Pitching to podcasts is different from pitching to many other types of media. Podcast pitching involves in-depth research and proof that you can deliver the type of information that will resonate with the host’s audience. Podcast hosts have built and cultivated a dedicated following. Your job is to make your message match their listener base. 

 

Why do you want to be a guest?

No matter the size of the audience, getting booked as a guest on a podcast is a great way to get your message in front of a large group of people. The podcast already has dedicated listeners ready to hear what you have to say, which means you have an engaged audience already lined up to speak to. Not only that, but you will then have an episode on their show that you can continue to link back to. 

 

Research the show

Research is the first step to a successful podcast pitch. Things to remember include:

  • Not all podcasts take guests, check that the ones you are pitching to accept guest submissions.
  • Identify “how” you can help their audience and benefit the host. 
  • Tell a story. Identify the information that will be the most unique and intriguing. What stories can you tell that are relatable? A podcast is like an adult storytime, how are you going to engage the listener and make them want to hear your story?
  • What topics would the host be most likely to cover? How can you pivot your message to match?

Podcast research tends to be more in-depth. What they are looking for is a good story, and a compelling person to tell it. Start by listening to the podcast. This way you can get to know what questions the hosts asks and how in-depth the conversation could get.

 

Your one-pager

When you are pitching to podcasts, you will need a one page document outlining who you are, what you do, and why you should be interviewed. This is known as a “one-pager” or “one-sheet.” It should be sent in with your pitch email. Your one-sheet should include:

  • A high-resolution headshot or cover of your book
  • Your title 
  • Your expertise in a short paragraph or bullet points
  • Notable media you have already appeared on
  • Interview topic examples
  • Your contact information 

In your one-sheet, you can list interview questions to give your host inspiration and show them the topics that you can speak on. This is a wonderful way to highlight your expertise and show off what you can deliver to their audience.

Helpful hint: if you are an author, your table of contents is a great place to pull interview questions and topics from.

 

Speaking to their audience

Podcast hosts are dedicated to giving their audience information and advice they want to hear. They introduce new concepts, present new stories and offer new perspectives on issues and hot topics. When you pitch a podcast, keep in mind how you will communicate your content to their specific audience. 

There are thousands of podcasts out there; each one is unique. Approach each one with a unique pitch. Your talking points can be similar, but each pitch needs to be geared toward the host and show.

 

Your expertise

People often believe if they end up talking about themselves, they will seem boastful. But the reason you are on a podcast or any media platform is because of your background and expertise. You bring value to those who listen to you. Remember to include proof that you have authority in your industry. 

If you are ready to tackle podcast pitching and need an extra hand, reach out to us so we can help you nail those pitches and land more opportunities.