The Ross Simmonds Show

Latest Episodes:

How Ahrefs Built A Content Moat On The Back Of SEO, YouTube & Tools Jan 25, 2024

Show notes

In this episode, Ross explores SEO in digital marketing, focusing on Ahrefs, a $100 million business that has transformed how marketers approach search.

Meet Dmytro Gerasymenko, the visionary behind Ahrefs, as he unveils the core elements that catapulted Ahrefs into a market leader. From brand essence to infrastructural brilliance, get ready for an exclusive peek behind the curtain.

Tim Soulo, the marketing lead at Ahrefs, joins the conversation, spotlighting the latest innovations Ahrefs has up its sleeve. It's not just about features but their relentless pursuit of consistency mingled with bold experimentation.

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Here's what we've packed into this must-listen episode:

Ahrefs Uncovered: From a powerful suite of SEO tools to generating a staggering $858,000 in monthly organic traffic with their free offerings, discover the strategy that put Ahrefs on the map.

Content & YouTube Mastery: With over 21 million YouTube views and content in multiple languages, Ahrefs sets the bar for content marketing. Unearth the secrets of their content strategy that speaks volumes across the globe.

Culture of Experimentation: Dive into Ahrefs' unique culture, where experimentation and bootstrapping are the norms. Hear straight from Tim Soulo about their innovative spirit that fuels growth and learning.

Strategic Market Moves: Witness how Ahrefs uses its products to tell compelling stories, and how strategic decisions like shutting down their 16,000-member Facebook group align with their scaling ambitions.

Key Insights:

Ahrefs is not just a tool, it's an empowerment engine for marketers and content creators.
Their free tools aren't just free; they're traffic magnets and insight goldmines.
Consistency and high-value assets are the pillars of Ahrefs' content success.
Embracing experimentation and a product-led mindset isn't a choice; it's a necessity for growth.
Their commitment to education is not just admirable; it's transformative.

Resources mentioned:

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Why Unscalable Content Is The Future Of SEO Today Jan 21, 2024

Show notes

In this episode, Ross discusses the importance of unscalable content for brands looking to stand out in search engine results. He explores how AI can be used to create a large quantity of mediocre content but emphasizes the need for marketers to prioritize quality and human creativity in their content strategies. Ross suggests that brands should invest in creating unique and labor-intensive content assets that cannot be easily replicated by AI-driven competitors.

Key Discussion Points:

- Unscalable content is crucial for brands that want to rise to the top of search engine results.

- The prevalence of mediocre content online

- The opportunity for marketers to differentiate themselves from AI-driven content engines

- Many brands are producing mediocre content due to a lack of knowledge on how to use AI effectively.

- AI can be used to create a large quantity of content, but it often lacks creativity and quality.

- The importance of unscalable and laborious content creation. Marketers should prioritize investing in content assets that are difficult for competitors to replicate overnight.

- Examples of unscalable content strategies

- Unscalable content strategies require more effort and resources, but they ultimately pay off in the long run.

Read Ross’ latest blog post “Why Creating Unscalable Content Amidst The Rise Of AI Is The Right Move” here

Resource Links:

AI Marketing Console

AI Marketing Results Blog Post

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30+ ChatGPT Prompts For Marketers To Steal Jan 13, 2024

Show notes

In this episode, Ross explores the power of ChatGPT to enhance your content creation process. He shares 30 prompts that can inspire engaging content and increase productivity.

Key Takeaways:

1. ChatGPT's ability to adopt the persona of any author can assist in writing content inspired by their unique style.

2. Utilize ChatGPT to generate a list of 20 titles, but be aware that creating all the accompanying content within seconds may be challenging.

3. Leverage ChatGPT to develop content that drives sales, such as creating posts answering frequently asked questions about your service.

4. Use ChatGPT to generate ideas that stimulate engagement, like sparking a debate on controversial topics such as pineapple on pizza.

5. Combine different topics with ChatGPT, allowing it to find parallels and create fresh content ideas.

6. Explore ChatGPT as a brainstorming technique for social media content creation.

7. Take advantage of ChatGPT's content analysis and trend prediction abilities to create proactive social media content.

8. Generate listicles effortlessly with ChatGPT, creating top 10 tips and tricks lists for your product or service.

9. Leverage seasonal content to inspire ChatGPT and generate relevant and timely content ideas.

Resources and Tools:

- AI Marketing Console

- ChatGPT

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Predictions For 2024: What We Can All Expect [AI, Will Smith, Super Bowl, Lay Offs & More] Jan 11, 2024

Show notes

In this episode, Ross, founder and CEO of Foundation, discusses various topics ranging from the inner workings of great creators to his thoughts on upcoming trends and predictions in the business and marketing world. He also provides insights into specific areas such as AI content creation, movie trailers, marketing conferences, and personal goals for the year.

Key Discussion Points:

1. Apple's Continuous Success:

- Apple is predicted to ride a wave of success without facing any major issues in the coming years.

- More acquisitions of B2B tools across different industries and organizations can be expected.

2. SaaS Stocks:

- SaaS (Software as a Service) stocks are anticipated to reach all-time highs.

3. AI Content Creation:

- AI-powered content generation will gain prominence in achieving content excellence.

4. Movie Trailers:

- Movie trailers will be launched on platforms like X and will have the potential to go viral on Reddit and Instagram.

5. Marketing Conferences:

- A marketing conference will pioneer a groundbreaking achievement that no other conference has done before.

- The first Super Bowl ad created using AI will be showcased.

6. Box Office Success:

- The movie "Bad Boys 4" is projected to earn over $600,000,000 at the box office.

- Mister Beach, a relevant figure, will unveil something new, potentially elevating his status to that of a billionaire.

7. Diversification and Personal Goals:

- Ross discusses plans to diversify by investing in new businesses and launching new ventures.

- However, his primary focus for the year will be on execution and delivering excellence.

Resource Links:

- Foundation - https://foundationinc.co/

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My Favorite New Years Habit: A Year Compass Jan 02, 2024

Show notes

In this episode, Ross discusses the importance of New Year's resolutions and introduces the YearCompass as a useful tool for designing an ideal life. He breaks down some of the questions from the Year Compass and encourages listeners to incorporate them into their own end-of-year reflection ritual.

As the new year approaches, take the time to reflect on the past year and set goals for the future using the YearCompass. By answering thought-provoking questions and embracing the reflective process, you can gain a clearer understanding of your accomplishments, challenges, and aspirations. Remember to dream big and create a personal wish that drives your actions in the year ahead. Let this be the year you design your ideal life through self-reflection and meaningful resolutions.

Discussion Breakdown:

1. Introduction

- Ross discusses the value of New Year's resolutions and the YearCompass tool.

2. Using the Year Compass

- Ross emphasizes the need for an open mind, pen/pencil, and honesty in using the YearCompass.

- Provides an overview of the questions and topics covered in the YearCompass.

3. Reflections on the past year

- Lists the three greatest accomplishments from the previous year.

- Discusses the actions taken and the individuals who helped achieve those accomplishments.

- Reflects on the three biggest challenges faced and what was learned through overcoming them.

4. Dreaming big for the year ahead

- The YearCompass encourages readers to dare to dream big for the upcoming year.

- Describes the concept of "magical triplets" and encourages listeners to describe things in sets of three.

- Explores more interesting reflections beyond traditional vision or wishes.

5. Secret wish for the next year

- Encourages listeners to create a secret wish for themselves for the next year.

- Emphasizes the importance of putting a date on the wish.

Key Takeaways:

- New Year's resolutions are a positive way to start the year.

- The YearCompass is a helpful tool for designing one's ideal life.

- Reflection on past accomplishments and challenges can provide valuable insights and personal growth.

- Dreaming big and setting goals in sets of three can be a powerful exercise.

- Creating a secret wish with a specific date can be a motivating and actionable goal-setting strategy.

Resources Mentioned:

- YearCompass

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The Strategy Bankrate Used to Build a $76.3M SEO Moat Dec 23, 2023

Show notes

In this episode, we explore how Bankrate, a leading finance website, has successfully generated millions of monthly organic visits. By investing in high-value content and emphasizing expertise, Bankrate has established itself as an authority in the financial industry. We delve into the history of Bankrate, its content strategy, and the impact it has had on their success.

Discussion Breakdown:

1. The Importance of Expertise in Content

- Bankrate's emphasis on demonstrating expertise, experience, authoritativeness, and trustworthiness in their published content.

- Trusting a brand that is written by actual experts.

2. History of Bankrate

- Bank Rate Monitor founded by Robert K. Heady in 1976.

- Transition towards the internet with the establishment of Bankrate.com in 1996.

- Bankrate's IPO in 2011 and subsequent acquisition by Red Ventures in 2017.

3. Content Strategy and Results

- Bankrate's focus on creating valuable content and becoming an authority in the finance industry.

- The mortgage rate piece that drives over 1.3 million monthly organic visits to their website.

- Satisfying search queries to capture a wide audience.

4. Investing in Content and SEO

- Strategically investing in content and SEO for business success.

- The importance of backlinks to boost website credibility and visibility.

Key Takeaways:

- Bankrate's success in driving massive organic traffic is attributed to its investment in high-value content and expertise.

- The company's long history and trusted reputation have contributed to its authority in the finance industry.

- Bankrate's focus on satisfying user search queries through valuable content has attracted millions of monthly website visitors.

- Strategic investment in content, SEO, and backlinks can significantly enhance a business's online presence and success.

Resources and Tools Mentioned:

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Marketing Trends That Most Brands Will Miss In 2024 Dec 15, 2023

Show notes

In this episode, Ross Simmonds discusses the major trends that will shape the future of content marketing and business strategies. He highlights the rise of AI, interactive and engaging content, the power of memes, and the importance of niche content assets.

Ross discusses the transformative changes that have occurred in recent years and predicts the future trends that will shape the way we do business. From the rise of AI to interactive content and the untapped potential of niche channels, Ross offers valuable insights into the evolving landscape of marketing and engagement. In this episode, we will explore these trends in detail, uncovering their impact on businesses and highlighting strategies for success.

Summary of Main Topics:

1. The impact of AI on business strategies

2. The rise of interactive and engaging content

3. Leveraging the power of memes in social media

4. The potential of niche content assets

Detailed Breakdown:

1. The Rise of AI in Business

- AI will revolutionize the way businesses operate

- AI enables personalization by allowing the swapping of names and brand names in communications

2. Interactive and Engaging Content

- Increased focus on interactive content for better engagement

- Examples: calculators, quizzes, polls, and immersive experiences

- The connection between interactive content and business roles and responsibilities

3. Harnessing the Power of Memes

- Memes have the potential to spread quickly and generate high returns

- Incorporating memes into social media strategies can unlock amazing results

4. Niche Content Assets as a Valuable Channel

- Underrated and under-invested channels: podcasts, newsletters, Facebook groups, slack communities

- Brands should recognize the potential of niche content assets to reach their target audience

Key Takeaways and Insights:

- AI will revolutionize business strategies by enabling personalized communications.

- Interactive and engaging content, such as quizzes and immersive experiences, will become more prevalent.

- Memes can be a powerful tool for social media marketing and should be incorporated into content strategies.

- Niche content assets like podcasts and newsletters are highly valuable channels that should not be overlooked.

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How Audio AI Is Absolutely Going To Change The World Dec 11, 2023

Show notes

In this episode of Create Like the Greats, Ross Simmonds explores the growing trend of audio AI and its potential impact on various industries. He discusses the benefits and risks associated with audio-driven AI, including the possibility of deep fake voices, the automation of tasks such as audiobook narration and podcast hosting, and the future of call centers powered by AI.

Audio AI is bound to reshape various industries and our daily lives, effectively challenging the status quo. While there are undeniable benefits to be gained, we must be cautious about the potential risks it poses. Balancing the advantages and disadvantages of audio AI is crucial, ensuring that we harness its power for good while minimizing the potential harm. The future of audio AI is promising, but it also demands careful ethical considerations and responsible implementation.

Detailed Breakdown:

1. Introduction to Audio AI

- Audio AI presents both benefits and risks.

- Hackers can exploit audio AI to replicate voices for malicious purposes.

- The future of voice technology and AI will have far-reaching implications.

2. Potential Impact on Creators

- Authors could bypass traditional publishing processes by using synthetic voices for audiobooks.

- Podcasts could be hosted by AI-driven synthetic voices, reducing human involvement.

3. Interview with PT: Audio AI in the Workplace

- PT discusses the potential of AI-powered voice interviews and call centers.

- Call centers could be fully automated, saving businesses time and money.

- AI can analyze tone and sentiment, enhancing the customer experience.

4. CNN's John Sutter on Audio AI

- John Sutter predicts that audio AI will replace call centers.

- AI-powered conversations have the potential to provide better service.

Key takeaways:

- Audio AI can be used for both positive and negative purposes.

- Authors and podcasters may no longer require human voices for their content.

- AI has the potential to revolutionize call centers and customer service.

Resources mentioned:

- ElevenLabs

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How I Prepare for a Keynote Presentation Dec 01, 2023

Show notes

In this episode, Ross shares his expertise on preparing and delivering impactful presentations. He emphasizes the importance of identifying a theme, incorporating applicable case studies, research, and data, and personal storytelling to engage the audience. Ross also discusses his approach to planning presentations and creating meaningful connections with the audience.

Ross is a master at content marketing presentations. With his emphasis on applicable case studies, research, and data, combined with personal anecdotes and a well-crafted theme, he captivates audiences ranging from small rooms to massive venues. Through transparency, relatability, and storytelling, Ross connects with audiences and imparts valuable knowledge that truly resonates. By following his tips and techniques, you too can elevate your presentations and leave a lasting impression on your audience.

Key Takeaways and Insights:

1. Importance of Theme in Presentations:

- Identifying a clear theme upfront sets the foundation for a successful presentation.

- Ross focuses on three key nuggets: applicable case studies, research, and data to support his theme.

2. Setting the Stage with the Audience:

- Establishing a connection with the audience is crucial to engage and build trust.

- Sharing personal struggles and failures helps break down barriers and foster a sense of relatability.

3. The Power of Personal Storytelling:

- Starting with a personal or unique story captivates the audience and establishes a human connection.

- Ross then links the story back to marketing and incorporates anecdotes from his own experiences and tactics.

4. Planning Presentations for the Future:

- Ross starts planning his presentations for the future by creating blank space in his calendar.

- He focuses on identifying stories and opportunities that are underinvested in among his audience.

- Developing an overarching story and theme helps shape the audience's perception and fosters engagement.

Resources mentioned:

- Foundation Marketing

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The Value Debate: Long Form Content vs Short Form Content Nov 19, 2023

Show notes

In this episode, Ross explores the ongoing debate between long form and short form content. He emphasizes that the length of the content doesn't determine its value, and instead, the focus should be on delivering quality information quickly. Ross acknowledges the benefits of long form content in generating backlinks, press, and traffic, but emphasizes that it must still provide value. He also highlights the value of short form content and how it can effectively engage users.