E482 - Top 5 Mistakes Podcast Hosts Make When Interviewing A Guest (And How to Fix Them)

The How To Podcast Series - Revolving Guest Co-Hosts, Podcast Tips and A Community for Podcasters

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Episode 482 - Top 5 Mistakes Podcast Hosts Make When Interviewing A Guest (And How to Fix Them)

Becoming a better podcast host, especially when interviewing guests, is about mastering the art of succinct questioning, allowing space for your guest, guiding the flow, listening with intention, and always keeping your audience in mind. How to Be a Better Host with Guests

Ask More Succinct Questions

Do thorough research on your guest: Know their background so you can ask unique questions beyond what they’ve answered elsewhere.
Aim for open-ended, concise, and clear questions: Keep questions focused and easy to understand; avoid lengthy or complicated phrasing that could confuse both your guest and listeners.
Avoid leading questions: Let the guest bring out their story, resist pushing them in a certain direction.

Give Guests Space

Pause after asking: Don’t rush to fill silence; give guests time to think and respond, which often leads to richer stories.
Let the conversation flow: Don’t stick too rigidly to your script—sometimes the most compelling moments come from unscripted dialog.

Guide the Conversation

Set expectations: Brief guests ahead of recording and share the tone, style, and what kinds of questions you’ll ask.
Establish rapport: Spend a few minutes chatting before recording to make your guest feel comfortable, helping their personality to shine.
Use a flexible outline: Draft talking points, but be ready to adapt based on your guest’s responses.

Listen Better

Practice active listening: Fully concentrate on your guest, picking up both verbal and nonverbal cues.
Be present: If you get distracted, try grounding yourself physically to refocus on the conversation.
Ask follow-up questions: Show you value their answers by digging deeper, which also keeps the audience engaged.

Be Mindful of the Listener

Balance depth and accessibility: Ask questions that are relevant to your audience’s interests and avoid jargon or inside references unless explained.
Keep the episode’s objective clear: Deliver value every minute—summary, actionable advice, or memorable stories that will resonate and stick with listeners.
Audit your show: Periodically review feedback or listen yourself to see how well you’re informing, entertaining, and connecting with your audience.

These practices not only elevate the quality of your episodes—they help build lasting relationships with guests and keep listeners coming back for more.

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