If you're still relying on Google traffic and ad revenue to grow your blog, here's the hard truth: that era is over.

In this episode of The Blogger Genius Podcast, I sat down with Katie Trant of Foodie Brand Lab to talk about the seismic shift happening in online business. AI is changing how people search, generic content is flooding the internet, and Google algorithm updates are gutting traffic overnight.

So what is working now?

Katie and I break it down: it's time to stop chasing SEO and start building a memorable brand that people search for by name.

Show Notes:

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Why SEO-Only Blogging No Longer Works

Let's face it—depending on SEO traffic and ads was once a goldmine. Bloggers who mastered keyword research could build passive income machines.

But now? With Google's updates and AI tools like ChatGPT answering simple questions instantly, those days are behind us.

Katie shared how even her most high-performing posts like "how to cook dried chickpeas" are losing relevance—not because they're bad, but because users now ask AI instead of clicking through to a blog.

What's the solution?

You Are the Unique Ingredient

The only thing that can't be copied by AI is you.

Whether you're sharing chocolate chip cookie recipes or parenting tips, your voice, values, personality, and brand are what make you stand out. Katie puts it perfectly: "The only truly unique thing about your recipe is you."

That means showing up as a real person—on video, in your writing, and across your digital products. And yes, that means being relatable and even a little imperfect.

👉 Want to turn your personality into profit? Start by offering a freebie that reflects your brand's values. With MiloTree's Free Plan, you can set up an AI-generated opt-in page, deliver your freebie automatically, and grow your list—all for free.

How to Build a Brand That Grows Your Business

Think of a brand not just as your logo or colors—but as a living ecosystem. Your brand is the answer to the question: "Why you?"

Katie recommends building your brand around a problem you solve. For example:

Healthy food bloggers might solve: "What meals are best for gut health?"
Parenting bloggers might solve: "How do I entertain my kids with purpose?"
Pet bloggers might solve: "What does my dog really need to thrive?"

Every blog post, video, product, or freebie you create should solve that core problem in a consistent, recognizable way.

Why Being Personal Matters (But Oversharing Doesn't)

There's a fine line between being personal and being personable. You don't have to share your entire life story—but giving your audience a glimpse into who you are builds trust.

Not everyone will "get" your vibe—and that's the point. Your goal is to attract the right audience, not everyone.

Katie gave this tip: If you're unsure whether to share something, ask yourself:

Does it build trust or authority?
Does it add value?
Does it align with my brand?

If yes—share it. If not—skip it.

Monetize by Solving Real Problems

The best brands don't just blog. They sell.

And here's the secret: the stronger your brand, the easier it is to sell your digital products—because your audience already trusts you.

All in one place. No tech skills required.

Take Action: Build Your Brand and Start Making Money

The internet is flooded with generic content. The only way to stand out and build a sustainable business is by being unmistakably you.

Here's how to get started:

✅ Identify the big problem you solve ✅ Offer a freebie around it using MiloTree ✅ Start showing up as yourself—in your content, your videos, and your offers ✅ Create digital products that reflect your brand ✅ Keep it simple, human, and helpful

🚀 Want help? Sign up for MiloTree and get started growing your list and making sales in under 5 minutes.

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