In the first episode of 2026, hosts Jack Chambers-Ward and Mark Williams-Cook discuss the major SEO news stories of 2025 and make predictions for the upcoming year.
They reflect on their predictions from last year, including the impact of zero-click searches on organic click-through rates, the rise of video and visual search elements, and the importance of community and real marketing.
The episode also covers Google's AI mode rollout, the challenges posed by automated advertising and privacy laws, and potential advancements in agentic search and browser-based AI.
00:00 Introduction and New Year Greetings
00:33 SEO Predictions for 2026
01:42 Zero Click Searches and AI Summarization
07:40 Trends in Video and Visual Search
12:30 The Return of Real Marketing
20:39 Biggest News Stories of 2025
22:32 AI Mode Rollout Timeline
23:30 Personal Use of AI Tools
25:26 Global Expansion of AI Mode
25:46 AI Mode and Search Functionality Predictions
27:11 Impact of AI on Click-Through Rates
31:12 Predictions for 2026
32:34 Automation and Data in SEO
35:37 Challenges with Scraping and Indexing
40:39 Agentic Search and Browser Integration
44:52 Concluding Thoughts and Future Episodes
In the final episode of Search with Candour for 2025, Jack Chambers-Ward is joined by Greg Heilers to delve into the evolving landscape of digital PR. They discuss the current state and future of HARO (Help A Reporter Out), the impact of AI and LLMs on SEO and PR, and the growing influence of brand mentions in the age of global SEO.
Greg also shares insights about the challenges and opportunities in the industry, particularly in the Chinese market. Join us for an engaging discussion on how to stay ahead in the ever-changing world of digital PR and SEO.
Follow Greg
JollySEO: https://jollyseo.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregheilers/
Jolly SEO’s TL;DR: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLL3o9O1rRBcLKq-hSgerIS8i47HWdOAii
Website: https://gregheilers.com/
Greg’s recommendations
00:00 Introduction and Opening Remarks
01:14 The Evolution of HARO and Digital PR
04:09 The Role of AI and LLMs in SEO and PR
07:15 Challenges and Strategies in Link Building
12:38 Globalisation and Language Barriers in SEO
18:18 Future Trends and Industry Insights
37:36 SEO Relevancy and Authority
38:52 Pitch Twisting and Reactive PR
39:50 GEO Relevancy and Brand Mentions
46:23 Client Communication and Expertise Sharing
54:07 Weird and Wild Link Building Requests
58:55 Actionable Recommendations and Tools
01:02:55 Exploring Chinese Culture and Final Thoughts
Jack Chambers-Ward is joined by Abi Bennetts to discuss the evolution of digital PR, the importance of brand building, and the impact of AI and LLMs on the PR landscape.
Together, they explore strategies for creating authentic, relevant content and the significance of measuring brand sentiment and awareness. Abi also shares insights on how startups can leverage digital PR effectively and predicts the integration of digital and traditional PR in the future.
Follow Abi
Website: https://www.launchpr.co.uk/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/abibennetts710/
00:00 Why brand is the future of digital PR
01:09 Introduction
05:34 Welcome Abi Bennetts
07:31 The Evolution of Digital PR and Brand Strategy
10:05 The Role of AI and Authenticity in Digital PR
12:36 Combining Traditional and Digital PR Tactics
19:06 The Impact of Brand Sentiment and Trust
33:04 Utilising Experts for Authentic Brand Building
34:22 Balancing Virality and Planned Campaigns
35:36 Holistic Approach to Digital PR
36:18 SEO Integration in PR Strategies
37:15 Defining Brand Identity and Messaging
40:20 Advice for Digital PR Beginners
47:25 Measuring Success in Digital PR
53:16 Future of Digital PR and AI
56:30 Final Thoughts and Recommendations
Jack Chambers-Ward is joined by Amanda King for an in-depth conversation about the evolving landscape of SEO and the implications of AI-generated content.
Amanda shares insights from her 15 years in the industry, discussing the challenges of maintaining relevant, high-quality content in a world where AI is increasingly prevalent. The episode covers a range of topics, including content consolidation, Google's move away from lexical search, and Amanda’s new tool - Topic Compass.
Jack and Amanda also touch on the importance of balancing traditional SEO practices with modern digital marketing strategies to stay ahead in 2026.
00:00 Introduction
01:39 Welcome to Search With Candour
04:35 Interview with Amanda King
07:16 The Evolution of SEO and Content Strategies
17:40 Challenges and Future of SEO
34:21 Exploring Topic Compass and Content Relevance
51:49 The Evolution of Google's Search Technology
55:00 The Impact of AI on SEO and PPC
56:11 Exploring Paris: Beyond the Usual Attractions
01:01:35 The Importance of Updating Existing Content
01:03:38 Tools and Strategies for Modern SEO
01:08:31 Fun Recommendations: Movies, Games, and More
01:23:29 Upcoming Episodes and Future Plans
Follow Amanda:
⭐Website: https://floq.co/
⭐Topic Compass: https://topiccompass.io
⭐LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amandaecking/
⭐Amanda's writing for SEL: https://searchengineland.com/author/amanda-king
⭐Amanda's speakerdeck: https://speakerdeck.com/amandafloq
Links to resources/references:
🎧Amanda’s previous episode: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J3fWiAJwcO8
🎧Discussing MUVERA with Egor Golovin: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=STcV-Y3KTAs
📄Google’s MUVERA: https://research.google/blog/muvera-making-multi-vector-retrieval-as-fast-as-single-vector-search/
Join Jack Chambers-Ward in this episode of Search With Candour as he discusses the critical difference between strategy and tactics in SEO with special guest Derek Hobson from Brain Labs.
Jack and Derek get super nerdy using everything from The Avengers to adult diapers to explore how to effectively structure your thinking around SEO strategies and tactics. They also discuss the importance of ongoing testing, adapting to industry changes like AI advancements, and building strong off-page SEO.
Follow Derek:
Resources:
00:00 Introduction
01:38 Welcome to Search With Candour
03:10 Guest Introduction: Derek Hobson from Brain Labs
04:14 Defining Strategy and Tactics in SEO
08:05 The Avengers Analogy: Strategy vs. Tactics
21:42 SEO Strategy Development Process
24:46 Marvel vs. DC: A Lesson in Strategy
34:31 Unexpected Marketing Wins: Grommet Mug Case Study
37:52 Client Strategy and Adaptation
38:52 Creative Marketing Ideas
40:54 The Importance of Brand Visibility
44:07 SEO and Content Strategy
48:55 Adapting to Industry Changes
59:16 Off-Page SEO and Influencer Marketing
01:08:36 Final Thoughts and Recommendations
In this episode, Jack Chambers-Ward interviews Ade Holder, frontman of Phinius Gage and owner of 427 Marketing. They explore how punk values can influence business practices, the challenges of maintaining authenticity, and the importance of constructive capitalism.
Ade shares insights from his experience in marketing and as a musician, highlighting the intersection between creativity and analytical thinking. Tune in for discussions on music, SEO, client relations, and actionable tips for blending personal passions with professional life.
Follow Ade
Recommendations
00:00 Balancing Punk Rock Ethics with Marketing
00:55 Introduction
01:25 Meet Ade Holder: Punk Rock Legend and Marketing Expert
03:07 The Intersection of Punk Rock and Business Ethics
03:28 Ade Holder's Journey: From Punk Rock to Marketing
04:46 Authenticity and Business: A Personal Journey
07:25 Navigating Client Choices and Ethical Dilemmas
18:21 The Creative and Analytical Balance in SEO
37:32 The Role of Ethics in Modern SEO
43:00 Honouring SEO Pioneers
43:20 The Importance of Testing Hypotheses
44:10 Client Collaboration and Experimentation
45:28 SEO Testing and Real-World Results
47:01 Navigating SEO Challenges
48:06 Understanding Client Issues
50:59 Technical SEO Insights
54:05 The Gap Between Cutting-Edge and Basic SEO
57:43 The Importance of Authenticity in Networking
01:01:12 Balancing Band Life and Business
01:04:18 Recommendations
In this episode of Search with Candour, Ben Goodey, founder of Spicy Margarita, joins Jack to discuss how to create revenue-driven SEO strategies.
The discussion explores how effective audience research impacts conversion rates, differentiating between top-of-funnel and bottom-of-funnel content, and the evolving role of SEO in the age of AI.
Ben shares his insights on creating revenue-driving strategies and the importance of client communication in achieving long-term success.
Follow Ben:
Resources:
00:00 How to make money from SEO
00:56 Introduction
02:04 Welcome, Ben Goodey
02:51 The Importance of Revenue-Driven SEO
09:39 Understanding Audience and Customer Research
13:10 The Role of Content in Building Trust
17:06 Leveraging Customer Insights for Effective SEO
29:39 Competitor Analysis and SEO Strategy
35:48 SERP Insights and Competitor Awareness
37:15 The Importance of Tracking Conversions
41:29 Integrating SEO with Broader Marketing Strategies
51:13 The Impact of AI on SEO Strategies
58:33 Final Thoughts and Recommendations
In this week's episode of Search With Candour, host Jack Chambers-Ward is joined by Leah Hart to explore the future of sustainable marketing in 2025.
They delve into the importance of both environmentally and personally sustainable practices. Topics include the pitfalls of greenwashing, the energy costs of AI tools like ChatGPT, and effective ways to avoid burnout and maintain personal well-being in the industry.
Follow Leah:
Recommendations
00:00 Introduction
04:43 Welcome Leah Hart
07:08 Defining Sustainable Marketing
08:01 Challenges and Strategies in Sustainable Marketing
08:39 AI and Sustainability in Marketing
12:24 Identifying Genuine Sustainable Practices
22:06 Balancing Sustainability and Performance
23:35 Hybrid Work Models and Sustainability
27:12 Measuring Success in Sustainable Campaigns
29:35 The Role of AI in Sustainable Marketing
39:44 Personal Sustainability and Career Longevity
42:52 Balancing Work and Personal Life
44:00 Implementing Quitting Time and AI Tools
45:24 Building Team Relationships and Communication
49:52 Understanding Team Dynamics and Personality Types
58:04 Advice for New Marketers
01:05:50 Personal Habits for Reducing Stress
01:10:17 Recommendations and Conclusion
Join Jack Chambers-Ward as he sits down with the award-winning brand consultant and designer Jacob Cass.
Jacob recounts the harrowing experience of losing 95% of his site traffic and the strategies he employed for recovery.
Jacob and Jack discuss practical brand-building exercises, the relevance of maintaining consistency across different platforms, and the indispensable tools and techniques to thrive in the ever-evolving world of SEO and digital marketing in 2025.
Whether you're a solopreneur or a seasoned business owner, this episode is packed with invaluable insights and actionable advice that can help you manoeuvre through the complexities of digital branding and SEO.
Follow Jacob
Recommendations
00:00 The Rollercoaster of SEO and Personal Branding
01:12 Introduction
03:24 Jacob Cass's Journey and Career Highlights
06:33 The Impact of SEO Changes on Just Creative
12:11 Adapting to SEO Challenges and Shifting Strategies
24:03 The Importance of Personal Branding in 2025
30:59 Building a Resilient Brand
34:17 Client's SEO Struggles and Simple Solutions
36:19 The Power of Word of Mouth in Business
38:06 Consistency in Branding Across Platforms
39:26 Balancing Multiple Roles and Audiences
44:11 The Caveman Test and Simplifying Your Brand Message
52:12 Experimentation and Creativity in Branding
54:38 Final Thoughts and Recommendations
In this episode of Search With Candour, host Jack Chambers-Ward discusses the impact of Google's MUVERA (multi-vector retrieval system) on link building with guest Egor Golovin, Chief Commercial Officer at Serpzilla.
Together, they explore how MUVERA recontextualises backlinks, emphasising the importance of context, relevance, and trust over raw volume.
Egor shares his insights on current and future link building strategies, the role of AI-generated content, the significance of brand mentions, and the gradual shift towards more complex backlink strategies.
Whether you're a seasoned SEO professional or new to digital marketing, this conversation offers valuable insights for refining your link building approach in the evolving digital landscape.
Follow Egor
Resources and recommendations
00:00 Introduction
01:10 Welcome to Search With Candour
01:22 Introducing Egor Golovin
01:52 The Impact of MUVERA on Link Building
02:42 Podcast Updates and Viewer Engagement
04:07 What is MUVERA?
11:18 The Role of AI in Content and Link Building
12:25 Guest Posting and Digital PR in the Era of MUVERA
19:49 The Value of Brand Mentions and No-Follow Links
27:23 Link Protection Strategies
29:35 The Future of Backlink Strategies
30:14 Parasite SEO and Its Decline
33:13 Emerging Backlink Strategies
39:31 The Role of AI in SEO
42:58 Actionable SEO Tips
45:57 Recommendations
51:38 Conclusion
Join us LIVE from Brighton as the teams from @SEOMindsetPodcast and Search with Candour come together for an engaging and informative podcast.
In this special episode, the trio of hosts explore the importance of intentional social connections for career progression, and practical tips on maintaining good social health.
The episode also features insights from the audience, real-life stories, and a detailed analysis of Google's take on 'social health.’
Don't miss out on expert advice, heartfelt stories, and actionable tips designed to enhance your personal and professional growth in the SEO world!
SISTRIX is the all-in-one SEO toolbox for those who want to succeed on Google, Amazon and Facebook. With SISTRIX's market-leading tools, you can optimise your website according to the latest Google guidelines, track competitors on Amazon and easily generate and perform research across TikTok, Instagram and YouTube.
Majestic maps the web to bring you the Link Intelligence data you need to dominate your market. Established in 2004, Majestic is dedicated to serving worldwide backlink data and analysis.
Drinks sponsor - Good Signals and Whitworth
Good Signals help brands that deserve to do better online – do just that. They use what makes your business unique and interesting to help you grow online in new and exciting ways – connecting your brand with the people who matter most to you.
Whitworth SEO specialise in authentic SEO without the jargon. Just proper SEO consultancy, no fluff and purely focused on delivering return on investment from your organic channel.
00:00 Introduction and Welcome
01:21 The SEO Mindset Podcast Origins
02:33 Introducing Search with Candour
03:45 SISTRIX: How does Google define social health?
04:40 Sponsor Acknowledgements
12:10 Exploring Social Health and Loneliness
17:01 Maintaining Work-Life Synergy
27:51 Overcoming Imposter Syndrome
37:09 Choosing Your Influential Five
37:36 Using the 5-3-1 Model
39:27 Quality Time and Presence
40:13 Balancing Social Health and Solitude
42:44 Tips for Social Health
42:58 Overcoming Fear and Trying New Things
54:49 Navigating Social Interactions and Remote Work
01:00:03 Q&A and Personal Stories
01:04:51 Closing Remarks and Thank Yous
Jack Chambers-Ward dives into the evolving world of SEO, AI, and branding with guest Yordan Dimitrov, SEO Manager at Reflect Digital. They discuss the importance of brand consistency, the role of LLMs (Large Language Models) like ChatGPT in shaping user experiences, and the pivotal strategies for maintaining visibility and relevance in an ever-changing digital landscape.
If you're curious about how AI is impacting SEO or want tips on optimising your brand’s digital presence, this episode is packed with valuable insights and recommendations.
Don't miss out on Yordan's upcoming talk at Brighton SEO and the exciting discussions around these crucial topics!
Follow Yordan:
00:00 Embracing AI: The Younger Generation's Journey
01:14 Introduction to the Podcast
01:29 Interview with Yordan Dimitrov
01:41 The Importance of Brand in SEO
02:20 Upcoming Brighton SEO Event
04:15 SEO Strategies and User Behaviour
06:17 The Role of Brand and Visibility
10:05 Impact of AI on SEO Metrics
13:49 User-Generated Content and Reviews
22:21 Personalisation and AI in Search
25:14 The Future of Search and AI
31:06 Meta's AI Integration and User Consent
32:01 The Shift in Digital Marketing Metrics
33:04 The Impact of LLMs on User Conversion
34:32 E-commerce Strategies for Better User Experience
37:44 The Importance of Consistent Branding
38:39 Personalisation and Localisation in Marketing
45:55 The Role of User-Generated Content
51:31 Adapting SEO Strategies for AI and LLMs
54:17 Tool and Content Recommendations
59:43 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
In this bonus episode of Search With Candour, Jack Chambers-Ward and Mark Williams-Cook share their top recommendations for talks at the upcoming Brighton SEO conference.
Candour’s dynamic duo discusses talks that cover the value of human connection in digital PR, and explore the intricacies of AI, machine learning, and attribution models in SEO.
Whether you're attending Brighton SEO or simply interested in staying updated with the latest in the SEO world, this episode is packed with invaluable information and expert commentary.
Jack’s recommendations
Mark’s recommendations
00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview
00:38 Catching Up with Mark
02:11 Candour's Recent Projects and Developments
03:27 Upcoming BrightonSEO and Personal Updates
07:59 BrightonSEO Talk Recommendations
08:50 Mark recommends: Tom Rawle
11:27 Jack recommends: John Iwuozor
13:14 Mark recommends: Dixon Jones
17:10 Jack recommends: Yordan Dimitrov
20:04 Mark recommends: Luke Carthy
22:58 Jack recommends: Tom Capper
24:51 Mark recommends: Adam Gent
28:22 Jack recommends: Myriam Jessier
32:18 Mark recommends: Will Kennard
36:25 Jack recommends: Lazarina Stoy
38:53 Final Thoughts
In this episode of Search With Candour, Jack Chambers-Ward hosts Pablo Lopez to discuss the future of clickless SERPs and their impact on SEO.
They delve into the widespread adoption of AI in search engines like ChatGPT and Google's AI Mode, the effects on user journeys, and the shift from traditional SEO tactics to strategies focused on direct traffic and brand loyalty.
Pablo shares valuable insights on audience understanding, content strategy, and the importance of integrating SEO with other digital marketing channels.
If you're looking to stay ahead in the evolving world of SEO, this conversation is a must-watch!
Follow Pablo
Pablo’s Recommendations
00:00 Introduction
01:26 Welcome to Search With Candour
02:54 Introducing Pablo Lopez
04:02 The Future of Clickless SERPs
07:51 User Adaptation to AI Mode
10:58 Impact on User Behaviour and Trust
19:58 Shifting SEO Strategies
26:52 Measuring Success in a Clickless World
36:36 User-Focused Content and Brand Loyalty
38:39 SEO Strategies and Customer Understanding
40:27 Impact of AI on Publishing and Content Creation
50:54 Direct Traffic and Brand Recognition
57:54 Recommendations
01:07:44 Final Thoughts and Upcoming Episodes
In this week's episode of Search with Candour, Jack Chambers-Ward sits down with Manuel Madeddu to discuss the importance of a holistic approach to web performance.
They delve into the significance of connecting various elements such as SEO, user experience, and sustainability for optimal web performance.
Manuel shares his insights on adapting to the evolving search landscape, the critical metrics to monitor, and the significance of bridging the gap between different departments.
Follow Manuel
00:00 Introduction to AI and SEO
00:57 Welcome to Search With Candour
02:30 Guest Introduction: Manuel Madeddu
04:54 The Importance of a Holistic Approach
07:23 Web Performance and Sustainability
14:03 The Evolution of Search and SEO
35:58 Balancing UX, Design, and SEO
41:58 The Importance of Accessibility in Web Development
44:15 Real-World Examples of Accessibility Challenges
47:50 The Role of Legislation in Accessibility
48:25 Colorblindness and User Experience
51:06 Recommendations and Final Thoughts
54:48 Tools and Software for Web Performance
55:59 Entertainment Recommendations: Movies, Games, and Anime
01:08:15 Upcoming Events and Personal Updates
Join hosts Jack Chambers-Ward and Mark Williams-Cook in this week's episode of Search with Candour as they discuss recent Google SERP changes and the impact of AI on keyword research.
Discover why the SEO community is buzzing about Google changing the num100 parameter and how these modifications affect impressions and rank tracking.
Additionally, the dynamic duo share conference experiences, and tease upcoming speaking engagements.
Links:
Timestamps:
00:00 Introduction
00:44 Conference Highlights and AI Keyword Research
01:58 Personalisation in AI Search
07:30 Upcoming Conferences and Events
12:56 Google's Search Parameter Changes
21:55 Impact of Bot Traffic on Google Search Console Data
24:13 Rise of New Crawlers and Tools
25:34 Google's JavaScript Requirement Update
27:33 AI Mode and the Future of Search
35:10 Transparency and Data Limitations
40:20 Upcoming Events and Conferences
In this episode of Search With Candour, Jack Chambers-Ward interviews Jojo Furnival, Marketing Manager at Sitebulb about the unique challenges of enterprise SEO.
Jack & Jojo discuss issues such as the complexity and scale of large websites, resource allocation, and the importance of interdepartmental communication.
Jojo shares insights on the value of automation and proactive management, as well as the essential human skills necessary for effective SEO at an enterprise level.
They also chat about Sitebulb's new cloud services and the importance of aligning SEO strategies with broader business goals.
Jojo’s recommendations:
Follow Jojo:
Resources:
Time stamps
00:00 Introduction to Enterprise SEO Challenges
01:14 Welcome to Search With Candour
04:45 Welcome Jojo Furnival
06:10 Understanding Enterprise SEO Challenges
10:08 Navigating Technical and Human Challenges
14:24 Prioritisation and Communication in SEO
22:38 Aligning SEO with Other Departments
26:10 Adapting to Outdated Technology
30:12 Log File Analysis and Future Plans
31:40 Automation in SEO: Balancing Technology and Human Touch
33:19 Enterprise SEO: Tool Stack and Automation Strategies
35:28 Effective Communication and Soft Skills in SEO
39:44 Understanding Roles and Skills in SEO Teams
45:38 Challenges and Metrics in Enterprise SEO
51:03 Adapting to AI and LLMs in SEO
55:46 Recommendations and Final Thoughts
62:05 Outro
In this episode of Search with Candour, host Jack Chambers-Ward sits down with freelance SEO consultant Ian Ferguson to discuss the delicate balance between user experience (UX) and search engine optimisation (SEO).
They delve into the importance of integrating SEO at the start of web design processes, the impact of AI on SEO, and how to create valuable content that serves both users and search engines.
The episode also touches on practical tips for improving UX, managing client expectations, and the future of SEO in an AI-driven landscape.
Follow Ian:
⭐Website: https://ferguseo.com/
⭐Ian on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ianjferguson/
⭐Ian on Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/ferguseo.com
⭐SEO TLDR Newsletter: https://seotldr.substack.com/
Ian's recommendations:
🛒How do grocery store layouts influence shopping? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=skKu1CSrKsQ
👓Microsoft Clarity - https://clarity.microsoft.com/
🫙Hotjar - https://www.hotjar.com/
🍻The User is Drunk - https://theuserisdrunk.com/
📖Ali Abdaal’s Feel Good Productivity - https://aliabdaal.com/feel-good-productivity/
Links:
🎙️The live podcast in Brighton: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/social-health-is-the-key-to-career-success-free-food-and-drinks-tickets-1556336527449?aff=oddtdtcreator
🥊Jack's MMA fight for charity: https://justgiving.com/page/jack-chambers-ward
Time stamps:
00:00 Introduction
05:00 Welcome Ian Ferguson
05:12 Ian Ferguson's Background and Expertise
06:19 The Intersection of UX and SEO
10:01 Challenges and Strategies in SEO and UX
18:00 The Future of SEO in the Age of AI
39:16 The Importance of Keyword Research in Web Design
39:43 Time Constraints and Departmental Silos in Marketing
40:05 Leveraging AI for Product Data Management
40:56 Enhancing User Experience with Interactive Guides
42:34 The Challenges of Modern SEO and UX Integration
43:43 The Shift from Content Quantity to Quality
46:18 Adapting to AI and Changing Client Needs
52:55 Optimizing Internal Search and User Navigation
55:06 The Role of Data in E-commerce Strategy
59:00 The Benefits of Content Curation and Site Clean up
01:00:33 Psychological Insights from Supermarkets to E-commerce
01:03:37 The Future of SEO and User Experience
01:05:39 Final Thoughts and Recommendations
Welcome to another episode of Search With Candour!This week, Jack Chambers-Ward sits down with Matt Cayless to discuss brand authority and digital PR.Whether you’re an SEO pro, a digital marketer, or a brand builder, this episode is packed with actionable insights, real-world examples, and expert advice on how to build lasting brand authority in 2025 and beyond.🔑 Key Talking Points:
⏰ Timestamps:00:00 – Introduction: Why brand authority matters01:14 – What is brand authority?05:45 – The evolution of SEO and digital PR13:15 – How to measure brand authority18:45 – The power of branded mentions and quality signals25:00 – Digital PR vs. traditional link building32:00 – The impact of AI, LLMs, and changing search habits40:00 – Attribution, analytics, and the “zero-click” world48:00 – Building authority in your niche: practical steps55:00 – Audience research and the importance of showing up58:00 – Recommendations1:03:00 – Where to find Matt Hali and Bubblegum Search👇 Enjoyed the episode?Follow us/subscribe on for more expert interviews and actionable SEO insights!Drop your questions and thoughts in the comments – we love hearing from you.
In this week's episode of Search with Candour, Jack Chambers-Ward discusses the dynamic relationship between branding and SEO with Krešimir Ćorluka, co-founder of Canonical Agency and one of the organisers of Zagreb SEO Summit.
Discover the potential pitfalls of bad branding, learn how to ensure your brand strategy supports your SEO efforts, and understand why knowing your customer base is crucial. Plus, get insights into the future challenges and opportunities brought by AI and LLMs in the digital marketing landscape
Follow Krešimir:
00:00 Highlight reel
01:08 Introduction
03:34 Zagreb SEO Summit Recap
12:21 Challenges in Branding and Rebranding
35:38 The Importance of Team Collaboration
36:22 Challenges with Brand Managers
36:52 Misguided Corporate Decisions
41:10 The AI Hype and Its Pitfalls
45:51 The Future of Google and AI
52:52 Monetisation and Content Quality Concerns
59:15 Final Thoughts and Recommendations