Google's recent search algorithm updates have significantly impacted smaller websites, leading to layoffs and drastic traffic declines. Site owners like Brandon Saltalamacchia and Nate Hake report up to 94% drops in traffic, struggling against AI-generated content and spam. Despite Google's claims of improving search quality, many feel their sites are being unfairly penalized. A recent meeting with Google offered little hope, as site owners expressed frustration over alleged shadowbanning and a lack of acknowledgment of the problem.