How AI Is Transforming Local SEO in 2026

About This Episode

Can Local SEO still deliver results as AI transforms the way people search?

As ChatGPT, Google AI Overviews, and AI-powered search continue to evolve, many local businesses are wondering if the old rules of Local SEO still apply. While AI is changing how search results are displayed, the businesses earning the most visibility are still the ones investing in consistent optimization, quality content, and strong local authority.

In this episode of SEO On-Air, host Koa Kauwe sits down with Jim Liberi (AdLeverage), Dominick Trippie (B2 Ads), and Gage Mooney (Non-Stuffy Attorneys) to discuss how AI is changing Local SEO, what businesses should prioritize in 2026, and why consistency continues to outperform shortcuts.

The conversation explores how AI is influencing Google Business Profiles, localized content, online reviews, topical authority, and service-area strategies. The panel also explains why AI should enhance, not replace, authentic content, how businesses can avoid common SEO mistakes, and why long-term success still comes from building trust with both customers and search engines.

🎯 What You’ll Learn

• How AI is changing Local SEO in 2026
• Why consistency remains the biggest Local SEO advantage
• How Google Business Profile supports AI search visibility
• Why reviews and customer engagement influence rankings
• How localized service pages improve topical authority
• Why AI-generated content still needs a human touch
• How to avoid common Local SEO mistakes
• What to look for when hiring an SEO agency
• Why black-hat SEO tactics fail over time
• The future of Local SEO in an AI-powered search landscape

Whether you’re a local business owner, SEO professional, marketer, or agency leader, this episode provides practical insights into building stronger local authority, improving search visibility, and preparing for the future of AI-powered search.

Because AI is changing how people search.

But consistency is still what helps local businesses win.

⏱️ Key Timestamps

00:01:07 – Meet Jim Liberi, Dominick Trippie & Gage Mooney

00:04:13 – The Biggest Local SEO Myth: There Is No Secret Hack

00:05:48 – Why Consistency Is the #1 Local SEO Strategy

00:07:30 – Building Topical Authority with Local Service Pages

00:11:50 – How to Onboard Local SEO Clients Effectively

00:15:26 – How AI Is Impacting Local SEO and Google Business Profiles

00:17:01 – The Future of AI in Local Search

00:18:47 – Do Google Business Profile Posts Still Matter?

00:20:35 – Red Flags to Watch for When Hiring an SEO Agency

00:24:00 – Why Consistent Local Businesses Continue to Win