In this episode of Chat With Sean, I’m joined by Martin Hayman - Co-Founder of RankCaddy and a well-known voice in technical and data-driven SEO.

We explore how search is evolving alongside AI and why, despite the industry noise, SEO fundamentals remain more important than ever. Martin shares practical insights on using Google Search Console data to uncover real opportunities, how AI should (and shouldn’t) be used in SEO workflows, and why brand, diversification, and “search everywhere” thinking are becoming essential moving into 2026.

We also discuss the reality behind AI traffic growth, how to respond to client questions around AI search, and why many SEOs still overlook the most valuable data sitting right in front of them.

Topics covered include:

- Why SEO isn’t being replaced by AI

- The real impact of LLM traffic vs Google search

- Advanced ways to use Google Search Console data

- Finding content opportunities through data analysis

- Using AI responsibly for content and insights

- The rise of search everywhere optimisation

- Brand, diversification, and future SEO strategy

- The evolving role of rank tracking tools

Connect With Martin Hayman:https://www.linkedin.com/in/martinhayman/

https://rankcaddy.io/

Cheat Sheet - https://bit.ly/martin-hayman-gsc

In this episode of Chat With Sean, I’m joined by Dawn Anderson, Managing Director at Bertey SEO Consultancy and one of the most respected voices in the SEO industry.

We look into the evolution of search, particularly with AI's growing role in shaping the future of SEO. From recursive language models to the changing landscape of search engines, we discuss how these new technologies impact organic search strategies, content creation, and SEO at scale.

Dawn explains why understanding search engines as “pattern recognition” systems is crucial, the role of schema in modern SEO, and why businesses must stay ahead of the technical curve when managing bots and crawling issues. We also explore how AI search is reshaping brand visibility, content effectiveness, and SEO practices moving into 2026.

Topics covered include:

- The rise of recursive language models and their implications for SEO

- How AI and context graphs will reshape search

- The future of structured data and schema in AI-powered search

- Managing content freshness in an AI-driven world

- Best practices for managing bots and AI crawlers

- Why SEO is evolving into a more awareness-driven channel

- Predictions for SEO in 2026 and beyond

Connect With Dawn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/msdawnanderson/

In this episode of Chat With Sean, I’m joined by Nick LeRoy, the mind behind SEOJobs.com, as we dive deep into the evolving SEO job market in 2026.

Nick shares valuable insights on how AI and LLMs (Large Language Models) are reshaping SEO roles, from the demand for technical SEO experts to the growing influence of content strategy and PR.

We discuss how companies are adjusting their hiring practices, focusing more on technical skills, content strategy, and AI optimisation. We also explore the challenges SEO professionals face as they balance traditional methods with AI-driven changes. Nick highlights key trends in SEO recruitment, from the rise of AI-related roles to the increasing importance of personal branding for career growth.

Key topics covered:

- The shift in SEO hiring practices and skills in demand for 2026

- The impact of AI and LLMs on the SEO job market

- Why technical SEO, content strategy, and PR roles are growing

- Personal branding as a career differentiator in SEO

- How SEO professionals can communicate value to leadership in a rapidly changing landscape

- Predictions for the future of SEO and its place in digital marketing

📍 Connect with Nick: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nickleroyseo/

https://www.seojobs.com/