How to Get On Podcasts as a Guest in 2026
Appearing as a guest on podcasts can transform your business, authority, and reach.
A single interview can expose you to thousands of targeted listeners. Multiple appearances compound that effect. The right podcast tour can generate leads, book sales, speaking opportunities, and credibility that takes years to build otherwise.
But here's the problem: podcast hosts get pitched constantly. Most pitches are terrible, generic, and self-serving.
If you want to get booked consistently, you need a strategic approach that makes hosts excited to have you on.
Here's exactly how to do it.
Why Podcast Guesting Works (And Why Now)
Before diving into tactics, let's establish why this matters:
The podcast landscape in 2026:
460+ million podcast listeners worldwide
5+ million active podcasts
Average listener consumes 8+ hours of podcast content weekly
83% of listeners take action based on podcast recommendations
What podcast appearances give you:
Authority positioning: Being interviewed = expert status
Audience reach: Access to established, engaged audiences
SEO benefits: Most shows include backlinks in show notes
Content leverage: One interview becomes blog posts, social clips, testimonials
Relationship building: Direct connection with hosts and their networks
Lead generation: Relevant audiences learn about your work organically
Who should pursue podcast guesting:
Authors (especially during book launches)
Entrepreneurs and business owners
Consultants and coaches
Speakers and thought leaders
Subject matter experts
Anyone building personal brand or authority
If you have expertise worth sharing, podcast guesting should be part of your strategy.
Step 1: Define Your Ideal Podcast Profile
Most people waste time pitching the wrong shows. Start by getting strategic about fit.
Ask Yourself:
What's your core expertise? Be specific. "Marketing" is too broad. "Email marketing for e-commerce brands" is better.
Who's your target audience?
Job titles and industries
Demographics (age, location, income)
Psychographics (challenges, goals, interests)
What topics can you speak on with authority?
List 5-10 specific topics you can discuss in depth
What unique insights or experiences do you bring?
What controversial or counterintuitive takes do you have?
What size shows make sense?
Beginner: 500-5,000 downloads/episode (easier to book, still valuable)
Intermediate: 5,000-20,000 downloads/episode (good reach, moderate competition)
Advanced: 20,000+ downloads/episode (hardest to book, maximum reach)
What format works for you?
Interview style (host asks questions)
Co-hosted conversation (multiple hosts)
Solo takeover (you teach/present)
Panel or roundtable
Create Your Target Show Profile:
Ideal podcast targets:
- Audience: [Specific audience description]
- Topics covered: [Related to my expertise]
- Episode length: [I can commit to 30-60 minutes]
- Show frequency: [Weekly shows = active hosts]
- Download range: [Realistic for my current authority level]
- Host style: [Conversational, professional, casual]This clarity prevents you from wasting time on irrelevant shows.
Step 2: Find the Right Podcasts (5 Methods)
Now that you know what you're looking for, here's how to find shows:
Method 1: Apple Podcasts / Spotify Search
How to do it:
Search keywords related to your expertise
Browse top results in relevant categories
Check episode frequency (active shows)
Review recent episodes and guest types
Note shows that interview people like you
Example search terms:
"[Your industry] podcast"
"[Your topic] interview"
"Podcast for [your audience]"
What to look for:
Regular publishing schedule
Guest interview format (not just solo host)
Professional production quality
Audience engagement (reviews, ratings)
Method 2: Listen Notes (Podcast Search Engine)
Why it's powerful: Search across 3+ million podcasts by topic, guest, or keyword.
How to use it:
Search your expertise area
Filter by language, length, recent episodes
See which shows interview guests
Find shows that featured people similar to you
Export list of target podcasts
Pro tip: Search for competitors or peers who've been guests, then target those same shows.
Method 3: Guest Matching Platforms
Self-service platforms:
PodMatch - AI matching between hosts and guests
MatchMaker.fm - Community-driven matching
PodcastGuests.com - Newsletter and directory
Guestio - Marketplace for podcast bookings
How they work:
Create a detailed guest profile
List your expertise and topics
Wait for matches or search for shows
Connect directly with hosts
Pros: Hosts on these platforms WANT guests Cons: Quality varies, need to vet shows carefully
Method 4: Social Media Listening
LinkedIn:
Search: "looking for podcast guests"
Search: "[topic] + podcast guest"
Join podcasting groups
Follow hosts who interview in your niche
Twitter/X:
Search: "#podcastguest [your topic]"
Search: "looking for guests [your expertise]"
Follow #PodcastersOfTwitter
Facebook:
Join podcasting groups
Search group posts for guest requests
Reddit:
r/podcasting
r/GuestRequest
Niche-specific subreddits
Method 5: Reverse Engineer Competitors
How to do it:
Identify 5-10 people with similar expertise
Google: "[Their name] + podcast"
Check their media page (many list appearances)
Use Listen Notes to search by guest name
Create list of all shows they've appeared on
Why this works: If they were a good fit, you probably are too.
Step 3: Research Before You Pitch
Never send a cold pitch without research. Here's your checklist:
For Each Target Show:
Listen to at least 2 recent episodes (full episodes, not just intros)
Note the host's interview style and typical guest types
Identify topics they've covered and gaps you could fill
Find the host's contact information (email preferred)
Check if they have guest application process or guidelines
Review their website for booking instructions
Where to find contact info:
Show notes (many include booking email)
Podcast website "Contact" or "Be a Guest" page
Host's LinkedIn profile or personal website
Use Hunter.io or RocketReach if needed
Red flags to avoid:
Show hasn't published in 3+ months (inactive)
Only interviews celebrities (unrealistic for you)
Explicitly states "no guest pitches"
Poor production quality (may not be worth your time)
Step 4: Craft Your Pitch Email
This is where most people fail. Here's how to write pitches that get responses:
The Pitch Formula That Works:
1. Personalized Opening (2 sentences) Reference specific episode or content from their show.
2. Brief Credibility Statement (1-2 sentences) Who you are and why you're qualified.
3. Clear Value Proposition (2-3 sentences) What their audience will learn from you.
4. Specific Topic Angles (3 bullet points) Concrete topics you can discuss.
5. Easy Ask (1 sentence) Would they be interested?
Template: The Authority Play
Subject: Guest idea for [Podcast Name]: [Specific Topic]
Hi [Host Name],
I just listened to your episode with [Recent Guest] about [Topic]. Your question about [specific thing] really resonated—that's exactly the challenge I help [audience] solve.
I'm [Your Name], [your credibility statement: author of X, founder of Y, expert in Z]. I've [specific achievement that shows expertise].
I think your audience would benefit from a conversation about [specific angle on your expertise], particularly:
- [Specific actionable topic 1]
- [Counterintuitive insight or unique angle]
- [Practical strategy your audience can implement]
I have [optional: data/research/case studies] that would make this especially relevant for [their audience type].
Would this be a good fit for [Podcast Name]? Happy to send more details or adjust the angle to what works best for your show.
Best,
[Your Name]
[Title]
[Website]
[LinkedIn]Template: The Timely Hook
Subject: [Timely topic] for [Podcast Name]
Hi [Host Name],
With [current event/trend] happening right now, I thought your [Podcast Name] audience might be interested in [specific angle related to your expertise].
I'm [Name], [credential]. I've been tracking [topic] for [timeframe] and have [unique data/insight/experience] that runs counter to what most people think.
For your show, I could break down:
- Why [common belief] is actually wrong about [topic]
- The [number] factors that actually drive [outcome]
- What [your audience] should do differently starting now
I've prepared [specific examples/data] that would make this concrete and actionable for listeners.
Does this interest you? I'm flexible on timing and format.
Best,
[Your Name]Template: The Unique Angle
Subject: Different take on [topic] for [Podcast Name]
Hi [Host Name],
I noticed you've had several guests on [Podcast Name] discuss [topic]—[Guest Name]'s perspective was particularly interesting.
I'd love to offer a different angle: [your unique perspective/experience]. Most experts say [common wisdom], but my experience [doing X] showed the opposite.
Specifically, I could discuss:
- [Unique framework or methodology]
- [Counterintuitive insight backed by experience]
- [Actionable strategy they won't hear elsewhere]
I think this would complement the [topic] content you've already covered while giving your audience something fresh.
Here's my background: [2-sentence credibility statement]
Would this work for [Podcast Name]?
[Your Name]
[Contact info]What Makes a Pitch Actually Work:
DO:
✅ Reference their specific content - Proves you listened
✅ Lead with value for their audience - Not what you get out of it
✅ Be specific about topics - Vague = rejection
✅ Keep it under 200 words - Busy hosts skim
✅ Make it conversational - You're starting a relationship
✅ Include credibility markers - But don't oversell
✅ Proofread carefully - Typos = immediate delete
DON'T:
❌ Start with your bio - They don't care yet
❌ Send generic templates - "I'd be a great guest for your show"
❌ Pitch multiple topics - Focus on one strong angle
❌ Oversell yourself - "World's leading expert" = cringe
❌ Attach files - Links only, never attachments
❌ Pitch what you want to promote - Lead with value, not your product
❌ Ignore their guest guidelines - If they have an application process, use it
Step 5: The Follow-Up Strategy
Most bookings happen after follow-up. Here's the sequence:
Initial Pitch (Day 0)
Send your personalized pitch email.
Follow-Up #1 (Day 7-10)
Subject: Re: [Original Subject]
Hi [Host Name],
Following up on my note from last week about appearing on [Podcast Name] to discuss [topic].
I know podcasters get tons of pitches—just wanted to make sure this didn't get buried.
Still happy to adjust the angle or timing to fit your schedule.
Best,
[Your Name]Follow-Up #2 (Day 14-17)
Subject: Re: [Original Subject] + Resource
Hi [Host Name],
Last follow-up here! I recently [wrote an article / published research / spoke at event] about [topic] that ties into what I pitched for [Podcast Name]: [link]
Thought you might find it interesting even if the podcast timing doesn't work out.
If you're not interested, no worries—just let me know and I'll stop bothering you!
Best,
[Your Name]The Graceful Exit (Day 21)
Subject: Closing the loop
Hi [Host Name],
I'll take the silence as a "not right now"—totally understand!
If anything changes or you want to revisit [topic] down the line, I'm around.
Best of luck with the show!
[Your Name]Success rate expectations:
10 pitches → 3-5 responses → 1-2 bookings (if well-targeted and personalized)
Most confirmations come from follow-up #1 or #2
Don't give up after one email
Step 6: Make the Most of Your Appearance
You got booked! Now make it count:
Before Recording:
1. Prepare Thoroughly
Research host and show deeply
Listen to 3-5 recent episodes
Review any prep questions they send
Prepare 3-5 stories or examples
Have statistics or data ready to reference
2. Technical Setup
Good microphone (USB mic minimum)
Quiet space with minimal echo
Stable internet connection
Headphones (reduces audio feedback)
Test recording platform beforehand
3. Have Your Materials Ready
Headshot (high-res)
Bio (50-100 words, 3rd person)
Website and social media links
Any resources you want to mention
During Recording:
Be a Great Guest:
Show up 15 minutes early
Be enthusiastic and energetic
Tell stories, not just facts
Let the host guide but be conversational
Don't just pitch your stuff
Provide actionable value
Be authentic and personable
Technical Tips:
Speak clearly and at moderate pace
Pause between thoughts (easier to edit)
If you mess up, just restart the sentence
Stay engaged—nod, react, be present
After Recording:
1. Thank the Host Send immediate thank-you email expressing appreciation.
2. Provide What They Need
Headshot, bio, links (if not sent earlier)
Any resources mentioned during interview
Respond promptly to any follow-up questions
3. Promote When It Goes Live
Share across all your channels (LinkedIn, Twitter, email list)
Tag the host and podcast
Use assets they provide (graphics, audiograms)
Write a LinkedIn post about key takeaways
Add to your media page
4. Track Results
Website traffic from that episode
New followers or subscribers
Leads or sales generated
Connections made
5. Stay Connected
Connect with host on LinkedIn
Engage with their future content
Refer potential guests to them
Consider them for your own content/network
Advanced Strategies for Getting Booked More
Once you've done a few appearances:
Build a Media Kit
Create a one-page resource with:
Professional headshot
3-sentence bio
Topics you speak on
Sample questions for hosts
Past podcast appearances (with links)
Testimonials from previous hosts
Contact information
Where to host it: Create /media page on your website
Create a "Book Me" Page
Dedicated landing page with:
Why you're a great guest
Topics you cover
Application form or booking calendar
Social proof (past appearances)
Video trailer (60-second introduction)
Leverage Past Appearances
The Referral Strategy: After each interview, ask the host: "Do you know other podcasters who might be interested in [topic]?"
The Momentum Strategy: "I've appeared on [Show A], [Show B], and [Show C]" becomes powerful credibility in future pitches.
The Content Strategy:
Create blog posts from interview content
Share clips on social media
Build email list of listeners
Repurpose into LinkedIn articles
Go on a Podcast Tour
What it is: Concentrated burst of 10-20 appearances over 2-3 months
When to do it:
Book launch
Product/service launch
Major announcement or milestone
Building authority in new niche
How to execute:
Identify 20-30 target shows
Pitch all within 1 week
Batch record interviews
Coordinate release schedule
Amplify with consistent promotion
When to Consider Professional Help
Booking yourself on podcasts is absolutely doable DIY. But it's time-consuming.
Signs you should outsource:
You need 10+ bookings per month
Your time is worth more than outreach/coordination
You want only top-tier shows (requires relationships)
You're doing a major campaign (book tour)
You're not getting response rates above 20%
Options for help:
PR Agencies: Full-service, expensive ($3,000-10,000/month)
Podcast Booking Agencies: Specialize in podcast placement ($700-2,500/month)
Virtual Assistants: Research and coordination ($400-800/month)
Common Mistakes That Kill Your Chances
Mistake 1: Generic Mass Pitching
Sending the same email to 50 shows is obvious and ineffective.
Mistake 2: Making It About You
"I want to promote my book" = immediate rejection. Lead with value for their audience.
Mistake 3: Pitching the Wrong Shows
You speak about B2B marketing but pitch to a true crime podcast. Do your research.
Mistake 4: No Follow-Up
One email and giving up leaves 60% of potential bookings on the table.
Mistake 5: Being Unprepared
Showing up with no research, poor audio, or vague answers wastes everyone's time.
Mistake 6: Not Promoting After
If you don't share the episode, hosts won't invite you back or refer you.
Mistake 7: Pitching Too High Too Soon
Going straight for Joe Rogan when you have no podcast experience is unrealistic. Build up.
Your 30-Day Podcast Guesting Plan
Week 1: Research & Prep
Day 1-2: Define ideal podcast profile
Day 3-4: Find 20 target shows using methods above
Day 5-7: Research each show, find contact info
Week 2: Outreach
Day 8-10: Write 10 personalized pitches
Day 11-12: Send first batch of 10 pitches
Day 13-14: Write and send 10 more pitches
Week 3: Follow-Up & More Outreach
Day 15-17: Follow up with non-responders from Week 2
Day 18-21: Send another 10 pitches to new shows
Week 4: Booking & Preparation
Day 22-24: Follow up with Week 3 pitches
Day 25-28: Confirm bookings, schedule interviews, prepare thoroughly
Day 29-30: Record first interviews
Expected Results After 30 Days:
30 pitches sent
6-10 responses
2-4 confirmed bookings
Momentum building for future bookings
Final Thoughts
Getting booked on podcasts isn't about luck or connections (though those help). It's about strategy, personalization, and providing genuine value.
The podcasters who get booked consistently:
Target the right shows strategically
Write personalized pitches that demonstrate research
Follow up persistently but respectfully
Show up prepared and deliver value
Promote appearances and build relationships
You don't need to be famous. You just need expertise worth sharing and the willingness to do the outreach work.
Start with 10 pitches this week. You'll be surprised how many hosts say yes when you show you've actually listened to their show and have something valuable to contribute.