Beyond the Big Agencies

Elise Mitchell

Beyond the Big Agencies is the go-to podcast for SLPs, OTs, PTs, and related service providers who want to take control of their school-based service delivery without relying on large staffing agencies. Hosted by Elise Mitchell, SLP and owner of The Therapist Support Network, this podcast dives into real-world strategies for securing contracts, scaling your practice, and navigating the challenges of contracting directly with schools. Whether you're a solo provider or looking to expand, you'll find expert insights, success stories, and practical tips to help you grow a sustainable and rewarding business-because school contracting should be left to the professionals.

  1. 1 DAY AGO

    Speaking in Schools: The Overlooked Revenue Stream for SLPs with Daj Mitchell

    On this episode of Beyond the Big Agencies, Elise Mitchell and Daj Mitchell discuss the journey of coaching, public speaking for SLPs, leveraging AI, and building a successful online business. They share insights on niching, overcoming challenges, and creating revenue streams through speaking engagements and professional development. Resources:Daj Speaker Accelerator https://co-treatcorner.myflodesk.com/speakerwaitlist Daj Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yourslpdaj/ School Contracting Resources: www.thetherapistsupportnetwork.com

    23 min

  2. 7 APR

    From Clinician to CEO: Building Renew Allied

    In this episode, I’m joined by Melissa Denning, founder of Renew Allied, a therapist-owned contracting company that has grown from a private practice into a multi-state business working with schools. Melissa shares what it actually looked like to transition out of traditional clinical work and into building a business that supports both therapists and schools—without compromising on pay, ethics, or quality of care. We talk through the real decisions behind growth: when to raise your rates, when to hire, how to approach negotiations, and what it takes to step into RFPs with confidence. If you’ve ever wondered what scaling a therapy business actually looks like behind the scenes—this conversation pulls it back. Key TakeawaysMelissa’s journey from private practice to building Renew Allied How pricing decisions impact long-term sustainability What therapists get wrong about negotiations (and how to fix it) The turning point that led her to start hiring and scaling How to approach RFPs without overcomplicating the process The role of consistency and sales in building a stable business Why investing in systems and support changes everything ResourcesMelissa's Instagram: @RenewAllied The Therapist Support Network Resources: www.thetherapistsupportnetwork.com

    24 min

  3. 17 MAR

    The 3 Revenue Pillars of a Stable Therapy Business

    Summary: Elise Mitchell discusses how therapy business owners can build a stable, resilient business by diversifying revenue streams. She introduces the three pillars of stability—consistent cash flow, fast cash, and premium offers—and explains how to implement them effectively in school contracting and private practice. References: 5 Revenue Stream Mini-Course: https://www.thetherapistsupportnetwork.com/offers/srjxU2Rk/checkout 1:1 Revenue Stream Intensive: https://calendly.com/schoolcontractor/revenuestreams Financial Disclosure: "Beyond the Big Agencies" is brought to you by The Therapist Support Network. Some topics discussed may reference products, services, or resources offered by The Therapist Support Network. This episode may contain affiliate links. I may earn a small commission if you purchase through them, at no extra cost to you Legal Disclaimer: The information provided in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal, financial, or professional advice. Listeners should consult with qualified professionals regarding their specific circumstances before making any business decisions.

    17 min

  4. 24 FEB

    Agency vs Direct School Contracts: Which Path Fits Your Career?

    Episode Summary Many school-based providers reach a crossroads at some point in their career: 👉 Do I work through a staffing agency? 👉 Or do I contract directly with schools? In this episode, Elise breaks down the real differences between agency contracting and direct contracting, including pay, autonomy, responsibility, and long-term growth potential. You’ll walk away with clarity on which model fits your goals, season of life, and risk tolerance — and how to think about your next move. Key TakeawaysAgencies can be a great starting pointDirect contracting creates long-term leverageYou can move from agency → direct when you’re readyUnderstanding both models helps you make strategic choices ResourcesThe FREE School Contractor Checklist: https://thetsn.myflodesk.com/checklist The School Contractor Training and Packet: https://www.thetherapistsupportnetwork.com/training-and-packet DisclaimersFinancial Disclosure:"Beyond the Big Agencies" is brought to you by The Therapist Support Network. Some topics discussed may reference products, services, or resources offered by The Therapist Support Network. This episode may contain affiliate links. I may earn a small commission if you purchase through them, at no extra cost to you Legal Disclaimer:The information provided in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal, financial, or professional advice. Listeners should consult with qualified professionals regarding their specific circumstances before making any business decisions.

    22 min

  5. 27 JAN

    Strong Over Fast: Why Strategic Growth Beats Rapid Expansion

    Summary In this podcast episode, Elise Mitchell discusses the concept of growth in business, particularly in the context of school contracting. She emphasizes the importance of sustainable and intentional growth over rapid expansion, which can lead to chaos and hidden problems. Elise outlines the dangers of pursuing growth solely based on revenue and FTEs, advocating instead for a strategic approach that includes understanding capacity, implementing systems, and ensuring financial soundness. The episode concludes with a call to focus on building a better business rather than simply aiming for bigger numbers. Takeaways Sustainable growth is more important than rapid growth.Rapid growth can introduce chaos into your business.Redefine success beyond just revenue metrics.Prepare your business infrastructure before pursuing large contracts.Chaos can lead to compliance and service delivery issues.You become overwhelmed when growth is unintentional.Strategic growth should be based on capacity and systems.Documented workflows are essential for expansion.Financial stability is crucial for sustainable growth.Focus on building a better business, not just a bigger one. Resources Scale Your School Contracting Business Coaching Program: https://www.thetherapistsupportnetwork.com/coaching-program Financial Disclosure: "Beyond the Big Agencies" is brought to you by The Therapist Support Network. Some topics discussed may reference products, services, or resources offered by The Therapist Support Network. This episode may contain affiliate links. I may earn a small commission if you purchase through them, at no extra cost to you Legal Disclaimer:The information provided in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal, financial, or professional advice. Listeners should consult with qualified professionals regarding their specific circumstances before making any business decisions.

    25 min

  6. 13 JAN

    Unlocking Growth Through a Mid-Year Satisfaction Survey

    In this episode of Beyond the Big Agencies, Elise Mitchell discusses the significance of conducting mid-year satisfaction surveys for school contractors. She emphasizes the importance of gathering customer feedback early in the year to address issues, gauge renewal likelihood, and identify growth opportunities. The episode outlines the benefits of satisfaction surveys, including catching potential deal-breakers, collecting testimonials, and measuring success through net promoter scores. Elise provides actionable tips for creating effective surveys and highlights the necessity of turning feedback into tangible improvements to strengthen client relationships and drive business growth. Takeaways Mid-year satisfaction surveys can transform service delivery.Customer feedback is crucial for contract renewal and expansion.Surveys should be sent early to allow for course correction.Addressing issues promptly can prevent them from becoming deal-breakers.Satisfaction surveys can gauge renewal likelihood and spot opportunities.Collecting testimonials during surveys can enhance credibility.A net promoter score helps measure overall business performance.Surveys should include clear, actionable questions.Follow up on feedback to show clients their input is valued.Effective surveys can lead to strategic growth and stronger relationships. Resources School Satisfaction Survey Guide: https://thetsn.myflodesk.com/surveyguideScale Your School Contracting Business: https://www.thetherapistsupportnetwork.com/coaching-program Financial Disclosure: "Beyond the Big Agencies" is brought to you by The Therapist Support Network. Some topics discussed may reference products, services, or resources offered by The Therapist Support Network. This episode may contain affiliate links. I may earn a small commission if you purchase through them, at no extra cost to you Legal Disclaimer:The information provided in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal, financial, or professional advice. Listeners should consult with qualified professionals regarding their specific circumstances before making any business decisions.

    17 min

  7. 09/12/2025

    2025 Trends and Why They Matter for Your 2026 Growth

    In this final episode of the season, Elise Mitchell reflects on the key trends and insights from 2025 in school contracting. She discusses the importance of pricing strategies, the shift towards early renewals as a sign of trust, the challenges of new contracts, and the growing significance of email outreach. Additionally, she highlights the preference for provider-run companies, the widening trust deficit, the rise of hybrid service models, and the ongoing recruitment challenges. Looking ahead to 2026, Elise emphasizes the need for clarity, systems, and relationship-building in the evolving education landscape. Takeaways: Prices absolutely mattered this year.Schools wanted continuity and stability earlier.Renewals happened earlier and faster than in previous years.New contracts came in later due to decision fatigue.Emails became a bigger entry point for outreach.Providers preferred working for provider-run companies.Trust is a crucial currency in the industry.Hybrid models grew in popularity this year.Recruitment was particularly challenging in 2025.Schools value clarity, systems, and relationships. Resources: The Therapist Support Network Beginner's Checklist: https://thetsn.myflodesk.com/checklist The Scale Your School Contracting Business Waitlist: https://thetsn.myflodesk.com/scalewaitlist Financial Disclosure: "Beyond the Big Agencies" is brought to you by The Therapist Support Network. Some topics discussed may reference products, services, or resources offered by The Therapist Support Network. This episode may contain affiliate links. I may earn a small commission if you purchase through them, at no extra cost to you Legal Disclaimer: The information provided in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal, financial, or professional advice. Listeners should consult with qualified professionals regarding their specific circumstances before making any business decisions.

    25 min

  8. 25/11/2025

    Unlocking January Contracts: Your Mid-Year Goldmine

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

    22 min
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About

Beyond the Big Agencies is the go-to podcast for SLPs, OTs, PTs, and related service providers who want to take control of their school-based service delivery without relying on large staffing agencies. Hosted by Elise Mitchell, SLP and owner of The Therapist Support Network, this podcast dives into real-world strategies for securing contracts, scaling your practice, and navigating the challenges of contracting directly with schools. Whether you're a solo provider or looking to expand, you'll find expert insights, success stories, and practical tips to help you grow a sustainable and rewarding business-because school contracting should be left to the professionals.

Information

  • Creator
    Elise Mitchell
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    31
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2026 Elise Mitchell
  • Show Website
    Beyond the Big Agencies

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