The Simple and Smart SEO Show

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: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.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.Offline Activities Boost SEO:Brand awareness through local events and networking enhances online authority.Multiple touchpoints, both online and offline, strengthen customer trust.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.Conversion-Driven Metrics:Traffic isn’t everything; analyze how it converts into leads and sales.✨ Memorable Quotes:Sarah 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."Sarah Jensen: "Focus on quality content because anyone can do quantity now."📌 Listener Action Items:Audit your website for content quality—prioritize human voice and creativity.Track conversion metrics to ensure you're attracting the right audience.Explore ways to build offline brand awareness (e.g., local events or networking).Optimize your writing style for conversational and voice search trends.Start building or growing your email list to maintain a reliable audience base.📲 Connect with the Guests:Sarah Jensen: Principal at Brighter Messaging | LinkedInShea Karssing: Copywriter and SEO Strategist | LinkedInSubscribe to the Brighter Messaging newsletter Check out  Ann Handley's Total Annarchy newsletter Send me a text!Support the showWant to follow up on what you've heard? Search the podcast!Join the SEO SquadApply to be my podcast guest! 🎙️ Don't forget to Put your pitch topic in the subject line! AFFILIATE LINKS:Start your Shopify Store!Get SurferSEO!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: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.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.Authenticity Matters: Sharing your challenges and failures authentically—especially on platforms like LinkedIn—can foster trust and boost visibility.Plan for the Future: Use current disruptions as an opportunity to reassess your strategies and align them with long-term goals.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:Reflect and Adapt: Evaluate how diversified your business strategy is and identify areas to reduce reliance on single platforms.Leverage AI Tools: Experiment with tools like ChatGPT for brainstorming and content planning while infusing your unique voice.Share Your Story: Post on social media about your challenges or lessons learned to boost visibility and engagement.Join the SEO Squad: Sign up for Crystal’s SEO squad for ongoing support and resources to grow your businSend me a text!Support the showWant to follow up on what you've heard? Search the podcast!Join the SEO SquadApply to be my podcast guest! 🎙️ Don't forget to Put your pitch topic in the subject line! AFFILIATE LINKS:Start your Shopify Store!Get SurferSEO!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: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.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.The Value of Human Connection: Authentic human interaction and unique perspectives build trust and differentiate your brand in an increasingly AI-dominated space.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 JensenListener Action Items: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.Invest in Human Creativity: Prioritize hiring professionals for critical content like website copy and brand design.Focus on Authenticity: Share your unique story and value proposition to stand out from AI-generated content.Plan for 2025: Develop a visibility strategy emphasizing human connection, tailored messaging, and high-quality, original content.Links Mentioned in Episode:Connect with Shea Karssing on LinkedInConnect with Sara Jensen on LinkedInLearn more about Brighter Messaging Send me a text!Support the showWant to follow up on what you've heard? Search the podcast!Join the SEO SquadApply to be my podcast guest! 🎙️ Don't forget to Put your pitch topic in the subject line! AFFILIATE LINKS:Start your Shopify Store!Get SurferSEO!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:Evaluate Your Marketing Strategy: Align your efforts with your business goals instead of being distracted by trendy tactics.Ruthless Prioritization: Focus on what truly moves the needle and organize your projects effectively.Expand Your Network: Strengthen relationships and explore new opportunities by joining local groups or reconnecting with old contacts.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:Focus on ruthless prioritization by outlining your most impactful goals.Reach out to someone in your network this week to strengthen your connections.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!Send me a text!Support the showWant to follow up on what you've heard? Search the podcast!Join the SEO SquadApply to be my podcast guest! 🎙️ Don't forget to Put your pitch topic in the subject line! AFFILIATE LINKS:Start your Shopify Store!Get SurferSEO!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:Strategy Over Tactics: Understand the "why" behind your marketing campaigns to ensure all efforts align with business objectives.Ruthless Prioritization: Focus on the most impactful projects and eliminate distractions, even if it means "killing your darlings."Betting on Yourself: Building confidence and leveraging personal strengths is essential for long-term success.Building Owned Assets: Ensure your business has a strong foundation of owned channels like websites and email lists to withstand platform changes.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: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.Practice Ruthless Prioritization: List your ongoing projects and campaigns; determine which ones bring the most value and cut the rest.Expand Your Network: Reconnect with dormant professional contacts or join a local business group to enhance visibility and support.Audit Your Digital Footprint: Ensure your brand is visible across multiple channels and claim your name on emerging platforms.Contact RJ for Strategy Support: Visit MeFirst.Marketing or connect with RJ on LinkedIn for personalized guidance.Send me a text!Support the showWant to follow up on what you've heard? Search the podcast!Join the SEO SquadApply to be my podcast guest! 🎙️ Don't forget to Put your pitch topic in the subject line! AFFILIATE LINKS:Start your Shopify Store!Get SurferSEO!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: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.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.Community is Key:Building Junction Jack took resilience, networking, and leaning on supportive groups—proving that no entrepreneur succeeds alone.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 LongListener Action Items:Check Out Junction Jack: Visit junctionjack.co to learn more and sign up for updates.Prep for Voice Search: Start optimizing your website’s content for natural, conversational queries.Follow Stephanie: Connect with her on LinkedIn or email her at stephanie@mrsseo.co to stay updated.Send me a text!Support the showWant to follow up on what you've heard? Search the podcast!Join the SEO SquadApply to be my podcast guest! 🎙️ Don't forget to Put your pitch topic in the subject line! AFFILIATE LINKS:Start your Shopify Store!Get SurferSEO!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:Networking Pays Off: Events like BrightonSEO offer opportunities to meet industry leaders, forge new connections, and gain valuable insights.Conference Hacks: Joining hotel rewards programs can save time and elevate your travel experience—literally!Be Inspired: The optimism and future-focused ideas from BrightonSEO’s speakers are a reminder to embrace change in SEO and digital marketing.Prepare Strategically: Taking time to plan ahead—whether it’s creating a strategy day or exploring conference apps—can help you maximize value.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:Explore Conferences: Consider attending BrightonSEO or a similar event to level up your knowledge and networking game.Strategize Your Takeaways: After attending a conference, spend a day reflecting and creating actionable strategies for the future.Connect on LinkedIn: Reach out to me to chat about your BrightonSEO experience or ask questions about attending next year.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!Send me a text!Support the showWant to follow up on what you've heard? Search the podcast!Join the SEO SquadApply to be my podcast guest! 🎙️ Don't forget to Put your pitch topic in the subject line! AFFILIATE LINKS:Start your Shopify Store!Get SurferSEO!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:Streamline Business Management: Tools like HoneyBook ensure your client communications and contracts stay organized and professional.Boost SEO Performance: Leverage SurferSEO and Dragon Metrics (Use code WADDELL for 5% off!) for advanced content optimization.Enhance Creativity with AI: ChatGPT supports brainstorming and content creation for efficiency and inspiration.Build Impactful Websites: Platforms like Shopify and Wix cater to eCommerce and customized designs for any business need.Optimize Communication & Podcasting: Tools like Google Meet and Squadcast.fm ensure smooth virtual collaboration and high-quality recordings.Simplify Editing & Marketing: Descript, Metricool, TubeBuddy, and Tailwind streamline content creation, scheduling, and audience engagement.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 Items:Explore the tools mentioned in this episode and consider which ones fit your business needs.Take advantage of exclusive offers, like SurferSEO’s Black Friday deal or Tailwind’s Ghostwriter credits, to save while leveling up your strategySend me a text!Support the showWant to follow up on what you've heard? Search the podcast!Join the SEO SquadApply to be my podcast guest! 🎙️ Don't forget to Put your pitch topic in the subject line! AFFILIATE LINKS:Start your Shopify Store!Get SurferSEO!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:PR & SEO Synergy: PR features not only enhance credibility but also boost SEO through high-quality backlinks from reputable publications.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.Affiliate Marketing Insights: Many online gift guides and articles are affiliate-driven. Understand how to leverage this model to get featured.The Long Game of Visibility: Both PR and SEO are long-term strategies that compound over time, building authority and trust for your brand.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 WaddellListener Action Items:Dedicate 1-2 hours a week to work on your PR strategy, such as pitching to publications or podcasts.Research affiliate models and consider platforms like ShareASale or Skimlinks to support your product visibility.Use tools like Ahrefs to track backlinks and understand the impact of your media features.Identify your business goals and align your PR and SEO strategies to support them.Join PR-focused communities or challenges to refine your pitching skills and gain accountability.Send me a text!Support the showWant to follow up on what you've heard? Search the podcast!Join the SEO SquadApply to be my podcast guest! 🎙️ Don't forget to Put your pitch topic in the subject line! AFFILIATE LINKS:Start your Shopify Store!Get SurferSEO!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:Take Stock of Your Story: Identify personal stories that shaped your perspective and find ways to integrate them into your brand.Embrace Vulnerability: Share something personal in your next post or email. Authenticity builds trust and fosters connection.Target Your Ideal Audience: Write down key traits of your ideal audience and use them to shape your content.Optimize Your Content: Use headers, keywords, and descriptive phrases to improve SEO while keeping it true to your voice.Explore Beehive for Newsletters: Consider Beehive’s SEO-friendly platform to expand your newsletter’s reach and visibility.Connect with Dianne:InstagramCrown to Empire Masterclass: Dianne’s free live masterclass designed to help entrepreneurs build standout personal brands. Join to learn her framework for overcoming comparison and posting paralysis, and to create content that aligns with your values.Send me a text!Support the showWant to follow up on what you've heard? Search the podcast!Join the SEO SquadApply to be my podcast guest! 🎙️ Don't forget to Put your pitch topic in the subject line! AFFILIATE LINKS:Start your Shopify Store!Get SurferSEO!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!