Podcasting tips and the art of the "human touch" take center stage in this episode as I sit down with Adrian Swinscoe, a seasoned expert in customer experience and the voice behind the Punk CX podcast. Adrian shares his evolution from a curious beginner to a veteran interviewer, emphasizing that the secret to a successful show isn't just the tech, but the ability to facilitate genuine, engaging conversations that prioritize storytelling over product pitching. He argues that while AI in podcasting offers powerful tools for efficiency, the "craft" of the conversation remains a deeply human endeavor that requires investing in oneself and the material.

Throughout the discussion, Adrian provides a masterclass on guest selection, explaining how to choose contributors who maintain audience interest and provide value through unique insights. He offers practical podcasting tips for navigating guest interactions and preparing interviewees for success, ensuring the dialogue feels like a natural conversation rather than a rigid interrogation. By focusing on networking and building relationships, Adrian illustrates how podcasting can serve as a catalyst for professional growth and community engagement.

Whether you are just starting or looking to refine an established show, this episode provides the strategic industry insights needed to stand out in a market of over 2 million podcasts. Adrian’s philosophy is simple yet profound: "Invest in yourself and the material," because ultimately, a great podcast is about the quality of the connection you build with your audience.

Key Insights:

• The Philosophy of Conversation: Approach every interview as a genuine dialogue rather than a sales pitch to foster deeper audience connection.
• Strategic Guest Selection: Prioritize guests who can tell a story and provide actionable value to maintain long-term listener interest.
• Balancing AI and Human Touch: Use technology to enhance the workflow, but never let automation replace the authentic personal connection that defines the craft.
• Consistency and Passion: Long-term success in the podcasting landscape is driven by a genuine enjoyment of the process and a commitment to regular delivery.

Timestamps:

• 00:00 – Introduction to Podcasting and Its Impact
• 04:17 – The Evolution of the Punk CX Podcast
• 12:48 – Guest Selection and Crafting Conversations
• 21:28 – Creating Engaging Content Without the Hard Sell
• 33:36 – The Role of AI in Content Creation
• 40:55 – The Importance of Craft in Podcasting
• 56:12 – Ending Conversations Effectively

Guest Resources & Links:

• Blog: adrianswinscoe.com
• Podcast (Punk CX): Interviews & Insights
• Forbes Column: Adrian Swinscoe on Forbes
• LinkedIn: Adrian Swinscoe Profile
• Twitter: @adrianswinscoe
• Instagram: @punk_cx