Shows
Trailblazer FM: WordPress without the drama396 - Does AI help or hinder - Lee Matthew JacksonAI streamlines your processes and makes you more productive right? I learned the hard way that it can seriously affect the quality of my output, my happiness and my reach! In this episode I share how AI nearly led to me completely shutting this podcast down, and how my relationship with AI is evolving and changing for the better.
No hate toward it (AI), but this is a warning to myself and others not to over rely on automation and lose what makes you special!
Full show notes: https://trailblazer.fm/does-ai-help-or-hinder/
2025-11-2619 minTrailblazer FM: WordPress without the drama395 - When your hobby becomes your job - Lee Matthew JacksonYou know that thing you love doing that lights you up? What happens when it becomes your job and you feel completely overwhelmed by it? In this episode I share how Trailblazer FM once fulfilled me, then became a burden. How trying to monetise a hobby robbed me of the joy of creation, and led me to burnout, to the extent I felt I had no choice but to stop podcasting.
Thankfully the story doesn't end there! I am back, and in this episode I share what's changed, why I am back and how I intend to...
2025-11-2623 minTrailblazer FM: WordPress without the drama48:8 - How we use ChatGPT in our web agency - Lee Matthew JacksonIntroducing ChatGPT to our entire team has been a game-changer! While some folks worry AI will take their jobs, our team is thriving with enhanced productivity and an improved work-life balance. Discover how we're leveraging AI to supercharge our efficiency in coding, content creation, email management, translations, and beyond!
Full show notes: https://trailblazer.fm/chatgpt-in-a-web-agency
2023-05-0214 minTrailblazer FM: WordPress without the drama48:7 - Fit with small, steady steps - Lee Matthew JacksonAs an agency owner, it's easy to get caught up in the day-to-day demands of running your business. But what happens when your work starts to take a toll on your health and happiness? For many agency owners, the answer is a frustrating cycle of too much work and not enough time for self-care. But it doesn't have to be this way.
Full show notes: https://trailblazer.fm/fit-with-small-steady-steps/
2023-04-2516 minTrailblazer FM: WordPress without the drama48:6 - How to implement regular stand-up meetings - Lee Matthew JacksonFeel like the internal communication at your agency is a little bit of a mess? Perhaps you're missing deadlines, upsetting clients, or duplicating your efforts internally. In this episode, Lee shares how stand-up meetings in his agency help solve these problems.
Full show notes: https://trailblazer.fm/implement-stand-up-meetings
2023-04-1913 minTrailblazer FM: WordPress without the drama48:5 - The Mastermind Effect: Agency Transformation - Lee Matthew JacksonImagine a mastermind group that catapults your business to new heights, helps you make bold moves, and pushes you to reach your full potential. Lee shares his own incredible journey of growth and transformation, thanks to the power of these game-changing meetups.
Full show notes: https://trailblazer.fm/mastermind-effect-agency-transformation
2023-04-1109 minTrailblazer FM: WordPress without the dramaS48E4 - Toxic clients & mental health - Lee Matthew JacksonEver felt swamped, stressed, or on edge due to tough clients? In this honest and unplanned episode, our host Lee gets real about how his mental health has been impacted by tricky client relationships. Tune in to hear his personal story, insights, and advice on dealing with toxic clients and safeguarding your well-being in the digital world.
Full show notes: https://trailblazer.fm/toxic-clients-mental-health
2023-04-0413 minTrailblazer FM: WordPress without the dramaS48E3 - Optimise support, win client's hearts - Lee Matthew JacksonAre you having a tough time providing top-notch support to your clients? In this episode, Lee spills the beans on how his agency, Event Engine, turned their messy support system into one with a perfect 100% client happiness rating.
Discover the super simple process they put in place to bring order to their support system, improve communication, and take a more proactive approach to helping their clients.
Full show notes: https://trailblazer.fm/optimise-support-win-clients-hearts/
2023-03-2810 minTrailblazer FM: WordPress without the dramaS48E2 - Track communication, convert more leads - Lee Matthew JacksonHave you ever been excited to receive a new lead in your inbox, only for the communication to fizzle out over time? As a web agency owner, this can be a frustrating experience. In this episode, Lee shares his agency's solution to this problem. By implementing a simple process using a CRM, they were able to track their communications and convert more leads.
Full show notes: https://trailblazer.fm/track-and-convert-leads/
2023-03-2111 minTrailblazer FM: WordPress without the dramaS48E1 - Selling value, not just websites - Lee Matthew JacksonAre you tired of trying to sell your web design services to potential clients, only to be met with hesitation and skepticism? It can be difficult to convince someone to invest a large sum of money in your services when they don't really know you yet. But what if there was a better way?
Full show notes: https://trailblazer.fm/selling-value-not-just-websites/
2023-03-1410 minTrailblazer FM: WordPress without the dramaS46E13 - An otherworldly site builder - Lee Matthew Jackson🎃 A visual builder that produces fast-loading WordPress websites.
In this series, Lee looks at a range of WordPress tools that can add value to both the development process and client interactions. For each episode, Lee will define a problem, discuss his agency's solution, and share a use case.
Full show notes: https://trailblazer.fm/an-otherworldly-site-builder
Join the conversation: https://trailblazer.fm/an-otherworldly-site-builder/#respond
All WordPress tools to try before you die: https://trailblazer.fm/category/halloween-2022/wordpress-tools/
2022-10-3108 minTrailblazer FM: WordPress without the dramaS46E12 - Conjuring membership magic - Lee Matthew Jackson🎃 Protecting content within WordPress for members only.
In this series, Lee looks at a range of WordPress tools that can add value to both the development process and client interactions. For each episode, Lee will define a problem, discuss his agency's solution, and share a use case.
Full show notes: https://trailblazer.fm/conjuring-membership-magic
Join the conversation: https://trailblazer.fm/conjuring-membership-magic/#respond
All WordPress tools to try before you die: https://trailblazer.fm/category/halloween-2022/wordpress-tools/
2022-10-3007 minTrailblazer FM: WordPress without the dramaS46E11 - Adding hocus pocus to a website - Lee Matthew Jackson🎃 No-code animations and effects in WordPress.
In this series, Lee looks at a range of WordPress tools that can add value to both the development process and client interactions. For each episode, Lee will define a problem, discuss his agency's solution, and share a use case.
Full show notes: https://trailblazer.fm/adding-hocus-pocus-to-a-website
Join the conversation: https://trailblazer.fm/adding-hocus-pocus-to-a-website/#respond
All WordPress tools to try before you die: https://trailblazer.fm/category/halloween-2022/wordpress-tools/
2022-10-2906 minTrailblazer FM: WordPress without the dramaS46E10 - Attack of the clones - Lee Matthew Jackson🎃 Moving a large WordPress website from one host to another.
In this series, Lee looks at a range of WordPress tools that can add value to both the development process and client interactions. For each episode, Lee will define a problem, discuss his agency's solution, and share a use case.
Full show notes: https://trailblazer.fm/attack-of-the-clones/
Join the conversation: https://trailblazer.fm/attack-of-the-clones/#respond
All WordPress tools to try before you die: https://trailblazer.fm/category/halloween-2022/wordpress-tools/
2022-10-2807 minTrailblazer FM: WordPress without the dramaS46E9 - Supernatural search engine optimization - Lee Matthew Jackson🎃 How to manage SEO in WordPress.
In this series, Lee looks at a range of WordPress tools that can add value to both the development process and client interactions. For each episode, Lee will define a problem, discuss his agency's solution, and share a use case.
Full show notes: https://trailblazer.fm/supernatural-search-engine-optimization
Join the conversation: https://trailblazer.fm/supernatural-search-engine-optimization
All WordPress tools to try before you die: https://trailblazer.fm/category/halloween-2022/wordpress-tools/
2022-10-2706 minTrailblazer FM: WordPress without the dramaS46E8 - Battling a gruesome WordPress database - Lee Matthew Jackson🎃 How to clean a slow and bloated WordPress database.
In this series, Lee looks at a range of WordPress tools that can add value to both the development process and client interactions. For each episode, Lee will define a problem, discuss his agency's solution, and share a use case.
Full show notes: https://trailblazer.fm/battling-a-gruesome-wordpress-database
Join the conversation: https://trailblazer.fm/battling-a-gruesome-wordpress-database/#respond
All WordPress tools to try before you die: https://trailblazer.fm/category/halloween-2022/wordpress-tools/
2022-10-2607 minTrailblazer FM: WordPress without the dramaS46E7 - Cobwebs in the WordPress admin - Lee Matthew Jackson🎃 Make it easier to access and sort data in the WordPress admin.
In this series, Lee looks at a range of WordPress tools that can add value to both the development process and client interactions. For each episode, Lee will define a problem, discuss his agency's solution, and share a use case.
Full show notes: https://trailblazer.fm/cobwebs-in-the-wordpress-admin
Join the conversation: https://trailblazer.fm/cobwebs-in-the-wordpress-admin/#respond
All WordPress tools to try before you die: https://trailblazer.fm/category/halloween-2022/wordpress-tools/
2022-10-2506 minTrailblazer FM: WordPress without the dramaS46E4 - Don't fear accessibility - Lee Matthew Jackson🎃 How to provide a more accessible website.
In this series, Lee looks at a range of WordPress tools that can add value to both the development process and client interactions. For each episode, Lee will define a problem, discuss his agency's solution, and share a use case.
Notice: This is a re-record due to discovering the third-party tool that we believed was providing people with a better browsing experience, was potentially hindering their access and not helping at all!!! :(
Full show notes: https://trailblazer.fm/dont-fear-accessiblity/
Join the conversation: https://trailblazer.fm...
2022-10-2408 minTrailblazer FM: WordPress without the dramaS46E6 - Form data has an afterlife - Lee Matthew Jackson🎃 How to do more with form data.
In this series, Lee looks at a range of WordPress tools that can add value to both the development process and client interactions. For each episode, Lee will define a problem, discuss his agency's solution, and share a use case.
Full show notes: https://trailblazer.fm/give-form-data-an-afterlife
Join the conversation: https://trailblazer.fm/give-form-data-an-afterlife/#respond
All WordPress tools to try before you die: https://trailblazer.fm/category/halloween-2022/wordpress-tools/
2022-10-2407 minTrailblazer FM: WordPress without the dramaS46E5 - Website emails resurrected - Lee Matthew Jackson🎃 How to ensure emails are delivered from your WordPress site.
In this series, Lee looks at a range of WordPress tools that can add value to both the development process and client interactions. For each episode, Lee will define a problem, discuss his agency's solution, and share a use case.
Full show notes: https://trailblazer.fm/website-emails-resurrected
Join the conversation: https://trailblazer.fm/website-emails-resurrected/#respond
All WordPress tools to try before you die: https://trailblazer.fm/category/halloween-2022/wordpress-tools/
2022-10-2307 minTrailblazer FM: WordPress without the dramaS46E3 - Fighting a comment apocalypse - Lee Matthew Jackson🎃 How do you get control of all those SPAM comments in WordPress?
In this series, Lee looks at a range of WordPress tools that can add value to both the development process and client interactions. For each episode, Lee will define a problem, discuss his agency's solution, and share a use case.
Full show notes: https://trailblazer.fm/fighting-a-comment-apocalypse
Join the conversation: https://trailblazer.fm/fighting-a-comment-apocalypse/#respond
All WordPress tools to try before you die: https://trailblazer.fm/category/halloween-2022/wordpress-tools/
2022-10-2107 minTrailblazer FM: WordPress without the dramaS46E2 - Handling scary data imports - Lee Matthew Jackson🎃 How to import complex datasets into WordPress.
In this series, Lee looks at a range of WordPress tools that can add value to both the development process and client interactions. For each episode, Lee will define a problem, discuss his agency's solution, and share a use case.
Full show notes: https://trailblazer.fm/handling-scary-data-imports
Join the conversation: https://trailblazer.fm/handling-scary-data-imports/#respond
All the WordPress tools to try before you die: https://trailblazer.fm/category/halloween-2022/wordpress-tools/
2022-10-2006 minTrailblazer FM: WordPress without the dramaS46E1 - Dealing with monster websites - Lee Matthew Jackson🎃 How do you cope with large volumes of data in WordPress?
In this series, Lee looks at a range of WordPress tools that can add value to both the development process and client interactions. For each episode, Lee will define a problem, discuss his agency’s solution, and share a use case.
Full show notes: https://trailblazer.fm/dealing-with-monster-websites
Join the conversation: https://trailblazer.fm/dealing-with-monster-websites/#respond
All the WordPress tools to try before you die: https://trailblazer.fm/category/halloween-2022/wordpress-tools/
2022-10-1906 minTrailblazer FM: WordPress without the dramaS43E5 - Outsource one small task - Lee Matthew JacksonWe often believe doing things ourselves is the most cost-effective way. This may have been true in the early days of setting up our agency, but as our businesses grow, the demand for our time increases.
Are we becoming bottlenecks by hanging onto menial tasks that could be outsourced?
Full show notes: https://trailblazer.fm/outsource-one-small-task
2022-04-2805 minTrailblazer FM: WordPress without the dramaS43E4 - Cancel a subscription - Lee Matthew JacksonWith the busy pace of agency life, it is easy to let things slide. Before you know it you’ve amassed a range of subscriptions that are costing your agency money, eroding your profitability and not adding any value. We’ve saved thousands by reviewing what we use. How much could you save?
Full show notes: https://trailblazer.fm/cancel-a-subscription
2022-04-2805 minTrailblazer FM: WordPress without the dramaS43E3 - Disable notifications - Lee Matthew JacksonConstant interruptions rob us of our productivity and compete for our attention. Trying to get your head back into a task can be difficult. Being able to minimise disruptions can help us focus better and get more done in less time.
Full show notes:
2022-04-2707 minTrailblazer FM: WordPress without the dramaS43E2 - Record your screen - Lee Matthew JacksonDevelop your SOPs as you record your screen!
Writing a process document takes time, leaves room for error, and is boring. Many of us prefer video explainers that we can follow along with and pause as needed. By removing blockers and efficiently documenting our systems and processes, we can educate our teams and free up our time for other important agency tasks. This episode explains how.
Full show notes: https://trailblazer.fm/record-your-screen/
2022-04-2606 minTrailblazer FM: WordPress without the dramaS43E1 - Write every idea down - Lee Matthew JacksonThe brain was not designed to store memories. I have lost count of the number of ideas I’ve had, told myself I will remember then promptly forget minutes later. In this season, our mantra will be, "slight changes, spectacular results". You'll get the idea from that mantra that we are going to be sharing some really slight, minute, micro, tiny changes that you can make to your day-to-day agency life that will eventually yield spectacular results.
Full show notes: https://trailblazer.fm/write-every-idea-down/
2022-04-2605 minTrailblazer FM: WordPress without the dramaWhy I quit my agency - Lee Matthew Jackson - S41-E06Note: The next season of the podcast starts in September 2021. Have a wonderful summer!
Angled Crown launched in early 2013 and was my passion for many years. Yet at the end of 2020 I began to close things down. I’d fallen out of love with what I was doing and it was draining me, physically, mentally and financially.
As the host of a show dedicated to helping agencies build an agency they love, it felt right and proper to close down what I was doing in order to allow my other agency to flourish!
...
2021-08-0418 minTrailblazer FM: WordPress without the dramaReading the reviews - Lee Matthew Jackson - S41-E04Since 2015, many of you have left reviews that have helped spur me on and have helped change the direction of this podcast. In this week's episode, I read just some of your reviews which had a massive impact on me and share some of the background stories as to where I was at.
Thank you for supporting the show over the years. If you would like to support us with a review, please click here.
Episode page: https://agencytrailblazer.com/326
2021-07-2118 minTrailblazer FM: WordPress without the dramaTrapped in the business - Lee Matthew Jackson - S40-E03I was trapped in my agency and utterly hated it. Several experiences became the catalyst for change. In this episode., I'd like to start a bit of a raw conversation and find out how you are doing. I’ll share a couple of experiences as an agency owner and how tough I found them. To discover the transformation stages we went through to turn things around, be sure to check out Episode 200.
Full show notes and transcript: http://agencytrailblazer.com/318
2021-05-1917 minTrailblazer FM: WordPress without the dramaLife is precious - Lee Matthew Jackson - S40-E02In a break from the scheduled podcast and for personal reasons I’d like to share a few thoughts.
Life is so precious. We spend much of it working hard and long hours. This impacts our mental health and our relationships deeply.
Add lockdown to the mix and those who were already struggling with various mental illnesses are struggling so much more than many of us can possibly understand.
I am grateful for the wonderful communities around us that help us all stay in touch. Shout out Facebook communities such as:
...
2021-05-1003 minTrailblazer FM: WordPress without the dramaGetting past the gatekeeper - Lee Matthew Jackson - S40-E01The battle of the gatekeeper is often the most fought by agency owners. When trying to connect with small to medium enterprises, you will often be greeted by an overzealous assistants or team members who tend to be super protective of their managers time and will often become the blocker to further communication.
In this episode we discover ways to get past the gatekeeper in order to connect with the decision makers… but… with a twist!
Full show notes: https://agencytrailblazer.com/316
2021-05-0512 minTrailblazer FM: WordPress without the dramaHow to start a podcast - Monetising - Lee Matthew Jackson - S39-E06On todays show we wrap our series with how to monetise your new podcast. These are all methods that we’ve applied to our podcast in the past and whilst there are many others, we like to teach what we know, not theory!
We will look at:
SponsorshipAffiliate opportunitiesPromoting servicesCustom products & servicesCreator donations
Full show notes:
https://agencytrailblazer.com/315
2021-04-2812 minTrailblazer FM: WordPress without the dramaHow to start a podcast - Promoting - Lee Matthew Jackson - S39-E05Over the last four weeks we’ve unpacked how to plan and create your show. With all that hard work, you will be ready to launch.
In today’s episode we will look at:
Pre-launchLaunch dayOngoing episodic promotionCommunity buildingMarketing evolution
Full show notes: https://agencytrailblazer.com/314
2021-04-2113 minTrailblazer FM: WordPress without the dramaHow to start a podcast - Hosting - Lee Matthew Jackson - S39-E04This week we look at how and where you can host your new podcast and how to get it listed. We look at free or low cost solutions along with practical advice for ensuring you get the most out of the platform you choose. Remember this is part of our ongoing “How to start a podcast” series focusing on helping you build an MVP podcast to validate that idea you may have. As with previous episodes we get straight to the point.
Full show notes: https://agencytrailblazer.com/how-to-start-a-podcast-editing/
2021-04-1411 minTrailblazer FM: WordPress without the dramaHow to start a podcast - Editing - Lee Matthew Jackson - S39-E03This week we will unpack the process for editing your audio files and compiling your podcast. We focus Audacity, an open source and cross platform audio editor however the tips in here will work for most professional applications. As with our other episodes, we are focused on helping you get the MVP podcast up and running, so we don't beat around the bush.
Full show notes: https://agencytrailblazer.com/how-to-start-a-podcast-editing
2021-04-0714 minTrailblazer FM: WordPress without the dramaHow to start a podcast - Hardware/Software - Lee Matthew Jackson - S39-E02This week we will look at the hardware and software you can use to record your show. Our approach is as a minimum viable product (MVP) ensuring a good quality recording utilising low or no cost solutions in order to validate your podcast over the next few months.
Full show notes: https://agencytrailblazer.com/how-to-start-a-podcast-hardware-software
2021-03-3113 minTrailblazer FM: WordPress without the dramaHow to start a podcast - Planning - Lee Matthew Jackson - S39-E01Over the next few episodes, I will be breaking down how to plan, launch and grow a podcast in your industry niche. Each episode will come with a workbook to help take you through each step and by the end of the series you should be ready to go live with your first show. This series assumes you have already gone through the necessary journey of unpacking your why and defining your target audience. It also assumes you have some goals to achieve with your new podcast.
Full show notes: https://agencytrailblazer.com/how-to-start-a-podcast-planning
2021-03-2419 minTrailblazer FM: WordPress without the dramaWhy we are moving beyond WordPress - Lee Matthew Jackson - S38-E11After years implementing awesome WordPress solutions we are breaking up. It's not just us... it's WordPress too! We will stay friends, we love the community and will continue to work with it where it meets relevant needs. But since we started dating, we feel WordPress has changed and not for the better.
Full show notes: https://agencytrailblazer.com/why-we-are-moving-beyond-wordpress
2021-03-1715 minTrailblazer FM: WordPress without the dramaGemini: The internet you've never heard of - Lee Matthew Jackson - S38-E10What if I told you there was a text focused protocol that is picking up steam? Whilst it is not about to replace the internet, it can teach us a lot about content, it's structure and accessibility. This week I'd like to explore the Gemini protocol with you and share some valuable lessons I've learned that are changing the way I build our future.
Full show notes: https://agencytrailblazer.com/gemini-the-internet-youve-never-heard-of/
2021-03-1013 minTrailblazer FM: WordPress without the dramaHow old-fashioned tech can grow your digital agency - Lee Matthew Jackson - S38-E09Computers the size of rooms helped win a war. A simple astrolabe helped explorers discovery new worlds. Countless classics were penned with ink on paper. Are we chasing the latest technology to the detriment of our own personal growth and the success of our business?
Full show notes: https://agencytrailblazer.com/how-old-fashioned-tech-can-grow-your-digital-agency
2021-03-0323 minTrailblazer FM: WordPress without the dramaFighting the battle of the inbox - Lee Matthew Jackson - S38-E08Does your inbox own you rather than you owning it? Over the last six months I've been changing my relationship with my inboxes to get back control of my time, productivity and worklife balance. It's an ongoing battle, and one I feel I am winning. In this episode I share what I've done so far, why, and what the benefits have been.
Full show notes: https://agencytrailblazer.com/fighting-the-battle-of-the-inbox
2021-02-2418 minTrailblazer FM: WordPress without the dramaProductivity is not about doing more - Lee Matthew Jackson - S38-E07Productivity is addictive and too much of a good thing can be bad for you. This week I share how I became addicted to productivity and lost sight of my why. In a refreshingly honest look at myself, I call out my ego, share changes in my life and the amazing impact it’s had on the business.
Full show notes: https://agencytrailblazer.com/productivity-is-not-about-doing-more/
2021-02-1721 minTrailblazer FM: WordPress without the dramaHow to break bad habits - Lee Matthew Jackson - S38-E06A bad habit can be the limiting factor in your success. It could be something as simple as a tendency to procrastinate or an addiction to sugar that prevents you from being successful on your quest for happiness and growth.
Full show notes: https://agencytrailblazer.com/how-to-break-bad-habits/
2021-02-1015 minTrailblazer FM: WordPress without the dramaWhy I am quitting social media - Lee Matthew Jackson - S38-E05I am quitting social media. In this episode I explore the reasons why and how I will be showing up online in the future.
Full show notes: https://agencytrailblazer.com/why-i-am-quitting-social-media/
2021-02-0327 minTrailblazer FM: WordPress without the dramaHow much it costs to run a web design agency - Lee Matthew Jackson - S38-E04Knowing how much things cost is essential to the profitability and growth of your agency. Many agency owners quote on web projects without a clear understanding of their business costs or how that relates to the project they are quoting on.
Full show notes here: https://agencytrailblazer.com/how-much-it-costs-to-run-a-web-design-agency/
2021-01-2827 minTrailblazer FM: WordPress without the dramaHow to run a lean agency - Lee Matthew Jackson - S38-E03The last 12 months have forced business owners around the world to find new ways of delivering their products and services. For many this has lead to significant savings leaning on technology to help build leaner more efficient business models.
Full show notes here : https://agencytrailblazer.com/how-to-run-a-lean-agency/
2021-01-2123 minTrailblazer FM: WordPress without the dramaOpen source software for web designers - Lee Matthew Jackson - S38-E02Proprietary software can get expensive and even the biggest commercial players are not always the best. Over the last 22 years I’ve used open source software either due to my budget or my love for the open source community.
Full show notes here - https://agencytrailblazer.com/open-source-software-for-web-designers/
2021-01-1428 minTrailblazer FM: WordPress without the drama9 productivity tools for your web design agency - Lee Matthew Jackson - S38-E01Improved productivity is essential for any web design agency to grow and flourish. Poor communication and business workflows may be OK at the beginning but they will begin to erode the quality of your output and rob you and your team of countless hours.
Full show notes here - https://agencytrailblazer.com/9-productivity-tools-for-your-web-design-agency/
2021-01-0720 minTrailblazer FM: WordPress without the dramaWhat I am grateful for this Christmas 2020 - Lee Matthew Jackson - S37-E10Whilst 2020 has been a difficult year, there have still been things I can be grateful for. In our Christmas Special, I’d like to share with you some Christmas memories and some of the positives we’ve experienced from 2020.
Full show notes here: https://agencytrailblazer.com/what-i-am-grateful-for-this-christmas-2020/
2020-12-2320 minTrailblazer FM: WordPress without the dramaSetting goals and how to achieve them - Lee Matthew Jackson - S37-E09Another new year is on the horizon, so let’s look at how we set goals for our business that are achievable and satisfying. As creatives we are very driven yet so often feel we’ve not met our true potential. This internal struggle erodes the joy we have in our achievements and leaves us feeling like we need to do more.
Full show notes here - https://agencytrailblazer.com/setting-goals-and-how-to-achieve-them/
2020-12-1609 minTrailblazer FM: WordPress without the dramaDealing with rejection - Lee Matthew Jackson - S37-E08There is no worse feeling than your proposal being rejected by a prospective client. All those hours spent on it can't be recovered. 😭 The excitement you may have felt about the project dashed in an instant.
Full show note: https://agencytrailblazer.com/dealing-with-rejection/
2020-12-0910 minTrailblazer FM: WordPress without the dramaWhat to ask during website discovery - Lee Matthew Jackson - S37-E07Ever wondered what questions to ask during a basic website discovery? Worried you might not capture everything you need to put together a winning proposal? In this episode I share the essential questions we use for our initial website discovery. This helps us to collate enough information to create an accurate reverse brief and to establish a reasonable budget.
Full show notes: https://agencytrailblazer.com/what-to-ask-during-website-discovery
2020-12-0216 minTrailblazer FM: WordPress without the dramaHow to be productive during lockdown - Lee Matthew Jackson - S37-E05For those folks used to the office environment, life has been turned upside down. No take out coffee, no chatting at the water cooler, no podcast on the commute and no cheesy banter being thrown across the room. Seeing the virtual head and shoulders of those you've grown close to over the years is not the same as being together.
Here in the UK we are going through our second nationwide lockdown. I'll be honest with you... I am finding this one really difficult. I miss my team and getting work done is often more of a...
2020-11-1812 minTrailblazer FM: WordPress without the dramaHow to start a web design business - Lee Matthew Jackson - S37-E04You might be doing it all wrong! Hear me out. Did your design hobby become a business because people started offering you money for your services? This is how many web design agencies were born, including my own and that is where the problem begins.
In this episode I will share with you some essentials for starting right. Set up your web design business for success with firm a foundation and with a clear strategy
Full show notes - https://agencytrailblazer.com/how-to-start-a-web-design-business
2020-11-1113 minTrailblazer FM: WordPress without the dramaHow to set boundaries (and why it is important) - Lee Matthew Jackson - S37-E03Have you found yourself responding to emails late at night before bed? Do clients email you at the weekend expecting results first thing Monday? If these or similar scenarios ring true, then you have a boundary issue that could be affecting your health, your business, and your family life.
Full show notes: https://agencytrailblazer.com/how-to-set-boundaries-and-why-it-is-important
2020-11-0411 minTrailblazer FM: WordPress without the dramaAre you wasting time on social media? - Lee Matthew Jackson - S37-E01Over the last five years we've grown a huge content library and spend countless hours writing, recording and showing up online. When it came to growing the team to help us support all that we do we suddenly realised that we had no measurement for success. How could we employ somebody when we'd have no way of measuring their effectiveness.
Full show notes: https://agencytrailblazer.com/are-you-wasting-time-on-social-media
2020-10-2213 minTrailblazer FM: WordPress without the dramaHow to manage client expectations - Lee Matthew Jackson - S36-E07So often our clients expect the world from us. Over time a line can be crossed and you find yourself at the beck and call providing help and support for things that are far outside your remit. What's worse is you may even be doing this free of charge in order to keep your client happy.
Full show notes - https://agencytrailblazer.com/how-to-manage-client-expectations
2020-10-0714 minTrailblazer FM: WordPress without the dramaHow I discovered my niches (Story time) - Lee Matthew Jackson - S36-E06Your niche is not always obvious and it can take time to develop the experience, understanding and passion for a particular demographic. I share with you two occasions where I discovered my niche and how.
Full show notes: https://agencytrailblazer.com/how-i-discovered-my-niches-story-time/
2020-09-3017 minTrailblazer FM: WordPress without the dramaHow to stop working for free - Lee Matthew Jackson - S36-E04There are many ways you may be working for free. Some are by choice, others are not so obvious. In this episode we explore ways you could be devaluing your service and missing out on opportunities to charge for your expertise.
Full show notes: https://agencytrailblazer.com/how-to-stop-working-for-free/
2020-09-1625 minTrailblazer FM: WordPress without the dramaDo you really need more leads? - Lee Matthew Jackson - S36-E03"How do I generate more leads"? This is a common question in our community. In most circumstances I'd suggest you don't need more leads, you need better leads and a better nurture and conversion process.
Full show notes: https://agencytrailblazer.com/do-you-really-need-more-leads/
2020-09-0922 minTrailblazer FM: WordPress without the dramaFake it till you make it? - Lee Matthew Jackson - S36-E02You've heard the phrase "fake it till you make it"? Many agencies take this and feel they have to project an image of a large, vibrant, successful and global business that is going places. Others in the agency space try to establish themselves as authorities whilst they are struggling with the very things they teach.
Full show notes: https://agencytrailblazer.com/fake-it-till-you-make-it/
2020-09-0217 minTrailblazer FM: WordPress without the dramaManaging debt in your agency - Lee Matthew Jackson - S36-E01Back in the late 00s, my agency at the time was struggling through the global recession. Our model included print management which would leave us responsible for paying printers long before our clients paid their final invoices. Throw into the mix clients disappearing, staff cost, rent, rates etc and you can see how quickly debt can form in your business.
Full show notes: https://agencytrailblazer.com/managing-debt-in-your-agency
2020-08-2616 minTrailblazer FM: WordPress without the dramaHow to build your audience (and why you need to) - Lee Matthew Jackson - S35-E08In order to build influence, generate leads and grow our agencies need to build an audience. An audience is a group of people that are aware of you and whom consume your content.
As you build your platform and attract your ideal customers (your audience) you will find you begin to generate leads to your services and sales to your products.
Full show notes: https://agencytrailblazer.com/how-to-build-your-audience-and-why-you-need-to/
2020-08-1920 minTrailblazer FM: WordPress without the dramaWhat would you do differently? - Lee Matthew Jackson - S35-E07If you had to start your business from scratch, what would you do differently? What would you do again that worked? Having been in business you will have learned what works and what doesn't. These are valuable lessons that we can apply to an imaginary fresh start. Let's go on a journey of starting our business from scratch and see if there is anything from it you can use to make change in your business today.
2020-08-1315 minTrailblazer FM: WordPress without the dramaSigns you should slow down (And how to do it) - Lee Matthew Jackson - S35-E06I have burned out multiple times running my agencies. Why? Because I ignored the signs and kept pushing forward. I put deadlines, clients and my own pride before my health and mental well-being.
Full show notes: https://agencytrailblazer.com/signs-you-should-slow-down-and-how-to-do-it
2020-08-0515 minTrailblazer FM: WordPress without the dramaHow I landed my first client - Lee Matthew Jackson - S35-E03As a teenager, I knew I wanted to be in business. My world was very small being the small UK town I live in so my game plan was to serve my local community as a web designer.
Full show notes: https://agencytrailblazer.com/how-i-landed-my-first-client
2020-07-1514 minTrailblazer FM: WordPress without the dramaRunning an agency with depression - Lee Matthew Jackson - S35-E02I’ve been battling with my mental health many year. I’ve had a range of support including medication to keep me on track but things are still hard. Getting up in the morning is still an effort. A throw away comment from someone can still send me spiralling for days.
Full show notes: https://agencytrailblazer.com/running-an-agency-with-depression
2020-07-0816 minTrailblazer FM: WordPress without the dramaOutcome driven websites - Lee Matthew Jackson - S34-E08The website is often seen as a checkbox on a long list of mundane and irrelevant marketing activities. It tends to become an online "calling card" with little to no thought on what it should actually do for the website owner. As agency owners we have an awesome opportunity to help build websites that help people achieve their objectives and we can do that from the wealth of experience we've had getting it right and learning from when we got it wrong.
2020-06-2414 minTrailblazer FM: WordPress without the dramaWebsite discovery framework - Lee Matthew Jackson S34-E07Avoiding misunderstandings and ensuring you get everything down during the discovery process can be a nightmare! To help facilitate productive discovery sessions, we developed a framework that we've used on countless projects to ensure we capture as much as possible without missing the important elements.
Full show notes:
https://agencytrailblazer.com/website-discovery-framework/
2020-06-1713 minTrailblazer FM: WordPress without the dramaConnect with your ideal audience - Lee Matthew Jackson - S34-E05We all have a personal brand, even if we don't fully understand what that is or what it looks like. Through networking, through attending events and through showing up online, I've developed a personal brand that attracts the right type of clients to the businesses I am a part of. For me it was accidental and as I try to become more intentional it made sense to connect with Nicole Osborne.
Nicole suggested a 5 day challenge to help unpack my personal brand more, and within minute we figured it would make sense to bring...
2020-06-0329 minTrailblazer FM: WordPress without the dramaHow Lee screwed up the podcast SEO - Pete Everitt - S30-E01Now and again a guest comes along who shatters my bubble and changes my mind. This happened in this episode with Pete Everitt. Full disclosure: I have created HUGE amounts of content for 4 years and invested hardly any time into SEO just assuming that the sheer volume would take care of it. I have never been so wrong!
In fact as I have been unpacking the advice from Pete's course, I've discovered that we are performing terribly for our target audience in the search engines and we have to make some changes if we...
2019-09-2543 min
Trailblazer FM: WordPress without the dramaA personal update from Lee - Lee Jackson - S29-E06Today we get personal. Lee shares what's been going on in the Jackson household over the last couple of years and how the community and his businesses have helped him through some very dark times. Bear with us this week, it may seem dark, but there is light and encouragement at the end of all of it. The purpose of this episode is to help inspire change in peoples lives by learning from real world experiences. We often work in an untouchable bubble, then life throws it's curveballs. Our businesses are not there as a chain, but as a...
2019-09-0431 minTrailblazer FM: WordPress without the dramaHow to motivate your agency - Lee Jackson - S29-E05Agency life can frankly be boring, repetitive and stressful. Being an agency owner can be demanding, exhausting and discouraging. How do you stay motiviated and galvanise the team around you?
In this episode Lee drops motivation wisdom from our new YouTube series.
Full show notes here - https://agencytrailblazer.com/podcast/how-to-motivate-your-agency/
See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.
2019-08-2828 minTrailblazer FM: WordPress without the dramaHow to use local networking to generate leads - Paul Landa - S25-E01Local networking is so often overlooked by design and web agencies. It is assumed that our target audience does not exist locally so it is a complete waste of time rocking up to a local breakfast meeting. Paul Landa and Lee smash that assumption sharing their stories of how they have used networking to grow their agencies.
On the back of the large network that Paul has established, he shares the early days and weeks of his new venture, My Web Pal, a pay monthly web build service. He shares why he has adopted...
2019-01-2857 minTrailblazer FM: WordPress without the dramaHow to build an agency on recurring revenue - John White - S24-E08Agencies are constantly hunting for the next project. What if you could build up a business building websites that guaranteed a monthly income and removed the stress of cashflow? It sounds too good to be true but John White shares how he has achieved just that!
Lee deep dives with him into how he has achieved his monthly revenue model, what he offers, how he positions it and goes into the numbers. An episode not to be missed.
Full show notes available here - https://agencytrailblazer.com/podcast/how-to-build-a-agency-on-recurring-revenue
2019-01-2151 minTrailblazer FM: WordPress without the dramaHow to launch a turnkey website business - Matthew Rodela -S24-E03With the cost of entry for web builds plummeting, how can you possibly compete in your niche? Matthew shares how to launch a turnkey website within your niche to help capture those who cannot afford custom builds. This gives people who want to work with you an experience of your services, and helps them continue to do business.
He shares with us the common mistakes he faced when launching a turnkey website business as well as valuable lessons he learned along the way. We go from inspection, to initial build, beta launch, growth and...
2018-12-1742 minTrailblazer FM: WordPress without the dramaHow to deal with growing pains - Lee Jackson - S23-E08We discover some common issues that Lee from 2012 was experiencing. He's managed to call into the future and find out what Lee from 2018 would advize. A crazy recording we discovered from another dimension!
Full show notes: https://agencytrailblazer.com/podcast/how-to-deal-with-growing-pains/
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2018-11-2632 minTrailblazer FM: WordPress without the dramaWhat WordPress plugins we will be using in 2019 - Lee Jackson - S23-E06Today I share what plugins / features of WordPress we will be focusing on in our agency for 2019 and why. These tools all complement each other and offer massive benefit to us and our clients. Be prepared for some controversial opinions and also be sure to get involved in the conversation via our free Facebook group.
Full show notes: https://agencytrailblazer.com/podcast/what-wordpress-plugins-we-will-be-using-in-2019/
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OUR EVENT:
Do you want to make real change in your business? Join us at our in-person event Agency...
2018-11-1221 minTrailblazer FM: WordPress without the dramaHow to build and invest in your team - Lee Cockerell - S23-E02How do you build a of loyal passionate people that will grow with your business? Whether you are about to embark on employing your first team member or contractor, or you have a team of 50 plus, this podcast is essential listening. Lee Cockerell shares with us how the Disney company (a company with approximately 200,000 employees) hires team members, invests in them and facilitates their growth and personal development.
Full show notes here: https://agencytrailblazer.com/podcast/how-to-build-and-invest-in-your-team/
Our sponsor
Content snare helps digital agencies get we...
2018-10-1533 minTrailblazer FM: WordPress without the dramaAgency Life Series - Matthew Glover - Littlefish Creative Agency - S22-E06Meet Matthew Glover from Littlefish Creative Agency. Littlefish Creative is an exciting full-service creative agency based in Leamington Spa, Warwickshire. Although specialising in branding, the agency works across all creative disciplines including illustration, video production, photography and more. Fanatic about design, Littlefish started off small but has big ambitions and is fast growing in reputation, client base and global presence, boasting clients across the UK and UAE.
Full show notes here: https://agencytrailblazer.com/podcast/agencylife-series-matthew-glover-littlefish-creative-agency/
Our sponsor
Content snare helps digital agencies get website & m...
2018-09-2812 minTrailblazer FM: WordPress without the dramaHow to quote the right price for a project - Lee Jackson - S21-E03When pricing up any project we often struggle with two main fears. "Will I price this too high" or "Will I not charge enough". How can you be sure you are charging a price that is good for your client and for your business? In this episode Lee shares a mindset he uses to work out how he should be pricing a project if at all.
Full show notes here: https://agencytrailblazer.com/podcast/how-to-quote-the-right-price-for-a-project/
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2018-09-0325 minTrailblazer FM: WordPress without the dramaThe Impact of GDPR On Your Website - Lee Jackson - S16-E07What is the impact of GDPR on your website and what should you be doing about it?
This episode serves educate as well as help build a framework for tackling compliance with your website.
You can find our full article here: https://angledcrown.com/gdpr-for-websites/
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OUR EVENT:
Do you want to make real change in your business? Join us at our in-person event Agency Transformation Live
Meet Troy Dean; Lee Jackson, Chris...
2018-04-2328 minTrailblazer FM: WordPress without the dramaWordCamp London 2018 - Lee Jackson & Community - S16-E06A grouping of recordings, calls and soundbites from WordCamp London 2018. We had such a wonderful time, built on our friendships, made new friends and learned so much.
I had the privilege of speaking at the conference. You can grab the slide deck here.
Recordings include:
Nathan from WP BuildsRobbie from Beaver BuilderPaul LaceyImogen Allen from Digital Umbrella
Shout outs
You can find the WordCamp website by clicking here.
2018-04-1645 minTrailblazer FM: WordPress without the dramaHow to manage costs in agency life - Lee Jackson - S16-E02Being profitable is not always about selling more and gaining more clients. In this workshop we talk through basic cost management and how we keep our finger on our financial pulse to make informed decisions and ensure we have a good balanced approach to work and play.
PROFIT AND LOSS
It is essential to know the current state of play. What do you have coming in? What is going out?
This allows you...
2018-03-1920 minTrailblazer FM: WordPress without the dramaThe One Hundredth Episode - Lee Jackson - S13-E04We made it to Episode One Hundred! Today I share the story of the podcasts birth and its growth as well as the lessons learned along the way. We wrap up the show with some honest talk and some plans for the future.
The Facebook Group:
https://angledcrown.com/group
Covered in todays show:
Lessons learned
It's possible to be consistentBig names are not everythingI can become an authorityGenerates leadsGrows my networkGrowth in confidenceBecome super creativeHow to effectively batchGood processesHow to diversify and repurpose
Things I am still working...
2017-10-2743 minTrailblazer FM: WordPress without the dramaOnboarding And Client Communication - Laura Elizabeth - S12-E06Getting the onboarding process right will set your project up for success. Laura is a designer, and has launched an exciting product called Client Portal to help agencies and service businesses communicate their projects cleanly and effectively.
Laura shares her business journey, and lessons learned along the way.
SPECIAL OFFER:
Get 20% off Client Portal using the coupon: WPINNOVATOR20
Website: https://client-portal.io/
Takeaways:
Different environments work best for productivity. If you want to charge what your worth, then be what your worth at the same time.
C...
2017-09-2239 minTrailblazer FM: WordPress without the dramaHow To Monetise WordPress Websites - Lee Jackson- S07-E07Learn ways you can monetise your site and your client websites. Lee unpacks five core ways to generate income online and shares awesome WordPress solutions to help you get started.
Head on over to http://leejacksondev.com/episode55 to download our full guide with links for all the options discussed in this podcast. We made it all pretty and printable. Booya!
WordPress Plugins Mentioned Pretty Link plugin Pay Per view Plugin Leaky Paywall Ad Rotate S2 Member Plugin Buddypress PluginMembership 2 plugin Beaver Builder – Visual WordPress Builder
...
2016-12-1234 minTrailblazer FM: WordPress without the dramaWordPress Hosting - Brian Jackson - S07-E02Lee grills Brian Jackson from Kinsta all about WordPress hosting from the perspective of a web agency. OH an it is our 50th full episode! Boom :)
Recommended themes/plugins
My Theme Shop Recommended theme resource. Well coded, lightweight had has used https://mythemeshop.com/
WP Subscribe Pro https://mythemeshop.com/plugins/wp-subscribe-pro/
Beaver Builder (Lee's recommendation... again) http://leejacksondev.com/beaverbuilder
Easy Digital Downloads Can be used as a good alternative for E-commerce too. https://easydigitaldownloads.com/
Resources
2016-11-0750 minTrailblazer FM: WordPress without the dramaHow To Manage Your Time - Lee Jackson - S05-E06"Lee, I am curious how you manage your time as a business owner. How do you keep up with everything (managing people, projects, doing your podcast, social, refining processes, etc.)?" April Edwards from the WP Innovator Facebook Group: http://leejacksondev.com/group
Sooo....... Let me be honest.... It is a journey and get lost many times along the way.
Here is what I practice:
My To Do Book _ list things to be achieved _ review first thing _ what needs to be moved along a day _ be realistic
Work Hours _ early routine like...
2016-08-1455 minTrailblazer FM: WordPress without the dramaAn Insight Into Business Networking - Lee Jackson - S05-E05How do online web business generate leads through networking? Learn how we network as a web agency, both locally, through conferences and online.
Networking to generate leads
Where do we network?
localconferencesonline
What do you do at a networking meeting?
make friendsask questionslearn about other businesslook for opportunities to refer others, to help others
The 60 second pitch? What should we do?
start with namecompany namewhat problem you solvewho you solve the problem fora sample storyfinish with name and company name reminder
Get social...
meet with other people in...
2016-08-0743 minTrailblazer FM: WordPress without the dramaLee's Lessons - S05-E01Meet Lee Jackson! You may know him as the host of the WP Innovator Podcast, well the tables have turned its now his turn to answer the questions. Get to know Lee and how he got started Lee Jackson Ltd. Enjoy some epic information from the man himself and his lessons we can all learn from. Larissa.
Before we crack on, be sure to check out our awesome plugin SociPress: http://socipress.com
Twitter automation from within your WordPress website. The perfect upsell to your WordPress clients. You can check it out on leejacksondev.com/plu...
2016-07-1128 minTrailblazer FM: WordPress without the dramaSpeeding Up WordPress - Brian Jackson - S04-E06Meet Brian LEE Jackson from KeyCDN. Enjoy as he unpacks his top tips for speeding up WordPress, and these tips totally work because we have put them all to the test before making this podcast live! The podcast website is currently ZIPPING! Top 3 Speed
Tips:
1. Get a CDN (Example: http://leejacksondev.com/keycdn)
2. Optimise Your Images (Example: https://optimus.io/en/)
3. Control where JS/CSS is called (Plugin: https://tomasz-dobrzynski.com/wordpress-gonzales)
Speed Up WordPress Blogs: Speed Up WordPress: https://www.keycdn.com/blog/speed-up...
2016-06-2046 minTrailblazer FM: WordPress without the dramaAn Insight Into WordPress Security - With Lee Jackson - S03-E08In this episode Lee unpacks 12 areas of WordPress security to help you with your installations. Ranging from plugins, services and best practices, sit back, relax and enjoy.
If you want the full notes with links, then head on over to:
http://leejacksondev.com/securitydownload
Don't forget to come catch up with us at the WP Innovator Facebook Group:
http://leejacksondev.com/group
Keep Innovating :)
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2016-05-0941 minTrailblazer FM: WordPress without the dramaSocial Media In Our Agency - S02-E04Sit back and relax with Lee as he shares the story of how he and the team changed direction with their social media strategy. A fascinating insight into the thought process, actions and activities of the team within a digital agency.
Hear Lee lay out all the problems faced, and the solutions that were put in place. The story is taken right up to the present day because this is an ever evolving adventure.....
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2016-02-1541 minTrailblazer FM: WordPress without the dramaValuing Time To Make Better Decisions - Jon Perez - S01-E07We were honoured to have Jon Perez from Sure Fire Web Services on the podcast today. He was introduced to us by Kim Doyal the WP Chick, and we had a blast. Join Lee and Jon as they giggle through a 40 minute podcast, whilst value bombs drop left right and centre!
Special Offer:
As a listener to the WP Podcast, we'd like to add more value to your business, so lets have a free 10 minute strategy call with you and Lee Jackson. Check out the details here: http://leejacksondev.com/freecall
2016-01-1144 minTrailblazer FM: WordPress without the dramaTroy Dean - Building A Better WordPress Business - S01-E05Join Lee as he talks with the one and only Troy Dean of WP Elevation Fame!
COMING UP NEXT WEEK! Lee talks with Jan Koch from http://jkoch.me, restart specialist and all round amazing guy!
Do you want to get involved with the podcast? Get in touch on:
http://leejacksondev.com/contact/
Show notes:
*For those with audio impairment, we have transcribed the full conversation here:
http://leejacksondev.com/podcast/transcripts/episode-5-troy-dean/*
Main Takeaway:
Unsubscribe...
2015-12-2846 minTrailblazer FM: WordPress without the dramaLearning And Monetising New Skills – Laurence Bradford - S01-E04Join Lee as he talks with Laurence Bradford from LearnToCodeWith.me.
Laurence not only shares the value of learning new skills as an entrepreneur, but also shares some valuable insights into how she runs her own business and generates revenue through content marketing and more.
COMING UP NEXT WEEK! Lee talks with Troy Dean. Troy is a LEGEND... Episode not to be missed! Subscribe today.
Do you want to get involved with the podcast? Get in touch on:
http://leejacksondev.com/contact/
Show notes:
...
2015-12-2140 minTrailblazer FM: WordPress without the dramaEpisode 000 - About the WP Innovator PodcastIn episode 000, you will be introduced to your host, Lee Jackson and learn all what the WP Innovator Podcast is about, what is in it for you, and how to get involved.
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Do you want to make real change in your business? Join us at our in-person event Agency Transformation Live
Meet Troy Dean; Lee Jackson, Chris Ducker, Kelly Baader, Amy Woods, Paul Lacey, Dave Foy and other legends in this fantastic conference focused on actionable steps that you can use to t...
2015-11-2708 min