Hey there! I have some exciting news to share with you. The Google Core Update has officially finished rolling out. In this article, we’ll discuss the impact of the update on AI content, the new A/B testing tool that YouTube is introducing for creators to choose the best thumbnail, and some amusing shenanigans involving hiring local people to create reviews for Amazon Influencer Program accounts. We’ll also delve into the ongoing Google trial in Europe and explore two fascinating niche websites, HTTP Status Dogs and Cornify.com. So, stick around for some interesting insights and updates in the world of SEO, affiliate marketing, and niche sites!
Welcome back to the Niche Pursuits podcast, where we cover the latest news in niche sites, SEO, and affiliate marketing. Today, we’re kicking things off with the announcement that the Google Core Update has completed its rollout. We’ll examine how this update may have affected AI content and delve into some interesting strategies for monitoring site performance after the update, including relying on ad networks instead of Google Analytics. Next, we’ll talk about YouTube’s new A/B testing tool for creators to choose the perfect video thumbnail. Plus, we have some intriguing stories about shiny object shenanigans, a Google trial in Europe, and some quirky niche websites like HTTP Status Dogs and Cornify.com. So, grab a cup of coffee and get ready to dive into this captivating episode!
Google Core Update Impact
The recent Google Core Update has finished rolling out, and many website owners are curious about its impact on their site’s performance. Traditionally, site owners would turn to Google Analytics to assess the impact of updates on their traffic and rankings. However, Jared Bauman, co-host of the Niche Pursuits podcast, suggests monitoring ad networks instead.
Jared explains that focusing on earnings rather than fluctuations in traffic can provide a clearer picture of how sites have weathered the storm. In a recent tweet, he shared his findings on three different sites using the ad network Raptive (also known as ad Thrive). One site experienced a significant 125% increase in traffic, resulting in a comparable increase in earnings. Another site saw a 12% drop in traffic but experienced an 18% decrease in earnings, indicating a greater impact on US traffic than international traffic. The third site remained relatively unchanged in terms of traffic but saw a 22% increase in earnings due to higher RPMs (revenue per thousand impressions).
These examples highlight the importance of considering the bottom line and focusing on the overall earnings rather than just traffic numbers. By monitoring ad networks and revenue, site owners can gain a better understanding of how the Google Core Update has affected their site’s performance.
Interestingly, the impact of the update on AI (artificial intelligence) content seems to be minimal. Despite the significant changes brought about by the core update, AI-generated content appears to have remained relatively unaffected. This is good news for websites that rely on AI-generated content, as they can continue to provide valuable and relevant information to their users without experiencing a significant negative impact from the update.
Overall, while the Google Core Update may have caused fluctuations in traffic for some sites, monitoring ad networks and focusing on earnings can provide a more accurate assessment of the update’s impact. Additionally, the minimal impact on AI content is reassuring for websites employing AI technology. By keeping a close eye on ad revenues and adjusting strategies accordingly, site owners can navigate through the changes brought about by the Google Core Update.
YouTube Thumbnail Choices
YouTube is introducing an A/B testing tool for creators to choose the best thumbnail for their videos. With this new feature, users will be able to upload three custom thumbnails, and YouTube will test them behind the scenes to determine which one performs the best. This tool is expected to be available to creators next year.
The ability to choose the perfect thumbnail for a video is essential for YouTubers as it can significantly impact click-through rates and video engagement. Thumbnails play a crucial role in attracting viewers and enticing them to click on a video. By offering an A/B testing tool, YouTube aims to empower creators to optimize their thumbnails and improve their video’s performance.
Jared and Spencer of the Niche Pursuits podcast see this as a positive move by YouTube. They believe that giving creators the ability to test different thumbnails and measure their effectiveness will ultimately lead to better content and more engaging videos. Creators can track the performance of their thumbnails and make data-driven decisions to enhance their video marketing strategy.
The introduction of the A/B testing tool showcases YouTube’s commitment to supporting its creator community and providing them with the tools they need to succeed on the platform. By empowering creators to choose the best thumbnail for their videos, YouTube is helping them stand out in a highly competitive space and maximize their video’s visibility and reach.
Shiny Object Shenanigans
On the Niche Pursuits podcast, Spencer Haws and Jared Bauman often discuss their side projects and entrepreneurial ventures. In a recent episode, they shared updates on their respective projects. Spencer has been working on his Amazon Influencer Program side hustle, while Jared has been focusing on the Weekend Growth YouTube channel and the challenges of creating content for YouTube.
Spencer shared about hiring local people to create reviews for his Amazon Influencer Program account, which currently has 453 videos. By hiring locals to provide authentic reviews, Spencer aims to enhance the credibility and trustworthiness of his content. This strategy aligns with the Amazon Influencer Program, which allows influencers to recommend products they genuinely use and love.
Jared, on the other hand, discussed his side project centered around the Weekend Growth YouTube channel. As a content creator, Jared faces the challenges of consistently producing high-quality videos and engaging with his audience. He seeks to grow his channel and expand his reach by focusing on content creation strategies that resonate with his target audience.
Both Spencer and Jared’s side projects reflect their entrepreneurial spirit and their dedication to exploring new opportunities. By sharing their experiences and insights, they provide valuable inspiration and guidance to their listeners who may be embarking on their own side ventures.
HTTP Status Dogs
HTTP Status Dogs is a unique and entertaining website that showcases HTTP status codes using dog images. Created as a fun niche site, httpstatusdogs.com features pictures of dogs that correspond to different HTTP status codes. Each status code is represented by a specific image of a dog, such as one with one leg for code 206 or twin dogs for code 207.
This website was inspired by a similar site called HTTP Status Cats, which features cat images instead of dogs. While HTTP Status Dogs may not generate significant traffic or make money, it serves as a lighthearted and enjoyable platform for users to learn about HTTP status codes in a memorable way.
The humorous and relatable nature of using dog images to represent HTTP status codes adds a touch of creativity and fun to the website. It appeals to both dog lovers and web developers, offering a refreshing take on usually technical and sometimes complex concepts. HTTP Status Dogs may be a small niche site, but it serves as an example of how websites can bring joy and amusement to users while providing relevant information.
Cornify.com Unicorn Website
Cornify.com is a whimsical website dedicated to all things unicorn and rainbows. Users can explore various unicorn-themed activities, such as coloring unicorns, creating unicorn names, and discovering unicorn-themed products for sale. The website even features a blog section with content like a unicorn name generator.
While Cornify.com has a playful and captivating design, there are opportunities for improvement in terms of SEO traffic. The site’s link and site structure could be enhanced to optimize visibility and reach. However, despite its current SEO challenges, Cornify.com remains a delightful platform for unicorn enthusiasts and those seeking a touch of magic and wonder.
One noteworthy feature of Cornify.com is its unicorn fax page, which is unique and intriguing. This page can serve as a creative link-building strategy, attracting attention and generating interest from potential linking partners. By leveraging its unicorn-themed content and distinctive offerings, Cornify.com can strengthen its SEO and increase its visibility within its target audience.
The Website ‘Unicorn’
“The Website ‘Unicorn'” refers to a website that offers over 400 million unicorns and rainbows to its community. Created in 2009, the website initially had a poor design but has since undergone improvements. Notably, the creator specializes in UX design and has a company.
The website has made progress in terms of aesthetics, with a nicer overall appearance and available Amazon products. However, it is important to note that the website may not cater specifically to the speaker’s niche audience. While it may not be a perfect fit, the website’s virality in 2009 and its significant unicorn and rainbow offerings have contributed to its popularity and continued presence.
Survey Results and Podcast Sponsor
In an upcoming newsletter, the speaker plans to announce the results of a survey conducted. The survey aims to gather valuable insights from the community and provide valuable data for analysis and future decision-making.
Additionally, the podcast episode is sponsored by Search Intelligence, a company that assists with digital PR link-building campaigns. The agency has successfully secured links in reputable publications such as Huffington Post and Glamour Magazine. By utilizing expert commentary from their client, the agency was able to reach out to journalists effectively, resulting in a successful campaign with a high number of backlinks.
The speaker’s newsletter and the podcast sponsor exemplify the speaker’s dedication to providing valuable information and opportunities to their audience. By engaging in surveys and collaborating with reputable companies, they strive to offer meaningful insights and resources for their community.
Conclusion
The Google Core Update, YouTube’s A/B testing tool for thumbnails, side projects, unique websites like HTTP Status Dogs and Cornify.com, and the results of a community survey and podcast sponsor have all been discussed in this comprehensive article. These topics provide a glimpse into the ever-evolving digital landscape and the opportunities and challenges faced by website owners, content creators, and entrepreneurs.
As online platforms and algorithms continue to evolve, it is essential for individuals and businesses to stay informed and adapt their strategies accordingly. Whether it’s monitoring ad networks for site performance, experimenting with A/B testing tools, or exploring unconventional niche sites, there are endless possibilities for growth, creativity, and success in the digital realm. By sharing insights and experiences, the speaker aims to inspire and guide others on their own journeys in the online world.