How to Be a Great Podcast Guest (Even If You’ve Never Done It Before)
Have you ever thought about being a guest on a podcast as a way to share your message and grow your audience? It might feel a little intimidating, especially if you’ve never done it before, but podcast guesting is a powerful way to step outside your comfort zone and reach more people with the message God has placed on your heart.
As a podcast host myself, I want to share some practical tips to help you get started and feel confident in the process.
1. Find the Right Podcast
Start by looking for podcasts that share a similar audience and message. For example, if you write for new moms who want to grow in their walk with God, search for podcasts that speak to that same group. The exact message doesn’t have to match perfectly, but it should be complementary.
When I was writing a lot about spiritual formation and spiritual disciplines, I collaborated with another writer who focused on cultivating a meaningful devotional life. Our messages weren’t identical, but they resonated with the same kind of listener.
2. Do Your Research
Before reaching out, listen to at least one or two episodes of the podcast. Get a feel for the tone, style, and format. Do they host guests regularly? Does their style feel like a good fit for you?
Most podcasts also have a website with more information, including how to contact the host.
3. Know Your Angle
Don’t just send a generic message asking to be a guest. Take the time to share exactly what you can offer their listeners. Podcast interviews are a form of collaboration—you’re helping the host serve their audience, and in return, you get to share your message.
In your pitch, explain clearly how your topic will benefit their listeners and why you're a good fit.
4. Send the Pitch
Once you’ve done your homework, send a brief, thoughtful email to the host. Introduce yourself, mention something specific you appreciated about their podcast, and describe the topic you'd like to talk about and how it will serve their audience.
If you’ve been on other podcasts, include a link or two. If not, that’s okay—just leave that part out. And don’t be afraid to ask! The worst they can say is no. Some of the people I’ve invited to be on my podcast surprised me by saying yes!
5. Be Open to a Pre-Interview
If you’re new to podcasting, don’t be discouraged if the host wants a quick conversation before scheduling the interview. Podcasts are an audio medium, so it’s important that guests can communicate clearly and stay on topic. A brief Zoom or Voxer chat helps the host feel confident that it will be a smooth and valuable conversation for their listeners.
6. Prepare for the Interview
Every host does things a little differently, but often they’ll send you a list of potential questions in advance—or ask you to provide some. For my podcast, I create the initial list and invite the guest to adjust or add questions so we’re both prepared. The actual conversation is always flexible, but a clear roadmap helps it stay focused and engaging.
7. Share a Resource
If you have a lead magnet or free download that fits with the topic, ask the host ahead of time if they’d be willing to include it in the show notes. Most hosts will also give you a chance at the end of the interview to share where listeners can find you online. Even better, consider creating a special resource just for the podcast audience—it’s a great way to serve them and grow your email list.
I hope these tips help you take that next step toward being a podcast guest. It’s a fantastic way to expand your reach and encourage others through your story and message.
If you have a topic you think would benefit my listeners, I’d love to hear from you! You can pitch your idea using the form on my website: amylynnsimon.com/purposeful-pen-podcast (the form is about halfway down the page).