S2 Ep 32 Dear Google: It's Not Just About You Anymore

AI isn’t just another marketing tool — it’s reshaping how people search, buy, and trust brands. In this kickoff to Season 2, John, Jim, and Kelly break down how AI is making businesses either more visible or dangerously invisible online. From Google's slipping dominance to the rise of AI-powered search, discover what’s changing, what’s working, and why "stay human" is the strategy that wins.

Show Notes

Episode Title: Dear Google: It's Not Just About You Anymore Podcast: Why Your Business Is Invisible Online Hosts: John Maniatis, Jim Falotico, Kelly Biggs

 

Key Themes & Insights

• AI's Impact on Search: Google’s share of search traffic has dropped significantly, with AI-driven search accounting for 30% of online queries in 2024.
• Changing Search Behavior: Customers now look to TikTok, Instagram, and AI platforms — not just Google — to find products and services.
• The Rise of AI Trust (and Risk): People are "dating" AI tools—building trust quickly but sometimes dangerously over-trusting AI-generated content without verifying accuracy.
• Business Adjustments Required: Companies must move beyond tactical AI usage and think strategically about how AI integrates into marketing, operations, and client experience.
• "Stay Human" Is a Competitive Advantage: WSI’s tagline, "Embrace Digital, Stay Human," resonates more strongly than ever as businesses balance efficiency with authenticity.
• Guardrails Are Essential: Few businesses have AI policies in place—leaving them exposed to hallucinations, misinformation, and legal risks.
• Workshops and Training: Building internal AI literacy, offering workshops, and guiding clients through AI adoption safely are emerging as major service offerings.

 

Memorable Quotes

“We all kind of dated AI for a while... and now everybody’s dating everybody.” — John Maniatis.

“It’s not just about installing a tool. It's about thinking bigger: how does AI move your business goals forward?” — Kelly Biggs

“We have to show clients what's shiny and what's sharp.” — Jim Falotico

“The fact that we stay human — that's what keeps businesses from getting lost in the AI noise.” — John Maniatis