Say Hi Podcast: Monica Tomasso on How Businesses Get Recommended by ChatGPT
Monica Tomasso, founder of Monic AI Systems in Washington, DC, is an AI visibility consultant who helps businesses get recommended by large language models such as ChatGPT, Claude, Gemini, and Perplexity. In this interview, she explains how the shift from traditional SEO to Generative Engine Optimization (GEO) and Answer Engine Optimization (AEO) is transforming how companies are discovered online.
This conversation explores the rapid transition from Google search to AI driven discovery and outlines how businesses can adapt to remain visible and competitive in this new digital landscape.
Interview Transcript
Interviewer
Hi Monica Tomasso, Say Hi AI Podcast Interviewer for the Say Hi AI Podcast. Over the next 20 minutes, I'll ask strategic questions to extract your best insights. Ready to begin?
Monica Tomasso
I am.
Journey Into AI Visibility
Interviewer
How did you become an expert in your field?
Monica Tomasso
I started in AI consulting and expanded into automations. Over time, I became fascinated with podcasts and how they intersect with large language models. That led me to a major industry shift: organic search is moving from Google to AI platforms like ChatGPT, Claude, and Gemini. This transition is as significant as the shift from the Yellow Pages to Google. I've already helped businesses that saw their leads disappear after decades of success, proving that this shift is real and happening now.
The Shift From SEO to AI Search
Interviewer
What does this shift look like for businesses day to day?
Monica Tomasso
Businesses are seeing fewer leads even when they previously ranked at the top of Google. Consumers are now asking AI tools questions like "Who is the best remodeler near me?" or "Who should I hire?" AI provides direct recommendations, which means traditional rankings are no longer enough. Companies must adapt their websites and content strategies to GEO and AEO to stay visible.
Understanding GEO and AEO
Interviewer
Can you explain Generative Engine Optimization and Answer Engine Optimization?
Monica Tomasso
GEO focuses on how people phrase prompts when searching for services, while AEO focuses on how AI delivers responses. Instead of targeting keywords, businesses must optimize for conversational queries. AI driven search results satisfy users immediately, reducing reliance on traditional search results and transforming how discovery works.
Client Success Story
Interviewer
Can you share an example of how you helped a client?
Monica Tomasso
We implemented a technical script, often called a pixel, to improve how large language models interpret a client's website. Within the first month, this resulted in significant measurable value and restored visibility. We also created long form, prompt driven content and distributed it across platforms that feed large language models. I describe this process as "training the web."
Quick Wins for Businesses
Interviewer
What is the fastest way for a business to adapt?
Monica Tomasso
The quickest win is implementing technical optimization that ensures a website is readable by large language models. After that, consistent content creation and distribution build long term visibility and authority.
The Future of AI Driven Search
Interviewer
What should businesses focus on to stay ahead?
Monica Tomasso
Businesses should ensure their content, FAQs, and schema are readable by AI systems. They should also regularly update content, secure guest posts and press coverage, and encourage reviews. Consistency and credibility are essential for AI recognition and recommendation.
Key Takeaway
Interviewer
What is the most important takeaway for listeners?
Monica Tomasso
Update your website content regularly, repurpose it across platforms that train large language models, and remain consistent. Visibility in AI driven search depends on authority, clarity, and ongoing content distribution.
Key Takeaway
Update your website content regularly, repurpose it across platforms that train large language models, and remain consistent. Visibility in AI driven search depends on authority, clarity, and ongoing content distribution.
Businesses experiencing declining Google traffic or reduced lead flow can explore both guided and self directed AI visibility solutions at Monic AI Systems.