Welcome back to another episode of the Niche Pursuits Podcast, where your hosts Spencer Haws and Jared Bauman, from 201 Collective, bring you all the latest news and insight in SEO, digital marketing, website building, and entrepreneurship. This week the hosts focus entirely on one major event in the space: Google’s Helpful Content Update. As this major update has had wide-ranging effects on the niche site community, Spencer and Jared break it down for us and share some words of encouragement.
In this episode, Spencer and Jared discuss the impact of Google’s Recent Content Update and how it has affected their own websites. They delve into the changes in Google’s wording and the possibility of a rollback before the update is complete. Additionally, they cover the changes Amazon made in the way videos appear, affecting their earnings from their Amazon Influencer side hustles. The hosts also analyze the future of the Amazon Influencer program and whether it’s worth sticking it out. Stay tuned for more inspiration and insight into the world of SEO and digital marketing!
Overview of the Niche Pursuits Podcast episode
Introduction to the Niche Pursuits Podcast
In this episode of the Niche Pursuits Podcast, hosts Spencer Haws and Jared Bauman dive into the topic of Google’s Helpful Content Update. This update has had a significant impact on many websites, particularly niche sites. The hosts provide insight and analysis on the effects of this update, as well as discussing their own experiences with their websites.
Focus on Google’s Helpful Content Update
The Niche Pursuits Podcast episode focuses primarily on Google’s Helpful Content Update. This update marks a shift in Google’s wording from content “written by people” to content “written for people.” It also introduces the requirement for articles to be “written or reviewed by an expert.” The hosts discuss the implications of these changes and how it affects the SEO landscape.
Impact on niche sites
The hosts share the stats of their own websites, highlighting the gains and losses experienced after the Helpful Content Update. They discuss the challenges faced by niche sites and the adjustments that need to be made to meet Google’s new content requirements. The episode provides valuable insights into how the update impacted niche sites and what website owners can do to adapt.
Observations on SEO sensors and ranking tools
Although SEO sensors and ranking tools show low volatility, the hosts note that screenshots shared on Twitter demonstrate widespread negative impacts of the Helpful Content Update. They discuss the discrepancy between what the tools report and the real-world experiences of website owners. This highlights the importance of taking a holistic approach to analyzing the effects of algorithm updates.
Growth of Reddit and Quora
The hosts highlight the significant traffic growth that platforms like Reddit and Quora have experienced since the Helpful Content Update. These user-generated content (UGC) platforms are benefiting from Google’s focus on prioritizing UGC and recognizing expertise. The episode explores the implications of this growth and how website owners can leverage these platforms to their advantage.
Google’s prioritization of user-generated content
Google’s Helpful Content Update reflects its efforts to prioritize user-generated content and acknowledge expertise. The hosts discuss the impact of this shift in Google’s algorithm on various types of websites, such as forums. Some sites, like forums, benefit from the update, while others experience collateral damage. The episode explores the dynamics of this new landscape and offers insights into how website owners can navigate these changes.
Discussion on Spencer and Jared’s Websites
Stats of Spencer’s websites
Spencer shares the statistics of his websites after the Helpful Content Update. Some of his websites experienced gains, while others saw losses. Spencer provides an in-depth analysis of the implications of the update on his websites’ earnings and rankings. He also discusses the changes Amazon made in the way videos appear, which affected his earnings from his Amazon Influencer side hustle.
Stats of Jared’s websites
Jared discusses the impact of the Helpful Content Update on his websites. He shares how his earnings took a downturn due to the changes in how videos appear on Amazon. Jared provides insights into the Amazon Influencer program and discusses the future prospects of the program. The episode delves into the challenges faced by website owners in the Amazon Influencer program and the strategies they can employ to overcome them.
Impact of the update on earnings
Both Spencer and Jared talk about how the Helpful Content Update has affected their earnings. They provide honest and transparent accounts of the challenges they faced and the adjustments they made to mitigate the impact. The episode offers valuable insights into the financial implications of the update and how website owners can adapt their strategies accordingly.
Changes in Amazon Influencer program
Spencer and Jared discuss the changes in the Amazon Influencer program and how these changes affected their earnings. They delve into the details of these updates and analyze their impact on their respective websites. The hosts provide firsthand accounts of the challenges website owners face with the program and offer perspectives on its future viability.
Future implications for the program
The hosts explore the future implications of the Helpful Content Update for the Amazon Influencer program. They discuss the potential relationship between the update and the declining visibility index on Amazon.com. Despite the challenges, Spencer and Jared express their determination to continue creating new videos and staying strong through the fourth quarter. The episode provides valuable insights into the strategies website owners can adopt to thrive in this evolving landscape.
Insights into Google’s Helpful Content Update
Key aspects of the update
The hosts delve deeper into the key aspects of Google’s Helpful Content Update. They provide clarity on the changes in Google’s wording and the implications for website owners. The episode examines the rationale behind the update and sheds light on Google’s efforts to prioritize content that is helpful for users.
Benefitting sites like forums and UGC platforms
Spencer and Jared discuss how the Helpful Content Update benefits sites like forums and user-generated content (UGC) platforms. They explore the reasons behind this shift in Google’s algorithm and the opportunities it presents for website owners. The hosts analyze the impact of the update on different types of websites and the strategies website owners can employ to leverage the benefits.
Collateral damage to other sites
The hosts acknowledge that while some websites benefit from the Helpful Content Update, others experience collateral damage. They discuss the challenges faced by website owners whose sites have been negatively impacted. The episode provides insights into the factors that contribute to this collateral damage and explores potential strategies website owners can adopt to mitigate these effects.
Possible tweaks or reversals by Google
Spencer and Jared speculate on the possibility of Google making tweaks or reversals to the Helpful Content Update. They discuss the historical context of previous updates by Google and how the company has responded to feedback in the past. The hosts provide insights into the potential future developments and how website owners can adapt their strategies accordingly.
Wait and Observe Approach
Advice to wait and observe impact before making changes
The hosts advise website owners to adopt a wait and observe approach before making any drastic changes to their strategies or content. They emphasize the importance of studying the impact of the Helpful Content Update and understanding how it affects their specific niche. The episode provides practical tips on how to effectively monitor and measure the impact of algorithm updates.
Caution in making drastic strategy or content changes
Spencer and Jared caution against making drastic changes in response to the Helpful Content Update without fully understanding its implications. They stress the importance of maintaining a holistic approach to SEO and considering the long-term effects of any changes made. The episode offers practical advice on how to assess the effectiveness of specific strategies and make informed decisions based on data.
Significant Spike and Performance Analysis
Reference to a significant increase or ‘spike’
The hosts refer to a significant increase or “spike” in something, although it is not specified exactly what it is. They discuss the magnitude of this spike and its implications for their websites. The episode provides insights into the performance analysis of this spike and how it affects different aspects of website operations.
Discussion on the performance of videos
Spencer and Jared engage in a discussion on the performance of videos, highlighting the contributions made by different team members. They analyze the effectiveness of videos in driving traffic and conversions. The hosts also consider the future prospects of video content and potential strategies for optimizing their performance.
Comparison of contributions among team members
The hosts compare the contributions of team members in terms of the significant spike mentioned. They discuss the importance of teamwork and the role each person plays in achieving success. The episode explores strategies for optimizing team dynamics and maximizing individual contributions.
Challenges in Amazon Influencer Program
Decline in earnings and clicks
Spencer and Jared discuss the challenges they faced in the Amazon Influencer program due to the changes in the visibility of videos. They highlight the declines in earnings and clicks experienced as a result of these changes. The episode provides an honest account of the challenges website owners face in the program and offers insights into potential strategies for overcoming them.
Possible relationship to declining visibility on Amazon.com
The hosts speculate on the potential relationship between the decline in earnings and clicks in the Amazon Influencer program and the declining visibility index on Amazon.com. They explore the factors that contribute to this decline and discuss strategies for improving visibility and driving conversions. The episode sheds light on the dynamics of the program and provides valuable insights for website owners.
Plans to continue creating new videos
Despite the challenges faced in the Amazon Influencer program, Spencer and Jared express their determination to continue creating new videos. They discuss the strategies they plan to employ to overcome the challenges and enhance their earnings. The hosts provide practical tips for optimizing video content and maximizing its impact on conversions.
Dealing with Google’s Updates and Mental Health
Struggles faced in handling Google’s updates
The hosts acknowledge the struggles faced by website owners in handling Google’s updates. They discuss the challenges of adapting to algorithm changes and the stress it can cause. The episode provides insights into how website owners can navigate these challenges and maintain a positive mindset.
Potential impact on mental health
Spencer and Jared acknowledge the potential impact of Google’s updates on mental health. They discuss the importance of maintaining a healthy perspective and not letting algorithm changes define personal worth. The hosts offer advice on how to prioritize mental well-being while still striving for success in the online business world.
Introduction of Weird Niche Sites
AppleRankings.com – Rankings and descriptions of apples
The hosts introduce two weird niche sites, starting with AppleRankings.com. This site ranks different types of apples and provides humorous descriptions for each variety. They discuss the unique nature of this niche and its potential for attracting a specific audience. The hosts offer insights into the traffic and search rankings of such niche sites.
Gazoogle.net – Gangster translation of websites
The hosts introduce Gazoogle.net, a niche site that translates websites into gangster talk. They discuss the novelty and entertainment value of this niche, as well as its potential for attracting a niche audience. The episode provides an overview of the traffic and search rankings associated with niche sites.
Proposed Contest for Weirdest Niche Site
Idea of hosting a contest to find the weirdest niche site
The hosts propose the idea of hosting a contest to find the weirdest niche site. They discuss the potential benefits of this contest, both in terms of entertainment value and as a platform for promoting unique niche sites. The episode offers insights into how such a contest could be structured and the potential impact it could have on the niche site community.
Conclusion
Summary of podcast episode
The Niche Pursuits Podcast episode focuses on Google’s Helpful Content Update and its impact on niche sites and website owners. The hosts analyze the key aspects of the update and its implications for various types of websites. They provide insights into the challenges faced by website owners in the Amazon Influencer program and offer strategies for adapting to algorithm changes. The episode also explores the potential mental health impact of Google’s updates and proposes a contest for finding the weirdest niche site.
Final thoughts on Google’s Helpful Content Update
In conclusion, the hosts highlight the importance of staying informed and proactive in response to Google’s updates. They encourage website owners to embrace a wait-and-observe approach and to avoid making drastic changes without fully understanding the implications. The Niche Pursuits Podcast episode provides valuable insights and guidance for navigating the ever-evolving world of SEO, content creation, and website building in the wake of Google’s Helpful Content Update.