🎙 When Guests Go Rogue: How to Steer the Mic Back Gracefully

👋Hey there Podcaster!

Ever had a guest totally take over your podcast or felt lost choosing where your show’s community should live online? This week’s Podcasting Morning Chat delivered real-talk solutions for both. We tackled what to do when a guest steamrolls your episode and how to gracefully take the mic back without killing the vibe. Then we shifted gears to explore where podcasters are actually building connection off-air from Facebook to Substack and everything in between. If you’ve ever wondered how to balance control, community, and your own sanity behind the mic, these conversations are packed with perspective.

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🎙 When Guests Go Rogue: How to Steer the Mic Back Gracefully

What do you do when a podcast guest totally derails your episode?

They hijack the mic. Ignore your question. Ramble for 8…10 minutes.

That’s exactly what came up in last week’s Podcasting Morning Chat when our community dove into the challenge of staying in control without killing the vibe.

Here’s what emerged from the conversation with some super smart takes from hosts like Emily, Rosie, and Jackie:

🛑 Interrupt With Tact

When you need to gently interrupt your guest, try addressing them by name and referencing something they’ve just mentioned. It makes the interruption feel more natural. From there, confidently steer the conversation in the direction you want to take it. 

🧠 Use Nonverbal Cues

Subtle signals can often do the heavy lifting. A simple raised finger, leaning in slightly, or making intentional eye contact during a video interview can help your guest sense it’s time to wrap things up, all without feeling abruptly cut off.

🧰 Prep “Rescue Phrases”

It’s smart to have a few phrases ready when things veer off course. Here are some reliable go-to’s:

• “Let’s circle back to my original question…”
  
• “For anyone just tuning in, here’s a quick recap…”
  

These types of phrases keep the conversation flowing smoothly and remind listeners you’re actively guiding the episode.

✂️ Edit Ruthlessly
If the convo goes truly sideways? Clip the chaos in post. Find a golden moment, center the episode around it, and let the rest hit the cutting room floor. You don’t owe your audience the full unfiltered version.

💡 Do a Pre-Call
And maybe the best tip of all? Hop on a quick pre-interview. It doesn’t have to be scripted, just enough to build connection and set expectations. Let them know how you’ll handle timing, transitions, and even gentle redirections.

Podcasting is a dance and sometimes your guest is stepping all over your feet. The key is knowing how to gently take the lead again, without making it weird.

👉 What’s your favorite way to manage a guest who’s steamrolling your show? Hit reply and tell us, we’ll feature the best tips next week!

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🤝 Where’s Your People? Finding the Right Platform to Grow Your Podcast Community

What’s the “right” platform to build an online community around your podcast or business?

Spoiler: there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. But there is a space that feels right for you and your audience.

That’s exactly what we explored in a recent episode of the Podcasting Morning Chat when a listener asked:
“I have so much to share with my audience that doesn’t fit in my episodes, and I want more of a two-way conversation. What’s working for you?”

Here’s what came up from our crew of generous and experienced creators:

🧠 Know Where Your Audience Hangs Out
Start by figuring out where your listeners already spend time. Facebook Groups, Instagram, YouTube, LinkedIn, Discord: every show has a different vibe and demo. If your people are there, you should be too.

💬 Pick a Place You Actually Like
Nicole brought up the real struggle of forcing yourself onto a platform you can’t stand. Even if your audience is there, if the space feels heavy or fake to you, it’ll drain your energy. Choose a platform you feel good about showing up on regularly.

🎥 Livestreams Create Real-Time Connection
Platforms like YouTube and Facebook Live let you show up face-to-face and turn listeners into an engaged community. Livestream Q&As, behind-the-scenes chats, or even casual coffee talks can create deeper bonds.

🧰 Custom Platforms for More Ownership
If you’re ready for something more self-directed, tools like Substack, Patreon, or BuddyBoss give you more control and features. Amanda shared how her private Mighty Networks community fosters amazing conversations, but it does take effort to keep the energy alive.

📱 Keep It Simple and Sustainable
The truth? The best platform is the one you and your audience will actually use. Not the flashiest or the newest. The one that feels manageable and aligned.

Building community isn't just about choosing the right platform. It's about consistency, comfort, and connection. Whether you’re posting weekly reels, hopping on live streams, or writing Substack newsletters, the key is showing up in a way that feels human and repeatable.

👉 So tell us: What platform have you loved (or ditched) while trying to build your podcast community? Reply and let us know. We’ll share your tips next week!

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🎉 We’re Nominated – And We Need Your Vote! 🗳️

Big news! The Podcasting Morning Chat has been nominated for the Podcast Awards in TWO amazing categories:

🏆 The Adam Curry People’s Choice Award
📚 The Education Award

This recognition means the world to us, and now we need your help to bring it home! Voting is officially open at PodcastAwards.com. It only takes a minute to cast your vote and support a show that’s all about learning, growing, and starting the day with meaningful conversation.

👉 Head to PodcastAwards.com, sign up to vote, and select The* Podcasting Morning Chat in both categories!

*they have us listed alphabetically under ‘T’ for ‘T’he Podcasting Morning Chat. 

Thank you for being such an amazing part of our podcasting family. Let’s do this together! 💛

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🎙️Podcasting Morning Chat Highlights🌅

Welcome to your essential morning brew of ideas and insights, the "Podcasting Morning Chat" is a daily show that's by creators, for creators. A dynamic team of experienced podcasters, entrepreneurs, and producers hosts the PMC. Each episode peels back the curtain on the art of podcasting and content creation. The conversation is a mix of insights, stories, and strategies, tailor-made to keep your content fresh, your audience engaged, and your creative spark alive. 

Recorded live every Tuesday-Friday (temporary summer schedule) at 7 AM EST on Clubhouse and available via podcast at 7 AM PST, our show has become a cornerstone for podcasters worldwide, offering a unique blend of expert advice, real-world success stories, and innovative ideas. Whether you're here to enhance your content, expand your audience, or just soak in the collective wisdom of fellow content creators, the PMC is your source for inspiration, empowerment and connection in the podcasting world. 

Catch up with the latest episodes and join our global community of creators to kick-start your day with creativity, strategy, and insight.

• July 22, 2025: Episode #342: Podcast Guests Gone Wrong
• July 23, 2025: Episode #343: Remembering Malcolm-Jamal Warner, Substack’s $100M Leap, & Shark Tank for Indie Podcasters
• July 24, 2025: Episode #344: Social Media Took Down Your Podcast Account…Now What?
• July 25, 2025: Episode #345: Qualities of a Super Guest & Signs They're the Right Fit

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I’m so grateful to be connected with you and a part of your podcast journey. 

All My Best,

👋Marc Ronick

This content was composed with assistance from OpenAI

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