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Interview45-60 min• Beginner
Interview Guest Episode
A structured template for conducting engaging guest interviews with research-backed questions.
Generate This Outline with AIEpisode Structure
1
Pre-Interview Research
Research your guest before recording to ask informed questions.
- •Review their recent work, social media, and previous interviews
- •Find unique angles others haven't covered
- •Prepare 2-3 "surprise" questions based on deep research
2
Intro & Hook
Introduce the episode and hook listeners with what they'll learn.
- •Start with a compelling question or teaser
- •Briefly introduce your guest's credentials
- •Set expectations for what listeners will gain
3
Guest Background
Let your guest share their story and build rapport.
- •Ask about their journey, not just their resume
- •Find the "origin story" behind their expertise
- •This helps listeners connect emotionally
4
Main Discussion (3-4 topics)
Deep dive into 3-4 key topics with follow-up questions.
- •Prepare 3-4 main questions with 2-3 follow-ups each
- •Let conversation flow naturally between topics
- •Ask "why" and "how" more than "what"
5
Rapid Fire / Lightning Round
Quick, fun questions to reveal personality.
- •Keep it light and energetic
- •Ask unexpected questions
- •This segment often becomes most shareable
6
Actionable Takeaways
Summarize key points and give listeners next steps.
- •Ask: "What's one thing listeners can do today?"
- •Recap the top 2-3 insights from the conversation
- •Make takeaways specific and actionable
7
Outro & CTA
Where to find the guest and what's next.
- •Let guest share where to find them
- •Mention your next episode or series
- •Ask listeners to subscribe/review
Best Practices
- Send questions to your guest beforehand (but leave room for spontaneity)
- Record guest intro separately for cleaner editing
- Always do a 5-minute pre-call to build rapport
- Have backup questions ready in case conversation stalls
- Listen actively—best follow-ups come from listening, not your list
Successful Examples
The Tim Ferriss ShowHow I Built ThisArmchair ExpertSmartLess
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