Ep. 219 Why SEO Still Matters in the Age of AI Search with Founder & CEO of Houndstooth Media Group

Show Notes: Search is changing faster than ever. Customers are no longer relying solely on Google. They're asking ChatGPT, Claude, and other AI platforms for recommendations, and businesses that fail to adapt risk becoming invisible. In this episode of Business Growth Spotlight, Heidi Schalk sits down with Vivienne Wagner, founder of Houndstooth Media Group, to explore the future of SEO, AI visibility, and why clarity has become one of the most valuable assets a business can have. Vivienne shares how she accidentally built a thriving digital marketing agency, why authentic storytelling still matters in an AI world, and what business owners need to do today to ensure they are found and recommended tomorrow. She also reveals the three questions every business must answer clearly if they want to stand out in both search engines and AI platforms. Bio: Vivienne Wagner is the founder and CEO of Houndstooth Media Group, a digital marketing agency based in Southern California. With a team of 16 specialists, she helps mid-sized businesses transform their websites into revenue-driving hubs by combining SEO expertise with the latest in AI-driven optimization. Known for her ability to make complex marketing concepts accessible, Vivienne speaks on how businesses can position themselves to be found by both human audiences and AI platforms like ChatGPT and Perplexity. Her agency’s approach not only boosts visibility and organic traffic but also reduces dependence on paid ads, giving business owners the freedom to scale more sustainably. Vivienne frequently works with decision-makers who need trusted marketing leadership—either because they don’t have in-house expertise or want a sharper second opinion on their current strategy. She offers a structured starting point through her SEO & AI Optimization Audit, which helps companies uncover hidden opportunities, identify weak points, and gain clarity on the steps needed to compete in today’s search-driven landscape. Outside of work, Vivienne enjoys life with her husband and extended family of four grown sons. Known for her mix of humor, candor, and genuine care for the people she works with, she brings the same energy into her professional world that she does into her personal one. As a guest, she is direct, insightful, and engaging—ready to share practical strategies for AI-optimized marketing, building strong website foundations, and scaling digital strategies for long-term success. Houndstooth Media Group Houndstooth Media Group is a boutique digital marketing agency based in Southern California. With a team of 16 specialists across the country, the agency helps mid-sized businesses turn their websites into revenue-driving hubs through SEO, AI-driven optimization, and strategic digital marketing. The majority of Houndstooth’s client base comes through referrals and word of mouth, with most partnerships lasting for years. That loyalty stems from the agency’s commitment to transparency and education—qualities that set it apart in an industry often clouded by jargon and “smoke and mirrors.” Houndstooth eliminates the “flying blind” feeling many business owners experience when working with marketing agencies, instead giving them clarity, confidence, and measurable results. From SEO strategy and AI-optimized content to social media, branding, and revenue development, Houndstooth delivers custom solutions without cookie-cutter tactics. Clients gain not only execution but also a trusted partner who explains the “why” behind the strategy, so leaders can make informed decisions and see the direct impact on their business growth. At its core, Houndstooth Media Group is built for long-term success: results-focused, strategy-driven, and deeply invested in helping businesses grow with confidence. To connect with our guest, click on the links below: LinkedIn:   / vivienne-wagner     / houndstooth-media-group   Instagram:   / houndstoothmediagroup   Website: https://houndstoothmediagroup.com/ 🎁Get your free webinar on AI Visibility https://houndstooth-media-group.webin... Connect with me: LinkedIn:   / heidischalkcoaching   🎁 Grab your Spotlight to Scale Blueprint: https://spotlighttoscale.com/blueprint