How to Interview for your Podcast

Interviewing guests can add an exciting element to your podcast. It’s not as simple as ask a question and get an answer. There are a few things you should consider:

1. Prepare for the interview. Make sure to do background research on your subject. Background research includes the 5 W’s and H (Who, What, Where, When, Why, How), previous media coverage that your subject has received, and obtaining bio sheets if applicable.

2. Prepare your questions. Write down your questions in advanced and make sure to organize them in a way that flows.

3. Prepare to listen. When newbie interviewers have the questions written down they tend to not listen to the answer that the person gives. They just ask a question and move on to the next question. But when you truly listen to the answers, you’ll come up with more questions that will add depth and excitement to your interview.

4. Prepare your guest. You’ll get a much better interview if your guest is prepared as well. Before you start, be sure to inform your guest of the types of things that will be discussed. Don’t give them each question word-for-word because that will give your interview a “scripted tone”. However, given them a basic overview so that they can prepare.