Hey, we are Crystal and B (or B & C).We know SEO can be a complicated thing to learn about but it doesn't have to be! A LITTLE BACKGROUND:•Brittany and Crystal met in 2018 when they were both learning about copywriting and marketing•They bonded over their shared love of helping others and their willingness to learn•They are grateful for the conversations they've been able to have that have helped them both grow their businesses.WHY SEO?•SEO is important because it can help a business be found by people searching for what they sell•SEO is simple and can be done with small changes•The best way to answer SEO questions is to think about what questions people are Googling - and answer that!Listen to this podcast and learn how you can make your website rank higher for FREE!
Brittany Herzberg and Crystal Waddell
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The Simple and Smart SEO Show podcast is an absolute gem for anyone looking to gain a deep understanding of SEO in a simplified way. Hosted by Brittany Herzberg and Crystal Waddell, this duo breaks down complex SEO concepts into easy-to-understand chunks that are both practical and applicable. As a business growth strategist and coach who focuses on growth without relying heavily on social media, I highly recommend this show for its valuable insights.
One of the best aspects of The Simple and Smart SEO Show is how straightforward it is. The hosts have a knack for delivering information in a concise manner, making it easy to follow along and implement their strategies. Unlike other podcasts that tend to go off on tangents or overly explain concepts, this show gets straight to the point. It drills down from question to solution quickly, providing actionable takeaways from each episode.
Another standout feature of this podcast is the diversity of perspectives it offers. The hosts often bring in guests with different backgrounds and experiences, allowing listeners to gain insights from various marketing professionals. It's particularly interesting when they invite older generations to share their marketing take and apply it to today's world. This fusion of ideas provides a fresh perspective on SEO and keeps the content engaging.
While it's challenging to find any significant downsides to The Simple and Smart SEO Show, some listeners may find themselves craving more in-depth discussions on certain topics. As the show aims to simplify SEO, it can sometimes feel like surface-level explanations are provided. However, this approach is intentional as the hosts cater to practical learners who have limited time. They focus on delivering bite-sized chunks of information that can be easily implemented.
In conclusion, The Simple and Smart SEO Show is a must-listen podcast for anyone prioritizing SEO in their business strategy. Whether you're new to SEO or looking for ways to improve your organic search traffic, this show has got you covered. With its simplified approach and valuable insights, it's a go-to resource for staying up to date with the ever-changing world of SEO. Subscribe today and unlock the potential of SEO for your business!

In this episode of the Simple and Smart SEO Show, Crystal Waddell (that's me!) welcomes back Ashley from Deviation to dive deep into the evolving world of search. We break down digital silos across marketing teams, explore the power of unified metrics, and discuss why brand search and intent-rich content are key to dominating the search-everywhere era. From creating demand via social media to optimizing for long-tail keywords and leveraging data-driven strategy visuals, this conversation is packed with tactical and strategic gold for business owners, content creators, and SEOs alike.

In this Black Friday-themed episode of the Simple and Smart SEO Show, Crystal Waddell welcomes John Hogan, co-founder of Grid and Pixel. We dive deep into how e-commerce businesses, especially those on Shopify, can use personalized and fully automated email flows to drive more revenue. Learn the secrets to converting visitors with targeted popups, the importance of various email flows (including abandoned cart, product browse, and post-purchase), and how Grid and Pixel streamlines everything with AI. Whether you're a seasoned email marketer or just starting out, this episode is packed with practical tips for boosting Black Friday and year-round sales.Key Takeaways:Automated Email Wins: Grid and Pixel helps brands automate both email campaigns and flows for increased sales and reduced workload.Email Flows Matter: Key flows like welcome series, abandoned cart, and post-purchase emails can significantly boost revenue.Personalization Drives Conversions: Tailored product recommendations and content outperform generic blasts.Shopify Email vs Klaviyo: Shopify email works for automations but struggles with high bounce rates in campaigns—Klaviyo or Omnisend are stronger choices.Time-Saving AI: Grid and Pixel acts like an AI-powered marketing assistant, reducing the need for costly agencies.Episode Highlights:"We realized quickly that store owners didn't want to implement email marketing themselves. They either didn't have time or didn't want to learn." – John Hogan"A product browse email can drive as much revenue as abandoned checkout emails over time." – John Hogan"Shopify email has a bounce problem—it's great for automations, but campaigns can get shut down due to high bounce rates." – John HoganListener Action Items:Audit Your Email Flows: Review whether you've set up all the essential flows—welcome series, abandonments, post-purchase, win-backs, etc.Test New Opt-in Offers: Swap out tired 10% discoText me your questions or comments!Does SEO feel confusing, overwhelming, or just plain impossible to figure out? You're not alone. That's why I created the AI SEO Foundations course, powered by Crystal GPT: your personal AI SEO coach designed for busy, creative business owners like you.Ditch the overwhelm and discover what SEO can do for your business! Head to SEOin7days.com (with the number 7!) and get started today—let's make your brand easy to find and impossible to ignore.Support the showBook a Shopify Store Strategy Call With Crystal! Want to follow up on what you've heard? Search the podcast! AFFILIATE LINKS:Start your Shopify Store!Get SurferSEO! Metricool (to be everywhere online, you NEED a social media scheduler!) Grid and Pixel Note: If you make a purchase using some of my links, I make a little money. But I only ever share products, people, & offers I trust & use myself!

In this episode of The Simple and Smart SEO Show, I'm stitting down with Ashley Liddell, co-founder of Deviation, to explore the concept of “Search Everywhere® .” From Sephora's “Black Beauty Is Beauty” campaign to understanding the evolution of search across platforms like TikTok, Pinterest, and Reddit, Ashley shares his journey to building a unique SEO agency. We discuss the fragmentation of the customer journey, optimizing across platforms, and why traditional SEO alone is no longer enough.Key Takeaways:Search Everywhere® Philosophy: SEO now means being discoverable on every platform where your audience is already spending time—not just Google.Brand Discovery vs. Intent Search: Ashley explains the difference between interruptive discovery (social platforms) vs. intentional problem-solving (search engines).Customer Journey Mapping: Understanding platform intent and audience behavior is essential to building omnichannel search strategies.Sephora's Case Study: A missed opportunity to capitalize on a 7,000% search lift after a viral campaign highlights the need for integrated internal comms between marketing and SEO teams.Platform-Specific Optimization: Brands must tailor content (video, visual, text) based on platform expectations and user intent.Memorable Quotes:“Search Everywhere® is about engineering brand discovery where your audience actually hangs out.” – Ashley Liddell“We've always conformed to Google's expectations—but what if your audience doesn't?” – Ashley Liddell“That 7,000% spike in brand search was completely missed because of internal silos.” – Ashley LiddellListener Action Items:Reevaluate Your Search Strategy: Consider where your audience spends time—beyond Google—and start optimizing there.Audit Internal Communication: Ensure your marketing, social, and SEO teams are aligned and sharing data.Review Campaign Metrics Holistically: Don't just track social performance—look at how it influences branded search and on-site behavior.Connect with AshText me your questions or comments!Does SEO feel confusing, overwhelming, or just plain impossible to figure out? You're not alone. That's why I created the AI SEO Foundations course, powered by Crystal GPT: your personal AI SEO coach designed for busy, creative business owners like you.Ditch the overwhelm and discover what SEO can do for your business! Head to SEOin7days.com (with the number 7!) and get started today—let's make your brand easy to find and impossible to ignore.Support the showBook a Shopify Store Strategy Call With Crystal! Want to follow up on what you've heard? Search the podcast! AFFILIATE LINKS:Start your Shopify Store!Get SurferSEO! Metricool (to be everywhere online, you NEED a social media scheduler!) Grid and Pixel Note: If you make a purchase using some of my links, I make a little money. But I only ever share products, people, & offers I trust & use myself!


In this episode of the Simple and Smart SEO Show, Crystal Waddell (That's me!) is joined by Shopify expert and founder of e-Commerce Savvy, Deonnah Carolus. They dive into the recent changes at Shopify, talk AI integration, theme changes like Horizon, and practical insights for e-commerce sellers. Whether you're new to Shopify or an experienced seller looking to stay ahead, this episode is packed with actionable strategies and future-focused predictions.Key Takeaways:Shopify Evolution: Deonnah outlines how Shopify has transitioned from Debut to Dawn, and now to the new Horizon theme, offering more flexibility and AI-powered tools.AI Integration: Both the theme builder and theme generator now feature AI capabilities—but success still depends on the quality of your prompts.Theme Migration Tips: Migrating from Dawn to Horizon requires rebuilding custom templates. Early adoption helps avoid rushed transitions later.SEO in Social Media: SEO isn't just for websites—Deonnah explains how it intersects with social media marketing.Pricing Services: Deonnah shares her method of pricing services based on the client's business scale and goals, not a one-size-fits-all approach.Memorable Quotes:“Google's confused for the first time since 1996.” – Deonnah Carolus“Everyone's trying to figure out how to get AI integrated into everything.” – Deonnah CarolusListener Action Items:Evaluate Your Shopify Theme: If you're still using Dawn or Debut, start testing Horizon now to prepare for the future.Play with AI Tools: Begin experimenting with Shopify's AI builder and theme generator to familiarize yourself with their capabilities.Document Your Custom Pages: Before migrating, inventory your custom product and collection pages to simplify rebuilding them in Horizon.Audit Your Pricing Strategy: If you're a service provider, consider revisiting your pricing model to reflect client diversity like Deonnah suggests.Follow the Trend: Stay informed on Shopify's updates and the role of AI in e-commerce to future-proof your store.Connect with Deonnah:Text me your questions or comments!Does SEO feel confusing, overwhelming, or just plain impossible to figure out? You're not alone. That's why I created the AI SEO Foundations course, powered by Crystal GPT: your personal AI SEO coach designed for busy, creative business owners like you.Ditch the overwhelm and discover what SEO can do for your business! Head to SEOin7days.com (with the number 7!) and get started today—let's make your brand easy to find and impossible to ignore.Support the showBook a Shopify Store Strategy Call With Crystal! Want to follow up on what you've heard? Search the podcast! AFFILIATE LINKS:Start your Shopify Store!Get SurferSEO! Metricool (to be everywhere online, you NEED a social media scheduler!) Note: If you make a purchase using some of my links, I make a little money. But I only ever share products, people, & offers I trust & use myself!

In this must-listen follow-up episode, Crystal Waddell is joined again by Marketing Director Garrett Sussman to unpack the fast-evolving world of SEO, GEO (Generative Engine Optimization), and the iPull Rank conception of "Relevance Engineering." From the power of Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG) to how AI is rewriting what it means to be "searchable," this episode dives deep into the shifts that matter most for small businesses and marketers. Discover how to test AI's understanding of your brand, stay competitive in fractured discovery environments, and leverage “happy accidents” for product innovation.

In this episode of the Simple and Smart SEO Show, Crystal Waddell is joined by Garrett Sussman, Director of Marketing at iPullRank, to unpack how AI is transforming SEO, e-commerce, and online visibility. From the recently announced Shopify + OpenAI partnership to the rise of product recommendations in ChatGPT, this conversation explores what business owners need to know to stay competitive online. Learn why traditional keyword-focused strategies are losing relevance and how to adapt using topical content, brand authority, and omnichannel visibility. Key Takeaways:AI is Reshaping E-commerce Search: ChatGPT and Shopify's partnership hints at future product recommendation features, and small businesses can already submit merchant feeds to get listed.Keyword Optimization is Changing: Focus on topics and customer intent over traditional keyword volume.Visibility Requires Omnichannel Strategy: Your brand needs to show up across platforms like Google, Reddit, Amazon, and listicles to be included in AI-generated outputs.Google is Still King: Optimizing for Google often benefits visibility in other AI platforms too.Listener Action Items:Submit Your Merchant Feed: If you're on Shopify, fill out the early access form for LLM/AI product recommendations.Diversify Content Presence: Create short, specific articles around key topics instead of just long-form content.Build a Brand Resume: Ensure your business is represented accurately across Reddit, social media, Amazon, and more.Text me your questions or comments!Hey creative entrepreneur—does SEO feel confusing, overwhelming, or just plain impossible to figure out? You're not alone. That's why I created the AI SEO Foundations course, powered by CrystalGPT: your personal AI SEO coach designed for busy, creative business owners like you.Crystal GPT walks you through what matters most for your website. Head to SEOin7days.com (with a 7!) and get started today—let's make your brand easy to find and impossible to ignore. Does SEO feel confusing, overwhelming, or just plain impossible to figure out? You're not alone. That's why I created the AI SEO Foundations course, powered by Crystal GPT: your personal AI SEO coach designed for busy, creative business owners like you.Ditch the overwhelm and discover what SEO can do for your business! Head to SEOin7days.com (with the number 7!) and get started today—let's make your brand easy to find and impossible to ignore.Support the showBook a Shopify Store Strategy Call With Crystal! Want to follow up on what you've heard? Search the podcast! AFFILIATE LINKS:Start your Shopify Store!Get SurferSEO! Metricool (to be everywhere online, you NEED a social media scheduler!) Note: If you make a purchase using some of my links, I make a little money. But I only ever share products, people, & offers I trust & use myself!

In Part 2 of this conversation, Ana de la Cruz, SEO Lead at Chartis, returns to The Simple and Smart SEO Show with Crystal Waddell for a deep dive into the human side of AI.Ana unpacks how experimenting with chatbots taught her the inner workings of LLMs, what semantic triples really mean for SEO, and how the Japanese philosophy of Ikigai helps her balance learning, creativity, and life.Crystal connects it all back to entrepreneurship — discussing the “never-ending to-do list,” living an optimized life, and how technology can make us more human when we use it with intention.You'll learn:What SEOs can learn from experimenting with AI and codingWhy understanding semantic triples and language structure mattersHow to use Ikigai to prioritize time and energyHow to optimize life, not just websiteHelpful Links:

In this episode of The Simple and Smart SEO Show, Crystal sits down with Ana de la Cruz, SEO Lead at Chartis, to explore her journey from Univision Radio to leading SEO strategy at a global media agency. Ana shares how curiosity, reinvention, and kindness shaped her path — and introduces us to the emerging concept of “Vibe Coding,” where AI and human creativity meet.Here's what you'll learn:How Ana transitioned from traditional media to SEO strategyWhy kindness and collaboration are underrated superpowers in the agency worldWhat “vibe coding” really means — and how SEOs can use it to automate and innovateWhy AI expands opportunity instead of replacing humans⏱️ Timestamps:0:00 – Welcome & Guest Intro 0:31 – Ana's journey from media to marketing 2:00 – Landing at Publicis and Omnicom 4:00 – What Chartis does (and why she loves it) 5:20 – How AI opens new opportunities for SEOs 8:35 – What is “vibe coding”? 12:19 – Ana's first experiments with ChatGPT and code 18:45 – Curiosity, courage, and building new skills

In Part 2 of this engaging conversation with content marketing expert Andy Crestodina, we dive deeper into the evolving world of SEO, AI's growing role in content creation, and the power of collaboration. Andy shares insights on balancing human judgment with AI tools like Surfer SEO, creating successful local events, and leveraging original research to differentiate your brand. Whether you're a solo marketer, business owner, or content strategist, this episode is packed with actionable wisdom and fresh perspectives.

In this episode of the Simple and Smart SEO Show, Crystal Waddell (me!) sits down with Andy Crestodina, co-founder of Orbit Media, to explore SEO, AI, and content marketing. Andy shares his insights on how search behavior is shifting, the importance of training AI to recognize and recommend your brand.

In this episode of the Simple and Smart SEO Show, Crystal Waddell (me!) sits down with Jamie Trull for part 2 of our interview to dive deep into the concept of Hidden Profit. Jamie shares her journey of shifting focus from revenue to freedom, explaining how small optimizations can lead to big financial wins. They discuss the importance of aligning business goals with life priorities, overcoming perfectionism, and how data-driven decisions can create sustainable growth—without the hustle. If you're a business owner looking to work smarter, not harder, this episode is for you.Key Takeaways:Hidden Profit Exists: Your business likely has untapped financial potential—Jamie explains how to find and use it.Optimize for Life, Not Just Revenue: Align your business with your personal goals and desired lifestyle.Small Tweaks, Big Impact: A few 2% improvements can lead to 100%+ increases in profit.Use Data Like a Hack: SEO and financial data are tools to make informed decisions, not guesswork.Break Free from the Sunk Cost Fallacy: Letting go of what no longer serves your business is a sign of strength, not failure.Iterate and Adapt: Don't wait for perfection—launch, learn, and improve.Memorable Quotes from Jamie:“What life do I want to create? That's the bigger thing that has driven a lot of the decisions now.”“You can tweak things by 2% and see over 100% increase in profit—that's the power of math.”“The only mistake is not using your data to refine the vision.”Listener Action Items:Pre-Order Hidden Profit – Get over $300 in bonuses, including a companion guide and access to a live business planning event.Join Jamie's Facebook Group – Connect with other women entrepreneurs in the Financial Literacy for Women Business Owners Facebook group.Watch Text me your questions or comments!Does SEO feel confusing, overwhelming, or just plain impossible to figure out? You're not alone. That's why I created the AI SEO Foundations course, powered by Crystal GPT: your personal AI SEO coach designed for busy, creative business owners like you.Ditch the overwhelm and discover what SEO can do for your business! Head to SEOin7days.com (with the number 7!) and get started today—let's make your brand easy to find and impossible to ignore.Support the showWant to follow up on what you've heard? Search the podcast!Join the SEO SquadApply to be my podcast guest!

Today I welcome financial educator and profit strategist Jamie Trull. We talk about the transformative power of understanding business finances, pricing strategies, and how SEO can drive real results. From doubling prices overnight to lowering ad spend through smarter targeting, Jamie shares tangible strategies and inspirational insights.Plus, a sneak peek into her brand new book, "Hidden Profit" designed to empower small business owners.

In this powerful continuation of the conversation with Heather Physioc, we explore how AI is reshaping the SEO landscape and why human-centered strategy still matters. Heather shares her framework for applying "Jobs to Be Done" thinking in SEO, especially for small businesses and creators. From empathy maps to AI content sourcing, this episode is a must-listen for anyone navigating modern discoverability. We also dive into how platforms like ChatGPT, Gemini, and Perplexity are sourcing content—and what it means for brands big and small.

In this episode of The Simple and Smart SEO Show, host Crystal Waddell welcomes Heather Physioc, Chief Discoverability Officer at VML, for a deep dive into the evolving world of search and digital strategy. Heather shares her insights on why Google isn't the only search engine that matters, how AI is reshaping the search journey, and why content needs to serve users at every stage—from discovery to post-purchase. From structured data to customer retention via social media, this episode is packed with practical takeaways for marketers, SEOs, and business owners.Key Takeaways:SEO Isn't Just About Google Anymore: Platforms like TikTok, Pinterest, Reddit, and in-platform AI search tools are becoming vital in the discoverability ecosystem.AI Should Enhance, Not Replace Creativity: Use AI to eliminate repetitive tasks and streamline workflows—not to substitute authentic human communication.Brand Experience Matters Across the Entire Journey: From awareness to post-purchase content, every touchpoint contributes to discoverability and trust.Structured Data Is Critical for E-commerce SEO: Schema and well-organized product feeds prepare brands for AI-powered commerce search.Jobs to Be Done Framework is More Relevant Than Ever: SEO should be rooted in solving real user problems, especially in the age of contextual, compound queries.Connected Data Sets = Smarter Strategy: Siloed data is a barrier. Connecting data from search, UX, customer service, and more leads to stronger insights.Episode Highlights:"Google is not the only platform out there where people are engaging in search activities." – Heather Physioc"AI has not replaced my copywriters. It has enabled them to produce more at the same high caliber.""Think beyond the lower funnel. The objective is not always a conversion or a click.""Jobs to be done isn't just a theory—it's a way to make your brand truly useful across all channels."Listener Action Items:Reevaluate Your SEO Strategy Beyond Google: Identify where your audience is searching and tailor your content accordingly.Use AI Thoughtfully: Let AText me your questions or comments!Does SEO feel confusing, overwhelming, or just plain impossible to figure out? You're not alone. That's why I created the AI SEO Foundations course, powered by Crystal GPT: your personal AI SEO coach designed for busy, creative business owners like you.Ditch the overwhelm and discover what SEO can do for your business! Head to SEOin7days.com (with the number 7!) and get started today—let's make your brand easy to find and impossible to ignore.Support the showWant to follow up on what you've heard? Search the podcast!Join the SEO SquadApply to be my podcast guest!

Ross Simmonds breaks down how AI overviews and LLMs are changing search—and what small businesses can do to keep winning. We dig into why brand and owned channels matter more than ever, how to diversify beyond Google, which third-party domains LLMs love to cite, and a simple focus formula for content distribution. Key TakeawaysThe SERP is shifting to answers and transactions; fewer clicks to your site means brand + owned channels are mission-critical. Now is the time to publish unique, story-driven content that LLMs can cite later. Create assets your “future you” will be grateful for. Diversify discovery: show up where buyers research (TikTok, Pinterest, Instagram, Etsy), not just on Google. Search behavior has shifted—people use Instagram/YouTube/TikTok for ideas and how-tos; optimize for those journeys. To influence LLM answers, seed multiple authoritative domains (LinkedIn, Reddit, Medium, Quora) with your message. “Be excellent on one channel” first; syndicate elsewhere even if it's not perfect—then expand. Optimize your life too: sleep and calendars drive better marketing than nonstop grind. Listener Action ItemsPick your “home” channel and get excellent at it for 90 days; syndicate the same posts to 2 other platforms with light edits. Publish 3–5 unique, story-rich assets this month that your future self wants LLMs to cite. Seed third-party domains (LinkedIn article, Reddit thread, Medium post, Quora answer) with your core message to boost LLM citation odds. Audit discovery: can buyers find you on Pinterest/Instagram/TikTok/Etsy for your “money” searches? If not, claim and optimize profiles. Protect your energy: schedule sleep, workouts, and weekly calendar reviews before adding new marketing experiments. Connect With Ross:LinkedinGet Ross's book: Create Once, Distribute Forever Text me your questions or comments!Does SEO feel confusing, overwhelming, or just plain impossible to figure out? You're not alone. That's why I created the AI SEO Foundations course, powered by Crystal GPT: your personal AI SEO coach designed for busy, creative business owners like you.Ditch the overwhelm and discover what SEO can do for your business! Head to SEOin7days.com (with the number 7!) and get started today—let's make your brand easy to find and impossible to ignore.Support the showWant to follow up on what you've heard? Search the podcast!Join the SEO SquadApply to be my podcast guest!

In this episode of the Simple and Smart SEO Show, host Crystal Waddell sits down with Ross Simmonds — founder of Foundation Marketing and distribution.ai, keynote speaker at Brighton SEO, and passionate content strategist. Ross shares how he started out online running a fantasy football blog and now advises global brands. His message: most creators need to stop obsessing over new content and start amplifying what they've already made. Learn his “garden analogy” for content promotion, the Four Es framework for creating engaging posts, and how to balance content marketing with SEO. Whether you're an entrepreneur, marketer, SEO or creator, this episode will shift your mindset from constant creation to strategic distribution.Key Takeaways:Why most brands underinvest in content distribution — and how to fix it.The “garden analogy” for nurturing content long after it's created.How to overcome the fear of over-promoting your content.The Four Es framework for engaging, educational, entertaining, and empowering content.Why SEO lives under the broader umbrella of content marketing.How to treat different content types like investment asset classes.Episode Highlights:"If you've given up your time to create something, that thing is now an asset — and assets deserve distribution." – Ross Simmonds"I've never seen someone share too much good content." – Ross SimmondsListener Action Items:Audit your existing content and identify pieces worth re-promoting.Shift your time ratio from 90% creation / 10% promotion to a healthier balance.Apply the Four Es to your content strategy this month.Experiment with DM-based calls-to-action instead of “link in bio” prompts.Connect With Ross:LinkedinBuy His Book: Create Once. Distribute Forever.Send me a text!Does SEO feel confusing, overwhelming, or just plain impossible to figure out? You're not alone. That's why I created the AI SEO Foundations course, powered by Crystal GPT: your personal AI SEO coach designed for busy, creative business owners like you.Ditch the overwhelm and discover what SEO can do for your business! Head to SEOin7days.com (with the number 7!) and get started today—let's make your brand easy to find and impossible to ignore.Support the showWant to follow up on what you've heard? Search the podcast!Join the SEO SquadApply to be my podcast guest!

In this final installment of the Shopify Series: From Strategy to Action, Crystal Waddell takes you inside one of her favorite tools—Surfer SEO—and shows you exactly how to use it to optimize your Shopify store pages for maximum visibility. From product descriptions to collection pages, homepage copy, and blog posts, you'll learn step-by-step strategies to integrate Surfer SEO into your workflow. Crystal also shares pro tips, keyword research insights, and how to make your content Google-loved without guessing what works.Key Takeaways:Surfer SEO works beyond blog posts — it's powerful for product pages, collection pages, and even your homepage or about page.Collection pages can benefit from short but keyword-rich descriptions — as little as 50–100 words can make a difference.Surfer's real-time content score acts like a coach, showing you exactly how to optimize as you write.Keyword research is essential before diving into content optimization.Small businesses can compete with big brands using Surfer SEO's structured guidance.Episode Highlights:"Surfer SEO is like having a coach in your corner while you write.""Even a short paragraph using three to four suggested keywords can boost your visibility.""Visibility is a skill—keep growing."Listener Action Items:Identify a Shopify page you want to optimize—product, collection, homepage, or about page.Use Surfer SEO's content editor to enter your target keyword and review competitor insights.Follow the keyword suggestions and structure prompts to raise your content score.Download Crystal's $7 Surfer SEO Workbook for Shopify for templates, prompts, and tracking tools (COMING SOON!)Consider joining the SEO Squad for ongoing weekly supporSend me a text!Does SEO feel confusing, overwhelming, or just plain impossible to figure out? You're not alone. That's why I created the AI SEO Foundations course, powered by Crystal GPT: your personal AI SEO coach designed for busy, creative business owners like you.Ditch the overwhelm and discover what SEO can do for your business! Head to SEOin7days.com (with the number 7!) and get started today—let's make your brand easy to find and impossible to ignore.Support the showWant to follow up on what you've heard? Search the podcast!Join the SEO SquadApply to be my podcast guest!

(Shopify From Strategy to Action Series, Episode 4!)In this episode, we're getting real about Shopify page templates — and why they might be quietly holding your SEO back.

Want more organic traffic and faster conversions on your Shopify store? In this episode of the Simple and Smart SEO Show, Crystal Waddell breaks down the visual side of SEO with a focus on image optimization.From renaming image files and writing strategic alt text to compressing files and picking the best formats, Crystal walks you through four essential steps to get your images SEO-ready. You'll also learn how to use ChatGPT to quickly generate descriptive alt text and how to leverage Pinterest to amplify your visual content strategy.✅ What You'll Learn:Why image SEO drives traffic from Google and PinterestHow to rename image files using SEO-friendly keywordsThe dos and don'ts of writing alt text (and how ChatGPT helps)Image compression tools that boost load speed (TinyPNG & WebP)Best image formats for product photos, logos, and backgroundsBonus: Pinterest optimization tips and helpful Shopify apps

In this episode, Crystal breaks down the must-have SEO tech stack for Shopify sellers who want to show up in search results, build authority, and grow sustainably without feeling overwhelmed.You'll learn about the core apps that make SEO easier, free tools to track and audit your progress, and optional power tools if you're ready to take things to the next level.Whether you're just getting started with Shopify or looking to improve your existing SEO strategy, this episode will help you focus on the right tools so you can stop guessing and start growing.Key TakeawaysYou don't need 50 tools — just a few key apps and resources to support your SEO efforts.Start with free tools like Google Search Console and Microsoft Clarity to understand your current performance.Add must-have apps that create fresh content and improve site speed, like a review app and TinyPNG.Explore advanced tools like Ahrefs, Ubersuggest, and Surfer SEO as you grow.Resources & MentionsShopify SEO Tech Stack Checklist (only $7!) COMING SOON!7-Step SEO Starter CourseGoogle Search ConsoleMicrosoft ClarityInstaIndexTinyPNGSurfer SEO (My Affiliate Link!)Action Steps for ListenersInstall at least one new SEO tool today (Google Search Console is a great place to start).Download the Shopify SEO Tech Stack Checklist to make setup easy and track what you've implemented.Tag Crystal on Instagram @simpleandsmartseo2 to share your progress.Connect with CrystalWebsite: simpleandsmartseo.comInstagram: @simpleandsmartseo2Podcast on Apple: Listen herePodcast on Spotify: Listen hereNext Episode: Don't miss the next episode, where we'll talk about optimizing your images so they bring in traffic — not just likes!Send me a text!Does SEO feel confusing, overwhelming, or just plain impossible to figure out? You're not alone. That's why I created the AI SEO Foundations course, powered by Crystal GPT: your personal AI SEO coach designed for busy, creative business owners like you.Ditch the overwhelm and discover what SEO can do for your business! Head to SEOin7days.com (with the number 7!) and get started today—let's make your brand easy to find and impossible to ignore.Support the showWant to follow up on what you've heard? Search the podcast!Join the SEO SquadApply to be my podcast guest!

In this kickoff episode of my Shopify SEO from Strategy to Action summer series, we start with the most important piece: your mindset.If you've ever thought:"SEO is just for techies!""Shopify isn't good for SEO.""I don't even know where to start."This episode is for you!

Join PPC Pro Austin Becker and me in this episode of The Simple and Smart SEO Show.We're diving into strategic blogging, PPC attribution, and the underrated power of Pinterest — a must-listen for creative entrepreneurs, Shopify sellers, and busy business owners who want to grow without burnout.Here's what you'll learn:How to use Google's "People Also Ask" to create blog content that drives trafficWhen and how Pinterest ads actually work for e-commerceWhy attribution is murky — and how to trust your gut when running ads 0:00 – Intro 0:02 – How to use Google to find blog ideas that convert 1:10 – Linking blog posts back to products and monetizing content 2:00 – Pinterest: A goldmine for visual and evergreen traffic 3:20 – Are Pinterest ads worth it? Austin shares results 4:45 – Organic vs paid Pinterest: What drives more ROI 6:00 – Planning and buyer intent on Pinterest 7:00 – How to measure PPC success (or not) 8:00 – Realistic evaluation windows for ad performance 9:00 – Common PPC/SEO mistakes to avoid 10:15 – Who's a good fit for Becker Marketing's services 11:30 – Final thoughts

In this episode of The Simple and Smart SEO Show, we're diving into real-world e-commerce strategies to compete with platforms like Amazon, Walmart, and Etsy — without relying solely on Google. If you're a Shopify seller or creative entrepreneur, this episode is a must-listen for understanding ad budgets, search impression share, and seasonal sales cycles that actually scale your business sustainably.Here's what you'll learn:How to drive traffic without depending on Google (hint: email + social!)Why knowing your ACOS (Advertising Cost of Sale) is more useful than ROASThe smartest way to scale: sell more when people are already buying⏱️ Timestamps: 0:00 – Intro: The Google traffic trap 1:16 – Competing with Amazon (without losing your mind or margins) 3:20 – What is Search Impression Share & where to find it 4:33 – Profit-first ad budgeting: ACOS vs ROAS explained 10:31 – The truth about your prices (and why doubling them may save your business) 13:06 – 2025+ trends: Multi-channel selling & YouTube SEO tips 17:37 – Video SEO strategy for higher CTR 18:31 – Collection page tips from Bonobos

In this episode of the Simple and Smart SEO Show, Crystal Waddell sits down with e-commerce marketing expert Austin Becker (Part 1 of 3).We talk about the evolution of Austin's career, from selling quirky side-hustle products to founding a thriving e-commerce digital marketing agency. You'll learn actionable insights on Google Shopping, product feed optimization, Amazon's advertising dominance, the power of Schema for Shopify SEO, and how AI is poised to reshape search and advertising. If you're an online seller or digital marketer, this episode is packed with tips and tools to upgrade your strategies for 2025 and beyond.Key Takeaways:

In part 3 of my interview with Andrew Ansley, we unpack the evolution of SEO from pre-2022 tactics to today's entity-driven, user-focused strategies. Learn why stuffing keywords is dead, how RankBrain and BERT changed the game, and why helpful, structured content (plus user metrics) is the new key to ranking. Andrew also demystifies topical authority, shares how to recover if your site's in the “loser's bracket,” and offers actionable tips for entrepreneurs and small business owners who want to win with SEO—without burnout.Here's what you'll learn:How Google's approach to content and ranking has changed since 2018 (and again after 2022)What “entity SEO” and “topical authority” mean for your websiteWhy user satisfaction and mobile-first indexing matter more than everHow to structure content for both users and bots (headers, visuals, and more)What it takes to move your site from the “loser's bracket” to the winner's bracket

In this episode of The Simple and Smart SEO Show, Crystal Waddell sits down with AI and SEO expert Andrew Ansley to discuss the intersection of artificial intelligence, SEO strategies, entrepreneurship, and modern parenting. Here's what you'll learn:How to leverage AI tools (like ChatGPT and Claude) to organize your business and creative projects.The critical skills kids need for the future—and how parents and educators can support them using AI.Why traditional education is broken and how AI can help every child learn in a personalized way.

In this conversation on AI-powered SEO workflows, Andrew Ansley joins The Simple and Smart SEO Show to share how smart marketers are using tools like Claude, ChatGPT, and automation platforms to save time and scale without hiring.From building SOPs in under an hour to organizing AI projects for sharper output, Andrew reveals how today's marketers can combine soft skills with machine intelligence to stay competitive—without burning out.Whether you're a creative entrepreneur, solo founder, or agency owner, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help you systemize your business and let AI do the heavy lifting.

In Part 2 of our conversation about Local SEO, Darren Shaw of Whitespark returns to The Simple and Smart SEO Show to break down advanced Google Business Profile (GBP) strategies that actually move the needle. From the controversial truth about citation consistency to actionable tactics for leveraging Google reviews and optimizing your GBP for maximum visibility, Darren shares insider tips you won't find in a typical SEO blog post. Whether you're a service provider, e-commerce seller, or local business, this episode is packed with high-impact, no-fluff advice to help you dominate local search results—ethically and effectively.

In this value-packed episode of the Simple and Smart SEO Show, host

In this week's episode of the Simple and Smart SEO Show, Crystal Waddell sits down with Shreya LaCock from SEO for Hire to pull back the curtain on SEO careers, personal branding, and the future of hiring in a world powered by AI!

Shreya LaCock, marketing specialist at SEO For Hire, shares the inside world of SEO recruitment and agency hiring. From spotting green flags in potential SEO agencies to navigating gender gaps in job applications, Shreya brings both personal experience and professional wisdom. You'll also hear what makes an onboarding process successful, the overlooked “honeymoon phase” of hiring, and how to make sure you're building the right team for long-term growth.Whether you're an SEO agency, a business owner looking to hire, or a curious marketer wondering what it takes to break into the SEO world—this episode is packed with gems you don't want to miss.

In this can't-miss episode of the Simple and Smart SEO Show, Crystal Waddell reconnects with digital strategist and SEO pro Favour Obasi-ike. Whether you're podcasting on Wix, exploring RSS feeds, or wondering how to rank better using voice search, this episode is full of insights you can apply today to stay ahead tomorrow.

This episode is a full-circle moment! Crystal reconnects with the person who first planted the seed that SEO could actually drive traffic—without the middleman of social media. Meet Favour Obasi-ike: a podcasting pioneer, SEO strategist, and founder of We Don't Play Podcast. Together, Crystal and Favour take a nostalgic ride through their Clubhouse days, unpack the magic of Pinterest SEO, explore the future of RSS feeds, and share why your website needs a sitemap. Like, yesterday!Whether you're a seasoned business owner or just now dipping your toe into SEO, this episode is packed with heart, tech, and next-level brand-building tips.

In this insightful and refreshingly practical episode of the Simple and Smart SEO Show, Crystal sits down with Alyssa Corso—SEO strategist and healthcare content pro—to talk all things content refresh. Alyssa breaks down her favorite ways to optimize existing content without burning it all down.Whether you're running a blog in a Your Money or Your Life (YMYL) niche or just wondering if updating the year in your title is enough (spoiler alert: it's not

In this episode of the Simple and Smart SEO Show, Crystal Waddell chats with SEO consultant and BrightonSEO speaker Alyssa Corso about a topic every content creator should understand—SEO content decay. Alyssa shares how content naturally loses visibility over time and outlines a strategic process for updating content to improve performance and generate real business results.From identifying "money keywords" to understanding the phases of content decay, this episode is packed with insights on how to make your existing content work harder for your business. Whether you're a startup with limited resources or a seasoned marketer, Alyssa's practical strategies will help you tie your content efforts to revenue—and avoid wasting valuable time.

In this jam-packed Part 2 episode, I continue my insightful chat with David Green, founder of Devslove.com. We dive deep into Google Ads, strategic ad spend, and the realities of running paid campaigns for small businesses. David shares expert insights on choosing the right platform, retargeting strategies, and why SEO and AI-driven search are shaping the future of digital marketing. Plus, we discuss pricing, profitability, and setting the right goals to make digital marketing actually work for your business. If you're an entrepreneur looking for a clear strategy to maximize your online presence, this is an episode you don't want to miss!

In this episode of The Simple and Smart SEO Show, I'm sitting down with David Green, founder of Devs Love, to talk about the major shifts happening in digital marketing! Fresh after BrightonSEO, David shared insights from his strategic planning retreat, where AI disruption was front and center. We discuss how AI levels the playing field for small agencies, the shift in Google Search, and why omni-channel marketing is no longer optional. What You'll Learn in This Episode:

Welcome back to another Follow Through Friday on the Simple and Smart SEO Show!

In this special solo episode of The Simple and Smart SEO Show, host Crystal Waddell reflects on her conversation with branding expert Mordy Oberstein. She shares key insights on defining your brand identity, optimizing SEO for conversions, and making smart business decisions that foster growth. Crystal also provides real-world examples of how she applied these lessons to her e-commerce business, proving that when branding and SEO work together, magic happens. If you've ever struggled with niching down, pricing your products right, or making your website more engaging, this episode is packed with actionable tips!Key Takeaways:✅ Know Your Brand Identity – If you're not something, you're nothing. Be clear about who you serve and who you don't. ✅ Focus on Niche Markets – Trying to sell to everyone leads to confusion. Pick a market and dominate it. ✅ Pricing for Profit – Charging too little means working for free. Stand firm on prices that sustain your business. ✅ SEO + Branding = Conversions – Ranking high isn't enough; you must connect emotionally to turn visitors into buyers. ✅ Smart Business Growth – Expanding isn't about offering more—it's about offering better and creating repeat customers.Memorable Quotes:

In this guest-hosted episode of The Simple and Smart SEO Show, Celeste Gonzales (Director of Roo Labs at Rickety Roo) and Melissa Popp (Content Strategy Director at Rickety Roo) dive deep into local SEO strategies. They explore the power of problem-solving content for small businesses and how local companies can stand out against larger competitors. The discussion covers how to identify local pain points, create community-driven content, and balance SEO with engagement-focused strategies.Key Takeaways:✅ Problem-solving content builds trust: Addressing real-life local issues makes your brand more credible and relevant to your community.✅ Go beyond keyword research: Your own team, customer inquiries, and community forums are valuable content sources.✅ Multi-location businesses must localize content: Even national brands need to engage with community-specific challenges.✅ Community engagement fosters long-term brand awareness: Covering local issues—even those indirectly related to your business—helps position you as a trusted resource.✅ Diversify beyond SEO: Businesses that rely solely on organic traffic risk losing visibility. Multi-channel marketing is essential.Episode Highlights & Memorable Quotes:

In this episode of The Simple and Smart SEO Show, host Crystal Waddell sits down with Katie Stone, SEO Lead at LeadHub, to discuss local SEO strategies, keyword research, and essential SEO tools. Katie shares her insights from Brighton SEO, her journey in the industry, and practical tips for leveraging Google Search Console, Screaming Frog, and keyword gap analysis to gain a competitive edge.Key Takeaways:Google Search Console can be a free and powerful tool for uncovering content ideas and improving topical authority.Hyperlocal SEO is critical for small businesses, focusing on local pain points and industry-specific challenges.Keyword gap analysis helps identify content opportunities and outrank competitors.Competitor research is key—using tools like SEMrush, Ahrefs, and DragonMetrics to analyze backlinks and search visibility.SEO tools with AI integrations need improvement, but Screaming Frog's AI and Lighthouse integrations offer actionable insights.Zero-click searches are reshaping SEO metrics—impressions and visibility will play a bigger role in future rankings.Memorable Quotes:

In this episode of Simple and Smart SEO, Crystal Waddell sits down with the one and only Mordy Oberstein—Head of Brand at Wix, founder of Unify Brand Marketing, and self-proclaimed SEO contrarian (with a soft spot for brutal honesty). If you think SEO is just about keywords and backlinks, Mordy is here to obliterate that notion faster than an algorithm update can tank your rankings.They dive into how businesses should stop trying to be everything (because newsflash: that means you're nothing), and why SEOs should stop acting like lone wolves and start sitting with the comms team.

In this Follow Through Friday episode of the Simple and Smart SEO Show, Crystal Waddell reflects on her marketing strategies and shares three key action items to optimize marketing efforts without extra workload. She dives into integrating marketing channels, dedicating time for learning, and repurposing content efficiently. If you're looking for smart ways to strengthen your marketing strategy, this episode is packed with practical tips!Key Takeaways:Integrate Your Marketing Channels – Ensure social media, blog posts, and email marketing work together to guide potential customers toward conversions.Dedicate Weekly Learning Time – Stay updated with SEO and marketing trends by setting aside time to learn new strategies.Repurpose Content Effectively – Transform high-performing content into new formats for different platforms to maximize reach and save time.Episode Highlights:

In this episode of the Simple and Smart SEO Show, I sit down with marketing strategist and agency owner Raycheal Proctor from Unlimited Mixed Marketing. We chat the transformative power of omni-channel marketing, discussing how different channels can work cohesively to elevate visibility and results. Raycheal shares her journey from classical musician to marketing maven and offers invaluable advice on leveraging SEO, paid media, and account-based marketing to create efficient, holistic strategies. Packed with real-life case studies and actionable tips, this episode is perfect for entrepreneurs and marketers looking to optimize their brand's presence across platforms.Key Takeaways:The Power of Omni-Channel Marketing: Combining SEO with paid media and other channels leads to better results and long-term efficiency.Targeted Approach Over Silos: A hyper-targeted, account-based strategy can eliminate digital noise and deliver measurable success.Repurposing Content: Maximize content value by breaking it into smaller formats for blogs, emails, and more.Continuous Learning and Adaptation: Stay updated with marketing trends and maintain flexibility to pivot strategies as needed.Personalized Branding: Passive branding, like wearing branded apparel during webinars, can be a natural and effective marketing tool.Memorable Quotes:Raycheal Proctor: "The long-term gains from SEO should directly complement the short-term gains from paid media."Crystal Waddell: "You gave us permission to define who we work with and create mutually beneficial relationships."Raycheal Proctor: "Doing what you love in a way that brings joy and profit is always a win."Listener Action Items:Explore how your current marketing channels can complement each other. Start small with two to three channels and grow over time.Dedicate time each week for intentional learning—review updates, refine strategies, and enhance your skills.Identify opportunities for repurposing your existing content across multiple platforms.Define your ideal clients and refine your marketing approach to align with their needs.Reach out to Raycheal Proctor at Unlimited Mixed Marketing for a personalized consultation.Contact Raycheal:Website: UnlimitedMixedMarketing.comLinkedIn: Raycheal ProctorSend me a text!Support the showWant to follow up on what you've heard? Search the podcast!Join the SEO SquadApply to be my podcast guest!

In part two of these special guest-hosted episodes of The Simple and Smart SEO Show, Sara Jensen and Shea Karssing explore how AI is reshaping SEO, the importance of human creativity in marketing, and the long-term value of offline brand-building. Dive into practical tips for 2025, such as creating quality content, embracing conversational tones, and leveraging AI as a tool, not a replacement. Learn how brand awareness impacts SEO and why genuine human connection still reigns supreme in the digital world.

In this episode of the Simple and Smart SEO Show, host Crystal Waddell dives into breaking news about the TikTok ban in the U.S. and its implications for businesses reliant on the platform. Crystal emphasizes the importance of diversifying business strategies, leveraging AI tools to enhance creativity, and staying authentic in branding efforts. Along the way, she shares personal insights on overcoming technical challenges, adapting visibility plans, and balancing family life with professional goals. Tune in to discover actionable strategies for thriving amidst change and controversy.Key Takeaways:Adapt and Diversify Your Strategy: Relying solely on one platform, like TikTok, can leave businesses vulnerable. Spread risk across multiple online and offline channels to build resilience.AI as a Creative Partner: Tools like ChatGPT and Surfer can help structure and amplify your content while allowing space for your unique voice and expertise.Authenticity Matters: Sharing your challenges and failures authentically—especially on platforms like LinkedIn—can foster trust and boost visibility.Plan for the Future: Use current disruptions as an opportunity to reassess your strategies and align them with long-term goals.Stay Grounded: Prioritize what matters most, whether it's family or personal values, while maintaining momentum in your business.Episode Highlights:Breaking News: Crystal shares her experience with the TikTok ban and invites listeners to weigh in on its global perception.Business Lessons: Insights into diversifying your business beyond social media and building a consistent, omnichannel presence.AI Integration: Practical tips on using AI for blogging, social media strategy, and expanding creative potential.Overcoming Challenges: Crystal recounts resolving technical SEO issues and embracing growth through problem-solving.Personal Reflection: A heartwarming story about balancing business success with caring for her son during a challenging week.Memorable Quotes:“You cannot build your business on someone else's land.”“Sometimes, you don't have to be in go mode to be in grow mode.”“Focus on authenticity to differentiate your brand and build trust.”Listener Action Items:Reflect and Adapt: Evaluate how diversified your business strategy is and identify areas to reduce reliance on single platforms.Leverage AI Tools: Experiment with tools like ChatGPT for brainstorming and content planning while infusing your unique voice.Share Your Story: Post on social media about your challenges or lessons learned to boost visibility and engagement.Join the SEO Squad: Sign up for Crystal's SEO squad for ongoing support and resources to grow your businSend me a text!Support the showWant to follow up on what you've heard? Search the podcast!Join the SEO SquadApply to be my podcast guest!

In this exciting first-ever guest-hosted episode of the Simple and Smart SEO Show, Sara Jensen and Shea Karssing from Brighter Messaging step in to share their expertise. They discuss two pressing topics in the world of SEO and digital marketing: why relying solely on AI for content creation is risky and what their predictions are for visibility in 2025. Sara and Shea explore the nuances of maintaining a human touch in marketing, the limitations of AI tools, and strategies for creating meaningful, effective content. Tune in to discover actionable tips and the latest insights for SEO and digital marketing in 2025.Key Takeaways:AI as a Tool, Not a Creator: AI can assist with brainstorming and summarization but cannot replace the creativity and personal touch required for content creation.The Risks of AI Dependence: Over-relying on AI for marketing can lead to generic, duplicated, and sometimes inaccurate content, harming your brand's trust and SEO rankings.The Value of Human Connection: Authentic human interaction and unique perspectives build trust and differentiate your brand in an increasingly AI-dominated space.Future of Visibility in 2025: Personalization, authenticity, and professional expertise will remain critical for standing out in a competitive digital environment.Memorable Quotes:"Trust is built human to human. You can't replace that with AI." – Shea Karssing"If your graphics look like everybody else's, they're not going to stop the scroll." – Sara Jensen"AI helps with the grunt work but can't replace your creative process." – Sara JensenListener Action Items:Evaluate Your AI Use: Assess how you're using AI in your marketing. Focus on tools that complement your creative efforts rather than replace them.Invest in Human Creativity: Prioritize hiring professionals for critical content like website copy and brand design.Focus on Authenticity: Share your unique story and value proposition to stand out from AI-generated content.Plan for 2025: Develop a visibility strategy emphasizing human connection, tailored messaging, and high-quality, original content.Links Mentioned in Episode:Connect with Shea Karssing on LinkedInConnect with Sara Jensen on LinkedInLearn more about Brighter Messaging Send me a text!Support the showWant to follow up on what you've heard? Search the podcast!Join the SEO SquadApply to be my podcast guest!

In this episode of the Simple and Smart SEO Show, host Crystal Waddell walks listeners through practical steps for optimizing their business. Drawing inspiration from RJ Licata's insights on marketing strategy and ruthless prioritization, Crystal shares actionable advice on evaluating your marketing plan, focusing on impactful priorities, building strong networks, and auditing your digital footprint. Tune in to learn how small, intentional actions today can lead to big results tomorrow.Key Takeaways:Evaluate Your Marketing Strategy: Align your efforts with your business goals instead of being distracted by trendy tactics.Ruthless Prioritization: Focus on what truly moves the needle and organize your projects effectively.Expand Your Network: Strengthen relationships and explore new opportunities by joining local groups or reconnecting with old contacts.Audit Your Digital Footprint: Ensure your business presence is optimized across key platforms with an omni-channel approach.Memorable Quotes:"Set the goals and parameters of your business before you get started. Don't let your business happen to you—happen to your business!""Small actions today lead to big results tomorrow."Listener Action Items:Focus on ruthless prioritization by outlining your most impactful goals.Reach out to someone in your network this week to strengthen your connections.Join the SEO Squad!Call-to-Action:Ready to take your strategy to the next level? DM Crystal on Instagram @SimpleandSmartSEO or connect on LinkedIn. Don't forget to subscribe to the Simple and Smart SEO Show podcast for more tips to optimize your business!Send me a text!Support the showWant to follow up on what you've heard? Search the podcast!Join the SEO SquadApply to be my podcast guest!

In this episode of the Simple and Smart SEO Show, host Crystal Waddell chats with marketing consultant RJ Licata, founder of Me First Marketing. RJ shares his journey from corporate marketing roles to entrepreneurship, diving deep into the importance of prioritization, strategy, and betting on yourself in today's fast-paced business environment. Whether you're navigating the world of SEO, building a brand, or just trying to focus your resources as a small business owner, this conversation is packed with actionable insights to elevate your marketing game.Key Takeaways:Strategy Over Tactics: Understand the "why" behind your marketing campaigns to ensure all efforts align with business objectives.Ruthless Prioritization: Focus on the most impactful projects and eliminate distractions, even if it means "killing your darlings."Betting on Yourself: Building confidence and leveraging personal strengths is essential for long-term success.Building Owned Assets: Ensure your business has a strong foundation of owned channels like websites and email lists to withstand platform changes.Offline Presence Matters: Tailor in-person engagement to your business goals, from networking to local events.Memorable Quotes:RJ Licata: "The real challenge for small business owners is not in executing a campaign; it's knowing which campaigns not to execute."Crystal Waddell: "SEO is about taking up as many places on the search engine results page as possible—dominate your digital footprint."RJ Licata: "Your marketing should be asset-driven and channel-agnostic."Listener Action Items:Evaluate Your Marketing Strategy: Identify whether your current efforts are aligned with your business objectives or if you're stuck in a cycle of tactics.Practice Ruthless Prioritization: List your ongoing projects and campaigns; determine which ones bring the most value and cut the rest.Expand Your Network: Reconnect with dormant professional contacts or join a local business group to enhance visibility and support.Audit Your Digital Footprint: Ensure your brand is visible across multiple channels and claim your name on emerging platforms.Contact RJ for Strategy Support: Visit MeFirst.Marketing or connect with RJ on LinkedIn for personalized guidance.Send me a text!Support the showWant to follow up on what you've heard? Search the podcast!Join the SEO SquadApply to be my podcast guest!

In this Follow Through Friday episode, Crystal Waddell (that's me!) revisits her discussion with Holly Homer and walks listeners through her process of improving a dedicated page on her e-commerce website for senior athlete posters. She shares practical tips on reusing content, internal linking, and leveraging quick SEO wins to create a user-friendly page while managing time constraints. Crystal demonstrates how small, actionable steps can bring big results for your website's SEO strategy.Key Takeaways:Content Optimization Matters: You can elevate existing content by repurposing images, videos, and text into structured assets.Quick SEO Wins: Highlighting existing customer examples, creating collages, and adding clear CTAs can enhance pages quickly without heavy lifting.The Power of Internal Linking: Linking to specific pages (like “softball posters”) improves navigation and boosts SEO.Reuse and Repurpose: Use tools like Canva for creating visual collages and videos to showcase your product offerings.Give Your Pages a Job: Define the role of every page, button, and piece of content to guide user journeys effectively.Episode Highlights:“Give every page a job: What's the customer's job? What's the page's job? What's the button's job?”“I love playing around with ChatGPT—it helps me optimize content with a simple checklist and actionable ideas.”“Low effort, high impact content ideas are ideal when you're time-poor.”Listener Action Items:Audit Your Website Pages: Identify content that can be optimized or repurposed for better SEO results.Create Quick SEO Wins: Highlight existing examples, add strong CTAs, and make small internal link updates to drive traffic.Brainstorm with AI Tools: Use ChatGPT or similar tools to generate actionable ideas when you're short on time.Repurpose Content: Combine existing visuals and videos into new assets using tools like Canva.Contact Crystal for SEO Help: Visit simpleandsmartseo.com for a strategy that aligns with your budget.If you're a small business looking to improve your SEO strategy on a budget, Crystal would love to help! Visit simpleandsmartseo.com to connect.Send me a text!Support the showWant to follow up on what you've heard? Search the podcast!Join the SEO SquadApply to be my podcast guest!