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/supportIn this episode of The WP Minute+ podcast, Matt Medeiros and Kamil Rextin discuss the evolution of Kamil’s agency, 42 Agency, and its focus on demand generation and revenue operations. They explore the challenges and opportunities in the digital marketing landscape, particularly in relation to AI integration and client relationships. Kamil shares insights on the importance of website development as a marketing tool, the dynamics of agency-client interactions, and the future of AI in enhancing business operations. The discussion also touches on the tools and technologies that Kamil’s agency employs to streamline processes and improve efficiency.Takeaways:Kamil’s agency focuses on demand generation and revenue operations.Websites are now considered table stakes in digital marketing.AI can enhance efficiency but cannot replace human intuition.Client relationships are crucial for agency success.Agencies need to adapt to the evolving digital landscape.AI tools can streamline operations and improve productivity.Kamil emphasizes the importance of positioning and messaging.The agency market is competitive but offers opportunities for smaller players.AI integration is still in its early stages for many clients.Kamil believes in the potential of AI to open new business avenues.Important Links:42 AgencyConnect with Kamil on 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/supportIn this episode of The WP Minute+ podcast, Phil Thompson from Pressable discusses the importance of human connection in customer support, the challenges of handling plugin issues, and the dynamics of agency partnerships. He emphasizes the need for empathy in support roles and how Pressable prioritizes customer feedback in their development process. The discussion also touches on the potential impact of AI on WordPress and customer support, highlighting both the opportunities and challenges it presents.Takeaways:Phil emphasizes the importance of empathy in customer support.Pressable’s approach includes a “surprise and delight” program for customers.The company prioritizes hiring empathetic individuals for their support team.Phil shares insights on navigating plugin-related customer issues.Pressable actively incorporates customer feedback into its product development.AI presents both opportunities and challenges for WordPress support.Clear communication with customers about plugin issues is crucial.Phil discusses the dynamics of agency partnerships and referrals.Pressable aims to provide a seamless customer experience without tiered support.Important Links:PressableThe 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/supportIn this episode of The WP Minute+ podcast, Toby and Kurt explore the complexities of running a WordPress agency. They discuss the challenges posed by aggressive sales tactics in the industry, the ethics of client relationships, and the importance of intentionality in business operations. They also examine the debate between niche marketing and generalist approaches, the role of systems in agency management, and the transition from service-based work to product development. The conversation also touches on the impact of AI on business and the enduring value of trust in client interactions.Takeaways:Understanding when to hire or fire is crucial for agency owners.Ethics play a significant role in client interactions.Intentionality in business operations leads to better outcomes.Niche marketing can be beneficial but may not suit every agency.Systems like EOS can help structure agency operations effectively.Transitioning from services to products requires careful planning.AI is reshaping the landscape of business and client interactions.Trust remains a critical commodity in the age of AI.The future of business may rely on human expertise over AI.Customer relationships are more important than transactions.Upselling can be done effectively with tiered pricing.Partnerships can significantly boost agency work.Small businesses should prioritize direct client engagement.AI fatigue is a real concern in business support.Important Links:Kurt’s Agency: Mañana No MasToby’s Agency: The Mighty Mo!Follow Kurt & Toby:LinkedIn: Kurt | TobyThe 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/supportIn this episode of The WP Minute+ podcast, Kurt and Toby discuss their favorite business and non-business books, exploring themes of leadership, project management, and the importance of community. They examine the concept of product market fit, the balance between ambition and control, and the role of libraries as valuable resources. The conversation also touches on financial insights, the use of debt in business, and the significance of automating processes. They conclude with reflections on engagement and content creation, emphasizing the need for continuous learning and adaptation in the business landscape.Takeaways:The Four-Hour Work Week encourages challenging assumptions about work.Effective communication with clients is crucial for project management.Leadership is about influence, not just position.Community involvement can enhance business success.Business books should be taken with a grain of salt.Finding product market fit is essential for success.Debt can be leveraged for business growth.Automating processes can save time and resources.Libraries offer valuable resources for learning and growth.Continuous learning is vital in adapting to changes in business. ★ 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, Toby and Kurt discuss the journey of agency ownership. They explore the transition from feeling like a hobbyist to establishing a legitimate business. They also examine the importance of mindset shifts, resilience, and creating boundaries for work-life balance. The conversation also emphasizes the significance of processes in agency management, navigating client relationships, and the need for a saleable business model. They also touch on leveraging technology for efficiency, the evolving landscape of SEO with AI, and financial management strategies, including payment solutions.Takeaways:The transition from hobbyist to business owner requires a mindset shift.Establishing a consistent paycheck can help solidify the feeling of being employed.Building resilience in business involves diversifying client relationships.Setting boundaries is crucial for maintaining work-life balance.Processes are essential for agency management and scalability.Client relationships should be managed with clear expectations.A saleable business requires documentation and processes that are repeatable.Leveraging technology can streamline operations and improve efficiency.SEO is evolving with AI, and agencies must adapt to stay relevant.Financial management strategies, including ACH payments, are vital for agency sustainability.Important Links:Kurt’s Agency: Mañana No MasToby’s Agency: The Mighty Mo!Follow Kurt & Toby:LinkedIn: Kurt | TobyThe 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/supportIn this episode of The WP Minute+ podcast, Kurt and Toby discuss various aspects of running a WordPress agency, including productivity, work-life balance, client communication, emotional intelligence, and the importance of setting clear expectations with clients. They explore the challenges of maintaining websites, the significance of emotional deposits and withdrawals in client relationships, and the balance between personal passions and professional responsibilities. The conversation also touches on hiring strategies, the tools used for communication within agencies, and the cultural sensitivities that arise when working with clients from various backgrounds. Ultimately, the guys emphasize the importance of building relationships, understanding client needs, and navigating the complexities of agency life.Takeaways:Early mornings can set a productive tone for the day.Self-awareness is key to recognizing when to take breaks.Client communication should set clear expectations from the start.Emotional deposits with clients can lead to better relationships.Website maintenance often requires band-aid solutions.Following your passions can enhance overall life satisfaction.Building community and friendships is important for personal growth.Choosing the right communication tools can improve agency efficiency.Hiring strategies should consider the loyalty and commitment of employees.Important Links:Kurt’s Agency: Mañana No MasToby’s Agency: The Mighty Mo!Follow Kurt & Toby:LinkedIn: Kurt | TobyThe 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/supportIn this episode of The WP Minute+ podcast, Kurt and Toby discuss various challenges and responsibilities in the WordPress development space, including user error, software design, and the importance of client education. They explore innovative business ideas, the valuation of agencies, and the impact of SaaS and subscription costs on operations. They also consider the importance of communication in business, the role of AI in development, and the balance between risk and innovation. They conclude with thoughts on building relationships with clients and the future of AI in the business world.Takeaways:User error is often the root cause of support issues.Software designers have a responsibility to make things user-friendly.Client education is crucial for reducing misunderstandings.Innovative business ideas can stem from existing services.Valuing a business involves understanding potential income streams.SaaS costs can add up quickly; consider lifetime deals.Effective communication is key to client relationships.AI is changing the landscape of business and development.Balancing risk and innovation is essential for growth.Friction in the sales process can lead to more committed clients.Important Links:Kurt’s Agency: Mañana No MasToby’s Agency: The Mighty Mo!Follow Kurt & Toby:LinkedIn: Kurt | TobyThe 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/supportIn this episode of The WP Minute+ podcast, Kurt and Toby discuss the complexities of pricing, client relationships, and ethics in agency work. They explore the balance between offering expertise and competing with cheaper alternatives, the importance of discipline and motivation in business, and the evolving landscape of marketing strategies. The conversation also touches on the value of SEO and the need for agencies to adapt their pricing models to reflect the true worth of their services.Takeaways:Navigating client relationships can be challenging, especially when price becomes a deciding factor.Expertise should be valued over cheaper alternatives, even if it means losing a client.Ethics play a crucial role in how agencies handle client cancellations and refunds.SEO strategies must align with client expectations to avoid negative feedback.The value of results should be prioritized over the processes used to achieve them.Discipline is essential for maintaining motivation in agency work.Community engagement can lead to unexpected opportunities and connections.Agencies must adapt their marketing strategies to attract the “right” clients.Understanding the market perception of pricing can help agencies position themselves effectively. ★ 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, Matt is joined by Sandra Kurze to discuss the unique offerings of Greyd, a comprehensive suite of tools designed for web agencies and enterprises. They review the challenges of enterprise projects, the importance of pricing and value in WordPress tools, and how Greyd streamlines labor and enhances efficiency in web development. The role of AI in future web development is explored, along with the significance of building strong client relationships. Greyd’s support and onboarding process are highlighted, and the conversation concludes with insights into Greyd’s expansion into the U.S. market and future goals.Key Takeaways:Greyd is a comprehensive suite of tools for web agencies.The all-in-one approach helps streamline complex projects.Enterprise projects often require centralized management of multiple sites.Pricing in WordPress tools should reflect their value and efficiency.Streamlining labor can significantly enhance agency productivity.AI is set to transform the web development landscape.Building strong client relationships is crucial for project success.Greyd offers personalized support and onboarding for new users.The WordPress community and its users often have different perspectives.Greyd is expanding into the U.S. market to tap into new opportunities.Important Links:GreydThe 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/supportIn this episode of The WP Minute+ Podcast, Toby and Kurt discuss the complexities of client relationships, particularly focusing on handling refunds, emotional intelligence in communication, and the importance of setting boundaries. They explore the dynamics of good versus bad clients, the impact of personal relationships on business, and the evolving landscape of pricing strategies in agency work. The conversation also touches on the integration of AI tools in agency processes and the fear of success that many entrepreneurs face. Ultimately, they emphasize the importance of empathy, direct communication, and the art of negotiation in maintaining healthy client relationships.Takeaways:Clients often change their minds without considering the financial implications.It’s important to set clear boundaries regarding refunds and project expectations.Emotional intelligence plays a crucial role in business communication.Direct communication is often more effective than written correspondence.Understanding client dynamics can help in managing expectations.Good clients are those who are invested in the project and have the authority to make decisions.The fear of raising prices can hinder business growth.AI tools can enhance agency processes, but should not replace human creativity.Setting boundaries is essential for maintaining a healthy work-life balance.Navigating personal and professional relationships requires empathy and understanding.Important Links:Kurt’s Agency: Mañana No MasToby’s Agency: The Mighty Mo!Follow Kurt & Toby:LinkedIn: Kurt | TobyThe 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/supportIn this episode of The WP Minute+ podcast, Matt is joined by veteran writer Maddy Osman to discuss the evolving landscape of content creation in the age of AI. Maddy shares her journey, including her recent book and course launch, and reflects on the impact of AI on writing and content marketing. They explore the balance between leveraging AI tools and maintaining human creativity, the importance of personal experiences in writing, and the need for businesses to adapt to changing audience behaviors. The discussion also focuses on building trust and community in a digital world, as well as the future of WordPress in the context of AI advancements. Key Takeaways:Maddy discusses how becoming a parent has changed her career.She launched a LinkedIn Learning course based on her book, Writing for Humans and Robots: The New Rules of Content Style.AI is a tool that can't replicate everything yet.Content creators are among the first affected by AI.AI can enhance workflows, but shouldn't replace human thought.Human experience is crucial in writing and content creation.AI can create efficiencies, but may lead to a toxic hustle culture.Brands need to guide users through new technologies.Content marketing is evolving in response to shifting audience preferences.Building trust and human connections is essential in business. Important Links:Maddy Osman on LinkedInThe BlogsmithWriting for Humans and Robots: The New Rules of Content Style ★ 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, Kurt von Ahnen and Toby Cryns discuss the complexities of integrating AI into agency work, the challenges of managing client expectations, and the importance of effective project management. They explore the importance of clear communication with clients and the financial aspects of running an agency.The guys emphasize the importance of agency owners setting boundaries, managing client relationships, and recognizing when to delegate tasks to maintain a healthy work-life balance.Key Takeaways:AI is a tool that requires proper management and understanding.Clients often have unrealistic expectations about AI’s capabilities.Setting clear boundaries with clients is essential for agency success.Effective project management can significantly improve workflow and client satisfaction.Communication is key in managing client relationships and expectations.Emotional deposits and withdrawals impact client relationships.Agency owners should not hesitate to delegate tasks they find challenging.Financial management is crucial for sustaining your agency’s operations.It’s important to establish clear guidelines for client access to projects.Work-life balance is vital for long-term success in agency work.Important Links:Kurt’s Agency: Mañana No MasToby’s Agency: The Mighty Mo!Follow Kurt & Toby:LinkedIn: Kurt | TobyThe 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/supportIn this episode of The WP Minute+ Podcast, Kurt and Toby look at the practical and emotional challenges of managing WordPress agency projects. From sales pitfalls to client relationship dynamics and infrastructure transitions, the conversation is packed with firsthand lessons and agency wisdom.Toby kicks off the discussion with a cautionary tale about losing a major deal due to poor energy and overexposure to meetings, a common struggle in client-driven work. Kurt emphasizes the importance of emotional readiness and shares his go-to mantra: focus on the relationship, and the transaction will follow. They discuss strategies for rescheduling meetings professionally when you’re not at your best and the dangers of showing up unprepared.They also reflect on project management as the core skill of running a successful agency, noting that it often matters more than technical skills. They explore “the messy middle” of projects, sharing techniques for refocusing clients during chaotic phases. Kurt values minimal viable products and clear deliverables, while Toby relates these lessons to both web work and personal projects.Finally, they discuss when to let go of problematic clients or outdated tech stacks. Whether it’s walking away from HostGator or reconsidering tools like Divi or ManageWP, both hosts agree: trust your gut, set boundaries, and don’t let short-term financial needs sabotage long-term growth.Takeaways:Rescheduling a meeting when unprepared is better than pushing through and blowing the opportunity.Project management is often the most valuable agency skill, especially in larger contracts.In big projects, refocus clients by reiterating core business goals and pushing toward MVPs.Listen to your instincts when deciding whether to keep a client or tool, and don’t ignore red flags.Website migrations and infrastructure shifts should be carefully planned, ideally with internal expertise.Clients rarely care about minor aesthetic tweaks; they want results and functionality.Important Links:Kurt’s Agency: Mañana No MasToby’s Agency: The Mighty Mo!Follow Kurt & Toby:LinkedIn: Kurt | TobyThe 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/supportIn this episode of The WP Minute+, I sit down with Carrie Dils and Karim Marucchi to talk through FAIR—short for Federated and Independent Repositories—a new package management project launched under the Linux Foundation. If you're in the WordPress space and wondering what FAIR is, why it matters, and how it might change the plugin and theme ecosystem, this is the episode for you.Carrie, one of FAIR’s elected co-chairs, walks us through the technical architecture and vision for FAIR, including how it aims to bring more resilience and transparency to how plugins and themes are distributed. Karim adds broader context from his enterprise experience, making the case for why redundancy and federation are vital for WordPress's future. We touch on the practical details of how FAIR works today—including Fastly nodes, AspirePress, and the .3 plugin release—while looking ahead at governance, funding, and how the Linux Foundation structures this initiative.Of course, I have some tough questions: How will FAIR balance governance with innovation? Will it become “just another bureaucracy”? How do we avoid turning this into a divisive issue—FAIR vs. .org? We talk about those tensions and the team's intention for FAIR to extend WordPress, not split it. There’s also a good reality check on how plugin moderation, security scanning, and transparency are being improved through this effort.Whether you're running an agency, building WordPress products, or just care about where the ecosystem is heading, this episode gives you a grounded view of what FAIR is—and what it isn’t.Great Takeaways & Quotes:"This isn’t a fork. This is a failover." — Karim Marucchi"FAIR isn't just about today’s plugin distribution problems—it’s about creating a foundation for the next 20 years of WordPress.""We’re building a system where plugin trust, provenance, and availability don’t rely on a single choke point.""Yes, FAIR is about stability, but it’s also about discoverability—for both users and developers." — Carrie Dils"We’re not trying to replace .org—we’ve invited .org to join the federation.""Even though you don’t see a difference when you update a plugin, that’s the point. FAIR is meant to be invisible until you need it."Important URLs Mentioned:FAIR Project GitHub (via fair.pm)Linux Foundation announcement on FAIRAspirePress ★ 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+, Kurt and Toby explore the shifting landscape of WordPress, sparked by Toby’s visit to a no-code meetup in Minneapolis. They discuss the rise of non-technical entrepreneurs building functional businesses with no-code tools and how that approach compares to the traditional WordPress ethos of craftsmanship, responsibility, and long-term support. They reflect on the decline of accountability in some corners of tech, where lifetime deals and fast-money SaaS platforms are more about hype than sustainability.They also explore how AI is reshaping development, from creating unmaintainable codebases to confusing newer users into thinking AI can replace skilled developers. This naturally leads to the question: Are live WordPress meetups and local communities losing relevance in a world where new tech communities are buzzing with energy? Kurt and Toby share personal anecdotes and weigh the pros and cons of continuing traditional meetups versus embracing newer, more generalist tech conversations.Rounding out the discussion, they touch on sales strategies, LinkedIn lead generation, and their experiences with marketing processes that move the needle, versus those that make noise.Key TakeawaysNo-code tools are enabling business owners to skip traditional coding, but often at the cost of long-term stability.WordPress’s commitment to backward compatibility and responsibility contrasts sharply with fly-by-night SaaS products.AI-generated code can lead to maintenance nightmares. Human expertise is still irreplaceable.Local WordPress meetups may be fading, but the need for authentic community and knowledge-sharing persists.Sales and marketing processes like LinkedIn automation can yield real leads, but need refinement and balance.Speaking gigs, courses, and books remain valuable tools for agency owners to build authority and generate leads.Important Links:Kurt’s Agency: Mañana No MasToby’s Agency: The Mighty Mo!Follow Kurt & Toby:LinkedIn: Kurt | TobyThe 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/supportIn this episode of The WP Minute+ podcast, Kurt and Toby dive into the common misconception that WordPress (and websites in general) should be “easy.” They share stories about custom-coded nightmares, misunderstood AI-generated solutions, and the tricky line between client expectations and developer realities. The conversation touches on the perils of overpromising simplicity in web development and the challenges freelancers face when clients hand them projects that were “supposed to be easy,” often involving ChatGPT or drag-and-drop builders like Elementor.Kurt also shares his eye-opening experience speaking to high school students about WordPress and running an agency. Surprisingly, most students had never heard of WordPress or open-source, revealing a gap in technical and entrepreneurial education. The episode concludes with a candid discussion on freelancing versus employment, benefits myths, impostor syndrome, and the emotional leap required to run a digital agency.Key Takeaways:Many clients mistake ease-of-use tools (like Elementor or AI) for simplicity in execution.AI-generated code often introduces unexpected complexity and risks.Freelancers should diplomatically explain scope, staging, and testing needs, especially for “quick” fixes.Young people are alarmingly unfamiliar with WordPress and open source, despite growing interest in web development.Running a WordPress agency is accessible, but requires an entrepreneurial mindset, not just technical skills.Freelancers and consultants should confidently share their work and availability. Your visibility is key to opportunity.Financial freedom and geographic flexibility can be drastically improved by relocating or adjusting business models.Important Links:Kurt’s Agency: Mañana No MasToby’s Agency: The Mighty Mo!Follow Kurt & Toby:LinkedIn: Kurt | Toby ★ Support this podcast ★

This is the recording between Matt Mullenweg and Mary Hubbard on stage at WordCamp Europe 2025. They covered everything from regulation in the EU, the FAIR package manager announcement, and new education pathways, to what’s next for WordPress core and the ecosystem. The session started with Mary interviewing Matt, followed by a live Q&A with the audience, tackling concerns from longtime contributors, organizers, and first-time attendees alike.Matt opened with thoughts on the European regulatory landscape, pointing out both the good intentions and friction caused by cookie consent banners and compliance rules. He emphasized WordPress’ alignment with other open-source CMS projects like Drupal and Joomla, and the potential for advocacy through EU-based hosting companies. The topic of establishing a legal presence for the WordPress Foundation in the EU came up—an idea that’s being considered but seen as too complex to act on right now.The FAIR project announcement got a cautious but open-minded response from Matt. While he acknowledged the potential of a federated repository for plugins and themes, he highlighted significant concerns around trust, rollout coordination, and analytics. He stressed the importance of plugin safety, org infrastructure, and recent advances in automated vulnerability scanning. Then came a rapid-fire Q&A: contributors asked about AI in WordPress, the sustainability team’s future, WooCommerce’s branding against Shopify, Campus Connect’s expansion, funding WordCamps in underrepresented regions, and even the need to modernize internal tools like CampTix. A big highlight was the 150-hour university credit pilot launching in Pisa this month—an exciting new way to bring student contributors into the project at scale.Have a listen to the whole audio episode while you're on the go!  ★ 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 insightful episode of The WP Minute+, Kurt and Toby dive deep into the business mechanics behind running a WordPress-based web agency. They explore the power of blueprints: predefined, productized service packages to streamline work, deliver consistent results, and increase profitability. Rather than reinventing the wheel for every client, creating reusable setups lets agencies charge more for less effort while offering high-value, fast-launch solutions.They also confront the reality of burnout and the importance of creating systems that minimize stress while maximizing effectiveness. The conversation shifts into the freelancer-to-agency mindset transformation, stressing the need to move beyond hourly billing and toward value-based pricing. Kurt and Toby emphasize that many freelancers undervalue their work by associating speed with cheaper rates, when in fact, expertise should warrant higher pricing.The guys also discuss client management, feature creep, and sales strategy. They argue that most clients are less concerned with WordPress release schedules than developers assume, and that focusing on sales and client relationships is more crucial than chasing the latest features or trends. They also highlight the importance of saying “no” to misguided client ideas and protecting your energy and time as an agency owner or freelancer.Key TakeawaysProductizing services through blueprints leads to faster delivery and higher perceived value.Burnout is real, and managing it requires delegation, focusing on strengths, and structured schedules.Value-based pricing beats hourly billing; charging more for faster, higher-quality outcomes is fair and smart.Freelancers transitioning to agency owners must start thinking about scale, margins, and team delegation.Client success starts with responsiveness. Answering emails and calls quickly can lead to upsell opportunities and long-term relationships.Sales and marketing should consume a significant portion of your weekly workload to maintain a healthy pipeline.Important Links:Kurt’s Agency: Mañana No MasToby’s Agency: The Mighty Mo!Follow Kurt & Toby:LinkedIn: Kurt | TobyThe 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/supportIn this candid and wide-ranging episode, Kurt von Ahnen and Toby Cryns reflect on the unique ups and downs of running a small WordPress agency. From their early days coding in HTML and building Flash websites to managing client rosters, teams, and productized services, the hosts explore the joys and hard-won lessons of agency life. One major theme: the freedom (and chaos) of living and working on their own terms. Both hosts share what makes them “emotionally unemployable,” emphasizing how autonomy, community involvement, and passion-driven work keep them committed to their businesses rather than traditional employment.The conversation also covers important topics like pricing services, navigating global competition, managing clients and contractors, and building credibility through niche expertise and community engagement. Whether it’s “firing” the bottom third of clients each year or offering templated websites to local food trucks, Kurt and Toby share actionable strategies and hilarious stories from the trenches.Key Takeaways:Letting go of low-value clients can lead to business growth and improved margins.Overseas freelancers often undercut U.S. rates, creating tension in hiring decisions.Being part of your local community (through events, speaking, and partnerships) can naturally build trust and attract clients.Effective labor rate (ELR) is a key KPI to track project profitability.Productized services (like $1500 templated websites + $79/month maintenance) offer sustainable income for smaller clients.Sales success often hinges on personal connections and industry niche familiarity.The path to long-term agency survival is through adaptability and knowing your worth.Important Links:Kurt’s Agency: Mañana No MasToby’s Agency: The Mighty Mo!Follow Kurt & Toby:LinkedIn: Kurt | TobyThe 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/supportIn this episode of the WP Minute+ Podcast, Matt welcomes Vova Feldman, the founder and CEO of Freemius, to discuss how the company is expanding beyond its roots in the WordPress ecosystem. Vova shares how Freemius has evolved over the past few years, from supporting WordPress plugin and theme developers to rebranding as a full-service sales and monetization platform for all software makers, including SaaS and apps. The shift is driven by a desire to simplify the sales process and empower developers with a complete solution that includes licensing, billing, marketing automation, and merchant-of-record services.Vova dives into the value Freemius provides not just technically, but strategically, guiding makers through crucial business stages like pricing, packaging, and growth. He explains how AI and the rise of low-code tools empower a new wave of non-technical founders. He describes how Freemius is positioning itself to support these entrepreneurs with the infrastructure they need to go to market quickly. Vova also discusses the ongoing challenge of educating users about the benefits of a merchant of record model and how Freemius plans to integrate AI to offer smarter insights and automate decision-making for software businesses.Key Takeaways:Freemius has expanded from WordPress into the broader SaaS and software ecosystem.The platform offers end-to-end infrastructure for software sales, including licensing, marketing tools, and merchant-of-record services.Education and support are central to Freemius’ growth strategy, though they are working to scale it.Many WordPress developers hesitate due to pricing concerns, but the added features and services provide significant ROI.AI is accelerating software creation, and Freemius is preparing for a future where non-developers launch apps with the help of no-code tools and AI.Freemius plans to enhance its data analytics and reporting through AI to deliver business insights directly within the platform.Important Links:The WP Minute+ Podcast: thewpminute.com/subscribeFreemius : https://freemius.com/Plugin.fm Podcast: https://plugin.fm/ ★ Support this podcast ★