Google, Growth, and Getting Seen — The SEO Playbook with Joy Hawkins
Mon Oct 13 2025
In the final installment of the Google and Growth series, host Maury Blackman sits down with Joy Hawkins, one of the most recognized experts in local search and the founder of Sterling Sky, LocalU, and the Local Search Forum.
Joy breaks down what small businesses really need to know about SEO in 2025 — from how Google’s local algorithm works to what actually moves the needle in local rankings. She shares insider insights on reviews, proximity, on-page optimization, and the biggest myths holding businesses back from being seen online.
Whether you’re a local business owner trying to stand out on Google Maps or a marketer looking to sharpen your SEO playbook, this conversation delivers practical, no-nonsense advice straight from one of the most trusted voices in the industry.
You’ll learn:
What really drives local SEO rankings todayHow to avoid the biggest SEO mistakes small businesses makeThe impact of reviews and proximity on visibilityWhere SEO is headed with AI and the future of Google Search
Guest: Joy Hawkins – Founder of Sterling Sky, LocalU, and the Local Search Forum. Columnist at Search Engine Land and Google Business Profile Product Expert.
Host: Maury Blackman, CEO and technologist exploring the intersection of data, growth, and small business innovation.
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
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In the final installment of the Google and Growth series, host Maury Blackman sits down with Joy Hawkins, one of the most recognized experts in local search and the founder of Sterling Sky, LocalU, and the Local Search Forum. Joy breaks down what small businesses really need to know about SEO in 2025 — from how Google’s local algorithm works to what actually moves the needle in local rankings. She shares insider insights on reviews, proximity, on-page optimization, and the biggest myths holding businesses back from being seen online. Whether you’re a local business owner trying to stand out on Google Maps or a marketer looking to sharpen your SEO playbook, this conversation delivers practical, no-nonsense advice straight from one of the most trusted voices in the industry. You’ll learn: What really drives local SEO rankings todayHow to avoid the biggest SEO mistakes small businesses makeThe impact of reviews and proximity on visibilityWhere SEO is headed with AI and the future of Google Search Guest: Joy Hawkins – Founder of Sterling Sky, LocalU, and the Local Search Forum. Columnist at Search Engine Land and Google Business Profile Product Expert. Host: Maury Blackman, CEO and technologist exploring the intersection of data, growth, and small business innovation. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.