Step 1: Know Your Audience

Forget chasing celebrities. Your guests need to bring actual value to your specific audience. This isn't about who you want to talk to—it's about who your listeners want to hear from.

Finding the Right Guests: A Tactical Approach

• Social Media Stalking (Professionally)
  Look for experts with active social channels, interesting perspectives, and meaningful insights.
• Leverage Podcast Matchmaking Sites
  Try platforms like Podchaser, Podmatch, and Matchmaker.fm.

The Outreach That Actually Works

Your first email is make-or-break. Here's the formula:

• Quick introduction
• Why THEY matter to YOUR audience
• Specific interview details
• What's in it for them

Prep Like a Pro: Questions That Spark Magic

Forget standard Q&A. You want questions that reveal unexpected stories, challenge common assumptions, and go deeper than surface-level small talk.

Sample Questions That Don't Suck

• "What's a common myth in your industry most people believe?"
• "When did you grow the most, and what triggered that growth?"
• "Is there a question you wish people would ask you?"

Technical Setup: Keep It Simple

• Solid internet connection
• Decent microphone
• Quiet recording space
• Basic editing skills

The Interview Arc: How to Keep Listeners Hooked

• Grab attention with a unique opener
• Establish conversation focus
• Explore backstory and motivations
• Dive into challenges
• Reveal transformative outcomes

Bonus Pro Tip: Audience Participation

Let your listeners submit questions. It's free marketing and keeps your audience engaged.

What Success Really Looks Like

Great interview podcasts aren't born overnight. Expect:

• Tons of rejection
• Awkward first interviews
• Constant learning
• Gradual improvement

The Bottom Line

An outstanding interview podcast takes work. No shortcuts. No magic bullets. Just consistent effort, genuine curiosity, and a relentless focus on creating value for your audience.