This Week in Local

In E89, SOCI's Monica Ho brings us into the world of local marketing and the innovative solutions that are transforming how multi-location enterprises manage their digital presence.  Monica shares insights into reaching a significant milestone—achieving $100 million in ARR—and the critical role that an integrated platform has played in this success.  We explore the challenges of tech bloat, the convergence of digital channels, and how AI is revolutionizing local marketing by offering hyper-localized content and intelligent automation.  This Week in Local is a Localogy production. To learn more, please visit Localogy.com.  Would you like to recommend a guest, ask a question, or sponsor an episode? Start a conversation with us at podcast@localogy.com.

In this episode of This Week in Local, we dive into the latest tech trends from SIGGRAPH 2024, with a special focus on the keynote featuring Meta CEO, Mark Zuckerberg and Nvidia CEO, Jensen Huang. The keynote highlighted the launch of new platforms for creating animated, human-like AI agents designed to revolutionize customer service for small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs).   Mike shares his thoughts on the feasibility of widespread adoption of these technologies by SMBs, touching on the Silicon Valley effect and the challenges of SMB tech adoption. This Week in Local is a Localogy production. To learn more, please visit Localogy.com.  Would you like to recommend a guest, ask a question, or sponsor an episode? Start a conversation with us at podcast@localogy.com.

In this episode of This Week in Local, we dive into the latest headlines surrounding OpenAI and its financial future.  Mike and Charles discuss the eye-catching report that OpenAI has only 12 months of cash left unless it secures significant funding. With a potential loss of $5 billion in 2024, they explore the sustainability of OpenAI's business model and what it means for the future of AI technology. This Week in Local is a Localogy production. To learn more, please visit Localogy.com. Would you like to recommend a guest, ask a question, or sponsor an episode? Start a conversation with us at podcast@localogy.com.

In E86, Mike and Charlie deep dive into the latest trends in venture funding, highlighting key insights from CB Insights and PitchBook.  They explore the significant impact of AI on venture capital, discussing whether AI is propping up the funding landscape and the scrutiny AI startups face from VCs.  The conversation also touches on the rise of deep tech and the resurgence of SaaS-based FinTech.  This Week in Local is a Localogy production. To learn more, please visit Localogy.com.  Would you like to recommend a guest, ask a question, or sponsor an episode? Start a conversation with us at podcast@localogy.com.

In E84, hosts Mike Boland and Charles Laughlin discuss the latest developments surrounding TikTok, focusing on the platform's ad spending growth and user trends.  Mike and Charlie analyze the slowing growth rate of TikTok's ad spending and user base, pondering whether it's a result of the legislative overhang or other factors such as the influx of TikTok Shop content. They also debate if the platform's core user demographic is evolving and how the commercialization of content might be altering the user experience. This Week in Local is a Localogy production. To learn more, please visit Localogy.com.  Would you like to recommend a guest, ask a question, or sponsor an episode? Start a conversation with us at podcast@localogy.com.

In E84 of “This Week in Local,” hosts Mike Bolin and Charles Laughlin dive into the evolving landscape of AI personal assistants with a focus on Ario, a Silicon Valley startup.  Ario, backed by $16 million in funding, aims to revolutionize the concept of personal assistants by leveraging large language models (LLMs) trained on individual user data. Mike and Charlie also discuss the importance of defensibility in AI startups, the significance of venture capital funding, and the evolving dynamics of the AI industry.  This Week in Local is a Localogy production. To learn more, please visit Localogy.com. Would you like to recommend a guest, ask a question, or sponsor an episode? Start a conversation with us at podcast@localogy.com.

In E83 of “This Week in Local,” Localogy analysts Charles Laughlin and Mike Boland discuss the recent partnership between Shopify and Target.  This collaboration allows Shopify merchants to gain additional exposure on target.com, providing a valuable distribution channel for small merchants.  The hosts break down the implications of this deal for Shopify, Target, and the broader e-commerce ecosystem. This Week in Local is a Localogy production. To learn more, please visit Localogy.com. Would you like to recommend a guest, ask a question, or sponsor an episode? Start a conversation with us at podcast@localogy.com.

In E82 of "This Week in Local," hosts Mike Boland and Charles Laughlin delve into the ongoing conflict between Meta and European data privacy regulators.  They explore how Meta's efforts to deploy Meta AI in Europe have hit a roadblock due to stringent privacy laws and the pushback from regulatory bodies, particularly in Ireland. This leads to a broader discussion on the challenges big tech companies face with European regulators, especially concerning the legality and ethics of using user-generated content for AI training. Mike and Charles also touch on similar standoffs involving Google and news publishers, drawing parallels with Meta's situation. They discuss the implications of these conflicts for the future of AI training data, referencing recent licensing deals like the one between OpenAI and News Corp.  This Week in Local is a Localogy production. To learn more, please visit Localogy.com. Would you like to recommend a guest, ask a question, or sponsor an episode? Start a conversation with us at podcast@localogy.com.

In E81, we dive into Amazon's latest moves in the local advertising space.  Co-host Mike Boland breaks down Amazon's pilot program for its sponsored display ads, revealing how it's expanding beyond traditional product advertising to include local service businesses. He discusses the involvement of key players like Hibu and Tiger Pistol and what this means for the future of local digital marketing. The conversation also touches on the broader implications of Amazon's first-party data strategy in an increasingly privacy-focused world. With insightful analysis on the competitive landscape and the potential challenges Amazon might face in navigating the fragmented local market, this episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the evolving world of local advertising and ecommerce. This Week in Local is a Localogy production. To learn more, please visit Localogy.com. Would you like to recommend a guest, ask a question, or sponsor an episode? Start a conversation with us at podcast@localogy.com.

In E80, SOCi's Damian Rollinson explains why direct optimization on core platforms like Google, Bing, Apple Maps, Yelp, and Facebook is now more critical than ever for local businesses. We explore the importance of long tail syndication in local SEO, its historical significance, and how its impact has evolved over time.  Tune in to get actionable insights and stay ahead in the competitive local search landscape.  Don't forget to check out part one of our discussion in episode 74! Get the report from SOCI here: https://www.meetsoci.com/resources/insights/brands-franchises/long-tail-syndication-still-work-local-search/ This Week in Local is a Localogy production. To learn more, please visit Localogy.com. Would you like to recommend a guest, ask a question, or sponsor an episode? Start a conversation with us at podcast@localogy.com.

In E79, David Shim shares his journey from founding Placed, to leading Foursquare as CEO, and now pioneering AI-driven solutions for online meetings with Read AI. Whether you're an entrepreneur, tech enthusiast, or just curious about the digital local ecosystem, this episode offers valuable perspectives on navigating and succeeding in the fast-paced world of startups. In these highlights from David's session at Localogy's recent L24 conference, he discusses the evolution of startup life, the challenges of building businesses in the modern landscape, and why now is the perfect time for Read AI, which recently raised $21 million to enhance virtual meetings with artificial intelligence. This Week in Local is a Localogy production. To learn more, please visit Localogy.com. Would you like to recommend a guest, ask a question, or sponsor an episode? Start a conversation with us at podcast@localogy.com.

In E78, host Charles Laughlin is joined by James Morse, SVP of Product at BrandMuscle and they discuss the unique challenges and strategies involved in marketing within the beverage alcohol industry, highlighting the historical context and modern-day intricacies of this highly regulated market. James provides a comprehensive look into the complexities of the beverage alcohol market, emphasizing the importance of local marketing and compliance. The discussion offers valuable insights for anyone interested in the dynamics of alcohol distribution and marketing. This Week in Local is a Localogy production. To learn more, please visit Localogy.com.  Would you like to recommend a guest, ask a question, or sponsor an episode? Start a conversation with us at podcast@localogy.com.

In E77, we share another highlight from Localogy's recent L24 conference in Arlington, Texas.  Our colleague Dan Hight sat down with Dave Rivera of Vistar Media to learn what's new in Digital Out of Home advertising. What resulted was a very engaging journey deep into the history of out of home (it all began with cave paintings, essentially) through its power today as one of the only media that reaches people when they are out and about.  The interview took place in April on stage at our L24 conference in Arlington, Texas. This 1:1 interview was originally supposed to be a panel. But unfortunately, Karim Kanji of Broadsign was unable to attend.  So we ended up with this engaging fireside chat about what is driving the growth of digital out of home. And what's holding it back.  This Week in Local is a Localogy production. To learn more, please visit Localogy.com.  Would you like to recommend a guest, ask a question, or sponsor an episode? Start a conversation with us at podcast@localogy.com.

In E76, we share one of the key moments from Localogy's recent L24 conference in Arlington, Texas. In April on the morning of the conference's second day, Localogy analyst Charles Laughlin sat down with Joe to discuss leadership and managing through change.  Joe is a longstanding leader in the local search industry,  The conversation at L24 followed a short presentation where Joe reflected on a “lifetime of pivots.” The interview we share in this episode delves into the thinking behind the key decisions Joe made as a leader over the years.  These choices include continuing to produce print directories even as the industry shifted to digital and committing the organization to a major pivot to SaaS.  This Week in Local is a Localogy production. To learn more, please visit Localogy.com.   Would you like to recommend a guest, ask a question, or sponsor an episode? Start a conversation with us at podcast@localogy.com.

In E75, Localogy analyst Mike Boland talks about automating the art of campaign management with Lasso Media Founder (and local search vet) Mike Wilson. This conversation about local search's transformation by automation will have veterans nodding in recognition and newcomers taking notes.  Wilson says his agency was automating digital marketing well before the recent AI surge. Now Lasso uses AI to accelerate this automation process.  Wilson points to call based advertising. The persistent idea that the value of a call is based on its duration is now “antiquated”. AI can quickly ascertain if a call produces a lead, regardless of its length.  This Week in Local is a Localogy production. To learn more, please visit Localogy.com.   Would you like to recommend a guest, ask a question, or sponsor an episode? Start a conversation with us at podcast@localogy.com.

In E74, Localogy analyst Mike Boland welcomes SOCi Director of Market Insight Damian Rollison, a research whiz whom Mike anoints as an honorary lifetime member of the local search analyst community.  Enjoy this geeky yet breezy conversation about modern trends in search, in particular, how generative AI is transforming (but not destroying) the search experience. The conversation is timely amid reports that OpenAI (e.gChatGPT) is on the verge of rolling out its own search engine.  But the conversation doesn't limit itself to AI. Mike and Damian talk about other ways that search is evolving. For example, the two discuss how TikTok has become the preferred search engine of many younger consumers, even if it isn't even a search engine.  This Week in Local is a Localogy production. To learn more, please visit Localogy.com.   Would you like to recommend a guest, ask a question, or sponsor an episode? Start a conversation with us at podcast@localogy.com.

In E73, co-hosts Mike Boland and Charles Laughlin talk about Apple's moves to make it even easier for small businesses to control how they appear on Apple Maps via Apple Business Connect.  As Mike puts it, Apple's efforts to make it easier for small businesses to update their profiles (which dictate how they appear on Apple Maps) is such a smart move. It allows Apple to scale its listings content by giving small businesses the tools to do it themselves. And they have an incentive to do so. What business doesn't want to be found at the right time for the right reason? This Week in Local is a Localogy production. To learn more, please visit Localogy.com. Would you like to recommend a guest, ask a question, or sponsor an episode? Start a conversation at podcast@localogy.com.

In E72, co-hosts Mike Boland and Charles Laughlin discuss the state of Threads. This is the Meta app (joined at the hip with Instagram) that emerged last year as a text-based social network. And as an alternative for those who could not abide Elon Musk's stewardship of X (nee Twitter).  The hook for this discussion was a recent Meta initiative to entice Instagram creators to create on Threads. It's a move the analysts understand. Platforms like Threads need content that attracts users. And lots of it. But they also felt this move has distinct Groupon or “Happy Hour vibes.” In other words, a whiff of desperation.  This Week in Local is a Localogy production. To learn more, please visit Localogy.com.   Would you like to recommend a guest, ask a question, or sponsor an episode? Start a conversation at podcast@localogy.com.

For E71, co-hosts Mike Boland and Charles Laughlin discuss the emerging new normal of how tech startups are being organized. This new normal involves a hyper-lean mindset among founders who now build with much smaller teams, outsource a lot more, are far more stingy with equity, and automate as much as they can using AI. This Week in Local is a Localogy production. To learn more, please visit Localogy.com.   Would you like to recommend a guest, ask a question, or sponsor an episode? Start a conversation with us at podcast@localogy.com.

In E70, co-hosts Mike Boland and Charles Laughlin discuss one of the most talked about startups in the Localogy-verse – Howard Lerman's Ro.am.  Specifically, co-host Mike Boland gives a download on his test drive of the Roam UX. And given Mike's expertise in AR/VR, Roam's spatial orientation is right up Mike's alley.   Mike's key point is that Roam's mission is to break out of the “form over function” trap that so much of what we build falls into.  This Week in Local is a Localogy production. To learn more, please visit Localogy.com.   Would you like to recommend a guest, ask a question, or sponsor an episode? Start a conversation with us at podcast@localogy.com.

For E69, co-hosts Mike Boland and Charles Laughlin shared highlights and insights from the recently completed L24 event in Arlington, Texas. L24 wasn't 100% AI-focused. Yet it was a key theme. Mike noted how practical the conversation around AI was at L24.  Charles pointed out that it was a relief that there wasn't a lot of AI “doomer” talk at L24. Yet he felt some tough conversations were being avoided. For example, what's really behind the talk about how AI is “democratizing” this or that? The analysts also discussed TikTok's U.S. future. This surfaced throughout the event, which was before legislation was passed requiring TikTok's owner Bytedance to divest its U.S. holdings. This Week in Local is a Localogy production. To learn more, please visit Localogy.com.  Would you like to recommend a guest, ask a question, or sponsor an episode? Start a conversation at podcast@localogy.com.

In E68, co-hosts Mike Boland and Charles Laughlin talk about how AI may disrupt yet another career ambition – becoming a professional influencer.  The analysts cite data showing that about half of GenZ's say they would enjoy a career sunning poolside for brand deals. They then pierce this bubble by citing brands' likely temptation to build their own influencers with AI tools like Sora and Midjourney. While this trend may not bode well for aspiring young influencers, the analysts agreed that some flavors of influencer marketing may enjoy at least some AI immunity. This includes the emerging category of local influencers, exemplified by companies like Hummingbirds.  This Week in Local is a Localogy production. To learn more, please visit Localogy.com.   Would you like to recommend a guest, ask a question, or sponsor an episode? Start a conversation at podcast@localogy.com.

In E67, co-hosts Mike Boland and Charles Laughlin Talk about TikTok's effort to stave off elimination in the U.S. by citing its formidable economic impact, particularly among small businesses.  The U.S. House has already passed a TikTok ban. And the measure awaits Senate approval.  The main driver of the movement to ban the popular platform is national security concerns stemming from TikTok's ownership by ByteDance, a Chinese company.  In the meantime, TikTok's lobbying efforts are focused on something the analysts describe as “Apple Pie” to dissuade American lawmakers from following through on the ban effort. That is the fortunes of American small businesses. According to TikTok's “Economic Impact Report 2024”, the video platform drove about $15 billion in revenue for U.S. SMBs in 2023.  The analysts debate whether this tack will work for TikTok.  This Week in Local is a Localogy production. To learn more, please visit Localogy.com.   Would you like to recommend a guest, ask a question, or sponsor an episode? Start a conversation at podcast@localogy.com.

In this Episode of Localogy's This Week in Local, co-hosts Mike Boland and Charles Laughlin unpack what we learned from Read.ai's recent $21 million Series A funding round.  The analysts agreed that the round is a good sign that VCs are out there for companies with proven founders and a good story. Although, it is not enough to declare the VC winter is thawing because a respected serial founder with “AI” in his company's name was able to raise a round.  What the analysts found even more interesting was the product expansion that accompanied Read.ai's funding round. This led to an interesting discussion on the episode of new ways organizations may (perhaps inevitably) apply this data.  This Week in Local is a Localogy production. To learn more, please visit Localogy.com.  Would you like to recommend a guest, ask a question, or sponsor an episode? Start a conversation at podcast@localogy.com.

This Episode of Localogy's This Week in Local features a rundown on an interesting new move in retail media, one of the current hottest trends in local.  Co-hosts Mike Boland and Charles Laughlin kick around the significance of retail giant Walmart's recent decision to expand access to its retail media network to what it calls “non-endemic brands.”  Or as Mike puts it, Walmart has “opened the floodgates to let local SMBs into the mix.” What does this mean for retail media broadly? To date, this has largely been a game for brands.  Will other retail media networks follow suit and open their floodgates to let SMBs in? Listen to the analysts talk it out to learn more.  This Week in Local is a Localogy production. To learn more, please visit Localogy.com.  Would you like to recommend a guest, ask a question, or sponsor an episode? Start a conversation at podcast@localogy.com.

In E64, co-hosts Mike Boland and Charles Laughlin dive into the European Union's Digital Marketing Act and what it could mean for Apple, Alphabet (e.g., Google), and Meta (e.g., Facebook, Instagram). The Act “requires companies to give users and rivals more choices to ensure a level playing field.” What does a hefty fine mean to companies that could afford to colonize Mars? This Week in Local is a Localogy production. To learn more, please visit Localogy.com. Would you like to recommend a guest, ask a question, or sponsor an episode? Start a conversation  at podcast@localogy.com.

In E63, co-hosts Mike Boland and Charles Laughlin discuss the recent news from Uberall. Uberall co-founder and CEO Florian Hübner will pass the CEO baton and take over as President. It's all about strategic positioning. In some cases, the founder's greatest value – including technical backgrounds – may lie closer to the product level or business development. This Week in Local is a Localogy production. To learn more, please visit Localogy.com. Would you like to recommend a guest, ask a question, or sponsor an episode? Start a conversation  at podcast@localogy.com.

In E62, host Mike Boland sits with Bluehost's Senior Director of Product Management, Chris Vanover Earlier this month Bluehost launched Bluehost Cloud, bringing its customers into the world of cloud hosting – an advanced form of web hosting that utilizes distributed servers for security, performance, and load balancing.  Listen to dive into these dynamics. This Week in Local is a Localogy production. To learn more, please visit Localogy.com. Would you like to recommend a guest, ask a question, or sponsor an episode? Start a conversation  at podcast@localogy.com.

In E61, co-hosts Mike Boland and Charles Laughlin discuss Chatmeter's latest innovation: Risk Monitoring.  This groundbreaking AI technology scans reviews and social media to pinpoint potential crises before they escalate. Chatmeter's Risk Monitoring has transformed their approach to risk mitigation in the hyper-digital era, reshaping the future of reputation management and helping businesses navigate the complexities of online presence with confidence This Week in Local is a Localogy production. To learn more, please visit Localogy.com. Would you like to recommend a guest, ask a question, or sponsor an episode? Start a conversation at podcast@localogy.com.

In E60, co-hosts Mike Boland and Charles Laughlin debate the merits of a new experiment from Google that applied AI to a common pain point.  Mke describes how Google has rolled out “Talk to a Live Rep” which uses AI to address a common consumer pain point, waiting on hold to talk to a live agent.  Mike sees this innovation within the broader context of Google's AI strategy. In essence, Google is pursuing Talk to a Live Rep in the same manner as it has rolled out all of its famous consumer products.  This Week in Local is a Localogy production. To learn more, please visit Localogy.com.  Would you like to recommend a guest, ask a question, or sponsor an episode? Start a conversation  at podcast@localogy.com.

In E59 of This Week in Local, Mike Boland welcomes Dan Hight to do a deep but efficient dive into all things location and location intelligence.  Not to mention adjacent and highly  consequential issues like privacy, digital out of home, and retail media.  Dan will lead several sessions on these very issues at Localogy's upcoming L24 conference. Luckily for Dallas-based Dan, this event will be a home game for him.  This Week in Local is a Localogy production. To learn more, please visit Localogy.com. ##  Would you like to recommend a guest, ask a question, or sponsor an episode? Start a conversation  at podcast@localogy.com.

In E58, Localogy senior analysts look at developments of interest to those following big tech, spatial computing, and finance.  Mike begins by sharing his take on what it means for TikTok to develop an app native to the new Apple Vision Pro.  Charles then talks about how the fintech company Klarna has turned an AI bot designed as a shopping assistant into a customer service agent that is driving millions in cost savings. As we often do, we wrap up this episode with each host's nomination for “Who Won the Week”. This Week in Local is a Localogy production. To learn more, please visit Localogy.com. ##  Would you like to recommend a guest, ask a question, or sponsor an episode? Start a conversation  at podcast@localogy.com.

In E57,  Localogy analysts look at platform paywall abandonment and one-person unicorns.  We begin with Mike sharing a brewing trend of content platforms abandoning paywalls as consumers appear to signal a willingness to view ads in exchange for free content.  Charles then raises the prospect, citing comments by OpenAI's Sam Altman, that we may not be far away from a one-person startup (leveraging AI) reaching unicorn status before taking on any employees.  And finally we wrap up the podcast with each host's nomination for “Who Won the Week” This Week in Local is a  Localogy production. To learn more, please visit Localogy.com. ## Would you like to recommend a guest, ask a question, or sponsor an episode? Start a conversation  at podcast@localogy.com.

In E56 of Localogy's This Week in Local podcast features Localogy senior analysts Mike Boland and Charles Laughlin look at business trends impacting the Localogy ecosystem.  First Mike shares his insights on the rollout of Apple Vision Pro.  Then Charles looks at how location intelligence firm Placer.ai is expanding the use cases for foot traffic data through a string of recent partnerships.  And finally we wrap up the podcast with each host's nomination for “Who Won the Week” This Week in Local is a  Localogy production. To learn more, please visit Localogy.com. ##  Would you like to recommend a guest, ask a question, or sponsor an episode? Start a conversation  at podcast@localogy.com.

E55 features Localogy senior analysts looking at business trends that demonstrate how fragmented the SMB market is and recent efforts from Klarna. Mike shares the results of an exercise he conducted looking at average net profit margins for various small business categories. Charles brings up recent efforts by buy now, pay later platform Klarna to achieve revenue diversification in advance of its expected IPO this year. The company appears eager to prove it is not a one-trick pony. And finally, we wrap up the podcast with each host's nomination for “Who Won the Week”. This Week in Local is a Localogy production. To learn more, please visit Localogy.com. ## Would you like to recommend a guest, ask a question, or sponsor an episode? Start a conversation at podcast@localogy.com.

E54 of This Week in Local features Localogy analysts unpacking recent news from FedEx and Uber. FedX's foray into eCommerce-as-a-Service via its FDX end-to-end eCommerce solution for businesses, comparing with recent Amazon efforts like Buy with Prime. Uber's decision to shut down booze-delivery app Drizly, which it acquired in 2021 for $1.1 billion. The analysts agree this deal has earned a spot in the pantheon of disastrous tech acquisitions. And finally, we wrap up the podcast with each hosts' nomination for “Who Won the Week”. This Week in Local is brought to you by Localogy. To learn more, please visit Localogy.com. Would you like to recommend a guest, ask a question, or sponsor an episode? Start a conversation at podcast@localogy.com.

In Episode 53 of Localogy's This Week in Local podcast, our analysts explore a pair of tech topics that have captured their fascination in the recent week. Mike focuses on summarizing the significant takeaways from the recent Consumer Electronics Show, particularly highlighting Google Auto's entry into the electric vehicle space. Charles, on the other hand, speculates about the potential adoption pattern of AI tools among small businesses, drawing insights from two research projects suggesting a significant uptick in small business AI adoption in 2024.  We encourage you to stay tuned until the very end, where each host reveals their nomination for "Who Won the Week."  This Week in Local is brought to you by Localogy. To learn more, please visit Localogy.com.Would you like to recommend a guest, ask a question, or sponsor an episode? Start a conversation at podcast@localogy.com.

In Episode 52 of Localogy's This Week in Local, our analysts usher in the new year by sharing insights and discussions on topics they've been covering in Localogy Insider. The introduction of Co-Pilot, formerly known as Bing Chat, as a standalone app by Microsoft prompts the question: Will this strategy contribute to the already rapid adoption of ChatGPT? Taking stock of the 2023 startup landscape reveals a somber record, marked by a tally of both outright failures and down rounds (fundraising at diminished valuations). This grim assessment is colloquially termed the "butcher's bill," and in 2023, it saw a substantial toll, with significant losses and financial setbacks. Each host offers one prediction for the new year.  This Week in Local is brought to you by Localogy. To learn more, please visit Localogy.com.  Would you like to recommend a guest, ask a question, or sponsor an episode? Drop us a line at podcast@localogy.com.

In Episode 51 of This Week in Local, Localogy Senior Analyst Charles Laughlin chats with a local legend, Read AI CEO & Co-founder David Shim.  As founder of Read AI, David is right in the thick of the emerging “remote tech” space that we follow closely at Localogy.  Tune in for how AI is reshaping the way we work and David's broader views on the pros and cons of AI. This Week in Local is brought to you by Localogy. To learn more, please visit Localogy.com.  If you would like to recommend a guest, ask us a question, or promote your brand to our powerful and engaged audience, please write to us at podcast@localogy.com.

In Episode 50 of This Week in Local, Localogy Senior Analyst  Charles Laughlin gets the  lowdown on the U.S. Federal Communications Commission's decision last week to close the “Lead Generation Loophole” from Matthew Marx, CEO of the Seattle-based digital marketing platform Evocalize.  Essentially the FCC upped the ante on the consent required for a lead in order to spare consumers the robo calls and texts that so often flood in after posting an inquiry on a comparison shopping website, for example.  Essentially this ruling makes it hard for lead generators to collect a lead once and sell it multiple times.  While Matt acknowledges the consumer benefit,  he wonders how the ruling will impact businesses that rely on lead generators for new business. He singles out mortgages, real estate, insurance, travel as being most impacted by the ruling.  Longer term, he thinks the ruling may be better lead generation and nurturing practice.  Tune in for a primer on a regulatory decision likely to reverberate throughout the local digital ecosystem once it kicks in next year.  This Week in Local is brought to you by Localogy. To learn more, please visit Localogy.com.  If you would like to recommend a guest, ask a question, or sponsor an episode, please write to us at podcast@localogy.com.

In Episode 49 of This Week in Local, Localogy Senior Analyst  Charles Laughlin facilitates a mini-masterclass on “BD-led M&A” with Josh Scherman of B2B Software Advisors. Josh is a small business SaaS veteran (ex of ConstantContact and SurePath Capital Partners) who now advises SMB software companies on growth and setting themselves up for successful exits. In brief, “BD-led M&A” is something we see every day when we read about this or that software company being gobbled up by a bigger fish.   Often the companies involved knew each other long before one purchased the other. And these relationships often begin with partnerships struck by biz dev pros traveling from one industry conference to another forging integration partnerships, reseller relationships, and so on.  These relationships often mark the beginnings of courtships leading to rich exits.  On the episode, Josh cites a number of famous examples of BD-led exits, including Endurance International and ConstantContact. And more recently, Atlasian's acquisition of Loom.  In fact, Josh says this LinkedIn Post from Loom Co-founder Vinay Hiremath reads like an advertisement for BD-led M&A.  This Week in Local is brought to you by Localogy. To learn more, please visit Localogy.com.  If you would like to recommend a guest, ask a question, or sponsor an episode, please write to us at podcast@localogy.com.

In Episode 48 of This Week in Local, Localogy's Mike Boland sits down with Progress Partners  Managing Director David Arslanian to unpack key takeaways from the OpenAI fiasco, now that the smoke has cleared.  As Mike puts it, David is the podcast's  “resident expert on all things finance and corporate doings.” Mike and David devote the episode to understanding what the Open AI board/Sam Altman imbroglio really means. Open AI's board abruptly fired Co-founder Altman and later bowed to pressure to reinstate him. First, Mike and David briefly unpack what happened. Then they offer some lessons from the bizarre turn of events at the organization at the heart of AI's rapid evolution from something running in the background to something poised to run every aspect of our lives.  Ultimately, a lot of what happened came down to money vs. mission. And money always wins that fight.  This Week in Local is brought to you by Localogy. To learn more, please visit Localogy.com.  If you would like to recommend a guest, ask a question, or sponsor an episode, please write to us at podcast@localogy.com.

In E47 of Localogy's This Week in Local podcast, senior analysts Charles Laughlin and Mike Boland find new angles on the ongoing saga of how AI is changing everything. Mike starts with a review of how Amazon and Google are making it easy to use generative AI to create product descriptions for Google product listings or Amazon product pages. Mike sees these moves in the context of how AI is working its way through the marketing stack, from stock images to copywriting to now the creation of product images. Charles takes this in a different direction and talks about recent comments from investor and All-In Podcast bro Chamath Palihapitiya that it is easier than it has ever been to launch a software company with just a couple of people. How? Well, just automate most tasks, from product development to marketing, using AI. In this scenario, Chamath doesn't see an outsize role for VCs.  Catch the hosts' selections for “Who Won the Week”. Perhaps Mike or Charles will mention you or your company! This Week in Local is brought to you by Localogy. To learn more, please visit Localogy.com.  Would you like to recommend a guest, ask a question, or sponsor an episode? Drop us a line at podcast@localogy.com.

In E46 of Localogy's This Week in Local podcast, senior analysts Mike Boland is joined by guest co-host Dan Hight to share their key takeaways from Localogy's Place 2023 conference in New York on November 7th, which the two hosts co-moderated. The event covered the local intersection of the physical and the digital. And the two analysts highlighted the lessons they took away from a high-powered group of speakers from companies that included Google, Yext, Foursquare, BrandMuscle, and many others. Some of the issues the analyst highlighted were the new normal in local advertising now that 3rd party cookies restrictions are in place. And of course, how AI is changing everything. This Week in Local is brought to you by Localogy. To learn more, please visit Localogy.com. ## Would you like to recommend a guest, ask a question, or sponsor an episode? Drop us a line at podcast@localogy.com.

In E45 of Localogy's This Week in Local podcast, senior analysts Charles Laughlin and Mike Boland sound off on Amazon ads to AI-enhanced meetings.  First Mike talks about a new option for SMB-facing agencies and publishers to sell inventory from a major advertising platform. In this case the ads are from Amazon, and hibu is  the guinea pig for this partnership model. Charles then trots out one of his favorite hobby horses – the future of work. In this instance he asks if the pivots and now rebranding of what was once Waitroom (now Rumi.ai) signal trouble in the fledgling “remote tech” space, or is Rumi just being opportunistic and poivoting to positioning itself clearly as an AI-enhanced meetings play and not as an alternative to Zoom.  And please remember to listen to the very end to catch the hosts' nominations for “Who Won the Week”. Perhaps Mike or Charles will mention you or your company. This Week in Local is brought to you by Localogy. To learn more, please visit Localogy.com. ## Would you like to recommend a guest, ask a question, or sponsor an episode? Drop us a line at podcast@localogy.com.

In E44, Localogy senior analyst Mike Boland talks about the evolution of a major newspaper company in the digital media age with Brandon Grosvenor, Chief Revenue Officer of Torstar Corporation, the parent company of the Toronto Star, Canada's largest daily paid newspaper, as well as multiple digital properties including Homefinder.ca and Save.ca. The conversation covers a lot of ground, from the arc of transformation in Yellow Pages (Brandon is a former Yellow Pages national sales exec) to the ability for a company with traditional media roots to thrive in a Google and Meta-driven world.  This Week in Local is brought to you by Localogy. To learn more, please visit Localogy.com. Would you like to recommend a guest, ask a question, or sponsor an episode? Write to us at podcast@localogy.com.

In E43, Localogy senior analyst Charles Laughlin talks about the unique power of local influencers with Emily Steele, the CEO & Co-founder of Hummingbirds. Hummingbirds is the antithesis of Khardashian level influencer marketing, where celebrities will millions of Instagram followers hawk luxury goods. Rather, it's about that friend in your community with perhaps hundreds of followers who convinced you to try out that new cocktail bar or yoga studio. Ultimately Hummingbirds sees itself as an innovative way for brands to break through to Millennial consumers who are “spending money on Spotify to avoid ads.” Des Moines, Iowa-based Hummingbirds began in 2019 to “help place-based brand find and work with hyper-local content creators to drive awareness and sales.” Steele says that brick and mortar retail and personal services businesses seem to resonate most with local influencer marketing.  The company raised a $1 million seed round late in 2022.  This Week in Local is brought to you by Localogy. To learn more, please visit Localogy.com. Would you like to recommend a guest, ask a question, or sponsor an episode? Write to us at podcast@localogy.com.

In E42, Localogy senior analysts Charles Laughlin and Mike Boland sound off on two topics that involve protecting the little guy. First Mike talks about how big tech platforms like Meta and Airbnb are applying user verification to small businesses.  Charles then asks out loud if crowdfunding platforms will become a go-to resource for tech startups running out of runway during the long VC winter. And always remember to listen to the very end to catch the hosts' nominations for “Who Won the Week”. Maybe they will mention you or your company. This Week in Local is brought to you by Localogy. To learn more, please visit Localogy.com. ## Would you like to recommend a guest, ask a question, or sponsor an episode? Write to us at podcast@localogy.com.

In E41, Localogy senior analysts Charles Laughlin and Mike Boland return to explore two top of mind topics. Mike begins with a look at the recent “Made by Google”event, which ostensibly was to roll out the new Pixel 8 phone but felt more like an AI product rollout.  Charles then talks about how an increasingly commoditized buy now pay later industry is seeking diversification in some familiar ways, including subscription products and retail media networks. Please be sure to listen to the full episode to catch the hosts' nominations for “Who Won the Week”. This week's entries touch on both the digital and physical worlds.  This Week in Local is brought to you by Localogy. To learn more, please visit Localogy.com. ## Would you like to recommend a guest, ask a question, or sponsor an episode? Write to us at podcast@localogy.com.

In E40, Localogy senior analysts Charles Laughlin and Mike Boland return to explore two rather divergent topics. Mike starts the show off with an update on Amazon's Just Walk Out technology, which makes it possible to fill a basket in a store, and just walk out with the goods, and pay for them electronically. The analysts kick around why this hasn't yet revolutionized retail. Charles then shared details of a story he is working on about a private equity group rolling out local home services companies, offering a viable exit opportunity for local plumbers nearing retirement age.  Please be sure to listen to the full episode to catch the hosts sharing their choices for “Who Won the Week”. This week's WWTW entries touch on some big tech milestones. This Week in Local is brought to you by Localogy. To learn more, please visit Localogy.com.

In E39, Localogy senior analyst Charles Laughlin talks SMB SaaS with vcita CEO & Founder CEO Itzik Levy. Itzik falls firmly on the side of all-in-one in the longstanding all-in-one vs. point solutions debate that has raged on and off for years in the small-business SaaS industry. Itzik says that the company was not founded on this principle. It got there gradually by listening to its customers.  Tune in for an engaging dialogue with a veteran SaaS founder. Itzik has plenty of advice on how to service the SMB market with software. In particular, Itzik offers tips on driving engagement among SMBs, long one of the biggest challenges in the small business software industry.  This Week in Local is brought to you by Localogy. To learn more, please visit Localogy.com.