Podcast
Agency Action
Hosted by WP Minute · EN
Hosted by Toby Cryns and Kurt von Ahnen, the Agency Action Podcast (Part of the WP Minute Podcast Network) dives into the real-world ups and downs of running a WordPress agency. Each week, Toby and Kurt share open, honest conversations about the challenges and victories that come with building client relationships, pricing projects, finding the right tools, and growing a sustainable business.
Whether you’re just launching your agency or refining your systems, you’ll get practical insights from two agency owners who live it every day—along with stories that remind you you’re not alone in this wild WordPress world of global teams, AI disruption, and constant change.
Follow the show and explore more at TheWPMinute.com/podcasts
17episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
Automate, Build, or Buy? The New Agency Playbook
4d ago00:50:28Tap to summarizeGet ready for a special edition of The WP Minute’s Agency Action podcast! Matt Medeiros (filling in for a vacationing Kurt and Toby) is joined by developer and WordPress core contributor Brendan O'Connell. Together, they explore the increasing role of AI in agency life. The discussion touches on the technology’s impact on automation, creativity, and web hosting.You’ll also find tips on using tools like N8N and Hermes to boost your workflow and advice for navigating the lightning-paced industry shifts. Where does AI fit into your agency? This episode will help you find the perfect balance.Takeaways:AI is transforming how agency owners operate and build tools.Understanding automation is still crucial despite the rise of AI.The rapid pace of AI’s evolution impacts our productivity and attention spans.Creative professionals are experiencing a surge in idea generation.Open-source solutions like Hermes are becoming more accessible.The balance between buying and building tools is shifting.AI tools can enhance workflows but may also lead to dependency.The economics of AI are changing as open-source models emerge.Agencies need to adapt to the evolving landscape to stay competitive.AI can help manage project context and prevent drift.AI should augment human roles, not replace them.Important Links:Connect with Brendan: LinkedIn | Twitter/X | WebsiteAgency Action Podcast: thewpminute.com/subscribe
Transcribe →AI Fatigue Is an Opportunity for Agencies
2w ago00:37:19Tap to summarizeThis episode of The WP Minute’s Agency Action podcast looks at the growing trend of AI fatigue. Kurt and Toby note that clients are finding that AI tools alone can’t solve their pain points. It presents a big opportunity for agencies and freelancers to save the day!You’ll find advice on the importance of selling solutions (rather than code), adopting agency subscription models, and effective time management strategies. The guys also examine the challenges of staying productive and diversifying client relationships to mitigate risk. It’s everything you need to turn your client’s AI problem into profit.Takeaways:Mid-sized clients prefer to work with experts rather than engage with AI tools themselves.There is a growing fatigue among clients regarding AI technologies.Selling is more profitable than merely building websites.Clients often underestimate the complexity of maintaining digital products.AI can add complexity to client relationships, especially regarding billing and access.Subscription models can provide steady revenue streams for agencies.Time blocking is essential for maintaining productivity and focus.Important Links:Kurt’s Agency: Mañana No Mas Toby’s Agency: The Mighty Mo! Follow Kurt & Toby:LinkedIn: Kurt | Toby Agency Action Podcast: thewpminute.com/subscribe
Transcribe →Are Your Projects Too Complicated?
3w ago00:30:10Tap to summarizeMaybe your client projects start with simple ideas. But client requests and scope creep can turn them into a tangled mess before you know it. Kurt and Toby have been there! This episode of The WP Minute’s Agency Action podcast is all about keeping your projects (and clients) on the right track.The guys discuss evolving client expectations, AI’s role in project management, and how experience can help you navigate the challenges. In the end, it’s all about clear communication, effective processes, and critical thinking.Takeaways:Complexity in projects is subjective and varies by individual.Technology has evolved, making certain requests easier to fulfill.AI is changing the landscape of project requests and expectations.Experience plays a crucial role in defining project complexity.Managing client expectations is key to successful project outcomes.Clear processes can mitigate potential complications.Clients often underestimate the complexity of their requests.Important Links:Kurt’s Agency: Mañana No MasToby’s Agency: The Mighty Mo!Follow Kurt & Toby:LinkedIn: Kurt | TobyAgency Action Podcast: thewpminute.com/subscribe
Transcribe →The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly of Self Promotion
4w ago00:30:43Tap to summarizeAre you tired of the endless self-promotion on social media? Not sure how to show off your skills without bothering others? This episode of The WP Minute’s Agency Action podcast is for you!Kurt and Toby examine the complexities of self-promotion on LinkedIn. The guys explore the ethical dilemmas of business practices and the transformative impact of AI on lead generation and workflows. They also discuss the fine line between effective marketing and distasteful self-promotion, the necessity of adapting to changing business landscapes, and the importance of having the right tools for success. You’ll also find reflections on the future of work and the role of innovation in professional growth.Takeaways:Self-promotion on LinkedIn can be off-putting but necessary.There's a fine line between sharing achievements and overdoing it.AI is changing how we generate leads and market ourselves.Desperation can shift moral judgments in business practices.Exploring new avenues can lead to unexpected opportunities.Integrating AI into workflows can enhance productivity.The cost of innovation can be a barrier for many businesses.Embracing change is essential in the digital landscape.There is great benefit in being part of a community that shares knowledge.Important Links:Kurt’s Agency: Mañana No MasToby’s Agency: The Mighty Mo!Follow Kurt & Toby:LinkedIn: Kurt | TobyAgency Action Podcast: thewpminute.com/subscribe
Transcribe →Your Client Just Hired Someone Else. Now What?
Jun 2300:35:59Tap to summarizeClient transitions are on Kurt and Toby’s minds in this episode of The WP Minute’s Agency Action podcast. The guys look at what happens when a client goes elsewhere, how it impacts your professional relationships, and why boundaries are important. They also examine the value of giving back through volunteering and mentorship. You’ll also find their takes on the skills gap in education and an agency’s role in closing it.Takeaways: Setting boundaries is crucial when clients leave.Flexibility can lead to complications in client relationships.Expertise is often undervalued in budget discussions.Communication is key when managing project expectations.Contributions to the community can enhance agency reputation and bring personal fulfillment.Professionalism and humility can coexist in client interactions.Teaching is a valuable way to give back to the community.Podcasting can be a fun way to share knowledge and connect with others.Community leadership comes with both rewards and challenges.It's important to consider the potential negative exposure when sharing publicly.Important Links:Kurt’s Agency: Mañana No MasToby’s Agency: The Mighty Mo!Follow Kurt & Toby:LinkedIn: Kurt | TobyAgency Action Podcast: thewpminute.com/subscribe
Transcribe →Do You Have an Agency or a Job?
Jun 1600:39:30Tap to summarizeThis episode of The WP Minute’s Agency Action podcast asks a simple question: Do you have agency or a job? Kurt and Toby discuss the nuances of building an agency and offer sustainability tips. The guys also discuss the importance of client relationships and the common pitfalls associated with growth. You’ll also find insights on apprenticeships and the mindset of a successful agency owner. It’s everything you wanted to know about growing your agency into a sellable asset!Takeaways:Unlike a job, an agency is a sustainable entity.Client relationships are crucial for agency growth.Effective project management can help with billing and scope creep.Growth does not always equate to increased profit or happiness.Training and mentoring the next generation is vital for agency success.Value-based pricing can lead to better agency sustainability.Effective communication within teams enhances client service.Building a community through local engagement can benefit your business.Simplicity in processes can lead to better outcomes.Agency growth often requires adding complexity.Margin is more important than revenue for agency sustainability.Important Links:Kurt’s Agency: Mañana No Mas Toby’s Agency: The Mighty Mo! Follow Kurt & Toby:LinkedIn: Kurt | Toby Agency Action Podcast: thewpminute.com/subscribe
Transcribe →Lessons From One Year of Agency Action
Jun 900:39:57Tap to summarizeJoin Toby and Kurt as they celebrate the first anniversary of The WP Minute’s Agency Action podcast! The guys look back at their past conversations and the importance of listener engagement. Turning their focus to the present, they look at the common struggles agencies face when redesigning their websites and branding, emphasizing the need for clear messaging. You’ll also find thoughts on trusting experts and learning from your experiences. It’s a jam-packed episode that includes plenty of actionable advice. Takeaways:Celebrating a year of podcasting brings reflection on growth.Networking often involves navigating unsolicited pitches.Agencies frequently struggle with internal branding efforts.Trusting experts can lead to better outcomes for businesses.Evaluating results is crucial for learning and growth.SEO and branding can sometimes conflict in strategy.Family time is an essential part of achieving balance.Life interruptions happen daily and require planning around them.Working from home offers flexibility but can lead to distractions.Investing in the right tools is crucial for efficiency.Procrastinating on equipment upgrades can lead to bigger problems.Being open to change can lead to unexpected opportunities.Important Links:Kurt’s Agency: Mañana No MasToby’s Agency: The Mighty Mo!Follow Kurt & Toby:LinkedIn: Kurt | TobyAgency Action Podcast: thewpminute.com/subscribe
Transcribe →Finding Purpose in Agency Work
Jun 200:29:43Tap to summarizeThis episode of The WP Minute’s Agency Action podcast is all about the emotional and professional challenges of agency work. Kurt and Toby explore the importance of team dynamics, project management, and effective communication with clients. The guys emphasize the need to establish processes while maintaining flexibility, and the value of professional partnerships in finding purpose and community engagement. The goal is to examine your strengths and weaknesses, then turn them into action! Takeaways:Agency work presents challenges that can be emotionally draining.Look closely at your situation. You may be doing better than you think.Agency owners have the freedom and flexibility to enact positive changes.Our emotions can cloud our judgment when it comes to success.Having the right perspective will help you make better decisions.A great project manager changes businesses.The goal of reflection is to improve your standing with clients.Important Links:Kurt’s Agency: Mañana No MasToby’s Agency: The Mighty Mo!Follow Kurt & Toby:LinkedIn: Kurt | TobyAgency Action Podcast: thewpminute.com/subscribe
Transcribe →How Phased Projects Can Grow Your Agency
May 2600:33:24Tap to summarizeThis episode of The WP Minute’s Agency Action podcast is all about agency growth through project management. Kurt and Toby focus on phased launch approaches, the importance of MVPs, and the iterative nature of project management. They also explore different pricing models, the significance of client relationships, and the challenges of defining maintenance services. You’ll also get useful tidbits on the value of experience in agency work and considerations for growth and investment. It’s everything you need to go bigger and better!Takeaways:Phased launches can help manage client expectations and project timelines.MVPs (Minimum Viable Products) are crucial for getting projects off the ground quickly.Iterative processes allow for continuous improvement and adaptation.Good, better, best pricing models can enhance client engagement.Building strong client relationships is essential for long-term success.Industry experience can lead to better decision-making and pricing strategies.Defining maintenance services can clarify expectations for clients.Value-based pricing is often more effective than hourly rates.Growth should align with personal and professional goals. Important Links:Kurt’s Agency: Mañana No MasToby’s Agency: The Mighty Mo!Follow Kurt & Toby:LinkedIn: Kurt | TobyAgency Action Podcast: thewpminute.com/subscribe
Transcribe →The WordPress Hosting Trap: What Agencies Get Wrong
May 1900:25:58Tap to summarizeOn this episode of The WP Minute’s Agency Action podcast, Kurt and Toby explore the complexities of WordPress hosting. They discuss the various factors that influence the choice of hosting providers, the importance of support, and the implications of DNS management. The guys also offer guidance on upselling hosting and maintenance services, the role of AI in support, and the financial aspects of hosting services. It’s real talk about the challenges agencies face!Want to learn more about choosing the right web host? Check out The WP Minute’s free Hosting Decoded course.Takeaways:Choosing a hosting provider involves evaluating performance, support, and cost.Support options vary widely among hosting companies and impact user experience.Upselling hosting and maintenance services can create recurring revenue for agencies.AI in hosting support is still developing and may not meet all needs.Cost analysis reveals that hosting maintenance can be more expensive than anticipated.Managing plugin weight is essential for website performance.DNS management can enhance website speed and reliability.Agencies should be proactive in discussing hosting options with clients.Important Links:Kurt’s Agency: Mañana No MasToby’s Agency: The Mighty Mo!Follow Kurt & Toby:LinkedIn: Kurt | TobyAgency Action Podcast: thewpminute.com/subscribe
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