Send us a text

An unexpected conversation with a Michigander who knows a good story when he sees one and can tell a few too.

The interview, led by Bud, begins with a discussion about Topher’s adventurous experiences in aviation, including an intriguing anecdote where Topher piloted a plane over the Bering Sea during a mission trip to Alaska. Topher recounts his passion for aviation and aerospace, sharing that he earned his pilot’s license in the early 90s but hasn't flown since. The conversation then transitions into Topher’s dabble in creating desktop Windows themes, specifically a theme for the International Space Station, highlighting his proactive reach out to NASA, which led to its inclusion on their website.

As the dialogue progresses, Bud delves into Topher’s personal history, starting with his uniquely derived name, Topher, from his full name Christopher. This name originated from a misunderstanding in his childhood and became more prominent in college to differentiate from other students with the same first name. Topher also shares his experiences with almost becoming an Air Force pilot, his journey through college, and his eventual pivot from aviation to working with the internet, discovering his affinity for it and recalling the early days of internet connectivity.

Topher extensively discusses his project, HeroPress, which was born from a need to support and connect WordPress enthusiasts across the globe, especially those from underrepresented regions. He explains the project's evolution from a grand idea involving videos to a more feasible text-based format where contributors write essays about their WordPress journeys and successes. This format, according to Topher, particularly resonates with the Indian WordPress community due to its promise of unedited, authentic storytelling.

The interview touches on personal anecdotes, including Topher’s relationship with his wife, meeting in college, and their subsequent life together. It also covers Topher’s thoughts on storytelling, his love for books, especially fiction, and his interest in specific historical periods of aviation. Throughout, Bud and Topher reflect on their experiences in the WordPress community, acknowledging the perception versus reality of networking and the challenges of securing stable employment despite extensive connections.

In closing, Topher updates on his current projects, including his company focused on creating how-to videos and developing websites, while also expressing his ongoing search for a steady job. He shares about the upcoming 10th-anniversary fundraiser for HeroPress, aiming to sustain the project for another decade. The two reflect on their experiences, the dynamics of their professional fields, and exchange light-hearted remarks and observations to cap off the engaging discussion.