Two Decades Running A WordPress Agency

On this episode of the WP Minute+ Podcast, Matt chats with Toby Cryns, founder of Minneapolis-based agency The Mighty Mo!, about what it’s like to run a WordPress agency for 20 years. From building sites in Flash before pivoting to WordPress after Steve Jobs’ infamous “Flash is dead” moment, Toby reflects on the evolution of the web industry, the rise of page builders, and the growing influence of AI on development and client expectations.

Toby shares his journey of overcoming fear around AI, his experiments with ChatGPT and Copilot, and how he’s using these tools to develop a WordPress-based project management app. He discusses how the small business and nonprofit web design market is shifting, the impact of DIY platforms like Wix and Squarespace, and the growing divide between clients who want $300 websites and those who need reliable long-term partners. Through honest anecdotes and hard-earned lessons, Toby explores pricing strategies, client relationships, project management, and the power of sticking with WordPress – even amid uncertainty in the ecosystem.

Key Takeaways

AI and WordPress Development:

• AI is useful as a junior-level coding assistant but still requires deep domain knowledge.
• Tools like ChatGPT and Copilot have saved Toby hundreds of hours on plugin development.
• AI won’t replace agencies but it will change workflows and create new opportunities.

Adapting to Market Shifts:

• The entry-level web market is increasingly lost to AI and DIY tools.
• High-end clients may be exploring prototyping internally before approaching agencies.
• Adaptation is key: agencies that don’t evolve risk becoming obsolete.

Running a Sustainable WordPress Agency:

• Project managers and account managers are game changers for scaling without burnout.
• WordPress plugins like Beaver Builder and services like ManageWP streamline delivery and maintenance.
• Raising prices (even a little) can be a healthy, overdue adjustment.

Community and the Future of WordPress:

• Despite recent governance controversies, Toby remains hopeful about the WordPress community.
• The community is WordPress’ greatest asset – leaders must help rebuild trust and direction.
• Gutenberg may yet become the publishing backbone of the modern web.

Important Links

• The WP Minute+ Podcast: thewpminute.com/subscribe
• Visit Toby’s Agency: https://themightymo.com/
• Connect with Toby on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tobycryns