Have you ever wondered what it takes to be an engaging and successful podcast host? Being a podcast host is so much more than pressing ‘record’ and asking questions. It involves preparation, active listening, and thoughtful follow-ups. In a recent episode of “Oh My Pod,” hosts Justin and Celine delved deep into the nitty-gritty of podcast hosting. They talked about the whole process, breaking it down into three main phases: Preparation, During the Episode, and Post-Episode. So, if you’re looking to improve your podcast hosting skills or just starting and want to get it right, read on.
The Three Phases of Podcast Hosting
Justin and Celine broke down the hosting process into three critical phases:
- Preparation
- During the Episode
- Post-Episode
Understanding these phases will provide you with a structured approach, making your podcast hosting journey smoother and more professional.
Phase 1: Preparation
Use a Guest Intake Form and Scheduling Tools
Justin and Celine recommend using a guest intake form and a scheduling tool to get organized. Having a standardized way of gathering information from your guests not only helps you prepare but also sets a level of professionalism from the get-go. A guest intake form can include questions about the guest’s background, expertise, and what they wish to discuss. Utilizing scheduling tools like Calendly or Doodle can streamline appointment settings, eliminating back-and-forths and time zone confusion.
Research and Plan Ahead
Another crucial aspect of the preparation phase is research. You should know your guests inside and out—what they do, what they’re passionate about, and what they can offer to your audience. Curate your questions based on this research to provide maximum value to your audience.
Tip #1: Look up prior interviews, read their blogs, or listen to their podcasts if they have one.
Phase 2: During the Episode
Confidence and Awareness are Key
Once the microphones are on, your hosting skills come into play. One of the most important aspects, according to our hosts, is confidence. A confident demeanor can captivate your audience and make the guest feel comfortable. Also, be aware of your speech—pauses are effective when used correctly, and avoiding filler words can make your questions more concise and easy to understand.
Tip #2: Use pauses effectively and be aware of your tone and pacing. This will make your speech more engaging and easier to follow.
Focus on Active Listening
Remember, the episode is not about you; it’s about your guests and the value they are providing to your audience. Listen attentively, and don’t be afraid to go off-script if your guest says something exciting. Good follow-up questions often come from a place of active listening.
Phase 3: Post-Episode
Follow Up with Your Guest
The work isn’t done when you hit ‘stop’ on the recording. The post-episode phase is equally crucial. Follow up with your guest to show appreciation and to ensure that everything is set for the episode release.
Thank your guest for their time and provide them with the links to the episode once it’s live. It’s a professional courtesy and also encourages them to share the episode within their networks.
Ask for Reviews and Promote
Sharing your podcast episode on social media platforms is an excellent way to attract a larger audience. Not only that but if you’ve built a rapport with your guest, social media can be a space where both of you engage with the audience, thus extending the life of the episode.
Build a Relationship with the Guest
If your guests had a good experience, they would be more likely to return or even recommend other guests for your show. Building professional relationships can be one of the most rewarding aspects of being a podcast host.
Final Thoughts
Justin and Celine stress that the most important aspect of being a podcast host is being fully present during the interviews. Avoid distractions like phones, other people, or multitasking. Your guest has taken the time to be on your show; the least you can do is respect that by giving them your full attention.
Hosting a podcast is an art that requires skill, preparation, and presence of mind. By breaking down the process into preparation, execution, and post-episode activities, you can methodically improve your hosting skills. Remember, the aim is not just to produce content but to provide value to your listeners, guests, and yourself.
So there you have it! Whether you’re an aspiring podcaster or looking to up your hosting game, these insights from Justin and Celine should guide you in the right direction.
Happy Podcasting!
Watch the full episode here ⬇️
This blog post is based on episode 29 of “Oh My Pod.” To get the full experience and listen to the episode, click here!
Listen to Oh My Pod
Listen on Spotify
Listen on Apple Podcasts
Connect with us: @podigypodcasts
