Search with Candour - SEO podcast

Mark Williams-Cook, an SEO expert, joins the conversation, sharing his excitement for BrightonSEO and previewing his talk. He and host Jack Chambers-Ward discuss standout sessions to attend and the intriguing concept of 'Google warming,' a playful nod to the volatility in Google's algorithms. They explore essential SEO strategies, including the significance of structured data markup and the evolution of search dynamics. The episode wraps with insights into adapting SEO approaches in a landscape transformed by AI and personalized search experiences.

Kaspar Szymanski, a former Google Search Quality Team member and co-founder of SearchBrothers.com, shares invaluable SEO insights for 2025. He emphasizes the importance of server logs in understanding Google’s behavior and the critical role of branding in SEO. Kaspar highlights the unique challenges small businesses face and warns against outdated practices like low-quality backlinks. The discussion also stresses a holistic approach to SEO, integrating user experience with technical strategies for lasting impact in a competitive digital landscape.

Erika Varangouli, the Head of Branding at Riverside, dives into the world of AI in content creation. She discusses the challenge of standing out in a crowded market and emphasizes the importance of brand consistency and a unique voice. The conversation touches on the ethical considerations surrounding AI and its impact on SEO strategies. Erika shares her love for heavy metal music and reflects on some of her favorite sequels, blending humor with industry insights in a lively chat.

In this engaging discussion, Sam Torres, Chief Digital Officer at Gray Dot Company, and Tory Gray, its CEO and founder, share their expertise on JavaScript and website migrations. They explore common pitfalls in SEO during migrations and emphasize the need for proper documentation and planning. The conversation delves into enhancing user experience with JavaScript, strategies for effective communication between SEO and development teams, and the implications of AI on the future of web development, making it a must-listen for digital marketers.

Mordy Oberstein, founder of Unify Brand Marketing and an SEO expert, dives into the future of branding and search. He highlights the importance of standing out in a crowded digital space and managing brand perception. The conversation touches on the balance of trust and skepticism in marketing, reflecting on the shifts caused by the pandemic. Humorously, they explore SEO challenges and brand identity in an AI-driven world, while also predicting how consumer behavior will evolve in the years to come.

Mark Williams-Cook, an SEO expert renowned for his knowledge on pagination and anti-spam tactics, joins to discuss pivotal SEO strategies. He delves into the challenges of e-commerce pagination, emphasizing the balance between user experience and effective indexing. The conversation also explores the unexpected backlinks from AI-generated content, revealing fresh opportunities for visibility. Mark shares insights on Google's under-the-radar anti-spam tactics and the importance of A/B testing in navigating the ever-evolving SEO landscape.

Dani Leitner, an SEO consultant and trainer focused on German-speaking markets, joins to discuss building topical authority. She reveals how Google assesses this authority and strategies to showcase expertise through guest posts and conference speaking. The conversation dives into the complexities of language in SEO and the risks of relying too heavily on AI for content creation. Dani emphasizes adapting strategies to audience knowledge and highlights the need for collaboration between SEO professionals and content creators for better results.

Itamar Blauer, Senior SEO Director at StudioHawk and host of SEO Unplugged, shares insights on the future of search in an AI-driven world. He discusses Google's challenges in maintaining trust amidst fierce competition from emerging platforms. Personalization in search is scrutinized, while the implications of advanced AI technologies on user behavior are explored. Itamar also suggests how SEO professionals can adapt to the rapidly evolving landscape, ensuring they stay relevant in a dynamic market.

Steven Schneider, Co-founder and CEO of Trio SEO, shares his expertise on creating content that converts in a digital landscape. He emphasizes the critical role of site structure, internal linking, and effective CTAs in driving user engagement. The discussion also delves into the power of AI tools for optimizing content strategies and maintaining authentic branding. Additionally, they explore how integrating SEO with other marketing channels can enhance user experience and conversion rates, making it a must-listen for marketers seeking actionable insights.

The hosts dive deep into the complexities of trust and consensus in SEO, particularly how it impacts user perceptions. They discuss the crucial role of technical SEO for small businesses, pointing out the pitfalls of a one-size-fits-all approach. The conversation shifts to traffic trends, warning about the risks of traffic depreciation when SEO efforts taper off. Moreover, the need for tailored strategies over rigid packages is emphasized, showcasing the importance of continuous SEO efforts for long-term success.