Podcasts about community relations

In this podcast episode, host Michelle Frechette interviews Remco Nieuwenhuis, a WordPress professional from the Netherlands and founder of WPSupporters and WPoptic. Remco shares his journey from military and police service to tech entrepreneurship, discusses the creation of WP Optic—a fast, accurate browser extension for detecting WordPress themes and plugins—and demonstrates its features live. The conversation covers challenges, future plans, and community involvement, ending with the host encouraging listeners to try WP Optic and announcing a brief podcast break for WordCamp US.Top Takeaways:WPoptic is a fast, WordPress-focused browser extension: Remco Nieuwenhuizen developed WPoptic to quickly detect if a site is built with WordPress, along with its themes and plugins. Unlike broader tools like BuiltWith or Wappalyzer, WPoptic focuses specifically on WordPress and boasts near-instant detection speeds, currently identifying around 17,000 plugins with plans to expand to over 50,000.Development involved overcoming early challenges: The first version of WPoptic was built by an overseas developer but lacked scalability, security, and depth in plugin detection. After receiving feedback from a competitor-turned-collaborator, Remco decided to rebuild the tool from scratch, prioritizing speed, security, and accuracy. This pivot confirmed market demand and improved the product's professional quality.Growth and monetization plans center on data and community: WPoptic has around 800 Chrome users and aims to monetize through features like an export function, AI-assisted plugin detection, and potentially dashboards for plugin developers to track installations and competition. Remco emphasizes organic growth, user feedback, and avoiding heavy reliance on advertising, preferring to fund development through his other business, WPSupporters.Mentioned In The Show:WPopticWaveBuilt WithWPSupportersWappalyzerWPfounders article about Remco NieuwenhuizenElementorWPBakeryDivi

If your student is exploring colleges—or you're just starting to look ahead—you're in the right place. Today, Caroline Moassessi, FAACT's VP of Community Relations, will talk about starting the college search when food allergies are in the mix. She'll share two essential checklists from FAACT's College Resource Center—one for parents and one for students—to help you work together and cover all the bases from the start. Resources to keep you in the know:FAACT's College Resource CenterFAACT's Private Facebook group for Parents/Caregivers of High School and College Students with Food AllergiesFor Parents/Caregivers College ChecklistsFor Students College ChecklistsLegal Considerations (College)FAACT's Roundtable Podcasts:Ep. 172: College Series, Part 4 - Emergencies Happen Ep. 171: College Series, Part 3 - Going OutEp. 170: College Series, Part 2 - Defining Safe at CollegeEp. 169: College Series, Part 1 - RoommatesYou can find FAACT's Roundtable Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Pandora, Spotify, Podbay, iHeart Radio, or wherever you listen to podcasts.Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, BlueSky, Threads, LinkedIn, Pinterest, TikTok, and YouTube.Sponsored by: DBV TechnologiesThanks for listening! FAACT invites you to discover more exciting food allergy resources at FoodAllergyAwareness.org!

In this episode of Cache Up, host Michelle Frechette chats with Miriam Schwab, Head of WordPress at Elementor, about the company's latest innovations. They discuss new products like the Image Optimizer, Site Mailer, Ally accessibility plugin, and Angie, Elementor's AI assistant. Miriam shares insights on Elementor's codebase revamp for better performance, the company's commitment to accessibility, and the growing role of AI in WordPress. The conversation also highlights Elementor's community involvement, especially at WordCamp US, and the expanding availability of their tools beyond just Elementor users.Top Takeaways:Elementor Expands Beyond Page Building: Elementor is rapidly evolving beyond its roots as a page builder, expanding into a full suite of standalone tools that serve broader WordPress needs. These include utilities like Site Mailer for email deliverability, Image Optimizer for performance, Ally for accessibility, and the soon-to-launch AI assistant Angie. Importantly, many of these tools work independently of Elementor, making them accessible to all WordPress users regardless of their chosen builder.AI Integration is Shaping the Future of Elementor: A major focus for Elementor is integrating AI to streamline website creation and management. From Site Planner, which generates a full website structure from a prompt, to Ally's AI-powered accessibility fixes, and Angie's promise of automating time-consuming tasks, Elementor is positioning AI as a core part of the WordPress user experience. This not only increases efficiency but helps WordPress remain competitive and user-friendly in an AI-driven era.Performance and Speed Take Center Stage with Version 4: Elementor is addressing long-standing concerns about performance by refactoring its aging codebase. Version 4 (V4) of the page builder brings improvements in speed, cleaner code, and better development workflows. This overhaul is designed to benefit both end users, who will see faster websites, and developers, who will gain the ability to deploy new features more quickly and cleanly.Mentioned in the Show:ElementorW3TechsImage OptimizerAllySite Planner AngieWP Accessibility DayUnderrepresented in Tech

We're exploring FAACT's College Resource Center to show you how to make the most of everything it offers. FAACT's Vice President of Community Relations, Caroline Moassessi, will discuss how you can help your student explore college options and prepare to start—or return to—college life. But we're not just talking about packing bags and picking dorms. We're tackling the critical, often overlooked details of navigating college safely with food allergies.Resources to keep you in the know:FAACT's College Resource CenterFAACT's Private Facebook group for Parents/Caregivers of High School and College Students with Food AllergiesFor Parents/Caregivers College ChecklistsFor Students College ChecklistsLegal Considerations (College)Behavioral Health - Mental WellnessDisaster Preparedness at College with Food Allergies FAACT's Roundtable Podcasts:Ep. 172: College Series, Part 4 - Emergencies Happen Ep. 171: College Series, Part 3 - Going OutEp. 170: College Series, Part 2 - Defining Safe at CollegeEp. 169: College Series, Part 1 - RoommatesYou can find FAACT's Roundtable Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Pandora, Spotify, Podbay, iHeart Radio, or wherever you listen to podcasts.Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, BlueSky, Threads, LinkedIn, Pinterest, TikTok, and YouTube.Sponsored by: GenentechThanks for listening! FAACT invites you to discover more exciting food allergy resources at FoodAllergyAwareness.org!

Send us a MessageA positive organizational culture is reflected in employee interactions with the community.In this episode of Culture Change RX, Sue Tetzlaff speaks with Sara Giles, the marketing director at Schoolcraft Memorial Hospital, about the evolution of community engagement and employee relations within the organization. They discuss the importance of building relationships, the impact of employee contributions, and the strategic alignment of community events with local needs. Sara shares insights on the SMH Cares program, which incentivizes employee participation in community initiatives, and highlights the hospital's commitment to fostering a positive organizational culture. The conversation culminates in a celebration of the hospital's 75th anniversary and its ongoing commitment to engaging with the community. Community engagement is essential for building trust and market share.Employee involvement in community initiatives enhances job satisfaction and retention.The best hospital ambassadors are your people.The SMH Cares program rewards employees for their community service efforts.Strategic planning is crucial for aligning community events with local needs.Building relationships with community partners is key to successful engagement.Celebrating milestones, like the 75th anniversary, strengthens community ties.Innovative events can revitalize traditional community engagement efforts.Engaging employees in community marketing is proving to be more effective than traditional advertising.Reach us at CapstoneLeadership.net or info@capstoneleadership.net

The latest episode of the Tahoe TAP podcast puts a spotlight on Truckee's business landscape with a special guest who's helping shape it — Jessica Penman, President and CEO of the Truckee Chamber of Commerce. Hosts Mike Peron and Rob Galloway kick off the episode with their signature roundup of regional happenings before diving into a fireside-style conversation with Penman, who took the helm of the Chamber in October 2022. Since stepping into the leadership role, Penman has worked to amplify the voice of Truckee's business community while promoting economic development and community engagement. During the interview, Penman shares her journey from growing up visiting Truckee on weekends and holidays to now calling it her permanent home. She brings a diverse background to the role, having previously served as Director of Community Relations for the Yountville Chamber of Commerce in Napa County. With extensive experience in marketing, sales, membership relations, and workforce development, she brings a forward-thinking approach to supporting local businesses. Penman also discusses her academic roots — holding a BA in Anthropology and Classical Civilizations from the University of Arizona and an MA in Egyptian Archaeology from University College London — and how her global experiences in Italy, Egypt, and England have shaped her community-first philosophy. Outside the office, Penman is an avid hiker and paddleboarder, often exploring the Sierra Nevada with her boyfriend and their puppy, Auggie. Listeners can tune into the full episode of Tahoe TAP to hear Penman's thoughts on community building, chamber initiatives, and what excites her most about Truckee's future. The Tahoe TAP podcast, hosted by Peron and Galloway, continues to explore the people, adventures, and culture that define life around Lake Tahoe.

CEO Ron Hochstein joins Chris Mancini, CFA (Assistant Portfolio Manager, Gabelli Gold Fund) to discuss Lundin Gold, the development and impact of their Fruta del Norte mine in Ecuador, and the possibilities for investors in the gold industry. 0:00 - 2:20: Introduction 2:20 - 6:10: Ron's Background and the Start of Lundin Gold 6:10 - 9:50: The Opportunity 9:50 - 14:30: Tax Regime and Why It Works 14:30 - 19:44: Community Relations 19:44 - 21:17: Lundin Foundation 21:17 - 24:50: Operating Culture 24:50 - 27:56: Exploration Upside 27:56 - 30:07: M&A Strategy 30:07 - 31:50: Other Lundin Companies 31:50 - : Q&A To learn more about Gabelli Funds' fundamental, research-driven approach to investing, visit https://m.gabelli.com/gtv_cu or email invest@gabelli.com. Connect with Gabelli Funds:• X - https://x.com/InvestGabelli• Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/investgabelli/ • Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/InvestGabelli • LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/investgabelli/ http://www.Gabelli.com Invest with Us 1-800-GABELLI (800-422-3554) Caesar Bryan is Portfolio Managerfor The Gabelli Gold Fund, The Gabelli International Growth Fund and TheGabelli International Small Cap Fund. Chris Mancini, CFA is an AssociatePortfolio Manager for The Gabelli Gold Fund.As of March 31st, 2025, affiliates of GAMCO Investors, Inc.beneficially owned

In this episode of Get It Seen: The Simplest Way to Accessible Design host Michelle Frechette and typography expert Piccia Neri discuss the vital role of typography in web accessibility. They explore how factors like font choice, size, alignment, kerning, and style impact readability and legibility for all users, including those with visual or neurological differences. The conversation highlights common pitfalls—such as using all caps, centered text, or decorative fonts—and offers practical tips for creating accessible, user-friendly content. Real-world examples underscore how thoughtful typography can improve user experience and even boost website conversions. The episode concludes with a preview of next week's focus on color and contrast.Top Takeaways:Typography Is More Than Just Fonts — It's a Core Element of Accessibility: Typography includes not only font choices but also layout, spacing, alignment, font weight, size, line height, tracking, and visual hierarchy. These elements together shape how readable and legible text is, directly affecting accessibility and user experience.Readability and Legibility Are Different, and Both Matter: Legibility is about how easily individual letters can be distinguished (e.g., clear letterforms, avoiding imposter letters like I/l/1). Readability refers to how easily blocks of text can be read and understood (e.g., proper line length, avoiding full justification, using appropriate spacing). Both need to be considered when designing for diverse users, including those with dyslexia or visual impairments.Alignment Strongly Impacts Usability and Conversion: Left-aligned text is significantly easier to read, especially online. Centered or poorly aligned text disrupts the reader's visual flow and can make content inaccessible.There Are No Universally "Perfect" Accessible Typefaces: Recommendations like "use sans-serif fonts" or “Arial is accessible” are oversimplified. Accessibility depends on how the typeface is used, whether it distinguishes similar characters clearly (e.g., capital I vs. lowercase L), and whether it's appropriate for your audience. Typefaces like Atkinson Hyperlegible are designed with accessibility in mind, but even these aren't universally preferred.Mentioned in the Show:Don't Make Me Think Book By Steve KrugAtkinson HyperlegibleSöhne Klim Type Foundry National Klim Type FoundryJosef AlbersAccessible typeface checklist – free resourceAccessible Typography 101 course – 30% discount code: PODCAST30Better Accessibility Through Typography Masterclass – 30% discount code: PODCAST30

Julie Schumacher Cohen and Daysi Carreto from The University of Scranton Office of Community Relations, join hosts Parker Dorsey and Gerard Hetman in this episode of the Be a Neighbor podcast. We were excited to discuss their career and professional backgrounds, the ways their office connects the University of Scranton and the greater Scranton community, highlights from initiatives they have organized, how their activities reflect the university's Jesuit mission, and more!

On this edition of DMOU, we welcome Destination Door County CEO Julie Gilbert to discuss how under-managed tourism had begun to challenge the summer retreat of my youth. A half a century ago, Door County was a quaint, easy to maneuver vacation destination for those of us who had discovered these unique villages. As she arrived in 2021, it was clear that action was needed to preserve paradise. In this episode, we'll discuss Sustainability, Community Relations and developing a substantial Grant Program that endears the DMO to its residents. Join us.

In this episode of Cache Up, host Michelle Frechette chats with Clem Omotoso and Mary Baum about WordCamp Canada 2025. Clem, a newcomer to WordPress, shares his journey from student to event volunteer, while Mary, an experienced organizer, discusses the event's programming, community spirit, and accessibility. The conversation highlights the excitement around meeting fellow WordPress enthusiasts, the value of informal networking, and the unique features of the Ottawa venue. Listeners are encouraged to attend, volunteer, or sponsor, making WordCamp Canada 2025 a welcoming and memorable experience for all.Top Takeaways:WordCamp Canada Fosters Community and Welcomes Newcomers: Clem Omotosho's journey from student to WordCamp Canada volunteer highlights how welcoming and accessible the WordPress community is. With encouragement from experienced community members like Michelle and Mary, newcomers are not only embraced but quickly integrated into organizing teams and events. The spirit of connection, support, and shared learning was a central theme throughout the conversation.Hosting WordCamp on a College Campus Enhances Accessibility and Atmosphere: Returning to Carleton University in Ottawa, WordCamp Canada 2025 will benefit from a venue that naturally supports learning, accessibility, and social interaction. College campuses offer built-in amenities like classrooms, accessible pathways, and communal spaces, making them ideal for events focused on knowledge-sharing and community building.A Dual-Track Program Highlights WordPress's Future and Foundations: The 2025 event will feature two main speaker tracks: one focused on practical sessions for users, developers, and business owners, and another forward-looking track exploring topics like AI, the fediverse, and the future of the open web. With keynote speakers like Dave Winer and Evan (surname TBD), the program aims to engage both seasoned professionals and curious newcomers alike.Mentioned in the Show:WordCamp Canada

In this podcast episode, host Michelle Frechette is interviewed by Macus Burnette to introduce "WP Trail Buddies," Michelle's initiative to help newcomers at large WordCamp events feel welcome and connected. The program pairs first-time attendees with experienced veterans for mentorship and support, easing anxiety and fostering community. Michelle shares her own WordCamp experiences, explains how the free, volunteer-driven project works, and discusses the broader importance of mentorship in the WordPress community. The conversation highlights the value of inclusion, friendship, and support, encouraging listeners to join and help make WordCamps more accessible for everyone.Top Takeaways:WP Trail Buddies Is a Volunteer-Led Mentorship Program: Michelle Frechette created WP Trail Buddies as a free, volunteer-based initiative to pair WordCamp veterans with newcomers to help them feel more comfortable at large flagship events like WordCamp US. The program is powered by free tools like Google Forms and WordPress.com, and even includes GDPR-compliant data practices. Although unsponsored, some organizations like Newfold have volunteered to provide swag like stickers and pins.The Focus Is on Flagship and Large WordCamps—for Now: Due to Michelle managing the project solo, WP Trail Buddies is currently limited to larger WordCamps (typically 250+ attendees). While open to expanding to other events in the future—like WordCamp Canada—the priority is on keeping things manageable and scalable. She's open to conversations with other camps that may want to adopt the model.WordCamps Are About Community and Belonging: Michelle emphasized how transformative WordCamps have been for her personally—from knowing no one at her first WordCamp Buffalo to attending nearly 100 events and mentoring others. She and Marcus both stressed that the true value of WordCamps lies in the friendships, mentorship, and support network built over time. Programs like Trail Buddies help foster this sense of inclusion from the start.Mentioned In The Show:WP Trail BuddiesWPIncludes.meThe WP World

Joining Africa Melane for a wide-ranging conversation is Megan Taplin, Manager of Table Mountain National Park at SANParks. She responds directly to the safety concerns and outlines how the park is working to protect visitors while also setting the record straight on crime data and response timelines. But beyond the headlines of fear, there is another important story unfolding — one of measured, science-based management that recently earned the Park a 75% score in its independent park management plan assessment. Presenter John Maytham is an actor and author-turned-talk radio veteran and seasoned journalist. His show serves a round-up of local and international news coupled with the latest in business, sport, traffic and weather. The host’s eclectic interests mean the program often surprises the audience with intriguing book reviews and inspiring interviews profiling artists. A daily highlight is Rapid Fire, just after 5:30pm. CapeTalk fans call in, to stump the presenter with their general knowledge questions. Another firm favourite is the humorous Thursday crossing with award-winning journalist Rebecca Davis, called “Plan B”. Thank you for listening to a podcast from Afternoon Drive with John Maytham Listen live on Primedia+ weekdays from 15:00 and 18:00 (SA Time) to Afternoon Drive with John Maytham broadcast on CapeTalk https://buff.ly/NnFM3Nk For more from the show go to https://buff.ly/BSFy4Cn or find all the catch-up podcasts here https://buff.ly/n8nWt4x Subscribe to the CapeTalk Daily and Weekly Newsletters https://buff.ly/sbvVZD5 Follow us on social media: CapeTalk on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CapeTalk CapeTalk on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@capetalk CapeTalk on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ CapeTalk on X: https://x.com/CapeTalk CapeTalk on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CapeTalk567 See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this podcast episode, Michelle Frechette interviews Natalie MacLee and Nathan Tyler, co-founders of NSquared. They discuss their journey from developing popular WordPress plugins to launching SaaS products like Aaardvark, an accessibility platform, and Blink Metrics, a data management tool for small businesses. The conversation covers the challenges of fragmented business data, the importance of web accessibility, and the differences between WordPress plugins and SaaS solutions, highlighting N Squared's commitment to innovation and supporting both the WordPress community and broader digital needs.Top Takeaways:From WordPress Roots to SaaS Expansion: Natalie MacLees and Nathan Tyler started with successful WordPress plugins like Simply Schedule Appointments and Draw Attention. Realizing some challenges couldn't be solved within WordPress alone, they expanded into SaaS to build scalable tools that work both inside and outside the WordPress ecosystem.Introducing Aaardvark and Blink Metrics: Their new tools—Aaardvark and Blink Metrics—tackle accessibility and data overwhelm. Aaardvark offers automated and manual accessibility testing, with WordPress integration. Blink Metrics pulls data from multiple sources into a centralized, easy-to-read dashboard for small businesses, simplifying decision-making.Prioritizing Accessibility and Innovation:Accessibility is a major focus. Aaardvark is developing an AI tool to check color contrast in complex designs and supports multilingual websites. They're also launching Aaardvark Circle, a community to help professionals improve accessibility in their work.The Marketing Challenge of SaaS vs. WordPress: Marketing SaaS is harder than WordPress plugins, which get exposure through WordPress.org. SaaS tools require outreach and education to build awareness. Natalie and Nathan are leaning into this challenge to grow beyond the WordPress bubble.Coexistence of Platforms and a Broader Mission: Though they're expanding into SaaS, Natalie and Nathan still actively support their WordPress products. They believe in building tools that work across platforms, aiming to improve accessibility and usability for the entire web—not just WordPress users.Mentioned In The Show:N SquaredDraw AttentionSimply Schedule AppointmentsCalendlyAAArdvarkBlink MetricsSimple Client Dashboard 

Regional planning isn't just about roads and rails. It's about building the future of a place, one decision, one partnership, and one policy at a time. In this week's episode, we sat down with Joe Garrity, Senior Director of Government Affairs and Community Relations at the Mid-Ohio Regional Planning Commission (MORPC). The post The Politics and Promise of a Growing Region appeared first on The Confluence Cast.

Bryan Barrett talks with Regan Love, Community Relations & Development Director with the local Salvation Army. She discusses previous and current camps, "Christmas in July

In this Euractiv Thought Leadership Interview, journalist Dave Keating sits down with Javier Silva, Head of Sustainability and Community Relations at SQM, one of the world's largest lithium producers. Javier discusses Chile's pivotal role in the global lithium supply, the unique challenges of operating in the Atacama Desert, and SQM's evolving approach to sustainability and social responsibility.The conversation dives deep into:- How lithium is extracted sustainably from the Salar de Atacama- SQM's community outreach efforts and long-term partnerships with indigenous communities- Addressing water use and environmental concerns in one of the driest places on Earth- Empowering indigenous women through the AMA project- Building trust, transparency, and international cooperation with the EU- Planning for a future beyond mining for local communitiesJavier emphasizes the importance of genuine relationships, co-created programs, and respectful engagement, offering a compelling look at how the future of clean energy must also be socially and ethically responsible.

In this podcast episode, host Michelle Frechette  and guest Sam Waines from Barn 2 Plugins dive into the world of video content creation within the WordPress community. They discuss practical tips on equipment, editing software, and the importance of audio quality. Both share personal experiences, challenges, and lessons learned, emphasizing storytelling and authenticity as keys to audience engagement. The conversation also covers adapting to trends like short-form video and balancing technical skills with creativity. The episode offers actionable advice and inspiration for aspiring content creators looking to improve their video production and connect with viewers.Top TakeawaysContent Is King—Even with Imperfect Production: Across the discussion, Michelle and Sam stress that storytelling, relevance, and usefulness matter more than having flawless lighting, audio, or editing. Viewers are drawn to authentic, valuable stories, not just polished visuals. Imperfection is not a deal-breaker if the message resonates.You Don't Need Expensive Gear to Get Started: Michelle began her podcast with just her built-in Mac mic; Sam started with a $12 lav mic. Both reinforced that starting with what you have—whether it's free software like Audacity, basic webcams, or a phone—is more than enough. You can upgrade incrementally as your content and skills grow.Audio Setup and Environment Make a Big Difference: Simple adjustments like mic placement, soundproofing with rugs or curtains, and checking input levels (especially after software updates) can dramatically improve audio quality. Sam recommends keeping recording levels around 25–50% and watching for clipping using tools like OBS or native Mac settings.Mentioned In The Show:Barn 2 PluginsNomad With UsDaVinci ResolveBlue YetiSony a6400WordPress.orgElementorStreamYardZoom Adobe RushAudacityDescript GarageBand iMovie Screen StudioMira teleprompter software

Let us know what you think! Text us!In this powerful episode of Security Halt!, former law enforcement officer Jeff Wenninger opens up about his 30-year journey in policing—from the gritty streets of Los Angeles to the front lines of community reform. Jeff shares raw, firsthand insights into the realities of policing violent neighborhoods, navigating the cultural complexities of diverse communities, and living through the infamous Rampart Scandal.More than just a career retrospective, this conversation dives deep into the importance of empathy, mentorship, and leadership in modern law enforcement. Jeff discusses how training, accountability, and compassion must evolve to better serve both officers and the public they protect. Whether you're a veteran, first responder, or concerned citizen, this episode sheds light on the future of policing and how to lead with integrity and purpose.

In this podcast episode, host Michelle Frechette  welcomes Felix Arntz, a senior software engineer at Google, about his decade of contributions to the WordPress community. Felix shares insights on effective communication, persistence, and attention to detail in open-source collaboration. He highlights the importance of building relationships, learning from others, and embracing the welcoming nature of the WordPress community. The episode also introduces Felix's new "View Transitions" plugin, designed to enhance user experience. Listeners are encouraged to engage, contribute, and build connections within the WordPress ecosystem.Top Takeaways:Attention to Detail Is a Key Marker of ProfessionalismFelix and Michelle emphasized that small details—like capitalizing the "P" in WordPress—may seem trivial but are taken seriously by seasoned professionals. This attention to detail reflects pride in one's work and often becomes a litmus test for developers and marketers alike when assessing quality and seriousness.Thinking at Scale and Growing Gradually Are Crucial in Open Source Contribution: Felix discussed the importance of thinking at scale, especially when contributing to WordPress core. A feature might work well for a blog with 80 posts but break down on a site with tens of thousands. Additionally, contributors are encouraged to increase scope gradually, starting with bug fixes, so they can build trust, demonstrate commitment, and avoid burnout or disappointment when larger proposals stall.Personal Motivation Can Guide Your Niche in Open Source Work: Felix shared how his contributions to WordPress core initially grew out of real-world problems he encountered during freelance work. This insight reinforces the idea that contributors should follow their authentic interests and pain points when selecting where to focus their energy, making their efforts more sustainable and impactful.Relationships and Community Are the Heart of the WordPress Project: Michelle and Felix agreed that building personal relationships—whether at WordCamps, online, or through collaborative work—is not just rewarding personally, but also essential for project momentum. Felix shared how meeting someone briefly in person changes how online collaboration feels. Michelle told a moving story about how her community connections helped her navigate an inaccessible travel situation, underscoring the tangible power of WordPress friendships.Mentioned in the Show:This Week in WordPressFelix-Arntz.me

Business with Purpose & Feeding Halifax: Featuring Ryland Clark of Hitachi Energy In our latest segment of Ten Minutes of Truth, we had the privilege of sitting down with Ryland Clark, Community Relations & Engagement Manager at Hitachi Energy, South Boston, VA, and a member of the Halifax County Industrial Development Board.We had no idea just how deeply Ryland—and Hitachi as a whole—were touching lives across Halifax County. From supporting recovery and re-entry efforts to feeding food-insecure families through Feeding Halifax, their quiet but powerful impact runs deep.In this short segment, Ryland shares what he's learned from the Engaging Halifax Study and speaks to the vital role businesses can play in helping individuals rebuild their lives after substance use or incarceration. He also explains how the Industrial Development Board is creating job pathways for returning citizens, turning compassion into economic opportunity.And here's the thing: Ryland stayed an extra 30 minutes after our official interview—because there was more to say. More stories. More heart. More hope. Shawn felt it was too important to miss and recorded a second segment that will move you and challenge you to see the power of partnership.Shawn shared, “This is exactly how Ten Minutes of Truth can stand beside leaders like Ryland and organizations like Hitachi—by lending our platform to help feed Halifax and support second chances.” Want to get involved? Reach out to Ryland Clark at Hitachi Energy or contact the Halifax County Industrial Development Board to see how your business can make a real impact. Listen to this short segment today on Ten Minutes of Truth with Shawn A. Barksdale, available on all major podcast platforms and on Facebook at Ten Minutes of Truth and Boots On The Ground.Let's stand together—for recovery, for second chances, and for a Halifax where no one is forgotten.#TenMinutesOfTruth #RylandClark #HitachiEnergy #FeedingHalifax #HalifaxCounty #RecoveryAndReentry #CommunityLeadership #BootsOnTheGround #EngagingHalifax #BusinessWithHeart #SecondChances #PodcastWithPurpose

In this episode of the Post Status Happiness Hour, Michelle Frechette and June Lui introduce Speed Network Online, a new virtual networking initiative for the WordPress community and beyond. They discuss the origins of the idea, event logistics, and the benefits of relaxed, pressure-free networking. The hosts explain how the event will operate, including registration, costs, and future dates, emphasizing the importance of building genuine connections and fostering collaboration in a supportive environment.Top Takeaways:Speed Network Online Was Born from a Real Networking Challenge: The idea originated during a casual conversation where June expressed her struggles expanding her network at large events like WordCamps. Michelle immediately acted on the concept, purchasing a domain and jumpstarting the project. This quick collaboration shows the power of shared vision and execution between community members.The Format Focuses on Accessibility and Practicality: Speed Network Online is designed to be a virtual, low-pressure alternative to traditional networking events. It uses Zoom breakout rooms for one-on-one chats and provides participants with a spreadsheet of contact info afterward, eliminating the need for frantic note-taking. The event is purposefully inclusive, affordable at $20, and structured to reduce anxiety and improve accessibility.The Platform Encourages Relationship-Building, Not Just Pitching: Unlike speed dating or surface-level interactions, the goal is not to “close deals” or just market yourself but to build a lasting network of complementary professionals. The event supports deeper connections that may evolve into partnerships, project collaborations, or referrals over time.Speed Network Online Is Community-Driven and Evolving: June built the website from scratch, and they've begun promoting the project through a new Twitter (X) account: @SpeedNetOnline. They also encourage participants to create WP World profiles to make it easier to stay connected post-event. Michelle emphasizes that these types of grassroots initiatives are powered by genuine collaboration and shared community goals.Mentioned In The Show:Backpocket AceWP Accessibility daySpeed Network OnlineThe WP WorldZoomMark Westguard WS FormNathan TylerN SquaredMeet Michelle.online

In this final episode of our Beyond the Paycheck series, we dive into the financial basics that often get overlooked but are essential for building long-term stability and peace of mind. Joined by Richard Stirgus, Vice President of Community Relations at TAPCO Credit Union, we explore how to create sustainable budgeting habits, navigate the evolving world of digital banking, and choose the right financial tools without falling into hidden fee traps. Richard also breaks down credit fundamentals, from understanding APR to building a strong credit score, and offers practical tips for staying motivated on your financial journey—no matter your age or starting point. Whether you're a young worker figuring out your first budget or someone rethinking your finances later in life, this conversation is packed with actionable steps to help you take charge of your financial future.

University of Florida's interim President Kent Fuch hires Clemmons as VP for Community Relations. Chuck is Gators, and long-time local college administrator at Santa Fe College

In this episode of the Post Status Happiness Hour, Michelle Frechette and Marcus Burnette introduce "Sponsor Me WP," a new platform designed to connect WordPress contributors with potential sponsors. They discuss the motivations behind the project, their collaborative development process, and the platform's user-friendly features. The conversation highlights the importance of community engagement, transparency, and direct connections between sponsors and contributors. Listeners are encouraged to provide feedback and share their experiences to help shape the platform's future, reflecting the hosts' commitment to supporting and empowering the WordPress community.Top Takeaways:Sponsor Me WP was created to connect WordPress contributors with sponsors in a simple, transparent way: Michelle and Marcus collaborated to launch Sponsor Me WP—a platform where WordPress community members can share their contributions and availability for sponsorship. It was born from Michelle's need to supplement her income after being laid off, combined with Marcus's technical skills and his existing work on WP World. The site allows contributors to create a profile, import data from WP World, and indicate their available hours for sponsorship, while letting sponsors reach out directly—no intermediaries, no money flowing through the platform.The platform is intentionally simple, inclusive, and community-driven: The site avoids complex monetization, user gating, or financial processing. It's designed to be lightweight and easy to use, with user control over profiles and direct sponsor-contributor communication. Michelle and Marcus emphasized that it welcomes both established and aspiring contributors, and they've taken steps to ensure fairness (e.g., randomized listing order) and community safety (e.g., ability to remove bad actors if needed).Michelle and Marcus are passionate about building community-first tools—and open to evolving based on feedback: They view this project (like WP World and WP Speakers) as a gift to the WordPress community. The hosting was donated, and their time volunteered. They're also actively seeking ideas for improvement or expansion, especially from people with experience in seeking or providing sponsorships. Their approach centers on reducing friction, encouraging transparency, and enabling community members to support each other's contributions meaningfully.Mentioned In The Show:KinstaWP WorldWP SpeakersUnderrepresented In TechSponsor Me WPGitHubSpeed Network OnlinePressable

Sarah McDonald, Associate Director of Media & Community Relations at PAWS Chicago, joins Lisa Dent to share details of their upcoming Beach Party on July 19th. Then, McDonald shares details about what is causing many Americans to give up their pets. PAWS Chicago is hosting their Giving Day on June 26th to raise money in […]

Welcome to Chatter with BNC, Business North Carolina's weekly podcast, serving up interviews with some of the Tar Heel State's most interesting people. Today's episode features the former Mayor of Raleigh, Mary-Ann Baldwin. She is now busy as the Executive Director of the Cooper Charitable Foundation, a Raleigh-based organization that partners with local nonprofits to provide housing stability grants for those in need; in tandem with her role as VP of Community Relations for Raleigh-based construction company Cooper Tacia.

In this podcast episode, host Michelle Frechette welcomes Carrie Dils, Mika Epstein, and Ryan McCue to discuss their roles in the WordPress community and the new FAIR project. The group explores FAIR's mission to create a federated independent repository system for WordPress plugins and themes, focusing on decentralization, community-driven moderation, inclusive governance, and privacy. They address challenges like supporting premium plugins, reducing environmental impact, and fostering global participation. The episode highlights FAIR's collaborative, open-source approach and invites listeners to get involved through GitHub and community meetings, aiming to shape a more innovative and inclusive WordPress ecosystem.Top Takeaways:FAIR Is Reimagining Plugin Discovery and Trust for WordPress: FAIR is building a more open, decentralized ecosystem for WordPress plugin discovery—empowering both end users and developers. By enabling verified directories and authenticated plugin listings (via methods like DNS verification), FAIR provides an alternative to the limitations of the WordPress.org repo, while increasing transparency, user safety, and trust.Community Participation Is Central to FAIR's Success: The FAIR initiative is deeply community-driven. Contributors are encouraged to get involved through GitHub Discussions, introduce themselves, offer help, or join working groups. The leadership team is intentionally building these groups based on people's skills and availability, rather than predefined roles—making FAIR flexible, inclusive, and open to evolving needs.FAIR Encourages Innovation Outside Traditional WordPress Constraints: The project provides an alternative path for plugin creators who may not want to follow the traditional WordPress.org model (e.g., having to release a free version first). With FAIR, creators can request to be listed in aggregator directories that are more flexible, values-aligned, or niche-focused—fostering innovation and lowering barriers to entry.FAIR Is Still in Early Development—and Actively Growing: While the FAIR plugin and protocol are live (accessible via fair.pm), the ecosystem is in its formative stages. The team is prioritizing essential needs (the “MVP”) and building infrastructure to support future growth in documentation, marketing, design, development, and user testing. They welcome feedback on plugin issues, conflicts, and ideas, encouraging broad experimentation and iteration.Mentioned in the Show:FAIRLinkedIn LearningAwesome MotiveLez Watch TVHuman MadeAspire PressGravatarLinux Foundation ProjectBlueskyWPCCBlack PressMastodon DrupalCourtney RobertsonAutomatticMediaWikiMonster InsightsGravity FormsFastly

In this episode of the Post Status Happiness Hour, host Michelle Frechette and Darian Lusk share their journey launching and managing the official WordPress.org TikTok account. They discuss overcoming initial nerves, embracing influencer marketing, and collaborating across generations to create daily, authentic, and engaging videos. The duo highlights their creative process, community-driven content, and the importance of spontaneity over corporate polish. They also reveal behind-the-scenes stories from WordCamp events, tease upcoming collaborations, and encourage audience participation, all while emphasizing the fun and connection at the heart of their WordPress TikTok adventure.Top Takeaways:TikTok is Being Used to Energize and Expand the WordPress Community: Michelle and Darian are using TikTok as a playful, engaging platform to showcase the global WordPress community. Their content captures behind-the-scenes moments at events like WordCamp Europe and aims to connect with younger, more diverse audiences in an authentic, unscripted way. The vibe is intentionally fun, personal, and accessible—not overly polished or corporate.Community and Team Collaboration are Key to Real-Time Content Success: The success of the TikTok initiative was made possible by the fast support of the Automattic team across time zones. From helping Michelle access the TikTok account while traveling, to teammates assisting with content ideas, the distributed team model enabled agile, in-the-moment content creation and reinforced the value of strong internal collaboration.Personal Joy, Humor, and Relationships Fuel the Project: Michelle and Darian's enthusiasm and personal connection shine throughout the project. Their humor, openness (including joking about stunts and family involvement), and genuine love for the WordPress community create a sense of fun that draws people in. They prioritize joy and connection as central to their content and outreach.Mentioned In The Show:TikTokAutomattic WordPress.orgAdobe PremierVid CapCap CutWP Community Collective

Hello Listen Local Listeners! Let's just get right into it. On today's show the Listen Local crew heads out to Cuyuna Regional Medical Center in Crosby to chat with Director of Foundations and Community Relations, Jennifer Lowe. Jacob, Colton and Isaiah have gotten to know Jennifer, and the CRMC Foundation, from over the years out at the CRMC Championship, through Lakes Area Heroes and BlazeAir's work with the hospital, so it was very fitting that she was the one representing CRMC on today's episode. Jennifer discusses everything from events, to the growth of CRMC at the hospital as well as around the Brainerd Lakes Area, CRMC taking home some awards at the Minnesota Hospitals Association Conference, and of course she dives into everything CRMC Championship. Huge thanks to Jennifer for taking time to be on the show! Plus, the crew talks about another busy weekend in the Lakes Area, why Jacob is in the Dog House, An exotic zoo in Crosslake, Minnesota Influencers take over the BLA and much more! And as always... HUGE Thanks to our sponsors Pequot Lakes and Gull Lake Sanitation, Hanneken Insurance, Hills Detailing Center, Craguns Legacy Courses, Pequot Lakes EDC, Refined Lending w/ John Kinkaede, Party Time Rental and our PRESENTING SPONSOR Lakes Area CPAs! Instagram: ListenLocalMNBlazeAirMNWoodsToWaterMNNorthwoodsAgent Facebook:Listen Local MNBlazeAirMNWoodsToWaterMN

ໃນວັນທີ 9 ເດືອນມິຖຸນາ ປີ 1975 'Radio Ethnic Australia' ໄດ້ເປີດໂຕ-ຊຶ່ງເປັນການທົດລອງທີ່ກ້າຫານ ໂດຍ Al Grassby, ຜູ້ເປັນກັມມາທິການຣັຖບານ ຄົນທໍາອິດ ດ້ານຄວາມສໍາພັນ ຂອງຊຸມຊົນ(Community Relations) ໃນຂນະນັ້ນ.

In this compilation episode of Highly Enlightened, host Jon Purow hits the road—capturing quick, insightful interviews with leading voices across the cannabis industry. Recorded at MJ Unpacked Missouri 2024, the WomenGrow Leadership Summit 2025, and the Benzinga New Jersey Cannabis Market Spotlight, this lineup showcases perspectives from founders, marketers, security experts, and more. Featured Guests: Jordan Mackenzie Whittaker The Weedaker Group Mitch Pfeifer Director of Community Relations, Active Sheila Fey Marketing Director, Elevated Roots Ian Powell Founder, Loud Minds TV Paul Vancea Kosmik Brands

Buffalo Mayor Chris Scanlon introduces the Buffalo Police Department's Foot Patrol Integration Unit - a citywide initiative aimed at strengthening community relations full 1099 Mon, 02 Jun 2025 17:00:00 +0000 kVwVKGo28HpwLiZN7ZhSuxjPD3ir8oTL buffalo,news,wben,buffalo police department,chris scanlon,broadway market WBEN Extras buffalo,news,wben,buffalo police department,chris scanlon,broadway market Buffalo Mayor Chris Scanlon introduces the Buffalo Police Department's Foot Patrol Integration Unit - a citywide initiative aimed at strengthening community relations Archive of various reports and news events 2024 © 2021 Audacy, Inc.

In this episode of the Post Status Happiness Hour, host Michelle Frechette interviews Zach Hendershot, creator of Miruni, a tool designed to streamline client feedback and project management for web developers, especially within the WordPress ecosystem. Zach explaining how Miruni automates mundane tasks, allowing developers to focus on strategic work. The episode highlights Miruni's features, such as capturing client requests and automating edits, and touches on future enhancements like automated SEO optimization and advanced client communication. The discussion underscores Miruni's potential to enhance efficiency and client satisfaction.Top Takeaways:Miruni is Built to Streamline Client Feedback for Agencies: Miruni enables clients to leave feedback directly on live websites by clicking and commenting, which then creates a structured request in the agency's dashboard. This direct, contextual input eliminates miscommunication, reduces friction, and speeds up the revision cycle.Transparency and Communication Are Core to Its Value Proposition: One of the standout benefits is accountability: Miruni provides a record of what clients requested. Agencies get a traceable history of requests, improving trust and transparency.The Platform Is Actively Evolving Based on Real-World Use and Community Feedback: Miruni is addressing practical challenges like mismatched image formats, file size optimization, and the need for better reporting. The team is responsive to feature requests—like client change logs and multi-user identification—and is working to enhance collaboration tools, user roles, and automation without sacrificing human oversight or quality.The Miruni Team Is Approachable and Focused on Helping Agencies Succeed: Zach emphasized their openness to demos, direct support, and ongoing learning from users. Their hands-on, collaborative approach makes them a valuable partner for agencies navigating complex client relationships and content workflows.Mentioned In The Show:MiruniElementorBreakdanceBricksDiviBeaver BuilderHubspot

In this episode, Megan Mendoza, Senior Manager of Community Relations for a Professional Sports League, discusses evangelism in the sports industry, humility and being free of selfish ambition, honoring your family, forsaking all to follow Jesus, and much more! Learn more about ⁠Uncommon Sports Group⁠ or ⁠connect with our community⁠.⁠Register⁠ for the third annual CWS Conference!⁠Watch⁠ this episode on our YouTube channel.

In this episode, we welcome Kate Mullen, Director of Development & Community Relations, and Risa Paskoff, Executive Director of Aaron's Acres. Since 1998, Aaron's Acres has been creating life-changing opportunities for individuals with disabilities by offering inclusive social and recreational programs that empower participants to learn, grow, and connect. Kate and Risa share the inspiring mission behind Aaron's Acres, how their programs foster vital socialization and communication skills, and the impact they've had on families throughout the community. We dive into the organization's journey, the challenges they've overcome, and the unwavering belief that everyone—regardless of ability—deserves the chance to thrive. Whether you're passionate about inclusion, community impact, or nonprofit leadership, this episode offers powerful insight into what it means to create possibility for all.

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

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 

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.

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.

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. 

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

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