From On-Court to Online Tennis Instruction to Impact Students All Over the World
Ian Westermann was a full time club tennis pro with an aptitude for technology, some experience behind the mic and a desire to make an impact on tennis players beyond his geographical location.
His online business, Essential Tennis, started with a podcast and a blog in 2008 and has evolved into one of the premier instructional sites for tennis enthusiasts who want to improve their game.
Essential Tennis offers stand-alone courses, a membership community and exclusive in-person events in cool places like Hawaii, Indian Wells and Costa Rica. In addition the site has published a prolific archives of free content in the form of youtube videos, blog posts and two podcasts.
Ian discusses the evolution of his business, from doing everything on his own to the decision to add technical and on-court team members. We also talk about how he's created balance in his life.
Discreet Skills Discussed on the Show
Ian had a comfort level with computers and broadcasting as a ham radio operator from a young age. These skills along with his tennis expertise combined for a thriving online business that is both challenging and satisfying.
- graphic design
- basic computer skills
- ham radio operation
- tennis (playing and teaching)
- willingness to learn the components of his business at the beginning
Tools and Platforms
Some of the tools that Ian uses to deliver courses and manage his membership community weren't mentioned in the interview but are identified below.
- Coachseye
- WordPress
- Memberium (plugin)
- Learndash (plugin)
- vimeo.com
- Youtube.com (live coaching for members)
- facebook streaming (also live but free online)
Learn More and Connect with Ian
- Visit Essential Tennis to learn more about the courses, membership and exclusive live events.
- Check out the "Essential Tennis" podcast and "Shankcast" on Apple podcast or your favorite podcast player.
- Essential Tennis Youtube channel full of instructional tutorials to improve all aspects of your game.
- ET's Instagram, Facebook and Twitter.
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