David Wolfpaw, an expert in the IndieWeb movement, discusses how WordPress can help keep the web independent. They explore the philosophy behind the IndieWeb, the benefits it offers, and the plugins and tools available for WordPress users to embrace it. Topics include self-hosting, data portability, eliminating double posting, easier engagement with plugins, and building an open web.
The IndieWeb movement aims to keep the web independent by providing users with more control over their own websites and social media, allowing them to disconnect from centralized, third-party services.
WordPress users can embrace the principles of the IndieWeb community by using the IndieWeb plugin, which offers features such as web mentions and syndication links that increase engagement and control over one's own content.
Deep dives
The Philosophy of the Indie Web
The episode delves into the concept of the Indie Web, which is a movement of web designers and users who are creating a non-corporate web that celebrates individuality and freedom of expression. The Indie Web aims to provide users with more control over their own websites and social media, allowing them to build sites for personal or business purposes that are disconnected from centralized, third-party services. The episode features an interview with David Wolfpaw, a website mechanic and WordPress contributor, who shares his experiences and insights.
Joining the Indie Web with WordPress
The episode discusses how WordPress users can become part of the Indie Web community and embrace its principles. The Indie Web plugin is highlighted as a valuable tool for WordPress users, as it provides a collection of functionality from various plugins that facilitate Indie Web practices. Two key features of the Indie Web plugin are web mentions, which allow users to notify other websites of activity on their own sites, and syndication links, which enable cross-posting and traffic generation between different platforms. The episode emphasizes the benefits of these tools in increasing engagement and control over one's own content.
Keeping the Web Weird and Independent
The episode explores the importance of keeping the web weird and independent, harking back to the early days of the web when experimentation and creativity were more prevalent. The Indie Web is presented as a way to break free from the consolidation of the web into corporate silos and regain individual control and expression. The episode emphasizes that the Indie Web creates a healthier and more inclusive community, especially for marginalized individuals who may not feel welcome on centralized platforms. The discussion highlights the need for more personal control and the negative impact of advertising-dominated web platforms. The episode concludes with optimism about the potential of the Indie Web to create a decentralized web that feels familiar yet offers greater freedom and ownership.
How can WordPress help keep the web weird? In this episode of Press This, we talk with David Wolfpaw about the IndieWeb, a people-focused alternative to the “corporate web” that aims to keep the web independent. We talk about the philosophy behind the IndieWeb movement, how it can benefit the web for everyone, and what plugins and tools WordPress users have to take advantage of it.