Podcast Summary: MarTech Podcast™ – "How Do You Get a Company Executive to Say Something Quotable in Their First Recording Session?"

Host: Benjamin Shapiro
Guest: Benji Block, Founder & CEO, Signature Series
Air Date: November 19, 2025

Episode Overview

This episode of the MarTech Podcast focuses on the art and technique of guiding company executives to deliver memorable, quotable soundbites during their first podcast recording session. Host Benjamin Shapiro is joined by Benji Block, founder and CEO of Signature Series, as they share practical strategies, personal experiences, and lighthearted banter around helping guests shine on the mic—especially when nerves and inexperience are at play.

Key Discussion Points & Insights

1. The Challenge of the First Take (01:14)

• Nerves are normal: Even highly experienced or articulate executives tend to deliver subpar soundbites on the very first try due to nerves.

• No natural experts: It’s rare for someone, no matter their experience, to deliver a perfectly quotable line in their first take.

  “Even the best communicators will not be able to say it amazing on… on the very first recording. Nerves just take over. I’ve never seen someone be an expert the first time.”
  — Benjamin Shapiro (01:38)

2. The Iterative Recording Approach (01:26)

• Encouraging multiple takes: Instead of relying on the first attempt, the host recommends recording the soundbite several times.

• Identifying the hook: Listen carefully to the executive’s answer, pick out the most compelling phrase or statement, and then coach them to repeat or lead with that in a re-recording.

• Positive reinforcement: Maintaining encouragement throughout the process builds confidence and fosters a better final result.

  “You’re going to try to find a hook in the first time they say it and say the most interesting thing you said was that sentence. I want you to say that sentence first and then you’re going to record it again and you’re going to be encouraging the whole time through…”
  — Benjamin Shapiro (01:29)

3. Guest Banter & Humor (02:01)

• Benji’s playful interruption: When Ben asks Benji Block the same question, Benji humorously claims expert immunity.

• Meta moment: Ben suggests to their editor, Tyler, to keep this exchange in the final cut, adding authenticity and relatability.

  “No, see, Ben, it doesn’t apply to me. I’ve done this long enough. I’m an expert now.”
  — Benji Block (02:10)

  “All right, Tyler, our editor, please leave that in.”
  — Benjamin Shapiro (02:14)

Memorable Quotes

• “Even the best communicators will not be able to say it amazing on… on the very first recording. Nerves just take over. I’ve never seen someone be an expert the first time.”
  (Benjamin Shapiro, 01:38)

• “You’re going to try to find a hook in the first time they say it and say the most interesting thing you said was that sentence. I want you to say that sentence first and then you’re going to record it again…”
  (Benjamin Shapiro, 01:29)

• “No, see, Ben, it doesn’t apply to me. I’ve done this long enough. I’m an expert now.”
  (Benji Block, 02:10)

Timestamps for Important Segments

• 01:14 – 01:20 — Discussing why the first take is rarely the best
• 01:26 – 01:45 — Walkthrough of the iterative coaching approach for executives
• 02:01 – 02:14 — Humorous exchange and behind-the-scenes banter

Takeaways

• Preparation and coaching are essential when recording executives for the first time. Getting a memorable quote often requires multiple takes and feedback.
• Encouragement and a relaxed atmosphere can make a significant difference in the quality of what guests say.
• A little humor goes a long way in making the process enjoyable and authentic for everyone involved.

Guest Contact Info:
Benji Block’s LinkedIn and company info can be found in the show notes or at Signatureseries Co.

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