Do Podcast Guests Get Paid? 23 Ways to Monetize Your Appearance
You’ve probably wondered at some point, “Do podcast guests get paid?”
It’s a fair question, especially when you’re trying to figure out if a podcast is worth your time or if you should be chasing that podcast appearance.
I’ve had the chance to do and give over 400 interviews with some of the top experts in nearly every field, and let me tell you – there’s a lot to gain when you know how to leverage a podcast right.
In this guide, we’ll break down what you need to know about podcast guest appearances – how they work, when you might get paid, and what other rewards you could be earning just by getting your name out there.
Stick with me if you’re ready to set yourself up to win every time you step behind the mic.
Do Guests Get Paid on Podcasts?
Not all podcasts pay their guests, but that doesn’t mean there’s no value in showing up. Think of it like a soccer match – you might not always get the trophy, but you’re building your presence on the field, showing your skills, and expanding your reach.
Exceptions: When guests receive payment
More successful podcasts, with massive followings and bigger budgets, often offer payments for someone to be a guest. These shows monetize their podcast, have millions of downloads, and have major sponsors behind them.
If you’re invited to be a guest on a podcast like this, there’s a good chance the host can offer you a fee to be a guest on their show.
Are Podcast Guests Paid?
The vast majority of podcasts aren’t paying their guests. Here are a few reasons why:
- Small budgets: Many podcasters are just starting out or running a solo show with minimal resources. They want top-quality content but can’t always pay for it, so most podcast guests appear for free.
- Exposure over payment: For most podcasters, the real value is in getting a guest on the show with expertise that draws in listeners. Think of it like a manager picking a star player who will keep the fans coming back for more.
But, when you step into the podcasting world, you’re getting access to something incredibly powerful: an audience that you wouldn’t normally reach.
When you know how to do a podcast interview right, the exposure is priceless. It’s like making a great play in a big match – everyone notices, and suddenly, you’re on their radar. And guess what? When you appear on podcasts, it can help significantly with sales.
Factors influencing guest payments
While most podcasts don’t pay guests, several factors could determine if a host compensates you:
- Your expertise: If you bring valuable insights as a guest on someone else’s show, hosts may offer payment or perks.
- Show’s audience size: Larger shows with bigger budgets are more likely to pay, but even smaller shows may offer compensation if you’re a good match.
- Effort involved: More prep, the best software for podcast recording and editing, or heavy promotion might mean more compensation when you appear on a podcast.
How Do Podcast Guests Get Paid?
You’re probably wondering, “Do podcast guests actually get paid?” The short answer is: not always. But here’s the good news: there are multiple benefits of being a podcast guest that pay off, and it’s not all about a direct paycheck.
The best part? It’s repeatable. The more you get out there, the more doors open. And those doors might just lead to more paying opportunities down the road.
Building your brand and authority
Being a podcast guest is a powerful way to expand your reach. By stepping onto someone else’s platform, you can:
- Reach more people: Each appearance connects you with a new audience, potentially bringing in your next clients or customers.
- Boost your credibility: Regular appearances help position you as an authority, building trust and paving the way for paid opportunities later.
Networking opportunities
Podcasts open doors to valuable connections with other hosts, experts, and influencers. Here’s how:
- Collaboration potential: A great conversation could lead to joint projects like webinars or workshops, potentially turning into paid gigs.
- Referrals: Impressive episodes can result in hosts referring you to others who might pay for your expertise in their programs or coaching. Everyone benefits.
Leveraging podcasts to sell your offers
Podcasts are a powerful tool for promoting your products, services, or books while growing your audience. Here’s how you can use your appearance to boost sales:
- Direct promotion: Many podcasts let you mention your offerings during the interview, with some even including links in the show notes.
- Special offers for listeners: Create exclusive deals for podcast listeners, like discounts or freebies, adding value while promoting your brand.
- Growing your email list: Drive traffic to your landing pages by offering free resources, building a list that leads to long-term sales.
Nick Unsworth, a business coach, made a bold move by spending $35,000 ads and two guest spots on a podcast for 12 weeks. The result? A whopping $150,000 in return. This shows just how powerful the right exposure can be.
Affiliate marketing income
Affiliate marketing is a great way to earn money by recommending products or services during your podcast appearances. Here’s how you can make it work:
- Have the right offer ready: Choose products or services that resonate with the podcast audience, like fitness gear for a health coach.
- Mention affiliate links naturally: Share how a product helped you, without a hard sell, to make it more relatable.
- Cross-promotion: Promote your own affiliate program, encouraging others to earn commissions by promoting your courses.
The cool part is that once you’ve set up your affiliate links, they can generate income even while you sleep.
Get reimbursements
Some podcast hosts will cover your travel expenses if they interview guests in person. This isn’t always the case, but if you’re a sought-after guest, especially in bigger cities, they might cover some costs. Here’s how guests may be reimbursed:
- Flight or hotel costs for out-of-town guests
- Meal costs as part of the guest package
- Gas or Uber fees for local recordings
It all depends on the show’s budget, but it’s one more way to get compensated for your time and effort.
How Much Do Podcast Guests Get Paid?
Yes, some podcasts do pay guests, often with varying payment structures:
- Podfest: A large podcasting community connecting guests with paying hosts, where some earn money through sponsorships or partnerships.
- Individual shows: Some podcasters pay a flat rate. This monetary compensation to their guests typically ranges from $50 to $500, depending on the show’s size, niche, and audience.
How Much Do Podcasts Pay Guests?
Most podcasts don’t pay their guests, but there are other valuable benefits that make it worth your time. Here’s why many hosts opt for the “no payment” approach:
- Exposure: Getting in front of a new audience is often the biggest benefit, especially on smaller shows that offer great networking.
- Building rapport: Hosts may want to build a relationship for future collaborations like speaking gigs or joint ventures.
- Content is king: For some popular shows, it’s not about money but the value of the guest’s insights and stories, where the guest’s credibility becomes the currency.
When paying guests makes sense for hosts
Hosts may offer monetary compensation for guests who bring substantial value, such as:
- Expertise: High-profile guests and recognized experts in fields like health, tech, or business can drive valuable content, helping hosts grow their audience and increase income.
- Audience crossover: A guest with a large following can help hosts reach a broader audience, making the guest’s presence a paid opportunity.
- Brand partnerships: Podcasts run as businesses might pay for guests to appear on their podcast show in exchange for cross-promotion or affiliate deals, benefiting both parties long term.
How Much Do Celebrities Get Paid for Podcasts?
Sure, not all podcasts pay for guest appearances – but there’s a whole other world where top-tier celebrities earn big bucks to appear on shows. We’re talking about stars whose faces are known worldwide and whose words carry weight.
3 High-paid celebrity podcast guests
Celebrities with massive followings can demand significant pay for podcast appearances. For example:
- Elon Musk: His podcast appearances can fetch between $2.5 million and $6 million, thanks to his global influence and huge audience.
- Kim Kardashian: With 358 million Instagram followers, she commands around $200,000 per appearance, offering unparalleled exposure.
- Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson: His fee ranges from $100,000 to $1 million, reflecting the massive audience and value he brings to any podcast.
Do Guests Pay to Be on Podcasts?
Pay-to-play is a controversial podcasting practice where guests pay to appear, gaining exposure while the host is compensated for their time.
Benefits of pay-to-play:
- Exposure: A high-traffic show gives you huge visibility to a new, engaged audience.
- Credibility: Being featured on respected podcasts boosts your authority.
- Networking: It opens doors for collaborations and future opportunities.
- Lead generation: If you offer services, podcasts can attract inbound leads.
Drawbacks of pay-to-play:
- Cost: Pay-to-play podcasts can be pricey, so make sure the investment is worthwhile.
- Questionable ROI: Paying doesn’t guarantee returns – if the audience isn’t a fit, it could be a waste.
- Over-saturation: Too many paid guests can dilute the show’s value, turning listeners off.
- No content control: When you need to pay, you might lose control over how your message is framed, so be clear on the terms in your guest release form before committing.
How to spot a worthwhile pay-to-play opportunity
To spot a pay-to-play podcast worth investing in, keep these factors in mind:
- Audience fit: Does the podcast’s audience align with your brand? Prioritize quality over quantity.
- Engagement and reach: A highly engaged audience (social media interaction, reviews) is more valuable than just big numbers.
- Host reputation: Is the host respected in your industry? A credible host boosts your own credibility.
- Content quality: Listen to past episodes. Ensure they’re well-produced and relevant.
- Clear value proposition: What do you get out of it? Make sure the podcast delivers real benefits in exchange for your investment.
How to Find Podcast Guests?
Finding the right guests for your podcast can be simple when you have a strategy in place. Here’s how you can make it happen.
Use Talks to match guests with podcasts
One of the easiest ways to find quality podcast guests is by using Talks. Our platform connects you with the right people in your niche, whether you’re after health coaches, mindset experts, or business gurus. No need to waste time searching – Talks does the work for you. All you have to do is find your perfect match and reach out.
Leverage social media and networking groups
Social media is a goldmine for finding podcast guests. Platforms like LinkedIn, X, and Facebook are perfect for connecting with professionals who would be a great fit. The more active you are in these communities, the more likely you are to come across guests who fit your podcast’s theme. Connect with podcast hosts and guests in the Talks Connect group.
Craft an irresistible invite
Be clear, direct, and enthusiastic. Let your potential guests know what’s in it for them. Keep it professional but personal – people respond to that.
Here’s a quick template to follow:
Hi [Guest Name],
I’m a big fan of your work on [specific topic], and I think your insights would be perfect for [Podcast Name]. Our audience is [describe audience], and we’ve had guests like [name notable guests].
The interview will take about [X] minutes, and we’ll work around your schedule. Does this sound interesting? Let me know a good time!
Best,
[Your Name]
The Cost of Being Heard
So, do podcast guests get paid? The answer depends on a variety of factors, like the podcast’s audience size, its overall reach, and the kind of guests you’re talking about.
If you’re someone looking to build your profile, get exposure, and connect with industry experts, being a podcast guest is a powerful way to achieve that. And the good news is, it’s all within reach.
Now, if you’re a podcast host or you’re looking to scale up your guest appearances, make sure to check out Talks. We help match podcasts with the right guests, taking the hassle out of the process.
