Conversational Strategies in One Episode of How Did I Get Here by Dive Studios Podcast

Abstract

The study examined conversational strategies used in Episode 34 of the Dive Studios podcast, entitled Are We Narcissists? A qualitative descriptive approach was applied to analyze utterances produced by Jae and Alexa. Data were collected through documentation, repeated observation, transcription checking, note-taking, and classification using Coates’s conversational strategy framework. The findings revealed six strategies: minimal responses, hedges, tag questions, questions, directives, and swearing and taboo language. Compliments were not identified. Minimal responses expressed agreement and encouraged continuation. Hedges reduced certainty and softened sensitive judgments. Tag questions requested confirmation and supported interpersonal alignment. Questions obtained information, encouraged explanation, and developed topics. Directives managed speaking roles and guided conversational movement. Swearing conveyed shock and emotional intensity. The findings demonstrate conversational strategies supported cooperation, politeness, topic organization, mutual understanding, and audience engagement within natural informal podcast interaction between both hosts during the episode.