What happens when SEO, PPC, analytics, and AI finally speak the same language?In this episode, Gianluca Fiorelli interviews Arnout Hellemans, a consultant known for blending data, advertising, and search strategy into one no-nonsense approach to digital performance. Their conversation dives into smarter measurement, the shifting world of attribution, and how AI is reshaping PPC—both in automation and in the way Google surfaces ads through new AI features. Arnout explains why the most powerful insight often starts with asking the right business question, how first-party and backend data can unlock truly useful dashboards, and why blended profitability metrics beat pixel-perfect attribution every time. They also explore privacy laws, consent challenges, ad monetization in AI Mode, and the practical ways Arnout uses AI to work faster, cleaner, and more creatively.This is the 40th episode of: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL_sm3ydVBxdAJ84k2qsH1LkTDbtbdNrGh Here's what you'll learn in this episode:(00:07) Meet Our Guest: Arnout Hellemans(01:00) How SEO Feels Right Now(03:09) Common Onboarding Mistakes in SEO(09:37) Why Proprietary Data Beats Standard Analytics(13:38) The Attribution Problem(21:13) Data Governance Fundamentals(25:02) Google's AI Push in PPC(30:33) AI Overviews Impact on Paid Search(33:21) Ad Placement in AI-Generated SERPs(37:35) AI Tools in Arnout's Workflow(40:08) The Modern Customer Journey(43:18) Oysters and Events: The Personal Side👉 Read the full article and explore additional insights: https://www.advancedwebranking.com/blog/rethinking-measurement-smarter-data-attribution-ai Where to find Arnout HellemansLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/arnouthellemans/ X: https://x.com/hellemans Website: https://onlinemarkethink.com/ Where to find Gianluca Fiorelli Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gianlucafiorelli/ X: https://x.com/gfiorelli1 Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/gfiorelli1.bsky.social Website: https://iloveseo.net/ 🎙 Listen to The Search Session on your favorite platform:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL_sm3ydVBxdAJ84k2qsH1LkTDbtbdNrGh Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1FzI5qwHtIndtiibZWiroS Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-search-session/id1796043201 Made with ❤️by Advanced Web Ranking, the people behind the world's most accurate and longest-standing rank tracker.Get your free 7-day trial and find your true visibility in organic search for any market: https://www.advancedwebranking.com/Be sure to subscribe for more actionable marketing and SEO tutorials: / @advancedwebranking
What happens when real-world SEO meets real-world AI? In this episode, Gianluca Fiorelli sits down with Sophie Brannon, SEO specialist and Co-Founder & Director of StudioHawk US, to explore how AI is transforming search—without the hype and without the fear. Their conversation digs into the shift from buzzwords and big promises to practical adoption, smarter workflows, and meaningful results. Sophie shares how StudioHawk uses AI for content, sentiment insights, and global oversight, while still knowing when human expertise should take the lead. From agentic search to influencing how LLMs talk about brands, this episode brings clear, future-focused vision to a rapidly evolving space. Curious to hear how it all connects? Press play and dive in.This is the 39th episode of: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL_sm3ydVBxdAJ84k2qsH1LkTDbtbdNrGh Here's what you'll learn in this episode:(00:05) Meet Our Guest: Sophie Brannon(01:42) Cutting Through the AI Hype and Overwhelm(04:32) What’s Scaring SEOs About AI(08:57) Overpromising and Practical AI Implementation(13:26) How StudioHawk Uses AI Day-to-Day(16:10) Guardrails: Human Creativity in the Loop(18:32) Sophie’s Personal AI Habits(20:21) Evolving Roles: “AI + Something”(22:41) Winning Brand Visibility in LLMs(27:20) Reddit, Forums & the Schema Debate(34:07) When NOT to Use AI(40:09) Agentic Search & E-commerce Readiness(46:00) The Fireside Questionnaire👉 Read the full article and explore additional insights: https://www.advancedwebranking.com/blog/beyond-ai-search-hype-and-overwhelm Where to find Sophie BrannonLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sophie-brannon-081bb294 X: https://x.com/SophieBrannon Website: https://studiohawk.com.au/ Where to find Gianluca Fiorelli Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gianlucafiorelli/ X: https://x.com/gfiorelli1 Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/gfiorelli1.bsky.social Website: https://iloveseo.net/ 🎙 Listen to The Search Session on your favorite platform:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL_sm3ydVBxdAJ84k2qsH1LkTDbtbdNrGh Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1FzI5qwHtIndtiibZWiroS Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-search-session/id1796043201 Made with ❤️by Advanced Web Ranking, the people behind the world's most accurate and longest-standing rank tracker.Get your free 7-day trial and find your true visibility in organic search for any market: https://www.advancedwebranking.com/Be sure to subscribe for more actionable marketing and SEO tutorials: / @advancedwebranking
What happens to SEO when search goes beyond the website?In this episode of The Search Session, host Gianluca Fiorelli sits down with Ivano Di Biasi, Italian SEO specialist, software developer, and CEO & co-founder of SEOZoom, to unpack how AI is reshaping the way people search—and how SEOs must evolve with it.Ivano reveals why informational traffic is dropping while transactional intent stays solid, how Google ranks websites and UGC on different paths, and why true visibility now lives across web, video, and social. He explains why branded searches remain the strongest signal of real impact, how keyword clustering defines modern intent, and why AI citations still rely on traditional rankings rather than independent discovery.It’s a deep dive into the future: structured results, citation-driven SERPs, and a search world where AI and classic SEO converge. Tune in for the data, the discoveries, and a clear view of where search is heading next.This is the 38th episode of: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL_sm3ydVBxdAJ84k2qsH1LkTDbtbdNrGh Here's what you'll learn in this episode:(00:07) Meet Our Guest: Ivano Di Biasi(00:46) How AI Is Changing SEO in Italy(10:47) From Clicks to Visibility: What to Measure(19:52)Training Data vs. Real-Time Data in AI Search(30:40) Keyword Clusters, Fan-Out & Intent(37:06) The Future SERP: Web Guide-Style, AI-Enhanced(44:14) Agents, MCPs & Monetizing AI Mode(51:34) The Fireside Questionnaire👉 Read the full article and explore additional insights: https://www.advancedwebranking.com/blog/understanding-ai-powered-search Where to find Ivano Di BiasiLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ivano-di-biasi-70049419/ X: https://x.com/idibiasi Website: https://ivano.com/ Where to find Gianluca Fiorelli Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gianlucafiorelli/ X: https://x.com/gfiorelli1 Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/gfiorelli1.bsky.social Website: https://iloveseo.net/ 🎙 Listen to The Search Session on your favorite platform:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL_sm3ydVBxdAJ84k2qsH1LkTDbtbdNrGh Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1FzI5qwHtIndtiibZWiroS Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-search-session/id1796043201 Made with ❤️by Advanced Web Ranking, the people behind the world's most accurate and longest-standing rank tracker.Get your free 7-day trial and find your true visibility in organic search for any market: https://www.advancedwebranking.com/Be sure to subscribe for more actionable marketing and SEO tutorials: / @advancedwebranking
What happens when AI Overviews, core updates, and real-world SEO collide?In this episode of The Search Session, host Gianluca Fiorelli sits down with MJ Cachón, the Spanish SEO consultant and strategist known for her work across data-driven search, business strategy, and complex site migrations. From the shifting impact of AI on brands of every size to the lingering misunderstandings around rankings, MJ offers a grounded perspective on what’s changing - and what’s not. She dives into lessons learned from Google core updates, why education still matters, how SEOs and developers can collaborate without friction, and where AI tools can enhance (but never replace) human expertise. A sharp, practical conversation for anyone navigating the evolving search ecosystem. Tune in and get ready for clarity.This is the 37th episode of: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL_sm3ydVBxdAJ84k2qsH1LkTDbtbdNrGh Here's what you'll learn in this episode:00:07 Meet Our Guest: MJ Cachón02:33 Managing Client Expectations11:29 Visibility vs. Traffic: The New Value Proposition19:47 SEO's Role in Brand Building24:08 Core Update Analysis & Patterns30:16 Website Migration: Common Mistakes & Best Practices33:47 Managing Developer Relationships38:25 AI Tools in Daily SEO Work45:39 Learning from Failure: The User Agent Mistake48:38 Personal Life & Interests👉 Read the full article and explore additional insights: https://www.advancedwebranking.com/blog/staying-grounded-ai-driven-seo-mj-cachon Where to find MJ CachónLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mjcachon/ X: https://x.com/mjcachon Website: https://www.mjcachon.com/ Laika Agency: https://laikateam.com/ Where to find Gianluca Fiorelli Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gianlucafiorelli/ X: https://x.com/gfiorelli1 Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/gfiorelli1.bsky.social Website: https://iloveseo.net/ 🎙 Listen to The Search Session on your favorite platform:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL_sm3ydVBxdAJ84k2qsH1LkTDbtbdNrGh Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1FzI5qwHtIndtiibZWiroS Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-search-session/id1796043201 Made with ❤️by Advanced Web Ranking, the people behind the world's most accurate and longest-standing rank tracker.Get your free 7-day trial and find your true visibility in organic search for any market: https://www.advancedwebranking.com/Be sure to subscribe for more actionable marketing and SEO tutorials: / @advancedwebranking
What happens when AI reshapes how people search, feel, and buy online?In this episode of The Search Session, host Gianluca Fiorelli sits down with Italian digital strategy advisor Marco Loguercio to explore the evolution of e-commerce in an AI-driven world. From omnichannel search trends revealed by the Osservatorio Search in Italy to the rising impact of real intent over guesswork, the conversation dives into how data and emotion are merging to redefine the product experience. Marco explains why content must be treated as part of the product itself, how emotional imagery paired with clarity drives conversions, and why the line between online and offline shopping is disappearing. With ChatGPT now integrating checkout through platforms like Etsy and Shopify, the stakes for understanding buyer behavior and controlling first-party data have never been higher.Tune in for a fast-paced conversation packed with insights on aligning search, content, and commerce to meet people where their desire begins. Enjoy!This is the 36th episode of: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL_sm3ydVBxdAJ84k2qsH1LkTDbtbdNrGh Here's what you'll learn in this episode:(00:05) Meet Our Guest: Marco Loguercio(04:35) Is SEO Becoming Commoditized?(07:09) The Omnichannel Search in Italy 2025(12:57) The Rise of Search Fatigue(17:35) Content That Truly Serves Customers(24:28) Authenticity and Insights in Online Communities(28:16) The Dual Role of Product Pages(31:15) Connecting Online and Offline Commerce(36:01) LLMs Enter Commerce: ChatGPT, Etsy, and Shopify(41:20) The Attribution Dilemma in the Age of AI(49:32) The Athlete’s Mindset Behind Marketing Success👉 Read the full article and explore additional insights: https://www.advancedwebranking.com/blog/e-commerce-in-omnichannel-ai-search Where to find Marco LoguercioLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcologuercio X: https://x.com/marcologuercio Website: https://www.marcologuercio.it/ Where to find Gianluca Fiorelli Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gianlucafiorelli/ X: https://x.com/gfiorelli1 Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/gfiorelli1.bsky.social Website: https://iloveseo.net/ Made with ❤️by Advanced Web Ranking, the people behind the world's most accurate and longest-standing rank tracker.Get your free 7-day trial and find your true visibility in organic search for any market: https://www.advancedwebranking.com/Be sure to subscribe for more actionable marketing and SEO tutorials: /@advancedwebranking
What happens when SEO grows up? In this episode of The Search Session, Gianluca Fiorelli sits down with Tom Critchlow to explore the uncomfortable truths of modern SEO - where tactics meet business strategy and brand power drives real impact. They dive into the future of AI answers, the limits of traditional SEO, and why linking out might just save search from becoming a wall of text. Tune in to discover how SEO is evolving beyond the blue links and what it really takes to stay relevant in the age of AI.This is the 35th episode of: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL_sm3ydVBxdAJ84k2qsH1LkTDbtbdNrGh Here's what you'll learn in this episode:(00:06) Meet Our Guest: Tom Critchlow(01:43) How SEO Is “Complicated” Now(04:25) Why Links (and “Reasons to Click”) Will Come Back(13:27) What Really Moves SEO(20:43) The New SEO Agency Model(25:40) SEO vs. GEO Is a False Binary(30:47) Reputation & Sentiment: ORM in the LLM era(37:40) Creator Economy in the AI Era(47:17) QuickPersonal Note: “Not American—New Yorker”👉 Read the full article and explore additional insights: https://www.advancedwebranking.com/blog/leveling-up-seo-in-ai-era Where to find Tom CritchlowLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tomcritchlow/ X: https://x.com/tomcritchlow Website: https://tomcritchlow.com/ Where to find Gianluca Fiorelli Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gianlucafiorelli/ X: https://x.com/gfiorelli1 Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/gfiorelli1.bsky.social Website: https://iloveseo.net/ Made with ❤️by Advanced Web Ranking, the people behind the world's most accurate and longest-standing rank tracker.Get your free 7-day trial and find your true visibility in organic search for any market: https://www.advancedwebranking.com/Be sure to subscribe for more actionable marketing and SEO tutorials: / @advancedwebranking
What happens when old-school SEO meets the AI-powered search era? In this episode of The Search Session, Gianluca Fiorelli sits down with Martin MacDonald to trace SEO’s evolution—from the experimental 2000s to today’s world of LLMs, structured data, and enterprise-scale challenges. Expect insights on how AI reshapes search visibility, why structured data still pays off, and what it really takes to drive impact across millions of pages. Tune in for a sharp, human take on where search is headed next.This is the 34 episode of: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL_sm3ydVBxdAJ84k2qsH1LkTDbtbdNrGh Here's what you'll learn in this episode:(00:06) Meet Our Guest: Martin MacDonald(04:50) From Pre-Google SEO to AI Search(20:12) Spotting “AI Bros” vs. Real Experiments(23:41) How LLMs Really Build Answers(29:03) Structured Data’s Second-Order Effects in AI(35:24) Experiment Framework: Mining GSC for LLM Query Patterns(42:35) Can You Trust GSC?(46:12) Enterprise SEO at Scale: Breadth > Single Keywords(54:40) Quickfire Personal👉 Read the full article and explore additional insights: https://www.advancedwebranking.com/blog/enterprise-seo-in-age-of-ai-llms Where to find Martin MacDonaldLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/searchmartin/ X: https://x.com/searchmartin/ Website: https://barbadosSEO.com Where to find Gianluca Fiorelli Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gianlucafiorelli/ X: https://x.com/gfiorelli1 Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/gfiorelli1.bsky.social Website: https://iloveseo.net/ Made with ❤️by Advanced Web Ranking, the people behind the world's most accurate and longest-standing rank tracker.Get your free 7-day trial and find your true visibility in organic search for any market: https://www.advancedwebranking.com/Be sure to subscribe for more actionable marketing and SEO tutorials: / @advancedwebranking
What happens when AI stops being just a helper and starts reshaping the very core of marketing strategy and brand building? In this episode of The Search Session, Gianluca Fiorelli sits down with Joanna Lord, global brand leader, to explore how AI is transforming organizations, driving growth, and redefining resonance. From productivity gains to bold strategic pivots, Joanna shares a clear, practical lens on the future of marketing and what it means to lead with AI at the center. Tune in for a conversation that’s equal parts insightful and actionable.This is the 33rd episode of: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL_sm3ydVBxdAJ84k2qsH1LkTDbtbdNrGh Here's what you'll learn in this episode:(00:06) Meet Our Guest: Joanna Lord(04:08) AI-Native Roles Across Startup Stages(08:30) CRM-Powered SEO(17:29) Beyond Efficiency: AI as Marketing Strategy(25:25) From Reach to Resonance(35:03) AI is Merging Creators with Brand Strategy(42:36) Measurement and Consent-First Personalization(45:46) The Fireside Questionnaire👉 Read the full article and explore additional insights: https://www.advancedwebranking.com/blog/building-resonant-brands-with-ai Where to find Joanna Lord X: https://x.com/joannalord Website: https://www.joannalord.com/ Threads: https://www.threads.com/@joannalordLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joannalordSubstack: Building Beautiful Things > https://joannalord.substack.com/ Where to find Gianluca Fiorelli Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gianlucafiorelli/ X: https://x.com/gfiorelli1 Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/gfiorelli1.bsky.social Website: https://iloveseo.net/ Made with ❤️by Advanced Web Ranking, the people behind the world's most accurate and longest-standing rank tracker.Get your free 7-day trial and find your true visibility in organic search for any market: https://www.advancedwebranking.com/Be sure to subscribe for more actionable marketing and SEO tutorials: / @advancedwebranking
What does SEO really look like in a world shaped by AI, fragmented search, and constantly evolving user behavior?In this episode of The Search Session, Gianluca Fiorelli is joined by Andy Chadwick, who describes his work as “driving brand visibility across every search platform.” Andy shares a sharp, forward-thinking take on the future of search, exploring ideas like ambient visibility—the need to show up everywhere your audience is searching, not just on Google. He explains why cutting top-of-funnel content is a mistake, how topical authority is built through breadth, depth, and recognition, and why keywords are still the building blocks of content strategy. From content fragmentation strategies that can outpace big players to his concept of “3D search intent,” this conversation is packed with insights that challenge old assumptions and reveal what it really takes to stay visible in today’s search landscape.This is the 32nd episode of: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL_sm3ydVBxdAJ84k2qsH1LkTDbtbdNrGh Here's what you'll learn in this episode:(00:08) Meet Our Guest: Andy Chadwick(03:10) How SEO Is Treating Us in 2025(07:28) “Ambient Visibility” in SEO(13:44) Topical Authority: What It Is (and Isn’t)(21:54) Keyword Insights: What’s New and What’s Next(25:06) Content Fragmentation Strategy(27:36) Are Keywords Dead?(34:01) Mining Reddit for Real Questions(43:15) The Future of Search: Fragmentation & 3D Intent(48:25) The Fireside Questionnaire👉 Read the full article and explore additional insights: https://www.advancedwebranking.com/blog/topical-authority-in-multi-platform-search Where to find Andy ChadwickLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andy-chadwick/ X: https://x.com/digitalquokka Website: https://www.keywordinsights.ai/ Website: https://snippet.digital/ Where to find Gianluca Fiorelli Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gianlucafiorelli/ X: https://x.com/gfiorelli1 Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/gfiorelli1.bsky.social Website: https://iloveseo.net/ Made with ❤️by Advanced Web Ranking, the people behind the world's most accurate and longest-standing rank tracker.Get your free 7-day trial and find your true visibility in organic search for any market: https://www.advancedwebranking.com/Be sure to subscribe for more actionable marketing and SEO tutorials: / @advancedwebranking
What happens when you sit down with a true SEO pioneer who’s spent decades shaping the industry and teaching the next generation? In this episode of The Search Session podcast, host Gianluca Fiorelli welcomes Ian Lurie - strategist, educator at the University of Washington, and self-described nerd with a passion for digging into the details.The conversation explores the evolving mindset of young professionals compared to earlier generations, why chunking optimization reflects the way humans naturally absorb information, and how Ian sees AI not as a shortcut but as a genuine collaborator.He also shares practical insights on the quick technical wins that deliver outsized results, the importance of focusing on business metrics over vanity ones, and why marketers must embrace lift-based measurement as a foundation for long-term success.Packed with sharp perspectives and hands-on advice, this episode offers both a thoughtful look at the past and a clear direction for the future of SEO and marketing performance.This is the 31st episode of: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL_sm3ydVBxdAJ84k2qsH1LkTDbtbdNrGh Here's what you'll learn in this episode:(00:07) Meet Our Guest: Ian Lurie(02:57) Handling AI Overviews & Client Confusion(07:32) AI, Automation Hype & Critical Thinking(14:56) Chunking, Passage Ranking & Writing for Humans(22:34) AI as Creative Partner, Not Automator(28:32) A D&D Party for Digital Marketing(32:42) Site Performance Quick Wins(36:30) Metrics After Zero-Click(46:06) The Fireside Questionnaire👉 Read the full article and explore additional insights: https://www.advancedwebranking.com/blog/build-value-measure-lift-ai-seach Where to find Ian LurieLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ianlurie/ X: https://x.com/ianlurie Website: https://www.ianlurie.com/ Where to find Gianluca Fiorelli Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gianlucafiorelli/ X: https://x.com/gfiorelli1 Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/gfiorelli1.bsky.social Website: https://iloveseo.net/ Made with ❤️by Advanced Web Ranking, the people behind the world's most accurate and longest-standing rank tracker.Get your free 30-day trial and find your true visibility in organic search for any market: https://www.advancedwebranking.com/Be sure to subscribe for more actionable marketing and SEO tutorials: / @advancedwebranking
What does it take to create content that truly stands out in an AI-driven search world? In this episode of The Search Session, Gianluca Fiorelli chats with Shelley Walsh, SEO Content Strategist and industry veteran, about the shift from spammy SERPs to AI, the rise of creative, non-traditional voices in SEO, and why clarity, intent, and audience connection still matter most. Shelley also shares insights from her work at SEJ, where she elevated content into expert-led, evidence-based journalism. A must-listen for anyone serious about content and strategy.This is the 30th episode of: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL_sm3ydVBxdAJ84k2qsH1LkTDbtbdNrGh Here's what you'll learn in this episode:(00:06) Meet Our Guest: Shelley Walsh(02:02) How’s SEO treating you?(08:36) Bringing Offline Skills to SEO(22:09) Creativity & Design Thinking in SEO(32:40) SEJ’s Content Evolution(39:19) Creativity as the Future of Publishing(43:04) Chunking & Writing for LLMs(55:40) The Fireside Questionnaire👉 Read the full article and explore additional insights: https://www.advancedwebranking.com/blog/smarter-content-strategy-in-ai-era Where to find Shelley WalshLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shelleywalsh/ X: https://x.com/theshelleywalsh YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@shelleywalsh Where to find Gianluca Fiorelli Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gianlucafiorelli/ X: https://x.com/gfiorelli1 Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/gfiorelli1.bsky.social Website: https://iloveseo.net/ Made with ❤️by Advanced Web Ranking, the people behind the world's most accurate and longest-standing rank tracker.Get your free 30-day trial and find your true visibility in organic search for any market: https://www.advancedwebranking.com/Be sure to subscribe for more actionable marketing and SEO tutorials: / @advancedwebranking
What does it take to blend SEO expertise, startup lessons, and community building into one career?In this episode of The Search Session podcast, host Gianluca Fiorelli sits down with Yagmur Simsek, SEO & Content Strategist, conference organizer, and international community connector. Yagmur shares her unique perspective on how AI is shaping search, why startups often stumble when skipping the basics, and how generosity fuels meaningful connections in the industry. From the role of AI Overviews in brand visibility to the balance between automation and human creativity, this conversation offers practical takeaways and thoughtful reflections. Tune in to hear Yagmur’s story and her insights on the future of search, startups, and the power of local communities.This is the 29th episode of: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL_sm3ydVBxdAJ84k2qsH1LkTDbtbdNrGh Here's what you'll learn in this episode:(00:07) Meet Our Guest: Yagmur Simsek(01:27) SEO Today: KPIs, Metrics, and Client Expectations(07:03) Content Collaboration with AI(13:59) Startup Pitfalls and Growth Lessons(23:22) Building and Sustaining Communities(29:30) Choosing the Right Communities for Brands(32:40) SEO Best Practices in an Uncertain Era(38:40) Organizing Events: Search ’n Stuff(46:22) The Fireside Questionnaire👉 Read the full article and explore additional insights: https://www.advancedwebranking.com/blog/blending-ai-networking-community-in-seo Where to find Yagmur SimsekLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/yagmursimsek91/ X: https://x.com/yagmrsmsk Website: https://searchnstuff.co.uk/ Website: https://globalcybersecuritynetwork.com/ Where to find Gianluca Fiorelli Linkedin:https://www.linkedin.com/in/gianlucafiorelli/ X: https://x.com/gfiorelli1 Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/gfiorelli1.bsky.social Website: https://iloveseo.net/ Made with ❤️by Advanced Web Ranking, the people behind the world's most accurate and longest-standing rank tracker.Get your free 30-day trial and find your true visibility in organic search for any market: https://www.advancedwebranking.com/Be sure to subscribe for more actionable marketing and SEO tutorials: https://x.com/awebranking
What does the future of search really look like in a world of zero-click results, AI overviews, and shifting user attention? In this episode of The Search Session podcast, Gianluca Fiorelli welcomes Rand Fishkin, one of the most recognized voices in the SEO and digital marketing world, for a candid and thought-provoking conversation. Together, they explore why SEO is thriving, how branding has become central to success, and what the rise of zero-click searches means for marketers everywhere. Rand shares his vision of marketing as a story, with Google, OpenAI, and marketers as key players, while also questioning who the true heroes really are. The discussion goes deep into how SEO supports branding—through structured data, Knowledge Graph optimization, and sentiment-driven clustering—and why memorability matters more than awareness alone. They also examine the attention shift, as TikTok, YouTube, and Reddit increasingly dominate user behavior, and search now accounts for less than 10% of online activity.This wide-ranging SEO podcast episode is packed with insights for anyone interested in the future of search, branding strategies, and the evolving role of digital marketing. If you want to understand how zero-click searches, AI, and changing platforms are reshaping the landscape, don’t miss this conversation with Rand Fishkin.This is the 28th episode of: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL_sm3ydVBxdAJ84k2qsH1LkTDbtbdNrGh Here's what you'll learn in this episode:(00:05) Meet Our Guest: Rand Fishkin(04:17) SEO Through an Outsider’s Lens(10:26) AI and SEO: From Data to Creativity(17:01) From Audience Research to Zero-Click Strategy(27:06) Personalized Search and Its Impact on SEO & Branding(34:20) How Rand and Casey Henry use AI(46:30) Rand Fishkin Beyond Marketing👉 Read the full article and explore additional insights: https://www.advancedwebranking.com/blog/branding-in-age-of-ai-zero-click-serpsWhere to find Rand FishkinLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/randfishkin/ X: https://x.com/randfish Website: https://sparktoro.com/ Where to find Gianluca Fiorelli Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gianlucafiorelli/ X: https://x.com/gfiorelli1 Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/gfiorelli1.bsky.social Website: https://iloveseo.net/ Made with ❤️by Advanced Web Ranking, the people behind the world's most accurate and longest-standing rank tracker.Get your free 30-day trial and find your true visibility in organic search for any market: https://www.advancedwebranking.com/Be sure to subscribe for more actionable marketing and SEO tutorials: https://x.com/awebranking
What does it really take to stay ahead in SEO when AI is reshaping search as we know it?In this episode of The Search Session podcast, host Gianluca Fiorelli sits down with Mark Williams-Cook—SEO expert, digital strategist, and founder of AlsoAsked.com. With years of experience spotting trends before they hit the mainstream, Mark shares how he communicates complex AI-driven search changes with clients, why “SEO is dead” is a myth that refuses to die, and how user intent insights from People Also Ask and query fan-out can unlock smarter content strategies.He also dives into his discoveries about Google’s site quality thresholds, the ongoing importance of user signals and trust data, and why, despite all the noise around AI, technical health, strong content, and coverage remain the foundation of SEO success.Tune in to hear fresh perspectives and timeless reminders that will reshape the way you think about search.This is the 27th episode of: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL_sm3ydVBxdAJ84k2qsH1LkTDbtbdNrGh Here's what you'll learn in this episode:(00:07) Meet Our Guest: Mark Williams-Cook(01:50) How SEO Is Treating Mark Lately(09:51) People Also Ask in the Age of AI Search(22:03) Connecting Query Fan-Out, PAA, and Follow-up Questions38:04) Prompt Tracking vs. Brand Visibility(44:23) Lessons from the Google Exploit: Site Quality Score(55:43) Getting to Know Mark, Outside the SEO Bubble👉 Read the full article and explore additional insights: https://www.advancedwebranking.com/blog/from-people-also-ask-to-ai-search Where to find Mark Williams-CookLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/markseo/ X: https://x.com/thetafferboy Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/markwilliamscook.com Website: https://withcandour.co.uk/ Where to find Gianluca Fiorelli Linkedin:https://www.linkedin.com/in/gianlucafiorelli/ X: https://x.com/gfiorelli1 Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/gfiorelli1.bsky.social Website: https://iloveseo.net/ Made with ❤️by Advanced Web Ranking, the people behind the world's most accurate and longest-standing rank tracker.Get your free 30-day trial and find your true visibility in organic search for any market: https://www.advancedwebranking.com/Be sure to subscribe for more actionable marketing and SEO tutorials: https://x.com/awebranking
Is affiliate marketing still worth it in 2025? In this episode of The Search Session, host Gianluca Fiorelli sits down with Gareth Hoyle and Rishi Lakhani to explore the realities of affiliate marketing—how it works, how it’s evolving, and what these changes mean for marketers. The conversation covers why LLM SEO remains uncertain and why marketers should be cautious about so-called optimization services, the importance of strong brand signals and diverse traffic sources, and the continuing role of links in competitive rankings. They also discuss how affiliates are expanding beyond Google through platforms like Discord, Telegram, and creator partnerships, and how different approaches to visibility—conversions versus impressions—can shape success. Packed with insights and candid opinions, this episode offers a clear-eyed look at affiliate marketing today.This is the 26th episode of: The Search Session YouTube Playlist Here’s what you’ll learn in this episode:(00:06) Meet Our Guests: Gareth Hoyle and Rishi Lakhani(01:40) How SEO Has Been Lately(06:10) Gaming LLM Visibility: Experiments and Tactics(09:24) Affiliate Marketing: AI, Scale, Myths, and Realities(14:38) Omnichannel Strategies & Community Building for Affiliate Websites(21:28) Link Building vs. Brand Mentions in the LLM Age(34:34) Translating the Shift from Clicks to Visibility Metrics to Clients(40:57) Personalization Challenges in AI and LLM Search(47:56) Life Beyond Marketing: Passions, Travel & Role Models 👉 Read the full article and explore additional insights: https://www.advancedwebranking.com/blog/affiliate-marketing-in-ai-search-era Where to find Gareth Hoyle LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/garethhoyle X: https://x.com/search_magician Website: https://garethhoyle.com/Where to find Rishi Lakhani LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rishilakhani X: https://x.com/rishil Website: https://pwani.co.uk/Where to find Gianluca Fiorelli LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gianlucafiorelli/ X: https://x.com/gfiorelli1 Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/gfiorelli1.bsky.social Website: https://iloveseo.net/Made with ❤️ by Advanced Web Ranking, the people behind the world's most accurate and longest-standing rank tracker.Get your free 30-day trial and find your true visibility in organic search for any market: https://www.advancedwebranking.com/Be sure to subscribe for more actionable marketing and SEO tutorials: https://www.youtube.com/@advancedwebranking
What happens when an SEO expert takes their skills to one of the most unique digital markets in the world?In this episode of The Search Session, host Gianluca Fiorelli is joined by Natalia Witczyk, an International SEO Consultant who made the bold move to China, navigating a completely different search ecosystem while continuing her global SEO work.The conversation explores Natalia’s experience bridging Chinese and Western SEO markets, the influence of Baidu’s black-hat culture, the contrasting approaches of Chinese and Western brands toward global expansion, and the role of platforms like WeChat in shaping search behavior long before AI. They also discuss the risks posed by Google’s AI translations bypassing local content and languages, and why SEO strategies need to evolve toward UX personalization and human-focused metrics.Packed with valuable insights, practical advice, and real-world stories, this episode offers a unique perspective on the intersection of SEO, AI, and cultural differences in search.This is the 25th episode of: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL_sm3ydVBxdAJ84k2qsH1LkTDbtbdNrGh Here's what you'll learn in this episode:(00:10) Meet Our Guest: Natalia Witczyk(02:04) Bridging Western and Chinese SEO(03:33) Chinese Brands Entering Western Markets: Key SEO Challenges(05:39) Baidu vs. Google: Why Baidu SEO is a Different Game(11:37) Lessons from Social Media: Adapting to Google’s Zero-Click Future(13:57) AI’s Impact on Search Behavior: What China’s Already Doing(18:52) How European Clients are Adapting to AI in SEO(23:56) SEO Metrics and Reporting in the Age of LLMs(28:12) International SEO Challenges: Google’s AI and Translation Issues(34:34) Natalia's Prediction: The Shift from 'International SEO' to 'International UX'(41:55) Insights from Being a Search Awards Judge: How Global SEO Strategies Are Evolving(48:52) Beyond SEO: Getting to Know Natalia👉 Read the full article and explore additional insights: https://www.advancedwebranking.com/blog/international-seo-insights-from-china Where to find Natalia WitczykLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nataliawitczyk/ Website: https://www.jademond.com Where to find Gianluca Fiorelli Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gianlucafiorelli/ X: https://x.com/gfiorelli1 Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/gfiorelli1.bsky.social Website: https://iloveseo.net/ Made with ❤️by Advanced Web Ranking, the people behind the world's most accurate and longest-standing rank tracker.Get your free 30-day trial and find your true visibility in organic search for any market: https://www.advancedwebranking.com/Be sure to subscribe for more actionable marketing and SEO tutorials: https://www.youtube.com/@advancedwebranking
Are you using AI in your SEO strategy—or is it using you?In this episode of The Search Session, Gianluca Fiorelli chats with the brilliant Judith Lewis—digital marketing consultant, international conference MC, and certified wine-and-chocolate connoisseur—about how AI is reshaping the search landscape.From shifting visibility in B2B and B2C, to the rise of post-purchase SEO, to the risks of AI hallucinations, this conversation is packed with sharp insights, laughs, and practical advice. Judith shares real talk on using AI to speed up tasks without replacing expertise, and why flexible strategies are key in today’s fast-changing digital world.It’s an inspiring, no-fluff episode you won’t want to miss.This is the 24th episode of: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL_sm3ydVBxdAJ84k2qsH1LkTDbtbdNrGh Here's what you'll learn in this episode:(00:07) Meet Our Guest: Judith Lewis(05:26) SEO Today: Stability, Strategy, and the Post-Purchase Opportunity(07:01) B2B vs B2C in the Age of AI Overviews and The Great Decoupling(16:21) How AI Can Speed Up Work and Where It Falls Short: Recognizing Hallucination Risks(29:30) Creating Adaptable Strategies That Support Business Goals — Without Getting Stuck in Rigid Plans(39:15) The Myths of Generative Engine Optimization(43:20) Experiments, Spam Tactics, and the Limits of Persuasion(52:23) The Fireside Questionnaire👉 Read the full article and explore additional insights: https://www.advancedwebranking.com/blog/ai-search-strategy Where to find Judith LewisLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/judithlewis/ X: https://x.com/JudithLewis Website: https://www.decabbit.com/ Where to find Gianluca Fiorelli Linkedin:https://www.linkedin.com/in/gianlucafiorelli/ X: https://x.com/gfiorelli1 Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/gfiorelli1.bsky.social Website: https://iloveseo.net/ AI-Powered SEO ReportMade with ❤️by Advanced Web Ranking, the people behind the world's most accurate and longest-standing rank tracker.Get your free 30-day trial and find your true visibility in organic search for any market: https://www.advancedwebranking.com/Be sure to subscribe for more actionable marketing and SEO tutorials: https://www.youtube.com/@advancedwebranking
In this episode of The Search Session, Gianluca Fiorelli sits down with Jes Scholz - renowned growth marketing consultant and respected voice in the SEO world - to unpack what truly matters in search today. From the resurgence of excitement in SEO to the impact of AI on how we think and work, Jes shares thoughtful, experience-driven insights on how to adapt without losing sight of the fundamentals.Together, they explore why building brand salience should be at the core of any strategy, how understanding category entry points and intent beats keyword obsession, and why Google Discover deserves a seat at the SEO table. Plus, Jes offers a smart take on avoiding “AI slop” by creating genuinely valuable content. Whether you’re grappling with legacy tactics or navigating AI-driven disruption, this conversation will help you rethink your approach and move forward with purpose.This is the 23rd episode of: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL_sm3ydVBxdAJ84k2qsH1LkTDbtbdNrGh Here's what you'll learn in this episode:(01:11) Meet Our Guest: Jes Scholz(01:43) Jes's Advice on Navigating Uncertainty in the AI-Driven Era(05:35) Reframing SEO Strategy: From Keywords to Category Entry Points(13:34) How Hyper-Personalized Search Reshapes Optimization(15:40) Learning from Google Discover: Using Topical Authority to Win Visibility(20:33) Why Content isn’t Just Text Anymore and What SEOs Must Do(27:39) Chunks vs. Cohesive Content: Balancing Readability for LLMs and Real Human Users(34:41) Rethinking SEO Metrics: Using Share of Voice and Prompt Tracking to Measure Visibility(42:52) SEO Myths in the Age of AI(46:32) The Person Behind the Professional: Jes Scholz👉 Read the full article and explore additional insights: https://www.advancedwebranking.com/blog/building-brand-salience-in-age-of-aiWhere to find Jes ScholzLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jes-scholz/ X: https://x.com/jes_scholz Threads: https://www.threads.net/@jes.scholz Blueskye: https://bsky.app/profile/jes-scholz.bsky.social Website: https://www.jesscholz.com/ Where to find Gianluca Fiorelli Linkedin:https://www.linkedin.com/in/gianlucafiorelli/ X: https://x.com/gfiorelli1 Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/gfiorelli1.bsky.social Website: https://iloveseo.net/ Made with ❤️by Advanced Web Ranking, the people behind the world's most accurate and longest-standing rank tracker.Get your free 30-day trial and find your true visibility in organic search for any market: https://www.advancedwebranking.com/Be sure to subscribe for more actionable marketing and SEO tutorials: https://www.youtube.com/@advancedwebranking
In this episode of The Search Session, Gianluca Fiorelli is joined by longtime friend and renowned Italian SEO expert Giorgio Taverniti for a conversation packed with fresh perspectives on the evolving search landscape. Giorgio introduces the concept of liquid search, where Google reshapes and re-renders content dynamically within its own ecosystem, and explores the power of inspirational intent—an often-overlooked driver of user behavior. He also discusses the rise of resolutive intent and how understanding the essence of content is becoming essential in an AI-driven world.From the role of creators and high-value product detail pages to building presence across platforms like YouTube and Google Discover, Giorgio offers actionable insights for modern SEOs. Instead of pushing for a complete overhaul, he encourages a mindset of experimentation: blending structured data with deep, meaningful content to stay relevant. It’s an insightful and inspiring conversation—one that brings both clarity and warmth to where search is headed next.This is the 22nd episode of: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL_sm3ydVBxdAJ84k2qsH1LkTDbtbdNrGh Here's what you'll learn in this episode:(00:45) Meet Our Guest: Giorgio Taverniti(03:13) What Is Liquid Search?(05:52) Understanding How Google Reformats Content: Form vs. Essence(08:04) Expanding Beyond Google and the Role of “Resolutive” and “Inspirational” Intent(13:14) Satisfying Beneficial Purpose as the Foundation of Page Quality(15:39) The AI Search Race: Who Will Win for Giorgio?(19:20) Is Search the Main Use of LLMs? Giorgio Explores AI vs. Traditional Search(23:49) What “Query Fan-Out” Means for SEOs(29:48) Lessons from Amazon and Platform-First Thinking(32:07) YouTube, Creators, and the Future of Publishers(38:59) Hyper-Personalization & Memory in AI Search(41:36) How Sessions Become Continuous Interactions(45:59) The Foundational Importance of Continous Learning (and Teaching) in SEO(50:40) The Fireside Questionnaire👉 Read the full article and explore additional insights: https://www.advancedwebranking.com/blog/the-seo-age-of-liquid-search Where to find Giorgio TavernitiLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/giorgiotave X: https://x.com/giorgiotave Website: https://www.giorgiotaverniti.it/ Where to find Gianluca Fiorelli Linkedin:https://www.linkedin.com/in/gianlucafiorelli/ X: https://x.com/gfiorelli1 Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/gfiorelli1.bsky.social Website: https://iloveseo.net/ Made with ❤️by Advanced Web Ranking, the people behind the world's most accurate and longest-standing rank tracker.Get your free 30-day trial and find your true visibility in organic search for any market: https://www.advancedwebranking.com/Be sure to subscribe for more actionable marketing and SEO tutorials: https://www.youtube.com/@advancedwebranking
Is AI the biggest disruption to SEO—or the start of its next evolution?In this episode of The Search Session, host Gianluca Fiorelli welcomes Aleyda Solís, internationally renowned SEO consultant and speaker, for a deep dive into how AI is reshaping the world of search.Aleyda shares her optimistic and practical take on the future of SEO in an AI-driven landscape—emphasizing that while things are changing fast, there’s no need to panic. SEO isn’t dead; it’s evolving. From chunk-based content strategies to adapting for new interfaces, she explains how to build on what we already know and stay effective in the face of change.Whether you’re just starting out or leading large-scale SEO efforts, this episode offers valuable insights, strategies, and career advice to help you navigate what’s next—with clarity, flexibility, and curiosity.This is the 21st episode of: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL_sm3ydVBxdAJ84k2qsH1LkTDbtbdNrGh Here's what you'll learn in this episode:(00:26) Meet Our Guest: Aleyda Solis(02:13) How SEO Feels in 2025(08:51) How Aleyda Is Guiding Clients Through Uncertainty(16:43) Dealing with AI Overviews and Traffic Decoupling(22:16) How Aleyda Uses AI in Her Workflow(25:44) Best Practices for SEO in the Age of AI(34:19) Aleyda’s Process: Starting a New Client Engagement(42:36) What Aleyda Wishes She’d Known in 2006 About Productivity, Testing, and Outcomes(46:54) Quickfire Questions: Getting to Know Aleyda👉 Read the full article and explore additional insights:https://www.advancedwebranking.com/blog/adapting-old-seo-rules-to-the-new-ai-search Where to find Aleyda SolísLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aleyda/ X: https://x.com/aleyda Website: https://www.aleydasolis.com/ Where to find Gianluca Fiorelli Linkedin:https://www.linkedin.com/in/gianlucafiorelli/ X: https://x.com/gfiorelli1 Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/gfiorelli1.bsky.social Website: https://iloveseo.net/ Made with ❤️by Advanced Web Ranking, the people behind the world's most accurate and longest-standing rank tracker.Get your free 30-day trial and find your true visibility in organic search for any market: https://www.advancedwebranking.com/Be sure to subscribe for more actionable marketing and SEO tutorials: https://www.youtube.com/@advancedwebranking