Agency Action

This episode of The WP Minute’s Agency Action podcast explores how AI is changing the way agencies build websites—and what that means for the future of the WordPress agency model. Kurt and Toby share their experience using AI tools to build and redesign a website, including where tools like Lovable can replace traditional workflows and where WordPress and developer expertise are still essential. They also dig into the business side of running an agency, from reducing tech debt and improving performance to hiring top talent, measuring profitability, and improving client communication.The conversation wraps with a discussion about the changing energy around WordCamps and the WordPress community.Takeaways:Simple brochure sites may no longer need WordPress. AI is great for first drafts, but humans still shape the final product. Complex business logic still requires developer expertise. Removing tech debt can improve performance more than adding new plugins. Expensive systems can’t replace strong operators. One great hire can outperform several average ones. Profitability matters more than billable hours. Frequent client status calls can signal internal communication problems.Important Links:Kurt’s Agency: Mañana No MasToby’s Agency: The Mighty Mo!Follow Kurt & Toby:LinkedIn: Kurt | TobyAgency Action Podcast: thewpminute.com/subscribe

This episode of The WP Minute’s Agency Action podcast explores a core agency question: is it better to pursue fewer, higher-value clients or more, lower-value clients with recurring revenue? Kurt and Toby compare both models using real examples from their own agencies, then widen the conversation into leadership, client fit, and what it means to build a business that lasts.Takeaways:Don’t seek cheap clients just because they’re available.Higher-value clients can be easier and more profitable.Firing poor-fit clients creates room for better ones.Recurring revenue creates stability and upsell opportunities.Hosting offers recurring revenue but is highly commoditized.Good leadership requires transparency, communication, and trust.Less financial pressure makes it easier to choose better clients.Important Links:Kurt’s Agency: Mañana No MasToby’s Agency: The Mighty Mo!Follow Kurt & Toby:LinkedIn: Kurt | TobyAgency Action Podcast: thewpminute.com/subscribe

If you could go back in time, what would you do differently? That’s the question Kurt and Toby tackle on this episode of The WP Minute’s Agency Action podcast. The guys recall services they shouldn’t have sold and the boundaries they didn’t create. The good news is that these lessons are learned through experience, and your agency has the power to evolve. It’s all about knowing when to make a positive change.You’ll also find thoughts on scaling your business, delegating tasks, and balancing profit and enjoyment.  And don’t miss their riffs on meeting client expectations, AI-generated RFP responses, and offering warranties on your work.Takeaways:Kurt would refuse to sell site audits and remodeling jobs.Toby emphasizes the need for firm processes and boundaries.User support is crucial for maintaining client relationships.Delegation is essential for growth but comes with discomfort.Profitability and enjoyment can often conflict.Successful agencies know when to stop certain practices.Cheap work can lead to better relationships if managed well.Scaling requires a shift in mindset and operations.Most successful founders lose the ego and focus on key performance indicators.Important Links:Kurt’s Agency: Mañana No MasToby’s Agency: The Mighty Mo!Follow Kurt & Toby: LinkedIn: Kurt | TobyAgency Action Podcast: thewpminute.com/subscribehttps://thewpminute.com/if-i-could-turn-back-time-for-my-agency/ 

Are you tired of long, unproductive meetings that feel like a waste of time? Things don’t have to be this way! On this episode of The WP Minute’s Agency Action podcast, Kurt and Toby explore tips and techniques for making meetings that work for everyone. It’s not as hard as you may think.Preparation is the key to success. For example, setting a clear agenda with achievable goals will help you keep things from going off the rails. There’s also something to be said for the balance between urgency and importance in the decision-making process.With a little work, you can turn meetings from a dreaded duty to a way to move things forward. This episode has everything you need to get started.Takeaways:Meetings often lack structure and purpose.A good meeting should leave participants feeling productive.Implementing a consistent agenda can improve meeting effectiveness.Team dynamics can significantly impact meeting outcomes.Urgent tasks often distract from important goals.Building relationships is key to finding work.Sales should be prioritized over marketing in early stages.Networking can lead to unexpected opportunities.Accountability in meetings fosters better follow-through.Effective communication is essential for team success.Important Links:Kurt’s Agency: Mañana No MasToby’s Agency: The Mighty Mo!Follow Kurt & Toby: LinkedIn: Kurt | TobyAgency Action Podcast: thewpminute.com/subscribehttps://thewpminute.com/meetings-dont-have-to-suck/ 

It’s easy for freelancers and agency owners to be pessimistic these days. The market is saturated with competition, AI is disrupting everything, and a “sure thing” is hard to find. This week’s episode of The WP Minute’s Agency Action podcast is all about casting a ray of light on your career.Kurt and Toby examine the opportunities in the WordPress and freelancing space. The guys are all about keeping an optimistic outlook, even during the inevitable downturns. They have tips for distinguishing between marketing and sales, as well as for keeping your focus on revenue generation. Most of all, it’s about understanding who you are and defining your area of expertise. Remember, you can do it! Takeaways:Optimism is crucial for success in running an agency.Freelancers must focus on their marketing strategy to attract clients.Understanding the difference between freelancing and full-time employment is essential.Generating revenue should be the primary focus for freelancers.Freelancers can expand their services to include IT-related tasks.WordPress is a tool, and the real challenge lies in running an agency.Community pessimism can be countered with a focus on solutions and expertise.Sales and marketing serve different purposes in business development.The future of software development presents new opportunities for agencies.Effective communication and understanding client needs are key to closing deals.Important Links:Kurt’s Agency: Mañana No MasToby’s Agency: The Mighty Mo!Follow Kurt & Toby: LinkedIn: Kurt | TobyAgency Action Podcast: thewpminute.com/subscribehttps://thewpminute.com/who-are-you-wordpress-professional/