![\"Podcast](\"https:\/\/talks.co\/p\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/podcast-interview-host-and-guest-remote-conversation.jpg\")
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\nA podcast interview is a deep conversation between a podcast host and one or more guests, recorded as an episode of your show. During an interview, your guests share insights, stories, or expert knowledge.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Basically, the goal of an interview in podcasting is to provide valuable content that engages podcast listeners while spotlighting your guest\u2019s unique perspective.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Podcast and Interview Difference<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
To get a clearer picture, let\u2019s break down the differences between a podcast and an interview. That way, you can better plan your content, whether you want to keep your format consistent or you need variety.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Here\u2019s how a podcast and an interview compare based on their format, purpose, length and host:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Podcast vs interview<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
While the terms \u201cpodcast\u201d and \u201cinterview\u201d are often interchanged, they have some striking differences. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- Podcast<\/strong>: A series of audio or video episodes with different formats and topics.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Interview<\/strong>: A recorded conversation with a guest about a specific topic that focuses on getting the guest’s insights.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Are podcasts interviews?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
While many podcasts feature interviews, podcasts as a whole are not limited to just interview formats. Podcasts can also be solo shows, panel discussions, narrative storytelling, or mixes of these.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Interviews revolve around the conversation of finding things out. But podcasts can adapt its content depending on your style and purpose. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Is a podcast and interview the same?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
A podcast is a broader platform or series of episodes, while an interview is a specific type of episode or segment within that podcast.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Every podcast interview is a part of a podcast, but not every podcast episode involves an interview. For example, some episodes might be monologues or scripted stories.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
How to Do a Podcast Interview<\/h2>\n\n\n
\n![\"Liam](\"https:\/\/talks.co\/p\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/liam-austin-good-stories-podcast-interview-insights.jpg\")
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\nNervous about your first podcast interview? I\u2019ll walk you through how to prepare yourself, whether you\u2019re recording in your studio or conducting an interview online.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Let\u2019s go over each part of a podcast interview one by one.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
How to prepare for a podcast interview<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Preparing yourself sets the stage for an engaging interview experience. Here are eight steps to get ready for an interview session:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- Know your guest: <\/strong>Review the guest’s background, social media profiles, or previous interviews.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Learn from other hosts:<\/strong> Listen to hundreds of interviews of great podcasters to get inspired by their style.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Plan your episode: <\/strong>Outline the key topics or themes you want to cover in your interview.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Write a script:<\/strong> Stay on top of how you want that conversation to flow and how you\u2019ll guide the discussion if it goes off track.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Include a question bank in your script:<\/strong> Write down your questions you intend to ask, along with some backup ones.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Create a distraction-free zone:<\/strong> Ensure your recording space is quiet and free of unnecessary noise.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Test your equipment:<\/strong> Check that your microphone, headphones, and recording software are working well in advance.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Rehearse<\/strong>: Practice your intro and closing remarks to sound confident.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n
How to interview someone for a podcast<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
A podcast interview<\/a> is only as good as your rapport with guests. If you help guests get comfortable, they\u2019ll spill the best stories and insights. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Here\u2019s how you can help guests prepare for your interview: <\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- Inform them about the interview details:<\/strong> Send your guest a welcome message with the podcast interview format and what to expect.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Give them an overview: <\/strong>Provide an outline of the interview flow so they can anticipate transitions.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Show them your question bank<\/strong>: Share the questions you plan to ask ahead of time so they can prepare.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Show them how you do it:<\/strong> Offer links to your previous episodes so they get a feel for the style.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Give a pre-show heads up:<\/strong> Remind them of the scheduled time and test the call connection before the interview.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Help them set up<\/strong>: Give them instructions or a guide to help them optimize their sound quality, or use your recording software.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Warm up with a chat<\/strong>: Create a relaxed atmosphere by chatting informally before recording.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n
How to conduct a podcast interview<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
During the actual interview, there are a lot of ways to dig deep and have a really interesting conversation. As a good host, you can bring out the best in your guests when you follow these podcasting tips:<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- Welcome guests: <\/strong>Ease their nerves by talking about something personal or mentioning something about your guest. This shows your sincerity in collaborating well.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Go through your list of questions: <\/strong>Ask your prepared inquiries, but be flexible to follow up on unexpected insights.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Maintain a natural rhythm<\/strong>: Listen well and pause to let your guest finish without interrupting.\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Transition smoothly:<\/strong> Use clear cues when moving onto new topics or segments.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Pay attention:<\/strong> Watch your guest\u2019s tone and mood, and adjust the energy or pace if needed.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Avoid yes or no questions<\/strong>: Ask open-ended questions that can be explored further.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Talk about your own experiences too<\/strong>: Keep your listeners engaged by weaving in your own personal stories and examples.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Monitor your recording levels<\/strong>: Check that your audio quality is consistent throughout the recording to prevent issues with editing later on.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Wrap up the session<\/strong>: Close by allowing the guest to share where listeners can find them. Thank your guest warmly.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Update your guest<\/strong>: Keep them posted about any of the materials you\u2019ll publish, including teasers, episode cover, and the final edited episode.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n
How to conduct a podcast interview online<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Remote interviews have become the norm. Here\u2019s how you can conduct interviews even if you and your guest are on opposite sides of the world:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- Remote recording software<\/strong>: Use reliable platforms known for quality recording, like Zoom, Riverside, Zencastr, or SquadCast.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Pre-interview tech check<\/strong>: Troubleshoot any possible audio and internet issues.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Plan B<\/strong>: Have a backup recording method ready.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Sound monitoring: <\/strong>Encourage your guests to use headphones to avoid echo.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Individual recording<\/strong>: Record locally on both ends when possible to capture the best audio.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Mute button<\/strong>: Use the mute button effectively when not speaking to minimize background noise.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Interview cues:<\/strong> Communicate clearly with your guest if you cut or pause recording.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Post-production<\/strong>: After recording, sync and tidy up your podcast recording with editing software.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n
How to Do a Good Podcast Interview<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
A great podcast interview isn\u2019t just about asking questions. It\u2019s about connecting with your guest and managing everything professionally.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Here are some of those things that make a good podcast interview:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- Being well-prepared when it comes to the structure and setup of the interview.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Asking personalized questions so your guest can get deep and give specific answers.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Conversational atmosphere that makes guests feel comfortable opening up.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Open-ended and thought-provoking questions.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Showing authenticity and curiosity, which keeps listeners engaged.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Balanced talking time between you as the host and your guest.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Removing unnecessary distractions and noise.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Most importantly, be authentic. In my experience, having real takes and being opinionated brings out unique conversations that haven’t been heard before.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Podcast Interviewing Tips<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Take your cue from these best practices for interviewing podcast guests and successfully grow your show:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- Prepare a mix of questions: <\/strong>Ask about facts, feelings, personal anecdotes, and expert advice.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Start with warm-up questions:<\/strong> Go with something light and easy in the beginning to build rapport.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Use silence effectively:<\/strong> Don\u2019t rush to fill gaps. Your guests need time to think of an answer.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Paraphrase or summarize answers:<\/strong> Echo and validate what your guests shared, so listeners can clearly pick them up.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Avoid leading questions<\/strong>: These can lead to biased responses and guests feeling offended.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Encourage your guest to elaborate<\/strong>: Instead of rushing to wrap things up, stay with a topic using prompts like \u201ctell me more about that.\u201d<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Stay present<\/strong>: Avoid checking your notes too often and really pay attention to what your guest is saying.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Wrap it up nicely:<\/strong> End with a question that invites guests to share final thoughts or future plans.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Keep improving:<\/strong> Review your recordings later to refine interview style and pacing.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n
Best Podcast Interview Questions<\/h2>\n\n\n
\n![\"Liam](\"https:\/\/talks.co\/p\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/liam-austin-best-interview-podcast-episode-lead-generation.jpg\")
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\nKnowing the right podcast questions to ask is essential to uncover great stories and information.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
They show that you\u2019re genuinely interested in knowing more. Guests could tell if you\u2019re actually willing to dive deep or if you\u2019re just following a list of questions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
When asking interview questions, try to also think about your listener\u2019s perspective. Ask questions that they would be most curious about.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Good podcast interview questions<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
These questions help dive into a specific topic that matters to your audience:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- What inspired you to get involved in this field?<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Can you describe a challenge related to this topic and how you overcame it?<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- What are some common misconceptions people have?<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- What advice would you give someone starting out?<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- How has your perspective on this changed over time?<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- What trends should listeners watch in this area?<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Could you share a story that illustrates this issue?<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Podcast guest interview questions<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
If your interview is about getting to know a guest and their life experiences, try out these questions: <\/p>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- How did you get started on your journey?<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- What motivates you every day?<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- What\u2019s a defining moment from your career?<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- How do you unwind outside your work?<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Can you share an unexpected fact about yourself?<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- What\u2019s been the biggest learning from your experiences?<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Who are your role models or influences?<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Questions for podcast interviews<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
If you want to explore your guest\u2019s answers, you can use these prompts or follow-up questions: <\/p>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- Can you explain that a bit more?<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- How did that make you feel?<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- What happened next?<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Why do you think that\u2019s important?<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- How did that change your approach?<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- What would you do differently now?<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Can you give an example?<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Check out these guides for podcast interview questions<\/a> and questions to ask a guest speaker<\/a> for more ideas.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Podcast Interview Software<\/h2>\n\n\n
\n![\"Remote](\"https:\/\/talks.co\/p\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/recording-your-interview-with-remote-podcast-software.jpg\")
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\nIt\u2019s not enough to mentally prepare for an interview. You have to have the right tools to back up your vision.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
One of the things you have to prepare for a podcast interview<\/a> is your recording software. Choosing the right one makes your workflow smoother. It can also boost your audio quality and make things easier for editing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Podcast interview recording software<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Here are some of the best software for podcast interviews:<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- Riverside.fm:<\/strong> Offers high-quality audio and video recording, local tracks, and easy, separate editing.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Zencastr:<\/strong> Browser-based and records audio locally. Supports separate tracks for easy podcast editing.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- SquadCast:<\/strong> Studio-quality sound and video, cloud recording, and reliable remote interviews.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Cleanfeed:<\/strong> Great for live recording with multiple guests, with only minimal delay.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Audacity<\/strong>: Free editing tool for recording and polishing audio locally.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Zoom<\/strong>: Common but internet-dependent, best used with backup local recording.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n
Podcast interview set up<\/h3>\n\n\n
\n![\"Podcast](\"https:\/\/talks.co\/p\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/podcast-interview-setup-for-guest-and-host-studio.jpg\")
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\nGearing up for an interview means getting your equipment, studio and software in order. Here\u2019s how you can set up for a podcast interview:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- Prepare a dedicated space: <\/strong>Choose a quiet room with minimal echo.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Use a quality microphone: <\/strong>Try a USB or XLR microphone for recording.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Wear headphones: <\/strong>Avoid feedback during recording.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Position your mic:<\/strong> Place your mic in front of you, but with enough distance to avoid popping sounds. Use a pop filter if it can\u2019t be helped.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Test your sound levels before starting<\/strong>: Make sure that there won\u2019t be explosive noises or other technical issues that will disrupt the recording.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Check your computer or laptop<\/strong>: Make sure your device has enough processing power.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Close background apps<\/strong>: Avoid sudden lags or interruptions that can increase delay.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Set proper lighting:<\/strong> If you\u2019re recording a video podcast, use a softbox or ring light to improve video quality.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Place your materials nearby:<\/strong> Arrange your interview format documents, notes, and timer within reach.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n
Podcast interview background music<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Should you include background music when editing your interview podcast? It varies for different types of podcast shows and styles.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Here\u2019s a quick rundown of pros and cons to help you decide how you can create the best content:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Pros<\/strong>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- Sets the tone and mood for the episode.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Smoothly transitions between segments or topics.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Engages listeners by filling silent gaps.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Cons<\/strong>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- Too loud music can distract from the conversation.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Overused background music might annoy some listeners.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Finding free, legally cleared music can be challenging.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Podcast Interview Format<\/h2>\n\n\n
\n![\"Infographic](\"https:\/\/talks.co\/p\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/podcast-format-interview-structure-step-by-step.png\")
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\nHere\u2019s a simple format to follow for interviewing podcast episodes<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- Intro<\/strong>: Welcome listeners, introduce your guest, and outline the interview angle or theme.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Icebreaker questions<\/strong>: Start off with light and easy questions to warm up the conversation.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Main interview:<\/strong> Dive into your prepared podcast interview questions covering key topics.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Follow-up:<\/strong> Ask spontaneous or clarifying questions about interesting answers that come up.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Call to action: <\/strong>Give your guest time to share their contact info or offers.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Closing remarks:<\/strong> Summarize key points and thank the guest and listeners.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n
Podcast interview template<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Having a roadmap for your podcast interview format keeps your episodes structured and engaging. Use this simple podcast interview template:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Podcast title: _____________________<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n
Episode title: _____________________<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n
Guest name: _____________________<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n
Date of recording: _____________________<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n
I. Introduction<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n
Briefly introduce yourself and your podcast\u2019s mission.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Introduce the guest with a short bio highlighting their story.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
II. Icebreaker questions <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- How did you get started in your field?<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- What motivates you every day?<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Can you share a fun or unexpected fact about yourself?<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
III. Main interview<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- Question 1: [Insert your opening question related to the key topic]<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Question 2: [Follow-up to dive deeper into guests\u2019 experience]<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Question 3: [Explore challenges or lessons learned]<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Question 4: [Discuss trends or advice for listeners]<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Question 5: [Share a personal story or pivotal moment]<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
IV. Listener engagement section<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n
Ask any questions submitted by your audience (if applicable).<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Invite the guest to share where listeners can find them online (website, social media).<\/p>\n\n\n\n
V. Closing<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n
Summarize a key takeaway from the interview.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Thank the guest for joining and sharing their insights.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Encourage listeners to subscribe, rate, and share the podcast.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Preview upcoming episodes or topics.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Interview podcast script<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Need help to kick-start your podcast script? Follow these steps:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- Know your objective:<\/strong> Start by drafting your episode goals.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Write your introduction<\/strong>: Include key details about you and your guest. Think about how to hook new and loyal listeners.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- List your questions:<\/strong> Plan how you\u2019ll flesh out answers using inquiring questions.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Think about your flow:<\/strong> Script transitions but leave room for natural flow.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Write your closing: <\/strong>Leave time for shoutouts and future episode teasers.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Rephrase to be conversational: <\/strong>Rehearse your script and listen to how it rolls over your tongue. Revise if it sounds too mechanical.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Polish with AI:<\/strong> Use AI tools to draft or polish your scripts quickly when needed.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n
Podcast interview script example<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
An AI podcast script generator<\/a> provides structured interview outlines, quickly creating scripts based on your topic and guest profile.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Here\u2019s a podcast interview script example when you type \u201cinterview of a life coach\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Host<\/strong>: What inspired you to be a life coach?<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Sarah<\/strong>: Well, it all started when I went through a major life transition myself. I was feeling lost and unsure about my future, and I decided to seek the help of a life coach. That experience inspired me to become a coach myself.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Host<\/strong>: That’s a powerful story, Sarah. Can you share with us what exactly a life coach does?<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Sarah<\/strong>: Absolutely. A life coach is someone who works with clients to identify their goals, overcome obstacles, and create a plan of action to achieve those goals. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
How to Find Good Podcast Guests<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
- Write your introduction<\/strong>: Include key details about you and your guest. Think about how to hook new and loyal listeners.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Know your objective:<\/strong> Start by drafting your episode goals.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Icebreaker questions<\/strong>: Start off with light and easy questions to warm up the conversation.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Intro<\/strong>: Welcome listeners, introduce your guest, and outline the interview angle or theme.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Use a quality microphone: <\/strong>Try a USB or XLR microphone for recording.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Zencastr:<\/strong> Browser-based and records audio locally. Supports separate tracks for easy podcast editing.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Riverside.fm:<\/strong> Offers high-quality audio and video recording, local tracks, and easy, separate editing.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Start with warm-up questions:<\/strong> Go with something light and easy in the beginning to build rapport.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Prepare a mix of questions: <\/strong>Ask about facts, feelings, personal anecdotes, and expert advice.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Pre-interview tech check<\/strong>: Troubleshoot any possible audio and internet issues.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Go through your list of questions: <\/strong>Ask your prepared inquiries, but be flexible to follow up on unexpected insights.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Give them an overview: <\/strong>Provide an outline of the interview flow so they can anticipate transitions.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Learn from other hosts:<\/strong> Listen to hundreds of interviews of great podcasters to get inspired by their style.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Interview<\/strong>: A recorded conversation with a guest about a specific topic that focuses on getting the guest’s insights.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n