Can Small Businesses Win at Search in 2026? Moz's Tom Capper Explains How

Search engine optimization, or SEO, has changed more in the last two years than the previous ten, and small businesses are feeling it. Gene Marks sits down with Tom Capper of Moz to explain what actually works now, and what's no longer worth your time when it comes to organic search. Tom breaks down why your competitors' websites, local reviews, and even Wikipedia are suddenly part of your search strategy, how to show up when customers ask ChatGPT instead of Google, and what it takes to build a brand strong enough to rank in 2026.

Simplify your business operations. Learn how Paychex can handle your HR and payroll so you can focus on what counts: https://bit.ly/3VtM6bs

Have a topic idea? Share it at https://payx.me/thrivetopics

Topics include:00:00 – Episode preview and guest introduction02:16 – What changed in search since 201805:53 – Defining “surface area” in search07:32 – Shrinking organic search real estate10:03 – Is organic search less important now?13:32 – Domain authority vs. brand authority16:06 – Why having a brand matters more now18:19 – Ads inside AI platforms22:03 – Agents and the future “bot visitor” to your site26:25 – Wrap up and thank you

#BusinessPodcast #Entrepreneurship #SmallBusiness #iHeartRadio #ApplePodcastTips#SpotifyPodcasts

DISCLAIMER:The information presented in this podcast, and that is further provided by the presenter, should not be considered legal or accounting advice, and should not substitute for legal, accounting, or other professional advice in which the facts and circumstances may warrant. We encourage you to consult legal counsel as it pertains to your own unique situation(s) and/or with any specific legal questions you may have.