What if I told you that most interviews are mind-numbingly boring, and you're probably doing them wrong? Today I interview Tracy Johnson, and after decades in radio and working with countless shows, he's written a book, <a href="https://geni.us/mic-drop-moments" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Mic Drop Moments</a>, that shares the secrets to transforming mediocre conversations into absolute "Didya Hear That?!" moments. In this episode, we pull back the curtain on selecting guests that will electrify your audience, ask questions that make people lean in, and tell stories that keep listeners hanging on every word. Whether you're a seasoned podcaster or just starting out, what we share will completely change how you approach interviews forever. So if you're ready to stop settling for bland, forgettable conversations and start creating audio magic, hit play right now.<h2>The Triple Threat Filter for Interview Guests:</h2>1. Familiarity- How well-known is the guest to your audience?- A familiar guest brings built-in interest and recognition- More famous guests typically make better interview subjects- Provides an immediate connection for listeners2. Relevance- Does the guest's story or background matter to your audience?- Must align with your podcast's theme and target listeners- Simply being famous isn't enough if the content doesn't resonate- The guest should provide value specific to your show's focus3. Interest/Entertainment- Can the guest tell a compelling story?- Ability to be engaging, dynamic, and captivating- Brings unique perspectives or unexpected narratives- Makes the host look good by providing memorable contentAim to have at least two out of three criteria met. If you lose two out of three, the interview will likely be challenging to make interesting. The ultimate goal is to leverage the guest's story to enhance your podcast's entertainment value.<h2>The 3E's of Entertainment:</h2>1. Enhance- Add extra details to make the story more interesting- Go beyond the basic facts- Ask questions like "What were you thinking at that moment?"- Create additional context that wasn't initially present- Make the story more vivid and engaging2. Exaggerate- Slightly amplify the story's impact- Turn a small moment into a bigger narrative- Example: A small fish becomes "the biggest catch of the season."- Create dramatic tension without losing the core truth- Make the story more memorable and exciting3. Embellish- Add creative storytelling elements- Stage the story for maximum entertainment value- Take a brief moment and turn it into a full narrative- Example: A simple backstage conversation becomes an epic ping pong challenge- Use creative license to make the story more compellingAs audiences crave authenticity, Tracy isn't saying to lie, but you can bring in adjectives that trigger the theater of the mind.<h2>Resources Mention</h2><a href="https://geni.us/mic-drop-moments" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Mic Drop Moments Book</a><a href="https://tjohnsonmediagroup.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Tracy Johnson Media Website</a><a href="https://community.schoolofpodcasting.com/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=shownotes&utm_campaign=984" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">School of Podcasting</a><a href="https://schoolofpodcasting.com/the-ultimate-guide-to-hosting-and-guesting-podcast-interviews/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Episode 677 The Ultimate Guide to Hosting and Guesting Podcast Interviews</a><a href="https://www.jordanharbinger.com/drew-carey-the-price-is-right-but-these-stories-are-priceless/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Drew Carey on Jordan Harbinger Show</a> (start at 48:14 nsfw)<a href="https://www.jordanharbinger.com/howie-mandel-a-conversation-about-mental-health-talent-and-perseverance/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Howie Mandel on Jordan Harbinger</a><a href="https://www.jordanharbinger.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Jordan Harbinger Show</a>Find "All Things Dave" at <a href="https://www.powerofpodcasting.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">powerofpodcasting.com</a>Say Thanks for a Great Show <a href="https://www.schoolofpodcasting.com/thanks" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">schoolofpodcasting.com/thanks</a>Mentioned in this episode:Question of the Month: Got a Question For the Question of the Month?We've done this before. What would you ask if you were me? What question would you ask a group of podcasters? Be sure to say a little bit about your show and your website so we can give you a shoutout. I need you to answer by May 23rd, 20225.<a href="https://school-of-podcasting.captivate.fm/qotm">Question of the Month</a>Join the School of Podcasting Today - Your Future Self Will Thank YouStepping out of your comfort zone isn't easy, but at the School of Podcasting, we're here to make it feel like second nature. With our expertly crafted courses and an incredible community, you're never alone in your journey. From planning and launching to growing your podcast, I’ll be right by your side every step of the way. Remember, every podcast episode builds connections and opens doors to future opportunities. Take action today, and let your future self reap the rewards.<a href="https://school-of-podcasting.captivate.fm/start">School of Podcasting</a>I Want Your OpinionI am doing an audience survey and I want your input to help me make this show exactly what you want. If you have a few minutes, I have a quick survey at www.schoolofpodcasting.com/survey25<a href="https://school-of-podcasting.captivate.fm/survey">2025 Audience Survey</a>Live AppearancesI'd love to meet you in person, I'm currently coming to
July 12th, 20025 Higher Ed Podcon, Chicago, Ill
AUGUST 18-21, 2025 Podcast Movement, Dallas, TX.
September 26-28, 2005, Empowered Podcasting Conference, Uptown Charlotte, NC
For more information and links, click the link below.
If you'd like for me to speak at an in-person or online event, go to schoolofpodcasting.com/contact<a href="https://school-of-podcasting.captivate.fm/where">Where Will I Be?</a>

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Mic Drop Moments: How to Turn Boring Interviews into Podcast Gold with Tracy Johnson

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