Unlocking SEO for Journalists: How YESEO Simplifies Search Optimization with Ryan Restivo

In today’s fast-moving journalism landscape, staying relevant isn’t just about telling compelling stories—it’s about making sure those stories are discoverable. That’s where SEO, or Search Engine Optimization, becomes crucial.

Ryan Restivo is the driving force behind YESEO, a tool changing the game for journalists. YESEO leverages generative AI to improve headlines and can process stories in over a dozen languages. Since its launch, YESEO has been installed in 400 workspaces and has already optimized more than 8,800 stories.

Ryan was recently named one of three finalists by The Online News Association (ONA) for the 2024 Online Journalism Awards in the newest category: Excellence in AI Innovation. This award celebrates those who use AI to enhance newsroom processes and boost audience engagement. Submissions were judged on their effectiveness, quality of implementation, and respect for human agency.

Ryan, who will be a guest on AI in Journalism soon, shared his excitement about the nomination and looks forward to attending the ONA conference in Atlanta. The winner in his category will be announced during the ONA luncheon and ceremony on Friday, Sept. 20.

Who is Ryan Restivo?

Ryan’s journey in the media industry reflects his deep passion for innovation and technology. With over a decade of experience, Ryan has consistently been at the forefront of integrating cutting-edge solutions into journalism. His career includes significant roles at Newsday and six years at MLB Advanced Media, where he honed his expertise in digital strategies and emerging technologies.

But Ryan’s impact isn’t just in adopting technology—he’s also about creating it. This mission led him to develop YESEO, a tool specifically designed to simplify SEO for journalists, which earned him a prestigious 2022 RJI (Reynolds Journalism Institute) Fellowship.

The Birth of YESEO: A Tool Tailored for Journalists

Ryan created YESEO to help newsrooms optimize content for search engines without sacrificing the quality of journalism. It seamlessly integrates into journalists’ workflows, offering real-time SEO recommendations as they write and edit stories. The goal is to make SEO accessible for everyday use, especially in newsrooms lacking time or technical expertise.

Why YESEO Matters in Today’s Media Landscape

SEO is no longer optional in the digital world—it’s essential. Search engines like Google are crucial for driving organic traffic to news stories. This is especially important for independent journalists and smaller newsrooms that rely on organic reach.

Tools like YESEO help journalists optimize their content, ensuring their stories reach the right audience and rank higher in search results. This allows journalists to focus on what they do best: reporting and storytelling.

Don’t miss the Podcast Episode with Ryan Restivo!