In the final installment of the Google and Growth series, host Maury Blackman sits down with Joy Hawkins, one of the most recognized experts in local search and the founder of Sterling Sky, LocalU, and the Local Search Forum.

Joy breaks down what small businesses really need to know about SEO in 2025 — from how Google’s local algorithm works to what actually moves the needle in local rankings. She shares insider insights on reviews, proximity, on-page optimization, and the biggest myths holding businesses back from being seen online.

Whether you’re a local business owner trying to stand out on Google Maps or a marketer looking to sharpen your SEO playbook, this conversation delivers practical, no-nonsense advice straight from one of the most trusted voices in the industry.

You’ll learn:

• What really drives local SEO rankings today
• How to avoid the biggest SEO mistakes small businesses make
• The impact of reviews and proximity on visibility
• Where SEO is headed with AI and the future of Google Search

Guest: Joy Hawkins – Founder of Sterling Sky, LocalU, and the Local Search Forum. Columnist at Search Engine Land and Google Business Profile Product Expert.

Host: Maury Blackman, CEO and technologist exploring the intersection of data, growth, and small business innovation.

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