In news, we love a standard sit-down interview. The trouble is, this dynamic isn't always helpful for getting your guests to go off-script and can be one-dimensional for the viewer.

One thing I love about YouTube is the endless inspiration from creators and media publishers who find inventive ways to feature their guests. This creativity pops up mostly in entertainment verticals — think sports, music, fashion — where interviews are woven into broader series. And the view count shows people love it when production teams get creative.

This is a non-exhaustive list of engaging interviewing formats we've spotted that you could adapt or try out in your newsroom.

SubwayTakes

Hop on the famous New York City subway and you might spot Kareem Rahma with his signature sunglasses and a lapel mic clipped onto a MetroCard. In 'SubwayTakes', Rahma asks his guests for their "take" — then instantly declares "100% agree" or "100% disagree." No sitting on the fence allowed.

The result? Playful, spontaneous conversations that sometimes rope in nearby commuters for a true rolling, chaotic roundtable.

The show has travelled to other train lines, including the London Underground —proving that a hot take knows no borders. Episodes come in snackable vertical clips and longer, uncut horizontal versions, with many familiar names.

Fact or Fiction

Wikipedia isn’t always gospel.

Loudwire’s 'Fact or Fiction' lets musicians set the record straight, debunking (or confirming) wild claims from their Wikipedia pages — often with juicy stories thrown in.

Defend Your Career

There's no better way to put fans' burning questions to their idols than to get fans to do it themselves. In this case, we're also talking about ex-fans.

Midnite's 'Defend Your Career' pits Michael Owen against five fans representing the five clubs he played for across a career marked by trophies, injuries and controversies.

The 'expert versus everyday person' format is a classic — think Jubilee's hit 'Surrounded' debate series, putting outspoken voices like Jordan Peterson, Mehdi Hasan and Piers Morgan against a room of 20 critics.

Stephen Hendry’s Cue Tips

Snooker legend Stephen Hendry recently joined the bandwagon of retired sports professionals launching content channels. But this is not just another ex-footballer's podcast.

Hendry's YouTube channel 'Cue Tips' is an interesting blend of interviews, game-improving tips, and behind-the-scenes peeks over a few frames.

Hendry talks to old rivals, pros from other sports and media personalities who fancy themselves handy with a cue. The result: a fun crossover of sports and stories.

Ten Essentials

Who doesn't love a listicle? Hell, you're reading one right now.