Streamlined Solopreneur: Helping Solopreneurs Take Time Off Worry-Free

Jeff Matson is a WordPress man about town, making contributions to several big plugins and projects, and even WordPress itself. In this episode, we talk all about development, knowing when to cut your losses, developer tools, and much more. It was great having Jeff on the show! Main Project: Heartbeat Control Heartbeat Control is a free WordPress plugin that allows you to easily manage the frequency of the WordPress heartbeat API with just a few dropdowns. Show NotesJeff MatsonHeartbeat ControlGravity FormsVisual Studio CodeTom McFarlinLocal by FlywheelVue.jsWordPress HeartbeatCode CompleteCheck out our PatreonSponsored by: Liquid Web | Hover.com Simplify your tech stack at https://streamlined.fm/tools ★ Support this podcast ★

Stephanie Wells is a nurse turned coder who launched her own WordPress-based online business. Starting off in client work, she quickly moved into the product space, where she makes Formidable Forms. I was stoked to have Stephanie on the show and we talk about all sorts of great topics from scratching your own itch to family and more. Show NotesFormidable FormsBlair WilliamsPressNomicsCaboPressGirl Develop ItOperation SmileSpoiler Alert! I reference a show that hasn't been released yet :-) Check out our new Patreon – be one of the first 20 to pledge $10 and get a free t-shirt!Sponsored by: CodePen Projects | Liquid Web Simplify your tech stack at https://streamlined.fm/tools ★ Support this podcast ★

Or: "How I Met Your Mummers"In this first episode of Season 3, Tracy and I talk about doing client work vs. product work, owning an agency in Philly, and moving from the free to freemium pricing model. We also talk all sorts of non-computer stuff like raising children (being parents and business owners), Philly lingo, and How I Met Your Mother.Show NotesTracy LevesqueTracy on TwitterYIKES, IncEasy Forms for MailChimpJason ColemanChris LemaCaboPress (yay I'm also going!)GithubGruntWordPress Development with Git/GitHub - Jeremy PryTortiseSVNGitboxPHPUnitCheck out our new Patreon - be one of the first 20 to pledge $10 and get a free t-shirt!Sponsored by: BoldGrid | Liquid Web Simplify your tech stack at https://streamlined.fm/tools ★ Support this podcast ★

We close out Season 2 talking to Michael Sacca of Crew and Unsplash. Crew has since been acquired by Dribbble, but the story of how they got to where they are is great! We discuss startups, finding the right balance, and how a simple side project can be the thing that changes your main business. It's a great way to end Season 2, so have a listen! Show NotesCrewUnsplashMichael SaccaRocketship.fmSponsored by: Level Eleven Art Department | BoldGrid Simplify your tech stack at https://streamlined.fm/tools ★ Support this podcast ★

David Bisset is a WordPress developer who also happens to plan one of the biggest WordCamps in the United States. Their 9th one happened recently so I sat down and talked to David about what goes into planning a WordCamp, especially one this big! Show NotesDavid BissetDavid on TwitterMake WordPressWordCamp.orgBuddyPressEpisode 21: Liam Dempsey and WordPress MeetupsCaring Enough to Give Back to Your CommunityOrganizer HandbookWPCampusWPTavernWordCamp & BuddyCamp Miami 2017: My Thoughts and PlansResults of my Live "Rate my Talk with Emoji" from WPCampusSponsored by: BoldGrid | Hover.com Simplify your tech stack at https://streamlined.fm/tools ★ Support this podcast ★

Diane Kinney is a WordPress Developer, Designer, and Marketer. And soon, she'll be adding author to that biographical line. She and Carrie Dils are working on a book called Real World Freelancing that talks all about what it really takes to be a freelancer. In this episode, she and I talk all about the writing process, decisions for self-publishing, and more. Show NotesDiane KinneyDiane on TwitterReal World FreelancingCarrie Dils on How I Built ItSponsored by: BoldGrid | Hover.com Simplify your tech stack at https://streamlined.fm/tools ★ Support this podcast ★

Shawn Hesketh is a good friend of the show and an excellent educator and mentor. His widely popular site, WP101, teached thousands of folks how to use WordPress. In this episode, we get pretty deep into the woods on how he built WP101, and in typical Shawn fashion, he imparts some great advice all along the way. This one is a little longer that usual, but it's packed full of fantastic content, including his recording setup. Show NotesShawn HeskethShawn's TwitterWP101Bill EricksonBlue Snowball / YetiShure SM7BDuet by ApogeePreamp: Grace Design M101Limiter PluginCanvas by WooThemesChris LemaLifterLMSJetpack CourseZac GordonWooCommerceYoast SEO Sponsored by: ProsPress | BoldGrid Simplify your tech stack at https://streamlined.fm/tools ★ Support this podcast ★

Erin Flynn is a freelancer and educator based on Colorado. In this episode we talk about how she found her way into the product space, all the twists and turns of freelancing, and how she creates courses and keeps her sales funnel on point. Show NotesErin FlynnRethink.fm: Tips for Mastering Client CommunicationsStreak for GMailTeachableRain MakerUnstoppable CoursesConvertKitSponsored by: BoldGrid | Formidable Forms Simplify your tech stack at https://streamlined.fm/tools ★ Support this podcast ★

Tom is a man of many hats! He's a WordPress user, avid blogger, developer, editor for Envato, and much more. He also takes the approach that he'll scratch his own itch if he needs to. In this episode, we talk about how he tackles problems, why and how he built the plugin Page Template Dashboard, and his development tools. Show NotesTom McFarlinTom on TwitterPage Template DashboardAdopt a PluginWordPress Coding StandardsSVNVisual Studio CodeGit GUI: TowerSNV GUI: TortoiseSVN, VersionsWordpress Stack ExchangeCheck out my new WordPress Theme Development course & get 20% : How to Build WordPress ThemesSponsored by: ProsPress | BoldGrid Simplify your tech stack at https://streamlined.fm/tools ★ Support this podcast ★

In this episode, Ty and I discuss a few great topics! His company, Cantilever, focuses on strong client relationships that elicit enough trust to try cool, experimental projects, like what they did with Rustic Pathways. We talk about integrating the REST API in an interesting way, the importance of communicating with clients, and why trying a project as "just a project" might not be the best way to grow your business. Show NotesTy FujimuraCantileverRustic PathwaysWordPress REST APISponsored by: BoldGrid | Hover.com Simplify your tech stack at https://streamlined.fm/tools ★ Support this podcast ★

In this episode, Andy and I discuss some of the specific challenges and rewards of developing WordPress sites for non-profits, why empathy is so important, and why you should never say never when choosing the right tool for the job. Show NotesAndy StittWP for Non-ProfitsHow to Use WordPress to Build Your Non-Profit Site - WordCamp BaltimoreThe Neuroblastoma Children's Cancer SocietyHave Empathy While Teaching - Joe Casabona - WordCamp LancasterGenesis FrameworkDiviSponsored by: ProsPress | Formidable Forms Simplify your tech stack at https://streamlined.fm/tools ★ Support this podcast ★

In this episode, we get pretty heavy into servers and server setup! Jonathan talks about how he got the idea for WP Stagecoach. We also discuss some of the difficulties with spinning up and simulating multiple server setups, how good coding can go a long way, and much much more. Show NotesWP StagecoachWhat is a Staging Server?What is a Script Kiddie?Apache IIISponsored by: BoldGrid | Pantheon Simplify your tech stack at https://streamlined.fm/tools ★ Support this podcast ★

In this episode, Daniel and I get pretty heavy into development tools and using WP CLI, automated testing, and the future of WP-CLI and Open Source. We go a little long, but it's a great conversation no matter what your background is. Show NotesDaniel BachhuberWP-CLIHand BuiltWP-CLI on make.wordpressBehat Automated TestingUnit TestingLaravel ValetHarvestSponsored by: BoldGrid | Formidable Forms Simplify your tech stack at https://streamlined.fm/tools ★ Support this podcast ★

In this episode, Troy and I have a great conversation about developing online courses, creating scarcity, and keeping students engaged. If you've been looking to start an online course or develop a great online community, this episode should not be missed! Show NotesTroy DeanWP ElevationRockStar EmpiresRunning LeanSocial LearnerLearn DashEpisode 9 with Zac GordonTeachableHeadspace AppSponsored by: Formidable Forms | Hover.com Simplify your tech stack at https://streamlined.fm/tools ★ Support this podcast ★

It's Episode 26, and JJJ and I talk all about getting an idea and running with it. His plugin Publishiza has a funny origin story that decided to develop. We also talk about publishing where you're comfortable, seeing your work get used by actual people, and of-course, deep bar thoughts. ?⛈️ Show NotesJJJ | JJJ on TwitterPublishizaWordCamp USBuddyPressBBPressWhat is a Tweetstorm?JetpackKeyringPHP wordwrap100 ∞Sponsored by: Pantheon | Hired.com Simplify your tech stack at https://streamlined.fm/tools ★ Support this podcast ★

In this episode, Bob and I get back to WordPress basics and talk all about blogging! Bob talks about how he built his blog, using plugins (60+!), coming up with good content, and a lot more. This is an excellent episode for anyone who uses WordPress or wants to start a blog. Show NotesBob DunnWP Ecommerce ShowEpisode 12 with Chris LemaCreate a Custom Blog with WordPress courseYoast SEO | Episode 8 with Joost De ValkGenesisCoSchedule | Episode 20 with Nathan ElleringCigars Section of Casabona.orgSponsored by: Pantheon | Hired.com Simplify your tech stack at https://streamlined.fm/tools ★ Support this podcast ★

Logan and I talk about what it's like to sell royalty free music with Easy Digital Downloads, as well as the music-writing process, good sound editing, and tips for recording. This is a great episode because Logan is not necessarily in the WordPress space, but he is using WordPress to sell his music. Show NotesMusic for Makers | PricingLogan on The Matt ReportUnsplashEasy Digital DownloadsDIY Acoustic FoamSponsored by: Liquid Web | Social Web Suite Simplify your tech stack at https://streamlined.fm/tools ★ Support this podcast ★

In this episode, Scott and I talk all about extending WordPress beyond the web, Javascript frameworks, the REST API, and a lot more! It was great to hear about AppPresser's transformation and where it's heading! Show NotesScott BolingerAppPresserState of the Word 2012IonicAngular 2ReactWordPress REST APISponsored by: Pantheon | Hired.com Simplify your tech stack at https://streamlined.fm/tools ★ Support this podcast ★

In Episode 22, Topher and I discuss building HeroPress, sticking with a project when it's important enough, and giving a voice to people in the community who don't always feel like they have one. Show NotesTopher DeRosiaHeroPressKickstarterGoFundMeWordCamp LondonSponsored by: Social Web Suite | Hover.com Simplify your tech stack at https://streamlined.fm/tools ★ Support this podcast ★

In this episode, Liam and I discuss what goes into making a good meetup. As the organizer of one of the most popular (and active) WordPress meetups in the Northeast, and a 2 time WordCamp US organizer, he shares lots of wisdom about what works, what doesn't work, and ultimately that secret sauce for a successful meetup. Show NotesLiam DempseyLBDesignPhilly 'Burbs MeetupWordCamp USSponsored by: Hired.com | Project Panorama Simplify your tech stack at https://streamlined.fm/tools ★ Support this podcast ★

It's episode 20! Woo! This season has been pretty developer heavy so far, but my chat with Nathan is anything but, and there's a ton of great stuff I learned. We talk about CoSchedule, coming up with content, and all about marketing. It's definitely something I could use some great advice on, and you'll find it in this episode. Show NotesNathan ElleringCoScheduleCoSchedule BlogCoSchedule PodcastReQueueHow to Engage Social Media like a Team of 30Headline AnalyzerClick to Tweet PluginSponsored by: Social Web Suite | Project Panorama Simplify your tech stack at https://streamlined.fm/tools ★ Support this podcast ★

It's early in the year and something to think about is security! Dre Armeda is here to tell us all about that - the full history of his company, Sucuri, where they've been and why they are kicking it up a notch. Super informative and important to anyone doing business on the web! Show NotesDre ArmedaSucuriSucuri BlogWhat does Zero Day mean?Massive Internet of Things HackSponsored by: Project Panorama | Hover.com Simplify your tech stack at https://streamlined.fm/tools ★ Support this podcast ★

It's the first episode of Season 2 and I'm glad to be back! Leading off, I got to talk to Pippin Williamson about resurrecting Restrict Content Pro, what it's like being in the WordPress product space, pricing, developing, finding balance, and lots more in this jam-packed half hour. Show NotesPippin's PluginsRestrict Content ProEasy Digital DownloadsPayPal DocumentationStripe DocumentationSublime TextSandhills BrewingPippin's WCUS TalkSponsored by: Social Web Suite | Project Panorama Simplify your tech stack at https://streamlined.fm/tools ★ Support this podcast ★

It's the end of Season 1! In this 2-part episode, Jackie and I cover everything we've learned while starting a new podcast. In this part (part 2), we go over finding guests and sponsors, choosing the right tools, using iTunes, and more. Show NotesPart 1Jackie D'EliaRethink.fmClapper BoardRethink.fm with Diane KinneyJames Laws & Ninja FormsBluberry Podcast PluginSeriously Simple PodcastingPodcasts Connect for iTunesRev.comLet's EncryptSponsored by: Anchor Host | Creator Crew Simplify your tech stack at https://streamlined.fm/tools ★ Support this podcast ★

It's the end of Season 1! In this 2-part episode, Jackie and I cover everything we've learned while starting a new podcast. In this part (part 1), we go over the ideas for each podcast, some early trial and error, pre- and post-production, tricks of the trade, and more. Show NotesJackie D'EliaRethink.fmAudacityFiverrMy Podcast GearRode Podcaster Mic | BundleeCamLibsynCamtasiaScreenflowSponsored by: Anchor Host | Hover.com Simplify your tech stack at https://streamlined.fm/tools ★ Support this podcast ★

In this episode, James and I talk about breaking into the WordPress forms space, early decisions and pivoting, and building 3.0 from the ground up. Learn about how they built a following, evolved the product, and how they tested and migrated their customers to a brand new, fantastic build of the plugin, and what it could mean for the future. Show NotesJames LawsNinja FormsMastermind.fmUser submitted posts using Ninja Forms | Chris LemaZapierSponsored by: Project Panorama | Hover.com Simplify your tech stack at https://streamlined.fm/tools ★ Support this podcast ★

I get to talk to Corey Maass, a WordPress develop who's delved into several different products. His most popular plugin, Kanban for WordPress, turns WordPress into a project management system based on the popular Japanese method of displaying cards and showcasing progress. We discuss the challenges of pricing, updates, and staying focused. Show NotesCorey MaassKanban for WordPressWhat is Kanban?Agile ManifestoSponsored by: Sucuri | WP Stagecoach Simplify your tech stack at https://streamlined.fm/tools ★ Support this podcast ★

Jeff and I talk about picking names, following your passion, and his great attention to detail in this episode of How I Built It. In a usually saturated market, Jeff has build a great business on t-shirts and other clothing. His insight is fantastic! Show NotesUgmonkUgmonk JournalSquare One Coffee (sold out)Chemex Collar Sponsored by: Sucuri | SiteGround Simplify your tech stack at https://streamlined.fm/tools ★ Support this podcast ★

Chris and I talk about all sorts of stuff in this episode, all surrounding his site Beyond Good. We talk about tools, automation, and being a one-man show doing the work of a small company. Chris also shares some exclusive advice on creating content. Make sure to listen until the end!Show NotesBeyond GoodHosting with WPEngineGenesisBeaver BuilderWooCommerceProsPress SubscriptionsSkyverge MembershipsMemberPressZapierLobStartup ThreadsAgile CRMChris Lema [dot com]Sponsored by: WP Stagecoach | Hover.com Simplify your tech stack at https://streamlined.fm/tools ★ Support this podcast ★

This episode goes a little longer than normal, but it's chocked with some great information! We discuss hacking systems (but not in the way you'd expect), how he created WPSessions by basically asking, and why he wanted to bring the WordCamp feel to the online community. We also discussed the need to constantly evaluate if something is working and pivot where necessary. Show NotesWPSessionsMySQL Chapter 12: Data TypesSetting Up YouTube LiveSponsored by: Sucuri | Brandbucket Simplify your tech stack at https://streamlined.fm/tools ★ Support this podcast ★

In this episode, Robby and Justin from Beaver Builder discuss creating a great product, the importance of feedback from your users and the community, and where they see page builders going. Show NotesBeaver BuilderPippin's Page Builder ReviewGulp JSJoomla!React JSGoDaddy Now Includes Beaver Builder LiteHow I Built It Patreon Sponsored by: WP Stagecoach | Hover.com Simplify your tech stack at https://streamlined.fm/tools ★ Support this podcast ★

In this episode, Zac and I get deep about how he built his online learning course, Javascript for WordPress! We discuss the tools he used, coming up with content, and how often the best course of action is to pay the pros to get the high quality work. It's a great episode, with lots of show notes. Show NotesZac GordonJavascript for WordPressLearnDashWistiaScreenflowBadgeOSBuddyBossCourse Access ManagerHow I Built It PatreonSponsored by: Sucuri | Brandbucket Simplify your tech stack at https://streamlined.fm/tools ★ Support this podcast ★

In this episode, Joost and I talk all about his incredibly popular Yoast SEO plugin. Running one of the most popular plugins globally is hard work and it shows in the Yoast SEO team's development process. We talk about everything from good readability and supporting multiple languages to the rigid development and testing processes. We also wax poetic on the evolution of the development and how it is affecting the WordPress community. Show NotesYoast SEOYoast SEO PluginSponsored by: WP Stagecoach | Hover.com Simplify your tech stack at https://streamlined.fm/tools ★ Support this podcast ★

In this episode, Matt and I discuss how he built PluginTut, coming up with content, choosing the right tools for the job, and more! Show NotesPluginTutPluggedIn RadioMatt Report: Nathan BarryMatt Report: Rob WallingCanvaMy Business Card by Hoban CardsSponsored by: Hoban Cards | Brandbucket Simplify your tech stack at https://streamlined.fm/tools ★ Support this podcast ★

In this episode, I get to talk to Chris Coyier, we talk all about CodePen: the idea and execution, the interest tech stack and how it was coded, the challenges of certain features, and even a bit on taking VC funding. Definitely a great one to listen to! Show NotesCodePenCodePen RadioChris' book: Practical SVGSponsored by: Creator Crew | Hover.com Simplify your tech stack at https://streamlined.fm/tools ★ Support this podcast ★

In this episode, Carrie and I talk about the evolution of her podcast, the Office Hours Community, and the value of just trying stuff and see what works! Take a listen. Show NotesCarrie DilsOffice Hours FMThe Office Hours CommunityReal World Freelancing - the new book Carrie hinted at on the show!Sponsored by: Brandbucket | Creator Crew Simplify your tech stack at https://streamlined.fm/tools ★ Support this podcast ★

In this episode, Cory and I have a great conversation about all of the things iThemes does, how they got there, why they do things, and the most important aspect of any business. Show Notes:iThemesBackupBuddyiThemes SecurityiThemes SyncSponsored by: Themetry | Hover.com Simplify your tech stack at https://streamlined.fm/tools ★ Support this podcast ★

In this episode, I talk with Brian Krogsgard about how he started Post Status, deciding to take full time, getting members, making decisions, and of-course, the tools he used to built out the website! One of my favorite parts of the interview is around 7:20, where Brian talks about his method for researching his stories. Show Notes: Post StatusThesis, Automattic, and WordPress (on copyright)WooCommerceMailChimpSlackWP Career StarterSponsored by: Creator Crew | SiteGround Simplify your tech stack at https://streamlined.fm/tools ★ Support this podcast ★

Rebecca and I talk about building an online course, the necessary dedication you need to be able to teach, and some great tools for setting up your own online course! Links from the show: DIY SEO CoursesSEO BootcampLearnDashFollow Up Emails for WooCommerceSponsored by: LearnDash | Creator Crew Simplify your tech stack at https://streamlined.fm/tools ★ Support this podcast ★

Jason Coleman, CEO and Developer of Paid Memberships Pro talks about what he did to get started, some of the challenges of breaking into the WordPress plugin scene, how talking to others helped him set revenue expectations, and offers great advice on how to handle the inevitable negative feedback that comes with supporting 50,000 users. Check out his excellent plugin, Paid Memberships Pro and use the discount WP1Mo to get 25% off. SponsorsWebsiteSetup.org: A site for freelance writers, small-businesses, new bloggers and creative people who want to expand their online presence, WebsiteSetup.org offers great tutorials on getting your site up and running. Check out their latest free guide on how to create your own blog at http://websitesetup.org/create-blog/ Sponsored by: Creator Courses | SiteGround Simplify your tech stack at https://streamlined.fm/tools ★ Support this podcast ★

Welcome to Episode 0 of How I Built It! In these few minutes I introduce the show, what my goals are, and what to expect. There's a wealth of knowledge out there from people who went through what you are going through. You just need to learn to ask the right folks! Most people are willing to share their experiences, as you will see in Season 1. Sponsored by Simplify your tech stack at https://streamlined.fm/tools ★ Support this podcast ★