🎙️ The “Third Answer” to the Pre-Call Debate
Over the last two weeks, we explored two perspectives on pre-calls:
❌ Skip them entirely. Just book, show up, and get straight to the interview.
✅ Always do them. Pre-calls build trust, improve conversation flow, and create long-term connections.
However, Scott McKay, a veteran podcaster of 18+ years, clarified his approach—which offers a third answer focused on time management and efficiency.
🕒 Scott's Approach: Integrate the Pre-Call Into the Interview Session
Instead of separating a pre-call from the recording, Scott suggests:
✔ Using the first 20-30 minutes of the interview session for warm-up, rapport-building, and structuring the conversation.
✔ Ensuring that everything is fresh in both minds—the key points, the flow, and any technical details.
✔ Avoiding the need for an extra “meeting about a meeting.”
💡 After the interview? Scott recommends 5-10 minutes of post-roll conversation to discuss next steps, future collaborations, and potential introductions—when both the host and guest are in the right mindset.
This balances efficiency with relationship-building while keeping things structured and productive.
🎙️ Would you try this approach? Reply and let us know!