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Greg 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 roas

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Darren 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.

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In 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.

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