WHAT'S IT LIKE PREPARING FOR SOUND OF THE OVERGROUND PODCAST?

Our latest episode of the podcast has just been released – this time, it’s with our managing director, Steve Best. It’s a big one, so George Clarke, co-host of Sound of the Overground sat down with Exchange Extra to run through how he prepares for a podcast with the boss...

From the start of putting this podcast together, I wanted to nail down a schedule of guests well in advance; it makes everything a lot smoother. For this one, we picked Steve back in the early part of the year, giving him between four to five months before we sat down and spoke. That timing was deliberate. We wanted him to have had enough time of the year so we could ask meaningful questions about his plans, priorities, and what’s already starting to take shape.

Once the guest is confirmed, I start pulling together the script. It’s not word-for-word – more of a guide to help keep the flow natural but purposeful. I always want it to feel like a genuine conversation, not an interview under bright lights. We’ve promoted the podcast as ‘no corporate filter,’ so it’s important for Bentley (Sound of the Overground co-host), and me to stay true to that.

I build the script with an open mind in true 'no corporate filter' fashion. Given my job, I am familiar with many of the projects and initiatives the business has in place, so I utilise that insight to help write it. However, I always welcome input from our guests at any point. As co-hosts, we need to know about the subject we're discussing, but I like to put ownership in the hands of those joining us in the studio to steer the conversation in the right direction; they're the experts.

I'll make sure there's a briefing session at least a week ahead of recording. It’s important the guest(s) knows what the setup looks like, how the podcast works, and what to expect when we hit record. That tends to settle the nerves (for them and me!).

On the day, I always aim to arrive early – it helps to get everything in place, test the equipment without rushing, and give Bentley some grief about his beloved Arsenal - a personal highlight was seeing him a couple of days after PSG knocked them out of the Champions League! I’ll usually grab a coffee or a drink on the way in – just something small that gives me a moment to get into the right headspace. I start to think in my head about how different sections of the podcast might sound during my commute, what potential answers we might get from questions, and how we can follow up... and I never get the answers I predict! It's all part of the fun, I guess.

I like to use that time to catch up with the production team we work with to put the podcast together – it’s important in my mind that we’re aligned before we head into the studio. Everyone being on the same page makes a big difference. Then, it’s time for Bentley and me to get ready with soundchecks and build a bit of rapport with Steve.

I’ve learnt that taking a few minutes to chat and have a natural conversation before recording helps ease the tension on both sides – it sets the tone and makes everything feel more relaxed.

Once I hear the words “ready when you are”, all the prep kicks in. It’s about listening closely, following the thread of the conversation, and being open to where it goes – while still keeping the bigger picture in mind.

I must admit, it's been a lot of fun doing these podcasts. I've always been one to listen to podcasts, more so than music, so having the opportunity to host Sound of the Overground with Bentley has been a great experience.

I'd encourage everyone to listen to this episode. You'll not only hear about Steve's thoughts on things related to ARL but also get to know a bit more about him as a person – his journey, what's shaped him, and how he's progressed throughout his career. The podcast is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all the main podcast platforms, so it's easy to find wherever you usually listen.

We'd love to hear what you think – you can leave a comment or rating on the platform or drop us a line at communications@arrivarl.co.uk.

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