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Beyond Google: Redefining SEO in LLMs and an AI-First World with Heather Physioc of VML
Manage episode 502862838 series 3347766
In this episode of The Simple and Smart SEO Show, host Crystal Waddell welcomes Heather Physioc, Chief Discoverability Officer at VML, for a deep dive into the evolving world of search and digital strategy.
Heather shares her insights on why Google isn't the only search engine that matters, how AI is reshaping the search journey, and why content needs to serve users at every stage—from discovery to post-purchase.
From structured data to customer retention via social media, this episode is packed with practical takeaways for marketers, SEOs, and business owners.
Key Takeaways:
- SEO Isn’t Just About Google Anymore: Platforms like TikTok, Pinterest, Reddit, and in-platform AI search tools are becoming vital in the discoverability ecosystem.
- AI Should Enhance, Not Replace Creativity: Use AI to eliminate repetitive tasks and streamline workflows—not to substitute authentic human communication.
- Brand Experience Matters Across the Entire Journey: From awareness to post-purchase content, every touchpoint contributes to discoverability and trust.
- Structured Data Is Critical for E-commerce SEO: Schema and well-organized product feeds prepare brands for AI-powered commerce search.
- Jobs to Be Done Framework is More Relevant Than Ever: SEO should be rooted in solving real user problems, especially in the age of contextual, compound queries.
- Connected Data Sets = Smarter Strategy: Siloed data is a barrier. Connecting data from search, UX, customer service, and more leads to stronger insights.
Episode Highlights:
- "Google is not the only platform out there where people are engaging in search activities." – Heather Physioc
- "AI has not replaced my copywriters. It has enabled them to produce more at the same high caliber."
- "Think beyond the lower funnel. The objective is not always a conversion or a click."
- "Jobs to be done isn't just a theory—it's a way to make your brand truly useful across all channels."
Listener Action Items:
- Reevaluate Your SEO Strategy Beyond Google: Identify where your audience is searching and tailor your content accordingly.
- Use AI Thoughtfully: Let A
Text me your questions or comments!
Does SEO feel confusing, overwhelming, or just plain impossible to figure out? You’re not alone. That’s why I created the AI SEO Foundations course, powered by Crystal GPT: your personal AI SEO coach designed for busy, creative business owners like you.
Ditch the overwhelm and discover what SEO can do for your business! Head to SEOin7days.com (with the number 7!) and get started today—let’s make your brand easy to find and impossible to ignore.
Want to follow up on what you've heard? Search the podcast!
Join the SEO Squad
Apply to be my podcast guest! 🎙️ Don't forget to Put your pitch topic in the subject line!
AFFILIATE LINKS:
Start your Shopify Store!
Get SurferSEO!
Metricool (to be everywhere online, you NEED a social media scheduler!)
Note:
If you make a purchase using some of my links, I make a little money.
But I only ever share products, people, & offers I trust & use myself!
Chapters
1. Introduction and Guest Introduction (00:00:00)
2. Heather's Role at VML (00:01:05)
3. First Encounter and Impact (00:01:29)
4. AI and Efficiency in SEO (00:01:56)
5. The Evolution of Search Beyond Google (00:03:56)
6. Brand Experience in Search (00:06:02)
7. Retention and Social Media (00:07:36)
8. Opportunities in E-commerce with AI (00:10:08)
9. Connecting Data Sets for Better Insights (00:12:55)
10. Jobs to Be Done Framework (00:14:04)
210 episodes
Manage episode 502862838 series 3347766
In this episode of The Simple and Smart SEO Show, host Crystal Waddell welcomes Heather Physioc, Chief Discoverability Officer at VML, for a deep dive into the evolving world of search and digital strategy.
Heather shares her insights on why Google isn't the only search engine that matters, how AI is reshaping the search journey, and why content needs to serve users at every stage—from discovery to post-purchase.
From structured data to customer retention via social media, this episode is packed with practical takeaways for marketers, SEOs, and business owners.
Key Takeaways:
- SEO Isn’t Just About Google Anymore: Platforms like TikTok, Pinterest, Reddit, and in-platform AI search tools are becoming vital in the discoverability ecosystem.
- AI Should Enhance, Not Replace Creativity: Use AI to eliminate repetitive tasks and streamline workflows—not to substitute authentic human communication.
- Brand Experience Matters Across the Entire Journey: From awareness to post-purchase content, every touchpoint contributes to discoverability and trust.
- Structured Data Is Critical for E-commerce SEO: Schema and well-organized product feeds prepare brands for AI-powered commerce search.
- Jobs to Be Done Framework is More Relevant Than Ever: SEO should be rooted in solving real user problems, especially in the age of contextual, compound queries.
- Connected Data Sets = Smarter Strategy: Siloed data is a barrier. Connecting data from search, UX, customer service, and more leads to stronger insights.
Episode Highlights:
- "Google is not the only platform out there where people are engaging in search activities." – Heather Physioc
- "AI has not replaced my copywriters. It has enabled them to produce more at the same high caliber."
- "Think beyond the lower funnel. The objective is not always a conversion or a click."
- "Jobs to be done isn't just a theory—it's a way to make your brand truly useful across all channels."
Listener Action Items:
- Reevaluate Your SEO Strategy Beyond Google: Identify where your audience is searching and tailor your content accordingly.
- Use AI Thoughtfully: Let A
Text me your questions or comments!
Does SEO feel confusing, overwhelming, or just plain impossible to figure out? You’re not alone. That’s why I created the AI SEO Foundations course, powered by Crystal GPT: your personal AI SEO coach designed for busy, creative business owners like you.
Ditch the overwhelm and discover what SEO can do for your business! Head to SEOin7days.com (with the number 7!) and get started today—let’s make your brand easy to find and impossible to ignore.
Want to follow up on what you've heard? Search the podcast!
Join the SEO Squad
Apply to be my podcast guest! 🎙️ Don't forget to Put your pitch topic in the subject line!
AFFILIATE LINKS:
Start your Shopify Store!
Get SurferSEO!
Metricool (to be everywhere online, you NEED a social media scheduler!)
Note:
If you make a purchase using some of my links, I make a little money.
But I only ever share products, people, & offers I trust & use myself!
Chapters
1. Introduction and Guest Introduction (00:00:00)
2. Heather's Role at VML (00:01:05)
3. First Encounter and Impact (00:01:29)
4. AI and Efficiency in SEO (00:01:56)
5. The Evolution of Search Beyond Google (00:03:56)
6. Brand Experience in Search (00:06:02)
7. Retention and Social Media (00:07:36)
8. Opportunities in E-commerce with AI (00:10:08)
9. Connecting Data Sets for Better Insights (00:12:55)
10. Jobs to Be Done Framework (00:14:04)
210 episodes
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