If you’re looking to find a step-by-step guide on how to get on podcasts, you’re reading the right article.
Being a guest on other podcasts is one of the best ways to grow your audience and reach more people.
When you talk about your topic on someone else’s podcast, you’re connecting with an audience that already loves listening to podcasts. If the podcast is in your niche, you can share helpful and interesting ideas that make listeners curious about your show. They get to hear your voice, your style, and your personality before they even visit your podcast.
If they find what you’re saying valuable or entertaining, they’re just a click or two away from subscribing to your show.
But it’s not as simple as sending an email saying, “Hey, can you interview me?” Keep reading this article to understand how to make this approach work.
Key Points
- Research podcasts that align with your expertise and message to target the right audience effectively.
- Create an engaging bio, maintain active social media, and share content that showcases your expertise to attract podcast hosts.
- Tailor your pitch for each podcast, highlighting your unique value and why you’d be a great guest for their audience.
- Use your podcast appearances to create blog posts, social media clips, or videos, maximizing your reach and impact.
- Practice your key points, stay flexible, and let your personality shine during the interview for a memorable guest experience.
What Does It Mean to Get on Podcasts?
Getting on podcasts means being invited as a guest on a podcast episode. This gives you a chance to share your story, expertise, or thoughts with the podcast’s audience. It’s often used as a way to promote yourself or your brand to new listeners.
I still remember the first time I pitched myself to a podcast. The host was a well-known name in the marketing world, and I was nervous as I hit “send” on my email pitch. I had always believed in the power of storytelling, but until then, I had only shared my knowledge through blogs and social media.
Here are the key points about getting on podcasts:
- Guest Appearance: You’re not the host but are invited as a guest to be interviewed.
- Exposure to a New Audience: It helps you reach people who already listen to that podcast.
- Marketing Strategy: Many people use podcast guest spots to build brand awareness and credibility.
- Pitching Process: To get on podcasts, you need to find the right ones, contact the host with a pitch about why you’d be a great guest, and prepare for the interview.
For brands, it’s a unique way to humanize your message, establish credibility, and reach a targeted group of listeners who might be interested in your products or services.
What is the Benefit of appearing on Podcasts?
Getting on a podcast is a great way to grow your brand by reaching new people in a personal and engaging way. It helps you show your expertise, connect with potential customers, and promote your brand naturally on podcasts that fit your audience.
Being on a podcast felt like a whole new experience, an opportunity to connect directly with listeners through my voice. That first appearance not only boosted my confidence but also brought more visitors to my website and new clients. It made me realize that podcasts aren’t just a platform, they’re a way to build stronger connections with an audience.
Here’s how podcasts can boost brand exposure:
- Reach a New Audience: Podcasts let you connect with people who are already interested in topics related to your niche, giving your brand more visibility.
- Show Your Expertise: By sharing helpful tips or insights, you show listeners that you’re knowledgeable and trustworthy in your field.
- Build Personal Connections: The audio format feels more personal, helping you connect with listeners on a deeper level and earn their loyalty.
- Guest Appearances: Being a guest on relevant podcasts introduces your brand to its audience, which can bring in new customers.
- Repurpose Content: Use your podcast appearance to create blog posts, social media content, or video clips, spreading your message further.
- Targeted Marketing: Choosing podcasts that match your audience ensures your message reaches the right people, increasing your impact.
In summary, getting on podcasts allows you to speak directly to the podcast’s audience about topics you’re knowledgeable about, thereby promoting your brand. By sharing your expertise with a targeted audience, you can build trust, grow your reach, and leave a lasting impression.
Don’t forget that podcast hosts Want the Best Guests, and how can you selected? Here’s How to Stand Out.
How to Get Invited to Appear on Podcasts
Podcast hosts can be quite selective, and it’s easy to see why. With so many people moving online, podcasts have become a popular way to reach new audiences and grow visibility. As a result, hosts are flooded with emails from potential guests, making it harder to grab their attention.
So, how do you stand out? It starts way before you send that email. Your first impression doesn’t come from your pitch alone, it comes from who you are online. Podcast hosts will look you up to see if you’re a good fit for their audience. They want guests who understand their listeners, can explain their expertise clearly, and have some level of online presence (the more active, the better).
After being a guest on over a dozen podcasts and seeing the impact, I’ve learned how to pitch successfully and make every interview count. If you want to grow your brand, here’s a step-by-step guide based on what I’ve learned.
#1. Build a Strong Online Presence to Attract Podcast Hosts
Make sure you have a professional and active online presence. This includes having a simple but well-designed website, active social media accounts, and a clear, engaging bio that highlights your skills and expertise. Share short videos or audio clips of yourself online so podcast hosts can see what you’d be like as a guest. Keep your accounts updated with regular posts to show you’re active and relevant in your industry.
#2. Find the Right Podcasts for Your Message
Take time to research podcasts that match your expertise or the message you want to share. Create a list of podcasts that seem like a good fit. Listen to a few episodes of each one to understand their tone, topics, and audience. This will help you know if the podcast aligns with your goals.
Look at the podcast’s show notes for details about their guests and topics. Focus on podcasts that feature people with skills or messages similar to yours. This increases your chances of getting invited as a guest since you fit their content style.
Some Popular Tech Podcasts to Explore:
- General: Entrepreneurs on Fire, The Tim Ferriss Show, How I Built This
- Legal Tech: Technically Legal, LegalTech Matters
- Health Tech: The Healthtech Podcast, Medtech Talk
- Fintech: Breaking Banks, Fintech Beat
- EdTech: House of #EdTech, The Shake Up Learning Show
- AgriTech: Voices of the Valley, Precision Points
- Retail Tech: Total Retail Tech Insights, RetailTechPodcast
- PropTech: The Proptech Podcast, Proptech Espresso
- InsurTech: The Insurance Technology Podcast, The Insurtech Leadership Podcast
- FemTech: FemTech Focus, Legally Femtech
Use platforms like Apple Podcasts to search for shows in your field. Check their show notes for contact information to reach out directly to the hosts of podcasts that match your expertise.
Choosing the right podcasts to pitch is the first step to success. You want to connect with shows that match your expertise and have an audience that will benefit from your message. To make it easier, I’ve put together a simple checklist below.
This checklist will guide you through the process of finding and researching podcasts that are the perfect fit for your goals.
#3. Follow the Podcast on Social Media and Interact with Its Posts
If you want to be a guest on a podcast, start by following it on social media and engaging with its content. Liking, sharing, and commenting on their posts can help you catch the attention of the hosts. It shows that you’re a genuine fan of their show, making them more likely to invite you as a guest.
Make sure your social media profiles are professional before reaching out. Clean up any inappropriate posts or comments on platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn. A polished online presence builds trust and credibility.
#4. Reach Out to the Right Person
If you want to be a guest on a big podcast like The Joe Rogan Experience, it’s not always best to email the host directly. Popular podcast hosts are usually very busy, and their teams often handle guest inquiries.
Start by visiting the podcast’s website to see if there’s a “Contact Us” page or a listed email address. If you can’t find one, search online using “podcast name + contact.”
Timing also matters. Pay attention to when the podcast might be looking for new guests by following their updates closely.
Before you reach out, do some homework on the podcast. Look into the types of guests they invite and the topics they discuss. The better you understand their style and audience, the higher your chances of getting booked.
#5. Explore podcast booking services
There are websites like matchmaker.fm and podcastguests.com that help connect podcasters with potential guests. These platforms make it easy to find opportunities to be featured on podcasts. They offer tools like automatic matching, free and paid options, and the chance to list yourself as an expert guest. You can also use them to promote your appearances on other podcasts.
These services are especially useful if you’re just getting started, as they help you gain visibility. By guesting on podcasts through these platforms, you can build trust, grow your influence, and establish yourself as a thought leader in your field. Simply create a profile with your details, including your podcast and the topics you talk about.
#6. Personalize your pitch for each podcast
When reaching out to podcasts, make your pitch short, clear, and interesting. In just a few sentences, explain who you are, what you do, and why your audience would find you valuable.
Offer something unique that makes you stand out from other potential guests. This could be an exclusive interview, expert insights, or a topic that aligns with their audience’s interests. Highlight your ability to deliver engaging content, your passion for the subject, and how you’ll make the conversation meaningful.
Avoid using the same pitch for every podcast. Instead, tailor your message to fit each show. Research their format, audience, and tone so your pitch shows you understand what they’re about. A well-thought-out pitch increases your chances of getting noticed and invited.
#7. Follow Up
After sending your pitch, don’t forget to follow up. Wait about a week before following up to give them time to see your email in case they missed it.
After you’ve sent a follow-up email, give them some space. Wait at least two weeks before reaching out again. If there’s still no response, you can try one last time.
#8. Be Flexible
Podcast schedules can change, so it’s important to stay flexible. If you can’t commit to a specific time, let the podcast team know and see if they can adjust.
However, being open to recording when it works best for the hosts makes it more likely they’ll say yes to having you as a guest.
#9. Prepare Thoroughly for Your Appearance
Once you’re booked as a guest on a show, preparation is crucial. Expect the host or producers to ask challenging questions, so think ahead and have clear, engaging answers that will connect with the audience.
Preparation also means paying close attention during pre-appearance meetings. Take notes on key details like dates and topics, as these meetings might be your only chance to make a good impression. Listening carefully shows professionalism and helps you stay organized.
Being prepared is more than just answering questions—it’s about using the opportunity to boost your visibility and promote your brand. A well-prepared guest can leave a strong impression and enhance their reputation.
Be ready for surprises. Podcast interviews don’t always follow a script, so stay flexible and prepared for unexpected questions or discussions. If you have specific topics you want to cover, bring them up early to ensure everyone is aligned before the interview starts.
#10. Be ready for follow-ups
After being invited as a guest on a podcast, expect some back-and-forth with the host or producer before your appearance. Be patient—they’re likely busy organizing things but will let you know once everything is set. Then, you can focus on promoting yourself and the podcast.
#11. Be yourself and have fun on the podcast
When it’s time for your podcast appearance, relax and enjoy the chat. This is your moment, so make sure to have fun and make the most of it!
#12. Thank the podcast host afterwards
After a great interview, reach out to thank the host. This helps build a good relationship and keeps you in mind for future opportunities. A simple thank-you email or a shoutout on social media can make a big difference.
#13. Promote the podcast to your audience for greater reach
Share the podcast episode with your audience before and after it goes live! Post about it on social media, send it to your email list, and let your network know. The more listeners you attract, the higher your chances of being invited back as a guest. Promoting the episode also helps you connect with both your audience and the podcast’s listeners, increasing its reach and impact.
A helpful tip: once you’re booked on a show, make an effort to promote your appearance everywhere you can. Tell your contacts, create posts, or even prepare a media kit for the host to use in their promotions.
This not only shows the host that you’re serious about the collaboration but also helps build trust with future podcast hosts. Understanding the audience is key to tailoring your promotion so that your message connects well with everyone listening.
If a podcast usually gets 10,000 views but your episode hits 50,000, the team will likely invite you back for another appearance. Remember, social media success often depends on numbers and visibility.
#14. Keep pitching yourself as a podcast guest
To get booked on more podcasts, you need to keep reaching out and pitching yourself. After a successful appearance, send out proposals to potential hosts and continue networking. The more you pitch, the better your chances of getting invited.
Being a guest boosts your visibility, helps grow your audience, and opens doors to more guest appearances, creating a cycle of growth and opportunities.
Make sure your proposals are clear and tailored to each podcast. Even if you’re not the perfect fit, persistence can pay off. Keep trying, and with consistent effort, you’ll succeed in landing more guest spots.
Reaching out to podcast hosts can feel a little intimidating, but having a great email pitch makes all the difference. To help you get started, I’ve included a simple email template below. It’s designed to grab the host’s attention, show them why you’d be a great guest, and make it easy for them to say yes.
Feel free to customize this template to fit your style and the podcast you’re pitching to!
Here are Some Expert Tips for Pitching on Podcasts
6 Simple Tips for Preparing Your Podcast Pitch
1. Focus on the Right Podcasts: Instead of reaching out to as many podcasts as possible, pick a few that match your interests and audience. A well-targeted pitch saves time and gives you better results.
2. Make Your Pitch Personal: Avoid sending the same message to multiple podcasts. Write a unique pitch for each one. Start by explaining why you like their podcast and why you want to be on it. Tailor everything about yourself to fit their style and audience.
3. Suggest a Topic That Fits Their Audience: Include an idea for a topic you could discuss on the podcast. Even if they don’t use it, it shows you’re serious and willing to contribute value, not just promote yourself.
4. Share Your Previous Experience: If you’ve been a guest on other podcasts, link to those episodes. It shows you’re credible and experienced. While it’s not required, it helps to showcase any past appearances.
5. Follow Up, But Don’t Overdo It: If you don’t hear back after a few days, send a polite follow-up email. If there’s still no response, it’s okay to try one more time, but don’t push too hard. Rejections happen, and it’s part of the process.
6. Keep It Short and Clear: Get straight to the point. In your first paragraph, explain who you are, what you do, and why you’re reaching out. People are busy, so keep your email brief and easy to skim.
Note- When you’re invited to a podcast, share the episode widely with your friends, family, and followers. This benefits both you and the host by reaching a larger audience, and it might even lead to future opportunities.
Tips on How to Prepare for a Podcast Interview
1. Listen to Previous Episodes: Take some time to check out past episodes of the podcast. This helps you understand the show’s style and format, making it easier to fit in and feel more at ease during the interview. The more you know what to expect, the fewer surprises you’ll face.
2. Know Your Topic Well: Make sure you’re confident about the topic you’ll be discussing. Gather all the facts, statistics, or key points you might need and have them handy during the interview. Being well-prepared will help you stay focused and clear.
3. Plan Your Key Messages: Think about the main points or impressions you want to leave with the audience. Practice these ahead of time so they come across clearly during the interview. Don’t worry about sounding too rehearsed, being prepared helps you make a stronger impact.
4. Practice Active Listening: While it’s important to know what to say, remember that podcasts are about having a conversation, not giving a speech. Pay close attention to what the host says and asks. Listen to understand, not just to reply. This helps create a natural, engaging discussion.
Now, 5 Simple Tips for Being a Great Podcast Guest
1. Be on Time: Respect your host’s time by showing up on schedule. First impressions matter! If something unexpected happens and you’re running late, inform the host as soon as possible.
2. Be Yourself: Your host invited you because of who you are—your unique personality, knowledge, or expertise. Stay true to yourself and don’t try to be someone you’re not.
3. Ask for Questions in Advance: If possible, request the questions or topics ahead of time. This allows you to prepare your thoughts without over-rehearsing. Being prepared helps you feel confident during the conversation.
4. Don’t Hesitate to Ask for Clarification: It’s okay to ask the host to repeat or explain a question if you didn’t catch it. Podcast interviews are about having a natural and meaningful conversation, not passing a test.
5. Calm Your Nerves: Feeling nervous is normal, especially if you’re new to podcast interviews. Take a moment to relax, go for a walk, sip some tea, or try deep breathing exercises. Remember, you were invited because you’re the right fit for the show. You’ve got this!
Final Thoughts
Podcasts are the new frontier for getting your message heard and building your brand. With millions of listeners tuning in daily, they offer a unique chance to connect with an audience that truly cares about your expertise or story.
If you’re excited about becoming a guest on podcasts, don’t give up. It might feel tough at first, but with time and effort, you’ll make it happen. While you’re working on it, take the time to learn about the podcasting world and the shows you want to be on.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do guests pay to be on a podcast?
Sometimes guests might pay to be on very famous podcasts, but this isn’t common practice. In general, you shouldn’t pay to be a guest. Podcasting is about collaboration, and you can get invited to shows based on your skills or expertise. Save your money!
What should you include in a podcast guest pitch?
Always include a personal message about why you want to be on that specific podcast. Make it genuine and tailored to their show, so it doesn’t seem like you’re just applying anywhere. Also, share proof of your experience or expertise in the podcast’s topic to show why you’d be a great fit.
Do I need the experience to get on a podcast?
Not necessarily. While experience can help, it’s not always required. If you have valuable insights or a unique perspective, you can still be a guest. Highlight any similar experience, like giving a talk or running a workshop, to show your capability.
Can I appear on multiple podcasts in the same niche?
Yes, and you should! Appearing on many podcasts in your niche helps you build credibility and show listeners that you’re an expert on the topic. It’s a great way to grow your reputation.
Can I get on a popular podcast if I’m new?
It’s possible, but don’t expect it right away. Focus on realistic goals by pitching to mid-level podcasts where your experience matches their audience. As you build your profile, you’ll have a better chance of landing bigger shows.
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