In this episode of the Human-First AI Marketing® podcast, we’re joined by Chris Panteli and Nick Biggs, founders of Linkifi, to talk about how digital PR is evolving in a world dominated by AI, LLMs, and search engines that think like humans. We unpack what white hat link building actually looks like in 2025, why traditional press releases are outdated, and how AI is rewarding brands that build credibility, not just content.
You’ll learn why getting quoted in tier-one media matters more than ever, how digital PR helps you show up in AI-generated answers (not just Google rankings), and how small businesses can compete with bigger brands by earning trust at scale. Whether you're doing your own outreach or hiring help, this conversation delivers actionable ideas to help your business stay visible, human, and relevant in the age of automation.
Key Takeaways
1. Digital PR is the safest, most effective way to earn backlinks in 2025.
Unlike outdated SEO tactics, earned media links from credible publications are algorithm-proof and favored by both Google and LLMs.
2. AI-driven search (AEO) rewards mentions, not just backlinks.
Large language models prioritize authoritative brand citations even without links when generating conversational answers.
3. Credibility across multiple sources boosts AI visibility.
Getting quoted consistently across tier-one media builds trust signals that LLMs and users both recognize.
4. Traditional PR tactics (like press releases) are mostly obsolete.
Sending a press release about your latest product update won’t move the needle unless it’s genuinely newsworthy.
5. Small businesses can earn tier-one coverage.
You don’t need a massive budget, just a valuable perspective, a timely hook, and smart outreach.
6. The news cycle is your opportunity to build authority.
Newsjacking (when done ethically) allows you to insert your brand into relevant conversations journalists are already covering.
7. Podcast guesting is a powerful form of digital PR.
Appearing on trusted shows creates high-quality backlinks, content, and distribution across multiple platforms.
8. LLMs will evolve to favor trusted, verifiable sources.
Just like Google cracked down on low-quality SEO, AI search is moving toward rewarding brands that show up in credible places.
9. You can’t control the narrative, but you can influence it.
PR starts by aligning your voice with journalists’ needs; over time, this builds a consistent brand story across the web.
The Human-First AI Marketing Podcast is brought to you by Avenue9. We use artificial intelligence to amplify your unique voice, empower your marketing team, and enable your scaling business to achieve big-brand success.
Explore new avenues available with AI marketing at Avenue9.com.
No matter where you’re starting from or how big your goals are, we turn modern marketing challenges into exciting opportunities. Let's get started with a discovery consultation!
Want to be a guest? Send Mike Montague a message on PodMatch here.
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