David Martin Design

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Category: Networking

  • WordCamp US 2024: A Celebration of Community, Collaboration, and Creativity in Portland

    WordCamp US 2024: A Celebration of Community, Collaboration, and Creativity in Portland

    There’s something magical about visiting a new city for an event like WordCamp US—the excitement of a vibrant WordPress community coming together combined with the chance to explore the local flavor of the host city. This year’s WordCamp US took place in Portland, Oregon, a city known for its creative energy, lush green landscapes, and incredible coffee (which, let’s be honest, was very much needed!). From the moment I arrived, I could feel the buzz of both the city and the event as hundreds of WordPress enthusiasts, developers, designers, and contributors descended on Portland for three days of learning, collaboration, and community.

    Aerial view of Mt. Hood as seen from a Southwest Airlines flight, with the plane’s wing visible in the foreground.
    A breathtaking view of Mount Hood captured from a Southwest Airlines flight, with the snow-capped peak rising above the clouds and the plane’s wing in the foreground.
    Dave Martin and Jarod Maxwell standing together at the Oregon Convention Center, posing in front of a large "Welcome to Oregon" display with a heart symbol.
    Dave Martin and Jarod Maxwell kicking off WordCamp US 2024 in Portland, Oregon, with a photo op at the iconic Oregon welcome sign.
    Sign at WordCamp US Portland, Oregon, explaining the use of interaction badges for communication preferences. Green "Hi!" badge indicates the person is open to conversation. Yellow "Maybe" badge indicates they only want to talk to familiar people. Red "Try later" badge indicates they do not want to engage in conversation.
    A sign at WordCamp US Portland, Oregon, explains how interaction badges are used to communicate conversation preferences. Green indicates openness to chat, yellow signals limited interaction, and red means no conversation.

    Contributor Day: A Day of Giving Back

    One of the most fulfilling parts of WordCamp US is Contributor Day, a dedicated day where members of the WordPress community come together to give back to the platform we all know and love. Whether you’re contributing code, writing documentation, or helping others, Contributor Day offers a chance to make a direct impact on WordPress.

    I started the day by joining the WordPress Themes table, where the magic of open-source collaboration truly came to life. I had the privilege of sitting next to Manesh Timilsina, a full-stack developer whose expertise and enthusiasm were palpable. Watching him dive straight into making contributions while offering valuable advice to those around him was both inspiring and energizing. It was clear that his deep understanding of WordPress development went beyond technical knowledge—he was also invested in helping others grow.

    We delved into work on the upcoming WordPress 2025 theme, and it was exciting to see how ideas and code come together to shape the future of WordPress. Collaborating with the team provided valuable insights into theme development and the direction WordPress is heading.

    But the learning didn’t stop there. I also met Alex Lende, a Gutenberg developer from Automattic, who shared the backstory behind one of the features he helped bring to life in WordPress 5.8—the Duotone filters. Alex explained how what seemed like a small addition has since unlocked new possibilities for SVG text effects and other design innovations. Hearing about the evolution of this feature made me appreciate the incremental but impactful advancements that continuously shape WordPress into the powerful platform it is today.

    One of the most rewarding aspects of Contributor Day was reconnecting with friends from around the world and making new connections:

    • Alicia St. Rose ❤️: Her warm embrace and captivating stories about Burning Man brought a sense of magic to the day. Alicia’s energy is infectious, and her creativity knows no bounds.
    • Hans Skillrud & Donata Stroink-Skillrud: Reuniting with them after our epic encounter in the City Museum bird cage was a highlight. Their insights into privacy and legal considerations in web development are always enlightening.
    • Wendy Mahoney: Wendy’s kindness shone through and it was great being a volunteer together. She was even to help someone recover their lost phone!
    • Eduardo Telaya: Meeting Eduardo was one of the most amazing first impressions I’ve ever had. His warmth and radiance were palpable, especially after he finished his talk. His passion for WordPress and life is truly inspiring.
    Dave Martin and Hans Skillrud smiling and posing together at WordCamp US 2024, both sporting beards and conference lanyards, reconnecting after five years.
    Dave Martin and Hans Skillrud from Termageddon reunite at WordCamp US 2024 in Portland, Oregon, after first meeting at WordCamp US 2019 in St. Louis. Their beards are as strong as their friendship!

    I also had the pleasure of meeting Amy Rosborough, who runs a personal blog about gardening, book reviews, and lifestyle tips. We struck up a conversation about her site, and I was able to help her understand the differences between classic and block themes. Together, we updated her theme to WordPress 2024, enhancing the functionality and aesthetics of her blog. It’s moments like these that highlight the collaborative and supportive nature of the WordPress community.

    Engaging with Brian Rotsztein: A Personal Highlight

    Before his talk, I had the chance to engage with Brian Rotsztein, who was presenting “Innovative Pricing Strategies to Grow Your WordPress Business.” We discussed my journey, starting at $25/hour back in 2004, and how I wished his advice had been available 20 years ago. He smiled and said that’s exactly why he wrote his book.

    Attending his session was the most impactful part of the conference for me. Brian’s insights into pricing strategies were both practical and eye-opening. His realistic, down-to-earth approach empowers freelancers and small agencies to succeed. I’m excited to implement what I’ve learned into my own business practices.

    The Thank You Social: Art, Music, and Connection

    The Thank You Social was an evening filled with creativity and camaraderie. I truly appreciated the focus on including art, photography, music, and interactivity. The paint by number station was a delightful addition, allowing us to unwind and express ourselves artistically.

    Attendees of WordCamp US 2024 participate in a community painting activity outdoors at the Thank You Social, with a paint-by-numbers mural in progress.
    Attendees of WordCamp US 2024 join in a collaborative paint-by-numbers mural during the Thank You Social event, celebrating creativity and connection within the WordPress community.

    Thank you to the organizers for the fantastic food trucks! The variety of options catered to everyone’s tastes, and the atmosphere was both relaxed and invigorating. Engaging with fellow attendees, especially Grant Kinney, in such a vibrant setting reinforced the sense of community that makes WordCamp so special.

    Embracing the Spirit of Portland

    Portland truly played the perfect host. The city’s eclectic vibe and friendly locals made exploring an absolute joy. The food scene was phenomenal—I’ve never had better coffee, and the breakfast burrito at Roseline Coffee was hands down the best I’ve ever tasted. Every meal was a culinary adventure, and the local eateries did not disappoint.

    The exterior of Roseline Coffee in Portland, Oregon, featuring a modern black and gray facade with greenery and an arrow pointing to the entrance.
    The modern exterior of Roseline Coffee in Portland, Oregon, with sleek black and gray tones, greenery, and a sign guiding visitors inside.
    A beautifully crafted latte with foam art served in a white cup at Roseline Coffee in Portland, Oregon, with the coffee shop’s interior blurred in the background.
    A perfectly crafted latte with intricate foam art served at Roseline Coffee, one of Portland’s top coffee destinations.

    I had the opportunity to ride over to the Google Portland office and participate in a special tour discussing exciting new features in Google’s Site Kit and Performance WordPress plugins.

    On the train ride over, I met Mackenzie Hartung, Director of Delivery at rtCamp. We bonded over our kids and a shared love for the resurging jam band scene—turns out Mackenzie is also a Goose fan! We reconnected later at the Oregon Museum of Science & Industry (OMSI), further solidifying a newfound friendship. Speaking of Goose, it was awesome meeting Automattician Machelle Cox and working with her on the volunteer team!

    Here’s some Goose, one of my favorite bands!!

    Reflecting on the Experience

    As I reflect on WordCamp US 2024, I am filled with gratitude for the connections made, the knowledge gained, and the memories created. From Contributor Day’s collaborative spirit to the engaging sessions and personal interactions, every moment was enriching.

    Special thanks to:

    • The Hyatt Regency: Providing such a fantastic place to stay, located right across the street from the Oregon Convention Center. The hotel’s ambiance was welcoming, and its proximity allowed me to immerse myself fully in the event without worrying about transportation.
    • All the Volunteers and Organizers: Your hard work and dedication made this event seamless and enjoyable for everyone involved.
    The exterior of the Hyatt Regency in Portland, Oregon, with sunlight reflecting off its tall glass windows. This hotel served as the main accommodation for WordCamp US 2024 attendees.
    The modern exterior of the Hyatt Regency Portland, shining in the morning light, served as the primary hotel for WordCamp US 2024 attendees.
    The exterior of the Oregon Convention Center in Portland, Oregon, with its distinct spire towers and glass facade, welcoming attendees for WordCamp US 2024.
    The iconic Oregon Convention Center, with its towering spires and glass exterior, hosted WordCamp US 2024 in Portland, Oregon.
    The Portland MAX Red Line train passing by the Oregon Convention Center at dusk, with the iconic twin glass spires in the background.
    The Portland MAX Red Line train passes in front of the Oregon Convention Center at dusk, offering easy access for WordCamp US 2024 attendees.

    Looking Ahead

    WordCamp US 2024 in Portland was more than just a conference; it was a celebration of community, innovation, and shared passion. I’m returning home with a wealth of knowledge, a heart full of gratitude, and an eagerness to implement what I’ve learned.

    To the friends old and new, the speakers who inspired, and everyone who made this event possible—thank you for an outstanding experience.

    Well played, Portland. Until next time!

    Stay tuned for more insights and reflections. If we connected during the WordCamp US 2024 conference, feel free to reach out! Let’s continue the conversation and collaboration as we move forward together in this incredible community.

  • From Donuts to Data Protection: How BackBlaze Became My Go-To Backup Solution

    From Donuts to Data Protection: How BackBlaze Became My Go-To Backup Solution

    Earlier this year, I attended one of my favorite local networking events—Design & Donuts—held at The Mill in Bloomington, Indiana. For those unfamiliar, The Mill is more than just a coworking space; it’s the heartbeat of our entrepreneurial community. It’s a place where creators, innovators, and tech enthusiasts collide to share ideas, collaborate on projects, and, of course, enjoy some delicious donuts.

    A box of assorted donuts with various toppings, including sprinkles, chocolate, and glaze, set on a table at The Mill in Bloomington, with The Mill’s logo visible in the background.
    Assorted donuts served at the Design & Donuts event held at The Mill in Bloomington, where creators and innovators gather to network, collaborate, and enjoy local treats.

    The Mill: A Hub for Networking and Innovation

    The Mill provides an energetic atmosphere that fosters creativity and connection. With its modern workspace design and a calendar full of events, it’s a magnet for startups, freelancers, and tech professionals. Whether you’re looking to brainstorm over coffee, attend a workshop, or network with like-minded individuals, The Mill has something for everyone. It’s a space that breathes life into the entrepreneurial spirit of Bloomington.

    Exterior view of The Mill, a modern co-working space in Bloomington with brick walls, large windows, and a welcoming entrance, surrounded by landscaped greenery and seating areas.
    The Mill in Bloomington offers a dynamic co-working environment for startups, freelancers, and tech professionals, featuring a modern design and vibrant community atmosphere.

    Meeting Brian Beach: CTO of BackBlaze

    During the meetup, I had the opportunity to chat with Brian Beach, the CTO of BackBlaze, a company renowned for its affordable and reliable cloud backup solutions. As we sipped coffee and nibbled on donuts, we discussed all things design and technology, diving into the intricacies of web hosting, data protection, and the challenges we face in today’s digital landscape.

    Brian shared insights about his role at BackBlaze and the company’s mission to make cloud storage accessible for everyone. Our conversation naturally steered toward backups—a topic near and dear to anyone managing web servers. As someone who manages web hosting through WHM cPanel on my VPS for IndianaWebHosting.com, I’ve always had a lurking fear of data loss. But thanks to Brian, I found the solution I didn’t even know I was looking for.

    Setting Up BackBlaze: A Game-Changer for My VPS Backups

    Inspired by our conversation, I decided to explore BackBlaze as an option for my VPS backups. After learning that it could easily integrate as an additional backup destination within WHM cPanel, I decided to dive in. The setup process was straightforward, and within no time, my server was securely backing up to a BackBlaze B2 bucket.

    Brian’s expertise was invaluable as we configured the optimal backup settings for my needs. And let me tell you, the peace of mind that comes from knowing your data is safely backed up offsite is priceless. Plus, the cost of BackBlaze was a pleasant surprise—my first monthly bill was just $1.24! It’s incredible to have such a reliable solution without breaking the bank.

    Why Networking Matters

    My experience at The Mill is a perfect example of why networking is so important. It’s not just about exchanging business cards or attending meetings; it’s about forming genuine connections that lead to real-world solutions. Had I not attended that Design & Donuts meetup, I might still be navigating my VPS backups with trepidation. Instead, I now have a robust backup solution, thanks to a casual chat with Brian Beach.

    And, of course, I have to give a shout-out to Brian and the BackBlaze marketing team for the awesome new BackBlaze hat swag! It’s always great to see companies that not only provide excellent service but also support their communities and customers in fun, engaging ways.

    Two men, including Brian Beach, CTO of BackBlaze, posing for a selfie during a meetup at The Mill in Bloomington, discussing cloud backup solutions and web hosting.
    Brian Beach, CTO of BackBlaze, and a fellow attendee at The Mill in Bloomington, discuss cloud storage, web hosting, and data protection during a casual meetup.

    Conclusion: BackBlaze and Beyond

    In the end, what started as a casual morning meetup evolved into a transformative experience for my web hosting business. I’m grateful for the connections made at The Mill and the invaluable advice from Brian Beach. If you’re managing a server and haven’t explored BackBlaze, I highly recommend giving it a try. It’s simple, cost-effective, and offers peace of mind that your data is safe.

    So, here’s to The Mill, Design & Donuts, and the power of community—where even the smallest interactions can lead to significant breakthroughs.

  • An Unforgettable Indy 500 Experience with Friends and Family 🚗🏁

    An Unforgettable Indy 500 Experience with Friends and Family 🚗🏁

    Attending the Indy 500 was an incredible experience, thanks to Simon Beverton and his amazing crew. Our adventure started after attending a networking lunch at Ivy Tech’s Yellowwood Restaurant, where Simon extended a generous invitation to this year’s race. Excited about the opportunity, I brought along my son, Andrew, who is currently serving on active duty in the Army. Celebrating Memorial Day at such an iconic event was the perfect way for him to unwind and relax with us.

    We began our day bright and early, meeting at The Mill at 7 am ⏰. The journey to Indianapolis was filled with lively discussions about AI, technology, and even a bit of weather speculation regarding our race day plans 🌦️.

    Stormy day in Speedway, Indiana with dark clouds, lightning, heavy rain, and trees bending in strong winds. A sign shows the temperature at 77°F with a 90% chance of rain.
    A stormy day in Speedway, Indiana, with dark clouds, lightning, and heavy rainfall. Generated with CustomGPT Visual Weather Artist: https://chatgpt.com/g/g-twUGxmpHv-visual-weather-artist-gpt

    In Speedway, the skies do roar, Thunderstorms come, with rain to pour. Clouds gather thick, winds briskly sway, A stormy, tempestuous, wet-filled day.

    Lightning cracks and thunder booms, Nature’s fury brightly blooms. Raindrops dance on streets and roofs, Puddles form as sky aloofs.

    Stay sheltered from this stormy wrath, As weather takes its mighty path. But worry not, the sun will shine, And clear the clouds in due time.

    Sharing my eclectic taste in music with Conrad, Marcus, and Simon made the ride even more enjoyable 🎵. Despite some traffic, Simon’s expert navigation got us to the Indianapolis Motor Speedway with fantastic parking, providing a stunning view of the venue 🚗.

    A rainstorm delayed the start of the race, giving us some extra time to explore and shop 🛍️. I decided to grab some merch and kabobs for lunch, completely forgetting the rain ponchos my wife had packed 🌧️. Apologies to Andrew for getting soaked! To make the best of our situation, we headed to Ross and picked up new boots for Andrew, new shoes for me, and some dry clothes 👢👕. We even managed to find snacks, candy, and a new wallet, all for under $100!

    With our new outfits, we returned to the track, ready for the excitement 🏎️. Our seats along the main straightaway, just past turn 4, offered a perfect view of the race.

    Witnessing Josef Newgarden’s back-to-back victory up close was a thrilling experience, and we’re already planning to attend next year 🏆.

    Simon B wearing a cap with the Indianapolis 500 logo, facing the race track.
    Simon B proudly wears an Indianapolis 500 cap, capturing the excitement of the race day.

    A heartfelt thank you to Simon and his crew for making this memorable day possible 🙌.

    The camaraderie and support from my friends remind me of the bright future ahead, knowing they’ll be there to share in the fun. This unforgettable experience wouldn’t have happened without being a Mill member.