On this episode of The WP Minute’s Agency Action podcast, Toby Cryns and Kurt Von Ahnen explore what responsibility agency owners have beyond generating revenue. The guys cover contributing to the WordPress community (meetups, WordCamps, Five for the Future-style contributions), investing in local neighborhoods, mentoring the next generation, and even addressing ageism in tech. The core idea: if you’ve built a business on open-source software, there’s a natural obligation to give back – whether through time, money, mentorship, or simply showing up.

Takeaways:

• Contributing to WordPress and local meetups strengthens both the ecosystem and your agency.
• If you profit from open-source software, consider how you’ll pay it forward.
• Agencies that sell expertise and insight avoid the "race to the bottom."
• Earning trust requires honest feedback and proactive leadership.
• Stability and calm communication build long-term relationships.
• Pitch ideas to clients that drive growth – don’t wait for support tickets.
• Treat contractors and staff with respect, offer growth paths, and communicate intentionally.
• Your behavior influences clients, team members, and the broader community.

Important Links:

• Kurt’s Agency: Mañana No Mas
• Toby’s Agency: The Mighty Mo!
• Follow Kurt & Toby:
  LinkedIn: Kurt | Toby
• Agency Action Podcast: thewpminute.com/subscribe