Let’s be honest: for many authors, podcast interviews can feel terrifying.
What if you freeze?
What if you ramble?
What if you forget the one thing you really wanted to say about your book?
In today’s nonstop media landscape, authors are expected to not only write brilliant books, but also talk about them—clearly, confidently, and on demand. Podcasts are one of the most powerful tools for building visibility and connection with readers… but they can also trigger serious nerves, imposter syndrome, and “why did I agree to this?” energy.
That’s where preparation (and the right support) comes in.
At InkFox Publicity (a LAVIDGE Co.), we help authors turn podcast interviews from stressful obligations into confidence-boosting conversations, to spread the word about their books. With the right prep, a clear message, and a little insider know-how, you can walk into any interview sounding polished, professional, and—most importantly—authentically you.
Start Strong: Set Yourself Up for Success
If you’re working with a publicist, chances are they’ve already handled the heavy lifting—securing the interview, coordinating schedules, and sharing key details like date, time, and host information.
If you’re booking interviews on your own, make sure you have a direct contact method for the host or producer and know the platform being used.
Your Secret Weapon: A Clear Media Message
Before any podcast appearance, you should have one clear main message, up to three supporting points, and a version that can be delivered in about 30 seconds.
Your key message points may change, according to what specific topic is being covered, in regard to your book (like focusing on a strong female character when talking to outlets focused on Women’s Interest). However, your main message point will never change.
Prepare your media message in advance, to avoid any surprises. It is unlikely that any outlet will provide questions before the interview, but they MAY ask your publicist to share some sample questions when they set it up. It’s a great idea to have some ready, on the chance that an interviewer will ask for some. This is a great way to help guide the interview and hit all your main points. It also demonstrates professionalism and makes you more appealing to the journalist or interviewer.
Expect the Unexpected (and Don’t Panic)
Since we can’t set restrictions on discussion topics or questions you want to avoid, it’s a good idea to practice handling difficult questions, if you anticipate them. Think of positive ways to answer and then redirect to your main message. You always want to come back to your main media message.
Give Yourself Time (and Fewer Distractions)
Set aside an appropriate amount of time for the interview. Don’t schedule meetings or appointments back-to-back with your podcast interview. Having a strict time limit on the interview can be problematic if issues arise. The interviewer could run long with a previous guest. You or the interviewer may experience technical difficulties. Lots can happen! Give yourself plenty of time for any challenges and so that you don’t feel stressed or rushed during the interview.
If you are being interviewed remotely, make sure you set yourself up in a comfortable spot without distractions. You don’t want extra noise distracting listeners from your point, and you don’t want to be thrown off topic by someone bursting into the room or a rambunctious pet. A quiet room in your home or office is best. Coffee shops or other busy workspaces can be chaotic and unreliable.
On Camera? Set the Scene
If you’re going to be on camera, set the scene. Find a room with optimal lighting – next to a window is best. You will want to minimize other things in the camera view to ensure you are the focal point. Make sure and tidy up! You don’t want your basket of laundry in the background, or an open closet of junk spilling out. Make sure your background looks neat and professional.
Some tools, like Zoom, also allow you to use a fake background. If you opt for that, choose a professional look. Don’t have yourself floating through space or at the beach (unless your book is about either of those!)
Don’t Just Sit There
Many podcasts will record phone interviews with guests to be aired later. Stand up and walk around the room, while you talk! Don’t get yourself winded or out of breath, but staying on your feet helps you to remain alert and engaged in the conversation.
Have your notes in front of you so that you don’t forget key talking points and messages you want to share. Be sure and mention where to find your book and how they can get in touch with you!
Keep water nearby to take quiet sips from, when you need it.
Test Your Tech (Then Test It Again)
As soon as you agree to a virtual interview or event with a podcast, test your technology. Check your internet connectivity. Make sure your camera and microphone are working. You may want to purchase a mini web cam with a built-in microphone if the one on your computer is grainy or your mic doesn’t always work properly.
On the day of the interview – test it again.
Respond quickly
Most outlets will not send you the completed interview to listen to before it airs – they don’t have the time with strict publication deadlines – but, if they offer it, or send follow-up questions, make sure you review and return your thoughts quickly.
After the Interview: Let It Go
Don’t overanalyze. Don’t obsess over what you did or didn’t say. You prepared! If you felt like the interview was over quickly, don’t assume that means it didn’t go well. It’s typically the opposite! It means the journalist or interviewer didn’t have to keep trying to pull the important information out of you and you did a great job answering their questions thoroughly.
Let your publicist or book agent know how it went, and write a brief email or hand-written note to thank the interviewer. Be sure and follow-up with any materials or images you discussed during the interview.
Finally, make sure and set up your Google Alerts to let you know when the podcast airs, or you and your book are mentioned online!
At InkFox Publicity, we specialize in helping authors feel confident, prepared, and media-ready—so when the mic turns on, you’re ready to shine