Is SEO Dead? How Publishers Can Survive the New Search Intelligence Era

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Is traditional SEO dying while search as a whole is evolving? In this special live episode of The Boost recorded at Affiliate Summit West, host Greg Rollett sits down with Melissa Harden, search intelligence expert from Digitas, to tackle the controversial question on everyone's mind: Is SEO really dead?

Melissa reveals that while SEO isn't dead, the hyper-focused approach to on-page optimization is dying as search becomes increasingly multi-channel and audience-driven. She introduces the concept of "search intelligence" as the evolution of traditional SEO strategies.

🧠 In This Episode You'll Discover: 

• Why traditional on-page SEO tactics are dying but search optimization is more important than ever 

• How audience perception is now a critical ranking factor (with real examples like AARP ranking for shapewear) 

• The 5 tactical strategies publishers need to implement in the new search era 

• Why search is becoming a "validation engine" rather than a discovery platform 

• How to create a cross-channel "drip strategy" that boosts visibility across platforms 

• Why real-time content and recency signals are crucial for search visibility

Whether you're a publisher, affiliate marketer, or brand looking to boost your content performance, this episode delivers a masterclass in adapting to the rapidly changing search landscape.

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✨ Explore what's trending → https://thegrommet.com. 

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→ Connect with Melissa Harden: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissaharden/

Instagram: @melissaharden 

Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@HardenSearchBar

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