Opening, middle and closing questions for interviews, documentaries and panel shows, plus tips for the host.
A good discussion doesn’t need a leader with all the answers. It needs a few open questions and a rough running order. This guide works for almost any podcast episode, whether it’s an interview, a narrative documentary or a chatty panel show. Copy it, adapt it and bring it to your next meeting.
Before the meeting
- Share the episode at least two weeks ahead
- Send three or four questions from this guide in advance
- Ask everyone to note one moment that stood out
- Remind people it’s fine to come even if they didn’t finish
Opening: first reactions
Go around the group quickly. Keep each answer short.
- In one word, how did the episode make you feel?
- What’s one moment you remember most clearly?
- Did anything surprise you?
Middle: digging in
Choose the questions that fit the episode.
For interviews
- What did the guest believe that you agree or disagree with?
- What question would you have asked that the host didn’t?
- Did your view of the guest change during the episode?
For documentaries and stories
- Whose perspective was missing from the story?
- How did the way it was told shape how you felt?
- Was the ending satisfying? Why or why not?
For panel and chat shows
- Which host or panellist did you side with most?
- What topic deserved more time?
- Did the format help or get in the way?
Wider view
- Does this connect to anything in your own life or work?
- What would you tell a friend about this episode?
- Has it changed how you think about the topic?
Closing
- One thing you’ll take away
- Would you listen to more from this show?
- What should we listen to next?
Tips for the host
Ask a question, then wait. Silence often comes right before the best answer. Invite quieter members by name, gently. If the talk wanders somewhere interesting, let it.
After the meeting
Add the episode to your club’s list with a quick note on how the discussion went. Over time, you’ll build a record of what works for your group.
New to this? Read how to start a podcast club and the listening club guide.