In this episode of Business Growth Hacks, hosts Andrew Brockenbush and the John get into WordPress maintenance strategies that every small business owner and entrepreneur should know. From routine backups to staging sites, discover how to navigate updates without risking downtime or headaches. Tune in to master these five essential steps and keep your website running like a pro!  Key Points:  [0:00] - Introduction to WordPress Maintenance Why regular updates and proper preparation are critical for a smooth website experience.  [0:54] - Step 1: Check Your PHP Version  Understanding PHP and why upgrading to version 7.4 or higher enhances speed and security.  [2:19] - Step 2: Backup Your Site  The importance of database and full-site backups as a safety net for any update mishap.  [2:51] - Step 3: Set Up a Staging Site  How to test updates in a staging environment to prevent issues on your live website.  [3:40] - Step 4: Update Plugins and Themes Safely  Avoid compatibility issues by updating plugins individually and replacing outdated ones.  [4:39] - Step 5: Try the Beta Tester Plugin (Bonus Step)  For tech-savvy users, beta testing offers a sneak peek into future WordPress features.  [6:18] - Final Thoughts: Why These Steps Matter  Save time and avoid stress by staying proactive with your WordPress maintenance.  Quotable Moments:  [1:54] - “Always, always, always back up your site before an update. This is your insurance policy.” - Andrew Brockenbush  [2:51] - “It's better to find out on a test site that you have an issue rather than on your live site or from customers trying to purchase.” - Andrew Brockenbush  [6:18] - “A few simple steps now can save you a world of hassle down the road.” - Andrew Brockenbush  Links Mentioned:  Beefy Marketing: https://www.beefymarketing.comBackup Plugins: Updraft Plus: https://updraftplus.comBackupBuddy: https://ithemes.com/backupbuddy/Staging Plugins: WordPress Staging: https://wordpress.org/plugins/wp-staging/Duplicator: https://wordpress.org/plugins/duplicator/Proper WordPress maintenance ensures your site stays secure, fast, and reliable. Implementing these steps can save you significant time and trouble. Don’t forget to subscribe, share this episode with fellow business owners, and connect with Beefy Marketing for more insights to grow your business! 

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