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Join Favour Obasi-ike, MBA, MS for a masterclass on email marketing strategies that actually drive revenue. In this session, Favour breaks down the power of segmented email campaigns, explains the metrics that matter, and shares how to build a website-first content strategy that turns subscribers into customers. Learn how to leverage free tools, automate your email sequences, and create long-term relationships with your audience through strategic, data-driven email marketing ROI.Whether you're just starting with email marketing or looking to optimize your existing campaigns, this episode delivers actionable insights you can implement immediately to boost engagement and generate sustainable revenue.What You'll Learn✓ How to use segmented emails to increase revenue and engagement✓ The difference between click-through rate and click rate (and why it matters)✓ Why your website is the foundation of successful email marketing✓ Google's E-E-A-T framework for creating helpful content✓ How to repurpose one piece of content across multiple channels✓ Which free tools every email marketer should be using✓ The "website-first" content strategy that saves time and builds SEO✓ How to create automated email sequences that work 24/7Top 7 Email Marketing Best Practices1. Use Segmented Emails StrategicallyCreate segments based on subscriber behavior and preferences. Use polls and interactive elements to gather data, then tag links to track which subscribers are interested in which offerings.2. Build a Helpful, Responsive WebsiteYour website should be fast-loading, mobile-friendly, and provide genuine value. Focus on Google's E-E-A-T framework: Experience, Expertise, Authority, and Trust.3. Create Content on Your Website FirstPublish content on your website before sharing on social media. This builds your owned digital assets, improves SEO, and gives you more control over distribution.4. Leverage Email Metrics for Continuous ImprovementTrack who opens, clicks, and takes action. Identify your most engaged subscribers and create VIP segments for them. Use this data to refine your messaging over time.5. Implement Scheduled and Automated Email SequencesSet up automated sequences that trigger based on subscriber actions. Create welcome series, nurture campaigns, and re-engagement flows that work around the clock.6. Repurpose Content Across Multiple FormatsTake one long-form piece and break it into blog posts, social media updates, podcast episodes, videos, and email newsletters. Maximize your content creation efforts.7. Focus on Long-term Relationship BuildingNot everyone opens emails the day you send them. Be consistent with your schedule, provide ongoing value, and build trust over time rather than chasing quick sales.Key Metrics to TrackDeliverability Rate - Percentage of emails reaching subscriber inboxesOpen Rate - Percentage of delivered emails that get openedClick Rate - Percentage of delivered emails with link clicksClick-Through Rate (CTR) - Percentage of opened emails with link clicksConversion Rate - Percentage completing your desired actionPodcast Episode Timestamps[00:00] Episode introduction: Email marketing best practices that earn revenue[00:40] Why segmented emails are the #1 revenue driver[03:06] How to create segments triggered by scheduled emails[03:37] Example: Segmenting by in-person vs. virtual event preferences[06:00] Using polls to understand what your audience really wants[07:00] Revenue starts at the beginning: building systems for MRR[08:00] Click-through rate vs. click rate explained[09:00] Identifying and segmenting your most engaged subscribers[10:00] Tracking email opens and clicks consistently[10:30] Creating VIP segments for highly engaged subscribers[14:00] Re-engaging inactive subscribers through targeted campaigns[15:00] Email deliverability and its impact on revenue[17:00] Understanding spam filters and how to avoid them[18:00] Email authentication: SPF, DKIM, and DMARC[20:00] Real case study: Client ranking page one for competitive keywords[21:42] Technical SEO: indexing, blogs, location pages, schema markup[23:00] Email marketing as direct response marketing[24:00] Why not everyone opens emails immediately (and that's okay)[25:00] Best Practice #1: Have a helpful, responsive website[25:32] Google's E-E-A-T framework: Experience, Expertise, Authority, Trust[26:22] You have less than 10 seconds to make an impression[27:00] The "website-first" content strategy[27:22] Free analytics tools: Google Search Console, GA4, Bing, Microsoft Clarity[28:00] Repurposing one article into multiple content formats[30:00] Maximizing content value through strategic repurposing[32:00] Creating content pillars and topic clusters[33:00] Planning content calendars aligned with email campaigns[35:00] Balancing evergreen content with timely topics[37:00] Creating lead magnets that attract quality subscribers[39:00] A/B testing email subject lines and content[40:00] Overview of popular email marketing platforms[41:00] Mailchimp: features, pricing, and best use cases[42:00] Constant Contact for small businesses and nonprofits[43:00] Brevo (formerly Sendinblue): affordable with SMS capabilities[44:00] HubSpot: comprehensive CRM and marketing automation[45:00] Choosing the right platform for your business needs[46:00] Free tier options and when to upgrade[50:00] Advanced segmentation for e-commerce businesses[51:00] Using behavioral triggers to increase conversions[52:00] Email in omnichannel marketing strategies[53:00] Measuring ROI from email campaigns[54:00] Common email marketing mistakes to avoid[57:00] Recap of key best practices[59:00] Closing remarks and next session announcement[59:29] Tomorrow's topic: Search Engine Marketing & SEO Best Practices (11 AM Central)Tools & Resources MentionedEmail Marketing Platforms: Flodesk >> Sign up and Get 50% OffAnalytics Tools: Google Search Console, Google Analytics (GA4), Bing Webmaster Tools, Microsoft Clarity, Fathom Analytics, Matomo AnalyticsOther Tools: Eventbrite, PinterestSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
In this strategic follow-up, Favour Obasi-ike, MBA, MS unveils the powerful, interconnected Microsoft ecosystem and why it's a game-changer for SEO. Move beyond Google and discover how Bing, Perplexity AI, and LinkedIn work together to build your website's authority and visibility in the age of AI search.We delve into the crucial, often-missed strategy for new websites: using Bing Webmaster Tools as a "language bridge" to accelerate Google's recognition of your site. Learn why your website must become your proprietary first-party data asset and how structured content gets cited by platforms like Perplexity.This episode is your roadmap to LLM (Large Language Model) Visibility, providing actionable steps on building trust signals, implementing schema markup, and creating a unified content structure that works across all platforms—not against them.Need to Book An SEO Discovery Call for Advertising or Marketing Services?>> Book a Complimentary SEO Discovery Call with Favour Obasi-Ike>> Visit Work and PLAY Entertainment website to learn about our digital marketing services>> Join our exclusive SEO Marketing community>> Read SEO Articles>> Subscribe to the We Don't PLAY Podcast>> Purchase Flaev Beatz Beats Online
In this insightful episode, Favour Obasi-ike, MBA, MS breaks down the critical differences and essential overlaps between traditional Google SEO and the emerging field of ChatGPT SEO (optimization for AI search). The core distinction is framed as Websites vs. Conversation. While Google prioritizes structured, keyword-optimized websites, AI models like ChatGPT, Perplexity, and Gemini focus on providing direct, conversational answers.Favour Obasi-ike argues that the future of content visibility lies in establishing your website as the central anchor for all content distribution. By consistently linking your website across all platforms (YouTube, LinkedIn, podcasts, etc.), you build the domain authority and citation structure necessary for AI models to trust and cite your content. He emphasizes that AI-driven search is shifting the user experience from "clicking" on a link to "trusting" a direct answer, making the source's authority more critical than ever. The podcast episode concludes with actionable advice on technical SEO, including optimizing for page speed, Core Web Vitals, and formatting content with listicles and tables to be easily digestible by AI.Need to Book An SEO Discovery Call for Advertising or Marketing Services?>> Book a Complimentary SEO Discovery Call with Favour Obasi-Ike>> Visit Work and PLAY Entertainment website to learn about our digital marketing services>> Join our exclusive SEO Marketing community>> Read SEO Articles>> Subscribe to the We Don't PLAY Podcast>> Purchase Flaev Beatz Beats OnlineKey Episode TakeawaysThe Fundamental Difference: Websites vs. ConversationThe core difference is in the format each search system prioritizes. Google SEO is built around ranking individual websites on search result pages (SERPs) for structured keywords. The user's journey involves clicking through to a website.ChatGPT SEO, on the other hand, is built for a conversational AI interface. The goal is to provide the perfect, direct, and trusted answer within the chat window itself, minimizing the need for a click.The New SEO Ecosystem: LLM VisibilityTo achieve LLM Visibility (Large Language Model Visibility), you must understand that search is now split between two major ecosystems.The Google/OpenAI ecosystem includes Google search, ChatGPT (using the Atlas Browser), and the associated platform, YouTube.The Microsoft/Perplexity ecosystem includes the Perplexity AI platform (using the Comet Browser) and the associated Microsoft-owned platform, LinkedIn.Actionable Steps for 2026 SEO StrategyEstablish Your Anchor: Your website must be the central hub for all your content.Distribute Your Authority: Place your website link on every third-party platform (social media, podcast directories, video descriptions).Optimize for Speed: Prioritize Core Web Vitals and page speed for both mobile and desktop to ensure a positive user experience, which Google rewards.Format for AI: Structure your content using tables, listicles, and concise, keyword-rich formatsto make it easy for AI models to extract and cite direct answers.Build Trust, Not Just Clicks: Focus on building long-term trust and authority with search engines through consistent, high-quality, and structured content.Episode Timestamps[00:00] Introduction: Google SEO vs. ChatGPT SEO, Optimization Showdown.[00:30] Defining the core difference: Google focuses on websites, ChatGPT focuses on conversation.[01:33] The connection: ChatGPT Atlas (browser) citing YouTube (owned by Google).[03:52] The goal: Use your website as an anchor for content distribution.[04:02] Understanding LLM Visibility (Large Language Model Visibility).[04:28] The emerging AI browser landscape: ChatGPT Atlas, Perplexity Comet, and the upcoming Google Disco.[05:30] The two major ecosystems: Google/YouTube/ChatGPT vs. Microsoft/LinkedIn/Perplexity.[06:15] The importance of checking your business's citations with "Google Learn About."[06:56] AI's focus on directness and specificity in answers (Siri, Alexa, etc.).[08:00] The shift from "click" to "trust" in AI-driven search results.[09:00] Why a strong website domain authority is crucial for AI citation.[10:00] The concept of "AI-friendly" content and the need for listicles and tables.[11:00] The future of search: AI-driven answers vs. traditional links.[12:00] The importance of structured data and schema for AI.[13:00] The difference between a website and a social media profile.[14:00] The need for a content mix (audio, video, text, image).[15:00] The role of a website in the new SEO ecosystem.[16:00] The power of a website's domain authority.[17:00] The shift from "click" to "trust" in AI-driven search.[18:00] The importance of technical SEO: Page Speed and Core Web Vitals.[19:00] How to build content that is easy to read and digest.[20:00] The value of brand citations and authority.[21:00] The long-term benefit of placing your website everywhere.[22:00] Final call to action: Check if your content is in table and listicle formats.[23:00] The power of tactics, strategy, and timing in SEO.[24:00] Conclusion: Build structure and trust with search engines, as they are "talking to each other."See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
In this comprehensive session, Favour Obasi-ike, MBA, MS explores the strategic nuances of email marketing. The discussion transcends basic sales tactics, positioning email as a foundational pillar for business documentation, professional credibility, and high-impact communication. Favour emphasizes that while social media platforms often dominate the marketing conversation, email remains a superior channel for conversion and long-term relationship building. The session provides a detailed roadmap for entrepreneurs and developers alike, covering technical infrastructure, audience psychology, and the necessity of intentional engagement.Strategic Insights and Market ComparisonsThe conversation highlights a stark contrast between the ephemeral nature of social media and the enduring impact of email marketing. Favour notes that social media conversion rates typically languish below 1%, whereas search engine optimization (SEO) and email marketing can achieve conversion rates ranging from 16% to over 33%. This discrepancy is attributed to the "currency" of email: the exclusive time and attention granted by the recipient. Unlike social media posts that are quickly buried by algorithms, an email retains its conversion potential long after it is sent, provided it reaches the recipient's inbox through proper technical execution.Need to Book An SEO Discovery Call for Advertising or Marketing Services?>> Book a Complimentary SEO Discovery Call with Favour Obasi-Ike>> Visit Work and PLAY Entertainment website to learn about our digital marketing services>> Join our exclusive SEO Marketing community>> Read SEO Articles>> Subscribe to the We Don't PLAY Podcast>> Purchase Flaev Beatz Beats Online| Marketing Channel | Average Conversion Rate | Primary Advantage || Social Media | < 1% | High initial visibility and brand awareness. || Email Marketing | 16% - 33%+ | Direct connection, longevity, and high intent. || SEO | 16% - 33%+ | Sustainable organic traffic and credibility. |Technical Infrastructure and DeliverabilityA significant portion of the session is dedicated to the technical "hygiene" required to maintain high deliverability. Favour introduces Google Postmaster as an essential tool for monitoring domain health and ensuring that communications are not flagged as spam. The technical setup involves a rigorous configuration of DNS records, including MX, SPF, and DKIM, which serve as the digital credentials for a legitimate sender. Furthermore, the discussion touches upon the physical properties of an email, such as file size and font optimization, which can inadvertently trigger spam filters if not managed correctly.| Technical Component | Purpose | Best Practice || Google Postmaster| Domain Health Monitoring | Regularly check [postmaster.google.com](https://postmaster.google.com). || MX, SPF, DKIM | Authentication & Compliance | Ensure all DNS records are correctly configured. || List Hygiene | Deliverability Maintenance | Clean the list after every campaign to remove bounces. || Email Size| Spam Prevention | Use standard fonts (16px-20px) to keep file sizes low. || Segmentation| Engagement Tracking | Group audiences by behavior or interest for targeted messaging. |Content Strategy and Audience EngagementFavour and his guests, including the developer Ifeanyi, discuss the shift toward more sophisticated, developer-friendly tools like Resend, which allow for scalable, code-driven email templates. The consensus is that modern audiences do not "read" in the traditional sense; instead, they "skim" for value. Consequently, the use of listicles, bullet points, and concise subject lines is paramount.A professional subject line should ideally be limited to three or four words to avoid appearing "junior," while the preview text should be leveraged to provide the necessary context that encourages a click.The session concludes with a call for intentionality in marketing. Favour suggests a "Want vs. Need" framework: use the subject line to address what the audience *wants* (immediate value or curiosity), and use the body of the email to deliver what they *need* (tutorials, case studies, or interactive elements like polls). This approach ensures that the communication is not just seen, but acted upon.Podcast Episode Timestamps[00:00] – Introduction to the role of email in documentation and professional communication.[01:03] – Favour Obasi-ike's background in intellectual property and search engine marketing.[02:35] – Comparative analysis of conversion rates across social media, SEO, and email.[04:50] – Technical requirements for deliverability: Google Postmaster and MX record configuration.[06:16] – Reflections on the "We Don't PLAY™️" podcast and Favour's six-year tenure on Clubhouse.[22:37] – The impact of font selection and email file size on technical deliverability.[23:53] – Strategies for audience segmentation and the importance of reviewing engagement analytics.[24:26] – Managing hard and soft bounces through consistent list hygiene.[28:44] – Guest contribution from Ifeanyi on using "Resend" and React for scalable email infrastructure.[45:20] – Timing strategies: Measuring audience activity windows for optimal email delivery.[46:25] – The psychology of subject lines: Why brevity (3-4 words) signals professional maturity.[47:43] – The "Want vs. Need" framework for content delivery and engagement.[49:36] – Utilizing polls for market research: A case study on Google vs. Perplexity preferences.[52:02] – The efficacy of listicles and skimming-friendly formats in modern digital communication.About Favour Obasi-ikeFavour Obasi-ike is a prominent business consultant and entrepreneur specializing in helping creators and business owners secure their intellectual property through search engine marketing, Pinterest, and podcasting. He is the host of the "We Don't PLAY™️" podcast, a long-running series with over 610+ episodes spanning seven years.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
In this insightful session, Favour Obasi-ike, MBA, MS, a seasoned marketing expert, delves into the intricacies of launching and sustaining a profitable podcast. This episode is a goldmine for anyone looking to move beyond just creating content and build a podcast that generates both impact and income. Favour breaks down the essential strategies for creating a podcast that stands out and delivers tangible results.This session is a must-listen for aspiring and current podcasters who want to understand the business of podcasting. Favour provides a clear roadmap for building a strong foundation for your podcast, from establishing a web presence to leveraging SEO for discoverability. If you're ready to take your podcast to the next level, this episode is packed with actionable advice and expert insights.Need to Book An SEO Discovery Call for Advertising or Marketing Services?>> Book a Complimentary SEO Discovery Call with Favour Obasi-Ike>> Visit Work and PLAY Entertainment website to learn about our digital marketing services>> Join our exclusive SEO Marketing community>> Read SEO Articles>> Subscribe to the We Don't PLAY Podcast>> Purchase Flaev Beatz Beats OnlineIn this episode, you'll learn:[03:34] The foundational idea behind a profitable podcast: impact.[05:34] Why your podcast needs its own website and domain.[08:00] The importance of email capture for building a direct relationship with your audience.[10:10] How to think of your podcast as a separate entity from your main business.[11:06] The concept of creating and building capacity for your podcast.[14:00] How to create a content bank and repurpose your podcast content.[20:01] The significance of SEO in podcasting and how to optimize your show notes.[30:04] How to use your podcast to build a community and generate leads.[39:15] The power of anchor text and how to use it to drive traffic to your website.[43:21] The importance of choosing the right genre and categories for your podcast.[50:00] How to create a content strategy that aligns with your business goals.[59:01] The value of guesting on other podcasts to expand your reach.[01:05:00] How to use your podcast to build a personal brand and establish yourself as an expert in your niche.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Are you ready to take your podcast from a passion project to a monetization-based international business advertising/marketing tool? In this comprehensive episode, host Favour Obasi-ike, MBA, MS delivers an in-depth masterclass on leveraging podcast SEO and monetization strategies for international business growth. This session is the final installment in a series focused on helping podcasters and business owners build sustainable, globally-reaching content strategies.Favour explores the critical intersection of podcasting, search engine optimization, and international business development. The episode covers essential topics including multilingual content localization, performance benchmarks, download metrics, and how to position podcasts for passive monetization through advertising networks.Key highlights include real-world success stories from clients who have transformed their podcasts into powerful SEO assets, including a case study of turning 50 podcast episodes into 50 optimized blog posts that now rank on Google's AI-powered search results. Favour also demonstrates how his own podcast appears in Google's featured snippets and AI mode results, providing concrete proof of the strategies discussed.The episode features interactive discussions with community members Juliana, Celeste, and others who share their own experiences with SEO implementation, AI optimization (AIO), and the tangible business results they've achieved. Juliana shares an exciting success story about landing a major client through Google Gemini recommendations, directly attributable to SEO work completed three years prior with FavourThis episode is essential listening for podcasters, content creators, coaches, consultants, and international business owners who want to understand how to build long-term digital assets, increase discoverability across global markets, and create multiple revenue streams through strategic content optimization.Need to Book An SEO Discovery Call for Advertising or Marketing Services?>> Book a Complimentary SEO Discovery Call with Favour Obasi-Ike>> Visit Work and PLAY Entertainment website to learn about our digital marketing services>> Join our exclusive SEO Marketing community>> Read SEO Articles>> Subscribe to the We Don't PLAY Podcast>> Purchase Flaev Beatz Beats OnlineWhat You'll Learn:International SEO Fundamentals: How to optimize your podcast content for multiple languages, regions, and search engines (Google.com, Google.co.uk, and beyond).Monetization Metrics That Matter: Understanding downloads vs. unique listeners, 7-day and 30-day performance benchmarks, and what advertising networks look for.Multilingual Content Strategy: Leveraging localization and translation features to expand your audience across different cultures and languages.Podcast-to-Blog Conversion: The proven method of turning podcast episodes into SEO-optimized blog posts that rank on Google and drive traffic back to your audio content.AI Optimization (AIO): How to position your content to appear in Google's AI mode, featured snippets, and AI-powered recommendation engines like Google Gemini.Real Results: Case studies including a client whose emotional coaching podcast now ranks on Google, and a CPA who landed a major client through Gemini AI recommendations.Long-Term Asset Building: Why SEO is a marathon, not a sprint, and how work done today pays dividends for years to come.Detailed Episode TimestampsIntroduction & Overview (00:00 - 05:55) 00:00 - 00:13: Episode title: "Podcast SEO Monetization for International Businesses". 00:13 - 00:45: Welcome and call to subscribe to We Don't Play Podcast. 00:45 - 01:27: Overview: International business connections through podcasting. 01:27 - 02:31: Performance benchmarks: Downloads vs. unique listeners, measuring success. 02:31 - 03:33: Building sustainable growth and niche dominance. 03:33 - 04:48: Multilingual content and localization strategies. 04:48 - 05:55: International perspective: Moving beyond regional thinking.International SEO Strategy (05:55 - 10:03) 05:55 - 06:58: Analytics insights: Tracking international audience growth. 06:58 - 08:04: Case study introduction: Client success with emotional coaching podcast. 08:04 - 09:09: Turning 50 podcast episodes into 50 SEO-optimized blogs. 09:09 - 10:03: Podcast-to-blog strategy and long-term asset building.Content Conversion & Client Success Stories (10:03 - 15:00) 10:03 - 11:00: Amazon book-to-podcast conversion strategy. 11:00 - 12:00: Passive vs. active content consumption patterns. 12:00 - 13:00: Multi-platform distribution: Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube. 13:00 - 14:00: Clubhouse as a content creation and community building platform. 14:00 - 15:00: Real-time engagement and relationship building.Technical SEO Implementation (15:00 - 20:00) 15:00 - 16:00: Search engine algorithms and content discoverability. 16:00 - 17:00: Metadata optimization for podcasts. 17:00 - 18:00: Location-specific SEO strategies. 18:00 - 19:00: Building booking systems and conversion pathways. 19:00 - 20:00: Creating "red carpet" experiences for potential clients.Monetization Strategies (20:00 - 25:00) 20:00 - 21:00: Advertising network requirements and download thresholds. 21:00 - 22:00: Passive income through podcast monetization. 22:00 - 23:00: Building credibility through consistent content. 23:00 - 24:00: Long-term revenue stream development. 24:00 - 25:00: International market opportunities.Community Engagement & Live Discussion (25:00 - 30:00) 25:00 - 26:22: Community building on Clubhouse since 2020. 26:22 - 27:40: Prayer and intentionality in content creation. 27:40 - 28:40: Daily room commitment and audience engagement. 28:40 - 29:19: Juliana's Success Story: Landing a major CPA client through Google Gemini. 29:19 - 30:00: AI Optimization (AIO) and its importance.AI-Powered Search Results (30:00 - 35:00) 30:00 - 31:11: SEO as a long-term investment: Results from work done 3 years ago. 31:11 - 32:30: Live Demonstration: Host's podcast appearing in Google AI mode with timestamp references. 32:30 - 33:50: Dual focus: Local search dominance + global revenue streams. 33:50 - 34:30: International markets and currency considerations (Shopify example). 34:30 - 35:00: Technical factors: IP address, API, LLM, search history.Actionable Strategies & Takeaways (35:00 - 39:07) 35:00 - 35:50: Being intentional about topics of interest. 35:50 - 36:20: Importance of independent research and validation. 36:20 - 37:18: Celeste's Reflection: Community value and 2026 goals. 37:18 - 38:00: Top 3 priorities: Booking system, financial management, business structure. 38:00 - 38:46: Encouragement and resources for implementation. 38:46 - 39:07: Closing remarks and invitation to daily rooms.This episode is perfect for:Podcasters looking to monetize their content.International business owners seeking global visibility.Coaches and consultants building authority online.Content creators wanting to maximize their reach.Marketers interested in AI optimization strategies.Episode Tags/KeywordsPodcast SEO, International Business, Podcast Monetization, Multilingual Content, Content Localization, AI Optimization, AIO, Google Gemini, Featured Snippets, Download Metrics, Passive Income, Content Repurposing, Blog Strategy, Digital Marketing, Search Engine Optimization, Global Revenue Streams, Podcast Analytics, Advertising Networks, Authority Building, Long-term Strategy, Clubhouse Marketing, Community Building, Business Growth, Online Visibility, International Markets.Target AudiencePodcasters seeking monetization strategies.International business owners.Digital marketers and SEO professionals.Coaches and consultants.Content creators and influencers.Entrepreneurs building online presence.Small business owners expanding globally.Marketing professionals learning AI optimization.Anyone interested in passive income through content.This episode is part of the We Don't PLAY!™️ Podcast series, hosted by Favour Obasi-Ike, focusing on practical digital marketing strategies for business growth.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Combining a business with a podcast creates a powerful "win-win" scenario for national brands. This episode, Favour Obasi-ike, MBA, MS unpacks how to transform your podcast from a simple communication channel into a strategic, long-term business asset. The core mission is to educate and inform your audience with valuable content that builds authority and keeps them returning. By focusing on foundational SEO, strategic content creation, and data-driven analytics, businesses can create evergreen assets that drive monetization. This approach shifts the focus from fleeting social media metrics to lasting search intent, ensuring your content serves your audience precisely when they need it, paving the way for profitable growth through advertisements, sponsorships, and subscriptions.Host Information & ResourcesReady to apply these strategies to your business? Visit playinc.online or click the link in the show description to schedule a complimentary 30-minute website audit.Favour will personally send you a recording of the audit, showing you what's happening from the outside looking in, and provide actionable next steps.Need to Book An SEO Discovery Call for Advertising or Marketing Services?>> Book a Complimentary SEO Discovery Call with Favour Obasi-Ike>> Visit Work and PLAY Entertainment website to learn about our digital marketing services>> Join our exclusive SEO Marketing community>> Read SEO Articles>> Subscribe to the We Don't PLAY Podcast>> Purchase Flaev Beatz Beats Online--------------------------------------------------------------------------------Key Topics & Timestamps1. [00:00] Introduction: The Power of Podcasting for BusinessesThis session is the third installment in a comprehensive series exploring podcasting strategies for local, regional, national, and international businesses. The central argument is that a podcast is more than just a marketing tool; when paired with a business, it becomes a win-win engine for growth. The fundamental mission of any business podcast is to educate and inform its audience, providing value that fosters loyalty and repeat engagement. However, before a business can effectively monetize its content, it must first establish a solid, discoverable presence within the vast podcasting ecosystem.2. [02:15] Foundational SEO: Is Your Podcast Discoverable?Monetization is impossible if your target audience cannot find your show. The first and most critical step for any business podcaster is to verify that their show is listed and discoverable across the podcast ecosystem. This foundational presence is the bedrock upon which all growth and revenue strategies are built. You can use the following free tools to check your podcast's visibility:• pod.link• ivy.fm• listennotes.comOnce you've confirmed your podcast is registered and accessible, you can begin to implement the core monetization strategies that this discoverability enables.3. [04:30] Three Pillars of Monetization: An OverviewThe world of podcast monetization can be complex and overwhelming. To simplify the process, this episode focuses on three primary methods that form the foundation of a sustainable revenue strategy. By understanding these core pillars, you can choose the path that best aligns with your business goals and audience. The three monetization models are:1. Advertisements2. Sponsorships3. SubscriptionsThe effectiveness of these strategies is often determined by a crucial technical decision made at the very beginning of the podcasting journey: the choice of a hosting platform.4. [06:00] Strategic Decision 1: Choosing Your Hosting PlatformSelecting a podcast host is not merely a technical detail; it is a strategic business decision that directly impacts your ability to generate revenue. It is crucial to choose a platform that is IAB (Interactive Advertising Bureau) certified, as this is often a prerequisite for receiving ads from major networks. Your hosting platform manages your RSS (Really Simple Syndication) feed, which is the technology responsible for distributing your episodes to directories like Apple Podcasts and Spotify. This RSS feed is the gateway to monetization, and it contains a surprisingly powerful and often overlooked setting that directly impacts your national reach: the language selection.5. [08:45] The Underrated National SEO Tactic: Language SelectionSmall technical settings can have an outsized impact on audience reach, and the language selection within your RSS feed is a prime example for national businesses. Correctly setting your podcast's language codec is a powerful and underrated SEO tactic. For a national business operating in the United States, for instance, setting the language to English, United States signals to algorithms that your content is specifically relevant to that national audience. This simple choice places your show "within that bracket in the algorithm," because as the speaker emphasizes, "nation and language go together."6. [12:10] The 2026 Strategy: From Fleeting Reach to Lasting IntentIn a world of short-term social media metrics, the key to long-term success is building durable, evergreen assets. While a social media post can become "obsolete tomorrow," a podcast episode focused on search intent can serve an audience for years to come. The strategic goal for 2026 and beyond is to shift focus from impressions and reach to intent. As illustrated by the "how to tie a tie" analogy, intent-driven content provides a solution at the exact moment a person needs it, creating a powerful and valuable connection that builds trust and authority.7. [15:30] Data-Driven Monetization: Using Analytics to Find OpportunityMonetization should never be based on guesswork. Podcast analytics provide the data necessary to uncover specific, actionable opportunities within your listener base. By analyzing your listener data, a national business can move from broad assumptions to targeted strategies. Your analytics can answer critical questions like:• Which are the top 5 cities listening to your show?• Which states, zip codes, counties, or districts have the most listeners?• What day of the week and time of day generate the most engagement?This data is invaluable. It allows a business to strategically partner with influencers in high-engagement cities, target sponsorships to specific regions, or schedule episode releases for maximum impact, turning insights into income.8. [18:00] Monetization Models In-Depth: Profit vs. AccessibilityThe best monetization model depends on your business's goals, specifically the balance between maximizing audience access and maximizing profit margins. Each of the three primary models offers a different trade-off. While a business can choose any model, they can also be viewed as a strategic progression: using advertisements to build broad awareness, leveraging that audience for targeted sponsorships, and finally converting the most dedicated listeners into high-value subscribers.Advertisements• Accessibility: High• Profit: Low• CPM: ~$10 - $30• Analysis: This model is ideal for building broad brand awareness. While direct profit is lower, the high accessibility generates significant activity and gets your brand name in front of the largest possible audience.Sponsorships• Accessibility: Low• Profit: Moderate• CPM: ~$25 - $50 (with rates around 40−50 being for highly targeted, premium placements)• Analysis: Sponsorships are more targeted and context-driven, focusing on a specific audience or niche. Because the partnership is more direct and relevant to the listener, the profit potential is higher than with general advertisements.Subscriptions• Accessibility: Varies (requires a private offering)• Profit: High potential• Mechanism: This model is typically executed by offering exclusive bonus content through a private RSS feed, which is separate from the public feed that distributes to apps like Apple and Spotify. A subscription can unlock access to a private community, a members-only forum, a swag bag, or exclusive meetups, creating a high-value offering for your most dedicated listeners.9. [24:00] Content in Action: Podcast Formats & SEO ChecklistSuccessful podcasting requires a deliberate approach to both the creative format of your content and the technical SEO that ensures it gets discovered. Mastering these elements will position your podcast for maximum impact and growth.Podcast Formats to Consider: ◦ Solo (Monologue) ◦ Interview ◦ Co-host ◦ Roundtable (three or more people) ◦ Theme / FacelessEssential Podcast SEO Checklist: ◦ Podcast Title ◦ Author Name ◦ Podcast Description ◦ Episode Title ◦ Episode Description ◦ Podcast Art Cover ◦ Episode Art CoverBy optimizing these foundational elements, you ensure that every episode you produce has the best possible chance of reaching its intended audience and contributing to your business's bottom line.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Favour Obasi-ike, MBA, MS introduces this episode reframes “monetization” as a value exchange, built on the core truth that “there's no conversion that started without a conversation.” It presents a strategic model where financial returns are the natural result of building trust through dialogue. Applying this specifically to regional businesses, the discussion outlines strategic podcasting techniques to improve search engine visibility and drive revenue.The key tactic is the deliberate use of geographic keywords within episode titles, scripts, and author fields to dominate local search results. By treating a podcast as permanent intellectual property rather than just a marketing tool, businesses create a lasting reference point that validates their brand through expert conversations, building consumer trust and market authority.This value-exchange model is powered by converting listener attention into growth through methods like pre-roll ads, affiliate partnerships, and private subscriptions. Furthermore, the speaker advises using analytics to identify high-performing locations, allowing businesses to refine their content and promotional strategies for specific audiences. Ultimately, consistent, helpful audio content serves as the foundational engine for long-term customer loyalty, where monetization is the direct outcome of the deep relationships built through strategic, SEO-focused conversations.Key Takeaways: Actionable Insights• Local First, Regional Second: Even international brands are local to someone. The foundational strategy is to dominate your immediate search radius (5-25 miles) by embedding location-specific keywords—such as city, state, province, or zip code—directly into your podcast titles, spoken content, and show notes. This ensures you are discoverable by the customers actively searching for services in your specific operational areas.• Conversation Before Conversion: The speaker's primary argument is that trust is the essential precursor to any transaction. A podcast's main function should be to initiate meaningful conversations and consistently answer customer questions. This process naturally builds the credibility and trust required to guide a listener toward becoming a loyal customer, making the "sale" a frictionless conclusion to a relationship, not a high-pressure pitch.• Podcast as an Intellectual Property Asset: Your podcast should be treated as a core business asset, on par with your domain name or email list. It functions as a permanent, searchable "place of reference" that validates your expertise and builds long-term equity. As the speaker notes, a successful podcast creates listenership, authorship, and readership—"it's a lot of ship sailing"—that expands into partnerships and affiliate relationships.• Give Them What They Want, Then What They Need: This two-step engagement strategy is crucial for audience growth and retention. The speaker reveals their strategic thinking: "Give them what they need first, right? Let me actually put it this way. Give them what they want and then give them what they need." First, attract new listeners with content that answers what they want (their direct search queries). Then, build loyalty and authority by providing the deeper, more valuable content they truly need.Concluding TransitionWith these foundational principles established, the episode transitions into the specific, tactical SEO strategies that bring this value-driven approach to life.Need to Book An SEO Discovery Call for Advertising or Marketing Services?>> Book a Complimentary SEO Discovery Call with Favour Obasi-Ike>> Visit Work and PLAY Entertainment website to learn about our digital marketing services>> Join our exclusive SEO Marketing community>> Read SEO Articles>> Subscribe to the We Don't PLAY Podcast>> Purchase Flaev Beatz Beats OnlineTimestamped Segments• [00:00:00] Introduction: Why Regional Businesses Need Podcast SEO ◦ Favour outlines the opportunity for regional businesses to build trust, loyalty, and brand awareness through location-focused content.• [00:05:15] The Core Strategy: Hyper-Local Targeting ◦ Details on how to use specific city, state, and province names in episode titles and spoken scripts to attract local search traffic.• [00:09:30] Redefining Monetization: Trust and Conversation ◦ Favour argues that monetization is an outcome of trust, which is built through valuable conversations, not direct sales pitches.• [00:14:00] Tactical Content Planning ◦ Keyword Strategy: How to build content around core business keywords (e.g., "cooking") and then niche down into specifics ("vegan cooking," "pressure cooking"). ◦ FAQ Episodes: The strategy of creating dedicated FAQ episodes for each business location to address unique regional customer questions. ◦ The "Album Drop" Strategy: An explanation of releasing all location-specific FAQ episodes simultaneously to maximize reach and impact.• [00:21:45] Advanced SEO & Platform Tactics ◦ Author Name Optimization: How to structure the podcast's "author" field to include business locations (e.g., "My Restaurant | Seattle | Honolulu | Las Vegas"). ◦ The Power of Voice: Imagine listening to your brand's CEO sending a message directly to you, "documenting their journey with you on live mode" - this tactic creates a permanent "reference point" that builds unparalleled trust.• [00:28:10] The Podcast as a Business Asset ◦ Positioning the podcast as a core piece of intellectual property that builds listenership, authorship, partnerships, and affiliate relationships.• [00:32:00] Monetization Mechanics Explained ◦ A breakdown of ad formats like pre-rolls, mid-rolls, and post-rolls, comparing them to YouTube's ad model. ◦ Discussion on building private, subscription-based podcasts for premium content.• [00:41:00] Live Q&A: Getting Started with Podcasting (with Kelcey) ◦ A new podcaster asks for advice on where to start with her faith-based podcast and monetization.• [00:55:30] Core Digital Assets: Domain & Email List ◦ The speaker emphasizes that your domain and email list are critical assets, using the analogy: "Just like you have an address and a mail box is the same way you have a website and a mailbox."• [01:05:00] Closing Remarks and Call to Action ◦ Favour summarizes the key points and directs listeners to connect for a free audit.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Podcast SEO and monetization strategies tailored for local businesses is today's episode discussion. Favour Obasi-ike emphasizes the importance of metadata, noting that elements like podcast titles, descriptions, and author names serve as critical search signals for discovery.By treats these fields as structured data, creators can establish local authority and ensure their content surfaces in specific user queries across platforms like Spotify and Apple Podcasts.The source further highlights the compounding value of backlinking, explaining how consistent episode releases create a vast network of searchable links that drive traffic back to a brand's website. Ultimately, the text argues that a well-optimized podcast acts as a long-term intellectual property asset that builds credibility and solves audience problems through searchable, evergreen audio content.In the 2026 search ecosystem, local visibility is no longer a matter of chance; it is a matter of engineering. This episode serves as a strategic blueprint for local businesses to command "page dominance" by transforming audio content into a high-authority digital asset. By deploying a "spread map" strategy—scaling influence from local roots to international authority—business owners can ensure their brand is the definitive answer to specific consumer queries.The objective is to move beyond the "hobbyist" mindset and treat podcasting as a capital-efficient SEO machine. We explore how to build an "engine" that runs independently via technical metadata and RSS syndication, allowing your brand to reside permanently in the search database.Key Takeaways for Local Business Owners1. Metadata is Your Search ID: Your title, author field, and description must match the exact phrases your customers use. If your "ID" doesn't match the search query, the algorithm cannot process your "legal documents," and your business remains invisible.2. Exploit the 50x50 Rule: Syndication is a volume game. By appearing on 50 platforms, you create thousands of high-authority backlinks. This sheer volume of structured data makes your brand unavoidable in local searches.3. Implementation over Information: ROI is the result of action, not note-taking. Podcasting is a long-term index fund for your brand; the earlier you start the "audio documentation," the more interest your digital legacy accrues. Move from "doer" to "architect" today.Need to Book An Appointment?>> Book a Complimentary SEO Discovery Call with Favour Obasi-Ike>> Visit Work and PLAY Entertainment website to learn about our digital marketing services>> Join our exclusive SEO Marketing community>> Read SEO Articles>> Subscribe to the We Don't PLAY Podcast>> Purchase Flaev Beatz Beats OnlinePodcast Timestamps[00:00:00] – The Spread Map: Establishing the strategic journey from local business to international brand authority.[00:03:00] – Statistical Authority: Reviewing personal benchmarks (600 episodes, 156 countries) as a model for growth.[00:06:00] – The Harry Potter Paradox: Why naming your show for the "benefit" is the only way to be found before you are famous.[00:10:00] – The Psychology of Blue Links: Why "Blue Links" signify trust and confidence in the search results.[00:14:00] – Spotify Signal Case Study: Using the phrase "workout habits for men over 40" to identify exact-match search signals.[00:22:00] – Compounding Link Math: The 50x50 breakdown of how to generate 2,500 links across platforms like SiriusXM and iHeart.[00:31:00] – The Celese Interaction: Overcoming ADHD and task-paralysis by choosing documentation over perfection.[00:45:00] – The Legacy Challenge: Transitioning from a task-based worker to a legacy-based brand architect.The Mathematics of Syndication & The "Compounding Effect"Strategic dominance is a function of Depth and Cadence. While frequency is important, "Depth" is determined by your average episode length. A 60-minute episode provides sixty times more data points for an algorithm to index than a one-minute clip.The true ROI of podcasting is found in the Compounding Link Formula:50 Episodes (One year of weekly audio documentation) x 50 Distribution Platforms (Apple, Spotify, SiriusXM, Podchaser, Castbox, iHeart, etc.) = 2,500 High-Authority BacklinksThis volume creates a "digital balloon that never pops." As you add more helium (content), the structure becomes stiffer and more secure. To maximize this, maintain a Cadence (release cycle) closer to "1" (daily). A faster cadence spins the RSS feed more frequently, signaling to search engines that your brand is an active, relevant authority.The following 15 monetization levers are the tactical parameters required to convert conversational documentation into long-term ROI and a lasting digital legacy.Episode Breakdown on the 15 Monetization StrategiesPART 1: CORE DISCOVERY METADATA (Your Digital ID Card)1. Podcast TitleExecution: Match the show name to the specific topic or core benefit your audience seeks.So What? Listeners search for solutions and interests, not your name. A descriptive title ensures discoverability in search before you have a famous brand.2. Podcast DescriptionExecution: Exploit the full ~4,000-character limit as a "Search Bank." Use refined keywords, clear value propositions, and a strong call-to-action.So What? This is your show's primary Search ID. If it doesn't match user queries, algorithms can't "read" or rank your content effectively.3. Author/Host FieldExecution: Strategically expand your name with professional identifiers (e.g., "Alex Chen | Venture Capital Analyst").So What? This data feeds APIs and LLMs, establishing your niche authority within recommendation systems and digital assistants.4. Genre & Category SelectionExecution: Use platform hierarchies (e.g., ListenNotes, Apple) to select precise Primary, Secondary, and Tertiary categories.So What? Correct categorization moves you from competing with millions of general shows to dominating a specific, interested listener ecosystem.5. Episode TitleExecution: Adopt a clear, "Guest-First" or "Topic-First" naming convention (e.g., "Dr. Sarah Lee: The Neuroscience of Sleep").So What? It maximizes clarity for listeners and SEO. A guest's name at the front captures their audience and amplifies "link juice" to that episode URL.6. Episode DescriptionExecution: Implement web-style formatting: use H2/H3 headers, bullet points, timestamps, and hyperlinks to key resources.So What? Structured data helps both listeners scan and bots "dissect" your content, boosting engagement metrics and canonical linking power.PART 2: VISUAL & TECHNICAL EXECUTION7. Podcast Cover ArtExecution: Command professionalism with compliant, 3000 x 3000 pixels, visually simple art that is legible at thumbnail size.So What? High-quality, optimized art provides an immediate competitive edge against the significant portion of shows using amateur visuals.8. Episode Cover Art (Optional but Powerful)Execution: For key interviews, create guest-centric visuals that differ from your main show art.So What? Visual differentiation in a subscriber's feed signals unique, fresh value, increasing click-through rates for specific high-interest topics.9. Ad Roll PlacementsExecution: Strategically engineer ad breaks: pre-roll (for direct response), mid-roll (for highest attention), post-roll (for brand storytelling).So What? These are primary monetization vehicles. Placement affects listener retention and ad performance by capturing attention at different psychological stages.10. RSS Feed ManagementExecution: Balance your public RSS feed with private, gated feeds (via platforms like Hello Audio or Supercast) for bonus or premium content.So What? Private feeds enable direct community monetization and foster loyalty by delivering exclusive, "trust-based" content to high-value subscribers.PART 3: DISTRIBUTION & AMPLIFICATION11. Email & Affiliate LeverageExecution: Use automated tools to turn podcast transcripts into newsletter content that drives traffic to affiliate offers or key resources.So What? This captures high-intent listeners where they live (their inbox), converting passive listening into measurable action.12. Social Media DistributionExecution: Systematically cross-post short, thematic audio clips (with captions and video) to platforms like LinkedIn and Instagram.So What? It transforms one hour of recording into weeks of "top-of-funnel" awareness, building connection volume and attracting new audiences.13. Backlink GenerationExecution: Understand that every major hosting platform (Spotify, Apple) creates a backlink to your website from your show profile.So What? This generates vital "link juice" from high-authority domains, strengthening your primary website's search engine ranking.14. Website Integration & AnalyticsExecution: Host a dedicated podcast page on your site and connect it to Google Search Console.So What? This allows you to track how people find and interact with your podcast via search, providing data to refine your topic and keyword strategy.15. Sonic Branding (Musical Intelligence)Execution: Deploy a distinct instrumental theme for each season or series.So What? A fresh sonic identity signals a new "era" or focus for your show, boosting production value and maintaining listener retention through auditory novelty.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
This episode unpacks how Eventbrite marketing and SEO can be used to grow a business and sell tickets through organic search. Favour Obasi-ike emphasizes that placing targeted keywords at the beginning of event titles is crucial for creating effective URL (uniform resource locators) slugs that rank well on search engines. To build trust and boost visibility, event organizers should also embed YouTube videos and utilize back-linking strategies within event descriptions. Real-world case studies discussed illustrate that scheduling events at least one month in advance allows search algorithms sufficient time to index the content and reach potential attendees. Even after an event concludes, Favour notes that active links continue to drive traffic, serving as a long-term asset for brand awareness. Ultimately, the source advocates for a data-driven approach that combines strategic messaging with technical SEO to ensure sustainable audience growth.Need to Book An Appointment?>> Book a Complimentary SEO Discovery Call with Favour Obasi-Ike>> Visit Work and PLAY Entertainment website to learn about our digital marketing services>> Join our exclusive SEO Marketing community>> Read SEO Articles>> Subscribe to the We Don't PLAY Podcast>> Purchase Flaev Beatz Beats OnlineEpisode Timestamps[00:00:00] Introduction: Why Eventbrite is a Hidden SEO GoldmineThe episode begins by positioning Eventbrite as a critical platform for business marketing, lead generation, and product promotion, beyond mere event discovery. The emphasis is on creating every listing with the "searcher's benefit" in mind, focusing on how the event serves the needs of a potential attendee actively searching for a solution. This strategic mindset is the key to unlocking the platform's potential and leads directly into the most critical setup step for organic success.[00:05:30] The Single Most Important SEO Factor: Your Event TitleThe event title is presented as the most crucial element for SEO success because it directly generates the event's URL slug. Placing primary keywords at the beginning of the title ensures they appear at the start of the URL, dramatically improving visibility on Google and Eventbrite. Conversely, placing keywords at the end creates a less effective URL and weakens search ranking from the outset. Getting this step wrong can undermine the entire organic marketing effort.[00:12:15] The Long-Term Value of an Eventbrite ListingA unique feature of Eventbrite is that its event links remain active and discoverable long after an event ends. These expired listings function as permanent digital assets that continue to house links to websites, YouTube videos, and other resources. As such, an old event page acts as a long-term digital billboard, continuously driving traffic and brand visibility for months or years. This sets the stage for a practical case study.[00:17:45] Case Study 1: The Wreath-Making Workshop (A Paid Event Strategy)This case study demonstrates timing, targeting, and iterative improvement by combining organic SEO with minimal paid ads. A client's first workshop failed due to a two-week lead time, which was insufficient for search engine indexing. For the second attempt, strategic changes were made: scheduling four weeks in advance for algorithm indexing, creating a high-quality 4K promotional video, and running hyper-targeted Facebook ads with a $5/day test budget aimed at building community. The result was a sold-out event, providing a repeatable formula for marketing local, paid events.[00:31:00] Technical SEO Deep Dive: Why Your Website Pages Get De-IndexedThis section explains technical reasons for losing search ranking over time. Key factors include the "Last Modified" date in a website's XML sitemap, which signals content freshness to search engines; the 24-month lifespan of a blog post's SEO relevance if left untouched; and the actionable "update rule" of updating two old pages for every new one published. A contrast is drawn with podcast RSS feeds, which re-index the entire channel with each new episode, highlighting a unique SEO benefit of podcasting. This reinforces the importance of an updated digital presence to support event marketing.[00:48:15] Case Study 2: The Junk Journaling Workshop (A Free Event Strategy)This case study proves the core SEO principles work for a free event launched by a brand-new account with zero prior audience. The client created a new Eventbrite listing for a niche craft workshop with one month of lead time. Relying purely on organic discovery, all 10 free slots sold out to unknown attendees. The 10 conversions came from just 88 page views, indicating a highly effective, targeted listing. Page views continued to climb after sell-out, proving Eventbrite pages remain active SEO assets. The next step is community building.[00:55:30] The Post-Event Pivot: From Attendees to a CommunityThe conclusion shifts focus to the true metric of success: not just tickets sold, but building a returning community. The recommended strategy involves using a post-event QR code linked to a survey to gather feedback. For free events, this is a critical opportunity to ask attendees if they would return for a paid event, gauging future viability and gaining consent for upselling. This final step transforms a single event into a sustainable, community-driven business model.Memorable Quotes:"The fault begins with the message. And if the message is wrong, everybody is confused.""It's not about how many tickets were sold. It's how many people came, saw, went back, and came back again.""For every one page that you publish, update the last two that I just want to make it easy."Actionable Takeaways & Memorable QuotesTop 3 Actionable Takeaways:1. Prioritize Your Title: Always place your primary keywords (e.g., "Marketing Workshop," "Cooking Class") at the very beginning of your Eventbrite title to create an SEO-optimized URL slug.2. Respect the 3-Week Rule: Launch your event at least three to four weeks in advance. This gives search engine algorithms the necessary time to index your page and show it to relevant audiences organically.3. Plan the Post-Event Follow-Up: The event isn't over when it ends. Use a simple QR code survey to collect feedback and, for free events, to ask attendees if they would be willing to pay for a future version.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
The actionable local SEO and marketing strategies for businesses to implement in 2026 with Favour Obasi-ike. The primary recommendation involves using QR codes as digital lead magnets to bridge the gap between physical locations and online platforms. This further emphasizes the power of podcast appearances and high-authority PR backlinks to establish brand credibility and improve search engine rankings. Additionally, the discussion explores short-form video tactics on YouTube and Instagram as tools to drive traffic to specific landing pages or low-ticket offers. The speakers conclude that consistent data tracking and strategic positioning are essential for scaling a local business effectively.Next Steps for Booking A Discovery Call | Digital Marketing + SEO Services:>> Need SEO Services? Book a Complimentary SEO Discovery Call with Favour Obasi-Ike here>> Visit our Work and PLAY Entertainment website to learn about digital marketing services.>> Join our exclusive SEO Marketing community>> Read SEO Articles>> Subscribe to the We Don't PLAY Podcast>> Purchase Flaev Beatz Beats OnlineEpisode Timestamps & Key Takeaways1. The QR Code Renaissance: Your Digital Lead MagnetQR codes have re-emerged as a low-cost, high-impact tool for local marketing, serving as a powerful bridge between physical customer presence and digital engagement. More than just a link, a strategic QR code acts as a direct gateway for lead capture, data collection, and relationship building, turning passing interest into a measurable interaction.[00:02:30] The Core Tactic: Creating and Deploying QR Codes Implementing a successful QR code strategy involves a few key steps:Generation: Use a dedicated tool like flowcode.com to create a custom QR code.Destination Strategy: Instead of linking to a generic homepage, direct users to a specific, high-intent page on your website. This could be a contact page, location page, a special offer landing page, or an email list signup form. The goal is to make the next step clear and valuable.Physical Placement: Maximize local visibility by placing the QR code on a variety of physical assets, including brick-and-mortar storefront windows, flyers, business cards, leaflets, and even in collaboration with other local businesses like restaurants.[00:07:15] Case Study: The Loungewear Brand A 2023 case study of a loungewear client at the Arendelle Mills Mall demonstrates the power of this tactic. During the Christmas season, the business used QR codes to promote a raffle for a family loungewear set. Shoppers scanned the code to enter, which successfully:Built their email list with qualified, local leads.Drove both in-store and online sales by creating a direct engagement point.The campaign successfully accelerated their online business by focusing on the core brand message of family bonding, turning a simple raffle into a meaningful touchpoint that resonated with their target audience.[00:13:45] Critical Best Practices To ensure your QR code campaign is effective and avoids costly mistakes, follow these essential practices:Incentivize the Scan: Offer a compelling reason for someone to pull out their phone. Frame it as a gateway to exclusive sales, monthly offers, or entry into a contest.Test Before You Print: Before investing in hundreds of flyers or stickers, thoroughly test the QR code with multiple people and different devices to ensure it scans correctly and links to the right destination.Track the Interaction: On your backend system, verify that a scan is being registered. This is crucial for measuring the campaign's effectiveness and understanding user engagement.This direct, one-to-one engagement tactic sets the stage for a broader, community-focused strategy: live events.2. Front-End Offers: Building Community with EventsA "front-end offer" in this context is less about an immediate transaction and more about securing a customer's commitment. Local events are the perfect vehicle for this strategy, providing a platform to foster deeper relationships, build brand loyalty, and create a powerful feedback loop that traditional digital marketing often misses.[00:15:30] Case Study: The Junk Journaling Business This case study follows a client with a purely traditional, offline business and zero website traffic. The strategy and results were transformative:Problem: The client had zero website traffic and was operating a purely traditional, offline business, making them invisible to online search and limiting their growth to in-person interactions.Solution: The host advised creating a free, local event on Eventbrite. The event listing was strategically optimized with local SEO keywords like "junk journaling classes near me" to capture search intent.Results: Within just seven days, the Eventbrite page received 88 views. More impressively, all 10 available slots for the event—still a month away—were completely filled, validating immediate local demand.[00:23:00] The Post-Event Flywheel The value of a local event extends far beyond the event itself, creating a self-perpetuating cycle of engagement and growth:Deep Connection: Events provide a rare opportunity to build genuine, personal relationships with customers in a face-to-face setting.Network Effect: The "10 people know 10 people" principle comes into play. A small group of engaged attendees can quickly become powerful brand advocates, driving exponential word-of-mouth marketing.Feedback Loop: By using a QR code at the event, you can direct attendees to a survey. This gathers invaluable feedback for improving future events and understanding customer needs.Validating Paid Offers: The post-event survey is the perfect place to gauge interest in future paid workshops or events, allowing you to de-risk future business decisions by confirming demand before investing resources.From building community in person, the conversation shifts to scaling that trust and authority to a much wider digital audience.3. Podcast Guesting: Scaling Trust and AuthorityPodcast guesting is a powerful and often underutilized local SEO and public relations (PR) strategy. It offers a unique dual benefit: it builds personal brand trust through the intimate and authentic medium of voice, while simultaneously generating a high volume of valuable digital assets in the form of backlinks.[00:28:45] The Backlink Multiplier Effect Being a guest on a podcast is a superior backlink strategy compared to a simple guest article. A single podcast appearance can result in dozens of high-quality backlinks as the episode is syndicated across numerous platforms like Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeartRadio, and Pandora. Each platform that lists the episode with your name and website in the show notes creates a new backlink, amplifying your SEO impact from a single effort.[00:33:10] Building Your "Listen Score" Platforms like listennotes.com (using "Listen Score") and Podchaser.com (using "Power Score") provide metrics that quantify both audience trust and algorithmic credibility. Consistently appearing on podcasts directly improves these scores. A higher score signals to algorithms that you are a credible and relevant authority in your field, enhancing your overall brand authority and searchability.[00:36:00] Finding Your Platform Finding the right podcasts to appear on is a straightforward process:Recommended Tool: Use a podcast discovery platform like ivy.fm.Process: Search for topics relevant to your business or expertise. The tool will generate a list of relevant shows. From there, you can identify their contact information and craft a pitch to appear as a guest expert.The host's prepared tactics are then reinforced and expanded upon by real-world experiences from other experts who joined the discussion.4. Expert Discussion: Real-World PR, SEO, and Video StrategyIn the final segment, marketing experts Marc, John, and Pierre join the host to share recent experiences and insights, adding another layer of practical validation to the episode's core themes of PR, local SEO, and modern content strategy.[00:45:00] Mark's PR Case Study: The Power of a Single Backlink Marc shared two recent PR wins that perfectly illustrate the difference between brand presence and direct SEO value. The comparison highlights that the quality and type of a link are far more critical than the length of the feature.[00:58:15] John's YouTube & Low-Ticket Offer Strategy John provided a distilled look at his current content and sales funnel strategy, emphasizing speed and efficiency:YouTube Content Mix: He recommends a strategic blend of 30% shorts for top-of-funnel branding and discovery, combined with 70% long-form video for deeper audience engagement and education.Shorts-to-Revenue Funnel: An effective modern funnel uses shorts for the initial "branding" function—getting people to say, "Oh, yeah, that's interesting"—before driving traffic directly to a low-ticket offer ($27-$47) on a checkout page. This bypasses complex sales pages for high-volume, low-friction conversions.GeoGrid Inaccuracy: John noted that traditional local SEO geogrid mapping tools are becoming inaccurate. He shared an example where a manual, localized search showed his client in the top 3 results, while the geogrid software reported a rank of 8. This discrepancy demonstrates the unreliability of the tools and reinforces the need for new tracking methods.John's strategy provides a digital, high-velocity parallel to Tactic #2's front-end offers, using short-form video to secure low-friction commitment and rapidly build a revenue-generating audience.This expert discussion underscores the episode's key principles, bringing the focus back to the tangible actions listeners can take.Resources MentionedQR Code Generation: flowcode.comEvent Management: EventbritePodcast Discovery: ivy.fmPodcast Metrics: listennotes.com, Podchaser.comPrivacy-Focused Analytics: Fathom AnalyticsMarketing Experts Referenced: Maria Wendt, Joel Irway, Daniel Priestley, Sean Cannell, Daryl EavesConclusion & Call to ActionThis episode delivers a clear and compelling message: success in local marketing hinges on practical, strategic action. The tactics discussed—from QR codes and community events to podcasting and savvy PR—are not just theoretical concepts but proven methods for building visibility, trust, and revenue. The final challenge to the audience is to move from passive listening to active application. Choose one of these strategies, implement it for your business, and begin the journey to "listen, live, learn, and earn."See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Meet my friend Mckayla — SEO Strategist, blog content writer, and honestly, the queen of breaking SEO down so it finally makes sense.If you've been wondering why SEO suddenly feels like a buzzword (again), how it works in 2026, or what actually moves the needle when it comes to getting found online this episode is for you.Inside this episode we cover: Why SEO has exploded again and what's changing in the online space How SEO supports your entire visibility ecosystem (not just your website!) Why podcast guesting is secretly one of the most powerful SEO strategies you can use How to track your SEO growth so you actually know what's working Simple foundational steps to optimize your content, your website, and even your guest interviewsIf the words “SEO” or “blogging” ever felt overwhelming Mckayla makes it feel doable, fun, and actually strategic.Let's make 2026 the year people find you without you having to post 24/7.Connect with Mckayla: https://www.instagram.com/commamama.co/https://thecommamamaco.com/Free SEO Checklist: https://tcm.myflodesk.com/six-steps-to-better-seo
In this comprehensive episode, host Favour Obasi-ike, joined by guests Celese Williams, Dr. Fashion, and Ryan Dennis, cuts through the noise to deliver the five most essential SEO fixes small businesses must implement in 2026. Moving beyond abstract theory, the discussion provides a masterclass in actionable strategy, covering the non-negotiable foundations of site architecture, the currency of strategic link building, the revenue-killing impact of slow site speed, the power of dominating local search, and the technical integrations needed to get indexed and noticed by search engines.Next Steps for Booking A Discovery Call | Digital Marketing + SEO Services:>> Need SEO Services? Book a Complimentary SEO Discovery Call with Favour Obasi-Ike here>> Visit our Work and PLAY Entertainment website to learn about digital marketing services.>> Join our exclusive SEO Marketing community>> Read SEO Articles>> Subscribe to the We Don't PLAY PodcastKey TakeawaysMaster Your Site Architecture: A well-structured website with proper canonical tags, optimized images, and clear headings is the non-negotiable foundation for both user experience and search engine visibility.Treat Links as Currency: Strategically build internal and external links, ensuring every piece of content has a corresponding URL on your website to build authority and drive traffic from multiple sources.Prioritize Blazing-Fast Speed: A slow website kills conversions and rankings. Actively manage site speed through optimized hosting, a Content Delivery Network (CDN), and compressed media files.Dominate Your Geographic Area: For businesses serving specific areas, embedding location data (maps, zip codes, city names) directly into your site is crucial for capturing "near me"searches.Integrate to Accelerate: Directly connect your website to Google Search Console and Bing Webmaster Tools and manually submit new content to get indexed significantly faster than waiting for organic crawls.Detailed Show Notes & Timestamps[00:00:00] Introduction: Setting the Stage for 2026Host Favour Obasi-ike kicks off the new year by tackling the evergreen challenge of Search Engine Optimization. He frames "fixing" SEO not as a one-time task but as a continuous process of optimization that is fundamental to brand awareness, website traffic, and revenue growth. He provides an initial call to action, directing listeners to the link in the show description to book a consultation or subscribe to his email list for ongoing insights. With the stage set, the episode transitions into the first and most foundational technical fix for any small business website.[00:04:15] SEO Fix #1: Site Architecture - The Foundation of Your Digital PresenceSite architecture is the fundamental blueprint of a website, dictating how both users and search engine algorithms navigate, understand, and value its content. A strong architecture is the bedrockof any successful digital presence, ensuring content is organized, accessible, and easily discoverable.Key components of a robust site architecture include:Canonical Tags: A canonical tag tells search engines which version of a page is the "master copy," preventing duplicate content issues. As Favour Obasi-ike explains with the "Adam Apple"analogy, just as a person has one true name, your content must have one single, consistent identity recognized by search engines to avoid confusion.Image Optimization: Large, uncompressed image files are a primary cause of slow load times. Uploading images that are several megabytes in size will significantly degrade site performance and hurt search rankings.Link Health: Regularly checking for and fixing broken or duplicate links is essential for a clean and functional site structure.Website Updates: Using the "brushing your teeth" analogy, Favour Obasi-ike explains that keeping content and copyright dates current signals relevance. Search engines prioritize fresh, well-maintained content, and an outdated copyright date is a direct signal that a site may be abandoned or irrelevant.*Heading Tags (H1-H6):* Properly structured headings organize content for human readers and provide a clear hierarchy that helps search engines understand the main topics and subtopics of a page.URLs & Schema: Keyword-rich URLs (e.g., .../cookie-recipes) and schema markup (microdata for recipes, events, etc.) give search engines explicit context about a page's purpose, improving its chances of ranking for relevant queries.[00:14:30] Guest Spotlight: Celese Williams on Design, UX, and SEOGuest speaker Celese Williams distills her formula for a successful small business website into three core principles: simple design, easy user experience (UX), and findable SEO. She powerfully underscores this advice with her own success story, revealing that her "basic" but architecturally sound website generated $247,000 in revenue last year, proving that a solid foundation is more valuable than flashy design.With a solid architectural blueprint defined, the next strategic imperative is to establish realistic implementation timelines, which vary dramatically based on a business's starting point.[00:19:45] Strategy Session: SEO Timelines for New vs. Existing BusinessesDetermining a realistic timeline for SEO results is a common strategic challenge. The approach differs significantly for a business building its digital footprint from scratch versus one that is optimizing an existing but underperforming presence.Prospect ProfileProspect A: No online presence, thriving on referrals.6-12 Months: Building a digital foundation from the ground up requires significant time to establish authority, build content, and gain visibility. Favour Obasi-ike notes this timeline can be shortened to 3 months if a podcast is part of the strategy.Prospect B: Existing local presence, but not definitive.3-6 Months: Leveraging an existing foundation allows for a faster path to scalable results. The focus shifts from creation to optimization, building upon the authority the site already has.Celese Williams adds a critical counterpoint, emphasizing that industry competition is the ultimate "X factor" that can heavily influence any projected timeline. A business in a low-competition niche may see results faster, while one in a saturated market will face a longer road. From this high-level strategy, the focus shifts to the practical tactics of audience building across different platforms.[00:26:30] Community Q&A: Building a Social Media AudienceThis Q&A session addresses a common pain point for small businesses: how to efficiently build and maintain an audience across multiple social platforms without getting overwhelmed. The speakers offer a unified message centered on smart, focused distribution.Celese Williams' "Master a Few" Strategy:Trying to be on every platform is an unsustainable and difficult strategy.Businesses should focus on mastering the top 2-3 platforms where their target audience is most active and engaged.Dr. Fashion's "Smart Distribution" Method:She advocates for the "create once, distribute smartly" approach.This involves batch recording long-form content and using tools like repurpose.io to efficiently atomize and distribute it across various platforms, tailoring the hook for each audience.Favour Obasi-ike's "Ecosystem" Approach:He analyzes the importance of building a presence within a platform ecosystem like Meta (Facebook, Instagram, Threads, WhatsApp).He highlights the power of using long-form content, such as a podcast, as a source for dozens of micro-content pieces (clips, quotes, articles), which dramatically improves searchability and reach.[00:39:00] Case Study: The Power of Organic Keyword GrowthFavour Obasi-ike presents his own podcast as a powerful case study on the long-term value of consistent, high-quality content. He illustrates its organic keyword growth over just three months:Top 3 Keywords: Grew from 85 on October 13th to 198 in January.Top 10 Keywords: Grew from 91 on October 13th to 245 in January.Top 50 Keywords: Grew from 469 on October 13th to 1,196 in January.Top 100 Keywords: Grew from 238 on October 13th to 627 in January.This tangible growth demonstrates how a steady stream of relevant content creates a compounding interest effect on search visibility. The discussion on content distribution logically pivots back to a core SEO technical fix: the links that tie all that content together.[00:41:10] SEO Fix #2: Web Links - The Pathways to ProfitabilityLinks are the nervous system of a website, creating pathways that guide both users and search engines to valuable content. They are the currency of the internet, signaling authority and relevance.Favour Obasi-ike outlines a simple yet powerful three-step strategy for link building:Identify Core Products/Services: Begin with a clear understanding of what you sell. This focus will guide your keyword and content strategy.Embed Keywords in URLs: Create descriptive, keyword-rich URLs for every page (e.g., velvet.com/red-velvet-cookies). Avoid using "stop words" (like for, the, a), as they add no contextual value for search engines and make URLs longer and less focused.Match Social Posts to Website Links: Implement a *"1-to-1 match"* strategy. For every social media post you create, ensure there is a corresponding article or landing page on your own website. This ensures you are building authority for your domain, not just for the social media platform.Celese Williams enthusiastically endorses this approach, noting that SEO agencies charge clients $1,000 on the low end, up to $20,000-$30,000 on the high end for this exact strategy. However, a perfectly linked site is useless if it's too slow to load. This brings us to the third critical fix: optimizing for pure speed, a non-negotiable factor for both user retention and rankings.[00:52:15] SEO Fix #3: Site Speed - Winning the Race for AttentionIn 2026, website speed is a make-or-break SEO factor. A slow website directly harms user experience, increases bounce rates, kills conversions, and leads to lower search rankings. Google prioritizes sites that provide a fast, seamless experience for its users.Key actions for improving site speed include:Identify Performance Bottlenecks: Use a tool like GTmetrix.com to analyze your website's performance and get a baseline score.Optimize Hosting: Invest in a high-performance hosting platform that can handle your traffic and content demands.Leverage a CDN: A Content Delivery Network (CDN) stores copies of your site in multiple geographic locations, serving content from the closest server to the user, which drastically improves loading times for a global audience.Compress Images: Use a tool like compressor.io to significantly reduce image file sizes without sacrificing visual quality. This is one of the most effective ways to boost speed.From the technical dimension of speed, the analysis moves to the equally important geographical aspect of location.[00:57:45] SEO Fix #4: Location - Dominating Your Local MarketSince the vast majority of online searches have local intent (e.g., "tacos near me"), it is strategically vital for businesses to clearly signal their service area to capture nearby customers. Location-based SEO is not just for brick-and-mortar stores; it's essential for any business serving a specific geographic region.Actionable strategies for location optimization include:Integrate Map Links: Embed Google Maps and Apple Maps links directly on your website to provide clear location signals and improve user experience.Connect to Google Business Profile: A complete, updated, and active Google Business Profile is the cornerstone of local SEO. Ensure it is linked directly to your main website.Focus on a Target Radius: Optimize your content and keywords for a specific 5-20 mile radius to serve the most relevant local audience and avoid competing on a national level unnecessarily.Celese Williams strongly reinforces this point, advising that local service-based businesses must "master their own backyard" before even considering expansion. This on-page focus on location provides a natural bridge to the final, technical step of integrating the site with search engines.[01:02:10] SEO Fix #5: Integrations & Setup - Connecting to the Digital EcosystemThe final critical fix involves technical integration. This is not just a one-time setup step but the official act of submitting your website to search engines, ensuring your content gets seen, crawled, and indexed in a timely manner.The essential integration process includes:Connect to Google Search Console: This is the primary and non-negotiable step for submitting your site to Google, monitoring performance, and identifying technical issues.Submit Your Sitemap: A sitemap (sitemap.xml) is a file that lists all the important pages on your website. Submitting it through Search Console is like handing Google a complete directory, ensuring it knows what to crawl.Integrate with Microsoft Bing: By importing your Google Search Console profile directly into Bing Webmaster Tools, you can easily gain visibility on the world's second-largest search engine.[01:06:15] The "Fast Pass" Technique: Manual IndexingRyan Dennis and Celese Williams highlight a powerful tactic for new content. By manually requesting indexing for a new page in Google Search Console, you can effectively get a "fast pass" that prompts Google to crawl it within hours or a day, rather than waiting weeks for an organic crawl. Favour Obasi-ike adds a key detail: Google allows a daily quota of 10 manual indexing requests per website. This tactical discussion sets up the final Q&A, shifting from established SEO practices to the emerging influence of AI.[01:08:30] Community Q&A: The Role of AI in Content CreationThe episode concludes with a forward-looking discussion on a pressing question for 2026: is using AI for content creation a viable SEO strategy or a potential pitfall? The consensus is that AI is a tool, not a replacement for human expertise and authenticity.The speakers offer nuanced perspectives:Favour Obasi-ike's "Personalized AI" Stance: AI-generated content is only effective when deeply infused with human elements: brand tone, personal stories, case studies, and unique media. AI should be used for leverage, but the final product must align with Google's quality principles.Celese Williams' "Cautious Tester" Approach: She advises that businesses with strong SEO have more to lose and should be wary of AI, while those starting from scratch could test it. She raises a critical question about how AI aligns with Google's ranking systems. In response, Favour Obasi-ike highlights that Google updated its E-A-T framework to E-E-A-T, adding a new "E" for Experience. This update reinforces the need for human-led content, as AI cannot generate genuine, first-hand experience—a critical ranking factor in 2026.The ultimate takeaway is that AI is a powerful assistant, but it must be used to enhance—not replace—the unique experience, expertise, and emotion that only a human can provide.[01:19:00] Final Thoughts & How to ConnectFavour Obasi-ike wraps up the episode by reiterating the five critical SEO fixes that can transform a small business's digital presence. The primary call to action for listeners is to click the link in the show description to either book a direct consultation or access his comprehensive 12-hour training course, which is available with a 26% discount throughout January. He also recommends reading his recent article, "Is it worth hiring an SEO expert in 2026," also available via the link.Mentions & ResourcesPeople:Favour Obasi-ike (Host)Celese Williams (Guest Speaker)Dr. Fashion (Guest Speaker)Ryan Dennis (Guest Speaker)Tools & Platforms:Google Search Console: Google's free tool for monitoring website performance in search.Microsoft Bing Webmaster Tools: The equivalent of Search Console for the Bing search engine.GTmetrix.com: A website for testing and analyzing site speed and performance.Compressor.io: An online tool for reducing the file size of images.Repurpose.io: A tool for automating the distribution of content across multiple social platforms.SerpApi.com: A real-time SERP API to see what search results look like from any location.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Ask Me Your SEO Questions!Backlinks are one of the most confusing parts of SEO, and one of the easiest ways to get it wrong.In this episode of the Beginner's SEO Podcast, I break down what backlinks really are, why they still matter, and how small businesses can build them without spam, Fiverr disasters, or sketchy shortcuts.You'll learn:What makes a good backlink vs a harmful oneWhy cheap links don't work (and can hurt your site)Simple, realistic ways to earn backlinks through partnerships, podcasts, PR, and community connectionsHow backlinks fit into your SEO journey, and when you don't need to worry about them yetThis episode is perfect if you've heard backlinks are “important”… but no one has explained them in a way that actually makes sense! Grow your business with SEO by using the exact strategy I use with multimillion dollar companies: The Complete Beginner's SEO Course Is Here Enroll Here!Head to www.theplansuccess.com where you can get started on your SEO journey for free with some great free resources like the beginner's small business starter guide!And if you're not already, follow me over on Instagram for easy SEO tips!Website: theplansuccess.comInstagram - @theplansuccess
SEO Secrets for 2026: A Deep Dive into Schema Markup, Structure, and Indexing with Favour Obasi-ike with Favour Obasi-Ike | Sign up for exclusive SEO insights.Happy New Year! This episode provides a focused, actionable roadmap for business and website owners aiming to dominate search rankings in 2026. It moves beyond basic SEO to reveal three foundational, yet often overlooked, strategies: two internal and one external.Favour synthesizes the strategy into a winning formula: Schema + Structure + Speed. A website that excels in these three areas becomes a "triple threat"—it's understood by algorithms, technically sound, and delivers a superior user experience, making it the preferred result in search.Call to Action: For professional SEO help, you can book a call at playinc.online, listen to the podcast at wedontplaypodcast.com, or contact the me via email (info@playinc.online). More resource links available below.Core Framework for 2026 SEO Success:Internal Secret #1: Master Schema MarkupWhat it is: Explicit code (microdata) that tells search engines and AI exactly what your content means (e.g., Article, FAQ, Product).Why it matters: It "future-proofs" your content by turning pages into structured assets that AI-driven search tools can understand and feature correctly. It's the essential language for communicating with modern algorithms.Internal Secret #2: Prioritize Logical Site StructureWhat it is: A clear, hierarchical blueprint for your website using heading tags (H1, H2, H3, etc.) in the correct, sequential order.Why it matters: It serves both crawlers and users. It guides algorithms through your content while creating an intuitive, trustworthy experience for visitors. A confused structure repels both.External Secret: Leverage Automatic IndexingWhat it is: A technical method using an API to submit thousands of pages per day to Google, bypassing the strict 10-URL daily limit of manual submission in Search Console.Why it matters: For content-rich sites, it ensures your work is efficiently seen and indexed by Google, preventing valuable content from being overlooked.Episode Timestamps[03:30] Internal Secret #1: Master Schema MarkupWhat it is: Explicit code that tells search engines and AI what your content means.Why it matters: It future-proofs content, turning pages into structured assets that modern algorithms and AI search tools can correctly understand and feature.[13:00] Internal Secret #2: Prioritize Logical Site StructureWhat it is: A clear hierarchy using heading tags (H1, H2, H3) in correct order.Why it matters: It guides search engine crawlers and creates an intuitive, trustworthy experience for human users. Poor structure confuses both.[22:00] External Secret: Leverage Automatic IndexingWhat it is: Using an API to submit thousands of pages/day to Google, bypassing manual limits.Why it matters: Ensures large volumes of content are efficiently seen and indexed. A case study showed 27% of a 17M-page portfolio indexed in two weeks.[29:30] Key Conclusion: The "Triple Threat" FormulaThe winning formula is Schema + Structure + Speed. This combination ensures a site is understood by algorithms, technically sound, and delivers a superior user experience.[31:00] Call to Action: For help, book a call at playinc.online, listen to the podcast, or contact the host via email/LinkedIn.Next Steps for Booking A Discovery Call | Digital Marketing + SEO Services:>> Need SEO Services? Book a Complimentary SEO Discovery Call with Favour Obasi-Ike here>> Visit our Work and PLAY Entertainment website to learn about digital marketing services.>> Join our exclusive SEO Marketing community>> 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.
Welcome to Season 12 of the We Don't PLAY!™️ Podcast show! Enjoy the latest instrumental for the show as we dive in shortly!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
SEO Expert vs. SEO Agency: Making the Right Choice for Your Business (Decision Makers Edition) with Favour Obasi-ike with Favour Obasi-Ike | Sign up for exclusive SEO insights.Episode SummaryBusiness decision-makers constantly face the challenge of choosing between a solo SEO expert and a full-service SEO agency to drive their online growth. In this episode, host Favour Obasi-ike is joined by guests Marc McIntosh, (G.A.) Pimpleton, and Jolanta Kissoon Young to demystify this critical choice.The discussion unpacks the distinct roles of each provider, revealing that an expert acts like a specialist "doctor" for targeted advice, while an agency serves as a holistic "coach" for comprehensive execution. The conversation also ventures into the dark side of the industry, exposing common pitfalls and scams with firsthand accounts of fraudulent practices.Finally, the group provides a concrete, actionable framework for vetting a trustworthy partner, emphasizing the non-negotiable need for proven results and the power of earned trust to ensure your SEO investment translates into real business growth.Read New SEO Article: Is It Worth Hiring an SEO Expert in 2026? [Table Comparison]Next Steps for Booking A Discovery Call | Digital Marketing + SEO Services:>> Need SEO Services? Book a Complimentary SEO Discovery Call with Favour Obasi-Ike here>> Visit our Work and PLAY Entertainment website to learn about digital marketing services.>> Join our exclusive SEO Marketing community>> Read SEO Articles>> Subscribe to the We Don't PLAY PodcastKey Takeaways for Business LeadersFirst, define your need before you hire. The most critical first step is to align your business stage with the right provider. An SEO expert is ideal for startups or businesses needing strategic advice, specialized audits, or tactical guidance ("seeing where the needle is"). A full-service agency is better suited for mid-to-large companies that require an aggressive, multi-disciplinary growth strategy and hands-on implementation ("moving the needle").Second, "receipts" are non-negotiable. Do not hire a provider based on promises alone. Demand tangible proof of their competence and impact. Ask for detailed case studies, analytics, and data—what G.A. calls "receipts"—that show where past clients in your industry started and where they finished. This data should clearly demonstrate an increase in revenue, reach, and other key business metrics.Third, trust is earned through value. The most reliable and effective SEO partners are often those who don't rely on aggressive advertising. As Marc argues, trust is built over time. Seek out experts and agencies who freely educate their audience through podcasts, blogs, or online communities. This demonstrates genuine expertise, builds a foundation of trust, and proves they are more focused on delivering value than just making a sale.Detailed Episode Breakdown & Timestamps1. Introduction: The Core DilemmaStarting at 00:00, host Favour Obasi-ike opens the discussion by framing the critical decision business owners face: whether to engage a freelance SEO expert or a larger SEO agency. He emphasizes the strategic importance of this choice, noting that it can define a company's digital foundation and shape its future growth trajectory.At 01:15, Favour Obasi-ike provides an initial breakdown of the fundamental differences, describing an expert as a specialist focused on a specific problem, while an agency covers a comprehensive range of needs. He also introduces the idea that, under specific circumstances, the two can work together effectively.At 03:30, two primary scenarios for collaboration are detailed: an expert can augment an agency's team with specialized skills for a particular project, or an expert can be brought in to provide a "third eye" perspective for an established in-house team, offering an outside view to improve internal processes.With the core dilemma established, the discussion moves to the crucial task of matching your specific business needs to the right provider model.2. Differentiating Roles: The Doctor vs. The CoachBeginning at 05:00, the conversation highlights that to make a smart investment, you must first diagnose your own needs. This section provides a clear framework—the "Doctor vs. the Coach"—to help you distinguish between the need for tactical advice versus comprehensive execution and align your specific requirements with the right type of service provider.At 06:45, the conversation compares the two roles using a clear analogy: the expert is like a doctor who diagnoses and prescribes, while the agency is like a coach who manages the team and executes the game plan. The SEO Expert, or "Doctor," acts as a consultant or specialist who provides tactics and strategies, helping you "see where the needle is." They typically cost between $500 to $3,000+ per month on average. The SEO Agency, or "Coach," provides a full team for execution and acts as the "backbone of your brand online," actively "moving the needle" for you with a robust, multidisciplinary approach.At 09:10, Favour Obasi-ike explains the concept of an SEO agency acting as the technical "backbone" for a brand online. An agency is responsible for a wide array of needs, from generating traffic and performing technical fixes to assisting with branding, backlinks, and local SEO.At 11:25, clear advice is given on when to hire each: an expert is ideal for those just starting out who need to learn the ropes and get strategic direction. In contrast, an agency is necessary for mid-to-large businesses or well-funded startups that require an aggressive, multifaceted growth strategy.While understanding the ideal roles is essential, the real risk lies in the industry's dark side. The speakers now pivot to the critical red flags that can save a business from costly mistakes.3. Industry Pitfalls: Scams, Red Flags, and Cautionary TalesAt 15:30, the conversation shifts to address the "bad rep" of the SEO industry, highlighting why business owners must be exceptionally vigilant. This segment underscores the importance of recognizing red flags to avoid wasting money, losing time, and protecting critical company assets like websites and data.At 17:00, G.A. shares his negative experiences with agencies, explaining his preference for direct, one-on-one relationships. He recounts a client's horror story where a previous agency held their website and data hostage, making it nearly impossible to transition to a new provider and regain control of their own intellectual property.At 20:15, Marc McIntosh offers a powerful anecdote about a new client who had been paying a significant sum for "SEO services" but did not even have Google Analytics or Google Search Console connected to their site—a fundamental flaw. He warns against providers selling overpriced, templated services and using fake bot traffic to manipulate reports and create the illusion of progress.At 24:50, G.A. describes a common scam in his industry where companies buy recycled, low-quality leads from "SEO experts" who use impressive-sounding buzzwords like "quantum computing" to sell ineffective, boilerplate services that fail to deliver genuine clients.Recognizing the scams is half the battle; the other half is proactively identifying a trustworthy partner. The conversation now provides a practical vetting framework to do just that.4. Vetting a Partner: How to Find a Trustworthy ProviderStarting at 28:00, and armed with an understanding of the risks, this section delivers a practical toolkit for due diligence. Follow these systematic steps to move beyond a provider's sales pitch and verify their true capabilities, establishing a successful and transparent partnership from the start.At 29:30, the speakers collectively outline actionable steps for vetting any potential SEO provider.First, ask probing questions. Favour Obasi-ike suggests asking specific operational questions to gauge professionalism and process, such as: "What is your tech stack?", "How do you handle sensitive data and passwords?", and "How do you work as a team?".Second, demand "receipts" (proof of work). Synthesizing advice from the panel, this point stresses the need to see hard evidence. Demand what GA calls "receipts"—case studies, analytics, and performance data showing where clients started and finished. Additionally, as H advises, ensure these case studies explain the strategy behind the results, demonstrating their understanding of your industry.Third, check their own fundamentals. Marc provides a simple but effective tip: audit the provider's own website for basic SEO health. If they have fundamental errors like multiple H1 tags (Mark's example) or an outdated copyright date (Jolanta's example), it's a major red flag.Fourth, verify their authority. Look for tangible proof that they are a genuine expert in their field. A credible provider often has a presence on platforms like LinkedIn, hosts a podcast, writes a blog, or runs a community where they actively share knowledge and engage with their industry.Fifth, prioritize referrals and earned trust. Marc makes a compelling argument that the best partners are found through trusted referrals, not advertisements. He advises following potential experts over time. Those who consistently teach and give value freely are building genuine trust, making them a much safer and more reliable choice.A thorough vetting process is the best defense against industry scams and serves as the foundation for a fruitful, long-term relationship.5. Final Thoughts & Resources MentionedAt 45:00, the final segment wraps up the discussion by covering specific tools and platforms that can aid in SEO efforts. This reinforces the core idea that successful SEO is not a one-time fix but an ongoing, dynamic process of learning, implementation, and adaptation.At 46:15, the discussion touches on leveraging specific platforms for greater reach. In response to Jolanta's question, Favour Obasi-ike explains that Pinterest is a powerful visual search engine, not just a social media platform. Because the lifespan of a "pin" is 3.5 months to 5 months (compared to 19-72 hours for an Instagram post), content published there continues to drive traffic and build authority for a brand long after it's posted.At 52:30, the tools and platforms mentioned throughout the episode include: ClickUp, Zoom, Google Search Console, Google Analytics, ChatGPT, LinkedIn, Clubhouse, and Pinterest.At 55:00, Favour Obasi-ike closes the episode with a final call to action, encouraging listeners to connect with him directly via the link in his bio to turn the insights from the conversation into concrete action for their businesses.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
In this podcast episode, host Favour Obasi-Ike sits down with international conflict management expert Dr. Nashay Lowe to reveal how AI can serve as the ultimate mirror, reflecting our hidden biases and transforming how we communicate.Episode SummaryThis conversation delves into the strategic importance of understanding Artificial Intelligence not merely as a technological advancement, but as a transformative tool for enhancing professional communication, streamlining problem-solving, and fostering profound self-reflection. Dr. Nashay Lowe guides us through the necessary mindset shift required to harness AI's power, moving beyond skepticism to see its potential as an indispensable partner in complex human endeavors.The discussion charts a journey from initial resistance to a nuanced appreciation of AI's role in the modern workplace. Favour Obasi-Ike and Dr. Nashay Lowe dissect the common fear that AI will replace human jobs, reframing the technology as a "power tool" that augments human capability rather than rendering it obsolete.Dr. Nashay Lowe states that the real professional risk isn't being replaced by AI, but by a colleague who masters it. The conversation culminates in a powerful central metaphor: AI as an objective mirror. As Dr. Nashay Lowe states, "Conflict reveals who we are, it doesn't create our divisions it reflects them." In the same way, AI offers a unique ability to reflect our communication patterns and strategic gaps without the inherent lens of a human observer.Ultimately, the episode reveals that AI's effectiveness is entirely dependent on human guidance. Through skillful prompting, critical questioning, and a commitment to ethical use, professionals can leverage AI to see their challenges, and themselves, with unprecedented clarity. This episode provides a compelling roadmap for anyone looking to integrate AI thoughtfully into their work.These are the essential insights you need to navigate this new landscape.Key TakeawaysThis section distills the most critical and actionable insights from the conversation with Dr. Nashay Lowe. These takeaways serve as foundational principles for any professional seeking to adapt to and thrive in an increasingly AI-integrated world, transforming a complex technology into a practical asset for growth and efficiency.AI is an Evolutionary Tool, Not an EnemyResisting AI is akin to resisting the adoption of computers or smartphones—a futile effort against an inevitable technological evolution. The true professional threat is not being replaced by AI itself, but by someone who masters AI as a tool to work more efficiently and effectively. Adaptation is no longer optional; it's a core professional competency.AI Serves as an Objective MirrorThe most powerful application of AI in subjective fields like conflict management is its ability to act as a mirror to our own communication patterns, biases, and choices. By analyzing language and scenarios without a human's inherent emotional or experiential lens, it can reveal subtle tensions, repetitive biases, and strategic blind spots that we might otherwise miss.Human Input Dictates AI OutputThe value of AI is not in the technology alone, but in the user's ability to guide it. Dr. Nashay Lowe emphasizes the necessity of iterative prompting, asking critical questions, and providing specific context to achieve nuanced results. A generic prompt yields a generic answer; a thoughtful, challenging prompt unlocks a deeper level of analysis and creativity.AI Can Augment, But Not Replace, EmpathyWhile AI lacks genuine consciousness or empathy, it serves as an invaluable diagnostic tool. Dr. Nashay Lowe powerfully argues that AI can remind us where empathy is missing in our strategies and communications. It can highlight a failure to consider another perspective or identify language that lacks warmth, prompting the human user to inject the necessary emotional intelligence.The User is the Ultimate Guardian of PrivacyAs AI systems become more deeply integrated with our personal and professional data streams, the user's responsibility grows exponentially. The conversation highlights the valid paranoia around connecting AI to sensitive information. The key takeaway is that the user must proactively manage data connections and maintain confidentiality, for instance, by using anonymized scenarios rather than identifiable information.These core principles provide a framework for leveraging AI not just as a machine, but as a partner in professional development.Detailed Episode Timestamps & NotesThis structured guide provides a detailed breakdown of the episode's key moments and discussions. Use these timestamps to navigate directly to the topics and insights that are most relevant to your professional journey.[00:00:00] Introduction: The Power of Human ConnectionHost Favour Obasi-Ike and Dr. Nashay Lowe reflect on their meeting in Las Vegas, emphasizing how valuable real-world, in-person connections are for creating professional opportunities, including this very podcast episode.[00:02:15] Meet Dr. Nashay Lowe: Proactive Strategy Over Reactive Problem-SolvingDr. Nashay Lowe outlines her background in international conflict management and her current mission. She applies global frameworks to local conflicts in academic and nonprofit sectors, aiming to shift leaders from "putting out fires" to implementing proactive strategies. Her goal is to create long-term, healthy habits rather than relying on ineffective "one-off" workshops.[00:04:30] Navigating AI Skepticism: A Necessary Mindset ShiftDr. Nashay Lowe addresses the common resistance to AI, framing it as a crucial mindset shift. She draws parallels to the initial skepticism surrounding cell phones and computers, arguing that AI is an evolving tool that will inevitably become integrated into every aspect of our lives. Adaptation is key.[00:06:45] The AI & Human Partnership: More Power Tool, Less ReplacementThe conversation reframes AI not as a replacement for humans, but as a tool that enhances efficiency. Dr. Nashay Lowe shares a powerful analogy from her partner, comparing the evolution of work to building a house with a hammer and nail versus a power tool, the goal is the same, but the right tool makes the process faster and more efficient.[00:10:10] AI in Conflict Management: Reflecting Our DivisionsThis segment explores the episode's central thesis. Dr. Nashay Lowe explains, "Conflict reveals who we are, it doesn't create our divisions it reflects them. And so artificial intelligence to me works much of the same way." She argues that AI can serve as an objective mirror in the subjective process of conflict resolution, identifying patterns and biases that a human mediator, operating through their own lens, might overlook.[00:14:00] The Emerging Frontier: AI as a Therapeutic ToolDr. Nashay Lowe notes the surprising trend of people using generative AI like ChatGPT for therapeutic purposes. She shares an anecdote about users having "meltdowns" on TikTok after a software update made the AI seem less "nice," underscoring the complex, human-like relationships people are beginning to form with the technology.[00:17:30] Using AI Responsibly: The Art of the PromptThis section focuses on the principle that AI's output is only as good as its input. Dr. Lowe explains the importance of prompting AI to challenge your assumptions ("Don't confirm what I'm already telling you") rather than simply validating them. Responsible use involves an iterative process of refining the AI's output with specific human feedback.[00:20:45] Privacy vs. Progress: The Security DilemmaDr. Nashay Lowe addresses the valid security and privacy concerns surrounding AI's integration with personal data like emails, calendars, and financial accounts. She contrasts this risk with a practical strategy for maintaining confidentiality in her work: using anonymized scenarios ("Person ABC") to analyze conflicts without exposing personally identifiable information.[00:25:00] Crafting Dialogue: A Masterclass in SpecificityDr. Nashay Lowe provides a masterclass on using AI to develop communication scripts. Her method involves giving the AI a specific persona ("You are a 25-year vet in conflict management") and, crucially, directing it to pull information from credible, specific sources like peer-reviewed journals. She continually refines the output with detailed feedback until it meets the desired tone and substance.[00:30:10] Dr. Lowe's Core Message: A Reminder Where Empathy is MissingDr. Nashay Lowe delivers her powerful final takeaway. She concludes that AI can never replace essential human qualities like presence, listening, or humility. However, its greatest strength is its ability to "hold a mirror to our communication patterns and ask without judgment, 'Is this how you're meant to show up?'"Learn more about this episode's insightful guest in the section below.About Our GuestThis episode features the expert insights of Dr. Nashay Lowe, a strategist dedicated to transforming how leaders approach conflict and organizational health.Dr. Nashay Lowe is a specialist in international conflict management who applies global frameworks to solve local challenges. She works primarily with academic and nonprofit leaders to help them shift from reactive problem-solving to building proactive strategies for long-term success. With a focus on creating healthier, sustainable habits within organizations, Dr. Nashay Lowe is currently exploring the cutting edge of her field by integrating Artificial Intelligence as a tool to foster more objective, effective, and positive change.Resources & Ways to ConnectConnect with Dr. Nashay Lowe:Website: https://www.loweinsights.comPodcast: The Resolution RoomInstagram: @loweinsightsLinkedIn: Nashay LoweNext Steps for Booking A SEO Discovery Call | Digital Marketing + Done-for-you SEO Services:>> Need SEO Services? Book a Complimentary SEO Discovery Call with Favour Obasi-Ike here>> 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!>> 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 Clubhouse marketing session explores the multifaceted world of Restaurant SEO and its application to local businesses. Favour details how establishing a strong digital presence through third-party platforms like Uber Eats and DoorDash creates a "franchise SEO" ecosystem that builds brand authority. The discussion emphasizes off-page strategies, such as connecting Google Business profiles and social media links, to drive traffic and foster community trust. Participants also examine the role of multimedia content, suggesting that podcasts and videos can humanize a brand by showcasing chef interviews or cooking processes. Beyond restaurants, the conversation expands to cover niche industries like private investigation, highlighting how AI-driven search and reputation management are reshaping modern visibility. Ultimately, the sources advocate for a strategic blend of long-term organic growth and immediate paid advertising to maintain a competitive edge.Restaurant SEO: Uber Eats, Grubhub and DoorDash Marketing Tactical Strategies with Favour Obasi-ike with Favour Obasi-Ike | Sign up for exclusive SEO insights.-------------------------------------------------------------------------Next Steps for Booking A Discovery Call | Digital Marketing + SEO Services:>> Need SEO Services? Book a Complimentary SEO Discovery Call with Favour Obasi-Ike here>> 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!>> 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 Podcast-------------------------------------------------------------------------Episode Timestamps[00:00:00] Introduction: Defining Restaurant SEOThe discussion begins by establishing that "Restaurant SEO" is not a unique discipline but rather a specialized application of local SEO. This foundational understanding is critical for any business reliant on a physical location for customer visits, from restaurants and local stores to farm markets. At [00:01:15], the host defines Restaurant SEO as local SEO with a "restaurant tag" on it, emphasizing its importance for driving traffic, generating tangible results, and gathering customer feedback—all vital for a local establishment's growth.By [00:03:30], the conversation introduces two key strategies for extending a restaurant's online reach. The first is Franchise SEO, which involves leveraging third-party platforms with active communities, such as DoorDash, GrubHub, OpenTable, and NextDoor. Listing a restaurant on these services creates powerful backlinks to its primary website, enhancing its authority. The second is Off-Page SEO, which refers to activities on other digital platforms, primarily social media sites like Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. Connecting these profiles back to the main website helps build a robust online presence and authority. These definitions set the stage for the episode's central strategic debate on driving business growth.[00:10:00] The Core Debate: SEO for Trust vs. Ads for ImmediacyThis section frames the episode's central conflict, presenting two competing yet complementary philosophies for driving restaurant growth. The speakers weigh the immediate, traffic-driving power of paid advertising against the long-term, trust-building foundation of a solid SEO strategy.At [00:11:45], John makes a strong case for prioritizing paid advertising, asserting that restaurants "need customers now." He argues that paid strategies, such as a proven Facebook advertising model, are the most effective tools for immediate results and that SEO should be considered a secondary, long-term project. At [00:15:20], another speaker supports John's point on the need for immediacy, using a practical example to illustrate the customer mindset: "if I want chicken wings, I'm not worried about SEO."By [00:18:00], Favour presents the counter-argument, clarifying that SEO's primary role is to build trust and credibility before a sale can occur. He uses the analogy of a "red flag" for anyone promising immediate sales directly from SEO. The group reaches a consensus that a balanced approach is best: ads are essential for short-term traffic, while SEO serves as the indispensable long-term foundation for sustainable growth and brand authority. The conversation then transitions from this high-level strategy debate to a specific, actionable content strategy proposed by the host.[00:25:00] A Creative Content Strategy: The Restaurant PodcastThis segment introduces a novel and powerful idea for restaurants to differentiate themselves and build a deep, trust-based relationship with their community. The speakers frame podcasting as a way for a restaurant to move beyond simple listings and reviews to become a true content creator and community hub.At [00:26:10], the host proposes that a restaurant should start its own podcast, utilizing both audio and video formats to engage potential customers on a deeper level. By [00:27:30], the group brainstorms a range of compelling content ideas, including video recipes, cooking tutorials, and culinary tips; interviews with the restaurant's chefs to discuss their creative process; discussions on the quality and sourcing of ingredients; answering frequently asked questions from customers; exploring the history and cultural significance of the cuisine; collaborating with beverage brands featured on the menu; taste tests and sampling sessions; customer testimonials; and behind-the-scenes looks at special events or cookouts.By [00:30:00], the primary strategic goal of this podcasting strategy is articulated: to build profound trust by allowing customers to discover aspects of the restaurant they would never think to search for, thereby creating a stronger and more resilient brand connection. This discussion on creating unique content naturally leads to the technical necessity of structuring that content correctly on the restaurant's website.[00:33:00] Technical SEO Deep Dive: The Menu is Your WebsiteThis section uncovers a critical and often-overlooked technical SEO mistake that can severely handicap a restaurant's online visibility. The speakers reveal how relying on seemingly convenient third-party systems for menu hosting can prevent a restaurant from capitalizing on valuable search traffic.At [00:34:05], a speaker highlights the significant failure of using platforms like Toast that consolidate an entire menu onto a single landing page. He explains that this approach misses the opportunity to have 25 separate, indexable pages for a 25-item menu. By [00:36:15], the impact of this mistake is clarified: individual menu item pages should be treated like e-commerce products. Each page is capable of generating its own organic traffic and ranking for highly specific searches, such as "best chicken wings in [city]."The solution, discussed at [00:38:40], is to structure the restaurant's website so that each menu item has its own dedicated page. Each page should be optimized with rich descriptions, proper titles, and an easy-to-use ordering system, thereby maximizing the restaurant's "footprints and stamps across the internet." The conversation then shifts from these on-site technical details to the broader, future-facing topic of visibility within emerging AI search engines.[00:42:00] The Future: AI Visibility and Advanced AutomationSetting the stage for a forward-looking discussion, the experts explore how the concept of "being found" is expanding beyond traditional search engines. The focus shifts to include AI-powered Large Language Models (LLMs) and the new opportunities they present for visibility and automation.At [00:43:10], the group discusses the growing importance of "AI Visibility." This involves ensuring a restaurant's information appears when users ask direct questions to AI chatbots like ChatGPT (e.g., "what's the best sushi restaurant near me?"). They also touch on how platforms like Perplexity can be leveraged for rapid ranking within these new search paradigms.By [00:45:00], the concept of using AI agents and automation for SEO tasks is introduced. A speaker provides a powerful example of using a tool like N8N to create an agent that can log into a website daily and automatically optimize product titles. He elevates this concept by explaining the goal is to move beyond simple email reports and "upgrade to the voice agents... and my AI gives me a phone call about the listings that's been optimized," emphasizing a future where an AI proactively works and reports, even waking the owner from sleep with critical updates.At [00:47:25], the speakers identify some of the foundational data sources that LLMs use to answer queries, such as SERP API and DuckDuckGo. This highlights the necessity for businesses to be listed and visible in these core digital infrastructures to appear in AI-generated results. This look into the future of search concludes the main discussion.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Happy Birthday to Favour Obasi-ike. He shares a personal message of gratitude while celebrating a birthday. He reflects on the show's prolific output, noting that over 140 out of 600+ episodes were produced in the current year alone. As the show prepares to enter its twelfth season in 2026, listeners are encouraged to explore the extensive archives via a searchable website to find specific marketing and business topics via wedontplaypodcast.comThis brief update serves as a direct connection with the audience to offer appreciation for their consistent loyalty. Finally, the creator concludes the message by looking forward to future content and heading off to a commemorative dinner.-------------------------------------------------------------------------Next Steps for Booking A Discovery Call | Digital Marketing + SEO Services:>> Need SEO Services? Book a Complimentary SEO Discovery Call with Favour Obasi-Ike here>> 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!>> 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 Podcast-------------------------------------------------------------------------See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Merry Christmas Eve everyone!
Merry Christmas to you and your beautiful family! This episode features Favour Obasi-ike offering a holiday greeting to his precious listeners. This captures a seasonal well-wish intended to convey warmth and spiritual favor during the winter festivities. By using a traditional festive salutation, Favour aims to establish a positive connection with you, the listener. The message is succinct and celebratory, focusing entirely on a Christian blessing associated with the Christmas season. This simple piece of media serves as a sincere gesture of goodwill and holiday cheer.Thank you for listening to the We Don't PLAY™️ Podcast Show! God bless you!-------------------------------------------------------------------------Next Steps for Booking A Discovery Call | Digital Marketing + SEO Services:>> Need SEO Services? Book a Complimentary SEO Discovery Call with Favour Obasi-Ike here>> 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!>> 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 Podcast-------------------------------------------------------------------------See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
In this episode, we sit down with a top entrepreneur and filmmaker Stewart Cohen, an expert and business owner of nearly 20 years, to unpack how to build genuine credibility and lasting success in an age of overwhelming digital noise ("cyber noise").Stewart shares timeless principles from his entrepreneurial journey, shaped by a family legacy of business ownership, and contrasts the foundational strategies of the past with the unique challenges of today.Stewart argues that in a world where “social media lies, websites lie,” the most valuable currency is in-person credibility. He provides a masterclass in turning client relationships into your most powerful marketing engine and explains why protecting your audience's attention is the ultimate business discipline.
How to Write Catchy Titles, Descriptions, and High-Impact Headlines for your websites, email marketing, social media marketing, Pinterest SEO, and more with Favour Obasi-Ike | Sign up for exclusive SEO insights.Episode Summary:In this comprehensive episode + guide on crafting effective digital headlines, titles, and descriptions to boost online engagement. The speaker emphasizes that metadata acts as the essential context for content, serving as the primary factor that drives click-through rates across platforms like Google, YouTube, and LinkedIn. Strategic advice includes maintaining a title length of approximately 55 to 65 characters to avoid text truncation while maximizing visual impact. I also recommend using odd numbers, brackets, and power words to leverage psychological triggers that improve visibility and user trust. Finally, the discussion frames intentional copywriting as a vital tool for business owners to transform passive web traffic into active conversions and long-term brand authority.In high-level digital strategy, titles, descriptions, and headlines are not merely decorative—they serve as the essential "key frames" of metadata. This content architecture bridges the gap between raw information and audience discovery by providing the necessary context (Author, Host, Duration, and Intent) that search algorithms require to categorize an asset. By transforming raw content into searchable, high-value assets, a strategist ensures that the brand is prioritized within the user's search journey.Favour emphasizes that structured delivery and architectural integrity correlate directly to business results. If a title fails to establish immediate relevance, the conversion path is broken before it begins. Success in the current landscape requires a commitment to iterative improvement—ensuring the "next version" of a title or metadata set is systematically optimized based on data rather than intuition. This log details the tactical framework used by Favour, currently ranked #2 (We Don't PLAY!) on the FeedSpot Top 100 Marketing Podcasts (trailing only Gary Vaynerchuk), to drive visibility across SEO, PPC, and email ecosystems.Deep Dive: The Quantitative Science of Click-Through Rates (CTR)To maximize ROI, content creators must move beyond "gut feeling" and toward research-backed optimization. Using industry benchmarks from Orbit Media and Moz, we can calibrate headlines to meet the psychological triggers that drive user action.-------------------------------------------------------------------------Next Steps for Digital Marketing + SEO Services:>> Need SEO Services? Book a Complimentary SEO Discovery Call with Favour Obasi-Ike>> 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!>> 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 Podcast-------------------------------------------------------------------------Timestamps[00:00] Catchy Titles vs. Structure; Metadata as the "Context to the Content."[05:00] The 600-Pixel Rule; Pixel Weight (W vs. l); The 55-Character Sweet Spot.[10:00] Moz Study Analysis; Numbers in Headlines; Why Odd Numbers Win; Brackets and Transparency.[15:00] Power Words and Psychological Triggering; Tool Highlight: CapitalizeMyTitle.[20:00] Platform Evolution: Instagram as TV; LinkedIn SEO and the One-Time URL Edit Rule.[25:00] Case Study: Ranking #2 on FeedSpot; The Math of the 12-Hour Masterclass; Call to Action.Effective content strategy requires tracking the flow of information to ensure "next-version" improvements. The following log segments the Masterclass into thematic chapters, providing the "So What?" factor for each strategic shift.Chapters:Chapter 1: The Metadata Framework [00:00 - 10:00] Context vs. Content. This segment establishes that metadata is the "context" (attributes like host and duration) that allows users to value an asset before engaging. Without these key frames, even high-quality content remains invisible to search engines and the "Exact Searcher Intent."Chapter 2: The Utility of Catchy Copy [10:00 - 18:00] Visibility Across the Funnel. Effective copy acts as the primary catalyst for Click-Through Rates (CTR) across SEO, LinkedIn, and Email. The speaker frames catchy titles as functional tools that pre-condition the audience for engagement and conversion.Chapter 3: The Physics of the Pixel [18:00 - 25:00] Typography Weight. Moving beyond character counts, this chapter introduces the 600-pixel display limit. Strategists must account for the "weight" of individual characters (e.g., a capital "W" vs. a lowercase "l") to prevent truncation and maintain a professional aesthetic on the SERP (Search Engine Results Page).Chapter 4: The Psychology of Numbers [25:00 - 35:00] Time-Value Perception. This section evaluates how numbers (specifically odd numbers) impact user psychology. The "So What?" factor is the "minute-per-item" rule: users subconsciously equate the number of items in a title to the minutes they must invest (e.g., 10 ways = 10 minutes), directly influencing the decision to click.Chapter 5: Platform Evolution [35:00 - 45:00] Ecosystem Logic. The speaker analyzes Instagram's transition to "TV-style" content and LinkedIn's rigid SEO URL logic. The key takeaway is the importance of "Exact Title Match" to meet user intent while navigating platform-specific constraints like DM automation and hashtag limits.Chapter 6: The Podcasting Marathon [45:00 - End] The Milestone Logic. Highlighting the "eighth-episode hurdle" where 500,000 creators quit annually, the speaker discusses his 600-episode milestone and the necessity of IAB Tech Lab compliance. Long-term distribution success is a result of persistence and technical "due diligence."High-Value Quotes"Metadata... that's just another way of saying how do we get context out of this content. Those are attributes... that's the context to the content." - Favour Obasi-ike"A capital W has more weight than a small w. A capital L has more weight than a small l... that weight they carry is a pixel size digitally.""If somebody clicks and finds your content valuable, resourceful, accurate, and responsive, then anything that you're going to do from SEO to PPC ads... you're able to use consistently."Resources:Companies Passing Tech Lab Compliance Programs | Podcast Compliance DirectoriesHeadline Analyzer Tool: Write Better Headlines | Write Better Headlines HereSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Ask Me Your SEO Questions!This week on the Beginner's SEO Podcast, we're diving into holiday SEO, specifically Christmas and Black Friday! A short, sharp episode with the practical, no-fluff strategies to help your site show up on Google when people are searching for gifts, sales, and Black Friday deals. Whether you run an online shop or a service-based business, these tips will help you make the most of the busiest time of year! Grow your business with SEO by using the exact strategy I use with multimillion dollar companies: The Complete Beginner's SEO Course Is Here Enroll Here!Head to www.theplansuccess.com where you can get started on your SEO journey for free with some great free resources like the beginner's small business starter guide!And if you're not already, follow me over on Instagram for easy SEO tips!Website: theplansuccess.comInstagram - @theplansuccess
How Eldar Cohen Scaled from Hands-On Labor to a Seven-Figure SEO Business—And Created One of the Most Powerful Local SEO Tools Available In this inspiring episode of Local SEO Tactics, Bob Brennan sits down with Eldar Cohen, founder of Local Dominator and Local Wiz, to discuss his incredible journey from being a garage door technician to building a multi-seven-figure digital marketing empire. Eldar shares the real-world grit, failures, and breakthroughs that shaped his rise in the SEO industry and how his AI-enhanced rank tracking tool, Local Dominator, is helping agencies and local businesses win in the ever-evolving search landscape. What You'll Learn How Eldar transitioned from garage door repair to dominating local search markets Why branding is the first SEO step and how leverage fuels business scalability Eldar's take on the future of search, the role of LLMs, and why SEO is not dead, it's just evolving Ready to take your local SEO to the next level? Scan the QR code in the episode or visit LocalDominator.io to learn more about how you track rankings across Google Maps or go to localseotactics.com/free-gmb-audit/ for a free instant Google Business Profile Audit today! https://www.localseotactics.com/eldar-cohen-local-dominator-seo-journey/
In Part 2 of this conversation, Ana de la Cruz, SEO Lead at Chartis, returns to The Simple and Smart SEO Show with Crystal Waddell for a deep dive into the human side of AI.Ana unpacks how experimenting with chatbots taught her the inner workings of LLMs, what semantic triples really mean for SEO, and how the Japanese philosophy of Ikigai helps her balance learning, creativity, and life.Crystal connects it all back to entrepreneurship — discussing the “never-ending to-do list,” living an optimized life, and how technology can make us more human when we use it with intention.You'll learn:What SEOs can learn from experimenting with AI and codingWhy understanding semantic triples and language structure mattersHow to use Ikigai to prioritize time and energyHow to optimize life, not just websiteHelpful Links:
Ask Me Your SEO Questions!Everyone says you need a blog to grow your small business website online with SEO, but do you really? In this Beginner's SEO Podcast episode, I break down whether every small business website actually needs a blog, what the benefits are, and when it might just be a waste of your time. Plus, I'll share some practical alternatives you can use to build authority and attract customers without ever writing a single blog post. Grow your business with SEO by using the exact strategy I use with multimillion dollar companies: The Complete Beginner's SEO Course Is Here Enroll Here!Head to www.theplansuccess.com where you can get started on your SEO journey for free with some great free resources like the beginner's small business starter guide!And if you're not already, follow me over on Instagram for easy SEO tips!Website: theplansuccess.comInstagram - @theplansuccess
Note: In this episode, Greg is interviewed on the SirLinksalot's SEO Podcast. We're sharing the interview here so that you don't miss out on the useful M&A insights that Greg shares. Greg returns to the SirLinksalot's SEO Podcast to share his insights from selling over 2,400 businesses and playing a part in turning 90 people into millionaires. Few people have a front-row seat to the changing landscape of online business like he does. In this episode, Greg dives into what really makes an online business sellable today, drawing from years of experience watching deals happen behind the scenes. They also explore the booming trend of faceless YouTube channels, why they're exploding in popularity, and how creators are building entire empires without ever showing their faces. Of course, no conversation about the future of digital business would be complete without AI. Greg shares his perspective on how artificial intelligence is transforming the way entrepreneurs operate, scale, and exit their businesses in a rapidly evolving digital economy. Whether you're building, buying, or just curious about the future of online business, this is an episode you don't want to miss. Mentions: Empire Flippers Podcasts Empire Flippers Marketplace Create an Empire Flippers account Subscribe to our newsletter SirLinksalot's SEO Podcast Sit back, grab a coffee, and enjoy this episode!
Note: In this episode, Greg is interviewed on the SirLinksalot's SEO Podcast. We're sharing the interview here so that you don't miss out on the useful M&A insights that Greg shares. Greg returns to the SirLinksalot's SEO Podcast to share his insights from selling over 2,400 businesses and playing a part in turning 90 people into millionaires. Few people have a front-row seat to the changing landscape of online business like he does. In this episode, Greg dives into what really makes an online business sellable today, drawing from years of experience watching deals happen behind the scenes. They also explore the booming trend of faceless YouTube channels, why they're exploding in popularity, and how creators are building entire empires without ever showing their faces. Of course, no conversation about the future of digital business would be complete without AI. Greg shares his perspective on how artificial intelligence is transforming the way entrepreneurs operate, scale, and exit their businesses in a rapidly evolving digital economy. Whether you're building, buying, or just curious about the future of online business, this is an episode you don't want to miss. Mentions: Empire Flippers Podcasts Empire Flippers Marketplace Create an Empire Flippers account Subscribe to our newsletter SirLinksalot's SEO Podcast Sit back, grab a coffee, and enjoy this episode!
Tools and Tactics to Outrank Local Competitors and Optimize Your Google Business Profile Discover actionable strategies for improving your local SEO through competitor analysis and Google Business Profile optimization. This episode explores how to use tools like Lead Snap and GMB Everywhere to uncover what top-ranking businesses are doing right, align your website and GBP categories for better visibility, and build a content strategy that fills ranking gaps in your market. Plus, learn how to boost local authority with backlinks, industry engagement, and AI-friendly content tactics that drive real-world results. What You'll Learn How to identify what's working for top competitors in your local market using Lead Snap and GMB Everywhere Why aligning your GBP categories with website content is crucial for rankings Ways to create blog and service content that targets local ranking gaps and improves calls and traffic Want to beat your local competitors on Google Maps? Start by analyzing what they're doing and then do it better. Get expert help building your GBP and content strategy by reaching out for a free local SEO consultation. https://www.localseotactics.com/tools-for-competitor-analysis-gbp-content-strategy
AI is changing how people find businesses, but are you doing the simple things that make you easier to find? In this episode, Bob shares one of the most overlooked yet powerful strategies for boosting your local SEO and AEO: joining your local Chamber of Commerce. Learn how this single move can improve your credibility, drive quality backlinks, and help AI assistants like Siri, Alexa, and ChatGPT recommend your business more confidently. Discover why local authority matters more than ever and how getting listed in the right places can supercharge your online visibility. Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe, leave a review, and send us your questions and we might feature them in an upcoming episode! Ask a question Free SEO Audit SEO Resources Hire Us
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.
Elle est la plus sportive et sans doute la plus tech des avocates entrepreneuses. Elle est allée auxJeux Olympiques, a monté son cab en droit public et droit de la santé, créé une asso, a complètement automatisé son exercice, construit un modèle qui n'entre dans aucune case … La fille a tellement d'énergie que t'as juste envie de te poser dans ton canap et qu'elle te raconte comment elle gère !C'est donc ce que j'ai fait. Dans nos fauteuils confortables on va vous raconter, dans ce nouvel épisode d'Avocats Génération Entrepreneurs, la folle histoire de Sarah Hanffou. Pour les curieux Sarah m'a donné ses sources d'inspirations Podcast: MVP → LE Podcast SEO. | Podcast on SpotifyIntelligence Artificielle - Data Driven 101 - Le podcast IA & Data 100% en français | Podcast on SpotifyPosition 0 - Le podcast SEO | Podcast on SpotifyThe Knowledge Project with Shane Parrish | Podcast on Spotify Livres: Le Grand Livre du Marketing digital 3ème édition - broché - Claire Gallic, Rémy Marrone - Achat Livre ou ebook | fnacLe nouvel horizon de la transformation digitale - Focus sur les données, cap vers l'IA - Livre et ebook Stratégie, consulting de Jean Barrère - DunodObjectif Satisfaction Client - Attitudes et techniques pour enchanter ses clients - Avec la méthode 4 Colors - Livre et ebook Commercial - Relation Client de Brigitte Boussuat - DunodCustomer Experience redesign ! L'expérience client (re)mise à plat ! - broché - Gabriel Dabi-Schwebel, Valérie Vax - Achat Livre | fnacAcquisition Strategy Design Comprendre votre client et le faire progresser dans son parcours d'achat jusqu'à la vente - broché - Gabriel Dabi-Schwebel, Collectif - Achat Livre | fnac Youtube :(1039) Ludo Salenne - YouTube(1039) Renaud Dékode - YouTube(1039) StackGuide - YouTube(1039) Amandine Bart - Le SEO Sans Migraine
Google, Facebook, or YouTube: Which Ad Platform Is Right for Your Business? In this episode, Bob Brennan tackles one of the most common questions local business owners face: Should I be running paid ads? He breaks down the performance and costs of Google Ads, Facebook Ads, and YouTube Ads, comparing their strengths, weaknesses, and how much revenue they can actually generate. You'll also hear how paid ads can complement your long-term SEO strategy and when it makes the most sense to invest in them. If you're trying to get leads fast without wasting your budget, this episode is a must-listen. What You'll Learn The differences between Google, Facebook, and YouTube Ads Why paid ads can be a smart short-term boost during SEO campaigns How to budget and measure ROI for local ad campaigns Liked this episode? Don't forget to subscribe and share it with another local business owner who's stuck deciding between ads and SEO. And if you're ready to get strategic with your digital marketing, reach out and we'll help you make it count. https://www.localseotactics.com/are-paid-ads-worth-it-for-local-businesses/
In this week's episode of Search with Candour, Jack Chambers-Ward and Mark Williams-Cook discuss the evolving landscape of search in the context of Large Language Models (LLMs), the challenges they bring, including A LOT of spam and how they are being manipulated in search.They talk about the potential future of AI search, and the implications for brands and consumers as well as the responsibilities of monitoring and mitigating misinformation, the need for in-depth product data, and the feasibility of AI taking over transactional tasks.Sponsored by fatjoe:Are you ready to get started? Sign up for your free fatjoe account: https://fatjoe.com/References:Use The Brand Control Quadrant To Reclaim Your Brand Narrative: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mMx3u6fgg5wWhy OpenAI & Perplexity want clickstream data: https://www.linkedin.com/posts/myriamjessier_ai-search-marketing-activity-7348972981231988738-jDHIHacked sites and expired domains are being cited by ChatGPT: https://digitaloft.co.uk/hacked-sites-and-expired-domains-are-being-used-as-chatgpt-sources/00:00 Introduction and banter01:28 Discussing LLM Spam and Manipulation02:16 Sponsor Message: Fatjoe03:59 The Uses of LLMs in Search06:03 Challenges and Future of AI Search16:38 Phishing and Security Concerns with LLMs19:54 Responsibility and Brand Protection24:47 The Future of AI and Search31:10 Damage Control in the Age of Generative AI31:41 LLMs are Leaky Buckets32:48 Firefighting Tools for AI Errors34:22 The Importance of Brand Reputation35:15 High-Value Leads and Conversion Rates36:46 Misleading AI Conversations37:27 SEO Strategies for E-commerce40:14 The Future of AI in E-commerce44:33 The Impact of AI on Consumer Behaviour47:23 Concluding Thoughts and Upcoming Events
Still using Yoast for SEO on your WordPress site? In this episode of Search Smarts, host Bob Brennan discusses Rank Math, the powerful plugin that's quickly becoming the go-to for WordPress optimization. From setup and schema to redirections and rich results, Bob breaks down everything you need to know to make the switch and boost your rankings. Whether you're launching a new site or refining an existing one, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help you optimize smarter. Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe, leave a review, and send us your questions and we might feature them in an upcoming episode! Ask a question Free SEO Audit SEO Resources Hire Us
How to Earn, Use, and Leverage Reviews to Climb the Rankings and Convert More Customers What's the one SEO tactic that boosts your Google Business Profile ranking and increases customer conversions? Google Reviews. In this episode of Local SEO Tactics, we dive into why reviews are a direct ranking factor, how to earn them ethically, and the insider strategies to get more of them, without risking penalties. If your local business isn't prioritizing reviews, you're falling behind. This is your complete guide to getting it right. What You'll Learn How Google uses reviews to rank your business in the map pack Review strategies that increase conversions by up to 44% Ethical ways to ask for reviews and what to avoid to stay compliant Want help crafting a review strategy that boosts both SEO and trust? Contact us and let's elevate your Google presence together. https://www.localseotactics.com/mastering-google-reviews-for-seo-success-and-local-trust/
Is your website ready for the shift from search engines to answer engines? In this episode of Search Smarts, Bob Brennan breaks down the difference between SEO (Search Engine Optimization) and AEO (Answer Engine Optimization) and why both matter more than ever in 2025. Learn how zero-click searches, featured snippets, and voice assistants are changing the game, and what you can do now to make sure your content stays visible, relevant, and trusted. Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe, leave a review, and send us your SEO or AEO questions and we might feature them in an upcoming episode! Ask a question Free SEO Audit SEO Resources Hire Us
Boost Your GBP, Drive Local Traffic, and Skyrocket Visibility with These SEO Tools Tired of guessing what actually works in local SEO? In this episode of the Local SEO Tactics podcast, Bob Brennan reveals 12 powerful SEO tools that local businesses can use right now to dominate Google in 2025. Whether you're trying to crack the local 3-pack, boost your Google Business Profile, or finally understand how users interact with your site, this episode is packed with real, actionable insights. Learn which free and paid tools deliver results, from heatmaps and keyword planners to GBP category optimizers and how to use them to attract more local traffic and stay ahead of your competition. What You'll Learn How to pick and prioritize the right GBP categories to boost your rankings in Google's local pack Which SEO tools give the biggest ROI for local search performance, even if you're on a budget How to use keyword research and content strategies to build momentum and outrank your competitors Want to see how your business stacks up in local search? Claim your FREE SEO audit now and get a personalized breakdown of what's working, what's not, and how to rank higher in your area. https://www.localseotactics.com/12-powerful-seo-tools-every-local-business-needs-to-dominate-google-in-2025/
Join PPC Pro Austin Becker and me in this episode of The Simple and Smart SEO Show.We're diving into strategic blogging, PPC attribution, and the underrated power of Pinterest — a must-listen for creative entrepreneurs, Shopify sellers, and busy business owners who want to grow without burnout.Here's what you'll learn:How to use Google's "People Also Ask" to create blog content that drives trafficWhen and how Pinterest ads actually work for e-commerceWhy attribution is murky — and how to trust your gut when running ads 0:00 – Intro 0:02 – How to use Google to find blog ideas that convert 1:10 – Linking blog posts back to products and monetizing content 2:00 – Pinterest: A goldmine for visual and evergreen traffic 3:20 – Are Pinterest ads worth it? Austin shares results 4:45 – Organic vs paid Pinterest: What drives more ROI 6:00 – Planning and buyer intent on Pinterest 7:00 – How to measure PPC success (or not) 8:00 – Realistic evaluation windows for ad performance 9:00 – Common PPC/SEO mistakes to avoid 10:15 – Who's a good fit for Becker Marketing's services 11:30 – Final thoughts
In this episode of the I Do Wedding Marketing Podcast, I'm sitting down with Taylor Svetlichny of Aligned SEO. If SEO feels like a mysterious code you've never cracked, you're not alone—I'm right there with you! But Taylor breaks it all down in a way that's approachable, smart, and dare I say... fun?We dive deep into:The biggest SEO myths that are holding creative entrepreneurs and wedding pros backWhy simply blogging every week isn't enough (and how it could actually be hurting your site!)How to do keyword research that actually works—and why one small tweak in a word can make all the differenceThe truth about “near me” searches and how local SEO really worksTips for optimizing your main pages first before getting buried in blog postsHow to turn your podcast show notes and transcripts into powerful SEO contentAnd why having a Google Business Profile is non-negotiable in 2025Taylor also shares her journey from photographer to SEO pro, and why she swears by SEO for building sustainable, high-quality leads—without constantly churning out content.
Ask Me Your SEO Questions!This episode of Beginner's SEO Podcast will cover the basics of reporting for SEO for both small business owners and new freelancers! Grow your business with SEO by using the exact strategy I use with multimillion dollar companies: The Complete Beginner's SEO Course Is Here Enroll Here!Head to www.theplansuccess.com where you can get started on your SEO journey for free with some great free resources like the beginner's small business starter guide!And if you're not already, follow me over on Instagram for easy SEO tips!Website: theplansuccess.comInstagram - @theplansuccess
Simple Ways Small Business Owners Can Start Using AI In this episode, host Bob Brennan shares two powerful and easy ways to implement AI into your small business: AI voice answering and AI chat integration. Using real-world examples from his own business, HelperTech, Bob demonstrates how AI can automate customer service, boost bookings, and deliver real ROI even after hours. What You'll Learn How AI voice systems can book appointments, offer pricing, and reduce no-shows. Why a clean, structured knowledge base is critical for AI accuracy. Practical ways small businesses can refine AI tools to maximize customer experience and profitability. Listen now to learn simple, actionable steps you can take to start using AI in your business today and gain an edge over your competition! https://www.localseotactics.com/how-you-can-implement-ai-into-your-business-today/ FREE SEO AUDIT: https://www.localseotactics.com/free-seo-audit/ Ask us a question: https://www.localseotactics.com/questions/
Unlock the secrets of podcasting success with Hall of Fame podcaster Dave Jackson! In this episode of Dope Interviews, host Warren Shaw dives deep with Dave about his journey from the early days of podcasting to becoming the Head of Podcasting at Podpage. Discover actionable tips on audience engagement, the evolution of podcasting tech, why every podcaster needs a website, and how to stand out in a celebrity-saturated landscape.Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned creator, Dave shares invaluable advice on finding your “why,” measuring podcast success, and leveraging tools to grow your show. Plus, get insights into the future of podcasting, the impact of AI, and why audio still reigns supreme. Don't miss this masterclass in podcasting!00:34: Introduction of Dave Jackson, Podcasting Hall of Famer. 01:27: Dave Jackson's entry into podcasting in 2005. 03:17: The global reach and fulfilling nature of podcasting. 04:03: Early days of the School of Podcasting and pricing lessons.07:26: The importance of "skin in the game" for user commitment. 08:09: The story behind Dave's Hall of Fame induction. 10:24: Measuring podcast success and the January boost. 13:14: Dave's career path through podcasting organizations to Pod Page. 15:33: The agility and customer focus at Pod Page. 18:20: What is Pod Page and why podcasters need a website. 21:13: Underrated Pod Page Feature: Audience Surveys. 24:02: Pod Page Network Features. 25:28: Excitement and Eyebrow-Raises: Podcast Consumption Growth & YouTube's Role. 26:24: Do You HAVE to Do Video Podcasting?. 28:18: Thoughts on AI in Podcasting. 29:07: The Influx of Celebrity Podcasting. 32:51: The Strangest Successful Podcast: Chameleon Breeding. 34:55: Final advice for aspiring podcasters & Pod Page Free Preview. 36:11: Wrap-up and OutroBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/dope-interviews--5006633/support.
Mastering Answer Engine Optimization (AEO) with Dixon Jones In this episode, host Bob Brennan welcomes SEO legend Dixon Jones, CEO and co-founder of InLinks, to discuss his groundbreaking new tool, Waikay (What AI Knows About You). They dive into the future of SEO, the rise of Answer Engine Optimization (AEO), and how businesses can start managing their brand presence within AI-driven search platforms like ChatGPT, Gemini, and Claude. What You'll Learn Why traditional SEO is shifting toward AEO (Answer Engine Optimization) and what that means for your business. How Waikay helps you monitor and manage how AI models perceive your brand online. Practical steps you can take today to fact-check, correct, and improve your AI reputation. Tune in to learn how to future-proof your SEO strategy and stay ahead in the AI-driven search landscape! For a free trail of Waikay go to https://waikay.io/free/ https://www.localseotactics.com/help-with-your-aeo-boosting-brand-visibility-in-the-age-of-ai-with-waikay/ RESOURCES Free SEO Audit Ask us a Question Dixon Jones Website InLinks Waikay Dixon on LinkedIn
Join Brian and Alexandr in this week's podcast as they explore the pros and cons of niche edits vs private blog networks, dive into user experience experiments, and share how using a disavow file helped recover a penalized iGaming site. Perfect for affiliates and casino SEO pros looking to stay ahead of Google updates!
Building a Small Business Website for Longterm SEO Success In this episode of Local SEO Tactics, Taylor from Intrycks walks you through the essential steps to building a website that not only looks great but is optimized for SEO success. From choosing the right domain name to selecting the best hosting provider and website platform, this episode will help you avoid common mistakes and set your business up for long-term growth. Whether you're DIYing your site or considering hiring a professional, these tips will save you time, money, and headaches down the road. What You'll Learn How to choose an SEO-friendly domain name that helps your site rank in local search. The best hosting providers for speed, security, and performance (and why it matters for SEO). Why WordPress is the top choice for small business SEO and how to future-proof your site for growth. Listen now and learn how to set your website up the right way. Have questions or want to work with us? Contact us at intrycks.com! https://www.localseotactics.com/getting-started-with-small-business-seo-part-3-228/ FREE SEO AUDIT: https://www.localseotactics.com/free-seo-audit/ Ask us a question: https://www.localseotactics.com/questions/
Essential SEO Steps to Make Your Small Business Visible Online Welcome to The Local SEO Tactics series, "Getting Started with Small Business SEO." In this first episode, we're covering the foundational strategies every small business owner needs to know to build an effective online presence. From understanding how search engines work to setting up your website and Google Business Profile for success, this episode lays the groundwork for a strong SEO strategy. Whether you're new to SEO or need a refresher, we've got you covered. What You'll Learn The basics of getting started with SEO and why it's crucial for small businesses How to optimize your Google Business Profile for local search and common mistakes Key website elements to set up for SEO longterm success Don't miss out on this series! Hit play and start building your SEO foundation today. Be sure to subscribe so you never miss an episode in this step-by-step guide to growing your small business online. https://www.localseotactics.com/getting-started-with-small-business-seo-part-1-226/ FREE SEO AUDIT: https://www.localseotactics.com/free-seo-audit/ Ask us a question: https://www.localseotactics.com/questions/
How Business Owners Can Utilize AI to Save Time and Drive Success In this episode of the Local SEO Tactics Podcast, Bob Brennan sits down with renowned speaker and AI strategist Jonathan Mast. From reshaping how small businesses tackle repetitive tasks to fostering genuine customer connections, Jonathan reveals how AI can be a game-changer. Learn his innovative “Perfect Prompting Framework,” discover unconventional ways to save time and amplify team creativity, and hear how one roofer transformed his business with just a few simple tools. What You'll Learn How to turn AI into your team's most reliable “employee.” The 4-step Perfect Prompting Framework for AI-powered efficiency. Surprising ways businesses like yours are using AI to thrive without breaking the bank. Ready to see what AI can do for your business? Tune in now and learn strategies you can use today. Follow, subscribe, and leave a review to keep up with our latest episodes! Ask SEO questions and get a free SEO audit on our website localseotacics.com FREE SEO AUDIT: https://www.localseotactics.com/free-seo-audit/ Ask us a question: https://www.localseotactics.com/questions/ https://www.localseotactics.com/ai-strategies-for-small-businesses-with-jonathan-mast/ Connect with Johnathan Mast: https://www.instagram.com/jonathanmast/?hl=en https://www.facebook.com/jonathanjmast/ https://www.youtube.com/@jonathanmast_withai https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathanjmast/