SEO myths in 2026 include the belief that keyword stuffing still works and that AI-generated content automatically ranks without quality or strategy. In reality, search engines prioritize helpful, user-focused content, strong experience signals, and credible authority over shortcuts and outdated tactics.

The latest Ahrefs Podcast episode is titled ‘Top SEO myths debunked with real data’ featuring Ethan Smith.

Here’s what you’ll learn in this episode:

  • Why AI isn’t actually killing the web
  • Measuring the real traffic drop
  • The winners and losers of the AI traffic shift
  • How AI behaviors are expanding the “Search Pie”
  • Cleaning up outdated and inaccurate citations
  • Why SEO and AEO are the same thing
  • Why your AI tracking is biased
  • Mining sales calls and Reddit for high-intent prompts.

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