464 – Why Brian Gardner is betting big on Block Themes

In this episode, Nathan interviews Brian Gardner about his pioneering work in WordPress theming, the rise and impact of the Genesis Framework, and the shift toward block-based themes. They discuss the promise, challenges, and slower-than-hoped adoption of block editing, as well as its design flexibility through patterns. The conversation also explores the influence of AI tools like Miles on WordPress design, the ev
https://wpbuilds.com/2026/04/16/464-why-brian-gardner-is-betting-big-on-block-themes/

463 – Understanding how Cloudflare boosts WordPress security and performance with Jonathan Jernigan

In this episode, Nathan chats with WordPress educator Jonathan Jernigan about Cloudflare, what it is, how it works, and why it's valuable for website owners. Jonathan explains Cloudflare’s role as both a firewall and content delivery network, enhancing security and performance by blocking threats and replicating sites globally. They discuss practical use cases like reduc
https://wpbuilds.com/2026/04/09/463-understanding-how-cloudflare-boosts-wordpress-security-and-performance-with-jonathan-jernigan/

This Week in WordPress #370

Check out the WordPress news from the past 7 days. No live show this week.
https://wpbuilds.com/2026/03/31/this-week-in-wordpress-370/
https://wpbuilds.com/2026/03/31/this-week-in-wordpress-370/

462 – Debating AI’s impact with Jamie Marsland: content, creativity, slop and the future of WordPress

In this episode, Nathan Wrigley and Jamie Marsland debate the impacts of AI on WordPress and broader society - spoiler alert: Nathan wins!! ;-). Jamie shares insights on the new Claude WordPress.com integration, highlighting AI’s growing contextual awareness and its effect on website creation, content, and business strategy. Nathan challenges with concerns about conten
https://wpbuilds.com/2026/03/26/462-debating-ais-impact-with-jamie-marsland-content-creativity-slop-and-the-future-of-wordpress/

461 – From support to CEO: Jon Penland’s journey at Kinsta

In this episode, Nathan Wrigley talks with Jon Penland, CEO of Kinsta, about his career journey from self-education in tech to leading a rapidly growing company. Jon shares insights on the importance of curiosity, hard work, and adaptability in career growth. They discuss Kinsta’s involvement in the WordPress community, their approach to AI and hosting advancements, and the vital role of collaboration and human
https://wpbuilds.com/2026/03/19/461-from-support-to-ceo-jon-penlands-journey-at-kinsta/

This Week in WordPress #369

In this episode of TWiW, the panel discusses WP Engine’s acquisition of WPackagist, recent rapid-fire WordPress security updates, and highlights educational initiatives within the WordPress community. They also explore an agency’s strategic use of AI, preview upcoming features in WordPress 7, and cover the expanded functionality of the Ollie theme for WooCommerce. Additional topics include the release of a per-page theme switcher plugin, Wor
https://wpbuilds.com/2026/03/17/this-week-in-wordpress-369/