Guide: Creating safe interview environments for your guests
Covering difficult or painful topics can be a challenge for podcasters. In many cases, the subject of a podcast episode might be very sensitive or painful to talk about. If you plan to cover topics such as sexual assault, domestic violence or mental illness, it can be hard to know how to create safe environments for your guests when talking about such subjects. We will go through some tips on reducing harm as much as possible and promoting a positive podcast experience for all involved. What do you need to do to create safe interview environments for your guests?
- Consider the purpose of the interview: Think about what you want to learn or accomplish through the interview, and ensure that your questions are focused on achieving those goals.
- Respect the person’s boundaries: Consider what the person may be comfortable or uncomfortable talking about, and avoid asking questions that might be too personal or invasive.
- Be sensitive to language and terminology: Use language and terminology that is respectful and appropriate for the person and the topic. Avoid using terms that might be offensive or triggering, and be open to adapting your language if the person prefers different terminology.
- Consider the person’s perspective: Try to see things from the person’s point of view and avoid assumptions or stereotypes. This can help create a more respectful and empathetic atmosphere for the interview.
It is important to remember that everyone is different, and what works for one person may not work for another. It may take time and patience to build trust and create a comfortable atmosphere for the interview, but with a respectful and empathetic approach, you can create an environment in which the person feels comfortable sharing their thoughts and feelings.
We get it: pain and suffering are uncomfortable. But here’s the thing, when you interview someone who has experienced a tragedy – that person needs to know that you care. That you want to understand or be listened to or acknowledge what they went through. If you don’t create a safe interview environment for your guests, it can negatively impact their experience and the trust between you. There are a few strategies that you can try to help someone open up about a painful topic while minimising harm:
- Create a safe and supportive environment: Make sure the person feels safe and comfortable talking about their feelings. This can involve finding a private or quiet place to talk and making it clear that you are there to listen and support them rather than judge or criticize them.
- Use open-ended questions: Ask questions encouraging the person to share more about their thoughts and feelings rather than just answering with a simple “yes” or “no.” For example, instead of asking, “Did something happen that upset you?” you might say, “Can you tell me more about what happened and how it made you feel?”
- Be patient and non-judgmental: It can be difficult for someone to open up about a painful topic, especially if they have not discussed it before. Be patient, allow them to take their time, and try not to judge or criticize what they say.
- Validate their feelings: Let the person know that it is normal to feel the way they do and that their feelings are valid. This can help them feel more comfortable sharing their thoughts and emotions.
- Encourage self-care: Encourage the person to take care of themselves, both physically and emotionally. This can involve exercise, spending time with friends and loved ones, or seeking support from a therapist or counsellor.
It is important to remember that everyone is different, and what works for one person may not work for another. It may take time and patience to help someone open up about a painful topic, but with a supportive and non-judgmental approach, you can create an environment where they feel comfortable sharing their thoughts and feelings.