How do I prepare for a podcast guest?
Prepare for a podcast guest by researching their background and past interviews, choosing the two or three stories only they can tell, and writing a short question brief with an opener, core questions and follow-ups. See our pricing page for current prices, or book a free discovery call.
What is in a guest research brief?
- A short background: role, work and why they matter to your audience.
- What they have said in recent interviews, so you don't repeat it.
- Two or three angles or stories worth drawing out.
- An opening question, five to eight core questions and a few follow-ups.
- Pronunciation notes and any topics to avoid.
Why does guest prep make a better episode?
Prepared hosts ask better follow-up questions. When you already know a guest's standard answers, you can steer toward the new material that makes an episode worth clipping and sharing. Guests notice the difference and are more likely to share the episode.
How do briefs fit with live producing?
The live producer uses the brief to keep the run of show on track and flag moments for clips. After recording, the brief helps the editor and the show notes writer get names and topics right.
How do I book better guests?
Make it easy for them to say yes: a clear one-line description of the show, who listens, how long it takes and what they need to prepare. A trailer and a few strong clips help guests understand the show quickly.
What does a guest brief help you avoid?
A brief helps you avoid the common interview problems: asking questions the guest has answered a hundred times, missing the story that makes them interesting, and mispronouncing a name or company on the recording. It also gives your editor context, so the strongest moments are easier to find when cutting clips. A good brief takes the pressure off the host and keeps the conversation moving.
What this costs at Stimulate
See our pricing page.
Frequently asked questions
When do I get the brief?
Before the recording, in time for you to review it.
Can you book guests for me?
Guest booking is not listed as a service. Ask on the discovery call.
Are briefs included in Growth?
No. They are included in Full Production, or available per guest as an add-on.
Next steps
See packages and pricing, or book a free 30-minute discovery call and we'll map out what your show needs.
Related: Live Podcast Producer · Full Podcast Production · Podcast Questions