Mastering Google Business & Apple Maps with Kevin Pimentel & Michelle Chia - #174

In this episode, host Alex Quin is joined by Kevin Pimentel and Michelle Chia, both experienced digital marketers, to break down the importance of local SEO and business listings. They discuss the differences between website SEO and local listing SEO, the key factors that influence Google Business and Apple Maps rankings, and how businesses can optimize their listings to attract more customers. The trio also covers strategies for getting more customer reviews, leveraging Google’s Q&A feature, and why Apple Maps is often overlooked but still crucial for visibility. Whether you're running a restaurant, gym, bar, club, or any local business, this episode provides practical insights to help you rank higher and drive more foot traffic.

Episode Outline

[00:00] Introduction: Understanding Local SEO vs. Website SEO

[03:45] The Role of Google Business & Apple Maps in Local Listings

[07:20] Key Factors That Affect Local SEO Rankings

[12:10] Treating Your Business Listings Like Social Media

[18:30] How Reviews Impact Rankings & Business Credibility

[23:15] Optimizing Listings: What Businesses Need to Know

[30:40] The Role of Domain Authority & Backlinks in SEO

[35:55] How Physical Location Impacts Rankings & Workarounds

[42:00] Google My Business Optimization Best Practices

[48:25] Apple Maps: Why It Matters & How to Optimize

[54:10] Automating Listings with Tools Like Yext

[58:30] Strategies for Getting More Positive Reviews

[01:05:20] The Impact of Website Speed & Structure on SEO

[01:12:40] The Importance of Answering Q&A on Google Business

[01:18:00] Final Thoughts & How to Connect with the Guests

Wisdom Nuggets

Local SEO vs. Website SEO: Traditional SEO helps websites rank, while local SEO focuses on getting businesses listed in map packs like Google & Apple Maps.

Consistency is Key: Keeping business information updated across multiple platforms like Google Business, Yelp, TripAdvisor, and OpenTable is crucial for rankings.

Treat Listings Like Social Media: Regular updates, posts, and interactions on business listings help improve visibility and credibility.

Customer Reviews Matter: A strong review strategy can influence rankings and boost trust—responding to both good and bad reviews is essential.

Apple Maps Shouldn’t Be Ignored: Many businesses fail to claim their Apple Maps listing, losing out on customers who rely on iPhones.

Your Website Impacts Local SEO: Website speed, mobile-friendliness, and SSL security all affect how high a business ranks in local searches.

Power Quotes:

"Treat your Google Business profile like your Instagram—keep it fresh, updated, and engaging." – Michelle Chia

"A single negative review can cost you business—how you handle it can turn it into an opportunity." – Alex Quin

"Apple Maps is often overlooked, but it’s a goldmine for local businesses." – Kevin Pimentel

Meet the Guests: Michelle Chia & Keven Pimentel

Instagram: [https://www.instagram.com/michellechia]

Instagram: [https://www.instagram.com/instakeven]

Connect With the Podcast Host Alex Quin:

Instagram: (https://www.instagram.com/alexquin)

Twitter: (https://twitter.com/mralexquin)

LinkedIn: (https://www.linkedin.com/in/mralexquin)

Website: (https://alexquin.com)

TikTok: (https://www.tiktok.com/@mralexquin)

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