Why The Google HCU Was The Best Things For My Travel Blog with Melissa Byron

When it comes to growing a travel blog, certain SEO best practices—like having a fast website and making your expertise clear—are important. That said, it is possible to grow and scale without obsessing over keywords or chasing trends.

Out guest, Melisssa Byron of A Solo Woman Traveling, is proof of this. After being impacted by the Helpful Content Update (HCU), she shifted from keyword-optimized content to reader-first storytelling and aligned offers—which helped her sustainably grow her blogging business, despite Google algorithm updates.

In this episode, she'll help you do the same by sharing:

-what authenticity actually means when it comes to content creation -tips for getting eyes on your content (Google and beyond) -how to properly align your content with your audience for increased profits -her strategy for creating a reader-first content plan—that also leads to profits -and more! 🎁 FREE OPEN HOUSE INSIDE TRAVEL BLOG PROSPERITY:

In April 2026, I'm hosting a free 5-day event for travel bloggers looking to grow their traffic, email list, and income. Each day, you'll get access to live workshop or coaching call—replays included—as well as our private Facebook group to ask questions in a safe and nurturing environment.

If you've been feeling a bit stuck lately, or if you're searching for some blogging clarity and community support, you won't want to miss it: ⬇️

http://jessieonajourney.com/open-house/

🎁 FREE BONUS:

Grab access to my free travel blogger resource library:

https://jessieonajourney.com/free-blogging-printables/

It includes 75+ blogging resources all meant to help you grow your traffic, community, and income faster and with less overwhelm. Snag workshops, tutorials, workbooks, cheat sheets, Trello boards, workflows, and more—including an Authentic Blogging Cheat Sheet!

🛠️ TOOLS MENTIONED:

Visit this link for a list of my favorite blogging tools, resources, and discounts - including tools mentioned in the episode: https://jessieonajourney.com/tools/

✨ CONNECT WITH MELISSA:

Website: https://asinglewomantraveling.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/asolowomantraveling/

🎉 CONNECT WITH JESSIE:

YouTube (blogging): https://www.youtube.com/@makemoneytravelblogging

Travel Creator Community Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/bloggrowthposse

Threads: https://www.threads.net/@jessieonajourney

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jessieonajourney/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jessieonajourney/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/JessonaJourney

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jessieonajourney

Flipboard: https://flipboard.com/@JessieFesta

YouTube (travel): https://www.youtube.com/@jessieonajourney/featured

🙏 CREDITS

🎶 Music by Bjorn Lynne via Depositphotos