EP.09 - From Intern to Industry Leader: George Zlatin’s SEO Story

Retained Trust

In this episode of Retained Trust, host Karl Hughes sits down with George Zlatin, co-founder of Digital Third Coast, a Chicago-based SEO and digital marketing agency. George shares his unconventional entry into the digital marketing world, starting from launching an online dog boutique to becoming a respected SEO expert and business leader. They explore the evolution of SEO, including how Digital Third Coast has adapted to changing algorithms and AI-driven content strategies. George also reflects on building a business, hiring the right people, and stepping back from leadership roles to pursue what he loves most — marketing and product development.

Key Points From This Episode:

[00:00:00] George’s career beginnings: from online dog boutique to SEO agency founder.

[00:02:02] The founding story of Digital Third Coast in Chicago.

[00:05:03] Early SEO tactics and how the industry has evolved.

[00:08:10] Hiring challenges and the impact of a great sales hire.

[00:13:25] Adapting to remote work and expanding client reach beyond Chicago.

[00:17:08] Delegating work and trusting team members for business growth.

[00:23:10] SEO’s future: The rise of AI and shifts in Google search results.

[00:29:17] Effective content marketing strategies in a changing SEO landscape.

[00:34:12] Using AI as a productivity tool in marketing and content creation.

[00:40:05] Educating the next generation about AI and technology.

[00:42:15] Recommended reads: Who Not How and Top Five Regrets of the Dying.

[00:46:20] George’s personal passion: rediscovering music through guitar lessons.

Links:

• George Zlatin on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/georgezlatin/
• Digital Third Coast: https://www.digitalthirdcoast.com/
• Karl Hughes on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karllhughes
• Production and editing by The Podcast Consultant: https://thepodcastconsultant.com