Podcast Speakers

A podcast speaker is someone who appears as a featured voice on a podcast episode, sharing insights, stories, or expertise with the listening audience. Unlike a co-host or producer, a podcast speaker is typically a guest invited to contribute to a specific topic or theme.

There are different types of podcast speakers depending on the format of the show. Some are subject matter experts-think cybersecurity analysts on tech podcasts or nutritionists on wellness shows. Others are storytellers or influencers who bring a personal journey or unique perspective to the table. In interview-style podcasts, the speaker is the main voice being guided by the host's questions.

What sets podcast speakers apart from other media guests is the intimacy of the format. Podcasts are often consumed through headphones, during commutes, workouts, or quiet moments. This creates a unique opportunity for speakers to connect deeply with listeners.

In many cases, podcast speakers are also thought leaders or professionals looking to build their brand, promote a product, or share a message. But the best ones go beyond promotion-they offer real value, whether that's through actionable advice, compelling storytelling, or fresh perspectives.

So, when we talk about podcast speakers, we're really talking about the voices that shape the conversation, episode by episode.

When you think about what keeps listeners coming back to a podcast, the speaker is often the deciding factor. A podcast speaker brings the content to life, transforming abstract ideas into relatable, engaging conversations.

One of the key reasons podcast speakers matter is credibility. A well-chosen speaker lends authority to your episode. For example, having a climate scientist on an environmental podcast instantly boosts trust. Listeners are more likely to tune in-and stay-when they know they're hearing from someone who knows their stuff.

Another reason is connection. A great speaker doesn't just talk-they resonate. Whether it's a founder sharing startup struggles or a teacher discussing education reform, the speaker's voice becomes a bridge between the content and the audience. This connection is what turns a passive listener into a loyal subscriber.

Podcast speakers also drive discoverability. Well-known guests can bring their own audience to your show, expanding your reach. But even lesser-known voices, when chosen well, can spark word-of-mouth buzz and social sharing.

Finally, speakers shape the tone and direction of your show. They influence pacing, depth, and even the emotional arc of the episode. That's why selecting the right speaker isn't just a booking decision-it's a strategic one.

Podcast speakers contribute more than just their voice-they shape the entire listening experience. Here's a breakdown of what podcast speakers actually do:

1. Share Expertise or Stories.
- Whether they're a CEO, activist, artist, or athlete, podcast speakers offer insights based on their unique background.
- Example: A fintech founder might explain how decentralized finance works, while a travel blogger could share tips on remote work abroad.

2. Engage in Dialogue.
- Most podcast speakers are part of an interview or panel format. They respond to questions, offer opinions, and sometimes challenge the host or other guests.
- This dynamic exchange keeps the conversation lively and informative.

3. Educate and Inspire.
- Many podcast speakers aim to teach something new or motivate listeners to take action.
- On shows like 'The Tim Ferriss Show', guests often break down their routines or strategies in a way that's both practical and inspiring.

4. Promote Ideas or Brands.
- Some speakers use podcasts as a platform to promote a book, product, or cause.
- When done authentically, this can add value to the episode while helping the speaker reach a wider audience.

5. Adapt to the Format.
- A good podcast speaker tailors their delivery to the show's style-whether it's a casual chat, a deep-dive interview, or a rapid-fire Q&A.
- They understand the tone, audience, and pacing required to keep listeners engaged.

In short, podcast speakers are collaborators. They bring content, energy, and perspective that elevate the episode and serve the audience.

Becoming a podcast speaker isn't just about having something to say - it's about knowing how to say it, who to say it to, and where to show up. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you get started:

1. Define Your Niche and Expertise
- Are you a marketing strategist? A mental health advocate? A startup founder? Pinpoint your area of expertise.
- Tip: Look at trending podcast categories on Apple Podcasts or Spotify to find where your voice fits.

2. Build Your Speaker Page
- Create a professional speaker page that highlights your bio, topics you speak on, past appearances, and a high-quality headshot.
- Use platforms like Talks.co to build and showcase your speaker profile. It connects podcast hosts with relevant speakers and streamlines the booking process.

3. Collect Social Proof
- Start small: appear on niche or local podcasts to build a track record.
- Ask for testimonials or clips from hosts to add to your speaker page.

4. Pitch Yourself to Podcast Hosts
- Research shows tailored pitches get far more responses. Mention why you're a fit for their audience.
- Use directories like Podchaser or tools like MatchMaker.fm to find shows in your niche.

5. Prepare and Deliver Value
- Know the audience. Listen to a few episodes of the show before your appearance.
- Bring actionable insights, stories, or frameworks. Don't just promote yourself - educate, entertain, or inspire.

6. Promote Your Appearances
- Share your episodes on LinkedIn, Twitter, or your email list.
- Tag the host and podcast to build relationships and increase reach.

7. Rinse and Repeat
- The more you speak, the better you get. Use every appearance to refine your message and grow your network.

Whether you're a coach, consultant, or founder, podcast stages are powerful platforms. And with tools like Talks.co, it's easier than ever to get booked and be heard.

At its core, being a podcast speaker is about credibility, clarity, and connection. But what exactly do you need to step into that role confidently? Let's break it down:

1. A Clear Message and Expertise
You don't need to be a celebrity or bestselling author. But you do need a clear point of view and something valuable to share. Whether it's lessons from your startup journey or insights from your health practice, your message should be focused and relevant to a specific audience.

2. A Speaker Profile
This acts as your digital resume. It should include:
- A compelling bio (keep it under 150 words)
- Topics you speak on
- Links to past podcast appearances (if any)
- A professional headshot

Platforms like Talks.co make this easy by giving you a ready-to-share speaker page that hosts can browse.

3. Decent Audio Setup
You don't need a full studio, but poor audio can ruin your credibility. At minimum:
- A USB microphone like the Blue Yeti or Samson Q2U
- Headphones to avoid echo
- A quiet, echo-free room

4. Communication Skills
You should be able to speak clearly, stay on topic, and adapt to different interview styles. Practice helps. So does listening to top podcast speakers in your niche to study their tone and pacing.

5. A Way to Get Booked
This is where many aspiring speakers get stuck. Use platforms like Talks.co to connect with podcast hosts actively looking for guests. You can also pitch directly via email or DM, but having a centralized profile boosts your chances.

In short, you need a mix of content, presence, and tools. With the right setup and strategy, you can start landing podcast spots even if you're just starting out.

The short answer: sometimes. The longer answer? It depends on the speaker, the podcast, and the value exchange.

Let's break it down:

1. Most Podcast Speakers Are Unpaid
Especially in the early stages, podcast speakers appear for free. Why? Because podcasts offer exposure to targeted audiences. For many, that visibility is more valuable than a fee.

2. Paid Opportunities Exist - But They're Selective
Top-tier speakers or those with a large following may command fees. For example:
- Business leaders with bestselling books may charge $500 to $5,000 per appearance.
- Celebrities or influencers with massive reach can negotiate even higher.

3. Value Exchange Over Cash
Many podcast appearances are part of a value exchange:
- The speaker gets exposure, backlinks, and content.
- The host gets expert insights and engaging conversation.

4. Sponsored Appearances
Some podcasts offer paid guest spots, especially in B2B niches. These are often labeled as 'sponsored interviews' and can cost anywhere from $250 to $2,500.

Pros of Paid Speaking:
- Compensation for your time and expertise.
- Signals authority and demand.

Cons:
- Fewer opportunities.
- May limit organic reach if labeled as sponsored.

In summary, while most podcast speakers don't get paid directly, the indirect ROI can be significant. And as your reputation grows, so do your chances of commanding a fee.

Podcast speakers might not always get a paycheck for showing up, but that doesn't mean they're not making money. In fact, many use podcast appearances as a strategic tool to drive revenue in other ways. Here's how it works:

1. Lead Generation
Speakers often use podcasts to attract potential clients.
- A business coach might share a free download or quiz.
- A SaaS founder might offer a free trial or demo.

2. Selling Products or Services
If you have something to sell, podcasts are a great place to talk about it.
- Course creators promote their programs.
- Authors mention their books.
- Consultants highlight their frameworks.

3. Affiliate Marketing
Some speakers earn commissions by recommending tools or services.
- For example, a productivity expert might mention Notion or ClickUp with an affiliate link.

4. Getting Paid by Hosts or Sponsors
As mentioned in 'Do podcast speakers get paid', some shows do offer payment, especially if the speaker brings a large audience or unique value.

5. Repurposing Content
Speakers often repurpose podcast interviews into:
- Blog posts
- YouTube clips
- LinkedIn content

This extends their reach and builds authority, which indirectly drives revenue.

6. Building Partnerships
Podcast appearances can lead to joint ventures, collaborations, or speaking invites. One interview could open doors to a summit, webinar, or even a book deal.

So while the mic itself might not pay the bills, podcast speaking is a powerful revenue engine when used strategically.

Podcast speakers earn across a wide spectrum, depending on their niche, audience size, and monetization strategy. Let's break it down with some real-world context:
1. Direct Payments (Rare but Growing)
- Entry-level speakers: $0 to $250 per appearance.
- Mid-tier experts: $250 to $1,000.
- High-profile guests (authors, CEOs, influencers): $1,000 to $10,000+.
2. Indirect Income (More Common)
Many speakers make money by converting listeners into clients or customers. For example:
- A business coach might land a $5,000 client from one podcast.
- A course creator might sell 50 seats at $97 each after an interview.
3. Sponsored Guest Spots
Some podcasts charge guests to appear. In these cases, the speaker pays to access the audience, but may still profit if they convert leads.
4. Long-Term ROI
The real value often shows up over time:
- Increased SEO from backlinks.
- More social proof and credibility.
- Invitations to speak at events or summits.
Table: Sample Income Scenarios

Speaker Type	Direct Fee	Indirect Revenue Potential
New Coach	$0	$500 - $2,000 per episode
Author with Book	$250	$1,000 - $10,000+
SaaS Founder	$0	$5,000+ in new trials
Influencer (100K+)	$1,000+	$10,000+ from brand deals

So while podcast speakers may not always get paid upfront, the earning potential is very real - especially when you treat each appearance as a marketing asset.

If you're a podcast host or event organizer looking to book a guest, you might be wondering: how much does a podcast speaker actually cost? The answer depends on several factors:
1. Free Appearances (Most Common)
Many podcast speakers appear for free, especially if the show offers:
- A targeted audience
- Good production quality
- A chance to promote their work
2. Paid Guest Spots
Some speakers charge for their time, especially if they're:
- High-demand experts
- Bestselling authors
- Industry leaders
Typical Rates:
- Emerging speakers: $0 to $250
- Mid-level experts: $250 to $1,000
- Celebrity guests: $1,000 to $10,000+
3. Sponsored Interviews
Some podcasts offer pay-to-play interviews. In this case, the speaker pays the host, not the other way around. These can range from $200 to $5,000 depending on the podcast's reach.
4. Other Costs to Consider
Even if the speaker is free, there may be indirect costs:
- Editing and production
- Promotion and ad spend
- Booking platforms (like Talks.co, which may charge a small fee for premium features)
Comparison Table:

Speaker Type	Cost to Host	Notes
New Expert	$0	Often eager to build portfolio
Author/Coach	$250 - $750	May include promo expectations
Influencer (100K+)	$1,000+	Often negotiable
Sponsored Guest	-$500 to -$5,000	Host gets paid by guest

In short, podcast speakers can cost nothing or quite a bit - it all depends on the value exchange and the goals of both parties.

Some podcast speakers have left a lasting mark on the medium, not just because of what they said, but how they said it. Here's a list of standout names who've consistently delivered value, insight, and memorable conversations:

1. Brené Brown
- Known for: Vulnerability, leadership, and emotional intelligence.
- Memorable moment: Her appearance on 'Unlocking Us' and 'Dare to Lead' set a new bar for authenticity.

2. Tim Ferriss
- Known for: Deconstructing success across industries.
- Quote: "What do you do in the first 60 minutes of your day?" - a signature question that's sparked countless insights.

3. Malcolm Gladwell
- Known for: Storytelling and deep dives into human behavior.
- His voice and cadence are instantly recognizable, and his 'Revisionist History' podcast is a masterclass in narrative.

4. Oprah Winfrey
- Known for: Empathy, presence, and elevating voices.
- Her Super Soul Conversations have featured everyone from Deepak Chopra to Eckhart Tolle.

5. Seth Godin
- Known for: Marketing wisdom and clear, concise delivery.
- His appearances on shows like 'Marketing Over Coffee' and 'The Tim Ferriss Show' are packed with quotables.

6. Simon Sinek
- Known for: Leadership and purpose-driven messaging.
- His 'Start With Why' message resonates across podcast platforms.

7. Guy Raz
- Known for: Hosting 'How I Built This'.
- His interviewing style brings out the best in founders and innovators.

8. Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie
- Known for: Cultural commentary and literary insight.
- Her rare podcast appearances are widely shared and deeply impactful.

These speakers have shaped the podcast landscape with their voices, ideas, and delivery. Whether you're a host or aspiring speaker, studying their work is time well spent.

Looking at the global stage, some podcast speakers stand out not just for their eloquence, but for their ability to connect across cultures, industries, and formats. Here are some of the best podcast speakers in the world right now:

1. Jay Shetty (UK/USA)
- Former monk turned storyteller.
- His 'On Purpose' podcast blends mindfulness with practical life advice.

2. Naval Ravikant (USA/India)
- Angel investor and philosopher.
- Known for deep, thought-provoking takes on wealth, happiness, and startups.

3. Leila Hormozi (USA/Iran)
- Business operator and co-founder of Acquisition.com.
- Her clear, no-fluff delivery on scaling businesses has earned her a loyal following.

4. Ali Abdaal (UK)
- Former doctor turned productivity guru.
- His podcast and YouTube interviews are popular among creators and students alike.

5. Esther Perel (Belgium/USA)
- Psychotherapist and relationship expert.
- Her podcast 'Where Should We Begin?' offers raw, unscripted conversations that resonate globally.

6. Lewis Howes (USA)
- Host of 'The School of Greatness'.
- Known for drawing out motivational stories from athletes, entrepreneurs, and thought leaders.

7. Indra Nooyi (India/USA)
- Former CEO of PepsiCo.
- Her rare podcast interviews offer powerful insights on leadership and inclusion.

8. Mo Gawdat (Egypt/UK)
- Former Google X executive and happiness researcher.
- His appearances on shows like 'Diary of a CEO' are widely shared.

9. Marie Forleo (USA)
- Entrepreneur and author.
- Her podcast features actionable business advice with a personal twist.

10. Dr. Rangan Chatterjee (UK)
- GP and wellness advocate.
- His podcast 'Feel Better, Live More' is one of the most downloaded health shows in Europe.

These voices are shaping global conversations. Whether they're diving into business, wellness, or relationships, they bring clarity, charisma, and cultural relevance to every mic they touch.

Myth 1: Podcast speakers need a radio voice.
This one trips up a lot of beginners. People assume that unless they sound like Morgan Freeman or a BBC anchor, they shouldn't be behind a mic. But here's the truth: authenticity beats polish. Listeners connect with real voices, not perfect ones. Just look at Marc Maron or Sarah Koenig. Neither has a 'classic' radio voice, yet both have built massive audiences by being relatable and consistent.

Myth 2: You need to be famous to get invited.
Not even close. While celebrity guests do get airtime, many podcast speakers are niche experts, entrepreneurs, or passionate hobbyists. If you bring value, insight, or a unique story, you're in. Podcasts like 'Smart Passive Income' or 'The Tim Ferriss Show' regularly feature lesser-known voices who deliver real substance.

Myth 3: Speaking on podcasts doesn't drive real business results.
This is a big one, especially among skeptics in corporate or B2B spaces. But data tells a different story. According to Nielsen, 78% of podcast listeners say they've taken action after hearing a podcast ad or guest. That includes visiting a website, signing up for a list, or even making a purchase. Podcast speakers who share actionable insights and clear CTAs often see a direct ROI.

Myth 4: You have to script everything.
Sure, some structure helps. But scripting every word? That kills spontaneity. The best podcast speakers prepare talking points, not full scripts. This keeps the energy natural and the conversation flowing. Think of it like jazz: you know the key, but you riff in the moment.

Myth 5: Podcasts are only for tech or marketing folks.
Not anymore. From mental health to farming, from fashion to finance, there's a podcast for every niche. And podcast speakers come from every walk of life. Whether you're a yoga instructor in Bali or a fintech founder in Berlin, there's a mic waiting for your message.

When Dr. Chhavi Rajawat, a rural development advocate from India, appeared on the 'Global GoalsCast' podcast, she wasn't looking for fame. She wanted to share how digital tools were transforming her village. The episode went viral in development circles, and within weeks, she was fielding calls from NGOs and universities worldwide. Her authentic storytelling and grounded expertise resonated far beyond her local context.

Then there's John Lee Dumas, host of 'Entrepreneurs on Fire'. He started as a podcast host, but over time, he became a sought-after speaker on other shows. His secret? He tailored his message to each audience. On business shows, he talked systems. On lifestyle podcasts, he shared mindset shifts. That flexibility made him a podcast speaker who could cross genres and still deliver value.

In Brazil, wellness coach Ana Paula Souza built her coaching business by speaking on Portuguese-language podcasts. She focused on mental health and burnout recovery, a topic that resonated deeply during the pandemic. Her appearances led to a 3x increase in her client base and a book deal with a regional publisher.

Meanwhile, in the UK, fintech founder Daniel Lanyon used podcast guesting as a growth strategy. He targeted industry-specific shows like 'Fintech Insider' and 'Banking Transformed'. By sharing behind-the-scenes insights and startup lessons, he positioned himself as a thought leader. Investors noticed. So did potential hires.

Each of these podcast speakers had different goals: awareness, authority, leads, or impact. But they all succeeded by showing up with clarity, relevance, and a message that mattered to the audience. That's the real playbook.

Podcasting isn't just growing in size, it's evolving in shape. And that shift is opening up new lanes for podcast speakers. Here's what's on the horizon:

- Niche domination. The days of generalist shows are fading. Listeners want specificity. That means podcast speakers who can go deep on narrow topics-like regenerative agriculture, AI ethics, or Afro-futurism-will be in high demand. The more niche your expertise, the more valuable your voice.

- Interactive formats. With platforms like Spotify experimenting with polls and Q&A, podcasting is becoming more two-way. Speakers who can engage live audiences, respond in real-time, or adapt to feedback loops will stand out.

- Global language expansion. English isn't the only game in town. Podcasts in Spanish, Hindi, Mandarin, and Arabic are exploding. Bilingual or multilingual podcast speakers will have a serious edge as shows look to reach broader audiences.

- AI-assisted guesting. Tools like Talks.co are already matching speakers with hosts. Soon, AI will help speakers prep for interviews, analyze audience sentiment, and even suggest talking points based on the host's past episodes. Smart speakers will use this tech to fine-tune their delivery.

- Short-form podcasting. As attention spans shrink, micro-podcasts (under 10 minutes) are gaining traction. That changes the game for speakers. You'll need to deliver impact fast-think TED Talk meets TikTok.

The takeaway? Podcast speakers who embrace these shifts-who stay nimble, tech-savvy, and audience-aware-will thrive in the next wave of audio storytelling.

Talks.co. This is a matchmaking platform for podcast hosts and guests. You can create a profile, highlight your topics, and get matched with relevant shows. Pro tip: optimize your profile with keywords and a short video intro to stand out.

PodMatch. Similar to Talks.co, but with a slightly different algorithm and a strong community feel. It's great for speakers who want to build long-term relationships with hosts across industries.

Listen Notes. This is like Google for podcasts. Use it to research shows in your niche, analyze episode formats, and pitch strategically. Bonus: you can filter by language, region, and audience size.

Descript. A powerful tool for editing audio and video. Even if you're just a guest, Descript helps you repurpose your podcast appearances into clips for social media or your website.

Headliner. Want to turn your podcast clips into engaging audiograms? Headliner makes it easy. This is especially useful for speakers looking to showcase their best moments on LinkedIn or Instagram.

Calendly. Booking interviews can be a hassle. Calendly simplifies scheduling with hosts. Set your availability, share the link, and avoid the back-and-forth emails.

The Podcast Guest Collaboration Community (Facebook Group). A free group where hosts and guests connect. It's informal, but active. Great for beginners testing the waters.

Riverside.fm. If you're doing remote interviews, this platform ensures high-quality audio and video. Some hosts will ask you to use it, but it's also handy for recording your own practice sessions.