Self Host Ghost – Own Your Content Business
Created by Dave Swift
$79.00
Included in the course:
What You'll Learn
Course Description
Tired of SaaS platforms nickel and diming you? Ready to ditch the subscription treadmill and take control of your online business once and for all? This course isn’t just some cookie-cutter tutorial. It’s a step-by-step playbook that starts from zero and catapults you into the driver’s seat of your very own content-driven empire.
Deploying a VPS on Vulture, encrypting your server to Fort Knox levels, and installing the modern tech stack that powers Ghost.
And get this: it’s all laid out in an idiot-proof, copy-paste format. Trust me, you can’t mess this up.
This course isn’t just about the essentials, I’m also pulling back the curtain on advanced strategies. Want to scale your storage without hurting your wallet? It’s in there. Ever think about running multiple Ghost websites from one server? Yep, got you covered. I’ll even walk you through migrating from WordPress without losing a single byte of content.
Bottom line: this isn’t just a course, it’s your blueprint for total online independence. Stop playing by someone else’s rules. Let’s do this.
Key Highlights
Learn The Command Line & Expand Your Skillset
Self Host Ghost is a perfect course to teach you the fundamentals of using the command line. Learning this valuable skill opens the doors to utilizing a plethora of valuable business software all while keeping costs down, controlling your data, and ensuring long-term stability for your business infrastructure.
Hit The Inbox! Learn Proper Ghost Email Configuration
I'll show you exactly how to configure Ghost's email sending through Mailgun so that you can hit the inbox everytime.
Setup Automated Cloud Backup
Avoid expensive backup services for your self-hosted Ghost website. You'll learn how to setup automated backups to any of 50+ cloud providers like Google Drive or Dropbox.
Setup Ghost on a Subdomain or in a Subfolder
Learn advanced configurations, like the exact steps you need to follow to install Ghost on subdomain or even how to run it on a subfolder of another site running on Shopify, WordPress, or any other platform.
Course Outline
Module 1: Deployment & Setup
Deploying a VPS on Vultr
Dive into the world of cloud computing as we walk you through the step-by-step process of deploying a Virtual Private Server (VPS) using Vultr. Learn how to navigate the dashboard and get your server up and running in minutes.
Securing the Server
Security is paramount when managing a VPS. This lesson focuses on key measures to protect your server from unauthorized access, including firewalls and intrusion detection systems.
Non-Root User & SSH Keys
Learn the best practices for server management by creating a non-root user and setting up Secure Shell (SSH) keys for secure login. Cut down on risks associated with root user access without compromising functionality.
Installing MySQL, Nginx, Node.js, & Ghost
Complete your setup by installing essential software packages like MySQL for database management, Nginx for web server functionality, Node.js for JavaScript runtime, and Ghost for CMS capabilities.
Module 2: Email & CDN Configuration
Transactional Email Sending
Master the art of sending automated emails by setting up a transactional email service. Understand how it differs from bulk email and why it’s crucial for user engagement.
Bulk Email Sending
Learn how to execute effective mass email campaigns for newsletters or marketing without getting marked as spam. Uncover the tools and tactics to make your bulk emails hit the mark.
Using a CDN
Speed up your website load times globally with a Content Delivery Network (CDN). Discover how to configure and leverage a CDN for better user experience.
Why Image Optimization Isn’t Necessary
Uncover the myths and realities of image optimization on Ghost. Know why it's okay to skip it without sacrificing performance.
Module 3: Migration Mastery
Exporting/Backing Up Your Ghost Site
Understand the steps involved in creating a foolproof backup of your Ghost site. Learn various export options and best practices to keep your data safe.
Importing Content To A Self-Hosted Site
Transition seamlessly from a managed service to a self-hosted environment. This lesson will guide you through importing your saved content without hitches.
Migrating from WordPress
If you're moving from WordPress to Ghost, this lesson is for you. Learn how to smoothly transfer your posts, pages, and media without losing SEO ranking.
Module 4: Maintenance & Backups
Ghost CLI Basics
Familiarize yourself with the Ghost Command Line Interface (CLI) to efficiently manage your Ghost instance. Pick up essential commands and their use-cases.
Updating Ghost
Keep your Ghost site in top shape by learning how to update it with minimal downtime. Understand the versioning and how to safely move from one version to another.
Backup Strategies
Ensure that you're prepared for any data loss scenario. Learn different backup strategies including local, cloud, and hybrid solutions.
Automating Cloud Backups with Rclone & Wraith
Take the hassle out of backups by setting up automation with Rclone and Wraith. Learn how to schedule regular backups to your preferred cloud storage.
Restoring VPS Backups & VPS Console
In case things go south, know how to get your site back online. This lesson covers restoring VPS backups and how to access the VPS console for troubleshooting.
Module 5: Advanced Techniques
Changing Your Domain Name
Rebranding? Learn the correct way to change your domain name without affecting SEO rankings or breaking links.
Connecting Block Storage
Expand your site's storage capabilities by connecting block storage to your VPS. Understand the process and the benefits it offers.
Installing Pintura Image Editor
Add more functionality to your Ghost site by integrating Pintura, an advanced image editor. Walk through the installation process and learn its features.
Installing Ghost in a Subfolder (via Cloudflare)
Learn how to install your Ghost instance in a subfolder through Cloudflare. Understand how this affects your website’s structure and performance.
Adding More Ghost Sites
If one Ghost site isn’t enough, learn how to add more. This lesson will guide you on how to host multiple Ghost sites on a single VPS.
Course Requirements
To get the most out of this course, participants should have the following:
Basic Understanding of Web Technologies: Familiarity with HTML, CSS, and JavaScript is beneficial but not mandatory.
Command-Line Experience: Some comfort with using the terminal or command line will be helpful, otherwise this is a great place to start.
Cloud Computing Knowledge: A rudimentary understanding of cloud services is useful but not mandatory.
Software Tools: A web browser, a terminal (included on all major platforms), and access to a text editor like Visual Studio Code (available for free on all platforms).
Hardware: Any computer with a stable internet connection.
Who this course is for
This course is designed for a range of participants including:
Server Management Beginners: Those new to server management and want a comprehensive guide.
Web Developers: Professionals looking to enhance their back-end skills.
Business Owners: Individuals who want to host their websites without relying on third-party services.
Digital Marketers: Those involved in email campaigns and interested in transactional and bulk email sending.
Migration Curious: Anyone considering switching CMS platforms or migrating to a self-hosted solution.
Frequently Asked Questions
The course consists of 20+ video lessons totaling over two hours of instruction.
Yes, you can complete the lessons at your own pace.
While not mandatory, having your own server will provide hands-on experience.
A basic understanding of web technologies is beneficial but not required.
Yes, the course material is updated to keep it current with Ghost and industry standards.
The course covers both scenarios, making it ideal for beginners and those looking to migrate.
Absolutely, automation of cloud backups is covered in the Maintenance & Backups section.
Yes, there is a 30-day money-back guarantee if you're not satisfied with the course. All we ask is to tell us how we can improve.
You get access to the private Ghost community when you join the course, where Dave will be replying to questions regularly.
One-on-one consultations are available but may be subject to additional fees. See here for details.
Yes, suggestions for future lessons are welcome and may be incorporated into course updates.
Author Bio
Dave Swift is a seasoned professional in the tech industry, with a focus on business software tutorials. Dave has produced insightful video content for industry leaders like Brainstorm Force, Elementor, Cloudways, and LearnDash. Dave also helps other content creators with their tech at Client Amp, a WordPress management business.
With a background in music (and a Cum Laude degree from Berklee College of Music), he brings a unique blend of technical expertise and creativity to his teaching style.
Dave’s courses are not only educational but also highly engaging, making complex topics accessible and easy to understand. Whether you’re a beginner or seasoned developer, Dave’s approach is tailored to help you elevate your skills.