How to Research for Your Podcast Episode Like a Pro: Using LinkedIn, AI & Industry Contacts
Creating a great podcast episode starts long before you hit "record." Whether you're crafting a compelling solo show, prepping for a high-profile guest interview, or diving into a niche topic, the depth and quality of your research can make or break your content.
At StreamTODAY Studios, we work with podcasters every day who want to deliver professional, engaging, and credible content. In this guide, we’ll show you how to research smarter—not harder—using a blend of traditional techniques, AI tools, and industry networks like LinkedIn.
🎯 Why Research Matters in Podcasting
Great research helps you:
Ask meaningful, non-obvious questions
Build trust and credibility with your audience
Avoid surface-level fluff
Craft episodes with stronger storytelling and structure
Impress your guests with thoughtful preparation
🛠️ Step 1: Define the Purpose of the Episode
Before diving into any tools, be clear on:
What’s the main takeaway or transformation for the listener?
Is this topical, evergreen, educational, or entertainment-focused?
What tone and format are you aiming for? (e.g., debate, case study, expert deep-dive)
Having clarity here shapes what kind of research you need—and where to find it.
👥 Step 2: Use LinkedIn to Research Guests & Topics
LinkedIn is a goldmine for podcast prep, especially if you’re interviewing professionals or covering industry topics.
Use LinkedIn to:
Study your guest’s background: job history, recent posts, articles, and public endorsements.
Check their speaking style: Have they been on other podcasts? Posted video content?
Pull talking points from their recent activity and highlight shared connections or themes.
Find similar voices: Use filters and hashtags to find other subject-matter experts or emerging voices in your niche.
💡 Pro tip: Engage with your guest’s content before the episode goes live. It builds rapport and signals that you're informed and invested.
🤖 Step 3: Use AI to Build Structure & Dig Deeper
Tools like ChatGPT, Perplexity, Castmagic, and Notion AI can save hours of research time and help shape the flow of your episode.
Use AI for:
Generating intelligent questions tailored to your guest’s expertise
Summarising research papers or long articles
Identifying trending questions in your topic area (Reddit, Quora, TikTok trends)
Creating a first-draft outline of your episode structure
Understanding industry jargon or simplifying complex topics for your audience
💡 Caution: Always fact-check AI responses and use them as a starting point, not the final source.
📡 Step 4: Tap Your Professional Network
Your network is often your most underused research tool.
Ask peers or past guests: What would YOU want to ask this person?
Check internal Slack, WhatsApp, or creator groups for insights, hot takes, or industry scoops.
Use Twitter/X or Instagram stories to run quick polls or collect audience-submitted questions.
Sometimes, the best material comes from someone in your circle who has lived the topic—use that to your advantage.
🧩 Step 5: Curate Supporting Data, Stories & Case Studies
High-impact episodes often include:
Real-world case studies
Recent news stories
Statistics from trusted sources
Quotes from books, blogs, or other shows
Try:
Google Scholar or Statista for data
Medium and Substack for expert opinion pieces
News alerts to stay current with topical hooks
💡 Pro tip: Store your findings in a podcast research bible using tools like Notion, Google Docs, or StreamTODAY’s episode planner.
📝 Step 6: Build a Research Summary & Prep Sheet
This should include:
Guest bio + social handles
List of researched questions (with priority notes)
Talking points, backup questions, and call-to-action reminders
Potential short-form content moments for TikTok/IG
Competitor or past episode references to avoid repetition
🔄 Bonus: Repurpose Your Research
Once the episode goes live, use your research to:
Create blog posts, show notes, or email content
Publish quote cards or audiograms on social media
Generate follow-up episodes or bonus content
Feed future consulting or sponsorship pitches
🎙️ Final Thought: Research Is Your Differentiator
In a world full of casual content, well-researched podcast episodes stand out. They show care, effort, and professionalism—traits that attract not only listeners, but guests, sponsors, and future opportunities.
If you want help shaping episode ideas, researching guests, or building a content strategy that grows your show, our StreamTODAY consulting services are here to guide you.
✅ Ready to record your next standout episode? Book a session now or contact us for a free studio tour.