20 Best Ways to Find Podcast Guests Your Listeners Will Love
You’ve got the mic, the platform, and the audience – but let’s face it, when you’re trying to find podcast guests, it can feel a bit like Mission Impossible. Trust me, I’ve been there.
After interviewing over 400 people, I realized how tricky it can be to connect with the right voices – so I created Talks. It’s a platform designed to make finding expert guests across different niches as easy as grabbing your next cup of coffee.
In this article, I’ll share the best ways to find podcast guests who’ll amplify your show and keep your listeners coming back for more. From leveraging your network to using online tools to find a potential podcast guest and reaching out to industry leaders, we’ll cover it all.
Let’s get started and make your guest lineup one to remember.
20 Best Ways to Find Podcast Guests
Booking podcast guests is like building the dream team – you need the right players who’ll bring their A-game. Whether it’s someone who’s got the crowd-pleasing charisma of Messi or the sharp insights of a coach in the locker room, a great guest can score big with the audience.
Here’s how to find potential podcast guests who’ll knock it out of the park (or the pitch).
1. Connect with experts in your niche
Speed: Moderate
Ease: Moderate
Start by scouting your niche for a potential podcast guest. Who’s giving keynotes? Who’s publishing the articles everyone’s sharing? These are your targets.
For instance, if you’re running a business podcast, someone like Mike Michalowicz, author of Profit First, would make a fantastic guest for your podcast interview. Find them through websites, LinkedIn profiles, or recent speaking gigs.
2. Leverage your network for guest recommendations
Speed: Moderate
Ease: Easy
Your network is like your squad on the field – it’s there to support you. Past guests, mates, colleagues, even your barber (you never know) – ask around for intros to help you find a guest for your show. A simple “Who do you know that would crush it on my podcast?” can lead to gold.
3. Use social media
Speed: Fast
Ease: Moderate
Search hashtags in your niche like #LookingForPodcastGuests, #FindAGuest, or #BeAGuest. Scroll through comments and invite the kind of guest with strong opinions on the topic they’re debating. And look for posts from content creators that make you stop and think, “That’s exactly the kind of energy I want on my podcast.”
4. Use platforms and directories
Speed: Fast
Ease: Easy
Platforms like Talks (which I built because finding guests shouldn’t feel like running a marathon) are tailor-made for connecting with experts across different niches.
Other directories and platforms let you filter by topic, experience, or even location. It’s like having a cheat sheet for your scouting report – making it easier to find podcast guests who match your vibe and audience.
5. Engage with authors, speakers, and industry leaders
Speed: Slow
Ease: Moderate
Authors and speakers are like seasoned professionals – they have stories podcast listeners love, the polished delivery, and usually a knack for sparking conversation. Keep an eye out for book launches, TEDx talks, or conference lineups. For example, Brene Brown, whose TEDx talk on vulnerability went viral, would be a dream guest for many shows.
6. Join podcasting communities
Speed: Fast
Ease: Moderate
Facebook groups, Reddit threads, and podcast forums are packed with podcasters and guests looking to connect. Join groups like Talks Connect or subreddits like r/podcasting and pitch your show to find people worth interviewing.
7. Tap into your audience
Speed: Moderate
Ease: Moderate
Your podcast listeners might know someone perfect for your podcast – or even be ideal guests on your podcast themselves. Add a quick call-to-action in your episodes or newsletters asking for recommendations.
8. Partner with co-hosts or guest hosts
Speed: Moderate
Ease: Easy
If you’ve worked with co-hosts or guest hosts in the past, they can introduce you to new guests. Collaboration creates a natural flow of potential connections.
9. Attend industry events and conferences
Speed: Slow
Ease: Moderate
Events are a great way to find potential guests in action. For example, Web Summit attracts top tech innovators who might be perfect for a tech podcast. There’s also Tonight’s Conversation: Live & Uncut, where they answer podcast interview questions straight from the audience.
10. Search for guests on YouTube
Speed: Moderate
Ease: Moderate
YouTube is a treasure trove of experts actively engaging audiences. Search by topics relevant to your show, watch a few videos, and reach out to the creators who stand out.
11. Research guest appearances on other podcasts
Speed: Moderate
Ease: Moderate
If someone has been a guest on a similar show, they’re more likely to say yes to yours. Use a podcast app like Listen Notes to track down their appearances.
12. Keep an eye on LinkedIn articles
Speed: Slow
Ease: Hard
Thought leaders often publish articles on LinkedIn. Use this as a starting point to discover experts and reach out with a thoughtful pitch for a new podcast episode.
13. Work with publicists or agencies
Speed: Moderate
Ease: Easy
PR agencies represent clients who are eager for exposure. Build relationships with publicists in your niche – they can provide a steady lineup of guest options.
14. Feature up-and-comers
Speed: Slow
Ease: Easy
Everyone wants to feature big names, but you’ll find that rising stars often bring fresh energy, and you’ll get new perspectives. Look for creators making waves in your niche.
15. Use X Lists
Speed: Slow
Ease: Moderate
X lists let you curate a feed of relevant accounts. Build a list of thought leaders or industry voices and keep an eye on their activity. You can even read what others are saying in their threads and spot someone in the conversation who would be a perfect fit for your show.
16. Check out conference speaker lineups
Speed: Fast
Ease: Moderate
Big conferences often showcase the best and brightest in your niche. Visit the websites of industry events like Podcast Movement or INBOUND, and browse their speaker lists. Many speakers are open to appearing on your podcast to continue spreading their message.
17. Leverage alumni networks
Speed: Slow
Ease: Moderate
If you went to university or a professional training program, your alumni network could include potential guests. Check out alumni directories or LinkedIn groups to meet potential guests and expand your search.
18. Explore Amazon’s author pages
Speed: Moderate
Ease: Moderate
Browse the author pages of recently published books in your niche. If they’ve written something that matches your podcast, they’re likely to be interested in sharing their ideas and come on your podcast.
19. Search Medium for writers
Speed: Slow
Ease: Moderate
Medium is filled with articles from experts in countless fields who would be a perfect podcast guest. Search for writers covering your niche and pitch them for a guest spot.
20. Ask other podcasters for referrals
Speed: Moderate
Ease: Easy
Fellow podcasters understand the struggle of finding great guests. Ask your previous podcast guests and trade recommendations of interested guests – it’s a win-win strategy to look for podcast guests.
What is a Podcast Guest?
A podcast guest is like your impact player – someone who steps in, brings their unique flair, and leaves your audience wanting more.
Whether it’s a life coach who’s cracked the code on time management or an entrepreneur who’s taken an idea from a napkin sketch to a thriving business, quality podcast guests can make your podcast episode an unforgettable one.
Benefits of featuring guests on your show
Finding guests for your podcast is more than just about mixing things up – it’s a power move for your podcast’s growth. Here’s why:
- Credibility boost: Podcasts with guests who are respected experts signal to your audience that you’re serious about delivering value.
- Fresh content: Podcast guests for your show introduce topics and angles you might not have covered, keeping your podcast episodes interesting.
- Audience growth: Podcast guests often promote their episodes to their own followers, bringing new listeners to your show.
- Networking: Podcast guests worth interviewing expand your professional circle, opening doors for future collaborations.
Examples of impactful podcast guests
Potential guests for your podcast come in all shapes and sizes. Find interesting people – a bestselling author sharing the backstory of their latest book, a life coach breaking down the habits of top performers, or an industry leader giving insider tips you won’t find anywhere else.
Barack Obama on WTF with Marc Maron
In this episode on WTF with Mac Maron, America’s 44th president, Barrack Obama, discussed topics ranging from his early life and political journey to pressing issues like race relations and gun violence in America. He shared personal anecdotes, including his experiences as a community organizer and his reflections on fatherhood.
Elon Musk on The Joe Rogan Experience
Elon Musk’s appearance on Joe Rogan’s podcast was a deep dive into the mind of one of the world’s most innovative entrepreneurs and easily became one of Joe’s most-watched episodes. They discussed Musk’s ventures, including Tesla, Neuralink, X, and Space X, his vision for the future, and his thoughts on artificial intelligence space exploration.
Sara Blakely on How I Built This with Guy Raz
Founder and CEO of SPANX, Sara Blakely built a billion-dollar empire from her innovative shapewear brand. On her guest appearance on How I Built This with Guy Raz, Sara discussed the challenges and triumphs of building a billion-dollar brand from scratch, offering valuable lessons on resilience, creativity, and the importance of believing in oneself.
What is Podcast Guesting?
Podcast guesting is a powerful tool for expanding your reach and building meaningful connections. When done right, having guests on your show can create deeper conversations and deliver fresh perspectives that captivate your audience.
Do You Need Guests for Your Podcast?
Not every podcast needs a guest. Some podcast hosts thrive on solo episodes where the host can deeply explore their own thoughts and ideas. However, if your goal is to add value to your podcast from multiple perspectives or build collaborations, guest interviews are a no-brainer.
How to Find Podcast Guests Right For Your Show
Finding great podcast guests isn’t about grabbing the biggest name you can find. It’s about adding potential guests for your show that resonate with your audience and fit the vibe. You want guests who’ll keep your listeners engaged and coming for more – from experts, storytellers, or industry leaders.
Questions to ask potential guests
Not every guest will be a good fit, even if they seem impressive on paper. Ask yourself these questions before locking in a guest:
- Do they have a fresh perspective or unique story to share?
- Have they been on other podcasts? If so, how did they perform?
- Can they engage and communicate clearly without being overly self-promotional?
Search for potential podcast guests who know how to provide value to your listeners instead of just talking about their achievements. Listen to their previous interviews or check their social media to get a sense of their tone and expertise.
Where to Find Podcast Guests
Finding podcast guests isn’t about luck – it’s about knowing where to look. Whether you’re after industry professionals, inspiring storytellers, or niche experts, there are plenty of ways to help you find new guests.
Online communities and forums
Start with the online hubs where your ideal guests hang out. LinkedIn groups, Facebook communities, Reddit threads, or even Slack and Discord channels can be hot spots for talent. Join conversations, share your podcast’s mission, and invite people who stand out. When you show genuine interest, people are more likely to say yes.
Networking events
Conferences and networking events are great ways to reach potential podcast guests. Keep an ear out for speakers who bring in new and interesting insights, and don’t be shy about introducing yourself.
Pro tip: panels and Q&A sessions often reveal hidden gems who are experts but not overexposed.
If you’re attending virtually, don’t skip the chat box – it’s a surprisingly effective way of finding podcast guests.
How to Select the Best Podcast Guests
Not every guest is a good guest. Some might have an impressive resume but lack the spark to captivate your audience. Here’s how to filter through the options and land guests who bring real value and impact to your show.
Qualities of a great podcast guest
A great guest knows their stuff but also knows how to connect. Look for people who:
- Share valuable insights without fluff
- Are comfortable with storytelling
- Can speak clearly and with energy
Bonus points if they’ve been on podcasts before and understand the flow of a good interview.
Red flags to watch out for when choosing guests
Be cautious of guests who:
- Only want to promote their products or services
- Struggle to communicate their ideas concisely
- Come across as overly rehearsed or robotic
- Refuse to sign a podcast guest release form
Your audience will pick up on authenticity – or the lack of it.
How to Get Podcast Guests on Your Show
Once you’ve found the perfect guests, it’s time to reach out. First impressions matter, so your invitation needs to stand out. Here’s how to approach it.
Craft the perfect guest invitation message
Keep it short, clear, and personal. Mention why you’re inventing them specifically, what your show is about, and how they’ll add value to your audience. Flattery helps, but keep it genuine.
Example:
Hi [Name],
I came across your talk on [specific topic], and I think your perspective would be a great fit for my podcast, [Podcast Name]. We focus on [audience’s interest], and I’d love to feature your expertise on an upcoming episode. Let me know if you’re interested, and we can set up a time that works for you!
Follow up without being pushy
If you don’t hear back, don’t stress. People are busy. Send a polite follow-up a week later, and keep it friendly. Something as simple as “Just following up to see if this might interest you” can do the trick.
Do Podcast Guests Get Paid?
The question of paying podcast guests can get a bit tricky. Some shows don’t offer paid appearances, while others treat it as a standard practice. The good news? There’s no one-size-fits-all rule here – it’s all about what works best for you and your podcast.
Alternatives to paying guests
If money’s tight or you haven’t begun to monetize your podcast, you can offer other perks. Share the episode widely, highlight their expertise on your platforms, or even throw in a shoutout to their latest project. Many guests value exposure and cross-promotion as much (if not more) than cash.
Podcast Guest Finder
Platforms like Talks are designed to make finding podcast guests straightforward. Talks connect you with experts, speakers, and thought leaders who fit your niche, cutting out the guesswork.
Other resources to find podcasters and potential guests include Podmatch and Matchmaker.fm, which help you find potential guests and hosts. But if you want a curated experience, Talks should be your first stop to help you find podcast guests.
Tips for standing out
The more specific you are, the better. Instead of saying you’re looking for “business experts,” try “entrepreneurs who’ve grown a business to $1M+ in revenue.” The clearer you are about your ideal guest, the faster you’ll get guests on your podcast.
Time to Score Big
Building a podcast with standout guests is more than just filling airtime – it’s about crafting episodes that leave a lasting impact. The right guest can turn a casual listener into a loyal fan, bringing new perspectives and high energy to your show.
And remember, finding the perfect guest doesn’t have to feel like chasing a loose ball in the final minutes of the match. It just takes a bit of research, some outreach, and a whole lot of authenticity.
Ready to find podcast guests who can bring their A-game? Create your free Talks profile today to kick-start your search. Your next winning guest is just a click away.
