Episode Overview:

Title: Protecting SEO Budgets in a GEO Era
Date: February 19, 2026
Podcast: Voices of Search // I Hear Everything
Host: Tyson Stockton
Guest: Patrick Stokes (Ahrefs)

In this concise episode, host Tyson Stockton engages Patrick Stokes of Ahrefs in a targeted discussion about the increasing pressures faced by SEO professionals, especially in retaining budgets amidst the rising focus on Generative Engine Optimization (GEO) and shifting digital marketing investment priorities.

Key Discussion Points & Insights

1. The Emerging Threat to SEO Budgets

Timestamp: 02:22

• Tyson asks a pointed question about the largest challenge SEOs will face over the coming year.
• Patrick Stokes identifies the top challenge:
  • “Proving their value, I think, and keeping budget because everyone seems to want to go to Geo or whatever and there's money there. But then where the businesses are still making money is SEO. So trying to find the balance there.”
    — Patrick Stokes [02:30]
  • He highlights a critical issue: businesses are increasingly drawn toward GEO (Generative Engine Optimization) due to its buzz and perceived opportunities, potentially at the expense of existing SEO initiatives.

2. The Value of SEO Remains Strong

• Despite an increased allocation towards GEO, Patrick asserts that SEO continues to be a core generator of business revenue.
• The episode underscores the balancing act SEOs must perform:
  • Demonstrating ROI and defending their budget=
  • Adapting to the evolving priorities of digital marketing teams.

Notable Quotes

• “Proving their value, I think, and keeping budget because everyone seems to want to go to Geo or whatever and there's money there. But then where the businesses are still making money is SEO. So trying to find the balance there.”
  — Patrick Stokes [02:30]

Memorable Moments & Takeaways

• Direct and Practical: The episode is notably brief but gets straight to the point, emphasizing the urgent, real-world challenge for SEOs:
  • Justification of budget and proving ongoing value as new digital paradigms like GEO compete for attention and resources.
• Insight for Practitioners: SEOs are reminded to focus on metrics, ROI, and clear communication about the impact SEO has—especially as senior stakeholders get distracted by newer trends.

Timestamps for Important Segments

• [00:46] - Tyson introduces Patrick Stokes from Ahrefs
• [02:22] - Tyson poses the question about upcoming SEO challenges
• [02:30] - Patrick provides his key insight about proving SEO’s value and defending budgets
• [02:50] - Episode closes

Overall Tone & Language

The exchange is matter-of-fact, practical, and slightly cautionary, reflecting the anxiety and competitive pressure within digital marketing teams as new technologies and approaches (like GEO) emerge.

Summary

This episode delivers a focused message: in the coming year, SEOs must prioritize proving their value and justifying their budgets as GEO and similar trends attract attention and financial resources. The conversation, though brief, offers a critical reminder that while marketing strategies evolve, the proven revenue power of SEO should not be underestimated, and diligent advocacy remains essential for SEO professionals.