Before You Hit Record... Let’s Talk Agreements

Picture this.

You’re invited to a podcast. It sounds aligned, the host seems warm, and you’re excited to share your story. You record the episode, everything goes smoothly… until you stumble on a clip of yourself being used in a paid offer you didn’t approve. Or a carousel on Instagram with your image, your words, and zero credit.

There was no agreement. No discussion of repurposing. No clarity on how your content would be used.

A podcast appearance isn’t just a conversation—it’s a commitment.
One that too many people enter into without clear boundaries, shared expectations, or legal protection.

Let’s be real—there’s a difference between being helpful and being unprotected.

As a producer, I’ve seen both sides:
🎙️ Guests who were blindsided by how their words were used
🎙️ Hosts who lost control of their content—or faced disputes—because nothing was in writing

In both cases, the common thread is this: no contract, no clarity.

When you’re a guest, you’re borrowing someone’s audience. But they’re also borrowing your expertise.
When you’re the host, you’re curating a platform—and every episode is a reflection of your brand.

So why are we still treating podcasting like a handshake deal?

Appearance agreements aren’t about legal red tape—they’re about mutual respect.
They protect both parties and prevent awkward conversations down the line. They define things like:

• How your image or likeness may be used

• What kind of repurposing (reels, ads, promos) is permitted

• If and how you’ll be credited

• The right to opt out of content use if misrepresented

Note: I’m not an attorney, and this isn’t legal advice—just insight from a seasoned producer who’s seen how messy things can get without clear agreements.

So, before you hit record—whether you’re the guest or the host—make sure clarity comes first.

Because visibility without protection?
That’s vulnerability.

3 (Actually, 4) Ways to Protect Your Voice & Your Brand—Before the Mic is On

1. Start with Intentional Agreements
   Whether you’re hosting or guesting, use a simple appearance agreement that outlines how the episode may be used, shared, or repurposed. It doesn’t need to be complicated—it just needs to exist.
   

2. Clarify Repurposing Rights
   Will video clips be used on social? Could your content end up in a paid course? Don’t assume. Ask. Your expertise has value, and clarity avoids conflict later.
   

3. Standardize Your Process
   Create a quick checklist or workflow (HoneyBook, Google Forms, Dubsado, etc.) to ensure contracts, expectations, and permission details are captured consistently with each appearance.
   

4. Need Help Tightening Your System?
   If you're podcasting without a clear content or guest management strategy, let’s fix that.

   🎙️ Book your free Podcast Clarity Call and walk away with next steps tailored to your goals.

And if you’re ready to stop doing this all yourself?
Explore our Remote Podcast Production Services to simplify your workflow and amplify your voice—without the burnout.

Before you hit record—ask yourself: Is this a conversation or a collaboration?

Treat every podcast appearance like a brand partnership. Because it is.
Whether you're in the host seat or the guest chair, you're shaping perception, extending trust, and aligning with someone else's audience, values, and energy.

👉 That means clear expectations.
👉 That means documented boundaries.
👉 That means mutual respect.

You don’t need a 10-page contract. You do need clarity.

1. This movement isn’t just about my voice—it’s about ours.

   If this newsletter spoke to you, forward it to a fellow visionary. Let’s grow together.

2. And if you haven’t grabbed the Time-Saving Podcast Playbook yet, it’s my free gift to help you reclaim your time, simplify your strategy, and finally show up with confidence.

Every time you step behind the mic—whether as a guest or a host—you’re not just having a conversation, you’re building legacy. And legacy deserves protection.

Don’t wait until something goes wrong to put safeguards in place. Think ahead. Lead with clarity. And remember: having boundaries doesn’t make you difficult—it makes you wise.

Protect the brand you’re building, not just from others—but for the future version of you who will thank you for taking the steps now to own your voice, your vision, and your value.

Here’s to showing up smart, not just seen.

Until next time, keep showing up and showing out— Shani Fay