The Near Memo
By: Greg Sterling, Mike Blumenthal & David Mihm
Language: en-us
Categories: News, Business, Marketing, Entrepreneurship
Exploring the big stories for the week at the intersection of local business & marketing across the spectrum of search, social and commerce. With Greg Sterling, Mike Blumenthal & David Mihm.
Episodes
Why Local SEO Is Breaking for Law Firms (And What Actually Works Now)
Jan 08, 2026Send us a text
Local SEO, reviews, and Google LSAs are no longer working the way law firms expect. In this episode of Near Memo, Gyi Tsakalakis (AttorneySync) joins Mike Blumenthal and Greg Sterling to explain why rankings and traffic are misleading, how LSAs reshape legal demand, why review cheating is rampant, and how brand trust has become the real competitive moat.
If you’re relying on Google visibility alone to grow a law firm, this conversation is a wake-up call.
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Duration: 00:28:34Google’s AI Mode Is Rewriting Local Search — What Businesses Must Do for 2026 P#2
Dec 23, 2025Send us a text
Google’s AI Mode and ChatGPT search are reshaping local discovery. This deep dive interview with Michel van Luijtelaar of GMBapi explains what’s changing, how users behave inside AI results, and what local businesses must do now to stay visible and trusted.
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Duration: 00:33:50Google’s Review Algorithms Are Tightening — Here’s What the Data Shows
Dec 19, 2025Send us a text
In this episode of The Near Memo, Greg Sterling and Mike Blumenthal talk with Michel of GMB API about what new data reveals regarding review removals, fraud detection, incentivized reviews, and regional legal differences across Europe and the U.S.
The conversation explores why reviews are increasingly central to AI-driven search experiences, how enforcement tools can unintentionally harm small businesses, and what this all means for trust, visibility, and competition in local search.
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Duration: 00:28:07AI Agents Are Coming: Jes Scholz Reveals How to Prepare Your Business NOW
Dec 11, 2025Send us a text
In this episode, Jes Scholz joins Greg Sterling and Mike Blumenthal for a deep dive into the forces reshaping search: AI agents, the rise of conversational interfaces, the 60/40 brand-activation model, content freshness, multimodal distribution, and why your database — not your website — may determine your competitive future.
Jes explains what marketers must do now: update your content strategy, test your site with agents, fix your UX friction, and prepare your database for natural-language inputs. Essential listening for SEOs, CMOs, and local businesses navigating the next wave of digital change.
Su...
Duration: 00:30:12AI Mode, Gemini 3 & the Future of Search: Jes Scholz on What SEOs Must Do Now
Dec 04, 2025Send us a text
In this packed episode, Jes Scholz joins Greg Sterling and Mike Blumenthal to explore where AI search is really headed. From conversational interfaces replacing the search box to the competitive implications of Gemini 3, Jes explains why Google’s index is shrinking, why publishers must evolve, and why consensus around brand salience — not keywords — decides visibility.
We also cover local search dynamics, review-based consensus modeling, multi-touch attribution myths, and how to create content that earns true distribution in 2025.
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Duration: 00:33:11Google Maps Gets AI, Reviews Get Aliases, Ads Invade AI Mode — And Google Uses Its Monopoly to Win the AI War
Nov 21, 2025Send us a text
In this episode of the Near Memo, Mike Blumenthal and Greg Sterling unpack Google’s dramatic shift toward an AI-first search ecosystem — including the rollout of Know Before you Go in Maps, ads in the new AI Mode in Search & Maps, and the introduction oof Gemini 3 what that means for personalization and marketers.
We explore:
• Google Maps’ new AI-powered interfaces — including Know Before You Go and the prominent “Ask” module that pulls data from reviews, websites, and third-party sources. We discuss how Google is reshaping t...
Duration: 00:37:36What #1-Ranking Personal Injury Lawyers Are Doing Right — Greg Gifford’s GBP Local Ranking Study
Nov 12, 2025Send us a text
Greg Gifford joins the Near Memo to break down his large-scale Local SEO study of 3,000 personal injury law firm's Google Business Profiles. He reveals what #1 ranked PI las firms are doing that #10 ranked practioners are not. From review response rates and schema misfires to UTM tracking errors, the trio unpacks what’s real in local SEO and what’s hype. The episode closes with a lively debate about the AI-driven future of the SERP.
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Duration: 01:01:30AI Search, Reviews, and the Future of Local SEO — Darren Shaw Breaks Down the 2026 Ranking Factors
Nov 07, 2025Send us a text
Local SEO just got a major shake-up. In this episode, Darren Shaw of Whitespark joins Mike Blumenthal, David Mihm, and Greg Sterling to reveal key takeaways from the 2026 Local Search Ranking Factors study — including how AI search, behavioral signals, and reviews are changing the local game. Hear what really moves the needle, what’s fading, and where Google, Gemini, and ChatGPT fit into your future strategy.
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Duration: 00:44:10TikTok’s Local Play: How Gen Z Is Rewriting Local Search
Oct 30, 2025Send us a text
In this episode, Greg Sterling, Mike Blumenthal, and Celeste Gonzalez (Rickety Roo) dive into TikTok’s “Local Explorer” — a new review and discovery program inside the app. They explore how Gen Z’s shift toward TikTok and Instagram is reshaping local search, what the Adobe and SOCi studies reveal, and why authenticity may be TikTok’s edge over Google Reviews.
You’ll learn:
• How TikTok gamifies local reviews
• Why 62 % of Gen Z prefer TikTok for finding local businesses
• How to track TikTok referrals in GA4 & GSC
• Why revi...
Duration: 00:46:45Google’s Local Antitrust Battle with Yelp, Gemini’s “Grounded” Local AI, and ChatGPT’s New Local Results
Oct 23, 2025Send us a text
In Episode 229, Mike and Greg unpack Yelp’s revived antitrust lawsuit against Google and what it reveals about search dominance. They dive into Google’s “grounded” Gemini AI—supposedly tied to Maps data—and Mike’s test results showing how unreliable it still is. Finally, they explore ChatGPT’s new local results format, which borrows from Google Maps, and debate whether AI interfaces can ever be trusted to tell the truth.
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Duration: 00:33:29AI & Local Business: How AI Is Rewriting Location Management; Interview with Ana Martinez, P2
Oct 16, 2025Send us a text
AI is reshaping how businesses manage their locations, from adoption challenges to AI Overviews in Google Search, to the renewed importance of citations and directories. Mike Blumenthal, Greg Sterling, and Ana Martinez from Uberall discuss AI’s role in visibility, customer journeys, and local SEO strategy.
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Duration: 00:34:51Inside Uberall’s Local AI Shift: From Culture Shift to Client Tools; Part 1
Oct 09, 2025Send us a text
Uberall’s CTO Ana Martinez joins Greg Sterling & Mike Blumenthal to reveal how the company is going “AI native with their Local Platform location management.” From internal culture shifts to new client-facing tools like UBI and Location Performance Score, learn how AI is reshaping products, teams, and customer expectations.
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Duration: 00:31:58Google GBP Suspension Increases?, The Future of Reviews, and Liz Reid’s AI Vision for Search
Oct 01, 2025Send us a text
In this episode of the Near Memo, Greg Sterling and Mike Blumenthal dig into Google Business Profile suspension increases over time, the broken state of reviews, and insights from Google’s Liz Reid on AI Overviews, AI Mode, and monetization. What do these changes mean for small businesses, SEOs, and consumers? Tune in for an unfiltered take.
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Duration: 00:35:53Google Review Extortion, Maps AR, What ChatGPT is Missing & YouTube’s Strategic Power
Sep 25, 2025Send us a text
In this episode of the Near Memo, Mike and Greg break down:
👉 Subscribe for more insights on Google, AI, and local marketing.
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Duration: 00:33:02Interview with Barry Schwartz: Review Ransom, The State of the Open Web, and the Implications of AI on Search Interfaces
Sep 18, 2025Send us a text
In this episode, Greg Sterling, Mike Blumenthal, and Barry Schwartz discuss various pressing topics in the digital marketing landscape, including the rise of local review ransom schemes, the ongoing debate about the state of the open web, and the implications of AI on search interfaces. They explore how Google's recent changes and the introduction of AI features are reshaping user experiences and the future of search. The conversation also touches on the challenges businesses face with review moderation and the impact of spam on search quality.
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Duration: 00:49:32Google’s Action Links Crackdown, The “Declining” Open Web, and Siri + Gemini
Sep 10, 2025Send us a text
We discuss Google’s new guidelines for Business Profile action links, the company’s conflicting statements about the health of the open web in an antitrust case, and Apple’s rumored partnership with Google’s Gemini to power Siri. Together, these stories highlight Google’s tightening grip on local businesses, the shifting economics of publishing, and how Apple’s AI ambitions could reshape search traffic and advertising revenue.
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Duration: 00:33:39AI Overviews in Local: When & Where, DOJ Google Remedies (?), and an SMB GBP Case Study
Sep 05, 2025Send us a text
We dig into when/where Google’s AI Overviews (AIOs) appear in local, how people actually split tasks across Google vs. ChatGPT, what the DOJ’s remedies mean for defaults, and a fresh case where a brand-new local biz triggered an AIO—plus practical takeaways.
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Duration: 00:33:05AI Overviews & Why consumers like them, Reviews vs. Reality & Why Google Search Volumes Aren’t Falling
Aug 28, 2025Send us a text
Mike Blumenthal and Greg Sterling discuss three hot-button topics:
Consumer vs. industry perspectives on Google’s AI OverviewsHow review expectations differ from actual behavior in the legal verticalWhy Datos data shows AI growth isn’t displacing search usageSubscribe to our newsletters and other content at https://www.nearmedia.co/subscribe/
Duration: 00:26:42Google’s LSA Shake-Up, Google LSA Dark Patterns & BrightLocal SMB Marketing Insights
Aug 21, 2025Send us a text
Google is consolidating Local Services Ads trust signals into a single verification badge — but is it really about trust or revenue? Greg and Mike discuss Google’s evolving ad strategy, the ongoing degradation of organic results, their "dark patterns" that elevate LSA usage and new BrightLocal data showing less than half of small businesses have claimed their Google Business Profiles. Plus: why email remains an overlooked channel, and whether AI tools like ChatGPT can realistically challenge Google in local.
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Duration: 00:28:26Part 2- Barnacle SEO in the AI Era: Will Scott on Tools, Automation & Content Strategy
Aug 14, 2025Send us a text
In part two of this interview, SEO veteran Will Scott of Search Influence joins Mike Blumenthal and Greg Sterling to unpack how AI is reshaping search, why semantic SEO matters, and how to use no-code automation tools to scale content. Learn how to barnacle onto high-authority sites, repurpose content across platforms, and adapt to an AI-first search world.
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Duration: 00:31:02Part 1: Barnacle SEO in the AI Era: Will Scott on Leveraging AI for Search & ChatGPT Visibility
Aug 07, 2025Send us a text
In Part 1 of this interview, SEO veteran Will Scott joins Near Memo to unpack the rise of Barnacle SEO in a world reshaped by AI. We explore how content visibility, listicles, and trusted sources like Reddit and Yelp are influencing AI-generated responses. Plus, we debate the viability of “GEO” as a term, Google’s evolving narrative, and the role of automation tools in SEO.
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Duration: 00:32:52The Future of Maps: User Focused, Contextual & Integrated AI with Goetz Weber
Jul 31, 2025Send us a text
Greg Sterling and Mike Blumenthal talk with mapping expert Goetz Weber about why today’s maps fail to deliver personalized, contextual experiences — and what needs to change. From intent modeling to the limits of monetization, from ChatGPT to Snap Maps, Goetz lays out a compelling vision for mapping 2.0: visual, social, and powered by AI.
For relevant links and a transcript visit our site.
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Duration: 00:47:38Pew & Ahrefs Reveal Click Declines & AIO Disruption, Local SEO vs. AI: What Happens to the Pack?,
Jul 24, 2025Send us a text
This week, Greg and Mike dissect new data from Pew and Ahrefs showing how AI Overviews impact user click behavior, local pack visibility, and publisher traffic. They explore the branding mess of “AIO” vs. “GEO,” ChatGPT’s growing usefulness, and YouTube’s quiet dominance. Plus: a burrito search showdown and dishwasher repair gone AI.
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Duration: 00:32:45Google Fixes GBP Alerts Sort Of, Expands "Ask for Me" Local Quotes, ChatGPT Local Search Disurptor?
Jul 18, 2025Send us a text
In this episode of the Near Memo, Greg Sterling and Mike Blumenthal dive into Google’s overhaul of its Business Profile dashboard notifications and why it's problematic, the rollout of Google’s AI-powered “Ask for Me” local quote feature, and ChatGPT’s growing impact on local search. Plus: Will businesses benefit from the Ask for Me feature?
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Duration: 00:36:55Google’s AI Overviews, ChatGPT’s Search Shift, and Google's Secret Weapon
Jul 10, 2025Send us a text
In this episode of the Near Memo, Greg Sterling and Mike Blumenthal discuss fresh insights into how consumers engage with local AI Overviews, explore the theory that ChatGPT may be using Google's search index, and dig into the explosive growth and influence of Google's Local Guides program. The discussion also touches on zero-click search, ad transparency, and the implications for local businesses.
Sponsored by GatherUp.
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Duration: 00:31:44GBP Suspensions, AIO Overviews & New Best Practices for AI-Era Local SEO and Reviews
Jul 03, 2025Send us a text
Greg and Mike unpack the latest in local search: an uptick in suspensions, why AI overviews are shifting lower on SERPs, and what local businesses must do to thrive in an AI-dominated search world. Also, a pig roas
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Duration: 00:39:38AI, Reviews & the Future of Local SEO: What Darren Shaw Says You Need to Know
Jun 26, 2025Send us a text
Darren Shaw of Whitespark returns to the Near Memo to talk with Mike and Greg about what’s actually working—and what’s not—in local SEO as AI begins reshaping consumer behavior. From the rise of first-party reviews to YouTube’s power for B2B lead gen, this episode tackles how agencies can prepare clients for a future beyond Google. They also dig into the limitations of ChatGPT’s local recommendations, where blogs still make sense, and what digital PR might look like for small businesses. Practical, honest, and forward-looking.
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Duration: 00:46:16How to Stay Verified on Google, Where Search Is Headed, and What’s Up with Siri?
Jun 13, 2025Send us a text
In this episode, Mike and Greg break down three major developments shaping the local search and AI landscape. First, they tackle the growing wave of Google Business Profile suspensions caused by rigid, AI-driven video verification—where even legitimate businesses are getting flagged. They offer practical advice on how to avoid getting suspended and why field-based verification is now essential.
Next, they explore new consumer survey data showing a significant rise in people using AI tools like ChatGPT and Gemini for local business discovery. But while AI wins ea...
Duration: 00:36:31Google’s Next Move: AI, Antitrust Battles & the Decline of Search
Jun 05, 2025Send us a text
In this episode of The Near Memo, Greg Sterling and Mike Blumenthal break down some of the biggest tectonic shifts happening at the intersection of AI, search, and antitrust law. The focal point? Google's claim that its Gemini AI now boasts 350 million monthly users. But what exactly counts as a user—and does stuffing Gemini into every app and product really mean it’s being used?
Greg and Mike dig deep into how Google is leveraging its product ecosystem—Chrome, Gmail, Workspace, Maps, Android, and Search—to inflate AI engagement numbers. The two...
Duration: 00:29:29Clicks Are Dead, Reviews Are King: Surviving Google’s AI Local Shakeup
May 30, 2025Send us a text
In this jam-packed episode of The Near Memo, hosts Greg Sterling and Mike Blumenthal welcome back Adam Dorfman, VP of Product at BirdEye, for a timely deep dive into the ever-shifting world of local SEO, AI Overviews, and Google’s evolving search ecosystem.
The trio unpacks the seismic shifts happening in local search, AI-generated results, and the new metrics that matter when “clicks” no longer rule. From how Google is leveraging its own ecosystem to dominate AI outputs, to whethe...
Duration: 00:39:01SEO Tactics from the Frontline: Real User Behavior in AI Overviews - Part 2 of the UX Study Analysis
May 21, 2025Send us a text
Welcome to Part 2 of our deep dive into the most revealing SEO and UX research of 2025.
In this episode of the Near Memo podcast, Greg Sterling, Kevin Indig, and Eric Van Buskirk break down how users actually interact with AI Overviews on Google—and what that means for your SEO strategy moving forward.
00:55 – “Trust over Traffic: The SEO Paradigm Shift”
02:10 – “SEO as Traffic Cop, Not Traffic Driver”
03:33 – “Reddit, YouTube & Beyond: Tactical SEO Musts”
07:20 – “Google Killed the Small Guys”
09:05 – “Google’s Fear-Driven Strategy”
11:14 – “Redefining SEO Inside the Org”
12:03 – “Click Recession...
Trust Before Clicks: What Google’s AIO UX Study Reveals About Real User Behavior
May 15, 2025Send us a text
🎙️ Trust Before Clicks: What Real Users Do With Google’s AI Overviews
We’ve all seen the headlines: Google’s AI Overviews (AIOs) are changing search forever. But how do real people actually use them?
In this episode of The Near Memo, we dive into the first behavioral UX study of Google’s AIOs, conducted by Kevin Indig and Eric Van Buskirk. The results? Totally eye-opening—and a little humbling for SEOs.
This wasn’t another clickstream analysis. This was watching users scroll, click (or not), s...
Duration: 00:32:37Google's Power Grab: AI Journeys, Monetized Moments, & the End of SEO as We Know It with Cindy Krum
May 08, 2025Send us a text
In this thought-provoking episode of the Near Memo podcast, SEO veteran Cindy Krum joins Greg Sterling and Mike Blumenthal to unpack how Google's evolving use of AI, including MUM (Multitask Unified Model), is reshaping the search landscape. Krum explains how Google is moving from keyword- and entity-based indexing to modeling “journeys” that reflect a user’s intent — aligning with Google's long-abandoned concept of “micro-moments” like “I want to know,” “I want to go,” “I want to do,” and “I want to buy.” These journeys are increasingly being monetized across different verticals such as YouTube, Merchant Center, an...
Duration: 00:45:44AmpUp Webinar, Yelp’s Antitrust V Google, Google AIO for Local Reviews, ChatGPT Gets Product Search
May 01, 2025Send us a text
00:00 GatherUp's AmpUp Webinar Overview
05:56 Yelp Antitrust Case Insights
13:32 Google Local Review's AI Overviews and Their Impact
26:45 ChatGPT's Shopping Capabilities and Future Directions
In this episode, Greg and Mike discuss the upcoming AmpUp 2025 virtual conference with Mel Atia of GatherUp, focusing on local SEO, reputation management, and the impact of AI on digital strategies. They delve into Yelp's antitrust case against Google, exploring the implications for local search and advertising. The conversation also highlights Google's new local AI feature, local brand summaries as well as changing consumer behaviors and...
Know Before You Go: New on GBP Profiles, G Under Legal Fire, & the Coming Shift in Search
Apr 24, 2025Send us a text
We discuss the latest developments in Google's antitrust trial and the introduction of new AI features in Google Business Profiles. They explore the implications of these changes for local SEO and user experience, as well as the potential future of search in an AI-driven world. The conversation highlights the challenges Google faces in maintaining its market dominance amidst evolving technologies and user expectations.
00:00
Exploring Google's New AI Features
11:17
Antitrust Trial Insights and Google Remedies
24:57
The Future of Search and AI Integration
T<...
Duration: 00:30:16The Future of Reviews: What Businesses Need to Know
Apr 18, 2025Send us a text
Greg Sterling, Mike Blumenthal, and Sammy Paget of BrightLocal discuss the evolving landscape of consumer reviews, focusing on how consumer behavior has changed over the years, the importance of businesses responding to reviews, and the impact of AI on review management. They explore the future of reviews, the decline in trust, and Google's policies regarding review authenticity, emphasizing the need for businesses to prioritize customer service and engagement.
00:00 Consumer Expectations and Business Responses
02:59 The Importance of Customer Engagement
06:25 Common Mistakes Businesses Make with Reviews
08:24 The Future of Reviews...
From Stars to Skepticism: How Reviews Evolved & Why Trust Is Declining - Sammy Paget Interview Part1
Apr 10, 2025Send us a text
01:59 Evolution of Consumer Review Behavior
05:03 Trust in Reviews: A Declining Trend
08:14 The Impact of Fake Reviews and AI
14:18 Alternative Review Platforms and Their Trustworthiness
19:30 Key Findings from the 15-Year Review Study
22:07 Best Practices for Review Solicitation
29:22 Consumer Expectations and Business Responses
In this episode, Greg Sterling, Mike Blumenthal, and guest Sammy Paget from BrightLocal dive deep into 15 years of consumer review research trends. Sammy shares insights from BrightLocal’s long-running consumer review survey, highlighting how online reviews have evolved from novelty to necessity in the pu...
Google’s Euro DMA Headaches, GBP Local Chaos AND Uncharacteristic Google Comms & AI Search Futures
Apr 03, 2025Send us a text
In this milestone 200th episode, the NearMemo crew unpacks Google’s mounting regulatory woes in Europe, including fresh scrutiny under the Digital Markets Act. Mike breaks down a storm of GBP bugs and business suspensions and ponders the fact that Google is actually admitting to them.. Greg steers the convo into the evolving future of search—where AI, chat interfaces, and user expectations are reshaping everything. From legal battles to UI battles, it’s clear: the search landscape is shifting fast.
00:00 Celebrating the 200th Episode (sort of)
01:23 Europe to Google: Play F...
Surviving the New Google: Suspensions & Appeal Delays, AI Overviews, & the Future of Local Marketing
Mar 27, 2025Send us a text
Greg Sterling and Mike Blumenthal discuss the current state of Google suspensions, the impact of AI overviews on local search traffic, and the evolving landscape of digital marketing strategies. They emphasize the importance of businesses becoming less reliant on Google and exploring alternative marketing channels while navigating the challenges posed by AI and changing search dynamics.
Takeaways
•Google's traffic dynamics are shifting, impacting everyone.
•Suspension isues have been fixed but appeals times for reinstatement have increased significantly.
•AI overviews are reducing visibility for organic search results.
•Businesses should b...
EU Targets Google, Listings Get Suspended, and AI Heats Up: Search is Changing Fast
Mar 21, 2025Send us a text
In this episode, Greg and Mike discuss the recent EU findings regarding Google's non-compliance with the Digital Markets Act (DMA), the implications of algorithm changes leading to increased suspensions and verifications, and the evolving landscape of AI competition, particularly focusing on Google's strategies to retain users amidst rising AI technologies. They also explore the future of local SEO and its unique position in the market.
takeaways
Google GBP Suspensions Update, AI in Local Search, Google Selling Chrome? & Tesla’s Brand Freefall
Mar 13, 2025Send us a text
Buckle up for another Near Memo packed with search drama, AI experiments, and a high-speed Tesla takedown. Mike and Greg dive into Google’s ongoing Business Profile suspensions, unpack the latest AI-driven search changes, and speculate on whether Elon Musk has permanently tanked Tesla’s brand. Plus, a peek at Google’s antitrust battle and what losing Chrome could mean for search dominance.
00:00 The State of Google Business Profile Suspensions
09:39 Trump's DOJ to Force Google to Sell Chrome?
12:26 AI Mode and Local Search
24:59 Tesla's Brand Reputation Crisis
T...
Duration: 00:38:53The Rise of GBP Suspensions, Is Google's 5 trillion search number real? New AI Mode IS the Future
Mar 07, 2025Send us a text
00:00 Overview of Topics
01:07 Increase in Business Suspensions - Resinstatements very slow
06:27 Google's Search Query Insights - Is Google Cooking the Books?
21:03 Google's AI Mode as the Future of Search
We discuss the recent increase in suspensions and the delay of reinstatements on Google, the implications of Google's five trillion search queries, and the impact of AI on search. They explore the new AI mode being introduced by Google and how it is the shape the future of search experiences.
Takeaways
✓ There has been a significant inc...
The Evolution of Local Inventory Solutions with Michael Carini, Last Mile Retail
Feb 27, 2025Send us a text
00:00 Introduction to Last Mile Retail
06:04 Evolution of the Business Model
11:35 Market Changes and Competition
17:03 Understanding Good Local SEO
23:03 Microsite Strategy and Implementation
29:47 The Role of AI in Marketing Strategies
37:30 Navigating Paid Campaigns and Google Optimization
45:55 Enhancing Customer Journey and Content Strategy
- Last Mile Retail started by addressing the challenge of local inventory visibility online.
- The company has evolved to serve enterprise clients with a comprehensive local marketing platform.
- AI is being used for content drafting and categorization, but human...
Unlocking Google Business Profile Secrets with Brad Wetherall - ex Director of GBP Support
Feb 20, 2025Send us a text
The Near Media team + several Google Product Experts and Brad Wetherall discuss various aspects of Google Business Profiles, including internal mobility at Google, the challenges of maintaining institutional knowledge, and the complexities of review management. They delve into the recent discrepancies in review counts, the importance of communication from Google, and the impact of trust scores on local guides. The discussion also covers creative strategies for enhancing review authenticity, the challenges of video verification, and the implications of operating hours on business rankings. Additionally, they explore the quality of support across different regions...
Duration: 01:04:53Missing Google Reviews, Ask for me - SMB Timesuck, Gemini Reasoning Model is Future of Local Search
Feb 13, 2025Send us a text
Greg and Mike discuss various topics related to Google's recent changes and features, including issues with review counts on Google Business Profiles, the introduction of the Ask for Me automated calling feature, and the implications for small businesses. They also explore the new Gemini reasoning model and its potential impact on local search and consumer behavior. The conversation highlights the challenges and opportunities presented by these developments in the context of small business operations and marketing strategies.
00:55 Review Count Issues and Google's Response
06:29 Exploring Google's 'Ask For Me' Feature
18:20...
Google Maps: New Features, The Importance of Brand and Declining Review Trust
Feb 07, 2025Send us a text
In this episode, Greg and Mike discuss the 20th anniversary of Google Maps, highlighting its evolution and new features. They delve into the newest Map Top Lists feature, the implications of recent messaging features for businesses and the ongoing decline in consumer trust in online reviews. The conversation also introduces Google's new 'Ask for Me' AI feature, exploring its potential impact on local businesses and consumer interactions.
Takeaways
- Google Maps revolutionized navigation with its interactive features.
- The new restaurant Map List feature in Google Maps enhances visibility...
Google Review Fraud, FTC & Business concerns: Interview with Curtis Boyd, Transparency Company, P#2
Jan 30, 2025Send us a text
In this episode, Mike Blumenthal and Greg Sterling continue their discussion with Curtis Boyd, CEO of the Transparency Company, focusing on the pervasive issue of review fraud. They explore the current landscape of consumer trust in online reviews, the implications of new FTC regulations, and the challenges businesses face in maintaining review integrity. Curtis shares his optimistic outlook on potential solutions and emphasizes the importance of transparency in the review process. The conversation also delves into practical strategies for businesses and marketers to combat fake reviews and improve their online reputation.
00:00...
Google Review Fraud & Its Economic Impact: Interview with Curtis Boyd, Transparency Company, P#1
Jan 23, 2025Send us a text
In this episode, Greg Sterling and Mike Blumenthal discuss the state of review fraud with Curtis Boyd, CEO of the Transparency Company. They explore the complexities of fake reviews, including the different types and metrics used to identify them. The conversation delves into the role of AI in generating fake reviews and the economic impact of review fraud on consumers and businesses. Curtis shares insights from a recent report estimating the financial damage caused by fake reviews, highlighting the challenges faced by ethical businesses in a marketplace rife with deception.
00:10 Introduction...
Navigating Google Reviews - Part 2 of Brad Wetherall, ex-Director of Operations GBP support, Interview
Jan 16, 2025Send us a text
In this episode, Greg and Mike welcome Brad Wetherall, former Director of Operations for Google Business Profile and now CEO of Bitwise Consulting. They discuss the challenges of fake reviews, Google's approach to detecting and managing them, and best practices for businesses to enhance their online reputation. Brad shares insights on the importance of engagement, the role of AI in review management, and the need for businesses to understand Google's policies regarding reviews. The conversation wraps up with Brad's advice for agencies and local marketers on navigating the complexities of online reviews and...
Duration: 00:39:42How Does Google GBP Support Really Work? Brad Wetherall, ex-Director- Support Operations, Interview
Jan 10, 2025Send us a text
Ever wonder how GBP twists the dial to approve an edit? Why they use video verification and what a trust score is? In Part 1 of this interview we learn the answers to those many questions and more.
00:15 Introduction to Brad Wetherall and His Journey
02:53 Transitioning from Google to Bitwise Consulting
05:34 Understanding Google Business Profile Support Structure
08:03d Support Strategies and User Journeys
11:08 The Evolution of Support Systems at Google
13:36 Challenges in Support: Suspensions and Verifications
16:45 The Algorithm Behind Suspensions and Reviews
19:29 Trust and Reporting M...
2024 Local SEO Highlights: Brand Power & Local; AI's Search Shake-Up; DMA reshaping Search
Jan 03, 2025Send us a text
Google Leaks & NavBoost: How Engagement & Brands Shape Local SEO Rankings in 2024:
Mike unpacked revelations from Google's algorithm leaks and their likely importance for Local SEO. We dove into "NavBoost," a technique where Google rewards high engagement and brand signals with better rankings. Think clicks, brand searches, and even driving directions contributing to a business's prominence.
Greg and David noted how brands dominate the search game. We broke down why engagement—real photos, reviews, and strong brand presence—creates a feedback loop that propels rankings. This led us to...
Duration: 00:40:05Exploring Google’s DMA Compliance & User Search Behavior with Siinda’s Stephanie Verilhac
Dec 20, 2024Send us a text
Stephanie Verilhac of Siinda discusses the EU's Digital Markets Act (DMA) and its impact on search behavior. Siinda's research with Near Media showed Google's dominance persists despite compliance changes, with users favoring its ecosystem. Regional differences in search trends were highlighted, including Irish “near me” preferences, French brand loyalty, and Germans' ad clicks. Photos, reviews, and business websites play key roles in user decisions. Verilhac noted Google's partial adherence to the DMA and challenges for smaller businesses in competing with large aggregators. Future DMA updates and expanded research are expected.
In Ep...
The Limits and Future of AI Impact on Maps; Search vs AI: Challenges, Trends, and Consumer Insights
Dec 12, 2024Send us a text
AI and Maps: Current Limitations (many) and Future Prospects (good):
We explore a recent piece by cartographer Kames Killick on how AI will be shaping the geospatial landscape & mapping, despite the mixed results today. Current tools struggle with complex queries, such as mapping open businesses along a route and broader queries that AI should be able to handle. Despite limitations, innovations like geo-trained AI and object classification suggest potential for enhanced location-based services, professional applications, and augmented reality. Emerging technologies may soon enable smoother interaction with geospatial tools and real-time...
GBP’s Naming Shift, Fishkin’s Search Query Insights, & AI's Growing Role in Challenging Google
Dec 06, 2024Send us a text
Extended GBP Business Names - Spam or Legitimate Descriptors?
We explore Google's growing tolerance for extended taglines & descriptors in business names via the Google Business Center and its impact on local SEO strategies. Examples include businesses embedding descriptors like “best plastic surgeon” or “sexual harassment lawyer” into their names that were escalated to Google but were deemed acceptable. These additions act as taglines and significantly boost search visibility by leveraging Google’s algorithm, which treats business names as ranking signals. This shift marks a departure from earlier strict rules, offering businesses...
GBP Suspension Woes & Support #fails, Siri Sherlocking Search, the Fragmentation of Search
Nov 23, 2024Send us a text
Google Business Profile Suspension Woes (01:32–11:03)
The discussion highlights rising frustrations with Google Business Profiles, focusing on increasing suspension rates and difficult reinstatement processes. Businesses face bottlenecks with video verification and unclear policies. Legitimate operations often fall victim, showcasing systemic flaws in Google's automated support and limited pathways for resolution.
Siri’s AI Search Evolution (11:03–20:35)
Siri’s transformation with AI and knowledge graphs marks a major leap in user interaction. Enhanced capabilities include text input, contextual responses, and real-time actions like map queries. Apple’s integration of personalize...
Exploring AI Overviews, SearchGPT & Google’s Evolution: Mark Traphagen on AIO Impact & Future of SEO
Nov 15, 2024Send us a text
AI Overview and Google Search Trends:
In a discussion on AI search trends, Mark Traphagen from SEO Clarity shared insights on Google’s search generative experience (SGE) and its limited functionality in delivering localized results. His analysis highlighted that SGE results in the U.S. tend to be highly informational (91%) and less transactional, especially for keywords related to products. According to Mark, Google’s AI-driven search lacks the capacity to enhance local search results, pointing out that traditional SERP results still perform better. Meanwhile, Google’s AI continues to evolve, with re...
A Google “Pardon”?, Siri’s Search Improvements, Search from Chat GPT is Really Good
Nov 09, 2024Send us a text
Google's Antitrust Battle: Legal and Political Shifts: As Google’s antitrust trial unfolds, recent shifts in U.S. leadership may change the tech giant’s outlook. With Trump’s election win, the likelihood of drastic regulatory action against Google, such as a breakup, appears to be reduced. The new administration’s stance on big tech could soften the Justice Department’s approach, shifting from aggressive oversight to a more business-friendly posture. While there’s bipartisan support for reigning in big tech, motivations differ: Republicans often cite censorship concerns, while Democrats focus on monopolistic...
Duration: 00:46:22AI in Local SEO, Siri Finally Gets Local Search, ChatGPT's Growing User Base
Nov 01, 2024Send us a text
AI in Local SEO: Challenges and Opportunities:
We dive into how AI is reshaping local search. Key insights from Andrew Shotland’s analysis reveal that Google’s AI overviews appear inconsistently in local searches, mainly showing up for broader queries, while lower funnel searches rely on the local pack. New platforms like Perplexity, with licensing from Yelp, seem to offer promising results for complex local queries, potentially challenging Google’s dominance in local search.
Apple Siri Finally Gets Local Search:
Mike showcases Apple’s upgraded Siri new featu...
Conversation with Raj Singh, the founder of Soloist.ai, an AI-powered website builder
Oct 26, 2024Send us a text
Introduction and Background (00:01 - 10:30)
The conversation opens with Greg Sterling introducing Raj Singh, the founder of Soloist.ai, an AI-powered website builder targeted at small businesses and freelancers. Raj shares his background as a serial entrepreneur, highlighting his previous ventures, such as Pulse, acquired by Mozilla, and his journey through the tech landscape from file-sharing companies to AI-driven website creation. This segment sets the stage by exploring Raj’s entrepreneurial journey and interest in simplifying website creation for non-technical users.
Soloist.ai’s Purpose and Unique Features (10:30 - 39:00)
Raj...
Apple Expands Business Connect, Which Directories Matter?, SEMrush Acquires Search Engine Land
Oct 18, 2024Send us a text
Apple Expands Business Connect Beyond Brick-and-Mortar:
It was announced that Apple Business Connect will now include a broader range of businesses, such as e-commerce, work-from-home, and service-area businesses. Businesses will still undergo the Apple verification process but will benefit from a consistent brand presence across apps like Mail, Apple Pay and ultimately Messages. While non-brick-and-mortar businesses won't appear on Apple Maps, their verified logos will be visible in key Apple services like Siri and Spotlights, enhancing brand trust within the Apple ecosystem. This move strengthens Apple's position as a trusted...
Google Tests AI-Organized Carousels in Local, Facebook Tests New Local Tab, Google Declines in Customer Loyalty
Oct 13, 2024Send us a text
Google Tests AI-organized Carousels in Local Search Results for Restaurants & Bars:
Recent test search results for local businesses on Google, particularly restaurants and bars, have been dominated by AI-organized carousels. Searches like “best cocktail bar” now return multiple carousels sequentially down the page, with categories such as rooftop bars, artisanal cocktail bars, and budget-friendly options. These results feature large visuals, ratings, and addresses, allowing users to scroll through various options to view and choose from local listings. Interestingly, the number of carousels varies depending on the location—New York City display...
Places Sites in US? Allure’s Ongoing Google Review Fraud Scandal, FTC Targets AI Tool Rytr for Fake Review Generation
Oct 05, 2024Send us a text
Google's Place Sites: A Compliance Gesture or A True Shift in Search?
Google is rolling out a new feature called "Place Sites" in North America, following its initial launch in Europe as part of compliance with the Digital Markets Act (DMA). The feature presents a carousel of aggregator search results, such as Yelp and TripAdvisor, prominently placed in top positions for local queries like restaurants. The idea is to redirect traffic to competitors to address accusations of Google self-preferencing. However, our testing shows that user engagement has been very, very l...
Search Tactics for EU Hotels, Google’s Updated Spam Guideline, When might Yelp v Google Go to Trial?
Sep 28, 2024Send us a text
How Individual Hotels Can Win in EU Search:
Our research on hotel searches in Europe, revealed that Booking.com dominated user clicks, especially through ads, while Google's Hotel Finder and Business Profiles saw significantly fewer interactions. One surprising discovery was the prominent role of ads, with over 50% of mobile clicks going to ads, particularly Booking.com.
We explore how Google’s algorithm and ad strategies favor aggregators like Booking, rather than individual hotel brands, who do however have an ad opportunity with the new(ish) carousel ad and...
Duration: 00:36:53Google tests Review Badge of Shame in UK; Google’s Antitrust Travails; SMB Marketing Disconnects
Sep 20, 2024Send us a text
Google Testing Review Badge of Shame & More in UK for Review Abuses:
Google has rolled out a new review “badge of shame” and a new help document titled "Business Profile Restrictions for Policy Violations," introducing stricter actions for businesses engaging in deceptive review practices. Currently being tested in the UK, the policy includes a tiered system of penalties, such as preventing new reviews, unpublishing existing ones, and displaying a "badge of shame" for businesses caught with fraudulent reviews. This marks a shift in Google’s approach, as they histori...
Duration: 00:38:06EU Consumer Research in Hotel market, The impact of recent EU fines on Google, Possible remedies to prevent Google self-preferencing
Sep 14, 2024Send us a text
Google and Booking: The Symbiotic Gatekeeper Relationship in European Hotel Search -
We dive into our recent user behavior research findings about hotel searches in Europe. We recruited 100 users each from Spain, France, and Germany, asking them to find hotels in Paris or Rome, and observed how they interacted with Google's search results.
The European hotel market is quite distinct, with behavior in hotel searches differing drastically from other verticals, as well as across countries. This, coupled with Google’s persistent self-preferencing, poses challenges for fair competition.
...
Duration: 00:36:35The Google Review Fraud Landscape in Maps & LSA and How a Business Should Respond From the Vault (Ep 139)
Sep 09, 2024Send us a text
Google Review Fraud Landscape (10:04):
Estimates that 18% of reviews across various platforms are fake.Home service industries, such as locksmiths, moving companies, and HVAC, are heavily affected.Legal sector is also impacted, with fake reviews prevalent among personal injury, criminal defense, and DUI lawyers.LSA Review Fraud (21:25):
Lead generation scammers are stealing business from ethical businesses using fake LSA reviews.They overcharge consumers and use higher ad revenue to improve their bidding strategy within LSA dashboards.... Duration: 00:45:02LSA Gets More GBP Features, Google Maps Gets Cleanup, Yelp Sues Google Over Antitrust
Aug 30, 2024Send us a text
LSA Increasingly relying on GBP Features:
We delve into Google's ongoing “fixes” of LSA features, where reviews and booking tools for LSAs are being integrated from GBP. This move is seen as an attempt to streamline operations and reduce costs, especially in light of Google's recent staffing cuts as well as improve LSA’s ineffective review moderation. While operational efficiency might improve, Google’s tolerance of abuses in GBP means that the risk of review fraud in LSAs will persist.
Google Maps Gets a Makeover: Sleeker Design, but More Ads...
GBP Phone Hacking Problems Persist, New FTC Fake Reviews Rules, SearchGPT & the Future of Search
Aug 23, 2024Send us a text
Google's PR Smoke and Mirrors: Old GBP Phone Hacking Problems Persist Despite Promises:
Spammers and scammers have been able to hijack business phone numbers on Google listings with alarming ease, despite Google's assurances that such problems were swiftly resolved. We conducted an experiment, changing a listing's phone number through a fake business listing. The results were shocking—within minutes, the suggested phone number change was accepted, largely due to the high trust Google places in frequent editors, even those located halfway across the world.
T...
Duration: 00:40:37The Increasing Role of Brand in SEO
Aug 16, 2024Send us a text
The Role of Brand in Seo:
We speak with guest, Mordy Oberstein on the role of branding in SEO, particularly how it has re-emerged as a significant factor in conversions and SEO. We explore the interaction between brand and user experience, and the introduction of Google’s emphasis on brand in its algorithms.
Brand Differentiation and Local SEO:
We delve into how brands differentiate themselves in the marketplace, particularly in local SEO contexts. What are the challenges small businesses face in building brand recognition? How do bran...
GBP Bugs & AI-Driven Layoff Concern, Sale of CNET & Google, Antitrust Remedy: Impact on Apple & SEO
Aug 08, 2024Send us a text
Google's Local Business Service Woes: Persistent Bugs and AI-Driven Layoffs Spark Concern:
There have been ongoing support and technical issues with Google Business Profiles. Major bugs affecting local business profiles have persisted for months and in several cases years, including image misassignments and overzealous suspension algorithms that remove legitimate reviews. Google's support and engineering teams have struggled to resolve these issues, partly due to significant layoffs aimed at funding AI projects. While Google’s local business services might not generate significant revenue for Google, they are crucial for the company's dif...
MindTrip brings AI travel search, Search Shenanigans, Boost Google Local Rankings w/ Engagement?
Aug 02, 2024Send us a text
Segment 1: OpenAI & MindTrip bring AI to search, will it matter?
Last Thursday, OpenAI made waves with an announcement about Search GPT, a prototype aimed at revamping the search experience for ChatGPT users. Promising a two-column format, it aims to ease the search process and challenge traditional search engines like Google. The prototype has the potential to streamline user experience while emphasizing publisher control and cooperation.
In related news, a new travel bot, MindTrip, emerged, offering a conversational approach to travel planning. Users can refine searches for hotels, activities, and dining o...
Reframing how search ranking works, Google Doubles Down on Income, Voice Search Redux? w/ Cindy Krum
Jul 27, 2024Send us a text
SEOs need to reframe how search ranking works - click thru data being the most important factor:
Click data is a cornerstone of Google’s ranking algorithm, as highlighted by recent DOJ findings. Google uses its heavy reliance on click data to grasp new trends swiftly as well as to “understand” page quality.
Traditional SEO elements like title tags, meta descriptions, scheme, great photos and content provide enduring value but with a new twist. These elements are tools to drive clicks and engagement and thus ultimately drive higher rankings...
How Local SEOs are using Gen AI & ChatGPT: Tips, tactics & strategies w/ Darren Shaw & Joy Hawkins
Jul 20, 2024Send us a text
In this extended episode of the Near Memo, Greg Sterling , Joy Hawkins, Darren Shaw & Mike Blumenthal explore the role of generative AI and how it has evolved one year after CHat GPT was released. We cover:
Experiences and opinions on the use of AI tools like ChatGPT in SEO and content creation.The effectiveness of AI in different aspects of agency work, including creative tasks and data analysis.The influence of AI on the quality of content and the evolving nature of SEO strategies.Perspectives on the future impact of AI on t... Duration: 00:46:44Seattle surgeon pays $5 mil review fraud fine; Local Search increasingly shows Google GBP results
Jul 12, 2024Send us a text
Seattle surgeon pays $5 mil fine for review fraud; What responsibility does Google have?
Allure Esthetics and its owner Dr. Java Sagan, were convicted of violating the Consumer Review Fairness Act. They forced 21,000 clients to sign agreements preventing them from leaving honest reviews and engaged in additional deceptive practices like paying for the removal of negative reviews and posting fake ones.
Despite a $5 million fine, Allure Esthetics still shows high ratings on Google and Yelp. Google’s failure to address these fake reviews, raises questions about the pl...
Duration: 00:30:16From the vault: What and why of review fraud on Google how to deal with it
Jul 04, 2024Send us a text
The big picture of review fraud - who does it and why:
We explore the full range of review fraud from fake positive reviews, black hat negative reviews and review extortion with Curtis Boyd of the Transparency Company. How widespread is it, is it growing, which categories are most likely to participate in it and why.
How to deal with fake review attacks and competitors who use fake reviews:
If you are an honest business can you compete in a world rife with review fraud. We dis...
New Research: SMB web lead generation failures & how to fix
Jun 27, 2024Send us a text
Leadferno: a better tools to capture website leads -
Leadferno is a conversion platform designed to transform website visitors into leads through seamless communication tools. Unlike traditional chatbots, Leadferno leverages SMS to facilitate human conversations, which studies show is the preferred communication channel for most people. It’s floating CTAs (Call-to-Actions) on websites encourage visitors to start conversations via text messaging. This approach helps businesses engage more effectively with potential customers by providing a more responsive and preferred communication method.
Leadferno offers various tools, including an...
Duration: 00:46:50Expanding Local Results in SERPS, Cluttered SERP Reduce Organic Traffic, AI Overviews Worsen Search
Jun 20, 2024Send us a text
Google Expanding Local Results in the SERPS to the Exclusion of Organic:
While many SEOs have been focused on AI answers and how they are disrupting search, the story in Local search is different. AI Answers have yet to have any impact in Local but Google, over the past several years has dramatically increased their control & domination of the Local SERPS with Local Entity data and in doing so seem to be in the process of banishing organic results…. this is particularly true in Near Me searches and the EU res...
Rand Fishkin Interview #2: Zero Click, Regulating Google & Coping with the New SEO Reality
Jun 14, 2024Send us a text
In this week’s podcast we discussed the evolution of zero-click search and Rand’s upcoming study with Spark Toro's clickstream data provider, Datos, to explore the impact of AI overviews and changes in zero-click searches across different regions.
Rand argued for more stringent antitrust measures, drawing parallels between Google's practices and historical monopolies that unfairly leveraged their market power to move into new markets. His call for breaking up Google's core services—search, YouTube, and maps—into separate entities could spur innovation and competition.
He advi...
Duration: 00:46:58GBP Chat is Dead, Consumers Frustrated with Search too, Local Takeaways from the API Leak
Jun 09, 2024Send us a text
GBP Chat is Dead, Long Live WhatsApp:
Google nuked both Google Business Profile Chat AND Google Business Messaging last week in a typical show of disregard for the product and the businesses supporting it. This decision comes amid concerns over increasing spam within the GBP chat service, which initially launched in 2017 with high hopes. Despite a significant initial investment, Google's inconsistent product strategy led to its downfall.
Interestingly, Google is now introducing WhatsApp and SMS messaging integration to GBP profiles, suggesting an attempt to fill the void left by t...
Rand Fishkin interview on the importance and learnings from the Google Search Leak
Jun 01, 2024Send us a text
Rand helps us explore the implications of the Google Web Search leak and how it impacts our understanding of how the search ranking aglo actually works
This week we interviewed Rand Fishkin of SparkToro on the details and importance of the Google Search API leak. In discussing the “biggest leak of the last 25 years” we look at
how it provides SEO practitioners with menu of possible experiments to explorethe role of Chrome as a source for click through data... Duration: 00:32:45New SAB Local Ranking Factor & Interpreting Google AI Tea leaves around Search
May 25, 2024Send us a text
New SAB Local Ranking Factor:
Service area businesses have long been a problem on Google Maps. Spam, privacy, suspension AND ranking issues have plagued them since the beginning. Now it appears that there may be hope on the ranking issue. Historically they were ranked around the location from which they were claimed regardless of the service area. Darren Shaw of Whitespark has uncovered some indications that this is starting to change and the ranking signals are more around the service area chosen. Stay tuned.
Interpreting Google AI Tea l...
ChatGPT 4o Makes an Impression, Chaos that was Google I/O is Google, What Does it All Mean for SEOs?
May 16, 2024Send us a text
ChatGPT 4o Makes an Impression:
OpenAI, not so subtly, introduced improvements to ChatGPT 4.0 just before I/O Google's event. The presentation was crisp and focused highlighting OpenAI's ChatGPT 4o enhanced speech capabilities and creative functionalities, such as summarizing audio streams shows and organizing the resultant notes into coherent outlines. Despite some features demoed on Monday being API-exclusive, the potential for ChatGPT to rival Google's search, at least on informational queries, is becoming more clear. Speculation about a potential integration with Apple's iOS adds to this potential, as this could significantly b...
Google finally fixing LSA reviews, Why Google fails, DOJ slidedeck details abusive Google practices
May 10, 2024Send us a text
Is Google Finally fixing LSA reviews?
In a significant update for advertisers and businesses in the UK, Google has announced changes to its Local Services Ads (LSA) review system. Effective July 7, the existing LSA customer review URLs will expire and be replaced with URLs from Google Business Profiles (GBP), centralizing review management under GBP. This shift mandates businesses to have an affiliated GBP to run LSAs, integrating reviews on both platforms.
While it is unclear when or if this change will come to the US, it is...
Duration: 00:25:41From the Vault: Do searchers use Local Finder?, How many links does a local website need? Google's BS around content
May 02, 2024Send us a text
We're taking the week off, but here's an episode (#126) from the "vault" that we think you'll enjoy!
Do Google searchers enter the Local Finder?
Local SEOs wonder whether searchers actually enter the Local Finder from the Pack results. We often think no but our research indicates that not only do searchers enter the Local Finder on a regular basis, they also scroll deep and often pick a business not in the top three.
The Near Memo is a weekly conversation about Search, Social, and Commerce: What happened, why it...
An interview with Dana DiTomaso: To Google GA4 analytics hell & back again
Apr 26, 2024Send us a text
Dana DiTomaso brings her practical insights to the often murky waters of Google Analytics 4 (GA4). Dana, who wears multiple hats as the president and co-founder of KickPoint, shares candid thoughts on the challenges of demystifying GA4. She discusses the shortcomings of GA4, emphasizing its strong data collection capabilities but criticizing its reporting features. Dana emphasizes the necessity of understanding what GA4 and other analytics tools can and cannot do. She advocates for a realistic approach to data, encouraging marketers to focus on trends rather than absolute numbers. She discusses the integration of v...
Duration: 00:33:13Ad Sales Up, Dr. Guilty of Violating Fed. Review Law, Content Only as Good as ChatGPT Will Fail
Apr 19, 2024Send us a text
Ad market dominated by a few players:
The Internet Advertising Bureau released their annual report for 2024. Digital advertising reached a record-high of $225 billion, with the biggest share going to search ($88.8 billion) & display ($66.1 billion). The bulk of this income is distributed across the top 10 advertising platforms and with the end of cookies, their dominance is likely to be reinforced. While paid search's (ie Google’s) share of total revenue declined, real dollars grew 5.2%. With a flattening of search demand, Google's new opt-in Ad Intents contextual format is an e...
Standardizing Review Processes to Avoid Fear, Google Cries Wolf Around DMA, The Future of SGE
Apr 11, 2024Send us a text
Reviews are Like Death & Taxes & Should be Treated that Way:
Miriam Ellis wrote a great article at Moz providing small business owners tips on how to overcome their fear of reviews. But they really need to go further. Given that reviews, like death and taxes, are not going anywhere businesses need to not only remove their fear but create stringent business processes around getting AND contesting reviews that removes their emotions from the process.
Google Cries ‘Wolf” When it Comes to DMA Compliance:
Google's approach to DMA c...
How your agency can increase retention and profitability by offering a fractional CMO as a service
Mar 30, 2024Send us a text
The need to move SMBs from Tactics to Strategy & how fractional CMO’s can do that:
John Jantsch is a seasoned consultant, speaker, and bestselling author, notably recognized for his Duct Tape Marketing brand. He shares his journey of owning an agency for 30 years, highlighting his affinity for small to midsize businesses and the challenges they face, especially regarding budget and focus. Jantsch's Duct Tape Marketing was his solution to the market's need for effective and straightforward marketing services. Over time, his approach evolved into licensing his methodology to other age...
Google Goes to Brussels & attempts to defend their DMA compliance
Mar 29, 2024Send us a text
In this special edition, Mike and David discuss their visit to Brussels to attend Google’s report on their compliance with the European Digital Markets Act (DMA). The DMA, targeting large tech entities including Google, aims to regulate their status as gatekeepers to the internet. This session, specifically addressing Google's compliance, saw over 20 presenters from Google over an extensive eight-hour period, detailing their view of adherence to the DMA's regulations across various aspects of their operations.
The workshop was organized by the European Commission and attended by a di...
Duration: 00:38:54How on page factors & Google updates, Learnings from a G Quality Rater, What is the future of SEO?
Mar 16, 2024Send us a text
What on-page factors are associated with sites that see big gains or declines after Google updates?
Cyrus Shepard explains his recent research looking at correlations between a range of on page factors that might affect Google’s perception of your site and analyzes which factors were associated with increases or decreases in site visibility. Are stock photos a death knell? Are ads a deal breaker? Should contact information be on every page?
What Cyrus learned from being a Google Quality Rater?
It isn’t easy to becom...
Google’s Core Update & FUD, Brightlocal Consumer Review Survey, Do Searchers Use the Local Finder?
Mar 08, 2024Send us a text
Google’s March Core Update & FUD:
David Mihm sheds light on Google's March core update, marking it as an unusually impactful monthly adjustment from the tech giant. The update has sparked extensive conversation among SEO experts. He highlighted three key focus areas of the update: scaled content, largely driven by AI technologies; site reputation abuse; and what is known colloquially as "parasite SEO." The latter involves strategies to boost article visibility and rankings through dubious means, undermining the quality and reliability of search results.
The concept of "...
Duration: 00:42:54Consumer Research Highlights Limited Impact of EU Mandated Local SERP Change & On-going EU Challenge
Mar 01, 2024Send us a text
Consumer Research Highlights Limited Impact of DMA Mandated Google's SERP Changes:
Near Media unveiled findings from their latest research on the restaurant vertical in Ireland, investigating the effects of Google's Search Engine Results Page (SERP) changes in light of the Digital Markets Act. The study aimed to ascertain whether Google's adjustments to its Irish SERP features influence user click behavior or choices, particularly in selecting restaurants. The UI changes implemented by Google, such as the Places Sites module intended to feature local directories and content websites about restaurants, received minimal e...
Long tail searcher behaviors, Gemini switch appears, Content publishing being upended by search
Feb 22, 2024Send us a text
Long tail searcher behaviors: 10% of Discovery searches involve a brand search on Google:
In our most recent multi-location consumer Google search behavior research analyzing restaurant searches we saw roughly 10% of all searchers use the scrolling map for location precision and we saw an equal number of searchers do a local brand search as part of their discovery process. These brand searches seem to be either to better understand a location or to confirm their choice. Oftentimes it was a shorthand way for searchers to increase their confidence in the overall r...
G-SERPs product searches, Google PR around review removals is puffery, Google Maps SGE a hot mess
Feb 15, 2024Send us a text
Google adds Reddit to product searches and spammers follow:
We discuss a new study by Glenn Alsop that examines the prevalence of discussion and forum search features This module is a tacit admission on Google's part that its algorithm can no longer actually surface good organic content. LikeThe study, which analyzed 10,000 product review search queries, revealed significant insights into user behavior and Google's response to search result satisfaction.
According to the findings, the discussions and forums Search Engine Results Page (SERP) feature appears in 77% of the an...
Duration: 00:34:18Will AI Improve SMB Websites? GMaps Getting Gemini, Bright Local Brand Survey Takeaways
Feb 09, 2024Send us a text
Will AI Improve SMB Websites?
Consumers overwhelmingly prefer AI-generated content over human-created content across various formats, signaling a potential shift in online content creation. Businesses and agencies are adopting AI for content creation, citing effectiveness and cost reduction. However, concerns about the loss of human touch and authenticity persist, especially in personal brand building and influencer marketing. While AI can streamline information delivery, the rise of generic AI content may prompt a resurgence in demand for authentic, personalized content from individuals and brands.
Google Maps Getting Conversational AI:
10 years of SERP changes, Hidden Gems update is impacting Local Search, New EU Local Search Results
Feb 02, 2024Send us a text
What 10 years of changes to the SERPS mean for marketers today:
We discuss Andy Crestodina’s most recent article where he looks at 10+ years of changes to google search results and what they mean. He highlights the evolving dynamics of search engine optimization (SEO) and the importance of diversifying marketing strategies beyond just SEO and Google. It underscores the observation that while rankings can be stable over time with continued investment in SEO, changes in Google's algorithms mean that simply achieving a high position in the search engine results pages (SERP) isn...
Fired Google Raters replaced w/ AI? SEO Tools are just tools, Hidden Gems & decline of Big Social
Jan 25, 2024Send us a text
Will Fired Google Raters Be Replaced with AI?
Last week Google terminated their relationship with one of the companies responsible for rating the quality of websites. Certainly Google has been on a cost cutting rampage of late with layoffs and product cancellations. But is the ending of one of their relationships with one of the companies responsible for quality rating just a cost cutting measure or a foreshadowing of Google using AI to perform this important task?
SEO Tools are just tools and should be used with care:
SGE NOT the Future, GBP End Days? Google Chooses Sizzle over Steak?
Jan 20, 2024Send us a text
SGE has huge impacts but is still just a testing ground:
Some industries, like healthcare, are impacted by Google’s SGE (search generative experience) than others with 76% of queries analyzed being impacted by SGE. While other industries show lesser impact, it is still significant. But SGE is still just a test and one that impacts those likely to enroll in these sorts of experiments, like SEO pros. While many SEOs fear that SGE IS the future of search, it is more likely a testing ground as Google figures out exactly how...
LSA Scam & Honest Businesses, Google Created a Shitty Internet? Generative AI & its Impact on Google
Jan 12, 2024Send us a text
How the Google Guarantee Scam Impacts Honest Businesses?
The Google Guarantee Scam is frequently perpetrated by groups of foreign nationals working in relative anonymity and looking for a quick profit. While some blame goes to these actors, the ultimate fault and responsibility lies with Google. Honest businesses have been negatively impacted by the Google Guarantee LSA scam:
Exposing the Google Local Service Ads Scam in Home Services: A Marketer's Insight
Jan 11, 2024Send us a text
Join us in this eye-opening discussion with Zachary Dotson, an experienced marketer in the home services industry, as he sheds light on a rampant scam in Google Local Service Ads. Learn how fake companies are exploiting the system with stolen licenses and profiles, bait-and-switch pricing tactics, and the impact on legitimate businesses and consumers. Discover the challenges faced in tackling these scams and the response from authorities and Google. This conversation with Mike Blumenthal from Near Media is a must-watch for anyone in the service industry or those who use online ads for...
Duration: 00:14:17