Should You Skip Pre-Interviews for Your Podcast? [Pros and Cons Explained]
To pre-interview or not to pre-interview? It’s a question that comes up a lot in podcast coaching calls, and this week was no exception. Someone asked if they should focus on pre-interviews to screen their guests, and here’s the honest truth: I don’t do them.
And here’s why:
(But, like everything in podcasting, there’s nuance.)
The Magic of First Connections
Some of the best podcast episodes happen when you connect with someone for the first time. That initial energy, the spontaneity, and the genuine reactions often create absolute gold. These are the moments when your audience feels like a fly on the wall for a real, unfiltered conversation.
But when you do a pre-interview, you might end up repeating that same conversation during the actual interview. It can feel a little less impactful the second time around—not robotic, but just not as fresh or engaging.
That’s not to say skipping pre-interviews always works perfectly.
When Pre-Interviews Might Help
I’ve been caught out before. One time, I interviewed someone connected through a trusted friend. We did the interview, hopped off the call, and I immediately thought, "That was not up to my standards.”
It wasn’t the guest—it was me. I showed up unprepared, and if I’d done a pre-interview, I might have realized the topic wasn’t quite right or I wasn’t ready to ask the right questions. Luckily, the guest reached out afterward and said they didn’t feel the vibe either. It was a mutual decision not to release the episode, but it taught me something important.
How to Qualify Guests Without a Pre-Interview
Instead of spending time on pre-interviews, I’ve streamlined the process to ensure guests are a great fit before we hit record. Here’s what I recommend:
Use a Guest Application Form:
Ask clear, targeted questions that help you gauge whether the guest aligns with your show’s values and audience.Ask for a Short Video:
Have potential guests submit a 60-second video introducing themselves and explaining what they bring to the conversation.Send Clear Prep Instructions:
Provide guests with detailed instructions on audio quality, attire, and other best practices to set them up for success.
The Warm-Up Trick That Changes Everything
Even without a pre-interview, you can make your guest feel comfortable and ready to shine. Here’s my secret:
Start Recording Right Away: If you’re using platforms like Zoom or Riverside, hit record as soon as your guest joins. This avoids the awkward “countdown freeze” when you officially start.
Do a Quick 5-Minute Warm-Up: Use this time to:
Test audio and equipment.
Check for small issues (like earrings that might hit the mic).
Outline the structure of the interview so your guest knows what to expect.
By the time you officially begin, your guest will feel relaxed and ready to go, and you’ll avoid any unnecessary do-overs.
What’s Your Take?
So, do you need to do pre-interviews? My answer is no—but it’s all about what works best for your workflow.
If you’ve found a way to streamline your process or have strong opinions about pre-interviews, I’d love to hear your thoughts. What’s worked for you? Drop your tips in the comments!
FAQs
Q: What if I don’t feel the guest is a good fit during the interview?
A: It’s rare if you screen guests well upfront. If it does happen, use it as a learning opportunity to refine your application process.
Q: How do I make sure my guest is ready?
A: Email prep instructions and do the 5-minute warm-up to ensure a smooth recording session.
Q: Is skipping pre-interviews worth it?
A: For me, yes. It saves time, maintains spontaneity, and avoids doubling up on work.
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