The Near Memo

Send us Fan MailIn Part 2 of Near Media’s conversation with Garrett Sussman, the discussion shifts from AI personalization theory to the real-world impact on local search, SEO, reviews, attribution, and marketing strategy.Garrett joins Greg Sterling and Mike Blumenthal to explore how Google’s growing use of behavioral data, Gmail, Calendar, Maps, reviews, and AI Mode could fundamentally reshape local discovery.The group discusses:AI-driven local recommendationsWhy direct mail showed up in AI ModeThe future of Google Business ProfilesHow marketers should rethink SEO measurementPersona-based AI testingReviews and reputation in AI searchWhether AI will ultimately simplify or complicate marketingThis episode is both a warning and a roadmap for marketers navigating the shift from traditional search to the coming personalized AI-driven discovery.Subscribe to our newsletters and other content at https://www.nearmedia.co/subscribe/

Send us Fan MailIs Google getting too personal? In this episode of the Near Memo, Greg Sterling and Mike Blumenthal are joined by Garrett Sussman (iPullRank) to discuss his provocative 12-month study on AI personalization. We dive deep into how Google’s "AI Mode" uses your Gmail, Photos, and Calendar to tailor results—and why "unopened emails" might be influencing what you see next.Subscribe to our newsletters and other content at https://www.nearmedia.co/subscribe/

Send us Fan MailJoin our celebrity local SEO panel—Claudia Tomina, Adam Dorfman, and Darren "The Canadian" Shaw—as they explore "Ask Maps," Google’s AI-powered conversational interface for local search. We demo the new desktop UI, discuss how hyper-personalization is changing user behavior, and reveal why "content freshness" is now the most critical strategy for local businesses to stay relevant in an AI-driven world.Subscribe to our newsletters and other content at https://www.nearmedia.co/subscribe/

Send us Fan MailGreg and Mike discuss the shifting landscape of local search. From the FTC’s latest crackdown on incentivized reviews to Yelp’s attempt to fast-forward their antitrust case against Google using recent federal rulings. We also explore the expansion of LSAs and the transition from the "Local Pack" to AI-driven "Ask Maps."Subscribe to our newsletters and other content at https://www.nearmedia.co/subscribe/

Send us Fan MailGoogle just changed the rules on reviews—and businesses may already be getting penalized. Meanwhile, Meta is projected to overtake Google in ad revenue, despite ongoing legal battles and ethical concerns.In this episode, Mike Blumenthal and Greg Sterling break down:• Google’s new review enforcement signals• Why marketers are frustrated with rising ad costs and unclear ROI• The surprising shift toward AI-driven search (ChatGPT, Ask Maps)• Who actually wins the AI race—and why it may not be who you thinkSubscribe to our newsletters and other content at https://www.nearmedia.co/subscribe/

Send us Fan MailThis episode explores how Google actually uses click data (despite years of denial) and how that reality intersects with the rise of AI Overviews. Cyrus Shepherd connects the dots between antitrust trial revelations, API leaks, and patents, showing that click behavior—especially “last longest click”—is a core ranking signal.The discussion then shifts to how AI Overviews are reshaping search:Reducing traditional clicksForcing Google to predict user behavior with less dataIncreasing the importance of brand, task completion, and engagement signalsFor local businesses and SEOs, the takeaway is clear:👉 Winning now means owning the user journey, driving brand searches, and optimizing for task completion—not just rankings.Subscribe to our newsletters and other content at https://www.nearmedia.co/subscribe/

Send us Fan MailIn Part 2, Steve Wiideman joins Greg Sterling and Mike Blumenthal to cut through the AI hype and explain what’s actually working in multi-location SEO today.Despite growing attention on AI tools and “agentic commerce,” the real drivers of visibility are still foundational: intent-driven content, strong review signals, and brand awareness.They also explore how zero-click search is changing attribution, why websites are becoming data sources for AI, and what local search will look like in the next 3–5 years.Subscribe to our newsletters and other content at https://www.nearmedia.co/subscribe/

Send us Fan MailWhat does it really take to scale SEO across hundreds (or thousands) of locations?In this episode of the Near Memo, Greg Sterling and Mike Blumenthal are joined by Steve Wiideman to unpack the operational, strategic, and technical realities of multi-location SEO.They explore testing frameworks, content strategies, franchise challenges, reviews, imagery, and the evolving nature of search behavior.If you manage local SEO at scale, this is a must-listen.Subscribe to our newsletters and other content at https://www.nearmedia.co/subscribe/

Send us Fan MailGoogle Business Profile impressions are dropping fast—but conversions aren’t.In this Near Memo episode, Greg Sterling, Mike Blumenthal, and Adam Dorfman unpack BirdEye’s latest data and explore what’s really changing in local search.From AI Overviews and LLM-driven discovery to Google’s new Ask Maps interface, they examine how search behavior is shifting—and why Google still controls the final decision point.They also dig into:Category vs brand search behaviorIndustry-level engagement differencesThe evolving role of reviews in AI-driven resultsApple Maps as a quiet challengerIf you’re trying to understand how AI is reshaping local SEO, this episode connects the dots.Subscribe to our newsletters and other content at https://www.nearmedia.co/subscribe/

Send us Fan MailIn this archive episode of the Near Memo podcast, Darren Shaw of Whitespark joins Mike Blumenthal, Greg Sterling, and David Mihm to discuss the influential Local Search Ranking Factors study.The panel breaks down how the survey works, what has changed in local search, and how the rise of AI interfaces like ChatGPT and Gemini could reshape how businesses are discovered online.They explore:Why review volume and recency drive rankingsHow behavioral signals may outweigh traditional SEO factorsWhether links are becoming less importantWhy Google’s behavioral data advantage mattersThe role of expert lists and third-party citations in AI searchThis episode offers a snapshot of local search at a moment of major transition that still resonates 6 months later.Subscribe to our newsletters and other content at https://www.nearmedia.co/subscribe/

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of the Near Memo podcast, Greg Sterling and Mike Blumenthal host a panel discussion with Eric Levine (Leadwise HQ, former Google LSA team), Claudia Tomina (Reputation Arm), Matt Casady (Sterling Sky), and Crystal Horton (Google Business Profile Platinum Product Expert).Together the panel explores how agencies are actually managing LSAs for clients today.Topics include:• The real ranking factors behind Local Service Ads• Whether LSAs are still a DIY product or require agency expertise• How agencies price and manage LSA services• Fraud, verification challenges, and fake listings• Lead quality and the removal of the lead dispute feature• What separates successful LSA campaigns from failed ones• How LSAs may evolve as AI search and brand discovery reshape local searchThe conversation also dives into the agency economics of LSAs — from consulting models to flat fee management and performance expectations in competitive markets like personal injury law.If you’re an agency, consultant, or in-house marketer managing LSAs for clients, this panel discussion offers practical insights into how the product really works.Subscribe to our newsletters and other content at https://www.nearmedia.co/subscribe/

Send us Fan MailGoogle AI & Click Economics Google is replacing structured GBP data with AI-generated summaries, nudging users into AI Mode, and expanding monetization pathways. Aleyda Solis’ study and Near Media research show ads — especially LSAs — are siphoning clicks.Data Moats & Scraping Crackdowns Google restricts scraping, disrupting SerpAPI. The move reinforces Google’s data advantage against ChatGPT and Perplexity while signaling an increasingly closed ecosystem.Reviews, Inflation & Consumer Backlash (22:00–36:00)Yelp’s Trust Report and BrightLocal’s 2026 study show persistent fraud, rising consumer anger, review inflation in legal, and AI becoming the third source of recommendations.Subscribe to our newsletters and other content at https://www.nearmedia.co/subscribe/

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Near Memo, Rand Fishkin joins Greg Sterling, Mike Blumenthal, and David Mihm to unpack the future of AI search, brand visibility, and digital measurement.Is AI rank tracking possible? Are zero-click journeys killing websites? And how should local businesses measure marketing performance in a world where attribution is breaking down?Rand shares new research on AI brand visibility across ChatGPT, Claude, and Google AI, discusses why performance marketing metrics are eroding, and explains where brands should actually invest their energy in 2026.This is a deep dive into the changing economics of search.Subscribe to our newsletters and other content at https://www.nearmedia.co/subscribe/

Send us Fan MailGoogle Local Service Ads have become one of the most powerful placements in local search — especially in competitive verticals like personal injury law.But what actually drives ranking and performance?In this episode, we examine the real mechanics behind LSAs: review cadence, responsiveness, bidding structure, and the psychology of visual presentation. We explore how headshots and photo sequencing influence trust, why logos don’t convert, and how review manipulation creates competitive distortion.LSAs reward operational excellence more than aggressive spending — and understanding the role of visual trust may be the difference between visibility and invisibility.Subscribe to our newsletters and other content at https://www.nearmedia.co/subscribe/

Send us Fan MailLocal Services Ads have become the “top-of-the-page” battleground for high-value local categories—especially professional services. In this episode, Greg Sterling and Mike Blumenthal talk with former LSA team member Eric Levine about how LSAs evolved, what really influences rank, and how Google’s lead marketplace mechanics shape outcomes.    We break down “request multiple options,” lead billing, the big ranking signals (reviews, responsiveness, radius/service area), why LSAs often win user attention over the local pack, and how photos should be chosen and structured to match user decision-making.Subscribe to our newsletters and other content at https://www.nearmedia.co/subscribe/

Send us Fan MailAI isn’t killing search — it’s reshaping how people discover, evaluate, and choose businesses.In this in terview with Crystal Carter of Wix, we unpack how large language models, AI assistants, and emerging “agent” experiences are changing consumer behavior, local search, and brand visibility. From ChatGPT and Google’s AI-driven results to personalization, intent modeling, and task completion, we explore what actually changes — and what doesn’t.We also dig into:• Why AI acts more like a complement to search than a replacement• How “choice” and “consideration” evolve in AI-first experiences• What happens when interfaces collapse research, comparison, and action into one flow• Why local, reviews, and brand signals still matter — just differently• What businesses should prepare for as agents begin acting on behalf of usersIf you care about search, local, UX, or how consumers actually make decisions, this is the conversation you want to hear.Subscribe to our newsletters and other content at https://www.nearmedia.co/subscribe/

Send us Fan MailClaudia Tomina joins Greg Sterling and Mike Blumenthal to unpack what the Google API leak reveals about local rankings, why reviews are being removed at scale, and how AI Overviews, Gemini, and agentic shopping are pushing transactions into Google’s AI interfaces. A must-listen for anyone managing a Google Business Profile in 2026.Subscribe to our newsletters and other content at https://www.nearmedia.co/subscribe/

Send us Fan MailAI tools are changing how consumers discover local businesses, but Google remains the system of record for trust, reviews, directions, and contact. This conversation explores how AI reduces cognitive load, concentrates visibility, and amplifies brand demand—forcing local marketers to rethink SEO beyond rankings.Subscribe to our newsletters and other content at https://www.nearmedia.co/subscribe/

Send us Fan MailLocal SEO, reviews, and Google LSAs are no longer working the way law firms expect. In this episode of Near Memo, Gyi Tsakalakis (AttorneySync) joins Mike Blumenthal and Greg Sterling to explain why rankings and traffic are misleading, how LSAs reshape legal demand, why review cheating is rampant, and how brand trust has become the real competitive moat.If you’re relying on Google visibility alone to grow a law firm, this conversation is a wake-up call.Subscribe to our newsletters and other content at https://www.nearmedia.co/subscribe/

Send us Fan MailGoogle’s AI Mode and ChatGPT search are reshaping local discovery. This deep dive interview with Michel van Luijtelaar of GMBapi explains what’s changing, how users behave inside AI results, and what local businesses must do now to stay visible and trusted.Subscribe to our newsletters and other content at https://www.nearmedia.co/subscribe/

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of The Near Memo, Greg Sterling and Mike Blumenthal talk with Michel of GMB API about what new data reveals regarding review removals, fraud detection, incentivized reviews, and regional legal differences across Europe and the U.S.The conversation explores why reviews are increasingly central to AI-driven search experiences, how enforcement tools can unintentionally harm small businesses, and what this all means for trust, visibility, and competition in local search.Subscribe to our newsletters and other content at https://www.nearmedia.co/subscribe/

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, Jes Scholz joins Greg Sterling and Mike Blumenthal for a deep dive into the forces reshaping search: AI agents, the rise of conversational interfaces, the 60/40 brand-activation model, content freshness, multimodal distribution, and why your database — not your website — may determine your competitive future.Jes explains what marketers must do now: update your content strategy, test your site with agents, fix your UX friction, and prepare your database for natural-language inputs. Essential listening for SEOs, CMOs, and local businesses navigating the next wave of digital change.Subscribe to our newsletters and other content at https://www.nearmedia.co/subscribe/

Send us Fan MailIn this packed episode, Jes Scholz joins Greg Sterling and Mike Blumenthal to explore where AI search is really headed. From conversational interfaces replacing the search box to the competitive implications of Gemini 3, Jes explains why Google’s index is shrinking, why publishers must evolve, and why consensus around brand salience — not keywords — decides visibility.We also cover local search dynamics, review-based consensus modeling, multi-touch attribution myths, and how to create content that earns true distribution in 2025.Subscribe to our newsletters and other content at https://www.nearmedia.co/subscribe/

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of the Near Memo, Mike Blumenthal and Greg Sterling unpack Google’s dramatic shift toward an AI-first search ecosystem — including the rollout of Know Before you Go in Maps, ads in the new AI Mode in Search & Maps, and the introduction oof Gemini 3 what that means for personalization and marketers.We explore:• Google Maps’ new AI-powered interfaces — including Know Before You Go and the prominent “Ask” module that pulls data from reviews, websites, and third-party sources. We discuss how Google is reshaping the local experience by elevating AI-generated insights above traditional organic content.• Google’s new reviewer aliases and their implications — from anonymity and fraud concerns to how aliases complicate trust, moderation, business intelligence, and the already-confusing review ecosystem.• Ads quietly invading AI Mode — what early experiments show about ad placement, user behavior, declining click-through rates, and Google’s likely future ad units as the AI interface becomes the top of the SERP.• Google’s monopoly strategy in the AI race — including how Google is leveraging its scale, distribution, defaults, and product integrations to push Gemini over ChatGPT, claw back market share, and extend its dominance into AI search experiences despite weak antitrust remedies.Plus: The Near Media newsletter is going free.Subscribe to our newsletters and other content at https://www.nearmedia.co/subscribe/

Send us Fan MailGreg Gifford joins the Near Memo to break down his large-scale Local SEO study of 3,000 personal injury law firm's Google Business Profiles. He reveals what #1 ranked PI las firms are doing that #10 ranked practioners are not.  From review response rates and schema misfires to UTM tracking errors, the trio unpacks what’s real in local SEO and what’s hype. The episode closes with a lively debate about the AI-driven future of the SERP.Subscribe to our newsletters and other content at https://www.nearmedia.co/subscribe/

Send us Fan MailLocal SEO just got a major shake-up. In this episode, Darren Shaw of Whitespark joins Mike Blumenthal, David Mihm, and Greg Sterling to reveal key takeaways from the 2026 Local Search Ranking Factors study — including how AI search, behavioral signals, and reviews are changing the local game. Hear what really moves the needle, what’s fading, and where Google, Gemini, and ChatGPT fit into your future strategy.Subscribe to our newsletters and other content at https://www.nearmedia.co/subscribe/

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, Greg Sterling, Mike Blumenthal, and Celeste Gonzalez (Rickety Roo) dive into TikTok’s “Local Explorer” — a new review and discovery program inside the app. They explore how Gen Z’s shift toward TikTok and Instagram is reshaping local search, what the Adobe and SOCi studies reveal, and why authenticity may be TikTok’s edge over Google Reviews.You’ll learn:• How TikTok gamifies local reviews• Why 62 % of Gen Z prefer TikTok for finding local businesses• How to track TikTok referrals in GA4 & GSC• Why review authenticity and AI are changing SEO’s futureSubscribe to our newsletters and other content at https://www.nearmedia.co/subscribe/

Send us Fan MailIn Episode 229, Mike and Greg unpack Yelp’s revived antitrust lawsuit against Google and what it reveals about search dominance. They dive into Google’s “grounded” Gemini AI—supposedly tied to Maps data—and Mike’s test results showing how unreliable it still is. Finally, they explore ChatGPT’s new local results format, which borrows from Google Maps, and debate whether AI interfaces can ever be trusted to tell the truth.Subscribe to our newsletters and other content at https://www.nearmedia.co/subscribe/

Send us Fan MailAI is reshaping how businesses manage their locations, from adoption challenges to AI Overviews in Google Search, to the renewed importance of citations and directories. Mike Blumenthal, Greg Sterling, and Ana Martinez from Uberall discuss AI’s role in visibility, customer journeys, and local SEO strategy.Subscribe to our newsletters and other content at https://www.nearmedia.co/subscribe/

Send us Fan MailUberall’s CTO Ana Martinez joins Greg Sterling & Mike Blumenthal to reveal how the company is going “AI native with their Local Platform location management.” From internal culture shifts to new client-facing tools like UBI and Location Performance Score, learn how AI is reshaping products, teams, and customer expectations.Subscribe to our newsletters and other content at https://www.nearmedia.co/subscribe/

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of the Near Memo, Greg Sterling and Mike Blumenthal dig into Google Business Profile suspension increases over time, the broken state of reviews, and insights from Google’s Liz Reid on AI Overviews, AI Mode, and monetization. What do these changes mean for small businesses, SEOs, and consumers? Tune in for an unfiltered take.Subscribe to our newsletters and other content at https://www.nearmedia.co/subscribe/

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of the Near Memo, Mike and Greg break down:The rise of Google Business Profile review extortion scams 📉Google Maps’ new AR feature: See it. Snap it. Ask it. 🗺️Why ChatGPT still falls short for local search vs Google 🔎YouTube’s strategic role in Google’s AI & local marketing future ▶️👉 Subscribe for more insights on Google, AI, and local marketing.Subscribe to our newsletters and other content at https://www.nearmedia.co/subscribe/

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, Greg Sterling, Mike Blumenthal, and Barry Schwartz discuss various pressing topics in the digital marketing landscape, including the rise of local review ransom schemes, the ongoing debate about the state of the open web, and the implications of AI on search interfaces. They explore how Google's recent changes and the introduction of AI features are reshaping user experiences and the future of search. The conversation also touches on the challenges businesses face with review moderation and the impact of spam on search quality.Subscribe to our newsletters and other content at https://www.nearmedia.co/subscribe/

Send us Fan MailWe discuss Google’s new guidelines for Business Profile action links, the company’s conflicting statements about the health of the open web in an antitrust case, and Apple’s rumored partnership with Google’s Gemini to power Siri. Together, these stories highlight Google’s tightening grip on local businesses, the shifting economics of publishing, and how Apple’s AI ambitions could reshape search traffic and advertising revenue.Subscribe to our newsletters and other content at https://www.nearmedia.co/subscribe/

Send us Fan MailWe dig into when/where Google’s AI Overviews (AIOs) appear in local, how people actually split tasks across Google vs. ChatGPT, what the DOJ’s remedies mean for defaults, and a fresh case where a brand-new local biz triggered an AIO—plus practical takeaways.Subscribe to our newsletters and other content at https://www.nearmedia.co/subscribe/

Send us Fan MailMike Blumenthal and Greg Sterling discuss three hot-button topics:Consumer vs. industry perspectives on Google’s AI OverviewsHow review expectations differ from actual behavior in the legal verticalWhy Datos data shows AI growth isn’t displacing search usageSubscribe to our newsletters and other content at https://www.nearmedia.co/subscribe/

Send us Fan MailGoogle is consolidating Local Services Ads trust signals into a single verification badge — but is it really about trust or revenue? Greg and Mike discuss Google’s evolving ad strategy, the ongoing degradation of organic results, their "dark patterns" that elevate LSA usage and new BrightLocal data showing less than half of small businesses have claimed their Google Business Profiles. Plus: why email remains an overlooked channel, and whether AI tools like ChatGPT can realistically challenge Google in local.Subscribe to our newsletters and other content at https://www.nearmedia.co/subscribe/

Send us Fan MailIn part two of this interview, SEO veteran Will Scott of Search Influence joins Mike Blumenthal and Greg Sterling to unpack how AI is reshaping search, why semantic SEO matters, and how to use no-code automation tools to scale content. Learn how to barnacle onto high-authority sites, repurpose content across platforms, and adapt to an AI-first search world.Subscribe to our newsletters and other content at https://www.nearmedia.co/subscribe/

Send us Fan MailIn Part 1 of this interview, SEO veteran Will Scott joins Near Memo to unpack the rise of Barnacle SEO in a world reshaped by AI. We explore how content visibility, listicles, and trusted sources like Reddit and Yelp are influencing AI-generated responses. Plus, we debate the viability of “GEO” as a term, Google’s evolving narrative, and the role of automation tools in SEO.Subscribe to our newsletters and other content at https://www.nearmedia.co/subscribe/

Send us Fan MailGreg Sterling and Mike Blumenthal talk with mapping expert Goetz Weber about why today’s maps fail to deliver personalized, contextual experiences — and what needs to change. From intent modeling to the limits of monetization, from ChatGPT to Snap Maps, Goetz lays out a compelling vision for mapping 2.0: visual, social, and powered by AI. For relevant links and a transcript visit our site. Subscribe to our newsletters and other content at https://www.nearmedia.co/subscribe/

Send us Fan MailThis week, Greg and Mike dissect new data from Pew and Ahrefs showing how AI Overviews impact user click behavior, local pack visibility, and publisher traffic. They explore the branding mess of “AIO” vs. “GEO,” ChatGPT’s growing usefulness, and YouTube’s quiet dominance. Plus: a burrito search showdown and dishwasher repair gone AI.Subscribe to our newsletters and other content at https://www.nearmedia.co/subscribe/

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of the Near Memo, Greg Sterling and Mike Blumenthal dive into Google’s overhaul of its Business Profile dashboard notifications and why it's problematic, the rollout of Google’s AI-powered “Ask for Me” local quote feature, and ChatGPT’s growing impact on local search. Plus: Will businesses benefit from the Ask for Me feature?Subscribe to our newsletters and other content at https://www.nearmedia.co/subscribe/

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of the Near Memo, Greg Sterling and Mike Blumenthal discuss fresh insights into how consumers engage with local AI Overviews, explore the theory that ChatGPT may be using Google's search index, and dig into the explosive growth and influence of Google's Local Guides program. The discussion also touches on zero-click search, ad transparency, and the implications for local businesses. Sponsored by GatherUp.Subscribe to our newsletters and other content at https://www.nearmedia.co/subscribe/

Send us Fan MailGreg and Mike unpack the latest in local search: an uptick in suspensions, why AI overviews are shifting lower on SERPs, and what local businesses must do to thrive in an AI-dominated search world. Also, a pig roasSubscribe to our newsletters and other content at https://www.nearmedia.co/subscribe/

Send us Fan MailDarren Shaw of Whitespark returns to the Near Memo to talk with Mike and Greg about what’s actually working—and what’s not—in local SEO as AI begins reshaping consumer behavior. From the rise of first-party reviews to YouTube’s power for B2B lead gen, this episode tackles how agencies can prepare clients for a future beyond Google. They also dig into the limitations of ChatGPT’s local recommendations, where blogs still make sense, and what digital PR might look like for small businesses. Practical, honest, and forward-looking.Subscribe to our newsletters and other content at https://www.nearmedia.co/subscribe/

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, Mike and Greg break down three major developments shaping the local search and AI landscape. First, they tackle the growing wave of Google Business Profile suspensions caused by rigid, AI-driven video verification—where even legitimate businesses are getting flagged. They offer practical advice on how to avoid getting suspended and why field-based verification is now essential.Next, they explore new consumer survey data showing a significant rise in people using AI tools like ChatGPT and Gemini for local business discovery. But while AI wins early attention, most users still turn to Google Maps or Search to take action—creating a split-funnel dynamic that Google must navigate to protect its ad model.Finally, they unpack Apple’s WWDC announcements, noting the glaring absence of Siri. Instead of chasing ChatGPT, Apple is doubling down on privacy-first, on-device AI. Meanwhile, Siri continues to underperform as voice UX expectations are being reshaped by tools like ChatGPT Voice.This episode is for marketers, SEOs, and local business owners trying to stay ahead of fast-moving changes in AI, search, and platform strategy.Subscribe to our newsletters and other content at https://www.nearmedia.co/subscribe/

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of The Near Memo, Greg Sterling and Mike Blumenthal break down some of the biggest tectonic shifts happening at the intersection of AI, search, and antitrust law. The focal point? Google's claim that its Gemini AI now boasts 350 million monthly users. But what exactly counts as a user—and does stuffing Gemini into every app and product really mean it’s being used?Greg and Mike dig deep into how Google is leveraging its product ecosystem—Chrome, Gmail, Workspace, Maps, Android, and Search—to inflate AI engagement numbers. The two unpack why Gemini still underperforms compared to ChatGPT and Claude, and what that gap reveals about Google’s AI rollout and user trust.They also dive into the implications of the Department of Justice’s antitrust remedies following the conclusion of the Google search monopoly trial. What could it mean for the web if Google is forced to divest Chrome—or even Maps? The conversation explores Google’s use of default deals, bundling tactics, and how it might use its market power to dominate AI, just as it has search.Along the way, they highlight YouTube’s overlooked role as a future-first search engine, powered by how-to content, brand channels, and a closed ecosystem that Google fully controls. And they dissect how local guides, AI-driven local search results, and Google's declining web traffic referrals are reshaping digital marketing as we know it.Whether you're a marketer, SEO professional, journalist, or tech policy nerd—this episode gives you a grounded, provocative look at what’s really going on in the AI arms race.🔑 Key Takeaways:Google’s Gemini user claim is deeply flawed. 350 million “monthly users” likely includes passive, backend interactions across the Google ecosystem—not active engagement.Gemini underperforms compared to ChatGPT and Claude. Independent research and user experience both point to Gemini lagging behind in quality and versatility.DOJ is pushing for serious remedies—like divesting Chrome. The antitrust trial may force Google to give up core assets or radically change how it bundles and distributes products.Google’s biggest moat might be local. With 150M local guides powering Maps and local profiles, Google's real strength lies in place-based information no one else has.The old web deal is dying. Google's former value exchange—“we send you traffic in exchange for your content”—is being replaced with “we scrape your site, and you buy the ads.”YouTube may become the dominant search engine. For how-to content and product discovery, YouTube beats traditional search—and Google controls every part of it.Rand Fishkin’s desktop-only data misses key insights. App usage and mobile behavior are reshaping how users interact with AI, but current reporting often overlooks this.The SERP is evolving into AI Mode. Google’s current hybrid of AI Overviews + Knowledge Graph is transforming how users experience local and informational queries.Brands must diversify now. With Google traffic likely to decline, businesses need to explore YouTube, TikTok, Perplexity, and other platforms—fast.🎧 Tune in for:Smart, unscripted analysisHonest takes on Google’s AI positioningReal-world marketing strategy implicationsPredictions for how the search landscape is evolvingSubscribe to our newsletters and other content at https://www.nearmedia.co/subscribe/

Send us Fan MailIn this jam-packed episode of The Near Memo, hosts Greg Sterling and Mike Blumenthal welcome back Adam Dorfman, VP of Product at BirdEye, for a timely deep dive into the ever-shifting world of local SEO, AI Overviews, and Google’s evolving search ecosystem.The trio unpacks the seismic shifts happening in local search, AI-generated results, and the new metrics that matter when “clicks” no longer rule. From how Google is leveraging its own ecosystem to dominate AI outputs, to whether schema markup, directories, or social media still matter, this episode serves up unfiltered takes and battle-tested advice for marketers, SEOs, and local business owners alike.🚨 Top Themes Covered:Google’s AI Overviews: Why AI is rewriting the search interface and what it means for local visibility.Urban vs. Rural Search Results: Why AI tools like ChatGPT might actually outperform Google Maps in lower-density areas.The End of Organic?: Google’s AI results are now 100% GBP (Google Business Profile) driven—with nearly zero room for traditional website links.Reviews Are the New Backlinks: How first- and third-party reviews (especially on platforms like Yelp and TripAdvisor) are now critical ranking factors in AI models.The Fragmented Funnel: TikTok and Instagram are eating the top of the funnel—Google is now the validator, not the discoverer.Metrics Reimagined: Why clicks are increasingly meaningless, and what to track instead—from CRM tie-ins to survey data and outcome-based KPIs.AI’s Role in Product & Strategy: How BirdEye and other platforms are rethinking their offerings to embed AI into every layer—from insights to actions.Old-School SEO vs. AI Optimization: Turns out, best practices haven’t changed much—good local SEO still wins, but it’s more critical than ever to focus on outcomes, not vanity metrics.💡 Key Takeaways:Local search isn’t dead—it’s evolving. AI is changing the game, but the fundamentals still matter: strong reviews, simple websites, quality listings, and running a great business.Your website still matters, even if it’s not driving direct clicks. It’s a core data source for AI and a validator for customers making high-stakes decisions.Directory presence is back in fashion—especially for verticals like travel, dining, and services. Yelp and TripAdvisor are still powerful in AI outputs.Forget tips and tricks. Stop obsessing over how to game AI results. Focus on real marketing, customer feedback, and operational excellence.AI visibility tracking is a new frontier. Ranking reports may be making a comeback—not for traffic predictions, but for understanding how you show up in AI-generated lists.📣 Whether you’re an SEO veteran, a SaaS marketer, a multi-location brand, or just trying to figure out where to spend your next marketing dollar, this episode offers tactical wisdom and strategic clarity on where local search is headed—and how to stay ahead.🎧 Brought to you by GatherUp – our thanks to this episode’s sponsor and a trusted leader in reputation management.Subscribe to The Near Memo for weekly insights at the intersection of search, social, local, and reputation.▶️ Follow us on:YouTubeApple PodcastsSpotifyLinkedInHave questions or feedback? Drop us a note at [email protected] Subscribe to our newsletters and other content at https://www.nearmedia.co/subscribe/

Send us Fan MailWelcome to Part 2 of our deep dive into the most revealing SEO and UX research of 2025.In this episode of the Near Memo podcast, Greg Sterling, Kevin Indig, and Eric Van Buskirk break down how users actually interact with AI Overviews on Google—and what that means for your SEO strategy moving forward.00:55 – “Trust over Traffic: The SEO Paradigm Shift”02:10 – “SEO as Traffic Cop, Not Traffic Driver”03:33 – “Reddit, YouTube & Beyond: Tactical SEO Musts”07:20 – “Google Killed the Small Guys”09:05 – “Google’s Fear-Driven Strategy”11:14 – “Redefining SEO Inside the Org”12:03 – “Click Recession and the Future of Metrics”13:31 – “Pitching the New SEO to Leadership”17:17 – “People Don’t Know LSAs Are Ads”20:22 – “Gen Z, TikTok, and the Platform Migration”22:23 – “ChatGPT Is the Train—You’re the Station”▶️ Missed Part 1? Watch it here → https://youtu.be/pjE3MwOLYcg ⸻🔥 What’s Inside This Episode:In this second installment, we focus on the tactical and organizational implications of new user behavior patterns revealed through a qualitative usability study. The study recorded and analyzed nearly 30 hours of real-world search behavior, and the findings are reshaping how smart marketers think about organic search, AI, and branding.From “click stagflation” to platform diversification, this episode delivers hard truths and actionable insights.🧠 Top Insights You’ll Take Away: • SEO isn’t dead—it’s evolved. Traditional traffic metrics are no longer reliable indicators of success. • Trust is now the first filter. Users skim, scroll, and click based on what (and who) they recognize and believe in. • Clicks ≠ Conversions. Welcome to the era of “click stagflation”—less traffic, but stable (or growing) business results. • Google is reacting, not leading. The rise of Reddit, YouTube, and AI Overviews is a defensive move to hold onto users. • Local trust signals matter more than ever. LSAs win clicks because users don’t realize they’re ads—they just trust the stars. • Brand awareness is the new SEO moat. If users don’t know or trust you before they search, you likely won’t earn their click. • SEO must align with social, content, and UX. It’s time for cross-functional “growth teams” that reflect real user journeys.⸻🔗 Links & Resources:📄 Full transcript of Part 2 → 📄 Part 1: Study methodology + foundational insights → https://youtu.be/pjE3MwOLYcg🧪 Read the study by Kevin Indig and Eric Van Buskirk → https://www.growth-memo.com/p/the-first-ever-ux-study-of-googles?ref=nearmedia.co🎙️ More from Near Memo →https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLmqwyOgNILWrALQo5FVdB6zlaEJiVyKS_⸻💬 What do YOU think?Are you still measuring SEO success with clicks? Have you updated your strategy for AI Overviews and multi-platform journeys? Drop your thoughts or questions below—let’s talk.⸻👍 Like, 💬 Comment, and 🔔 Subscribe to get more straight talk on search, SEO, and local marketing every week.#SEO #AIOverviews #DigitalMarketing #SearchTrends #ContentStrategy #GoogleSearch #UserExperience #NearMemo #KevinIndig #EricVanBuskirk #GregSterling #UXResearch #ChatGPT #TikTokSearch #TrustEconomySubscribe to our newsletters and other content at https://www.nearmedia.co/subscribe/

Send us Fan Mail🎙️ Trust Before Clicks: What Real Users Do With Google’s AI OverviewsWe’ve all seen the headlines: Google’s AI Overviews (AIOs) are changing search forever. But how do real people actually use them?In this episode of The Near Memo, we dive into the first behavioral UX study of Google’s AIOs, conducted by Kevin Indig and Eric Van Buskirk. The results? Totally eye-opening—and a little humbling for SEOs.This wasn’t another clickstream analysis. This was watching users scroll, click (or not), skim, and decide across 8 real-world search tasks. Think local searches, health queries, shopping comparisons—all captured through screen recordings, scroll logs, and detailed annotations.📊 Here’s What They Found:1. Clicks Are Not Conversions Only about 1 in 5 “final answers” came from AIOs. Most users finished their journey with traditional organic results, Reddit, YouTube, or maps. Clicking doesn’t always mean trusting—or converting.2. Trust Comes Before Relevance Users no longer scan the SERP for “the best answer.” They scan for brands they recognize and sources they trust. If they don’t know you, they scroll right past—even if you’re ranked #1.3. Reviews Are the Ultimate Shortcut In both local and shopping searches, people hunted for review stars. They scrolled back and forth just to find them. The takeaway? Reviews aren’t just helpful—they’re directional beacons in search.4. Most People Skim AIOs A whopping 86% of users skimmed AIOs. Unless the query was high-risk (think: health or finance), they treated the AI summary like a TL;DR intro and kept scrolling.5. Risk = Depth The more serious the query, the deeper the engagement. People spent more time reading, clicked more links to fact-check, and acted with more skepticism.6. AIO Links Are Largely Ignored Those little citation icons in AIOs? Most users didn’t touch them. Even large panels full of links got barely any engagement. Why? Because people didn’t perceive them as useful or actionable.7. Users Are Skeptical—But Still Satisfied Despite checking citations and bouncing around the page, users still reported high satisfaction with AIOs. Trust is sticky. If something “feels” complete, users stop looking—even if it’s flawed.8. Google Benefits from the Illusion Kevin and Eric argue that Google has long benefited from the mistaken belief that it’s the whole journey. In reality, search behavior is multi-touch, cross-platform, and often ends somewhere else entirely.🎯 Final Thought: Trust Is the New CTRIf your brand isn’t already in the user’s mind, your perfect answer won’t matter. Clicks are a vanity metric. Final answers are what really count.To win now, SEOs must:Build brand trust before the search startsBe visible across platforms (Reddit, YouTube, forums)Focus on reviews and SERP presenceUnderstand how different search intents drive behaviorThis is Part One of a two-part conversation. In Part Two, we unpack the strategic takeaways and what marketers should do next.Because in the era of AI Overviews, it’s not about ranking first—it’s about being the last place users need to go.Subscribe to our newsletters and other content at https://www.nearmedia.co/subscribe/