Google has officially released its AI mode for search, transforming Google's functionality to more closely resemble ChatGPT. In this episode we test some results against each other

• Google's AI mode is now official and available to free Gmail accounts
• The new feature appears as an "AI mode" option at the top of Google search
• First test: Naming bite-sized learning content (neither excelled, Google slightly better)
• Second test: Blog topics for a children's photographer (Google provided more detail)
• Third test: SEO tips for local businesses (both accurate, ChatGPT friendlier, Google more comprehensive)
• Google's integration advantage: AI mode is just one click away in regular search
• Both platforms continue to evolve and improve their capabilities

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Meredith's Husband
https://www.meredithshusband.com

We examine the world of unsolicited business emails and when they might actually be worth responding to instead of immediately deleting.

• Most "link to us" or "publish our content" emails are spam designed for SEO purposes
• Well-written, personalized emails with legitimate contact info may deserve a second look
• Some seemingly sketchy opportunities (like early Clutch.co) can evolve into valuable platforms
• Consider responding with a counter-request for reciprocal value rather than immediate rejection
• Protect yourself by not clicking suspicious links directly - copy domain names and visit separately
• Ask what they can offer you in return when someone wants to publish on your site
• Even if 99% are garbage, the occasional legitimate opportunity makes selective engagement worthwhile

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Meredith's Husband
https://www.meredithshusband.com

We explore the concept of an "SEO insider's inbox," sharing noteworthy updates from Google and discussing digital ownership strategies for content creators.

In this episode:

• Google Business Profile emails reminding owners to follow policies
• Introduction of Google's experimental AI mode
• Building content on YouTube vs your own site
• How building your presence on "rented ground" (social platforms) creates vulnerability
• Real experience with Google Business Profile suspension
• Improvements in Google's appeal process
• Prevalence of SEO spam emails offering SEO services
  
  Stay tuned for a follow-up episode where we'll document the entire Google Business Profile appeal process and timeline.
  
  
  

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Meredith's Husband
https://www.meredithshusband.com

Check out the bonus lesson we created showing exactly how to make the most of Squarespace's new SEO tool for your website.

👉 Watch > How to use the SQSP AI SEO tool
https://seiq.meredithshusband.com/c/staging/using-the-squarespace-ai-seo-tool-db9485ab-bcbc-45a1-8d41-5aa9ba6c09fc

Episode Summary
The new Squarespace AI SEO tool offers limited but potentially useful features for beginners, focusing primarily on generating metadata and image alt text. While not a comprehensive solution for serious SEO efforts, it provides a decent starting point for those with no previous optimization.

Episode Key Points

• AI-generated metadata won't improve rankings as Google doesn't use meta descriptions as ranking factors
• The image alt text generator creates reasonably accurate descriptions but sometimes they're excessively long
• Tool might help beginners catch up but won't provide competitive advantage as all Squarespace users have access
• Squarespace works well as an affordable starting point but isn't ideal for long-term business growth
• Recommended approach: use the tool to fill gaps in your SEO foundation, then customize and improve upon the suggestions
• Consider Squarespace a stepping stone toward more robust platforms like WordPress or Wix

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Meredith's Husband
https://www.meredithshusband.com

Google's recent core update completed March 27th represents a shift in how websites are ranked, potentially causing dramatic changes in traffic for sites not following best practices.

Link to the lesson mentioned during this episode:

Watch > How to use Google Search Console

In this episode, we discuss...

• Google's "Core updates" evaluate a website's general approach to SEO, not specific elements
• These larger updates happen only once or twice yearly, compared to hundreds of routine updates
• Small business owners and DIY SEO practitioners are most vulnerable to negative impacts
• Google Search Console is the only reliable tool to determine if your site has been affected
• Third-party ranking tools often get disrupted during major updates as they violate Google guidelines
• Sites creating content primarily for SEO rather than human value are most likely to be penalized
• AI-generated content is particularly vulnerable if it lacks original expertise or genuine value
• Quality content should provide original information, comprehensive coverage, and demonstrate expertise
• Content should be structured logically (like content hubs) to show comprehensive topic coverage
• Mobile optimization, trustworthiness signals, and authentic expertise are crucial ranking factors
  
  
  

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Meredith's Husband
https://www.meredithshusband.com

We explore the complexities of managing hidden pages on your website while safeguarding your SEO. Understanding the implications of unlinked and private pages is crucial for maintaining visibility and optimizing performance.

Resources mentioned:

How to "no-index" pages
https://seiq.meredithshusband.com/c/member-resources/how-to-no-index-pages-a6501739-f26b-448d-8ced-fcf47a07e376

How to "de-index pages
https://seiq.meredithshusband.com/c/member-resources/how-to-remove-pages-from-google-52de78eb-de2c-4317-9696-3e21b7ff1c71

TIMESTAMPS:
[0:39] Introduction
[1:31] Why Create Private Pages for Clients
[2:15] SEO Issues Related to Private Pages
[3:39] How Google Finds Your Unlinked Pages
[4:55] How Often Do Private Pages Get Into Google?
[6:01] Outside Platforms
[7:18] No-indexing Pages
[8:32] Best Practice Solution for Private Webpages
[9:01] The Problem Giving Passwords to Clients
[12:05] Taking a Page OUT of Google

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Meredith's Husband
https://www.meredithshusband.com

This episode explores the relationship between simply making an effort and the serendipitous successes that can occur and provides...

[5:45] 3 strategies that require minimal time for maximum impact
[6:21] Enhancing your Google Business Profile
[7:55] Optimizing calls to action with testing
[8:43] Revamping old blog posts

Have questions about SEO? Follow this link to send it to me!
https://seiq.meredithshusband.com/c/questions/

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Meredith's Husband
https://www.meredithshusband.com

The episode explores misconceptions about SEO's relevance in the face of AI advancements, particularly in light of new search technologies like ChatGPT. It emphasizes the importance of SEO in adapting to AI developments and highlights examples showcasing the co-existence of search engines and AI functionality.

[0:24] A recent encounter with another SEO practitioner
[3:01] The concept of the 'AI Search Fallacy' and misunderstandings
[3:37] Comparative analysis of search results from ChatGPT and Bing
[7:09] Predictions for SEO's evolution alongside AI
[10:04] Encouragement for adaptation rather than fear of obsolescence

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Meredith's Husband
https://www.meredithshusband.com