This week I'm interviewing Holly Homer, co-founder of PageWheel and the creative force behind KidsActivities.com.
Episode Highlights:
- Introduction to Holly Homer: Holly shares her remarkable journey from starting one of the first mom blogs to creating a sustainable business that supports her family.
- Streamlining Digital Product Creation: Discover how PageWheel can generate sales pages, thank you pages, delivery emails, and social media content, reducing the time and effort needed for digital marketing.
- SEO Strategies and Opt-in Benefits: Holly explains the critical role of structured content and opt-ins in building and controlling web traffic, enhancing user experience, and improving search engine rankings.
- Editorial Calendar Best Practices: Get practical tips on creating and managing an editorial calendar to ensure your content remains timely, relevant, and engaging.
- Maximizing Email Engagement: Learn Holly's effective strategies for maintaining a highly engaged email list, driving repeat traffic, and maximizing the value of your email subscribers.
- Internal Linking and Content Optimization: Understand the importance of internal linking to improve user navigation and boost SEO performance, along with tips on updating and optimizing old content.
Resources Mentioned:
- PageWheel: Visit PageWheel for a comprehensive tool that streamlines digital product creation.
- KidsActivities.com: Explore Holly’s blog for a plethora of fun and educational activities for kids.
Subscribe & Leave a Review: Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe to the podcast and leave a review on your favorite platform. Your feedback helps us deliver more valuable content to help you grow your business!
The Growth GearExplore business growth and success strategies with Tim Jordan on 'The Growth Gear.
Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify
This Is PropagandaChallenging marketers' delusions about the cultural impact of our work. A WEBBY winner!
Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify
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In this episode of the Simple and Smart SEO Show, I chat with Edwin Romero, an SEO expert I met at Brighton SEO in San Diego.
We explore several key aspects of SEO:
- The importance of targeting high-intent, long-tail keywords over high-volume, short-tail ones to boost conversions.
- The necessity of personalized SEO strategies and a deep understanding of customer needs.
Our discussion extends to the intricacies of website migrations, including:
- meticulous planning,
- effective redirects,
- and their impact on SEO.
Edwin offers valuable insights on various e-commerce platforms like Salesforce Commerce Cloud, Shopify, and Magento, highlighting their unique features and the challenges associated with their migrations.
We also explore Edwin's dual role in managing his independent SEO consultancy alongside his family's import business. He shares how he balances these responsibilities with caring for his growing family and mental health.
Connect With Edwin
Website
Linkedin
Out of Office Chat Podcast
Notable Moments
0:00 Strategic SEO and Business Growth: Lessons and Tips w/ Edwin Romero
00:41 Introduction and Guest Welcome
01:04 Edwin Romero's Background in SEO
01:16 Specialization in Salesforce Commerce Cloud
02:10 Balancing SEO Practice and Family Business
03:45 Understanding Salesforce Commerce Cloud
05:57 Exploring Magento and Website Migrations
08:24 Planning a Successful Website Migration
14:10 Pragmatic SEO Approach
15:56 SEO and Conversion Optimization
17:14 The Out of Office Podcast
17:22 Creative Outlets and Podcasting
17:38 Balancing Family and Hobbies
17:58 Books and Movies as Hobbies
18:26 Exploring Unique Reads
19:19 Multiverse and De-stressing
20:42 Transition from Corporate to Entrepreneurship
21:49 Challenges of Independent Consultancy
23:52 Building an SEO Strategy
24:48 Tailoring Strategies to Unique Brands
29:31 Learning and Growing as an Entrepreneur
Explore business growth and success strategies with Tim Jordan on 'The Growth Gear.
Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify
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Note:
If you make a purchase using some of my links, I make a little money.
But I only ever share products, people, & offers I trust & use myself!
This episode of the Simple and Smart SEO Show features Crystal Waddell and special guest Celeste Gonzalez of Rickety Roo discussing the importance of user experience in SEO and the benefits of using Microsoft Clarity.
*takes breath*
We talk about so many SEO-adjacent topics:
- strategies for boosting conversions,
- the significance of focusing on the user,
- and the utilization of tools like heat maps and session recordings to analyze and improve website performance.
Key takeaways include:
- understanding scroll depth,
- identifying dead clicks and rage clicks,
- and integrating user behavior data to optimize content and technical SEO.
The episode offers actionable insights for business owners, SEO enthusiasts, and solo entrepreneurs looking to enhance their website's performance effectively and efficiently.
00:00 Introduction to SEO and User Experience
00:39 Welcome to the Simple and Smart SEO Show
00:58 Meet Celeste Gonzalez
01:36 Celeste's Journey into SEO
02:14 The Story Behind Rickety Roo
03:01 Celeste's Role at Rickety Roo
05:29 Women in Tech SEO Community
07:42 Importance of Mobile Optimization
11:07 Microsoft Clarity and SEO Adjacency
18:10 Using Heat Maps and Session Recordings
18:32 Optimal Data Collection Periods
19:29 Seasonality and Data Relevance
20:16 Limitations and Features of Microsoft Clarity
22:43 Key Metrics for Solo Entrepreneurs
24:30 Understanding User Behavior with Heat Maps
26:04 Enhancing User Journeys with Content Insights
28:47 E-commerce Insights and Smart Events
35:29 Tracking Changes and User Experience
Connect With Celeste:
Linkedin
X
Read The Article That Inspired This Episode on The Wix Learning Hub
Explore business growth and success strategies with Tim Jordan on 'The Growth Gear.
Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify
This Is PropagandaChallenging marketers' delusions about the cultural impact of our work. A WEBBY winner!
Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify
Search the Simple and Smart SEO Show podcast for something you heard! It's free!
Apply to be my podcast guest! 🎙️ Don't forget to Put your pitch topic in the subject line!
AFFILIATE LINKS:
Start your Shopify Store!
Get Carry (formerly Ocho): the best retirement resources for entrepreneurs!
Note:
If you make a purchase using some of my links, I make a little money.
But I only ever share products, people, & offers I trust & use myself!
In this episode of Follow Through Fridays on the Simple and Smart SEO Show, I review actionable SEO and blogging strategies shared in the podcast with Steven Schneider of Trio SEO.
I discuss my experiences applying these tips on my new Wix website and Shopify store to enhance user experience and optimization.
My key takeaways are:
- simplifying navigation,
- optimizing for search intent,
- using professional photography,
- and boosting user trust with reviews and detailed "about" sections.
I also cover social SEO, optimizing owned assets, and creating bottom-of-funnel content.
Join my SEO Squad for weekly SEO implementation, accountability and feedback!
Search the Simple and Smart SEO Show podcast for something you heard! It's free!
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AFFILIATE LINKS:
Start your Shopify Store!
Get Carry (formerly Ocho): the best retirement resources for entrepreneurs!
Note:
If you make a purchase using some of my links, I make a little money.
But I only ever share products, people, & offers I trust & use myself!
In this episode of the Simple and Smart SEO Show, I chat with Steven Schneider from Trio SEO.
We discuss the importance of understanding the power of SEO and the transformation it can bring to a brand.
Steven shares his journey into SEO, starting from blogging in college to building a successful SEO agency.
Key points include:
1. The evolution of affiliate marketing and its current challenges.
2. The importance of high-quality, human-written content.
3. How AI tools can assist but not replace humans in SEO.
4. Practical strategies for small businesses to enhance their SEO.
We also explore the differences between top, middle, and bottom funnel content, and the significance of user experience and search intent.
Want to connect with Steven?
Find him on LinkedIn.
Explore business growth and success strategies with Tim Jordan on 'The Growth Gear.
Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify
This Is PropagandaChallenging marketers' delusions about the cultural impact of our work. A WEBBY winner!
Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify
Search the Simple and Smart SEO Show podcast for something you heard! It's free!
Apply to be my podcast guest! 🎙️ Don't forget to Put your pitch topic in the subject line!
AFFILIATE LINKS:
Start your Shopify Store!
Get Carry (formerly Ocho): the best retirement resources for entrepreneurs!
Note:
If you make a purchase using some of my links, I make a little money.
But I only ever share products, people, & offers I trust & use myself!
In this episode of the Simple and Smart SEO Show, I interview Erika Varangouli about SEO and its intersection with brand building.
- We discuss key insights into conversion rate optimization, the historic division between SEO and paid landing pages, and the holistic approach required to build trust and relevance for small businesses.
- Erika shares her journey from working at Semrush to heading SEO and branded content at Riverside FM, emphasizing the importance of user experience and community engagement in SEO strategies.
- We also touch on the impact of genuine, useful content over traditional ranking strategies, and highlight the need for small businesses to evaluate their SEO efforts periodically while focusing on delivering value to their audience.
- Erika also shares insights on evaluating and adjusting SEO strategies, the value of answering customer questions, and leveraging platforms like LinkedIn and Reddit for organic growth.
- Our conversation discussed the need for relevant traffic over mere rankings and underscores the critical role of customer connection in successful SEO campaigns.
Connect with Erika Varangouli
Linkedin
00:00 Introduction and Early Questions
00:40 Welcome to the Simple and Smart SEO Show
01:02 Meet Erika Varangouli
01:37 Erika's Journey in SEO and Branding
02:31 The Intersection of SEO and Branding
03:40 The Importance of Consistency in Marketing
07:06 Personal Stories and Business Insights
16:09 Creating Effective SEO Strategies
18:17 Building Trust and Gathering Reviews
18:28 Understanding Your Audience's Search Intent
18:59 Leveraging Competitor Insights
19:26 Engaging Your Community and Encouraging Word of Mouth
21:08 The Google and Reddit Relationship
24:48 SEO's Role Beyond Lead Generation
27:44 Conversion Rate Optimization and SEO
32:25 Evaluating and Adjusting Your Strategy
Explore business growth and success strategies with Tim Jordan on 'The Growth Gear.
Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify
Search the Simple and Smart SEO Show podcast for something you heard! It's free!
Apply to be my podcast guest! 🎙️ Don't forget to Put your pitch topic in the subject line!
AFFILIATE LINKS:
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Get Carry (formerly Ocho): the best retirement resources for entrepreneurs!
Note:
If you make a purchase using some of my links, I make a little money.
But I only ever share products, people, & offers I trust & use myself!
In this Follow Through Friday episode of the Simple and Smart SEO Show, I'm discussing the concept of owned asset optimization, inspired by a conversation with Jonas Sickler from Terakeet.
This episode highlights practical SEO strategies and the importance of creating and distributing owned assets that align with business objectives, particularly:
- The importance of aligning social media strategies with business goals, rather than merely following platform guidelines.
- The Mach-6 framework of owned, managed, and leveraged assets, focusing on how brands can optimize their digital properties for better marketing outcomes.
- I also reflects on the benefits of controlling one's website content and the limitations of relying on third-party platforms like Amazon.
00:00 Introduction to Follow Through Fridays
00:24 Understanding Owned Asset Optimization
00:46 Social Media Strategies for Business Goals
02:40 Pinterest Best Practices and Business Perspective
04:23 The Importance of Owned Assets
05:46 Implementing the Terakeet Mach-6 Framework
08:16 Leveraging Amazon for Product Distribution
09:49 Exploring the Managed and Leveraged Levels
11:19 Analyzing Search Engine Results for Your Brand
14:49 Conclusion and Invitation to Join the SEO Squad
Check out the Mach-6 Framework on Terakeet's website!
Search the Simple and Smart SEO Show podcast for something you heard! It's free!
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Note:
If you make a purchase using some of my links, I make a little money.
But I only ever share products, people, & offers I trust & use myself!
In this episode of the Simple and Smart SEO Show, I spoke with Jonas Sickler, a digital marketing analyst from Terakeet. We explored the importance of SEO evolving with AI advancements, emphasizing Owned Asset Optimization (OAO) as a strategy.
1. Businesses should control their narrative across all digital platforms to improve the accuracy of AI tools.
2. Meet the MACH-6 model: An upgrade to a traditional marketing model.
- Contrasts with the PESO model, emphasizing the importance of building equity in owned assets.
- Integrate SEO with other channels like social media and email for a cohesive strategy.
3. AI and SEO are evolving. How your business can keep up:
- Businesses must tell accurate and updated stories across all digital platforms for more accurate AI-generated content.
- Optimize for both search engines and user experience.
00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome
01:09 Building a Positive Work Culture
02:57 The Importance of Passion in Work
02:57 Coaching and Leadership Insights
06:17 SEO and Business Integration
07:41 The Value of Owned Assets
10:03 Leveraging Multiple Channels
12:26 The Mach-6 Framework
14:24 Collaboration Across Departments
19:05 Optimizing Your Digital Assets
19:37 The Importance of Social Profiles
19:45 Revisiting Neglected Accounts
20:07 Controlling Your Search Results
20:24 Understanding the PESO Model
21:48 Owned Asset Optimization Explained
23:46 Real-Life Examples of Brand Stories
27:32 Leveraging Technology for Customer Optimization
28:59 SEO vs. Owned Asset Optimization
31:55 Connecting with Your Audience
Connect With Jonas Sickler
Linkedin
Twitter
Explore Terakeet Resources
MACH-6 Matrix
Explore business growth and success strategies with Tim Jordan on 'The Growth Gear.
Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify
Search the Simple and Smart SEO Show podcast for something you heard! It's free!
Apply to be my podcast guest! 🎙️ Don't forget to Put your pitch topic in the subject line!
AFFILIATE LINKS:
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Get Carry (formerly Ocho): the best retirement resources for entrepreneurs!
Note:
If you make a purchase using some of my links, I make a little money.
But I only ever share products, people, & offers I trust & use myself!
In this episode of the Simple and Smart SEO Show Podcast, I interview Katlyn Paskorz, the owner of KatydidPGH.
We discuss her journey from an unfulfilling career in banking to becoming a WordPress designer and SEO expert for small business owners.
Key points include Katlyn's transition to SEO, the importance of talking to customers for creating effective strategies, and leveraging tools like Google Business Profile and Google Ads for optimizing web presence.
Katlyn also shares practical tips like using Google Tag Manager with Google Analytics and creating local-customized content for better traffic conversion.
We finish by highlighting the importance of gradually implementing SEO principles into everyday business processes and making SEO accessible and straightforward for everyone.
Connect with Katlyn:
LinkedIn
Instagram
Free Website Guide
Free Meta Description Guide
0:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome
00:17 Katlyn's Pittsburgh Connection
01:27 Katlyn's Journey to Starting Her Agency
03:05 The Creative Side of SEO
04:10 Client Strategies and Packages
04:54 Importance of Customer Interaction
06:57 Leveraging Google Business Profile and Ads
14:45 Using Google Tools for SEO
17:51 Understanding Google Analytics for Small Businesses
18:18 Setting Up and Tracking Key Metrics
18:50 The Importance of Quality Traffic
20:27 Optimizing Blog Content for Conversions
22:22 Creating Conversion-Focused Content
23:42 Leveraging LinkedIn for SEO
24:51 SEO Tips for Busy Entrepreneurs
27:33 Conclusion and Resources
The Growth GearExplore business growth and success strategies with Tim Jordan on 'The Growth Gear.
Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify
Search the Simple and Smart SEO Show podcast for something you heard! It's free!
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Get Carry (formerly Ocho): the best retirement resources for entrepreneurs!
Note:
If you make a purchase using some of my links, I make a little money.
But I only ever share products, people, & offers I trust & use myself!
Today I'll share insights from my interview with Josh Peacock from SEO for Hire and my personal experiences in the SEO job search.
Key Takeaways:
1. Job Search Process
- Define what you want in a role and understand top performers' traits. This helps target positions that align with your strengths.
- Be honest on your resume and be prepared for practical tests to demonstrate your skills.
- Continuously learn and adapt. Embrace opportunities to update your skills and stay current with industry trends.
- Clearly communicate SEO's impact on business goals. Avoid jargon and focus on business outcomes.
- Leverage AI tools and focus on strategy to stay in demand as the SEO landscape evolves.
Personal Experience
- I applied for an in-house SEO job and received valuable feedback from SEO for Hire and the hiring manager.
- This helped me understand my strengths and areas for improvement.
SPECIAL OFFER FROM SEO FOR HIRE:
- Use code CRYSTAL50 for 50% off SEO for Hire's leadership playbook to enhance your management skills.
THE SEO SQUAD IS OPEN FOR A LIMITED TIME TO NEW MEMBERS!
Join my SEO Squad for Small Business Owners for $48/month.
- We meet every Wednesday at 10 a.m. EST to discuss and optimize your website.
- Access past challenge videos and audios inside the group.
Search the Simple and Smart SEO Show podcast for something you heard! It's free!
Apply to be my podcast guest! 🎙️ Don't forget to Put your pitch topic in the subject line!
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Get Carry (formerly Ocho): the best retirement resources for entrepreneurs!
Note:
If you make a purchase using some of my links, I make a little money.
But I only ever share products, people, & offers I trust & use myself!
In this episode of the Simple and Smart SEO Show, I interview Josh Peacock, CEO of SEO for Hire.
I get to ask him all sorts of questions about SEO recruitment, so you get an inside look at what the recruiting process looks like!
Want to know the expectations of different SEO jobs and how much they make? (ME TOO!)
We also talk about how the changes in technology and search may impact availability of SEO roles in the future.
SEO Recruitment Tips For Businesses:
- Map out the recruitment process for SEO roles.
- Identify the traits of top performers.
- Utilize DISC assessments (if legal in your country) to determine compatibility with existing team members.
- Develop a thorough vetting process to sniff out SEO experience bluffs.
- Avoid rushing recruitment; this results in bad hires at a high cost.
SEO Recruitment Tips For Job Searchers:
- A growth mindset is essential for success in the industry.
- There's no fixed hierarchy in SEO roles.
- Titles and responsibilities varying widely between companies.
- SEO for travel is one in-demand industry.
- Salary ranges for SEO roles is all over the place.
More Insights For SEO Job Searchers:
- A senior SEO director role is highly valued, with salaries up to 300K.
- Josh suggested that the future of SEO roles lies in strategy and growth advising, rather than technical tasks.
- Build your communication skills to talk with C-suite executives.
Connect with Josh Peacock
LinkedIn
Website
Use Code CRYSTAL50 to save 50% on SEO For Hire's SEO Leadership Playbook!
How much does it cost to hire the wrong person?
Explore business growth and success strategies with Tim Jordan on 'The Growth Gear.
Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify
Search the Simple and Smart SEO Show podcast for something you heard! It's free!
Apply to be my podcast guest! 🎙️ Don't forget to Put your pitch topic in the subject line!
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Start your Shopify Store!
Get Carry (formerly Ocho): the best retirement resources for entrepreneurs!
Note:
If you make a purchase using some of my links, I make a little money.
But I only ever share products, people, & offers I trust & use myself!
Join my FREE three-day SEO challenge for small business owners with websites.
Breaking News: Leaked Google Document
- Great articles from Michael King from iPullRank and Rand Fishkin
- Highlights from the leak:
- Google uses a "site authority index," contradicting their stance on DA
- Google uses click data (nav boost) for ranking content, despite previous denials
- Existence of a "sandbox" for new or sensitive sites
- Use of Chrome visit data for ranking purposes
- Twiddlers: Reorganize search results before presenting them
- Authors can improve content scores
- Local pages rank better due to relevance
- Small Publishers: Devalued compared to larger sites
Search The Podcast!
Inside the SEO Squad
- Weekly small group for business owners with websites
- Get real support with Google Search Console and SEO
- Importance of reviews and trust signals
- Recommended using reviews apps
- User Experience Interviews
- Keywords and Blogging
- Google Search Console Insights
- Discussed indexing issues and seasonal business trends
- Provided tips on resubmitting pages for indexing - Reading Search Engine Results Pages (SERPs)
Interviews are back in June!
Stay tuned for more insightful episodes and SEO tips!
Search the Simple and Smart SEO Show podcast for something you heard! It's free!
Apply to be my podcast guest! 🎙️ Don't forget to Put your pitch topic in the subject line!
AFFILIATE LINKS:
Start your Shopify Store!
Get Carry (formerly Ocho): the best retirement resources for entrepreneurs!
Note:
If you make a purchase using some of my links, I make a little money.
But I only ever share products, people, & offers I trust & use myself!
Today I'm sharing an overview of recent changes in search technology and what they could mean for SEO.
1. SEO Industry Updates:
- Chat GPT releasing a search engine? Not yet...
- Google's latest update with the "AI Overviews" (formerly known as "Search Generative Experience").
2. Strategies for Adapting to The "New SEO":
- Importance of engaging with customers and understanding their needs.
- Aligning SEO efforts with technical requirements of modern search engines.
4. SEO Squad and How to Join:
- Weekly meetings discussing SEO, branding, and online visibility.
- Invitation to the "Supercharge Your SEO" 3-day challenge starting June 4, 2024, with live daily support in a private Facebook group.
5. Key Takeaways:
- Google's shift from a lexical to a semantic model in search
- "Vector Space Model" analogy with crayons.
- Word embeddings, both sparse and dense.
- Reflection on the evolution of SEO from simplistic keyword strategies to complex semantic understanding.
Join the "Supercharge Your SEO" challenge to future-proof your SEO strategy.
Article Referenced by Michael King
Search the Simple and Smart SEO Show podcast for something you heard! It's free!
Apply to be my podcast guest! 🎙️ Don't forget to Put your pitch topic in the subject line!
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Note:
If you make a purchase using some of my links, I make a little money.
But I only ever share products, people, & offers I trust & use myself!
Today we are Unlocking the Power of Brand Stories with Chat GPT
In this episode of the Simple, Smart SEO Show, host Crystal Waddell (me!) shares insights from my SEO squad membership, focusing on creating compelling brand stories using Chat GPT.
In this meeting, I'm guiding the group through a step-by-step process of leveraging customer reviews to extract brand language, setting up Chat GPT to craft a cohesive brand story.
Bring your SEO efforts alive with a brand story guide, personal stories, and client stories to create a comprehensive understanding of a brand's uniqueness.
Through engaging with Chat GPT, I'll show you how to REQUEST tailored questions can enhance messaging and marketing plans.
Don't forget about my Supercharge Your SEO 3-Day Challenge!
Sign up now, it's June 3, 4, and 5.
And did I mention that it's free!?
0:00 Brand Story Podcast
00:52 Kicking Off with Chat GPT: A Brand Messaging Workshop
00:59 Gathering Customer Reviews for Brand Language
01:40 Priming Chat GPT for Brand Storytelling
01:55 Crafting the Brand Story Guide
02:41 Interactive Q&A: Understanding the Process
03:10 Analyzing Review Sentiments with Chat GPT
03:53 Translating Reviews into Brand Messaging
04:09 Personalizing the Brand Story
04:59 Finalizing the Brand Story with Chat GPT
06:45 Expanding the Brand Narrative: Personal and Client Stories
08:14 Crafting a Cohesive Client Story
10:51 Reflecting on Authority and Expertise
11:16 Wrapping Up and Next Steps
Search the Simple and Smart SEO Show podcast for something you heard! It's free!
Apply to be my podcast guest! 🎙️ Don't forget to Put your pitch topic in the subject line!
AFFILIATE LINKS:
Start your Shopify Store!
Get Carry (formerly Ocho): the best retirement resources for entrepreneurs!
Note:
If you make a purchase using some of my links, I make a little money.
But I only ever share products, people, & offers I trust & use myself!
In this solo episode of the Simple and Smart SEO show podcast, I'm debunking several common myths about SEO.
I'm talking about:
- Why SEO isn't a quick-fix for sales,
- Why SEO can't sell a bad product,
- How SEO extends beyond just website optimization,
- Why SEO requires ongoing effort,
- When SEO should be integrated with other marketing strategies, and more.
Additionally, I pose that SEO is dynamic, not guaranteed to keep you on top forever, can fit various budgets, and isn't solely a technical endeavor.
You know I love a good user-focused approach to SEO rather than just focusing on ranking higher or beating competitors.
I hope you enjoy this episode!
Interested in the SEO SQUAD? Click the link to find out more!
00:00 Introduction to the Solo SEO Myths Episode
00:29 Debunking SEO Myth #1: Quick Fix for Sales
01:23 Busting SEO Myth #2: Selling Bad Products
02:59 Clarifying SEO Myth #3: Limited to Website Optimization
03:49 Addressing SEO Myth #4: No Need for Ongoing Optimization
05:18 Exploring SEO Myth #5: Separate from Other Marketing Efforts
06:32 Unveiling SEO Myth #6: Guarantees Immediate Results
07:59 Demystifying SEO Myth #7: A Standalone Strategy
09:10 Correcting SEO Myth #8: All About Keywords
10:30 Revealing SEO Myth #9: Solely About Ranking Higher
11:39 Dispelling SEO Myth #10: Requires Complex Technical Knowledge
13:35 SEO Myth 11: Business Size and Competitiveness
14:32 SEO Myth 12: SEO is only about competition
15:21 SEO Myth 13: SEO Guarantees Top Rankings. Forever.
18:51 Myth 14: SEO Myths on Expense and Technicality
20:39 SEO Myth 15: SEO is too technical for the average business owner.
22:30 SEO Myth 16: SEO is mysterious.
24:39 SEO Myth 17: Every business needs SEO.
25:35 SEO Myth 18: Use as many keywords as possible, as often as possible.
26:49 SEO Myths 19: All Links Are Good Links
28:51 SEO Myth 20: SEO is one size fits all.
29:41 Concluding Thoughts and Invitation to the SEO Squad
Explore business growth and success strategies with Tim Jordan on 'The Growth Gear.
Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify
Search the Simple and Smart SEO Show podcast for something you heard! It's free!
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Get Carry (formerly Ocho): the best retirement resources for entrepreneurs!
Note:
If you make a purchase using some of my links, I make a little money.
But I only ever share products, people, & offers I trust & use myself!
In this episode of Follow Through Fridays, Crystal Waddell shares insights and takeaways from Kate Ahl.
I recap user experience, SEO strategies, personal touches on Pinterest, and promoting pins.
I also want to invite you to the Supercharge Your SEO three-day challenge.
Welcome to Follow Through Friday
Key Takeaways from Kate Ahl's Insights
Enhancing User Experience and SEO Strategies
Personal Touches and Promotions on Pinterest
Join the Supercharge Your SEO Challenge!
Search the Simple and Smart SEO Show podcast for something you heard! It's free!
Apply to be my podcast guest! 🎙️ Don't forget to Put your pitch topic in the subject line!
AFFILIATE LINKS:
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Get Carry (formerly Ocho): the best retirement resources for entrepreneurs!
Note:
If you make a purchase using some of my links, I make a little money.
But I only ever share products, people, & offers I trust & use myself!
Today I'm joined by Kate Ahl, the CEO of Simple Pin Media and KateAhl.com!
We talked about
- leveraging Pinterest for business growth
- Pinterest's constant changes
- Nuances of digital marketing and
- The Importance of sharing experience over advice.
Navigating a business in the AI era?
- Kate shared that there are lots of uncertainty and challenges of running a digital business in the AI era
- She stressed the need for honesty and vulnerability in sharing learning experiences.
- Shifts in the creator economy (TikTok, AI) make it challenging to keep up.
How should businesses use Pinterest?
- Kate encourages businesses to view social media platforms as levers - pull everything to the central part of your business.
- Search intent on Pinterest is critical.
- 97 percent of searches on the platform are unbranded.
- Pinterest users are more interested in products that serve them vs brands.
- Local businesses: optimize your profiles with location details.
Promoted Pins vs. Pinterest Ads
- Promoted pins are more about awareness.
- Pinterest Ads are more about driving specific actions. Both
- A Pinterest ad lets you build an ad from scratch targeting a specific group of people and keywords.
Insights For Building a Woman-Owned Business
- Rely on data rather than just following what others say, especially in a rapidly evolving digital marketing landscape.
- Women business owners must juggle family and work differently from men.
- Share experience over advice
Connect with Kate Ahl
Simple Pin Podcast
The Empowered Agency Podcast
Explore business growth and success strategies with Tim Jordan on 'The Growth Gear.
Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify
This Is PropagandaChallenging marketers' delusions about the cultural impact of our work. A WEBBY winner!
Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify
Search the Simple and Smart SEO Show podcast for something you heard! It's free!
Apply to be my podcast guest! 🎙️ Don't forget to Put your pitch topic in the subject line!
AFFILIATE LINKS:
Start your Shopify Store!
Get Carry (formerly Ocho): the best retirement resources for entrepreneurs!
Note:
If you make a purchase using some of my links, I make a little money.
But I only ever share products, people, & offers I trust & use myself!
It's Follow Through Fridays!
I'm following up on a previous interview with Nicole Lewis!
Check out my five key takeaways for getting press attention:
- enhancing product and service photography,
- leveraging collaborations,
- updating media pages,
- connecting with writers,
- and listing timely topics.
I share a small success I experienced this week, too! I'd love to hear yours, please share them with me at hello@simpleandsmartseo.com!
00:00 Welcome to Follow Through Friday!
00:19 Celebrating SEO Success and the Power of Press
01:20 Leveraging Photography and Collaborations for Business Growth
03:43 Mastering Media Relations and Networking
06:57 Strategic Planning for Future PR and SEO Efforts
Search the Simple and Smart SEO Show podcast for something you heard! It's free!
Apply to be my podcast guest! 🎙️ Don't forget to Put your pitch topic in the subject line!
AFFILIATE LINKS:
Start your Shopify Store!
Get Carry (formerly Ocho): the best retirement resources for entrepreneurs!
Note:
If you make a purchase using some of my links, I make a little money.
But I only ever share products, people, & offers I trust & use myself!
I spoke with Nicole Lewis, who shared advice on gaining press coverage without high costs.
Nicole emphasized the importance of networking, showcasing quality products, and strategic contacts for media exposure.
We discussed leveraging social media, providing valuable insights to publications, and timing pitches effectively.
Nicole's e-book 'Let's Get Press' offers valuable strategies for landing press features, enabling me to resonate with my audience and build writer relationships, ultimately promoting business growth.
Connect with Nicole
Website
Instagram
Let's Get Press E-Book
Pick My Brains, Etsy Trainings and Nicole's Info Hub
Nicole is the GOAT of my podcast guests.
Check out Nicole Lewis's first interview on the podcast. (Season 2, Episode 60!)
This episode ranks #1 all time for The Simple and Smart SEO Show!
Explore business growth and success strategies with Tim Jordan on 'The Growth Gear.
Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify
This Is PropagandaChallenging marketers' delusions about the cultural impact of our work. A WEBBY winner!
Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify
Search the Simple and Smart SEO Show podcast for something you heard! It's free!
Apply to be my podcast guest! 🎙️ Don't forget to Put your pitch topic in the subject line!
AFFILIATE LINKS:
Start your Shopify Store!
Get Carry (formerly Ocho): the best retirement resources for entrepreneurs!
Note:
If you make a purchase using some of my links, I make a little money.
But I only ever share products, people, & offers I trust & use myself!
Join me as I brainstorm potential podcast ideas and narrow down the focus to build a community for my brand.
Potential Podcast Ideas:
- Senior Night Podcast: I'll interview parents who have senior sports athletes in high school or college.
- Ordering a Senior Night Gift Guide: A private podcast guiding customers through the process of selecting the perfect senior night gift.
- Conversations on Life, Faith, and Motherhood: A conversational podcast where friends share insights on life, faith, and the various phases of motherhood.
- Family Memories Chronicle: Documenting family memories through a podcast, capturing tales of childhood and preserving them for generations to come.
- Lawn Service Business Insights: Dive into the world of lawn service businesses with a podcast featuring expert advice from a seasoned professional (my dad!)
Purpose of the Senior Athlete Parent Podcast:
- Target Audience: Parents of senior athletes, offering a platform for celebration and connection during this significant time.
- Content Focus: Sharing stories of diverse senior night experiences, and providing insights into transitioning from active sports life to a new chapter.
- Long-Term Goals: Building trust with the audience, establishing a reputation for senior night gifts, and creating a memorable brand presence for future referrals and business growth.
How can you use a podcast to grow your business?
Search the Simple and Smart SEO Show podcast for something you heard! It's free!
Apply to be my podcast guest! 🎙️ Don't forget to Put your pitch topic in the subject line!
AFFILIATE LINKS:
Start your Shopify Store!
Get Carry (formerly Ocho): the best retirement resources for entrepreneurs!
Note:
If you make a purchase using some of my links, I make a little money.
But I only ever share products, people, & offers I trust & use myself!
Meet Sarah K Heeter, a podcast expert and CEO of Podfox Media.
Sarah's on the show today to walk us through leveraging podcasts and audio effectively.
Connect with Sarah
Podfox Media
Big Brave Business Podcast
LaunchMyShow.com
Free Roadmap to Grow Your Podcast (Link coming soon!)
My apologies again for my audio - I was having mic issues and didn't realize it!
How do I get my podcast to show up on Spotify or Apple Podcasts?
- Consider use of listeners' questions as titles.
- Think about episode titles as clickbait.
- Don't try to summarize the entire podcast with a title.
What's the benefit of audio content creation?
- Audio content is intimate and creates connection like a phone call.
- We are all multitasking consumers.
- Build trust faster and demonstrate E-E-A-T.
- Build a deeper level of trust with listeners.
How to start a podcast on Spotify for a business?
- Podcasts can become a tool for gaining clients.
- Know your target audience.
- Define the podcast’s overall promise or goal.
- Define the podcaster's personal goals.
General guidelines for starting a podcast
- A podcast can focus on building relationships and community.
- Provide a way for your listeners to become a part of a community.
Types of podcasts and audio formats to try:
- Private podcasts for clients.
- Seasonal podcasting, serial podcasting, and using a short podcast series as a funnel.
- Sarah also does audio summits as an effective list builder.
Get Sarah's best tips for guesting on other podcasts in this awesome episode!
The Growth GearExplore business growth and success strategies with Tim Jordan on 'The Growth Gear.
Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify
Search the Simple and Smart SEO Show podcast for something you heard! It's free!
Apply to be my podcast guest! 🎙️ Don't forget to Put your pitch topic in the subject line!
AFFILIATE LINKS:
Start your Shopify Store!
Get Carry (formerly Ocho): the best retirement resources for entrepreneurs!
Note:
If you make a purchase using some of my links, I make a little money.
But I only ever share products, people, & offers I trust & use myself!
Crystal Waddell shares insights on changing her business model, prioritizing health, dealing with stress, and learning from Nick Rubright. She also discusses the PIE project for women's basketball, staying updated and engaged with women's basketball, and exploring data visualization ideas.
00:00 Welcome to Follow Through Fridays!
00:13 Turning Business Models Upside Down
00:23 The Hustle Habit: A Decade's Reflection
00:39 A Shift Towards Health and Well-being
01:49 The Wake-Up Call: A Personal Story
03:24 Finding Balance: Work, Health, and Stress
03:53 Learning from Nick Rubright: Linkable Assets
04:14 The Struggle with Public Relations and Organization
05:57 A Deep Dive into Women's Basketball and NIL
06:11 The PIE Project: Player Impact Estimate
10:37 Staying Updated and Engaged with Women's Basketball
12:46 Expanding the Project: Data Visualization Ideas
17:05 Concluding Thoughts and Future Plans
Search the Simple and Smart SEO Show podcast for something you heard! It's free!
Apply to be my podcast guest! 🎙️ Don't forget to Put your pitch topic in the subject line!
AFFILIATE LINKS:
Start your Shopify Store!
Get Carry (formerly Ocho): the best retirement resources for entrepreneurs!
Note:
If you make a purchase using some of my links, I make a little money.
But I only ever share products, people, & offers I trust & use myself!
Today's podcast features SEO link-building expert Nicholas Rubright, who shared insights on the importance of link building and PR strategies in SEO for business owners.
*Please excuse my sound quality, I had a mic issue!*- Crystal
Connect with Nick
Linkedin
Ranko Media
Unique SEO Insights From Nick:
- SEO professionals who figured out SEO organically approach it differently than those who learned it within large companies.
- Marketing efficiency is key.
- Nick shared strategies of crafting content that targets specific keywords and creating data maps.
Nick on PR and SEO:
- The faster indexing of news-worthy content leads to faster link indexing.
- The process of getting the story right for PR can take time and resources.
- Podcasts are the most cost-effective type of PR campaign: they don't require content creation.
Pitching and Posting As A Link Building Strategy:
- Align your pitch with the recipient's content intent.
- Make the initial outreach email short and personalized.
- Understand the recipient's monetization strategy.
- Cold emailing still works.
Data-Driven Content Attracts Journalists
- Generate backlinks with no outreach: select keywords that include statistics, data, or averages.
- Nick introduced "data maps", using the example of "top Valentine's Day gifts by state."
- Leverage the popularity of data maps and allow for both national and local pitching opportunities.
Limited budget for link building?
- Create trend reports based on deep Google trends research.
- Invest in quality content and outreach processes vs. cheap links.
- Understand the effectiveness of internal links.
- Consider combining data content and guest blogging for external links.
Final thoughts to create an SEO Strategy:
- Understand you customer's journey for better SEO.
- Speak to customers to gain insights into their search behavior.
- Creative thinking in digital marketing = great value.
- Precise formulas for SEO success does not exist.
Explore business growth and success strategies with Tim Jordan on 'The Growth Gear.
Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify
Search the Simple and Smart SEO Show podcast for something you heard! It's free!
Apply to be my podcast guest! 🎙️ Don't forget to Put your pitch topic in the subject line!
AFFILIATE LINKS:
Start your Shopify Store!
Get Carry (formerly Ocho): the best retirement resources for entrepreneurs!
Note:
If you make a purchase using some of my links, I make a little money.
But I only ever share products, people, & offers I trust & use myself!
Today I'm implementing the advice of Sara Jensen (Episode 110) optimization of websites, specifically focusing on SEO strategies and tips like:
- the importance of understanding your target audience
- and unique selling proposition and the benefits of team collaboration.
I realized I needed to streamline my personal brand website and the simpleandsmartseo.com website to improve my messaging.
Join the 2ND ROUND of Founding Members for the SEO SQUAD.
Detailed Summary:
- Crystal Waddell (ME!) hosts the simple and smart SEO show podcast and Follow Through Fridays.
- I realized the need to redefine the goals for my websites: crystalwaddell.com and simpleandsmartseo.com.
- I plan to split her brand into two websites with different goals: crystalwaddell.com for business presence as a public speaker and simpleandsmartseo.com for generating organic leads.
- I actually created business plans for the next three to five years, which include growing the podcast, improving her speaking skills, expanding the SEO squad membership, and growing the agency services.
- I shared the lead generation ideas I have: allowing podcast search, running an evergreen three-day challenge, and creating ads for agency services.
- I plan to hire virtual assistants as necessary to implement her system.
- I'm building a plan to grow my email list for the podcast.
- My target audience is local business owners and e-commerce sellers.
Make sure to check out episode 110 for more resources!
Search the Simple and Smart SEO Show podcast for FREE!
Search the Simple and Smart SEO Show podcast for something you heard! It's free!
Apply to be my podcast guest! 🎙️ Don't forget to Put your pitch topic in the subject line!
AFFILIATE LINKS:
Start your Shopify Store!
Get Carry (formerly Ocho): the best retirement resources for entrepreneurs!
Note:
If you make a purchase using some of my links, I make a little money.
But I only ever share products, people, & offers I trust & use myself!
In my conversation with Sara Jensen from Brighter Messaging, we explored so much that impacts women-owned businesses:
- the dynamics of managing a digital marketing agency,
- the evolution from solo entrepreneurship to leading a team,
- and the essential role of SEO in website development.
- the untapped "Mom" workforce and how to EmpowerMoms in Business
Connect with Sara
Website
Linkedin
0:00 Sara Jensen - Simple and Smart SEO Show Podcast Recording (2024-01-16 10_04 GMT-5)
00:16 Welcome to the Simple and Smart SEO Show Podcast
00:39 Meet Sara Jensen: The Digital Marketing Expert and Female Champion
03:23 The Evolution of Brighter Messaging: From Solopreneur to Team Success
08:55 Empowering Moms in the Creative Industry
14:29 Diving Deep into SEO and Website Strategy
20:56 Unlocking SEO Success: Simple Strategies and Missteps
21:04 The Power of Metadata in Boosting Your Site's SEO
22:55 Maximizing Your Website's Potential Post-Launch
24:30 Content Strategy: The Key to Organic Traffic and Lead Generation
25:24 Leveraging Blogs and Email Lists for Enhanced Engagement
26:26 Internal Linking: A Secret Weapon for SEO
28:18 Crafting a Winning Strategy: Target Audience and Value Proposition
33:11 The Importance of Vision in Business and Marketing
38:49 Reflections on Strategy and the Path Forward
The Growth GearExplore business growth and success strategies with Tim Jordan on 'The Growth Gear.
Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify
This Is PropagandaChallenging marketers' delusions about the cultural impact of our work. A WEBBY winner!
Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify
Search the Simple and Smart SEO Show podcast for something you heard! It's free!
Apply to be my podcast guest! 🎙️ Don't forget to Put your pitch topic in the subject line!
AFFILIATE LINKS:
Start your Shopify Store!
Get Carry (formerly Ocho): the best retirement resources for entrepreneurs!
Note:
If you make a purchase using some of my links, I make a little money.
But I only ever share products, people, & offers I trust & use myself!
Spoiler: SEO Success Is Trial and Error with Holly Homer
40:10
Combining Strategic SEO & Growth Mindset with Edwin Romero
32:53
Why Your Customers Don't Check Out with Celeste Gonzalez
39:41
From Theory to Practice: Real SEO Tips for Your Website
15:32
Blogging Isn't Dead: Advice from Trio SEO's Steven Schneider
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SEO and Brand Building w/ Riverside.fm's Erika Varangouli
36:30
Why OAO should replace SEO: The Future Of Optimization
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SEO Reimagined: Owned Asset Optimization With Jonas Sickler
34:34
Build a Successful and Easy SEO Strategy w/Katlyn Paskorz
32:17
SEO and Digital Marketing: Tips When You Don't Get the Job
8:06
How To Get Your SEO Dream Job W/ Recruiting Pro Josh Peacock
36:54
Google Said What? Google Algo Leak + SEO Squad Inside Look
15:07
More Changes In Search: 5 Top Takeaways For 2024 SEO
12:49
SEO For A Small Business: Inside My Small Group (SEO Squad)
11:52
Busting Outdated SEO Myths in 2024 with Crystal Waddell
31:23
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Leveraging SEO, Pinterest Strategies & Kate Ahl's Insights
3:55
The Truth About SEO and Pinterest Search in 2024 w/Kate Ahl
38:50
Boosting Your Small Business with Smart SEO and Press Tips
8:32
How Do I Get Press For My Small Business? With Nicole Lewis
47:22
How to Start a Podcast WIth No Money and No Audience
6:18
Why Doesn't My Podcast Show Up In Search? w/Sarah Heeter
37:23
Telling SEO Stories With Data: Crystal's Analytics Journey
17:58
Link Building SEO for Entrepreneurs w/ Nicholas Rubright
34:49
SEO from Scratch: How To Optimize A Website From The Start
12:52
Mastering SEO & Balancing Motherhood & Work w/ Sara Jensen
40:01