The WP Minute+

Thanks Pressable for supporting the show! Get your special hosting deal at https://pressable.com/wpminuteBecome a WP Minute Supporter & Slack member at https://thewpminute.com/supportOn this episode of The WP Minute+ podcast, Matt Medeiros welcomes LaunchBay co-founder Sam Chlebowski. They discuss the evolution of agency models, the importance of finding a niche, and how LaunchBay serves as a client onboarding automation platform. They also explore the challenges agencies face in a competitive market, the significance of standardization versus productization, and the role of effective onboarding in agency success. Sam shares insights on the importance of community and expertise, as well as the need for visibility in project management. You’ll also find a live demo of LaunchBay’s features. Takeaways:Finding a niche is crucial for agency success.Standardization can drive profitability without sacrificing quality.Onboarding processes are key to client satisfaction.Community and expertise are essential in a competitive market.Automation can streamline tasks like invoicing and feedback.Visibility in projects helps prevent client complaints.Agencies should focus on their unique strengths.LaunchBay offers solutions for effective client onboarding.Important Links:LaunchBay’s website (includes a special offer for fans of The WP Minute) Connect with Sam: LinkedInThe WP Minute+ Podcast: thewpminute.com/subscribe ★ Support this podcast ★

Thanks Pressable for supporting the show! Get your special hosting deal at https://pressable.com/wpminuteBecome a WP Minute Supporter & Slack member at https://thewpminute.com/supportOn this episode of The WP Minute+ podcast, Eric Karkovack is joined by Isotta Peira, head of the WordPress Credits Program, an initiative aimed at connecting students with the open-source community. Isotta shares how the program was developed to provide students with practical WordPress skills while contributing to the community. The episode also provides an in-depth look at onboarding students, assigning mentors, and providing a comprehensive learning experience that culminates in a certificate of completion. The program is designed to be inclusive, welcoming students from various academic backgrounds, and aims to foster a sense of community and collaboration among participants. There’s also a look into the future of the program, its expansion goals, and the potential impact on students’ careers and contributions to the open-source world.Takeaways:The Campus Connect initiative is bringing WordPress education to universities worldwide.The WordPress Credits program partners with institutions to add a WordPress curriculum.Mentorship is a key part of helping students succeed.Empowering teachers will help keep the educational initiative going strong.The education initiatives aim to reach students interested in WordPress, regardless of their major.Students build personal websites and learn about open-source contributions.Students are encouraged to continue as members of the WordPress community and become mentors.Important Links:WordPress EducationWordPress Credits ProgramThe WP Minute+ Podcast: thewpminute.com/subscribe ★ Support this podcast ★

Thanks Pressable for supporting the show! Get your special hosting deal at https://pressable.com/wpminuteBecome a WP Minute Supporter & Slack member at https://thewpminute.com/supportOn this episode of The WP Minute+ podcast, Matt is joined by Gabriella Laster, Director of Product Marketing at Elementor. Gabriella shares her journey into the WordPress ecosystem and discusses the launch of Elementor One. The discussion covers the importance of user feedback, the challenges of product development, and the integration of AI into Elementor’s offerings. She also offers insight on the need for clear communication with users and the balance between technical features and user experience. The conversation also touches on the philosophical implications of AI in WordPress and how it can empower users to create customized websites. Takeaways:Gabriella joined Elementor in 2021, driven by passion for the product.Understanding user personas is an ongoing learning process.Balancing user feedback with technical constraints is challenging.Elementor One consolidates multiple features into a single package.The credit system in Elementor One offers flexibility for users.Educating users on technical aspects is essential for their success.AI integration is a significant focus for Elementor’s future.Important Links:Elementor OneIntroducing Elementor One: one experience to power it allThe WP Minute+ Podcast: thewpminute.com/subscribe ★ Support this podcast ★

Thanks Pressable for supporting the show! Get your special hosting deal at https://pressable.com/wpminuteBecome a WP Minute Supporter & Slack member at https://thewpminute.com/supportOn this episode of The WP Minute+ podcast, Eric is joined by Rachel Berry, Head of Client Services at Filter. Rachel fills us in on the role of WordPress as an enterprise solution. The discussion also looks at the importance of client relationships, the benefits of WordPress in the enterprise space, and the challenges of changing perceptions about the platform. Rachel shares insights on leveraging AI in client services and offers advice for agencies working in the enterprise market. Takeaways:Filter is a digital-first agency focusing on UX, UI design, and WordPress development.Rachel’s role bridges the gap between client needs and solution delivery.AI is transforming client servicing by simplifying communication and project management.WordPress offers flexibility and cost-effectiveness for enterprise clients compared to proprietary solutions.Changing perceptions about WordPress is crucial for its adoption in enterprise environments.Clients often prioritize outcomes over technical features in their solutions.Building strong client relationships is essential for long-term success.Effective communication and trust are key to client retention.Agencies should focus on understanding client pain points holistically.The future of AI in client services is promising but requires careful implementation.Important Links:Filter’s websiteConnect with Filter: LinkedIn | YouTubeFilter AI PluginThe WP Minute+ Podcast: thewpminute.com/subscribe ★ Support this podcast ★

Thanks Pressable for supporting the show! Get your special hosting deal at https://pressable.com/wpminuteBecome a WP Minute Supporter & Slack member at https://thewpminute.com/supportOn this episode of The WP Minute+ podcast, Eric Karkovack interviews Jason Adams, a contributor to the WordPress AI Team. They discuss the mission of the AI Team, the various AI initiatives at Automattic, and how the technology is being integrated into WordPress. Jason explains the building blocks for AI in plugins, the role of plugin developers, and the future of AI in web hosting. They also touch on the roadmap for WordPress 7.0 and the importance of creativity within the WordPress ecosystem. Takeaways:The WordPress AI Team aims to make AI accessible to users without deep technical knowledge.The Abilities API is a foundational piece for integrating AI into WordPress.The MCP adapter allows communication between AI models and WordPress applications.Plugin developers can use the WPAI client to integrate AI features into WordPress.Web hosts should simplify AI setup for users to enhance WordPress functionality.The goal is to empower the entire WordPress ecosystem with AI capabilities.WordPress 7.0 will include “under-the-hood” AI features for developers to leverage.Creativity in the WordPress ecosystem is essential for leveraging AI effectively.AI should be a choice for users, not a forced integration.Important Links:Announcing the Formation of the WordPress AI TeamAI Building Blocks for WordPressAI for WordPress HostsWordPress AI TeamConnect with Jason: LinkedInJason’s WebsiteThe WP Minute+ Podcast: thewpminute.com/subscribe ★ Support this podcast ★

Thanks Pressable for supporting the show! Get your special hosting deal at https://pressable.com/wpminuteBecome a WP Minute Supporter & Slack member at https://thewpminute.com/supportOn this episode of The WP Minute+ podcast, Matt Medeiros welcomes Kevin MacGillivray, the Chief Marketing Officer at Pressable. Kevin discusses his transition from Shopify to the WordPress ecosystem, the challenges of marketing in a flexible environment, and the impact of AI on marketing strategies. They also explore how Pressable positions itself within the Automattic ecosystem, the importance of agency partnerships, and the company’s plans for community building and knowledge sharing in 2026. Takeaways:Marketing in WordPress requires specificity to connect with users.AI is changing how marketers operate and interact with products.Trust is built through human connection, not automation.Pressable aims to provide a seamless experience for agency partners.Community building is essential for knowledge sharing and growth.Differentiation in product marketing is key to success.Pressable is focused on co-marketing and storytelling with agencies.The company is expanding its presence at industry events.Important Links:PressableConnect with Kevin: LinkedInThe WP Minute+ Podcast: thewpminute.com/subscribe ★ Support this podcast ★

Thanks Pressable for supporting the show! Get your special hosting deal at https://pressable.com/wpminuteBecome a WP Minute Supporter & Slack member at https://thewpminute.com/supportOn this episode of The WP Minute+ podcast, Matt Medeiros and The WP Weekly’s Davinder Singh Kainth discuss the challenges and opportunities in plugin development, the importance of sponsorships, and insights from the annual WP Awards. They also explore the dynamics of plugin marketing, the significance of community engagement, and the future of WordPress, particularly in relation to AI advancements. Takeaways:Davinder encouraged Matt to start the first iteration of The WP Minute.Rebranding can be essential for clarity and marketability.Sponsorships are vital for sustaining WordPress projects.Marketing is crucial for plugin developers, not just development.AI is influencing plugin development positively.The WP Awards have evolved to ensure fair voting.Categories in awards can be contentious and require careful management.Community engagement is key to successful nominations.Transparency in voting is crucial for integrity.WordCamp events continue to grow internationally, even as they shrink in the US.We’ll see more AI integrations in WordPress.Important Links:The WP WeeklyThe WP Awards 2025Plugins DailyConnect with Davinder: LinkedIn | Twitter/XThe WP Minute+ Podcast: thewpminute.com/subscribe ★ Support this podcast ★

Thanks Pressable for supporting the show! Get your special hosting deal at https://pressable.com/wpminuteBecome a WP Minute Supporter & Slack member at https://thewpminute.com/supportOn this episode of The WP Minute+ podcast, Matt Medeiros and Remkus de Vries discuss the WordPress ecosystem, including the recent State of the Word address, the roadmap to better site performance, AI integrations, and the challenges faced by their respective businesses. They also examine community engagement, the secrets behind their WordPress-related courses, and the need for collaboration. Remkus shares insights into his business, Scanfully, and the evolution of his courses, which aim to enhance WordPress performance and understanding. The discussion also explores the role education plays in building a healthy community. Takeaways:AI is becoming an integral part of WordPress development.Performance improvements in WordPress have been significant over recent versions.The integration of AI in WordPress needs careful consideration and guardrails.Scanfully is evolving to address content health and performance monitoring.Courses are being developed to fill gaps in WordPress education.Community engagement is crucial for the growth of WordPress.There is a need for a better understanding of the WordPress ecosystem among newcomers.Collaboration within the WordPress community can lead to better outcomes.Content creators should prioritize value over views in their work.Important Links:ScanfullyWithin WordPressConnect with Remkus: LinkedIn | Twitter/XThe WP Minute+ Podcast: thewpminute.com/subscribe ★ Support this podcast ★

Thanks Pressable for supporting the show! Get your special hosting deal at https://pressable.com/wpminuteBecome a WP Minute Supporter & Slack member at https://thewpminute.com/supportOn this episode of The WP Minute+ podcast, Eric Karkovack interviews Steve Burge, founder of Ramble Ventures. Steve shares his journey in open source and looks at the evolution of WordPress. They also explore the challenges and opportunities in the publishing space within WordPress, the integration of AI in development and customer support, and the future direction of PublishPress as a brand. The discussion highlights the significance of collaboration tools and the ongoing development of WordPress features, particularly in relation to the Gutenberg editor.  ★ Support this podcast ★

Thanks Pressable for supporting the show! Get your special hosting deal at https://pressable.com/wpminuteBecome a WP Minute Supporter & Slack member at https://thewpminute.com/supportIn this episode of The WP Minute+ podcast, Eric Karkovack chats with Ian Svoboda, a senior software engineer and web developer specializing in WordPress. Ian shares his journey from being a novice in coding to a proficient developer. He discusses the evolution of WordPress development, the importance of learning from mistakes, and the role of AI in enhancing productivity. He also explores innovative business models for freelancers, emphasizing the value of providing business solutions over hourly billing. Ian also shares his aspirations for the future and his commitment to delivering quality work. Takeaways:Ian started his career in web development with no coding experience.He learned coding to understand the products he was selling.Ian aims to create a theme development course that reflects real-world scenarios.Sharing knowledge and experiences helps others avoid common mistakes.AI can assist in development but requires a solid understanding of the subject.Freelancers can benefit from subscription models over hourly billing.Providing business value is more important than tracking hours worked.A smaller, focused client list allows for better service and attention.Ian emphasizes the importance of client communication and expectations.Continuous learning and adaptation are key in the tech industry.Important Links:Ian Svoboda’s WebsiteLearn WP Theme DevConnect with Ian: LinkedIn | Twitter/XThe WP Minute+ Podcast: thewpminute.com/subscribe ★ Support this podcast ★

Thanks Pressable for supporting the show! Get your special hosting deal at https://pressable.com/wpminuteBecome a WP Minute Supporter & Slack member at https://thewpminute.com/supportOn this episode of The WP Minute+ podcast, Eric Karkovack is joined by Steve Deckert from WooCommerce about the new integration with Reddit. They discuss the importance of social media for merchants, the benefits of advertising on Reddit, and the ease of setting up the integration. Steve touts the value of reaching new customers through Reddit and AI’s potential to spur growth in advertising. The conversation also touches on future developments and the importance of user feedback in shaping the product. Takeaways:Social media platforms are crucial for discovery and purchasing.Reddit users are often not on other platforms.The WooCommerce Reddit integration is the result of a partnership between the platforms.Advertising on Reddit can reach new customer pools.Reddit is a trusted source for product recommendations.AI can optimize ad campaigns effectively.User feedback is essential for future improvements.WooCommerce has multiple advertising partnerships to explore.Important Links:Reddit for WooCommerceReddit for WooCommerce: Bringing high-intent shoppers to your storeConnect with Steve: LinkedIn | Twitter/XThe WP Minute+ Podcast: thewpminute.com/subscribe ★ Support this podcast ★

Thanks Pressable for supporting the show! Get your special hosting deal at https://pressable.com/wpminuteBecome a WP Minute Supporter & Slack member at https://thewpminute.com/supportOn this episode of The WP Minute+ podcast, Matt is joined by Miriam Schwab, Head of WordPress at Elementor. They discuss the recent State of the Word event, the impact of AI on WordPress and web development, and the emerging trend of vibe coding. They also explore the opportunities and challenges presented by AI, the importance of accessibility in web design, and the future of Elementor’s products. Miriam emphasizes the importance of innovation and adaptability in the rapidly evolving tech landscape. Takeaways:The State of the Word event inspired discussions about the future of WordPress.AI presents both opportunities and challenges for the web development community.Elementor is committed to integrating AI into its products for enhanced user experience.Vibe coding democratizes web development, allowing non-developers to create applications.Accessibility is a key focus for Elementor’s tools and products.Guardrails are essential for ensuring safe AI interactions in web development.The future of AI in WordPress is promising, with potential for significant advancements.Community feedback is crucial for improving AI tools and products.Important Links:Visit Elementor’s WebsiteConnect with Miriam: LinkedInThe WP Minute+ Podcast: thewpminute.com/subscribe ★ Support this podcast ★

Thanks Pressable for supporting the show! Get your special hosting deal at https://pressable.com/wpminuteBecome a WP Minute Supporter & Slack member at https://thewpminute.com/supportOn this episode of The WP Minute+ podcast, Matt Medeiros hosts a panel discussion of WordPress predictions for 2026. Panelists Raquel Manriquez, Kurt Von Ahnen, and Eric Karkovack cover topics such as the restructuring of WordCamps, the rise of plugin suites, the impact of AI in hosting, and the future of community events. They also examine the implications of ongoing legal battles and share rapid-fire predictions, highlighting the evolving landscape of WordPress and its community. Takeaways:A restructuring of WordCamps might take hold in 2026.The community is seeing a push for more alternative WordPress events.AI will play a significant role in differentiating hosting companies.The rise of plugin suites may lead to agency dynamics changing.Legal battles may impact the direction of WordPress and its branding.The importance of community and user experience in WordPress is emphasized.AI could lead to a major shift in how users interact with WordPress.The panel expresses mixed feelings about the future of Facebook and OpenAI.The need for a cohesive community approach to WordPress is highlighted.Important Links:Connect with our panelists on LinkedIn:Matt | Raquel | Kurt | EricThe WP Minute+ Podcast: thewpminute.com/subscribe ★ Support this podcast ★

Thanks Pressable for supporting the show! Get your special hosting deal at https://pressable.com/wpminuteBecome a WP Minute Supporter & Slack member at https://thewpminute.com/supportOn this episode of The WP Minute+ podcast, Eric Karkovack speaks with freelance web designer Cami McNamara. Cami discusses her journey into web design, the importance of client relationships, and how to adapt to changes in the industry. She also shares insights from her newsletter, Web Designer Habits, and discusses effective business practices, self-care routines, and the significance of communication with clients. Cami emphasizes the value of personal connections in freelancing and offers practical tips for managing a web design business. Takeaways:Cami aims to be a hero for her clients.Her journey into web design began with a desire to create a website for sharing pictures of her child.She has maintained a strong client base even during downturns.Cami offers care plan services and manages over 200 websites.Fostering personal relationships with clients is key to retaining them.AI tools have positively impacted Cami’s business operations.Cami emphasizes the importance of small habits for productivity.Annual payment plans make bookkeeping more efficient for freelancers.Self-care practices like daily walks help manage stress.Offering free strategy sessions can lead to new projects.Important Links:WebCamiWeb Designer HabitsConnect with Cami: Bluesky | LinkedInThe WP Minute+ Podcast: thewpminute.com/subscribe ★ Support this podcast ★

Thanks Pressable for supporting the show! Get your special hosting deal at https://pressable.com/wpminuteBecome a WP Minute Supporter & Slack member at https://thewpminute.com/supportOn this episode of The WP Minute+ podcast, Eric Karkovack welcomes Brad Williams, co-founder of Web Dev Studios. Brad details his journey in the WordPress community, the evolution of web development, and the impact of AI on agency life. They discuss the importance of adapting to new technologies, the development of plugins like Theme Switcher Pro, and how agencies can leverage AI tools to enhance efficiency and client satisfaction. Brad shares insights on navigating client expectations and the future of AI in web development, emphasizing the need for agencies to stay ahead of the curve and continuously innovate. Takeaways:Brad Williams reflects on nearly 18 years of running Web Dev Studios.Theme Switcher Pro allows for multiple themes on a single WordPress site.AI tools are essential for improving efficiency in web development.Clients are increasingly interested in AI capabilities for their websites.Accessibility automation through AI can enhance website compliance.The evolution of WordPress has transformed how agencies operate.Understanding client pain points is crucial for agency success.AI should be viewed as a helper, not a replacement for developers.Continuous learning and adaptation are key in the tech industry.Important Links:Web Dev StudiosTheme Switcher ProConnect with Brad Williams:Bluesky | LinkedIn | Twitter/XThe WP Minute+ Podcast: thewpminute.com/subscribe ★ Support this podcast ★

Thanks Pressable for supporting the show! Get your special hosting deal at https://pressable.com/wpminuteBecome a WP Minute Supporter & Slack member at https://thewpminute.com/supportOn this episode of The WP Minute+ podcast, Eric Karkovack speaks with Rodolfo Melogli, the founder of Business Bloomer and organizer of the Checkout Summit. Rodolfo discussed the need for in-person WooCommerce conferences and shared his successful blogging journey. He also shared insights on the evolution of WooCommerce, its competition, and the vision behind the Checkout Summit. He emphasized the significance of networking and personal connections in the e-commerce space. Takeaways:Rodolfo’s journey into WooCommerce began unexpectedly after a career shift.Business Bloomer has been a vital resource for WooCommerce customization.Rodolfo has been advocating for in-person WooCommerce conferences for years.The Checkout Summit aims to foster real-life connections among WooCommerce enthusiasts.The event will focus on a small, intimate setting to encourage networking.Rodolfo believes in the flexibility and potential of WooCommerce compared to competitors.Rodolfo aims to create a relaxed atmosphere for speakers and attendees alike.The event is scheduled to take place on April 23-24, 2026, in Palermo, Sicily.Important Links:Checkout SummitBusiness BloomerConnect with Rodolfo Melogli:LinkedIn | Twitter/XThe WP Minute+ Podcast: thewpminute.com/subscribe ★ Support this podcast ★

Thanks Pressable for supporting the show! Get your special hosting deal at https://pressable.com/wpminuteBecome a WP Minute Supporter & Slack member at https://thewpminute.com/supportOn this episode of The WP Minute+ podcast, Eric is joined by Devin Walker, the new head of Jetpack. They discuss his transition from GiveWP to Jetpack, the acquisition process by Liquid Web, and his vision for Jetpack’s future. Devin shares insights on the challenges faced at Liquid Web, the importance of user experience, and the need for community engagement. He emphasizes the potential of AI in enhancing Jetpack’s onboarding process and the importance of gathering user feedback to drive product improvements. Takeaways:Devin Walker transitioned from GiveWP to Jetpack, bringing valuable experience with him.GiveWP’s acquisition by Liquid Web was thorough and focused on team welfare.Jetpack aims to redefine its value proposition in the WordPress ecosystem.User experience and onboarding are critical for Jetpack’s success.Community engagement will be a priority for Devin at Jetpack.AI integration is seen as a game changer for user onboarding.Devin plans to reach out to users to learn their needs.The future of Jetpack includes enhancing its product offerings and user experience.Devin aims to build a 10x product for Jetpack.Transparency in user feedback and product updates is essential.Important Links:JetpackDevin Walker’s Website | A New Chapter: Joining Automattic to Lead JetpackConnect with Devin: LinkedIn | Twitter/XThe WP Minute+ Podcast: thewpminute.com/subscribe ★ Support this podcast ★

Thanks Pressable for supporting the show! Get your special hosting deal at https://pressable.com/wpminuteBecome a WP Minute Supporter & Slack member at https://thewpminute.com/supportOn this episode of The WP Minute+ podcast, Eric Karkovack chats with Danny van Kooten, creator of popular WordPress plugins Mailchimp for WordPress (MC4WP) and Koko Analytics. Danny shares his unique journey into plugin development, which began during a hospital stay for appendicitis. He discusses the evolution of Koko Analytics, its focus on simplicity and user experience, and the strategic decision to build on the WordPress platform. They also examine the challenges of competing with Google, the importance of user feedback in product development, and why AI may not be a fit for every plugin. Takeaways:Danny’s journey into plugin development began during a hospital stay.Koko Analytics was created to simplify analytics for WordPress users.Koko Analytics aims to provide essential data without complexity.User feedback drives most of Koko’s development decisions.Danny prefers direct communication with users over AI interactions.Future updates will include advanced tracking features.Privacy-friendly analytics is a priority for Koko Analytics.Important Links:Danny van Kooten’s websiteKoko AnalyticsMailchimp for WordPress (MC4WP)The WP Minute+ Podcast: thewpminute.com/subscribe ★ Support this podcast ★

Thanks Pressable for supporting the show! Get your special hosting deal at https://pressable.com/wpminuteBecome a WP Minute Supporter & Slack member at https://thewpminute.com/supportOn this episode of The WP Minute+ podcast, Matt Medeiros chats with Roger Williams, Partnerships and Community Manager at Kinsta. They discuss the importance of hosting education for WordPress users and the nuances of service-level agreements (SLAs) in hosting. They also examine the significance of building strong client relationships through transparent hosting choices and the evolving role of AI in web development and SEO. The conversation also touches on Kinsta’s recent updates and the future of hosting and AI tools. Takeaways:Hosting education is crucial for WordPress users.SLAs are important to understand when choosing a host.AI tools enhance productivity but do not replace fundamental skills.The hosting environment is foundational to website performance.Transparency in hosting costs fosters better client relationships.Events like CloudFest provide valuable networking opportunities.Kinsta focuses on support and education for its users.The move to bandwidth-based pricing can alleviate frustrations with bot traffic.AI is reshaping how we approach web development and SEO.Important Links:KinstaConnect with Roger Williams on LinkedInThe WP Minute+ Podcast: thewpminute.com/subscribe ★ Support this podcast ★

Thanks Pressable for supporting the show! Get your special hosting deal at https://pressable.com/wpminuteBecome a WP Minute Supporter & Slack member at https://thewpminute.com/supportOn this episode of The WP Minute+ podcast, Matt Medeiros interviews Zach Stepek, Director of Partner Programs at BigScoots. They discuss the importance of transparency in agency partnerships, the definition of true partnership in hosting, and the ideal customer for BigScoots. They explore the infrastructure capabilities of BigScoots, the transition to enterprise-level hosting, and the associated costs of hosting e-commerce websites. The conversation also touches on the value of open-source solutions and the sales process for enterprises.Editor’s note: BigScoots is a Foundation+ sponsor of The WP MinuteTakeaways:Transparency with customers is crucial for agency partnerships.BigScoots offers a true partnership program, not just vendor services.The company has a high net promoter score, indicating excellent customer satisfaction.BigScoots can deploy custom hardware solutions for clients.Growth in agency business often requires taking risks.Hosting costs can vary significantly based on business needs.Open source solutions provide more control and ownership for businesses.The enterprise sales process is complex and requires strategic navigation.BigScoots is actively participating in various industry events to connect with partners.Important Links:BigScootsThe WP Minute+ Podcast: thewpminute.com/subscribe ★ Support this podcast ★