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On this episode of The WP Minute+ podcast, Matt Medeiros hosts a panel discussion of WordPress predictions for 2026. Panelists Raquel Manriquez, Kurt Von Ahnen, and Eric Karkovack cover topics such as the restructuring of WordCamps, the rise of plugin suites, the impact of AI in hosting, and the future of community events. They also examine the implications of ongoing legal battles and share rapid-fire predictions, highlighting the evolving landscape of WordPress and its community.

Takeaways:

• A restructuring of WordCamps might take hold in 2026.
• The community is seeing a push for more alternative WordPress events.
• AI will play a significant role in differentiating hosting companies.
• The rise of plugin suites may lead to agency dynamics changing.
• Legal battles may impact the direction of WordPress and its branding.
• The importance of community and user experience in WordPress is emphasized.
• AI could lead to a major shift in how users interact with WordPress.
• The panel expresses mixed feelings about the future of Facebook and OpenAI.
• The need for a cohesive community approach to WordPress is highlighted.

Important Links:

• Connect with our panelists on LinkedIn:
  Matt | Raquel | Kurt | Eric
• The WP Minute+ Podcast: thewpminute.com/subscribe

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 Karkovack speaks with freelance web designer Cami McNamara. Cami discusses her journey into web design, the importance of client relationships, and how to adapt to changes in the industry. She also shares insights from her newsletter, Web Designer Habits, and discusses effective business practices, self-care routines, and the significance of communication with clients. Cami emphasizes the value of personal connections in freelancing and offers practical tips for managing a web design business.

Takeaways:

• Cami aims to be a hero for her clients.
• Her journey into web design began with a desire to create a website for sharing pictures of her child.
• She has maintained a strong client base even during downturns.
• Cami offers care plan services and manages over 200 websites.
• Fostering personal relationships with clients is key to retaining them.
• AI tools have positively impacted Cami’s business operations.
• Cami emphasizes the importance of small habits for productivity.
• Annual payment plans make bookkeeping more efficient for freelancers.
• Self-care practices like daily walks help manage stress.
• Offering free strategy sessions can lead to new projects.

Important Links:

• WebCami
• Web Designer Habits
• Connect with Cami: Bluesky | LinkedIn
• The WP Minute+ Podcast: thewpminute.com/subscribe

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 Karkovack welcomes Brad Williams, co-founder of Web Dev Studios. Brad details his journey in the WordPress community, the evolution of web development, and the impact of AI on agency life. They discuss the importance of adapting to new technologies, the development of plugins like Theme Switcher Pro, and how agencies can leverage AI tools to enhance efficiency and client satisfaction. Brad shares insights on navigating client expectations and the future of AI in web development, emphasizing the need for agencies to stay ahead of the curve and continuously innovate.

Takeaways:

• Brad Williams reflects on nearly 18 years of running Web Dev Studios.
• Theme Switcher Pro allows for multiple themes on a single WordPress site.
• AI tools are essential for improving efficiency in web development.
• Clients are increasingly interested in AI capabilities for their websites.
• Accessibility automation through AI can enhance website compliance.
• The evolution of WordPress has transformed how agencies operate.
• Understanding client pain points is crucial for agency success.
• AI should be viewed as a helper, not a replacement for developers.
• Continuous learning and adaptation are key in the tech industry.

Important Links:

• Web Dev Studios
• Theme Switcher Pro
• Connect with Brad Williams:
  Bluesky | LinkedIn | Twitter/X
• The WP Minute+ Podcast: thewpminute.com/subscribe