I've previously written about how to be a good podcast guest, but this guide goes deeper into the preparation you can do as a guest. As the great Michael Jordan emphasized, if you put in the work, the results will come. In this case, the result is being an exceptional podcast guest. Maybe you'll get invited back, or perhaps the host will recommend you to other podcasts. The top podcasters often know each other—it's a small circle—and I always believe in karma.
Now, let's dive into how you can prepare effectively:
1. Do Research on the Podcast
If you have a Podseeker account, you can access general podcast information along with descriptions from the latest episodes. As a comprehensive podcast database, we also provide interesting demographics information, such as gender skew.
The gender skew indicates whether the topics discussed are primarily of interest to males, females, or neutral. It doesn't mean all the listeners are female if it shows a female skew; rather, it suggests that the content appeals more to female audiences. You can also see the number of reviews, episodes, and the podcast's rating.
Additionally, using our podcast search features, you can find shows that align with your interests or expertise. This helps tailor your preparation even more effectively.
You can also use a tool like Snipcast that generates summaries of podcast episodes. Reading summaries of past episodes will give you an idea of the topics covered and how the conversation flows. Some hosts like to have preset topics to discuss, while others prefer to go with the flow. You can gauge this from the summaries.
Note: Podcast summarization is a trending field, especially with the rise of AI and large language models like ChatGPT. At Podseeker, we're always on the lookout for new developments, so stay tuned as I'll update this guide if we have any news.
2. Get the Vibe of the Podcast
You can't fully grasp the vibe of a podcast just from reading summaries. I recommend that you listen to or watch episodes on Spotify or YouTube. Part of being prepared is matching the energy of the show. Some podcasts are serious, while others are more relaxed and casual.
You can listen directly from Podseeker or find the podcasts on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Try to set aside at least 15–30 minutes to get a feel for the vibe and tone of the show.
3. Do Research on the Host
If you want to go above and beyond, research the podcast host. Many hosts also appear on other podcasts, and you can see what they like to talk about. Often, hosts stick to a script or outline on their own show because they know what their audience likes; however, they might love to talk about something else on another podcast.
You can also Google recent news about them or read their bio on Wikipedia.
Think about questions the interviewer might ask you. Consider this as a soft lob for you to hit out of the park. This will help you navigate any lulls in the interview. It's simple yet so effective. The host's job is hard enough—they have to think of so many things at once. Mentally, it can be tough, so have an escape valve for the conversation to reset and continue smoothly.
4. Think About What Success Looks Like
In how to be a good podcast guest, I wrote about the success framework. While preparing and doing your research, think about what success looks like for everyone involved:
- What does success look like to the host?
- What does success look like to the audience?
- What does success look like to you?
Now that you have a better grasp of the podcast format, topics, audience, and host, you can prepare for what success looks like. Envision which topics will be fun to talk about, which anecdotes will be engaging, and how to match the energy of the show.
If it's an educational podcast, prepare one solid tip at the end that will make the host and listeners go, "Wow, this interview was worth it!" You want to end with a grand finale—an actionable tip that makes the whole session worthwhile.
5. Practice Your Answers
There are some common questions that always come up, and you need to hone your pitch. This is like an interview question. Sometimes they just want to know more about you, but to keep it engaging, you want to tie it to why you're there in the first place. What series of steps from your origin story led you to this podcast at this moment in time?
Here are some common questions to prep for:
- How did you get into this?
- What were you doing before that?
- Why did this or that happen?
- Where can people learn more about you or your topic?
Preparation is key. I like to write it down. Use something like ChatGPT to help you summarize it in your own tone. Keep it short—prompt ChatGPT that this should be a 30-second to 2-minute intro to ensure it's brief enough.
Then, for the next level, record yourself delivering it. Listen to it. Watch yourself. You never know when a clip can go viral. More practice is always good.
6. Show Up on Time
This goes without saying, but sometimes doing the simple things well is the hard part. Set reminders on your iPhone, Android, computer, or wall calendar. Important! Don't schedule important errands before and after since those may run over—traffic might be bad, your car could break down, etc. Focus and do the simple things well.
7. Show Up in a Private, Quiet Space with Good Lighting
Another simple yet crucial point. You'll be listening and talking a lot. I don't know about you, but if there's too much noise in the background, my mind tends to focus on that instead of the person I'm talking to. So, please try to find a quiet place. A private one is even better because sometimes you'll be more timid if you know people might be watching and listening to you. It's like you speak more freely when you're alone.
Good lighting is also important because video recordings are mainstream now. One major driving force is repurposing content for TikTok, Reels, etc. Many podcast recording platforms now support video, and many will simply record in video in case they want to repurpose content.
Also, keep in mind any echoes in the room, which ideally will be mitigated by your equipment—which brings me to my next point.
8. Get Decent Equipment
iPhone AirPods have been getting better, but you can do better than that. Invest in some quality gear. Something mid-range is good enough. For example:
- Shure MV7 USB Microphone – around $200
- RØDE NTH-100 Headphones – around $150
With this equipment, you will sound more professional and be able to share your voice and build your brand. It's important to be associated with high quality. The internet has made starting podcasts easy, so mediocrity is the norm. You want to stand out with high-quality audio.
9. Dress and Look the Part
Although the main content on podcasts is audio, as I mentioned previously, video podcasts are now mainstream, so do dress and look the part. You're building a brand, and it's important to be associated with what you want to be.
Some preparation goes a long way, so take notes and happy guesting!
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