Crickets to Cha-Chings

Want to know what a $3M print on demand seller says is working right now? In this episode, Julie Berninger sits down with Christina to uncover the latest Etsy and Shopify trends driving sales in 2026. Learn how to spot trending designs, improve your listings with better mock-ups, and capitalize on growing demand for vintage graphics, personalized gifts, and popular color palettes. Christina also shares insights on scaling across multiple marketplaces, using tools for product research, navigating Facebook ad strategies, and adapting to the rise of AI-generated mock-ups. Whether you're just starting out or looking to grow your print-on-demand business, this episode is packed with actionable ideas you can apply today. 👉 Subscribe for weekly tips on Etsy printables, side hustles, and print on demand growth. Chapters (00:00) - Introduction to Christina and her success in print on demand (02:12) - The explosion of trends, especially stripes and vintage styles (05:07) - Identifying best-selling products and how to spot emerging trends (09:56) - The importance of niche-specific trends like comfort colors (13:00) - Popular design themes: club shirts with retro/hand-drawn styles (17:28) - Mock-up best practices, including AI vs. real-model photos (20:13) - The impact of AI on mock-up imagery and legal considerations (24:24) - Optimizing product photos and videos for listings (27:24) - Comparing Etsy and Shopify profitability and workload (31:15) - Facebook ad strategies: interest vs. broad targeting (34:13) - Testing and refining designs for success (35:26) - Resources and where to find more tips on Shopify and Etsy growth Resources 👉 Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/HCd0P2aGUNE -------------------- Follow Christina on: YouTube: @c.u.online Follow Julie and Gold City Ventures: Instagram: @goldcityventures Facebook: @goldcityventures

Etsy trends change fast — and the sellers who spot them early are the ones getting the clicks and sales. In this episode, Lizzie Smiley breaks down how to use vintage aesthetics, nostalgia, boho styles, and trendy fonts to make your print-on-demand and digital products stand out in crowded Etsy search results. 👉 Subscribe for weekly tips on Etsy, print-on-demand, and digital product success. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Lizzie's Entrepreneurial Journey 01:12 From Corporate to Etsy Success: Lizzie's Story 02:22 Scaling Etsy Handmade Signs to $12K Months 03:26 Transition to Teaching and Digital Products 03:56 Trend Report Focus: Q3 and Q4 Design Strategies 05:00 Vintage and Grand Millennial Aesthetics 06:20 Applying Vintage Trends to Printables and Gifts 09:25 Nostalgia Trends: 80s, 90s, and 70s Influences 11:13 Incorporating Nostalgic Elements into Designs 13:25 Doodle and Naive Core Trends in Design 15:40 Creating Trend-Driven Printables and Gifts 20:58 Wildflower and Boho Trends for Fall and Winter 23:35 Using Wildflowers and Earth Tones in Products 25:24 Trending Fonts: Retro, Varsity, and Hand-Drawn Styles 27:57 How to Improve Graphic Design Skills 28:37 Building Your Market Research Brain Cache 31:23 Lizzie's Trend Spotting Resources and Offerings 32:17 Closing Remarks and Final Tips Resources ✨ Trendspotting Membership: Learn how to spot winning Etsy trends before they get saturated. Get your first month for just $17 with code KEEP20. Etsy Trend Reports 🎨 20 AI Design Courses for $20: Learn how to create better digital products and print-on-demand designs faster with AI tools. 20 AI Design Courses for $20 | How to Sell Your Stuff 👉 Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/zKej7mLSnLU -------------------- Follow Lizzie on: YouTube: @howtosellyourstuff Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/howtosellyourstuff/ Follow Julie and Gold City Ventures: Instagram: @goldcityventures Facebook: @goldcityventures

Want to win Q2 with Etsy print on demand? Discover how personalized seasonal gifts can drive real sales for Mother's Day and Father's Day. 👉 Join Emily LIVE on April 29 for an exclusive Print-on-Demand training where you'll learn how to turn ideas into income. https://event.webinarjam.com/kn3pk/register/8m43zunm?webinar_id=45&utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=description&utm_campaign=partypod&utm_content=chris 👉Get the Free 30-Day Trial of Anywhere POD when you use code GOLDCITY30: https://go.goldcityventures.com/anywherepod/ In this episode, Chris from Anywhere POD reveals a hidden product opportunity and shows how AI-powered personalization can transform simple items into high-converting listings. Learn how to use tools like Variant Wizard to offer more options, streamline your workflow, and stand out in a crowded e-commerce space. If you're looking to grow your Etsy shop with smarter product strategies, this is a must-watch. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Anywhere POD and Seasonal Products 02:47 Exploring the Deco Plate: A Unique Product 05:57 Personalization and AI in Print on Demand 08:43 Leveraging AI for Unique Designs 12:00 Variant Wizard: Simplifying Product Listings 15:05 Engaging Kids in the Creative Process 18:01 Conclusion and Resources for Sellers Resources 👉 Sign up for the April 29 POD Training with Emily: https://event.webinarjam.com/kn3pk/register/8m43zunm?webinar_id=45&utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=description&utm_campaign=partypod&utm_content=chris https://goldcityventures.com/gift-lab-podcast - The Gift Lab Course ($100 off through May 4th at Midnight Eastern) 👉 Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/vPEnUBHHVmM -------------------- Follow Chris on: YouTube: @AnywherePOD Follow Julie and Gold City Ventures: Instagram: @goldcityventures Facebook: @goldcityventures

Summary Join Julie Berninger and Etsy expert Courtney Buteau as they explore her journey from handmade ornaments to top 1% Etsy seller of digital printables. Discover strategies for niche selection, product creation, shop organization, and balancing business with family life. Signup for the POD Webinar with Courtney & Emily on 4/29: https://event.webinarjam.com/kn3pk/register/8m43zunm?webinar_id=45&utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=description&utm_campaign=partypod&utm_content=courtney Takeaways Etsy shop success strategies Product research and niche selection Balancing family life with entrepreneurship Chapters 00:25 Starting on Etsy: Handmade Beginnings 00:55 Transition to Digital Products and Success 06:01 Finding Profitable Printables: Keyword Research 09:52 Using Etsy Favoriting and Snooping for Insights 10:59 Understanding Shopper Behavior and Trends 15:21 Expanding into Print on Demand 17:12 From Handmade Ornaments to Digital Success 18:47 Editable vs. Non-Editable Printables 20:10 Customer Feedback and Product Pivoting 22:30 Current Trends in Kid and Party Products 24:03 Upcoming Webinar and Closing Remarks Resources ➤ Signup for the POD Webinar with Courtney & Emily on 4/29: https://event.webinarjam.com/kn3pk/register/8m43zunm?webinar_id=45&utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=description&utm_campaign=partypod&utm_content=courtney ➤ Free Digital Products Workshop: https://goldcityventures.com/workshop-pdcst Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/LA8y8w0m9nU -------------------- Follow Julie and Gold City Ventures: https://www.instagram.com/goldcityventures https://www.facebook.com/goldcityventures

The April 30-day Printables Challenge will help you list 4 new competitive products on Etsy. Join Gold City Ventures co-founder Julie Berninger and VIP E-Printables Coach, Sasha Hutchison, as they take you through the templates, ideas, and process of the super popular challenge. Watch the "From $0 to $4,000 Per Month Selling Digital Products" webinar with Cody of Gold City Ventures here to learn more: Watch Here ☆ CHAPTERS ☆ 00:00 Introduction to the 30-Day Etsy Challenge 01:01 Live Events and Resources for Success 03:44 Using the Challenge Tracker Effectively 06:13 Product Ideas for the Challenge 09:29 Templates and Mockups for Success 12:26 Community Engagement and Prizes ☆ RESOURCES ☆ ➤ "From $0 to $4,000 Per Month Selling Digital Products" webinar: Watch Here ➤ E-Printables Course: Sign Up Here. ^ Enrollment ends Monday 3/30 If you join E-Printables now, you'll get the pictured challenge templates, tracker, an Etsy listing audit, and daily support in our VIP group. -------------------- Follow Julie and Gold City Ventures: https://www.instagram.com/goldcityventures https://www.facebook.com/goldcityventures

Summary Struggling to stand out on Etsy? Discover how Nancy Badillo, a digital marketing expert with over 15 years of experience, turned her setbacks into a thriving Etsy business. In this episode, Nancy breaks down the exact market research and keyword strategies that help sellers find profitable niches, boost visibility, and increase their average order value. Learn how to create irresistible digital products, enhance user experience, and use personalization and bundles to drive more sales. If you want to master Etsy trends and grow your shop with proven techniques, this episode is your roadmap to success. 👉 Subscribe for weekly tips on Etsy printables, digital products, and passive income strategies! Takeaways Nancy Badillo has over 15 years of experience in the Etsy space. Market research is crucial for identifying trends and opportunities. Niche down to create specific product variations that attract buyers. Avoid vague keywords and focus on long-tail keywords for better visibility. User experience is key; provide clear instructions and support for customers. Boost average order value by offering bundles and upsells. Personalization can increase customer satisfaction and sales. Design mistakes often include overcrowded images and poor formatting. Utilize keyword research tools to find high-demand, low-competition keywords. Engage customers with valuable freebies to build trust and encourage repeat purchases. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Nancy Badillo and Her Journey 03:00 Understanding Market Trends and Keywords 05:52 Effective Keyword Research Strategies 09:05 Niche Down: Creating Variations of Products 12:09 Common Keyword Mistakes to Avoid 14:57 Design Mistakes and User Experience 17:57 Boosting Average Order Value and Customer Retention 21:02 Final Thoughts and Where to Find Nancy Badillo Resources https://goldcityventures.com/gifting-gold-podcast - Free Workshop to learn the basics of selling POD https://goldcityventures.com/workshop-pdcst - Free workshop to learn the basics of selling digital products online 👉 Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/Y6V8rG1v8NY -------------------- Follow Nancy Badillo on: Instagram: @nancybadillo13 YouTube: @NancyBadillo Official Website: nancybadillo.com Follow Cody and Gold City Ventures: Instagram: @goldcityventures Facebook: @goldcityventures

Summary Want to create digital products faster and sell smarter on Etsy? In this episode of Crickets to Cha-Chings, Cody Berman sits down with Canva expert Jen Michele to reveal the exact tools and strategies that save time and boost sales. Jen shares how market research prevents wasted effort, why niching down improves visibility, and the Canva features every seller should know—like the brand kit for consistency, magic resize for instant product variations, bulk create for guided journals, and the all-new Canva Sheets for spreadsheets. Whether you're just starting or scaling your online shop, you'll learn practical design tips to work more efficiently and turn ideas into products customers actually want. 👉 Subscribe for weekly tips on Etsy printables, Canva design hacks, and digital product success. Takeaways Market research is crucial before creating products. Utilize Etsy's search bar for keyword research. Niche down your product ideas for better visibility. Canva's brand kit streamlines the design process. Magic Resize allows for quick adjustments to product sizes. Bulk Create can save time when generating multiple designs. Canva Sheets simplifies spreadsheet creation for digital products. Using Canva tools can significantly enhance productivity. Understanding market demand can prevent wasted effort. Canva continues to innovate and expand its features. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Digital Products and Design 03:02 The Importance of Market Research 06:04 Quick Editing Tips in Canva 08:57 Utilizing the Brand Kit in Canva 11:49 Magic Resize: Creating Multiple Formats 14:41 Bulk Create for Guided Journals 19:21 Exploring Canva Sheets 24:17 Conclusion and Resources Resources https://goldcityventures.com/gifting-gold-podcast - Free Workshop to learn the basics of selling POD https://goldcityventures.com/workshop-pdcst - Free workshop to learn the basics of selling digital products online 👉 Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xgkJFsOtPLs -------------------- Follow Jen Michele on: Instagram: @imjenmichele Jen's Canva Course: https://go.goldcityventures.com/jen-michele-canva-course Follow Cody and Gold City Ventures: Instagram: @goldcityventures Facebook: @goldcityventures

Summary Host Julie Berninger interviews Chelsea Shelton, a successful Etsy seller and coach, about the concept of evergreen printables. Sign up for the September 23rd Live Training with Chelsea here: https://event.webinarjam.com/register/25/w26nwaoo?utm_source=podcast Chelsea shares her journey from being an elementary school teacher to excelling in the printable space on Etsy. The conversation explores various evergreen product ideas, including games, scavenger hunts, gift tags, signature drink signs, and brain dump templates, emphasizing their potential for consistent sales throughout the year. Chelsea also discusses the importance of using existing templates creatively and the role of keywords in product visibility. Takeaways Evergreen printables can sell month over month, year over year. Bingo is a trending printable that can be customized. Scavenger hunts are versatile and can be themed for any occasion. Gift tags can be repurposed for various events beyond holidays. Signature drink signs are popular for weddings and parties. Brain dump templates help organize thoughts and are gaining popularity. Using AI can assist in generating creative ideas for printables. Repurposing existing templates saves time and effort. Evergreen products help maintain consistent sales throughout the year. Keywords are crucial for improving product visibility on Etsy. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Evergreen Printables 02:46 Exploring Evergreen Product Ideas 05:42 Diving into Scavenger Hunts 08:47 The Importance of Year-Round Sales 11:20 Creative Gift Tag Concepts 14:26 Innovative Brain Dump Templates Resources Live Webinar Sept 23rd: https://event.webinarjam.com/register/25/w26nwaoo?utm_source=youtube E-Printables Course: https://goldcityventures.com/e-printables-course/ Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/5ovUEbeVZks

Summary In this episode of the Crickets to Cha-ching's podcast, Julie Berninger and Hannah Gardner of ProfitTree discuss five emerging trends in the Etsy marketplace. They explore the new features of ProfitTree, a tool designed to help Etsy sellers track profits and optimize their listings. Takeaways ProfitTree helps sellers track profits and optimize ads. Personalized baby books are a growing niche in the market. Embroidered products can be sourced locally for customization. Cruise shirts are popular for group sales and bulk orders. Personalized dog shirts are trending and can be customized easily. Digital patterns are a low-cost entry point for sellers. AI can assist in creating digital products and patterns. Etsy favors listings that encourage bulk purchases. Understanding minimum order quantities can reduce startup costs. Networking with local artisans can enhance product offerings. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Etsy Trends 02:46 Exploring the First Trend: Personalized Baby Books 08:00 Second Trend: Embroidered Blankets 11:16 Third Trend: Cruise Shirts 14:48 Fourth Trend: Personalized Dog Shirts 17:00 Fifth Trend: Digital Patterns Resources https://goldcityventures.com/workshop-pdcst - Free workshop to learn the basics of selling digital products online https://goldcityventures.com/pdcst - Gold City Ventures Website Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/OzQZIpmi3mQ About ProfitTree 1 Month Free Trial of ProfitTree: https://go.goldcityventures.com/profittree-free-trial LifeTime ProfitTree Offer: https://go.goldcityventures.com/lifetime-profittree

Summary Emily's Free POD webinar: https://goldcityventures.com/gifting-gold-podcast In this episode, Julie Berninger and Emily discuss the latest trends in print-on-demand products, focusing on five unique items that are currently performing well on Etsy. Emily shares her insights on wedding vow journals, funny career candles, teacher tote bags, personalized ornaments, and hidden message mugs, providing practical advice for beginners looking to enter the print-on-demand space. The conversation emphasizes the importance of understanding customer needs and the potential for unique, giftable products in the e-commerce market. Takeaways Emily crossed $600,000 in revenue from her POD shop. Wedding vow journals are a surprising bestseller on Etsy. Funny career candles connect with specific audiences. Teacher tote bags offer a unique gift option. Ornaments can sell year-round, not just during holidays. Hidden message mugs are a trendy gift idea. Etsy is a go-to platform for unique gifts. Understanding customer needs is crucial for product success. Simple designs can lead to significant sales. Print on demand allows for easy entry into e-commerce. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Print on Demand Success 05:36 Exploring Wedding Vow Journals 10:51 The Rise of Funny Career Candles 13:43 Innovative Teacher Tote Bags 18:06 Year-Round Sales of Ornaments 22:53 Hidden Message Mugs: A New Trend Resources https://goldcityventures.com/gifting-gold-podcast - Emily's Free POD Webinar https://goldcityventures.com/gift-lab-podcast - The Gift Lab Course https://goldcityventures.com/pdcst - Gold City Ventures Website Follow Emily on: https://www.instagram.com/ecommemily - Emily's Instagram https://www.youtube.com/@ecommemily - Emily's YouTube

Summary In this episode of the Crickets to Cha-chings podcast, hosts Julie Berninger and Cody Berman discuss Cody's recent success with a new Etsy shop, sharing insights on strategies for achieving sales milestones, the importance of effective listing images, and the launch of a new eBook (grab it here - https://goldcityventures.com/1000-podcast). They also introduce a new podcast format called 'Hidden Gems' that will feature successful Etsy sellers sharing actionable tips. Additionally, they explore current trends in wall art and emerging aesthetic styles in the market. Takeaways Cody achieved $10,000 in sales in a new Etsy shop. Spending 5-10 hours a week can yield significant results. Main listing images are crucial for attracting buyers. First sales can happen quickly with the right strategies. The new eBook offers detailed strategies for Etsy success. The podcast will feature actionable insights from successful sellers. Many sellers are underpricing their digital products. Emerging aesthetic trends can influence product design. It's important to align product themes with market trends. The new podcast format aims to provide concise, actionable content. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Gold City Ventures 02:24 Cody's Etsy Success Story 05:01 Scaling with Digital Products 09:02 The Importance of Listing Images 15:24 New eBook Launch 17:41 Introducing the Hidden Gems Format 20:48 Trends in Wall Art and Aesthetics Resources https://goldcityventures.com/1000-podcast - Ebook to learn how to scale an Etsy shop to $1,000/month https://goldcityventures.com/workshop-pdcst - Free workshop to learn the basics of selling digital products online https://goldcityventures.com/pdcst - Gold City Ventures Website

Julie Berninger and Hannah Gardner discuss using Profit Tree to run better Etsy Ad campaigns. Link for the 1 Month Free Trial of ProfitTree: https://profittree.io/course-promo?via=julie17 They delve into the use of Profit Tree to analyze ad performance, emphasizing the difference between ROAS (Return on Ad Spend) and TACOS (Total Advertising Cost of Sale). The discussion highlights how effective ad strategies can lead to increased organic growth and overall profitability. Takeaways: 1 Etsy ads can significantly increase profit if used correctly. Understanding your ad costs is crucial for profitability. 2 TACOS provides a more holistic view of ad performance than ROAS. 3 Organic sales should be established before running ads. 4 Not all products are suitable for advertising; focus on high-margin items. Investing in ads can lead to long-term organic growth. 5 The quality of your product listings impacts ad effectiveness. Data collection and analysis are key to improving ad strategies. 6 Etsy may favor sellers who invest in ads, creating a competitive edge. Resources: 1 Month Free Trial of ProfitTree: https://profittree.io/course-promo?via=julie17 LifeTime ProfitTree Offer: https://lifetime.profittree.io/?via=julie40 Gold City Ventures: https://goldcityventures.com/ Hannah Gardner @ecommhannah on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@EcomHannah Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/a1PtdpEWJ04

Julie Berninger welcomes back Emily, a successful Etsy seller who has generated nearly $450,000 in revenue in her first two years. They discuss the dynamics of holiday sales, particularly during Q4, and share valuable tips for print on demand sellers. Emily emphasizes the importance of personalization, customer service, and the need to prepare throughout the year for the holiday rush. They also announce an upcoming print on demand course aimed at helping aspiring Etsy sellers optimize their shops and succeed in the competitive market. Takeaways Emily generated nearly $450,000 in her first two years on Etsy. Q4 is crucial for print on demand sellers, with sales often doubling. You don't need to sell holiday-specific items to succeed. Personalization can significantly boost sales and customer satisfaction. Customer service is vital during the busy holiday season. Investing in your shop year-round is key to success. Ornaments and gift-friendly items can be great alternatives to apparel. Setting clear shop announcements can help manage customer expectations. Sales peak around Black Friday and remain high until early December. Planning for post-holiday sales is essential for continued success. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Emily's Success Story 02:51 Understanding Q4 and Holiday Sales Dynamics 05:51 Tips for Print on Demand Sellers 09:01 The Importance of Personalization 11:54 Customer Service Strategies for Q4 14:53 Preparing for Q4 Throughout the Year 17:58 Exciting New Course Announcement 21:03 Final Thoughts and Holiday Shopping Inspiration Resources: Gold City Ventures https://goldcityventures.com/