Podcast Summary: Grumpy SEO Guy - "There Is No Such Thing As Cheap SEO" (Episode 78)

Introduction

In Episode 78 of the "Grumpy SEO Guy" podcast, released on October 16, 2024, Grumpy SEO Guy delves into the pervasive myth of "cheap SEO." With 14 years of experience running an SEO agency, he shares candid insights aimed at helping listeners navigate the often murky waters of search engine optimization. The episode sets the tone by emphasizing the importance of quality over cost in SEO practices.

The Myth of Cheap SEO

Grumpy SEO Guy begins by debunking the notion that effective SEO can be obtained inexpensively. He clarifies that when he asserts "there is no such thing as cheap SEO," he doesn't imply that SEO requires exorbitant budgets. Instead, he stresses that the components of genuine SEO cannot be obtained cheaply without compromising quality.

"There is no such thing as cheap SEO. Stop buying it," he asserts (00:04:30), reinforcing his central thesis that investing in quality is non-negotiable for successful SEO outcomes.

Free Audits and Free Consulting

A significant portion of the episode critiques the prevalence of free SEO audits and consulting services. Grumpy SEO Guy warns that offers for free audits often lead to low-quality, automated assessments that add little value. He elaborates that reputable SEO professionals rarely provide free, in-depth analyses because comprehensive audits require substantial time, expertise, and access to expensive tools.

"Usually, when somebody's offering a free audit, what they're doing is they're going online and getting some free audit tool...," he explains (00:06:15), highlighting that these free services are more about gaining trust to upsell services rather than providing genuine value.

The Importance of Quality Backlinks

Transitioning to the core of SEO, Grumpy SEO Guy emphasizes that backlinks are crucial, accounting for approximately 90-95% of SEO effectiveness. He underscores that building authority through high-quality backlinks is essential once a website is structurally sound and free from penalties.

"Link building and Authority is like 90 to 95% of SEO," he states (00:15:45), reinforcing the idea that effective SEO heavily relies on authoritative backlinks rather than superficial content strategies.

The Cost of Quality SEO

Addressing the financial aspect, Grumpy SEO Guy explains that quality backlinks require significant investment. He uses hypothetical examples to illustrate that while the upfront cost may seem high, the long-term benefits of high-quality backlinks far outweigh the fleeting gains from cheap alternatives.

"If you need a thousand backlinks, it's in your best interest not to go buy a thousand backlinks for $15...," he advises (00:19:20), emphasizing that affordable SEO packages typically deliver poor results, whereas investing in quality backlinks yields sustainable SEO improvements.

Recognizing and Avoiding Scams

The episode serves as a cautionary tale against the numerous scams plaguing the SEO industry. Grumpy SEO Guy shares anecdotes about fraudulent practices, such as selling low-quality backlinks at exorbitantly low prices or offering unrealistic promises like ranking without backlinks.

"Most SEO sellers are scammers. Most people that you meet on the Internet who are trying to share their SEO knowledge with you are scammers," he warns (00:21:10), urging listeners to be vigilant and informed to avoid falling victim to deceitful practices.

Understanding SEO Terminology

To equip listeners with the necessary knowledge, Grumpy SEO Guy distinguishes between various roles in the SEO ecosystem, clarifying misconceptions around terms like mentors, consultants, advisors, and coaches. He emphasizes the importance of understanding these distinctions to engage effectively with SEO professionals and avoid being misled.

"A consultant gets paid to do work. A coach gets paid not to tell you what to do, but to ask you questions..." he explains (00:23:00), providing clarity on how to identify legitimate services versus potential scams.

Conclusion

Grumpy SEO Guy concludes the episode by reiterating that "there is no such thing as cheap SEO." He encourages listeners to invest in quality SEO practices, educate themselves about the fundamentals of SEO, and be wary of offers that seem too good to be true. The episode serves as both a guide and a warning, emphasizing that successful SEO requires commitment, understanding, and appropriate investment.

"In conclusion, do not buy cheap SEO. There is no such thing as cheap SEO," he affirms (00:25:00), driving home the episode's key message.

Notable Quotes

• "There is no such thing as cheap SEO. Stop buying it." (04:30)

• "Link building and Authority is like 90 to 95% of SEO." (15:45)

• "Most SEO sellers are scammers. Most people that you meet on the Internet who are trying to share their SEO knowledge with you are scammers." (21:10)

• "In conclusion, do not buy cheap SEO. There is no such thing as cheap SEO." (25:00)

Final Thoughts

Episode 78 of "Grumpy SEO Guy" serves as a sobering reminder of the importance of quality in SEO practices. By dissecting the pitfalls of cheap SEO solutions and offering practical advice on recognizing and investing in legitimate SEO strategies, Grumpy SEO Guy provides invaluable guidance for both novices and seasoned professionals aiming to achieve and maintain top search engine rankings.