The Simple and Smart SEO Show

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!

I'm chatting chat with Stephanie Long, AKA "Mrs. SEO," about her groundbreaking new venture, Junction Jack, a vetted SEO marketplace. Stephanie shares her journey of creating a trusted space for businesses to connect with top-notch SEO experts. From addressing the frustrations of businesses burned by unqualified "experts" to her emotional story behind the name Junction Jack, this episode is packed with insights, advice, and inspiration. If you're curious about the future of SEO, voice search, and how empathy-driven practices can reshape the digital landscape, tune in!Key Takeaways:The Problem with Existing SEO Options:Many SEO "experts" on platforms like Fiverr and Upwork lack the vetting needed for consistent, quality results.Stephanie's marketplace ensures only experienced, honest, and reliable professionals make the cut.Voice Search is the Future:With AI and machine learning on the rise, optimizing for voice search (and natural language processing) is more critical than ever.Businesses should adapt content to match conversational, voice-driven queries.Community is Key:Building Junction Jack took resilience, networking, and leaning on supportive groups—proving that no entrepreneur succeeds alone.Trust the Process:The road to building something worthwhile is never easy, but authenticity and persistence pay off.Memorable Quotes:“Junction Jack is like Nobu to McDonald's. If you want high-end SEO service, you come to me!” – Stephanie Long“There's no silver bullet in business. You have to go through it, fail, and learn to succeed.” – Crystal Waddell“Voice search is the new frontier—your Alexa or Siri is about to be your website's best friend.” – Stephanie LongListener Action Items:Check Out Junction Jack: Visit junctionjack.co to learn more and sign up for updates.Prep for Voice Search: Start optimizing your website's content for natural, conversational queries.Follow Stephanie: Connect with her on LinkedIn or email her at stephanie@mrsseo.co to stay updated.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, I reflect on my incredible experience at BrightonSEO 2024 in San Diego. From a first-class upgrade to exciting networking events, unique industry insights, and fun-filled conference highlights, this trip was unforgettable. I share tips for making the most of events like BrightonSEO, why networking can redefine your perspective, and the importance of stepping out of your comfort zone. Whether you're an SEO pro or just curious about what makes conferences like this so special, I hope this episode will leave you inspired and ready for your next big opportunity.Key Takeaways:Networking Pays Off: Events like BrightonSEO offer opportunities to meet industry leaders, forge new connections, and gain valuable insights.Conference Hacks: Joining hotel rewards programs can save time and elevate your travel experience—literally!Be Inspired: The optimism and future-focused ideas from BrightonSEO's speakers are a reminder to embrace change in SEO and digital marketing.Prepare Strategically: Taking time to plan ahead—whether it's creating a strategy day or exploring conference apps—can help you maximize value.First-Class Experiences: Sometimes, a little luxury (like an upgraded flight) makes the journey as memorable as the destination.Memorable Quotes:“If it's valuable to you to be inspired and be around like-minded individuals who are excited about what excites you, BrightonSEO is absolutely worth it.”“I got clarity for 2025. I was already excited, but now I'm excited on purpose!”Listener Action Items:Explore Conferences: Consider attending BrightonSEO or a similar event to level up your knowledge and networking game.Strategize Your Takeaways: After attending a conference, spend a day reflecting and creating actionable strategies for the future.Connect on LinkedIn: Reach out to me to chat about your BrightonSEO experience or ask questions about attending next year.Plan Smart: Join rewards programs and look for auxiliary events like netwalking tours to enhance your next conference experience.p.s. I am not affiliated with BrightonSEO in any way, just a big fan of their conference!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, I (Crystal Waddell) reveal the must-have tools that fuel my entrepreneurial journey and business success. Add these to your Black Friday 2024 deals list!This episode contains affiliate links, which means I could receive payment if you make a purchase after clicking on one of the links. Not all links are affiliate links and these are all products I use and fully recommend! From client management tools like HoneyBook to SEO powerhouses such as Surfer SEO and Dragon Metrics, I walk you through the essential software that streamlines my workflow and fuels my business growth. With insights on AI, website platforms, social media scheduling, and more, this episode is packed with practical tips and exclusive Black Friday deals to elevate your entrepreneurial journey. Don't miss my candid recommendations and reflections as I preps for a fresh focus in 2025!Also - can't believe I left Buzzsprout out of my tech stack but they are great for podcast hosting!Key Takeaways:Streamline Business Management: Tools like HoneyBook ensure your client communications and contracts stay organized and professional.Boost SEO Performance: Leverage SurferSEO and Dragon Metrics (Use code WADDELL for 5% off!) for advanced content optimization.Enhance Creativity with AI: ChatGPT supports brainstorming and content creation for efficiency and inspiration.Build Impactful Websites: Platforms like Shopify and Wix cater to eCommerce and customized designs for any business need.Optimize Communication & Podcasting: Tools like Google Meet and Squadcast.fm ensure smooth virtual collaboration and high-quality recordings.Simplify Editing & Marketing: Descript, Metricool, TubeBuddy, and Tailwind streamline content creation, scheduling, and audience engagement.Automate Email Marketing: Klaviyo helps segment your audience and create tailored campaigns with robust analytics.Memorable Quotes:"The right tools aren't just a convenience—they're the backbone of a successful business.""Automation and efficiency give you the time and space to focus on what truly matters—growth and creativity."Listener Action Items:Explore the tools mentioned in this episode and consider which ones fit your business needs.Take advantage of exclusive offers, like SurferSEO's Black Friday deal or Tailwind's Ghostwriter credits, to save while leveling up your strategy.Share this episode with a fellow entrepreneurSend 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!

Lydia Bagarozza and Bridget Sicsko, co-founders of Visibility on Purpose join me to explore the synergy between PR and SEO, sharing actionable tips for small business owners to enhance visibility and credibility. From pitching to publications to leveraging backlinks, learn how these strategies can drive traffic, build authority, and create lasting impact. Perfect for entrepreneurs ready to step into the spotlight!Key Takeaways:PR & SEO Synergy: PR features not only enhance credibility but also boost SEO through high-quality backlinks from reputable publications.Pitching Best Practices: Craft tailored, mindful pitches to grab the attention of writers and editors. Trending topics and unique angles can increase your chances of being featured.Affiliate Marketing Insights: Many online gift guides and articles are affiliate-driven. Understand how to leverage this model to get featured.The Long Game of Visibility: Both PR and SEO are long-term strategies that compound over time, building authority and trust for your brand.PR Tools & Ecosystem: Writers need sources for their articles—position yourself as a go-to expert or brand to support their work.Memorable Quotes:“Your work is the answer to someone's prayer.” – Briget Sicsko“PR is about borrowing someone else's audience.” – Lydia Bagarozza“Helpful content builds trust and drives decisions.” – Crystal WaddellListener Action Items:Dedicate 1-2 hours a week to work on your PR strategy, such as pitching to publications or podcasts.Research affiliate models and consider platforms like ShareASale or Skimlinks to support your product visibility.Use tools like Ahrefs to track backlinks and understand the impact of your media features.Identify your business goals and align your PR and SEO strategies to support them.Join PR-focused communities or challenges to refine your pitching skills and gain accountability.Send me a text! Hey, football fans! Score big this fall with Senior Night Gifts from LoveYourSenior.com. These treasures are just what you need to make your memories last a lifetime. But hurry, these limited edition pieces are as fleeting as those Friday night lights Visit loveyoursenior.com and grab yours before the final whistle blows.That's loveyoursenior.com.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, I (Crystal Waddell) sit down with personal brand strategist Dianne Wilson to talk about all things branding, storytelling, and SEO. Key Takeaways:Authenticity Sells: Embracing your quirks, imperfections, and real stories resonates with audiences and helps create lasting connections.SEO Loves Stories: Integrating stories into your brand increases discoverability while naturally incorporating SEO-friendly keywords.Target Audience Awareness: Identifying and speaking directly to your ideal audience ensures you attract people who genuinely resonate with your message.Visibility Beyond the Screen: In-person experiences, like events or workshops, can deepen brand loyalty and expand visibility beyond digital platforms.Content Optimization 101: From headers to keywords, learn how to craft technically optimized content that feels true to you.Episode Highlights:"Authenticity isn't just showing your best self—it's sharing your vulnerabilities. That's what builds real connections.""You don't need to serve everyone; define who you want to reach and speak directly to them.""SEO and storytelling are like peanut butter and jelly—they're best together!"Listener Action Items:Take Stock of Your Story: Identify personal stories that shaped your perspective and find ways to integrate them into your brand.Embrace Vulnerability: Share something personal in your next post or email. Authenticity builds trust and fosters connection.Target Your Ideal Audience: Write down key traits of your ideal audience and use them to shape your content.Optimize Your Content: Use headers, keywords, and descriptive phrases to improve SEO while keeping it true to your voice.Explore Beehive for Newsletters: Consider Beehive's SEO-friendly platform to expand your newsletter's reach and visibility.Connect with Dianne:InstagramCrown to Empire Masterclass: Dianne's free live masterclass designed to help entrepreneurs build standout personal brands. Join to learn her framework for overcoming comparison and posting paralysis, and to create content that aligns with your values.Send me a text! Hey, football fans! Score big this fall with Senior Night Gifts from LoveYourSenior.com. These treasures are just what you need to make your memories last a lifetime. But hurry, these limited edition pieces are as fleeting as those Friday night lights Visit loveyoursenior.com and grab yours before the final whistle blows.That's loveyoursenior.com.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, I sis down with e-commerce SEO expert Freddie Chatt. Freddie shares valuable insights from his journey into SEO, emphasizing key strategies for e-commerce success, including optimizing collection pages, managing conversion rates, and strategic link building. Key TakeawaysCollection Pages Drive Commercial Traffic: Freddie explains that optimizing collection pages is crucial for e-commerce sites.Navigating Seasonality in E-Commerce: Freddie discusses how planning inventory and budgeting based on seasonality allows businesses to capitalize on peak sales periods effectively.Product-Led Link Building: Using gift guides and product-specific outreach as link-building strategies can secure high-quality backlinks from reputable publications.Optimizing Conversion Rates by Page Type: Freddie suggests tracking conversion rates for specific page types.Leveraging Keyword Clustering Tools for SEO: Freddie recommends tools like Keyword Insights to streamline keyword clustering.Listener Action ItemsEvaluate Collection Page SEO: If you run an e-commerce site, assess the SEO on your collection pages, making sure they include targeted keywords for your products.Use Keyword Clustering Tools: Try a keyword clustering tool like Keyword Insights to organize your keywords by intent, minimizing risk of keyword cannibalization.Plan Seasonally: For seasonal businesses, consider Freddie's approach of adjusting budgets, running sales, and optimizing site performance during off-peak times.Focus on Link Building Opportunities: Seek out niche-specific gift guides and reach out to the authors to feature your products, potentially boosting your site's domain authority.Guest and Resource LinksFreddie Chatt on LinkedIn: Freddie Chatt LinkedInFreddie's E-commerce SEO Boot Camp: Freddie's E-commerce CourseAhrefsKeywordSend me a text!Hey, football fans! Score big this fall with Senior Night Gifts from LoveYourSenior.com. These treasures are just what you need to make your memories last a lifetime. But hurry, these limited edition pieces are as fleeting as those Friday night lights Visit loveyoursenior.com and grab yours before the final whistle blows.That's loveyoursenior.com.Rumi.aiAll-in-one meeting tool with real-time transcription & searchable Meeting Memory™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 (that's me!) sits down with PPC strategist Charley Brennand to explore the role of storytelling and empathy in digital marketing. Charley shares her journey of overcoming underestimation and the valuable lessons she's learned about making paid advertising accessible, especially for those considered “underdogs.” Listen as Charley dives into how she approaches PPC with a balance of technical acumen and creativity, why storytelling can be a game-changer in client communication, and essential steps to ensure a website is ready for PPC investment. Key Takeaways:The Power of Storytelling in PPC: Charley emphasizes that storytelling in marketing, especially in technical fields like PPC, can make a significant difference in client communication and results.Recognizing and Overcoming Personal Limiting Beliefs: Charley discusses her own experiences of being underestimated and how she uses those lessons to inspire others to shoot for more in their careers and businesses.Fundamentals of PPC Success: A good website is essential for PPC success. Charley advises fixing issues like slow loading times and poor user experiences before investing in paid ads.Understanding Platform Audiences: Each social platform has unique user behaviors and buyer intent. Charley advises knowing these distinctions to maximize ad spend.Budgeting for Ads with Realistic Expectations: She shares a simple approach to calculating PPC budgets, factoring in search demand, cost-per-click, and average click-through rates.Episode Highlights:“Courage isn't the absence of fear; it's pursuing things despite being scared.”“If your website's not user-friendly, don't waste your money on paid ads—it's setting yourself up for failure.”Listener Action Items:Evaluate Your Website for PPC Readiness: Before launching a paid campaign, ensure your website offers a seamless user experience.Identify Your “Why” for Marketing: Clarify the purpose behind your campaigns—whether it's brand visibility, lead generation, or another goal.Explore Your Customer Journey: Map out the steps your customer typically takes before converting. Use this knowledge to create targeted content and ads across platforms.Connect with CharleSend me a text!Hey, football fans! Score big this fall with Senior Night Gifts from LoveYourSenior.com. These treasures are just what you need to make your memories last a lifetime. But hurry, these limited edition pieces are as fleeting as those Friday night lights Visit loveyoursenior.com and grab yours before the final whistle blows.That's loveyoursenior.com.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, Crystal Waddell is joined by Simon Lesser, co-founder and CEO of Dragon Metrics, a powerful all-in-one SEO software platform. Simon shares the journey behind Dragon Metrics, and explains how DM competes with larger tools like Ahrefs and SEMrush.Key Takeaways:Founding Story of Dragon Metrics: Simon Lesser "quit his way to the top" by pivoting from an SEO agency to creating a top-tier SEO tool.SEO Tool Competitiveness: Dragon Metrics competes with major players like SEMrush and Ahrefs by offering a product-focused, cost-effective solution with unparalleled customer support.Changes in SEO Industry: The past 18-24 months have been the most turbulent in SEO history, with shifts in algorithms, AI advancements, and economic factors impacting the industry.The Future of Search: AI is dramatically shaping the future of search and content creation, with new challenges and opportunities for SEO professionals.Actionable Advice for Small Businesses: Play to your strengths by doing what others can't. Focus on offering unique, non-scalable services to build your brand.Memorable Quotes:"I quit my way to the top. Every time I quit, the job kept getting better and better." - Simon Lesser"SEO tools are fully complementary to Google Search Console. They fill in the gaps, offering insights Google can't provide." - Simon Lesser"You can create the best product in the world, but if you don't tell people about it, you'll fail as a business." - Simon LesserListener Action Items:Explore Dragon Metrics: Sign up for a 30-day free trial of Dragon Metrics to see how it can help improve your SEO strategy.Take a Product Tour: Schedule a demo session to understand how Dragon Metrics can specifically cater to your business needs.Focus on What You Do Best: Identify services or features you can offer that larger competitors can't, and capitalize on those unique strengths.Connect with Simon Lesser:LinkedinDragon MetricsSend me a text!Hey, football fans! Score big this fall with Senior Night Gifts from LoveYourSenior.com. These treasures are just what you need to make your memories last a lifetime. But hurry, these limited edition pieces are as fleeting as those Friday night lights Visit loveyoursenior.com and grab yours before the final whistle blows.That's loveyoursenior.com.Support the showSearch the Simple and Smart SEO Show podcast FREE for something you heard!Join the SEO SquadApply to be my podcast guest!

In this episode, I (Crystal Waddell) get a chance to talk with analytics expert Dana DiTomaso to discuss Google Analytics 4 (GA4), its use cases and importance for small business owners.Key Takeaways:Set up GA4 immediately: The best time to set up analytics was yesterday, but it's not too late. Prioritize implementation and start gathering valuable data​.Execution over analysis paralysis: Don't get bogged down by overthinking your analytics strategy. Focus on taking action and refining it over time​.UTM Parameters are essential: Use UTM parameters in your URLs to track traffic sources accurately, especially for channels like Google Business Profiles​​.SEO is more accessible now: SEO has evolved from a niche technical field to a more content-driven, accessible discipline​.Memorable Quotes:"The best time to set up [GA4] was at the beginning, but the next best time is right now." — Dana DiTomaso​."SEO has become more grown-up and professional, and that's why it's drawing more women into the field." — Dana DiTomaso​.Listener Action Items:Set up GA4: If you haven't yet, get started with GA4 to track valuable user data and engagement.Add UTM Parameters: Make sure you're using UTM codes to track where your website visitors are coming from, especially from Google Business Profiles and social media​.Embrace execution: Don't overanalyze — make incremental improvements and learn from the results​.Connect with Dana:LinkedinGet the Kickpoint Playbook Use code "simpleandsmart" for 20% any courses!Send me a text!Hey, football fans! Score big this fall with Senior Night Gifts from LoveYourSenior.com. These treasures are just what you need to make your memories last a lifetime. But hurry, these limited edition pieces are as fleeting as those Friday night lights Visit loveyoursenior.com and grab yours before the final whistle blows.That's loveyoursenior.com.Support the showSearch the Simple and Smart SEO Show podcast FREE for something you heard!Join the SEO SquadApply to be my podcast guest!

I'm sharing a personal update, the importance of balancing life and work, and learning when to step back. Key Takeaways:Recognize your limits: It's important to identify when to step back and take time for personal matters.Future-proofing the podcast: To ensure the podcast continues, guest hosts may be invited to share their insights in future episodes.Resilience in challenges: Even with setbacks, it's essential to learn and grow from them, focusing on failing differently next time.Memorable Quotes:"As much as we want to come across like we have everything together, there are times we just can't show up as our best selves, and that's okay.""I've realized it's not about intentions, but actions that matter."Listener Action Items:Reflect on your own work-life balance and consider whether you need to step back in certain areas.If you're interested in being a guest host on the show, pitch your idea to me via LinkedIn or email at hello@simpleandsmartseo.com.Stay tuned for upcoming guest-hosted episodes for fresh insights on SEO and marketing strategies.Send me a text!Support the showSearch the Simple and Smart SEO Show podcast FREE for something you heard!Join the SEO SquadApply to be my podcast guest!

In this Follow Through Friday episode, I revisit episode 136 with SEO expert Edwin Romero. I review his approach to strategic SEO and his "guided selling" method, and apply his advice to optimizing collections, blogs, and deleting affiliate links. Additionally, I introduce the Brand Resume Visibility Audit, a resource to enhance your omnichannel presence.Key Takeaways:Guided Selling Approach: Actively guide customers through the buying journey by presenting curated options to simplify decisions.Optimizing Categories and Collections: Break down categories into digestible, smaller sections to make the customer experience more focused.Visibility Audit: The brand resume audit helps establish omnichannel optimization, critical for SEO in today's GPT-driven search environments.Updating Blogs and Links: Regularly reviewing and optimizing content, including affiliate links and image sizes, can greatly improve website performance.Omnichannel Optimization: Be present across platforms, consistently reinforcing your brand identity for improved visibility.Listener Action Items:Implement Guided Selling: Begin using the guided selling approach by presenting curated, clear choices to customers.Optimize Your Collections: Break down business offers into more specific, targeted categories.Visibility Audit: Conduct an omnichannel audit of your brand to ensure consistency across platforms.Test Website Redirects: Ensure smooth URL transitions using tools like Screaming Frog and optimize redirects for seamless user experiences.Send me a text!If you're looking for a unique, handcrafted way to spruce up your home or office, then Collage and Wood is the perfect place for you! We offer a range of beautiful wooden signs that are perfect for any occasion. Our talented team of artists will work with you to create a sign that perfectly suits your needs. So why wait? Visit Collage and Wood today!Support the showSearch the Simple and Smart SEO Show podcast FREE for something you heard!Join the SEO SquadApply to be my podcast guest!

In this episode of the Simple and Smart SEO Show, Crystal Waddell is joined by Amanda Jordan, Director of Digital Strategy at Rickety Roo, to dive deep into the world of local SEO. Whether you're a local business owner or part of a franchise, Amanda's insights will help you refine your SEO tactics and strategies for better visibility and results.Key Takeaways:Local SEO Is All-Encompassing: Local SEO isn't limited to Google Business Profiles or maps. It involves your entire website and how you rank in a specific geography.The Power of Internal Linking: Proper internal linking between service and location pages is one of the most effective ways to improve local rankings and increase traffic.Content Clustering for Local Search: Tailoring content to reflect local search behaviors is crucial for SEO success. Understand how people search in your city and focus on that.Combatting Duplicate Content in Local SEO: Customize location-specific pages by including unique aspects like user-generated content, reviews, and local awards to avoid content duplication.Non-Branded Traffic is Essential: Relying on branded traffic limits your reach. Developing non-branded content will help you attract more diverse visitors.Listener Action Items:Audit your current internal linking strategy to ensure your key service and location pages are well-connected.Develop location-specific service pages that speak directly to the needs and search habits of your audience.Explore content opportunities that reflect local search terms and behaviors in your market.Utilize tools like Google Trends to understand keyword trends in your region, helping you make data-driven SEO decisions.Send me a text!I've got thirty seconds to tell you about Wix Studio, the web platform for agencies and enterprises. Work in sync with your team on one canvasReuse templates, widgets and sections across sitesCreate a client kit for seamless handoversAnd leverage best-in-class SEO defaults across all your Wix sitesTime's up but the list keeps going. Step into Wix Studio to see more!Power in ChaosThe Power in Chaos podcast dives deep into personal stories of overcoming adversity,...Listen on: Apple Podcasts SpotifySupport the showSearch the Simple and Smart SEO Show podcast for something you heard! It's free!Apply to be my podcast guest!

We welcome entrepreneur Nathan Hirsch, founder of FreeUp and other ventures, to discuss the importance of standard operating procedures (SOPs), effective hiring practices, and leveraging SEO for business growth. Key Takeaways:SOPs are essential for scalability: Nathan emphasizes the importance of creating detailed SOPs for every part of the business and regularly updating them to maintain efficiency.Hiring the right people is critical: Nathan shares his strategy for hiring A-players and the importance of setting clear expectations and processes during onboarding.Market validation before investment: Before fully launching a business, ensure there is a market for it by testing ideas with potential clients and proving your ability to retain them.Balancing automation and human touch: Nathan explains how automation can help, but emphasizes the importance of keeping a personal touch in customer interactions, especially in SEO and customer service.Episode Highlights:“Prove that there's an actual market for it. Prove that you can get clients for it and prove that you can keep clients for it.”"We always want clients to feel like they're one step away from talking to me."Listener Action Items:Create or refine your SOPs: Start documenting your key business processes, and schedule quarterly reviews to ensure they stay updated.Review your hiring process: Focus on communication, attitude, and red flags during interviews to ensure you hire the right people for your team.Test your business ideas: Before investing significant time or money, run tests to ensure your product or service has a viable market.Optimize customer service: Balance automation with personal touches to ensure clients feel valued and heard.Resources & Links Mentioned:Free SOPs for SEO: TrioSEO.com/SOPEcomBalance (E-commerce bookkeeping): EcomBalance.comNathan Hirsch: Linked InSend me a text!How To Quit Your Job and Start A Business (Limited Series Podcast)How To Quit Your Job and Start A Business is a 20-episode limited podcast...Listen on: Apple Podcasts SpotifySupport the showSearch the Simple and Smart SEO Show podcast for something you heard! It's free!Apply to be my podcast guest!

Crystal shares insights from installing Clarity on her own websites, using its user experience data to improve customer journeys and increase conversions. This is the Follow Through Friday Episode For Episode 134 with Celeste Gonzalez.Key Takeaways:Microsoft Clarity Setup: Crystal installed Microsoft Clarity on both her Wix and Shopify websites, noting differences in ease of integration.Behavioral Insights: Clarity's screen recordings and heatmaps revealed user interactions, helping to optimize links and reduce customer frustration.Pop-up Optimization: Observations from Clarity data prompted Crystal to revise her pop-ups, aiming for a more user-friendly experience to prevent high bounce rates.Rage Clicks & Dead Clicks: Addressing rage clicks and dead clicks helped improve site navigation, enhancing user satisfaction and potential affiliate conversions.Weekly Reports: Regular reports from Clarity allowed Crystal to monitor ongoing site performance and adjust based on user behavior patterns.Listener Action Items:Install Microsoft Clarity on your website and begin analyzing user behavior through heatmaps and session recordings.Adjust your pop-ups based on user interaction data to improve engagement and reduce bounce rates.Monitor rage clicks and dead clicks, ensuring that clickable elements lead to relevant pages or actions.Send me a text!Support the showSearch the Simple and Smart SEO Show podcast for something you heard! It's free!Apply to be my podcast guest!

⚠️ SMART, advanced episode!

In this episode, I sit down with Nicholas Garfinkel to explore the future of SEO through the lens of predictive models and machine learning. Key Takeaways:The Importance of Data in SEO: Nicholas emphasizes the need for data-driven approaches in SEO, highlighting how relying on intuition alone isn't enough in today's rapidly changing environment.Predictive SEO Models: Nicholas introduces Kixley, the first predictive SEO tool that uses machine learning to forecast the impact of SEO strategies on rankings and traffic.SEO Strategy for Different Scales: The episode discusses how SEO strategies differ for small businesses compared to large enterprises, particularly in leveraging data and statistical models for decision-making.Local SEO Optimization: Practical tips on optimizing local SEO, including the importance of Google Business profiles, customer reviews, and addressing schema markup.Future of SEO: Insights into the future of SEO, where machine learning and predictive models will play a crucial role in optimizing and prioritizing SEO tasks.Listener Action Items:Optimize Local SEO: Update your Google Business profile, encourage customer reviews, and ensure your website includes your physical address to boost local SEO efforts.Incorporate Data-Driven SEO: Begin integrating more data and analytics into your SEO strategies to prioritize efforts that will have the most significant impact.Connect with Nicholas Garfinkel:KixelyLinkedinSend me a text!I've got thirty seconds to tell you about Wix Studio, the web platform for agencies and enterprises. Work in sync with your team on one canvasReuse templates, widgets and sections across sitesCreate a client kit for seamless handoversAnd leverage best-in-class SEO defaults across all your Wix sitesTime's up but the list keeps going. Step into Wix Studio to see more!Support the Show.Search the Simple and Smart SEO Show podcast for something you heard! It's free!Apply to be my podcast guest!

Episode Summary: In this episode, I sit down with Keshia Taylor to uncover how local SEO can drive business success without relying on social media. Key Takeaways:Introduction to Kechia Taylor:Kechia is a permanent makeup artist, educator, and franchisor with over 20 years in the beauty industry.She discusses her journey from being a brow expert to becoming a successful business owner and franchisor.Thriving Without Social Media:Kechia explains why she stepped away from social media and how local SEO has become her primary strategy for attracting clients.She emphasizes that local SEO can be more effective than social media for reaching targeted audiences.Local SEO Strategies:Kechia shares her tips for optimizing Google Business Profile, including the importance of consistent information and using geotagged photos.She highlights the power of platforms like Apple Maps and Yelp for local businesses.Leveraging Pinterest for Local Businesses:Kechia reveals how she uses Pinterest as a powerful tool for local SEO, creating boards that showcase her work and connect with local audiences.She explains how Pinterest's search ranking can outperform other social media platforms like Instagram, making it a valuable asset for brick-and-mortar businesses.Handling Negative Reviews and Building a Positive Online Presence:Kechia provides insights on responding to negative reviews.She advises on how to maintain a positive online reputation by actively managing and responding to reviews on platforms like Google.Connect with Kechia Taylor:Website: SEO For The Beauty ProLinkedInSend me a text!The Growth GearExplore business growth and success strategies with Tim Jordan on 'The Growth Gear.Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify The Feminine Advantage: An Empowering Series for Women ConsultantsSix must-listen episodes that tackle key challenges for women entrepreneurs.Listen on: Apple Podcasts SpotifySupport the Show.Search the Simple and Smart SEO Show podcast for something you heard! It's free!Apply to be my podcast guest!

Join me as I sit down with the brilliant Jamar Ramos, a seasoned expert in SEO and multi-channel marketing.Key Insights:The Role of SEO:Jamar emphasizes the importance of SEO but clarifies that it's just one piece of the puzzle. "SEO is just what you do on the technical side of the website. It has to be about multi-channel marketing," he states.Customer Satisfaction Over Domain Authority:One of the standout points Jamar makes is how customer happiness can drive success even if domain authority fluctuates. "The reason why you can see your revenue and traffic go up as your domain authority goes down is because customers are happy with you." Understanding Your Audience:Jamar urges marketers to always consider their audience. "Think about the people. Who is at the end of the telephone line of our marketing services? What do they need?" Iterative Product Development:Speed and adaptability are crucial in today's market. Jamar advises, "The biggest piece of advice I can say is: be ready to iterate on your product as quickly as possible. Get your product out there as soon as possible. Even if it's not perfect."Effective Communication, Transparency, and Honesty:Authenticity is key when reporting metrics. "We have to be careful how we talk about the numbers. And we have to be careful about how we report on the numbers and always tell the truth."Simplifying Complex Concepts:Jamar shares his expertise on making complicated ideas accessible. "The best way to be an expert at something is to be able to take a gigantic concept and boil it down to something that anyone, a non-practitioner even, could understand." This approach not only builds trust but also broadens the reach of your message.Call to Action: Don't miss this episode if you're looking to elevate your digital marketing game! Listen now and start applying these strategies to see real, measurable results in your business.Connect with Jamar RamosXLinkedinSend me a text!I've got thirty seconds to tell you about Wix Studio, the web platform for agencies and enterprises. Work in sync with your team on one canvasReuse templates, widgets and sections across sitesCreate a client kit for seamless handoversAnd leverage best-in-class SEO defaults across all your Wix sitesTime's up but the list keeps going. Step into Wix Studio to see more!Support the Show.Search the Simple and Smart SEO Show podcast for something you heard! It's free!Apply to be my podcast guest!

Dolly DeLong joins me to explore the real-world application of SEO for entrepreneurs and talk about the upcoming SEO Audio Summit.Key Takeaways:Introduction to Dolly DeLong:Dolly DeLong introduces her dual roles as a Middle Tennessee family photographer and a systems and workflow educator.She shares her experience of separating her photography and education businesses to better serve her audience and improve website clarity.The Importance of SEO:Dolly emphasizes the critical role of SEO in building a sustainable business, contrasting it with the fleeting nature of social media trends.Crystal and Dolly discuss the challenges and rewards of focusing on long-term SEO strategies versus short-term social media tactics.Real-World SEO Challenges:Dolly shares her ongoing project of optimizing two separate business websites and the importance of clear messaging for different target audiences.Crystal highlights the common misconception that simply having a website equates to good SEO, emphasizing the need for continuous optimization.Introduction to the SEO Audio Summit:Dolly introduces the free SEO Audio Summit, which features short, actionable tips from over 23 SEO experts.The summit is designed to provide entrepreneurs with easy-to-implement strategies that can significantly impact their online presence.SEO Bundle Details:Dolly shares details about the upcoming SEO bundle, which includes over $2,500 worth of resources for just $97 during the initial launch period.The bundle is designed for business owners who are ready to take their SEO to the next level, offering tools and strategies that can be implemented over time.Listener Action Items:Sign up for the free SEO Audio Summit, starting on August 13th.Explore the SEO bundle, available for purchase starting August 19th, with early access for those on the waitlist.Join the Waitlist For The SEO Bundle to get first access!!Send me a text!I've got thirty seconds to tell you about Wix Studio, the web platform for agencies and enterprises. Work in sync with your team on one canvasReuse templates, widgets and sections across sitesCreate a client kit for seamless handoversAnd leverage best-in-class SEO defaults across all your Wix sitesTime's up but the list keeps going. Step into Wix Studio to see more!Support the Show.Search the Simple and Smart SEO Show podcast for something you heard! It's free!Apply to be my podcast guest!

Join me as I recap an eventful summer, blending personal adventures and business breakthroughs. Over the last decade, I've struggled with taking time off - this year, I took more time off and made more money than last year.Let's go SEO!Key Takeaways:Business Achievements:Launched 2025 photo props, doubling sales from last June.Website traffic nearly doubled, showing successful SEO efforts.New Website Launch:Introduced a dedicated site for the Simple and Smart SEO Show.Joined an SEO bundle and audio summit.Wix Partnership:Became a Wix partner, aligning with new client projects.Launched a new members area for the SEO squad.SEO Bundle and Audio Summit:Contributed to an upcoming FREE SEO Audio Summit starting August 13th.Get my SEO first aid kit in the bundle - or in the SQUAD!Amazon Strategy:Embraced Amazon as a distribution channel, enhancing fulfillment.Plans to update on Amazon's business impact.Listener Action Items:Visit the new Simple and Smart SEO Show website.Join the SEO Squad for a free 20-minute brand interview.Stay updated on the SEO Audio Summit and SEO Bundle.Connect with Crystal:Website InstagramLinkedInSubscribe, rate, and review the Simple and Smart SEO Show on your favorite podcast platform!Send me a text!Support the Show.Search the Simple and Smart SEO Show podcast for something you heard! It's free!Apply to be my podcast guest!

I'm talking with veteran SEO expert Erin Sparks, host of the "Edge of the Web" podcast. Erin shares insider knowledge on building trust with Google and mastering SEO foundations.Key Topics:The Evolution of SEO: Discover how SEO has transformed since 2004, emphasizing accountability and digital strategy. Erin explains the shift from traditional marketing to a data-driven approach, highlighting the importance of staying current in the fast-paced digital landscape.Google's Knowledge Graph: Learn how to leverage Google's Knowledge Graph to enhance your online visibility. Erin discusses how businesses can curate detailed information about their services and products to establish authority and trust with Google.Effective Content Strategy: Erin delves into the importance of content clustering and internal linking. He provides practical tips on organizing your content to improve user experience and increase your website's relevance in Google's eyes.Maximizing Multimedia in SEO: Understand the role of podcasts, videos, and structured data in boosting your SEO. Erin highlights the benefits of hosting content on your website and using structured data to make your content more discoverable.Practical SEO Tools and Techniques: Erin introduces tools like AlsoAsked.com for discovering user queries and content gaps. He also explains the use of structured data and schema to communicate effectively with search engines, enhancing your site's visibility.What you can do:Targeting Non-Branded Keywords: Learn why focusing on non-branded keywords can attract a broader audience and enhance your site's discoverability.Optimizing Internal Links: Find out how to use internal linking to guide users and improve your site's navigability, helping Google understand your content structure.Implementing Structured Data: Erin breaks down the process of using structured data to provide search engines with a clear understanding of your site's content, leading to better rankings.Featured Highlights:ErinSend me a text!The Growth GearExplore business growth and success strategies with Tim Jordan on 'The Growth Gear.Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify This Is PropagandaChallenging marketers' delusions about the cultural impact of our work. A WEBBY winner!Listen on: Apple Podcasts SpotifySupport the Show.Search the Simple and Smart SEO Show podcast for something you heard! It's free!Apply to be my podcast guest!

Join me as I walk through the practical steps I took after my conversation with Erika Varangouli, an expert in content marketing, SEO, and branding at Riverside.fm.Key Takeaways:Integrating SEO with Branding:Erika emphasized the importance of aligning SEO with branding. Inspired by her advice, I started using customer reviews in ChatGPT to create better product descriptions.Customer-Centric Content:One new idea is to include a section in my thank-you emails that addresses potential issues, like delayed deliveries, to reassure customers and reduce their stress.SEO Strategy Evaluation:Erika's suggestion to regularly evaluate and adjust SEO strategies led me to create a monthly data day for the SEO Squad. Keyword Gap Analysis:After Erika mentioned the importance of competitor analysis, I used Ubersuggest to identify keyword gaps between my website and competitors. Data-Driven Adjustments:I'm now more committed to making data-driven decisions, regularly searching for new keywords and staying open to refining my strategy.Listener Action Items:Use customer feedback to enhance your product descriptions and align them with your brand's voice.Set aside time each month to review your SEO data and make strategic adjustments.Perform a keyword gap analysis to discover new opportunities to rank in search results.Connect with Me:Website: Simple and Smart SEO ShowEmail: hello@simpleandsmartseo.comSend me a text!Support the Show.Search the Simple and Smart SEO Show podcast for something you heard! It's free!Apply to be my podcast guest!