Episode #14: Is Topical Authority Still Worth Chasing In 2026?

In this episode of Forank Marketing, we dig into one of the most debated questions facing modern brands and marketers: is topical authority still worth chasing in 2026 or is it time to rethink how visibility and credibility are built online?Zoe Ashbridge and Leigh Buttrey unpack how the idea of “owning a topic” has evolved, why simply publishing more content is no longer enough, and what actually drives trust, relevance, and long-term growth today. Drawing on real-world experience, they explore what topical authority really means in practice and where many businesses go wrong when trying to build it.The conversation cuts through the noise to look at how audiences discover information now, why depth and consistency matter more than volume, and how brands can stay visible without burning time and budget chasing outdated tactics.We also discuss how smaller brands can compete, what signals genuinely build credibility, and how to think beyond short-term performance when shaping content and marketing strategies.Ideal for: marketers, founders, content strategists, and brand leaders who want to build authority that lasts not just traffic that fades.Topics covered:What topical authority actually means in 2026Why content volume alone no longer creates visibilityThe balance between expertise, trust, and discoverabilityCommon mistakes brands make when “chasing authority”Practical ways to build relevance without overcomplicating your strategyIf you’re questioning whether topical authority is still worth the effort or wondering how to approach it more intelligently this episode offers clarity, perspective, and actionable insight.📍Find us here:Website: https://www.forank.com/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@forank-marketingZoe’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zoeashbridge/Leigh’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leighbuttrey/🎙 Enjoying this episode?Show some love — like, comment, and subscribe to stay updated on future episodes!Interested in sponsoring an episode? Get in touch at [email protected]