You Down with OPP? (Other People's Podcasts): How to be the Ultimate Podcast Guest That Listeners Trust
There are currently more than 700,000 podcasts, but as you probably know, not all podcasts are created equal! And not every interview is a winner. Luckily, thousands of people hosting and participating in podcast interviews means there’s plenty of wisdom (and mistakes) to learn from.
It can be hard to pinpoint what separates a compelling podcast from a dull one. Some interviews drag on for what seems like hours, while others fly by and leave you wanting more. But good podcasts don’t happen by accident, nor do good interviews!
With proper preparation, you can maximize your podcast interview and see outstanding results.
A good podcast interview:
Generates high-quality shareable content
Lets you go in-depth with your message and story
Creates more traffic to your website and socials
Is an excellent way to network with other thought leaders
Can boost your SEO ranking
Being a podcast guest is a potentially rewarding and satisfying experience. And that’s even more true when you’re sufficiently prepared. Below, we look at the best ways to maximize your podcast interview and get the most out of being a guest.
Know The Audience
Each podcast has a unique audience and appeal. By listening to at least two episodes, you can learn quite a bit about how to reach the listener effectively. This step will help you resonate with relevant content and leave a good impression.
If you can, write down a “persona description” of the representative listener. Ideally, the host will also help fill you in on this area! Don’t be afraid to ask.
A persona is a character you create based on your research and understanding. When writing your persona, include details like demographics, environment, goals, and values. You can’t know these things with certainty. But you can use your instincts and intuition to explore likely audience attributes, speaking to them more memorably.
Mind Your Mindset
Mindsets are like gardens: They need constant cultivation and attention. We might think we can set our philosophy and forget it, but regularly checking in is essential. Doing so helps ensure our current thoughts align with our core values.
The following questions can help support a good mindset before your interview:
Am I focused more on serving or receiving? If you feel like you’ve lost touch with who you’re serving, write it down. Be specific! For example, “I’m here to serve people who feel discouraged, left behind, or like it’s too late to step into the life they were created to live. My service is to remind them of their vast potential.”
How can I make this an opportunity to build connections and foster relationships? Relationships can include the podcast host or hosts, anyone involved in the production, and the audience. You never know who you’ll meet or reach through this interview. Treat it like the start of a new relationship because it probably is!
What would I share if the audience paid $10k a piece to hear me speak? Whatever your answer is, that’s what you should share. As the saying goes, “There are no small parts, only small players.” If you treat every opportunity with great respect, you will reap great rewards.
Am I only focusing on my own goals? Knowing what you want out of a podcast interview is essential. In fact, it’s a great idea to write down precisely what you hope this experience will accomplish. But once that step is complete, think about how you can help the host and audience reach their goals. A generous mindset like this supports the host meaningfully, leading to high-quality conversations. And it endears you to the audience, who will be able to discern that you are addressing them thoughtfully.
Share The Real You
If you’re human, the real you is made up of stories. When asked a question, try to tell a story that illustrates your perspective rather than giving quick answers. The one thing all audiences have in common is that they connect through personal stories, preferably ones that are authentic, honest, and uniquely “you.”
An essential part of your story is that you’re an expert on something. Whether botany, PTSD, or volleyball, go deep into your unique area of expertise. This will foster an environment ripe for exciting questions from the host and engaging conversation the audience can enjoy.
After all, the podcast host invited you on for a reason! They’re eager to engage you, learn from you, and listen to the story only you can tell. When the real you, you’re not only creating memorable content–you’re giving the audience a gift that no one else can!
Have a Stand-Out Call-to-Action
One of the greatest measures of success is whether your interview yields positive, measurable results. In other words, a truly maximized interview leads to conversions.
The right call-to-action or special offer can make the most of your podcast platform, bringing in loyal new customers and seriously boosting sales.
Choose an enticing offer or call-to-action that delivers for both you and the listener:
A free e-book or several free chapters, with an option to purchase the rest
An exclusive discount code good for a variety of offerings
Access to a community or group where they can receive meaningful feedback, support, and resources
A quiz with detailed, insightful results (people LOVE a quiz!)
Remember, a good call-to-action or special offer is relevant, valuable, and meets a need. Whether it’s a recipe e-book or an exclusive coupon code, the listener should get the impression they’re accessing something worthwhile, coveted, and – preferably – for a limited-time only.
