

WP-Tonic | WordPress | SaaS | Bootstrap SaaS | Startups
Jonathan Denwood & Kurt von Ahnen
WP-Tonic is a podcast for WordPress professionals, Bootstrap SaaS startup entrepreneurs, and anyone looking to build a business online.
We cover a large number of areas with our main show. We interview creative WordPress and startup entrepreneurs, plus online experts who share insights to help you build your online business.
Jonathan Denwood and Kurt von Ahnen host and produce the WP-Tonic podcast, which is one of the longest-running WordPress podcasts. Each episode brings you valuable insights with one goal: to help you generate more income and impact through online businesses.
We cover a large number of areas with our main show. We interview creative WordPress and startup entrepreneurs, plus online experts who share insights to help you build your online business.
Jonathan Denwood and Kurt von Ahnen host and produce the WP-Tonic podcast, which is one of the longest-running WordPress podcasts. Each episode brings you valuable insights with one goal: to help you generate more income and impact through online businesses.
Episodes
Mentioned books

May 21, 2025 • 55min
961 WP-Tonic Show:The Role of WordPress Professionals & Agencies Is Shifting In 2025
961 WP-Tonic Show:The Role of WordPress Professionals & Agencies Is Shifting In 2025
The Role of WordPress Professionals & Agencies Is Shifting In 2025
The role of WordPress professionals & agencies is shifting in 2025—learn the key trends shaping the future of web development.
In 2025, the landscape for WordPress professionals and agencies is evolving rapidly. This video delves into the emerging trends and challenges that are reshaping their roles, from the rise of AI-driven tools to the increasing demand for specialized services. Discover how these changes affect project management, client relationships, and overall business strategies. Don’t miss out on insights that could redefine your approach.
With Special Guest Kimberly Lipari CEO of Valet.io - https://valet.io/
----------------Sponsors------------------
Omnisend - https://bit.ly/3VskGBT
LfiterLMS - https://bit.ly/3VskGBT
Convesio - https://bit.ly/3VskGBT
----------------------------------- Follow & Connect With Us -----------------------------------
▬▬ LEARN FROM US ▬▬
► Our course is" Are You Looking To Build Your Membership Website Quickly And EASILY On WordPress?"
https://www.wp-tonic.com/course/
▬▬ LET'S CONNECT ▬▬
► FaceBook Free Group "The Membership Machine Show" Group Page
https://www.facebook.com/groups/membershipmachine
► Podcast "The Membership Machine Show"
https://f0k0.short.gy/oF9q9f
► X (Twitter)
https://x.com/wptonic_com
▬▬ SPECIAL DEALS ON THE TOOLS WE USE TO BUILD (ONLINE COURSES) ▬▬
https://www.wp-tonic.com/deals/
▬▬ ABOUT THIS CHANNEL ▬▬
We discuss everything connected to building a successful membership/community website in 2024, from the right technology to using up-to-date digital marketing techniques.
//CONTACT:
For business inquiries ONLY, please use this email: support@wptonic.com
-----------------------------------------Hosts of The Show -----------------------------------
Hosts of The Show
Jonathan Denwood & Kurt von Ahnen of MananaNoMas
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathandenwood/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/kurtvonahnen/
https://manananomas.com/
@MananaNoMas
------------------------------------------- Sponsors of The Show -----------------------------------

May 14, 2025 • 55min
960 WP-Tonic Show: Is Online Marketing Dead In The Age of Google AI?
With Special Guest Mike Stott of Automattic, the founder of the pro plugin "Social Gallery" , the plugin and theme shop "Epic Plugins", and Zero BS CRM, which was sold to Automattic in 2019.
Is online marketing dead in the age of Google AI? Discover how to adapt and thrive in this new digital landscape today.
In this insightful show, we delve into the question: Is online marketing dead in the era of Google AI snippets? With the rise of AI-driven search results transforming how users engage with content, we explore the implications for marketers and businesses. Join us as we analyze trends, expert opinions, and strategies to adapt in this evolving landscape.
----------------Sponsors------------------
Omnisend - https://bit.ly/3VskGBT
LfiterLMS - https://bit.ly/3VskGBT
Convesio - https://bit.ly/3VskGBT

Apr 29, 2025 • 1h 17min
#959- WP-Tonic This Month in WordPress & Tech Round Table Show
WordPress and tech stories. Get the insights you need now.
Discover the month's must-know WordPress and tech stories in our latest video! We explore key updates, fascinating innovations, and expert commentary that are vital for anyone involved in the digital realm. Our engaging discussion keeps you informed and inspired as you navigate your tech journey. Don’t wait—watch now to catch up on what matters most in WordPress and technology.
With Special Guest Robert DeVore
#1 - WP-Townhall Selling Websites to Low-Budget Clients - Kevin Geary vs Robert DeVore
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gNtjJdYH7OY
#2 - Google has illegal advertising monopoly, judge rules & Meta's Zuckerberg disputes US antitrust case in trial testimony
This is the second antitrust case Google has lost in a year, after it was ruled the company also had a monopoly on online search.
https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c3674nl7g74o
CEO Mark Zuckerberg took the stand on Monday at a high-stakes trial in Washington over U.S. antitrust enforcers' claims that the company spent billions of dollars to acquire Instagram and WhatsApp to fend off Facebook competitors.
https://www.reuters.com/sustainability/boards-policy-regulation/facebook-owner-meta-faces-existential-threat-trial-over-instagram-whatsapp-2025-04-14/
#3 - The Boss Attempts to Unblock
https://x.com/photomatt/status/1914107987985080654
I tried to unblock all accounts today, but the X interface is broken. I'll figure out how to unblock everyone. I'm removing all my blocks; it may take a few days. Any block that remains is a bug, not a statement.
#4 - Why Does Everyone Hate Katy Perry So Much?.
https://www.thedailybeast.com/obsessed/why-does-everyone-hate-katy-perry-after-blue-origin-space-flight/
Jen & Peter BURY 'Oprah's Friend' Gayle King For JUSTIFYING Blue Origin's Publicity Stunt Flight
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SduJz7X03-k
https://nypost.com/2025/04/16/media/gayle-king-responds-to-backlash-over-all-female-blue-origin-flight/
King responded to the backlash in comments to Entertainment Tonight on Tuesday, where she compared the Blue Origin flight to the historic space flight taken by American astronaut Alan Shepard in 1961. “Have you been?” King scolded critics.5 days ago
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SduJz7X03-k
#5 - Why WordPress Maintenance Could Be Key for Your Freelance Business
https://thewpminute.com/why-wordpress-maintenance-could-be-key-for-your-freelance-business/
#6 - California cities are trying to figure out how fake voices mocking Musk and Zuckerberg were added to crosswalks
https://www.businessinsider.com/elon-musk-mark-zuckerberg-ai-voices-crosswalks-california-hack-2025-4

Apr 25, 2025 • 55min
958 WP-Tonic Show: We Discuss The Very Changing Face of SEO in 2025
We Discuss The Very Changing Face of SEO in 2025
Stay ahead of the game! Discover the crucial SEO trends for 2025 and learn how to adapt your strategy for success./Users/jonathandenwood/Desktop/Screenshot 1.png
With Special Guest Jono AldersonScreenshot 1.png/Users/jonathandenwood/Desktop/Screenshot 1.pngThis video delves into the rapidly evolving landscape of SEO as we approach 2025. Join us as we explore emerging trends, algorithm shifts, and the impact of AI on search engine optimization strategies. We'll provide insights from industry experts and practical tips to help you stay ahead in this dynamic field. Don't miss out on vital information—watch the video now to future-proof your SEO efforts.
Jono Alderson
https://www.jonoalderson.com
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonoalderson/
@jonoalderson
----------------Sponsors------------------
Omnisend - https://bit.ly/3VskGBT
LfiterLMS - https://bit.ly/3VskGBT
Convesio - https://bit.ly/3VskGBT
----------------------------------- Follow & Connect With Us -----------------------------------
▬▬ LEARN FROM US ▬▬
► Our course is" Are You Looking To Build Your Membership Website Quickly And EASILY On WordPress?"
https://www.wp-tonic.com/course/
▬▬ LET'S CONNECT ▬▬
► FaceBook Free Group "The Membership Machine Show" Group Page
https://www.facebook.com/groups/membershipmachine
► Podcast "The Membership Machine Show"
https://f0k0.short.gy/oF9q9f
► X (Twitter)
https://x.com/wptonic_com
▬▬ SPECIAL DEALS ON THE TOOLS WE USE TO BUILD (ONLINE COURSES) ▬▬
https://www.wp-tonic.com/deals/
▬▬ ABOUT THIS CHANNEL ▬▬
We discuss everything connected to building a successful membership/community website in 2024, from the right technology to using up-to-date digital marketing techniques.
//CONTACT:
For business inquiries ONLY, please use this email: support@wptonic.com
-----------------------------------------Hosts of The Show -----------------------------------

Apr 15, 2025 • 57min
957 WP-Tonic Show: Will AI Destroy Freelancers and WordPress Agencies
Will AI Destroy Freelancers and WordPress Agencies
The rise of AI: Is it the end for WordPress freelancers and agencies? Uncover the truth behind the hype. Click to find out.
In this thought-provoking video, we explore the potential impact of artificial intelligence on freelancers and WordPress agencies. As AI technology advances, many wonder whether it will enhance or threaten their livelihoods. We delve into real-world examples, expert opinions, and future predictions to provide a comprehensive overview of the landscape. Don’t miss out on this essential discussion—watch the video now to understand what’s at stake.
With Special Guest Spencer Forman
Spencer Forman Founder of WPlaunchify
https://wplaunchify.com
-----------------------------------------Hosts of The Show -----------------------------------
Hosts of The Show
Jonathan Denwood & Kurt von Ahnen of MananaNoMas
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathandenwood/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/kurtvonahnen/
https://manananomas.com/
@MananaNoMas

Apr 9, 2025 • 57min
956 WP-Tonic Show: Online Marketing Tactics That Can Work For Plugins & SaaS In 2025
Online Marketing Tactics That Can Work For SaaS In 2025
With Special Guest Lars Lofgren
@LarsLofgren
https://larslofgren.com/
Discover the most effective online marketing tactics for SaaS in 2025. Learn how to boost your growth and stay ahead of the competition.
This insightful show explores the most effective online marketing tactics tailored specifically for Software as a Service (SaaS) businesses in 2025. Discover innovative strategies that leverage emerging technologies and consumer trends to enhance your marketing efforts. From personalized content to AI-driven analytics, we cover it all. Don’t miss out on the tactics that can elevate your SaaS business.
#1— Lars, can you give some more information about the beginning of your career working with SaaS companies like Kissmetris, Dropbox, and Evernote?
#2— In your recent interviews, you talked about how Google has recently totally decimated a lot of SEO strategies and how Reddit and similar properties seem to be the name of the game in the first quarter of 2025. I wonder if you have any additional thoughts on this.
#3— Google seems to be between a rock and a hard place regarding search. However, is the situation for them as bad as many online influencers have been saying? Rand Fishkin from SparkToro has been sharing some interesting insights. What do you think?
https://sparktoro.com/blog/new-research-google-search-grew-20-in-2024-receives-373x-more-searches-than-chatgpt/
https://sparktoro.com/blog/new-research-how-often-do-americans-search-google-which-search-verticals-do-they-use/
#4— What are your thoughts on (BoFu) Bottom of The Funnel SEO for 2025 compared to traditional keyword focus strategies?
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MQLGFjS_VZ4
#5— Are there any AI tools or services you have been using remotely or regularly that you would like to share with the WP-Tonic tribe?
#6—If you had your time machine (H. G. Wells) and could travel back to the beginning of your career, what advice would you give?
----------------Sponsors------------------
Omnisend - https://bit.ly/3VskGBT
LfiterLMS - https://bit.ly/3VskGBT
Convesio - https://bit.ly/3VskGBT
----------------------------------- Follow & Connect With Us -----------------------------------

Apr 1, 2025 • 1h 21min
#955 WP-Tonic This Month in WordPress & Tech Round Table Show
StreamYard - https://streamyard.com/iu6433gag5
#955- WP-Tonic This Month in WordPress & Tech Round Table Show
With Special Guest Kevin Geary
WordPress and tech stories. Get the insights you need now.
Discover the month's must-know WordPress and tech stories in our latest video! We explore key updates, fascinating innovations, and expert commentary that are vital for anyone involved in the digital realm. Our engaging discussion keeps you informed and inspired as you navigate your tech journey. Don’t wait—watch now to catch up on what matters most in WordPress and technology.
#1 - Core Committers Struggle to Keep WordPress Moving as Automattic Steps Back Again
https://www.therepository.email/core-committers-struggle-to-keep-wordpress-moving-as-automattic-steps-back-again
Chatham House Rule
#2 - Meta is trying to silence a former executive. In an interview, she tells BI why.
Sarah Wynn-Williams.
Sarah Wynn-Williams's memoir "Careless People."
#3 - Why ‘Boring’ Features Benefit WordPress Professionals
https://thewpminute.com/why-boring-features-benefit-wordpress-professionals/
#4 - Why brand-owned communities are the future of growth
https://martech.org/why-brand-owned-communities-are-the-future-of-growth/
#5 - WordPress Could See Just One Major Release Per Year Under New Proposal
https://www.therepository.email/wordpress-could-see-just-one-major-release-per-year-under-new-proposal
#6 - Klarna’s deal with DoorDash is a dystopian reminder that groceries are so expensive you need a loan to shop
https://www.fastcompany.com/91303835/klarnas-deal-with-doordash-is-a-dystopian-reminder-that-groceries-are-so-expensive-you-need-a-loan-to-shop

Mar 24, 2025 • 56min
#954 WP-Tonic Show: Gutenberg The Good, The Bad, And The Ugly At The Beginning of 2025
WordPress Gutenberg: The Good, The Bad, And The Ugly At The Beginning of 2025
Is Gutenberg a blessing or a curse? Explore the good, the bad, and the ugly sides of this powerful tool at the start of 2025.
Join us as we navigate the intriguing landscape of Gutenberg's influence in early 2025. This video examines the positive strides in accessibility and education brought about by his innovations alongside the ethical dilemmas and drawbacks that have emerged. With a balanced perspective, we highlight both the triumphs and tribulations of this technological giant. Click to watch and gain a comprehensive understanding of Gutenberg’s enduring legacy.
With Special Guest - Brian Gardner, Head of Community at WP Engine
https://briangardner.com
https://wpengine.com/builders/author/brian-gardner/
#1 - Brian, can you give the audience a more detailed introduction on how you got into the world of web design and WordPress?
#2 - You seem to be a real supporter and fan of Gutenberg; what do you see as its biggest strengths, and what are some of its weaknesses ( I'm talking about full site editing here?)
#3 - To me, some of the main problems with Gutenberg is its UX design and usability connected to it not having a terrible interface but also not being that great connected to good UX design principles layout below; what do you think?
User-centricity
Consistency
Hierarchy
Context
User control
Accessibility
Usability
#4 - You seem quite bullish on the future of WordPress based on your recent public statements; if you agree with this statement, what do you see as the biggest opportunities for WordPress and the professional community in the next couple of years?
#5— What are your primary responsibilities at WP-Engine connected to your new position as "Head of Community at WP Engine," and what major things would you like to achieve in this new role over the next 12 to 18 months?
#6—If you had your time machine (H. G. Wells) and could travel back to the beginning of your career, what advice would you give?
https://www.uxdesigninstitute.com/blog/ux-design-principles/
----------------Sponsors------------------
Omnisend - https://bit.ly/3VskGBT
LfiterLMS - https://bit.ly/3VskGBT
Convesio - https://bit.ly/3VskGBT
----------------------------------- Follow & Connect With Us -----------------------------------
▬▬ LEARN FROM US ▬▬
► Our course is" Are You Looking To Build Your Membership Website Quickly And EASILY On WordPress?"
https://www.wp-tonic.com/course/
▬▬ LET'S CONNECT ▬▬
► FaceBook Free Group "The Membership Machine Show" Group Page
https://www.facebook.com/groups/membershipmachine
► Podcast "The Membership Machine Show"
https://f0k0.short.gy/oF9q9f
► X (Twitter)
https://x.com/wptonic_com
▬▬ SPECIAL DEALS ON THE TOOLS WE USE TO BUILD (ONLINE COURSES) ▬▬
https://www.wp-tonic.com/deals/
▬▬ ABOUT THIS CHANNEL ▬▬
We discuss everything connected to building a successful membership/community website in 2024, from the right technology to using up-to-date digital marketing techniques.
//CONTACT:
For business inquiries ONLY, please use this email: support@wptonic.com
-----------------------------------------Hosts of The Show -----------------------------------
Hosts of The Show
Jonathan Denwood & Kurt von Ahnen of MananaNoMas
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathandenwood/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/kurtvonahnen/
https://manananomas.com/
@MananaNoMas

Mar 18, 2025 • 54min
#953 WP-Tonic Show: What is The Future of SaaS & WordPress in a World of AI In 2025
What is The Future of SaaS & WordPress in a World of AI In 2025
How will AI shape SaaS & WordPress by 2025? Find out in our in-depth analysis of the future of these technologies. Click to learn more.
What does the future hold for SaaS and WordPress as artificial intelligence evolves? In this engaging video, we analyze the impact of AI on these platforms by 2025. Learn how AI will reshape how businesses operate and thrive online, from personalized user interfaces to automated workflows. Gain valuable insights and tips to stay ahead in this dynamic environment. Click to watch and prepare for the future!
With special guest Rob Walling, joint founder of Tinyseed and the presenter of the popular SaaS Podcast "Startup For The Rest of Us," and the founder of one of the largest annual bootstrap startup conferences, MicroConf.
#1 -Rob, can you give the audience a more detailed introduction on how you got involved in SaaS and online business ownership?
#2 - In a recent episode of your popular podcast "Startup For The Rest of Us" you discussed the possible threats and opportunities in the age of AI. Have you had time to have some additional thoughts on this subject that you are willing to share with the WP-Tonic tribe?
#3 - In another episode ( This Pricing Strategy is DISASTROUS (unless...), you discussed your general dislike of the Freemium pricing model, which is very popular in the WordPress professional community. Can you outline the main dislikes connected to this pricing strategy?
#4 - In this episode, " 6 Lessons From My MOST SUCCESSFUL Investments in B2B SaaS," you outline some essential principles for building a successful SaaS business. I wonder if you can give/share some additional insights connected to this with the tribe.
#5— What AI tools do you personally use to help you run your business?
#6—If you had your time machine (H. G. Wells) and could travel back to the beginning of your career, what advice would you give?
https://robwalling.com
https://www.startupsfortherestofus.com/
https://tinyseed.com
https://www.linkedin.com/in/robwalling

Mar 12, 2025 • 56min
#952 WP-Tonic Show: Multisite:Ugly Stepchild or Hidden Unicorn of WordPress in 2025?
952 WP-Tonic Show: Multisite:Ugly Stepchild or Hidden Unicorn of WordPress in 2025?
Discover the truth behind Multisite: a misunderstood feature or WordPress's secret weapon? Explore the pros and cons of this powerful tool.
In this insightful show, we explore the often-overlooked features and benefits of WordPress Multisite. Is it the ugly stepchild of website management or a hidden unicorn that can transform your online presence? We delve into the pros and cons, showcasing real-world applications and expert insights. Whether you're a developer or a business owner, this video will illuminate the potential of Multisite.
With Special Guest Robert Windisch, CIO (Chief Information Officer) at Syde Europe's Biggest WordPress Agency
https://syde.com