How to Get Featured on a Podcast

Podcasts are super popular now. They're a great way to connect with specific groups of people and show you know your stuff. Getting on podcasts as a guest can really help your brand, bring people to your website, and make you look like an expert. But how do you get on those podcasts? Let's walk through it, from finding the right podcasts to writing pitches that get noticed.

Why Get on Podcasts? The Benefits

Before we talk about how, let's talk about why. Here's why getting on podcasts is awesome:

• More people know your brand: You get your name in front of a new audience that's perfect for you.
• Bigger reach: You tap into the podcast's listeners and social media fans.
• You look like an expert: People see you as someone who knows what they're talking about.
• Website love: Many podcasts link to your website, which helps your website show up higher in search results.
• New customers: You bring interested people to your website and get new leads.
• Make connections: You meet podcast hosts and other cool guests.
• Reuse your content: Turn your podcast chat into blog posts, social media snippets, and more.

Being a podcast guest is a smart marketing move for businesses and individuals. You can share what you know, meet new people, and boost your online presence.

Step 1: Find the Right Podcasts

Finding the right podcasts is key. You need podcasts that match your audience, industry, and what you're good at. Picking the wrong podcasts is a waste of time. So, how do you find the right ones?

1. Know Your Audience

Who are you trying to reach? What do they like? What problems do they have? Knowing this helps you find podcasts they'd listen to. Think about their age, location, job, and hobbies.

2. Do Your Podcast Research

Here's how to find relevant podcasts:

• Podcast places: Check out Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, and Stitcher. Search for words related to your industry.
• Google: Search for "[your industry] podcast" or "[your audience] podcast."
• Social Media: Ask your friends what podcasts they like. Search for relevant hashtags on Twitter and LinkedIn.
• Industry Blogs: Many blogs list top podcasts in specific areas.
• Podcast Matching Sites: Sites like MatchMaker.fm connect guests with podcast hosts.

3. Check Podcast Quality and Size

Once you have some podcasts in mind, see if they're good and how many people listen. Consider these things:

• Reviews and Ratings: Check reviews on Apple Podcasts. Good reviews mean people like the podcast.
• Listen to Episodes: Listen to a few episodes to check the sound quality and content.
• Audience Size: Look for signs like social media activity and website traffic. Good engagement means a good audience.
• Does it Fit?: Make sure the podcast's topics match what you know and can talk about.

4. Make a List

Make a list of 10-20 podcasts that look good. Focus on podcasts with a good audience, relevant topics, and a host you think you can connect with.

Step 2: Write a Great Pitch

Now, you need to write an email that grabs the host's attention and makes them want you on their show. This is the most important step.

1. Know the Host

Before you reach out, learn about the host. Listen to their podcast, read their bio, and follow them on social media. What do they care about? What kind of guests do they usually have? Personal touches matter.

2. Make it Personal

Don't just copy and paste. Mention specific episodes you liked or topics you want to talk about that fit the podcast. Show the host you did your homework.

3. What's Your Value?

Why should they have you on? What can you offer that their audience will love? Focus on what's in it for them, not just you.

4. Suggest Topics

Don't just ask to be on. Suggest 2-3 specific topics that fit the podcast and your expertise. Make sure they haven't covered these recently.

5. Keep it Short

Podcast hosts are busy. Keep your email short and sweet, around 200-300 words. Use simple language and get to the point.

6. Show Your Stuff

Briefly mention your experience and any proof that you know your stuff. This could be links to your website or social media. But don't brag too much. Just show you're credible.

7. Ask for Something

Tell them what you want. Ask if they're open to discussing topics or scheduling a quick chat. Make it easy for them to say yes.

8. Check for Mistakes

Typos can hurt your credibility. Proofread your email carefully. Use a grammar checker or ask someone else to look it over.

Example Pitch:

Subject: Guest Idea for [Podcast Name] - [Your Name]

Hi [Host Name],

I’m [Your Name], [Your Title] at [Your Company]. I love [Podcast Name], especially your episode on [Specific Episode Topic].

I think I could offer great info on [Relevant Topic]. I’ve been in [Your Industry] for [Number] years and know a lot about [Specific Area of Expertise].

Here are some topics your listeners might like:

• [Topic Idea 1]: [Brief Description]
• [Topic Idea 2]: [Brief Description]
• [Topic Idea 3]: [Brief Description]

I’ve also been on [Mention any media appearances]. You can find my work at [Your Website].

Would you be up for a quick chat about these ideas? I know I can help your audience.

Thanks for your time!

[Your Name]

Step 3: Follow Up and Connect

Don't worry if you don't hear back right away. Podcast hosts are busy. Follow up politely in a week or two if you don't hear anything. Remind them of your value.

Even if they say no, don't give up. Connect with them on social media, comment on their episodes, and offer support. Building relationships can lead to future opportunities.

Step 4: Get Ready for the Interview

You got a spot! Now, get ready for the interview. Here's how to shine:

1. Know the Podcast

Listen to more episodes. How does the host interview people? What kind of questions do they ask? Match your answers to the podcast's style.

2. Plan Your Points

Make a list of key things you want to talk about. Share good info, tell interesting stories, and answer common questions. Don't just repeat stuff; offer new ideas.

3. Practice, Practice

Practice answering questions out loud. This helps you sound better and avoid filler words. Record yourself to see where you can improve.

4. Spread the Word

When the episode is live, share it on social media, your website, and email. Tag the host and tell your followers to listen. This helps the podcast and shows you're a team player.

Step 5: Make the Most of It

Your work isn't done after the interview. Here's how to get the most out of it:

• Share the Episode: Post it everywhere!
• Talk to Listeners: Answer questions on social media and the podcast website.
• Reuse the Content: Turn the episode into blog posts and social media posts.
• Show it Off: Add the podcast to your media kit to show you're an expert.
• Track Your Results: See how many people visit your website and engage on social media.

Conclusion: Podcasts are Powerful

Getting on podcasts is a great way to build your brand, reach new people, and show you're a leader. Follow these steps to get more guest spots and make the most of them. Remember, find the right podcasts, write great pitches, get ready for interviews, and share your appearances. Use podcasting as a valuable part of your marketing plan and watch your influence grow!

Good podcast marketing means doing your research and personalizing your approach. By learning how to pitch yourself well, you can use podcasts to spread your message and connect with your audience. Good luck!