BusinessMarketingCareers

Agency Action

WP Minute

Hosted by Toby Cryns and Kurt von Ahnen, the Agency Action Podcast (Part of the WP Minute Podcast Network) dives into the real-world ups and downs of running a WordPress agency. Each week, Toby and Kurt share open, honest conversations about the challenges and victories that come with building client relationships, pricing projects, finding the right tools, and growing a sustainable business.

Whether you’re just launching your agency or refining your systems, you’ll get practical insights from two agency owners who live it every day—along with stories that remind you you’re not alone in this wild WordPress world of global teams, AI disruption, and constant change.

Follow the show and explore more at TheWPMinute.com/podcasts

Play

Open in

20 episodes
weekly
Avg 35 min
English

Episodes 20

Newest Oldest Longest

All20 Unplayed20 In progress0 Played0

#42
Yesterday · 44 min
Is AI About to Break the WordPress Agency Model?
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 Mas Toby’s Agency: The Mighty Mo! Follow Kurt & Toby: LinkedIn: Kurt | Toby Agency Action Podcast: thewpminute.com/subscribe
- Transcript
#41
September 1 · 31 min
Fewer Clients, More Revenue?
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 Mas Toby’s Agency: The Mighty Mo! Follow Kurt & Toby: LinkedIn: Kurt | Toby Agency Action Podcast: thewpminute.com/subscribe
- Transcript
#40
August 18 · 36 min
If I Could Turn Back Time (For My Agency)
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 Mas Toby’s Agency: The Mighty Mo! Follow Kurt & Toby: LinkedIn: Kurt | Toby Agency Action Podcast: thewpminute.com/subscribe https://thewpminute.com/if-i-could-turn-back-time-for-my-agency/
- Transcript
#39
August 11 · 33 min
Meetings Don’t Have to Suck
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 Mas Toby’s Agency: The Mighty Mo! Follow Kurt & Toby: LinkedIn: Kurt | Toby Agency Action Podcast: thewpminute.com/subscribe https://thewpminute.com/meetings-dont-have-to-suck/
- Transcript
#38
August 4 · 33 min
Who Are You, WordPress Professional?
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 Mas Toby’s Agency: The Mighty Mo! Follow Kurt & Toby: LinkedIn: Kurt | Toby Agency Action Podcast: thewpminute.com/subscribe https://thewpminute.com/who-are-you-wordpress-professional/
- Transcript
#37
July 28 · 41 min
What Happens to Your Agency While You’re Away?
On this episode of The WP Minute’s Agency Action podcast, Kurt and Toby examine the challenges of taking time off. A sabbatical can be great for the soul. However, it’s also a test for your agency’s processes and team members. Can they keep things going while you’re away? You’ll also find takes on pricing projects in the age of AI, the role of trust in agency work, and the future of content creation. There’s also advice for that age-old dilemma of asking for money. Don’t miss it! Takeaways: Taking breaks is essential for personal and professional growth. Sabbaticals can help test team dynamics and processes. Pricing strategies must adapt to the efficiencies brought by AI. Trust is a key factor in agency/client relationships. The future of software development is leaning towards no-code solutions. Documenting team dependencies can help streamline workflows. Ethics in pricing is a complex issue for agency owners. Local AI processing is currently slower than cloud-based solutions. Video is seen as more trustworthy than AI-generated content. Agencies should focus on creating valuable content to attract clients. Asking for money is a necessary part of business. Pricing strategies can impact perceived value. Integrity-driven marketing can lead to sustainable growth. 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 https://thewpminute.com/what-happens-to-your-agency-while-youre-away/
- Transcript
#35
July 21 · 50 min
Automate, Build, or Buy? The New Agency Playbook
Get ready for a special edition of The WP Minute’s Agency Action podcast! Matt Medeiros (filling in for a vacationing Kurt and Toby) is joined by developer and WordPress core contributor Brendan O'Connell. Together, they explore the increasing role of AI in agency life. The discussion touches on the technology’s impact on automation, creativity, and web hosting. You’ll also find tips on using tools like N8N and Hermes to boost your workflow and advice for navigating the lightning-paced industry shifts. Where does AI fit into your agency? This episode will help you find the perfect balance. Takeaways: AI is transforming how agency owners operate and build tools. Understanding automation is still crucial despite the rise of AI. The rapid pace of AI’s evolution impacts our productivity and attention spans. Creative professionals are experiencing a surge in idea generation. Open-source solutions like Hermes are becoming more accessible. The balance between buying and building tools is shifting. AI tools can enhance workflows but may also lead to dependency. The economics of AI are changing as open-source models emerge. Agencies need to adapt to the evolving landscape to stay competitive. AI can help manage project context and prevent drift. AI should augment human roles, not replace them. Important Links: Connect with Brendan: LinkedIn | Twitter/X | Website Agency Action Podcast: thewpminute.com/subscribe
- Transcript
#34
July 14 · 37 min
AI Fatigue Is an Opportunity for Agencies
This episode of The WP Minute’s Agency Action podcast looks at the growing trend of AI fatigue. Kurt and Toby note that clients are finding that AI tools alone can’t solve their pain points. It presents a big opportunity for agencies and freelancers to save the day! You’ll find advice on the importance of selling solutions (rather than code), adopting agency subscription models, and effective time management strategies. The guys also examine the challenges of staying productive and diversifying client relationships to mitigate risk. It’s everything you need to turn your client’s AI problem into profit. Takeaways: Mid-sized clients prefer to work with experts rather than engage with AI tools themselves. There is a growing fatigue among clients regarding AI technologies. Selling is more profitable than merely building websites. Clients often underestimate the complexity of maintaining digital products. AI can add complexity to client relationships, especially regarding billing and access. Subscription models can provide steady revenue streams for agencies. Time blocking is essential for maintaining productivity and focus. 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
- Transcript
#33
July 7 · 30 min
Are Your Projects Too Complicated?
Maybe your client projects start with simple ideas. But client requests and scope creep can turn them into a tangled mess before you know it. Kurt and Toby have been there! This episode of The WP Minute’s Agency Action podcast is all about keeping your projects (and clients) on the right track. The guys discuss evolving client expectations, AI’s role in project management, and how experience can help you navigate the challenges. In the end, it’s all about clear communication, effective processes, and critical thinking. Takeaways: Complexity in projects is subjective and varies by individual. Technology has evolved, making certain requests easier to fulfill. AI is changing the landscape of project requests and expectations. Experience plays a crucial role in defining project complexity. Managing client expectations is key to successful project outcomes. Clear processes can mitigate potential complications. Clients often underestimate the complexity of their requests. 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
- Transcript
#32
June 30 · 30 min
The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly of Self Promotion
Are you tired of the endless self-promotion on social media? Not sure how to show off your skills without bothering others? This episode of The WP Minute’s Agency Action podcast is for you! Kurt and Toby examine the complexities of self-promotion on LinkedIn. The guys explore the ethical dilemmas of business practices and the transformative impact of AI on lead generation and workflows. They also discuss the fine line between effective marketing and distasteful self-promotion, the necessity of adapting to changing business landscapes, and the importance of having the right tools for success. You’ll also find reflections on the future of work and the role of innovation in professional growth. Takeaways: Self-promotion on LinkedIn can be off-putting but necessary. There's a fine line between sharing achievements and overdoing it. AI is changing how we generate leads and market ourselves. Desperation can shift moral judgments in business practices. Exploring new avenues can lead to unexpected opportunities. Integrating AI into workflows can enhance productivity. The cost of innovation can be a barrier for many businesses. Embracing change is essential in the digital landscape. There is great benefit in being part of a community that shares knowledge. 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
- Transcript
#31
June 23 · 35 min
Your Client Just Hired Someone Else. Now What?
Client transitions are on Kurt and Toby’s minds in this episode of The WP Minute’s Agency Action podcast. The guys look at what happens when a client goes elsewhere, how it impacts your professional relationships, and why boundaries are important. They also examine the value of giving back through volunteering and mentorship. You’ll also find their takes on the skills gap in education and an agency’s role in closing it. Takeaways: Setting boundaries is crucial when clients leave. Flexibility can lead to complications in client relationships. Expertise is often undervalued in budget discussions. Communication is key when managing project expectations. Contributions to the community can enhance agency reputation and bring personal fulfillment. Professionalism and humility can coexist in client interactions. Teaching is a valuable way to give back to the community. Podcasting can be a fun way to share knowledge and connect with others. Community leadership comes with both rewards and challenges. It's important to consider the potential negative exposure when sharing publicly. 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
- Transcript
#30
June 16 · 39 min
Do You Have an Agency or a Job?
This episode of The WP Minute’s Agency Action podcast asks a simple question: Do you have agency or a job? Kurt and Toby discuss the nuances of building an agency and offer sustainability tips. The guys also discuss the importance of client relationships and the common pitfalls associated with growth. You’ll also find insights on apprenticeships and the mindset of a successful agency owner. It’s everything you wanted to know about growing your agency into a sellable asset! Takeaways: Unlike a job, an agency is a sustainable entity. Client relationships are crucial for agency growth. Effective project management can help with billing and scope creep. Growth does not always equate to increased profit or happiness. Training and mentoring the next generation is vital for agency success. Value-based pricing can lead to better agency sustainability. Effective communication within teams enhances client service. Building a community through local engagement can benefit your business. Simplicity in processes can lead to better outcomes. Agency growth often requires adding complexity. Margin is more important than revenue for agency sustainability. 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
- Transcript
#29
June 9 · 39 min
Lessons From One Year of Agency Action
Join Toby and Kurt as they celebrate the first anniversary of The WP Minute’s Agency Action podcast! The guys look back at their past conversations and the importance of listener engagement. Turning their focus to the present, they look at the common struggles agencies face when redesigning their websites and branding, emphasizing the need for clear messaging. You’ll also find thoughts on trusting experts and learning from your experiences. It’s a jam-packed episode that includes plenty of actionable advice. Takeaways: Celebrating a year of podcasting brings reflection on growth. Networking often involves navigating unsolicited pitches. Agencies frequently struggle with internal branding efforts. Trusting experts can lead to better outcomes for businesses. Evaluating results is crucial for learning and growth. SEO and branding can sometimes conflict in strategy. Family time is an essential part of achieving balance. Life interruptions happen daily and require planning around them. Working from home offers flexibility but can lead to distractions. Investing in the right tools is crucial for efficiency. Procrastinating on equipment upgrades can lead to bigger problems. Being open to change can lead to unexpected opportunities. 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
- Transcript
#28
June 2 · 29 min
Finding Purpose in Agency Work
This episode of The WP Minute’s Agency Action podcast is all about the emotional and professional challenges of agency work. Kurt and Toby explore the importance of team dynamics, project management, and effective communication with clients. The guys emphasize the need to establish processes while maintaining flexibility, and the value of professional partnerships in finding purpose and community engagement. The goal is to examine your strengths and weaknesses, then turn them into action! Takeaways: Agency work presents challenges that can be emotionally draining. Look closely at your situation. You may be doing better than you think. Agency owners have the freedom and flexibility to enact positive changes. Our emotions can cloud our judgment when it comes to success. Having the right perspective will help you make better decisions. A great project manager changes businesses. The goal of reflection is to improve your standing with clients. 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
- Transcript
#27
May 26 · 33 min
How Phased Projects Can Grow Your Agency
This episode of The WP Minute’s Agency Action podcast is all about agency growth through project management. Kurt and Toby focus on phased launch approaches, the importance of MVPs, and the iterative nature of project management. They also explore different pricing models, the significance of client relationships, and the challenges of defining maintenance services. You’ll also get useful tidbits on the value of experience in agency work and considerations for growth and investment. It’s everything you need to go bigger and better! Takeaways: Phased launches can help manage client expectations and project timelines. MVPs (Minimum Viable Products) are crucial for getting projects off the ground quickly. Iterative processes allow for continuous improvement and adaptation. Good, better, best pricing models can enhance client engagement. Building strong client relationships is essential for long-term success. Industry experience can lead to better decision-making and pricing strategies. Defining maintenance services can clarify expectations for clients. Value-based pricing is often more effective than hourly rates. Growth should align with personal and professional goals. 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
- Transcript
#26
May 19 · 25 min
The WordPress Hosting Trap: What Agencies Get Wrong
On this episode of The WP Minute’s Agency Action podcast, Kurt and Toby explore the complexities of WordPress hosting. They discuss the various factors that influence the choice of hosting providers, the importance of support, and the implications of DNS management. The guys also offer guidance on upselling hosting and maintenance services, the role of AI in support, and the financial aspects of hosting services. It’s real talk about the challenges agencies face! Want to learn more about choosing the right web host? Check out The WP Minute’s free Hosting Decoded course. Takeaways: Choosing a hosting provider involves evaluating performance, support, and cost. Support options vary widely among hosting companies and impact user experience. Upselling hosting and maintenance services can create recurring revenue for agencies. AI in hosting support is still developing and may not meet all needs. Cost analysis reveals that hosting maintenance can be more expensive than anticipated. Managing plugin weight is essential for website performance. DNS management can enhance website speed and reliability. Agencies should be proactive in discussing hosting options with clients. 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
- Transcript
#25
May 12 · 33 min
Why Agency Life Is Exhausting
On this episode of The WP Minute’s Agency Action podcast, Kurt Von Ahnen and Toby Cryns examine common agency ownership challenges. The guys discuss the impact of exhaustion, the importance of effective communication and leadership, and the necessity of quality assurance processes. They also explore how to improve team dynamics, manage client expectations, and leverage AI tools to enhance agency operations. The conversation emphasizes stakeholder management and the need for clear definitions of project completion to avoid confusion. The bottom line? You need proactive QA measures that build trust. Takeaways: Agency life can be exhausting, especially with family responsibilities. Effective communication and leadership are crucial for agency success. Quality assurance processes need to be prioritized in agency work. Stakeholder management is essential to avoid project confusion. Defining 'done' clearly helps align client expectations. Building a strong internal culture fosters teamwork and buy-in. Leveraging AI tools can streamline agency operations. Agencies must manage their workload to avoid burnout. 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
- Transcript
#24
May 5 · 38 min
Why Your Agency Needs an Email List
On this episode of The WP Minute’s Agency Action podcast, Kurt and Toby discuss the challenges of email spam and marketing, the importance of maintaining client relationships, and the emotional aspects of business interactions. They explore the balance between agency work and personal projects, particularly in e-learning, and emphasize the need for a strong online presence. The guys also riff on crafting effective proposals and recognizing opportunities in client projects. You’ll also find advice for crafting pricing strategies, the importance of upselling, and the role of conversion tracking in agency work. There are also tips for understanding client needs and expanding your services to meet them. Takeaways: Spam and scams are increasingly prevalent in email communication. Maintaining a relevant email list is crucial for effective marketing. Emotional deposits in client relationships can lead to better sales opportunities. E-learning projects require consistent effort and marketing to succeed. A strong online presence is essential for attracting clients. Crafting tailored proposals can enhance client engagement. Balancing agency work with personal projects is challenging but rewarding. Upselling is crucial for maintaining control over client projects. Fear or complacency often prevents agencies from expanding their services. Conversion tracking is more beneficial for agencies than clients. Mental well-being is essential for making sound business decisions. Balancing smaller and larger projects can lead to a healthier business model. 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
- Transcript
#23
April 28 · 28 min
Unlocking Hidden Revenue in Your Agency
On this episode of The WP Minute’s Agency Action podcast, Toby and Kurt challenge the idea that AI is replacing agencies. They argue that many agency owners are holding themselves back by underpricing services and ignoring new opportunities. The guys discuss how agencies can adapt by embracing AI, productizing services, expanding into marketing and SaaS offerings, and building recurring revenue streams. The conversation highlights a major mindset shift from thinking like developers to operating as growth partners. Takeaways: Agencies are more limited by their own assumptions than by AI or market changes. Significant revenue opportunities exist in services many agencies overlook or avoid offering. Productizing services and setting clear boundaries can improve efficiency and profitability. AI enables faster workflows, making lower-cost projects more viable without sacrificing margins. Agency owners should view themselves as marketing and growth partners, not just developers. Recurring revenue streams like SEO, content, support, and ads can outperform one-time project work. Clients often have larger budgets than agencies assume, but only if higher-value options are presented. AI can expand service offerings without requiring additional staff or major overhead. Fragmented services across multiple vendors create missed opportunities for agencies to provide more value. 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
- Transcript
#22
April 21 · 39 min
Agency Acquisitions and Exit Strategies
On this episode of The WP Minute’s Agency Action podcast, Kurt and Toby explore the complexities of acquiring and managing WordPress and agency businesses. The guys explore exit strategies, onboarding, upselling, and the impact of AI on agency operations. They also share insights on evaluating business value, customer satisfaction, and process integration. This episode is packed with practical advice for agency owners considering growth or exit options! Takeaways: The true value of a business lies in its processes and customer relationships, not just its client roster. Exit strategy clarity is the foundation of smart acquisition and divestment decisions. Upselling and onboarding must happen promptly after a client transfer to maintain momentum. Acquiring clients well-matched to your operational capacity is as critical as the acquisition itself. Building automation and AI-driven processes now is essential for managing scale and complex acquisitions. The real asset in business sales is often the team and operational systems, not just the client base or revenue. Growth and acquisition strategies should balance speed with operational readiness. 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
- Transcript

Showing 1–20 of 20 episodes