Keith J. McNally

You can use technology to hide the flaws . . . but maybe you can step up your game as a host? Maybe? We learn by doing. And sometimes we learn really great lessons by evaluating ourselves. What went well? What did not go so well? What should/can you do differently? Wach the episode and analyze each sentence, question, response, non-verbal interaction (I get it, we are all looking into a webcam if the podcast is virtual, but when you watch the replay, you can see how the non-verbal responses from the host and the guest impacted the interview. The podcast is still a conversation between two people. And non-verbal communication is still taking place. Finally, validate the guest's responses. Listen intentionally. And have fun!

In addition to a Google search of your guests' background, social media content, and interests, a podcast host should invest in one of two things. 1. Make it a habit to have a pre/screen call with the potential guest. In this way, the host will get a vibe on how the guest interacts with the host. 2. Or, make a commitment to develop a relationship with one or more podcast agents. By developing a relationship with a podcast agent, that agent will work with you to ensure you are receiving guests that align with your podcast's format and audience's interest.

The hook is both in content and context, yes? Just like in storytelling, you need to have your audiences' attention. Nothing over the top; something that is of interest. Maybe even a quote to get the conversation going - then having you and the guest debate-discuss-analyze - the quote. I get excited with every conversation. I love what people bring to the discussion. Insights, experiences, stories, trial to transformation stories that bring everyone to the edge of their seats. Maybe not so dramatic, but the right people in the audience will connect with what is being said.

Practice Delivery - so true, yes? Actually, it took some time. It felt weird "practicing" in front of the web cam. But my first "Season" of The Question Guy Podcast was very much practice. Practice in delivery. Practice in clarifying content (and context). And practicing having conversations with people on camera. But all of that practice was rewarded. I now have different types of conversations depending on the context - in addition to people's personal stories (TQGP), I also have the opportunity to talk about people's professional expertise (Coach's Corner) and social issues that affect many of us (Envision Speakers Series). With each conversation, I had to practice the tone and impact of the conversation differently.

I'm a suicide attempt survivor. Because of this, I began the Envision Speakers Series with the topic: Men's Mental Health and Suicide Prevention. With the focus of both addressing problems and offering solutions to those social problems, I wanted the Envision Speaker Series to stand out from other podcasts. The authenticity comes from the host (me) and my guests. This is our opportunity to identify a critical issue and propose solutions. Within each episode, I am able to share a personal story or situation that relates directly to the topic. Additionally, I ask that my panel members/guests be prepared to offer personal/professional stories that relate directly to the topic as well. This format has worked well.

On the Envision Speakers Series, my panel members are asked to introduce themselves. Although the podcast is not scripted, it is planned. My guests know that I will not read off their bio (I stopped doing that after Episode 2). Instead, I ask those at the virtual table some simple questions: 1. Who are you? 2. What brings you to the conversation? 3. Where do you want to take the audience? Each podcast conversation is a journey. I want the guests to know this. And I want the audience to feel (and experience) that they are taking the journey along with the guests. This makes the conversation much more enjoyable, as well as valuable for everyone involved.