Episode 132-How to Speed Write SEO Articles with Ryo Chiba

In this episode of The Prospecting Show, Dr Connor Robertson sits down with Ryo Chiba, the co-founder of MarketMuse, to explore how artificial intelligence is transforming content strategy. They unpack the process behind producing SEO-optimized, data-driven articles quickly—without sacrificing quality or authenticity.
The Intersection of AI and Content Creation
Dr Robertson begins by addressing the tension between automation and creativity. “Writers fear that AI will replace them, but really it’s a multiplier—it makes good writers faster, not irrelevant.”
Ryo agrees. “Exactly. MarketMuse isn’t designed to replace human thinking—it enhances it. Our software identifies the topics, subtopics, and keyword relationships that drive search visibility, and then the writer brings it to life.”
He continues, “The best SEO writing is still storytelling, but it’s guided by data instead of guesswork.”
Building the MarketMuse Framework
Ryo explains that MarketMuse was created after years of frustration with traditional keyword tools. “Writers used to pick keywords manually, which often led to shallow content. We wanted to create a tool that understood topics, not just words.”
He breaks down how the system works:
- Content Audit: The software evaluates a website’s content and identifies gaps.
- Topic Modeling: It uses AI to understand semantic relationships between search terms.
- Optimization: It recommends structure, word count, and key terms to improve relevance.
Dr Robertson notes, “That’s like using analytics for language—you’re creating predictability in creativity.”
Writing Fast Without Cutting Corners
Ryo emphasizes that speed writing isn’t about shortcuts. “The trick is to prepare intelligently. If your outline is built on solid topic research, the writing process becomes ten times faster.”
He explains how professional teams use a three-step model:
- Research with AI to find the best topics and structure.
- Write with flow—no overthinking in the first draft.
- Refine with feedback—using MarketMuse’s scoring system to identify missing depth.
Dr Robertson responds, “That’s what separates efficiency from laziness—systems that enhance output while maintaining integrity.”
The Role of Content Quality in SEO
Ryo points out that Google’s algorithms now reward quality over volume. “Gone are the days of keyword stuffing. Search engines understand context and user intent now. The content has to serve the reader.”
He adds, “AI helps ensure every paragraph has purpose. It tells you what you’re missing—not what to fake.”
Dr Robertson agrees, “That’s the future of SEO—it’s not about gaming the algorithm; it’s about aligning with it.”
Data as a Creative Partner
MarketMuse uses natural language processing to map what topics should appear in a well-rounded article. “If you’re writing about real estate investing, for example, it might suggest terms like ‘cash-on-cash return,’ ‘appreciation,’ or ‘cap rate’—concepts Google associates with expertise.”
Dr Robertson laughs, “That’s what I use across my blogs. It’s like having a digital editor who knows how to think like a search engine.”
Ryo adds, “Exactly. The more informed your structure, the more freedom you have to write confidently.”
Avoiding AI-Sounding Content
Ryo warns that AI tools alone can create robotic content if used poorly. “The biggest mistake is letting the machine do all the talking. Readers can spot soulless writing immediately.”
He suggests always adding a human layer: “Inject anecdotes, tone, and opinion. The data gives you direction, but your voice gives it life.”
Dr Robertson agrees. “That’s why every article we produce sounds like a conversation, not a formula.”
How Teams Scale Content Operations
Ryo explains how enterprises and agencies scale content production without losing cohesion. “Teams use MarketMuse to assign topics based on data priority—then writers collaborate through shared briefs.”
He continues, “This means every article connects to the brand’s broader strategy. Nothing gets published in isolation.”
Dr Robertson relates this to business systems. “That’s what I tell my teams—scaling isn’t about doing more; it’s about doing what matters most.”
Why Topic Authority Matters
Ryo highlights that topic authority is the new currency of SEO. “When you consistently publish around a focused set of topics, Google begins to trust your domain. That’s how you rank for competitive keywords.”
He advises creating clusters of related content: “For example, if you’re building authority in real estate, write about financing, property management, and market trends. Interlink them. That internal structure signals expertise.”
Dr Robertson adds, “That’s exactly how I structure drconnorrobertson.com—each topic supports the next.”
The Future of SEO and Content Creation
Ryo predicts that the future of SEO lies in predictive optimization. “AI will forecast performance before publication. You’ll know which article is most likely to rank before you even hit publish.”
He also believes voice search and AI-generated summaries will reshape how people consume content. “Writers will need to adapt to micro-moments—serving information instantly while maintaining depth.”
Dr Robertson concludes, “The goal isn’t to outwrite the algorithm—it’s to outserve the audience. Tools like MarketMuse make that sustainable.”
Key Takeaways
- AI should assist creativity, not replace it.
- Speed writing requires strong research and structure.
- Quality and user intent now outweigh keyword volume.
- Topic clusters build long-term SEO authority.
- The future of content is predictive, data-driven, and human-centered.
Dr Robertson closes the episode with a reflection: “Ryo Chiba proves that great content isn’t about typing faster—it’s about thinking smarter. When you pair data with discipline, you don’t just write—you lead.”
Listen to the Full Episode:
How to Speed Write SEO Articles with Ryo Chiba