Podcast Guests: How to Interview them and Get Real Human Reactions
If you're hosting a podcast (or planning to start one), you know the difference between a decent chat and a truly memorable episode often comes down to the interview itself. Too many business podcasts end up sounding like LinkedIn posts being read aloud: polished, rehearsed, and a bit... robotic.
The good news? You can flip that script. The best interviews feel like genuine conversations because they create psychological safety and spark real curiosity. When your guest feels safe to be themselves, the corporate mask drops, and you get those raw, human moments that listeners love. Here's how to make it happen, step by step.
Start Before the Microphones Are On
Start Before the Microphones Are On
The strongest interviews often begin ten minutes before you hit record. Use that pre-recording time for a relaxed, no-agenda chat. Ask how their day is going, what they've been up to lately, or even something light like their favourite spot in Glasgow or Edinburgh.
This builds familiarity and helps them warm up their voice. More importantly, it lets them drop their guard and shift out of "performance mode". By the time you start recording, they already feel heard and comfortable. We've seen this work wonders in our studio sessions – guests open up faster and the energy flows naturally from the off.
Ask for Stories, Not Opinions
Opinions usually trigger rehearsed, safe answers. Stories pull from memory and emotion, slowing people down and making them more authentic.
Instead of the classic: “What do you think makes a good leader?”
Try something like: “Can you remember a moment when you realised you were not leading well, and what happened next?”
Or for a Scottish business angle: “Tell me about the time you had to navigate a tricky funding round with Scottish Enterprise – what was going through your mind?”
These kinds of questions invite vulnerability and real experiences. Listeners connect far more with a founder sharing a tough setback in Aberdeen or a breakthrough in Dundee than with generic advice.
Sit in Silence Longer Than Feels Comfortable
Sit in Silence Longer Than Feels Comfortable
This one takes practice, but it's powerful. When a guest finishes answering, resist the urge to jump in straight away. Hold the silence for a few extra beats.
That pause often invites deeper reflection. Guests might add a surprising detail, correct themselves, or share something they hadn't planned to. Some of the most powerful moments in podcasts come right after a well-timed silence – it gives space for honesty to emerge.
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Let Imperfection Stay in the Edit
Perfect answers can sound fake. Slight hesitations, laughter, a bit of uncertainty, or even self-correction – these are what make a guest relatable and human.
Don't over-edit the humanity out of the conversation. Listeners want to hear real people, not scripted robots. A slight stumble or genuine laugh can make your episode feel authentic and trustworthy, especially in the close-knit Scottish business world where credibility matters.
Quick Wrap-Up and Pro Tips
Mastering this approach turns your podcast from "another interview" into something that builds real connections – with your guests and your audience. In Scotland's business community, where relationships drive opportunities, these human moments can lead to collaborations, shares, and lasting impact.
At Podcast Studio Glasgow, our setup (soundproof rooms, top mics, and expert guidance) helps capture these genuine reactions beautifully. Whether you're new to interviewing or refining your style, we're here to help you create episodes that feel real and resonate.
What about episode titles? Check out our comprehensive guide here.
Ready to record interviews that actually connect? Drop us a line or book a session today. We'd love to chat about how we can support your show.
