In this episode, we dive into how AI decides which local businesses to recommend, with local marketing strategist Alison Evans of Pinpoint Local and SEO expert Jose Chavez of Ready to Rank. Together, they break down the critical signals and systems AI-driven platforms rely on to determine which businesses get visibility—and which get filtered out—as search, maps, and recommendations become increasingly automated.

Alison and Jose share real-world insights on how artificial intelligence evaluates trust, relevance, and authority at the local level. From Google Business Profile optimization and review signals to website clarity, entity consistency, and behavioral data, they explain what AI actually “looks for” when deciding who to show and who to skip.

You’ll learn how to identify the gaps that cause AI to overlook your business, where to focus your efforts as AI-powered search continues to evolve, and how small improvements in data accuracy, content structure, and customer experience can dramatically improve your chances of being recommended. Their approach is practical, data-driven, and focused on aligning your marketing with how machines—and customers—make decisions.

Whether you’re aiming to increase local visibility, earn AI-driven recommendations, or future-proof your marketing strategy, this episode will give you clear direction on how to position your business to be chosen in 2026 and beyond.

I hope you find it insightful, and I’m always interested in hearing your thoughts.