In this episode, Steve and Barry discuss the latest developments in AI search, Google's updates, and how publishers can adapt to the evolving landscape. They explore strategies for managing brand presence in AI overviews, the impact of Google's guidance on content creation, and practical steps for publishers to protect their content and reputation.

key topics
AI search landscape and recent updates
Google's guidance on generative AI content and effort
Managing brand presence in AI overviews
Publisher options for opting out of AI summaries
Implications of Google's updates for news publishers
Strategies for maintaining visibility and traffic
Understanding analytics and traffic data in AI context
Preparing for potential Google core updates
Balancing AI and traditional search results
Building unique, high-quality content for long-term success

00:00 Introduction and Beer Talk
02:53 AI Overviews and Branded Searches
05:48 Google's Guidance on AI Content
11:50 Potential Core Update and Its Implications
17:47 AI Mode and Publisher Considerations
26:32 Understanding Business Decisions in AI Contexts
27:59 Navigating AI Access and Visibility
30:10 The Unique Challenges for Publishers
32:11 The Importance of Original Content
35:30 Measuring Dependency on Google
37:21 The Dangers of Misinterpreting Data
40:39 Building Direct Relationships with Audiences
42:29 Long-Term Value Over Short-Term Gains
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Resources: https://www.publishingstrategies.co.uk/p/your-ai-reputation-is-being-built-offsite

Connect with Barry & Steve
SEO Summit 2026 - https://newsseo.io
Barry's Consultancy service: https://www.polemicdigital.com/
Steve's Consultancy service: https://www.stevenwilsonbeales.com/

In this episode, Barry and Steve explore the latest developments in Google Search Console, AI content generation, and competitor research, emphasising the importance of human insight and strategic thinking in digital marketing.

Key topics
- Google Search Console updates and features
- AI-generated content and its impact on SEO
- Social media visibility in Google Search
- Competitor research strategies
- The role of human insight in digital marketing

Takeaways
- Google now allows social media accounts to be added to Search Console, providing new visibility metrics.
- AI tools can enhance content creation but should be used thoughtfully to avoid mediocrity.
- Content with merit should be engaged with regardless of whether it is AI-generated or human-created.
- Search Console data is indicative and should be used as a trend tool, not an exact measure.
- Competitor research is most effective when combined with a deep understanding of your own product and strategic goals.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Beer Talk
02:09 Announcements on AI Slop Functionality in Social Platforms
05:21 The Nuances of AI Content and Platform Flagging
08:30 The Creative and Strategic Value of Human Writing
12:00 Google Search Console's New Social Media Insights
14:01 Why Google Is Expanding Its Web Presence Data
17:29 The Impact of Google Search Console on Creators
20:49 AI Visibility Data in Search Console
24:15 Using Data to Inform Content Strategy
28:01 Google Search Profiles and Future Trends
31:51 Understanding Google's Data and Its Limitations
34:06 The Value of Competitor Research and Strategic Insights
37:24 Experience Your Competitors' Websites Firsthand
40:07 The Role of Risk-Taking and Innovation in SEO
43:24 The Limitations of Keyword Gap Analysis
44:58 The Importance of Human Judgment in SEO Strategy
45:50 Closing Remarks and Final Thoughts
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Resources: https://www.publishingstrategies.co.uk/p/competitor-research-starts-with-your-own-product

Connect with Barry & Steve
SEO Summit 2026 - https://newsseo.io
Barry's Consultancy service: https://www.polemicdigital.com/
Steve's Consultancy service: https://www.stevenwilsonbeales.com/

In this episode, Steve and Barry Adams discuss Google's new audience loyalty ecosystem, the impact of AI on search and publisher traffic, and practical strategies for publishers to adapt to the evolving digital landscape.

- Google's new audience loyalty features (preferred sources, follow, subscription linking)
- Impact of AI on search traffic and publisher visibility
- Strategies for publishers to build and retain loyal audiences
- Prompt tracking and AI visibility challenges and opportunities
- The importance of quality content and user experience in a changing landscape

00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Topics
02:58 Google's New Publisher Engagement Strategies
06:00 The Impact of AI on Traffic and Content
09:11 Optimizing User Experience and Conversion Rates
12:10 Insights from the Glide Event
15:09 SEO's Role in Audience Engagement
17:54 The Future of Content and Publisher Strategies
22:58 The Impact of Zero-Click Searches
26:02 Google's Dominance in Traffic Generation
28:56 Trust in Information Sources
36:03 Navigating Prompt Tracking in AI
48:10 The Future of News and Editorial SEO

Resources
https://www.seoforgooglenews.com/p/google-audience-loyalty-ecosystem
https://www.publishingstrategies.co.uk/p/ai-visibility-and-prompt-tracking
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Connect with Barry & Steve
SEO Summit 2026 - https://newsseo.io
Barry's Consultancy service: https://www.polemicdigital.com/
Steve's Consultancy service: https://www.stevenwilsonbeales.com/