Podcast Summary: "Differentiating Enterprise SEO Content & Teams"
Podcast: Voices of Search — A Search Engine Optimization (SEO) & Content Marketing Podcast
Host: Tyson Stockton (I Hear Everything)
Guest: Patrick Stokes (ahrefs)
Date: February 21, 2026
Overview
This episode spotlights the changing landscape of enterprise SEO, with host Tyson Stockton welcoming Patrick Stokes from ahrefs. The conversation focuses on how newcomers—and established professionals—can navigate the evolving search marketing landscape, particularly in times marked by industry disruption and technological transformation. Listeners are offered career advice and practical guidance for mastering and adapting within the SEO and content marketing realm.
Key Discussion Points & Insights
1. Entering the Industry During Disruption
- Tyson (02:22): Opens the main discussion by asking Patrick for his top recommendations for individuals new to SEO, especially given the current waves of change and disruption in the field.
- Quote:
"What are your top recommendations for someone that's like new to the industry or starting to break into it? So it's like they're entering at a time of change and a lot of disruption going on. What career advice do you have for new SEOs?"
— Tyson Stockton [02:22]
- Quote:
2. Timeless SEO Career Advice
- Patrick Stokes (02:42): Delivers his core advice for those entering SEO:
- Be a Sponge:
- Emphasizes the importance of absorbing as much knowledge as possible, especially given how quickly things change in SEO.
- Adaptability:
- Cautions that not all current knowledge will be accurate or relevant in the future, so adaptability is essential.
- Community Support:
- Notes the industry's openness, with many professionals willing to share insights and support newcomers.
- Quote:
"And I think this hasn't changed in like 15, 20 years for me. Be a sponge. Yeah, things are changing. You have a lot to learn. You're probably going to learn some wrong things, so just be adaptable too. Like, things you learn now may not be correct or the way that they will be in five years. So just, just be open to that change and get all the knowledge you can. You have a lot of folks that are willing to share knowledge, help you, and to help move you along in your journey."
— Patrick Stokes [02:42]
- Be a Sponge:
3. Advice for Those Navigating Change
- Key takeaway: The core skills for success in SEO—curiosity, adaptability, and community engagement—remain unchanged even as the field shifts.
Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments
- Patrick Stokes (02:42):
"Be a sponge. Yeah, things are changing. You have a lot to learn. You're probably going to learn some wrong things, so just be adaptable too."
- Patrick Stokes (02:42):
"Things you learn now may not be correct or the way that they will be in five years."
- Patrick Stokes (02:42):
"...You have a lot of folks that are willing to share knowledge, help you, and to help move you along in your journey."
Important Timestamps
- 02:22 — Tyson asks Patrick for top recommendations and career advice for newcomers entering SEO during disruptive times.
- 02:42 — Patrick shares his timeless advice: be a sponge, stay adaptable, and leverage the supportive SEO community.
Tone & Language
The episode maintains an encouraging and pragmatic tone, emphasizing openness, continuous learning, and the enduring value of adaptability within the search industry. The speakers focus on support and personal development, making the episode both reassuring and actionable for its audience.
Conclusion
Though brief, the episode gives strategic, evergreen advice for anyone aiming to excel as an SEO professional, especially those entering a field in constant flux. Patrick’s message: soak up knowledge, embrace change, and lean on the generous SEO community to chart a successful path forward.