[FAQ]

Hey everyone,
I’ve just started recording podcast episodes and I’m experimenting with both solo and interview formats. The challenge is making them engaging enough to keep listeners tuned in—especially when I’m flying solo without a guest to bounce off.

Are there specific structures or frameworks that work best for each format?
Would love some guidance on how to open, pace, and wrap both types of episodes in a way that keeps people listening all the way through.

[Jeff Bullas]

This is a great question—because the structure of your episode does affect how long people stick around. And the key is knowing that solo and interview episodes require slightly different energy and planning.

Here’s how I break it down:

Solo Episodes: You’re the Expert + Entertainer

A solo episode needs more rhythm and momentum to keep things moving. Without another voice in the room, you need to guide the listener with clear direction and energy.

Try this structure:

Hook (0:00–0:30)
Open strong. Use a bold statement, quick story, or question that pulls people in.
“If you’re struggling to grow your email list, I’ve got three strategies that actually work—and one that’s a total waste of time.”

Intro (0:30–1:00)
Briefly explain what the episode will cover and why it matters. This sets the promise.
Keep it tight—people want momentum.

Core Content (1:00–12:00+)
Use 3–5 key points, each framed as a solution, tip, or story.
Speak like you’re having a one-on-one conversation.
Use short sentences, rhetorical questions, and clear transitions to keep attention.

Recap + Takeaway (Final 1–2 mins)
Summarize the value. End with a clear action step or insight they can apply today.
“If there’s one thing I want you to try this week, it’s…”

Interview Episodes: You’re the Conductor
With interviews, your job is to make the guest shine while also steering the conversation toward value for the listener. The most engaging interviews feel like guided conversations, not rigid Q&As.

Use this flow:

Teaser + Guest Intro (0:00–1:30)
Highlight one great takeaway early—before introducing your guest.
Then introduce them with energy and credibility. Set up why this conversation matters.

Start Personal, Not Professional (1:30–5:00)
Open with a story or human moment—not “tell us what you do.”
This builds connection fast and sets a relaxed tone.

Core Conversation (5:00–25:00+)
Anchor the episode around a core theme or takeaway.
Ask open-ended questions. Avoid info-dumping. Keep circling back to stories, lessons, and real-world examples.
Audience Relevance Check
Ask questions like, “How would someone just starting out apply this?” or “What mistakes do you see people make here?”
This keeps the listener in the loop.

Wrap + Call-to-Action
End with a powerful takeaway from the guest. Then point listeners to the next step—subscribe, follow, check the guest’s offer, etc.

No matter the format, the goal is the same: hold attention through clarity, connection, and momentum. Map your episode before you record, stay focused during, and edit with the listener’s experience in mind.

Want a solo vs. interview planning template? I’ve got a few I can share that streamline the whole prep process.

– Jeff

[Author]

Posts