How To Be a Guest On a Podcast

Introduction.

Podcasts are one of the fastest-growing platforms for people to connect, learn, and share stories. If you’re reading this, you might be considering taking your voice to a podcast and want to be a guest. And honestly?

It’s a smart move! Whether you’re an entrepreneur, creative, thought leader, or just someone with a story to tell, appearing as a podcast guest can help expand your reach, strengthen your brand, and connect with a broader audience.

In this guide, I’ll break down everything you need to know about getting on a podcast as a guest. I’ll go over the essentials, from identifying the right shows to preparing for the interview, to ensure that you’re setting yourself up for success.

How Do I Become a Guest On a Podcast?

Podcasting is a fantastic way to reach niche audiences who are genuinely interested in what you have to say.

According to Statista, as of 2023, over 464 million people worldwide listen to podcasts monthly, and the number keeps growing.

People tune in during commutes, gym sessions, or even while cooking, making it a convenient medium for spreading your message.

If you’re hoping to build authority in a specific field, podcasts provide a direct line to audiences who are likely interested in your expertise.

1. Finding the Right Podcast to Be a Guest On.

The first step is finding podcasts that align with your expertise and goals. Look for shows that have an audience interested in your field or story.

Narrowing it down to the right fit can make all the difference when it comes to a successful podcast guest appearance.

Search by topic: Use platforms like Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or Google Podcasts to search for relevant topics. Look for shows that have consistent episodes and active engagement.
Check social media: Often, podcasters will post clips or information about upcoming guests. Social media is a great way to see what shows are popular in your area of interest.
Browse podcast directories: Sites like Podchaser or Listen Notes are great for browsing podcasts by category and checking out listener reviews.

2. Reaching Out to Podcast Hosts.

Once you’ve found a few podcasts that look like a good match, it’s time to reach out. But here’s the thing – hosts get a ton of emails from people hoping to be guests, so a generic “I want to be on your podcast” message probably won’t cut it. Be specific about why you’re interested and what you bring to the table.

Craft a strong pitch: Your email should be brief but impactful. Start by mentioning why you’re interested in their show and what you can add to their audience’s experience.
Highlight relevant expertise: Give a quick summary of your background, any relevant expertise, and why it fits their audience. If you have experience speaking or have been on other podcasts, it’s helpful to mention that, too.
Be professional but friendly: A warm and approachable tone goes a long way. Most podcasters aren’t looking for corporate speak – they want guests who are engaging and relatable.

Sample Pitch Email

“Hi [Host’s Name],

I recently listened to your episode on [specific topic], and I really appreciated [something you liked about the episode]. I believe my background in [your expertise] could provide valuable insight to your listeners as well.

I’d love to discuss [specific topic/idea] and how it ties into your audience’s interests. I’m available for a recording at your convenience and can send over any information you need in advance.

Thank you for considering me as a guest on your show. Looking forward to the opportunity to connect!”

3. Preparing for the Interview.

Once you’ve secured a spot, it’s time to prepare. The more you put into your preparation, the better the experience will be for you, the host, and the listeners.

Listen to a few episodes: Getting a feel for the host’s style and the podcast’s tone can help you prepare relevant content.
Plan key talking points: You don’t want to sound scripted, but it’s helpful to have a few key points you’d like to cover. Think of personal stories or examples that will illustrate your points and keep the conversation engaging.
Check your tech: Make sure your microphone and internet connection are solid. If you don’t have a microphone, using headphones with a built-in mic can help with sound quality.

4. Tips for a Great Podcast Guest Appearance.

On the day of the interview, try to keep things relaxed. A conversational tone and authentic stories often resonate well with listeners.

Be yourself: Don’t be afraid to show some personality. Podcast audiences love authenticity.
Keep answers clear and concise: People have short attention spans, so avoid going off on tangents.
Engage with the host: Podcast interviews work best as conversations rather than monologues. Respond to what the host says, and ask questions in return if it feels natural.

5. Promoting Your Episode.

After the episode goes live, share it with your network to help spread the word. It’s a win-win: the podcast reaches a wider audience, and you get more visibility as well.

Share on social media: Post clips, stories, or quotes from the episode on platforms like LinkedIn, Instagram, or Twitter.
Add it to your portfolio: If you have a personal website, include a link to the podcast episode to highlight your expertise and credibility.

Pros and Cons of Being a Podcast Guest

Pros

Reach New Audiences: Podcasts give you access to niche audiences you might not reach otherwise.
Build Credibility: Appearing as a guest shows you’re knowledgeable in your field.
Network with Hosts: Podcast hosts are often well-connected, opening up future opportunities.
Long-Term Exposure: Podcast episodes can be replayed indefinitely, providing ongoing exposure.

Cons

Time Commitment: Preparing for and recording an episode can take a fair bit of time.
Technical Requirements: A reliable setup, including a good microphone, is often necessary.
Not Always a Perfect Fit: You may need to try multiple podcasts to find one that aligns well with your message.
Results May Vary: Depending on the size and engagement level of the podcast, results may not be immediate or measurable.

FAQ

1. Do I need to be an expert to be on a podcast? Not necessarily. Some podcasts look for guests with unique experiences or perspectives rather than traditional expertise. If you have a story that resonates with the show’s theme, that’s often enough.

2. How long does a typical podcast recording last? Most podcast interviews range between 30 and 60 minutes, though it can vary by show. It’s a good idea to confirm the duration with the host ahead of time.

3. What equipment do I need? At minimum, you’ll need a quiet space and a set of headphones with a built-in microphone. If you want to sound more professional, a USB microphone and a good internet connection can make a big difference.

4. Will I get paid for being a podcast guest? Generally, podcast guests don’t get paid. The exposure and opportunity to reach a new audience are often the main benefits.

5. How soon will the episode be published? This varies by show. Some podcasts release episodes weekly and may publish your episode soon after recording, while others may record months in advance.