Before The Bestseller
This show is for book lovers and creators who want to go behind the scenes with their favorite authors to hear about how they were able to not just write a book but create a movement.
Before The Bestseller
BTB167: Stephan Spencer on YouTube Strategy, Attention, Shorts, and AI for Authors | The Art of SEO Author & Marketing Speak Podcast Host
We’re back with Stephan Spencer, a longtime leader in SEO and digital marketing. Over the past two decades, he has worked with brands like Zappos, Quiksilver, Chanel, Volvo, Sony, and Best Buy, helping them strengthen their online visibility and growth strategy. He is the bestselling author of The Art of SEO, the host of the Marketing Speak podcast, and widely respected for his ability to spot what is quietly holding businesses back.
In this episode, we zero in on YouTube and why it still matters far more than most authors think. Stephan breaks down why YouTube remains one of the most powerful discovery platforms in the world, how attention and curiosity actually work, and why strategy and quality consistently outperform posting volume. We talk about crafting hooks that stop the scroll, shaping story arcs that keep people watching, using Shorts without burning out, and why thumbnails and titles are often the most overlooked growth lever. We also explore how authors can experiment across platforms, when AI helps versus when it hurts, and how to use it transparently without eroding trust.
This episode cuts through the noise around YouTube and brings the focus back to strategy, intention, doing fewer things better, and a lot less guesswork.
Check out Stephan’s book here: https://a.co/d/ciHClX9
For those interested in connecting directly with Stephan, you can apply for a private complimentary consultation at stephanspencer.com/contact.
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