The right podcast questions can turn a regular interview into a viral sensation.

As a content creator, whether you’re discussing technology, culture, business, or personal growth, you always want to craft questions that intrigue, challenge, and inspire.

In this blog post, we dissect:

• What makes a great podcast question for your guests?
• How can you choose the best questions for your guest and audience?

Read on to find the answers, a list of 100 great podcast questions broken down into ten categories, and many valuable tips.

How to Ask Good Questions for a Podcast

Good questions can take your podcast from mundane to memorable. While there’s no set-in-stone definition of what makes a good question, we know it must be thought-provoking and relevant to the guest’s expertise.

You want to ask questions that:

1. Invite sharing detailed insights, stories, or opinions.
2. Are interesting for the guest to answer and for the audience to listen.

Here are some tips on how to craft effective questions to ask on a podcast:

• Research your guest: Understand their background and achievements and review their past interviews. This way, you will formulate unique and personal questions different from the ones they’ve discussed countless times.
• Know your audience: Tailor your questions to your audience’s interests and knowledge level. Your content will be more engaging and accessible.
• Craft open-ended questions: Frame questions that encourage detailed responses. For instance, instead of “Do you think technology is beneficial?” ask, “How do you think technology has impacted society?“
• Avoid leading questions: Questions that presume a specific answer can limit the response. Instead of “How difficult was it to overcome your challenges?“, try “Can you describe the challenges you faced and how you addressed them?“
• Seek follow-up questions: Listen attentively to their answers and be ready to dive deeper with follow-up questions. You’ll show you’re engaged and value the conversation, which leads to more insightful discussions.
• Mix personal and professional details: Balance questions about their professional life with personal anecdotes or opinions. You’ll reveal their human side and make the conversation more relatable.
• Be flexible: The most interesting insights sometimes come from spontaneous questions. Deviate from your list of questions based on the conversation flow.
• Be clear: Long-winded or complicated questions can confuse the guest and the audience. Ask easy-to-understand, on-point questions.
• Bring closure and reflection: Give a satisfying conclusion to the conversation. End with questions that allow for reflection or looking ahead.

Best Podcast Questions by Category

Each episode you host might explore various emotions and will likely navigate through different questions. That’s why we’ve compiled 100 podcast interview questions, from funny and light-hearted to deep and controversial.

Explore the categories below and make your podcast a captivating experience, no matter the topic.

Funny Podcast Questions

Funny questions are a fantastic way to break the ice, reveal your guests’s quirky sides, and ensure your audience is listening. Remember the following questions to sprinkle humor throughout your conversations:

1. “If you had to eat one [food/dish] daily for the rest of your life, what would it be?”
2. “If you could have a superpower, but it had to be kind of useless, what would it be?”
3. “What’s the funniest thing that ever happened to you during [a vacation/a workday]?”
4. “What’s the silliest reason you’ve ever [gotten in trouble/missed an appointment]?”
5. “What would the title of your autobiography be if it had to make people laugh?”
6. “If you could be any [animal/mythical creature], what would you be and why?”
7. “If you were a [kitchen appliance/office supply], which one would you be?”
8. “What’s the most hilarious [fashion trend/movie] you secretly love?”
9. “What’s the weirdest [gift/dream] you’ve ever received or had?”
10. “If you could start a rumor about yourself, what would it be?”

TIP:

To go from a funny podcast question to a more serious topic, set up a contrast. You might acknowledge how humor helps in difficult times and ask your guests about a time when they had to shift from laughter to overcoming a challenge.

Podcast Questions for Friends

Exploring a friendship during a podcast can be fun. So, as you ask some of the following questions, expect a journey filled with nostalgia, laughter, and perhaps even a few surprises.

1. “What’s one thing you know about me that others would be surprised to learn?”
2. “If we started a business together, what would it be, and who would do what?”
3. “What’s our funniest memory together from [school/college/work]?”
4. “What’s the most embarrassing thing you’ve witnessed me doing?”
5. “If we were in a [movie/TV show], what characters would we be?”
6. “If we could take a trip anywhere, where would we go and why?”
7. “If you could give me a superlative, what would it be and why?”
8. “What song or artist will always remind you of our friendship?”
9. “What’s the craziest thing we’ve ever done together?”
10. “Which one of our inside jokes is your favorite?”

Audiences enjoy getting an intimate glimpse into the dynamics of your friendship. Just make sure your questions won’t make your friend feel uncomfortable.

Interesting Podcast Questions

Interesting questions captivate and engage both guests and listeners. Each question is a doorway to vast possibilities, encouraging your guest to think beyond the ordinary and share their unique perspectives.

1. “If you could have a deep conversation with any [historical figure/fictional character], who would it be?”
2. “If you were given a chance to explore the [ocean/space], which would you choose?”
3. “If you had the power to change one event in your life, what would it be?”
4. “What mystery or phenomenon would you love to solve or understand?”
5. “What’s the most interesting place you’ve ever visited or want to visit?”
6. “What’s one book/movie that profoundly changed your perspective?”
7. “If you could witness any historical event, which would you choose?”
8. “If you could instantly master any language, which would it be?”
9. “What futuristic invention do you wish existed right now?”
10. “What’s an unusual skill or talent you wish you had?”

Remember that the power of these questions lies in their ability to stretch the imagination and deepen understanding. Carry this curiosity forward, and sneak in interesting questions whenever you can during your podcasts.

Juicy Podcast Questions

Juicy questions can transform any podcast episode into an intriguing and slightly daring experience. Expect a mix of shock, laughter, and perhaps a few blushes while you reveal a side of your guest rarely seen in public.

1. “If you could snoop through one person’s private life, whose would it be?”
2. “What’s the most outrageous thing you’ve done for love or friendship?”
3. “Have you ever told a lie to get out of a tricky situation? What was it?”
4. “What’s the wildest thing you’ve done that no one knows about?”
5. “Have you ever had a paranormal or unexplainable experience?”
6. “What was your most embarrassing dating experience?”
7. “What’s the craziest rumor you’ve heard about yourself?”
8. “If you could erase one past mistake, what would it be?”
9. “Have you ever had a celebrity crush, and who was it?”
10. “What’s a secret you’ve never told anyone?”

TIP:

Create a safe and respectful atmosphere when crafting and presenting juicy questions. Prioritize consent and comfort levels by adding a gentle disclaimer to:

• Let your guests know they’re entering a more personal territory.
• Reassure them that they can pass on any question they’re uncomfortable answering.

This approach respects boundaries and maintains a trusting environment that helps your guest open up.

Deep Podcast Questions

Deep questions invite us to pause and reflect, exploring profound thoughts, beliefs, and experiences that shape us. As you navigate these podcast interview questions, you’ll provide a reflective experience for the guest and the listeners.

1. “How has your perspective on the world changed over the years?”
2. “What’s one thing you would change about society if you could?”
3. “What’s your greatest fear, and how do you manage it?”
4. “How do you define happiness, and have you found it?”
5. “What’s the toughest decision you’ve ever made?”
6. “Have you ever had a life-changing revelation?”
7. “How do you cope with the uncertainties of life?”
8. “What life event has shaped you the most?”
9. “What do you think happens after we die?”
10. “What does true love mean to you?”

After delving into a deep question, transition smoothly with a moment of lightness or reflection to maintain the flow and tone of the conversation.

For instance, thank the guest for their honesty and depth. Then, introduce a “palette cleanser” question or comment — something neutral or uplifting to gently shift the mood, such as:

“That was incredibly profound; thank you for sharing. Let’s take a light turn. Tell me about something small that made you smile recently?“

Relationship Podcast Questions

Exploring the dynamics of relationships leads to intimate and insightful discussions that audiences are eager for. Use the following questions for inspiration if you need to tackle this topic and don’t know what to ask.

1. “How do you balance personal growth with a committed relationship?”
2. “What do you think is the biggest challenge couples face today?”
3. “How has a past relationship shaped your current view of love?”
4. “What’s the best relationship advice you’ve ever received?”
5. “How important is communication in your relationships?”
6. “How has your view on love and relationships evolved?”
7. “What’s the key to maintaining a healthy relationship?”
8. “How do you navigate conflicts in your relationships?”
9. “What’s a non-negotiable for you in relationships?”
10. “What does trust mean to you in a relationship?”

Relationships differ from one person to another. If you want to avoid offending anyone, there’s an etiquette for having these conversations, which usually involves you:

• Value consent and comfort: Before diving into personal relationship topics, ensure your guest is comfortable discussing these issues.
• Show privacy respect: Even if a guest is open about their relationship, don’t press for details that might infringe on their or others’ privacy.
• Avoid generalizations: Dodge sweeping generalizations about gender, orientation, or relationship types.
• Be discrete with sensitive topics: Approach topics like abuse, infidelity, or loss with particular care and give the guest the option not to answer.

Business Podcast Questions

Unraveling the strategies, insights, and stories behind successful business endeavors can be exciting. Use the following podcast question examples to help your audience learn from those who’ve encountered the highs and lows of business.

1. “What trends do you predict will impact your industry in the next [5/10] years?”
2. “How do you balance [profitability/sustainability] in your business model?”
3. “How do you approach decision-making in tough business situations?”
4. “How do you stay innovative in a [fast-paced/competitive] industry?”
5. “What’s been your most effective strategy for [growth/marketing]?”
6. “What role has mentorship played in your business journey?”
7. “What advice would you give to aspiring entrepreneurs?”
8. “What’s the biggest risk you’ve taken in your business?”
9. “What inspired you to start your [business/venture]?”
10. “How do you handle failure or setbacks in business?”

TIP:

Your guests expect some sort of exposure or promotion. Your audience expects value. Meanwhile, your goal is to make the conversation feel authentic and engaging. To avoid the pitfalls of overt promotion and make everyone happy:

• Avoid directly promoting the guest’s services when you can.
• Focus on storytelling and real-life explanations instead.

For instance, you might ask, “Can you tell us about a time when your service significantly impacted a client’s business?” or “What’s a success story that proves the value your company provides?

Controversial Podcast Questions

Controversial questions are among the most illuminating and challenging in any podcast. Whether you’re diving into topics that evoke passion, debate, or diverse perspectives, tread with respect, curiosity, and an open mind.

1. “How do you approach [sensitive cultural topic] in your work/life?”
2. “How do you view the impact of [controversial industry practice]?”
3. “Do you believe [specific conspiracy theory] has any truth to it?”
4. “What’s your perspective on [debated scientific theory]?”
5. “What’s your take on [ethical dilemma] in your industry?”
6. “Where do you stand on [controversial law or policy]?”
7. “What are your thoughts on [divisive public figure]?”
8. “What’s your opinion on [hot-button social issue]?”
9. “What’s your stance on [current political issue]?”
10. “Do you think [controversial topic] is justified?”

Remember that these questions are not about getting provocative responses. Try to understand rather than confront.

Podcast Questions About Mental Health

Discussing mental health is both vital and delicate. Every time you do it, you must navigate personal experiences, misconceptions, and the societal landscape surrounding mental health. Use the following questions to foster a safe and empathetic space for open dialogue.

1. “What misconceptions about mental health do you wish to address?”
2. “What’s your perspective on the stigma surrounding mental health?”
3. “How has mental health awareness changed in recent years?”
4. “What advice would you give to someone struggling silently?”
5. “What coping strategies have you found effective for stress?”
6. “What role does therapy play in your mental wellbeing?”
7. “How has social media impacted your mental health?”
8. “How do you prioritize mental health in your daily life?”
9. “Can you share a personal mental health journey?”
10. “How do you balance work and mental health?”

TIP:

Mental health convos should encourage listeners to take positive steps toward their mental health.

After discussing such topics, provide listeners with resources to seek help or learn more. You can mention websites, hotlines, or organizations known for their mental health advocacy and support.

Doing so keeps the conversation constructive and conveys that help and support are available.

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Sports Podcast Questions

Regarding sports, the stories, routines, and passions run as deep as the games themselves. Sports podcast questions can delve into the hearts and minds of athletes and fans alike, and people never seem to get tired of it.

Questions for Athletes

For athletes, you can look into their daily grind, mental preparation, and standout moments.

1. “What’s your daily training routine like?”
2. “How do you mentally prepare for a match?”
3. “What’s your most memorable victory or defeat?”
4. “Who has been your toughest opponent and why?”
5. “How do you maintain focus and discipline?”

General Sports Questions for Fans

For fans, you can dive into the cultural impact, memorable experiences, and perspectives on the evolution of their favorite sports.

1. “How does being a sports fan impact your life?”
2. “What’s your all-time favorite sports moment?”
3. “Who do you think is the greatest athlete of all time?”
4. “What changes would you like to see in your favorite sport?”
5. “How has the world of [specific sport] evolved in recent years?”

Sports are about universal passion, drama, and camaraderie, so they make great podcast interview questions. They offer a common ground for stories that resonate with a broad audience, making for engaging and lively podcast content.

What’s the Best Way to End a Podcast Interview?

The podcast ending is the final impression you leave with your audience. Aim for a conclusion that reflects your show’s quality and character, making it as engaging and thoughtful as the conversation itself. Here are some steps to consider:

• Summarize the key points: Recap the most exciting points to remind listeners of the highlights and show the value of the conversation.
• Thank your guest: Show your guest genuine gratitude for the time and insights they offered. Acknowledge specific parts of the conversation to make the appreciation feel more sincere.
• Allow plugs: Give your guest an opportunity to mention where listeners can find them, their work, or any upcoming projects they’d like to promote. Mention any of your relevant podcast news or forthcoming episodes.
• Ask a final thought-provoking question: Sometimes, ending with a last, reflective question can leave the audience with something to ponder, adding a memorable closure to the interview.
• Make a call to action for listeners: Encourage listeners to subscribe, share, or engage with the podcast. Prompt them to visit your website for more information or to check out other materials related to the interview.
• Have a consistent closing: Pick a statement, catchphrase, quote, or consistent closing message that signals the end of the podcast and that listeners grow to recognize.
• Provide post-interview content: After the formal sign-off, offer additional content, such as a preview of the next episode or other remarks about the interview. These snippets keep the audience engaged for longer.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

The answers to the following podcast FAQs will help you make the most of all the suggestions in this blog post:

How Can I Tailor My Questions to Suit Different Types of Guests?

To tailor questions for different guests, research their background, interests, and expertise. Craft questions that allow them to share unique insights. This personal approach will make your guests feel valued and bring out the best in the conversation.

How Do I Balance Deep and Light-hearted Questions in a Podcast?

To balance deep and light-hearted questions, start with more accessible topics that build rapport, then gradually delve into more profound subjects. Pay attention to your guest’s responses and adjust to ensure the conversation doesn’t become too heavy or trivial.

Can I Use Audience-submitted Questions in My Podcast?

Yes, audience-submitted questions engage your listeners and make them feel a part of the conversation. Just be sure to filter and select relevant, respectful questions that add value to the discussion. Informing your guests beforehand about these questions can also help them prepare better responses.

How Can I Prepare for Unpredictable Answers in a Podcast Interview?

To prepare for unpredictable answers, listen actively. Familiarize yourself with a wide range of possible topics related to your guest and be ready to steer the conversation back if it strays. A flexible outline rather than a rigid script can help you navigate unexpected turns smoothly.

How Can I Encourage My Guests to Open Up During the Podcast?

To encourage guests to open up, create a comfortable and trusting environment. Show genuine interest in their stories and listen actively, acknowledging their feelings and experiences. Sharing your own experiences can help them to share more freely.

Are There Any Topics or Questions I Should Avoid in a Podcast?

Avoid topics or questions that are overly personal, offensive, or irrelevant to the guest’s expertise, and steer clear of subjects they are uncomfortable with or unprepared to discuss. It’s also wise to avoid speculative or accusatory questions that could lead to misunderstandings or legal issues.

Conclusion

With these insights, strategies, and best podcast questions, you can take your content to new heights.

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