Solo, Guest or Hybrid? Choosing the Right Podcast Format
Should your business podcast be a solo show, built around guests—or a mix of both? In this episode of The PR Podcast Edge, Mark Hunter and Lindsay Reid explore one of the most important decisions to make before you start recording: choosing a format you can sustain. Solo episodes give you complete control over the message, make it easier to share your expertise and can be recorded efficiently around your own schedule. Guest episodes bring fresh perspectives, valuable connections and the chance to reach new audiences—but they also involve research, diary coordination and a steady pipeline of the right people. Mark and Lindsay explain why the answer may be a hybrid format: using solo episodes to build authority and guest conversations to expand your network, add variety and create new opportunities. They also consider in-person versus remote recording, why production quality matters in either setting, and how to make the occasional exception for a dream guest. What you’ll learn How to choose a format around the outcome you want for your audience Why solo episodes can be powerful for building credibility and authority The planning and scheduling demands that come with guest-led shows How guest interviews can help you connect with potential clients and partners Why a hybrid format can offer the best of both approaches When remote recording makes sense—and why quality still matters How to build consistency and longevity into your podcast from day one The key takeaway: don’t choose a format based only on what feels exciting at launch. Choose one that still works for your audience, your business and your diary six months—or five years—from now. Follow The PR Podcast Edge for practical conversations about podcast strategy, storytelling, influence and impact. Hosts Mark Hunter — Co-founder, Podcast Studio Glasgow Lindsay Reid — Founder, Lindsay Reid PR Chapters: 00:00 Welcome and Introductions 00:40 Solo vs Guest Formats 01:28 Time and Scheduling 02:14 Consistency and Longevity 04:27 Business Goals and Authority 05:47 Hybrid Model Strategy 06:43 Guest Booking Challenges 07:12 Remote vs In Person 08:09 Production Quality Tools 09:12 Exceptions for Dream Guests 10:18 Final Takeaways and Wrap Up