#462 AI and SEO: How We're Adapting to Google's Search Shift (ft. Patrick Scully)
Release Date: 06/18/2025
#462 AI and SEO: How We're Adapting to Google's Search Shift (ft. Patrick Scully)
Contractor Growth Network
In this episode of the Contractor Growth Network podcast, Sean Holleran and SEO expert Patrick dive into how AI is reshaping search—and what that means for contractors relying on SEO. They break down the shift from traditional keyword ranking to AI-powered answer engines like ChatGPT and Google’s AI Overview, and explain how to structure your content to still get found. Whether you’re wondering if Google is dead (it’s not) or how to optimize for tools like Perplexity and Bing, this episode will help you stay ahead of the curve. Key Takeaways AI Search Is Changing the Game Google and...
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#461 How to Measure SEO Performance & ROI for Contractors (ft. Patrick Scully)
Contractor Growth Network
Are you paying for SEO but not seeing results? Patrick, CGN’s in-house SEO specialist, joins us to expose the truth behind SEO strategies that don’t work—and how to tell if your current SEO investment is really paying off. We break down how to measure SEO performance the right way, what bad SEO looks like, and the key tools every contractor should have access to. Key Takeaways: - The 3 (actually 4) pillars of SEO: Technical, Content, Off-Page, and Local SEO - What SEO ROI really means and how to calculate it - How to set SEO goals that align with business growth - Red flags that your SEO...
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#460 How to Drive Technology Adoption in Your Construction Business (ft. Dr. Anna Hunter)
Contractor Growth Network
In this episode,Logan Shinholser interviews Dr. Anna Hunter, Director of Learning & Development at JobTread, to unpack how human behavior directly impacts digital adoption in construction companies. Anna explains why technology is only as effective as its implementation, how to create true team buy-in, and how contractors can avoid wasting thousands on unused tools. The conversation dives into key behavioral strategies like building software champions, structuring healthy incentives, and identifying root problems before investing in tech. With practical analogies and tactical steps, this...
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#459 Google Business Profile Optimization Best Practices for Ranking on Google Maps
Contractor Growth Network
Overview Want to know why some contractors dominate local search while others don't even show up? In this episode of the CGN Podcast, we sit down with CGN's SEO Manager, Stephanie, to walk you through how to optimize your Google Business Profile (formerly Google My Business) and turn it into a lead-generating machine. From avoiding common mistakes that lead to suspension, to learning how to rank in Google Maps, this episode is packed with actionable steps for contractors serious about growing their local presence online. Episode Highlights What is a Google Business Profile (GBP) and why it...
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#458 The 6 Biggest Remodeling Business Struggles & How to Fix Them (ft. Kyle Hunt)
Contractor Growth Network
In this episode of the Contractor Growth Network podcast, Logan Shinholser sits down with Kyle Hunt, remodeling business coach and founder of Remodelers on the Rise. Kyle breaks down his signature "Remodelers Roadmap"—a six-system framework designed to simplify and strengthen every core aspect of a remodeling business. From financials and marketing to people and operations, Kyle shares actionable advice and mindset shifts that help remodelers move from chaos to clarity in their business strategy. Key Takeaways: Start with Strong Financials Kyle emphasizes that a healthy remodeling business...
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#457 How Pre-Construction Systems Create Control & Profit (ft. Todd Dawalt)
Contractor Growth Network
In this episode of the Contractor Growth Network podcast, Logan Shinholser talks with Todd Dawalt, founder of Construction Leading Edge and host of The Construction Leading Edge Podcast. Together, they dive into the dangerous trap many contractors fall into, doing “just enough to start” (JETS)—and why that mentality holds businesses back from sustainable growth. Todd shares how building robust pre-construction systems, documenting processes, and creating real clarity in communication can make the difference between chaos and control on a jobsite. Drawing from his years of coaching and...
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#456 Endless Customer Acquisition in the AI Era (ft. Marcus Sheridan)
Contractor Growth Network
AI is changing the way customers search—and smart contractors are adapting. In this episode of the Contractor Growth Network Podcast, Logan Shinholser sits down with Marcus Sheridan (They Ask, You Answer) to discuss the future of customer acquisition in the AI era. Discover how Marcus’s new book, Endless Customers, builds on his previous work to help businesses master modern search habits, use video effectively, and diversify beyond just Google. Key Takeaways: What "Search Everywhere Optimization" means for your business How contractors should adapt to AI tools like ChatGPT Why...
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#455 Why Client Testimonials Are Essential for Contractor Success (ft. Ian Miclean)
Contractor Growth Network
Client testimonials can be the most powerful marketing tool for contractors—but are you using them effectively? In this episode of the Contractor Growth Network Podcast, Sean sits down with Ian Miclean to break down why testimonials are critical for building trust, attracting leads, and standing out from the competition. Key Takeaways: Why testimonials outperform traditional marketing for contractors The difference between testimonials and online reviews (Angi, Google, etc.) Where to use testimonials—ads, websites, email marketing & more The best time to ask for a testimonial (hint:...
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#454 How to Make Your Website Generate More Leads (ft. Ian Miclean)
Contractor Growth Network
In this episode of the Contractor Growth Network Podcast, Sean sits down with Ian Miclean, CGN's Director of Marketing, to break down website best practices for contractors. Your website is your #1 sales tool, but if it’s not structured correctly, it could be hurting your business instead of generating leads. Ian shares essential Website 101 tips, covering: The real role of a contractor’s website and how to optimize it for leads Common website mistakes that turn away potential clients SEO basics to improve visibility on Google The importance of high-quality images & videos for...
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#453 Building Luxury Client Experiences That Drive Referrals (ft. Devon Vought)
Contractor Growth Network
In this episode of the Contractor Growth Network Podcast, Logan sits down with Devon Vought, owner of Vought Construction, to uncover the secrets behind his success in the luxury home market. Devon shares how he elevated his construction business by focusing on exceptional client experiences and maintaining premium service standards. From charging $1,200 per square foot for new builds to hosting housewarming parties for clients, Devon reveals how personalized touches and meticulous attention to detail have helped him attract high-end clientele and generate consistent word-of-mouth referrals. ...
info_outlineIn this episode of the Contractor Growth Network podcast, Sean Holleran and SEO expert Patrick dive into how AI is reshaping search—and what that means for contractors relying on SEO. They break down the shift from traditional keyword ranking to AI-powered answer engines like ChatGPT and Google’s AI Overview, and explain how to structure your content to still get found. Whether you’re wondering if Google is dead (it’s not) or how to optimize for tools like Perplexity and Bing, this episode will help you stay ahead of the curve.
Key Takeaways
AI Search Is Changing the Game
Google and ChatGPT are rewriting how people search:
- AI now scans for concise answers, not full-page rankings.
- Questions and paragraph snippets matter more than ever.
- It’s no longer just about clicks—being the answer is the goal.
Concise Answers Beat Long-Form Hooks
Content must lead with the answer:
- Gone are the days of slow storytelling intros.
- Start with the clear, factual response—then build context.
- This helps tools like Google AI and ChatGPT surface your content.
Google Isn’t Dead, It’s Adapting
Despite the hype, traditional SEO still matters:
- Google still dominates local and service-based searches.
- Schema, page speed, links, and on-page SEO are still relevant.
- Now it’s about blending classic SEO with AI-readiness.
Search Everywhere Optimization
It’s no longer about ranking on one platform:
- Get reviews on Bing, Angi, Houzz, and Facebook—not just Google.
- Claim and optimize your Bing Places listing.
- YouTube videos (with transcripts) are also being surfaced in AI answers.
AI Loves Structure and Fresh Data
Make your content AI-scannable:
- Use schema markup to define FAQs, videos, and pages.
- Replace large paragraphs with bullet points or tables.
- Update outdated blog posts for relevance and accuracy.
Memorable Quotes
“If you’re not found everywhere, you’re not really found at all.”
“The best answer wins now—not the biggest website.”
“Google isn’t dead. It’s just changing the rules—and fast.”
Actionable Advice
- Rewrite for Answers: Lead with a concise answer before diving into storytelling.
- Use Schema Markup: Help AI interpret your FAQs, videos, and images.
- Diversify Reviews: Get client reviews across Google, Bing, Angi, and Houzz.
- Update Your Old Content: Refresh data, fix broken links, and add question-style headings.
- Test It Yourself: Search on ChatGPT, Google AI, and Perplexity as if you're a client.
Meta Description:
SEO is changing fast. Learn how AI tools like ChatGPT and Google SGE are shifting search—and how to adapt your content to keep showing up and driving leads.