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How To Be a Better Podcast Host (or Co-host)

April 20, 2026 · 35 min

Show notes

What are the core skills that make a great podcast host? Before podcasting, there was broadcasting, and there’s still a lot to learn from it.

This week, Neil and Jen go back to school, well, Jen's school that is. They head to BCIT’s broadcasting studios to host Jen’s former instructors, Kathryn Stewart and Kevin Ribble, now co-hosts of Ignite My Voice. Kat and Kevin share what podcast hosts can learn from broadcast training, using your breath to manage nerves on the mic, how to keep an audience engaged, storytelling & listening, and letting go of imposter syndrome.

They also explore co-host dynamics, writing for audio, and how podcasting blends the discipline of radio with the freedom of conversation. It’s a fun, practical, behind-the-scenes look at the core skills that make for better podcasting—and why your voice is your most powerful tool.


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Chapters:

  • (00:00) - Introduction
  • (04:25) - Introducing Kat, Kevin, and the BCIT Program
  • (06:18) - Ignite My Voice & Podcast Freedom
  • (10:02) - Keeping Listeners Engaged and Telling Better Stories
  • (12:06) - Conversation Flow & "Story-Listening"
  • (14:52) - Managing Nerves, Confidence, and Imposter Syndrome
  • (18:21) - The “One Listener” Mindset and Audience Connection
  • (20:19) - Voice, Breath, and the Mind-Body Approach to Hosting
  • (24:21) - Co-Hosting, Scripts, and Finding Your Natural Style
  • (28:37) - Conversation vs. Interview
  • (30:11) - Letting Go of Fear
  • (32:53) - Conclusion

All episodes of Continuing Studies: Higher Ed Podcasting

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