Europe has always been ahead of the game when protecting privacy and a fair playing field for its citizens and businesses.  They were the first ones to intro GDPR in 2018, legislation that protected personal data, and many nations around the world followed suit.  Now many years later they have introduced the Digital Markets Act, a bold move to promote a fair playing field online.  In today’s episode we are going explore what this act is about and if it is working.

About the guests

David Mihm has spent his career helping location-oriented companies maximize their digital presence. In the 2010s, he led teams that built software optimizing Google Business Profiles and directory listings—first as co-founder/CEO of GetListed.org, then as the initial product architect of Moz Local, and later as VP of Product Strategy at ThriveHive. He also co-founded Local University and created the Local Search Ranking Factors survey (2008–2016).

David began as a consultant in the mid-2000s and has returned to that role, now partnering with Mike Blumenthal and Greg Sterling at Near Media to help multi-location brands and agencies refine their search strategies.

Stephanie Verilhac is the European Affairs Director for Siinda and founder/CEO of SVM Consult in France. With 20+ years in European affairs, legislation, and regulation, she has worked at the European Parliament and won the François Fontaine Prize. She advises companies on compliance with EU policies in data protection, privacy, digital, finance, and AI.