Interviewing for Radio - Practical Guide to Broadcast Interviews

Our review of Interviewing for Radio finds it essential for anyone learning or teaching the craft of broadcast interviews; its clearest strength is a practical, experience-led approach to the techniques that get useful on-air answers. Jim Beaman writes as an experienced producer and instructor, and the text reads like a workshop in book form, covering everything from the history of the radio interview to the practicalities of microphones, studio work and editing. For newcomers and course leaders alike this book is a compact, authoritative primer on pursuing better interviews for radio.

Key Features

• Comprehensive technique coverage: Explains how to ask the right question and elicit substantive responses, making it easier to prepare effective interviews.
• Practical studio guidance: Guides the reader through the mechanics of recording and the studio environment so technicians and presenters understand real-world workflow.
• Live and recorded formats: Discusses both live broadcasts and recorded interviews, helping readers adapt technique to different production constraints.
• Editing and material handling: Offers direction on how to edit interview material, improving the final narrative and broadcast pacing.
• Written by a practitioner: Authored by an experienced producer and instructor, the book brings field-tested insights rather than abstract theory.

Who It's For

Interviewing for Radio is aimed at students on radio and broadcasting courses, entry-level presenters, producers and course instructors seeking a reliable textbook that covers both technique and the working environment. It works well as required reading for classroom use and as a reference for those learning on the job.

Those looking for advanced academic theory, exhaustive technical schematics for specific equipment models, or a step-by-step manual for modern podcast workflows might need to supplement this book with more specialised or up-to-date resources.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Practical, experience-led advice that translates directly to studio practice.
• Clear coverage of both live and recorded interviewing situations.
• Useful guidance on equipment, recording mechanics and editing material.

Cons

• Not an exhaustive technical manual for every piece of modern equipment, so readers may need additional, current tech references.

Specifications

Our Verdict

Interviewing for Radio is a compact, practice-focused guide that delivers clear instruction for conducting and producing broadcast interviews. Its strength is actionable technique and studio-aware advice, making it good value for students and trainers who want a proven classroom and workplace companion.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does this book cover live broadcast techniques?
Yes, the text includes discussion of live broadcasts as well as recorded interviews and how to adapt technique between formats.

Is it suitable as a course textbook?
Yes, the book is frequently recommended for radio courses and is written to function as a teaching resource.

Will it teach technical equipment setup?
It offers practical guidance on equipment and recording mechanics but is not an exhaustive equipment manual for every modern model.