5 Tips For Making The Most of Your Podcast Session

Have you been thinking about booking a session in Riva Offices Podcast Studio? Well podcasting has become one of the most popular ways to share stories, ideas, and conversations.

To help you make the most of your sessions, we spoke with seasoned podcaster Jana Christodoulou, host of Thanks for Sharing. She offered five tips drawn from her own experience behind the mic.

Whether you’re just starting out or have been podcasting for a while, Jana’s tips offer practical and thoughtful ways to create more engaging and meaningful episodes.

“You want authenticity, not a Q&A session.” – Jana Christodoulou from Thanks for Sharing Podcast

1. Always do your research

Preparation is key. “Take time to understand who you’re speaking with,” Jana explains. This goes beyond just reading their bio, explore their past work, social media presence, and any previous interviews they've done. Knowing your guest’s background allows you to craft insightful questions and opens the door for more organic, engaging discussions. It also shows your guest that you value their time and story.

2. Create a warm and safe environment

One of the most overlooked aspects of a great interview is the space in which it takes place. “People open up when they feel safe,” Jana says. Whether you're recording remotely or in person, be intentional about creating a calm, welcoming atmosphere. The tone you set at the beginning can influence the entire episode, whether it’s a solo recording or a guest interview.

3. Ground yourself before the interview

Before you start recording, take a moment to pause. Grounding practices like mindfulness, deep breathing, or visualisation can help calm your nerves and bring your full attention to the conversation. Jana recommends using these few moments to centre yourself and set an intention for the episode. “When you’re grounded, you can hold the space better,” she notes.

4. Offer discussion points, not a script

While it’s helpful to have key topics or questions prepared, too much structure can limit the spontaneity that makes podcast conversations feel real. Jana suggests giving your guest a few discussion points beforehand to ease any anxiety, but leaving room for the conversation to flow naturally. “You want authenticity, not a Q&A session,” she says. Finding common ground ahead of time can help spark genuine connection and fluid dialogue.

5. Focus on connection over performance

At the heart of every compelling podcast episode is a meaningful connection. “The best conversations are the ones where both people are present and aligned,” Jana shares.

Rather than aiming for perfection, focus on being present with your guest. Ask thoughtful questions, listen deeply, and let the conversation unfold. Your audience will feel that connection and that’s what keeps them coming back.

Whether you're recording in the Riva Offices Podcast Studio or from the comfort of your home, these simple tips from Jana can help you create a more enjoyable experience for your guests and a more engaging one for your listeners.

If you’ve been thinking about starting a podcast or recording another episode, this might be the perfect time to give it a go, you can book our Podcast Studios here.