We’re back again with another In the Spotlight feature! I’m here with Melissa DiGianfilippo, Host of Off Deadline. Make sure to check out her show first then come back for our Q&A!
Everyone, welcome Melissa!
Nicole: How did you come by your podcast name?
Melissa: I came up with the name Off Deadline because my podcast focuses on journalists, hosts, and influencers who are usually on deadline delivering the news. This is a chance to talk to them outside of that pressure and get to know them on a more personal level. As someone in PR, it also felt like a natural way to both build and showcase my relationships with the media.
Nicole: Great idea! Why did you decide to start your podcast?
Melissa: I started the podcast for a few strategic reasons. First, video content performs incredibly well across social platforms, so it made sense to lean into that. Second, the concept itself is built around interviewing journalists, which helps me build deeper, more meaningful relationships with them. At the same time, it allows me to show those relationships to current and prospective clients in a very real way. It is both a relationship-building tool and a marketing asset.
Nicole: I’ve definitely heard the same about video. And what a great way to build those relationships. What have you learned about yourself or others through your podcast?
Melissa: I have learned that I really enjoy creating space for people to open up. I look for those moments where someone feels comfortable enough to be vulnerable, and I think that is where the most meaningful conversations happen. I have also realized how much I enjoy doing deep research. I like going beyond surface-level questions and really understanding someone so I can ask more thoughtful, intentional questions.
Nicole: How has your podcast evolved since you first started?
Melissa: The first two seasons were fairly consistent, but going into season three, I am being much more intentional about evolving the format. I have refined my line of questioning to get stronger, more insightful answers, and I have become more comfortable as a host. The overall process has also improved. Everything from how I prep to how I run the conversation feels smoother and more natural now.
Nicole: What’s been the biggest surprise or challenge you’ve experienced while podcasting?
Melissa: One of the biggest surprises has been how much work happens behind the scenes. There is a lot of coordination with scheduling, editing, and promotion. It is not just recording a conversation. I have also had to learn new platforms like YouTube, which has been a challenge but also a really valuable skill set to build.
Nicole: What has been your most memorable episode and why?
Melissa: What stands out most are the episodes where guests open up in a real and unexpected way. Kaylee O’Kelley sharing her experience with divorce and how it impacted her on-air life was incredibly powerful. Catherine Anaya and Javier Soto also had very emotional, honest moments. Those deeper, more personal conversations are always the most memorable.
Nicole: That’s so powerful. How do you prepare for each episode?
Melissa: Preparation is a big part of my process. I start by building a list of potential guests and reaching out with personalized emails. Once they agree, I have them fill out a questionnaire where they share background information and select areas they are open to discussing. From there, I build a full backgrounder with their bio and a loose interview structure. I also do additional research by reviewing past interviews and anything notable from their career. By the time we sit down, I am very prepared, which helps create a more thoughtful and engaging conversation.
Nicole: If you could have a dream guest on your podcast, who would it be and what would you talk about?
Melissa: It would be Oprah. She has been an icon to me since I was young. I remember interning in downtown Chicago and walking past her studio, which always felt surreal. I would love to hear her perspective on everything she has experienced as a journalist and host, and the stories behind some of the biggest moments in her career.
Nicole: She would be a great guest! What major accomplishment or milestone have you been most proud of through your podcast?
Melissa: I am really proud that I have created over a year of consistent video content. That alone is a big accomplishment. I have also grown the YouTube channel to around 250 subscribers, which I am proud of given how niche my audience is. On top of that, the social clips have performed extremely well, which reinforces that the content is resonating.
Everyone, be sure to check out Melissa’s podcast Off Deadline.
