What Food Bloggers Need to Know About AI Search and the Fight for Fair Traffic with Adam Gallagher from Inspired Taste

In this episode of The Food Blogger Pro Podcast, host Bjork interviews Adam Gallagher from Inspired Taste, a long-standing food content creator who has witnessed every major shift in Google's search algorithms since 2009. Adam shares his deep concerns about the current state of AI-powered search, particularly Google's AI overviews and AI mode, which he argues are fundamentally unfair to content creators. He explains how Google's own content guidelines prohibit the creation of 'Frankenstein' recipes—synthetic, low-value content stitched together from multiple sources—but the company is now producing exactly that in its AI overviews and AI mode, often using creators' brand names and content without permission. This creates anti-competitive behavior, copyright issues, and a loss of traffic, despite creators following Google's best practices for years. Adam emphasizes that while the damage is already being done, creators can still push back through public advocacy, especially by tagging key Google decision-makers like Robbie Stein and Verjan Patel on platforms like X and LinkedIn. He highlights that even small, consistent feedback can lead to tangible changes, as seen in recent UX improvements announced by Google. Despite the fear and uncertainty, Adam remains optimistic that creator advocacy is working and that a fairer future for AI-powered search is possible. The episode offers actionable takeaways for food bloggers: first, document and share examples of harmful AI overviews and AI mode results using screenshots and videos; second, engage with Google decision-makers directly on professional platforms like X and LinkedIn; third, consider blocking non-traffic-driving AI bots like ChatGPT and Perplexity using enterprise tools like Cloudflare; fourth, continue to produce high-quality, original content while advocating for fair use; and fifth, stay informed and involved in the broader conversation around AI and content ownership. Adam stresses that creators are not powerless—by speaking up collectively and strategically, they can influence Google’s direction and protect their livelihoods. The overall tone is one of cautious hope, acknowledging the severity of the crisis while affirming the power of persistent, respectful advocacy.