Bestselling Indian author Chetan Bhagat needs no introduction! Over the years Bhagat has donned many hats-- from being an author to columnist to motivational speaker and YouTuber. More recently, he started his podcast titled ‘DeepTalk with Chetan Bhagat’ with Audible. In an interview with us, he talks about his podcast and challenges, and his idea of reinventing himself. Excerpts:
1. What was the inspiration for starting your podcast 'DeepTalk'? How did you come up with the idea of having your talk show?
I am a motivational speaker as well and I reach out to a lot of young Indians. I felt they need more role models in society to get inspired and work towards their goals. Hence, I call achievers from various walks of life and have long, deep conversations with them like they have never had before. In those conversations, a lot of amazing life lessons are revealed for listeners as well as myself.
I love talking to people as well, and my friends often tell me I have a way to get people to open up about their lives. Same has been the feedback of the 'DeepTalk' guests.
2. How was you experience narrating the podcast?
I have had a lot of fun doing it. To learn from unicorn founders, actors, directors – people who have really broken the norm and found success, is such a privilege. The feedback has also been overwhelmingly positive.
3. You have juggled various roles including that of being a banker, bestselling author, motivational speaker, YouTuber, podcaster, etc. What makes you reinvent yourself and try new things?
I think all of us must keep evolving and pushing ourselves out of our comfort zone throughout life. That to me is the secret to a happy, engaged life. To become well-settled, make a lot of money and just chill out, or just keep doing the same thing for decades is not really a great way to remain happy through life. I want to focus on my happiness first above anything else.
4. Were there any challenges that you faced as a podcaster?
Podcasting is a totally new game. For the most part, it is unscripted, apart from a few questions that are determined from research. It’s a long conversation I do, sometimes over two hours. I have to make sure it remains interesting and authentic. To make people come across as interesting to all listening, is quite a challenge.
5. Any tips for people who aspire to become podcasters?
Just find your niche and go for it, there is really no other way. Just do it.
6. Coming to your writings, you recently wrote your thriller '400 Days'. How was your experience of writing in this genre?
'400 Days' is actually my third thriller book, after 'The Girl in Room 105' and 'One Arranged Murder'. I had to learn a lot before attempting this genre, but I really enjoy writing them. These books are not as simple as they seem to be. '400 Days' especially is a multi-layered story told in a simple manner. The reader reviews are excellent, and I think it is my best book.
7. What are you currently reading?
I just finished reading a book called 'Flow' by Mihali Csikzentmihalyi. It is an excellent book talking about when we truly enjoy and lose ourselves in an experience.
8. Lastly, what are you working on next? And when can we expect your next book?
I am working with Audible, on a lot of audio content, because I believe it is the future. I am working with them on audiobooks, audio dramas and podcasts. I am also thinking about what to write next, though nothing is firm yet.
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