Patient Profile
Name: Jim McMillen
Age: 52
Experience: 20+ years in web design & development
Specialties: WordPress development, maintenance, speed optimization, emergency support
Diagnosis: Career downsized, but passion undiminished
How Jim McMillen Turned a Career Setback Into a Thriving WordPress Practice
The Symptoms
For over two decades, Jim McMillen thrived as a WordPress developer and maintenance specialist. He spent his career building, fixing, and optimizing websites for agencies and clients who trusted his skillful hands.
But then, the unexpected happened: downsizing. The steady paycheck stopped, and the job market wasn’t exactly rolling out the welcome mat. Despite 20 years of experience, doors weren’t opening right away.
Jim faced a crossroads: wait for another employer to see his value—or finally take the leap into building something of his own.
The Diagnosis
Instead of letting the downtime become defeat, Jim diagnosed his own situation:
The industry was changing. Businesses increasingly needed independent WordPress specialists instead of full-time hires.
His skillset was strong. Maintenance, speed optimization, and emergency support were high-demand services.
His passion was alive. Jim still loved the craft of building and maintaining websites.
The treatment plan became clear: start a business dedicated to keeping WordPress sites healthy.
The Treatment Plan
Building The WordPress Doctor wasn’t as simple as flipping a switch. Like any big recovery, it came with challenges to tackle head-on:
1. Creating a Brand & Website
Jim needed a digital home that reflected his expertise. Out of that process was born Dr. W.P. Fixit, a friendly, cartoon-styled physician for websites—ready to diagnose, treat, and maintain sick or sluggish WordPress installs.
2. Business Foundations
Setting up shop meant more than just spinning up a WordPress install:
Filing for an LLC
Learning the ropes of business taxes
Sorting out contracts, policies, and other legal must-haves
3. Marketing & Promotion
Jim rolled up his sleeves to get the word out:
A marketing plan designed to attract leads and build authority
Social media platforms tailored to The WordPress Doctor’s voice
Email & newsletter templates for ongoing patient communication
Lead generation assets (checklists, guides, and resources) to build trust
The Prognosis
Jim’s now standing at the launchpad, ready to officially debut The WordPress Doctor. The prescription: find the first wave of clients who need expert care for their WordPress sites.
With 20 years of experience, a playful yet professional brand, and a clear set of services—including WordPress design, maintenance, speed optimization, and emergency support—the practice is open.
Doctor’s Orders
For anyone reading Jim’s story, here’s what you can take away:
Reframe setbacks as opportunities. Downsizing isn’t an ending—it can be the chance to finally build something of your own.
Treat your business setup like a website launch. Secure the foundations (LLC, taxes, contracts) before scaling.
Marketing is medicine. Without visibility, even the best services won’t find patients. Invest in social media, email, and lead magnets early.
Play the long game. Success doesn’t happen overnight, but consistent care leads to a healthy practice.
Final Word from Dr. W.P. Fixit
“Sometimes the hardest diagnoses lead to the best recoveries. Jim turned a career setback into a new mission: helping websites live long, healthy lives. The Doctor is officially in.”
