The Writer's Life—5 Tips for Professional-sounding Podcasts

by Lori Hatcher @LoriHatcher2

Podcast industry data reveals there are at least three million podcasts today*. If you’re an author, appearing on a podcast is an excellent way to expand your reach, promote your book, and share your message. If you’re fortunate enough to secure an invitation to appear on a podcast, these five tips will help your interview sound polished and professional.

5 Tips for a Professional-sounding Podcast

1. Do your homework. 

Listen to a few episodes of the show to get a feel for the host’s style, format, and personality. Are the interviews free-flowing and casual or structured? What’s the time frame? Does the host ask questions and expect the guest to carry the majority of the conversation, or do they chime in with their experiences and knowledge?

2. Prepare your environment. 

Plan ahead to ensure the best possible recording. Minimize noise by silencing your phone and notifications on your watch and computer. Use earphones on your phone or computer to reduce room noise. Here’s a link to my favorite (inexpensive) earphones. Choose a quiet location, preferably a carpeted room or walk-in closet. Clothes and wall hangings are great noise dampeners. Avoid recording in rooms with tile, hardwood, or high ceilings.

3. Confirm whether the recording is audio, visual, or both. 

Many podcasts have a video component. On a recent broadcast, the host and I chatted over a Zoom-type channel. Later, she posted the video interview on YouTube and released the audio version through her podcast channel. Never assume you can show up in your pajamas with no makeup on. Check first.

4. Test your link and equipment well before the time.

Invariably, my Zoom account always decides to update two minutes before an interview. Or I discover my phone battery’s low and I need to recharge. If I check these details an hour before instead of a few minutes before, I have time to make the necessary corrections and avoid a heart-pounding last-minute panic.

5. Make sure you have everything you need nearby.

Always have water available. Room temperature is easiest on your throat. Use a straw to reduce the risk of swallowing wrong and having to cough. If you’re using notes (don’t trust your memory), print them in 14-point font. Write the host’s name and program name on a sticky note in case of a brain freeze. 

The next time you receive an invitation to appear on a podcast, accept the invitation with confidence. Apply these five tips, prepare well, and have fun. 

Now it’s your turn. Share your favorite recording tip in the comments below so we can learn from each other. Happy podcasting!

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* https://www.listennotes.com/podcast-stats/

Lori Hatcher is an author, blogger, writing instructor, women’s ministry speaker, and career dental hygienist. She writes for Our Daily Bread, Guideposts, Revive Our Hearts, and Crosswalk.com. Check out her latest devotional, Refresh Your Hope, 60 Devotions for Trusting God with All Your Heart from Our Daily Bread Publishing. Connect with her at www.LoriHatcher.com or on Facebook, Twitter (@lorihatcher2) or Pinterest (Hungry for God)

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