So You’ve Been Booked On a Podcast, Now What?
What really shapes your guest appearance on a podcast is everything that happens after you’ve been booked.
In many cases, the first step is a brief screening call—a quick “get to know you” conversation. The host or producer will share their initial thoughts on your pitch, and together you’ll talk through ideas to shape a topic that fits both your expertise and their audience.
Sometimes they’ll take the angle you pitched, and other times they’ll want to talk through it and refine it with you.
I’ve had screening calls where the host shares the topics their show is currently focused on and asks whether any align with my expertise. We’ll talk it through, and sometimes the takeaway is that I can reconnect if I think of an idea that better fits their direction. This is a common way these early conversations unfold.
Other times, the call is simply an invitation to share more about yourself, which is great practice for the actual interview. Even though listeners only hear the edited final version, most podcast conversations begin with a brief introduction about who you are and how you got into your line of work.
Or sometimes the host just wants to hear your story.
Treat the Screening Call Like the Real Thing
It's important to treat even the initial prep or screening call as practice—almost like you’re already on the live episode. Be ready to talk about yourself. It can feel a little awkward, because most of us aren’t used to talking about our own journey, but that’s exactly why you’re there. And it’s what makes podcasts so compelling: listeners get to truly know the person behind the expertise.
So give yourself some grace. Your story is interesting, and people do want to hear from you. Lean into that. Share stories as you answer questions, and think about anything during the screening call that might help you feel more comfortable and grounded as a guest.
Don’t hesitate to ask questions. For example:
What do you look for in a great guest?
What makes a strong conversation on your show?
What do your listeners typically respond well to?
Getting that real-time feedback can help you shape your approach before the actual recording.
You’ll also want to confirm whether the episode will be recorded on video. The host will naturally be paying attention to your lighting, background, and audio quality during that prep or screening call. They’re looking to make sure everything will translate well on camera.
Because of that, try to set yourself up the same way you would for the actual interview. You don’t want to be calling in from your car for this one. Creating that consistent environment helps you show up polished and prepared.
And all of this is simply part of the overall prep process of becoming a podcast guest.
Get Your Podcast Setup Ready
Consider your:
Lighting
Audio quality (invest in a good mic)
Internet connection
Background
Small details make a meaningful difference.
Having your setup ready before the prep or screening call also gives you time to practice and troubleshoot. Many shows use platforms like Riverside.fm, where they’ll send a link to join the recording room. Others use Zoom and edit afterward.
Whatever the setup, being prepared ensures you show up confident and ready.
I've done a handful of podcast interviews that were audio-only, but the majority these days are recorded on video as well. Some hosts work out of a studio, but most interviews are virtual, so there are all kinds of setups you might encounter.
Plan for the Recording Environment
When it’s time to record the actual episode, you’ll want to do your best to have a quiet space. I’ve had moments where I needed noise-canceling headphones because my kids were home from school—and that’s just real life. Everyone has dogs, families, doorbells, neighbors, or noise outside. It’s completely normal. The goal is simply to prepare for whatever scenario might come up so you can show up with the best sound and video possible.
And once you’re recording, the most important thing is to just be yourself. They booked you for a reason, so trust that and show up as you.
They invited you on because they found you interesting and believed your perspective would be valuable for their listeners. So try to relax and be yourself—it’s truly just a conversation. That’s what makes podcasts so engaging: listeners feel like they’re sitting in on a real, human exchange and getting to know the people behind the voices.
And just like in media interviews, many podcasts end with a question such as, “Is there anything else you’d like to share with our listeners?” or “Where can people find you?” Be prepared for that final moment.
Think ahead about any key message you didn’t have the chance to fully cover, or anything essential you want listeners to walk away with. Also be ready to share where people can find you—your website, social channels, or any links relevant to your work.
If you’re ready to start landing podcast interviews but don’t have the time to manage the research and outreach, our team can help. Book some time with us, and let us help you make a Splash!
