Mastering the Art of Podcasting
Abdullah Gadit
CEO & Founder at Mystic Advertising | Marketing Consultant & Trainer | KHDA Certified in Digital Marketing
Have you ever wondered what separates an average podcast interview from an exciting, can't-press-pause conversation? The key lies in the art of interviewing.?
Today, let's delve into the essential elements of conducting engaging and insightful podcast conversations, focusing on practical techniques and strategies that resonate with audiences.
Behind the scenes:
90% of your answer lies within your pre-podcast prep. Research the interviewee, their social media, their previous media engagements, their likes and dislikes and really analyze their personality. Only then will you be able to craft a seamless structure that will lead to an effortless and engaging podcast episode. After all, you are only as good as your connection with the interviewee.?
Not to mention, practice active listening. Don’t just memorize your structure and notes, blurting it out in one go. Instead, frame the conversation to where you want to lead it - and then, let the natural dynamic make the conversation effortlessly flow. Listen to what your interviewee has to say, bounce off them and ensure they feel heard. Practice such free-flowing conversations to ensure you’re well-versed with adept conversational skills to record engaging conversations that the audience just can’t get enough of.
Prepare for the unknown:
领英推荐
No matter how much prep you do, always be aware that things may deviate from your master plan. This is where the host must remain calm and composed, ensuring the audience isn’t even able to pick up on the changes!?
The ability to navigate unexpected turns is crucial. Perhaps one of the best examples is Joe Rogan's "The Joe Rogan Experience" - whose USP is unscripted conversations, showcasing? the host's ability of adapting to spontaneous moments. This highly sought after skill adds an element of authenticity and rawness to the podcast that can’t be scripted.?
Balance insights and entertainment
Lastly, whilst you maintain a fun connection with your interviewee to entertain audiences - but ensure you don’t derail from the main message. Entertainment is great, but an overload will lead to one-time listeners. Consider having a short briefing with your interviewee regarding the gist of the episode, ensuring you’re both on the same page and able to deliver some valuable insights in an entertaining manner. All it takes is a few seconds to entirely derail an episode if you’re not careful enough.
While it may seem initially daunting, podcasting is a wonderful medium gaining immense traction around the world. It’s perhaps the best time to begin building this brand, and with the practical strategies given above, you’re equipped to give it a go!?
I liked the third point, in which there is a balance between entertainment and discussion of ideas. We find examples in which the guest has a distinguished personality, but the host took a direction that was not serious or too entertaining, and he did not succeed in directing an episode that lived up to the greatness of the guest.