1. 🎯 Lead with Curiosity, Not a Script
Why it works:
People don’t want to feel interrogated—they want to feel understood. A rigid script can kill spontaneity. Instead, treat your questions like a launchpad, not a cage.
How to do it:
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Prepare 5 strong anchor questions—but stay flexible
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Ask follow-ups based on what they just said (even if it’s off-script)
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Use phrases like:
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“What was going through your mind when that happened?”
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“That’s powerful—can you unpack that more for us?”
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Avoid:
Reading questions like a robot.
Aim for:
Real-time curiosity, like you’re hearing their story for the first time.
2. 🔥 Start With a Personal Hit, Not the Résumé
Why it works:
Guests are used to being asked about their job titles or bio. But asking about something personal—right off the bat—creates authentic connection and lowers their guard.
How to do it:
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Ask about a childhood dream, a turning point, or what fuels them today
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Reference a specific quote, tweet, or interview you actually researched
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Example:
“You once said your lowest moment taught you your greatest lesson—can we start there?”
Avoid:
“So tell me about yourself…”
Aim for:
“So when you were 16 and first picked up a mic, what did that feel like?”
3. 🧠Listen Like a Fan, React Like a Friend
Why it works:
Your energy fuels their story. If you’re passive or distracted, they’ll shut down. If you’re engaged and responsive, they’ll open up.
How to do it:
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Let them finish—then respond with your own genuine take
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Laugh when it’s funny. Pause when it’s deep. Say “wow” when it hits.
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Use mirroring phrases like:
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“So what I hear is…”
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“That moment must’ve been tough, huh?”
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Avoid:
Jumping to the next question without acknowledging their answer.
Aim for:
Conversational ping-pong—not tennis against a wall.
💡 BONUS: Give Them a Reason to Shine
Send your guest 1–2 “big idea” themes before the interview:
“This episode is about how your story reflects the power of second chances.”
That helps them bring depth—not just autopilot responses.
Bottom line:
Great interviews aren’t just about asking the right questions—they’re about building the right space.
Make your guest feel safe, seen, and celebrated—and you’ll always get gold.
Want a downloadable checklist for guest prep + pre-interview tips? I can put that together too.
