How to Handle Nervousness during a Podcast Interview

As a science educator with a PhD, I have given countless interviews on various platforms. However, even with years of experience, I still get nervous before a podcast interview. And trust me, it is a feeling many people in the industry can relate to.

Nervousness is a natural response to any stressful situation, and a podcast interview is no exception. However, there are techniques you can use to handle the butterflies in your stomach and deliver a great performance.

1. Preparation is Key

The biggest contributor to nervousness is feeling underprepared. Make sure to do your research on the podcast, the host, and the topic before the interview. This will help you anticipate the questions that might come up, and give you time to prepare answers in advance.

Preparation also involves practicing your delivery. Speak with a friend or colleague about the topic, and get feedback on how you sound. It might be helpful to record yourself and listen to it later to identify areas that need improvement.

2. Deep Breathing

Before the interview, take a few minutes to practice deep breathing exercises. This will help calm your nerves and reduce anxiety. Focus on breathing in through your nose and exhaling through your mouth slowly.

If you find yourself getting nervous during the interview, take a few deep breaths before answering any questions. This will help you stay calm and composed.

3. Mindset Shift

If you are nervous, don’t try to fight it. Instead, shift your mindset and try to reframe the situation. Instead of seeing the interview as a source of stress, think of it as an opportunity to share your expertise and knowledge with a wider audience.

Visualization techniques can be helpful here. Imagine yourself giving an amazing interview, and receiving positive feedback from listeners. Remember that nerves are a sign that you care about the outcome, and that’s a good thing.

4. Be Yourself

Finally, remember to be yourself. It’s natural to want to come across as knowledgeable and professional, but don’t lose sight of who you are. Speak in your own voice, and share your opinions and experiences.

At the end of the day, podcast listeners want to hear authentic voices and perspectives. So, relax, and remember that you were invited to the interview for a reason.

In Conclusion

Nervousness is a natural response to any high-pressure situation, including a podcast interview. However, with adequate preparation, deep breathing exercises, a positive mindset, and a focus on being authentic, you can overcome your jitters and give an excellent interview.

Remember that the goal of the interview is to share your knowledge and expertise with a wider audience, and that is a great opportunity. So go ahead and ace that podcast interview like the science educator that you are!