Best Practices for Podcast Guests
      Back to home
      1. Knowledge Base
      2. Best Practices
      3. Best Practices for Podcast Guests

      Podcast Guest Best Practices (Virtual Recording)

      Preparing to be interviewed virtually for an SLM podcast? Review these tips prior to recording to ensure a great experience for yourself and listeners.

      arch-eats-final-1  house-of-lou-cover

      Technical Setup:

      • Avoid using public WiFi.
      • Use your computer, not your mobile device.
      • Turn off other applications running on your computer.
      • Silence your phone.
      • Use a headset with a built-in microphone. Wireless/Bluetooth headset and earbuds are not recommended. If you do not have a good headset that plugs into your computer, this might be a good time to get one. We recommend the Logitech H390 Wired Headset or, if you want to invest, the Logitech for Creators Blue Yeti USB Microphone. It is important to use a good microphone. Blue Yeti works with any laptop. Use wired headphones to listen to the host.

      Environment:

      • Be in a quiet place for the interview. Pay attention to ambient background noise like AC, heating, and traffic. Close the windows.
      • Avoid being in a room with a lot of echo.
      • Inform household members or colleagues about the recording to avoid interruptions. Shut the door if you can.
      • Don't shuffle papers. Keep documents away from the mic. Even if you think you are quiet, the noise will still be picked up by the mic.

      Camera and Lighting:

      • Position your camera at eye level for a natural appearance.
      • Use adequate lighting to ensure your face is well-lit and visible.

      During Recording:

      • Stay upbeat! Energy and attitude matter. Listeners evaluate a guest by audio only.
      • Keep answers concise. Punchy, tight responses are best.
      • Remember the content is edited. Although we're recording your interview, the best ones sound live.
      • Not every word or statement will be perfect, which is why every podcast is lightly edited.
      • If something goes wrong, it’s okay to ask for a do-over!
      • Drink water. Keep H2O handy.

      Promote the Episode:

      • You will receive an email with how to share the podcast episode on your social media platforms after it's released.


      STLMAG.COM/PODCASTS

      Listen, follow, and review St. Louis Magazine's podcasts on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and most places podcasts are available.