We don’t always have the luxury of being in the same place at the same time as our interviewees. Thanks to modern technology, this doesn’t need to be a restriction to who we can and can’t interview for our show. While it offers great flexibility, recording remote podcast interviews comes with its unique set of challenges. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve deep into the process of recording remote podcast interviews, providing you with step-by-step instructions and valuable tips to ensure your interviews are professional, engaging, and technically sound.

Chapter 1: Preparing for the Remote Podcast Interview

1.1 Selecting the Right Guest

Before you start planning the logistics of your remote podcast interview, it's essential to choose the right guest. Consider the following factors:

• Relevance: Ensure your guest's expertise or experiences align with your podcast's theme or topic.
• Availability: Confirm that the guest can commit to the interview at a mutually convenient time.
• Technical Setup: Assess if the guest has access to a reliable internet connection and good-quality microphone to record audio. If not, discuss potential solutions and manage expectations of how you want the interview to turn out.

1.2 Scheduling and Time Zones

Scheduling can be challenging when dealing with guests from different time zones. Here's how to navigate it smoothly:

• Coordinating Time Zones: Use online tools like World Time Buddy or TimeandDate.com to find suitable meeting times that work for both you and your guest.
• Confirming Availability: Send calendar invitations with clear date and time details, and ask your guest to confirm their availability.

1.3 Technical Setup

A proper technical setup is crucial for a successful remote podcast interview. Ensure you have the following:

• Microphone: Invest in a high-quality microphone that captures clear audio. USB microphones like the Blue Yeti or Audio-Technica AT2020 are popular choices.
• Headphones: Use headphones to prevent audio feedback and ensure you can hear your guest clearly.
• Recording Software: Choose reliable recording software such as Podcastle (which you can access for free through your Acast dashboard.) Podcastle has a streamlined tool that makes interviewing guests simple allowing you to record remotely to separate tracks. Other platforms you can try are Zoom, Skype, Zencastr, SquadCast, or riverside.fm.
• Internet Connection: A stable and high-speed internet connection is paramount for smooth communication.

Chapter 2: Setting Up Your Recording Environment

2.1 Choosing the Right Location

Selecting the appropriate recording environment is crucial for audio quality. Here are some tips:

• Quiet Space: Find a quiet room or space with minimal background noise. Inform those around you about the recording to avoid interruptions.
• Soundproofing: Use soft furnishings, curtains, or rugs to minimize echo and reduce background noise.
• Eliminate Distractions: Turn off notifications on your devices and put your phone on silent mode.

2.2 Lighting and Background

Consider how your recording space looks on camera, especially if you're recording video along with your podcast.

• Lighting: Ensure good lighting so your face is well-lit. Natural light from a window or soft LED lights work well.
• Background: Keep your background clean and uncluttered, or use a virtual background if your platform supports it.

2.3 Camera Placement and Framing

Proper camera placement and framing are essential for a visually appealing podcast:

• Eye Level: Position your camera at eye level to create a natural, engaging view.
• Framing: Frame yourself from the chest up to ensure your gestures and expressions are visible.

Chapter 3: Communication and Interview Preparation

3.1 Effective Communication with Your Guest

Clear communication with your guest is vital for a smooth remote podcast interview:

• Instructions: Share detailed instructions on the interview format, technical requirements, and any specific topics or questions you plan to cover. Make sure that they are setup with the proper remote recording software as well as a setup to record high-quality audio.
• Pre-Interview Briefing: Arrange a brief call with your guest to discuss the interview's flow, any expectations, and technical setup.

3.2 Preparing Your Podcast Script

While podcasts often have a conversational tone, it's essential to have a structure in mind:

• Outline: Create an outline or list of key points you want to cover during the interview.
• Questions: Prepare a list of questions to guide the conversation, but be ready to deviate if interesting topics arise naturally.
• Intro and Outro: Craft a compelling introduction and conclusion to set the tone and wrap up the episode.

3.3 Technical Check

Test your equipment and software shortly before the interview to avoid technical glitches:

• Microphone and Headphones: Verify that your microphone and headphones are working correctly.
• Recording Software: Familiarize yourself with the recording software's features, such as recording, muting, and screen sharing.
• Internet Connection: Ensure a stable internet connection for your video call, and close any bandwidth-intensive applications.

Chapter 4: Recording the Remote Podcast Interview

4.1 Starting the Recording

Now, it's time to hit the record button and initiate the interview:

• Double-Check Setup: Before beginning, ensure your microphone, headphones, and recording software are functioning correctly.
• Sound Checks: Conduct sound checks with your guest to confirm that both your voices are being recorded clearly.

4.2 Interview Etiquette

Maintaining a professional and respectful atmosphere is essential:

• Active Listening: Pay close attention to your guest and respond thoughtfully to their comments. Reference your outline if you reach an impasse in the conversation, but try and let your conversation flow naturally and build upon itself.
• Respectful Interjections: While you want your guest to speak freely, interject when necessary to guide the conversation or clarify points.

4.3 Staying Organized

Keep track of essential details during the interview:

• Timestamps: Note timestamps for noteworthy moments or topics discussed during the interview. This will make editing and post-production more manageable.
• Recording Backups: Consider recording a backup track, separate from your primary recording, as a precaution against unexpected technical issues. This can be done by setting up a separate audio recorder.

Chapter 5: Wrapping Up and Post-Interview Tasks

5.1 Conclusion

As the interview concludes, it's time to wrap things up:

• Thank Your Guest: Express gratitude for their time and insights. Also, if desired, give them space to add any additional insights which might have been outside of the scope of the interview.
• Promote Upcoming Episodes: If applicable, mention any upcoming episodes or projects your guest is involved in.

5.2 Post-Interview Review

After the interview, take some time to review your recording:

• Audio Quality: Listen to the recording to ensure audio quality and make any necessary adjustments in post-production.
• Transcription: Consider transcribing the interview to create written content or provide accessibility. This can also come in handy when making audiograms from video files or other content for social media.

5.3 Post-Production

Post-production is the final step in creating a polished podcast episode:

• Editing: Edit the recording to remove any mistakes, pauses, or background noise. If desired, remove any long pauses, ums, ahs, coughs, or anything else which might impede a quality recording.
• Add Intro and Outro: Incorporate your pre-prepared intro and outro.
• Enhance Audio: Adjust audio levels, add music, and apply filters to enhance sound quality of your audio files.
• Publishing: Upload your episode to your chosen podcast hosting platform (such as Acast) so that it can be heard on all platforms like Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or other streaming platforms. Then, add show notes, and create eye-catching cover art.

Conclusion

Recording remote podcast interviews can be a rewarding experience, connecting you with a diverse array of guests and audiences. By following the steps outlined in this comprehensive guide, you can confidently conduct remote interviews that are not only technically sound but also engaging, informative, and eof the highest quality for your listeners. With preparation, clear communication, and attention to detail, your remote podcast interviews will become a valuable asset to your podcasting journey.