Lately, I’ve been asking podcast listeners one simple question: What’s your favorite episode format to listen to?

More and more, the answer I hear is solo episodes. That surprised me at first - so much of podcasting seems built around guest interviews. But the more I thought about it, the more it made sense.

I’ve noticed it in my own habits, too. I used to be all about long-form interviews (favorites were Tim Ferriss and Jordan Harbinger). Now I’m loving short, focused solo episodes.

But as a podcast creator, this format has been intimidating to create. Are you comfortable interviewing others, but when it’s just you and the mic, you’re not sure what to say? You’re not alone.

One thing that helps is having a few go-to solo episode formats. Here are 8 you can try with examples and tips to make them easier to record (and more fun to listen to).

1. Client Case Study

What it is:
Share a recent client success story. Break down their journey, including the problem they faced, how you helped, and the outcome. If a listener is facing a similar issue, this gives them a clear picture of what it’s like to work with you.

Great for: Building trust and showcasing tangible outcomes
Example title: How We Helped a Physician Couple Pay Off $250K in Student Loans and Start Investing
Tip: Use a simple “Problem > Process > Result” structure to keep it clear and focused.

2. Ask Me Anything (AMA)

What it is:
Answer listener-submitted questions about your area of expertise. You can gather questions from emails, social media, client conversations, or sales calls. This is a great way to address what people are already curious about.

Great for: Audience engagement and market research
Example title: AMA: Should I Pay Off My Mortgage Early or Invest the Extra Cash?
Tip: Keep answers short and consider batching 2–3 related questions into one episode.

3. Myth-Busting Industry Misconceptions

What it is:
Take a stand on outdated or misleading beliefs in your field. Share the truth based on your experience and explain why the myth persists. This helps position you as a clear, confident voice in the noise.

Great for: Sparking conversation and differentiating your voice
Example title: Why Budgeting Isn’t the Answer (And What to Do Instead)
Tip: Use bold episode titles to grab attention and encourage curiosity.

4. Behind the Scenes of Your Business

What it is:
Give listeners a peek inside your business. Talk about what’s working, what you’re learning, and how you’re serving clients. This builds connection and transparency.

Great for: Humanizing your brand and building trust
Example title: A Look Inside My Process for Onboarding New Clients
Tip: Share what you’re trying, even if it’s not perfect

5. How-To / Step-by-Step Guide

What it is:
Teach your audience how to solve a specific problem. Outline the steps they need to take and include any common pitfalls to avoid. These episodes are great for delivering real value fast.

Great for: SEO, repurposing, and lead magnets
Example title: A Step-by-Step Plan to Max Out Your Retirement Accounts Before Year-End
Tip: Use bullet points or numbered steps as your script to stay on track.

6. Tool / Resource Deep Dive

What it is:
Share a tool, app, framework, or resource you use with clients. Explain why you like it, how you use it, and who it’s best for. This gives listeners practical value they can use right away.

Great for: Building trust through hands-on recommendations
Example title: Why I Use Asset-Map to Help Clients Visualize Their Finances
Tip: Include a real-life example to show how it works in context.

7. Mini-Workshop or Training

What it is:
Turn a bite-sized version of a client training or workshop into an episode. Help listeners make progress on a small win and give them a taste of your teaching style.

Great for: Lead nurturing and demonstrating expertise
Example title: Build Your Personal Spending Plan in Under 30 Minutes
Tip: Include a downloadable worksheet or call to action for next steps.

8. Lessons from a Book / Podcast / Event

What it is:
Share takeaways from something you’ve read, listened to, or attended, and explain why it matters for your clients. This helps position you as someone who stays sharp and always brings fresh insight.

Great for: Curated thought leadership and connection
Example title: 3 Lessons I Took from Morgan Housel’s Latest Talk on Long-Term Wealth
Tip: End the episode with a reflection question that your audience can apply to their own life.

Try these solo episode formats, and if you need help brainstorming topic ideas, email me at justin@simplepodstudios.com.