Tyler Channel runs PaywallProject which is a WordPress stack for news publishers. Tyler recommends that the publishers use a paywall to drive revenue, no matter how small or regional their audience is. When he was in college, Tyler heard a professor say that someone needs to discover a way to make newspapers sustainable. That's been his goal for years, and now he's making it happen.
Find out more: https://www.paywallproject.com/
Links mentioned in this episode:
Topics we covered in this episode:
- Paywall Project focuses on local publishers' needs.
- Sustainability in local news is a primary goal.
- WordPress is a preferred platform for publishing.
- The project started with small West Virginia newspapers.
- Expansion has led to international clients.
- Consulting is a significant part of the service.
- AI is being utilized to enhance local event listings.
- Migration from other CMSs is a common challenge.
- Building trust within communities is crucial for growth.
- The newsletter is a key tool for audience engagement. Streamlining login processes can reduce admin headaches for publishers.
- Converting free users to paid subscribers can take time.
- Local publishers face unique challenges in the digital landscape.
- The print component of newspapers is often a loss leader.
- Digital subscriptions are becoming the primary revenue source for publishers.
- Emerging digital publishers are focusing on niche content.
- Revenue models are diversifying beyond traditional advertising.
- The Paywall Project aims to support local news sustainability.
- Publishers are increasingly moving towards digital-first strategies.
- The future of local journalism is focused on community engagement and digital innovation.
