Vol.1 No.19 How to Ask Powerful Questions That Elevate Your Podcast Interviews

#FunFact: Around 80% of podcast listeners listen to all or most of an episode once they start, showing how engaging podcasts can be.

You’ve got the mics set up, the guest is ready, and your podcast episode is about to go live. But here’s the thing—your interview could fall flat without the right questions. Asking great questions isn't about filling time. It's about creating a captivating, dynamic conversation. Your audience won't be able to stop listening.

So, how do you go from good to great when interviewing?

Let’s dive in.

1. Start with Research, Not Scripts

First things first—know your guest inside and out. Doing your homework sets the foundation for a meaningful conversation. But here’s the kicker: don’t let your research box you into a rigid script. The goal is to stay informed, not be robotic. When you know your guest's background, you can pivot. You'll explore new avenues if the conversation shifts.

Pro Tip: Find little-known facts or recent projects. Your guest may not get to discuss them often. This shows you have done your homework and can lead to a more engaging dialogue.

2. Ask Open-Ended Questions

Avoid asking questions that have simple "yes" or "no" answers. Instead, ask open-ended questions that encourage storytelling. These questions let your guest share insights and emotions. They create a richer listening experience.

For example:

Instead of “Did you enjoy working on that project?” try “What was the most surprising thing you learned during that project?”

- Replace “Was that challenging for you?” with “How did you overcome the challenges you faced during that process?

3. Embrace the Power of the Pause

Here’s a secret weapon in any interviewer’s toolkit: silence. After your guest answers a question, resist the urge to jump in right away. Give them a moment of silence. This often leads to your guest offering more depth. They might fill the pause with unwanted thoughts or details.

4. Listen, don't hear.

Great interviewers don’t ask questions—they listen. This may seem obvious. But it's easy to focus on your questions. You might miss a chance to explore something your guest said.

For instance, if your guest mentions a pivotal moment in their career, don’t nod and move on to the next question. Dig deeper. Ask, “What was going through your mind at that moment?” or “How did that experience shape your approach to what you do today?”

5. Get Personal (when appropriate)

People connect with people, not ideas. Don't hesitate to ask questions about your guests' experiences, values, and beliefs. These questions create lasting bonds during your interview with careful consideration.

Yet, always be mindful of the guests' comfort levels. If they seem hesitant to share, be ready to steer the conversation back to more general topics.

6. End on a High Note

The end of your interview is as important as the beginning. Could you finish by asking a question? It should leave your guest with a lasting impression. It could be, "What's your best advice for someone wanting to follow you?" or "What's next for you? How can our listeners stay connected?"

Wrapping Up

Asking great questions is an art form. It’s about curiosity, staying present, and knowing when to dig deeper. Master this skill. Your podcast interviews will then engage and resonate with your audience.

So, when you prep for an interview, remember: it's not about your questions. It's about the conversation you create.

Until next time, keep those mics hot and those questions even hotter!

Stay Connected:

Do you have a favorite interview question that always gets a great response?

Share it in the comments below!

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