In this episode Tammie Lister, who has a deep history with WordPress and themes, discusses the evolution of WordPress theming, the concept of Full Site Editing, and its adoption challenges. She highlights the importance of experimentation and adaptability in themes, the underestimated impact of block themes and theme.json, and envisions a future where themes might be simplified into more flexible design systems. Tammie emphasizes the gradual adoption of new technologies and the potential for more intuitive user interfaces influenced by AI. If you're curious about the current state of WordPress theming, the impact of emerging technologies on the platform, or how to infuse more creativity into your web projects, this episode is for you.

On the podcast today we have David Darke, co-founder of Atomic Smash, a Bristol-based digital agency specialising in WordPress and WooCommerce optimisation. Since its inception in 2010, the agency has grown from two to twenty employees, overcoming challenges such as skepticism about their youth and the complexities of scaling. Darke talks about the importance of networking, strategic hiring, and business coaching to navigate growth phases. His current focus includes technical oversight and client interactions rather than hands-on coding. The conversation also explores the role of AI and SEO in their future service offerings as they pivot towards becoming strategic partners for client success. Whether you're an aspiring freelancer, an agency owner looking to grow, or simply passionate about WordPress, this episode is for you.

Elena Brescacin, an accessibility consultant from Italy and a prominent advocate in the WordPress community, shares her insights on web accessibility challenges. She discusses the Block Editor's pros and cons, including the need for better search functions and multilingual support. Elena highlights her experiences with the internet and accessibility issues in real-world events. Despite frustrations, she emphasizes the importance of education and awareness in creating more inclusive digital spaces for everyone, particularly for users with disabilities.

On the podcast today we have Andrew Palmer. Andrew's journey with WordPress started almost two decades ago after transitioning from Joomla. He went on to make significant strides in the community, co-founding Elegant Marketplace and investing in ventures like Atarim and Bertha AI. In this episode, we talk about the intricacies of working within the WordPress ecosystem, comparing the free and commercial sides. Andrew shares his thoughts on the challenges of financially compensating event contributors and the importance of non-financial contributions, such as time. He discusses the absence of a structured regulatory body in the web development industry, and how he thinks this can impact trust and credibility. If you've ever thought about the complexities and commercial dynamics of the WordPress ecosystem, this episode is for you.

On the podcast today we have Corey Maass, and he's here to talk about the role of social media, specifically regarding images you share. He highlights tools like his WordPress plugin OMGIMG, which simplifies the creation of shareable images. We also explore evolving image formats, the WordPress Media Library, and technological innovations, including Google’s in-browser video manipulation. He emphasises the importance of custom social images and compares strategies for YouTube thumbnails. The episode underscores the necessity of efficient image handling for enhancing online engagement and credibility. If you're a WordPress user looking to streamline your workflow and boost your social media game, this episode is for you.

In this insightful discussion, Stephen Dumba, a Ugandan teacher and WordPress community leader, shares his passion for empowering youth through technology. He discusses Uganda's new ICT curriculum, making computer education compulsory for older students. Stephen highlights his transition to WordPress, emphasizing its user-friendliness and community support. He also talks about training initiatives for teachers and students, organizing Meetups, and overcoming financial hurdles to promote large-scale tech events. His vision is all about equipping the next generation with vital web development skills.

On the podcast today we have Steve Burge. Steve is experienced in building and marketing WordPress plugins and he’s here to share his journey, especially his recent ventures into the SaaS (Software as a Service) landscape with his latest project, Logtivity. We talk about how SaaS development differs from plugin development. Being responsible for the full-stack, having to find your niche and new community, the need to be on hand 24/7 if things go wrong. As someone who's navigated this challenging, yet rewarding, path, Steve offers good advice for anyone looking to make a similar transition. If you’re a WordPress developer eyeing the SaaS space, or simply curious about the differences between plugin and SaaS development, this episode is for you.

On the podcast today we have Fränk Klein. Fränk is a principal engineer at Human Made and brings a wealth of experience from his extensive history with WordPress. Fränk provides a comprehensive breakdown of the Gutenberg project's four phases: content editing, site customization, collaborative editing, and multilingual capabilities. We explore how FSE is transforming WordPress by integrating new editing tools and modernising the admin interface, moving the platform from its classic roots to a more dynamic, block-based editing environment. If you're keen on understanding how full site editing and other WordPress innovations can enhance your projects, and wish to gain insights into the evolving WordPress landscape, this episode is for you.

On the podcast today we have Calvin Alkan. Calvin has been in the WordPress space for the past four to five years, with a focus on security research. His company’s security product, called Fortress, has become a widely used tool for many hosting companies. Recently, Calvin and his team ventured into developing a new product, CommandUI, and it’s this plugin which is the topic under discussion today. We talk about CommandUI's functionalities, including its ability to help quickly navigate around the WordPress admin UI. It executes WordPress tasks using keyboard shortcuts, and Calvin explains how the tool helps manage your website efficiently. If you’re curious about how a new tool changes the way that you work with WordPress, and how a new product can become popular quickly, this episode is for you.

On the podcast today we have Damon Cook and Seth Rubenstein, and we're here to talk about the Interactivity API. We explore its benefits for building seamless interactive websites, how it enhances both the front-end user experience and backend editorial processes, and its integration with WordPress Core. Topics include practical applications, performance improvements, and accessibility considerations. Both Damon and Seth emphasise the importance of the community's contribution to the project's development and encourage more developers to adopt and explore the API. If you're intrigued by improving your WordPress site’s interactivity and performance, this episode is for you.