WebCami Podcast

Posted on WebCamiCafe.com on October 23, 2019

In this episode, I share how managing the small details for your clients can make a huge difference. From plugin updates to SSL certificates, keeping your clients informed and stress-free is all part of the service.

The original post can be found here:

About the author: Cami MacNamara, otherwise known as WebCami, has 21 years of experience running a small, profitable, one-person web design business, so she can walk her dog whenever she likes. She has co-hosted a beginner WordPress Meetup in Seattle since 2018 and has been an active member of the Seattle WordPress community since 2013. Cami has designed nearly 600 websites, provides services to 350 active clients, and manages over 200 websites monthly as a solopreneur.

More WebCami links:

Join my Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/webcamicafe/

Subscribe to my monthly newsletter for web designers: https://webcami.myflodesk.com/webcami-cafe-newsletter

To view my business website, visit: https://webcami.com/

Transcript of Cami's Commentary:

I can hardly believe that this year marks the 9th anniversary of my care plan services. Life before having a care plan was a complete mess. There was a point when I was juggling a whopping 44 projects simultaneously, making it one of the worst months in my career, and I'm not exaggerating. I had 44 new websites to create or redesign, all in the pipeline, and I was at my wit's end.

When I started using managed WP, my clients were amazed by how many plugin updates I handled each month. However, these updates are just one aspect of my comprehensive service. I've mastered playing "whack-a-mole" with various tasks like PHP updates and SSL certificate renewals. Dealing with these little details has become second nature to me.

However, it became apparent that my clients needed to fully grasp the extent of these small tasks I was taking care of on their behalf. Only when I began to communicate and inform them about these efforts did they genuinely appreciate the value of my services.

Now, I don't suggest bombarding your clients with ten emails a day, but sending them a weekly recap can be beneficial, especially when you're handling numerous small tasks for their website that they might need to be made aware of.

Many services are included for clients enrolled in my care plan without additional charges. On the other hand, for clients not in a care plan, I do bill them for these services. I always take the opportunity to remind them that if they were to join a care plan, I would take care of all these essential services as part of that service.

Don't underestimate the value of your work simply because some of the tasks you perform are small. As a service provider, you're always doing some website work that lightens the load for your clients, which is incredibly valuable.

NEW HABITS NEWSLETTER FROM WEBCAMI:

New year, new habits! Starting January 1st, 2024, I'm launching a weekly newsletter for WordPress web designers. Each week, get a fresh habit to supercharge your business, straight to your inbox. Ready to level up? Head to habitswp.com to sign up, and let's make 2024 our most productive year yet! https://habitswp.com/

SUBMIT YOUR BLOG POST FOR NARRATION: https://webcamipodcast.com

Posted on bobwp.com on November 12, 2023

In this episode, Bob Dunn discusses the importance of balancing content creation with community engagement, illustrating how this approach has positively impacted his career and the growth of his platform, Do the Woo.

The original post can be found here: https://bobwp.com/the-perfect-marriage-of-content-and-community/

About the author:

Engaging with WordPress since 2006, Bob Dunn, also known as BobWP, transitioned from a 20-year marketing background to specialize in WordPress, providing website design and extensive training through various mediums. Today, as a passionate podcaster, connector, and community builder, he emphasizes content creation and nurturing community ties, particularly through his initiative, "⁠Do the Woo⁠", a hub for WooCommerce enthusiasts. Bob's commitment to the open-source ecosystem is unwavering. He now lives in Porto with his wife Judy and their cat Chester.

More Bob Dunn links:

Do The Woo Podcast: https://dothewoo.io/woocommerce-podcast/

Tumblr: ⁠https://bobwp.blog/⁠

Oportocast: ⁠https://oportocast.com/⁠

Transcript of Cami's Commentary:

I'm highlighting Bob Dunn's blog post for several reasons as the year wraps up. First, it emphasizes reflecting on past business or community-building actions. Bob's pivotal change in 2020, driven by work burnout, significantly improved his community engagement and WooCommerce outreach. Watching his journey unfold has been a joy, from his first European trip to settling there and attending various WordCamps worldwide.

Reflecting on my year, I've experienced immense personal satisfaction and growth. My Facebook Group, WebCami Cafe is small but thriving, and seeing fellow web designers support each other through connections makes my day. Starting my podcast was a significant step in my healing process after the loss of my parents, providing an outlet to reach out and aid other web designers in navigating their businesses.

With 2024 on the horizon, I'm excited about WordCamp US being held in Portland, Oregon. The convenience of driving or taking Amtrak to Portland means I can enjoy the city and connect with many WordPress comrades close to home. I hope to see my friend Bob there, whose presence is missed in the Pacific Northwest. (A fun fact: my first podcast appearance was in September 2017 at WordCamp Portland, where Bob interviewed me using his new iPhone recording setup).

As we all enjoy the holiday season, I want to remind my fellow web designers to take some time for themselves. If a break isn't possible, at least shut down the office to focus on your business, content, and community. Here's to a promising new year for all of us.

NEW HABITS NEWSLETTER FROM WEBCAMI:

New year, new habits! Starting January 1st, 2024, I'm launching a weekly newsletter for WordPress web designers. Each week, get a fresh habit to supercharge your business, straight to your inbox. Ready to level up? Head to habitswp.com to sign up, and let's make 2024 our most productive year yet! https://habitswp.com/

SUBMIT YOUR BLOG POST FOR NARRATION: https://webcamipodcast.com

More WebCami links:

Join my Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/webcamicafe/

Subscribe to my monthly newsletter for web designers: https://webcami.myflodesk.com/webcami-cafe-newsletter

To view my business website, visit: https://webcami.com/

Posted on sumydesigns.com on December 13, 2023

In this episode, Amy Masson discusses the use and misconceptions of tags and keywords in blog posts. She clarifies that tags in WordPress are meant for organizing content, similar to hashtags on social media, and not for SEO keywords.

The original post can be found here: https://www.sumydesigns.com/blog-tags-keywords/

About the author:

Amy Masson, co-owner and developer at Sumy Designs, has been crafting websites since 2006. With a background in computer education and a love for technology, Amy transitioned from teaching to web design. Alongside her sister and co-founder, Susan Sullivan, she blends her self-taught design skills with educational expertise to run an amazing web design agency for her happy clients.

Also a co-host of the Women in WP Podcast, Amy resides in Indiana and balances her professional achievements with personal passions, including reading, authoring cocktail recipe books, and marathon running.

More Amy Masson links:

Sumy Designs: https://www.sumydesigns.com/

Women in WP: https://womeninwp.com/

WordPress.tv: https://wordpress.tv/speakers/amy-masson/

Transcript of Cami's Commentary:

Amy Masson's expertise in WordPress inspires me to do better. Her approach, rooted in her educational background, effectively educates clients through her blog posts. This specific post on tags and categories reminds me to regularly audit my clients' content, especially those on my care plan. Often, clients, unaware of SEO nuances, may inadvertently harm their site's performance by misusing tags, making their site hard to search and navigate or they will delete content without proper redirects.

I love how Amy explains the basics of tagging in a way that the most non-techy clients can understand.

Amy's clear, no-nonsense explanation on this topic provides an excellent framework for discussing tag management with your clients. Her abundant content output, beneficial to both her clients and her own SEO, sets a high bar that I aspire to reach in 2024. Check out Amy's website, Sumy Designs, for an impressive display of professional web design expertise. Be like Amy.

NEW HABITS NEWSLETTER FROM WEBCAMI:

New year, new habits! Starting January 1st, 2024, I'm launching a weekly newsletter for WordPress web designers. Each week, get a fresh habit to supercharge your business, straight to your inbox. Ready to level up? Head to habitswp.com to sign up, and let's make 2024 our most productive year yet! https://habitswp.com/

SUBMIT YOUR BLOG POST FOR NARRATION: https://webcamipodcast.com

More WebCami links:

Join my Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/webcamicafe/

Subscribe to my monthly newsletter for web designers: https://webcami.myflodesk.com/webcami-cafe-newsletter

To view my business website, visit: https://webcami.com/

Posted on webcamicafe.com on December 10th, 2023

Transcript of Cami's Commentary:

I've got a little confession to make. Since my husband and I went to that theater last weekend to watch "Monty Python and the Holy Grail," the sound of Patsy's coconuts and the film's theme music has been echoing in my head. I wish I could play on this podcast!

Just after Thanksgiving, I decided to adopt a new habit or refine an old one every week in my business starting in January. You might find today's episode a bit silly, but beneath the humor lies a profound truth. It feels like a killer rabbit is lurking behind every workweek! That's why I make it a point to start each day with a quest to stick to my plan. Habits are the best tool to stick to my schedule, even when unexpected hurdles arise.

In the words of Arthur, King of the Britons, ‘You have proved yourself worthy. Will you join me?’ In the show notes, you'll find a link to sign up for my brand-new weekly habits newsletter that starts on January 1st. I can't wait to go on this quest with you! (Cue coconuts)

NEW HABITS NEWSLETTER FROM WEBCAMI:

New year, new habits! Starting January 1st, 2024, I'm launching a weekly newsletter for WordPress web designers. Each week, get a fresh habit to supercharge your business, straight to your inbox. Ready to level up? Head to habitswp.com to sign up, and let's make 2024 our most productive year yet!

SUBMIT YOUR BLOG POST FOR NARRATION: https://webcamipodcast.com

More WebCami links:

Join my Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/webcamicafe/

Subscribe to my monthly newsletter for web designers: https://webcami.myflodesk.com/webcami-cafe-newsletter

To view my business website, visit: https://webcami.com/

Posted on theistudio.com on March 22, 2023

In the latest episode, web designer and business mentor Judith Kallos shares the pitfalls business owners face with DIY web designing. She tackles the common misapprehensions businesses hold about website creation and offers crucial insights for managing the expectations of prospective clients.

About the author: Judith Kallos is an experienced and humorous WordPress consultant and business coach, with a career in online endeavors dating back to 1995. She pioneered the first "Internet Studio" near the Illinois-Wisconsin border, and now lives a simpler life in Mississippi. Judith runs The I Studio, a support and consulting service for WordPress websites. Her work includes managing her websites, contributing to GoDaddy's blog, and assisting entrepreneurs with WordPress and online strategies and she's authored several eBooks on business etiquette. Known for her "White Glove Support," Judith offers personalized guidance and encouragement to her clients, helping them harness technology effectively.

More Judith Kallos’ links:

https://www.theistudio.com/

https://www.theistudio.com/wordpress-consultant/books/

https://www.godaddy.com/resources/author/judithkallos

Transcript of Cami's Commentary:

Judith masterfully addresses a common challenge in web design: clients' unrealistic expectations. This resonates with my experience, where clients often express surprise at the costs and efforts involved in creating a successful website. For instance, I recall building a one-page website for a local business owner who was later disappointed by its low Google ranking despite my initial advice about its limitations.

Judith's post underscores the frequent misconceptions business owners have about web development. Many expect instant results without appreciating the nuances of SEO, user experience, or the need for substantial, engaging content. Her insights reveal that success in the digital space demands clarity, focused design, and ongoing content development. These factors are crucial in differentiating a business and attracting the right audience.

For my fellow web designers, this reminds me of our valuable role in guiding clients through this complex landscape. Our expertise is not just in building websites but also in educating clients about the digital ecosystem. As Judith advises, we should communicate the importance of a well-thought-out strategy, including design, content, and SEO, and charge accordingly for our comprehensive services.

Let's take inspiration from Judith's approach. By setting realistic expectations and providing holistic solutions, we can create websites that meet and exceed our clients' aspirations. Remember, in web design, our knowledge is as crucial as the websites we build.

NEW HABITS NEWSLETTER FROM WEBCAMI:

New year, new habits! Starting January 1st, 2024, I'm launching a weekly newsletter for WordPress web designers. Each week, get a fresh habit to supercharge your business, straight to your inbox. Ready to level up? Head to habitswp.com to sign up, and let's make 2024 our most productive year yet!

SUBMIT YOUR BLOG POST FOR NARRATION: https://webcamipodcast.com

More WebCami links:

Join my Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/webcamicafe/

Subscribe to my monthly newsletter for web designers: https://webcami.myflodesk.com/webcami-cafe-newsletter

To view my business website, visit: https://webcami.com/

Posted on TaraClaeys.com on October 31st, 2022

In this episode, I share Tara Claeys insights on building productive habits and avoiding procrastination. Tara shares practical tips, like planning and prioritizing tasks in your daily work.

About the author: Tara Claeys, founder of Design TLC, is a talented website designer and agency owner specializing in creating customized solutions for nonprofits and educational institutions. With over 25 years in the field, Tara and her team excel in developing user-friendly websites with WordPress and graphic designs to help organizations focus on their core missions. A recognized leader in her community, Tara has received the “Best Technology Business Award” from the Arlington Chamber of Commerce and is actively involved in mentoring and volunteering.

Tara currently cohosts the Mindful School Marketing Podcast and is a founding host of Hallway Chats Podcast; in her free time, she enjoys outdoor activities and spending time with loved ones.

Design TLC: https://designtlc.com/

Mindful School Marketing Podcast: https://mindfulschoolmarketing.com/

Transcript of Cami's Commentary:

I always find great value in reading other web designers blog posts; Tara Claeys' work is no exception. She's a colleague in the field and a dear friend. Our businesses may operate in different niches, but we often find common ground in the challenges we face and the solutions we discover. As I was reading this, it struck me how closely our approaches align. Tara's insights into building productive habits and managing time effectively are incredibly relatable.

Most business owners grapple with similar issues around time management and staying productive. Tara's tips are not just practical but also deeply resonant. The guilt associated with productivity, or the lack thereof, is too common for me. Tara rightly points out that feeling like we need to be productive every moment is a trap. It's essential to plan for downtime and allow those necessary breaks that, ironically, make us more effective in the long run.

Tara's impact extends beyond her blog. She's a formidable presence in the WordPress community known for podcasts like 'Hallway Chats' and various Podcast collaborations. Her journey and accomplishments are nothing short of inspirational. Her contributions to the WordPress community and insightful advice make her a role model for web designers everywhere. I highly recommend following Tara on social media and tuning into her podcast episodes. Her advice is always spot-on, guiding you toward success in your business endeavors.

NEW HABITS NEWSLETTER FROM WEBCAMI:

SUBMIT YOUR BLOG POST FOR NARRATION: https://webcamipodcast.com

More WebCami links:

Join my Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/webcamicafe/

Subscribe to my newsletter for web designers: https://webcami.myflodesk.com/webcami-cafe-newsletter

To view my business website, visit: https://webcami.com/

Posted on WebCami.com on March 17, 2020

In this episode, I'm sharing a special blog post that holds a dear place in my heart — it's about the times I used to prepare batch freezer meals for my parents.

The original post can be found here: https://webcami.com/webcamis-ultimate-guide-for-batch-cooking-freezer-meals/

About the author: Cami MacNamara, otherwise known as WebCami, has 21 years of experience running a small, profitable, one-person web design business, so she can walk her dog whenever she likes. She has co-hosted a beginner WordPress Meetup in Seattle since 2018 and has been an active member of the Seattle WordPress community since 2013. Cami has designed nearly 600 websites, provides services to 350 active clients, and manages over 200 websites monthly as a solopreneur.

More WebCami links:

Join my Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/webcamicafe/

Subscribe to my newsletter for web designers: https://webcami.myflodesk.com/webcami-cafe-newsletter

To view my business website, visit: https://webcami.com/

Transcript of Cami's Commentary:

As we gather to celebrate Thanksgiving, my thoughts are on my beloved parents, whom I dearly miss. Whenever I have a big day in the kitchen, I reflect on how I used to batch cooked freezer meals for them. I would dedicate three full days to cooking during my visits, ensuring their freezer was stocked with about a hundred individual meals. This not only helped my dad, who had taken on the role of the family chef, but also brought me a sense of contributing to their well-being.

Though my parents are no longer with us, the batch cooking skills I honed during that time are still a significant part of my life. I now use these techniques to prepare meals over the weekend, providing ready-to-eat food for my husband and me during our busy weekdays. This practice is a lifesaver, sparing us from the task of cooking meals after long workdays.

I want to share this approach with you, especially if you know someone who could use help with meal preparation. Batch cooking and freezing meals is an excellent way to assist them. And let's not forget about self-care during our own busy times. Planning and preparing meals ahead during the weekend can be incredibly beneficial.

Once again, a very Happy Thanksgiving to all. I am truly grateful for your presence in this community and appreciate your continued support. Let's remember to cherish and care for our loved ones in need, and equally, to take care of ourselves.

SUBMIT YOUR BLOG POST FOR NARRATION: https://webcamipodcast.com

Posted on KerriMarvelServices.com on March 7th 2023.

In this episode, Kerri Marvel shares the telltale signs that your website needs an overhaul. This is a great example of education every web designer should offer on their own blog.

The original post can be found here: https://www.kerrimarvelservices.com/10-signs-may-need-new-refreshed-website/

About the author:

More Kerri Marvel links:

Kerri Marvel Services: https://www.kerrimarvelservices.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kerriwintersmarvel/

Legal Shield: https://kdmarvel.wearelegalshield.com/

Transcript of Cami's Commentary:

Today I'm excited to discuss Kerri Marvel's insightful blog post. Kerri and I have shared a long-standing friendship since the 90s and I've used her virtual assistant services. She's a dear friend and confidant. I've enjoyed watching her grow her business.

Kerri's post exemplifies what web designers should aim for in their blogs. Educating clients and demystifying web design. Many clients misunderstand the ongoing needs of a website, unaware of the drawbacks of outdated, slow or poorly maintained sites.  

Blogging is a critical tool in this education process. I recommend starting with one post monthly, focusing on questions frequently asked by your clients. This not only informs but also builds trust, positioning you as a reliable expert. Remember, web designers often overlook their own sites, particularly blogging. Don't fall into this trap! Use your blog to fully engage and inform your audience.

Furthermore, Kerri’s post underscores the importance of content relevance and staying informed about industry trends. By keeping content fresh and relevant, you can effectively address the evolving needs of your audience.  This practice not only enhances client knowledge but also showcases your expertise in the field. In addition, engaging with your readers through comments or social media can foster a sense of community and further solidify your position as a knowledgeable and approachable industry leader.

Remember, a well-maintained blog is an asset reflecting your commitment to quality and professionalism in web design.

SUBMIT YOUR BLOG POST FOR NARRATION: https://webcamipodcast.com

More WebCami links:

Join my Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/webcamicafe/

Subscribe to my newsletter for web designers: https://webcami.myflodesk.com/webcami-cafe-newsletter

To view my business website, visit: https://webcami.com/

Posted on WebCamiCafe.com on October 31, 2022

In this episode, I share my strategies for staying productive in times of exhaustion.

About the author: Cami MacNamara, otherwise known as WebCami, has 21 years of experience running a small, profitable, one-person web design business, so she can walk her dog whenever she likes. She has co-hosted a beginner WordPress Meetup in Seattle since 2018 and has been an active member of the Seattle WordPress community since 2013. Cami has designed nearly 600 websites, provides services to 350 active clients, and manages over 200 websites monthly as a solopreneur.

The original post can be found here: https://webcamicafe.com/getting-work-done-when-youre-tired/

Transcript of Cami's Commentary:

Last year, amid frequent travels to see my father in hospice, I wrote a blog post while grappling with exhaustion and the sorrow of impending loss. It echoed a familiar grief from 2021 as my mother neared the end of her life. This fall, the fatigue persists. I've felt overwhelmed by juggling end-of-year projects, recovering from COVID-19 in September, and traveling twice in October.

Despite this, the strategies I shared in that blog post remain effective. I listed all my stressors yesterday and tackled a few, making tangible progress. This small step helps to break the paralysis of an endless to-do list.

The key is to remember you're in control. Recognize that your clients may feel overwhelmed, possibly leading to their urgency. Keep them informed—not with finished tasks, but with progress. It buys time and understanding.

Business has its cycles of pressure, but it's crucial to remind ourselves that these phases are temporary. There is always light at the end of the tunnel.

Join my Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/webcamicafe/

To view my business website, visit: https://webcami.com/

SUBMIT YOUR BLOG POST FOR NARRATION: https://webcamipodcast.com

Subscribe to my newsletter: https://webcami.myflodesk.com/webcami-cafe-newsletter

Posted on JoyofWP.com on August 20th, 2023

In this episode, Bud Kraus dives into the WordPress community's success factors, focusing on open-source collaboration, active community engagement, and a culture of contributions and feedback.

About the Author: Bud Kraus is a highly experienced web design and WordPress instructor who has been teaching since 1998. He has guided students from over 80 countries online and in person, including at institutions like Pratt Institute and the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York City. Bud's dedication to teaching best practices in web design and WordPress is evident in his work. He's been a member of Meetups in NYC and NJ and he's been speaking at WordCamps since 2017. Bud's commitment to empowering individuals with web design and WordPress skills continues to impact a global community of enthusiasts.

While strolling through the sponsor area at WordCamp US 2023 in DC, an intriguing series of events unfolded. I found myself repeatedly hearing, "Bud's looking for you," from various friends manning booths. Initially unfamiliar with Bud, my curiosity grew. Eventually, just before lunch, I finally met Bud, and we instantly clicked, becoming fast friends. It turned out we had numerous mutual acquaintances, and he was working on a special project for my friend Bob. Bud joined our group for lunch, and our conversation was nothing short of delightful; it felt like we had known each other forever.

When Bud speaks about the absence of egos in the WordPress community, I believe he's describing himself. He's undoubtedly one of the kindest individuals I've encountered at a WordCamp, and I thoroughly enjoyed our discussion.

After learning about Bud's extensive background in teaching wordpress and web design, I was thrilled when he submitted a blog post for my podcast. The WordPress community is uniquely special due to its unwavering commitment to collaboration, openness, and inclusivity. Whether through WordCamps, meetups, or online forums, members freely exchange knowledge, ideas, and resources, providing an environment of continuous learning and growth.

The WordPress community can always use more people like Bud. I'm grateful he sought me out that day at WordCamp US, and I eagerly anticipate sharing another lunch with him at a future WordCamp.

Join my Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/webcamicafe/

To view my business website, visit: https://webcami.com/

SUBMIT YOUR BLOG POST FOR NARRATION: https://webcamipodcast.com
NEW! Subscribe to my newsletter: https://webcami.myflodesk.com/webcami-cafe-newsletter