Google updated its review policies in April 2026—and many of the strategies play café and indoor playground owners have relied on for years are now considered violations.BLOG for this episode: https://www.michelecaruana.com/blog/new-google-review-rulesIn this episode, I break down what actually changed, what’s now banned (including incentivized reviews, in-person asks, and review gating), and how Google’s AI is actively flagging suspicious behavior.More importantly, I walk you through exactly what to do instead—so you can continue generating consistent, high-quality reviews without putting your business at risk.If reviews drive your bookings (and they do), this is a shift you need to understand.In this episode, we discuss:The biggest Google review policy changes in 2026Common review tactics that are now violationsWhat “review gating” is and why it’s bannedWhether you can still share your Google review link (and how to do it correctly)The new role of AI in detecting review manipulationHow to build a compliant, system-driven review strategyPractical ways to still get consistent, high-quality reviewsGOOGLE'S POLICIES: https://support.google.com/business/answer/3038177?hl=enOTHER RESOURCES:Play Cafe Academy & Play Makers SocietyGetting Started With Your Play Cafe [YouTube Video Playlist]What's Working In The Indoor Play Industry 2025 GuideFund Your Indoor Play Business [Free Training]Indoor Play Courses & 1:1 Consulting WaitlistMichele’s InstagramMichele’s WebsitePlay Cafe Academy YouTube ChannelETSY Template ShopPrepare Your Indoor Playground For a RecessionPlay Cafe Academy & Play Makers SocietyQuestions and Support: [email protected] TOOLS & OTHER LINKS:Play Cafe Academy & Play Makers Society: http://bit.ly/3HES7fDQuestions and Support: [email protected] TOOLS:Play Space Brain (Mention This Podcast For Special Pricing!)Simplify and Scale with 50% OFF WellnessLivingActive Campaign Free TrialFree Demo of Aluvii All-In-One POS