The Art of Podcast Interviewing - Using the Golden Circle Framework

In the world of podcasting, tapping into the profound stories of our guests isn't just about asking the right questions—it's about understanding the essence of what drives them. As a podcasting and content strategist who helps businesses craft stories that build community, brand, and business, I’ve found that one particularly effective framework for achieving this is Simon Sinek's Golden Circle. This model not only enhances the depth and authenticity of podcast interviews but also encourages guests to open up in ways that are both genuine and engaging.

At its core, the Golden Circle is about clarifying why we do what we do, how we do it, and what exactly it is that we do. When applied to podcasts, this strategy can transform interviews from simple conversations into powerful narratives that resonate deeply with listeners. Here's how I integrate the Golden Circle into my podcast strategy to uncover more authentic and profound stories.

Starting with 'Why' Every episode, I aim to explore not just what my guest does, but why they do it. This goes beyond their professional surface to touch on their motivations, dreams, and the values that drive their actions. When guests share their 'Why', it instantly creates a connection with listeners who see parts of themselves in these motivations. It’s about tapping into the shared human experience, which is a powerful way to engage an audience. "Tell me about the moment you realized that this is what you wanted to do," is a question that often leads to unexpected revelations and emotional stories.

Moving to 'How' After establishing the 'Why', the conversation naturally progresses to the 'How'. This focuses on the methods, techniques, or unique approaches the guest uses in their field. It's here that the authenticity of the storytelling comes to the forefront, as the guest discusses their personal methods and the challenges they’ve overcome. This not only adds depth to the narrative but also provides valuable insights for listeners who may be looking to navigate similar paths. Questions like, "How did you develop your approach?" or "What challenges did you face and how did you overcome them?" lead to detailed, instructive narratives.

Concluding with 'What' Finally, we discuss the 'What'—the outcomes, products, or services that result from the guest’s motivations and methods. This ties back to the beginning of our conversation, giving listeners a full-circle understanding of the guest’s journey. By the time we talk about the 'What', the audience isn't just hearing about a product or a service; they're hearing a story of passion and perseverance. This segment solidifies the guest’s story in the listeners' minds, making the episode memorable and shareable.

If you want to hear a good example of someone who uses the Golden Circle framework - listen to Tim Murphy's Edina Advice Giver Podcast. He used this framework for every interview which pulled great stories out of the guest:

Integrating the Golden Circle into Your Podcast Strategy To effectively use the Golden Circle in your podcast, it’s essential to prepare thoroughly. Before each interview, research your guest’s background to tailor your questions that probe deeply into their 'Why', 'How', and 'What'. It’s also important to create a comfortable and open environment where guests feel safe to share their stories authentically. Remember, the goal is to move past the superficial layers of their professional persona to uncover the real person and their journey.

Using the Golden Circle for deeper podcast interviews not only enhances the quality of the content but also builds a stronger connection between the guest and the audience. It’s a strategy that elevates stories, making them not just heard but felt. And in a world where content is abundant but often lacks depth, podcasts that can deliver authentic and profound stories stand out significantly.

So, whether you’re just starting out or looking to refine your podcast approach, consider incorporating the Golden Circle into your strategy. It’s a powerful way to enhance your interviews and ensure that each episode not only informs but also inspires and connects, truly making each conversation a journey worth listening to.