
Search with Candour - SEO podcast
Every Monday, Jack Chambers-Ward has in-depth conversations with SEO experts from around the world.
Covering topics from attribution in GA4 to networking tips for introverts and everything in between.
Search With Candour the perfect way to kickstart your working week!
Latest episodes

12 snips
Feb 3, 2025 • 59min
Create content that converts | Steven Schneider
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.

10 snips
Jan 27, 2025 • 47min
SEO Insights and Debates: Consensus, Tech SEO Value & Traffic Trends | Mark Williams-Cook
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.

31 snips
Jan 20, 2025 • 1h 6min
Why SEO & PPC Teams Must Work Together | Anu Adegbola
Anu Adegbola, an international PPC consultant and editor at Search Engine Land, emphasizes the critical collaboration between SEO and PPC teams. They discuss strategies for sharing insights and aligning goals to navigate Google updates effectively. Anu highlights the role of data-driven testing and the need for fresh perspectives in campaigns. The conversation also covers the importance of brand consistency and bridging traditional with digital marketing. They advocate for open communication to optimize results and build trust among teams.

10 snips
Jan 12, 2025 • 1h 12min
Are backlinks still worth it in 2025? - Tamara Novitovic
Tamara Novitovic, Head of SEO at Bazoom Group and a specialist in AI's impact on SEO, joins the discussion on the future of backlinks. They delve into how link-building strategies must evolve by focusing on engagement and content relevancy. Tamara highlights the significance of balancing innovative content with data-driven approaches. The conversation also touches on AI's role in enhancing SEO practices and predicting shifting user metrics for link value, providing crucial insights for SEO enthusiasts.

18 snips
Jan 6, 2025 • 53min
How SEO Changed in 2024: The web almanac with Jamie Indigo
Jamie Indigo, a Technical SEO expert and author of the Rich Snippets newsletter, shares insights from the 2024 Web Almanac. The conversation dives into the significant changes in SEO, including the rising impact of AI and the pivotal role of robots.txt. Jamie discusses the evolution of Core Web Vitals and how structured data is becoming essential for user experience. He highlights the need for clearer communication around SEO directives and reflects on the future of SEO in an ever-changing digital landscape.

Dec 30, 2024 • 1h 28min
2024 SEO Highlights and 2025 SEO Predictions
In this special episode of Search With Candour, hosts Jack Chambers-Ward and Mark Williams-Cook sit down with guests Arnout Hellemans, Yagmur Simsek, and Begum Kaya.
Recorded in a brand new studio to celebrate the finale of Season 3, the panel discusses SEO industry highlights from 2024, and makes some SEO predictions for 2025.
Topics include the rise of AI, shifts in search engine market shares, and the ever-evolving landscape of SEO. The conversation extends to personal branding, the importance of community in SEO, and how the integration of AI could reshape the search experience in the coming years.
Follow our guests
Follow Arnout Hellemans on LinkedIn and Bluesky
Follow Yagmur Simsek on LinkedIn and Search 'n' Stuff
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Chapters
00:00 Welcome
00:17 Introducing Our Special Guests
02:38 Highlights of 2024 in SEO
11:53 The Impact of AI on SEO
27:06 Building Trust and Brand in SEO
43:09 The Long-Term Impact of SEO Tips
43:31 The Challenge of Measuring Long-Term SEO Success
44:08 The Human Element in SEO
44:51 The Evolution of SEO Communities
45:51 Conversational Search and AI
47:00 The Future of Search Engines
49:19 The Role of AI in Everyday Tasks
01:03:41 The Impact of AI on Jobs and Society
01:13:01 Predictions for the Future of Search
01:25:58 Closing Thoughts

11 snips
Dec 23, 2024 • 51min
Google Exploit Data Discussion with Mark Williams-Cook
Mark Williams-Cook, an SEO expert celebrated for his insights at Search Norwich, dives into a captivating discussion on a recent Google exploit discovery. He and Jack Chambers-Ward explore the implications of this exploit for SEO practices and data management. They also introduce innovative frameworks for understanding SEO through video game analogies, revealing how search engine behavior parallels gaming principles. Tune in for a peek at the future of SEO, including how metrics and query classifications shape online visibility.

Dec 16, 2024 • 46min
The Top 10 Episodes of Search With Candour in 2024
Jack Chambers Ward reviews the most engaging episodes of the year, celebrating a 32% increase in listeners. He dives into memorable insights on SEO from guests recorded in a lively garden. The discussion covers the evolving role of AI in SEO and emphasizes the power of small tweaks in content like YouTube titles to boost engagement. Notable mentions highlight the impact of critical thinking and successful branding strategies that enrich the digital content landscape.

Dec 9, 2024 • 1h 22min
Storytelling will improve your marketing with Will Slater
In this engaging discussion, Will Slater, a Creative Content Specialist at 43 Clicks North, shares insights on the power of storytelling in marketing. He emphasizes that even flawed ideas can lead to great concepts and highlights the importance of curiosity in creating emotional connections. Will explores how storytelling techniques from various mediums, such as music and comics, can enrich content. Listeners will gain valuable tips on structuring messages, engaging diverse audiences, and the art of concise copywriting to elevate their marketing strategies.

Dec 2, 2024 • 1h 10min
Unlocking AI Overviews with Tomek Rudzki
Tomek Rudzki, a Technical SEO researcher and co-founder of ZipTie.dev, dives into the burgeoning world of AI overviews and their impact on SEO. He discusses the differences between traditional search results and AI overviews, stressing the importance of source quality, especially in sensitive areas like health. Rudzki shares strategies for optimizing content for these AI-driven outputs and examines Google's approach to user-generated content. The conversation sheds light on the evolving landscape of search and the challenges it poses for content creators.
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