Mastering the Art of WordPress Custom Development

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Summary:

In this episode of the Agency Rocket Show, hosts Liz and Chelsea are joined by Cameron Ramaekers, the founder of Open Caret. They delve into Cameron's journey from web developer to business owner, discussing the evolution of web development and industry trends. Cameron shares insights from his transition to running his own company, including the challenges of wearing multiple hats and the importance of finding a niche. The conversation also touches on the value of building relationships with clients and agencies, and Cameron's personal approach to web development, which emphasizes quality and specialization over trying to do everything. The episode is a blend of professional wisdom and personal anecdotes, providing a comprehensive look at the life of a web development entrepreneur.

Chapters:

Cameron's Background (00:01:44)
Cameron shares how he started as a developer and transitioned to freelance work, leading to the founding of his company.

Working with Agencies vs. Clients (00:03:29)
Cameron discusses the pros and cons of working with agencies and clients directly and the satisfaction derived from seeing clients happy with the work.

Changes in Web Development (00:07:27)
Cameron talks about the evolution of web development, including the increasing focus on speed and mobile optimization, as well as the integration of various tools.

Outdated Web Development Features (00:09:24)
Cameron highlights the decline of certain web features, such as carousels and excessive animations, and the shift towards a simpler user experience.

Future Web Design Trends (00:11:22)
Cameron mentions the potential resurgence of skeuomorphism in web design and the anticipation of new design trends for 2024.

Coding and Web Development (00:12:07)
Discussion about early experiences with coding and web development, including using MySpace and starting a career in web design.

Entrepreneurial Lessons (00:16:19)
Cameron's experience of wearing multiple hats as a business owner, learning about taxes, and the challenges of letting go of control.

Family and Business (00:19:08)
The flexibility of self-employment and the responsibility of running a business while raising a family.

Staying Singular in Business (00:20:33)
Cameron's intentional decision to remain a solo web developer, his role in the industry, and the challenges of growing a team.

Day Cloud Events (00:23:26)
Discussion about the benefits of social events for remote workers and the importance of feeling part of a team.

Entering Web Development (00:24:31)
Advice for aspiring web developers, including the need to focus on specific skills and finding a niche.

WordPress Custom Development (00:27:45)
The decision to focus on WordPress development due to client demand and the misconception about WordPress developers.

E-Commerce Websites (00:30:52)
Challenges and complexities of e-commerce websites, including logistical and business considerations.

Closing Thoughts (00:33:30)
Final tips, tricks, and a humorous anecdote shared by the guest.

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Cameron Ramaekers

Cameron Ramaekers is the owner of Open Caret, a web development company in Omaha, Nebraska. He started his career as an Interactive Developer at a large advertising agency in Nebraska. After growing a freelance development clientele on evenings and weekends, he made the decision to leave his job and formed Open Caret in 2015. Since then, Cameron has partnered with marketing agencies and companies of all sizes to plan, design, build and support websites. His portfolio includes work from here in the Midwest to as far away as Zürich, Switzerland. Cameron greatly values the freedom and flexibility of self-employment, especially as a new dad. Outside of work, he enjoys keeping up with his young son, trying new recipes and restaurants with his wife and exercising with June, their Australian Shepherd.