#389 AI Search Still Runs on SEO Authority

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AI search is rewriting the rules of digital visibility, trust, and persuasion. Host Darren Pulsifer sits down with SEO and AI expert Kevin C. Roy to unpack how search, content credibility, and local ranking are changing in the age of AI. They explore practical ways businesses can build authority, improve AI SEO, and stay visible in an increasingly automated information landscape. ## Key Takeaways - AI search still relies heavily on credibility, relevance, and authority signals — not just keywords. - Strong SEO foundations continue to matter for AI visibility, especially when content is logically organized and well linked. - Author bios, consistent naming, and external mentions help establish subject matter expertise for AI systems. - Internal linking and topical clusters make it easier for both search engines and AI models to understand your site. - Local businesses should not ignore Google Maps, reviews, and review responses, since local SEO remains a major visibility driver. - High-authority, relevant links from trusted sources can still boost rankings and strengthen trust signals. ## Chapters - 00:00 Introduction to AI search and digital persuasion - 02:10 Kevin C. Roy’s background in early web and SEO - 07:05 How AI search is changing visibility and rankings - 11:20 Why authority, credibility, and E-E-A-T still matter - 16:15 Building logical site structure and internal links - 21:30 Using author bios, mentions, and external proof - 27:10 Local SEO, Google Maps, and review strategies - 32:40 Final advice for businesses navigating AI and SEO