Explore every episode of the podcast Simple and Smart SEO: A podcast for Shopify sellers who want to expand beyond Etsy!

In this episode of The Simple and Smart SEO Show, Crystal sits down with Ana de la Cruz, SEO Lead at Chartis, to explore her journey from Univision Radio to leading SEO strategy at a global media agency. 

Ana shares how curiosity, reinvention, and kindness shaped her path — and introduces us to the emerging concept of “Vibe Coding,” where AI and human creativity meet.

Here’s what you’ll learn:

• How Ana transitioned from traditional media to SEO strategy
• Why kindness and collaboration are underrated superpowers in the agency world
• What “vibe coding” really means — and how SEOs can use it to automate and innovate
• Why AI expands opportunity instead of replacing humans

⏱️ Timestamps:

0:00 – Welcome & Guest Intro
 0:31 – Ana’s journey from media to marketing
 2:00 – Landing at Publicis and Omnicom
 4:00 – What Chartis does (and why she loves it)
 5:20 – How AI opens new opportunities for SEOs
 8:35 – What is “vibe coding”?
 12:19 – Ana’s first experiments with ChatGPT and code
 18:45 – Curiosity, courage, and building new skills

📚 Resources & Mentions:

• 🎧 Podcast Hub: https://simpleandsmartseo.com/best-seo-podcast
  
  
• 💼 Connect with Ana: LinkedIn – Ana de la Cruz
  
  

🙌🏽 Listener Action Steps:

1. Reflect on one skill you could “vibe code” or automate this month.
2. Follow Ana on LinkedIn to keep learning about AI + SEO.
3. Subscribe to the show for weekly SEO clarity and creative inspiration!

👩🏽‍💻 About Me:
Hi, I’m Crystal Waddell — SEO educator, Shopify seller, and visibility strategist for creative entrepreneurs. I help you grow sustainably, show up confidently, and build a business that works for you.

📲 Connect With Me:

• Instagram → @simpleandsmartseo2
  
  
• Website → https://simpleandsmartseo.com
  
  
• Spotify → Listen on Spotify
  
  
• Apple Podcasts → Listen on Apple

Text me your questions or comments!

Does SEO feel confusing, overwhelming, or just plain impossible to figure out? You’re not alone. That’s why I created the AI SEO Foundations course, powered by Crystal GPT: your personal AI SEO coach designed for busy, creative business owners like you.

Ditch the overwhelm and discover what SEO can do for your business! Head to SEOin7days.com (with the number 7!) and get started today—let’s make your brand easy to find and impossible to ignore.

Support the show

Want to follow up on what you've heard? Search the podcast!

AFFILIATE LINKS:
Start your Shopify Store!
Get SurferSEO!

Metricool (to be everywhere online, you NEED a social media scheduler!)

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 Part 2 of this engaging conversation with content marketing expert Andy Crestodina, we dive deeper into the evolving world of SEO, AI's growing role in content creation, and the power of collaboration. 

Andy shares insights on balancing human judgment with AI tools like Surfer SEO, creating successful local events, and leveraging original research to differentiate your brand. 

Whether you're a solo marketer, business owner, or content strategist, this episode is packed with actionable wisdom and fresh perspectives.

🧠 Key Takeaways:

• SEO as a Strategy, Not a Rulebook: SEO Tools offer suggestions, but human content strategy still rules.
• Original Research Wins: Brands should publish new, unique data yearly to stand out and build authority.
• AI in Moderation: Over-reliance on AI for full article generation often leads to lower performance; balance is key.
• Full Funnel Focus: SEO brings traffic, but converting that traffic requires UX, strategy, and storytelling.

🔥 Episode Highlights:

• "SEO is like a sailboat—AI and tools are the wind, but you decide where to go." – Andy Crestodina

🎯 Listener Action Items:

1. Incorporate Original Research: Publish one unique study or stat annually to elevate your brand authority.
2. Use AI as a Collaborator, Not a Crutch: Let SEO tools inform—not dictate—your strategy.
3. Host Micro-Events or Meetups: Start small, specific, and curated events to build your professional community.
4. Audit Your Content for Novelty: Avoid duplicating mainstream ideas; create content that adds something new.
5. Focus on UX & Funnel Completion: Don't just optimize for clicks—optimize for conversion and memorability.

Connect With Andy:

Linkedin

Orbit Media Blog

Text me your questions or comments!

Does SEO feel confusing, overwhelming, or just plain impossible to figure out? You’re not alone. That’s why I created the AI SEO Foundations course, powered by Crystal GPT: your personal AI SEO coach designed for busy, creative business owners like you.

Ditch the overwhelm and discover what SEO can do for your business! Head to SEOin7days.com (with the number 7!) and get started today—let’s make your brand easy to find and impossible to ignore.

Support the show

Want to follow up on what you've heard? Search the podcast!

AFFILIATE LINKS:
Start your Shopify Store!
Get SurferSEO!

Metricool (to be everywhere online, you NEED a social media scheduler!)

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, Crystal Waddell (me!) sits down with Andy Crestodina, co-founder of Orbit Media, to explore SEO, AI, and content marketing. 

Andy shares his insights on how search behavior is shifting, the importance of training AI to recognize and recommend your brand.

🔑 Key Takeaways:

• AI Search vs. Traditional Search: Traditional search finds options, while AI delivers recommendations—understanding this is key to visibility and conversions.
• Prompt Reverse Engineering: Tailor your content to include job titles, outcomes, and proof points to train AI systems like ChatGPT to recommend your brand.
• The Right Use of Video: Avoid using YouTube on money pages; instead, use native or pro players to reduce distractions and increase conversions.
• Influencer Collaboration: Use content creation as a networking tool—quotes, features, and joint content can build relationships and grow visibility.

🎯 Listener Action Items:

1. Audit Your Content for AI Readiness: Check if your service or product pages include context-rich keywords like job titles, outcomes, and proof points.
2. Compare Yourself in ChatGPT: Ask GPT how your brand stacks up against competitors and use the gaps it reveals to refine your messaging.
3. Capture UGC: Identify and reuse TikTok or Instagram content from real users of your product—this is gold for conversions.

Connect with Andy:

Linkedin

Orbit Media Blog

Text me your questions or comments!

Hey creative entrepreneur—does SEO feel confusing, overwhelming, or just plain impossible to figure out? You’re not alone. That’s why I created the AI SEO Foundations course, powered by CrystalGPT: your personal AI SEO coach designed for busy, creative business owners like you.

Crystal GPT walks you through what matters most for your website. Head to SEOin7days.com (with a 7!) and get started today—let’s make your brand easy to find and impossible to ignore.

Does SEO feel confusing, overwhelming, or just plain impossible to figure out? You’re not alone. That’s why I created the AI SEO Foundations course, powered by Crystal GPT: your personal AI SEO coach designed for busy, creative business owners like you.

Ditch the overwhelm and discover what SEO can do for your business! Head to SEOin7days.com (with the number 7!) and get started today—let’s make your brand easy to find and impossible to ignore.

Support the show

Want to follow up on what you've heard? Search the podcast!

AFFILIATE LINKS:
Start your Shopify Store!
Get SurferSEO!

Metricool (to be everywhere online, you NEED a social media scheduler!)

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, Crystal Waddell (me!) sits down with Jamie Trull for part 2 of our interview to dive deep into the concept of Hidden Profit. 

Jamie shares her journey of shifting focus from revenue to freedom, explaining how small optimizations can lead to big financial wins. 

They discuss the importance of aligning business goals with life priorities, overcoming perfectionism, and how data-driven decisions can create sustainable growth—without the hustle. 

If you're a business owner looking to work smarter, not harder, this episode is for you.

Key Takeaways:

• Hidden Profit Exists: Your business likely has untapped financial potential—Jamie explains how to find and use it.
• Optimize for Life, Not Just Revenue: Align your business with your personal goals and desired lifestyle.
• Small Tweaks, Big Impact: A few 2% improvements can lead to 100%+ increases in profit.
• Use Data Like a Hack: SEO and financial data are tools to make informed decisions, not guesswork.
• Break Free from the Sunk Cost Fallacy: Letting go of what no longer serves your business is a sign of strength, not failure.
• Iterate and Adapt: Don’t wait for perfection—launch, learn, and improve.

Memorable Quotes from Jamie:

• “What life do I want to create? That’s the bigger thing that has driven a lot of the decisions now.”
• “You can tweak things by 2% and see over 100% increase in profit—that’s the power of math.”
• “The only mistake is not using your data to refine the vision.”

Listener Action Items:

1. Pre-Order Hidden Profit – Get over $300 in bonuses, including a companion guide and access to a live business planning event.
2. Join Jamie’s Facebook Group – Connect with other women entrepreneurs in the Financial Literacy for Women Business Owners Facebook group.
3. Watch Jamie on YouTube – Dive into free resources on tax tips, S-Corp elections, hiring your kids, and more.
4. Audit Your Business Equation – Review your own revenue and cost structures—what can

Text me your questions or comments!

Does SEO feel confusing, overwhelming, or just plain impossible to figure out? You’re not alone. That’s why I created the AI SEO Foundations course, powered by Crystal GPT: your personal AI SEO coach designed for busy, creative business owners like you.

Ditch the overwhelm and discover what SEO can do for your business! Head to SEOin7days.com (with the number 7!) and get started today—let’s make your brand easy to find and impossible to ignore.

Support the show

Want to follow up on what you've heard? Search the podcast!

AFFILIATE LINKS:
Start your Shopify Store!
Get SurferSEO!

Metricool (to be everywhere online, you NEED a social media scheduler!)

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 welcome financial educator and profit strategist Jamie Trull. 

We talk about the transformative power of understanding business finances, pricing strategies, and how SEO can drive real results. 

From doubling prices overnight to lowering ad spend through smarter targeting, Jamie shares tangible strategies and inspirational insights.

Plus, a sneak peek into her brand new book, "Hidden Profit" designed to empower small business owners.

🔑 Key Takeaways:

• Pricing Can Be a Game Changer: Doubling your prices can lead to increased profit with fewer sales—and less burnout.
• Your Labor Counts: Entrepreneurs often forget to factor in their own time and effort when pricing products.
• The SEO Advantage: SEO isn’t just for visibility—it drives qualified traffic, reduces ad costs, and improves conversions.
• Digital Footprint Matters: A strong online presence across platforms improves trust with both users and AI search engines.
• Finances Are Foundational: Whether you're earning your first dollar or scaling toward 7 figures, understanding profit levers is essential.

💬 Memorable Quotes:

"It is possible to make more by doing less." – Jamie Trull

"SEO helped us lower ad costs and increase conversions by bringing in the right people." – Jamie Trull

"Money may not buy happiness, but it can buy opportunity." – Jamie Trull

✅ Listener Action Items:

• Evaluate Your Pricing: Are you undervaluing your products or services? Consider testing a price increase.
• Audit Your Time: Compare your revenue per product or service to the time it takes you to deliver it.
• Invest in SEO: Leverage blogs, images, and videos to build a cohesive and authoritative digital presence.

Text me your questions or comments!

Hey creative entrepreneur—does SEO feel confusing, overwhelming, or just plain impossible to figure out? You’re not alone. That’s why I created the AI SEO Foundations course, powered by CrystalGPT: your personal AI SEO coach designed for busy, creative business owners like you.

Crystal GPT walks you through what matters most for your website. Head to SEOin7days.com (with a 7!) and get started today—let’s make your brand easy to find and impossible to ignore.

Does SEO feel confusing, overwhelming, or just plain impossible to figure out? You’re not alone. That’s why I created the AI SEO Foundations course, powered by Crystal GPT: your personal AI SEO coach designed for busy, creative business owners like you.

Ditch the overwhelm and discover what SEO can do for your business! Head to SEOin7days.com (with the number 7!) and get started today—let’s make your brand easy to find and impossible to ignore.

Support the show

Want to follow up on what you've heard? Search the podcast!

AFFILIATE LINKS:
Start your Shopify Store!
Get SurferSEO!

Metricool (to be everywhere online, you NEED a social media scheduler!)

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 powerful continuation of the conversation with Heather Physioc, we explore how AI is reshaping the SEO landscape and why human-centered strategy still matters. 

Heather shares her framework for applying "Jobs to Be Done" thinking in SEO, especially for small businesses and creators. 

From empathy maps to AI content sourcing, this episode is a must-listen for anyone navigating modern discoverability. 

We also dive into how platforms like ChatGPT, Gemini, and Perplexity are sourcing content—and what it means for brands big and small.

🔑 Key Takeaways:

• Jobs to Be Done Is the SEO Framework You’re Missing: Learn how understanding your audience's "job" is the key to creating meaningful content.
• AI Is Changing the Web’s Economy: Heather argues that platforms like Google and ChatGPT are “stealing content” without offering equivalent value back.
• Empathy Mapping for Better Content: Mapping customer emotions, actions, and pain points can guide your SEO strategy more effectively than keywords alone.
• AI Search Results Are Not Created Equal: Different LLMs (ChatGPT, Gemini, Perplexity) source and synthesize information very differently.
• Discoverability Is the New SEO: Heather introduces a broader lens for search—beyond rankings and into audience engagement and real-world results.

💬 Memorable Quotes:

• “Discoverability all day, every day. It is encompassing of all of those things.”
• “AI can synthesize information, but it can’t synthesize a room full of humans creatively brainstorming.”
• “Clicks and eyeballs might not be the transaction of the future.”

🎯 Listener Action Items:

1. Map the Jobs to Be Done: Think beyond demographics—what problem is your customer trying to solve?
2. Create an Empathy Map: Define what your audience is thinking, feeling, and searching for.
3. Diversify Your AI Testing: Try different platforms (ChatGPT, Gemini, Perplexity) to see how they interpret your niche.

Text me your questions or comments!

Does SEO feel confusing, overwhelming, or just plain impossible to figure out? You’re not alone. That’s why I created the AI SEO Foundations course, powered by Crystal GPT: your personal AI SEO coach designed for busy, creative business owners like you.

Ditch the overwhelm and discover what SEO can do for your business! Head to SEOin7days.com (with the number 7!) and get started today—let’s make your brand easy to find and impossible to ignore.

Support the show

Want to follow up on what you've heard? Search the podcast!

AFFILIATE LINKS:
Start your Shopify Store!
Get SurferSEO!

Metricool (to be everywhere online, you NEED a social media scheduler!)

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, host Crystal Waddell welcomes Heather Physioc, Chief Discoverability Officer at VML, for a deep dive into the evolving world of search and digital strategy. 

Heather shares her insights on why Google isn't the only search engine that matters, how AI is reshaping the search journey, and why content needs to serve users at every stage—from discovery to post-purchase. 

From structured data to customer retention via social media, this episode is packed with practical takeaways for marketers, SEOs, and business owners.

Key Takeaways:

• SEO Isn’t Just About Google Anymore: Platforms like TikTok, Pinterest, Reddit, and in-platform AI search tools are becoming vital in the discoverability ecosystem.
• AI Should Enhance, Not Replace Creativity: Use AI to eliminate repetitive tasks and streamline workflows—not to substitute authentic human communication.
• Brand Experience Matters Across the Entire Journey: From awareness to post-purchase content, every touchpoint contributes to discoverability and trust.
• Structured Data Is Critical for E-commerce SEO: Schema and well-organized product feeds prepare brands for AI-powered commerce search.
• Jobs to Be Done Framework is More Relevant Than Ever: SEO should be rooted in solving real user problems, especially in the age of contextual, compound queries.

Episode Highlights:

• "Google is not the only platform out there where people are engaging in search activities." – Heather Physioc
• "Jobs to be done isn't just a theory—it's a way to make your brand truly useful across all channels."

Listener Action Items:

1. Reevaluate Your SEO Strategy Beyond Google: Identify where your audience is searching and tailor your content accordingly.
2. Use AI Thoughtfully: Let AI handle grunt work so you can focus on creativity and strategy.
3. Audit Your Customer Journey Touchpoints: Create or improve content that supports awareness, comparison, and retention.
4. Implement Structured Data Markup: Prioritize schema to support AI discoverability in commerce platforms.
5. Map Jobs to Be Done: Understand the real problems your customers are solving—and how your brand fits in.

Text me your questions or comments!

Does SEO feel confusing, overwhelming, or just plain impossible to figure out? You’re not alone. That’s why I created the AI SEO Foundations course, powered by Crystal GPT: your personal AI SEO coach designed for busy, creative business owners like you.

Ditch the overwhelm and discover what SEO can do for your business! Head to SEOin7days.com (with the number 7!) and get started today—let’s make your brand easy to find and impossible to ignore.

Support the show

Want to follow up on what you've heard? Search the podcast!

AFFILIATE LINKS:
Start your Shopify Store!
Get SurferSEO!

Metricool (to be everywhere online, you NEED a social media scheduler!)

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!

Ross Simmonds breaks down how AI overviews and LLMs are changing search—and what small businesses can do to keep winning. 

We dig into why brand and owned channels matter more than ever, how to diversify beyond Google, which third-party domains LLMs love to cite, and a simple focus formula for content distribution. 

Key Takeaways

• The SERP is shifting to answers and transactions; fewer clicks to your site means brand + owned channels are mission-critical. 
• Now is the time to publish unique, story-driven content that LLMs can cite later. Create assets your “future you” will be grateful for. 
• Diversify discovery: show up where buyers research (TikTok, Pinterest, Instagram, Etsy), not just on Google. 
• Search behavior has shifted—people use Instagram/YouTube/TikTok for ideas and how-tos; optimize for those journeys. 
• To influence LLM answers, seed multiple authoritative domains (LinkedIn, Reddit, Medium, Quora) with your message. 
• “Be excellent on one channel” first; syndicate elsewhere even if it’s not perfect—then expand. 
• Optimize your life too: sleep and calendars drive better marketing than nonstop grind. 

Listener Action Items

1. Pick your “home” channel and get excellent at it for 90 days; syndicate the same posts to 2 other platforms with light edits. 
2. Publish 3–5 unique, story-rich assets this month that your future self wants LLMs to cite. 
3. Seed third-party domains (LinkedIn article, Reddit thread, Medium post, Quora answer) with your core message to boost LLM citation odds. 
4. Audit discovery: can buyers find you on Pinterest/Instagram/TikTok/Etsy for your “money” searches? If not, claim and optimize profiles. 
5. Protect your energy: schedule sleep, workouts, and weekly calendar reviews before adding new marketing experiments. 

Connect With Ross:

• Linkedin
• Get Ross’s book: Create Once, Distribute Forever 

Text me your questions or comments!

Does SEO feel confusing, overwhelming, or just plain impossible to figure out? You’re not alone. That’s why I created the AI SEO Foundations course, powered by Crystal GPT: your personal AI SEO coach designed for busy, creative business owners like you.

Ditch the overwhelm and discover what SEO can do for your business! Head to SEOin7days.com (with the number 7!) and get started today—let’s make your brand easy to find and impossible to ignore.

Support the show

Want to follow up on what you've heard? Search the podcast!

AFFILIATE LINKS:
Start your Shopify Store!
Get SurferSEO!

Metricool (to be everywhere online, you NEED a social media scheduler!)

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, host Crystal Waddell sits down with Ross Simmonds — founder of Foundation Marketing and distribution.ai, keynote speaker at Brighton SEO, and passionate content strategist. 

Ross shares how he started out online running a fantasy football blog and now advises global brands. 

His message: most creators need to stop obsessing over new content and start amplifying what they’ve already made. 

Learn his “garden analogy” for content promotion, the Four Es framework for creating engaging posts, and how to balance content marketing with SEO. 

Whether you’re an entrepreneur, marketer, SEO or creator, this episode will shift your mindset from constant creation to strategic distribution.

Key Takeaways:

• Why most brands underinvest in content distribution — and how to fix it.
• The “garden analogy” for nurturing content long after it’s created.
• How to overcome the fear of over-promoting your content.
• The Four Es framework for engaging, educational, entertaining, and empowering content.
• Why SEO lives under the broader umbrella of content marketing.
• How to treat different content types like investment asset classes.

Episode Highlights:

• "If you’ve given up your time to create something, that thing is now an asset — and assets deserve distribution." – Ross Simmonds
• "I’ve never seen someone share too much good content." – Ross Simmonds

Listener Action Items:

• Audit your existing content and identify pieces worth re-promoting.
• Shift your time ratio from 90% creation / 10% promotion to a healthier balance.
• Apply the Four Es to your content strategy this month.
• Experiment with DM-based calls-to-action instead of “link in bio” prompts.

Connect With Ross:

Linkedin

Buy His Book: Create Once. Distribute Forever.

Text me your questions or comments!

Does SEO feel confusing, overwhelming, or just plain impossible to figure out? You’re not alone. That’s why I created the AI SEO Foundations course, powered by Crystal GPT: your personal AI SEO coach designed for busy, creative business owners like you.

Ditch the overwhelm and discover what SEO can do for your business! Head to SEOin7days.com (with the number 7!) and get started today—let’s make your brand easy to find and impossible to ignore.

Support the show

Want to follow up on what you've heard? Search the podcast!

AFFILIATE LINKS:
Start your Shopify Store!
Get SurferSEO!

Metricool (to be everywhere online, you NEED a social media scheduler!)

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 final installment of the Shopify Series: From Strategy to Action, Crystal Waddell takes you inside one of her favorite tools—Surfer SEO—and shows you exactly how to use it to optimize your Shopify store pages for maximum visibility. 

From product descriptions to collection pages, homepage copy, and blog posts, you’ll learn step-by-step strategies to integrate Surfer SEO into your workflow. 

Crystal also shares pro tips, keyword research insights, and how to make your content Google-loved without guessing what works.

Key Takeaways:

• Surfer SEO works beyond blog posts — it’s powerful for product pages, collection pages, and even your homepage or about page.
• Collection pages can benefit from short but keyword-rich descriptions — as little as 50–100 words can make a difference.
• Surfer’s real-time content score acts like a coach, showing you exactly how to optimize as you write.
• Keyword research is essential before diving into content optimization.
• Small businesses can compete with big brands using Surfer SEO’s structured guidance.

Episode Highlights:

• "Surfer SEO is like having a coach in your corner while you write."
• "Even a short paragraph using three to four suggested keywords can boost your visibility."
• "Visibility is a skill—keep growing."

Listener Action Items:

1. Identify a Shopify page you want to optimize—product, collection, homepage, or about page.
2. Use Surfer SEO’s content editor to enter your target keyword and review competitor insights.
3. Follow the keyword suggestions and structure prompts to raise your content score.
4. Download Crystal’s $7  Surfer SEO Workbook for Shopify for templates, prompts, and tracking tools!
5. Consider joining the SEO Squad for ongoing weekly support.

This episode includes my affiliate link for Surfer, so if you sign up using it, I ma

Text me your questions or comments!

Does SEO feel confusing, overwhelming, or just plain impossible to figure out? You’re not alone. That’s why I created the AI SEO Foundations course, powered by Crystal GPT: your personal AI SEO coach designed for busy, creative business owners like you.

Ditch the overwhelm and discover what SEO can do for your business! Head to SEOin7days.com (with the number 7!) and get started today—let’s make your brand easy to find and impossible to ignore.

Support the show

Want to follow up on what you've heard? Search the podcast!

AFFILIATE LINKS:
Start your Shopify Store!
Get SurferSEO!

Metricool (to be everywhere online, you NEED a social media scheduler!)

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!

(Shopify From Strategy to Action Series, Episode 4!)

In this episode, we're getting real about Shopify page templates — and why they might be quietly holding your SEO back. 😬

From homepage headers to collection and product page tweaks, Crystal shares how to update your templates to help your content rank and convert.

👀 If you’ve ever wondered:

 “Do I really need to mess with my templates?”
 The short answer is: YES — but it’s simpler than you think.

✨ What You’ll Learn:

• Why templates are the foundation of Shopify SEO success
• How to add keyword-rich headers and content to your homepage
• Simple, fast updates to boost your collection and product pages
• How to apply the “Jobs to Be Done” framework for search intent
• A peek inside the $7 Shopify SEO Templates Toolkit

🧰 Resources & Mentions:

• Shopify SEO Templates Toolkit → https://simpleandsmartseo.com/templates (coming shortly!)
• $7 SEO Starter Course → https://SEOin7Steps.com (limited time only)
• Sustainable Visibility System → coming soon!
• Podcast Hub → https://SimpleandSmartSEO.com/best-seo-podcast

🎯 Your Action Step:
Update one section of your homepage using a keyword-rich H1 or intro paragraph, and tag @simpleandsmartseo2 so Crystal can cheer you on! 🧡

📌 Connect with Crystal:

• Website → https://simpleandsmartseo.com/
• Instagram → https://instagram.com/simpleandsmartseo2
• Podcast on Spotify → https://open.spotify.com/show/5q7TnaTJAgXty6K8bHY62j
• Podcast on Apple → https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-simple-and-smart-seo-show/id1623005671

Would you like a version adapted for blog or email as well?

Text me your questions or comments!

Does SEO feel confusing, overwhelming, or just plain impossible to figure out? You’re not alone. That’s why I created the AI SEO Foundations course, powered by Crystal GPT: your personal AI SEO coach designed for busy, creative business owners like you.

Ditch the overwhelm and discover what SEO can do for your business! Head to SEOin7days.com (with the number 7!) and get started today—let’s make your brand easy to find and impossible to ignore.

Support the show

Want to follow up on what you've heard? Search the podcast!

AFFILIATE LINKS:
Start your Shopify Store!
Get SurferSEO!

Metricool (to be everywhere online, you NEED a social media scheduler!)

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!

Want more organic traffic and faster conversions on your Shopify store? 

In this episode of the Simple and Smart SEO Show, Crystal Waddell breaks down the visual side of SEO with a focus on image optimization.

From renaming image files and writing strategic alt text to compressing files and picking the best formats, Crystal walks you through four essential steps to get your images SEO-ready. 

You’ll also learn how to use ChatGPT to quickly generate descriptive alt text and how to leverage Pinterest to amplify your visual content strategy.

✅ What You’ll Learn:

• Why image SEO drives traffic from Google and Pinterest
• How to rename image files using SEO-friendly keywords
• The dos and don'ts of writing alt text (and how ChatGPT helps)
• Image compression tools that boost load speed (TinyPNG & WebP)
• Best image formats for product photos, logos, and backgrounds
• Bonus: Pinterest optimization tips and helpful Shopify apps

🎯 Action Steps:

• Rename one product image with keywords before uploading
• Use alt text that’s clear, accurate, and avoids keyword stuffing
• Compress images under 300KB (or even 100KB with WebP)
• Download Crystal’s $7 Image SEO Checklist for a full walkthrough
• Try the free Pinterest Save Button Shopify app

🛠️ Helpful Links:

• Image SEO Checklist: simpleandsmartseo.com/images
• Free Alt Text Generator
• TinyPNG: https://tinypng.com

📌 Next Episode Tease:
 Coming up in Episode 4: Templates that elevate your Shopify SEO—homepage, product pages, and collection pages.

📲 Let’s Connect:
 Update one image today and tag @simpleandsmartseo2. 

You’ve got this!

Text me your questions or comments!

Does SEO feel confusing, overwhelming, or just plain impossible to figure out? You’re not alone. That’s why I created the AI SEO Foundations course, powered by Crystal GPT: your personal AI SEO coach designed for busy, creative business owners like you.

Ditch the overwhelm and discover what SEO can do for your business! Head to SEOin7days.com (with the number 7!) and get started today—let’s make your brand easy to find and impossible to ignore.

Support the show

Want to follow up on what you've heard? Search the podcast!

AFFILIATE LINKS:
Start your Shopify Store!
Get SurferSEO!

Metricool (to be everywhere online, you NEED a social media scheduler!)

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, Crystal breaks down the must-have SEO tech stack for Shopify sellers who want to show up in search results, build authority, and grow sustainably without feeling overwhelmed.

You’ll learn about the core apps that make SEO easier, free tools to track and audit your progress, and optional power tools if you’re ready to take things to the next level.

Whether you’re just getting started with Shopify or looking to improve your existing SEO strategy, this episode will help you focus on the right tools so you can stop guessing and start growing.

Key Takeaways

• You don’t need 50 tools — just a few key apps and resources to support your SEO efforts.
• Start with free tools like Google Search Console and Microsoft Clarity to understand your current performance.
• Add must-have apps that create fresh content and improve site speed, like a review app and TinyPNG.
• Explore advanced tools like Ahrefs, Ubersuggest, and Surfer SEO as you grow.

Resources & Mentions

• Shopify SEO Tech Stack Checklist (only $7!)
• 7-Step SEO Starter Course
• Google Search Console
• Microsoft Clarity
• InstaIndex
• TinyPNG
• Surfer SEO (My Affiliate Link!)

Action Steps for Listeners

1. Install at least one new SEO tool today (Google Search Console is a great place to start).
2. Download the Shopify SEO Tech Stack Checklist to make setup easy and track what you’ve implemented.
3. Tag Crystal on Instagram @simpleandsmartseo2 to share your progress.

Connect with Crystal

• Website: simpleandsmartseo.com
• Instagram: @simpleandsmartseo2
• Podcast on Apple: Listen here
• Podcast on Spotify: Listen here

Next Episode:
Don’t miss the next episode, where we’ll talk about optimizing your images so they bring in traffic — not just likes!

Text me your questions or comments!

Does SEO feel confusing, overwhelming, or just plain impossible to figure out? You’re not alone. That’s why I created the AI SEO Foundations course, powered by Crystal GPT: your personal AI SEO coach designed for busy, creative business owners like you.

Ditch the overwhelm and discover what SEO can do for your business! Head to SEOin7days.com (with the number 7!) and get started today—let’s make your brand easy to find and impossible to ignore.

Support the show

Want to follow up on what you've heard? Search the podcast!

AFFILIATE LINKS:
Start your Shopify Store!
Get SurferSEO!

Metricool (to be everywhere online, you NEED a social media scheduler!)

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 kickoff episode of my Shopify SEO from Strategy to Action summer series, we start with the most important piece: your mindset.

If you've ever thought:

• "SEO is just for techies!"
• "Shopify isn't good for SEO."
• "I don't even know where to start."

This episode is for you!

🎯 What you'll learn:

• Why your mindset is the #1 SEO success factor
• The top myths keeping shop owners stuck (and how to bust them)
• A fun visibility readiness quiz to check if you're truly ready to be found

💡 Key takeaway:
SEO is like your most loyal employee — working for you even when you're on vacation.

👉 Grab the $7 SEO Mindset for Shop Owners Guide:
https://simpleandsmartseo.com/mindset

🎧 Listen on your favorite app:

• Apple Podcasts
• Spotify

🙌 Ready to take action?
1️⃣ Download the mindset guide.
2️⃣ Take the quiz and shift your beliefs.
3️⃣ DM me your biggest SEO mindset block on Instagram → @simpleandsmartseo2.

💬 About Crystal:
I'm an SEO educator, Shopify seller, and visibility strategist helping creative entrepreneurs grow sustainably and show up confidently — without resenting the work!

Learn about my SEO Squad!

Text me your questions or comments!

Does SEO feel confusing, overwhelming, or just plain impossible to figure out? You’re not alone. That’s why I created the AI SEO Foundations course, powered by Crystal GPT: your personal AI SEO coach designed for busy, creative business owners like you.

Ditch the overwhelm and discover what SEO can do for your business! Head to SEOin7days.com (with the number 7!) and get started today—let’s make your brand easy to find and impossible to ignore.

Support the show

Want to follow up on what you've heard? Search the podcast!

AFFILIATE LINKS:
Start your Shopify Store!
Get SurferSEO!

Metricool (to be everywhere online, you NEED a social media scheduler!)

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 PPC Pro Austin Becker and me in this episode of The Simple and Smart SEO Show.

We’re diving into strategic blogging, PPC attribution, and the underrated power of Pinterest — a must-listen for creative entrepreneurs, Shopify sellers, and busy business owners who want to grow without burnout.

Here’s what you’ll learn:

• How to use Google's "People Also Ask" to create blog content that drives traffic
• When and how Pinterest ads actually work for e-commerce
• Why attribution is murky — and how to trust your gut when running ads

 0:00 – Intro
 0:02 – How to use Google to find blog ideas that convert
 1:10 – Linking blog posts back to products and monetizing content
 2:00 – Pinterest: A goldmine for visual and evergreen traffic
 3:20 – Are Pinterest ads worth it? Austin shares results
 4:45 – Organic vs paid Pinterest: What drives more ROI
 6:00 – Planning and buyer intent on Pinterest
 7:00 – How to measure PPC success (or not)
 8:00 – Realistic evaluation windows for ad performance
 9:00 – Common PPC/SEO mistakes to avoid
 10:15 – Who’s a good fit for Becker Marketing’s services
 11:30 – Final thoughts

📚 Resources & Mentions:

• 🛠️ My $27 SEO Starter Course → https://SEOin7Days.com
• 🎙️ Podcast on Apple → Apple Podcasts
• 🎧 Podcast on Spotify → Spotify
• 💬 Austin Becker Marketing → https://abeckermarketing.com
• 📺 YouTube Channel → PPC for Everyone

🙌🏽 Listener Action Steps:

1. Subscribe for weekly SEO strategy & visibility tips!
2. Comment below with your biggest takeaway from Austin's Pinterest or blogging strategy.
3. Start Your SEO journey with my 7 step starter course at SEOin7Days.com

👩🏽‍💻 About Me:
Hi, I’m Crystal Waddell — SEO educator, Shopify seller, and visibility strategist for creative entrepreneurs. On this channel and podcast, I share practical, empowering tools to help you grow sustainably, show up confidently, and build a business that works for you.

👉🏽 Let's Work 1-1!

📲 Connect With Me:

• Instagram →

Text me your questions or comments!

Does SEO feel confusing, overwhelming, or just plain impossible to figure out? You’re not alone. That’s why I created the AI SEO Foundations course, powered by Crystal GPT: your personal AI SEO coach designed for busy, creative business owners like you.

Ditch the overwhelm and discover what SEO can do for your business! Head to SEOin7days.com (with the number 7!) and get started today—let’s make your brand easy to find and impossible to ignore.

Support the show

Want to follow up on what you've heard? Search the podcast!

AFFILIATE LINKS:
Start your Shopify Store!
Get SurferSEO!

Metricool (to be everywhere online, you NEED a social media scheduler!)

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, we’re diving into real-world e-commerce strategies to compete with platforms like Amazon, Walmart, and Etsy — without relying solely on Google. 

If you’re a Shopify seller or creative entrepreneur, this episode is a must-listen for understanding ad budgets, search impression share, and seasonal sales cycles that actually scale your business sustainably.

Here’s what you’ll learn:

• How to drive traffic without depending on Google (hint: email + social!)
• Why knowing your ACOS (Advertising Cost of Sale) is more useful than ROAS
• The smartest way to scale: sell more when people are already buying

⏱️ Timestamps:
 0:00 – Intro: The Google traffic trap
 1:16 – Competing with Amazon (without losing your mind or margins)
 3:20 – What is Search Impression Share & where to find it
 4:33 – Profit-first ad budgeting: ACOS vs ROAS explained
 10:31 – The truth about your prices (and why doubling them may save your business)
 13:06 – 2025+ trends: Multi-channel selling & YouTube SEO tips
 17:37 – Video SEO strategy for higher CTR
 18:31 – Collection page tips from Bonobos

📚 Resources & Mentions:

• 🛠️ $27 AI SEO Starter Course → https://SEOin7Days.com
• 🎙️ Podcast on Apple/Spotify → https://simpleandsmartseo.com/best-seo-podcast
• 💬 Guest: Learn more about Austin Becker → abeckermarketing.com

🙌 Listener Action Steps:

1. Subscribe for weekly SEO strategy & visibility tips!
2. Start your way to SEO Success for only $27, delivered on your schedule by ChatGPT → https://SEOin7Days.com

👩🏽‍💻 About Me:
 Hi, I’m Crystal Waddell — SEO educator, Shopify seller, and visibility strategist for creative entrepreneurs. On this channel and podcast, I share practical, empowering tools to help you grow sustainably, show up confidently, and build a business that works for you.

 Learn more at https://simpleandsmartseo.com

📲 Connect With Me, Crystal Waddell:

• Instagram → @simpleandsmartseo2
• Podcast Hub → https://SimpleandSmartSEO.com/best-seo-podcast
• Website → https://simpleandsmartseo.com
• E-commerce Site → https://collageandwood.com

Text me your questions or comments!

Does SEO feel confusing, overwhelming, or just plain impossible to figure out? You’re not alone. That’s why I created the AI SEO Foundations course, powered by Crystal GPT: your personal AI SEO coach designed for busy, creative business owners like you.

Ditch the overwhelm and discover what SEO can do for your business! Head to SEOin7days.com (with the number 7!) and get started today—let’s make your brand easy to find and impossible to ignore.

Support the show

Want to follow up on what you've heard? Search the podcast!

AFFILIATE LINKS:
Start your Shopify Store!
Get SurferSEO!

Metricool (to be everywhere online, you NEED a social media scheduler!)

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, Crystal Waddell sits down with e-commerce marketing expert Austin Becker (Part 1 of 3).

We talk about the evolution of Austin’s career, from selling quirky side-hustle products to founding a thriving e-commerce digital marketing agency. 

You’ll learn actionable insights on Google Shopping, product feed optimization, Amazon's advertising dominance, the power of Schema for Shopify SEO, and how AI is poised to reshape search and advertising. 

If you're an online seller or digital marketer, this episode is packed with tips and tools to upgrade your strategies for 2025 and beyond.

Key Takeaways:

• 🎯 Google Shopping success begins with strong product feeds and Merchant Center accuracy.
• 🔍 Winning in SEO means building product pages that rival Amazon—photos, videos, dimensions, reviews, and more.
• 🛍️ Schema apps can safeguard your Shopify SEO when themes change and enhance your metadata clarity.
• 🧠 AI and generative search platforms like Perplexity are beginning to offer new e-commerce ad opportunities.
• 💡 Freelancers and agencies can still thrive in PPC and e-commerce if they offer specialized value.

Episode Highlights:

• "If you're running retail, you don’t have time to learn Google feeds—so make it your job to know it."
• "Your product page has to be better than Amazon’s if you want to win that click."
• "AI-driven shopping will soon let you buy inside a chatbot. That's the future."

Listener Action Items:

• ✅ Audit your Shopify product pages: Do they match or beat Amazon’s detail and quality?
• ✅ Use tools like validator.schema.org to evaluate and improve your site’s structured data.
• ✅ Explore the Schema App for Shopify to protect and future-proof your SEO.
• ✅ Apply for early access to AI shopping platforms like Perplexity’s product feed program.
• ✅ Re-evaluate your marketing strategy yearly—Austin’s DIY summit method is a perfect starting point.

Connect with Austin:

👉🏽 Website

👉🏽 Linkedin 

Text me your questions or comments!

Does SEO feel confusing, overwhelming, or just plain impossible to figure out? You’re not alone. That’s why I created the AI SEO Foundations course, powered by Crystal GPT: your personal AI SEO coach designed for busy, creative business owners like you.

Ditch the overwhelm and discover what SEO can do for your business! Head to SEOin7days.com (with the number 7!) and get started today—let’s make your brand easy to find and impossible to ignore.

Support the show

Want to follow up on what you've heard? Search the podcast!

AFFILIATE LINKS:
Start your Shopify Store!
Get SurferSEO!

Metricool (to be everywhere online, you NEED a social media scheduler!)

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 part 3 of my interview with Andrew Ansley, we unpack the evolution of SEO from pre-2022 tactics to today's entity-driven, user-focused strategies. 

Learn why stuffing keywords is dead, how RankBrain and BERT changed the game, and why helpful, structured content (plus user metrics) is the new key to ranking. 

Andrew also demystifies topical authority, shares how to recover if your site’s in the “loser’s bracket,” and offers actionable tips for entrepreneurs and small business owners who want to win with SEO—without burnout.

Here’s what you’ll learn:

• How Google’s approach to content and ranking has changed since 2018 (and again after 2022)
• What “entity SEO” and “topical authority” mean for your website
• Why user satisfaction and mobile-first indexing matter more than ever
• How to structure content for both users and bots (headers, visuals, and more)
• What it takes to move your site from the “loser’s bracket” to the winner’s bracket

📚 Resources & Mentions:

• 🛠️ Simple and Smart SEO + AI Starter Guide → [coming soon!]
• 📦 The Sustainable Visibility System → [waitlist]

Connect with Andrew Ansley:

• 💬  AI Marketeers Skool 
• 📝  Andrew’s article on Entity SEO 
• 🎥  YouTube

🙌🏽 Listener Action Steps:

1. Subscribe for weekly SEO strategy & visibility tips!

✨ Episode Highlights (Memorable Quotes):

• “Before 2018, Google had not even a pretend understanding of content. What they had was keyword matching... Now, it’s about understanding context and entities.”
• “It’s not about getting someone to stay on your webpage. It’s about satisfying their query so they don’t go back to Google.”

👩🏽‍💻 About Me:

Hi, I’m Crystal Waddell — SEO educator, Shopify seller, and visibility strategist for creative entrepreneurs. On this channel and podcast, I share practical, empowering tools to help you grow sustainably, show up confidently, and build a business that works for you.

Learn more at https://simpleandsmartseo.com

📲 Connect With Crystal:

• Linkedin
• Instagram → @simpleandsmartseo2
• Podcast Hub → htttps://simpleandsmartseo.com/best-seo-podcast
• SEO Squad Info

Text me your questions or comments!

Does SEO feel confusing, overwhelming, or just plain impossible to figure out? You’re not alone. That’s why I created the AI SEO Foundations course, powered by Crystal GPT: your personal AI SEO coach designed for busy, creative business owners like you.

Ditch the overwhelm and discover what SEO can do for your business! Head to SEOin7days.com (with the number 7!) and get started today—let’s make your brand easy to find and impossible to ignore.

Support the show

Want to follow up on what you've heard? Search the podcast!

AFFILIATE LINKS:
Start your Shopify Store!
Get SurferSEO!

Metricool (to be everywhere online, you NEED a social media scheduler!)

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, Crystal Waddell sits down with AI and SEO expert Andrew Ansley to discuss the intersection of artificial intelligence, SEO strategies, entrepreneurship, and modern parenting. 

Here’s what you’ll learn:

• How to leverage AI tools (like ChatGPT and Claude) to organize your business and creative projects.
• The critical skills kids need for the future—and how parents and educators can support them using AI.
• Why traditional education is broken and how AI can help every child learn in a personalized way.

📚 Resources & Mentions:

• 🛠️ Crystal's SEO Starter Guide → [coming soon!]
• 📦 The Sustainable Visibility System → [coming soon]
• 🎙️ Listen on Apple Podcasts / Spotify 
• 💬 Connect with Andrew Ansley → Linkedin

🙌🏽 Listener Action Steps:

1. Subscribe to the show for weekly SEO strategy & visibility tips!
2. Try organizing one of your business or creative projects using a new AI tool (like Claude, ChatGPT, or Jasper)—see if folders, projects, or custom prompts help streamline your workflow.
3. Reflect on your own learning style or your child’s learning style. How can you use AI to make education or skill-building more personalized and engaging in your home or business?

✨ Episode Highlights & Quotes:

• “If you’re a parent and you have an inquisitive kid, learning how to get your kid to use AI to answer their questions in a safe way is going to be amazing.” — Andrew Ansley
• “We are still teaching our kids the same way we did 50 years ago. But the future is not in a box.” — Crystal Waddell

👩🏽‍💻 About Me:

Hi, I’m Crystal Waddell — SEO educator, Shopify seller, and visibility strategist for creative entrepreneurs. On this channe

Text me your questions or comments!

Hey creative entrepreneur—does SEO feel confusing, overwhelming, or just plain impossible to figure out? You’re not alone. That’s why I created the AI SEO Foundations course, powered by CrystalGPT: your personal AI SEO coach designed for busy, creative business owners like you.

Crystal GPT walks you through what matters most for your website. Head to SEOin7days.com (with a 7!) and get started today—let’s make your brand easy to find and impossible to ignore.

Does SEO feel confusing, overwhelming, or just plain impossible to figure out? You’re not alone. That’s why I created the AI SEO Foundations course, powered by Crystal GPT: your personal AI SEO coach designed for busy, creative business owners like you.

Ditch the overwhelm and discover what SEO can do for your business! Head to SEOin7days.com (with the number 7!) and get started today—let’s make your brand easy to find and impossible to ignore.

Support the show

Want to follow up on what you've heard? Search the podcast!

AFFILIATE LINKS:
Start your Shopify Store!
Get SurferSEO!

Metricool (to be everywhere online, you NEED a social media scheduler!)

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 conversation on AI-powered SEO workflows, Andrew Ansley joins The Simple and Smart SEO Show to share how smart marketers are using tools like Claude, ChatGPT, and automation platforms to save time and scale without hiring.

From building SOPs in under an hour to organizing AI projects for sharper output, Andrew reveals how today’s marketers can combine soft skills with machine intelligence to stay competitive—without burning out.

Whether you're a creative entrepreneur, solo founder, or agency owner, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help you systemize your business and let AI do the heavy lifting.

🧠 Key Takeaways:

• Claude vs. ChatGPT: Why Andrew canceled ChatGPT Pro and switched to Claude—and what you should know before choosing your AI tool.
• AI-Powered SOPs: How to create effective SEO workflows and train your AI assistant in under 30 minutes.
• Organized Output = Better Results: Why focusing on one task per project leads to cleaner, more reliable AI performance.
• Smart Automation Tools: How Andrew uses GoHighLevel and N8N to reclaim 10+ hours of work each week.
• Solo Scaling Strategy: Why the future of marketing favors technical solopreneurs—and how to hit $10M with minimal overhead.

💬 Memorable Quotes:

“You don’t need to master hard skills—you need to master how to operate the machine.” — Andrew Ansley

“Abstract prompts like ‘write an SEO strategy’ won’t work unless you define what that means.” — Andrew Ansley

✅ Listener Action Items:

• Start a separate project in your AI tool for each key business function—especially for SEO.
• Define your own templates and examples to guide your AI outputs more effectively.
• Test Claude vs. ChatGPT with the same prompt and compare the results—what works best for your workflow?
• Create or update your keyword research SOP using AI—then outsource or automate it to reclaim your time.

🎧 Listen now for no-fluff advice on using AI to simplify, scale, and sharpen your SEO systems!

 Subscribe for weekly insights at SimpleAndSmartSEO.com

Text me your questions or comments!

Does SEO feel confusing, overwhelming, or just plain impossible to figure out? You’re not alone. That’s why I created the AI SEO Foundations course, powered by Crystal GPT: your personal AI SEO coach designed for busy, creative business owners like you.

Ditch the overwhelm and discover what SEO can do for your business! Head to SEOin7days.com (with the number 7!) and get started today—let’s make your brand easy to find and impossible to ignore.

Support the show

Want to follow up on what you've heard? Search the podcast!

AFFILIATE LINKS:
Start your Shopify Store!
Get SurferSEO!

Metricool (to be everywhere online, you NEED a social media scheduler!)

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 Part 2 of our conversation about Local SEO, Darren Shaw of Whitespark returns to The Simple and Smart SEO Show to break down advanced Google Business Profile (GBP) strategies that actually move the needle. 

From the controversial truth about citation consistency to actionable tactics for leveraging Google reviews and optimizing your GBP for maximum visibility, Darren shares insider tips you won’t find in a typical SEO blog post. 

Whether you're a service provider, e-commerce seller, or local business, this episode is packed with high-impact, no-fluff advice to help you dominate local search results—ethically and effectively.

🗝️ Key Takeaways:

• Citation Consistency Debunked: It's not as critical as you think, but your core info should generally align across platforms.
• High-Impact GBP Optimization: Business name and primary category are the top levers for ranking—Darren explains why (and how to use them without risking suspension).
• The Real Deal on Reviews: Recency and consistency matter more than ever; learn how to keep that review flywheel spinning.
• Photo and Post Strategies: How regular uploads and Google Posts increase engagement signals and boost rankings.
• Virtual Locations & Google Profiles: The gray areas of using virtual offices and how to avoid Google suspensions.
• The One-Hour Local SEO Plan: Darren’s foolproof weekly plan to improve your rankings in just one focused hour.

📌 Memorable Quotes:

• "Your business name on Google is the most ridiculous yet powerful ranking factor. It’s absurd, but it works." — Darren Shaw
• "Don’t just fill out your Google Business Profile—optimize it strategically. That’s where the magic happens." — Darren Shaw

✅ Listener Action Items:

• Audit your Google Business Profile for high-impact changes: Business Name, Categories, and Service Pages.
• Start a consistent Google review acquisition plan—focus on recency!
• Schedule one Google Post per week—this is your sales pitch to new prospects.
• Engage with your local community through sponsorships and build real, high-quality backlinks.

Text me your questions or comments!

Does SEO feel confusing, overwhelming, or just plain impossible to figure out? You’re not alone. That’s why I created the AI SEO Foundations course, powered by Crystal GPT: your personal AI SEO coach designed for busy, creative business owners like you.

Ditch the overwhelm and discover what SEO can do for your business! Head to SEOin7days.com (with the number 7!) and get started today—let’s make your brand easy to find and impossible to ignore.

Support the show

Want to follow up on what you've heard? Search the podcast!

AFFILIATE LINKS:
Start your Shopify Store!
Get SurferSEO!

Metricool (to be everywhere online, you NEED a social media scheduler!)

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 value-packed episode of the Simple and Smart SEO Show, host 💁‍♀️ Crystal Waddell sits down with local SEO legend Darren Shaw of 🏢 Whitespark. 

Discover why your website is the #1 data source for your Google Business Profile, how to optimize for the local 3-pack 📍, and what SEO myths to stop believing 🚫. 

Whether you’re a home-based biz, a service provider, or an online shop, these actionable insights will help your brand show up and stand out in local search! 🔍

💡 Key Takeaways:

• 🌐 Your Website = Your GMB Database: Google pulls profile data straight from your site!
• 🧾 Citations Still Matter… but not as much as they used to 📉.
• ⭐ Reviews + Proximity = Ranking Gold in local search 📍🔝.
• 🛠️ Service Pages Are a Must: One page per service = better SEO results 💪.
• 🕒 Business Hours Impact Visibility — especially between 4–7 PM! 🕓📉🕖
• 🔑 Keyword Research Made Simple: Just ask a few people what they’d search 🤔📲.
• ⚖️ Citation Consistency ≠ Life or Death: Google’s smarter than that now 🤖😉.

💬 Memorable Quotes:

🗣️ "Your website is the database for your Google Business Profile."
 🚖 "You don’t need fancy tools—just ask five taxi drivers what they’d search."
 🟢 "Google likes to rank businesses that are currently open."

- Darren Shaw

✅ Listener Action Items:

1. 🔍 Audit Your Google Business Profile – Fill in every field, especially your services!
2. 🧩 Create Separate Service Pages – Give each service its own optimized landing page.
3. 🕰️ Adjust Business Hours – Consider extending hours to stay visible longer.
4. 📇 Check Your Citations – But skip the pricey ongoing directory services 💸.
5. 🤝 Ask Around – Real-world keyword research starts with real people!

Connect With Darren:

Whitespark.ca

Linkedin

Connect With Crystal:

SimpleandSmartSEO.com

Linkedin

Text me your questions or comments!

Does SEO feel confusing, overwhelming, or just plain impossible to figure out? You’re not alone. That’s why I created the AI SEO Foundations course, powered by Crystal GPT: your personal AI SEO coach designed for busy, creative business owners like you.

Ditch the overwhelm and discover what SEO can do for your business! Head to SEOin7days.com (with the number 7!) and get started today—let’s make your brand easy to find and impossible to ignore.

Support the show

Want to follow up on what you've heard? Search the podcast!

AFFILIATE LINKS:
Start your Shopify Store!
Get SurferSEO!

Metricool (to be everywhere online, you NEED a social media scheduler!)

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 week's episode of the Simple and Smart SEO Show, Crystal Waddell sits down with Shreya LaCock from SEO for Hire to pull back the curtain on SEO careers, personal branding, and the future of hiring in a world powered by AI! 🚀

Together, they explore the different roles inside an SEO agency 🏢, the green flags to look for when hiring SEO help ✅, and why personal branding is no longer optional if you want to thrive. 

They also dig into how AI is reshaping SEO jobs — and why adaptability is your ultimate superpower. 💪🏼

Grab your coffee ☕ or tea 🍵 and let's dive in!

Key Takeaways:

• Master your personal brand 🧠: It's the new resume! Be visible, searchable, and active online.
• Understand agency structures 🏢: Know who you're actually working with when you hire an agency.
• Communication is king 👑: Great SEOs don’t just optimize websites—they know how to talk and connect.
• AI won't steal your job (yet!) 🤖: But adapting and learning AI tools will set you apart.
• Side projects = secret weapons 🔥: Showing passion through personal projects makes candidates shine.

Episode Highlights:

💬 "There is nothing more important than mastering your personal brand." — Shreya LaCock

💬 "The way we were doing SEO six months ago is completely different than today—and it’ll change again in two months." — Shreya LaCock

💬 "If you want to build a strong company, it really starts with strong leadership." — Crystal Waddell

Listener Action Items:

🔎 Audit your personal brand online

🤖 experiment with an AI tool for SEO, and 

🗣️ strengthen your communication skills to build trust and authority.

Connect With Crystal:

✅ Follow Crystal on LinkedIn: Follow Crystal

✅ If you're an entrepreneur or side hustler, join Crystal’s SEO Squad for weekly support! 🎯 Learn More Here

Connect With Shreya:

LinkedIn: Follow Shreya ✨
Check out SEO for Hire for SEO hiring solutions
Explore the Hiring OS Resource Vault 📚

Text me your questions or comments!

Does SEO feel confusing, overwhelming, or just plain impossible to figure out? You’re not alone. That’s why I created the AI SEO Foundations course, powered by Crystal GPT: your personal AI SEO coach designed for busy, creative business owners like you.

Ditch the overwhelm and discover what SEO can do for your business! Head to SEOin7days.com (with the number 7!) and get started today—let’s make your brand easy to find and impossible to ignore.

Support the show

Want to follow up on what you've heard? Search the podcast!

AFFILIATE LINKS:
Start your Shopify Store!
Get SurferSEO!

Metricool (to be everywhere online, you NEED a social media scheduler!)

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!

Shreya LaCock, marketing specialist at SEO For Hire, shares the inside world of SEO recruitment and agency hiring. 

From spotting green flags in potential SEO agencies to navigating gender gaps in job applications, Shreya brings both personal experience and professional wisdom. Y

ou’ll also hear what makes an onboarding process successful, the overlooked “honeymoon phase” of hiring, and how to make sure you’re building the right team for long-term growth.

Whether you’re an SEO agency, a business owner looking to hire, or a curious marketer wondering what it takes to break into the SEO world—this episode is packed with gems you don’t want to miss. 💎

🧠 Key Takeaways:

• Green Flags in SEO Agencies: Look for long employee tenure, clear career progression, and a culture of mentorship—not just ping pong tables and Friday yacht parties.
• Effective Onboarding Matters: SOPs and transparent communication prevent role confusion and reduce the chances of early turnover.
• The Hiring “Honeymoon Phase”: Expect the first 2–3 months to reveal how new hires handle stress—and stick with them through the dip.
• The Gender Gap in Applications: Women tend to apply only when they meet 100% of the job description, while men often apply when they meet far less.
• Hiring an SEO Agency? Ask for a 3-month plan, check their personal branding online, and look for consistent communication and employee stability.

📌 Episode Highlights:

“Don’t grow a team for the sake of growing a team. Grow it to scale your business.” – Shreya LaCock

“Even recruiters know what it’s like to lose a job. We’re people too.” – Shreya LaCock

🎯 Listener Action Items:

• 🔍 Review your own hiring process: Do you have clear SOPs and onboarding plans for new team members?
• 📋 Vet your future SEO agency: Check Glassdoor reviews, ask for case studies, and look at employee tenure.
• 💼 Applying for a job? Go for it—even if you don’t meet 100% of the qualifications. You bring more to the table than you think.
• 🧰 Download SEO For Hire’s “Hiring OS” or create your own version of job ad templates, onboarding docs, and salary guides.

Connect With Shreya LaCock:

Linkedin

SEO For Hire

Get the "

Text me your questions or comments!

Does SEO feel confusing, overwhelming, or just plain impossible to figure out? You’re not alone. That’s why I created the AI SEO Foundations course, powered by Crystal GPT: your personal AI SEO coach designed for busy, creative business owners like you.

Ditch the overwhelm and discover what SEO can do for your business! Head to SEOin7days.com (with the number 7!) and get started today—let’s make your brand easy to find and impossible to ignore.

Support the show

Want to follow up on what you've heard? Search the podcast!

AFFILIATE LINKS:
Start your Shopify Store!
Get SurferSEO!

Metricool (to be everywhere online, you NEED a social media scheduler!)

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 can't-miss episode of the Simple and Smart SEO Show, Crystal Waddell reconnects with digital strategist and SEO pro Favour Obasi-ike. 

Whether you're podcasting on Wix, exploring RSS feeds, or wondering how to rank better using voice search, this episode is full of insights you can apply today to stay ahead tomorrow.

🔑 Key Takeaways:

• Own Your Platform: Hosting your podcast on a separate domain boosts domain authority and builds a long-term digital asset.
• Podcast SEO: Turn each episode into its own optimized URL with keyword-rich titles for better indexing and searchability.
• RSS Feeds & Site Maps: These are the backbone of your content strategy—essential for pushing updates and syncing across platforms like Pinterest.
• AI Tools: Tools like Harpa AI can streamline SEO research, transcription, and content creation across platforms.
• Voice Search Readiness: As voice search rises, your brand needs to show up in verbal queries, not just typed ones.
• From SEO to Thought Leadership: The future of SEO is about positioning yourself as a thought leader—focus on delivering value, not just ranking.

✨ Memorable Quotes:

• “Stay ready so you don’t have to get ready.” — Favour Obasi-ike
• “Your website is like a book. Each page is a chapter that Google can rank.” — Favour Obasi-ike
• “You don’t want to be a seller. You want to tell stories people can remember.” — Favour Obasi-ike

📌 Listener Action Items:

• 🛠️ Audit Your Podcast URLs: Are they keyword-friendly? Custom? Indexable?
• 📥 Connect Your RSS Feed: Sync your blog and podcast content to Pinterest and Google Search Console.
• 🌐 Secure Your Domain: Make sure your podcast has a dedicated domain or subdomain to boost long-term visibility.
• 🔍 Explore Harpa.AI: Try this Chrome extension to level up your content creation and SEO game.
• 🎙️ Rethink Content: Are you presenting yourself as a thought leader? Use SEO to show, not just tell.

Connect With Favour:

Linkedin

We Don't Play Podcast

Website

Courses
Connect

Text me your questions or comments!

Does SEO feel confusing, overwhelming, or just plain impossible to figure out? You’re not alone. That’s why I created the AI SEO Foundations course, powered by Crystal GPT: your personal AI SEO coach designed for busy, creative business owners like you.

Ditch the overwhelm and discover what SEO can do for your business! Head to SEOin7days.com (with the number 7!) and get started today—let’s make your brand easy to find and impossible to ignore.

Support the show

Want to follow up on what you've heard? Search the podcast!

AFFILIATE LINKS:
Start your Shopify Store!
Get SurferSEO!

Metricool (to be everywhere online, you NEED a social media scheduler!)

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 is a full-circle moment! 

Crystal reconnects with the person who first planted the seed that SEO could actually drive traffic—without the middleman of social media. 

Meet Favour Obasi-ike: a podcasting pioneer, SEO strategist, and founder of We Don’t Play Podcast. 

Together, Crystal and Favour take a nostalgic ride through their Clubhouse days, unpack the magic of Pinterest SEO, explore the future of RSS feeds, and share why your website needs a sitemap. 

Like, yesterday!

Whether you're a seasoned business owner or just now dipping your toe into SEO, this episode is packed with heart, tech, and next-level brand-building tips.

🔑 Key Takeaways:
✋🏽 SEO isn’t just for tech bros—it’s for creatives, connectors, and community builders.
✋🏽 Pinterest + SEO = a secret traffic goldmine (especially when you tap into RSS feeds).
✋🏽 Your sitemap is basically your website’s brain—don’t leave it blank!
✋🏽 Clubhouse may have changed, but the relationships (and strategy seeds) planted there still matter.
✋🏽 Repurposing content—like using podcast convos for blogs—is a powerful SEO move.

📌 Episode Highlights:

“Hey, there’s this thing off social media called SEO…”
“If you're not getting traffic, it's probably because you don’t have a sitemap.”
“Pinterest is SEO in disguise—and it’s growing fast.”
“Clubhouse was our digital coffee shop in 2020. And the friendships stuck.”

🎧 Listen Now If You:

• Miss those early Clubhouse convos and want to feel seen.
• Need SEO and Pinterest demystified in a kind, relatable way.
• Love stories about how business friendships shape your journey.

📝 Listener Action Items:
 

✅ Check if your site has an XML sitemap (and fix it if not!).
✅ Connect your blog’s RSS feed to Pinterest to automate pinning - or call Favour for help!
✅ Send this episode to an old friend who inspired your entrepreneurial path.

Connect With Favour:

Linkedin

We Don't Play Podcast

Website

Courses
Connect

Text me your questions or comments!

Does SEO feel confusing, overwhelming, or just plain impossible to figure out? You’re not alone. That’s why I created the AI SEO Foundations course, powered by Crystal GPT: your personal AI SEO coach designed for busy, creative business owners like you.

Ditch the overwhelm and discover what SEO can do for your business! Head to SEOin7days.com (with the number 7!) and get started today—let’s make your brand easy to find and impossible to ignore.

Support the show

Want to follow up on what you've heard? Search the podcast!

AFFILIATE LINKS:
Start your Shopify Store!
Get SurferSEO!

Metricool (to be everywhere online, you NEED a social media scheduler!)

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 insightful and refreshingly practical episode of the Simple and Smart SEO Show, Crystal sits down with Alyssa Corso—SEO strategist and healthcare content pro—to talk all things content refresh. 

Alyssa breaks down her favorite ways to optimize existing content without burning it all down.

Whether you're running a blog in a Your Money or Your Life (YMYL) niche or just wondering if updating the year in your title is enough (spoiler alert: it's not 😅), this episode is packed with real-world tips to make your SEO strategy work smarter, not harder.

💡 Key Takeaways:

• Not All Updates Are Equal: A content refresh doesn’t have to mean a full rewrite. Small additions like FAQs or new sources can move the needle.
• YMYL Content = Higher Standards: If your content impacts someone’s health, money, or safety, Google expects top-notch trust and quality signals.
• Check the SERP Features: See what’s ranking (video packs, AI overviews, People Also Ask), then optimize accordingly.
• Don’t Be That Brand: Simply changing the publish date isn’t an update—it’s shady and ineffective.
• Internal & External Links Matter: Link to your own valuable content and trustworthy external sources like .gov or .edu sites to build EEAT.
• AI Isn’t Replacing You (Yet): Use ChatGPT for brainstorming, but don’t let it do all the thinking for you.

🔥 Memorable Quotes:

• “A content update doesn’t have to be an overhaul... It can be an FAQ insert or updating your sources and links.” - Alyssa Corso
• “If you’re ranking #1 but not in the featured snippet—why not try and go for it?” - Alyssa Corso

✅ Listener Action Items:

• 📝 Audit your older posts—can you add a helpful FAQ or new source?
• 🔍 Search your target keyword and note what SERP features appear.
• 🔗 Add new internal and external links to boost EEAT.

📬 Connect with Alyssa at alyssacorso.com or drop her a line at alyssa@alyssacorso.com.

Text me your questions or comments!

Does SEO feel confusing, overwhelming, or just plain impossible to figure out? You’re not alone. That’s why I created the AI SEO Foundations course, powered by Crystal GPT: your personal AI SEO coach designed for busy, creative business owners like you.

Ditch the overwhelm and discover what SEO can do for your business! Head to SEOin7days.com (with the number 7!) and get started today—let’s make your brand easy to find and impossible to ignore.

Support the show

Want to follow up on what you've heard? Search the podcast!

AFFILIATE LINKS:
Start your Shopify Store!
Get SurferSEO!

Metricool (to be everywhere online, you NEED a social media scheduler!)

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, Crystal Waddell chats with SEO consultant and BrightonSEO speaker Alyssa Corso about a topic every content creator should understand—SEO content decay. 

Alyssa shares how content naturally loses visibility over time and outlines a strategic process for updating content to improve performance and generate real business results.

From identifying "money keywords" to understanding the phases of content decay, this episode is packed with insights on how to make your existing content work harder for your business. 

Whether you're a startup with limited resources or a seasoned marketer, Alyssa’s practical strategies will help you tie your content efforts to revenue—and avoid wasting valuable time.

🔑 Key Takeaways:

• SEO Content Decay Defined: Alyssa breaks down the lifecycle of content—from initial spike to inevitable decline—and why regular updates matter.
• Revenue-Driven Content Strategy: Learn how to identify "money keywords" and optimize content that leads to conversions.
• Update with Purpose: Alyssa explains how to use tools like Google Analytics, Google Search Console, and SEOGets to prioritize what to update and when.
• Content Clusters for Niche SEO: Especially in industries like healthcare, Alyssa shows how to build supporting content around core topics.
• Avoid Reactionary SEO: Don’t overreact to algorithm changes—strategic, user-first updates are key.

🔦 Episode Highlights:

"Does this piece of content bring revenue to the business—or does it have another type of value to reach your goals?"
– Alyssa Corso"

There’s more opportunity on the other side of trying than not trying at all."
– Crystal Waddell

✅ Listener Action Items:

• Audit your existing blog content using Google Analytics and Search Console.
• Identify your top revenue-driving keywords—aka "money keywords."
• Create a spreadsheet or use a tool like Monday.com to monitor content age and performance.
• Update content that aligns with your business goals, not just based on rankings.
• Track conversions through GA4, UTM links, or email capture to understand content impact.

Connect with Alyssa:

Linkedin

AlyssaCorso.com

Text me your questions or comments!

Does SEO feel confusing, overwhelming, or just plain impossible to figure out? You’re not alone. That’s why I created the AI SEO Foundations course, powered by Crystal GPT: your personal AI SEO coach designed for busy, creative business owners like you.

Ditch the overwhelm and discover what SEO can do for your business! Head to SEOin7days.com (with the number 7!) and get started today—let’s make your brand easy to find and impossible to ignore.

Support the show

Want to follow up on what you've heard? Search the podcast!

AFFILIATE LINKS:
Start your Shopify Store!
Get SurferSEO!

Metricool (to be everywhere online, you NEED a social media scheduler!)

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 jam-packed Part 2 episode, I continue my insightful chat with David Green, founder of Devslove.com. 

We dive deep into Google Ads, strategic ad spend, and the realities of running paid campaigns for small businesses. 

David shares expert insights on choosing the right platform, retargeting strategies, and why SEO and AI-driven search are shaping the future of digital marketing. 

Plus, we discuss pricing, profitability, and setting the right goals to make digital marketing actually work for your business. 

If you're an entrepreneur looking for a clear strategy to maximize your online presence, this is an episode you don’t want to miss!

🔥 Key Takeaways:

 ✅ Choosing the Right Platform – Should you start with Google Ads, Facebook, or LinkedIn?
✅ Retargeting 101 – The power of keeping your brand top of mind for potential customers.
✅ Ad Spend Strategy – The 90-day rule for testing ad profitability.
✅ Pricing and Profitability – Why underpricing can ruin your ability to run ads effectively.
✅ SEO vs. Paid Search – How they work together for long-term growth.
✅ AI & Search Trends – What’s changing in 2025 and why SEO is still critical.

✨ Memorable Quotes:

💡 “Google Search is one of the best proxies for demand that you can find.” – David Green
💡 “If you're not converting high-intent visitors, something is wrong with your website—not your ads.” – David Green
💡 “Ads don’t work if your pricing isn’t built for profitability.” – Crystal Waddell
💡 “SEO is about more than just traffic—it’s about making that traffic meaningful for your business.” – Crystal Waddell

🎯 Listener Action Items:

✔️ Do a quick Google keyword check before diving into ads—is your audience even searching?
✔️ Audit your website’s conversion process before launching paid ads.
✔️ Consider a retargeting strategy—not everyone buys on their first visit!
 

Text me your questions or comments!

Hey creative entrepreneur—does SEO feel confusing, overwhelming, or just plain impossible to figure out? You’re not alone. That’s why I created the AI SEO Foundations course, powered by CrystalGPT: your personal AI SEO coach designed for busy, creative business owners like you.

Crystal GPT walks you through what matters most for your website. Head to SEOin7days.com (with a 7!) and get started today—let’s make your brand easy to find and impossible to ignore.

Does SEO feel confusing, overwhelming, or just plain impossible to figure out? You’re not alone. That’s why I created the AI SEO Foundations course, powered by Crystal GPT: your personal AI SEO coach designed for busy, creative business owners like you.

Ditch the overwhelm and discover what SEO can do for your business! Head to SEOin7days.com (with the number 7!) and get started today—let’s make your brand easy to find and impossible to ignore.

Support the show

Want to follow up on what you've heard? Search the podcast!

AFFILIATE LINKS:
Start your Shopify Store!
Get SurferSEO!

Metricool (to be everywhere online, you NEED a social media scheduler!)

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'm sitting down with David Green, founder of Devs Love, to talk about the major shifts happening in digital marketing! 

Fresh after BrightonSEO, David shared insights from his strategic planning retreat, where AI disruption was front and center. 

We discuss how AI levels the playing field for small agencies, the shift in Google Search, and why omni-channel marketing is no longer optional. 

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

💡 AI’s Role in Leveling the Playing Field – How small businesses can leverage AI to compete with big agencies.
🔍 Google Search vs. Perplexity AI – Why experts say Google Search is in trouble.
📈 YouTube Ads & Brand Growth – How tracking search impressions can prove ad impact.
🧠 Strategic Planning for 2025 – What small businesses need to focus on in the age of AI.
🙌 The Human Factor in Marketing – Why staying close to your customers is more critical than ever.

Memorable Quotes:

🗣️ "AI is disrupting marketing at the same level as when smartphones changed how people buy." – David Green
🗣️ "ChatGPT writes really good code—just tell it what you want!" – David Green
🗣️ "Omni-channel marketing isn’t the future—it’s the now." – Crystal Waddell
🗣️ "Tech companies that ignore their core users? That’s how they lose them." – Crystal Waddell

Listener Action Items:

✅ Experiment with AI tools like ChatGPT to automate and optimize marketing.
 ✅ Diversify your traffic sources—don’t rely solely on Google.
 ✅ Re-evaluate your ad strategies with a long-term view.
 ✅ Stay engaged with your customers to understand their needs in real-time.
 ✅ Tune in for Part 2, where David dives deep into Google Ads for small businesses!

📌 Stay Connected:
🎙️ Listen & Subscribe: podcast.simpleandsmartseo.com
💬 Follow Crystal: SimpleandSmartSEO.com
👥 Connect with David Green: DevsLove.com LinkedIn

Don’t miss Part 2, where we unlock the secrets of Google Ads for small businesses! 🎧

Text me your questions or comments!

Does SEO feel confusing, overwhelming, or just plain impossible to figure out? You’re not alone. That’s why I created the AI SEO Foundations course, powered by Crystal GPT: your personal AI SEO coach designed for busy, creative business owners like you.

Ditch the overwhelm and discover what SEO can do for your business! Head to SEOin7days.com (with the number 7!) and get started today—let’s make your brand easy to find and impossible to ignore.

Support the show

Want to follow up on what you've heard? Search the podcast!

AFFILIATE LINKS:
Start your Shopify Store!
Get SurferSEO!

Metricool (to be everywhere online, you NEED a social media scheduler!)

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!

Welcome back to another Follow Through Friday on the Simple and Smart SEO Show! 🚀 

If you caught my conversation with Katie Stone, SEO lead at Lead Hub, you know we went deep on local SEO, Google Search Console Insights, and keyword strategy. 

(Missed it? No worries! Listen Here!)

Ready to make your SEO work for you? 

👇🏽 Let’s dive in. 👇🏽

💎 Key Takeaways:

1️⃣ Google Search Console = Your SEO Goldmine

🔍 Google Search Console (GSC) isn’t just a data hub—it’s your secret weapon for seeing exactly how people find your website. But did you know you can unlock even deeper insights with the Enhanced Analytics Chrome Extension? 😱

🚀 Pro Tip: Install the GSC Enhanced Analytics extension (Chrome-only!) to unlock advanced data views

💥 Action Step: Check your top-performing pages and compare their performance over time. Do any need a content update? 🤔

2️⃣ Keyword Research: Smarter, Not Harder

Instead of chasing broad, generic keywords (water heater 🔥😴), think action-based—like water heater installation (boom! 💥).

Why? These show intent to purchase. 🛍️

💥 Action Step: Use GSC filters to find high-intent keywords.

3️⃣ Competitor Research = Your Shortcut to SEO Wins

💡 Ever wonder what keywords your competitors are ranking for that you’re not? That’s where Keyword Gap Analysis comes in.

🔥 Crystal’s Favorite Tool: Dragon Metrics (but Semrush & Ahrefs work too!)

📊 How it works:
1️⃣ Run a Keyword Gap Analysis to see what your competitors rank for that you don’t.
2️⃣ Identify "easy win" topics
3️⃣ Create new blog posts, landing pages, or optimize existing pages 

🎯 Your Follow-Through Challenge 🚀

Pick just one of these action steps and implement it this week:
✅ Install the GSC Enhanced Analytics Extension & analyze your top pages
✅ Use intent-based keyword filters to refine your keyword strategy
✅ Run a Keyword Gap Analysis and find opportunities to steal some rankings

Then tell me how it goes! 📩 Need more help? Book an 

Text me your questions or comments!

Does SEO feel confusing, overwhelming, or just plain impossible to figure out? You’re not alone. That’s why I created the AI SEO Foundations course, powered by Crystal GPT: your personal AI SEO coach designed for busy, creative business owners like you.

Ditch the overwhelm and discover what SEO can do for your business! Head to SEOin7days.com (with the number 7!) and get started today—let’s make your brand easy to find and impossible to ignore.

Support the show

Want to follow up on what you've heard? Search the podcast!

AFFILIATE LINKS:
Start your Shopify Store!
Get SurferSEO!

Metricool (to be everywhere online, you NEED a social media scheduler!)

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 special solo episode of The Simple and Smart SEO Show, host Crystal Waddell reflects on her conversation with branding expert Mordy Oberstein. 

She shares key insights on defining your brand identity, optimizing SEO for conversions, and making smart business decisions that foster growth. 

Crystal also provides real-world examples of how she applied these lessons to her e-commerce business, proving that when branding and SEO work together, magic happens. 

If you’ve ever struggled with niching down, pricing your products right, or making your website more engaging, this episode is packed with actionable tips!

Key Takeaways:

✅ Know Your Brand Identity – If you're not something, you're nothing. Be clear about who you serve and who you don’t.
✅ Focus on Niche Markets – Trying to sell to everyone leads to confusion. Pick a market and dominate it.
✅ Pricing for Profit – Charging too little means working for free. Stand firm on prices that sustain your business.
✅ SEO + Branding = Conversions – Ranking high isn't enough; you must connect emotionally to turn visitors into buyers.
✅ Smart Business Growth – Expanding isn't about offering more—it’s about offering better and creating repeat customers.

Memorable Quotes:

 💡 “SEO isn’t just about being found; it’s about being remembered.” – Crystal Waddell
💡 “No risk it, no biscuit!” – Mordy Oberstein

Listener Action Items:

🚀 Reflect on your brand identity. Who are you truly serving?
 🚀 Review your website. Does it resonate with your audience, or is it just optimized for traffic?
 🚀 Re-evaluate your pricing strategy. Are you charging what you're worth?
 🚀 Consider business expansion wisely—does it align with your core audience?
 🚀 Take a step toward improving your branding and SEO integration today!

Resources & Links:

📌 Listen to the original episode with Mordy Oberstein –
 📌 Visit Crystal’s business, Collage and Wood
📌 Get in touch with Crystal – SimpleAndSmartSEO.com

Text me your questions or comments!

Does SEO feel confusing, overwhelming, or just plain impossible to figure out? You’re not alone. That’s why I created the AI SEO Foundations course, powered by Crystal GPT: your personal AI SEO coach designed for busy, creative business owners like you.

Ditch the overwhelm and discover what SEO can do for your business! Head to SEOin7days.com (with the number 7!) and get started today—let’s make your brand easy to find and impossible to ignore.

Support the show

Want to follow up on what you've heard? Search the podcast!

AFFILIATE LINKS:
Start your Shopify Store!
Get SurferSEO!

Metricool (to be everywhere online, you NEED a social media scheduler!)

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 guest-hosted episode of The Simple and Smart SEO Show, Celeste Gonzalez (Director of Roo Labs at Rickety Roo) and Melissa Popp (Content Strategy Director at Rickety Roo) dive deep into local SEO strategies. 

They explore the power of problem-solving content for small businesses and how local companies can stand out against larger competitors. The discussion covers how to identify local pain points, create community-driven content, and balance SEO with engagement-focused strategies.

Key Takeaways:

✅ Problem-solving content builds trust: Addressing real-life local issues makes your brand more credible and relevant to your community.
✅ Go beyond keyword research: Your own team, customer inquiries, and community forums are valuable content sources.
✅ Multi-location businesses must localize content: Even national brands need to engage with community-specific challenges.
✅ Community engagement fosters long-term brand awareness: Covering local issues—even those indirectly related to your business—helps position you as a trusted resource.
✅ Diversify beyond SEO: Businesses that rely solely on organic traffic risk losing visibility. Multi-channel marketing is essential.

Episode Highlights & Memorable Quotes:

📊 On balancing SEO and branding:
"Too many businesses focus only on SEO content. But content should build trust first and rank second."

💡 On social media’s role in local SEO:
"Why are SEOs suddenly ‘discovering’ branding? Multi-channel marketing has always been vital—businesses need to go where their customers are."

Listener Action Items:

✅ Audit your content strategy: Are you focusing too much on generic SEO content? Find ways to localize and address specific pain points.
✅ Mine insights from your team: Ask your customer service reps and tech

Text me your questions or comments!

Hey creative entrepreneur—does SEO feel confusing, overwhelming, or just plain impossible to figure out? You’re not alone. That’s why I created the AI SEO Foundations course, powered by CrystalGPT: your personal AI SEO coach designed for busy, creative business owners like you.

Crystal GPT walks you through what matters most for your website. Head to SEOin7days.com (with a 7!) and get started today—let’s make your brand easy to find and impossible to ignore.

Does SEO feel confusing, overwhelming, or just plain impossible to figure out? You’re not alone. That’s why I created the AI SEO Foundations course, powered by Crystal GPT: your personal AI SEO coach designed for busy, creative business owners like you.

Ditch the overwhelm and discover what SEO can do for your business! Head to SEOin7days.com (with the number 7!) and get started today—let’s make your brand easy to find and impossible to ignore.

Support the show

Want to follow up on what you've heard? Search the podcast!

AFFILIATE LINKS:
Start your Shopify Store!
Get SurferSEO!

Metricool (to be everywhere online, you NEED a social media scheduler!)

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, host Crystal Waddell sits down with Katie Stone, SEO Lead at LeadHub, to discuss local SEO strategies, keyword research, and essential SEO tools. 

Katie shares her insights from Brighton SEO, her journey in the industry, and practical tips for leveraging Google Search Console, Screaming Frog, and keyword gap analysis to gain a competitive edge.

Key Takeaways:

• Google Search Console can be a free and powerful tool for uncovering content ideas and improving topical authority.
• Hyperlocal SEO is critical for small businesses, focusing on local pain points and industry-specific challenges.
• Keyword gap analysis helps identify content opportunities and outrank competitors.
• Competitor research is key—using tools like SEMrush, Ahrefs, and DragonMetrics to analyze backlinks and search visibility.
• SEO tools with AI integrations need improvement, but Screaming Frog’s AI and Lighthouse integrations offer actionable insights.
• Zero-click searches are reshaping SEO metrics—impressions and visibility will play a bigger role in future rankings.

Memorable Quotes:

• 🗣️ “Your website should answer the questions your users are asking. Google Search Console can show you exactly what those questions are.” – Katie Stone
• 🔍 “Hyperlocal content helps you dominate local search—understand your community’s unique challenges and address them in your content.” – Katie Stone
• 📊 “SEO isn’t just about reacting to Google updates. You can go on the offensive and overtake competitors with the right strategy.” – Katie Stone
• 🚀 “The future of SEO tools lies in tracking brand visibility, not just rankings, because zero-click searches are taking away our clicks.” – Katie Stone

Listener Action Items:

✅ Analyze your website’s top queries in Google Search Consol

Text me your questions or comments!

Hey creative entrepreneur—does SEO feel confusing, overwhelming, or just plain impossible to figure out? You’re not alone. That’s why I created the AI SEO Foundations course, powered by CrystalGPT: your personal AI SEO coach designed for busy, creative business owners like you.

Crystal GPT walks you through what matters most for your website. Head to SEOin7days.com (with a 7!) and get started today—let’s make your brand easy to find and impossible to ignore.

Does SEO feel confusing, overwhelming, or just plain impossible to figure out? You’re not alone. That’s why I created the AI SEO Foundations course, powered by Crystal GPT: your personal AI SEO coach designed for busy, creative business owners like you.

Ditch the overwhelm and discover what SEO can do for your business! Head to SEOin7days.com (with the number 7!) and get started today—let’s make your brand easy to find and impossible to ignore.

Support the show

Want to follow up on what you've heard? Search the podcast!

AFFILIATE LINKS:
Start your Shopify Store!
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Metricool (to be everywhere online, you NEED a social media scheduler!)

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 Simple and Smart SEO, Crystal Waddell sits down with the one and only Mordy Oberstein—Head of Brand at Wix, founder of Unify Brand Marketing, and self-proclaimed SEO contrarian (with a soft spot for brutal honesty). 

If you think SEO is just about keywords and backlinks, Mordy is here to obliterate that notion faster than an algorithm update can tank your rankings.

They dive into how businesses should stop trying to be everything (because newsflash: that means you’re nothing), and why SEOs should stop acting like lone wolves and start sitting with the comms team.

💡 Key Takeaways:

• Branding is a Mindset: If your brand is just ‘meh,’ then congrats—you’ve successfully made yourself forgettable.
• Empathy & Nuance in Marketing: Understanding your audience is not just a trendy phrase—it’s literally the difference between a brand that connects and one that screams into the void.
• SEO & Branding Are Now Besties: Gone are the days of SEO being just about technical hacks. If you don’t integrate branding, you’re just playing whack-a-mole with rankings.
• Positioning > Messaging: If you skip positioning and jump straight to messaging, you’re basically a minivan company trying to sell “coolness” (spoiler: it’s not working).
• Vulnerability in Branding: Yes, making a bold brand choice means some people won’t like you. No, you cannot please everyone. Yes, that is actually a good thing.
• Welcome to the Digital Winter: There’s too much noise, too much content, and too many companies trying to be everything. The winners? Brands that actually resonate.

🔥 Memorable Quotes:

“If you aren’t something, then you’re nothing. And if you’re something, then you’re for somebody.” – Mordy Oberstein

“No risk it, no biscuit.” – Mordy (channeling his inner Todd Bowles while explaining brand strategy)

🛠 Resources & Mentions:

Text me your questions or comments!

Hey creative entrepreneur—does SEO feel confusing, overwhelming, or just plain impossible to figure out? You’re not alone. That’s why I created the AI SEO Foundations course, powered by CrystalGPT: your personal AI SEO coach designed for busy, creative business owners like you.

Crystal GPT walks you through what matters most for your website. Head to SEOin7days.com (with a 7!) and get started today—let’s make your brand easy to find and impossible to ignore.

Does SEO feel confusing, overwhelming, or just plain impossible to figure out? You’re not alone. That’s why I created the AI SEO Foundations course, powered by Crystal GPT: your personal AI SEO coach designed for busy, creative business owners like you.

Ditch the overwhelm and discover what SEO can do for your business! Head to SEOin7days.com (with the number 7!) and get started today—let’s make your brand easy to find and impossible to ignore.

Support the show

Want to follow up on what you've heard? Search the podcast!

AFFILIATE LINKS:
Start your Shopify Store!
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Metricool (to be everywhere online, you NEED a social media scheduler!)

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, Crystal Waddell reflects on her marketing strategies and shares three key action items to optimize marketing efforts without extra workload. 

She dives into integrating marketing channels, dedicating time for learning, and repurposing content efficiently. 

If you're looking for smart ways to strengthen your marketing strategy, this episode is packed with practical tips!

Key Takeaways:

1. Integrate Your Marketing Channels – Ensure social media, blog posts, and email marketing work together to guide potential customers toward conversions.
2. Dedicate Weekly Learning Time – Stay updated with SEO and marketing trends by setting aside time to learn new strategies.
3. Repurpose Content Effectively – Transform high-performing content into new formats for different platforms to maximize reach and save time.

Episode Highlights:

• 🔹 "Are your marketing channels actually working together? If not, it's time for a strategy tweak."
• 🔹 "One of the biggest mistakes I made was always creating new content instead of leveraging what I already had."
• 🔹 "If you’re not learning something new, you’re falling behind. SEO and marketing are always evolving!"

Listener Action Items:

✅ Audit your marketing channels – Are they effectively driving traffic to your email list and products?
 ✅ Block 30 minutes this week to learn something new about SEO or marketing.
 ✅ Repurpose one high-performing piece of content into a different format.

Resources & Links:

📌 Download the Content Repurposing Spreadsheet 
📌 Follow Crystal on Instagram: @simpleandsmartseo
📌 Need personalized SEO coaching? Visit: simpleandsmartseo.com

Support & Connect:

📩 Email: hello@simpleandsmartseo.com
⭐ If you loved this episode, leave a review & subscribe—it helps more entrepreneurs find these SEO insights!

Text me your questions or comments!

Does SEO feel confusing, overwhelming, or just plain impossible to figure out? You’re not alone. That’s why I created the AI SEO Foundations course, powered by Crystal GPT: your personal AI SEO coach designed for busy, creative business owners like you.

Ditch the overwhelm and discover what SEO can do for your business! Head to SEOin7days.com (with the number 7!) and get started today—let’s make your brand easy to find and impossible to ignore.

Support the show

Want to follow up on what you've heard? Search the podcast!

AFFILIATE LINKS:
Start your Shopify Store!
Get SurferSEO!

Metricool (to be everywhere online, you NEED a social media scheduler!)

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 sit down with marketing strategist and agency owner Raycheal Proctor from Unlimited Mixed Marketing. 

We chat the transformative power of omni-channel marketing, discussing how different channels can work cohesively to elevate visibility and results. 

Raycheal shares her journey from classical musician to marketing maven and offers invaluable advice on leveraging SEO, paid media, and account-based marketing to create efficient, holistic strategies. 

Packed with real-life case studies and actionable tips, this episode is perfect for entrepreneurs and marketers looking to optimize their brand’s presence across platforms.

Key Takeaways:

1. The Power of Omni-Channel Marketing: Combining SEO with paid media and other channels leads to better results and long-term efficiency.
2. Targeted Approach Over Silos: A hyper-targeted, account-based strategy can eliminate digital noise and deliver measurable success.
3. Repurposing Content: Maximize content value by breaking it into smaller formats for blogs, emails, and more.
4. Continuous Learning and Adaptation: Stay updated with marketing trends and maintain flexibility to pivot strategies as needed.
5. Personalized Branding: Passive branding, like wearing branded apparel during webinars, can be a natural and effective marketing tool.

Memorable Quotes:

• Raycheal Proctor: "The long-term gains from SEO should directly complement the short-term gains from paid media."
• Crystal Waddell: "You gave us permission to define who we work with and create mutually beneficial relationships."
• Raycheal Proctor: "Doing what you love in a way that brings joy and profit is always a win."

Listener Action Items:

1. Explore how your current marketing channels can complement each other. Start small with two to three channels and grow over time.
2. Dedicate time each week for intentional learning—review updates, refine strategies, and enhance

Text me your questions or comments!

Hey creative entrepreneur—does SEO feel confusing, overwhelming, or just plain impossible to figure out? You’re not alone. That’s why I created the AI SEO Foundations course, powered by CrystalGPT: your personal AI SEO coach designed for busy, creative business owners like you.

Crystal GPT walks you through what matters most for your website. Head to SEOin7days.com (with a 7!) and get started today—let’s make your brand easy to find and impossible to ignore.

Does SEO feel confusing, overwhelming, or just plain impossible to figure out? You’re not alone. That’s why I created the AI SEO Foundations course, powered by Crystal GPT: your personal AI SEO coach designed for busy, creative business owners like you.

Ditch the overwhelm and discover what SEO can do for your business! Head to SEOin7days.com (with the number 7!) and get started today—let’s make your brand easy to find and impossible to ignore.

Support the show

Want to follow up on what you've heard? Search the podcast!

AFFILIATE LINKS:
Start your Shopify Store!
Get SurferSEO!

Metricool (to be everywhere online, you NEED a social media scheduler!)

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 part two of these special guest-hosted episodes of The Simple and Smart SEO Show, Sara Jensen and Shea Karssing explore how AI is reshaping SEO, the importance of human creativity in marketing, and the long-term value of offline brand-building. 

Dive into practical tips for 2025, such as creating quality content, embracing conversational tones, and leveraging AI as a tool, not a replacement. 

Learn how brand awareness impacts SEO and why genuine human connection still reigns supreme in the digital world.

🎧 Key Takeaways:

1. AI’s Role in SEO and Marketing:
   • AI tools are powerful but lack human creativity and intuition.
   • Combine human insight with AI-generated content for quality marketing.
2. Google's E-E-A-T Principles:
   • Expertise, Experience, Authority, and Trust are central to SEO success.
   • Prioritize human-led, high-quality content over low-effort hacks.
3. Offline Activities Boost SEO:
   • Brand awareness through local events and networking enhances online authority.
   • Multiple touchpoints, both online and offline, strengthen customer trust.
4. 2025 Content Strategy Priorities:
   • Focus on quality over quantity in content creation.
   • Build your email list—it remains a critical asset.
   • Conversational writing aligns with voice search trends.
5. Conversion-Driven Metrics:
   • Traffic isn’t everything; analyze how it converts into leads and sales.

✨ Memorable Quotes:

• Sara Jensen: "I don't want AI to write and create so I can do chores. I want AI to handle chores so I can write and create."
• Shea Karssing: "SEO might sound like it’s built for machines, but at its core, it’s all about humans."
• Sara Jensen: "Focus on quality content because anyone can do quantity now."

📌 Listener Action Items:

1. Audit your website for content quality—prioritize human voice and creativity.
2. Track conversion

Text me your questions or comments!

Hey creative entrepreneur—does SEO feel confusing, overwhelming, or just plain impossible to figure out? You’re not alone. That’s why I created the AI SEO Foundations course, powered by CrystalGPT: your personal AI SEO coach designed for busy, creative business owners like you.

Crystal GPT walks you through what matters most for your website. Head to SEOin7days.com (with a 7!) and get started today—let’s make your brand easy to find and impossible to ignore.

Does SEO feel confusing, overwhelming, or just plain impossible to figure out? You’re not alone. That’s why I created the AI SEO Foundations course, powered by Crystal GPT: your personal AI SEO coach designed for busy, creative business owners like you.

Ditch the overwhelm and discover what SEO can do for your business! Head to SEOin7days.com (with the number 7!) and get started today—let’s make your brand easy to find and impossible to ignore.

Support the show

Want to follow up on what you've heard? Search the podcast!

AFFILIATE LINKS:
Start your Shopify Store!
Get SurferSEO!

Metricool (to be everywhere online, you NEED a social media scheduler!)

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, host Crystal Waddell dives into breaking news about the TikTok ban in the U.S. and its implications for businesses reliant on the platform. 

Crystal emphasizes the importance of diversifying business strategies, leveraging AI tools to enhance creativity, and staying authentic in branding efforts. Along the way, she shares personal insights on overcoming technical challenges, adapting visibility plans, and balancing family life with professional goals. 

Tune in to discover actionable strategies for thriving amidst change and controversy.

Key Takeaways:

1. Adapt and Diversify Your Strategy: Relying solely on one platform, like TikTok, can leave businesses vulnerable. Spread risk across multiple online and offline channels to build resilience.
2. AI as a Creative Partner: Tools like ChatGPT and Surfer can help structure and amplify your content while allowing space for your unique voice and expertise.
3. Authenticity Matters: Sharing your challenges and failures authentically—especially on platforms like LinkedIn—can foster trust and boost visibility.
4. Plan for the Future: Use current disruptions as an opportunity to reassess your strategies and align them with long-term goals.
5. Stay Grounded: Prioritize what matters most, whether it's family or personal values, while maintaining momentum in your business.

Episode Highlights:

• Breaking News: Crystal shares her experience with the TikTok ban and invites listeners to weigh in on its global perception.
• Business Lessons: Insights into diversifying your business beyond social media and building a consistent, omnichannel presence.
• AI Integration: Practical tips on using AI for blogging, social media strategy, and expanding creative potential.
• Overcoming Challenges: Crystal recounts resolving technical SEO issues and embracing growth through problem-solving.
• Personal Reflection: A heartwarming story about balancing business success with caring for her son during a challenging week.

Memorable Quotes:

• “You cannot build your business on someone else’s land.”
• “Sometimes, you don’t have to be in go mode to be in grow mode.”
• “Focus on authenticity to differentiate your brand and build trust.”

Listener Action Items:

1. Reflect and Adapt: Evaluate how diversified your business strategy is and identify areas to reduce reliance on single platforms.

Text me your questions or comments!

Does SEO feel confusing, overwhelming, or just plain impossible to figure out? You’re not alone. That’s why I created the AI SEO Foundations course, powered by Crystal GPT: your personal AI SEO coach designed for busy, creative business owners like you.

Ditch the overwhelm and discover what SEO can do for your business! Head to SEOin7days.com (with the number 7!) and get started today—let’s make your brand easy to find and impossible to ignore.

Support the show

Want to follow up on what you've heard? Search the podcast!

AFFILIATE LINKS:
Start your Shopify Store!
Get SurferSEO!

Metricool (to be everywhere online, you NEED a social media scheduler!)

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 exciting first-ever guest-hosted episode of the Simple and Smart SEO Show, Sara Jensen and Shea Karssing from Brighter Messaging step in to share their expertise.

They discuss two pressing topics in the world of SEO and digital marketing: why relying solely on AI for content creation is risky and what their predictions are for visibility in 2025.

Sara and Shea explore the nuances of maintaining a human touch in marketing, the limitations of AI tools, and strategies for creating meaningful, effective content. 

Tune in to discover actionable tips and the latest insights for SEO and digital marketing in 2025.

Key Takeaways:

1. AI as a Tool, Not a Creator: AI can assist with brainstorming and summarization but cannot replace the creativity and personal touch required for content creation.
2. The Risks of AI Dependence: Over-relying on AI for marketing can lead to generic, duplicated, and sometimes inaccurate content, harming your brand's trust and SEO rankings.
3. The Value of Human Connection: Authentic human interaction and unique perspectives build trust and differentiate your brand in an increasingly AI-dominated space.
4. Future of Visibility in 2025: Personalization, authenticity, and professional expertise will remain critical for standing out in a competitive digital environment.

Memorable Quotes:

• "Trust is built human to human. You can’t replace that with AI." – Shea Karssing
• "If your graphics look like everybody else's, they’re not going to stop the scroll." – Sara Jensen
• "AI helps with the grunt work but can't replace your creative process." – Sara Jensen

Listener Action Items:

1. Evaluate Your AI Use: Assess how you're using AI in your marketing. Focus on tools that complement your creative efforts rather than replace them.
2. Invest in Human Creativity: Prioritize hiring professionals for critical content like website copy and brand design.
3. Focus on Authe

Text me your questions or comments!

Hey creative entrepreneur—does SEO feel confusing, overwhelming, or just plain impossible to figure out? You’re not alone. That’s why I created the AI SEO Foundations course, powered by CrystalGPT: your personal AI SEO coach designed for busy, creative business owners like you.

Crystal GPT walks you through what matters most for your website. Head to SEOin7days.com (with a 7!) and get started today—let’s make your brand easy to find and impossible to ignore.

Does SEO feel confusing, overwhelming, or just plain impossible to figure out? You’re not alone. That’s why I created the AI SEO Foundations course, powered by Crystal GPT: your personal AI SEO coach designed for busy, creative business owners like you.

Ditch the overwhelm and discover what SEO can do for your business! Head to SEOin7days.com (with the number 7!) and get started today—let’s make your brand easy to find and impossible to ignore.

Support the show

Want to follow up on what you've heard? Search the podcast!

AFFILIATE LINKS:
Start your Shopify Store!
Get SurferSEO!

Metricool (to be everywhere online, you NEED a social media scheduler!)

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, host Crystal Waddell walks listeners through practical steps for optimizing their business. 

Drawing inspiration from RJ Licata's insights on marketing strategy and ruthless prioritization, Crystal shares actionable advice on evaluating your marketing plan, focusing on impactful priorities, building strong networks, and auditing your digital footprint. 

Tune in to learn how small, intentional actions today can lead to big results tomorrow.

Key Takeaways:

1. Evaluate Your Marketing Strategy: Align your efforts with your business goals instead of being distracted by trendy tactics.
2. Ruthless Prioritization: Focus on what truly moves the needle and organize your projects effectively.
3. Expand Your Network: Strengthen relationships and explore new opportunities by joining local groups or reconnecting with old contacts.
4. Audit Your Digital Footprint: Ensure your business presence is optimized across key platforms with an omni-channel approach.

Memorable Quotes:

• "Set the goals and parameters of your business before you get started. Don’t let your business happen to you—happen to your business!"
• "Small actions today lead to big results tomorrow."

Listener Action Items:

1. Focus on ruthless prioritization by outlining your most impactful goals.
2. Reach out to someone in your network this week to strengthen your connections.
3. Join the SEO Squad!

Call-to-Action:

Ready to take your strategy to the next level? DM Crystal on Instagram @SimpleandSmartSEO or connect on LinkedIn. 

Don’t forget to subscribe to the Simple and Smart SEO Show podcast for more tips to optimize your business!

Text me your questions or comments!

Does SEO feel confusing, overwhelming, or just plain impossible to figure out? You’re not alone. That’s why I created the AI SEO Foundations course, powered by Crystal GPT: your personal AI SEO coach designed for busy, creative business owners like you.

Ditch the overwhelm and discover what SEO can do for your business! Head to SEOin7days.com (with the number 7!) and get started today—let’s make your brand easy to find and impossible to ignore.

Support the show

Want to follow up on what you've heard? Search the podcast!

AFFILIATE LINKS:
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Metricool (to be everywhere online, you NEED a social media scheduler!)

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, host Crystal Waddell chats with marketing consultant RJ Licata, founder of Me First Marketing. 

RJ shares his journey from corporate marketing roles to entrepreneurship, diving deep into the importance of prioritization, strategy, and betting on yourself in today's fast-paced business environment. 

Whether you're navigating the world of SEO, building a brand, or just trying to focus your resources as a small business owner, this conversation is packed with actionable insights to elevate your marketing game.

Key Takeaways:

1. Strategy Over Tactics: Understand the "why" behind your marketing campaigns to ensure all efforts align with business objectives.
2. Ruthless Prioritization: Focus on the most impactful projects and eliminate distractions, even if it means "killing your darlings."
3. Betting on Yourself: Building confidence and leveraging personal strengths is essential for long-term success.
4. Building Owned Assets: Ensure your business has a strong foundation of owned channels like websites and email lists to withstand platform changes.
5. Offline Presence Matters: Tailor in-person engagement to your business goals, from networking to local events.

Memorable Quotes:

• RJ Licata: "The real challenge for small business owners is not in executing a campaign; it's knowing which campaigns not to execute."
• Crystal Waddell: "SEO is about taking up as many places on the search engine results page as possible—dominate your digital footprint."
• RJ Licata: "Your marketing should be asset-driven and channel-agnostic."

Listener Action Items:

1. Evaluate Your Marketing Strategy: Identify whether your current efforts are aligned with your business objectives or if you’re stuck in a cycle of tactics.
2. Practice Ruthless Prioritization: List your ongoing projects and campaigns; determine which ones bring the most value and cut the rest.
3. Expand Your Network: Reconnec

Text me your questions or comments!

Hey creative entrepreneur—does SEO feel confusing, overwhelming, or just plain impossible to figure out? You’re not alone. That’s why I created the AI SEO Foundations course, powered by CrystalGPT: your personal AI SEO coach designed for busy, creative business owners like you.

Crystal GPT walks you through what matters most for your website. Head to SEOin7days.com (with a 7!) and get started today—let’s make your brand easy to find and impossible to ignore.

Does SEO feel confusing, overwhelming, or just plain impossible to figure out? You’re not alone. That’s why I created the AI SEO Foundations course, powered by Crystal GPT: your personal AI SEO coach designed for busy, creative business owners like you.

Ditch the overwhelm and discover what SEO can do for your business! Head to SEOin7days.com (with the number 7!) and get started today—let’s make your brand easy to find and impossible to ignore.

Support the show

Want to follow up on what you've heard? Search the podcast!

AFFILIATE LINKS:
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Metricool (to be everywhere online, you NEED a social media scheduler!)

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'm chatting chat with Stephanie Long, AKA "Mrs. SEO," about her groundbreaking new venture, Junction Jack, a vetted SEO marketplace. 

Stephanie shares her journey of creating a trusted space for businesses to connect with top-notch SEO experts. 

From addressing the frustrations of businesses burned by unqualified "experts" to her emotional story behind the name Junction Jack, this episode is packed with insights, advice, and inspiration. 

If you're curious about the future of SEO, voice search, and how empathy-driven practices can reshape the digital landscape, tune in!

Key Takeaways:

1. The Problem with Existing SEO Options:
   • Many SEO "experts" on platforms like Fiverr and Upwork lack the vetting needed for consistent, quality results.
   • Stephanie’s marketplace ensures only experienced, honest, and reliable professionals make the cut.
2. Voice Search is the Future:
   • With AI and machine learning on the rise, optimizing for voice search (and natural language processing) is more critical than ever.
   • Businesses should adapt content to match conversational, voice-driven queries.
3. Community is Key:
   • Building Junction Jack took resilience, networking, and leaning on supportive groups—proving that no entrepreneur succeeds alone.
4. Trust the Process:
   • The road to building something worthwhile is never easy, but authenticity and persistence pay off.

Memorable Quotes:

• “Junction Jack is like Nobu to McDonald’s. If you want high-end SEO service, you come to me!” – Stephanie Long
• “There’s no silver bullet in business. You have to go through it, fail, and learn to succeed.” – Crystal Waddell
• “Voice search is the new frontier—your Alexa or Siri is about to be your website’s best friend.” – Stephanie Long

Listener Action Items:

1. Check Out Junction Jack: Visit junctionjack.co to learn more and sign up for updates.
2. Prep for Voice Searc

Text me your questions or comments!

Hey creative entrepreneur—does SEO feel confusing, overwhelming, or just plain impossible to figure out? You’re not alone. That’s why I created the AI SEO Foundations course, powered by CrystalGPT: your personal AI SEO coach designed for busy, creative business owners like you.

Crystal GPT walks you through what matters most for your website. Head to SEOin7days.com (with a 7!) and get started today—let’s make your brand easy to find and impossible to ignore.

Does SEO feel confusing, overwhelming, or just plain impossible to figure out? You’re not alone. That’s why I created the AI SEO Foundations course, powered by Crystal GPT: your personal AI SEO coach designed for busy, creative business owners like you.

Ditch the overwhelm and discover what SEO can do for your business! Head to SEOin7days.com (with the number 7!) and get started today—let’s make your brand easy to find and impossible to ignore.

Support the show

Want to follow up on what you've heard? Search the podcast!

AFFILIATE LINKS:
Start your Shopify Store!
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Metricool (to be everywhere online, you NEED a social media scheduler!)

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, I reflect on my incredible experience at BrightonSEO 2024 in San Diego. From a first-class upgrade to exciting networking events, unique industry insights, and fun-filled conference highlights, this trip was unforgettable. 

I share tips for making the most of events like BrightonSEO, why networking can redefine your perspective, and the importance of stepping out of your comfort zone. Whether you're an SEO pro or just curious about what makes conferences like this so special, I hope this episode will leave you inspired and ready for your next big opportunity.

Key Takeaways:

1. Networking Pays Off: Events like BrightonSEO offer opportunities to meet industry leaders, forge new connections, and gain valuable insights.
2. Conference Hacks: Joining hotel rewards programs can save time and elevate your travel experience—literally!
3. Be Inspired: The optimism and future-focused ideas from BrightonSEO’s speakers are a reminder to embrace change in SEO and digital marketing.
4. Prepare Strategically: Taking time to plan ahead—whether it’s creating a strategy day or exploring conference apps—can help you maximize value.
5. First-Class Experiences: Sometimes, a little luxury (like an upgraded flight) makes the journey as memorable as the destination.

Memorable Quotes:

• “If it’s valuable to you to be inspired and be around like-minded individuals who are excited about what excites you, BrightonSEO is absolutely worth it.”
• “I got clarity for 2025. I was already excited, but now I’m excited on purpose!”

Listener Action Items:

1. Explore Conferences: Consider attending BrightonSEO or a similar event to level up your knowledge and networking game.
2. Strategize Your Takeaways: After attending a conference, spend a day reflecting and creating actionable strategies for the future.
3. Connect on LinkedIn: Reach out to me to chat about your BrightonSEO experience or ask questions about attending next year.
4. Plan Smart: Join rewards programs and look for auxiliary events like netwalking tours to enhance your next conference experience.

p.s. I am not affiliated with BrightonSEO in any way, just a big fan of their conference!

Text me your questions or comments!

Does SEO feel confusing, overwhelming, or just plain impossible to figure out? You’re not alone. That’s why I created the AI SEO Foundations course, powered by Crystal GPT: your personal AI SEO coach designed for busy, creative business owners like you.

Ditch the overwhelm and discover what SEO can do for your business! Head to SEOin7days.com (with the number 7!) and get started today—let’s make your brand easy to find and impossible to ignore.

Support the show

Want to follow up on what you've heard? Search the podcast!

AFFILIATE LINKS:
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Metricool (to be everywhere online, you NEED a social media scheduler!)

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, I (Crystal Waddell) reveal the must-have tools that fuel my entrepreneurial journey and business success.

Add these to your Black Friday 2024 deals list!

This episode contains affiliate links, which means I could receive payment if you make a purchase after clicking on one of the links. Not all links are affiliate links and these are all products I use and fully recommend!

From client management tools like HoneyBook to SEO powerhouses such as Surfer SEO and Dragon Metrics, I walk you through the essential software that streamlines my workflow and fuels my business growth. 

With insights on AI, website platforms, social media scheduling, and more, this episode is packed with practical tips and exclusive Black Friday deals to elevate your entrepreneurial journey. 

Don't miss my candid recommendations and reflections as I preps for a fresh focus in 2025!

Also - can't believe I left Buzzsprout out of my tech stack but they are great for podcast hosting!

Key Takeaways:

1. Streamline Business Management: Tools like HoneyBook ensure your client communications and contracts stay organized and professional.
2. Boost SEO Performance: Leverage SurferSEO and Dragon Metrics (Use code WADDELL for 5% off!) for advanced content optimization.
3. Enhance Creativity with AI: ChatGPT supports brainstorming and content creation for efficiency and inspiration.
4. Build Impactful Websites: Platforms like Shopify and Wix cater to eCommerce and customized designs for any business need.
5. Optimize Communication & Podcasting: Tools like Google Meet and Squadcast.fm ensure smooth virtual collaboration and high-quality recordings.
6. Simplify Editing & Marketing: Descript, Metricool, TubeBuddy, and Tailwind streamline content creation, scheduling, and audience engagement.
7. Automate Email Marketing: Klaviyo helps segment your audience and create tailored campaigns with robust analytics.

Memorable Quotes:

• "The right tools aren’t just a convenience—they’re the backbone of a successful business."
• "Automation and efficiency give you the time and space to focus on what truly matters—growth and creativity."

Listener Action I

Text me your questions or comments!

Does SEO feel confusing, overwhelming, or just plain impossible to figure out? You’re not alone. That’s why I created the AI SEO Foundations course, powered by Crystal GPT: your personal AI SEO coach designed for busy, creative business owners like you.

Ditch the overwhelm and discover what SEO can do for your business! Head to SEOin7days.com (with the number 7!) and get started today—let’s make your brand easy to find and impossible to ignore.

Support the show

Want to follow up on what you've heard? Search the podcast!

AFFILIATE LINKS:
Start your Shopify Store!
Get SurferSEO!

Metricool (to be everywhere online, you NEED a social media scheduler!)

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!

Lydia Bagarozza and Bridget Sicsko, co-founders of Visibility on Purpose join me to explore the synergy between PR and SEO, sharing actionable tips for small business owners to enhance visibility and credibility. 

From pitching to publications to leveraging backlinks, learn how these strategies can drive traffic, build authority, and create lasting impact. Perfect for entrepreneurs ready to step into the spotlight!

Key Takeaways:

1. PR & SEO Synergy: PR features not only enhance credibility but also boost SEO through high-quality backlinks from reputable publications.
2. Pitching Best Practices: Craft tailored, mindful pitches to grab the attention of writers and editors. Trending topics and unique angles can increase your chances of being featured.
3. Affiliate Marketing Insights: Many online gift guides and articles are affiliate-driven. Understand how to leverage this model to get featured.
4. The Long Game of Visibility: Both PR and SEO are long-term strategies that compound over time, building authority and trust for your brand.
5. PR Tools & Ecosystem: Writers need sources for their articles—position yourself as a go-to expert or brand to support their work.

Memorable Quotes:

• “Your work is the answer to someone’s prayer.” – Briget Sicsko
• “PR is about borrowing someone else’s audience.” – Lydia Bagarozza
• “Helpful content builds trust and drives decisions.” – Crystal Waddell

Listener Action Items:

1. Dedicate 1-2 hours a week to work on your PR strategy, such as pitching to publications or podcasts.
2. Research affiliate models and consider platforms like ShareASale or Skimlinks to support your product visibility.
3. Use tools like Ahrefs to track backlinks and understand the impact of your media features.
4. Identify your business goals and align your PR and SEO strategies to support them.
5. Join PR-focused communities or challenges to refine your pitching skills and gain accountability.

Text me your questions or comments!

Hey creative entrepreneur—does SEO feel confusing, overwhelming, or just plain impossible to figure out? You’re not alone. That’s why I created the AI SEO Foundations course, powered by CrystalGPT: your personal AI SEO coach designed for busy, creative business owners like you.

Crystal GPT walks you through what matters most for your website. Head to SEOin7days.com (with a 7!) and get started today—let’s make your brand easy to find and impossible to ignore.

Does SEO feel confusing, overwhelming, or just plain impossible to figure out? You’re not alone. That’s why I created the AI SEO Foundations course, powered by Crystal GPT: your personal AI SEO coach designed for busy, creative business owners like you.

Ditch the overwhelm and discover what SEO can do for your business! Head to SEOin7days.com (with the number 7!) and get started today—let’s make your brand easy to find and impossible to ignore.

Support the show

Want to follow up on what you've heard? Search the podcast!

AFFILIATE LINKS:
Start your Shopify Store!
Get SurferSEO!

Metricool (to be everywhere online, you NEED a social media scheduler!)

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 (Crystal Waddell) sit down with personal brand strategist Dianne Wilson to talk about all things branding, storytelling, and SEO. 

Key Takeaways:

• Authenticity Sells: Embracing your quirks, imperfections, and real stories resonates with audiences and helps create lasting connections.
• SEO Loves Stories: Integrating stories into your brand increases discoverability while naturally incorporating SEO-friendly keywords.
• Target Audience Awareness: Identifying and speaking directly to your ideal audience ensures you attract people who genuinely resonate with your message.
• Visibility Beyond the Screen: In-person experiences, like events or workshops, can deepen brand loyalty and expand visibility beyond digital platforms.
• Content Optimization 101: From headers to keywords, learn how to craft technically optimized content that feels true to you.

Episode Highlights:

• "Authenticity isn't just showing your best self—it's sharing your vulnerabilities. That's what builds real connections."
• "You don't need to serve everyone; define who you want to reach and speak directly to them."
• "SEO and storytelling are like peanut butter and jelly—they’re best together!"

Listener Action Items:

1. Take Stock of Your Story: Identify personal stories that shaped your perspective and find ways to integrate them into your brand.
2. Embrace Vulnerability: Share something personal in your next post or email. Authenticity builds trust and fosters connection.
3. Target Your Ideal Audience: Write down key traits of your ideal audience and use them to shape your content.
4. Optimize Your Content: Use headers, keywords, and descriptive phrases to improve SEO while keeping it true to your voice.
5. Explore Beehive for Newsletters: Consider Beehive’s SEO-friendly platform to expand your newsletter’s reach and visibility.

Connect with Dianne:

Text me your questions or comments!

Hey creative entrepreneur—does SEO feel confusing, overwhelming, or just plain impossible to figure out? You’re not alone. That’s why I created the AI SEO Foundations course, powered by CrystalGPT: your personal AI SEO coach designed for busy, creative business owners like you.

Crystal GPT walks you through what matters most for your website. Head to SEOin7days.com (with a 7!) and get started today—let’s make your brand easy to find and impossible to ignore.

Does SEO feel confusing, overwhelming, or just plain impossible to figure out? You’re not alone. That’s why I created the AI SEO Foundations course, powered by Crystal GPT: your personal AI SEO coach designed for busy, creative business owners like you.

Ditch the overwhelm and discover what SEO can do for your business! Head to SEOin7days.com (with the number 7!) and get started today—let’s make your brand easy to find and impossible to ignore.

Support the show

Want to follow up on what you've heard? Search the podcast!

AFFILIATE LINKS:
Start your Shopify Store!
Get SurferSEO!

Metricool (to be everywhere online, you NEED a social media scheduler!)

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 sit down with e-commerce SEO expert Freddie Chatt. Freddie shares valuable insights from his journey into SEO, emphasizing key strategies for e-commerce success, including optimizing collection pages, managing conversion rates, and strategic link building. 

Key Takeaways

• Collection Pages Drive Commercial Traffic: Freddie explains that optimizing collection pages is crucial for e-commerce sites.
• Navigating Seasonality in E-Commerce: Freddie discusses how planning inventory and budgeting based on seasonality allows businesses to capitalize on peak sales periods effectively.
• Product-Led Link Building: Using gift guides and product-specific outreach as link-building strategies can secure high-quality backlinks from reputable publications.
• Optimizing Conversion Rates by Page Type: Freddie suggests tracking conversion rates for specific page types.
• Leveraging Keyword Clustering Tools for SEO: Freddie recommends tools like Keyword Insights to streamline keyword clustering.

Listener Action Items

1. Evaluate Collection Page SEO: If you run an e-commerce site, assess the SEO on your collection pages, making sure they include targeted keywords for your products.
2. Use Keyword Clustering Tools: Try a keyword clustering tool like Keyword Insights to organize your keywords by intent, minimizing risk of keyword cannibalization.
3. Plan Seasonally: For seasonal businesses, consider Freddie’s approach of adjusting budgets, running sales, and optimizing site performance during off-peak times.
4. Focus on Link Building Opportunities: Seek out niche-specific gift guides and reach out to the authors to feature your products, potentially boosting your site's domain authority.

Guest and Resource Links

• Freddie Chatt on LinkedIn: Freddie Chatt LinkedIn
• Freddie’s E-commerce SEO Boot Camp:

Text me your questions or comments!

Hey creative entrepreneur—does SEO feel confusing, overwhelming, or just plain impossible to figure out? You’re not alone. That’s why I created the AI SEO Foundations course, powered by CrystalGPT: your personal AI SEO coach designed for busy, creative business owners like you.

Crystal GPT walks you through what matters most for your website. Head to SEOin7days.com (with a 7!) and get started today—let’s make your brand easy to find and impossible to ignore.

Does SEO feel confusing, overwhelming, or just plain impossible to figure out? You’re not alone. That’s why I created the AI SEO Foundations course, powered by Crystal GPT: your personal AI SEO coach designed for busy, creative business owners like you.

Ditch the overwhelm and discover what SEO can do for your business! Head to SEOin7days.com (with the number 7!) and get started today—let’s make your brand easy to find and impossible to ignore.

Support the show

Want to follow up on what you've heard? Search the podcast!

AFFILIATE LINKS:
Start your Shopify Store!
Get SurferSEO!

Metricool (to be everywhere online, you NEED a social media scheduler!)

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, host Crystal Waddell (that's me!) sits down with PPC strategist Charley Brennand to explore the role of storytelling and empathy in digital marketing. 

Charley shares her journey of overcoming underestimation and the valuable lessons she’s learned about making paid advertising accessible, especially for those considered “underdogs.” 

Listen as Charley dives into how she approaches PPC with a balance of technical acumen and creativity, why storytelling can be a game-changer in client communication, and essential steps to ensure a website is ready for PPC investment. 

Key Takeaways:

1. The Power of Storytelling in PPC: Charley emphasizes that storytelling in marketing, especially in technical fields like PPC, can make a significant difference in client communication and results.
2. Recognizing and Overcoming Personal Limiting Beliefs: Charley discusses her own experiences of being underestimated and how she uses those lessons to inspire others to shoot for more in their careers and businesses.
3. Fundamentals of PPC Success: A good website is essential for PPC success. Charley advises fixing issues like slow loading times and poor user experiences before investing in paid ads.
4. Understanding Platform Audiences: Each social platform has unique user behaviors and buyer intent. Charley advises knowing these distinctions to maximize ad spend.
5. Budgeting for Ads with Realistic Expectations: She shares a simple approach to calculating PPC budgets, factoring in search demand, cost-per-click, and average click-through rates.

Episode Highlights:

• “Courage isn’t the absence of fear; it’s pursuing things despite being scared.”
• “If your website’s not user-friendly, don’t waste your money on paid ads—it’s setting yourself up for failure.”

Listener Action Items:

1. Evaluate Your Website for PPC Readiness: Before launching a paid campaign, ensure your website offers a seamless user experience.

Text me your questions or comments!

Hey creative entrepreneur—does SEO feel confusing, overwhelming, or just plain impossible to figure out? You’re not alone. That’s why I created the AI SEO Foundations course, powered by CrystalGPT: your personal AI SEO coach designed for busy, creative business owners like you.

Crystal GPT walks you through what matters most for your website. Head to SEOin7days.com (with a 7!) and get started today—let’s make your brand easy to find and impossible to ignore.

Does SEO feel confusing, overwhelming, or just plain impossible to figure out? You’re not alone. That’s why I created the AI SEO Foundations course, powered by Crystal GPT: your personal AI SEO coach designed for busy, creative business owners like you.

Ditch the overwhelm and discover what SEO can do for your business! Head to SEOin7days.com (with the number 7!) and get started today—let’s make your brand easy to find and impossible to ignore.

Support the show

Want to follow up on what you've heard? Search the podcast!

AFFILIATE LINKS:
Start your Shopify Store!
Get SurferSEO!

Metricool (to be everywhere online, you NEED a social media scheduler!)

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, Crystal Waddell is joined by Simon Lesser, co-founder and CEO of Dragon Metrics, a powerful all-in-one SEO software platform. 

Simon shares the journey behind Dragon Metrics, and explains how DM competes with larger tools like Ahrefs and SEMrush.

Key Takeaways:

1. Founding Story of Dragon Metrics: Simon Lesser "quit his way to the top" by pivoting from an SEO agency to creating a top-tier SEO tool.
2. SEO Tool Competitiveness: Dragon Metrics competes with major players like SEMrush and Ahrefs by offering a product-focused, cost-effective solution with unparalleled customer support.
3. Changes in SEO Industry: The past 18-24 months have been the most turbulent in SEO history, with shifts in algorithms, AI advancements, and economic factors impacting the industry.
4. The Future of Search: AI is dramatically shaping the future of search and content creation, with new challenges and opportunities for SEO professionals.
5. Actionable Advice for Small Businesses: Play to your strengths by doing what others can't. Focus on offering unique, non-scalable services to build your brand.

Memorable Quotes:

• "I quit my way to the top. Every time I quit, the job kept getting better and better." - Simon Lesser
• "SEO tools are fully complementary to Google Search Console. They fill in the gaps, offering insights Google can't provide." - Simon Lesser
• "You can create the best product in the world, but if you don't tell people about it, you'll fail as a business." - Simon Lesser

Listener Action Items:

1. Explore Dragon Metrics: Sign up for a 30-day free trial of Dragon Metrics to see how it can help improve your SEO strategy.
2. Take a Product Tour: Schedule a demo session to understand how Dragon Metrics can specifically cater to your business needs.
3. Focus on What You Do Best: Identify services or features you can offer that larger competitors can't

Text me your questions or comments!

Hey creative entrepreneur—does SEO feel confusing, overwhelming, or just plain impossible to figure out? You’re not alone. That’s why I created the AI SEO Foundations course, powered by CrystalGPT: your personal AI SEO coach designed for busy, creative business owners like you.

Crystal GPT walks you through what matters most for your website. Head to SEOin7days.com (with a 7!) and get started today—let’s make your brand easy to find and impossible to ignore.

Does SEO feel confusing, overwhelming, or just plain impossible to figure out? You’re not alone. That’s why I created the AI SEO Foundations course, powered by Crystal GPT: your personal AI SEO coach designed for busy, creative business owners like you.

Ditch the overwhelm and discover what SEO can do for your business! Head to SEOin7days.com (with the number 7!) and get started today—let’s make your brand easy to find and impossible to ignore.

Support the show

Want to follow up on what you've heard? Search the podcast!

AFFILIATE LINKS:
Start your Shopify Store!
Get SurferSEO!

Metricool (to be everywhere online, you NEED a social media scheduler!)

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!