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AI SEO: What's the Best Way to Structure Internal Links? Email Marketing Bonus with Favour Obasi-Ike | Get exclusive SEO newsletters in your inbox.This episode unveils an extensive discussion about the optimal methods for structuring internal links within your website to improve search engine optimization (SEO) and user experience. I explain that internal links should be contextually relevant, often using the analogy of a "sandwich" where the highlighted text (anchor text) aligns directly with the content of the linked URL. The conversation emphasizes that effective internal linking creates a "spiderweb" structure, connecting old and new content to enhance readability and discoverability by algorithms like Google. Finally, I discuss related digital marketing topics, including the benefits of leveraging email marketing platforms like Flodesk for cost efficiency and high deliverability, linking this back to the importance of a strong online structure.Next Steps for Digital Marketing + SEO Services:>> Need SEO Services? Book a Complimentary SEO Discovery Call with Favour Obasi-Ike>> Need more information? Visit our Work and PLAY Entertainment website to learn about our digital marketing services.>> Visit our Official website for the best digital marketing, SEO, and AI strategies today!10 Answer Keys for this episode1. An internal link is a word, phrase, or sentence that is highlighted to become a hyperlink. This link connects the current page to another relevant page or resource that exists within the same website domain.2. The "sandwich" effect occurs when the highlighted text (anchor text) uses the same words or phrase as the keywords found in the destination page's URL. This creates a strong contextual connection that is easily understood by both human users and search engine algorithms, improving the chances of the page ranking for those terms.3. Linking new and old pages creates a "bridge" or a "spiderweb" structure across a website. This practice helps search engines and users discover all related content, regardless of its publication date, ensuring that value is passed between pages and creating more pathways for visitors to find relevant information.4. Linking directly to a checkout page is a strategy to reduce friction and save the customer time, potentially leading to higher conversions, especially if the customer has already seen the product and has all the necessary information. Linking to a product page allows the customer to read more details and make a decision, but it introduces an extra step and risks them getting distracted by other items.5. "Structural marketing" is a concept where marketing efforts are built with discipline, rules, and a foundation, much like a physical structure. The website serves as the foundation, and its pages, connected by internal links, must be active and structured logically to support marketing goals.6. A website's search bar functions like Google's own search. When a user searches for a specific term like "candy" or "flowers," the website pulls results from its own internal index or inventory. If the website's content (the resource) is not properly structured and indexed, the search function (the source) is useless, like a well with no water.7. Local businesses should highlight the text of the city or state they want to be found in and link it to a relevant page. This is a form of on-page SEO that sends a signal to algorithms that the business serves that specific location, which can have a large long-term impact on local search visibility.8. HTTPS is the secure version of HTTP. Using an HTTPS link for hyperlinking ensures a clean, direct, and secure pathway for the user and search engine crawlers. Using an HTTPlink can result in a different, less secure experience that might cause the link to bounce back or redirect unnecessarily.9. A "do follow" link signals to search engines that you endorse the destination page and are attributing value or "link juice" to it. A "no follow" link tells search engines that you are citing or suggesting the link but are not endorsing it, so no domain authority or ranking signal is passed.10. When you update and republish one page that is internally linked to many other pages (e.g., 10 or 20), it sends a new signal to search engine algorithms for all connected pages. This one update effectively "republishes" all the linked pages in the eyes of the algorithm, signaling fresh activity across a wide swath of the website without having to manually update each page.Digital Marketing SEO Resources:>> Join our exclusive SEO Marketing community>> Read SEO Articles>> Need SEO Services? Book a Complimentary SEO Discovery Call with Favour Obasi-Ike>> Subscribe to the We Don't PLAY PodcastSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Flodesk Email Marketing Unlimited Pricing Plan Ends Nov 28! What Do I Do? Technical Talk with Favour Obasi-Ike | Get exclusive SEO newsletters in your inbox. Favour Obasi-Ike, an active partner, strongly advocates for the email marketing platform Flodesk.He emphasizes that its unlimited pricing model will end on November 28th and urges listeners to sign up before this date to lock in the beneficial pricing.He highlights Flodesk's robust deliverability through its use of Amazon SES and its superior click-through rates compared to competitors like Constant Contact and Mailchimp.The discussion also touches upon Flodesk's features, such as its comprehensive educational platform ("Flodesk University") and integration capabilities with services like Stripe and Shopify, while differentiating it from project management tools like ClickUp.Ultimately, Favour presents Flodesk as a cost-effective solution for creators and business owners seeking high-quality email marketing and business growth.He offers an affiliate link for a 14-day free trial and a 50% discount.Read the full article on "Join Flodesk Unlimited Pricing Plan by Nov. 28: Here's Why" here: https://www.playinc.online/post/join-flodesk-unlimited-pricing-plan-email-marketingNext Steps for Digital Marketing + SEO Services:>> Need SEO Services? Book a Complimentary SEO Discovery Call with Favour Obasi-Ike>> Need more information? Visit our Work and PLAY Entertainment website to learn about our digital marketing services.>> Visit our Official website for the best digital marketing, SEO, and AI strategies today!The most urgent message is the November 28th deadline to lock in Flodesk's unlimited pricing. This is a critical opportunity to secure cost predictability and avoid future standard pricing. Sign up now to get grandfathered in!Why Flodesk's Value is UnmatchedFlodesk's primary advantage is its unlimited pricing model. For a single flat fee, you get unlimited subscribers, emails, and workflows, leading to significant savings. This is a game-changer for cost efficiency, allowing you to scale without unpredictable costs. Discover how this core value proposition can transform your budget.The Engine Behind Your Success: Superior DeliverabilityA key reason for Flodesk's effectiveness is its technical foundation. It boasts a 17% higher view rate by leveraging Amazon SES, ensuring high deliverability and ensuring your emails land in the inbox, not spam. This technical superiority is the backbone of its high click-through rates.Explore Flodesk's Powerful FeaturesFlodesk is a comprehensive platform built for creators. Explore its full suite of capabilities:Design & Content: Create stunning emails with beautiful templates and embed videos or GIFs.Automation & Workflows: Set up triggered emails and sequences to nurture leads effortlessly.E-commerce Integrations: Seamlessly connect with Stripe and Shopify to sell products directly.Lead Capture: Build landing pages and pop-up forms to grow your list.Customization: Use custom domains and segmentation for a personalized touch.Proven Results: See our DataOur case studies show Flodesk's impact. One user saw click rates jump from 2-5% on Constant Contact to 35-40% with Flodesk. Another client migrated from ConvertKit (Kit) and saw their engagement more than double. The platform was the problem, and Flodesk was the solution.Learn with Flodesk UniversityGet the most out of your subscription with Flodesk University, a free, comprehensive educational platform. Learn everything from basics to advanced strategies without costly onboarding.How Flodesk Stacks UpWhile platforms like Mailchimp, Constant Contact, and Brevo are great, Flodesk differentiates itself with its unlimited pricing, superior aesthetics, and proven deliverability. It's the cost-effective solution for serious business growth.Ready to experience the difference? Use our affiliate link for a 14-day free trial and a 50% discount applied at checkout.Digital Marketing SEO Resources:>> Join our exclusive SEO Marketing community>> Read SEO Articles>> Need SEO Services? Book a Complimentary SEO Discovery Call with Favour Obasi-Ike>> Subscribe to the We Don't PLAY PodcastSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
This podcast features Cameron Richards, LMT and Faiza Tahir of Somatic Massage Therapy and Spa. The central theme is a therapeutic and educational approach to skincare that extends beyond traditional spa facials.Faiza Tahir, an Esthetician with 13 years of experience, specializes in a holistic methodology, combining advanced in-office treatments with client education and at-home care. A core offering is the Face Reality "Acne Boot Camp," a 100-day program designed to clear acne through bi-weekly treatments and a dedicated product regimen.The spa's philosophy emphasizes treating the skin from both the inside and outside, using modern modalities like LED light therapy and providing clients with a deep understanding of product ingredients and proper skin maintenance. The overall client experience is designed to be efficient, with 50-minute sessions and no downtime, aiming to produce tangible results and a feeling of rejuvenation.Business and Contact InformationYou can connect with Somatic Massage Therapy and Spa through multiple channels for information or to book a free consultation.• Business Name: Somatic Massage Therapy and Spa• Location: 113 Jericho Turnpike, Floral Park, NY (on the border of western Queens and eastern Nassau County)• Website: somaticmassagepc.com• Phone (Call): 516-686-9557 ◦ Fisa's Direct Extension: 7• Phone (Text): 516-447-4373• Booking: Can be done online via somaticmassagepc.com/book-appointment or by calling in.• Remote Consultation: Prospective clients can text a picture of their skin concern for an initial assessment from Fisa.--------------------------------------------------------------------------------Key Personnel and ExpertiseFaiza Tahir, Esthetician• Experience: 13 years in the aesthetics industry.• Education: Licensed through the New York Institute of Beauty (NYIB).• Certifications: Acne certified by Face Reality.• Dual Expertise: Holds experience working in both day spas and medical spas, giving her proficiency in both "relaxing facials" and "clinical graded facials."• Role: Serves as the Master Esthetician at Somatic Massage Therapy and Spa, performing all facials, peels, and skincare treatments. She is driven by a passion to "make a difference in the skins."Cameron Richards, Licensed Massage Therapist• Role: As a licensed massage therapist, Cameron highlights the critical need for skincare education, which he personally received from Faiza• Perspective: He emphasizes that the average consumer often lacks the knowledge to select appropriate skincare products, potentially causing more harm than good. He notes, "...if I don't know much imagine the average person out there who just walks into a Target Walgreens and just pick up anything off the shelf because they think it's going to work and they end up doing more harm."• Focus on Education: Cameron ensures that education is a key component of the client experience at the spa, particularly for men who may not be aware of proper skin cleansing and exfoliation techniques post-shaving.Core Skincare PhilosophyTherapeutic Treatments over Standard FacialsFaiza distinguishes the spa's services from conventional facials, framing them as targeted treatments.• Quote: "These are not only facials. These are therapeutical treatments we do. We do not use the word treatment at this spa, but these are the therapeutical... facial for them."• Day Spa vs. Med Spa: Fisa clarifies that while med spa products contain highly "active" ingredients used under a doctor's supervision, the spa's professional-grade products are highly effective and bring about significant changes in the skin.A Holistic "Inside and Out" ApproachThe treatment philosophy is comprehensive, addressing skin health from multiple angles.• External Healing: In-office treatments focus on healing the skin from the outside using professional products and modalities.• Internal Healing: Clients are provided with products, such as vitamins from the Face Reality line, to promote healing from within.• Hydration: The importance of hydration, both oral and topical, is stressed for all skin types, including acne-prone and mature skin.Specialized Acne Treatment Program: The Face Reality Boot CampA cornerstone of the spa's offerings is a structured, results-oriented program for acne clients.• Objective: To clear the client's skin within 100 days (approximately 3 months).• Process: 1. Free Consultation: The process begins with a skin analysis and a thorough review of the client's current home care products and their ingredients. 2. Bi-Weekly Treatments: Clients come in every two weeks for in-office procedures. 3. Dedicated Home Care: Clients are instructed to use Face Reality products at home, which Fisa describes as "amazing" and working "like a magic."• Results Timeline: Clients typically begin to see a noticeable difference in their skin after just three weeks of consistent in-office treatments and home care.The Client Journey and Treatment ExperienceConsultation and In-Office Procedure• Initial Step: The client journey starts with a free consultation to analyze the skin and educate the client about products that may be exacerbating their condition.• Treatment Duration: The in-office session is efficient, lasting approximately 50 minutes.• Treatment Steps: A standard session includes cleansing, exfoliation, extractions, and calming the acne.• Client Feedback: Following a treatment, clients report a distinct sensation of freshness. Fisa notes, "Most of my client... they tell me... we are feeling that our skin is breathing now." This is attributed to clearing clogged pores, allowing oxygen to penetrate the skin.Post-Treatment and Downtime• No Downtime: Clients can immediately return to their daily activities.• Minor Side Effects: There may be slight edema (swelling) or redness for 20 minutes to one hour following extractions, but this subsides quickly.Available Technologies and Targeted ConcernsSomatic Massage Therapy and Spa is equipped with modern modalities to address a variety of skin concerns.Technology / Treatment PurposeSaluma LED Light TherapyUtilizes different light wavelengths to treat skin. Red LightUsed to calm down active acne. Blue LightAlso used for acne treatment.Chemical PeelsUsed to treat post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) and other concerns.Nano InfusionA procedure to enhance product penetration and skin health.ReferralsClients can be taken to a partner med spa for Micro-needling and PRP.Primary concerns addressed include:• Active Acne• Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH)• Melasma (lightening and management)• Anti-AgingSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Web Optimization: Technical SEO and Content Marketing Best Practices with Favour Obasi-Ike | Get exclusive SEO newsletters in your inbox.Focusing on web optimization, technical SEO, and content marketing, likened to building a durable house or maintaining a high-performance car. The discussion features several experts who explore strategies for increasing online visibility and revenue, emphasizing the critical role of a strong website foundation, reliable hosting, and effective content creation, particularly through blogs and YouTube, to address customer questions. We also debate the impact of AI on search and the necessity of SEO versus relying on other traffic channels like TikTok, concluding that a unified, authoritative online presence is key to gaining trust and accelerating business growth.--------------------------------------------------------------------------------Next Steps for Digital Marketing + SEO Services:>> Need SEO Services? Book a Complimentary SEO Discovery Call with Favour Obasi-Ike>> Need more information? Visit our Work and PLAY Entertainment website to learn about our digital marketing services.>> Visit our Official website for the best digital marketing, SEO, and AI strategies today!--------------------------------------------------------------------------------What marketing topics are central to this discussion? The core topics discussed are web optimization, technical SEO, and content marketing.Why are technical setup and content vital for a website? Technical and content aspects should work together to make your website an "optimized place" and an "optimized greenhouse" for your business online. When you combine technical elements and content, you create a much wider network and a more extensive resource.What does the term "optimization" imply? Optimization is equated with consistency. If a website is not being optimized consistently, it is metaphorically stuck, like a car not moving in a driveway.How should a business approach content creation to serve both people and algorithms? Website owners should write for people first, but they must also keep the search algorithm in mind. The goal is to create many pages that interlink, providing a journey from discovery to decision for the user, utilizing various formats like video, audio, infographics, FAQs, or glossaries.How does authorship relate to building credibility online? When content is created on your website, it should be attributed to an author page originating from the person writing the content. Including expert quotes within a blog that has your name attached builds credibility. Furthermore, having your name indexed by Google as a blog author via a profile link can put you ahead of the competition.--------------------------------------------------------------------------------Technical SEO and Website FoundationWhat are the fundamental components necessary for a website? The process starts with your domain, followed by your hosting, and then your website. Key technical considerations include where you host the website, the CMS platform used, and how your DNS records are configured.Why is choosing a quality host important? You must have the correct hosting, meaning the host should not go down. Many cheap hosting services put literally thousands of websites on the same servers. It is better to pay more for a higher quality server.How can I monitor if my website is experiencing downtime? You can use free monitoring tools, such as Uptime Robot, which will monitor your website's uptime and send you an alert if the site goes offline.What is a major technical mistake regarding domain names? A "big one" is simply keeping track of your domain name. It is recommended to renew your domain name for a couple of years at a time, rather than just one year.What is the distinction between technical setup and content in an analogy? Technical SEO is like the exterior of a car—the battery, engine, oil, and fluids—determining speed and duration. Content marketing is the interior—the steering wheel, comfort, and aesthetics.--------------------------------------------------------------------------------AI, Schema, and Search StrategyWhat is the relationship between AI, search, and structured websites? The rise of AI suggests a thin line is developing between unstructured websites and structured websites. AI is actively affecting the way people search.What is schema, and how is it used on a website? Schema refers to structured data. When implementing schema on a web page, you should focus on elements like breadcrumbs, FAQs, and price/stock information, as these elements allow you to have a much higher signal. Structured data involves taking unstructured information (like a general blog post) and organizing it using visual elements, examples, statistics, and expert quotes.How can a business influence LLMs (Large Language Models) like ChatGPT? AI platforms (LLMs) seek to grab information. The "secret key" is to release news about your business through press releases. This process helps your information get into Google News, which the LLMs will then pick up.In terms of building authority, what should a business prioritize? The priority is to first be known, as you cannot be trusted if you are not known. Putting out content on how you solve problems is essential for gaining recognition.What specific content strategy is recommended for building authority (e.g., for an auto dealership)? A good strategy is to find long-tail keywords, particularly questions, using tools like ChatGPT or the "People Also Ask" section on Google results. Then, create content answering those questions, allocating one question per blog post. These articles should be at least 300 to 500 words long. To enhance this content, you can create and embed a related YouTube video on that specific blog page.--------------------------------------------------------------------------------Content Distribution and Platform UseWhat platforms should be used to support a website's foundation? In addition to a strong website, you should have supporting foundations such as YouTube, social media, or news outlets. The game is distribution; the more you can distribute your content, the more you can increase your capacity.If a client is highly successful using a non-search channel (like TikTok), is SEO necessary? If a client has an amazing traffic funnel on a channel like TikTok or YouTube, they do not necessarily need SEO; they should focus on doing more of what is already working. However, if the market relies more on search, setting up a broad SEO net is highly recommended.What is the key difference in content interaction between Pinterest and Instagram? On Instagram, you can save a post, but you cannot click on the image to go to a destination link outside of the platform (unless you use the link in the bio). On Pinterest, you can click on an image, and it will take you to a destination link, providing a "soft backlink".What unique data intelligence does Pinterest provide to business owners? While Instagram saves are private, a business owner with a Pinterest business account can see the names of the boards that users saved their pins to (if the boards are public). This information tells the business owner what context the user assigned to the content (e.g., "mentorship," "food"). This data intelligence allows the business to create more relevant content.What category of platform is Pinterest considered? Pinterest is viewed as a hybrid of both search and social. People use Pinterest to plan.Why is it important to consider factors like font size in web content? When optimizing content, size matters. A font size of 20 pixels will likely be read faster than a font size of 12 pixels, as people often skim or scan content rather than reading every detail. Similarly, small text in emails can be ignored because people do not want to squint.--------------------------------------------------------------------------------Glossary Term & DefinitionAuthorshipThe practice of associating content with a specific person or brand name. This builds credibility and helps Google and other search algorithms recognize the entity as an expert, which can improve search rankings.CMS (Content Management System)The software platform used to build and manage a website's content. The choice of CMS is a foundational technical decision that impacts how a site is built and maintained.Content MarketingThe strategic practice of creating and distributing various forms of media (text, audio, video, images) to attract and engage a target audience. In the session's car analogy, it represents the "interior" of the car—the user's experience.DeepseekAn AI search tool mentioned as an alternative to ChatGPT. It was noted for providing more detailed, contextual answers compared to just a list of questions, suggesting it performs a deeper data crawl.LLMs (Large Language Models)The AI systems, like ChatGPT, that power modern search and chat platforms. These models crawl the web for information, and the discussion focuses on how to get a website's content indexed and recommended by them.llms.txtA file, similar to robots.txt for search engines, that is intended to control how AI Large Language Models crawl and use a website's content.PinterestDescribed as a "hybrid of both search and social," this platform is highlighted as a powerful tool for web optimization. It functions like "Google Images," driving traffic through clickable pins and providing deep user insights through public board names.Press ReleaseA news announcement distributed to media outlets. It is presented as a key tactic to get a business featured in Google News, which helps it get noticed by LLMs and establishes the business as "known."SchemaA form of structured data markup added to a website's code. It helps search engines understand the content more deeply, enabling features like FAQs, price ranges, and breadcrumbs in search results, which is crucial for ranking in AI-driven search.Sigmoid CurveA concept mentioned by John to describe the adoption rate of new technology. It illustrates that different demographics (e.g., older vs. younger generations) are at different points on the curve in their adoption of tools like AI search.Technical SEOThe process of optimizing the technical aspects of a website to improve its performance and crawlability for search engines. In the session's car analogy, it represents the "exterior" and "under the hood" components like the engine and battery, which dictate speed and reliability.Uptime RobotA free online tool recommended for monitoring a website's availability. It alerts the owner if their website goes down, preventing loss of traffic and revenue from unnoticed outages.Web OptimizationA consistent, ongoing process of improving a brand's entire online presence, not just the main website. It involves technical SEO, content marketing, and leveraging surrounding platforms (like YouTube and Pinterest) to drive traffic and engagement.--------------------------------------------------------------------------------Digital Marketing SEO Resources:>> Join our exclusive SEO Marketing community>> Read SEO Articles>> Need SEO Services? Book a Complimentary SEO Discovery Call with Favour Obasi-Ike>> Subscribe to the We Don't PLAY PodcastSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
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Technical SEO Study with Favour Obasi-Ike: Website Speed / Content Delivery Network (CDN) / Content Management System (CMS) = Why Is My Website Slow?| Get exclusive SEO newsletters in your inbox.Technical SEO is a major common issue for websites causing them to start loading slowly. We discuss that slow speeds are often caused by poor hosting platforms lacking sufficient bandwidth and uncompressed media, particularly images and videos.Crucially, we emphasize the importance of acquiring and maintaining intellectual property ownership, including the domain and C panel (Control Panel) access, to prevent developers from holding site information hostage.Additionally, the conversation highlights technical aspects like utilizing a Content Delivery Network (CDN), compressing files using tools like compressor.io, and employing proper image file types and alt text for improved search engine optimization.Next Steps for Digital Marketing + SEO Services:>> Need SEO Services? Book a Complimentary SEO Discovery Call with Favour Obasi-Ike>> Need more information? Visit our Work and PLAY Entertainment website to learn about our digital marketing services.>> Visit our Official website for the best digital marketing, SEO, and AI strategies today!Answer Key1. What is "Technical SEO"? Technical SEO, or "technical search engine (everywhere) optimization," refers to the technical methods used to ensure a brand or business shows up on web servers and desired websites, typically in the form of a link. It involves optimizing the underlying infrastructure of a website to improve its visibility and performance in search results.2. Identify and explain the two primary factors discussed that cause a website to load slowly. The two primary factors are the hosting platform and the presence of numerous uncompressed images. A poor hosting platform may have insufficient bandwidth or be an overloaded shared server, while large, uncompressed image files significantly increase the amount of data a user must download, slowing the entire loading process.3. What is a "high bounce rate," and how does it relate to a website's performance? A high bounce rate occurs when a visitor comes to a website and leaves quickly without interacting further. This is often caused by slow loading times, as users lack the patience to wait for content; another website might provide the same information three seconds faster, which is enough to make a user leave.4. Define what a Content Delivery Network (CDN) is and name the two types of servers that comprise its network. A CDN, or Content Delivery Network, is a system that stands between a website's hosting (the origin) and the end-user. It caches and compresses website files, like images, across multiple geographic locations to deliver them to users more quickly. The two types of servers within a CDN are the origin server, where the website's original content is stored, and the edge server, which is geographically closer to the end-user and delivers the cached content.5. Why is it crucial for a business owner to have direct ownership of their website's hosting server? Direct ownership of the hosting server ensures control over one's intellectual property and prevents being held "hostage" by a developer. If a business is on someone else's overloaded shared server, performance issues on one site can affect all sites (a "domino effect"). Owning the server provides direct access to the control panel, backups, and the website's blueprint, which is vital for management and troubleshooting.6. Explain the role of "alt text" and how it contributes to a website's visibility and accessibility. Alt text, or alternative text, is a description added to an image's code. It provides context to search engines like Google and AI indexers, making the images searchable and improving the site's overall SEO. Furthermore, alt text is critical for accessibility, as it allows screen reading software to describe the image to visually impaired users.7. What is a "cPanel," and what critical functions can be performed by accessing it? "cPanel" stands for Control Panel. It is the administrative dashboard for a website's hosting server. Accessing the cPanel is critical because it allows a user to get backup data, access the actual blueprint of the website, and see technical details like the file sizes of stored images.8. Describe the significant negative impact that uncompressed images can have on a website, using the specific numerical example from the discussion. Uncompressed images drastically increase a website's loading time because of their large file size. The example given was an online store with 50 products, each with two image variations. If each uncompressed image is 5 megabytes, the total data added to the site's front-loading speed would be 500 megabytes, whereas compressing those same images could reduce the total size to just 50 megabytes (10% of the original) without losing quality.9. What are the two recommended methods for incorporating video content on a website without negatively affecting its load speed? We strongly advises against directly uploading video files (e.g., MP4s). Instead, the two recommended methods are: 1) converting the video into a GIF and uploading the much smaller GIF file, or 2) embedding the video from a third-party platform like YouTube, which ensures the video is streamed from YouTube's servers and not the website's own server.10. Name at least three free tools mentioned that can be used to analyze a website's performance and health. Three of these are GTmetrix, Google Page Speed Insights, and Siteliner. Other mentioned tools include Compressor.io and iLoveIMG.com for image compression and iLovePDF.com for documents.Digital Marketing SEO Resources:>> Join our exclusive SEO Marketing community>> Read SEO Articles>> Need SEO Services? Book a Complimentary SEO Discovery Call with Favour Obasi-Ike>> Subscribe to the We Don't PLAY PodcastBrands We Love and SupportDiscover Vegan-based Luxury Experiences | Loving Me Beauty Beauty ProductsSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Meet Rob Hoffmann, the founder of the AI SEO LLM marketing tool "Mentions." Our conversation focuses on the evolving landscape of search engine optimization (SEO) due to the rise of Large Language Models (LLMs) like ChatGPT, Claude, Grok, DeepSeek, and Perplexity etc,, which are becoming alternatives to traditional Google search. Rob Hoffmann discusses his journey into entrepreneurship, which started with an SEO agency called Contact, and how the need to track and improve brand visibility on these new AI platforms led to the creation of Mentions, which helps brands appear in LLM recommendations.Throughout our interview, Rob Hoffmann emphasizes the importance of reverse engineering consumer behavior, the need for excellent customer service (even providing his direct phone number to customers), and the affordability of mentions compared to competitors. Our discussion concludes with practical advice for businesses on determining if investing in LLM visibility is worthwhile based on their customer's buying journey.FAQs1. What is Mentions, and why was it founded?Mentions is a tool that assists brands and SEO agencies in navigating the evolving search landscape dominated by Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Large Language Models (LLMs).Founding Rationale:• Mentions was born out of Rob Hoffmann's SEO agency, Contact.• The shift was necessitated by the recognition that SEO had "changed a lot" recently in response to AI, with search trends moving away from Google and "towards platforms like ChatGPT" (along with Perplexity, Gemini, Claude, etc.).• The founding goal was to be "the SEO agency of the future".• The tool was specifically created to solve two problems: providing a way of measuring brands visibility on LLM platforms, and helping brands get more visibility on platforms like ChatGPT.2. Why are LLMs becoming preferred search alternatives, and how does this affect marketing?People are increasingly turning to LLMs because consumer trust in traditional Google search results (the SERP's top 10 links) has declined, as many users feel these results have been "gamed" by marketers.• Trust in ChatGPT: Conversely, trust in ChatGPT is "through the roof". This is because the chat-based interface makes interaction feel like a conversation with a friend or even a therapist, providing personalized responses from an "all-knowing AI entity".• Customer Acquisition Channel: Because ChatGPT is becoming a frequently used search engine alternative, showing up in its responses when a user searches for a product (e.g., "what is the best organic sulfite free shampoo") is seen as a "great customer acquisition channel".3. How does the mention tool conceptualize LLM visibility (GEO)?Mentions is built on the understanding of how modern LLMs generate answers: LLM + search operator = the result.• The Process: When a user inputs a query (e.g., "what is the best shampoo for dry scalps"): 1. The LLM searches the internet (like Bing or Google). 2. It scrapes the top 10 to 20 results that show up on those search engines. 3. It digests, summarizes, and serves that information to the user.• The Strategy: For a brand to achieve visibility in LLMs (GEO), they must first show up in those underlying search results (traditional SEO). Mentions helps brands reverse engineer the process by figuring out how platforms like ChatGPT get their data and, critically, what sources they are citing to provide responses, thereby guiding the brand to become a cited source.4. What are the key features of the mentions platform?Mentions helps users understand and optimize their content strategy based on LLM data.• Prompts Section (Favorite Feature): This allows users to track specific searches or prompts. When tracking a prompt, mentions shows examples of conversations and, most usefully, lists the pages that are most being cited by ChatGPT. This list provides an "easy road map" for the brand to know whether they should create new content or reach out to those listed publishers to get mentioned.• Analytics Feature: This feature pulls data from Google Analytics 4 (J4) into an easy-to-use dashboard. It helps users see which pages on their website people are visiting most often from LLMs (such as ChatGPT or Perplexity), along with geographical data and device usage (mobile vs. desktop). The founder notes that seeing this traffic is often a "magical experience" for users.• Tracking Cadence (24-Hour Clock): Mentions inputs tracked prompts into all supported LLMs (ChatGPT, Perplexity, Claude, Deepseek, etc.) every 24 hours. This is essential because LLM responses are not identical on every search (the overlap is about 70%), so regular, repeated testing ensures the collection of a large data set, which increases the accuracy of the insights provided.5. Who should invest in mentions or GEO (LLM visibility)?The decision to use mentions depends entirely on the company's buyer journey.• Yes, Use Mentions If: If the company's buyer journey involves the ideal customer having a problem and then searching for an answer in Google or Chat GBT to inform their buying decision, then investing in SEO and GEO (LLM visibility) is recommended. If the end customer uses ChatGPT to inform their buying decision, then mentions is advisable.• No, Don't Use Mentions If: If the product is an impulse buy (e.g., a consumer package goods product seen on TikTok or Instagram that prompts an immediate purchase), then search engines like Google or ChatGPT are not part of the buyer journey, and SEO/GEO is likely not the best investment of marketing resources.6. How does mentions handle customer service and support?Customer service is a highly emphasized competitive advantage and value proposition for mentions.• Direct Access: Rob Hoffmann, the CEO and co-founder, gives his personal phone number, WhatsApp, email, and allows customers to contact him on social media (X/Twitter). This is done to avoid the frustration associated with generic AI chatbots, calling hotlines, or being put on hold.• Personalized Onboarding: He finds it helpful to get on calls with users (or a co-founder) to provide a live demo, walk them through the platform, suggest useful features, and look at their specific site.• Commitment to Resolution: Hoffmann promises that if a user has a question, he will answer it; if they encounter a bug, he will fix it (or ping a technical co-founder); and if they request a new feature, "we will ship that for you". Customers can literally pick up the phone and call him directly if they run into an issue.7. How can people start using mentions?To get started, users should go to the website mentions.so and create an account.After creating an account, they will receive an email that allows them to book a call directly with Rob Hoffmann. He also welcomes connections via LinkedIn or X (search for Rob Hoffman), or email rob@contactststudios.com to connect with Rob today!Next Steps for Digital Marketing + SEO Services:>> Need SEO Services? Book a Complimentary SEO Discovery Call with Favour Obasi-Ike>> Need more information? Visit our Work and PLAY Entertainment website to learn about our digital marketing services.>> Visit our Official website for the best digital marketing, SEO, and AI strategies today!Digital Marketing SEO Resources:>> Join our exclusive SEO Marketing community>> Read SEO Articles>> Need SEO Services? Book a Complimentary SEO Discovery Call with Favour Obasi-Ike>> Subscribe to the We Don't PLAY PodcastBrands We Love and SupportDiscover Vegan-based Luxury Experiences | Loving Me Beauty Beauty ProductsSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Why Is My Competitor SEO Outranking Me? Marketing Real Talk with Favour Obasi-Ike (Glossary)| Get exclusive SEO newsletters in your inbox.
What's the Best Effective SEO Strategy for Beginners? Marketing Essentials with Favour Obasi-Ike (Glossary)| Get exclusive SEO newsletters in your inbox.This discussion offers an in-depth exploration of Search Engine Optimization (SEO) strategies, primarily for beginners and small business owners emphasizing the importance of audience targeting, answering user questions, and consistent content creation (such as blogs and podcasts) to improve online visibility.Key technical SEO aspects are highlighted, including securing a website with HTTPS, creating and submitting a sitemap (XML file) for search engine readability, and focusing on long-tail keywords for better conversion rates. The conversation also touches on the effective use of various platforms like Clubhouse, Google Analytics, and Google Search Console for data intelligence and content distribution, ultimately aiming to protect, earn, and scale a business's online presence.Next Steps for Digital Marketing + SEO Services:>> Need SEO Services? Book a Complimentary SEO Discovery Call with Favour Obasi-Ike>> Need more information? Visit our Work and PLAY Entertainment website to learn about our digital marketing services.FAQs1. What is the fundamental principle of effective SEO for beginners?The best SEO strategy for beginners starts with understanding and targeting your audience by asking questions. SEO is fundamentally about providing answers to the questions people are asking. This approach not only helps you create relevant content but also aligns your efforts with how search engines (like Google, ChatGPT, Pinterest, YouTube, and Amazon) operate. By consistently answering these questions, you build authority and credibility, which are crucial for visibility and growth. Tools like Answerthepublic.com, Answerocrates.com, SparkToro.com, and Ubersuggest.com can help you identify these questions and understand audience intent.2. Why is audience understanding crucial for SEO and content creation?Understanding your audience is paramount because it allows you to create content that directly addresses their needs and queries. When you create content with the user's questions in mind, you're not just optimizing for algorithms; you're building a connection with your potential audience. This "three-way connection" between you, your audience, and the algorithm ensures that your content resonates with those actively searching for solutions. It helps bypass the algorithm by matching user intent with your offerings, leading to higher engagement and a stronger brand.3. What are the essential technical SEO elements for a beginner's website?For a beginner, ensuring strong technical SEO involves several fundamental steps:HTTPS Security Connection (SSL): Always secure your website with an HTTPS connection. This creates a privacy area for users, builds trust (indicated by a padlock in the browser), and is a crucial ranking factor for search engines. Websites without this are often flagged as "not secure," leading to immediate user abandonment.Sitemap (XML File): A sitemap is like a brain or a map for your website, allowing algorithms to read and understand its structure and content. While humans read HTML (hypertext markup language), algorithms read XML (expandable markup language). Platforms like WordPress (with plugins like Yoast, RankMath), Squarespace, Shopify, and Wix automatically generate sitemaps, but they must be connected to tools like Google Search Console and Google Analytics to be fully activated and effective.No Broken or Duplicated Links: Regularly check for and fix broken links and avoid duplicating content, as these issues can confuse search engines and negatively impact your ranking.4. How important are blogs and consistent content creation for SEO?Blogs (or articles, sources) are essential because they tell the world you have something valuable to say. Websites like Wikipedia, Reddit, Shopify, and Canva all leverage blogs to provide information. A consistent blogging strategy feeds your website with good, indexable information that can be submitted to various search engines (Google, Yahoo, Microsoft) and AI platforms (ChatGPT). This consistency helps you earn credibility, which in turn leads to broader distribution across different platforms, strengthening your online presence. For new businesses, publishing content 1-2 times a week can show significant results within 3-6 months.Glossary of Episode Key Terms: SEO for BeginnersAAlgorithm: A set of rules or instructions that a search engine uses to rank websites and determine the relevance of content to a user's query.AnswerThePublic.com / Answerocrates.com/ SparkToro.com / Ubersuggest.com: Website tools used for keyword research and understanding audience questions and interests.Article: A piece of written content on a website, essential for SEO and establishing expertise.Audience Targeting/Marketing: Focusing marketing efforts on a specific group of consumers who are most likely to be interested in a product or service.Access Links: See Backlinks.BBacklinks/Referral Links/Access Links/Image Links: Different types of links pointing back to a website, which are crucial for SEO authority.Binary Code: A computer language that uses only two symbols, typically 0 and 1, to represent information.Blog: A section of a website featuring regularly updated written content.Bootstrapping: Starting a business with little or no outside capital, relying on personal finances or operating revenues.Bottom of Funnel: The stage in the customer journey where users are ready to convert; content here targets these users.Broken Links: Hyperlinks that point to non-existent or moved pages, negatively affecting user experience and SEO.CChatGPT/Perplexity/Pinterest/YouTube/Amazon: Examples of platforms where users search for information, and SEO strategies can be applied to increase visibility.Clubhouse Plus: A paid feature on the Clubhouse app, offering tools to enhance user experience and business growth.Content Distribution: The process of publishing and promoting content across various platforms and channels.Content Reproduction/Publish/Distribute: The process of creating, making available, and spreading content across various channels.Conversion Opportunities/Lifts/Engagement: Metrics indicating how often users take a desired action (e.g., signing up, purchasing), how much those actions increase, and how users interact with content.Credibility: The quality of being trusted and believed in, built through consistent and valuable content.DData Intelligence/Market Intelligence: Gathering and analyzing information to understand market trends, customer behavior, and competitive landscapes.Duplicated Links: Multiple links pointing to the same content, which can confuse search engines and dilute link equity.FFAQs (Frequently Asked Questions): A section of a website that provides answers to common customer questions, useful for both users and algorithms.GGoogle Analytics: A free web analytics service that tracks and reports website traffic, providing insights into user behavior.Google Business Profile (formerly Google My Business): A free tool from Google that helps businesses manage their online presence across Google, including Search and Maps.Google Developers: A platform for developers to learn about and use Google technologies.Google Search Central (formerly Google Webmasters): A resource provided by Google for website owners to improve their site's visibility in Google Search.Google Search Console: A free web service by Google that helps website owners monitor their site's performance in Google Search results and troubleshoot issues.HHigh Volume Searches: Refers to keywords that are searched for a large number of times by users.HTML (HyperText Markup Language): The standard markup language for documents designed to be displayed in a web browser, forming the readable text and links on a webpage.HTTPS (Hypertext Transfer Protocol Secure): A secure version of HTTP, the protocol over which data is sent between your browser and the website. Indicated by a padlock icon in the browser.IIndexable Content: Content that search engines can discover, read, and add to their index.International Business: A classification of a business based on its geographic operational scope being global.KKeyword Research: The process of finding and analyzing actual search terms that people use to find information.Keywords (for LinkedIn Newsletter): Important words or phrases in the title that help the newsletter rank in search results.LLLM Refs: A platform mentioned for AI-related search insights, particularly with Search Console and analytics.Local Business: A classification of a business based on its geographic operational scope being a specific town or city.Long-tail Keywords: Specific, longer keyword phrases that typically have lower search volume but higher conversion rates.Low Volume Searches: Refers to keywords that are searched for a small number of times by users.MMeta Tag/Meta Data: Hidden elements in a webpage's HTML that provide search engines with information about the page.Metadata (for video): Information about a video file, such as title, description, tags, and timestamps, that helps search engines understand and rank it.Mindset/Toolset/Skillset: Three crucial "sets" for business success, emphasizing mental approach, available resources, and learned abilities.Mobile-first Design: Designing websites primarily for mobile devices, given that a large percentage of web traffic comes from smartphones and tablets.MP4 File Name Convention: The naming structure of a video file, which can impact its discoverability if not optimized with keywords.NNational Business: A classification of a business based on its geographic operational scope being an entire country.PPixels (Meta, Pinterest, Google, TikTok): Small pieces of code placed on a website to track user behavior, conversions, and build audience lists for advertising.Podcast Distribution: The process of making a podcast available on various platforms (Apple, Spotify, iHeart, Pandora).Post-purchase: Refers to the stage of a customer's journey after they have made a purchase.Pre-purchase: Refers to the stage of a customer's journey before they make a purchase, influencing the type of content they seek.Protect, Earn, Scale (PES): A three-piece business model emphasizing security, credibility, and growth.QQuota on Google: A limit on the number of links (e.g., 10 per 24 hours) that can be submitted to Google for indexing.RRegional Business: A classification of a business based on its geographic operational scope being a specific area or state.Rookie Mistake: A common error made by beginners.RSS (Really Simple Syndication): A web feed format used to publish frequently updated works—such as blog entries, news headlines, audio, and video—in a standardized format.SSEO (Search Engine Optimization): The process of optimizing a website to rank higher in search engine results, thereby increasing organic (unpaid) traffic.Sitemap (XML file): A file where you provide information about the pages, videos, and other files on your site. Search engines read this file to crawl your site more efficiently.Source: The origin of information or content.SSL (Secure Sockets Layer): A standard security technology for establishing an encrypted link between a web server and a browser, ensuring data remains private. (Often referred to interchangeably with HTTPS).TTechnical SEO: Optimizing the technical aspects of a website (e.g., speed, mobile-friendliness, crawlability) to improve its search engine rankings.Top of Funnel: The stage in the customer journey where content aims for broad awareness.Topical Pillars/Clusters: A content strategy where a broad "pillar" topic is supported by multiple "cluster" content pieces that delve into specific subtopics.UURL (Uniform Resource Locator): The address of a resource on the internet, such as a webpage.UTM Parameters (Urchin Tracking Module): Tags added to a URL to track the effectiveness of online marketing campaigns.WWeb Page: A single document on the internet, typically in HTML format.Web Link: The address (URL) that points to a specific web page or resource.Website: A collection of interconnected web pages under a single domain name.XXML (eXtensible Markup Language): A markup language that defines a set of rules for encoding documents in a format that is both human-readable and machine-readable, commonly used for sitemaps.YYoast/RankMath/All-in-One SEO: Popular WordPress plugins that assist with SEO tasks, including sitemap generation.Digital Marketing SEO Resources:>> Join our exclusive SEO Marketing community>> Read SEO Articles>> Need SEO Services? Book a Complimentary SEO Discovery Call with Favour Obasi-Ike>> Subscribe to the We Don't PLAY PodcastBrands We Love and SupportDiscover Vegan-based Luxury Experiences | Loving Me Beauty Beauty ProductsSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
The ROI Power of SEO Blogging: Time, Money, and Energy Explained with Favour Obasi-Ike | Get exclusive SEO newsletters in your inbox.In this episode, we explain the Return on Investment (ROI) of blogging for businesses, emphasizing the long-term benefits in time, money, and energy highlighting that blogging, even using AI for content creation with human refinement, significantly boosts online visibility and authority by answering frequently asked questions. Key strategies include optimizing content with keywords for search engines, updating older posts, and repurposing existing content from platforms like Clubhouse as blog posts or podcast episodes to maximize reach. The conversation also touches on the importance of creating an author profile for credibility and using search operators to understand market positioning, ultimately asserting that consistent, relevant content creation is crucial for organic growth and sustained business presence.Next Steps for Digital Marketing + SEO Services:>> Need SEO Services? Book a Complimentary SEO Discovery Call with Favour Obasi-Ike>> Need more information? Visit our Work and PLAY Entertainment website to learn about our digital marketing services.FAQs on Blogging ROI and Digital Authority in the AI Age1. What is the fundamental concept behind the ROI of blogging?The Return on Investment (ROI) of blogging is viewed through three core ingredients: time, money, and energy. While many associate ROI primarily with monetary gain, the discussion emphasizes the long-term benefits and efficiency blogging can bring to a business. The idea is that a focused investment of these three resources into blogging can lead to significant and sustained positive outcomes, even if the initial outlay seems small. The goal is to maximize the impact of content creation by strategically using these ingredients, ultimately leading to increased visibility, authority, and potential for passive income.2. How can I determine if blogging is a worthwhile strategy for my business or industry?A practical method to assess the relevance of blogging for your business is to use Google search operators. By typing "blog / [your topic]" (e.g., "blog / social media tips" or "blog / how to cook chicken") into Google, you can see existing blogs that cover your intended subject matter. This directly shows you what Google recognizes as relevant content in your niche, and whether your competitors are present. If you don't see your own website or content in these results, it indicates a missed opportunity and suggests that blogging could be a beneficial strategy to gain visibility and authority in your industry. Additionally, using "site:yourdomain.com [keyword]" can reveal if your existing content is being indexed for specific keywords.3. How does updating old blog content contribute to its ROI, especially in the context of AI?Updating older blog content is crucial for maintaining and enhancing its ROI. Search engines, particularly with the rise of AI, prioritize "last mod" (last modified) dates. This means that content that has been recently updated and republished is more likely to appear in search results. By updating existing blogs, you signal to search engines that your information is fresh and relevant, increasing its visibility and authority. This practice can double the efficiency of your initial time investment, as you're leveraging existing content to continue attracting traffic and engagement, rather than starting entirely from scratch with new articles.4. Can AI tools like ChatGPT be used to effectively create blog content, and what is the recommended best practice?Yes, AI tools like ChatGPT can be effectively used for blog content creation, but the best practice is to use them as a first draft or a starting point, rather than as the sole author. While AI can generate content, it's crucial for the blogger to "humanize" it, injecting their unique voice, insights, and brand personality. One participant even mentioned using AI to write content specifically for their local business and achieving top search rankings after humanizing it. The recommendation is to use AI to get content ideas, summaries, or even initial drafts, and then to personally refine and optimize it. This ensures that the content is not only informative but also authentic and engaging for the target audience.5. How can I leverage various online platforms (search engines, social media, AI answer engines) to maximize the reach of my blog content?To maximize the reach of your blog content across various platforms, a balanced strategy is recommended:Search Engines (Traditional): Use Google and Bing for traditional search visibility.Answer Engines (Voice Search): Consider how your content would be found via voice assistants like Siri, Alexa, or Google Assistant, which provide direct answers.AI Search Engines: Utilize platforms like ChatGPT, Perplexity, and Grok for AI-driven responses.By observing which brands consistently appear across all these platforms for a given topic, you can identify top authorities. Your goal is to become one such authority by consistently providing fresh, recent, and quick information. This involves writing extensive blog posts on your website (80% of your effort) and then leveraging social media (20% of your effort) to promote and build community around that content. People often discover information through search and then seek out the brand on social media, so a cohesive presence across all platforms is vital.6. What is the significance of an "author profile" in blogging for increasing online visibility and authority?An author profile attached to your blog posts significantly boosts your online visibility and authority. Most website platforms (WordPress, Wix, Squarespace, etc.) allow you to create an author profile for your published content. This profile typically includes links to your social media (LinkedIn, Facebook, X, etc.), creating a comprehensive digital footprint. Search engines and AI servers actively look for authors, profiles, and associated links, which helps them understand the context and credibility of your content. By presenting your blogs under a clear author profile (either your personal name or company name), you establish yourself or your brand as a recognized expert, increasing your chances of showing up for topical searches and building trust with your audience.7. How can I transform existing content, like podcast episodes or Clubhouse replays, into effective blog posts to drive traffic?Existing audio content, such as podcast episodes or Clubhouse replays, can be efficiently repurposed into blog posts to drive traffic. The process involves:Transcribing the audio: Use tools like Notebook LM (Google) or Descript to transcribe the audio into text.Extracting key information: From the transcription, identify frequently asked questions (FAQs) and summarize the main points.Humanizing and optimizing: Take the summary and use AI tools (like ChatGPT) to refine it into a comprehensive blog post. Crucially, humanize the AI-generated text to match your brand's voice.SEO Optimization: Incorporate relevant keywords into the blog post's title, body, and URL to improve searchability.Linking: Embed the audio (podcast or replay) within the blog post and link the blog post back to your website, social media, and any other relevant platforms.This strategy maximizes content that you've already invested time and energy into, effectively "killing two birds with one stone" by reaching both audio listeners and text readers, and creating a loop of traffic between different content formats.8. What is the "crawl budget" in relation to publishing multiple blog posts per day, and how does it affect content indexing?The "crawl budget" refers to the limit on how many new or updated links Google Search Console will process from your website each day. While you can publish an unlimited number of blogs on your own website (your "house"), Google has a quota, typically allowing you to submit around 10 links per day for indexing. This means that even if you publish 20 blogs in a day, only the first 10 submitted will likely be immediately logged and processed by Google's system within a 24-hour period. Each published post is logged with a precise date and time stamp (hours, minutes, seconds, milliseconds). Understanding the crawl budget is important for managing expectations regarding how quickly your new content will appear in search results and for strategically planning your publishing schedule if you aim for rapid indexing.Digital Marketing SEO Resources:>> Join our exclusive SEO Marketing community>> Read SEO Articles>> Need SEO Services? Book a Complimentary SEO Discovery Call with Favour Obasi-Ike>> Subscribe to the We Don't PLAY PodcastBrands We Love and SupportDiscover Vegan-based Luxury Experiences | Loving Me Beauty Beauty ProductsSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
SEO Secrets: Why Do Search Engines Rank Webpages Higher Than Others? with Favour Obasi-Ike) | Get exclusive SEO newsletters in your inbox.This discussion focuses on web page ranking and SEO strategies, particularly in the context of evolving search algorithms and AI. Favour highlighted the importance of domain authority and page authority, emphasizing that content needs to be contextual, comprehensive, and in multimedia formats to rank effectively. They discuss practical tools like Google Search Console and SEOGets for analyzing website data and improving rankings. Additionally, the conversation touches on the accelerated pace of content indexing due to social media and podcasts, suggesting that unique analysis and experience, especially through quotes and diverse content clusters, are crucial differentiators in a world saturated with AI-generated content.Next Steps for Digital Marketing + SEO Services:>> Need SEO Services? Book a Complimentary SEO Discovery Call with Favour Obasi-Ike>> Need more information? Visit our Work and PLAY Entertainment website to learn about our digital marketing services.FAQs on Elevating Web Page Ranking in the AI Era1. Why do some web pages rank highly on search engines while others don't?Web pages rank differently due to various factors that influence their visibility to search engine algorithms and users. Key reasons for higher rankings include strong domain authority, relevant and contextual content, the use of multimedia formats, and addressing user queries effectively. Conversely, pages may not rank well if their content is outdated, contains error messages or broken links, lacks credibility, or fails to provide the type of information users are actively seeking. Essentially, a page's ability to rank is a reflection of its usefulness, credibility, and technical optimization in the eyes of search engines.2. What is "domain authority" and why is it important for web page ranking?Domain authority refers to the credibility and trustworthiness of your entire website in the eyes of search engines. It's often represented by a score from 0 to 100, with a higher score indicating greater authority. A strong domain authority is crucial because it signals to search algorithms that your website is a reliable source of information. This trust is built through the credibility of your content and its context. A website with high domain authority can help its individual web pages rank more easily, even if a new page is just published, because the overarching trust established with Google (and other search engines) extends to all its content. Tools like Ahrefs can be used to check your website's domain authority.3. How do content pillars and content clusters contribute to a webpage's ranking?Content pillars and content clusters are strategic approaches to organizing your website's content to improve ranking. Content pillars are broad, foundational topics central to your business or niche. Content clusters are groups of related, more specific articles or pages that link back to a central pillar page. This structure creates a "roadmap" for both users and search engines, demonstrating a comprehensive understanding of a topic. By providing detailed, interconnected content around specific themes, you establish your website as an authoritative resource, allowing people to find you based on various related search queries, thus boosting your overall search visibility.4. How can multimedia and different content formats improve web page rankings?Incorporating multimedia and diverse content formats significantly enhances a web page's ranking potential. While basic text is important, pages that include elements like embedded YouTube videos, infographics, FAQs, pricing lists, and even quotes, offer a richer user experience. Videos, for example, generate captions (text within text), and podcasts can be transcribed, effectively creating "text to the power of three" (text, audio, video all contributing to textual content). This multi-format approach provides more context and content for algorithms to parse, caters to different learning preferences, and increases user engagement, signaling to search engines that the page is valuable and comprehensive.5. What role do search engines like Google Search Console play in optimizing web pages for ranking?Google Search Console (GSC) is a free and essential tool for website owners to monitor their site's performance in Google Search. It acts as the "internet service provider" for your website within Google's database. GSC provides valuable data on how users find your site, which queries they use, and how your pages are performing. By tracking queries, impressions, and clicks, you can identify what information people are seeking and then strategically create or refine content to address those needs. Submitting your sitemap and regularly checking GSC allows you to ensure your content is indexed, track its performance, and make informed decisions to improve rankings. Other search engines like Bing and Yandex also offer similar tools.6. How can an individual's unique analysis and experience differentiate their content in an AI-driven world?In an era where AI can rapidly generate vast amounts of content, unique analysis and personal experience have become paramount differentiators. While AI can produce factual information, it often lacks the nuanced insights, personal anecdotes, and real-world expertise that a human can provide. For instance, when discussing a topic like cooking eggs, an AI might list recipes, but a human can share their experience with different pan types or specific techniques that yield better results. Injecting your personal perspective, insights, and expert opinions into your content creates a level of authenticity and depth that generic, AI-generated content cannot replicate, making your pages more valuable and trustworthy to both users and search algorithms.7. What are some actionable strategies for improving web page rankings quickly today?The landscape of SEO has evolved, allowing for quicker ranking compared to a decade ago. Here are some actionable strategies:Utilize Google Search Console (GSC): Install GSC, analyze query and page data (potentially with tools like SEO Gets), and use AI to help create prompts for analyzing this data to build better web pages.Leverage Domain Authority: If you have a powerful website, new or revised content can rank faster due to Google's existing trust. Press releases can also help promote important content as news is a strong signal to search engines.Content Context & Clusters: Focus on creating contextual content around specific topics, using content pillars and clusters to cover subjects comprehensively.Multimedia Integration: Embed videos, infographics, and other visual or audio elements. Ensure these elements have accompanying text (captions, transcriptions).Answer User Queries (The 5 W's and 1 H): Create content that directly answers common questions people are asking, using the "who, what, when, where, why, and how" framework in your articles and URLs.Create "Tools" Content: Articles or pages about "tools" (free or paid) often attract significant traffic because users are actively seeking solutions.Consistency and Recurrence: Regularly update and create content, and don't be afraid to revisit and expand on successful topics over time.8. How has AI impacted the way web pages rank, and what does it mean for content creators?AI has significantly altered the ranking landscape. While traditional search engines (Google, Bing) remain crucial, AI search (like ChatGPT or Google Gemini) now plays a role in how information is discovered. For content creators, this means adapting to a system where "ranking" on AI might be more accurately described as "earning impressions" or "citations." AI models scrape data from existing online sources, so content that already ranks well on traditional search engines is more likely to be cited by AI.This emphasizes the importance of:Traditional SEO Foundations: Continue to optimize for Google and other search engines, as they remain the primary data source for many AI models.Clarity and Intent: Create content that directly answers user questions in a clear, structured manner, as AI prioritizes direct answers.Attribution and Sourcing: Ensure your content is authoritative and properly attributed, so AI tools can confidently cite your work.Podcasts as a Ranking Tool: Podcasts, with their associated show notes and transcripts, are becoming a powerful way to rank quickly on both traditional and AI-driven searches, as they offer rich, contextual audio and text.Digital Marketing SEO Resources:>> Read SEO Articles>> Subscribe to the We Don't PLAY PodcastSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
What Are the Best Blogging and Publishing SEO Practices for New or Established Websites? (Digital Marketing Masterclass with Favour Obasi-Ike) | Get exclusive SEO newsletters in your inbox.This marketing discussion from Clubhouse audio centers on Search Engine Optimization (SEO) and its role in online business growth, particularly through blog content. It emphasizes that SEO is more than just ranking; it's a consistent strategy for online visibility. Favour Obasi-Ike recommends publishing blog posts regularly, suggesting one to two per week for new businesses and three to four for established ones, while also stressing the importance of updating older content to maintain relevance and a competitive edge. Furthermore, the conversation highlights the significance of structured data, diverse content formats (text, audio, video), and distributing content across various platforms to maximize reach and engagement, ultimately leading to organic traffic and reduced advertising costs.FAQs on SEO Content Strategy for Online GrowthHow often should a new website publish blog posts for SEO?For a new website just starting out and building momentum, it's recommended to publish one to two blog posts per week. This approach allows a new business or solopreneur to establish a consistent online presence without feeling overwhelmed. Publishing once a week translates to 52 new web links annually, which can significantly contribute to a website's visibility on search engines like Google, ChatGPT, and Bing. This frequency is considered a "gear one to gear three" strategy, focusing on foundational content and answering common customer questions.What is the recommended blog post frequency for established businesses aiming for accelerated growth?Established businesses looking to drive fast and significantly boost their SEO should aim to publish anywhere from three to four times a week. This higher frequency, referred to as moving from "gear one to gear five," is for businesses with the resources to create consistent, high-quality content. The more frequently new and updated content is published, the faster search engines like Google understand the website's relevance and authority, leading to improved rankings and increased organic traffic.Beyond initial publication, how important is updating old blog posts for SEO?Updating old blog posts is crucial for maintaining SEO relevance and extending the lifespan of your content. Every time an article is updated (given a "last modified" date), it resets its 24-month relevance cycle with search engines. This combats "content decay," where older, un-updated articles lose visibility to newer, more recent information on the same topic. Best practices suggest updating content monthly or at least quarterly. Updates can include adding FAQs, recent statistics, use cases, quotes, videos, or other rich media. This consistent updating signals to search engines that your content remains current, practical, and authoritative, improving its chances of ranking higher and for longer.What are the "three levels" of showing up online that are critical for SEO?The three critical levels for showing up online in a systematic and structural way are:Website: This is the overall digital presence, providing the "full platter" of your brand and offerings.Web Page: This refers to individual pages within the website that contain specific content. It's the "content of the website."Web Link (Blog Post/Article): These are the individual pieces of content that provide access to the specific information on a web page. They serve as "leading tools" for growth and are the primary way people find content on search engines. These three layers must work together, much like the components of a burger or sandwich, for effective online visibility.How do search engines evaluate content, and what role does "structured data" play?Search engines evaluate content by reading both the visible text (HTML) and the underlying script (XML). To rank effectively, content needs to be presented as "structured data," which goes beyond just getting a raw response from an AI tool. Structured data includes elements like headings, titles, metadata, schema markup, internal and external links, images with alt text, and other organizational components. These elements help search engines understand the context, relevance, and relationships within your content, making it easier for them to index and rank your pages for relevant queries. Search engines, including AI platforms like ChatGPT, scan the top 20 Google results for relevance, recency, and practicality, aligning with Google's E-E-A-T (Experience, Expertise, Authority, and Trust) guidelines.How can businesses maximize the reach and impact of their blog content beyond just publishing it on their website?To maximize reach, blog content should be actively distributed across various platforms, treating each blog post as a valuable piece of intellectual property. This includes:Email lists: Sending new blog posts to subscribers.Social Media: Sharing content on platforms like YouTube (as video), X (formerly Twitter), Reddit, Pinterest, and Threads.Content Repurposing: Transforming blog posts into videos, podcasts, infographics, or other formats to suit different platforms and audience preferences.Connecting with other content: For instance, ensuring every podcast episode has a corresponding blog post to appear on Google.This multi-channel approach leverages both search (people actively looking for information) and social (content being discovered in feeds) to drive traffic and engagement, increasing the chances of content being seen and resonated with.What is the impact of regularly updating website content on search engine understanding and overall business value?Regularly updating website content, particularly blog posts, significantly enhances search engine understanding of your business and its offerings. The more often you update your content, the more thoroughly Google and other search engines comprehend your topics, expertise, and relevance. This consistent engagement builds trust and authority. Furthermore, the content on your website contributes directly to its intellectual property and overall business value. Just as renovating a house adds value, adding and updating content to your domain increases its worth, making it a more attractive asset for potential scaling or sale. A diverse range of well-optimized content allows your website to "tackle different channels" and answer a broader spectrum of user questions, akin to a television offering many channels.What are common pitfalls to avoid when creating content for SEO, especially regarding AI tools?A major pitfall to avoid is simply copying and pasting content generated by AI tools like ChatGPT without further refinement. While AI can be useful for gathering information or suggesting ideas, the output is often "unstructured data." Directly using such content can lead to penalties from search engines because it may regurgitate information already available elsewhere, lacking originality, structure, and the human touch that builds E-E-A-T. Instead, AI tools should be used strategically:Restructuring: Use AI to rewrite content in a specific style (e.g., lifestyle blog, third-person with quotes and attributions).Idea Generation: Obtain content ideas or initial drafts.Enhancement: Incorporate AI-generated elements after thorough review and integration into your structured format.The goal is to transform unstructured AI output into well-structured, original, and valuable content that resonates with both human readers and search engine algorithms.Digital Marketing SEO Resources:>> Join our exclusive SEO Marketing community>> Read SEO Articles>> Need SEO Services? Book a Complimentary SEO Discovery Call with Favour Obasi-Ike>> Subscribe to the We Don't PLAY PodcastBrands We Love and SupportDiscover Vegan-based Luxury Experiences | Loving Me Beauty Beauty ProductsSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
SEO Services Edition: Is SEO "Dead" in 2025? Who Knows? (Case Studies, Testimonials, and Ultimate Guide with Favour Obasi-Ike) | Get exclusive SEO newsletters in your inbox.Favour Obasi-Ike presents an engaging and conversational discussion that emphatically argues for the continued relevance of Search Engine Optimization (SEO) in 2025 and beyond, directly refuting the idea that SEO is "dead."Favour Obasi-Ike, joined by other marketing professionals (with a guest LIVE! audio testimonial), highlights that SEO is foundational for online visibility across various platforms, including traditional search engines and AI-driven systems like ChatGPT. The dialogue stresses the importance of consistent content creation, strategic updates, and a holistic approach to online presence, emphasizing that SEO is not merely about keywords but about understanding user intent and providing valuable, well-structured information.Favour Obasi-Ike illustrates these points with practical examples and case studies, demonstrating how effective SEO can significantly boost website traffic, lead generation, and overall business growth by ensuring content is discoverable and impactful. The discussion ultimately positions SEO as a continuous, essential investment that underpins all successful digital marketing efforts.Next Steps for Digital Marketing + SEO Services:>> Need SEO Services? Book a Complimentary SEO Discovery Call with Favour Obasi-Ike>> Need more information? Visit our Work and PLAY Entertainment website to learn about our digital marketing services.FAQs about the Is SEO "Dead" in 2025? Who Knows? Episode:1. Is SEO dead in 2025?No, SEO is not dead in 2025; in fact, it's more vital than ever. The perception that SEO might be obsolete often stems from a misunderstanding of what it truly encompasses. Search Engine Optimization (SEO) is fundamentally about being discoverable online. With 8.2 billion people in the world and 1.1 billion websites, and an astounding 8 to 16 billion daily searches on Google alone (with 15% being new searches every day), the act of searching for information is constant and growing.The conversation clarifies that "SEO" isn't limited to traditional search engines like Google. Platforms such as ChatGPT, Google, Reddit, TikTok, LinkedIn, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube all function as "search engines" where content needs to be optimized to be found. Therefore, anything you do to increase your visibility on these platforms is a form of SEO. The speaker emphasizes that fancy new terms like GEO, AEO, AIO, or SXO are just "cosmetics" for the same underlying principle: making your content discoverable. The core idea is that if you're not focusing on SEO, you're missing out on crucial opportunities for people to find your website and business.2. How has AI impacted SEO, and does it replace traditional SEO efforts?AI does not replace traditional SEO; instead, it exposes and adds structure to it. AI tools and platforms like ChatGPT, Alexa, Siri, Grock, Deepseek, Meta AI, Cloud, Perplexity, and Gemini rely on information from existing traditional platforms and servers. This means that to be found by AI search engines, your content first needs to be optimized and present on these traditional sources (like Google, Bing, Yandex, etc.).The speaker highlights that AI search engines respond based on information given from a "source." If you are not optimizing your original content and website (the "source"), you cannot become a "resource" for AI. AI is looking for well-structured, authoritative content with clear brand citations and links. Having duplicate profiles or unverified business claims on platforms like LinkedIn, for example, can negatively impact how AI (and traditional search engines) perceive your online presence, making it harder for your business to be recognized and recommended. Essentially, AI leverages and amplifies the importance of a robust, well-optimized online foundation.3. What are the key elements for a strong online presence in 2025, beyond just keywords?In 2025, a strong online presence moves beyond solely focusing on keywords to prioritizing conversations, user experience, and a holistic, structured approach to content. Key elements include:Content with Purpose: Focus on "who are you talking to? Who are you serving? Why are you showing up?" Your content should address specific questions and needs, aiming for positive, neutral, or negative sentiment analysis from AI.Continuous Optimization: SEO is not a one-time fix. Websites and content need regular updates. Blogs, for instance, have a *24-month cycle*, meaning consistent updates are crucial to maintain visibility. The "last modified" timestamp is vital for algorithms.Structured Content: Turn unstructured content (like a simple blog post) into structured articles with headings, internal/external links, embedded scripts, iframes, tables, infographics, FAQs, quotes, images, alt text, and schema (microdata/rich snippets). This makes it more digestible for both humans and search engines.Platform Integration & Tokenization: Your website should be connected to all relevant online platforms (Instagram, LinkedIn, YouTube, podcasts, etc.). When a page is updated, it gets "tokenized" (duplicated) across various search engines and platforms (Google, Yahoo, DuckDuckGo, Brave, Bing, ChatGPT). This ensures wide distribution and recognition.Google Search Console: This is paramount. Connecting your website to Google Search Console is the "internet service provider of Google" and allows you to track impressions, clicks, and positions, providing crucial data on your marketing efforts.E-E-A-T (Experience, Expertise, Authoritativeness, Trustworthiness): Google's guideline emphasizes providing the best user experience. This means creating a well-structured, intentional, and high-quality online presence that builds trust and authority.4. Why is continuous content creation and updating crucial for SEO?Continuous content creation and updating are crucial because SEO is an ongoing process, not a one-time task. Websites need "oil changes" and "tire alignments" through new articles, blogs, and updates to remain healthy and high-performing for algorithms.Key reasons include:Content Decay: Blogs have a *24-month active cycle*. If content isn't updated within three years, its chances of sustaining visibility become slim, even with good initial content. The "last modified" timestamp on your content signals freshness and relevance to search engines.Algorithm Recognition: Search engines and AI prioritize active, recent, and updated information. Consistent updates help algorithms recognize your website as a continuously relevant and valuable source, leading to better rankings.Meeting Evolving Search Needs: Search volumes and user needs change with seasons, holidays, and emerging trends. Regularly updated content allows your business to align with these evolving search patterns.Increased Impressions and Authority: Consistently producing and updating 52 pieces of content a year can significantly boost your website's impressions and domain authority. This demonstrates expertise and a sustained commitment to providing value.Audience Retention: A continuous flow of valuable, updated content helps build an "attention map"that fosters a "retention curve," keeping your audience engaged and returning.5. How can businesses leverage diverse online platforms for SEO, and what's the role of podcasting?Businesses should leverage diverse online platforms by connecting their website as a central hub to all their social media, content, and directory listings. This creates a structured pathway for discovery and builds authority. The speaker emphasizes that platforms like LinkedIn, YouTube, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Reddit are all search engines in their own right.Podcasting is highlighted as an exceptionally powerful tool for several reasons:Know, Like, and Trust Factor: Podcasting is described as the fastest way for someone to "know, like, and trust" you, as it allows for a deeper, more personal connection through voice.Authoritative Content: Like blogs and books, podcasts have an author, contributing to your overall "dominant authority online."Wide Distribution and Citation: Podcasts are distributed across *30-40+ stations* (Spotify, Apple, Pandora, iHeart, Podcast Addict, Alexa), each acting as a resource. When AI (like ChatGPT) or other search engines cite a podcast link, it directly mentions your content and business.Content Repurposing: Turning podcast episodes into topical blogs (show notes with hypertext links) auto-indexes your content through servers, further increasing visibility across traditional and AI search engines.Organic Lead Generation: Podcasting can organically attract clients without needing paid ads. As demonstrated by a client who gained clients from Google and ChatGPT after starting a podcast, it builds authority that leads to organic discovery and trust.Niche-Based Search: Podcasting allows for highly niche-based content, meaning if you show up consistently, algorithms will rank and refer you to people specifically looking for your expertise.By integrating podcasts with other platforms (website, social media, email lists) and consistently producing valuable content, businesses can significantly expand their reach and establish strong online authority.6. What is the significance of "tokenization" and the "last modified" date for online content?"Tokenization" refers to the process where, every time you update or "last modify" a page on your website, that page is essentially duplicated or recognized as an individual entity that can be shown on various web platforms and search engines. For example, if your website is updated, that updated content can then appear on Google, Yahoo, DuckDuckGo, Brave, Bing, and even AI platforms like ChatGPT.The "last modified" date is a crucial signal to algorithms. Just like your phone updates its software regularly, your website content needs consistent updates. If a blog post, for instance, was published in 2022 and hasn't been updated by September 2025, the algorithm recognizes this lack of recent activity. While it might still appear online if there's no competition, its chances of sustaining visibility are slim. A recent "last modified" date indicates to search engines that the content is fresh, relevant, and actively maintained, increasing its likelihood of being found and ranked. This continuous "tokenization" of updated content across the web amplifies your digital footprint and authority.7. What is the speaker's definition of "future" and how does it relate to SEO?The speaker defines "future" based on its Latin origin, "futurist," meaning "to grow or become," and its dictionary definition as "the time or a period of time following the moment of speaking or writing; time regarded as still to come."This definition directly relates to SEO by emphasizing that every piece of content you create – whether speaking on a podcast or writing a blog post – is an act of "speaking or writing into the future." It's a proactive planning project where your current efforts manifest over time. Just as one plans to build a house with a blueprint, SEO involves strategic planning and consistent execution. Answering questions in the form of web links or podcast episodes serves as a long-term investment. The way you answer one question can lead to several more, creating a continuous flow of engagement and discovery. By actively creating content now, businesses are building an online presence that will continually attract users in the "time still to come," ensuring sustained growth and visibility.8. What essential steps should a business take to start or improve its SEO strategy, especially when seeking professional help?To effectively start or improve an SEO strategy, especially when seeking professional help, a business should take several essential steps:Establish a Foundational Online Presence: The absolute first step is to have a website, or at minimum, a domain name. A website acts as the "anchor" for your business online. Without one, you lack a central hub for discoverability and tracking.Connect to Google Search Console: This is non-negotiable. Google Search Console is the "internet service provider of Google" and allows you to track critical data like impressions, clicks, and positions, which are vital for understanding and proving SEO effectiveness.Define Goals and Strategy: Before engaging with an expert, have a clear understanding of your business goals. If you don't have an SEO strategy, bring your business plan, and a professional can help build one from there. This includes understanding who you are talking to, who you are serving, and why you are showing up.Understand Investment Levels: Be prepared for an investment. While specific figures are mentioned (starting around *$1,500/quarter*), the key is to recognize that SEO is a continuous investment, not a one-time expense, and it offers long-term gains.Prioritize Content Creation for Search Engines (and then humans): As advised, "write everything for search engines, not for you." Focus on creating content that aligns with how algorithms discover and present information. This indirectly means writing for humans as well, as search engines aim to serve relevant and valuable content to users.Embrace Multi-Platform Content: Create diverse content forms (blogs, podcasts, videos, social media posts) that answer common questions people are asking. Distribute this content across relevant platforms, ensuring interconnections (e.g., website links in podcast show notes).Be Intentional and Consistent: SEO requires active, consistent effort. Dedicate time weekly (e.g., 45 minutes a day for 45 days) or invest in professional management to consistently update and optimize your online presence. This consistency builds authority and ensures you're actively engaging with algorithms.Prepare for a Consultation: When booking a call with an SEO expert, be ready to discuss your website, business plan, and specific goals. Professionals will often audit your website, provide insights via Loom videos, and offer structured plans (quarterly, biannually, or annually) with clear communication (e.g., weekly recorded calls).Digital Marketing SEO Resources:>> Read SEO Articles>> Subscribe to the We Don't PLAY PodcastSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
What are the Biggest SEO Mistakes Killing Your Website Rankings? Learn with Favour Obasi-Ike | Get exclusive SEO newsletters in your inbox.This audio from a Clubhouse audio Marketing Club discussion explores common SEO mistakes that hinder website rankings and offers strategies for improvement. Favour emphasizes the critical importance of a professional website for business legitimacy and online visibility, particularly for search engines and AI models. We discuss the long-term nature of organic SEO versus the immediate, but often less effective, impact of short-term ad campaigns, especially when a strong web presence isn't established. Practical advice includes optimizing website content, titles, and technical elements like Google Search Console integration, along with leveraging platforms like Pinterest for targeted advertising and understanding the interconnectedness of online presence across various digital channels.FAQs1. Why is having a website considered crucial for any business today?Having a website is no longer optional; it's a foundational requirement for any legitimate business. Without one, you're essentially invisible to potential customers and search engines. Someone emphasizes, "if I can't find you, I can't pay you." A website acts as your intellectual property, your online home, and the primary place where people will seek to understand and connect with your business. It establishes credibility, allows for tracking and analysis of customer interactions, and serves as the central hub for all your online presence, from social media to search engine results.2. What are some common SEO mistakes that can severely impact website rankings?Several major SEO mistakes can "kill your rankings." One prevalent issue is a lack of consistent content creation and updates. Simply posting a blog and forgetting about it is a thing of the past; sites need regular fresh content to be reindexed by search engines. Another critical error is improper page titling; many focus on what they want to say rather than what people are actually searching for. Beyond content, neglecting to connect your website to Google Search Console is a significant oversight, as it prevents Google from effectively seeing and indexing your site. Building a visually appealing website that isn't optimized for search engines is like having a beautiful house with no address—it won't be found.3. How does the concept of "patience is a virtue" apply to achieving high search engine rankings?Achieving high organic search rankings is a long-term game that requires significant patience and consistent effort. Unlike paid advertising, organic growth takes time to build momentum. Trying to rank for highly competitive terms like "Black Friday 2025" in just two months with organic strategies is unrealistic, especially when competing against businesses that have invested years. The analogy of waiting for a tree to germinate highlights that genuine growth requires consistent "watering" and care over an extended period. Focusing on building an audience and consistent content creation will lead to surprising and predictable growth over time.4. What are the key components of a "real business" online, beyond just a website?Beyond having a basic website, a "real business" online needs several elements to establish legitimacy and foster trust. This includes having an LLC or being registered with the secretary of state. The website itself should have an address in the footer, ideally hyperlinked to Google Maps, to provide location signals to search engines and potential customers. Furthermore, a business needs to actively manage its online presence across various platforms (LinkedIn, Google Business Profile, social media) and ensure that its website is connected to analytics tools like Google Search Console and Microsoft Clarity for tracking user behavior. Investing in professional branding, including a well-designed logo and a clear customer journey, also signals a serious and committed business.5. How can businesses leverage AI chatbots and other interactive elements to improve website conversions?AI conversational chatbots can significantly boost website conversions, with reported increases between 20% to 33%. These tools act as virtual assistants, guiding visitors and providing immediate support, similar to an in-person store assistant. By engaging users through pop-ups, chatbots, or other calls to action, businesses can prevent visitors from leaving confused or unable to find what they need. The goal is to turn passive viewers into active participants, ensuring they take action and ideally return to the site.6. What role do citations and backlinks play in boosting a website's authority and visibility?Citations and backlinks are crucial for increasing a website's domain authority and visibility. When other reputable platforms like Reddit, Wikipedia, YouTube, or various social media sites link back to your website, it signals to search engines that your content is valuable and credible. The more high-quality referrals your website receives from diverse sources, the higher its perceived authority. This interconnectedness is essential; as one speaker noted, "everything is connected or it's interconnected." This also highlights the importance of connecting your website to platforms like Reddit, as AI mentions can link back to your site from relevant subreddits.7. How does local SEO, particularly through address and zip code targeting, impact search rankings and advertising efforts?Including a physical address in your website's footer, especially when hyperlinked to Google Maps, significantly impacts local SEO. Search algorithms use this information to filter your business within local search results, as users often have their location services enabled. This creates a "signal within your community" and helps your business appear on local maps and in geographically targeted searches. When combined with targeted advertising, such as running Pinterest ads to specific zip codes, businesses can reach highly relevant local audiences. This precision allows for efficient ad spending and higher conversion rates, especially for businesses with defined service areas.8. What is the distinction between SEO (Search Engine Optimization) and newer terms like GEO (Generative Engine Optimization) or AEO (Answer Engine Optimization)?While new terms like GEO (Generative Engine Optimization) and AEO (Answer Engine Optimization) are emerging, the core principle remains "search everywhere optimization." These new terms essentially describe the application of SEO principles to different types of search platforms, including generative AI models like ChatGPT or answer engines. The fundamental requirement for showing up on any of these platforms is still a website with well-structured, informative content that you own. Think of SEO as your "boarding pass" to any "plane" (GEO/AEO/AI platform). Without a website that is indexed and providing the right source feedback to these systems, your information cannot be found, regardless of the specific engine or model being used.Digital Marketing SEO Resources:>> Join our exclusive SEO Marketing community>> SEO Optimization Blogs>> Book a Complimentary SEO Discovery Call with Favour Obasi-Ike>> Subscribe to the We Don't PLAY PodcastBrands We Love and SupportLoving Me Beauty | Buy Vegan-based Luxury ProductsUnlock your future in real estate—get certified in Ghana today!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Meet Julie Lokun, the founder of The MediaCasters and Cre8tive Con. This discussion centers on the importance of authentic networking, emphasizing in-person connections and genuine follow-up over superficial interactions. Julie Lokun and Favour Obasi-Ike highlight the value of self-awareness in professional settings, distinguishing between introvert and extrovert networking styles, and the significance of building relationships based on trust and mutual support. They also address the practicalities of establishing and safeguarding a business, advising listeners on due diligence and surrounding themselves with a supportive team.FAQ about this episode on event networking?1. What are the key elements of effective personal and professional branding?Effective personal and professional branding is crucial for successful networking and overall career growth. It involves understanding how you present yourself to the world and how others perceive you. This includes your online presence, your demeanor in person, and the consistency of your message. A strong brand is authentic, clearly communicates your vision, and resonates with your audience. The "Cold Play concert" example highlights the potential for public incidents to drastically impact one's brand, emphasizing the importance of being mindful of your actions both publicly and privately.2. Why is follow-up considered the most important and often overlooked aspect of networking?Follow-up is paramount in networking because it transforms initial encounters into meaningful connections. Many people neglect this step, leading to superficial interactions that don't yield results. The hosts emphasize that if a follow-up doesn't happen, it might indicate a lack of genuine connection or interest sparked during the initial conversation. Effective follow-up isn't just about sending an email; it's about actively listening during the initial interaction, identifying how you can offer value, and making a memorable impression that encourages the other person to want to connect further.3. How can individuals move beyond superficial networking and build deeper, more valuable relationships?Building deeper connections goes beyond exchanging business cards. It requires being genuinely interested in others rather than solely focusing on self-promotion. Asking insightful questions, actively listening, and identifying ways to connect people with others in your network are powerful strategies. This approach fosters a sense of "know, like, and trust," which is the foundation of any strong relationship, whether personal or professional. By focusing on creating value for others, individuals can build a robust network that extends beyond fleeting encounters.4. What are the differences between introverts, extroverts, and ambiverts in a networking context, and how can each type succeed?The discussion highlights that introversion, extroversion, and ambiversion relate to how individuals manage their energy, not necessarily their shyness or confidence. Extroverts gain energy from social interaction, while introverts' energy can be depleted by large groups. Ambiverts exhibit a mix of both. For introverts, pacing themselves, choosing events they are passionate about, and potentially having a "sherpa" or partner can make networking more manageable. Extroverts need to be mindful of not overwhelming others and tailoring their approach. Self-awareness is key for all, allowing individuals to navigate networking spaces effectively by understanding and managing their own energy levels.5. What is the vision and purpose behind Creative Con, and what does it offer attendees?Creative Con was born from the desire to create a live event that elevates the voices of powerful entrepreneurs. The founder, Julie Lokun, aimed to provide a stage for individuals who are changing the world through their businesses, books, and media presence. Creative Con is designed to be a transformative experience where attendees can build meaningful connections, be surprised and delighted by the program, and leave as a "different, better version" of themselves. It emphasizes collaboration, learning, and fostering a supportive ecosystem for entrepreneurs.6. What is the ideal balance between speaking and listening during networking events?The hosts strongly suggest a 70/30 split: listening 70% of the time and speaking 30%. The rationale is that if people are truly interested in what you have to say, they will ask you questions. This approach emphasizes curiosity and humility over self-promotion. By listening more, you gain a deeper understanding of others' needs and can identify opportunities to provide value, leading to more profound connections. The only exception is if you are a paid keynote speaker, in which case speaking 100% of the time is appropriate.7. What is the future of networking, especially in an era of AI and digital communication?Despite the rise of AI and digital platforms, the hosts firmly believe that the most powerful networking will always be done "IRL" (in real life). While online tools like Clubhouse, Roam, and Zoom have their place, nothing replaces the ability to look someone in the eye, feel their energy, and experience their genuine presence. In-person connections foster sincerity, build "know, like, and trust" more effectively, and are crucial for vetting potential partners. The effort required for in-person networking pays off in dividends, as it builds more robust and authentic relationships.8. What essential advice is offered for entrepreneurs and individuals navigating business relationships and personal growth?Several pieces of advice are offered for success in both business and personal growth. Firstly, "be a good human" and act with integrity and strong morals. Secondly, entrepreneurs should surround themselves with a trusted team or "anchors" who can offer diverse perspectives and help them make sound decisions, especially when entering into contracts. Always trust your gut instinct, but also do your due diligence by researching potential partners and ensuring their business practices are legitimate. Don't be afraid to ask for mentorship or assistance, as genuine people will often recognize and respond to sincerity. Lastly, embrace an authentic self, be consistent, work hard, and don't expect easy shortcuts.Access our Digital Marketing SEO Resources:>> Join our exclusive SEO Marketing community>> SEO Optimization Blogs>> Book a Complimentary SEO Discovery Call with Favour Obasi-Ike>> Subscribe to the We Don't PLAY PodcastBrands We Love and SupportLoving Me Beauty | Buy Vegan-based Luxury ProductsUnlock your future in real estate—get certified in Ghana today!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Send us a textYou've got questions about Pinterest—and I've got answers. In this episode, I'm answering the 25 most common Pinterest marketing questions I get from clients, students, and DMs.If you're a service provider trying to turn Pinterest into a traffic-driving, lead-generating machine (without the stress), you'll love this one. We're covering everything from strategy and scheduling to SEO, analytics, and whether or not you even need a blog.Let's make Pinterest easy, doable, and—yes—fun.Shownotes: https://jenvazquez.com/25-pinterest-marketing-answers/You don't need to post daily, be on every platform, or chase the algorithm to stay visible.That hustle? Exhausting and unnecessary.What if one piece of content could fuel your visibility for weeks... even months?That's exactly what I'm teaching in my FREE Pinterest Visibility Masterclass.✨ Save your seat—it's free!
Are you ready to start selling digital products but unsure what kinds will actually make money? You're not alone. One of the biggest questions creators, bloggers, and coaches ask is: “What should I sell?” In this post, I'm breaking down the five most profitable digital product niches in 2025, based on real data from creators using MiloTree. These aren't guesses. As co-founder of MiloTree, I get a behind-the-scenes look at what's working right now—and I'm sharing it with you. Show Notes: MiloTree AI Digital Product Generator Free Ebook Creation Prompts + Canva Template AI Email Freebie Prompt Generator Join The Blogger Genius Newsletter Become a Blogger Genius Facebook Group Subscribe to the Blogger Genius Podcast: YouTube iTunes Spotify And the best part? You don't need a huge following or tech skills to succeed. Especially if you use AI as your assistant—or your product.
Are your blog posts actually helping you get found online and attract new clients to your practice?In this episode of Marketing Your Private Practice, Kathy Colaiacovo shares the 10 essential elements every blog post needs to work as part of your marketing system. Most practice owners spend time writing helpful content but unknowingly miss key components that could help their blog do more than sit quietly on a website.You'll learn the single most overlooked element in private practice blog writing - and how adding it can turn casual readers into email subscribers, consult bookings, or even paying clients. Kathy also explains why simply writing a helpful article isn't enough if it's not optimized for search engines and structured for easy reading. And she reveals the one quiet strategy that can help your blog content sell your services without sounding salesy.Whether you're writing your first blog post or have dozens on your site already, this episode will help you spot what's missing and make small changes that lead to better results.If you want your blogs to actually bring in traffic, trust, and clients - you'll want to listen in.Plus, don't forget to grab the free 10-Point Blog Optimization Checklist mentioned in the episode to apply everything you hear.Listen now and start turning your blog into a lead-generating tool for your practice.Be sure to check out the resources mentioned on our show notes page at http://marketingyourprivatepractice.com/158, including the free copy of the checklist that goes with this lesson. Free checklist - https://academy.pepperitmarketing.com/blogchecklistClick here to send Kathy a text message about this Episode
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
If you're a blogger, coach, or creator, LinkedIn might seem like the last place you'd go to grow your business. Isn't it just for corporate jobs and stuffy networking? Not anymore. In my latest Blogger Genius Podcast episode, I interviewed LinkedIn expert Louise Brogan, and she opened my eyes: LinkedIn is a hidden goldmine for creators ready to stand out and sell. In this post, I'll break down why LinkedIn is your next big opportunity, how to get started the right way, and how to use tools like MiloTree to build your audience effortlessly. Show Notes: MiloTree FREEBIE: AI Prompt for 10 Product Ideas in Uncertain Times FREEBIE: 3 AI Prompts You Need to Create a Freebie Cheatsheet FREEBIE: 13 AI Prompts to Write an Ebook in Under 3 Hours Join The Blogger Genius Newsletter Become a Blogger Genius Facebook Group Louise Brogan Raise Your Visibility on LinkedIn Subscribe to the Blogger Genius Podcast: YouTube iTunes Spotify Why LinkedIn is the Hidden Opportunity You Can't Ignore Most bloggers and small business owners think LinkedIn is only for suits and corporate ladder climbers. But Louise shared a surprising truth: ✅ People on LinkedIn have money to spend — and they're looking for new hobbies, services, and products. ✅ Less competition — Only 2% of LinkedIn users post content! ✅ Engaged audiences — These aren't passive scrollers. LinkedIn users are more likely to buy, connect, and hire. If you've been hit hard by Google updates or you're frustrated with Instagram's algorithm, LinkedIn offers a fresh place to be seen and heard — especially if you're creative, independent, or selling digital products. How to Start Growing Your Business on LinkedIn You don't need to reinvent the wheel to succeed on LinkedIn. Here's Louise's simple, powerful strategy: 1. Optimize Your Profile Think of your LinkedIn profile as your storefront. Louise recommends making it immediately clear: Who you help How you help them What action you want them to take next (hint: link to your freebie, blog, or store) Pro Tip: Your profile should focus more on your audience's needs than your own resume. 2. Post Just Twice a Week Unlike Instagram or TikTok where you need to post daily, LinkedIn works best with just 1–2 posts a week. Some ideas: Share quick tips or advice related to your niche. Ask engaging questions that invite comments. Tell short stories that connect to your brand.
If you're looking for ways to grow your email list for fast, one strategy you may want to implement is guest email swaps—an easy, free, and effective way to collaborate with other bloggers and creators to increase your subscribers. And if you're looking for tips on how to do this successfully, you're in luck! In this episode of The Profitable Travel Blogger Podcast, we'll be going over a step-by-step strategy for using guest email swaps to grow your list and expand your reach. By the end of this episode, you'll understand: What a guest email swap is and how it works How to find the right bloggers to collaborate with A proven pitch template to make outreach easy Best practices for running a successful email swap Common mistakes to avoid to get the best results Bonus ideas for growing your email list through collaboration And more!
Want to learn how to grow your traffic with Google Discover? Well, you're in luck, as in this episode of The Profitable Travel Blogger Podcast, we'll be going over how to use Google Discover to grow your blog traffic! Our guest for the episode is travel blogger Laura Peters Abalos, who has been able to triple her organic blog readers by using Google Discover strategies. Today, she'll be sharing her best tips so you can do the same. By the end of this episode, you'll understand: The types of content that perform best on Google Discover How to optimize your blog posts to get picked up by Google Discover Tips for capitalizing on Google Discover traffic A step-by-step workflow for creating Google Discover content And more! In short, if you're looking for new ways to grow your blog traffic and get your content seen, you won't want to miss this episode!
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Send us a textWant to write blog content that ranks on Google and keeps readers engaged? In this video, we chat with content marketing expert Allison Verhalen about balancing SEO and engaging writing. Learn blogging best practices, keyword strategies, and how to drive more traffic to your website.
When you take the time to write an article - whether it's for your blog or a newsletter, like any private practice owner, you want to get the most out of the time you spent creating that marketing content. In this episode, we do a LIVE Review of a Blog that Juliana Sherriff, Jewels, wrote for her Wellness Journals business. In this free Marketing Review, we address the challenges Jewels faced with blog articles and newsletters that did not seem to be doing much for her. She wanted to enhance her content to attract more readers and increase sales of her journals and how to make her articles more effective and engaging.Listen in to learn the 3 key lessons shared that will optimize her Blog and Newsletter Articles. Importance of SEO in Content Creation and what to includes that turns your content into keyword-rich articles that help search engines find and rank your articles, increasing your visibility online.Ways to Optimize Your Blog Articles including formatting tips, using images effectively, and ensuring your content is structured for easy reading.What to do Differently with Calls to Action in Blogs and Newsletters - even if the content is exactly the same.If you're looking for ideas on how to get MORE out of your blogs and newsletters this episode offers lots of actionable tips and strategies as we go through Jewels' blog article. You will also discover one simple and surprising way formatting your newsletter can increase your open rates and have more people read that content. Access the resources from this episode, including the 10-point blog checklist on our show notes page at: http://marketingyourprivatepractice.com/133Book your own free Marketing Review - https://www.pepperitmarketing.com/review Click here to send Kathy a text message about this Episode
In episode 618, Megan chats to Nora Bourdeau about balancing a blog with other commitments, highlighting the significance of living one's "why" and the value of small, consistent actions to propel progress over time. Nora Bourdeau started Balancing Bowls in 2022 as a way to record her recipes and share them with friends and family. Balancing Bowls is the product of a slightly chaotic life, a need to make and grow things, and a love of creative cooking. While the blog has a flexitarian approach to cooking, Nora loves to cook with beans and lentils so you will find lots of legume recipes and information on the blog. Living outside of Boston, Ma, with her husband and three kids, she is also a full-time high school art teacher. In this episode, you'll learn about creating routine that serves your ‘why', recognizing daily wins, regardless of how small they are, and focusing on the process over perfection. Key points discussed: - Embrace mini momentum: Recognize that progress is made through small, consistent steps rather than giant leaps. This gradual growth can be seen in your analytics over time. - Live your 'why': Identify your deeper motivations and purpose, and make sure your daily actions align with and bring that 'why' to life. - Distinguish goals from milestones: Understand the difference between your ultimate goals and the smaller milestones you can achieve along the way. - Celebrate small wins: Take time to acknowledge and appreciate even the smallest accomplishments, as they contribute to your overall progress. - Prioritize progress over perfection: Focus on continuous improvement rather than striving for an unrealistic ideal. Perfection is fleeting, but progress is lasting. - Leverage daily practices: Implement habits like journaling, gratitude, and tracking progress to amplify your mini momentum. - Protect your sleep: Ensure you get adequate, quality sleep, as it is essential for your productivity, efficiency, and overall well-being. - Embrace the option to quit: Recognize that you have the freedom to walk away from things that no longer serve you, which can be liberating. Connect with Nora Bourdeau Website | Instagram
In episode 611, Sena Wheeler teaches us the importance of email marketing for business growth, sharing her strategy of sending personalized, value-driven emails. Sena Wheeler is part of a 5th generation fishing family and the co-founder of Sena Sea, which brings wild Alaskan seafood direct to your door. She's passionate about sustainability, helping busy families eat healthier and educating people about the brain-boosting benefits of wild fish. She has a master's degree in Nutrition and Food Science with a specialty in quantifying omega 3's in fish and determining preferred handling practices for premium quality. She and her husband enjoy running this family business together, spending part of the year in Alaska and having the flexibility to enjoy watching her children participate in their school sports, and of course, eating and cooking fish! In this episode, you'll learn about the benefits of leveraging personal stories in email, building a quality email list and its long-term value and stability compared to social media platforms. Key points discussed: - Consistency is key: Consistently sending emails, even if they are not perfect, is more important than trying to create a masterpiece every time. - Offer value upfront: Providing a free downloadable cookbook or other valuable content can help attract and retain subscribers. - Understand your audience: Identifying and addressing your audience's pain points, such as how to cook the product, can help you create content that resonates. - Embrace selling: Don't be afraid to include a sales pitch in your emails, as your subscribers are there because they are interested in your product or service. - Personalize your content: Sharing personal stories, photos, and updates can help build a stronger connection with your audience. - Leverage collaborations: Partnering with other influencers or bloggers can help you expand your reach and provide value to your audience. - Maintain an engaged list: Focus on building a list of engaged subscribers rather than a large list of uninterested people. - Use a content calendar: Planning your email topics and themes in advance can help you stay organized and efficient. Connect with Sena Wheeler Website | Instagram
In episode 609, Megan chats to Allie Hagerty about how she grew her food blog from 750 page views a month to over 100,000 page views a month. Allie has been food blogging since 2020, although she took a few years off. After being laid off from her full-time job as a new mom of a 4 week old, Allie decided to put all her energy back into reviving her old, crusty food blog. She started working on her new niche: new England and Mediterranean dishes (think fresh, minimalistic ingredients made delicious) in November '23. Allie had maybe 400 sessions monthly. Today, in June 2024, she has almost 75K sessions and is on MediaVine! Allie hunkered down, worked hard, and eliminated distractions like Instagram. She is proof that SEO is NOT dead. In this episode, you'll learn about Allie's strategies for creating content clusters, optimizing SEO, and maintaining consistency to achieve rapid blog growth. Key points discussed: - Focus on content clusters: You should focus on creating content clusters around ingredients, recipes, or topics that you are passionate about and knowledgeable in. - Prioritize quality over quantity: You should focus on creating high-quality, helpful content rather than just posting frequently. - Embrace interlinking: You should interlink your related content to create a cohesive and easy-to-navigate website structure. - Consistency is key: You should strive for consistency in your content creation and promotion efforts, even during challenging personal times. - Adopt a positive mindset: You should approach your blog with the mindset that every post will rank highly, and trust the process. - Build a supportive network: You should prioritize building relationships with other bloggers and mentors who can provide guidance and support. - Pursue high-quality backlinks: You should seek out opportunities to earn high-quality backlinks from reputable sources to improve your site's authority. - Optimize your titles and metadata: You should craft compelling and informative titles and metadata to improve your content's visibility and click-through rates. - Focus on your niche: You should focus on your unique expertise and niche, rather than trying to appeal to everyone or compete with others in your space. Connect with Allie Hagerty Website | Instagram
In episode 603, Megan chats to Amy Angelli leveraging E-E-A-T and creating a robust About Page to significantly boost blog traffic. Amy founded The Copper Table in 2019 to share recipes that minimize processed ingredients with a focus on cooking in season and cooking from scratch using fresh produce. She wanted these recipes to be for people who are busy and often don't have a lot of time to spend in the kitchen, but want great meals that make them feel good after a busy day. She lives on a small island in Washington state between Seattle and the Canadian border in a richly agricultural area that provides a lot of inspiration and recipe ingredients! In this episode, you'll learn about how Amy tripled her traffic during Google's HCU as well as strategies for effective interlinking, crafting compelling opening paragraphs, and shifting mindset around recipe creation and keyword research. Key points discussed: - Update your About Page regularly: Continuously revise and expand your about page to showcase your expertise, authority, and trustworthiness as your knowledge and experience grow. - Link to your About Page conversationally: Incorporate links to your about page in a natural, conversational way within your recipe posts to guide readers and signal your authority. - Establish expertise in the opening: Dedicate the first 1-2 paragraphs of your recipe posts to clearly establishing your expertise and authority on the topic. - Address specific pain points: Focus on addressing specific pain points or needs that your recipe solves for the reader in the opening paragraphs. - Leverage your personal experiences: Incorporate relevant personal experiences, family history, or educational background that demonstrate your expertise in the niche. - Interlink strategically: Develop an interlinking strategy that connects your recipe posts to other relevant content, categories, and your about page to showcase the depth of your knowledge. - Prioritize helpfulness over metrics: Shift your mindset to focus on being a helpful, one-stop resource for your readers, rather than solely chasing traffic volume or low competition. - Continuously expand your expertise: Consider taking additional classes, courses, or pursuing other opportunities to deepen your knowledge and skills in your niche. - Maintain a positive mindset: Adopt a mindset of focusing on the present and not worrying excessively about future changes, as each day brings its own challenges. If You Loved this Episode… You'll love Episode 428: 5 Biggest Mistakes Food Bloggers Make In Their SEO with Ty Kilgore - this episode is referenced in Megan's conversation with Amy. Connect with Amy Angelli Website | Instagram
What does the future of blogging look like? Is it worth it to blog anymore after Google's Core Updates and the growth of AI? In my opinion, while it's important to keep up with SEO best practices, I think we need to shift the way we approach blogging and really start thinking about our blogs as businesses and our content as a tool for growing the business (vs the blog content as the whole business itself). But, how do you do this? That is exactly what we'll be covering in this episode. More specifically, we'll discuss: How to shift the way you run your blog moving forward 5-step action plan for creating a sustainable and profitable blogging business Examples of blogs that have been able to see success beyond the Google Core Updates & AI And more! In short, if you're looking for answers and are curious if there is a future for blogging after ChatGPT, the Helpful Content Update, and other threats to content websites, you won't want to miss this! FREE BONUS: Grab access to my free travel blogger resource library: https://jessieonajourney.com/free-blogging-printables/ It includes 55+ blogging resources all meant to help you grow your traffic, community, and income faster and with less overwhelm. Snag workshops, tutorials, workbooks, cheat sheets, Trello boards, workflows, and more! TRAVEL BLOG PROSPERITY OFFER: Get your first month for just $9 (reg $49) with code PODCAST and get instant access to $7k worth of courses & bonuses aimed at helping you turn your blog into a profitable business: https://jessieonajourney.teachable.com/p/travel-blog-prosperity?coupon_code=PODCAST&product_id=522355 After joining, forward me your receipt and say "Give me the bonuses!" to get a bonus list of 51 paying blogger opportunities. You can cancel your membership at any time, even before the discounted month is over. TOOLS MENTIONED: Visit this link for a list of my favorite blogging tools, resources, and discounts - including tools mentioned in the episode: https://jessieonajourney.com/tools/ CONNECT WITH JESSIE: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jessieonajourney/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jessieonajourney/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/JessonaJourney TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jessieonajourney YouTube (travel): https://www.youtube.com/@jessieonajourney/featured YouTube (blogging): https://www.youtube.com/@makemoneytravelblogging Travel Creator Community Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/bloggrowthposse
In episode 593, Kimberlee Ho teaches us 3 easy ways to grow our blog part-time while working full-time, including, how to be selective with our focus and time. Kim is a home baker from NJ, who loves to share approachable baking recipes and tips with busy families like her own on her blog, kickassbaker.com. Kim works full-time during the day and bakes, recipe tests, and photographs at night and on the weekends in between acting as an Uber driver for her two teenage daughters. Her goal is to inspire home bakers to kick ass in the kitchen! In this episode, you'll learn more about identifying growth drivers for your blog, the importance of adapting to changing industry trends as well as intentional time management and the support of a community in achieving blogging goals. Key points discussed: - Focus on 1-2 key growth drivers: For example, you can focus on growing page views and sessions to attract and retain readers, rather than getting distracted by new platforms. - Test different work methods: Experiment with your work schedule and batching tasks to find the most efficient approach for you. - Use to-do lists: Keep multiple to-do lists to stay organized and reduce anxiety about forgetting important tasks. - Embrace flexibility: Maintain a flexible mindset, adapting your methods as your needs and circumstances change over time. - Leverage trusted networks: Ask for feedback and support from the blogging community to avoid shiny object syndrome. - Break down goals into steps: Break down larger goals into manageable, actionable steps to avoid feeling overwhelmed. - Advantages of working full-time: By having full-time job Kim can enjoy growing her blog without the pressure of relying on it as her sole income. Connect with Kimberlee Ho Website | Instagram
In episode 591, Megan chats to Alexandra Shytsman about how to avoid 7 common food photography mistakes beginners make, including lighting, angle and styling mistakes. Alexandra Shytsman is a recipe developer, food photographer, and creator of The New Baguette, a plant-based recipe site. Her mission is to inspire people to cook healthier plant-centered meals at home. She is the author of Friendsgiving, co-author of The Complete Vegan Cookbook, and contributes to sites like Simply Recipes and EatingWell. She has also been teaching in-person food photography classes (in groups and one-on-one) since 2018. Originally from Ukraine, Alex moved to New York City at a young age and has lived there ever since. In this episode, you'll learn more about using natural light versus artificial light, the correct angle for shooting food, which garnishes to use and which ones to avoid and how to make boring food stand out. Key points discussed: - Lighting is crucial: Use natural light or photography-specific equipment, rather than overhead kitchen lights, to achieve flattering and accurate food photography. - Avoid tilted angles: Keep the camera horizon straight to create a more natural and comfortable viewing experience for the audience. - Provide context: Zooming out to show the entire plate or scene, rather than just a close-up, helps provide context and balance to the image. - Choose props carefully: Neutral-colored, non-distracting props are recommended to avoid drawing attention away from the food. - Are your photos in focus? Learning to use the camera in manual mode and checking focus before finalizing the shot can help ensure crisp, in-focus images. - Garnishes can transform boring photos: Adding thoughtful garnishes, such as herbs, spices, or seeds, can enhance the visual appeal of the food. - Plan before you shoot: Creating a mood board and shot list beforehand can help streamline the photography process and ensure all necessary shots are captured. - Embrace negative space: Allowing for some empty space around the food can create a more balanced and visually appealing composition. Connect with Alexandra Shytsman Website | Instagram
Interested in learning how to make money selling travel itineraries? Then you're in the right place, as in this episode of The Profitable Travel Blogger Podcast, we'll be going over a powerful workflow for creating and monetizing a paid itinerary service! By the end of this episode, you'll understand: What goes into planning a trip itinerary Tips for impressing your itinerary planning clients How to price custom travel itineraries Ideas for marketing your personal travel planning service Ways to legally protect your travel planning business And more! In short, if you're looking to learn a step-by-step strategy that goes over how to monetize a travel blog by creating customized travel itineraries, you won't want to miss this! FREE BONUS: Grab access to my free travel blogger resource library: https://jessieonajourney.com/free-blogging-printables/ It includes 55+ blogging resources all meant to help you grow your traffic, community, and income faster and with less overwhelm. Snag workshops, tutorials, workbooks, cheat sheets, Trello boards, workflows, and more! TOOLS MENTIONED: Visit this link for a list of my favorite blogging tools, resources, and discounts - including tools mentioned in the episode: https://jessieonajourney.com/tools/ CONNECT WITH JESSIE: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jessieonajourney/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jessieonajourney/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/JessonaJourney TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jessieonajourney YouTube (travel): https://www.youtube.com/@jessieonajourney/featured YouTube (blogging): https://www.youtube.com/@makemoneytravelblogging Travel Creator Community Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/bloggrowthposse
In episode 585, Megan chats to Carol Borchardt about the advantages of being a food blogger after you've retired and how to succeed regardless of your age. Carol Borchardt is a retired personal chef with 22 years of experience cooking food people want to eat! She is also a former newspaper food columnist and mom to rescue kitty, Olive. Carol is married (almost 29 years) with two stepchildren and four grandchildren. At From A Chef's Kitchen, which Carol started ten years ago, she shares easy, step-by-step, chef-tested restaurant-quality recipes that are easy to make at home. If You Loved This Episode… You'll love Episode 132 with Jen Lefforge – Starting A YouTube Channel Over 40. In this episode, you'll learn about what it is like being a full-time retired food blogger, why it is important to start sooner rather than later and how to overcome technical difficulties. Key points discussed: - Start a food blog at any age: Carol started her food blog between the ages of 40-50 - it's never too late to pursue a creative passion. - Overcome technical fears: Start with a good host and theme, and use resources or hire experts to handle the technical aspects of blogging. - Embrace social media strategically: Focus on the platforms that you feel comfortable with and enjoy. - Monetization can provide financial freedom: If your blog is monetised, your retirement income will be self-sustaining and provide flexibility. - Blogging can be a fulfilling retirement gig: You may find immense satisfaction in the creative outlet of food blogging, keeping you active and productive in retirement. - Build a legacy through recipes: Think of preserving family recipes and creating a lasting legacy through a food blog. - Do it on your own terms: Pursue your passion and don't feel pressured to conform to industry standards. - Find your true fans: Remember why you started the blog and connect with readers who appreciate your unique voice and content. Connect with Carol Borchardt Website | Instagram
Interested in learning how to create a membership program? Then you're in the right place, as in this episode of The Profitable Travel Blogger Podcast, we'll be going over a step-by-step strategy for creating a membership program online for recurring revenue. By the end of this episode, you'll understand: How to come up with your membership design Advice for properly pricing your membership program How to choose a membership site platform Tips for successful membership site marketing Insights into building a membership program—including the content & experience And more! In short, if you're looking to increase your blogging income through an online membership program, you won't want to miss this. By the end, you'll have a membership plan template ready to use! FREE BONUS: Grab a seat in my free 10 Ways To Make Money Travel Blogging Workshop: https://jessieonajourney.com/how-to-make-money-as-a-travel-blogger-webinar/ Learn 10 powerful strategies for growing your travel blogging income and turning your blog into a wildly profitable business – including a mix of passive and active strategies. Plus, there are bonuses, a Q&A, and a limited-time replay. TOOLS MENTIONED: Visit this link for a list of my favorite blogging tools, resources, and discounts - including tools mentioned in the episode: https://jessieonajourney.com/tools/ CONNECT WITH JESSIE: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jessieonajourney/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jessieonajourney/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/JessonaJourney TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jessieonajourney YouTube (travel): https://www.youtube.com/@jessieonajourney/featured YouTube (blogging): https://www.youtube.com/@makemoneytravelblogging Travel Creator Community Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/bloggrowthposse
In episode 581, Leslie Osborne teaches us how to create high-quality recipe videos using a phone, including what settings to use while recording and how to use artificial lighting correctly. Leslie started her food blog Bessie Bakes in 2015 after going to artisan bread and pastry school in Chicago, IL in 2012. She wanted to have a food-based business but after having her son, she realized that she needed to work from home but still share her recipes and passion for baking. After really struggling with food photography because she couldn't find affordable yet high-quality backdrops, Leslie started learning how to make her own. In 2019 she launched Bessie Bakes Backdrops and began selling her own line of lightweight, cleanable photography backdrops on her own website and Amazon. Along the way, Leslie has personally done all the photography and videography for her products and social media accounts and shares lots of tutorials and behind-the-scenes content on IG and Youtube! In this episode, you'll learn about video filming apps for your phone, using diffusers and bounce cards, making food look delicious and many other tips. Key points discussed: - Film in 4K 60fps: Filming recipe videos in 4K resolution at 60 frames per second can improve the quality and clarity of the footage. - Use a video filming app: Using a dedicated video filming app, rather than the default camera, allows for better control over camera settings like white balance and exposure. - Get close-up shots: Zooming in and positioning the camera close to the food can help make the recipe the star of the video. - Use food styling techniques: Make your food look extra delicious and textured by adding extra sauce, oil, seasoning, dressing etc. - Pay attention to lighting: Proper lighting, whether natural or artificial, is crucial for achieving vibrant colors and textures in recipe videos. - Use diffusers and bounce cards: Using diffusers and bounce cards can help soften and balance the lighting for a more natural look. - Tripods make filming easier: Different types of tripods, from tabletop to C-stands, offer varying levels of stability and flexibility for phone-based recipe videos. - Embrace failure and practice: Mastering videography skills takes time and a willingness to experiment and learn from mistakes. Guest Details Connect with Leslie Osborne Website | Instagram
This week I'm interviewing Holly Homer, co-founder of PageWheel and the creative force behind KidsActivities.com. Episode Highlights:Introduction to Holly Homer: Holly shares her remarkable journey from starting one of the first mom blogs to creating a sustainable business that supports her family.Streamlining Digital Product Creation: Discover how PageWheel can generate sales pages, thank you pages, delivery emails, and social media content, reducing the time and effort needed for digital marketing.SEO Strategies and Opt-in Benefits: Holly explains the critical role of structured content and opt-ins in building and controlling web traffic, enhancing user experience, and improving search engine rankings.Editorial Calendar Best Practices: Get practical tips on creating and managing an editorial calendar to ensure your content remains timely, relevant, and engaging.Maximizing Email Engagement: Learn Holly's effective strategies for maintaining a highly engaged email list, driving repeat traffic, and maximizing the value of your email subscribers.Internal Linking and Content Optimization: Understand the importance of internal linking to improve user navigation and boost SEO performance, along with tips on updating and optimizing old content.Leveraging AI for Efficiency: Discover how integrating AI in PageWheel has transformed Holly's approach to creating and promoting digital products.Customer Feedback and Product Improvement: The value of customer feedback in refining your products and services to better meet user needs and expectations.Resources Mentioned:PageWheel: Visit PageWheel for a comprehensive tool that streamlines digital product creation.KidsActivities.com: Explore Holly's blog for a plethora of fun and educational activities for kids.PageWheel Facebook Group: Join for exclusive live training sessions and a supportive community of digital product creators and bloggers.Connect with HoSend 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!
Send us a Text Message.Harnessing the dual power of blogs and Pinterest can be a game-changer for female service providers looking to elevate their brand and increase their online presence. Blogs offer a platform to share your expertise, engage your audience, and drive traffic to your website, while Pinterest Marketing amplifies your reach with captivating visuals and a unique algorithm that prioritizes fresh content. Pinterest Challenge - Sign up FREE https://thepinterestqueen.com/challengeLearn Pinterest with live coaching from me for only $40/month! https://pintereststrategyacademy.com/psc
There are many amateur blogging mistakes to avoid. And, in reality, if you're a newbie blogger, you're probably making some of them. But, don't panic, as in this episode of The Profitable Travel Blogger Podcast, we'll be going over 13 common blogging mistakes—with solutions! By the end of this episode, you'll understand: The biggest mistakes bloggers make that can hurt growth & profitability Steps to take to get set up legally Tips for creating content that increases blog traffic Important advice for blog monetization How to avoid getting overwhelmed as a blogger And more! In short, if you're looking to avoid common beginner blogging mistakes and set yourself up for success, you won't want to miss this! FREE BONUS: Grab access to my free travel blogger resource library: https://jessieonajourney.com/free-blogging-printables/ It includes 55+ blogging resources all meant to help you grow your traffic, community, and income faster and with less overwhelm. Snag workshops, tutorials, workbooks, cheat sheets, Trello boards, workflows, and more! TOOLS MENTIONED: Visit this link for a list of my favorite blogging tools, resources, and discounts - including tools mentioned in the episode: https://jessieonajourney.com/tools/ CONNECT WITH JESSIE: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jessieonajourney/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jessieonajourney/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/JessonaJourney TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jessieonajourney YouTube (travel): https://www.youtube.com/@jessieonajourney/featured YouTube (blogging): https://www.youtube.com/@makemoneytravelblogging Travel Creator Community Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/bloggrowthposse
In episode 545, Desiree Nielsen teaches us how to find our unique voice and cooking style in food blogging through self-reflection, embracing creativity and sharing vulnerability to meaningfully connect with readers. Desiree Nielsen is a registered dietitian in Vancouver Canada with over a decade of experience in plant-based nutrition and chronic digestive and inflammatory disease. She is the author of two Canadian bestselling and award-winning cookbooks, Eat More Plants and Good For Your Gut. Her latest book, Plant Magic, arrives April 2024. Her work has been featured in People, Washington Post, The Globe and Mail, KTLA, WGN Chicago, The Social, Food Network Canada and Elle Gourmet Canada in addition to hundreds of media features across North America. Desiree is also a food blogger and the host of the evidence-informed wellness podcast, The Allsorts Podcast, where she hosts a diverse roster of guests from NYT bestselling authors to leading health professionals and researchers. In this episode, you'll learn about the importance of standing out as a food blogger, how to find your unique voice and style (while still following SEO guidelines) and how to build a community that is not reliant on social media platforms or Google. Key points discussed: - Reflect on your personal food interests and cooking style: Take time to understand your preferences, tastes, and approach to cooking to develop a unique voice. - Look at what others are doing differently: Analyze popular blogs and recipes to find gaps that allow you to approach topics in a distinctive way. - “Write drunk, edit sober”: Write without inhibition first and then structure anecdotes and humor within a format to meet SEO guidelines. - Prioritize search volume: Focus recipes on your blog on trending topics and keywords people are actively searching to maximize visibility. - Develop recipes with unique ingredients: Add a flavor profile or component that is unique to you to make recipes stand out and memorable. - Build community consistently: Nurture readers through high-value, free content to develop loyal readership and build a newsletter to connect directly with your community. - Embrace the unexpected: Leave space for unforeseen opportunities that could further your growth in surprising new directions. - Share vulnerability: Connect with readers through candid self-disclosure in small doses to form deeper relationships. - Your Path is Your Path: Pursue your interests wholeheartedly and say "yes" to chances that excite you creatively. Guest Details Connect with Desiree Nielsen Website | Instagram
In episode 540, Dyutima Jha teaches us how to keep readers on our food blogs for longer by creating visually compelling narratives with our photos, and which common mistakes to avoid. Dyutima is an architect-turned commercial and editorial food photographer and podcaster based in Singapore. She is the first South Asian woman to host a food photography podcast, My Food Lens. After 15 years as an architect, designing healthcare facilities around the world, she found her passion in food styling and photography. Today, she has a successful business working with clients around the world and teaching other photographers how to do so as well. Her work has been featured in a range of food & photography magazines like Thrive magazine, Whalebone magazine etc. and she has worked with several prestigious clients like The Intercontinental Hotel Singapore, McCormick etc. In this episode, you'll learn about the importance of visual storytelling, lighting, angles, and consistency in creating compelling narratives that engage and retain the viewer's attention. Key points discussed: - Plan Food Photo Shoots in Advance: Use a storyboard to stay focused creatively and save time during a photo shoot. - Think of Your Recipe as a Story: Like a movie, there's a plot, hero, theme and genre. Use these elements to tell your story. - Bring Readers into Your Story Through the First Image: Improve first impressions with powerful opening photos that hook readers emotionally or visually - Activate the Viewer's Imagination: Create a sequence of events and narrate this through your photos using ingredients, movement and context. - Readers Disengage with Technically Weak Photos: Check lighting, camera angles, storytelling cohesion, and color editing in photos. - Readers Disengage with Disconnected Visuals: Do your photos match with the vibe, colors and branding of your website? Do they match the specific type of recipe? - Show Readers the Bigger Picture: As a final photo, include the context of where readers might enjoy the recipe; use props to narrate this visually. - Make Dull Food Look Appetizing: By adding contrasting colors using herbs or flowers and by using macro shots, you can make unappealing food look great. Connect with Dyutima Jha Website | Instagram
Wondering how to monetize your digital content? Well, you're in luck, as in this episode of The Profitable Travel Blogger Podcast, we'll be going over nine creative content monetization strategies that work! By the end of this episode, you'll understand: A powerful framework for creating profitable content that also helps your audience 9 digital content monetization strategy examples that work How to create a profitable content plan for your blog, email, social media & beyond How to monetize your blog posts & earn consistent passive income And more! In short, if you want to understand how to monetize your content across your digital touchpoints, you won't want to miss this! SPONSOR: Ahrefs - Try Ahrefs Webmaster Tools for free here: https://ahrefs.com/awt FREE PROFITABLE CONTENT PLAN WORKSHOP Grab your seat in my 3-Step Profitable Content Plan workshop - bonuses, Q&A & limited-time replay included! https://jessieonajourney.com/content-plan-webinar/ TOOLS MENTIONED: Visit this link for a list of my favorite blogging tools, resources, and discounts - including tools mentioned in the episode: https://jessieonajourney.com/tools/ CONNECT WITH JESSIE: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jessieonajourney/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jessieonajourney/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/JessonaJourney TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jessieonajourney YouTube (travel): https://www.youtube.com/@jessieonajourney/featured YouTube (blogging): https://www.youtube.com/@makemoneytravelblogging Travel Creator Community Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/bloggrowthposse
Want to learn how to use AI to write blog posts ethically and authentically? Well, you're in luck, as in this episode of The Profitable Travel Blogger Podcast, we'll be going over how to use artificial intelligence for blog writing while still keeping your own voice. Our guest for the episode is AI blogging expert Nina Clapperton of She Knows SEO, who will be sharing her best tips. By the end of this episode, you'll understand: How to create the best AI prompts for blog posts A step-by-step strategy for using AI to write blog posts ethically Tips for properly training your AI tool for blog writing The best AI tools for blogging Mistakes to avoid when using AI for blog writing And more! In short, if you're confused about how to grow your blog traffic and are looking for a new strategy that doesn't require a ton of time, this episode can help. SPONSOR: Ahrefs - Try Ahrefs Webmaster Tools for free here: https://ahrefs.com/awt FREE BONUS: Grab access to my free 3-Step Profitable Content Plan Workshop: https://jessieonajourney.com/content-plan-webinar Along with showing you how to strategically plan your content for increased traffic and income, you'll learn how to choose a niche, optimize your website & content for SEO, find keywords you can actually rank for, grow your passive affiliate earnings, and more! TOOLS MENTIONED: Visit this link for a list of my favorite blogging tools, resources, and discounts - including tools mentioned in the episode: https://jessieonajourney.com/tools/ CONNECT WITH NINA: Website: https://sheknowsseo.co/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/NinaClapperton SEO For Travel Bloggers FB Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/seofortravelbloggers CONNECT WITH JESSIE: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jessieonajourney/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jessieonajourney/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/JessonaJourney TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jessieonajourney YouTube (travel): https://www.youtube.com/@jessieonajourney/featured YouTube (blogging): https://www.youtube.com/@makemoneytravelblogging Travel Creator Community Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/bloggrowthposse
Want to learn how to legally protect your blog? Well, you're in luck, as in this episode of The Profitable Travel Blogger Podcast, we'll be going over how to blog legally to protect your business, your content, and yourself. Our guest for the episode is Lisa Fraley, an attorney and legal coach. By the end of this episode, you'll understand: Legal pages for your blog that are vital to have Blogging legal issues that are important to be aware of How to protect your blog content If you should trademark your blog name And more! In short, if you're confused about blogging laws and how to blog legally, this episode can help. FREE BONUS: Grab access to my free travel blogger resource library: https://jessieonajourney.com/free-blogging-printables/ It includes 55+ blogging resources all meant to help you grow your traffic, community, and income faster and with less overwhelm. Snag workshops, tutorials, workbooks, cheat sheets, Trello boards, workflows, and more! TOOLS MENTIONED: Visit this link for a list of my favorite blogging tools, resources, and discounts - including tools mentioned in the episode: https://jessieonajourney.com/tools/ CONNECT WITH LISA: Website: https://lisafraley.com/ Free "No Refunds" Guide: https://lisafraley.com/freegift Legal Templates (affiliate link): https://smpl.ro/al/fb9aF1NjuxhXdzEcfPBdBvZj/14245-jessieonajourney CONNECT WITH JESSIE: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jessieonajourney/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jessieonajourney/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/JessonaJourney TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jessieonajourney YouTube (travel): https://www.youtube.com/@jessieonajourney/featured YouTube (blogging): https://www.youtube.com/@makemoneytravelblogging Travel Creator Community Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/bloggrowthposse
In episode 516, Jo Keohane teaches us how to style food to make it look as delicious as possible in order to drive more traffic to our blogs. Since graduating from Culinary School in NYC in 2010 Jo Keohane freelanced as a Recipe Developer and Food Stylist in test kitchens of many America's best known publications, like Bon Appetit Magazine, Epicurious and Saveur. She has also worked with a variety of household brands like William Sonoma, Weightwatchers, Staub Cookware, Danone, Kraft and more. She started off life as a BBC journalist and then worked in PR in London. But a love of cooking and a desire to find a fulfilling career which would allow her to spend more time with her 3 kids took her back to school to study cooking. After moving to the USA in she was lucky enough to attend the Institute of Culinary Education in New York City. Now she runs her own food blog - The Family Food Kitchen - helping other busy families to eat well even when time is short! her blog focusses on easy, delicious and do-able recipes - and contains lots of one pot, sheet pan and easy meal ideas. In this episode, you'll learn about what to consider before you start shooting your recipe, including how to layer and pick ingredients, backdrops, props and garnishes. - Food Styling is a Problem Solving Exercise: During recipe development, plan ahead to make sure your ingredients will help you make your dish look appealing. - Don't Hold Back on Good-Quality Ingredients: Better quality ingredients will have more vibrancy and make your photos pop more. - Create Depth and Movement in Food Photography: Use layering to create depth in your photos and take photos of movement (e.g. pouring a sauce). - Balance Perfection and Authenticity: While it's important to make your photos look appealing and create intrigue avoid overly perfect photos - crumbs and spills in small quantities add character. - Proper Ingredient Storage: Store ingredients to maintain freshness and quality. For example improper storage of herbs can lead to wilting and might detract from your photos. - Adjust Cooking Times for Food Photography: There's a difference between cooking to eat food and cooking for photography. Adjust cooking times to ensure that the food looks its best on camera. - Use Props and Tools for Food Styling: Jo discusses the importance of having a set tray with essential tools and props for food styling, such as sharp knives, tweezers, Q-tips, paper towels, toothpicks, spritz bottles, squeeze bottles, spatulas, and brushes to aid in food styling. - Layering Garnishes to Enhance the Dish: Use different garnishing techniques to elevate the appearance of dishes for photography. By layering garnishes strategically, you can add depth and visual interest to the dish. Connect with Jo Keohane Website | Instagram