Summer Series 7: Should You Expand Beyond TPT? What to Know Before You List Anywhere Else
Expand Beyond TPT: Where (and How) to List Your Teacher Resources Next Wondering if you should start listing your resources somewhere other than TPT? In this Summer Series episode, Lindsay shares her personal journey and expert advice on how to successfully expand beyond Teachers Pay Teachers (TPT). She breaks down the pros and cons of popular platforms while giving you actionable strategies to grow your teacher business smartly and sustainably. If you're ready to multiply your income streams and take back control of your business, this episode is for you! [0:43] Start Here First: Build an Email List Lindsay emphasizes why having an email list is more important than jumping to another platform right away - and what the order of operations should really be. [1:13] WooCommerce + WordPress = A Scalable Combo Lindsay explains how WooCommerce works, how she uses it on her own https://wordpress.org/, and why it’s a great starting point if you already have your own website. ** Note on WordPress: To use plugins like WooCommerce, you’ll need the self-hosted WordPress.org version, which requires paid hosting (such as Bluehost). While WordPress may seem free, full functionality comes from the hosting plan. [3:00] The Key Difference: TPT Traffic vs. DIY Marketing Learn why TPT brings built-in traffic while platforms like WooCommerce and Shopify require your own marketing efforts - and how Pinterest and SEO can help. [3:58] Shopify: An Easier (but Paid) Alternative Shopify’s user-friendly setup might be a great fit if you don’t want to deal with WordPress - Lindsay shares her experience using Shopify and why she ultimately switched. [4:40] Other Marketplace Options: Made By Teachers, Classful & More Lindsay talks about other emerging teacher resource marketplaces and why it doesn’t hurt to diversify your listings. [5:08] Etsy for Teacherpreneurs: Is It Worth It? Thinking about selling classroom decor or printables on Etsy? Lindsay breaks down the fees, audience types, and which products perform best. [6:07] Start Small and Systematize Instead of uploading everything at once, Lindsay recommends starting with 10 - 50 products and using a VA to help - plus how she uses Airtable to keep it all organized. Resources Mentioned: Check out my Email Marketing Course Wordpress Shopify Made by Teachers Classful Etsy Airtable