is it a good time to start? If it is not, diarise a review of the situation in 6 months. Review everything every 6 months as a matter of urgency.
How much time will XYZ take away from my core activities?
Will time spent on XYZ produce a better return on investment than anything else you could do?
Can you afford to do XYZ?
Can you afford to NOT do XYZ?
To whom can you outsource XYZ?
Do you really want to do XYZ for the right reasons?

BEST MOMENTS

“I go a mile deep or more in my one Big Thing, rather than splash around in the shallows of many.”

VALUABLE RESOURCES

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

#030 Stay Playful

Sun, 23 Sep 2018 23:00:00 -0000

Welcome to another episode of The Tutor Podcast. In today’s episode, your host Neil Cowmeadow explains why staying playful, having fun and enjoying your job, may be the most important factor to achieving success in your tutoring business.

If tutoring sessions are fun for you, you’ll never work a day again in your life, you’ll have fun and have a steady stream of income as a by-product. The more fun you have, the more students you will have, and they will become your fans your advocates and the greatest assets in your business. Learn how to merge your passion and profession and turn your playfulness into profit in this inspiring episode of The Tutor Podcast.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Continuously explore your field - stay curious and get busy learning more.
Ask yourself, how else can I do this? - if you only have one way or teaching you won’t be successful.
Lighten up - put your happy smile on, every time you teach. Don’t be miserable as it will rub off on your students. Manage your emotional state and manipulate it.
Ask your students to do things wrong - failure becomes a success.
Catch them doing something right and amplify it - congratulate them for doing something right, rather than catching them doing something wrong.
Use humour to teach - jokes are a great way to get lessons across.
Draw pictures - pictures convey messages very effectively.
Invent catch phrases - this helps to encapsulate ideas.
Write poems or limericks - this helps to speed up the learning curve.
Create games to teach with - have fun and use games to keep your students engaged.
Use stories why you teach - this will help to create comparables, humans love stories and they can help you teach.
Pursue the rabbit hole of curiosity - your students will have rabbit holes, when your students ask why explain why.
Encourage questions - you are there to serve them, you’re their resources to education.
Teaching anything is about putting the student first - your student is the most important person.
Share your love affair with your students - show them how to use your passion in daily life and infect your students with your passion.

BEST MOMENTS

“Be real about tutoring, if you hate it people will know and you’ll struggle to find students, struggle financially and be unhappy”

“If you’re the most important person in the room, you’re in the wrong room. Your student is the most important person, check your ego and lighten up.”

“Playfulness really matters, if you laugh and smile while your tutoring you will be fulfilled it’s the key to a long career in business”

“By being playful you will create fans and they will want to come and interact with you and learn from you”

VALUABLE RESOURCES

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

029 - Time Management for Tutors

Sun, 16 Sep 2018 23:00:00 -0000

Welcome to another episode of The Tutor Podcast. In today’s episode, your host Neil Cowmeadow shares his top time management tips. Learn how to make better use of your time and make your business more consistent, more successful and overall, more profitable.

Time does not exist in any substantial sense and therefore we can exert no influence over Time.  Time is a useful illusion invented to allow mankind to make sense of life and our place in the world.   But the truth is that we can only ever live in one instant – the Now.  

Discover how to build your business to service your life not your life to serve your business and how you too, can outsource everything and create a daily routine that puts the most important things first.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Top Time Management Tips

Think strategically and Plan ahead, consider planning in the Long range (15 years), Medium range (5 years) and Short range (1 year). Diarise a review every six months. Make sure your plans are moving forward and are still the right plans to achieve your goals.
Develop a range of tactics that will produce the results you want over the timeframes you specify.
Figure out the order of the tactics and mark them up in your diary, planner or software.
Schedule Operations, the daily actions to execute each tactic in turn. Completing each operation will complete the tactic, and the tactic will contribute toward the execution of the strategy.
Put the most important things in your diary first. This can be holidays, family time and learning/training dates to boost your education.
Batch operations do similar and related tasks all in one block of time
Localise off-site work and travel less – use a map to cluster your students into tight geographic zones or areas, then consolidate all your students’ lessons into a small time-window within their area.
Plan for tomorrow, today and make a note in your diary of what you want to achieve tomorrow.
Outsource, outsource everything you can. if you can get anything done to the same or better standard you can do it, for less than your own hourly earning rate, then you MUST outsource it.
Automate, A little set-up time can give you an ongoing time saving for years
Have a daily routine, having a default day takes a lot of decisions away, a daily plan prompts you to do what needs done, day-in, day-out.
Buy multiples of any clothing you wear for work, effectively, give yourself a uniform. You’ll save time and appear more consistent to your clients and contacts.

BEST MOMENTS

“Yesterday’s gone, and tomorrow is a dream away”

“People trust and pay more for consistency. ”

VALUABLE RESOURCES

Elephant Sandwiches - The simplest time management ever

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

#28 The Talent Myth

Mon, 10 Sep 2018 23:00:00 -0000

Welcome to another episode of The Tutor Podcast. In today’s episode, your host Neil Cowmeadow discusses Talent, is it a myth or is it a method. Consider how harnessing the idea of talent can help you to grow your tutoring business and increase your student base.

It doesn’t matter if you believe in talent or not, you can use it to your advantage. If the natural talent is there, acknowledge it and amplify it. But if it isn’t, erode the myth, minimise it and destroy it. As tutors, you can use the concept, to better direct, better encourage and better teach.

Learn how to start, grow and love your Tutor Business.

Talent is considered to be a natural gift, the idea that talented people are more gifted than others. But consider this; Everyone comes into this world on a blank slate, we’re all the same and everyone who is excellent at something was once, never even doing it. It’s the missing of the process that makes talent look like magic.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

We’re all born helpless, but something happens between birth and excellence, It’s curiosity, fascination, engagement, exploration, encouragement and direction. Talent is just a place marker word for socialisation, fascination, ongoing play and improvement. There’s time spent doing the thing, that’s what really counts.

Student One (Believes in natural talent)

Emphasise the talent myth, remind them of the background factors, but state that talent alone is not enough. It needs care and nurturing, it needs focus. Remind them of stories of wasted talent and acknowledge their view of the work and attempt to amplify it.

Student Two (Disbelief in natural talent)

Acknowledge that they have no natural talent and remind them that in the absence of talent they can go along way with hard work and a good teacher. Consider implementing a system to help them learn and remind them that everyone is capable, everyone started somewhere. You will minimise the talent myth incrementally.

BEST MOMENTS

“If natural talent is more than what most people get, it’s an anomaly”

“Talent is shorthand in a way with constant learning, it’s not magic, it’s consistent”

“Every master was once a disaster”

“Every winner was once a beginner”

“Every hero was once a zero”

VALUABLE RESOURCES

ABOUT THE HOST

#27 Killer Copywriting Part 3- Your Voice

Sun, 02 Sep 2018 23:00:00 -0000

In Today’s episode of The Tutor Podcast, Neil wraps up the Killer Copywriting mini-series with Part 3 ‘Developing Your Own Voice’ discover how to create your own personal style, write compelling copy and super-charge your tutoring business by communicating with your customers more effectively and more efficiently. Learn the correct techniques to construct your own killer copy and share your story.

Tune in to episode #027 to hear Neil discuss Talent - Is it a myth or is it a method?

Learn how to start, grow and love your Tutor Business.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Active Voice - Use present tense verbs and not dry adjectives, it’s more compelling.
Be Playful - Experiment with words and have fun.
Be Topical - If it will help, refer to current events etc however if you’re to create evergreen content relating to current affairs will date your copy.
Don't Ask Pointless Questions – Rhetorical questions do not come across well in copy, they’re pointless.
Emotional Impact - Provoke emotions to convince your audience to take action.
Everyday Language - Using plain English you can be straight to the point when communicating with your audience, this trumps fancy flowery words every time.
Invent Your Own Words - Be unique and wacky with your copy to make it unique. ‘Brainify’ it, it’s all yours and it could develop into a hashtag on social media.
Power Of Opposites - Create contrasts in your copy to accentuate your points. Rich/poor, healthy/sick, loved/lonely.
Power Words - Use powerful words to cut through the noise and keep it personal. Now, you, yes, love all address your audience.
Proper Punctuation - Always check your work and ensure the grammar is correct.
Sense Of Entitlement - If what you delivery is the best, remind them they deserve the best.
Strong Words - Use forceful words to provoke a reaction and make an impact.
Subvert The Rules - Feel free to challenge the old rules and develop your own style.
Tell A Story - Create a story with your copy and easily identifiable characters within the story. Your audience with a vivid imagination will be much more engaged.
Paint Pictures – Create mental images in your reader's mind and allow them to walk into your story with an open mind and this can draw them towards a call to action, a buying decision.
Tone Of Voice - Have your own voice and trust it, it’s who you are!

BEST MOMENTS

“Even if you’re not going to write your own copy, you’ll need to know what good copywriting looks like”

“Speak directly in your own voice”

VALUABLE RESOURCES

Eats Shoots and Leaves - Lynne Truss

Episode 25 The Tutor Podcast ‘Killer Copy Part 1’

Episode 26 The Tutor Podcast ‘Killer Copy Part 2’

ABOUT THE HOST

#26 Killer Copywriting Part 2

Sun, 26 Aug 2018 23:00:00 -0000

TITLE

#026 The Tutor Podcast

Killer Copywriting Part 2

DESCRIPTION

Welcome to part 2 of The Tutor Podcasts Killer Copywriting three-part mini-series. In today’s episode Neil dives deeper into this valuable skills and shares with you some essential technical tips to writing killer copy. If you’re looking to write more compelling copy, construct a powerful message or simply communicate with your customers better, then this is the episode for you.

Learn how to start, grow and love your Tutor Business.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Technical Copywriting Tips

Focus on one thing and know your outcome.
Have clear call to actions and include step-by-step instructions if necessary.
Consider SEO (search engine optimisation) organically throughout your copy .
Know your subject and don’t what you’re trying to get across.
Use sub-headings to divide the content and help the reader digest your copy.
Pre-empt your audiences objections when aiming to use your copy to sell, and attempt to provoke an emotional response.
Always use social proof to add credibility to your copy. Use quotes with names if possible.
Additional testimonials such as embedded quotes can be a great way to help keep your copy compelling.
Have a Copywriting style guide and develop your own style of writing, your own voice.
Format of the document and make sure it looks good on all devices, particularly if it’s digital.
Check your spellings and ensure your grammar is always correct.
Choose a nice font that’s easily readable and easy to digest.
Remember to format the text and use the empty space on the page to justify long paragraphs or CTA’s
Use human psychology and trust in plain words and clear language to do the job.

BEST MOMENTS

“Even if you’re not going to write your own copy you’ll need to know what good copywriting looks like”

“As individuals, people are unpredictable, but People are predictable in crowds”

VALUABLE RESOURCES

Episode 22 The Tutor Podcast ‘Testimonials’

Episode 25 The Tutor Podcast ‘Killer Copy Part 1’

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

Contact - Info@neilcowmeadow.com

Telephone - 01952 882 928

TITLE

#025 The Tutor Podcast

Killer Copy

DESCRIPTION

In today’s episode Neil begins the first of a three-part mini-series about copywriting for your business. Discover how to write and create killer copy, that can help market your business and bring in new customers. Neil shares with you his Top 10 Tips For Killer Copy and why you should implement these right away!

Learn how to start, grow and love your Tutor Business.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Firstly understand that “copy” is any writing used to promote your business or contain your ideas and copy is essential for your businesses marketing, particularly the online.

Top 10 Tips For Killer Copy

Be a real person - Be authentic and remember to always write with your own voice
Consider your audience - Always be aware who you’re writing for. Think about demographic, age, sex, income, location. You can tailor your copy and personalise it to your audience
Know what your audience needs - Provide the right solution for the right people for your business. Solve a problem for them and ask them where it hurts.
Frame your product/service as the solution to their problem/pain - Design everything to frame you are the authority, you as the answer to their problem. This helps to build credibility and position you as the expert.
Focus on the benefits to your audience. Don’t focus your copy on the features of your product/service, focus your copy on the benefits it has to your target audience
PAR Formula (Problem, Agitate/Amplify, Resolve) - Outline the issue the customer has and then propose a solution. Increase the awareness of their issue and then offer to fix it.
Set yourself a word count limit - This is essential, you need to keep your copy shor and to the point.
Make Mistakes - One of the biggest obstacles to writing anything down is getting it perfect, so make mistakes and get it down.
It’s not writing, it’s rewriting - Get something down on the paper, revisit it and rewrite it.
Get your main bullet points down first - Once you have the bullet points down, start to write sub points. Then you can flesh out your copy.

BEST MOMENTS

“Your business will stand or fall by your copy, so pay attention to it.”

“Words are your weapons, your sword and your shield”

VALUABLE RESOURCES

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

Contact - Info@neilcowmeadow.com

Telephone - 01952 882 928

TITLE

#024 The Tutor Podcast

Thinking About Tax

DESCRIPTION

Your host Neil Cowmeadow explores the subject of tax in your business. Understand how to keep control of your money and out of the hands of the tax man and corrupt governments. Discover the rules of the game what you need to do in order to minimise your tax and maximise your earnings.

If you can name it, there is probably a tax or a duty tax put on it so it is essential that you lean the legal ways to avoid it and benefit from it. If we work hard for out money, we should work just as hard to hold onto it.

Neil explains that our attitude to taxation can be confused or conflicted and can become a barrier to success. Taxation is usually perceived as unavoidable, although this is only partly true. There are loads of opportunities to reduce our tax bills. Neil shows you how to get wise about your money and to start to think about what you can do now, to reduce your tax burden and get more of your own money in your pocket.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Tax avoidance - The arrangement of one's financial affairs to minimize tax liability within the law.
Tax evasion - illegal use of schemes to minimise or avoid paying tax
Investing in your education is deductible against your tax, get educated and continual your personal development . Attend free courses before spending a larger amount on education to defend your purchase in order to claim back tax.
We are only required to pay the minimum amount of tax so we should get educated on it. Consider this when planning your business operations and look to take care of your future.
Remember to always consider tax when spending money through your business and minimise your inheritance tax so that your airs do not get hit with huge amounts to pay.

BEST MOMENTS

“Whatever we do the government has their hand in the till, no matter whos in power the system is rigged to exploit you and I”

“Paying less tax is a good thing, but please stay legal”

“We are in effect all slaves of the state”

“Any savings you make could go straight to the bottom of your business and it could make the difference.”

VALUABLE RESOURCES

Non Exclusive License - Verify that your business is using part of your house.

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

Contact - Info@neilcowmeadow.com

Telephone - 01952 882 928

TITLE

#023 The Tutor Podcast

Always Be Learning

DESCRIPTION

Welcome to another episode of The Tutor Podcast, In today’s episode Neil urges you to invest in your education and never stop learning. Understand the value in continuous personal development and how you too, can innovate by developing a unique blend of skills and abilities.

Discover the secrets to ongoing personal education and how to leverage your time in order to constantly educate ourselves, enhance your USP and protect the future of your business and your livelihood.

Learn how to start, grow and love your Tutor Business.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

By learning every day we can protect ourselves from changes and adaptations to the marketplace. We can stay relevant and future-proof our teaching businesses. Continuous and ongoing education is so important because the answers change overtime so we must always be learning.
Make the decision to work on yourself and get busy, work harder on yourself than anything else that you do. If learning is fun it will become a habit so synthesize your multiple skills to be someone unique and more well-rounded.
Speaking skills, Business skills, Writing skills, Psychological skills, Marketing and sales skills. All of these will improve you as a person and increase your tutoring business. Leverage your time to learn more because everything is part of an ongoing learning programme
Over the last few decades Neil has spent tens of thousands of pounds on his ongoing education, spent hundreds of days in seminars and lectures, listened to more than five hundred books, plus countless podcasts, talks, videos and articles across many fields. Everyone can benefit from continuously learning because everything we learn goes into the mix, and an idea from something unconnected with your core field could just revolutionise what you do every day.

BEST MOMENTS

“Always be learning, get busy and educate yourself, it’s a lot of fun”

“If you’re not learning, not adding to your skills and abilities, you’re probably decaying and stagnating, and you’re probably going out of business.”

“Pursue what you think will be useful to you – not necessarily within your current field – breakthroughs occur at the edges, rarely in the mainstream.”

“Everyone can benefit from continuous learning. An idea from something completely unconnected from your core field could revolutionise your day”

VALUABLE RESOURCES

Natural Reader - text to voice reader

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

Contact - Info@neilcowmeadow.com

Telephone - 01952 882 928

TITLE

#022 The Tutor Podcast

Testimonials

DESCRIPTION

Welcome to another episode of The Tutor Podcast, Learn how to start, grow and love your Tutor Business! In today’s episode Neil dives into testimonials why they are important, how to get them and how to use them. Neil explains why testimonials are killer marketing, add credibility to your business and most of all inspire you to keep faith in your passion, and best of all they’re free.

Neil shares testimonials from his own tutoring business and demonstrates the power of social proof and how it can transform your business, instantly make you credible and provide you with limitless students. Learn how other people’s words are more compelling than our own and how you too, can start getting testimonials in your tutoring business right away.

Discover why testimonials are the very best marketing you can have, learn how to sell without selling and super-charge your business simply by asking your students what they think of you. Finally Neil shows you how to increase your exposure and get in front of your audience by using your testimonials as SEO on your website and sharing them online.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Testimonials are evergreen and can provide limitless value to your business forever they’re convincing, compelling and best of all free.

Neil shares the most valuable of all the reasons for getting testimonials – it can really jack-up your motivation, inspire you to keep faith with yourself in low moments, or when self-doubt grabs you and you wonder what it’s all about.

Always be ready to grab a quick testimonial, don’t be shy and capture the moment. Try video testimonials, a comments book or a testimonial box. Your customers want to help they can sometimes be angelic about your tutoring and want to share it with others, facilitate them to do this. Attempt to get an honest testimonial from every one of your students and explain to them why you would like it. Testimonials do the selling for you, all you need to do is go out and get them, it’s that simple. Just ask.

Keep testimonials short and sharp and ask specific questions to create a structure.

What’s their name
How they know you
Their experience of working with you
Outline their outcomes
Would they recommend you to others

BEST MOMENTS

“It’s amazing what your students will say about your business”
“Visibility is credibility, if you have a boat load of testimonials out there, you will be a force to be reckoned with and you will dominate your area”
“Testimonials are killer marketing, the most powerful thing is to put testimonial videos on your website”

VALUABLE RESOURCES

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

https://itunes.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-tutor-podcast/id1369191372?mt=2

Contact - Info@neilcowmeadow.com

Telephone - 01952 882 928

TITLE

#021 The Tutor Podcast

The Value of Time

DESCRIPTION

Welcome to another episode of The Tutor Podcast, today your host Neil Cowmeadow discusses the value of time, how to use it and how to sell it. Learn how to do what counts with your time and see your hourly rate soar with multiple streams of income.

Teachers end up continually trading time for money, a transaction that repeats over and over again. Discover how to add residual income into your life, create cashflowing assets and work on your intellectual property. Neil explains how he has optimised his tutoring business to dynamically manage all voids, free up his time and increase his hourly rate.

Neil urges you to have an exit strategy and make make the most of your precious time, think about how you’re getting out of your business and what you’re getting out of your business with. Finally Neil shows you how to work on your business, not in your business by planning the long-term and investing in yourself.

Learn how to start, grow and love your Tutor Business!

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Teachers want to help people but this can result a poor use of time with one2one coaching etc. One of the biggest issues is that teachers tend to be paid for their time and this creates scaling issues, when you stop teaching you stop getting paid and there is a limit to time, there’s a limit to what you can get done in your day.

Do only the things that have the highest value to you. Stop travelling to students and leverage them to come to you. Optimise your teaching schedule, reduce down time and look ahead at the gaps to ensure you’re using your time efficiently.

Look at the tasks you can outsource for a lower rate that your teaching rate and you’ll effectively be earning more each hour you teach. Ask yourself am I the only person who can do this? If the answer is no, the question should be who can I get to do this for a lower fee than I charge to teach. Free up your time so you can be productive and improve your skill set.

Think about assets that will create monthly income, cash cows that have long-term potential and capital growth. But also make sure you develop your intellectual property, learn skills that will increase your value in the marketplace, invest in yourself and increase your desirability.

BEST MOMENTS

“Time is what keeps everything from happening at once”
“If you’re a good teacher you’ll be making a good living and will have surplus cash to invest in growth prospects, add income generating tasks or assets in the background that effectively increase your hourly rate”
“Time is your most precious resource, you must earn the most amount possible with your time”
“When your time’s up, your times up. You can’t get another minute”

VALUABLE RESOURCES

#0013 The Tutor Podcast - The Right Price

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

https://itunes.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-tutor-podcast/id1369191372?mt=2

Contact - Info@neilcowmeadow.com

Telephone - 01952 882 928

TITLE

#0019 The Tutor Podcast

15 Commandments to keep you happy, motivated and on track to success (Part 3)

DESCRIPTION

Welcome to another episode of The Tutor Podcast, in this edition your host Neil Cowmeadow rounds off the final 5 Commandments to keep you happy, motivated and on track to success.

Learn how to start, grow and love your Tutor Business!

Neils explains how to fill your life with joy, happiness, optimism and pride, and reminds you to celebrate the small achievements along your journey in order to savour the moments that matter most. Learn how to get the help you need, before you need it and why not to undertake the tasks that are a waste of your time.

Understand how with outsourcing you can get all the help you need and why it’s important to hire people that are excellent at what they do. Neil explains how to grow your business sideways and drop what’s not working by making smart decisions along the way.

Finally Neil discusses why not to spend your most vital resource and to remember to think rationally about the things you can control in business and in life.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Know who you are, and who you want to become.
Know where you want to go.
Let go of the need for a specific result.
Don't care what other people are doing.
Don't care what other people think.
Care intensely about those you serve.
Business is all about who you are as a person, it’s an expression and will impact those that are around you.
Your work is your craft, it’s personal.
Work hard on your craft, spend the money to get the skills and learn from others that are better than you. If you are the best teacher in the room, you’re in the wrong room, if you the poorest or the least informed person in the room, you’re in the right room. Invest in yourself.
Don’t ask for permission.
Whose permission do you need to be happy? To be wealthy?
Learn through doing.
You will always be waiting, there’s never going to be a perfect time, so start anyway.
Don’t take yourself too seriously.
If you take yourself too seriously, you’re probably not going to have any fun.
Enjoy where you are on the path, enjoy everyday and take time appreciating what brings you great joy, happiness and pride. Celebrate achievements and remember each step on the journey.
Ask for help and get the help you need, before you need it.
Drop what’s not working, stop, pause and think what you’re doing day to day.
Think laterally, rather than vertically. Try to diversify, increase your footprint and get more reach, ensure you take the opportunities you are given.
Constantly prune your life, and do the things you love. Take away the stuff you don’t want to do and keep the things make you happy.

BEST MOMENTS

“Ask for helping for help is the entrepreneur's kryptonite.”
“Undertake the tasks that are not a waste of your time.”
“With outsourcing you can get all the help you need.”
“Time is a finite resource, guard it with your life.”
“Prune your life back ruthlesses”.
“It’s raining money and all you have to do is put a bucket outside.”

VALUABLE RESOURCES

#0018 The Tutor Podcast - 15 Commandments to keep you happy, motivated and on track to success (Part 2)

Upwork

Fivver

People Per Hour

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

Contact - Info@neilcowmeadow.com

Telephone - 01952 882 928

#025 -Killer Copy

Sun, 19 Aug 2018 23:00:00 -0000

In today’s episode, Neil begins the first of a three-part mini-series about copywriting for your business. Discover how to write and create killer copy, that can help market your business and bring in new customers. Neil shares with you his Top 10 Tips For Killer Copy and why you should implement these right away!

Learn how to start, grow and love your Tutor Business.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Firstly understand that “copy” is any writing used to promote your business or contain your ideas and copy is essential for your businesses marketing, particularly the online.

Top 10 Tips For Killer Copy

Be a real person - Be authentic and remember to always write with your own voice
Consider your audience - Always be aware who you’re writing for. Think about demographics, age, sex, income, location. You can tailor your copy and personalise it to your audience
Know what your audience needs - Provide the right solution for the right people for your business. Solve a problem for them and ask them where it hurts.
Frame your product/service as the solution to their problem/pain - Design everything to frame you are the authority, you as the answer to their problem. This helps to build credibility and position you as the expert.
Focus on the benefits to your audience. Don’t focus your copy on the features of your product/service, focus your copy on the benefits it has to your target audience
PAR Formula (Problem, Agitate/Amplify, Resolve) - Outline the issue the customer has and then propose a solution. Increase the awareness of their issue and then offer to fix it.
Set yourself a word count limit - This is essential, you need to keep your copy shor and to the point.
Make Mistakes - One of the biggest obstacles to writing anything down is getting it perfect, so make mistakes and get it down.
It’s not writing, it’s rewriting - Get something down on the paper, revisit it and rewrite it.
Get your main bullet points down first - Once you have the bullet points down, start to write sub-points. Then you can flesh out your copy.

BEST MOMENTS

“Your business will stand or fall by your copy, so pay attention to it.”

“Words are your weapons, your sword and your shield”

VALUABLE RESOURCES

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

Contact - Info@neilcowmeadow.com

Telephone - 01952 882 928

#024 - Thinking About Tax

Tue, 14 Aug 2018 08:05:30 -0000

If you can name it, there is probably a tax or a duty tax put on it so it is essential that you lean the legal ways to avoid it and benefit from it. If we work hard for our money, we should work just as hard to hold onto it.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Tax avoidance - The arrangement of one's financial affairs to minimize tax liability within the law.

Tax evasion - illegal use of schemes to minimise or avoid paying tax
Investing in your education is deductible against your tax, get educated and continual your personal development. Attend free courses before spending a larger amount on education to defend your purchase in order to claim back tax.
We are only required to pay the minimum amount of tax so we should get educated on it. Consider this when planning your business operations and look to take care of your future.
Remember to always consider tax when spending money through your business and minimise your inheritance tax so that your airs do not get hit with huge amounts to pay.

BEST MOMENTS

“Whatever we do the government has their hand in the till no matter whos in power the system is rigged to exploit you and I”

“Paying less tax is a good thing, but please stay legal”

“We are in effect all slaves of the state”

“Any savings you make could go straight to the bottom of your business and it could make the difference.”

VALUABLE RESOURCES

Non Exclusive License - Verify that your business is using part of your house.

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

Contact - Info@neilcowmeadow.com

Telephone - 01952 882 928

#023 - Always Be Learning

Sun, 05 Aug 2018 23:00:00 -0000

Welcome to another episode of The Tutor Podcast, In today’s episode, Neil urges you to invest in your education and never stop learning. Understand the value in continuous personal development and how you too, can innovate by developing a unique blend of skills and abilities.

Learn how to start, grow and love your Tutor Business.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

By learning every day we can protect ourselves from changes and adaptations to the marketplace. We can stay relevant and future-proof our teaching businesses. Continuous and ongoing education is so important because the answers change over time so we must always be learning.

Make the decision to work on yourself and get busy, work harder on yourself than anything else that you do. If learning is fun it will become a habit so synthesize your multiple skills to be someone unique and more well-rounded.

Speaking skills, Business skills, Writing skills, Psychological skills, Marketing and sales skills. All of these will improve you as a person and increase your tutoring business. Leverage your time to learn more because everything is part of an ongoing learning programme
Over the last few decades, Neil has spent tens of thousands of pounds on his ongoing education, spent hundreds of days in seminars and lectures, listened to more than five hundred books, plus countless podcasts, talks, videos, and articles across many fields. Everyone can benefit from continuous learning because everything we learn goes into the mix, and an idea from something unconnected with your core field could just revolutionise what you do every day.

BEST MOMENTS

“Always be learning, get busy and educate yourself, it’s a lot of fun”

“If you’re not learning, not adding to your skills and abilities, you’re probably decaying and stagnating, and you’re probably going out of business.”

“Pursue what you think will be useful to you – not necessarily within your current field – breakthroughs occur at the edges, rarely in the mainstream.”

“Everyone can benefit from continuous learning. An idea from something completely unconnected from your core field could revolutionise your day”

VALUABLE RESOURCES

Natural Reader - text to voice reader

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

Contact - Info@neilcowmeadow.com

Telephone - 01952 882 928

#022 - Testimonials why they are important, how to get them and how to use them

Tue, 31 Jul 2018 23:00:00 -0000

Welcome to another episode of The Tutor Podcast, Learn how to start, grow and love your Tutor Business! In today’s episode, Neil dives into testimonials why they are important, how to get them and how to use them. Neil explains why testimonials are killer marketing, add credibility to your business and most of all inspire you to keep faith in your passion, and best of all they’re free.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Testimonials are evergreen and can provide limitless value to your business forever they’re convincing, compelling and best of all free.
Neil shares the most valuable of all the reasons for getting testimonials – it can really jack-up your motivation, inspire you to keep faith with yourself in low moments, or when self-doubt grabs you and you wonder what it’s all about.
Always be ready to grab a quick testimonial, don’t be shy and capture the moment. Try video testimonials, a comments book or a testimonial box. Your customers want to help they can sometimes be angelic about your tutoring and want to share it with others, facilitate them to do this. Attempt to get an honest testimonial from every one of your students and explain to them why you would like it. Testimonials do the selling for you, all you need to do is go out and get them, it’s that simple. Just ask.

Keep testimonials short and sharp and ask specific questions to create a structure.

What’s their name
How they know you
Their experience of working with you
Outline their outcomes
Would they recommend you to others

BEST MOMENTS

“It’s amazing what your students will say about your business”
“Visibility is credibility, if you have a boatload of testimonials out there, you will be a force to be reckoned with and you will dominate your area”
“Testimonials are killer marketing, the most powerful thing is to put testimonial videos on your website”

VALUABLE RESOURCES

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

https://itunes.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-tutor-podcast/id1369191372?mt=2

Contact - Info@neilcowmeadow.com

Telephone - 01952 882 928

#021 - The Value of Time

Sun, 29 Jul 2018 23:00:00 -0000

Neil urges you to have an exit strategy and make the most of your precious time, think about how you’re getting out of your business and what you’re getting out of your business with. Finally, Neil shows you how to work on your business, not in your business by planning the long-term and investing in yourself.

Learn how to start, grow and love your Tutor Business!

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Teachers want to help people but this can result in a poor use of time with one2one coaching etc. One of the biggest issues is that teachers tend to be paid for their time and this creates scaling issues, when you stop teaching you stop getting paid and there is a limit to time, there’s a limit to what you can get done in your day.
Do only the things that have the highest value to you. Stop traveling to students and leverage them to come to you. Optimise your teaching schedule, reduce downtime and look ahead at the gaps to ensure you’re using your time efficiently.
Look at the tasks you can outsource for a lower rate than your teaching rate and you’ll effectively be earning more each hour you teach. Ask yourself am I the only person who can do this? If the answer is no, the question should be who can I get to do this for a lower fee than I charge to teach. Free up your time so you can be productive and improve your skill set.
Think about assets that will create monthly income, cash cows that have long-term potential and capital growth. But also make sure you develop your intellectual property, learn skills that will increase your value in the marketplace, invest in yourself and increase your desirability.

BEST MOMENTS

“Time is what keeps everything from happening at once”
“If you’re a good teacher you’ll be making a good living and will have surplus cash to invest in growth prospects, add income generating tasks or assets in the background that effectively increase your hourly rate”
“Time is your most precious resource, you must earn the most amount possible with your time”
“When your time’s up, your times up. You can’t get another minute”

VALUABLE RESOURCES

#0013 The Tutor Podcast - The Right Price

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

https://itunes.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-tutor-podcast/id1369191372?mt=2

Contact - Info@neilcowmeadow.com

Telephone - 01952 882 928

#020 - From Shipyard Plumber to Corporate Lawyer with Chris Plumley

Sun, 15 Jul 2018 23:00:00 -0000

If you doubt yourself or you’ve taken the wrong turn, then there’s a lot of nuggets of wisdom you’ll get when you tune in to this episode of The Tutor Podcast.

Today, Neil sits with Chris Plumley, a partner-lawyer at Trowers & Hamlins, to talk about humble beginnings, social mobility, diversity inclusion, importance of coaching & mentoring among other stuff. He also talks about his experience working in a shipyard while attending night school and how his co-workers’ bad impressions about his life plans didn’t stop him from being what he is today. Chris’ journey to becoming a corporate lawyer should be motivating for all of us to finally kick-start the journey towards the goal we want to!

KEY TAKEAWAYS

“The only way I’m gonna get out of this is to do something different.” Chris’ parents were divorced when he was a kid. This affected his schooling. He started not attending school and decided to work as a shipyard plumber. In the course of it, he realized he doesn’t like what he’s doing so he enrolled for night school. He finished night school and his apprenticeship in the shipyard, so he enrolled in a university. From then on, he sought to pursue a law career.
Being ostracized for moving up. When his co-workers in the shipyard found out that he’s not going to stay as a plumber, they treated him badly. They kept saying that Chris is taking a good job from someone who could’ve been a very good plumber. He was bullied.
Working in the shipyard is a microcosm of social mobility. It was a dying industry. The core staff would retain but the temporary staff would go. There was too much free time and there was nothing to do.
Diversity inclusion program within the firm. He and his partners are trying to work out within the organization what contributions to make. Some are reluctant to tell their humble beginnings before they became lawyers. He says to learn to accept your background.

There’s a lot happening. It’s horrifying to hear people facing discrimination every day.

Having a mentor. Chris admits that he sometimes suffers from impostor syndrome. When a work, whether it’s transactional or leading a group, it’s hard to get motivated. But, you have to get moving for your team.
Chris knows what causes and triggers such unwanted behaviours. He tries not to get worked up and get very tired. He used post-its to remind him of he should act whenever.
Having consistent behaviour. Chris undergoes coaching to work on his mechanisms to have a consistent behaviour. People you interact with also need a consistent and genuine characteristic, especially when doing business.

BEST MOMENTS

“Accept your background. Accept where you’ve come from. Let your baggage go.”
“The trick is not to beat yourself up.”

VALUABLE RESOURCES

ABOUT THE HOST

ABOUT THE GUEST

Chris Plumley is a partner in the Trowers & Hamlins Real Estate team and specialises in large-scale public regeneration and mixed-used development projects. He is a published author contributing to Lexis Nexis, The Encyclopaedia of Local Authority Companies and Partnerships, The MJ, and localgovernementlawyer.com. He is also an advisory board member for Thomson Reuters Transformation of Women's Leadership in the Law.

CONTACTS

Chris Plumley

Neil Cowmeadow

#019 - The 15 Commandments Pt.3

Sun, 08 Jul 2018 23:00:00 -0000

Welcome to another episode of The Tutor Podcast, in this edition your host Neil Cowmeadow rounds off the final 5 Commandments to keep you happy, motivated and on track to success.

Learn how to start, grow and love your Tutor Business!

Finally, Neil discusses why not to spend your most vital resource and to remember to think rationally about the things you can control in business and in life.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

1. Know who you are, and who you want to become.

2. Know where you want to go.
3. Let go of the need for a specific result.
4. Don't care what other people are doing.
5. Don't care what other people think.
6. Care intensely about those you serve.
Business is all about who you are as a person, it’s an expression and will impact those that are around you.
7. Your work is your craft, it’s personal.
Work hard on your craft, spend the money to get the skills and learn from others that are better than you. If you are the best teacher in the room, you’re in the wrong room, if you the poorest or the least informed person in the room, you’re in the right room. Invest in yourself.
8. Don’t ask for permission.
Whose permission do you need to be happy? To be wealthy?
9. Learn through doing.
You will always be waiting, there’s never going to be a perfect time, so start anyway.
10. Don’t take yourself too seriously.
If you take yourself too seriously, you’re probably not going to have any fun.
11. Enjoy where you are on the path.
Enjoy every day and take time appreciating what brings you great joy, happiness and pride. Celebrate achievements and remember each step on the journey.
12. Ask for help.
and get the help you need, before you need it.
13. Drop what’s not working.
Stop, pause and think what you’re doing day to day.
14. Think laterally, rather than vertically.
Try to diversify, increase your footprint and get more reach, ensure you take the opportunities you are given.
15. Constantly prune your life.
Do the things you love. Take away the stuff you don’t want to do and keep the things make you happy.

BEST MOMENTS

“Ask for helping for help is the entrepreneur's kryptonite.”

“Undertake the tasks that are not a waste of your time.”

“With outsourcing, you can get all the help you need.”

“Time is a finite resource, guard it with your life.”

“Prune your life back ruthlessness”.

“It’s raining money and all you have to do is put a bucket outside.”

VALUABLE RESOURCES

#0018 The Tutor Podcast - 15 Commandments to keep you happy, motivated and on track to success (Part 2)

Upwork

Fivver

People Per Hour

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

https://itunes.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-tutor-podcast/id1369191372?mt=2

Contact - Info@neilcowmeadow.com

Telephone - 01952 882 928

#018 - The 15 Commandments Pt.2

Sun, 01 Jul 2018 23:00:00 -0000

Welcome to another episode of The Tutor Podcast, in this edition your host Neil Cowmeadow dives into the next 5 Commandments to keep you happy, motivated and on track to success.

Learn how to start, grow and love your Tutor Business!

Discover why caring intensely about yourself and those around you, will lead to you being more fulfilled in both business and your personal life. By caring you will build longer term relationships with your colleagues, your customers, your friends and your family, and If you care about those people, you’ll do right by those people and serve them better.

Neil discusses why your work is your craft and it’s personal. As entrepreneurs, as teachers we express ourselves through our work. It’s a focused evolution of the skills evolved, in the practice of that work, an ongoing development of your passion. Neil explains why you need to craft your own craft, finesse it, tweak it and make it better because if your not getting better, you're getting worse and If you are not growing you’re probably dying.

Find out why you shouldn’t ask for permission, because nobody else is running your life, you are. By doing great stuff, you learn stuff. Learn through doing. Neil talks about the need to start doing or you will always be wait for the right time to invest, to learn, to start, to expand, to develop, to contract or to change track. The moment you start, the fear evaporates.

Finally Neil rounds off the episode by teaching you, not to take yourself so seriously, and to find fun in any situation. The universe doesn’t care about you, so have some fun in making a fortune and building a legacy.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Know who you are, and who you want to become.
Know where you want to go.
Let go of the need for a specific result.
Don't care what other people are doing.
Don't care what other people think.
Care intensely about those you serve.
Business is all about who you are as a person, it’s an expression and will impact those that are around you.
Your work is your craft, it’s personal.
Work hard on your craft, spend the money to get the skills and learn from others that are better than you. If you are the best teacher in the room, you’re in the wrong room, if you the poorest or the least informed person in the room, you’re in the right room. Invest in yourself.
Don’t ask for permission.
Whose permission do you need to be happy? To be wealthy?
Learn through doing.
You will always be waiting, there’s never going to be a perfect time, so start anyway.
Don’t take yourself too seriously.
If you take yourself too seriously, you’re probably not going to have any fun.

BEST MOMENTS

“Care more than you think is safe, more than you think is necessary”.
“We are expressing ourselves through our work, become a better version of you, from the work that you do.”
“Never retreat, never explain. Get it done and let them howl.” Benjamin Jarrard
“Mistakes are part of the learning process, learn by doing and take the next step.”
“Leap and grow your wings on the way down.” Ray Bradbury

VALUABLE RESOURCES

#0017 The Tutor Podcast - 15 Commandments to keep you happy, motivated and on track to success (Part 2)

Johnny B Truant - The Universe Doesn't Give a Flying Fuck About You -

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Universe-Doesnt-Give-Flying-About-ebook/dp/B005OMBTKY

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD

Contact - Info@neilcowmeadow.com

Telephone - 01952 882 928

#017 - The 15 Commandments Pt.1

Sun, 24 Jun 2018 23:00:00 -0000

In this episode of The Tutor Podcast, Neil discusses the 15 Commandments to keep you happy, motivated and on track to success.

Neil dives into the first 5 commandments and explains that in order to be successful you must know who you are, and who you want to become. Understand that it is important to stay true to yourself and your values in order to know where you want to go in life.

Neil touches on why having a sense of direction is imperative in achieving your goals, and why everyone should aim to look 15 years ahead and create goals to work towards. Understand the benefit in creating a roadmap for yourself and that it can change overtime as you evolve and gain clarity. Learn how to stop trading time for money, create a passive income and do what you enjoy, just as Neil has teaching guitar.

Neil goes on to discuss how to let go of the need for specific results and that the results you produce will not be exactly what you want, but that you can take positivity in recognising the significant action you’ve taken toward the results you want. Understand that if you are affected by deviations to your plan to achieve specific results it will affect you mentally and that you must simply take the positives when you can.

Don't care what other people are doing, navigate via your own values and realise that It doesn't matter what others are doing. We are defined by our actions, regardless of what others are doing around us. Finally Learn that you shouldn’t care what others think and that by focusing on your own values, navigate off of your own map, others will only slow you up. You answer only to yourself and If you are concerned about what others think you won’t achieve what you want to achieve.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Know who you are, and who you want to become.
Know where you want to go.
Let go of the need for a specific result.
Don't care what other people are doing.
Don't care what other people think.

BEST MOMENTS

“There is no point in becoming wealthy if you can't look at yourself in the mirror.”
“You don't have to be a millionaire or a property investor as long as you do what's right for you.”
“If you don't know where you want to go, you won't end up anywhere. If you know where want to go to, you might end up somewhere close.”
“You need to understand to be adaptable and fluid with your plan.”
“Understand what you enjoy and what you value.”
“People will come into your life, and people will leave your life.”

VALUABLE RESOURCES

Ep. 16 The Tutor Podcast - How to Illicit Your VALUES – The Deepest Essence of What Makes Us Go
https://itunes.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-tutor-podcast/id1369191372?mt=2

ABOUT THE HOST

CONTACT METHOD