learn
intermediate
ChatGPT
Claude
Podcast Guest Interview Scripts with AI
Generate podcast interview scripts with AI. Learn how to use ChatGPT and Claude to create compelling interviews that engage listeners.
10 min read27 February 2026
podcast
interview
scripts
Research your guest thoroughly; read their articles, watch previous interviews, follow their social media. Use this research to personalise questions.
Start with easier rapport-building questions before diving into complex topics.
Prepare 20-30 questions but only plan to use 10-15; flexibility to follow interesting tangents creates better interviews.
Write follow-up probes alongside each question (like 'tell me more about...'); these keep conversations flowing naturally.
Test your audio setup and flow with a friend before recording a real episode; this builds confidence and reduces awkward pauses.
Why This Matters
Podcast interviews can be awkward or magical depending on preparation. Well-prepared hosts ask questions that reveal genuine insights, whilst poorly prepared ones stumble through generic questions. AI helps you craft interview questions that are specific, engaging, and likely to generate great audio. This guide shows how to use AI to improve every podcast interview.
How to Do It
1
Great interviews flow naturally but are strategically designed. Questions should build on previous answers, dig deeper into interesting tangents, and maintain clear narrative arcs.
2
Generic questions produce generic answers. AI helps you research guests deeply and create personalised questions based on their work, background, and unique perspectives.
3
The best interview moments come from open-ended questions that allow guests to share stories and insights. AI helps you craft questions that invite depth.
4
Some guests discuss challenging topics. AI helps you frame questions that are direct without being confrontational, allowing guests to answer honestly.
5
Structure interviews around themes rather than random questions. AI helps you outline narrative arcs that keep listeners engaged from start to finish.
Prompts to Try
Create a 10-question interview script for [GUEST_NAME], who is known for [WORK/ACHIEVEMENT]. Personalise questions based on their background. Include follow-up probes for each question.
I want to discuss [CHALLENGING_TOPIC] with [GUEST_NAME] sensitively. Suggest 5 direct but respectful questions that invite thoughtful answers without defensiveness.
Design an interview structure about [TOPIC] that builds narrative tension. Include opening questions to build rapport, middle questions that go deeper, and closing questions that inspire action.
Common Mistakes
Not following best practices
{'tip': 'Research your guest thoroughly; read their articles, watch previous interviews, follow their social media. Use this research to personalise questions.'}
Frequently Asked Questions
Share your general topics and talking points, but not specific questions. This allows guests to prepare without over-rehearsing, which sounds stiff.
Prepare follow-up probes that dig deeper. Ask 'Can you give an example?' or 'How did that make you feel?' to encourage more detailed responses.
Let them for a bit if it's interesting. Podcast audiences value authenticity. You can gently guide back with transition questions if needed.
Next Steps
["Exceptional podcast interviews result from preparation meeting authenticity. By using AI to create thoughtful, personalised questions and interview structures, you create episodes where guests feel comfortable sharing genuine insights. Combine this preparation with active listening and willingness to follow interesting tangents, and you'll create interviews that listeners love and want to share."]