Podcasts about community relations

In this episode of the Post Status Happiness Hour, host Michelle Frechette chats with Adam Warner, GoDaddy's Director of Field Marketing. Adam discusses GoDaddy's latest tools, including the Site Optimizer for enhancing SEO and the AI-powered market research tool for client management. The conversation highlights GoDaddy's commitment to the WordPress community and upcoming developments.Top Takeaways:GoDaddy Airo is an AI-Powered Productivity Boost for Web Professionals: GoDaddy Airo offers a suite of tools designed to help web designers and developers (a.k.a. “web dnds”) save time and improve quality. It helps with tasks like writing copy, generating SEO meta descriptions, creating alt text for images, and performing overall site optimization.The Site Optimizer Ensures Strong SEO and Accessibility Foundations: The Site Optimizer tool scans pages for SEO opportunities and accessibility issues—like missing alt text—and provides automatic or manual suggestions to improve them. It covers headline hierarchy, content structure, social sharing cards, and more.Client Management is Streamlined with Built-In Tools and AI-Generated Market Research: Each client entry includes a simplified project/task list covering everything from discovery to site launch and maintenance. The standout feature is AI-powered market research, which generates useful client-specific data like industry demographics and SEO opportunities—great for discovery calls and proposal prep.Mentioned In The Show:WordPress.orgGoDaddy GoDaddy AiroManaged WP

In this podcast episode, host Michelle Frechette interviews Ryan Bracey, co-organizer of WordPress Accessibility Day and director of web development at Second Melody, discusses the upcoming event with Michelle. Ryan, who has been involved with the event for four years, shares insights on the speaker application process, event format, and accessibility features. The event, a 24-hour global virtual conference, aims to feature diverse speakers and will include pre-recorded talks followed by live Q&A sessions. The host and Ryan emphasize the importance of accessibility in web development and encourage listeners to apply as speakers.Top Takeaways:Call for Speakers Now Open: WP Accessibility Day 2025 is currently accepting speaker submissions for its global, 24-hour virtual conference, scheduled for October 15th, 2025. The event focuses on accessibility within the WordPress ecosystem and is seeking approximately 75 proposals to fill 23 speaker slots plus one keynote. Submissions are open through May 26th. Organizers are especially encouraging talks from individuals with lived experiences of disability and welcome a wide range of accessibility-related topics.New Format: Pre-Recorded Talks with Live Q&A: This year, the event introduces a new structure featuring pre-recorded presentations followed by live Q&A sessions. This format offers greater flexibility for speakers while ensuring a more stable and inclusive experience for attendees. In appreciation of their time and expertise, speakers will receive a $300 honorarium.Commitment to Accessibility and Inclusion: Accessibility is at the core of WP Accessibility Day. The event will include live captioning and American Sign Language (ASL) interpretation to ensure it is accessible to a global audience. To support diversity and fairness, speaker applications are reviewed anonymously. The organizers are especially encouraging submissions from individuals in underrepresented regions and communities. Proposals promoting overlays or superficial fixes that do not adhere to true accessibility standards will not be considered.Mentioned in the Show:WordPress Accessibility DaySecond Melody

Kate Blessing, Director of Community Relations at Martin Luther Campus, joins Ken Haglind to talk about Martin Luther Campus' mission and services that enhance senior living. Martin Luther Campus is managed by Ebenezer Management Services, the largest senior living management company in Minnesota. As part of Fairview Health Services, Ebenezer is driven to heal, discover,…

In this podcast episode, host Michelle Frechette interviews Amadeu Arderiu, an industrial engineer from Barcelona and co-owner of Sirvelia. Company specializing in custom WordPress plugins. They discuss Amadeo's innovative project, Ploogins, an AI-driven search engine that enhances plugin discovery through natural language queries. Amadeu demonstrates how users can find both free and premium plugins by describing their needs conversationally. The episode also covers the project's potential to fill gaps in the current plugin ecosystem. Amadeu invites feedback to refine the tool further, aiming to benefit the WordPress community.Top TakeawaysPloogins Aims to Be a Comprehensive, AI-Powered Plugin Discovery Tool: Ploogins is designed to help users—especially WordPress newcomers—discover relevant plugins using natural language search, not just keyword matching. It fills a significant gap by indexing both free and premium plugins (like Gravity Forms and LearnDash), which are often missing from the official repository or difficult to find via general search.Submission and Visibility for Developers Are Central: Plugin developers can submit their premium plugins for free. The team is currently indexing submissions manually but plans to build a developer dashboard with search analytics and performance metrics. This could eventually evolve into semantic-based analytics, giving plugin creators deeper insights into how users find and interact with their plugins.Community Involvement and Feedback Are Critical: Amadeu emphasizes that they need real-world usage and feedback from both novice users and veteran developers to refine the tool. Michelle suggests the importance of finding and showcasing lesser-known or premium plugins, and both agree on the value of making plugin discovery more inclusive and efficient for the broader WordPress ecosystem.Mentioned in the Show:PlooginsWP SpeakersWordPress.orgSirvelia

In this episode of the Post Status Happiness Hour, host Michelle Frechette welcomes Brad Williams, Chief Executive Officer of Web Dev Studios, to discuss the new Theme Switcher Pro plugin. Brad introduces Theme Switcher Pro, a plugin designed to help WordPress users transition from the classic editor to the block editor (Gutenberg) without a complete site rebuild. They discuss the plugin's features, including its ability to switch themes for specific posts or pages, and its benefits for businesses and developers. The episode concludes with a focus on community support and upcoming WordPress events.Top TakeawaysTheme Switcher Pro Simplifies Testing and Switching Between WordPress Themes: Theme Switcher Pro is positioned as a powerful utility for developers and agencies to easily preview, switch, and test multiple WordPress themes on a live site without affecting the frontend user experience. It removes the friction from theme testing, making it safer and faster to compare themes, especially during redesigns or audits.Built Specifically for Agencies, Developers, and High-Volume Users: Brad Williams emphasized that Theme Switcher Pro is not just a hobby plugin—it's designed for professional workflows. Agencies managing many client sites or developers constantly evaluating new themes are the target audience. Features are built with this high-usage context in mind, including the ability to bookmark themes, preview them privately, and manage theme stacks.Theme Switcher Pro Reflects Real-World Workflow Pain Points: The product emerged from Brad's direct experience at WebDevStudios and feedback from others facing the same problem: managing and previewing themes across many sites was a repetitive, manual, and risky process. Theme Switcher Pro directly addresses these workflow inefficiencies and turns them into a smooth, controlled experience.Mentioned In The Show:Web Dev StudiosTheme Switcher ProOllieAsterGit Commit

In this episode of the Post Status Happiness Hour, host Michelle Frechette discusses the upcoming Page Builder Summit with guests Dan Maby and Nathan Wrigley. Scheduled for May 12-16, 2025, the summit aims to unite the WordPress community. Michele highlights the collaborative spirit and the importance of community engagement. Dan and Nathan share insights into the planning process, the diverse range of sessions, and the evolution of page builders. They emphasize the summit's role in fostering learning and connections.Top TakeawaysThe Summit Is Exceptionally Accessible and Flexible: The Page Builder Summit is designed to be easy and low-pressure for attendees. With free access to pre-recorded sessions for 48 hours, viewers can tune in when it's convenient for them. The optional Power Pack gives extended access and extra bonuses.Visibility for Lesser-Known Creators and Speakers: One of the summit's highlights is giving a platform to a diverse lineup of speakers, many of whom aren't regularly featured at large in-person WordCamps or other conferences. It's a space for new voices and fresh perspectives to shine.Sponsorships Make the Event Possible—and Deserve Support: Nathan highlighted that without sponsor support, the summit wouldn't happen. Sponsors like GoDaddy, WS Form, BigScoots, and many others contribute more than just funds—they provide energy, tools, and community-building support.Mentioned In The Show:WPLDNPageBuilderSummit.com MagentoDrupalAnchen le RouxKadenceElementorDiviBeaver BuilderGoDaddyKinstaMelapressBlackwallPress Forward podcastBig Orange HeartWP Coffee Talk podcastBig ScootsWeb Designer ProYour Moxie MavenWeb Designer AcademyZainatain Dynamic.oooAB Split TestBS-Free BusinessWP MavensCroco BlockWS FormsCheck ViewDroip

In this podcast episode, host Michelle Frechette interviews Kyle Van Deusen, who runs a small web agency in Richmond, Virginia, and founded "The Admin Bar," a community for freelancers and agency owners. They discuss the 2025 WordPress Professional Survey, which Kyle conducted to gather insights from web professionals. The survey, which received 1,233 responses, highlights the experiences and challenges faced by freelancers and agency owners.Top TakeawaysMany Agency Owners Lack Business Fundamentals: A lot of agency owners start by accident, not with a business plan. As a result, many undercharge and lack confidence in setting prices. Kyle pointed out that few are reaching their income goals—not due to market limits, but because they don't know what's possible. This shows a big need for basic business education around pricing, value, and financial planning.Marketing and Networking Are Largely Overlooked: Nearly 60% of respondents aren't doing in-person networking, and many aren't investing in marketing. Too many rely on being found organically, which isn't enough anymore. Kyle and Michelle highlighted that growth requires showing up, building relationships, and actively promoting your services.Community Helps Build Confidence and Clarity: Talking with peers can shift your mindset and pricing strategy. Kyle shared how learning what others charged helped him raise his rates confidently. Community support helps agency owners avoid mistakes, learn faster, and feel less alone in their journey.The Survey Is a Valuable, Underused Resource: Kyle stressed that the real power of the survey lies in how people use it. By digging into the data, agency owners can find paths others have taken to success. The more participation it gets, the more valuable and representative it becomes for the whole community.Mentioned in the Show:https://theadminbar.com/2025-survey/https://theadminbar.com/https://www.facebook.com/groups/2147806538801573

In this episode of The Broadband Bunch, host Brad Hine previews Fiber Connect 2025 with Richard Williams, President & CEO of Connect2 Communications, and Evann Freeman, VP of Government & Community Relations at EPB Chattanooga and Fiber Connect Conference Chair. They discuss what's new at this year's event—including 300+ speakers, expanded operator Light Talks, tribal broadband sessions, and the premiere of the Thought Waves documentary featuring internet pioneer Vint Cerf. Plus, get the inside scoop on the expo, Smart Home Open House, OpTIC Path rodeo, and can't-miss social events like karaoke night and the Glow Party.

You've heard the debates about police training, accountability, and use of force - but rarely from the inside. This candid conversation brings together Chief Scott Hughes, Sergeant Eric Levine, Banning Sweatland, and rookie officer Trey to unpack what's really happening in modern policing.The numbers are shocking: barbers require 1800 hours of training, cosmetologists need 1500, but police officers - who can legally take a human life - receive just 740 hours before hitting the streets. "We're not giving them enough training where you're increasing heart rate, blood pressure, pulse, breathing, all that and then making them make decisions in those moments," explains Chief Hughes, highlighting how inadequately we prepare officers for real-world stress.Through live analysis of body camera footage, the panel examines critical incidents including an apparent suicide-by-cop situation and a case where officers mistook a cell phone for a weapon. Their commentary reveals how split-second decisions unfold and why multiple officers often fire numerous rounds - context that's frequently missing from headlines.Technology presents both solutions and new challenges. From license plate readers to body cameras that automatically activate when weapons are drawn, these tools create accountability but require proper training and ethical frameworks. "Every keystroke is matched," Levine notes about modern police systems, emphasizing how difficult it is for officers to misuse information without detection.Perhaps most revealing is their honest assessment of police leadership failures. "One of our biggest issues with recruitment and retention isn't what's going on in the media, it's leadership inside the organizations," Hughes admits. This disconnect between command staff and patrol officers creates systemic problems that affect both officer well-being and public safety.Whether you're pro-police, critical of law enforcement, or somewhere in between, this episode offers rare insights into the complexities facing modern officers and the reforms needed to protect both citizens and the officers sworn to serve them.#police #lawenforcement #cops  #bridgethegap #bethechange 

Norm Duvé, Vice President of Community Relations at Copa Health, joins Jeff Bayer, Community Relations Coordinator, to kick off the Copa Health Mental Health Awareness Month podcast series in production with the Mesa Chamber of Commerce. Norm and Jeff discuss Copa Health's journey in Mental Health Awareness Month and the 31 Days of Healing initiative. Learn more about Copa Health's Mental Health Awareness Month initiative at: https://copahealth.org/mentalhealthawarenessmonth/ The Mesa Chamber of Commerce Inside Business Podcast is a production of the Mesa Chamber of Commerce. Each episode is recorded in the University of Phoenix Podcast Studio. Inquiries regarding the MCIBP can be made via email to info@mesachamber.org.  The Podcast interviews members and individuals/organizations on topics of interest to Mesa Chamber members. Learn more at mesachamber.org. ©2025 Mesa Chamber of Commerce

In the 7 AM hour, Larry O’Connor and Patrice Onwuka discussed: WMAL GUEST: Rachel Feinstein (Director of Government and Community Relations for the Jewish Community Relations Council of Greater Washington) NY POST: New NYC ad is ‘scratch and sniff,’ so you can stop and smell armpits on the street NY POST: Baby raves give NYC millennial parents the chance to party — and spend time with their kids: ‘Very much our scene’ WMAL GUEST: Emma Waters (Policy Analyst in the Center for Technology and the Human Person at The Heritage Foundation) X: Numerous people pause in front of the open casket to capture photos and videos, some even smiling, and later share them on social media. Where to find more about WMAL's morning show: Follow podcasts on Apple, Audible and Spotify Follow WMAL's "O'Connor and Company" on X: @WMALDC, @LarryOConnor, @JGunlock, @PatricePinkfile, and @HeatherHunterDC Facebook: WMALDC and Larry O'Connor Instagram: WMALDC Website: wmal.com/oconnor-company Episode: Friday, April 25, 2025 / 7 AM HourSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

WMAL GUEST: Rachel Feinstein (Director of Government and Community Relations for the Jewish Community Relations Council of Greater Washington) JEWISH INSIDER: Georgetown Postpones BDS Vote Until After Passover JCRC WEBSITE: JCouncil.org Where to find more about WMAL's morning show: Follow podcasts on Apple, Audible and Spotify Follow WMAL's "O'Connor and Company" on X: @WMALDC, @LarryOConnor, @JGunlock, @PatricePinkfile, and @HeatherHunterDC Facebook: WMALDC and Larry O'Connor Instagram: WMALDC Website: wmal.com/oconnor-company Episode: Friday, April 25, 2025 / 7 AM HourSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We talk a lot around here about parenting with purpose, discipling our children, and homeschooling with excellence. But all of that takes place within the context of family life—and that means that even the practical, everyday decisions we make matter deeply.  In this episode of the Teach Them Diligently Podcast, Leslie Nunnery sits down with Wes Humble of Liberty HealthShare to explore a topic that touches every family—healthcare. But this isn't just a discussion about plans and pricing; it's about mission, stewardship, and building a community of care among believers. Wes shares his personal journey from pastoring churches to becoming the staff pastor for Liberty HealthShare, where he ministers not only to staff but also to members across the nation. Meet the Guest: Wes Humble served in ministry for more than 31 years before coming to Liberty HealthShare in 2018, where he serves as Executive Director of Ministry, Community Relations, and Events. Wes also serves Bridge City Church, in Newark, Ohio in Ministry Development and Leadership Support. He has pastored churches in Ohio, Indiana, and Pennsylvania.  Topics Covered in Podcast: What healthcare sharing ministries are and how they work Why Liberty HealthShare is uniquely equipped to serve Christian homeschool families How families can take charge of both their children's education and their healthcare Real-life examples of how Liberty helps members steward their medical expenses The mission behind the ministry and how it's changing lives https://youtu.be/sSmI-zKYorQ Additional Resources: Liberty HealthShare Website Learn more at upcoming Teach Them Diligently events in Pigeon Forge, Branson, and at Liberty University!  Podcast Sponsor: Liberty HealthShare is a non-profit, charitable organization and a Christian medical cost-sharing ministry.Its mission is to spread the gospel through care and encouragement. Like-minded individuals and families who share Christian values of stewardship and healthy living come together to support one another. Members across the United States share the burden of carrying medical expenses while uplifting each other through prayer and encouragement.  This year, Liberty HealthShare is celebrating its 30th anniversary and has introduced a new Charitable Fund, the Sharing Hearts Fund for Pediatric Wellness. This fund aims to help children in Stark County, Ohio, where the sharing ministry is based—get access to important wellness procedures that they may have missed due to financial constraints. 

Megan Riaz - Director of Community Relations for Bethesda Clinic

In this episode of the Post Status Happiness Hour, host Michelle Frechette interviews Neel Schivdasani a product manager in the AI division at Automattic, about the integration of AI into WordPress.com. Neil discusses his background and the development of an AI website builder designed to simplify website creation for users without technical expertise. The conversation covers the evolution of AI in web development, the challenges faced, and future enhancements. A live demonstration showcases the tool's user-friendly features, emphasizing its potential to democratize web publishing. The episode concludes with a discussion on user feedback and the collaborative spirit of the WordPress community.Top TakeawaysThe AI Website Builder Lowers Barriers for Non-Technical Users: The builder is specifically designed for people who don't know what WordPress is, or who feel overwhelmed by traditional website tools. It's aimed at helping individuals quickly create a professional-looking site without needing to learn plugins, themes, or complex design tools. The assistant guides users through content creation, layout choices, and even image sourcing.A Major Intelligence Upgrade is Coming: Neel teased an upcoming “step function” increase in intelligence for the assistant. This includes improved reasoning, contextual awareness, and the ability to understand abstract commands. Future iterations will allow users to describe desired layouts or functionality in natural language, and the assistant will generate the appropriate code or configuration—bridging the gap between vision and execution.Commerce and Custom Layouts Are on the Roadmap:The team is working to support broader use cases, especially eCommerce. The assistant will eventually be able to understand what a user is trying to sell, recommend necessary plugins (like for payment or shipping), and configure stores accordingly. Users will also soon be able to generate specific layouts (e.g., “2x2 image grid with a CTA button”) just by describing them.It's Not Replacing Developers—It's Growing the Ecosystem: There's pushback from some developers, but Neel emphasized this tool isn't meant to replace them. Instead, it's about helping people who wouldn't otherwise be able to afford or access web development. It gives them a starting point, and ideally, they'll grow into more advanced needs—eventually hiring developers or agencies.Mentioned In The Show:AutomatticWordPress.com/AIMailchimpCursorLovable

Veronica Macedo, Director of Development and Community Relations for the Chicano Federation, talks about the Federation's Annual Unity Day Luncheon, set for May 2; the life-changing impact of the 56-year old Federation; and its volunteer and support opportunities.About Spotlight and Cloudcast Media "Spotlight On The Community" is the longest running community podcast in the country, continuously hosted by Drew Schlosberg for 19 years.  "Spotlight" is part of Cloudcast Media's line-up of powerful local podcasts, telling the stories, highlighting the people, and celebrating the gravitational power of local.  For more information on Cloudcast and its shows and cities served, please visit www.cloudcastmedia.us. Cloudcast Media | the national leader in local podcasting.   About Mission Fed Credit Union A community champion for over 60 years, Mission Fed Credit Union with over $6 billion in member assets, is the Sponsor of Spotlight On The Community, helping to curate connectivity, collaboration, and catalytic conversations.  For more information on the many services for San Diego residents, be sure to visit them at https://www.missionfed.com/

April 15, 2025 ~ Melissa Sweet, Director of Community Relations for LegaSea Aquarium and The Reptarium talks to Mark Hackel in for Paul W Smith.

In this episode of the Post Status Happiness Hour, host Michelle Frechette interviews Tim Bouchard, and Ron Brennan discuss the upcoming Color Code event, a conference focused on design, technology, and marketing. Unlike traditional WordCamps, Color Code aims to be more inclusive, welcoming participants from various platforms and technologies. The event will feature a diverse lineup of speakers, interactive elements like a live graffiti art competition, and networking opportunities. Set to take place in Buffalo, New York, the conference emphasizes accessibility and community involvement, promising a dynamic and engaging experience for all attendees.Top Takeaways:Networking and Collaboration Opportunities: The Color Code event emphasizes the power of in-person connections. With a focus on creative professionals, marketers, and developers, the event is designed to facilitate collaboration through both formal presentations and informal networking (the "hallway track"). Attendees can expect meaningful conversations and potential partnerships that might not happen in a purely virtual setting.Diverse and Relevant Topics: The event will cover a range of cutting-edge topics, such as AI, content strategies, and the challenges of decoupling from major tech players like Google. These presentations, led by volunteer speakers, aim to provide valuable insights and practical knowledge, making the event a great opportunity for professionals to stay informed on industry trends.Affordability and Accessibility: With an affordable ticket price ($40), including lunch and the after-party, Color Code positions itself as an accessible event for professionals of all backgrounds. The organizers also plan to record sessions and make them available online, ensuring that those who can't attend in person still have access to the valuable content.Mentioned In The Show:Color CodePress ConfWP EngineMeetupSeneca One TowerDouglas DevelopmentLuminousGene McCarthy's

JJ & Alex with Jeremiah Jensen and Alex Kirry on April 10, 2025. Sly Sylvester filling in  Latest from Utah Spring Ball Kari Larson, Senior Vice President of Community Relations at the Utah Jazz and Utah Hockey Club Bracket Mayhem Winner Thurl Bailey, Utah Jazz TV Broadcast Analyst Mike Folta, Live from the Plaza with Alex Kirry and Sly Sylvester Coach Tourigny is the best guy to lead Utah Bob Casper, Real Golf Radio Cole Bagley, Live from the Plaza with Alex Kirry and Sly Sylvester Matt the Utah Hockey Club super fan Best and Worst of the Day

Trees have been cut down, parking barriers installed, and plans are underway for construction to begin in June on the expansion of the convention center in downtown Bloomington.Even the name has changed, from the Monroe Convention Center to the Bloomington Convention Center.It's taken almost a decade to get the expansion project to this point. The plan includes a 61,000-square foot building across College Avenue from the current convention center, along with renovations to the current building.That includes a full-service kitchen that could serve close to 2,000 people, a bus pull-off with Third Street corridor alignment, a loading dock ramp, relocation of utilities, and a climate-friendly green roof.The two buildings will be connected by a skybridge over College Avenue.One sticking point in the project is with the planned hotel on site. Dora Hospitality has been approved to build the new hotel, but it's still in discussions with the city and county on exactly where the hotel will be built. That could delay the opening of the hotel until after the convention center is operational.Some are concerned about having enough parking in the immediate area, but CIB president John Whikehart doesn't think that will be a problem with the lots already owned and the nearby Fourth Street Garage.On this week's Noon Edition, we'll discuss where the Bloomington Convention Center expansion project stands, the economic impact for the county and more.Join us on the air by calling 812-855-0811 or toll-free at 1-877-285-9348. You can also send questions for the show to news@indianapublicmedia.org.  You can also record your questions and send them in through email. GuestsJohn Whikehart, President, Capital Improvement BoardJim Silberstein, Board member, Capital Improvement BoardChristopher Emge, Senior Director of Government and Community Relations, Greater Bloomington Chamber of Commerce

Kari Larson, Senior Vice President of Community Relations at the Utah Jazz and Utah Hockey Club, joins the program to talk on the latest from the SEG Foundation and what they are working on for their community outreach initiatives.

Hour 1 of JJ & Alex with Jeremiah Jensen and Alex Kirry. Sly Sylvester filling in  Latest from Utah Spring Ball Kari Larson, Senior Vice President of Community Relations at the Utah Jazz and Utah Hockey Club Bracket Mayhem Winner

Emma joins Rich to talk about the 10th annual Charter Day of Service alongside JU's 91st anniversary on Friday, April 11th. Charter Day is a special occasion when students, faculty and staff step away from classrooms and offices to take part in a morning of service, volunteering with organizations throughout Arlington and Jacksonville.

In this episode of the Post Status Happiness Hour, host Michelle Frechette interviews Roger Williams from Kinsta. Who serves as the Partnerships and Community Manager for North America. They discuss various topics including the WordPress community, Kinsta's new affiliate program, and their global sponsorship of WordCamps. The episode also highlights the creation of collaborative music playlists within the Post Status Slack community and the importance of concise, engaging content. Additionally, the guest shares insights on supporting WordPress contributors and the launch of Kinsta's new automatic updates feature for themes and plugins.Top Takeaways:The Importance of Thorough Testing in Software Development and Releases: Michelle emphasized the critical role of testing and feedback during the release cycle of WordPress 6.8, particularly as they approach its official launch. Despite having a dedicated testing community, the need for more testers is constant to ensure compatibility with a wide range of plugins and themes. The takeaway is that comprehensive testing is vital for minimizing issues at launch, and encouraging more community involvement can help ensure smoother releases.The Value of Consistent Community Contribution and Support for Open Source Projects: Roger highlighted the importance of documentation in open-source projects like WordPress, noting that it's often underappreciated until something goes wrong. He also spoke about Kinsta's involvement in supporting the community through contributions, such as sponsoring WordCamp and supporting documentation initiatives. The takeaway is that consistent, behind-the-scenes contributions, like documentation and community support, are crucial for the sustainability and success of open-source projects, even though they are often taken for granted.Kinsta's Automatic Updates Feature Enhances Site Reliability: Roger introduced Kinsta's new Automatic Updates feature, which ensures WordPress sites remain updated while minimizing risks. The system takes a before-and-after screenshot during updates and automatically reverts changes if visual differences are detected, helping prevent website issues that could impact business operations.Mentioned In The Show:KinstaLinux container project  LinkedInWordCamp USSevallaCloudflare EnterpriseStackOverflowMeetup.comWordPress FoundationEsoTerra CideryKinsta Automatic Updates

Join hosts Chantel Windeshausen and Liz Malmberg for a powerful new episode of A Penny or Two for Your Thoughts, where they welcome Deb Denbeck, President and CEO of Partnership for Kids, and Dawn Gonzales, Vice President of Community Relations at Centris Federal Credit Union. Together, they explore how financial literacy programs, such as Mad City Money, are transforming young lives and equipping students with lifelong financial skills through hands-on education and mentorship. The conversation covers everything from teaching budgeting and savings to students as young as sixth grade, to success stories of program graduates who have become doctors, lawyers, and community leaders. The episode also introduces Centris's new Financial Education Center, Enrich — an interactive, personalized tool to support financial wellness for all ages. If you're passionate about empowering youth through education, this is an episode you don't want to miss.If you have any questions you would like us to ask our Subject Matter Experts, send them our way to apennyforyourthoughts@centrisfcu.orgFollow Centris on Social!Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | LinkedInThis is another Hurrdat Media Production. Hurrdat Media is a podcast network and digital media production company based in Omaha, NE. Find more podcasts on the Hurrdat Media Network by going to HurrdatMedia.com or Hurrdat Media YouTube channel!

In this episode of the Post Status Happiness Hour, host Michelle Frechette interviews Cami MacNamara a seasoned web designer and solopreneur. Cami shares insights into her business, Web Cam LLC, and her new initiative, "Web Designer Habits," which aims to help web designers develop productive habits. They discuss the importance of accountability, time management techniques like time blocking and the Pomodoro technique, and the benefits of joining online and local networking groups. The episode also teases a collaborative project between Michelle and Cammy involving a planner designed to support web designers in maintaining their habits.Top Takeaways:Small Changes Lead to Big Improvements – Cami emphasized the power of incremental progress, whether in business, design, or personal productivity. Tackling tasks in small steps can make overwhelming projects more manageable and sustainable.Be Prepared for the Unexpected – Michelle shared practical travel and everyday preparedness tips, from keeping essential items in the car to ensuring that your luggage complies with airline regulations. Thinking ahead can save time, stress, and even money.Documenting Processes is Key – The discussion touched on the importance of writing down systems and workflows, especially for solopreneurs. Whether through standard operating procedures (SOPs) or simple notes, having a record helps maintain efficiency and organization.Community and Support Matter – Both Michelle and Cami highlighted the value of connection in professional spaces, particularly within the WordPress and web design communities. Engaging with peers through newsletters, Facebook groups, and live discussions fosters learning, growth, and mutual encouragement.Mentioned In The Show:Web Cami, LLCwebdesignerhabits.comStreamYardWebCamiCafeGoDaddySheinPomodoro TechniqueWordPress TVManaged WPAdmin BarBeaver BuilderCalendlyWPCoffeeTalk

In this episode of the Post Status Happiness Hour, host Michelle Frechette interviews Gen Herres from Easy A11y Guide to discuss web accessibility. Jen shares her background as a developer and her journey in understanding and implementing accessibility standards. She emphasizes the importance of simplifying complex accessibility concepts for clients and offers strategies for agencies to sell accessibility services. Jen introduces a five-day challenge to help agencies qualify potential clients and sell their first accessibility package. The conversation highlights the significance of making websites accessible to a broader audience and the various reasons why accessibility is essential for businesses.Top Takeaways:Accessibility Doesn't Have to Be Scary:  Many people find web accessibility intimidating, but experts like Gen Herres help simplify the process. There are resources available to make accessibility more approachable.Planning for Accessibility Takes Time: Implementing accessibility properly requires time for strategy, testing, and client approvals. Starting now helps businesses integrate it seamlessly into their workflow instead of rushing later.Accessibility Can Help Generate More Revenue: Learning how to sell accessibility services effectively can help web professionals increase their income by offering more value to clients.Mentioned In The Show:Easy A11y GuideWCAGMozilla17 HatsEqualize DigitalWacomNew York E-Z Pass Apple VoiceOverDequeJAWSCloudflareWPAccessibility.dayCami MacNamara5-Day Accessibility Selling ChallengeAgency Accessibility SystemGuidebook for Accessibility at Your Agency

SummaryIn this episode of the Stoked Up podcast, host Alan Stoddard interviews Joshua Gilmore, a campus pastor at North Greenville University and the revitalization pastor at Tigerville Baptist Church. Joshua shares his journey of faith, his role in connecting students with local churches, and the challenges and successes he has faced in revitalizing Tigerville Baptist Church. The conversation highlights the importance of community engagement, building relationships, and the power of prayer in church growth and revitalization efforts.TakeawaysJoshua grew up in a Christian home and was called to ministry in high school.He serves as the senior director of Church and Community Relations at North Greenville University.Tigerville Baptist Church was struggling with attendance and needed revitalization.Joshua initiated prayer walks around Tigerville Baptist Church before taking on the role.The church has seen growth from 25 to 52 attendees since Joshua's involvement.Community engagement is crucial for church revitalization efforts.Joshua emphasizes the importance of relationships in attracting new members.He aims to baptize more individuals from the local community.Joshua's wife and university president supported his decision to help the church.He has specific prayer requests for church growth and staffing needs.

Mark brings on former police chief and law enforcement consultant, Dr. Edward 'Dwain' Denmark, who discusses the complexities of law enforcement, emphasizing the need for standardization while recognizing the unique needs of different communities. He highlights the ongoing challenges in community relations, the importance of organizational development within police departments, and the integration of mental health professionals into policing. Dr. Denmark also addresses recruitment issues, his personal journey to becoming a police chief, and the significance of leadership and community engagement in fostering trust. The discussion concludes with reflections on the importance of understanding perceptions and facilitating open conversations between police and the community. Connect with him on LinkedIn or Facebook or email him at edenmark801@gmail.com! Takeaways Standardization in policing is necessary but challenging due to community differences. Community relations are strained, with significant distrust on both sides. Organizational development is crucial for police departments to align with community needs. Mental health crises require specialized training for police officers. Recruitment in law enforcement has been declining for years, exacerbated by recent events. Leadership in policing involves setting a positive tone and direction for the agency. Engaging with the community is essential for rebuilding trust and understanding. The co-responder model with social workers is gaining acceptance among police officers. Understanding community perceptions is vital for effective policing. Facilitating conversations between police and community can resolve conflicts. Chapters 03:02 Community Relations and Trust in Law Enforcement 05:52 Organizational Development in Police Departments 08:55 Mental Health and Policing: The Role of Social Workers 12:07 Recruitment Challenges in Law Enforcement 15:04 The Journey to Becoming a Police Chief 17:47 Leadership and Community Engagement in Policing 21:00 Facilitating Conversations Between Police and Community 23:53 The Importance of Organizational Development 27:00 Personal Insights and Reflections on Music and Life Affiliate Links: Unleashing the Power of Respect: The I-M Approach by Joseph Shrand, MD This episode is brought to you in part by SecuriTitle, a fractional paralegal service assisting with all things real estate in Massachusetts and New Hampshire.    

Greg Bray from Pricketts Fort on the State Park and lecture series that begins Sunday, March 16. WVU Medicine Children's Hospital Restaurant Week with Erin Blake- Director of Community Relations & GivingMonongalia County Delegate Joe Statler on a measure to bring the state Board of Education under legislative review

Send us a textSummary: In this episode of the PIO podcast, Lauren Burton, the Director of Communications and Community Relations for the Douglas County District Attorney's Office in Georgia, shares her unique journey from victim advocacy to her current role. She discusses the importance of community engagement, the challenges of digital communication, and the strategies she employs to ensure consistent messaging and effective outreach. Lauren highlights successful media campaigns, the role of social media, and the impact of her office's visibility in the community. She also touches on the use of AI tools in her work and emphasizes the importance of self-care for public information officers.Lauren's Bio - Lauren Burden is the Director of Communications and Community Relations for the Douglas County District Attorney's Office. In this role, she oversees the office's social media, website, marketing, and media communications. She also coordinates and organizes the office's participation in community events, plans office-sponsored community events, and organizes all internal events.Lauren graduated from Georgia College and State University with a degree in Sociology. She began her career at the Douglas County District Attorney's Office as a Victim Advocate in April 2013. In 2021, she took on the role of communications coordinator before transitioning to her current position full-time in January 2022. She was honored with the office's Barry Wood Award in 2021.was recognized as a Top Young Professional in Douglas County in 2022, and received the InnovateHER award at the CelebrateHER awards with the Douglas County Chamber in 2024.In addition to her professional work, Lauren actively contributes to her community by serving on several boards, including New Georgia Baseball as Secretary, Paulding County Baseball Advisory Board as Secretary, Douglas County Young Professionals as Treasurer, and The ATIR Community. Outside of work and volunteering, she enjoys spending time with her fourteen-year-old son and her family.Support the showOur premiere sponsor, Social News Desk, has an exclusive offer for PIO Podcast listeners. Head over to socialnewsdesk.com/pio to get three months free when a qualifying agency signs up.

Pavlo Bandriwsky, Vice President of Government and Community Relations for the Ukrainian Congress Committee of America – Illinois Division, joins Lisa Dent to talk about the fallout of the meeting between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and President Trump.

Pavlo Bandriwsky, Vice President of Government and Community Relations for the Ukrainian Congress Committee of America Illinois Division, joins Lisa Dent to talk about Ukrainian President, Volodymyr Zelensky and President Trump signing a minerals deal.

In this episode, Paul Penzone, Vice President and Chief Community Relations Officer at Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona, joins the podcast to discuss AZBlue's mission to support community healthcare needs. He shares insights on the company's initiative to erase medical debt, expand access to preventive care, and foster long-term health equity across Arizona.

Secondhand caregiver trauma is often unrecognized or easily dismissed when, truly, it needs to be acknowledged and normalized as an inherent part of a caregiver's daily struggles. Today, we welcome the dedicated mental health advocate and Director of Community Relations at Sandstone Center for Neurofeedback, Dawn Kuhn, who's passionate about caregivers dealing with the stress of caring for their loved ones. We begin with Dawn's passionate empathy for caregivers and how she goes about her daily work, before unpacking some of the biggest misconceptions many have about caregivers. Then, we discover how to determine if you're a caregiver suffering from burnout, why caregiver support groups matter, how to get involved with Dawn and her work, and the steps to take to start your own caregiver support group. We end with details on Dawn's brand new caregiver support website, Care for the Care the work being done at Sandstone Center for Neurofeedback, and our guest details her long-term goals and why dreams of the future fill her with hope Key Points From This Episode: Community Relations Director, Dawn Kuhn describes her passion for caregivers.  Unpacking the biggest misconceptions about caregivers.  How to know if you're suffering from caregiver burnout.  Why caregiver support groups matter, and why Dawn started a caregiver support network.  More details on Dawn's caregiver support groups and how to get involved.  How Dawn helps others to start their own caregiver support groups.  The ins and outs of her brand new caregiver support website, Care for the Care.  Learning about the work being done at Sandstone Center for Neurofeedback.  Dawn's long-term goals in caregiver support, and why she's optimistic about the future.  Links Mentioned in Today's Episode:  Dawn Kuhn on LinkedIn  Dawn Kuhn Email Sandstone Center for Neurofeedback  Sandstone Supports  Care for the Caring Jennifer Myers on LinkedIn Mosaics of Mercy Hope Pieced Together

We are talking with Jennifer LeMeunier, Director of Strategic and Leadership Events at ULL & Shyra Moran, Community Relations Officer at Advancial about the upcoming UL Lafayette Women's Leadership Conference on March 13th.Website: https://womensleadershipconference.org/— Find this and past episodes at: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/sh...— The Tea Podcast is proudly sponsored by Optimize Generator People, Chase Group Construction, and The Music Academy of Acadiana

In this special edition of the "Get Hired" podcast, the hosts, including  Nicky Bulmer, co-host Misty Combs, and guest Michelle Frechette, answer listener-submitted questions on job seeking. They discuss how to address job hopping by providing context on resumes, the pros and cons of functional versus chronological resume formats, and strategies for explaining employment gaps. The episode also covers handling common interview questions, the importance of being honest about salary expectations, and the role of social media in hiring. The speakers offer practical advice to empower job seekers in their application processTop Takeaways:Job Interviews Are a Two-Way Street: Candidates should ask insightful questions, such as how salary ranges are determined and what differentiates top earners from lower earners.It's important for job seekers to showcase their skills and experience even if the interviewer doesn't directly ask about them.Thinking Beyond Standard Questions: Candidates should anticipate questions beyond their resumes and prepare to discuss communication tools, remote work habits, and problem-solving approaches.Tailor Your Resume to the Job You're Applying For: It's important to customize your resume for each job application. Highlight relevant skills, experiences, and achievements that directly relate to the position. A generic resume may not stand out as much, while one that speaks to the specific needs of the company and role shows that you've taken the time to understand what they're looking for, making you a more appealing candidateMentioned In The Show:Liquid WebGet Hired Podcast

In this episode of the Post Status Happiness Hour, host Michelle Frechette interviews Jono Alderson, an independent technical SEO consultant and WordPress advocate. Jono shares his journey of creating and submitting his first plugin to the WordPress repository, focusing on image optimization for website performance. They discuss the complexities of managing multiple image sizes in WordPress and how Jono's plugin generates images on-the-fly using services like Cloudflare, reducing server load and improving performance. The conversation also covers the environmental impact of web hosting, Jono's background, and his experience with AI-assisted coding.Top Takeaways:Image Optimization Plugin for WordPress:Jono Alderson's plugin focuses on solving WordPress image optimization issues by addressing the inefficiencies in how images are handled. WordPress often generates unnecessary image sizes, which leads to slower load times and inefficient storage use. His plugin dynamically generates the appropriately sized images for each device, improving both website performance and storage efficiency. By eliminating the need for WordPress to create multiple versions of images, the plugin optimizes the backend and frontend performance of a website.Environmental Impact of Image Management: The discussion highlights the environmental impact of inefficient image management. Storing and serving large or redundant images increases the carbon footprint due to the energy used in data centers and transmission networks. Optimizing images and reducing excess storage can help lower this impact, making even small changes in image management significant for sustainability.Jono Alderson's Plugin Submission Experience: Jono Alderson shared his experience submitting a plugin to WordPress, noting initial nervousness due to his self-taught background. After carefully following guidelines, the submission went smoothly, with only minor issues to address. Once live, Jono quickly fixed bugs and found updating easier with practice.Mentioned In The Show:YoastCloudflareWooCommerceGravity FormsSlackWhatsAppFacebookGoogle DiscoverFortniteHello BeautifulGitHubCursorJonoAlderson.com

Mark Treyger — CEO of the Jewish Community Relations Council of New York and a former New York City Council member — joined the show to discuss combating increased anti-Semitism, Jewish community relations, Jewish voters in the 2025 NYC elections, and more. (Ep 483)

The recent controversy between WordPress and WP Engine put Matt Mullenweg (Co-Founder of WordPress, CEO of Automattic) under intense online scrutiny. In our conversation, he shared lessons from the controversy and managing through crisis, as well as this thoughts on the future of open source AI and more.(00:00) Intro(01:17) Controversy with WP Engine(03:36) Understanding Open Source and Trademarks(04:36) Automattic's Role and Contributions(08:26) Navigating Legal Battles and Community Relations(18:27) Leadership and Personal Resilience(21:49) The Impact of Social Media on CEOs(31:22) Future Outlook and Reflections(32:42) Exploring the Quinn Model and Open Source Innovations(33:17) The Evolution of AI Interfaces and User Interactions(35:36) AI as a Writing and Coding Partner(38:07) The Power of Open Source in AI Development(40:00) Commoditizing Complements: A Business Strategy(41:39) The Battle with Shopify and Open Source Models(42:33) The Impact of Open Source on Market Dynamics(43:55) USB-C Transition and Gadget Recommendations(47:53) The Benefits of Sabbaticals(53:34) The Future of WordPress and Automattic(59:12) Employee Ownership and Liquidity Programs(01:04:33) Conclusion and Final Thoughts Executive Producer: Rashad AssirProducer: Leah ClapperMixing and editing: Justin Hrabovsky Check out Unsupervised Learning, Redpoint's AI Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@UCUl-s_Vp-Kkk_XVyDylNwLA 

In this podcast episode, host Michelle Frechette interviews Mary Hubbard, the newly appointed Executive Director of WordPress. They discuss Mary's professional journey, including her roles at Automattic and TikTok, and her recent move to the Pacific Northwest. The conversation covers her experiences with e-commerce, technology, and parenting. Mary shares her excitement about the WordPress community and her vision for its future. The episode also touches on the evolution of technology, the importance of adaptability, and personal anecdotes, creating a lively and insightful dialogue about leadership and innovation in the tech world.Top TakeawaysThe Power of Context in Leadership: Mary emphasizes the importance of understanding context in leadership and decision-making. By knowing the "why" behind decisions, team members can navigate challenges more effectively, even if they don't always agree with the direction. This context-sharing fosters trust and clarity, making everyday tasks easier and enabling better decision-making.Being a Supportive and Approachable Leader: Mary shows the value of being available and responsive to her team. She is proactive in offering help, as shown when she reached out to Michelle during the co-release coordinator role process. This type of outreach helps people feel seen and supported, contributing to a positive team dynamic.Being Comfortable with the Unknown and Seeking Help: Mary highlights that it's okay not to have all the answers. She encourages others to reach out when they don't know something, emphasizing that asking questions is an important part of learning and improving. This openness to seeking help fosters a growth-oriented environment, where curiosity and learning are welcomed.Mentioned in the Show:TikTokAutomatticWordPressWooCommerceWordPress.comTikTok shopeBay MotorsWalmartInstagramSaved by the BellStellarWPBuilt WithGranolaRobloxKadence Mark WestergaardWS FormZoomState of the WordPress ConfCloudFestDeLonghi Nespresso

In this podcast episode, host Michelle Frechette and guests Tamara Niesen and Beau Lebens.  They discuss WooCommerce's recent rebranding, emphasizing the distinction between "Woo" and "WooCommerce." Tamara highlights the importance of community and customer focus in their marketing strategy. Beau outlines the roadmap for WooCommerce, including improvements in core features, payment solutions, and shipping integrations. The episode underscores WooCommerce's commitment to evolving its platform to meet diverse business needs while maintaining strong community engagement and support.Top TakeawaysMarketing Focus on Community-Driven Development: WooCommerce's marketing approach emphasizes listening to merchants and the community. By integrating feedback into product development, they ensure their solutions address real user needs. This transparency strengthens trust and engagement with the ecosystem.Collaboration and Ecosystem Strength Matter: WooCommerce sees the entire ecosystem as interconnected—whether it's developers, merchants, or marketers. By improving core functionality and providing better tools, they aim to ensure that all WooCommerce-based businesses thrive, as their success reflects on the entire platform.Community Feedback is Essential: WooCommerce's marketing and product teams are committed to keeping the feedback loop open. They encourage users and developers to share their thoughts on new features, usability, and how the company can better support merchants and builders in the ecosystem.Mentioned in the Show:WooAutomatticStellarWPIconicOrderableSomewhere WarmElementor Kadence

In this episode of the "Get Hired" podcast, host  Nicky Bulmer and co-host Michelle Frechette interview Tatiane, an experienced WordPress developer. Tatiane shares her journey in WordPress development, emphasizing her skills in creating and customizing themes and plugins. The discussion covers Tatiane's approach to handling feedback, collaborating with teams, and optimizing WordPress sites. Nicky and Michelle provide Tatiane with resume and interview tips, highlighting the importance of clear communication and showcasing both technical and soft skills. The episode concludes with practical advice for job seekers, reinforcing the podcast's mission to enhance job application materials and interview skills.Top Takeaways:Cover Letters Should Be Concise & Tailored – A strong cover letter shouldn't just repeat the resume. Instead, it should highlight why your skills and experience are a great fit for the specific role and company. Less is often more—focusing on one key project or skill that directly relates to the job can make a stronger impact than listing everything.Confidence & Clarity Matter in Interviews – Candidates should confidently communicate their skills, especially when discussing technical expertise. Using specific language, such as naming programming languages or frameworks, helps interviewers understand the depth of knowledge. Additionally, if an interviewer has an accent or uses unfamiliar words, repeating for clarification or asking them to rephrase is a good strategy.Continuous Improvement & Adaptability Lead to Success – Surrounding yourself with the language, culture, and best practices of your industry (as Tatiane did with English) makes growth easier. Being open to feedback, refining application materials, and improving communication skills over time can significantly increase job prospects.Mentioned In The Show:The Events Calendar Liquid WebDungeons and DragonsGitHub WPIncludes.me

In this episode of the Post Status Happiness Hour, host Michelle Frechette interviews Stephanie Hudson from StellarWP about Stellar Pay, a new payment gateway plugin for WordPress users. Stephanie, the Product Marketing Manager, discusses her background in web development and marketing. They explore Stellar Pay's features, including its integration with Stripe, subscription management, and no additional fees for essential features. They also address e-commerce challenges like shipping and taxes and future plans for Stellar Pay, including potential PayPal integration. Additionally, Stephanie teases the upcoming launch of Stellar Sites, a new website solution combining the best features of popular platforms with WordPress's power.Top Takeaways:Stellar Pay Simplifies E-Commerce: Stellar Pay is designed for those who either actively run e-commerce businesses or avoid it because they find it difficult. The tool aims to make the process easier and more accessible.Free and Easy to Get Started: Users can download Stellar Pay for free from the website. Signing up directly on the site comes with added benefits like onboarding tips and extra resources to help users get started.Stellar Pay Provides E-Commerce Tips: The team behind Stellar Pay offers a newsletter that provides useful insights and strategies for running an online store successfully. Michelle encouraged users to subscribe for ongoing guidance.Mentioned In The Show:StellarWPStellar PayLiquid WebGive WPThe Event CalendarSolidWPLearndashRestrict Content ProDevin WalkerStripeJoel ButlerPayPalPoodle PressBen Ritner WP Accessibility DaySolid AcademyJono Alderson

In this podcast episode, host Michelle Frechette and guest Marcus Burnette discuss the importance of contributing to the WordPress community. Michelle highlights updating WordPress.org profiles and the "Five for the Future" initiative. Marcus introduces his project, The WP World which connects WordPress users by aggregating profile information and event details. They explore features like business directories, user ratings, and privacy options. The episode emphasizes the value of community engagement, showcasing contributions, and leveraging tools like The WP World to foster connections and enhance the WordPress ecosystem.Top Takeaways:WP World Enhances WordPress Community Connections – WP World is a platform that helps WordPress professionals showcase their contributions, connect with others, and enhance their visibility in the WordPress ecosystem. It complements WordPress.org profiles by allowing users to add more details and interact with community members.Community Engagement is a Priority – Beyond just networking, WP World fosters deeper engagement through features like WP Speakers, interactive maps, and a focus on celebrating community members. The discussion highlighted the value of making meaningful connections in the WordPress space and how WP World serves as a tool to strengthen those relationships.WP World Encourages Contribution Tracking – The platform makes it easier for WordPress professionals to log and showcase their contributions within the ecosystem. By maintaining an updated profile, users can highlight their involvement in various WordPress-related projects, events, and communities.Mentioned In The Show:Five for the FutureWP Worldwordpress.orgBluehostBluehost CloudGitHub SlackGravatarStellarWPWP SpeakersHero PressPress Conf Stellar Spark

In this episode, Anna James Healy, Senior Vice President of Government and Community Relations at Sentara Health, discusses how Sentara is addressing social determinants of health and investing in community-driven care. Anna also shares her expertise on healthcare policy trends, including Medicaid expansion and the importance of listening to communities to drive better health outcomes.

In this episode, we sit down with Elisha González, Vice President of Community Relations and Government Affairs of FAIRWINDS Credit Union and Executive Director of the FAIRWINDS Foundation. You'll hear her inspiring story and journey from educator to banking executive while discovering practical insights on financial literacy and community development. Learn how the FAIRWINDS Foundation is breaking down barriers through its $400,000 investment in local organizations and financial education programs that reached over 200,000 people. Elisha also shares valuable perspectives on leadership, risk-taking, and creating opportunities for entrepreneurs in underserved communities as chair of the Hispanic Chamber of Metro Orlando.

In this episode of the Post Status Happiness Hour, host Michelle Frechette interviews Taco Verdonschot from Progress Planner, a tool designed to gamify WordPress website maintenance. They highlight the tool's features, including its free and upcoming pro versions, and emphasize its role in making website upkeep engaging and fun. Taco announces a limited-time pre-launch sale, offering the planner at a discounted rate. They also discuss the importance of user feedback and community engagement, and preview upcoming content, including a discussion with Stephanie Hudson about Stellar Pay. The episode concludes with a call to action for listeners to try the Progress Planner.Top Takeaways:Gamification for Website Management: Progress Planner uses a gamified approach to motivate users to maintain and improve their websites. By assigning points for tasks like updating content, writing new posts, or fixing technical SEO issues, the plugin makes website management engaging and enjoyable. This concept mirrors successful apps like Duolingo, which transform routine tasks into rewarding challenges.Practical Features with Growth Potential: The plugin focuses on high-impact tasks that enhance website performance, such as setting up foundational site elements or optimizing content. It also plans to introduce integrations with third-party tools like JIRA and onboarding wizards, offering users more flexibility. Future features may include personalized task recommendations, progress tracking for agencies managing multiple sites, and expanded customization options, making it even more versatile.Community Feedback and Accessibility:User feedback is central to the development of Progress Planner. The team actively invites suggestions and critiques to refine the tool and better address user needs. Additionally, its pricing model—offering a pre-launch discount and a free tier—makes it accessible to a wide audience. With its colorful bird-themed branding, the plugin presents an approachable and motivating experience for website owners.Mentioned In The ShowProgress PlannerJoost van ValkMarieke van de RaktFitbitDuolingoWordCamp AsiaMarcus BurnetteTheWPWorldwordpress.orgGravatarWPSpeakers.comHero PressStephanie HudsonStellarWPStellarPay

In this episode of the Post Status Happiness Hour, host Michelle Frechette interviews Ian Stewart, a seasoned WordPress enthusiast and lead at WordPress.com. They discuss Ian's journey with WordPress since 2006 and his role at Automattic. The focus shifts to "Studio," a local development environment for WordPress. Ian highlights Studio's features, including ephemeral sites and an AI assistant, which simplify development and enhance learning. They also discuss the educational potential of Studio and its future developments. The episode underscores the importance of community feedback and continuous improvement in the WordPress ecosystem.Top TakeawaysFocus on Data Liberation: Ian emphasizes the importance of making it easy for users to export data and move away from WordPress.com if they choose. This includes offering flexibility in database options and ensuring there are clear workflows for migrating data from Studio.Encouragement for Open-Source Contributions: Ian highlights that Studio is open-source and encourages users to contribute by reporting issues, suggesting features, or even forking the repository to experiment with new ideas.WordPress.com's Growing Feature Set: Ian addresses the misconception that WordPress.com doesn't support plugins or themes. He encourages users to explore the pro-level tools available on WordPress.com, such as Studio, which help users manage and customize their sites more effectively.Mentioned In The ShowBloggerDrupalThemeShaper.comCorey Miller AutomatticWordPress.comJamie MarslandStudio Steve JobsWP EnvironmentDockerComposer GitHubSQLite Suno AITaco VerdoProgress Planner

A Deep Dive into the Hard Rock 100 with Race Director Dale In this episode, Scott chats with Dale, the race director of the Hard Rock 100 Endurance Run. They discuss Dale's personal journey, the origins and evolution of the Hard Rock 100, and his experiences as both an educator and a race director. Dale shares insights on the importance of community in the race, the logistics involved with organizing the event, and how the race has positively affected the local economy. They also delve into the challenges of maintaining the course, managing the lottery system, and advice for new participants. The episode wraps up with tips on race directing, emphasizing the significance of relationships and effective communication.   00:00 Catch-Up and Family Life 00:49 Professional Background and Retirement 02:28 Exploring Local Trails 02:53 Teaching Career and Passion for Leadership 04:33 Introduction to Hard Rock 100 04:56 Founding and Early Days of Hard Rock 100 07:00 Course Mapping and Permitting Challenges 07:53 Managing Hard Rock 100 16:21 Economic Impact and Community Relations 27:20 Lottery System and Community Building 31:31 The Significance of 146 Participants 33:19 Challenges of Managing the Lottery System 36:00 Technological Advancements in Ultra Running 36:46 Funding and Philanthropy Efforts 41:33 Memorable Moments and Finishers 46:34 Future of Hard Rock and Ultra Running 48:32 Advice for First-Time Ultra Race Directors 52:31 Conclusion and Final Thoughts