How to Survive Google Updates (It's Not What You Think!) With Elena Davis

Megan chats to Elena Davis about how to weather algorithm storms, refresh content with intention, and lean into authentic connection to keep growth alive.

Cucina by Elena is a food blog for simple, high-quality, and flavorful Italian, American, Mexican-inspired, and Mediterranean recipes. Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight meal, a nostalgic family dish, or a stunning dessert, my recipes are made to be approachable, delicious, packed with real ingredients, and full of love. If you believe in the power of simple recipes that connect, comfort, and inspire, you’re in the right place! 

Elena shares her story of perseverance after multiple algorithm hits. She reveals the strategies that helped her revive traffic, from updating posts to leaning into community and experimenting with video and AI.

Key points discussed include:

- Community is the safety net: When algorithms shift and traffic tanks, it’s your readers who will carry you through.

- Update old content: Refreshing posts is often more powerful than creating new ones (and can bring key recipes back to life even after major drops).

- Lean into SEO structure: Interlinking, pruning outdated posts, and cleaning up technical clutter.

- Experiment with AI: Instead of fearing AI overviews, how can you use them to your advantage? Think writing simple summaries and recipe overviews that make your content AI-friendly, while still keeping it human.

- Video is non-negotiable: Reels, YouTube, and TikTok aren’t optional anymore.

- Be memorable: Intentional branding can make your site unforgettable in a sea of recipe blogs.

- Keep telling your story: Your background, culture, and experiences aren’t boring. Readers need to hear them again and again to deepen connection and build brand trust.

- Pinterest and email still work: Despite changing platforms, these steady drivers continue to bring results.

Connect with Elena Davis

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