In 2023, I had the privilege of working with SOLE Effects, an inspiring organization committed to raising up leaders and empowering communities. From the very first meeting, I could tell their mission was about more than just technology — it was about people. They wanted a website and online learning platform that could truly serve their students, but like many nonprofits and small organizations, they were given advice that would have cost them far more money and flexibility than they needed. Together, we found a better way.
The Real Challenge
When I met the SOLE Effects team, they had been advised to build their main website on Squarespace and host their online learning through Kajabi. While both tools are popular, this setup came with major challenges: limited customization, high monthly fees, and a disconnect between their site and their courses. Their goal wasn’t just to “have a site” — they wanted a fully integrated, affordable, and flexible system to help them equip students and leaders for years to come.
What Most People Try (That Doesn’t Work)
SOLE Effects’ experience is not unique. Many organizations get steered toward expensive solutions because they seem easier at first. But here’s where they usually run into trouble:
- Paying for costly subscriptions: Platforms like Kajabi often start around $200+ a month, which quickly adds up for nonprofits and small businesses.
- Limited customization: Squarespace and Kajabi both restrict how much you can control student experience, design, and course structure.
- Lock-in with agencies: Some companies set clients up on closed systems, then keep them dependent on monthly retainers just to maintain the site.
- Overpaying for “extras”: Hosting providers upsell security packages or email filters that could easily be enabled for free.
These approaches may work in the short term, but they often leave clients stuck — paying too much for tools that don’t fully serve them.
What Actually Works
After sitting down with SOLE Effects and understanding their true goals, we decided to go in a different direction. By using WordPress and a carefully chosen free plugin, we built a fully customized online learning platform that delivered everything they needed — at a fraction of the cost.
Principle #1: Cost-Effective Solutions
Instead of spending over $200 each month, SOLE Effects now pays under $100 a year total for their website and online learning system. That’s a savings of more than $2,000 every year — money they can put directly back into their mission.
Principle #2: Full Customization and Control
With WordPress, we were able to design a learning experience tailored to their students. From course layouts to paywall integration, everything could be shaped around their goals. No more “making do” with platform limitations.
Principle #3: Freedom and Empowerment
We believe clients should never feel trapped by their tech. That’s why every site we build comes with drag-and-drop editing, making it just as easy as Squarespace — but with the added freedom of WordPress. SOLE Effects can now update, expand, and refine their site without being tied to us on a costly retainer.
Questions to Reflect On
- Are you paying for tools and services that don’t fully serve your mission?
- Do you feel limited by the platform your website or online courses are built on?
- What would it mean for your organization to save thousands of dollars a year while gaining more freedom and control?
FAQs
Is WordPress really easier to use than Squarespace?
Yes — especially when it’s set up right. We install drag-and-drop editors for every client, so editing feels just as simple as Squarespace, with far more flexibility.
Why not just stick with Kajabi for courses?
Kajabi can be a good fit in some cases, but for many nonprofits and small businesses, it’s overkill. WordPress plugins offer the same core functionality, without the $200+ monthly price tag.
Final Thoughts
Working with SOLE Effects has been one of the highlights of my career. Their passion for leadership and community is contagious, and I’m grateful to have played a part in building a platform that amplifies their impact. If you’ve ever felt stuck with an expensive or limiting website, know this: there are better options out there. You don’t have to overspend or give up control.
If this resonates with you, consider reaching out. I’d love to hear your story and explore how we can help find the best solution for your needs.