Open Makers

Open Makers highlights the people behind the products, tools, and services shaping the open web. From developers and designers to entrepreneurs and community leaders, we dive into the real stories of what it takes to make and ship meaningful work. Guests share their insights on building with open source, navigating challenges, and finding opportunities in today’s digital landscape. Whether you’re crafting code, running a business, or exploring new ideas, Open Makers offers lessons and inspiration from those who’ve been there. Part of the Open Channels FM Network.

539 episodes

24d ago latest

weekly cadence

English language

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Episodes 300

How AI Tools Are Transforming Everyday Web Design Practices
1mo ago · 32:40
In this episode, Bob and Cami discuss how AI is reshaping web design, offering tips on using AI tools effectively, educating clients, and adapting workflows for better efficiency in the digital space.
Multi-Layered Security and the Future of Hosting in an AI World
1mo ago · 39:15
In this episode, Adam and Aaron discuss evolving web security in the AI era, emphasizing proactive strategies, layered defenses, and the vital role of hosts in protecting websites against modern threats. Secure your online presence!
Aligning WooCommerce Marketing Strategies for Community Success
2mo ago · 54:20
In this episode we’re chatting about a topic that matters to everyone in the WooCommerce world and beyond: how OSS communities can come together to market themselves more effectively.
AI Hype and Hope Navigating Optimism and Skepticism
2mo ago · 13:41
In this episode, hosts and guests share diverse perspectives on AI's rise, touching on its potential, challenges, and how it's reshaping industries and human interaction.
The Value of Small WordPress Events in a Changing Tech Landscape
3mo ago · 36:55
In this epiosde, Adam Weeks interviews Joe Simpson about reviving local WordCamps, emphasizing their unique value in fostering in-person connections, empowering new voices, and adapting to technological changes like AI in the WordPress community.
New Tools and Updates in WordPress 7.0 for Developers and Content Managers
3mo ago · 1:07:06
WordPress 7.0 "Armstrong" introduces significant updates including visual revisions, responsive block visibility, and enhanced workflow features, promoting collaboration among users and developers while emphasizing safe updating practices.
Elevate Your Brand With Authentic Case Studies That Resonate
3mo ago · 29:51
In this Open Makers episode, host Adam Weeks and guest Elena Yovcheva-Tileva discuss crafting impactful case studies. They emphasize storytelling, client involvement, and practical strategies for creating narratives that highlight successful outcomes, boosting trust and engagement.
Building Business Fortitude and Creativity in Digital Marketing
3mo ago · 29:12
This episode of Open Channels FM emphasizes fortitude in business, highlighting tenacity, creativity, and resilience as key to breaking through digital noise and getting noticed, with practical advice.
Rethinking Plugins With a Single License for an Expanding Library
4mo ago · 50:52
In this episode, hosts Bob Dunn and Cami McNamara discuss WellPlayedWP, a unique subscription service for WordPress plugins launched by Marcus Burnette. The service focuses on innovative, user-driven plugin development, addressing gaps in existing solutions.
The Power of Smaller Open Source Ecommerce Events
4mo ago · 1:01:12
In today’s e-commerce landscape, small conferences are becoming powerful spaces for genuine conversations, meaningful networking, and practical takeaways
Boosting Store Productivity with AI-Driven Automations and Workflow Integrations
4mo ago · 48:03
In this episode, co-hosts discuss WooCommerce automation with expert James Collins, emphasizing how tools like Zapier streamline tasks, reduce errors, and enhance efficiency through practical automation examples and AI advancements.
How Hosting Companies Empower Agencies Through Effective Partnerships
4mo ago · 18:37
In this episode, Adam Weeks and Carrie Smaha discuss agency partner programs, emphasizing ongoing commissions, risk management, and building trust.
Professionalizing Pricing Models for Open Source CMS Businesses
4mo ago · 28:05
In this episode, Anne Bovelett chats with Dr. Christian Kurze discuss strategies for startups in open source CMS, emphasizing structured sales and sustainable monetization.
Self-hosted WordPress Optimized Runtime on Docker (SWORD)
4mo ago · 6:52
In the CloudFest Hackathon, Jan Willem shared his team's project, SWORD, a self-hosted control panel for WordPress, highlighting collaboration, technical challenges, and team spirit.
WEB Responsibility Scanner
4mo ago · 4:56
Ekaterina Streltsova introduced the BEP Responsibility Scanner at CloudFest Hackathon, addressing web sustainability, accessibility issues, and legal compliance, emphasizing the need for open-source solutions.
Enhancing Plugin Discovery and Validation with AI Tools for WordPress
4mo ago · 7:49
Javier Casares and Mark Heijnen discuss WP Plugin Insight, a project enhancing WordPress plugin discovery through AI-driven analysis of compatibility, security, and translations.
Latest Jetpack Social Updates and the Return of X Integration
5mo ago · 33:02
In this episode, Derek Hanson chats with Devin Walker about Jetpack Social updates, including interface redesign, Twitter integration, AI features, and upcoming WordPress 7.0 enhancements for WordPress users.
How Hackathons Are Shaping the Future of Accessibility in Tech
5mo ago · 10:16
The Hackathon team discusses their AI tool, TestAlly, focusing on improving accessibility for developers while enhancing collaboration and business benefits.
How AI and Cloud Tools Are Transforming WooCommerce Development and Testing
5mo ago · 42:16
In this episode, Derek talks with WooCommerce's Brian Coords about how AI is reshaping e-commerce, from automating tasks to enhancing flexibility for developers and merchants. Brian shares insights on using AI for better workflows and community engagement.
Building Trust at Scale and Navigating Agency Challenges in the Age of AI
5mo ago · 33:35
In this episode, Adam and Marc discuss agency challenges in digital marketing, focusing on AI's impact, client expectations, and the importance of communication and efficiency in managing multiple websites.
An Inside Look at Building Consistent Brand Experience in the Digital Ecosystem
6mo ago · 34:52
In this episode, Adam Weeks interviews Jessica Malamud, who discusses Elementor's significant rebranding efforts to better reflect its innovation and community engagement, focusing on elements like design, storytelling, and brand consistency.
Building Better Habits for Freelancers and Creators
6mo ago · 21:07
Bob and Cami discuss balancing good and bad habits, focusing on productivity strategies, managing distractions like social media, and fostering community, while preparing for future podcast topics.
Navigating Tech Shifts, Expanding Your Developer Toolkit
6mo ago · 50:25
Zach Stepek and Carl Alexander discuss winter challenges, work-life balance, and AI’s impact on coding. They emphasize the importance of diversifying skills and adapting to tech changes for career longevity.
From Open Source Debates to Hosted Solutions and UI Challenges with WooCommerce Evolutions
7mo ago · 1:02:52
In this episode guest Beau Lebens and hosts James and Katie chat about key WooCommerce topics, including community concerns, competitive advantages, AI developments, and the future of the WooCommerce ecosystem.
WordPress 6.9: From Streamlined Content Creation to Powerful Developer Tools
8mo ago · 59:27
In this episode, contributors Akshaya Rane, Birgit Pauli-Haack, and Krupa Nanda discuss the collaborative process behind WordPress 6.9, highlighting features, performance upgrades, and emphasizing community involvement and testing.