How to Be a Guest on a Podcast: From Pitch to Podcast
Podcast interviews are today’s backstage pass to a bigger audience, better connections, and more clients. Being booked as a guest on the right podcasting shows can amplify your message and put your expertise in front of people who need it most.
This guide is your playbook on how to be a guest on a podcast. By the time you’re done reading, you’ll know how to get booked as a guest and turn podcast guesting into your next big move.
Let’s get you on that podcast guest list.
How to Become a Guest on a Podcast
Getting yourself booked on a podcast isn’t about luck – it’s all about strategy. You need to show hosts why you’re the right person for their audience. I’ll walk you through the exact steps to identify the right podcasts, craft standout pitches, and land your spot as a guest.
Why podcast guesting works
Podcast interviews are gateways to your ideal audience. Think about it: people listening to podcasts are already tuned in and ready to learn, which means you’re speaking directly to a group of engaged, interested podcast listeners.
Guesting on a podcast can build your credibility, get your name in front of a new audience, and position you as the go-to expert in your space. Every episode is a chance to turn listeners into followers and followers into clients.
Nail your message and offer
Before you pitch yourself to a podcast, you need to know what you bring to the table. What makes you stand out? What’s your expertise? What do you want listeners to take away from your episode?
Maybe you’ve grown a six-figure business from scratch, mastered mindfulness during the chaos, or have a wild backstory that shaped your career. Write down a list of topics you’re passionate about and know it inside out. Your niche is your pitch’s secret sauce.
And don’t forget to know your offer. If someone reaches out after hearing you, what’s the next step? A freebie? A program? A discovery call? Be ready to point them in the right direction.
Prepare your story
Listeners don’t remember lists of facts – they remember stories. Think about a moment in your life or career that captures who you are and why you do what you do.
Maybe it’s the turning point that launched your business. Or the mistake that taught you your most valuable lesson. The goal isn’t to share your whole life story – it’s to give people a glimpse of the human behind the mic.
Set clear goals
Every podcast you guest on should serve a purpose. Are you looking to grow your email list? Attract clients? Build your personal brand?
Set your goals upfront, and you’ll get way more out of each appearance. For example, if your goal is to drive traffic to your website, make sure your call to action points listeners there. If it’s to promote your coaching program, make that the highlight of your conversation.
Show up prepared
Being a great guest starts with preparation. Research the podcast – listen to a few episodes, get a feel for the audience, and understand the host’s style.
Bring ideas that align with the show’s theme and showcase your expertise. The more value you add, the more memorable you’ll be. And don’t forget to check the tech – your mic, lighting, and setup should all be sorted before recording.
Prepared guests stand out. They’re the ones who get invited back and recommended to other hosts.
Build relationships after the show
Your work isn’t done when the episode wraps. Reach out to the host to thank them for the opportunity, share the episode on your platforms, and tag them in your posts. The best podcast guests don’t just show up – they stick around, support the community, and grow their network in the process.
How to Find Podcasts to Be a Guest On
If you want to boost your visibility and attract your ideal clients, you need to find shows that align with your expertise and audience.
Research the right podcasts
Not all podcasts are created equal. Look for shows that align with your expertise and target audience. Tools like Talks, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or Google can help you discover podcasts in your niche. Check the show’s description, listen to a few episodes, and ask:
- Does this podcast speak to my ideal audience?
- Does my expertise fit the show’s tone and topics?
Focus on quality over quantity – one perfect match beats ten random shows.
Use podcast directories
Podcast directories like Podchaser or Listen Notes are like Google for podcasts. You can filter by topics, popularity, or even search by keywords related to your expertise. Although sometimes it’s difficult to identify shows that accept guests and are actively looking for guests.
Join podcast guest networks
There are platforms designed to connect podcast hosts with potential guests – think of it as a matchmaking service. Sites like Talks.co can introduce you to hosts actively looking for experts in your field.
Ask for recommendations
Ask colleagues, friends, or clients if they know of any podcasts that might complement your expertise. Recommendations from trusted sources often lead to high-quality opportunities you won’t find elsewhere.
Scout social media
Social media is a goldmine for finding podcast opportunities. Look for hashtags like #BeaGuest or #FindaGuest on Facebook, LinkedIn, X, or Instagram. You’ll find posts from hosts looking for guests and even discover shows you weren’t aware of.
Check their guest list
Before pitching yourself, dig into the podcast’s guest history. Who have they featured in the past? Are they authors, coaches, or entrepreneurs like you?
If the guest list feels like it would be a good fit, it’s a sign the audience will resonate with your message, and the host is likely open to what you bring to the table.
How to Pitch Podcasts
Pitching podcasts is about showing the host how you can bring value to their listeners. Get that right, and you’ll land those guest spots on great podcasts in no time.
Craft a standout pitch
Your pitch is your ticket in, so make it count. Start by personalizing it. Mention why you love their podcast and how your topic fits their audience. Then, hit them with a clear, compelling pitch:
- Who you are
- Why their audience will care
- What specific value or insight you bring
Keep it concise. Hosts get tons of pitches, so grab their attention quickly.
Example pitch:
“Hi [host’s name], I’m [your name], a [your expertise] who helps [ youraudience] achieve [your value]. I loved your recent episode on [topic], especially when you talked about [specific detail]. I’d love to join you to discuss [your topic] and share actionable tips to help your audience [benefit]. Let me know if that sounds like a fit!”
Personalize your pitch
Show the host you’ve done your homework. Mention a recent episode you enjoyed or why their show caught your attention.
Example:
“I listened to your episode with [guest name] on [topic], and it really hit home for me. I’d love to expand on that discussion with [your topic].”
This tells the host you’re invested in their show – not just using it as a stepping stone.
Share why you’re a great fit
Hosts care about one thing: their listeners. Highlight why your expertise or story aligns with the audience’s interests. What challenges do their listeners face, and how can you help solve them?
Example:
“Your audience is full of coaches looking to grow their businesses, and I specialize in [your specialty]. I’d love to share actionable steps they can use to [specific benefit].”
Use social proof
Podcasts are about building credibility. If you’ve spoken at events, been on other podcasts, or have a strong online presence, mention it. Share links to past interviews, your website, or a social media profile that highlights your work. Even if you’re new, a few testimonials or relevant achievements can boost your chances.
Example:
“I’ve been featured on [podcast name] and [event name], where I spoke about [topic]. Those audiences really resonated with [key point], and I think your listeners would, too.”
Keep it short and personal
Keep your pitch to four to six sentences max. Make it clear and to the point, but don’t forget to let your personality shine through.
Example:
“Hi [host’s name], I’m [your name], a coach helping [audience] achieve [benefit]. I loved your recent episode with [guest] on [topic]. I’d love to share my take on [your topic], especially how it applies to [audience’s problem]. Let me know if it’s a fit – I’d be happy to send over more info!”
Follow up
Didn’t hear back? No problem. Wait a week or two, then send a polite follow-up. Keep it light and friendly – hosts are busy, and a gentle nudge can get you back on their radar.
Example:
“Hi [host’s name], just wanted to follow up on my email about being a guest on your show. I know you’re busy, so no worries if it’s not the right time. Let me know if you’d like me to resend any details.”
How to Get Invited on a Podcast as a Guest
Do you want to know how to be a guest on a podcast without chasing down every opportunity? It starts with making yourself impossible to ignore. Here’s how:
Show your expertise
Hosts want guests who know their stuff. Share your expertise by posting content that solves real problems for your audience. General advice doesn’t stand out. The more specific you are, the more likely someone will think, “This person would be perfect for my show.”
Grow your online presence
Make sure your website, LinkedIn, and social profiles clearly show what you’re all about. Start by optimizing your bio. Highlight your area of expertise and how you help people. Throw in a bit of personality – it makes you memorable.
Get featured on smaller podcasts
If you’re new to podcast guesting, start with smaller shows. They’re often looking for fresh voices and are more open to giving newcomers a shot. Plus, it’s a great practice to refine your message and get comfortable behind the mic.
Network with hosts
Building relationships goes a long way. Engage with podcast hosts on social media – comment on their posts, share their episodes, or send a genuine message about how their content helped you.
Make booking you easy
If a host is interested, don’t make them jump through hoops to book you. Have a simple process in place:
- Create a speaker one sheet with your bio, topics you can speak on, and links to past appearances (if you have them).
- Set up a scheduling tool like Calendly to handle the back-and-forth of booking times.
Use your content to catch their eye
Think of your content as your audition tape. If you’ve got a unique take on a topic, record a quick video or write a post that showcases it. Share it on platforms where podcast hosts hang out.
You never know who’s watching. A strong piece of content can make someone think, “I need this person on my show.”
How Much Do Podcast Guests Get Paid?
When it comes to getting paid, the answer isn’t always straightforward. Here’s what you need to know:
What to expect
Most podcasts don’t pay their guests. Many shows operate on tight budgets, and the value exchange comes from the exposure you get to their audience. But if you’re a well-known expert or bring something unique to the mic, some podcasts may offer a fee – especially for big-name shows or ones backed by brands with solid budgets.
Tips for negotiating a fee
If payment is a possibility, keep it simple and professional. Here’s how to approach it:
- Ask upfront: Don’t wait until after you’ve agreed to be on the show to discuss fees. Be clear but polite.
- Explain your value: Highlight what you bring to the table – whether it’s your audience, expertise, or unique insights.
- Be flexible: If they can’t offer money, ask about other perks like promo opportunities, links in their show notes, or social media shoutouts.
Know when a podcast is worth it
Not every podcast is the right fit. Before saying yes, ask yourself:
- Does this show align with my goals?
- What’s the show’s reach?
- What’s your time worth?
How Much Does It Cost to Be a Guest on a Podcast?
While many shows are happy to have you on because of your expertise, some may charge for the opportunity.
Some podcasts charge
Certain podcasts have built a large, loyal audience, and they’ve invested in creating high-quality content. Charging guests for a spot helps them keep the show running.
These paid opportunities are often reserved for podcasts with a specific audience that matches your niche or high-value platforms with substantial reach.
Weigh the costs
Before you pay to be a guest, ask yourself:
- Is this audience my ideal market?
- Do their listeners take action? (Think downloads, inquiries, or bookings).
- What’s the ROI?
What to budget for
Even free opportunities come with costs. You’ll need to budget for:
- Preparation: Research the show and tailor your talking points.
- Recording: Some podcasts require high sound quality, so you might need a good mic or rent a studio.
- Promotion: After the episode airs, sharing it with your audience takes time and effort.
Offer value to avoid paying for a spot
When you bring fresh insights, engaging stories, or a strong connection with the audience, many hosts will jump at a chance to feature you – no fee involved.
Think about what you can offer:
- A unique perspective that aligns with their listeners’ interests.
- A proven track record in your field.
- Promotion of the episode to your own audience
Sponsored guest opportunities
If you’re open to investing in podcast guesting but want more control, consider exploring sponsorship options. This usually looks like a hybrid approach where you’re both a guest and a sponsor. You’ll get airtime for your story while also promoting your product or service directly to their audience.
Ready to Be Heard?
When you discover how to be a guest on a podcast, it can open doors you didn’t even know existed. It’s your chance to share your story, connect with new audiences, and build credibility in a way that feels natural.
If you’re ready to land your next podcast guest spot and want to make the process easier, check out Talks. It’s your shortcut to connecting with the right podcasts and getting booked faster.
