Solo vs Guest Episodes: Which Format Grows Your Podcast Faster?

In this value-packed episode, Alex Chisnall and James Burtt dive into one of the biggest format questions for podcasters: solo episodes vs guest interviews. Whether you're just starting or looking to grow and monetise your podcast, understanding how each format contributes to reach, authority, and audience engagement is crucial. From storytelling strategies to content repurposing hacks, this episode gives you a real-world, no-fluff comparison backed by personal experience and hundreds of podcast launches.

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

• The biggest benefits (and drawbacks) of solo episodes

• How guest interviews can organically boost your reach

• Why doing both formats can supercharge your podcast

• The role of thought leadership in the expert economy

• Real-life examples from top podcasters like Steven Bartlett and Gary Vee

• Tips for scripting, pacing, and bullet-point prompting in solo episodes

• How to build a deeper connection with your ideal listener

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Key Takeaways:

1. Solo episodes help build expert authority and position you as a thought leader

2. Guest episodes are brilliant for growing your reach and tapping into new audiences

3. You don’t have to pick one—mix formats based on what serves your audience best

4. Pre-recorded content allows you to be human—don’t aim for perfection

5. Always make content with your ideal listener in mind

Recommended Tools & Resources:

• YourPodcastCourse.com — Step-by-step tools, templates & trainings to launch and grow your podcast

• Otter.ai — Our go-to tool for fast, accurate podcast transcriptionsGary Vee's Content Deck — Google this free guide for repurposing macro content into 70+ micro pieces

Join the Conversation:

If you enjoyed this episode, share it with a fellow podcaster looking to grow their revenue. For more resources and expert advice, explore our latest content and stay connected with us on social media for valuable podcasting insights.

Follow Us:

• Instagram: @podschool

• TikTok: @podschool.community

• YouTube: @stargrowmonetiseyourpodcast

• LinkedIn: James Burtt & Alex Chisnall

In this show, we discuss:

solo podcast episodes, guest podcast format, how to grow your podcast, podcasting for entrepreneurs, podcast tips 2025, how to monetise your podcast, start a podcast, podcast launch strategy, B2B podcasting, podcast thought leadership, Alex Chisnall podcast, James Burtt podcast, Your Podcast Course, solo vs guest podcast, content repurposing podcast, podcasting tips YouTube