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The WP Minute+

Matt Medeiros

For long-form interviews, news, and commentary about the WordPress ecosystem. This is the companion show to The WP Minute, your favorite 5-minutes of WordPress news every week.

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  • 31 episodes
  • weekly
  • Avg 37 min
  • English

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Episodes 31

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  • #163
    July 6 · 40 min

    How To Teach WordPress Like a Pro

    Thanks Pressable for supporting the show! Get your special hosting deal at https://pressable.com/wpminute Become a WP Minute Supporter & Slack member at https://thewpminute.com/support Teaching is the focus of this episode of The WP Minute+ podcast. Allie Nimmons joined Eric to share her tips for helping others learn WordPress. Allie’s journey has been unique, moving from studying theater to becoming a web designer. She leaned on those experiences to teach others via a series of LinkedIn Learning courses and one-on-one coaching. Tune in to get an inside look at Allie’s teaching methods and her advice for technically-minded professionals working with clients. Takeaways: Allie's background in theater enhances her public speaking skills. Clients often feel intimidated by WordPress; empathy is key. Identifying common client questions can improve teaching methods. Creating courses requires understanding the audience's perspective. Clients often struggle with maintaining design consistency on their sites. Page builders can be overwhelming due to the multitude of options available. It's crucial to educate clients on the differences between WordPress.com and self-hosted WordPress.org. Training should start early in the client relationship, even during the proposal phase. Understanding a client's learning style can enhance the training process. Providing ongoing support and reassurance helps build client confidence. Documentation and video resources can be beneficial for client training. Building a strong relationship with clients can lead to referrals and repeat business. Clients need to feel comfortable asking questions without fear of judgment. Investing time in client education can lead to better website management and satisfaction. Important Links: Connect with Allie: Website | LinkedIn Web Pro Geeks WordPress Essentials Course on LinkedIn Learning The WP Minute+ Podcast: thewpminute.com/subscribe ★ Support this podcast ★

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  • #164
    June 29 · 51 min

    Hosting Providers Have Become Strategic Partners

    Thanks Pressable for supporting the show! Get your special hosting deal at https://pressable.com/wpminute Become a WP Minute Supporter & Slack member at https://thewpminute.com/support JetHost’s Metodi Drenovski joins Matt on this episode of The WP Minute+ podcast to discuss all things hosting. Metodi shares the importance of understanding customer needs and AI’s role in providing support. He also offers insight into educating users and the opportunities for agencies within the WordPress hosting ecosystem. In addition, Metodi tackles the competition between WooCommerce and Shopify, AI’s fitness for site building, and the role hosting companies play in the landscape. It’s an episode packed with valuable perspective! Note: JetHost is a Pillar Sponsor of The WP Minute. Takeaways: JetHost is a key player in the WordPress hosting market. Understanding customer needs is crucial for hosting companies. AI can assist but should not replace human support. Educating customers about hosting limitations is challenging. Agencies can thrive by adapting to new technologies. WooCommerce needs better integration with WordPress. Shopify's ease of use is a significant advantage. Users often realize the limitations of their AI-built solutions. WordPress may become more appealing after a site owner experiments with AI. Agencies need reliable hosting support to avoid crises. AI tools can lead to unexpected costs and complexities. Trust and communication are key in the hosting industry. Important Links: JetHost Connect with Metodi: LinkedIn The WP Minute+ Podcast: thewpminute.com/subscribe ★ Support this podcast ★

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  • #162
    June 22 · 32 min

    From Plugin Security to Better AI Workflows with Zack Katz

    Thanks Pressable for supporting the show! Get your special hosting deal at https://pressable.com/wpminute Become a WP Minute Supporter & Slack member at https://thewpminute.com/support On this episode of The WP Minute+ podcast, GravityKit’s Zack Katz joins Eric to discuss his company’s forward-thinking features, including cryptographic signing on plugin updates and the new Block MCP tool. Zack shares that the recent plugin supply chain attacks inspired a more secure method for product distribution – potentially the first for a commercial plugin. Meanwhile, Block MCP fills a gap in the current WordPress AI landscape by working within the native block structure, rather than raw HTML. This episode provides you with the inside scoop on making WordPress safer and more user-friendly. Takeaways: Cryptographic signing ensures plugin updates are secure. Supply chain attacks are a real concern for plugin developers. GravityKit is the first to implement cryptographic signing in WordPress plugins. The Block MCP tool addresses frustrations with existing MCPs. AI can significantly enhance the editing experience in WordPress. Granular editing is simplified with the Block MCP tool. The Block MCP tool can automatically identify and use the best blocks. Internal linking can be improved using AI with the Block MCP. The plugin allows for non-destructive edits and easy rollbacks. Important Links: GravityKit products now give you a stronger reason to trust what you install Introducing Block MCP: the WordPress MCP we built because nothing else worked Block MCP: GitHub | Plugin The WP Minute+ Podcast: thewpminute.com/subscribe ★ Support this podcast ★

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  • #161
    June 8 · 44 min

    Can WordPress Keep Up With AI?

    Thanks Pressable for supporting the show! Get your special hosting deal at https://pressable.com/wpminute Become a WP Minute Supporter & Slack member at https://thewpminute.com/support This episode of The WP Minute+ podcast features Matt’s chat with Beaver Builder’s Robby McCullough. They discuss the evolution of Beaver Builder, including its recent AI integrations. You’ll find takes on the current sentiment within the WordPress community, the importance of open source, and how to adapt in the age of AI. Robby also shares his thoughts on user expectations and the future of web design. Takeaways: Beaver Builder is evolving with AI integration. The Assistant Pro plugin is still operational but has been integrated into Beaver Builder. The WordPress community often engages in ‘drama farming’ with negative narratives. AI is being explored in WordPress core, showing a new direction. Open-source ethos remains strong in the WordPress community. User expectations for AI tools need to be managed effectively. AI can enhance design but should not replace human creativity. The baseline for web design is improving compared to the past. Beaver Builder aims to provide a cohesive design experience with AI. Important Links: Beaver Builder: Twitter/X | Website Connect with Robby: Twitter/X The WP Minute+ Podcast: thewpminute.com/subscribe ★ Support this podcast ★

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  • #160
    June 1 · 34 min

    Inside the Surge of WordPress Supply Chain Attacks

    Thanks Pressable for supporting the show! Get your special hosting deal at https://pressable.com/wpminute Become a WP Minute Supporter & Slack member at https://thewpminute.com/support On this episode of The WP Minute+ podcast, Anchor Hosting owner Austin Ginder joins Eric to discuss the recent surge in supply chain attacks affecting WordPress plugins. Austin shares his experiences managing security for thousands of WordPress sites and how AI has transformed his approach to identifying vulnerabilities. It all led him to launch WP Beacon, a tool designed to uncover compromised plugins and enhance security measures. This episode is packed with actionable advice for keeping your WordPress websites safe and secure. Takeaways: Supply chain attacks are increasingly common in WordPress plugins. AI is revolutionizing the way developers approach security. Regular code audits are essential for maintaining site security. WP Beacon aims to identify and report compromised plugins. The cleanup process for hacked sites can be complex and challenging. Security measures must evolve to keep pace with AI advancements. Collaboration with security teams is crucial for effective responses. Identifying patterns in compromised plugins can help prevent future attacks. Site owners should prioritize vulnerability scanning and malware detection. The future of WordPress security relies on proactive measures and AI integration. Important Links: WP Beacon The Great Security Reset of 2026 Connect with Austin: LinkedIn | Twitter/X | Website The WP Minute+ Podcast: thewpminute.com/subscribe ★ Support this podcast ★

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  • #159
    May 25 · 35 min

    Why Passion Still Matters in WordPress Products

    Thanks Pressable for supporting the show! Get your special hosting deal at https://pressable.com/wpminute Become a WP Minute Supporter & Slack member at https://thewpminute.com/support On this episode of The WP Minute+ podcast, Eric sits down with Marcus Burnette, founder of WellPlayedWP, a new plugin membership service, and The WP World (a media partner of The WP Minute). Marcus fills us in on his journey in the WordPress community and the unique business model of WellPlayedWP. He shares insights into the included plugins, their use cases, and the importance of customer feedback in shaping the service. Marcus demonstrates his passion for the WordPress community and building useful tools. In all, it’s the same spirit that brought many of us to WordPress in the first place! Takeaways: WellPlayedWP is a plugin membership service offering a library of niche plugins. The service aims to simplify plugin management with a single license for multiple plugins. Marcus emphasizes the importance of side projects for learning and growth. The target audience for WellPlayedWP is primarily agencies and freelancers. Pricing strategies were carefully considered to ensure affordability and value. Customer feedback will play a crucial role in the development of new features. The plugins are designed to solve specific problems faced by users. The conversation reflects the passion and community spirit within the WordPress ecosystem. Important Links: WellPlayedWP The WP World Connect with Marcus: LinkedIn | Twitter/X | Website The WP Minute+ Podcast: thewpminute.com/subscribe ★ Support this podcast ★

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  • #158
    May 18 · 21 min

    Going In-Depth With Web Pioneer Jeffrey Zeldman: Part 2

    Thanks Pressable for supporting the show! Get your special hosting deal at https://pressable.com/wpminute Become a WP Minute Supporter & Slack member at https://thewpminute.com/support This episode of The WP Minute+ podcast features part II of Eric’s conversation with Jeffrey Zeldman. This time around, Jeffrey discusses his transition to working at Automattic. He shares thoughts on company culture, the role of WordPress in maintaining an open web, and the challenges posed by AI in the digital landscape. Jeffrey also emphasizes the importance of accessibility and the need for continuous adaptation in the ever-changing web environment. Takeaways: Jeffrey says that working at Automattic offers a supportive and innovative environment. WordPress is a powerful tool for web creators. The future of the web is intertwined with AI advancements. Privacy concerns are paramount in the age of AI. The web's survival depends on adapting to new technologies. Community and collaboration are still essential in the tech industry. Important Links: Jeffrey Zeldman Presents A List Apart The Web Standards Project Connect with Jeffrey: Bluesky | LinkedIn The WP Minute+ Podcast: thewpminute.com/subscribe ★ Support this podcast ★

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  • #157
    May 11 · 35 min

    Going In-Depth With Web Pioneer Jeffrey Zeldman: Part 1

    Thanks Pressable for supporting the show! Get your special hosting deal at https://pressable.com/wpminute Become a WP Minute Supporter & Slack member at https://thewpminute.com/support On this episode of The WP Minute+ podcast, Eric sits down with Jeffrey Zeldman, a pioneer in web design and co-founder of the Web Standards Project and A List Apart. They discuss his journey into web design, the challenges of early web development, the birth of web standards, and the evolution of CSS and accessibility. Jeffrey shares insights on the collaborative nature of the web and the importance of creating a more inclusive digital space. This is the first in a two-part series. Takeaways: Jeffrey initially disliked web design but grew to love it. The early web lacked standards, leading to chaotic development. Jeffrey’s experience with the Batman Forever website is a prime example. Jeffrey played a key role in the Web Standards Project. The introduction of CSS revolutionized web design. Accessibility became a crucial focus in web development. Collaboration among developers was essential for the adoption of standards. The educational component of web design was lacking in the early days. The early web design community shared knowledge freely. The push for web standards was akin to the open-source movement. Important Links: Jeffrey Zeldman Presents A List Apart The Web Standards Project Batman Forever website: Web Design Museum Connect with Jeffrey: Bluesky | LinkedIn CSS Zen Garden The WP Minute+ Podcast: thewpminute.com/subscribe ★ Support this podcast ★

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  • #156
    May 4 · 31 min

    The Keys To Building a WordPress-Focused SAAS

    Thanks Pressable for supporting the show! Get your special hosting deal at https://pressable.com/wpminute Become a WP Minute Supporter & Slack member at https://thewpminute.com/support On this episode of The WP Minute+ podcast, Eric chats with Matt Schwartz, founder of CheckView, a SaaS focused on automated testing. The discussion focuses on challenges and insights of starting a SaaS product in the WordPress ecosystem. Matt fills us in on his agency roots, the decision to build a SaaS over a plugin, market research, customer insights, and advice for aspiring founders. Matt’s story is a great inspiration for anyone who wants to build a product from the ground up! Takeaways: CheckView was created to address checkout issues in e-commerce experienced by Matt’s agency clients. The decision to build a SaaS was based on minimizing resource use on client sites. Market research involved talking to agencies and validating the product idea. The challenges of WordPress-specific SaaS include managing plugin compatibility. Customer support is crucial for addressing user issues and misunderstandings. Founders should validate their market and customer needs thoroughly. SaaS products may take time to break even financially. Education about automated testing is essential for agency owners. The future of SaaS will involve more testing and trust in technology. Important Links: CheckView Inspry (Matt’s Agency) Connect with Matt: LinkedIn The WP Minute+ Podcast: thewpminute.com/subscribe ★ Support this podcast ★

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  • #155
    April 27 · 37 min

    Finding AI’s Place in Web Hosting

    Thanks Pressable for supporting the show! Get your special hosting deal at https://pressable.com/wpminute Become a WP Minute Supporter & Slack member at https://thewpminute.com/support On this episode of The WP Minute+ podcast, Matt Medeiros chats with Matt Telfer, the Marketing Director at 20i, a web hosting company. They discuss Telfer's role at 20i, the dynamics between marketing and sales teams, and how marketing strategies have evolved in the hosting industry, particularly with the rise of AI. Matt shares his insights on the importance of human interaction in marketing, the launch of 20i's AI assistant, and the unique aspects of the UK hosting market. They also explore reseller hosting opportunities, customer feedback, and the future of hosting technology. Takeaways: 20i focuses on both WordPress and other hosting solutions. The sales team at 20i emphasizes honesty and customer satisfaction. Organic and paid search are the primary marketing drivers for 20i. AI is changing the landscape of marketing and customer expectations. Human interaction is crucial for building brand credibility. 20i launched an AI assistant to enhance customer support. Reseller hosting is a viable option for agencies to generate recurring revenue. Customer feedback is integral to 20i's development process. Cultural differences exist between UK and US hosting markets. Important Links: 20i.com G2 Trustpilot Connect with Matt Telfer: LinkedIn The WP Minute’s Hosting Decoded Course The WP Minute+ Podcast: thewpminute.com/subscribe ★ Support this podcast ★

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  • #153
    April 20 · 37 min

    Managing Your Vibe Coding Junk Drawer

    Thanks Pressable for supporting the show! Get your special hosting deal at https://pressable.com/wpminute Become a WP Minute Supporter & Slack member at https://thewpminute.com/support On this episode of The WP Minute+ podcast, Eric and Matt are joined by Stranger Studios co-founder Kim Coleman to discuss the pros and cons of vibe coding. We tackle the question of how to generate and maintain code responsibly, with tips to help you employ best practices. You’ll also find real-world use cases for improving your customer support and development workflow through AI. Don’t be overwhelmed by your vibe-coding junk drawer! We have the solutions to help you leverage AI without the headaches. Takeaways: The AI junk drawer concept accelerates learning but produces runaway complexity without discipline. Vibe coding as a mental model transforms the creative process from a solo effort to a collaborative, iterative skill-building activity. Always test and review AI outputs to ensure security and real-world value. Maintain an organized repository to enhance resilience and prevent burnout from chasing every new AI feature. Implement low-risk releases and actively seek user feedback to ensure sustainability and trust. Focus on high-level design and project frameworks to promote standardization and maintainability. Selling AI-assisted products requires balancing automation with human touch to preserve trust and relational depth. Managing multiple AI platforms and tools calls for adaptive memory solutions and flexible agents. Important Links: Stranger Studios automem.ai Connect with Kim: Instagram | LinkedIn | Kim's Blog The WP Minute+ Podcast: thewpminute.com/subscribe ★ Support this podcast ★

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Showing 21–31 of 31 episodes