1. Before the Recording

Confirm Your Topic

Make sure you have completed our Guest Release & Information Form and confirmed your proposed topic(s),
key talking points, and any call-to-action you’d like to share with our listeners.

Provide Your Bio & Links

Please send us:

• A short bio (2–4 sentences)
• Your website and/or social media handles
• Any links you’d like included in the show notes (petitions, rescue pages, campaigns, etc.)
• An optional headshot or photo we may use in promotion

Be Aware of Sensitive Content

The Animal Files often covers topics such as animal cruelty, disaster response, and justice cases.
These conversations can be emotional or graphic. Please let us know in advance if there are any
areas you prefer not to discuss on air.

2. Technical Setup

Audio Quality

• Use headphones or earbuds to reduce echo and feedback.
• If possible, use an external microphone for better sound quality.
• Choose a small, quiet room rather than an ample, echoing space.

Internet Connection (for Zoom)

• Use a wired internet connection if you can.
• If on Wi-Fi, sit close to your router.
• Close unnecessary apps and browser tabs to improve stability.

Environment

• Silence phones and notifications.
• Ask others nearby to keep the noise down during the recording.
• Secure pets as much as possible to prevent background sounds—unless they’re part of the show.

Video Setup (if video is used)

• Sit facing a light source so your face is visible.
• Avoid strong backlighting from windows behind you.
• Position your camera at eye level for a natural look.

3. What to Expect During the Recording

Episode Structure

A typical episode may include:

• Off-air welcome and brief tech check
• Host introduction and show opening
• Guest introduction and background
• Main conversation/interview
• Closing thoughts and guest call-to-action

Our Tone & Style

The Animal Files is compassionate, honest, and advocacy-focused. We aim to balance
real-world facts with empathy and practical action for animals.

It’s Okay Not to Be Perfect

We want you to feel comfortable. If you misspeak, lose your place, or want to restart a thought,
just let us know. We edit episodes for clarity and flow.

Emotional and Sensitive Topics

If at any point you need a break or a topic becomes too emotionally difficult, please tell the host
And we will pause or move in another direction.

4. Legal & Content Reminders

To protect you, the animals we discuss, and our organization, please keep in mind:

• Do not share confidential information that you are legally or ethically required to keep private.
• Avoid unsupported accusations or statements about individuals or organizations.
• Be cautious when discussing active investigations, minors, or sealed/legal cases.
• You will be asked to sign a Guest Release, Indemnification, and Non-Disclosure Agreement prior to recording.
  This covers recording consent, use of your name/voice/likeness, and confidentiality for sensitive information.

If you have questions about what you can or cannot say on air, please contact us before your recording session.