Digitally Speaking

As AI models continue to train on publicly available content, a new battle is emerging: control and compensation. In episode 13 of Digitally Speaking , we examine growing concerns among content creators over AI scraping, and explore tools like Cloudflare’s Pay-Per-Crawl and default crawler blocking designed to monetise and restrict access. From technical defences to the ethical and strategic questions raised, we ask: should you block AI bots... or embrace them? For small businesses especially, visibility and value may be at odds. Listen in as we navigate the trade-offs of protecting your IP in an AI-driven digital economy.

In this episode, we unpack Instagram’s game-changing algorithm update, effective from 10th July 2025. For the first time, content from public professional accounts - including posts, Reels, and videos - can now be indexed by external search engines like Google. We explore what this means for SEO, the growing overlap between social media and search, and how brands can optimise Instagram content for discoverability, traffic, and conversions. With AI Overviews and Zero Click Search on the rise, this is more than just an update - it's a strategic shift. Tune in to learn how to stay ahead, and how to opt out if needed.

Organic reach is down. Engagement is flat. Growth is slow. In Episode 11 of Digitally Speaking, we tackle the harsh reality facing most Facebook business pages - and what you can do about it. With average reach below 2% and engagement even lower, we share real, actionable strategies to turn things around. From video content and Groups to paid boosts that actually work, it’s time to make Facebook work harder for your business.

As AI-generated content floods the digital world, how do you make sure your brand still sounds like you? In this episode, we explore why a distinctive, authentic voice is more important than ever - and how to protect it. We’ll look at practical ways to define and document your tone, how to use AI tools without losing your human edge, and why consistency across your content is key to standing out in a sea of sameness. AI can help, but it shouldn’t speak for you. Let’s talk about using it to amplify your voice – not erase it.

If AI can co-write chart hits and produce entire albums, what can it do for your business? In episode 9 of Digitally Speaking, we riff off insights from the music industry to help SME owners see AI not as a creative replacement, but as a powerful collaborator. Drawing from real-world examples of artists and producers using AI to enhance their sound without losing their soul, we explore how businesses of all kinds can strike the same balance. Whether you're in marketing, design, consulting or any creative field, this is your invitation to remix your workflow - with AI as your backing track, not your frontman.

As search shifts from top ten lists to AI-generated overviews, a new optimisation strategy is emerging: Generative Engine Optimisation (GEO). In this episode, we unpack what GEO means, how it differs from traditional SEO, and what content creators and digital teams can do to stay visible in AI-driven search results. Clear, concise, and credible content is the name of the game – and we’ll show you how to play it.

In Episode 7 of Digitally Speaking, we shine a light on LinkedIn - possibly the most underused yet powerful social platform for small businesses. While many focus on Facebook, Instagram or TikTok, we're here to show you why LinkedIn deserves your attention. Packed with practical advice and encouragement, this episode just might change how you think about professional networking online.

In Episode 6 of Digitally Speaking, we explore the current relevance of hashtags in social media marketing. Are they still a vital tool for engagement, or have they lost their effectiveness? We discuss the evolution of hashtag usage, platform-specific trends, and provide practical advice for small businesses on how to adapt their strategies moving forward.

In Episode 5 of Digitally Speaking, we dive into the world of paid social media advertising - and how to actually make it work for your small business. From smart targeting (hint: “Stop talking to the world - the world doesn’t care”) to spying on your competitors using the Meta Ad Library, we share practical tips to help you advertise more effectively and get the most from every penny you spend.

In Episode 4 of Digitally Speaking, we unpack one of ChatGPT’s most powerful new features - Deep Research. What is it, how does it work, and why should small businesses care? We break it down in simple terms, explore how it compares to regular web searches, and share practical ways to use AI to dig deeper, work smarter, and make better-informed decisions.