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In this powerful WP Minute+ episode, Matt hosts Angela Jin, a seasoned WordPress community leader and now a leadership coach, to discuss how business owners and freelancers can lead through times of change and conflict. Drawing from her years at Automattic and her current work in leadership development, Angela shares why conflict and change are not only inevitable but also essential forces that shape outstanding leadership.

Angela explores key frameworks and mindsets leaders can adopt to navigate today’s chaotic world, including “stretch collaboration,” embracing experimentation over control, and leading with awareness and empathy. Whether you’re dealing with organizational uncertainty, WordPress community tensions, or high-stakes business shifts, Angela offers a calming and actionable roadmap for showing up with clarity, purpose, and humanity.

Note: Angela’s presentation was part of an exclusive webinar for members of The WP Minute. Sign up today to access more top-notch content!

Key Takeaways

Change is Inevitable, Conflict is Natural:

• Leadership begins with accepting that both are part of the journey, not problems to avoid.
• Great leaders focus first on how they show up internally before addressing external dynamics.

Embrace “Stretch Collaboration”:

• When agreement isn’t possible, progress depends on engaging across differences.
• Let go of the illusion of control and focus on experimentation and iteration.

Three Leadership Shifts to Practice:

1. Connect: Name your priorities and listen to others.
2. Experiment: Act without knowing the outcome – momentum matters.
3. Change: Leadership starts by reflecting on your role in the dynamic.

Actionable Reflections for Leaders:

• In your current challenge, how are you engaging and asserting?
• What small step can you take today to move forward?
• What are you willing to change in yourself to shift the situation?

Important Links

• The WP Minute+ Podcast: thewpminute.com/subscribe
• Connect with Angela Jin
  Twitter/X: https://x.com/angelasjin
  Website: https://angelasjin.com/
• Book a coaching session with Angela: https://calendly.com/angelajincoaching/freecoachingsession

Support us for as little as $5 to join our members-only Slack group.

Say thanks and learn more about our podcast sponsor Omnisend. 

In this episode of the WP Minute+ Podcast, Matt is joined by James Kemp, Core Product Manager at WooCommerce and long-time WordPress entrepreneur, to take a behind-the-scenes look at the WooCommerce ecosystem. James shares his journey from building Magento integrations and utility plugins to founding IconicWP, which was later acquired by StellarWP. Now at WooCommerce, James is focused on improving core product experiences and making WooCommerce more accessible and performant for builders and merchants alike.

The discussion covers topics including the challenges WooCommerce faces in onboarding users compared to platforms like Shopify, the importance of streamlining hosting and setup experiences, and how Automattic’s evolving strategy aims to make .com the best possible showcase for WordPress and WooCommerce. James also gives insight into company culture post-acquisition, recent layoffs, and the evolving product roadmap that includes AI integration, performance improvements, and better tooling for developers.

Key Takeaways

James’ Path to WooCommerce:

• James started in 2009 building Magento-WordPress integrations.
• Launched IconicWP to focus on utility-style WooCommerce plugins.
• Joined WooCommerce after StellarWP acquired Iconic.

WooCommerce’s Unique Challenges:

• Unlike Shopify, Woo requires merchants to handle hosting and technical setup upfront.
• The user journey is fragmented across plugins, hosts, and tools, making onboarding harder.
• WooCommerce is working to improve builder tools, site setup flows, and new user experiences.

Culture & Strategy at WooCommerce:

• The Woo team is tightly knit and focused on merchant success, despite industry criticism.
• Layoffs and restructuring at Automattic have prompted a renewed focus on prioritization.
• James emphasizes open communication, collaboration, and product-led growth.

AI and the Future of Development:

• AI is heavily encouraged at Woo and Automattic for experimentation and productivity.
• James uses AI daily for research, brainstorming, and development prototyping.
• A new AI initiative at Woo, led by James Page, explores ways to integrate smarter workflows.

Looking Ahead for Agencies & Freelancers:

• Builder tools, performance, import/export features, and compatibility improvements are coming.
• WooCommerce remains highly flexible and ideal for custom and complex client solutions.
• The Playground and blueprint initiatives could transform how users experience WooCommerce.

Important Links

• The WP Minute+ Podcast: thewpminute.com/subscribe
• Visit WooCommerce: woocommerce.com
• WooCommerce Developer Hub: developer.woocommerce.com
• Connect with James Kemp on Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/jamesckemp

Support us for as little as $5 to join our members-only Slack group.

Say thanks and learn more about our podcast sponsor Omnisend. 

On this episode of the WP Minute+ Podcast, Matt chats with Toby Cryns, founder of Minneapolis-based agency The Mighty Mo!, about what it’s like to run a WordPress agency for 20 years. From building sites in Flash before pivoting to WordPress after Steve Jobs’ infamous “Flash is dead” moment, Toby reflects on the evolution of the web industry, the rise of page builders, and the growing influence of AI on development and client expectations.

Toby shares his journey of overcoming fear around AI, his experiments with ChatGPT and Copilot, and how he’s using these tools to develop a WordPress-based project management app. He discusses how the small business and nonprofit web design market is shifting, the impact of DIY platforms like Wix and Squarespace, and the growing divide between clients who want $300 websites and those who need reliable long-term partners. Through honest anecdotes and hard-earned lessons, Toby explores pricing strategies, client relationships, project management, and the power of sticking with WordPress – even amid uncertainty in the ecosystem.

Key Takeaways

AI and WordPress Development:

• AI is useful as a junior-level coding assistant but still requires deep domain knowledge.
• Tools like ChatGPT and Copilot have saved Toby hundreds of hours on plugin development.
• AI won’t replace agencies but it will change workflows and create new opportunities.

Adapting to Market Shifts:

• The entry-level web market is increasingly lost to AI and DIY tools.
• High-end clients may be exploring prototyping internally before approaching agencies.
• Adaptation is key: agencies that don’t evolve risk becoming obsolete.

Running a Sustainable WordPress Agency:

• Project managers and account managers are game changers for scaling without burnout.
• WordPress plugins like Beaver Builder and services like ManageWP streamline delivery and maintenance.
• Raising prices (even a little) can be a healthy, overdue adjustment.

Community and the Future of WordPress:

• Despite recent governance controversies, Toby remains hopeful about the WordPress community.
• The community is WordPress’ greatest asset – leaders must help rebuild trust and direction.
• Gutenberg may yet become the publishing backbone of the modern web.

Important Links

• The WP Minute+ Podcast: thewpminute.com/subscribe
• Visit Toby’s Agency: https://themightymo.com/
• Connect with Toby on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tobycryns

Support us for as little as $5 to join our members-only Slack group.

Say thanks and learn more about our podcast sponsor Omnisend. 

In this episode of the WP Minute+ Podcast, Matt sits down with Mario Peshev, founder of DevriX, to discuss how marketing agencies must adapt to industry shifts in 2025. Mario shares insights from running a high-level WordPress consultancy, working with enterprise clients, and navigating the rapidly changing landscape of digital marketing, SEO, and AI. He shared his agency’s transition from general web development to specializing in complex, high-traffic websites and B2B SaaS, all while balancing the demands of an evolving tech ecosystem.

The discussion covers the impact of AI on marketing, the diminishing effectiveness of SEO, and how agencies should focus on strategic partnerships with platforms like HubSpot and Salesforce. Mario also shares his perspective on the current turbulence in the WordPress ecosystem, how agencies can stay competitive, and why embracing AI as an operational tool rather than a replacement for human creativity is crucial.

Key Takeaways

WordPress & Agency Growth:

• Agencies must specialize to remain competitive – generalist approaches are becoming less sustainable.
• WordPress remains a core tool for enterprises, but clients are increasingly exploring alternative platforms like Webflow.
• Transitioning to consultancy-based models can provide stability in uncertain markets.

AI’s Impact on Marketing & Web Development:

• AI enables faster prototyping but does not eliminate the need for experienced developers.
• AI-generated content is becoming oversaturated, requiring businesses to differentiate through authenticity and human insight.
• Marketing agencies should focus on AI-assisted operations while maintaining human-driven creativity.

SEO & Digital Marketing in 2025:

• SEO has become highly volatile, with algorithm changes reducing its reliability as a primary acquisition channel.
• Agencies should diversify their marketing strategies beyond just organic search.
• Strategic partnerships with platforms like HubSpot, Salesforce, and AWS can provide sustainable business growth.

Navigating WordPress Industry Changes:

• Ongoing debates around WordPress governance and Automatic’s influence create uncertainty in the community.
• Despite industry shifts, WordPress remains a powerful publishing platform with a strong ecosystem.
• Agencies must balance their reliance on WordPress while exploring other viable business models.

Important Links

• The WP Minute+ Podcast: thewpminute.com/subscribe
• Connect with Mario Peshev
  Twitter/X: https://x.com/no_fear_inc
  Website: https://mariopeshev.com/
• DevriX: https://devrix.com/

Support us for as little as $5 to join our members-only Slack group.

Say thanks and learn more about our podcast sponsor Omnisend. 

In this episode of the WP Minute+ Podcast, Matt is joined by Nathan Wrigley to discuss the evolving landscape of WordPress and the broader tech industry. The conversation touches on AI’s impact on development, the changing nature of podcasting, and how WordPress professionals must adapt to the rapid technological shifts. Nathan shares his experiences with AI tools, revealing his initial struggles and skepticism, while Matt describes his journey into AI-powered development, highlighting tools like ChatGPT, Bolt, and Repl.it.

They also explore AI’s philosophical and ethical implications, from its role in replacing repetitive coding tasks to the possibility of AI-driven software development reducing the need for traditional app stores. They also discuss how AI may empower individuals while simultaneously challenging the business models that many rely on. Matt and Nathan agree that while AI is reshaping the industry, understanding and integrating these technologies is essential for WordPress professionals looking to stay ahead in 2025 and beyond.

Key Takeaways

AI’s Impact on WordPress Development:

• AI is enabling faster prototyping but still struggles with consistency.
• WordPress professionals must learn to integrate AI tools into workflows to stay competitive.
• AI could eventually reduce the reliance on traditional app stores by allowing users to generate custom software on demand.

The Role of WordPress in a Changing Landscape:

• AI-driven development raises questions about the future demand for traditional web developers.
• WordPress remains a powerful tool for structured content management, but professionals must find new ways to add value.
• The rise of headless WordPress, AI-assisted content generation, and improved automation will shape the platform’s future.

Podcasting & Content Creation in 2025:

• The industry is shifting toward video-based podcasting, but audio still has a strong presence.
• Storytelling remains crucial to engaging content through AI-driven tools or traditional methods.
• Creators must be adaptable as platforms and audience behaviors evolve.

The Future of AI & Ethical Concerns:

• AI’s development speed is outpacing regulatory and ethical considerations.
• The sustainability of AI models and their economic impact remains uncertain.
• The next few years will determine whether AI continues to be venture-capital-driven or finds a stable commercial model.

Important Links

• The WP Minute+ Podcast: thewpminute.com/subscribe
• Connect with Nathan Wrigley
  Twitter/X: https://x.com/nathanwrigley
  Website: https://nathanwrigley.com/
• WP Builds Podcast: https://wpbuilds.com/

Support us for as little as $5 to join our members-only Slack group.

Say thanks and learn more about our podcast sponsor Omnisend. 

In this episode of the WP Minute+ Podcast, Matt welcomes Robert DeVore, a seasoned WordPress developer and entrepreneur, to discuss how open source changed his life. Robert shares his journey from launching a cannabis-related WordPress plugin in 2015 to rapidly developing AI-powered tools for the WordPress ecosystem today. He reflects on the challenges he faced in the cannabis industry, particularly being “debanked,” which ultimately pushed him to explore new opportunities in tech.

Robert dives into his current projects, including Plugin Pal, an AI-powered WordPress plugin generator that helps developers quickly create and customize plugins. He and Matt also explore the broader impact of AI on development, the sustainability of WordPress in an evolving landscape, and the importance of continuing to innovate within open source. Throughout the conversation, Robert emphasizes how WordPress and open source provided him with a career path that transformed his life and enabled him to give back to the community.

Key Takeaways

Robert’s Journey in WordPress & Open Source:

• Robert initially built a cannabis-related plugin but faced financial barriers due to industry regulations.
• He learned valuable lessons about business constraints and industry challenges.
• Pivoted to AI and rapid product development, releasing multiple WordPress tools.

AI’s Role in WordPress Development:

• AI enables faster development, but human oversight is still crucial.
• Tools like Plugin Pal generate structured, modern WordPress plugins.
• AI is not replacing developers but augmenting their workflow for efficiency.

Challenges & Opportunities for WordPress:

• WordPress remains a powerful platform for new developers and business owners.
• Competing with newer, AI-driven platforms requires emphasizing the flexibility of open-source solutions.
• Governance and leadership concerns in WordPress are ongoing but shouldn’t deter innovation.

Building a Business with Multiple Products:

• Robert embraces a diversified product approach rather than focusing on a single flagship plugin.
• Rapid product development allows him to test ideas and iterate based on user feedback.
• Twitter/X plays a key role in his marketing and community engagement.

Important Links

• The WP Minute+ Podcast: thewpminute.com/subscribe
• Connect with Robert DeVore
  Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/DevioRobert
  Website: https://robertdevore.com/
• Plugin Pal: https://pluginpal.app/

Support us for as little as $5 to join our members-only Slack group.

Say thanks and learn more about our podcast sponsor Omnisend. 

In this episode of the WP Minute+ Podcast, Matt sits down with Steve Burge, founder of PublishPress, to discuss why publishers choose WordPress despite growing competition and shifting industry trends. Steve shares his journey from teaching and writing books to building and managing a suite of WordPress plugins focused on content management. His experience with government agencies, universities, and major publishers has shaped his approach to developing tools that enhance WordPress for organizations that require structured publishing workflows.

The conversation touches on the strengths of WordPress as an open-source publishing platform, the challenges posed by competing tools like Substack and Ghost, and the ongoing debates around the future of WordPress. Steve also sheds light on the role of Newspack, the impact of AI in publishing, and the need for greater clarity and governance within the WordPress ecosystem.

Matt and Steve discuss the evolving landscape of web development, how agencies and publishers should navigate the changes, and what the future holds for WordPress as both a publishing and website-building tool.

Key Takeaways

WordPress & The Publishing Industry

• WordPress remains dominant for publishers, universities, and government organizations that require structured editorial workflows.
• Platforms like Newspack, Paywall Project, and LEDE are pushing innovation in WordPress-based publishing.
• The rise of Substack, Beehive, and other newsletter platforms is pulling smaller publishers away from WordPress.

Steve’s Journey from Training to Plugins

• Steve transitioned from in-person and online training to building WordPress plugins.
• PublishPress originated from the need for editorial workflows in WordPress, inspired by Drupal’s access control features.
• Acquired and improved various plugins, including MetaSlider and Co-Authors Plus.

Challenges & The Future of WordPress

• The WordPress ecosystem is facing fragmentation and governance concerns.
• AI and closed-source platforms like Webflow are attracting younger developers who might otherwise choose WordPress.
• Open-source principles remain crucial, but WordPress needs better governance and clearer commercial guidelines to thrive.

Is WordPress a Website Builder or a Publishing Tool?

• The dual focus on Gutenberg as both a website builder and publishing tool creates challenges.
• Some argue WordPress should specialize in publishing, leaving website-building to third-party tools like Elementor and Bricks.
• The community remains divided on whether WordPress should prioritize content creators or developers.

Important Links

• The WP Minute+ Podcast: thewpminute.com/subscribe
• Connect with Steve Burge
  Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/steveburge.com
  Twitter/X: https://x.com/SteveJBurge
  Website: https://steveburge.com/
• PublishPress: https://publishpress.com/

Support us for as little as $5 to join our members-only Slack group.

Say thanks and learn more about our podcast sponsor Omnisend. 

In this episode of the WP Minute+ Podcast, Matt welcomes Nat Miletic, founder of Clio Websites, to discuss the challenges and strategies for scaling a WordPress agency in 2025. Nat shares insights into the evolution of WordPress development, the role of AI in agency workflows, and how agencies can adapt to a rapidly changing digital landscape. He emphasizes the importance of standardizing workflows, focusing on client relationships, and leveraging AI to streamline operations while maintaining the human touch.

The conversation also covers the ongoing debate around page builders vs. custom development, why clients are drawn to platforms like Webflow, and how agency owners can differentiate themselves in a crowded market. Nat highlights the need for agencies to specialize, build efficient processes, and offer value beyond just website development. He also shares his experience growing Clio Websites from a solo venture to a thriving agency, including his hiring strategy and project management approach.

Key Takeaways

WordPress Agency Challenges & Growth:

• WordPress remains a powerful CMS, but fragmentation in tools and workflows can be overwhelming.
• Specializing in a particular stack (like Elementor or Bricks) helps streamline development and improve efficiency.
• Scaling requires hiring the right people and removing bottlenecks in workflow management.

AI & Automation in Web Development:

• AI is a valuable tool for SEO, content creation, and code assistance, but it won’t replace human creativity.
• Agencies should embrace AI to optimize processes, but client relationships remain a key differentiator.
• Future pricing models may factor in AI usage, with clients choosing between human-led and AI-assisted development.

Competing with DIY Platforms & Other CMSs:

• Platforms like Webflow and Wix appeal to clients due to their branding and perceived simplicity.
• Education is key—agencies must communicate the long-term benefits of WordPress over closed ecosystems.
• Many businesses prefer expert-built solutions rather than relying on DIY website builders.

Scaling a WordPress Agency:

• The key to agency growth is hiring strategically and standardizing processes.
• Transparent pricing and client pre-qualification save time and lead to better-fit projects.
• Implement clear project management structures and defined SOPs (standard operating procedures) to improve workflow efficiency.

Important Links

• The WP Minute+ Podcast: thewpminute.com/subscribe
• Connect with Nat Miletic:
  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/natmiletic
  Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/NatMiletic
• Clio Websites: https://cliowebsites.com/

Support us for as little as $5 to join our members-only Slack group.

Say thanks and learn more about our podcast sponsor Omnisend. 

In this episode of the WP Minute+ Podcast, Matt sits down with Tessa Kriesel, a seasoned expert in developer relations and founder of Built for Devs. Once deeply involved in WordPress, Tessa now works with developer-focused companies to help them engage technical audiences authentically. She shares insights on how companies can build trust, engage communities effectively, and think strategically beyond traditional marketing.

The conversation examines challenges freelancers and agencies faced in 2024 and what to expect moving into 2025. Tessa discusses the shift in DevRel from casual relationship-building to strategic engagement, the evolving role of AI in development, and how the tech industry is tightening budgets while demanding clear ROI. She also shares advice for WordPress product makers on pricing, sustainability, and community-building. She encourages them to challenge outdated practices like underpricing plugins and relying solely on Black Friday sales.

Key Takeaways

The Role of Developer Relations (DevRel)

• DevRel isn’t just about attending WordCamps and networking; it requires strategy and delivering value.
• Companies must build authentic relationships with developers while aligning with business objectives.
• WordPress has a strong community, but other ecosystems also foster deep connections.

Challenges in 2024 & Looking Ahead to 2025

• Economic pressures are causing tech companies to scrutinize spending and demand clear ROI.
• VC funding has shifted focus from user adoption to revenue generation.
• The lack of trust in marketing and business interactions makes it harder for companies to gain traction.

WordPress & Business Growth

• Many WordPress companies still underprice their products, following outdated open-source pricing models.
• Product makers should focus on value-based pricing rather than low-cost models with limited revenue potential.
• Relying on Black Friday discounts as a primary sales strategy is shortsighted. Products should be priced for sustainability year-round.

The Role of AI in Development & Business

• AI is a powerful tool for efficiency but still requires human oversight.
• Companies investing in AI-driven solutions must balance automation with trust-building.
• Developers who integrate AI into their workflows will gain a competitive edge but won’t be replaced entirely.

Important Links

• The WP Minute+ Podcast: thewpminute.com/subscribe
• Connect with Tessa Kriesel
  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tessak22/
  Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/TessaK22
• Learn more about Built for Devs: BuiltFor.Dev

Support us for as little as $5 to join our members-only Slack group.

Say thanks and learn more about our podcast sponsor Omnisend. 

In this episode of the WP Minute+ Podcast, Matt welcomes Laurence Bahiirwa, a WordPress developer at Freemius and the creator of the TechiePress YouTube channel. Laurence shares his journey from being a high school ICT teacher to freelancing and eventually landing a role at Freemius. He discusses how his YouTube channel played a crucial role in securing his current job, acting as both a portfolio and proof of his expertise.

The conversation explores content creation challenges, the importance of balancing a full-time job with a YouTube channel, and how AI is transforming WordPress development. We also explore the role of WordPress in education, how it serves as a gateway for aspiring developers, and how AI tools like ChatGPT and GitHub Copilot make coding more efficient. He also gives insights into Freemius’ latest initiatives, including improvements in data portability for plugin and theme sellers.

Key Takeaways

WordPress as a Career Path:

• Laurence started as a high school teacher before transitioning to freelancing and Freemius.
• His YouTube channel helped him stand out in job applications.
• WordPress serves as a foundation for learning broader web development skills.

Content Creation & YouTube Journey:

• Laurence started creating videos to fill gaps in WordPress development content.
• Balancing content creation with a full-time job is a challenge.
• Technical videos require significant preparation and editing time (6+ hours for a 15-minute video).

AI & WordPress Development:

• Using AI tools like ChatGPT and Copilot for development efficiency.
• AI accelerates problem-solving but still requires human oversight.
• Laurence sees AI as a tool for educators to enhance learning, not replace it.

Freemius & Data Liberation:

• Works on improving data export options for Freemius users.
• Freemius has trained an AI-powered bot to assist with documentation searches.
• Emphasizes transparency and control over user data.

Important Links

• The WP Minute+ Podcast: thewpminute.com/subscribe
• Laurence’s YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@techiepress
• Connect with Laurence
  Twitter/X: https://x.com/omukiguy
  Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/omukiguy.bsky.social
  Website: https://omukiguy.com/
• Freemius: https://freemius.com/

Support us for as little as $5 to join our members-only Slack group.