Say thanks and learn more about our podcast sponsor Omnisend. 

I recently caught up with Eric Karkovac to look back at his most influential WP Minute articles from 2024. 

As our resident voice for WordPress freelancers, Eric brings a unique perspective - he doesn't just write about WordPress, he actively builds client sites and runs his own business. This combination of hands-on experience shapes everything he writes.

Our conversation explored the real challenges facing WordPress professionals right now. From managing endless plugin subscriptions to navigating the Automatic vs. WP Engine situation, Eric's articles tackle the issues that matter to freelancers and small agencies. What I appreciate most about Eric's writing is his practical approach - he's focused on helping WordPress professionals find workable solutions to everyday challenges.

Looking ahead to 2025, we talked about what matters most for WordPress professionals: building strong client relationships, being selective about new projects, and keeping the human element front and center in our technical work. For anyone running a WordPress business, this episode offers practical strategies from someone who understands the day-to-day reality of our work.

Key Takeaways for WordPress Professionals:

• Focus on proactive client communication and relationship building
• Consider the total cost of plugin subscriptions when planning projects
• Stay adaptable with WordPress changes while maintaining client trust
• Quality client relationships matter more than quantity
• Keep human experience at the forefront of technical solutions

Important URLs:

• wpminute.com/subscribe - Subscribe to our newsletter
• https://thewpminute.com/how-does-automattic-vs-wp-engine-impact-freelancers/
• https://thewpminute.com/why-small-wordpress-ui-changes-are-a-big-deal/
• https://thewpminute.com/go-ahead-and-use-wordpress-your-way/
• https://thewpminute.com/using-wordpress-often-means-subscriptions-a-lot-of-them/
• https://thewpminute.com/data-liberation-needs-to-happen-within-wordpress-too/
• Eric on Bluesky
• Eric on X

Say thanks and learn more about our podcast sponsor Omnisend. 

I recently sat down with Jason Resnick, founder of NurtureKit.co, to explore the changing landscape of email marketing as we head into 2024. The timing couldn't be better - with major shifts happening at Gmail, Yahoo, and Apple, WordPress professionals need to understand how these changes impact their email strategies.

Jason shared fascinating insights about how email platforms are pushing us toward more authentic engagement. Gone are the days of simple broadcast newsletters. Success now depends on creating genuine two-way conversations with subscribers and adapting to new authentication requirements. For WordPress professionals managing client relationships or running product businesses, these changes are particularly relevant.

This episode dives deep into practical strategies for improving deliverability and engagement, including innovative approaches like incorporating audio messages in email sequences. Whether you're running an agency, selling WordPress products, or building a community, you'll find actionable advice to make your email marketing more effective in today's evolving landscape.

Key Takeaways for WordPress Professionals:

• Email remains the highest-converting marketing channel
• Focus on creating genuine conversations with subscribers, not just broadcasting
• Major email providers now require stricter authentication and engagement metrics
• List maintenance and segmentation are crucial for deliverability
• Consider incorporating audio elements to build trust and engagement

Important URLs:

• NurtureKit.co - Email marketing consultancy
• youtube.com/nurturekit - Educational content
• rezzz.com - Jason's website

Say thanks and learn more about our podcast sponsor Omnisend. 

In this fascinating conversation with Mark Szymanski, we dove into our evolving perspectives on AI tools, particularly in coding and content creation. What makes this discussion particularly interesting is how both Mark and I have shifted from skepticism to seeing AI as a powerful assistant in our work. I shared my recent experience using Claude and Cursor to build a web application - something I never thought I'd be able to do as a non-developer. While I'm not writing code in the traditional sense, I'm learning to be an effective "prompt engineer" and project manager for these AI tools.

The conversation revealed how AI is changing not just how we code, but how we approach content creation and research. Mark brought valuable insights about using AI for YouTube content optimization, from generating chapter markers to brainstorming video titles. We both agreed that while these tools are powerful assistants, they're not magic - they require human direction and understanding to be truly effective.

What really struck me during our discussion was the broader implications for WordPress and web development. While these AI tools are making it easier for non-developers to build custom solutions, they also highlight the incredible value of established platforms like WordPress. There's a fascinating tension between the accessibility these new tools provide and the depth of functionality that traditional platforms offer.

Key Takeaways for WordPress Professionals

• AI coding tools like Cursor are making development more accessible to non-developers, but require strategic thinking and project management skills
• Claude 3.5 offers significantly better coding assistance compared to earlier versions, including detailed explanations and suggestions
• AI can significantly speed up content creation workflows, especially for tasks like YouTube chapter markers and content optimization
• The combination of multiple AI tools (Claude, ChatGPT, Cursor) can provide better results than relying on a single solution
• Current limitations include token usage restrictions and the need to maintain context between sessions
• Professional developers can likely leverage these tools to dramatically increase their productivity
• The WordPress ecosystem remains valuable despite these new tools, but may need to evolve

Important URLs & Resources

• cursor.sh - AI-powered code editor
• mjs.bio - Mark's website and newsletter
• wpminute.com/subscribe - WP Minute newsletter (now on Kit)
• Whisper AI Transcription (Mac app for transcription)
• kit.com - Newsletter platform (formerly ConvertKit)

Say thanks and learn more about our podcast sponsor Omnisend. 

I sat down with Brian Coords to dive into WordPress 6.7 and specifically the new Twenty Twenty-Five default theme. While 6.7 might not seem like a groundbreaking release at first glance, it's laying important groundwork with features like block bindings and improvements to the block editor. Brian and I had an interesting discussion about the Twenty Twenty-Five theme's minimalist approach and how it differs from Twenty Twenty-Four in terms of default homepage layouts and patterns.

What really caught my attention was our conversation about the evolving WordPress landscape, particularly how AI tools are changing the game for web development. Brian made a great point about how AI isn't necessarily going to replace developers, but it's dramatically reducing the time from idea to MVP (Minimum Viable Product). This led us into a deeper discussion about WordPress's role in an increasingly AI-powered world and whether the open-source argument will remain as compelling when people can quickly build solutions using AI and proprietary platforms.

We wrapped up with some thoughts on the future of social media, RSS feeds, and the importance of owning your content - themes that continue to be relevant in our WordPress community even as new platforms emerge.

## Key Takeaways for WordPress Professionals

- WordPress 6.7 introduces block bindings, allowing blocks to pull data from custom fields (though currently requiring code to implement)
- Twenty Twenty-Five theme takes a more minimal approach compared to Twenty Twenty-Four, focusing on photography and artistic content
- New preference toggle allows users to disable the pattern suggestions popup when creating new pages
- Theme switching between Twenty Twenty-Four and Twenty Twenty-Five isn't seamless - expect to rebuild content
- The Patterns UI in WordPress could benefit from improvements in discoverability and organization
- AI tools are changing how quickly people can build MVPs, potentially affecting WordPress's market position

## Important URLs & Resources

- WordPress Playground: https://playground.wordpress.net
- Brian's YouTube channel: @BrianCoords 
- WP Minute subscribe page: https://wpminute.com/subscribe

Say thanks and learn more about our podcast sponsor Omnisend. 

In this episode, I sat down with Raquel Manriquez, Community Manager at Elegant Themes, to discuss her exciting new venture - PressConf. This event is a spiritual successor to the legendary Pressnomics conference, which was a cornerstone event for WordPress business professionals. Raquel shares her journey of launching her own business, Wonderland Curious, and how the idea to revive this beloved conference came from a genuine need in the WordPress community for a dedicated business-focused event. What makes this particularly special is that Raquel secured the blessing from Pressnomics founders Josh and Sally Strebel before moving forward with this new iteration.

What really struck me during our conversation was Raquel's authentic approach to honoring the legacy of Pressnomics while bringing her own vision to PressConf. The event will maintain key elements that made Pressnomics special - like hosting it at the Mission Palms Resort in Tempe and keeping presentations exclusive to in-person attendees (no recordings). But she's also adding her own touch with structured networking time to maximize the valuable connections made at these events.

The WordPress business community has been missing a flagship event focused purely on the business side of WordPress, and PressConf aims to fill that void. Hearing Raquel's passion and seeing the talented team she's assembled gives me confidence that this will be a must-attend event for WordPress professionals in 2024.

Key Takeaways for WordPress Professionals

• PressConf will be a single-track, business-focused WordPress event with no recordings - you must be present to experience the content
• The event features invite-first speakers, targeting industry leaders and known names in WordPress
• Unlike WordCamps, this is specifically designed for "hallway trackers" - people who value high-level business networking
• The venue (Mission Palms Resort in Tempe) is specifically chosen to create an intimate setting that encourages networking
• There will be structured networking time built into the schedule, separate from talks and social events
• The event runs April 23-26, 2024, with two full days of talks and one day for activities

Important URLs & Resources

• PressConf website: https://pressconf.events
• Twitter: @Press__conf
• Instagram: @pressconf
• Early bird tickets available at $680 for VIP access and $580 for general admission

Say thanks and learn more about our podcast sponsor Omnisend. 

On the latest episode of The WP Minute+ podcast, I had the pleasure of chatting with Roger Williams from Kinsta. Roger shared his journey into the WordPress space, starting from his early days building websites for clients to his current role heading up content at Kinsta.

We discussed the evolution of video and audio content over the past decade. Roger reminisced about the challenges of editing videos back in 2009-2010 compared to today, where tools like Riverside and Descript have simplified the process tremendously. He emphasized the importance of authenticity in content, noting that younger audiences are turned off by overly polished, scripted material.

Roger provided insights into Kinsta's content strategy, which currently focuses heavily on the WordPress community. He highlighted the value of having genuine conversations with people in the space to understand their needs and challenges. While Kinsta does offer hosting for other technologies beyond WordPress, Roger indicated those areas may be explored more in the future.

We also touched on the challenges of representing a well-respected brand and battling impostor syndrome. Roger credited Kinsta's supportive executive team in helping him build confidence. He advised focusing on praise over criticism, especially in the early stages, to help content creators find their voice. The key is to get something out there consistently, learn from it, and iterate.

Key Takeaways for WordPress Professionals

• Authenticity is key in content creation. Don't be afraid to leave in some "ums" and imperfections.
• When getting started with content, keep it simple. Platforms like LinkedIn provide a ready audience for testing material.
• Aim to create at least 50 pieces of content before worrying too much about analytics and optimization. This volume helps you find your voice and preferred topics.
• For brands, heavy praise and light criticism help empower content creators, especially early on. Build up the team's confidence first.
• Stay aware of content ownership concerns when publishing primarily to third-party platforms. Have a plan B, like your own WordPress site.

Important Links

• Aware - LinkedIn analytics and engagement tool
• Boston WordPress Meetup - Roger will be speaking here in late November 2024
• Roger Williams on LinkedIn
• Support The WP Minute

Say thanks and learn more about our podcast sponsor Omnisend. 

In this episode of The WP Minute, Brian Coords and I unpacked Matt Mullenweg's recent interview at TechCrunch Disrupt 2024 with Connie Loizos. 

What struck me most was how this wasn't just another tech conference appearance - it was a deep dive into the ongoing controversy between Automattic and WP Engine. The interview revealed several surprising details, including how Automattic was "kicked out" as an investor in WP Engine in 2018 during the Silver Lake acquisition, and the potential for this legal battle to stretch into 2026-2027.

https://youtu.be/Bq_Gny09JzU

Connie's interviewing style was refreshingly direct, pushing for clarity on issues that many in the WordPress community have been afraid to address. She repeatedly pressed Matt on the 8% revenue request and the criteria for determining when a company has crossed the line with trademark usage. 

While Matt was open about many aspects, some key questions remained unanswered, particularly about the specific threshold that would trigger similar actions against other WordPress-based businesses.

Key Takeaways for WordPress Professionals:

1. Be cautious with WordPress/WP branding in your business name
2. Consider your contribution strategy to the WordPress ecosystem
3. Stay aware of the distinction between wordpress.org and WordPress Foundation
4. Monitor how this might affect plugin repository policies
5. Keep an eye on trademark usage guidelines
6. Consider diversifying your business strategy beyond WordPress-dependent branding

Important URLs Mentioned:

• Matt Mullenweg: The Future of WordPress and the Web
• Connie Loizos
• Brian Coords
• Support WP Minute
• Subscribe to our newsletter

Say thanks and learn more about our podcast sponsor Omnisend. 

In this episode of WP Minute+, I sat down with Laura Elizabeth, founder of Client Portal, a WordPress plugin that helps freelancers and agencies manage client communications and deliverables. Laura's journey from freelance web designer to successful product creator offers valuable insights for WordPress professionals considering a similar transition.

Laura shared how Client Portal emerged from her own needs as a freelancer, frustrated with endless email threads and file sharing. What started as a personal solution gained traction after conference presentations, leading to a successful pre-sale campaign that funded the plugin's initial development. Her approach to building the product - focusing on simplicity and clear use cases - has allowed it to serve diverse industries while maintaining a coherent vision.

We discussed the challenges of transitioning from services to products, including the technical hurdles of building a WordPress plugin as a non-developer. Laura's story of finding and maintaining a long-term relationship with a contractor developer highlights the importance of human connection in business relationships. Her experience with the evolving WordPress block editor also provides insight into the challenges plugin developers face keeping pace with core changes.

Key takeaways for WordPress professionals:

1. Successful products often emerge from solving your own problems
2. Pre-sales can validate ideas and fund initial development
3. Focus and simplicity can be more valuable than feature complexity
4. Human relationships matter in building successful partnerships
5. Maintaining product quality often means saying no to feature requests
6. Block editor integration requires significant ongoing development effort
7. Clear product boundaries help manage diverse user requirements

Important URLs mentioned:

1. client-portal.io
2. Twitter: @lauraelizdunn
3. WP Minute Newsletter

Chapters:
00:00 Introduction and Warm Welcome
00:52 Meet Laura: Founder of Client Portal
01:38 Transition from Services to Products
02:00 Current Market Landscape
03:38 The Power and Versatility of WordPress
06:52 Journey into Product Development
10:28 Courses and Client Work
13:13 Professional Services and Competition
15:31 Understanding Client Portal's Unique Position
17:04 Balancing Feature Requests Across Industries
19:00 From Concept to Development
22:46 The Role of AI and Future Integrations
26:33 Challenges in WordPress Development
29:33 Client Portal's Key Benefits for Freelancers
31:09 Technical Integrations and Flexibility
32:33 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Say thanks and learn more about our podcast sponsor Omnisend. 

In this episode of WP Minute+, I sat down with John O'Nolan, founder and CEO of Ghost, to discuss the open-source publishing platform and how it compares to WordPress in light of recent controversies. John's unique perspective as a former WordPress core team member and now leader of a competing platform provided fascinating insights into the challenges and opportunities in the open-source CMS space.

Our conversation covered a wide range of topics, from Ghost's opinionated approach to feature development to the structure of its non-profit foundation. I was particularly struck by John's commitment to keeping Ghost focused and relatively small, with a goal of never growing beyond 50 employees. This intentional constraint, he argues, fosters creativity and helps maintain the team's agility and sense of purpose.

Throughout our discussion, I was impressed by John's thoughtful approach to balancing commercial success with open-source ideals. His insights on the need for clear incentives in community contributions and the potential for paid open-source development challenged some long-held assumptions in the WordPress world. As someone who has used both platforms, I found myself reconsidering some of my own views on the future of content management systems and open-source sustainability.

Key takeaways for WordPress professionals:

1. Ghost's non-profit structure offers an alternative model for open-source sustainability.
2. Intentional constraints on company size can drive innovation and focus.
3. The "benevolent dictator for life" model may be outdated for large open-source projects.
4. Clear incentives and recognition are crucial for encouraging community contributions.
5. Open-source projects may need to consider paid contributions to remain competitive.
6. Diversity in platforms and approaches benefits the entire web ecosystem.
7. There's value in exploring and learning from different content management systems.

Important URLs mentioned:

1. ghost.org
2. thewpminute.com/subscribe
3. thepodcastsetup.com

Chapter titles with timestamps:

1. [00:00:00] Introduction and Ghost's approach to features
2. [00:05:00] Ghost's development stack and community
3. [00:12:00] Non-profit structure and governance
4. [00:21:00] Leadership and decision-making in open-source projects
5. [00:28:00] Sustainability and funding models
6. [00:32:00] Defining contributions in open-source ecosystems
7. [00:36:00] Comparing Ghost and WordPress experiences

Say thanks and learn more about our podcast sponsor Omnisend. 

In this episode of WP Minute+, I sat down with Jono Alderson, an independent technical SEO consultant and former Yoast team member. We dove into the evolving world of SEO, the challenges facing WordPress marketing, and the recent controversies surrounding WordPress.org and WordPress.com.

Jono's insights on SEO were enlightening. He emphasized that modern SEO is about overall website quality, encompassing user experience, technical integrity, performance, security, and accessibility. 

This holistic approach contrasts with outdated notions of keyword stuffing or churning out content for content's sake. We discussed the shift towards building brand reputation and recall, especially in the face of AI-powered search results that are changing how people discover information.

Our conversation took a deep dive into the state of WordPress marketing and community involvement. Jono highlighted the critical lack of resources, strategy, and leadership in marketing WordPress effectively. We explored the challenges of volunteer-led initiatives and the absence of a clear product direction. This led to a sobering discussion about the burnout and exodus of contributors from the WordPress ecosystem, which Jono sees as one of the most significant threats to the project's future.

The recent controversies surrounding WordPress.com's mirroring of the .org plugin repository and Matt Mullenweg's comments about WordPress.org ownership were central to our discussion. 

Jono provided valuable context on how these moves could impact plugin developers and the broader WordPress ecosystem. We speculated on the potential fragmentation of WordPress through various marketplaces and the implications for user choice and website portability.

His insights into the technical superiority of WordPress over competitors, despite marketing challenges, were particularly interesting. It left me pondering how the community might address these issues and chart a path forward in this new, more complex WordPress landscape.

Key takeaways for WordPress professionals:

• Modern SEO focuses on overall website quality, not just keywords or content volume.
• WordPress faces significant challenges in marketing and community involvement, with a noticeable exodus of contributors.
• The relationship between WordPress.org and WordPress.com is becoming increasingly complex and potentially problematic for the ecosystem.
• WordPress still maintains a technical edge over competitors, but struggles to communicate this advantage effectively.
• The potential fragmentation of WordPress through various marketplaces could threaten the platform's valued portability.
• There's a critical need for clear leadership and strategy in WordPress development and marketing.
• AI-powered search is changing SEO strategies, emphasizing the importance of brand building over traditional ranking factors.

Important URLs mentioned:

jonoalderson.com

wordpress.org

wordpress.com

thewpminute.com/support

Chapter titles with timestamps:

[00:00:00] Introduction and SEO in 2024

[00:09:00] WordPress marketing challenges and community burnout

[00:24:00] The WordPress.com plugin repository controversy

[00:31:00] Potential fragmentation of WordPress through marketplaces

[00:35:00] WordPress vs competitors in the SEO landscape

[00:37:00] Favorite SEO plugins and tools for WordPress

[00:39:00] Closing thoughts and Jono's latest blog post