Rand Fishkin interview on the importance and learnings from the Google Search Leak

The Near Memo

#Entrepreneur #Business #News #Marketing #Tech News #Greg Sterling, Mike Blumenthal & David Mihm #David Mihm #Greg Sterling #Mike Blumenthal #Google #Apple #Meta #Amazon #Entrepreneurship #SEO

35:19

We’ve turned intuition into a buzzword—flattened it into a slogan, a gut feeling, or a vague whisper we don’t always know how to hear. But what if intuition is so much more? What if it's one of the most powerful tools we have—and we’ve just forgotten how to use it? In this episode, I’m joined by Hrund Gunnsteinsdóttir , Icelandic thought leader, filmmaker, and author of InnSæi: Icelandic Wisdom for Turbulent Times . Hrund has spent over 20 years studying and teaching the science and art of intuition through her TED Talk, Netflix documentary ( InnSæi: The Power of Intuition ), and global work on leadership, innovation, and inner knowing. Together, we explore what intuition really is (hint: not woo-woo), how to cultivate it in a culture obsessed with logic and overthinking, and why your ability to listen to yourself might be the most essential skill you can develop. In This Episode, We Cover: ✅ Why we’ve misunderstood intuition—and how to reclaim it ✅ Practical ways to strengthen your intuitive muscle ✅ What Icelandic wisdom teaches us about inner knowing ✅ How to use intuition during uncertainty and decision-making ✅ Why trusting yourself is an act of rebellion (and power) Intuition isn’t magic—it’s a deep, internal guidance system that already exists inside you. The question is: are you listening? Connect with Hrund: Website: www.hrundgunnsteinsdottir.com TedTalk: https://www.ted.com/talks/hrund_gunnsteinsdottir_listen_to_your_intuition_it_can_help_you_navigate_the_future?utm_campaign=tedspread&utm_medium=referral&utm_source=tedcomshare Newsletter: https://hrundgunnsteinsdottir.com/blog/ LI: www.linkedin.com/in/hrundgunnsteinsdottir IG: https://www.instagram.com/hrundgunnsteinsdottir/ Book: InnSæi: Icelandic Wisdom for Turbulent Times Related Podcast Episodes: How To Breathe: Breathwork, Intuition and Flow State with Francesca Sipma | 267 VI4P - Know Who You Are (Chapter 4) Gentleness: Cultivating Compassion for Yourself and Others with Courtney Carver | 282 Share the Love: If you found this episode insightful, please share it with a friend, tag us on social media, and leave a review on your favorite podcast platform! 🔗 Subscribe & Review: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Amazon Music…

about a year ago 32:45

MP3•Episode home

Send 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 explore
the role of Chrome as a source for click through data and what it means for link builders
How this click through data seems to be one of the most important ranking factors
Why links on low performing pages have absolutely no value and thus why many citations no longer do either
whether Ad clicks might in fact influence rank
How should we think about “web references” aka mentions vs Links

The Near Memo is a weekly conversation about Search, Social, and Commerce: What happened, why it matters, and the implications for local businesses and national brands.

Ep 159

Subscribe to our newsletters and other content at https://www.nearmedia.co/subscribe/

212 episodes

Rand Fishkin interview on the importance and learnings from the Google Search Leak

The Near Memo

published about a year ago

MP3•Episode home

Send 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 explore
the role of Chrome as a source for click through data and what it means for link builders
How this click through data seems to be one of the most important ranking factors
Why links on low performing pages have absolutely no value and thus why many citations no longer do either
whether Ad clicks might in fact influence rank
How should we think about “web references” aka mentions vs Links

The Near Memo is a weekly conversation about Search, Social, and Commerce: What happened, why it matters, and the implications for local businesses and national brands.

Ep 159

Subscribe to our newsletters and other content at https://www.nearmedia.co/subscribe/

212 episodes

#Entrepreneur #Business #News #Marketing #Tech News #Greg Sterling, Mike Blumenthal & David Mihm #David Mihm #Greg Sterling #Mike Blumenthal #Google #Apple #Meta #Amazon #Entrepreneurship #SEO

All episodes

The Near Memo

1
Trust Before Clicks: What Google’s AIO UX Study Reveals About Real User Behavior 32:37

4 days ago32:37

32:37

Send 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), skim, and decide across 8 real-world search tasks. Think local searches, health queries, shopping comparisons—all captured through screen recordings, scroll logs, and detailed annotations. 📊 Here’s What They Found: 1. Clicks Are Not Conversions Only about 1 in 5 “final answers” came from AIOs. Most users finished their journey with traditional organic results, Reddit, YouTube, or maps. Clicking doesn’t always mean trusting—or converting. 2. Trust Comes Before Relevance Users no longer scan the SERP for “the best answer.” They scan for brands they recognize and sources they trust . If they don’t know you, they scroll right past—even if you’re ranked #1. 3. Reviews Are the Ultimate Shortcut In both local and shopping searches, people hunted for review stars. They scrolled back and forth just to find them. The takeaway? Reviews aren’t just helpful—they’re directional beacons in search. 4. Most People Skim AIOs A whopping 86% of users skimmed AIOs. Unless the query was high-risk (think: health or finance), they treated the AI summary like a TL;DR intro and kept scrolling. 5. Risk = Depth The more serious the query, the deeper the engagement. People spent more time reading, clicked more links to fact-check, and acted with more skepticism. 6. AIO Links Are Largely Ignored Those little citation icons in AIOs? Most users didn’t touch them. Even large panels full of links got barely any engagement. Why? Because people didn’t perceive them as useful or actionable. 7. Users Are Skeptical—But Still Satisfied Despite checking citations and bouncing around the page, users still reported high satisfaction with AIOs. Trust is sticky. If something “feels” complete, users stop looking—even if it’s flawed. 8. Google Benefits from the Illusion Kevin and Eric argue that Google has long benefited from the mistaken belief that it’s the whole journey. In reality, search behavior is multi-touch , cross-platform , and often ends somewhere else entirely. 🎯 Final Thought: Trust Is the New CTR If your brand isn’t already in the user’s mind, your perfect answer won’t matter. Clicks are a vanity metric. Final answers are what really count. To win now, SEOs must: Build brand trust before the search starts Be visible across platforms (Reddit, YouTube, forums) Focus on reviews and SERP presence Understand how different search intents drive behavior This is Part One of a two-part conversation. In Part Two, we unpack the strategic takeaways and what marketers should do next. Because in the era of AI Overviews, it’s not about ranking first—it’s about being the last place users need to go. Subscribe to our newsletters and other content at https://www.nearmedia.co/subscribe/…

The Near Memo

1
Google's Power Grab: AI Journeys, Monetized Moments, & the End of SEO as We Know It with Cindy Krum 45:44

11 days ago45:44

45:44

Send 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, and local results, as Google balances expensive AI integration with ad revenue optimization. The trio also explores the convergence of Google Discover, AI Overviews, and personalized browsing experiences — warning that this personalization could result in unprecedented data tracking and loss of consumer privacy. Krum emphasizes that marketers and SEOs must adapt quickly: diversify traffic sources, optimize across social and non-Google platforms, and consider how Google's motivations (data consolidation and monetization) are shaping an experience that prioritizes corporate interests over user needs. The message is clear — traditional SEO tactics won’t survive the AI-driven tide unless they evolve dramatically. Takeaways Cindy Krum discusses the MUM model and its impact on SEO. Google's monetization strategies are evolving with AI integration. Personalization in search is becoming increasingly important. Marketers need to optimize for user intent and MUM journeys. Informational queries represent a significant portion of search traffic. Diversifying traffic sources is crucial for digital marketers. Branding and social media presence are essential for visibility. The search landscape is changing rapidly due to AI advancements. Marketers should be proactive in adapting to these changes. Understanding user journeys will be key to future SEO strategies. Subscribe to our newsletters and other content at https://www.nearmedia.co/subscribe/…

The Near Memo

1
AmpUp Webinar, Yelp’s Antitrust V Google, Google AIO for Local Reviews, ChatGPT Gets Product Search 33:03

18 days ago33:03

33:03

Send 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 the implications of ChatGPT getting into product search. Takeaways AmpUp 2025 is a free virtual conference focused on local SEO and reputation management. The event will feature sessions on AI's impact on digital agencies and local search strategies. Yelp's antitrust case against Google could reshape the local search landscape. Google's dominance in local search raises questions about competition and consumer choice. AI overviews may simplify search but could misalign with user intent. Younger consumers are diversifying their search habits beyond Google. Businesses must manage their online reputation across multiple platforms. Engagement data is crucial for understanding consumer behavior in search. The future of search may involve more personalized and AI-driven experiences. Understanding audience behavior is essential for effective digital marketing. Subscribe to our newsletters and other content at https://www.nearmedia.co/subscribe/…

The Near Memo

1
Know Before You Go: New on GBP Profiles, G Under Legal Fire, & the Coming Shift in Search 30:16

25 days ago30:16

30:16

Send 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 akeaways Google is introducing AI features to replace the Q & A and People Also Ask. User experience is suffering due to the cluttered interface of Google search results. User experience is suffering due to the cluttered interface of Google search results. The outcome of the antitrust trial could reshape the competitive landscape for Google. AI tools are seen as a threat to Google's traditional search model. The future of search may involve more conversational interfaces. Google's dominance in search is being challenged by emerging technologies. However, Google is the main game in town today but may not be as we transition to new hardware paragigms The integration of AI in search plus new hardwardcould lead to a more efficient user experience. However it is likely to be 5 years out. Will Google and Apple keep their dominant positions? Subscribe to our newsletters and other content at https://www.nearmedia.co/subscribe/…

The Near Memo

1
The Future of Reviews: What Businesses Need to Know 30:40

5 weeks ago30:40

30:40

Send 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 and AI Integration 13:50 Trust and Alternative Sources of Information 17:42 The Role of AI in Review Management 22:43 Google's Trust Report and Review Management 27:27 The Impact of Reviews on Education Institutions 30:49 Final Thoughts on Reviews and Business Practices Takeaways •Consumers expect businesses to respond to all types of reviews. •89% of consumers are likely to use businesses that respond to reviews. •Engagement through review responses can boost a business's reputation. •AI is changing how reviews are summarized and presented to consumers. •Trust in online reviews has declined, leading to alternative sources of information. •Businesses should focus on delivering excellent service to encourage positive reviews. •Google's aggressive removal of reviews aims to restore trust in the platform. •The badge of shame for manipulated reviews may not significantly impact consumer behavior. •Review responses should be thoughtful and engaging to signal business engagement. •Businesses need to view reviews as valuable feedback for improvement. Subscribe to our newsletters and other content at https://www.nearmedia.co/subscribe/…

The Near Memo

1
From Stars to Skepticism: How Reviews Evolved & Why Trust Is Declining - Sammy Paget Interview Part1 29:48

6 weeks ago29:48

29:48

Send 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 purchase journey. But as the role of reviews has grown, so has consumer skepticism. The trio discusses the sharp drop in review trust, the increasing sophistication of fake reviews—especially those powered by AI—and the paradox that while people trust reviews less, they still rely on them heavily. They also explore the growing use of alternative platforms like local news, YouTube, TikTok, and Reddit as sources of business recommendations. Plus, they examine generational behavior and cultural differences in review reading habits. Whether you're a local business owner or just fascinated by how we evaluate things online, this segment is packed with context and conversation on how trust and behavior around reviews is shifting—and what that means moving forward. Subscribe to our newsletters and other content at https://www.nearmedia.co/subscribe/…

The Near Memo

1
Google’s Euro DMA Headaches, GBP Local Chaos AND Uncharacteristic Google Comms & AI Search Futures 35:39

7 weeks ago35:39

35:39

Send 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 Fair or Pay Up 13:48 Google’s GBP Meltdown: Bugs, Delays & Suspensions—Oh My! And They Admit It! 21:42 The Future of Search: Bing’s Chance, Google’s Dilemma, and the Chat UX Revolution Takeaways David discusses his recent trip to Europe and the implications of the Digital Markets Act (DMA). The DMA aims to create a fairer digital market, particularly regarding Google's self-preferencing practices. There is a lack of awareness among marketers in Europe about the DMA and its potential impact. AI overviews from Google may fall under the DMA's regulations due to their proprietary nature. The conversation highlights the need for businesses to adapt to changes in search interfaces driven by AI. Google's current challenges with Business Profiles are causing significant issues for businesses. Google, in uncharacteristic fashion actually admitted to these problems. Is this a new, more transparent Google or just a temporary change because so much has gone so wrong in such a short time. The hosts discuss the potential for Bing to innovate and capture market share in the evolving search landscape. Marketers should monitor traffic and visibility in AI platforms like ChatGPT and Copilot. The hype around AI in search is significant, but its impact on traffic is still developing. The conversation emphasizes the need for marketers to stay informed and adapt to rapid changes in the digital marketing environment. Subscribe to our newsletters and other content at https://www.nearmedia.co/subscribe/…

The Near Memo

1
Surviving the New Google: Suspensions & Appeal Delays, AI Overviews, & the Future of Local Marketing 23:51

8 weeks ago23:51

23:51

Send 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 be cautious when making changes to their listings. •The importance of managing Google Business Profiles is highlighted. •Only a small percentage of businesses actively manage their reviews. •Building a brand independent of Google is crucial for success. •Social media is a primary channel for customer engagement amongst SMBS. •AI traffic is not a substitute for traditional search traffic. •Google's strategy is to retain users by integrating AI into search. 01:36 Update: Google Suspensions/Reverification Fix and Backlog 05:36 The Rise of AI Overviews in Local Search 11:27 Navigating the Future of Google and AI 16:56 Marketing Strategies in a Changing Landscape Subscribe to our newsletters and other content at https://www.nearmedia.co/subscribe/…

The Near Memo

1
EU Targets Google, Listings Get Suspended, and AI Heats Up: Search is Changing Fast 32:27

8 weeks ago32:27

32:27

Send 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's violation of the DMA highlights ongoing regulatory scrutiny. Suspensions and verifications are increasing, indicating algorithmic changes. AI mode may be sufficient for many users, keeping them within Google's ecosystem. Local SEO is less impacted by AI than generic publishers. Conversions should be the focus for local businesses, not just traffic. 00:00 EU's Preliminary Findings on Google and Apple 08:51 Suspension Verification Algorithm Issues 16:08 AI Competition and Market Dynamics Subscribe to our newsletters and other content at https://www.nearmedia.co/subscribe/…

The Near Memo

1
Google GBP Suspensions Update, AI in Local Search, Google Selling Chrome? & Tesla’s Brand Freefall 38:53

10 weeks ago38:53

38:53

Send 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 The State of Google Business Profile Suspensions: What’s Going On? Google Business Profile suspensions are on the rise, and support is crawling at a snail’s pace. Mike breaks down why small businesses should not touch their listings right now (seriously, don’t even breathe on them). Is this a bug, a crackdown, or just Google losing control of its own algorithm? Google’s Antitrust Battle: Will Chrome Be Sold Off? The DOJ wants Google to offload Chrome as part of its latest antitrust smackdown. Google, of course, thinks that’s a terrible idea. But if the judge agrees, this could shake up search in a big way—especially since Chrome feeds Google a ton of juicy user data. The appeal process will be long, but this could be the biggest change to Google’s search empire in years. AI Mode and Local Search: A Game Changer or a Mess? AI-powered local search is officially here! Greg takes us on a tour of Google's experimental AI Mode , which is serving up completely different local results than the usual search listings. Businesses, buckle up—this could make optimizing for local search way more unpredictable. Is AI Mode the future, or is it just another search rabbit hole? Tesla’s Reputation Crisis: Can the Brand Recover? Tesla's reviews are tanking, and it’s not just because of Elon’s Twitter antics—customers are furious about service and quality issues . But now that Musk has also alienated half his customer base, things are getting worse. Will Tesla pull a Microsoft-style comeback, or is this the beginning of the end? Mike and Greg break it down. Takeaways There has been a dramatic increase in Google Business Profile suspensions since January. Google's support is resource-constrained, leading to delays in addressing suspensions. Businesses should avoid making changes to their Google profiles to prevent further complications. The Department of Justice is pursuing antitrust actions against Google, which could lead to significant changes in the market. AI mode in local search is showing different results compared to traditional search methods. Tesla's brand reputation is suffering due to a combination of service issues and political controversies surrounding Elon Musk. The correlation between Tesla's sales and declining ratings suggests a complex relationship between customer satisfaction and sales performance. Google's algorithm changes may be causing unintended consequences for businesses. The verification process for Google Business Profiles is often seen as irrational and overly rigid. The future of Tesla's brand depends on addressing service issues and the public's perception of Elon Musk. Subscribe to our newsletters and other content at https://www.nearmedia.co/subscribe/…

The Near Memo

1
The Rise of GBP Suspensions, Is Google's 5 trillion search number real? New AI Mode IS the Future 31:23

11 weeks ago31:23

31:23

Send 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 increase in complaints about Google suspensions. ✓ Google's new one appeal and done process limits reinstatement attempts. ✓ The five trillion search queries reported by Google is a notable figure but hacked. ✓ User behavior is shifting away from Google towards alternative search options. ✓ AI mode represents a significant evolution in Google's search capabilities. ✓ Google is actively trying to retain users amidst growing competition from AI. ✓ Gemini, Google's AI, is still developing and improving rapidly but its still not as good as ChatGPT. ✓ The future of search will likely involve more complex user interactions. ✓ Google is experimenting with various user interface elements to enhance search. ✓ User engagement with AI tools is changing the way queries are formed. titles Subscribe to our newsletters and other content at https://www.nearmedia.co/subscribe/…

The Near Memo

1
The Evolution of Local Inventory Solutions with Michael Carini, Last Mile Retail 48:16

12 weeks ago48:16

48:16

Send 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 oversight remains crucial. - User engagement is significantly improved with rich content and local inventory data. - Local SEO is becoming increasingly important for businesses to remain competitive. - Understanding customer journeys is essential for effective local marketing strategies. - The integration of local inventory data can enhance visibility across multiple platforms. - AI search platforms are emerging as valuable tools for local marketing. - Businesses need to focus on unique, high-quality content rather than generic outputs. - The future of local marketing will require adaptability to new technologies and consumer behaviors. Subscribe to our newsletters and other content at https://www.nearmedia.co/subscribe/…

The Near Memo

1
Unlocking Google Business Profile Secrets with Brad Wetherall - ex Director of GBP Support 1:04:53

13 weeks ago1:04:53

1:04:53

Send 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 and the potential for paid support options, as well as the influence of AI on local listings. 00:00 Introduction to Brad Wetherall and His Background 04:04 Google Personnel Policies Leading to a Loss of Google Local Institutional Knowledge 17:57 Communication Challenges During Review Issues 23:41 Trust Scores and Local Guides' Impact on Reviews 28:46 Identifying and Reporting Spam Listings 32:58 Engagement and Business Verification Challenges 36:44 Improving Video Verification Processes 41:17 Handling Duplicate Listings 44:07 Managing Business Hours Effectively 47:30 Differences in Support Quality between Countries 48:59 Exploring Paid GBP Support Options 53:27 Understanding Google’s Data Sources 56:34 The Impact of AI on Local Listings 57:19 Trust Score and User Management takeaways Google encourages internal mobility to retain talent which might cause a loss of Local institutional knowledge. Documentation is extensive but not always utilized effectively. Algorithm adjustments can lead to review discrepancies. Proactive communication from Google is often lacking. Trust scores influence the acceptance of edits. Creative strategies can enhance review authenticity. Multiple signals are considered when identifying spam listings. Engagement signals impact visibility in search results. Maintaining a corporate email domain is beneficial for trust. AI-generated content is monitored and regulated by Google. Subscribe to our newsletters and other content at https://www.nearmedia.co/subscribe/…

The Near Memo

1
Missing Google Reviews, Ask for me - SMB Timesuck, Gemini Reasoning Model is Future of Local Search 36:31

14 weeks ago36:31

36:31

Send 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 Concerns About Small Businesses and AI Interactions 22:20 Gemini's New Reasoning Model for iPhone is the Future of Local Search Subscribe to our newsletters and other content at https://www.nearmedia.co/subscribe/…

The Near Memo

1
Google Maps: New Features, The Importance of Brand and Declining Review Trust 43:26

14 weeks ago43:26