The Piano Pod - a global hub for innovation, education, and connection in classical piano music
14 Feb 2025 · 3 min
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This content was created by The Piano Pod with Yukimi Song. This content was uploaded by The Piano Pod with Yukimi Song. This is a podcast episode titled "How I Conduct Meaningful Engaging Interviews" (published 2025-02-14). The excerpt contains produced ad reads (a Ryan Seacrest spot promoting Chumba Casino and a promo for RSS.com with legal disclaimers) and a longer host monologue describing six practical tips for conducting high-quality interviews: prep and research, engagement/active listening, unique questioning, balancing the host's presence, storytelling flow, and handling challenges. The host invites listener feedback. Participants in the excerpt include an ad voice identifying as Ryan Seacrest, other commercial/promotional voices, and the podcast host who delivers the interview guidance.
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You're listening to a podcast right now. Driving, working out, walking the dog. If you're into podcasts, chances are you have something to say too. With RSS.com, starting your own podcast is free and easy. Upload an episode and we distribute it to Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, and more. Track your listeners, see where they're from, and start earning from ads just like this. If you've been thinking about starting a podcast, this is your sign. Start your new podcast for free today at RSS.com.
Have you ever wondered what makes a great interview? I've had the privilege of interviewing some of the most incredible classical musicians, educators, and thought leaders of the industry, and today I want to share what I have learned about conducting meaningful and engaging conversations. It's not just about asking good questions; it's about creating an environment where your guest feels valued and heard. So let me break it down for you. Number 1: Prep and research. The key to a great interview starts before you even hit the record button. I don't just Google my guest. I have them fill out a guest form with carefully curated questions to shape the episode. I read their bio, check out their social media, and look for what truly drives them. I also avoid listening to too many past interviews by guests because I don't want to cloud my judgment. Number 2: Engagement and active listening. A great interview isn't just about asking questions; it's about listening with intention. I make sure my guest feels heard and valued by being genuinely curious and listening without judgment. I structure the interview, but I also let the conversation flow naturally. Number 3: Unique questioning style. How do I get my guest to share insights they haven't shared with anyone else. I avoid clichés and surface-level questions. I read between the lines and ask about their passion, purpose, and beliefs. I stay away from things you can Google. I dig deeper. Number 4: Balancing my personal presence. I guide the conversation, but I don't dominate it. I keep my speaking to about 5-10% of the entire interview. I react naturally, share my thoughts when relevant, but I always let my guests shine. Number 5: Flow in storytelling. The best interviews feel like a conversation, not an interrogation. I transition smoothly by connecting my next question to what my guests just said. If they share something profound, I don't rush past it. I stay there and dig deeper. Number 6: Handling challenges. Not every interview goes smoothly. If a guest seems disengaged, I pivot and ask a more compelling question. If a topic gets controversial, I listen, empathize, and stay neutral. It's about their story, not my opinion. So, what makes a great interviewer? It's not just about asking the right questions; it's about making your guests feel heard, creating space for meaningful dialogue, and being flexible in the moment. I'd love to hear your thoughts. What do you think makes a great interview? Let's talk in the comments. If you found this helpful, share it with someone who hosts interviews or podcasts.
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You're listening to a podcast right now. Driving, working out, walking the dog. If you're into podcasts, chances are you have something to say too. With RSS.com, starting your own podcast is free and easy. Upload an episode and we distribute it to Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, and more. Track your listeners, see where they're from, and start earning from ads just like this. If you've been thinking about starting a podcast, this is your sign. Start your new podcast for free today at RSS.com.
