So, you’ve landed your first guest appearance on a podcast. Go you!

Because this [securing guest appearances on podcasts] is something I do for my clients on the daily, I thought it would be helpful to share my tips and tricks to any newbies out there who want to prep and polish their pod game.

The biggie to winning at podcasting is simple: have impeccable audio.

If you’ve ever listened to a podcast and had a tough time hearing the interview, this is a classic sign of poor audio quality. This means that either the host or the guest does not have the optimal equipment and/or setting for this format.

So, let’s get into just how to make sure your episode audio is crystal clear.

But first, a movie clip.

Optimizing your audio quality for the podcast format

For those who frequent the pod-scape, these best practices are second nature. But for most of us, they are things that aren’t completely obvious. And in my experience, many hosts assume that their guests will dial-in with impeccable audio, but this is sadly not the case.

Here’s how to ensure your voice will be heard.

Do not rely on your unreliable WiFi connection. Plug into ethernet.
Use quality headphones and a USB microphone.
Avoid sitting in a chair that swivels or rocks as this will create background noise. (I learned this the hard way.)
Avoid shuffling paper or fidgeting with anything (like a pen or pencil) during the episode. (See note in previous bullet.)
Have water close by in case your vocal cords get tired.

Preparing yourself for the pod-win

As you get closer to the day you’ll be recording your first guest podcast appearance, you’ll want to check a few boxes in the preparation category. This is the advice that my clients typically ask for before recording, because, like most people, they want to be prepared for anything that might come their way.

Take note, though, that there is no way to prepare for EVERYTHING. In a good podcast episode, conversation is free flowing, so my advice here is to prepare to a point, and then trust yourself. You’re being interviewed because someone thought you were interesting… so just be yourself—trust me, you’ll be interesting!

Best pod-practices for a smooth recording experience

Listen to two recent episodes of the show before you record yours.
Ask the host if he/she has a list of frequently asked questions that you should prepare to answer.
Be at your desk at least 15 minutes prior to call to trouble shoot any unforeseen technology issues.
Have your wishlist of talking points ready in the event that you have the opportunity to drive the direction of the conversation.
Decide what your CTA (call to action) is going to be for this podcast. (What would you like to promote or ask your listeners to do if they are interested in learning more about you or your services?)
Be sure that you are clear on the audience demographics (who listens to this podcast) before you begin so you can be clear in your thinking and delivery (and it’s fair to ask the host this question before you record.)

Getting cozy with the post-pod production process

Appearing on a podcast episode doesn’t start and end with the recording session. Most hosts will not be publishing your episode immediately. You’ll likely be waiting a week or more for them to post produce (or edit) the episode, add in music and other commentary. So, it’s essential that you get clear on just when your episode will air and what the host will need from you in order to promote your episode.

What to do after the record button stops blinking

Ask the host when your show will air and what assets he or she will need from you to promote the episode.
It is customary for hosts to request headshots, candid photos, bios and/or brief write ups of a business or individual to support their promotion of the episode. Have these ready.
Some hosts will ask if there is a preferred release date that supports one of your business initiatives. Consider this if you are asked.
If something about you or your business changes between the recording and the publish date, do not hesitate to let the host know. Remember, you want this to be the best most timely reflection of you as possible.

Well, I hope this list serves you well, young Jedi… May the pod-force be with you!

No, but seriously, if you read through all of this and you check all of the boxes, I’m 100% sure that you’ll crush your podcast interview.

Remember, you’ve got the experience. You’ve got the knowledge. Trust yourself!

Cheers to you and your podcast debut,