SEO veterans Mike Blumenthal, Greg Sterling, and David Mim continue exploring the pressing questions surrounding Google's role as a utility and its evolving platforms. Focusing on the European search experience, the discussion also revolves around AI's role in modifying search results, and local service ads' impact on user behavior. The talk also touches on how changes in Google's algorithm and business model are propelling a significant decline in traditional website traffic.

The guests from Near Media provide expert insights on how businesses can adapt by enhancing the visibility of their services via structured content that appeals directly to these AI-driven formats. 

Greg, Mike, and David share their perspectives on AI's potential to redefine consumer interactions with search platforms and marketing methods, while also highlighting the importance of direct customer relationships and authentic experiences. 

Key Segments:

[00:06:51] EU Tech Regulation and Google's Search Impact

[00:10:30] Local SEO and Zero-Click Evolution

[00:13:07] EDGE of the Web Title Sponsor: Site Strategics

[00:14:00] Impact of Google Local Service Ads

[00:17:00] Hotel Ads: Monetization Strategy Insights

[00:20:40] Google Tests Enhanced AI Search Feature

[00:25:31] Enhancing Local Conversion Strategies

[00:29:07] Understanding User Intent in AI

[00:32:22] AI's Concierge Era: Worth the Shift?

[00:35:57] Tailoring Business Model to Audience

Thanks to Our Sponsors!

Site Strategics: https://edgeofthewebradio.com/site

Follow Our Guests:

Mike Blumenthal: 

X: @mblumenthal

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mblumenthal/

BlueSky: @mikeblumenthal.bsky.social

Greg Sterling

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregsterling/ 

David Mihm 

LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/davidmihm 

Resources

https://www.nearmedia.co/dma/google-preliminary-non-compliance-6-5/ 

https://www.nearmedia.co/dma/google-dma-compliance-2025-03/ 

https://www.nearmedia.co/dma/eu-home-services-search-behavior/ 

https://www.nearmedia.co/googles-2nd-local-pack-in-the-eu/

https://www.nearmedia.co/eu-home-services-search-behavior/