38: Social Media for Teacher Sellers: What to Post, How Often, and What Actually Works

Social media can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re juggling teaching, life, and a growing TPT business. Do you really need to be on Instagram? Does marketing actually work? And how do you promote your resources without living on your phone? In today’s episode, I’m joined by Ashley Mickelson, a longtime teacher seller and self-described accidental entrepreneur. Ashley shares what she’s learned over nearly a decade of selling on TPT, building relationships online, and using simple marketing systems that don’t lead to burnout. We talk honestly about social media, automation tools like ManyChat, and why relationships (not hacks), are what truly grow a sustainable teacher business. If you’ve ever felt stuck between wanting more visibility and wanting more peace, this conversation will meet you right where you are. In this episode, we cover: How Ashley accidentally turned teaching into a long-term TPT business Why relationship-building matters more than posting perfectly What ManyChat is and how teachers actually use it (in simple terms) How automation can save time instead of adding stress When it makes sense to invest in tools and when it doesn’t How introverted or camera-shy teachers can start showing up online The difference between content that lasts vs. content that connects How Ashley balances family life, marketing, and running her business Key takeaway: You don’t need to do all the things to grow your business. You need to connect with real people, show up as yourself, and build systems that support your life, not consume it. Connect with Ashley: YouTube name Teach the Teacher Author with Ashley Mikkelsen https://www.youtube.com/@teachtheteacherauthor Social media links Insta- https://instagram.com/teach.the.teacherauthor FB- https://facebook.com/teach.the.teacherauthor FB group - Instagram for Teacher Authors https://www.facebook.com/groups/ReJUNEvateyourIGChallenge Website https://teachtheteacherauthor.com/ Contact email [email protected] landing page or freebie link How to start your email list: https://teachtheteacherauthor.myflodesk.com/dzu6rybc2d   Work with me: If you’re a teacher who wants to build income outside the classroom, whether through TPT, digital products, or mindset work, I’d love to support you. Book a 1:1 coaching call if you want personalized guidance on income planning,