How Speakers Can Prepare for a Successful Podcast Interview

As a public speaker, you’re likely comfortable presenting in front of live audiences or at conferences, but podcasting is a different game. Being a podcast guest offers a unique opportunity to reach new audiences, share your expertise, and promote your speaking career. However, to make the most of podcast guesting, preparation is key. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how public speakers can prepare for a podcast interview.

1. Research the Podcast, Host, and Audience

Before stepping into a podcast interview, it’s essential to thoroughly research both the podcast and its host. Familiarizing yourself with the show, its audience, and the person behind the microphone will help you tailor your responses and align with the overall tone and structure of the podcast.

• Listen to previous episodes: Tuning into past episodes allows you to understand the format, tone, and types of guests the host typically brings on. This insight will help you tailor your approach to match the vibe of the show.
• Study the host’s interviewing style: Each podcast host has a unique style. Some may prefer to focus on storytelling, while others dive into technical discussions or industry trends. Knowing the host’s approach can help you adapt and be more in sync during the conversation.
• Identify recurring themes: Look for patterns in the content the host covers. Are there specific topics or themes they explore frequently? As a speaker, you can use this information to prepare talking points that align with those themes.
• Know the audience: Just like when you prepare for a speaking event, understanding the podcast’s audience is crucial. Are they professionals, entrepreneurs, or casual listeners? Adjust your tone, examples, and language to ensure your message resonates with them.
• Understand the format: Some podcasts are structured with a formal Q&A, while others are more conversational. Familiarizing yourself with the format helps you prepare responses that fit the flow of the interview.

2. Clarify the Focus of the Interview

As a podcast guest, you’ll want to ensure that you’re aligned with the host regarding the topics of the interview. This step is crucial in maintaining a clear and focused message, especially when you want to highlight your experience as a speaker.

• Request key topics or questions in advance: While not all hosts provide questions beforehand, many will give you an overview of the themes they’ll cover. This helps you prepare specific anecdotes and insights.
• Outline talking points: Use your speaker skills to craft talking points that align with the interview focus. Structure your responses similarly to how you would for a presentation — concise, clear, and full of value.

3. Showcase Your Story and Message

As a public speaker, storytelling is your superpower. Podcasting is an excellent platform to showcase this ability, so ensure you bring engaging stories and key messages to your podcast guesting experience.

• Know your core message: Think about what you want the audience to take away from your podcast interview. Whether you’re promoting a speaking tour, a book, or a new business venture, having a central message is crucial.
• Use personal anecdotes: Incorporating relevant personal stories into your answers will keep listeners engaged. This is especially effective in podcasting, where audiences crave authenticity and real-life experiences.
• Stay consistent with your speaking brand: Be mindful that every podcast interview reflects on your personal brand as a speaker. Ensure your answers align with your values and messaging.

4. Prepare for Common and Unexpected Questions

Even though you might have key topics from the host, podcast interviews often involve impromptu questions. Being prepared for unexpected twists is a skill all good speakers should master.

• Anticipate common questions: Think of common questions you get asked in your speaking engagements, like “What inspired you to become a speaker?” or “What’s the best advice you have for aspiring public speakers?” Have thoughtful answers prepared in advance.
• Embrace curveballs: Podcasting is often more freeform than speaking engagements. Hosts might throw a random question at you. Stay calm, use your improv skills, and steer the conversation back to your main message.

5. Technical Setup: Perfect Your Audio and Environment

Unlike live speaking engagements, podcast guesting relies heavily on technical quality — especially when it comes to your audio.

• Invest in good equipment: Ensure your microphone and headphones are of high quality. Poor audio can distract from your message, and as a speaker, you’ll want to sound polished and professional.
• Choose the right environment: Record in a quiet, echo-free room to avoid distractions. Inform anyone nearby not to interrupt, and turn off notifications on your devices.
• Test your setup: Run a quick sound check to make sure everything is working smoothly. This step prevents technical issues that could detract from your podcast interview.

6. Practice and Polish Your Delivery

Even as a seasoned speaker, podcasting requires a slightly different approach in how you deliver your message. Practice will help you adjust to this medium.

• Record practice sessions: Speak through your talking points while recording yourself. Listening back will help you catch areas where you might ramble or sound too formal for a podcast.
• Time your responses: Unlike a conference speech, podcast interviews are often fast-paced. Practice delivering concise answers that keep the audience engaged.
• Seek feedback: Have a trusted friend or colleague listen to your practice interview. They can provide feedback on your tone, pacing, and overall delivery.

7. Engage Authentically with the Host

Public speakers are usually in control of the stage. However, during a podcast interview, the host leads the conversation. Learning to balance your expertise while engaging with the host is crucial.

• Treat it like a conversation: Podcasting is much more relaxed compared to formal speaking engagements. Respond to the host’s questions with an open mind and engage with their comments.
• Be yourself: Authenticity is key in podcast guesting. Speak naturally and don’t over-rehearse your answers. Listeners are drawn to genuine conversations rather than perfectly polished responses.

8. Post-Interview Promotion: Leverage the Opportunity

Once your podcast interview is live, take full advantage of the exposure it offers.

• Promote it on your channels: Share the episode with your audience through social media, email newsletters, and your website. Let people know you were featured as a podcast guest.
• Tag and thank the host: Build rapport by tagging the podcast host in your posts and thanking them for the opportunity. This will not only strengthen your relationship with the host but also introduce you to their network.
• Use the interview to bolster your portfolio: Add your podcast guest appearances to your speaker portfolio. A collection of guest spots demonstrates your expertise and shows that you are in demand.

Conclusion

Podcast guesting offers a valuable platform for public speakers to expand their reach, share their message, and connect with new audiences. By researching the podcast and host, understanding the format, and practicing your delivery, you’ll be ready to nail any podcast interview. Just as with live speaking, the key is in the preparation — so take the time to get it right, and you’ll leave a lasting impression that could lead to more speaking engagements and opportunities down the road.

This was originally posted on SpeakerHub Skillcamp.