Table of Contents
If you're an author wanting to share your work on podcasts, you might feel overwhelmed about where to start or how to stand out. The good news is, with a clear plan, you can turn podcast pitching into a straightforward process. Keep reading, and I’ll give you simple tips to find the right shows, craft a personal pitch, and make the most of your appearances—so your words reach more readers than ever before.
Key Takeaways
- Target podcasts that match your book’s genre and have recent activity. Personalize your pitch by mentioning specific episodes or hosts’ views to stand out. Keep your message short, clear, and focused on why you’re a good fit. Attach a brief bio and book summary, and include links to your work. Practice talking about your book naturally to sound genuine. Promote your appearances on social media and thank hosts afterward to build relationships and grow your audience over time.
< p>With over 4.52 million podcasts worldwide in 2025, standing out as an author can feel like finding a needle in a haystack. But the good news is, podcast listeners are highly engaged, with about 584 million tuned in weekly and spending roughly 7 hours listening each week. That’s a goldmine for authors looking to boost visibility and connect with niche audiences.
< p>So, how do you get your name on a podcast guest list? The key is to pitch effectively. First, target podcasts that match your book’s genre or themes. For example, if you’ve written a self-help book, look for shows in the Self-Improvement or Society & Culture categories. Focus on shows with active audiences—aim for podcasts that have released new episodes in the last 90 days. This shows the host is still producing content and more likely to accept guest invitations.
< p>Before reaching out, do some homework. Listen to a few episodes to understand the show's tone, typical questions, and what kind of guests they feature. This will help you craft a pitch that resonates. For instance, if the host consistently discusses personal growth, highlight how your book offers unique insights in that area. Also, check the show's website or social media for submission guidelines and specific contact info.
< p>When writing your pitch, clarity is your friend. Start with a brief intro about who you are, mentioning your author credentials and any relevant expertise. Be sure to highlight your book’s key selling points—what makes it compelling and why its story or message would captivate their audience. Keep your message concise—think of it as an elevator pitch that sparks curiosity without overwhelming.
< p>Avoid lengthy emails. Instead, focus on a few impactful sentences. For example: “As the author of , I specialize in , which I believe aligns well with your show’s focus on . I’d love to share insights on , and I can offer engaging stories that resonate with your listeners.”
< p>Your pitch should include a clear ask—whether you’re seeking a 30-minute interview or a guest appearance. Attach your author bio, a short summary of your book, and perhaps one or two example questions you might discuss. Including links to your website or social profiles helps hosts verify your credentials and makes it easier for them to say yes.
< p>Personalization goes a long way. Mention a recent episode you enjoyed or a particular host’s perspective that resonated with you. This shows you’ve done your homework and genuinely want to be part of their community. People respond better to pitches that feel tailored rather than generic mass messages.
< p>Once your pitch is out, prepare to be a standout guest. Practice talking about your book naturally, and be ready to answer common questions about your writing process, inspiration, or key messages. Consider recording yourself or doing mock interviews to boost your confidence and improve clarity. Remember, the goal is to sound engaging and authentic — listeners can tell when a guest is truly passionate about their work.
< p>To maximize your outreach efforts, leverage your appearances on podcasts by promoting them on your social media and website. Sharing clips or quotes from your interview can attract new readers and even inspire potential hosts to invite you on their shows. Keep building relationships with hosts; a genuine thank you note after your appearance can pave the way for future collaborations.
< p>By following these steps—finding the right podcasts, researching each show, crafting a personalized pitch, and preparing as a guest—you position yourself for success. Remember, the goal isn’t just to be on a podcast, but to reach the audiences that matter for your book’s growth and your long-term platform. Starting today, take action: explore popular podcasts, refine your pitch, and get ready to tell your story on the mic.
16. Avoid Common Mistakes When Pitching Podcasts
Many authors make simple errors that can cost them a chance to appear on great shows.
For example, sending generic pitches that show no real knowledge of the show signals a lack of effort.
Another common mistake is overloading your pitch with unnecessary details—keep it simple and targeted.
Failing to follow the show's submission guidelines or ignoring unwritten rules can quickly lead to rejection.
Always proofread your email or message to avoid typos and grammatical errors—tiny details matter.
Remember, hosts receive dozens of pitches, so standing out by being clear and respectful earns you points.
17. Customize Every Pitch — No Generic Messages
Personalization shows you took the time to understand the show's content and audience.
Reference a recent episode or highlight something specific about the host's perspective.
This might mean mentioning a particular topic they've covered or a guest they had on recently.
You could say, "I noticed your episode on mental health, and as an author specializing in self-help, I believe I could add value."
Custom pitches demonstrate genuine interest and increase your chances of getting a yes.
Even small details like mentioning the show's name or referring to the host's social media can make a difference.
Remember, hosts appreciate new guests who truly understand their audience’s interests.
18. Pitch Shows That Fit Your Book and Audience
Targeting the right podcasts ensures your messaging hits the right listeners.
Focus on shows within your genre—Self-Help, Business, True Crime, etc.—where your book naturally fits.
Look at the show’s recent episodes and guest list to see if your background and topics align.
Use podcast directories or platforms like Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or Podchaser to filter shows by genre and popularity.
Remember, the goal isn't just to get on any show but to reach listeners genuinely interested in your subject.
This targeted approach saves time and results in higher engagement and book sales.
For instance, if you're an author of a mystery novel, pitching to a crime or detective series podcast makes much more sense than a tech show.
19. Don’t Attach Full Press Materials in Your Outreach
While it's tempting to send your complete press kit, most hosts prefer quick, digestible info.
Attach a short bio, a one-paragraph book summary, and links to your work instead of tons of files.
Large attachments can slow down your email and may even land in spam folders.
Provide this information in the body of your pitch and offer to send more if asked.
Once you're booked, you can then forward any additional materials the host might need.
This approach shows you're professional but also respectful of their time.
Remember, hosts appreciate efficiency — less clutter, more clarity.
20. Use Your Podcast Interviews to Reach Long-Term Goals
Getting booked on podcasts is just the first step—use each appearance to build your author platform.
Share the episodes across your social media channels, tag the hosts, and encourage your followers to listen.
This not only introduces you to new audiences but also shows hosts that you’re committed to promotion.
Consider creating a dedicated page on your website with links and clips from your interviews.
Use these appearances to grow your email list by offering exclusive content or freebies related to your book.
This way, each podcast becomes part of your larger marketing plan, helping you reach future publishing or sales goals.
Remember, consistency and follow-up lead to long-term visibility, not just a one-time moment in the spotlight.
21. Take Action: Start Researching, Pitching, and Preparing Today
The most critical step is to begin now—procrastination kills opportunities.
Set aside dedicated time each week for finding new podcasts and crafting personalized pitches.
Use a spreadsheet to track shows you've contacted, responses received, and follow-up dates.
Practice your interview responses and get comfortable talking about your book naturally.
Start sharing your interview clips on social media to build buzz.
The sooner you start, the faster you'll build momentum and connect with audiences eager for your story.
Remember, with millions of podcasts out there—and over 487,200 new shows launched in just the past 90 days—your perfect match is waiting.
So, don’t wait for the "perfect time"—the best moment to act was yesterday; the next best is today.
FAQs
Research shows which shows align with your book's theme and audience. Look at their topics, guest history, and audience engagement to identify podcasts that will be receptive and relevant for your pitch.
Keep your pitch concise and personal. Highlight your book's unique angles, your background, and why you'll add value to their show. Make it clear why you're a good fit for their audience.
Practice clear speaking and anticipate common questions about your book. Prepare key points and stories to share, and familiarize yourself with the show's format to engage effectively during the interview.
Share clips or highlights from the episode on social media, include links in your newsletters, and mention your appearances on your website to reach more readers and grow your platform.
