EDGE of the Web - The Best SEO Podcast for Today's Digital Marketer

Top Google contributor and owner of Sterling Sky, Joy Hawkins, joins the EDGE this week. Joy has been a renowned SEO speaker and influencer since 2006 and has been growing a top local SEO agency since 2017. How does local SEO differ from traditional SEO? Listen in as Joy shares her industry experience and delivers tactical strategies for executing premier-level local SEO. Google has been growing a much deeper focus on niche markets and authenticity factors. Learn how to leverage this shift to niche-level queries for your clients. Get ahead of the algorithm as we uncover the best local SEO strategies you should be following this week on the EDGE of the Web! Give our new sponsor a try! Riverside.fm has a special deal for our listeners! Use our link and the code "Edgeoftheweb" for a 15% discount of their podcast recording service! Key Segments: [00:03:57] Introducing Joy Hawkins [00:05:40] Joy’s Backstory in the Industry [00:06:53] Taking the Role of an Educator in the Space [00:08:15] EDGE of the Web Title Sponsor: Site Strategics [00:09:29] SEO vs. Local SEO [00:13:24] Valuable Tactics in Local SEO [00:18:13] EDGE of the Web Sponsor Riverside.fm [00:20:18] Why User-Generated Content is Such a Major Factor in Today’s SEO [00:24:27] How Do We Know That Citation Platforms Aren’t Being Indexed on Google? [00:25:59] Entering Into Niche Markets [00:31:57] EDGE of the Web Sponsor Wix [00:33:08] Why do Operating Hours Affect Rankings? [00:37:37] Local SEO Recommendations For a Small Budget Thanks to Our Sponsors! Site Strategics: http://edgeofthewebradio.com/site Wix: http://edgeofthewebradio.com/wix Riverside: https://edgeofthewebradio.com/riverside Follow Our Guest Twitter:https://twitter.com/JoyanneHawkins LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joyhawkins/?originalSubdomain=ca

Welcome back for another week of news from the EDGE! Google is jumping into the CRM market as it plans to acquire HubSpot for $34 billion. Some experts speculate this will spark even more challenges for Google concerning antitrust regulations. New fake AI-generated law firms are accusing people of copyright infringement at a mass scale… and the true motive may surprise you. Should you be labeling your AI content? Tech giants Google, YouTube, Meta, and TikTok are urgently pushing for users to label their AI content! Plus, many fear the potential influence China may have on the 2024 election through widespread AI misinformation. Things are moving around in the SEO space; here’s everything you need to stay ahead here on the EDGE of the Web! News from the EDGE: [00:03:27] EDGE of the Web Sponsor: Site Strategics [00:08:48] Is Google Eyeing HubSpot for Acquisition? [00:11:54] Data Reveals Shortcomings in Privacy Tools [00:15:15] Shady SEO: Fake Law Firms Use Fake DMCA Threats for Gains AI Blitz: [00:23:48 ] Labeled: A New Wave Of AI Content Labeling Efforts [00:32:40] Microsoft: China plans to disrupt elections with AI-generated disinformation AI Tools: [00:34:24] Fix your blurry photos using AI [00:35:43] EDGE of the Web Sponsor: InLinks Barry Blast from Search Engine Roundtable: [00:37:50] Google SGE Testing Tabs In AI Overviews [00:40:33] Google: Ad Strength Is Not Used In Ad Auction [00:42:15] Microsoft's Fabrice Canel: SEOs Don't Realize Bing Search Usage Thanks to our sponsors! Site Strategics https://edgeofthewebradio.com/site Inlinks https://edgeofthewebradio.com/inlinks Follow Us: Twitter: @ErinSparks Twitter: @MordyOberstein Twitter: @TheMann00 Twitter: @EDGEWebRadio Resources Is Google Eyeing HubSpot for Acquisition?Data Reveals Shortcomings in Privacy ToolsShady SEO: Fake Law Firms Use Fake DMCA Threats for Gains Labeled: A New Wave Of AI Content Labeling EffortsWill AI Replace SEO Specialists?Microsoft: China plans to disrupt elections with AI-generated disinformationDriver AI explains millions of lines of code in minutes instead of monthsAI infrastructure for customer supportFix your blurry photos using AIGoogle SGE Testing Tabs In AI OverviewsGoogle: Ad Strength Is Not Used In Ad AuctionMicrosoft's Fabrice Canel: SEOs Don't Realize Bing Search Usage #StandwithUkraine edgeofthewebradio.com/ukraine

Welcome back to the OG webmaster, Simon Cox, for his second interview segment. Simon began his career in commercial graphic design. In this episode, Simon connects the dots between certain artistic frameworks and principles that can be applied to your SEO strategy. How does the emergence of AI imagery affect SEO as a whole? We investigate how users and engines alike perceive AI imagery compared to human-generated imagery and how you can leverage the ‘human touch’ to your advantage. Join us this week as we discover what AI design really means for SEO moving forward here on the EDGE of the Web! Give our new sponsor a try! Riverside.fm has a special deal for our listeners! Use our link and the code "Edgeoftheweb" for a 15% discount of their podcast recording service! Key Segments [00:04:28 ] Reintroducing Simon Cox [00:05:25] What Kind of Art Did Simon Work With Early on in His Career? [00:08:58] Can Artistic Principles be Applied to SEO? [00:12:22] EDGE of the Web Title Sponsor: Site Strategics [00:13:09] Building a Visual Design That Compliments User Expectations [00:16:41] How is AI Imagery Perceived Differently Than Authentic Imagery? [00:21:27] EDGE of The Web Sponsor: Riverside [00:23:45] Does AI Hurt The Integrity of SEO? [00:31:06] What Can We Do to Grow The Reputation of SEOs? [00:33:07] EDGE of The Web Sponsor: Wix [00:34:21] Simon Cox SEO Pro Tip Thanks to Our Sponsors! Site Strategics: http://edgeofthewebradio.com/site Wix: http://edgeofthewebradio.com/wix Riverside: https://edgeofthewebradio.com/riverside Follow Our Guest Twitter: https://twitter.com/simoncox LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/simonmcox/?originalSubdomain=uk Mastodon: @simoncox@seocommunity.social Resources https://www.simoncox.com/ https://www.wix.com/seo/learn/experts/simon-cox https://www.coxand.co.uk/

Erin Sparks is back behind the Digital News Desk this week to deliver a groundbreaking news flash - Google greenlights Microsoft's 53% acquisition, handing over a majority stake to Bill and the crew. Did we get ya? Happy April Fools from all of us at EDGE of the Web! This week we investigate a new lawsuit against Facebook and Instagram as allegations pile up claiming the social platforms are allegedly delivering ads to bot accounts and inflating ad viewership metrics to their advertisers. Google STILL has not announced a launch date for SGE; here’s the scoop. Plus, OpenAI released a new feature opening a whole new spectrum of possibilities. Kick-off this April right and tune in for what is and isn't happening in SEO right here on the EDGE! News from the EDGE: [00:07:16] Facebook and Instagram Accused of Bilking Advertisers in $7 Billion Lawsuit [00:09:24] YouTube Asks Creators: Hold Onto Your Videos! [00:15:40] EDGE of the Web Sponsor: Site Strategics [00:18:23] Small Website Tweaks Might Not Move the Google Search Needle AI Blitz: [00:20:29] Google still has not announced a launch date for SGE [00:26:21] Google starts testing AI overviews from SGE in main Google search interface [00:26:40] OpenAI just unveiled Voice Engine AI Tools: [00:29:28] Delfiny AI - Talk to AI Marketing Assistant for Your Digital Ads [00:30:47] EDGE of the Web Sponsor: InLinks Barry Blast from Search Engine Roundtable: [00:32:08] SEOs, Please Don't Remove Contact Us & About Us Pages [00:35:43] Google: Fixing A Helpful Content Site Isn't About Where Measuring Against The Previous Version Of That Site Thanks to our sponsors! Site Strategics https://edgeofthewebradio.com/site Inlinks https://edgeofthewebradio.com/inlinks Follow Us: Twitter: @ErinSparks Twitter: @MordyOberstein Twitter: @TheMann00 Twitter: @EDGEWebRadio Resources Facebook and Instagram Accused of Bilking Advertisers in $7 Billion LawsuitYouTube Asks Creators: Hold Onto Your Videos!Small Website Tweaks Might Not Move the Google Search NeedleGoogle still has not announced a launch date for SGEGoogle starts testing AI overviews from SGE in main Google search interfaceOpenAI just unveiled Voice EngineAdobe GenStudio: 3 key questions answeredTalk to AI Marketing Assistant for Your Digital AdsNew Google Shopping & Maps Search FeaturesSEOs, Please Don't Remove Contact Us & About Us PagesGoogle: Fixing A Helpful Content Site Isn't About Where Measuring Against The Previous Version Of That Site #StandwithUkraine edgeofthewebradio.com/ukraine

Joining the EDGE this week is web development Swiss Army Knife: Simon Cox. Simon is a pioneer in website development with almost 30 years of full-scale web construction, management, consulting, and optimization under his belt. Learn how to acclimate to industry advancements as Simon shares his experience adapting to rapid technology expansion. Listen to the wonderful insights and get to know one of the founding fathers of web design and technical SEO. We travel back in time to reminisce over what has shaped the industry and how it became what it is today here on the EDGE of the Web! Key Segments: [00:02:43] Introducing Simon Cox [00:04:08] Simon’s Career Story [00:09:54] Changes in SEO Since The ‘Early Days’ [00:13:09] EDGE of the Web Title Sponsor: Site Strategics [00:13:58] Keeping an Eye on Accessibility [00:15:17] How Did Simon Stay up to Date With Evolving Technology During the Rapid Expansion Era of the Internet? [00:23:08] Considerations Before Offering SEO Services to an Agency [00:28:41] Lessons Learned From Consulting For Agencies [00:31:33] EDGE of The Web Sponsor: Wix [00:32:45] Staying Ethical in SEO Thanks to Our Sponsors! Site Strategics: http://edgeofthewebradio.com/site Wix: http://edgeofthewebradio.com/wix Mastodon: https://mastodon.social/@simoncox Follow Our Guest Twitter: https://twitter.com/simoncox LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/simonmcox/?originalSubdomain=uk Resources https://www.simoncox.com/ https://www.wix.com/seo/learn/experts/simon-cox https://www.coxand.co.uk/

Erin was off fighting crime this week, but you need not worry because the great Mordy Oberstein and Jacob Mann took the stage for this segment. Plenty of Google this week. Study shows Google AI summaries do, in fact hurt search traffic. Google finds a new ally in Disney to expand real-time ad exchange, meaning that marketers will have broader access to ad inventory across Disney Plus and Hulu. Recent news shows that the U.S. is further behind China in AI research & development than you would have imagined. Plus, Google has an all-new filter tab. Don’t miss out on what’s happening in the SEO world this week, as always, right here on the EDGE of the Web! We’re bringing back the EDGE Newsletter! Join us to catch these headlines and many of the others that didn’t make it to the show but were really interesting! Your News(letter) from the EDGE awaits here! News from the EDGE: [00:08:13] A new study finds that Google’s AI summaries may hurt searches for brands and products [00:13:03] EDGE of the Web Sponsor: Site Strategics [00:15:10] Disney teams with Google to boost ad reach [00:19:53] Google Update Unleashes Ranking Rollercoaster: Prepare for Volatility AI Blitz: [00:25:51] Study finds that China produced almost 50% of the world's top AI researchers, compared to ~18% from the US, thanks to China's heavy investment in AI education [00:28:27] Justice Department Risks Picking the Wrong Fight With Apple AI Tools: [00:31:02] AI-powered History Teacher [00:32:49] EDGE of the Web Sponsor: InLinks Barry Blast from Search Engine Roundtable: [00:34:10] Report: No Site Hit By The September Helpful Content Update Recovered Yet [00:37:46] Microsoft Buying Ads On Google Search To Drive More Searches On Bing [00:41:15] Google Tests Products & Product Sites Search Bar Filter Tabs Thanks to our sponsors! Site Strategics https://edgeofthewebradio.com/site Inlinks https://edgeofthewebradio.com/inlinks Follow Us: Twitter: @ErinSparks Twitter: @MordyOberstein Twitter: @TheMann00 Twitter: @EDGEWebRadio Resources: Google SGE a top threat to brand and product termsDisney announces Google partnership as it expands ad platformTurbulence ahead: The wrath of the March 2024 core update is not linear Study finds that China produced almost 50% of the world's top AI researchers, compared to ~18% from the US, thanks to China's heavy investment in AI educationJustice Department Risks Picking the Wrong Fight With AppleAI-powered History TeacherZeroTrusted AIReport: No Site Hit By The September Helpful Content Update Recovered YetMicrosoft Buying Ads On Google Search To Drive More Searches On BingGoogle Tests Products & Product Sites Search Bar Filter Tabs #StandwithUkraine edgeofthewebradio.com/ukraine

Welcome back to seasoned marketing analyst, strategist, educator, and owner of BEAST Analytics, Brie Anderson, for her second interview segment. The last episode was all about setting the stage. This week, Erin and Brie will take you through the rehearsal process necessary to rock out a live GA4 performance! Learn to develop a rehearsal plan of analyzation tactics so that you can steer your content in the right direction come showtime. Now you’ve taken the stage! Get ready to execute an analytical symphony that springs the audience to their feet this week on the EDGE of the Web! [00:03:21] Introducing Brie Anderson [00:04:06] Brie’s GA4 Session at Brighton SEO [00:06:05] Testing GA4 Before the ‘Show’ [00:11:22] Can You Set Up GA4 Tracking to Expand Behavioral Analysis? [00:16:12] EDGE of the Web Title Sponsor: Site Strategics [00:17:14] What to Actually Do With All This Data [00:19:58] Is Multi-Touch Reporting in GA4? What About Assisted Conversion Reporting? [00:23:18] Benchmarks of User Experience [00:29:00] EDGE of The Web Sponsor: Wix [00:30:11] Mapping Out The User Journey [00:38:40] Brie’s Experience From Developing Educational Courses [00:41:11] Final Pro Tip From Brie Anderson Thanks to Our Sponsors! Site Strategics: http://edgeofthewebradio.com/site Wix: http://edgeofthewebradio.com/wix Follow Our Guest Twitter: https://twitter.com/brie_e_anderson?lang=en LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brieeanderson/ Resources: BEAST Analytics GA4SEO - BEAST Analytics UTM Generator Google Sheet

TikTok is potentially looking at a ban in the U.S if they don’t adhere to federal guidelines within 6 months… What drawbacks could this have for marketers? Interested in targeting the whole world on Google Ads? Not so fast! Aaaaaaaaand, it’s core update time! That’s right, the first 2024 core update is upon us with Google releasing major enhancements in search quality. Early reports saying the update targets manipulation at scale to reduce unhelpful content by a whopping 40%. We’ll keep you updated in the coming weeks but here’s everything we know now. We’re bringing back the EDGE Newsletter! Join us to catch these headlines and many of the others that didn’t make it to the show but were really interesting! Your News(letter) from the EDGE awaits here! News from the EDGE: [00:04:50] Here we go again…Is TikTok about to get BANNED in the US? [00:09:26] EDGE of the Web Sponsor: Site Strategics [00:10:02] Are Google Ads about to screw up your targeting at the country level? [00:13:06] You know what we’ve been needing around here… A COOOOOOORE UPDATE AI Blitz: [00:27:03] Google engineer stole AI tech for Chinese firms [00:28:26] Researchers create self-spreading AI malware AI Tools: [00:29:54] Suno - Make a song with a prompt [00:32:33] EDGE of the Web Sponsor: InLinks Barry Blast from Search Engine Roundtable: [00:33:09] Google: We Still Try To Avoid Overlapping Algorithmic Updates [00:35:18] Google Maps Hides Views Counts On New Reviews [00:36:25] Does Google Search Know What Is Reliable Information Thanks to our sponsors! Site Strategics https://edgeofthewebradio.com/site Inlinks https://edgeofthewebradio.com/inlinks Resources: Here we go again…Is TikTok about to get BANNED in the US? Are Google Ads about to screw up your targeting at the country level? Core Update Core Update Core Update Google engineer stole AI tech for Chinese firms Make a song with a prompt Content & SEO GPT Researchers create self-spreading AI malware Google: We Still Try To Avoid Overlapping Algorithmic Updates Google Maps Hides Views Counts On New Reviews Does Google Search Know What Is Reliable Information Follow Us: Twitter: @ErinSparks Twitter: @MordyOberstein Twitter: @TheMann00 Twitter: @EDGEWebRadio #StandwithUkraine edgeofthewebradio.com/ukraine

This week's featured guest is the owner of BEAST Analytics, Brie Anderson. Brie began her career at the age of 16, evolving into the analytic solutions expert, educator, and entrepreneur she is today. Join us on this full-blown rock concert of an episode as Erin and Brie are roadies rockin’ and rollin’ GA4 into the metaphor of a live concert! Discover how to execute the capabilities of GA4 that are worthy of a standing ovation from your clients. We walk you through the steps of the migration process while highlighting key features to help you find your melody. We’ve been rehearsing for years, folks, and it’s finally time to get GA4 up and running. Down goes UA! As we help you find your Google Analytics 4 rhythm this week on the EDGE! Key Segments: [00:03:28] Introducing Brie Anderson [00:05:19] How Brie Navigated Her Career [00:12:22] Transitioning Into GA4 [00:17:01] Setting Up GA4 [00:20:42] EDGE of the Web Title Sponsor: Site Strategics [00:32:10] EDGE of The Web Sponsor: Wix [00:33:34] How to Collect Search Traffic Analytics? [00:35:26] Final Tips For Setting Up GA4 Thanks to Our Sponsors! Site Strategics: http://edgeofthewebradio.com/site Wix: http://edgeofthewebradio.com/wix Follow Our Guest Twitter: https://twitter.com/brie_e_anderson?lang=en LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brieeanderson/ Resources: BEAST Analytics GA4SEO - BEAST Analytics

There’s a lot of movement to cover in the Google realm this week. The carnage continues as a U.S judge grants more class action antitrust lawsuits against Google. Despite the trial, Google continues to make improvements of its own - updating their Local Service Ads with a new verification process to reduce spam. Google is also testing a new feature called Popular Opinions Search Carousel intended to allow users to view opinions and reviews of various products right on the SERP. Finishing up on Google, the crew looks at a new survey that says SEO’s distaste in Google is at an all time high. Tensions have risen, where will Google turn next? Tune in this week to find out, here on the EDGE of the Web! We’re bringing back the EDGE Newsletter! Join us to catch these headlines and many of the others that didn’t make it to the show but were really interesting! Your News(letter) from the EDGE awaits here! News from the EDGE: [00:04:34] LinkedIn Boosts Quality Posts: Your Best Content Could Shine for Months [00:09:28] Google Tests Tool that Refines Existing Quality Content [00:14:41] EDGE of the Web Sponsor: Site Strategics [00:15:37] A Judge Rules: Google Must Address Some Antitrust Concerns from Advertisers AI News: [00:19:17] Elon Musk sues OpenAI over alleged breach of nonprofit agreement [00:20:51] Some users turn to AI chatbot therapists … but experts warn about the lack of a human connection [00:26:33] Elon Musk: AI will run out of electricity and transformers in 2025 AI Tools: [00:28:29] Transform any picture into a sticker [00:29:55] EDGE of the Web Sponsor: InLinks Barry Blast from Search Engine Roundtable: [00:31:07 ] Report: Google Local Service Ads To Gain New Verification Process [00:32:46] Google Popular Opinions Search Carousel [00:35:14] Survey Says Most SEOs Dislike Google Now More Than Before Thanks to our sponsors! Site Strategics https://edgeofthewebradio.com/site Inlinks https://edgeofthewebradio.com/inlinks Resources: LinkedIn Algorithm Change Could Promote Your Best Posts For Months Google Testing AI Tool That Finds & Rewrites Quality Content Google must face some advertisers’ antitrust claims, says U.S. judge Elon Musk sues OpenAI over alleged breach of nonprofit agreement Some users turn to AI chatbot therapists … but experts warn about the lack of a human connection Elon Musk: AI will run out of electricity and transformers in 2025 Brody Clark: Popular Opinions Search Carousel Follow Us: Twitter: @ErinSparks Twitter: @MordyOberstein Twitter: @TheMann00 Twitter: @EDGEWebRadio

Ola King is back for his second segment this week to unpack the role of a Search Experience Designer, and how user experience design optimization plays as a lead factor in SEO. Learn tactics for incorporating UX designs into your strategy to bolster overall SEO and digital marketing strength. Finally, understand why empathizing with the user needs to be a prioritized step in your strategy. It’s time to step up your SEO and digital marketing with a holistic approach to optimized user experience this week on the EDGE of the Web! [00:03:29] Introducing Ola King [00:05:23] What Does it Mean to be a Search Experience Designer [00:10:06] Taking a Holistic Approach to Your Strategy [00:14:17] Design and Storytelling Techniques [00:15:41] Five Elements of User Experience Design [00:21:22] Embracing New Disciplines to Stay Competitive [00:23:27] EDGE of the Web Title Sponsor: Site Strategics [00:24:13] Collecting Data to Drive User Journey [00:27:17] Learning to Empathize with the User [00:32:11] Building a UX Strategy From the Ground Up [00:34:10] EDGE of The Web Sponsor: Wix [00:35:40] Resources for Learning UX Design Optimization [00:37:49] Closing Thoughts From Ola Thanks to Our Sponsors! Site Strategics: http://edgeofthewebradio.com/site Wix: http://edgeofthewebradio.com/wix Follow Our Guest Twitter: https://twitter.com/justolaking LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/olaking

Google Local Services Ads in the Hot Seat Welcome back to the EDGE! No Mordy this week, but no need to worry because the great Cindy Krum of MobileMoxie steps in. A glitch has infiltrated Google’s Local Services Ads and small business owners are NOT happy. Google feels that the U.S government ‘hate us cause they ain't us’, as penalties pile up in post-trial brief. In AI news, Google strikes an AI content licensing deal with Reddit - who’s rankings have been off the charts… coincidence? Don’t miss the action this week, catch up on all the latest SEO news to help you excel each and every week right here on the EDGE! We’re bringing back the EDGE Newsletter! Join us to catch these headlines and many of the others that didn’t make it to the show but were really interesting! Your News(letter) from the EDGE awaits here! News from the EDGE: [00:04:36] Google's latest quest: Investigating a glitch in Local Services Ads [00:09:08] Google also unveils its new AI Assistant called ‘Help Me Write’ for the Chrome Browser [00:17:07] EDGE of the Web Sponsor: Site Strategics [00:17:50] And here’s a hot take, “DON’T BLAME US IF WE HAVE SUCCESSFUL SEARCH RESULTS!” AI Blitz: [00:22:04] Google explains Gemini’s ‘embarrassing’ AI pictures of diverse Nazis [00:28:02] Tyler Perry halts studio expansion over AI fears [00:32:20] Reddit signs AI content licensing deal with Google [00:40:07] EDGE of the Web Sponsor: InLinks Barry Blast from Search Engine Roundtable: [00:41:11] Google Most-Read Articles Search Carousel AI Tools: [00:43:22] Alpaca: A Photoshop Plugin Thanks to our sponsors! Site Strategics https://edgeofthewebradio.com/site Inlinks https://edgeofthewebradio.com/inlinks Resources: Google investigating Local Services Ads bug Google Launches “Help Me Write” AI Assistant For Chrome Browser Google: Don’t punish us for our success in Search Google explains Gemini’s ‘embarrassing’ AI pictures of diverse Nazis Massive Volatility Reported - Google Search Ranking Algorithm Update? Google Most-Read Articles Search Carousel Greeting Cards GPT Talently Mock Interview Alpaca: A Photoshop Plugin Follow Us: Twitter: @ErinSparks Twitter: @CindyKrum Twitter: @TheMann00 Twitter: @EDGEWebRadio #StandwithUkraine edgeofthewebradio.com/ukraine

Ola King started his career as a music producer, learning SEO along the way to help promote his songs and score millions of views. In addition to hosting several MozCon events, Ola practiced as a UX Researcher at Moz before transitioning into independent consulting. Search experience optimization is more valuable than ever before. Discover what metrics to be most attentive to when prioritizing UX, and learn why user experience is key to achieving sustainable SEO this week on the EDGE! Key Segments: [00:03:45] Introducing Ola King [00:05:27] Ola’s Rise into the Industry [00:17:34] EDGE of the Web Title Sponsor: Site Strategics [00:18:20] AI’s Role in Search [00:21:38] Is SEO Dead? [00:26:03] Prioritizing User Experience [00:32:345] EDGE of The Web Sponsor: Wix [00:33:46] What Role Does User Experience Play in Determining Content’s Helpfulness? [00:34:46] What Metrics Should you Focus on to Grow Search Experience? Thanks to Our Sponsors! Site Strategics: http://edgeofthewebradio.com/site Hostinger: https://edgeofthewebradio.com/hostinger Wix: http://edgeofthewebradio.com/wix Follow Our Guest Twitter: https://twitter.com/justolaking LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/olaking

The EDGE team covered a slew of news this week. Articles from Search Engine Land, Search Engine Round Table, and Search Engine Journal covered the landscape of digital marketing news, but we were able to get a couple of nice AI pieces in there. Watch Reddit folks, they just doubled down on their value by inking a $60m deal with an “unknown” AI company. Any guesses? You also want to check out Sora, the text-to-video feature from OpenAI (we will soon be in a world of video inception). Lastly, check your Meta Ads expenses this weekend. They spent your money like a teenager at the mall, and now they are sorry. We’re bringing back the EDGE Newsletter! Join us to catch these headlines and many of the others that didn’t make it to the show, but were really interesting! Your News(letter) from the EDGE awaits here! News from the EDGE: [00:03:33] Google Launches "How Search Works" Series To Demystify SEO [00:07:35] Meta Apologizes After Ad Error Causes Campaigns to Overspend by 'Thousands' [00:10:35] EDGE of the Web Sponsor: Site Strategics [00:11:31] Reddit Dominates Google Search Discussions/Forums AI News: [00:17:57] Reddit Signs Content Licensing Deal with AI Company Ahead of IPO, Bloomberg Reports [00:21:14] OpenAI Introduces Sora [00:22:58] OpenAI's ChatGPT Is Testing a Memory Feature AI Tools: [00:24:20] FirstPic.ai Unveils New Image Recognition Technology [00:26:47] EDGE of the Web Sponsor: InLinks Barry Blast from Search Engine Roundtable: [00:27:52] Google Introduces New Stories in Top Stories Section [00:28:42] Google Emphasizes the Importance of Recovery Timing and Helpful Content Update [00:30:21] Google Refines Search DMA Rich Results Aggregator Units and Refinement Chips Thanks to our sponsors! Site Strategics https://edgeofthewebradio.com/site Inlinks https://edgeofthewebradio.com/inlinks Follow Us: Twitter: @ErinSparks Twitter: @MordyOberstein Twitter: @TheMann00 Twitter: @EDGEWebRadio

Gearing Up for SGE Welcome back local SEO specialist and COO at Search Lab Greg Gifford. This week Greg joins host Erin Sparks to uncover the myths about local SEO and frequent challenges haunting business owners. Learn the common mistakes small business owners need to keep an eye on while setting up their Google Business Profile, and to wrap it all up Greg & Erin close with some highly necessary SGE talk. It’s time to master your SEO at a local level this week on the EDGE of the Web! Key Segments: [00:03:13] Introducing Greg Gifford [00:06:08] Challenges and Myths of Local SEO [00:14:25] EDGE of the Web Title Sponsor: Site Strategics [00:14:59] Issues with the Google Appeal Process [00:19:04] Flaws in Google Business Profile [00:33:17] When are we going to see Google SGE? [00:45:37] EDGE of The Web Sponsor: Wix [00:46:47] What Does the Spike in Organic Traffic Loss Tell Us? Thanks to Our Sponsors! Site Strategics: http://edgeofthewebradio.com/site Wix: http://edgeofthewebradio.com/wix Follow Our Guest Twitter: https://twitter.com/GregGifford LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/greggifford/

Google has taken a stand on fake reviews with a new reviews spam algorithm, claiming to have removed over 170 million policy-violating reviews in 2023 - a 45% spike from years past. But numbers are hard, right? How much did they actually increase? AI is jumping the gun! As silly as it may sound, you might want to check the web for a premature AI-generated obituary of yours because if you find one… you’re not the first! Please, it’s time to let go of the disavow tool finally. Catch up on all the greatest SEO news happening this week, as always, here on the EDGE of the Web! News from the EDGE: [00:03:52] New AI Algorithm Takes Down 45% More Fake Reviews In 2023! [00:09:18] Tracking Paid And Organic Traffic In GA 4 Just Got A Little Easier [00:10:06] EDGE of the Web Sponsor: Site Strategics [00:11:50] New Bulk Email Regulations from Google and Yahoo AI Blitz: [00:16:43] The UK is Outpacing the US for AI Hiring [00:18:01] AI-generated Obituaries Litter Google Search [00:21:09] "AI native" Gen Zers are Comfortable with AI AI Tools: [00:24:28] Diet Helper: ChatGPT Prompt for Healthier Living [00:26:26] EDGE of the Web Sponsor: InLinks Barry Blast from Search Engine Roundtable: [00:29:08] Google: You Won't Get Your Rankings Back By Disavowing Toxic Links [00:31:48] Google: EEAT Isn't A Ranking Factor Nor A Thing That Factors Into Other Factors Thanks to our sponsors! Site Strategics https://edgeofthewebradio.com/site Inlinks https://edgeofthewebradio.com/inlinks Follow Us: Twitter: @ErinSparks Twitter: @MordyOberstein Twitter: @TheMann00 Twitter: @EDGEWebRadio Resources: Google says it took down 45% more fake reviews in 2023 thanks to new algorithmGoogle Analytics 4 adds new dimensions for measuring paid and organic trafficNew rules for bulk email senders from Google, Yahoo: What you need to knowThe UK is outpacing the US for AI hiringWebsites with seemingly AI-generated obituaries litter Google search, sometimes listing living people as deceased and turning private individuals into clickbait "AI native" Gen Zers are comfortable on the cutting edgeDiet Helper: Your smart, personalized path to healthier eating.Google: You Won't Get Your Rankings Back By Disavowing Toxic LinksGoogle: EEAT Isn't A Ranking Factor Nor A Thing That Factors Into Other Factors #StandwithUkraine edgeofthewebradio.com/ukraine

Greg Gifford travels the globe speaking to SEO audiences throughout the year, thankfully we were able to rein him in for this week's interview series. If you want to learn the ins and outs of local SEO, Greg Gifford is your guy. With over 20 years of experience in online marketing and web design, the COO at Search Lab joins Erin to discuss fundamental strategies in achieving premium local SEO. Understand the keys to cracking Google’s Ranking Factors at a local level, and take the next step in your local SEO strategy this week on the EDGE! Key Segments: [00:03:27] Introducing Greg Gifford [00:06:04] Greg’s SEO Journey [00:13:06] EDGE of the Web Title Sponsor: Site Strategics [00:15:31] Greg’s BrightonSEO Presentation [00:24:04] Google Business Profile Optimization Factors [00:26:11] EDGE of The Web Sponsor: Hostinger [00:27:33] Varying Verticals to Industries in the Google Algorithm [00:33:49] Aligning Business Photos to Google’s Standards [00:39:12] EDGE of The Web Sponsor: Wix [00:40:23] Are Certain Ranking Factors More Dynamic Than Others? [00:45:25] Biggest Takeaways from Greg’s Study Thanks to Our Sponsors! Site Strategics: http://edgeofthewebradio.com/site Wix: http://edgeofthewebradio.com/wix Hostinger: https://edgeofthewebradio.com/hostinger Follow Our Guest Twitter: https://twitter.com/GregGifford LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/greggifford/

Hot off the dumping of Bard, Erin, Mordy, and Jacob jump into all the changes happening within Google this week. That’s right… Bard is no more, as Google announces relaunch of chat based AI tool adopting the moniker Gemeni. The UK is increasing criticism of third party cookies, putting Google on the spot. Plus, Google is testing out a new form of Generative AI, developed to answer local questions on Maps. Come join us on the EDGE for this week’s latest SEO news, and please remember to keep Bard in your thoughts as we honor the Chat bot’s mediocre legacy. News from the EDGE: [00:04:36 ] Bard Out, Gemini In: Changelog Confirms the Upcoming Rebrand Effort from Google [00:10:14] Do You Have Some Invisible Pages? Google Addresses Indexing Glitch from Last Week [00:12:03] EDGE of the Web Sponsor: Site Strategics [00:12:58 ] Tracking Trouble: Can Google Fix its Cookie Alternative in Time? AI Blitz: [00:17:58] EDGE of The Web Sponsor: Hostinger [00:19:21] Experts from 30 nations will contribute to global AI safety report AI Tools: [00:20:28] Books GPT- Your personal AI guide for discovering and recommending books [00:21:22] EDGE of the Web Sponsor: InLinks Barry Blast from Search Engine Roundtable: [00:23:34] Google Search officially retires cache link [00:24:52] Google Maps Tests AI Generated Answers For Local Questions With Local Guides [00:29:32] Google Local Service Ads "Highly Rated" Label Thanks to our sponsors! Site Strategics https://edgeofthewebradio.com/site Hostinger: https://edgeofthewebradio.com/hostinger Inlinks https://edgeofthewebradio.com/inlinks Follow Us: Twitter: @ErinSparks Twitter: @MordyOberstein Twitter: @TheMann00 Twitter: @EDGEWebRadio

Welcome founder of Content Hacker and president of Content at Scale, AI specialist Julia McCoy, who is back for her second segment this week to understand the evolving landscape of AI content. Julia explains the new roles and opportunities driven by AI optimization that are emerging for SEOs and content writers. Discover how to set parameters for AI and train these learning models to follow brand guidelines for revolutionized content at scale. Understand how to Incorporate AI into your content while avoiding all of the negative stereotypes out there. The future of AI is set to expedite the entirety of the content process as we know it. Join us as we dissect AI-assisted content at scale this week on the EDGE of the Web! [00:03:28] Introducing Julia McCoy [00:04:54] Where Does the Role of SEOs and Content Writers Lay Within AI Optimization? [00:08:43] How do you Maintain Brand Specifications When Using AI to Develop Content at Scale? [00:13:29] EDGE of the Web Title Sponsor: Site Strategics [00:15:02] How do you Measure the Success of AI Driven Campaigns? [00:22:34] EDGE of The Web Sponsor: Hostinger [00:23:56] Are There Any Studies Out There That Investigate The Effectiveness of AI Content? [00:30:09] How to Ensure AI Content Avoids Negative Stereotypes [00:33:58] EDGE of The Web Sponsor: Wix [00:35:37] Guiding AI With Structured Parameters [00:41:39] Julia McCoy Pro Tip Thanks to Our Sponsors! Site Strategics: http://edgeofthewebradio.com/site Wix: http://edgeofthewebradio.com/wix Hostinger: https://edgeofthewebradio.com/hostinger Follow Our Guest Twitter: https://twitter.com/JuliaEMcCoy LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/juliaemccoy Resources: Content Hacker Julia McCoy Books Content at Scale Content Transformation Podcast

SGE in Timeout When will SGE actually come to life on the SERP? It seems the answer is not any time soon, as Google is letting Microsoft and others take the lead in creating a generative experience while SGE remains in the workshop. Keep your eyes peeled; Google announces a plan to restart the official SEO starter guide in the near future. Meta continues its AI push. What’s next? Plus, the great Barry Schwartz hints at the next confirmed Google search ranking algorithm coming soon. Stay fresh with all the latest SEO awesomeness every week. Join us on this episode of News from the EDGE! News from the EDGE: [00:01:04] Free Ticket to BrightonSEO: us.brightonseo.com/freetickets [00:06:15] SGE is still stuck in Google Labs - will it escape? [00:12:37] WordPress security issue affecting over 1 million sites [00:16:26] EDGE of the Web Sponsor: Site Strategics [00:18:04] A big update is coming for Google’s SEO Starter Guide AI Blitz: [00:23:46] EDGE of the Web Sponsor: Hostinger [00:25:07] Meta expands automated audience targeting options in latest AI push [00:26:58] ChatGPT vs. Google Bard vs. Bing Chat vs. Claude: Which generative AI solution is best? AI Tools: [00:28:45] Jellypod - Transform your inbox into a personalized daily podcast. [00:33:56] EDGE of the Web Sponsor: InLinks Barry Blast from Search Engine Roundtable: [00:37:04] Some advertisers are unable to access Google Ads [00:36:12] Report: Custom Google Business Profile Services Impact Rankings Too [00:37:51] Storm Coming: Next Confirmed Google Search Ranking Algorithm Coming Soon? Thanks to our sponsors! Site Strategics https://edgeofthewebradio.com/site Inlinks https://edgeofthewebradio.com/inlinks Follow Us: Twitter: @ErinSparks Twitter: @MordyOberstein Twitter: @TheMann00 Twitter: @EDGEWebRadio #StandwithUkraine edgeofthewebradio.com/ukraine