Grab your 'Checklist for Hosting an Interview Podcast' HERE.

If you’re about to step into the role of interviewer, you’re probably feeling a mix of excitement and nerves.

Maybe you’re wondering: What if I mess up? What if my guest talks too much? What if I don’t know what to say next? How do I make sure it’s an engaging conversation and not just an awkward Q&A?

But even if you’ve been hosting for a while (whether a few episodes or a few years) if you’re anything like me, you’re always looking to learn and improve.

Since 2016, I’ve led hundreds of conversations as the host of my flagship production #impact - A Podcast about stuff that matters, speaking with a wide range of guests, from first-time founders who had never been on a podcast to well-funded social enterprises, from impact investors to award-winning journalists with decades more experience than me.

Every interview is an opportunity, not just to ask questions, but to build relationships, share compelling stories, and provide real value to your audience.

I’m still learning something new in EVERY. SINGLE. RECORDING. Even after all these years.

The good news? Hosting a great interview isn’t about perfection. It’s about connection, curiosity, and preparation.

In this episode of Podcasting with Impact, I’m giving you my best tips on how to prepare for your next podcast recording (even if it’s your very first), how to show up with confidence, and how to truly leverage your role as a host to create an engaging, meaningful conversation with long-term impact.

Whether you're interviewing one guest, juggling multiple panellists, or even hosting a live recording, I’ll walk you through exactly what to do.

By the end of this episode, you’ll have everything you need to turn your next interview into a meaningful and empowering experience.

🎉 For all the new podcasters in the house: Hosting your first interview is a milestone - Celebrate it! With practice, it gets easier and more natural. You got this.

Yours,Regina

PS: I’d love to hear how it went with your Podcast recording! Find me on LinkedIn and Instagram, tag me there or send me a DM. And if you know a podcaster who could use these tips, share this episode with them!

More Free Resources for Your Podcasting Journey at:

http://reginalarko.com/free/

Checklist: Tips for Hosting Your First Podcast Interview

• ⁠Free Ebook! How to start Podcasting with impact.⁠

• Schedule ⁠your complimentary Podcast Boss call HERE.  ⁠

  
  

Listening to this episode will help you to show up for the podcast in the most impactful way with the simplest, most unexpected and efficient strategy to market your podcast so you can grow that audience of yours. 

But before we dive in, let’s get just get one important thing on the record: This isn’t just about growth for the sake of growth. Ask yourself why you want to grow. Because even with a small, niche audience, you can get incredible results, if you’re speaking directly to your perfect target group.And I am speaking from experience here. My podcasts aren’t hitting millions of downloads, yet they are impactful and help me grow my own coaching business.  

It’s about impact, not just numbers. 

You don’t need everyone to listen to you, you need the right people. A small, engaged audience that actually cares about your content is way more powerful than thousands of passive listeners. So as you are eager to grow your audience, focus on deep connections, not just reach.

Because, you see, the best marketing isn’t complicated. It’s showing up, being human, and making it ridiculously easy for people to fall in love with you and your podcast.

And in this episode I will show you how to make that happen. 

And it all starts here: How are you currently showing up with your podcast? 

To market our podcast better and grow our audience we need to evaluate where we are right now. 

Ask yourself: 

1.) How satisfied are you currently with your podcast? Are you excited and proud of  your episodes? YES? Great! This will show in the way you speak and share about your podcast. No? Look closer what you want to improve. It you yourself are not excited about your podcast, why should others be listening? Every new episode you produce is an opportunity for you to learn and improve, so that you are excited to share about your podcast. 

2.) How are you sharing about your podcast? Let’s say you are sharing about your podcast on your socials: Are you actually adding the link so people can start listening and following your show right away? It doesn't help if you only add the Spotify and Apple link. Use a site like pod.link or episodes.fm to share a universal link that gives people many different options where to find your podcast. 

Last but not least, if you want to grow your audience, you need to talk about your podcast - a lot. Not just with your new contacts but also with your existing community members.

Many people that follow you might not even know that you have a podcast. Pop in peoples DMs and share an episode that you think is relevant for them. Ask people you connect with about topics they struggle with and create an episode on that particular topic. 

This approach is personal, it aims at connecting on a deep level and turning your listeners into your biggest fans. 

Because in the end, and I know I repeat myself now but it is crucial to remind ourselves of this often: it isn’t about everyone listening to our podcast. It is about the right people listening to our podcast.

Mentioned in this episode:

• Universal links to share your podcast. Look for your podcast on sites like: www.pod.link or www.episodes.fm 

• How to Start Your Podcast Strong 💪 (Foundational Episode for your to explore as you are getting ready to start your Podcast) 

  
  

Free resources for your Podcasting journey:

• • Free Ebook! How to start Podcasting with impact.
  • Schedule your complimentary Podcast Boss call HERE.  
  • Podcast Website: https://reginalarko.com/podcast/
  • Connect with Regina on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/regina-larko/
  • Email Regina with feedback, questions or just say hi at: [email protected]
    

Free Ebook! How to start Podcasting with impact. 

Schedule your complimentary Podcast Boss Call with Regina HERE. 

Today, I want to share a quick mini-tip with you. As you embark on your podcasting journey, you'll encounter new tools you've never worked with. I completely understand how daunting this can be, as it's easy to procrastinate or get distracted rather than face the task at hand.

When you're about to edit your first podcast, for example, it can be overwhelming. Like you, I've recently started learning a new editing tool called Descript. Many of my clients are using it, and I want to be on top of my game to support them. Learning new tools is essential, especially as the podcasting world continues to evolve. For many years, I've happily used GarageBand and Audacity for audio editing, but new tools like Descript present exciting opportunities.

However, carving out time to learn these tools can be a challenge. I often have tutorial videos bookmarked, with every intention of watching them, only to say, "Not today." But I want to share a lovely tip that has helped me push through procrastination: tying a task to a reward.

The Art of Reward-Based Motivation

I'm not suggesting you must do this, but it might be helpful. Try connecting the thing you need to do—like learning a new tool or watching a tutorial—to a reward. Perhaps a sweet treat might work for you. Personally, I motivate myself by allowing a small indulgence while tackling a task.

Here's what works well for me: I'll take a few bites of a delightful Krapfen—a sweet bun with marmalade and sugar—while watching a tutorial. Alongside, I enjoy a lovely cup of coffee. It's a small act of kindness to myself. Remember, moderation is key. Indulging every now and then is perfectly okay. We all need a little slack now and again.

Creating Your Unique Reward System

Your treat doesn't have to be a sugary snack. Consider treating yourself to a special cup of coffee or tea you don’t brew daily, or perhaps opting for a healthier choice, like a smoothie or an exotic fruit. The idea is to make it something special that you don't indulge in every day.

For instance, during Fasching in Austria, Krapfens are everywhere, tempting me daily. But today, they're a special treat, helping me push through and complete my tutorial. Once I've finished it, I'll pick up my kids from school, knowing I've accomplished something.

Encouraging Progress Through Rewards

So, what will your reward be today? What's that little treat you can look forward to once you've completed your task, whether it's a podcast tutorial, writing a delayed script, or scheduling that first interview?

Feel free to share your progress with me on social media. Tag me, Regina underline Larko, on Instagram or Regina Larko on LinkedIn. I'd love to see how you're growing your podcast, tackling new tools, or any project you’re working on. Let's cheer each other on and build our beautiful podcasts together.

Let's cut ourselves some slack and celebrate each step forward. What's your treat for today?

Free resources for your Podcasting journey:

• Free Ebook! How to start Podcasting with impact.
• Schedule your complimentary Podcast Consultation Call with Regina HERE. 
• Podcast Website: https://reginalarko.com/podcast/
• Connect with Regina on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/regina-larko/
• Email Regina with feedback, questions or just say hi at: [email protected]

Schedule your complimentary ⁠Podcast Boss Call with Regina HERE⁠. 

𝗧𝗵𝗲𝗿𝗲 𝗰𝗼𝘂𝗹𝗱𝗻’𝘁 𝗯𝗲 𝗮 𝗯𝗲𝘁𝘁𝗲𝗿 𝗺𝗼𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝘁𝗼 𝘁𝗮𝗹𝗸 𝗮𝗯𝗼𝘂𝘁 𝗳𝗮𝗶𝗹𝘂𝗿𝗲 𝘁𝗵𝗮𝗻 𝗶𝗻 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗺𝗼𝗻𝘁𝗵 𝗜 𝗰𝗲𝗹𝗲𝗯𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗲 𝟴 𝘆𝗲𝗮𝗿𝘀 𝗼𝗳 𝗽𝗼𝗱𝗰𝗮𝘀𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 (My flagship production #impact Podcast turns 8 this February!) And there couldn’t be a better guest for this conversation than Failure Enthusiast Dejan Stojanovic, who has spent the past 10+ years putting failure on stages at Fuck Up Nights all over Austria.

We dive into 𝗰𝘂𝗹𝘁𝘂𝗿𝗮𝗹 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝘀𝗼𝗰𝗶𝗲𝘁𝗮𝗹 𝗻𝗮𝗿𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗶𝘃𝗲𝘀 𝗮𝗿𝗼𝘂𝗻𝗱 𝗳𝗮𝗶𝗹𝘂𝗿𝗲 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝘀𝘂𝗰𝗰𝗲𝘀𝘀. We explore the discomfort of failing (and how to overcome it!) We talk about entrepreneurship and podcasting and we discuss how we can support each other better in our endeavours.

𝗪𝗲 𝗮𝗹𝘀𝗼 𝗮𝗻𝘀𝘄𝗲𝗿 𝗾𝘂𝗲𝘀𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀 𝗳𝗿𝗼𝗺 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗺𝘂𝗻𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝗼𝗻:

• Relabeling failure
• The importance of talking about our f* ups**
• Shortcuts to success (spoiler: there aren’t any but Dejan got something better for you)
• The fear of failing (and how to rethink that) 

Plus, we share how we first met (shoutout to the Ö3 Podcast Festival and Danuta Lang for putting Dejan on stage to inspire us all to fail better).

If you’ve been thinking about starting a podcast but worrying about messing it up, this one will clear things up.

Connect with Dejan Stojanovic

https://fuckupnights.at

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thisisdejan/

Free resources for your Podcasting journey:

• Free Ebook! How to start Podcasting with impact.

• Schedule your complimentaryPodcast Consultation Call with Regina HERE. 

• Podcast Website: https://reginalarko.com/podcast/

• Connect with Regina on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/regina-larko/

• Email Regina with feedback, questions or just say hi at: [email protected]
  

The other day, I listened to this really wonderful podcast the other day called “ A Slight Change of Plans” where host cognitive scientist Maya Shankar talked with her guest Adam Grant about “Unlocking your potential”  What particularly stood out with me was how they talked about failing taking neuroscience into consideration. 

„from a neuroscientific perspective  the best way to boost brain plasticity is to fail at things", says Maya in the episode. 

Today I want to explore how this applies to us podcasters and how this neuroscientific approach to looking at failing can also help us to uncover our full potential as podcasters. 

Failing is something that every podcaster experiences, yet very few of us like to talk about. Whether it’s forgetting to hit record on a perfect interview or realizing your format just isn’t clicking with your audience, these moments of "oops" and "oh no" are actually gifts in disguise.

By the end of this episode, I’ll show you why failing is one of the most valuable things you can do for your podcast, including your first 3 steps to start embracing failure to reach your podcasting goals.

Mentioned in this episode:

Free resources for your Podcasting journey:

Schedule your complimentary Podcast Boss Call with Regina HERE.

⁠Free Ebook! How to start Podcasting with impact.⁠

Quick disclaimer about this episode: If you're happy and comfortable with your audio-only podcast (like I am!!) feel free to skip this episode and check out another one, like “‘Feeling legitimate as podcaster’” is a really great and foundational one to set yourself up for success with your podcast. 

If you’re still here, let’s dive into the big question: Should you add video to your podcast?

This topic has been buzzing a lot lately. Many of you have reached out, wondering if adding video is the right move, whether you're just starting or looking to grow your podcast. Some of you are eager to jump in, while others feel overwhelmed. Wherever you are, remember: Any decision you make about your podcast should align with YOU and your goals.

In this episode, I’ll guide you through 3 steps to help you make an informed decision.

Platforms like YouTube and Spotify are promoting video, suggesting it opens new doors to connect with audiences and grow your show. Video clips can boost visibility, which audio alone might not.

Personally, I’ve used video for years to promote my audio-only podcast. It’s great for marketing, but there’s now a shift toward full video podcasting, especially after Spotify’s recent push for video formats.

But here’s the (important!) thing: Creating a video podcast doesn’t guarantee success. Just like audio, video only works if it delivers value to your audience. Video is not magic, it’s a huge commitment. High-quality video production means considering lighting, setting, and even whether you look as tired as you feel (hello, co-sleeping parents like me!).

Adding video takes time, effort, and possibly financial investment. So ask yourself:

Do I have the bandwidth and budget for this?

Will adding video overwhelm me or stop me from starting my podcast?

If video feels like too much, skip it. You’re already doing something amazing by sharing your voice. Focus on audio-first, and if you’re curious about video, start small, like recording an intro clip or creating audiograms.

Consider your audience:

How do they consume your podcast?

Are they asking for video?

Would it truly enhance their experience?

Some listeners don’t want video. They love audio’s flexibility, whether they’re commuting, folding laundry, or multitasking. I’m an audio-only girl myself. I never sit down to watch a podcast.

That said, if you love video and your audience does too, go for it! Think of video as a bonus, not a requirement.

Forget what the experts or algorithms say, focus on YOU. Ask yourself:

Do I want to show up on video?

Am I comfortable being filmed?

Are my guests okay with it?

If you’re excited about video, fantastic! I am here to support you. If you prefer the intimacy of audio-only, that’s fantastic too. I am here to support you. 

To dive even deeper into setting yourself up for success with your podcast you can now book a free Podcast Boss session with me and we work through it together.

Mentioned in this episode:

Free resources for your Podcasting journey:

Register for my 6 weeks Podcasting for Beginners course at Johns Hopkins University/ Odyssey here: https://events.jhu.edu/form/odysseyreginalarkospring25

Many thanks to you for your academic generosity and personal kindness. It was one of the most useful classes I’d ever taken." (Susie)

This just lights me up. I had sooo much fun teaching this 'Podcasting for Beginners' class. The students in the virtual classroom were so supportive of each other and it was so wonderful to guide them on taking the first steps with confidence.

I am kicking off the next cohort for my Podcasting for Beginners class at JHU/Odyssey in just a few weeks. Registration is closing soon.Feel free to share with that one friend who has been talking about starting a Podcast for ages. ​

Register for the 'Podcasting for Beginners' course HERE: https://events.jhu.edu/form/odysseyreginalarkospring25

Seats are limited. First come, first served.

While you are there, make sure to also check out these brillant courses.

𝗙𝘂𝗹𝗹 𝘀𝗽𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗰𝗼𝘂𝗿𝘀𝗲𝘀 𝘀𝘆𝗹𝗹𝗮𝗯𝘂𝘀 𝗵𝗲𝗿𝗲. https://events.jhu.edu/?e=odyssey&

Schedule your complimentary Podcast Boss Call with Regina HERE. 

⁠Free Ebook! How to start Podcasting with impact.⁠

This episode is inspired by our latest community call, where we journaled, reflected, and shared what we want to achieve with our podcasts this year. It was so lovely connecting with all of you, my wonderful global community of podcasters. And as we downloaded together what came up for us, there was one topic in particular that I wanted to continue to reflect on, as I know this will be so helpful to everyone who was in the room as well as for you: People-Pleasing.

Why and how does people-pleasing hold us back in podcasting? 

People-pleasing feels safe. It’s rooted in our desire to make everyone around us happy, to avoid conflict, and to fit in. And when it comes to podcasting, it can show up in very sneaky ways:

• Avoiding topics that feel too bold or controversial

• Overthinking how others will respond to your opinions

• Trying to craft content that’s for everyone instead of your specific audience

But when we try to please everyone, we please no one—including ourselves. People tune in to podcasts because they want authenticity.

They want to feel like they’re connecting with a real person who has something unique to say.

If we’re constantly editing ourselves to avoid stepping on toes, we’re doing a disservice to our listeners and our goals. We produce a show that stands for nothing because it wants to stand for everything.

We produce a show thats safe but not special. We produce a podcast that’s not uniquely ours. And we will feel that too. We won’t feel proud of it, we feel we are not being true to what we really want to stand for. And therefore we wont talk about our show in a way that people will pay attention to. 

Fact is, what you are trying to achieve ‘the pleasing everyone’ is an impossible goal. Not everyone is going to agree with you. And that’s okay. In fact, it’s more than okay—it’s necessary for growth, understanding, and meaningful conversation.

So one of the most important mindset shifts we can make as podcasters is this: It’s not about the likes, the comments, or the external validation. It’s about inspiring conversations. It’s about showing up in alignment with your values and speaking your truth.

When we prioritize likes or worry about negative feedback, we’re letting fear take the wheel.

But when we focus on sharing our authentic voice, we attract the right people—those who resonate with our message. Sure, some people might disagree with you, but that’s a sign you’re saying something worth paying attention to.

Your podcast isn’t for everyone. It should never be for everyone. It’s for your people—the ones who need to hear your unique perspective. When you stay true to that, you’re building a a podcast and a community that matters.

In this episode I will give you 6 tips for breaking free from people-pleasing without pushing or shaming yourself.

We will get really practical and actionable so feel free to grab a pen and paper to journal along or bookmark this episode so you can revisit, whenever you feel you need that reminder on how to shake off the people pleasing bug. 

Enjoy the episode and as always please feel free to reach out with questions, comments or suggestions so I can make my sharing as valuable as possible for you here.

Free resources for your Podcasting journey:

• Free Ebook! How to start Podcasting with impact.

• Schedule your complimentary Podcast Consultation Call with Regina HERE. 

• Podcast Website: https://reginalarko.com/podcast/

• Connect with Regina on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/regina-larko/
  Email Regina with feedback, questions or just say hi at: [email protected]

Schedule your complimentary Podcast Boss Call with Regina HERE. 

Did you know that babies recognise their mother’s voice in utero? Science shows that around the third trimester, a baby can hear and distinguish voices, responding more to familiar voices. That connection is rooted in trust, comfort, and recognition, forming one of the first bonds we ever experience as humans.

Now, imagine tapping into that same primal connection through your podcast.

Your voice isn’t just a tool, it’s an extension of who you are - your personality, your expertise, and your unique perspective. It’s your secret weapon for building an authentic personal brand and fostering meaningful relationships with your audience.

In this episode, I’m thrilled to share an encore presentation of my amazing client Nina’s LinkedIn Live, which also features on her podcast, Business Bites. 

This episode is a celebration in every way: we talk about launching Nina’s podcast, finding her unique voice, and how she’s already using it to build a stronger connection with her audience. Oh, and yes, we celebrate with cake! 🎂

If you’re wondering how your voice can shape your brand, this is the episode for you. 

We talk about: 

🎙️ What is the science behind how voice builds trust?🎙️ How can starting a podcast become the cornerstone of your personal branding strategy?🎙️ Why is podcasting such a powerful medium for deep, authentic connections?

Starting or launching a podcast isn’t just about hitting "record." It’s about tap into the power of your authentic voice to create content that resonates, inspires, and connects.

So if you’ve been toying with the idea of starting a podcast but aren’t sure where to begin - or how your voice can truly impact your audience - this episode will light the way.

Special thanks to Nina Justin for allowing us to re-air her LinkedIn Live/podcast episode here. 

Free resources for your Podcasting journey:

Schedule your complimentary ⁠⁠Podcast Boss Call with Regina HERE⁠⁠. 

Today, we’re diving into something super practical and essential: how to set yourself up for success before hitting record on your very first podcast episode.

Whether you’re flying solo or hosting a remote interview using tools like Zencastr, Riverside, Squadcast, or good old Zoom, there are a few simple steps that can make a world of difference.

Let’s break it down step by step so you can show up with confidence and calm for your very first Podcast recording.

Step 1: Breathe and Hydrate

Step 2: Warm Up Your Voice

Step 3: Ground Yourself and Stretch

Step 4: Double-Check Your Tech

Step 5: Have Fun and Hit Record!

In this episode, I guide you through every step of the process.

Listen or watch, and don’t forget to save it—you’ll want to revisit it before every podcast recording to feel confident and prepared!

Free resources for your Podcasting journey:

Email Regina with feedback, questions or just say hi at: ⁠[email protected]