Podcast guest brief template
A prepared guest gives sharper answers and creates far less editing. Send this short brief a couple of days before recording so everyone arrives ready.
0/3 filled - the rest of the [prompts] you finish in your copy.
GUEST BRIEF - [Show name] Hi [Guest first name], here's everything you need for our recording. THE SHOW [Show name] is a podcast for [target audience]. Each episode is a relaxed conversation - no script, no gotchas. THE LOGISTICS Date & time: [date / time / timezone] Length: [30-40] minutes Where: [recording link] Format: [video + audio / audio only] TECH CHECK (2 minutes, makes a big difference) - Use headphones (stops echo) - A quiet room and a decent mic if you have one - Stable internet; close other apps - Good light facing you if we're filming WHAT WE'LL COVER We'll explore [theme]. A few things I'll likely ask: 1. [Question 1] 2. [Question 2] 3. [Question 3] No need to script answers - we want the real conversation. AFTER RECORDING We'll edit and send you the episode plus clips you're welcome to share. We'll tag you when it goes live. Anything you'd love to talk about (or avoid)? Just reply and let me know. [Your name]
pick a version, copy it, or download as .docx or .pdf — then make it yours.
How to fill it in
Send it 2 days ahead
Far enough that the guest can prepare, close enough that they don't forget. Two days before recording is the sweet spot.
Push the tech check
Headphones and a quiet room are the single biggest quality win - they prevent the echo and noise that create hours of editing or force a re-record.
Share the themes, not a script
Give the topics and a few likely questions so the guest can think, but make clear you want a real conversation, not rehearsed answers.
Common mistakes
- Sending no brief, then spending the first ten minutes of the recording explaining the show.
- Skipping the tech check and ending up with unusable audio.
- Over-scripting, so the conversation feels stiff.
Want guest prep done for you?
Fame briefs and preps every guest for clients' shows, so recordings run smoothly and need minimal editing.
Frequently asked questions
What should a podcast guest brief include?
The show's premise and audience, the logistics (date, length, recording link), a short tech check, the themes and a few likely questions, and what happens after recording (editing, clips, promotion).
When should I send the guest brief?
About two days before recording - far enough ahead that the guest can prepare and sort their setup, close enough that it stays top of mind.